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September 2021 Mustard Seed - Announcements

9/8/2021

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Christian Education
The Christian Education team is still in discussion over the direction of Sunday School this year.  Chair, Melissa Prunkel will be in touch with the teachers and students (and their families) to check out interest and will come to a mutually agreed upon time for school aged children’s Christian education classes. 
    For more information see, Melissa Prunkel, Education Leader
 
Adult Forum
Bible Study for adults will resume on Sunday, September 19, 2021 at 9:00 a.m.  They will start the year with 1 and 2 Timothy. They will continue on Zoom for the foreseeable future.  Please consider joining! 
 All are welcome!  
For more information see, Rich Hollenbach, Leader
 
The Monday Night Bible Study will return at 7pm on Monday, September 13, 2021.  They will be deciding on what will be studied at that time.  They will continue to meet via zoom.
Contact Debbie Hollenbach for more information.


Fresh Flowers Return!
Beginning on Sunday, September 5, 2021 we will be having fresh flowers on the altar again!  Hatfield Flowers and Gifts ((215) 822-1530)will again be providing two lovely flower arrangements to adorn our sanctuary.

You can sign up to sponsor flowers, bulletins or a food basket.  The flowers are still $35 (one thing that has not gone up in price since Covid), the bulletins are $10 and the food basket is $25.

You can dedicate any one of these things for someone special, for a birthday or in memory of a loved one. You may take the flowers home or they will be given to an ill or homebound member.  The $10 for the bulletins is to help cover the cost of making the bulletins and the $25 for the food basket is money donated to “Manna on Main Street.”  

To sign up for a particular Sunday either sign up on the chart on the Foyer bulletin board or call Janet in the church office (215) 368-0240.

Social Ministry
The social ministry team feels since more people are returning to worshipping in the sanctuary, it is time to schedule monthly social ministry projects.  Therefore, for the balance of this year, we will support Manna with needed items.   
 
For the month of September, we are requesting donations of afterschool snacks, like fruit cups, puddings, jellos, packs of peanut butter crackers, pack of cheese crackers, etc.  Bring your donations to church weekly, put them in the purple “barney bin” (in the coat closet), and at the end of the month they will be delivered to Manna. 

American Red Cross Blood Drive 
Classrooms E/F 
Thursday, September 2, 2021
and 
Friday, September 3, 2021 
8:00am to 3:00pm at Jefferson Lansdale Hospital
 
To make an appointment, please click on the link below 
https://www.redcrossblood.org/give.html/drive-results?zipSponsor=Abington%20Lansdale%20Hospital
 
or go to www.redcrossblood.org
Enter Sponsor Code “Abington Lansdale Hospital”



Support for Haiti
 “I call upon you, for you will answer me, O God; incline your ear to me, hear my words”(Psalm 17:6).
A devastating 7.2 magnitude earthquake struck southwest Haiti on Saturday morning. Over 1,400 people were killed, and that number is expected to increase as search-and-rescue efforts continue. Blocked roads are delaying the delivery of vital supplies to hospitals, which are overwhelmed with more than 6,900 injured people. At least 26,000 homes were damaged or destroyed, but the full extent of damage is still unknown. Haiti is also suffering through a political crisis and was hit by Tropical Storm Grace on Monday night, which caused severe flooding in communities already damaged by the earthquake.

For over two decades, the ELCA has maintained a presence in southern Haiti through support for agricultural and sustainable development work. To continue our engagement with those communities, Lutheran Disaster Response is collaborating with partner organizations in the communities to meet relief needs, including food, water, medical supplies and temporary shelter. In the future, other areas of support will include psychosocial care, water and sanitation, and creating sustainable livelihoods through agriculture and livestock. We also stand with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Haiti as it assesses damage and impacts on churches and church life.  Together, as church, we can be there for our neighbors in Haiti.

Your gifts will support earthquake survivors in Haiti. Gifts to “Haiti Crisis” will be used in full (100%) to assist those affected by the earthquake.

Ways to Give:  Checks or money orders can be sent to:
Lutheran Disaster Response
P.O. Box 1809
Merrifield, VA 22116-8009
Write "Haiti Crisis" on your check memo line.

Give by phone at 800-638-3522 or online

E-Giving Through Vanco
We continue to encourage online giving through Vanco.
* Electronic gifts are fast and secure
* Recurring donations can be scheduled and managed
* Giving can be with your credit card or banking information
Electronic giving has really benefitted our church during this time when we haven’t been able to worship in person. 
Thank you to everyone who has signed up for online giving and also for those of you who continue to mail in your pledges!
 
If you would like to give electronically, visit our website (faithmontgomeryville.org) and click on the E-givingbutton.

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September 2021 Mustard Seed - Council Notes

9/8/2021

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Council Notes | August 4, 2021
 
Council was called to order by President Rich Hollenbach.  Rich Hollenbach led devotions on a Church Health-Loving Relationships.  Minutes of the June regular council meeting and the July Special meeting were approved as written.
 
Treasurer’s Report: Denise Bailey pointed out that Net Revenue had an increase of $5,600.00 bringing total net revenue year to date to around $49,000.00 which is a positive. All members voted in favor of approving the treasurer’s report.  With year-to-date income at $104,061.20 (74%) and operating expenses at $54,642.57 (367%) we have a $49,418.63 surplus. 
 
President’s Report:  Hybrid worship continues with in-person and Zoom, recording posted to our Facebook page. We have continued worship with Pastor Bruce Davis who will continue to supply through October.  We had Pastor Maggie Ainslie in June and in person in July. I (Rich) will coordinate with her for September.
​
The Furnace work has been completed and the balance will be paid over three months.
I had hoped that we could relax our masking policy but with the increase of COVID cases the CDC is back to recommending masking while indoors so we will discuss in New Business.
 
MINISTRY TEAM REPORTS: 
 
Call Committee:Gail Achilles reported that our Call Team has been interviewing a candidate for Pastor since the end of April and as of August 4 informed the candidate that we all voted to move this candidate forward to our Church Council.  More details will follow.
 
Christian Education: Melissa Prunkel reported that she will be contacting parents of Sunday school students to ask whether they are interested in having Sunday School during the worship service (following all covid protocols) or via zoom.  Since Sunday school rooms are not officially open yet Pastor Penman suggested a third option would be to have Sunday School students gather at a park for instance once a month for fellowship, weather permitting of course.  Missy stated that she only heard from the Monday Night bible study participants about doing some sort of retreat.  Missy is still exploring any interest and retreat ideas. Monday night bible study and Adult Forum will start up again in September.
 
  • Vice President Adam Feldman read the finance team meeting report and added that the Fire Department is planning to do yearly inspections. Adam also brought up the bill for the repair of the Sanctuary air conditioners for $381.45.  Rich said that he will put forth this bill through Special Funds.
 
Evangelism: In Dale Foster’s absence, Gail reported that Faith Lutheran Church is sponsoring a new Compassion International Child named Joao.  Joao replaced Vladimir who is no longer in the Compassion International Program. The Prunkel Family kindly volunteered to be Joao’s pen pal.  So as of this date, our Church sponsors two children:  Joao from Brazil and Bunga from Indonesia (Gail has been Bunga’s pen pal since 2017).  Children always appreciate receiving mail so if you ever feel called to write to the children we sponsor, please notify the church office and you will be given the data you need.
 
Fundraising:  Memory Keepers Scrapbooking in Fellowship Hall - 10/22-23 Rich made the motion to tentatively approve now as far as taking reservations for this event and holding the dates.  Final approval and covid restrictions to follow will be discussed at September’s council meeting.   All council members voted in favor to approve the motion.
 
Hospitality/Fellowship: Anne Hutnyk reported that she has been cleaning the kitchen and was grateful to Adam for the beautiful job he did in painting the kitchen closet.
 
Property Team: Vince Hill reported that the fire inspection approved all work that was done.  Vince also stated that he took steps to improve safety and security for our church and local community.  He explained that Adam temporarily donated a camera which was set up to see the back of the church parking lot and property.  Vince said that there were a few instances caught on camera which Adam and he were able to intervene and stop unsafe happenings on church property. Vince would like to talk about procuring two cameras (estimated at $160.00 each) at our September council meeting.   Adam informed us that we have signage to inform public “Property is under 24-hour surveillance.”  Vince also informed us that Property has solar panels credits that can be sold up to $37.00 each and will wait a few weeks to decide if the time is right to sell them.  Rich asked about how far our property goes into the woods behind the parking lot where the pond is located.  Vince replied that we are about ten feet past where the water starts.
 
Social Ministry: Social Ministry is going to be asking for donations of tomato sauce and diced and whole tomatoes for Manna during the month of August.  Our goal is 100 cans.
We are looking to have a different donation request each month for September, October and November.
December will be Angel Tree and Gemma (formerly Martin Luther School.)
We are planning on having a meeting in the Fall to plan 2022.
 
Special Funds: Emergency Exit Signs: $710.93 – Approved and paid.  Sanctuary A/C repair request: $381.45 will be handled through Special Funds approval process.
 
Stewardship: Jack Walls reported that VANCO did a refresh on the app and he will get together something to submit in the Fall about e-giving.   Also, Jack will be looking at congregational membership to try and reengage members to come back to the church.  Jack is optimistic that this could happen with the installation of a new Pastor.
 
Worship & Music:Pastor Bruce Davis has been scheduled through the end of October.  Will be contacting Pastor Maggie Ainslie for possible September & October 3rdSundays.  
Music: The music selection has been working out, but we need a lead singer (which Laura Cooper can do if playing piano but not if playing organ and Rich can do if in attendance) to keep the congregation on track with the music. 
Missy brought up whether we can begin to have real flowers on altar. Rich will check on costs and follow up on this decision. Looking to start again in September.
 
 
OLD BUSINESS: 
  • Update on constitution.We have the draft but waiting until we call a new pastor to continue the work.
  • Audit Completed: report submitted on June 17, 2021
 
 
NEW BUSINESS
  • Startup Korean Congregation Request - 
  • Rich and Janet will have a follow up meeting with Pastor Park to get more clarification on their specific requests.  Need to also look at how we can work together to further the kingdom in our community. 
  • Continuing COVID Restrictions:
    1. Worship: will continue via zoom and in person.  If in person, 
      1. Keep masks – especially for kids
      2. Singing will be permitted with masks
      3. No choir singing
      4. Still have sanitizers
      5. No reservations needed, no temp checks
      6. Still no indoor fellowship after church
    2. Meetings:   Rich made the motion that meetings can be in person in the building now but will also be on zoom.  In person must adhere to the following guidelines and process meeting request forms through Adam.  Jack seconded the motion, and all council members voted in favor to approve the motion.  
      1. Social distancing
      2. Masks worn
      3. No food or drink

Next Meeting:  Wednesday, September 1, 2021, at 7pm.  
Will be a hybrid meeting.  Devotions will be led by Sharon.
 
Coffee with Council: This Sunday, August 8, 2021, after worship.
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September 2021 Mustard Seed - Note from Council Secretary

9/8/2021

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Hello Church Family,
I am Gail Achilles connecting through the Word of God.  Hope your summer was as refreshing and wonderful as mine.  Gathering with family and friends indoors and outdoors works wonders for the soul.  As we enter September for me it always seems like a new beginning.  A fresh start.  A renewal of sorts.  I can remember on Pentecost Sunday 7 years ago when my husband Ernie and I became members of Faith Lutheran Church.  We were there to worship our Lord and to have fellowship with the congregation and to have our souls fed by not only the pastor but all the believers we met at Faith through your words and actions led by Christ alone. 
 
Then that first September rolled around and inside the Sunday bulletin was an insert for Ernie and I to fill out listing our gifts so that we might do God’s work as his disciples and not just show up once a week and be receivers, but maybe the note was saying become doers.  I looked at Ernie, and asked, “What special gifts do we have that would benefit Faith Church and its congregation?  We are not near the level of Christian/Lutheran knowledge found in the people of Faith.”
 
Aha!  I soon found out from attending service, joining bible study classes, and from my faithful friends at Faith that we are all God’s children and when we are baptized we receive the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit which we learn from the apostle Peter from the book of Acts 2:38:  Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.” 

WHAT ARE THE SEVEN GIFTS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT?  
wisdom ● understanding ● counsel ● fortitude ● knowledge ● piety ● fear of God       
   
These gifts were spoken in the Old Testament in Isaiah 11:1-3:
1 A shoot will come up from the stump of Jesse; from his roots a Branch will bear fruit.  2 The Spirit of the LORD will rest on him—the Spirit of wisdom and of understanding, the Spirit of counsel and of might, the Spirit of the knowledge and fear of the LORD—3 and he will delight in the fear of the Lord.  He will not judge by what he sees with his eyes, or decide by what he hears with his ears.” (The phrase, “Seven Gifts of the Holy Spirit,” is a title of the devotional application of Isaiah. (https://www.biblestudytools.com).
 
Another aha moment:  Ernie and I do not have to be highly educated theologians, for we are endowed by our Creator with the gifts of the Holy Spirit like all Christ followers.  So we do have gifts that we can share as God’s disciples and be pleasing to our Lord. We all do!
 
We learn from the book of 1 Corinthians 12-14 12 Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ. 13 For we were all baptized by[c] one Spirit so as to form one body—whether Jews or Gentiles, slave or free—and we were all given the one Spirit to drink. 14 Even so the body is not made up of one part but of many.” 
 
Aha moment again.  We are all God’s Children in His Church as we believe in Christ and are baptized by His Spirit, even with all our diversity we can each bring our own uniqueness to strengthen His Church.  So when we are called to offer up our gifts, we all have something unique to give.  Many know this, many are aware of the spirit that is within them and use it for the good of others already.  Listen what Romans 8:14 tells us:  14 For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God.
 
Ernie and I began to see where we could be doers and not just receivers and, in so doing draw a closer relationship with the Lord by fulfilling His will and following His plans for us.  
 
Hear His Words in Jeremiah 1:5: Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you; I appointed you a prophet to the nations.  
 
All believers possess these wonderful gifts God bestowed on us through His Holy Spirit.  We just have to develop them by practicing them on a daily basis and follow in His footsteps as we spread His Good Word through our word and actions.  We learn in Galatians 5:22-23 as we grow with Christ we enjoy the fruits of His Spirit: 22…love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,23gentleness, self-control, against such things there is no law.  Please take note how generous our Lord is to us! 
 
In Jesus, our Savior’s Holy Name, I close with a Psalm of David Chapter 62 verses 1, 6, 7:   1. My soul finds rest in God alone; my salvation comes from Him…6. He alone is my rock and my salvation; He is my fortress, I will not be shaken…7. My salvation and my honor depend on God; he is my mighty rock, my refuge.  Our God is Good!  Thank you Lord for empowering us with your Holy Spirit.  Amen.  
--Gail Achilles, Call Committee Chair and Council Secretary
(So when you see those sign-up sheets in the bulletin, or in the pews, or on the tables in the foyer, do not sell yourself short.  We all have God given gifts to share!  Just imagine what we can do with His spiritual gifts and fruits not only for our Church, but for all of God’s creation).
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August 2021 Mustard Seed - Announcements

8/4/2021

 
Reopening the Church
The new guidelines for in-person worship will be as follows:
 
  • Masks will continue to be worn while in the church for worship but most other restrictions have been lifted.  
  • Singing will now be permitted.
  • Temperature checks will no longer be taken.
  • No reservations are needed to attend worship.  
  • All restrooms and water fountains will be open.  
  • We will still provide the sanitizers throughout the building.  
  • We still won't have coffee hours after church but will allow folks to socialize outside the building after the service.
 
Council will continue to monitor and will update the restrictions as deemed necessary.

“Lord, when did we see you…”
The social ministry team feels since more people are returning to worshipping in the sanctuary, it is time to schedule monthly social ministry projects.  Therefore, for the balance of this year, we will support Manna with needed items.   
 
For the month of August, we are requesting donations of cans of tomato sauce, cans of diced tomatoes or cans of whole tomatoes.  Our goal is 100 cans!  You know the drill - watch the local food ads for sales on these items and bring your donations to church weekly, put them in the “barney bin”, and at the end of the month they will be delivered to Manna. 
 
Galatians 5:13 - For you were called to freedom, brothers and sisters; only do not use your freedom as an opportunity to indulge your flesh, but through love serve one another.

Are you interested in a retreat with your brothers and sisters in Christ?  
We are trying to find out if there is interest in a time of renewal and reconnection in the form of a church retreat. If you are interested, would it be a couple’s retreat, a men’s retreat, a women’s retreat or an all church retreat, or something else?  If you are interested or have any suggestions please email or call the church at faithmont@verizon.net or 215-368-0240 or reach out to Melissa Prunkel or Janet Hill

Faith’s Transportation Initiative
Even though we are not transporting anyone to appointments at this time, Dale Foster is still bringing Wawa food to those in our congregation and our community who are in need of a little extra food.  (Through the Food Donation Connection program we receive food from Wawa every Tuesday and Thursday.  It is mostly Sizzlies, bagels, pastries etc. that are left over from the day before and stored in Wawa’s freezer.)  Thank you, Foster family, for making sure those in our church family and our community are taken care of!

Please continue to fill the HELPSY bin!  
When cleaning out your closets please fill the blue Helpsy bin at the end of our parking lot with used clothing and shoes (IN ANY CONDITION.)  Faith receives $600 annually from this community outreach.

Technology Volunteers
We are looking for a few volunteers who are willing to learn and help with the technology behind our virtual and in-person worship services. Each week we host our Zoom meeting for worship as well as running the video cameras and sound system in the sanctuary.  Over the past year we have refined this process and it’s running very smoothly now. But it’s being managed by the same few people every week and we are looking to train others to share in this responsibility.  We have engaged a professional to help review our processes and to provide training and want to have other volunteers participate.  Please contact Rich Hollenbach if you are interested

Redner's Receipts
If you shop at Redner’s, please save your receipts.  Anna Friedrich turns them in and the church receives a monetary donation from Redner’s.  All you need to do is either bring your receipts to church or call Janet at the church office and someone will come and pick them up.  Thank you to those who bring in their receipts and to Anna who does the paperwork to receive this donation!

August 2021 Mustard Seed - Council Notes

8/4/2021

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Minutes of a Special Faith Evangelical Lutheran Church Council Meeting
July 11, 2021
 
Call to Order:  by President Rich Hollenbach at 10:18 am
Present:  Gail Achilles, Adam Feldman, Dale Foster, Vince Hill, Rich Hollenbach, Sharon Hood, Melissa Prunkel.  Absent: Anne Hutnyk and Jack Walls
  1. President Rich Hollenbach called a special council meeting to approve the additional $1850.00 payable to IT Landes for Duct work repairs/revisions for second floor classrooms discovered while installing the new furnaces.  Rich also explained that this brings the total remaining balance to $22,272.25 for furnace work payable to IT Landes over a 3-month period interest free ($7,424.08 per month).  Of the $22,272.25 balance: $9,545.76 will come from the Heating/AC Fund and the remaining $12,726.49 will be taken from the Thrivent Moderately Conservative Account.  A motion to approve was made by Rich Hollenbach, Melissa Prunkel seconded the motion, and all members present and Jack Walls in absentia voted in favor to approve the additional cost and the method of payment.  
 
  1. Property Team:  Vince informed us of the results of the Fire Inspection of the Church Building performed on July 1, 2021.  Adam Feldman was able to take care of the power strip issues and put back ceiling tiles and insulation (from the furnace work). However, we have to replace all the exit signs and emergency lights for a cost of $710.93.  Vince said that $600.00 could come from the Property budget however President Hollenbach noted that he will coordinate with the Special Funds team to process the requested amount of these repairs. Vince also said that all work will be completed by Thursday, July 15, 2021, for the follow up inspection.  
Meeting was adjourned by President Rich Hollenbach at 10:27 am.
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August 2020 Mustard Seed - Note from Council Secretary

8/4/2021

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Hello Church Family, Hope you are enjoying a lovely summer!
​
Inspired by The Word of God, Psalm 147:4 - "He determines the number of the stars and calls them each by name." (NIV)

Creator of the Stars
(by Gail Achilles, 3-14-21)
 
Oh Creator of the Stars, only you know their number.
Only you know how many shine bright.
Only you know how many have a faint glimmer ready to
Grow brighter or get dimmer.
Only you know the ones who will fall into darkness and fade completely.
 
You love the stars you created; your love pushes them to remain bright eternally.  Those that respond to your gracious love, illuminate the night sky, and the stars that turn away from your glorious grace and mercy will burn up into volcanic ash—Poof! Into nothingness—no more. 
 
You give each star a chance Lord, there is hope in your Word.  Your heart smiles when a fading star turns around and grows brighter and brighter and brighter as it nears Your Heavenly Light.  You want what’s best for all and want the numbers to grow, never decrease, never to cease. 
 
Stars are like your children who sometime take your gift of free will and fall but you are there to catch them if they have any heart left at all.  Praise you Lord for your great love, and giving us the chance to turn from the devil and turn to the dove and get a glimpse of your face at last.
 
Oh Creator of the Stars, only you know their number.
You know how many shine bright and you know how many have a faint glimmer --
Ready to grow brighter or get dimmer.
Only you know the ones who will fall into darkness and fade completely.
 
Lord, as your child, all I can say is I will do my best to shine your light until my dying day!
 
Lord, I cannot do it alone, but with you by my side, the numbers will grow and at world’s end and Heaven’s start glowing stars will cover the sky and shine so bright; we will then be one brilliant light with You never to part! 
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July 2021 Mustard Seed - Announcements

7/2/2021

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Church Re-Opening
At the June 2, 2021 Church Council meeting it was decided that we can ease some of the COVID restrictions at worship services.
 
The new guidelines will be as follows and went into effect on Sunday, June 6, 2021:
 
  • Masks will continue to be worn while in the church for worship but most other restrictions have been lifted.  
  • Singing will now be permitted.
  • Temperature checks will no longer be taken.
  • No reservations are needed to attend worship.  
  • All restrooms and water fountains will be open.  
  • We will still provide the sanitizers throughout the building.  
  • We still won't have coffee hours after church but will allow folks to socialize outside the building after the service.
 
Council will continue to monitor and will update the restrictions as deemed necessary.

Movie Nights
On July 9thand July 23rd,Faith will be hosting a movie night in our church parking lot.  We will be watching “Peter Rabbit” on Friday, July 9thand “Jonah: A Veggie Tales Movie” on Friday, July 23rd. You can either stay in your cars for a drive in or bring a lawn chair and sit outside. Everyone is welcome!  Plan on coming around 8:30 p.m. for Summertime fun!

Church Picnic Report
On Sunday, June 6, 2021 right after our 9:30am worship service we had our Annual Faith Family Picnic at Spring Valley Park.  We had 34 people attend!  It was beautiful day and adults and children were so happy to be able to join together again for food, fellowship and fun.  Thank you to Thrivent for providing the funds and to Vince and Janet Hill and Adam Feldman for putting it together.

Technology Volunteers
We are looking for a few volunteers who are willing to learn and help with the technology behind our virtual and in-person worship services. Each week we host our Zoom meeting for worship as well as running the video cameras and sound system in the sanctuary.  Over the past year we have refined this process and it’s running very smoothly now. But it’s being managed by the same few people every week and we are looking to train others to share in this responsibility.  We have engaged a professional to help review our processes and to provide training and want to have other volunteers participate.  Please contact Rich Hollenbach if you are interested.

HELPSY Bins
Please continue to fill the HELPSY bin!  When cleaning out your closets please fill the blue Helpsy bin at the end of our parking lot with used clothing and shoes (IN ANY CONDITION.) Faith receives $600 annually from this community outreach. 



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July 2021 Mustard Seed - Council Notes

7/2/2021

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Council Notes June 2, 2021
 
Council was called to order by President Rich Hollenbach.  Vince Hill led devotions on a healthy church. Minutes of the May 5thregular council meeting were approved as written.
 
Treasurer’s Report: After a few questions and concerns were addressed, all members approved the treasurer’s report.  With year-to-date income at $83,942.64(80%) and operating expenses at $40,427.71 (27%) we have a $43,514.93 surplus. (This surplus is only because we carried over last year’s surplus of $35,516.76.)
 
President’s Report:  
Rich Hollenbach reported hybrid worship continues with in-person and zoom and recording posted to our Facebook page.  We had our first full month without a Designated/Bridge Pastor, with Pastor Frank Sayford presiding.  In June we have Pastor Bruce Davis and Pastor Maggie Ainslie.  Rich is currently working on July.  (On behalf of the entire congregation, thank you President Rich Hollenbach).  June Pastors will be having communion, and the prepackaged communion kits are working out. 
 
MINISTRY TEAM REPORTS: 
 
Call Committee:Gail Achilles reported that there isnothing definitive to report as yet.  Our Call Committee continues to pray that God will send the right Pastor to Faith Lutheran Church according to His will and His time, and we are hopeful that we can report some news sooner than later. Please keep those prayers coming for God to send us a Pastor.  
 
Christian Education: Melissa Prunkel is still working on a meeting to gather plans to initiate bible studies and possible VBS for our children during the summer months. 
The Faith family picnic is on Sunday, June 6, 2021.
 
Communications: Jack Walls suggested posting church picnic on Facebook page, and that we should show highlights of people in our congregation in action.  Jack noted as more and more things open up, hopefully people will physically come back to church.  Rich suggested showing more pictures of people in the church on our web site and Facebook page.
 
  • Adam Feldman stated that the PPP loan forgiveness application was approved by Univest and sent to the Small Business Administration. The Finance Team is having a meeting at the end of June.  The Audit is complete.  Thanks to all who worked on the Audit.
 
Fundraising:  Sharon Hood asked if anyone is inspired to put their fundraising talents to work to replace our current chair, Linda Kratz?
 
Property Team: Vince Hill reported that Fast Signs is still waiting on the permit for our front sign. 
The new furnaces are 98% completed.  Landis has to test them and should be completed this week.
 
  •  Sharon Hood reported that the team is sending out Father’s Day cards.  She will also get updates on all addresses.
 
  •  Jack asked Pastor Penman to share some ideas on bumping up e-giving.  Pastor Penman stated that he would send resources for inspiring generosity during Covid and post-Covid.  Pastor Penman during his services during the Offertory makes a point to tell the congregation how thankful they are for their monetary gifts to the church and tells their members about how this money helps with missions, ministries, and the church expenses.  He also reminds members of ways they can give and how important their generosity is to do God’s work.  Missy suggested that we bring back the offertory plates and go through the motions of going pew to pew and bringing up the offering to the altar.  Rich agreed and would begin steps to bring this back to our services.
 
Transportation: Dale Foster is going to send out an email to find out people’s availability to help with transportation needs.  Dale is also going to put a note in the church bulletin to remind people to contact the church office if they have any transportation needs.
 
Worship & Music: Rich will begin steps to add offering back into the worship services.  He is working on Supply Pastors for July.  
 
OLD BUSINESS: 
  • Constitution Update– No update.  
  • Audit Team Update– The updated Audit Team report will follow when completed.
 
NEW BUSINESS
  • The Korean congregation has donated $1000 for Faith’s missions.  A thank you note from Council and the congregation has been sent to Pastor Shin. 
  • Easing COVID Restrictions: We still need to wear masks in church, but congregational singing will be permitted; sanitizer will be available for use; reservations are no longer required to attend service; all restrooms and water fountains will be open; fellowship hall will remain closed, but fellowship is encouraged outdoors (Vince stated that he could put some chairs outside of church).  All members voted in favor of these changes.  Council President Rich Hollenbach documented this in an email and sent to Janet Hill, Faith Lutheran Church Administrative Assistant, for distribution to our congregation.   
 
Next Meeting:  Wednesday, August 4, 2021 at 7pm.
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July 2021 Mustard Seed - Note from Council Secretary

7/2/2021

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Hello Church Family! I am Gail Achilles, staying connected to you through the Word of God!  To all Americans, I hope you have a spectacular Fourth of July celebration! I know many of us commemorate this holiday with the love and respect we have for all citizens and our ancestors before us, and for the many freedoms we enjoy in this great country of ours.

Not only in America but the entire earthly kingdom has so much to praise God for including being the Creator of the whole world and its people, standing by the Israelites and bringing them to the promised land, for God’s rainbow of promises, sending Jesus to put death to our sins and rise again to give us a path to eternal life in heaven with God. 

The Good Lord stood by our forefathers who along with other true patriots fought to bring freedom for all America. That was a time when most Americans put God first in their daily lives.  Look: We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. (Preamble to the Declaration of Independence. 

Our Almighty God was, is, and always will be present in our lives. Many Christians today have faith in God and put Him first and praise Him.  There are, woefully, a growing number of people all over the world who are ignorant to His Truth, who just don’t care, and are not aware of God’s presence in their lives.
Sadly, we see in the media not only in America but all across the world that there are people who are lost in many ways, and they are trapped in Satan’s net.  They not only cause gloom and doom but take down innocent souls along with their evil and hate filled antics.

I want to remind the entire human race that Jesus died for His Church, His followers, and He is coming back for His Church, and His Church must be ready to fly into glorious eternal life with Christ!
It is prophesized in Revelations 16:15 that our Lord will come for us without warning like a thief in the night!
 
ARE YOU READY?  HAVE YOU COMMITTED YOUR LIFE TO JESUS? 
 
The apostle John tells us as revealed by Jesus in Revelations 21:1-8 of a new Heaven and a new Earth:
Then I saw “a new heaven and a new earth,” for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea. 2 I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. 3 And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. 4 ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death' or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”
5 He who was seated on the throne said, “I am making everything new!” Then he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.”
6 He said to me: “It is done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. To the thirsty I will give water without cost from the spring of the water of life. 7 Those who are victorious will inherit all this, and I will be their God and they will be my children. 8 But the cowardly, the unbelieving, the vile, the murderers, the sexually immoral, those who practice magic arts, the idolaters and all liars—they will be consigned to the fiery lake of burning sulfur. This is the second death.”

These are some pretty heavy Bible passages.  We need to realize God gave us the gift of free will out of dignity and respect for His Creation, but He also taught us right from wrong.  The Choice is Yours!
Please join me in prayer:  Almighty Father, We are grateful for Your Word and always keeping Your promises to us.  We pray for Your Son Jesus’ power to spread the seeds of your truth to the ends of the Earth, so that all personkind can be filled with the love and wisdom of your Holy Spirit and put You first in everything we do.  As we watch the earthly fireworks light up the sky this Fourth of July, let us remember that You Jesus are the light of the world. (In John 8:12 Jesus applies the title to himself while debating with the Jews and states: “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life. ... When I am in the world, I am the Light of the World.”)  We thank You for the freedoms we enjoy, and the peace and happiness with You Lord leading the way.  In Jesus’ name we are blessed.  Amen.

Thank You!  May God be with you!
​
       Gail Achilles, Call Committee Chair and Council Secretary
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June 2021 Mustard Seed - Announcements

5/29/2021

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Annual Church Family Picnic
Sunday, June 6th, 11am to 2 pm - Rain or Shine!
On Sunday, June 6th, right after the 9:30am worship service we are having the Annual Church Picnic at Spring Valley Park.  This year we will be providing allthe food.  We’ll have designated cooks barbecuing hot dogs and burgers.  We will also be providing all the sides and desserts funded by a Thrivent Action Team card.  All you need to bring is a lawn chair and a mask.  We only ask that you let us know if you are planning to attend so that we have enough food.  It will be nice to be outdoors and get back to fellowshipping with our brothers and sisters in Christ in a safe environment.  See you on the 6th!


Technology Volunteers
We are looking for a few volunteers who are willing to learn and help with the technology behind our virtual and in-person worship services. Each week we host our Zoom meeting for worship as well as running the video cameras and sound system in the sanctuary.  Over the past year we have refined this process and it’s running very smoothly now. But it’s being managed by the same few people every week and we are looking to train others to share in this responsibility.  We have engaged a professional to help review our processes and to provide training and want to have other volunteers participate.  Please contact Rich Hollenbach if you are interested.

Lectors & Worship Assistants Needed
We are in need of Lectors(reading the lesson and psalm) and Worship Assistants(reading the prayers and few other passages) for our Zoom and in-person worship.  

If you would like to volunteer or would like more information, please call Anna Friedrich.


Shepherding Ministry
A great big THANK YOU to our “shepherds” Chris Jones, Nancy Gansner, Anna Friedrich, Sharon Diggans and Beth Schoening for their kindness and nimble fingers in sending cards to our Faith Family Mothers for Mother’s Day!  We are blessed with wonderful mothers!
 --- Sharon Hood, Shepherding Leader 

Thank You Spring Work Day Helpers
Thank you to all those that came out on Saturday, April 17thfor the Spring Workday… Chris Jones, Anita Halpern, Jack, Grant and Wesley Walls, Dale, Bryan and LeighAnn Foster, Rich Hollenbach, Andy McCulley, Adam Feldman, Vincent Hill, and Paul, Genevieve and Vivian Prunkel.  Bushes were trimmed, sticks picked up, mulch was spread, weeds were pulled, some flowers were planted.  The church is looking so much better.  Thank you also to those that have signed up to take care of some of the flower beds around the church.


Audit Team
A great big THANK YOU to, first of all, those who volunteered to help...Patty Alderfer, Adria Parsons, Nancy Gansner, Wanda Flint and Marc Erskine.
THANK YOU to Patty, Adria and Nancy who were available to spend the 4 hours on a Saturday conducting the Audit for 2020.  Because of their willingness to help, the church did not have to hire anyone at an additional cost.
THANK YOU to Denise Bailey, Debbie Hollenbach, Adam Feldman, and Janet Hill for assisting with the review of our Audit.  

Everything worked out well.
--- Sharon Hood, Audit Team Leader

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