St. Paul’s Evangelical-Lutheran Church
109 S. Elm, Kewanee, Illinois 61443
Newsletter
Volume 29 May 2018 No. 5
The Coming of the Holy Spirit
In the Gospel according to St. John, Jesus refers to the sending of the Holy Spirit and the sending of his Apostles at the same time, indicating that these are not two but one sending. The sending of the Spirit is the sending of the Apostles. He said that he would send the Spirit from the Father to “testify” of him, and then immediately he says, “Ye also shall bear witness, because ye have been with me from the beginning” (St. John 15:26-27). The Greek word used for “testify” is martyreo, the exact same word translated “bear witness” in the following verse. This is highly significant, for it means that we are to understand the sending of the Spirit as being nothing other than the establishment of the Apostolic office through which the Gospel is preached in the world.
Pentecost is the day on which this happened, when the Apostles began to speak with tongues, the tongues of the people assembled there from nations all around the civilized world. Their speaking was none other than their preaching of the Gospel.
The momentous nature of this day is of great significance, therefore. There are three such days in the church year, and each has its vigil, that is, the evening before it, on which we are given a special opportunity to prepare our hearts and minds for the celebration.
The other two such days are Easter, the highest feast of the year because it is the day of Jesus’ resurrection. This of course is preceded by the Great Vigil of Easter the night before. Then there is Christmas, whose celebration likewise begins on Christmas Eve, also known liturgically as the Vigil of Christmas.
Since this is so, we have on our schedule a Vigil of Pentecost observance on the evening before Pentecost. This year that will be on Saturday, May 19th. The service is structured like the Easter Vigil, but it is simpler and shorter.
Members of the congregation are encouraged to make an extra effort to attend the Vigil, and to let Pentecost, which comes the next day, be counted an important celebration in your hearts and minds.
+ Pastor Eckardt
Renovation News: New Chancel Lights Installed; Rail Moved
On April 4th (Easter Wednesday) Steve Kraklow and Tom Wells went to work, following the considerations and recommendations given by an electrician in Galesburg, and reconfigured our chancel lights. The eight large recessed lights directed from the ceiling to the altar had been out for a few years, and there were complications in the wiring for new lights that prevented mere bulb replacement. The trustees were hoping to figure out a way to install LED lights that operate on a fraction of the wattage and last much longer, and now at last, these hopes have been realized. It was necessary to Jerry-rig the fittings so that the new bulbs could be employed using the existing housing, and the job was accomplished. Some good news in the process was that each light only cost us a total of $40, bringing the total to a mere $320, which is one-half the original estimate (already an inexpensive fix). Now that these lights have been installed, we can look to the possibility of removing the canopy over the altar, to remove the shadows on the wall, open up the architectural structure, and improve the general appearance. See the nearby announcement of a voters’ meeting called to approve this.
The next day they went to work moving the altar rail to its new place below the bottom step level. This has the practical benefit of making approach for communion easier for the elderly and making the chancel area appear more majestic and monumental. The council had discussed this and deemed it an appropriate step to try, especially since we become convinced that the previous way was better after all, the step would not be too difficult to undo. With the moving of the rail we had to consider how much room is needed for pastor during distribution, as well as how much room is needed on the other side during funerals. Meanwhile the font has been moved to the center. This is a move that was tentatively taken a year ago during the ceiling repainting and it received favorable comments. The centering of the font allows it to become a visual connection between the corporate absolution and Baptism, since the pastor stands between the font and the people for the absolution. The movement of the baptismal font to the center also reminds communicants that they approach the altar because they have been baptized.
We have also heard from Andrew Hatterman, of Murals by Jericho in Peoria, who said he hopes to have some proposed ideas for us and get back to us soon. Any major direction we choose to go would of course be subject to voters’ approval. Although a special meeting has been called (see below), the only matter up for approval is the question of the canopy’s removal.
Special Voters’ Meeting Sunday, May 6th
Only two items are on the agenda for voters’ approval.
First, the council has determined that the large tree at the north of the school needs to come down before its root system damages the foundation, and we need to approve funding for it.
Second, now that the new lighting has been completed in the chancel, voters will have the opportunity to decide on removing the canopy over the altar. The cost would be minimal, and by this change we could remove shadows on the wall, open up the architectural structure, and improve the general appearance of the chancel. The voters’ meeting is scheduled for the opening minutes of Bible class time.
May Ushers
Otis Anderson, John Ricknell, Bill Thompson. Jim Hornback serves in reserve, wherever needed.
Rogation Days May 7-9
An old tradition places special days of prayer on the calendar in the week leading up to Ascension Day. The Sunday of that week is called “Rogate,” which means, “Pray.” Monday through Wednesday are called Rogation Days. Here at the church there will be an opportunity to pray the litany on Wednesday the 9th at noon. There is no mass that day.
Ascension Day is May 10th
Our Ascension Day Mass will be Thursday, May 10th, at 7 p.m. Regular Wednesday evening Mass is cancelled this week, and people who like to come midweek are encouraged to the celebration of Ascension Day instead.
Pentecost and Its Vigil May 19th and 20th
Pentecost is May 20th this year. The Pentecost Vigil will be held on Saturday, May 19th at 7:00 p.m. (note new time). The Vigil of Pentecost is a simpler and shorter version of the Easter Vigil. Members are encouraged to take advantage of this special opportunity for solemn worship, as part of the third most important feast of the year, after Easter and Christmas.
Trinity Sunday May 27th
Trinity Sunday comes on the Octave Day of Pentecost. Our Festive Trinity Mass will be preceded by a recitation of the Athanasian Creed.
May Birthdays
5/2 Sheri Kraklow
5/6 Emilie Ricknell
5/10 Bill Thompson
May Anniversaries
5/17/1959 Allan and Barbra Kraklow
5/22/1976 Ed and Lynn Woller
5/28/1982 Christine and Garry Erickson
5/28/1977 John and Charlene Sovanski
Tuesday Afternoon at St. Paul’s
Usually on a Tuesday at 5 p.m. a group of us meet in Pastor’s office to study Scripture. We have been coming to the close of Galatians, and will be moving on to Ephesians. Join us for a lively conversation.
On Wednesdays at 2:30 the radio program is recorded, and this is another opportunity to gather and discuss the word of God. Anyone is welcome to join us for this half-hour session.
Well-wishes for President Miller’s Anniversary
A letter sent to St. John’s in Chatham, to be received at their surprise celebration, on April 29th, of Central Illinois District President Mark Miller’s 35 years in the ministry.
Dear friends at St. John’s,
The members of St. Paul’s in Kewanee greet you and rejoice with you upon hearing of your celebration of President Mark Miller’s 35 years in the Holy Ministry.
We thank Almighty God for the years of President Miller’s ministry in the CID, particularly as we have been privileged to hear his edifying and clear preaching of the Gospel of our Lord, and to see his humble and forthright churchmanship in his dealings as President. We have truly been blessed by his faithfulness. Please convey our warmest greetings and congratulations to him and to his dear wife Deb.
With warmest regards in Christ,
+ Burnell F Eckardt Jr.
Pastor, St. Paul Lutheran Church, Kewanee, Ill.
Altar Guild Notes
In Our Prayers
Our list of prayer intentions at mass includes the names on the lists below. To update the lists please inform pastor. in our parish:
Emilie Ricknell, John Ricknell, Linda Rowe, Mary Hamilton, Emmy Wear, Sue Murphy, Don Murphy, Joyce Long, Steve Peart, Bea Harris, Dick Melchin, DeAnne Anderson
and also:
Anna Rutowicz [granddaughter of Harrises]
Jodi Rutowicz [daughter of Harrises]
Julie Ross [Svetlana Meaker’s daughter]
Jill Matchett [at request of Diana Shreck]
Annie Eastman [at request of Svetlana Meaker]
Steve Draminski [friend of Jim Watson]
Kathy Nussear [Joyce Long’s daughter, cancer]
Bud Harfst [Sue Murphy’s brother]
Harold Woods [Sue Murphy’s brother-in-law]
Pam Helmkamp
Dick Heiden [Carol Eckardt’s father]
Pastor Kenneth Wegener
Elizabeth Godke [Sharon Field’s mother]
Kathy Hopkins
Jesse Armstrong
Michael Nelson
Brandt & Oneda Hendrickson [Ricknell relatives]
Bob Laskey [friend of Monroe Kemerling]
Daniel Wallgren [our roofer]
in the military, especially:
John Eckardt
Donny Appleman [at request of the Ricknells]
Thomas Kim [at request of the Shrecks]
Michael Creech [at request of the Murphys]
Katherine Creech [at request of the Murphys]
Richard Heiden [at request of the Eckardts]
Carter Wills [grandson of the Thompsons]
Luke Van Landigan [grandson of Dick Melchin]
Jaclyn Alvarez [daughter of Kris Harden]
Traven Wetzel [at request of Kris Harden]
Shawn Wetzel
Eric Verplaetse [Sandra’s grandson]
Jake Mahaffey
in trouble: especially
any unborn children in danger of abortion
those suffering from unrest, persecution, and imprisonment in Pakistan, Egypt, Iraq, Syria, Sudan, North Korea, and elsewhere
CCA’s 25th Symposium Features Pastor
The annual Concordia Catechetical Academy Symposium will be meeting in Waukesha, Wisconsin, from June 20-22. Its theme is The Gift of Creation and Her Redemption in Christ.
This year’s symposium is particularly intended “for parents, pastors, teachers, and homeschoolers: An exploration of Lutheran Catechesis materials for catechizing on God’s gift of creation and her redemption in Christ,” but is always a worthwhile event for anyone else. Pastor Eckardt is one of the speakers this year.
Details are posted in the hallway. Highlights:
Preacher for Matins and Divine Service:
Rev. Dr. Karl F. Fabrizius (In the Grand Ballroom)
Sessions and speakers:
Christ and the Bible’s Catechesis on Creation: What Is at Stake? Rev. Peter C. Bender
Created by God: One Becomes Two—Two Become One: What’s Love Got to Do with It? Catechesis on the creation and redemption of marriage
Rev. Steven R. Schumacher
Behold the Man: The Image of God
Rev. Dr. Burnell F. Eckardt, Jr.
Living the Sacramental Life: The Fulfillment of Creation in the Baptized and Eucharistic Life
Rev. Dr. D. Richard Stuckwisch
I Am Most Certainly Baptized: The Life that God Engenders Rev. Dr. Thomas V. Aadland
Panel Discussion Aadland, Bender, Eckardt, Fabrizius, Schumacher, and Stuckwisch
Friday afternoon Augsburger Barbecue (in Sussex)
$90 before June 1; $120 after June 1; $25 registration for spouse or for college/sem students. Augsburger barbecue $12/person, $18/couple, or $30/family. For details or to register visit http://lutherancatechesis.org/symposium/ or call Peace at 262-246-3200
Spring Cleaning Day and Cookout at Pastor’s House
A special spring cleaning day is scheduled for Saturday, May 19th. This is also the day for the Vigil of Pentecost, later in the day at 7 p.m. We are looking for a good crew of volunteers to help with some deep cleaning, as we did last year about this time.
Then we’ll head over to Pastor and Carol’s house afterwards for a weenie roast in their backyard.
Let’s give our church and ground some extra TLC, and follow it up with some good time together.
Thanks Be to God for Sacrificial Giving and Volunteering
The members of this parish have always responded to the needs of the parish with dedicated, sacrificial giving of contributions and volunteering time, for which we are bound to give thanks to Almighty God. This dedication is a marvel, and it has enabled us, by God’s grace, to continue to be a vibrant and healthy congregation, even undertaking a renovation project. We may be small, but the grace of God is with us. Thanks be to God!
Persecution details (see www.vomcanada.com)
SYRIA: Christians Facing State of Emergency
19 April 2018
Hundreds of thousands of Kurdish people of northern Syria are being forced to flee for their lives as they face attacks from Islamist militias supported by the Turkish military. Many from rural areas surrounding Afrin (a city located in what was considered the Kurdish region) had initially fled into the city. However, on March 18th, Kurdish soldiers in Afrin were also forced to flee, leaving the city under the control of the Islamists. Turkish president Recep Erdogan has promised to repopulate the city with non-Kurdish Arab Syrians who are presently dwelling in Turkey as refugees.
SUDAN: Believers Charged for Protesting Takeover
In April 2017, a group of Christians had gathered to prevent the confiscation and sale of a church-owned school in Omdurman. The three-day protest ended when police arrested a number of the men. Soon afterwards, an armed mob attacked the women remaining at the scene. Several men rushed to aid these women and, in the mayhem, a church elder named Younan Abdullah was tragically killed.
Additional areas considered places of persecution may be found at www.vomcanada.com (Voice of the Martyrs web site).
Remember the Food Bank
Contributions to the Food Bank may be dropped off at the box in the hallway. Routine trips are made to the local food bank; but first, items are kept for people in need who occasionally stop by asking for help.
St. Paul’s Ev. Lutheran Church
109 S. Elm Street
Kewanee, IL 61443
109 S. Elm, Kewanee, Illinois 61443
Newsletter
Volume 29 May 2018 No. 5
The Coming of the Holy Spirit
In the Gospel according to St. John, Jesus refers to the sending of the Holy Spirit and the sending of his Apostles at the same time, indicating that these are not two but one sending. The sending of the Spirit is the sending of the Apostles. He said that he would send the Spirit from the Father to “testify” of him, and then immediately he says, “Ye also shall bear witness, because ye have been with me from the beginning” (St. John 15:26-27). The Greek word used for “testify” is martyreo, the exact same word translated “bear witness” in the following verse. This is highly significant, for it means that we are to understand the sending of the Spirit as being nothing other than the establishment of the Apostolic office through which the Gospel is preached in the world.
Pentecost is the day on which this happened, when the Apostles began to speak with tongues, the tongues of the people assembled there from nations all around the civilized world. Their speaking was none other than their preaching of the Gospel.
The momentous nature of this day is of great significance, therefore. There are three such days in the church year, and each has its vigil, that is, the evening before it, on which we are given a special opportunity to prepare our hearts and minds for the celebration.
The other two such days are Easter, the highest feast of the year because it is the day of Jesus’ resurrection. This of course is preceded by the Great Vigil of Easter the night before. Then there is Christmas, whose celebration likewise begins on Christmas Eve, also known liturgically as the Vigil of Christmas.
Since this is so, we have on our schedule a Vigil of Pentecost observance on the evening before Pentecost. This year that will be on Saturday, May 19th. The service is structured like the Easter Vigil, but it is simpler and shorter.
Members of the congregation are encouraged to make an extra effort to attend the Vigil, and to let Pentecost, which comes the next day, be counted an important celebration in your hearts and minds.
+ Pastor Eckardt
Renovation News: New Chancel Lights Installed; Rail Moved
On April 4th (Easter Wednesday) Steve Kraklow and Tom Wells went to work, following the considerations and recommendations given by an electrician in Galesburg, and reconfigured our chancel lights. The eight large recessed lights directed from the ceiling to the altar had been out for a few years, and there were complications in the wiring for new lights that prevented mere bulb replacement. The trustees were hoping to figure out a way to install LED lights that operate on a fraction of the wattage and last much longer, and now at last, these hopes have been realized. It was necessary to Jerry-rig the fittings so that the new bulbs could be employed using the existing housing, and the job was accomplished. Some good news in the process was that each light only cost us a total of $40, bringing the total to a mere $320, which is one-half the original estimate (already an inexpensive fix). Now that these lights have been installed, we can look to the possibility of removing the canopy over the altar, to remove the shadows on the wall, open up the architectural structure, and improve the general appearance. See the nearby announcement of a voters’ meeting called to approve this.
The next day they went to work moving the altar rail to its new place below the bottom step level. This has the practical benefit of making approach for communion easier for the elderly and making the chancel area appear more majestic and monumental. The council had discussed this and deemed it an appropriate step to try, especially since we become convinced that the previous way was better after all, the step would not be too difficult to undo. With the moving of the rail we had to consider how much room is needed for pastor during distribution, as well as how much room is needed on the other side during funerals. Meanwhile the font has been moved to the center. This is a move that was tentatively taken a year ago during the ceiling repainting and it received favorable comments. The centering of the font allows it to become a visual connection between the corporate absolution and Baptism, since the pastor stands between the font and the people for the absolution. The movement of the baptismal font to the center also reminds communicants that they approach the altar because they have been baptized.
We have also heard from Andrew Hatterman, of Murals by Jericho in Peoria, who said he hopes to have some proposed ideas for us and get back to us soon. Any major direction we choose to go would of course be subject to voters’ approval. Although a special meeting has been called (see below), the only matter up for approval is the question of the canopy’s removal.
Special Voters’ Meeting Sunday, May 6th
Only two items are on the agenda for voters’ approval.
First, the council has determined that the large tree at the north of the school needs to come down before its root system damages the foundation, and we need to approve funding for it.
Second, now that the new lighting has been completed in the chancel, voters will have the opportunity to decide on removing the canopy over the altar. The cost would be minimal, and by this change we could remove shadows on the wall, open up the architectural structure, and improve the general appearance of the chancel. The voters’ meeting is scheduled for the opening minutes of Bible class time.
May Ushers
Otis Anderson, John Ricknell, Bill Thompson. Jim Hornback serves in reserve, wherever needed.
Rogation Days May 7-9
An old tradition places special days of prayer on the calendar in the week leading up to Ascension Day. The Sunday of that week is called “Rogate,” which means, “Pray.” Monday through Wednesday are called Rogation Days. Here at the church there will be an opportunity to pray the litany on Wednesday the 9th at noon. There is no mass that day.
Ascension Day is May 10th
Our Ascension Day Mass will be Thursday, May 10th, at 7 p.m. Regular Wednesday evening Mass is cancelled this week, and people who like to come midweek are encouraged to the celebration of Ascension Day instead.
Pentecost and Its Vigil May 19th and 20th
Pentecost is May 20th this year. The Pentecost Vigil will be held on Saturday, May 19th at 7:00 p.m. (note new time). The Vigil of Pentecost is a simpler and shorter version of the Easter Vigil. Members are encouraged to take advantage of this special opportunity for solemn worship, as part of the third most important feast of the year, after Easter and Christmas.
Trinity Sunday May 27th
Trinity Sunday comes on the Octave Day of Pentecost. Our Festive Trinity Mass will be preceded by a recitation of the Athanasian Creed.
May Birthdays
5/2 Sheri Kraklow
5/6 Emilie Ricknell
5/10 Bill Thompson
May Anniversaries
5/17/1959 Allan and Barbra Kraklow
5/22/1976 Ed and Lynn Woller
5/28/1982 Christine and Garry Erickson
5/28/1977 John and Charlene Sovanski
Tuesday Afternoon at St. Paul’s
Usually on a Tuesday at 5 p.m. a group of us meet in Pastor’s office to study Scripture. We have been coming to the close of Galatians, and will be moving on to Ephesians. Join us for a lively conversation.
On Wednesdays at 2:30 the radio program is recorded, and this is another opportunity to gather and discuss the word of God. Anyone is welcome to join us for this half-hour session.
Well-wishes for President Miller’s Anniversary
A letter sent to St. John’s in Chatham, to be received at their surprise celebration, on April 29th, of Central Illinois District President Mark Miller’s 35 years in the ministry.
Dear friends at St. John’s,
The members of St. Paul’s in Kewanee greet you and rejoice with you upon hearing of your celebration of President Mark Miller’s 35 years in the Holy Ministry.
We thank Almighty God for the years of President Miller’s ministry in the CID, particularly as we have been privileged to hear his edifying and clear preaching of the Gospel of our Lord, and to see his humble and forthright churchmanship in his dealings as President. We have truly been blessed by his faithfulness. Please convey our warmest greetings and congratulations to him and to his dear wife Deb.
With warmest regards in Christ,
+ Burnell F Eckardt Jr.
Pastor, St. Paul Lutheran Church, Kewanee, Ill.
Altar Guild Notes
- May 19th and 20th (Saturday and Sunday) are for Pentecost and its vigil. Color is RED
- Color remains RED for midweek, May 23rd.
- Color is WHITE for Trinity, May 27th.
- Color remains WHITE for midweek, May 30th.
- Color remains WHITE for the Octave of Trinity, June 6th, then changes to GREEN for the Trinity season.
- Altar guild members are reminded to take a few moments when you prepare the altar to check candle wicks. Make sure they are not curled over. Also, when the teardrop oil lights are used, make sure the wick is showing. We will discuss this in our May meeting, scheduled for Tuesday May 1st.
In Our Prayers
Our list of prayer intentions at mass includes the names on the lists below. To update the lists please inform pastor. in our parish:
Emilie Ricknell, John Ricknell, Linda Rowe, Mary Hamilton, Emmy Wear, Sue Murphy, Don Murphy, Joyce Long, Steve Peart, Bea Harris, Dick Melchin, DeAnne Anderson
and also:
Anna Rutowicz [granddaughter of Harrises]
Jodi Rutowicz [daughter of Harrises]
Julie Ross [Svetlana Meaker’s daughter]
Jill Matchett [at request of Diana Shreck]
Annie Eastman [at request of Svetlana Meaker]
Steve Draminski [friend of Jim Watson]
Kathy Nussear [Joyce Long’s daughter, cancer]
Bud Harfst [Sue Murphy’s brother]
Harold Woods [Sue Murphy’s brother-in-law]
Pam Helmkamp
Dick Heiden [Carol Eckardt’s father]
Pastor Kenneth Wegener
Elizabeth Godke [Sharon Field’s mother]
Kathy Hopkins
Jesse Armstrong
Michael Nelson
Brandt & Oneda Hendrickson [Ricknell relatives]
Bob Laskey [friend of Monroe Kemerling]
Daniel Wallgren [our roofer]
in the military, especially:
John Eckardt
Donny Appleman [at request of the Ricknells]
Thomas Kim [at request of the Shrecks]
Michael Creech [at request of the Murphys]
Katherine Creech [at request of the Murphys]
Richard Heiden [at request of the Eckardts]
Carter Wills [grandson of the Thompsons]
Luke Van Landigan [grandson of Dick Melchin]
Jaclyn Alvarez [daughter of Kris Harden]
Traven Wetzel [at request of Kris Harden]
Shawn Wetzel
Eric Verplaetse [Sandra’s grandson]
Jake Mahaffey
in trouble: especially
any unborn children in danger of abortion
those suffering from unrest, persecution, and imprisonment in Pakistan, Egypt, Iraq, Syria, Sudan, North Korea, and elsewhere
CCA’s 25th Symposium Features Pastor
The annual Concordia Catechetical Academy Symposium will be meeting in Waukesha, Wisconsin, from June 20-22. Its theme is The Gift of Creation and Her Redemption in Christ.
This year’s symposium is particularly intended “for parents, pastors, teachers, and homeschoolers: An exploration of Lutheran Catechesis materials for catechizing on God’s gift of creation and her redemption in Christ,” but is always a worthwhile event for anyone else. Pastor Eckardt is one of the speakers this year.
Details are posted in the hallway. Highlights:
Preacher for Matins and Divine Service:
Rev. Dr. Karl F. Fabrizius (In the Grand Ballroom)
Sessions and speakers:
Christ and the Bible’s Catechesis on Creation: What Is at Stake? Rev. Peter C. Bender
Created by God: One Becomes Two—Two Become One: What’s Love Got to Do with It? Catechesis on the creation and redemption of marriage
Rev. Steven R. Schumacher
Behold the Man: The Image of God
Rev. Dr. Burnell F. Eckardt, Jr.
Living the Sacramental Life: The Fulfillment of Creation in the Baptized and Eucharistic Life
Rev. Dr. D. Richard Stuckwisch
I Am Most Certainly Baptized: The Life that God Engenders Rev. Dr. Thomas V. Aadland
Panel Discussion Aadland, Bender, Eckardt, Fabrizius, Schumacher, and Stuckwisch
Friday afternoon Augsburger Barbecue (in Sussex)
$90 before June 1; $120 after June 1; $25 registration for spouse or for college/sem students. Augsburger barbecue $12/person, $18/couple, or $30/family. For details or to register visit http://lutherancatechesis.org/symposium/ or call Peace at 262-246-3200
Spring Cleaning Day and Cookout at Pastor’s House
A special spring cleaning day is scheduled for Saturday, May 19th. This is also the day for the Vigil of Pentecost, later in the day at 7 p.m. We are looking for a good crew of volunteers to help with some deep cleaning, as we did last year about this time.
Then we’ll head over to Pastor and Carol’s house afterwards for a weenie roast in their backyard.
Let’s give our church and ground some extra TLC, and follow it up with some good time together.
Thanks Be to God for Sacrificial Giving and Volunteering
The members of this parish have always responded to the needs of the parish with dedicated, sacrificial giving of contributions and volunteering time, for which we are bound to give thanks to Almighty God. This dedication is a marvel, and it has enabled us, by God’s grace, to continue to be a vibrant and healthy congregation, even undertaking a renovation project. We may be small, but the grace of God is with us. Thanks be to God!
Persecution details (see www.vomcanada.com)
SYRIA: Christians Facing State of Emergency
19 April 2018
Hundreds of thousands of Kurdish people of northern Syria are being forced to flee for their lives as they face attacks from Islamist militias supported by the Turkish military. Many from rural areas surrounding Afrin (a city located in what was considered the Kurdish region) had initially fled into the city. However, on March 18th, Kurdish soldiers in Afrin were also forced to flee, leaving the city under the control of the Islamists. Turkish president Recep Erdogan has promised to repopulate the city with non-Kurdish Arab Syrians who are presently dwelling in Turkey as refugees.
SUDAN: Believers Charged for Protesting Takeover
In April 2017, a group of Christians had gathered to prevent the confiscation and sale of a church-owned school in Omdurman. The three-day protest ended when police arrested a number of the men. Soon afterwards, an armed mob attacked the women remaining at the scene. Several men rushed to aid these women and, in the mayhem, a church elder named Younan Abdullah was tragically killed.
Additional areas considered places of persecution may be found at www.vomcanada.com (Voice of the Martyrs web site).
Remember the Food Bank
Contributions to the Food Bank may be dropped off at the box in the hallway. Routine trips are made to the local food bank; but first, items are kept for people in need who occasionally stop by asking for help.
St. Paul’s Ev. Lutheran Church
109 S. Elm Street
Kewanee, IL 61443
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