|
10/30/2018 November 2018Justification by Faith
According to Martin Luther and the 16th century reformers with him, the article on which the Christian Church stands or falls is justification by faith. This is also a hallmark of the Reformation. The major article in the Augsburg Confession, which is the chief document in the Lutheran Confessions, is Article IV, On Justification. It reads as follows: “Our Churches teach that we cannot obtain forgiveness of sin and righteousness before God through our merit, work, or satisfactions, but that we receive forgiveness of sin and become righteous before God out of grace for Christ‘s sake through faith when we believe that Christ has suffered for us and that for his sake our sin is forgiven and righteousness and eternal life are given to us. For God will regard and reckon this faith as righteousness in his sight, as St. Paul says in Romans 3 and 4.” It should be understood without question that our salvation does not depend upon anything that we do, because it depends upon everything that Christ has done. To deny that a sinner is justified before God only by faith in Christ is to deny Christ himself, for whoever denies this is saying that justification happens some other way. What other way? By works? By love? By merit? Any of these put forward as that by which we are justified obscures the works and merit of Christ. He who denies justification by faith is saying that Christ did not need to atone for the sin of the world by his sacrificial death. The Reformation—which is really all about justification—has been observed annually since sometime in the 17th century, and it is right that we do it, because it was a watershed time in the history of Christianity. The Church had veered off course in such a dreadful manner that a reformation was long overdue, and God saw fit to order it so in the early 1500s. But it isn’t just nostalgia or mere history that we celebrate. It’s the heart of what we believe. It’s the article on which the Church—the Christian Church on Earth--stands or falls: that we receive forgiveness of sin and become righteous before God out of grace for Christ‘s sake through faith when we believe that Christ has suffered for us and that for his sake our sin is forgiven and righteousness and eternal life are given to us. + Pastor Eckardt Oktoberfest Total receipts have not yet been tallied, but we have hearts of thanks to God for another successful festival, and thanks to all who have been working tirelessly to help our congregation, volunteering time, donations, and effort. Renovation news Phase Three of our renovation (the Chancel) began when we moved the altar rail below the steps and removed the canopy. As previously reported, now that Oktoberfest is over, we are looking toward completion of the chancel. Currently we are waiting for our key volunteers, who are farming, to finish their harvesting work, likely by some time in November. Our plaster and paint man, Bob Harrison, is ready. When we begin, we expect to remove of all the chancel furniture and set up scaffolding, while moving our worship to the gym for several weeks, as we did for the work we did on the nave in 2016. The organ was tuned just before Oktoberfest, but our tuner has indicated that he needs to fix some areas, which will involve his return some time soon. As previously reported, we are looking to have the chancel walls be the color of the nave ceiling, accented by the tan color of the pillars. A dove symbolizing the Holy Spirit will be painted on the wall above the cross (rather than in the ceiling as now). The ceiling is to be a dark blue hue, intended to bring out the fact that the ceiling itself is an architectural canopy over the altar. Twelve shields with the symbols of the Apostles are to be placed up in the great arch (above the chancel steps). Sharon Hartz has drawn some sample shields with color considerations, and they have temporarily been taped on the walls of the doorway between the church and the school for viewing. Of course we need to keep raising money, and figuring out how to do all this as inexpensively as possible. As we have been blessed thus far, we pray that God continues to provide us with our needs. November Ushers Otis Anderson John Ricknell, Bill Thompson November Anniversaries 11/5 Steve and Berniece Harris 11/10 Gayle and Phil Beauprez November Birthdays 11/13 Shannon Peart 11/19 Steve Kraklow 11/20 Jewneel Walker 11/30 Charlene Sovanski Shut ins Mary Hamilton at home; Emmy Wear at Williamsfield Home in Williamsfield; Emilie Ricknell at home; Joyce Long at home; Dick Melchin at Hammond Henry extended care in Geneseo; Bea Harris, often homebound. Daily Prayer For daily prayer in the homes of members, the following helps are offered: As a minimum, when you rise in the morning and go to bed at night, follow the catechism. That is, repeat the invocation (In the name of the Father and of the + Son and of the Holy Spirit, Amen), say the Apostles’ Creed, and Say the Our Father. If you wish, you may add Luther’s morning or evening prayer. It’s a good practice to set aside some time to read your Bible every day as well, at least a chapter. You are encouraged to use your hymnal for a richer daily prayer. The order of matins (morning) or vespers (evening) is easily adoptable for personal use. The hymnal is also a good resource for a schedule of daily readings. See page 161. These readings correspond with the material in Every Day Will I Bless Thee: Meditations for the Daily Office, my book of meditations for daily use); to purchase a copy, see me. – Pastor Gottesdienst news Since August, the editorial staff at Gotttesdienst has been hard at work. This quarterly Journal of the Lutheran Liturgy, currently finishing in its 26th year of publication, is owned by St. Paul’s, and is headquartered right here. The financial part of the enterprise is entirely separate, but your pastor is editor-in-chief, and several members of St. Paul’s volunteer with mailings. The journal is widely known and influential in Missouri Synod circles. Ten pastors make up the editorial team, and four new online bloggers, also pastors, have recently been added. Every time another issue comes out, free copies are available in the narthex. The editors have recently begun to make some rather massive expansion efforts. For over two decades we made our presence known primarily by means of this print journal, but when the Internet came of age, we began to realize that we would need to keep up or go the way of so many other print periodicals and newspapers. Finally, in August of this year, we had an editorial board meeting at a retreat center in Racine, Wisconsin. We had come together with some definite items in mind. First is our new blogging traffic and format. Earlier this year, thanks to the able help of our new website designer Sarah Ludwig Rausch, we had reformatted the entire website and brought the blog under its umbrella. Now we have begun some serious blogging. We have taken on four new Gottesbloggers, whose opening posts have been brilliant. The editors of Gottesdienst welcomed these four Gottesbloggers: Rev. John Bussman, St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Cullman, Ala.; Rev. Sean Daenzer, Peace Lutheran Church, Barney, ND and Trinity Lutheran Church, Great Bend, ND; Rev. Anthony Dodgers, Immanuel Lutheran Church, Charlotte, IA; and Rev. Stephen Preus, Trinity Lutheran Church, Vinton, IA. Within the first month of their blogging and ours, our new blog posts have suddenly gone viral in the Lutheran world, with 12,000 readers of whom nearly 9,000 reacted in some way. Since then we have been blogging close to every day, and our posts usually reach over 1000 readers apiece. Second, we’ve also added a new feature called The Gottesdienst Crowd, a Podcast that comes out every Wednesday for on-demand listening, hosted by Rev. Jason Braaten. He interviews one or two of the rest of us, and sometimes we even have a debate. These too have reached about a thousand listeners apiece. All of this is free for the readers and listeners, but subscribers have responded with generous donations that have contributed mightily to making this possible. Check it all out at www.gottesdienst.org. Altar Guild News The last Wednesday in October is red, to observe All Saints (which is November 1st). Then it turns to green for the rest of the month except for Thanksgiving, which we observe on Wednesday night, November 21st (color for Thanksgiving is white), and the following Wednesday night, November 28th on which will observe St. Andrew’s Day (color for St. Andrew’s is red). Following St. Andrew’s the color changes to violet for Advent, which begins the first weekend in December. November meeting is November 6th, at 6 pm. All Saints November 1st, All Saints Day, will be observed on Wednesday, October 31st, at 7 pm. First Tuesday November’s First Tuesday events will be held on November 6th. Altar Guild at 6 p.m. Vespers is at 6:45, and Elders meet at 7:15. Copies of Pastor’s new book available (Christmas gift ideas?): Leave It Alone. You’ll Break It. Liturgical Observations $20.00 In Our Prayers Our current list of prayer intentions at mass includes the names on the lists here following. To update the list please inform the pastor.in our parish: Emilie Ricknell John Ricknell Linda Rowe Mary Hamilton Emmy Wear Sue Murphy Don Murphy Joyce Long Dick Melchin DeAnne Anderson Bea Harris Allan Kraklow and also: Anna Rutowicz [granddaughter of Harrises] Katy Rutovicz [granddaughter of Harrises] Jodi Rutowicz [daughter of Harrises] Julie Ross [Svetlana Meaker’s daughter] 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 Jesse Armstrong Brandt and Oneda Hendrickson [Ricknells’ relatives] Linda Anderson Teresa Robertson [Carol Eckardt’s niece] Sarah Corzine Helen Woods [Sue Murphy’s sister] Janice Hart [Judy Thompson’s sister] Ken Hart [Judy Thompson’s brother-in-law] Caleb Cleaver [Ricknells’ grandson] Dennis Hoag, Adam Shreck’s father-in-law, who had a heart transplant. in the military: John Eckardt Donny Appleman [at request of the Ricknells] Richard Heiden [at request of the Eckardts] 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: any unborn children in danger of abortion those suffering from unrest, persecution, and imprisonment in Sri Lanka, Iran, Iraq, Syria, Kenya, Sudan, Nigeria, China, Vietnam, North Korea, and elsewhere Persecution details on the back page Council Meeting Date The Council meeting is set for Wednesday, November 21st, at 5:30. Thanksgiving Worship As usual, our Thanksgiving Mass will be held on Wednesday evening prior, which this year is November 21nd, at 7:00. All members are encouraged to come. St. Andrew’s Day November 28th we will be observing St. Andrew’s Day (Wednesday evening at 7 pm.), though St. Andrew’s Day itself is on November 30th. Choir! The choir has begun rehearsing again: Wednesdays after mass, about 8 p.m. All singers come! Persecution Details From prayer list above SRI LANKA: Violence Against Christians Source(s): Morning Star News, Release International Date: 25 October 2018 The church in Sri Lanka has been facing increasing violence and discrimination in the past year. Contributing to the problem has been a recent rise in Hindu extremism taking root alongside the long-time Buddhist aggression. IRAN: Rapid Growth Despite Intense Persecution Source(s): VOMC Date: 25 October 2018 Iranian Christians are witnessing one of the fastest growing underground church movements in the world. Yet, along with this exponential growth are the fires of intense persecution. Any form of evangelism committed by Christians is considered illegal and, therefore, can even lead to the death penalty. Faith in Christ results in serious consequences and converts from Islam face arbitrary arrest and detention. In addition, they are often forced to divulge information on other Christians. KENYA: Two Teachers Killed in Bombing Source(s): VOMC Date: 18 October 2018 Two Christian teachers in Kenya were killed when al Shabaab militants threw an explosive device at the house in which they were living. The two victims were staying in a home specifically for non-local teachers of the Arabia Boys Secondary School located in Mandera County near the border with Somalia. VIETNAM: Church Faces Shutdown Order Source(s): VOMC Date: 18 October 2018 As believers met for worship on the morning of October 7th in Cuor Dang Commune, Daklak Province, local authorities entered the home where they were meeting, demanding that they stop all religious activities. Those present refused to leave, saying that any action would have to wait until after they were finished. Because the home was crowded, the officials were forced to wait outside. NIGERIA: Aid Worker Killed; Leah "Slave for Life" Source(s): VOMC Date: 18 October 2018 "Islamic State West Africa Province" (ISWAP), the Boko Haram faction currently holding 15-year-old Leah Sharibu, has released a statement claiming to have executed a second Red Cross aid worker during the past month. In the statement, the group claimed that Hauwa Leman, along with Saifura Ahmed (who was killed in September), were apostates because they joined the Red Cross. St. Paul’s Ev. Lutheran Church 109 S. Elm Street Kewanee, IL 61443 8/27/2018 September 2018St. Paul’s Evangelical-Lutheran Church
109 S. Elm, Kewanee, Illinois 61443 Newsletter Volume 30 September 2018 No. 9 O Little Flock, Fear Not the Foe I’ve been thinking about this beloved hymn by Johann Altenburg (TLH #263) in connection with our little parish. Every time we sing it, I can’t help but thinking of how appropriate it is for us. For without question over the years we have become a little flock by almost anyone’s calculation (I say almost, because if you measure our size against, say, the congregations of the Evangelical Lutheran, we would actually be counted as a large congregation). Over the past 18 years we have seen a gradual diminishing of the size of St. Paul’s, due in large part to demographics. People have had to leave Kewanee to find work, and meanwhile a key factor that was once prevalent everywhere is gone, namely the abundant bearing and begetting of Lutheran children. With the cultural assault on marriage and the family came also the minority status of what used to be common: children of solid families filling our schools, pews, and Sunday School classes. Although we have welcomed a good number of new members, that number has not quite kept pace with our losses and deaths. Such are the circumstances. And yet the comforting words of the hymn ring true: O little flock, fear not the Foe who madly seeks your overthrow; dread not his rage and pow’r. What tho’ your courage sometimes faints, his seeming triumph o’er God’s saints lasts but a little hour. We know this is true because of Christ’s death and resurrection. He has promised that the gates of hell will not prevail against His church, and that all things work out to the good for those who love him. Thus we agree with the hymnist who continues: Be of good cheer; your cause belongs to Him who can avenge your wrongs; leave it to Him, our Lord. Tho’ hidden yet from mortal eyes, His Gideon shall for you arise, uphold you and His Word. In this verse, “His Gideon” is Christ, of course, the greater Gideon, winning through to victory against the enemies of God’s people. As true as God’s own Word is true, not earth nor hell with all their crew against us shall prevail. A jest and byword are they grown, God is with us, we are His own; our vict’ry cannot fail. As Gideon’s three hundred men conquered thousands of Midianites without even fighting, but by breaking the pitchers in their hands and confusing the enemy to cause them to start attacking one another, to the point of defeat (see Judges 7), so Christ our Lord became Himself a broken pitcher—crucified, dead, and buried, that is—and so earth and hell with all their crew were defeated by their own wickedness. For Jesus’ enemies and the devil saw to His crucifixion, the very thing that redeemed the world. Amen, Lord Jesus, grant our prayer; Great Captain, now Thine arm make bare, fight for us once again! So shall Thy saints and martyrs raise a mighty chorus to Thy praise, world without end. Amen. Clearly, with Christ we have nothing to fear, and we step forth in faith, knowing that we have already gained eternal victory in Him. + Pastor Eckardt Project Moves On: Phase III Begins Our final stage of renovation is about to begin, starting with the exciting step of installing air conditioning. Since he duct-work is already in place—a foresight that was thankfully envisioned many years ago—the process of installing four central air units is not too complicated. We have entered a contract with Woltil’s Heating and Air Conditioning. The chief workman, Larry Rowe, who is Linda’s husband, has indicated a likelihood of the installation’s completion by the middle of September. For the first time in the building’s 115-year history, St. Paul’s will then have air conditioning. This is all thanks to a special anonymous $10,000 donation given during the summer that was given with a wish that it be used for this purpose. The voters determined, after some reasonable discussion, to go forward with the installation in accordance with the donor’s wish. What remains is for the chancel and the flooring to be completed. Since much of what we are hoping to do is through volunteer labor, and since some of our volunteers are in the fields as farmers, we are hoping they can get back to the project soon after Oktoberfest which is October 7-9. Meanwhile twelve shields have been purchased, on which will be painted the symbols of the twelve apostles. These shields are to be mounted in the Great Arch, which is the archway that is suspended over the chancel steps. This will be an attempt to restore what once graced the walls of this church many years ago. When the time comes to repair and repaint the walls of the chancel, it is likely that we will be needing to meet in the gym for worship for several weeks, as we did in the summer of 2016. It is difficult to put more of a precise time frame to the planning, and indeed we may find unforeseen twists in the road as we continue, but it is exciting to know that the project continues to move forward. Thanks be to God! + Pastor Eckardt Choir Rehearsals Regular choir rehearsals have resumed Wednesdays after mass. Calling all singers, to prepare for Oktoberfest. We’ll have some new music, and, as always, have lots of fun. Church Extension Fund Ms. Chris Anderson is the new executive director of the Church Extension Fund for The Central Illinois District, and recently she reminded me that investments with the C.E.F. are a blessing to both the investor and the loan recipient, with the investor not only receiving a financial blessing but also a spiritual one in knowing that he is playing an important role in expanding God’s kingdom. Brochures are available in the narthex for more information. + Pastor Eckardt Oktoberfest! October 7-9, 2018 (Sunday, Monday, Tuesday) The Twenty-third Annual Oktoberfest! and Gottesdienst Central will be hosting the Rev. Dr. Thomas M. Winger, president of Concordia Lutheran Theological Seminary (CLTS), St. Catharines, Ontario. Dr. Winger is the author of dozens of articles, many published in Lutheran Theological Review. He is the (co)editor of three books and a contributor to The Lutheran Study Bible. He has written studies for the theological commissions of Lutheran Church–Canada and the Evangelical Lutheran Church of England (ELCE). He also served as a member of the liturgy committee of Lutheran Service Book. He is a recognized authority especially in liturgy and in Ephesians. His topic will be “Hints of the Liturgy in the Epistle to the Ephesians and other New Testament Texts” The event begins Sunday the 7th with Vespers at 5 p.m. Following the service is our annual bratwurst banquet. When everyone has had their fill of brats and beer, Dr. Winger will give a synopsis of his Monday seminar. Following the banquet is the after-the-party party, at Father Eckardt’s home, where a gaggle of the editors of Gottesdienst is milling about. On Monday, October 8th, the day begins with Mass at 9 a.m. Following Mass and a continental breakfast, Dr. Winger will hold forth for the rest of the day, in two sessions running until about 2:45, followed by Vespers. On Tuesday, October 9th, the conference will continue in the same format, with a special focus on the themes of our current and previous issue of Gottesdienst, namely: Weddings and Funerals, with Father Eckardt, pastor at St. Paul’s, holding forth. The Tuesday session will be shorter, framed by morning low Mass (spoken Divine Service) and Mid-day prayers. REGISTRATION: MEMBERS OF ST. PAUL’S GO FREE. For others, $50 per person, $70 per couple, students $25 — includes Sunday banquet and Monday brunch; no charge for children with parents. To register, click here. Pastor to Speak in Detroit Every year Zion Church in Detroit holds its St. Michael conference on the last Monday of September, and Pastor Eckardt is always one of the speakers at the conference. This year, Dr. Naomichi Masaki is the Keynote Speaker. Dr. Masaki is a systematician with an outstanding knowledge of the Lutheran Confessions, and a noted Luther scholar, with a special interest in the Words of Institution and the Lord’s Supper. His Keynote paper will be titled “Luther and the Lord's Supper: The Verba Domini as the Mandating Words". His paper will set the theme for the 2018 Conference. Dr. Masaki serves as Professor of Systematic Theology and Director of the STM and PhD in Theology programs for Concordia Theological Seminary Fort Wayne. For information consult Pastor. September Birthdays 9/1 John Ricknell 9/10 Jan Schoen 9/15 Chuck Russell 9/17 Mary Beth Jones 9/18 DeAnne Anderson 9/19 Jaclyn Kraklow 9/19 Jamie Kraklow 9/20 Derrick Baker 9/28 Allan Kraklow September Anniversaries 9/18/1976 Tom and Sue Ann Wells September Ushers: Allan Kraklow, Steve Kraklow, Tom Wells. Shut ins Mary Hamilton at home; Emmy Wear at Williamsfield Home in Williamsfield; Emilie Ricknell at home, Joyce Long at home, Dick Melchin at Hammond-Henry Extended Care in Geneseo. Altar Guild News Sundays during September, the color is green. Wednesdays are also all green. Although Holy Cross Day (14th), St. Matthew’s Day (21st) and Michaelmas (29th) are in September, they fall on Fridays and a Saturday, and therefore we will not observe them. In Our Prayers Our current list of prayer intentions at mass includes the names on the lists here following. To update the list please inform the pastor. in our parish: Emilie Ricknell, John Ricknell, Linda Rowe, Mary Hamilton, Emmy Wear, Sue Murphy, Don Murphy, Joyce Long, Dick Melchin, DeAnne Anderson, Bea Harris, Allan Kraklow and also: Anna Rutowicz [granddaughter of Harrises] Jodi Rutowicz [daughter of Harrises] Julie Ross [Svetlana Meaker’s daughter] 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 Jesse Armstrong Michael Nelson Brandt and Oneda Hendrickson [Ricknells’ relatives] Linda Anderson Teresa Robertson [Carol Eckardt’s niece] Everly Stoner [relative of Murphys] Sarah Corzine Helen Woods [Sue Murphy’s sister] Jamie Knapp, Emmy Wear’s cousin, who has cancer Janice Hart [Judy Thompson’s sister] Caleb Cleaver [Ricknells’ grandson] in the military: John Eckardt Donny Appleman [at request of the Ricknells] Richard Heiden [at request of the Eckardts] 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: any unborn children in danger of abortion those suffering from unrest, persecution, and imprisonment in Iraq, Syria, Sudan, Nigeria, China, North Korea, and elsewhere Details on Persecution: China demolishes hundreds of churches and confiscates Bibles during a crackdown on Christianity Locals in Henan stated concerns of a move by the atheist ruling community party to control Christianity. Residents were asked to replace posters of the cross and Jesus Christ with portraits of President Xi Jinping. Experts say the government is waging the most severe systematic suppression of the religion since 1982. Chinese leaders have 'always been suspicious of the political threat' that Christianity poses to the regime - by Associated Press and Kelsey Cheng for Mailonline August 2018 Concerns have been raised over China's apparent crackdown on Christianity as the ruling community party continues to intensify its control over religious freedom in the country. Churches were raided and demolished, Bibles and holy books were confiscated and new laws were established to monitor religious activities in the country's province of Henan, which has one of the largest Christian populations in China. Under President Xi Jinping, China's most powerful leader since Mao Zedong, believers are seeing their freedoms shrink dramatically even as the country undergoes a religious revival. Experts and activists say that as Xi consolidates his power, he is waging the most severe systematic suppression of Christianity in the country since religious freedom was written into the Chinese constitution in 1982. A DOZEN CHRISTIAN VILLAGES IN NIGERIA WIPED OUT IN FOUR-DAY KILLING SPREE June 29, 2018 by Lindy Lowry in Africa, Stories of Persecution Most of the victims were in their homes sleeping when the attacks began … when Muslim Fulani militant herdsmen began their killing spree in Nigeria that lasted four days, Thursday through Sunday evening and into Monday. The Fulani are a large ethnic group in West Africa. A third of all Fulani people are pastoralists, making them the largest nomadic community in the world. In only days, a dozen villages in Nigeria’s plateau state were wiped out. The affected communities surround the city of Ios—known as the epicenter of Christianity in northern Nigeria’s middle belt. As many as 200 Christians had been killed, however, some residents fear the death toll may be even higher, as more bodies are yet to be recovered, while others were burned beyond recognition. On Sunday, 75 of the victims were buried in a mass grave. We are still gathering information about the violence, but the details we have so far reveal the scale and brutality of the attacks: 120 people who were attending the funerals of an elderly member were hacked to death as they returned home. In another attack, in Gana Ropp Village, a pastor, Rev. Musa Choji, was killed, as were his wife and son. In Gidin Akwati, the whole community was burned down. Local sources say that some of those displaced are still hiding in the bush, as they haven’t yet been able to find their way to a safe haven. A pastor with the evangelical church Winning All (ECWA) denomination, who wanted to remain anonymous for security reasons, said that following an attack on Saturday, his entire village was reduced to ashes, and more than 100 people lost their lives.The ECWA pastor said more than 50 heavily armed Fulani herdsmen surrounded the village of Nghar, at around 3:30 a.m. They burned down all the houses, as well as two churches. Only a few people were able to escape. His wife’s family was decimated. The assailants killed 14 members of her family, including her mother and sister. Others who had come to visit them were also killed. In total, 27 people lost their lives in the same house. They were all burned to death. Only one person—his wife’s younger brother—survived, as he managed to escape through the roof. World watch monitor reports that on the day of the attack in Nghar, only two soldiers and one policeman were in the village, but they reportedly ran for their lives when the herdsmen launched their attack. Reportedly, the violence in the attacked areas has been happening for the last two weeks. Over the weekend, the violence reached a peak. Pastor Steve Kwol, chairman of the Pentecostal federation of Nigeria for plateau north, which includes the attacked areas, said that herdsmen were ambushing people going to their farms or traveling on their motorbikes. Since Thursday, the herdsmen had launched “very serious attacks” on the whole communities, he said. Despite the current dusk-to-dawn curfew and the presence of military, the attacks are still ongoing, he says. Two villages—Kwi and Dorowa—were badly damaged on Monday. In Dorowa, most of the properties were burned down, including four church buildings. The adjoining buildings, such as pastors’ houses, were also destroyed by fire. In Kwi, a number of buildings, including churches, were also set on fire. The exact number of people killed there is not yet known, but many were displaced and are now living in camps in neighboring villages. “We’ve been living peacefully with [Fulani herdsmen]” pastor Kwol said. “since this crisis started in Plateau in recent months, our people have not killed one Fulani man. Instead, they have been killing our people one by one. We just buried them and carried on.” He said. As a result of the ongoing insecurity, there are places where people can no longer go to farm,” he said, “because when they go, the Fulani will come and take their cows, or attack them.” The attacks have some local sources saying that the ongoing violence is part of a “grand plan to Islamize Nigeria. . . . The killings are becoming no longer herder and farmer clashes” but a “deliberate attempt to conquer and occupy the land of the people’s ancestral heritage,” said Dr. Soja Bewarang, who also denounced the attack on a Bible school that trained African missionaries in Gana-Ropp village. Reverend Gideon Para-Mallam, of the international fellowship of evangelical students in Jos and founder of the citizens monitoring group working with Christians and Muslims in Nigeria, notes that the violence is part of a pattern, an emerging agenda, saying that it is “another Boko Haram, in disguise.” The same Fulani people who have been living in peace with farmers suddenly have changed from using sticks to tend their cows, all of a sudden going to the farmlands, killing Christian farmers. Their wives and children, surrounding whole villages. It’s a pointer … because Plateau state is the epicenter of Christianity." 6/18/2018 July and August 2018St. Paul’s Evangelical-Lutheran Church
109 S. Elm, Kewanee, Illinois 61443 Newsletter Volume 30 July - August 2018 No. 7-8 The Church As every good Lutheran should know, there is only one Christian church on earth, as we confess in the Apostles’ Creed: “I believe in the Holy Christian Church.” Jesus said, “I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it” (St. Matthew 16). What became problematic early on, in the church’s history, was the rise of false confessions, false teachers, and the need to confess that the church’s faith does not correspond to these. Hence the question arose: How can I know whether I am in the true Christian Church? For ever since the first century, there has been falsehood contending with the truth, as even the hymnist puts it: “Though there be those that hate her, false sons within her pale; Against both foe and traitor She ever shall prevail.” Many have thought, and still think, that the true church can only be known by succession of the apostolic line. Tracing the popes through the centuries beginning with St. Peter, the church of Rome claims this apostolic succession; the Orthodox church does as well, by tracing its line through Constantinople. The Lutheran confessors, and Luther himself, easily poked holes in this idea by showing how councils and popes can and do err. There is no guarantee that any successor to the apostles is a guarantor of infallibly; no such promise from our Lord can be found. What can be found from our Lord, however, is a prayer that his Father would keep his apostles themselves in the truth: “I have given them thy word; and the world hath hated them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil. They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth. As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world” (St. John 17:14-18). Thus we have as our only touchstone the apostolic Scriptures: the Bible. All of the church’s teachings must come from it and be judged by it. And by this token, however, we learn to know whether or not we have found the church. It is where the word of God is taught in its truth and purity. It is where the truth of Christ is proclaimed, and nowhere else. The sheep know the Shepherd by his voice. If the truth is mingled with some falsehood, as is often the case, we may see the church there dimly, as it were, and this is where we distinguish Christian denominations from religious bodies that are not Christian at all. What every Christian should seek, however, is purity of doctrine, the Gospel in its sublime beauty. Here we have a little parish in Kewanee where, by no strength of man, but by grace alone, the word of God does sound forth purely. This gift ought never be taken lightly. Pray for the church in this place; pray for me, that I may be a faithful steward of the gifts of God. For we do not exist as the church in this place except by his gift of the word and its attendant Sacraments. + Pastor Eckardt June 24 Annual Church Picnic to be at Kraklows’ The annual church picnic is to be held, God willing, at the home of Allan and Barb Kraklow south of Toulon this year. The date is our traditional last Sunday in June, which this year will be June 24th, as soon after church as you can arrive. As usual, it’s a potluck, and bring your own table service. Jazz on the Side at Wiley Park in Galva, June 24th, late afternoon The Levitt AMP Galva Music Series will transform Wiley Park’s large underused lawn into a dynamic community hub for friends, families and neighbors to come together to enjoy a wide range of music genres, positioning Wiley Park to be a point of local pride that invigorates the local community and its surrounding areas. The headliners are the Sones de Mexico Ensemble at 7 pm, but among the local artists performing earlier will be Kewanee’s own Jazz on the Side, beginning at 4:30. Pastor is at the keyboard for the band. NOTICE: Elders and Altar Guild moved to June 26th The first Tuesday of July is the day before Independence Day, which may be problematic for some, so there is a change in schedule, since the regular June meeting was cancelled. ELDERS AND ALTAR GUILD IS NOW SCHEDULED FOR TUESDAY, JUNE 26TH. No meeting in July. Altar Guild at 6 p.m., Vespers at 6:45; Elders at 7:15. Ephesians on Tuesdays: suspended during July Our Tuesday Ephesians class is on the schedule for the remainder of June, but due to the checkerboard calendar of July, it is being suspended for the entire month of July. We will resume on August 7th. July Ushers: Grant Andresen, Larry Campbell, Jim HornbackAugust Ushers: Otis Anderson, John Ricknell, Bill Thompson (Jim Hornback in reserve) Catechesis to Resume in August Saturday catechesis is set to resume the second Saturday in August, which is August 11th, at 9 a.m. Altar Guild News Wednesday masses cancelled July 4th, 11th, and 25th. The only Wednesday mass in July is on the 18th. Wednesday masses scheduled throughout August. Color is white for August 1th (Dormition B.V.M.) and red for August 29th (Martyrdom of St. John the Baptist). Color is Green throughout all Sundays in July and August. July, August Anniversaries July: 7/1/1951 John and Emilie Ricknell August: 8/1/2009 Chris and Trista Dooley July and August Birthdays July: 7/2 Dana McReynolds 7/4 Sarah Kraklow 7/5 Sandra Verplaetse 7/7 Stephen Harris 7/9 Michelle Armstrong 7/10 Otis Anderson 7/10 Dale Baker 7/13 Gayle Beauprez 7/14 Pastor Eckardt August: 8/2 Joyce Long 8/9 Donald Kegebein 8/11 Sam Fisher 8/11 Judy Thompson 8/13 Donald Murphy 8/16 Trista Dooley 8/17 Steven Peart 8/21 John Sovanski 8/24 Becky Russell Shut ins Mary Hamilton at home; Emmy Wear at Williamsfield Home in Williamsfield; Emilie Ricknell at home; Dick Melchin at Hammond-Henry extended care in Geneseo; Joyce Long briefly at her daughter Linda Jacobs’ house, then hoping to return home soon. Vacationing We have plans to take our summer vacation in Northern Wisconsin again this July, from the 21st to the 28th. As usual when I am away, there will be no mass on Wednesday the 25th. Pastor Mike Bahr from Springfield will again be here to fill in on July 22nd. + Pastor 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, Bea Harris, Dick Melchin, DeAnne Anderson, Svetlana Meaker 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 and Oneda Hendrickson [Ricknells’ relatives] Bob Laskey [friend of Monroe Kemerling] Linda Anderson Teresa Robertson [Carol Eckardt’s niece] Everly Stoner [relative of Murphys] Sarah Corzine 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. CID Convention The 59th Convention of the Central Illinois District of the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod will be held at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Springfield, Illinois, on July 8-10, 2018. Your lay delegate is Steve Harris, who will attend, if able, with Pastor. The convention registrations are from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm on Sunday, July 8th, and the convention ssessions begin at 7:00 am on Monday, July 9th and conclude on Wednesday at midday. Some details about the prayer list · The homosexual prime minister of Ireland has stated that all Catholic hospitals must perform abortions. Doctors, nurses, attendants must have the courage and faith to say no, whatever the consequences. Lord, have mercy. · North Korea has reportedly begun opening its borders to Christians. Thanks be to God. St. Paul’s Ev. Lutheran Church 109 S. Elm Street Kewanee, IL 61443 5/24/2018 June 2018St. Paul’s Evangelical-Lutheran Church
109 S. Elm, Kewanee, Illinois 61443 Newsletter Volume 29 June 2018 No. 6 The Holy Trinity What the Doctrine of the Catholic Faith is Concerning the Trinity. "All those catholic expounders of the divine Scriptures, both Old and New, whom I have been able to read, who have written before me concerning the Trinity, who is God, have purposed to teach, according to the Scriptures, this doctrine, that the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit intimate a divine unity of one and the same substance in an indivisible equality; and therefore that they are not three Gods, but one God: although the Father has begotten the Son, and so He who is the Father is not the Son; and the Son is begotten by the Father, and so He who is the Son is not the Father; and the Holy Spirit is neither the Father nor the Son, but only the Spirit of the Father and of the Son, Himself also co-equal with the Father and the Son, and pertaining to the unity of the Trinity. "Yet not that this Trinity was born of the Virgin Mary, and crucified under Pontius Pilate, and buried, and rose again the third day, and ascended into heaven, but only the Son. "Nor, again, that this Trinity descended in the form of a dove upon Jesus when He was baptized; nor that, on the day of Pentecost, after the ascension of the Lord, when there came a sound from heaven, as of a rushing mighty wind, the same Trinity sat upon each of them with cloven tongues like as of fire, but only the Holy Spirit. "Nor yet that this Trinity said from heaven, Thou art my Son, whether when He was baptized by John, or when the three disciples were with Him in the mount, or when the voice sounded, saying, I have both glorified it, and will glorify it again; but that it was a word of the Father only, spoken to the Son. "Yet the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit, as they are indivisible, so work indivisibly. This is also my faith, since it is the catholic faith." -- St. Augustine (ad 354-430), On the Trinity, Chapter 4 Note: St. Augustine here, and customarily, refers to the faith of the Christian Church as the catholic faith. This is because, as the word itself means, it is the faith of the whole Christian Church. It is for this same reason that we declare in saying the Athanasian Creed (on Trinity Sunday) that what we are confessing is “the catholic faith, which, except a man believe faithfully and firmly, he cannot be saved.” + Pastor Eckardt Renovation News: Assembly Votes to Remove Canopy; Plans for Chancel Proceeding On May 6th the voters elected to remove the canopy over the altar. We are planning to set up scaffolding to do this and to proceed with plaster repair and painting very soon. The Church Council on May 16th discussed a proposal for our chancel from Andrew Hattermann We have also heard from Andrew Hatterman, of Murals by Jericho in Peoria, who had a proposal for us. All agreed that although it was quite beautiful, including a new altar and altarpiece, as well as canvas artwork and design for the walls, the cost is prohibitive. We are in no position to spend tens of thousands of dollars, so the matter of whether or not to do something like this seems to have been decided for us. Therefore, there is no need for additional voters’ action at this time because the Council is not recommending the proposal. At present we are looking instead to finish the work we began without making any changes to our current altar or cross. The funds we have can be used to pay Bob Harrison for plaster and painting, and possibly to install new chancel flooring and nave carpeting. We are in the process of considering paint colors and shades that would best work to complement the rest of the church as well as to highlight the importance of the altar and chancel. We also hope to restore the two capitals that were removed in the 1960s in the chancel. The capitals are the ornamented basses of the ceiling ribs that may also be seen throughout the nave. We may even build in columns at the two angled corners against the front wall, provided it is not too difficult. If things go as planned, we would temporarily move the altar forward so as to put up scaffolding behind it. We would remain in the church for worship, but the appearance of the chancel wall would be a work in progress. Pastor Completes New Book: Leave It Alone. You’ll Break It. Liturgical Observations. For months I have been chipping away, little by little, at a project that has finally come to completion, a collection of Liturgical Observer columns I have written for Gottesdienst over the past 21 years, now under a single cover, entitled Leave It Alone. You’ll Break It. Liturgical Observations. This is another Gottesdienst book, retailing for $33.98, but it may be discount ordered at the printing house (www.lulu.com) for a 25% discount, bringing the price down to $25.49. But for an even lower cost, you can purchase one at St. Paul’s for just $20.00. All the proceeds will go to Gottesdienst, which is the liturgical quarterly owned by this congregation and having subscribers all across the country (and even abroad). Some of the things I noted years ago are just as worth noting again today, some ten or twenty years later. So here they are, observations from across the years, all of which have aimed, however inadequately, at supporting the Church and her historic liturgy. The book is available for purchase, and a display is set up in the gym. + Pastor Eckardt Picnic to be Last Sunday in June, Place TBA The annual church picnic is to be held, God willing, on Sunday, June 24th, our traditional last Sunday in June, but the place has yet to be determined. Time will be as soon after church and Bible Class as you can arrive. As usual, it’s a potluck, and bring your own table service. June Birthdays: 6/5 Linda Rowe 6/15 Jill Powers 6/16 Berniece Harris 6/29 Jim Watson June Ushers: Allan Kraklow, Steve Kraklow, Tom Wells. June Anniversaries: 6/17/1967 Robert and Mary Beth Jones 6/18/1960 Sandra and John Verplaetse 6/18/1977 Fr. Burnell and Carol Eckardt 6/18/1966 Don and Sue Murphy 6/19/1977 Dana and Carol McReynolds 6/19/1966 William and Judy Thompson 6/27/1981 Steve and Gail Peart Pastor’s Travel Plans in June Pastor and Carol have planned a number of short trips in June. First, Pastor and Carol will be leaving town on Tuesday, June 5th to visit Carol’s father in Florida, returning Saturday, June 9th. Therefore, per our usual custom there will be no mass on Wednesday night. Second is a brief trip to Galena to see the hot-air balloon festival, June 15th-16th. Former members Jude and Scott Clapper will be joining us there. No worship schedule is affected. Third is the annual Concordia Catechetical Academy symposium in the Milwaukee area from June 20th to the 22nd. This is always a worthwhile event for pastors and laity. If you are interested, see the note on page 4. On Wednesday the 20th there will be no midweek activities. 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 studying Ephesians. Join us for a lively conversation. Always Remember Saturdays Every Saturday the church needs a crew of volunteers to help with cleaning, yard work, mowing, etc. If we get a nice group, we even like to enjoy a coffee break and lunch together sometimes. Join us if you can; the help is always welcome, and the more, the merrier. We are always thankful for the volunteer spirit of our members, who put in so much of their time and treasure to help maintain the vibrancy of this little congregation. 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, Svetlana Meaker 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] 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 Altar Guild, Elders 2nd Tuesday The usual first Tuesday meetings for June are moved to the second Tuesday this month: June 12th. 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. Our special spring cleaning day was no exception. Answering the call for special volunteer help on May 19th (and earlier that week) we had some 18 volunteers who worked feverishly to accomplish many needed items:
The weather cooperated and enabled us to go to the Eckardts’ backyard garden for a hot dog roast Carol had set up. The dedication of our membership is a testimony to the grace of God that has given his people thankful hearts and a willingness to keep this church in good order. 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 Shut ins Mary Hamilton at home Joyce Long at home Emilie Ricknell at home Dick Melchin at Hammond-Henry extended care in Geneseo. Emmy Wear at Williamsfield retirement home Welcome Home, Mary After a convalescence of several months at her son’s home in Fort Wayne, Indiana, Mary Hamilton has returned home again. Welcome back! Recruiting for Catechesis Catechesis concluded on March 17th; we now look forward toward the recruitment of new members. Do you know someone? A family member or co-worker, perhaps? The schedule is flexible for any adult who has interest. The best way to pick up new members is by personal invitation coming from you! That is, our members are our best resources when it comes to bringing new members in. Be sure to pick up a tract or two from the rack in the hallway to have available. Church Council Moved to 2nd Wednesday The Council meeting is moved to the 2nd Wednesday this month (June 13th), due to Pastor’s travel plans. Illinois Family Institute I recommend the Illinois Family Institute our members. It provides educational materials and is a strong advocate promoting the family, marriage, and pro-life causes in the State of Illinois. I will be making their occasional newsletter available in the narthex. You can check out their web site at www.illinoisfamily.org. -Pastor The Lighter Side An Alternative Medical Dictionary
St. Paul’s Ev. Lutheran Church 109 S. Elm Street Kewanee, IL 61443 |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. Archives
July 2019
Categories |
Search by typing & pressing enter
RSS Feed
