GEMEINDEBRIEF®
 “I am the vine, and you are the branches!”
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35.JAHRGANG / VOLUME 35   NO. 03  March 2008

Internet Version

1980 - Present

Paul D. Gutmann
Website Online Publisher

 “Join Us
on Our Journey thru Holy Week “

1930 - 1980

Ati Campbell,
Monthly News Editor

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ST. PETER’S
LUTHERAN CHURCH
11423 Chicago Road
Warren, Michigan
48093
586-979-3850

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Explore The Events Of Our Lord

As you may know, Jesus went into the wilderness and fasted for forty days to prepare for his ministry.  It was for Him a time of contemplation, reflection, and preparation.  By observing Lent, most Christians join Jesus on His retreat.

Lent consists of the forty days before Easter. In the western Church, we skip over the Sundays when we count the days of Lent, because Sunday is always the joyful celebration of the Resurrection. Therefore, the first day of Lent in the western Churches is always a Wednesday, however not most of the European protestant churches.

During Lent, ancient Christians mourned their sins and repented of them, so it was appropriate for them to show their sincerity by having ashes on their foreheads. The custom has persisted in the church as secular society has changed around us.  It is most appropriate on Ash Wednesday, when we begin a period of sober reflection, self-examination, and spiritual redirection.

Traditionally, the ashes for the Ash Wednesday service come from burning the palm fronds from the previous year’s Palm Sunday celebration.
  

What is Easter? 
Easter is the sacred celebration of Christ's resurrection from the dead.  It is the oldest and holiest Christian festival, the climax and center of the liturgical year, and the holy day to which all other holy days point.  Even denominations that do not strictly follow a liturgical calendar commemorate Easter with tremendous joy and thanksgiving. 

What is Holy Week?  
The last week of Lent is known as Holy Week.  During this holiest time of the liturgical year, the church relives the final week of our Lord's life. The high points of this week are Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and the Great Vigil of Easter.

Palm Sunday?  
Holy Week begins with Palm Sunday, the Sunday before Easter.  On this day, Jesus, accompanied by His disciples, entered the city of Jerusalem in triumph.  An enthusiastic crowd greeted Jesus by spreading palm branches along the road and shouting Hosanna, a Hebrew expression meaning "save us."  The mass of people hailed Jesus as the "Son of David," the Messiah promised long ago by God.  Services on Palm Sunday traditionally begin with a joyful procession into the sanctuary.  Worshipers often carry palm leaves or wear crosses made of palm.

Maundy Thursday? (Holy Thursday in some Churches)
 The first part of the Triduum begins on the evening of Maundy Thursday (also called Holy Thursday), during which Christians recall the events that took place the night Jesus was betrayed.  The Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke concentrate on the institution of the Lord's Supper.   The word "Maundy" is derived from the Latin phrase mandatum novum, meaning "new commandment."   It refers to the Lord's words to His apostles as recorded in John 13:34:  "A new command I give you: love one another".
Good Friday?   
 Good Friday, the second day of the Triduum, is the solemn remembrance of Jesus' death on the cross.  The name "Good Friday" is a corruption of "God's Friday," although the term is a very fitting one since the Lord's death was for our eternal good.  Good Friday worship is marked by austerity and silence.  The music of keyboards and instruments is minimized and sometimes even eliminated.  The altar, stripped of all appointments, is not used.  Instead, one or more lecterns or reading desks serve as the focal point of the service. 

What is the Great Vigil of Easter? 
The third and final day of the Triduum is Holy Saturday, known from antiquity as the Great Vigil.  Although this service was for centuries the most important festival of the liturgical year, it fell into disuse in some traditions.  Thankfully, it is now being rediscovered by more and more churches.

Easter Sunday?    
Easter is the sacred celebration of Christ's resurrection from the dead.  It is the oldest and holiest Christian festival, the climax and center of the liturgical year, and the holy day to which all other holy days point.  Even denominations that do not strictly follow a liturgical calendar commemorate Easter with tremendous joy.

Get more information about Lent.

  

Views From the ELCA News Room

ELCA NEWS SERVICE - March 2008

NEW! Stories of Faith in Action

Stories of Faith in Action 2008 is a print resource that explains who we are as the ELCA, what we do in ministry together, and how we fund our ministries. It contains short stories about ELCA ministries made possible through mission support given to this church. Each may also be downloaded in bulletin-insert format, and there's a crossword puzzle about the contents online as well. Experience the amazing variety of ministries in the ELCA with this new resource!

Lutheran Chaplains in the Military

ELCA Archives has a new online exhibit called "By Their Side: Lutheran Chaplains in the Military," telling the fascinating story of this decades-old inter-Lutheran endeavor of providing much-needed spiritual ministry to military personnel, especially in times of conflict. The current ELCA Bureau for Federal Chaplaincy Ministries has as its mission, "To support the chaplaincies of the church in federal agencies, institutions, and armed forces, and to provide for the pastoral care of those called to these ministries."

 

Click Here for more information!       Peter W. Marty
       Tim Wise – Insulating Your Attic
Click above for more information                          Galatians 3:28 culée Ilibagiza 
                       
Racism can be a tough thing to get our hands around, especially when the majority white culture struggles to even recognize the many unspoken privileges it enjoys. What does it mean to be born into privilege – not economic wealth, but all of the other perks and comforts that go with unseen advantages of being born white? Tim Wise, an author and anti-racism activist has a sharp mind for thinking creatively about this question. Host Peter Marty reflects on a Biblical word about our tendency to draw distinctions between people.

Come, Worship with Us

        March   2008 

         4th Sunday in Lent - March 2nd      
                Samuel 16:1-13; Ephesians 5:8-14
                                Gospel: John 9:1-41
                             Sermon:
  “The answers to a troubling question”
               Installation of Church Council

   9:30 AM English Holy Communion
   9:30 AM Sunday School
 11:00 AM German Holy Communion  
                             Kirchenchor

       5th Sunday in Lent - March 9th      
                     Ezekiel 37:1-14; Romans 8:6-11
                              Gospel: John 11:1-45
                             Sermon:
      “Can Jesus heal people today?”

   9:30 AM English Holy Communion
                           Bell Choir
   9:30 AM Sunday School
 11:00 AM German Holy Communion
                           Bell Choir

          PALM SUNDAY - March 16th     
                Isaiah 50:4-9a; Philippians 2:5-11
                       Gospel: Matthew 26:1-27:66
                             Sermon:
        “What is God’s Will for us?”
              
   9:30 AM English Holy Communion
   9:30 AM Sunday School
 11:00 AM German Holy Communion
                           Kirchenchor

      EASTER  SUNDAY - March 23rd     
                Acts 10:34-43: Colossians 2: 1-4
                       Gospel: Mark 16: 1-8
                             Sermon:
“The Gospel According To Hollywood?”
              
   9:30 AM English Holy Communion
                           Bell Choir
   9:30 AM Sunday School
 11:00 AM German Holy Communion
                           Bell Choir                            

         Other Important Days of March
          
                          Wednesday
                             in Holy Week
                              March 19, 2008

                           Joseph, Guardian
                                 of Jesus
                            March 19, 2008

                       Annunciation
                              of Our Lord
                           March 25, 2008

                                  
                   

 "ALL ARE WELCOME TO COME"
           SHARE WITH US

     2nd Sunday Easter - March 30th    
 Acts 2: 14a, 22-32; 1 Peter 1: 3-9
Gospel: John 20: 19-31
Sermon:
 “How Much Proof Do We Need”

      9:30 AM English Holy Communion
      9:30 AM Sunday School
    11:00 AM German Holy Communion
                             

"For God So Loved The World"
 Everyone Is Invited To Participate!

LENTEN MIDWEEK SERVICES
Every Thursday at 7:00 PM


 March  6th
 March 13th

  

   MAUNDY THURSDAY March 20th   
 Ezekiel 37:1-14; Romans 8:6-11
Gospel: John 11:1-45
Sermon:
“A Wonderful Gift Distorted by Man”
   7:00 PM Service

  

    GOOD FRIDAY March 21st    
 Isaiah 52: 13-52:12 Hebrews 4:14-16; 5: 7-9
Gospel: John 18:1-29:42
Sermon:
“Why Did Jesus Have To Die”

12:00 PM Noon German    
 7:00 PM English Service

  We are inviting everyone to
  consider purchasing one or more
  Easter lilies ($10.00 per plant) for
  use in our chancel area on Easter
  Day. You may pick up your plant(s)
  after 12:00 Noon on
  Easter Sunday.

Osterliliien können jetzt für $10.00 für Ostersonntag bestellt werden um unsere Kirche für Ostern zu schmücken. Die Blumen können nach 12 Uhr
Mittags am Ostersonntag wieder 
mitgenommen.

“Come as a Guest Leave
  as a Friend!”

Pastors    Letter and Notes


Dear Members
and Friends
of St. Peter’s,

On the First of February I started working as the new pastor of this wonderful congregation. We were able to move into a house, that was wonderfully prepared for our arrival and since then I have met quite a few of your gracious people. Thanks for all the kind support. I will do my best with God’s and your help to minister to the people of St. Peter’s. Please call me any time, if you have a wish, suggestion or complaint. I love to hear from you! Hoping for your support and input, I want to start a few things (again) at our church. Today I like to point out three to you already. More programs will follow as I get more settled in the ministry at St. Peter’s:

  • Brat Tuesday: every first Tuesday of the month, starting in April, St. Peter’s will offer Bratwurst and an hour of fellowship. Look for more details in this newsletter.
     

  •  Committees: we will start the Stewardship and the Youth committees again. Meetings are scheduled for this month. See the calendar for dates.
     

  • Bible Study: we discuss the book of Job, meetings are being held every other Monday at 7 p.m. Please come and join us!

Holy week is coming up and for me it is the most important week of the year concerning the faith in the Lord, Jesus Christ. In this one week from Palm Sunday till Easter Sunday we go along with our savior on a journey that reflects in many ways our own life: we start into the Holy week with a moment of glory on Palm Sunday. What a great time in his life, when everyone praised Jesus upon this arrival in Jerusalem. Yet, as it is with great moments in life, they don’t last very long.

On Maundy Thursday, Jesus lives through a variety of common feelings with his disciples: community and friendship, anger and disappointment, loneliness and fear. Even more fear, pain and suffering was to come on the next day. Now this is interesting: in Germany we call the day of Jesus being crucified “Karfreitag”, meaning it is a day of weeping and mourning. In the English however, we call it “Good Friday”. I actually think that both are accurate titles for that day: Mourning has its place on that day as we are aware of the terrible suffering Jesus had to endure on the cross. But also it is a “good” day as we are saved from our sins through this suffering.

Easter Sunday is the day to celebrate life! Christ is risen and the promise is out there for us, that we too can have a meaningful life in Christ on earth and everlasting life in Him also after we have to leave our earthly body.

So, please join the church services
during the Holy week!
Yours in Christ,
Pastor

IN CASE OF
BAD WEATHER

This Winter we have had a few days of very bad weather where church services had to be cancelled.

PLEASE, before you venture out into the bad weather to come to church, call either:

Fritz M. 586-776-5668 -or- 
 To find out if services have been cancelled.

Thank you.

St. Peters Lutheran Church
Warren, Michigan

IMAGES OF THE SEASON
copyright 2008 Augsburg Fortress.
Used by permission of Augsburg Fortress.

In the Western church, Ash Wednesday is the first day of Lent and the seventh Wednesday before Easter. Its name comes from the practice of placing ashes on the foreheads of worshipers to symbolize death and sorrow for sin. In the Orthodox church, Lent begins on a Monday rather than on Ash Wednesday. Ash Wednesday marks the onset of the Lent, the 40-day period of fasting and abstinence. It is also known as the 'Day of Ashes'. So called because on that day at church the faithful have their foreheads marked with ashes in the shape of a cross.

The name 'Day of Ashes' comes from "Dies Cinerum" in the Roman Missal and is found in the earliest existing copies of the Gregorian Sacramentary. The concept originated by the Roman Catholics somewhere in the 6th century. Though the exact origin of the day is not clear, the custom of marking the head with ashes on this Day is said to have originated during the papacy of Gregory the Great (590-604).

In the Old Testament ashes were found to have used for two purposes: as a sign of humilityand mortality; and as a sign of sorrow and repentance for sin. The Christian connotation for ashes in the liturgy of Ash Wednesday has also been taken from this Old Testament biblical custom. Receiving ashes on the head as a reminder of mortality and a sign of sorrow for sin was a practice of the Anglo-Saxon church in the 10th century. It was made universal throughout the Western church at the Synod of Benevento in 1091.

Originally the use of ashes to betoken penance was a matter of private devotion. Later it became part of the official rite for reconciling public penitents. In this context, ashes on the penitent served as a motive for fellow Christians to pray for the returning sinner and to feel sympathy for him. Still later, the use of ashes passed into its present rite of beginning the penitential season of Lent on Ash Wednesday.

There can be no doubt that the custom of distributing the ashes to all the faithful arose from a devotional imitation of the practice observed in the case of public penitents. But this devotional usage, the reception of a sacramental which is full of the symbolism of penance is of earlier date than was formerly supposed. It is mentioned as of general observance for both clerics and faithful in the Synod of Beneventum, 1091 (Mansi, XX, 739), but nearly a hundred years earlier than this the Anglo-Saxon homilist Ælfric assumes that it applies to all classes of men.

Assured of God's steadfastness, we are invited into the visions of what this resurrection faith looks like. Peter's dream vision expanded his view of salvation to include the Gentiles, an unthinkable option before the resurrection. All people and all creation praise God's goodness in this new world--it is truly a new heaven and a new earth, a place where death will be no more and the spring of the water of life flows freely for all. Jesus offered the new commandment at the last supper: "Love one another." This will be the mark of our new identity, that we love one another.

The visions play out even more in the following weeks. Paul is drawn to Macedonia and the faith of Lydia, ever farther from the temporal city of Jerusalem. The new Jerusalem, though, is filled with God. No temple is needed, nor sun, nor moon. From the throne flows the river of the water of life, which nourishes the tree of life, whose leaves are for the healing of the nations.

This vision is what the resurrection has broken open for us. Our thirst for wholeness and holiness is slaked in this river. Our need for cleansing is satisfied in this river. From this river of life flows the baptismal water that has made each of us, and all of creation, God's chosen. Ours is not a God of modest means, but one of poignant purpose. God's power is for the sake of the well-being of all of God's creatures. Anyone who wishes may take the water of life.

In the season of Easter, we are called beyond our fears and confusion and into the light of day. We are offered a vision of the power of God's abundant, steadfast, and irrepressible love. We see a God who is truly the beginning and the end, calling us to live in love and unity with each other in a world made radically new by the resurrection of Jesus. Death defeated, we can live lives of new possibility, fashion a world of peace and hope, and cherish each other as the gifts we are.

Reprinted from Words for Worship, copyright 2008
Augsburg Fortress.

Lent gives each of us the opportunity to:
 Renew our commitment to God,
Reflect on our lives and let them be directed by God, 
 Respond to Jesus’ call for love and mercy toward all God’s children.

             Lent helps us prepare for the 
         Resurrection of  Jesus on Easter!

1st Full Week of Lent:  February 10th
 Read the Bible more Reduce noise in your life - reflect on how unwanted sounds distract you. Think of ways to increase the quiet in your home: (by turning off the TV, for example.

 a Say a special prayer each day during Lent
 a Examine your goals. Do they reflect your faith?
 a Invite a friend to attend church services with you.
 a Reflect on Jesus’ 40 days in the wilderness.
 a Say something extra nice to meet you meet:

2nd Full Week of Lent:  February 17th
A Life of Fasting—making do with less is a loving way to share God’s gifts with others. Prepare simple meals—eat more soups, stews and salads, and less meat and processed foods.
 a Instead of eating out, share more meals with
      family and friends.  
a Share your savings—use a simple basket or
      box as a bank for the money you saved by
      fasting. 
a Each week, donate your savings to your
      church’s hunger relief program.
 a Recycle more of your trash.
 a Invite a person who’s feeling lonely to share a
      meal with you.
a Do without a favorite food or beverage.
 a Clean out your closets and donate the items.

3rd Full Week of Lent:  February 24th
 A Life of Service to God - loving God means responding to the needs of others in your community and around the world.  Be a volunteer—ask your pastor how you can help with church projects:

a “Adopt” a new family member—invite a needy
      child, or a single or elderly person to share your
       Lenten activities.
 a Do a extra chore for a family member, neighbor
      or co-worker.
 a Learn more about social injustices, such as
      hunger and discrimination.
 a Visit someone who’s ill or confined to home
 a Spend more time with children.

4th Full Week of Lent:  March 2nd
A Life of Forgiveness—through forgiveness, you grow closer to God and others and bring peace to your life:
a Reflect on temptation. Only God is perfect. Keep
      your weaknesses in mind as you strive to resist
      temptation—and forgive others.
a Strive for peace. Learn more about local groups
      working for peace. Stress patience and
      compassion in personal conflicts.
 a Tell family and friends you love them.
 a Focus your thoughts and prayers on God’s
      forgiveness.
 a Call or write someone you’ve lost contact with.
 a Ask someone you’ve hurt for forgiveness.

5th Full Week of Lent:  March 9th
A Life of Faith—your faith in God is the foundation for trusting yourself and others and for renewing your life:
  a Share your Faith. Tell others about the Good
       News of Jesus Christ. Think about how you
       can spread the Gospel in your community.
   a Improve a neglected talent. Set aside some 
       time to paint, do woodworking, etc. exchange
       skills: teach others a skill in exchange for.

a Their teaching you one.
a Reflect on people who’ve trusted you and those
      whom you’ve trusted.
a Pray for God to strengthen your faith.
a Let a child or friend plan all your activities for
      a day.
 a Take a nature walk and look for signs of new life.

Holy Week:  March 16th - 20th
 Focus on Jesus’ everlasting love as you commemorate the events leading up to the Resurrection.  Set aside extra quiet time. Use the time for prayer and Bible reading.
a  Reflect on the meaning of Lenten symbols
      (for example, the lamb that represents Jesus’
      sacrifice).
a Read about Jesus’ last days. Discuss these
      readings with family and friends: Matthew 21-27;
      Mark 11-15; Luke 19:28-48; 20-23; John 12-19.
a Attend church services. Note the dates and times
      of Holy Week services not just Easter on your
      calendar. 
a Invite a new member of the church to go with you.
a Love and serve one another. On Maundy
     Thursday,
      Jesus washed the Apostle’s feet before the Last
      Supper as an example of how to show love
      through service. Then, he gave a new command-
      ment: “Love one another as I have loved you.”
a Send Easter cards or letters to family and friends.
 a Offer to help prepare your church for Easter
      services. Prepare your home for Easter. 
a Explain Easter symbols to children.
 a Reflect on Jesus’ sacrifice and how it affects
      your life.

EASTER SUNDAY: March 23rd
Your Lenten journey ends with Jesus’ Resurrection, giving you new hope—and new life.  The light of dawn serves as a vivid symbol of the risen Christ.

a Rejoice with family and friends. Share an Easter
      meal together. Give thanks and praise to God,
      using Easter hymns or prayers.
a Reflect on your Lenten journey. How have you
      strengthened your relationship with God? How 
      will you continue in the Lenten spirit after Easter?
a Read a Gospel account of Jesus’ resurrection
      aloud: Matthew 28; Mark 16; Luke 24:1-17;
      or John 20:1-23.
a Take part in church services. Join with your faith
      community to celebrate Christ’s victory over
      death—and the beginning of the new Easter
      season.
a Share God’s gift of love. Spend some time with
      people who are ill or confined to home. 
      Take them an Easter basket or lily.

 

Experience Lent and the true joy of Easter all year round!

 

      God Loved
              The World!

 

Sunday, March 23rd
9:30 AM Holy Communion
11:00 AM Heiliges Abendmahl

Outside
(weather permitting)
after the 9:30 AM Service
Coffee Hour
       After Both Services

 



DieTheater -
Arbeitsgemeinschaft

des Elsa-Brandström-Gymnasiums-Elmshorn, Schleswig-Holstein

German Theater Group

Coming
April 3rd - April 7th
Performance on April 4th
at 8:00 PM at Carpathia Hall

April 5th at 8:00 PM
St. Peter’s Church

This German group will perform a
German comedy from Heinrich v. Kleist,
“Der zerbrochene Krug”
Contact Pastor Jens for more information 586-979-3850

SENIOREN EASTER
CELEBRATION
Wednesday
March 12, 2008
Program and Lunch
$13.00 / adult

10:00 AM Lenten Service
11:00 AM Program

Sign up in the Narthex
Our Church Office at:
(586) 979-3850 
Everyone is Welcome



BRATWURST
TUESDAYS

April 1, 2008
6:00 PM

Topic
“Lutherans have no Humor"
Fact or fiction?”

Be prepared to bring
your favorite joke to share.

Sign up in the Narthex
Our Church Office at:
(586) 979-3850 
Everyone is Welcome

        Looking Ahead News and Views
 At St. Peters



LOOKING AHEAD

Here are a few dates
To keep in mind!

 March 9   German Networking Fair
  Carpathia Hall
 March 12
          10 AM
           11AM		  Seniorenkreis
 Lenten Service
 Easter Party
 March 13
       7:30 PM		  Group Starting Up
 Youth Committee 
 March 16
          12 PM 		 Group Starting Up
 Stewardship Committee
 April 1 
              7 PM 		 Something New This Year
 Bratwurst Tuesday  
 April 4
             8PM
 Elsa-Brändström Schule
 “Der zerbrochene Krug”
 Carpathia Hall
 April 5
             8PM
 		 Elsa-Brändström Schule
 “Der zerbrochene Krug”
 St. Peter’s Lutheran Church
 May 3- 4
       12- 3PM		  Supporting Moving Expenses!
 Church Bake Sale
 June 25
         11AM		  Seniorenkreis Picnic
      (All Are Welcome)

July
21- 25

  Vacation Bible School
      (All Are Welcome)

July 27

  Annual Church Picnic

   

 

 LEARNING LESSONS DO NOT END...
There is no part of life that does
not contain its lessons.
If you are alive, there are lessons
to be learned.

It is there for each and every one of you.

* * * * 



MARCH
BIRTHDAYS

 
Arthur A..    
Kyrsten S.  
Heinrich B.
Maria P.   
Eugene W.    
Larry K.
Lydia G.
Ernest W.
Regina W.
Walter H.
Anita W.

  4
  4
 10
10
10
15
25
26
26
27
27

   * * * * 

MARCH
ANNIVERSARIES


Mr & Mrs Jurgen Ludeking    Mar. 7th 
Mr & Mrs Gordon Koivu        Mar. 20th

If you would like a visit from the Pastor for your anniversary or a small devotion during Sunday Service, please contact the office 586-979-3850.

Remember, to say,  "I love you"  to your partner
and your loved ones, but most of all mean it.
A kiss and an embrace will mend hurt when
it comes from deep inside of you. Remember
to hold hands and cherish the moment .

Give time to love, give time to speak, and give
 time to share the precious thoughts in your mind.
 Webmaster Copyright 2001® 

NEW COMMITTEES BEING FORMED

March 16th @ 12:00
Stewardship Committee

March 13th @ 7:30
 Youth Committee

These are two very important committees that every church needs.

The Stewardship Committee sets realistic and achievable financial goals for the church. It contacts all members regarding their commitment to St. Peter’s in all areas of church life.

The Youth Committee fosters and manages youth activities from Sunday School, Confirmation classes, Vacation Bible School to youth outings/activities for all ages

Pastor Jens is looking is looking forward to bringing
   our members and youth back to St. Peter’s.

For more information please contact Pastor at
either at 586-979-3850 or 586-803-3373.

                        * * * * * * 

Website News
   www,stpeterswarren.org

Since the website went online, in 2005, we have had almost 15,000 visitors. Many of which are on a regular basis and are from out of State and also the country.

Thank you to our webmaster, Paul Gutmann, for all his hard work and dedication. The website is an increasingly important part of St. Peter’s Ministry.

There is a wealth of information on the site. For example you can hear past sermons, in English and German; read the Grapevine and current calendar; learn about the different groups and activities at St. Peter’s; there are also important “links” to resources such as the German Consulate in Chicago.

* * * * * * 

SPRING CLEANING


Every year the church is cleaned on the inside before Palm Sunday
in order to prepare it for Holy Week and Easter.

 

 This year the date is:
Saturday, March 15th
at 9:00 AM

We invite everyone (men too) to join us. If you can help, please bring a pail, rags, sponge & cleaning solutions. If you have any questions, please contact
the office.

* * * * * * 


 TO ALL NON-MEMBER FRIENDS . . .

Who receive this newsletter are kindly asked to make their 2008 minimum donation of $10.00 now.

FREUNDE UNSER GEMEINDE 

Die nicht Mitglieder sind, aber weiterhin den Gemeindebrief erhalten wollen, werden gebeten eine Mindestspende von $10.00 für 2008 Porto und Unkosten einzuschicken.

THANK YOU / DANKE SCHÖN !

  OTHER  NEWS AND VIEWS
FROM ST. PETER'S CHURCH


BIBLE STUDY

At our last Bible Study, after everyone was welcomed by Herta, we began with the hymn Herr staerke mich Dein Leiden zu bedenken - Lord, make me strong to think about your suffering; how appropriate during this time of Lent. We were so elated to have Pastor Jens, who conducted our study, with us. We focused on Job, chapters 1 & 2, and the pastor not only led us, but also encouraged discussion - for how many of us have not at one time or another had the opportunity to compare ourselves with Job? What a man of faith he must have been; even though he lost everything that was dear to him, he never gave up on God - may we all learn from him. Thank you, Pastor Jens, for an informative and knowledgeable Bible study.

* * * * * * 

Upcoming Events

    Church cleaning March 15th, 9:00 a.m.

Everyone is welcome to help, men too. After all, the church belongs to all of us. Please bring buckets and rags if you can.

German Theater Group - April 5th
This is the tentative date that they will perform in our church. 

We need approximately eighteen people to provide lodging for the group. The last time we had such a group, everyone really enjoyed it.

Bake Sale Fund Raiser - May 3-4
Anything you can bake is, as always, greatly appreciated, this time!

Especially tortes and Kleingebaeck.
And, since Mother's Day is the following Sunday, why not come to our bake sale for some
delicious items for Mom.

Our next Bible study
Starting in March, Bible Study will meet every
 other Monday. Everyone is welcome to participate. Men and women alike!

 In preparation: for March 10th
please read Job 15-21
March 24th read Job 22-31

For questions and suggestions, please contact Pastor Jens at 586-979-3850

We hope and pray that many of you will come and join us. I am positive it will be a blessing for all.

May we always have love in our hearts, God's peace in our souls, and His joy in our life.

Maria L.

 

Nursing Homes:
 We have  2
reported		 In Care Facilities:
We have 1
 reported

At Their Homes
We have  6  
reported


Cheer someone up by giving them
a friendly call!
Call our Church Office
for additional information
586-979-3850

* * * * * * 



SUNDAY SERVICES ARE ON CASSETTE TAPES
"English or German"

Special Services are Available on CD's Mostly in German sometimes in English

Our Sunday services are now recorded on cassette tapes. If you are homebound and would like to hear our services, please call our office 586-979-3850 and let Mrs. Campbell, know what Sundays you would like then a tape will be sent your way.


THE SAXON
 CLUB
 Meets at 3PM.
Sunday
 March 2, 2008

Presents their associations and federations
and shows native customs and traditions.

 * * * * * 

Grant us,
Father, hearts that love You,
Hearts that serve You day by day;
Help us find in You our purpose 
for the things we do and say.
 Fizhugh
Other Stewardship Here at Saint Peter's



LESUNGEN READERS

Die Lesungen für die Gottesdienste im Februar sind folgend:

March Services at:  9:30 AM 11:00 AM

Die Bibel, das Wort Gottes, zeigt uns die Absichten Gottes und Sein Angebot der Erlösung durch den Herrn Jesus Christus für den sündigen Menschen. Die Bibel enthält Licht, um uns zu leiten, Nahrung, um uns zu erhalten, und Trost, um uns zu erquicken.

 * * * * * * 

PAYER
CHAIN

If you would like prayers said for yourself or someone you know, please fill out the form in the Narthex and put it in the prayer box or mail it to the church,

Attn: Prayer Chain
You may also call St. Peter's Church office
Monday thru Friday 9AM - 4PM or our
Church Office ( 586 ) 979-3850

Your requests are strictly confidential
unless otherwise requested

* * * * * * 



The Women of St. Peter’s host the Coffee Hour

The Women of St. Peter’s host the Coffee Hour after each service on Sundays. However, they are in need of volunteers to help bake or purchase baked goods and also clean up afterwards. Volunteers only need to help once in a while. Please sign the sheet on the bulletin board in the Narthex.
You may also make a monetary donation to the group and they will purchase items on your behalf.
Perhaps, you might consider hosting the Coffee Hour yourself for a special occasion such as a birthday, anniversary, etc. If you would like to do this, please contact our church office.

This is an appreciated activity
which is enjoyed by all.

NEEDS YOUR HELP !

 The Macomb County
 Community Services Agency
  (MCCSA), Senior Nutrition
 Program (Meals on Wheels) is seeking volunteer and substitute drivers to deliver meals in your community. Volunteers are asked to drive a lunch route, approximately 1 1/2 hour, twice (2x) a month. Drivers will use their personal automobile. Mileage reimbursed. The meals are delivered 5 days a week, Monday through Friday.

For more information, call MCCSA at
586-469-5228 

Around our Community

Just Click Here and off you go!31654 Mound Rd
Warren

586-983-3633

http://www.
neighborhoodlink.
com/org/mcivc/
The Macomb County Interfaith Volunteer Caregivers Program

Provides assistance to our older and disabled neighbors who need a little extra help. Many frail and physically challenged adults in our community struggle daily to maintain their independence - our helping hands often make it possible for them to remain in their own home.

* * * * * * 

SUNDAY VIDEO SYSTEM
TUTORIALS
(We need YOUR help!)

We are looking for individuals who are interested in learning and operating the video system for Sunday services. At the present time we only have a couple of members doing so. We need a few more in order to set up a rotating schedule in order not to overburden any one individual. 

The system is VERY EASY to learn and operate. You do not need to have computer experience to operate the system. Please contact Larry or call the church office at 586-979-3850 to set up an appointment.

A Look At Some Activities
Here at Saint Peter's


If you would like to join, 
just attend one of our rehearsals
 or call the church office
for more information
586-979-3850

  READERS
 Lead me, Lord in tender mercy.
Leave me not to walk alone:
Let Your wisdom guide me ever,
for I dare not trust my own.
 Reed

Do you enjoy reading the Bible to others?
We need readers in English
Do share your Gifts
On Sunday Mornings?

   


 Here at St. Peters we care
and share and Greet
each other and Guests!
Do you like share your faith and life with others!

     Do you Like Greeting 
    "Guests and Visitors"

   

Assistant Ministers: Please remember to sign the schedule in the Narthex as soon as possible.
Thank you !

 

 


Were we pick folks up that cannot make it to Church on there own!

This can be a fun Adventure!

* * * * * 

ST. PETER'S BIBLE STUDY

At our recent meeting we studied Colossians, which
is one of the shorter Books of the Bible with only four
chapters. Yet, by reading it one can discover what a
blessing Christ truly is to us.

Our " Herta" puts so much thought and effort into
 these studies, that it would be nice if more of you
would join us.


Thank you, your support in this ministry.
Monday March 10/24 2007
7:00 PM
We will welcome you here!

Click Here To Listen in ! (this will open a new window)
Click on the Bell and Here Us

The sound of a Bell Choir is very unique !
Everyone is invited to join the Bell Choir -no experience necessary, we will teach you! The Bell Choir rehearses every other Sundays, starting 9:00AM, and plays during both
services the following Sunday..

Click Here To Listen in ! (this will open a new window)KIRCHENCHOR
SUNDAYS 10:30 AM,

The choir (Kirchenchor) resumes it's Fall schedule on Sundays refer to above or look at our calendar. The choir meets every other Sunday for rehearsals and sings during that Sunday service. If you have any questions please feel free to contact:

 
Alter Guild Group
    Do you like to be on the Alter
    Guild! Do you like picking out
    Church Hymns! Have some new
    Ideas for different Worship
    Services!

    Do you like getting Volunteers
   for Flowers Sunday's Church Services!
 


GREETERS
For Our Church
Services
Welcome Someone
You Will Find Joy

 

   SENIORENKREIS
Wednesdays 11:00 AM
March  12th & 26th 

The Seniors (Seniorenkreis) will meet again on every other Wednesdays during each Month at 11AM. The group meets the first and third Wednesday of every month for a short meeting followed by festivities and a luncheon. Stop by for a visit and consider joining, everyone is welcome !

THE PARISH
 NURSERY
EVERY SUNDAY

The church nursery is at your disposal every Sunday during both services, during church dinners, and special functions. There are toys for every age group as well as a crib, changing table, and a high chair. Plus you don’t have to miss a single word of the church service for it is piped into the nursery as well. Please feel free to use it whenever you wish!


SENIORENKREIS®

Februar war ein sehr strenger  Wintermonat. Unsere Treffen waren am 6. und 20. Feb. Am Aschermittwoch um 10 Uhr veranstaltete Herr Pfarrer Jens den Gottesdienst.

34 Senioren nahmen daran teil Der Seniorenkreis begann um 11 Uhr. Nach der Begrüßung sagte Pfarrer Jens das Gebet und hielt eine kurze Ansprache, dass er sich wohlfühlt, uns alle wiederzusehen. Wir freuen uns und danken dem lieben Gott, dass wir einen sehr guten Pfarrer, samt seiner lieben Familie haben. Wir alle wünschen ihnen Gottes Segen und eine gute Zusammenarbeit bei der St. Peter’s Gemeinde und dem Seniorenkreis. Als Gast begrüßten wir Pfarrer Jens’ Bruder und Schwieger-mutter mit den zwei lieben Kindern Malia und Keanu; beide waren sehr brav. Fritz Mohr begrüßte auch alle Anwesenden. Wie gewöhnlich feierten wir die Februar-Geburtstage. Unser ältestes Mitglied, Eugene Wendel, wird am 10. März 104 Jahre. Wir alle gratulieren und wünschen Gottes Kraft und Segen.

In diesem Jahr ist Ostern früher, daher sind wir an der Vorbereitung für die Osterfeier mit Programm, welche am 12. März stattfindet. Dazu laden wir alle Senioren und Gäste herzlich ein.

Dieses Mal wird Catering sein. Dazu benötigen wir die genaue Anzahl der Personen, vor dem 06. März. Anmeldungen bei Käthe F. 586-792-9080, Feli K.586-772-6557 oder in der Kirchen Nartex. Wir hoffen auf einen guten Besuch. Der Preis beträgt $13.00/Person.

Das nächste Treffen nach Ostern wird am 26. März sein, wie gewöhnlich um 11:00 Uhr.

 Da wir in der Passionszeit sind, will ich dieses Leidensgebet mit allen teilen:

Herr, wir danken dir von Herzen für alle deine Not, für die Wunden, für die Schmerzen, für den herben, bittren
Tod, für dein Zittern, für dein Zagen, 

für dein tausendfaches Plagen, für deine Angst und tiefe Pein wollen wir ewig dankbar sein. Amen.

Es ist eine Zeit, wo wir unseren Herrn Jesus begleiten nach Golgatha. Dann, am Ostermorgen, die wunderbare Aufer-stehungsfeier und Lieder singen. Jesus lebt, mit ihm auch ich!

Alles Liebe und Frohe Ostern wünscht der Seniorenkreis,

Mit Liebe, Käthe F.
und der Seniorenkreis – Vorstand. 

SENIOREN OSTER
BILD

Feier
12 Maerz 2008
Passions gottesdient 10:00 AM
Programm 11:00 AM

Anmeldungen bitte telefonisch im Gemeindebuero unter
Tel: 586-979-3850

Alle sind herzlich willkommen! Gottesdienst, Programm und
Mittagessen
versprechen
unterhaltsame und
besinnliche Stunden.

Unkostenbeitrag: 13 Dollar pro Erwachsener


6,300 Lutheran
churches
participate and 36
in our area.

“SIMPLY GIVING”
Electronic Transfers

 “Simply Giving” is an automated giving program designed to help you conveniently and consistently contribute to St. Peter’s Lutheran Church. Through “Simply Giving”, your offerings are made through a preauthorized withdrawal from your bank account. You determine the frequency of your automatic gift—weekly, semi-monthly or monthly—the option is yours. Your offering is deposited into the church’s bank account on the same day it is withdrawn from your account—at NO cost to you or the church.

Benefits to you and to your
Congregation

“Simply Giving” is a reliable, safe way to move your stewardship plan into action. It allows you to share your offerings through planned giving and activates your generosity into ongoing stewardship. Because your offering is given consistently, you won’t need to play “catch-up” at yearend or worry about forgotten checkbooks or missed Sunday offerings.

But you’re not the only one that benefits. Your congregation benefits from steady, more predictable revenues throughout the year, more efficient bookkeeping and greater confidence in meeting its financial commitments.

Why does Thrivent Financial for Lutheran offer Simply Giving?

Thrivent Financial offers Simply Giving to further its mission of serving Lutheran congregations and institutions.

How do I participate?

Complete the enrollment form included in this newsletter and return it to church. If you have questions about the form please contact our Church Office at:

St. Peter's Lutheran Church
586-979-3850

Click Here To Learn More! (this will open a new window)
 Never Too Old For Sunday School !

Come on one and all
and learn Gods Love!

Every Sunday morning, the children of the parish join in the 9:30 AM Service through the Children's Sermon. They are then excused with their teachers to their respective classrooms for their lesson based on the Sunday Lectionary used in worship. Show your children your faith in God and bring them to Sunday School. It is important that our children learn about their Christian faith, they will have fun in the process and make new friends. Please be supportive of this children's ministry.

For enrollment or if you have questions
please contact our Church Office at:

St. Peter's Lutheran Church
586-979-3850

Help our children meet their faithful Sunday School attendance!

What's Going Today and for March! 

Lutheran Social Services
of Michigan

Click Here To Find Out More Serving people as an expressing of the
 love of Christ in Michigan LSSM
The Key For Help and Understanding.

Make Your Dollar Count
                           Support LSSM

Call Our Church Office
586-979-3850

If you or someone you know is going through
a difficult time and could use our assistance
in prayer, please fill out a
 “Prayer Request Form” 
located in the Narthex! 
Then drop it in the prayer box.

Your requests are confidential
 if so desired.

Help is just a prayer away !
PLEASE 
REMEMBER
TO RETURN.

Your books, tapes & CD’s 
when you are finished borrowing 
them from our Library

 


 WE GIVE THANKS FOR 
THOSE WHO HELPED 
THIS MONTH

We thank the church mice or mouse who:

a Took down the Christmas decorations
a Cleaned the Pastor’s new House
a Moved the furniture into the Pastor’s house
a Donated items for the Pastor’s House
a Maintains our website
 a Do the video presentations on Sundays
 a Do the Sunday Coffee Hour
 a Helped maintain the church
 a Take cares of our Altar and candles
 a Drive our Elderly to Church on Sundays
 a Ushers on Sundays
 a Do our Readings on Sundays
 a Teach Sunday School
 a Play in our Bell Choir
 a Sing with our Kirchenchor
a Help our fellow members with food and cards
 a Make calls for the Church when needed
 a Do newsletter mailings

    

  WE ARE COLLECTING
  PRINT CARTRIDGES
  and CELL PHONES

Dear Supporter here at St. Peter's we are participating in the Meijer Community Rewards program. This is an easy way for you to earn cash rewards for St. Peter's every time you shop at Meijer. The more you shop the more you earn!

As of September 2004, Meijer has helped over 11,000 organizations with over $9,000,000. Each year, Meijer gives at least 5% of their net profits back to the community - one of the highest levels in our industry!

 Benefits  Earn up to 4% of your qualified purchases.

Your rewards can be applied to your family's personal
 organization account. 

You never have to pre-purchase anything.

Your Meijer Card is easily carried on your key ring or in your wallet.

Use the Meijer Credit Card for the most benefits, or pay any way you choose – cash, check, or charge.

Receive rewards for almost all Meijer purchases Groceries, toys, home fashions, jewelry over 150,000 products! 

 How To Sign Up  You can sign up in one of three ways:

Pick up a application at church. They are available at our narthex.

Sign up at the Meijer store where you shop.

If you already have a Meijer Credit Card or Meijer Card, just call 1-800-962-7011 to join Meijer Community Rewards SM.

Click Here And Join! (will open in new window)
 Join on the internet at meijer.com/rewards

  I M P O R T A N T  
   When you sign up use
Code #993291
 to have the rewards
that you earn go to St. Peters.

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Program & Information®
St. Peter's Production

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Revised: 01/23/2010