November 11, 2022
Dear Peace members and friends,
I have many things to share with you this morning; Harvest Pack, stewardship, some important staffing news, and, of course, a preview of Sunday’s worship.
But first, let us recognize Veterans Day. Veterans Day is an official U.S. holiday celebrated on November 11th honoring people served and serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. Unlike Memorial Day that remembers people who gave their lives while in service, Veterans Day celebrates the service of all U.S. military veterans. This sacrificial service assists in protecting our many freedoms, including the freedom of religion. This day also gives a chance to focus attention on the needs of veterans and those currently serving.
I can think of no better way to honor all veterans on Veterans Day than with the words of Abraham Lincoln in his Second Inaugural Address: “With malice toward none; with charity for all; with firmness in the right, as God gives us to see the right, let us strive on to finish the work we are in; to bind up the nation’s wounds; to care for him who shall have borne the battle, and for his widow, and his orphan—to do all which may achieve and cherish a just and lasting peace among ourselves, and with all nations.”
We turn to Sunday’s worship and the first week of a two-week stewardship emphasis “On Giving Thanks.” This Sunday our focus will be the time and talents that we have been gifted by God; gifts and talents that bless us and, in turn, are given us so that we might be blessing to others. Pastor Joe will preach a message entitled, “On Giving Thanks for Grace and Gifts.” We will take a few moments in worship to offer up some of our time and talents to the ministry of Peace, we’ll hear from the Sunday School Singers, and gather around the table of the Lord.
Following worship (or maybe continuing worship!), Harvest Pack will take place throughout the church. Harvest Pack is our annual food-packing event on behalf of local residents in Bloomington in need of food. Even if you haven’t signed up, join us for this worthwhile effort on behalf of our neighbors. A festive Sunday ahead!
And thinking ahead to next week, we’ll continue our stewardship emphasis by pledging a portion of God’s gifts to us for the work of ministry at Peace and, through the Lutheran church, the sharing of God’s gifts around the world. Following worship, we will have a Pie Fest so please bring a pie church to share….next week!
Last of all, some staff news. Patti Arntz, Director of Music, resigned her position this last Tuesday, effective that day. We are grateful to Patti for her ministry and her efforts on behalf of the Peace Choir, the Sunday School Singers, and—the group she began—the Alleluia Singers and we wish her God’s blessings into the future.
Meanwhile, current staff (especially organist Bruce Hudson), Church Council, and Worship and Music Committee are working to ensure a meaningful Advent/Christmas season ahead and future staffing for this important ministry of the church. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to contact me or church administrator, Lori Thomson, both at (952-944-6510).
See you Sunday!
Mark