News @ Saint John's UCC

SAINT JOHN’S

UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST

121 East Main Street, Schuylkill Haven, PA

News

Text Box: Lamplighter last updated 01/30/12 PASTORAL THOUGHTS... Once again, it seems like we just got past Christmas and already Lent is upon us. Ash Wednesday is February 22 and we will begin this sacred time as always with a service of Holy Communion. The seven weeks of Lent is a holy time—a time for reflection as we consider the sacrifice Jesus made on our behalf. Because of his great love for us, we can be forgiven of our sins and live with him in glory for all eternity. The Apostle Paul reminds us in his letter to the church at Galatia that, even though grace is a free gift of God, we who bear Christ’s name have both privileges and responsibilities when it comes to living the Christian life. As Christ lives in us, our lives should reflect his. In other words, it’s not about us—it’s all about him. In this Lenten season, perhaps you will make this sacred time a special time in which you pause to reflect on the real meaning of Christ’s sacrifice. It can also be a time for you to meditate on your own life and the sacrifices you must make in order for Christ to live in you. May the Holy Spirit guide you and bless you as you seek to serve Christ in your life. Pastor Janet WHEN SHOULD I CONTACT THE CHURCH OFFICE? The church office is open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9:30am-3:00pm. If you call the office when no one is there, please leave a message. Contact the office: When a family member is admitted to the hospital or returns home. When you have a change of address or phone number. When a new baby arrives or a death occurs. When the church can assist you in any way. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS... Please contact Ann Rich, Financial Secretary, or call the Church Office if you would like a financial statement for 2011. This year, they will only be issued upon request. JOYFUL NOISE OFFERING... The “Joyful Noise” offering is received the last Sunday of each month. Our December offering was $20.64. Keep saving that spare change—it adds up! 2012 CHARTS... The sign-up charts are posted next to the office door in the Education Hallway. Don’t forget to sign up for your special day. All prices remain the same for 2012: altar flower and chancel baskets - $20.00, bulletins - $10.00, flowers/bulletins for same service - $25.00, newsletter - $40.00. FOOD PANTRY... The suggested food pantry item for February is CANNED SOUP. Please place your items in the box in the Narthex any time. FAMILY BOWLING... Christian Rock Glow Bowling will be held the following dates at Strike Zone in Pottsville from 2:30-4:30pm: February 12 and March 11. Cost is $9.00 and includes shoe rental. HISTORY DISPLAY OPENS... The first display of historic items in celebration of our 150th anniversary will open in February. Entitled “BEGINNINGS”, it traces the events leading up to the formation of Saint John’s congregation. The display will be in Room #102 and will change periodically throughout 2012. THANKS TO... Usher, acolytes, greeters, lay readers...everyone who donated items to the food pantry...our newsletter volunteers...the January counting team...everyone who helped “undeck the halls”!

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