Anticipating Worship (December 27)

First Sunday after Christmas


Worship Focus:  Jesus came to live for us as our Brother.


Scripture Readings:
1 Samuel 2:18-20,26
Psalm 111
Hebrews 2:10-18
Luke 2:41-52

Sermon Text:  1 Samuel 2:18-20,26

Grow in the Lord Like a Little Boy

Prayer of the Day:  Almighty God, in mercy you sent your one and only Son to take upon himself our human nature.  By his gracious coming deliver us from the corruption of our sin and transform us into the likeness of his glory; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.  Amen.

Merry Christmas.

BOX TOP NEWS from Tina Ross, Coordinator — Thank you St. John congregation members for your Box Top participation.  I have a Box Tops collection box out in the link of the church.  There are always some Box Tops in there for me.  Thank you for bringing them in.  I count them and send them in to the company.  Each pink and blue box top is worth $0.10.  The company sends a check to the school.  Thank you for your time and scissor cutting skills.  Happy clipping.  

 

Anticipating Worship (December 20)

Fourth Sunday in Advent


Worship Focus:  The Lord is coming:  Forgiveness and peace are ours.

Scripture Readings:
Micah 5:2-5a
Psalm 85
Hebrews 10:5-10
Luke 1:39-55

Sermon Text:  Hebrews 10:5-10

Hear a Heavenly Conversation
1.  It is about a perfect person
2.  It is about a perfect people

Prayer of the Day:  Stir up your power, O Lord, and come.  Take away the burden of our sins and make us ready for the celebration of your birth, that we may receive you in joy and serve you always; for you live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.  Amen.

Happy Advent.

Anticipating Worship (December 13)

Third Sunday in Advent


Worship Focus:  The Lord is coming:  Rejoice!

Scripture Readings:
Zephaniah 3:14-17
Psalm 130
Philippians 4:4-7
Luke 3:7-18

Sermon Text:  Philippians 4;4,5

Rejoice.  Rejoice!

Prayer of the Day:  Hear our prayers, Lord Jesus Christ, and come with the good news of your mighty deliverance.  Drive the darkness from our hearts and fill us with your light; for you live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.  Amen.

Happy Advent.

There are two events this Sunday.  It is the choir song service during worship and fellowship Sunday after the service.  See you at 9:30 AM.

Ladies Aid - Craft and Bake Sale

Ladies Aid Sponsored Craft & Bake Sale is Sunday, December 13th,

in the Fellowship Hall,  following worship.  If you would like to donate a craft or a baked item for the sale, please have them pre-priced and brought to the Fellowship Hall that morning.  If you have any questions you may speak with Ladies Aid President, Rhonda Evgen. Also that morning is Fellowship Sunday, which the Ladies Aid is hosting. The freewill offering from Fellowship Sunday and proceeds from the bake sale will go towards mission projects that the Ladies Aid help support.

 

 

Ms. Lendt-Letter to Congregation

Dear members of St. John Lutheran,

Four weeks ago I received a call to Grace Lutheran School in Oshkosh, WI, for 1st grade and organ. I’ve been looking at both of my calls – the call to Grace and my current call to St. John – and have been considering how well my God-given abilities match with each of them. I’ve gone both ways with it, but I’ve reached my final decision. I’ve decided to continue using my gifts at St. John and to return the call to Grace Lutheran.

Even at different locations we are serving the same Savior, so please keep Grace Lutheran in your prayers. God has been blessing their school with huge growth, and I’m praying that Grace will not have to wait much longer for their 1st grade teacher. May God continue to bless his ministry here at St. John, at Grace, and all over the world!

In our Savior’s Name,

Cindy Lendt

Your Invited...

Help decorate St. John for Christmas!  — This is a great opportunity to help beautify our church for the birth of the Savior. If you are interested in helping to set up the trees and hang some boughs, show up at St. John on Saturday December 5th, at
4:30 pm. The more the merrier!

 

Anticipating Worship (December 6)

Second Sunday in Advent


Worship Focus:  The Lord is coming:  God’s messengers prepare the way before him.

Scripture Readings:
Malachi 3:1-4
Psalm 24
Philippians 1:3-11
Luke 3:1-6

Sermon Text:  Philippians 1:3-11

Lord, Give Us an Advent Heart
1.  Full of joy
2.  Full of confidence
3.  Full of fruit

Prayer of the Day:  Stir up our hearts, O Lord, to prepare the way for your only Son.  By his coming give us strength in our conflicts and shed light on our path through the darkness of this world; through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.  Amen.

Happy Advent.

Anticipating Worship (November 29)

First Sunday in Advent


Worship Focus:  The Lord is coming.

Scripture Readings:
Jeremiah 33:14-16
Psalm 25
1 Thessalonians 3;9-13
Luke 21:25-36

Sermon Text:  Jeremiah 33:14-16

Enter the Days of Advent Eagerly
1.  Because God's promises are sure
2.  Because God's people are safe

Prayer of the Day:  Stir up your power, O Lord, and come.  Protect us by your strength and save us from the threatening dangers of our sins; for you live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.  Amen.


Happy Advent.

Thanksgiving Eve Worship Service

Give Thanks to the Lord For He is Good!
Come join us for our Thanksgiving Eve Worship Service,
Wednesday, November 25th, 6:30 pm.

New Program at St. John Lutheran School

Loaves 4 Learning..New Program Beginning Now

Our school has registered to participate in a loyalty rewards program offered by the bakers of Country Hearth and Village Hearth breads, allowing us the opportunity to earn as much as $10,000 this year!  Start saving UPC Proof-of-Purchases from any Country Hearth or Village Hearth product, each one is worth 5 cents.  Visit Loaves4Learning.com for more information.
UPCs can be dropped in our designated collection boxes located on the table in the church link or on the table outside the school office. 
If you have any questions regarding this program, please speak with Mrs. Ellen Mueller in the school office.

THIS SUNDAY -

SPAGHETTI LUNCH AND DESSERT AUCTION TO SUPPORT OUR LOCAL FOOD SHELF

After worship on SUNDAY, the Church Council is sponsoring a spaghetti luncheon with food provided by Yarusso Bros Italian Restaurant. There will also be a silent auction of pies and desserts -- perfect for Thanksgiving! Enjoy some great food and fellowship for a good cause!

The free-will offering and all proceeds from the auction will go to benefit the Merrick Food Shelf in St. Paul.

Letter from Ms. Cindy Lendt

Dear members of St. John Lutheran,

I want you to know I’ve received a call to teach at Grace Lutheran School in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. They are calling me for 1st grade and organ, with the opportunity to help with other areas of music at their church and school. Right now I’m considering where my talents would serve God’s kingdom the best: either here at St. John or at Grace Lutheran. Please pray that God gives me the wisdom to make the right choice. This kind of decision is hard to make, and I sincerely appreciate your input and prayers!

In our Savior's Name,

Cindy Lendt

Anticipating Worship (November 8)

Second Sunday of End Time—Last Judgment


Worship Focus:  We eagerly wait for Jesus’ coming day of judgment.

Scripture Readings:
Malachi 4:1,2
Psalm 90
Hebrews 9:24-28
John 5:19-24

Sermon Text:  Malachi 4:1,2

Look at Malachi's Forecast of Sun
1.  Be careful because it burns
2.  Be confident because it heals

Prayer of the Day:  Lord God Almighty, so rule and govern our hearts and minds by your Holy Spirit that we may always look forward to the end of this present evil age and to the day of your righteous judgment.  Keep us steadfast in true and living faith and present us at last holy and blameless before you; through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.  Amen.

Immanuel Hmong is planning to have a Thanksgiving Celebration. — The date is November 22nd.
They will have a Hmong Worship Service from 1:45-3:00 pm. After the service, they will be having a Thanksgiving Dinner around 3:00 pm, in the fellowship hall. St. John has been invited to have fellowship with them. Immanuel Hmong will provide all the food and drinks. Dress: Church clothes or Hmong custom if you have one.  Please see the sign up sheet on the table in the narthex.  Immanuel Hmong would like a count by November 15th of those attending the meal.  There is a sign-up sheet in the narthex.
(The worship service will be streamed live.)

 

Daylight Saving Time Ends on Sunday, November 1, 2015.

Don't forget to "fall back" one hour before you go to bed on Saturday night!

Anticipating Worship (November 1)

First Sunday of End Time—Reformation Sunday


Worship Focus:  God changes our lives with his grace in the gospel.

Scripture Readings:
Jeremiah 18:1-11
Psalm 46
Revelation 14:6,7
Mark 13:5-11

Sermon Text:  Jeremiah 18:1-11

Reformation Is Personal
1.  As we listen to God's Word
2.  As we live in God's Word

Prayer of the Day:  Gracious God, our refuge and strength, pour out your Holy Spirit on your faithful people.  Keep them steadfast in your Word, protect and comfort them in all temptations, defend them against all their enemies, and bestow on the Church your saving peace; through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.  Amen.


Happy Reformation Day!

Reformation Service

2015 Reformation Service will be held Sunday, November 1st, 4:00 pm, in the St. Croix Lutheran Chapel.

October is Pastor Appreciation Month! — This year, in honor of their 10th Anniversary

coming up in November, Pastor is taking Charmain to Hawaii where there is a pastor's retreat

offering free lodging for them. There is a card box located in the Church Office if you'd like to

give a gift to help defray the costs of their car rental and food.  The box will be kept there until

Sunday, November 1st, as their plane will be leaving eight days later. Thank you for your support!

After worship on Sunday, November 15th, the Church Council will be providing a spaghetti luncheon including a silent auction of pies and desserts. The free-will offering and all proceeds from the auction will go to benefit the Merrick Food Shelf. If you cannot attend the luncheon but would still like to give a gift toward Merrick Food shelf, please use a Special Offering envelope or a plain white envelope and indicate FOR FOOD SHELF on the outside or on the memo line of the check. Your check should still be made out to St. John Lutheran Church. If you would like to contribute a pie or dessert for the silent auction, please sign up on the sheet in the narthex.

Service Opportunity — Dear St. John Members, We are looking for volunteers who would be willing to provide rides to and from church for upcoming evening services this holiday season (Thanksgiving Eve, Advent and Christmas Eve). This will provide a much needed service for those in our congregation who want to attend worship but no longer feel comfortable driving after dark. If you are willing to be a driver, please contact the church office or write your name and contact information on the sheet in the narthex. Thank you for your consideration. 

Meditations for 2016: This is the last Sunday to order.  There are extra forms on the table in the narthex if you misplaced your order form.  We need 12 subscriptions to get thebundle price. Please make your check payable to St. John Ev. Lutheran Church.  Place your payment and order form in the offering plate.  Thank you. 

Forward in Christ for 2016:  This is the last Sunday to order. There are extra forms in the narthex if you misplaced your order form.  We need 12 subscriptions to get the bundle price. This publication gives us timely information regarding our WELS Synod and you will find articles of spiritual encouragement.  Please make your check payable to St. John Ev. Lutheran Church.  Place your payment and order form in the offering plate.  Thank you.

 

 

 

 

Anticipating Worship (October 25)

The Twenty-Second Sunday after Pentecost


Worship Focus:  Our Savior once served us selflessly so we can now serve one another unselfishly.

Scripture Readings:
Isaiah 53:10-12
Psalm 22
Hebrews 4:9-16
Mark 10:35-45

Sermon Text:  Isaiah 53:10-12

The Suffering Servant Is Successful

Prayer of the Day:  Lord, keep your household, the Church, in continual godliness and set us free from all adversities that, under your protection, we may serve you with true devotion and holy deeds; through Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.  Amen.

St. Croix News

Festival of Seasons Volunteers

Donate a few hours of your time at the Festival of Seasons craft and bake sale on Saturday, November 14, and get some Christmas shopping done at the same time! Contact Mrs. Cheryl Wondrasch at festivalofseasons@gmail.com or (612) 850-9817.

Share Your Passion at SCL's Career Day!

Join us for Career Day on Wednesday, November 18 to share insight about your industry with current students of SCL. Speak to students for five 25-minute sessions. We are looking for a wide variety of careers. Contact Ashley at AGilleland@StCroixLutheran.org to sign up.

Make a new friend and impact a life for Christ. Host an SCL international dormitory student October 23-25. Plan a family drive, take a drive to enjoy the fall colors and ice cream, enjoy conversation, and attend church together. Contact Sue Galler at SGaller@StCroixLutheran.org or 651-455-1521 ext. 118.

October is Pastor Appreciation Month! — This year, in honor of their 10th Anniversary coming up next month, Pastor is taking Charmain to Hawaii, where there is a pastor's retreat offering free lodging for them. So, please join us downstairs after the service, where Dorcas will be hosting a Hawaiian Fellowship Sunday, and there will be a card box if you'd like to help defray the costs of their car rental and food.  After Sunday the box will be kept in the church office until Sunday, November 1st, as their plane will be leaving eight days later. Thank you for your support!

 

Anticipating Worship (October 11)

The Twentieth Sunday after Pentecost


Worship Focus:  God lovingly blesses us by making us part of his family and part of our family.


Scripture Readings:
Genesis 2:18-24
Psalm 139:13-18
Hebrews 2:9-11
Mark 10:2-16

Sermon Text:  Psalm 139:13-18

Praise Your Creator
1.  For his loving power
2.  For his loving presence

Prayer of the Day:  Almighty God, in your bountiful goodness keep us safe from every evil of body and soul.  Make us ready, with cheerful hearts, to do whatever pleases you; through Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.  Amen.

Wednesday Bible study will begin Oct. 7th, and be held twice monthly on the first and third Wednesdays, from 3:00 - 4:00 pm, in the All Purpose Room.  We would like to encourage parents and grandparents who pick up their children from school to attend if possible. Our first study will be: "How to Study the Bible." 

 

Anticipating Worship (September 27)

The Eighteenth Sunday after Pentecost


Worship Focus:  True greatness comes from humble and faithful service.

Scripture Readings:
Jeremiah 11:18-20
Psalm 31
James 3:13-18
Mark 9:30-37

Sermon Text:  Mark 9:30-37

Define Greatness Carefully
1.  For the Savior of all
2.  For the servants of all

Prayer of the Day:  Lord God, you call us to work in your kingdom and leave no one standing idle.  Help us to order our lives by your wisdom and to serve you in willing obedience; through Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.  Amen.

Anticipating Worship (September 20)

The Seventeenth Sunday after Pentecost


Worship Focus:  Christians confess their faith in a suffering Savior with their willing obedience in life.

Scripture Readings:
Isaiah 50:4-10
Psalm 116
James 2:1-5,8-10,14-18
Mark 8:27-35

Sermon Text:  Isaiah 50:4-10

Listen to the Servant of the Lord Speak
1.  With extra clarity
2.  With extreme confidence

Prayer of the Day:  Lord, we pray that your mercy and grace may always go before us and follow after us that, loving you with undivided hearts, we may be ready for every good and useful work; through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.  Amen.

Dorothy Lecher

The Lord called Dorothy Lecher to her eternal home this past Wednesday morning.  We thank him for bringing her to faith and keeping her in that faith throughout her life.  Her Christian funeral service will be this Saturday, September 19th, at 11:00 AM at church.  Visitation will be one hour prior and with a lunch to follow.  Please keep the family in your prayers.

Thank You

This is a few days late, but a huge thank you to all who volunteered to help this past Tuesday when St. John hosted the St. Croix Pastoral Conference.  Your work from setting up breakfast to serving lunch and everything before and after and in between is greatly appreciated.  Well done.

Please join us for Fun Fest this Sunday!

Anticipating Worship (September 13)

The Sixteenth Sunday after Pentecost


Worship Focus:  God wants us to be faithful to his Word.

Scripture Readings:
Deuteronomy 4:1,2,6-8
Psalm 119:97-104
Ephesians 6:10-20
Mark 7:1-8,14,15,21-23

Sermon Text:  Psalm 119:97-104

We Love God's Word
1.  Because of what it is
2.  Because of what it gives

Prayer of the Day:  O Lord Jesus Christ, preserve us with your never-failing mercy.  Help us avoid whatever is wicked and harmful, and guide us in the way that leads to our salvation; for you live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.  Amen.

Anticipating Worship (September 6)

The Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost


Worship Focus:  We praise our God for changing our lives.

Scripture Readings:
Isaiah 35:4-7a
Psalm 146
James 1:17-27
Mark 7:31-37

Sermon Text:  Isaiah 35:4-7a

God Announces Some Welcome Changes
1.  To give us courage
2.  To give us comfort

Prayer of the Day:  Let your continual mercy, O Lord, cleanse and defend your Church; and because it cannot continue in safety without your help, protect and govern it always by your goodness; for you live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.  Amen.

Anticipating Worship (August 30)

The Fourteenth Sunday after Pentecost


Worship Focus:  Christians willingly follow Christ.

Scripture Readings:
Joshua 24:1,2,14-18
Psalm 71
Ephesians 5:21-31
John 6:60-69

Sermon Text:  Joshua 24:1,2,14-18

We Will Serve the Lord Our God
1.  With the reality of his undeserved love
2.  With the response of our undivided loyalty

Prayer of the Day:  Almighty and everlasting God, give us an increase of faith, hope, and love; and, that we may obtain what you promise, make us love what you command; through Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.  Amen.

Anticipating Worship (August 23)

The Thirteenth Sunday after Pentecost

Worship Focus:  True wisdom is knowing our Savior Jesus.

Scripture Readings:

Proverbs 9:1-6,10

Psalm 1

Ephesians 5:15-20

John 6:51-58

Sermon Text:  Proverbs 9:1-6,10

Lady Wisdom Throws a Dinner Party

1.  It is necessary

2.  It is nutritious

Prayer of the Day:  Almighty and merciful God, it is only by your gift of grace that we come into your presence and offer true and faithful service.  Grant that our worship on earth may always be pleasing to you and in the life to come give us the fulfillment of what you have promised; through Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.  Amen.

Anticipating Worship (August 16)

The Twelfth Sunday after Pentecost


Worship Focus:  Our God enables us to do the impossible.

Scripture Readings:
1 Kings 19:3-8
Psalm 34
Ephesians 4:30-5:2
John 6:41-51

Sermon Text:  1 Kings 19:3-8

We've Got Nowhere to Go but to God
1.  Because of his patience
2.  Because of his provision

Prayer of the Day:  Almighty and everlasting God, you are always more ready to hear than we to pray, and to give more than we either desire or deserve.  Pour upon us the abundance of your mercy, forgiving us those things of which our conscience is afraid, and giving us those good things for which we are not worthy to ask, except through the merits and mediation of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.  Amen.

Anticipating Worship (August 2)

The Tenth Sunday after Pentecost


Worship Focus:  We have fellowship with God through his Word.

Scripture Readings:
Exodus 24:3-11
Psalm 84
Ephesians 4:1-7,11-16
John 6:1-15

Sermon Text:  Psalm 84

We Are Happy in the House of the Lord
1.  Because of the recipient of our worship
2.  Because of the reason for our worship

Prayer of the Day:  O Lord, your ears are always open to the prayers of your humble servants, who come to you in Jesus’ name.  Teach us always to ask according to your will that we may never fail to obtain the blessings you have promised; through Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.  Amen.

St. John School Registration Information

St. John Lutheran School will not be having a Mandatory Orientation Night in August as we have done in past years.  This year we will be doing the registration online from Monday, August 10 through Saturday, August 15, 2015.  Our school offers PreKindergarten (or Kindergarten for congregations who have their own PreK Program) through Grade 8,  If anyone is interested in sending their child(ren) to our school, please encourage them to go to our blog: "stjparentconnection.blogspot.com" where parents view information about our school.  Anyone is able to subscribe to this blog by going to the site and below "Jupiter Ed", on the right hand side, there is a box to subscribe by email.  After the email address is entered, please hit "Submit."  People who subscribe will receive an email notificatin every time there is a post to the blog. More information about the online registration will soon be on our blog.  The first day of school for the 2015-2016 school year is Monday, August 31, 2015.  St. John School is located at 771 Margaret Street in St. Paul,

St. John Lutheran School offers:

*Pre-Kindergarten Program for 4 year olds:  3-1/2 days (M-W-F: 9:30am-12:15pm)

*Kindergarten Program for 5 year olds:  5 full days (M-F: 9:30 am-4:00pm)

If anyone would like further information about our school, please call the school office at (651) 771-6406. 

School Desks-Help is needed

Our school has been given the opportunity to purchase 19 used school desks at a reduced price from Bloomington Lutheran School.  The deal is that we need to pick them up at their school and haul them to our school.

We think that two pick-up trucks are needed to haul the desks and we are asking for volunteers to help. Bloomington Lutheran School is located at 10600 Bloomington Ferry Road, Bloomington, 55438. If you are able to haul and/or help with this important "mission", please contact Mr. Scharf at 907-268-0004 or wscharf@stjohnev.net.

Thanks in advance for any help you can give our school,

Anticipating Worship (July 26)

The Ninth Sunday after Pentecost


Worship Focus:  The Good Shepherd takes care of his flock.

Scripture Readings:
Jeremiah 23:1-6
Psalm 23
Ephesians 2:13-22
Mark 6:30-34

Sermon Text:  Jeremiah 23:1-6

Because the Lord Says So
1.  Listen to the notice
2.  Look at the name

Prayer of the Day:  Grant us, Lord, the spirit to think and do what is right that we, who cannot do anything that is good without you, may by your help be enabled to live according to your will; through Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.  Amen.

Church Phone Problems

Dear St. John members,
Our phone problem has been fixed.  All lines now are working properly and calls
are coming in.  We apologize for any problems this may have created.

Anticipating Worship (July 19)

The Eighth Sunday after Pentecost

Worship Focus:  God calls messengers to go out with his message.

Scripture Readings:
Amos 7:10-15
Psalm 78
Ephesians 1:3-14
Mark 6:7-13

Sermon Text:  Amos 7:10-15

God's Messengers Have a Message
1.  Of bad news
2.  Of good news

Prayer of the Day:  Almighty God, we thank you for planting in us the seed of your Word.  By your Holy Spirit help us to receive it with joy and to bring forth fruits in faith and hope and love; through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.  Amen.

Church Phone Problems

Dear St. John members we are experiencing phone problems at church and school.
When you dial our number you will get a ring no answer but the phone is not actually ringing in the building.  The telephone company was called this morning and the problem is being worked on.  If you need to reach Pastor Voigt his cell # is
651-447-3075. We hope to have this resolved as soon as possible.

Meet the Author and Booksigning

Meet the Author & Booksigning
"I Was There When The Giant Fell"
          Author: Adam Nitz
When: Sunday, June 28th, 2015
                 10:45 am
Where: St. John Lutheran Church
                 765 Margaret St.
                   651-771-6406
                   Classroom 6
Books can be purchased for $15 per copy

Fun Fest Volunteers Needed

Miss Mercier is planning a Funfest for this September and is looking for volunteers. If you are willing to help plan / organize, set-up, or run the event please send her an email at emercier@stjohnev.net

Letter from Mr. Phil Ewerdt

Members of St. John Lutheran Church and School,

Thank you for all the conversations you have had with us and for all the prayers offered to God on our behalf while I have considered the two divine calls of Wisconsin Lutheran School and St. John. They have been a blessing in evaluating my God given gifts and where I see them best served in his kingdom. What a comfort to know that God works through whatever decision is made. Through these deliberations I have decided to return the call to Wisconsin Lutheran School and stay at St. John. I ask that you continue to pray that God works through me for the advancement of his kingdom. Please also pray that Wisconsin Lutheran School is able to find the person they need to fill their vacancy.

Your brother in Christ,

 

Mr. Phil Ewerdt

 

Anticipating Worship (June 21)

The Fourth Sunday after Pentecost


Worship Focus:  The Church grows because of God’s power behind it.

Scripture Readings:
Ezekiel 17:22-24
Psalm 92
2 Corinthians 5:1-10
Mark 4:26-34

Sermon Text:  Ezekiel 17:22-24

The Lord Promises Results
1.  He does the planting
2.  He causes the growing

Prayer of the Day:  O God, protector of all the faithful, you alone make strong; you alone make holy.  Show us your mercy and forgive our sins day by day.  Guide us through our earthly lives that we do not lose the things that you have prepared for us in heaven; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.  Amen.

Happy Father's Day

Anticipating Worship (June 14)

The Third Sunday after Pentecost


Worship Focus:  God carefully planned to send us a Savior from sin.

Scripture Readings:
Genesis 3:8-15
Psalm 51
2 Corinthians 4:13-18
Mark 3:20-35

Sermon Text:  1 Peter 2:11

Lose the Temptation War:  Be Phoneys

Prayer of the Day:  O God, the strength of all who trust in you, mercifully hear our prayers.  Be gracious to us in our weakness and give us strength to keep your commandments in all we say and do; through Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.  Amen.

We will see God in his grace adopt a baby into his family as he combines water and word in the sacrament of baptism.

Anticipating Worship (June 7)

The Second Sunday after Pentecost


Worship Focus:  God gives us real rest in Jesus.

Scripture Readings:
Deuteronomy 5:12-15
Psalm 126
2 Corinthians 4:5-12
Mark 2:23-28

Sermon Text:  Deuteronomy 5:12-15

Get Some Rest
1.  God gives it
2.  We live it

Prayer of the Day:  O God, you rule over all things in wisdom and kindness.  Take away everything that may be harmful and give us whatever is good; through your Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.  Amen.

Mr. Phil Ewerdt-Divine call received

Dear St. John Lutheran members,

On Monday night I received a call to teach grade six and departmentalized language arts at Wisconsin Lutheran School in Racine, Wisconsin. I ask that you keep my family and me in your prayers as I deliberate between the two calls the Lord of the Church has now placed in front of me. I pray that the Lord gives me wisdom and that his Church is served in the best way possible.

Your Brother in Christ,

Mr. Phil Ewerdt

Anticipating Worship (May 31)

The First Sunday after Pentecost—Holy Trinity


Worship Focus:  Our Triune God—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—works together to save us.

Scripture Readings:
Deuteronomy 6:4-9
Psalm 150
Romans 8:14-17
John 3:1-17

Sermon Text:  Deuteronomy 6:4-9

Remember
1.  Your one God
2.  Your one goal

Prayer of the Day:  Almighty God and Father, dwelling in majesty and mystery, filling and renewing all creation by your eternal Spirit, and manifesting your saving grace through our Lord Jesus Christ:  in mercy cleanse our hearts and lips that, free from doubt and fear, we may ever worship you, one true immortal God, with your Son and the Holy Spirit, living and reigning, now and forever.  Amen.

This Sunday is also graduation for our St. John Lutheran School 8th graders.  Congratulations.

Choir Practice

Just a friendly reminder to our choir members.  There will be practice on Sunday,
May 31st, at 8:30 am, prior to the worship service.

Anticipating Worship (May 24)

The Coming of the Holy Spirit—The Day of Pentecost


Worship Focus:  The Holy Spirit gives life.

Scripture Readings:
Ezekiel 37:1-14
Psalm 51
Acts 2:1-21
John 14:25-27

Sermon Text:  John 14:25-27

Have a Happy Pentecost
1.  With the Spirit's presence
2.  With the Savior's peace

Prayer of the Day:  Holy Spirit, God and Lord, come to us this joyful day with your sevenfold gift of grace.  Rekindle in our hearts the holy fire of your love that in a true and living faith we may tell abroad the glory of our Savior, Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you and the Father, one God, now and forever.  Amen.

Happy Pentecost.

Anticipating Worship (May 17)

Seventh Sunday of Easter


Worship Focus:  The risen and ascended Lord prepares his Church for its work.

Scripture Readings:
Acts 1:15-26
Psalm 8
1 John 4:13-21
John 17:11b-19

Sermon Text:  1 John 4:13-21

There Is Reason for the Repetition of Love
1.  Love found in the Savior
2.  Love flowing from the Source

Prayer of the Day:  Almighty God, your Son our Savior was taken up in glory and intercedes for us at your right hand.  Through your living and abiding Word, give us hearts to know him and faith to follow where he has gone; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.  Amen.

Happy Easter.  (This is the final Sunday in the Easter season.)

Note from Ms. Elaina Mercier...

Ms. Elaina Mercier, Chair of the 8th Grade Banquet, needs your help.
If you could lend a hand and help move tables in the Fellowship Hall after
church on Sunday for the upcoming 8th Grade Banquet it would be greatly appreciated. You may contact Ms. Mercier at emercier@stjohnev.net.

Letter from Ms. Cindy Lendt

Dear members of St. John, 

So many of you have talked with me, emailed me, and prayed for me that I don't even know how to begin to thank you. You've been especially helpful as I've deliberated a call to teach in Lakewood, Washington. For 3 weeks I've been looking very hard at where my talents fit best: either at St. John or at Lakewood Lutheran School. This past week I've solidified my decision: I am returning the call to Lakewood Lutheran. Lord-willing, I will continue to serve here at St. John.

Please remember Lakewood Lutheran in your prayers. God is accomplishing some wonderful things at their church and school, so please pray that God blesses them with the right teacher soon. May God continue to bless his ministry all over the world as we serve our Lord and Savior.

Your sister in Christ,

Cindy Lendt  

Anticipating Worship (May 10)

Sixth Sunday of Easter


Worship Focus:  Learning about our risen Savior’s love leads to living in Christian love.

Scripture Readings:
Acts 11:19-26
Psalm 98
1 John 4:1-11
John 15:9-17

Sermon Text:  Acts 11:19-26

Learn from the Mother Church
1.  To be sharing
2.  To be caring

Prayer of the Day:  Father of lights, every good and perfect gift comes from you.  Inspire us to think those things that are true and long for those things that are good, that we may always make our petitions according to your gracious will; through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.  Amen.

Happy Mother's Day.

And Happy Easter.

Anticipating Worship (May 3)

Fifth Sunday of Easter


Worship Focus:  Faith connects us to our risen Savior, the Vine who is our source of life.

Scripture Readings:
Acts 8:26-40
Psalm 67
1 John 3:18-24
John 15:1-8

Sermon Text:  Acts 8:26-40

We Have Good Answers to Good Questions
1.  Explained by people
2.  Revealed through Scripture
3.  Assured in baptism

Prayer of the Day:
O God, you form the minds of your faithful people into a single will.  Make us love what you command and desire what you promise, that among the many changes of this world, our hearts may ever yearn for the lasting joys of heaven; through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.  Amen.

This Sunday is also Confirmation.  Please keep our one confirmand in your prayers as she promises to be faithful to her God who is faithful to her.

Happy Easter.

Anticipating Worship (April 26)

Fourth Sunday of Easter

Worship Focus:  The risen Jesus, the Good Shepherd, unites his sheep.

Scripture Readings:

Acts 4:23-33

Psalm 23

1 John 3:1,2

John 10:11-18

Sermon Text:  John 10:11-18

Jesus Is the Good Shepherd

1.  Because of his commitment

2.  Because of his care

Prayer of the Day:  O Lord Jesus Christ, you are the Good Shepherd who laid down your life for the sheep.  Lead us now to the still waters of your life-giving Word that we may abide in your Father’s house forevermore; for you live and reign with him and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.  Amen.

Happy Easter.

Memorial Day Service at Elmhurst Cemetery

There will be a Memorial Day Service at Elmhurst Cemetery, Monday, May 25th, beginning at 9:00 am.  Elmhurst Cemetery is located at 1510 N. Dale St., St. Paul.

Letter to congregation from Cindy Lendt.

Dear members of St. John Lutheran,

I want you to know I’ve received a call to teach at Lakewood Lutheran School in Lakewood, Washington. They're asking me to teach Kindergarten and 1st grade, with the opportunity to teach Spanish for the school. Right now I’m considering where my talents would serve God’s kingdom the best: either here at St. John or at Lakewood Lutheran. Please pray that God gives me the wisdom to make the right choice. This kind of decision is hard to make, and I sincerely appreciate your input!

Your sister in Christ,

Cindy Lendt

Anticipating Worship (April 19)

Third Sunday of Easter


Worship Focus:  We build our faith on the crucified and risen Savior.

Scripture Readings:
Acts 4:8-12
Psalm 118
1 John 1:1-2:2
Luke 24:36-49

Sermon Text:  1 John 1:1-2:2

Believe a Witness
1.  As he shares the Word of life
2.  As he shows the way of light

Prayer of the Day:  O God, by the humiliation of your Son you lifted up this fallen world from the despair of death.  By his resurrection to life, grant your faithful people gladness of heart and the hope of eternal joys; through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.  Amen.

Happy Easter.

Anticipating Worship (April 12)

Second Sunday of Easter


Worship Focus:  Faith in Jesus, our risen Lord and Savior, gives Easter blessings—forgiveness and peace.

Scripture Readings:
Acts 3:12-20
Psalm 16
1 John 5:1-6
John 20:19-31

Sermon Text:  1 John 5:1-6

Easter Equals Victory
1.  God gives it
2.  We live it

Prayer of the Day:  O risen Lord, you came to your disciples and took away their fears with your word of peace.  Come to us also by Word and sacrament, and banish our fears with the comforting assurance of your abiding presence; for you live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.  Amen.

Happy Easter!