December 16th Update

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

"Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand!" (Philippians 4:4-5)  With just over a week before we celebrate the Nativity of our Lord Jesus Christ, our life together at Messiah comes into focus around the heart of our faith. 

The Great O Antiphons of the Middle Ages, the roots of the hymn "O Come, O Come, Emmanuel" express our deepest needs as we complete our Advent preparations, asking Jesus for wisdom, redemption, deliverance, rescue, enlightenment and salvation through His Word and Sacraments.  (You can find both the prayers and the hymn at number 357 in Lutheran Service Book - or posted on our Facebook page, one day at a time, starting tomorrow.)  The coming opportunities for you and those you know to receive God's great gifts are listed below

WEEKLY WORSHIP AND CLASS SCHEDULE

  • The Divine Service continues weekly at 10:00 am on Sundays.  Sunday School & Bible Class are held beforehand at 9:00 am, beginning with a joint opening in the Fellowship Hall. 

  • Note that on Sunday, December 22nd, Seminarian Gavin Johnson (grandson of Richard & Ann Tank) will serve as our guest preacher!

  • Livestreams of all our services can be found at


ADVENT & CHRISTMAS WORSHIP SCHEDULE

  • MIdweek Advent Services conclude on this Wednesday, December 18th at 11:00 am.

  • Christmas Reflections (Lessons and Carols) will be held this Wednesday, December 18th at 7:00 pm.  Cookies & beverages courtesy of our Parish Services Guild will follow the service.

  • Special services for the Christmas season include:

    • Christmas Eve Family Candlelight Service, Tuesday, December 24th at 7:00 pm.

    • Christmas Day Divine Service, Wednesday, December 25th at 10:00 am.

    • New Year's Day Divine Service, Wednesday, January 1st, 2025 at 10:00 am

    • Epiphany Divine Service, Monday, January 6th, 2025 at 7:00 pm.  This will be a joint service held at St. Peter's Lutheran Church in Rockford.

  • Invitations for our Christmas Reflections and Christmas Eve services are available at the Welcome Center.  Please use them to invite friends, relatives, neighbors and colleagues to rejoice with us that the Lord Jesus is at hand!  Invitations for each service come in greeting card and business card formats, there's also a two-sided flyer version with website information included.

"Rejoice!  Rejoice!  Emmanuel shall come to thee, O Israel!" (LSB 357)  “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel.” (Mark 1:15)  May we rejoice, and turn, and believe, renewing and strengthening our faith in our Savior in this last week of Advent & the 12 days of Christmas that follow.

Yours in Him,


Pastor Eric Black & Rick Krueger, Parish Assistant

P.S. Please enjoy this video of ourPreschool Christmas Service, held last Wednesday night; thanks to everyone who braved the winter weather to take part! Click here for the service folder.

Gina Griffis, 1962-2024

Dear brothers and sisters at Messiah,

Our sister in Christ Gina Griffis was called home to be with our Lord on Wednesday, November 27th, 2024, at the age of 62, following an extended bout with cancer. Gina, her husband Rich, and their children Megan & Mitch became members of Messiah in 1996.  Throughout her years at Messiah, Gina was faithful in worship and Bible study and active in the areas of outreach, education and youth ministry. 

We mourn Gina's passing with Rich, Megan, Mitch and all of her family and friends.  But we also rejoice that Gina is free from her earthly sufferings, and is now in the presence of her Savior Jesus Christ, awaiting the resurrection of the body on the last day.

Visitation for Gina will be held at Messiah on Friday, December 13th from 5:00 to 7:00 pm.  Gina's funeral service will be held at Messiah on Saturday, December 14th at 11:00 am, with visitation beforehand at 10:00 am and a luncheon following the service.  Click here to view Gina's complete obituary.

Please keep all those who knew and loved Gina in your prayers in the coming days; feel free to use the prayer below as a model.

Lord God, maker of heaven and earth and giver of life, we thank You for all the mercies You granted to our sister Gina during her earthly life, especially for calling her to faith in Jesus Christ. Comfort all the survivors who mourn Gina's death with the hope of the glorious resurrection and a joyful reunion in heaven. Keep us mindful that we are mortal so that we will ever be prepared to die in the faith and finally receive the glory promised to all who trust in Your beloved Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord.  Amen.

Yours in Him,

Pastor Eric Black & Rick Krueger
Messiah Lutheran Church

November 27th Update

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Tonight at 7:00 pm, we gather at Messiah for our joint Thanksgiving Eve service with our neighbors in faith from St. Peter's Lutheran Church in Rockford.  Then, this coming Sunday, Advent begins. Lots to cover this time around! 

WEEKLY WORSHIP AND CLASS SCHEDULE


ADVENT & CHRISTMAS WORSHIP SCHEDULE

  • MIdweek Advent Services begin on Wednesday, December 4th.

    • Services of Prayer & Preaching will be offered at 11:00 am on December 4th, 11th and 18th, as well as at 7:00 pm on December 4th. 

  • Wednesday evening Advent services will also include:

    • Our Preschool Christmas Service on December 11th at 6:30 pm.

    • Christmas Reflections (Lessons and Carols) on December 18th at 7:00 pm. 

  • Special services for the Christmas season will include:

    • Christmas Eve Family Candlelight Service, Tuesday, December 24th at 7:00 pm.

    • Christmas Day Divine Service, Wednesday, December 25th at 10:00 am.

    • New Year's Day Divine Service, Wednesday, January 1st, 2025 at 10:00 am

    • Epiphany Divine Service, Monday, January 6th, 2025 at 7:00 pm.  This will be a joint service held at St. Peter's Lutheran Church in Rockford.


DECEMBER NEWSLETTER + WHAT'S NEW AND NEXT
Our December newsletter is now online!  Click here to view or download it in its entirety.  We also post the newsletter (including monthly calendars) and our weekly announcements online at www.messiahgr.org/news; calendars are also online separately at www.messiahgr.org/calendar.  Be sure to check the newsletter and our weekly announcements  for information on the events listed below:

  • Christmas Bazaar Saturday, December 7th from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm, sponsored by our Parish Services Guild.  If you'd like to help with prep work, volunteer staffing, clean-up, donating items for the Bazaar's Country Store, baking cookies or frosting cookies, talk to a Guild member.  Proceeds support congregational projects and LCMS missions!

  • Christmas Caroling Saturday, December 14th from 3:00 to 6:00 pm.  We'll carol to homebound members and senior living residents; a pizza party at church will follow.  Contact Rick Krueger for more information.

  • Our 2025 Spiritual Growth Seminar is set for Saturday, February 8th.  Rev. Jeffrey Leininger, former campus pastor at Concordia University-Chicago, will be our featured presenter, focusing on the theme Callings for Life: God's Plan, Your Purpose.  More details in the December newsletter; registration will begin early next year.


REACH OUT WITH GOD'S LOVE
Along with the events listed above, there are plenty of opportunites for you to help and reach out to others in the next few weeks:

  • Preschool Fundraiser is happening now through Tuesday, December 3rd.  Grand Rapids Coupon Books are available, with samples and details at the Welcome Center.  Contact our Preschool director Vonda Smestad for more information.

  • Holiday Basket Collection is happening through Sunday, December 15th.  Gift card or monetary donations are welcome for church and community families in need.  Donation envelopes are available at the Welcome Center; contact Joe & Becky Buss for more information.

  • NEW!  Adopt-A-Family Collection starts this coming Sunday!  The Board of Outreach is working with Northview Schools to provide Christmas gifts for a local family in need.  Choose a gift tag from the “Adopt A Family” Christmas tree in the church foyer, then return your gift (boxed & wrapped, with the gift tag attached) under the tree by Sunday, December 15th.  

  • NEW! The Hat and Mitten Tree will be up this coming Sunday, sponsored by the Social Ministry Committee.  Donations of hats, mittens, gloves, and scarves are welcome!  All items will be given to children in our community that need it. Please make sure your items are on the tree by Sunday, December 29th.  

  • NEW! Christmas Card Exchange Board, sponsored by the Social Ministry Commitee.  Sign a Christmas card, enclose a donation, designate "Messiah Christmas Card" and place it in Shirley Kremm's mailbox. Cards will go on the decorated board in the church foyer; donations will be used to help those in need. 

  • NEW!  Invitations for Christmas Reflections and Christmas Eve services will be available at the Welcome Center, beginning this coming Sunday.  Use them to invite friends, relatives, neighbors and colleagues to rejoice with us that the Lord Jesus is at hand!  Invitations for each service come in greeting card and business card formats.

Yours in Him,


Pastor Eric Black & Rick Krueger, Parish Assistant

P.S. Please enjoy a preview of December's Hymn of the Month, "Savior of the Nations, Come" below.  Complete with an introductory quote from Martin Luther, who translated the text from Latin to German, then tightened up the tune for congregations to sing!

November 15th Update

Dear Brothers and Sisters at Messiah,

Halfway into November, opportunities for worship, education, fellowship and service are mounting up.  Details below!
 

WEEKLY WORSHIP AND CLASS SCHEDULE

  • The Divine Service continues weekly at 10:00 am on Sundays.  Sunday School & Bible Class are held beforehand at 9:00 am, beginning with a joint opening in the Fellowship Hall. 

  • Please plan to be with us on Thanksgiving Eve, Wednesday, November 27th at 7:00 pm.  We will welcome our brothers & sisters in Christ from St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Rockford for this joint Divine Service, held at Messiah.  Rev. Jason Peterson will preach and a joint choir will provide musical leadership.

  • Livestreams of our services can be found at

  • CARES (Caring, Active, Reaching, Encouraging Sisters in Christ) continue their weekly sessions on Wednesdays at 9:45 am.  Click here for a sample of this year's CARES book Unfailing: God's Assurance for Times of Change by Rev. Christopher Kennedy.


ADVENT & CHRISTMAS WORSHIP SCHEDULE

  • MIdweek Advent Services begin on Wednesday, December 4th.

    • Services of Prayer & Preaching will be offered at 11:00 am on December 4th, 11th and 18th, as well as at 7:00 pm on December 4th. 

  • Wednesday evening Advent services will also include:

    • Our Preschool Christmas Service on December 11th at 6:30 pm.

    • Christmas Reflections (Lessons and Carols) on December 18th at 7:00 pm. 

  • Special services for the Christmas season will include:

    • Christmas Eve Family Candlelight Service, Tuesday, December 24th at 7:00 pm.

    • Christmas Day Divine Service, Wednesday, December 25th at 10:00 am.

    • New Year's Day Divine Service, Wednesday, January 1st, 2025 at 10:00 am

    • Epiphany Divine Service, Monday, January 6th, 2025 at 7:00 pm.  This will be a joint service held at St. Peter's Lutheran Church in Rockford.

See the online November newsletterfor full details on our Advent & Christmas services.


WHAT'S NEW AND NEXT
We post our newsletter (including monthly calendars) and our weekly announcements online at www.messiahgr.org/news; calendars are also online separately at www.messiahgr.org/calendar.  Check the newsletter and announcements regularly for information on the events listed below:

  • Urdu Worship Service Saturday, November 16th at 5:00 pm.  Led by Pastor Afzal Masih, this service will be held in the fellowship hall, with a Pakistani meal following.  Urdu services are held on the third Saturday of each month; Messiah members and friends are welcome to attend!

  • NEW! Holiday Basket Collection is happening now through Sunday, December 15th.  Gift card or monetary donations are welcome for church and community families in need.  Donation envelopes are available at the Welcome Center; contact Joe & Becky Buss for more information.

  • NEW!  A Preschool Fundraiser is happening now through Tuesday, December 3rd.  Grand Rapids Coupon Books are available, with samples and details at the Welcome Center.  Contact our Preschool director Vonda Smestad for more information.

  • Annual Voters’ Meeting Sunday, November 24th following the Divine Service.  We’ll gather to hear reports and updates, elect officers and board members, and consider the 2025 congregational budget.  A potluck will be held between the service and the meeting.

  • Christmas Bazaar Saturday, December 7th from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm, sponsored by our Parish Services Guild.  If you'd like to help with prep work, volunteer staffing, clean-up, donating items for the Bazaar's Country Store, baking cookies or frosting cookies, talk to a Guild member.  Proceeds support congregational projects and LCMS missions!

  • NEW! Christmas Caroling Saturday, December 14th from 3:00 to 6:00 pm.  We'll carol to homebound members and senior living residents; a pizza party at church will follow.  Contact Rick Krueger for more information.

  • NEW!  Our 2025 Spiritual Growth Seminar is set for Saturday, February 8th.  Rev. Jeffrey Leininger, former campus pastor at Concordia University-Chicago, will be our featured presenter, focusing on the theme Callings for Life: God's Plan, Your Purpose.  Watch for more details in the December newsletter and early next year!


Yours in Christ,

Rick Krueger, Parish Assistant

 
FROM LC-MS PRESIDENT MATT HARRISON
When was the last time you felt like rejoicing? In society today, we don’t always feel like we have a lot to celebrate. Our newsfeeds are constantly filled with stories of wars, disasters, strife in our neighborhoods, illness among our loved ones. Most of us carry this conduit of “bad news” around in our pocket all day every day, and we’re quick to look every time our phone dings. We even invented a new word, “doomscroll,” to describe how it feels to spend a lot of time scrolling through social media. It’s no wonder that rates of anxiety and depression are skyrocketing, especially among young people.

Things were not perfect during the apostle Paul’s time, either. Writing to the Christians in Corinth, Paul wrote of “a thorn … given me in the flesh, a messenger of Satan to harass me” (2 Corinthians 12:7).  Later, he would be martyred for the faith in Rome. Even so, he wrote to the Christians in Philippi: “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. … The Lord is at hand” (Philippians 4:4–5).

This Advent season, we rejoice because the Lord is at hand — even for us today. Jesus Christ came to earth as a baby born to the Virgin Mary some 2,000 years ago. Even though He was the Son of God, He took on human flesh and blood in order to also take on the sins of every person who would ever be born. By dying on the cross on Good Friday and rising again on Easter Sunday, He conquered sin, death and the devil — for us. 

That’s something truly worth celebrating! Because Jesus came, we have the assurance that God loves us and keeps us in the palm of His hand, no matter what may come. That’s also why we take time during the busy month of December to study God’s Word in the Bible. Take a break from doomscrolling and join in reflecting on the enormity of what it means that God sent His Son to earth — for us. We call the Gospel message of salvation in Jesus Christ the “Good News,” but it’s really the best news in the world, and it’s worth sharing with everyone.

I invite you to continue faithfully in worship, Bible study and prayer this Advent and Christmas -- and invite others to join you!   You’ll hear the truth about God and His Son, Jesus Christ. You will also learn about why Christians can rejoice, even amid trial and hardship. “The Lord is at hand” for us today, tomorrow and always.

In Christ Jesus,

Rev. Dr. Matthew C. Harrison, President
The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod

October 31st Update

Dear Brothers and Sisters at Messiah,

Blessed All Saints' Eve (in case you ever wondered where the word Halloween comes from, think All Hallows Eve) - and blessed Reformation Day!  We're wrapping up what's been a busy week finishing a busy month. Thanks to all the onsite volunteers who greeted more than 575 guests at our annual Trunk or Treat event, as well as to everyone who donated candy and other supplies.  Thanks also for the fellowship and support you shared with our newest members, who we officially welcomed on Reformation Sunday! 

As the end of the Church Year arrives, opportunities for worship, education, fellowship and service continue into November and beyond.  Details below!

WEEKLY WORSHIP AND CLASS SCHEDULE
NOVEMBER NEWSLETTER + WHAT'S NEW AND NEXT 
FROM PASTOR ERIC
 

WEEKLY WORSHIP AND CLASS SCHEDULE

  • The Divine Service continues weekly at 10:00 am on Sundays.  Sunday School & Bible Class are held beforehand at 9:00 am, beginning with a joint opening in the Fellowship Hall. These special services are coming up:

    • All Saints Sunday, November 3rd.  The Divine Service will include the Commemoration of the Faithful Departed.  (Daylight Savings Time ends this weekend, so be sure to set your clocks back one hour before going to bed on Saturday, November 2nd.)

    • Messiah's 60th Anniversary, Sunday, November 10th.  Pastor Terry Hoese will preach for this celebration, and a dessert reception in the Fellowship Hall will follow the Divine Service.

    • Thanksgiving Eve, Wednesday, November 27th at 7:00 pm.  We welcome our brothers & sisters in Christ from St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Rockford for this joint Divine Service, held at Messiah.  Rev. Jason Peterson will preach and a joint choir will provide musical leadership.

    • Midweek Advent Services begin on Wednesday, December 4th.  Services of Prayer & Preaching will be offered at 11:00 am on December 4th, 11th and 18th, as well as at 7:00 pm on December 4th.  Wednesday Evening services will also include our Preschool Christmas Service on December 11th at 6:30 pm and Christmas Reflections (Lessons and Carols) on December 18th at 7:00 pm.  See the online November newsletter (linked below) for updated details on our Advent & Christmas services.

  • Livestreams of our Divine Services can be found at

  • Fall LifeLight Sessions on The Epistles of John wrap up this month, but's it not too late to join in!  Sessions are held on Tuesdays at 10:30 am and Wednesdays at 6:00 pm.  Click here for a sample of the study guide.

  • CARES (Caring, Active, Reaching, Encouraging Sisters in Christ) continue their weekly sessions on Wednesdays at 9:45 am.  Click here for a sample of this year's CARES book Unfailing: God's Assurance for Times of Change by Rev. Christopher Kennedy.



NOVEMBER NEWSLETTER + WHAT'S NEW AND NEXT
Our November newsletter is now online! Click here to preview or download it in its entirety.  Paper copies of the newsletter are available for members and guests at the Welcome Center.  We also post the newsletter (including monthly calendars) online at www.messiahgr.org/news; calendars are also online separately at www.messiahgr.org/calendar

Check the newsletter and our weekly announcements for information on the events listed below:

  • Altar Guild this Saturday, November 2nd at 9:30 am, preparing for Advent, Christmas and Epiphany!  Contact Carol Mushong for details.

  • Bowling League continues Sunday, November 10th at 3:00pm at Northfield Lanes, bowling every other Sunday through April.  Contact Joanne Gillette for details.

  • Urdu Worship Service Saturday, November 16th at 5:00 pm.  Led by Pastor Afzal Masih, this service will be held in the fellowship hall, with a Pakistani meal following.  Urdu services are held on the third Saturday of each month; Messiah members and friends are welcome to attend!

  • Annual Voters’ Meeting Sunday, November 24th following the Divine Service.  We’ll gather to hear reports and updates, elect officers and board members, and consider the 2025 congregational budget.  A potluck will be held between the service and the meeting.

  • Christmas Bazaar Saturday, December 7th, sponsored by our Parish Services Guild.  If you'd like to help with prep work, volunteer staffing, clean-up and/or baking cookies for this day-long event, talk to a Guild member.  Proceeds support congregational projects and LCMS missions!


Yours in Christ,

Rick Krueger, Parish Assistant

 
FROM PASTOR ERIC (in the November newsletter)
We know all that we have in this life flows from God’s loving hands, we know we are stewards of all that He gives us, we know all that. But we are still tempted so often to hold something back, to keep something, or some part of ourselves tucked away. But Christ did not come to save part of you, and we are not part time workers in God’s kingdom. Sheep or goats, follow Christ or not, all or nothing. Life or death. God or Satan. But even when we want to choose wisely, the flesh is weak.

Thank goodness that Christ was the one putting Satan in his place. As even our youngest children can sing, ‘they are weak but He is strong. Yes! Jesus loves me.’ We are not perfect servants, but our God perfectly serves us. We are not perfect stewards, but our God still blesses us with all that we need and more. We are not perfect children of God, and in fact we are far from perfect, but we have a perfect Savior who fights on our behalf. Each and every day, as we struggle as stewards with our money, with our time, with our talents, we have the perfect Holy Spirit constantly guiding, constantly restoring, constantly, forgiving us and ever growing us closer to God and to each other in the church. 

As we make all these decisions in our lives, how to spend our time, how to serve our neighbor, how much to give, and a thousand other choices, we do so knowing that Christ has chosen us. That our Heavenly Father daily provides. That the Holy Spirit is ever with us, granting us the wisdom and peace that can only come from above, keeping us in the one true faith. We serve, we give, we share, as part of an eternal kingdom, an eternal people, full of eternal life, given and shared freely with us, by our servant king, our brother and redeemer, Jesus Christ, Amen.


A MUSICAL POSTSCRIPT
Following up on our last update's Reformation video, here's a hymn for today, tomorrow, this coming Sunday and on into eternity:

Marian Meehleder, 1927-2024

Dear brothers and sisters at Messiah,

Our sister in Christ Marian Meehleder was called home to be with our Lord on Thursday, October 17, 2024, at the age of 97. Marian and her husband Tom (who passed away in 1996) became members of Messiah in 1981.  Throughout her years at Messiah, Marian was faithful in worship and Bible study and active in the Parish Services and Altar Guilds, music, outreach and many other areas of our life together. After her move to Florida in 2018, Marian stayed in touch with many friends at Messiah and was grateful for our livestreams of the Divine Service.

We mourn Marian's passing with all of her family and friends.  But we also rejoice that Marian is free from her earthly sufferings, and is now in the presence of her Savior Jesus Christ, awaiting the resurrection of the body on the last day.

Marian's funeral service will be held at Cunningham-Taylor Funeral Home 312 Midland Rd. Auburn, Michigan on Thursday, October 24, 2024, with visitation at 10:00 am and service at 11:00 am. Burial following at Home Cemetery, 8 Mile Rd. in Monitor Township.The family invites attendees to join them for lunch afterward at O’s Pub and Grill, 123 E. Midland St., Auburn.  Click here to view Marian's complete obituary.

Please keep all those who knew and loved Marian in your prayers in the coming days; feel free to use the prayer below as a model.

Lord God, maker of heaven and earth and giver of life, we thank You for all the mercies You granted to our sister Marian during her earthly life, especially for calling her to faith in Jesus Christ. Comfort all the survivors who mourn Marian's death with the hope of the glorious resurrection and a joyful reunion in heaven. Keep us mindful that we are mortal so that we will ever be prepared to die in the faith and finally receive the glory promised to all who trust in Your beloved Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord.  Amen.

Yours in Him,

Pastor Eric Black & Rick Krueger
Messiah Lutheran Church

October 17th Update

Dear Brothers and Sisters at Messiah,

During the next few weeks, our worship services focus on the end of the Church Year and a number of special festivals; our education emphasis gathers speed and moves forward, and there will be plenty of opportunities for fellowship, outreach and service! 
 

WEEKLY WORSHIP AND CLASS SCHEDULE

  • The Divine Service continues weekly at 10:00 am on Sundays.  Sunday School & Bible Class are held beforehand at 9:00 am, beginning with a joint opening in the Fellowship Hall. These special services are coming up:

    • Reformation Sunday, October 27th.  It's also New Member Sunday!  We will officially welcome those who have joined our fellowship since January 2023 in that morning's Divine Service.  A Welcome Potluck in the Fellowship Hall will follow; please bring a main dish, salad or dessert to pass.

    • All Saints Sunday, November 3rd.  Our Divine Service will include the Commemoration of the Faithful Departed.  If you would like your departed Christian loved ones & friends included in this prayer of thanksgiving for God's grace and mercy, please return the slips available at Messiah's Welcome Center by Sunday, October 27th.

    • Messiah's 60th Anniversary, Sunday, November 10th.  Pastor Terry Hoese will preach for this celebration, and a dessert reception in the Fellowship Hall will follow the Divine Service.

    • Thanksgiving Eve, Wednesday, November 27th at 7:00 pm.  We welcome our brothers & sisters in Christ from St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Rockford for this joint Divine Service, held at Messiah.  Rev. Jason Peterson will preach and a joint choir will provide musical leadership.

  • Livestreams of our Divine Services can be found at

  • Fall LifeLight Sessions are focusing on The Epistles of John, held on Tuesdays at 10:30 am and Wednesdays at 6:00 pm.  Click here for a sample of the study guide.

  • CARES (Caring, Active, Reaching, Encouraging Sisters in Christ) continue their weekly sessions on Wednesdays at 9:45 am.  Click here for a sample of this year's CARES book Unfailing: God's Assurance for Times of Change by Rev. Christopher Kennedy.


TRUNK OR TREAT - CAN YOU HELP?
Our annual community event isThursday, October 24th from 6:00 to 7:30 pm-- just a week from tonight!  The Board of Outreach is delighted with your response and thanks everyone who has volunteered and donated candy and food.  There are still opportunities for volunteers to serve in the areas listed below:

  • Treaters (bring your car trunk and candy.  Prizes given for best costume and best decorations!)

  • Food and Beverage Runners

  • Carnival Game Staffers

  • General Helpers


And we are still in need of donations of the following food items:

  • Juice Boxes

  • Bottled Water (8 ounce size)

  • Buttered Popcorn (bulk bags - 16 ounces or larger)


You can sign up to help or donate at Messiah's Welcome Center through this coming Sunday.  Volunteers and donors will receive an email with final details next week.  There will also be promotional flyers for you to share with others! 


WHAT'S NEW AND NEXT:
Check Messiah's online News page (featuring regularly updated links to the latest newsletter and weekly announcements) for more information on the events listed below.

  • Fall Clean-Up Saturday, October 19th from 8:00 am to 12 noon, sponsored by the Board of Trustees.  Contact Carol Mushong for details, or just come ready to help!

  • Urdu Worship Service Saturday, October 19th at 5:00 pm.  Led by Pastor Afzal Masih, this service will be held in the fellowship hall, with a Pakistani meal following.  Urdu services are held on the third Saturday of each month; Messiah members and friends are welcome to attend!

  • Bowling League continues Sunday, October 27th at 3:00pm at Northfield Lanes, bowling every other Sunday through April.  Contact Joanne Gillette for details.

  • Secret Prayer Pals Sunday, October 27th at 6:00 pm.  Ladies of the congregation are invited to an evening of food and fellowship.  Contact Deb Krueger for details.

  • Altar Guild Saturday, November 2nd at 9:30 am, preparing for Advent, Christmas and beyond!  Contact Carol Mushong for details.

  • NEW!  Annual Voters’ Meeting Sunday, November 24th following the Divine Service.  We’ll gather to hear reports and updates, elect officers and board members, and consider the 2025 congregational budget.  A potluck will be held between the service and the meeting.


Yours in Christ,
Rick Krueger, Parish Assistant

P.S.  And, just to confirm it's that time of year again . . .

Alice Feigel, mother of Renee Davis, 1927-2024

Dear brothers and sisters at Messiah,

Alice Feigel, the mother of our sister in Christ Renee Davis, was called home to be with our Lord on Friday, October 4th, 2024, at the age of 97. Alice remained a faithful member of Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Engadine, Michigan throughout her life, but she became a familiar face at Messiah in recent years, after she moved to Grand Rapids and settled into independent living.  We were privileged to minister to her.

We mourn Alice's passing with Renee, Theodore, C.J. and the rest of her family and friends.  But we also rejoice that Alice is free from her earthly sufferings, and is now in the presence of her Savior Jesus Christ, awaiting the resurrection of the body on the last day.

Alice's funeral service will be held at Bethelem Lutheran Church (N8696 M-117, Engadine, MI 49827) on Friday, October 11th at 11:00 am, with visitation for an hour before the service.  Memorials may be given to Bethlehem Lutheran Church.  Click here for Alice's complete obituary.

Please keep all those who knew and loved Alice in your prayers in the coming days; feel free to use the prayer below as a model.

Lord God, maker of heaven and earth and giver of life, we thank You for all the mercies You granted to our sister Alice during her earthly life, especially for calling her to faith in Jesus Christ. Comfort Renee, Theodore, C.J. and all the survivors who mourn Alice's death with the hope of the glorious resurrection and a joyful reunion in heaven. Keep us mindful that we are mortal so that we will ever be prepared to die in the faith and finally receive the glory promised to all who trust in Your beloved Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord.  Amen.

Yours in Him,

Pastor Eric Black & Rick Krueger
Messiah Lutheran Church

September 30th Update

Dear Brothers and Sisters at Messiah,

Fall has only begun, but October - and even November - are coming on strong at Messiah, with opportunities aplenty for worship, education, fellowship and service!
 

WEEKLY WORSHIP AND CLASS SCHEDULE


OCTOBER NEWSLETTER - PLUS WHAT'S NEW & NEXT
Our October newsletter is now online! Click here to preview or download it in its entirety.  Paper copies of the newsletter are available for members and guests at the Welcome Center.  We also post the newsletter (including monthly calendars) online at www.messiahgr.org/news; calendars are also online separately at www.messiahgr.org/calendar

Check the newsletter and our weekly announcements for information on the events listed below.

  • Lutheran Women in Mission Sunday, October 6th.  A door offering for mites and national mission grants will be received.

  • Harvest Dinner & Bake Sale Sunday, October 13th after the Divine Service, sponsored by the Parish Services Guild.  Contact Guild members for tickets.

  • NEW! Bowling League begins Sunday, October 13th at 3:00pm at Northfield Lanes, bowling every other Sunday through April.  Contact Joanne Gillette for details.

  • Lutherans for Life executive director Rev. Michael Salemink speaks on Saturday, October 19th at Hope Lutheran Church in Dewitt.  This event runs from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm.  Click here to preregister (required); registration cost ($25/adult, $15/student) payable at the door.

  • Fall Clean-Up Saturday, October 19th from 8:00 am to 12 noon, sponsored by the Board of Trustees.  Contact Carol Mushong for details.

  • LWML Fall Rally Saturday, October 19th starting at 9:30 am at Bethel Lutheran Church in Howard City.  To RSVP, sign up at the Welcome Center or click here by Friday, October 11th.

  • Urdu Worship Service Saturday, October 19th at 5:00 pm.  Led by Pastor Afzal Masih, this service will be held in the fellowship hall, with a Pakistani meal following.  Urdu services are held on the third Saturday of each month; Messiah members and friends are welcome to attend!

  • Trunk or Treat Thursday, October 24th from 6:00 to 7:30 pm, sponsored by the Board of Outreach.  Volunteer sign-ups and donation bins are now out at Messiah's Welcome Center.

  • NEW! New Member Sunday October 27th. We'll officially welcome our new brothers & sisters in Christ during the Divine Service.  A potluck will follow the service, sponsored by the Board of Outreach; please plan to bring a main dish, salad or dessert.

  • NEW!  Secret Prayer Pals Sunday, October 27th at 6:00 pm.  Contact Deb Krueger for details.


And, NEW! on the calendar for early November:

  • Altar Guild, Saturday, November 2nd at 9:30 am.

  • Commemoration of the Faithful Departed Sunday, November 3rd

  • Messiah's 60th Anniversary Celebration,Sunday, November 10th


Yours in Christ,    
Rick Krueger, Parish Assistant


FROM PASTOR ERIC (IN THE OCTOBER NEWSLETTER) 
Sometimes the church has a tendency to proclaim that life in the church is care free, happier, more comfortable, just plain better all around, and sometimes we even expect this, demand it. We are the faithful, therefore our lives should be like -  fill in the blank here! ...

From the moment we were given faith, a contest of wills began, mine vs. God’s. And we have many allies close at hand, sin, death, and Satan, all supportive of our will’s independence from God. To win, to achieve true victory in this contest, we have but one recourse, to surrender. And then we are reminded we are not here to be better at all, at least as we compete in our own minds, we are here simply to be loved by God. And through God’s love, we get to love others, not because they are better, but simply because they too are here to be loved. ...

The world would have us think the good life is one way, a way of comfort, and popularity, of power, and even a certain kind of peace, but [all God's saints are] pulled into the true life. A life of surrender to God’s will, of conforming our lives to Christ, a life of struggle against our own wills, but a life, and a victory, that surpasses anything and everything this world can offer. 

Saint Augustine asks, ‘Who am I and what am I?’ We know the answer. We are sons and daughters of God, children of the promise, heirs of the eternal kingdom, we are loved by God, amen.


Your brother in Christ, 
Pastor Eric

September 12th Update

Dear Brothers and Sisters at Messiah,

September's speeding by; life at Messiah has shifted up a gear -- and October will bring even more opportunities for worship, education, fellowship and service! 
 

WEEKLY WORSHIP AND CLASS SCHEDULE

  • The Divine Service continues weekly at 10:00 am on Sundays.  Sunday School & Bible Class are held beforehand at 9:00 am, beginning with a joint opening in the Fellowship Hall.  Livestreams of our Sunday Services can be found at


WHAT'S NEW & NEXT
Check Messiah's September newsletter and our weekly announcements for information on the events listed below.

  • Family Game Night this Saturday, September 14th from 5:00 to 7:00 pm in our Fellowship Hall, sponsored by Lutherans in Fellowship Together (LIFT).  Bring a game and a snack to share!

  • Fall LifeLight Sessions will focus on The Epistles of John, held on Tuesdays at 10:30 am beginning September 17th and Wednesdays at 6:00 pm beginning September 18th.  Click here for a sample of the study guide.

  • Urdu Worship Service Saturday, September 21st at 5:00 pm.  Led by Pastor Masih, this service will be held in the fellowship hall, with a Pakistani meal following.  Urdu services are held on the third Saturday of each month; Messiah members and friends are welcome to attend!

  • Mission Festival Sunday, September 22nd, with Pastor Dave Reed of Orphan Grain Train-Michigan as our guest preacher and Bible Class presenter.  A potluck will follow the Divine Service: a door offering for Orphan Grain Train will be taken.  You can donate other items to OGT, too; see the display at the Welcome Center for details!

  • Family Movie Night Friday, September 27th, beginning at 6:00 pm.  Everyone in our church & preschool communities is invited to our Fellowship Hall for the movie Finding Nemo and snacks provided by the Board of Education; bring lawn chairs or blankets for informal seating!

And watch for information in upcoming bulletins and the October newsletter about these many NEW events:

  • Lutheran Women's Missionary League Sunday, October 6th.

  • Lutherans for Life of Michigan welcomes Rev. Dr. Gregory Seltz, Executive Director of the Lutheran Center for Religious Liberty to St. Mark Lutheran Church in Kentwood on Sunday, October 6th from 2:00 to 5:30 pm.  Click here to register for this free event by Monday, September 23rd.

  • CARES (Caring, Active, Reaching, Encouraging Sisters in Christ) begin their fall sessions

    Wednesday, October 9th at 9:45 am.  Click here for a sample of this year's CARES book Unfailing: God's Assurance for Times of Change by Rev. Christopher Kennedy.

  • Harvest Dinner Sunday, October 13th after the Divine Service, sponsored by the Parish Services Guild.

  • Fall Clean-Up Saturday, October 19th from 8:00 am to 12 noon, sponsored by the Board of Trustees.

  • LWML Rally Saturday, October 19th starting at 9:30 am at Bethel Lutheran Church in Howard City.  Sign up at the Welcome Center or click here to RSVP.

  • Lutherans for Life executive director Rev. Michael Salemink speaks on Saturday, October 19th at Hope Lutheran Church in Dewitt.  This event runs from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm.  Click here to preregister (required); registration cost ($25/adult, $15/student) payable at the door.

  • Trunk or Treat, Thursday, October 24th from 6:00 to 7:30 pm, sponsored by the Board of Outreach.  Volunteer sign-ups and donation bins will be available starting this Sunday at Messiah's Welcome Center.

  • New Member Sunday, October 27th.


Yours in Christ,    
Rick Krueger, Parish Assistant


FROM PASTOR ERIC 
"The Bible tells us to love our neighbors, and also to love our enemies; probably because they are generally the same people." G. K. Chesterton. 

Tis the season for yard signs of a political nature.  As I drive to church each morning, more and more seem to be popping up.  One for this side, the other for that side, sometimes in adjacent yards.  It is, unfortunately, not difficult to imagine some heated discussions taking place, often beginning with something seemingly innocuous.  A few leaves blowing across the property line, a toy left in a neighbor’s yard, or even just the presence of the signs themselves, all leading to less than neighborly exchanges.  But as Christians we are reminded that God is not neutral in such matters.

The Lord and Creator of all has very clear instructions for how we are to handle the ‘other side.’  Love them.  "You, yes you, the one I brought into existence, the one I died for, the one I will raise from the dead, you go love them.  Because all that I did and do for you, applies to them as well."  Also, it is a command, from God, the LAW you might say, so we have no choice.  We love our neighbors as ourselves, or we sin against God.  

Do note, we are not commanded to agree with, or even to like, our neighbors, and stating the truth to combat a falsehood is a way in which we show love, but how we do this matters.  How we speak, how we act, is all to be done out of love, selfless love.  And in this we are reminded, in all seasons, through all elections, through all changes, this is a reflection of how God loves us.  Thankfully His love is perfect, granting us forgiveness for all those times we fail to love our neighbor, but never letting us give up on showing His love for the world, all those He has made our neighbors, all those He loves, amen.

August 28th Update

Dear Brothers and Sisters at Messiah,

Thanks to everyone who helped make August's Community Picnic such a special event - hosting church, preschool and neighborhood folks for lunch, games and a visit from the Plainfield Township Fire Department at our pavilion!  (Check out photos here.)

We have plenty of great things happening in September, too!   

WEEKLY WORSHIP AND CLASS SCHEDULE

  • We will continue to hold one Divine Service held at 10:00 am on Sundays.  Sunday School & Bible Class will be held beforehand at 9:00 am, beginning with a joint opening in the Fellowship Hall.  Sunday Services can be found at


SEPTEMBER NEWSLETTER PLUS WHAT'S NEW & NEXT
Our September newsletter is now online! Click here to preview or download it in its entirety. Paper copies of the newsletter are available for members and guests at the Welcome Center.  We also post the newsletter (including monthly calendars) online at www.messiahgr.org/news; calendars are also online separately at www.messiahgr.org/calendar


Check the newsletter and our weekly announcements for information on most of the events listed below.

  • NEW!  The funeral for our brother in Christ Tom Driscoll will be held at Messiah this Friday, August 30th at 11:00 am.  Visitation with the family will take place before the service, beginning at 10:00 am; a luncheon will follow the service.

  • The memorial service for our sister in Christ Pat Hoffman will be held at Messiah this Saturday, August 31st at 11:00 am.  Visitation with the family will take place before the service, beginning at 9:00 am; a luncheon will follow the service.

  • As mentioned above, Sunday School restarts Sunday, September 8th at 9:00 am.  Want to help, or have questions?  Contact me or Allison Black for details.

  • NEW!  Senior Choir begins weekly practices Wednesday, September 11th at 7:00 pm in the sanctuary.  Contact me for more information - or just stop by and try us out!

  • Family Game Night Saturday, September 14th from 5:00 to 7:00 pm in our Fellowship Hall, sponsored by Lutherans in Fellowship Together (LIFT).  Bring a game and a snack to share.

  • NEW!  Fall LifeLight Sessions will focus on The Epistles of John, held on Tuesdays at 10:30 am beginning September 17th and Wednesdays at 6:00 pm beginning September 18th.  Click here for a sample of the study guide.

  • Mission Festival Sunday, September 22nd, with Pastor Dave Reed of Orphan Grain Train-Michigan as our guest preacher and Bible Class presenter.  A potluck will follow the Divine Service: a door offering for Orphan Grain Train will be taken.  You can donate other items to OGT, too (details are in the newsletter)

  • Family Movie Night Friday, September 27th, beginning at 6:00 pm.  Everyone in our church & preschool communities is invited to our Fellowship Hall for a movie and snacks provided by the Board of Education; bring lawn chairs or blankets for informal seating!  More details soon.


Yours in Christ,    
Rick Krueger, Parish Assistant


FROM PASTOR ERIC (See the full article in the September newsletter)
Increasingly it seems every conflict, be it political, religious, even sports at times, seems of the existential variety. Every fight is the ultimate fight, every battle is the most important battle, no ground must ever be surrendered, no enemy is to be spared, there seems little room for peace. [The life of] Boniface [the evangelist to the Germans] then serves as an excellent example of how to face such hostility.

Lesson one, we cannot join it. We stand our ground, we stand on the word of God, we do not strike back, we do not kill, we do not even harm. We stand because we are here to witness to the very ones striking us. We ‘fight’ back by not fighting back, and instead pouring out the love of God for those Christ has placed in front of us. 

The second lesson is closely tied to the first, especially in our day and age. It is one thing to surrender to abuse for the sake of Christ, but the second lesson is that we must reveal idols for what they are. In a culture that worships prosperity, power, popularity, happiness, and especially the self, where do we aim our axes? In a culture where the self is god, the most we can do then, is to deny ourselves for the sake of others, just as Boniface did . . .

In every child we love, in every committed marriage, in every act of service for our neighbor, we deny ourselves for the sake of someone else. In every denial of self we take another swing at the idol of our day, in the hope that one day the Holy Spirit will finally topple it. In the meantime we must keep swinging. We must share God’s peace, share the love of God in Christ Jesus, who demonstrated the ultimate denial of self. In so doing we are reminded of this love of God poured out for us, the good news passed down by the faithful like Boniface, all so that we might stand alongside Christ in His kingdom forevermore, amen. 


Your brother in Christ, 
Pastor Eric

Tom Driscoll, 1943-2024

Dear brothers and sisters at Messiah,

Our brother in Christ Tom Driscoll was called home to be with our Lord on Wednesday, August 21, 2024, at the age of 81, following a lengthly illness. Tom became a member of Messiah in 1993 and married our sister in Christ Karen Denniston in 1997; throughout his time here, Tom continued to be faithful and active in worship, Bible study and fellowship.

We grieve over Tom's passing with Karen and her daughter Doreen, and with all of Tom's family and friends.  But we are also grateful that Tom is free from his earthly sufferings, and is now in the presence of his Savior Jesus Christ, awaiting the resurrection of the body on the last day.

The funeral service for Tom will be held at Messiah on Friday, August 30th at 11:00 am, with visitation beginning at 10:00 am and a luncheon following the service. Tom's complete obituary will be available soon at Stegenga Funeral Chapel's website.

Please keep all those who knew and loved Tom in your prayers in the coming days; feel free to use the prayer below as a model.

Lord God, maker of heaven and earth and giver of life, we thank You for all the mercies You granted to our brother Tom during his earthly life, especially for calling him to faith in Jesus Christ. Comfort Karen, Doreen and all the survivors who mourn Tom's death with the hope of the glorious resurrection and a joyful reunion in heaven. Keep us mindful that we are mortal so that we will ever be prepared to die in the faith and finally receive the glory promised to all who trust in Your beloved Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord.  Amen.

Yours in Him,

Pastor Eric Black & Rick Krueger
Messiah Lutheran Church

August 15th Update

Dear Brothers and Sisters at Messiah,

Plenty of reminders and new opportunities for worship, education, fellowship and service at Messiah this time around! 
 

WEEKLY WORSHIP AND CLASS SCHEDULE

  • We continue with one Divine Service held at 10:00 am on Sundays.  Bible Class is held beforehand at 9:00 am.  Sunday Services are scheduled to be livestreamed at

  • We will also hold Divine Service on Monday nights at 7:00 pm through August 26th.


WHAT'S NEW & NEXT
Check the August newsletter and our weekly announcements for reminders of these and other events:

  • Sign-ups continue for our Meet and Eat Fellowship Groups; check out the Welcome Center at church for more details.

  • Urdu Worship Service this Saturday, August 17th at 5:00 pm.  Led by Pastor Masih, this service will be held in the fellowship hall, with a Pakistani meal following.  Urdu services are held on the third Saturday of each month; Messiah members and friends are welcome to attend.

  • Community Picnic Sunday, August 25th following the Divine Service, sponsored by the Board of Outreach.  Sign up to bring food or help with games for all ages by this Sunday, August 18th at the Welcome Center or in Bible Class; we'll also be joined by members of the Plainfield Township Fire Department.  Members of our community are already RSVPing for this event!  Please share this event link with your friends: Community Picnic Info/ RSVP

  • NEW!  The memorial service for our sister in Christ Pat Hoffman will be held at Messiah on Saturday, August 31st at 11:00 am.  Visitation with the family will take place before the service, beginning at 9:00 am; a luncheon will follow the service.

  • NEW!  Sunday School restarts Sunday, September 8th at 9:00 am.  Want to help, or have questions?  Contact me or Allison Black for details.

  • NEW!  Family Game Night Saturday, September 14th from 5:00 to 7:00 pm in our Fellowship Hall, sponsored by Lutherans in Fellowship Together (LIFT).  Bring a game and a snack to share.

  • Mission Festival Sunday, September 22nd, with Pastor David Reed of Orphan Grain Train-Michigan as our guest preacher and Bible Class presenter.  A potluck will follow the Divine Service: a door offering for Orphan Grain Train will be taken.  You can donate other items to OGT, too (more details coming soon).

  • NEW!  Family Movie Night Friday, September 27th, beginning at 6:00 pm.  Everyone in our church & preschool communities is invited to our Fellowship Hall for a movie and snacks provided by the Board of Education; bring lawn chairs or blankets for informal seating!  More details soon.


THIS DAY IN THE CHURCH YEAR
August 15th is the day when the Church remembers God's grace and mercy to the virgin Mary, Mother of Our Lord Jesus Christ.  In Martin Luther's words, "Mary confesses that the foremost work God did for her was that He regarded her . . . For where it comes to pass that God turns His face toward one to regard him, there is nothing but grace & salvation, and all gifts & works must follow . . . she does not say that men will speak all manner of good of her, praise her virtues, exalt her virginity or her humility, or sing of what she has done.  But for the one thing alone, that God regarded her, men will call her blessed."  We thank and praise our heavenly Father for regarding us as He did Mary and all the saints who have gone before us!

This past Monday, one of the finest hymwriters of the 20th century, Anglican bishop Timothy Dudley-Smith, went to be with His Lord at the age of 97.  It's only fitting to share with you Pastor Dudley-Smith's most well-known hymn:Tell Out, My Soul, the Greatness of the Lord, a paraphrase of Mary's song of praise recorded in the Gospel of Luke. If you haveLutheran Service Bookhandy, why not turn to hymn 935 and sing along with the video below?


Yours in Christ,    
Rick Krueger, Parish Assistant


Pat Hoffman, 1935-2024

Dear brothers and sisters at Messiah,

Our sister in Christ Patricia (Pat) Hoffman was called home to be with our Lord on Wednesday, August 7th, 2024, at the age of 89. Pat became a member of Messiah in 2009; she was faithful in worship and Bible study until she was no longer able to attend regularly.  Pat was especially grateful for the visits she received from Messiah's pastors and members in recent years.

We mourn Pat's passing with her son Jim, daughter-in-law Sandy, grandsons Jake, Joe and Jon, and all of her family and friends.  But we also rejoice that Pat is free from her earthly sufferings, and is now in the presence of her Savior Jesus Christ, awaiting the resurrection of the body on the last day.

Pat will be buried privately at Fort Custer Military Cemetery on Monday, August 26th.  The memorial service for Pat will be held at Messiah on Saturday, August 31st at 11:00 am; visitation with the family beforehand will begin at 9:00 am, and a luncheon will follow the service.   Pat's complete obituary will be available soon at Reyers North Valley Chapel's website.

Please keep all those who knew and loved Pat in your prayers in the coming days; feel free to use the prayer below as a model.

Lord God, maker of heaven and earth and giver of life, we thank You for all the mercies You granted to our sister Pat during her earthly life, especially for calling her to faith in Jesus Christ. Comfort Jim, Sandy, Jake, Joe & Jon and all the survivors who mourn Pat's death with the hope of the glorious resurrection and a joyful reunion in heaven. Keep us mindful that we are mortal so that we will ever be prepared to die in the faith and finally receive the glory promised to all who trust in Your beloved Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord.  Amen.

Yours in Him,

Pastor Eric Black & Rick Krueger
Messiah Lutheran Church

July 31st Update

Dear Brothers and Sisters at Messiah,

With the summer moving along so quickly -- and with June and July already behind us -- we hope that these reminders of upcoming opportunities for worship, education, fellowship and service at Messiah will be helpful for you. 
 

WEEKLY WORSHIP AND CLASS SCHEDULE

  • We continue with one Divine Service held at 10:00 am on Sundays.  Bible Class is held beforehand at 9:00 am.  Sunday Services are scheduled to be livestreamed at

  • We will also hold Divine Service on Monday nights at 7:00 pm through August 26th.


AUGUST NEWSLETTER - PLUS WHAT'S NEW & NEXT
Our August newsletter is now online! Click here to preview or download it in its entirety. Paper copies of the newsletter are available for members and guests at the Welcome Center.  We also post the newsletter (including monthly calendars) online at www.messiahgr.org/news; calendars are also online separately at www.messiahgr.org/calendar

Check the newsletter and our weekly announcements for details on these and other events:

  • Our monthly Lutheran Confessions Study will be held tomorrow, Thursday, August 1st at 10:00 am.  Contact Pastor Hoese for more information.

  • NEW!  Sign-ups are now open for our Meet and Eat Fellowship Groups; check out the Welcome Center at church for more details.

  • NEW!  Lutherans in Fellowship Together (LIFT) meet Sunday, August 11th after the Divine Service.  Join us as we brainstorm for upcoming fellowship and service events!

  • Urdu Worship Service Saturday, August 17th at 5:00 pm.  Led by Pastor Masih, this service will be held in the fellowship hall, with a Pakistani meal following.  Urdu services are held on the third Saturday of each month; Messiah members and friends are welcome to attend.

  • Community Picnic Sunday, August 25th following the Divine Service, sponsored by the Board of Outreach.  Volunteer sign-ups are now out on the Welcome Center and in Bible Class.

  • NEW!  Mission Festival Sunday, September 22nd, with Pastor David Reed of Orphan Grain Train-Michigan as our guest preacher and Bible Class presenter.  Mark your calendars now!

And look for our next email update in mid-August. 

Yours in Christ,
Rick Krueger, Parish Assistant


FROM PASTOR ERIC (FROM THE AUGUST NEWSLETTER):
As we go about sharing the faith, living the faith, and engaging with people outside the faith, we must not be surprised that they do not see things as we do. We cannot assume everything we believe is perfectly obvious. It is no use getting offended when we point to something, that to us seems crystal clear, and yet to so many others, looks completely different. We cannot force someone to put on the glasses of faith if you will.  Christ is the one who gave us this sight, we did not choose it or earn it.  So, what do we do?  How can we share these glasses of faith?  Well, that’s easy, by using them.  

Speak of how God sees creation, and all of humanity, and how God sees the person in front of you.  Speak of how you see them, how you love them, how you will care for them, how you will support them, body, mind, and soul, speak of what you see through Christ. Speak the Word. They still may not yet see, then again at one point none of us did either, but they might just begin to wonder. And who knows, a new pair of glasses, crafted by the Holy Spirit Himself, may be on their way, God has an excellent track record of correcting impaired vision.


Your brother in Christ,        
Pastor Eric

July 3rd Update

Dear Brothers and Sisters at Messiah,

Due to the events of this past week, this update comes a bit later than usual.  Thanks so much for your support of last week's Vacation Bible School; you can view a gallery of selected photos here.

Thanks as well for your prayers and Christian care for the families of Jack Keller and Mary Ann Snell in the aftermath of their passing.  Click here for details about funeral arrangements for Jack; please note that Jack's funeral service will be livestreamed, and that a dessert reception in Messiah's fellowship hall will follow the service.  Click here for details about funeral arrangements for Mary Ann.

With the Fourth of July weekend already upon us, we hope that the reminders below of upcoming opportunities for worship, education, fellowship and service at Messiah will be helpful for you. 
 

WEEKLY WORSHIP AND CLASS SCHEDULE

  • We continue with one Divine Service held at 10:00 am on Sundays.  Bible Class is held beforehand at 9:00 am.  Sunday Services are scheduled to be livestreamed at

  • We will also hold Divine Service on Monday nights at 7:00 pm through August 26th.



JULY NEWSLETTER - PLUS WHAT'S NEW & NEXT
Our July newsletter is now online! Click here to preview or download it in its entirety. Paper copies of the newsletter are available for members and guests at the Welcome Center.  We also post the newsletter (including monthly calendars) online at www.messiahgr.org/news; calendars are also online separately at www.messiahgr.org/calendar

Check the newsletter and our weekly announcements for details on these and other events:

  • NEW!  Lutherans in Fellowship Together (LIFT) meet this Sunday, July 7th after the Divine Service.  Join us as we brainstorm for upcoming fellowship and service events!

  • Life Team Service Project next Wednesday, July 10th, 9:00 am to 12:00 noon. Join us as we volunteer at the Pregnancy Resource Center of Grand Rapids' Support Center (on 28th Street in Wyoming)!  Sign up at the Welcome Center or in Bible Class; contact Arlene Mansfield for details. 

  • Our monthly Lutheran Confessions Study will be held next Thursday, July 11th at 10:00 am and Thursday, August 1st at 10:00 am.  Contact Pastor Hoese for more information.

  • Urdu Worship Service Saturday, July 20th at 5:00 pm.  Led by Pastor Masih, this service will be held in the fellowship hall, with a Pakistani meal following.  Urdu services are held on the third Saturday of each month; Messiah members and friends are welcome to attend.

  • Community Picnic Sunday, August 25th following the Divine Service, sponsored by the Board of Outreach.  Watch for more details and volunteer sign-ups beginning Sunday, July 14th!

And look for our next email update toward the end of July . . . 

Yours in Christ,
Rick Krueger

FROM PASTOR ERIC (FROM THE JULY NEWSLETTER):
God does not work in vain. Christ did not die and rise in vain. The Holy Spirit does not work faith in us in vain. The Father did not create us in vain. God does not love us in vain. He does not change, His will is done, His plan does not fail, His institution, the one, true, eternal church, the body of all believers, does not fail or crumble.

Every change we see and experience all leads in one direction, each day brings us closer to Christ’s return and a new heaven and a new earth, and eternity with God and all our brothers and sisters in the faith. That kingdom, that place, that people, are all built upon our rock, Christ. So yes, we live in uncertain times, but like a book that has already been written, we know how this story ends. All ends with the end of uncertainty, the end of vanity, the end of sin and death, and in the place of all that, we receive life everlasting with our Rock, our Redeemer, our Savior, amen.

Your brother in Christ,        
Pastor Eric

MaryAnn Snell, 1946-2024

Dear brothers and sisters at Messiah,

Our sister in Christ MaryAnn Snell was called home to be with our Lord on Sunday, June 30th, 2024, at the age of 78. MaryAnn became a member of Messiah in 1976; she served as Messiah's choir accompanist for many years, and was faithful in worship until she was no longer able to attend regularly, due to illness.

We mourn MaryAnn's passing with her sister Marlene Anderson, her daughters Sonya Roach & Karla Finn, and all of her family and friends.  But we also rejoice that MaryAnn is free from her earthly sufferings, and is now in the presence of her Savior Jesus Christ, awaiting the resurrection of the body on the last day.

The funeral service for MaryAnn will be held at Messiah on Saturday, July 13th at 11:00 am, with visitation beforehand beginning at 9:30 am.  A luncheon will be held in Messiah’s fellowship hall immediately after the service, followed by the committal at Fairplains Cemetery in Grand Rapids.  MaryAnn's complete obituary will be available at Reyers North Valley Chapel's website soon.

Please keep all those who knew and loved MaryAnn in your prayers in the coming days; feel free to use the prayer below as a model.

Lord God, maker of heaven and earth and giver of life, we thank You for all the mercies You granted to our sister MaryAnn during her earthly life, especially for calling her to faith in Jesus Christ. Comfort Marlene, Sonya, Karla and all the survivors who mourn MaryAnn's death with the hope of the glorious resurrection and a joyful reunion in heaven. Keep us mindful that we are mortal so that we will ever be prepared to die in the faith and finally receive the glory promised to all who trust in Your beloved Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord.  Amen.

Yours in Him,

Pastor Eric Black & Rick Krueger
Messiah Lutheran Church

Jack Keller, 1952-2024

Dear brothers and sisters at Messiah,

Our brother in Christ Jack Keller was called home to be with our Lord on Thursday, June 26th, 2024, at the age of 72. Jack was confirmed and became a member of Messiah in 1985, joining along with his fiancée Sheryl Forwood.  Jack & Sheryl were married at Messiah later that year and have been faithful and active in worship and service ever since.

We grieve over Jack's passing with Sheryl, their children Brent and Brittany, and all of his family and friends.  But we are also grateful that Jack is free from his earthly sufferings, and is now in the presence of his Savior Jesus Christ, awaiting the resurrection of the body on the last day.

Jack's memorial service will be held at Messiah on Monday, July 8th at 11:00 am; for those unable to attend, it will be livestreamed on YouTube and Facebook. The family will greet members and guests beginning at 10:00 am; a dessert reception will follow the service in Messiah’s fellowship hall. Visitation will also be held on Sunday, July 7th, from 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm & 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm at Reyers North Valley Chapel, 2815 Fuller Road NE in Grand Rapids.   Click here to view Jack's complete obituary online.

Please keep all those who knew and loved Jack in your prayers in the coming days; feel free to use the prayer below as a model.

Lord God, maker of heaven and earth and giver of life, we thank You for all the mercies You granted to our brother Jack during his earthly life, especially for calling him to faith in Jesus Christ. Comfort Sheryl, Brent, Brittany and all the survivors who mourn Jack's death with the hope of the glorious resurrection and a joyful reunion in heaven. Keep us mindful that we are mortal so that we will ever be prepared to die in the faith and finally receive the glory promised to all who trust in Your beloved Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord.  Amen.

Yours in Him,

Pastor Eric Black & Rick Krueger
Messiah Lutheran Church

May 30th Update

Dear Brothers and Sisters at Messiah,

With the Easter season, Ascension, Pentecost Sunday and the feast of the Holy Trinity past, we now move into The Time of The Church (also known as the Sundays after Pentecost).  In the weeks between now and the end of the Church Year in November, our Divine Services will focus on the saving words and works of Jesus, as unfolded in the gospels of Mark and John.  In June, readings from various Old Testament books and Paul's 2nd epistle to the Corinthians (also currently being studied in Bible Class) will complement our ongoing journey through our Savior's earthly life!

Even as summer begins and many of us enjoy travel and vacation, we hope that these reminders of upcoming opportunities for worship, education, fellowship and service at Messiah will be helpful for you! 

 

WEEKLY WORSHIP AND CLASS SCHEDULE

  • From now through August, we'll continue with one Divine Service held at 10:00 am on Sundays.  Bible Class is held beforehand at 9:00 am.  Sunday Services are scheduled to be livestreamed at

  • We will also hold Divine Service on Monday nights at 7:00 pm from June 3rd through August 26th.



JUNE NEWSLETTER - PLUS WHAT'S NEW & NEXT
Our June newsletter is now online! Click here to preview or download it in its entirety. Paper copies of the newsletter are available for members and guests at the Welcome Center.  We also post the newsletter (including monthly calendars) online at www.messiahgr.org/news; calendars are also online separately at www.messiahgr.org/calendar

Check the newsletter and our weekly announcements for details on these and other events:

  • Urdu Worship Service Saturday, June 15th at 5:00 pm.  Led by Pastor Afzal Masih, this service will be held in the fellowship hall, with a Pakistani meal following.  Urdu services are held on the third Saturday of each month; Messiah members and friends are welcome to attend!

  • High School Graduate Recognition Sunday, June 23rd at the end of the Divine Service.

  • Vacation Bible School Monday - Friday, June 24th - 28th from 9:00 to 11:45 am.  This year's theme is Celebrate the Savior: Jesus Gives Us Joy!  Registration and volunteer sign-ups are under way; contact VBS coordinator Steve Ledbetter for details.  Click here to register children.

  • Community Picnic Sunday, August 25th following the Divine Service, sponsored by the Board of Outreach.  Watch for more details and volunteer sign-ups in July!



FROM PASTOR ERIC (FROM THE JUNE NEWSLETTER):
As we see Sunday after Sunday of green, remember that the most ordinary time of the church year is still extraordinary for us mere mortals, because every Sunday is a celebration of the resurrection, and that our mortality will put on immortality. Hear the Word of God, receive the body and blood of Christ, worship your Savior alongside your brothers and sisters of Christ, none of which can adequately be described as ordinary. So, as we head into June, God watch over all those who travel, give thanks for all of His countless blessings, and never tire of receiving the gifts of God as part of His people, the church.  Amen.


Pastor Eric

April 26th Update

Dear Brothers and Sisters at Messiah,

Alleluia!  Christ is risen!  He is risen indeed!  Alleluia!

As the Easter season continues, we get closer by the day to celebrating the Ascension of Our Lord and The Day of Pentecost; these festivals wrap up the Church Year's remembrance of Jesus' earthly life and saving work.  We hope that these reminders of upcoming opportunities for worship, education, fellowship and service will be helpful for you! 

WEEKLY WORSHIP AND CLASS SCHEDULE

  • Throughout May, we continue with one Divine Service held at 10:00 am on Sundays.  Bible Class is held beforehand at 9:00 am, as Pastor Eric leads us through Paul's letters to the Corinthians.  Services are scheduled to be livestreamed at

  • www.youtube.com/messiahgr

  • Our Facebook page. www.facebook.com/messiahgr

  • The most recent service is viewable on our website's front page, www.messiahgr.org

In addition to Sunday Bible Class, Dan Bohlinger and Pastor Hoese will continue leading a LifeLightstudy ofJames and Jude on Wednesdays at 6:00 pm throughout May.  Click here to learn more about this class.

On Thursday, May 9th, our brothers and sisters in Christ from St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Rockford will join us here at Messiah to celebrateThe Ascension of Our Lord! A ham dinner will be served in the fellowship hall at 6:00 pm, followed by the service at 7:00 pm.  Pastor Eric will preside, and Pastor Jason Peterson will preach; a joint choir led by St. Peter's retiring music director Julie Busen will provide anthems and musical leadership. The service will also be livestreamed as above.

At their April meeting, the Board of Elders set Messiah’s summer worship schedule. From Sunday, May 26th (Memorial Day weekend) through Sunday, September 1st (Labor Day weekend), we'll continue with the Sunday schedule as above. Monday night services will also be held from Monday, June 3rd through Monday, August 26th at 7:00 pm.



MAY NEWSLETTER - PLUS WHAT'S NEW & NEXT
Our May newsletter is now online! Click here to preview or download it in its entirety. Paper copies of the newsletter are available for members and guests at the Welcome Center.  We also post the newsletter (including monthly calendars) online at www.messiahgr.org/news; calendars are also online separately at www.messiahgr.org/calendar

Check the newsletter and our weekly announcements for details on these and other events:

  • Family Game Night Saturday, May 4th from 5:00 to 7:00 pm, sponsored by Lutherans in Fellowship Together.  Contact Dave or Tammy Ahrens for details.  

  • The Mother's Day Flower Basket Sale, sponsored by the Board of Outreach and Messiah's Life Team, is now complete!   Thanks to all who placed orders; they will be available to pick up at church on Sunday, May 5th.  Contact Arlene Mansfield for details. Proceeds will benefit the Pregnancy Resource Center of Grand Rapids.

  • Urdu Worship Service Saturday, May 19th at 5:00 pm.  Led by Pastor Afzal Masih, this service will be held in the fellowship hall, with a Pakistani meal following.  Urdu services are held on the third Saturday of each month; Messiah members and friends are welcome to attend!

  • Vacation Bible School Monday - Friday, June 24th - 28th from 9:00 to 11:45 am.  This year's theme is Celebrate the Savior: Jesus Gives Us Joy!  Registration and volunteer sign-ups will begin in May; contact VBS coordinator Steve Ledbetter for details.  Click here to register children beginning on May 1st.


Rick Krueger


FROM PASTOR ERIC (FROM THE MAY NEWSLETTER):
We know Christ is the good Shepherd of course, but many times He also refers to His work in terms of gardening, pruning, harvesting and so on.  In the beginning that is what creation was, a garden, a paradise, empty of weeds, full of work that was never toilsome, everything grew, everything was full of life, and it will be again.  In this hope we get to live, and this hope is what we get to share.

So, although May is a busy month, full of changes, graduations, transition to summer and so forth, including in the church itself, remember in all things Christ is ever leading us closer to Him.  And as we listen, as we read His Word, worship together and receive His gifts, pray without ceasing, remember many do not have what we have been given.  Who will tell them, “Alleluia!  Christ is risen!” if not the church?  It’s not that we have to, but we get to, sharing the same faith, hope, and love, that will see us into eternity through our risen Savior Jesus Christ. Amen.


Pastor Eric

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