A Message from Messiah's President

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

I write to remind you that Jesus Christ is Lord of all!  And that “we know that for those who love God all things work together for good” (Romans 8:28 ESV).

We at Messiah love Pastor Twietmeyer and his family, and are saddened to see him go. We will not only miss his wonderful sermons, his teaching, counsel, and care for our congregation, but his friendship as well.  Questioning why this has happened and feelings of loss and sorrow are normal at a time like this.  But it's also true that, from our limited point of view, we are not able to fully understand why our shepherd has been called away.  Now the Lord is calling us to trust that He will provide for us as a church family.

Just as in other challenging times in Messiah's past, we need to be there for one another and value each other as gifts from God.  We will be tempted with fears about Messiah's future. While these feelings are expected in a grieving process, they are at the same time not helpful moving forward.  As sinful human beings we want to make sense of things in a way that is not always possible on this side of heaven.  In these times we must collectively hold fast to God's promises in the Gospel.  These things we know for certain: that no matter what we are more than conquerors through Christ our Savior (Romans 8:37-39), and that His perfect love casts out our fallen fear and distrust (1 John 4:18).   We must move forward together.  I urge you, brothers and sisters in Christ, to be sensitive to each other’s feelings without giving way to negativity and anger.

The leadership at Messiah will take the necessary steps to ensure that Word and Sacrament ministry will continue at our Church, and that spiritual care will be provided for the hurting and grieving among us.  The Lord will provide!  I love you all. Let us hold to our God-given fellowship and love for one another in these uncertain times for our congregation. Please feel free to reach out to me if you have concerns or needs. 

Going forward, we will do our best to communicate further details as they take shape.  In the meantime, please pray for one another and for our church.  The Word of the Lord endures forever (Isaiah 40:8) and assures us that our prayers will be answered according to His will and timing. God bless you all.
 
In Jesus’ name,
 


Dave Ahrens
President, Messiah Lutheran Church

P.S.  Our dear brother in Christ, Dale Robart, has provided some scriptural references that are especially helpful at this time.  I encourage you to read them, meditate on them and pray on them:

  • Ephesians 4:11-16 (God gives His people shepherds)

  • 2 Corinthians 4:7-18 (Our troubles in the light of God's glory)

  • Acts 20:17-28 (Paul's farewell to the elders at Ephesus)

  • Hebrews 13:5-8 (The Lord will never leave or forsake us)

  • Romans 8:28-39 (Nothing can separate us from the love of God in Christ)

Special Update

Dear Friends in Christ,
 
After four weeks of deliberation and prayer, I have decided to accept the call to serve as Associate Pastor at St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Hillsdale, Michigan. The hope and joy that I have in the opportunity to preach the Gospel in Hillsdale are certainly attended by a deep sadness that I feel in leaving you, the saints who gather to receive the gifts of God at Messiah in Grand Rapids. 
 
At this time, the only thing I wish to express is gratitude. Thank you so much for the love, care, and appreciation that you have shown my family and me in the last two years. Although we part ways now, it is our great confidence that we will be reunited when Christ returns on the last day. Even now, we will always remain united in the bold confession of Christ Jesus, a confession of faith that transcends time and space itself. God bless and keep you in this faith until life everlasting. 
 
It has been my great joy to be your pastor over the last two years. I will very much miss being with you in worship, hearing you sing, and hearing the scriptures with you, but most of all, I will miss seeing you at the altar and giving you the body and blood of our Lord Jesus for the forgiveness of our sins.
 
Your brother in Christ,


Pastor Twietmeyer


May 30 Update

Dear Brothers and Sisters at Messiah,

May gives way to June this week, and the season of Easter gives way to The Time of the Church beginning this coming Sunday!  We hope that the following information will will be helpful as you look ahead. 

WORSHIP AND CLASS SCHEDULE:

From now through Sunday, September 3rd (Labor Day weekend), there will be one Divine Service held at 10:00 am on Sundays, with Bible Class beforehand at 9:00 am; Sunday School is in recess. Monday night Divine Services will also be held from June 5th through August 28th at 7:00 pm (with the exception of Monday, July 3rd). The Sunday service is scheduled to be livestreamed at


WHAT'S NEWS & WHAT'S NEW:
(Details in our weekly announcements and our June newsletter)

  • NEW! Once again, congratulations to our 2023 graduates:

    • Eli Kaminski and Aiden Mannor (high school)

    • Noelle Kaminski, Taylor Trotter and Cooper Tyson (college)

  • NEW! Summer Golf begins on Sunday, June 4th at 3:00 pm at Scott Lake Golf Course. We will play the Par 3 Short Course of 6 holes. Cost is $17 with a golf cart or $11 to walk. Please sign up at the welcome center. (Please be at the course by 2:45 pm). See Mark Altemann or Dwight Anderson for more information.

  • “Not Choir”  begins next week.  Join Rick Krueger on Wednesdays at 7:00 pm beginning June 7th for conversation, singing tips, skill building and previews of the music for the following weekend. Like singing hymns but wish you could do it better?  Wish you could like it?  Love it so much you wish could do it more? Whatever your starting point, “Not Choir” is for you!

  • On Monday-Friday, June 19th - 23rd from 9:00 to 11:45 am, Messiah holds our annual Vacation Bible School. This year’s theme is God’s Living Water: Covered in Jesus’ Grace!  Kids age 4 as of August 1st through grade 6 are invited to join us for lessons, music, crafts, snacks, activities and more!   Can you help with VBS this year? Sign up at the Welcome Center, contact Steve Ledbetter (our VBS Director) or go online to volunteer at vbsmate.com/messiahgr2023 (click on the blue “Become a volunteer” button).  You can also register children or grandchildren online by clicking on the blue “Register your child” button.  

  • NEW!  Our annual Community Picnic sponsored by the Board of Outreach will be held on Sunday, August 27th after the Divine Service.

  • NEW!  Pastor Steven Mahlburg, Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod missionary, and his family will visit Messiah for a Mission Festival on Sunday, September 17th. 


JUNE NEWSLETTER
Our June 2023 newsletter is now available online, with more on the above items and much more!  Click here to preview or download it in its entirety. A reminder that: 

  • Paper copies of the newsletter are available for members and guests at the Welcome Center.  We also continue to mail the newsletter to homebound members.  If you want to continue receiving the newsletter, please contact the church office to make arrangements.

  • We also post the newsletter (including monthly calendars) online at www.messiahgr.org/news; calendars are also online separately at www.messiahgr.org/calendar.


LOOKING AHEAD (from Pastor Twietmeyer's newsletter message):
"We are tempted to think that we are missing out on something. The world seems to be having a lot more fun than we are. They have more money, more romance, more things, more fame, more fortune. They have the meat pots and all we seemingly have is this worthless bread. But don’t let the world fool you! You are the rich one! You are the laborer who will be paid the wages of faith. You are the righteous one who will be delivered from Sodom. You are the child of God who has been saved through the Red Sea Waters of your baptism. You are not missing out on anything."

"Repent of your love for the world and replace it with your love for Christ. For Jesus Christ is the only one who truly missed out on something. He was the only one who can truly say that He was slighted. Although He was righteous and knew no sin, He became sin for us. He forsook all that He had and was forsaken on the cross by the Father. If we have the love of Christ in our hearts, then we are truly missing out on nothing. God be praised."
 
Yours in Him,


Rick Krueger, Parish Assistant

Special Update

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Earlier this week I was informed that I have received a divine call to preach, teach, and administer the sacraments at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Hillsdale Michigan. I want to assure you from the start that I did not seek out this call. I and my family are happy here in Grand Rapids. I must, however, devote myself over the next few weeks to prayer and reflection to in order to discern what to do. I will announce my decision at Messiah on Sunday, June 4th.

In the meantime, I ask you, dear friends, to share your thoughts with me as to what you think would be best, whether that be for me to stay, or for me to go. Your honest thoughts are welcome and will aid me in my decision making. As always, I would be glad to sit down with you, spend some time with you, and hear your thoughts.  Thanks to those of you who attended yesterday's Adult Bible Class; we spent time there talking about the call process and answering frequently asked questions about it.  If you didn't attend, you can click here to view the class on our website for the rest of this week.

 Above all, pray to God almighty that He would raise up Men of God to preach the Word in season and out of season, here and in every place. Pray that there would never be a shortage of the prophetic word of God in our midst. Pray that God would bless our congregations with fidelity to the Truth. 

Given this news, I’ve decided to forgo my vacation plans that are in the bulletin so that I can have the extra time to meet with anyone who wishes to share their thoughts. Please pray for me, pray for our congregation, but also pray for the saints at St. Paul’s in Hillsdale.  Let us all commend ourselves to God our Lord in this, and every matter.
 
The Lord be with you. 
 


Pastor Andrew Twietmeyer

May 11 Update

Dear Brothers and Sisters at Messiah,

We hope that these reminders of upcoming opportunities for worship, education, fellowship and service will be helpful as we head for the halfway point of May. 


WORSHIP AND CLASS SCHEDULE:

On Sunday, May 14th & 21st, we'll have Divine Service at 8:30 and 11:00 am, and Sunday School and Bible Class at 9:45 am.  The 11:00 am service is scheduled to be livestreamed at

From Sunday, May 28th(Memorial Day weekend – also the day of Pentecost) through Sunday,September 3rd (Labor Day weekend), there will be oneDivine Service held at10:00 am, withBible Class beforehand at 9:00 am. The Sunday morning service will be livestreamed as usual; Sunday School will be in recess for the summer beginning on May 28th. Monday night Divine Serviceswill also be held from June 5th through August 28th at 7:00 pm (with the exception of Monday, July 3rd). 

WHAT'S UP, WHAT'S COMING:
(Details in our weekly announcements and our May newsletter)

  • Next Thursday, May 18th, we gather with our brothers and sisters in Christ at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Rockford (310 E Division St NE) to celebrate The Ascension of Our Lord. A meat loaf supper (all food provided) will be served at 6:00 pm, followed by the Divine Service at 7:00 pm; Pastor Jason Peterson will preside over the service, and Pastor Twietmeyer will preach the sermon. Rejoice in the proclamation of God’s Word, in the music of our combined choirs and in the gift of Christ's body and blood as we worship Him together!

  • “NOT CHOIR” is coming this summer!  Join Rick Krueger weekly on Wednesdays at 7:00 pm beginning June 7th for conversation, singing tips, skill building and previews of the music for the following weekend. Like singing hymns but wish you could do it better?  Wish you could like it?  Love it so much you wish could do it more? Whatever your starting point, “Not Choir” is for you!

  • On Monday-Friday, June 19th - 23rd from 9:00 to 11:45 am, Messiah will hold our annual Vacation Bible School. This year’s theme is God’s Living Water: Covered in Jesus’ Grace!  Kids age 4 as of August 1st through grade 6 are invited to join us for lessons, music, crafts, snacks, activities and more!   Can you help with VBS this year? Sign up at the Welcome Center, contact Steve Ledbetter (our 2023 VBS Director) or go online to volunteer at vbsmate.com/messiahgr2023 (click on the blue “Become a volunteer” button). Our VBS Volunteer Orientation is this Saturday, May 13th, starting at 9:00 am!  You can also register children or grandchildren online by clicking on the blue “Register your child” button.  


WHO IS MY ELDER?
"The Board of Elders, for some time now, has had the policy of dividing up the families of Messiah and assigning them to an elder. However, as various elders join or leave the board,  we have had the annual task of reassigning families to another elder. Also, the number of elders available changes from year to year requiring us to reassign families to different elders. 

All of this causes people to ask who is my elder. We want to make this question as easy to answer as possible, so instead of assigning you to a certain elder, we will not assign specific families to a specific elder. Rather, we will publish the names and phone numbers of all the elders [in the upcoming new phone directory and elsewhere]. Please feel free to contact any of us about any concerns, questions, or prayer requests. We will share the spiritual care of the congregation among all members of the board by coordinating our efforts to serve the congregation.

So, in conclusion, who is my elder? We all are. Contact any of us."

Kevin Mueller
Vice Chair, Board of Elders

LOOKING AHEAD:
What does Jesus' ascension mean for us?

On Christ’s ascension I now build
    The hope of my ascension;
This hope alone has always stilled
    All doubt and apprehension;
For where the Head is, there as well
I know His members are to dwell
    When Christ will come and call them.

Since Christ returned to claim His throne,
    Great gifts for me obtaining,
My heart will rest in Him alone,
    No other rest remaining;
For where my treasure went before,
There all my thoughts will ever soar
    To still their deepest yearning.

O grant, dear Lord, this grace to me,
    Recalling Your ascension,
That I may serve You faithfully
    In thanks for my redemption;
And then, when all my days will cease,
Let me depart in joy and peace
    In answer to my pleading.

-- "On Christ's Ascension I Now Build," Lutheran Service Book 492

Yours in Him,


Rick Krueger, Parish Assistant

May 1 Update

Dear Brothers and Sisters at Messiah,

April was a fast moving, busy month!  We hope that these reminders of upcoming opportunities for worship, education, fellowship and service will be helpful as we begin the month of May and continue the season of Easter. 


WORSHIP AND CLASS SCHEDULE:

Our Sunday schedule of worship and classes continues on May 7, 14 & 21, with the Divine Service at 8:30 and 11:00 am, and Sunday School and Bible Class at 9:45 am.  11:00 am services are scheduled to be livestreamed at

From Sunday, May 28th (Memorial Day weekend – also the day of Pentecost) through Sunday, September 3rd (Labor Day weekend), there will be one worship service held at 10:00 am, with Bible Class beforehand at9:00 am. The Sunday morning service will be livestreamed as usual; Sunday School will be in recess for the summer beginning on May 28th. Monday night services will also be held from Monday, June 5th through Monday, August 28th at 7:00 pm. 

During the week:

  • CARES (Caring, Active, Reaching, Encouraging Sisters in Christ) continues on Wednesday mornings, led by Pastor Twietmeyer.  CARES begins at 9:30 am.


WHAT'S UP, WHAT'S COMING:
(Details in our weekly announcements)

  • Congratulations to our young people who have successfully completed First Communion and Catechism classes! We look forward to welcoming our children to the Lord’s altar and our youth into confirmed membership as part of the Divine Services next Sunday, May 7th at 8:30 am (First Communion) and 11:00 am (Confirmation). A reception sponsored by our Parish Services Guild will take place after the 11:00 am service in the fellowship hall.  (Click here to find out more about the rites of First Communion & Confirmation.)

  • The deadline for updating information for our new phone directory is Monday, May 8th; if you have not received update forms in your church mailbox, please contact the office.

  • Parish Service Guild meeting and Spring Potluck Thursday, May 11th at 12 noon.

  • On Thursday, May 18th, we will gather with our brothers and sisters in Christ at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Rockford (310 E Division St NE) to celebrate The Ascension of Our Lord. A meal will be served at 6:00 pm, followed by the Divine Service at 7:00 pm; Pastor Jason Peterson will preside over the service, and Pastor Twietmeyer will preach the sermon. We invite you to rejoice in the proclamation of God’s Word, in the sound of our combined choirs and in the gift of our Lord’s body and blood as we worship Him together!

  • On Monday-Friday, June 19th - 23rd from 9:00 to 11:45 am, Messiah will hold our annual Vacation Bible School. This year’s theme is God’s Living Water: Covered in Jesus’ Grace!  Kids age 4 as of August 1st through grade 6 are invited to join us for lessons, music, crafts, snacks, activities and more!   Can you help with VBS this year? Sign up at the Welcome Center, contact Steve Ledbetter (our 2023 VBS Director) or go online to volunteer at vbsmate.com/messiahgr2023 (click on the blue “Become a volunteer” button). You can also register children or grandchildren online by clicking on the blue “Register your child” button.  A VBS Staff Training Day for all group and activity leaders and helpers is set for Saturday, May 13th, 9:00 am – 12:00 pm.



MAY NEWSLETTER
Our May 2023 newsletter is now available online, with more on the above items and much more!  Click here to preview or download it in its entirety. A reminder that: 

  • Paper copies of the newsletter are available for members and guests at the Welcome Center.  We also continue to mail the newsletter to homebound members.  If you want to continue receiving the newsletter, please contact the church office to make arrangements.

  • We also post the newsletter (including monthly calendars) online at www.messiahgr.org/news; calendars are also online separately at www.messiahgr.org/calendar.


LOOKING AHEAD (from Pastor Twietmeyer's newsletter article):
"It is good to remember that we must distinguish between the Law of God and the Gospel of God, while at the same time we must not boil either of these words down into mere caricatures. When we learn the Law of God in its particulars, we are curbed from sin, led to repentance, and trained in Holy living. When we learn the Gospel of God in its particulars we see clear evidence of God’s work in our lives to bring us grace and mercy. In other words, God has so much more to say to you than 'you’re a sinner, but I love you anyway.' Thank God for this! There is a depth and complexity to the relationship between man and God. And so, we can rejoice that we will continue to grow in grace and truth for as many days as the Lord gives us."

Yours in Christ,


Rick Krueger, Parish Assistant

April 13th Update

Dear Brothers and Sisters at Messiah,

Christ is risen!  He is risen indeed!  Alleluia!

Isn't it great that Easter is a season of the church year, not just a Sunday?  We continue to celebrate God's astonishing gifts given us through Jesus' suffering, death and resurrection for the next six weeks!  We hope that these reminders of upcoming opportunities for worship, education, fellowship and service will be helpful as you do so.  


WORSHIP AND CLASS SCHEDULE:

Our regular Sunday schedule of worship and classes continues with the Divine Service at 8:30 and 11:00 am, and Sunday School and Bible Class at 9:45 am.  11:00 am services are scheduled to be livestreamed at


WHAT'S UP, WHAT'S COMING:
(Details in our weekly announcements and in the April newsletter)

  • Spring Clean-Up sponsored by the Board of Trustees on Saturday, April 22nd from 8:00 am to 12:00 noon.  Contact Carol Mushong to volunteer.

  • Lutheran Women's Missionary League Spring Rally on Saturday, April 29th from 9:30 am to 1:30 pm at St. Peter's Lutheran Church in Big Rapids.  Sign up at the Welcome Center by Friday, April 21st.

  • Secret Prayer Pals Spring Gathering on Sunday, April 30th at 6:00 pm.  Contact Deb Krueger with any questions!

  • NEW!  Ascension Day Service Thursday, May 18th at 7:00 pm.  This annual joint service with our sister congregation, Saint Peter's Lutheran Church of Rockford, will be held at Saint Peter's (310 E Division St NE in Rockford).  More details coming!


LOOKING AHEAD 
So what is the rest of this Easter season all about?  The Gospels appointed for the next six Sundays tell the tale:

  • Jesus appears to the disciples and Thomas (John 20:19-31, April 16th)

  • Jesus appears to His disciples on the road to Emmaus (Luke 24:13-35, April 23rd)

  • Jesus is our Good Shepherd (John 10:1-10, April 30th)

  • Jesus is the Way, the Truth and the Life (John 14:1-14, May 7th)

  • "If you love Me, you will keep my commandments." (John 14:15-21, May 14th)

  • Jesus prays for His disciples (John 17:1-11, May 21st)

All this and more awaits us in the coming weeks of worship.  Thanks be to our heavenly Father that, in the risen Christ, God is for us!  Empowered by the Holy Spirit, may we live in Christ's peace and joy, doing His will and serving our neighbors in His love. 


Rick Krueger, Parish Assistant

March 28 Update

The great and holy week of our Lord Jesus Christ is almost here!  We hope that these reminders of upcoming opportunities for worship, education, fellowship and service will be helpful as we move from March to April. 


WORSHIP AND CLASS SCHEDULE:

Our regular Sunday schedule of worship and classes continues on April 2, 16, 23 and 30, with the Divine Service at 8:30 and 11:00 am, and Sunday School and Bible Class at 9:45 am.  11:00 am services are scheduled to be livestreamed at

Special Holy Week services will be held as follows:

  • Maundy Thursday, April 6th at 7:00 pm.  This service will be livestreamed.

  • Good Friday, April 7th at 11:00 am & 7:00 pm.  The 7:00 pm service will be livestreamed.

  • Services on Easter Sunday, April 9th will be held at 7:30 & 10:30 am; the 10:30 am service will be livestreamed.  The annual Easter Breakfast will be held between services, with proceeds going to Messiah's Food Pantry.  There will be no Sunday School or Bible Class on Easter Sunday.

During the week:

  • CARES (Caring, Active, Reaching, Encouraging Sisters in Christ) continues on Wednesday mornings, led by Pastor Twietmeyer.  CARES will begin at 9:30 am on April 5th, returning to the start time of 9:45 am on April 12th, 19th and 26th.


WHAT'S UP, WHAT'S COMING:
(Details in our weekly announcements andin the April newsletter)

  • NEW!  Making Palm Crosses this Saturday, April 1st at 9:30 am, sponsored by the Altar Guild. Sign up at the Welcome Center.

  • NEW!  Lutherans in Fellowship Together meeting this coming Sunday, April 2nd after the 11 am service.  The group will plan upcoming events and prepare goodie bags for our Easter Egg Hunt.

  • NEW!  Stripping of the Altar Maundy Thursday, April 6th, sponsored by the Altar Guild.  Sign up to help with the closing ceremony of this worship service at the Welcome Center.

  • Messiah's annual Easter Egg Hunt, sponsored by the Board of Outreach, is set for Saturday, April 8th at 10 am.  Families attending are strongly encouraged to RSVP online by Friday, April 7th at www.messiahgr.org/events/2023-easter-eggs.  We need plenty of volunteers (sign up at the Welcome Center or in Bible Class) to help with:

    • Set-up

    • Registration

    • Greeting and guiding families

    • Scattering eggs

    • Monitoring the egg hunt

    • Distributing goodie bags

    • Clean-up

  • NEW!  Spring Clean-Up sponsored by the Board of Trustees on Saturday, April 22nd from 8:00 am to 12:00 noon.  Watch for more details!

  • NEW!  Lutheran Women's Missionary League Spring Rally on Saturday, April 29th from 9:30 am to 1:30 pm at St. Peter's Lutheran Church in Big Rapids.  Sign up at the Welcome Center by Friday, April 21st.

  • NEW!  Secret Prayer Pals Spring Gathering on the evening of Sunday, April 30th.  Watch for more details!


APRIL NEWSLETTER
Our April 2023 newsletter is now available online!  Click here to preview or download it in its entirety.  A reminder that: 

  • Paper copies of the newsletter are available for members and guests at the Welcome Center.  We also continue to mail the newsletter to homebound members.  If you want to continue receiving the newsletter, please contact the church office to make arrangements.

  • We also post the newsletter (including monthly calendars) online at www.messiahgr.org/news; calendars are also online separately at www.messiahgr.org/calendar.


LOOKING AHEAD (from Pastor Twietmeyer's newsletter article on spiritual warfare):
"In the Bible, the fools are those separated from the Wisdom of God – those who cannot see the truth, those who are blind. Jesus uses this word, in the Gospel of Luke, to describe the two disciples on the road to Emmaus who are unable to recognize their risen savior. And in this, the master strategy of the Devil unfolds. His goal is to cloud your vision of the risen Christ – to make you blind, deaf, and dumb to the salvation won for you on the Cross."

"But God will have none of this. Refusing to sit idly by, His Holy One, His champion, has already fought the one battle that counted. In the fullness of time, God sent not just a prophet or a messenger, but his own Son into the race of men to redeem them. The combat was fierce, and at first there appeared to be only one casualty: Jesus. But the Devil celebrated too early and did not anticipate the pit trap that he had just fallen into. For Jesus was born under the law, and so, his perfect death now accomplished victory and redeemed mankind, those under the law ..."

"The only words in the air at the altar of God are the triumph songs of the new Jerusalem, the faithful baptized, the children of God:Speak tenderly to Jerusalem, and cry to her that her warfare is ended, that her iniquity is pardoned, that she has received from the Lord's hand double for all her sins." 

Yours in Christ,


Rick Krueger, Parish Assistant

March 14 Update

Dear Brothers and Sisters at Messiah,

This Thursday marks the halfway point of the Lenten season;  we hope that these reminders of upcoming opportunities for worship, education, fellowship and service will be helpful for you. 


WORSHIP AND CLASS SCHEDULE:

Our Sunday schedule of worship and classes continues, with the Divine Service at 8:30 and 11:00 am, and Sunday School and Bible Class at 9:45 am.  11:00 am services are scheduled to be livestreamed at

During the week:

  • CARES (Caring, Active, Reaching, Encouraging Sisters in Christ) continues, led by Pastor Twietmeyer.  During Lent (see below), the Wednesday morning study begins promptly at 9:30 am.

  • Lenten Midweek services continue on Wednesdays at 11:00 am (Matins) & 7:00 pm (Vespers) through March 29th.  The 7:00 pm service will be livestreamed as above.

  • Special Holy Week services will be held as follows:

    • Maundy Thursday, April 6th at 7:00 pm.  This service will be livestreamed.

    • Good Friday, April 7th at 11:00 am & 7:00 pm.  The 7:00 pm service will be livestreamed.

    • Services on Easter Sunday, April 9th will be held at 7:30 & 10:30 am; the 10:30 am service will be livestreamed.  The annual Easter Breakfast is scheduled for between services.



WHAT'S UP, WHAT'S COMING:
(Details in our weekly announcements and in the March newsletter)

  • Lenten Prayer Breakfast this Saturday, March 18th at 9:30 am.  Sign up at the Welcome Center or call the church office.

  • The Board of Elders will hold a Fish Fry on Wednesday, March 22nd at 6:00 pm in the Fellowship Hall, before the evening's Lenten service. 

  • Our annual Spiritual Growth Seminar Saturday, March 25th.  The Rev. Dr. Paul Grime, Dean of Spiritual Formation and the Chapel at Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne, Indiana will be our keynote speaker on the topic Praying with Boldness and Humility. Click here for complete information & an online RSVP form; you can also sign up at the Welcome Center or in Bible Class.  Please RSVP or sign up by Monday, March 20th!

  • Messiah's annual Easter Egg Hunt, sponsored by the Board of Outreach, is set for Saturday, April 8th at 10 am.  Sign-ups for volunteers and donation, along with publicity materials for you to share, are now available at the Welcome Center.  Advance RSVPs from families are strongly encouraged; families can click here to sign up by Friday, April 7th.



LOOKING AHEAD:
During the Sundays in Lent still to come, the Lord promises Isaiah that He will turn darkness into light and Jesus heals a man born blind; the Lord shows Ezekiel the valley of dry bones revived by His Word and Jesus raises Lazarus from the dead; and crowds follow the Son of God to see, hear, ridicule and finally crucify Him.  In all this Christ humbles Himself for our sake, becoming obedient to death, even death on a cross!

And there's more!  Our Wednesday services explore what all this means: while we were still sinners, Christ died for us (Romans 5:1-11); through His obedience, we are made righteous in His Father's sight (Romans 5:12-21) and His Holy Spirit sets us free from sin and death (Romans 8:1-17).  We pray that, awed by our Lord's amazing love, you'll join us to hear this Good News again, rejoicing in God's saving gifts and praising Him for His grace and mercy!

Yours in Christ,


Rick Krueger, Parish Assistant

Special Ash Wednesday Update

Dear Brothers and Sisters at Messiah,

Given the current weather forecast predicting a mixture of snow, sleet and ice, we have decided to hold one Ash Wednesday service tomorrow, February 22nd at 11:00 am.  The 7 pm service and the Senior Choir rehearsal scheduled for tomorrow evening have been cancelled.   Notice of this schedule change will also be posted on WOOD and WZZM tomorrow morning.

We are making this call and notifying you this far in advance to give as many of you as possible the chance to attend worship tomorrow.  We hope that, your schedule permitting, you will be able to join us at 11:00 am to begin this season of self-denial, humble repentance for our sin and special devotion to our Lord Jesus Christ.

We plan to resume our regular midweek Lenten service schedule at 11:00 am and 7:00 pm next Wednesday, March 1st.  Thanks for your patience and understanding.

 

Yours in Christ,


Pastor Andrew Twietmeyer
Rick Krueger, Parish Assistant

February 16th Update

Dear Brothers and Sisters at Messiah,

On the verge of Epiphany's end and Lent's beginning, we hope that these reminders of opportunities for worship, education, fellowship and service will be helpful. 


WORSHIP AND CLASS SCHEDULE:
Our Sunday schedule of worship and classes continues, with the Divine Service at 8:30 and 11:00 am, and Sunday School and Bible Class at 9:45 am.  11:00 am services are scheduled to be livestreamed at


During the week:

  • LifeLight: 1st & 2nd Peter continues on Tuesdays at 10:30 am.  Watch for an upcoming announcement regarding a spring LifeLight class (to be held on Wednesday nights after Easter).

  • CARES (Caring, Active, Reaching, Encouraging Sisters in Christ) continues, based on the book Chosen: A Study of Esther by Donna Snow and led by Pastor Twietmeyer.  During Lent (see below), the study will begin promptly at the new time of 9:30 am.

  • Lent begins with Ash Wednesday on February 22nd.  Lenten Midweek services (Divine Service on Ash Wednesday, Matins & Vespers thereafter), will be held Wednesdays at 11:00 am & 7:00 pm from February 22nd through March 29th.  The 7:00 pm service will be livestreamed as above.



WHAT'S UP, WHAT'S COMING:
(Details in our weekly announcements and in the February newsletter)

  • NEW!  Messiah's new Life Team will volunteer at the Pregnancy Resource Center of Grand Rapids on Friday, March 3rd from 10:00 am to 12 noon.  Sign up at the Welcome Center or contact Elizabeth Twietmeyer.

  • NEW!  Family Game Night sponsored by Lutherans in Fellowship Together on Saturday, March 11th from 5:00 - 7:30 pm. Join us here at church for fun and fellowship! Bring your favorite game and a snack to share. Invite a friend!

  • NEW!  Lenten Prayer Breakfast Saturday, March 18th at 9:30 am.  Sign up at the Welcome Center or in Bible Class.

  • The Board of Elders will hold a Fish Fry on Wednesday, March 22nd at 6:00 pm in the Fellowship Hall, before the evening's Lenten service. (Apologies for the mistaken date given in previous updates.)

  • Our annual Spiritual Growth Seminar, Saturday, March 25th.  The focus of this year's Seminar is Prayer. The Rev. Dr. Paul Grime, Dean of Spiritual Formation and the Chapel at Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne Indiana, will be our guest speaker.  His keynote sessions will focus on the theme, "Is God Listening?".  Registration information coming very soon.

  • NEW!  Messiah's annual Easter Egg Hunt, sponsored by the Board of Outreach, is set for Saturday, April 8th at 10 am.  Volunteer sign-ups and more information coming soon.


LOOKING AHEAD:
On the Feast of the Transfiguration of our Lord, God reveals His majesty to Moses in flame, shrouded in a mysterious cloud, ultimately preparing Moses to receive the Law of God.  Peter, James & John also bear witness to Jesus’ majesty on the Mount of Transfiguration.  But of paramount importance is not just the glorious appearance of Jesus but the revelation of something more sure — His prophetic Word.  This is the very Word that demands our listening, inspires our believing, & confirms our confessions. (Exodus 24:8-18; 2 Peter 1:16-21; Matthew 17:1-9) 

May our remembrance of our Baptism, our hearing of God's Word and our reception of our Lord's Body & Blood prepare us for the coming Lententide, so that in turn we may come to Easter with glad hearts and keep the feast of Jesus' resurrection in sincerity and truth!

Yours in Christ,


Rick Krueger, Parish Assistant

January 30 update

Dear Brothers and Sisters at Messiah,

The first month of 2023 has gone by quickly!  As we get ready for February, we hope that these reminders of opportunities for worship, education, fellowship and service will be helpful. 


SUNDAY WORSHIP AND CLASS SCHEDULE:
Our schedule of worship, Sunday School and Bible Class continues, with the Divine Service at 8:30 and 11:00 am, and Sunday School and Bible Class at 9:45 am.  11:00 am services are scheduled to be livestreamed at


WHAT'S UP, WHAT'S COMING:
(Details in our weekly announcements and in the February newsletter)

  • LifeLight: 1st & 2nd Peter continues on Tuesdays at 10:30 am.

  • CARES (Caring, Active, Reaching, Encouraging Sisters in Christ) continues on Wednesdays at 9:30 am, focusing on the book Chosen: A Study of Esther by Donna Snow.  

  • Our monthly Lutheran Confessions Study continues on Thursday, February 2nd.  On that 40th day after Christmas, we'll celebrate the festival of The Purification of Mary and the Presentation of Our Lord, with Divine Service at 10:00 am immediately followed by the study.

  • Our biweekly Bowling League continues on Sunday, February 5th and 19th at 3:00 pm at Northfield Lanes.  Contact Joanne Gillette for more details.

  • Our Parish Services Guild's next monthly meeting is set for Thursday, February 9th, starting with social time at 12:30 pm.

  • NEW!  Lutherans in Fellowship Together's next event is serving for families staying at Butterworth Hospital's Renucci Hospitality House on Friday, February 10th. Contact Dave and Tammy Ahrens for details.

  • NEW!  Lent begins with Ash Wednesday on February 22nd.

    • Lenten Midweek services (Divine Service on Ash Wednesday, Matins & Vespers thereafter), will be held Wednesdays at 11:00 am & 7 pm from February 22nd through March 29th.

    • The Board of Elders will hold a Fish Fry on Ash Wednesday, February 22nd at 6:00 pm in the Fellowship Hall.

  • NEW! Our annual Spiritual Growth Seminar is set for Saturday, March 25th.  The focus of this year's Seminar is Prayer. The Rev. Dr. Paul Grime, Dean of Spiritual Formation and the Chapel at Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne Indiana, will be our guest speaker.  His keynote sessions will focus on the theme, "Is God Listening?".  More information coming soon ...


FEBRUARY NEWSLETTER
Our February 2023 newsletter is now available online!  Click here to preview or download it in its entirety. A reminder that: 

  • Paper copies of the newsletter are available for members and guests at the Welcome Center.  We also continue to mail the newsletter to homebound members.  If you want to continue receiving the newsletter, please contact the church office to make arrangements.

  • We also post the newsletter (including monthly calendars) online at www.messiahgr.org/news; calendars are also online separately at www.messiahgr.org/calendar.


LOOKING AHEAD (from Pastor's February newsletter article):
"How much of what we say, do, think, and desire would change if the concept that we were purchased by God was central to our worldview? For Mary, the purification ritual that she went through was a reminder that God had purchased and won her from the devil by means of the blood that would be shed by her son. So it was for every descendent of Abraham living under the Levitical code."

"But we do not live under that code anymore. All those signs have been fulfilled in Christ. Instead, you have a different reminder, the reminder of the Holy Cross. This is why I encourage you to make the sign of the Holy Cross upon yourself every day, as a reminder that you have been purchased and won by God. For it was upon a wooden cross that God paid for your salvation. It was by the blood of God that you have been redeemed."

Yours in Christ,


Rick Krueger, Parish Assistant

January 12 Update

Dear Brothers and Sisters at Messiah,

Blessed New Year -- and a blessed season of Epiphany to all of you!  


SUNDAY WORSHIP AND CLASS SCHEDULE:
Our regular schedule of worship, Sunday School and Bible Class has resumed, with the Divine Service at 8:30 and 11:00 am, and Sunday School and Bible Class at 9:45 am.  11:00 am services are scheduled to be livestreamed at


WHAT'S UP, WHAT'S COMING
(Details in our weekly announcements and in the January newsletter)

  • The annual Parish Leadership Workshop is this Saturday, January 14th.  Continental Breakfast starts at 8:30 am, followed by the Workshop at 9:00 am.  All officers, members of boards, officers of auxiliaries and other congregational leaders are encouraged to attend.

  • NEW!  LIFT (Lutherans in Fellowship Together) meets to plan upcoming fellowship & service events this Sunday, January 15th after the 11:00 am service.

  • LifeLight: 1st & 2nd Peter begins Tuesday, January 17th at 10:30 am.

  • CARES (Caring, Active, Reaching, Encouraging Sisters in Christ) has resumed on Wednesdays at 9:30 am, continuing the book Chosen: A Study of Esther by Donna Snow.

  • National Lutheran Schools Week is January 22nd-28th; our preschool children will be our guest choir on Sunday, January 22nd at the 11:00 am service!

  • NEW!  Our Savior Lutheran Church presents a Life Sunday Soup and Salad Lunch on Sunday, January 22nd at 1:00 pm.  Vicki DeGrazier from the Pregnancy Resource Center of Grand Rapids will be the guest speaker. RSVP to carla32133@gmail.com or 586 383-5167.  

  • Our biweekly Bowling League continues on Sunday, January 22nd at 3:00 pm at Northfield Lanes.  Contact Joanne Gillette for more details.


LOOKING AHEAD 
In the season of Epiphany, beyond the coming of the wise men and His baptism in the Jordan River, the light of Jesus dispels darkness wherever His Gospel is preached in sincerity and truth.  His Word illuminates the power of the cross, uniting believers in the one Christian faith.  To follow another besides Jesus would be complete folly; His call to repentance and invitation to follow Him resulted in an immediate response from Simon Peter, Andrew, James and John -- and it still does so today!   When believers are in the company of Christ Jesus through Word and Sacrament, we see with the eyes of faith that through Him demons are defeated and diseases healed, for in Him the almighty power and limitless mercy of God is unconstrained.  May we all grow together in Him, living out the truth, openness, reconciliation and mercy He brings throughout the coming year!

Yours in Christ,


Rick Krueger, Parish Assistant

Ron Krueger, 1941-2023

Update: Ron's funeral will be held at Messiah this coming Tuesday, January 10th at 11 am, with visitation beginning at 10 am and a luncheon following the service.  Click for Ron’s online obituary. -- MLC

Dear brothers and sisters at Messiah,

Our brother in Christ Ron Krueger was called home to be with our Lord on January 3, 2023, at the age of 81.  Ron and his late wife JoAnne joined our fellowship in 1999.  After JoAnne's passing in 2009, Ron continued to attend worship regularly until illness prevented him from doing so.  Once homebound, he was grateful for faithful visits by his pastor and other members of Messiah (including a December 2022 visit from Christmas carolers).

We mourn with Ron's family and friends; but we also rejoice that Ron 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.

Ron's funeral arrangements are pending; we will update you and provide a link to his online obituary when we have full information.  

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

O God of grace and mercy, we give thanks for Your loving-kindness shown to Ron and to all Your servants who, having finished their course in faith, now rest from their labors.  Give to Ron's family and to all who mourn comfort in their grief and a sure confidence in Your loving care that, casting all their sorrow on You, they may know the consolation of Your love.  Receive our thanks for Ron and for all the blessings You bestowed on him in this earthly life. Bring us at last to our heavenly home that with him we may see You face to face in the joys of paradise; through Jesus Christ, Your Son, our Lord.  Amen.

Yours in Christ,

Rick Krueger
Messiah Lutheran Church

December 31 Update

Dear Brothers and Sisters at Messiah,

As the 12 days of Christmas continue and 2022 comes to a close, we hope that this update helps you look ahead to the new year!


CHRISTMAS SEASON SERVICES

  • Our remaining Christmas services are scheduled as follows:

    • New Year's Day Divine Service, Sunday, January 1st at 10:00 am.  There will be no Sunday School or Bible Class.

    • Our second annual joint Epiphany Divine Service at St. Peter Lutheran Church in Rockford, Friday, January 6th, 2023 at 7:00 pm.  Chili supper beforehand at 6:00 pm; bring a dish to pass!

Please note that the New Year's Day service is scheduled to be livestreamed at:


SUNDAY WORSHIP AND CLASS SCHEDULE:

  • Our regular schedule of worship, Sunday School and Bible Class will resume on Sunday, January 8th, with the Divine Service at 8:30 and 11:00 am, and Sunday School and Bible Class at 9:45 am.  11:00 am services are scheduled to be livestreamed as above.

  • Bible Class is also livestreamed at www.messiahgr.org/adult-bible-class.


WHAT'S UP, WHAT'S COMING
(Details in our weekly announcements and in the January newsletter)

  • The church office will be closed on Monday, January 2nd.

  • Senior Choir will resume rehearsals on Wednesday, January 4th at 7:00 pm.  That evening, we will meet at St. Peter's Lutheran Church in Rockford to practice our joint anthems for the Epiphany Divine Service!  Rehearsals at Messiah will start up again on Wednesday, January 11th at 7:00 pm.

  • New Member Welcome Sunday is January 8th!  New members who have joined since 2021 will be welcomed publicly in each service, with a Welcome Potluck in the Fellowship Hall following the 11:00 am service; please bring a dish to pass.

  • Our biweekly Bowling League resumes on Sunday, January 8th at 3:00 pm at Northfield Lanes.  Contact Joanne Gillette for more details.

  • LifeLight: 1st & 2nd Peter begins Tuesday, January 10th at 10:30 am.

  • CARES (Caring, Active, Reaching, Encouraging Sisters in Christ) will resume on Wednesday, January 11th at 9:30 am, continuing the book Chosen: A Study of Esther by Donna Snow.

  • The annual Parish Leadership Workshop is scheduled for Saturday, January 14th.  Continental Breakfast starts at 8:30 am, followed by the Workshop at 9:00 am.

  • National Lutheran Schools Week is January 22nd-28th; our preschool children will be our guest choir on Sunday, January 22nd at the 11:00 am service!

JANUARY NEWSLETTER
Our January 2023 newsletter is now available online!  Click here to preview or download it in its entirety. A reminder that: 

  • Paper copies of the newsletter are available for members and guests at the Welcome Center.  We also continue to mail the newsletter to homebound members.  If you want to continue receiving the newsletter, please contact the church office to make arrangements.

  • We also post the newsletter (including monthly calendars) online at www.messiahgr.org/news; calendars are also online separately at www.messiahgr.org/calendar.


LOOKING AHEAD (from Pastor's January newsletter article):
 St. Paul gives us great comfort: “To this end we always pray for you, that our God may make you worthy of his calling and may fulfill every resolve for good and every work of faith by his power, so that the name of our Lord Jesus may be glorified in you, and you in him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ.” This teaches us that when a Christian resolves to do good, the growth is given by God. In order to accomplish our resolves, we pray! We implore God almighty to carry out the good that we wish to do! Therefore, this new year, it behooves all Christians to pray fervently to God that he send to us a spirit of resolve. A blessed New Year to all of you!

Yours in Christ,


Rick Krueger, Parish Assistant

December 19 Update

Dear Brothers and Sisters at Messiah,

A (fairly) short, sweet update this time around; we hope that this list of opportunities for worship, devotion, fellowship and service will be helpful as we all prepare to celebrate the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ! 


ADVENT AND CHRISTMAS SERVICES

  • Our final Advent midweek services will be this Wednesday, December 21st at 11:00 am (Matins) and 7:00 pm (Evening Prayer).

  • Christmas services are scheduled as follows:

    • Christmas Eve Divine Service, this Saturday, December 24th at 3:00 pm.

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

    • Christmas Day Divine Service, Sunday, December 25th at 10:00 am.  There will be no Sunday School or Bible Class.

    • New Year's Day Divine Service, Sunday, January 1st at 10:00 am.  There will be no Sunday School or Bible Class.

    • Our second annual joint Epiphany Divine Service at St. Peter Lutheran Church in Rockford, Friday, January 6th, 2023 at 7:00 pm.  Supper beforehand at 6:00 pm!

Please note that the December 21st evening service, the 7:00 pm Christmas Eve service and the Christmas & New Year's Day services are scheduled to be livestreamed at:


SUNDAY WORSHIP AND CLASS SCHEDULE:

  • Our regular schedule of worship, Sunday School and Bible Class will resume on Sunday, January 8th, with the Divine Service at 8:30 and 11:00 am, and Sunday School and Bible Class at 9:45 am.  11:00 am services are scheduled to be livestreamed as above.

  • Bible Class is also livestreamed at www.messiahgr.org/adult-bible-class.


WHAT'S UP, WHAT'S COMING
(Details in our weekly announcements and in the upcoming January newsletter)

  • The church office will be closed on Monday, December 26th and Monday, January 2nd.

  • Senior Choir will resume rehearsals on Wednesday, January 4th at 7:00 pm.  We will meet at St. Peter's Lutheran Church in Rockford to practice our joint anthems for the Epiphany Divine Service!

  • New Member Welcome Sunday is January 8th!  New members since 2021 will be welcomed publicly in each service, with a Welcome Potluck in the Fellowship Hall following the 11:00 am service.

  • Our biweekly Bowling League resumes on Sunday, January 8th at 3:00 pm at Northfield Lanes.  Contact Joanne Gillette for more details.

  • LifeLight: 1st & 2nd Peter begins Tuesday, January 10th at 10:30 am.

  • CARES (Caring, Active, Reaching, Encouraging Sisters in Christ) will resume on Wednesday, January 11th at 9:30 am, continuing the book Chosen: A Study of Esther by Donna Snow.

  • The annual Parish Leadership Workshop is scheduled for Saturday, January 14th.  Continental Breakfast starts at 8:30 am, followed by the Workshop at 9:00 am.


LOOKING AHEAD
In the festive days to come, we pray that Almighty God, by whose providence our Savior came among us in great humility, may sanctify you with the light of His blessing and set you free from all sin.  We pray that Jesus Christ, whose second Coming in power and great glory we await, make you steadfast in faith, joyful in hope, and constant in love.  We pray that you, who rejoice in the first Advent of our Redeemer, at His second Advent may be rewarded with eternal life.  And we pray that the blessing of God Almighty, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, be upon you and remain with you this Christmas and forever.  Amen!

Yours in Christ,


Rick Krueger, Parish Assistant

Steve Kaminski, 1966-2022

Dear brothers and sisters at Messiah,

Our brother in Christ Steven Kaminski was called home to be with our Lord on December 12, 2022, at the age of 56.  Steve, his wife Kristen and their children Noelle and Eli became members of Messiah in 2019.  In addition to faithfully attending worship, Steve served on Messiah's Board of Education and Board of Elders.

We mourn with Steve's family (including his in-laws Larry & Marijo Pataniczek, who are also members of Messiah) and friends in the aftermath of his sudden and unexpected passing.  But we also rejoice that Steve 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.

Steve's funeral service will be held at Messiah this Friday, December 16th at 11 am, with visitation beforehand and a luncheon following.  Visitation will also be held this Thursday, December 15th, 2022 from 5 to 8 pm at the Heritage Life Story Funeral Home – Van Strien Creston Chapel (1833 Plainfield Ave. NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49505).  Click here to view Steve's obituary online.

Please keep Kristen, Noelle, Eli, Larry & Marijo and all those who knew and loved Steve in your prayers in the coming days; feel free to use the prayer below as a model.

O Lord God, by the sudden death of Steven, You have shown that Your thoughts are not our thoughts nor Your ways our ways. We thank You for the blessings of body and soul that You bestowed on our departed brother. Comfort the members of his family who mourn his death, and assist us ever to prepare for Your final summons when we will depart and be with Christ in blessedness and glory; through the same Jesus Christ, our Lord. 

Yours in Christ,

Rick Krueger
Messiah Lutheran Church

Ida Krampe, 1925-2022

Dear brothers and sisters at Messiah,

Our sister in Christ Ida Krampe was called home to be with our Lord on December 6, 2022, at the age of 97. Ida was a long-time member of Messiah; she and her late husband Ray joined our fellowship in 1966. After Ray's passing in 2006, Ida continued to attend worship regularly until illness and age prevented her from doing so. Once homebound, she was grateful for faithful visits by her pastor and by other members of Messiah (including annual visits from Christmas carolers)

We mourn with Ida's family and friends; but we also rejoice that Ida 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.

Ida's funeral service will be held at Messiah this coming Saturday, December 10th at 11 am; there will be visitation one hour before the service at 10 am, and a luncheon following. Ida's complete online obituary is now available at Reyers North Valley Chapel's website.

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

O God of grace and mercy, we give thanks for Your loving-kindness shown to Ida and to all Your servants who, having finished their course in faith, now rest from their labors. Give to Ida's family and to all who mourn comfort in their grief and a sure confidence in Your loving care that, casting all their sorrow on You, they may know the consolation of Your love. Receive our thanks for Ida and for all the blessings You bestowed on her in this earthly life. Bring us at last to our heavenly home that with her we may see You face to face in the joys of paradise; through Jesus Christ, Your Son, our Lord. Amen.

Yours in Christ,

Rick Krueger
Messiah Lutheran Church

November 29 Update

Dear Brothers and Sisters at Messiah,

Advent is here!  We hope that our list of opportunities for worship, devotion, fellowship and service will be helpful as all of us prepare to celebrate the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ.


SUNDAY WORSHIP AND CLASS SCHEDULE:


ADVENT AND CHRISTMAS SERVICES

  • Advent midweek services will be held:

    • Wednesday, November 30th at 11:00 am and 7:00 pm.

    • Wednesday, December 7th at 11:00 am and 7:00 pm.

    • Wednesday, December 14th at 11:00 am. (See below for information about the evening service on December 14th.)

    • Wednesday, December 21st at 11:00 am and 7:00 pm.

  • Other special Advent and Christmas services will be held as follows:

    • Preschool Christmas Program, Thursday, December 8th at 6:30 pm.

    • Christmas Reflections (Lessons and Carols), Wednesday, December 14th at 7:00 pm. Cider and cookies following!

    • Advent Prayer Breakfast, Saturday, December 17th at 9:30 am.

    • Christmas Eve Divine Service, Saturday, December 24th at 3:00 pm.

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

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

    • New Year's Day Divine Service, Sunday, January 1st, 2023 at 10:00 am.

    • Epiphany Divine Service at St. Peter Lutheran Church in Rockford, Friday, January 6th, 2023 at 7:00 pm. Supper beforehand at 6:00 pm!

Please note that the Wednesday evening services, the 7:00 pm Christmas Eve service and the Christmas & New Year's Day services are scheduled to be livestreamed as above.


WHAT'S UP, WHAT'S COMING
(Details in our weekly announcements and in the December newsletter)

  • CARES (Caring, Active, Reaching, Encouraging Sisters in Christ) continues on Wednesdays at 9:30 am, focusing on the book Chosen: A Study of Esther by Donna Snow. CARES will not meet on December 21st and 28th.

  • Our biweekly Bowling League continues on Sunday, December 11th at 3:00 pm at Northfield Lanes. Contact Joanne Gillette for more details.

  • Christmas Cookie and Craft Bazaar sponsored by the Parish Services Guild. this Saturday, December 3rd from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm. Contact Barb Brinkman, Sherry Troutwine, Deb Krueger or Tammy Ahrens if you'd like to help!

  • Christmas Caroling to Messiah's homebound members and others on Saturday, December 10th from 3:00 to 6:00 pm, with a potluck supper following. Sign-up sheets are now available at the Welcome Center and in Adult Bible Class.


DECEMBER NEWSLETTER
Our December newsletter is now available online! Click here to preview or download it in its entirety. A reminder that:

  • Paper copies of the newsletter are available for members and guests at the Welcome Center. We also continue to mail the newsletter to homebound members. If you want to continue receiving the newsletter, please contact the church office to make arrangements.

  • We also post the newsletter (including monthly calendars) online at www.messiahgr.org/news; calendars are also online separately at www.messiahgr.org/calendar.


FROM DEACONESS DORIS KAYSER
"Greetings in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ! I hope this finds you well and enjoying this wonderful Christmas season. I want to give you an update, as I still consider us family!!"

"I am settling in nicely after my move to Arkansas. I keep busy with church activities at Pastor Emil Woerner’s church, Friends in Christ Lutheran Church in Bryant, Arkansas. I joined a local orchestra, the Saline Symphony Orchestra, in which I play my clarinet. We will perform a Christmas Concert on December 10th. I also joined the Arkansas Choral Society. We will perform Handel’s Messiah on December 2nd. I always enjoy being musically active!!"

"In July, I saw a new infectious disease specialist in Washington, D.C. at the Jemsek Specialty Clinic. The diagnosis is Lyme Borreliosis Complex. I’m currently on an oral treatment regimen; remission is possible, but it may take 1-2 years to get rid of the infection. I’m very thankful for the opportunity to be treated at this clinic, and for the people at my new church that have helped to clean my apartment and do some grocery shopping for me. And mostly, I’m very thankful the Lord brought Emil into my life!!"

"My 96-year-old Dad is doing pretty well in Caledonia. It’ll be one year this year (November 21st) that Mom went to be with Jesus. Dad enjoys time with nearby family and many friends. Izzy, his cat, also helps with the loneliness. Lord willing, my dad plans to visit us in Arkansas in the spring."

"I miss all of you at Messiah and wish you a very merry Christmas! May our Lord Jesus Christ be ever present with you this Christmas Season!! Thanks be to God!!"


Yours in Christ,


Rick Krueger, Parish Assistant

November 15 Update

Dear Brothers and Sisters at Messiah,

After a bit of a lull in the early part of this month, we hope that this list of opportunities for worship, devotion, fellowship and service (including highlighted new events) will be helpful as you look to the busy weeks ahead. 


WORSHIP AND CLASS SCHEDULE:


WHAT'S UP, WHAT'S COMING
(Details in our weekly announcements and in the November newsletter)

  • CARES (Caring, Active, Reaching, Encouraging Sisters in Christ) continues on Wednesdays at 9:30 am, focusing on the book Chosen: A Study of Esther by Donna Snow. CARES will not meet on Wednesday, November 23rd.

  • Potluck and Annual Voters' Meeting Sunday, November 20th following the 11 am service. The agenda includes election of officers & board members, approval of the 2023 budget and more.

  • Thanksgiving Eve Divine Service Wednesday, November 23rd at 7:00 pm. Held at Messiah, this will be a joint Thanksgiving Eve service with our brothers & sisters of St. Peter Lutheran Church in Rockford.

  • Advent begins on Sunday, November 27th! Advent midweek services will be held on

    • Wednesday, November 30th at 11:00 am and 7:00 pm.

    • Wednesday, December 7th at 11:00 am and 7:00 pm.

    • Wednesday, December 14th at 11:00 am. (Our annual service of Lessons and Carols, Christmas Relfections, will also be held on the 14th at 7:00 pm, with desserts following.)

    • Wednesday, December 21st at 11:00 am and 7:00 pm

  • Our biweekly Bowling League continues on Sunday, November 27th and Sunday, December 11th at 3:00 pm at Northfield Lanes. Contact Joanne Gillette for more details.

  • Christmas Cookie and Craft Bazaar sponsored by the Parish Services Guild on Saturday, December 3rd from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm.

  • NEW! Preschool Christmas Program Thursday, December 8th at 6:30 pm.

  • NEW! Christmas Caroling to Messiah's homebound members and others on Saturday, December 10th from 3:00 to 6:00 pm, with a potluck supper following. Sign-up sheets are now available at the Welcome Center and in Adult Bible Class.

  • NEW! Advent Prayer Breakfast Saturday, December 17th at 9:30 am. Sign-up sheets are now available at the Welcome Center and in Adult Bible Class.


LOOKING AHEAD:
November 20th is the Last Sunday of the Church Year -- previously known in our circles as Christ the King Sunday or the Sunday of the Fulfillment. It might seem odd that the final Gospel in our year of readings from Luke focuses on -- the crucifixion of Jesus?!? But then, with the confession of faith from the dying thief, "Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom," and Jesus' reply from the cross, “Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise,” the reason becomes clear. Christ our King's gloryis His cross, where He fulfills His promises -- and makes peace between us and His Father by His blood!

On November 23rd we pause for Thanksgiving Eve, where we cry with the ten lepers, "Jesus, Master, have mercy on us," returning to our Lord's house to praise Him for His undeserved goodness. I hope you plan to join the members of St. Peter-Rockford and Messiahat Messiahfor this special Divine Service.

Then, it's Advent! As we begin these four weeks of reflection, penitence and patient joy, look for Christ'sfirstcoming at Christmas, Hissecondcoming on the Last Day, and Hisconstantcoming into our hearts by Word and Sacrament throughout our readings and hymns. Our midweek services of Matins and Evening Prayer will hone in on the appointed Old Testament reading and Psalm for each week, seeing how the psalmists and the prophet Isaiah pointed to Jesus' birth, suffering, death, resurrection and ongoing reign at the Father's right hand -- all undertaken foryou!

Blessings to you all as we feed on the spiritual food our good Shepherd continues to give us in the weeks to come.

Yours in Him,


Rick Krueger, Parish Assistant

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