The Parishioner 1 The Parishioner Volume 21, Issue 9 A Publication of St. Mark’s Evangelical Lutheran Church September 2016 A Family Reunion “It was like attending a family reunion.” That is the way many people described the week of our NALC Convocation in Anaheim, California on August 8 – 12. Clergy and laity gathered from around the country and Canada for the week long events that included a gathering of the Lutheran Church Women, a Mission Festival, the Dr. Carl E. Braaten and Robert Benne Lectures in Theology, great ministry workshops, many inspiring sermons, and a mission focused business meeting of our national church body. What makes a good family reunion? When a family enjoys being together it shows! When people look forward to seeing those they have not been with for an extended period of time. When there is unity and mutual respect in the family for one another. When people listen to each other’s stories and are proud of their family members many accomplishments. When we bear each other’s burdens, share concerns and joys. You know when you are attending a good family reunion and you leave having been energized, built up in love and in your own identity as a member of the family. And of course there is good food! Such was the experience of many of us who attended the Convocation of The North American Lutheran Church. We were in unity around the Gospel, in mission for Christ, in service to the world God loves and has come to save. Friends shared in lavish meals – they ate bread and drank wine together around Holy Communion. We were built up in holy conversation around the Word of God, and enjoyed being together with one another to be built up for service to Christ and our neighbor through the Lutheran Church. It may be too much to ask but such an experience is some of what I hope Rally Day Weekend September 10-11 th will be like for us as we gather at St. Mark’s as a Church Family to begin a new season of ministry and life together as a congregation. Coming to Church every Sunday for Sunday School and Worship, if we are a healthy Christ-Centered Church, should be like a family reunion where we look forward to coming together to be with brothers and sisters in Christ, in the presence of God and All the Saints. It should build us up, strengthen us in our ability to love our families and ourselves, and empower us to witness our faith, to serve one another and our neighbor. This is what a “Discipleship Church” looks like and why we are striving to be one! I hope to see you at our Family Reunion on Rally Weekend. In Christ, Pastor Al Towberman
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The Parishioner 1
The Parishioner Volume 21, Issue 9 A Publication of St. Mark’s Evangelical Lutheran Church September 2016
A Family Reunion
“It was like attending a family reunion.”
That is the way many people described the week of our NALC Convocation in Anaheim, California on August 8 – 12. Clergy and laity gathered from around the country and Canada for the week long events that included a gathering of the Lutheran Church Women, a Mission Festival, the Dr. Carl E. Braaten and Robert Benne Lectures in Theology, great ministry workshops, many inspiring sermons, and a mission focused business meeting of our national church body.
What makes a good family reunion? When a family enjoys being together it shows! When people look forward to seeing those they have not been with for an extended period of time. When there is unity and mutual respect in the family for one another. When people listen to each other’s stories and are proud of their family members many accomplishments. When we bear each other’s burdens, share concerns and joys. You know when you are attending a good family reunion and you leave having been energized, built up in love and in your own identity as a member of the family. And of course there is good food!
Such was the experience of many of us who attended the Convocation of The North American Lutheran Church. We were in unity around the Gospel, in mission for Christ, in service to the world God loves and has come to save. Friends shared in lavish meals – they ate bread and drank wine together around Holy Communion. We were built up in holy conversation around the Word of God, and enjoyed being together with one another to be built up for service to Christ and our neighbor through the Lutheran Church.
It may be too much to ask but such an experience is some of what I hope Rally Day Weekend September 10-11th will be like for us as we gather at St. Mark’s as a Church Family to begin a new season of ministry and life together as a congregation.
Coming to Church every Sunday for Sunday School and Worship, if we are a healthy Christ-Centered Church, should be like a family reunion where we look forward to coming together to be with brothers and sisters in Christ, in the presence of God and All the Saints. It should build us up, strengthen us in our ability to love our families and ourselves, and empower us to witness our faith, to serve one another and our neighbor.
This is what a “Discipleship Church” looks like and why we are striving to be one!
I hope to see you at our Family Reunion on Rally Weekend. In Christ, Pastor Al Towberman
The Parishioner 2
Greetings from the NALC Convocation, Holy God, Holy Life…
Elaine Walker
It was a pleasure representing St. Mark’s at the gathering of Lutherans. We are in the Mid-Northeast Mission District and I got to meet many of the others in our district, both ministers and lay people. It’s good to put a face to the ones I hear about. We were able to discuss our concerns and triumphs. It was very helpful. You would have been impressed with the over 400 voices singing praises to our Lord in harmony. It was inspirational and uplifting. I thought I would get tired of sitting for hours at a time, but I found that the sermons and devotions were interesting and informative. I didn’t even look at my watch! The first day I spent with the Women of the Church learning what they were doing in each of their congregations and their involvement in missions. We went over operational guidelines and spiritual growth reports. We had a Bible Study on Joshua 24 with good discussions. The afternoon session was a presentation from the Youth Ministry of Gary and Laurie Pecuch on Faith Webbing which gets the whole church involved with the youth. It was an interesting concept. We also talked about NALC disaster response and what we could do as a congregation to help others when needed. I was given lots of “food for thought” as to what we can do in our mission ministry. There is lots of support available if the congregation wants to avail themselves of it. Day 2 ~~ Bishop Bradosky’s theme was “Faith is Made Whole in the Community”. Again, I saw the support of all the churches working together. Thursday, we had our Festival Eucharist and opening of the Convocation “Holy God, Holy Lives”. There were 181 Clergy who attended. It was good to see them being fed, just as we are at St. Mark’s each Sunday. Our pastors need support and encouragement just as we do. Our afternoon speaker was Melcom Guite, a professor of English and writer who looked like a small Santa Clause and spoke with an English accent. You had to listen closely as he spoke of C.S. Lewis and his writings. Friday, the devotions were led by Steve Bell who sang and played the guitar masterfully. What a delight that was. He put the gospel to music. Dr. Jim Nestingen delivered the Bible Study on 1st Peter, Chapter 1. He shared with us how holiness starts at home and that it is not an achievement but holiness, is being washed in the Blood of Christ ~ a gift of the Holy Spirit. As various persons were introduced from many countries and other faiths, we noted there were more similarities than differences. There were so many good workshops to attend that it was hard to decide which ones to visit. The one I chose was “Why I Don’t Believe in the Rapture” given by Pastor Mark Braaten. It was very interesting. I even found the budget interesting and I’m not one for figures. I was pleased to see the NALC has planned well and was concerned about spending. They should have about 5 – 6 % of each of our budges to run the missions of the church. Unfortunately, the average giving is only 2 – 3 % and ours at St. Mark’s is only 1 ½ - 2 % . Some churches don’t give any. We need to step it up! They know that all the churches are struggling so we are not alone. The theme that seemed to run through the conference was that of discipleship ~ working one on one and growing from there. We need to step outside our doors ministering to those in need. It’s not numbers we need to concern ourselves with, but the Great Commission God has given us to make disciples of all nations. The Holy Spirit will lead us on if we are about His business.
The next Convocation is August 7, 2017 in Nashville, Tennessee.
I hope some of you can attend!
The Parishioner 3
~ Rally Day Weekend ~
September 10 & 11, 2016
“Let’s Rally Back to Church & Sunday School!”
*Sunday morning from 9:00 – 10:00 am*
“Education…is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” ~Nelson Mandela
Sunday School Classes beginning a new year
– September 11, 2016 @ 9:00 am Where Kids and Families are working to grow
10:15 AM As we begin the new school year all Children and Youth of St. Mark’s Congregation and from St. Mark’s Children’s Hour are invited to bring their school backpacks along with their Bible to church on September 11th, where they will be blessed at the 10:15 a.m. Sunday Worship Service.
(Mark 10:13-16, Ephesians 6:10-20)
SMLC 2016-2017 Confirmation Class Schedule September 2016 – January 2017
October 2 *Take Sermon Notes Sunday Morning at Church
4:30 – 6:00 PM Sunday Afternoon
“The Sabbath Commandment”
+The Ten Commandments – Lesson 3, pages 12-15
October 16 4:30 – 6:00 PM Sunday Afternoon
“Authority” and “Protection”
+The Ten Commandments – Lessons 4 & 5 pages 16-23
October 28-29 Friday – Saturday Overnight Confirmation Retreat at
The Church with Pastor T and Darcie“
All Saints Day Retreat” - Dietrich Bonhoeffer Movie/Haunted House
The NALC and Our CORE VASLUES
Friday 6:00 PM through Saturday morning 10:00 AM
November 6 *Take Sermon Notes Sunday Morning at Church
4:30 – 6:00 PM Sunday Afternoon
“Fidelity”
+The Ten Commandments – Lesson 6, pages 24-27
November 20 4:30 – 6:00 PM Sunday Afternoon
“Responsibility”
+The Ten Commandments – Lesson 7, pages 28-30
December 4 *Take Sermon Notes Sunday Morning at Church
4:30 – 6:00 PM Sunday Afternoon
“Integrity”
+The Ten Commandments – Lesson 8, pages 32-35
December 11 Confirmation Class Christmas Caroling
Sunday 2:00 – 4:00 PM
December 18 4:30 – 6:00 PM Sunday Afternoon
“Contentment” and “Consequences”
+The Ten Commandments, Lessons 9 &10, pages 36-4
Christmas Break
Confirmation Class Resumes, January 8, 2017
Confirmation will be Celebrated On Pentecost, June 4, 2017
The Parishioner 6
St. Mark’s Senior Luncheon
Do you know someone that is blessed with 80 years of age or more?
The Women of the Church are hosting a luncheon for members of St. Mark’s Lutheran Church who are 80 years of age and older.
Seniors (and a guest) are cordially invited to attend the St. Mark’s Senior
Luncheon in the Fellowship Hall of St. Mark’s Lutheran Church on Tuesday, September 20th at 12:00 PM.
We are so happy to have you as part of our Church Family!
For more information contact Carri Smith at (724) 712-6767.
HOPE TO SEE YOU ON SEPTEMBER 20TH!
Christian Education News
Here we are once again having completed yet another circle around the sun and arriving at the start of a new education year. Once again we find ourselves filling our fall calendars, taking account of all the added activities, and trying to figure out how best to divide up the hours of our days.
This past week in church our guest Pastor asked this question, “What are your priorities?” In a web search about the idea of priorities I found these lines, “German writer Johann Wolfgang von Goethe grasped the importance of priorities. He said, ‘Things which matter most must never be at the mercy of things which matter least.’” (lifehopeandtruth.com/change/Christian-conversion/Christian-priorities/)
As parents, and frankly as adults, it is often hard to discern where our time is best spent. We are constantly faced with more choices and opportunities than we have time in our days. If you are like me, choosing to hibernate away from the busyness of life is the choice I would like to make, but being a hermit has only selfish benefits and the well-being of our children and ourselves calls us to participate in the world around us.
When filling in your calendars for this 4th quarter season of 2016 I ask you to consider this statement, “Long term thinking has long term rewards” (author unknown). Are you thinking “long term” for your kids and yourselves, will the things that fill your days have “long term rewards?”
Consider joining us in church and/or Sunday School for this new education year here at St. Mark’s. Make attendance one of those priorities that matter most, so that, “He Himself [Christ] will come to have first place in everything, (Colossians 1:18). Give yourselves the gift of long term rewards with Christ. We look forward to seeing you this fall.
Joyfully thanking God for each of you,
Wendy Holt, Christian-Ed Chairperson
The Parishioner 7
The Parishioner 8
The Parishioner 9
St. Mark’s Youth Camp “Rooted In Christ”
Making memories that last
Daily lessons and activities And
Small group discussions
Campfires And
Worship
Outdoor Sermons with friends Learning to be
“Rooted in Christ”
Friendly Volleyball Competition
We are looking forward to next year’s Youth Camp!
See you there!
The Parishioner 10
BEGINNING OUR 45th SCHOOL YEAR
“CHILDREN’S HOUR”
2016-2017 St. Mark’s Lutheran Church
201 W. Jefferson St., Butler, PA 16001
724-287-6741
**Orientation meeting for parents:
Wednesday, September 7th @ 6:00 p.m.**
First day of class is September 14th.
“Children’s Hour” meets every Wednesday, 9:30-11:30 a.m. for children ages 2 yrs. through Kindergarten, from September through May. “Children’s Hour” is a teaching ministry of St. Mark’s Evangelical Lutheran Church. Our purpose is to help each child come to know they are a gift of God.
Here, the kids learn about Jesus, have fun and develop social interactive skills in a safe, loving, caring
Christian environment with traditional family values. All persons and all faiths are welcome!!
*35.00 fee for the year!
TO REGISTER OR FOR MORE INFORMATION:
CALL DARCIE POMYKATA or THE CHURCH OFFICE: 724-287-6741
Notes From The Perch
The Sanctuary Choir began rehearsals on Wednesday evening, August 31, 6:30-8:00
pm. and will continue every Wednesday thereafter. The choir is open to anyone from 7th grade through the senior years. We are in need of voices in all ranges, particularly men, to augment our already well-established choir. Our first Sunday to sing will be Rally Day, September 11th.
CALLING ALL YOUTH!!!
The Youth Choir rehearsals will begin on Sunday, September 18th, immediately following
the 10:15 am worship. Rehearsals will continue every Sunday thereafter. The choir is open to 2nd grade through 12th grade and will sing once a month. The choir’s first scheduled Sunday to sing is October 16th.
For information for either Choir,
please contact “Mr. Ralph”, Director of Music at 724-285-3653.
Eve Bible Study will be meeting on Tuesday, September 20th at 3:00 pm in the Church Lounge. The study will continue in the book “Mark, Follow Me”. The study that afternoon is “Palm Sunday”.
Bell Ringers Needed St. Mark’s Bell Choir will resume Handbell rehearsals Tuesday, September 6, 2016 at 6:30 pm in the sanctuary. The group is open to 7th graders and up. No experience is necessary – new members are welcome. We would love you to join us! *See Rebecca Veith or contact the Church Office for more information and jump in!!
Dear Parishioners of St. Mark’s Lutheran Church ~
We would like to thank you for your contribution to the City of Butler. We understand the budgeting challenges that many organizations face. With your help the City of Butler strives to keep our resources at a high quality of life for all. We are grateful for your willingness to keep Butler a wonderful community!
Sincerely, Thomas P. Donaldson Mayor, City of Butler
Thank you to all who filled school bags this year. The
ladies of “3T” delivered 130 bags to Glade Run
Lutheran Services and Dunbar Community Center for students!
Dear Friends,
Thank you for donating totes filled with school supplies. Your generous support enables the vital ministry of Glade Run Lutheran Services to continue.
Charles Lockwood
Dear St. Mark’s family ~
My family wishes to thank everyone for all the prayers that were raised for our dear Aunt Joanne. She was a true gift of God.
She surely appreciated everyone who sent cards, called or went to see her.
Thanks to Pastor Towberman for coming to give communion and prayers in her last hours. And for the beautiful service to “send her off”. Thank you to Karen Krenitsky for the wonderful music she played during Joanne’s service and to St. Mark’s Choir for singing at the service. I’m sure Aunt Joanne was with you in spirit.
The lovely rose in tribute to Joanne was greatly appreciated. And thank you to the hands who cooked and who served our delicious luncheon.
At a time like this it is such a comfort to know we have a church family who cared for our Aunt Joanne as much as we did.
In God’s love, The family of (Aunt) Joanne Lewis
Melissa Somerville
The Parishioner 12
Community ANNUAL YARD SALE!! 248 New Castle Rd., Butler
September 10th
9:00 AM - ???
ALL proceeds benefit Katie’s Kitchen and the work they do for
the community!
We NEED your treasures (please no clothing)!!
If you have items that you would like to donate to the sale, you can drop them off (the week of Sept 5th)
at Spectrum Insurance ~ 248 New Castle Rd. in Butler or call Linda at 724-882-1329
to arrange for your items to be picked up.
Every penny that is earned from the yard sale goes to help others in our community. When a need is identified,
we help by buying what is needed or a gift card, etc. We do not hand out cash at any time. We are able to
do these things because of YOU – your generosity!!
FREE: Medical screenings, clothes, shoes, hygiene products, a light meal, haircuts, entertainment, and multiple organizations with resource information and referrals will be available.
Transportation to the event from designated pick up areas!
*For more information, please contact:
Christie Beaver, VA Butler Healthcare ~ 724-996-8576 Allyson Rose, Butler County Human Services ~ 724-284-5114 Roy Remone, Mental Health Association ~ 724-290-9204
www.butler.va.gov/services/homeless
COME OUT AND SHOW YOUR SUPPORT TO OUR
LOCAL VETERANS AND SERVICE MEMBERS!
THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING
KATIE’S KITCHEN!!
Butler County: Butler VA: 325 New Castle Rd. Butler, PA 16001
Friday, September 30, 2016 Noon – 4 pm
Serving Homeless Veterans, Service Members, their
families, Community Members, and families in need.
Regular Office Hours are Mon-Fri 8:00 am – 5:00 pm.
1
5:00 Katie’s Kitchen
6:00 Finance Comm.
2
5:00 Church Closed
3
6:00 Worship / HC
4 16th Sunday After Pentecost
8:00 & 10:15
Worship/HC
9:00 Sunday School
10:15 Children’s
Church
5
6
6:30 Bell Choir
7
6:00 Children’s Hour
Parent Orientation
6:30 Sanctuary Choir
8
*Sausage Orders due*
5:00 Katie’s Kitchen
6:00 Finance Comm.
9
5:00 Church Closed
10
9:00 Katie’s Kitchen Benefit
248 New Castle Rd.
Butler
6:00 Worship / HC
11 Rally Day
8:00 & 10:15 Worship
9:00 Sunday School
10:15 “Blessing of the
Backpacks”
10:15 Children’s
Church
4:30 Confirmation
12
*Cornerstone
articles due
5:00 Church Closed
13
9:30 Ruth Circle
6:30 Bell Choir
7:00 Church Council
14
9:30 Children’s Hour
1:00 Prayer Shawl
6:30 Sanctuary Choir
15
*Parishioner
articles due
5:00 Katie’s Kitchen
6:00 Finance Comm.
16
5:00 Church Closed
17
6:00 Worship / HC
18 18th Sunday After Pentecost
8:00 & 10:15
Worship/HC
9:00 Sunday School
10:15 Children’s
Church
11:15 Youth Choir
4:30 Confirmation
4:30 Jr. Youth
6:00 Sr. Youth
19
*Cornerstone
articles due
5:00 Church Closed
20
12:30 Christian
Senior Luncheon
6:30 Bell Choir
21
9:30 Children’s Hour
5:30 Worship / Music
7:00 Sanctuary Choir
22
First Day of Fall
5:00 Katie’s Kitchen
23
5:00 Church Closed
24
6:00 Worship / HC
25
8:00 & 10:15 Worship
9:00 Sunday School
10:15 Children’s
Church
11:15 Youth Choir
3:00 Handbell Concert
& Hymn Sing
– Sue Garton 4:30 Confirmation
26
*Cornerstone
articles due
5:00 Church Closed
27
3:00 Eve Bible Study
6:30 Bell Choir
28
9:30 Children’s Hour
6:30 Sanctuary Choir
29
5:00 Katie’s Kitchen
30
5:00 Church Closed
The First Labor Day… Contrary to the present practice, the first Labor Day holiday was celebrated on Tuesday, Sept. 5, 1882 in NYC, in accordance with the plans of the Central Labor Union and was celebrated again the next year. However, it was in 1884 when the first Monday in Sept. came to be selected as the holiday. Other organizations were urged to celebrate the “Workingmen’s” Holiday on that date. The idea spread and has continued on since 1885.