Concordia's Season Deaconess
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A Publication Of Concordia Lutheran Church
† † November 2020
Concordia’s Season
Deaconess
Deaconess Andra
Gates returns to serve with us
up to 30-hours per week
November 2020 through
April 2021. She’s eager to
help Concordia 1) welcome
guests at weekend worship,
2) follow up building
relationships with our guests,
and 3) reach out to friends
and members who have drifted
from worship. This season,
she’ll also help us visit and care
for our homebound and those
in skilled care, as numbers
have risen in the pandemic and
our elders are less able to visit.
“Our” deaconess is a
2018 Master of Arts in
Deaconess Studies graduate of
our LCMS’ Ft. Wayne Indiana
seminary. She’s just
completed her internship
serving in a multitude of ways
with 12 congregations and 8
pastors in her home Yankton
South Dakota circuit. She’s
thrilled to launch her “second
career” with us. “Thank you
again for this great opportunity
to serve!”
In Andy’s first career
she served in South Dakota
(and a couple of years in
Nebraska) as a Registered
Nurse in hospitals, health
centers and the state
penitentiary. Receiving her
parish nurse certificate from
Concordia College Mequon Wisconsin in 1997,
she’s also volunteered that help (and more!) to All Saints (with You)!
her church. She and Gary, now a retired chef, Worship on October 28, 31 or November 1
wed in 1980. (All Saint’s Day). Concordia celebrates the ancient
Deaconess Gates time and driving costs festival (c. 300 A.D.). What has Jesus’
will be compensated with our donors “over and forgiveness accomplished? We, with all Jesus’
above” gifts to Concordia’s New Worker Fund. blood-bought, are “All Saints!” And we’ll give
That fund (after our previous three seasons) now God thanks for those who walked the faith before
holds $18,466, near this season’s costs. us, especially those He has called home to
“Jesus, You see Sarasota as a field ripe to Himself in the year past.
be harvested. Gather us and many more to “Remind us, dear Spirit, that we live
Your love. Into Your field send us and all Your always with our Lord, the Father’s Son!”
workers!”
The Courier - November 2020
Pray How? THE LORD’S PRAYER (continued) Drive-In Worship!
Concordia’s own AM signal
Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy now casts our worship system’s sound
name. Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done on earth across our parking lot. (Alas, not much
as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; and further.) Tune in your radio to AM 1090
forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who during any of our worship services…
trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, Wednesday or Saturday eve, or Sunday
but deliver us from evil. For Thine is the kingdom and morn early or late. Listen in while inside
the power and glory forever and ever. Amen. the safety (comfort?) of your car! Or RV,
The Fifth Petition moped...?! The signal may not reach our
And forgive us our trespasses as we Wood Street circle drive. Please listen
forgive those who trespass against us. from our School Avenue parking lot.
What does this mean? We pray in this petition After others worship inside,
that our Father in heaven would not look at our Pastor will bring the Lord’s Supper out
sins, or deny our prayer because of them. We are to those who tuned in from their cars.
neither worthy of the things for which we pray, nor During the work week, please tell our
have we deserved them, but we ask that He would Parish Secretary Lei Ann (365-0844) that
give them all to us by grace, for we daily sin much and you hope to come. Or, later, leave a
surely deserve nothing but punishment. So we too voicemail or text message on Pastor
will sincerely forgive and gladly do good to those Stephen’s cellular phone. (His number is
who sin against us. on the church answering machine.)
Our short-distance radio system
The Sixth Petition will help also in days without social
And lead us not into temptation distancing. Some folks can’t enter our
What does this mean? God tempts no one. We sanctuary due to severe allergies. And
pray in this petition that God would guard and keep what about those serving in the nursery
us so that the devil, the world, and our sinful nature room? Or Willer Hall kitchen workers?
may not deceive us or mislead us into false belief, Even neighbors and those driving by may
despair, and other great shame and vice. Although tune to our signal! Many people will be
we are attacked by these things, we pray that we blessed.
may finally overcome them and win the victory.
The Seventh Petition Guest Preacher Hill
But deliver us from evil. Reverend Gary Hill returns to
What does this mean? We pray in this petition, Concordia’s pulpit Wednesday, October
in summary, that our Father in heaven would rescue 28; Saturday, October 31 and all three
us from every evil of body and soul, possessions and services on Sunday, November 1.
reputation, and finally, when our last hour comes, give Pastor Hill will preach Jesus’ Good News
us a blessed end, and graciously take us from this again Sunday November 22, and the
valley of sorrow to Himself in heaven. Wednesday and Saturday preceding.
The Conclusion Then he and Carol return to chilly north
For Thine is the kingdom and the power and the lands? December is for grandkids!
glory forever and ever.* Amen. The Gaulke family planned a
What does this mean? This means that I should be vacation from Friday, October 30
certain that these petitions are pleasing to our Father through Monday, November 2. But
in heaven, and are heard by Him; for He Himself has Pastor Stephen may not take those days,
commanded us to pray in this way and has promised depending on Ellen’s parents’ healing.
to hear us. Amen, amen means “yes, yes, it shall be
so.” Daylight Saving Time Ends
Sunday November 1 ends
*These concluding words were not in Luther’s Daylight Saving Time. “Fall back” as
Small Catechism. Reflecting 2 Timothy 4:18 and you go to bed on October 31, setting
Revelation 4:11, early Christians added these closing back your clocks one hour. Grab an
praises to Jesus’ prayer. Find Jesus’ teaching about extra hour of rest that Saturday night.
prayer at Matthew 6:9-13 and Luke 11.
From the “Small Catechism.” Written by the
Rev. Dr. Martin Luther in 1529, the little book is treasured Giving Thanks to the Giver
still by the world’s 81 million Lutherans for clearly Our church office closes on
opening the Bible’s truth and celebrating the heart of the November 26 and 27 in celebration of
Christian faith. Translation- CPH, St. Louis ©1992. Thanksgiving Day. All thanks to God!
The Courier - November 2020
Church Council Nominations
Concordia’s voters meet very brienfly on We Remember Gennie
December 2, 5 and 6, after each and every Generosa Moringlane (nee Fjordmann)
Wednesday night, Saturday eve, and Sunday Mueller, age 89, died trusting in her resurrected
morn worship service. We will elect council Christ on September 14, 2020. She was born in
leaders to continue the good work of those who Vieques, Puerto Rico October 31, 1930. On July
have served to their limit (2 terms of 2 years): 19, 1931 by baptism there she was reborn into
Concordia’s Recording Secretary Wayne Ulbrich, Jesus’ forever family.
Financial Secretary Walt Naughton, and At St. Athanasius Church, Bronx, New York,
Treasurer Phyllis Kirtley. The assembly will set Gennie married Walter "Henry" H.C. Mueller on
our 2021 budget. We will hear an update on October 27, 1956. In 1975 Gennie confirmed her
the Concordia 75th Anniversary Renovations faith at Iglesia Evangelica Luterana Reconciliacion,
Fund, agreed last year, to 1) renovate the Levittown, Puerto Rico. In 1988 the family came
ushers’ room as a welcome center with handicap- from Puerto Rico to Sarasota. They soon became
accessible restroom, 2) upgrade sanctuary active members with our Concordia. The Lord
carpeting and 3) storm-strength windows. The called home her husband on August 1, 2002.
voters may respond to any other items previously Gennie is survived by her son Eric, his wife
announced at our weekend worship. Janet, and their daughter Daniella, of Sarasota; as
well her sisters Felicia and Ruby of New York City.
Our Constitution requires that our Council
Nominations Task Force be comprised of a Gennie delighted to hear Jesus’ Good News
majority who are not currently council members. and to receive Jesus’ body and blood in His Feast.
Could you prayerfully help us find new leaders? She long enjoyed serving with Concordia’s Altar
Or would you like to nominate someone to Guild and fellowship meals, caring for Jesus’ altar
council (even yourself)? Please speak a.s.a.p. to and building friendships. She took to heart Jesus’
our congregation’s Vice President Norma forgiveness and lived out His love towards others.
Roembke (266-3311). Family and friends gathered at Concordia
October 24 to give God thanks for His servant’s
“Lead us, Lord Jesus. Always give us life and faith. Gennie’s earthly remains rest in
leaders who seek Your heart!” Brentwood, New York. Even now Gennie’s spirit
rejoices with her Savior in paradise as she awaits
Jesus Is Good News! the day of bodily resurrection.
ConcordiaSarasota.org is serving well The family thanks you for your prayers and
as our news center. Most days you’ll see posted loving support.
there some Good News from Jesus. There
everyone can see our Facebook page. (You
don’t have to join Facebook.) There see also our
“Concordia Sarasota Lutheran Church” YouTube
channel. Join worship from this week, or past.
This newsletter will be available only by
email (almost exclusively). Does Pastor Stephen
or Concordia have your email? If you are not
sure, please email Concordia5@juno.com.
Do you have any news, stories,
encouragements or prayer requests? You
could ask that we share these across Concordia.
Or let Pastor Stephen keep that in his personal
prayers. Articles for our December Concordia
Courier are due November 11.
Some still can not “go to church” with the
rest of us. But always is the time for all of us to
“be church” to those around us. With whom
can you share Jesus and His kindness?
Please let me know how Concordia can
best serve you (365-0844). As needed, I can
visit. How can we help you share Jesus' service
with your neighbors?
Let’s pray that the Resurrected Rescue
works His wonders, also through us!
Pastor Stephen, 941-365-0844
The Courier - November 2020
To Teens (and all Young Hearts)
Greetings Concordia Parents and Teens,
In 1849 French author Jean-Baptiste Alphonse Karr
wrote, “The more things change, the more they stay the
same.” I remembered this quote while reading a newsletter
from my Home Owners’ Assoc. In it they talked about all the
services in our community that have remained the same
during the changes brought to us by Covid-19: security,
finances, infrastructure, landscaping, etc.
As I was sitting in our beautiful sanctuary for worship
this morning (masked and socially distanced of course), I
was reminded, not of change, but of how much has
remained the same at Concordia this year. The altar
paraments continue to reflect various seasons and
celebrations in the church year as always.
Pastor Stephen is still leading worship and serving us
the Lord’s Supper as always. He continues to support us
through prayer, and phone calls on birthdays and
anniversaries as always. Speaking of anniversaries, Pastor
Stephen has been a faithful servant in the LCMS for 35 years!
Pray for his continued service.
Johnora is still playing all our favorite hymns on the
organ as always. I hear that Dawn Brown is back wowing
us with her talent on the piano at the early service, as photos- Euder Paul, seminarian.
always.
The living word of the Lord instructs and encourages Youth Group 2019 Halloween.
us as always. Remember when we did not need
Friends gather for worship as always. to mask for Halloween? Not scary.
Yes, life looks very different for all of us this year, but
there are still many things that remain the same: The love of
family, the fellowship of friends and church family and a God who is the
same yesterday, today and forever (Heb. 13:8).
Perhaps church is that place where we can get away from the anxiety
brought on by change, and be comforted by the unchanging traditions and
our changeless God who loves us no matter what. There is a young
woman in our church who chose to attend church alone while in college. She
was far away from her family and church home and told me that
college life could be unsettling,
but in the church she could find
peace.
Wishing you all God’s
peace and very good
health! As always.
Ruth Bogenberger
(one Concordia teen and
family leader)
The Courier - November 2020
Concordia’s Seminarian 4 years. That is to say, from 2010-2014 as a
seminarian I obtained my License in
I greet you in the name of Christ.
I am Euder Paul born in l'Acul-du-Nord, in Humanities and Philosophy at the Instituto
the north of Haiti, on May 27, 1982. My father's Filosofico Pedro Francisco Bono led by the Jesuit
name was Joseph Paul, my mother's name is Fathers and at the same time affiliated with the
Edeline Charles. I was born into a family of 5 INTEC University of Santo Domingo, R.D.
children; 3 girls and 2 boys. So, I am the youngest After my philosophical studies as a
of my family. I received my sacrament of baptism postulant with the Piarist Fathers, the Formators
on September 23, 1982 in the Parish of Our Lady sent me to the Novitiate in Bogota (Colombia) on
of the Nativity of l'Acul-du-Nord, my first January 26, 2014. There I esperienced only 9
communion in this same parish on July 11, 1993 months. During the training, the Master of Novices
and my sacrament of confirmation on June 3, 2001 asked me to come to my home.
in the Cathedral of Cap-Haitien. I returned to Haiti on September 26, 2014.
At home we spoke Haitian Creole. But in I was teaching philosophy, Spanish and
school we spoke French. I did my primary citizenship education in colleges in Port-au-
studies at the Ecole St-Nom de Jésus et de Marie Prince (Haiti) from October 2014-June 2017.
1988-1996 in my native village with Canadian nuns I came in United States in 2018 to continue
where I learned Christian, educational, social and my formation with Roman Catholic Church. I spent
human values. I participated a lot in choirs, choir 2 years with the Boynton Beach seminary.
boys or altar servers in the Parish and in After all these lively experiences in religious
movements like: Scouts, Croix-Rouge Jeunesse. All and priestly life and in teaching, I feel more invited
these pastoral, social and educational activities to give my life following Christ, at the service of
inspired me to be a priest one day without my neighbors, to become a disciple of Jesus in his
knowing the difference between a religious priest Church and of the whole world. I desire to serve in
and a diocesan priest, but I always wanted to the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod in the United
become a priest and a teacher. I already felt States, trying to live by the Gospel.
this call at the age of 11, immediately after my Some classmates told me about the
first communion in 1993. Unfortunately, I did not Lutheran church. My father’s mother, in Haiti,
have a vocational orientation from my parish priest was Lutheran. So when I had left the Catholic
or from other religious leaders. seminary and stayed with my sister’s family in
My secondary studies were shared between Sarasota, I did some online research. I phoned
the College Notre Dame and the College Bell Concordia Lutheran Church. I say thank you to
Angelot of Cap-Haitien in the years 1996-2004. Rev. Stephen Gaulke for welcoming me. Everyone
Afterwards, I studied Personalities and Human at church is kind! At the same time, I say thank
Relations with the PRH-International School of you to the Lord Creator of the Universe. On Him
Quebec by correspondence in the years 2004- depends my life, my intelligence and even my
2007. I trained in this psycho-educational branch imagination.
with the objective of serving and helping the SHAA I am now your brother communicant and
(Haitian Society for the Aid of the Blind) on a member. That is why I ask you to pray for me, for
voluntary basis. Immediately after these my vocation. Bishop Greg Walton, President with
humanistic studies, I went to the Dominican the Florida-Georgia District, has opened doors for
Republic on October 12, 2007 to study me to apply to our St. Louis seminary, so that I
Educational Sciences. So, the Dominican reality can respond to the call I feel to serve the Christian
changed my study perspective; I learned Church for the glory of God, for my spiritual
Spanish even before going to PUCMM University growth and for the good of my neighbors.
(Universidad Pontificia Catolica Madre y Maestra) It is true, I am not a perfect man. But I
where I was going to study Philosophy instead of have very great qualities. I am a man of prayer. I
studying Educational Sciences as I had planned. am a trustworthy, transparent and helpful young
That is to say, 2008-2009 I studied my first year of man who takes to heart the responsibilities
philosophy at PUCMM (Santo Domingo, R.D). entrusted to me. I am a very strong believer and
In the years 2010-2012, I studied Human have a very solid faith in Christian doctrine. I am
Rights with an Education specialization with the very jovial, creative. And I manifest a particular
Jesuit Fathers and the Inter-American Institute of taste for education, liturgy, pastoral theology,
Human Rights in Santo Domingo (R.D). It was at philosophy and Christology. I would like to become
this point in 2010, after having followed a period a pastor following Christ in the service of the
of vocational discernment with the Piarist Fathers Christian Church, to be a pastor to serve my
(los Escolapios) in the Dominican Republic, I brothers and sisters around the world.
decided to begin an experience of formation for God bless you! Euder Paul
religious life and to clarify my vocation to priestly P.S. from Pastor: If you worship with Euder or see
life. I had an experience of community life with our worship videos, hear his delight to read out
them while studying philosophy and humanity for our Scripture. And English is his 4th language!
The Courier - November 2020
November Birthdays November Anniversaries
02 Don Zaloudek 03 Jeffrey and Gabriela Schmidt - 47th
03 Betty Brady 05 Tom and Regina Mann - 26th
Joyanne Fathauer Denny and Alice Williams - 43rd
Michelle Gniady 07 Dwain and Shirley Gerstenberger - 67th
Kyle McMullen
Susie Moore 19 Chuck and Lei Ann Ahl - 26th
21 Charlie and Diane Scott - 34th
06 Betsy DiGruttolo
23 Bill and Raydine Alexander - 53rd
08 Renee Brown Jason and Tara Schmidt - 7th
Jacquelyn Williams - 15th
25 Ed and Judy Christian - 54th
09 Rachel Gaulke - 18th
Denise Scott 29 Jeremy and Helen Schmidt - 12th
10 Bill Alexander
Good Samaritan Fund
11 Marlene Coats Can we help you? Some of our fellow
Emily Sisk worshippers have faced financial difficulties
Jean Williams due to employment and other crises. When
critical bills come due, Pastor Stephen has been
12 Vivian Powter able to give them a bit of financial help thanks to
15 Jeremy Schmidt Concordia’s Good Samaritan Fund. In years
past, recipients have often given back to the
16 Dennis Jesse fund as they became able.
17 Lorene Simpson Struggling against the corona-virus crisis,
how many people will we be able to help? So
18 Brendan Lutsch far, at least three homes. Would you be
happy to give a gift “over and above” your
Rich Reiter regular offerings to the Lord?
20 Bob Kreie Please give your check to “Concordia,”
with the memo line and/or the envelope labeled
22 Nathanael Gaulke “Good Sam Fund.” Thanks!
Simeng Zhu
23 Zacharias Quamina - 12th
Nita Ball Scholarship Update
I’d like to thank you all for supporting the
25 Bob Ball fifth year of the Nita Ball Scholarship Fund. This
Scott Montgomery year was certainly different than the others.
Mainly the COVID-10 pandemic changes a lot of
27 Dave Battles things for us all. As a result, we were unable to
Jennifer McMullen host a dinner for all the
scholarship recipients.
30 Tom Malone With the bad news
there is good news. Ten
Birthday or anniversary missing? students received
Please pardon us. Tell our church office scholarships amounting to
(365-0844) when we miss dates. Share over $3,000. We pray that
the celebration! the monies will be used for
continued education and
Heartfelt Thanks fuel hopes for a bright
I want to thank Concordia future for each student.
Foundation, the Nita Ball Scholarship Fund Again thanks for your
and all who generously donate to both generous participation,
educational funds for the scholarships I heart filled prayers and
received that are helping me continue to continued support. God
reach my educational goals. bless you all and stay safe.
Sincerely, Lance Ahl (photo right) In His Love, Bob Ball
SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY
1 All Saints 2 3 4 5 6 7
Daylight Savings Time Ends - “Fall Back” ***7 p.m. Al-Anon Jesus serves us as we worship ALL EVENTS MARKED No Altar Guild Meeting 8 to 9 a.m. Free Bread
one hour Mtg. together! We now follow the RED WE EXPECT WILL 10:30 a.m. Women’s Evening Times - Worship with Holy
Morning Times Vary - Brief Worship with CDC’s Covid-19 health BE POSTPONED. G.i.F.t.S. Bible Zoom Communion
Holy Communion Pastor Gaulke on guidelines. Register before any MEETINGS IN BLACK, 10:30 a.m. Men’s Group Register at ConcordiaSarasota.org
Rev. Gary Hill, guest preacher vacation from worship service, so that all can ZOOM! or at church (941-365-0844)
Register at ConcordiaSarasota.org or October 30 to be comfortably physically
phone the church (941-365-0844) November 2 distanced. Register at
ConcordiaSarasota.org or phone
the church (941-365-0844)
8 Last Judgment 9 10 11 12 13 14
Morning Times Vary - Brief Worship with *** 8 to 9 a.m. Free Bread December Newsletter 10:30 a.m. Women’s 8 to 9 a.m. Free Bread
Holy Communion 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Aphasia Group in Deadline G.i.F.t.S. Bible Zoom Evening Times - Worship with Holy
Register at ConcordiaSarasota.org or Willer Hall Evening Times - Worship 10:30 a.m. Men’s Group Communion
phone the church (941-365-0844) 6 p.m. Council Meeting Zoom with Holy Communion Register at ConcordiaSarasota.org
Register at or at church (941-365-0844)
ConcordiaSarasota.org or
at church (941-365-0844)
15 Saints Triumphant 16 17 18 19 20 21
Morning Times Vary - Brief Worship with *** 8 to 9 a.m. Free Bread Evening Times - Worship 10:30 a.m. Women’s 8 to 9 a.m. Free Bread
Holy Communion with Holy Communion G.i.F.t.S. Bible Zoom 9 a.m. - Noon Church Clean-up Day
Register at ConcordiaSarasota.org or Register at 10:30 a.m. Men’s Group Evening Times - Worship with Holy
phone the church (941-365-0844) ConcordiaSarasota.org or Communion
at church (941-365-0844) Register at ConcordiaSarasota.org
*** or at church (941-365-0844)
22 Last Sunday of the Church Year 23 24 25 26 Thanksgiving Day 27 28
Morning Times Vary - Brief Worship with *** 8 to 9 a.m. Free Bread Evening Times - Worship Church office closed Church office FL-GA District Lutherans Virtual
Holy Communion with Holy Communion 10:30 a.m. Women’s closed Conference
Rev. Gary Hill, guest preacher Register at G.i.F.t.S. Bible Zoom 8 to 9 a.m. Free Bread
Register at ConcordiaSarasota.org or ConcordiaSarasota.org or 10:30 a.m. Men’s Group Evening Times - Worship with Holy
phone the church (941-365-0844) at church (941-365-0844) Communion
*** Register at ConcordiaSarasota.org
or at church (941-365-0844)
29 Advent 1 30 1 2 3 4 5
Morning Times Vary - Brief Worship with *** 8 to 9 a.m. Free Bread Evening Times - Worship Altar Guild Meeting 8 to 9 a.m. Free Bread
Holy Communion with Holy Communion 10:30 a.m. Women’s Evening Times - Worship with Holy
Register at ConcordiaSarasota.org or Register at G.i.F.t.S. Bible Zoom Communion
phone the church (941-365-0844) ConcordiaSarasota.org or 10:30 a.m. Men’s Group Register at ConcordiaSarasota.org
at church (941-365-0844) or at church (941-365-0844)
***
***Concordia’s Willer Fellowship Hall and (sometimes) the narthex of the church are used every Monday, Wednesday and quarterly Saturdays by 12-step groups.
The Courier - November 2020
Safe Space
with Jesus!
Concordia’s
worship in Covid days
shows the
checkerboard!
Thanks to all for
registering before
worship and taking
seats in the
pattern.
Guests tell us
they feel very safe
and cared for at
Concordia’s time-
shortened worship!
As attendance
continues to rise we
add more worship
services. That way
we won’t crowd our
20 half-pews used,
our less than 25% use
of capacity.
Every week’s
services grow with the
same Scripture and
sermon. But the
worship differs.
Our evening
services, on both
Wednesday and
Saturday, sing only
two hymns. Two
stanzas open, two
close. The rest of the
worship is spoken.
Sunday morn
early worship sings
two praise songs, as
offered with our band.
Sunday morn
middle service will be
just like the hymn
services (Wednesday
and Saturday eve).
Sunday late
worship will not sing
hymns, but parts of
the classic liturgy.
Only this service uses
the pew’s hymnal.
All our other
worship services are
“touch free,” with all
God’s good Words
projected to the
screen. Hear ye!
The Courier - November 2020
SURE Call to Action! Or, “I urge you to meet with SURE leaders
before the January 13th public hearing on the
Concordia with 20-some other Sarasota
congregations is SURE - Sarasota United for matter of affordable housing requirements; a
Responsibility and Equity. We powerfully hold member of our staff will be reaching out to set up
systems accountable in the community to a Godly a meeting in the near future.”
standard of justice. For over two decades, SURE Also, feel free to reach out to the SURE
has been a definitive ministry crossing lines of office if you would like any help identifying who
faith, denomination, age, race, geography, and your commissioner is, or if you have any questions
income. Members of SURE congregations work regarding this call to action.
hard to build relationships in their congregations Sarasota County
and their communities, discuss their concerns for Commissioner District
the city and county, research solutions to serious Representatives:
problems they select, present them to the proper District 1: Michael
officials and work with them to make “sure” our Moran: mmoran@scgov.net
community is a just one. District 2: Christian
Ziegler: cziegler@scgov.net
Our Community Needs Your Help! District 3: Nancy Detert:
The Affordable Housing Crisis ndetert@scgov.net
42% of all Sarasota County Households are District 4: Alan Maio: amaio@scgov.net
dealing with an unaffordable living situation. District 5: Charls Hines: chines@scgov.net
9 out of 10 top-growing jobs don’t pay Sarasota County Commission: (941) 861-5000
enough for someone to pay for the average rent of
a one-bedroom apartment in the area. Recap SURE Community Problems Assembly:
$1,000 per month rent is considered Nearly 250 network members from
affordable for a family of four making $42,000 per across Sarasota joined together for the assembly
year. There is a critical lack of rentals in this price on Monday, October 5. If every person who
range, and most of the ones that do exist are attended brings 3 people with them to the 2021
under 750 square feet in total area. Nehemiah Action we may have 1,000 people
Sarasota County Commission recently voted there!
to remove affordable housing requirements on SURE leaders voted to continue working to
new developments, despite the worsening of the solve the affordable housing crisis in the City and
affordable housing crisis with the Covid-19 County of Sarasota, as well as to move forward
pandemic (Commissioner Moran was not present with plans to implement an adult civil citation
for the vote, and Commissioner Detert was the program, to which State Attorney Ed Brodsky has
one dissenting vote, stating that she thought the publicly committed to work with SURE to design
plan needed work). The City of Sarasota has not and implement. Candidate for State Attorney,
included any additional funding in their 2020-21 Betsy Young, also joined for the meeting, and we
budget for housing that would be affordable for have offered to meet with her in the near future to
families, including many of our essential workers. discuss civil citation further.
SURE passed a slate of Executive Officers
What You Can Do who will lead the organization and our community
Write a letter or email to your county in building power so that we can continue to win
commissioner. Some potential bullet points you solutions to some of the most pressing problems in
might include: Sarasota. They are:
“I am disappointed that the county Co-Chairs: Reverend Wayne Farrell, St.
commission recently voted to remove affordable Boniface Episcopal Church; Bishop Kenneth Ellis,
housing requirements on new developments.” Koinonia Life Impact Church
Share a personal statement. For example: Vice-Chair: Valerie Reeves, New Bethel
“I have personally experienced the lack of Missionary Baptist Church
affordable housing when my son had to move out Treasurer: Tim Kelly, 12 Springs Church
of the area after graduating from college, because Recording Secretary: Nancy Taylor, Faith
of a lack of affordable options for young people in Lutheran Church
Sarasota.” At-Large Members: Reverend Ashley
“A budget is a moral document, and policy Nicolls, St. Paul Lutheran Church; James Brown,
decisions demonstrate the priorities of a Bethlehem Bible Church
community. I expect leadership on your part to
make sure that the county commission does the Save the Dates!
right thing, and prioritizes creating affordable Justice Ministry Rally: Monday, March 8
housing for essential workers, families, and at 6 p.m. The location or virtual platform to be
individuals making less than 60% of the Area determined.
Median Income, or $42,000 per year for a family Nehemiah Action Assembly: Monday,
of four.” March 29 at 6:30 p.m. The location or virtual
platform to be determined.
The Courier - November 2020
Worship’s Scripture Readings
October 28-November 1 - All Saints
Revelation 7:9-14
Hebrews 12:1-3
Matthew 5:1-12
November 4-8 - Pentecost 23
Isaiah 52:1-6
1 Thessalonians 4:13-18
Matthew 25:1-13
November 11-15 - Pentecost 24
Daniel 7:9-10
1 Thessalonians 5:1-11
Matthew 25:31-46
November 18-22 -
Last Sunday of the Church Year
2020 Attendance - Giving Overview Isaiah 51:4-6
2015, 52 weeks: 183 avg. att. (9,506), down 4% Jude 17-25
$263,568, up 0.5% Matthew 24:36-44
2016, 52 weeks: 189 avg. att. (9,807), up 3%. November 25-29 - Advent 1
$291,041, up 10%. Isaiah 63:16b,17; 64:1-8
2017, 52 weeks: 176 avg. att. (9,129), down 7%. 1 Corinthians 1:3-9
$307,932, up 6%. Mark 11:1–10
2018, 52 weeks: 182 avg. att. (9,464), up 4%.
$323,795, up 5%.
2019 52 weeks: 177 avg. att. (9,216), down 3%.
$320,245, down 1%.
2019, first 39 weeks: 174 avg. att. (6,797 total)
$231,972 tithes and offerings.
2020, 39 weeks:100 avg. att. (3,909) down 42%.
$241,740, up 4%.
YouTube views at ConcordiaSarasota.org:
totals March 308, April 607, May 338, June
141, July 102, August 92, Sept. 55, Oct. 4-
14, 11-14, 18-11. 2020 total 1,683.
Pew Limited attendance: (January to 15th
March pre-Covid total 2,523,) April 0, May
143, June 288, July 296, August 353,
September 309, October Sat.3-23, Sun.4.9a-
23, Sun.4.10:30a-21; Wed.7-11, Sat.10-23,
S.11.9a-20, S.11.10:30a-19; W.14-11, Sat.17-
23, S.18.9a-25, S.18.10:30a-23; W.21-12,
Sat.24-21, S.25.8:30a-13, S.25.9:30a-14,
S.25.11a-25; (so far October-307) Total:
1,696
2020 Dedicated Funds (gifts to Sept. 30)
New Church Worker Fund $1,500
Missionary Lawson (Russia) $1,670*
Missionary Naumann (Sri Lanka / India) $4,794*
Haiti Mission Fund $1,167
*includes $1,000 from Concordia FoundationThe Courier - November 2020
Concordia Council Minutes - Tuesday, October 13 2020
Members in Attendance: VP-Norma Roembke, Finance-Walt Naughton, Treasurer Phyllis Kirtley, Secretary-Wayne Ulbrich,
Education-Nancy Frayer, Fellowship-Gloria Bruggeman, Outreach-Margo Arehart, Worship-Alice Williams, and Pastor Stephen
Gaulke. (Constitutional Quorum) via Zoom
Members not present: President-Paul Mowery, Service-Cathy White, Properties Bob White. Guest(s): Euder Paul, Deaconess
Andra Gates
The meeting was called to order at 6:00 P.M.
Opening Devotion: Alice Williams read Philippians 3:12-21 (GW)
President’s Report: Paul Mowery reported the following:
I am happy to learn that giving has equaled or exceeded last year. Our congregation is so caring and generous.
Kudos to Pastor Stephen and the Elders for implementing an alternative to pre-COVID worship. Dawn and I find the services very
helpful. The new worships are inspirational. In our recent travels we’ve noticed that many churches have no in-person services,
only on-line. Concordia’s ability to continue in-person services is amazing and speaks to the creativity and determination of the
entire congregation.
The note in the Courier from Pastor Stephen about the Good Samaritan Fund is more important than ever. We have friends who
have lost part or all of their income due to COVID related lay-offs. Perhaps there are other ways we can spread the word about
this program.
The Courier Outreach note by Margo Arehart is also very timely. Food insecurity is increasing. We need to develop additional ways
for our congregation to address this in Sarasota.
Vice President’s Report: Norma Roembke had nothing to report.
Secretary: Wayne Ulbrich presented church council minutes from August 11th for approval. The minutes were approved by the
council.
Financial Secretary: Walt Naughton compared 2020’s first 30 weeks to 2019: attendance down 43%, offerings up 2%.
Treasurer: Phyllis Kirtley presented current dedicated accounts and income/expense report. Expenses are down. The church
buildings’ $36,301 stucco repair and exterior painting is paid for, thanks especially to a special gift and a Concordia Foundation
grant (near $12,000). We have received new funds for projects approved by the Dec. 2019 Voters to celebrate Concordia’s 75th
anniversary: 1) refurbish the narthex with ADA bathroom and welcome area, and then consider 2) sanctuary carpet, and 3)
window replacement. The federal Payroll Protection funds, all spent, will not need to be repaid. We have a new economic injury
disaster fund.
Worship Report: Alice Williams reported positive feedback on our current services. Thanks to Pastor for all his hard work on
providing the Wednesday, Saturday, Sunday church services. On Reformation Sunday, October 25, we will launch a 3rd Sunday
church service. Concordia’s AM 1090 radio is broadcasting services across our parking lot.
Education Report: Nancy Frayer had nothing to report at this time.
Outreach Report: Margo Arehart reported she is speaking with All Faiths’ Food Bank. They had invited Concordia to host a food
pantry and/or drive-through food distribution(s). Concordia continues working with S.U.R.E., now focused on Sarasota’s need for
affordable housing.
Fellowship Report: Gloria Bruggeman reported she worked with Rose Reese to thoroughly clean the kitchen. Through our point
person, we will work with the preschool and 12-Step groups to maintain cleanliness.
Service Report: No Report.
Properties: No Report.
Leadership Report: Pastor Stephen reported plans for new internet cable being run from our Willer Hall router over to the church
balcony’s camera to begin live streaming of church services. We’ve changed phone service from Frontier to Comcast. Council
directed Pastor’s book budget to spend $100 for Euder Paul’s seminary books. Alice Williams was elected as Concordia’s lay
delegate to the LCMS’ Sarasota Circuit Forum on Oct. 20. Pastor Stephen is one of the nominees to serve as Circuit Visitor
among our 13 sister congregations.
Old Business: None.
New Business: Norma Roembke will be working on getting the Treasurer, Financial, and Secretary positions filled for 2021. Those
leaders’ terms have expired.
Council plans to hold a brief congregational meeting after each worship service Dec. 2, 5 and 6 so that all have a voice and vote
regarding Concordia’s 2021 budget and council elections. Copies of the proposals should be available after worship services two
weeks prior.
The meeting adjourned at 7:15 P.M. Norma Roembke closed meeting with the Lord’s Prayer.
Next Council meeting scheduled for November 10th at 6:00 P.M.
Respectfully submitted, Wayne Ulbrich, SecretaryThe Concordia Courier
Concordia Lutheran Church Mission Statement
The mission of Concordia is to share Jesus’ harmony (“concordia”) with the
heart of Sarasota. Jesus comes to us in worship, giving to us
His Good News for sharing, and His love for caring!
Jesus comes to us
in worship (Jesus is our harmony!),
giving to us His Good News (His Word for us, education)
for sharing (His Word for all, outreach),
and His love (His deeds among us, fellowship)
for caring (His deeds for others, service).
Editor’s Notes…
Concordia Lutheran Church
2020 Church Officers
The deadline to submit articles for the
President ....................... Paul Mowery ......... 404-358-4124
December 2020 issue of “The Courier” is November
11. You may mail information to the church office, fax Vice-President ............... Norma Roembke ......... 966-8113
to 365-0845, or e-mail “concordia5@juno.com”. Please Treasurer ....................... Phyllis Kirtley ............... 266-8662
mark "For The Courier" on your news, along with your
Secretary ....................... Wayne Ulbrich ...... 815-600-4815
name. Thanks for your cooperation!
“The Courier” is published every month, with one Financial Secretary ........ Walt Naughton ............. 924-4201
July/August ISSUE. The purpose is to share with the
members of Concordia Lutheran Church, friends and 2020 Board Chairpersons
the community Jesus’ work among us. He brings Worship ......................... Alice Williams .............. 957-1090
harmony to the heart of Sarasota! We welcome your Education....................... Nancy Frayer ............... 953-3752
suggestions and contributions.
Outreach ........................ Margo Arehart....... 419-810-0853
Fellowship...................... Gloria Bruggeman ....... 924-7336
U.S. POST OFFICE I.D. STATEMENT Service........................... Cathy White ................. 379-2243
Title: “THE COURIER” Properties ...................... Bob White .................... 379-2243
Issue Date: NOVEMBER 2020
Statement of
Frequency: MONTHLY
Authorized Origin: CONCORDIA LUTHERAN
CHURCH
2185 WOOD STREET
SARASOTA, FL 34237-7915
Issue Number: 11-20The Concordia Courier
Non-Profit Org.
Concordia Lutheran Church, LCMS U.S. Postage
2185 Wood Street • Sarasota, FL 34237-7915 Paid
———————————— Manasota,
Return Service Request Florida
Permit No. 1230
The Concordia Courier
November 2020
Worship Schedule Church Staff Concordia Lutheran
Church, LC-MS
Worship Services Rescheduled Rev. Stephen Gaulke, M.Div., S.T.M……Pastor
Dcs. Andra Gates………..Seasonal Deaconess 2185 Wood Street
Worship changes weekly! Lei Ann Ahl ....... Parish Secretary / Bookkeeper
Evenings on Wednesdays and Saturdays, Sarasota, FL 34237-7915
Johnora L. Hildebrand ................ Music Director Ph: (941)365-0844 Fax: (941)365-0845
and multiple worship services Dawn Brown ...................... Praise Band Leader
on Sunday mornings. E-Mail: “concordia5@juno.com”
Nancy Frayer .................... Youth Group Leader Website: www.ConcordiaSarasota.org
Register at ConcordiaSarasota.org Karen Korzecki ........................ Sunday Nursery Facebook: search Concordia Sarasota
Holy Communion Office Hours:
The Lord’s Supper is celebrated 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. (Monday-Friday)
at every weekend’s worship service.
Jesus promises, “This bread is My body.
Drink, this wine is My blood for your
forgiveness.” In worship Jesus serves!
Concordia:
“Jesus’ Harmony for
the Heart of Sarasota”You can also read
