May 2021 Emmanuel Lutheran Church
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Emmanuel Lutheran Church
One Church Multiple Communities
May 2021
Mooring Line Drive Campus
777 Mooring Line Dr.
Naples, FL 34102
239-261-0894
Sunday Services during the pandemic
In-person services:
9:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. - Traditional Service in Sanctuary
10:00 a.m. - Contemporary Alive Service in the Family Life Center
11:30 a.m. - Bilingual Service in the Family Life Center
9:00 a.m., 10:00 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. will be livestreamed as well.
www.naplesemmanuel.org (Check out the “Weekly Schedule” on our Home Page)
10:00 a.m. - Drive-In Service at Emmanuel Park
2770 Oil Well Road, Naples, FL 34120
Email: elc@naplesemmanuel.org
Our Mission:
A Christ-centered community where God’s Spirit guides our lives as we worship, learn, love, share and serve.
Staff and Church Council
Our Staff:
Rev. Steven E Wigdahl, Senior Pastor - pastorsteve@naplesemmanuel.org
Rev. Dr. Rick Bliese, Associate Pastor - pastorrick@naplesemmanuel.org
Rev. José Lebrón, Associate Pastor for Mission Development - pastorjose@naplesemmanuel.org
Rev. William Kittinger, Associate Pastor for Mission Development - pastorwill@naplesemmanuel.org
Karole Langset, Resident Pastor - Karole@naplesemmanuel.org
Lois Sorensen, Resident Pastor - Lois@naplesemmanuel.org
Jim Cooper, ELCA Deacon, Youth & Family - jim@naplesemmanuel.org
Frine Donadelli, Administrative Assistant at Pebblebrooke - frine@naplesemmanuel.org
Gina Fidler, Office Manager - gina@naplesemmanuel.org
Joyce Finlay, ELCA Deacon, Music & Worship; organist - joyce@naplesemmanuel.org
Carol Hartman, Parish Nurse - carol@naplesemmanuel.org
Marcia Jaquith, Bookkeeper - marcia@naplesemmanuel.org
Nieves Lebrón, Children’s Ministry Specialist - nieves@naplesemmanuel.org
Dee Schleutker, ELCA Deacon, Service & Outreach - dee@naplesemmanuel.org
Theresa Shaw, Executive Director - theresa@naplesemmanuel.org
Vivian Shea, Chief Operations Officer - vivian@naplesemmanuel.org
Alex Tovar, Maintenance Manager - JABCleaning3@aol.com
Jennifer Ziegelmaier, Publication Coordinator - jennifer@naplesemmanuel.org
Church Council:
The Church Council is made up of nine dedicated people who act on behalf of the church membership. According to Emmanuel
Lutheran’s Constitution, “The Congregation Council shall have general oversight of the life and activities of this congregation,
and in particular its worship life, to the end that everything be done in accordance with the Word of God and the faith and
practice of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.”
Please do not hesitate to contact a council member if you have any questions or concerns. They are here to involve all mem-
bers of the congregation in worship, learning, witness, service, and support. If you would like to communicate with the mem-
bers of the Emmanuel Church Council, you will find their names and e-mail addresses below:
Here is your Council for 2020-2021:
Executive Board:
Tom Jackson (President) - tom@tomjacksonresources.com
Sylvia Boynton (Vice-President) - sboynton@coe.ufl.edu
Dennis Reustle (Treasurer) - dreustle@gmail.com
Carlos Dominguez (Secretary) - joshuaandjacobsmom@yahoo.com
The other board members are:
Ann Berlam - annberlam@gmail.com
Steve Esala - steve.esala@thrivent.com
Jeff Heier - jlnell@comcast.net
Zetty Rivera - zettyrivera@gmail.com
Kaitlyn Ziegelmaier - ziegelmaierkaitlyn@gmail.com
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE COUNCIL MEETING IN APRIL:
1. Serving Others Ministry Team created a website that includes a strolling photo banner with several non-profit part-
ners. There also is a hyperlink back to Emmanuel Lutheran Church site.
Church Council approved a sabbatical for Pastor Steve. He will be gone in June, July and August.
2. Church Council decided to remain with the 33% capacity instead of going to 50% in May. They will review the COVID
numbers in Florida and make a decision at their next meeting.
3. The Stewardship committee created a post card which will be sent out this month to thank everyone for their pledge.
4. We just brought on a part-time independent contractor to do the video editing which the Resident Pastors have been
doing.
June Newsletter deadline is May 20th.
Please e-mail Jennifer, jennifer@naplesemmanuel.org, with any information by this date. 2
Upcoming Events
New Members’ Orientation ZOOM Meeting
Thursday, May 6th at 6:30 PM
Are you interested in membership at Emmanuel Lutheran Church? We would love to have you be-
come more engaged with the mission and ministry of Emmanuel. Emmanuel is ONE CHURCH, but
FOUR COMMUNITIES. Come join us for this orientation session where you will be introduced to all the
activities at Emmanuel so that you can discover where and how you can best fit in.
Let us know your interest so that we can send you the ZOOM link and an invitation to this session
where you will meet the Emmanuel staff and hear about what’s happening at Emmanuel.
See you on May 6th at 6:30 PM.
COVID-19 Vaccines
NEW VACCINE LOCATION
Naples Church
10910 Immokalee Road
Naples, FL 34120
Vaccine date: Thursday, May 6, 2021
Time: TBD
Vaccine: Pfizer
Age: 18 & older
For more information
Call Gina at 239-261-8805 or
Email: elcvaccine@naplesemmanuel.org
Walk-ins will be welcome
3
A Message from Pastor Steve
So much has happened at Emmanuel during this past year, despite the pandemic. The
loss of personal connections with the inability to gather in public settings created a devas-
tating feeling for all. Pastoral care was limited to phone conversations due to restrictions
of access from local hospitals and care centers. However, through it all countless opportu-
nities of exploring new avenues of ministry developed. For this we give thanks, and I per-
sonally want to express my deep gratitude to the staff of Emmanuel, and all our volun-
teers, for stepping up to meet the challenge!
Even though it was not the preferred way to do ministry, we discovered some blessings
along the way. For instance, we were able to enhance our on-line “live-streaming” to minister within Emmanuel’s households
and stay in touch with seasonal members, realizing that the overall connections increased as a result. Educational opportu-
nities were all converted to on-line courses, and Bible studies for instance, were available for people to view at their conven-
ience.
Emmanuel Park on Oil Well Road became a community center for Meals of Hope, becoming the largest distribution center in
Collier County. In early May, the Park will become a second location to make vaccinations for COVID available.
There are stories of lives being touched all over the place, and here is an invitation to you. If you have a story to share, pass it
on to one of our staff so the word can get out. We would love to hear how THE FACES OF EMMANUEL make Emmanuel such
a special place touching the lives of many in southwest Florida and beyond.
In the meantime, the Book of Hebrews reminds us in chapter 10:
23
Let us hold fast to the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who has promised is faithful. 24And let us consider
how to provoke one another to love and good deeds, 25not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encourag-
ing one another, and all the more as you see the Day approaching.
We all look forward to the time when we will again have complete freedom to “meet together” face to face! Nonetheless, we
have been an encouraging place in difficult times. And yes, we boldly celebrate the faithfulness of God!
On a personal note, I want to thank the Church Council for a forthcoming sabbatical this summer, June through August, for a
time of refreshment and renewal. It would not have been possible without the wonderful staff and ministry volunteers that
will continue to uphold our ministry. Maria and I are looking forward to this time together.
Finally, a deep word of thanks for our Resident Pastors, Lois Sorensen and Karole Langset. They have left a permanent impact
on our lives, bringing needed gifts during the challenges we faced. We will hold them in our prayers as God unfolds the new
stage to their lives and ministry.
4
A Message from Pastor Rick
Education at Emmanuel in May - Check out the Changes this Month
Our calendar of educational events has changed for this Month. So, check out this calendar for your fa-
vorite educational events. These educational events are a wonderful way to strengthen your faith. That
is our prayer for you; that you grow in the Lord as you take these classes.
Sundays
- The Sunday Forum
- The Sunday Matinee [The Chosen]
Mondays
- Worship Matters
Tuesdays
- TOT (Take Out Tuesday devotions from staff)
Wednesdays
- Grief Group via ZOOM every second week (check the e-blasts)
Thursdays
- Lectionary Bible Study
- Bonus Bible Study (videos)
- Happy Hour (discussion of this week’s episode of The Chosen)
Fridays & Saturdays Free
Stewardship 2021
Faces of Emmanuel,
Together we can make this another successful financial year. We are
$300,000 away from our goal.
Christian Stewardship regards our obligation as Christians to manage and
utilize intelligently the gifts that God has given. We are not only responsible
for the financial blessings provided by God but also the spiritual gifts that
are given through the Holy Spirit. This is where we believe the concepts of
biblical stewardship, Faith, Work and Economics intercepts. Therefore, we want to remain on track for all that we promised to
deliver through our Christian duty of ownership, responsibility, and accountability.
You can help us by letting us know your intentions for the year. Remember to send in your intention cards. If you choose not to
send in an intention card, we appreciate your continued financial support given through weekly offerings.
According to scripture, God created Earth for mankind, and we are now Stewards of His creation. This means it is our responsi-
bility to look after and take care of this world. We should accept this responsibility and appreciate God’s gift of creation for be-
ing our home.
Our stewardship of creation involves the caretaking of our families and communities. Being a good steward in this world is one
way of expressing our love for God and our gratitude to him.
May God bless each of you as we continue our journey to support each other and our neighbors, through our time, talents, and
treasures.
5
Finance
FINANCIAL UPDATE (as of March 31, 2021)
TOTAL INCOME FROM ALL Budget Year to Date Actual Year to Date
SOURCES $528,320 $544,006
Budget Year to Date Actual Year to Date
TOTAL OVERALL EXPENSES
$507,070 $422,238
March 2020 March 2021
AVERAGE ATTENDANCE
652 841
(A more detailed Treasurer’s Report can be found in our weekly eBlast.)
Want to help make a difference while you shop in the Amazon app,
at no extra cost to you? Simply follow the instructions below to se-
lect "Emmanuel Evangelical Lutheran Church" as your charity and
activate AmazonSmile in the app. They'll donate a portion of your
eligible mobile app purchases to us.
How it works:
1. Open the Amazon app on your phone
2. Select the main menu (=) & tap on "AmazonSmile" within Programs & Features
3. Select "Emmanuel Evangelical Lutheran Church" as your charity
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to activate AmazonSmile in the mobile app
Thanks for supporting Emmanuel Evangelical Lutheran Church.
Thank you to those of you who do use Amazonsmile. Every little bit helps. To date we have received $129.95 during the
first quarter of 2021 and a total of $1,289.64 from Amazonsmile.
Stephen Ministry
CHRIST CARING FOR PEOPLE THROUGH PEOPLE
STEPHEN MINISTRY MOMENT Love one another as I have loved. You In
John15:12, Jesus says “This is my commandment , that you love one
another as I have loved you.” Loving and caring for one another is not
just the Pastor’s job - - it’s something Jesus calls us all to do! Stephen
Ministers are fellow members who are trained to become Christian
Caregivers to members who are suffering one or more of life’s difficul-
ties. If you or someone you know can benefit by having a Stephen Min-
ister walk confidentially with you as you gain the healing power of Christ’s love please call Carol Hartman at church 239-261-
0894.
MEET STEPHEN MINISTER PATRICK STEFFY
Patrick Steffy is a Naples resident since 2006 and became a Stephen Minister in the Class of 2020
with commissioning delayed by the Covid-19 pandemic. He was previously married to Barbara
and they are the parents of son, Sean. He comes from a large family, having six siblings. Patrick
has lived in several locations over the years including Georgia, Colorado, North
Carolina and most recently in SE Michigan. In September 2006 Patrick moved to Naples full-time
following 26 years in SE Michigan. He joined Emmanuel in 2017.
Patrick retired from the Allied Health Care Field after more than 30 years as his primary occupa-
tion. His favorite activities include bicycling, hiking, swimming and making music. In fact he plays
in the Alive Band regularly. He also enjoys serving as a volunteer at the central office of Alcohol-
ics Anonymous.
As to what was Patrick’s motivation to become a Stephen Minister he responded that when he asked God, “What can I do?”
one of the answers was, “Listen for my voice in others”. Patrick is eager to be assigned his first Care Receiver and begin his
Christian Caregiving ministry, knowing that God will be there with him. He expects his greatest personal reward will be an
enhanced relationship with God and the opportunity through Stephen Ministry to express his gratitude to God for his relation-
ship with him.
6
Parish Nurse
Carol Calling:
This month let’s start with Blue Zone Power 9 principle PURPOSE. This principle encourages us to wake up with
purpose each day and add up to 7 years to our lives. Think about joining a Blue Zone Power workshop …want
to know more? Just go on line and look up Blue Zone at southwestflorida.bluezonesproject.com and see what
is being currently being offered. Or call Gina at the church office 261-0894 and she will give you the contact
information.
And along those lines, let’s talk about some information from my Nutrition Action Health letter regarding 10 superstar foods
for better health. 1. Sweet Potatoes which are loaded with carotenoids and potassium and fiber 2. Mangoes which supply
Vitamin C and A plus potassium and fiber 3. Plain Greek yogurt – fat free and unsweetened – this thick and creamy yogurt is
loaded with protein 4. Broccoli – loaded with carotenoids and vitamin K and folate 5.Wild salmon - rich in Omega -3 fatty
acids which reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke 6. Oatmeal – great wholegrain breakfast either old-fashioned or steel
cut is packed with fiber 7. Garbanzo beans are rich in protein, fiber, folate, iron, magnesium and zinc 8. Watermelon offers
Vitamin A and C, potassium and lycopene 9. Butternut squash - again Vitamin A,C and fiber 10.Leafy Greens – so much
goodness for us with Vitamin A, C, K, folate, potassium, magnesium, calcium, iron and fiber. I encourage you to think about
adding these powerful superfoods to your diet. Here’s to your healthy eating!!
Even though we may be nearing the end of this terrible pandemic, let’s not let up now with what we know works to keep us
safe. 1. Face masks if worn properly in public 2. Hand sanitizers – if we use one which is at least 60%ethanol. 3. Air Purifi-
ers. HEPA filters are effective against virus sized microbes and can filter out lung irritating allergens 4. Social distancing and
opening your windows to ensure air is moving around your rooms
This month of May is Melanoma and Skin Cancer, Brain Cancer and Bladder Cancer Awareness Month.
The hospitals no longer notify us of your admission. If you have a planned hospital admission and would like a
visit from our pastoral staff, please let us know ahead of time. If you have an unexpected hospital admission,
please ask a family member or friend to contact the church office. We would be happy to visit with you.
Thank you. Parish Nurse Carol Hartman at 239-261-0894 or carol@naplesemmanuel.org
If you would like to have a prayer added to the prayer chain, please contact Joyce O’Neill. You may contact
Joyce at 239-566-3373 or email her at KSOnaples@comcast.net. Send requests to Joyce O’Neill at
ksonaples2@gmail.com
Grieving Group : Jesus Wept
In the Gospel, according to John, Jesus wept (11:35). He wept over the death of Lazarus, and in
seeing the grief of Lazarus’ sisters and all who mourned him. Many of us are grieving today.
Some of our loved ones have died. Some of us have lost jobs and are mourning our way of life
before COVID. Some of us are facing difficulties in our health, and some of us are being separat-
ed from our loved ones. There are many reasons we grieve today and many reasons we, like Je-
sus, weep. Grief can be isolating but we do not have to go through these losses alone. In Christ, we are a family. A family that
weeps and supports each other in difficult times.
Emmanuel Lutheran Church has a grief group. This group is for all who mourn, need to lament, or are suffering from loneliness.
We will listen to each other and we will pray with each other. “Grief group” meets on Zoom at 1:00 pm on the first and third
Wednesday of every month. Parish Nurse Carol Hartman and Resident Pastor Karole Langset lead the group. They can answer
any questions you have about the group.
To Join Grief Zoom Meeting (1st and 3rd Wednesday, 1 p.m.):
Copy and paste:
Meeting ID:
Password: If you have any questions or concerns in
You can join by phone without video, for that you will need the meeting number regards to the Grief Group call Carol
and password (above) when you dial-in to one of these numbers: Hartman at 239-261-0894 or email her at
+1 301 715 8592 (Germantown), +1 312 626 6799 (Chicago), +1 646 558 8656 US Carol@naplesemmanuel.org
(New York), +1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma), +1 346 248 7799 (Houston), or +1 669
900 6833 US (San Jose). 7
Serving Others Ministry
Blessing Bags for the Homeless
Matthew 25:35 “For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a
stranger and you invited me in.”
What should you do when you see a homeless person standing along the road asking for help/food/money? Cash is not the
best answer.
A few suggestions:
Options Pros Cons
Give him/her a “Call Mitch” card – Provides someone they can call Only works if you are in Colli-
see below. for help. er County FL.
Provides no food.
Give him/her a “Call Mitch” card + a Provides someone they can call Same as above +
small gift card to an economical res- for help. Provides food only if the per-
taurant (McDonalds, Burger King, Ta- Provides them with one or son can get to that restau-
co Bell, etc. Maybe $10 or $15). more hot meals from the res- rant.
taurant.
Give him/her a “Call Mitch” card + a Provides someone they can call Same as above +
small gift card to an economical res- for help. Requires you to pre-package
taurant + various non-perishable food Provides them with one or the bags and carry them in
items in a plastic bag. more hot meals from the res- your car within reach of the
taurant. driver or a passenger.
Provides them with multiple
additional meals and personal
care items.
What to include in a gallon sized zip lock bag?
Include Do Not include
Call Mitch card (if in Collier County FL) Cash
Gift card to restaurant (optional) Publix gift card (could be used for liquor)
Protein items – canned chicken, tuna packets, beef jerky Heavy or large items
Snack items – crackers, protein bars, granola bars, peanuts Items that would perish in heat
Water - small bottle or refillable bottle
Personal items - disposable masks, toothbrush, toothpaste,
hand wipes, soap, sunglasses, first aid kit
Other items - small paperback Bible or book, rain poncho
Contact anyone on Emmanuel’s Serving Others Ministry Team to obtain some “Call Mitch”
cards or check with Gina Fidler in the office as she will have a supply.
Example of items to include in the Blessings Bag.
Please consider safety first before you stop to hand anything to someone along the road or at a highway exit.
The Blessing Bags are used by Lynn Lewis, one of our Serving Others Ministry Team members, who saw the idea on Facebook
(author unknown). If you have any questions or would like to assist Lynn with this wonderful idea, please contact her at
LyLewisNJ@gmail.com.
8
Serving Others Ministry
Serving Others Ministy is one of our ministries that focus on our congregation helping in the community., whether it is
through financial donations or volunteering at our partner organizations. If you would like more information about how you
can help with the Serving Others Ministry, please contact the chair, Jan Gazdic by email at jhgazdic@comcast.net.
Some of our community outreach organizations are The Good Samaritan Fund, Food for the Needy, Grace Place, Habitat for
Humanity, Casseroles for St. Matthews, Panera Bread Pick-up, Harry Chapin Food Bank, and Village of Hope Haiti.
Thank you to all who have recently prepared casseroles. We delivered a freezer full of cas-
seroles to St. Matthew's House last week!
Our Serving Others Ministry Team provides casseroles prepared by Church members to the St.
Matthew’s House Shelter for the benefit of those sheltered. This past year due to COVID our do-
nations have been down. Emmanuel used to donate between 25- 50 casseroles per month. Our
total donation last year was about 50. Please consider helping this outreach program as the
need is huge!
Gina Fidler is in the office Monday through Thursday from 9 am to 5 pm and has made herself available to distribute
the casserole pans, lids (and recipes if needed) and receive prepared casseroles to store in the freezer. This outreach is
still much needed and greatly appreciated by all of those housed in the shelter.
Please consider picking up a casserole container, or two, preparing one of the easy casserole dishes, and delivering the
cooked casserole back to Gina at the Church. We will also have some containers at our drive-in service to make it even
easier.
Volunteers Needed for Panera Bread Pick Up and Delivery to St. Matthew’s House
Panera Bread at Gateway Naples, across from Emmanuel Lutheran Church, donates leftover
bakery products to St. Matthew’s House and our volunteers are the couriers. Our designated
pick-up days are Sunday evenings and Friday evenings every week. Volunteers schedule dates
of their choice to pick up Sunday evenings right before 8 p.m. closing or the following Mon-
day morning right at 7:30 a.m. opening and deliver to St. Matthew’s House Food Warehouse
at 1224 Industrial Avenue (off Airport-Pulling Road) after 8 a.m. Monday. The Friday pickup
must be done on Friday before 8 p.m. closing and delivered to St. Matthew’s House Food Donations on Airport-Pulling Road
after 8 a.m. on Saturday. If you are interested and would like more information, please contact Jan Gazdic at (239) 595-0218
via voice or text, or email her at jhgazdic@comcast.net. We need your help!!
Your support makes dreams come true!
Emmanuel recently received a plaque thanking us from the
two families who were able to buy Habitat homes last year
due to the generosity of Emmanuel members. It will be
mounted in the narthex at Mooring Line Drive next to others from Habitat.
Just a reminder: There is currently a dollar for dollar match from Thrivent for all of your donations. The need in these tough
times is great. Can you help out? Make checks payable to Emmanuel and indicate Habitat-Thrivent. Or make donations di-
rectly to HabitatCollier.org or phone 239-775-0036.
9
Music and Worship
MUSIC AND WORSHIP NOTES
JOYCE FINLAY, ELCA DEACON FOR WORSHIP AND MUSIC
CHANGES
It is with mixed emotions that the Emmanuel Staff is saying goodbye to
Resident Pastors Karole Langset and Lois Sorensen.
In two short years these two fine women of God have become so special to us. Both R. Pastors Lois and Karole jumped right in
and were involved immediately. They were so interested in getting to know the staff and participated in every facet of Emman-
uel’s ministries. I was most fortunate to get to work closely with both of them.
In planning for Lenten and Advent services, R. Pastor Lois’s Lenten series about Prayer (Always and All Ways) was filled with
different and innovative ways to pray. And when Covid hit, Pastor Lois did not miss a beat. Everything was Livestreamed, and
the Lenten series continued with a large following online.
Resident Pastor Karole’s Blue Christmas services were held during Advent, and both years they were extremely meaningful.
These services were very helpful, not only to those who may have suffered some type of loss or depression, but
to everyone. This is a tradition that we hope to continue here at Emmanuel. One other area that both R. Pastors Lois and Ka-
role took a lead in was technology. I relied heavily on R. Pastor Lois for our Choir Zoom meetings (without Lois’s help, they
would have not happened).
R. Pastor Karole has been helping to edit videos and music for our worship services and educational programs. She does it so
easily and always with a smile (and so patient with some of us who are “slower” to understand some of the
new technology!). Gina and I jokingly told R. Pastor Karole that she might be nominated for a Grammy as producer of this
year’s Lenten services! Although we send them off with prayers for their upcoming ministries, we will always hold them in our
hearts.
There is an old adage that reads: “Change happens—adapt quickly.” Well, that may be true in many ways, but I feel it lacks a
very important element. “Change happens—appreciate and never forget the goodness, joy, laughter, and love that
was given you.” To (Almost) Pastors Lois and Karole: we love you, and we are so grateful that God gave you to enrich our lives
here at Emmanuel. As Paul wrote in I Corinthians: “I give thanks to my God always for you because of the grace
of God that has been given you in Christ Jesus, for in every way you have been enriched in him in speech and knowledge of
every kind.” (I Cor. 1: 4,5)
Soli Deo Gloria!
Youth and Family Ministry
Emmanuel’s Youth Scholarship Fund - Receiving Applications
Each year during the month of April we begin the process of accepting appli-
cations for Emmanuel’s Youth Scholarship Fund. The purpose of the fund is
to provide financial assistance to Emmanuel member young adults who are
pursuing higher education. Since the inception of the fund in 2009 more than
$54,700 has been awarded to 56 students.
Any youth member of Emmanuel Lutheran Church who is active in the
church, or has been active in the church, within the past three years and has
been accepted, or is presently enrolled at an accredited college, university,
seminary, vocational or other educational institution is eligible to apply for
this scholarship.
If you are interested in receiving a Youth Scholarship Fund Application, please contact Deacon Jim Cooper at the church 261-
0894, or by email: Jim@NaplesEmmanuel.org. Deadline for all applications is Wednesday May 7, 2021.
Over the past 12 years 54 youth scholarships have been awarded with disbursement of
funds totaling $54,700. These funds have helped and changed the lives of so many.
Please keep our high school graduates and college students in your prayers. If you would
like to contribute to the fund, please contact Jim Cooper at 239-261-0894.
10Youth and Family Ministry
Come Join us for Bible Camp!
June 14 - 18 (Monday - Friday)
9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Who Can Attend? Children who have finished Kindergarten through 5th grade.
Cost: $30
Children will need to bring their own lunches.
For more information contact: Nieves Lebron at Nieves@naplesemmanuel.org or
Gina Fidler at Gina@naplesemmanuel.org
2020 Family Retreat Group Photo
Or, go to this link: https://naplesemmanuel.org/bible-camp/
Emmanuel Lutheran Church
ALIVE ON FACEBOOK
Emmanuel’s contemporary worship service ALIVE is now broadcasting “live” every Sunday morning on the church’s Facebook
page, Emmanuel Lutheran Church Naples.
New people along with weekly regulars are joining us from all around Florida as well as other parts of the country.
Alive is a vibrant Lutheran contemporary Worship service that is committed to proclaiming the Love of Jesus Christ through
great music, dynamic liturgy and powerful preaching.
We invite you to come see for yourself every Sunday at 10:00 AM in the Family Life Center on campus, or join us on our Face-
book page.
You can help us grow this ministry by sharing the Alive service with your friends on Facebook.
11Emmanuel Community Church and Youth Ministry
For children ages 3 - 6 years old
led by Nieves Lebrón our Children's Ministry Specialist
During the sermon time children who attend the worship service with their
family at the Alive or ECC Services will be invited by Mrs. Nieves to come with
her to another room and /or the playground. During this time they will also
have their own short Bible lesson. The children will be returned to the Family
Life Center to rejoin their parents for communion.
Emmanuel Park Church
2770 Oil Well Road
www.naplesemmanuel.org/epc
epc@naplesemmanuel.org
Drive-In Worship: Sundays 10:00 a.m.
Emmanuel Community Park
The mobile food pantry partnership with Meals of Hope con-
tinues to expand! Meals of Hope provides the food and Em-
manuel recruits and manages the volunteers. This past week
we provided food for a week to 456 families, plus 2400 chil-
dren’s meals. Thank you to the 40 volunteers from Emmanuel
and our neighbors who came out and assisted!
This past week, a Sunday Forum episode was filmed with
Meals of Hope. Please look for it on our YouTube channel.
We estimate that since we began in August, we have together
distributed more than $1,000,000 of food to our neighbors in
need. Even though federal stimulus is helping, the number of
unemployed and underemployed in Collier is not dropping
significantly. As I write this, as season is coming to an end, and those with homes up North are either packed and gone or pre-
paring to depart. Food distribution is projected to continue to be essential until fall, at least.
Up until this time, volunteers have been managed by Deacon Dee, as part of her portfolio of responsibilities. As the number of
volunteers have increased, so has the time requirements.
Emmanuel Communities, Inc. applied for and was awarded a grant from the Community Foundation of Collier County to hire a
part time volunteer administrator.
Last month, Kristin Delfs joined the Emmanuel Communities and Emmanuel Academies team
on a part time basis as their new Administrative Coordinator. Kristin’s focus will be on com-
munications, relationship building and community partner collaboration.
With an in-depth background in team leadership, customer service and software support,
Kristin brings a myriad of valuable skill sets to the two organizations. As a past software busi-
ness analyst, she understands the importance of data collection, business management flow,
functionality and flexibility. Originally from Colorado, Kristin moved to Naples approximately
one year ago. Upon learning of the missions and community work of Emmanuel Academies
and Emmanuel Communities, the call to community service and serving others drew her out
of semi-retirement.
The Community Foundation grant will allow Kristin to spend one day a week assisting in the
volunteer management work with Deacon Dee. Kristin will be onsite for food distribution,
helping Pr. Will and Deacon Dee and supporting our extraordinary volunteer team.
Please stop by and say “Hello” to Kristin at the Park on Wednesdays or in Room 5 on Thursdays and Fridays. She is reachable at
906.330.0004 or Kristin@EmmanuelCommunities.org.
12Emmanuel Park Church
Emmanuel Park Community
One of our youth members, Michael Mario, brought his friends from Community School to help him volunteer out at the park. Thank you
for all your help.
Yanisel Flores green shirt, black cap. Community School group: Chase A. dark T-shirt, curly hair. Vincent C. pink T-shirt.
Michael Mario D’Angelo light blue T-shirt with Director of Meals of Hope, Steve Hopper.
13Emmanuel Communities
Plans for the Pavilion are Moving Forward!!!!
The mission of Emmanuel Communities is to foster the development of Emmanuel Community Park, both in
terms of its physical development as well as its place within the community including community partnerships.
Of course, the Park is home to the Emmanuel Park Community led by Pastor Will and Deacon Dee. Because of their skills and
the location and improvements to the site, the missional community of faith that they are building continues to grow!
In addition to weekly worship, community partnerships continue to grow with the Collier County Sheriff’s Office Youth Rela-
tions Deputies, The Mustard Seed Ranch for Troubled Youth, local girl scout troops, Child’s Path (for future early childhood
education on the site), Meals of Hope, and many more. See Pastor Will and Deacon Dee’s report for details on this past month
and upcoming plans.
We have received approval from the county of our revised Site Development Plan to accommodate the pavilion. A purchase
agreement has been signed with Texas Timbers Frames, a leading national
designer and builder of heavy timber structures. We are finalizing the design
now and preparing the files for engineering reviews. Engineering is especially
important given our hurricane force winds. Once we complete engineering,
the plans will be submitted to the county for the issuance of a building permit.
Our current pace and plan have us completing construction for a Labor Day
picnic. We will do all we can to hit these targets!
Emmanuel Communities is building a site that will serve the community for the coming 50 to 100 years! If you would like to be
a part of the future of this vision as it comes to fruition, please reach out to Howard at Emmanuel Communities at
239.206.3082 or at H.Isaacson@EmmanuelCommunities.org
14Emmanuel Academies
Emmanuel Academies Shouts “THANK YOU!!!!”
In place of the annual Celebration of Progress Gala, Emmanuel Academies launched an appeal in early
March to allow the addition of more future pastors to our Master of Divinity program, as well as provide
funding for our Faith, Vocation and Economics education series and other vital works. The appeal has been
and continues to be effective. We are thankful for the generosity demonstrated and all of the support provided!!!!
For those who have not yet responded to our appeal, we ask you to consider “who will teach your grandchildren about
Christ?” We know that there is a growing shortage of pastors, and the gap will continue to increase unless we, as a community
of faith, are successful at identifying and raising up new, skilled and well-formed pastors.
Your support can be the difference between a church that thrives and one that dies.
Our program is unique in the ELCA as it is affordable, accessible and highly relevant. The cost of delivering the program is 75%
less than that of traditional, campus-based seminary. Seminarians can stay and grow within their communities. Our future pas-
tors learn what is needed to Preach, Teach, Lead and Serve, especially as it relates to their own communities.
We have achieved much with limited capital and in a brief period:
+ 27 seminarians on three continents + Grants from leading national foundations
+ Leading Lutheran theologians as faculty + More than 16,000 views on our YouTube channel
+ ATS-accredited through Sioux Falls Seminary + Undergraduate partnerships with 3
+ Endorsed by Bishop Pedro Suarez Universities – Palm Beach Atlantic U,
+ 5 candidates in the Ordination process in FL Concordia U, and Sioux Falls Seminary
Your support is essential, as the church’s operating budget does not include Emmanuel Academies. You are also invited to
automate your contribution using the donation page on NaplesEmmanuel.org. If you prefer, we welcome planned gifts to as-
sure the future of this essential program and its pastors.
To those that have generously supported our work, THANK YOU! To those that are considering a gift to fund the formation of
pastors for the future of the church, we look forward to hearing from you and we also THANK YOU!
On the page following are the stories of two of our most recent students. A testimony of your investment in these lives bearing
GOOD FRUIT!
Please reach out to Howard Isaacson, CEO of Emmanuel Academies, with any questions, for more information or for specific
gifting language. His cell phone is 239.206.3082 and email is H.Isaacson@EmmanuelAcademies.org
Help Emmanuel Academies
A generous donor has offered to match the funds that come in to EA over the next month up to $50k to help with our fund-
raising effort that we started in March. Gifts of any and all sizes are absolutely appreciated and needed. A gift in May is
extra valuable because of this matching opportunity!
15Emmanuel Academies
EAs work in Rwanda!
Pastor John from Rwanda will be visiting us in Naples April 30th to May 3rd. He holds multiple graduate degrees and is a gift
to his communities. He runs a not for profit in Rwanda that engages local communities to work together to solve common
problems with permanent solutions. They have built schools, medical clinics and continue to do great work.
EA has been busy in Rwanda:
• We have 9 MDiv students in Rwanda who are working with us, the Luther House of Study and Sioux Falls Seminary.
• We are funding the building of a ceramic water filter factory based on the model of Potters for Peace and funded by the
Zimmer Family Foundation.
• We are assisting in the funding of the Oleander Nursery and Primary School in Masaka, Rwanda.
• We have indirectly assisted our friend, Pastor John, in raising funds to build a medical clinic in an underserved village.
• We have an excellent relationship with the Bishop of Rwanda and their national church's leadership team.
• We will have a team of three in Rwanda this summer for three weeks advancing our students and the water filter factory.
Howard Isaacson would love to share with you some of the details and its benefits for all who are interested in learning more.
Pots in kiln Kiln
Medical Clinic
All the work we are doing in Rwanda is funded by specially awarded grants, other than our equipping of their pastors.
Thus, donors can be assured that gifts made to Emmanuel Academies will be applied first and foremost to support our
Master of Divinity program, as it is vital for the future success of the Lutheran Church.
16Clubs
Most of our clubs have been suspended until further notice due to the pandemic. If you are interested in a particu-
lar club, you may contact the leaders of that group.
Lit and Latte Book Club
At this time they are trying to create a list of books to read and presenters for the upcoming year. If
you have any ideas, please contact Carol Hartman at Carol@naplesemmanuel.org.
Everyone in the community is invited to join our group. Please feel free to bring houseguests and
friends, as all are welcome.
WOMEN WITH WOMEN
The Women with Women group has postponed gatherings and meetings until further notice.
Any questions call Carol Duncan at 239-777-3213.
Mah Jongg meets on Fridays at 1:00 in the breezeway. Masks required. If you have any questions,
please call Carol Duncan at 239-777-3213.
Beading for Haiti Project Paperbead Jewelry
The beading group has postponed meeting until further notice. They are excited to get back together
once things get back to normal. They also look forward to having a Jewelry Sale.
Interested? Contact Carol Duncan at 239-777-3213
Check out our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/beadingforhaiti
Village of Hope Webpage www.villageofhopehaiti.org
Stitchers
The Stitchers have resumed meeting in the Family Life Center on Mondays at 9:00 a.m.
Call Jane Hauck, 605-366-4338, with any questions.
The Emmanuel Stitchers have made over 80 quilts since February 1st. They are running low on
cotton fabric. If you are cleaning out your “stash” and would like to donate your fabric to us, we
would be happy to receive it. It can be left at the church office with Gina.
17Deaths
Please keep the friends and family of the following in your hearts and prayers:
Dick McBride who passed away on April 19, 2021
Pat Doverspike who passed away on April 27, 2021
Emmanuel Lutheran Church
May Anniversaries
Member Date
Mr. & Mrs. Ben Chelini 05/01/1965
Mr. & Mrs. Don Brown 05/03/1963
Harry and Arlene Schell 05/03/1957
Mr. & Mrs. Edward Smith 05/07/1949
Mr. & Mrs. Ted Zieman 05/11/1968
Mr & Mrs Thomas Petruzelli 05/12/1996
Mr. & Mrs. Rob Headley 05/17/2014
Mike & Michelle Hanson 05/18/2002
Mr. & Mrs. William Rosevear 05/21/1983
Mr. & Mrs. Ed Guest 05/22/1965
Mr. & Mrs. Gerald Kimble 05/24/1992
Cheryl Marquardt 05/24/0000
Mr. & Mrs. Steven Murphy 05/25/2003
Ann Berlam 05/26/1984
Mr. & Mrs. Michael Elgin 05/26/1996
Mr. & Mrs. Robert Albrecht 05/26/1996
Rick & DeeAnn Fetterer 05/27/1989
Mark & Veronica Heckler 05/29/1979
Dick & Katheryn Cederstrom 05/29/2015
Mr. & Mrs. Dick Hynes 05/29/1964
Mr. & Mrs. Julian Hardy 05/30/1962
Mr. & Mrs. Charles Gass 05/31/1980
Mr. & Mrs. Gary Hall 05/31/0000
18Emmanuel Lutheran Church
May Baptisms
Member Date
Roger Gustavson 05/00
Carol-Ann Courtney 05/00
Mason Fetterer 05/00
Mark Fiebrink 05/00
Lori Frontz 05/00
Roger Gustavson 05/00
Norine Petruzelli 05/00
Karl Listoe 05/01
Jacob Nugent 05/01
Carl Theorin 05/01
David Rismiller 05/03
Zachary Fowell 05/05
Allen Mikkola 05/07
Jill Talarico 05/09
Gerald Kimble 05/17
Marianne Zarek 05/17
Anne-Lise Holm 05/18
Leah Frontz 05/19
Karen Carlson 05/20
Bradbury Anderson 05/22
Maria Sadler Aguila 05/22
Richard Cederstrom 05/24
Lindsey Fisher 05/24
Abigail Reid 05/24
Rolf Bjelland 05/25
19Emmanuel Lutheran Church
May Birthdays
Member Date Member Date
Ronald Solomon 05/01 Lana McBride 05/15
Chelsey Olson 05/02 Annette Palmer 05/15
Carolyn Reichert 05/02 Mason Fetterer 05/16
Dee Schwartz 05/02 Chloe Oesterreicher 05/16
Kerstin Beitzel 05/03
Jadiel Perdomo 05/17
Abigail Cooper 05/03
Rex Parrott 05/17
Herman Fisher, Jr. 05/03
Marilyn Martin 05/18
Johanna Fuellgraf 05/03
Connie Sharpe 05/18
Mario Hernandes 05/03
Patricia Day 05/05 Jennifer Ziegelmaier 05/18
John Fernandez 05/06 Beverly Haas 05/19
Samantha Manring 05/06 Harold Linnerud 05/19
Bobette Jean Morin 05/06 Lynn Wuesthoff 05/19
Isabella Sanchez 05/06 Karen Carlson 05/20
Theodore Ziemann 05/06 Joyce Finlay 05/20
Lauren DeHaan 05/07 George Stine 05/20
Blake T. Elmer 05/07 Sandy Zeno 05/20
Frances Maslowski 05/07 Germaine Comstock 05/21
Berthold Treiber 05/07
Vicki Evans 05/21
William Rosevear 05/08
Eric Svensson 05/21
Don Jorgensen 05/09
Marit Granskog 05/22
Barbara Linnerud 05/09
Aria Kroge 05/22
Carla Reustle 05/09
Nancy Dick 05/10 Caylie Tomé 05/22
Donna Clark 05/11 Alleen Tostrud 05/22
James Henninger 05/11 Jim Schleutker 05/24
Agatha Hill 05/11 David Selland 05/24
Patricia Schutte 05/11 Steven Wigdahl 05/24
Thomas W. Elmer 05/12 Ruby Johnson 05/25
Don Buske 05/13 Randall Klinck 05/25
John Leikhim 05/13 Frank Loney 05/25
Reyna Rodriguez 05/13 Alegra Vargas 05/25
Angela DeGonzalez 05/14 Phyllis Bernstein 05/26
Nelson Gonzalez 05/14 Lorraine Ann Wistrom 05/27
Charles Holmes 05/14 Cynthia Mjolsness 05/29
Patrick Mattes 05/14 Arthur Pearson 05/29
Sheila O'Brien 05/14 Caleb Kimble 05/30
Phillip Strohm 05/14 Myron Marlett 05/30
Virginia Carpenter 05/31
Carole Lusch 05/31
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