ST. MARK'S MESSENGER VOLUME 22 ISSUE 3 MARCH 2018 - St. Mark's Lutheran Church
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ST. MARK’S MESSENGER
VOLUME 22 ISSUE 3 • MARCH 2018
One of our points of emphasis is that we are all called to use our gifts to spread the Gospel, and this
call is for each and every member of St. Mark’s. We believe that while we are all different with
differing giftedness, we all are called. As we’ve talked about this, one bit of pushback I get is that
some people don’t feel qualified and are unsure about their ability to join in. If that’s you, I have good
news! You’re not alone. The Bible is full of stories about people who felt unqualified and unsuited to
respond to God’s call. Perhaps the most prominent is Gideon.
As we are introduced to Gideon in the book of Judges we find him hiding in a cave. The people were
being attacked by the Midianites, a fierce warring people who would come and steal all the Israelites
crops after they were harvested. So Gideon was hiding in a cave, afraid of his people’s enemies.
When Yahweh called him, his first response is to point out his lowly social status, “I’m the youngest
person in the smallest family of the weakest clan of the least significant tribe of Israel. What do I have
to offer?”
God used Gideon in a miraculous way and drove the Midianites out of the land. It didn’t matter that he
was one of the least significant person in his country. What mattered was that God called and sent
him, Gideon just needed to be open to being used by God. You can read about his exploits in the
book of Judges, starting with chapter 6.
The coup de gras to anybody who thinks that they aren’t capable to use their gifts and skills is found
in Numbers. As Israel is moving towards the Promised Land, they had to pass through Moab. The
king of the Moabites was afraid and called Balaam to curse God’s people. Even though God told him
not to, Balaam went to curse the Israelites. So God sends an angel to stop him. Balaam couldn’t see
the angel, but hilariously his donkey could. When the angel moved to stop Balaam, his donkey
repeatedly refused to go forward, stopping Balaam. So God, when necessary, can and will use a
donkey.
Let me repeat that: when necessary, God can and will use a donkey.
As you can imagine, Balaam was angry at his donkey and begins to abuse him. Finally, the donkey is
given the ability to talk and explains that he’s not going forward because an angel is blocking him.
Talk about a moment of humbling! This man who speaks for God is shown up by a donkey. Again,
when necessary God can and will use a donkey.
If that's not enough, there’s the teaching of Jesus, who once said that if God’s people don’t cry out in
worship, the rocks will.
We believe that God has called all of us to use our gifts to spread the Gospel, the Good news of
Jesus healing and redemption. And as Martin Luther wrote*, “If God spoke then through an ass
against a prophet, why should he not be able even now to speak through a righteous person…”
It doesn’t matter if you’re the most insignificant person you know, if you’re dumb as a box of rocks or if
you’re just a run-of-the-mill donkey, God can and will use you.
Grace + Peace,
Dan Bellinger
Family and Outreach Pastor
1
Save The Date
March 3 Church Family Game Night (Potluck)
March 4 Who Broke My Church Study
March 23-25 Mark VanderTuig, LCMC Head Visits
March 31 Easter Fun Day
March 31 Easter Prayer Vigil
April 1 Easter Sunday! (9am Traditional, 11am Modern)
April 22 About St. Mark’s Class
May 19 Leading from the Center of God’s Will seminar
VBS
Vacation Bible School will be this July, Sunday, July 15—Wednesday, July 18. Our theme this year is
The Beach! We hope that you’ll invite your children, grandchildren, and neighborhood kids to join us!
Lent, Holy Week & Easter Schedule
Below is the full schedule for Lent, Holy Week & Easter. We hope that you are able to join us!
Wednesdays February 21-March 21, 6-7pm Lenten Soup Suppers
Wednesdays February 21-March 21 7-8pm Lenten Service
Saturday March 24 Seminar with Mark VanderTuig: from membership to
discipleship
Sunday March 25 Mark VanderTuig preaches in worship
Thursday March 29, 7pm Maundy Thursday Service
Friday March 30, 7pm Good Friday Service, held at St. Andrew’s
Saturday March 31, 9am-5pm Prayer Vigil
Saturday March 31 10am-2pm Easter Fun Day
Sunday April 1 Easter Services, 9:00am Traditional, 11:00am Modern
Thank You!
Dear St. Mark’s,
Thank you to the ones responsible for the nice goody bags sent to the homebound people. Also, for
the nice cards from the friends at St. Mark’s and to the families for the beautiful homemade cards with
the appropriate bible verses, always so encouraging. May God bless you all for your prayers and
caring.
Sandy Muckenfuss
Dear members of St. Mark’s Lutheran Church,
Your recent donation of canned goods and toilet paper and cereal is greatly appreciated by the clients
of the Community Center of Caring Food Pantry.
Thank you, Shirley Johnson, Program Coordinator
Summer Camp Reminder
Church camp season is right around the corner! We wanted to remind you that anybody interested in
having their children or students attend one of our Lutheran Camps that St. Mark's will help by paying
half of the cost for camp! If you have any questions, please see Pastor Dan.
2
Dates
March Birthdays March Birthdays
3 — Clair Greathouse 23 — William Hathaway
5 — Peggy Badenhop 24 — Brian Moeller, Glenn
6 — Katie Carlin Mundroff, Carol Sigler
7 — Vicki Bergdall 25 — Diann Hines
8 — Laura Deckard 28 — Jerry Springer, Carol Reese
10 — Ann Friend 29 — Ruby Tuttle
12 — Marisa Meschberger 31 — Pastor Dan
14 — Travis Moeller
15 — James Johnston
Prayer Requests
Church Members
Nila Muzzillo, Sue Burdick, Regina Smith, The Kaduk Family, Ruby Tuttle, Sue Brown, Joyce Springer,
and Kathleen Lutz, our missionary in Kenya
Friends of St. Mark’s
Nik McKean (Nicki McKean’s son) … John Crager … Susan Crowl (friend of Jane Foell) … Roger
Easterday (Ruby Tuttle’s son) … Tina Muzzillo (Nila Muzzillo’s daughter-in-law) … Eva Young (neighbor of
Barry & Bonnie Trenary) … Susie Dilley (friend of Cindy Warstler) … Randy Young (member of our
community) … Mike Buchs (son of friend of Nila Muzzillo) … Gerry Nagel (Konieczki family) …Steve
Dwyer, Bun Mettert, Katlyn Kucharik (friends of Mary Heyse) …Gladys Girado (Barry Trenary’s cousin) …
Betty Deininger (Diann Hines friend’s mother) … Bob Dannenburg (friend of the Foell’s) … Nancy Pearl
(Mandy Kintz’s mother) … Leonard Hines (Mary Heyse’s brother-in-law) … Diana Raney (Cindy
Warstler’s sister) … Mungumio Vine (Kristen Konieczki’s sponsored child) … Judith Berry (Sue Brown’s
sister) … Bob Friend (cousin of Marge Norris & Marilyn Myers) … Rosie Reade (friend of Marilyn Myers)
Shut-ins and Homebound Members
Alden Swenson, Joanne Ruger, Marilyn Imus, Dolores Souder, Richard Bowerman, Eleanor Thomas,
Paul Lutz, Betty Saunders, Sandy Muckenfuss, Ella McClellan, Maxine Mason, Jean Yoder
*Prayer Requests will be kept on this list for two months, unless otherwise requested. If you would like to
add a new request or update us on the status of a person currently on the list, please contact Kathy
Fribley in the office.
3
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Lent Dinners & Worship Mark VanderTuig Visit
Our Wednesday night Lenten services will be Mark VanderTuig, National Coordinator for the
offered every Wednesday night between Ash LCMC (Lutheran Congregations in Mission for
Wednesday and Easter (except March 28) at Christ) of which we are a part of is coming to St.
7pm. We will have soup suppers at 6pm. Please Mark’s in March! Mark is the head of the LCMC
consider signing up to help with setup, clean up and a great leader and pastor. Mark will be
or brining a soup or other item on the bulletin leading a seminar on March 24 called for
board. Membership to Discipleship and we hope you
will all join us. He will also be preaching in
services on March 25 (Palm Sunday).
Lent Devotional
Lent is the perfect time to add a special
devotional to your daily practice as we fully Prayer Vigil
embrace this powerful spiritual season of We will be having a prayer vigil on Easter
reflection leading up to Easter. We have two Saturday, March 31 from 9am-5pm. We are
recommendations for lent devotions that you asking members of the congregation to come
can purchase on your own. If you cannot find a and pray in the chapel in 30 minute slots. We
copy on your own, let Pastor Marcus know and will be praying for our church, our community as
he should be able to get you a copy with 4 well as other personal and communal needs.
business day notice. Lent starts February 14! Suggestions will be provided. Please sign up for
-Lent for Everyone by NT Wright (you can some slots!
choose year A-Mathew, B-Mark or C-Luke)
-Reliving the Passion by Walter Wangerin Jr. Family Fun Day!
On Saturday, March 31st from 10am—1pm, we
Worship Assistants Needed will have our annual Family Fun Day. We’ll have
Please sign up on the Worship Assistants inflatables, crafts, games, hot dogs and an
Schedule for Maundy Thursday and Easter Easter Egg hunt at noon! We’re looking for
Services in Kraus Korner. volunteers. If you’d like to help, please let Cindy
Reese or Pastor Dan know!
Change to Prayer Times
Starting the Wednesday after Ash Wednesday Care Team Easter Treats
(February 21), our open prayer time will move to If you would like to contribute an Easter treat for
8:30-9am (instead of 8-8:30am) and our weekly our Homebound/Nursing Home residents we
prayer service will meet from 9-9:30am (instead have 16 we will be delivering to. Suggestions
of 8:30-9am) in the Chapel. include a piece of fruit, small kleenex packages,
Little Debbie cakes (packaged individually),
Chocolate eggs, etc. Please contact Judy
Family Game Night
Bozarth (637-6692) by March 12th if you'd like
Our Spring Family Game night is on Saturday
to help.
night, March 3rd, from 5—8pm. We will have a
cupcake decorating contest, so bring your best
decorated cupcakes! A meal will be provided!!!! Coffee/Hospitality & Sunday School
Also, Games! Come with us and play some The Worship Assistant Schedule is located in
games! What a fun night! Kraus Korner. We need more volunteers for
Coffee/Hospitality and Sunday School.
4Altar Guild Needs You! Blessing bags
The Altar Guild ladies are recruiting new Don’t forget that in the narthex by the wooden
members and would love to have you join. It's a doors there are blessing bags set out for
monthly job and we would train you so you feel everybody to keep in their cars. Please feel free
comfortable with the responsibility. We don’t to pass them out wherever you are and
have monthly meetings - just correspond by e- wherever you go!
mail. If you sign up and are going to be gone -
any of us are happy to substitute for you. You’d
Kenya Mission Team
be working with a wonderful group of ladies.
Our Kenya Mission Team has been finalized.
Lots of pluses to consider and we hope you do.
These 9 individuals will be traveling to Kenya in
Contact Judy at 637-6692.
June to serve with Kathleen Lutz, our
missionary there. Please be praying for them as
About St. Mark’s Class the prepare and travel. If you would like to
This is a class where you can learn about St. support the group or an individual financially,
Mark’s, our vision, and ask questions about the please contact Pastor Marcus for more
church. This class is open to everyone, but is information. The Mission Team Members are:
expected for those who wish to become Pastor Marcus Carlson, Jessica Carlson, Dave
members. We strongly encourage anyone who & Diann Hines, Alex Kaduk, Peggy Badenhop,
is interested in membership or has joined St. Peter Jungk, Sue Brown, and Scott Lutz.
Mark’s in the last three years and was not able
to come to the New Member Gathering to come Sunday Sermon Series
to one of these classes. We also encourage For Lent, we will do a Sunday morning sermon
anyone who wants to learn more about our series on the local church, while on Wednesday
church to join us as well, no matter how long Nights we will do a sermon series on key words
you have been worshipping with us. The next of the faith and our church. If you have to miss a
class will be April 22 at 11:00am. All are Sunday, you can always watch or listen online
welcome! to the sermon or request a DVD of the service
from the church office.
The False Gospel of Guilt and Shame As a part of our sermon series that started in
The sermons for this series, along with notes the new year, The Bible as Narrative, we have
can be found on our website. Some have asked used a book by N.T. Wright as a part of our
about the book that Pastor Marcus wrote by the sermon preparation. It is called Scripture and
same name. The book has been released! You the Authority of God: How to Read the Bible
can order it in print or kindle on Amazon or you Today. We have put a copy in the library in case
can order one from the church office for $10. you are interested in reading it and you can of
course pick up a copy on your own as well.
Celebrate Recovery
St. Mark’s has partnered with Celebrate Food Pantry Donations
Recovery--a place for people walking through For 2018 we will be accepting any non
hurts, hang-ups, and habits--at the Cupbearer perishable items. Occasionally, we will ask for
Cafe. There is a community meal at 5:30 p.m. donations for special needs or organizations we
every Thursday with the Celebrate Recovery are supporting. Please see the board each
large group meeting at 6:30 p.m. If you would month in Kraus Korner for more information.
like more information about CR or are interested
in attending, please see a pastor.
5Weekly Bible Studies (chapter 9-end). It is not too late to get a book
Pastor’s Bible Study and join in. If you would like a copy of the
Pastor’s Bible Study continues every Thursday book, but cannot do the study, you can get
at 10:00 a.m. Bring your Bible and join us! one for free from the church office. The
Sunday morning Bible Study group will also be
Sunday Morning Adult Bible Study discussing the book each month during this
The Adult Bible Study class will be reading the time.
book Who Broke My Church. We will be
attending the book study led by Jessica Carlson
Recycling Fundraiser
and having a group discussion of our own one
We are collecting unused cell phones/
week. Books are available in the church office
smartphones, inkjet cartridges (full or empty),
at no charge. Everyone is invited to attend!
iPads/tablets and iPods/mp3 players for
Mar. 4 - Discussion led by Jessica-chap. 9- end recycling through April 30th. Items can be
Mar. 18 - Group discussion - chapters 9 - end working or broken - we can get cash for both!
We cannot recycle toner cartridges (the long
Opportunities to Serve ones found in many offices) or any accessories
Prayer Team: like cables. A collection box and flyers are in
We are looking for additional members to join Kraus Corner. Questions? See Jessica
our prayer team. Prayer team members are Carlson.
scheduled to staff our prayer stations during
communion. Training is provided. Please let Israel 2018 Trip & Information
Pastor Marcus or the church office know if you Plans are underway for our next trip to the Holy
are interested. Land. Information meetings were held in
Nursery: January. If you are still interested and have
We are looking for individuals to serve for one questions, let Pastor Marcus know. If there is
of the Sunday morning services once a month. enough interest, future information meetings
Please contact Pastor Dan if interested. may be added. This is an amazing and powerful
Tech Team: trip where we get to walk in the footsteps of
We are hoping to add to our tech team, those Jesus and see the historical and Biblical sites.
who run the slides and sound for Sunday This is a powerful and meaningful trip, one
morning services. Training provided! It would every Christian should take in their lifetime. The
mean serving for at least one of the services trip is planned for October 16-25, 2018, with an
once a month. Please contact any Pastoral optional extension to Jordan October 25-28,
Team member if interested. 2018. The flyers are now available in Kraus
Corner. Please see Pastor Marcus with
Who Broke My Church? questions.
In September, a new book released that some
from St. Mark’s were honored by reading earlier
LCMC National Gathering
drafts. This book, Who Broke My Church, is by
Pastor Marcus, Pastor Dan and Diann Hines
Kent Hunter (Jon’s dad) and Tracee Swank. It is
attended the LCMC (Lutheran Congregations in
a fantastic book that will be helpful to many
Mission for Christ) National Gathering in
churches, their pastors, staff, leaders and
October. It was a wonderful and meaningful
congregation members. We have a grant that
event for all. Next years gathering, the second
will allow us to purchase this book for anyone at
week of October, will be in Des Moines and we
St. Mark’s who is interested in reading it. We will
will be using some grant funds to help others
also be hosting a book study for this book led by
attend this gathering as we will be able to drive
Jessica Carlson beginning in January. The
out for the event. If you have questions or
study will meet from 11:00am-12:00pm on the
interest, please see Pastor Marcus or Pastor
following date for discussion of the reading: 3/4
Dan.
6Engaging Young Adult Listening Tour service rather than being loaned out as was
St. Mark's is a part of an Engaging Young the case with Nepal & Bangladesh. We feel
Adult's Grant Program. As a part of this very much called to this, but feel it is best to use
program, we are spending time listening to the Pastor Marcus’ time in this case. We will also be
stories of as many Young Adults (18-35 year raising all our funds for both Kenya and India.
olds) as possible. If you are 18-35, or know The bulk of the funds that we need to raise will
somebody who is 18-35, please see Pastor be to cover the cost of the conference in India
Dan! Each person who is interviewed will as the pastors there cannot afford to even travel
receive a $25 gift card. to a conference, let alone attend one. This is an
important effort for us as most pastors in this
part of the world have little to no training. The
Upcoming Sunday Morning Sermon Series
council has given us permission to raise funds
We encourage you to read the passage for
through the church so that those who give our
each week the Thursday, Friday, and Saturday
our summer of missions will be able to make a
before worship and the Monday, Tuesday, and
tax deductible contribution. After our service in
Wednesday after worship as a way to further
India, we also plan to do a vacation together at
prepare for, reflect on, and listen to God as we
our own expense and again with our own time.
look to the Bible together.
We do need to raise support, especially for the
The Local Church pastors in India to be able to attend the
3/4 - Commitment/Leadership [Phil. 3:1-10] conference. We covet your prayers as we plan,
3/11 - Conflict [Matthew 18:15-20] raise funds and go to serve. If you are are
3/18 - Change [Isaiah 43:18-25] willing and able to support our effort to raise
3/25 - Membership to Discipleship [TBA] around $7,500, you can give through the church
by marking your giving for ‘Carlson Missions.’
Vocabulary We thank you in advance for any prayers or
3/7 - Kingdom Community [Matt. 4:18-22] support
3/14 - Person of Peace [Luke 10:1-12] -Pastor Marcus & Jessica Carlson
3/21 - Priesthood of All Believers [John 14:1-14]
3/29 - Maundy Thursday [TBA]
Immersion Experiences
3/30 - Good Friday (Community) [TBA]
As you are already probably aware, we have
4/1 - Easter! [TBA]
had several church members participate in an
immersion learning experience in the past
Carlson Summer of Missions couple years, some traveling to England and
We have spent some time in the past couple others to Hot Springs, Arkansas. Those who
months doing some family planning and have participated in these trips have urged us to
visioning as we think about what God is calling continue to offer these opportunities to those
us to do and be and as we look ahead to some who are interested. Many of those members
key things coming up. As a result of those who have been on one of the trips have given
prayers and conversations, we have decided to money to a special fund to pay it forward. We
dedicate a chunk of our time in the summer of also received a grant to help match those funds,
2018 to giving back though service and allowing for more people to participate. While
missions. We will both be going on the church not all expenses will be covered, a significant
mission trip to work with Kathleen Lutz in portion of them will be covered. We currently
Kenya. Also, after having served in Nepal and plan on participating in the Hot Springs,
Bangladesh this past spring, Pastor Marcus Arkansas immersion experience in October of
received many invitations to serve. After 2018 and the England immersion in January of
weighing all of those, we are both going to go to 2019. If you are interested in participating in one
train pastors for 4 days in Calcutta, India in July. or both of these experiences or have questions,
We have decided that Pastor Marcus will use please contact Pastor Marcus.
his own time off in his call contract for this
72018 Strategic Plan Europe and South America wanting to find ways
2018 is the second year in our five year to connect with LCMC. It is amazing how things
strategic plan. During January, we will be have changed!
mapping out the ideas, goals and items that are In August, Pastor Steve Lien, our Coordinator
a part of our 2018 plan for the year and will for Pastoral Ministry, made a change and went
share them as we go in the newsletter. If you back to serving a local church, Victory Lutheran
want to see a copy of the plan for this year, Church, Mesa, AZ. We lost a great colleague
please contact Pastor Marcus. and leader for our association, but Victory
gained a great pastor.
In November, Pastor Perry Fruhling made a
Card Making Class
change and announced his resignation from St.
Come join us on Saturday, April 14th to make 4
Mark’s Lutheran Church in Marion, Iowa, to
greeting cards and enjoy fellowship at the same
become our Coordinator for Pastoral Ministry.
time! Everything will be prepared for you…just
We have gained a great colleague and leader
assemble and add your own touch. We will
for LCMC, and St. Mark’s is now facing
need to know how many are coming so we have
significant change.
enough supplies for everyone. Please see
Jesus is still Lord of the Church and we trust He
Marge Norris, Janice Tilghman, or Vicki
has all this in the palm of His Almighty hand.
Marhenke if you have any questions.
Whenever I face change, I ask the Spirit to
show me the opportunities that are being
presented, because with every change comes
hope. Isn’t this the life of a disciple? Out of
death comes resurrection, out of chaos came
the beauty and power of creation, out of sin
comes forgiveness and new life—all in the
name of Jesus: “Now to him who is able to do
immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine,
" according to his power that is at work within us,
The Loft Dates to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus
March 11 — Loft Gathering throughout all generations, forever and ever!
March 25 — Loft Gathering Amen” (Ephesians 3:20-21, NIV).
Change is not easy and it is not always good.
LCMC Update: Our Annual Gathering: A Sometimes we face difficult circumstances, the
Family Reunion loss of someone we have loved, the change of
pastors, the moving away of our children and
[Article written by Mark Vander Tuig, Service grandchildren, the ending of a ministry, a
Coordinator] devastating diagnosis, the beginning of the end
Change is the only constant—except for Jesus of a life, a job, a relationship that we cherish.
and the Word of God, everything else changes, But even in this, God is at work. This is our
all the time. And that’s true for us, our story, our hope, and our Life. As we walk
relationships, our churches and this association. faithfully into a new year, may we remember the
When we started in 2001 we had 42 U.S. promise of Jesus at the end of the Great
congregations, and now we have over 750 and Commission of Matthew 28, “…and lo I am with
another 200+ around the world. We have been you always to the end of the age.”
recently contacted by church bodies in northern
8Alpha Update
Alpha has been continuing at the YMCA! We are about half way through the course, and it has been
meaningful for many people as we have laughed and cried together. It is amazing to see God work in
new and mature Christians lives.
I have additionally been leading an Alpha midday with the YMCA staff. This has been a great
experience as they are a joyful and talkative group.
Please be praying for these two Alphas and that each person would grow closer to Jesus!
Kingdom Communities
Kingdom Communities will be starting this year! These are groups of 15-30 people, that will be led by
lay members of our congregation. Each Kingdom Community will practice up, in, and out that we
learned from our study on the triangle. However, they will have a specific focused mission they feel
the Holy Spirit is calling them to. Each Kingdom Community will eat, pray, laugh, read the Bible and
share life together just as they did in the early church. This is where some of the deepest discipleship
and transformation occurs both with people inside and outside our church.
Come learn more about Kingdom Communities at 1pm on Sunday, March 11th. We will meet in the
Council Room. For any questions please email me at jon@stmarksauburn.org.
Sabbatical Team
The Sabbatical Team has been meeting with Pastor Marcus Carlson to give input into obtaining a
grant for use by the congregation and Pastor Marcus during his Sabbatical. Pastor intends to be on
Sabbatical leave, as provided in his call, during June and July of 2019. Ideas have been exchanged
as to how Pastor can be renewed, refreshed and replenished during this time, as well as how the
congregation can reflect and be renewed. We shall keep the congregation apprised as we work
together so that the Sabbatical is meaningful and a time of spiritual growth for Pastor Marcus and the
congregation.
Sue Brown, Mutual Ministry
Vickie Marhenke, Congregational representative
Mason Reese, Council Member
Marilyn Myers, Council Member
Blood Drive at St. Mark’s
The Bloodmobile will be here from the American Red Cross on Sunday, March 25 from 8:30am
to 12:30pm. Please call 1-800-RED CROSS or go to redcrossblood.org, sponsor code
“stmarksluth” to schedule your blood donation appointment. There are forms in Kraus Korner
for you to take with information about how to schedule an appointment.
Grandparents & Caregivers Support Group
Every 4th Tuesday of the month, from 6:30-7:30pm at the Heimach Center (1800 E 7th St., Auburn)
there will be a support group for custodial grandparents and grandparents who often care for their
grandchildren. If you would like to come and need childcare, please contact Amanda and Rita at
260-357-3333.
9St. Mark’s Financial Update
Operating Fund Snapshot
General Fund/Budget/Operating Fund
The Operating Fund is our yearly budget. This is also called the general fund. This is what Pastor Dan likes to
describe as the ‘regular’ income and expenses of the church. The Operating Fund covers those things that
occur on a regular basis such as compensation for Pastor Marcus, Pastor Dan, Kathy and Laura and things
such as utilities, insurance and other regular expenses for our staff, building and ministries. This is different
from the special (restricted/designated accounts) that cover new initiatives and one-time or special expenses.
Through January 31, 2018 Operating Fund Reserve Remaining: $21,453.98
Income Expense Net
Budget $22,422.92 $22,422.92 -$0
Actual $22,049.74 $21,158.30 $891.44
Difference -$373.18 $1,264.62 —————
—————————————————————————————————————————————
Finance Note: Going Forward
2018 is a big year financially for St. Mark’s, but we are off to a good start and the finance team is cautiously
optimistic. During this year through growing our membership and worship and growing the giving of those who
already call St. Mark’s home, we need to close the budget gap in order to continue the second pastor position
in 2019. We are encouraged by our progress and even more encouraged by the small amount it will take to
close the gap and meet the budget going forward. Simply put, if every giving unit (family or single) increased
their giving (based on 2018 pledge or current giving if you did not pledge) by $10 a week or $45 a month, we
would meet our budget going forward. We are hopeful that we can close this gap through increased giving from
new and current members and ask that you pray both for this need and consider your role in helping us grow
into our budget over 2018.
Financial Picture Through January 31, 2018
Assets
Total of all Accounts $734,360.65
Special Funds (Restricted/Designated Accounts)
Building Fund $7,396.93
Memorial Fund $13,795.11
Youth Group $9,185.23
Funding Our Future ($26,000 earmarked) $31,150.62
Preschool $67,882.10
Grants $72,640.18
Endowment Fund (investment held at Lutheran Foundation) $232,822.73
Funding Our Future Reserve (investment held at Lutheran Foundation) $254,464.12
Other Restricted Designated Accounts $21,259.25
Total Restricted/Designated Accounts $689,142.29
Operating Fund Reserves $21,453.98
Bills to be Paid/Accounts Payable $2,310.40
Total $0
10St. Mark’s Culture & DNA
This section of our newsletter is meant to be a source of education to help us better understand the
culture, DNA, structure, vocabulary, and ministry of St. Mark’s. We hope you find this encouraging,
informative, challenging, and inspiring. It is critical as we develop a Kingdom Culture we have the
same understanding, language and information, so we do encourage you to read this section each
month.
Our DNA:
While we are all unique and have our own unique DNA, we also as a church have a shared and unique DNA.
We utilize the shape of a triangle to explain much of our ministry, vision and structure. This is rooted in the first
triangle that represents the three dimensions or focuses of Jesus’ life and ministry. Jesus lived his intentional
life on earth through three relationships: up, in and out.
The Triangle: The Triangle helps us to
Father understand that first God is a relationship and
He has created us for a relationship with him
and other people. Up-Jesus only did what He
saw the Father doing. Who we are comes
Up
before anything we do. Jesus was never too
busy to spend time alone talking to the Father.
In the same way it all starts with a relationship
with God. In-Just as we spend time with God it
is important to live our lives with other
Christians.This is more than a meeting on a
Jesus Sunday; it is sharing food, celebrating life, and
caring for each others needs.Out-Jesus also
spent time out in the world announcing and
bring in the kingdom of God. In the same way
God wants us to life a life that brings hope,
restoration, and reconciliation to a hurting
world. He is calling his church to join him on His
Disciples In Out World mission for the world and point people to his
son Jesus.
Our Vocabulary:
Most churches (along with other organizations) do not realize that the language and the vocabulary of the
organization have great significance to the organization.One of the cornerstones of any culture is language or
vocabulary. This month our vocabulary word is Disciple.
Disciple: one who learns from, follows and is a pupil or apprentice of Jesus Christ. Following Christ, loyalty to
Christ, a desire both to learn from Christ and to teach what has been learned, a desire to multiply disciples and
become more like Christ are some key markers of a disciple. Making disciples is our focus along with creating
a discipleship culture. To be a disciple of Jesus is to imitate Jesus in all areas of life.
Prayer of the Month:
Let nothing disturb you, Let nothing frighten you, All things pass away: God never changes. Patience obtains
all things. He who has God finds he lacks nothing; God alone suffices. [Prayer of St. Teresa of Avilla]
Culture Question of the Month:
What do you see God doing in the world right now?
11Montessori Moment
This month we are studying the human body in our science area. We have a
skeleton and human anatomy model with all the parts that are inside our
bodies that the children can explore. We had an activity that used food to
represent the brain, heart, lungs, stomach and bones as we learn about what
is inside our bodies. The older children in the afternoon traced their whole
body and are now working on labeling the different parts of the body.
We celebrated Valentine’s Day with a small party decorating cookies that the
older children made the day before. Everyone handed out Valentines to their
friends in the bags they decorated themselves.
We are excited about our field trip to Science Central. We will be exploring
the facility and we get to participate in a Bubble Lab.
Events Help Needed
Registration forms for the 2018-2019 school year If you look at our FB page we encourage you to
have been sent home to current families. Open like our posts and share them. This is just
enrollment begins on March 1st. We are another way of spreading the news about our
currently scheduling tours for the next school program.
year. If you know of any families looking for a Donations needed for preschool this month:
preschool please have them email us to set-up a Small Dixie Cups.
tour as spaces for next year are limited.
Interested families should send emails to As always if you would like to volunteer in our
linda@stmarksauburn.org classroom, we always welcome the help.
12Why do we???…
This is a part of a series of articles we will publish in our newsletter every other month or so. It is an
opportunity to look at the ‘why’ of what we do.
Why do we??…
Have All These New Signs
You probably have noticed many new signs over the past couple years at St. Mark’s. We changed all
of our outdoor signs and added an electronic message sign. We have added directional signs inside,
and now have various standing and wall banners as well as other signs in the building to remind us of
our mission, vision, values and more. Why do we have all of these signs anyway?
Culture Counts! What is needed in the church in the US today is not a new program, building, tool or
type of pastor. Rather what is needed is a Kingdom culture. The church needs a culture that looks like
the early church and is consistent with and points people to Jesus and the Kingdom of God. This
must of course fit the context of the church and the community. Each non-directional sign around the
building is a key part of ensuring that we all know and embrace the Kingdom culture that we are trying
to create at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church.
We all Need to Know our Mission, Vision, Values and vocabulary. Our mission, vision, values and
vocabulary are not just words on a document that we never look at. At St. Mark’s, these are the things
that guide every decision and inform our identity, direction and ministries in order to ensure that
everything we do is consistent with our mission, vision, values and vocabulary. We also need to make
sure that we are honoring our mission, vision, values and vocabulary.
We Must be More Visitor-Friendly. Very few churches are truly visitor-friendly as churches rarely
think about what it is like to walk into their church or any church for the first time. For many, church
and our church is foreign to them. They are nervous, pessimistic and are put tremendous stock into
their experience as a visitor. Signage is essential for visitors, not only to know where to go, but to
know more about who we are and make them feel welcome. This is complicated by the less than
easy and natural design and layout of our building.
Not Everyone Knows Where We Need to Go. As mentioned above, not everyone knows were to
go. It takes a long time for most people to get used to the building and with visitors to worship, the
preschool and other events held at St. Mark’s, consistent signage is critical to knowing where to go
and who we are as a church.
As a side note, more than 50% of the cost of these signs was covered by grant money. The rest of the
money came out of special gifts or funds as not a single penny from the operating fund was used for
any of the new signs. If you have any questions, please feel free to see Pastor Marcus or Pastor Dan.
13Worship Assistants Schedule March 4, 2018 to March 21, 2018
March 4 March 7 (Wed.) March 11 March 14 March 18 March 21
(Wed.) (Wed.)
Preaching Jon Hunter Pastor Dan Pastor Marcus Pastor Marcus Pastor Dan Pastor Dan
Assisting Minister Rod K. Diann H. Pastor Dan Dave H. Mason R. John F.
(T)
Children Time (T) Jon Hunter N/A Pastor Marcus N/A Pastor Dan N/A
Acolyte (T) Camden K. Ava A. Alex L. Alex K. Camden K.
Lector (T) Mary H. Marge N. Alison A. Jayne M. Jane F. Bill H.
Communion Asst. Glenn M. & Connie M. & Janice Rex & Vicki B. Glenn M. & Rod Diann H. & Rex & Vicki B.
(T) Peggy B. T. K. Peggy B.
Ushers (T) Jerry S., Rex B., Dave & Jayne M. Jerry S., Art B., Stan B. & Kathy Jerry S., Rex B., Tina M. & Tony
Tony K., Stan B. Jim & Ann F. G. Art B., Len M. K.
Greeters (T) Gary H. Marge N. & Marilyn Ken & Mary Stan & Judy B. Len M. & Bill & Sarah H.
M H. Carolyn O.
Nursery (T) Cindy W. N/A Jessica C. & N/A Carol R. & N/A
Kaitlyn G. Linda Wolf
Sunday School (T) N/A Tina M. N/A N/A
Tech (T) Connie M. & Barry T. Barry T. & Connie M. Jeff & Jarrett R. Barry T.
Alex K. Justin A.
Prayer Team (T) Pastor Dan & N/A Brian M. & N/A Cindy R. & Jon N/A
Jayne M Sue B. H.
Altar Kathy G. Peggy B. Kathy G. Peggy B. Kathy G. Peggy B.
Coffee/Hospitality Tina M. N/A N/A N/A
Emcee (M) Pastor Dan N/A Jon Hunter N/A Jon Hunter N/A
Communion (M) Pastor Dan N/A Marilyn M. N/A Marge N. N/A
Prayer Team (M) Cindy R. N/A Jessica C. N/A Jayne M. N/A
Greeters (M) Cindy R. N/A Tina M. N/A Jayne M. N/A
Nursery (M) Ashlyn R. N/A Heidi M. N/A Jessica C. N/A
Tech (M) P. Marcus & N/A Pastor Dan & N/A Barry & P. N/A
Micah Micah Marcus
Other N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A
14Worship Assistants Schedule March 25, 2018 to April 15, 2018
March 25 Mar. 29 Thur. Mar. 30 Friday April 1-Easter April 8 April 15
Preaching Mark VanderTuig Pastor Marcus Jon Hunter Pastor Dan
Assisting Minister Pastor Marcus Pastor Dan Dave H.
(T)
Children Time (T) Pastor Marcus Jon H. Pastor Dan
Acolyte (T) Abby C. Alex K. Camden K.
Lector (T) Mary H. Mary H. Kathy G.
Communion Asst. Rod K. & Janice T. Glenn M. & Peggy Rex & Vicki B.
(T) B.
Ushers (T) Jerry S., Rex B., Jerry S., Rex B., Art Jerry S., Tony K.,
Dave & Jayne M. B., Stan B. Dave & Jayne M.
Greeters (T) Nila & Mary Lee Russ & Barb H. Nila & Mary Lee M
M.
Nursery (T) Jim & Ann F. N/A N/A Jessica & Kaitlyn Carol R. & Linda
Wolf
Sunday School (T) N/A N/A N/A
Tech (T) Barry T. & Micah Barry T. & Connie Justin A. & Micah C.
M.
Prayer Team (T) Sue B. & Jessica C. Sue B. & Brian M. Jessica C. & Marge
N.
Altar Kathy G. Kathy G. Kathy G. Diann H. Diann H. Diann H.
Coffee/Hospitality N/A N/A
Emcee (M) Jon Hunter Jon H. Pastor Dan Jon H.
Communion (M) Marilyn M. Jeff R. Marilyn M.
Prayer Team (M) Marge N. Cindy R.
Greeters (M) Marge N. Jeff & Cindy R.
Nursery (M) Linda Wolf Ashlyn R. Carol R.
Tech (M) Pastor Dan Jarrett & Mason R. P. Marcus & Micah
Other N/A N/A N/A N/A
15MARCH 2018
Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
25 26 27 28 1 2 3
9:30 AM Worship Service with Communion Pastor Dan's Day Off 8:30 AM Open Prayer & 10:00 AM Pastor's Bible Pastor Marcus' Day Off 5:00 PM Family Game
10:30 AM Coffee Hour 6:00 PM ALPHA Class Communion Study Night
11:00 AM Kingdom Community Teachings 9:00 AM Prayer 5:30 PM Celebrate
11:30 AM 11:30 Gathering (Modern Gathering Recovery
Worship) 9:30 AM Pastors Mtg.
12:30 PM Confirmation 5:30 PM Modern
1:30 PM Kenya Mission Team Meeting Worship Practice
6:00 PM The Loft Gathering 6:00 PM Lent Dinner
7:00 PM Lent Service
8:00 PM Choir Practice
4 5 6 7 8 9 10
9:30 AM Worship Service with Communion Pastor Dan's Day Off 8:30 AM Open Prayer & 10:00 AM Pastor's Bible Pastor Marcus' Day Off
10:30 AM Coffee Hour 6:00 PM ALPHA Class Communion Study
11:00 AM Who Broke My Church Book 9:00 AM Prayer 5:30 PM Celebrate
Study Gathering Recovery
11:30 AM 11:30 Gathering (Modern 9:30 AM Pastors & Kathy 7:00 PM Council Meeting
Worship) Meeting
5:30 PM Modern
Worship Practice
6:00 PM Lent Dinner
7:00 PM Lent Service
8:00 PM Choir Practice
11 12 13 14 15 16 17
9:30 AM Worship Service with Communion Pastor Dan's Day Off 4:30 PM Preschool 8:30 AM Open Prayer & 10:00 AM Pastor's Bible Pastor Marcus' Day Off
10:30 AM Coffee Hour 6:00 PM ALPHA Class Board Meeting Communion Study
11:30 AM 11:30 Gathering (Modern 9:00 AM Prayer 5:30 PM Celebrate
Worship) Gathering Recovery
12:30 PM Confirmation 9:30 AM Pastors
1:00 PM Kingdom Community Teachings Meeting
1:30 PM Kenya Mission Team Meeting 4:15 PM Sabbatical
6:00 PM The Loft Gathering Team Meeting
16
5:30 PM Modern
Worship Practice
6:00 PM Lent Dinner
7:00 PM Lent Service
8:00 PM Choir Practice
18 19 20 21 22 23 24
9:30 AM Worship Service with Communion Pastor Dan's Day Off 8:00 AM All Staff 10:00 AM Pastor's Bible Mark VanderTuig Visit Mark VanderTuig Visit
10:30 AM Coffee Hour 6:00 PM ALPHA Class Meeting Study Pastor Marcus' Day Off
11:00 AM Sunday Morning Adult Bible 8:30 AM Open Prayer & 5:30 PM Celebrate
Study Communion Recovery
11:30 AM 11:30 Gathering (Modern 9:00 AM Prayer
Worship) Gathering
9:30 AM Pastors
Meeting
12:00 PM Genelogy
Group
12:00 PM Seniors Lunch
5:30 PM Modern
Worship Practice
6:00 PM Lent Dinner
7:00 PM Lent Service
8:00 PM Choir Practice
25 26 27 28 29 30 31
Mark VanderTuig Visit Pastor Dan's Day Off 8:30 AM Open Prayer & 10:00 AM Pastor's Bible Pastor Marcus' Day Off 9:00 AM Prayer Vigil
8:30 AM Blood Drive Communion Study 7:00 PM Good Friday 10:00 AM Easter Fun
9:30 AM Worship Service with Communion 9:00 AM Prayer 5:30 PM Celebrate Service Day
10:30 AM Coffee Hour Gathering Recovery
11:30 AM 11:30 Gathering (Modern 9:30 AM Pastors 7:00 PM Maundy
Worship) Meeting Thursday Service
12:30 PM Confirmation 5:30 PM Modern 8:00 PM Choir Practice
6:00 PM The Loft Gathering Worship PracticeSt. Mark’s Lutheran Church
211 West Ninth Street
Auburn, IN 46706
Web Page: www.stmarksauburn.org
Pastor Marcus: pastormarcus@stmarksauburn.org
Pastor Dan: pastordan@stmarksauburn.org
E-mail: office@stmarksauburn.org
Return Service Requested
Building Relationships
Transforming Lives
St. Mark’s Messenger is published monthly by St. Mark’s Lutheran Church
The Rev. Dr. Marcus J. Carlson Senior Pastor
Rev. Dan Bellinger Family & Outreach Pastor
Jon Hunter Young Adult & Evangelism Minister
Laura Deckard Director of Music
Kathy Fribley Church Secretary
Linda Vandemark Preschool Director
Our Mission: To bring about transformation in individuals, families, our community, and
the world through Jesus Christ
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