"We are followers of Jesus Christ for the sake of the world." - Our Mission Statement: Advent Lutheran Church
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
February 2021
Suntree, FL Our Mission Statement:
Melbourne Beach, FL “We are followers of Jesus Christ for the sake of the world.”
Thank you for all who came to the to put a large part of our time,
January 24 Annual Meeting either in- resources, and energy into
person or by Zoom. We learned a few offering our congregation and our
things that we need to do differently community worship experiences
next time, but overall it went well that are as excellent, authentic,
under the circumstances. I am and contextual as we can make
humbled and honored to officially be them. We are convinced that all of
the Senior Pastor of Advent Lutheran our other activities are empowered
Church and I am excited to see what and informed by our worship life,
God has planned for Advent. the time we spend together in
God’s presence, hearing God’s
Even in a crazy year like 2020 and word, and receiving God’s gifts.
a still unpredictable 2021, the one
2. Ministry to Children and Youth:
thing that is consistent is our mission at
It was unanimous among our
Advent. We say our mission at the end
gathered leadership that every
of every worship service. Our mission
ministry of our congregation
is to be followers of Jesus Christ for the
(and certainly the future of all
sake of the world. It is an easy mission
ministries) is positively impacted
to understand but it takes a lot of
when our ministry to children
hard work, passion, and faith to live
and youth is strong and well-
out.
integrated into all parts of the
life of our congregation. We
I think it is a good time to remind
will continue to emphasize and
ourselves of our mission as a faith
teach the implementation of
community and the ways we are to
intergenerational activities in every
fulfill our mission. Here at Advent, in
area of our congregation’s life
order to fulfill our mission to be the
and ministry. By making this our
best followers of Jesus Christ for the
second priority, we are committing
sake of the world, we continue to
to putting the time, resources,
focus on the following ministries and
and energy into this ministry that
activities in 2021.
is necessary to make it an even
more vital and central part of our
1. Worship: This is corporate worship,
congregational life and ministry.
the kind of worship we do together.
By making this our top priority we
are committing to continuing
2
3. Outreach: This encompasses will be well-prepared and well-
service to those in need, service to equipped to do what God has
our community, and evangelism; called them to do.
proclaiming the Gospel to our
community. By making this activity These five primary areas of focus
our number three priority, we are were developed by our staff and lay
committing to keeping activities leadership to remind us of everything
which seek to better the lives of the it takes for the people of Advent to
people around us. This is a central live out God’s mission. These are our
part of our planning when we make guiding principles as we navigate
decisions regarding programming, through a pandemic and post-
resources, volunteers, and the use of pandemic world. Things may never
our facilities and staff. return to what they were in the past,
but God will work through every
4. Community Engagement: This is
situation and will guide us as we
all about building relationships
continue to be Christ’s disciples.
with those individuals, businesses,
government agencies, and other
I am excited and hopeful for what
organizations which surround the
2021 will bring as we continue to focus
church. By becoming well and
on our mission and how God wants us
positively known by our community,
to live out this mission in our lives and
we hope to open doors and smooth
communities. I look forward to walking
the way for our ministries to bring the
this journey alongside you as we go
kingdom of God into the Suntree-
wherever God’s Spirit guides us.
Viera and Melbourne Beach
communities.
Take Care and God Bless,
5. Discipleship (Equipping): Our
leadership has recognized that,
in the past, we have called and
invited people to participate in the
leadership of this congregation,
but we have not prepared them
or equipped them to do what we
have asked them to do. As one of
our top five activities, we hope to
design and implement systems that
will ensure every staff member and
volunteer who serves at Advent
3
From the keyboard of
--Pastor Dave
Why worship (especially during Lent)?
Second, Worship reminds us of who
As the Pastor for Worship and we are (and who we are not). We are
Discipleship at Advent Lutheran children of God, beloved, forgiven,
Church this article could seem pretty covered by God’s grace, and filled
self-serving. with God’s Spirit, along with hundreds
of other powerful truths about us that
After all, if we didn’t have a worship life are reinforced when we worship. And,
at Advent, I would be out of a job! just as important, worship reminds
us that we are not God. We are not
But let’s imagine for a moment that the ultimate authority in our lives or in
Advent didn’t exist. It wouldn’t change anyone else’s life.
a thing about what the Bible has to say
on the subject. Worship is especially important during
the season of Lent because Lent is a
Throughout the scriptures we are time set apart for clearing out what
encouraged, commanded, and is hindering our relationship with God
moved by the Spirit to worship God. and nurturing what gives it growth.
If I were to make a list of the relevant
verses, it would fill up the rest of this If you have gotten out of the habit of
newsletter (so I won’t). regular worship attendance, Lent is
the perfect time to get back where
Why? For two main reasons. you have always belonged.
First, we need to set aside significant Whether it’s at home in front of a
time for the task of focusing on who screen (due to the pandemic) or in
God is so that we remember and allow person, the Holy Spirit, the scriptures,
this foundational truth to shape our and all of us at Advent urge you to
lives. gather with your sisters and brothers
in the faith and be reminded of the
When a person is convinced right most important and wonderful things
down to their bones about who anyone can imagine.
God is (and who is not God) when
the character and nature of God I will see you in
(love) is deeply ingrained in a person,
it changes them forever. Worship worship!
reinforces and strengthens these things
every time we truly engage in it. If we
get out of the habit of worshiping,
the world will unravel and wear away
these foundational beliefs over time
until they no longer have an impact on
our lives.
4
Which Way? There is a way that serves and
In my sermon on January 17, 2020, I cares and gives hard to achieve
quoted a poem I wrote several years compassion and forgiveness and
ago. I have had numerous requests to hope. A soul, a friend, a future in
publish the poem in the Advocate. If eternity and a legacy of kindness are
you would like an electronic version of highly valued.
the poem to share with friends, please
let me know. There is a way that counts; counts
income and outflow and square
Which Way? footage and titles before your name
and letters after your name and the
There is up and down and wrong and number of people who look up and
right. There is this way and that way call you somebody.
and inside out. There is a way of lies
and there is a way of truth. There is There is a way that counts; that counts
the way of the world and the way of because people look to you and call
God. you somebody special, somebody
who sees you eye to eye, tear to tear,
There is a way that is selfish. There is a smile for smile. That counts.
way that is selfless.
There is a way that divides and
There is a way that says, “I’m the most conquers. There is a way that gathers
important person.” And there is a way and celebrates.
that says, “You are the most important
person.” There is a way that notices
opportunity; opportunity to seize the
There is a way that loves things and initiative, to grasp the gold ring and
uses people and there is a way that run with it, to look at life as a chance
loves people and uses things. to grow large and loud and enjoy the
fruits of your labor.
There is a way that promotes power
and there is a way that promotes There is way that notices opportunity;
peace. opportunity to spend a moment
with a friend in need or a friend in
There is a way that plans and plots celebration; to seize the day, the
and schemes and works hard to time that God grants to his people
achieve success and power and to look with wonder on creation and
wealth. A position, a place, a future community, to look at life as a chance
and a legacy are highly valued. to grow deep and mature and enjoy
the fruit of the Spirit.
Continued on page 6
5
Continued from page 5
Ash Wednesday
There is a way that comes out of Worship Opportunities
the dirt that breeds contemptuous
competition and yields a crop of For the safety and health of everyone
corruption. involved and at the recommendation
of the Bishop’s Office, we will not be
There is a way that rains down from having in-person Ash Wednesday
heaven that blossoms in peace and Worship or have our Ashes and Prayer
yields a harvest of righteousness. Drive-Thru opportunities this year.
There is a way that would make a Instead we will be offering a
deal with the devil to get ahead in recorded worship
this world – Faust comes to mind. service of the Suntree
Campus available
There is a way that bows before God Ash Wednesday
to give hope in this world – Mother morning and a Live
Theresa comes to mind. Streamed Service at
our Melbourne Beach
There is a way that is hard, uphill, Campus at 7:00pm so
difficult, straining to win the prize for people can worship at home.
which the world calls us upward, to
be on top of it all and look down We also have individual/family ash
upon the rest. packets with instructions to give out
for people to participate
There is a way that is hard, downhill, in the Imposition of Ashes
difficult, straining to win the prize at home as well. These
for which Christ has called us individual/family packets
heavenward, to be on the bottom (one packet per family)
lifting others up so that they can see will be available starting
the light of day and enjoy. the weekend of February
6/7 after worship. You can also come
There is a way that takes and a way to the Suntree Campus Office starting
that gives. Give and take, take your the week of February 8 to pick up a
pick. packet during regular office hours.
For those at our Melbourne Beach
Which way will you Campus please contact Pastor Rick if
go today … and you are not able to pick up a packet
tomorrow? after worship.
Blessings,
6
ADVENT LUTHERAN CHURCH
ANNUAL COMBINED CONGREGATIONAL MEETING
JANUARY 24, 2021
Due to Covid 19 pandemic, the May 2020 and January 2021 congregational meetings were
combined and for the first time the meeting was held as a partially remote attendance meeting.
MINUTES
Logistics of the meeting conductance were explained by President Bill Johnson. There were 99
members in attendance via face to face and Zoom participation. (39 Zoom, 47 @Suntree, 13 @
Mel Beach). A quorum was declared. (needed 78) A simple majority is required for approval of
all motions.
The Annual Congregational Finance & Budget Meeting coupled with the May 2020
Congregational meeting was called to order at 12:36 PM by President Bill Johnson.
President Johnson asked for and a motion was made to combine the May 2020 and January
2021 Congregational meetings, allow for remote attendance, and paper ballot voting at the
end of meeting. It was seconded, discussed and voted upon. Motion was approved by show of
hands.
A discussion was held with regards to the annual reports that were sent out in the read ahead
package.
Pastor Jeremy continued the meeting with an opening prayer.
President Johnson narrated the power point presentation of the 2020 financials and the 2021
General Operating Budget. President Johnson then asked for a motion to approve the 2021
General Operating Budget as presented. A motion was made and seconded to approve the
Budget as presented. The meeting was then opened for questions and comments. At the
conclusion of the discussion, a vote to approve the 2021 budget was held by show of hands. The
motion was approved.
The candidates for Church Council and Synod Assembly were introduced. There was a call
for additional nominations from the floor for each of the positions. Alexa Hutto’s name was
added to the list of Synod Assembly candidates for the youth position. Motions were made and
seconded to accept the proposed candidates. Votes were taken by show of hands for Synod
Assembly candidates. Motion was approved. The vote for Council Secretary and Council at
Large positions were postponed until later in the meeting to be held by paper ballot.
Continued on page 8
7
Continued from page 7 Jerry Jamison presented a synopsis of the proposed changes to the Advent Constitution and stated that other minor administrative changes had been made to the read-ahead package sent to congregation. President Johnson then asked for a motion to accept the changes as presented in the read-ahead package and the additional minor verbal administrative changes. A motion was made and seconded. The floor was opened for discussion. The vote to accept the changes was postponed until later in the meeting to be held by paper ballot. President Johnson presented an overview of the new Pastoral roles and responsibilities for Pastor Jeremy and Pastor Dave. Afterwards he asked for a motion to approve the new roles. A motion was made and seconded. The floor was opened for discussion. At the conclusion of the discussion, President Johnson summarized the topics that were being voted on by paper ballots (Council Secretary, Council Members at Large, Constitution Changes, and Pastoral Role Changes) and explained the process for face-to-face congregational members and those participating by Zoom. The voting began. Once the voting period had concluded, ballots were counted, and the results were revealed by President Johnson. Council Secretary, Jerry Jamison-Approved 93-0; Council Members at Large; Mike Kareta- Approved 94-0; Carol Wilson-Approved 92-0; Pat Ferris-Approved 92-0; Constitution Changes-Approved 91-3; Pastoral Role Changes-Approved 85-9. There being no other business, the minutes of the meeting were read. A motion was made and seconded to approve the minutes. Motion was approved by show of hands. Closing prayer was given by Pastor David Jahn. The meeting was adjourned at 2:20 PM. Respectively submitted, Jerry Jamison, Council Secretary 8
Advent’s Youth and Family Ministry
February 2021
th th BOTH
Luther
This year is looking Kids (Birth-5
a bit different, ) AND
but I am going to tryMiddle and
my best to High
do fun School
activities/ (6for
events - 12th) children and
youth while still maintaining the 6 feet apart rule and everyone will have to wear masks at these activities BUT we
will be able to see each other. Until the vaccine is not in its testing stage, we will be doing this. Once it is fully
available then I will make it highly encouraged that EVERY child and youth gets it so that we all will be safe.
With that being said, the rest of the year (2021) we will be doing a hybrid of BOTH children and youth activities/
events. I will be making the decision in late February, if BOTH children and youth are able to do Day camp and
Luther Springs camp this summer.
Please look for an email from me about the calendars for children and youth. The children’s calendar is green and
the youth’s calendar is orange. If you haven’t received a calendar and would like one, please email me, Ms. Joy, at
youthandfamily@adventlutheranbrevard.org
Stay safe and healthy!!
Blessings, Ms. Joy
Stay up to date with all things Children and Youth by
following our Instagram page!
adventlutheranyouth
Prayer and activity for Families
*Look for an email from Ms. Joy*
about more info on this
9
Family Promise of
Brevard Emerald City
5K Run Fundraiser
Advent is one of the sponsors this year for
Family Promise of Brevard 5K Run. Advent
has been in partnership with Family
Promise of Brevard from the beginning in
2013.
This fundraiser is the second part of their Thrivent Seminar:
series called “Journey Home Series-
Race 2* “It’s Been a Witch of a Year!” Economic Update
The second race in the Journey Home
series introduces
Dorothy to the
Friday, February 12
Wicked Witch. Suntree Campus:
Lack of affordable 10-11:30AM: Fellowship Hall
housing, skilled
jobs, and Melbourne Beach Campus:
opportunities for 5:30-7PM: Fellowship Hall
social mobility, are
all characterized Our ministry partner Thrivent will
by the witch, be hosting a seminar at both our
and highlight the obstacles 40% of our campuses on Friday, Feb. 12. The
community faces as they strive to reach seminar starts with a brief introduction
a stronger future. Together we can
and discussion about the 4 economic
defeat the wicked witch!
measures that most drive the
Whether you’re a world-class runner or economy. It moves on to discuss
just out for an evening stroll, participate in “power shifts” that will affect the
our family fun 5K and enjoy the evening. economy going forward, such as the
You can choose to run in-person or rollout and effectiveness of vaccines
virtually and collect the second of five and the split in legislative power.
commemorative medals in our “Journey In closing, it looks at trends going
Home” race series as well as a chance forward, at least into the next financial
to win a black diamond from our quarter. To RSVP please call Bob
partners at Wesche Jewelers! You can Patterson at 252-414-1876 or email
also volunteer with the event. Please go robert.patterson@thrivent.com by
to Family Promise of Brevard’s website February 10.
familypromiseofbrevard.org/ec2021/ to
register and/or learn how to help with this
event.
10COVID Vaccine: Melbourne Beach
Need Help and/or Men’s Breakfast and
Give Help? Bible Study
As you may have experienced getting Men’s Breakfast & Bible Study will
an appointment to receive the COVID meet Thursdays February 4th & 18th
vaccine is not the easiest thing to do. at 7:30 AM. Please bring your own
We have several people at Advent breakfast. Coffee & juice will be
who have offered to help others available. Please wear a Mask!
who are having difficulty figuring out
or getting an appointment for the Food Pantry
vaccine. If you are someone who
could use some help, please contact The Food Pantry is officially open from
our Pastors’ Assistant, Lynda, by email 5:30 to 6:30 on Thursday evenings
or at the Suntree Campus Office. at the Suntree campus, every
Also, if you are someone who wants week throughout the year, except
to help others with scheduling an Thanksgiving (and when major
appointment and/or transportation holidays fall on Thursday).
to and from appointment please also
contact Lynda.
Advent Women’s
Ministry
The Women’s Ministry meeting is
scheduled for 10 am on the first
The following people
Monday of each month, September have donated in memory
through May. Our Bible Study for of loved ones:
Women meets at 11 am, following
the meeting. Both of these events are Norma Strickland - James Cullom
held in the Education building on the
Suntree campus. Son of Corinne Schroedel -
Ron and Li Klein
Due to Covid-19, we are still unable
to be involved in most of our usual Jay Olsen - Olsen Family,
activities. The February 1st business Toni Holcomb
meeting is cancelled. The 11 am Bible
Study for Women will be held as usual William Snow - David and Ruth
at Suntree. Wherley
11Advent Lutheran Church
7550 N. Wickham Road
Melbourne, FL 32940
AND
1805 Oak Street
Melbourne Beach, FL 32951
February 2021
“We are followers of Jesus Christ
for the sake of the world.”
TELEPHONE
Suntree: 321-259-8515
Worship Services in February 2021
Melbourne Beach: 321-727-1724 SUNTREE CAMPUS
(It’s always best to call
before stopping by!) Saturday Service: 5:00 pm - Informal Traditional
Sunday Services: 9:00 am - Contemporary
E-Mail: info@adventbrevard.org 11:00 am - Traditional
Web: www.adventbrevard.org
MELBOURNE BEACH CAMPUS
STAFF
Senior Pastor: Jeremy Freye Sunday Services: 8:30 am - Traditional
Pastor of Worship & Discipleship:
David Jahn Holy Communion is offered at every service
Lead Pastor Melb. Beach & Pastoral Care:
Rick Funk
Director of Operations: Ashley Drake-Poe
Pastors’ Assistant: Lynda Herrman
FEBRUARY GOSPEL READINGS
Dir. of Youth & Family Ministry:
Joy Gemmer
February 7, 2021
Bookkeeper: Courtney McMahan Fifth Sunday after Epiphany -- John 13:31-35
Financial Secretary Katherine Andrews
Director of Choirs/Organist: February 14, 2021
Betty Jo Couch Transfiguration of Our Lord -- Mark 9:30-37
Organists: Lori Jahn
Betsy Stansifer
Accompanist: Michelle Widere February 17, 2021
Praise Band Leader: Andy Harrington Ash Wednesday -- Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21
Worship Media & Publications:
Cathy Guilford February 21, 2021
Suntree Custodian / Sexton: Tom Hawk
Melb Beach Custodian / Sexton: Rick Funk
First Sunday in Lent -- Mark 1:9-15
Melb. Beach Preschool Director:
Deb Hogan February 28, 2021
Nursery Attendants: Terry Armstrong Second Sunday in Lent -- Mark 8:31-38
Alberta-Jo Parker
Tynesha PeaconYou can also read
