Come to worship

Sunday, October 22

We celebrate Holy Communion at 8:30 a.m. and 10:45 a.m. on this Twentieth Sunday after Pentecost using the liturgy from Feast & Celebration, featuring the Cherub Choir at 8:00 a.m. and the Sanctuary Choir at 10:45 a.m. This morning at Donuts & Dialogue, we will discuss the death penalty question, and how should we respond. All are invited to the Genszler Room at 9:40 a.m.

Sunday, October 29

Reformation/Stewardship Sunday

On this Reformation Sunday we celebrate our Lutheran heritage with Holy Communion at 8:30 a.m. and 10:45 a.m. using the liturgy from Lutheran Book of Worship, Setting Two, featuring the Bell Choir at both services. And we will receive new members into membership at 10:45 a.m. Donuts & Dialogue continues its discussion on the death penalty question. Remember to turn your clocks BACK one hour!

Interim Pastor: Stewardship - Reformation Style


When Martin Luther became a monk in 1505, he did so with the sincere and deep-seated need to find a gracious God. Try as he might, he always seemed to fall short in his efforts to please God. He over-worked, over-prayed, over-scrubbed his cell, and, in good Lutheran fashion, still felt guilty about it. Through his study of the Psalms and Romans, Luther re-discovered that grace - God’s undeserved, unearned love - is at the heart of the Gospel, and is free to all who have faith. God’s grace comes to us not by our efforts, but by our faith. This discovery for Luther ran counter to the practice of the medieval church: “In consideration for the payment of a sum of money to the Church or some other virtuous act, a great deal of the punishment for one’s sins was said to be remitted, and a written certificate of this remission was provided by the Pope’s agent ( Martin Luther, by John Dillenberger, p. xx). In his 95 Theses, Luther challenged the popular practice of purchasing “indulgences” as a way of buying God’s forgiveness:

36. Any Christian whatsoever, who is truly repentant, enjoys plenary remission from penalty and guilt, and this is given him without letters of indulgence.

37. Any true Christian whatsoever, living or dead, participates in all the benefits of Christ and the Church; and this participation is granted to him by God without letters of indulgence.

Today we are no longer searching for a gracious God. We are, however, searching for gracious neighbors. Luther addresses this, too, in his 95 Theses:

43. Christians should be taught that one who gives to the poor, or lends to the needy, does a better action than if he purchases indulgences.

45. Christians should be taught that he who sees a needy person, but passes him by although he gives money for indulgences, gains no benefit from the pope’s pardon, but only incurs the wrath of God.

So, our stewardship of God’s grace is not about us at all. It is about others and how we provide for them and how we care for them and how we reach out to them and provide hospitality and hope in an ungracious world. Paul reminds us, “Think of us in this way, as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God.” (I Corinthians 4:1) Stewards are in essence servants. So, too, are we as we build a budget, as we volunteer to teach and help, as we imagine our mission in Sheboygan, in Wisconsin, in Tanzania, in the whole world.

One of my favorite definitions of stewardship is: “Everything I do after I say I believe.” Thus there is no aspect of our life that is not touched by our faith in Christ. There is no speck of our talent that is not a response to our calling as Christians. There is no portion of our income that is not pledged for the purposes of God. Our theme of “Responding Anew to God’s Grace” places before us the joyous and awesome challenge to be God’s people in this place for another day, another season, another year. May God bless your response with generosity, courage and hope.

~Pastor Sandy Jacobs

Donuts & Dialogue

The Death Penalty: How Should We Respond?  

Wisconsin voters will consider this advisory question on the November 7 ballot: “Should the death penalty be enacted in the State of Wisconsin for cases involving a person who is convicted of first-degree intentional homicide, if the conviction is supported by DNA evidence?” While the Christian tradition has much to teach us as we consider this important question, within most Wisconsin congregations opinions vary widely about the use of the death penalty. This ballot measure presents an opportunity for all of us to once again consider our faith in Jesus Christ and how that faith informs the choices we make about one of the most important public policy issues of our day.

On October 22, 29, and November 5, we will discuss the death penalty question during Donuts and Dialogue at 9:40 a.m. in the Genszler Room. We will be using a resource from the Wisconsin Council of Churches that presents both sides of the issue, enabling participants to make informed decisions before November 7. Please join us for this challenging and crucial conversation!




A Rally Day Thank you!


Thank you again to all who donated decorations, blankets, sombreros, etc. for use at VBS and Rally Day. Your items are waiting to return home with you in the church office!

New Member Workshops

If you are interested in becoming a member at First United Lutheran Church, New Member Workshops are taking place on October 22 and 29, between worship services, at 9:40 a.m. These workshops will introduce you to the ministries of First United and help us to get better acquainted with you and the gifts that you bring to this community of faith. If you missed the first workshop on October 15, please join us for the last two sessions. New members will be received during the 10:45 a.m. worship service on October 29. If you have any questions about the workshops or becoming a member at First United, please contact Pastor Gail (452-2401).

LANTERN VIGIL

The 15 th Annual Lantern Vigil for those who lost their lives because of domestic violence will take place on Monday, October 23, at the Deland Center on the Sheboygan lakefront. Those who have survived abusive relationships will also be remembered and honored. The event, including speakers and a short walk along the lake, begins at 6:30 p.m. and is sponsored by Safe Harbor Domestic Abuse Shelter.

October: Domestic Violence Awareness Month

 In you, O Lord, I have taken refuge; let me never be put to shame. Rescue me and deliver me in your righteousness - Psalm 71:1-2a

God’s desire is to protect and rescue all of God’s children. Our faith family can assist in the protection of victims of domestic abuse by learning more about this problem.

What is abuse?

* Abuse is any behavior, expressed physically or psychologically, that threatens or actually does harm to another or their property.

* Abuse is usually not a one-time occurrence.

* Abuse is minimized by the abuser and the victim.

* Abuse can occur in a cycle that escalates in severity over time.

* Abuse will continue and can result in death in the absence of intervention (seeking shelter, contacting law enforcement, etc.).

Domestic abuse is an extremely serious situation. Professionals trained in this area need to be involved. Safe Harbor Domestic Abuse Shelter is available for assistance at 920-452-7640.

Service of Remembrance

Thanksgiving and Christmas can be particularly difficult times for those who are adjusting to the death of a loved one. Wenig Funeral Homes are hosting “Holiday Service of Remembrance” to be held at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Sheboygan Falls on Sunday, November 5, at 2:00 p.m. The public is welcome.

High School Youth...

Take a trip to the

SPIEKER ’ S PUMPKIN FARM

on Sunday, October 29!

We’ll leave church at 12:00 noon and return whenever! It’s only $6 per person. Interested? Let us tell you more...

There’s a 5 acre Corn Maze and...

a Hay Ride... and...

Pumpkin Picking!

Sounds like fun? Then join us by reserving a spot by October 20 by contacting Thom in the church office at 452-2401!

Chili Supper

Our friends at St. Luke Lutheran Church in Sheboygan Falls are hosting a Chili Supper on Sunday, November 5, serving from 4:00-6:30 p.m. Price is $5 for adults and $2 for children 6-12 (under 6 are free). Proceeds will go to their Sunday School, Youth Group and Choir & special music groups of St. Luke.

FAQ’s about the Simply Giving Program

Q: Do you have to be a member of Thrivent Financial for Lutherans to participate in the Simply Giving® program?

A: No. This program is available to anyone at First United Lutheran.

Q: How does the Simply Giving® program work?

A: Your offerings are transferred electronically from your bank or credit union checking or savings account. They are deposited directly into the congregation's bank account. As a result, your contributions cannot be lost, stolen or forgotten.

Q: Are there any fees involved with the program?

A: No. There are no fees charged to individuals or churches.

Q: What is the minimum amount a person may have withdrawn for a contribution?

A: $5.

Q: Do I have to have my entire pledged amount withdrawn electronically if I want to use the Simply Giving Program?

A: No. You can specify any amount you would like to have withdrawn.

Q: How often can funds be withdrawn electronically from my account?

A: They can be withdrawn on both the 1 st and 15 th of each month or once a month on either the 1 st or 15 th of each month.

Q: Can contributions be directed to specific funds within the church?

A: Yes. Contributions can be directed to specific funds in the church.

Q: Can participants make a temporary stop payment or change the amount that is being withdrawn from an account?

A: Yes. Participants can suspend, change or stop withdrawals at any time by contacting Kori in the church office. Changes should be requested at least five business days before the transfer is scheduled to take place.

Q: Whom do I call if I have more questions about Simply Giving® or need help filling out the application?

A: Contact Kori in the church office.

Simply Giving® is a reliable, safe way to move your stewardship plan into action. It allows you to share your gifts through planned giving and activates your generosity into ongoing stewardship. Because your gift is given consistently, you won't need to play "catch-up" at year-end or worry about forgotten checkbooks or missed Sunday offerings.

But you're not the only one that benefits. Your congregation benefits from steady, more predictable revenues throughout the year, more efficient bookkeeping and greater confidence in meeting its financial commitments. Please consider the Simply Giving Program as part of your stewardship response on October 29.

Just a reminder...

When using pew envelopes, or the blue Roof Appeal envelopes, would you please remember to write your name and address on each envelope. This will ensure that your contribution is identified correctly. Thank you!

Help Is Needed at Bridgeway!

We are in need of two volunteers to help young moms at Bridgeway on the 7 th of every month. Bridgeway is a transitional housing facility located at 1251 Geele Avenue, that is run by the Sheboygan County Interfaith Organization (SCIO). Bridgeway helps women with children who are struggling financially or in other ways. First United is a member of SCIO, and has agreed to help with their evening meal program once a month. On the seventh of every month two volunteers are needed from 4:30 - 6:30 p.m. to help with this meal program. This may be helping the moms prepare, serve and clean up the evening meal, or it might be playing with the children so the mom can make dinner. The food is provided by Bridgeway, and the volunteers are invited and asked to stay for dinner to eat with the family. We need volunteers forthe next few months! Please sign up on the kiosk. Thank you!

Collecting NOW for LUTHERAN WORLD RELIEF!

Now is the time to sort through your clothes, and share what you have with people in need. The Lutheran World Relief boxcar will come to Sheboygan on Saturday, October 28, to collect clothing, quilts, various kits and other items, which are sorted and given to people throughout the world who are living in extreme poverty and need.

Please bring donated items to church by Sunday, October 22. Clothes can be new or used, but mustbeclean, unstained, and in excellent condition. Please place items in the labeled boxes in the Gathering area by the LWR display. Some of the items needed are: light and medium weight clothing for men, children and infants, and sweaters and sweatshirts for men, women and children. Health, sewing, school and layette kits, quilts and blankets are also needed. Because there are specific items LWR will accept, take-home lists of items needed are available on the kiosk and on the display table. Cash donations are also needed, and can be sent directly to: Lutheran World Relief, 390 Park Ave. S., New York, NY 10016. THANK YOU for your help!

Prayer Box Available for Prayer Requests

Do you ever want someone to pray for you, but hesitate to ask for prayer during worship on Sunday morning? Maybe you need prayer, but want to remain anonymous. Look for the white “prayer box” in the Gathering Area!

Any time you are in need of prayer, simply fill out a prayer card and put it in the prayer box. All requests will remain completely confidential, and you don’t even have to sign your name! The Grounded in Prayer Group will pray for your prayer request every week, for as long as you request.

You are also welcome to come and pray with us! We meet every Thursday from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. in the Genszler room. Please join us!

Do you know anyone who “needs” a Prayer Shawl or Lap Blanket?

Do you know anyone who is confined to their home, struggling with a long-term illness or disease, or someone who is going through a difficult time in their life? If you know of someone in our congregation, a close friend, or someone in your family that is in need of prayerful support, and you feel would appreciate a prayer shawl or lap blanket, please contact either Marilyn Froh (458-1892) or the church office (452-2401).

Mark Your Calendar!

Yes, believe it or not, it is almost time for Adopt-a-Family!! Adopt-a-Family is a yearly program we offer through which you can chose to “adopt” a needy family or individual, and purchase some much needed items for them for Christmas.

Here are some important dates for you to note:

..... November 12: Kick off Sunday

..... November 12-December 3: Names will be available for “adoption”

..... December 3: Last day to select names for “adoption” and Youth shopping 2:00-5:00 p.m.

..... December 6: Fill out Food Certificates

..... December 10: All “adopted” gifts need to be wrapped & brought to church

..... December 12: Gift wrapping 5:00-7:30 p.m. in Youth & Quilter’s rooms (for the gifts purchased by our youth)

..... December 13: Sorting of gifts

..... December 14: Delivery & Pick up of gifts

Great Beginnings “We Care” Program

Great Beginnings Preschool is currently involved with the We Care Program through Pick & Save grocery stores. We Care is a donation program which allows non-profit organizations to raise additional funds simply by shopping at Pick & Save. In order for us to benefit from this program, all you need to do is use your Advantage Saver’s Club Card and designate the Great Beginnings Preschool identification number with your card. This can easily be done at the customer service counter. Our ID number is: 292900. Thanks for helping our preschool program grow!

We have so much fun!

The Great Beginnings children are off to a great start this school year learning while still having lots and lots of fun. This month the kids and teachers have been getting ready for the Open House which was held October 12. A pumpkin farm trip is also planned for later this month.

Great Beginnings still has openings for three and four year olds. The preschool is also accepting children as soon as they turn three years old. If you would like more information on our wonderful preschool program, please contact Cindy or Mary in the church office.

The search is on...

The Youth & Family Committee is looking to expand and add more people to our list of committee members. This committee meets on All Committee Night and its focus is on the Sunday School and Confirmation programs and activities for the youth of our congregation, and helps out with all the events and classes of First United. If you are interested in the youth of our congregation, especially the Middle and High School youth, please contact Mary Gorges or Thom Nicla for more information.

4 Star Rotation Sunday School Teachers Needed

We are looking for adults and leaders to help teach the different classrooms for Four-Star Sunday School. The four rooms this year are:

• Food
• Arts & Crafts
• Games
• Musics, Movies or Science

If you have a desire to help out our youth on a short term basis, this program is for you! Sessions only last two-three weeks each. For more information, see the sign-up sheet in the Gathering Area, or contact Mary Gorges.

Turn bank your call

An extra hour of sleep!!

On Saturday evening, October 28, remember to set your clocks BACK ONE HOUR before you go to bed and enjoy your extra hour of sleep!

Dining Out Group

There’s still time to join the Dining Out group, who are planning to dine out at Pine Lodge, a rustic country restaurant just west of Sheboygan Falls on County Highway C, on Saturday, October 21, at 6:30 p.m. It will be a great evening of relaxation, good food, and great conversation with your First United friends. Sign up on the kiosk in the Gathering Area, or call the church office at 452-2401. Need a ride? We’ll help make a transportation connection!

Good News Deadline

The deadline for the next issue of the Good News is Monday, October 23. This issue will be in homes by November 1. Please submit your article/s in written form and mail or bring to the church office, or email to office@firstuni.org. Thank you!

What to expect on October 29
Stewardship Sunday

• Upon arriving at church, pick up your stewardship response form and envelope included with your church bulletin.
• Please bring it into worship with you.
• Fill out the form indicating your giving response for 2007, having prayerfully considered what percentage of your income resources you are returning to our Lord through this church.
• Seal your giving response in the enclosed envelope.
• Place your Giving Response envelope in the basket as you come forward during the offering.

Thank you for making your commitment.

You are encouraged to consider giving your offerings by EFT (Electronic Funds Transfer) from your checking or savings account or by credit card. The Simply Giving form is on the back of your pledge form. If you’re interested in EFT, but do not have your financial information available to you in worship, then complete and return to the church office later. Additional forms can be requested from an usher.

If you have any questions, contact Kori in the church office.

VILs!!

Thanksgiving Feast in November

You are invited to usher in the holiday season by dining together at City Streets Restaurant on Monday, November 13, at 12:00 noon. There will be a Thanksgiving feast, pie and entertainment! The cost is just $13 per person. Please call the church office at 452-2401 to make your reservation.

There is also a waiting list for the up-coming Fireside Christmas Show on December 6, leaving church at 8:00 a.m. If you’d like to add your name to this list, please sign up in the church office as soon as possible. The cost is $69 per person

Lakeshore Chorale Concert

On Saturday, October 21, at 7:30 p.m., at Trinity Lutheran Church, 824 Wisconsin Avenue, Sheboygan, the Lakeshore Chorale presents American composer Aaron Copland’s “In the Beginning,” featuring guest soloist, Karen Quicker. Three other pieces by Copland will be included in the program and the Lakeshore Youth Chorale will make their first appearance of the season. Tickets are $14 for adults; $12 for seniors; $7 for students, and are available from Chorale members, at the door, or by phoning 451-1863.