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Dear Partners in Ministry,

I want to share a favorite scripture using three versions of The Bible so you can see how helpful it is to use various resources to help with interpretation.

Romans 12:2 Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds, so that you may discern what is the will of God – what is good and acceptable and perfect. NRSV

Romans 12:2 Don’t become so well-adjusted to your culture that you fit into it without even thinking. Instead, fix your attention on God. You’ll be changed from the inside out. Readily recognize what he wants from you, and quickly respond to it. Unlike the culture around you, always dragging you down to its level of immaturity, God brings the best out of you, develops well-formed maturity in you. The Message

Romans 12:2 Do not conform yourself to the standards of this world, but let God transform you inwardly by a complete change of your mind. Then you will be able to know the will of God – what is good and pleasing to him and perfect. The Good News Bible

When I prepare for a sermon, I frequently use several versions of the text. As you can see, each one sheds some light. Don’t let the culture shape you. Let God shape you and let your life be changed from the inside to see and do what is pleasing to God.

Yours in Christ,

Pastor Sue

Dear Mrs. Hladnick:

Thank you for the school supplies. The families that we see really appreciate the help you have provided. Thank you also for helping our young people to realize that sharing their blessing with others is a kindness from and to the heart. May God bless you.

(signed) Johnniest Henry [ St. John’s UCC – North Grand]

Note: VBS collected school supplies for distribution to St. John’s and Joint Neighborhood Ministries

To My St. Philip’s Family,

My heartfelt thanks to all of you during this trying time, for your support, calls, cards, visits, and especially for all your prayers. I couldn’t have made it without those prayers! God bless you all!

Ann Davis

To: The Pastor, Anniversary Committee, and Members of St. Philip’s Church

From: Glenn and Shirley Nowack

Your invitation to share in the Day of Celebration for the 50 th Anniversary of St. Philip’s Congregation was appreciated more than you will ever know. We would not have missed the opportunity to be there if at all possible.

The worship celebration in the morning, the fellowship time at the church after the worship, and the Anniversary Banquet and Program were all well planned. They will long be remembered. Also a special thanks for the complimentary tickets to the banquet and the gift of the anniversary DVD.

It was also a day for renewing lasting friendships made during our eleven and one-half years of ministry at St. Philip’s and also a time for establishing some new friendships.

As God’s Spirit has nourished St. Philip’s congregation for 50 years be assured that that same Spirit will empower you for the years to come.

Glenn and Shirley Nowack

Dear Friends:

We are very appreciative of your donation of $80.00. The level of contribution to Feed My People always seems to be lower during the summer months, but this does not change the fact that many people are still needy and do not have enough income to meet their financial obligations. We are thankful to have caring friends such as you who help us assist our clients regardless of the season.

Again, we sincerely thank you for your gift.

Yours in Christ,

(signed) Carol and John DeGuire (executive co-directors)

KEEP IN YOUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS

WOMEN’S FELLOWSHIP

Women’s Fellowship will be packaging their food items for Festival of Sharing on Tuesday, September 16 th. There is a sign-up sheet on the bulletin board if you would be able to help with this. All are welcome to join them.

 

FESTIVAL OF SHARING

Thank you for all the food items you are bringing. Many, many, people need these supplies and will greatly appreciate getting a box full of food. These items will be collected:

CHURCH DIRECTORY UPDATE

Please make the following correction in your church directory:

Janet Freese (add Ballwin, MO 63021)

LYDIA ’S HOUSE COMMUNITY MEAL

It was another wonderful outpouring of caring by the people of St. Philip’s for the ladies of Lydia’s House and their children. Thanks so much to the following people, in no particular order, who prepared and donated the food: Hilda Leonard, Shirley Nottelmann, Nancy Krenning, Virginia Hladnick, Joan Schumacher, JoAnn Leber, Lois Decker, Richelle Fischer, Pat Siewing, Kathy Shelton, Sue Leary, Frances Kalbfleisch, Dorothy Vinyard, and Carole Armistead. Thanks also to whoever made the “Luscious Lemon Pudding Cake” but didn’t add her name to the list.

Rev. Carolyn Held, Lydia’s House chaplain, wrote, “The meal was excellent. Everyone seemed to enjoy the food, and the leftovers were quickly claimed. One of the little girls (I think she’s about 2) was eating, and when her mom sat down next to her, the little girl looked at her, smiled, and said ‘Yum, yum, yum’. It was priceless.”

Again, thank you for all of your efforts to make the community meal “yummy”.

REMEMBER THE ALTAR?

A LONG TIME AGO, Nadine Saulka was looking for a home for a beautiful altar that her father, Leonard Syberg, had built. They thought it was going to the New Orleans area and we collected $137.45 toward the astronomical moving expenses. That move never happened and the altar was given to a local church which arranged the transportation itself. Sadly, in the meantime, Nadine’s dad passed away. Nadine suggested that the money we collected be given to Feed My People in Mr. Syberg’s memory since both Mr. and Mrs. Syberg had volunteered there. So that’s what was done. Your donation will be put to good use in helping your neighbors in need. See the bulletin board for the acknowledgement from Feed My People. Thank you for coming through as usual whenever there is a need.

ST. LOUIS ASSOCIATION WOMEN FALL GATHERING

Check the bulletin board for information on the fall gathering to be held at Zion UCC in Florissant on September 23. We’ll carpool, so don’t let the distance discourage you. It promises to be an interesting day with food, fellowship, and the opportunity to learn about and use Zion’s extraordinary labyrinth. The cost for the day is $10 and the deadline for registration is September 15 th.

SUNDAY SCHOOL KICK-OFF – SEPTEMBER 7 TH

“Under God’s Big Top”

Come and be “Under God’s Big Top” to begin another year of learning about God’s love, Jesus,and many people of the Bible. We begin classes on September 7th.

Join the circus after church. We will have:

Clowns A magician
Relays Face painting
Fun activities Balloons
Dog tricks Prizes
Hot dogs Funnel cakes
Popcorn Candy
and more !  

This will be such a fun day filled with good fellowship. Also, if anyone would like to teach Sunday School, or just be a helper, please call Virginia 843-3605.

Anyone who would like to help at an activity, please call Shirley, Allison, Cindy, or Virginia. We really need your help.

TOUR AT EDEN SEMINARY

On September 17 th (Wednesday), we will be going to Eden Seminary for a Chapel Service, a tour, and then lunch. We are to be there at 10 am. Plan to meet at church at 9:15 am so we can car pool.

Since you have met Doni Dreimeir-Showers at church on Sunday, you know this will be a special treat for us. Lunch is $5.50.

Please sign up on the bulletin board.

Virginia Hladnick

WORSHIP AND MUSIC COMMITTEE MEETING

The Worship and Music Committee meeting for September will be held after worship on Sunday, September 28 th. Committee members be sure to mark your calendar.

ALZHEIMER’S MEMORY WALK

Bob and Linda Kammerer will again be participating in the Alzheimer’s Memory Walk, in memory of Bob’s mom, who had Alzheimer’s. The walk will be in Forest Park on September 13, 2008. Our team name is Team Miles, and our grandson, Miles, will be “walking’ with us. If you would like to donate to this worthy cause and help find a cure for this terrible disease, please see Bob or Linda before or after church. Cash or checks made out to Alzheimer’s Association will be accepted. Thank you for any help you can give.

BRATWURST DINNER

The date for the Bratwurst Dinner has been set for Sunday, October 19 th. Mark your calendars and watch for the foods needed list which will be posted on the bulletin board in September.

 

MUSIC NOTES

Chancel Choir will begin rehearsals September 10 th at 7 pm until 8 pm. Chancel Choir will sing August 31 st and September 7 th. Will rehearse on those Sunday mornings at 9 am. This will be just a hymn or older music.

 

Children’s Choir will resume practicing after church on Sunday, September 14th- 15 minutes.

Bell Choir will resume practicing on Tuesday, September 9 th at 7pm. Shirley is planning a busy schedule for the ringers so please mark your calendar and be ready to “swing” ahead.

 

A SPECIAL NOTE TO THE CHOIR

Dear Choir Members:

We wanted to thank all of you for your many talents in the choir. Our church is so very fortunate to have all of you to contribute your music each week. We wish you continued enjoyment in filling the church with your lovely voices and beautiful music. Our sincere thanks,

(signed) George and Joyce Brand

WE HAVE A POET AMONG US

Shawn Williamson has written a very thought provoking book of poetry. It is personal and challenging and inspiring. You have a chance to read the book and then to meet with the poet for discussion. Maybe a poetry reading doesn’t sound interesting to you. I urge you to give it a try. The book, Slipping In and Out of the Light, is for sale in the church office. We will meet with Shawn and discuss the book on Sunday, September 21 st after worship. Please join us.

PRAYER AND MEDITATION SERVICES

The services for the month of September will be held on the 10 th and 24 th. Feel free to come and pray and meditate.

NEW EARTH BOOK DISCUSSION

The discussion group started Monday, August 18 th and will continue on the following dates:

We welcome all to come and join in the discussion. If you have any questions call Bob Leber at 636-296-3595.

EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER CELEBRATES 40 YEARS!

September marks the 40 th anniversary of the opening of the Early Childhood Center! A lot has changed during that time, but we are just as committed to providing quality care for the youngest members of our community now as we were then. We hope that all of you can join us in celebrating this important mission of the church! On Sunday, September 28 th, there will be a celebratory worship service. After church, you are invited to a special fellowship time in the Multi-Purpose Room. Refreshments will be served. On Monday, September 29 th, everyone is invited to join us for our 40 th Birthday Party Open House from 6:30-8:00 pm. Games, activities, cake, and entertainment for the entire family!

COMING EVENTS

September 1 Labor Day – office close
September 7 Communion Sunday
Rally Day – “Under God’s Big Top”
September 8 Bible Study Class 8:30 am
Church Council 7 pm
September 9 Bell Choir 7 pm
New Earth Book discussion 7 pm
September 10 Free Lunch – noon
Prayer and Meditation Service 6:30 pm
Choir 7 pm
September 14 Birthday Sunday
September 15 Bible Study Class 8:30 am
September 16 Women’s Fellowship
Bell Choir 7pm
September 17 Eden Seminary Tour 9:15 am
Choir 7pm
September 20 50+ Group – Service Project
September 21 Poetry Discussion after worship
September 22 Bible Study Class 8:30 am
Crier articles due
September 23 Bell Choir 7 pm
New Earth Book discussion 7 pm
September 24 Prayer and Meditation Service 6:30 pm
Choir 7 pm
September 28 Honor ECC 40th year of service
Worship and Music Comm. after worship
September 29 Bible Study Class 8:30 am
Early Childhood Center 40th Anniversary Open House 6:30 - 8 pm
September 30 Bell Choir 7 pm

COMMUNITY EVENTS (see bulletin board for more information)

Tuesday, September 2 Opening Convocation – Eden Seminary 10:30 am
Saturday September 6

St. Martin’s Dittmer – Treasure Boutique and Bakery (benefit Roof Fund)

Joint Neighborhood Ministries Trivia Night at St. John’s Mehlville 7 pm
Sunday, September 7

St. Johns EUCC – Mehlville – Spud Sunday 11:30 am – 1:30 pm
Proceeds to benefit the following food pantries:

Feed My People
Joint Neighborhood Ministry
St. John’s North Grand
Monday, September 29 Zion UCC – Florissant – “Come Walk the Path” – Labyrinth and Meditation Garden 9:30 am

 SEPTEMBER

2

 Gene Siewing

21

 George Brand
Cindy Lewis

3

 Danielle Knoll

23

 Tom Nottelmann
Dan Kelly
Tara Stevenson

4

 Rob Wodicker
Joy Lopez

25

 Brandon Rohlfing

6

 Lois Mohesky

26

 Susan Yung
Jackie Meeks
Oscar Wenk

7

 Joan Schumacher

27

 Cathy Gutjahr

8

 Jack Eason

28

 Kevin Nickel
Chris Fischer

10

 Leona Gottschlich

30

 Melba Schulz

13

 Tom Kelly
 
  

15

 Sydney Siewing
 
  

16

 Carl Meyer
 
  

20

 Rob Kammerer
Carole Armistead
 
  

LITURGISTS, USHERS, ACOLYTES AND CHILDREN’S TIME FOR SEPTEMBER

September 7 and 14

September 21 and 28

 

  • September 7 ---
  • September 14 ---
  • September 21 Sarah Witte
  • September 28 Haylee Thibodeaux

Children’s Time

FOOD FOR THOUGHT (from the Internet)

Like most elementary schools, it was typical to have a parade of students in and out of the health clinic throughout the day. We dispensed ice for bumps and bruises, Band-Aids for cuts, and liberal doses of sympathy and hugs. As principal, my office was right next door to the clinic, so I often dropped in to lend a hand and help out with the hugs. I knew that for some kids, mine might be the only one they got all day.

One morning I was putting a Band-Aid on a little girl’s scraped knee. Her blonde hair was matted, and I noticed that she was shivering in her thin little sleeveless blouse. I found her a warm sweatshirt and helped her pull it on. “Thanks for taking care of me,” she whispered as she climbed into my lap and snuggled up against me.

It wasn’t long after that when I ran across an unfamiliar lump under my arm. Cancer, an aggressively spreading kind, had already invaded thirteen of my lymph nodes. I pondered whether or not to tell the students about my diagnosis. The word breast seemed so hard to say out loud to them, and the word cancer seemed so frightening. Then it became evident that the children were going to find out one way or another, either the straight scoop from me or possibly a garbled version from someone else. I decided to tell them myself.

It wasn’t easy to get the words out, but the empathy and concern I saw in their faces as I explained it to them told me I had made the right decision. When I gave them a chance to ask questions, they mostly wanted to know how they could help. I told them that what I would like best would be their letters, pictures, and prayers. I stood by the gym door as the children solemnly filed out. My little blonde friend darted out of line and threw herself into my arms. Then she stepped back to look up into my face. “Don’t be afraid, Dr. Perry,” she said earnestly, “I know you’ll be back because now it’s our turn to take care of you.”

No one could have ever done a better job. The kids sent me off to my first chemotherapy session with a hilarious book of nausea remedies that they had written. A video of every class in the school singing get-well songs accompanied me to the next chemotherapy appointment. By the third visit, the nurses were waiting at the door to find out what I would bring next. It was a delicate music box that played “I Will Always Love You.”

Even when I went into isolation at the hospital for a bone marrow transplant, the letters and pictures kept coming until they covered every wall of my room. Then the kids traced their hands onto colored paper, cut them out and glued them together to make a freestanding rainbow of helping hands. “I feel like I’ve stepped into Disneyland every time I walk into this room,” my doctor laughed. That was even before the six-foot apple blossom tree arrived adorned with messages written on paper apples from the students and teachers. What healing comfort I found in being surrounded by these tokens of their caring.

At long last I was well enough to return to work. As I headed up the road to the school, I was suddenly overcome by doubts. What if the kids have forgotten all about me? I wondered, what if they don’t want a skinny bald principal? What if?

I caught sight of the school marquee as I rounded the bend. “Welcome Back, Dr. Perry,” it read. As I drew closer, everywhere I looked were pink ribbons –ribbons in the windows, tied on the doorknobs, even up in the trees. The children and staff wore pink ribbons, too. My blonde buddy was first in line to greet me. “You’re back, Dr. Perry, you’re back!” she called. “See, I told you we’d take care of you!” As I hugged her tight, in the back of my mind I faintly heard my music box playing……”I will always love you.”

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