Immanuel United Church of Christ July 2010

Fred’s Frazes…

“For freedom Christ has set us free. Stand firm, therefore, and do

not submit again to a yoke of slavery.” - Galatians 5:1

Those of you who were in church Sunday will recall that the above scripture was used as one of the readings in our worship service and sermon. I mentioned the fact that it would have been a perfect reading for this coming Sunday, which is the 4 th of July, or Freedom and Democracy Sunday. On the other hand, it’s always appropriate to remind ourselves that we are a free people. In our particular situation as citizens of the United States of America, we have freedoms that other people in other countries do not have, including choosing our leaders at all levels. As members of Immanuel United Church of Christ, we have the freedom to call our pastors, own our property and interpret the Bible in light of tradition, history and conscience. As people of God we are free to acknowledge our dependence on God or not. And as human beings we are free to choose between doing good or bad. The apostle Paul realized that we have this struggle between good and evil, light and darkness, the fruits of the spirit and the desires of the flesh, etc. It seems to come down to choices, and we are free to choose between those things that are truly liberating or those that that enslave us.

This past Sunday I was glad to see that a group of our church kids chose to go to church camp. It was so gratifying to see the kids all excited, the parents so supportive and the counselors and staff so well prepared and trained. A couple of weeks ago I was glad to see that several of our members chose to have Music Camp again. Over 50 kids were here having fun, learning Bible stories and singing praises to God

In a couple of weeks there will be a congregational meeting (July 11) for the purpose of choosing whether or not we will build a new parking lot behind the Education Building. I’m so glad that several of our members chose to be a part of a Search Committee that has been at work for a couple of months. Now they are finally at a point where the position of Immanuel’s Senior Minister can be posted and ministerial profiles received so that eventually you can choose who will be your next Senior Minister.

I could go on and on, but I think you get the picture. Certainly, as we approach the celebration of our country’s founding, we can give thanks to God for the freedoms we enjoy. But as Christians it’s always appropriate for us to give thanks that God has given us the freedom to choose whether or not we will follow His Son. And I hope you choose to come to church this Sunday – see you there!

CONGREGATIONAL MEETING

At the Semi-Annual meeting of the congregation held last Sunday, June 27, the congregation voted to have a congregational meeting on July 11 for the purpose of voting on paving the back parking lot. By that time we will have all of our bids in and be able to make a decision. It was decided to move as soon as possible to take advantage of today’s costs, which are likely to increase in the coming months.  

JUNE ATTENDANCE  

June 06 - 164

June 13 - 171

June 20 - 137

June 27 - 123

DATES TO REMEMBER

July 5 th Office Closed for Independence Day Holiday

July 6 th – Aug 10 Fire Proof “Love Dare” Bible Study @ 7:00pm

July 11 th Spaghetti Lunch Mission Trip Fundraiser @ 11:15am

July 12-16 Community VBS @ Immanuel

July 17-24 Mission Trip

August 23 NISD First Day of School

THE LOVE DARE BIBLE STUDY

Based on the movie, “Fireproof”

Please make plans to join us for a very special Bible Study. The “Love Dare” Bible Study is based on the movie “Fireproof” and is an in-depth approach to “fireproofing” your relationship. We will have our first meeting on Tuesday, June 29 th @ 7pm to introduce the material and to plan further meetings. Bruce and Becky Oberhoff will be facilitating the meetings. The class will meet one night a week with a movie clip, discussion and “homework”. At the conclusion of the Bible Study (approximately 6 weeks) we will view the movie in its entirety. The cost for this Bible Study is $10.00 which will cover the cost of the book. We have a few books in the church office and can acquire more if necessary. We’re looking forward to seeing you in class! Shay will provide the popcorn and pickles!!!

CONSISTORY HIGHLIGHTS

The Consistory met on Monday, June 14th with 10 members present. Absent were Mark Evans, Clint Mikeska, Bruce Oberhoff and Nancy Urbanek. Pastor Banda and Garrett Arrington were also present.

The treasurer reported the bank balance as of 5-31-10 was $2,063.39. Reports were submitted by Pastor Banda and Shay Meyer. A six month review of Shay Meyer will be conducted by Pastor Banda, Carol Gerken and Suzanne Mikeska.

Activities reported by various committees included: repairs in restroom in kindergarten hallway, mulch spread on front flower beds and holes filled in with dirt on street side of Fellowshp Hall by Property Committee; Worship/Evangelism looking at pulpit supply on July 18 & August 1; Pastor Banda’s last Sunday to be Sept. 12 with remainder of month accrued vacation time; Cemetery Committee suggested a suitable space for cemetery sign; Christian Education is gearing up for VBS and spaghetti dinner fundraiser on July 11 th to benefit Mission Trip; Search Committee finalizing Ministerial Profile and scheduling a meeting with Conference Minister and Bobby Zwahr will ask for volunteers to fill an Interim Minister Search Committee.

In Old Business there was action on dumpster trash collection change and A/C Maintnance agreement; proposed parking lot was discussed noting that permit from Tx. Dept. of Licensing & Regulation needed 30 days prior to start of construction; consistory approved letting out bids.

In New Business the audit committee of Kellly Dunk and Gayle Horak needs to do audit; Scouts will mulch flower beds on July 17 th and Consistory approved Kyle Dunk’s Eagle Scout project of concrete cross with flagpole on site close to Fellowship Hall; it was suggested that Leaps & Bounds report to Consistory monthly or quarterly; salary range of new minister was approved at $65,000 to $85,000; Consistory approved renewing Cemetery fund CD as well as paying cost of new mixer of sound system from Building Fund and computer purchase from Memorial Fund.

Building requests were approved and in Wider Mission approval given for $1,000 to Mission & Outreach. Pastor Banda then closed the meeting in prayer. (Complete and officially approved minutes of this meeting will be available after the July Consistory meeting.)

BROTHERHOOD

Immanuel’s Brotherhood met on Thursday, June 17 th at Schulze’s Barbeque. The men in attendance decided that we have a better attendance at our dinner meetings and that it would be good to continue in that manner. For the time being, Schulze’s has provided the most convenient place where we can meet, eat, and conduct our business and fellowship. So plan to come join us for food, fellowship and inspiration on Thursday, July 17 TH , 6:30 pm at Shultze’s Barbeque in Rosenberg.

IMMANUEL’S WOMEN’S GUILD  

The Immanuel’s Women’s Guild met on Friday, June 18, 2010 with 18 members present. Olie Eixmann gave the program opening with several verses of two hymns, “Help Somebody Today” and “Give of Your Best to the Master”. This being Stewardship month she read us two stores about giving. The first, “The Good You Do, Returns to You”, the other, “When You Give, You Will Receive”. The work you do stays with you. We should give with no strings attached. She ended with “Here I Come, Talented or Not”, which was very funny.

President Richter called the meeting to order. Minutes were read and approved. The Treasurer’s report was given by Erna Thielemann. Erna told us the Kroger receipts were in. Ruby Gerken turned in a bill from the Senior Citizen’s Social.

Old Business: Erna Thielemann asked for the Brassware to be checked if it needed cleaning.

New Business: Ruby Poncik made and delivered 25 bibs to the SPJST Nursing Home. Erna Thielemann explained about the Kroger Plus Cards. Once you have yours scanned you can pass your sheet to someone else. The amount of money we receive from Kroger has to be used to help someone. Viola Fuchs mentioned when we give to Eden’s Seminary we should ask that it go to Jacqueline Lamensky as she will enroll in July. It will be discussed more at our next meeting as we decide where the money will go.

A birthday hymn was sung for Yvonne Huegel and for Leola Schmidt who will be 95 years old on June 26. An anniversary hymn was sung for Janice and Frank Pryor and for over 60 years, Rudy and Doris Paweleck.

Prayer concerns were for Van and Lee Ann Weidegardner, Dave and Tammy Miller, Leda Oler, Alvin and Ruby Lee Oberhoff, Calvin and Joyce Lamensky, Roy and Barbara Steffen, Elizabeth Kalisek, Carol Bosse and Cindy Bernshausen. Peggy Heidemann sent a Thank You for prayers offered for her loved one.

The meeting was closed by joining of hands and singing “Blessed Be The Tie That Binds” and praying “The Lord’s Prayer”.

Refreshments were served by Ora Lee Lamensky and Jeanette Balcerowicz.

SUNDAY SCHOOL PERFECT ATTENDANCE

SEPT 13 thru MAY 30, 2010

Congratulations to

Hailey Leus and Aaron Volz

who were married on June 26, 2010

BAPTISMS

Cash Timothy Raska

Baptized June 13, 2010

Parents: Chase & Amanda (Todd) Raska

Kelsey Lauren Chumchal

Baptized June 20, 2010

Parents: Jeff & Cyndi (Schultz) Chumchal

July Birthdays

JULY ANNIVERSARIES

2 Michael & Debbie Altimore

4 Tom & Janice Nowak

6 Clinton & Suzanne Mikeska

Frank & Caroline Macik

Robert & Sandra Eversole

7 Brett & Christy Legendre

Ronald & Irene Otto

Sydney & Sandra Beard

9 James & Roxy Graeber

Joseph & Brandi Schwaiger

11 Chris & Nedra Dostal

12 Steve & Kathy Cook

14 David & Bridget Goodbread

15 Charles & Diana Altimore

19 David & Tammera Miller

23 Breck & Lil Sacra

25 Glynn & Bernice Schmidt

W. Lee & Barbara Schmidt

26 Curtis & Patricia Bishop

James & Harriet Karnei

27 Heath & Clarissa Zatopek

28 Christopher & Susan Marecka

29 Van & Leighann Wedegartner, Jr.

Youth Postings - July 2010

*** Mission & More has been postponed until August ***

Music Camp - 4 year olds to 12years

Music Camp was awesome! Debbie Mahlman and Carol Gerken put together a wonderful camp! Please, give them a pat on the back and two thumbs up. Way to go!  

During the week of June 7-11, 55 campers enjoyed a week of music, crafts, and recreation at Music Camp. The theme this year was “Treasure Hunting for Jesus” and featured daily treasure hunts for clues. The campers entertained the senior citizens prior to their meal on Friday with three of their songs. A musical program of 11 songs that the campers learned was presented on Friday night. The campers decorated their own t-shirts with treasure maps. The camp was under the direction of Debbie Mahlmann and Carol Gerken.

VBS:  

• 4 – 12 year olds, please join us for VBS July 12 th-16 th for High Seas fun and adventure!
• Registration and helper forms are available now. Please pick yours up at the church office.
• 6 th grade and up, we could use some help with VBS this year. If you are interested in being a part of VBS by working in the rooms with younger kids, music, recreation, etc. please see me or Stacey Schodek to find out where you fit in and fill out a helper form. We are especially in need of high school age youth (or older) to organize and execute the outside games/recreation time. If you or anyone you know is interested, please get with us as quickly as you can. Thanks so much!
• We are in need of some more cookies for our cookie day which is Tuesday, July 13 th. Thanks so much!  

Mission Trip:  

We will be hosting a Spaghetti Lunch Fundraiser to help with the cost of our Mission Trip. It will be held on Sunday, July 11 th immediately following worship. Tickets are in the church office and will be sold Sunday’s before and after church including that day, but don’t wait unless you have to. Advance notice would be most helpful for planning purposes.

July 17 th – July 23 rd, 2010. $125 is total deposit due for mission trip. (There will be a few more costs involved such as meals while traveling). This mission trip is for 8 th graders up unless a parent participates with a younger aged child. Our main fundraiser is the spaghetti dinner, so please start selling those tickets. Also in the works is a Fiesta dinner. Kelly Dunk has been working on this to try and get them out here again. More details will be out as soon as I get them.  

Sunday School:  

Even though it seems far away at the moment, now is the time to be considering where your gifts may lay for next year’s Sunday School lineup. Please know that you are vital and needed to keep our Sunday school going at the highest level. I promise you it is not necessary to be a bible scholar. The only requirements are a love of Christ, a love for children and the dedication to fulfill the months you sign up for. (We always work with schedule conflicts).  

Eighter’s Camp:

June 27 th – July 3 rd. We will have an awesome time! If you would like to send some goodies to the camp, to an individual camper or to our IUCC group of 7 kiddos, here is some helpful info:

Feel free to send goodies and notes. A letter will take 2-3 days, a package takes about a week, a priority package takes 2 days.  Please plan accordingly if you would like for your camper to receive anything while away.  PLEASE…no chocolate or melty type stuff.  All food they get must be consumed by themselves or shared and not saved so please send only what they will eat right then or enough for their group, church, or whole camp and indicate so in the letter or note.  It doesn’t have to be food so keep that in mind as well.  Last I heard there will be 44 campers in the whole camp. This means 4 groups of 11 campers. Keep in mind that any packages received after camp disbands will not be returned. Our campers this year are…Kelsey Dixon, Makenzie Raesner, Chase Miller, Lauren Archer, Shae Blazier, Micah Sykora and Mikayla Kramer.

Happy Independence Day!

Love, Shay-Shay

Questions or comments? shay@meyerranch.net or (832) 595-4028. Feedback always welcome. Thanks!

Alternate contacts: FaceBook: Shay Prestridge Meyer / Twitter: buttercupshay / (979) 793-7656 home

SPAGHETTI DINNER FUNDRAISER

FOR IMMANUEL MISSION TRIP  

We will be having a Spaghetti Dinner following morning worship on Sunday, July 11 th in order to help with the upcoming Mission Trip. You may purchase tickets ahead of time

for $8 a plate. Most people will probably want to eat in, though we will serve you in plates that can be taken out. You will also be able to purchase your dinner on the day of the fundraiser. Members can help by attending and by inviting your friends and neighbors. Also, we will be providing a simple dessert; so those of you who are so good at making the desserts at our Open Marketplace are being asked and encouraged to provide some desserts. We’re looking for brownies, cookies, unfrosted cake, etc. that can be cut and placed in a small zip-lock baggies to go with each plate.

Make plans to attend – and remember, its proceeds are going to a great cause!

WHAT: Spaghetti Dinner

WHEN: Sunday, July 11 th following Morning Worship

WHERE: Immanuel’s Fellowship Hall

PURPOSE: To raise funds for Mission Trip

SPECIAL NEEDS: Your attendance & dessert donations

COST: $8.00

SUMMER MISSION TRIP

We have a group of volunteers from Immanuel who will be going on a Mission Trip to the Rio Grande Valley this month. They will be leaving from the church on Saturday, July 17 th and returning on Friday, July 23 rd. Our goal is to build two casitas in Matamoros, Mexico. Presently, two foundations are being poured and lumber and materials will be ordered and in place for our group when they arrive. We’ve been in constant touch with the Good Samaritan Ministries, where dozens of groups have been volunteering on both sides of the United States/Mexico border and there have been no problems with groups entering and leaving Mexico. We will be staying at the Bayview facilities of Good Samaritan Ministries and working with their staff. Each participant is paying a nominal registration fee to cover food and housing. The cost for materials and pouring of the slab for each casita is $3,000, and we’re glad to report that donations and budgeted line items have recently reached our needed minimum of $6,000.

There are other costs involved, including gasoline, use of the van at Southwest Good Samaritan Ministries and various building supplies. Your donations to the Mission Trip are still needed and appreciated! Also, we will be having a spaghetti dinner fundraiser following worship on Sunday, July 11 th. Information on that is below.

Thank you for your generous support and keep us in your prayers July 17 th – July 23 rd.

SUMMER WORD JUMBLES

Unscramble the first four words in each set of jumbles. Then use the circled letters to unscramble the final word. Some of the words may unscramble into more than one word, but only one word is related to the puzzle.