KIDS’ CONNECTION is a time for 3-year-olds through 2nd grade students to connect after the Children’s Message. Children will participate in the first part of the worship service, head to Kids’ Connection, then return to the Divine Service when the offering is received so that they may participate in a blessing at Holy Communion as well as the close of the service.

FRESH BREW BIBLE STUDY meets at 7:30 a.m. The current topic is a book study of C.S. Lewis, The Screwtape Letters. 

SUNDAY EDUCATION HOUR

9:45-10:45 a.m.

v  Nursery is staffed for young children

v  Sunday School is a place for kids preschool through sixth grade

v  Holy Huddle is a powerful hour for seventh grade through high school

v  Pastor’s Bible Study and Roaming through the Bible are great groups for adults

SUNDAY SCHOOL at St. Paul Lutheran Church is a wonderful environment for children to grow in their faith alongside their friends. Children are connected to God’s Word and get to the heart of each Bible teaching. Crafts and games give students a hands-on way to highlight the Bible story message. Bring your children, 3-years-old through 6^th grade, down to the basement classrooms for an hour of Bible stories, songs, crafts, and fun.

TODAY IN SUNDAY SCHOOL, students study the account “Paul Sails for Rome.” As Christ was with Paul and His companions, so He is with me, holding me up, keeping me with Him in the ship of the Church, and casting all my sins into the depths of the sea. Parents could ask, “Who and what did God use to keep Paul safe? How does God keep us safely with Himself?”

HOLY HUDDLE is a time for 7-12 grade students to find how God’s Word continues to speak in their lives and how they have been called by God for His holy purposes. Holy Huddle meets in the Activity Center.

ADULT STUDY OPTIONS @ EDUCATION HOUR

TWELVE ORDINARY MEN This group begins this week a study called Twelve Ordinary Men.

TAKE, EAT! TAKE, DRINK! Join Pastor Gaertner in a study on the Lord’s Supper.

MONDAY WOMEN’S BIBLE STUDY is currently studying “Acts”. We continue our study in Acts 9-10. Join us tomorrow or any Monday at 11 a.m.

MEN OF INTEGRITY, Saturdays at 8:30 a.m. Connect with guys that aren’t afraid to be Christians. Our current topic: “Who Am I? What Am I Doing Here? Rolls, donuts, coffee, and juice are provided.

ELDERS MEETING – This Tuesday the Elders of St. Paul will meet at 7pm in the Activity Center.

FLOWERS ON THE ALTAR this morning are from Chris Kelly in memory of Karl Kelly.

GLUTEN FREE communion wafers are now available. Inform Pastor Gaertner prior to the service so that we can accommodate your needs.

HEY YOU! Do you enjoy writing? Does taking pictures make you happy? If you answered YES to either question you should volunteer to help with our freshly designed and super cool newsletter! Not only would you be doing something that you enjoy (like writing or taking pictures) you will also work with fun and amazing people like Elise Blackney, Pastor Gaertner, and Mike Hausch. If the thought of doing cool stuff with awesome people sounds like something you want to be a part of, contact the church office at (810) 231-1033 or stpaul@stpaulhamburg.com. Seriously. You know you want to.

EAGLE SCOUT PROJECT My name is Connor O’Brien. I am an Eagle Scout candidate of Boy Scout troop 391 and my project is the installation of a fence to prevent the local deer from eating the food the garden produces. The cost of the project is approximately $1000 and while I am working directly with several fundraising efforts, any donations would be appreciated. You may use the envelope in the pew and clearly mark it for the GARDEN FENCE or use the specially marked envelopes in the church entrance. Thank you in advance for your support of my efforts. Boy Scout, Connor O’Brien

URGENT- If you know that you are planning to join the St. Paul Playgoers for Wicked on July 8 at 6:30 p.m. at the Wharton Center in Lansing, but have not signed up yet because you are not sure of how many tickets you will need, please go ahead and write your name and contact info on the sign-up sheet on the Playgoers bulletin board. Indicate how many tickets you might need (example, 2-3). There are some non-members waiting in the wings to hear if there are tickets available once members have had sufficient time to sign up. Tickets are $63.50 each. Simply place your check, with “Wicked” written on the memo line, in the offering plate. Any questions, contact Cindy Elowsky, celowsky@charter.net or 810-231-3851.

LOVE IN THE NAME OF CHRIST WOMEN’S CAREER BOUTIQUE Help support Love INC’s newest ministry housed at Living Stone Church in Brighton. The Boutique is seeking Plus-size donations (size 16 and up) of clean business suits and professional clothing. Call Love INC at (517) 552-3630 or contact Living Stone Church at (810) 227-4073.

BEDDING MINISTRY Are you cleaning out your linen closets? St. Agnes Catholic Church in Fowlerville is looking for donations of King, Full, and Twin size comforters, Queen sheets, and towels. The donated items will go to Love In the Name of Christ. To find out how you can assist this Love INC ministry, call (517) 552-3816 or contact St. Agnes at (517) 223-9740.

DAISY’S PANTRY

How awesome are your deeds!

Psalms 66:3

How awesome indeed!

This week we were the recipients of 2 postal food drives.  We received 126 pounds from the Hamburg post office and 2,093 pounds from Pinckney. What a joy! Our shelves are overflowing at this point but we still count on your generosity. Please donate any and all items and place them in the cart located by the pantry door. If you know of someone who is in need of food, have them call Love INC at (517)552-3620 to set an appointment to shop at St. Paul. Our pantry is open on Wednesdays from 2:00 to 6:00 pm by appointment through Love INC. If you are a member of St. Paul and in need of assistance, please call Arlene Wiltse to set up an appointment.

BIBLE READING PROGRAM FOR THE WEEK OF May 20 – May 26. It is a good idea to develop a habit of regularly reading God’s Word. To help develop that habit, we suggest you use the daily Bible reading guide from the Lutheran Service Book. Daily Readings for this week:

   5/20    Numbers 14:1-25                                 Luke 18:18-34

   5/21    Numbers14:26-45                               Luke18:35-19:10

   5/22    Numbers 16:1-22                                 Luke 19:11-28

   5/23    Numbers16:23-40                               Luke 19:29-48

   5/24    Numbers 16:41-17:13                         Luke 20:1-18

   5/25    Numbers20:1-21                                  Luke 20:19-44

   5/26    Numbers 20:22-21:9                           Luke20:45-21:19

COFFEEHOUSE - a time for friendship, fun and feasting on physical and spiritual food Sunday evenings for 7-12 grade students, 5 – 6:15 p.m.

SENIOR HIGH YOUTH are going to play LASER TAG on Sunday, May 20 – that’s today. Meet at church at 2:00 pm. Come and have some fun with Laser Tag. The cost is $15.00. The newly confirmed are welcome to join us.

IMAC (5th and 6th Graders) A Service Project and a Games Tournament, on Sunday, May 27, starting at 2:00 pm – We are going to check out what’s new in the Activity Center: Pool, Air Hockey, Foosball and Ping Pong. We will also plant flowers around the church to beautify the facility and give glory to God. Come and join in the service, fun and prizes.

INK CARTRIDGES – yes we are still collecting them – ink jet, laser, all types. Please place them in the container located by the windows near the ladies restroom. We are now taking advantage of Staples’ rebate offer and are able to purchase paper and other needed office supplies with the earned dollars.

EXCEL IN GIVING is a free electronic funds transfer service that enables you to make automatic contributions regularly. With Excel in Giving, it becomes easier for individuals to honor their stewardship commitments and further God’s work in the world. The enrollment process is simple. enrollment brochures are available in the tract rack in the Small Fellowship Hall.

OUR SAVIOR EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN SCHOOL OFFERS AN OPEN HOUSE TODAY, Sunday, May 20 from 12:30pm-2:30pm. At the open house you can discover how this school has a fervent zeal for Christian education. To learn more about Our Savior Lutheran Church & School, call 248-887-3836 or visit the website at www.oursaviorhartland.org

BOY SCOUT TROOP 391 GOLF OUTING: Saturday, June 9, 2012 at Rush Lake Hills Golf Club. 4 person scramble with a shotgun start at 9 a.m. $70 per person / $280 per team. For additional information call Cindy or Carl (734) 878-4651 cmontalvo4651@charter.net. All proceeds from this benefit support troop 391. There are fliers up on the bulletin board in the small fellowship hall.

MEMORIAL DAY 5K AND 1 MILE KID’S FUN RUN- Is on May 28^th and starts at Peoples Church 500 W Main St, Pinckney, MI. The 1 Mile Kid’s Fun Run will start and finish at the church and begins at 8:30 a.m.. The 5K race will start at 9 a.m. at Peoples Church, run through the streets of Pinckney, along the Lakeland Trail, and finish in downtown Pinckney. The entry fee is $8 for the Kid’s Run and $20 for the 5K if you register before May 21. Proceeds from this event will benefit Love INC of the Greater Livingston Area and their efforts to support the homeless in Livingston County. Registration and more information available at peoplesefc.org or call (734) 878-3407.

Calendar for May 20 – May 27, 2012

Sun: 5/20    7:30am    Fresh Brew Bible Study

                      8:30 & 11:00am Worship Service

                      9:45am    Education Hour

                      9:45am    Sunday School Verse Practice

                   11:00am    Recognition of 2012 Graduates

                    11:00am    Kids’ Connection

                    12:30pm    Bootcamp/Walking

                      2:00pm    Laser Tag(Senior High)

                      5:00pm    Coffeehouse

Mon: 5/21   9:00am    Quilters

                   11:00am    Women’s Bible Study

                   12:30pm    Love Knots

                      7:00pm    Leadership Team Meeting

Tues: 5/22   7:30am    Kiwanis

                      9:00am    OldTimers

                      6:30pm    Scouts

                      7:00pm    Elders Meeting (Activity Center)

Wed: 5/23   7:00pm    AA Meeting

Sat: 5/26      8:30am    Men’s Bible Study

                   10:30am    AA/Alanon

Sun: 5/27    9:45am    Sunday School Verse Practice

                      2:00pm    IMAC Games and Planting

Readings for May 27

Ezekiel 37:1-14

Acts 2:1-21

John 15:26-27; 16:4b-15

People in Action at St. Paul

Worship Attendance May 13: 260

General Fund May offerings:        $9,912

KIDS’ CONNECTION is a time for 3-year-olds through 2nd grade students to connect after the Children’s Message. Children will participate in the first part of the worship service, head to Kids’ Connection, then return to the Divine Service when the offering is received so that they may participate in a blessing at Holy Communion as well as the close of the service.

 BIBLE STUDIES

FRESH BREW BIBLE STUDY meets at 7:30 a.m. The current topic is a book study of C.S. Lewis, The Screwtape Letters. 

SUNDAY EDUCATION HOUR

9:45-10:45 a.m.

v  Nursery is staffed for young children

v  Sunday School is a place for kids preschool through sixth grade

v  Holy Huddle is a powerful hour for seventh grade through high school

v  Pastor’s Bible Study and Roaming through the Bible are great groups for adults

SUNDAY SCHOOL at St. Paul Lutheran Church is a wonderful environment for children to grow in their faith alongside their friends. Children are connected to God’s Word and get to the heart of each Bible teaching. Crafts and games give students a hands-on way to highlight the Bible story message. Bring your children, 3-years-old through 6^th grade, down to the basement classrooms for an hour of Bible stories, songs, crafts, and fun.

TODAY IN SUNDAY SCHOOL, The lesson focus is the account of Paul and Silas in prison. Just as God freed Paul and Silas from prison, granting them life out of death, so Christ by his crucifixion and resurrection frees us from the prison of our sins and grants us life eternal. Questions for discussion include: “How is this event more than just a story about Paul’s escape from prison?” and “How has God rescued us from the prison of sin?”

HOLY HUDDLE is a time for 7-12 grade students to find how God’s Word continues to speak in their lives and how they have been called by God for His holy purposes. Holy Huddle meets in the Activity Center.

ADULT STUDY OPTIONS @ EDUCATION HOUR

TWELVE ORDINARY MEN This group begins this week a study called Twelve Ordinary Men.

TAKE, EAT! TAKE, DRINK! Join Pastor Gaertner in a study on the Lord’s Supper.

MONDAY WOMEN’S BIBLE STUDY is currently studying “Acts”. We continue our study in Acts 7-8. Join us tomorrow or any Monday at 11 a.m.

MEN OF INTEGRITY, Saturdays at 8:30 a.m. Connect with guys that aren’t afraid to be Christians. Rolls, donuts, coffee, and juice are provided.

FLOWERS ON THE ALTAR this morning are from Gary Banas in memory of Raymond and Ruth Banas.

GLUTEN FREE communion wafers are now available. Inform Pastor Gaertner prior to the service so that we can accommodate your needs.

HEY YOU! Do you enjoy writing? Does taking pictures make you happy? If you answered YES to either question you should volunteer to help with our freshly designed and super cool newsletter! Not only would you be doing something that you enjoy (like writing or taking pictures) you will also work with fun and amazing people like Elise Blackney, Pastor Gaertner, and Mike Hausch. If the thought of doing cool stuff with awesome people sounds like something you want to be a part of, contact the church office at (810) 231-1033 or stpaul@stpaulhamburg.com. Seriously. You know you want to.

EAGLE SCOUT PROJECT will be here at St. Paul. My name is Connor O’Brien. I am an Eagle Scout candidate of Boy Scout troop 391 and my project is the installation of a fence to prevent the local deer from eating the people food the garden produces. The cost of the project is approximately $1000 and while I am working directly with several fundraising efforts, any donations would be appreciated. You may use the envelope in the pew and clearly mark it for the GARDEN FENCE or use the specially marked envelopes in the church entrance. Thank you in advance for your support of my efforts. Boy Scout, Connor O’Brien

ASCENSION DAY At 5pm on May 17 our congregation will join together to share in some good food at a chicken barbecue. At 7pm we will join together at worship and hear the good news that our savior Jesus Christ has ascended to heaven and sits at the right hand of the Father Almighty. We have not marched through the streets with banners and flooded the bulletins with inserts to announce this barbecue and worship service. So even though you have not seen a bunch of inserts or posters about this barbecue and worship service, still I think you should plan to be here. It will be a wonderfully good meal and time spent in God’s Word. Cost for barbecue tickets is $5 for adults and $3 for kids. Come celebrate our Lord’s ascension with food, friends, and fellowship!

 SPECIAL THANKS to the family of St. Paul for the thoughts and prayers for John from the Meadows family. Test results were good.

 URGENT- If you know that you are planning to join the St. Paul Playgoers for Wicked on July 8 at 6:30 p.m. at the Wharton Center in Lansing, but have not signed up yet because you are not sure of how many tickets you will need, please go ahead and write your name and contact info on the sign-up sheet on the Playgoers bulletin board. Indicate how many tickets you might need (example, 2-3). There are some non-members waiting in the wings to hear if there are tickets available once members have had sufficient time to sign up. Tickets are $63.50 each. Simply place your check, with “Wicked” written on the memo line, in the offering plate. Any questions, contact Cindy Elowsky, celowsky@charter.net or 810-231-3851.

LOVE IN THE NAME OF CHRIST WOMEN’S CAREER BOUTIQUE Help support Love INC’s newest ministry housed at Living Stone Church in Brighton. The Boutique is seeking Plus-size donations (size 16 and up) of clean business suits and professional clothing. Call Love INC at (517) 552-3630 or contact Living Stone Church at (810) 227-4073.

BEDDING MINISTRY Are you cleaning out your linen closets? St. Agnes Catholic Church in Fowlerville is looking for donations of King, Full, and Twin size comforters, Queen sheets, and towels. The donated items will go to Love In the Name of Christ. To find out how you can assist this Love INC ministry, call (517) 552-3816 or contact St. Agnes at (517) 223-9740.

DAISY’S PANTRY

And whoever gives one of these little ones even a cup of cold water…he will by no means lose his reward.   Matthew 10:42

If you haven’t peeked in our pantry lately, please do so. We are well stocked with food and other necessities to help those who are presently needy. In April we purchased food and have received generous donations from our congregation, St. Stephen’s congregation plus Gleaners, Kroger and Hamburg Library. This has resulted in 1,952 pounds of food. We have helped 20 families consisting of 64 individuals with 2,156 pounds of necessities. Our volunteers eagerly help shop with clients, stock and clean our pantry, but without YOU to support and pray for this ministry, we would not be able to serve as God would have us do.

If you know of someone who is in need of food, have them call Love INC at (517) 552-3620 to set an appointment to shop at St. Paul. Our pantry is open on Wednesdays from 2-6 p.m by appointment through Love INC. If you are a member of St. Paul and in need of assistance, please call Arlene Wiltse to set up an appointment.

Pantry needs at this time are Jiffy mixes, jello, pasta and rice sides crackers and spices. These items may be placed in the cart located by the pantry door.

COFFEEHOUSE - a time for friendship, fun and feasting on physical and spiritual food Sunday evenings for 7-12 grade students, 5 – 6:15 p.m.

CONFIRMATION ORIENTATION for the 2012-13 school year will take place on Monday evening, May 14, at 7 p.m. This orientation is for all students who have not completed Confirmation instruction. Normally Youth Confirmation instruction takes places during the 7^th and 8^th grade years in school. We would ask that all students attend along with at least one parent. In the recent past this orientation has taken place in August shortly before the classes begin. We believe this will give families a better opportunity to get these important class dates on their family calendar.

BIBLE READING PROGRAM FOR THE WEEK OF May 13 – May 19. It is a good idea to develop a habit of regularly reading God’s Word. To help develop that habit, we suggest you use the daily Bible reading guide from the Lutheran Service Book. Daily Readings for this week:

   5/13    Numbers 3:1-16, 39-48                      Luke 14:25–15:10

   5/14    Numbers 8:5-26                                   Luke 15:11-32

   5/15    Numbers 9:1-23                                   Luke 16:1-18

   5/16    Numbers 10:11-36                               Luke16:19-31

   5/17    Numbers11:1-23, 31-35                      Luke 17:1-19

   5/18    Numbers 11:24-29; 12:1-16               Luke 17:20-37

   5/19    Numbers13:1-3,17-33                         Luke 18:1-17

INK CARTRIDGES – yes we are still collecting them – ink jet, laser, all types. Please place them in the container located by the windows near the ladies restroom. We are now taking advantage of Staples’ rebate offer and are able to purchase paper and other needed office supplies with the earned dollars.

EXCEL IN GIVING is a free electronic funds transfer service that enables you to make automatic contributions regularly. With Excel in Giving, it becomes easier for individuals to honor their stewardship commitments and further God’s work in the world. The enrollment process is simple. enrollment brochures are available in the tract rack in the Small Fellowship Hall.

CREATING LASTING FAMILY CONNECTIONS, an evidence-based substance abuse prevention program, will be available for parents of adolescents beginning May 16. Classes will be offered in Fowlerville in the evening and Howell during the day at no charge. This class is a valuable resource for parents concerned about the increased use of K-2 and other illicit and dangerous substances. This eight-week course is offered by the Livingston Community Prevention Project, funded by Washtenaw Community Health Organization. Please call LACASA at (866) 522-2725 to register. See flyer on bulletin board in the fellowship hall for more information.

BOY SCOUT TROOP 391 GOLF OUTING: Saturday, June 9, 2012 at Rush Lake Hills Golf Club. 4 person scramble with a shotgun start at 9 a.m. $70 per person / $280 per team. For additional information call Cindy or Carl (734) 878-4651 cmontalvo4651@charter.net. All proceeds from this benefit support troop 391. There are fliers up on the bulletin board in the small fellowship hall.

MEMORIAL DAY 5K AND 1 MILE KID’S FUN RUN- Is on May 28^th and starts at Peoples Church 500 W Main St, Pinckney, MI. The 1 Mile Kid’s Fun Run will start and finish at the church and begins at 8:30 a.m.. The 5K race will start at 9 a.m. at Peoples Church, run through the streets of Pinckney, along the Lakeland Trail, and finish in downtown Pinckney. The entry fee is $8 for the Kid’s Run and $20 for the 5K if you register before May 21. Proceeds from this event will benefit Love INC of the Greater Livingston Area and their efforts to support the homeless in Livingston County. Registration and more information available at peoplesefc.org or call (734) 878-3407.

Calendar for May 13 – May 20, 2012

Sun: 5/13    7:30am    Fresh Brew Bible Study

                      8:30 & 11:00am Worship Service

                      9:45am    Education Hour

                    11:00am    Kids’ Connection

                    12:30pm    Bootcamp/Walking

                      5:00pm    Coffeehouse

Mon: 5/14   9:00am    Quilters

                   11:00am    Women’s Bible Study

                      7:00pm    Confirmation Orientation

Tues: 5/15   7:30am    Kiwanis

                      9:00am    OldTimers

                      6:30pm    Scouts

Wed: 5/16   7:00pm    AA Meeting

Thur: 5/17   5:00pm    BBQ

                      7:00pm    Ascension Day Service

Fri: 5/18                         Garage Sale

Sat: 5/19      8:30am    Men’s Bible Study

                   10:30am    AA/Alanon

                                        Garage Sale

Sun: 5/20    8:30 & 11:00am Worship Service

                   11:00am    Graduate Recognition

Readings for May 20

Acts 1:12-26,

1 John 5:9-15,

John 17:11b-19

People in Action at St. Paul

Worship Attendance May 6: 348

General Fund May offerings:        $9,912

 KIDS’ CONNECTION is a time for 3-year-olds through 2nd grade students to connect after the Children’s Message. Children will participate in the first part of the worship service, head to Kids’ Connection, then return to the Divine Service when the offering is received so that they may participate in a blessing at Holy Communion as well as the close of the service.

 BIBLE STUDIES

FRESH BREW BIBLE STUDY begins a new topic! We begin a book study of “The Screwtape Letters” by C.S. Lewis. Fresh Brew meets every Sunday, 7:30 -8:15 am.

SUNDAY EDUCATION HOUR

9:45-10:45 a.m.

v  Nursery is staffed for young children

v  Sunday School is a place for kids preschool through sixth grade

v  Holy Huddle is a powerful hour for seventh grade through high school

v  Pastor’s Bible Study and Roaming through the Bible are a great groups for adults

SUNDAY SCHOOL at St. Paul Lutheran Church is a wonderful environment for children to grow in their faith alongside their friends. Children are connected to God’s Word and get to the heart of each Bible teaching. Crafts and games give students a hands-on way to highlight the Bible story message. Bring your children, 3-years-old through 6^th grade, down to the basement classrooms for an hour of Bible stories, songs, crafts, and fun.

 TODAY IN SUNDAY SCHOOL students study the story of “Lydia”. Just as God worked His miracle beside the river, clothing Lydia with Christ in Baptism, so God works His miracles in pulpits and fonts around the world today, destroying the work of Satan, ripping believers from the jaws of death, washing away sins in water tinged with Jesus’ blood, and clothing believers with His righteousness. Parents could ask, “How did God use water to save Lydia and us? Who does God use to reveal His Word to us today?”

HOLY HUDDLE is a time for 7-12 grade students to find how God’s Word continues to speak in their lives and how they have been called by God for His holy purposes. Holy Huddle meets in the Activity Center.

ADULT STUDY OPTIONS @ EDUCATION HOUR

ROAMING THROUGH THE BIBLE we help each other understand what God is saying to us. Each week is a complete unit. We meet in the lower level in Sunday School Room 4. This discussion is led by Ted Richardson. Everyone is welcome.

-       Get ready! On May 13 this group begins a study called Twelve Ordinary Men.

TAKE, EAT! TAKE, DRINK! This week Pastor Gaertner continues a study on the Lord’s Supper.

MONDAY WOMEN’S BIBLE STUDY is currently studying “Acts”. We continue our study in Acts 8. Join us tomorrow or any Monday at 11 a.m.

MEN OF INTEGRITY, Saturdays at 8:30 a.m. Connect with guys that aren’t afraid to be Christians. Rolls, donuts, coffee, and juice are provided.

GLORY TO GOD for our youth confirmands who give witness today to the promises of their baptism:

                Taylor Payge Beloskur, Psalm 55:22

                Andrew Gaston Beutler, Romans 1:16

                Ellis Eric Beutler, John 14:6

                Christopher Allen Childress, Ephesians 2:8–9

                Austin Douglas Edward Foley, Isaiah 41:10

                Blake Aaron Lapum, Psalm 27:1

                Tiffani Vivian Laughton, Joshua 1:9

                Justine Nicole Lindquist, Philippians 4:4–5

                Christian Edward Prielipp-Falzone, 1 Peter 3:15

                Elizabeth Nicole Strong, Jeremiah 29:11

                Austin James Wicker, Colossians 3:17

GLUTEN FREE communion wafers are available. Inform Pastor Gaertner prior to the service so that we can accommodate your needs.

MAKE AN IMPACT WITH YOUR SPIRITUAL GIFTS! It is no fun feeling like a square peg trying to fit into a round hole. Go online and take our spiritual gifts assessment. After you take the assessment the results will be shared with Sheri Falzone. She will help you identify where you can make an impact with your gifts. Visit stpaulhamburg.com/ministries/volunteer-ministry to take the assessment.

HEY YOU! Do you enjoy writing? Does taking pictures make you happy? If you answered YES to either question you should volunteer to help with our freshly designed and super cool newsletter! Not only would you be doing something that you enjoy (like writing or taking pictures) you will also work with fun and amazing people like Elise Blackney, Pastor Gaertner, and Mike Hausch. If the thought of doing cool stuff with awesome people sounds like something you want to be a part of, contact the church office at (810) 231-1033 or stpaul@stpaulhamburg.com. Seriously. You know you want to.

TORNADO RELIEF TEAM in action this week. Two adults and 6 college students are on the ground in southern Indiana providing help for people affected by a series of March 2 tornados. Volunteers are Elise Blackney, Marissa Elwart, Mike Hausch, Bob Holvenstot, Casey Holvenstot, Peter Holvenstot, Erich Laux and Shawn White. Pray for their safety, helpful service to our neighbor in need and the opportunity to share the hope we have in Christ Jesus.

URGENT- If you know that you are planning to join the St. Paul Playgoers for Wicked on July 8 at 6:30 p.m. at the Wharton Center in Lansing, but have not signed up yet because you are not sure of how many tickets you will need, please go ahead and write your name and contact info on the sign-up sheet on the Playgoers bulletin board. Indicate how many tickets you might need (example, 2-3). There are some non-members waiting in the wings to hear if there are tickets available once members have had sufficient time to sign up. Tickets are $63.50 each. Simply place your check, with “Wicked” written on the memo line, in the offering plate. Any questions, contact Cindy Elowsky, celowsky@charter.net or 810-231-3851.

LOVE IN THE NAME OF CHRIST WOMEN’S CAREER BOUTIQUE Help support Love INC’s newest ministry housed at Living Stone Church in Brighton. The Boutique is seeking Plus-size donations (size 16 and up) of clean business suits and professional clothing. Call Love INC at (517) 552-3630 or contact Living Stone Church at (810) 227-4073.

BEDDING MINISTRY Are you cleaning out your linen closets? St. Agnes Catholic Church in Fowlerville is looking for donations of King, Full, and Twin size comforters, Queen sheets, and towels. The donated items will go to Love In the Name of Christ. To find out how you can assist this Love INC ministry, call (517) 552-3816 or contact St. Agnes at (517) 223-9740.

DAISY’S PANTRY

And whoever gives one of these little ones even a cup of cold water…he will by no means lose his reward.   Matthew 10:42

If you haven’t peeked in our pantry lately, please do so. We are well stocked with food and other necessities to help those who are presently needy. In April we purchased food and have received generous donations from our congregation, St. Stephen’s congregation plus Gleaners, Kroger and Hamburg Library. This has resulted in 1,952 pounds of food. We have helped 20 families consisting of 64 individuals with 2,156 pounds of necessities. Our volunteers eagerly help shop with clients, stock and clean our pantry, but without YOU to support and pray for this ministry, we would not be able to serve as God would have us do.

If you know of someone who is in need of food, have them call Love INC at (517) 552-3620 to set an appointment to shop at St. Paul. Our pantry is open on Wednesdays from 2- 6 p.m by appointment through Love INC. If you are a member of St. Paul and in need of assistance, please call Arlene Wiltse to set up an appointment.

Pantry needs at this time are Jiffy mixes, jello, pasta and rice sides crackers and spices. These items may be placed in the cart located by the pantry door.

COFFEEHOUSE - a time for friendship, fun and feasting on physical and spiritual food Sunday evenings for 7-12 grade students, 5 – 6:15 p.m.

CONFIRMATION ORIENTATION for the 2012-13 school year will take place on Monday evening, May 14, at 7 p.m. This orientation is for all students who have not completed Confirmation instruction. Normally Youth Confirmation instruction takes places during the 7^th and 8^th grade years in school. We would ask that all students attend along with at least one parent. In the recent past this orientation has taken place in August shortly before the classes begin. We believe this will give families a better opportunity to get these important class dates on their family calendar.

BIBLE READING PROGRAM FOR THE WEEK OF May 6 – May 12. It is a good idea to develop a habit of regularly reading God’s Word. To help develop that habit, we suggest you use the daily Bible reading guide from the Lutheran Service Book. Daily Readings for this week:

    5/6     Leviticus 20:1-16, 22-27                     Luke 11:37-54

    5/7     Leviticus 21:1-24                                  Luke 12:1-12

    5/8     Leviticus 23:1-22                                  Luke 12:13-34

    5/9     Leviticus 23:23-44                                Luke 12:35-53

    5/10   Leviticus 24:1-23                                  Luke 12:54–13:17

    5/11   Leviticus 26:1-20                                  Luke 13:18-35

    5/12   Leviticus 26:21-33, 39-44                   Luke 14:1-24

INK CARTRIDGES – yes we are still collecting them – ink jet, laser, all types. Please place them in the container located by the windows near the ladies restroom. We are now taking advantage of Staples’ rebate offer and are able to purchase paper and other needed office supplies with the earned dollars.

EXCEL IN GIVING is a free electronic funds transfer service that enables you to make automatic contributions regularly. With Excel in Giving, it becomes easier for individuals to honor their stewardship commitments and further God’s work in the world. The enrollment process is simple. enrollment brochures are available in the tract rack in the Small Fellowship Hall.

CREATING LASTING FAMILY CONNECTIONS, an evidence-based substance abuse prevention program, will be available for parents of adolescents beginning May 16. Classes will be offered in Fowlerville in the evening and Howell during the day at no charge. This class is a valuable resource for parents concerned about the increased use of K-2 and other illicit and dangerous substances. This eight-week course is offered by the Livingston Community Prevention Project, funded by Washtenaw Community Health Organization. Please call LACASA at (866) 522-2725 to register. See flyer on bulletin board in the fellowship hall for more information.

SING BOYS! Sing On Boy Choir of Ann Arbor celebrates their 25th Anniversary Reunion Concert on Saturday, May 12 at 8 p.m. There will be a reception at Concordia Chapel following the performance. The event is free but donations are gratefully accepted.

BOY SCOUT TROOP 391 GOLF OUTING: Saturday, June 9, 2012 at Rush Lake Hills Golf Club. 4 person scramble with a shotgun start at 9 a.m. $70 per person / $280 per team. For additional information call Cindy or Carl (734) 878-4651 cmontalvo4651@charter.net. All proceeds from this benefit support troop 391. There are fliers up on the bulletin board in the small fellowship hall.

MEMORIAL DAY 5K AND 1 MILE KID’S FUN RUN- Is on May 28^th and starts at Peoples Church 500 W Main St, Pinckney, MI. The 1 Mile Kid’s Fun Run will start and finish at the church and begins at 8:30 a.m.. The 5K race will start at 9 a.m. at Peoples Church, run through the streets of Pinckney, along the Lakeland Trail, and finish in downtown Pinckney. The entry fee is $8 for the Kid’s Run and $20 for the 5K if you register before May 21. Proceeds from this event will benefit Love INC of the Greater Livingston Area and their efforts to support the homeless in Livingston County. Registration and more information available at peoplesefc.org or call (734) 878-3407.

LOCKS FOR LONNIE SUMMARY Thanks to the combined efforts of the Concordia University community, St. Paul Lutheran Church, Trinity Lutheran Church and Thrivent Financial for Lutherans $9200.29 was raised to help Lonnie and Amy Maurer with living expenses and medical bills. Thanks to all who prayed and participated. The winners were:

                Overall: Family Life Ministry (The hair styling was given to Amy Maurer.)

                Spiritual Life and Resident Assistants (Their representative also received a complimentary hair styling.)

                The Losers were the football team (Three football players at Concordia now have haircuts that match Lonnie’s look.)  

Calendar for May 6 – May 13, 2012

Sun: 5/6       7:30am    Fresh Brew Bible Study

                      8:30 & 11:00am Worship Service

                      9:45am    Education Hour

                    11:00am    Confirmation

                    11:00am    Kids’ Connection

                    12:30pm    Bootcamp/Walking

                      5:00pm    Coffeehouse

Mon: 5/7      9:00am    Quilters

                   11:00am    Women’s Bible Study

                      7:00pm    FIT Meeting

Tues: 5/8     7:30am    Kiwanis

                      9:00am    OldTimers

                      6:30pm    Scouts

Wed: 5/9      7:00pm    AA Meeting

Sat: 5/12      8:30am    Men’s Bible Study

                   10:30am    AA/Alanon

Sun: 5/13    8:30 & 11:00am Worship Service

Readings for May 13

Acts 10:34-48, 1 John5:1-8, John 15:9-17

People in Action at St. Paul

Worship Attendance April 29: 264

Sunday School:  26 Staff:5

General Fund April offerings:       $42,438

KIDS’ CONNECTION is a time for 3-year-olds through 2nd grade students to connect after the Children’s Message. Children will participate in the first part of the worship service, head to Kids’ Connection, then return to the Divine Service when the offering is received so that they may participate in a blessing at Holy Communion as well as the close of the service.

FRESH BREW BIBLE STUDY meets again next week at 7:30 a.m. “The Lutheran Difference: Priesthood and Ministry.”

SUNDAY EDUCATION HOUR

9:45-10:45 a.m.

v  Nursery is staffed for young children

v  Sunday School is a place for kids preschool through sixth grade

v  Holy Huddle is a powerful hour for seventh grade through high school

v  Pastor’s Bible Study and Roaming through the Bible are a great groups for adults

SUNDAY SCHOOL at St. Paul Lutheran Church is a wonderful environment for children to grow in their faith alongside their friends. Children are connected to God’s Word and get to the heart of each Bible teaching. Crafts and games give students a hands-on way to highlight the Bible story message. Bring your children, 3-years-old through 6^th grade, down to the basement classrooms for an hour of Bible stories, songs, crafts, and fun.

TODAY IN SUNDAY SCHOOL, The story of “Paul and Timothy” serves as the lesson focus. Just as many in Paul’s day thought, we think we must do something to be saved. Yet the answer is always Jesus, Jesus, only Jesus, whose resurrection from the dead sealed our salvation and absolved the world. Questions for discussion include “How are you like Timothy?” and “How are we saved from our sin?”

HOLY HUDDLE is a time for 7-12 grade students to find how God’s Word continues to speak in their lives and how they have been called by God for His holy purposes. Holy Huddle meets in the Activity Center.

ADULT STUDY OPTIONS @ EDUCATION HOUR

ROAMING THROUGH THE BIBLE we help each other understand what God is saying to us. Each week is a complete unit. We meet in the lower level in Sunday School Room 4. This discussion is led by Ted Richardson. Everyone is welcome.

-       Get ready! On May 13 this group begins a study called Twelve Ordinary Men.

TAKE, EAT! TAKE, DRINK! This week Pastor Gaertner begins a study on the Lord’s Supper.

MONDAY WOMEN’S BIBLE STUDY is currently studying “Acts”. We continue our study in Acts 7-8. Join us tomorrow or any Monday at 11 a.m.

MEN OF INTEGRITY, Saturdays at 8:30 a.m. Connect with guys that aren’t afraid to be Christians. Rolls, donuts, coffee, and juice are provided.

FLOWERS ON THE ALTAR this morning are in honor of Leonard and Jane Lewandowski celebrating their 50^th wedding anniversary.

VICARAGE ASSIGNMENT: Our congregation has requested to receive a vicar for the 2012-2013 academic year. The vicarage year is a year of internship for a student preparing to become a pastor. The assignment of vicars will take place May 1.

The assignment of vicarages and internships for Concordia Seminary in St. Louis, Missouri will happen on May 1 at 4:00 p.m. The worship service with assignments can be viewed online at http://callday.csl.edu.

If St. Paul Lutheran Church does not receive a vicar from Concordia Seminary in St. Louis, we may receive a vicar from Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Their worship service with the assignment of vicarages and internships can be viewed online on May 1 at 7:00 p.m. at http://ctsfw.edu.

If you happen to be in St. Louis or Fort Wayne next Tuesday, consider attending these services. It is a wonderful experience to see how God is at work preparing these men for the Office of the Holy Ministry.

I have been informed that several congregations that requested a vicar may not receive the placement of vicar. Please pray for the seminaries and colleges of our Church and for all these men that are preparing to enter into the Office of the Holy Ministry. 

GLUTEN FREE communion wafers are now available. Inform Pastor Gaertner prior to the service so that we can accommodate your needs.

MAKE AN IMPACT WITH YOUR SPIRITUAL GIFTS! It is no fun feeling like a square peg trying to fit into a round hole. Go online and take our spiritual gifts assessment. After you take the assessment the results will be shared with Sheri Falzone. She will help you identify where you can make an impact with your gifts. Visit stpaulhamburg.com/ministries/volunteer-ministry to take the assessment.

ATTENTION ALL WRITERS- We are currently seeking columnists who wish to contribute their writing skills for our monthly newsletter. No experience with news reporting needed! All ages accepted! If you enjoy writing and would like to see your words in print please contact the church office at stpaul@stpaulhamburg.com or (810) 231-1033.

F4YF – The next Fellowship for Young Families event will be on May 5, at the Brighton Rollerama from 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. There is open skate that day from 1 p.m. – 7 p.m. if you want to come early or stay later. There is a large rink for the more experience skaters and a small rink for younger and beginner skaters. Skate rental is $2 and $5 for speed skates or roller blades. Hope to see you all there!

ST. PAUL PLAYGOERS- We are going to see Wicked on Sunday, July 8 at 6:30 p.m. at the Wharton Center in Lansing. Twenty-five tickets have been reserved for the St. Paul Playgoers. The deadline to reserve YOUR ticket is May 27. Don’t wait until the last minute! The sign-up sheet is on the Playgoer bulletin board in the Fellowship Hall. Tickets are $63.50 each. Simply place your check, with “Wicked” written on the memo line, in the offering plate. Any questions, contact Cindy Elowsky, celowsky@charter.net or 810-231-3851.

LOVE IN THE NAME OF CHRIST WOMEN’S CAREER BOUTIQUE Help support Love INC’s newest ministry housed at Living Stone Church in Brighton. The Boutique is seeking Plus-size donations (size 16 and up) of clean business suits and professional clothing. Call Love INC at (517) 552-3630 or contact Living Stone Church at (810) 227-4073.

BEDDING MINISTRY Are you cleaning out your linen closets? St. Agnes Catholic Church in Fowlerville is looking for donations of King, Full, and Twin size comforters, Queen sheets, and towels. The donated items will go to Love In the Name of Christ. To find out how you can assist this Love INC ministry, call (517) 552-3816 or contact St. Agnes at (517) 223-9740.

DAISY’S PANTRY

Remind the people….to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good, …to be peaceable and considerate, and to show true humility toward all men.     Titus 3:1

Goodness and mercy continues to flow to those in need in our community because of the obedience by members of St. Stephens and St. Paul to God’s call to be considerate to others. The continued generous donations from Kroger and Gleaners help to carry out our mission. During the month of March a total of 3,296 pounds of food was donated or purchased, and Daisy’s Pantry was able to distribute 2,215 pounds of food and other necessities to 18 families (65 individuals).

If you know of someone who is in need of food, have them call Love INC (517) 552-3620. The pantry is open on Wednesdays from 2 – 6 pm. by appointment through Love INC. If you are a member of St. Paul, you may call Arlene Wiltse to set up an appointment.

Pantry needs at this time include flour, crackers, mayo/Miracle Whip, boxed potatoes, pasta sides, pepper, and spices. All items may be placed in the cart located by the pantry door.

COFFEEHOUSE - a time for friendship, fun and feasting on physical and spiritual food Sunday evenings for 7-12 grade students, 5 – 6:15 p.m.

IMAC LASER TAG TODAY We will meet right after church, have lunch and then have some fun with laser tag. The cost is $15. We will return to church by 3 pm.

CONFIRMATION – Youth Confirmation classes finish for the spring today at 6:30-8:00 p.m. Please pray for the catechumens of St. Paul. Throughout this week these young people will have interviews with Pastor Gaertner and Mike Hausch. Next week eleven young people will confirm their Christian faith.

CONFIRMATION ORIENTATION for the 2012-13 school year will take place on Monday evening, May 14, at 7:00 pm. This orientation is for all students who have not completed Confirmation instruction. Normally Youth Confirmation instruction takes places during the 7^th and 8^th grade years in school. We would ask that all students attend along with at least one parent. In the recent past this orientation has taken place in August shortly before the classes begin. We believe this will give families a better opportunity to get these important class dates on their family calendar.  

BIBLE READING PROGRAM FOR THE WEEK OF April 29 – May 5. It is a good idea to develop a habit of regularly reading God’s Word. To help develop that habit, we suggest you use the daily Bible reading guide from the Lutheran Service Book. Daily Readings for this week:

    4/29     Leviticus 8:1-13, 30-36                     Luke 9:1-17

    4/30     Leviticus 9:1-24                                  Luke 9:18-36

    5/1       Leviticus 10:1-20                                Luke9:37-62

    5/2       Leviticus 16:1-24                                Luke 10:1-22

    5/3       Leviticus 17:1-16                                Luke 10:23-42

    5/4       Leviticus 18:1-7, 20-19.8                   Luke 11:1-13

    5/5       Leviticus   19:9-18, 26-37                 Luke 11:14-36

INK CARTRIDGES – yes we are still collecting them – ink jet, laser, all types. Please place them in the container located by the windows near the ladies restroom. We are now taking advantage of Staples’ rebate offer and are able to purchase paper and other needed office supplies with the earned dollars.

EXCEL IN GIVING is a free electronic funds transfer service that enables you to make automatic contributions regularly. With Excel in Giving, it becomes easier for individuals to honor their stewardship commitments and further God’s work in the world. The enrollment process is simple. enrollment brochures are available in the tract rack in the Small Fellowship Hall.

SING BOYS! Sing On Boy Choir of Ann Arbor celebrates their 25th Anniversary Reunion Concert on Saturday, May 12 at 8 p.m. There will be a reception at Concordia Chapel following the performance. The event is free but donations are gratefully accepted.

FIRST ANNUAL GOLF OUTING FUNDRAISER – LOVE Inc will host the event on Saturday, May 5 at Chemung Hills golf club 3125 Golf Club Rd Howell 48843. Registration begins at 8 a.m. and the cost is $100/golfer. The price includes 18 holes, cart, lunch at the Turn, dinner & prizes. Hole sponsorship is $75. Please turn in sign-up sheet and/or hole sponsorship by April 28^th. For more information contact Nick Harwood at (734) 277-3316 or nicholasjharwood@gmail.com.

BOY SCOUT TROOP 391 GOLF OUTING: Saturday, June 9, 2012 at Rush Lake Hills Golf Club. 4 person scramble with a shotgun start at 9 a.m. $70 per person / $280 per team. For additional information call Cindy or Carl (734) 878-4651 cmontalvo4651@charter.net. All proceeds from this benefit support troop 391. There are fliers up on the bulletin board in the small fellowship hall.

CELEBRATION OF LIFE Pregnancy Helpline’s Annual Fundraising Event to be held on Thursday, May 3 6:30-9:00 p.m. at Brighton Church of the Nazarene 7669 Brighton Rd. Dr. Alveda King (niece of Dr. Martin Luther King) will be the Keynote Speaker. Tickets are $25. Includes famous appetizer and dessert buffet, and a personal “Thank You” from a Mom that your support helped. Call Pregnancy Helpline (810) 494-5433 to order tickets.

Calendar for April 29 – May 6, 2012

Sun: 4/29    7:30am    Fresh Brew Bible Study

                      8:30 & 11:00am Worship Service

                      9:45am    Education Hour

                    11:00am    Kids’ Connection

                    12:30pm    Bootcamp/Walking

                      2:00pm    IMAC Laser Tag

                      5:00pm    Coffeehouse

                      6:30pm    Confirmation Class

Mon: 4/30   9:00am    Quilters

                   11:00am    Women’s Bible Study

Tues: 5/1     7:30am    Kiwanis

                      9:00am    OldTimers

                      6:30pm    Scouts

Wed: 5/2      7:00pm    AA Meeting

Thur: 5/3      9:00am    Hymn Selection

Sat: 5/5        8:30am    Men’s Bible Study

                   10:30am    AA/Alanon

                      2:00pm    F4YF Rollerama

Sun: 5/6       8:30 & 11:00am Worship Service

Readings for May 6

Acts 8:26-40, 1 John 4:1-11, John 15:1-8

People in Action at St. Paul

Worship Attendance April 22: 278

Sunday School:  23 Staff: 5

General Fund April offerings:       $35,858

12 May Good News Newsletter

KIDS’ CONNECTION is a time for 3-year-olds through 2nd grade students to connect after the Children’s Message. Children will participate in the first part of the worship service, head to Kids’ Connection, then return to the Divine Service when the offering is received so that they may participate in a blessing at Holy Communion as well as the close of the service.

E-NEWS: It is time for you to sign up to receive the weekly Connecting to St. Paul E-News. Have you felt annoyed that you didn’t know what was going on until the event was already over? Go to stpaulhamburg.com/whoweare/enews and sign up to join our emailing lists.

FRESH BREW BIBLE STUDY meets again next week at 7:30 a.m. “The Lutheran Difference: Priesthood and Ministry.”

SUNDAY EDUCATION HOUR

9:45-10:45 a.m.

v  Nursery is staffed for young children

v  Sunday School is a place for kids preschool through sixth grade

v  Holy Huddle is a powerful hour for seventh grade through high school

v  Pastor’s Bible Study and Roaming through the Bible are a great groups for adults

SUNDAY SCHOOL at St. Paul Lutheran Church is a wonderful environment for children to grow in their faith alongside their friends. Children are connected to God’s Word and get to the heart of each Bible teaching. Crafts and games give students a hands-on way to highlight the Bible story message. Bring your children, 3-years-old through 6^th grade, down to the basement classrooms for an hour of Bible stories, songs, crafts, and fun.

TODAY IN SUNDAY SCHOOL, students learn the story of “Paul’s First Missionary Journey.” Just as God sent Paul and Barnabas to spread the Gospel, so today He sends pastors to preach the Gospel, baptize, and feed Jesus’ body and blood to His children, against whom the gates of hell cannot prevail. Consider discussing, “Who gave Paul directions on where to travel? What was Paul’s message?”

HOLY HUDDLE is a time for 7-12 grade students to find how God’s Word continues to speak in their lives and how they have been called by God for His holy purposes. Holy Huddle meets in the Activity Center.

ADULT STUDY OPTIONS @ EDUCATION HOUR

ROAMING THROUGH THE BIBLE we help each other understand what God is saying to us. Each week is a complete unit. We meet in the lower level in Sunday School Room 4. This discussion is led by Ted Richardson. Everyone is welcome.

-       Get ready! On May 13 this group begins a study called Twelve Ordinary Men.

TAKE, EAT! TAKE, DRINK! This week Pastor Gaertner begins a study on the Lord’s Supper.

MONDAY WOMEN’S BIBLE STUDY is currently studying “Acts”. We continue our study in Acts 6-7. Join us tomorrow or any Monday at 11:00 a.m.

MEN OF INTEGRITY, Saturdays at 8:30 a.m. Connect with guys that aren’t afraid to be Christians. Rolls, donuts, coffee, and juice are provided.

GLUTEN FREE communion wafers are now available. Inform Pastor Gaertner prior to the service so that we can accommodate your needs.

MAKE AN IMPACT WITH YOUR SPIRITUAL GIFTS! It is no fun feeling like a square peg trying to fit into a round hole. Go online and take our spiritual gifts assessment. After you take the assessment the results will be shared with Sheri Falzone. She will help you identify where you can make an impact with your gifts. Visit stpaulhamburg.com/ministries/volunteer-ministry to take the assessment.

ATTENTION ALL WRITERS- We are currently seeking columnists who wish to contribute their writing skills for our monthly newsletter. No experience with news reporting needed! All ages accepted! If you enjoy writing and would like to see your words in print please contact the church office at stpaul@stpaulhamburg.com or (810) 231-1033.

LABOR OF LOVE: A county wide effort to help our neighbor in need is Saturday April 28. We have been assigned to assist an older person in our community with minor home repair, window washing and yard clean up. Contact Mike to volunteer at 810-923-8166 or mike@stpaulhamburg.com. We will meet at our church at 8:30 am on Saturday, April 28.

CAN YOU LOAN A WHEELCHAIR? A lightweight transport wheelchair is needed. Please call Shelly Swartz (810-220-0861) if you know of one that can she can borrow from 5/1 – 5/17.

F4YF – The next Fellowship for Young Families event will be on May 5, at the Brighton Rollerama from 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. There is open skate that day from 1 p.m. – 7 p.m. if you want to come early or stay later. There is a large rink for the more experience skaters and a small rink for younger and beginner skaters. Skate rental is $2 and $5 for speed skates or roller blades. Hope to see you all there!

ST. PAUL PLAYGOERS- We are going to see Wicked on Sunday, July 8 at 6:30 p.m. at the Wharton Center in Lansing. Twenty-five tickets have been reserved for the St. Paul Playgoers. The deadline to reserve YOUR ticket is May 27. Don’t wait until the last minute! The sign-up sheet is on the Playgoer bulletin board in the Fellowship Hall. Tickets are $63.50 each. Simply place your check, with “Wicked” written on the memo line, in the offering plate. Any questions, contact Cindy Elowsky, celowsky@charter.net or 810-231-3851.

LOVE IN THE NAME OF CHRIST WOMEN’S CAREER BOUTIQUE Help support Love INC’s newest ministry housed at Living Stone Church in Brighton. The Boutique is seeking Plus-size donations (size 16 and up) of clean business suits and professional clothing. Call Love INC at (517) 552-3630 or contact Living Stone Church at (810) 227-4073.

BEDDING MINISTRY Are you cleaning out your linen closets? St. Agnes Catholic Church in Fowlerville is looking for donations of King, Full, and Twin size comforters, Queen sheets, and towels. The donated items will go to Love In the Name of Christ. To find out how you can assist this Love INC ministry, call (517) 552-3816 or contact St. Agnes at (517) 223-9740.

DAISY’S PANTRY

Remind the people….to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good, …to be peaceable and considerate, and to show true humility toward all men.     Titus 3:1

Goodness and mercy continues to flow to those in need in our community because of the obedience by members of St. Stephens and St. Paul to God’s call to be considerate to others. The continued generous donations from Kroger and Gleaners help to carry out our mission. During the month of March a total of 3,296 pounds of food was donated or purchased, and Daisy’s Pantry was able to distribute 2,215 pounds of food and other necessities to 18 families (65 individuals).

If you know of someone who is in need of food, have them call Love INC (517) 552-3620. The pantry is open on Wednesdays from 2:00 – 6:00 pm. by appointment through Love INC. If you are a member of St. Paul, you may call Arlene Wiltse to set up an appointment.

Pantry needs at this time include flour, crackers, mayo/Miracle Whip, boxed potatoes, pasta sides, pepper, and spices. All items may be placed in the cart located by the pantry door.

COFFEEHOUSE - a time for friendship, fun and feasting on physical and spiritual food Sunday evenings for 7-12 grade students, 5 – 6:15 p.m.

LASER TAG – Senior High Youth are going to play laser tag this afternoon. We will meet right after church, have lunch and then have some fun with laser tag. The cost is $15.

CONFIRMATION – Youth Confirmation classes continue this week at 6:30-8:00 p.m. They will also meet on April 29.

BIBLE READING PROGRAM FOR THE WEEK OF April 22 – 28. It is a good idea to develop a habit of regularly reading God’s Word. To help develop that habit, we suggest you use the daily Bible reading guide from the Lutheran Service Book. Daily Readings for this week:

    4/22    Exodus 32:15-35         Luke 6:39-49

    4/23    Exodus 33:1-23           Luke 7:1-17

    4/24    Exodus 34:1-28           Luke 7:18-35

    4/25    Exodus 34:29-35:21    Luke 7:36-50

    4/26    Exodus 38:21-39         Luke 8:1-21

    4/27    Exodus 39:32–40:16   Luke 8:22-39

    4/28    Exodus 40:40-56         Luke 8:40-56

INK CARTRIDGES – yes we are still collecting them – ink jet, laser, all types. Please place them in the container located by the windows near the ladies restroom. We are now taking advantage of Staples’ rebate offer and are able to purchase paper and other needed office supplies with the earned dollars.

EXCEL IN GIVING is a free electronic funds transfer service that enables you to make automatic contributions regularly. With Excel in Giving, it becomes easier for individuals to honor their stewardship commitments and further God’s work in the world. The enrollment process is simple. enrollment brochures are available in the tract rack in the Small Fellowship Hall.

WALK ON THE WILD SIDE by supporting Christian Education at the LCS Auction Dinner Saturday, April 28. Safari Supper and Silent Auction 4 p.m. and live auction 6 p.m. Tickets available at wwwllivingstonchristianschools.org

SING BOYS! Sing On Boy Choir of Ann Arbor celebrates their 25th Anniversary Reunion Concert on Saturday, May 12 at 8 p.m. There will be a reception at Concordia Chapel following the performance. The event is free but donations are gratefully accepted.

FIRST ANNUAL GOLF OUTING FUNDRAISER – LOVE Inc will host the event on Saturday, May 5 at Chemung Hills golf club 3125 Golf Club Rd Howell 48843. Registration begins at 8 a.m. and the cost is $100/golfer. The price includes 18 holes, cart, lunch at the Turn, dinner & prizes. Hole sponsorship is $75. Please turn in sign-up sheet and/or hole sponsorship by April 28^th. For more information contact Nick Harwood at (734) 277-3316 or nicholasjharwood@gmail.com.

BOY SCOUT TROOP 391 GOLF OUTING: Saturday, June 9, 2012 @ Rush Lake Hills Golf Club. 4 person scramble with a shotgun start at 9 a.m. $70 per person / $280 per team. For additional information call Cindy or Carl 734-878-4651 cmontalvo4651@charter.net. All proceeds from this benefit support troop 391. There are fliers up on the bulletin board in the small fellowship hall.

CELEBRATION OF LIFE Pregnancy Helpline’s Annual Fundraising Event to be held on Thursday, May 3 6:30-9:00 p.m. at Brighton Church of the Nazarene 7669 Brighton Rd. Dr. Alveda King (niece of Dr. Martin Luther King) will be the Keynote Speaker. Tickets are $20 thru April 25 and $25 after that date. Includes famous appetizer and dessert buffet, and a personal “Thank You” from a Mom that your support helped. Call Pregnancy Helpline (810-494-5433) to order tickets.

Calendar for April 22 – 29, 2012

Sun: 4/22    7:30am    Fresh Brew Bible Study

                      8:30 & 11:00am Worship Service

                      9:45am    Education Hour

                    11:00am    Kids’ Connection

                                        VBS Reunion Service

                    12:00pm    Senior High Laser Tag

                    12:30pm    Bootcamp/Walking

                      5:00pm    Coffeehouse

                      6:30pm    Confirmation Class

Mon: 4/23   9:00am    Quilters

                   11:00am    Women’s Bible Study

Tues: 4/24   7:30am    Kiwanis

                      9:00am    OldTimers

                      6:30pm    Scouts

Wed: 4/25   7:00pm    AA Meeting

Sat: 4/28      8:30am    Men’s Bible Study

                   10:30am    AA/Alanon

Sun: 4/29    2:00pm    IMAC Table Game Tournament

                      6:30pm    Confirmation Class

Readings for April 29:

Acts 4:1-12, 1 John 3:16-24, John 10:11-18

People in Action at St. Paul

Worship Attendance April 15: 216

Sunday School:  24 Staff: 4

General Fund April offerings:       $21,851

KIDS’ CONNECTION is a time for 3-year-olds through 2nd grade students to connect after the Children’s Message. Children will participate in the first part of the worship service, head to Kids’ Connection, then return to the Divine Service when the offering is received so that they may participate in a blessing at Holy Communion as well as the close of the service.

E-NEWS: It is time for you to sign up to receive the weekly Connecting to St. Paul E-News. Have you felt annoyed that you didn’t know what was going on until the event was already over? Go to stpaulhamburg.com/whoweare/enews and sign up to join our emailing lists.

FRESH BREW BIBLE STUDY meets again next week at 7:30 a.m. “The Lutheran Difference: Priesthood and Ministry.”

SUNDAY EDUCATION HOUR

9:45-10:45 a.m.

This week join our Education Hour because there is something for everyone!

v  Nursery is staffed for young children

v  Sunday School is a place for kids preschool through sixth grade

v  Holy Huddle is a powerful hour for seventh grade through high school

v  Pastor’s Bible Study and Roaming through the Bible are a great goups for adults

SUNDAY SCHOOL at St. Paul Lutheran Church is a wonderful environment for children to grow in their faith alongside their friends. Children are connected to God’s Word and get to the heart of each Bible teaching. Crafts and games give students a hands-on way to highlight the Bible story message. Bring your children, 3-years-old through 6^th grade, down to the basement classrooms for an hour of Bible stories, songs, crafts, and fun.

TODAY IN SUNDAY SCHOOL we study “Jesus Reinstates Peter.” We are all like Peter in our words and actions, denying our Lord and weeping bitterly over what we have done. We are in need of the same comfort that Peter received—the comfort of sins forgiven and the assurance that even though we are faithless, Jesus will remain faithful. You might discuss, “How did Peter express his sorrow and repentance? What specific directions did Jesus give to Peter?”

HOLY HUDDLE is a time for 7-12 grade students to find how God’s Word continues to speak in their lives and how they have been called by God for His holy purposes. Holy Huddle meets in the Activity Center. Holy Huddle will not meet on Easter Sunday.

ADULT STUDY OPTIONS @ EDUCATION HOUR

ROAMING THROUGH THE BIBLE we help each other understand what God is saying to us. Each week is a complete unit. We meet in the lower level in Sunday School Room 4. This discussion is led by Ted Richardson. Everyone is welcome.

PATH TO THE CROSS: Are you interested in the land and culture of the Bible? Join Pastor Gaertner in the Large Fellowship Hall in a study that uses videos from travel guide Ray Vander Laan to draw faith lessons from the biblically significant places of Jesus’ path to the cross.

Take Eat, Take Drink: Next week Pastor Gaertner begins a study on the Lord’s Supper.

MONDAY WOMEN’S BIBLE STUDY is currently studying  “Acts”. We continue our study in Acts 5-6. Join us tomorrow or any Monday at 11:00 a.m.

MEN OF INTEGRITY, Saturdays at 8:30 a.m. We will listen to a dad as he learns to forgive. Connect with guys that aren’t afraid to be Christians. Rolls, donuts, coffee, and juice are provided.

GLUTEN FREE communion wafers are now available. Inform Pastor Gaertner prior to the service so that we can accommodate your needs.

Some families at St. Paul have begun to prepare their children to receive the Lord’s Supper. This week you may observe children younger than eighth grade joining with us in Holy Communion. These children have been instructed in the six chief parts of the Small Catechism. There will be another class for parents this May for those who want to prepare their children to receive the Lord’s Supper in a worthy manner.

MAKE AN IMPACT WITH YOUR SPIRITUAL GIFTS! It is no fun feeling like a square peg trying to fit into a round hole. Go online and take our spiritual gifts assessment. After you take the assessment the results will be shared with Sheri Falzone. She will help you identify where you can make an impact with your gifts. Visit stpaulhamburg.com/ministries/volunteer-ministry to take the assessment.

ATTENTION ALL WRITERS- We are currently seeking columnists who wish to contribute their writing skills for our monthly newsletter. No experience with news reporting needed! All ages accepted! If you enjoy writing and would like to see your words in print please contact the church office at stpaul@stpaulhamburg.com or (810) 231-1033.

THANK YOU from Ole Hagan for all of the recent cards and prayers.

NEEDED: A lightweight transport wheelchair. Please call Shelly Swartz (810-220-0861) if you know of one that can she can borrow from 5/1 – 5/17.

COFFEE MUGS We would like to cut down on the amount of disposable coffee cups being used on Sunday mornings. Please bring a coffee mug to use on Sundays and leave in the kitchen.

ST. PAUL PLAYGOERS- We are going to see Wicked on Sunday, July 8 at 6:30 p.m. at the Wharton Center in Lansing. Twenty-five tickets have been reserved for the St. Paul Playgoers. The deadline to reserve YOUR ticket is May 27. Don’t wait until the last minute! The sign-up sheet is on the Playgoer bulletin board in the Fellowship Hall. Tickets are $63.50 each. Simply place your check, with “Wicked” written on the memo line, in the offering plate. Any questions, contact Cindy Elowsky, celowsky@charter.net or 810-231-3851.

LOVE IN THE NAME OF CHRIST WOMEN’S CAREER BOUTIQUE Help support the Love INC newest ministry housed at Living Stone Church in Brighton. The Boutique is seeking Plus-size donations, size 16 and up for clean business suits and professional clothing. Call Love INC at 517-552-3630, or Living Stone Church at 810-227-4073

BEDDING MINISTRY Would you like to make a difference in a family’s life? Are you cleaning out those linen closets? St. Agnes Catholic Church in Fowlerville is in desperate need of King, Full, and Twin size comforters. They also need Queen sheets and all kinds of towels. Please support the recipients of Love INC by phoning Love In the Name of Christ at 517-552-3816, or St. Agnes at 517-223-9740 to find out how you can assist this Love INC ministry.

DAISY’S PANTRY

Remind the people….to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good, …to be peaceable and considerate, and to show true humility toward all men.     Titus 3:1

Goodness and mercy continues to flow to those in need in our community because of the obedience by members of St. Stephens and St. Paul to God’s call to be considerate to others. The continued generous donations from Kroger and Gleaners help to carry out our mission. During the month of March a total of 3,296 pounds of food was donated or purchased, and Daisy’s Pantry was able to distribute 2,215 pounds of food and other necessities to 18 families (65 individuals).

If you know of someone who is in need of food, have them call Love INC (517) 552-3620. The pantry is open on Wednesdays from 2:00 – 6:00 pm. by appointment through Love INC. If you are a member of St. Paul, you may call Arlene Wiltse to set up an appointment.

Pantry needs at this time include crackers, mayo/Miracle Whip, boxed potatoes, salt, and pepper. All items may be placed in the cart located by the pantry door.

COFFEEHOUSE - a time for friendship, fun and feasting on physical and spiritual food Sunday evenings for 7-12 grade students, 5 – 6:15 p.m.

LAC (7^th and 8^th Grade – those in Confirmation) in April is Paintball on Saturday, April 21, 8:30 am. Cost is $30 and requires a permission slip available at Holy Huddle this morning and Confirmations classes tonight.

LASER TAG – Senior High Youth are going to play laser tag on Sunday, April 22. We will meet right after church, have lunch and then have some fun with laser tag. The cost is $15.

BIBLE READING PROGRAM FOR THE WEEK OF April 15 – 21. It is a good idea to develop a habit of regularly reading God’s Word. To help develop that habit, we suggest you use the daily Bible reading guide from the Lutheran Service Book. Daily Readings for this week:

4/15                                            Exodus 20:1-24                               Luke 4:1-15

4/16                                            Exodus 22:20–23:13                     Luke 4:16-30

4/17                                            Exodus 23:14-33                             Luke4:31-44

4/18                                            Exodus 24:1-18                               Luke 5:1-16

4/19                                            Exodus 25:1-22                               Luke 5:17-39

4/20                                            Exodus 31:1-18                               Luke 6:1-19

4/21                                            Exodus 32:1-14                               Luke 6:20-28

CONFIRMATION – Youth Confirmation classes continue this week at 6:30-8 p.m. They will also meet on April 22 and 29.

FEBRUARY 29, 2012 FINANCE SNAPSHOT

YTD Income & Expense Statement

Revenue / Offerings                                           $63,202

Expenses                                                              $71,490

Net Income (Loss)                                              ($8,288)

General Fund Cash Balance                            $80,745

This represents the cash balance available to fund our church operating costs, such as utilities, supplies & wages.

INK CARTRIDGES – yes we are still collecting them – ink jet, laser, all types. Please place them in the container located by the windows near the ladies restroom. We are now taking advantage of Staples’ rebate offer and are able to purchase paper and other needed office supplies with the earned dollars.

EXCEL IN GIVING is a free electronic funds transfer service that enables you to make automatic contributions regularly. With Excel in Giving, it becomes easier for individuals to honor their stewardship commitments and further God’s work in the world. The enrollment process is simple. enrollment brochures are available in the tract rack in the Small Fellowship Hall.

COUPON CLASS Have you ever wondered how to save more on your grocery bill?  Have you wanted to maximize those coupons in your Sunday paper or online, but just didn’t know how to start. On Saturday, April 21 at 3 p.m. Jolyn Felten from the website Bargains to Bounty, will be at Emmanuel Lutheran Church, 9950 Ridge Hwy, Britton to teach a beginner coupon class.  Jolyn will be here to show us how to use her website and others like it, along with coupons and store deals to get the most out of our shopping trips.  The class begins at 3 p.m. and the cost is $7 which includes handouts.  If you are interested in attending the class, tickets are available online at http://www.bargainstobounty.com/.  If you have any questions or need directions please call the church office at 517-451-8148.  We hope to see you there.

SING BOYS! Sing On Boy Choir of Ann Arbor celebrates their 25th Anniversary Reunion Concert on Saturday, May 12 at 8 p.m. There will be a reception at Concordia Chapel following the performance. The event is free but donations are gratefully accepted.

SHEPHERD OF THE LAKES LUTHERAN SCHOOL invites you to their hands-on science night. Science Under the Big Top is Friday, April 20 from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., but come and go as you please. Start in Genesis Hall to pick up your passport and to get a snack. Each classroom will have science activities for students to complete with teacher and parental help. SOTL, located in Brighton, provides an accredited, Christian education with a low student-to-teacher ratio and offers preschool classes for up to five days a week, prekindergarten, half and full-day kindergarten, and grades 1-6. See sotlschool.com for more information or call (810) 227-6473.

FIRST ANNUAL GOLF OUTING FUNDRAISER – LOVE Inc will host the event on Saturday, May 5 at Chemung Hills golf club 3125 Golf Club Rd Howell 48843. Registration begins at 8 a.m. and the cost is $100/golfer. The price includes 18 holes, cart, lunch at the Turn, dinner & prizes. Hole sponsorship is $75. Please turn in sign-up sheet and/or hole sponsorship by April 28^th. For more information contact Nick Harwood at (734) 277-3316 or nicholasjharwood@gmail.com.

BOY SCOUT TROOP 391 GOLF OUTING: Saturday, June 9, 2012 @ Rush Lake Hills Golf Club. 4 person scramble with a shotgun start at 9 a.m. $70 per person / $280 per team. For additional information call Cindy or Carl 734-878-4651 cmontalvo4651@charter.net. All proceeds from this benefit support troop 391. There are fliers up on the bulletin board in the small fellowship hall.

ONE DAY MARRIAGE RETREAT Dr. Gary Chapman, author of The 5 Love Languages, will be at Immanuel, Macomb leading a one-day retreat on Marriage Relationships on Saturday, April 21. Doors open at 8:30 a.m. and the retreat runs from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Registration is $80/couple or $40/individual and lunch is available on-site for $6. For more information, or to register, click here or contact Rev. Greg Griffith at ggriffith@immlutheran.org.

CELEBRATION OF LIFE Pregnancy Helpline’s Annual Fundraising Event to be held on Thursday, May 3 6:30-9:00 p.m. at Brighton Church of the Nazarene 7669 Brighton Rd. Dr. Alveda King (niece of Dr. Martin Luther King) will be the Keynote Speaker. Tickets are $20 thru April 25 and $25 after that date. Includes famous appetizer and dessert buffet, and a personal “Thank You” from a Mom that your support helped. Call Pregnancy Helpline (810-494-5433) to order tickets.

Calendar for April 15 – 22, 2012

Sun: 4/15    7:30am    Fresh Brew Bible Study

                      8:30 & 11:00am Worship Service

                      9:45am    Education Hour

                    11:00am    Kids’ Connection

                      5:00pm    Coffeehouse

                      6:30pm    Confirmation Class

Mon: 4/16   9:00am    Quilters

                   11:00am    Women’s Bible Study

                   12:30pm    Love Knots

                      7:00pm    Leadership Team

Tues: 4/17   7:30am    Kiwanis

                      9:00am    OldTimers

                      6:03pm    Scouts

Sat: 4/21      8:30am    Men’s Bible Study

                      9:00am    LAC Paintball

                   10:30am    AA/Alanon

Sun: 4/22  11:00am    VBS Reunion Service

                   12:00pm    Senior High Laser Tag

                      6:30pm    Confirmation Class

Readings for April 22:

Acts 3:11-21, 1 John 3:1 – 7, Luke 24:36-49

People in Action at St. Paul

Worship Attendance Holy Week:

                        Maundy Thursday April 5: 47

                        Good Friday April 6:       113

                        Easter Sunday April 8:    519

General Fund April offerings: $21,851

KIDS’ CONNECTION is a time for 3-year-olds through 2nd grade students to connect after the Children’s Message. Children will participate in the first part of the worship service, head to Kids’ Connection, then return to the Divine Service when the offering is received so that they may participate in a blessing at Holy Communion as well as the close of the service.

E-NEWS: It is time for you to sign up to receive the weekly Connecting to St. Paul E-News. Have you felt annoyed that you didn’t know what was going on until the event was already over? Go to stpaulhamburg.com/whoweare/enews and sign up to join our emailing lists.

FRESH BREW BIBLE STUDY meets again next week at 7:30 a.m. “The Lutheran Difference: Priesthood and Ministry.”

NEXT WEEK

SUNDAY EDUCATION HOUR

9:45-10:45 a.m.

Next week join the Education Hour because there is an option for every age.

v  Nursery is staffed for young children.

v  Sunday School is a great option for preschool through sixth grade.

v  Holy Huddle is a powerful hour for seventh grade through high school

v  For adults there is Pastor’s Bible Study and Roaming through the Bible.

SUNDAY SCHOOL at St. Paul Lutheran Church is a wonderful environment for children to grow in their faith alongside their friends. Children are connected to God’s Word and get to the heart of each Bible teaching. Crafts and games give students a hands-on way to highlight the Bible story message. Bring your children, 3-years-old through 6^th grade, down to the basement classrooms for an hour of Bible stories, songs, crafts, and fun.

HOLY HUDDLE is a time for 7-12 grade students to find how God’s Word continues to speak in their lives and how they have been called by God for His holy purposes. Holy Huddle meets in the Activity Center. Holy Huddle will not meet on Easter Sunday.

ADULT STUDY OPTIONS @ EDUCATION HOUR

ROAMING THROUGH THE BIBLE we help each other understand what God is saying to us. Each week is a complete unit. We meet in the lower level in Sunday School Room 4. This discussion is led by Ted Richardson. Everyone is welcome.

PATH TO THE CROSS: Are you interested in the land and culture of the Bible? Join Pastor Gaertner in the Large Fellowship Hall in a study that uses videos from travel guide Ray Vander Laan to draw faith lessons from the biblically significant places of Jesus’ path to the cross.

MONDAY WOMEN’S BIBLE STUDY is currently studying  “Acts”. We continue our study in Acts 5-6. Join us tomorrow or any Monday at 11:00 a.m.

MEN OF INTEGRITY, Saturdays at 8:30 a.m. We will listen to a dad as he learns to forgive. Connect with guys that aren’t afraid to be Christians. Rolls, donuts, coffee, and juice are provided.

GLUTEN FREE communion wafers are now available. Inform Pastor Gaertner prior to the service so that we can accommodate your needs.

In January, some families at St. Paul began to prepare their children to receive the Lord’s Supper. This week you may observe children younger than eighth grade receiving the Lord’s Supper. These children have received instruction in the six chief parts of the Small Catechism. There will be another class for parents this May so they can be equipped to prepare their children to receive the Lord’s Supper in a worthy manner.

ONLINE SPIRITUAL GIFTS ASSESSMENT- Please go to the church website and take the spiritual gift assessment because it is no fun feeling like a square peg trying to fit into a round hole. stpaulhamburg.com/ministries/volunteer-ministry. After you take the assessment the results will be shared with Sheri Falzone. She will help you identify where you can make an impact with your gifts.

COFFEE MUGS We would like to cut down on the amount of disposable coffee cups being used on Sunday mornings. Please bring a coffee mug to use on Sundays and leave in the kitchen.

ST. PAUL PLAYGOERS- We are going to see Wicked on Sunday, July 8, 2012 at 6:30 p.m. at the Wharton Center in Lansing. Twenty-five tickets have been reserved for the St. Paul Playgoers. The deadline to sign reserve YOUR ticket is May 27. Don’t wait until the last minute! The sign-up sheet is on the Playgoer bulletin board in the Fellowship Hall. Tickets are $63.50 each. Simply place your check, with “Wicked” written on the memo line, in the offering plate. Any questions, contact Cindy Elowsky, celowsky@charter.net or 810-231-3851.

THANK YOU to everyone who donated or helped at the blood drive this week. A total of 60 life-saving units were collected. Don’t forget to mark your calendars for the next blood drive on June 5 from 1-6:45 p.m.

DAISY’S PANTRY

Remind the people….to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good, …to be peaceable and considerate, and to show true humility toward all men.     Titus 3:1

Goodness and mercy continues to flow to those in need in our community because of the obedience by members of St. Stephens and St. Paul to God’s call to be considerate to others. The continued generous donations from Kroger and Gleaners help to carry out our mission. During the month of March a total of 3,296 pounds of food was donated or purchased, and Daisy’s Pantry was able to distribute 2,215 pounds of food and other necessities to 18 families (65 individuals).

If you know of someone who is in need of food, have them call Love INC (517) 552-3620. The pantry is open on Wednesdays from 2:00 – 6:00 pm. by appointment through Love INC. If you are a member of St. Paul, you may call Arlene Wiltse to set up an appointment.

Pantry needs at this time include crackers, mayo/Miracle Whip, boxed potatoes, salt, and pepper.  All items may be placed in the cart located by the pantry door.

COFFEEHOUSE - a time for friendship, fun and feasting on physical and spiritual food Sunday evenings for 7-12 grade students, 5 – 6:15 p.m. No coffeehouse today, but the pot will be brewed next week.

EASTER BREAKFAST is hosted by the Confirmation class of 2012 today from 8:45 – 11:00 a.m. The breakfast feast will include delicious food and good fellowship in the community of faith. Celebrate His resurrection and join us for a great breakfast.

LASER TAG – Senior High Youth are going to play laser tag on Sunday, April 22. We will meet right after church, have lunch and then have some fun with Laser Tag. The cost is $15.00.

 BIBLE READING PROGRAM FOR THE WEEK OF April 8 – 14. It is a good idea to develop a habit of regularly reading God’s Word. To help develop that habit, we suggest you use the daily Bible reading guide from the Lutheran Service Book. Daily Readings for this week:

4/8      Exodus 14:10-31           Hebrews 7:-8:13

4/9      Exodus 15:1-18             Hebrews 9:1-28

4/10   Exodus 15:19–16:12     Hebrews 10:1-18

4/11   Exodus 16:13-35            Hebrews 10:19-39

4/12   Exodus 17:1-16                Hebrews 11:1-29

4/13   Exodus 18:5-27                Hebrews 12:1-24

4/14   Exodus 19:1-25                Hebrews 13:1-21

CONFIRMATION – Youth Confirmation classes resume next week 6:30-8pm.

INK CARTRIDGES – yes we are still collecting them – ink jet, laser, all types. Please place them in the container located by the windows near the ladies restroom. We are now taking advantage of Staples’ rebate offer and are able to purchase paper and other needed office supplies with the earned dollars.

EXCEL IN GIVING is a free electronic funds transfer service that enables you to make automatic contributions regularly. With Excel in Giving, it becomes easier for individuals to honor their stewardship commitments and further God’s work in the world. The enrollment process is simple. Enrollment brochures are available in the tract rack in the Small Fellowship Hall.

SING BOYS! SING ON Boychoir of Ann Arbor 25th Anniversary Reunion Concert Saturday, May 12 8 PM Concordia Chapel Reception following the performance Free, donations gratefully accepted.

RUMMAGE SALE – On April 12 and 13 from 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. at Holy Spirit Catholic Church, 9565 Musch Rd Brighton (corner of Winans Lake and Musch Rds.) For more information call (810) 231-9199, Ext. 200.

SHEPHERD OF THE LAKES LUTHERAN SCHOOL invites you to their hands-on science night. Science Under the Big Top is Friday, April 20 from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., but come and go as you please. Start in Genesis Hall to pick up your passport and to get a snack. Each classroom will have science activities for students to complete with teacher and parental help. SOTL, located in Brighton, provides an accredited, Christian education with a low student-to-teacher ratio and offers preschool classes for up to five days a week, prekindergarten, half and full-day kindergarten, and grades one through six. See sotlschool.com for more information or call (810) 227-6473.

FIRST ANNUAL GOLF OUTING FUNDRAISER – LOVE Inc will host the event on Saturday, May 5 at Chemung Hills golf club 3125 Golf Club Rd Howell 48843. Registration begins at 8 a.m. and the cost is $100/golfer. The price includes 18 holes, cart, lunch at the Turn, dinner & prizes. Hole sponsorship is $75. Please turn in sign-up sheet and/or hole sponsorship by April 28^th. For more information contact Nick Harwood at (734) 277-3316 or nicholasjharwood@gmail.com.

BOY SCOUT TROOP 391 GOLF OUTING: Saturday, June 9, 2012 @ Rush Lake Hills Golf Club. 4 person scramble with a shotgun start at 9 a.m. $70 per person / $280 per team. For additional information call Cindy or Carl 734-878-4651 cmontalvo4651@charter.net. All proceeds from this benefit support troop 391. There are fliers up on the bulletin board in the small fellowship hall.

ONE DAY MARRIAGE RETREAT Dr. Gary Chapman, author of The 5 Love Languages, will be at Immanuel, Macomb leading a one-day retreat on Marriage Relationships on Saturday, April 21. Doors open at 8:30 a.m. and the retreat runs from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Registration is $80/couple or $40/individual and lunch is available on-site for $6. For more information, or to register, click here or contact Rev. Greg Griffith at ggriffith@immlutheran.org.

CELEBRATION OF LIFE Pregnancy Helpline’s Annual Fundraising Event to be held on Thursday, May 3 6:30-9:00 p.m. at Brighton Church of the Nazarene 7669 Brighton Rd. Dr. Alveda King (niece of Dr. Martin Luther King) will be the Keynote Speaker. Tickets are $20 thru April 25 and $25 after that date. Includes famous appetizer and dessert buffet, and a personal “Thank You” from a Mom that your support helped. Call Pregnancy Helpline (810-494-5433) to order tickets.

Calendar for April 8 – 15, 2012

Sun: 4/8       8:00, 9:30 & 11:00am   Worship Service

                      8:45am    Second Year Confirmands

                                        Serve Easter Breakfast

                    11:00am    Kids’ Connection

Mon: 4/9      9:00am    Quilters

                   11:00am    Women’s Bible Study

Tues: 4/10   7:30am    Kiwanis

                      9:00am    OldTimers

Sat: 4/14      8:30am    Men’s Bible Study

                   10:30am    AA/Alanon

Sun: 4/15    6:30pm    Confirmation Class

Readings for April 15:

Acts 4:32-35, 1 John 1:1 – 2:2, John 20:19-31

People in Action at St. Paul

Worship Attendance April 1: 291

General Fund March offerings: $30,039

General Fund April offerings: $9,548

KIDS’ CONNECTION is a time for 3-year-olds through 2nd grade students to connect after the Children’s Message. Children will participate in the first part of the worship service, head to Kids’ Connection, then return to the Divine Service when the offering is received so that they may participate in a blessing at Holy Communion as well as the close of the service.

E-NEWS: It is time for you to sign up to receive the weekly Connecting to St. Paul E-News. Have you felt annoyed that you didn’t know what was going on until the event was already over? Go to stpaulhamburg.com/whoweare/enews and sign up to join our mailing lists.

FRESH BREW BIBLE STUDY meets at 7:30 a.m. “The Lutheran Difference: Priesthood and Ministry.”

 SUNDAY EDUCATION HOUR

9:45-10:45 a.m.

SUNDAY SCHOOL at St. Paul Lutheran Church is a wonderful environment for children to grow in their faith alongside their friends. Children are connected to God’s Word and get to the heart of each Bible teaching. Crafts and games give students a hands-on way to highlight the Bible story message. Bring your children, 3-years-old through 6^th grade, down to the basement classrooms for an hour of Bible stories, songs, crafts, and fun.

TODAY IN SUNDAY SCHOOL On this Passion Sunday, our children study “Peter Denies Jesus.” Though we, like Peter, deny Jesus and His gifts, Jesus cannot deny us, because we are part of Him, baptized members of His own Body. Instead, He forgives us and welcomes us back. Consider asking, “How does Peter’s denial affect him? In what ways does God forgive us and welcome us back?”

HOLY HUDDLE is a time for 7-12 grade students to find how God’s Word continues to speak in their lives and how they have been called by God for His holy purposes. Holy Huddle meets in the Activity Center.

ADULT STUDY OPTIONS @ EDUCATION HOUR

ROAMING THROUGH THE BIBLE we help each other understand what God is saying to us. Each week is a complete unit. We meet in the lower level in Sunday School Room 4. This discussion is led by Ted Richardson. Everyone is welcome.

PATH TO THE CROSS: Are you interested in the land and culture of the Bible? Join Pastor Gaertner in the Large Fellowship Hall in a study that uses videos from travel guide Ray Vander Laan to draw faith lessons from the biblically significant places of Jesus’ path to the cross.

MONDAY WOMEN’S BIBLE STUDY is currently “Acts”. We continue our study in Acts 5. Join us tomorrow or any Monday at 11:00 a.m.

MEN OF INTEGRITY, Saturdays at 8:30 a.m. We will hear listen to a dad as he struggles with various activities that demand his time, energy and attention. Connect with guys that aren’t afraid to be Christians. Rolls, donuts, coffee, and juice are provided.

GLUTEN FREE communion wafers are now available. Inform Pastor Gaertner prior to the service so that we can accommodate your needs.

Beginning in January of this year families began to prepare their children to receive the Lord’s Supper. This week you may observe children younger than eighth grade receiving the Lord’s Supper. These children have received instruction in the six chief parts of the Small Catechism. There will be another class for parents this May so they can be equipped to prepare their children to receive the Lord’s Supper in a worthy manner.

ONLINE SPIRITUAL GIFTS ASSESSMENT- Please go to the church website and take the spiritual gift assessment because it is no fun feeling like a square peg trying to fit into a round hole. stpaulhamburg.com/ministries/volunteer-ministry. After you take the assessment the results will be shared with Sheri Falzone. She will help you identify where you can make an impact with your gifts.

COFFEE MUGS We would like to cut down on the amount of disposable coffee cups being used on Sunday mornings. Please bring a coffee mug to use on Sundays and leave in the kitchen.

ST. PAUL PLAYGOERS- We are going to see Wicked on Sunday, July 8, 2012 at 6:30 p.m. at the Wharton Center in Lansing. Twenty-five tickets have been reserved for the St. Paul Playgoers. The deadline to sign reserve YOUR ticket is May 27. Don’t wait until the last minute! The sign-up sheet is on the Playgoer bulletin board in the Fellowship Hall. Tickets are $63.50 each. Simply place your check, with “Wicked” written on the memo line, in the offering plate. Any questions, contact Cindy Elowsky, celowsky@charter.net or 810-231-3851.

RED CROSS BLOOD DRIVE 1-6:45 p.m. Tuesday, April 3. To schedule an appointment, visit RedCrossBlood.org, sponsor code stpaullutheran, or call 517-318-7210. The need is great. Be a blessing to someone.

Volunteers are needed to work the kitchen and registration areas. We would appreciate cookie and juice donations. Contact Lori at ischonshec@aol.com or 248-763-8503.

DAISY’S PANTRY

There will always be poor people in the land.  Therefore I command you to be open handed toward your brothers and toward the poor and needy in your land.    Deuteronomy 15:11.

The generous support of Daisy’s Pantry continues to generate words of appreciation, smiles, thank you notes, and sometimes tears from those who shop in the pantry. These words were heard recently, “If I shop here, I can afford my medications for the month.”  With ongoing prayers and generous donations, we will continue to be a blessing to the needy in our area. During the month of February a total of 2,487 pounds of food was donated or purchased, and Daisy’s Pantry was able to distribute 3,009 pounds of food and other necessities to 32 families (98 individuals).

If you know of someone who is in need of food, have them call Love INC (517) 552-3620. The pantry is open on Wednesdays from 2:00 – 6:00 p.m. by appointment through Love INC. If you are a member of St. Paul, you may call Arlene Wiltse to set up an appointment.

Pantry needs at this time include crackers, mayo/Miracle Whip, boxed potatoes, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.  All items may be placed in the cart located by the pantry door.

COFFEEHOUSE - a time for friendship, fun and feasting on physical and spiritual food Sunday evenings for 7-12 grade students, 5 – 6:15 p.m.

EASTER BREAKFAST will be hosted by the Confirmation class of 2012 on Sunday, April 8 from 8:45 – 11:00 a.m.  The Breakfast feast will include great food and good fellowship in the community of faith. Celebrate His resurrection and join us for a great breakfast. 

BASKETS OF PROMISE: Bags will be packed this Sunday, April 1, during Christian Education hour.

EASTER EGG HUNT will be Saturday April 7, beginning at 10:00 am for the children of the congregation and community. The hunt will include games, crafts, prizes and ‘the hunt’.

BIBLE READING PROGRAM FOR THE WEEK OF April 1 – 7. It is a good idea to develop a habit of regularly reading God’s Word. To help develop that habit, we suggest you use the daily Bible reading guide from the Lutheran Service Book. Daily Readings for this week:

4/1  Exodus 8:1-32                           Hebrews 1:1-14

4/2  Exodus 9:1-28                           Hebrews 2:1-18

4/3  Exodus 9:29–10:20                  Hebrews 3:1-19

4/4  Exodus  10:21–11:10               Hebrews 4:1-16

4/5  Exodus 12:1-28                         Hebrews 5:1-14

4/6  Exodus 12:29-32; 13:1-16         Hebrews 6:1-20

4/7  Exodus 13:17–14:9                  Hebrews 7:1-22

CHURCH EXTENSION FUND - Investing in turbulent financial times might seem counter-intuitive but in reality, now is the perfect time to plan ahead. The Church Extension Fund is the place to put your hard-earned dollars to work — for you and your church. To find out what type of investments are available and for current interest rates, visit Church Extension Fund online at www.mi-cef.org or call 800-242-3944.

INK CARTRIDGES – yes we are still collecting them – ink jet, laser, all types. Please place them in the container located by the windows near the ladies restroom. We are now taking advantage of Staples’ rebate offer and are able to purchase paper and other needed office supplies with the earned dollars.

EXCEL IN GIVING is a free electronic funds transfer service that enables you to make automatic contributions regularly. With Excel in Giving, it becomes easier for individuals to honor their stewardship commitments and further God’s work in the world. The enrollment process is simple. Enrollment brochures are available in the tract rack in the Small Fellowship Hall.

DID YOU KNOW??? If you are a member of Thrivent, you have CHOICE DOLLARS. Annually Thrivent donates funds to various charities. Now they have elected to have their members designate the charity they want their dollars to go to. These are not funds from your individual investments but are part of Thrivent’s proceeds. You have an opportunity to have these funds given to our church. When you receive notice from Thrivent that you have CHOICE DOLLARS, please consider St. Paul. When you call or do this on-line, the correct designation is St. Paul Lutheran Church in Whitmore Lake. For some reason, we are listed under Whitmore Lake and not Hamburg.

RUMMAGE SALE – On April 12 and 13 from 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. at Holy Spirit Catholic Church, 9565 Musch Rd Brighton (corner of Winans Lake and Musch Rds.) For more information call (810) 231-9199, Ext. 200.

 SPRING CLEANING? Young adults moved out? Mom and dad moved out or moved in? The Love In the Name of Christ (Love INC) Furniture Ministry is in desperate need of new or gently used furniture. The biggest needs are for love seats, tables and chairs, recliners, and dressers. Imagine your empty apartment with no place to sit. The Love INC Furniture Ministry has given over 6,000 pieces of furniture in the last 4 years. All families are verified through the Love INC office. If you are able to donate please phone 810-494-4063. Leave your name and number and you will receive a call to set up a time to pick up your items.

ADDICTION 101 is a free Dawn Farm Educational event that will examine the dynamics of drinking and drug use, review addiction as a brain disease, and describe the process of recovery from chemical dependency. The program takes place on Monday, April 2 from 7-9 p.m. at the Hamburg Senior Center 10405 Merrill Rd Whitmore Lake. For more information visit http://www.dawnfarm.org or call Matt Statman at (734) 485-8725.

SHEPHERD OF THE LAKES LUTHERAN SCHOOL invites you to their hands-on science night. Science Under the Big Top is Friday, April 20 from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., but come and go as you please. Start in Genesis Hall to pick up your passport and to get a snack. Ea h classroom will have science activities for students to complete with teacher and parental help. SOTL, located in Brighton, provides an accredited, Christian education with a low student-to-teacher ratio and offers preschool classes for up to five days a week, prekindergarten, half and full-day kindergarten, and grades one through six. See sotlschool.com for more information or call (810) 227-6473.

FIRST ANNUAL GOLF OUTING FUNDRAISER – LOVE Inc will host the event on Saturday, May 5 at Chemung Hills golf club 3125 Golf Club Rd Howell 48843. Registration begins at 8 a.m. and the cost is $100/golfer. The price includes 18 holes, cart, lunch at the Turn, dinner & prizes. Hole sponsorship is $75. Please turn in sign-up sheet and/or hole sponsorship by April 28^th. For more information contact Nick Harwood at (734) 277-3316 or nicholasjharwood@gmail.com.

BOY SCOUT TROOP 391 GOLF OUTING: Saturday, June 9, 2012 @ Rush Lake Hills Golf Club. 4 person scramble with a shotgun start at 9am. $70 per person / $280 per team. For additional information call Cindy or Carl 734-878-4651 cmontalvo4651@charter.net. All proceeds from this benefit support troop 391. There are fliers up on the bulletin board in the small fellowship hall.

ONE DAY MARRIAGE RETREAT Dr. Gary Chapman, author of The 5 Love Languages, will be at Immanuel, Macomb leading a one-day retreat on Marriage Relationships on Saturday, April 21. Doors open at 8:30 a.m. and the retreat runs from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Registration is $80/couple or $40/individual and lunch is available on-site for $6. For more information, or to register, click here or contact Rev. Greg Griffith at ggriffith@immlutheran.org.

CELEBRATION OF LIFE Pregnancy Helpline’s Annual Fundraising Event to be held on Thursday, May 3 6:30-9:00 p.m. at Brighton Church of the Nazarene 7669 Brighton Rd. Dr. Alveda King (niece of Dr. Martin Luther King) will be the Keynote Speaker. Tickets are $20 thru April 25 and $25 after that date. Includes famous appetizer and dessert buffet, and a personal “Thank You” from a Mom that your support helped. Call Pregnancy Helpline (810-494-5433) to order tickets.

Calendar for April 1 – 8, 2012

Sun: 4/1       7:30am    Fresh Brew

      8:30 & 11:00am     Worship Service

                      9:45am    Education Hour

                    11:00am    Kids’ Connection

                    12:00pm    Board of Governors meeting

                    12:30pm    Boot camp/walking

                      5:00pm    Coffeehouse

Mon: 4/2      9:00am    Quilters

                   11:00am    Women’s Bible Study

                      7:00pm    Spiritual Care Team Meeting

Tues: 4/3     9:00am    OldTimers

                      1:00pm    Blood Drive

Thurs: 4/5    9:00am    Hymn Selection

                      7:00pm    Maundy Thursday Communion

                                        Worship Service

Fri: 4/6       12:00pm    Good Friday Noonday Worship

                      7:00pm    Good Friday Service of

                                        Relinquishment

Sat: 4/7        8:30am    Men’s Bible Study

                   10:00am    Easter Egg Hunt

                   10:30am    AA/Alanon

Sun: 4/8       8:00am & 9:30am Traditional Worship

                      8:45am-11am Easter Breakfast

                   11:00am    Worship with Kids’ Connection

Readings for April 8:

Isaiah 25:6-9, 1 Cor. 15:1-11, Mark 16:1-8

People in Action at St. Paul

Worship Attendance March 25: 237

Sunday School:   Staff:

General Fund March offerings: $30,039

April 2012 Newsletter for Web