From Your Minister …
December 2016/January 2017
"Get in the Spirit of the Season”
Hanging of the Greens
There have been a few people, having stopped in my office, that have
noticed something very intentionally placed.
It’s a nativity scene. It was given to me by a young family in my last
congregation that didn’t need or want it any more (Their kids had played
with the pieces when they were little). This family, talked to me about a
conversation that was had among them: ‘What do we do with a nativity
scene we don’t want any more? We can’t throw out baby Jesus. But we
don’t need it!’ Their answer: give it to Pastor Ashley. She can do
something with it.
Since the set had been given to me in 2012 Mary, Joseph, a shepherd,
Wise Men and little baby Jesus in the manger have graced the shelves
of my offices, every single day.
It’s not that I forgot to put it away. It’s because I think there is something
deeply holy and almost magical about Christmas worth remembering all
year. It has nothing to do with a guy in a red suit, or with the ‘spirit of
giving’ that espouses the holiday, but with the plain and simple claim that
on Christmas we celebrate the incarnation of God in our human flesh. In
other words, it is during Christmas we remember that God once made
room, and a home in a body much like ours.
I have always felt that in some ways, Christmas reminds us that our
bodies will always carry a sense of the sacred. That in the process of
our lives, there is something shared between us and God: in infancy,
childhood, adolescence and adulthood, that in all of these days we are
inherently woven to the Spirit of God. It makes the physical seem sacred
and holy that no other holiday can. Finally, it also makes alive God’s
promise to walk with us always, to share in our suffering, to help us bear
our burdens in a way that a God, relegated to another world
above never could.
The Incarnation is a promise that in all of our days, that on every road
traveled, we have a partner and confidant. Which is a great reason to
keep the baby Jesus out all year, giving us beautiful permission to sing,
with great gusto, every day of our lives, one of the most beautiful lyrics of
our Christian hymnody: “Christ, by highest heaven adore! Christ the
everlasting Lord! Late in time behold him come, offspring of the virgin’s
womb. Veiled in flesh the Godheads see, hail the Incarnate Deity,
please in flesh with us to dwell, Jesus our Emmanuel. Hark the herald
angels sing, glory to the new born King.”
Merry Christmas to each of you. And in this New Year, may you rest in
the quiet keeping of the God, who came veiled in flesh to walk with us
every single day.
We will be hosting our Annual Chili Supper (6:00pm)
and hanging of the greens (6:30pm) on Wednesday,
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November 30 . The activity begins with a chili and
dessert supper followed by decorating of the sanctuary and narthex.
Please join us. Sign up on the narthex bulletin board and indicate
whether you can bring a pot of chili or a dessert.
WOMEN’S ADVENT CANDLELIGHT SERVICE
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MONDAY, DECEMBER 5 , 2016
6:30pm – Friendship and Dessert
7:00pm – Service
Ladies, join us for an evening away from all the stresses
and hustle and bustle the holiday season brings our way. Enjoy a
relaxing evening just for you. Starting out with friendship and dessert,
our favorite Christmas carols, stories and candlelight. It’s an evening
you are sure to enjoy. Please feel free to bring a daughter, friend,
neighbor or co-worker.
We are in need of readers and bakers. Sign up sheets are on the
bulletin board in the Narthex.
Thank you, Women’s Journey
USHERS NEEDED FOR CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICES
If you will be attending one of the three services on Christmas
Eve, please consider volunteering as an usher. There is a
sign-up sheet in the narthex.
MESSIAH – A FREE CONCERT
Enjoy a free ecumenical experience bringing communities together
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through God’s Word. Friday, December 2 , 7:30pm, at St. Gabriel
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Catholic Parish, and Sunday, December 4 , 3:00pm, at Crossroads
Presbyterian Church. Several members of Pilgrim will be singing in the
concert. Come and enjoy!
Your sister in Christ,
Pastor Ashley
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Christmas Poinsettias
This Christmas Season our Sanctuary will be adorned with
the beauty of $10.00 (6-1/2" pot, 5-6 blooms) or $17.00 (71/2" pot, 10+ blooms) poinsettias by filling out the form
below. Please indicate a red or white poinsettia by circling your choice.
Poinsettias may be given in honor of living friends and relatives or in
memory of loved ones who have gone on to eternal life. We must have
your order by Monday, December 5th. In addition, we request that you
pick up your poinsettia sometime following the 9:00pm Christmas Eve
service so that all may enjoy the collective beauty of the flowers that
evening. If desired, you may also leave your flowers through the New
Year!
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------_________________________________________would like to provide:
(Your Name)
Circle choices: ($10.00 or $17.00); (red or white) in (memory or honor) of:
________________________________________________________
Relationship to you: ______________________________________
_______________________________________________________
(Please place in offering plate or turn in to church office.)
MISSIONS
HOLIDAY MISSION PROJECTS
Be A Star - We invite you to select a star from the tree and
shop for a child from our sister church, Mount Horeb or a child
within our own congregation. The stars show the child’s age,
gender, size and interests so that gifts can be purchased
appropriately. The unwrapped gifts should be returned to church and
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placed near the tree in the Narthex by Sunday, December 11 with the
star securely attached to the outside of your bag. We are also accepting
donations of wrapping paper, gift tags, bows and scotch tape.
There will be a Gift Wrapping Party held at Mount Horeb on Sunday,
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December 18 at 1:30pm. A sign-up sheet is posted if you can help.
Carpooling can be arranged, leaving from church at 12:45pm.
Note: If you would like to make a monetary donation for the Be A Star
project, we will do the shopping for you. Please use a Mission Envelope
found in the pews and note your name, envelope number and that it’s to
be used for the Be A Star project.
Unused Christmas Cards: If you have Christmas cards that you’d like
to donate, please put them in the box located in the Narthex. They will
be delivered to local nursing homes. The deadline is Sunday,
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December 11 .
MOUNT HOREB’S CHRISTMAS TEA
If you are interested in attending their annual Christmas Tea, mark your
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calendar for Saturday, December 10 and watch for more information
on the Mission Board and in the Sunday bulletin.
Christmas Eve Services
Saturday, December 24th
PILGRIM FAMILY FUND
Are you familiar with this fund? It’s used to help members within our
congregation who are experiencing financial hardship. If you would like
to contribute to this fund, donations can be placed in a Mission Envelope
marked Family Fund. Contributions can also be sent to the church
office.
All services will conclude with candlelight and singing of “Silent Night”.
Family Candlelight Service – 3pm
This abbreviated worship service gathering includes
carols, scripture and prayers.
Children’s Candlelight Service – 5pm
THE CHRISTMAS FUND
The theme for this year’s Christmas Fund is GOD’S LOVE COLORS
EVERYTHING. For 115 years, this fund for the Veterans of the Cross
and the Emergency Fund provides UCC congregations and members an
opportunity to reach out and provide assistance to those who have so
faithfully served our church and who now find themselves facing
unexpected financial needs. We will receive the offering on Sunday,
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December 18 .
A child-friendly encounter with the Christmas story is offered
through carols and worship.
Traditional Candlelight Service – 9pm
This worship will include traditional scripture readings, carols
and special music
December 25 Merry Christmas!
9am Family Worship Service
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Mission News Continued
WOMEN VETERAN’S GIFT
A big THANK YOU to those who donated items and helped to assemble
this year’s gift of Chap Stick, Hershey’s Kisses and a Yarn Hat
Ornament. We were able to assemble 45 gifts to be handed out to
women veterans who are currently being housed at Dom 21 of Zablocki
Medical Center and twenty-two gift bags will go to Zablocki hospice
patients. Pictures are posted on the Mission board.
GO MIN MYUN SCHOOL SPONSORSHIP
When the adult mission trip participants went to Thailand last March,
they met Saw Sel Blad, a teacher at the Go Min Myun School in Burma.
We were able to provide money for students attending this school to pay
for uniforms and school supplies. We would like to continue providing
this help by sponsoring these students. The cost to sponsor one child for
a year is $50.00. We will have information and sponsor sheets available
after the holidays for anyone interested in sponsoring one of the students
for the 2017-18 school year. If you have any questions about this
Mission project, please contact Donna Tredrea at [email protected]
or call 262-302-0013,
ST. BEN’S SERVING AND BAKING
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At least twenty-four desserts are needed on Friday, December 2 and
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Friday, January 6 .
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Our serving dates are Tuesday, December 12 and January 24 .
Please sign up on the Mission Board.
HABITAT FOR HUMANITY
By the time this newsletter comes out, the keys will have been turned
over to the family that will move into the first home built in Grafton.
Thank you to those from Pilgrim that volunteered to help build this home.
EQUAL EXCHANGE – UCC COFFEE PROJECT
Each time you visit the Equal Exchange table and make a purchase, you
are making a difference both locally and globally. Why is Fair Trade so
important? Stop by and pick up information which lists the benefits to
people and the planet. And while you are there, why not purchase some
Fair Trade coffee and/or chocolate?
MR. BOB’S UNDER THE BRIDGE MINISTRY
As we prepare for the winter months by changing our wardrobes and
turning up the heat, Milwaukee’s homeless population is in need of our
donations now, more than ever. Please drop off warm clothing, sleeping
bags or quilts and personal hygiene items in the bin located near the
carport entrance. If convenient for you, please drop off your donations at
Advent Church in Cedarburg. Mr. Bob’s ministry continues to exist
because of the work and donations of many and they want everyone to
know that they appreciate the help.
NEXT MISSION TEAM MEETING
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The Mission team will meet on Monday, January 9 at 7:00pm in the
Conference Room
December ROCK Hour News
CHILDREN'S HOLIDAY MISSION PROJECT
This year, the children are asked to bring "Grandparent" gifts in
December to be delivered to LaSata to brighten the
holiday of the residents there. The children have received
flyers with suggestions for items to bring.
CHILDREN’S MISSION PROJECT
All the children’s offering money for the remainder of the year will go
towards sponsorship of the children at the Go Min Myun School in
Burma, run by Htee Sher Paw’s uncle.
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CHRISTMAS PARTY ON DECEMBER 18
Don’t miss our December Christmas party between the 8:00am and
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10:30am service’s Christmas program on Sunday, December 18 .
We will have pizza and fruit and a birthday cake for Baby Jesus.
THE PRISON YARN MINISTRY
Yarn and cotton fabric is always needed so they can continue to create
beautiful afghans and quilts. Place your donations next to Mr. Bob’s
collection bin located near the carport entrance and mark it “Yarn
Ministry.”
REMINDER
There will be no church school classes held on Sunday,
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December 25 and Sunday January 1 . Classes resume
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January 8 Peace be with you and yours throughout this
blessed holiday season!
ADULT MISSION TRIP—SHREVEPORT, LA
This trip is scheduled for March 4-9, 2017 working with the Fuller Center
helping to construct and/or repair homes. Cost per person is $160. A
meeting will be scheduled in January. If interested in learning more,
please add your name to the sign-up sheet posted on the Mission board.
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January ROCK Hour News
Important Christmas Program Information
The First Christmas – December 18th
ATTENTION BELL RINGERS
Children's Bell Choir will be starting in February.
Practices will be Sundays from 10:20-10:40am. Bell
choir is open to all children in grades 1 through 6.
Details to come.
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Sunday, December 4 :
ROCK Hour and Voyagers (Full Cast) rehearse during Rock
Hour (9:00 a.m.) Little ROCKS will rehearse during their
regular class time (10:30 service).
IMPORTANT UPCOMING DATES
Sunday, December 11th:
Regular (full cast) rehearsal for Voyagers and ROCK Hour.
Little ROCKS will be filming a special part for the program
during their regular class time today.
Saturday, December 17th:
9:00am-11:00am:
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January 29 –10 Commandments Milestone and ROCK-attendance
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February 26 – Singing Sunday 1 – 6 , Lord’s Prayer Milestone
ROCK-attendance
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March 26 – ROCK-attendance
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April 23 – Bell Choir
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April 30 - Great Commission & Great Commandment Milestone
ROCK-attendance
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May 7 - Singing Sunday 1 -6
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May 21 –Singing Sunday Little ROCKS, Voyager Challenge make-up
Milestones, ROCK-attendance
Voyager Dress Rehearsal
(5th and 6th Graders only)
Sunday, December 18th:
8:00 am-11:30am 1st – 6th Graders
meet downstairs for the Christmas Program. We will
share the program at BOTH services with a snack
during Rock Hour in between.
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EXPLORERS (1 - 4 ) NEWS
The Explorers will be "meeting" and learning about Jesus
and his cousin John the Baptist and memorable stories
from the New Testament in January. We are in need of
ROCK hour helpers and “actors” for the upcoming months.
Here is the link to the sign-up.com site. Please consider
joining your child/children for a Sunday morning and see what ROCK
hour is all about!
https://signup.com/client/invitation/6775657374/1621368/false#!1621
368/false/false
10:20am Little Rocks (2 year olds through
Kindergarten)
Dropped off in the Music Room for the program.
Little Rocks will only participate (live) in the 10:30am
service.
Costume Notes:
All children should just wear regular church clothes.
Any costumes will be put on at church
Presented by the Voyagers
during the 8:00am and 10:30am services.
Sunday, December 18th, 2016
CHILDREN’S MINISTRY DIRECTOR
If you have ever organized an event, for yourself or your children,
I want to talk to you about helping with Children’s Ministry!
We are in need of a person (or two) to organize events for
Little Rocks, Explorers, and Voyagers.
This would include advertising and organizing volunteers.
Please contact Gisela Berger at [email protected]
Or call/text at (414)469-5784.
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CONNECT AND COMMUNE - Sunday, December 4 and January 15
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This is a chance for 7 and 8 grade Confirmands to gather, share
friendship and attend service together as a group. Food provided.
Connect and Commune will be one Sunday every month and eight
opportunities to fulfill your attendance requirements with your friends.
Details:
Gather 10:00am in the Connections/Synago room for
friendship, food and fun.
Worship & Share Communion 10:30am service.
Other Connect and Commune Dates for the Year:
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February 5 , March 5 , April 16
CHRISTMAS PARTY
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December 14 will be our final Confirmation class of 2016 and we’ll end
it with a small party! We will exchange names, and share some treats.
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Classes will resume on Wednesday, January 4 , 2017.
REMINDERS
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• 8 graders planning on attending the July 2017 Youth Mission
Trip will receive a price reduction of $50 per fundraiser that they
participate in up to three fundraisers.
• Confirmands are required to fulfill three service requirements.
FUNDRAISING
December Cookie Bake
Mark your calendars for our Annual Cookie Bake Fundraiser! This is one
of our biggest fundraisers of the year and we need all hands on deck.
New format this year provides multiple opportunities to help prepare and
decorate cookies. We need parent help too!
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Wednesday, December 14 - mixing and baking 2pm-6pm
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Thursday, December 15 - mixing and baking 2pm-6pm
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Friday, December 16 - baking and some decorating 9am-??
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Saturday, December 17 - baking & packaging cookies 9am-11am
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Sunday, December 18 - cookie sale after 8:30am service and after
10:30am service
We need all Youth to bring a donation of 3-4 dozen pre-made
Please see sign-ups on the Synago bulletin board, a list of baking
supplies needed and a donation box.
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BRAT FRY SUNDAY – Sunday, January 8
Spread the word! Pilgrim Youth will be holding our second annual winter
Brat Fray between services. This will be a great way to support the
Youth Mission Trip Fundraising efforts and break up the winter blahs.
Youth Help will be needed and sign-ups will be posted.
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Sunday, February 12 2017
Mark your calendars and get ready to for a great meal and a fun night of
Pilgrim talent! Talent is open to ALL!! Watch the Synago bulletin board
for details and sign-ups. This is our largest fundraiser and we need
both youth and parent help.
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SYNAGO WORSHIP SERVICES
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December Service Date - December11
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January Service Dates – January 8 and 22th
Gathering time: 10:00-10:30am in the Media Room FOOD PROVIDED
Service time: 10:30-11:30am in the Media Room
SOCIAL
Talk it Out Tuesday - Meet at a local coffee shop after school to talk,
drink coffee, tea or just chill. Monthly meetings will be posted and
communicated via Facebook and text. Chris Hart will look forward to
seeing the smiling faces of our Synago Youth!
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December schedule: Dec. 6 Collectivo in Grafton after school
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Dec. 13 Roastery in Cedarburg after school
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January schedule: Jan. 10 Collectivo in Grafton after school
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Jan. 24 Roastery in Cedarburg after school
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REMINDER 8 – 12 GRADERS
PARTICIPATION IN THE FOLLOWING FUNDRAISERS WILL REDUCE
THE COST OF THE MISSION TRIP BY $50 PER FUNDRAISER.
(for up to three fundraisers)
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Cookie Bake Sale (December 14 -18 )
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Winter Brat Fry (January 8 )
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Spaghetti Dinner/Talentless Show (February 12 )
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Spring Breakfast (April 2 )
(additional fundraisers may be added)
SERVICE th
Christmas Caroling - Sunday, December 11 after 10:30 service.
Spread Christmas cheer to Pilgrim members at their homes! This annual
event will be sure to get your son or daughter in the Christmas spirit!
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Gift Wrapping at Mt Horeb - Sunday, December 18
Here is an opportunity to give back and share in a few hours of friendship
and gift wrapping with our sister church Mt. Horeb. Carpool will leave
from Pilgrim at 12:45. Sign-up posted on the Synago board.
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PILGRIM NEWS
Thanks to….
* Thanks is for Giving – Thank you Pilgrim Members and friends for
giving your time, talents, passions, and love throughout the whole year.
Thank you from folding bulletins, assembling Pilgrim’s Progress,
changing lightbulbs, snow removal, lawn mowing, hospitality, music,
serving on committees, all the way to extending a hand in your special
way. THANK YOU!!!
For Healing and Strength…
*Al Patterson and his family as they mourn the passing of Ruth.
*Tom Monroe who is recovering from surgery for pancreatic cancer.
*Terri Marsh who is in hospice and her partner, Mark Dolwig as he
walks with her.
*Ben Tiffany who continues to become acclimated to new heart
medication.
*Bowen (Steph Emmer’s nephew) as he receives treatment for Leukemia.
*Ron Van Ryzin as he continues to recover from a stroke.
*Karen Hemplemann who is recovering from a motorcycle accident.
*Carolyn Fuhr who is recovering from hip surgery.
*Dorothy Bowen who is recovering from a broken ankle.
*Kathy Ellenbecker who continues to recover from an infection.
*Jean Weber who has been under the weather lately.
*Gordon Weber who is having eye treatments.
*Amy Matter who is recovering from knee surgery.
*Candy Sinner who is battling walking pneumonia.
*….For all of those that struggle with mental illness.
*….For all of those that have recently been hospitalized.
*Plymouth UCC, Eau Claire, (Rev. David Huber, Pastor) after a fire
destroyed their building.
*Ogburn and Foerster families
*For those who are alone during the holiday season.
OUR MEMBERS IN CARE FACILITIES OR HOMEBOUND
Ruth Ackmann, The Arboretum, Menomonee Falls
Rev. Steve Evans, Cedar Bay East
Donna Graham, Lasata Heights
Elizabeth Hembel, Lasata Heights, Cedarburg
Ruth Mappes, Ellen’s Home, Port Washington
Eleanor Paschke, Home
Dolores Poulos, Home
Jack & Beverly Richardson, Lasata Crossings
Linda Schafer, Newcastle Place
Russ Selbo, Masonic Home, Dousman
Jacob Godejohn – US Marine Corps, LCpl
Nathan Kline – Wisconsin Army National Guard, PVT
Adam Lusty – US Army, PFC
Adam Schulz – US Marine Corps, Cpl
We continue to honor and pray for those who serve.
Dear Pilgrim Friends,
I'm sending out a big thank you to all of you who were so gracious in
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donating meals for our Meal Blitz on November 6 . We handed out
anddelivered 16 meals to identified people in our church community who
were so very pleased and appreciative.
It's great to know there are so many who care about others and are so
willing to step up.
Thanks so much, and God bless all of you :)
Cory Jepsen-Hobbs,
Care Team Chair and Meal Blitz Coordinator
In Celebration of…
*Connor Francis Elgin, son of Chris and Elizabeth and brother to
Kaylee and Alaina, who was baptised on November 13th.
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SOCIAL OPPORTUNITIES FOR DECEMBER
The greatest gift of all is to become the blessing!
SCRIPTURE CHAT
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On Thursday, December 8 at 10:30am Scripture Chat will be held in
the Conference Room at Church. The scriptures to be discussed will be
Isaiah 35:1-10 and Matthew 11:2-11.
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On Thursday, January 12 , at 10:30 am Scripture Chat will meet in the
conference room at church. The scriptures to be discussed will be
Isaiah 49:1-7 and John 1:29-42.
ADULT STUDY
Wednesday Evening Bible Study at 6:30pm
This series follows a UCC publication on various Bible Books. We
continue Romans, part 2 which covers chapters 9-16. It includes a
participation guide for review prior to each session, as well as thought
provoking questions for discussion during the weekly group meetings.
Please join us in the downstairs Conference/Library Room. If you have
questions, contact Rachel Gutridge 262-375-0923 or Ron Wildasin 262377-9547.
Sunday Morning Adult Education Class at 9:20am
Jesus and His Jewish Influence, DVD Video Series
This series is produced by “The Great Courses.” A total of 24 sessions of
about 30 minutes per lecture by Dr. Jodi Magness, a distinguished
professor from the University of North Carolina. We will explore how
Jesus’ actions and teachings came from traditions, cultures, and
historical developments of ancient Jewish beliefs. There is no homework.
Come with an open mind as we gain insights into Jesus the Christ.
BREAKFAST AND LEARN
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Saturday, January 21 , 7:30am
Presentation: “Professor Mullins and the Traveling Medicine Show”
Join in on a fun program as Richard Whitaker brings his vast collection of
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antique bottles that date back to the late 19 century. Hear the stories as
he draws us into an interactive presentation.
Please sign up in the Narthex. There will be a free will offering to cover
the cost of the breakfast.
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SHEEPSHEAD GROUP
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Don’t be sheepish come and join us!!! – Friday, December 2 and
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Friday, December 16 at 1:00pm in the Conference/Library room. New
players are welcomed!! Contact LaVerne Johnson at 262-377-4824.
WOMEN'S BOOK CLUB
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The Women’s Book Club will meet on Monday, December 12 at
7:00pm at the home of Rachel Gutridge. We are going to read Martin
Copenhaver's book Room To Grow. We will read pages 1-48 for
December.
WOMEN’S JOURNEY
Women’s Journey will NOT be meeting in December.
SENIOR COFFEE
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On Thursday, December 15 at 10:00am Senior Coffee will
meet in the Conference/Library Room at church. The
discussion question will be: What is your favorite book
genre to read?
KNITTING GROUP/CRAFTY LADIES
The Knitting Group, or Crafty Ladies, will not be meeting in December.
Hope to see you next year!
FUNSETTERS LUNCHEON
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The Funsetter lunch group will gather on Thursday, December 29 , at
11:30am at Prime Minister restaurant in Thiensville.
CHRISTMAS CAROLING
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Join us on Sunday, December 11 immediately
following the 10:30 worship service for a light luncheon
(a free will offering to be taken) and then off to bring
Christmas Caroling & Hand Chime Cheer to some
Pilgrim friends. Watch the Narthex Bulletin Board for a sign up! If you
have any questions, please contact Cory Jepsen-Hobbs at 376-1724 or
at [email protected]
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IMPORTANT PILGRIM’S PROGRESS NEWS
Beginning February 2017 the Pilgrim’s Progress will be sent primarily
through email. Printed copies of the Pilgrim’s Progress will be available
on the table outside the Church Office. If you would like a printed copy
mailed to you, please contact Lucy Wyka at 377-2640 or
[email protected].
SOCIAL OPPORTUNITIES FOR JANUARY
Approach the New Year with resolve to find the
opportunities hidden in each day. Happy New Year!
SHEEPSHEAD GROUP
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Play some cards and keep warm! – Friday, January 6 and
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January 20 at 1:00pm in the Conference/Library room
downstairs. New players are welcomed! Contact LaVerne
Johnson at 262-377-4824.
STEEPLECHASERS
Mark your calendar and save the date!
Steeplechasers are coming to Pilgrim
Sunday, February 19th at 3:00pm
WOMEN’S BOOK CLUB
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Monday, January 9 at 7:00pm the Women's Book Club
will meet at the home of Rachel Gutridge. We are going to
read Martin Copenhaver's book Room To Grow. We will
read pages 49-101 for January.
SENIOR COFFEE
Senior Coffee will meet in the Conference/Library Room at
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church at 10:00am on Thursday, January 19 . The
discussion question will be What is the favorite picture
you’ve ever taken? If you can, bring it with you.
WOMEN’S JOURNEY.
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On Tuesday January 17 at 7:00pm the Women’s Journey group will
meet at the home of Pat Grabow for their After the Holidays Party. Each
member should bring an appetizer.
KNITTING GROUP
The date for the January Knitting Group is to be determined.
FUNSETTER LUNCHEON
The Funsetter luncheon in January is to be determined.
The Steeplechasers are a dynamic, new
chamber music group comprised of
members from the Milwaukee Symphony
and Milwaukee Ballet Orchestra and Pilgrim's very own Amanda Koch
on Viola. This is a free concert with a goodwill offering at the door.
PILGRIM’S LIBRARY NEWS
Just a reminder that Pilgrim has an active Library in the Conference
Room. We hope that you will stop by and peruse a diverse collection of
reading materials, as well as CD’s and DVD’s. There is a sign out sheet
that we ask you to utilize for checking a title out. If you have any
questions, please contact Tom Kopka at [email protected].
In the November Wisconsin Conference Life Newsletter, Wisconsin UCC
Conference Minister, Franz Rigert stated: "Inequalities inherent in
Milwaukee are vividly described in Matthew Desmond's book,
Evicted: Poverty and Profit in the American City. I highly recommend
it to you." Desmond's book was the Amazon Best Book of March 2016,
as well as shortlisted for the 2017 Andrew Carnegie Medal for
Excellence in Nonfiction. This book has been purchased for Pilgrim and
can be found in the conference room library. Please consider checking it
out.
ATTENTION ALL MINISTRY LEADERS & STAFF!
ANNUAL REPORTS DUE
ADVENT DEVOTIONALS
Enhance your spiritual journey this season with daily Advent
readings. The Advent Devotionals are available on the table
outside the office.
Please take one per family -- they are a gift to you with the hope
that the devotions and prayers will bring joy and meaning to your life.
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Annual Reports for year 2016 will be due in the church
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office Monday, January 23 , 2017. Committee chair people are asked
to provide a summary of 2016 accomplishments and an outline of goals
for 2017. Annual Reports will be available in January. Thanks!
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Council Minutes Continued
2016 OFFERINGS AND 2017 ENVELOPES
ANNUAL STATEMENTS - The Church's Financial Year will close after
the last Sunday of December. All contributions sent by mail should be
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received by the Church by Monday, January 2 and be postmarked
and/or dated in 2016. We will print the Annual Statements on
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Wednesday, January 4 and have them available for pickup at Church
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on Sunday, January 18 .
2017 Offering envelopes will be available for pickup in mid-December.
They are expensive to mail, so if you can drop a friend’s off – that would
be helpful too!
PASTORAL RELATIONS COMMITTEE
In welcoming a new pastor to our congregation this year, Pilgrim is reimplementing the Pastoral Relations Committee.
The purpose of the committee is to support and maintain an open and
healthy relationship between the pastor and the members of the
congregation. As an advisory group, the committee shares ideas, hopes,
dreams, expectations and concerns of the congregation with the pastor.
In turn, the committee can interpret and communicate roles, functions,
and needs of the pastor to the congregation.
Recognizing that concerns and conflict are best handled when parties
involved communicate directly with one another, the Pastoral Relations
Committee can, at times, serve as a venue in which expectations of the
pastor and the expectations of the congregation can be shared and
expressed via a middle ground.
Very often in the first year, Pastoral Relations committee members are
chosen from the search committee based on the fact that these people
have had the most contact with the new pastor and have spent much
time researching and getting to know the wishes, needs, and hopes of
the congregation.
Your new Pastoral Relations Committee,
Annie Gehrke, Rachel Gutridge, Neal Hobbs
COUNCIL HIGHLIGHTS
November 10, 2016
*Unapproved as of printing*
Treasurer’s Report: Total revenues for October 2016 were $37,626. Total
expenses were $21,732. Net Income was $15,894.
Minister and Administrator Reports:
Minister Report:
• Christmas Day fall on a Sunday so Pilgrim will have a 9:00am service.
• Ashley has spent time meeting with home bound members each week.
• Isabelle Boegel was baptized on October 30th.
• Connor Elgin will be baptized on November 13th.
17
• Ashley will begin working with a transition coach. The first topic of
discussion will be the strategic planning process in churches.
• Ashely has been asked to serve as the Southeast Association Representative
of the UCCI board and site committee chair for Pilgrim Center.
• Ashley has also been asked to serve as a delegate for the Wisconsin
Conference at the Wisconsin Council of Churches Meeting on December 5th
in Wisconsin Dells.
• Ashley attended a meeting with the Grafton Clergy Group.
• Another meeting in December is planned with the Grafton School District
Administration
Administrative Report:
• Everything has been downloaded off the current website. On Nov. 11th the
process of switching the domain will begin and take about 48 hours. The
website will be down between Nov. 11th and 25th. A post will be added to
Pilgrim’s Facebook account explaining that the website is down.
• Stewardship letters were mailed out in October.
• Candy is working on a new format for the PP.
• The new cleaning service has started.
• Light bulbs were replaced in the sanctuary.
• Property & Grounds has made a request for a new 24 inch Toro snow
blower. Pilgrim currently has two donated snow blowers both 15-20 years
old and one no longer works. Few people have volunteered for snow
removal and a new snow blower may make the work of clearing entries and
sidewalks less difficult. Motion passed to purchase snow blower.
• Lawn mowers will also need replacement in spring.
• Candy will get a new proposal for the new water heater from Tim Stern.
Old Business:
• Matt has been in contact with and received a proposal from Dave Velcheck
of Interstate Roofing Systems Consultants (IRSC) to test the copula for
water leakage. It’s likely the leak is near where the EIFS meets the roof and
since the copula walls are not water tight, water leaks in. The proposal
includes one day of water testing by 2 people, documentation of testing
procedures and a final report of defects observed. The estimate for the work
is not to exceed $2,280 and lift expense is expected to be $985.
Motion passed to do the repairs on the copula.
• Stewardship – 113 pledges have been received total $203,131. Reminder
emails will be sent now through next week.
• Budget Proposal Finalization – Louise asked the Council for a motion to
approve the proposed 2017 budget of $303,679. Matt made a motion.
Kathy seconded the motion. Motion passed.
• 3 Council positions remain open for 2017. At this time only one member
has accepted the offer to join the Council.
New Business:
• The annual meeting is scheduled for Sunday, December 4th.
Next Meeting: Thursday December 8th, 2016, 6:00pm.
18
SCRIPTURE READERS FOR DECEMBER
8:00
10:30
4 Erin Petersen
4 Judy Koeppl
11 Mary Beuscher
11 Suzanne Beck
18 Candy Sinner
18 Mary Wilkerson
January Scripture Readers to be posted in December.
Flowers and Bulletins for December
4
11
18
25
WELCOME CENTER
December
8:00 Rose Wessel
10:30 Darya Alexander
th
December 25 9am Service Rose Wessel
4
11
18
25
Neu, Behrens, & Schubert
Wooten’s
Mekelburg’s
None needed
We need both flowers and bulletins for January & February.
Please sign up for your special day!
FINANCE REPORT
JANUARY SUNDAY TREATS
1
8
15
22
29
4
11
18
25
Bulletins
Deb & Randy Neu
------------------------Kathy Ellenbecker
Please call the office to indicate what you would like printed in the
bulletin or fill out the forms available by the sign-up charts.
January
8:00 Sheila Kuck
10:30 Kristen Martin
January 1st 9am Service Sheila Kuck
DECEMBER SUNDAY TREATS
Flowers
Deb & Randy Neu
----------Poinsettias
Poinsettias
None needed
Staff Relations
Care Team
-------------------------------
General Fund
Cash Balance – Beg. Of Period
October
$ 323,534
YTD
$ 80,653
Cash Receipts
Cash Disbursements
Loan Payments
Cash Balance – August 31, 2016
38,000
(23,276)
--------$ 338,258
740,514
(307,645)
(175,264)
$ 338,258
Cash Balance Comprised of:
Memorial Funds - Various
Memorial Funds – Building Bequest
Operating Cash
ROCK ‘N PLAY CENTER
Staffed from 7:45am-11:45am for infants-5K.
Children ages 2yr-5K are welcome to join Little Rocks
following the Children's Moment during the 10:30am
worship service.
34,452
260,129
43,678
$ 338,258
OFFICE HOURS
Pastor Ashley Nolte – Monday - Thursday 8:30am-3:30pm
Evenings & weekends by appointment and as necessary.
Please call or text 920-762-0192
OFFICIAL NOTICE!!
Candy Sinner – Monday & Tuesday 8:00 – 4:00pm
Wednesday & Thursday 8:00 – 3:00pm
Lucy Wyka – Tuesday – Friday 8:30 – 11:30
Annual Congregational Meeting
th
Sunday, December 4 at 9:15am
in Kalweit Hall
Office Phone 262-377-2640
e-mail – [email protected]
WEB Page – www.pilgrimuccgrafton.org
1) Discuss and vote on 2017 budget
2) Present and vote on all ministry nominations for 2017
3) Other old and new business
Please note: Annual Reports will be available in January.
Please submit February articles by January 23rd.
19
20
DECEMBER BIRTHDAYS
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
Eloise Bejma
Victor Sowers
Phil Koch
Carl Roemke
Will Seawall
Gunnar Simenc
Geoffrey Karnish
Ronald Holtslander
Mike Homme
Phyllis TeStrake
Pam Morrow
Diane Tompkins
Jeff Wimmer
Brynn Hegedus
Richard Whitaker
Elaine Hilkert
Nicole Kline
Joshua Meier
Lori Stern
Kyle Elbe
Reagan Schmitter
Aubrey Ashley
Cory Jepsen-Hobbs
Clare Pedersen
Laura Bloedorn
Terese Sackett
Heidi Steckel
Nathaniel Wolfgram
Megan Adams
Nicole Ashley
Kyle Peterson
Frank (Bud) Kesselring
Chandler Lewis
Erik Nelson
Andy Schmitter
Kiera McInerney
Adrian Zimmermann
Jack Gallagher
Mary Hockinson
USHERS
17 Mary Johnson
Tom Mayer
David Plautz
18 Paul du Vergey
Jordan Hughes
Heidi Jenkins
Diane Kornetzke
Gerry Orten, Jr.
19 Shaun Destrampe
20 Kristin Halula
Maggy Jassoy
Pam Klenner
Kathy Roberts
Adam Schulz
Janet Van Zile
21 Jonathon Bublitz
Mike Godejohn
22 Tim Collins
23 Carol Charnitz
Chris Hart
24 Anne Roemke
25 Greg Cornell
26 Stacy Kornetzke
Sarah Ogburn
Bailey Willis
27 Kelly DuBord
Brandon Kelling
Diane Nauta
29 Trinn Rigert
Bonnie Schlenvogt
30 Dee Dieringer
Ryan Heisdorf
Vic Pappas
31 Kyle Adams
Dennis Grabow
Shawn Moede
Jody Schubert
Megan White
December
8:00
Geoff Nauth
Louise Lusty
Mark Matter
10:30
Mike Godejohn
Kit Faase
Matt Faase
Ed Proctor
Lynda Van Dyke
Tammy Mueller
Vic Pappas
January
8:00
10:30
Ron Wildasin
Greg Mursch
Barb Arity
Dustin Beck
Jane Bachman
Don Deetjen
Groth
Roger Groth
Brian Heniadis
Dennis Grabow
Devon Polzar
The 8:00 usher group is responsible for the December 25
th
9am service
GREETERS
C= Carport Entrance
4
11
18
25
1
8
15
22
29
N= Front Door entering Narthex
December
8:00
10:30
Erin Petersen/Brad Sperber - C
4 Jen & Brandon Wittenberg- C
Pam Paul - N
Lance & Jennifer Wooten - N
Tim & Dawn Pfaff - C
11 Lys Buck & Liz Yoon - C
Mike & Chrissy Pfeiffer - N
Robert & Linda Ziats - N
David & Leslie Plautz - C
18 Megan Adams - C
Ed & Carol Proctor - N
Bob & Carol Antisdel - N
9am Service Ruth & William Reas -C Curtis Ashley - N
January
8:00
10:30
9am Service Dustin & Suzanne Beck - C Doug & Barb Bader - N
Youth Sunday - C
8 Youth Sunday - C
Youth Sunday - N
Youth Sunday - N
Alex Santo - C
15 Jeff & Sara Bernard - C
Terese Sackett - N
Lee & Stacy Baldwin - N
Warner & Linda Schafer - C
22 Alex & Rev. Laura Blanco - C
Steve & Carrie Schaefer – N
Scott & Susan Bartlein - N
Gordon & Jean Weber - C
29 David & Linda Boesch - C
Bonnie Schlenvogt - N
Allen & Katie Baublit - N
Please contact Dorothy Bowen (377-2218) or [email protected]
if you cannot greet on your scheduled Sunday.
ACOLYTES
December
8:00
If your birthday is not listed, or is
incorrect, please let the office know.
Thank you!
21
10:30
Joshua Meier
Owen Snyder
11
11 Gwen Wolfgram
Jonathan Wolfgram
18 Chloe Kobliska
18 Siena Carli
Kaylee Elgin
25 9am service only -- Ushers to find Acolytes
4
22
4
JANUARY BIRTHDAYS
USHERS
1
2
3
4
5
7
8
9
10
11
13
14
15
16
17
18
Jeff Bejma
Jill Cobb
Neal Hobbs
David Meier
Jack Kornetzke
Isla DuBord
Kati Robishaw
Jerry Wessel
Gary Klopp
Josslynn Stiebs
Karen Tiffany
Sara Bernard
Maria Destrampe
Ellie Gehrke
Rayce Morrow
Annie Gehrke
Marianna Rigert
Don Smith
Holly Sutinen
Amanda Holtslander
Jim Wilkerson
Colin Leyton
Sandra Wegner
Angela Wenzel
Elizabeth Elgin
Wally Heisdorf
Kathy Kanios
Bonnie Willis
Tabatha Meier
Chris Elgin
Sophia Pekarske
Sheryl Welzien
Brian Sueppel
Richard Martin
Gary Dowe
Cindy Winkler
Karyn Zillmann
Tim Dearth
19
20
21
22
23
25
26
27
28
29
31
January
Daniel Bader
Matthew Sutinen
Michelle Bauer
Abigail Roberts
Riley Braun
Mark Meier
Alexander Britt
Christopher Britt
Caden Francek
Chris Kline
Addison Schubert
Todd Johnson
Alexander Meer
Wyatt Nelson
Bonnie Orten
Aubrey Schmitz
Htoo Say Paw
Nicole Meer
Dylan Mayer
Anna Morrow
Ryan Seawall
Sue Bartlein
Alex Blanco
Eric Borchardt
Eric Gergens
Dolores Poulos
Alex Santo
Claire Hegedus
Ted Kraus
Grayson Rudich
8:00
Ron Wildasin
Barb Arity
Jane Bachman
Groth
Roger Groth
Dennis Grabow
10:30
Greg Mursch
Dustin Beck
Don Deetjen
Brian Heniadis
Devon Polzar
February
8:00
10:30
Bill Sinner
Bob Stecle;
Randy Mitschka Nancy Gruebling
Deanne
Larry Gruebling
Schubert
Jesse Schubert
Chris Leidel
Candy Sinner
Bill Maca
The 10:30 usher group is responsible for the January 1
st
9am service
GREETERS
C = Car Port Entrance
N = Front Door Entering Narthex
January
8:00
10:30
1 9am Service Dustin & Suzanne Beck - C Doug & Barb Bader - N
8 Youth Sunday - C
8 Youth Sunday - C
Youth Sunday - N
Youth Sunday - N
15 Alex Santo - C
15 Jeff & Sara Bernard - C
Terese Sackett - N
Lee & Stacy Baldwin - N
22 Warner & Linda Schafer - C
22 Alex & Rev. Laura Blanco – C
Steve & Carrie Schaefer – N
Scott & Susan Bartlein – N
29 Lee & Pam Schlenvogt - C
29 David & Linda Boesch - C
Bonnie Schlenvogt - N
Allen & Katie Baublit - N
February
8:00
10:30
5 Andy & Reagan Schmitter - C
5 Tim & Mary Boesch - C
Jody & Jodi Schubert - N
Jeff & Kathryn Bejma - N
12 Jesse & Deanne Schubert - C 12 Justin & Tracy Braun - C
LaVonne Sinner - N
Michael & Amber Bell - N
19 Bill & Candy Sinner - C
19 Eric & Kate Burrows - C
Sue Sperber - N
Andrew & Kristen Berns - N
26 John & Phyllis Testrake - C
26 John & Jennifer Carli - C
Carol Trad - N
Eric & Allissa Borchardt - N
Please contact Dorothy Bowen (377-2218) or [email protected]
if you cannot greet on your scheduled Sunday.
If your birthday is not listed, or
is incorrect, please let the office
know. Thank you!
ACOLYTES
January
23
1
9am Service - Ushers to find Acolytes
8
Chloe Kobliska
15
Tomi Hart
15
22
Tomi Hart
22
29
Garrett Rescorla
29
24
8
Ty Mekelburg
Max Jacoby
Liliah Boesch
Sophia Boesch
Lucas Geisler
Brynn Hegedus
Trevor Langford
Tyler Tagliapietra