Announcements

St. John's Lutheran Church Founded July 4, 1775- An ELCA Congregation
101 W. Martin Street
Martinsburg, WV 25401
Office: 304.263.9291
FAX: 304.263.4559
Pastor James D. Riley, Jr.
E-mail: ShowFaith@AOL.com

Announcements
2012 Congregational Officers Elected Monday, January 9th 2012
President - Buddy Newman;
Vice President - Lori Taylor;
Secretary - Sally Jemkins;
Treasurer -Bill Agee
Archivist: Becky Roberts

2012 Congregational Members Rob Arensberg,Trina Bartlett, Betty Lou Boynton, Michael Janney, Sally Jenkins- Secretary, Jane Kelly, Harry Michener, Patrick Murphy, Buddy Newman, Connie Reiter, Frank Rittershoer, Lori Taylor, Don Smith, Paul Wangerin , Scott Wood

BOOK CLUB NEWS
Next book: Heaven is for Real by Todd Burpo; next meeting: February 26.

Blanket Fund Envelopes
were in the January newsletter and are in church narthexes; they will be collected through February

A SPECIAL THANK YOU! No one seems to knows who shoveled the sidewalk last week but we should all be thankful for that gift of time and energy!
Annual Giving Statements Have Been Mailed Please contact the office if yours is not delivered this week.

There are a number of dishes in the kitchen area of Luther Hall. They were gathered following fellowship/funeral dinners. Please take a moment to check on the rack outside the kitchen. Thanks!

St Johns Jrflyte
GAME NIGHT(well afternoon). January 15 at 3:00. Tried to make a time that everybody can make it.
I hope nobody mines, I volunteered Jr FLYTE to sponsor Souper Bowl Sunday on Febuary 5.
What we do is have Luther Hall decorated with the team colors for the 2 teams in the super bowl ( Dolphins and whoever else). Help serve soup and collect money for Friends Feeding Friends.

Poinsettia Report This year 76 plants were placed in the Chancel area of the church. Kristi Davis along with Sherri Feltner and Traci Harden arranged the plants beautifully. Additionally $974 was contributed by those in the congregation who preferred not to give a memorial plant but wished to contribute to local charities. This year's local charity was St. John's Friends Feeding Friends. Thank you to all who participated in this program of the church. This was an exremely generous gift to our community and those in need!

Harvest Home Offering Report The monies we receive through this special offering are sent to the National Lutheran Home in Rockville, Maryland to provide "something extra" for the residents. That may take the form of a dietary treat or an extra outing as the Home sees fit. This year through your generosity, we were able to send $1,190. This is a wonderful response and one that will bring a blessing to many residents.

Christmas Envelope Report $1,805 was received through the church Christmas envelope project. The money was split in four ways with equal parts going to Shenandoah Women's Shelter, Meals on Wheels, Bethany House (Community Networks) and Loaves and Fishes (C-CAP). Again THANK YOU for your great generosity and desire to remember others in need during the holiday season. The Annual Meeting of St. John's Will Be Sunday, February 5th at 12:30PM. Lunch will be provided by the church followed by the meeting.

Fourth Sunday of Advent
December 18, 2011
WORSHIP SERVICES 8:30AM AND 11:00AM with HOLY COMMUNION
"A CANDLELIGHT CHRISTMAS"
A Cantata by Benjamin Harlan
Combined Choirs at each Service

PASTOR JAMES D. RILEY, JR.
Sunday School 9:45AM

9:45AM Adult Sunday School- Discussion :CHRITMAS
led by Pastor Riley
meets in Luther HAll-
Coffee will be available

THANK YOU Kristi Davis, Sherri Feltner and Traci Harden for the wonderful job of arranging our poinsettias!

CHURCH COUNCIL/ TRUSTEE ELECTION November 27, 2011 Elected to CHURCH COUNCIL for a three year term: Rob Arensberg Trina Bartlett Betty Lou Boynton Harry Michener Patrick Murphy Elected as TRUSTEE for a five year term: Bill Agee

Thrivent Food Project Results
Thanks to the generosity of you – the members of St. John’s Lutheran Church –
360 pounds of food was delivered to Loaves and Fishes. That amount along with the matching gift from VA-WV Panhandle Chapter of Thrivent made the value of our donation about $650. WOW! ! We are only one church and that is a wonderful gift to our community. THANK YOU AGAIN.

Offering Envelopes These will be available in Luther Hall on Sunday, December 11. Please pick yours up to help the church with cost of mailing.

No Sunday School December 25th! What To Do in Bad Weather! Any cancellations of worship services or events will be announced over radio station WRNR (AM 740) and on the church's telephone system.

Congregational Stewardship Meeting and Luncheon Sunday, October 30th. The 2012 budget was approved without objection.

November 13 - The Rev. Dr. Kathleen O. Reed, Chief Advancement Officer at Gettysburg Seminary will be our guest preacher of the day.

11/12/11 SCRIP CARD DEADLINES: (for guaranteed delivery for the holidays)
Thanksgiving – Today; if ordered next week, they may come by the 23rd
Christmas - 12/18; orders should arrive on 12/21 or 12/22
No orders between Christmas and New Years.
(We have $25 Martins cards available in the office.) Over $7000 has been raised from this program!

Link to Article and Picture in Martinsburg Journal 10/5/11 regarding 2011 Main Street Martinsburg showing Pastor Riley holding St. John's 2011 Christmas Tree Ornament Link to Article

Jr. Flyte teamed up with the Berkeley County BackPack
Program to sponsor a food drive during October
so much more. Any help is appreciated.

NEEDED: Warm Coats or Jackets (any size or gender)
If you have any that you no longer need, we will be collecting them through November 19th for distribution during Friends Feeding Friends. They may be left in Luther Hall.

It’s not too early to mark your calendar for the November 20th decorating of our church, along with making graham cracker houses with the children - pot luck supper to follow. Help is always welcomed!!

THE BOOK CLUB We will meet on November 13th at 1:00PM at the Coffinberger's; date was changed due to Stewardship Lunch Meeting. Discussion will be on our member's book, Coming Full Circle. Karen will also be with us

Confirmation Classes begin Sunday, November 7 at 4PM!
Classes are for 8th and 9th graders.

Program Director Kevin Massey has been working in Minot, North Dakota this week, following record-breaking floods there. This field report tells of the people he met there and the long road to recovery that lies ahead.

Pie Social Please come and celebrate Thanksgiving, enjoy fellowship and kickoff the 2012 Scholarship Fund at the ANNUAL PIE SOCIAL. Sunday November 20th after both services! Bring your favorite pie to share, and if possible, a donation for St. John's 2012 Scholarship Fund. Helpers would be appreciated. Call the Cottrills.

Pie Social
Please come and celebrate Thanksgiving, enjoy fellowship and kickoff the 2012 Scholarship Fund at the ANNUAL PIE SOCIAL. Sunday November 20th after both services! Bring your favorite pie to share, and if possible, a donation for St. John's 2012 Scholarship Fund. Helpers would be appreciated. Call the Cottrills.

THRIVENT FOOD DRIVE CHALLENGE FOR LOCAL FOOD PANTRIES Non-perishable food items will be collected through November 20th. The amount collected will be matched by Thrivent for Loaves and Fishes, so we encourage you to contribute what you can. AND, THANK YOU for your continued generosity.10/30/11

Labels for Operation Christmas 10/30/11
Child Shoeboxes are available in the Narthexes or in the Lounge; boxes may be left there, also.

10/30/11 NEEDED: Warm Coats or Jackets (any size or gender)
If you have any that you no longer need, we will be collecting them through November 19th for distribution during Friends Feeding Friends. They may be left in Luther Hall.

October 30 is REFORMATION SUNDAY! All attending worship are asked to wear something RED in observance of the day

The Congregational Stewardship Meeting and Luncheon will be Sunday, October 30th immediately after the 2nd Service. The 2012 budget will be presented!

* Christmas Play *
A meeting to discuss and assign parts for the Christmas Play will be held on Thursday, October 27th at 6:30PM in Luther Hall. Anyone of any age who would like to participate is welcome!

Jr. Flyte is teaming up with the Berkeley County BackPack Program to sponser a food drive for the remainder of Oct. We have placed boxes in Luther Hall and the church for collection.

The BackPack program is helping to end child hunger in our county.... one backpack at at time. The program fills a bag of food for the children to take home on Friday to help with children that depend on school lunches and breakfast. As of last week we sent home 134 bags of food, with more being added each week. The closing of the Angel Food program makes the need so much more. Any help is appreciated.

List of food items needed:
microwavable food item- such as chef boyardee, soup, mac n cheese, juice boxes, fruit cups, pudding cups, snack crackers, peanut butter, fruit or granola bars, fruit snack, small bags of snack chips or pretzels, both large of small boxes of cereal, etc.

Thanks to everyone for their help!

JEWELRY purchases will be available until 10/16 Contact Linda Riley or the Church Office

*Apple Harvest Parade Food Sale Saturday We will need helpers; please see Betty Lou Boynton or Linda Riley. Donations needed: Cookies, Brownies, Bars, Granola, etc. (please bag for sale, 2-3 per bag); Snack items such as individual bags of chips, Fritos, pretzels, etc.; canned soda or 16oz. bottles of water. These can all be left in the Lounge anytime this week, and thanks!

The Sacrament of Holy Baptism The sacrament will be administered 10/9/11 at the 11AM service to Isabelle Ruth White daughter of Erica Louise Klein White and Richard Leo White. The White family will also be joining St. John's.

Junior Choir rehearsals start Wednesday, September 28th at 6PM in the Chapel. Children 10 and under are invited to attend. Questions contact Jenn Moss at 304.262.6708 or jcmoss@comcast.net. See announcement- Junior Choir Fall 2011

In Kind Gifts Boxes
have been placed in each Narthex for those than can help with small personal-size feminine products for the Women's Convention. All items collected will be coming back to benefit our Women's Shelter. If anyone or a group of people would like to donate a gift basket for the Silent Auction to benefit Lutheran World Relief that would be appreciated! See the newsletter for more information.http://www.lutherans-showfaith.net/Files/WELCA/Jul_'11%20WELCA_Newsletter_Article.pdf Sept 2011

Remember to bring your school backpacks to Sunday 9/11 as Pastor Riley will be blessing them

HELP WANTED … anyone interested in shepherding the High School S.S. class, please see Pastor Riley, Linda McQuaid or call the office this week. Material is available.

Women in the Fast Lane will meet again September 18th.
(Please note change from second Sunday, due to church picnic.)

Festival of Faith @ Trinity, Arden "Nourish Us With Sacred Story" Join us for a day of conversation with the members and friends of the West Virginia - Western Maryland Synod, ELCA as we encounter the "sacred story" of the Bible together.Come to grow in your confidence in using scripture for both your personal study and as you study the Bible with others. Saturday September 24, 201, Trinity Lutheran Church Arden- Read more at Festival of Faith at Arden

Linda McQuaid, chair of the Christian Education Cpmmittee has sugested that we wear RED, WHITE & BLUE Sunday in memory of 9/11

9/1/11 Adult Sunday School Announcement The Adult Sunday School Class will meet in the main room of Luther Hall on Sunday, September 18 at 9:45AM. Our first session will be dedicated to determining what our course of study will be. Individual suggestions will be welcomed. Past classes have included studies of biblical books, social themes within the church and ethical studies developed by the ELCA. The sessions are open to all members of the church and Pastor Riley is the leader.

Ice Cream Social ALL Circle Members are invited to the home of Linda Riley for a combined meeting on August 16th. Reports on the Convention will be given. If you have been thinking about joining a Circle, come and join us!

Book Club News
The Girl in the Gatehouse by Julie Klassen, is the new book club choice. They will meet again on September 25th.

A total of $200.00 was donated during the Ice Cream Social and will be forwarded to The Grove Center. Thank you for the generosity!

"An Old-Time Gospel Hymn Sing" August 21st – both services Musical accompaniement by Paul Wangerin, Joe Brookreson, Heather Watkns and Jerry Crites with some old favorites and some new ones, also. If you have a favorite you'd like to hear, let one of the musicians or the church office know.

Sunday School Carpet Vote 106 For 3 Against to approve spending not more than $6,000 to recarpet two Sunday School rooms.

The Work on the Storage Building and Sidewalk Is Complete! Please take a few minutes to take a look!

St. John's Mother and Father of the Year! Our Mother and Father of the Year were both absent last week and their recognition has been delayed to an appropriate time. More information will be coming. In the Narthexes are gifts for all our mothers and fathers who did not receive one last week. The small gifts are for fathers. Size is not significant!

Sunday School Will Be on Summer Break Our Sunday School will hold its final meeting on Sunday, June 19 and then break for the summer and return Sunday, September 11th at our RALLY DAY Sunday.

Our Choirs on Summer Break The final performance of our choirs will be Sunday, June 26. They will return in September.

African Hunger Relief
If you want to help with global effort you can give to the ELCA's Disaster Relief Fund through your regular offering in two ways. Make your check out to the church with Disaster Relief printed in the Memo section. You can also send your contribution directly to the ELCA at 8765 Higgins Road, Chicago, IL 60631-4101.

LOVE OFFERING CORRECTION For Circle members or anyone who would like to participate; This year's offering: One-half to the Scholarship Fund; One-fourth to publishing of Lutheran Lines; and One-fourth to a local charity. Please make sure to get your offerings to Pat Weinrich by next Sunday, July 31.

7/28/11Acolytes and Crucifers Needed!
Our list is depleted by birthdays, transfers and a hundred other reasons. We need young people to serve in this important way in the church.
Acolytes should be in 1st through 6th grades, although special arrangements may be made.
Crucifers should be in the 7th grade and above.
If you are interested in joining these two areas of service, contact the Director Mike Noll (267-6383 or mnoll@hughes.net) or the church office.
THANK YOU FOR CONSIDERING!

7/28/11 We're Looking for Ushers! HOW ABOUT YOU! You can contact Molly Harpel or the church office.

1st Communion Instruction Given to Three in July Due to special needs, three members of the parish completed this course. They were Anna and Jordan Northcott and Myranda McQuaid. The Northcotts will be returning to Sarajevo, Bosnia and Myranda will be rejoining her mother who is out of the area. 1st. communion instruction is normally held in October!

Mary/Martha Circle meets on July 19 at 7:00PM in the Lounge. Remember to read Lesson 4 in Cultivating a Life of Character by Elizabeth George.

We will also be collecting the LOVE OFFERING for the Convention. In Kind Gifts Boxes have been placed in each Narthex for those than can help with small personal-size feminine products for the Women's Convention. All items collected will be coming back to benefit our Women's Shelter. If anyone or a group of people would like to donate a gift basket for the Silent Auction to benefit Lutheran World Relief that would be appreciated! See the newsletter for more information.

"SUNDAE SUNDAY" - $200 contributed for the Grove Center- Thanks to all!!Join Us For Ice Cream 7/24 We are celebrating "Sundae" Sunday following each worship service. In Luther Hall everything you will need to make a "sundae" is available. The church wants to help all of you take a few minutes to celebrate summer and enjoy church fellowship. A "free-will offering" will be taken for the Grove Center.

Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation Class (CPR) July 14th 10AM-2PM in Luther Hall Linda McQuaid is the instructor. Cost $10 Class size is limited so SIGN UP NOW!

THANK YOU EVERYONE WHO HELPED! Thank you to all who participated in the two fellowship meals we hosted this week for deceased members and their families. The food was wonderful and the kitchen assistance outstanding. You witnessed in a wonderful way to our mission to serve one another!

Special Worship Services Coming! NEXT SUNDAY July 10– 8:30 and 11:00AM There will be hymn singing and special musical accompaniment by Paul Wangerin, Heather Watkins and Jerry Crites before and during both services that day.

Special Worship Services Coming! July 10th – 8:30 and 11:00AM There will be hymn singing and special musical accompaniment by Paul Wangerin, Heather Watkins and Jerry Crites before and during both services that day.

Sunday School will go on summer break June 19th. See you again on Sunday, September 12 for RALLY DAY!

St. John's Choirs on Summer Break The final performance of our choirs will be Sunday, June 25th. Rehearsals will begin again in August.

We have "gone through the roof!" Thank you to ALL who contributed to the Roof Fund, making it possible to pay for the roof repairs without taking funds from our endowment fund. Total Given: $18,815.00!We have received $5,862 from Thrivent Choice members. (updated 5/20/11)

The Work on the Storage Building and
Sidewalk Is Complete!
Please take a few minutes to take a look!

St. John’s Mother and Father of the Year!
Our Mother and Father of the Year were both absent last week and their recognition has been delayed to an approprite time. More information will be coming. In the Narthexes are gifts for all our mothers and fathers who did not receive one last week. The small gifts are for fathers. Size is not significant!Mother and Father of the Year Celebration and Activities Sunday – June 19th 9:45AM during the Sunday School hour

Summer Camp Season Is Coming SCHOLARSHIPS to Camp Caroline Furnace are available Flyers are on the bulletin board in Luther Hall. Check them out! The Jesse David Hall Memorial Fund We would like to continue remembering Jesse with scholarships to Camp Caroline Furnace in honor of the enjoyable times Jesse spent there with FLYTE. If you wish to participate MAKE CHECK PAYABLE TO ST. JOHN'S – JESSE HALL MEMORIAL ON MEMO LINE. THANK YOU! (4/1/11) Japan Earthquake and Tsunami Relief Assistance Flyers are available on the tables in the Narthexes. Checks can be made to St. John's with "Earthquake" in the memo and we will forward them. $460 received by 4/24/11 Link to Lutheran Disaster Response to Japan Earthquake and Tsunami

2011 CONFIRMANDS Zachary Blackall and Jenna Taylor THANK YOU CONFIRMATION SPONSORS Kandi Ruth is sponsoring Jenna Taylor and Teddy Roberts is sponsoring Zachary Blackall.

Sunday School Carpet Vote 106 For 3 Against to approve spending not more than $6,000 to recarpet two Sunday School rooms.CONGREGATIONAL VOTE ON JUNE 19 The purpose will be to approved spending not more than $6,000 to recarpet two Sunday School rooms.

"Vote"June 5 for St. John's Mother and Father of the Year Celebration and Activities Sunday – June 19th 9:45AM during the Sunday School hour St. John's

West Virginia/Western Maryland Synod Convention This annual meeting of the church takes place the first weekend in June (June 3rd and 4th in at the Snowshoe resort. St. John's is entitled to three delegates. If you are interested contact the church office this week.

CHICKEN BARBECUE DINNER – Next Friday, June 3rd – 5:00PM-6:30PM Turn in your reservation by Tuesday, May 31st. The proceeds will benefit the Mustard Seed Early Learning Center's Summer activities.

Vote Now for Mother and Father of the Year! Ballots can be obtained in the church office. Please remember that past recipients are not eligible. If you are unsure of past recipients, their names on the plaques in the hallway of Luther Hall. Mother/Father of the Year Program This program will take place on Sunday, June 19th during the Sunday School hour in the main room of Luther Hall Sunday

School Will Be on Summer Break Our Sunday School will hold its final meeting on Sunday, June 19 and then break for the summer and return Sunday, September 11th at our RALLY DAY Sunday.

RELAY FOR LIFE Activities This year's activities will take place on Saturday and Sunday, June 4 and 5 at Coburn Field located by Martinsburg High School. St. John's will not have a team this year due to our inability to identify a chairperson, however, everyone is encouraged to support the program in every way possible. Contributions from the church this year have been $630.50.

Thank You Confirmation Sponsors This year the following members of our Church Council served as confirmation sponsors: Kandi Ruth sponsored Jenna Nicole Taylor, daughter of Charles and Lori Taylor and Teddy Roberts sponsored Zachary Blackall, son of Scott and Arlene Blackall. Our Choirs on Summer Break The final performance of our choirs will be Sunday, June 26. They will return in September.

Help with Baptismal Stoles Needed Pat Hartley has been providing hand-sewn stoles for the sacrament for a number of years and she needs help from the congregation. Volunteers would need to know how to provide a rolled hem and how to blanket stitch the edges of the stoles. If you are interested or would like more information, please contact Pat Hartley or Linda Riley! THANK YOU! (3/11/11)

he Social Ministry Committee Is Offering a $500 Scholarship This scholarship is available to any member of the church seeking to advance his/her learning. Applications and rules are available in the church office. (2/24/11)

The Council has suggested that the third Sunday each month be designated for "Raise the Roof" and we match our offering for the roof project. Please note if you mark your Scrip requests "Roof" the proceeds will also go towards paying for the roof replacement.

Thank You Easter Lily Committee Thank you Gail Newman and the members of your committee for ordering and arranging the lilies this year. They are beautiful!

New Fencing Addition The new fencing and archway side gate are in place. Again we need to thank Ned Feltner and Buddy Newman for their stewardship of time and care in overseeing this project.

Mother/Child Banquet Is Tuesday, May 17th at 6:30PM The men of the church will be preparing the meal. If you are interested please contact Ron Weinrich at 262-1745.

Graduate Sunday in May We want to recognize our graduates on Sunday, May 22nd at both worship services. Please take a few minutes to notify the church office of your graduate. Thanks

Church Council Retreat Saturday, March 5th, 14 members of the council met at the Coffinberger home to make plans for this year in the areas of stewardship and evangelism. Thank you each member for your help!! If you are interested in helping in these areas, contact the church office.(3/11/11)

Easter Choir Cantata – Sunday, May 8 It Is Well with My Soul Both adult choirs will sing at both services!4/9/11

Congregational Meeting – May 1 The purpose of the meeting is to seek congregational approval to spend not more than $6,500 to purchase and place a storage shed in the parking lot and to construct a sidewalk from the kitchen in Luther Hall to the parking lot. 4/9

The Wedding Service for Jared Stroech and Angela Hipp
will be conducted Saturday, April 30 at the Purple Iris.

SAVE THE DATE… July 10 to 15 - Vacation Bible School "Welcome to the Big Apple, where faith and life connect"

Summer Camp Season Is Coming SCHOLARSHIPS to Camp Caroline Furnace are available Flyers are on the bulletin board in Luther Hall. Check them out!

Remember!! February Is THE BLANKET FUND APPEAL Envelopes are enclosed with this newsletter! For every $5 received Church World Services can purchase a wool or cotton-blend blanket. To a child shivering in the cold, a warm blanket can mean the difference between life and death. To a family whose home lies in rubble, a sturdy blanket offers a small measure of shelter and security. It is so easy to take something as simple as a blanket for granted, however, to a family in need it truly can be the difference between life and death. See the envelope for other options of giving. 3/22/11 $982 received so far

West Virginia/Western Maryland Synod Convention This annual meeting of the church takes place the first weekend in June (June 3rd and 4th in at the Snowshoe resort. St. John's is entitled to three delegates. If you are interested contact the church office this week.

Relay for Life Our Lively Lutheran Team is in Need of a Leader or Two. You would be attending a few organizational meetings and organizing our team for the day of the event. There are plenty of people willing to help you! See Linda Riley or call the church office.(2/23/11)

Mother/Child Banquet Is Tuesday, May 17th at 6:30PM The men of the church will be preparing the meal. If you are interested please contact Ron Weinrich at 262-1745.

Thank You Easter Lily Committee Thank you Gail Newman and the members of your committee for ordering and arranging the lilies this year. They are beautiful!

Please Welcome Our New Choir Director Heather Watkins has begun her duties and is preparing Easter Music. If you are interested in joining the choir please contact Heather soon. In addition to special Easter Sunday music an Easter cantata is being prepared. Easter Choir Cantata – Sunday, May 8 It Is Well with My Soul Both adult choirs will sing at both services!

Book Club News We will be reading Look Again by Lisa Scottoline this time. We will meet on May 1st at the Coffinbergers'.(3/11/11)

Japan Earthquake and Tsunami Relief Assistance Flyers are available on the tables in the Narthexes. Checks can be made to St. John's with "Earthquake" in the memo and we will forward them. (3/25/11)

Don Smith etal would like to organize a "junior' FLYTE group at St. John's. It has been suggested that the group could be composed of children from grades 3 through 7. An exploratory meeting with parents and children will be held after Second Service April 3 to discuss this need. THERE WILL BE PIZZA AT THE MEETING.(3/24/11)

Scrip Alert! Great Lakes Scrip (the company we order the gift cards from) will be closed for system maintenance April 4-8; therefore, no scrip orders will be taken the week of April 4. Please plan accordingly as the last day to order scrip will be Sunday, March 27. We will begin taking scrip orders again on Sunday, April 10. (3/16/11)

St. John's Women of the ELCA will host a Corned Beef and Cabbage Dinner Sunday, March 20th Come to Luther Hall following second service A Free-Will Offering will be taken; proceeds after expenses will go toward the refrigerator fund. (2/28/11)

Card Shower Please help John Coffinberger celebrate his 90th birthday next Sunday, March 27th, by remembering him with a card. Send to 253 Brookdale Avenue, Martinsburg, 25401(3/16/11)

The Sunday School will be presenting an Easter program on May 1 from 9:45 to 10:45 (between church services). There are parts available for up to 40 people. The following is the schedule for the initial meeting and rehearsals. Initial meeting: Sunday March 13 after second service. Rehearsal: Tuesday, April 12, 6 PM to 8 PM. Final rehearsal: Saturday, April 30, 9 AM untiL .. (3/6/11)

THANK YOU TO OUR "SPECIAL" HOSTS The following members opened up their homes and graciously welcomed members of the Concordia Choir: the Ruths, Murphys, Temples, DeAlexandros, Susan George, Peggy Anderson, Pat Hartley, the Aikenses, Roberts, Gambinos, Loshs and the Woods.2/25/11

On Sunday, March 6, after 2nd service, we will gather to work on some things for VBS. Anyone is welcome to come help. We will be starting to create various decorations, etc. Please e-mail Erica and Danny with any questions you may have atdnepropst@frontier.com. 3/1/11

2/28/11- The Lutheran Youth Group will sponsor a Café Flambé Dinner Theatre on the following dates all at 5-7PM March 6, 2011 Trinity Lutheran Church, Arden March 13, 2011 St John's Lutheran Church, Martinsburg March 20, 2011 Men's Club ,Shepherdstown Suggested donation $5 -10yrs or younger, $10 -11 yrs and older Menu: Spaghetti, Salad, Garlic Bread and Dessert Contact Alan Temple @304.263-4661 or scoter @comcast.net

2/24/11The Social Ministry Committee Is Offering a $500 Scholarship This scholarship is available to any member of the church seeking to advance his/her learning. Applications and rules are available in the church office.

2/13/2011 New Choir Director Chosen- Mrs. Heather A. Watkins of Martinsburg will be our new director of adult choirs beginning March 30 th Heather has had extensive musical and directing . experience with a number of musical groups. She was recently director of the Hedgesville High School show choir.

2/7/2011 $525 was contributed for Souper Bowl of Caring on Sunday, February 6th. Approximately 118 attended the Annual Meeting!! Donations will go to feed the needy through 2 or 3 different agencies, including Friends Feeding Friends.

Vacation Bible School Planning Meeting Wednesday, February 16th,2011 at 6:30PM in Luther Hall Anyone interested in helping in any way is invited! If you can't make the meeting but wish to participate, contact Erica Propst at dnepropst@frontier.com. "Welcome to the Big Apple, where faith and life connect"

Thrivent Choice Voting -Pastor Neal, a chapter leader of our local Pan Handle VA WV Chapter of Thrivent Choice is urging all Thrivent members to vote in the Second Thrivent Choice Voting Event now underway. Members can vote online at www.Thrivent.com/choicevote, by calling 800-THRIVENT (800-847-4836) and say "Thrivent Choice", or by returning the business reply card found in the current Thrivent magazine. Organizations are Bethesda Lutheran Communities, Feeding America, Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service, Lutheran Services in America, Orphan Grain Train, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, or Wheat Ridge Ministries. Additional information for each can be found in the Winter 2011 Thrivent Magazine or at the Thrivent web site. The web site has descriptions, organizational charts, percent administrative cost and voting results so far for each organization. PLEASE VOTE. 2/15/11

Remember!! February 2011 Is THE BLANKET FUND APPEAL Envelopes are enclosed with this newsletter! For every $5 received Church World Services can purchase a wool or cotton-blend blanket. To a child shivering in the cold, a warm blanket can mean the difference between life and death. To a family whose home lies in rubble, a sturdy blanket offers a small measure of shelter and security. It is so easy to take something as simple as a blanket for granted, however, to a family in need it truly can be the difference between life and death. See the envelope for other options of giving.

Jan 2011 COOKIE DRIVE We will again participate in the Hospice Cookie Drive for Valentine's Day. Pink sign-up sheets are in each narthex and the Lounge. Please have your cookies in the Lounge by noon Monday, February 7th.

ALTAR FLOWER DATES Thanks to everyone who signed up for flowers. However, we still have several dates available. If anyone is interested, please contact Gail Newman at 304-579-4983 or GMN9153@comcast.net Open dates: May 15 and 22; June 26; July 10, 24, and 31; September 18; October 16 and 23; December 4 and 11. Thanks, Brad Coffinberger and Gail Newman

1/15/2011Choir Director Search There were a number of candidates and two interviews have been conducted. An announcement will come early in February about our new director of choirs.

New Members: Please welcome with open arms, the following new members into St. John’s Congregation.
January 23, 2011 Anne and Larry Moore
January 30, 2011 Mindi Thatcher

Through your generosity, we were able to sent $1,172 from Harvest Home Offerings to the National Lutheran Home in Rockville, Maryland.

12/2011Worship Tape Coordinator Needed This person is responsible for collecting worship tapes each week and copying them for shut-in members. All materials are provided. We need your energy and dedication to share the WORD. Children's

12/2011 Sermons Are Beginning Again- Jennifer Moss will lead the first service and Andrew Banks will lead the second service. Volunteers are welcome. See Andrew! NEEDED: Metal coffee/large juice cans for altar flowers. You can put them in the sacristy or drop off in Luther Hall. THANKS

1/21/11 Adult Sunday School Class meets in Luther Hall Studying selected ELCA Social Statements, beginning with"Health and Healthcare- Caring for Health: Our Shared EndeavorAdult January 23, 2011 Linda McQuaid- 'Blood Pressure'

1//21/11 Concordia Lutheran Choir February 24th at 7PM We are looking for 12 host families for the night of February 24th. You are being asked to also provide breakfast the following morning. There are 15 women (6 groups of 2 and 1 group of three). There are 10 men (5 groups of 2). There are two adults (the director and accompanist). Call Pastor Riley or the office for more information.

2/1/11 Poinsettia Report This year 92 plants were placed in the Chancel area of the church. Kristi Davis along with Sherri Feltner and Traci Harden arranged the plants beautifully. Additionally $1,237 was contributed by those in the congregation who preferred not to give a memorial plant but wished to contribute. These funds will be used for the Friends Feeding Friends

2/1/11 Church Envelopes Are Still Available They are in the Lounge in Luther Hall and the doors are unlocked! Please pick up yours and help us avoid the postage fee for mailing. THANKS!

ANNUAL REPORTS from all treasurers, chairpersons of committees and presidents of organizations were due by Sunday, January 23rd. The Booklet of Reports will then be available for the Annual Meeting on Sunday, February 6th. Lunch will be provided by the church followed by the meeting. The luncheon for the annual meeting will once again be hosted by members of FLYTE and consist of various soups and desserts.

Thank You Newman and Moss Families! These two families have been responsible for cleaning the sidewalks of the church and we need to recognize their contribution to the church. Without their help we wouldn't be able to hold worship services safely. THANK YOU!

1/21/11 THANK YOU… We would like to extend our sincere thanks to everyone who brought a coat or any item in for the homeless project that we were helping Karen Valentine with. We believe our church is full of some of the most giving and compassionate people we know. So, again, thank you so very much. Don and Angela Hasselman

1/21/11 Mitten Tree Report 35 hats, 30 pairs of gloves/mittens and 9 scarves were sent to C-CAP for distribution. Thanks everyone for your generosity!

1/16/11 ANNUAL REPORTS from all treasurers, chairpersons of committees and presidents of organizations will be due by Sunday, January 23rd. The Booklet of Reports will then be available for the Annual Meeting on Sunday, February 6th. Lunch will be provided by the church followed by the meeting.The luncheon for the annual meeting will once again be hosted by members of FLYTE and consist of various soups and desserts.

1/15/11Please let us know if you would be willing to write a short (1/2 page) devotional for Lent! We will contact you by January 23 with scripture; the devotional will be due by Sunday, February 6, 2011. So far, 30 people have either indicated in the Covenants or by contacting us that they write a Lent Devotional for 2011. We need 40 total.Phone church office or contact Doris or Bill Agee (ageebill@aol.com or 304.267.7772) or use the sign-up sheet available in the Narthex

$1,795 in contributions from St. John's sent to Haiti ELCA Disaster Relief. A report from LWR is found at http://www.lwr.org/news/news.asp?LWRnewsDate=7/12/2010# 12/2010

Jan 2011 CCAP/Loaves and Fishes Seek New Volunteer Staff The departure of one of the co-directors of L & F, and the pending departure of our organization's current Treasurer has created positions that need to be filled as soon as possible, in order to continue to serve the needs of the community and help the less fortunate cross the bridge to self sufficiency. We rely totally on volunteers and need the support of your time, empathy and good will to continue our mission. CCAP/Loaves and Fishes is seeking inspired and committed individuals to join us. If interested, please call Paula Hoachlander at 304.582.4888 or email her at ccappaula@comcast.net.

HELP NEEDED!!! Acolytes and Crucifers Needed! (ESPECIALLY FIRST SERVICE!!!)Our list is depleted by birthdays, transfers and a hundred other reasons. We need young people to serve in this important way in the church. Acolytes should be in 1st through 6th grades, although special arrangements may be made. Crucifers should be in the 7th grade and above. If you are interested in joining these two areas of service, contact the Director Mike Noll (267-6383 of mnoll@hughes.net) or the church office. THANK YOU FOR CONSIDERING! We're Looking for Ushers! How About YOU!! Information in newsletter- call church office

1/13/2011 Hospital Notes: John Coffinberger was admitted to Meritus Hospital Hagerstown 1/12 with pneumonia and cardiac irregularities. .Karen Dunn had her colon removed. Sam Boynton has returned home from City Hospital and is doing better. Please keep these people an their families in your thoughts and prayers
1/21/11 John Coffinberger is in rehab andhopes to be home next week

1/21/11COOKIE DRIVE We will again participate in the Hospice Cookie Drive for Valentine's Day. Pink sign-up sheets are in each narthex and the Lounge. Please have your cookies in the Lounge by Monday, February 7th.

1/21/11BOOK CLUB NEWS Our next book to read is Raising Rain by Debbie Fuller Thomas. We will meet on March 6 at the Coffinbergers.

1/9/11 Thank You Newman and Moss Families! These two families have been responsible for cleaning the sidewalks of the church and we need to recognize their contribution to the church. Without their help we wouldn't be able to hold worship services safely. THANK YOU!

1/9/11 Choir Director Search There were a number of candidates and two interviews have been conducted. An announcement will come early in January about our new director of choirs.

Adult Sunday School Class meets in Luther Hall Studying selected ELCA Social Statements, beginning with"Health and Healthcare- Caring for Health: Our Shared Endeavor"Sunday, January 9 Kathy Campbell, Hospice Linda Gillet will have a special coffee hour after first service for Lutheran World Relief on Sunday January 9. She plans on having several different coffees.

January 8: 11AM Celebration of Life of Dudley Brown Saturday at St. John's Lutheran Church, followed by Fellowship Luncheon in Luther Hall

1/2/11 On Sunday, November 28th (2011) Roger Lee Thatcher, III and Hunter James Thather were baptised in St. John's. They are the sons of Melinda Rene Thatcher and James Michael Esswein and grandsons of our member Carlton Esswein.

12/25/10 THANK YOU Kristi Davis, Sherri Feltner and Traci Harden for the wonderful job of arranging our poinsettias!
THANK YOU Choirs for all your hard work in Christmas Eve special music. Thank you Jennifer Moss for your work with our young people and thank you Jerry Crites for your work with the adults.

1/9/11Through your generosity, we were able to sent $1,172 from Harvest Home Offerings to the National Lutheran Home in Rockville, Maryland.

1/9/11 Poinsettia Report This year 92 plants were placed in the Chancel area of the church. Kristi Davis along with Sherri Feltner and Traci Harden arranged the plants beautifully. Additionally $1,237 was contributed by those in the congregation who preferred not to give a memorial plant but wished to contribute. Theses funds will be used for the Friends Feeding Friends

12/22/10Ellen Albright passed away after a long illness.. The funeral will be at Rosedale Funeral Home Friday December 24 at 11AM, followed by a fellowship luncheon at Luther Hall.

12921910 ANNUAL REPORTS from all treasurers, chairpersons of committees and presidents of organizations will be due by Sunday, January 23rd. The Booklet of Reports will then be available for the Annual Meeting on Sunday, February 6th.

12/21/10Choir Director Search There were a number of candidates and two interviews have been conducted. An announcement will come early in January about our new director of choirs.

12/21/10Church Envelopes Are Still Available They are in the Lounge in Luther Hall and the doors are unlocked! Please pick up yours and help us avoid the postage fee for mailing. THANKS!

12/26/10 Worship Tape Coordinator Needed This person is responsible for collecting worship tapes each week and copying them for shut-in members. All materials are provided. We need your energy and dedication to share the WORD.

On Sunday, December 19, 2010, we welcomed into membership at St. John's new members, Marianne and Bryan Chen and their children, Conner and Christopher. Please make them feel at home as they worship with us.

10/1/11 We want to recognize in the very near future those of our members serving in the military in Afghanistan. We also hope you will be able to share an address we might use. 9/22 Our choir member, Millie Gilbert, whose son is serving in Afghanistan, is collecting small toys, hard candy and similar items to give to the children in the villages. These items need to be small enough to fit in his pockets. Should you care to donate, there will be a box in the Chapel or you may leave them in the northex.

On Sunday, December 19, 2010, Pastor Riley dedicated a new Altar Edition of the Lutheran Book Of Worship. The LBW was given by Elaine Bennett in honor of past, present and future Members of St. John's and in remembrance of her husband Nelson Bennett.

On Saturday, December 18, 2010, Amber Post and Chad Braithwaite were joined in matrimony at St. John's. Amber attends First Service and is a student at Shepherd University.

The Adult Sunday School Class will meet in the main room of Luther Hall on Sunday durning November at 9:45AM. We will be studying the Disciples, for12/5 Judas and Matthias. Pastor Riley will teach

Women's Christmas Lunch We will meet at Heatherfield's at 11:45AM on December 14th. We will collect articles for the Humane Society (cat & dog food, wet & dry, paper towels, inexpensive towels or blankets, tarps, flea meds, bathing supplies, litter, etc.)

Sunday School Food Project Results A total of 443 pounds of food was delivered to Loaves and Fishes on Monday morning. Thrivent matched this with a gift of $200. Many Thanks to everyone who participated and a special thanks to Pastor Neal for the delivery service!

Eastridge Grove Center Christmas Bazaar Saturday, December 4th 270 Cumbo Rd., behind James Rumsey Tech School Shop, Visit Santa, Have a snack. There will be a bake sale, a raffle, the 50/50 & door prizes. All proceeds will benefit the folks of the Center.

Marsha Martin was welcomed into membership at St. John's Sunday November 28, 2010. She sings in the Matins Choir with her sister Linda McQuaid. Marsha is a nurse at The VA Hospital in Martinsburg.the class.

WOMEN IN THE FAST LANE - CHANGE in Christmas movie date - it will now be on SATURDAY, DECEMBER 11 at 10:00 AM in Luther Hall. Please come and watch a variety of Christmas movies! We will order pizza. Bring your own drinks and a snack to share,. It is a fun relaxing day and way to spend some times w/ friends and church family. Hoping to see you

Remember to Turn in Your Covenants It is from these documents that we find volunteers for our committees, worship readers and communion assistants, and council and trustee nominees. Without volunteers there would be no church! We need your help in providing leadership for the church in 2011.

11/28/10 The following candidates were elected to the church council: Linda Gillet Michael Janney Jane Kelly Lori Taylor Paul Wangerin Buddy Newman was elected to a term as Trustee. Thank you to all who agreed to be candidates. We appreciate your willingness to serve.

Beverly Ann Widmeyer Kenny, died on Monday, Oct. 11, 2010, at City Hospital. Beverly suffered with breast cancer. A Memorial Service will be held Friday, October 15, 2010 at St. John's Lutheran Church at 1:00 PM. Marlo Barnhart passed away this morning, October 13, 2010. A Memorial Service will be held Monday, October 18, 2010 at St. John's Lutheran Church at 11:00 AM.

_____________________________________________________________________________

10/3/2011 The sacrament of Holy Baptism will be administered during the 8:30AM service to Daniel Cole Markovits, son of our members Corey and Jennifer Markovits.

Jennifer Markovits was accepted into membership, Sunday September 5, 2010 by letter of Transfer. She and her husband, Corey, are the parents of 3 sons, Corey, Nicholas and Daniel
The Sacrament of Holy Baptism was administered 8/8 to Riley Blake Kilmer, daughter of Derek and Tiffany Kilmer and sister of Bryce.
The Sacrament of Holy Baptism The sacrament will be administered to Kaylee Ava Lore Saturday July 31in St. John's. Kaylee is the daughter of Michelle Dawn Smith Lore and Kevin Matthew Lore.
7/25/10 welcome Mrs. Peggy L. Anderson into membership. Peggy is joining us by Letter of Transfer from Crusader Lutheran Church in Rockville, Maryland.
New addition: Donald BRYAR Moss born to proud parents Jennifer and Brad Moss,Wednesday May 12, 2010
Connor James Herbert was baptized during the second service 5/2/210
March 21, 2010 – Keith Riley Curry Vogel, son of our member Tyler Jordan Vogel and Sarah Almedra Curry in St. John's. Keith is grandson of members Jonathan and Heather Edwards.
The Sacrament was administered April 17 at St. John’s to Alexandra Nicole Haarman, daughter of Barbara Jean Haarman and granddaughter of our members John and Deborah Haarman.
The sacrament was administered this weekend (2/27)to Keith Riley Curry Vogel, son of Tyler Vogel and Sarah Curry.
The sacrament was administered also to James Edgar Crockett, IV, son James Crockett, III and Melissa Crockett.
January 31 We welcome Judy Hinnerichs into our fellowship. She comes to us by from Evangelical Lutheran Church, Frederick, MD. by Letter of transfer
January 24 We Welcome New Members January 24 - Mr.. and Mrs. Jamie F. Ferenchick (Amanda J.) Agee

2 new additions to St. John's family: Mason Edward Janney- son of Allison and Michael and brother of Peyton born today (4/29). And born yesterday, Audrey Victoria Leitzke, daughter of Reverends Tim and Emily Leitzke , granddaughter of Arlene and Peter Leitzke

619 Marriage of Dr. Adria Hartman and Dr. Jonathan Mobley.
6/12 The marriage of Allison Lynn Losh and Kevin Edward Flynn
6/6 Stroech-Brooks Wedding
_______________________________________________________________________________________________-___

Nov 28- Election for Council & Trustee Council Nominees: Michael Calabrese, Linda Gillet, Michael Janney, Jane Kelley, Valerie Link, Lori Taylor, Pau; Wangerin (elect 5) Trustee: David Gatrell, Buddy Newman

PIE SOCIAL –Sunday, November 21 After both services in Luther Hall Bring your favorite pie and share some pre-Thanksgiving dessert and fellowship. Sponsored by the Social Ministry Committee.

Operation Christmas Child Shoeboxes will be collected through Nov. 21st. Labels will be available in the Lounge and the boxes may be left there. For more info call Laura Jenkins (304-263-1408) or Christine Smith (304-754-3147).

Confirmation Classes begin Sunday, November 7 at 4PM!
Classes are for 8th and 9th graders.

Read About a wonderful project by Chance Arensberg in Journal 10/27 http://www.journal-news.net/page/content.detail/id/550510/Hedgesville-student-leads-Halloween-food-drive.html CCAP/Loaves and Fishes Seek New Volunteer Staff see below

Invitation to an Anniversary Celebration -Please join us at the Stewardship dinner on October 31. In addition to our regular business, we will celebrate the 40th anniversary of Pastor Riley's ordination. Come and join us in celebrating this achievement. It's a wonderful opportunity to express our appreciation.

Confirmation Classes begin Sunday, November 7 at 4PM! Classes are for 8th and 9th graders.

WOMEN OF THE ELCA Soup and Sandwich Sale Friday Nov 5- 10AM – 3PM Eat-In or Carry-Out. Craft & Bake Sale, too. Come Enjoy! Donations Needed… Craft Items & Baked Goods for Friday. PLEASE HELP WHERE YOU CAN!

Congregational Meeting on the Budget Sunday, October 31 – 12:15PM in Luther Hall 10/31 Budget approved

The church fair will be held Sunday, November 7, in Luther Hall between services and after second service. There will be displays by church committees, Youth choir, Bible School, Women of the Church, Friends feeding Friends and much more. Blood pressures and blood sugar tests will be available compliments of RESA VIII and Martinsburg Fire Department. Refreshments will be served. Please come and enjoy the activities

11/14/10 FOOD DRIVE NON-PERISHABLE ITEMS Who: Sponsored by Women in the Fast Lane & St. John's Lutheran Church Sunday School When: October 17, October 24, October 31, November 7, and November 14 Where: To Assembly Room in Luther Hall; put items in marked boxes What: Any non-perishable food items Why: Our local food pantries are in dire need of food for our local friends/ neighbors who do not have any or enough This is a challenge – all participants can participate in a Sunday School Pajama Party on Sunday, January 23, 2011, during Sunday School time and possibly going into time of 2nd service. Drinks and treats will be provided by Women in the Fast Lane. Winner of the challenge will be announced on November 21, 2010. Prize for winning class to be decided.

NOV 2010 THE BOOK CLUB The selection for the November 14th meeting is Same Kind of Different As Me by Ron Hall and Denver Moore. We will be at the Coffinbergers; you are welcome to bring a bag lunch and visit before our 1PM meeting.Thrivent Vote and Coffee Hour - November 14th The Thrivent Vote will take place after both services in the elevator Narthex. Thrivent Panhandle Chapter will also provide a Coffee Hour during Sunday School that day in the Chapel. Memberships to the National Lutheran Home Auxiliary These are available through November 14th. Jane Kelley or Becky Roberts will be in the Narthex by the elevator each week.

9/10 Community Service Project Need Our cemetery committee is looking for youth volunteers to help with the church's property near Brown Funeral Home. The work involves removing debris, rock and fallen tree limbs. Contact the pastor, Ned Feltner or the church office.

10/1 We want to recognize in the very near future those of our members serving in the military in Afghanistan. We also hope you will be able to share an address we might use. 9/22 Our choir member, Millie Gilbert, whose son is serving in Afghanistan, is collecting small toys, hard candy and similar items to give to the children in the villages. These items need to be small enough to fit in his pockets. Should you care to donate, there will be a box in the Chapel or you may leave them in the northex.

Children's Sermons Are Beginning Again- Jennifer Moss will lead the first service and Andrew Banks will lead the second service. Volunteers are welcome. See Andrew!

THE BOOK CLUB The selection for the November 14th meeting is Same Kind of Different As Me by Ron Hall and Denver Moore. We will be at the Coffinbergers; you are welcome to bring a bag lunch and visit before our 1PM meeting.

June 2010 At the West Virginia/Maryland synod convention, our member Paul Wangerin was elected to serve on the synod council for a three-year term and was also elected to serve on the Board of the Lutheran Seminary at Gettysbury West Virginia/Western Maryland Synod Convention This annual meeting of the church takes place the first weekend in June

FALL 2010This year the Blanket Fund received $865 in gifts. Thank you so much for your generosity in sharing with the poor! These gifts are forwarded to Church World Service who in turn provides blankets, food and medicine to third-world countries. The Jesse Hall Memorial Fund received $380 which will be shared with Camp Caroline Furnace, a camp Jesse enjoyed greatly. Jesse basically grew up in our congregation and was a wonderful young man. His death was sudden, and oh too soon! Thanks to everyone for remembering him in such a terrific way.

A special thanks to New Altar Guild Chair – Gail Newman. She can be reached at 304-579-4983 If you are interested in being a guild member please contact Gail soon!. Thanks! OPEN FLOWER DATES: October 17th and December 12th

BECKY ROBERTS Has Volunteered to Serve as the Church Archivist! Her duties will begin January 1, 2011. All requests for church history, parish records information and family tree information should be directed to her. The telephone number is 304-260-0064.

CONGRATUALTIONS! ANDREA PRYTZ Andrea was elected to a second two-year term on the Synodical Board and she also will be co-editing the Lutheran Lines, the synodical newsletter

Sept 2010 In the past year the web site had and average of 192 daily hits, representing 22 different countries!!

ONE+Plus Kits This is the In-Kind Project for the Women's Convention, which will be August 6 & 7 in Wheeling. If anyone or a group would like to participate, information about the contents is on the tables in the Narthexes & our bulletin board in Luther Hall. Community Lutheran Partners then distribute these to disaster areas. Your help would be appreciated. Please bring to the Lounge by August 1.

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL A very special thanks to Erica and her team of helpers for a really successful VBS!! (I understand plans are starting for 2011 already)

Juky 2010 Bounty Table The table is located in the chapel. If you have extra produce from your garden and you want to share with your fellow members, please bring your item and place them on the table. And THANK YOU for sharing.

A Ritual Edition of the Evangelical Lutheran Worship Wanted The ELCA just recently released this worship assistant and priced it at $150. Anyone interested in giving this aid to the church is asked to contact the church office or the Pastor. More specific information on this item is in the October newsletter.

Four Purificators Presented to the Church Karen Middleton just recently presented this gift to the church in remembrance of her parents Charles and Kitty Mundey. Purificators are small pieces of linen used during communion to wipe the chalice during distribution of the wine.

Congregational Meeting Sunday, August 29th You are asked to take action on a Church Council recommendation that we replace the main roof and guttering on the church for an amount not to exceed $40,000. "Raise the Roof" Fund The Church Council also authorized the creation of a fund to help defray the expense of replacing the church roof. This fund is similar to the one created when repaired the elevator. In anticipation of a positive vote on the Council recommendation to replace the church roof, the Council established this fund to help defray the cost of the project without relying entirely on the church endowment fund. You may contribute in whatever way you choose, weekly, monthly or a one-time gift. Please mark your check for "the roof" so the treasurer can record it properly. APPROVED BY CONGREGATIONAL VOTE 8/29/2010

The Sacrament of Holy Baptism was administered 8/810 to Riley Blake Kilmer, daughter of Derek and Tiffany Kilmer and sister of Bryce.
Kaylee Ava Lore was baptized on July31
Saturday 6/19 The marriage of Dr. Adria Hartman and Dr. Jonathan Mobley.

6/12 The marriage of Allison Lynn Losh and Kevin Edward Flynn 6/6 Stroech-Brooks Wedding

Budget requests for 2011 need to be submitted to the church office by September 19th

St. John's Women of the ELCA Invite You To A SALAD SUPPER September 21, 2010 6:30PM in Luther Hall Just bring a salad and enjoy a time of fellowship and seeing everybody after the summer break! PROGRAM Everybody Has a Story Beverly McDonald from Trinity, Arden will be our guest and help share highlights from the convention. All circle members and women of the church are invited to attend!

Recognition of Graduates – Sunday, May 30 (both services) Graduates HIGH SCHOOL Joseph Reidy, Hedgesville; Tyler Vogel, Martinsburg; Logan Crowley, Martinsburg POST GRADUATE DEGREE Jennifer Moss – Master's Degree in Educational Leadership from Grand Canyon University; Jonathan Edwards – Master's Degree in Business Education from the Univesity of Phoenix.

A total of $251.00 was donated during the Ice Cream Social, July 25. Thank you for the generosity!
RELAY FOR LIFE Report We need to thank Millie Dunmire for her work in heading up our participation in this year's event. Eighteen members of the parish were included on our team Lively Lutherans and the congregation collected $2,684.53 from all sources. Thanks to everyone!
___________

MAY 23 Pentecost Sunday And Confirmation ONE WORSHIP SERVICE AT 10AM Special Sunday School Session At 9am Please Join Us! This year's confirmands and their sponsors are: Tyler Gambino (Andrew Banks), Zachary Grove (Mary Nicole Bennett), Logan Murphy (Linda McQuaid) and Travis Propst (Scott Wood).

Relay for Life Registration Forms are available in the Narthexes, the church office, or see Millie Dunmire. All monies collected, or donations, are due by May 16th; checks should be marked "Relay For Life".

Thank You Easter Lily Committee Thank you Gail Newman and the members of your committee for ordering and arranging the lilies this year. They are beautiful!

4/8/10 The Jesse David Hall Memorial Funds will go toward scholarships to Camp Caroline Furnace in honor of the enjoyable times Jesse spent there with FLYTE. Please mark your envelope or memo line of check “for Jesse”.

Lenten Self-Denial Folders Included with the March newsletter is your family's Lenten Self-Denial folder. You are encouraged to give a small gift (25¢) each day in remembrance of our Lord's sacrifice on the cross for your sins. Part of our Lenten discipline should be a purposeful attempt to limit our lives in some way to enable our Lord's gift of his life on Good Friday to become more meaningful to us. The monies received from this project will go to benefit a number of community charities. At least half of your gifts will go to benefit Relay for Life and the other half will be shared with the Martinsburg Rescue Mission. I want to invite each of you to participate in this opportunity to learn more of Lent and giving. Pastor Riley To date $1,4353.05 has been received. -

Easter Memorials Given in Lieu of Flowers The monies raised through this portion of our Easter lily flower project will see their gifts split in the following ways: half of all monies received will go to Hospice of the Panhandle, a quarter will be given to Bethany House (Community Network) and a quarter to the Children’s Shelter. A total of $643 has been given in lieu of flowers. Hospice of the Panhandle will receive one half and Bethany House and the Children’s Shelter will receive one fourth each. THANK YOU FOR YOUR GENEROSITY!

We dedicated these beautiful new additions to our worship area. This was the conclusion of an effort that started in January, 2007 and ended in December of 2009. We are all indebted to those fellow members who took the time and energy to provide these beautiful kneelers. The following members were responsible for sharing their talent: Elaine Bennett, Pat Hartley, Bernice Windholz, Pat Weinrich, Lori Taylor, Jean Rector, Gail Newman, Sally Schendel, and Robin Klonarides (Sally Schendel’s daughter). The project was chaired by Pat Weinrich and the cost of the effort was underwritten by Elaine Bennett and Sue Boslau.

3/28/10 SUNDAY SCHOOL 9:45AM CLASSES FOR ALL AGES
The adult Sunday School class meets in the main room of Luther Hall. Sessions are open to everyone. The class is exploring The Lutheran Handbook. Some of the topics to be discussed include: “How to Get to Know Your Pastor,” “How to Survive for One Hour In an Un-Air-Conditioned Church.”

OVER 60 PEOPLE ATTENDED THE ANNUAL MEETING 2/28. President Banks presented the Annual Reports, which were approved. FLYTESouper Bowl raised $263, Thrivent will match with $750 for local need charities. ANNUAL MEETING -SOUPER BOWL pictures

Use of Luther Hall Policy At the February 2010 Council meeting the members approved this motion: “Due to the growth in Luther Hall requests the following has been decided: Luther Hall and its facilities will be limited to use by active members as determined in the church constitution as well as church sponsored groups.

2/ 2010 HAITI Earthquake Relief through ELCA Int'l Disaster Response on line https://community.elca.org/NetCommunity/SSLPage.aspx?pid=538 Other Ways to Give: Check or money orders sent to: ELCA Int'l Disaster Response Attn: Haiti Earthquake Relief PO Box 71764 Chicago, IL 60694-1764 write "Haiti Earthquake Relief" on your check's memo line. Credit card by phone: 800-638-3522 Credit card contributions may also be made via mail. All gifts to this human crisis can be made through the church. Make your check out to St. John’s and in the MEMO section put “disaster relief.” Your gifts will be forward to the ELCA’s Disaster Relief Fund. $1,795 in contributions from St. John's sent to Haiti ELCA Disaster Relief. Thru 2/24 ELCA has received $5.8 million for Haiti and started assistance for Chile.

New Mustard Seed Board Member Mr.. Buddy Newman was appointed to a three-year term this week.(2/22/10).

Children’s Sermon Restart It is time to begin a new schedule of children’s sermons and we are looking for volunteers to provide these five-minute offerings during worship. If you are interested please contact the church office or President Andrew Banks.

Thanks!2009 Thank You Newman and Moss Families These two families have been responsible for cleaning the sidewalks of the church and we need to recognize their contribution to the church. Without their help we wouldn’t be able to hold worship services safely. THANK YOU!

FLYTE Be Sure to click the FLYTE file for information about Operation Christmas Child, “Change for Change”and FLYTE’s experiences at the Gathering in New Orleans

12/25/09 THANK YOU Kristi Davis, Sherri Feltner and Traci Harden for the wonderful job of arranging our poinsettias! THANK YOU Choirs for all your hard work in preparing the Christmas Eve special music. Thank you Jennifer Moss for your work with our young people and thank you Jerry Crites for your work with the adults.
Don’t Forget to Sign Up for Next Year’s Altar Flowers. OPEN ALTAR FLOWER DATES: February 21 & 28; March 14. The Flower Chart is hanging by the elevator; you may sign up for your date, or see Gail Newman or Brad Coffinberger.
2009 Nursery Assistants Wanted As our young children grow and leave the nursery so do their parents and the time they share in watching the young people. We are always in need of new volunteers. If you are interested, please call Susie Smith 754-3147.

On Sunday November 28, 2009, the following were elected to the Congregational Council for a three-year term: Mary Nicole Bennett, Sally Jenkins, Buddy Newman, Connie Reiter, and Don Smith. Roger Wall was reelected for a five-year term to the Trustees. Please thank them for serving the Congregation.

7/24/09 New Sexton Hours Our sexton, John Prytz, is now working under new hours. John will be present daily from 3-7PM. As you can tell, a part of his hours will be after closing time so it is important that you contact him early with requests you may have or contact the church office to leave him a message. Thanks!
Pictures from the 2009 ELCA Youth Gathering "Jesus Justice Jazz" - New Orleans, July 22-26, 2009 From Beth Chapman-FLYTE has an online photo album on photobucket. The link is www.photobucket.com/elcagathering

FLYTE will be going on retreat (3rd World Reality) with several other youth groups in the area next weekend, September 19-20. The purpose is to understand challenges faced by the homeless and by people in the 3rd World. In addition to the learning, there will be service projects undertaken during the retreat. The retreat organizers request the following items. If you have an opportunity, the FLYTE youth would appreciate any donations. Please take your donation of items to Luther Hall by 5 PM on Friday (September 18th). FLYTE will pick up the items then for use during the retreat.
Requested items: Queen size top sheets, Old blankets, Neckties, Shampoo ,Soap, Disposable razors, Deodorant, Toothpaste, Toothbrushes, Shaving cream, Clean jars and lids (quart and pint)

Aug 2009 Proceeds from Ice Cream Social, sponsored by Pat & Ron Weinrich, were over $500. Proceeds from Ice Cream Social to be given to Grove/East Ridge Center. Thrivent will match $420. THE TOTAL IS $942!!!!

7/24/09 The Children’s Sermon portion of our service is on a short Summer break due to schedule conflicts and vacations. They will resume in September. If you would be interested in taking part in this important ministry, please let the church office or Andrew Banks know before Sept. The usual time period is once every seven or eight weeks.

Fourth Sunday of Advent December 18, 2011 WORSHIP SERVICES 8:30AM AND 11:00AM with HOLY COMMUNION "A CANDLELIGHT CHRISTMAS" A Cantata by Benjamin Harlan Combined Choirs at each Service PASTOR JAMES D. RILEY, JR. Sunday School 9:45AM

9:45AM Adult Sunday School- Discussion :CHRITMAS led by Pastor Riley meets in Luther HAll- Coffee will be available

Fourth Sunday of Advent
December 18, 2011
WORSHIP SERVICES 8:30AM AND 11:00AM with HOLY COMMUNION
"A CANDLELIGHT CHRISTMAS"
A Cantata by Benjamin Harlan
Combined Choirs at each Service

PASTOR JAMES D. RILEY, JR.
Sunday School 9:45AM

9:45AM Adult Sunday School- Discussion :CHRITMAS
led by Pastor Riley
meets in Luther HAll-
Coffee will be available