Annual Northeastern Pennsylvania

LUTHER DAY DINNER 2 pm

Sunday, October 18, 2009

Melting Pot

Washburn St. , Scranton

Sponsored by: The Association of Lutheran Friends

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LUTHER’S MORNING AND EVENING PRAYERS Martin Luther wrote two short prayers for individuals and families to use in the morning after waking and in the evening before going to sleep. These lovely prayers, taken from Dr. Luther’s Small Catechism, can help you begin and end each day with the Lord.

Luther's Morning Blessing In the morning, as soon as you get out of bed, you are to make the sign of the holy cross and say: "Under the care of God the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Amen."

Then, kneeling or standing, say the Apostles' Creed and the Lord's Prayer. If you wish, you may recite this little prayer as well:

I give thanks to you, my heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ your dear Son, that you have protected me through the night from all harm and danger and I ask that you would also protect me today from sin and every danger, so that my life and actions may please you. Into your hands I commend my body, my soul, and all that is mine. Let your holy angel be with me, so that the wicked foe may have no power over me. Amen.

After singing a hymn, or whatever else may serve your devotion, you are to go to your work joyfully.

Luther's Evening Blessing In the evening, when you go to bed, you are to make the sign of the holy cross and say: "Under the care of God the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Amen."

Then, kneeling or standing, say the Apostles' Creed and the Lord's Prayer. If you wish you may recite this little prayer as well:

I give thanks to you, my heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ your dear Son, that you have graciously protected me today, and I ask you to forgive me all my sins, where I have done wrong, and graciously to protect me tonight. For into your hands I commend myself: my body, my soul, and all that is mine. Let your holy angel be with me, so that the wicked foe may have no power over me. Amen.

Then you are to go to sleep quickly and cheerfully.

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WELCOME

To A Celebration of

THE REVEREND DOCTOR MARTIN LUTHER

Hosted By

THE ASSOCIATION OF LUTHERAN FRIENDS, INC.

In Cooperation with Congregations Affiliated With The

EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN

CHURCH IN AMERICA

And the

LUTHERAN CHURCH – MISSOURI SYNOD

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THE ASSOCIATION OF LUTHERAN FRIENDS The Association of Lutheran Friends is an unusual, if not unique, gathering of Lutheran individuals (not congregations) who, by their adherence to the Christian faith and their Lutheran heritage, work across denominational lines to educate and build up our congregation, and who strongly believe in extending their personal and collective ministry to the community at large.

One of the responsibilities of A.L.F. is the custody of the Historic Ransom Valley Lutheran Church and Cemetery. Begun by a small group of Lutherans in 1846, a humble building was built where visiting pastors conducted services occasionally until 1910. After that time, the property was maintained by a Cemetery Association, which ceased to exist in the early 1970’s. In 1988 the deplorable condition of the property was brought to public attention and several groups worked to restore it. Capping off that effort with a service of rededication in October of 1989. In 1990 the custody of the property was given to A.L.F. Each year a memorial service is conducted there, and in recent years additional services and programs have been added during the summer months.

One of A.L.F.’s special concerns is education. In addition to our Scholarship program, we have sponsored seminars on Legal Issues for Churches and teaching sessions for Church Treasurers. Our additional services at Ransom Church have had an educational thrust, and of course, this Luther Day Dinner has an important educational component as well as the opportunity for fellowship it provides.

THE STATED MISSION OF THE ASSOCIATION OF LUTHERAN FRIENDS

The Association of Lutheran Friends, a not-for-profit Pennsylvania corporation, provides a forum for cooperation in social ministry, education, and social fellowship involving Lutherans living in Northeastern Pennsylvania. Further, the Association of Lutheran Friends shall strive to stimulate community awareness among its members; and shall foster service to the Church and community at large. Further, the Association of Lutheran Friends shall strive to improve the quality of life for all persons; regardless of race, color, creed, sex, or national origin.

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MARTIN LUTHER’S SEAL

In a July 8, 1530 letter to Lazarus Spengler, Luther interprets his seal:

Grace and peace from the Lord. As you desire to know whether my painted seal, which you sent to me, has hit the mark, I shall answer most amiably and tell you my original thoughts and reason about why my seal is a symbol of my theology. The first should be a black cross in a heart, which retains its natural color, so that I myself would be reminded that faith in the Crucified saves us. "For one who believes from the heart will be justified" (Rom. 10:10). Although it is indeed a black cross, which mortifies and which should also cause pain, it leaves the heart in its natural color. It does not corrupt nature, that is, it does not kill but keeps alive. "The just shall live by faith" (Rom. 1:17) but by faith in the crucified. Such a heart should stand in the middle of a white rose, to show that faith gives joy, comfort, and peace. In other words, it places the believer into a white, joyous rose, for this faith does not give peace and joy like the world gives (John 14:27). That is why the rose should be white and not red, for white is the color of the spirits and the angels (cf. Matt. 28:3; John 20:12). Such a rose should stand in a sky-blue field, symbolizing that such joy in spirit and faith is a beginning of the heavenly future joy, which begins already, but is grasped in hope, not yet revealed. And around this field is a golden ring, symbolizing that such blessedness in Heaven lasts forever and has no end. Such blessedness is exquisite, beyond all joy and goods, just as gold is the most valuable, most precious and best metal. This is my compendium theologiae [summary of theology]. I have wanted to show it to you in good friendship, hoping for your appreciation. May Christ, our beloved Lord, be with your spirit until the life here after. Amen.

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WILLIAM T. SCHMIDT MEMORIAL AWARD The Association of Lutheran Friends re-established the William T. Schmidt Memorial Award in 1997. The award had previously been a project of the Northeastern Pennsylvania Branch of Lutheran Brotherhood. The purpose of the award is to recognize and honor a Lutheran Christian residing in Northeastern Pennsylvania for outstanding and dedicated service to their home congregation, an agency of the church, and/or the community at large.

The ward serves as a memorial to the late William T. Schmidt, a former mayor of the city of Scranton and an outstanding Lutheran layperson. After completing his term as Scranton’s mayor, Mr. Schmidt was appointed by then Pennsylvania Governor Raymond P. Shaffer to the post of Pennsylvania Secretary of Commerce; a post he held until his death. He was an active member of St. Peter Lutheran Church in Scranton, and, as a volunteer, served on the boards of various community-based organizations. Mr. Schmidt, working in cooperation with the local business community, founded the annual Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast in Scranton – a successful event that is still held in the Fall of each year. The William T. Schmidt Memorial Park is the site of the South Scranton Sports Complex.

To be eligible to receive the Schmidt award, a person must be a member of a Lutheran congregation, and must be nominated by a third party, such as a congregation, pastor, or person that is knowledgeable of the activities of the nominee. Nominees who are members of the Association of Lutheran Friends are given preference, but it is not a requirement. Nominations are submitted to the A.L.F. board, who, having reviewed them, make their selection by secret ballot. Presentation of the award is made at the annual Luther Day Dinner. In addition to the award, a $200 contribution is made to the charity of the award recipient’s choice in his or her honor.

The recipient of the 2009 William T. Schmidt award is Elmer Pensek, member of Immanuel Lutheran Church, Scranton.

“I thank Him who has given me strength for this, Christ Jesus our Lord, because he judged me faithful by appointing me to His service...”

- 1 Timothy 1:12

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LUTHER DAY DINNER

PROGRAM SPONSORS

Audrey E. Russell Norma C. Duddek Carole De Candis Phillip De Candis

Jill Grogan Art Grogan

Riley Madison Grogan Olivia Kowalski Alexa Rose Deal

Natalie Christine Deal Vernon W. Sallack Elsie Schweitzer Lorraine Pensak Roland Fornes

Pat Fornes Nettie Rayner

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2. Sinner Saints we join together. Wisdom in the Light of Christ. Melody of life and hope we Sing for now and evermore. Never fearing, always trusting, Ever watchful to the end. Chosen with a purpose earthly: Loving God and loving man.

OUR ENTERTAINMENT

The students of The Lutheran Academy, Scranton They will present a number of songs that they performed last year at their June Performance of “This Land is Your Land”. As well they will perform “A Mighty Fortress” on the Tone Chimes. Please join us in song as you are able!

The Lutheran Academy is in its third academic year and has 14 students from 1st to 8th grade. It provides a Classical Christian Education in a

small setting with a focus on the Performing and Visual Arts. The school is owned by Peace Lutheran and is run in partnership with Immanuel

Lutheran Church and its Preschool. It is located at Immanuel Lutheran Church. Roger Borchin is the Principal and Angela Scheller its teacher with teaching assistance from Rev. Mandile and Rev. Bjornstad. We

praise God for all His blessings upon us!

“CHOSEN WITH A PURPOSE”

Academy Theme Hymn Tune: Ode to Joy

1. From eternity Our Father Called our names and we became. Blessed angels sang His praises; Beauty, Joy, and Love displayed. We His Children, formed and nurtured Baptized into every Grace. Chosen with a purpose lovely: Serving God and serving man. 3. Marching onward t'ward our glory Cross of Christ before, behind. Students, Teachers learn the Story; Honor, Love and Mercy shared. Never failing to forgive, Lord, Gift us courage to believe: Chosen with a purpose holy: Living praises to our Lord!

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RANSOM LUTHERAN CHURCH VANDALISM

On Sunday, August 23rd about noon a call was received when a neighbor noticed very visible vandalism at the Ransom church. The police were called and an investigation was begun. It is understood that the perpetrators have been identified. Ransom Township is actively involved in helping A.L.F. rectify the situation at the church. We are thankful for their concern and help!

Below are two pictures of the new vandalism. Milk jugs filled with water (which were being kept at the church to water the flowers with) had been thrown through each of the eight windows . Hymnals were also strewn. Despite the damage, the fact is that it could have been much worse! We praise God it wasn’t!

Currently Pastor Searing (President) is leading the A.L.F. board to employ the necessary means to have the church windows repaired to their historical specifications. The A.L.F. board also has authorized the funds necessary to make sure the church is also painted before winter.

PLEASE HELP REPAIR RANSOM CHURCH:

EAT AT FRIENDLY’S!

Rev. Searing has accepted an offer by Friendly's Restaurant in Dunmore to be the beneficiaries of three Friendly’s Family Fun Nights. Meals purchased between the hours of 5 and 8 will give us at least a 10% of profits to the Ransom Church fund. Make your dinner dates these days:

Wednesday, October 21 ; Wednesday, November 11th.

The more people we get to Friendly’s those nights the more money we raise for the Ransom Church repairs!

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See your Vet regularly… There’s no bones about

that!

In Loving Memory of

Alan Ladd Russell

VCA DUNMORE ANIMAL HOSTPITAL Medical – Surgical – Dental – Behavioral

Laser Surgery Available – Emergency Service Boarding and Grooming Available

1317 East Drinker Street, Dunmore PA 18512 570-344-7651

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ASSOCIATION OF LUTHERAN FRIENDS MEMBERSHIP APPEAL!

You were invited to become a member (or renew your membership) of A.L.F. when you bought your Luther Day Dinner. If you did not take advantage of that opportunity, we would invite you to make out your $10 membership application below and hand it in to one of the A.L.F. board members. Otherwise you are welcome to send it in to the address indicated below at any time!

The Association has five meetings a year that members are encouraged to attend. We of course would appreciate any help that you might be able to give to running the association and accomplishing its aims.

Membership benefits are simple: A membership card, A.L.F. Newsletters sent to your mailbox, a vote at any of our meetings, and the good notion you are counted among Lutheran (Sinner/Saint) Friends who want to do great things together!

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Association of Lutheran Friends Membership Application/Renewal

NAME:

ADDRESS:

TELEPHONE NUMBER:

____ $10 CHECK ATTACHED

____ I am willing to help with Association Activities if I am able.

Please send to:

Association of Lutheran Friends Box 3113, Scranton PA 18505

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LUTHER DAY DINNER

PROGRAMME

Toastmaster: Rev. Kristian Bjornstad

Welcoming Remarks

Pledge of Allegiance

Hymn: “The Church’s One Foundation” (see next page)

Invocation Prayer: Rev. Al Wagaman (Past President, A.L.F.)

DINNER

Entertainment: The Lutheran Academy, Scranton

Update: Ransom Valley Lutheran Church

Presentation of the William T. Schmidt Memorial Award

Elmer Pencek Northeast Pennsylvania Lutheran Layperson of the Year

Introduced by Rev. Anthony Mandile III

Hymn: “A Mighty Fortress” (see next page)

Benediction: Rev. Anthony Mandile III

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"The Church's One Foundation" by Samuel J. Stone, 1839-1900

Text From: THE HANDBOOK TO THE LUTHERAN HYMNAL

(St. Louis: Concordia Publishing House, 1942) pp. 473-474

1. The Church's one foundation Is Jesus Christ, her Lord;

She is His new creation By water and the Word.

From heaven He came and sought her

To be His holy bride; With His won blood He bought

her, And for her life He died.

2. Elect from every nation, Yet one o'er all the earth, Her charter of salvation

One Lord, one faith, one birth. One holy name she blesses,

Partakes one holy food, And to one hope she presses,

With every grace endued.

3. The Church shall never perish!

Her dear Lord, to defend, To guide, sustain, and cherish,

Is with her to the end. Though there be those that hate

her. False sons within her pale,

Against both foe and traitor She ever shall prevail.

4. Though with a scornful wonder

Men see her sore oppressed, By schisms rent asunder,

By heresies distressed, Yet saints their watch are

keeping; Their cry goes up, "How long?" And soon the night of weeping

Shall be the morn of song.

5. Mid toil and tribulation And tumult of her war

She waits the consummation Of peace forevermore,

Til with the vision glorious Her longing eyes are blest

And the great Church victorious Shall be the Church at rest.

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NOTICE OF

ANNUAL CORPORATE MEETING Please be advised that the ANNUAL CORPORATE MEETING of the Association of Lutheran Friends, Inc., will be held on THURSDAY, December 3rd, 2009 at 7 pm at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church , Taylor and Ash Streets, Scranton. The business meeting at 7 pm will be preceded by a DINNER (prepared by host Pastor Searing!) at 6 pm. Dinner reservations at $7.00 per person may be made with Audrey Russell, A.L.F. Secretary, on or before Sunday November 29, at (570) 344-6221.

A.L.F. HIGHER EDUCATION SCHOLARSHIP At the Annual Meeting of 2003, it was agreed to promote a $500 scholarship to any NEPA Lutheran person attending a Lutheran Affiliated College or Seminary. Since an important goal of the Association of Lutheran Friends is education, we want to take a specific role in encouraging our young Lutheran Christian in the pursuit of their educational goals, as well as strengthen the great heritage of Lutheran Higher Education.

We have only had the opportunity to present this Scholarship once, and so we urge our members and their congregations to consider eligible candidates!

Applicants should submit the following information to A.L.F. (Box 3113, Scranton PA 18505): Name, address, phone; letter of church membership; short description of educational goals; copy of list of registered classes on official school letterhead; record of cumulative GP|A. We look forward to awarding many of these scholarships!

“The Fear of the Lord is the beginning of Wisdom” Prov. 9:10

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“I AM WITH YOU ALWAYS” When one who loves you dies,

He does not cease to be,

Nor go away, nor cease to care.

He loves you still;

He grieves to see you grieving

His cherished tangibility is lost to him and you –

The warm, familiar flesh in which he lived

And moved

And had his being,

Until death intervened and made him Spirit.

You cannot see or hear him anymore, but he is with you.

Listen for him now with other aspects of your consciousness;

And when you have the feeling that he’s near

Or seem to hear him put a thought in words,

Respond to him,

And tell him you’re closer in some ways

Than ever you were across the living room.

Dedication by Audrey Russell

In loving memory of my dear sister Elsie Pesut and Ruth I. Rogal.

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NEW A.L.F. WEB SITE In January the Association of Lutheran Friends launched into the 21st Century with a new website: www.associationoflutheranfriends.org On this web site you will be able to find all our newsletters and other information updates on A.L.F. happenings and event changes. You will also find a growing list of church histories as they have been presented at our various educational events (see below!) PLEASE CHECK OUT THE WEBSITE and if you have any suggestions, please let Rev. Bjornstad know! NEPA Lutheran History Project One of the stated goals of the Association of Lutheran Friends is to enhance and promote the Lutheran community. We have recently endeavored to help accomplish this by helping to gather and tell the history of Lutheranism here in NEPA. We are asking for any contributions to the history of Lutherans and their congregations. We will post them here at this web site and perhaps in the future we would like to produce some sort of publication setting forth the story of Lutheranism and how God blessed it through the years. This page will be developed with histories of each congregation and a timeline of Lutheranism here in NEPA. If you have anything to contribute to this project, whether it be accounts, interviews, pictures, etc., please contact Rev. Kristian Bjornstad.

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St. Matthew’s United Evangelical Lutheran Church Pastor Lester E. Stephenson, Jr.

Worship 10 am Sunday School 11 am 425 Jefferson Avenue

Scranton, PA 18510 570-342-1000 lutherangels@epix.net

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A VERY WARM WELCOME to the

VIEWMONT DINER Family Restaurant

With Homemade Cooking and a To Go Menu

448 Scranton-Carbondale Hwy., Dickson City, PA 570-558-1771

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TO THE GLORY OF GOD And

In Memory of Loved Ones - Ramona Brown

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TO THE GLORY OF GOD And

In Memory of Loved Ones - Esther & Bob Rayner

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God’s Richest Blessings

From

St. Luke Lutheran Church

434 Main St. Archbald, Pennsylvania

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Greetings to all those attending the 2009 Luther Day Dinner

from

Thrivent Financial for Lutherans Lackawanna Chapter #31049

Thrivent Financial for Lutherans is a financial services membership organization helping nearly 3 million members thrive in life. Thrivent Financial and its subsidiaries offer a broad range

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