st. mark’s messenger · page 4 st. mark’s messenger children & family 2 by 2 bible study...

St. Mark’s Messenger

MAR C H 2014

“Saved by Grace, we are called to Celebrate, Serve and Make Disciples”

Work Day April 5: It would be wonderful if every member of St.

Mark’s would show up for our semi-annual work day.

We have a lovely building and it needs lots of attention. We can

PAY to update things or we could enjoy a morning of fellowship and

satisfying labor. Which do you think pleases God more?

Join your fellow members and friends in work that surely pleases the

Lord on Saturday, April 5 from 9-12. The work day will begin in the

Fellowship Hall and teams can go forth from there with various

projects. A list of things to be done will be provided and a

coordinator will help with each group.

Mark your calendar… April 5: a day of fellowship, laboring to improve God’s house, and a day

of preparation. Be sure and join your fellow members and friends as we CONNECT WITH

GOD AND ONE ANOTHER.

Ash Wednesday Services - March 5th

6:06AM in the Chapel

Noon in the Sanctuary

7PM in the Sanctuary

Mid Week Service Schedule

(March 12th, 19th, and 26th)

5 - 6:15PM - Meal in the Fellowship Hall

6:30PM - Lenten Evening Service

Nursery will be available during the

Worship Service

ST. MAR K’ S MESSEN GER

Things are changing! (Thank God!). Winter is giving way to

spring. Epiphany is giving way to Lent.

We tend to like (get stuck) in our routines and often do not like

change. But change is a law of life. All living things change by either

growing or dying. The church is a living creature—the body of Christ. We are called to change and

change is good.

Through change, we are refreshed and made new. As the bare branches of the trees give way to the

buds and the dormant spring flowers burst through the frozen earth, so we change and are made

new.

The ELCA theme is “Always Being Made New…” Isn’t that the truth? And isn’t that great?

Favorite Hymns/Songs?: March has a 5th. Sunday. So for Sunday, March 30, we would like to

sing your favorite hymns (at 11 a.m. service) or praise songs/hymns (at the 8:30 service). What are

your favorites?

On Sunday, March 23rd, you’ll have an opportunity to list your favorites to be sung on the fifth

Sunday of the month.

Southeastern Synod Newsletter: Take a moment to get the synod newsletter. It is very well done

and well worth your time to see where the larger church is serving Christ beyond our walls. You

can subscribe by going here: http://archive.constantcontact.com/fs112/1102135370992/

archive/1116468870562.html.

Christian stewardship is based on the following:

Everything belongs to God and giving is a recognition of that fact (if you don’t believe that, ask

yourself how much will be yours in a mere 100 years?)

Giving is a sign of spiritual health

Giving is a joy and sign of personal well being.

Giving “off the top” and as a percentage (a tithe is 10%) shows priorities in ones’ life.

The best way to increase faith is to step out in faith!

Stewardship is NOT:

Giving to the church to meet the budget.

Giving because I “have to.”

Giving because “I would feel guilty if I didn’t.”

Stewardship Box

http://archive.constantcontact.com/fs112/1102135370992/archive/1116468870562.html

http://archive.constantcontact.com/fs112/1102135370992/archive/1116468870562.html

Global missionaries meet vital needs More than 240 ELCA missionaries serve in more than 40 countries around the world. Some are doctors in rural areas. Others teach children where there are few opportunities to go to school or work in seminaries that prepare pastors and future church leaders. See www.ELCA.org/missionarysponsorship.

Introducing Always Being Made New: The Campaign for the ELCA The Campaign for the ELCA offers an opportunity for all of us in this church to deepen and expand the mission and ministries to which we are committed, including those of ELCA Global Church Sponsorship: Missionaries and Young Adults in Global Mission, International Leaders and Global Ministries. Please watch this video and prayerfully consider how you can help do God’s work in the world through the Campaign for the ELCA: www.youtube.com/watch?v=rNkBhGgYZn0&feature=youtu.be.

Act 2Day 4Tomorrow: An overnight youth lock-in from ELCA World Hunger! This program helps youth learn how to help eradicate hunger and poverty in the world. During the spiritual practice of fasting, they will engage in activities and times of reflection centered on seven faith practices. Materials for the program have everything you need, including an activities booklet, schedules, a promotional poster and more! See http://resources.elca.org/Hunger_Resources-Act_2Day_4Tomorrow_Packet.html.

In our prayers Remember in your prayers ELCA missionaries in Argentina Erin and Josh Branchaud, whose work includes youth, music and congregational ministries. (This prayer suggestion for March 26 is available later in March along with daily prayers for the global, social and out-reach ministries of the ELCA at www.ELCA.org/prayerventures.)

https://community.elca.org/page.redir?target=http://www.ELCA.org/missionarysponsorship&srcid=44725&srctid=1&erid=7858239&trid=bd4f13d9-7ccc-4ab1-b271-f6bf845905e9

https://community.elca.org/page.redir?target=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v%3drNkBhGgYZn0%26feature%3dyoutu.be&srcid=44725&srctid=1&erid=7858239&trid=bd4f13d9-7ccc-4ab1-b271-f6bf845905e9

https://community.elca.org/page.redir?target=http://resources.elca.org/Hunger_Resources-Act_2Day_4Tomorrow_Packet.html&srcid=44725&srctid=1&erid=7858239&trid=bd4f13d9-7ccc-4ab1-b271-f6bf845905e9

https://community.elca.org/page.redir?target=http://www.elca.org/prayerventures&srcid=44725&srctid=1&erid=7858239&trid=bd4f13d9-7ccc-4ab1-b271-f6bf845905e9


Children & Family

2 by 2 Bible Study Designed for stay

at home parents,

those taking an early

lunch, or with an off day. We are

reading the Chronological Bible

this year, and The 7 Experiment by

Jen Hatmaker.

Easter Plans First Communion

& Seder Meal, April 17, 5:30 PM

Easter Egg Hunt April 19, 11 AM

Flowering the Cross April 20, 9:45 AM

Family Craft Day April 26

Crafts for all: 2 sessions. 9 - 11 AM: easier for littler

hands 1 - 4 PM: a little more

complicated Person/session: $5 fee

Summer Plans Lutheroad

June 9-13 Vacation Bible School

July 14-18 @Lutheridge

July 27—August 2

It’s retreat time!

The Spring Retreat is

March 14-16. We

will discuss the

Sacraments among our other

activities. All confirmands are

encouraged to bring friends.

The info and forms needed are

located in the confirmation

binder. We will meet at the

church at 4 PM on the 14th. And

return by 10:30 AM on the 16th.

Fund Raiser March 8, 5 PM

Support our youth and enjoy dinner and a show. Ticket cost $5 each.

All proceeds go to support our youth attending the 2015 National Youth Gathering in Detroit.

Performances of…. Irish Dancing Synchronized Flag “Who’s on first?” “the Cup Song” Skits Musical offerings,

and so much more!

The Menu... Spaghetti and sauce Garlic Bread Salad Dessert

Parents of Young Children Targeted towards parents who have

babies, toddlers, and preschoolers -

this group meets monthly for

outings and social occasions.

This month, on March 8, at 10 AM,

PYC will go to Burritt on the Mountain.

Tweeners & Jr. High For our outing this month, we are

staying in! On March 9, we will

pack Blessings in a Backpack and

then enjoy a movie and some pizza.

Plan to come to

be at the church

at 2 PM. Everyone

is invited to bring ‘Blessings’ items:

listed on pg. 8.

Upcoming Events:

For a look at Daddy Daughter Dance pictures, visit www.stmarkshsv.org

FEB R UAR Y 2014 PAGE 5

Adult Education

Adult Mid-Week Opportunities

Monday: 11 AM: Bible Study Class (Isaiah)

6:30 PM: Small Group Bible Study

Wednesday: 6:06 AM: Devotions, Prayer & Fellowship

Thursday: 11 AM: Good News Small Group

Friday: 9 AM: 2 by 2 Bible Study (childcare provided)

1. Faith and Discovery: "Faith and Discovery"

Adult Sunday School Class continues to study the Reformation in Christianity: The First Three Thousand Years by Diarmaid MacCulloch.

Don't be apprehensive joining us mid-book!! MacCulloch is a great author -- each section stands alone. So far, we've found this text to be an excellent source for understanding the "whys" of our theology and church traditions.

We're always happy to see new faces! Led by Mike Hamilton.

2. DONUTS: The Reformation.

Centuries after his death, Martin Luther is celebrated as an intellectual giant, a brave opponent of corruption, a shaper of culture, indeed, as one of the most significant figures in Western history. Many people, however, are unaware of the events of Luther’s life that led him to make a courageous stand for the gospel in the sixteenth century. In this series, R.C. Sproul provides a thorough introduction to the life and thought of Martin Luther. With an eye to the lessons we can learn today, Dr. Sproul traces the major events of Luther’s life and explores the gospel recovered by Luther and the other Protestant Reformers. Led by Marlin & Denise Williamson.

3. Lectionary Bible Study: What is a lectionary?

A lectionary is a list of scripture readings assigned to be read on a particular day. A three-year cycle beginning in Advent, each year the Gospel of Matthew, Mark or Luke is read primarily with the Gospel of John interspersed throughout. This class will study and discuss the week’s readings used in our Sunday worship. Led by Dave Schultz.

4. Bible Studies for Life: Honest God: Real

Questions People Ask by Robert Jeffress. There are some hard questions out there– questions that may seem to cast doubt on the foundational truths of Christianity– but Christians can approach these questions honestly and rationally. Honest to God addresses foundational issues in the life of every person: the origin and significance of human life, the existence and nature of God, and how God reveals Himself and relates to people. Led by Gwen Dornbos.

5. Book Of Revelation: We will look at the

original meaning of Revelation and the various interpretations of the book over the years and how some interpret it today. Finally, we will look at how this incredible book can aid our faith life. Led by Pastor Dennis Fakes.

Alassippi Youth Gathering 2014!

Go in Peace March 1 and 2 at Shades Valley Lutheran Church, Birmingham, AL. Cost is

$25.

Wednesday, March 5th is Ash Wednesday, we will be meeting at 6pm for our

dinner and devotion followed by the Imposition of Ashes service at 7pm.

Variety Show Final Dress Rehearsal will be Wednesday, March 5th at

5:30 in the Sanctuary. If you are participating in any act you need to be

there.

Look High, Look Low, Look Everywhere you go!! We will be going on a scav-

enger hunt Sunday, March 9th at 1:15pm to 3:30pm. We will meet at the

church and travel around the city searching for clues that will lead us to our

prize. Bring your thinking brains!!!

Wednesday with the Word for March 12th, & 19th will be

held at the church. We will be meeting downstairs in the

fellowship hall at 5:15pm for dinner and devotion

followed by the church service at 6:30 to finish up at

7:30. PLEASE NOTE THE CHANGE IN TIME!!! See you all

there!!

Confirmation Retreat will be Friday, March 14th - Sunday, March

16th , cost for teaching team is $25. We will meet at the church Fri-

day at 4pm and return Sunday mid morning.

Variety Show Fund Raiser, March 8, 5 PM

Support our youth and come to dinner and a show. Tickets

are $5 each (Purchase tickets from any Jr. or Sr. Youth mem-

ber) All proceeds go towards the 2015 National Youth Gather-

ing in Detroit.

Menu: Spaghetti & sauce; salad; bread; and dessert

Performances include: Irish Dancing, "The Cup Song", skits, "Who's On

First?", Color Guard Routine; Train's "50 Ways to Say Good-bye", and much,

much MORE!

MAR C H 2014 PAGE 7

Lights, Camera, Action!!! We will be traveling to the movies on Sunday, March

23rd for an afternoon feature. Film voting will take place the week before

through email and the daily bible verse text. We will meet at Carmike Motion

Pictures located at 1485 4 Mile Post Rd SE, Huntsville, AL 35802

There will be NO Wednesday with the Word on Wednesday, March

26th and no youth on Sunday, March 30th due to the Spring Break

holiday. Hope to hear about everyone’s wonderful adventures!!

We are looking for people to help volunteer for youth events. If you are interested please contact Missy. The youth of our church are wonderful people and love meeting together and meeting new people. So we would love for you to come and help us out!!

Just a quick Thank You to the congregation for support Souper Bowl

Sunday we collected over 180 canned soups for our Food Pantry as

well as The Manna House.

Affirm 2014 Registration is now OPEN!! This year Affirm is June 15-20, 2014 at Berry College in Rome, Georgia. Grounded in Word and Sacrament, Affirm develops discipleship skills, leadership skills, and teaches Lutheran theology. We follow Christ, we live in a Christian community, and we teach participants how to be God's hands in this world.

Affirm Units fill up fast. To avoid the disappoint of not getting your first choice of the Unit you want to participate in, once you register online at www.sesyouth.org , immediately download the Medical Treatment Form and Community Guidelines below. Complete the forms and mail them with your deposit to the Affirm registrar, Gail Pittman. You'll find her mailing address on the forms. The cost of Affirm is $375. This includes lodging, all meals from Sunday supper through Friday breakfast, an event T-shirt, and programming costs associated with each unit. You can send a check or use a credit card through Paypal. ALL REGISTRATION PAPERWORK MUST be postmarked before MAY 1, 2014. St. Mark’s will pay $50 of your registration costs for Affirm or Lutheridge. Please let Traci or Missy know once you have registered. There is also scholarship money available with a deadline of April 1st, 2014, please let Missy know if you need assistance. See you all this summer.


God’s Work, Our Hands

Blessings in a Backpack

An ongoing commitment, we will

pack 50 bags of food to deliver each

Friday morning at Martin Luther

King, Jr. Elementary School.

Volunteers are needed on the first

Wednesdays of the month at 10 AM

to pack bags.

Items are needed to fill the bags:

100% juice boxes, Pop-tarts, Nutri-

Grain bars, Chef-Boyardee meals,

tuna pouches, raisins, fruit cups,

pretzels, Cheez-its, Nesquick drinks,

pudding cups.

Baby Items

To provide baby items for the food

pantry to add to family food orders

Items needed: diapers (any size),

baby food, wipes, powdered formula

Homeless Camps

A new program, we will visit home-

less camps once a month. A team of

volunteers will deliver food, water

and supplies every 2nd Sunday of the

month: (next 3/9)

Items are needed to deliver each

month: canned meals, soup,

granola bars, fruit cups, raisins,

water bottles, dog food, and toiletry

items.

Needed this month: Toiletry Items

(toothpaste/brushes, shampoo,

soap, deodorant, etc.)

In an effort to keep up momentum and an outward focus, the following ministries are highlighted this month. These are opportunities for you to share your time, money, and of course, your prayers.

St. Mark’s receives

$5,000 “Matthew 25: Neighbors in

Need” Grant

Thrivent Financial for Lutherans Foundation grant

aids efforts to support physical, emotional and

spiritual needs in community

St. Mark’s recently received a $5,000 “Lutheran

Community Matthew 25: Neighbors in Need”

grant from the Thrivent Financial for Lutherans

Foundation. The funding was awarded to St.

Mark’s based on its effectiveness in addressing

physical, emotional and /or spiritual needs in the

local community based on Jesus’ words in Mt. 25.

St. Mark’s has also elected to participate in a

complementary two-to-one challenge grant

program sponsored by the Foundation. For every

dollar raised by St. Mark’s from donors by March

31, 2014, the Thrivent Financial for Lutherans

Foundation will provide an additional 50 cents - up

to $5,000 - in support of our ministry.

With the money raised by St. Mark’s and

Thrivent’s generosity, St. Mark’s has the potential

of $20,000 to be used for the hungry and needed

in our community, expanding the existing Food

Pantry and food ministry programs.

MAR C H 2014

Ruth Circle will meet Wed., March 5th at 9am in the fellowship hall for a snack, fellowship and

bible study from the Lutheran magazine "Gather". Members - REGRETS ONLY to Dot

Boerner at 256-883-2831 by 3/3. Guests are welcome, please call Dot if you can attend.

Deborah Circle will meet Tuesday March 11, at 10:00 AM in Room 8 at the church. Anne

Martin will present the Bible Study from the Gather Magazine. Almut Herkert and Katy

Schroer are hostesses. Please bring items or money to support the Blessings in a Backpack which

is our 2014 ministry project. Come join us for study and fellowship. All are welcome.

Martha Circle will meet on Thursday, March 13th at 7PM at the home of Gloria Woody.

Rachel Circle will meet on Monday, March 10 at 7:00 pm at the church. Our Bible study will

be chapter 3 of Bad Girls of the Bible by Liz Curtis Higgs. We will also be collecting items for

the Community Free Clinic. We welcome visitors and new members!

For addresses or directions to any of the circle meetings,

please call the church office at 256-539-4361

PAGE 9

Circle Meetings

St. Mark’s Faith and

Fiction Book Group Join us on Saturday, March 1st at 9:30AM in Room 8 as we discuss The Light Between Oceans by M. L. Stedman. Everyone is welcome, we would love to see new faces!

April’s book selection will be State of Wonder by Ann Patchett.


If you would like to bake bread for the contemporary service, please call Charles Musitano at 256-883-8988.

We are looking for people to help volun-teer for youth events. If you are interested please contact Missy. The youth of our church are wonderful people and love meeting together and meeting new people. So we would love for you to come and help us out!!

Fund Raiser March 8, 5 PM

Support our youth and enjoy dinner and a show. Ticket cost $5 each.

All proceeds go to support our youth attending the 2015 National Youth Gathering in Detroit.

Performances of…. Irish Dancing Synchronized Flag “Who’s on first?” “the Cup Song” Skits Musical offerings,

and so much more!

The Menu... Spaghetti and sauce Garlic Bread Salad Dessert

Reserve your Easter Tulips today!

You can find flower envelopes in the Narthex, Communication Central and the Church Office. The cost is $15.00 per flower pot. We have ordered a limited quantity and may not be able to order more as we get closer to Easter. Reserve your plant early to ensure your order is filled.

MAR C H 2014 PAGE 11

March 2014 Music Ministries Worship Schedule

Sunday, March 2nd Worship Service:

8:30 a.m.: Praise Team Joyful Noise with leader Lynn Redington

11:00 a.m.: Special music by organist and pianist Dr. Mira Kruja,

and by vocal-soloist and guitarist Derek Spadaro

Wednesday, March 5th:

12:00 p.m.: Ash Wednesday Service, special Music by pianist Ferdinand Murati

1:00 p.m.: Open to the Community Program Ukulele Community Choir with director Ferdinand Murati

7:00 p.m.: Ash Wednesday Service, special music by organist and pianist Dr. Mira Kruja,

and by vocal-soloist Norwood Cutter

Sunday, March 9th Worship Service:

8:30 a.m.: Cornerstone Praise Team, with leader Glenn Carter

11:00 a.m.: Special music by organist and pianist Dr. Mira Kruja,

and by St. Mark’s Ringers Handbell Choir



6:30 p.m.: Lent Mid-Week Service, “Holden Evening Prayer” with pianist Dr. Mira Kruja,

and vocal-soloist Louise Brooks


8:30 a.m.: Sanctuary Praise Team, with leader Ferdinand Murati

11:00 a.m.: Special music by organist and pianist Dr. Mira Kruja, and by St. Mark’s Choir




and vocal-soloist Norm Skrenes

Friday, March 21st Concert with Ukulele Community Choir

5:30 p.m.: Calvary Bible Church in Huntsville

Sunday, March 23rd Worship Service:

8:30 a.m.: Cornerstone Praise Team, with leader Glenn Carter

11:00 a.m.: Special music by organist and pianist Dr. Mira Kruja, and by St. Mark’s Choir




and vocal-soloist Jennifer Jones


8:30 a.m.: Mark IV Barbershop Voices, with leader Lynn Redington

11:00 a.m.: Special music by organist and pianist Dr. Mira Kruja, and by Mark IV Barbershop Voices

Anyone with singing and/or musical instrument playing skills is invited to join any of the St. Mark’s Mu-

sic Ministries. For more information contact Music Director, Ferdinand Murati.

Mission Spotlight - Paper Drive for 305 8th Street During March, a donation drive will be held for the 18 residents at 305 8th Street who are adults with diverse metal disabilities. You can learn more about 305 8th Street through the brochures l ocated on the wall just before you go into the Narthex from Communication Central.

Below is a prioritized list of needed items: Paper Towels Toilet Paper White Copy Paper Napkins Notebook Paper Please call Debra Hammond at 256-975-1384 for more information.

PAGE 12 ST. MAR K’ S MESSEN GER

Free Spirits

Free Spirits will meet Thursday, March 20th at 11:00 A.M. in the Fellowship Hall. Our program will be Irish Dances presented by St. Mark's teenager, Tyler Caple. A delicious lunch will be served and Door Prizes awarded!

Be sure to sign up in Communication Central so we can plan for YOUR attendance!

We have a new addition in the Chapel. Anne Trunk Abenanti donated a Werlitzer organ that had been her late husband, Sam Abenanti’s for many years. Sam passed away in July of 2011 at the age of 92, playing the organ till nearly that time. Sam and Anne lived in a condo in Arlington Heights, Illinois where many neighbors would open their doors to hear the “old time” music.

Anne wanted others to enjoy the music that the organ still has in it, so she is giving St. Mark’s a chance to open the doors to some wonderful sounds. The organ is given in loving memory of Sam Abenanti, a good Christian husband and veteran of World War II, by his wife Anne Trunk, now of Hazel Green, AL.

To St. Mark’s,

I was so overwhelmed to have you surround me with your love on my 80th birthday. The cards with your personal good wishes

are being read by me.

God bless each and every one of you,

Doris Dana

What: Peter and the Wolf

Who: The Huntsville Symphony Orchestra with the help of characters from

Fantasy Playhouse

When: -

Saturday, March 1, 2014, at 11:00 a.m.

FREE Family Concert – Davidson Center for Space Exploration Free Family Activities 9:30

Saturday, March 1, 2014, at 5:00 p.m.

FREE Family Concert – Asbury Methodist Church in Madison Free Family Activities 3:30

Sunday, March 2, 2014, at 2:00 p.m.

FREE Family Concert – First United Methodist Church in Athens NO FAMILY ACTIVITIES

FREE concerts made possible by The Painted Violin Society and Damson

Automotive Group.

For more information about the concerts: Huntsville Symphony Orchestra, Jennifer Doss | Marketing and Development Director [email protected],

Phone: 256-539-4818 Fax: 256-539-4819

For more information about the Painted Violin Society-a consortium of people throughout North Alabama who support FREE symphonic music for families, contact Huntsville Symphony Orchestra Guild's Heather Lyons- [email protected].


Dear Church Family,

Just a note to thank you for your lovely cards and encouragement. As you know I have have had

six major surgeries since 2004 so knowing that I am in your prayers is very meaningful to me.

Much Love,

Irene Bartlett

163 159th Ave., Hollands, MI 49424

Phone: 616-212-7013

[email protected]

mailto:[email protected]

tel:256-539-4818

tel:256-539-4819



This summer the Lutheran Men’s Gathering is just up the

road in Nashville.

How about it men? Could we get a group together to go?

The vision of Lutheran Men in Mission is “for every man

to become a bold, daring follower of Jesus Christ.”

Set aside July 18-20 this summer for this gathering. Very modest price and potential for tremendous

payback!

Interested? Contact Pastor Dennis (256-551-5368 or [email protected])

March 8, 2014 7 PM UAH University Center Exhibit Hall Sponsored by Thrivent Financial for Lutherans Tickets are free and can be picked up at the Thrivent Office at 7500 Memorial Parkway SW, Huntsville, AL 35802, 256.883.5509 Free will offering for The Food Bank of North Alabama.

Musician

Dancer

Beatboxer

Storyteller

Lyricist

Poet

www.hiphopoutreach.com

“I have never seen someone inspire a group of young

people the way that AGAPE does.” ~Former Minneapolis

Bishop Craig Johnson

Featured in the recent ABC documentary “Peace of

Bread”

Winner of the 2009 “Tommie” award for Youth Ministry

Friends, Inc. offers caring volunteer services in Huntsville and Madison County to support patients and their

families and to help them cope with these new situations and issues. Volunteer support services are

provided by one person to another in the home, hospital, or nursing home.

Friends, Inc. volunteers receive ongoing training and support. Volunteers are offered volunteer

opportunities that meet their interests and availability. There is no minimum time commitment for

volunteers with Friends, Inc.

If you are in need of transportation assistance to and from doctor’s appointments, or if you would

like to volunteer to help in this capacity, please call Sherry Bryant at 256-534-4079.



April 12th is the date for a new Senior Outing.

Rachel Circle is planning and inviting members to a Spring Outing to the Amish Community in Ethridge, TN. We’ll have a horse drawn wag-on tour, lunch at the Amish Restaurant, and opportunities to shop in the Amish gift shop.

Watch for more details to follow and a sign up sheet in Communication Central around mid– March.

Huntsville Assistance Program Report

The Huntsville Assistance Program (HAP) began serving the greater Huntsville community in September of 2002. HAP is composed of a group of Christian congregations who desire to provide a ministry of assistance and referrals to needy individuals and families of Madison County, Alabama. There are over 70 congregational members of HAP. The HAP ministry focuses on the non-homeless and strives to achieve its mission by the pooling of volunteers, information and financial resources of its members. HAP cooperates with local food pantries, pharmacies, ministries and other support agencies to provide assistance to those in need as effectively as possible.

St. Mark’s joined HAP in February of 2003 as its 12th or 13th member. I am providing this report to the congregation as the St. Mark’s representative on the HAP Board of Directors. Our congregation supported HAP with contributions of $6000 in 2013. The table below presents a summary of the financial assistance

provided by HAP to over 6000 clients in 2013. *Assistance to a family is counted as one client. **Much of the food assistance pro-vided was donated to HAP. The funds shown are the direct dollars spent by HAP in purchasing food.

Food assistance is provided to applicants no more than twice a calendar year. Utility assistance, typically $150 to $200, is provided once a year and is paid directly to Huntsville Utilities. Rent or mortgage assistance, typically not exceeding $200, is given no more than once a year and paid directly to the landlord or mortgage holder. Medicine assistance is coordinated with local pharmacies and limited gasoline assistance is provided by prepaid card. Every reasonable effort is made to ensure that applicants to whom assistance is provided have presented bona fide and creditable needs. Since HAP does not accept any government funds, the HAP interviewers are also able to provide moral and common-sense counseling to their clients regarding lifestyle and behavior patterns. Clients are encouraged to connect with churches in their neighborhoods.

An important service provided by HAP is a large data bank (clearing house) that tracks all assistance given to prevent duplicity and fraud. The clearing house service is available to all member congregations.

This is necessarily a very brief summary of HAP activities. I’ll be glad to talk with you about HAP and answer questions. Please catch me before or after the late service or give me a call at 256 883-0567.

Dave Schultz

HAP Direct Assistance Financial Summary

Category of

Assistance

Clients* Assisted During Fiscal Year

2013

Funds Expended During Fiscal Year

2013

Utilities 853 $139,223.68

Rent/Mortgage 295 36,648.92

Food** 4865 3,051.92

Medicines, and

Gasoline 19 994.61

TOTAL 6032 $179,919.13

March 5th 12:00 Noon Ushers: Jim Mullin & Jed Deason

7PM Asst. Minister - John Mahony

Lay Assist. - Gisela Rieger

Lector - Traci Billman

Acolyte - Meredith Mullin

Server - Shelby Billman

Usher: Don Sieja

Mid Week Services Begin at 6:30PM 3/12/2014

Ushers: Norm & Peg Skrenes

3/19/2014

Ushers: Don Sieja, Stan Reinartz

3/26/2014

Ushers: Wayne Falkenberg, Glenn Dasher

4/2/2014

Ushers: Norm & Peg Skrenes

4/9/2014

Ushers: Butch & Anna Lloyd

April 17th 7PM

Ushers: Norwood Cutter, Glenn Dasher


April 18th 12:00PM Noon Ushers: Jed Deason, Jim Mullin

7PM Ushers: Don Sieja, Gloria Woody

March 2, 2014 8:30 11:00

Asst. Minister Traci Billman Pam Birkholz

Lector Judy Jung Andy Veren

Acolyte Lynnsey Bodin Felina Sarmiento

Server Katelynn Bodin, Ryan Cunningham

Greeter Karen Cunningham Hilda Fakes, Jim French

Greeter Glenn Cunningham Phil Grimm

Usher Brandon Hiller Anna Lloyd

Usher Norwood Cutter Butch Lloyd

March 9, 2014 8:30 11:00

Asst. Minister Barry Rogers Jed Deason

Lay Asst. Polly Falkenberg

Lector Judy Styles Tom Duncan

Acolyte Gabriel Pittman Lana Leo

Server Haley Bodin, Alyssa Hicks Sam Mullin

Greeter Gwen Dornbos Hilda Fakes, Jim French

Greeter Bob Dornbos Phil Grimm

Usher Mary Wiley Wayne Falkenberg

Usher Harry Wiley Don Sieja

March16, 2014 8:30 11:00

Asst. Minister Louise Brooks Kathy Sieja

Lector Robert Burkhardt Stan Reinartz

Acolyte Abby Williamson Peyton Paulus

Server Lucas Price, Blake Carlyon

Greeter Barbara Kocher Hilda Fakes, Jim French

Greeter Denny Kocher Phil Grimm

Usher Mike Price Tim Sieja

Usher Michelle Price Andy Sieja

March 23, 2014 8:30 11:00

Asst. Minister Brenda Holsopple Anne Knowles

Lay Asst. David Schultz

Lector Karen Petersen Nancy Lorine

Acolyte Grace Billman Nick Bonaker

Server Evan Jaramillo, Katie Jaramillo Nick Bonaker

Greeter Mary Grace Evans Hilda Fakes, Jim French

Greeter Karen Fletcher Phil Grimm

Usher Marlin Williamson Norm Skrenes

Usher Bill Weiler Peg Skrenes

March 30, 2014 8:30 11:00

Asst. Minister Mary Keck Linda Veren

Lector Gwen Dornbos Mike Hamilton

Acolyte Katie Folgmann

Greeter Glenn Cunningham Hilda Fakes, Jim French

Greeter Karen Cunningham Phil Grimm

Usher Diane Richardson Jim Mullin

Usher Norwood Cutter Gloria Woody

Worship Assistants

April 6, 2014 8:30 11:00

Asst. Minister Judy Styles Frank Craig

Lector Lynn Redinton Pat Barber

Acolyte Aija Abele Felina Sarmiento

Server Shelby Billman, Katie Jaramillo

Greeter Gun Abele Astrid Lahiere, Courtney Spadaro

Greeter Chris Myers Peg & Norm Skrenes

Usher Brandon Hiller Glenn Dasher

Usher Norwood Cutter Stan Reinartz

April 13, 2014 8:30 11:00

Asst. Minister Gwen Dornbos John Mahony

Lay Asst. Polly Falkenberg

Lector Denny Kocher Hilda Fakes

Acolyte Robbie Caple Lana Leo

Server Gracie Niemeyer, Aidan Pittman David Schultz

Greeter Karen Szymczyk Astrid Lahiere, Courtney Spadaro

Greeter Karen Fletcher Peg & Norm Skrenes

Usher Michelle Price Wayne Falkenberg

Usher Mike Price Don Sieja

April 20, 2014 8:30 11:00

Asst. Minister Roberts Abele Kathy Sieja

Lector Louise Brooks Ellen Brusick

Acolyte Grace Billman Peyton Paulus

Server Lucas Price, Hannah Williamson

Crucifer Sam Mullin

Torch Bearers Meredith Mullin, River Skrenes

Bible Bearer Sam Sykstus

Greeter Gwen Dornbos Astrid Lahiere, Courtney Spadaro

Greeter Bob Dornbos Norm & Peg Skrenes

Usher Harry Wiley Anna Lloyd

Usher Mary Wiley Butch Lloyd

April 27, 2014 8:30 11:00

Asst. Minister Traci Billman Linda Veren

Lector Judy Jung Julie Satterfeal

Acolyte Lynnsey Bodin River Skrenes

Server Ryan Cunningham, Haley Bodin River Skrenes

Greeter Karen Cunningham Astrid Lahiere, Courtney Spadaro

Greeter Glenn Cunningham Peg & Norm Skrenes

Usher Barry Rogers Jim Mullin

Usher Bill Weiler Tim Sieja

Worship Assistants


Susan Bowen, Melissa Price Brown

Karen Cunningham, Stephanie Volz Smith

William Harman, Joe Jefferson, Elfriede Loveless, William Muth

Alyssa Hicks, Judy Redington, Helen Stark, Jeff Wright

Haley Bodin, Connie Jaramillo, Jules Sharpe, Jack Sykstus

Kendall Armstrong, Karen Fletcher, Jean James, Karen Szymczyk

Andrea Mims, Mary Schappell

Annabelle Paddon

Bruce Niemeyer

Becky Hamilton

Lynn Redington, Tyler Smith

Anna Black, Joey Kervin, Patty Sykstus, Michelle Thornton, Joshua Yarbrough

Dennis Fakes, Lisa Starks, Martha Yarbrough

Luke Falkenberg, Walter Kittelson, Jennifer Mullin

Hope Falkenberg, Carl Ise

Logan Roth

Wyatt Billman

Lorelee Black, Harry Wiley, Brigitte Winch

Shannon Siegel, Kathy West

Harold Peterson, Peg Skrenes

Nancy Hosenthien, Mary Jo McNabb, Alwynna Vinson

Abigail Schlapman

Eric Bale, Isabel Folgmann, Tate Schappell, Rachel Simmons

Elizabeth Wade

Gavin Deason, Sam Sykstus

If your birthday is in March and it is not listed,

please contact the church office.

March 2014 SUN MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT

1 Alassippi

9:30AM Faith & Fiction Book Group

2 Alassippi

8:30AM Contemporary Worship

9:45AM Sunday School for All Ages

11AM Traditional Worship

3 11AM Isaiah Bible Study

5:30PM Sanctuary Praise Team Rehearsal

6:30PM Prayer & Devotion Small Group

4 1PM Knit & Crochet

5:30PM Handbell Rehearsal

6:30PM Mission Team Meeting

5 Ash Wednesday

6:06AM 6:06 Svc

9AM Ruth Circle

10AM Blessings

12PM Ash Wed. Svc.

1PM Ukulele Choir

5:30PM Variety Show Dress Rehearsal

6PM WWW

7PM Ash Wed. Svc.

7:30PM Choir

6 11AM Good News Small Group

5:30PM Mark IV Practice

630PM Praise Team Rehearsal

7 9AM 2x2 Bible Study

9AM Altar Guild

8 10AM PoYC

5PM Variety Show

9 Daylight Savings Time




2nd Sunday Homeless

1:15PM Sr. High Youth

2PM Tweeners/JrHigh


5:30PM Exec. Comm. Meeting

5:30PM Sanctuary Praise Team Rehearsal

6:30PM Prayer & Devotion Small Group

7PM Rachel Circle

11 9AM EGA Board

10AM Deborah Circle

1PM Knit & Crochet


6:30PM Wind

Ensemble

12 6:06AM 6:06 Prayer & Devotion

1PM Ukulele Choir Rehearsal

4PM Bd/Worship

5PM Lenten Meal

5:15PM WWW

6:30PM Lenten Svc.

7PM St. Mark’s Choir


1PM PEO Rehearsal


6:30PM Praise Team Rehearsal

7PM Martha Circle

7PM PEO Rehearsal

14 Confirmation

Retreat

9AM 2x2 Bible Study

9AM Altar Guild

15 Confirmation Retreat

16 Confirmation Retreat





5:30PM Church Council Meeting

5:30PM Sanctuary Praise Team

6:30PM Prayer & Devotion Small

18 10AM Deliver Meals on Wheels

1PM Knit & Crochet



1PM Ukulele Choir Rehearsal

5PM Lenten Meal

5:15PM WWW

6:30PM Lenten Svc.


20 April

Newsletter Deadline

10AM Good News Small Group

11AM Free Spirits




9AM Altar Guild

22

23 8:30AM Contemporary Worship



Sr. High Movies

30 8:30AM Contemporary Worship

9:45AM Sunday School

11AM Traditional

Worship


5:30PM Sanctuary Praise Team 6:30PM Prayer & Devotion Small Group


5:30PM Sanctuary Praise Team

6:30PM Prayer & Devotion Small

25 9AM EGA

1PM Knit & Crochet


6:30PM Wind

Ensemble

7PM EGA


1PM Ukulele Choir R

5PM Lenten Meal

6:30PM Lenten Svc.






9AM Altar Guild

29

Non Profit Org.

U. S. Postage

PAID

Huntsville, ALA

Permit No. 308

St. Mark’s Staff Directory

Church Address: 200 Longwood Dr. SE, Huntsville, AL 35801

Church Phone: 256-539-4361 Church Fax: 256-539-4388

Senior Pastor: Extension 15……………..………. .………..Dennis Fakes ([email protected])

Music Director: Extension 17………..………………...Ferdinand Murati ([email protected])

Dir. of Children’s Ministry: Extension 16…..….……...….Traci Billman ([email protected])

Office Manager: Extension 14……..…….......................………...Emily Hall ([email protected])

Office Assistant: Extension 10…………………....Connie Jaramillo ([email protected])

Organist/Pianist: ………………......………….. …..,,,,……………..Dr. Mira Kruja ([email protected])

Youth Director: ………………..…....………...…… Missy Ontiveros ([email protected])

www.stmarkshsv.org

St. Mark’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

200 Longwood Dr. SE

Huntsville, AL 35801-2741

Phone: (256) 539-4361

Email: [email protected]

Return Address Requested








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