RE-FOCUS
A Publication of Reformation Lutheran Church
Volume 22 January 2002 Number 1
From the Interim Pastor
"O little town of Bethlehem, how still we see thee
lie! Above thy deep and dreamless sleep, the silent stars go by. Yet in thy dark streets
shineth the everlasting light. The hopes and fears of all the years are met in thee
tonight." By Philip Brooks
We sang of the birth of our Savior Jesus Christ at Christmas, filled with the deep
wonder of the time long ago. Thank you to all who gave their gifts of time, music, many
talents, and love to grace our Advent and Christmas seasons! Together we experienced the
light of Christ shining in our midst.
At Reformation our year that is ending has been full of so many experiences! I am glad
that our transition into the year 2002 comes with God’s Word of promise, hope and
love of the coming of Christ. Emmanuel-God with us! That is our source of strength.
Deaconess Doreen Scheuerman will complete her ministry here at the end of January. All
of us, I especially, will miss her! I give thanks to God for the fine education and youth
programs she has helped to develop, and for her gifts of fun and caring with people of all
ages. We will bid farewell on Sunday, January 27, in worship and at the luncheon reception
at noon.
Even in the midst of change, we can see this as a time of anticipation and
transformation. The carol’s words, "The hopes and fears of all the years are met
in thee..." ring true! God is doing something new here! The Call Committee is ready
to consider in January candidates for pastor. Who will it be and when? What new directions
for mission will be offered?
New opportunities for discerning our personal and spiritual gifts will be offered, for
Christian discipleship in daily life and in the congregation. We will involve lay
assisting ministers in worship
services. There will be preparation for this on January 26-this does not require
previous experience or education.
Every confirmed member is encouraged to take part in the congregation’s Annual
Meeting on January 27 after the luncheon. These are important days. Come to see what is
happening!
As one year ends and another begins, in our church, our homes, our community, our
world, we remember who we are and whose we are: Servants of God, Guided by the Spirit, to
Make Christ Known.
God’s blessings to you today and every day!
- Pastor Sally Fahrenthold
From the Deaconess
Nobody has ever mistaken me for a comedian or a late night
host, but I thought I would try my hand at a top ten list for my final column in the Refocus.
There are so many things to say as I begin closure here at Reformation, but as I write
this on Dec. 24, I don’t know exactly how to say them. So here is my attempt to keep
things on the light side as we all prepare for my last Sunday on January 27th. Most of the
10 items are based on comments I have really heard from people.
THE TOP 10 REASONS I SHOULD STAY
- 10. Who will bake the Valentine cookies for LOGOS?
- 9. Some people hate to cry in church.
- 8. The library may not be finished by January 31.
- 7. Who is going to keep the 7th graders in control?
- 6. If someone else bakes the Communion bread, it may not crumble all over the floor.
- 5. Ruth won’t have anyone to call at the last minute to be cantor.
- 4. Nobody can "fill up" an office like me.
- 3. Who will help the acolytes and communion assistants get dressed properly?
- 2. There are still people at Reformation who do not know what a deaconess is or does.
- 1. The offer of Rose Bowl tickets is too good to resist!
May God bless all of us this month with God’s love and peace as we begin to say
goodbye after 4 ½ years of being in ministry together. Hopefully, we can share both
laughter and tears in these last days together.
- Deaconess Doreen Scheuerman
We want to thank our Reformation family for their prayers and support while we were
hospitalized. The phone calls, cards, and food brought to the house after getting home was
so thoughtful. The "special attention" from Pastor Sally and our Parish Nurses,
Barb and Jette, was greatly appreciated.
God bless you all (as He did us),
- Les & Dorla Alseike
* * *
Thank you, friends from Reformation, for your prayers, cards, food, and calls at the
time of my recent surgery and recuperation. A special thanks to Pastor Sally, Jette, and
Barb for their visits and prayers while I was hospitalized.
- Clarice Peters
* * *
Thank you for the Seminarian fund-raiser held on my behalf last month. I am
appreciative also to the AAL for providing matching funds for this event. I have heard
from several people what a delightful breakfast it was! Your graciousness toward me is
greatly appreciated. A special thanks to Jette Mortensen for sharing with the congregation
the gift of her homemade aebleskivers! From what I understand, the making of this pastry
is a tedious task-one rightly noted as a gift given in love. Thank you, Jette.
- Laura Ulicky-Weerts
* * *
Thanks to everyone who took an angel from the Angel Tree and returned the gift(s) so
promptly. A "special thank" you to Nadine Norton and Eva Whetstone for helping
to organize and then sort the angel gifts. Another big THANK YOU to our "Golfers for
God" group, who purchased many angel gifts and bought a television, Play Station 1,
calculators, computer & monitor for the Oaks children. Jerry & Eva Whetstone then
personally delivered the items. I wish you all a hole-in-one this new year! Imagine the
smiles on the recipients who opened all these thoughtful gifts from you! God’s
blessings to you all,
Pam Adams,
Community Outreach Coordinator
* * *
Thank you so very much for your thoughtful and generous Christmas gift! Glenn and I are
deeply touched by your gracious notes, cards, and special financial gift. The greatest
gift for us is to be part of this congregation and to have the opportunity to minister
among you. Your many ways of expressing your faith are inspiring and mean a lot to us.
Thank you!
- Pastor Sally
* * *
Thank you for the generous financial gift from the congregation at Christmas time, and
for those individual gifts. Your thoughtfulness and caring is greatly appreciated.
- Deaconess Doreen
* * *
Many thanks from all of us for the Christmas bonus checks we received. We very much
appreciate the generosity of the congregation. It is our good pleasure to be employees of
Reformation, and we thank you all for your many kindnesses-at Christmastime and always!
Clark Rice • Eugenia Yau • Nina Kindt
Becky Holden Deckard • Ruth Koepsel
Carole Lyons
Women of Reformation
CIRCLE MEETINGS
- Priscilla, Tuesday, January 8, 1:30 p.m., in church library
- Dorcas, Wednesday, January 16, 1:00 p.m., at the home of Shirley Metz, 10106 Mainsgate
Cir.
- Sarah, Monday, January 21, 7:00 p.m., at the home of Deanne Fortney, 1441 N. Rock Rd.,
#2103
New Officers were elected at the luncheon on December 4. They are:
- Shari Ryding, President
- Kathy Drake, Secretary
- Janice Barr, Mission: Community
The WELCA Board, which includes all officers and circle leaders, will meet
Monday, January 7, at 1:00 p.m. in the church library.
Plan to join us for Women’s Night Out on Tuesday, January 22, 6:30
p.m. We will meet at the Timberline Steak House, 21st & Rock Rd. For reservations,
sign up on the nursery door or call Kimberly Lindemann, 691-1440.
Lutheran Woman Today subscriptions are due NOW.
Looking Ahead . . .
- Triennial Convention in Philadelphia, July 2002
- Synod Convention in Tulsa, September 2002
Reformation Benevolence
Reformation Lutheran Church has received letters expressing
thankfulness and appreciation for recent financial support from:
- Bethany College
- Christian Ministries to Offenders
- ELCA Disaster Response (9/11 Relief Efforts)
- Lutheran Social Service
- Mennonite Housing
- Sedgwick County Zoo
- United Methodist Urban Ministry (Food Bank)
Best Times of Life
Reformation’s fellowship group for those 55 and over, will meet Monday, January
14, at 12:00 noon in Parish Hall. Come and join us for delicious food and friendly
fellowship. Max Kirkes will share some of his cowboy poetry with us. Don your western
wear, bring a covered dish, your own table service, and plan on a fun afternoon. To make
reservations, call Pauline (942-4885) or Betty (682-2030)
Epiphany Sunday
The Epiphany of Our Lord is the January 6
celebration of the good news of Christ’s birth going forth to all people. On this
traditional "Twelfth Night" we remember the visit of the Magi, or Wise Men, to
discover Jesus, and then going to far away places with the news.
On January 6 we will celebrate Epiphany in worship and adult class. People of the
congregation who have come from other countries will offer worship prayers in their native
languages (and in English). In the 9:45 a.m. class in the Parish Hall they will tell of
Christmas and Epiphany traditions in their homelands. All are welcome.
Congregation Annual Meeting
The Annual Meeting of Reformation Lutheran Church will be
held on Sunday, January 27. A luncheon will be served at 12:15 by the high
school youth, with recognition of Deaconess Doreen Scheuerman’s ministry and the
meeting following. Highlights will include the annual report of Reformation’s
ministries, Call Committee, budget for 2002, and more. All confirmed members are invited
and encouraged to take part.
The Budget for 2002 will be presented and discussed the previous Sunday, January
20, in the Parish Hall during the 9:45 a.m. Sunday school hour. This is an
opportunity for full information and discussion of the fiscal foundation for current and
future ministries. Again, all confirmed members are encouraged to come.
Deaconess Doreen Farewell
We will bid a fond farewell to Deaconess Doreen Scheuerman,
who has resigned effective
January 31. Doreen came to Reformation June 16, 1997. She was consecrated as a
Deaconess on August 1, 1993. She has provided leadership in developing ministries of
Sunday School, Vacation Bible School, LOGOS, youth ministries, families, and worship. She
has also been a valued leader in our Central States Synod, Area Ministry 5 (ELCA
congregations in south-central Kansas), and Camp Tomah Shinga. She has been a living
example of deaconal ministry - consecrated professional lay service - and has helped us
understand that we are called to service through our Baptism, and all are gifted to serve
God and neighbor in our personal walks of discipleship.
Deaconess Doreen will be recognized in both worship services on January 27
and at the luncheon reception at noon that day, prior to the Annual Meeting. We invite
contributions toward the congregation’s gift of appreciation. Please make checks
payable to Reformation, designated for Deaconess’ gift. Thank you.
First Communion Class
We are offering another First Communion Class on Saturday,
January 19, from 9:00-11:45 a.m. We provide the class, not only for those
children who want to begin receiving Holy Communion, but also to help parents and
children, with the input of Pastor Sally, to discern readiness for the Sacrament. In
accordance with the policy on Holy Communion adopted by this congregation in the summer of
2001, the class is open to children of all ages and their parents, as well as to any older
youth or adult who does not currently receive Communion. Please call the church office by
January 14 to let us know how many from your family will be attending the class.
Confirmation Note
The parents of our 7th grade confirmation students are
invited to a Family Session on Wednesday, January 16. You are welcome to
join us for dinner at 6:10 p.m. for the price of $2.00. Please let Deaconess Doreen know
by Monday that week. Our learning session will begin at 6:45 p.m. for those who will be
joining us then.
Assisting Ministers to Help with Worship
Assisting Ministers have a meaningful way to serve Christ
and the congregation. Reformation will have Assisting Ministers in Sunday worship services
soon. Assisting Ministers will help serve Holy Communion and offer some of the prayers in
the service as Deaconess Doreen Scheuerman does currently. They will also assist other
worship leaders and visiting pastors as they prepare for worship.
Any confirmed member is eligible to serve as an assisting Minister. People who
currently serve as Communion Assistants and Lectors are especially encouraged to consider
this opportunity to serve in another spiritually meaningful way. Training preparation will
be offered Saturday, January 26, 9:00-10:30 a.m. in the sanctuary. Please
call the church office, 634-0586, to indicate your interest.
Library Corner
In January, check out the books displayed in the narthex on
the new blue book truck. Some of the books you will find there include: Sanctuary
and The Crossroad, two adult fiction books by Beverly Lewis that take you
into the lives of the Pennsylvania Amish.
The Family Hand-Me-Down Book, by Debbie Trafton O’Neal, offers ideas
for sharing family traditions and spending time together as a family.
Want to discover how your children give and receive love? Check out Five Love
Languages of Children by Gary Chapman and Ross Campbell.
Preschoolers will enjoy a series of small books entitled, My First Prayers.
Each book reveals God’s love and God’s creation to them in the form of prayer.
Children who want to know where God is, might enjoy, God Goes with Me. Lower
elementary children will enjoy reading for themselves I Have Enough Stuff!.
Nurturing Faith in the Home
As parents you are the teacher and example of faith
practices. As we lift up the faith practice of Inviting this month, remember that
your children learn most from your actions.
God calls each of us to share God’s Good News with others. Here are some ways you
can help your children learn to be inviting children of God:
- Take time around the dinner table to identify some friends or neighbors you might invite
to worship with you. Pray for the opportunity to invite and for their openness to come.
- Look over upcoming programs and church activities. Identify occasions that might be
natural entry points for unchurched friends who may already have a relationship with you
or your children. Children are always encouraged to bring friends to Sunday School, LOGOS,
and youth activities. Sunday School attendance often drops after December. Encourage your
child(ren) to invite a friend to come to Sunday School with them.
- Invite neighbors and friends to come to your home for an evening where they can
experience God’s presence as you provide friendship and hospitality.
- Pray with your children on a regular basis, asking God to inspire your words and deeds
to be reflections of God’s presence in the lives of others.
- Check out the Nanny & Isaiah video, Wonder Witness and Mighty Mouth to
watch as a family and talk about how to talk with others about God.
- You can use the book Jesus Wants All of Me to talk with your children about how
they can share God’s love with those around them.
Our Mid-Week Children’s Program
Building Christian relationships in a four-part retreat
experience.
The LOGOS staff would like to thank the many congregation members who have graciously
donated home-baked pies and cookies during this past holiday season. Without this
wonderful support, we wouldn’t have been able to have all of those great desserts!
The children of our LOGOS program were recognized in a special letter from the Wichita
Police Department’s Chief Norman Williams, thanking the children for the many
beautiful drawings and letters they sent.
LOGOS is a four-part congregational ministry dedicated to nurturing school-age children
(K-6th grade) into discipleship. The four-part program consists of: Recreation, Worship,
Family Time, and Bible Study. LOGOS meets every Wednesday evening October-May) from 5:00
to 7:45 p.m.
Each week there will be a different theme. In January, the LOGOS themes will be as
follows:
- Jan. 2- No LOGOS
- Jan. 9 - The Big Birthday Bash
- Jan. 16 - Space Odyssey
- Jan. 23 - Baby Face
- Jan. 30 - Souper Bowl
Join the fun on Wednesday nights! Bring a friend!
Group Support Offered
Westlink Christian Church, 8810 W. 10th St., in Wichita,
will offer a Divorce Recovery Workshop on Wednesdays, January 16 through
March 6, 7:00-8:30 p.m. Also, ShareHope, a Grief Recovery Support Group
for those grieving the death of a spouse is ongoing at Westlink and features a 12-week
video session, Thursdays at 6:45 p.m. Additional information and registration forms are
available in the church office.
Drama Ministry Team Comes To Reformation January 13
Have you ever wondered how the last drama you saw was
assembled and presented for your enjoyment and education? Have you ever wondered how one
becomes involved in such a venture? Well, now is the time to get the answers to these
questions.
On Sunday, January 13, at 5:30 p.m., the conveners for the
Drama Ministry Team will host an organizational meeting in the Parish Hall. If you have
ever thought about acting, constructing, costuming, designing, directing, lighting,
producing, propping, sounding or writing, then you need to be present. Become an integral
part of the ministry of Reformation.
Bring your imagination, enthusiasm, ideas, wants and desires. Help to develop a
meaningful ministry team that caters to our congregational needs. Being present and
sharing your thoughts and ideas with others is what will make this ministry team
successful. Be a part of this collaborative art form. For it is only through the
collaboration of our time and talents that liturgical drama will succeed at Reformation.
Bring your appetite, too, because the conveners will provide pizza to stimulate the
mind, sooth the soul, and encourage meaningful participation. Join with the crowd on
January 13 at 5:30 p.m. to share the faith, share ideas, and share philosophies. It is
always good to experience the "roar of the greasepaint and the smell of the
crowd" in the presence of good company. Remember, there is a "you" in
liturgical drama, believe it! Questions? Call Wil Johnson at 618-7876, or Gene Bowers at
744-2415.
Adventures in Learning for Seniors
All seniors are invited to participate in the Winter
Session of Adventures in Learning, sponsored by the East Wichita
Shepherd’s Center. This session runs from January 8 through February 26.
Classes on a wide variety of subjects are held on Tuesdays, 9:15 a.m. - 3:15 p.m., at East
Heights United Methodist Church, 4407 E. Douglas. Class schedules and registration forms
are available in the church narthex. A $30 registration fee is due by January 3 ($35 after
that date).
From the Seminary . . .
A Happy New Year to each and every one of you. It is always
a good feeling to be able to begin anew, to feel like you may have a chance to regain
control over old patterns in life that have, once again in a given year, overcome the best
of intentions. Unfortunately, we are not always successful in maintaining this control. It
is comforting to know that God is with us amid the task. Often, we forget that the Lord
has sovereignty over all the situations of life, especially those that overtake us or that
we find difficult to understand. I think we underestimate God and God's power. Maybe it is
time to loosen the reigns of our own control and give those reigns over to God. We may be
surprised at what results. My prayer for you this season is that you may find yourself
clinging to the hope of knowing God's care and concern for you. Please know that the Lord
is aware of every need and desire of your life. The prayer of Jabez embodies the sentiment
of one who seeks out Divine intervention. May it inspire you to do the same.
Jabez cried out to the Lord of Israel, "Oh, that you would bless me and enlarge my
territory! Let your hand be with me, and keep me from harm so that I will be free from
pain." And God granted his request.
(1 Chronicles 4:10)
Blessing and peace, Laura Ulicky-Weerts
