SHELLS
EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH
287 Shells Church Road, Grantville,
PA 17028
Office: 469-2586
Fax: 469-1077
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SHELLS
EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH
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There comes a time when autumn
asks,
That time is now. September is upon us and I find myself wondering where the summer went. What have you been doing all summer? Did you have the opportunity to relax and recreate during these short weeks of long days? Are you ready to embrace the opportunities that are on the horizon for fall and winter? As I listen to those around me, I have the impression that, contrary to many assumptions, summer is just as busy as other times of the year. Fall is no exception. How will you prioritize your time for the fall? On a scale of one to ten where do worship and church involvement fall on your list? I would like to highlight a new opportunity for biblical reflection and fellowship. Beginning on September 8 at 6:30 p.m., we begin Mayberry and a Meal. The meal will be potluck, and we will target Bible Study to begin between 7:00 and 7:15 p.m. Our time together will be concluded by 8:00 p.m. Beginning in October, this event will occur on the first Wednesday of every month (except during Lent) until May of 2011. The Bible study is called the Mayberry Bible Study and is based on episodes of the old Andy Griffith Show. In order to save time and the environment, you are encouraged to bring your own place settings. If that’s not possible, plates, etc. are available in the social hall. What you have done all summer is history. What you will do with the fall or 2010 is yet to be determined. As we look forward to a change in life’s rhythm, let us remember that our times are in God’s hands. P.S. I recently learned a new acronym for the word “busy” – burdened under satan’s yoke.
Yours together in Christ, Pastor Linda
ELCA NEWS SERVICE ELCA Commits $100,000 for Pakistan Flood Response August 2010
CHICAGO (ELCA) -- International Disaster Response (IDR) of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) has committed $100,000 in response to widespread flooding in Pakistan. The organization will work through a U.S.-based ecumenical partner disaster response agency, Church World Service (CWS), New York. "It is through the ELCA's commitment to strong ecumenical partnerships that we are pre-positioned to respond with CWS to those affected in Pakistan," said The Rev. Rafael Malpica Padilla, Executive Director, ELCA Global Mission. He added that the ELCA's efforts with CWS are "an expression of the global ACT (Action by Churches Together) Alliance." As many as 1,500 people have died in the Pakistan floods -- caused by the seasonal monsoon -- and at least 1.5 million people were displaced by severe flooding in five provinces of the country. The provinces include Balochistan, Punjab, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Kyber Paktunkwa and Sindh. The monsoon normally affects Pakistan between June and September. The military deployed 30,000 troops who have helped rescue nearly 21,000 people. Rescue workers are struggling to save more than 27,000 people still trapped by the water. A spokesperson for Pakistan's National Disaster Management Authority said the most pressing humanitarian needs are food and safe drinking water. Assessments conducted by CWS and other partner organizations indicated that survivors face serious challenges given the loss of housing, crops and livestock, according to Megan Bradfield, IDR Associate Director, ELCA Global Mission. In addition to the human toll, more than 100 bridges have been destroyed and more than 3,700 houses have been swept away, CWS reported. Bradfield said initial efforts by CWS have included providing food and shelter kits; conducting assessments in affected areas and identifying beneficiaries; and providing emergency health assistance through a mobile health unit. Based on its assessments, CWS plans to provide emergency assistance to an estimated 70,000 people, food assistance to about 35,000 people, emergency shelter supplies to meet the needs of about 17,500 people, and mobile health access for 17,500 people, she added. Information about how the ELCA responds to disasters is at http://www.ELCA.org/disaster on the ELCA Web site. Information about Church World Service is at http://www.churchworldservice.org on the Web. Vacation Bible School Energy, Enthusiasm, Commitment. These words describe the atmosphere at this year’s VBS. We tried something different and it was a success. This year, families were able to attend together. Fellowship Hall was transformed into the Garden of Eden with cardboard scenes painted by Judy Leininger. During the week, some scenery was moved to the sanctuary for our performance on Sunday, July 18. This year's intergenerational participants were able to learn music and words to all 8 songs in the musical, “Adam’s Apple”, as well as learning the motions and speaking parts. We had 49 participants, ranging in age from 2 to adults. Many families joined together. We were able to have so many participants because we had several members who did an exceptional job of witnessing. Neighbors and relatives accepted their invitations. The musical featured Caitlin as Eve and Brandon as Adam. Caitlin and Emily had solos. Sharon and Catherine reminded us during their solo/duet that God is always there to listen to our prayers. Their singing was very moving. Besides learning our musical, the preschoolers and elementary children participated in crafts and games each evening. Thanks to Janet Klos and Lily Klos respectively for their help. Adults also made their sneaky snake for the musical with the guidance from Sherry Davis. Prior to Saturday’s rehearsal, Zoo America was at the pavilion and presented their native PA animals. Lillian did a fantastic job showing and telling us about the birds and mammals. She also answered questions about other animals. A special thanks to Diana Budd for coordinating the donations of food for the meal prior to VBS each evening. Also special thanks to Marianne Germann for the set-up, assembly and clean-up each evening. I do want to note: All adults were willing to help wherever it was needed. No specific directions were given and they were there to lend a helping hand. Finally, thanks to Barb Dupler and Barb Kreamer for their time and energy devoted before and during the week in order for us to accomplish another successful week of VBS! This year, I do need to give a big thanks to everyone who participated. Below is a list of all 49 participants. You were awesome!
PRESCHOOL 1. Evan Dupler
ELEMENTARY
TEENS
ADULTS
In His Service, Connie Terry   COUNCIL CORNER COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES Rick Blair, Council President, called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. Those present: Rick Blair, Steve Espenshade, Marianne Germann, Justine Hilbert, Vicki Hilbert, Angie Hilf, Joe Hoover, Pastor Linda Hostetter, Don Leininger, and Sheryl Rozman. Dave Rodemaker and Jean Stammel were excused. The first order of business was to welcome Marianne Germann as a new member of Council. Rick Blair then proposed an official action of council to vote on the acceptance of Justine Hilbert for a one-year term as a youth member of Council. She will work as a liaison with Vicki Hilbert and the Youth Group. All members of Council voted unanimously in favor of this action. Council meeting minutes from May 11, 2010 were reviewed. Sheryl Rozman made a motion to accept the minutes; Joe Hoover seconded. Motion carried. Treasurer’s report for May 2010 was reviewed. Joe Hoover made a motion to approve the report; Don Leininger seconded. Motion carried. Report will be filed for audit. Financial Secretary’s report for May 2010 was reviewed. Joe Hoover made a motion to approve the report; Vicki Hilbert seconded. Motion carried. Report will be filed for audit. Correspondence was received as follows: · Thank you letters from the Grantville Area Food Pantry and Lutheran Camping Corporation of Central Pennsylvania regarding donations. · A letter from South Central EMS soliciting an annual donation. A motion was made by Joe Hoover to donate $50.00. Don Leininger seconded. Motion carried. Pastor’s report for May was reviewed. In addition, Pastor would like Council members to once again give the opening devotion and prayers. Beginning in August, the Devotion/Prayer list will be revised to include both opening and closing devotions and prayers. Ministry Reports: Worship – Jean Stammel was excused. No report was submitted. Altar Care – No action required. Witness – Vicki Hilbert indicated no action required. Learning – Dave Rodemaker was excused. No report was submitted; however, VBS is up and running. Service – Minutes from the June 1st meeting were reviewed. Fellowship – Marianne Germann spoke about the possibility of a church picnic, along with games and activities, to be held in September. The idea was favorably received among members of Council. Marianne will continue working on firming up details and will report accordingly. Race Track - No action required. Health – Jean Stammel was excused. No report was submitted. Card Ministry – No action required. Finance – No action required. Property – No action required. Stewardship – Rick Blair reported that a meeting was held just prior to this evening’s Council meeting. Three points of business were discussed: A new Thrivent matching program, continuation of the commitment card program, and the development of a green stewardship. Erica Hilbert will write an article on this point of business and it will appear in the newsletter. Minutes from the Stewardship Committee meeting will be submitted at the Council meeting in August. Strategic Planning – Minutes from the June 3rd meeting were reviewed. Youth – Vicki submitted a copy of the 2010 summer schedule. Mutual Ministry – No action required. Unfinished Business: · Rick Blair inquired as to whether any new details were available regarding the Pictorial Directory. Angie Hilf advised that she had discussed this with Karen Gussler and she had nothing new to report. Both coordinators will keep Council informed as details are made available to them. New Business: · Rick Blair reminded all members that there are many opportunities to serve on various committees/ministries and additional help is always welcome. Angie Hilf closed with devotions and a prayer.... Joe Hoover made a motion to adjourn; Sheryl Rozman seconded. Motion passed. Meeting adjourned at 7:50 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Angie Hilf, Council Secretary A complete copy of the minutes and all reports is available on the bulletin board by the office.
2010/2011 COUNCIL Rick Blair, President Steve Espenshade, Vice President Justine Hilbert, Youth Liaison Vicki Hilbert, Witness Liaison Angie Hilf, Secretary Joe Hoover, Finance Don Leininger, Mutual Liaison Dave Rodemaker, Learning & Fellowship Liaison Sheryl Rozman, Service Jean Stammel, Health & Worship Liaison
a new pictorial directory. SAVE the following dates on your calendar: Olan Mills will be at Shells Church on Friday, October 15, Saturday, October 16 & Monday, October 25. A free 8x10 color portrait & parish pictorial directory for just coming in & sitting for a portrait. After the sitting, you can immediately preview your photos from their digital imaging system. Additional information and sign ups will be forthcoming. Karen Gussler & Angie Hilf
Grantville Area Food Pantry Because you have shared generously, our volunteers have been able to provide. Thank you. In faith, Carolyn Williams for the Board. Grantville Food Pantry served 408 families, 985 people, 325 children, 659 adults and 586 bags of food were given. We appreciate all of your donations to help feed those in need. If you would like to volunteer, please call Marianne Germann at 469-7415.  PRAYER LIST Church Family: Ken Espenshade, Ken Fasnacht, Alvin Huber, Mary Kreiser, Lore Lilley, Sandy Musser, Iva Rodemaker, Jean Stammel, Phyllis Vogler, Learning Ministry, our shut-ins and service women and men, especially Jim Harmon. Copies of Prayer List, September Prayer Ventures and Upper Rooms are available in the outer Narthex. Family & Friends: Theresa Aldons, Gail Allen, Nila Anderson, Senator Albert Belan, Frank Bricker, Jessie Budd, Mike Caldwell, Tammy Carillo, Catherine Cassel, Abel Centurion, Chrissy, Victoria Clark, Ethel Crowell, Randy Crowell, Jeff Davis, Lauri Deardorff, Joan DeFalco, Andrea Dissinger, Sean Doherty, Laura Donkus, Harriett Elliott, Matt Ermish, Terry Fake, Catherine Farley, Rachel Fisher, Charlie Gipe, Grace & Gavin, Dennis Hess, Quentin Hetrick, Gary & Susan Hogman, Charles Housel, Lee Hoyer, Rev. Wilson Hoyer, Hummel Family, Robert Keller, Brielle Kelly, Dave Kirkpatrick, Robert Kodak, Colin Kratzer, Tyler Kreider, Lynn Kuhn, Laura, Barb Lauver, Melvin Lingle, Penny Meyer, Brian Miller, Rev. Clarence Moore, Ronald Morton, Jim Nickle, Michael Nickle, Richard Nickle, Dean Oellig, April Parr, Eleanor Peffer, Rev. Peter Perella, Lisa M. Platt, Dennis Potami, Pat Rhine, Patrick Roller, Roberta Rumfelt, Allison S., Linda & Jeff Sanders, Thom Schwartz, Heather Sharpe, William Sheetz, Silje, Tammy & Sullivan Stapf, Alex Stammel, Tina, John Walmer, Brian Watts, Jolene Weaver, Wilson Family, Mildred Witmer, Jennifer Yashinski, & Brian Zern. Anyone wishing to place someone on the prayer list may call Karen Gussler, Prayer Chain Coordinator at 717-838-4946 or email her at goldenguss@comcast.net (Please place, “Prayer Chain,” in the subject line of your email.) A Prayer Chain list is available in our Narthex.
Race Track Ministry Meal Thank you so much to our benefactors and helpers. We fed 70+ people on August 16. Our success and appreciation belongs to all of you. No RTM Meal for September or October. Bless you. Genny & Don
WELCOME BACK BREAKFAST!! Learning Ministry cordially invites you to attend a breakfast in our Fellowship Hall, between worship services. This is a great opportunity for fellowship following the summer months! All ages are encouraged to attend. September 12 – Welcome Back Breakfast at 9:15 AM in the Social Hall!! Donations of your favorite breakfast casserole, fruits, drinks or sweets will be needed. Please see Connie or Marianne, if you can donate a food item. MAYBERRY & A MEAL!!! Wednesday, September 8 – 6:30 to 8:00 PM
We will have a “Potluck Supper” and Bible Study the first Wednesdays of each month beginning at 6:30 PM. Come join us as we explore God’s Word. If you have any questions or would like to attend, please see Pastor Linda. 
Sunday School classes begin on September 19th at 9:15 AM. +++++++++++++ RALLY DAY!! Sunday,October 31st 9:15 AM in the Sanctuary Please join us.
We’ve got mail! “Dear Friends at Shells: ...Thank you for your recent gift of $200...The summer camping season is drawing toward a close....We are an extension of your ministry. As such, we look forward to having members of your congregation join us whenever possible at Kirchenwald, Nawakwa, and/or the Wittel Farm. We really appreciate your partnership in ministry year after year! Yours in Christ, The Rev. David W. Clark, Dir. of Dev., Lutheran Camping Corporation of Central Pennsylvania”
Calling all volunteers!
Shells ministries are regrouping for another year. Please prayerfully consider the following ministries: Altar Guild, Card, Fellowship, Health, Learning, Mutual, Property, Race Track Meals, Service, Stewardship, Strategic Planning, Witness, Worship & Music, or Youth, assisting in worship as: an acolyte, for altar care, assisting minister, communion assistant, greeter/usher, lector or nursery assistant. If you would like to participate in one of these ministries, please contact a council member or the church office. Thank you.
WORSHIP & MUSIC MINISTRY Green Paraments Green is by far the most common color seen during the year. Lutheran worship calls for its use during the seasons of Epiphany and Pentecost. The first Sunday following the first full moon after the vernal equinox (March 21), also known as Easter Sunday, determines the length of these two seasons. The days of Epiphany may entail a total of 8 Sundays. The season of Pentecost, on the other hand, can last from 22-28 Sundays. Green is the appointed color for all but a few of the Sundays during these seasons. Consequently, green may be used an average of 6-8 months of any given liturgical year. Epiphany’s message of Christ’s revelation to the Gentiles, along with the season’s traditional emphasis on extending Christ’s kingdom through missions, calls for the use of green—the color symbolic of growth. The Sundays following Pentecost, observed as “the time of the church,” share a somewhat similar theme as that of Epiphany. Affectionately called the season of the “green meadow,” no doubt due to the fact of green being the established color, these Sundays also emphasize the subject of growth. Green is a neutral color, but there is nothing colorless about our need to grow and mature as disciples of Jesus Christ. That’s why the “green meadow” time of the church year is so lengthy. ASSISTING MINISTER'S WORKSHOP Sunday, September 26 at 9:15 AM Would you like to learn what is involved in participating in worship as an Assisting Minister?
Now is your opportunity. Pastor Linda will be conducting a workshop to teach the fundamentals of an Assisting Minister. Please consider becoming a worship leader? If you have any questions, please see Pastor Linda.
HELP US CARE FOR GOD'S EARTH!! We need your help! The Stewardship Committee would like to expand on the green initiatives we already have at Shells. We have programs such as recycling bulletins in the office, but we can do more! What else can we do to help Shells ‘go green’ and care for our Lord’s earth? Please contact Erica Hilbert with any thoughts or ideas! STUDENTS INFORMATION As colleges and universities open their doors for another school year, we would like to have our Shells Church family names, addresses and email addresses that are attending higher education this fall. Please provide the student(s) address by calling the church office at 469-2586, emailing to shellsadmin@verizon.net, or placing a note in Pam’s mailbox by Sunday, September 12. Throughout the school year, we mail devotionals and the Shells Messenger to our students while they are away. Thank you. Students Information Students Name:_______________________ _______________________
College Address: _____________________ ___________________________________ Email Address:________________________
We had our last event of the summer in July. We had 3 youth that were able to attend the Swim Party/BBQ. We also decided to open up the invitation to family and friends. We had a total of 12 participants throughout the day and evening. A special thanks to Nadine and Rich Espenshade for their help & the yummy brownies and hotdogs they provided for dinner. The month of August was left open for remaining summer vacations. Entertainment Books are here and going fast: The cost is once again $30.00. The proceeds will be used to buy toys for the Food Pantry Children for Christmas. This is one of our favorite "Family of Faith" traditions. Will you please help us by asking neighbors, friends, if they would like a book? How about a book for yourself? Thanks so much for your past and present support. Checks need to be made payable to Shells Youth Group. You can call us, please leave a voicemail, e-mail us, or see us in person at church. Mark your calendars: YG Meeting September 12, regular time We would like to meet with the parents at 5:30 PM. Please bring medical information, etc. with you. September 17, 18, 19: Alive, Alive for those that pre-registered in June. Sunday, September 26, American Heart Association Walk (Details and time(s) will be announced.) Sunday, October 17, an away activity in the afternoon (time and details announced at a later time) Sunday, October 31, YG meeting regular time In His Service, Jim and Laurie
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