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Salem News

Middle School/High School Ski Trip January 20

Middle School & High School Ski Trip
Monday, January 20
Chestnut Mountain, Galena

Leaving Salem at 6:30am, returning about 7pm
Costs: $45 for lift, lesson, rental of skis or board ($25 for lift only); $10 for lunch, $10 for dinner on the way home

Return permission form and/or contact Julie Grendahl by January 12
Additional adult drivers/chaperones are needed!  Please contact Julie! (Julie.Grendahl@gmail.com)

Annual Congregational Meeting January 19

The Annual Congregational Meeting of Salem Lutheran Church will be held on Sunday, January 19, 2014 in the Fellowship Hall.  (The following Sunday, January 26, will be the back up date in case of postponement.)  The meeting will start promptly at 12:30pm and will be preceded by a luncheon starting at noon.  The main course and drinks will be provided with members asked to bring salads or desserts.  There is a sign-up sheet in the Welcome Center to offer to bring either a salad or a dessert.  Child care will be provided during the time of our meeting.

Family Sunday School January 19

This Family Sunday School is not just for our Sunday School students and their families; everyone in our Salem family is invited.  Please come enjoy breakfast and family with us at 9:15am in Fellowship Hall.  After breakfast join us for Grace Service.

Epiphany Worship Services January 4-5

Come and worship in celebration!  Don't forget we collect new children's clothing for Hope Haven that weekend in remembrance of the gifts the Magi brought to baby Jesus.

Poinsettia Orders Due December 16

Altar Guild will be taking orders for poinsettias to be placed around the altar for Christmas services.  Orders will be taken in the narthex before and after church services on December 7-8 and 14-15.

To order a plant, please fill out an order form and give it to an Altar Guild member in the narthex on the above dates, along with your payment.  Make your checks payable to "Glidden Florist."  Orders must be received by Monday, December 16.

Good Deed Gift Opportunity Through December 15

Salem's tradition of giving Good Deed Gifts will continue this Christmas season.

The Good Deed Angel Tree will be in place on Sunday, November 24 and anyone wishing to participate can take from the tree an angel with the name of a client at Avancer, formerly known as Genesis House.  All of the residents there have special challenges, some physically, some developmentally.  All of them could use a little cheering up during the holiday season, especially because some of their own families have financial challenges.  And all of these group-home residents will be grateful for anything that Salem members can provide for them!

The angels this year will be a photograph album for the gift giver to keep.  Some members of Salem have a collection of these angel ornaments from each year that we've been providing gifts for community members who aren't as well off as we are.

We know that in the holiday rush, these angel tags can be misplaced, so there will be a sign-up sheet near the tree as a fail-safe measure.  Signed-for angel tags can be replaced if they slip away somewhere!  The sign-up list won't make the gifts less anonymous.

Individual lists of suggestions will be printed on sticky-back paper, which should be peeled off whole and adhered onto the top corner of the wrapped gift.  The suggestion list also will include sizes and toy ideas to make the gift appropriate for the person and with that person's functioning age, as many have a child-like attitude on life.

The gifts should be placed in a box and wrapped as prettily as you want and, when the Sticky Tag is affixed to the present securely, bring the gift back to Salem, where each house's gifts will be placed in a bag to be distributed by Avancer.  We've found that boxes ride better together in the big bags, which are much like Santa's sacks of gifts and presents.

If you should have more than one gift for a person, please make sure they're all tied together securely and labeled well so they get to your person.

All the gifts should be returned to Salem by December 15, and we thank you for carrying on this tradition!

"Life Lessons from Hebrews" Study Concludes December 15

"Life Lessons from Hebrews"
November 3 - December 15
Between the 8am and 10:30am Sunday worship services

This will be a group experience of discovery in terms of the connection between disciples of the 1st century Christian Church and 21st century disciples of Jesus in U.S. American culture through the lens of the Book of Hebrews.  This can be a life-giving encounter with the living Word as found in the New Testament writings from the developing Church.  You are invited to share scripture study, conversation, coffee, and prayer with brothers and sisters in the Faith Community of Salem.

Sunday School Christmas Program December 15

Salem Sunday School children grades Beginners through 5th are working hard learning and practicing for a Christmas Program they will be presenting on December 15 at the 10:30am Grace service.  Please mark your calendars and start inviting family and friends.  The children are excited and looking forward to sharing this special morning with you!

Peder Eide Christmas Concert December 8

Peder is bringing his Peder Eide Wondrous Love Christmas Tour 2013 to Salem on Sunday, December 8, at 7pm.  If you enjoyed his music at his last Salem appearance, or you saw him at confirmation retreats at LOMC or Youth Quake, you're sure to enjoy his Christmas Concert as well.  Please join us in welcoming Peder back to Salem.  No tickets necessary, a free will offering will be collected.  Partial funding provided by the Mary E. Stevens Concert and Lecture Fund and through generous private donations from Salem members and Shrove Tuesday participants.

Salem's Christmas Cantata December 7-8

What Sweeter Music - A Festival of Carols by Mark Hayes
Presented for Salem worship services:
Saturday, December 7 - 5pm
Sunday, December 8 - 10:30am

Christmas Cantatas employ scripture, thoughtful narration, and medleys of songs and carols new and old to tell the most beloved story of Jesus come to earth.  Singers of all ages combine with an instrumental ensemble to share this Good News.  Familiar titles include Angels We Have Heard on High, O Holy Night, We Three Kings, Good Christians All Rejoice, Joy to the World, and O Come All Ye Faithful as well as a Cradle Medley including Away in a Manger and Silent Night.  Some carol arrangements include the congregation.  The cantata is presented by Salem Creative Arts Ministry under the leadership of Ron and Carla Vanatta.

What Sweeter Music is a Singing Memorial gifted in memory of Doris Castenson by her family and friends and in memory of Martha Jeanne Vanatta by the Celebration Voices Choir, Jim & Edie Eklund, and Ron & Carla Vanatta.

Thanksgiving Eve Worship November 27

Worship Service - 7pm
Pie & Coffee in Fellowship Hall - 8pm

Personal care products (shampoo, toothpaste, deodorant, etc) will be collected to share with the clients of our Food Pantry.  Come for an hour of festive praise and Holy Communion; enjoy a piece of pie after worship!  Sign up at the Welcome Center Table to bring a pie to share or to set up or clean up following the pie fellowship.  Thank you!

"Thanksgiving for Christians" Study Nov. 7, 14, 21

Thanksgiving for Christians Bible Study
First three Thursdays of November
November 7, 14, 21 - 7pm

"Every Day Is Thanksgiving for Christians" will be a Biblical journey of thanks in deed, in prayer, and in heaven.  The November 7 and 21 gatherings will be in Chapel Lounge.  The gathering on November 14 will be in Fellowship Hall.  Please sign up in the Welcome Center if you wish to attend.

If you have any questions, please call Judy Milroy at 815-751-3835.

Leadership Training Day November 16

The Salem Council would like to invite interested congregation members to attend a training day November 16 from 9am-1pm for leaders at Salem in our effort to unify Salem's ministries.  Our goal is to develop a well-functioning, integrated team of Salem ministry leaders.  For more information, contact any of the Executive Committee members: Larry Schlawin, Alice Freier, Ken Reinhardt, Jenny Ruff, or Pastor Kinnear.  Please respond by November 10 to the church office.

Make a Difference!

Make a difference with DKC Mobile Pack, hosted in Sycamore on November 14-15 and working through Feed My Starving Children.  FMSC meals reach starving children in nearly 70 countries around the globe.  Each meal packed costs just 22 cents and provides essential nutrients for a starving child.  Sign up this weekend before and after services.  Pray...donate...find out more! Go to www.makeadifferencedkc.com or contact Jim Sauber (815-761-5690, JimSauber@hotmail.com).

Grief Support Group Begins November 3

With the holidays coming, people who have lost a loved one need to have a safe place to grieve.  This could be a new grief, or it could be grief from a loss that happened a while ago.  This group is open to anyone whether a Salem church member or not.  Our goal is to help people get through the holidays and our discussions are confidential.  If you know someone who might benefit from this group, please invite them.  The Grief Group offers encouragement and support on the journey.

Come and join us every Sunday afternoon from 3:00 to 4:30 beginning November 3 through January 2014.  We will meet in the Chapel Lounge.  Your leaders will be Carole Lichty and Phyllis Castenson who have led grief groups before, and a new addition to the group, Judy Milroy.  If you have a question, you can reach Carole at 815-899-6116, Phyllis at 815-895-3650, or Judy at 815-756-4205.

All Saints' Candle-Lighting November 2-3

Saturday, November 2 - 5pm
Sunday, November 3 - 8/10:30am

Join us for worship All Saints' Weekend as we celebrate the lives of those who have died in Christ within the past year from our congregation and community, as well as those who remain close to our hearts from times past.  A candle will be carried in for each person honored as a bell is rung in their memory.  During the Hymn of the Day, the congregation will be invited to bring a lighted candle forward in memory of loved ones who have died.

Confirmation Pie Fundraiser

The annual Confirmation Pie Fundraiser is underway!  See any confirmation student to place an order.  Students will be in the Welcome Center on Saturday and Sunday before and after our worship times through the month of October.

Order now!  Delivery date is Saturday, November 23.  Questions: contact Paul Sheldon (815-558-2565) or Judy Waterfield (815-751-4062).

Coffee Hour October 20

Please join us for a Coffee Hour on Sunday, October 20 at 9:15am in Fellowship Hall as Ron and Pat Henning from Crystal Lake share the mission and ministry of the ELCA and Synod.  We will be having refreshments.

Love INC Fundraiser October 19

Love in the Name of Christ
Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser
October 19
5-7:30pm in Salem's Fellowship Hall

Pre-purchased tickets at $10 each are available in Salem's office.

Attend worship on Saturday and have a great dinner after!

Bring an Angel to Worship September 28-29

You're invited to bring a favorite representation of angels for display in celebration of St. Michael & All Angels, September 28-29.

Presentation of Bibles September 22

Third graders and 3-year-olds will receive Bibles geared toward their age level at the 10:30 worship service on Sunday, September 22.

In this gift we remember our promises when a child is baptized, as a congregation, to be involved along with parents in the teaching of our faith.  As we hand these Bibles to the parents, who in turn hand them to their child, we remember the parent's promise to place the Holy Scriptures into their child's hands.

Creative Arts Fall Schedule

Diggin' Up Praise...for Salem Creative Arts Fall 2013
Bless the Lord and Salem Church with your gift of praise!

Cherubs (singers 4 years old through 1st grade)
Wednesdays 4:30-5:15pm - Choir Room

Choristers (singers in 2nd-5th grades)
Wednesdays 6-6:45pm - Choir Room

Disciple Song (singers in 6th-12th grades)
Wednesdays 6-6:45pm - Chapel Lounge

Celebration Voices (adult or HS singers)
Wednesdays 7:15-8:30pm - Choir Room

Puppet Praise (Grade 5 and up youth and adult puppeteers)
Thursdays 6:15-7:15pm - Choir Room

Sounds of Grace Bells (Grade 6 and up youth and adult ringers)
Thursdays 7:30-8:30pm - Balcony

Salem Praise Team (adults and HS youth)
Saturdays 8:30-9:30am once a month - Sanctuary

"Evensong" Begins September 12

"Evensong"...Save the Dates

An invitation to take the Journey of your Life
Beginning Thursday, September 12, @ 6:46pm

Consider being a part of a fascinating 8-week series of gatherings.  Adults of all ages are welcome.  Participants will have the opportunity of sharing their life journey - viewed through the lenses of worship, sharing stories, and listening to one another.

There is no charge to be a part of this series and study materials will be provided.

For the initial gathering on September 12, participants are invited to bring a personal memento (object, picture, or writing) that holds special meaning for them.  This time of conversation will be a pleasant way to get to know one another.

Check the calendar today.  Gatherings will be on each Thursday beginning September 12 and concluding October 31.

This program is being offered by Salem's 2013 Diakonia graduates - Julie Grendahl, Betty Hampa, Judy Milroy, and Jenny Ruff.  Please contact the church office for further information.  Registration is limited to 15 and will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.  Please register early.

Salem Rally Day September 8

Put your hands together for Salem Rally Day and Spirit Sunday.  Help us celebrate 25 years of ELCA mission and ministry!

"God's Work: Our Hands"   Sunday, September 8

8am Worship - Blessing of new 6th grade confirmation students and backpacks and guides.

9:15 Celebration (Fellowship Hall):
* puppet skit
* songs
* Sunday School offering and collection of hand soaps
* craft
* register for Sunday School/confirmation/choirs/puppets
* snacks

10:30 Worship - Outdoor worship (West Yard) and blessing of Sunday School and creative arts leaders.  Bring a lawn chair if you'd like.

All services - blessing of hands to remind us that we are the hands and feet of Christ in this world and Holy Communion to give us the strength we need to serve!

Everyone welcome!

Sign up at the Welcome Center table to bring cookies to share for the snack.  Bring any kind of hand soap as a donation for Salem's Food Pantry.

Fair Trade Coffee Sale September 7-8

We will continue to sell coffee (at $7 each) and the chocolate bars (at $1.50 each), along with a few ButterBraids (get 'em while they last at $12 each).  After this September sale, we'll re-evaluate how we continue to "sell down" our final inventory.  Thanks to all for your support over the years - please know that many, many farmers and families have truly benefitted by your generous purchases to create a better way of life for themselves.

Wishing you God's peace,
The Global Missions Committee of Salem

Sound Techs Needed!

Would you be interested in a ministry that can be done from a comfortable chair?

Would you like to help members during the worship service and also our shut-ins?

Would you like to feel more involved during the worship service?

How about if you can do all that while sitting in the best chair in the church sanctuary?

Then consider joining Salem's Sound Team which is a fun and satisfying ministry.

A Sound Team member controls the microphones during the worship service.  The Team also records the 8:00 worship service on a CD and duplicates it for our shut-ins which are delivered to them by other volunteers.  Salem's Sound Team needs 3 more team members in order to cover all three weekend services.

If you can operate a CD player or a cell phone, you can operate Salem's sound system.  Scheduling is flexible and training is provided.  Please contact the church office or a Sound Team member (Larry Schlawin, Jeff Makosh, Dan Kuntz, Ken Reinhardt, Bill Gardner, John Welander) for further information.  Salem needs your help.

Sunday School Teachers Needed!

A new Sunday School year will be beginning soon.  Won't you consider being a Sunday School teacher?

You come to church each Sunday already, so why not help our youth learn more about their faith?  We understand you may be nervous about saying "yes," but there is no need to be; it's as easy as attending service.  Our goal is to have at least two teachers for each classroom.  Why not be a husband and wife team, or best friends team, or how about a father and daughter team, or mother and son team - or some other combination of a team!  If you are at least 18 years old we invite anyone who would like to know more about being a Sunday School teacher to contact April Olson (815-901-4801, blanesdino@aol.com) or Vicki Reed (815-508-6021, dvareed24@yahoo.com).

We have openings for 1st/2nd grade lead teacher, 5th grade helper, and 6/7/8 grade helpers and subs.

Blessing of Daily Labor August 31-September 1

Salem Labor Day Weekend Worship
"Blessing of Daily Labor"
5pm Saturday, August 31 and 8am/10:30am Sunday, September 1

Come to worship in your work clothes and bring a symbol of your occupation (tool, diaper, notepad, phone, plant, etc).

SCRIP Orders Due August 11

The High School Youth Group thanks everyone for your support through your orders of store gift cards.

The funds raised go into our Activity Fund and help us to attend events like National Youth Gathering!

The next SCRIP order is due August 11 with cards available for pick up August 18.

Please check the Welcome Table for updated order forms.

Summer Choir

You'll enjoy being a part of Salem's Summer Gospel Choir as we prepare fun Gospel favorites for five 10:30 services.  Singers will meet for a half-hour rehearsal in the Choir Room (9:45-10:15am) on the following dates (all ages and voices welcome!):

June 16 and 30
July 14 and 28
August 11

Come as often as you can!  Your voice will be a welcome gift to God and Salem congregation.

Scholarship Applications Due August 10

Salem students who will be attending a Lutheran-affiliated college this upcoming school year may submit an application for a scholarship to the Trust Fund by August 10, 2013.  This scholarship is administered by the Trust Fund, but is made available by an endowment fund established by the former WELCA organization.  Students should submit a letter of request to the Trust Fund that includes the name of the college they will be attending, the class level they will be at in the fall, and a brief statement as to how this scholarship will help them.

It is anticipated the Trust Fund will review requests and then distribute scholarships proportionately based on the monies that are available for distribution.  Students should expect announcement of scholarships prior to September 1, 2013.

Salem's Second Spirit Sunday June 30

Old North Grove School
Salem's Second Spirit Sunday
June 30, 1-4pm

Spirit Sunday June 30 offers opportunities to support and celebrate part of Salem's heritage, Old North Grove School.  You can be a part of Spirit Sunday by:

* Signing up to serve root beer floats for an hour.
* Signing up to donate baked goods.
* Coming to hear the School's story by a few Salem Puppets at 1:30pm.
* Taking a tour of the school between 1 and 4pm.

Love INC Fundraiser June 25

On Tuesday, June 25, from 5-8pm, you are invited to a fun-filled evening of good food and fellowship at Culver's, 1200 DeKalb Avenue, Sycamore.  Love INC will receive 10% of all sales during those hours.  We are blessed to have the support of our partner churches, along with all other community churches and organizations that believe in the mission and work of Love INC of DeKalb/Sycamore.  Please join us and be sure to watch for Love INC Board Members who will be helping Culver's with serving!

Interested in Membership at Salem?

A new member inquiry gathering (for conversation and questions) will be held Sunday, June 23, at 9:15am in Chapel Lounge.  Coffee, juice, and muffins will be provided.  Please come and meet some people from our congregation and any others who may be interested in joining.

Photo Help Needed June 23

Salem's Archive Committee has old Salem photos and we need your help!

We would like to identify as many congregation members as we can in the various photos and we are hoping you will be able to lend us an hour of your time to help out.

On Sunday, June 23, we are asking you to join us in Fellowship Hall from 9:15 to 10:15 to help us put names with faces on photos we want to keep in the archives as a part of Salem's history.  There will be old photos and newer photos so we could use assistance from all age groups.  And who knows, maybe it will also be an opportunity to learn a bit of Salem's history and re-live some of those special moments we have all enjoyed at Salem events throughout the years.

Campfirmation Project Donations Needed by June 17

At Confirmation camp this summer, 8th graders will once again make blankets for the place 2b, a drop-in shelter for homeless, displaced, and near-homeless youth in the Quad Cities area.  The place 2b offers a variety of support services to these youth, ranging from housing options to counseling services to academic support.  Find out more about the place 2b at www.theplace2b.org.

Your donations are needed!  Please help with your donation of 2 yards of heavyweight fleece from a bolt that is at least 40" wide.  We also need a few pairs of good, strong scissors.

Please bring your donations to the church no later than Monday, June 17.

Car Wash Fundraiser June 15

Boy Scout Troop 2810, chartered by Salem Lutheran Church, will be having a Car Wash Fundraiser on Saturday, June 15, from 10am to 2pm.

Just drive your car into the Salem Lutheran Church back parking lot and let the boys of Troop 2810 wash your car!  Donations will be accepted.  Proceeds will go towards purchasing equipment, awards, and operating expenses for the ever-growing troop.  For more information, please contact Mary Shipman, Fundraising Chair, at 815-761-3875.  Be sure to visit the troop's new website at www.Troop2810.org.

High School Senior Recognition June 2

High School Senior Reception
Sunday, June 2
9:30am in Fellowship Hall

10:30am - Recognition in worship

We look forward to celebrating with you this milestone in your child's life and sharing God's blessing for the next stage of their journey.  All are welcome to attend the reception in their honor.

Military Servants Honored May 25-26

Military servants honored at all services.  There will be a 9:15 coffee in honor of past and present military servants.  Please sign up in the Welcome Center if you can attend the coffee and list the branch of the military in which you served or are serving.  Thank you!  All welcome!

Also addresses for those on our active military prayer list would be appreciated so that we can send a note of encouragement.

Spirit Sunday May 19

Join in the fun for Salem's first Spirit Sunday on May 19, 2013!

9:15am  Last Sunday School w/ games
10:30am  "Mini" GRACE worship
11:10am  "Colors of Grace" (Planting Party on Salem grounds)
12pm  Free hot dog/brat lunch

Everyone welcome - dress informally!  If you are able to plan ahead, thanks for signing up at the Welcome Center or sending an RSVP to Sue@salemlutheransycamore.org.  If not, please come anyway if you can!

In the spirit of Pentecost, Salem is accepting donations of bedding plants dropped off at your convenience the week of May 12, before our Planting Party.  Thanks!

First Communion Class May 5

Salem is offering a class for children in third grade or older and their parents to learn and prepare for sharing in the Lord's Supper.  The class will take place on May 5 from 2-5pm.  First Communion Sunday is May 12 at the 10:30 worship service.  We do ask that children be baptized before participating in Communion.  Please contact Pastor Rob for more information about Baptism or Communion for your child.

Love INC Fundraiser Banquet May 4

Love INC's 4th Annual Fundraiser Banquet
Saturday, May 4
6-8:30pm
St. Mary Memorial Hall, Sycamore

The banquet will be catered by Nat's on Maple.  There will be a program by Salem's Puppet Praise Team and a short ministry report about Love INC.

The banquet is free, but a donation made to Love INC is requested.

Reservations are required.  Salem would like to fill three tables of eight like we did last year.

Please see Sue McMillan in Salem's office (815-895-9171) if you would like to attend.

G.E.M.S. Noon Cookout May 20

G.E.M.S. = Growing Every Member Spiritually
(for those who are 50 years of age or better)
Spouses always welcome!

Monday, May 20, 2013

* Noon cookout in Salem's Fellowship Hall.  Steve Safford will grill pork chops.
* Please bring a dish to share and non-perishable items for Salem's Food Pantry.
* Call Carol Saidat for reservations: 815-899-8383.  Reservations must be made no later than Thursday, May 16!
* This will be the last G.E.M.S. gathering...until we meet up again in September.

Michell Schulz from Kar-Fre Flowers will be presenting the program.  We hope to see you!

Spring Musical April 20-21

Salem Spring 2013 Children's Musical:
The Amazing Grace Race - In His Steps...In My Shoes!

Presented Sat-Sun, April 20-21 (5pm and 10:30am worship services)

DeKalb County Rehab Presentation
Wednesday, April 24, 6:30pm

The Amazing Grace Race is all about the "race of life" - all believers are participants!  Life is full of mountains and valleys, sharp turns and detours.  The key to running the race successfully?  Strive to follow Jesus' example each and every day.  This musical based on Hebrews 11 and 12 will be brought to life by Salem Creative Arts Ministry.  Mark your calendars and join the journey!  Sponsors for this musical also welcomed.

NIS Women Retreat at LOMC April 20

Northern Illinois Synod Women of the ELCA Retreat
"Two Scoops of Grace with Chuckles on Top"
Bible study led by author Jeanette Levellie
Saturday, April 20, 2013

LOMC
1834 S IL Rt 2
Oregon, IL
Registration deadline: April 4
$35 includes morning coffee, lunch, snacks, and materials (please bring a Bible)

Make checks payable to NISWO and mail to Ruth Anne Hartman, 6522 95th Avenue Ct. W, Taylor Ridge, IL 61284 (309-787-3351).  When you register, please include: name, address, phone number, conference (Salem is in the NE Conference), church name/address, any special needs (diet, physical, etc), and email.  Upon receiving registration a confirmation letter including a map will be sent to you.

G.E.M.S. Noon Luncheon April 17

G.E.M.S. = Growing Every Member Spiritually
For those who are 50 years of age or better
Spouses always welcome!

Wednesday, April 17, 2013
- At Nat's on Maple (restaurant on Maple St. in Sycamore) for noon lunch.
- After lunch, we will all go to the Natural History Museum in Sycamore (across from the State Theater).  There is an elevator at the museum, if you don't do stairs.
- There will be NO admission fee for the museum on Wednesday.
- You WILL pay for your own lunch choices at Nat's.
- Call Carol Saidat for reservations (815-899-8383).  Reservations must be made no later than Friday, April 12.

We hope to see you for a fun afternoon!

Easter Breakfast March 31

We will have an Easter breakfast from 9-10am on Easter Sunday in Fellowship Hall.  The breakfast will be catered by Tom and Jerry's and will consist of three types of egg casseroles: bacon and cheese, sausage and cheese, and vegetarian.  There will also be fruit, muffins, and bagels.  Beverages will consist of juice, coffee, and milk.  The cost will be $5, with one of those dollars a donation to Love INC.  We will need volunteers to help with set up and clean up and to help sell tickets.  There will be a sign-up sheet in the Welcome Center.  If you have any questions please contact Sue in the office.

Holy Week Schedule

Palm Sunday Worship: Sat, March 23 (5pm) & Sun, March 24 (8 & 10:30am)

Maundy Thursday: March 28 (7pm)

Good Friday: March 29 (7pm)

Easter Vigil: Saturday, March 30 (5pm)

Easter Festival Worship: Sunday, March 31 (8 & 10:30am)

Youth Weekend at LOMC March 22-24

High School Youth & 8th Graders Weekend at Lutheran Outdoor Ministries Center

- with Rachel Kurtz: singer, songwriter, guitarist, speaker, featured performer at the 2012 National Youth Gathering

March 22-24 with concerts on Friday and Saturday nights, worship on Sunday morning

Early bird cost: $69 before March 1
After March 1: $95

Salem's HS Youth Activity Fund is covering $30 of each participant! Scholarship funds available from Salem Youth Group.  Contact Julie Grendahl for information (julie.g@comcast.net) or pick up a permission form at the Welcome Table.

Easter Garden Orders Due March 18

Altar Guild is taking orders for potted seasonal flowers to place around the altar and on the Easter Cross for Easter Sunday.  Orders will be taken in the narthex before and after church services on March 9-10 and March 16-17.  To order a plant, please fill out an order form and give it to the Altar Guild member in the narthex on those dates, along with your payment.  Make checks payable to Glidden Florist.  You can also drop off or mail your order and payment to the church office any time before Monday, March 18.

If you would like to pick up the plant you ordered after Easter service, be sure to fill out a card with your name and telephone number, or you can donate your plant to a Salem shut-in.

G.E.M.S. Noon Potluck March 18

G.E.M.S. = Growing Every Member Spiritually (for those who are 50 years of age or better)
Spouses always welcome!

Monday, March 18, 2013
Noon potluck in Salem's Fellowship Hall

Please bring a salad - any kind that serves 6-8 (meat, veggie, fruit, pasta)
Everything else is provided by the G.E.M.S. Committee

Don't forget items for Salem's Food Pantry (non-perishables)

Please make reservations now (call Carol Saidat, 815-899-8383).  Let her know what you will be bringing and how many will be attending.

Program: "From Auld (Old) Sod to New Prairie: The Irish in America (Emerald Isle Immigrants)
Presented by Lee Murdoch

Come enjoy an afternoon of Irish pub songs, classic ballads, with a soft instrumental air and vigorous dance tunes from the Emerald Isle.  We look forward to our fellowship together and know you will enjoy the afternoon of lively music and stories.  We'll be looking for you!

Girl Scout Sunday at Salem March 10

March 10 is Girl Scout Sunday.  At our 10:30am service we will recognize and bless the Girl Scouts.  Salem's Girl Scouts will be participating in the service and hosting the 9:15 coffee hour on that day.  Danielle DuBois is the contact person at 815-501-7370.

Congregational Resourcing Event March 9

Northern Illinois Synod
2013 Congregational Resourcing Event
Saturday, March 9
8:30am - 3:15pm
Kishwaukee College
21193 Malta Road, Malta

The keynote speaker will be Rev. Dr. Rafael Malpica-Padilla, the Executive Director of the Global Mission Program Unit of the ELCA.

Registration deadline is February 25.  Contact Salem's office to register if you are interested in attending (815-895-9171).  The fee of $17 per person includes lunch and will be covered by Salem.  Childcare will be available with pre-registration.  Over 39 sessions to choose from, including:

"Social Media Ministry for Congregations"
"Bullying of Youth"
"Care for Returning Veterans"
"The Via De Cristo Method of Building Church Leadership"
"One Body, Many Members: A Journey Across Race, Culture and Class"
"Godly Living in the Golden Years"

Many other sessions from the following interest areas:

* Administration/Council/Treasurers
* Education
* Evangelism/Outreach/Hospitality
* Global/Specialized Mission Trips
* Leadership
* Social Justice
* Spirituality/Prayer/Health & Wellness
* Stewardship
* Technology
* Volunteers
* Worship
* Youth/Family/Children

World Day of Prayer Service March 1

Salem will host Sycamore's World Day of Prayer service Friday morning, March 1, at 9:30am for all people of faith in the surrounding community.  Prepared by the World Day of Prayer Committee of France and the the World Day of Prayer USA Committee, this year's service is entitled "I Was a Stranger and You Welcomed Me."

World Day of Prayer is a worldwide ecumenical movement of women from many faith traditions who come together to observe a common day of prayer each year on the first Friday of March.  Each year a different country serves as the writer of the worship service and various churches in their communities host.  Though written by women with a female lens to justice and social issues, both men and women are welcome at the service.  A free-will offering will be received to benefit the mission of Church Women United, and a coffee fellowship will follow the service.  Salem sponsors include Alice Freier, Heather Jackson, and Jenny Ruff.

As the host church, Salem needs help in the following areas: worship participants (including readers, greeters, and ushers) and a fellowship team (including food donations, servers, and clean up).  If you are interested in helping in any way, please contact Jenny Ruff (815-793-2055) or Sue in the church office (815-895-9171).  There is a sign-up sheet in the Welcome Center if you can help or bring food donations.

Salem G.E.M.S. Noon Potluck February 18

Salem G.E.M.S. - Growing Every Member Spiritually
(for those who are 50 years of age or better)
Spouses always welcome!

Monday, February 18, 2013
Noon potluck in Salem's Fellowship Hall

* G.E.M.S. is now for age 50 "or better"
* bring a casserole or salad (6-8 serving size)
* everything else is provided by the G.E.M.S. Committee
* don't forget items for Salem's Food Pantry
* "last call" for recipes for our G.E.M.S. Cookbook - share your delicious potluck dish recipes!
* please make reservations in a "timely" manner (call Carol Saidat at 815-899-8383).  Let her know what you will be bringing and how many will be attending.

Program: Mary Lou Reeves will present "A Christmas Story in February."  We look forward to a fun afternoon.  See you there!

Shrove Tuesday Dinner/Cake Auction February 12

Look what's just around the corner.  Please put it on your calendar and plan to attend.

Shrove Tuesday Dinner & Cake Auction
Hosted by Salem confirmation guides and students
Tuesday, February 12

Dinner - 6pm ($7 per person suggested donation)
Cake voting period ends - 6:45pm
Cake auction begins - 7pm
Serving: pulled pork sandwiches, chips, veggies, and drink

Plan your cake now!
Cake theme categories:
* Living Christ's Love
* Salem's Favorites
* TV & Tech
* Sports/Games
* Food for Thought
* God's Creatures
* 10 & Under (all entries in this category will win a prize!)

Plus, you can bid to "pie" someone.  The options could be Pastor Rob, a guide...or someone else!

Funds raised will be split between the Peter Eide concert in December 2013 and Safe Passage.

Lenten Soup Supper Sponsors Needed

Would you like to raise funds for one of Salem's ministries?  Sponsor a Soup Supper this Lenten season!

Salem Lenten Soup Suppers are scheduled for Wednesdays during Lent.  Ask a few people to join you, your family, or your group in sponsoring a soup supper.

As a host for a supper, you will provide 8-10 gallons of soup (varied kinds), beverages, and willing hands to clean up and serve (from 5:30 - 6:45pm) prior to the 7pm worship service.  A free-will offering is received and can be designated to the Salem fund of your choice.  The people dining bring breads, crackers, or desserts to share.  Lent will soon be upon us!  Sign up in the Welcome Center to host a night.

Boy Scout Sunday at Salem February 3

A scout is reverent!  The Boy Scouts of America designates February 3, 2013 as Scout Sunday, which is the primary date to recognize the contributions of young people and adults to Scouting.  BSA Troop 2810 will participate in Scout Sunday on February 3 at the 10:30am service celebrating this special day at Salem Lutheran Church.

Troop 2810, chartered and hosted by Salem Lutheran Church, begins its third year as a troop.  Troop 2810 offers a huge variety of outdoor skills.  While they are a young troop, here is over 28 years of leadership and experience combined.

The mission of Boy Scouts of America is to prepare young people to make ethical and moral choices over their lifetime by instilling the values of the Scout Oath and Law.  Boys ages 11-17 eager to have fun and adventure, looking for leadership opportunities, want to enjoy new friendships and more are encouraged to join Troop 2810.  Boy Scouting is a program designed to develop self-confidence, leadership, teamwork, respect, and outdoor skills with fun activities including camping, hiking, High Adventure opportunities, community service, summer camp, and many other events.

Troop 2810 meets Monday evenings from 6:30-8pm at Salem.  For more information about BSA Troop 2810, please contact committee chair Connie Handel or Scoutmaster Terry Handel at 815-895-6953 or via email at trailtoeagle@comcast.net.

Meals on Wheels Volunteers Needed

February is Salem's month to furnish volunteers to deliver "Meals on Wheels" to Sycamore shut-ins for the Voluntary Action Center.  Salem furnishes two volunteers a day for each of three Sycamore routes (West, Central, and East) each weekday in February.  It usually only takes from 11am-12:30pm.  Your help is appreciated.  Please call Salem's office (815-895-9171) to volunteer.

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