Annual Meeting of the Congregation January 22

Annual Meeting of the Congregation

Sunday, January 22

12pm luncheon

12:45pm meeting in Fellowship Hall

We will be voting on Council, Trust Fund, Synod Assembly, Nominating Committee, and Call Committee nominees as well as the 2012 budget.

Be sure to attend!

LOMC Epiphany Retreat January 13-14

When they saw that the star had stopped,

they were overwhelmed with joy

-Matthew 2:10

Third through sixth graders: invite your friends and plan to come to LOMC for the "Follow the Star" Epiphany Retreat January 13-14 at Lutheran Outdoor Ministries Center in Oregon, IL. Learn about the season of Epiphany, warm yourself by the Christmas tree bonfire, and have fun team-building, star-gazing, and drinking hot cocoa! Stay in heated youth retreat villages and enjoy great meals and snacks. $65 per person. Registration forms and permission slips will be handed out in Sunday School. To find out more or register, contact Karin Graddy at karin@salemsycamore.org or 815-762-0758.

Epiphany Celebration at Heatherhope Farm

Salem members Pastor John Seraphine and his wife, Connie, invite other members of Salem to their Heatherhope Farm for their annual Epiphany celebration on Sunday, January 8, 2012, from 4:30-7:30pm.

The evening will be begin with a dinner in the house, proceed to a bonfire in the hay field, and conclude with a simple Celtic Epiphany service in the barn. One of the Seraphines' sheepdogs will gather the sheep into the barn to say goodnight as we sing our "Amens." The farm also has five young puppies that will crave attention from the children. All who plan to attend are asked to send an email to heatherhopefarm@gmail.com or phone 815-895-9736 to note how many are coming. Please bring your dried Christmas trees and/or greens, and say if you might be able to bring a salad or dessert to share. Epiphany at Heatherhope has become a winter tradition for many families for eight years. We hope you will join us for this special night, and be sure to invite your friends.

Epiphany Breakfast Celebration January 8

Come to Fellowship Hall at 9:15am on January 8 to see the Salem Puppet Praise Team's presentation of "Silent Mice, Holy Mice," the humorous story of how the beloved Christmas carol "Silent Night" came to be. Enjoy a breakfast of fruit, muffins, donuts, juice, and coffee. A sign-up sheet is in the Welcome Center to let us know how many are coming and also to sign up for something to share.

We will also be collecting new children's clothing for Hope Haven on that day!

New Year's Resolution to Lose Weight?!

Come join Salem's weight-loss support group, Fearfully and Wonderfully Made. Everyone is invited to the Fellowship Hall on Thursday evenings at 7pm for 20-30 minutes of light (simple) aerobic exercise followed by weight-loss tips, information, support, and prayer. We even support each other throughout the week on our Facebook group. It's always easier to stick to something new with support and accountability to a group. Let's all help each other stay accountable and achieve our goals! Questions? Contact Karin Graddy at 815-762-0758 or karin@salemsycamore.org.

Fleece Donations Needed

Salem's confirmation students need your help with a service project to keep some local friends warm. In November and December the students will make scarves as an Advent Service project to be given as gifts to Avancer House residents.

Then in January, we'll be joined by residents of the Opportunity House to work, side by side, to make scarves. Our guests will get take their project home! Our students will get to share the care and warmth in their hearts!

Please help us to spread the warmth and God's love by donating fleece for these projects. One yard will make several scarves. Please consider donating 1-2 yards. Solid-colored fabric or fabric with small designs work best. Coordinating colors would be perfect for the scarves!

The first of these projects began on Wednesday, November 30. Fleece is needed by that date to start us off, but can be dropped off throughout the month of December. There is a box for collection in the Welcome Center. You can direct questions to Judy Waterfield (815-751-4062).

Schedule of Holiday Services

Christmas Eve Worship Services

Saturday, December 24

4pm/7pm/11pm

Christmas Day Worship Service

Sunday, December 25

10:30am

New Year's Eve Worship Service

Saturday, December 31

5pm

New Year's Day Worship Service

Sunday, January 1

10:30am

Christmas Cookie Sale December 18

Christmas Cookie Sale

December 18, Fellowship Hall, 9am-noon

Come before or after the children's Christmas program!

The cost is $5 per pound. Tremendous variety!

If you would like to help out with the baking, feel free to donate 2-4 dozen cookies for the sale. A sign-up sheet will be in the Welcome Center.

Help send five youth and two adults to the National Youth Gathering in New Orleans in 2012!

Salem to Host Northeast Conference Meeting Dec. 13

On Tuesday, December 13, Salem staff will host the Northeast Conference of rostered people. Our guests will arrive around 9:30am and be here, in worship and conversation, until noon. Would some folks like to bring some munchies to serve? Cheese, fruit, muffins, and juice are examples. We will also serve coffee. Please sign up in the Welcome Center so we will know what we'll have to serve.

Poinsettia Orders for Christmas 2011

It's time to order Christmas poinsettias to decorate Salem's sanctuary during the holiday season.

Altar Guild members will be taking orders in the narthex following each worship service on December 3-4 and December 10-11. The poinsettias are $19 each and checks should be made payable to Glidden Florist.

If you want to place an order but cannot make it to church, please contact Jeanne Johnston at 815-761-6823. Please do not place orders through the church office. Orders are due to Glidden Florist by Monday, December 12.

Be a Salem Angel Gift-Giver!

The "Angel Good Deed Tree" has been a tradition at Salem for several decades. The recipients will be the special residents of Avancer in Genoa -- and they are truly grateful for the help we can provide the individuals with disabilities in its care. Look for The Angel Tree in the narthex and be sure to take a resident's name and list of items they need from the tree. Their wrapped present (with the house name and person's name affixed to the outside) can be brought back to Salem by December 11 to be delivered in time for Christmas.

Christmas Cantata Presentation December 10-11

Tapestry of Light

A Celtic Christmas Celebration by Joseph M. Martin

Saturday, December 10 - 5pm

Sunday, December 11 - 10:30am

Tapestry of Light Christmas Cantata joins traditional carols from the British Isles with scripture reading and candle lighting. Presented by Salem adult voices with a cameo of children, the cantata is accompanied by flute, violin, cello, percussion, and piano.

Tapestry of Light is a singing memorial gifted to the Glory of God by the 2011 Easter Breakfast Crew and Linda Rogers.

Where Have You Seen God Working at Salem?

How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of the messenger who announces peace, who brings good news, who announces salvation, who says to Zion, "Your God reigns."

Isaiah 52:7

Follow in the footsteps of others of faith and communicate where God has been seen working in our midst. Follow the footsteps on the floor to our three "mountains" (in the Red Sofa Lounge, in the Library downstairs, and the Desk at the bottom of the staircase) and use one of the post-it notes to tell where you have seen God at work here at Salem. You can also post to Salem's webpage at http://salemsycamore.org.

You can give your name or remain anonymous. Share your "good news" with others. The "mountains" will be here through the end of December. What footprints have been left by God on the life of Salem and the lives of her members?

Ever See An Angel?

Ever felt the presence of an Angel? What does the Bible say about Angels? Maybe we could treat ourselves by sitting down together to learn more about Angels, agents of God's grace, as they are sometimes described. If you are interested, please call Judy Bergeson (815-895-9171) or leave a message in the office. We would gather for four Tuesday mornings during Advent on December 6, 13, 20, and 27 at 9am in the Chapel Lounge.

Fair Trade Fair

Fair Trade Fair

November 19-20, 26-27, 30

December 3-4

Look for us in the Red Sofa Lounge Area near the Global Mission Display Case before and after each worship service. There are many one-of-a-kind items from all over the globe. The items make wonderful gifts and also return a livable wage to those who created them. Remember the coffee, hot cocoa, tea, and chocolate are always excellent gift choices as well!

Advent Retreat at LOMC December 2-3

Do the twist!

Third through sixth graders are invited to a Peppermint Twist Advent Retreat at Lutheran Outdoor Ministries Center in Oregon, IL, December 2-3.

LOMC Advent retreats are held each year for 3rd-6th graders near the beginning of the Advent season. Participants stay in heated cabins with bunkbeds. There will be Bible study, hiking, group activities, and lots of winter fun. Registration cost of $65 includes overnight accommodations and all meals. Chaperones will be needed! Registration forms will be handed out in Sunday School. Find out more at www.lomc.org/events/advent-retreat or contact Karin Graddy at karin@salemsycamore.org or 815-762-0758.

Midweek Advent Journey Begins November 30

Ever since its first publication in 1843, Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol has been a holiday classic. The legendary story of the transformation of Ebenezer Scrooge, from "Bah, humbug!" to "God bless us, everyone!", is as much a part of Christmas as mistletoe and Santa Claus. Dickens originally wrote A Christmas Carol to revive the joyful traditions of Christmas and the celebration of the yuletide, since Cromwell's Puritan revolution in England had prohibited any rites or practices deemed "pagan." A Christmas Carol nearly singlehandedly rejuvenated those traditions in Victorian England.

Yet the story of the redemption of Ebenezer Scrooge is also a meaningful story for people of faith. And a wonderful story to study as part of the Advent Journey to the manger outside Bethlehem.

Some of the themes found within the story that make it an interesting study for Advent and Christmas include hope, redemption, transformation, the work for the Spirit, and the Christian life. You are invited to join the midweek Advent journey to Bethlehem. Our study begins at 7pm Wednesday, November 30, during the celebration of evening prayer in the sanctuary.

Advent Wreath Lighting

Families and individuals who would enjoy lighting Salem's Advent wreath and leading the Advent prayer are invited to sign up for a service at the Welcome Center table.

The prayer to read and instructions will be sent the week ahead. A minimum of two people are needed for each service. The four weekends of Advent are November 26-27, December 3-4, 10-11, and 17-18. Thank you for your participation!

Thanksgiving Eve Worship Wednesday, November 23

Salem Thanksgiving Eve Worship

7pm - Wednesday, November 23

Come, you thankful people, come!

Non-perishable foods and paper goods will be collected to share with the needy in our area. Come for an hour of festive praise and Holy Communion; enjoy a piece of pie after worship!

8pm - Pie and coffee in Fellowship Hall

Sign up at the Welcome Center Table to bring a pie to share or help host this fellowship event following Thanksgiving Eve worship. Thank you!

"Feed My Starving Children" Volunteers Needed

Founded in 1987, Feed My Starving Children is a non-profit, Christian organization that is committed to feeding God's starving children hungry in body and spirit. Working with food scientists, FMSC developed MannaPack Rice which contains over 20 vitamins and minerals. Providing protein from extruded soy nuggets, these meals are inexpensive, easy to transport, contain no water or filler, and are prepared simply by boiling water. They provide everything a child needs to thrive, not just survive.

From November 17-20, Feed My Starving Children Make a Difference 2K11 will be packing 500,000 meals with the financial and physical help of local residents and organizations like Salem. Won't you help us purchase the ingredients and pack them for shipment around the world to the neediest of our neighbors? For just $0.24 per meal we can save and repurpose a human life!

Watch for the sign-up sheet in the narthex for the following dates:

Friday, November 18, 6:15-8:30pm

Sunday, November 20, 11:45am-2pm

The Suter Company

Bethany Road

We need three things from you to make this a reality:

*Consider a financial gift to the local effort for Feed My Starving Children

* Pray that hearts and minds will be opened to this opportunity

* Sign up to assist in packing

The local goal for 2011 is 700,000 meals! To pay for the meals, $168,000 is needed. To pack the meals, more than 3000 volunteers are needed.

Salem G.E.M.S. Noon Potluck November 14

Salem G.E.M.S. will meet one week early because of the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday. Mark your calendars and make your reservations by calling Carol Saidat (815-899-8383). We ask that you provide a casserole for the noon potluck. The committee will provide beverages, salads, and desserts.

We ask that everyone bring a Thanksgiving memory to share. We are very thankful for this time of Christian fellowship that we share each month. Spouses are always welcome. Please bring items for Salem's food pantry.

Pastor Sululu Visits Sunday, November 13

Join us Sunday, November 13 for guest Pastor Seth Sululu from the country of Tanzania! Pastor Seth will be presiding over both Sunday services, as well as joining us for coffee hour that Sunday. We hope you can be here to help welcome him! We'll have special music and more for the day (Curious? C'mon and join us!). Pastor Seth is here completing his Master's degree in music at N.I.U. and joined us one day last year. Mark your calendar! Join us to hear God's word from his perspective.

Grief Support Group Meeting November 6

Beginning on Sunday, November 6 we will begin a new 11-week series, meeting every Sunday afternoon from 3-4:30pm. Our goal is to help people get through the holidays. We meet in Chapel Lounge and our discussions are confidential. Our hope and prayer is that grieving people find comfort from being in the company of others who are also on a grief journey and who understand. No registration, no cost. Just come. All are welcome!

All Saints' Candle-Lighting November 5-6

Saturday, November 5 - 5pm

Sunday, November 6 - 8 & 10:30am

Join us for worship next weekend as we celebrate the lives of those who have died in Christ within the past year from our congregation and community and those who remain close to our hearts from times past.

Salem's 2011 Confirmation Pie Fundraiser

Confirmation students are once again selling pies as their fall fundraiser. Place an order with any of our students today. Students will be available to take your order in the Welcome Center before and after worship services. Pies need to be paid for at the time of order. Checks should be made payable to Salem Lutheran Church. Orders can be placed from September 14 through Sunday, October 30. Pies will be delivered to you on Saturday, November 19. If you have any questions, please contact pie coordinator Paul Sheldon (815-558-2565) or confirmation manager Judy Waterfield (815-751-4062).

Salem Lutherfest Celebration Saturday, October 29

Festival Worship - 5pm

BBB Meal (Barbecue, Buns & Beverages) - 6:30pm

Those attending please bring a salad, dessert, or chips.

Reformation Pictionary - 7:30pm

Sign up in the Welcome Center.

Or join us:

Sunday, October 30 Reformation Worship at 8am

(No 10:30 service due to Pumpkinfest)

Archive Picture Party October 23

Join the Archive Committee during the Hospitality Hour Sunday, October 23 at 9:15am in Fellowship Hall to have refreshments and help to identify old Salem photos at a Salem Photo ID party.

New Members Received October 22-23

New members are being received on Saturday, October 22, and Sunday, October 23. Be sure to attend the Saturday 5pm service or the Sunday 10:30am service and warmly welcome them to Salem!

Salem G.E.M.S. Traveling to Royal Oaks Apple Orchard October 17

On Monday, October 17, Salem G.E.M.S. will travel to Royal Oaks Apple Orchard (near Harvard).

Bus travel will be $10 per person. We will meet at Salem's lower level beginning at 8:30am. The bus will depart from Salem at 9am.

Features at the Orchard: fall produce and fresh apples, a riding tour of the orchards, restaurant and gift shop.

We will return to Salem around 3pm.

Please make your reservations now through Monday, October 10 by calling Carol Lichty at 815-899-6116.

Hope you can join us for a day in the country!

Celebrate Generosity

Salem's stewardship theme for this coming year is "Celebrate Generosity" starting on September 25 culminating with Salem's Commitment Weekend of October 15-16. We will have a four-week program during this time to help members discover the joys of giving through growth in giving. The messages on these four Sundays will be: Giving Is an Act of Worship, Giving Is Systematic, Giving Is in Proportion to Income, and Plan Your Giving in Advance. During the worship services on Commitment Weekend of October 15 & 16, Salem's members will be encouraged to offer to God and His church their "Estimates of Giving" for 2012. Salem's members are invited to join in daily prayer asking that God lead in members' decisions during the coming weeks.

Salem Day at Panda Express October 10

Monday, October 10 is our next Salem Day at Panda Express. If you have their flyer, which will be in the bulletin the week before and day before October 10, they will give 20% of your bill to Salem for the Food Pantry. Yay!

Salem Work Day October 8

The Property Committee announces that Saturday, October 8, from 9am until noon will be a Salem Work Day.

Everyone is invited. Please come in jeans and bring rags. We have windows to wash, pews to clean, downspouts to clear, etc.

See you there! Your help is always appreciated!

Grace Place Meal Delivery October 5

Salem has been asked to prepare a meal Wednesday, October 5 for Grace Place (formerly Lutheran Campus Ministry Center). The sign-up book is in the Welcome Center. You can sign up for either an entree, rolls, side/salad, or a dessert. All items should be at Salem by 6:30pm for 7pm delivery to Grace Place.

New Members Class October 2

Interested in membership at Salem? A new member dinner (with ample time for conversation and questions) will be held on Sunday, October 2 from 5pm-7pm. Dinner and child care will be provided. If you plan to attend, please call the church office at 815-895-9171.

Third Grade Bible Workshop September 25

There will be a Bible workshop for third graders (and their parents and siblings) on Sunday, September 25 at 11:30am in the Fellowship Hall. First we will have pizza, then games and activities to introduce you to your new Bible! Contact the church office to sign up (815-895-9171).

Bible Presentation September 25

Three-year-olds and third-grade students will be presented Bibles at the 10:30am worship service Sunday, September 25. Please join us as the family of Salem shares the gift of God's Word.

Church Directory Photograph Sign-Up

Please sign up to have your family photographed for our new directory! There will be someone in the Red Sofa Lounge after each service to help you, or you may sign up on Salem's website by clicking on "Portrait Session." You do get a free 8x10 plus you can think about Christmas cards. Don't miss this opportunity. The actual days are September 22-24 and 26-28.

Women's Bible Study September 22

Beginning in September, the Thursday Women's Bible Study group will use Godly Living in the Golden Years, a new book by Dr. John Prabakhar based on the Psalms. His first book was excellent, so we look forward to learning from this one! We meet in the Chapel Lounge the fourth Thursday of each month at 9:15-10:30 a.m. All Salem women are welcome. Call Judy Bergeson (815-895-9171) for further information or ideas.

National Youth Gathering Meeting September 18

The National Youth Gathering happens every three years and is for high school youth. In July of 2012, over 30,000 youth and leaders will be gathering in New Orleans!

The estimated cost is $1250, depending on transportation costs, food, etc. The cost is split three ways: one-third comes from Salem, one-third comes from fundraising, and one-third comes from the student's family. Scholarships may be available. Commitment date is October 1 and the non-refundable registration fee is $150.

There will be an informational meeting on Sunday, September 18 at 7pm in Fellowship Hall.

For questions or more information, please contact Julie Grendahl (815-761-3714, julie.g@comcast.net) or Kirsten Yargus (815-508-6749, kyargus@gmail.com).

Affirmation of Baptism September 18

On Sunday, September 18, at the 10:30am worship, we will have eight Salem students confirmed in their faith at our Affirmation of Baptism service.

Please join us for this special day in their lives. One of Salem's own, Pastor Chris Beamsley, will give the message that day. Most of our students got to know Chris at confirmation camp this summer. With the departure of Pastor Janet, Chris graciously offered to come and help our students have a feeling of familiarity on this special day. As is our tradition, during the 9am Fellowship Hour, confirmation guides will host the coffee hour in celebration of our confirmation students. Please plan to join us on this day of celebration in their lives of faith.

Salem Creative Arts Fall 2011 Weekly Schedule

All aboard...for Prayer n' Praise!

Salem Creative Arts Fall 2011

Please register for Prayer n' Praise at Salem's lower level display

Your gifts of music will be a joy to the Lord and our Church!

All choirs begin Wednesday, September 14

Puppets and bells begin Thursday, September 15

New to Puppets? "Intro to Puppets" September 15, 5:30 p.m.

New to Bells? "Intro to Handbells" September 15, 7 p.m.

Cherubs (singers 4 years old through 1st grade)

Wednesdays 4:30-5:15 p.m. - choir room

Choristers (singers in 2nd-5th grades)

Wednesdays 6-6:45 p.m. - choir room

Disciple Song (singers in 6th-12th grades)

Wednesdays 6-6:45 p.m. - chapel lounge

Celebration Voices (adult or HS singers)

Wednesdays 7:15-8:30 p.m. - choir room

Puppet Praise (Grade 5 & up youth and adult puppeteers)

Thursdays 6:15-7:15 p.m. - choir room

Sounds of Grace Bells (Grade 6 & up youth and adult ringers)

Thursdays 7:30-8:30 p.m. - balcony

Salem Praise Team (Adults and HS youth)

Saturdays 8:30-9:30 a.m. once a month - sanctuary

"Fearfully and Wonderfully Made" Begins September 14

Everyone needs support...especially when one is trying to lose weight! "Fearfully and Wonderfully Made" is a new support group for those trying to lose weight - one way or another. It will be a very casual, friendly group.

There will be no criticism, no requirements, no counting calories (unless you want to!), and no required attendance. There will be a short Bible study, time for prayer, time for sharing frustrations as well as great ideas, and lots of support! The group's first meeting will be Wednesday, September 14 at 7pm in the Chapel Lounge. Everyone is invited (invite your friends; attendees need not be Salem members). Weigh-ins will be completely optional and totally secret (but first we need someone to donate a scale that we can keep at church!).

If you have any questions, please contact Karin Graddy at karin@graddy.org or 815-762-0758. If you're interested in the group, but can't make Wednesdays, please let Karin know, as we will discuss the best night for everyone to meet at our first meeting.

Salem Day at Culver's September 13

From 5 to 8pm on Tuesday, September 13 Culver's in Sycamore will be donating 10% of their sales to Salem's Food Pantry.

Magic Matt will also be there making animals and other things out of balloons. This should be a fun night out for the family.

Bring along a food item or paper item for the Pantry and receive a free small scoop of custard.

"Sunday Night Thing" First Meeting September 11

The Sunday Night Thing...Salem Youth Group

Meetings are Sundays at 7pm unless another time is noted.

First Meeting - Sunday, September 11

(meeting at Sycamore Park to play bags)

The boards are along the east side of the river by the bridge. If it rains, we'll meet in Fellowship Hall. Either place there will be snacks. Pick-up is 8:30pm. Parents, please complete a registration/permission form (available during Sunday School or at the Welcome Center) and send it with your youth the first meeting.

Remembering 9-11

Salem emergency and military personnel, those who serve as EMTs, firefighters, police, or military servants are invited to come in uniform as available for the 10th Anniversary Observation of 9-11 from 9:30-10 a.m. on the west lawn as part of Salem's Rally Day activities on Sunday, September 11. Please register your interest/availability with the church office. Thank you for your support as we honor and remember all who give their best for public safety.

Rally Day September 11

Salem Rally Day Events

Sunday, September 11

featuring "A Wing and a Prayer" Dixieland Jazz Ensemble

9-9:30 a.m. - Sunday school registration (children and parents visit rooms/meet teachers)

9:30-10:00 a.m. - Tenth anniversary 9-11 remembrance (outdoors on west lawn featuring Salem scouts, emergency personnel, and Dixieland jazz ensemble)

10:00-10:30 a.m. - refreshments

10:30 a.m. - Dixieland jazz worship in sanctuary

NI Synod Discipleship Gathering September 8

Northern Illinois Synod Discipleship Gathering

Thursday, September 8

6:30-8:30pm

Bethlehem Lutheran, DeKalb

"Communication and the Congregation...What Would Jesus Tweet?"

This year's Gathering will focus on effective congregational communication and changing technology. It is open to all interested congregational members (including high school youth). Registration is 6:30-7pm.

Salem/Bethlehem Women's Salad Supper Sept 6

All Salem women are invited to Bethlehem Lutheran Church at 1915 North First Street in DeKalb at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, September 6 for a shared Salad Supper. It is potluck so each of us is asked to bring a salad big enough to serve 3-4. At 7:30 we will hear Beth Nelson Chase who will tell us about her work at Christ Lutheran Church in Palestine. We can certainly carpool from Salem, meeting here at 6-6:15 p.m., if you like. For additional info, please call Judy Bergeson (815-895-9171).

September "Sunday Night Thing"

High School Youth "Sunday Night Thing"

HS Youth adult advisors: Julie Grendahl & Kirsten Yargus

All high school youth and friends are welcome to join us from 7-8:30pm in the Fellowship Hall.

September 11: Kickoff

Bags tournament and ice cream concoctions!

September 18: National Youth Gathering meeting

Parents, please attend this informational meeting. Letter sent in August to HS families.

September 25: Fun & Games Night

Summer Choir Sunday, September 4

Salem Summer Choir is a fun and easy way to share your gift of song. Singers meet in the choir room at 9:45 a.m. to learn a simple piece to share for 10:30 worship that day. All ages and voices are welcome! No robes or folders! You can sing for one summer choir Sunday or all!

Summer Choir Sundays include:

June 12

July 10

July 31

August 14

September 4

Salem Labor Day Weekend Worship

"Celebration of Daily Labor"

5pm Saturday, September 3

8 & 10:30am Sunday, September 4

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

Worship will include a Blessing of Hands.

New Office Hours

Salem office hours are moving a half-hour later beginning September 1. The office will be open 9am to 5pm Monday through Friday.

Raise Money for Salem's Food Pantry August 21

Sunday, August 21 from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. will be Salem Day at Panda Express (2434 Sycamore Road). On that day, the Food Pantry will receive 20% of the cost of meals purchased. You must present a special flyer in order to apply the 20% to the Food Pantry. The flyer has been sent in the August Town & Country, will be available in the narthex, and will be inserted in the bulletins the weekend of August 20-21. Watch for the flyer!

Noon Luncheon Sunday, August 7

Mark your calendars for Sunday, August 7 at noon for a farewell luncheon and celebration of God's work at Salem. We want to thank Pastor Janet for her gifts and all she has done for us, and that we sincerely wish her a loving farewell and Godspeed.

Hamburgers, brats, and hot dogs will be furnished. There are sign-up sheets in the Welcome Center so we know who is coming and what they plan to bring.

Come and wish her well!

Food Pantry New Location Blessing August 7

Pastor Janet will bless the new location of Salem's Food Pantry on Sunday, August 7 during the Hospitality Hour (9:15 a.m.) in Fellowship Hall. So many hands have helped make this happen. Y'all come!

Choir to Sing Sunday, August 7

Singers of all ages are invited to join in a choir for Pastor Janet's farewell and blessing Sunday, August 7 at the 10:30 worship service. Rehearsal will be held at 9:30 a.m. that day in the choir room. Your gift of song will be so appreciated as we say goodbye and wish Pastor the best in her new calling.

College Scholarship Applications Due August 1

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 1, 2011.

The 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 scholarship prior to September 1, 2011.

Pennies from Salem

Over the last few weeks, the people of Salem were invited to give gifts towards ELCA Disaster Relief - 100% of your gift going towards alleviating the suffering experienced and beginning to rebuild the areas in this country which have been hit so hard by tornadoes and spring storms.

We have raised $1313.56 for ELCA Disaster Relief for Joplin.

In addition, the children (and anyone else who wants to participate) will be invited to bring their pennies to church to put in a jar to be sent specifically to Peace Lutheran Church, Joplin, Missouri, whose entire church building was destroyed by a tornado on May 22. The goal is to gather 100,000 pennies (or $1000). We will be counting the pennies on Monday, August 1.

Salem's Vacation Bible School July 25-29

Salem's Vacation Bible School

July 25-29

ReNew - "Parable of the Sower"

For kids entering kindergarten through completion of 4th grade

Come join us for "The Green VBS." Free to all!

"Renew" helps kids lead the way as stewards of the earth. "Renew" is about hope, opportunity, and service -- kids will learn that being green can be easy, faithful, and fun!

For more information contact April Olson (815-901-4801).

Reflections with Pastor Sunday, July 24

Come to the Hospitality Hour in Fellowship Hall at 9:15 a.m. next Sunday, July 24. At that time we will reflect with Pastor Janet about her ministry here as well as what happens next for Salem.

Sunday, July 17 Community Servant Speakers

Janet Peterson is the director of the Gift Shop and Kathy Vickers is the director of Activities at the DeKalb County Rehab and Nursing Home. They work together in many creative ways to benefit the residents there, who greatly appreciate their efforts. Come hear stories about what they do and why they do it on Sunday, July 17 between services at the Hospitality Hour. You'll be surprised and delighted!

High School Mission Trip July 10-15

High School Mission Trip

with SALT - Service and Leadership Training

through Lutheran Outdoor Ministries Center

For students entering 9th grade through 12th grade graduates

July 10-15 in the Joliet area

Activities: painting, cleaning, stocking for local food banks and residential homes

Cost: $354 per person ($88.50 from student, $177 from fundraising, $88.50 from Salem)

Scholarships available

Please contact Julie Grendahl for details

julie.g@comcast.net

815-761-3714

Joplin, MO Benefit Cookout Sunday, July 10

The Social Justice Team and Haley Fischer are sponsoring a cookout on Salem's patio (weather permitting) to benefit Joplin, MO through the ELCA's Disaster Relief. The suggested donation is $5 per person or $20 per family. All the proceeds will go to the ELCA Disaster Relief earmarked for the people in Joplin, MO affected so severely by the tornado. Please sign up in the Welcome Center if you plan to attend and if you would like to volunteer to help with set-up, clean-up, or serving. There is also a sign-up sheet to donate salads and desserts. Come join us! It will be fun, delicious, and helpful to those beleaguered folks in Joplin. Thank you!

Brittany Sheldon to Be Awarded LOMC Camp Counselor of the Year 2010

Please come to the 10:30 service on Sunday, July 10, as our faithful nursery attendant, Brittany Sheldon, will be honored with a special presentation by the Lutheran Outdoor Ministries Center (LOMC). She was chosen the "Outstanding Counselor for the Summer of 2010," which is pretty special! Congratulations Brittany!

Hammered Dulcimer Solos & Demonstration July 3

Independence Day Weekend, Salem member Jim Kline will share "Patriotic Medley" and "Simple Gifts" at the 8 and 10:30 worship services. Between services he will demonstrate his hammered dulcimer at the 9:15 a.m. hospitality hour in Fellowship Hall. This rather unique instrument is often featured in "Americana" or Appalachian folk music. Come and enjoy what Jim has to share!

Old North Grove School Fun Fair Sat-Sun, June 25-26

Old North Grove School Fun Fair

Saturday, June 25, 11am to 4pm

Sunday, June 26, 1pm to 4pm

At its annual meeting on January 2, 1878, Salem Lutheran Church (originally named Swedish Evangelical Lutheran Samuel Church) voted to build a schoolhouse outside of Sycamore in the north grove. The cost was not to exceed $200. The building was to be used as both a parochial and Sunday school. Thus began a relationship between the little schoolhouse on Brickville Road and Salem Lutheran Church that has lasted for 133 years.

Each year the "Old" North Grove School Association holds an Open House the last weekend in June and invites Salem members to join them. Last year Salem's puppets visited the open house and recounted some of the history of the school. On Sunday Ron and Carla led everyone in a hymn sing. Salem members also donated baked goods that were sold on both days of the open house. The "Old" North Grove School Association is hoping that Salem members will again be willing to donate baked goods for the event. A signup sheet will be available in the Welcome Center.

The Association is also extending a special invitation to all Salem members. The theme this year is "Old North Grove School Fun Fair."

Come enjoy the following activities: tours of the school, folk music in the schoolyard, souvenirs, old-time games, cakewalks, raffles, and more! Lunch is available on Saturday, and root beer floats will be available on Sunday. We hope you'll come visit and experience not only a bit of the history of Salem, but also the history of Sycamore and of education in rural America.

Campfirmation Service Project Donations Needed!

At Campfirmation camp this summer, 8th graders will 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! We are collecting two-yard measures of heavyweight fleece from a bolt that is at least 40 inches wide. We also need a few pairs of good, strong scissors.

Please bring your donation to the church no later than Monday, June 20.

Building Use Conversation Sunday, June 19

Please join the Building Use Task Force in Fellowship Hall at 9:15 a.m. on Sunday, June 19 as they share their ongoing conversation about building use in terms of both Food Pantry and Sunday School needs.

Come and learn and wonder with them about how we might continue to accommodate and grow these important ministries.

What's Pastor Up To These Days?

Come to the Hospitality Hour in Fellowship Hall on Sunday, June 12 at 9:15 a.m. to hear Pastor talk about her continuing education for this year - especially her work in congregational mediation. Come ready to imagine with her how what she's learning can be applied to Salem!

Pentecost Weekend June 11-12

What Is Pentecost?

Pentecost is a great festival marking the birth of the Christian church by the power of the Holy Spirit. Pentecost means "fiftieth day" and is celebrated fifty days after Easter.

What Happened on Pentecost?

Ten days after Jesus ascended into heaven, the twelve apostles, Jesus' mother and family, and many other of His disciples gathered together in Jerusalem for the Jewish harvest festival celebrated on the fiftieth day of Passover. While they were indoors praying, a sound like a rushing wind filled the house and tongues of fire descended and rested over each of their heads.

This was the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on human flesh promised by God through the prophet Joel (Joel 2:28-29). Suddenly empowered to proclaim the gospel of the risen Christ, the disciples went out into the streets of Jerusalem and began preaching to the crowds gathered for the festival. By a miracle of the Holy Spirit, they spoke in the native languages of people gathered from all corners of the Roman Empire. This created a sensation. The apostle Peter seized the moment and addressed the crowd, preaching to them about Jesus' death and resurrection for the forgiveness of sins, resulting in 3000 baptisms that day. The Biblical account of the Church's Birthday on Pentecost is found in Acts 2:1-21.

How Can You Be Involved in Salem's Pentecost Celebration?

Come to worship, learn, pray, and celebrate the gifts of the Holy Spirit at any of Salem's three weekend services: 5pm Saturday, June 11, 8am or 10:30am Sunday, June 12.

Read Acts 2:1-21 in a foreign language for one of the worship services. A simultaneous reading of this story will give us a taste of what happened that day so long ago. Please sign up at the Welcome Center if you are willing to read.

Sing in Summer Choir for 10:30 worship. Singers of all ages will rehearse from 9:45-10:15 a.m. in the Choir Room to prepare a special Pentecost anthem.

Bring communion to one of our homebound members. Contact Judy Bergeson at Salem to volunteer (815-895-9171).

Wear red clothing, the liturgical color for the day. The color red symbolizes the tongues of flame descending on the first Pentecost, and honors the blood of martyrs, believers who hold true to faith even at the cost of their lives.

Bring a gift of red budding plants to decorate the church. These flowers will then be planted on the church grounds.

Listen to Pastor Janet at the 9:15 a.m. Hospitality Hour as she shares the work of the Holy Spirit in the church conflict training she is doing with the Mennonite Peace Center.

"Clash of the Salemites" and Cookout Sunday, June 5

Salem vs. Salem: "Clash of the Salemites"

Salem's TWO softball teams - Blue vs. Orange

Sunday, June 5, 2pm

Sycamore Park (off Airport Road), Field #10

Come cheer on BOTH of Salem's softball teams as they play each other!

After the game, players, families, and congregational friends and supporters are invited to join us in the Fellowship Hall for a potluck meal. Meat and beverages provided. Please sign up in the Welcome Center and bring a dish to pass. We'll have a ball!

Graduate Recognition Sunday, June 5

Salem's graduates will be recognized Sunday, June 5, at the 9:15 fellowship hour and 10:30 worship service.

Please join us as we give thanks and celebrate the accomplishments of this year's graduating class!

Boy Scout Troop 2810 Car Wash Saturday, June 4

Boy Scout Troop 2810 Car Wash Fundraiser

Saturday, June 4, 10am to 2pm

Salem Lutheran Church (back parking lot)

Donations will be accepted for the car wash. Stop by with a dirty vehicle, leave with a clean one, and support your local Boy Scout Troop 2810!

For more information, contact committee chair Connie Handel (815-895-6953) or trailtoeagle@comcast.net or Deb Loitz at 815-991-1101 or Deb.Loitz@gmail.com.

Boy Scout Troop 2810 is chartered by Salem Lutheran Church.

May's Sunday Night Thing at Salem

Salem High School Youth Group
All high school youth and friends welcome to any event!
Games, fellowship, projects, and some business!

May's Sunday Night Thing at Salem

May 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 - SNT meets at 7pm

Military Servants Honored May 28-29

Salem will honor all military servants at all Memorial weekend worship services, as well as at a 9:15 a.m. coffee Sunday, May 29, in Fellowship Hall. 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!

Women's Bible Study May 26

Salem Women's Bible Study meets the fourth Thursday of each month at 9:15 a.m. in the Chapel Lounge. All women are invited. Coffee and good conversation are provided! Bring your own Bible if you like. See you on May 26.

Salem G.E.M.S. Noon Potluck May 16

Salem G.E.M.S. 2011 (Growing Every Member Spiritually) - for ages 60 years or better

On Monday, May 16, Salem G.E.M.S. will hold a noon potluck in the Fellowship Hall. The program will be presented by Mary Overby of Sycamore Senior Center. The committee will provide grilled pork chops. Please bring one of the following to share: vegetable or salad or dessert. We will review your interest in the planning of an October trip to Wisconsin to have lunch and see the program, "The Dancing Horses." Contact Carol Saidat (815-899-8383) by Friday, May 13, to make your reservations for the potluck. Don't forget items for Salem's food pantry. Hope to see you! Spouses are always welcome!

Note: G.E.M.S. does not meet June, July, or August.

Second Annual CAC Walk Saturday, May 14

On May 14, the Children's Advocacy Center (CAC) of DeKalb County will sponsor their second annual walk to help finance their programs for children who have been abused.

CAC has already achieved cooperation among the several agencies that must interview a child victim, so that child is interviewed only once now instead of the several times previously. The goal of the CAC is to be an instrument of rescue and healing for these small people.

Last year, 15 people from Salem walked. Let's see if we can beat that number this year! Come to the Good Thymes Shelter at Sycamore Park (Airport Road) at 8:30 a.m. on Saturday, May 14. See you there!

We have more information in Salem's office (815-895-9171) if you would like to preregister.

New Member Reception May 8

New members will be received and celebrated at the 10:30 worship service on Sunday, May 8. Also, please be sure to join us in the Fellowship Hall at 9:45 a.m. as we welcome them to the congregation.

DeKalb-Sycamore Handbell Festival Saturday, May 7

Salem Sounds of Grace handbell ringers will join other area church handbell choirs in the DeKalb-Sycamore Handbell Festival Saturday, May 7. The event will be held at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 830 N Annie Glidden Rd, DeKalb, from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Guests are invited to a concert at 3 p.m. The workshop leader, Dr. John Behnke, is composer, organist, handbell director/clinician and Professor of Music at Concordia University in Mequon, Wisconsin. All are welcome!

NIU Lutheran Campus Ministry Meal May 4

First Wednesday of the month
Next date to plan for is Wednesday, May 4

Volunteers are needed to help provide meals prior to LCM's Wednesday worship. Sign up in the Welcome Center the last two weekends of each month. We will need eight volunteers each month to provide the following:

1) entree for 15
2) entree for 15
3) rolls for 15
4) rolls for 15
5) salad or side for 15
6) salad or side for 15
7) dessert for 15
8) dessert for 15

The food needs to be at Salem by 6pm for 7pm delivery at NIU. Please contact Jeanne Johnston at 815-895-5670 to volunteer and coordinate delivery. Thank you for your ministry of hospitality to NIU students!

New Member Dinner May 1

Interested in membership at Salem? A new member dinner (with ample time for conversation and questions) will be held on Sunday, May 1, from 5-7pm. Dinner and child care will be provided. If you plan to attend, please call the church office at 815-895-9171.

Easter Sunday Breakfast April 24

Easter Sunday Breakfast

Sponsored by the Salem Youth Group and the Salem Music Ministries

Sunday, April 24, 9-10:15am, Fellowship Hall

Adults $6.00 Children (3-10 yrs) $4.00 (Family maximum $20.00)

The menu:

Sausage

Biscuits and gravy

Scrambled eggs

Hash browns

French toast sticks with syrup

Fresh fruit and pastries

Coffee, apple juice, orange juice, and milk

Please let us know how many in your family will be attending so we know how many to plan for! The sign up sheet is in the Welcome Center.

There is also a sign-up sheet to donate the following items: pastries, fresh fruit, juice, and milk.

Servers and clean-up help needed. Call the church office to volunteer (815-895-9171).

Holy Week Schedule

April 16 Palm Sunday Worship, 5pm

April 17 Palm Sunday Worship, 8 & 10:30am

April 21 Maundy Thursday, 7pm

April 22 Good Friday, 7pm

April 23 Easter Vigil (Service of Light), 5pm

April 24 Easter Proclamation (Elmwood), 6am

April 24 Easter Sunday Festival Worship, 8 & 10:30am

April 24 Easter Breakfast (9-10:15am, Fellowship Hall)

Spring Cleaning April 23

On Saturday, April 23, from 9am until noon, join us for Spring Cleaning Day at Salem! Projects will include removing storm windows, washing windows, picking up trash on the church grounds, trimming trees, finishing up the polishing of the pews, and replacing any divots in the grass made by the snowplows.

Continuing Education Discussion April 17

What's Pastor up to these days? Come to the Hospitality Hour in Fellowship Hall on Sunday, April 17 at 9:15am to hear Pastor talk about her continuing education for this year - especially her work in congregational mediation. Come ready to imagine with her how what she's learning can be applied to Salem!

Lenten Soup Suppers, March 16-April 13

Wednesday Lenten Soup Supper, 5:30-6:45pm

Sponsors:

March 16: Worship & Property Committees

March 23: Salem High School Youth Group

March 30: Shari Hennessey/Judy Milroy

April 6: The Buzzard, Feuerbach & Sauber Families

April 13: The Benson/Carlson Annual Soup Buffet

Hosts provide 8-10 gallons of soup (varied kinds), beverages, and willing hands to serve and clean up prior to the 7 p.m. worship service. A free-will offering is received for a fund of their choice. Diners bring breads, crackers, or dessert to share.

Midweek Lenten Schedule, March 16-April 13

Apostles' Creed (Midweek Lenten Worship)
Wednesdays at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.
March 16 through April 13

March 16: "God the Creator"

Isaiah 40:28-31, Romans 8:14-17, Mark 14:36

March 23: "God the Provider"

Exodus 17:1-7, Psalm 23, Matthew 6:11

March 30: "Jesus, the Savior & Redeemer"

Colossians 1:13-14, John 3:16-21

April 6: "Jesus, the Lord"

Joel 2:32, Philippians 2:1-11, Acts 17:22-28

April 13: "The Holy Spirit - The Church & the Saints"
Acts 2:1-13, 1 Corinthians 12:4-11, John 14:15-30

Lenten Prayer and Pie (March 16 - April 13, 2 p.m. in Chapel Lounge)
A simple Lenten service with spoken liturgy, prayer, and hymns followed by pie and coffee.

Soup Suppers (March 16 - April 13, 5:30 - 6:45 p.m. in Fellowship Hall)
Soup and beverage provided; bring bread, crackers, or dessert to share.

Holden Evening Prayer (March 16 - April 13, 7 p.m. in Sanctuary)
Choirs, cantors, flutes, and piano will lead us in worship for Wednesday evening Lenten services. This beautiful liturgical setting was written in the 1980s for the community at Holden Village, WA (a year-round ecumenical Christian retreat center, rooted in the Lutheran tradition) and has grown to be an instrument of prayer and worship all over the world.

Celebrate 50 on Sunday, April 3

Come celebrate 50!!

Sunday, April 3, 2011

9 - 10:15 a.m.

Fellowship Hall

Pastor Janet's 50th Birthday

and 50+ Year Salem Members

Social Justice Team Presents "Poverty Perceptions"

Salem's Social Justice Team Presents "Poverty Perceptions" during Hospitality Hour at 9:15 a.m. on each Sunday in March.

Come, listen, and participate as we explore our knowledge and perceptions of poverty in DeKalb County as Christians and as a church family. There will be handouts and group discussions. We will talk about ideas and ways as a faith community we can help to prevent, reduce, and alleviate poverty. We will use as a reference Bridges Out of Poverty by Dr. Ruby K. Payne, Philip E. DeVol, and Terie Dreussi Smith.

Congregational Resourcing Event Saturday, March 19

Northern Illinois Synod Congregational Resourcing Event

Saturday, March 19
8:30am - 3:15pm

Kishwaukee College - Malta

"Rerooting in the Community: From the Kitchen Table to the Neighborhood"

Keynote speaker Rev. Stephen Bouman, Executive Director of Congregational and Synodical Mission, ELCA, will present how a congregation can have ministry for its community as a way to renew and revitalize its life and its evangelism.

8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. Registration and coffee
9:30 a.m. - 10 a.m. Welcome/worship
10 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. Keynote speaker
11 a.m. - 12 p.m. Workshop session A
12 p.m. - 12:45 p.m. Lunch
1 p.m. - 2 p.m. Workshop session B
2:15 p.m. - 3:15 p.m. Workshop session C

There are over 60 different sessions to choose from covering a wide variety of congregational interests. For more information, visit the NIS website at www.nisynod.org/cre or contact Nancy Corey at 309-794-4004. A brochure of workshops available can be found at the Welcome Center table.

The registration deadline was March 1.

Childcare is available with pre-registration (free-will offering accepted for this service). Registration before March 1 was $17 per person with lunch provided. Registration after March 1 is $22 per person and lunch may be provided if enough are available.

Please note that Salem will cover the cost of this event for congregational members. Please register at the Welcome Center table or with Sue in Salem's office (815-895-9171) if you would like to attend.

Girl Scout Sunday March 13

Girl Scout Sunday will be celebrated at Salem on March 13, including a blessing of girl scout ministry at each service. Scouts are invited to come to worship in their uniforms and participate in worship as they are interested. Contact the church office (815-895-9171) for more information.

Girl Scouts from across the country will celebrate 99 years of community service on March 12!

Photos from Shrove Tuesday Dinner & Cake Auction

Shrove Tuesday Cake Auction & Dinner March 8

Annual Shrove Tuesday Cake Auction and Dinner
Salem's Fellowship Hall

sponsored by Salem's confirmation students

Tuesday, March 8
Dinner 6 p.m.
Cake voting period ends 6:45pm

Cake auction begins 7 p.m.

We will be serving pulled pork sandwiches, chips, veggies, and a drink. Suggested donation for the meal is $5.00 per person. Bring a cake to auction! Bid to take home your favorite cake! Vote for your favorite cake!

Funds raised will be split between 2012 National Youth Gathering, Samaritan's Village Orphanage, and Salem's Food Pantry.

Cake theme categories: The Apostles' Creed, Living Christ's Love, Salem's Favorites, Sports/Games, Food for Thought, TV & Technology, God's Creatures, Miscellaneous, and Age 10 & Under (all entries in this category win a prize!).

That's So Daniel Presented March 5-6

We're ready! Please join us for Salem's spring children's musical...

That’s So DANIEL!

Saturday, March 5, 5:00 Worship

Sunday, March 6, 10:30 Worship

Presented by Salem Creative Arts Ministry

Salem kids bring the Bible to life in a fresh and vibrant way with That’s So Daniel!, a musical about making good choices!

Meet Daniel, a young boy who sometimes stretches the truth, as he encounters the Biblical Daniel and learns lessons about honesty, obedience, choices, and worshipping the one true living God.

Join the cast as they portray a comical but genuine look at the biblical tale of Daniel, his encounters with King Nebuchadnezzar, a lion's den, and a fiery furnace.

3rd Graders to Celebrate First Communion February 27

On Sunday, February 27, at the 10:30 service, Salem's third graders will be celebrating their First Communion. When they were baptized, God made them part of His household, the family we call the Church. They are learning as we share the bread and wine of Holy Communion, we remember Jesus' death and His rising that first Easter Day, and how eating the bread and drinking the wine makes us one with Him and brings us closer to each other. They express their desire to join around the Lord's Table. Join us as we celebrate a very special day for seventeen of our young people.

Meals on Wheels Volunteers Needed in February

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 doesn't take long to complete a route (usually 11am - 12:30pm) and your help is greatly appreciated!  Please call Salem's office to volunteer (815-895-9171).

We will need one person to help another volunteer on:  West Route - February 22, 24, 25, 28.

Scrappin' Bonanza February 18-19

Do you have photos just waiting to be organized into albums?  Maybe you love to create handmade cards and just can't find the time?  No better time than this to get it together!!

Come to Salem's Scrappin' Bonanza to get caught up on those projects you have put on the back burner.  We'll be in the Fellowship Hall from 8am to 10pm both Friday and Saturday, February 18 & 19.

You can come for a couple hours, or stay all day, both days.  Go and return to projects as your schedule allows.  These days are for beginning crafters as well as undeniable crop-a-holics in need of a little scrappin' therapy.

We will supply: fun crafting "toys" to share like Cricut die cutters, Cuttlebug embossers, and some stamping supplies.

What to bring: your photos, papers, embellishments, adhesives; items you need to work on your projects; snacks to share (optional); any scrapping-type tools you want to use or share; drinking cups/bottles (ones with lids are strongly recommended).

Meals are on your own.  Bring something, or money to pick something up (if desired).  The kitchen will be available.  We will have lemonade, coffee, and light snacks.

There is sign-up in the Welcome Center, but we'd still love to have you if you don't get signed up ahead of time.  Questions?  Contact Brenda Jones (815-895-6161) or Lauri Paulsen (815-895-8416).

Special Offering for LCM February 12-13

On the weekend of February 12-13, we will receive a special offering for Lutheran Campus Ministry at Northern Illinois University.  We offer our gifts in memory of those who were killed in the tragic shooting at NIU three years ago.  Even more than that, we share our gifts to support our very important ministry there which is a gift to students in impossibly difficult times like that one and in times of celebration and growing and stretching, too.  Please look for the special envelope included in your worship bulletin that weekend.

Blood Drive Saturday, February 12

Salem Lutheran Church Blood Drive
Saturday, February 12  8 a.m. - noon

Please call the church office (815-895-9171) to schedule your donation.  Walk-ins are welcome!  Photo ID required.  Donate blood and receive a $5 Dunkin' Donuts card!  This drive is being held in honor of those students who lost their lives on the NIU campus three years ago.

Sunday, February 6 Is Scout Sunday

Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts (of any level) are encouraged to wear their uniform to church on Sunday.  The Scout Troop that Salem sponsors, #2810, will greet, usher, and lead the Psalm at the 10:30 service.

All scouts and leaders will be asked to come forward for a blessing at each of the three weekend services.

New Member Reception February 6

New members will be received and celebrated Sunday, February 6, at the 10:30am worship service.  Also, please be sure to join us in the Fellowship Hall at 9:15am as we welcome them to the congregation.

Souper Bowl of Caring February 5-6

On Super Bowl weekend, Salem youth are collecting for Souper Bowl of Caring.  Youth groups across the nation collect donations to help their choice of causes to meet the needs of people across the world.  Salem youth collect donations to support Noe, a 15-year-old Tanzanian boy we sponsor through Compassion International.  Please watch for us with soup pots for our collection after each of the worship services on Super Bowl weekend, February 5-6, to make a contribution.

Interested in Membership at Salem?

Are you a visitor to Salem who is interested in finding out about what Salem has to offer you as a member?  If you are, you are invited to attend a New Member Gathering to be held on Sunday, January 30, from 5-7pm.  Dinner and child care will be provided.  Please let us know of your interest by calling the office and speaking with Pastor Janet or Sue at 815-895-9171.

Grief Support Group Meeting January 30

The next Grief Support meeting will be Sunday, January 30 from 3 - 4:30 p.m. in the Chapel Lounge.

Our goal is to help people in grief from the death of a spouse, child, sibling, someone special in their life, share in a warm and safe group of others who understand.  Call the church office for more information (815-895-9171).