Today’s altar flowers are given to the glory of God and in memory of George Leelike by Susan, Chris, and John Leelike.

We welcome Deacon Linda Walker as our guest preacher today and Connie Schmalz as our guest musician.

Reconciling in Christ: The Social Justice Social Ministry (SJSM) Committee is proposing that St. John’s becomes a “Reconciling in Christ” church. For nearly 50 years, ReconcilingWorks: Lutherans for Full Participation has advocated for the full welcome, inclusion, and equity of LGBTQIA+ Lutherans in the life of their Church, congregation, and community. Over the next several months, our congregation will offer several educational opportunities. Their goal is to present a motion at the February congregational meeting to adopt a welcome statement and officially become an RIC church. More details to come!

Many library books are overdue or missing from our church library. Please check your shelves and return the books to the library or the church office. Thank you.

Anti-Racism Committee Summer reading books available with discussions after Labor Day. Small Great Things, recommended donation $10. Sum of Us: What Racism Costs Everyone and How We Can Prosper Together recommended donation $15. Books available in the church office.

The Hinman Scholarship Fund applications are now being accepted. Applications can be found in the church office. Contact Linda Mesenbrink with questions.

Homecoming Sunday, September 11: Join us as we kick-off the fall program year. This is an exciting time to re-engage in worship, education, music and service. Services will be held at 8:00 AM and 10:30 AM followed by a picnic at Noon. Sign-up sheet is in the entryway. We ask that you bring a side dish, salad or dessert to share.

Congregational Retreat—September 30–October 2: Join us for a fun weekend at Cross Roads for activities for all ages, faith formation, building connections with other church members, or simply to connect with nature. We have reserved the entire Christ Center, a modern hotel-like retreat space with private bathrooms. Speak to Pastor Scalet or Jane Bowman with questions.

Lutheran Disaster Response for those affected by the crisis in Ukraine with immediate financial support (100% of all donations are given). You can mail or drop off a check at the church office, or donate online and type “Ukraine” under the “Special Giving” field or in the memo line.

Join the Music Ministry this Fall

Help lead worship, sing and play inspiring music from across the centuries, and build community with fellow musicians and members of St. John’s.

St. John’s Choir begins September 7

Open to high school through adults

Rehearsal Wednesdays 7:30-9:00 PM, Sings most Sundays at 10:30

Handbell Choir begins September 18

Open to Middle School through Adults

Rehearsal Sundays 11:45 to 12:45 PM, Plays occasionally at 10:30

Recorder Choir begins September. 21 (6:30 to 7:15 PM)

Open to high school through adults – Rehearsals Wednesdays 6:30-7:15 p.m.,

plays occasionally at 10:30

Coming Soon: Children’s Choir and Drumming Ensemble

Watch this space for more info

For more info email Christopher Harlow-Jennings, Director of Music at charlowjennings@stjohnssummit.org.