Christ Lutheran Church of Valparaiso, Indiana

Looking to join a Ladies Bible Study in Valparaiso, IN ? Come Join Us @ Christ Lutheran ChurchTuesday Evenings Starting 2/28/12 For "The Peace God Promises "

2012-01-29T16:22:00.000-06:00

Come Join Us!

The Tuesday Evening Ladies Bible Study at Christ Lutheran Church in Valparaiso, IN is starting a new book study on 2/28/12

The Peace God Promises – >

Closing The Gap Between What You Experience and What You Long For...

by Ann Spangler

Read Synopsis of the description of this Book here:

We are a small group of ladies of all ages that enjoy fellowship, the study of God’s word (bring your own bible – we will share each other’s versions of scripture) and lifting up each other’s prayer requests.

Our meeting time is = 7:15 pm to 8:45 pm Room 120 on Tuesday Evenings starting February 28, 2012

Each Chapter of the Book has a separate focus on Scriptural Promises of Peace from both the Old and New Testament. The book is not cumulative, so even if you miss a week of this study, you won’t feel lost.

If you would like to join us, please sign up by calling Grace Safrin (facilitator) safrin@jorsm.com or leave a message at Christ Lutheran Church 219-464-6660 with a call back number.

We will be ordering the book (used- cost TBD) if you need one, please let us know when you sign up.

Read a sample Chapter of this book here

xxxx

Come Join us 12/19/11 at 7pm for Christmas Stories Told by Walter Wangerin, Jr. at Christ Lutheran Church in Valparaiso, IN

2011-12-11T14:45:00.000-06:00

Image courtesy of wikepedia

Families and children are welcome to attend this free evening of story told by acclaimed author and storyteller, Walter Wangarin, Jr - winner of the National Book Award.

This special evening is hosted by Christ Lutheran Church in Valparaiso, IN

located at 2610 N. Campbell Street MAP

on Monday, December 19, 2011 from 7:00 - 8:00 p.m.

Come Join us, all are welcome here!

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Praying Without Ceasing ?

2011-11-21T10:42:00.002-06:00

Pastor Hawkin’s sermon yesterday got me started thinking about praying without ceasing (the text was in Ephesians 1:16).

He talked especially about those moments in the day when my thoughts are my own, especially wait times—doctor’s offices, grocery lines, trains… for me, that might include time in front of the copier at school (I’m a teacher).

Which got me thinking about where and why I pray.

I guess I’ve known for a long time that there are parts of my life where I’m less likely to present moments to God in prayer—and I think the school setting is one of them.
It’s not that I don’t consider myself a Christian at school, just that it doesn’t occur to me as often to pray before a staff meeting, or about a student’s difficulty with reading, or as I’m planning lessons for the next week. I tend to think of those as areas I’m supposed to be handling—I am a professional, after all!

But I’m thinking that for me, praying without ceasing may mean developing a greater awareness of God at my elbow (and in my head and heart) in every moment.
It would mean losing the sense of going into any task or setting on my own powers, and instead knowing I’m always part of a team (and I’m NOT the coach!).
Naturally, as a team begins a task they discuss it.
The more often I’m mindful of God’s presence—God, in all His power, goodness, love, and wisdom—the more often I’ll be running things by Him, thanking Him, and especially listening to Him!

So I’d like to grow in this, and I’d like to hear back from anyone who might be working on the same thing.
Are there any corners of your life that you’ve recently invited God into? Times in your day when you’ve newly realized God’s there with you, too?

Am I the only one who’s so full of herself that she forgets God is always there, in every moment?!

Blessings—

Lisa Owen

Christ Lutheran Church in Valparaiso, Indiana Welcomes New Interim Associate Pastor!

2011-11-11T11:22:00.000-06:00

Hello!
I’m Pastor Erica Gibson-Even and I’m so very glad to be joining the Christ Lutheran Church family as Interim Associate Pastor this month.
My family and I have been thrilled to find ourselves in such a welcoming community. An area of special focus for me at CLC will be Faith Formation.
Christ Lutheran is richly blessed with ways to support growth in faith – from birth, childhood, throughout life - I am excited to see what the Spirit has in store as we continue to deepen our emphases on family ministry and our growth in discipleship as a community of faith.

Pastor Erica

Fall Bible Study @CLCValpo led By Walter Wangerin Jr. Galatians & 1st Corinthians

2011-09-20T18:00:00.000-05:00

.....Beginning Monday, September 26, 2011

Please join us the fall for a bible study of the books of Galatians and 1st Corinthians with VU Senior Research Professor and National Book Award Winner Walter Wangerin, Jr.

For those looking for an entry into bible study and those seeking to add to their knowledge of scripture, all are invited and will find a place in this study.

BOOKS OF THE BIBLE:
GALATIANS AND 1ST CORINTHIANS
A BIBLE STUDY LED BY WALTER WANGERIN, JR

Date/Time:
Monday, Sept. 26th, 7 - 8 p.m.
(and every Monday thereafter)

Location:
Christ Lutheran Church sanctuary.

Registration not required.

For more information contact CLCVALPO@frontier.com
or call 219-462-6660

Ladies Come Join Us, New Bible Study Starts 10/25/11 -> The Tender Words of God

2011-09-08T11:22:00.000-05:00

Come Join Us!

The Tuesday Evening Ladies Bible Study at Christ Lutheran Church in Valparaiso, IN is starting a new book study on 10/25/11:

The Tender Words of God – by Ann Spangler

God speaks words of: Compassion, Forgiveness, Peace, Strength, Protection, Love and Mercy, Blessing and Provision, Guidance, Faithfulness, Hope and Comfort, and Healing!

Jesus is The Last, Most Tender Word.

Enjoy the journey through the Old and New Testaments where scriptures are revealed that every human longs to hear.

We are a small group of ladies of all ages that enjoy fellowship, the study of God’s word (bring your own bible – we will share each others versions of scripture) and lifting up prayer requests.

Our meeting time is= 7:15 pm to 8:45 pm Room 120 on Tuesday Evenings starting October 25, 2011

Each Chapter of the Book is on a Different WORD. The book is not cumulative, so even if you miss a week of this study, you won’t feel lost :)

If you would like to join us, please sign up CLCValpo@frontier.com or call 219-462-6660

We will be ordering the book if you need one, please let us know when you sign up if you need us to order you a book also-> the cost is $13.25 new.

Gifts and Talents, A Bible Study Outline For the Nominating Committee of CLCValpo

2011-06-12T12:04:00.001-05:00

Nominating Committee,

As we think about those who will be the leaders into the future for Christ Lutheran Church of Valparaiso, it is imperative that the Nominating Committee understand the qualities required. In the church we call those gifts and talents. These are not necessarily the same, though they may be. Paul in his first letter to his protégée Timothy spends times describing the qualities of a deacon:

“Deacons likewise must be serious, not double-tongued, not indulging in much wine, not greedy for money; they must hold fast to the m mystery of faith with a clear conscience. And let them first be tested; then, if they prove themselves blameless; let them serve as deacons. … Let deacons be married only once, and let them manage their children and their households well; for those who serve well as deacons gain a good standing for themselves and great boldness in the faith that is in Christ Jesus.” (1Timothy 3:8-10, 12-13)

In an understanding of the above passage, we as a church have applied this as a rule of thumb for the leadership of a congregation. Granted when Paul was writing he was referencing male leadership as that was the model for his day. However, I believe these qualities to be universal regardless of the gender of the leader. Also, we have massaged out some of this in the realization that in today’s culture not everything Paul was using as a measuring stick is useful.

When we talk about gifts and talents these are a bit more specific. Most of the information I am going to share here is from, Discovering God’s Vision For Your Life: You and Your Spiritual Gifts, developedby Kenneth C. Hauck, Tebunah Ministries, ©1998.

Dr. Hauck defines spiritual gift as:

“Spiritual gifts are unique endowments from the Holy Spirit, generously shared with Christians in community for building up the body of Christ in practical ways.”

He believes and so do I that every person is given at least one spiritual gift to use for the building up of the community of faith. Many people are endowed with several spiritual gifts as well. The one thing we as a Body of Christ can be assured of is that Jesus did not leave us bereft of all the gifts necessary to be His living presence in this community. We, the Congregation of Christ Lutheran Church, Valparaiso, Indiana, have been given all the spiritual gifts required to be about Christ’s business in God’s creation. So what are the spiritual gifts Dr. Hauck identifies? He has a group of twenty that are referenced in scripture. I will list them and the scripture references he provides as support.

1. Proclamation – Romans 12:6; 1 Corinthians12:10; 1 Corinthians 12:28; Ephesians 4:11.

2. Servanthood – Romans 12:7; 1 Corinthians 12:5.

3. Teaching the Faith – Romans 12:7; 1 Corinthians 12:28; Ephesians 4:11.

4. Encouragement – Romans 12:8.

5. Generosity – Romans 12:8.

6. Nurturing Leadership – Romans 12:8.

7. Mercy – Romans 12:8.

8. Wisdom – 1 Corinthians 12:8.

9. Knowing - 1 Corinthians 12:8.

10. Faith – 1 Corinthians 12:9.

11. Healings – 1 Corinthians 12:9; 1Corinthians 12:28.

12. Miracles – 1 Corinthians 12:10; 1Corinthians 12:28.

13. Discernment – 1 Corinthians 12:10.

14. Tongues – 1 Corinthians 12:10; 1Corinthians 12:28.

15. Interpretation of Tongues – 1 Corinthians12:10; 1 Corinthians 12:30.

16. Apostleship – 1 Corinthians 12:28; Ephesians 4:11.

17. Helping – 1 Corinthians 12:28.

18. Visionary and Managing Leadership – 1Corinthians 12:28.

19. Evangelism – Ephesians 4:11

20. Shepherding – Ephesians 4:11

For each of these gifts as Dr. Hauck identifies them he has written up how he understands their definition. I have his whole system of gifts discernment in my library and will be more than happy to share these definitions with the Nominating Committee. I hope this is helpful and insightful as you accomplish the task of discerning the leadership for Christ Lutheran Church.

CLC Valpo

Shalom

Pastor John

Premier Performance of a Musical Dramatization of the Story of Sarah and Abraham!

2011-05-03T11:10:00.000-05:00

Mark Your Calendars and come join us on Tuesday Evening, May 24th, 2011 @ 7pm
Christ Lutheran Church
2610 North Campbell St. Valparaiso, IN 46385

We've hosted Keri Burman's - Yadah Paraise Productions performances at church in the past. Great stories from the Bible brought to life like:

Queen Esther

Mary of Nazareth

Mary Magdalene

Now for the 1st time, the newly married Mrs. Keri Castro will be performing with her husband Daniel in their Premier Performance of a Musical Dramatization of the Story of Sarah and Abraham!

"Through songs and monologues, one couple describes how faith and trust in God's timing led to blessings beyond compare in their lives and marriage."

So, if you would like to join us on Tuesday Evening, 5/24/11 @ 7:00 pm please call Paula Starek at Christ Lutheran Church 219-462-6660 or email CLCValpo@Frontier.com
There is no charge to attend - (free will offerings for Mr. & Mrs. Castro are appreciated).
We just ask you please RSVP in advance by Sunday 5/22/11
- Refreshments provided after the presentation.
Check out CLCValpo's Social Media Sites:

CLCValpo on Facebook

CLCValpo on Twitter

CLCValpo on You Tube

CLCValpo's BLOG

Prayer Vigil @ Christ Lutheran Church in Valparaiso, IN on 4/12/11 Come Join Us!

2011-03-23T14:02:00.025-05:00

On Thankful Tuesday, April 12, 2011

Let’s come together in prayer, filled with thankfulness for 32 years of faithful ministry to CLC from Pastor Jerry W. Castleman
Pr. Castleman will retire after Mothers Day in May. May Almighty God continue to bless Pastor and his family during his retirement.

We Invite You to Join Us to Ask for God's Blessings and Lift Up Those in Need by attending a

Public Prayer Vigil
on
Tuesday, April 12

anytime between
9:00 am to 9:00 pm
at the
New Sanctuary of

Christ Lutheran Church
2610 N. Campbell St. Valparaiso, IN 46385
Map

219-462-6660 or clcvalpo@frontier.com

Please commit to participating on this Thankful Tuesday
in the Sanctuary
or in your heart
at a specific time of your choosing.

Come Join Us, All are Welcome Here!

Praying The Names of Jesus - A New Ladies Bible Study at Christ Lutheran Church in Valpo

2011-03-11T11:15:00.007-06:00

Opportunity Knocks!

Did you ever want to join a Ladies Bible Study?

How about one that is flexible enough that you can plug in any given Tuesday Evening, and even miss a week and not fall behind, because the topic is NEW each week. Your chance starts April 5th, 2011 at 7:15 pm – Mark your calendar!

The Study “Praying The Names of Jesus” (written by Ann Spangler from Grand Rapids, MI), Will be held in Room 120 @
Christ Lutheran Church in Valparaiso, IN and consists of:

Reading the Weekly Lesson aloud

Reading & Reviewing associated Bible passages of scripture(we all have different versions of the Bible, bring your own or we can lend you one if needed)

Answering a few thought provoking questions written by the author

Prayer time (requests)

Fellowship and Laughter

"For where two or three have gathered together in My name, I am there in their midst." Matthew 18:20

Come Join Us Ladies – All are welcome here!

For more information contact Paula Starek @ clcvalpo@frontier.com or call 219-462-6660

Facilitated by Grace Safrin

Christ Lutheran Church serves as a Great Commission congregation

2011-02-20T17:50:00.008-06:00

Christ Lutheran Church serves as a Great Commission congregation.

· We love our neighbors who need our help inside and outside of the church.

· We attempt to invite those who are “disconnected” from Jesus Christ or from a church home to join us in loving God and loving our neighbors.

We begin by realizing what only God can do, and then what we can do. Only God, the triune God, can convince people of their need for a Savior, forgive sin, give faith, bring people to repentance and conversion, and give people lasting peace and hope.

We can model Christ’s love by building relationships based on trust and caring, and helping others to meet their needs in a culture, where Christian service and friendship can make a huge difference. If our lives reflect more love and caring, then more people would be encouraged, empowered and equipped to act in neighborly ways.

It’s about WE. We will pray. We will invite. We will serve gladly. We will shine!

We will pray, in Jesus’ name, for people “disconnected” from Christ or a church home.

We will pray, in Jesus’ name, that the work of Satan in our community will not disunite more lives.

We will pray, in Jesus’ name, that God’s love will shine through us so that others see that God is good.

We will invite people to meet Jesus with us.

We will pray that the Holy Spirit will be active in all hearts -- to soften the hard-hearted and to ignite the believers to shine the love of Jesus.

We will pray that the Holy Spirit will open all eyes and ears to God’s word and the love of Christ.

We will invite people to come for worship and to serve gladly and help others.

We will pray, in Jesus’ name, to shine God’s love to make new friends and build caring relationships in our community.

We will pray that the Holy Spirit will give people confidence to “connect” with Christ in this congregation.

We will pray that the Holy Spirit will ignite the light of Jesus to shine on others in this congregation and in the community -- to serve gladly and to help others.

It’s about WE. We invite you . . .

· We invite you to an all day public PRAYER VIGIL on Tuesday, April 14. We will welcome you to Christ Lutheran’s new sanctuary -- joining others in the Valparaiso community to thank God for the faithful service of Pastor Jerry Castleman, who will retire on Mothers Day. Pastor Castleman has served as a Pastor of the Great Commission at Christ Lutheran for 32 years. Also, this is an occasion to ask almighty God to continue to look on Pastor, and his family, with grace and favor.

Karen Seykowski - Evangelism Chair, CLCValpo

CHRISTIAN MESSENGERS IN DAILY LIFE...

2010-12-14T17:06:00.014-06:00

CHRISTIAN MESSENGERS IN DAILY LIFE... By Sue Schoech

Sharing the Good News in today's world includes caring, sharing, & giving the gifts of hope & peace when we talk & listen to folks & build relationships in daily life. God has opened the door for every Christian to reach out & share their faith stories. Everyone who has been baptized is a walking talking role model. Each of us has a lot of control of how that plays out in real life!

As we walk on our faith journeys together, what can we do to enable ourselves to walk & talk a more Christ-centered life in a noisy culture where Christian messages could make huge differences, if our voices were heard & listeners could be encouraged, empowered, equipped to act in positive ways.

Taking positive action in today's world to make differences can be rather overwhelming - even with the Bible as a guide & Christ-centered believers around us. Then The Holy Spirit seems to lead us on "Faith Adventures" that provide hope. Adventures come in lots of forms. This time I discovered books that provided "AH HA" moments. Lots of things made sense recently when I read Biblical Equipping: God's Word in Your World. Then I read the book Me, an Evangelist? The clues & cues of "Evangelism" have come slowly while I've been serving on the NW Indiana Conference Outreach Team. It was a real joy to receive several insights reinforced by examples & ideas. Insights from the book Me, an Evangelist? provided a reality checklist of "What We Can Do" & "What only God Can Do" (pages 45-46).. .Now I say the Serenity Prayer with more wisdom!

What Only God Can Do

As evangelists, it is important for us to remember the distinction between what only God can do and what we are able to do. Only God can:

• convince people of their sin and their need for a Savior (John 16:8-9);  give people faith (John 1:12-13; Eph. 2:8-9);

• defeat death and give eternal life (John 10:27-29; John 11:25; 1 Cor. 15:51-57);

• forgive sin and free people from guilt (Ps. 51:7; Isa. 1:18; Ps. 130:7; Ps. 32:5; 1 John 1:9);

• bring people to conversion and repentance (John 16:7-11; John 14:6; Acts 11:17-18; 2 Tim. 2:25);

• give people real peace (Ps. 4:8; Isa. 9:6, 26:3; John 14:27, 16:33; Rom. 5:1-2; Phil. 4:6-7); and

• give people lasting hope (Rom. 15:13; 2 Thess. 2:16-17; 1 Pet. 1:3).

As evangelists, we can:

• listen with accepting love; • build a trusting, caring relationship;

• model Christ's love by helping others who are sad, lonely, depressed, or who have other needs;

• try to understand the feelings, needs, beliefs, ideas, and hopes of others;

• pray for others;

• witness assertively when others seem open to hearing; and

• invite others to attend church or to begin a relationship with Jesus when they are ready for such an invitation.

Realizing this can be very freeing. God doesn't hold us responsible for the results of our witness! It is our job to care, to witness, and to live the love of Christ for others as much as we can. It is God's job, not ours, to bring these people into a relationship with Jesus. What a relief to leave this responsibility in God's hands!

Another awesome book is:

Organic Outreach for Ordinary People – sharing good news naturally!

The Triune Hypothesis by H.E. Eickleberry, Jr.

2010-12-02T10:29:00.014-06:00

One of our members has a NEW Book published!

If you browse Amazon.com this Christmas season, you may come across one of our own members here at CLCValpo and his new book:

The Triune Hypothesis by

H.E. Eickleberry, Jr.

"The Triune Hypothesis" is a guide to reading the Bible prophetically in all three dimensions of interpretation-the horizontal axis in time (what was, is, and/or is to come), the perpendicular axis in application (literal, figurative, and/or spiritual), and the vertical axis in context (thesis, generality, and/or antithesis).”

The book is also available to download in Kindle Version as well.

It’s nice to see another local Valparaiso, IN author’s book make the Amazon list!

You can visit The Triune Hypothesis Website

The Triune Hypothesis Facebook Page for more info.

Congrats & Blessings to Mr. Eickleberry this Holiday Season!

Prayers For Svitlana Mayboroda and her Missionary Ministry work in Russia!

2010-11-28T16:15:00.022-06:00

At our Tuesday Evening Ladies Bible Study @CLCValpo we had a special guest visitor.

Svitlana Mayboroda is a Christian Missionary who visits state orphanages in Khabarovsk, Russia bringing children the word of God and Bibles (Bibles For Russia).
In winter, she travels from Khabarovsk to remote parts of Siberia on frozen river beds to deliver the word of God!

It was fitting that she came and shared her ministry (including many photos)with us the week we studied Yahweh Tsuri - The LORD is My Rock.

Sveta's work is challenging, needing a firm foundation of faith and prayer that only God can provide...and he does!

We were blessed by her story and thankful for people like her who devote their lives to spreading God's word to children who have no homes.

Please keep Sveta and her missionary work in your prayers.

Mary of Nazareth–A Musical Dramatization by Keri Burman Yadah Praise Productions @ CLCValpo- Public Welcome!

2010-11-10T13:14:00.020-06:00

Mary of Nazareth – A Musical Dramatization by Keri Burman of
Yadah Praise Productions @
Christ Lutheran Church in Valparaiso, IN 46385 on Tuesday, 12/7/10 @ 7pm – Public Welcome!

If you attended the presentations of Queen Esther, or Mary Magdalene, then mark your calendars, because you won’t want to miss Keri Burman of Yadah Praise Productions perform a Musical Dramatization of Mary of Nazareth!

Through songs and monologues,

one woman tells the story of the birth and death of the Savior of the World.

Scripture:

Matthew 1:18-25,

Luke 1:26-38, 46-55, 2:1-52

Songs:

"Sing We Now of Christmas"

"Mary, Sweet Mary"

"Breath of Heaven"

"My Son or My Savior"

"Bethlehem Morning"

Come join us on Tuesday Evening, December 7th at 7:00 pm for this 45 minute presentation in the sanctuary followed by refreshments (Homemade Christmas Cookies) in our gathering space!

There is no charge to attend - (free will offerings for Keri Burman are appreciated).
We just ask you RSVP in advance by Sunday 12/5/10.
To RSVP please call Paula Starek at Christ Lutheran Church. tel # 219-462-6660 or
or email - >
CLCValpo@frontier.com

Come Join Us...All are welcome here!

Christ Lutheran Church is located @ 2610 North Campbell St. in Valparaiso, IN 46385

Follow us @ CLCValpo on Twitter, Facebook, You-Tube or our Website or BLOG

CLC Valpo Sunday School Stewardship Focus = Operation Christmas Child - Won't You Join Us & Give This Christmas Away !

2010-10-24T14:28:00.034-05:00

The next Sunday School Stewardship Focus at Christ Lutheran Church in Valparaiso, IN is to collect small items (toys, hygiene items, hard candy, small books) to be packed in shoe boxes and shipped overseas as a part of Operation Christmas Child which is a global ministry project of Samaritan's Purse.

Additionally, we are collecting donations to cover the shipping of each gift wrapped shoe box as well.

To learn more about this wonderful ministry, please watch the video below and consider joining the CLCValpo Sunday School Children and their families in collecting items for the shoe boxes through November 22nd, 2010 or consider a donation for shipping costs. Give This Christmas Away!

God Bless You!

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Prayer Vigil - Public Welcome - Christ Lutheran Church - Valparaiso, IN on Tuesday, October 19th, 2010 from 9am to 9pm

2010-10-04T14:34:00.012-05:00

Prayer Vigil - “Be still, and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10).

Tuesday, October 19^th, 2010 - 9am to 9pm

Take time out of your day to come sit in the new sanctuary at Christ Lutheran Church 2610 N. Campbell St. in Valparaiso, IN for a few minutes or even an hour and lift up your prayers for family, friends, neighbors, our congregation, nation and world.

Invite a friend or two to come with you if you like, this event is open to the public.

"For where two or three have gathered together in My name, I am there in their midst" Matthew 18:20

Drop in whenever you can!

There will be Music Interludes every hour by talented congregational members either playing musical instruments or singing.

Each half hour on the Hour, there will be Readings from the Scripture by CLC members who have chosen to share passages that inspire them to pray.

The rest of the time will be for silent reflection, Bibles will be provided, to read and reflect on God's word.

The Sunday School children are making prayer beads to give out as gifts to those attending.

A Host Table will be set up with volunteer Greeters - and a special keepsake scrapbook made by a talented member for guests to sign in will be located here.

We will have plenty of Prayer Request Forms that guests can fill in and leave with us - for their prayer requests to be lifted up at Future Sunday Services.

Also, There will be a collection of prayers written by congregation members that will be sealed and buried in a Time Capsule in our planned PRAYER WALK which connects our corner parcel of Church land to the existing Community Walking Paths!

If you can join us in person, or even take time to pray with us from a remote location that day, we would welcome it!

For those unable to attend, but who wish to submit a prayer request in advance please feel free to email CLCValpo@frontier.com with "Prayer Request" as the topic in your email.

The Little Lamb preschool children will be singing a song and praying at 10:15 am and 1:15 pm.

Colossions 4:2
Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.

Feel free to visit us on the web at the following sites:

http://www.clcvalpo.org/

http://www.clcvalpo.blogspot.com/

www.facebook.com/people/Christ-Lutheran-Church/1383698108

www.twitter.com/clcvalpo

www.youtube.com/clcvalpo

The Meaning of the Hand Crafted Stained Glass Windows in our New Sanctuary at Christ Lutheran Church, Valparaiso, IN

2010-09-12T18:55:00.055-05:00

We Are Blessed to have members of Christ Lutheran Church in Valparaiso, IN that have time and talents to do wonderful things, like Design, Create and Install the stained glass windows in our new sanctuary! Won't you join us on Sundays in worship and experience the beauty for yourselves. All are welcome here! Until then, here is the story behind the meaning of each window behind the altar......

WINDOW OF THE COVENANT

God creates! And sheds his Spirit to be with those created in his image, man and woman. He establishes his Covenant with his chosen people Israel, whose twelve tribes are represented in the central motif. The deep blue at the bottom of the design recalls the waters of Creation, the triangular section in red names the tribe of Judah from which shall come The King of Kings, the green and gold tell of the richness of life that God has promised to his people.

WINDOW OF MESSIANIC PROMISE

This is the Jesse Tree - the family tree of Christ -deriving front Isaiah's prophecy of the coming Messiah from the royal line (Judah) of David (Star of David motif): "And there shall come forth a rod out of the stem of Jesse, and a branch shall grow out of his roots". This motif has a rich historical place in stained glass story-telling, dating back to the first half of the twelfth century, Christ's words "I am the vine, you are the branches" underline the basic, all-embracing metaphor of the root and branch of salvation. Hope for an errant Creation!

WINDOW OF BROKENNESS

God's giving of the Law is seen as a scroll, a scroll torn by Israel as they refuse to obey the perfect plan given to them. Brokenness results between people and God, between one with another. The rich gold is infiltrated by the murky brown and one can only perceive through the glass darkly. The center of all of this is hope in the promise of God to all of his children that nothing can separate them from his love. The blue and red burn with hope and the promise of salvation from sin.

WINDOW OF DESPAIR

The Chosen turn their backs on God, and in despair, know destruction, death, and hell. Alone, colorless, transparent, distorted. Here are a people and individuals without purpose - or God. The rich gold is dimmed, but still surrounds, the deep blue envelopes the experience of despair. God, however, forgets not His promises and so the deep blue is also of a gracious, loving Father, The Spirit and the hope persist, at the center of it all.

WINDOW OF EUCHARISTIC J0Y

With the chalice we remember: "This is my body, this is my blood...given for you". The new life is now nourished. The risen Christ shares our new life and by his presence we live and move and have our being. The deep blue of hope is framed here by the sacrificial red of Christ's own blood, poured out for us for the forgiveness of our sins. The chalice set within the green of new life proclaims the resurrected Lord and Savior.

WINDOW OF BAPTISMAL LIFE

The Spirit and waters of Creation are restored to all of God's people. We are re-created and receive new life through God's gift of Baptism. He comes to offer abundant life and tells us that he is the light of the world. Whoever believes this shall have everlasting life. The gold shines with un-marred intensity!

WINDOW OF LIFE

A mirror image of' One West - the believer becomes as Christ: God's image on earth for service. The life with God is a life of hope and joy, committed to God's people, and anticipating the life to come. Life everlasting is expressed by the up-turned face, the uplifted hands. The beginning and ending (alpha and omega) of Christian living is in love toward God and Neighbor.

WINDOW OF FULFILLMENT

Christ, the long-awaited Messiah, becomes the son that God intended Israel to be. He becomes God's image to serve, not to be served. The symbol above the Christ figure's head is the triquetra and circle, demonstrating the continuous indivisibility of the Holy Trinity. As the light shines through this figure of Jesus, son of man, notice how his face, upturned in praise and adoration of his Father in heaven, is illumined by that "light" from above.

-
Barbara Clements, 1985

The project committee was comprised of these three workers:

Barbara Clements - design, and project director

Debra Stack - glass craft

Bernhard Bittorf - installation and advisor

These windows will give worshipers inspiration for decades to come. Let us give thanks unto the Lord for His goodness!

Feel free to visit us on the web at the following sites:

http://www.clcvalpo.org/

http://www.clcvalpo.blogspot.com/

www.facebook.com/people/Christ-Lutheran-Church/1383698108

www.twitter.com/clcvalpo

www.youtube.com/clcvalpo

Children Live By Example Of Others !

2010-08-18T16:54:00.009-05:00

Children live by example of others.

Parents pray that their children will follow the RIGHT examples and not the wrong ones.
When Jesus said, “Follow me,” he was inviting everyone to live by his example.

And so we pray for the strength to follow Jesus.
Nothing helps more to follow Jesus than the example of those others who are following Jesus. They set a good example, and they are setting that RIGHT example that is God’s own gift to us. They inspire us in the way that Hebrews 12:1 puts it, “we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses,” and so we can follow Jesus—by their example.

In the Christian community, we are literally surrounded by many others who are following Jesus.
Sometimes YOU are the one who is inspired, and that is wonderful!

When you are inspired by persons of faith, thank God for their place in your life that you may live a committed life of faith.
At other times YOU are the one who is able TO BE AN INSPIRATION for someone else.

Thank God for that privilege.

Ask for God’s help that you will be up to the privilege.

Pastor Jerry Castleman
Christ Lutheran Church

You are Cordially Invited to Join Us for the Dedication of our New Sanctuary & 40th Anniversary Worship Services-Christ Lutheran Church-Valparaiso, IN

2010-08-12T14:21:00.020-05:00

The members of

Christ Lutheran Church

2610 Campbell Street - Valparaiso, IN 46385

Invite you to

The Celebration of our 40th Anniversary

and the dedication of our new Sanctuary

On Sunday, September 19, 2010

40th Anniversary Worship Services

8:00, 9:30, and 11:00 am

Sunday school is at 9:30 am

Please join us any Sunday at these times!

Dedication Worship Service

at 3:00 pm in the Sanctuary on 8/19/10.

Hors-d’oeuvres served in the Gathering Space

Following the Dedication Worship

For more information please contact us @

219-462-6660 (ask for Paula Starek)

Or email:

clcvalpo@verizon.net

Feel free to visit us on the web at the following sites:

http://www.clcvalpo.org/

http://www.clcvalpo.blogspot.com/

www.facebook.com/people/Christ-Lutheran-Church/1383698108

www.twitter.com/clcvalpo

www.youtube.com/clcvalpo

Livin' on a Prayer

2010-08-04T14:45:00.018-05:00

Livin' on a Prayer

I was relaxing the other day and studying the prophet Bon Jovi (Very New Testament:).
His most popular song is "Livin' on a Prayer".
As I sat listening to my iPod, I realized how little "quiet time" I allow myself.
My typical day (especially if I go back about a year) may have some similarities to your typical day. It starts with me getting up early and immediately turning on WGN News.
A) It is imperative to know what the weather is going to be. That way I know that when I put on a suit and tie, I'll be too warm, too cold, too wet, etc. (rarely is it Goldilocks' third option), and
B) how embarrassing would it be to not know something world-changing that happened over-night? "You're kidding? Lebron signed with Miami?" So, I get ready for work with Robbin Baumgarten giving me all the latest Chicago news in the background and then kiss my wife goodbye. She mumbles something resembling "iuvu2" - which professionals have interpreted as either "I love you too" or "that was a funny video on uTube".
I drive to work while eating a bowl of cereal, responding to an email message (only while at a red light if there are any law enforcement officers reading this), changing my out-going voicemail message, and listening to Mike and Mike in the Morning (ESPN Radio - crucial for staying up-to-date on any banking news).
My first audible exchange is generally in the McDonald's dive-thru - "medium black coffee, please"; "will that be all (cheapskate)?"; "yes, thank you".
I arrive at work and dive into whatever work-related meetings, issues, fires, appointments, and discussions the day has to offer.
I drive home listening to sports-talk radio, generally with work still on my mind. Lanie and I have dinner in front of the TV (with any luck, a re-run of The Office is playing), clean-up the kitchen, watch Piniella stammer though a post-game explanation of why the Cubs lost another one-run game, get ready for bed, and repeat of the cycle.

There are many things wrong with this typical day (besides the Cubs losing again), the biggest being, when am I talking to God? Is it that important to have something filling the space of every potential quiet moment?
I'll catch myself sometimes during the day.
For instance, I'll be in the car (you may be able to relate to this as well) and think, "this would be a good time to pray". I'll turn down the radio and attempt to clear my mind. "Dear Lord, please be with my brother-in-law as he struggles with his health. Wow it is a pretty nice day. Should I try and play nine after work? Please be with my nieces and nephew as they face important decisions in their lives. How can you POSSIBLY drive that slowly in the left lane?! Also, please be with OH BIRD POOP. Why is it always right in the middle of the window?" You get the picture. It is better than not praying, but it is nearly impossible to avoid the distractions.
I want to be able to blame someone or something, but mainly setting some time aside is within my control.
That presents a great opportunity, and I am trying to improve.
My favorite time to pray is first thing in the morning. I try to remove myself from as many distractions as I can so that I can have a real dialogue with God. Sometimes I jot bullet points so I do not forget to include something (Lanie has taught me to love lists).
My parents pray as a couple every morning. They are a great example.

The chorus of the song includes the line, "take my hand and we'll make it I swear". I don't think Bon Jovi visualizes the Lord's powerful hand reaching out towards us, but that is a great way to think about it.

- Livin' On a Prayer.

Scott Steinwart

Weeds among the Seeds...being Still and hearing God...

2010-07-20T14:22:00.013-05:00

Photo Courtesy of Wikepedia

It was another long night and I just could not sleep.

Although it was late and I was tired, my internal clock still was off a few hours. Some of my colleagues have no trouble with the seven hours change, but for me it takes at least a week.

I was laying in bed listening to my iPod thinking about Kelly and the girls at home. They were getting ready for Thursday’s Lenten service. The Lenten season just started a week earlier and I was feeling more melancholy than usual because these are my favorite services and hate missing them.

Then I decided to grab the gift in the night stand that was left by the Gideons of the Netherlands. It was the New Testament written in four languages. English was nestled between German and French. I flipped to Matthew and started at chapter 12 where I left off a few days ago. I read for a little while and then decided it was time to stop reading, turn out the light and sleep.

As I laid in bed staring into the darkness, a parable in chapter 13 was running through my head. It was the parable of the weeds. For whatever reason, my mind was spinning around this parable. It seemed pretty simple and in addition Jesus even explained it to his disciples later in the chapter.

I got that the farmer (Jesus) sows seed of wheat (word of God) in the field (the world) and then the enemy (Satan) comes along sowing seeds of weeds (people belonging to the evil one). Ultimately the weeds are collected and burned and the wheat is collected into the barn. I had many questions some rational and others not. Can only the farmer tell the difference between the seeds? Since the weeds and wheat grow together can they tell the difference between each other? And lastly and most troublesome is that the grass and wheat both grow together but end in completely different places.

Maybe I was reading too much into this parable. Maybe each plant is only the difference between the word of God’s and Satan and not people. People around me, people that I know and love, people that had the seed of weeds planted inside them.

After what seemed to be hours of staring into a black ceiling a voice came to my mind. At the time I felt I was just talking with myself. I started asking the voice the many questions. Then the voice said, “You’re missing it”. Focus on what you can control.
The voice asked what is the purpose of wheat? I responded well to grow and bear fruit. Exactly! And how does that happen? I responded Uhh? OK. I will go slowly for you.

I remember smiling because I was having a conversation with myself. So I just insulted me.

The seed is the word of God right? Yes,Once the seed is planted what does it need to grow?
Water and nutrients in the soil. Very good and who provides the water and nutrients? Jesus. Yes again.

I was feeling pretty good now.

What else is needed?
Sun light and air.

OK and who provides these? Well God is the light and the Holy Spirit provides the air.
Yes. So wheat is only wheat when it first starts with a seed of wheat. Then the seed must take in the water and nutrients provided by Jesus, the light of God and the air of the Holy Spirit.

When the seed uses all of these it turns into a plant and if it continues using the soil, water, light and air it will ultimately bear fruit. The wheat’s health along with amount of fruit depends on the amount water, nutrients, light and air are used by the plant. Although both are plants, the fruit is what distinguishes the difference between the weeds and wheat. When these plants come to maturity all that look into the field can easily tell the difference between them.

So Chris you need to focus on taking in what you need so that the fruit will come. You do not want to be confused with a weed that is bearing no fruit.

Focus on being wheat and not worry about the weeds. Let us take care of everything else.

Sleep finally came and I slept a good three and a half hours.

Chris Aiken

Ladies Tuesday Night Bible Study @CLCValpo starting a NEW Study soon ...New Members Welcome!

2010-07-19T14:31:00.016-05:00

Ever thought about joining a Ladies Bible Study?

We are starting a new study topic soon (see announcement below), and if you are interested and able to join us - please let us know ladies, we'd be happy to have you join!

The Ladies Tuesday Evening Bible Study Group at CLCValpo is starting a NEW Study!

Praying the Names of God by Ann Spangler –> A 26 week study exploring the Hebrew names of God revealed in scripture.

Each week we will look at a different name – so come when you are able!

Enjoy fellowship, prayer time and learn that "the names of God given us in Scripture aren’t just ornamental, accidental or even historical…they are given us to confirm attributes of God that address our “very time of need”.

Our 1st session will begin Tuesday evening 8/24/10 @ 7:15pm -8:45 in room 120. at Christ Lutheran Church, in Valparaiso, IN.

The 1st name we study will be: ELOHIM = God, Mighty Creator!
The following week 8/31/10 we will learn about EL ROI = The God who sees me –(one of my personal favorites).

Facilitated by Grace Safrin
Come Join us ladies – all are welcome here!

Contact Paula Starek email@ clcvalpo@verizon.net
or call 219-462-6660 for more information.

A Note from our Social Ministry Chair at CLCValpo....

2010-06-22T14:07:00.006-05:00

I love our new worship and fellowship spaces--so much more room, without feeling all spread out and lonely! And I've loved seeing and feeling the energy and investment of all the people working, sharing, giving... Not that that's anything new here. It's just more visible in one particular spot right now! Some less visible sites:

-- New Creation Men's Center, where CLC members provide meals every second and third Friday

--The Lutheran Deaconess Association, where we'll be providing workers to help with some prep and painting at the end of July.

There are sign-ups and more info in our new fellowship areas for each of these service projects. It's humbling to know that God wants to use us as Jesus' hands and feet every day, wherever we go!
In His love,
Lisa Owen

It was an Awesome Event - Thanks to You all.....

2010-06-03T12:51:00.010-05:00

Counting myself, there were 70 people who attended the Musical Dramatization of Mary Magdalene on Tuesday evening (6/1/10) @CLCValpo in the New Sanctuary.

Keri Burman's performance was spirit filled.

The fellowship that followed among all who lingered and enjoyed refreshments and each others company in our gathering space was priceless.

A big thanks to those who assisted in any and all ways to make this event come together!

God Bless you all

Sincerely,
Grace Safrin
Evangelism Chair
Christ Lutheran Church
Valparaiso, Indiana

p.s. for those of you who missed this event, and for those who enjoyed it so much to want to come again....watch for the Women's Bible Study group announcement in winter (before Christmas) as we plan to have Keri back to perform the story of Mary of Nazareth!

Change: Fear or Hope?

2010-05-26T15:47:00.007-05:00

Change: Fear or Hope?

Change, it’s only a six-letter word, but just the mention of this word fills us with either fear or hope. As humans, we are resistant to change. We like normalcy. We like when the matters of life just let us be. Unfortunately, the matters of life, the matters of relationship, the world, and sin force us into action and into the change that we so greatly fear. So then, since this change is inevitable, what are we being called to change or conform to? What is our security within this change?

The Apostle Paul guides us to what we shouldn’t be changing to fit or conforming to,
“I appeal to you therefore, brothers and sisters, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds, so that you may discern what is the will of God—what is good and acceptable and perfect.” (Romans 12:1-2)

Though the world with all its glitz and glitter calls to us, “Conform to me, be like me!” we are left with no security in the promises of the world. We are left with the dissatisfaction of what we have become and with the knowledge that we need to continue to change in an effort to obtain this feeling of security within the world. Without this security and filled with fear, we are called to turn from our conformity to the world and turn to the promised change that we have received in Christ.

As Christians, how are we to respond to not only this word but also the experience of change as well? As Christians, we are promised that we this change has already begun in us and will be fully completed in Christ. We are called trust in what we are being changed into.

“See what love the Father has given us, that we should be called children of God; and that is what we are. The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him. Beloved, we are God's children now; what we will be has not yet been revealed. What we do know is this: when he is revealed, we will be like him, for we will see him as he is. And all who have this hope in him purify themselves, just as he is pure.” (1 john 3:1-3)

So, where do we find security in the midst of change? We find our security through our trust, hope, and belief in God’s word and promise that His word will be fulfilled. Our peace comes in the midst of not knowing exactly what change will take place but knowing that change will come to completion in Christ.

Vicar Jason Pollington
Christ Lutheran Church

Welcome Coffee Mugs at Christ Lutheran Church !

2010-05-25T13:28:00.013-05:00

I can remember "Church Shopping" when 1st moving to Valpo in 1998.
Our family chose Christ Lutheran Church because we felt welcomed here after the 1st service we attended and because the girls felt instant rapore after hearing Pastor Castleman's sermon. Those two factors alone made Sunday morning regular attendance an easy habit:)

With our NEW Sanctuary being much bigger, we now have a Welcome Center for greeters to provide guests and prospective members with information & printed materials about our many services, groups and ministries here at CLCVALPO and even a Coffee Cup to take home with our church address, phone number and website clearly printed on it along with our logo.

This Coffee Mug is customized and detailed by one of our own members Bob Hall!
Thank you kindly Bob, for helping make CLC a more welcoming place for all those looking to join our church!
May God's Glory Dwell in our Land.

Blessings,

Grace Safrin

Click the highlighted links to :

Follow the messages of Christ Lutheran Church on Twitter

Become a Friend of Christ Lutheran Church on Facebook

Visit our website @ www.CLCValpo.org

Christ Lutheran Church in Valpo presents: Mary Magdalene – A Musical Dramatization by Keri Burman of Yadah Praise Productions

2010-05-07T14:49:00.014-05:00

Mary Magdalene - A Musical Dramatization by Keri Burman of Yadah Praise Productions - @

Valparaiso’s Christ Lutheran Church Tuesday, June 1^st, 2010 @ 7:00 p.m. Public Welcome!

Come join us in our NEW Sanctuary @CLCValpo located at the corner Of Campbell St. & Vale Park Road

for a wonderful reenactment of a Woman of the Bible.

Often mistakenly characterized in popular writings, Mary Magdalene was an early follower of Jesus Christ and witness to His glorious resurrection. Through songs and monologues, Ms. Burman brings the scriptural based story of Mary Magdalene to life, right before the audience, with spirit filled passion and a God gifted voice!

The Songs:

See, What a Morning
Heal the Wound
Where the Nails Were
I Don’t Want to Go
They Could Not

The Monologues:

Mary’s Introduction, Healed from Demon Possession, (Luke 8:1-3)
Becoming a Follower of Christ, The Crucifixion of Jesus (Matt. 27:55; Mark 15:40, 41; Luke 23:27-31, 48-49)
The Stone is Rolled Away, Peter and John Believe (Luke 24:1-12, John 20:1-9)
Mary’s Encounter with the Risen Lord, (John 20:10-18, Mark 16:9-11)

The ladies at our Women of the Bible Study @ CLC are excited to host this event.

So, if you would like to join us on Tuesday Evening, June 1st at 7:00 pm please call Paula Starek at Christ Lutheran Church located @ 2610 North Campbell St. in Valparaiso, IN 46385. Tel # 219-462-6660 or email - > CLCValpo@verizon.net

There is no charge to attend - (free will offerings for Keri Burman are appreciated).

Refreshments provided after the presentation

We just ask you please RSVP in advance by Sunday 5/30/10

Visit Keri's website to read how her God given gifts and talents are reaching across all denominations to bring stories of the women of the bible to life and remind us of God's word and love!

Come Join us...All are welcome here :)

Plant a Tree with us at Christ Lutheran Church in Valparaiso!

2010-05-02T22:12:00.012-05:00
I've written about God's Amazing Trees - a project underway at Christ Lutheran Church in Valparaiso, IN to beautify our new church grounds and give back(to the community and our earth).

Come join us on the planting days :

May 8 - 9 a.m.- 3 p.m.

May 15 - 9 a.m.- 3 p.m.

May 22 - 9 a.m.- 3 p.m.

(photo of Cypress tree courtesy of Wikepedia)

I chose to buy a Cypress Tree to have planted on the grounds because of it's biblical significance.

The book of Genesis describes God's commands to Noah to build an Ark of Cypress Wood, for the world had become violent :(

The Ark was filled with 2 of every living creature...and I have 2 beautiful children I'd like to dedicate this Cypress Tree for - May it be a visual reminder of God's Covenant to us after the flood.

May God's Glory Dwell in our Land.

Blessings,

Grace Safrin

Click the highlighted links to :

Follow the messages of Christ Lutheran Church on Twitter
Become a Friend of Christ Lutheran Church on Facebook
Visit our website @ www.CLCValpo.org

Christ Lutheran Church Youth Group Sponsors Rummage Sale This Week - Donations and Shoppers Appreciated!

2010-04-19T18:40:00.016-05:00

Church Wide Youth Rummage Sale

Saturday April 24
7:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

In the Christ Lutheran Activity Center.

Please enter through Door #10 on south side of building.

Donations of gently used, clean items can be dropped off at same location ON :

Thursday, April 22 9:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
or....

Friday, April 23 9:00 am. -6:00p.m.

Thanks in Advance for Your Support of this Important Ministry - The Proceeds will help fund our High School Youth Mission Trip this Summer!

Tammy Mason

Director of Youth

Christ Lutheran Church
2610 North Campbell Street
Valparaiso, IN 46385

email : clcvalpoyouth@verizon.net
219-462-6660

GOD's Amazing Trees !

2010-04-07T18:15:00.033-05:00

GOD'S AMAZING TREES !

TREES are the LARGEST, OLDEST & MOST COMPLEX plants on earth!!!

For centuries they have provided housing, furniture, fuel, tools, paper, medicine & even food.

Trees even help us breathe by absorbing carbon dioxide & returning oxygen to the air!

Let's be good stewards of the Earth & plant 101 trees at Christ Lutheran Church to add to the beauty of our new building as well as giving the gift of cleaner air in our community. Trees are really gifts that keep on giving to others!

Thanks for sharing & caring.

THINK SPRING!!!!!!

Planting season is just around the corner and you are invited to participate in our
“God’s Amazing Trees!” project.

If you would like to donate a tree OR towards a tree,

Contact Sue Schoech with questions or call 219-462-666- for more info.
AND, join us on planting days this May!

May 8 - 9 a.m.- 3 p.m.

May 15 - 9 a.m.- 3 p.m.

May 22 - 9 a.m.- 3 p.m.

Easter Reflections....and Connections from Christ Lutheran Church in Valparaiso, IN

2010-04-01T14:44:00.036-05:00

Henry Reed once said " All human beings are interconnected, one with all other elements in creation" ......brings to mind a story about the Palms children used last Sunday in worship ...where did they come from ?....perhaps the connection maybe closer than you think:)

Tuesday evening Bible Study of "Women of The Bible" is one of many fellowship groups at Christ Lutheran Church in Valparaiso, IN.

When the group formed, just last summer, one of our members had a friend in Singapore named Sue that really wanted to join in on our study. Thankfully, we live in times with technology available to say YES....So we hooked up a laptop with a video camera to SKPE internet service and voila...Singapore Sue joined us for the summer Bible Study sessions!

Recently, I was excited to get an email from Sue allowing me to re-post photos and some of her experiences in harvesting PALMS which were then blessed and shipped to various churches for Palm Sunday worship.

Below is a re-cap of some of her experience.

As we prepare for the hustle & bustle of the Easter Holiday weekend and we reflect on
the most important message of all time, let us remember.... we are all somehow connected.... children of a loving God.
John 11:25-26
Jesus said to her, "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die.

Have a Blessed Easter!
Grace Safrin

Here are some photos of a recent trip I was able to take.
I had the opportunity to travel in a 3 hour car caravan to Malacca Malaysia with my church group for 2 nights and we visited a Palm Plantation Kampong Home.
There we trimmed, washed,and bundled 3,000+ palm branches to bring back to Singapore for blessing and distribution.
The group goes every year and I felt very lucky to go with them this year.
We were treated by the Nonya of the home to her delicious home cooked Malay dishes for a dinner and a lunch.
It was also a reflective time for me as we approach Holy Week and Easter.
Palm branches have take on an expanded meaning now.
Love, Sue

Join Little Lamb Pre-School to Help Replenish Health Kits For Lutheran World Relief Efforts...

2010-03-22T11:16:00.024-05:00

Little Lamb Preschool in Valparaiso, Indiana
Is collecting
Health Kits For Lutheran World Relief

Please forward this to any other people you can. Churches are asked to please assemble health kits. They are desperately needed due to the Chilean and Haitian earthquakes that depleted Lutheran World Relief''s supply.

Service Project: Lutheran World Relief has a great need for Health Kits in response to help for Haiti. Our preschool would like to help the relief effort by donating health kits. Please consider joining us in making one or more. There will be a collection box in the Education Center hallway now until March 31st. One Health Kit consists of the following items:
-->One hand towel, dark color recommended.
-->One washcloth, dark color recommended.
-->One bath-size bar (4-5 oz.) of soap, any brand, in its original wrapping
-->One adult size toothbrush in its original packaging.
-->One sturdy comb (remove packaging).
-->One nail file or nail clippers with file attached, remove packaging (no cardboard emery boards)
-->Six Band-Aids (or similar brand), preferable 1/2" to 3/4" secured together with rubber band.
Please do not add other items or leave out any of the items listed. All items should be new and in good condition. Wrap smaller items in the washcloth; wrap washcloth and remaining items in the towel and tie securely with ribbons or yarn. Do not enclose the kit or any of its contents in plastic bags.

For more information please contact Little Lamb Pre-school or
Christ Lutheran Church in Valparaiso, IN @
2610 Campbell Street, Valparaiso, IN 46385-2355
(219) 462-6660‎

God's Promises can be Seen in the Midst of a Storm

2010-03-16T17:45:00.014-05:00

Remember the saying "April Showers Bring May Flowers" ?

Rainstorms are common in Spring and Summer and with them sometimes you can catch a glimpse of a rainbow like this photo taken during the storm this past weekend.

Rainbows are a visual reminder of God's promise to us. Here is the Message Bible version of just one of many promises... so when you see a rainbow in the midst of a storm this spring or summer, remember God's many promises to us :)
Genesis 9:12-17 (The Message)

^12-16 God continued, "This is the sign of the covenant I am making between me and you and everything living around you and everyone living after you. I'm putting my rainbow in the clouds, a sign of the covenant between me and the Earth. From now on, when I form a cloud over the Earth and the rainbow appears in the cloud, I'll remember my covenant between me and you and everything living, that never again will flood waters destroy all life. When the rainbow appears in the cloud, I'll see it and remember the eternal covenant between God and everything living, every last living creature on Earth."
¹⁷ And God said, "This is the sign of the covenant that I've set up between me and everything living on the Earth."
Blessings to all,
Grace Safrin
Evangelism Chair
Christ Lutheran Church in Valparaiso, Indiana
XX
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Click the highlighted links to :

Follow the messages of Christ Lutheran Church on Twitter
Become a Friend of Christ Lutheran Church on Facebook
Visit our website @ www.CLCValpo.org

Christ Lutheran Church in Valparaiso, IN offering Personal Evangelism Workshops

2010-03-09T18:51:00.006-06:00

Have you ever…
… wanted to tell someone about God’s love, but were
hesitant to do so?
… been asked why you are a Christian and not been
able to answer?
… wished that a friend could share the joy of Christ,
but you don’t know how to help?
If so, we have a workshop that is right for you!!

PERSONAL
EVANGELISM
WORKSHOP
Led by Pastor Norland

This one workshop is offered at the following times on Sunday, [March 14] for your convenience:
8:00 A.M.
11:00 A.M
6:30 P.M. for Youth at CORNERSTONE
You may sign up for one of these workshops on the kiosk in Church Hall. Please join us in reaching out and sharing the love of God shown to us in Jesus Christ. We have good news to share!

Christ Lutheran Church is located at 2610 NorthCampbell Street Valparaiso, IN 46385.
For information call 462-6660.