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The Second Sunday after Epiphany

Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church Tucson, Arizona

January 16, 2022

Welcome to Grace! Our mission at Grace is to teach the inspired and inerrant Word of God, to proclaim that Jesus Christ is the crucified and risen Savior of the world, and to nurture believers for lives of Christian service. Check out the GRACE WEBSITE at GraceLutheranSAZ.org

Worship Notes We are very pleased that you have joined us for worship today! We pray that this time will be a blessing for you as God comes to you with his Word and promises, and as you offer him your thanks and praise.

The order of worship we will follow is printed in this worship folder for you to follow along and participate. You’ll notice that the service is a dialogue between God and us, his people. The pastor speaks to God along with the congregation and also speaks the Word of God to the people. Today we are using elements from the new Christian Worship hymnal. You will find these new worship books in the hymnal racks in each pew. You will be asked to open the hymnal to participate in parts of the service today. We hope this will help our members and friends become better acquainted with these new books. A vocalist will aid in our singing and will be recorded for our audio disks and video live-streaming. Our Epiphany Series—Uncovered We are in the season of the church year called Epiphany, a Greek word that means “to appear.” Salvation has appeared in the person of Jesus Christ. In Epiphany, the church explores everything that Christ makes apparent about God. You see, we need God to appear to us and make himself known to us. For not only is God beyond our understanding, his works and ways are contrary to mankind’s natural assumptions about him. In other words, the truth of God cannot possibly be discovered by us. Rather, it needs to be uncovered for us. That’s what the Spirit is doing for us during this season of Epiphany. Week after week, surprising truths about Jesus our King and life in his kingdom will be uncovered. ANOINTING UNCOVERED: What the eye sees differs from what God decrees DELIGHT UNCOVERED: God delivers more than we ask, not less RECEPTION UNCOVERED: Rejection is not the exception but the rule AGENDA UNCOVERED: What must be said, not what others want to hear UNCOVERED MESSENGERS: The least qualified are the first sent DEFINITIONS UNCOVERED: Blessings are cursed; curses are blessed REACTIONS UNCOVERED: Love your enemies; overcome evil with good GLORY UNCOVERED: When it is most hidden, it is most on display Our Theme for Today—DELIGHT UNCOVERED: God Delivers More Than We Ask, Not Less Is the pursuit of God and the pursuit of pleasure two separate paths? Many make that assumption—that life with Jesus is a boring, sterile experience. They are dead wrong. Jesus came to undo everything that is wrong with our world as a result of sin's curse. He also came to multiply our joy and deliver delight beyond our wildest dreams. Note that when Jesus begins to reveal his glory, it isn't by going to a hospital to cure every ailment. Instead, he starts at a local wedding, one of the greatest sources of joy in this life. The truth uncovered for us this week is that life with Jesus is not a life with less delight, but infinitely more. 1

ORDER OF WORSHIP

PRESERVICE MUSIC: Great Is Thy Faithfulness Victor Labenske Amazing Grace Jim Brickman

WELCOME

And Can It Be? Anna Laura Page

OPENING HYMN

Arise and Shine in Splendor Christian Worship #375

Please stand

INVOCATION M:

In the name of the Father and of the ( ) Son and of the Holy Spirit.

Amen.

These words are printed for your quiet meditation: No condemnation now I dread; Jesus, and all in Him, is mine! Alive in Him, my living Head, And clothed in righteousness Divine, Bold I approach the eternal throne, And claim the crown, through Christ my own. Bold I approach the eternal throne, And claim the crown, through Christ my own.

CONFESSION M: C:

Blessed are they whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered. Blessed are they whose sin the Lord does not count against them.

M: C:

Let us confess our sins to the Lord. Almighty and merciful Father, we have strayed from your ways like lost sheep. We have followed what we have devised and desired in our hearts. We have offended you and sinned against your holy law. We have done those things that we should not have done, and we have not done those things that we should have done. Have mercy on us, Lord! Spare us, forgive us, and restore us, according to your promises in Christ Jesus.

Psalm 32:1-2

Silence for meditation and reflection M:

God, our merciful Father, has forgiven all our sins. He sent his Son, Jesus Christ, to be our Redeemer and Savior. Jesus paid the penalty for our guilt by his death on the cross and freed us from death by his resurrection from the grave. We have peace with God now and forever. Amen.

“Kyrie” is the Greek word for “Lord.” The expression “Lord, have mercy” is one of the oldest worship responses in the Christian Church.

LORD, HAVE MERCY

M: C:

In peace let us pray to the Lord. Lord, have mercy.

M: C:

For the peace from above and for our salvation, let us pray to the Lord. Lord, have mercy.

For the peace of the whole world, for the well-being of the Church of God, and for the unity of all, let us pray to the Lord. Lord, have mercy.

C: M:

Christians praise God by proclaiming the great things he has done to accomplish our rescue from sin. The “Gloria in Excelsis,” Latin for “Glory to God in the Highest,” has been a Christian song of worship since the 4th century. It echoes the words the angels proclaimed to the shepherds in Luke 2:14.

Kyrie

For this holy house and for all who offer here their worship and praise, let us pray to the Lord. Lord, have mercy.

M: C:

Help, save, comfort, and defend us, gracious Lord. Amen.

GLORY BE TO GOD

Gloria in Excelsis

Please join in singing this song of praise following a brief introduction.

THE WORD PRAYER OF THE DAY M: C:

The Lord be with you. And also with you.

Let us pray.

Almighty God, you gave your one and only Son to be the light of the world. Grant that your people, illumined by your Word and sacraments, may shine with the radiance of Christ’s glory, that he may be known, worshiped, and believed to the ends of the earth; through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and reigns, one God, now and forever. Amen.

Please be seated

FIRST READING 1

For the sake of Zion I will not be silent. For the sake of Jerusalem I will not be quiet, until her righteousness goes forth shining brightly, and her salvation burns like a torch.

Nations will see your righteousness, and all kings will see your glory. You will be called by a new name that the mouth of the L will assign to you. Then you will be a beautiful crown in the L ’s hand, and a royal diadem in the palm of your God. You will never again be called Abandoned, and your land will never again be called Desolation, for you will be called My Delight Is in Her, and your land will be called Married, because the L delights in you, and your land will be married. For just as a young man marries a virgin, your sons will marry you, and just as a bridegroom rejoices over a bride, your God will rejoice over you.

3 4

M: C:

Isaiah 62:1-5

God wants you to know joy. There are few occasions in life more joyful than a wedding. So the prophet Isaiah pictures the Church’s relationship with the Lord as an infinitely happy marriage.

The Word of the Lord. Thanks be to God. 4

Please open your hymnal for this psalm today. The psalms are found in the opening pages of the hymnal.

PSALM OF THE DAY

St. Paul teaches us that God wants us to have a life that is fuller than we could possibly imagine.

SECOND READING

Psalm 145

The vocalist will sing stanza 1 and 3. Please join in singing stanza 4.

Ephesians 3:14-21

For this reason I kneel before the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, from whom the entire family in heaven and on earth receives its name. 16I pray that, according to the riches of his glory, he would strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner self, 17so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. Then, being rooted and grounded in love, 18I pray that you would be able to comprehend, along with all the saints, how wide and long and high and deep his love is, 19and that you would be able to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, so that you may be filled to all the fullness of God. 15

Now to him, who is able, according to the power that is at work within us, to do infinitely more than we can ask or imagine, 21to him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever! Amen. M: C:

The Word of the Lord. Thanks be to God.

Please stand

The Gospel Acclamation points toward the words of the Gospel.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

John 1:14

Alleluia. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth. Alleluia.

GOSPEL

John 2:1-11

Three days later, there was a wedding in Cana of Galilee. Jesus’ mother was there. 2Jesus and his disciples were also invited to the wedding. 3

When the wine was gone, Jesus’ mother said to him, “They have no wine.” 4

Jesus said to her, “Woman, what does that have to do with you and me? My time has not come yet.”

Jesus increases the joy of those attending a wedding and saves the bridegroom from public shame. In this first of his miracles, he also begins to reveal himself as true God.

His mother said to the servants, “Do whatever he tells you.”

Six stone water jars, which the Jews used for ceremonial cleansing, were standing there, each holding twenty or thirty gallons. 7Jesus told them, “Fill the jars with water.” So they filled them to the brim. 8Then he said to them, “Now draw some out and take it to the master of the banquet.” And they did. 9

When the master of the banquet tasted the water that had now become wine, he did not know where it came from (though the servants who had drawn the water knew). The master of the banquet called the bridegroom 10and said to him, “Everyone serves the good wine first, and when the guests have had plenty to drink, then the cheaper wine. You saved the good wine until now!” 11

This, the beginning of his miraculous signs, Jesus performed in Cana of Galilee. He revealed his glory, and his disciples believed in him. M: C:

The Gospel of the Lord. Praise be to you, O Christ.

Please be seated

HYMN OF THE DAY

Jesus, Your Boundless Love to Me Christian Worship #714, stanzas 1, 2, and 4

The vocalist will sing stanza 1. Please join in singing stanzas 2 and 4.

SERMON

Ephesians 3:14-21 Jesus Brings Joy and Pleasure to Life

Please stand

The Nicene Creed was first developed in 325 at the First Council of Nicea. It was written to reaffirm the Biblical teaching of the divinity of Jesus, God’s Son. Like the Apostles’ and Athanasian Creeds, the Nicene Creed is a confession of what the Bible teaches.

CONFESSION OF FAITH

Nicene Creed

We believe in one God, the Father, the Almighty, maker of heaven and earth, of all that is, seen and unseen. We believe in one Lord, Jesus Christ, the only Son of God, eternally begotten of the Father, God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, not made, of one being with the Father. Through him all things were made. For us and for our salvation, he came down from heaven, was incarnate of the Holy Spirit and the Virgin Mary, and became truly human. For our sake he was crucified under Pontius Pilate. He suffered death and was buried. On the third day he rose again in accordance with the Scriptures. He ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead, and his kingdom will have no end. We believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life, who proceeds from the Father and the Son, who in unity with the Father and the Son is worshiped and glorified, who has spoken through the prophets. We believe in one holy Christian and apostolic Church. We acknowledge one baptism for the forgiveness of sins. We look for the resurrection of the dead and the life of the world to come. Amen.

Please be seated

PRAYER OF THE CHURCH M: Almighty God and Father, we thank you for all your mercies, especially for the gift of your Son, through whom you have revealed your gracious will. We praise you for the Holy Spirit and his working through the means of grace. C: Plant your Word in our hearts, and cause it to produce fruit in our lives. M: Strengthen and defend your Church, that by your Word and sacraments faith may grow and love toward all may increase. C: Support all who spread the light of your truth throughout the world. M: Keep our children in the grace of their baptisms. Enable their parents to train them in lives of faith. C: Raise up Christians to serve you in the ministry of the Word and in all godly walks of life. M: Preserve our nation in justice and honor. Guide and bless all who make, administer, and judge our laws. C: Give them wisdom that they may promote justice and hinder evil.

M: Let your blessing rest on planting and harvest, commerce and industry, medicine and science, the arts and culture. Protect all who travel, and care for those whose work is difficult and dangerous. C: Be with all who devote themselves to any useful task. M:

Comfort all who are in sorrow and need, sickness or adversity, (especially…). Remember those who suffer persecution for the faith. Have mercy on those for whom death draws near. Grant them your love, and take them into your tender care.

Hear us, Lord, as we pray in silence.

Silent prayer

We remember with thanksgiving those who have loved and served you, who now rest from their labors, (especially…). Console those who are mourning or living with sadness. Keep us in the true faith, and bring us at last to the joys of heaven.

M: C:

Grant us these things, Father, for the sake of Jesus, who died and rose again. Amen.

OFFERING

OFFERTORY:

Members of Grace respond to their Savior’s love with offerings that are given joyfully, generously, regularly, and in a way that is proportionate to how the Lord has blessed them. Their cheerful gifts support the mission and ministry of our congregation. If you are a guest today, please know that we do not expect you to contribute to our congregation’s work. However, if you would like to give an offering to the Lord in response to his love to you, we are happy to receive it and put it to work in God’s kingdom.

Of the Father’s Love Begotten John Carter

Please fill out the Friendship Register located in the red folder at the end of the row and pass it along. Thank you!

If you prefer, use your smart phone to give online by scanning this QR code.

These words are printed for your quiet meditation: This is he whom seers and sages sang of old with one accord, whom the voices of the prophets promised in their faithful word. Now he shines, the long-expected; let creation praise its Lord evermore and evermore.

Please stand

THE SACRAMENT

This setting of the Sanctus is not found in our new hymnals. Rather, it is the setting found in the Christian Worship Supplement (released in 2008), which is familiar to some Grace members and friends. In the weeks ahead, some of the new liturgical songs will be introduced in our worship services.

This ancient worship song is based on songs of praise recorded in Isaiah 6 and Psalm 118.

M: C:

The Lord be with you. And also with you.

M: C:

Lift up your hearts. We lift them up to the Lord.

M: C:

Let us give thanks to the Lord our God. It is right to give him thanks and praise.

It is truly good and right that we should at all times and in all places give you thanks, O Lord, holy Father, almighty and everlasting God, through Jesus Christ, our Lord, who lived among us as a human being and revealed his glory as your only Son, full of grace and truth. Therefore, with all the saints on earth and hosts of heaven, we praise your holy name and join their glorious song:

HOLY, HOLY, HOLY Please join in singing the response below following a brief introduction:

Sanctus

PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING

We give thanks to you, O God, through your dear Son, Jesus Christ, whom you sent to be our Savior, our Redeemer, and the messenger of your grace. Through him you made all things; in him you are well pleased. He is the incarnate Word, conceived by the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary. To fulfill your promises, he stretched out his hands on the cross and released from eternal death all who believe in you. As we remember Jesus’ death and resurrection, we thank you that you have gathered us together to receive your Son’s body and blood. Send us your Spirit, unite us as one, and strengthen our faith so that we may praise you in your Son, Jesus Christ. Through him, we glorify and honor you, O God our Father, with the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

LORD’S PRAYER C:

Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who sin against us. Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours now and forever. Amen.

Matthew 6 and Luke 11 record how Jesus taught his disciples to pray. We use his example prayer as part of our public worship, trusting that he will hear and answer our prayers.

WORDS OF INSTITUTION M:

Our Lord Jesus Christ, on the night he was betrayed, took bread; and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to his disciples, saying, “Take and eat; this is my ( ) body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me.” Then he took the cup, gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, “Drink from it, all of you; this is my ( ) blood of the new covenant, which is poured out for you for the forgiveness of sins. Do this, whenever you drink it, in remembrance of me.”

As he speaks the Words of Institution, the pastor both proclaims the words of Jesus to the congregation and sets apart the bread and wine for this special use. The sign of the cross reminds us of Christ’s death.

The peace of the Lord be with you always. Amen.

This setting is also from the Christian Worship Supplement (2008).

O CHRIST, LAMB OF GOD

Agnus Dei

Please be seated

PRAYER BEFORE COMMUNION (For private meditation) Lord, I am not worthy to be a guest at your holy table. But you are the friend of sinners, and you will not cast me out. This bread is your body, which bore my sins upon the tree. This wine is your blood, which purifies me from all guilt. At your invitation, I come rejoicing. Receive me, my Savior. Amen.

DISTRIBUTION

The Bible teaches that the Lord’s Supper is a unique communion of Christ and the individual believer as well as a coming together of people who hold to the same beliefs. Because of these Scriptural truths, we practice Member Communion at Grace. Those who are confirmed members of Wisconsin Synod congregations (WELS) are invited to receive the Lord’s Supper with us. If you are not a WELS member but have an interest in receiving Holy Communion, please speak with the pastor after church today or at another time. We are aware that there are a number of other teachings about Holy Communion, and we want it to be a blessing for you, so we would look forward to sharing with you what God says about this Sacrament. PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION (For private meditation)

Gluten-free communion wafers and grape juice are available for those who for health or medical reason require it. Please see page 14 for additional details. COMMUNION MUSIC: Jesus Loves Me Victor Labenske ‘Tis So Sweet and Blessings Jim Brickman

Thank you, Lord Jesus Christ, for nourishing me in this sacrament with your body and blood. You have given me forgiveness, life, and salvation. Let me always remain in you as a branch remains in the vine. Send me out in the power of your Spirit to live and work to your praise and glory. Amen.

Please stand

THANKSGIVING SPOKEN RESPONSES M: C:

The true body and blood of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ strengthen and preserve you in the true faith to life everlasting. Amen.

M: C:

Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his mercy endures forever.

M: C:

Whenever we eat this bread and drink this cup, we proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes.

Psalm 106:1

1 Corinthians 11:26

PRAYER OF THANKS M:

We give thanks, almighty God, that you have refreshed us with this saving gift. We pray that through it you will strengthen our faith in you and increase our love for one another. We ask this in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen. 12

The blessing of Aaron has been spoken over God’s people for over 3,500 years. The L said, “So I will put my name on [them], and I will bless them.” Numbers 6:27

BLESSING

The Lord bless you and keep you. The Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you. The Lord look on you with favor and ( ) give you peace.

Amen.

Please be seated

ANNOUNCEMENTS

CLOSING HYMN

Jesus Loves Me Christian Worship #584

POSTLUDE MUSIC: How Can I Keep from Singing? Victor Labenske

Those Assisting in Worship This Morning Preacher ..................................................................................... Pastor Ron Koehler Worship Leader ........................................................................... Pastor Tim Patoka Communion Assistants ............. Pastor Nathan Kassulke, Eric Hanson (10:00 AM) Accompanist ........................................................................................... Kathy Parra Vocalists............................ Nicole Peterson (7:45 AM), Naomi Kassulke (10:00 AM) Greeters..................................................................... Bill and Lisa Toben (10:00 AM) Communion Prep .............................. Karen Grorud, Elaine Goldie, Barb Tobiasson Sound and Recording Techs ................................. Jeremy Snavely, Danny Koehler Banner Committee .................. Nadine Rentschler, Jeanette O’Donald, Sandy Weir Copyright Information: Glory Be to God: Words by Stephen Starke © 2006 Northwestern Publishing House. Sanctus and Agnus Dei: Music by Kermit G. Moldenhauer © 2002 Northwestern Publishing House. Reprinted with permission under One License #A-710199. All rights reserved.

TODAY Distribution of Holy Communion This morning, Grace will offer Holy Communion by continuous distribution. Those who intend to commune will be invited to approach from the side aisle. The pastors and assistants will distribute the elements to households in turn. Pause to receive the wafer in your hand as the assistant speaks the words, “Take and eat the body of Christ.” Pause and take a cup as the pastor speaks the words, “Take and drink the blood of Christ.” Deposit the cup carefully in the receptacle provided, and return to your seat by the center aisle (those seated on the wings may walk to the back by the center aisle and back up the side aisle). When all the members who desire to commune have done so, a blessing will be shared with the congregation (which previously would have been spoken over the full “table” of those receiving the sacrament as they were assembled in front). We provide gluten-free communion wafers for those with wheat allergy, gluten-sensitivity, or celiac disease. These wafers are stored and handled separately to avoid cross-contamination. They are “bread” as Scripture requires and are consecrated along with the rest of the bread. For those requiring gluten-free wafers, please take one from the stand located at the front rail as you approach for communion. Simply hold it so that the pastor can see it at the time of distribution. Grape juice is available for those who for health or medical reason require it instead of wine. Please speak with a pastor about providing grape juice for you on future Sundays. To aid in your personal preparation for Holy Communion, a list of Christian Questions can be found on pages 295-296 in the hymnal. These were prepared by Martin Luther for those intending to receive the Sacrament. Prayers that may be used before and after receiving communion are found on pages 11 and 12 of this worship folder.

Altar Flowers

The flowers beautifying our altar today have been given by Nicole Weinstein in celebration of her son, Trevor’s, birthday! If you would like to provide flowers for the altar, please call (520-623-6633) or email (office@gracelutheransaz.org) the Grace Central Office to reserve a Sunday. There are many available dates! The cost for the 2 bouquets is $32.50. After the 10:00 AM service you may take the flowers home or leave them to be dropped off to one of our homebound members if a visit is being made.

Fellowship

Following the 10:00 AM service, you are invited to join us in the courtyard for coffee and snacks. We thank Nicole Weinstein, Ryan, and Trevor for hosting this week. There are MANY available Sundays, including January 23 and 30! Please sign up on the sheet in the Fellowship Hall.

Grace-Tucson Furnace

The furnace here at Grace-Tucson is inoperable at this time. We continue to work with contractors regarding a plan forward to replace the furnace. We have received our first bid for a replacement and hope to receive a few more soon. Unfortunately, it does appear that this project will take at least several weeks to complete. We thank you so much for your patience as we address the issue, and we apologize for the inconvenience. In the meantime, it may be a little chilly in the sanctuary during some of our church services. You are invited to bring an extra jacket or sweater to keep warm while you worship. 14

ANNOUNCEMENTS Sunday Morning Bible Study

God’s grace, his chosen people, the truth of Scripture, and the work God gives Christians—those are the topics we are discussing in our Sunday morning Bible study, at 9:00 AM in the Fellowship Hall. It is based on the short film, Here We Stand, and recalls Martin Luther’s stand at the Diet of Worms. We will consider what these truths mean for our faith. As we do, we can’t help but thank God for the blessings we have received from Luther’s bold stand five hundred years ago.

Devotional Books

Grace Moments and Meditations daily devotional books are available to pick up at either exit of church and in the Fellowship Hall. We pray these books are a blessing to you in your devotional life.

Monday Evening Services

Our 6:00 PM Monday evening worship services at Grace-Sahuarita have resumed and are scheduled to continue through the spring. This service provides another alternative for those who may not be able to worship on Sunday. Members who regularly worship at any Grace sites are welcome to make use of this weeknight service.

WELS Pastoral Institute: Monday and Tuesday

Three of Grace's pastors are taking part in a Pastoral Institute at Grace Lutheran Church in Glendale on January 17 and 18. Professor Bill Tackmeier from Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary is leading a class entitled "Preaching Christ from the Old Testament." We pray that God would bless this class for all who participate.

Service Opportunity: English Classes

Grace-Tucson’s English Classes have begun their spring semester and could always use your help! Show Christ’s love to those learning and improving their English skills by teaching classes (training provided), playing with children, partnering in conversation, or serving snacks. Classes are held in the Grace-Tucson Fellowship Hall on Monday and Tuesday evenings at 6:30 PM. If you are interested in learning more or serving, contact Pastor Patoka.

Church History Bible Study: Wednesday

Our Wednesday Church History Bible Study will be meeting on Wednesday and all are invited to join us! We are currently studying Pietism. Even if you haven’t attended this study before, this is an excellent time to join. We study together in the Grace-Tucson Fellowship Hall at 10:00 AM and repeat the same material at 7:00 PM. Join us for whichever time fits your schedule best!

Women’s Bible Study: No Class this Thursday

It might surprise some to know how highly God speaks of women in the Bible and how much he prizes them. The secular world certainly does not characterize Christianity and the Bible that way. Perhaps you have not always felt that women are precious to God or have been uncertain about the God-given roles for men and women. All ladies are invited to join Pastor Koehler for a comprehensive look at the many things God has to say about the importance and value of women and get to know some of the Bible’s notable women. This class, The Precious Position of a Woman of God, will meet at 9:00 AM in the Grace-Tucson Fellowship Hall on January 27 and then weekly, beginning February 10. 15

UPCOMING OPPORTUNITIES Ladies’ Fellowship Group: January 20

The Ladies’ Fellowship Group will be meeting THIS Thursday, January 20, at 10:15 AM in the Grace-Tucson Fellowship Hall. They will be learning flower arranging from Joyce Long and making arrangements for themselves and our homebound members. All materials will be provided thanks to a Thrivent Action Team. Please bring snacks or a sack lunch. Ladies from ALL sites are welcome to join in the fun! If you have not RSVP’d but would still like to attend, please give Joyce Long a call at (520)405-5133.

Memorial Service for Ruth Hoefer: January 22

The Lord called Grace member, Ruth Hoefer, home to heaven on December 26. A memorial service will be held this Saturday, January 22, beginning at 10:30 AM in the Grace-Tucson sanctuary. A lunch will follow the service.

Men's Conference in Phoenix: January 22

The first annual Arizona/California Men of His Word conference will be held this Saturday, January 22, 2022, in Phoenix, AZ. The conference theme is "More than Conquerors." Please join us for a day of fellowship, encouragement, worship, and learning. Breakfast and lunch are included. A keynote speaker kicks off the conference, and you'll be able to choose from 8 different breakout sessions. The conference is open to all men who would like to grow spiritually, be inspired by God's Word, and enjoy fellowship with Christian brothers from the Southwest. For more information, or to register (by TODAY) visit MenofHisWord.org/2022-phoenix.html.

TCM Paintball Outing: January 22

Feel the thrill of combat and get a paint-filled makeover at TCM’s paintballing outing! Tucson Campus Ministry is hosting a group of your college-aged friends at Tucson’s locally-owned Disruptive Paintball this Saturday, January 22. No experience or equipment is necessary to come along and have fun. We will meet at 1:00 PM at the Student Center before carpooling to the paintball field. We will return to the Student Center by 6:00 PM. RSVPs are appreciated. To RSVP or reserve a ride, contact Campus Pastor Tim by Thursday, January 20. This is open to all college-aged adults.

All-Site Chili Cook-Off: Postponed

The all-site Chili Cook-Off previously scheduled for February 5 at Grace-Benson has, unfortunately, been postponed. We will work to reschedule this event!

Ladies’ Valentine’s Tea: February 19

Ladies from all Grace sites are invited to attend the Women of Grace Valentine’s Tea scheduled for Saturday, February 19 in the Grace-Tucson Fellowship Hall. Watch for future announcements about table hostesses, food sign-up, and kitchen help. Plan now to join us for this popular and fun event!

ANNOUNCEMENTS ACSTO and Tuition Tax Credits

The Arizona Christian School Tuition Organization (ACSTO) exists to provide tuition scholarships to students at Christian schools by receiving tax credit donations. ACSTO works closely with our WELS schools in Arizona, including Redeemer Lutheran School in Tucson and our area Lutheran high school, Arizona Lutheran Academy (ALA) in Phoenix. We currently have 15 members of Grace that attend Redeemer Lutheran School and 4 members that attend ALA. The support of ACSTO, which allows many families to afford the Lutheran education that they want for their children, is made possible by Arizona residents who make donations. In fact, specific children may even be recommended to receive a scholarship from your donation. Arizona law also allows you to receive the full amount, up to certain limits, as a tax credit on your state income taxes. This means that you can direct money that you would otherwise pay to the state to support a cause that interests you. You can donate to Lutheran education without spending any extra money. We believe that if every eligible member will use the Tuition Tax Credit to support this program, we can fully fund tuition for all 19 of our members currently at our Lutheran schools in Arizona and possibly others in the future. This support not only helps these families, but it also benefits Grace. Grace currently offers a $1000 scholarship to students at Lutheran schools for each school year. If the tuition for these 19 students can be fully funded through ACSTO scholarships, it would ensure that the scholarship fund could continue to help students in future years. ACSTO has an excellent video explaining the tax credit law in Arizona, and you can view that video on their website at www.ACSTO.org. Please keep this opportunity in mind as you prepare to file your 2021 Arizona state taxes and make use of it as you are able! Donations made prior to April 15, 2022 can still be applied to your 2021 taxes. If you have questions about this program, please ask. The Grace pastors and the parents of our Lutheran school students know it well, are eager to help, and greatly appreciate your support! You can also contact Jeff Weinstein at (520)909-7649 with questions. Jeff is a long-time supporter of Christian education and is on staff at ACSTO.

Church Library

Did you know that Grace has a library from which you can borrow a wide variety of books? If it has been a while since you’ve visited our library or if you have never been in there, now is a great time to stop by! Our library is located at the west end of the Fellowship Hall. Our new librarian, Katrina McClure, has reorganized all the books and they are ready for you to check out! You will find check-out instructions on the wall above the desk. If you have previously checked out books and forgotten to return them, please drop them on the desk in the library when you are finished. Questions can be directed to Katrina at Library@GraceLutheranSAZ.org or catch her at church on Sunday.

This schedule is subject to change. Please watch your email for the most up-to-date information or call the church office at (520)623-6633 if you have questions.

This Week at Grace January 16 - January 23 TUCSON Today Worship Services with communion..................7:45a & 10:00a Children’s Bible Hour ...................................................... 8:45a Adult Bible Study: Here We Stand.................................. 9:00a Grow in Grace Class....................................................... 9:00a Lifeliners (High School) Bible Study ............................... 9:00a Fellowship following 10:00a service ........................................ NO TCM Bible Study (resumes January 23) Monday—Grace Central Office Closed English Classes .............................................................. 6:30p Tuesday English Classes .............................................................. 6:30p Wednesday Midweek Bible Study: Church History .............10:00a & 7:00p

SAHUARITA Today Adult Bible Study: Book of Judges ................................. 9:00a Children’s Sunday School .............................................. 9:00a Worship Service with communion ................................ 10:00a

Monday Worship Service with communion .................................. 6:00p Wednesday Midweek Bible Study: Philippians ................................ 10:00a Next Sunday Adult Bible Study: Book of Judges ................................. 9:00a Children’s Sunday School .............................................. 9:00a Worship Service ........................................................... 10:00a

Thursday NO Women’s Bible Study Ladies’ Fellowship Group ............................................. 10:15a Handbell Choir ................................................................ 5:30p Worship Choir ................................................................. 6:45p

VAIL Today Children’s Sunday School .............................................. 9:00a Adult Bible Study: Genesis ............................................. 9:00a Worship Service ........................................................... 10:00a Fellowship following worship with communion.........................

Saturday Ruth Hoefer Memorial Service ..................................... 10:30a TCM Paintballing ............................................................ 1:00p

Thursday Midweek Bible Study at Civano: Lord’s Prayer .............. 6:00p

Next Sunday Worship Services .............................................7:45a & 10:00a Children’s Bible Hour ...................................................... 8:45a Adult Bible Study: Here We Stand.................................. 9:00a NO Grow in Grace Class Lifeliners (High School) Bible Study ............................... 9:00a Fellowship following 10:00a service ........................................ TCM Bible Study ............................................................. 7:00p BENSON Today Worship Service with communion .................................. 7:30a Bible Study following worship: Galatians Wednesday Midweek Bible Study: Psalms ...................................... 10:00a Next Sunday Worship Service .............................................................. 7:30a Bible Study following worship: Galatians .................................

Next Sunday Children’s Sunday School .............................................. 9:00a Adult Bible Study: Genesis ............................................. 9:00a Worship Service ........................................................... 10:00a Fellowship following worship .................................................... ONLINE Today Adult Bible Study: Here We Stand ..................................9:00a Worship Service (Tucson and Sahuarita) .................... 10:00a Next Sunday Adult Bible Study: Here We Stand ................................. 9:00a Worship Services (Tucson and Sahuarita) .................. 10:00a OFF-SITE EVENT Monday-Tuesday Pastoral Institute at Grace, Glendale ....................................... Saturday Men of His Word Conference in Phoenix ........................7:30a

Stay Up to Date

The fastest and easiest way to keep Grace members and friends informed about what is happening at our four sites is through our weekly email update. This email is sent every Friday and at other times when special announcements are necessary. If you have not been receiving this email, but would like to, please email the church office at office@gracelutheransaz.org and request to be added to our email list.

One Church. Four Sites. Proclaiming the love of Jesus in Southern Arizona since 1911. Grace-Tucson and Central Office

Grace-Sahuarita

830 N. 1st Avenue, Tucson, AZ 85719 (520)623-6633 office@gracelutheransaz.org

75 W. Sahuarita Rd, Sahuarita, AZ 85629 (520)578-3538

Pastor Ronald G. Koehler III

revrah@gracelutheransaz.org

revrgk3@gracelutheransaz.org

Pastor Ryan A. Heiman Child Learning Center

revnpk@gracelutheransaz.org

(520) 848-4630 reception@gracelutheransaz.org www.GraceLutheranSahuaritaCLC.com

Pastor Timothy L. Patoka (Campus Ministry)

Director—Laura Heiman

Pastor Nathan P. Kassulke

revtlp@gracelutheransaz.org

Grace-Benson 451 W. Duane St., Benson, AZ 85602

Grace-Vail Worshipping at Esmond Station Elementary 9400 S. Atterbury Wash Way, Tucson, AZ 85747

Pastor Seth A. Scheuerlein

director@gracelutheransaz.org

Bible-Based Counselor—Cinda Drescher cinda@gracelutheransaz.org (520)405-3286

Administrative Assistant—Debbie Koehler assistant@gracelutheransaz.org

revsas@gracelutheransaz.org

Worship Coordinator—Beth Kassulke

Office at Civano

music@gracelutheransaz.org

10501 E. Seven Generations Way, Tucson, AZ 85747 (520)848-4631

Office Assistant—Cora Stuhr

Prayer Group—Laura Hodgson

office@gracelutheransaz.org

prayergroup@gracelutheransaz.org

Grace Lutheran Church is a member of the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod (WELS), a group of nearly 400,000 men, women, and children in nearly 1,300 congregations across the United States and Canada united by a common faith in Christ's saving love. We are committed to a common calling—encouraging each other in our faith and sharing God's gift of a Savior with the rest of the world.

For more information about our synod and what we believe visit: www.wels.net