1-7-24 Grace-Tucson Worship Folder

THE EPIPHANY OF OUR LORD

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7, 2024

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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. LARGE PRINT worship folders are available at the entrances for those who desire them.

Today we are using elements from the Christian Worship (2021) hymnal. You will find these blue 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. A vocalist will aid in our singing and will be recorded for our audio disks and video livestreaming.

There is no cost to park in our parking lot during Sunday morning worship services. If you receive a citation by mistake, please let our office staff know so it can be cleared.

OUR WORSHIP SERIES—GOOD NEWS OF GREAT JOY We live in a world with a 24-hour news cycle. Between the countless cable networks or online sources or social media posts, news is flying at us constantly. Most of it seems awful—bad news after more bad news.

Our hearts grow heavy. Our minds grow anxious.

The world is starving for good news. And that is exactly what we get at Christmas. On that first Christmas Eve, the angel told the shepherds, “I bring you good news of great joy” (Luke 2:10). News is not advice. The angel had not come to give advice about how to cope in a messed-up world. News is simply a report of facts.

The angel reported a fact—the birth of One who would make everything right again. This child would remove all our fears and fill our hearts with joy.

Our worship has followed this path: Christmas Eve Morning Christmas Eve Candlelight Christmas Day First Sunday after Christmas Epiphany of Our Lord

God Keeps His Promise A Savior Has Been Born to Us God Became Man Peace on Earth For All People

THEME FOR THIS MORNING—FOR ALL PEOPLE On Christmas Eve the angel told the shepherds, “I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people” (Luke 2:10). One wonders if those words struck those Jewish shepherds as odd. For centuries, God had given special attention to one nation—Israel. There were Jewish religious leaders who taught that only members of that special people would be saved. Not according to the Christmas angel! The birth of the Savior was good news for all people.

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Today we celebrate the Epiphany of our Lord. Epiphany comes from a Greek word meaning “reveal.” When the Savior was born, he was first revealed to Israelites: the shepherds, Simeon, Anna. But today, the Lord miraculously guides foreigners across countless miles, so the Savior could be revealed to them as well. How did the magi respond? “They were overjoyed” (Matthew 2:10). Epiphany is sometimes known as “The Gentiles’ Christmas.” We Gentiles (non-Jews) rejoice in the good news that this Jewish baby is not just the Savior of Jews. He is for all people—the Savior of the world.

+ ORDER OF WORSHIP + WELCOME

Joy Has Dawned Christian Worship 352 The People That in Darkness Sat Brian L. Hanson Jesus Shall Reign Cindy Berry

Please stand

INVOCATION Minister: In the name of the Father and of the Son (+) and of the Holy Spirit.

Congregation: Amen.

HYMN RESPONSE—Jesus Shall Reign Where’er the Sun

PRESERVICE MUSIC:

The words of the invocation remind us that the God we meet and worship is the true and triune God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

Christian Worship 380

DIALOGUE FOR EPIPHANY In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters. And God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light.

Genesis 1:1-4

God saw that the light was good, and he separated the light from the darkness.

When the woman saw that the fruit of the tree was good for food and pleasing to the eye, and also desirable for gaining wisdom, she took some and ate it. She also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it.

Genesis 3:6

See, darkness covers the earth and thick darkness is over the peoples.

Isaiah 60:2

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Isaiah 9:2, 6

The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned. For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

Isaiah 60:1

Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen upon us.

Psalm 27:2-3

When the wicked advance against me to devour me, it is my enemies and my foes who will stumble and fall. Though an army besiege me, my heart will not fear; though war break out against me, even then I will be confident.

Psalm 27:1

The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear?

John 1:1-5

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind.

The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.

John 8:12

Matthew 2:2

Jesus said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life.”

We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.

HYMN RESPONSE—Jesus Shall Reign Where’er the Sun

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Christian Worship 380

PRAYER OF THE DAY The Lord be with you.

And also with you.

Let us pray.

Lord God, by the leading of a star, you once made known to the nations your one and only Son. Guide us, also, who know him now by faith to come at last to the perfect joy of your heavenly glory; through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.

Amen.

HYMN RESPONSE—Jesus Shall Reign Where’er the Sun

Christian Worship 380

Text: Isaac Watts, 1674–1748, abr., alt. Tune: attr. John C. Hatton, 1710–1793. Text and tune: Public domain.

Please be seated

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+ THE WORD + God compels the heathen magician Balaam to prophesy that out of the nation of Israel would come one who would shine like a star for all peoples to see.

FIRST READING 15

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Numbers 24:15-17

Balaam took up his oracle and said: The declaration of Balaam son of Beor, the declaration of the man whose eye is open, the declaration of the one who hears the words of God, who receives knowledge from the Most High, who sees the vision of the Almighty, who is falling down, but his eyes are wide open: I see him, but not now.

I behold him, but not near.

A star will come out of Jacob.

A scepter will rise up out of Israel.

The Word of the Lord.

Thanks be to God.

Paul writes about his passion for sharing the good news with all people.

HYMN—What Child Is This

Christian Worship 344

SECOND READING

Romans 11:13-15, 28-32

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I am speaking to you Gentiles. For as long as I am an apostle to the Gentiles, I am going to speak highly of my ministry. 14 Perhaps I may make my own people jealous, and so save some of them. 15 For if their rejection meant the reconciliation of the world, what does their acceptance mean other than the dead coming to life?

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In regard to the gospel, they are enemies for your sake. But, in regard to election, they are especially dear for the sake of the patriarchs, 29 because God’s gracious gifts and call are not regretted. 30 For just as you were once disobedient to God, but now have been shown mercy due to their disobedience, 31 so also now they have become disobedient, so that by the mercy shown to you they may be shown mercy too. 32 For God imprisoned all in disobedience so that he may show mercy to all.

The Word of the Lord.

Thanks be to God.

Please stand

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GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

Matthew 2:2

The Gospel Acclamation points toward the words of the Gospel.

Matthew 2:1-12

Magi from the east are miraculously led to their Savior, and they worship him.

Refrain (ALL):

Vocalist: Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews?

We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.

Refrain (ALL) Tune: © 1982 GIA Publications, Inc. Used by permission: OneLicense no. 710199.

GOSPEL 1

After Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea, when Herod was king, Wise Men from the east came to Jerusalem. They asked, 2 “Where is he who has been born King of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.” 3 When King Herod heard this, he was alarmed, and all Jerusalem with him. 4 He gathered together all the people’s chief priests and experts in the law. He asked them where the Christ was to be born. 5 They said to him, “In Bethlehem of Judea, because this was written through the prophet: 6

You, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are certainly not least among the rulers of Judah: because out of you will come a ruler, who will shepherd my people, Israel.”

Micah 5:2

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Then Herod secretly summoned the Wise Men and found out from them exactly when the star had appeared. 8 He sent them to Bethlehem and said, “Go and search carefully for the child. When you find him, report to me, so that I may also go and worship him.”

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After listening to the king, they went on their way. Then the star they had seen when it rose went ahead of them, until it stood still over the place where the child was. 10 When they saw the star, they rejoiced with overwhelming joy. 11 After they went into the house and saw the child with Mary, his mother, they bowed down and worshipped him. Then they opened their treasures and offered him gifts: gold, frankincense, and myrrh. 12 Since they had been warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they went back to their own country by another route.

The Gospel of the Lord.

Praise be to you, O Christ.

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Please be seated

HYMN OF THE DAY—Joy Has Dawned

SERMON

Christian Worship 352

Matthew 2:1-12 Wise Ones Worship Jesus

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.

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Please be seated

+ INSTALLATION OF MINISTRY BOARD + Those being installed approach the altar.

Dear friends, In Holy Baptism, our Lord Jesus Christ set you free from sin and death and made you members of his body, the church. Through Word and sacrament, the Holy Spirit has nurtured your faith and increased your love.

You have been elected to serve our Lord on behalf of this congregation. The Lord has entrusted you with responsibilities that you are to carry out according to his Word.

St. Paul wrote concerning service in the church: “We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully.”

St. Paul spoke to all who serve the Savior: “It is required that those who have been given a trust must prove faithful.” The Lord has promised to be with you and give you the gifts you will need to carry out the work entrusted to you.

Romans 12:6-8

1 Corinthians 4:2

As servants of Jesus Christ and workers in this congregation, you are to set aside time for study of the Scriptures so that you may grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. You are to strive to be an example of Christian faith and life so that others may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.

So that the congregation may be assured of your willingness to serve, I ask you in the presence of God and this congregation: Will you diligently and faithfully carry out the work entrusted to you, according to the ability which God gives you? If so, answer: I will, and I ask God to help me.

I will, and I ask God to help me.

INSTALLATION I install you as members of the Ministry Board at Grace Lutheran Church in the name of the Father and of the (+) Son and of the Holy Spirit.

The Lord pour out on you his Holy Spirit for the work you have been called to do that you may faithfully carry out all your duties and responsibilities with the Word of God as your confidence and guide.

The minister shakes the hand of each Ministry Board member, addressing him by name and title.

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The minister speaks to the congregation:

Brothers and sisters in Christ, I urge you to regard these fellow believers as servants of Jesus Christ and God’s gifts to his church. Pray for them and support them in their service so that believers may be strengthened in faith and many others may come to know the Savior and the eternal hope he gives.

PRAYER Let us pray.

Gracious God, you bless your church through the willing work and special gifts of so many people. We ask you to send your Holy Spirit to the servants we are installing today that they may carry out their duties with diligence, wisdom, and humility.

Encourage them to seek guidance from your Word and lead them to pray for your direction. Help them to be good examples to others and support the work of the gospel ministry in this congregation. Keep them in your care and encourage them by your grace; through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Amen.

BLESSING The Lord bless you and make your service a blessing to others.

The minister thanks those who served in the past year:

We sincerely thank those who in the past year have served the Lord and his people with their time and abilities. May the Lord graciously bless you and those you have served.

Ministry Board members return to their places.

Brief intercessory prayers may be added in a fitting place.

PRAYER OF THE CHURCH Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God and Mary’s Son, in the fullness of time you came into our world to save us from sin and death.

You ushered in the day of grace so long foretold.

Beloved Son of the Father, revered by the Magi, baptized by John, you came preaching and teaching, healing and comforting, forgiving and encouraging: You brought the light of life to those walking in darkness, and the joy of salvation to those doomed to death.

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Prince of peace, shine like a beacon for us and the people of our world. Let the good news of salvation be heard in the remotest corners of the earth. Open our own lips to speak your name to those around us who still live without faith or hope: Arouse us and our missionaries to flood the world with the light of your gospel.

Lord of the Church, let your peace rule our hearts that we may use our gifts to serve you and each other in willing gratitude and joy. Watch over our loved ones near and far, that they may remember your love and rejoice in your salvation. Strengthen the faith of the sick and the disheartened. Give hope to those in despair and comfort those who mourn.

Be gracious to all and lead us to reflect your love in everything we say and do.

Hear us, Lord, as we pray in silence.

Silent prayer

Finally, bring us and all your believers to the heavenly home where we will stand in the full light of your glory and with all your saints and angels sing the everlasting song of triumph.

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

As with Gladness Men of Old Anne Krentz Organ

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

Please stand

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+ THE SACRAMENT + PREFACE The Lord be with you.

And also with you.

Lift up your hearts.

We lift them up to the Lord.

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

Text: Michael D. Schultz © 2021 Northwestern Publishing House. Used by permission: OneLicense no. 710199. Tune: Friedrich K. Anthes. Public domain.

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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 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.

WORDS OF INSTITUTION 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.”

The peace of the Lord be with you always.

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.

As he speaks the Words of Institution, the minister 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.

Amen.

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O CHRIST, LAMB OF GOD

Agnus Dei

Text: Michael D. Schultz © 2021 Northwestern Publishing House. Used by permission: OneLicense no. 710199. Tune: Latin, 15th cent. Public domain.

Please be seated

DISTRIBUTION Gluten-free communion wafers and grape juice are available for those who for health or medical reason require it. Please see page 15.

COMMUNION MUSIC: What Child Is This? and Winter Peace Jim Brickman Where Shepherds Lately Knelt Christian Worship 345 Love Has Come Christian Worship 364 He, Whose Praise the Shepherds Sounded Christian Worship 351

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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 BEFORE COMMUNION (For private meditation) Lord Jesus, you have invited me to come and receive your holy Sacrament. I believe that in the bread and wine you give me your true body and blood to eat and drink. Forgive my sins and nourish my faith through this precious meal. I long for the comfort that comes with your promises; I yearn for the assurance of your faithful love. Bless me now as I receive you by faith. Amen.

PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION (For private meditation) Thank you, dear Savior, for nourishing my faith with the Sacrament of your body and blood. Lift my heart with your forgiveness, renew my confidence in your grace, empower my love for others, and lead me to long for the eternal banquet of heaven. Amen.

+ THANKSGIVING + Please stand

SPOKEN RESPONSES Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good;

Psalm 106:1

his mercy endures forever.

1 Corinthians 11:26

Whenever we eat this bread and drink this cup,

we proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes.

CLOSING PRAYER O God the Father, source of all goodness, in your loving-kindness you sent your Son to share our humanity. We thank you that through him you have given us pardon and peace in this Sacrament. We also pray that you will not forsake us but will rule our hearts and minds by your Holy Spirit so that we willingly serve you day after day; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.

Amen.

The blessing of Aaron has been spoken over God’s people for over 3,500 years. The L said, “In this way they 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 POSTLUDE MUSIC:

CLOSING HYMN—As with Gladness Men of Old

Christian Worship 372

Joy to the World Jim Brickman

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TODAY Holy Communion 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.

Today we are distributing Holy Communion in “tables.” The ushers will direct members forward by the side aisles. Groups of about ten will be guided toward the center aisle and will line up to receive the elements together. After each table communes, the pastor will offer a blessing and dismiss the group to return by the center aisle.

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.

Altar Flowers

The flowers beautifying our altar this morning were given by Tyler and Taylor Gross in thanks to Grace and Pastor Kassulke for officiating over their wedding service and ceremony.

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. Upcoming available dates are January 14, 21, and 28. 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 worship service this morning, you are invited to join us in the courtyard and Fellowship Hall for drinks and snacks. We thank Sally Littau for hosting this week.

Upcoming available dates are January 14 and 21. Please sign up on the sheet in the Fellowship Hall.

Those Assisting in Worship This Morning Preacher ........................................................................................................Pastor Nathan Kassulke Worship Leader ..................................................................................................... Pastor Tim Patoka Accompanist .................................................................................................................... Kathy Parra Vocalist ................................................................. Beth Kassulke (7:45 AM) Naomi Kassulke (10:00) Greeters ............................................................... Jeanette O’Donald, Nadine Rentschler (10:00 AM) Ushers.......................................................................................... Rusty King, Vic Thornton (7:45 AM) Jon Dongoske, Dylan Guenther, Ferdie Kramm, Rick Street (10:00 AM) Communion Prep ........................................................ Karen Grorud, Elaine Goldie, Barb Tobiasson Sound and Recording Techs ................................. Jeremy Snavely, Danny Koehler, Sam Kassulke Banner Committee ............................................ Nadine Rentschler, Jeanette O’Donald, Sandy Weir Acknowledgements: Scripture readings are taken from The Holy Bible, Evangelical Heritage Version® (EHV®) © 2018 The Wartburg Project. All rights reserved. wartburgproject.org.

Created by Christian Worship: Service Builder © 2024 Concordia Publishing House. Software distributed in partnership with Northwestern Publishing House.

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ANNOUNCEMENTS God’s blessings on those being installed today in areas of leadership at Grace!

2024 MINISTRY BOARD President .................................................................................................................................... 1 Eric Hanson Vice President ......................................................................................................................... 4 Jeff Weinstein Secretary .............................................................................................................................. 1 Jeremy Snavely Financial Manager................................................................................................................ 1 Jay Wiechmann Tucson Site Elder.................................................................................................................... 1 Paul Kassulke Sahuarita Site Elder ................................................................................................................. 2 Chad Rickling Benson Site Elder ..................................................................................................................... 3 Bill Warskow Vail Site Elder ................................................................................................................................ 4 Ron Silver Child Learning Center Board Chairman ................................................................................. 2 Dave Neujahr 1

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Installed at Grace-Tucson this morning.

Installed at Grace-Sahuarita this morning.

Installed at Grace-Benson this morning.

Installed at Grace-Vail this morning.

Sunday Morning Bible Study

On Sunday mornings we have been studying the book of 1 John under the theme, “Living in the Light of God’s Love.” 1 John is a brief book nestled into the back of the Bible, but it is full of wisdom for Christians living in the light and joy of God’s love for them. We meet at 9:00 AM in the Fellowship Hall. If you have not made Sunday morning Bible study a part of your routine, this would be a great time to start!

Divine Call Declined

Pastor Koehler appreciated your prayers, discussions of ministry, and your counsel over the last weeks as he deliberated the Call extended to him by Immanuel Lutheran Church in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan. After considering where he feels he fits best at this time, he has declined that Call and will continue serving the Lord and you here at Grace. Please offer prayers on behalf of the people at Immanuel who await a pastor to serve them.

Monday Evening Service at Grace-Sahuarita

An evening worship service is held at Grace-Sahuarita on Monday evenings at 6:00 PM beginning tomorrow, January 8, through March 18. 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.

Church History Bible Study: Wednesday

Our Wednesday Church History class resumes this week! We will be learning about the founding of the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod. Even if you haven’t attended this class 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 is Back!

“I have unmet needs and expectations.” “I’ve been hurt and can’t let go of the anger.” “I struggle with wanting instant gratification.” “My faith has been tested with financial challenges and blessings.” “I’ve noticed that I’m not as sensitive to immoral things as I used to be.” Does any of this sound familiar?

Pastor Koehler will lead a Bible study on Our Christian Response to Blessings and Challenges on Thursday mornings at 9:00 AM in the Fellowship Hall. Make plans to join him for what promises to be a helpful and faith-strengthening study each week—and invite a friend to join you!

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ANNOUNCEMENTS Funeral Service Planning Opportunity: Friday

Have you ever considered what comfort from God’s Word you want family and friends to hear when the Lord calls you home to heaven? What if you could suggest some readings or hymns for your funeral service? Are you interested in planning some things now so that it will be easier on your family and the pastor when that time comes? No matter your age, you are invited to meet with Pastor Koehler for a Funeral Service Planning session. The class will be held in the office conference room this Friday, January 12, at 9:00 AM. Please reserve your spot ASAP by calling the church office (520-623-6633) or emailing pastor at RevRGK3@GraceLutheranSAZ.org.

Lifeliners Outing: January 13

Grace's high school youth group, the Lifeliners, is going paintballing on Saturday, January 13, at Desert Fox Paintball (9651 S Houghton Rd 85747) from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Equipment, paintballs, refreshments, and rides will be provided. This outing is free for all Lifeliners and their invited friends. Interested teens need to RSVP to Pastor Patoka by January 10.

Ladies’ Fellowship Group: January 18

The Ladies’ Fellowship Group will meet at 11:00 AM on Thursday, January 18, at Scordato’s Pizzeria (4911 N. Stone Ave.) for lunch. Please contact Lois Thornton at (520)323-8772 or vthornto2@gmail.com with any questions. Ladies from all Grace sites are welcome to join in the fun!

Please RSVP to Lois by January 16.

Men of His Word Conference: January 20, 2024

WELS men of all ages are invited to this one-day event on Saturday, January 20, 2024 at the Desert Willow Conference Center in Phoenix. The theme of this year’s conference is “Built to Serve” based on Galatians 5:13. Keynote speaker Mark Neumann will speak on “Built to Serve in Every Walk of Life.” Breakout session topics include “The Man God is Building You to Be” (for teens and young adults), “Built to Serve While Working in an Unchristian Workplace,” “Built to Serve by Leading in Your Congregation,” and four more. You may register and find all the information about the conference at MenOfHisWord.org/phoenix. Please register by January 14.

Grace will plan to assist with carpooling arrangements for those who are interested.

All-Site Chili Cook-Off: January 27

This year’s all-site Chili Cook-Off will be held on Saturday, January 27, beginning at noon at our Benson location. Perfect your best chili recipe for the chance to be named the favorite!

You may also bring a side dish or a dessert to share. All are welcome to enjoy this fun event!

WELS Tucson Campus Ministry

TCM has an app for college-aged adults! Search “welstcm” to download it and learn how to join its spring semester activities like weekly Bible study in the TCM Student Center, weekly casual discussion on the UA campus, quarterly outings, and monthly events. Contact Campus Pastor Tim (welstcm@welstcm.com) for questions.

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

This Week at Grace January 7 - January 14 TUCSON Today Worship Services with communion ................. 7:45a & 10:00a Children’s Bible Hour ...................................................... 8:45a Adult Bible Study: Living in the Light of God’s Love ...... 9:00a Grow in Grace Class (Office Conference Room) ........... 9:00a Lifeliners (High School group) Bible Study..................... 9:00a Fellowship following worship ...................................................

Tuesday Weekly Pastors’ Meeting ................................................ 9:00a English Classes .............................................................. 6:30p Wednesday Midweek Bible Study: Church History ............. 10:00a & 7:00p Thursday Women’s Bible Study ..................................................... 9:00a Our Christian Response to Blessings & Challenges Handbells ........................................................................ 5:30p Worship Choir ................................................................. 6:45p Friday Funeral Service Planning Session ................................. 9:00a

Saturday Lifeliners Paintball Outing ............................................. 10:00a Next Sunday, January 14 Worship Services ............................................ 7:45a & 10:00a Children’s Bible Hour ...................................................... 8:45a Adult Bible Study: Living in the Light of God’s Love ...... 9:00a Grow in Grace Class (Office Conference Room) ........... 9:00a Lifeliners (High School group) Bible Study..................... 9:00a Fellowship following worship ...................................................

ONLINE Today Adult Bible Study (Tucson) ............................................. 9:00a Worship Services (Sahuarita & Tucson) ...................... 10:00a

Next Sunday, January 14 Adult Bible Study (Tucson) ............................................. 9:00a Worship Services (Sahuarita & Tucson) ...................... 10:00a OFF-SITE EVENTS Monday Pastors’ Circuit Meeting at Grace, Safford ..................... 9:00a Thursday TCM Bible Discussion on UA Campus ........................... 7:00p

Stay Up to Date

VAIL Today Adult Bible Study: The Gospel in the Psalms ................. 9:00a Youth Bible Study ........................................................... 9:00a Worship Service with communion................................. 10:00a Thursday Adult Bible Study: Sanctification ..................................... 6:30p Next Sunday, January 14 Adult Bible Study: The Gospel in the Psalms ................. 9:00a Youth Bible Study ........................................................... 9:00a Worship Service ............................................................ 10:00a BENSON Today Worship Service with communion................................... 7:30a Adult Bible Study: 1 Corinthians ..................................... 8:45a Wednesday Bible Study: The Large Catechism ............................... 10:00a Next Sunday, January 14 Worship Service .............................................................. 7:30a Adult Bible Study: 1 Corinthians ..................................... 8:45a SAHUARITA Today Adult Bible Study: God’s Will Is... ................................... 9:00a Children’s Sunday School ............................................... 9:00a Worship Service with communion................................. 10:00a NO Adult Choir practice (resumes January 28) Monday Worship Service with communion................................... 6:00p Tuesday Grow in Grace Class....................................................... 4:30p Wednesday Midweek Bible Study: ................................................... 10:00a Why Are There Different Churches?

Saturday Time Out for Moms ......................................................... 9:00a Next Sunday, January 14 Adult Bible Study: God’s Will Is... ................................... 9:00a Children’s Sunday School ............................................... 9:00a Worship Service ............................................................ 10:00a NO Adult Choir practice (resumes January 28)

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 Grace Central Office at office@gracelutheransaz.org and request to 18 be added to our email list.

One Church. Four Locations.

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 revrgk3@gracelutheransaz.org

Pastor Nathan P. Kassulke revnpk@gracelutheransaz.org

Pastor Timothy L. Patoka (Campus Ministry)

Pastor Ryan A. Heiman

revrah@gracelutheransaz.org

Child Learning Center

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

Director—Laura Heiman

director@gracelutheransaz.org

revtlp@gracelutheransaz.org

Assistant Director—Jen Rickling

Grace-Benson and Grace-Vail

Child Learning Center Mission Teachers

Benson

451 W. Duane St., Benson, AZ 85602

Vail

jrickling@gracelutheransaz.org

Chris Leathers, 1-Year Olds cleathers@gracelutheransaz.org

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

Sam Anthon, 2-Year Olds

Pastor Seth A. Scheuerlein

Vicki Smith, 3-Year Olds

revsas@gracelutheransaz.org

vsmith@gracelutheransaz.org

Office at Civano

Theresa Pratt, Preschool

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

Prayer Group—Laura Hodgson prayergroup@gracelutheransaz.org

santhon@gracelutheransaz.org

tpratt@gracelutheransaz.org

Katie Patoka, After School Care kpatoka@gracelutheransaz.org

Bible-Based Counselor—Cinda Drescher

Worship Coordinator—Beth Kassulke

cinda@gracelutheransaz.org (520)581-4714

music@gracelutheransaz.org

Administrative Assistant—Debbie Koehler

Office Assistant—Cora Stuhr

assistant@gracelutheransaz.org

office@gracelutheransaz.org

www.wels.net

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.