11-20-22 Grace-Tucson Worship Folder

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. LARGE PRINT worship folders are available at the entrances for those who desire them. Today you will be asked to open a hymnal to sing one hymn. You will find the blue Christian Worship (2021) hymnal in the hymnal racks in each pew.

ALA SUNDAY

We thank the students from Arizona Lutheran Academy for leading a special worship service of Word and song this morning. The ALA A Cappella Choir is an auditioned choir under the direction of ALA’s Fine Arts Director, Mr. Joshua Severeid. This choir participates in concerts, ALA chapel services, and community events and leads worship for ALA Sundays at churches in the ALA federation.

We also thank ALA Campus Pastor Brad Bode for sharing the Word of God with us this morning. Pastor Bode also serves ALA as the Assistant Principal for Student Life, Religion Instructor, and Varsity Volleyball Coach.

And we thank Mr. Kurt Rosenbaum for being with us this morning, playing organ and piano, and presenting during our Adult Bible Study about the blessings, challenges, and future plans of ALA. Mr. Rosenbaum serves as the Principal at ALA, as well as a Social Studies Instructor. To express our thanks to the ALA choir, a door offering will be collected, which will help defray their travel costs.

Arizona Lutheran Academy is our area WELS high school located in Phoenix. Their mission is to provide an exceptional education while also preserving a Christ focused school culture, promoting spiritual growth and Christian service, and preparing life long disciples of Jesus Christ. Grace supports this high school as a member of its federation. Four Grace members are currently students at ALA, and Grace member Naomi Kassulke is a member of the A Cappella Choir.

+ ORDER OF WORSHIP + WELCOME

CHOIR

Alleluia

Music by Philip W. J. Stopford Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia....

Music: Philip W. J. Stopford © 2018 philipstopford.com. Used by permission of the composer.

INVOCATION

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

SPOKEN RESPONSES

As we gather together in God’s house to hear his Word and offer our praises, our eyes are focused upward to the home that awaits us, so beautiful and serene that we cannot fully grasp the splendor of it all. John the Apostle writes: Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea.

I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will be with them and be their God. He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”

He who was seated on the throne said, “I am making everything new!” Then he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.”

Revelation 21:1 Revelation 21:2 4 Revelation 21:5

Matthew 25:21

SPOKEN RESPONSES

A place of paradise where God will dwell with his people forever this is heaven! And we know that this place is meant for us, where we will join the legions of angels and the faithful who have gone before us.

With the faithful servant in Jesus’ parable, we hear the invitation of our Savior: Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness.

But you have come to Mount Zion, to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem. You have come to thousands upon thousands of angels in joyful assembly, to the church of the firstborn, whose names are written in heaven. You have come to God, the Judge of all, to the spirits of the righteous made perfect, to Jesus, the mediator of a new covenant, and to the sprinkled blood that speaks a better word than the blood of Abel.

SPOKEN RESPONSES

The twenty four elders fall down before him who sits on the throne and worship him who lives for ever and ever. They lay their crowns before the throne and say, “You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they were created and have their being.”

Jesus says, “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. My Father’s house has many rooms; if it were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.”

Revelation 4:11 12

John 14:1 3

Text:

With our eyes fixed on the prize awaiting us, we begin our worship of our great God and Savior together.

Please stand

tr. John Mason Neale, 1818 1866, alt.; Bernard of Cluny, 12th cent., abr. Tune: Gustav Holst, 1874 1934. Text and tune: Public domain.

CONFESSION AND ABSOLUTION Lead Me Back

Words and music by Pepper Choplin; Inspired by Luke 15:11-23 Piano: Naomi Kassulke; Narrator: Jack List

Reader: A certain man had two sons. And one said to his father, “Give me my share of the estate.” So he divided his property between them. And not many days after, the son took a journey into a country and there wasted his wealth with wild living. And when he had spent it all, there was a mighty famine in the land; and he began to be in want.

When he came to his senses, he said, “How many of my father’s hired men have food to spare, and here I am starving to death! I will arise and go to my father and say, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you, and I am no longer worthy to be called your son. Make me as one of thy hired servants.’”

Choir: Lead me back to my home, I have wandered far away. I’ve been gone for far too long. Will you welcome me today?

Is it possible you can hear me After the way I turned from you? Is it possible that you’re near me, That you never went away And you’ll lead me back today?

The life I spent, the days I lost, I have lived them all in vain. Now I hold nothing to show But a heart that is full of pain.

Reader: And he arose and came to his father. But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him and had compassion and ran, threw his arms around him, and kissed him. And the son said unto him, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. I am no more worthy to be called your son. ”

But the father said to his servants, “Quick! Bring forth the best robe and put it on him, and put a ring on his hand and shoes on his feet. And bring the fatted calf and kill it and let us eat and celebrate. For this, my son, was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.”

Choir: Lord, I know that you will hear me Although I turned away from you. Lord, I see that you were near me, And you never went away, And you call me back today.

The song continues on the next page.

PRAYER OF THE DAY

Eternal God, merciful Father, you have appointed your Son as judge of the living and the dead. Enable us to wait for the day of his return with our eyes fixed on the kingdom prepared for your own from the foundation of the world; through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.

Amen. Please be seated

6

The angel said to me, “These words are trustworthy and true. The Lord, the God who inspires the prophets, sent his angel to show his servants the things that must soon take place.”

7“Look, I am coming soon! Blessed is the one who keeps the words of the prophecy written in this scroll.”

8I, John, am the one who heard and saw these things. And when I had heard and seen them, I fell down to worship at the feet of the angel who had been showing them to me. 9But he said to me, “Don’t do that! I am a fellow servant with you and with your fellow prophets and with all who keep the words of this scroll. Worship God!”

10Then he told me, “Do not seal up the words of the prophecy of this scroll, because the time is near. 11Let the one who does wrong continue to do wrong; let the vile person continue to be vile; let the one who does right continue to do right; and let the holy person continue to be holy.”

12“Look, I am coming soon! My reward is with me, and I will give to each person according to what they have done. 13I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End.”

Jesus will return soon. When he does, the reward he won for mankind will be in his hand.

PSALM (sung by the choir)

Praise ye the Lord in his sanctuary, Praise ye the Lord in the firmament.

Praise him for his mighty acts, And praise him for his excellent greatness.

Praise him with the sound of the trumpet: Praise him with the psaltery and harp. Praise him with timbrel and dance: Praise him with stringed instruments. Praise him with organs. Praise him with cymbals. Praise him with high sounding cymbals. Let everything that hath breath praise the Lord. Praise ye the Lord!

Psalm 150 Music by Peter Anglea

Jesus urges us to remain ready for his return at all times.

CHOIR Glory Be

Words by Heather Sorenson and St. Francis of Assisi Music by Heather Sorenson and from “Geistliche Kirkengesang”

Glory be to God the Father, and to God the Son, And to the Holy Spirit, Three in One. Sing alleluia.

All creatures of our God and King Lift up your voice and with us sing.

O praise the Father, praise the Son.

O praise the Spirit, Three in One.

O praise him, O praise him! Alleluia.

Glory be to God the Father, glory be to God the Son, Glory to the Holy Spirit.

O praise him, Alleluia.

Glory, gloria!

Glory be to God in all the earth. Glory to God!

© 2020 Hal Leonard, Inc. Used by permission: OneLicense no. 710199.

You will find this hymn in the blue hymnals in each row.

GOSPEL

Luke 12:35 40

“Be dressed ready for service and keep your lamps burning, 36like servants waiting for their master to return from a wedding banquet, so that when he comes and knocks they can immediately open the door for him. 37It will be good for those servants whose master finds them watching when he comes. Truly I tell you, he will dress himself to serve, will have them recline at the table and will come and wait on them. 38It will be good for those servants whose master finds them ready, even if he comes in the middle of the night or toward daybreak. 39But understand this: If the owner of the house had known at what hour the thief was coming, he would not have let his house be broken into. 40You also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him.”

35

HYMN OF THE DAY—Lo! He Comes with Clouds Descending

Center Your Life on Jesus, Your All-Sufficient Savior

15The Son is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. 16For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him. 17He is before all things, and in him all things hold together. 18And he is the head of the body, the church; he is the beginning and the firstborn from among the dead, so that in everything he might have the supremacy. 19For God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in him, 20and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through his blood, shed on the cross.

Please stand

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.

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.

OFFERING

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:

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

CHOIR

Praise to the Lord

Words by Joachim Neander, tr. Catherine Winkworth Music from “Ander Theil Des Erneuerten Gesang Buchs” Arranged by Hugo Distler Praise to the Lord, the Almighty, the King of Creation!

O my soul, praise him, for he is thy Health and Salvation! Gather ye round, let us make music resound! Praise him in glad adoration!

Praise to the Lord, who over all things so wondrously reigneth. Shelters thee under his wings, yea, so gently sustaineth. Hast thou not seen, how thy heart’s wishes have been Granted in what he ordaineth.

© 1966 J. Fischer Bros./Jubilate Music Group. Used by permission: OneLicense no. 710199.

In Christ Alone

Words and Music by Stuart Townend and Keith Getty Arranged by David Angerman

In Christ alone my hope is found. He is my light, my strength, my song; This Cornerstone, this solid ground, Firm through the fiercest drought and storm. What heights of love, what depths of peace, When fears are stilled, when strivings cease. My Comforter, my all in all, Here in the love of Christ I stand.

In Christ alone, who took on flesh, Fullness of God in helpless babe. This gift of love and righteousness, Scorned by the ones he came to save. ‘Til on the cross as Jesus died, The wrath of God was satisfied. For every sin on him was laid; Here in the death of Christ I live.

There in the ground his body lay. Light of the world by darkness slain; Then bursting forth in glorious day, Up from the grave he rose again! And as he stands in victory, Sin’s curse has lost its grip on me; For I am his and he is mine, Bought with the precious blood of Christ.

No guilt in life, no fear in death

This is the power of Christ in me; From life’s first cry to final breath, Jesus commands my destiny. No power of hell, no scheme of man Can ever pluck me from his hand; ‘Til he returns or calls me home, Here in the power of Christ I stand.

Brief intercessory prayers may be added in a fitting place.

PRAYER OF THE CHURCH

Lord Jesus Christ, blessed are you, the King who comes to set your people free.

Reign over us in your abundant mercy.

While we long for your final coming, we rejoice that you lengthen these end times so that many may hear of your saving work and believe.

Send your Spirit on us that we may use the gift of time to share our faith with others.

Lord and King, defend all who are imprisoned or insulted because of your name. Come to help those whose Christian faith is mocked as foolish or naïve, and rescue those who are straying from the faith.

Lead us to those who need help, guide us in our works of service, and strengthen us with a firm resolve to follow you in obedience.

Lord of the Church, develop in us a new awareness of the gifts you give us to use in our callings, that your kingdom of grace may flourish.

Bless and preserve Christian churches everywhere and raise up another generation of faithful workers.

Both in humiliation and glory you extended your loving hand to the weak and the hurting. Speak to those who are confused and wondering. Defend those who are oppressed and put down. Comfort those who are enduring pain or struggling with sadness. Abide with the aged who are alone as they die and protect pregnant mothers and their unborn children.

Move us to see your face in them, Lord Jesus and to help them as we serve you.

Mighty King, look with mercy on this land, its government, and all the kingdoms of the world. Relieve us from war, bloodshed, and rebellion.

Grant us wisdom as we deal with a changing economy. Provide for the unemployed and their families. Open the hearts of those who prosper to be generous and willing to share.

Hear us, Lord, as we pray in silence.

Silent prayer

Coming King and Savior of the world, keep us faithful to the end as we watch and wait for your return. 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.

+ THE SACRAMENT +

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.

Amen.

Please be seated

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 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.

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.

Gluten free communion wafers and grape juice are available for those who for health or medical reason require it. Please see page 18 for additional details.

+ GO FORTH WITH GOD +

CHOIR Prayer to Jehovah

Words by William Williams, tr. Peter Williams Music by Molly Ijames

Guide me, O thou great Jehovah, pilgrim through this barren land; I am weak but thou art mighty, hold me with thy powerful hand. Bread of Heaven, Bread of Heaven, feed me ‘til I want no more.

Open now the crystal fountain whence the healing stream overflow; Let the fire and cloudy pillar lead me all my journey through. Strong Deliverer, Strong Deliverer, be my strength and shield.

When I tread the verge of Jordan, bid my anxious fears subside; Death of death and hell’s destruction, land me safe on Canaan’s side Songs of praises, songs of praises, I will ever give to thee.

© 2017 Beckenhorst Press, Inc. Used by permission: OneLicense no. 710199.

CHOIR

God Go Before You

Words by Anonymous Music by Roy Hop Piano: Natalie Konig

God go before you to lead you. God go behind you to protect you. God go beneath you to support you. God go beside you to befriend you.

Do not be afraid. And let the blessing of Almighty God The Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit Come upon you and settle in around you.

Do not be afraid. Go in peace to love and serve the Lord. Amen.

© 2012 GIA Publications, Inc. Used by permission: OneLicense no. 710199.

MESSAGE

Mr. Kurt Rosenbaum

SOPRANO

Karin Aguilar, 10 Kahlyn Baumann, 11 Rachel Groth, 12 Mallory Hermanson, 12 Naomi Kassulke, 12 Natalie Konig, 11 Hope Pa erson, 12 Emily Walker, 11 Sophia Weinstein, 10

Naphtalie Ackerman, 12 Arianna Bublitz, 11 Emma Groth, 11 Aubrey Hartzell, 12 Anika Indahl, 11 Rhea Lechuga, 11 Naomi Stahmann, 11 Addison Van Hofwegen, 10

Paul Escalante, 10 Preston Fore, 10 Eoghan Hill, 10 Seth Meyer, 11 Andrew Weir, 11

BASS

William Knightly, 11 Jack List, 11 Tristan McDunn, 10 Kai Robinson, 12 Ryan Schmidt, 11

Mr. Joshua Severeid, Director

ALA is commi ed to serving its federa on and community by providing an excep onal educa on, preserving a Christ focused school culture, promo ng spiritual growth and Chris an service, and preparing life long disciples of Jesus Christ.

Tuition Workshop

Tuesday, November 29, 6:00 PM

If you would like to learn more about how various programs can help with tuition at ALA, you are encouraged to attend an ALA Tuition Assistance Workshop. Learn about all the options available for tuition assistance at ALA, including the new Universal Empowerment Scholarship Account (ESA) Program. Find more information and register at ALAcoyotes.org/TAW.

ALA Christmas Concert

The annual ALA Christmas Concert will be held on Friday, December 16, 2022, at 7:00 PM in the ALA gymnasium. All are invited to this free concert as our student choirs, band, and ensembles share the message of Christmas in music and song.

Explore ALA & Coyote Shadow Day

Our next Coyote Shadow Day and Explore ALA event is Wednesday, January 18, 2023. Explore ALA for parents and students starts at 6:00 PM with a student led campus tour. This is an informational session to learn more about the ALA experience. Students are also invited to shadow an ALA student on the same day from 8:45 AM to 3:00 PM. Register for both at ALAcoyotes.org/ admissions.

ALA Scrip Program

Did you know that ALA still runs a Scrip program? (“Scrip” is another name for “gift cards.”) The purchase of these gift cards raises funds which can be applied to an ALA student's tuition account, to the ALA tuition assistance fund, to another child’s tuition (at a WELS school), or to a local WELS church as a charitable gift. The ALA office places orders for physical gift cards twice a month (middle and end of the month), but digital gifts cards are available to purchase AT ANY TIME on your smartphone through the Raise Right app. (Purchasing through this app incurs a nominal fee as low as 15 cents for each order.)

Why not consider purchasing through Scrip for your holiday gift giving? Here’s an example of how this might work: purchase an Amazon gift card through your Raise Right app. Add that gift card to your Amazon account, so when you are ready to make holiday purchases, your account is already funded. Order through Amazon Smile (smile.amazon.com) selecting Grace Lutheran Church as your charity recipient. In the process of shopping, you will have supported both ALA and Grace! For more information about the ALA Scrip program, please visit alacoyotes.org/support/giftcards/.

Jack List, William Knightly

Kay Kassulke, Erika Hanson

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. The prayers below may be used before and after receiving communion.

Altar Flowers

The flowers beautifying our altar today have been given by Jeff & Stephanie Weinstein in thanksgiving for all of the blessings of family and friends and especially the wedding of Nicole and Seth.

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. The next available Sundays are December 18 and all the Sundays in January. 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 drinks and snacks. We thank Jeanette O’Donald, Nadine Rentschler, and Amy & Emily Rudd for hosting this week. All the Sundays in January are available for hosting. Please sign up on the sheet in the Fellowship Hall.

Children’s Bible Hour: TODAY

All children, ages 3 8th grade, are invited to attend Children’s Bible Hour on Sunday mornings. The children will begin all together in the main area of our Education Building at 8:45 AM for music and an opening devotion and from there will be divided into age-based classrooms. Parents can meet their children after class at their classrooms or in the courtyard. If you have any questions about Children’s Bible Hour, please contact Pastor Patoka.

Tucson Campus Ministry Bible Study: TONIGHT

Thanksgiving is soon coming, and many are looking forward to it. They may be looking forward to the extended weekend break, the opportunity to reconnect with loved ones, or the delicious food we get to enjoy. Where do all these blessings come from? They’re from our Lord’s hand. Join us for TCM’s Thanksgiving-themed Bible study as we count our blessings and give thanks to God for all he’s graciously given us. We will meet tonight at 7:00 PM in the TCM Student Center here at Grace-Tucson. Refreshments will be provided.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Thanksgiving Services: Wednesday

We hope you will join us at one of our Grace locations this Wednesday, November 23, to thank and praise God for the many blessings he provides to us.

6:00 PM Grace-Sahuarita 7:00 PM Grace-Tucson

You are also invited to enjoy a dessert fellowship following these worship services. Members are asked to bring a pie or other dessert to share.

Wednesday Midweek Bible Study

Because of Thanksgiving and the Christmas season, our Church History Bible Study will not be meeting again until next year. Please join us again beginning Wednesday, January 11, at 10:00 AM and 7:00 PM.

Thursday Midweek Bible Study

Our Women’s Bible Study is working through the book “Prepared to Answer” and tackling subjects such as “Marrying doesn’t make sense anymore” and “There are things I’ll never be able to forgive.” Each question is handled in just a handful of pages, so it is easy to jump into the study at any time, even if you can’t make it each week. This class meets next on Thursday, December 1, at 9:00 AM in the Grace-Tucson Fellowship Hall.

Wedding Invitation: Friday

Grace congregation members are invited to the wedding service of Pastor Seth Scheuerlein and Nicole Weinstein this Friday, November 25, at 3:00 PM at Grace-Tucson. You are also invited to attend a brief reception on the lawn in front of the church immediately following the service.

Grace Central Office Closed: Friday

The Grace Central Office will be closed this Friday, November 25. If you have an immediate need, please leave a message on the office voicemail or contact one of the pastors directly. The office will reopen on Monday, November 28 at 9:00 AM.

Midweek Advent Services

Advent is a time of preparation and repentance as we prepare to celebrate Christmas. Join us on three Wednesdays, November 30 and December 7 & 14, for special Advent Midweek worship services. This year we will be focusing on the question raised by one of our hymns, “O Lord, How Shall I Meet You?” Three weekly themes will rotate through the sites hosting our midweek services, so you are encouraged to pick one site at which to worship for these services.

Grace-Benson 10:00 AM

Grace Sahuarita 10:00 AM and 6:00 PM

Grace-Tucson 10:00 AM and 7:00 PM

You are also invited to join us for a light lunch following the service at Grace Benson or a light supper at 6:00 PM at Grace Tucson.

Advent Supper Hosts

Individuals or groups are needed to host the Advent suppers on November 30 and December 7 & 14. A Thrivent Action Team will be available to cover the cost of food. If you would like to host a supper, please sign up on the sheet on the table in the Fellowship Hall.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Ladies’ Fellowship Group: December 1

The Ladies’ Fellowship Group will meet on Thursday, December 1, at 10:15 AM in the Grace Tucson Fellowship Hall. They will be holding an Advent appetizer potluck and exchanging white elephant gifts. Please bring an appetizer and a wrapped gift. Ladies from ALL sites are welcome to join in the fun! Please RSVP by signing the sheet in the Fellowship Hall or call/email the Grace Central Office (520 623 6633 or office@gracelutheransaz.org). Contact Lois Thornton at (520)323 8772 if you have any questions.

Christmas Caroling to Homebound Members: December 3

Do you enjoy caroling? If so, you are welcome to join our homebound volunteers on Saturday, December 3, for our 3rd annual caroling excursion to our homebound members. We will meet at 9:00 AM in the Grace Tucson Fellowship Hall, practice a few songs, and then head out around 9:30 AM. Based on last year’s timeframe, we are estimating approximately 4 hours for travel and singing. You may want to bring something to drink and/or snacks. Please RSVP by calling or texting Holly Vaden at (208)922 9884.

Advent by Candlelight: December 4

All ladies are invited to Advent by Candlelight on Sunday, December 4, from 4:00 to 5:30 PM in the Grace Tucson Fellowship Hall. You are encouraged to bring your friends to join in focusing on the true meaning of Christmas.

We need ladies to host a table for six to eight ladies. This includes bringing dishes (plates, silverware, cups) and a light snack/dessert to share with the table. If you are interested in hosting a table or have any questions, please contact Hailey Brandt at (608)387 9319.

CLC Fundraiser at Panda Express: December 5

Our Child Learning Center at our Sahuarita site will be holding a fundraiser at Panda Express (750 S. Rancho Sahuarita Blvd. Sahuarita, AZ 85629) on Monday, December 5, from 9:00 AM to 8:30 PM. 20% of event sales will be donated to the CLC! Our goal is to raise money for classroom supplies and grow our scholarship fund. You must bring in an event flyer (available on a table in the Fellowship Hall) or show it on your smartphone. If you are ordering online (PandaExpress.com or the App) use the fundraiser code 342141. We hope you can come and help support the Child Learning Center!

Carols in the Courtyard: December 9

Begin the coming Christmas season with your friends at Grace, our friends from the neighborhood around Grace-Tucson, and the unchurched friends and family you invite to join you! Carols in the Courtyard is both a fellowship event for Grace members from ALL sites and an outreach event. Sing along with favorite Christmas songs, enjoy some hot chocolate and homemade Christmas treats, and spend a fun evening with friends in our decorated courtyard! We hope you can join us on Friday, December 9, from 6:00 to 9:00 PM in the Grace Tucson courtyard. There are invitation cards available at both church doors and in the Fellowship Hall for you to use to invite your friends!

Christmas For Kids: December 10

On Saturday, December 10, from 10:00 AM to 12:30 PM, Grace Tucson will host Christmas For Kids. This free, fun event will include songs, crafts, and other activities that will focus on God’s Christmas gift to us: our Savior Jesus! We will have a Jesus birthday party afterwards. Children aged 3 through grade 5 are invited to attend. Older siblings are welcome to assist. Registration is available at GraceLutheranSAZ.org/C4K. Please contact Pastor Patoka (RevTLP@GraceLutheranSAZ.org) for more information.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Annual Meeting: December 11

Please save the date for our Annual Voters' Meeting on Sunday, December 11. This year's meeting will take place at Grace Vail at noon. Lunch will be provided. Watch for more details and information about the business to be considered at the meeting.

Divine Call Update

At our special Call meeting on Sunday, October 23, Grace extended two Divine Calls for Mission Teachers at our Child Learning Center. Mrs. Alison Moeri has declined our call and will continue to serve at Little Lambs Learning Center and Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church in Duluth, Minnesota.

The other call was extended to Mrs. Jennifer Rannow who currently serves at Precious Lambs Early Learning Center at Gethsemane Lutheran Church in Raleigh, North Carolina. Please continue to keep her and her family in your prayers as she deliberates whether to accept our call and move her ministry here to southern Arizona or to decline our call and continue serving in her current location. Feel free to communicate with her any information that you feel may be helpful in her deliberations (jjrannow@gmail.com or (704)668 1599).

Divine Call Received

Pastor Kassulke was informed on November 10 that St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Fort Atkinson, WI had voted to extend to him a Divine Call to serve as their outreach pastor. This means that he now holds two calls, one to Grace Tucson and one to St. Paul’s in Fort Atkinson. In the coming weeks, he will be working to make a decision whether to accept the new Call and move his ministry to Wisconsin or to decline the Call and continue serving here. He will strive to make that decision with prayer and careful consideration where his particular gifts for ministry fit best.

Pastor Kassulke welcomes any input that the friends and members of Grace might wish to share with him. You can reach him by email at RevNPK@GraceLutheranSAZ.org or by phone at (520)260 4453. He also appreciates prayers offered on behalf of him and his family during this deliberation as well as for both congregations.

Grace Member Called to Heaven

Grace member Bernice Marsala was called to her Savior’s side on November 10. We thank God for the many blessings he bestowed on Bernice during her life on earth and rejoice that she has received the crown of life in heaven. Please watch for future announcements regarding a memorial service.

Lifeliner Calendar Fundraiser

Did you forget to buy your 2023 wall calendar and so support Grace’s high school youth group, the Lifeliners? It's not too late! Call the Grace Central Office (520-6236633) to order your calendar from our remaining supplies. The cost is $10 for one calendar or get two for $15.

Mission to the Children Christmas Gifts

Mission to the Children is preparing Christmas Boxes for the families in the villages they serve in Mexico. They are requesting the following items: soccer or sports balls, stuffed animals (about 10” high), children’s socks, and candy. Visa, MasterCard, Walmart, or Target gift cards are also appreciated for purchasing items that are not donated. Items and gift cards may be dropped off in the Grace Central Office Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Please bring your items by NEXT Sunday, November 27

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 Ÿ November 20 – November 27

TUCSON

Today

Worship Services with communion 7:45a & 10:00a Children’s Bible Hour 8:45a

Adult Bible Study: ALA Presentation.............................. 9:00a

NO Lifeliners (High School) Bible Study

Small Group Bible Study: God & Government 9:00a Lifeliners Mini Golf Outing 12:00p

TCM Bible Study: Count Your Blessings........................ 7:00p

Tuesday

Weekly Pastors’ Meeting 9:00a Handbell Rehearsal 5:30p English Classes.............................................................. 6:30p Worship Choir 6:45p

Wednesday

NO Midweek Bible Study (resumes January 11)

Thanksgiving Eve Worship & Fellowship 7:00p

Thursday Thanksgiving

NO Women’s Bible Study (resumes December 1)

Friday

Grace Central Office Closed Scheuerlein/Weinstein Wedding 3:00p

Next Sunday, November 27

Worship Services 7:45a & 10:00a Children’s Bible Hour 8:45a Adult Bible Study: 10 Lies About God ............................ 9:00a Lifeliners (High School) Bible Study 9:00a Small Group Bible Study: God & Government 9:00a

NO TCM Bible Study (resumes December 4)

ONLINE Today

Adult Bible Study (Tucson).............................................9:00a Worship Services (Tucson and Sahuarita) 10:00a

Wednesday

Thanksgiving Worship Service (Sahuarita) 6:00p

Thanksgiving Worship Service (Tucson)........................7:00p

Friday

Pastor Scheuerlein/Nicole Weinstein Wedding 3:00p

Next Sunday, November 27

Adult Bible Study (Tucson) 9:00a Worship Services (Tucson and Sahuarita) 10:00a

Stay Up to Date

VAIL Today

Children’s Sunday School 9:00a

Adult Bible Study: Male & Female He Created Them 9:00a Worship Service with communion.................................10:00a Fellowship following worship

Thursday Thanksgiving

NO Midweek Bible Study (resumes December 1)

Next Sunday, November 27

Children’s Sunday School

9:00a

Adult Bible Study: Male & Female He Created Them 9:00a Worship Service............................................................10:00a Fellowship following worship

BENSON

Today

Worship Service with communion...................................7:30a Bible Study following worship: 1 Corinthians

Wednesday

NO Midweek Bible Study (resumes January 4) Thanksgiving Eve Worship & Fellowship......................10:00a

Next Sunday, November 27 Worship Service 7:30a Bible Study following worship: 1 Corinthians

SAHUARITA Today

Adult Bible Study: 10 Lies About God 9:00a Children’s Sunday School 9:00a Worship Service with communion.................................10:00a

Wednesday

NO Midweek Bible Study (resumes January 4)

NO Grow in Grace Class (resumes January 4)

Thanksgiving Eve Worship & Fellowship 6:00p Thursday & Friday

Child Learning Center Closed Next Sunday, November 27

Adult Bible Study: 10 Lies About God 9:00a Children’s Sunday School 9:00a Worship Service............................................................10:00a

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 be added to our email list.

Grace

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

Pastor

Pastor

Pastor

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 revsas@gracelutheransaz.org

Office at Civano

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

Prayer Group Laura Hodgson prayergroup@gracelutheransaz.org

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

Administrative Assistant—Debbie Koehler assistant@gracelutheransaz.org

Worship Coordinator—Beth Kassulke music@gracelutheransaz.org

Office Assistant—Cora Stuhr office@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