2-19-23 Grace-Tucson Worship Folder

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THE LAST SUNDAY AFTER EPIPHANY

G E L C T , A F 19, 2023

WORSHIP NOTES

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

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 live-streaming.

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 THEME FOR TODAY—THE GLORY OF THE LORD

Throughout his ministry Jesus said astounding things and did astounding things. Yet, he looked like a normal man. The prophet said, “He had no beauty or majesty to attract us to him, nothing in his appearance that we should desire him” (Isaiah 53:2). This would all change one day atop a high mountain. There, Jesus gave his disciples gave his Church a glimpse of the glory he set aside to be our Savior. And the voice of the Father thundered from the heavens, just as it did at Jesus’ baptism, announcing Jesus’ true identity to the world the glorious Son of God. And so the Transfiguration of our Lord serves as a one-week bridge between the season of Epiphany, where Jesus is revealed as the true Son of God, and the season of Lent, where we witness what the Son of God came to do.

On the Mount of Glory, St. Peter declared, “It is good for us to be here.” Indeed! For here we see the God of Majestic Glory, who became a man to suffer and die for us, just as Moses and the Prophets had foretold. Oh, how much this glorious God loves us!

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OPENING HYMN How Good, Lord, To Be Here Christian Worship 389

PRESERVICE MUSIC:

O Trinity, O Blessed

Light Jan Bender

Oh, Wondrous Type!

Oh, Vision Fair

Valerie A. Floeter

Christ Begins Valerie A. Floeter

10:00 Handbells Worship and Praise

Our Lord and King Michael Helman

Please stand

INVOCATION

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

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

DIALOGUE FOR TRANSFIGURATION SUNDAY

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. 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.

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

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.

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

Genesis 1:1-4

Genesis 3:6

Isaiah 60:2

Isaiah 9:2, 6

Isaiah 60:1

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+ ORDER OF WORSHIP + WELCOME

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.

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

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.

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

His face shone like the sun, and his clothes became as white as the light.

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HYMN RESPONSE—O Splendor of God’s Glory Bright Christian Worship 780 Text: tr. composite; Ambrose of Milan, 340–397, abr. Tune: Nicolaus Herman, c. 1480–1561. Text and tune: Public domain. Psalm 27:2-3
Psalm 27:1 John 1:1-5 John 8:12 Matthew 17:2

+ THE WORD +

PRAYER OF THE DAY

The Lord be with you. And also with you.

Let us pray.

O God, in the glorious transfiguration of your only-begotten Son, you confirmed the mysteries of the faith by the testimony of Moses and Elijah, and in the voice that came from the bright cloud, you foreshadowed our adoption as your sons. In your mercy, make us co-heirs of glory with Jesus our King, and bring us at last to heaven; 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

FIRST READING Exodus 24:9-18

9 Then Moses, Aaron, Nadab, Abihu, and seventy of the elders of Israel went up. 10 They saw the God of Israel. Under his feet they saw what looked like a pavement of sapphire as clear as the sky. 11 The L did not lay his hand on the dignitaries of the people of Israel. They gazed at God, and they ate and drank.

12 The L said to Moses, “Come up to me on the mountain. Wait there, and I will give you the stone tablets with the law and the commands that I have written, so that you can teach them.”

13 Moses set out with his assistant Joshua and went up onto the mountain of God. 14 He said to the elders, “Wait here for us, until we come back to you. Look, here are Aaron and Hur. They will be with you. Whoever is involved in a dispute can go to them.”

15 Moses went up onto the mountain, and the cloud covered the mountain. 16 The Glory of the L settled on Mount Sinai, and the cloud covered the mountain for six days. On the seventh day the L called to Moses out of the middle of the cloud. 17 The appearance of the Glory of the L looked like a devouring fire on the top of the mountain in the sight of the people of Israel. 18 Moses entered into the middle of the cloud and climbed up the mountain. Moses was on the mountain forty days and forty nights.

The Word of the Lord.

Thanks be to God.

On Mount Sinai Moses saw the glory of the Lord as a terrifying fire. On the Mount of Transfiguration Moses saw the glory of the Lord as the Savior who takes our fear away.

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This new hymn, written by WELS

pastors Luke Thompson and Kent Reeder, follows Jesus’ public ministry from his baptism (st. 1), to his first miracle (st. 2), to his transfiguration (st. 3), and finally to his ascension into heaven (st. 4). More information about this hymn can be found at forwardinchrist.net/ christ-begins.

HYMN—Christ Begins Christian Worship 385

The vocalist will sing stanzas 1 and 2. Please join in singing the remainder of the hymn.

St. Peter testifies to the reliability of the Christian faith. Peter was an eyewitness to the majesty and glory of Jesus Christ, the Son of God.

Matthew 17:5

SECOND READING

16

2 Peter 1:16-21

To be sure, we were not following cunningly devised fables when we made known to you the powerful appearance of our Lord Jesus Christ, but we were eyewitnesses of his majesty. 17 For he received honor and glory from God the Father, when the voice came to him from within the Majestic Glory, saying, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.” 18 We heard this voice, which came out of heaven when we were with him on the holy mountain.

19 We also have the completely reliable prophetic word. You do well to pay attention to it, as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the Morning Star rises in your hearts, 20 since we know this above all else: No prophecy of Scripture comes about from someone’s own interpretation. 21 In fact, no prophecy ever came by the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were being carried along by the Holy Spirit.

The Word of the Lord. Thanks

be to God.

Please stand

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Artwork by Corissa Nelson: corissanelsonart.com

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION Mark 9:7

Please join in singing the refrains. The vocalist will sing the italicized verse.

Congregation:

Vocalist: A cloud covered them, and a voice came from the cloud: “This is my Son, whom I love. Listen to him!”

Refrain (ALL)

GOSPEL Matthew 17:1-9

1 Six days later Jesus took with him Peter, James, and John the brother of James; and he led them up onto a high mountain by themselves. 2 There he was transfigured in front of them. His face was shining like the sun. His clothing became as white as the light. 3 Just then, Moses and Elijah appeared to them, talking with Jesus.

4 Peter said to Jesus, “Lord, it is good for us to be here. If you want, I will make three shelters here: one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.”

5 While he was still speaking, suddenly a bright cloud overshadowed them. Just then, a voice came out of the cloud, saying, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased. Listen to him.”

6 When the disciples heard this, they fell face down and were terrified.

7 Jesus approached and as he touched them, he said, “Get up, and do not be afraid.” 8 When they opened their eyes, they saw no one except Jesus alone. 9 As they were coming down the mountain, Jesus commanded them, “Do not tell anyone what you have seen until the Son of Man has been raised from the dead.”

The Gospel of the Lord.

Praise be to you, O Christ.

The Gospel Acclamation points toward the words of the Gospel.

The transfiguration of our Lord.

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Tune: © 2010, 2021 GFTSMUSIC Publishing Company, Inc., admin. Music Services. Used by permission: OneLicense no. 710199

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.

HYMN OF THE DAY—Down from the Mount of Glory Christian Worship 388

SERMON

2 Peter 1:16-21 The Glory of the Lord Jesus Christ

1. Confirmed by Witnesses

2. Preserved in Word

Please stand

CONFESSION OF FAITH

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
Nicene Creed

PRAYER OF THE CHURCH

Eternal God and Father, we pray for the Church around the world. Always keep your people faithful to you. Lift the veil from our eyes and guide us to see Christ in the Word and sacraments. During all the distractions of life, help us set our sights on Jesus. Keep us safe and protect us from the tricks and treachery of the devil. Lord, in your mercy:

Hear our prayer.

We pray that you move us to have compassion on those stumbling in the darkness and empower us to proclaim Christ to all who have no faith. Give us courage to be unashamed of the light you have given us and to carry it willingly with joy wherever we go and whatever we do. Lord, in your mercy:

Hear our prayer.

Hear our prayers for Christians everywhere who are being persecuted because of the light they bear. Give them the strength to endure the hardships they are undergoing and give them the peace and hope of Christ as they battle on. Lord, in your mercy:

Hear our prayer.

We pray that Christ reveals his gracious presence to all who suffer. We pray especially for our families and those in our circle of friends who are sick or in need and for everyone whose needs we hold in our hearts. Lord, in your mercy:

Hear our prayer.

Be with us, Lord, as we think about the coming days of Lent. Let your law convince us that we indeed deserve your punishment and would be lost forever without Christ. As our hearts fill with sorrow and regret, lift us up to see the Savior’s sacrifice on the cross and give us hearts full of faith in him. Lord, in your mercy:

Hear our prayer.

Hear us, Lord, as we pray in silence.

Silent prayer

Lord God, hear the prayers we offer and let your grace and mercy flow to us and all for whom we pray. We ask this through Jesus Christ our Lord, the Light of the world. Amen.

Please be seated
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Brief intercessory prayers may be added in a fitting place.

OFFERTORY: How Good, Lord, to Be Here Wilbur Held

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!

Please stand

+ THE SACRAMENT +

PREFACE Christian Worship 199

The minister will sing the italicized words. The congregation responds by singing the bolded lines.

Minister:

Congregation:

Lift up your hearts.

Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.

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:

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Tune:
Gokelman © 2021 GFTSMUSIC Publishing Company, Inc., admin. Music Services. Used by permission: OneLicense no. 710199
David Kauffman; William

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.

10 HOLY, HOLY, HOLY (Sanctus) Christian Worship 200
Tune: David Kauffman; William Gokelman © 2010 GFTSMUSIC Publishing Company, Inc., admin. Music Services. Used by permission: OneLicense no. 710199

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.

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. Amen.

This song continues on the next page.

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LAMB OF GOD (Agnus Dei) Christian Worship 202

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.

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

COMMUNION MUSIC: Here, O My Lord, I See You Face to Face; I Come, O Savior, to Your Table; Lord, Jesus Christ, You Have Prepared; Sent Forth by God’s Blessing Kenneth T. Kosche

Please stand

12 Tune:
© 2010
Publishing
Inc., admin. Music Services. Used by permission: OneLicense no. 710199
David Kauffman; William Gokelman
GFTSMUSIC
Company,
Please be seated

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

SPOKEN RESPONSES

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

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.

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

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106:1 1 Corinthians 11:26
Psalm
+ THANKSGIVING +
ANNOUNCEMENTS

+ FAREWELL TO ALLELUIA +

Brothers and sisters in Christ, when we next gather for worship, it will be Ash Wednesday, the first day of Lent. On that day we will begin our solemn journey to the Savior’s cross. While the joy of faith remains undiminished throughout the year, our rejoicing during Lent is muted and quiet. For centuries, therefore, Christian churches have omitted their most jubilant songs during this season, including the word alleluia, which means, “praise the Lord.”

Now for a time we say farewell to alleluia. We do this to prepare ourselves for the quieter days of Lent. The alleluias will return on Easter dawn as we gather to shout our praise to the risen Lord.

CLOSING

Song of Triumph Christian Worship 977

This hymn is not printed in the hymnal, but was included in some of the accompanying resources released with the hymnal.

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Text:
–1866, alt.; Latin, c. 11th cent. Tune:
1800–1880. Text and
Public
HYMN Alleluia,
tr. John Mason Neale, 1818
John Goss,
tune:
domain.
POSTLUDE MUSIC: FORTUNATUS NEW Carl
Schalk

ANNOUNCEMENTS

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 on page 12 may be used before and after receiving communion.

Altar Flowers

The flowers beautifying our altar today have been given in celebration of Pastor Mark Hallemeyer’s birthday and in thanks to God for 80 years of blessings.

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 Sundays are March 26 and April 23 & 30. 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.

Chupala Lunch Today

Grace's high school youth group, the Lifeliners, invites you to join them following the 10:00 AM service today for their annual Chupala Lunch. Chupala is a delicious chicken and bean dish with southwestern spices that is served with tortillas or corn chips and toppings (lettuce, tomatoes, olives, cheese, etc.). The lunch after church is a great time to enjoy some fellowship.

The Chupala Lunch is also one of the ways that the Lifeliners raise funds for their activities. Donations are appreciated (checks may be made out to Grace), but you are welcome to eat even if you are unable to contribute. The funding for this event is sponsored by a Thrivent Action Team.

Those Assisting in Worship This Morning

Preacher................................................................................................................. Pastor Tim Patoka

Worship Leader Pastor Nathan Kassulke

Communion Assistants............................Pastor Ron Koehler, Pastor Mark Hallemeyer (10:00 AM)

Accompanist Kathy Parra

Vocalist.........................................................................................................................Beth Kassulke

Guitar Pastor Tim Patoka, Larry Mytych

Greeters.............................................................................................Jim & Elaine Goldie (10:00 AM)

Communion Prep Audrey Nessinger, Jeanette O’Donald, Lauri Colton

Sound and Recording Techs .................................Jeremy Snavely, Danny Koehler, Sam Kassulke

Banner Committee Nadine Rentschler, Jeanette O’Donald, Sandy Weir

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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 © 2022 Concordia Publishing House. Software distributed in partnership with Northwestern Publishing House.

Sunday Morning Bible Study

“I Don’t Need the Bible or Worship to Have a Relationship With God.” “God Doesn’t Judge Anyone, and Neither Should You.” These and other popular statements might sound good, but do they really fit with what the Bible says? This study will help us respond to false teachings about God and to defend what the Bible teaches. Now would be an excellent time to make this study a part of your Sunday routine! Please join us at 9:00 AM in the Fellowship Hall.

Tucson Campus Ministry Bible Study: Tonight

Join us tonight at 7:00 PM in the Student Center here at Grace-Tucson for TCM’s Bible Study “Jesus, According to Mark.” We’ll see how Jesus compels the demons and discuss the Synoptic Problem along the way.

Offering Envelope Delays

Many Grace members and friends receive a monthly mailing of offering envelopes that they use for their giving to support the ministry of our congregation. Unfortunately, we have learned the February envelopes were unable to be mailed out. The company that mails our envelopes has been experiencing difficulties, and they are working hard to handle the situation. They deeply apologize for this inconvenience and expect to be back on track with the March envelopes.

In the meantime, an offering placed in any envelope marked with your name and envelope number will be recorded. If needed, you will find envelopes to use at each of the church doors. You may also contribute your offerings through online giving, accessed through our church website, www.GraceLutheranSAZ.org. Members and friends who set up automatic giving do not need to rely on the monthly envelope mailing, but are welcome to receive them for any additional or special gifts. If you have any questions, please contact the Grace Central Office (520-623-6633, office@gracelutheransaz.org) or our Financial Manager (finance@gracelutheransaz.org).

Divine Call Updates

Pastor Patoka, after prayerful consideration and deliberation, has declined the call to serve at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Menomonie, WI. He will continue to serve in his role as one of the pastors here at Grace in Southern Arizona. He would like to thank all those who shared their thoughts with him during the deliberation and who prayed for him and Katie. He is also grateful that this time of deliberation allowed for many beneficial conversations about the gospel ministry we all share. Please continue to pray for our congregation and the many ways we proclaim forgiveness and salvation in Jesus to our communities!

At our special voters’ meeting on Sunday, February 12, a divine call was extended to Rebecca Gervais to serve as a mission teacher at the Child Learning Center at our Sahuarita location. Rebecca currently serves at Cornerstone Early Learning Center in Hugo, MN. Please keep her in your prayers and she considers where she can best use her gifts. She can be reached at (651)3192144 or RebeccaGervais@ChristLutheran.us.

Monday Evening Service

An evening worship service is held at Grace-Sahuarita on Monday evenings at 6:00 PM, and they 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.

ANNOUNCEMENTS 16

Midweek Lenten Services

Wednesday midweek services are being held at Grace-Benson, Grace-Sahuarita, and GraceTucson beginning with Ash Wednesday on February 22 and continuing through March 29.

The theme of our midweek services is “His Final Steps.” This series ponders the significance of the people and places on Jesus’ final steps to the cross and, three days later, his first steps from the tomb. The sermons and service themes will rotate among the various sites on the Wednesdays in March, so worshipers who attend more than one site could hear a sermon repeated. The Ash Wednesday services will all follow the theme “His Final Steps Led to a Tomb” and will include Holy Communion.

Grace-Benson 10:00 AM Lenten Worship

Grace-Sahuarita 10:00 AM & 6:00 PM Lenten Worship

Lunch to follow

Grace-Tucson 10:00 AM & 7:00 PM Lenten Worship 6:00 PM Light Supper

Midweek Lenten Supper Hosts Needed

A light supper will be held at 6:00 PM each Wednesday evening before our Lenten service. Volunteers are needed to host these meals beginning this Wednesday, February 22. Please sign up on the sheet in the Fellowship Hall. A free-will offering will be taken to help cover expenses.

Women’s Bible Study

The Thursday morning Women’s Bible Study here at Grace-Tucson has been unable to meet since the beginning of the year due to Pastor Koehler’s health. As he continues to deal with health concerns that are taking some time to resolve, he feels that it is best to plan for classes to begin again on Thursday, March 2. He looks forward to resuming the Prepared to Answer Bible Study at that time. He also appreciates your thoughts and prayers for patience and healing according to God’s good will.

Ladies’ Fellowship Group: Thursday

The Ladies’ Fellowship Group will meet this Thursday, February 23, at 11:00 AM at El Charro Restaurant in downtown Tucson for lunch. El Charro is located at 311 N. Court Avenue. There is paid parking available nearby. This is a date change from what was printed in the February newsletter. After lunch we plan to visit Old Town Artisans at 201 N. Court Avenue. If you would like to carpool, please contact Lois Thornton at (520)323-8772. Ladies from all Grace sites are welcome to join in the fun!

Time Out for Moms: February 25

Join us for Time Out for Moms this Saturday, February 25, from 9:00 to 11:00 AM at our Child Learning Center in Sahuarita. Meet new friends while enjoying coffee, breakfast, and making a birthstone bracelet. Childcare is provided. Please RSVP to (520)848-4630 or receptionist@gracelutheransaz.org by February 21.

Tucson Festival of Books: March 4 & 5

Once again Grace will have a booth at the Tucson Festival of Books. This event is on Saturday and Sunday, March 4 and 5, on the U of A Mall. The event runs from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM each day. If you are able and willing to take a shift in the booth to talk to others about Jesus, please let Paul Kassulke know when you are available. He can be reached at (520)850-5629.

ANNOUNCEMENTS
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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 Ÿ February 19 – February 26

Mexican Dinner: March 10

The annual all-site Mexican Dinner hosted by the Women of Grace is scheduled for Friday, March 10, from 4:30 to 6:30 PM in the Grace-Tucson Fellowship Hall. The meal will include sour cream enchilada casserole, tacos, and refried beans. Grace members are asked to bring a cake for dessert. If you are willing to make a casserole or help with the meal, please sign up on the sheets in the Fellowship Hall or call the Grace Central Office at (520)623-6633. The recipe and ingredients will be available to pick up in the Fellowship Hall on Sunday, March 5. We hope you can join us for this much-loved Grace tradition!

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TUCSON Today Worship Services with communion .................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 Lifeliners Chupala Lunch Fundraiser following worship.......... Lifeliners Hiking Outing after lunch TCM Bible Study: Jesus Compels the Demons 7:00p Tuesday Weekly Pastors’ Meeting 9:00a English Classes 6:30p Wednesday Ash Wednesday Worship Services .................10:00a & 7:00p Lenten Supper 6:00p Thursday NO Women’s Bible Study (resumes March 2) Ladies’ Fellowship Group 11:00a Handbell Rehearsal 5:30p Worship Choir 6:45p Saturday Homebound Volunteer Meeting 10:00a Next Sunday, February 26 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 TCM Bible Study: Jesus Helps the Needy .....................7:00p ONLINE Today Adult Bible Study (Tucson) 9:00a Worship Services (Tucson and Sahuarita)...................10:00a Wednesday Lenten Worship Service (Tucson) 7:00p Next Sunday, February 26 Adult Bible Study (Tucson)............................................. 9:00a Worship Services (Tucson and Sahuarita) 10:00a BENSON Today Worship Service with communion 7:30a Adult Bible Study following worship: 1 Corinthians Wednesday Ash Wednesday Worship Service and Lunch 10:00a Next Sunday, February 26 Worship Service 7:30a Adult Bible Study: Leadership Conf. Presentation 8:45a SAHUARITA Today Adult Bible Study: Leadership Conf. Presentation..........9:00a Children’s Sunday School 9:00a Worship Service with communion 10:00a Monday Worship Service with communion 6:00p Wednesday Ash Wednesday Worship Services................. 10:00a & 6:00p Saturday Time Out for Moms 9:00a Next Sunday, February 26 Adult Bible Study: 10 Lies About God.............................9:00a Children’s Sunday School 9:00a Worship Service 10:00a VAIL Today Children’s Sunday School...............................................9:00a Adult Bible Study: Male & Female He Created Them 9:00a Worship Service with communion 10:00a Thursday Midweek Bible Study: The Triumph of Grace 6:30p Next Sunday, February 26 Children’s Sunday School 9:00a Adult Bible Study: Male & Female He Created Them ....9:00a Worship Service 10:00a

One Church. Four Sites.

Proclaiming the love of Jesus in Southern Arizona since 1911.

Grace-Sahuarita

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

Pastor Ronald G. Koehler III revrgk3@gracelutheransaz.org

Pastor Nathan P. Kassulke revnpk@gracelutheransaz.org

Pastor Timothy L. Patoka (Campus Ministry) 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 revsas@gracelutheransaz.org

Office at Civano

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

Prayer Group Laura Hodgson prayergroup@gracelutheransaz.org

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

Pastor Ryan A. Heiman revrah@gracelutheransaz.org

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

Office Manager Jen Rickling Office Assistant Shirley Zanotti

Director Laura Heiman director@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

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