8-20-23 Grace-Tucson Worship Folder

THE TWELFTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST

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 THE CHURCH GOD WANTS

“I want a church that…” How would you complete that statement? Would you focus on size big or small? Would you think more about style formal versus laid back? Is it certain desired church programs that come to mind? What exactly do you want in a church?

In this worship series, we see that that is not the right question. Scripture says Jesus bought the Church with his blood. So, the right question then becomes: what does God want in a church? You might find a church that runs all the youth programs you want or has a vibe that you enjoy or is in your ideal location. But if that church is not doing what Christ wants it to do, then it really is not a spiritually healthy place to be. So, let us think about the church God wants. What does it look like? What are its priorities? What does it all do? Our worship will follow this path:

A Church for All People

A Church That Really Knows Jesus

A Church That Takes Up Its Crosses

A Church Willing to Say Hard Things

A Church That’s Quick to Forgive

THEME FOR TODAY—A CHURCH FOR ALL PEOPLE

“All are welcome!” Is that true at our church? Historically, it rarely is true. In the gospels, the average Jewish person would have thought it odd, even offensive, if someone who wasn’t an Israelite walked into their place of worship. Taking it a step further, some of the Jewish religious leaders would imply that church was meant for those who zealously followed religious customs and traditions. Those were “good church folk.” So church was meant for people of the right heritage and who behaved the right way. What about us? Is it conceivable that a stranger could walk into our church and for some reason you would ask yourself, “What is someone like that doing here?” Or, just perhaps, you are asking that question about yourself. “There are some seemingly godly people here. I’m not like them. Do I really belong?”

Today, Jesus shows us that God wants church to be for all people. All of us regardless of age, ethnicity, gender, or social status have the same problem of sin. And we all have the same Savior. Therefore, anyone who comes to Christ’s Church and cries out, “Lord, have mercy!” is more than welcome.

OPENING HYMN Lord of All Nations, Grant Me Grace Christian Worship 768

Variations on “The Church’s One Foundation”

Jan Bender

Fr. O. Reuter

Chester Nordman

Theodore Beck

Charles W. Ore

Please stand

INVOCATION

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

Congregation: Amen.

CONFESSION

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

Let us confess our sins to the Lord.

Almighty and merciful Father, we have strayed from your ways like lost sheep. We have followed what we have devised and desired in our hearts. We have offended you and sinned against your holy law. We have done those things that we should not have done, and we have not done those things that we should have done. Have mercy on us, Lord!

Spare us, forgive us, and restore us, according to your promises in Christ Jesus.

Silence for meditation and reflection

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

Amen.

Psalm 32:1-2

“Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed.” James 5:16

Mark 10:47

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

LORD, HAVE MERCY

In peace let us pray to the Lord.

Lord, have mercy.

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

Lord, have mercy.

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

Lord, have mercy.

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

Lord, have mercy.

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

HYMN OF PRAISE—Church of God, Elect and Glorious Christian Worship

The vocalist will sing stanza 1. Please join in singing the remaining stanza.

This hymn continues on the next page.

PRAYER OF THE DAY

The Lord be with you. And also with you.

Let us pray.

Gracious God, in Christ you bring people from near and far into the fellowship of your church. Open our eyes to your saving plan, and move us to embrace all who seek your salvation so that we may rejoice together at the banquet of your love; 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

7:45 AM please continue on page 7 with the First Reading

Our Savior Jesus Christ commanded Baptism when he said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

In the Gospel of Mark we hear:

People were bringing little children to Jesus for him to place his hands on them, but the disciples rebuked them. When Jesus saw this, he was indignant. He said to them, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.” And he took the children in his arms, placed his hands on them and blessed them.

All of us are born into this world with a deep need for Baptism. From our parents we inherit a sinful nature; we are without true fear of God and true faith in God and are condemned to eternal death. But while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. He took away our sin by giving his life on the cross. In Baptism, he clothes us with the robe of his righteousness and gives us a new life.

Walker Jameson Dietrich, I baptize you in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.

Receive the sign of the cross on the head and heart (+) to mark you as one redeemed by Christ the crucified.

The almighty God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ has given you the new birth of water and the Spirit and has forgiven all your sins. May he strengthen you with his grace all the days of your life. Peace be with you.

The minister addresses the parents: Chris and Jenna, our Lord Jesus Christ, in instituting Baptism, not only commanded that children should be baptized, but that they should be taught to obey everything he has commanded us. I therefore ask you:

Do you intend to bring up Walker in the way of the Lord and to instruct him in the truths of God’s saving Word so that he may grow in faith, serve God with a Christian life, and remain in his baptismal grace all the days of his life? If you are willing to do so, answer: “Yes, and we ask God to help us.”

Yes, and we ask God to help us.

The minister addresses the sponsor:

Taylor, Walker has been baptized in the name of the triune God. It is your privilege and responsibility to remember him in your prayers, to remind him of his baptism, and to assist in whatever manner possible so that he may be brought up in the true knowledge of God according to the teachings of the Scriptures as confessed by our Lutheran church. If you are willing to do so, answer: “Yes, and I ask God to help me.” Yes, and I ask God to help me.

The minister addresses the congregation:

Brothers and sisters in Christ, this child has been baptized into the family of believers, the holy Christian Church. It is our privilege and responsibility to care for the children of our congregation, to remember them in our prayers, to encourage their parents in their God-given work, and to demonstrate a Christian life. If you are willing to do so, answer: “Yes, and we ask God to help us.”

Yes, and we ask God to help us.

Let us pray.

We give thanks, most merciful Father, that you have received Walker as your own child and made him a member of Christ’s body, the church. Now, we pray, grant to him and to all your church on earth that, being dead to sin, we may live to righteousness and, being buried with Christ into his death, we may also share in his resurrection, so that, with all your saints, we may inherit eternal life; through Christ our Lord.

Amen.

HYMN—See This Wonder in the Making Christian Worship 646 stanzas 3-4

Through Isaiah the L told the world that all God-fearing people would have a place in the house of his Church.

1 This is what the L says. Protect justice, and carry out righteousness, because my salvation is coming very soon. My righteousness is ready to be revealed.

6 Then the foreigners who join themselves to the L , to minister to him and to love the name of the L and to become his servants, every one of them who keeps the Sabbath and does not profane it, those who take hold of my covenant

7 I will bring them to my holy mountain, and I will make them glad in my house of prayer. Their whole burnt offerings and their sacrifices will be acceptable on my altar. For my house will be called a house of prayer for all the peoplesof the world.

8 This is the declaration of God the L , who gathers Israel’s dispersed people: “I will gather still more people to my house besides the ones already gathered.”

The Word of the Lord. Thanks be to God.

This setting of Psalm 67 was not included in the blue Christian Worship hymnal. Rather it was included in the Christian Worship Psalter which was released in connection with the hymnal in 2021.

This Psalm continues on the next page.

SECOND READING Ephesians 2:13-22

13 But now in Christ Jesus, you who once were far away have been brought near by the blood of Christ. 14 For he himself is our peace. He made the two groups one by destroying the wall of hostility that divided them 15 when he abolished the law of commandments and regulations in his flesh. He did this to create in himself one new person out of the two, in this way making peace. 16 And he did this to reconcile both to God in one body through the cross by putting the hostility to death on it. 17 He also came and preached peace to you who were far away and peace to those who were near. 18 For through him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit.

19 So then, you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of God’s household. 20 You have been built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the Cornerstone. 21 In him the whole building is joined together and grows into a holy temple in the Lord. 22 In him you too are being built together into a dwelling place for God by the Spirit.

The Word of the Lord.

Thanks be to God.

Please stand

Christ takes foreigners and strangers and, upon the foundation of God’s Word, builds them into a holy temple his Church.

Text: Henry F. Lyte, alt Tune: German, adapt. Johann G. Werner. Text and tune: Public domain.

The Gospel Acclamation points toward the words of the Gospel.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION Ephesians 2:13

Please join in singing the refrain as you are comfortable:

In the face of Jesus’ test a Canaanite woman demonstrates great faith, proving that God’s Church is meant for all people.

Vocalist: But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near by the blood of Christ.

Refrain (ALL) Tune:

GOSPEL Matthew 15:21-28

21 Jesus left that place and withdrew into the region of Tyre and Sidon.

22 There a Canaanite woman from that territory came and kept crying out, “Have mercy on me, Lord, Son of David! A demon is severely tormenting my daughter!”

23 But he did not answer her a word. His disciples came and pleaded, “Send her away, because she keeps crying out after us.”

24 He answered, “I was sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.”

25 But she came and knelt in front of him, saying, “Lord, help me.”

26 He answered her, “It is not good to take the children’s bread and throw it to their little dogs.”

27 “Yes, Lord,” she said, “yet their little dogs also eat the crumbs that fall from their masters’ table.”

28 Then Jesus answered her, “Woman, your faith is great! It will be done for you, just as you desire.” And her daughter was healed at that very hour.

The Gospel of the Lord.

Praise be to you, O Christ.

HYMN OF THE DAY—The Church’s One Foundation

Christian Worship 855

SERMON Ephesians 2:13-22

A Church for All People

1. To Find Peace Himself

2. To Be Joined Together

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.

Brief intercessory prayers may be added in a fitting place.

PRAYER OF THE CHURCH

Eternal God and Father, we thank you for the blessings we share as members of your holy Church, for your gracious Word and sacraments, for opportunities to worship and to grow in faith and knowledge, for occasions to serve and be served, and for fellowship with believers in our congregation and our synod.

Help us rejoice in these blessings, dear Lord, and use them faithfully.

Jesus Christ, Lord of the Church, you give grace to your people by calling us to be your witnesses in the world. Open our eyes to see the great and noble mission that lies before us. In the hurting eyes of the lonely, in the pained eyes of the sick, and in the searching eyes of the lost, help us to see your face, Lord Jesus, and to serve others as we would serve you.

Awaken us to opportunities to proclaim your message of love.

Holy Spirit, giver of life, through Word and sacrament bestow on us the wisdom and power we need to witness clearly and to act boldly. Help us to speak the truth in love, to give the reason for the hope we have, and to conduct ourselves with gentleness and respect.

Set our hearts on fire as we work and witness for Christ.

Hear us, Lord, as we pray for a family member, a neighbor, or a friend who does not believe in you, or whose faith is weak or troubled.

Silent prayer

Keep in your care those who are enduring chronic pain and incessant unhappiness, those enduring rejection and struggling with poverty, and those mourning the loss of someone they loved. Bring healing and help and comfort and calm to everyone in distress.

Move us to act alone or join with others to provide help and support.

Bless the Church with men and women who are willing to proclaim your Word in places where we cannot go. Keep them and their loved ones in your care and let nothing hinder their work. By the power of the gospel, restore their spirits each day, so that they do not lose heart as they serve us and others.

Move us to support them with our sincere prayers and generous offerings.

Wherever your Word is proclaimed, O Lord, grant it success. Let your kingdom come to us and others, so that we and many more might join the assembly of saints and angels to sing your praise forever.

Savior of all, hear our prayer and help us in our mission. Amen.

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 +

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 promised that wherever two or three come together in his name, there he is with them to shepherd his flock until he comes again in glory. Therefore, with all the saints on earth and hosts of heaven, we praise your holy name and join their glorious song:

OFFERTORY: Aria Domenico Zipoli ed. Charles Callahan

This setting of the Sanctus comes from The Service Setting

Three, which can be found on page 200 in the hymnal. While we have used this setting before, it may be unfamiliar to some.

HOLY, HOLY, HOLY Sanctus

Please join in singing as much of this canticle as you are comfortable.

PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING

Lord God, you are worthy to receive thanks and praise from all people. You created the world and all who live in it, and in your mercy you saved us. We give thanks to you for the grace of your Son, Jesus Christ.

Though in very nature God, he took the nature of a servant and became obedient to death, even death on a cross. He offered himself as a sacrifice for sin and redeemed us from its curse and penalty. He rescued us from the terrors of death and restored eternal life with you. He conquered our enemies and gained for us the kingdom of grace and glory.

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

Bless us as we receive your Son’s body and blood, and lead us to remember his suffering, death, and resurrection. Forgive our sins and fill us with the hope of new life in heaven. Hear our praise and receive our thanks as we worship you the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.

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.

Amen.

LAMB OF GOD Agnus Dei

Please join in singing as much of this canticle as you are comfortable.

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.

This setting also comes from The Service Setting Three

This song continues on the next page.

Gluten-free communion wafers and grape juice are available for those who for health or medical reason require it. Please see page 17 for additional details.

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.

COMMUNION MUSIC:

Variations on “Soul, Adorn Yourself in Gladness”

Donald Busarow

Kevin Hildebrand

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.

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

Please be seated

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

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

Amen.

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

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

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 today have been given by Lois & Vic Thornton in thanksgiving for Lois’ father, Elroy Moll, and his mother, along with Lois’ baptismal birthday.

If you would like to provide flowers for the altar, please call (520-623-6633) or email (office@gracelutheransaz.org) the Grace Central Office to reserve a Sunday. Upcoming available Sundays are September 3, 17, & 24. 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 service this morning, you are invited to join us in the courtyard and Fellowship Hall for drinks and snacks. We thank Beth and David Williams for hosting this week. Upcoming available dates to host include all the Sundays in September. Please sign up on the sheet in the Fellowship Hall.

Those Assisting in Worship This Morning

Preacher

Worship

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Campus Ministry Presentation: Today

God has blessed Grace-Tucson to be steps away from the University of Arizona. For generations, Grace has done campus ministry in some form. But what exactly is it? Why is it needed in the college student community? How can you support campus ministry here and across the country? Come to Campus Pastor Tim's presentation during our regular Sunday morning Bible study this morning at 9:00 AM in the Fellowship Hall to find out.

New Bible Study Topic Next Sunday

Join us on Sunday mornings for a look at 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. If you have not made Sunday morning Bible study a part of your routine, this would be a great time to start! We meet at 9:00 AM in the Grace-Tucson Fellowship Hall.

Children’s Bible Hour

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.

WELS Tucson Campus Ministry

WELS Tucson Campus Ministry (TCM) invites all college-aged adults to grow closer to God and their peers in the fall semester through a number of ways. These include Sunday evening Bible studies, special events, Student Center access, and parking privileges. Visit WELSTCM.com to register and learn more.

Stop by TCM’s table at UArizona’s “Bash at the REC” tonight from 6:00 to 9:00 PM. Pick up some awesome swag, meet Campus Pastor Tim, and learn how to find your Christ-centered community during the school year. Then join us again next Sunday, August 27, at 7:00 PM for our Kickoff Party in the Student Center located in the basement at Grace-Tucson.

Daily Devotions

Grace Moments and Meditations daily devotional books are at either door to church and in the Fellowship Hall. A new Meditations books with devotions beginning August 27 is now available. These are great tools to use for your daily Bible study!

Thank You from Esmond Station

You may recall that during the month of July members at our Vail site organized a collection of school supplies for Esmond Station School, our worship location in Vail. Below is a note we received from them.

“Thank you for your generous donation of school supplies. Our students, teachers, and staff are grateful to the members of Grace Lutheran Church here in Vail.”

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Church History Bible Study: Wednesday

Our Wednesday Church History study resumes this Wednesday, August 23! We will be studying Lutheranism in America. 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: Thursday

“The church of history has done terrible things.” “Jesus never claimed to be God.” “I want to feel good about myself.” “There’s no such thing as truth.” “Do last-minute confessions get people into heaven?” We hear these kinds of things and may even wonder about them ourselves. These and more are addressed in Pastor Mark Paustian’s book, “Prepared to Answer.” The book is provided at no cost for everyone in the class, and 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. Invite a friend and join Pastor Koehler for this study which is helpful for us and for those we have discussions with about such things. This class meets on Thursdays at 9:00 AM in the Grace-Tucson Fellowship Hall.

Time Out for Moms: Saturday

Our Child Learning Center (CLC) at Grace-Sahuarita is hosting a “Time Out for Moms” this Saturday, August 26, from 9:00 to 11:00 AM in the CLC gym. We’ll begin this Self-Care Saturday with coffee and breakfast followed by a craft and a presentation about Pilates. Pastor Heiman will also lead a devotion on parenting followed by fellowship time. Moms from all sites are welcome to attend but please RSVP so we can plan accordingly. You may contact Jen Rickling, CLC Assistant Director, at (520)848-4630 or jrickling@GraceLutheranSAZ.org.

Foodie Club at Esmond Station School

Last year, teachers at Esmond Station School (our worship location in Vail) started an after-school “Foodie Club” for the students to teach them about different cultural meals. We would like to continue to help out and sponsor this group! Items needed this year include: small cutting boards, small knives, disinfecting wipes, paper plates, paper bowls, and plastic spoons. Food supplies such as sugar, flour, and seasonings are always helpful. VISA or grocery store gift cards are welcome. Items can be dropped off in the Grace Central office. If you have any questions, please contact Laura Hodgson at irish_mom@live.com or call/text her at (520)780-1743.

Service Opportunity: English Classes

Grace-Tucson’s English Classes will begin on Tuesday, September 5, and could use your help! Show Christ’s love to those learning and improving their English skills by teaching classes (training provided), playing with children, partnering in conversation, or serving snacks. An informational meeting will be held on Tuesday, August 29 at 6:30 PM in the Grace-Tucson Fellowship Hall. Classes are held in that same location on Tuesday evenings from 6:30 to 8:30 PM. If you are interested, contact Pastor Patoka at (520)623-6633 or RevTLP@GraceLutheranSAZ.org.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Workday: September 2

We will be holding a workday on Saturday, September 2, from 7:00 to 11:00 AM. We will be working in the Fellowship Hall cleaning the fresh air intake covers and all the plastic light covers as well as cleaning all the windows. If you’d like, please bring paper towels or lint-free rags and glass cleaner. Everything else will be provided. If you have questions, please contact Facilities Coordinator, Rick Street at (520)909-2126 or ri1012ck@yahoo.com.

Everyone Outreach 1 Year Later!

The 46 Grace members from Grace-Tucson who participated in the Everyone Outreach workshop last year are invited to a lunch after church on Sunday, September 10. A Discussion of “What We Did Last Year. What Have We Done Since Then? What Will We Do Going Forward?” will start at 11:30 AM and finish by 1:30 PM. Please RSVP on the sheets in the Fellowship Hall or by calling the church office at (520)623-6633.

Service Opportunity: TCM Bible Study Refreshments

Beginning September 10, WELS Tucson Campus Ministry (TCM) will gather its college-aged adults in Sunday evening Bible studies. We will see what the Bible says about the 7 Deadly Sins and how to fight against them. Would you like to provide our refreshments? If you are interested in providing baked goods, snacks, appetizers, or finger foods at no cost to you, contact Campus Pastor Tim (welstcm@welstcm.com).

MttC Outreach Event - Independence Day Fiesta: September 16

Mission to the Children (MttC) invites you to help share Christ's love with bilingual families in southern Tucson. MttC is hosting an Independence Day Fiesta on Saturday, September 16, from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Kennedy Park in Ramada #5 (Mission and Ajo). If you are interested in canvassing, decorating, setting up, taking down, serving food, face painting, making new friends, running carnival-style games, playing with children, or making a donation, contact MttC Office Manager Nicole Scheuerlein at (520)934-2512 or info@missiontothechildren.org.

Crafters Needed!

The Women of Grace will host a craft fair in conjunction with the all-site Roast Beef Dinner this fall. Anyone interested in donating hand-made crafts, please let Joyce Long know at (520)405-5133 or hopalong47@gmail.com. This year’s dinner and craft fair will be held on Saturday, November 11, in the Grace-Tucson Fellowship Hall. Please keep all items at home until directed to bring them to the Tucson Fellowship Hall. Watch for additional details as the date gets closer.

LWMS Rally: October 14

Ladies, mark your calendars for the Lutheran Women’s Missionary Society (LWMS) Fall Rally on Saturday, October 14, from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM at Our Savior Lutheran Church in Bylas, AZ (295 W. US Highway 70). Pastors Eric Hartzell and John Hartmann will be speaking to us about past and current mission work. Registration is due by October 9 and can be completed online at grandcanyonlwms.org. Paper copies of the registration form can be found on the bulletin board in the Fellowship Hall.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Grace’s Bible-based Counselor

Cinda Drescher is Grace’s Bible-based Counselor. She is on staff at Grace and works in the counseling building located in the Grace-Tucson parking lot. She typically works at the counseling building two days each week. To schedule an appointment, it is easiest to text her at (520)58104714 or email at Cinda@GraceLutheranSAZ.org. Because she is on staff at Grace and supported by the congregation’s Ministry Spending Plan, there is no charge for anyone who makes an appointment with her. She is happy to meet with anyone whether they are members of Grace/WELS or not. Cinda not only has a WELS Bible-based Therapist certification, she holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Social Work, a Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology, along with certifications in Trauma and Domestic Violence.

Grow in Grace Class

Would you like to learn more about our risen Savior, about the Bible that tells us about him, and about what Grace Lutheran Church believes and teaches? Our congregation offers a series of Bible-based lessons called Grow in Grace. Grow in Grace also serves as our membership class for those who may be interested in joining the church. If you would be interested in scheduling a Grow in Grace Class, please speak to one of the Pastors, or register your interest at GraceLutheranSAZ.org/GIG

Helping Hands

Sometimes you could just use a helping hand! Do you have a talent or service that you could offer to our fellow Grace members who could use some help (at a minimal cost or free)? Just a few ideas: outdoor work, computer work, sewing/mending, handyman, cooking, organizing, transportation to appointments, etc. We’re sure there are many more! If you would like to help, please fill out a Helping Hands card found on the bulletin board outside of the Library in the Fellowship Hall. The offers we have already received are posted on the bulletin board as well.

We have some great events coming up this year! Don’t miss out on the following activities! Watch for more details as each date draws closer.

Saturday, September 23: CLC Birthday Party & Church Picnic

Saturday, October 7: Spanferkelfest (Pig Roast)

Saturday, October 21: Booth at Vailfest

Sunday, October 29: Area Reformation Service

Friday, November 10: Men’s Pints 4 Pink Fundraiser

Saturday, November 11: Roast Beef Dinner & Craft Fair

Friday, December 8: Carols in the Courtyard

Saturday, December 16: Caroling in the Park (Vail)

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 August 20 - August 27

OFF-SITE EVENT

Stay Up to Date

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

One Church. Four Sites.

Proclaiming the love of Jesus in Southern Arizona since 1911.

Grace-Tucson and Central Office 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-Sahuarita

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

Director Laura Heiman director@gracelutheransaz.org

Assistant Director Jen Rickling jrickling@gracelutheransaz.org

Assistant Office Manager—Shirley Zanotti

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)581-4714

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