THE ELEVENTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST
G E L C S , A A 4, 2024
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 worship service 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. Those wishing to leave an offering can do so at the exit today or give online at GraceLutheranSAZ.org/give. (You can also scan the QR code to the right to access the online giving page.)
Today we are using elements from the Christian Worship hymnal. You will find these blue worship books in the hymnal racks in each row. Most of the worship service is printed in this worship folder. You will be asked to open your hymnal to sing the final hymn today.
OUR WORSHIP
SERIES MEANINGFUL MINISTRY
“Ministry” is one of those churchy words that is often used, yet perhaps not fully understood. Ministry comes from the Latin word for “service.” Ministry involves serving others with love, compassion, and empathy. Helping someone with physical needs is sometimes called “compassion ministry.” Helping someone with their spiritual needs, sharing the good news of Christ, is generally called “gospel ministry.” We misunderstand ministry if we think of it as something only ministers do. While pastors are called to perform gospel ministry on behalf of others, ultimately every believer is called by God to reflect Christ-like love and share the message of salvation as God provides those opportunities.
In this worship series we will see our efforts to meet the needs of those God brings into our sphere of influence as meaningful ministry. In our service to them, those people see God’s love and God sees our faith.
OUR THEME FOR TODAY FEAR NOT, FOR THE LORD IS WITH YOU
Shortly before he ascended, Jesus told his followers they were to engage in meaningful ministry to work their way through the world, sharing the good news of salvation. Our loving Lord knew that was a big and often intimidating task. So, his next words were a promise, “Surely I am with you always” (Matthew 28:20). God’s people still need to hear that promise.
For several weeks, we have been discussing the reality that the Lord of the Church has called all believers to meaningful ministry. Ministry will come with challenges. It can cause fears to arise: the fear of rejection, the fear of inadequacy, the fear of persecution. So, listen again to your Savior. “I am with you always.” We conclude our series on meaningful ministry empowered by that gracious promise.
Next week we will begin a three-week series entitled “I Am the Bread of Life.”
+ ORDER OF WORSHIP +
WELCOME
OPENING HYMN My Hope Is Built on Nothing Less Christian Worship 563
Text: Edward Mote, 1797–1874, alt. Tune: John Stainer, 1840–1901, alt. Text and tune: Public domain.
Please stand
INVOCATION
Minister: In the name of the Father and of the Son (+) and of the Holy Spirit.
Congregation: Amen.
Psalm 32:1-2
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.
“Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed.”
James 5:16
Christ gave the authority to forgive the sins of penitent sinners to his church:
“Whenever you forgive people’s sins, they are forgiven.”
John 20:23
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.
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.
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.
Kyrie
PRAYER OF THE DAY
The Lord be with you. And also with you.
Let us pray.
Almighty and most merciful God, the protector of all who trust in you, strengthen our faith, and give us courage to believe that in your love you will rescue us from all adversities; through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.
Christians praise God by proclaiming the great things he has done to accomplish our rescue from sin. “Glory to God in the Highest” has been a Christian song of worship since the fourth century.
Please be seated
Text: Michael A. Perry © 1982 Hope Publishing Co. Used by permission: OneLicense no. 710199. Tune: Joseph Barnby. Public domain.
1 Timothy 3:1-7
+ INSTALLATION OF A PASTORAL VICAR +
Brothers and sisters, our church body has established ministerial education schools so that Christ’s church may have qualified men and women to serve God’s people.
Noah has completed a portion of the training we consider necessary for service in the pastoral ministry. To further his training, he has been called to our congregation to gain experience in the regular work of the ministry under a supervising pastor. He will preach and preside at worship; he will teach our children, teens, and adults; he will reach out to the lost in our community and visit those among us who are sick and dying. He will diligently study the Scriptures, so that he may learn to proclaim faithfully the law and the gospel to the people the Savior loves. He will observe how Christians and their pastors work together for the benefit of Christ’s kingdom.
The pastor speaks to the vicar:
Inspired by the Holy Spirit, St. Paul has instructed the church that those who are called to serve in the public ministry of the gospel must possess certain qualifications. He wrote in his first letter to Timothy:
“Whoever aspires to be an overseer desires a noble task. Now the overseer is to be above reproach, faithful to his wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, not given to drunkenness, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money. He must manage his own family well and see that his children obey him, and he must do so in a manner worthy of full respect. He must not be a recent convert, or he may become conceited and fall under the same judgment as the devil. He must also have a good reputation with outsiders, so that he will not fall into disgrace and into the devil’s trap.”
Vicar Nordlie you have been assigned and called to serve as a vicar under my guidance in this congregation. This is an important part of your preparation for the pastoral ministry. I now ask you before God and his people: Are you willing to apply yourself faithfully to your work and carry out the responsibilities given to you?
I am, and I ask God to help me.
INSTALLATION
Noah Nordlie, I install you as a vicar at Grace Lutheran Church in the name of the Father and of the (+) Son and of the Holy Spirit.
PRAYER
Eternal God, pour out your blessing on Vicar Nordlie, who desires to serve your people as a pastor. Deepen his love for you as he recalls your grace to him. Strengthen his confidence in your Word and sacraments. Instill in him a deep desire to help those who have been redeemed by your Son and give him joy as he honors you in his service to your people. Keep in your care all those students who are preparing for the public ministry of the gospel. Raise up a new generation of workers who will go into your world proclaiming the good news of your love; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
DISMISSAL/BLESSING
The pastor speaks to the vicar: Go, then, and take up the work to which you have been called. Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth. The Lord lead you to grow in faithfulness, wisdom, and love. May he bless you and make you to be a blessing to many as you learn and labor among us. Amen.
+ INSTALLATION OF A TEACHER +
Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ said to his church: “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.”
The Savior loves children and desires to share all his promises with them. Our early childhood ministry provides believers with a unique opportunity to reach out to families in our community and nourish the faith of children that they may walk with Christ throughout their lives.
The minister speaks to the teacher: Dear friend,
Grace Lutheran Church has called you to serve as a teacher in the public ministry of the gospel.
As a servant of Christ, you are to carry out all your activities in the light of God’s Word and lead our students to know God’s holy law and saving gospel. You are to keep them in your prayers and guide and guard their spiritual growth.
Matthew 28:18-20
Corinthians 3:5
You are to set aside time for personal study of the Scriptures so that you may grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. You are to strive to be an example of Christian faith and life so that others may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.
You are to be prepared to witness to Christ to the parents of your children so that the message of law and gospel may be consistent in their home and school. You are to serve alongside the other workers in this ministry with love, patience, and respect.
In all your tasks and responsibilities, our Lord Jesus equips you with the gospel of the forgiveness of sins, the gift that makes you truly competent as a servant of Christ. St. Paul wrote: “Not that we are competent in ourselves to claim anything for ourselves, but our competence comes from God.”
In keeping with the Word and will of the Lord, I ask you before God and his people:
Do you believe that the canonical books of the Old and New Testaments are the inspired and inerrant Word of God and the only source of truth for faith and ministry? I do.
Do you accept the three Ecumenical Creeds the Apostles’, the Nicene, and the Athanasian as faithful testimonies to the truth of the Holy Scriptures, and do you reject all the errors that they condemn?
I do.
Do you solemnly promise that all your service in its various forms will conform to the Holy Scriptures and the Lutheran Confessions? I do.
Will you endeavor to live a life that reflects the love God has for you so that all may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven?
I will, and I ask God to help me.
Are you willing to carry out this work according to the grace that God gives?
I am, and I ask God to help me.
The minister speaks to the congregation: Friends in Christ,
You have heard the promises spoken by the ones you have called. I encourage you to receive her with joy and remember what the Word of God calls you to do.
Work together with her for the benefit of the Lord’s kingdom, so that your shared service may bring spiritual blessings to the Savior’s people.
Support her as she teaches the young, so that they may be won for Christ and brought up in the training and instruction of the Lord.
Keep her and her work in your prayers, so that her ministry may be blessed and that she might carry out her work with joy.
Provide for her physical needs, for the Savior says, “The worker deserves his wages.”
Honor and love her, as St. Peter urges: “All of you, be like-minded, be sympathetic, love one another, be compassionate and humble.”
I now ask you in the presence of God:
Are you willing to receive Maddie as a servant of Christ? Will you show her love and honor and support her with your gifts and prayers? If so, answer: We will, and we ask God to help us.
We will, and we ask God to help us.
The almighty and merciful God strengthen you to do what you have promised.
INSTALLATION
Maddie Nordlie, I install you as a teacher at Grace Lutheran Child Learning Center in the name of the Father and of the (+) Son and of the Holy Spirit.
The Lord pour out on you his Holy Spirit for the work you have been called to do that you may faithfully carry out all your duties and responsibilities with the Word of God as your confidence and guide.
PRAYER
Let us pray.
Almighty God, source of all wisdom, we thank you for the opportunity we have to reach out in our community with our early childhood ministry. May your life-giving Word be the center of all teaching and every activity so that little children and their families may come to know and believe your holy law and saving gospel. Equip our new teacher with spiritual wisdom that she may faithfully carry out the duties of her call. Give us zeal to add our own efforts to the goals of this ministry so that many more may come to serve you throughout their lives and finally inherit eternal life; through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Amen.
The minister says to the teacher:
The Lord bless you and make your ministry a blessing to others.
Luke 10:7 1 Peter 3:8
Elisha’s ministry had resulted in Elisha and his servant being surrounded by an enemy army. But they didn’t need to fear, for the L and his mighty army of angels were with them.
FIRST READING
+ THE WORD +
2 Kings 6:8-17
8Now when the king of Aram was waging war against Israel, he would make plans with his officials, saying, “My camp will be at such and such a place.”
9But the man of God would send a message to the king of Israel, saying, “Be careful when you pass this place because the Arameans are going down there.” 10So the king of Israel would send scouts to the place that the man of God had pointed out. So the man of God warned him, and he was kept safe and not just once or twice.
11The king of Aram was enraged because of this. He summoned his officials and said to them, “Won't you tell me who of us is for the king of Israel?”
12One of his officials said, “No, my lord the king. It is Elisha, the prophet in Israel, who tells the king of Israel the words which you speak in your bedroom.”
13Then he said, “Go and see where he is. Then I'll send men and capture him.” He was told, “Dothan is where he is.”
14So he sent horses and chariots and a strong force there. They came at night and surrounded the city. 15When the man of God's servant got up early and went out, there were soldiers, horses, and chariots surrounding the city. So his attendant said to Elisha, “Oh no, my lord! What will we do?”
16He answered, “Don't be afraid, for those who are with us are more than those who are with them.”
17Then Elisha prayed and said, “O L , open his eyes so that he can see.” Then the L opened the servant's eyes, and he saw that the hills were full of horses and chariots of fire, all around Elisha.
The Word of the Lord. Thanks be to God.
This hymn echoes the words of Psalm 90.
SECOND READING
2 Timothy 4:6-8, 16-18
6You see, I am already being poured out like a drink offering, and the time of my departure has come. 7I have fought the good fight; I have finished the race; I have kept the faith. 8From now on, there is reserved for me the crown of righteousness. The Lord, the righteous Judge, will give it to me on that day, and not only to me but also to everyone who loved his appearing.
16At my first hearing, no one came to my defense, but everyone deserted me. May it not be counted against them. 17But the Lord stood by me and strengthened me, so that through me the message would be fully proclaimed and all the Gentiles would hear it, and I was rescued from the lion's mouth. 18The Lord will rescue me from every evil work and will bring me safely into his heavenly kingdom. To him be the glory forever and ever. Amen.
The Word of the Lord.
Thanks be to God.
Please stand
GOSPEL ACCLAMATION
Alleluia. Jesus spoke with them and said, “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.” Alleluia.
Mark 6:50
Paul knows that soon he will be executed for performing gospel ministry. Yet he is not afraid, for he knows the Lord Jesus has always been by his side.
We stand out of respect for the words of Christ, our King. The Gospel Acclamation points toward the words of the Gospel.
Text: Isaac Watts, 1674–1748, abr., alt. Tune: William Croft, 1678–1727. Text and tune: Public domain.
Before engaging in ministry at Gennesaret, Jesus comes to the disciples, dispelling their fears with his comforting and powerful presence.
45Immediately Jesus made his disciples get into the boat and go ahead to the other side, to Bethsaida, while he himself dismissed the crowd. 46After he had sent them off, he went up the mountain to pray.
47When it was evening, the boat was in the middle of the sea, and Jesus was alone on the land. 48He saw them straining at the oars, because the wind was against them. About the fourth watch of the night, he went to them, walking on the sea. He was ready to pass by them. 49When they saw him walking on the sea, they thought he was a ghost, and they cried out. 50They all saw him and were terrified. Immediately he spoke with them and said, “Take courage! It is I. Do not be afraid.” 51Then he climbed up into the boat with them, and the wind stopped. They were completely amazed, 52because they had not understood about the loaves. Instead, their hearts were hardened.
53When they had crossed over, they landed at Gennesaret and anchored there. 54As soon as they stepped out of the boat, people recognized Jesus. 55They ran around that whole region and began to bring sick people on their stretchers to where they heard he was. 56Wherever he entered villages, cities, or the countryside, they were laying sick people in the marketplaces and pleading with him that they might just touch the edge of his garment. And all who touched it were made well.
The Gospel of the Lord.
Praise be to you, O Christ.
CHILDREN’S MESSAGE & GREETING
While the children are coming forward please greet your neighbor and fill out the Friendship Register located in the red folder in your row and pass it along. Thank you!
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.
Please be seated
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.
During the singing of this hymn, children ages 1-8 are excused to attend Children’s Church in the CLC Building. Parents can pick-up their children there following the service.
SERMON 2 Timothy 4:6-8
Endure to the End Because the Lord is With You
Text: Carolina Sandell Berg, 1832–1903; tr. Robert Leaf, 1936–2005 © 1992 Augsburg Fortress. Used by permission: OneLicense no. 710199. Tune: Oskar Ahnfelt, 1813–1882. Public domain.
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.
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.
PRAYER OF THE CHURCH
Loving God and Lord, you created the universe that surrounds us and the globe on which we live. You control all things through your Son, who sits at your right hand in glory.
Comfort us with the promise of your eternal presence.
Give your Word power as it works in our hearts and minds. Clear away our confusion, and demolish our doubts. Send your Spirit to strengthen both our confidence in your promises and our desire to live according to your will.
Take away our love of sinning, and restore us each day by your grace.
The signs of the times warn us that the end of time is near. Protect us from scoffers who sneer at your truth. Spare us and Christians around the world from all forms of hate and persecution.
Give us courage to carry the cross with patience and joy.
Instill in the hearts of our children a desire to follow you as they prepare for future days. Help them distinguish between what is passing and what is eternal, between instant thrills and lasting joy. Encourage more young people to prepare for service in the public ministry of the gospel.
Mold us and move us to be good examples for our youth.
Hold in your care, Lord, those who are experiencing physical or emotional pain and all who are afflicted by disease or facing death. Pour out your compassion on the grieving, and comfort the mourners who miss someone they loved.
Move us to pray for these brothers and sisters and to help when we can.
Hear us, Lord, as we pray in silence.
Silent prayer
Whether we pray together or alone, you have promised to hear and answer us. Give us patience to accept your blessings in whatever way you send them. In your love and wisdom, prepare us for the day when you will take us to be with you forever. Hear us for Jesus’ sake. Amen.
Please stand
+ THE SACRAMENT +
PREFACE
The Lord be with you. And also with you.
Lift up your hearts. We lift them up to the Lord.
Let us give thanks to the Lord our God. It is right to give him thanks and praise.
It is truly good and right that we should at all times and in all places give you thanks, O Lord, holy Father, almighty and everlasting God, through Jesus Christ our Lord, who 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:
The Preface to the Sacrament is one of the oldest parts of the Christian liturgy, dating back to the first century. As we prepare to receive Holy Communion, we are united with the Body of Christ, in an unbroken bond with Christians through the millennia.
The Prophet Isaiah was given a vision of heaven, where seraphim praised God. In the Sanctus we welcome Jesus with our hosannas and praise.
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.
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.
Text: Michael D. Schultz © 2021 Northwestern Publishing House. Used by permission: OneLicense no. 710199. Tune: Welsh. Public domain.
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.
O CHRIST, LAMB OF GOD
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.
Please be seated
John the Baptist pointed to Jesus and said, “Behold the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” We sing the Agnus Dei confident that Jesus has borne our sins and freely gives us forgiveness and peace in the Sacrament.
Agnus Dei
Michael D.
Personal prayers for before and after communing are now available on printed labels on the inside cover of the hymnals.
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.
Psalm 106:1
Please stand
1 Corinthians 11:26
SPOKEN RESPONSES
+ THANKSGIVING +
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 you thanks, O Lord, for the foretaste of the heavenly banquet you have given us in this Sacrament. Through this gift you have fed our faith, nourished our hope, and strengthened our love. By your Spirit, help us to live as your holy people until that day when you will receive us as your guests at the wedding supper of the Lamb, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.
Amen.
The blessing of Aaron has been spoken over God’s people for over 3,500 years. The L said, “In this way they will put my name on [them], and I will bless them.” Numbers 6:27
BLESSING
The Lord bless you and keep you. The Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you. The Lord look on you with favor and (+) give you peace.
Amen.
Text: Julie K. Hausmann, 1825–1901; tr. Lutheran Book of Worship, 1978 © 1978 Lutheran Book of Worship, admin. Augsburg Fortress. Used by permission: OneLicense no. 710199 Tune: P. Friedrich Silcher, 1789-1860. Public domain.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Friendship Register
We would like to have a record of both members and guests who are worshiping with us. Please sign the red Friendship Register book located along the center aisle in the hymnal rack.
Children’s Church
Children ages 1-8 will be dismissed from our worship service today during the hymn before the sermon to attend Children’s Church. Parents, following worship, please pick your child up from the gymnasium in the CLC building.
Sunday Morning Bible Study
Luther’s Large Catechism is a short summary and epitome of the entire Holy Scriptures. Luther encourages all Christians to daily exercise themselves in the Catechism. With that encouragement, we are looking at the Large Catechism in our Sunday morning Bible study. If you haven’t been to Bible study in a while, now is a great time to start. Please join us in the CLC gymnasium on Sundays at 9:00 AM.
Vicar Installation & Welcome
Our vicar, Noah Nordlie, and his wife Maddie are being installed into their positions during our service this morning. Vicar Nordlie will be serving for one year here at our Sahuarita location under Pastor Heiman, and Maddie will be teaching at the Child Learning Center. Welcome to Grace!
Please join us for lunch in the CLC gymnasium following our service.
Summer Fun Night: Today
The final Summer Fun Night will take place today, August 4, beginning at 6:30 PM in the Grace-Tucson Fellowship Hall. Our theme is “Back to School.” Come test your knowledge with games of trivia on all different topics. Snacks and drinks will be provided. Members from all sites are encouraged to attend and bring a friend!
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Funeral Service: Tuesday
Jean Lorenzen, member of Redeemer and friend to many at Grace, was called to her heavenly home on July 3, 2024. A viewing will be held at Adair Funeral Home Dodge Chapel (1050 N. Dodge Blvd.) on Monday, August 5, from 4:00 to 7:00 PM. A funeral service will be held at Redeemer Lutheran Church (8845 N. Silverbell Rd.) on Tuesday, August 6, at 10:00 AM followed by a light lunch. A final committal ceremony will be held at East Lawn Cemetery (5801 E Grant Rd.) beginning at 1:30 PM. Please keep Jean’s family in your prayers.
Church History Bible Study: Wednesday at Grace-Tucson
Join us on Wednesdays for our study of Church History. We are studying the development of the Wisconsin Synod in the 1890s and early 1900s, including a federation and then merger with the synods of Minnesota and Michigan. Even if you haven’t attended this class before, this is an excellent time to join. We study together in the Grace-Tucson Fellowship Hall at 10:00 AM and repeat the same material at 7:00 PM. Join us for whichever time fits your schedule best!
NEW Midweek Bible Study: Wednesday
Old Testament Prophecies about Jesus: While Scholars widely debate the number of prophecies concerning Jesus that were made by prophets in the Old Testament, it is clear that all prophecies about the life and ministry of Jesus Christ were fulfilled. This study will cover the main categories of prophetic words in the Old Testament about the Messiah. We will see Christ through the eyes of Old Testament believers and apply what was spoken about him in the past to our lives today. Please join us on Wednesdays at 10:00 AM in the church entryway.
Women’s Bible Study: Thursday at Grace-Tucson
What do we know about the 12 men Jesus chose to follow him and then sent out to share the gospel after his ascension into heaven? What does the Bible say? What do historical accounts tell us about them? Get to know “The 12” as you never have before, and learn valuable lessons about your life of following Jesus. Pastor Koehler leads this study on Thursday mornings at 9:00 AM in the Fellowship Hall. Make plans to join him, and invite a friend to join you!
Time Out for Moms: Saturday
Grace-Sahuarita is hosting a Time Out for Moms this Saturday, August 10, beginning at 9:00 AM. Ladies will be “Blooming Where They are Planted” with a devotion by Pastor Heiman, a light breakfast and coffee, and a blooming fun craft. Please sign up at the CLC Reception Desk or contact Jen Rickling at jrickling@gracelutheransaz.org or (520)848-4630. All moms are welcome to enjoy a relaxing morning!
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Ladies’ Fellowship Group: August 15
The Ladies’ Fellowship Group will meet Thursday, August 15, at 10:15 AM in the Grace-Tucson Fellowship Hall. They will watch the movie “Alison’s Choice.” Please bring a snack to share.
When the ladies meet in September, they will be discussing the book “A Skeleton in God’s Closet” by Paul L. Maier. You are asked to have the book read beforehand. The book is available in our library at Grace-Tucson as well as from Amazon (paperback $11.59 or Kindle $6.73) and Concordia Publishing House ($12.99). Contact Lois Thornton at (520)323-8772 or vthornto2@gmail.com with any questions. Ladies from all Grace sites are welcome to attend.
LWMS Fall Retreat
Ladies, mark your calendars for the LWMS Fall Retreat from October 4 through October 6. The retreat will take place at Emmanuel Pines Camp in Prescott, AZ. Online registration and payment is already available at grandcanyonlwms.org. The fee includes two nights lodging, two breakfasts, one lunch, and two dinners. Share in devotional and Bible study time with other WELS women from Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas. Speakers include Gary & Beth Evans from Central Africa Medical Mission and Erik & Staci Landwehr. All ladies are welcome!
Grace Child Learning Center and Fry’s
Our Child Learning Center (CLC) is enrolled in the Community Rewards Program at Fry’s. This program allows a percentage of your spending to be donated to the CLC. We would greatly appreciate it if you could create an account and link it to our organization. The link is: https:// www.frysfood.com/account/communityrewards and our organization code is CV025. If you have any questions, please contact the CLC office at (520)848-4630. Feel free to share this with friends who are not members of Grace too!
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 Pastor Heiman, or register your interest at GraceLutheranSAZ.org/GIG.
SAHUARITA
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 August 4 - August 11
TUCSON
Adult Bible Study: Large Catechism............................... 9:00a Children’s Sunday School ..............................................9:00a Worship Service with communion 10:00a Wednesday Adult Bible Study ............................................................10:00 Old Testament Prophecies about Jesus
Time Out for Moms.........................................................9:00a
Sunday, August 11
Adult Bible Study: Large Catechism 9:00a Children’s Sunday School ..............................................9:00a Worship Service............................................................10:00a Fellowship following worship
VAIL
Adult Bible Study: Baptism .............................................9:00a Worship Service with communion 10:00a Fellowship following worship
Thursday Adult Bible Study: Hebrews ............................................6:30p
Sunday, August 11
Adult Bible Study: Baptism .............................................9:00a Worship Service............................................................10:00a Fellowship following worship
ONLINE Today
Adult Bible Study (Tucson) 9:00a Worship Services (Sahuarita & Tucson) 10:00a
Sunday, August 11
Adult Bible Study (Tucson).............................................9:00a Worship Services (Sahuarita & Tucson) 10:00a
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 Locations.
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
Administrative Assistant—Debbie Koehler assistant@gracelutheransaz.org
Worship Coordinator—Beth Kassulke music@gracelutheransaz.org
Grace-Benson and Grace-Vail
Benson
451 W. Duane St., Benson, AZ 85602
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
Grace-Sahuarita
75 W. Sahuarita Rd, Sahuarita, AZ 85629 (520)578-3538
Pastor Ryan A. Heiman revrah@gracelutheransaz.org
Vicar Noah Nordlie vicnpn@gracelutheransaz.org
Child Learning Center (520) 848-4630 receptionist@gracelutheransaz.org GraceLutheranSahuaritaCLC.com
Director Laura Heiman director@gracelutheransaz.org
Assistant Director—Jen Rickling jrickling@gracelutheransaz.org
Child Learning Center Mission Teachers
Maddie Nordlie, Toddlers mnordlie@gracelutheransaz.org
Vicki Smith, 3-Year Olds vsmith@gracelutheransaz.org
Theresa Pratt, Preschool tpratt@gracelutheransaz.org
Chris Leathers, Toddler/After School Care cleathers@gracelutheransaz.org
Bible-Based Counselor—Cinda Drescher Office Assistant—Cora Stuhr cinda@gracelutheransaz.org office@gracelutheransaz.org (520)581-4714
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.