THE SEVENTEENTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST
G E L C T , A S 15, 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 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 WORSHIP SERIES THE NEED FOR FOLLOWERSHIP
“We need better leadership!” Have you ever said that? Perhaps you were frustrated with the direction being taken by some elected official or by management at your workplace or by the coach of your favorite team. You were frustrated because you know that no matter how many resources an organization has, it will flounder if leaders do not lead well: providing direction, training, motivation, coordination, encouragement, and even grace. Leadership is extremely important. And so, there are times we lament, “We need better leadership!”
Jesus Christ is the leader of our congregation, our home, our lives. And his leadership is perfect in every way. Therefore, when things are amiss in any of those arenas, what is needed is not better leadership, but better followership. In this series, we ask Christ to empower us with his Spirit so that we might better follow his lead. May we better reflect the beauty of his life, better make his priorities our own, and better serve our God and neighbor. Our worship during this series will follow this path:
September 1 Followers of Christ Obey His Law from the Heart
September 8 Followers of Christ See the True Purpose of His Power
September 15 Followers of Christ Are Armed for Battle
September 22 Followers of Christ Are Humble Servants
September 29 Followers of Christ Have Powerful Allies
October 6 Followers of Christ Know How to Love Their Families
October 13 Followers of Christ Maintain Proper Priorities
Octobers 20 Followers of Christ Make Selfless Sacrifices
+ ORDER OF WORSHIP +
WELCOME
OPENING HYMN Praise the One Who Breaks the Darkness Christian Worship 517
PRESERVICE
Onward, Christian Soldiers
Arr. Zach Unke
Stand Up, Stand Up for Jesus Arr. Marianne Kim
By Faith
Arr. Lloyd Larson
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
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.
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.
Luke 2:14
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.
GLORY TO GOD IN THE HIGHEST
Gloria ALL:
This song continues on the next page.
Vocalist: Lord Jesus Christ, only Son of the Father, Lord God, Lamb of God, you take away the sin of the world; have mercy on us. You are seated at the right hand of the Father; receive our prayer. For
ALL:
Tune: David Kauffman; William Gokelman © 2010, 2021 GFTSMUSIC Publishing Company, Inc., admin. Music Services. Used by permission: OneLicense no. 710199.
+ THE WORD +
PRAYER OF THE DAY
The Lord be with you. And also with you.
Let us pray.
Almighty God, you see that we have no power to defend ourselves. Guard and keep us both outwardly and inwardly from all adversities that may happen to the body and all evil thoughts that may assault and hurt the soul; through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.
Amen.
In a showdown between Elijah and the prophets of the idol Baal, the L makes it clear that all the combined forces of hell are nothing compared to the almighty power of God.
Please be seated
This reading continues on the next page.
FIRST READING
1 Kings 18:21-39
21Then Elijah said to all the people, “How long will you stagger around on two crutches? If the L is God, follow him. If Baal is God, follow him.” But the people did not answer him a single word.
22Then Elijah said to the people, “I am the only one left of the L ’ s prophets, but the prophets of Baal total four hundred fifty men.
23Provide two bulls for us. Let them choose one bull for themselves and cut it up and place it on the firewood, but they are not to light the fire. I will prepare the other bull and place it on the firewood, but I will not light the fire. 24Then you will call on the name of your god, and I will call on the name of the L . The god who answers with fire, he is God.”
All the people said, “This proposal is good.”
25Then Elijah said to the prophets of Baal, “Choose for yourselves one bull, and you go first because there are so many of you. Call on the name of your god. But do not light the fire.”
26So they took the bull which had been given to them and prepared it. Then they called on the name of Baal from morning until noon, “Baal! Answer us!” But there was not a sound. No one answered. So they staggered around the altar which they had made.
27When noon came, Elijah mocked them: “Shout louder! He is a god, isn’t he? He may be deep in thought or busy or on a journey. Perhaps he is asleep and will wake up!” 28So they cried out with a loud voice, and according to their practice they cut themselves with daggers and spears until their blood flowed. 29After noon, they kept up a prophetic frenzy until the time of the evening sacrifice, but there was no sound. No one answered. There was no response.
30Then Elijah said to all the people, “Come here to me.” So they came to him, and he repaired the altar of the L , which had been torn down. 31Elijah took twelve stones, one for each of the tribes of the sons of Jacob, to whom the word of the L had come and had proclaimed, “Your name shall be Israel.” 32He built the stones into an altar in the name of the L . Around it he made a trench big enough to hold twenty-five pounds of seed. 33He arranged the wood, cut up the bull, and placed it on the wood.
Then he said, “Fill four jars with water and pour it on the sacrifice and on the wood.” 34Then he said, “Do it again.” So they did it again. Then he said, “Do it a third time.” So they did it a third time. 35The water flowed all around the altar. It even filled the trench.
36When the time of the evening sacrifice had arrived, Elijah the prophet stood up and said, “O L , the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Israel, let it be known this day that you are God in Israel and that I am your servant and that I have done all these things by your word. 37Answer me, L ! Answer me so that this people will know that you, O L , are God and that you are turning their hearts back to you.”
38Fire from the L fell on the sacrifice and on the wood, the stones, and the dirt. It even licked up the water in the trench. 39When all the people saw this, they fell on their knees and said, “The L , he is God! The L , he is God!”
The Word of the Lord. Thanks be to God.
The Church sings Psalm 46 in services that celebrate the power of the Lord in the face of every evil attack. Of this Psalm, Martin Luther said, “We sing Psalm 46 to praise the only true God for being with us. He wonderfully upholds his Word and Christendom against the very gates of hell, against the rage of every demon, the world, the flesh, sin and death. Our little spring is a free-flowing source of living water.”
PSALM OF THE DAY—If God Is for Us
Christian Worship Psalter
The vocalist will sing the first refrain and verses 1 and 2. Please join in the remaining refrains and the third verse as indicated.
Refrain (Vocalist 1st time, Congregation remaining refrains)
Verses (Vocalist verses 1 and 2, Congregation verse 3):
The Psalm continues on the next page.
SECOND READING
Ephesians 6:10-18
10Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11Put on the full armor of God, so that you can stand against the schemes of the Devil.
12For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the world rulers of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. 13For this reason, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to take a stand on the evil day and, after you have done everything, to stand. 14Stand, then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness fastened in place, 15and with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace tied to your feet like sandals. 16At all times hold up the shield of faith, with which you will be able to extinguish all the flaming arrows of the Evil One. 17Also take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.
18At every opportunity, pray in the Spirit with every kind of prayer and petition. Stay alert for the same reason, always persevering in your intercession for all the saints.
The Word of the Lord. Thanks be to God.
Please stand
So that they might be ready for the battle, followers of Christ put on the full armor of God.
We stand out of respect for the words of Christ, our King.
The Gospel Acclamation points toward the words of the Gospel.
As we fight spiritual battles, Jesus assures us that “all things are possible for the one who believes,” that is, the one who relies on Christ, who has already won the war.
ALL:
Vocalist: In you, L , I have taken refuge; let me never be put to shame; deliver me in your righteousness.
Refrain (ALL)
This reading continues on the next page.
14When they returned to the other disciples, they saw a large crowd around them, and some experts in the law were arguing with them. 15As soon as all the people in the crowd saw Jesus, they were very excited and ran to greet him. 16He asked them, “What are you arguing about with them?”
17One man from the crowd answered him, “Teacher, I brought you my son, who has a spirit that makes him unable to speak. 18Wherever it seizes him, it throws him down, and he foams at the mouth, grinds his teeth, and becomes rigid. I asked your disciples to drive it out, but they could not.”
19“O unbelieving generation,” Jesus replied. “How long will I be with you? How long will I put up with you? Bring him to me.”
20They brought the boy to Jesus. As soon as the spirit saw him, it threw the boy into a convulsion. He fell on the ground and rolled around, foaming at the mouth.
21Jesus asked the boy’s father, “How long has this been happening to him?”
“From childhood,” he said. 22“It has often thrown him into the fire and into the water to kill him. But if you can do anything, have compassion on us and help us.”
23“If you can?!” Jesus said to him. “All things are possible for the one who believes.”
24The child’s father immediately cried out and said with tears, “I do believe. Help me with my unbelief!”
25When Jesus saw that a crowd was quickly gathering, he rebuked the unclean spirit. “You mute and deaf spirit,” he said, “I command you to come out of him and never enter him again!”
26The spirit screamed, shook the boy violently, and came out. The boy looked so much like a corpse that many of them said, “He’s dead!” 27But Jesus took him by the hand, raised him up, and he stood up.
The Gospel of the Lord. Praise be to you, O Christ.
Please be seated
HYMN OF THE DAY O Church, Arise Christian Worship 870
SERMON Ephesians 6:10-18
You vs. Evil—Are You Ready for the Battle?
This hymn is based on the words of our Second Reading for today.
Please stand
The Nicene Creed was first developed in 325 at the First Council of Nicea. It was written to reaffirm the Biblical teaching of the divinity of Jesus, God’s Son. Like the Apostles’ and Athanasian Creeds, the Nicene Creed is a confession of what the Bible teaches.
CONFESSION OF FAITH
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.
Brief intercessory prayers may be added in a fitting place.
Please be seated
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.
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.
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!
OFFERTORY: From God Can Nothing Move Me Arr. Sandra Eithun
Please stand
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.
PREFACE
The Lord be with you. And also with you.
+ THE SACRAMENT +
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 Prophet Isaiah was given a vision of heaven, where seraphim praised God. In the Sanctus we welcome Jesus with our hosannas and praise.
This song continues on the next page.
HOLY, HOLY, HOLY
Sanctus
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.
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.
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.
Tune: David Kauffman; William Gokelman © 2010 GFTSMUSIC Publishing Company, Inc., admin. Music Services. Used by permission: OneLicense no. 710199.
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.
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.
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.
LAMB OF GOD
Agnus Dei
Tune: David Kauffman; William Gokelman
Please be seated
DISTRIBUTION
The Bible teaches that the Lord’s Supper is a unique communion of Christ and the individual believer as well as a coming together of people who hold to the same beliefs. Because of these Scriptural truths, we practice Member Communion at Grace. Those who are confirmed members of Wisconsin Synod congregations (WELS) are invited to receive the Lord’s Supper with us.
If you are not a WELS member but have an interest in receiving Holy Communion, please speak with the pastor after church today or at another time. We are aware that there are a number of other teachings about Holy Communion, and we want it to be a blessing for you, so we would look forward to sharing with you what God says about this Sacrament.
Prayers for before and after communion can be found on page 18.
Gluten-free communion wafers and grape juice are available for those who for health or medical reason require it. Please see page 18 for more information.
Please stand
COMMUNION MUSIC: Water, Blood, and Spirit Crying Arr. Sandra Eithun
A Mighty Fortress Is Our God
Arr. Anne Krentz Organ
+ THANKSGIVING +
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.
Psalm 106:1
1 Corinthians 11:26
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
POSTLUDE MUSIC:
Reformation Song
Arr. Phillip Magness
Please be seated
ANNOUNCEMENTS
CLOSING HYMN Onward, Christian Soldiers
Sabine
-Gould, 1834–1924, abr., alt. Tune: Arthur S. Sullivan, 1842–1900. Text and tune: Public domain.
Text:
Baring
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.
Prayer Before Communion
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
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.
Fellowship
Following the 10:00 AM service this morning, you are invited to join us in the courtyard and Fellowship Hall for drinks and snacks. We thank Jeanette O’Donald, Nadine Rentschler, and Sandy Weir for hosting this morning. Upcoming available dates are October 27 and all the Sundays in November. Please sign up on the sheet in the Fellowship Hall.
Those Assisting in Worship This Morning
Preacher
Worship Leader............................................................................................
Pastor Ron Koehler
Pastor Nathan Kassulke
Accompanist Teri Guenther
Vocalist.......................................................................................................................Dylan Guenther
Greeters
Donna Malchow, Audrey Nessinger (10:00 AM)
Ushers..........................................................................................Rusty King, Vic Thornton (7:45 AM)
Jon Dongoske, Lucas Guenther, Ferdie Kramm, Rick Street 10:00 AM)
Communion Prep...............................................................................Karen Grorud, Barb Tobiasson Sound and Recording Techs Jeremy Snavely, Danny Koehler, Sam Kassulke
Acknowledgements:
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Altar Flowers
The flowers beautifying our altar this morning were given by Bob and Nadine Rentschler in thanks to God for all their 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 dates include NEXT Sunday, September 22, and October 6, 13, & 20. 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.
Sunday Morning Bible Study
Join us for our Sunday morning Bible Study! “Timely Topics” give us a chance to discuss the church and politics, intelligent design, global warming, and more from a biblical perspective. Today we are considering what God’s Word has to say about global warming and climate change. 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 Fellowship Hall.
Mission to the Children Celebration: Today
Mission to the Children will be celebrating Mexican Independence Day with food, games, crafts, and a worship service this afternoon here at Grace-Tucson. Festivities will begin at 2:00 PM. The Spanish worship service will be held at 4:00 PM followed by a meal in the Fellowship Hall. If you are interested in celebrating with them and worshiping with Mexican refugees or in Spanish, please join us!
TCM Bible Study: Tonight
WELS Tucson Campus Ministry Bible study meets tonight! They will continue with part two of their study and discussion of What Exactly is the Bible & Can I Trust It? College students and college-age non-students are invited to join Pastor Koehler at 7:00 PM in the Student Center, which is located in the lower level of the church at Grace-Tucson. The stairs below the TCM sign on the parking lot side of the church will take you there. If you’d like to share your name and contact info with Pastor Koehler, download the WELS Tucson Campus Ministry app from the App Store or Google Play Store.
Divine Call Declined
Pastor Kassulke, after prayerful consideration and deliberation, has declined the call to serve at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Saginaw, Michigan. 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 his family. 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!
Open Gym: Tuesday at Grace-Sahuarita
Do you enjoy playing basketball and/or volleyball? Test your skills during our adults only, open gym on Tuesdays from 7:00 to 9:00 PM at our Child Learning Center gymnasium in Sahuarita! We are alternating between basketball and volleyball. This Tuesday, September 17, will be basketball. Come for some friendly competition and bring a friend!
Church History Bible Study: Wednesday
Join us on Wednesdays for our study of Church History. We are studying the development of the Wisconsin Synod in the 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!
Women’s Bible Study: Thursday
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!
Ladies’ Fellowship Group: Thursday
The Ladies’ Fellowship Group will meet this Thursday, September 19, at 10:15 AM in the GraceTucson Fellowship Hall. 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 church library as well as from Amazon (paperback $11.59 or Kindle $6.73) and Concordia Publishing House ($12.99). Please bring a snack to share. Contact Lois Thornton at (520)323-8772 or vthornto2@gmail.com with any questions. Ladies from all Grace sites are welcome to attend.
Handbells and Choir: Thursday
Both of these groups began rehearsals this past Thursday, and we have room for more ringers and singers! Have you ever been interested in ringing a handbell? Do you enjoy singing? Please consider joining us on Thursday evenings for Handbells at 5:30 PM or Worship Choir at 6:45 PM. Both groups meet in the church sanctuary. Come give it a try—no experience is needed—and there is no commitment to continue if it’s not for you! If you have any questions, please contact our worship coordinator, Beth Kassulke (music@gracelutheransaz.org).
ANNOUNCEMENTS
CLC Birthday Carnival: Saturday
Celebrate our Child Learning Center’s 4th birthday!! A fun carnival will be held at our Sahuarita location on the CLC’s actual birthday, this Saturday, September 21, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Come and enjoy lunch, games, bounce houses, a dunk tank, and much more!
Homebound Volunteer Meeting: September 22
We have a great opportunity for you to serve your fellow Grace members! People are needed to call, write, email, or personally visit our Grace homebound members. Please come to hear about this ministry next Sunday, September 22, following the late service in the Fellowship Hall. These homebound members very much appreciate having a connection to fellow members!
Pictorial History of the Wisconsin Synod
In 2025 the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod (WELS) will celebrate 175 years of God’s grace! “Christ Through Us” is a limited edition hardcover book exploring the complete history of WELS from 1850 to 2025 in seven fascinating chapters and approximately 260 pages. Step back in time with captivating historical photographs. See how God has richly blessed WELS gospel ministry at home and abroad over 175 years! Read inspiring stories of WELS families throughout the past and up to the present. To guarantee availability and save 20% off the cover price, this book can be ordered through September 22 for $25. Please see the order form on the table in the Fellowship Hall or contact the Grace Central Office at (520)623-6633 or office@gracelutheransaz.org. Payment may be made by cash or check (payable to Grace Lutheran Church) and given to Pastor Kassulke or the Grace Central Office.
Evangelism Workshop: September 29
An Evangelism Workshop will be held here at Grace-Tucson on Sunday, September 29, following our 10:00 AM service. Exact details are being worked out, but we look forward to encouraging each other as we prepare to reach out to our friends and neighbors and welcome guests to church.
LWMS Fall Retreat: October 4-6
All ladies are invited to come enjoy fellowship and activities at the LWMS Fall Retreat taking place in the beautiful Prescott National Forest at Emmanuel Pines Camp in Prescott, AZ from October 4 through October 6. Online registration and payment is available at grandcanyonlwms.org. Registration forms are also available on the bulletin board in the Fellowship Hall. 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 from Peridot. All ladies are welcome!
Shepherd of the Hills Anniversary Celebration: October 13
Our sister WELS church in Tucson, Shepherd of the Hills, will be celebrating 50 years as a congregation with a special service on Sunday, October 13, at 4:00 PM. A meal will follow the service. You are invited to join them in celebrating 50 years of preaching and teaching and reaching the lost. 50 years of grace. 50 years of training children. We join together to celebrate God’s perfect shepherding, leadership, and direction. To help with planning, please RSVP by September 22 to https://soth.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/154/responses/new. Shepherd of the Hills is located at 8799 N. Northern Ave., 85704.
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 September 15 - September 22
Worship Services with communion 7:45a & 10:00a Children’s Bible Hour 8:45a
in Grace Class (office conference room) 9:00a Lifeliners (High School Group) Bible Study: Romans.....9:00a Adult Bible Study: Timely Topics 9:00a Fellowship following worship
VAIL
Adult Bible Study: Baptism 9:00a Worship Service with communion 10:00a Fellowship following worship Wednesday Adult Bible Study: 1 Corinthians 6:30p
Sunday, September 22
Adult Bible Study: Baptism .............................................9:00a Worship Service 10:00a
Fellowship following worship Site Ministry Team Meeting 12:00p
SAHUARITA Today
Women’s Bible Study: 12 Apostles 9:00a Ladies’ Fellowship Group 10:15a
Practice............................................................5:30p Worship Choir Practice 6:45p
Sunday, September 22
Worship Services 7:45a & 10:00a
Children’s Bible Hour 8:45a Adult Bible Study: Timely Topics 9:00a Grow in Grace Class (office conference room) 9:00a Lifeliners (High School Group) Bible Study: Romans 9:00a Fellowship following worship Homebound Volunteer Meeting 11:15a
Worship Service with communion 7:30a
Adult Bible Study: Ephesians Fellowship following worship Wednesday Adult Bible Study: Song of Songs 10:00a
Sunday, September 122
Worship Service 7:30a
Adult Bible Study: Ephesians 8:45a Fellowship following worship ...................................................
Stay Up to Date
Adult Bible Study: Large Catechism 9:00a Children’s Sunday School ..............................................9:00a Worship Service with communion 10:00a Tuesday Adult Open Gym Basketball 7:00p Wednesday Adult Bible Study: Hard Sayings of Jesus 10:00a Saturday CLC Birthday Carnival 10:00a Sunday, September 22
Adult Bible Study: Large Catechism 9:00a Children’s Sunday School 9:00a Worship Service 10:00a Fellowship following worship
Bible Study (Tucson)
September 22
Bible Study (Tucson)............................................. 9:00a
Services (Sahuarita & Tucson) 10:00a
The fastest and easiest way to keep Grace members and friends informed about what is happening at our four sites is through our weekly email update. This email is sent every Friday and at other times when special announcements are necessary. If you have not been receiving this email, but would like to, please email the Grace Central Office at office@gracelutheransaz.org and request to be added to our email list.
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. wels.net