News from St. John's
Lots of Baptisms Get 2012 Off to a Great Start!
St. John's has welcomed several children into the family of God over the past few weeks! We're looking forward to welcoming more people at Easter Vigil!
New Bishop's Committee at Work!
The new and returning members of the Bishop's Committee are shown at work during their first meeting In February 2012.
2012 Calendars Available Now! Only $10!
This slide show takes you through the highlights of 2011 as featured on our brand new 2012 calendar! Calendars include birthdays and anniversaries of all who have told the church secretary their dates. You can purchase yours in Lyster Hall.
Men's Quartet Sang on Christmas Eve!
The Men's Quartet sang two songs during the 4 pm service on Christmas Eve - the Offertory (shown here) and the Prelude (which can be seen on the Video page). A big thanks to Craig, Darel, John, and Steve!
Lots Has Happened... Your Web Master is Just Behind!
St. John's continues to be busy and growing, helping people transform their lives through a vibrant faith in Jesus Christ. Since your web master is behind in posting updates, please enjoy the slide show, which is in reverse chronological order - starting with the present and working its way back. It will give you a good sense of what's been happening!
Mary wins 1st Peeps Contest on April 30
Mary won first place in the adult and viewers' choice divisions in our first annual Peeps Contest! She is shown here with her entry, Peeps in the Garden.
Stephen and Morgan baptized on April 23
St. John's welcomed Stephen and Morgan as our brother and sister in Christ when they were baptized at Easter Vigil on April 23.
Lay ministry celebrated on November 14
St. John's has been blessed to have so much active lay ministry! On November 14, Mother Robin had to be away because the Bishop was visiting St. Peter's, so licensed lay worship leaders Shirley, Andrea, John, Linda, and Beth all joined together to conduct morning prayer. Music minister Darel played piano and organ. Andrea's reflection lifted up the many kinds of lay ministry that everyone at St. John's participates in.
All Saints Sunday celebrated with tree of remembrance
People brought in photos of their "saints" (friends and family who have passed on) and the photos were hung on a special Saints Tree in the front of the church. We celebrated All Saints Sunday on November 7 by remembering these special people and singing one of our favorite songs, "I Sing a Song of the Saints of God".
Over 140 pictures taken @ Halloween Open House
Bishop Gibbs Visited to Celebrate Our 175th!
On October 17, Bishop Wendell Gibbs came to Clinton to celebrate our 175th anniversary with us. Bishop Gibbs conducted the liturgy and stayed for Coffee Hour. We were honored by his presence! In his sermon, he urged us to think about what our mission in this place is, so that we can be in Clinton another 175 years and beyond.
Blessing of the Animals
On October 2, we celebrated the feast day of St. Francis of Assisi, who was known for his love of animals, by offering a Blessing of the Animals in Lyster Hall, due to the cold rain falling outside. This simple ceremony, led by Sr. Helen, celebrated the love we have for our pets and the love they give us. Six people, three dogs, and a cat attended, and another three cats were blessed in absentia.
Fall Festival 2010 a Success!
We had a float in the Fall Festival parade, showcasing our 175th anniversary celebration. Thanks to Forrest for building the church model and to many members for putting together the float. We also sold Fall Festival raffle tickets. Though the sales were slow before the Festival, during the weekend, we more than made our budget.
ECW Officers Installed
On September 7, the new ECW officers were installed. The meeting was held at Janet Fry's house. Pictured are Vice-President Cheryl, Secretary Rosemary, and Treasurer Andrea. Not shown is President Beth. The ECW meets the first Monday of each month October through December and March through June (and typically the first Tuesday in September). All women who attend church are members and are welcome and encouraged to attend!
15 Filled Backpacks Collected
In August, we collected 15 backpacks filled with school supplies for the kids at Catherine Cobb shelter in Adrian. These backpacks were for kids of all ages, with each age group having a customized list of supplies. We are grateful to the many generous people who contributed to this outreach program!
Sign "Resurrected"
On May 2, we celebrated the complete renovation of our sign. Vern completely remade the old sign, with help from Forrest and Mike. The new sign features a photostat, so it will automatically light up at night. Mother Robin blessed the sign, as the congregation gathered outside after the service. Shown here are Forrest (left) and Vern (right).
First Sunday Collection for Clinton Food Pantry
Each first Sunday, we collect non-perishable food and personal care items for the Clinton Food Pantry. Donations are needed now more than ever. Please give what you can. (Bags for donations were decorated by Sunday school children and their families!)
Heart and Harvest Bread - 105 Loaves Donated!
At our Feb. 14 collection of home-baked mini-loaves of bread, we collected 105 loaves. These were donated to local organizations that provide food to those in need.
Angel Tree gifts for Catherine Cobb families
This year, the congregation participated in an Angel Tree for families at the Catherine Cobb Domestic Violence Shelter in Adrian. "Angels," each representing a child at the shelter, where adopted by people in the congregation. A new, unwrapped toy appropriate for a child that age was then donated.
Lots of Baptisms Get 2012 Off to a Great Start!
St. John's has welcomed several children into the family of God over the past few weeks! We're looking forward to welcoming more people at Easter Vigil!
New Bishop's Committee at Work!
The new and returning members of the Bishop's Committee are shown at work during their first meeting In February 2012.
2012 Calendars Available Now! Only $10!
This slide show takes you through the highlights of 2011 as featured on our brand new 2012 calendar! Calendars include birthdays and anniversaries of all who have told the church secretary their dates. You can purchase yours in Lyster Hall.
Men's Quartet Sang on Christmas Eve!
The Men's Quartet sang two songs during the 4 pm service on Christmas Eve - the Offertory (shown here) and the Prelude (which can be seen on the Video page). A big thanks to Craig, Darel, John, and Steve!
Lots Has Happened... Your Web Master is Just Behind!
St. John's continues to be busy and growing, helping people transform their lives through a vibrant faith in Jesus Christ. Since your web master is behind in posting updates, please enjoy the slide show, which is in reverse chronological order - starting with the present and working its way back. It will give you a good sense of what's been happening!
Mary wins 1st Peeps Contest on April 30
Mary won first place in the adult and viewers' choice divisions in our first annual Peeps Contest! She is shown here with her entry, Peeps in the Garden.
Stephen and Morgan baptized on April 23
St. John's welcomed Stephen and Morgan as our brother and sister in Christ when they were baptized at Easter Vigil on April 23.
Lay ministry celebrated on November 14
St. John's has been blessed to have so much active lay ministry! On November 14, Mother Robin had to be away because the Bishop was visiting St. Peter's, so licensed lay worship leaders Shirley, Andrea, John, Linda, and Beth all joined together to conduct morning prayer. Music minister Darel played piano and organ. Andrea's reflection lifted up the many kinds of lay ministry that everyone at St. John's participates in.
All Saints Sunday celebrated with tree of remembrance
People brought in photos of their "saints" (friends and family who have passed on) and the photos were hung on a special Saints Tree in the front of the church. We celebrated All Saints Sunday on November 7 by remembering these special people and singing one of our favorite songs, "I Sing a Song of the Saints of God".
Over 140 pictures taken @ Halloween Open House
Hundreds
of visitors stopped by St. John's on a cold Halloween night to have
cider and donuts and rest for a little while. Over 140 of them had
their picture taken with the Wholly Ghost. Special thanks to Linda for making sure this wonderful tradition continues!
Bishop Gibbs Visited to Celebrate Our 175th!
On October 17, Bishop Wendell Gibbs came to Clinton to celebrate our 175th anniversary with us. Bishop Gibbs conducted the liturgy and stayed for Coffee Hour. We were honored by his presence! In his sermon, he urged us to think about what our mission in this place is, so that we can be in Clinton another 175 years and beyond.
Blessing of the Animals
On October 2, we celebrated the feast day of St. Francis of Assisi, who was known for his love of animals, by offering a Blessing of the Animals in Lyster Hall, due to the cold rain falling outside. This simple ceremony, led by Sr. Helen, celebrated the love we have for our pets and the love they give us. Six people, three dogs, and a cat attended, and another three cats were blessed in absentia.
Fall Festival 2010 a Success!
We had a float in the Fall Festival parade, showcasing our 175th anniversary celebration. Thanks to Forrest for building the church model and to many members for putting together the float. We also sold Fall Festival raffle tickets. Though the sales were slow before the Festival, during the weekend, we more than made our budget.
ECW Officers Installed
On September 7, the new ECW officers were installed. The meeting was held at Janet Fry's house. Pictured are Vice-President Cheryl, Secretary Rosemary, and Treasurer Andrea. Not shown is President Beth. The ECW meets the first Monday of each month October through December and March through June (and typically the first Tuesday in September). All women who attend church are members and are welcome and encouraged to attend!
15 Filled Backpacks Collected
In August, we collected 15 backpacks filled with school supplies for the kids at Catherine Cobb shelter in Adrian. These backpacks were for kids of all ages, with each age group having a customized list of supplies. We are grateful to the many generous people who contributed to this outreach program!
Sign "Resurrected"
On May 2, we celebrated the complete renovation of our sign. Vern completely remade the old sign, with help from Forrest and Mike. The new sign features a photostat, so it will automatically light up at night. Mother Robin blessed the sign, as the congregation gathered outside after the service. Shown here are Forrest (left) and Vern (right).
First Sunday Collection for Clinton Food Pantry
Each first Sunday, we collect non-perishable food and personal care items for the Clinton Food Pantry. Donations are needed now more than ever. Please give what you can. (Bags for donations were decorated by Sunday school children and their families!)
Heart and Harvest Bread - 105 Loaves Donated!
At our Feb. 14 collection of home-baked mini-loaves of bread, we collected 105 loaves. These were donated to local organizations that provide food to those in need.
Angel Tree gifts for Catherine Cobb families
This year, the congregation participated in an Angel Tree for families at the Catherine Cobb Domestic Violence Shelter in Adrian. "Angels," each representing a child at the shelter, where adopted by people in the congregation. A new, unwrapped toy appropriate for a child that age was then donated.
ECW donates $50 to Heifer International as part of Christmas giving
The women of St. John's (the ECW) donated $50 to Heifer International to help those in need this Christmas. Their $50 paid for families to receive a flock of chickens, honeybees, and training on how to take care of them. The recipients of the gifts will be required to pass on the gift to their neighbors as soon as they are able. Heifer International has helped thousands of families around the world get out of poverty and reach their full potential. The ECW sees this gift as part of their continued caring for people not just in our local community, but in our global community as well.
The women of St. John's (the ECW) donated $50 to Heifer International to help those in need this Christmas. Their $50 paid for families to receive a flock of chickens, honeybees, and training on how to take care of them. The recipients of the gifts will be required to pass on the gift to their neighbors as soon as they are able. Heifer International has helped thousands of families around the world get out of poverty and reach their full potential. The ECW sees this gift as part of their continued caring for people not just in our local community, but in our global community as well.
Over 135 pictures taken @ Halloween Open House
Hundreds of visitors stopped by St. John's on a cold Halloween night to have cider and donuts and rest for a little while. About 135 of them had their picture taken with the Wholly Ghost. See a short video here or see our photo gallery here.
St. John's @ Fall Festival a success!
We sold over 1,400 Fall Festival raffle tickets this year, thanks to our dedicated volunteers!
We also gave over 1,000 free temporary airbrush tattoos to kids at the festival! Thanks to over a dozen volunteers - from St. John's and also St. Peter's in Tecumseh and Christ Church Adrian - we were open 10 am - 6 pm Friday and Saturday, and 10 am - 1:30 pm on Sunday. Kids and parents were so grateful for something FREE and FUN! See the video here!
Blessing of the Animals
On October 3, we celebrated the feast day of St. Francis of Assisi, who was known for his love of animals, by offering a Blessing of the Animals in Lyster Hall, due to the cold rain falling outside. This simple ceremony, led by Sr. Helen, celebrated the love we have for our pets and the love they give us. Five people, three dogs, and a cat attended, and Linda distributed at-home blessings to many more the service!
News from the Deanery
Please click here to download th Fall 2010 Lyster Deanery newsletter.
Please click here to download the Winter 2010 Lyster Deanery newsletter.
Please click here to download the Fall 2009 Lyster Deanery newsletter.
News from the Diocese
Diocesan Weekly Connection
You can click here to access the Weekly Connection online. At the same place, you can sign up to receive the Weekly Connection in your email.