Ministries for June 1–30, 2020 and Upcoming Events
Updated: Jul 1, 2020
. . . in June
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In case of a pastoral emergency, please contact Pastor Lisa Borrell at 610-762-2139.
STARTING SUNDAY, JUNE 14, 2020 AT 9:00 A.M. ~ OUTDOOR SUNDAY WORSHIP SERVICES WILL BE HELD AT NEW JERUSALEM EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH (RAIN OR SHINE)
We would like to give a big shout out to everyone and Pastor Lisa Borrell for making our first outdoor FR Transmitter Worship Service a success. About 45 attended. Everyone followed the guidelines and things ran smoothly.
Next week we will be making some adjustments to the microphones to even make things better. We really appreciate everyone for their patience and understanding.
Hope to see you again! Pastor Lisa will be back again to lead our worship service on Sunday, June 21 at 9:00 a.m. Peace be with you, Church Council
COUNCIL CONNECTION
Can you believe it has been 12 weeks since we have worshiped together under one roof? Some of you might be saying “how times flies," others might say “it seems like only yesterday we were together," or “when will we be able to return." Council plans on taking baby steps to get us together again.
With the governor’s approval to move us into the “yellow” phase beginning June 5, 2020, the church will be following the guidelines set by our governor and SYNOD, that will require some adjustments to our service and practices. We will be expecting our members to follow these guidelines as well, or we will have to close up again.
BUILDING/ACTIVITIES
Appropriate wearing of masks and gloves while in the building at ALL times.
No entry into the building prior to 10:00 a.m.
No entry into the office, except secretary and treasurer.
Offering envelopes should continue to be mailed or use the online Vanco portal, please refrain from dropping off at church.
Encourage continuation of zoom meetings (however, meetings of less than 25 attendees with appropriate 6’ distancing and masks is allowed).
Pick up of supplies or cleaning are allowed with two people at a time in one area.
Food bank will continue with curbside pickup. WORKERS MUST WEAR MASKS AT ALL TIMES.
NO EATING OR DRINKING INSIDE BUILDING. That requires one to remove their masks…a no-no.
OUTSIDE WORSHIP INFORMATION
Outside worship services will begin on Sunday, June 14, 2020 at 9:00 a.m. That’s right, we are going to use our parking lot as our sanctuary. Council is trying to make this transition as seamless, safe and successful as possible! If you do not feel comfortable attending, feel free to continue to watch Pastor Lisa’s sermons on-line.
For those that are ready this will fill your needs; and those that might still be uncomfortable being around others, this might be a way of getting your feet wet before jumping into the pool.
We have made some slight changes, but it will not affect the impact of worship. These changes are to help keep everyone safe from COVID-19. These changes are: remain in car, no choir, less songs, no sharing of peace, offering at end of service, and communion will be done by prepackaged containers. There will be NO access to restrooms before, during, or after service.
You are probably wondering how this is going to work:
An individual will greet you in the driveway and will hand you a bulletin and communion containers. The bulletins will be printed with everything you need. Please let the individual know how many communion containers will be needed for your passengers. The communion containers are ordered prepackaged and, unfortunately, do not offer gluten free wafers or wine. There is only one option for communion (wafer and grape juice). Feel free to bring your own “bread” to be used during communion. At the appropriate time you will tear off the first layer which will have your wafer. Then the second layer will have grape juice.
After receiving these items, follow the direction of the parking attendants and park your vehicle. We will be adhering to the 6’ distance and wearing of masks/gloves. You will remain in your vehicle and tune in to 106.5 FM on your vehicle radio. Please be patient with our volunteers. A plan for entering and exiting the parking lot has been established to maintain safety for all, as this is new to everyone. It will be just like attending a drive-in movie, but different.
After worship is done, please be patient exiting the parking lot. Again there will be parking attendants to guide us in the process. You will notice upon your exit of the parking lot, an individual will be collecting your offering.
GUIDELINES/RULES FOR OUTSIDE SERVICE
Everyone MUST remain in their vehicles at all times.
No entry into church building. This means no use of restrooms.
Take all trash/recycling home with you after worship service.
Masks and gloves are encouraged even in your vehicle.
Be patient—what else do you have to do?
No children’s coloring packs will be available. Bring your own form of entertainment for your children. Service activity booklets will be available online for YOU to print and bring along!
Services will be held rain or shine.
Thank you to those that have been sending offerings in the mail or have been using the online Vanco portal. We are making sure all systems will be operating, our building is clean, and we are ready for worship when we get the green light! We are busy ordering supplies that will be necessary for us to commune together, as well as sanitizing supplies to keep us all safe. Our church congregation sticks together when the going gets tough. Please continue to support the ongoing work of New Jerusalem by sending in your offerings.
We hope you will consider attending our outside worship service. If you have any questions, feel free to contact Cindy Hart 484-548-3937 or Sharon Bender 610-597-8764.
I am also happy to report that a pastor candidate’s name has been given to our call committee. We will share more details as this process moves forward.
Cindy Hart—New Jerusalem Council President
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ONLINE SERVICES ARE OFFERED ON SUNDAY MORNING, JUNE 7, 2020
New Jerusalem members are welcome to worship online with Pastor Lisa Borrell at Friedens Lutheran Church on Sunday mornings at 9:00 a.m. The link is https://friedenscentervalley.com/online-church-services.
AND
At 10:00 a.m. on Sunday mornings, you can log in to see a live stream Sunday worship service from St. John's Lutheran Church in Mayfair, PA, an area outside of Philadelphia. Pastor Daniel Eisenberg, whom some of you may remember from his youth group days at NJ, is the pastor there. He has graciously invited us to view his service on Facebook or through the church's website. The addresses are:
facebook.com/stjohns-mayfair or www.stjohnsmayfair.org.
If you use the church website, you will need to click on the light blue bar in the middle of the page.
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We thank Pastor Lisa and Pastor Dan for inviting us to join them for their worship services.
Have a lovely day and prayers for a peaceful week ahead!
Stay safe and be well. Church Council
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FREE ONLINE FAMILY SUNDAY SCHOOL ~ Are you looking for ways to support faith formation at home? Sparkhouse is excited to announce Family Sunday School, a free 8-week lesson series for families!
Each week Sunday School curriculum developer (and former summer camp Arts and Crafts director) Dr. Dawn Rundman and her family will host Family Sunday School. Each episode presents a lesson based on Lectionary readings that families can watch together. The Bible story, illustrations, and other content are based on Spark: Activate Faith Lectionary Sunday School lessons. You are welcome to distribute, post, and reproduce the lesson materials for your church families in whatever way works for you. We’ll post a new lesson every Tuesday for the following Sunday. Lessons will be posted through Trinity Sunday, June 7, 2020. The first lesson, Doubting Thomas, is available now at https://www.wearesparkhouse.org/promos/family-sunday-school/?utm_campaign=SHC%20Children&utm_
You can also visit New Jerusalem Evangelical Lutheran Church on Facebook at
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. Philippians 4:6
'Make Me A Channel of Your Peace' Sung by Susan Boyle
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'Let There Be Peace On Earth' Sung by The Young People's Chorus of New York City
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JUNE 14, 2020—FLAG DAY
Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord; and the people
whom he hath chosen for his own inheritance. Psalm 33:12
'America The Beautiful'
You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love. Galatians 5:13
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JUNE 21, 2020—HAPPY FATHER'S DAY
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'One Pair of Hands' Sung by Carroll Roberson
GOVERNOR TOM WOLF EXTENDS THE CORONAVIRUS STAY-AT-HOME ORDER THROUGH JUNE 4, 2020.
As per the US Federal Government, social-distancing guidelines and the use of masks when you leave your home will remain in place.
Worship and all activities at New Jerusalem Church have been CANCELLED (AA, Lions Club, Apple's Preschool, card group, quilters, prime timers, etc.). We are asking everyone to refrain from entering the building unless absolutely necessary (secretary, church maintenance, cleaning staff, etc.) as the building has been sanitized. Church council is meeting virtually and there is a skeleton crew of food bank workers that are providing life sustaining supplies to families by curbside pick up. Of course, cancelling these services will affect us financially - so we encourage you to mail in your offering or use www.newjerlc.org/online-giving. The church continues to have expenses even when we are not worshiping under one roof.
Stay well, Cindy Hart–Church Council President
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COVID-19 UPDATE
We are all anxious to get back to our normal day to day activities. Due to the recent closings and cancellations, schedules of meetings and gatherings are tentative and are reliant on the status of social distancing requirements. Please continue to pray for those on the front line, putting themselves at risk every day, as well as those who have been affected by health issues. Continue to be safe, taking precautions seriously to prevent contracting and spreading the virus.
A message from Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton on COVID-19:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=S6Nd_T4R_EY
Monday, June 1, 2020
CLOSED Church Office & Preschool
CANCELLED 7:00 p.m.—Boy Scouts
CANCELLED 6:30 p.m.—Choir (see Mark Your Calendar below)
Tuesday, June 2, 2020
CLOSED Church Office & Preschool
CANCELLED 9:00 a.m.—Quilters
Wednesday, June 3, 2020
CLOSED Church Office & Preschool
CANCELLED 7:00 p.m.—AA
Thursday, June 4, 2020
CLOSED Church Office & Preschool
CANCELLED 1:00 p.m.—Cards
Friday, June 5, 2020
CLOSED Church Office & Preschool
9:00 a.m.—Food Bank Delivery (see Mark Your Calendar below)
Saturday, June 6, 2020
8:30 a.m.—Outdoor Work Party (see Mark Your Calendar below)
Sunday, June 7, 2020
CANCELLED 9:00 a.m.—Worship Service ~ Holy Trinity/1st Sunday After Pentecost
PLEASE NOTE: As you all know, our Sunday services have been put on hold for the time being, as our country is dealing with COVID-19. Since we have been asked and directed to practice physical distancing, New Jerusalem has been given an opportunity for an alternate worship experience online: 9:00 a.m. Pastor Lisa Borrell–Friedens Lutheran Church (www.friedenscentervalley.com) in Center Valley, PA
10:00 a.m. Pastor Daniel Eisenberg–St. John's Lutheran Church (www.stjohnsmayfair.org) in Mayfair, PA
CANCELLED 10:00 a.m.—Fellowship
CANCELLED 7:00 p.m.—AA
Monday, June 8, 2020
CLOSED Church Office
CANCELLED 6:30 p.m.—Choir (see Mark Your Calendar below)
CANCELLED 7:00 p.m.—Boy Scouts
Tuesday, June 9 , 2020
CLOSED Church Office
CANCELLED 9:00 a.m.—Quilters
CANCELLED 7:00 p.m.—Church Council Meeting
Wednesday, June 10, 2020
CLOSED Church Office
CANCELLED 7:00 p.m.—AA
Thursday, June 11, 2020
CLOSED Church Office
CANCELLED 1:00 p.m.—Cards
Friday, June 12, 2020
CLOSED Church Office
9:00 a.m.—Food Bank Delivery (see Mark Your Calendar below)
Saturday, June 13, 2020
CLOSED Church
DRIVE THROUGH PICK-UP 8:30–10:45 a.m.—Food Bank Distribution (see Mark Your Calendar below)
Sunday, June 14, 2020
FLAG DAY
9:00 a.m.—Outside Worship ~ 2nd Sunday After Pentecost
PLEASE NOTE: If you are unable to attend our Outside Worship Service at New Jerusalem, please visit Pastor Borrell or Pastor Eisenberg services for an alternate worship experience online: 9:00 a.m. Pastor Lisa Borrell–Friedens Lutheran Church (www.friedenscentervalley.com) in Center Valley, PA
10:00 a.m. Pastor Daniel Eisenberg–St. John's Lutheran Church (www.stjohnsmayfair.org) in Mayfair, PA
CANCELLED 10:00 a.m.—Fellowship
CANCELLED 7:00 p.m.—AA
Monday, June 15, 2020
CLOSED Church Office
CANCELLED 6:30 p.m.—Choir (see Mark Your Calendar below)
CANCELLED 7:00 p.m.—Boy Scouts
Tuesday, June 16, 2020
CLOSED Church Office
CANCELLED 9:00 a.m.—Quilters
CANCELLED 12:00 p.m.—Prime Timers
Wednesday, June 17, 2020
CLOSED Church Office
CANCELLED 7:00 p.m.—AA
Thursday, June 18, 2020
CLOSED Church Office
CANCELLED 1:00 p.m.—Cards
Friday, June 19, 2020
CLOSED Church Office
Saturday, June 20, 2020
8:30–10:45 a.m.—DRIVE THROUGH PICK-UP Food Bank Distribution (see Mark Your Calendar below)
Sunday, June 21, 2020
9:00 a.m.—Outside Worship ~ 3rd Sunday After Pentecost
PLEASE NOTE: If you are unable to attend our Outside Worship Service at New Jerusalem, please visit Pastor Borrell or Pastor Eisenberg services for an alternate worship experience online: 9:00 a.m. Pastor Lisa Borrell–Friedens Lutheran Church (www.friedenscentervalley.com) in Center Valley, PA
10:00 a.m. Pastor Daniel Eisenberg–St. John's Lutheran Church (www.stjohnsmayfair.org) in Mayfair, PA
CANCELLED 10:00 a.m.—Fellowship
CANCELLED 7:00 p.m.—AA
Monday, June 22, 2020
CLOSED Church Office
CANCELLED 6:30 p.m.—Choir (see Mark Your Calendar below)
CANCELLED 7:00 p.m.—Boy Scouts
Tuesday, June 23, 2020
CLOSED Church Office
9:00 a.m.—July Angelus Deadline
CANCELLED 9:00 a.m.—Quilters
Wednesday, June 24, 2020
CLOSED Church Office
5:00–6:00 p.m.—Hoagie Pick-up in the Church Parking Lot
CANCELLED 7:00 p.m.—AA
Thursday, June 25, 2020
CLOSED Church Office
CANCELLED 1:00 p.m.—Cards
Friday, June 26, 2020
CLOSED Church Office
Saturday, June 27, 2020
CLOSED Church
8:30–10:45 a.m.—DRIVE THROUGH PICK-UP Food Bank Distribution (see Mark Your Calendar below)
Sunday, June 28, 2020
9:00 a.m.—Outside Worship ~ 4th Sunday After Pentecost
PLEASE NOTE: If you are unable to attend our Outside Worship Service at New Jerusalem, please visit Pastor Borrell or Pastor Eisenberg services for an alternate worship experience online: 9:00 a.m. Pastor Lisa Borrell–Friedens Lutheran Church (www.friedenscentervalley.com) in Center Valley, PA
10:00 a.m. Pastor Daniel Eisenberg–St. John's Lutheran Church (www.stjohnsmayfair.org) in Mayfair, PA
CANCELLED 10:00 a.m.—Fellowship
CANCELLED 7:00 p.m.—AA
Monday, June 29, 2020
CLOSED Church Office
CANCELLED 6:30 p.m.—Choir (see Mark Your Calendar below)
CANCELLED 7:00 p.m.—Boy Scouts
Tuesday, June 30, 2020
CLOSED Church Office
CANCELLED 9:00 a.m.—Quilters
Thank you for the offerings you have made and continue to make to New Jerusalem Church. Your offerings of time, God-given talents, and monetary offerings help support all that we do.
Together, we are the Body of Christ.
During this time that the church is closed because of the COVID-19 pandemic,
please make your Offering Checks out to: New Jerusalem Church or NJELC
and mail it to:
New Jerusalem Evangelical Lutheran Church
3323 Apples Church Road, Bethlehem, PA 18015
OR
We have partnered with Vanco Payment Solutions to allow church members to contribute their offerings electronically from their personal checking or saving accounts directly to the church at no cost to them. Click this link Vanco Website to create your free online profile and set up your giving preferences. Giving will now be easier and hassle free.
Below is a brief description about 'Giving Electronically':
Electronic gifts are fast and secure, and they reduce administrative costs, allowing more of every dollar to fund the important work we are called to do.
+ Give anytime, anywhere to your favorite funds
+ Schedule and manage recurring donations even when you are on vacation
+ Make one-time donations to special appeals
+ Pay for events, programs, and other activities
+ Don’t have to cash or a checkbook
New Jerusalem Community Food Bank
Current Needs: Peanut butter and jelly
Thank you for your contributions!
Food Bank Delivery:
Friday, June 12, 2020 at 9:00 a.m.
PLEASE NOTE CHANGES
Distribution Days: DRIVE THROUGH FOOD BANK PICK-UPS from 8:45–10:45 a.m.on Saturday, June 20 and Saturday, June 27, 2020.
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During the month of May, approximately 90 families were served at the New Jerusalem's Food Bank. We thank everyone for the food and monetary donations during this challenging time. We are so inspired by the generosity of the community! The food bank has received extraordinary donations of food and monetary donations. Through the Giant’s Bag Hunger Campaign, the generous customer donations will be given to NJELC Food Bank.
Volunteer Information
If you or your group or organization (ages 12 or older) are interested in volunteering at the food bank, please see or contact Tammy Welch at donniesmom180@yahoo.com.
For more information about our Food Bank, please click here.
A special thank you to all the hard-working volunteers who help keep the NJ Food Bank operating and to our most generous community!
Thank you for making this community stronger!
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Welcome to Apple's Preschool at New Jerusalem Evangelical Lutheran Church!
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE APPLE'S PRESCHOOL GRADUATES
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PA GOVERNOR TOM WOLF EXTENDED THE
STAY-AT-HOME ORDER UNTIL JUNE 4, 2020.
Therefore, all activities and services at New Jerusalem Church
will be CANCELLED until further notice.
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Following the ruling by Governor Tom Wolf for all Pennsylvania School Districts,
Apple's Preschool will be closed for the remainder of the 2019–2020 school year.
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Our program consists of four classes designed to fit the needs of every student and their family. Through many learning activities, crafts, songs, books, and much more, children are engaged to learn their letters, numbers, colors, shapes, patterns, opposites, rhyming, sequencing, size, etc., along with writing skills. With a soft Christian environment children are guided through their days to share and care, while using their imaginations and energy to fill our spacious classroom with joy.
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Dear Students of Apple's Preschool,
I am so sad that we did not have these past few months with you for classroom learning. Even harder is knowing that a lot of you are moving on to kindergarten in the fall and we wanted to prepare you so much more for that next step in your educational journey.
Thank you to all who participated with our on-line learning activities through ClassDojo.com and on our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ApplesChurchPreschool. I was glad to be able to provide something to make the days spent at home a bit more interesting.
As soon as we know when the 2020-2021 school year will begin, we will notify everyone with the dates. At this time we still have openings in our classes for next year. Registration can be done by emailing Miss Shani at shani@rcn.com. The registration fee is $25 and our tuition rates are $130/month for the Three Year Old Class and $175/month for the Pre-K Classes.
Wishing everyone a safe and healthy summer season,
Miss Shani
Check out the fun things we did at Preschool in May and June!
Our teachers are looking forward to a year filled
many new learning experiences in 2020–2021.
For more, click here to see our church website's Preschool tab introducing you to
our teachers, school days and times, our philosophy, and upcoming events.
You can also find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ApplesChurchPreschool.
Miss Shani, Miss Katrina, and Miss Denise
We thank everyone for the food and monetary donations during this challenging time. We are so inspired by the generosity of the community! The food bank has received extraordinary donations of food and monetary donations. Through the Giant’s Bag Hunger Campaign, the generous customer donations will be given to NJELC Food Bank.
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It is with honor to inform all of you that we have made a monetary donation to a local veteran in need. This donation was taken from the account that was created for Veterans from the spaghetti dinner. This individual is a Desert Storm Veteran who is 100% disabled. In the last 7 years his right knee has been replaced twice, a spinal stimulator installed which he got MRSA from and it had to be removed. He has had back surgery with disks replaced and rods and bone installed. This donation will be used to upgrade his bathroom to help make his life easier. Thank you for supporting our Veterans.
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We would like to give a big shout out and thank Pastor Lisa Borrell for leading us in worship at our 1st FR Transmitter Outdoor Worship Service on Sunday, June 14, 2020. Thank you to Ed Walakovits for playing the organ and leading our songs. Thanks to everyone who made this outside worship service possible. About 45 attended. Everyone followed the guidelines and things ran smoothly. It was a success!
Next week we will be making some adjustments to the microphones to even make things better. We really appreciate everyone's patience and understanding. Hope to see you again. Pastor Lisa will be back again on Sunday, June 21 at 9:00 a.m.
Peace be with you, Church Council
FOR 2020–2021 UPCOMING EVENTS
Heavenly Father, I may not understand how everything will work out, but I trust You.
I don’t see a way, but I know You will make a way. I have faith that at this very moment, You are touching hearts, opening door, lining up the right breaks, and right opportunities. Things may look dark and bleak now, but I have my faith In Jesus Christ. Amen
When we departed from each other on March 8, 2020, whoever expected this future as we begin the month of June in isolation and stay at home orders. It has not been easy to say the least. Concerns about how it may affect the health, safety, and well-being of both individuals (for example, causing insecurity, confusion, emotional isolation, and stigma) and communities (owing to economic loss, work and school closures).
But there is Good News! STARTING SUNDAY, JUNE 14, 2020 AT 9:00 A.M. ~ OUTDOOR SUNDAY WORSHIP SERVICES WILL BE HELD AT NEW JERUSALEM EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH (RAIN OR SHINE).
An Outdoor Work Party is scheduled for Saturday, June 6, 2020. We’ll start at 8:30 a.m. and will continue until we feel ready for our first outdoor worship. Please come when you can and leave when you must. We will be trimming trees, raking leaves, cleaning flower gardens and overall making our church grounds neat and pretty. Please bring tools, work gloves and anything you would expect to need for this type of work. NOTE: Don’t forget to bring your mask and we will be practicing social distancing while doing this work. Let’s get together. We can do this!! Please contact Jere Reiss for more information.
HOAGIE SALE FUNDRAISER (COVID 19)
Wednesday, June 24, 2020 Pick up time 5:00–6:00 p.m.
$5.00 each
No contact pick-up—Drive up to office door entrance and someone will bring your hoagie(s) to your car.
Proceeds will be used to upgrade sound system for outdoor worship service.
Mail order form and check in to the church office by June 17, 2020.
Name: _________________________________________________________________
Phone Number ______________________ Cell Phone _________________
Italian: ________ Italian NO onions: ______ Total ____________
Turkey: ________ Turkey NO onions: ______ Total ____________
Ham: _________ Ham NO onions: ________ Total ____________
Payment Check # __________ Total Payment $ ____________
Any questions contact Terry Ravier at tsravier3@gmail.com or 610-838-9230.
Emily Brintzenhoff
Southern Lehigh High School
She will be attending Bloomsburg University majoring in Psychology.
Faith Cameron
Southern Lehigh High School
She will be attending Mansfield University majoring in Biology with the plan of becoming a Physical Therapist.
Liam Gaughan
Southern Lehigh High School
He will be attending Rutgers University to study Sports Management.
Alyssa Milan
She will be attending Slippery Rock University in August for Psychology.
After that it will be grad school and as of now looking to be a school psychologist.
Eric Reily
He is planning on going into the Military and become a full time Fire Fighter and EMT.
A Message from Kelsey Fulmer ~ I was diagnosed in 2016 with epilepsy and have since been participating in epilepsy walks to try and raise awareness and try and find a cure. I feel very passionate about raising money for this very worthy cause and I would appreciate your support in helping me if you are able to donate at this time. A little goes a long way.
Thank you so much! Here is the link for my epilepsy walk https://p2p.onecause.com/epilepsywalklv/team/purple-princess-2.
PASS THE TIME
Bored and Up for a Challenge?????
I challenge each and every household to create an animal from recycled material.
Here are the rules:
1. At least 90% of your animal must be recycled from something around your house. It can be something that hasn't been used before.
2. The animal must consist of one beverage container (milk jug, juice box, soda bottle/can, etc). It does not need to be the entire container.
3. The animal cannot be larger than 2-1/2 feet.
4. Send a photo of your animal to Cindy Hart (cmh505@lehigh.edu) by June 17 to be included in the next Angelus. Also, we would ask that your animal come to the celebration party when we return to church.
CANCELLED Prime Timers will meet on Tuesday, TBD, 2020 at noon. We will be enjoying TBA! All are welcome.
For questions, please contact Loretta at 610-838-7428. Hope to see you there! Loretta Duch
CANCELLED
Rocky Railway Vacation Bible School (VBS)
will NOT be held July 27–31, 2020.
SEE YOU IN THE FALL ~ Bible study will take place on TBD. We will be studying TBA. All are welcome to join us and be encouraged by God’s word. Please contact Kathy Shermetta for more details.
SEE YOU IN THE FALL ~ Come one, come all! Our Book Club has been meeting on the last Tuesday of each month and we’d love for you to join us! Our title is TBA and we will meet on TBD. We will meet in the Upper Room to chat about the book.
We always seem to find time to laugh and chat about related topics and good books, so if you haven’t read it, or haven’t finished reading by then, still come and enjoy some fellowship and laughter.
We look forward to seeing you! Please contact Sharon Bender or any member of the club if you are interested or need more information. Our Book Club is open to all, members of NJELC and non-members alike! The more the merrier! Blessings!
TBD ~ Tricky Tray Fundraiser at New Jerusalem Church will take place on Saturday, TBD, 2020. Please sign up to create a Tricky Tray, make a monetary donation, or donate items and we will create one for you! We still need baked goods (you are the BEST bakers!). If you have any kind of baskets you are not using, we would love to have them to fill.
Just an update and a call for help....we really need donations for our Tricky Tray event. We could use donations of gift card for perhaps Home Depot, Lowe’s, restaurants, grocery stores, etc. any of these would be awesome! If you you would prefer to make a monetary donation, that would be great too. The tricky tray committee will be at coffee hour following worship each Sunday so you can make any donations at that time. We would love to see you at the Tricky Tray Event on Saturday, TBD, but if you can't make it, please consider donating. Thank you
Bring your Tricky Trays with your name on your donation any Sunday. It’s going to be a fun event! Please see Barb Brader, Cindy Hart, Faye Kichline, or Wanda Luybli for tickets, flyers, and more information.
Synod Events
CANCELLED September 19, 2020 ~ Youth Fest 2020. The Youth Fest planning team has decided to cancel our one-day youth event for Saturday, September 19, 2020 at Union Lutheran in Schnecksville. They eagerly look forward to 2021 and the activities and events we hope to share in at a safer time. For more information, please visit http://nepasynod.org/event/youth-fest-2020/.
October 17, 2020 ~ We Love… Trinity, Reading, 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. We Love… will be a day of workshops for congregational leaders to learn how to help their congregations be more welcoming to LGBTQIA+ individuals and families. We Love… is open to pastors, deacons, council members, congregation members, church unaffiliated, Sunday School teachers and learners, gay, straight, bi, trans, +, young, old, you and everyone. Come learn why, how and who We Love… For more information, please visit http://nepasynod.org/event/we-love/.
October 22-24, 2020 ~ Assembly 2020. Information on the postponed Assembly will be published as available.
4th Annual Youth Gift Card Bingo and Raffle will take place on Saturday, November 7, 2020. Watch for more details in the coming months.
Thank you for all your support ~ New Jerusalem Youth
Youth Gathering ~ 2021 ELCA Youth Gathering will be in Minneapolis, Minnesota!
Calling all high school youth to join us in Minneapolis!
Theme: “Boundless: God Beyond Measure”
Ephesians 3:14-21
14 For this reason I kneel before the Father, 15 from whom every family[a] in heaven and on earth derives its name. 16 I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, 17 so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, 18 may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, 19 and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. 20 Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, 21 to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.
More information forthcoming.
If you are not receiving the Angelus (Church Newsletter) either electronically or via the mail, please contact the church office at 610-838-0731 and provide your name, email, and address to correct to error.
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2020 Altar Flower Sign-up Sheet is located in the Narthex.
Altar flowers are a great way to honor or remember someone dear. The cost is $35.00 or 2 people/families may share a week for $17.50/each.
The Altar Guild is in need of 46 oz. cans to put the Sunday flowers in to take them to our shut-ins.
What is Mutual Ministry at New Jerusalem? Did you know that there is a Mutual Ministry Committee here at New Jerusalem?
Mutual Ministry is loosely defined as the interaction between the pastor, professional staff, Church Council, and the congregation to foster communication and support between these three groups. Typical tasks of the Mutual Ministry Committee include providing a listening ear to each group and a means to interact in a confidential way to resolve issues that may arise between, and within, each group. The committee also assists Church Council in conducting an annual performance review of the Church’s professional staff, as well as providing input into creating and revising employee job descriptions.
Currently, this committee is comprised of three members (Tina Miller, Tina Young, and Tim Fulmer) who are appointed to serve a three-year term as approved by the Pastor and Church Council President. The committee is currently seeking additional members, so any interested members of the congregation are invited to contact Pastor Lauren; Church Council President, Marianne Zellner; or any current Mutual Ministry Committee member for more information.
Any member of the congregation that desires to seek assistance from the Mutual Ministry Committee may do so by contacting a member of the committee to arrange a meeting with the committee to discuss issues dealing with interactions with pastor/professional staff, Church Council, and/or other members of the congregation. All contact with the Mutual Ministry Committee is kept confidential between the parties involved in the issue; and the hopeful outcome of this process is to resolve the issue to the satisfaction of all parties.
Have you ever taken a photo* at a New Jerusalem Evangelical Lutheran Church (NJELC) event?
We would LOVE to share your photos on the NJELC website and/or Facebook!
Send them to:
+ Facebook: Kathy Fenstermacher at kathyfenstermacher@gmail.com or
Caroline Skuba at carifrogs@gmail.com
+ NJ website: Linda Weaver at weavers_1969@hotmail.com
*PLEASE NOTE: If you share photos, you are giving NJELC permission to post the photo publicly of all persons in the photograph(s).
We welcome our new Music Director, Edward L. Walakovits. He will begin on Saturday, February 1, 2020. Ed is a skilled Organist and Choir Director with more than 30 years of experience. He is experienced in playing the pipe organ and piano. Ed has a working knowledge of liturgy and choral styles. He is an effective leader with an eye for developing and motivating choir members. Ed graduated from Moravian College with a Bachelor of Arts in Finance with a minor in Music. Please be sure to welcome Ed to New Jerusalem Church!
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Choir rehearsals will be held on
Monday evening at 6:30 p.m.
Rehearsals are currently CANCELLED.
Feel free to join the choir—all voices and
skill levels are welcome!
See you in the choir room!
If you have any questions, please see Ed.
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Pop-Up Choir ~ Once or twice a month, the choir invites members and guests to join them to sing the Anthem and praises to our God! The response has been very positive and uplifting for all!
Acolytes, Assistant Ministers, Chalisters, Lectors, Pastor Assistants (Council only for Pastor Assistant), please see the sign-up sheets in the Narthex for volunteer opportunities. The church office makes every effort to accommodate requests. Thank you.
Please provide your email address to both the church office at newjerelc@gmail.com and to Caroline Skuba at carifrogs@gmail.com so the electronic volunteer sign-up sheet link can be sent to you.
Prayer Shawls ~ There is a basket of beautiful handmade prayer shawls in the Narthex. If you know of someone who is having hard times (illness, sadness, troubles, or just because), please take one for them. These shawls are meant to show a tangible message of God's love and the care and concern of friends from New Jerusalem.
Would you like to learn to Quilt?
If you would like to learn or already know how, please join our quilters on Tuesday mornings at 9:00 a.m. (CANCELLED DUE TO THE CORONAVIRUS)
Do you like to pray? Do you like to pray for others?
Please join our Prayer Team if this sounds like you. If you prefer notices by email contact Kathy Fenstermacher at kathyfenstermacher@gmail.com. If you would to receive a phone call please write your name and phone number on paper and submit to the church office. If you want to include your name and number and place in the offering plate we will be sure to get it to Bernice Sandy.
Thank you for being part of this ministry!
Volunteers Needed for our Fellowship Committee ~ The Fellowship Committee provides tasty treats for your enjoyment after worship every Sunday and is in need of additional volunteers to provide items. If you have any interest in providing an occasional snack for coffee hour, please see or get in touch with Tina Young. If you would like to team up with another family or a couple of people, we can work with you on doing that. If you would like to offer your assistance on setup and or clean up, that is welcome also.
I would first like to thank everyone who has ever led or helped with a coffee hour. Without your help, this time of fellowship would not be possible. As we move forward, I have updated and attached the current coffee hour duty list to reduce confusion and apprehension. We need more people to sign up for weekly coffee hour as leaders (who would organize a small group) and bakers (who would support current leaders). Please consider this important ministry that builds community in our church. Contact Tina Young at btyoung9396@gmail.com or call 610-533-4977.
NJELC Ride Share ~ Consider adding your name to the NJELC Ride Share list, which will be distributed to our members who require home visitation, to be used in the event that they need a ride to a doctor's appointment, worship, or community event.
Sign up on the sign-up sheet in the Narthex or by contacting the church office at 610-838-0731.
Weston Nursing Home Visits in Hellertown ~ Participants may visit residents, play games, share stories, read to residents, etc. Dates and times are listed on a form in the Narthex, please sign up. Contact Robin Rooth-Fogel for more information or the church office at 610-838-0731.
New Jerusalem Church will hold periodic fundraising events for our veterans. Participants may visit residents, play games, share stories, read to them, or we can offer support. The congregation will be kept informed of the veterans we are helping. Any questions, contact Cindy Hart.
Giant Gift Card Rewards Program ~ GIANT SHOPPERS! We have been selling Giant Gift Coupons for the past year and about 10 families that support the program.
The Giant Card program had a profit of $725 for 2019.
We can increase this amount by simply buying more Giant cards from Tina McCardle when you see her a church or by calling her at 610-838-6784 to order cards. She usually has gift cards with her and cash or checks made out to NJELC are acceptable. This is an easy fundraiser for all who shop at Giant! Happy New Year!
We would invite you to participate in this EASY program to support New Jerusalem Church!
Giant gift coupons are available in the Upper Room during coffee hour each Sunday. You can purchase your gift coupons with cash or a check made out to NJELC. Denominations are $100, $50, $25, and $20 cards are available immediately. If you wish to place a larger order, over $300.00, please contact or see Tina McCardle and she will see that your order can be filled properly.
We could be selling more of these coupons if you would only give it a try and get in the habit of making the gift coupon purchase prior to your food shopping trip!
Please see Tina McCardle in the Upper Room to help support our efforts in the church. Call her with questions or future special orders at 610-838-6784 or email her at cameron35@rcn.com. Tina Young will be assisting when Tina McCardle is not available.