The August 2023 monthly Vine is available on our website.
To keep up-to-date with what is happening at St. John’s, CLICK HERE .
Jesus is Better
“Offering a Sacrifice of Praise”
August 13, 2023
Please CLICK HERE to download the service notes.
As We Gather
We continue our series “Jesus is Better,” a study of the letter to the Hebrews. This letter is actually a written sermon to believers who were struggling with their faith. They were being tempted to go back to a life without Jesus, a life rooted in the unfulfilled promises and pictures of the Old Testament. The writer of this letter seeks to show them in many ways that Jesus is better, not only better than what they had before, but better than everything. The writer sums up his call to remain faithful in Jesus by focusing on sacrifice. Because of the blessings which are ours through the sacrifice of Jesus, we offer to Him a sacrifice of praise, lives lived to His glory and a blessing to others.
Live-stream and in-person worship begin at 9:30 AM. Please CLICK HERE to download the link to the live-stream itself.
We will celebrate Holy Communion at this service.
Pastor Mike’s Bookshelf
What is a Girl Worth? One Woman’s Courageous Battle to Protect the Innocent and Stop a Predator- No Matter the Cost By Rachael Dennhollander
This book is both disturbing and inspiring. It is the story of the first woman to publicly speak out about the mega-abuser Larry Nasser when he was a highly respected doctor for gymnasts, including the USA gymnastics team. Rachael Dennhollander pressed through numerous obstacles and fierce opposition, along with coming to terms with her own abuse. But she never stopped in her pursuit of justice, and as a result, Larry Nasser will be behind bars for the rest of his life.
Why is this book on my list as a recommendation? It is because Rachael Dennhollander is also a very committed Christian, dedicated to following Christ while pursuing justice, including Christ’s call to forgive others as He has forgiven us. How do justice and forgiveness work together? How do we forgive someone who is unrepentant, and has done great evil against us and others?
Not only is Rachael’s story compelling, her theological insight and application provide one of the best from-the-trenches presentations of living Christ’s forgiveness that I have ever read. I told her story as part of the “Forgive” Lent Midweek series earlier this year. I highly recommend this book, but please be warned: parts are very disturbing.
There is a copy of this book, along with previously recommended books on the Church Library cart in the Narthex, available for checking out.
Youth News
Attention all incoming 7th, 8th, & 9th graders! On August 11-12 the CNH District will be hosting a lock-in at St. Philip in Dublin. I want you to come with us to attend the event! This is your chance to “Let Your Light Shine” as you stay up all night in fellowship with students from across the district! Plenty of games, food, and of course devotion! Come end the summer with a bang at this District Lock-in! Contact Kevin Mathison if you would like to attend this event.
Confirmation Parent Meeting will be Wednesday, August 30th at 7:00 PM in Room 10. Contact Kevin if you have any questions.
St. John’s Lutheran School
The 2023-2024 school year is about to begin and St. John’s Lutheran School is in need of a Spanish teach (part-time) and Computer Teacher/IT coordinator (full-time position with church and school responsibilities).. If you are interested, would like more information, or know of someone who may in interested in either of these positions, please contact Christy Wood at cwood@stjohnsnapa.org.
Sunday Bible Class resumes September 3.
Please note the change from the previous announcements. Pastor Mike will be starting a new class on September 3 after worship (11:00 AM).
Biblical Counseling at St John’s?
The Biblical Counseling Center of Napa Valley
The Biblical Counseling Center of Napa Valley is a ministry to the families of St. John’s Lutheran Church and all Christians in the greater Napa area. Our center began some 25 years ago to offer strength and direction to those Christians suffering through trials and tribulations using the promises and hope the Bible offers to those who trust Jesus as their Lord and Savior. To learn more, CLICK HERE. If you, or someone you know, is struggling with life’s stressors, please consider giving us a call at 707-738-5306. (We are a free ministry to all).
Right Now Media
Right now media is an online resource providing Christian videos for all ages: Children’s resource, Bible Studies, lectures and more. As a congregation, we have subscribed to Right Now Media, so access is free for all in our St. John’s family. If you haven’t already signed up for Right Now Media, CLICK HERE.
Napa State Hospital Donation UPDATE
Please refer to list on the collection box in the Narthex (Church Entryway).
As a Thrivent member, you are eligible for two Thrivent Action Teams per year. Thrivent Action Teams are a great way to make a positive impact in your community. Thrivent offers all the resources you need to get started, including up to $250 in seed money. Your team below provide the passion that brings your project to life. Here are some ideas on how you can help us here at St. John’s…
- Youth Events, VBS, Mission Farm, Large Print Ministry and LCC K9 Comfort Dog Ministry
Please call the church office if you are inspired to help with projects like these above and much more. Christy Kramer will be happy to help you apply for your Action Team Card.
CLICK HERE for instructions. CLICK HERE for more information.
Do you wish to receive the E-Vine by text?
Signing up is simple. Just text “sjlctext” to 855-906-0515. When an e-vine is sent out, you will receive a text with a link which will take you to the current e-vine. If you currently receive the e-vine by email, you will continue to receive it that way as well, unless you request for it to stop.
Where do I find sermons and services that I missed?
You can find previous sermons in three places. The full services are available on the YouTube channel.
- YouTube Channel:
- https://www.youtube.com/user/stjohnsnapaca/live
- There are playlists for sermons, Sunday Services, Wednesday Night Worship and teaching on Matthew
- RightNow Media Channel
- https://www.rightnowmedia.org/CustomLibrary/41667
- Scroll down to find recommendations as well as sermon and Gospel of Matthew lessons
- Website
- https://stjohnslutheran.net/sermons-2/
- The sermons are arranged by worship series
Ongoing News and Information
LCC K9 Comfort Dog Info… Scrip Info: What is Scrip?… Social Media at St. John’s… Mission India…
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