March 21, 2024 E-Vine

The March 2024 monthly Vine is available on our website.

To keep up-to-date with what is happening at St. John’s, CLICK HERE .

 

 

“How Much Does It Cost?”

March 24, 2024

Please CLICK HERE to download the service notes.

As We Gather

Today is Palm Sunday and Passion Sunday, two celebrations in one service.  We begin with a commemoration of Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem.  Then we look forward to the events of the coming week, and the Passion of our Lord, culminating with His atoning sacrifice on the cross. Our attention has been drawn to how much things cost by the inflation in our economy.  It’s a good thing that grace is free!  Or is it?  Free for us, but costly for the Lord.  How much did it cost?  The events of Holy Week culminating in the cross show us just how much it cost.  And yet it was a price He willingly, lovingly gave.  As we read the account of the Passion, let our minds be drawn to the cost and to the great love that paid it.  We will celebrate Holy Communion at this service. The service  begins in Faith Chapel.

Live-stream and in-person worship begin at 9:30 AM.  Please CLICK HERE to download the link to the live-stream itself.*   

   

        

Children’s Ministry: 

• Where did all the eggs go?!   Please join us for our annual Easter Egg Hunt at 10am on Easter Sunday!

• VBS – It’s time to SCUBA!  The VBS date is set, June 17-20. Sign ups are open and volunteers are needed. Please go check out our website to see if there is a role for you.

• Children’s Church Leaders…  We are blessed to have so many young kids with us each Sunday, but we are running low on Children’s Church leaders. If you are looking for a place to serve here at St. John’s I ask you to consider working in Children’s Church. It’s an awesome way for the kids to hear the good news of Jesus delivered in a way suitable for them to understand and hold on to. Please get in contact with Kevin Mathison if you have any questions about getting involved. We would love to have you join the team!

Surge:

• Our next Surge is scheduled for Tuesday, March 26 from 6-7:30.  This is open for our 5th & 6th graders to come hang out, play games, and dive into a devotion.

Confirmation: 

• Confirmation Sunday is approaching quickly!   On May 5th our confirmands will confirm their faith and share their Faith Statements with y’all.   Please join me in praying for all of our students and families as we near the end of our Confirmation year.

High School:

• Please take a moment to fill out these two  surveys  regarding our High School Ministry.   Student Survey & Parent Survey. 

 

 

 

There are two opportunities for growth on Sunday mornings.  Pastor Mike is leading “Foundations” in Room 10 (see below).  Joel Wahlers is leading a study on the Gospel of Mark in Room 8 (see below). 

The Gospel of Mark

In this study, Joel Wahlers is making use of a Right Now Video course led by author and speaker Francis Chan.  Tracing the steps of Jesus and the Twelve through Israel, Francis explores the major themes of the Gospel of Mark, and asks: Are we willing to take this journey to embrace discipleship?

Foundations: An Overview of the Christian Faith

Pastor Mike is leading a nine-session overview of the basic teachings of the Christian Faith.  This study in basic Christianity will cover all the essential teachings, how they fit together into one compelling story, and what they mean for our lives today.

 

 

Holy Week at St. John’s

Holy Week commemorates the culminating week in the life of Jesus, and the events at the heart of the salvation through faith in Him.   For more information on the services, click here.

• Palm Sunday (March 24, 9:30 AM). Weather permitting we will begin in the Faith Chapel and process into the sanctuary with palm branches.
• Maundy Thursday (March 28, 7:00 PM) is a commemoration of Jesus’ “Last Supper.” We will also be celebrating the First Communion of those who have been preparing to be welcomed to the Lord’s Supper.
• Good Friday (March 29, 7:00 PM) marks the day that Jesus was crucified. Our evening service (7:00 PM) is a Tenebrae Service, a service of gradually darkening the sanctuary.
• Easter Vigil (March 30, 8:00 PM) is the first celebration of the resurrection.  Weather permitting, we begin in the Faith Chapel with the Service of Light.
• On Easter Sunday (March 31), we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus. The 8:30 AM service in the sanctuary is led with traditional hymns and the choir.  The 10:30 AM service in the Faith Chapel (weather permitting) is led by the worship band.
• Easter Breakfast , Our annual Easter breakfast, put on by St. John’s Youth, will be in the Parish Hall from 9:00 – 10:30 AM.

 

Pastor Mike’s Bookshelf

“The Screwtape Letters”

By  C.S. Lewis

This book is a classic, one that I have read several times.  It never fails to entertain, challenge, convict and educate, even after several readings.  As I prepared to preach on The Lord’s Prayer for our Lent Midweek services (especially “Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil”), I thought it would be a good time to return to Screwtape’s instructions to his protégé Wormwood.  Once again, I found it a blessing, not just to my sermon preparation, but to my personal walk with the Lord.

The book is a series of fictional letters from Screwtape, a senior devil and close associate of “our Father below,” to Wormwood, a junior devil who has been charged with pursuing the damnation of an ordinary young man.  Screwtape’s instructions are at times comical, satirical, but also profoundly insightful regarding the true purposes of the demonic.  You will never look at the scope and breadth of temptation in the same way.

Lewis first published this book in 1942, therefore many of the events of the young man’s life are in the context of wartime England.  For that reason, some of it might feel a bit dated.  But even still, the depiction of the fallibility of our human nature, and our persistent susceptibility to temptation is, unfortunately, timeless. 

This brief read is also a testament to Lewis’ brilliance as a creative writer.  That he conveys so much through one side of a fictional written correspondence is really rather amazing.  I can’t recommend this book highly enough for anyone seeking to grow in understanding what we’re up against in the daily spiritual warfare we are engaged in.   All for the purpose of clinging every more tightly to Christ, in whom all the forces of evil are defeated.  

There is a copy of this book, along with most of the previously recommended books on the Church Library cart in the Narthex, available for checking out. For previous recommendations CLICK HERE 

 

Mission India Partnership

We are thankful to the Lord for the privilege that we have to partner with Mission India for the spread of the kingdom and the changing of lives in India.  We will soon be making our decision regarding our partnership with Mission India for the coming year.  Namely, how many Literacy projects, Children’s Bible Club projects and Church planters we will sponsor in the coming year.  We will make that choice based on the balance in the “Mission India Fund” on May 6.   If you would like to support out partnership financially, please mark your offering for Mission India.  You can do this with a physical check or online.

 

Memorial Service for Bonnie Wilson

 Friday, April 5 at 1:00 PM.  

 

Board of Directors Nominations

The Board of Directors is receiving Board nominations for the 2024-2025 fiscal year.  There are nine members of the Board of Directors.  Five of these positions are up for election this year.  Board members serve for a two-year term and can serve a maximum of three consecutive terms. If you are interested in nominating someone (or yourself) for the Board of Directors, CLICK HERE to download information about qualifications and responsibilities.  Also included is a nomination form to be completed and returned to the church office, John Van Hofwegen, or Pastor Mike by May 15. There will be a Board Information Forum on Thursday, April 11 at 7:00 in the Library for those who are interested in being nominated for the board.  This forum is a mandatory part of the nomination process.  Those who are interested in being nominated need to attend.  This forum is also open to anyone who just wants to learn more about the governance polity of St. John’s, and how the Board works. Nomination forms are available in the E-vine, in the church office, or by coming to the forum.  These forms are to be returned to Board Chair, John Van Hofwegen, or Pastor Mike Schmid by May 15.  

 

 

Endowment Fund Disbursement Application Process

The purpose of the St. John’s Endowment Fund is to receive, to manage and to distribute funding to support and implement the mission and vision of St. John’s Lutheran Church.  A the end of December, the value of the fund was approximately $1.33 million.   Please refer to the Endowment Fund By-Laws for a complete description of what the funds may be used for, and how they are managed: Endowment Fund By-Laws Each year up to 5% of the value of the fund is available for disbursement to support the ministry.  For some of the funds that make up the overall fund, the disbursements have defined purposes (tuition assistance, etc.)  The Endowment Fund Committee is receiving applications for 2024 2025 disbursements from the “SJL Ministries” portion of the endowment fund. This year there is approximately $36,000 available to be disbursed from this fund.  If you have an idea for a ministry disbursement and would like to submit an application, please click on this link to download an application: Endowment Fund Application.  The deadline for applications is April 1, 2024.  Please send or drop off applications to the church office.  The Endowment Fund Committee will then review all applications and make recommendations to the Board of Directors.  

 

   

 

Fellowship at St. John’s Survey

We are planning to offer a variety of fellowship opportunities this coming year.  If you didn’t fill out the blue paper survey in church, please click the link below to fill out this form and indicate which events are of interest to you, as well as which ones you would like to help make happen. Thanks for taking the time to help us plan fellowship events! CLICK HERE for the link.

 

 

Worship Tech Overhaul

“Faith Comes From Hearing”

We’ve heard your feedback and understand that one of the biggest challenges you and our visitors face when attending worship in person or watching the livestream is participating in the service because it’s difficult to see or hear God’s Word, the lessons, and the beautiful music that’s raised up to God in praise. With these concerns in mind, we’re doing a complete and total overhaul of the audio and visual technology in the St. John’s sanctuary and Faith Chapel. We’re working to create an experience that is free of distractions, allowing our members, visitors, students, and families to focus on the most import element of any gathering held at St. John’s: God’s Word. If you would like to help support this mission, we ask that you do so through your offerings. There are three ways you can give:

1. In person using your offering envelope
2. By clicking: Donate to St. John’s Lutheran (https://bit.ly/DonatetoStJohnsLutheran)
3. By using the Vanco Mobile app

We ask that you notate your donation with “Faith Comes From Hearing” or “Worship Tech Overhaul” to ensure it is applied to this project.

 

 

Women’s Bible Study

We have concluded the book of Ephesians and will be starting the book of 1 Peter on April 8th.  We are taking this short break in order to concentrate on this important season of Easter. We are changing things up a bit when we resume in April as Elaine Zimmerman will facilitate some of the teaching moments!  Please consider joining us each Monday, starting        April 8^th at 10:00 AM, in our sanctuary!      Have a blessed Easter!
Romans 5:8 “But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us…”
Judi Rock (707)738-6707

 

Men’s Saturday Morning Bible Study

The Men’s Saturday Morning Bible Study is currently studying the Gospel of Luke.  Join us for fellowship at 7:30 AM and Bible Study from 8-9 AM.

 

     

New Email Addresses for the Church

Please make a note that we are changing the email addresses for the church.  Please use the following email addresses for correspondence.

• Church Office: churchoffice@stjohnsnapa.org
• Pastor Mike: pastormike@stjohnsnapa.org
• Kevin Mathison: kevin@stjohnsnapa.org
• Tim Kramer: tkramer@stjohnsnapa.org

What is different?  The domain “stjohnsnapa.org” instead of “stjohnslutheran.net.”  We are moving away from the “stjohnslutheran.net” so that all emails, church and school, will be “stjohnsnapa.org.”   The old emails will remain active for a time to make sure we don’t miss anything, but please update your address books accordingly.

 

Coffee Ministry Needs Help

Do you enjoy the coffee hour after church?    Would you like to be part of this ministry?   We are looking for additional people to join us!   Join a team or get some friends and make a team. Three or four people are ideal.  On the job training will be provided.

Responsibilities are: • arriving prior to service to set up • providing refreshments – may be baked or purchased • making coffee • setting up serving tables and seating • serving the refreshments • clean up

We appreciate the people who help set up and put away tables and chairs and those who contribute refreshments.  This is a welcoming time of fellowship for both members and visitors.  Any questions or willingness to serve – please contact Susan or Bill Clark or the church office.

 

 

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 Christmas Donation THANK YOU!

CLICK HERE to view list of requested items.

 

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…