April 2012

APRIL 2012   Calvary Lutheran Church & School April Pastor Pondering   In March we wrap up our Lenten worship. Although April 1st has been called the annual celebration for atheists because it is April Fool's Day - April 1, 2012 holds the high position this year of Palm Sunday-Sunday of the Passion for Christians. This is the day that leads us into Holy Week. On Palm Sunday I am use to meeting outside, weather permitting, reading the Palm Sunday Gospel outside and then entering the Sanctuary singing as we read the Passion Gospel. I also like to invite all worshippers to take home a Palm Branch after the service and place it behind a Christian picture in your home. Then you can bring back those dried branches in late January and early February so they can be burned for Ash Wednesday, Feb. 13, 2013.      During Holy Week we will have a special service on April 5th, Maundy Thursday at 2:15pm as our closing School chapel for Easter Break. That evening we worship at 7pm with a focus on Luke 22-when Jesus washed his disciples' feet and instituted the Lord's Supper. This year, our new confirmands will receive their First Communion at this service. As you recall, after instituting the Lord's Supper, Jesus went to Gethsemane to pray. He emptied himself for us and so we will strip the Altar and Chancel area during this service before we leave as a reminder of the price Jesus paid for our salvation. The next day is Good Friday and you are invited to the Tre Ore Good Friday Service at Good Shepherd from noon to 3pm. The theme is the Seven Words of Christ on the Cross. I will be bringing the First Word at noon followed by Pastor Werth who will bring the Second Word. That evening we will have a Tenebrae service here at Calvary at 7:30 pm. Tenebrae means darkness and we realize how our sin separates us from our gracious God.      This year our Easter Worship will be held at 8am and 10:45am with breakfast from 7:30-11am. As you know, we are trying to make this a special time of praise with our new choir and other special music. What a grand time to celebrate. An Easter Egg hunt will take place between the two services.      For the rest of April I will be bringing a 3 part sermon series titled: "Share Your Gift." In Acts 1 Jesus sends us out. Let's gather so we can be sent. Remember that Sunday, April 29 is a fifth Sunday with ONE service at 10 am.      I look forward to worshiping with all of you during this important time of our Christian faith. Come, now is the time to worship. YOU are key to letting our light shine in San Lorenzo. God bless you all. Pastor Gary <+><    April Anniversaries 4/2     Russell & Norma Smith               46 years 4/6     Steve & Anne Ellis                    21 years 4/8     John & Audrey Ohanesian          51 years 4/13   Stephen & Karla Regnier            16 years 4/14   Antonio & Aida Landaverde        28 years 4/19    Steve & Bernadette Vigneau      28 years     April Birthdays 4/2        Katy Gerome              Marlene Mueller 4/3        Vanessa Harris 4/4        Holly Jensen 4/5        Robert Ellis 4/6        Ethan Sosa 4/7        Al Naiman 4/9        Norma Blank 4/10      Rosalie Ellis 4/12      Jeff Jensen             Odin Anderson 4/13      William Sandau 4/16      David Cannella     * * * * * * * * * * * * *    Calvary School Invites you to join with us in prayer as we seek validation as a trustworthy institution of learning.   The Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC), represented by an Accreditation Visiting Team, will be visiting our school this Sunday, March 25th through Wednesday, March 28th. Throughout the week, WASC team members will be meeting with Administration, Teaching Faculty, Focus Group Members and Calvary Lutheran Church Leadership. The WASC Team will also observe all aspects of our educational program.     Please join us Wednesday, March 28th, at 3:15, for a final report to the Staff and Stakeholders of Calvary Lutheran Church and School. All are invited to attend this event held in the church!   OWL Youth Group (6,7,8 Grade)    April 27-28 Planet Wisdom   The Experience (Sr. High Youth)  Every Sunday 6-8pm (NO Youth Group on Easter)  Easter Egg Hunt April 8th @ 9:30am (preschool- 6th Gr.) 8am Traditional Worship 10:45am Worship Service Easter Breakfast (Youth Fundraiser) 7:30-11am $5/person   April Calendar   February Financials    Golf Tournament    Needed: plastic Easter eggs and wrapped candy for our Easter Egg hunt on Easter Sunday at 9:30am Tre-Ore Service You are invited to the Concordia Circuit Good Friday Tre-Ore Service to be held from noon to 3:00 pm on April 6th at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 166 West Harder Rd., Hayward. Area Lutheran Pastors will give these messages on Christ's Seven Words from the Cross. This   service is actually composed of seven short services each lasting about 25 minutes. Therefore you are invited to come when you can and leave when you must. We hope YOU can participate.         Military Pictures   If you or a loved one have served or are serving in the military please bring a picture of them in uniform into the church office or email to churchsecretary@calvaryslz.org. We are putting together a slideshow for a project. (All PICTURES WILL BE RETURNED)     Remember the Dates... April 5- Maundy Thursday 7pm April 6- Tre-Ore Service 12-3pm (Good Shepherd) April 6- Good Friday Service 7:30pm April 9-Annual Golf Tournament    April 27, 28-  Planet Wisdom May 3- National Day of Prayer May 5- Wittenberg Tea May 6- Confirmation Sunday 10:45am May 13- Begin Summer Service Schedule ONE 9am Service June 5- 8th Gr. Graduation 7pm August 6-10- VBS "SKY"   * * * * * * * * *      YOU ARE INVITED! In recital MATTHEW EVANS, Baritone YVONNE WORMER, Piano Saturday, April 14, 2012, 4pm   Good Shepherd Lutheran Church 166 West Harder Road Hayward, CA  94544 Featuring Gabriel Faure's   LaBonne Chanson. Other works by Duparc, Foster, Hahn, Luna, Rorem, Winslow, more. Followed by champagne/wine and hors d'oeruvres reception.   FREE ADMISSION     BRING A FRIEND!     BOARD OF GOVERNANCE February 23, 2012   Present: Barbara Adams, Jeff Jensen, Darlene Goldhammer, Pastor Mohr   Pastor Mohr opened with prayer and devotion based on Rev. 3:14-21, the letter to the church of Laodicea. They were a poor rich church, and God said that because they were neither hot nor cold but luke warm He would spit them out of His mouth. He called on them to repent; He was knocking at the door and would come into them when they had repented.   Laodicea was the wealthiest of the seven churches. What the people were lacking was the truth, which can only come from the word of God. In Hebrews 12 Jesus is giving words of truth which we need to live by today. Jesus hides nothing from us but makes the truth known. Jesus was before the world began and will always be. All things were made by Him and without Him nothing was made that was made. Though these are things we cannot understand, they are still true and we must accept by the power of the Holy Spirit working faith in us.   The church of Laodicea needed to be rejuvenated because they were into history making, based on their past, and not gospel making. The church had two problems. Their commitment to Christ was not what it once had been, and they were truly poor since sharing the gospel was no longer their main mission. How does Calvary compare to Laodicea?   Is our church luke warm? Are we being challenged and are we succeeding at presenting the gospel, or are we a religious country club relying on our glorious past? As a church and as individuals, are we providing the "salty" salt flavoring our world around us needs?   In the last times we are told that people will listen only to those who say what the listeners want to hear. Jesus tells us to take up the cross and follow Him. We need to get back into the Word and allow the Holy Spirit to change us from the inside out so that we in turn can share His life-giving truth with the world around us.   UNFINISHED and NEW BUSINESS   A congregational meeting has been scheduled for March 18 between services. The main reason for the meeting will be to review our finances based on our budget for the first six months of our fiscal year. The other item on the agenda will be a report from the Call Committee.   Principal Fred Brauer is working on a grant application to provide funding to expand our preschool. Jeff Jensen and Lee Strom will work with Fred on providing needed information.   Jeff will check on a phone for the Youth Room. We are in the process of contacting seven people to serve on our Youth Committee. We will extend letters of interest to three more potential BO G candidates.   Joni and Friends will be appearing in several Bay Area locations during March. We will advertise her appearance in the Chronicle and the Sunday bulletin.   We closed with prayer by all present. Next BOG meeting, March 8, 2012.   Respectfully submitted, Darlene Goldhammer, BOG Secretary  Prayers   Thanksgiving For baby boy Simeon Emmanuel Blank who was born March 4;For the birth of Gerry & Margie Luehrs' grand daughter, Natalie Elaine Kofsky on March 9  Peace in the World   President Obama and our country's leadership - For our soldiers in Afghanistan: Kyle Hyden, nephew of Skjong's; and for Frank Mitchell II, Thomas Caspersen & Antonio Landaverde who are overseas; for those in the Reserves- Jonathan Ellis; Talitha Benz, now stationed in Arizona For our Staff Fred Brauer; Margie Luehrs; Chrystle Vincent; Traci McClain; Amy Sosa; Christina Grace; Bethany Chhom; Ellen Hackerd; Kristi Morlock; Abby Einspahr; Mike Souza; Doug Henry; Kim Heggins; Blenda Schultz; Michelle Michael; Sherrie Akre; Carol Liston; Cecilia Guerra; Cindy Suppus; Lydiana Sanchez; Holly Contier; Pastor Gary Ministry Guidance For our interim ministry need; Marketing Ideas; Wittenberg Manor   Outreach; Evangelism; Children's, Family and Youth Ministries; Parish Education; School Enrollment Peace and Comfort For the family of Miriam Brohm who passed away on Feb. 26 at the age of 96; for the Curler family for the loss of a cousin; For the family of Annette English and the passing of her father, Bill Olsen Cancer Patients Pat Brown; Bettie Benz' son-in-law, Stephen Comfort, complications with blood clot ; Dee Lazaga (Edith Mena's sister), ovarian cancer; Evelyn Asker; Joyce Schwartz, Leanne Mueller's mother; Melody Saldate; Wanda Grimm Physical, Emotional or Spiritual Healing Phil Caspersen; Barbara Arionus; Daniel Jensen; For Amy Sosa's mother, Dianne;David Cannella's upcoming tests in March; Frank Mitchell, hearing loss; Millie Salo; Mabel Stafne; Susan Hoffman; Esther Garguilo; Willine Watson; Marlene Mueller; Angela Garcia; Adolph Stafne; Marie Curtis; Van Deckert; John Ohanesian; Tyler & Dave Flynn Expectant mothers Grace Ramos; Colleen Martchenke- due August; Stephanie Mendia- due June; Emily Blank- due June; Candice Kofsky- due March Personal Needs & Other Concerns Marriage difficulties; elderly parents and those in need of employment      Calvary website: www.calvaryslz.org (request a prayer quilt, send an eprayer)     Address Update: Marty, Candice & Natalie Kofsky 4215 Crackersport Road Allentown, PA 18104    Amazing (7th Gr. Article)               It truly is extraordinary to witness the ebb and flow of time, the changing of the seasons, and the leaps and bounds made by a group of young men and women. In Calvary, I have found a family that keeps on growing, learning, and inspiring each other. Each of the students has taught me so much - and here I thought I was the teacher. Sharing the reciprocity of education with such marvelous people has been and is such a blessing. Every once in a while I pinch myself to make sure that this is not a dream. When I know for certain that I am cognizant and breathing, I ponder the idea that in a few short months I will have to release "my children" back into the pool of summerdom and learn how life works without them for a while. It nearly takes my breath away.             It's hard to believe this is my sixth year here at Calvary. In that time, we have shared fear on the ropes courses of Outdoor Ed. We have tackled the task of team work and cooperation and then we tackled it again when we discovered that the first try was less than ideal. We have discovered artists, poets, and actors/actresses in amazing parts of our beings through literature, art, drama, and even language. We have begun to plant seeds of intrigue and investigation into areas of art and literature that extend beyond the base curriculum. We have tried and erred and we have felt the excitement of success. Together we have found that the proverbial "bunny trail" in class can lead to fantastic discoveries - albeit slightly off the day's official topic. Sixth-grade has traveled to ancient Greece and back (with only a few minor scrapes and bruises after that battle with Troy!). Seventh-grade has survived an extended tour of the Klondike thanks to our good ol' pal Buck (good thing the dog can hunt for food). Eighth-grade has discovered cloaked writers and artists that have been hidden for far too long within themselves as we have chanted together, "I CAN DO THIS!!!" and played with the writing of narratives. We have laughed and, yes, we have cried. More than anything else, we have learned and taught together.             What an amazing journey. I am still trying to decide if I am the tour guide or if I am the one that is the tourist. If I have discovered one thing so in the years here at CLS, I have learned that I am not the only teacher in my classroom. There are as many teachers, writers, poets, and dreamers as there are people, and together we make a great team. As much as I look forward to seeing each of the students move on to the next stage and grade in life, the coming of summer, and the new school year, there is a part of me that feels a twinge of sadness at the thought of "my children", my family moving on. At the start of each school year we discuss the fact that each and every person has their own unique talents and gifts - what an amazing feeling and opportunity to see those talents and gifts shine, grow, expand, and diversify as we grow and learn together. Absolutely amazing.   Kristi Morlock - 7th-grade touring tour-guide Calvary Lutheran School    Mission Outreach to Children   Consider an opportunity to... Adopt - a - Student   By contributing toward school tuition for those in need of assistance and seeking a Christian Education.   I am interested in adopting a student at Calvary Lutheran School for the 2012-2013 school year.   Name:                                                            Phone:                                                              one time gift of $                               monthly gift of $                               (names of students will remain confidential)   Please respond to Mr. Brauer or the school office at 278-2598. God Bless you.

Mike Squires' preparations for transitioning to Team Expansion to continue missionary service in Africa, March 2012

My years of service in Africa have brought me into contact with many wonderful people and their organizations. It became clear that I could make a deeper contribution to mission in Africa through Team Expansion, a church planting mission that is committed to holistic ministry, helping people improve their lives both spiritually and physically. Over the last few years I have learned of the great work done by their members, and have made an application to join Team Expansion as a member, serving with Terry and Amy Ruff in Buipe, Ghana. Please look at the Team Expansion website www.teamexpansion.org for more information about their current programs. I will attend an orientation program in Louisville in April 30 - May 18, a training program in Louisville August 6-24, and return to Africa later in 2012. The orientation and training expenses will each cost $1,000 for fees and plane fare.

I am deeply grateful for Wycliffe enabling me to serve in Africa over the years and look forward to keeping in touch with many dear friends and former colleagues as we serve the people in Africa. Wycliffe will continue to accept donations for my financial support through April 30. Contributions may be given online (www.wycliffe.org) or by check (payable to Wycliffe Bible Translators, PO Box 628200, Orlando, Florida 32862-8200). Include a separate note to indicate your interest in the ministry of Mike Squires, #283780. Your financial donation to Wycliffe is tax-deductible.

It's your faithful support in prayer and financial gifts that allow me to use the gifts that God has given me to serve in Africa. I request those who financially support me to send those gifts to Team Expansion as soon as I am accepted for membership in May, details to follow. Team Expansion is recognized by the IRS as a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt nonprofit religious corporation.

Praises:
-That God is providing me with more opportunities to serve Him. After serving His church in the US I will return to West Africa by the end of 2012, this time to English-speaking Ghana.

Prayer Requests:
-That God will provide the prayer and financial support necessary for continued service in West Africa. I need $1,000 to pay for the May orientation, contributions can be sent through Wycliffe until April 30.
-That someone will step up and help me by serving as a Forwarding Agent sending my support money to Ghana.
-The health and liffe insurance and retirement benefits will now be arranged through the local church rather than arranged through the mission agency.
-For wisdom, guidance and travel mercies while in Louisville during May for orientation, and during August for training.

Mike Squires

March, 2012

Calvary E-Chronicle cont'd Pastor's Thoughts                                                   March 2012 We are Calling a Pastor - What Does This Mean? Here are some observations I have found as I fill in as your vacancy pastor. Peter Drucker, a leadership guru, said that the four hardest jobs in America (and not necessarily in order, he added) are: The President of the United States A university president A CEO of a hospital and A pastor Is that true? Pastors love God and love people. They get to pray for people, lead people to a faith in Jesus Christ and teach people the Word of God. That sounds like a dream job. You can read the Bible all day, pray, play a little golf and preach. I want to do that (but I don't play golf-now what?)! Here is the secret. Being a pastor is hard work. It's not for wimps. This is the reality-the job of a pastor can be 24/7 and carry unique challenges. You have let me slack as your part-time vacancy pastor. Thanks for that! Some pastors wear themselves out trying to help people. Some wound their family because they are so involved in ministry. Others flourish in their ministry and personal life. Approximately 85% of churches in America have less than 200 people. 60% of churches are under 100 people. The average size congregation in USA is 89 people, according to The Barna Group. Staffs are small and needs are great. In many situations the pastor needs to be a Bible teacher, accountant, strategist, visionary, computer tech, counselor, public speaker, worship director, prayer warrior, mentor, leadership trainer and fundraiser. Who can be all of that? 90% of pastors said the ministry was completely different than what they thought it would be like before they entered the ministry. 70% say they have a lower self-image now than when they first started. Personally, I love being a pastor. We have great people at Calvary Lutheran Church. I am content. Of course, it's a lot easier to be "content" when things are going well. I have great friends who are pastors. My marriage is strong. I am a better man because God called me to be a pastor. Some of the unique problems that pastors' face are: 1. Criticism Pastors can be criticized by a lot of people for a multitude of things. "Music is too loud. Worship is not long enough. It's too long." "Sermon is not deep enough. It's too long." "Pastor thinks he's too important. It took me 3 weeks to get an appointment." "You talk too much about money." "...can I talk to you for a minute, Pastor?" This simple question can cause a pastor to think: "Oy vey. Now what?" We pastors need to find a way to not take criticism so personally and learn from truths that could be hidden in the criticism. 2. Rejection Members leave, leaders leave and pastors' friends leave. The reality is-people leave. The smaller the church, the more obvious it is when people leave. Some leave for reasonable decisions, many leave 'ungracefully'. They leave the big churches too-by the thousands. When people leave our church of about 150-it is so disappointing. When people leave huge churches, and they do, their loss is not so noticeable. These words cause a pastor to wonder about his call into the ministry: "I'm leaving." "We want something deeper." "My needs aren't getting met." Every pastor has heard, "I'm not getting fed here." Really? Not getting fed? Perhaps it's time to offer your talents to help us feed one another. One of the most difficult conditions to achieve is to have a "tough skin and a soft heart." Love people, hold them lightly and don't take it personally. "...uhhh, OK. Lord help us." 3. Betrayal Staff leaders may not support the congregation and the direction the pastor desires to see the congregation grow. The pastor trusts a person with a title and that person has a different agenda. Church staff causing problems is a betrayal. Pastors rightfully think, "We're paying you to solve problems, not cause them. I don't need to pay someone a salary to create problems." 40% report a conflict with a church member at least once a month. 85% of pastors said their greatest problem is they are tired of dealing with problem people, such as disgruntled elders, deacons, board members, associate pastors, and paid staff. The #1 reason pastors leave the ministry is that church members are not willing to follow or change. 40% of pastors say they have considered leaving their pastorates in the last three months. We pastors have to find a way, with God's grace, to love people as if we have never been hurt before. 4. Loneliness Who's my friend? Who can I trust? Who can I talk to about my problems? 70% do not have someone they consider a close friend. Are my friends really my friends or a church member who is a temporary friend who may leave any day now? Healthy friendships are crucial to a fulfilling life, especially to the well-being of a pastor. 5. Weariness 50% of the ministers starting out will not last 5 years. 70% felt God called them to pastoral ministry before their ministry began, but after three years of ministry, only 50% still felt called. Keeping personally refreshed is an art and a science... and extremely important. 6. Frustrations & Disappointments Disappointments come in many ways. Because of smaller congregations, the average compensation package for pastors is a subsistence salary. There are many things pastors in this salary range are not able to do for their family that other people around them can do. There are many areas of ministry that judging "success" is difficult. Pastors can be hard on themselves. We work in an area that good work and good effort does not always guarantee success. Many pastors work hard, do their best, but can't connect with their members. It's frustrating. Some days leaders feel like they can't seem to do anything right. The ministry finally gets momentum and then a leader leaves. Things are going well and then a couple of the biggest givers leave. The church needs money but the pastor doesn't want to put too much focus on money. It's not about the money-but it becomes about the money. All of this can be overwhelming. 4,000 new churches begin each year and 7,000 churches close. Over 1,700 pastors left the ministry every month last year. Over 3,500 people a day left the church last year. 50% of pastors feel so discouraged that they would leave the ministry if they could, but have no other way of making a living. 45.5 % of pastors say that they've experienced depression or burnout to the extent that they needed to take a leave of absence from ministry. This is not the case for all pastors. In fact many manage to handle these issues well. How Christians and church members can help. Pray for your pastor  Pray for guidance, protection, healthy friends, their marriage and family. Pray for inspiration, anointing, the leadership team, unity and clarity. Pray for our Call Committee as they seek the pastor God desires to lead Calvary. Protect your pastor  As best you can don't allow or participate in gossip and criticism. How can you serve and problem solve to prevent overload? Encourage your pastor  Thank him for his ministry and sacrifice. Tell them a specific time in which you or someone you know experienced a life change in their church. Honor them to others. Let your pastors know you are praying for them. According to the Barna report-the profession of "Pastor" is near the bottom of a survey of the most-respected professions, just above "car salesman." Insert a prayer or inspirational message to your members. *********************************  Here's a copy of the links from President Matthew Harrison's discussion before Congress on Health Care that were posted in the last issue. http://youtu.be/HAdkZLHXKUs http://youtu.be/527spTZiwBU     January Financials

March 2012

March 2012 E-Chronicle Calvary Lutheran Church & School A word from Pastor: Below are two You Tube links that will play segments of President Matthew Harrison's discussion before Congress on Health Care. The top one is about 15 minutes long, the bottom one is 5 minutes long. Members of Calvary brought this up in Bible class on Sunday and here it is for your information. Blessings Pastor Gary Harrison answers House Committee questions Harrison Speaks Before House Committee   Secret Sister Breakfast March 31st 10am parish hall ****** March Calendar ******    Dates to Remember    March 4- Kick-off to Lutheran Schools Week w/ Calvary Ringers @ 8am & Kinder. PIW @ 10:45am March 11- Carol Liston's Retirement Celebration @ 10:45am March 25-28 WASC Visit March 31- Secret Sister Breakfast 10am March 31- LWML Work Party 1pm April 9- Annual Golf Tournament April 27, 28- OWL Planet Wisdom May 3- National Day of Prayer May 5- Wittenberg Tea May 6- Confirmation Sunday 10:45am May 19- CLS Rummage Sale (tentative) June 5- 8th Gr. Graduation 7pm August 6-10- VBS "SKY"   Lenten Services 2/29: Pastor Paul- "Save Me Because of Your Unfailing Love" 3/7: Pastor Mark- "Come Quickly to Help Me" 3/14: Pastor Gary- "God's Enduring Presence for You" 3/21: Pastor Paul- "Against You and For Me" 3/28: Pastor Mark- "Teach Me Your Will, For You Are My God"     Thrivent changes for 2012 All recurring directions set before 2012 will be removed. Members will have the opportunity to renew their recurring direction in 2012. Recurring direction will not be an option in 2013. The recurring direction option depletes the program's budget so quickly that, to accommodate it, Choice Dollars designation rates would need to be reduced dramatically. Retirement Celebration for Carol Liston March 11 at 10:45am A luncheon will be served following the service. Names beginning with A-L bring a dessert, M-Z bring a salad. (these items may be brought to the kitchen the morning of) Cold cuts, cheese, rolls, etc. will be provided by the Fellowship.   Beautification Committee Just a note to let everyone know that the Lord has provided us with a Beautification Committee:  Lisa Ghiselli, Howard Goldhammer, Julie Ramirez & Norma Smith   March Anniversaries  3/11    Paul and Susan Hoffman             45 years 3/16    Rick and Annette English            16 years 3/30    James and Carol Liston                9 years    March Birthdays 3/2        Tristan Mueller   3/4        Joey Ramos 3/7        David Schultz 3/9        Joyce Strom 3/11      Dori DeTurk 3/12      Chrystle Vincent 3/13      Joan Marden                Ryan Regnier 3/16      Diane Flynn               Erica Ghiselli 3/16      Adolph Stafne 3/17      Phillip Caspersen                Grace Ramos 3/19      Anna Beasley  3/20       Kim Heggins 3/21      Stephen Regnier 3/27      Aaron Glock 3/30      Conrad Skjong 3/31      Jane Arndt    ******************************************* Prayers Thanksgiving Frank Mitchell's MRI came back negative, continued prayers for hearing to be restored Peace in the World President Obama and our country's leadership - For our soldiers in Afghanistan: Kyle Hyden, nephew of Skjong's; and for Frank Mitchell II, Thomas Caspersen & Antonio Landaverde who are overseas; for those in the Reserves- Jonathan Ellis For our Staff Fred Brauer; Margie Luehrs; Chrystle Vincent; Traci McClain; Amy Sosa; Christina Grace; Bethany Chhom; Ellen Hackerd; Kristi Morlock; Abby Einspahr; Mike Souza; Doug Henry; Kim Heggins; Blenda Schultz; Michelle Michael; Sherrie Akre; Carol Liston; Cecilia Guerra; Cindy Suppus; Lydiana Sanchez; Holly Contier; Pastor Gary Ministry Guidance For our interim ministry need; Marketing Ideas; Wittenberg Manor   Outreach; Evangelism; Children's, Family and Youth Ministries; Parish Education; School Enrollment Peace and Comfort For the family of Annette English and the passing of her father, Bill Olsen Cancer Patients Pat Brown, infection in incision; Bettie Benz' son-in-law, Stephen Comfort ; Dee Lazaga (Edith Mena's sister), ovarian cancer; Evelyn Asker; Joyce Schwartz, Leanne Mueller's mother; Melody Saldate; Wanda Grimm Physical, Emotional or Spiritual Healing For Amy Sosa's mother, Dianne; David Cannella's upcoming tests in March; Frank Mitchell, hearing loss; Millie Salo; Mabel Stafne; Susan Hoffman; Esther Garguilo; Willine Watson; Marlene Mueller; Angela Garcia; Adolph Stafne; Marie Curtis; Van Deckert; John Ohanesian; Tyler & Dave Flynn Expectant mothers Colleen Martchenke- due August; Stephanie Mendia- due June; Emily Blank- due June; Candice Kofsky- due March; Vicki Blank- due March Personal Needs & Other Concerns Marriage difficulties; elderly parents and those in need of employment     BOARD OF GOVERNANCE MINUTES  January 12, 2012   Present: Barbara Adams, Darlene Goldhammer, Jeff Jensen, Lee Strom, Pastor Mohr   Pastor Gary opened with prayer and devotion based on Rev. 2:18-29, the letter to the church at Thiatira. This church was considered the most corrupt of the seven churches, but it did exhibit gifts of love and faith. Faith reminds us that God is in control and we can find comfort in that fact. God told the church that He was against them because they tolerated the false prophetess Jezebel and the sexual immorality that she promoted. He said He would punish her and those who went along with her teachings. We were also reminded that God gives us a chance to repent and will allow us to return to Him. Every church has struggles, but it is important that we be in tune with the leading of the Holy Spirit. As Christians we need to be wary of sexual and spiritual adultery as individuals and as a church body.   PASTOR'S REPORT Pastor reported that the call process has started, and President Newton has been contacted to let him know we are ready to move ahead. A Call Committee has been established and the congregation was given an opportunity to fill out a questionnaire stating the ages and qualities considered important for our new pastor. Several names of potential candidates were also presented by members. These individuals will be contacted to see if they wish to be on our call list. The majority of the congregation preferred someone between ages 30 and 40 and the secondary choice was for a person between ages 40 and 50. The circuit Forum will be held Saturday at Prince of Peace to discuss the new plan to begin LINC East Bay. The purpose of the plan is to provide support to churches as they reach out to ethnic groups in their particular areas. The CNH District has provided a grant; Prince of Peace will hire an individual to direct the program, which will begin in July, 2012. Pastor also talked about understanding basic cultural differences as a door to reach out to other ethnic groups and the importance of one-on-one relationships. We have a similar problem when reaching out to youth.   UNFINISHED BUSINESS Pastor contacted two retired ministers in our area to see if either was interested in serving as a volunteer chaplain at Wittenberg; both declined. Jeff Jensen contact the Wittenberg Board with BOG's recommendation for a breezeway connecting both buildings without having to go outdoors from one building to the other. We are still in need of a representative from Calvary to attend the CNH District meeting in Burlingame the weekend of April 27-29. We need a volunteer.   NEW BUSINESS Barbara Adams will set up a meeting with Principal Fred Brauer and Brian Pye to discuss our Youth Program/Committee. We discussed the wisdom of renting out the Parish Hall. At present, our members may use the Parish Hall at no cost and it is not available to other groups. BOG voted to continue our current policy. We will investigate how other places handle rental of their facilities. Principal Brauer provided us with detailed information on the next school year; he joined our discussion to clarify the tuition plan for next year and other school related items. Pastor will contact Carol Liston about the possibility of starting an adult choir. We discussed Calvary's need for a Beautification Committee to work on the sanctuary using the memorial gift we have been given. We would like volunteers for this committee. Some years ago we, as a congregation, provided a Christmas offering for our staff; we have not done that for the past two years, but would like to reestablish the practice at Christmas, 2012. We were each given a copy of an article on evangelism-training ministry and asked to read it by our next meeting. We also discussed an article on Mega churches we received previously; our aim was to identify sections that might be included in the Chronicle.   We closed with prayer by all BOG members.   Respectfully submitted, Darlene Goldhammer BOG Secretary   *********************************************************************************************************************** February 9, 2012   Present: Barbara Adams, Jeff Jensen, Darlene Goldhammer, Pastor Mohr   Pastor Gary opened our meeting with prayer and a devotion taken from Rev. 3:7-13, the letter to the church at Philadelphia. This church was known as the church of "brotherly love," was the oldest of the churches, and had been destroyed by an earthquake followed by many aftershocks. God had no condemnation for this church. He said he knew their deeds and that they had little strength, but what He had opened no one could shut and what He had shut no one could open. It may seem like the Bay Area is closed at the moment, but there are many areas open to service and God's word. At times it may seem like we have very little power here at Calvary, but whatever God provides will be enough for what He wants us to accomplish. He created us to do certain things and will certainly make known to us what He wants us to do. When we are confronted with a need, God will use it for His purpose. The church at Philadelphia was told to hang on even though they had little power. The central needs of the ministry of any church are the word and sacraments and the love of God in Christ. Only love can defeat the works of Satan. When a church responds to ministry, it acts in love and kindness and is a wonderful testimony to God. We must not lose the opportunities before us. We are not forgotten by God, but need to continue the works God has placed before us.   PASTOR'S REPORT Pastor approached the Elders about the possibility of a church-wide Bible study similar to the 40-Day Adventure we did several years ago. They agreed that it was a good idea but felt that would be a good idea for the new pastor to consider, aiming for a possible starting date in September. Pastor's final date at Calvary will be on May 6, 2012, Confirmation Sunday. Mr. Brauer, Principal, is teaching the current class and said there are six students who are eligible for confirmation. He will be having a questioning on April 21 at a retreat he is putting together for the confirmands and their parents. The CNH District office has provided information packets for 12 candidates to be reviewed by the Call Committee. They will be distributed to the members of the committee and a meeting will be scheduled to begin the process.   OLD BUSINESS Letters have been sent to three potential BOG candidates and we are waiting for their responses. Last month BOG suggested that the residents of each Wittenberg building needed easy access to the other building without having to go outside. This idea was presented in connection with drawing more residents to the weekly Bible studies and monthly praise services Calvary provides at Wittenberg. Jeff Jensen and Lee Strom assessed the situation and have presented a plan to Dave Mueller, Wittenberg Board member.   Dave will present the idea to each building manager for input. We continued our meeting with discussion on the needs of our youth and how to best provide a program for them. The discussion extended to the subject of how we can get non-members (our surrounding area) interested in what is going on at Calvary. Dave Schultz will be unable to attend the District CNH Convention April 27-29; we will ask him to find a replacement for this year. We are still looking for members to serve on our Beautification Committee. Lisa Ghiselli has volunteered and we would like two or three additional people. NEW BUSINESS We reviewed the New Member Information packet. We adjourned with prayer by all present.   Respectfully submitted Darlene Goldhammer, BOG Secretary   LWML Updates      The CIRCUIT FORUM MEETING was held at Prince of Peace Church, Fremont, CA on 14 January 2012 Sat.-9-11:30am. This meeting was held to discuss a new plan to begin LINC (Lutheran Intercity Network Coalition) in the East Bay. Originally, LINC started in May, 2001 in Houston, TX. The CNH District is involved in this process. It is separately incorporated from Synod and gets FEMA grants & government sources.   Prince of Peace has a grant of $45,000 in their budget to start this project. It is scheduled to begin July, 2012 with a Director to be called by Prince of Peace this summer.      The long range plan (3-5 yr. ) is to develop schools, target specific ages, develop cross-language/cultural mind, expand & enhance the worship experience and become a church that has a climate of serving. It is to minister to others. Basically, "How do we reach the people for Christ?"      This project was prompted because we have so many people in the East Bay who do not have English as their home language-over 130 languages. How do we reach these people for Christ? We don't have enough money to start and train pastors for these groups.   LINC seeks to be the answer.      Examples of various services offered from the existing LINC in Texas: food distribution, disaster case management, ESL classes, single family home repair, computer classes, Christian bookstore, immigration help, clothes closet, medical clinic, emergency food, etc.      How can we help? We need to be passionate about mission - then you will have a passion about LINC. LINC has more to do with outside the community rather than our own school.      Do we want to help support this? The approximate year funding is $110,000 - $150,000 and if so, any contribution would go to Prince of Prince. As more information becomes available, it will be shared with you. **************************   LWML MINUTES FROM THE 28 JANUARY 2012 MEETING       We opened with prayer. The devotion was "IS YOUR TALENT HIDDEN". Matthew 25:14-30. God has gifted each one of us with a particular talent. We need to use it for the benefit of the kingdom of God, so it will bless and encourage others. The offerings were received for Regular offerings, Mites, and Birthday money. We have a working balance of $254.32. I will give further detail of receipts and Disbursements at our next meeting which is Sat., 25 February 2012 at 9:30 am - 11:30 am Conference Room. OLD BUSINESS: Rummage Sale Money - $297.00. What to do with it. Think about it and we will decide next meeting. NEW BUSINESS: Wittenberg Spring Tea - date has been confirmed for 5 May, 2012. Decided on a Cinco de Mayo theme. All confirmed with Susan at Wittenberg. LWML California-Nevada-Hawaii Convention in Rohnert Park - April 20, 21, 22, 2012. PLEASE WRITE IN CALENDAR. We can carpool. Details to follow as I get them. Human Care Projects for Convention decided on: Decided to support 2 of the 4 projects. Redwood Gospel Mission and Oroville Rescue Ministries. General details listed in Sunday overhead. Also you can go to www.cnhlwml.org to The Joyful Servant and full details are given.                 Elaine volunteered to put a plastic container in the Narthex of the church to collect donations and Karen Fogle will contact the School for their support and help with the Oroville Rescue Ministries which have requested socks and Bibles. PWP - Packed With Pride - NEW PROJECT FOR OUR LWML. Barbara Goldhammer in charge of organizing this project. She will be looking for help with this project, so be ready to say yes to her. She will be presenting more details of this project at our next meeting, 25 Feb. 2012.                 We also need to think of a name for this project: a suggestion was - LOVE FOR HEROES. Please think about it and give us your suggestion. Page 2 - Minutes for LWML meeting 28 January 2012   Trip to Bethel Center in San Francisco. Scheduled for 27 Feb. 2012. Will confirm this. More details to follow. Pro-rate fee is $3.00/each member and Quarterly Subscription rate is $5.00 (minimum 10). Will be taken from offerings. Need to figure out how you pick up this magazine. I have suggested that you pick them up from the LWML mailbox in the Administration Building, but that doesn't seem to be happening. Please offer a suggestion how to remedy this. When we had our special offering for Bites for Mites we collected $248.00. The total amount collected by District was $14,737.46. Go on line to get your "Pray For Us Calendar" - praying for our Missionaries abroad. - www.cnhlwml.org  Closed with prayer.   DATES TO REMEMBER: PLEASE MARK YOUR CALENDARS:   25 FEB 2012 - NEXT LWML MEETING 9:30AM - 11:30AM 27 FEB. 2012 - BETHEL CENTER OUTING - SF 31 MARCH 2012 - PROBABLY AFTER 12 NOON - WORK PARTY FOR CONVENTION 20 - 22 APRIL 2012 - LWML CONVENTION,           Rohnert Park 5 MAY 2012 - WITTENBERG SPRING TEA "If you would like to be part of the LWML (Lutheran Womens Missionary League), please contact the Church Office or Barbara Adams, Facilitator of LWML at greendodge@comcast.net or phone 510-278-7045 or any other member of LWML".    *************************************************    The LWML District Convention is going to be held in Rohnert Park, CA on April 20-22, 2012  The theme this year is "Extreme Service" from the words of I Peter 4:10-11.  You are all invited to this event and I will be advising you of further information as soon as I receive it.    Our Calvary LWML has decided to support 2 of the 4 service projects offered:              1. Redwood Gospel Mission - Founded in 1963, the Mission mobilizes the community to minister to the needy (specifically, the homeless, addicted, and incarcerated) so lives are transformed.  The items needed for this project are: PERSONAL/TRAVEL SIZE PROJECTS THAT ARE NEW AND UNOPENED WHITE, ATHLETIC SOCKS FOR A MAN OR WOMAN ARE BEST BAND-AIDS, SOCKS, DEODORANT, SUNSCREEN, DEVOTIONAL, TOOTHBRUSH, TOOTHPASTE, GUM OR MINTS, LIP BALM, BOTTLED WATER, BIRTHDAY CARD WITH AN ENCOURAGING NOTE OR BIBLE PASSAGE AND SIGN YOUR FIRST NAME ONLY.             2.  Oroville Rescue Ministries - Religious non-profit serves the homeless and disadvantaged in Oroville area and its surrounding communities. The items needed: WHITE SOCKS FOR MEN, WOMEN, AND CHILDREN BIBLES - NEW AND OLD ONES, ANY SIZES, INCLUDING CHILDREN'S   Our students at Calvary will be helping with this project also.    The LWML will have a box located in the narthex area labeled for these 2 projects to collect the items.  Please bring your donation no later than 30 March, 2012.    LWML SPRING RALLY will be held this year at Our Savior Lutheran in Fremont, March 10, 2012. Please mark your calendars.  We will car pool to the event. Registration will be at  8:45am and the rally will end by Noon.  If you would like to attend, please let me know. All women welcome from Calvary Lutheran Church.  BRING A FRIEND.  Barbara Adams, Facilitator of LWML 510-278-7045 OR contact the Church Office.  Thank you for your help.  Love in Jesus, Ladies of LWML    *******************************************   Joni Eareckson Tada will be in the San Francisco Bay Area from March 15-18, sharing her heart for Christian Disability Ministry. Joni is the founder and Chief Executive Officer of Joni and Friends, an organization that reaches out to people with disabilities with the love of Jesus.  A diving accident in 1967 left Joni, then 17, a quadriplegic, without the use of her hands. She first became well known because of her art work using a point brush in her mouth, her first best selling autobiography, "Joni", in 1976, and the subsequent movie of the same name in 1979 She is now known internationally for her advocacy for and sharing the Gospel with people with disabilities. Joni will be speaking at the following times and places:   Thursday, March 15, 2012 Crosswinds Church 6444 Sierra Ct., Dublin, CA 94568 - 6:00-7:00pm Saturday, March 17, 2012 Westgate Church 1735 Saratoga Ave San Jose, CA  95129 -  5:00-6:00pm Sunday, March 18, 2012 Abundant Life Christian Fellowship 2440 Leghorn St. Mountain View, CA 94043 - 2:00-3:00pm Sunday,March 18, 2012 Community Presbyterian Church 222 W. El Pintado Rd. Danville, CA  94526 - 7:00-8:00pm   For more information on Joni please go to: http://www.joniandfriends.org/jonis-corner/jonis-bio/     6 Year Calvary Financial Analysis  Jan.1- Jan. 31   Year                                          2012        2011       2010       2009       2008       2007                   General Fund                         18637    19800     20961    16158      14923    19401  Coded Funds                             185           50         400         788           170      2934  Total All Funds                       18822    19850    21361    16946       19593    22335    # Donors Gen Fund                     66          71           78           71             71           71       # Donors Coded Fund                  4            2             9             7                6              7  Ave Offering, G/Fund                282         279        269         228           274         273