The

Salem

 Dove

APRIL 2007

 

FROM THE PASTOR:

Easter is the heart and soul of the life of the Christian.  It takes us by surprise and turns our life upside down for the eternal long run.  It is much bigger than going to heaven someday when we die.  Many of the people who were surprised or upset on the first Easter day believed that there was an afterlife.  If that was all there was to it then they would not have been surprised or even hostile to the Gospel when it was proclaimed by the apostles and new Christians. The women who first heard the news that Jesus was risen from the dead were shocked and full of fear.  The disciples did not believe them.  And the religious leaders were already hostile to the news by the end of the first day. 

For all of us people who think we have life figured out and pretty well in order with God fitting in his place in our life a Lord who is “on the loose” and ready and able to break the basic rule of our world is a fearful thing.  The basic rule of life is that death has the final word over our bodies.  Jesus breaks that rule in the resurrection and shows us that Life has the last word for us in the body.  The risen Lord claims us in our whole life and not just on Sunday or someday after we die in this world. 

Easter is not about the late Jesus who was a good teacher we should try to copy as best we can.  It is about a living Lord who is now shaping all of creation and our life as well into the form of a new creation and life.  To change the metaphor, he is retuning our whole life to be in tune with (Salem/peace is to be in tune with Jesus) him in the grand symphony he is playing.  This symphony has a real Alleluia Chorus in it. 

To begin to get the point we have to know what the Gospel (good news) is.  Too often we are taking for granted that we or those around us know what the Gospel is.  Stop and think a moment and think of what you would say to someone who asked you what the Gospel is.  A Christian should be able to tell what it is as surely as a squirrel knows what a nut is and also the difference between a nut and a stone.  Unfortunately many people go to church or visit a church on a Sunday and don’t even know it if there is no Gospel at all in the whole service.  If there is no Gospel then there is finally no faith—at least not faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. 

 (CON’T. ON PAGE TWO)

Salem  Lutheran  Church

10 McClellan Circle  -  Buffalo, New York 14220

Rev. David F. C. Wurster, Ph. D. – Pastor

Lynn I. Scarpine, Director of Christian Growth       Lois L. Jones, Director of Music  

Ernelle L. Ponivas, Secretary         Stephen Jarmusz Sr., Custodian                Claire Carlson, ‘Dove’ Editor

Rev. Richard E. Blemaster, Pastor Emeritus

e-mail: salemoncircle@yahoo.com   website:  www.salembuffalo.com

= = =      Misson:  SALEM/Peace -  As the Father sent me I send you.      = = =

 Vision:  Preach – Teach – Heal – doing what Jesus does

 

 

 

(CON’T. FROM PAGE ONE)

One place to begin is with the “Gospel in a nutshell:” John 3:16.  “For God so loved he world that he gave his only begotten Son that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.”  St. Paul gives us a good definition of the Gospel in 1 Corinthians 15:  “I declare to you the Gospel which I preached to you….how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures and that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures…”  In Romans 1:16 Paul says:  “I am not ashamed of the Gospel for it is the power of God to salvation to all who believe…”  The Gospel is not just a teaching but it is power, says Paul.  It is the living Christ coming to us in words of forgiveness and new life.

This is a power that does what we humans cannot do.  We cannot create life from the dead; we cannot create life at all.  Only God can create life and raise up those dead in sin.  Perhaps we are so caught in the culture of death as John Paul II called it that we cannot see death or life. When Mrs. Scarpine was teaching about Jesus death in confirmation I asked the class if anyone had seen a human being die.  None of the class had seen this.  The thought was a little scary and somber.  We discussed the fact that 100 years ago many of them would have seen death come.  That brings us back to Easter.  The people who could see Jesus alive were the ones who had seen him die and later knew why he died.  If we cannot see death we cannot see life.  In our world there is death all over on TV and video games that we can just flick off the switch or rewind the machine, but the real thing is hidden away from us.  But we are afraid of it and it grows to be a monster in the dark that we fear to look at.  But in that fear we cannot see life either.  We cannot see the living Christ.  This point comes through strongly in the Easter stories when Jesus appears to his disciples and tells them to look at his hands and side.  We cannot see the living Christ and call him our Lord and our God without seeing those death marks.  We then must ask why those are there and in that moment discover something about ourselves—we are sinners, enemies of Christ, killers who faithlessly kill the Lord of life in many ways.  Then the Gospel really can come through.  Jesus Christ loves his enemies and gives his life for them and then breaks the hold of death and rises up to give new life and forgiveness all over the world.  The late Jesus is not locked up in some old tomb or in some old book.  Jesus is now God “on the loose.”  He is Lord of all of our life and will engage us with the power of forgiveness and life.

This means that in the end we are not really in charge of our life because he is now Lord.  The women and disciples could not just go back to business as usual after some funeral rites and some proper time to grieve.  He was alive and would be breaking up some of the old patterns of their lives and building them up with new patterns of life.  This breaking and building is part of our personal life and also our congregational life.  In this 90^th anniversary year at Salem let us focus on the greatest strength we have as a congregation.  Let us focus on the Gospel—Jesus Christ in person who gives new life to dying and dead people.  Let’s celebrate Easter.  Let’s celebrate Easter with a sense of mission beyond ourselves and on the edge of faith and life.  In John 12 Jesus says, “Unless a seed falls into the ground and dies it remains alone.  But if it falls into the ground and dies it bears much fruit.”  Let’s celebrate Easter with a sense of stewardship that goes way beyond money.  Stewardship for Thomas began with the words:  “My Lord and my God.”  The greatest thing about stewardship is not time or talents or treasure but the word, Lord.  We do not belong to ourselves but to him who is Lord and Redeemer.  He redeems us to make us free to live out our destiny when he calls us by name.  Freedom comes when the Lord himself comes to us and says Peace be to you.  As the Father sent me so I send you. 

                                    Happy Easter and Peace to you all, Pastor Wurster

                                                           

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HOLY WEEK SERVICES

April 1 – 10:30 am – Palm Sunday – Confirmation

April 5^th – 10 am & 7:30 pm Maundy Thursday – Salem

April 6^th – Good Friday

Cross Walk at 12 N – South Buffalo Ecumenical Association (see flyer in this issue)

7:30 pm – Tenebrae Service – Salem

April 8^th – 7 am - Easter Sunday Communion Sunrise Service

8:15 am – Breakfast

9 am – Sunday School & Bible Classes

10:30 am. Easter Sunday Communion Service

                                    SUNDAY MORNING ADULT BIBLE CLASS 2006-2007

Faith, Stories and Prayers

Making peace with head, heart, tongue and both hands

 

Mission: Salem/ Peace – As the Father sent me, I send you.

Vision:  Preach, Teach, Heal/Care – doing what Jesus does

            Lutherans are people with One Lord and 3 books (Bible, Catechism, Hymnal)

Schedule may be revised for special topics and forums

                        Each week we will choose a hymn, prayer and/or psalm to begin the class. Bring a favorite to class and we will use it. When a good and timely topic arises we can suspend this schedule and address a topic.

Date                                                 Bible                                             Catechism

Apr. 1                                      Ezekiel 1,2,3                            Lord’s Prayer Petition 2/3/4

Apr. 8                                      Ezekiel 8,11                             Lord’s Prayer Petition 5/6

Apr. 15                                    Ezekiel 16, 23                          Lord’s Prayer Petition 7 Conclusion

Apr. 22                                    Ezekiel 18, 20                          Baptism I

Apr. 29                                    Ezekiel 33, 34                          Baptism II

May 6                                      Ezekiel 37                                Baptism III

 

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MEMORIALS   AND   GIFTS

 

STEPHEN MINISTRY - - - - - - - - Gifts: Rich & Shirley Landseadel; Mark & Christine Johnson; Gerhard Mueller

 

CURRENT- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -Gifts: Mary Eitler (birthday); Gretchen Putzman (birthday); Paul Sawlidi (birthday); Marilyn Krentz; Paul Swierczynski; Arlene Ball; Allen & Judith Feltz; Mark & Christine Johnson; Violet Kelm; Olga Kingsland; Mark & Monica Thomas; Nancy Thomas

 

MEISSNER FUND- - - - - - - - - - - -In memory of: Norma Slike by: Joseph & Laura Slike

 

                        Gifts: Kim & Russ Alessi; Lois Doll; Shirley Banas; Fred Bartz; Raymond & Lois Yox; Olga Kingsland; Gladys Matson

 

VALPARAISO UNIVERSITY- - - -Gifts: Norrine Nagel

 

CITY MISSION- - - - - - - - - - - - - - Gifts: Roy & Deann Sheppard

 

 

 

90^TH ANNIVERSARY PLANS

 

APRIL   (April mission – Interfaith Hospitality Network)

·         April 8^th – Easter

·         April 15^th – Interfaith Hospitality Network – Charlie Scarpine

·         April 22^nd – Ars Nova Concert

·         April 28^th – Youth Garage Sale

·        April 29^th - Pastor Biegner – History of Lutheranism in Western New York – Bible Class

 

MAY  (May mission – Niagara Lutheran Home)

·         May 6^th - Pastor Biegner – History of Lutheranism in Western New York – Bible Class

·         May 6^th – Dave McMullen, Director of Development, Niagara Lutheran Health Systems

·         May 20^th – Confirmation Classes Reunion with Reception – Rev. Richard Blemaster,

Pastor Emeritus, Preacher

 

JUNE (June mission – Samaritan Pastoral Counseling Center)

·         June 3^rd – Sunday School Celebration – honoring all Sunday School teachers past & present

·         June 10^th – Rev. Chris Brown – Samaritan Pastoral Counseling Center

·         June 10^th – Strawberry Social

 

JULY (July mission – Lutheran Hour)

·         July 22^nd – Rev. Dennis Putzman, son of Salem, Preacher

·         July 22^nd – “Taste of Salem” – Barbershop Chorus

 

AUGUST  (August mission – Lutheran Church Extension Fund)

·         August 12^th – Rev. Lee Stisser, former Pastor, St. Paul’s, Preacher

 

SEPTEMBER (September mission – Concordia, Bronxville/ Camp Pioneer)

·         September 9^th – Rev. Chris Wicher, son of Salem and St. Paul, Preacher

·         September 9^th -  Joint Picnic with Buffalo North Circuit

 

OCTOBER (October mission – Hananiah Mission and Interfaith Hospitality Network)

·         October 3^rd – Roast Beef Dinner - to benefit Hananiah and Interfaith

·         October 7^th & 14^th – Pastor Biegner – History of Lutheranism in Western New York – Bible Class

·         October 20^th – Anniversary Banquet – Michael’s Banquet Center

·         October 21^st – Reunion Service with Coffee Hour

 

NOVEMBER (November mission – Clinical Pastoral Education)

·         November 22^nd – Service of Thanksgiving

·         November 30^th – Pie Concert – Freudig Singers

 

DECEMBER

·         December 9^th – Celebratory Service of Praise with Rev. Dr. John Brunner, Eastern Dist. LCMS President

 

 

 

                Throughout the year, we will be supporting two missions – Hananiah Lutheran Mission and Interfaith Hospitality Network as part of our outreach. We will also be supporting our charities/ missions allocated in our budget.

                Committees are being formed for the above events. Please volunteer by signing up on the forms on the wall outside the Krueger room.  See order form for 90^th Anniversary items.

Claire Carlson, Rose Ann Merkt, Norrine Nagel, Ray Yox, Co Chairpersons

 

 

 

ORDER FORM FOR 90^TH ANNIVERSARY ITEMS

Order form due April 30^th 2007

Item          Price per item  Sizes(circle one) quantity

Adult Tee Shirt	$7	S  M  L  XL
Larger Size Tee Shirt	$9	2X
Larger Size Tee Shirt	$10	3X
Youth Tee Shirt	$7	XS   S (2-4)(6-8) M   L (10-12)(14-16)
Adult Sweatshirt	$14	S  M  L  XL
Larger Size Sweatshirt	$16	2X
Larger Size Sweatshirt	$17	3X
Youth Sweatshirt	$14	XS   S (2-4)(6-8) M   L (10-12)(14-16)

                                        TOTAL COST____________

 

Please return form with your payment

(cash or check made payable to Salem Lutheran Church)

to Claire Carlson or Fred Bartz Jr.

Name: ___________________Phone Number:__________

 

CASH AND CARRY Items will be available before and after services.

$3 - COFFEE MUGS     $5 - TOTE BAGS

 

 

DID YOU KNOW……………….

            In honor of Salem’s 90^th Anniversary, it was suggested to “interview” some of our members to recall their memories of our church’s history. Our next “interviewee” is Shirley Mueller Landseadel. Shirley’s parents were Mildred and Gerhard Mueller. Shirley is one of twelve siblings. Shirley and all her siblings were baptized and confirmed at Salem.

            She remembered attending Sunday School and Vacation Bible School, fondly recalling the “bug juice” that was always served. Shirley attended religious instruction on Tuesday afternoons.  All children were released early from school to attend. She loved attending with groups from Salem, events at Camp Pioneer. Confirmation classes were held on Saturday mornings. She is celebrating the 50^th anniversary of her confirmation this year. Shirley recalled being extremely nervous about Lesson Sunday, the week before being confirmed.

            Shirley’s grandmother, Freida Mueller was very active at Salem including quilting with Mrs. Bindig and Mrs. Lubich and others during the 50’s and 60’s. Shirley is now a member of our quilting group at Salem, the Piecemakers. Shirley and her family lived together with her grandmother. Shirley recalled Pastor Krueger visited her grandmother at home when she was ill and sharing German prayers.

            In 1964, Shirley was married to Rich Landseadel by Pastor Blemaster. Due to Rich’s job, they lived in Auburn, New York for a number of years. They moved back to South Buffalo. Shirley and Rich have three daughters, Julie Schmidt, Debbie Lillie and Amy Scharf. All three daughters were confirmed and married at Salem. All are very involved at the churches where they attend. Shirley and Rich have seven grandchildren. Granddaughter Aubrey Schmidt even plays in the “Baby Bells” at Faith in Elma.

            Shirley has served as one of the Financial Secretaries for many years while Rich has been serving on Church Council “forever.”  Rich is the leader of Stephen Ministries at Salem.

            Shirley enjoys spending time with her grandchildren and planning family reunions. A large Mueller family reunion is being planned this summer with over 150 attending including family from Germany.

            Shirley feels the members at Salem are an extension of family making it a very caring church

            We would like to thank Shirley for her special observations on the history of Salem.

                                    Claire Carlson

The Power of Prayer in a Bleeding World, Christian Growth Thoughts:

 

During my Lenten journey this year, I’ve been doing a seven week self-guided study on prayer and repentance, using the book Seven Weeks for the Soul  by Gerard W. Hughes, who is a noted scholar and theologian, specializing in ecumenical spirituality.  I’ve also been discussing prayer with colleagues and learning more about God and myself in the process.  God chose this particular journey for me, as He is aware that I’ve been frustrated of late, with my prayer-ability.  Yes, I have been distracting myself during my daily prayer time and feeling too tired to connect with God in deep prayer.  Just being aware that this was going on within me, made me intensely uncomfortable and supremely keen on getting back on track in my daily conversations with God.  Abba addressed my concern and set me on a course of study with the above mentioned book.

Here’s what I’ve learned:

1)   To pre-dispose myself to prayer by reading Luther’s small catechism daily

2)   To let the distractions enter into my prayer; the more I resist being distracted, the more distracted I become

3)   When I let my distractions into my prayer time…I learn something powerful from these distractions, they become my prayer!

4)   As I become more relaxed into my prayer time with God, time loses its importance and all the “should-of’s” of my life gain clarity and perspective.

5)   I enter into deeper and more meaningful and present time with God.

If you’d like to explore more about prayer and praying with me, I’ll be conducting a prayer workshop in May, date and time TBA, please watch the Dove and our weekly bulletin for more info.

In His Presence, Lynn Scarpine, DCG

SPECIAL NOTE:  THE 5 WEEK COURSE ON ‘WALKING THROUGH THE BIBLE: THE 5 BOOKS OF MOSES’ WILL BE OFFERED ON TUESDAY AFTERNOONS BEGINNING APRIL 10^TH @ 1 P.M.  PLEASE JOIN US!  SEE LYNN FOR MORE DETAILS.

SALEM LUTHERAN YOUTH

 

 

SLY SEZ…..

The youth who participated in the "30 Hour Famin-a-Thon" had fun, learned a few things and represented Salem well.  Two of our confirmands, Karen and Beth Thomas, and Laura Thomas joined confirmand students from other Lutheran churches at Harvest House, March 2-3. Over 30 young people participated in all.  They collected donations to help feed those in need, both in Africa and in the United States.  With personal collection efforts, and generous contributions from the Salem congregation and Mount Mercy Academy students, over $550.00 was raised for this cause. 

Among the activities the "tribes" participated in was to write their own prayer.  The group of five youths I worked with took a different approach.  They collectively wrote a poem.  Their selected theme was "feeding the people with fish and loaves of bread".  The poem created read as:                      

Break this bread so you can feed

The hungry masses and those in need.

As a little food can go a long way,

So they can survive and live another day!

Amen.                                         Remember what you have to eat each and every day as you rejoice in the Easter season.

Our big event for April is the Youth-sponsored "Indoor Garage Sale" scheduled for Saturday, April 28th from 9:00-1:00.  Tables are available for rent for $10.00.  In addition, we are accepting donations of gently used items for a youth table.  As we did last year, there will be a baked goods table, with juice and coffee for our sellers and customers.  We are asking each family of the youth to donate a baked good item to sell that morning.  If anyone else would care to donate to this table, your contribution would be greatly appreciated.  Look for advertising and watch the Bulletin for more information or to reserve a table. (See flyer in this issue.)

With spring flowers and Easter blooms in the air, there are plans for the youth to visit the Botanical Gardens.  A date has not yet been set, but we are looking to schedule for a Sunday afternoon, after church.

We continue to thank everyone who supports the candy bar sales.  Fundraisers like this and the garage sale provide an opportunity for the youth to collect funds in order to more easily participate in a youth conference in the future. (con’t. next column)

 

(con’t from previous column)

The next youth meeting is scheduled for Sunday, April 15th, after service in the lower social room.  Final planning for the garage sale and spring activities will be discussed.  Also, start thinking about interest in having a Fall Dance.

The Youth are coordinating a donation drive for the Disaster Shelter.  Please bring any item (see list in this issue) on Easter Sunday.  Please help us.

REMEMBER… SLY SEZ… we can't have a youth group without the youth!

            Paul Thomas, Salem Lutheran Youth Leader

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WHAT’S NEW AT SALEM?

90 DAYS OLD

 

(We having been celebrating our 90^th anniversary this year but it was suggested to include the new “things” that are here at Salem in recent months. The Men’s Group and the Disaster Shelter are two of them.)

 

MEN’S GROUP 

Our next breakfast meeting is April 7^th at 8:30 a.m. at Salem. All men are encouraged to attend. We will be planning the lay service that we are doing April 29^th.                                          Ken Kushka

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SALEM DISASTER SHELTER

Donations are coming in slowly. Thank you to all who have already donated items. This shelter will be available to everyone, so we are asking everyone to donate something from our wish list. There is a box in the upper hall for donations. A generator has been purchased.      

Items needed:

Bottled water                          Powdered milk

Coffee (regular & decaf), tea bags, Kool aid, hot chocolate

Spaghetti & spaghetti sauce  Rice

Canned fruits & vegetables    Soup

Instant oatmeal                        Canned tuna & chicken

Fruit roll ups & fruit snacks  Peanut butter

Sugar, salt                             Batteries (any size)

Candles (no votives or tapers)          Flashlights

Blankets                     Bandaids

Tylenol                                Tums or Rolaids

Neosporin                             Bleach

Ziploc Bags                            Trash bags

          The youth group is coordinating a donation drive for the shelter. Please bring any items on Easter Sunday.

          Thank you for your help. Ken Kushka

LENT 2007

 

Salem will participate with the Lutheran churches in the North Buffalo Circuit this year. Salem is new to this group so this is a way to get to know fellow Lutherans in the area. The theme of the Services will be Christ on Trial.

 

May 17 – Ascension Service at Pilgrim, Kenmore – 6 pm – soup/sandwich – 7:30 worship

 

Offerings – all loose offering during this series will go to Hananiah Lutheran Church, a mission.

                                                Pastor Wurster

 

mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm

 

EASTER BREAKFAST

 

 

 

SUNDAY, APRIL 8, 2007

 

8:15 AM TO 9:00 AM IN THE SOCIAL ROOM

 

$5.00 PER ADULT &

$2.00 PER CHILD (5-12)

 

PROCEEDS TO BENEFIT THE

PROPERTY MAINTENANCE FUND

 

MENU:  SAUSAGE, EGGS,

SWEET ROLLS, ORANGE

JUICE, TEA, COFFEE AND

MILK

TICKET SELLERS:FRED BARTZ

AND MARK THOMAS

 

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THRIVENT IS MATCHING FUNDS UP TO $400 ON EASTER SUNDAY. PLEASE TURN IN YOUR BLUE MAINTENANCE FUNDS ENVELOPES ON THAT DAY SO WE CAN DOUBLE OUR FUNDS. THANK YOU.

Fred Bartz

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BIBLE STUDY

A Bible Study is at 1 pm on Tuesdays

led by Sally McAlpine. All are welcome.

 

A Bible Study led by Ruth Carr is on

Thursdays at 9:30 am. All are welcome.

ST. PAUL CONFIRMATION

PHOTOS NEEDED

 

            I am looking for confirmation photos from St. Paul’s Lutheran church for the years between 1987 and 2001. I would prefer 8” x 10” or the largest size I can borrow. I’m looking for photos of the whole confirmation group including the Pastor. All photos will be returned after I scan them for a CD album I have been creating. Included should be the names and position they stand in from left to right and the year. If you have scanned photos you can email them to me at cbelect@verizon.net as an attachment in JPG or BMP format.

            Thank you, Chuck Yung

 

 

 

ANNIVERSARY MEMORABILIA NEEDED

 

            As part of our 90^th anniversary celebration, we are asking all our members to assist us in developing a large display of Salem and St. Paul memorabilia. If you have any photos, anniversary brochures, group pictures or any such items we would appreciate it if you would bring them to church and give them to Ruth Carr or Elinor Jentsch. We will display everything at some time in the fall of 2007.

            Many of us have large quantities of return labels and we suggest that you identify your contributions so that we can return everything to the rightful owner.

                                    Ray Yox

 

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OUR SYMPATHIES to the family of former member Elaine Grotke who was called home to glory on March 18^th.

 

 

NEW ORLEANS EXPERIENCE

 

            February 17, 2007     7:00A.M.  13 degrees in Buffalo.  45 people gathered for prayer at St. Luke’s Lutheran church before we got into five vans headed to New Orleans.  Nine churches from the Buffalo area and one from Michigan were represented in the group.  The first night we stayed at Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church in Crossville, Tennessee, where all 45 of us slept in the fellowship hall on Red Cross cots.

            We arrived in New Orleans late Sunday and found Camp Restore, a Lutheran school badly damaged by Hurricane Katrina.  Lutheran World Relief has restored this school as a work base, so volunteers have a place to stay while they’re working.  We slept in bunk beds in classrooms converted to dormitories—men and women in separate rooms.  Tyson Foods and the Orphan grain Train from Nebraska have provided a kitchen, so all volunteers get at least two hot meals each day.

            Although I didn’t have the opportunity to go out and build every day, I heard a lot of stories that people shared, and saw a lot of the devastation.  Imagine driving 35-45 miles for groceries, and then waiting in line for 30 minutes to check out.  Or living in a FEMA trailer since the Hurricane while you wait for your house to be assessed for damages.  Some owners burned their own severely damaged homes, because fire insurance paid more than flood insurance.

            I did have the chance to visit the lower ninth ward where the levee broke and 1600 people died.  It was eerie to walk through the area and see open gates that led nowhere, and houses tipped so the roof met the ground.  I compared it to a graveyard, and the empty cement slabs where houses once stood are the tombstones.  Most of the remaining houses have been gutted and the lumber and other personal belongings are piled, sometimes as much as four feet high, along the street.

            Why do people want to rebuild and return to a place that could flood again?  As one elderly woman said, “My father built this house.  I’ve lived in it all my life.  I have no place else to go.”  I did see signs in front yards that read, “Don’t destroy.  We’ll be back!”

            There are signs of hope though.  One day a group of us cleaned Prince of Peace Lutheran church, next to Camp Restore, so that the Ash Wednesday service could be in the sanctuary.  Services had been

(con’t. next column)

(con’t. from previous column)

held in the school since Katrina, and Ash Wednesday was the first time a service was held in the church building since the Hurricane hit.  I saw magnolia trees and daffodils blooming next to houses gutted out to the studs, and I heard birds singing in this devastated area.

            Each congregation that was represented was asked to support the trip.  Salem’s church council voted to give $200 and I publicly thank the council for their support.  I also thank the LWML for their monetary gift and prayers.  The week in New Orleans was an adventure!  There is another trip planned for April 2008 and I hope to be part of that also.  Again, I thank everyone for your concern, support and prayers.

                        Ruth Wurster

 

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CO-ED SOFTBALL TEAM

Here at Salem we are trying to organize a co-ed softball team. Those who are interested, please contact Jim Carr at 896-1991 or Matt Hoffmann at 380-1350.

 

 

 

THANKS to everyone for the cards and prayers received for us for our recent illnesses. We are truly blessed for our “church family.”

                Bill & Leola Colvin

 

THE BALANCE IN CURRENT AS OF   February 28, 2007 IS A DEFICIT OF $7,614.31.

            Nancy Thomas, Treasurer

 

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MEETINGS

 

 

 

 

 

            If you would like to “Serve the Lord with Gladness” (Psalm 100:2), won’t you please join us at our April 26^th meeting when we continue to serve the Lord by:

1. supporting Bible study;
2. collecting and distributing surplus Bibles;
3. supplying our library with Christian books;
4. sending love/care packages to our college students and service people;
5. collecting labels and box tops for Bethesda for equipment and other school needs;
6. preparing Christmas booklets from discarded Christmas cards for distribution to nursing homes by the LSS:
7. preparing dinners for Salem’s new mothers; and
8. collecting cancelled stamps for missions.

 

            Our LWML annual mini retreat at the Marriott in Williamsville on March 2^nd and 3^rd was inspirational, full of Christian fellowship and fun for all.         Gladys Matson, Secretary

 

            Upcoming: Saturday, May 5^th – Buffalo Zone Spring Workshop – St. Paul’s, Batavia – 9:30 am

MMV – Mission, Ministry, Vision – Claire Carlson, Presenter

            +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

WOMEN’S GUILD

 

            Our next meeting is Tuesday, April 10^th at 12 noon. Please bring your lunch and join us.

            Please save items for our Penny Sale at our annual Salad Bar Luncheon which will be June 13^th.

                                    Shirley Banas, Vice President

 

GOLDEN AGERS

            Our meeting was held March 1 with 36 members present. The program for the day was presented by Mr. Russell Pavlak, president of the Central Terminal Restoration Corporation. He gave a fascinating talk on what is being done at the terminal and on the future plans for this important building in the history of Buffalo.

            Our meetings are the first Thursday of the month.           Please bring your lunch and join us. The next meeting is April 5^th.

            Trips for the coming year include: May 16 day trip to the Greg Frewin Theater for Las Vegas in Niagara Falls. $75 for a sit down lunch, matinee show and a stop at the Fallsview Casino. July 19 annual picnic will take place at the Commissioner’s Cabin in Chestnut Ridge Park. $13 for lunch and dinner. September 15-19 will be a trip to Frankenmuth/ Mackinac Island at a cost of $595. Contact Pat or Dick Bundt at 876-7717 if you want to book any of these trips.

                        Gretchen Putzman, Secretary

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THANK YOU to Sandy Mulvaney for coordinating the acolytes each and every Sunday.

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BOY’S BASKETBALL TEAMS

            Both our A and B teams finished in 3^rd place in their respective divisions. The teams made to the semi final games but unfortunately it was in a losing effort. But both teams grew so much in leadership and teamwork skills and more importantly in their faiths. Thank you to the parents and congregational members for their support throughout the years.

            Matt Hoffmann was awarded the Earl Brady memorial trophy for sportsmanship. Only four of one hundred players received this honor.  Earl Brady gave so much to the Basketball league throughout the years. Earl Brady was the father of Donna Brady. Donna is Matt’s godmother. The trophy was presented to Matt by Coach Jim Krol during Sunday worship.

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WANTED

           Musicians of all ages wanted to augment the worship service. Call 896-1991 or leave a note with Jim Carr giving your name and instrument. Practices would be Saturday mornings.                              Jim Carr

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PEOPLE HAVE BEEN ASKING ABOUT THE CHRISTCARE SERIES

 

            As you may have heard, Salem has recently enrolled in the ChristCare Series by Stephen Ministries. The ChristCare Series is a complete system for leading and organizing small group ministry in our congregation. Small groups – called ChristCare Groups – are warm welcoming places where people learn to know and care for one another. ChristCare Groups are

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a great place to involve new people in our community of believers. Long-range plans for our congregation include full participation in the ChristCare Series. Watch for updates in the Dove about our progress and plans.

            How big is small? As part of a ChristCare Group, you will be one of 5 to 12 people who meet regularly to develop close personal bonds with one another and with Jesus Christ. ChristCare Group can make a big church seem small and can help a small church maintain that family feeling as it grows.

            Roy Sheppard and James Krol will be attending the ChristCare Series Equipper’s Training Course to learn about ChristCare Group Ministry. Please remember them in your prayers as they prepare for the challenges of this ministry.

            ChristCare Group Ministry will need your help to become established, grow and thrive in our congregation. Keep up to date on this program over the coming months and consider how you might become involved – as a ChristCare Group member. And regardless of your other involvement, please ask God to guide, bless, inspire and control our ChristCare Group Ministry so that all we do will bring glory to Jesus.

Yours in Christ, Roy Sheppard and James Krol

            On Sunday, March 18^th service, the following certificate was presented to  Church Council Vice President George Merkt for Salem Congregation:

            This is to certify that Salem Lutheran Church is officially enrolled in the ChristCare Series. It is with great joy that Stephen Ministries welcomes your congregation as a partner in this ministry on this day, January 17, 2007. May the Holy Spirit empower your congregation in equipping, organizing and administering the ChristCare Series small group ministry system

Rev. Kenneth Haugk, Executive Director, Stephen Ministries.

            The ChristCare Banner was also officially commissioned that Sunday.

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ST. JOHN’S PRESCHOOL

 

3152 Clinton St. West Seneca

Now accepting registration for the 3 and 4 year old Fall 2007 School Year

Call 668-3584

       

 

AUCTION – A HUGE SUCCESS

 

            Thank you to the over 100 who attended. The full house contributed to the fun, fellowship and the success of the evening.

            We appreciated those who donated the over 100 items auctioned. Thank you to the following area businesses who also donated: Dunkin’ Donuts, W. Seneca; General Mills; Buffalo Sabres; TGI Fridays, McKinley Mall; Subway, McKinley Mall; Jacobi’s, Abbott Rd.; Red Lobster, McKinley Mall; Catherine Nagel, Attorney at Law, Nuchereno & Nagel; Starbucks, Walden Ave., Dove Restaurant; Wegman’s, W. Seneca; Salvatore’s; Artcraft Trains; Whistle Stop; Starbucks, Transit Rd.; Paper Factory,

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Southgate Plaza; Eckerd’s, Lake Ave.; Friendly’s, Blasdell; Wayside Restaurant; ABC Rentals; Olive Garden; Great Harvest; BJs Optical; Jubilee; Troyer Farms, LT’s Subs, Merle Norman make up; Applebees; Build a Bear; Southtowns Pizza; DeMarco’s Pizza; Danny’s South; Boston Market; Chicken & Pizza Works; Victoria Square; Beef & Ale, Greetings Cards; Linens & Things; Ilio’s and Christies.

            The high bid of $60 was a tie for these two items: Will Preparation by Catherine Nagel and Corian Cutting Board donated by Dave Carlson.

            A BIG thank you to our auctioneers Roy Sheppard and Ken Kushka.  There was a Quickie Board, Bargain Basement and even a Children’s Auction. Special thanks to the women who took over the responsibility of the kitchen: Ruth Carr, Vi Kelm and Ethel Berkhoudt and many more who assisted them. We thank the following who helped in any way:  Sharon Croston, Maureen & Bill Wilke, Shirley Banas, Elinor Jentsch, Jean Poniwas; Christine & Mark Johnson, Dorothy Wiese, Sallie Langner, Jim & Judy Carr, Ken & Joanne Kushka and anyone that was inadvertently omitted. The men’s group did a great job cleaning up.         

            The auction proceeds were: $2,141.50. These proceeds will be donated to Hananiah Mission and Interfaith Hospitality Network. Thrivent Financial for Lutherans will be matching a portion of the proceeds. Since Hananiah is a LCMS congregation, they cannot receive matching funds from another congregation.

            A special thank you to the committee of Roy and Deann Sheppard and Rich and Shirley Landseadel and Sandy Mulvaney with Norrine Nagel, co chairman of the 90^th Anniversary committee who assisted the auction committee from beginning to end.

 

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Lutheran Service Society Women’s Auxillary Meeting

 

Tuesday, April 3^rd

11 am meeting with lunch to follow

 

Old Country Buffet, 3048 Sheridan Dr., Amherst

Fern Suckow, Corresponding Secretary

 

 

CONFIRMATION

 

            During the March 25^th worship service, the confirmation class presented their essays and special projects.  A special thank you to Deann Sheppard for coordinating the mentor program and to the mentors: Ernelle Ponivas, Shirley Banas, Sandy Mulvaney, Lynn Scarpine, Dave Carlson and Sue Landwehr.

            Their projects were as follows: Karen & Beth Thomas – stepping stones; Ashley Rodriguez – poem, Erick Scott – Pass the Peace poster and Ryan Shanahan – sang a wonderful version of “Let There Peace on Earth.”

            Published below and the next page are the confirmation essays as presented. Three are published in this issue with the remainder in the May issue.

 

What I Believe In  by Ryan Shanahan

            My beliefs pertain to everything I have been taught and learned throughout my years of coming to Salem Lutheran Church. I believe in the one and only God who has given me everything I need each day. He gives me unconditional love and knows all of my needs. I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord, who came and suffered to save us, God’s children from the perils of sin. The presence of the Holy Spirit has guided me into the family of the Christian Church and the communion of saints. God’s love for me has made me confident for my eternal life.

            Adam and Eve disobeyed God because they were human. They allowed temptation to distract them from God’s plan. Moses received the Ten Commandments as a plan for life and daily living. We don’t always follow the Laws of God because we too, are human and imperfect. But God promised Jesus would come to comfort his people even when they were in misery of their sins. We do not deserve the mercy of God, as well as the salvation of Christ.

We as people can never live up to deserving these mighty gifts. All we can do is believe, pray and try to follow Jesus’ example. We can read in the book of Isaiah chapter 40, verse 31 “Those who hope in the Lord, will renew their strength.”

            God speaks to us in many different ways. He comes to us in dreams, as the voice of our conscience and speaks through other people. God talks to us whether we like it or not, we just have to be ready and willing to listen to him.

            I do not know what is in store for me or my plan in this world. But when it comes time that God is

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ready to show me his plan in this world for me, I will be ready to listen. By always putting him first I have faith that I will be doing what he expects of me.

            I want to be confirmed because I want to take on the responsibilities and privileges of becoming an adult member of the church. I am taking this responsibility that was originally given to my parents and godparents, when I was baptized and making it my own. Being part of this Christian family strengthens my faith. I plan to continue fellowship in the church and in the Salem Choir.

 

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WHAT I BELIEVE ABOUT GOD

by Ashley Rodriguez

What I Believe About God:

            I believe in God the Father Almighty, Maker of Heaven and earth and in Jesus Christ His only Son our Lord. I believe that without Him I am nothing and I have nothing. God protects me for all danger and evil. He has sent His only Son to die for me and if I am truly sorry for what I have done wrong. God who is faithful and just will forgive me. Romans 10:9-10 says; “If you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe with your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes unto righteousness and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.”

            Even since the beginning of time all God ever wanted was to share his joy; to see the beauty of all His creations. To know that his love is free; and to marvel in his glory – we should thank Him everyday for the blessings we have received. We truly are “poor miserable sinners,” always turning away from God, especially when things are going well in our life. But when those trials come along, we some how have “speed dial” to heaven – looking for the one person who will never turn his back on me. It’s what He always wanted, an intimate, pure, deep loving relationship – that one on one time with God.

            It’s free will; God will never force anyone to come to Him; our choice! Just because his choice was to die on the cross for our sins, love us conditionally, never leave us or forsake us he waits patiently. Seeking that true love – His love which is so powerful. He yearns for a deeper commitment from us - to serve Him, glorify Him and love Him with all of our heart.

People:

            I know that God created man from the dust on

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the ground and breathed into it the breath of life. I know that God created women from a single rib of man. I believe that God called to Moses to give him the Ten Commandments on two stone tablets to teach us to live a godly life.

How God Speaks to People:

            I believe that God speaks to everyone whether it’s through prayer, the Bible or even when they’re driving in their car but it is their choice to listen.

God’s Will for Me in the World:

            I believe that God has special plan for me for Jeremiah 29:11 says “For I know the plans I have chosen for you” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you – plans to give hope and a future.” I truly know that if I stay on the path of righteousness and not the plan of destruction, my life will always be full of his presence.

Why I want to be confirmed:

            I want to be confirmed so I can receive the body and blood of Christ and have a more mature relationship with God. After being confirmed I feel I will have a deeper walk with the Lord.

 

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What I Believe By: Beth Thomas

My faith is in the Holy Trinity.  That is God the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit.  I believe in God the Father Almighty maker of heaven and earth. He created everything the sky, animals, the oceans, the desert and people.  I am reminded of His awesome power every time I watch a sunset or see the ocean.   It makes me wonder why people would even question whether God exists.  Jesus, the Son saved us from our sins He came from heaven to be crucified and rose again to show us all that He truly was the Son of God.  The Holy Spirit guided the apostles on continuing what Jesus had started and even today we carry out His works in our Church. 

Because Adam and Eve sinned we are all born with sin and we are imperfect.  He gave us 10 commandments and being the imperfect humans that we are we break them all the time.  For example, I don’t exactly always do what my parents tell me to do.  I know I should listen to them but often sometimes make the wrong choices.  But like God, I know my parents love me and will forgive me if I ask for forgiveness.  God has plans set out for us – you and me; we need to pay attention to His plan.

God speaks to people in many different ways.    Some conversations happen through prayers like

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Mary’s cousin having a baby – John the Baptist.  Ignoring God’s plan for us doesn’t work - remember Jonah and the whale.  Jonah almost got eaten because He didn’t tell the people in the city.   God doesn’t always speak to someone kneeling in prayer sometimes God speaks through symbols like Moses and the burning bush.  He talks to us on earth mostly through the Bible. God also talks to people through nature by showing all the amazing things He created.

God’s will for me on earth is to teach other humans about His word and all he does for us. He wants us to do this so we can open other eyes that need opening. He wants us to express our feelings about God. What I mean about expressing your feelings about God is like Martin Luther he believed that what the church was doing was wrong and he stood up for what he believed and in the end created the Lutheran church.

My parents brought me to Salem to be baptized as a believer in Jesus.  Now it is my turn to come to Salem to be confirmed because I would like to be part of the church as a full member no longer just a kid who goes to Sunday School.  I appreciate the time and effort put into teaching me what I need to know. I would especially like to thank my mentor Mrs. Shirley Banas.  She is helping me through confirmation and I am glad we have another year to go together.

 

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WINE TASTING AND SILENT ART AUCTION

Sunday, April 22^nd 2007

3:30-6:30 pm

$15 admission includes

wines, cheeses, theme baskets, hors d’oeuvres

 patron event: 3-4 pm

$30 per person includes above

 

At Greenfield’s new Chapel/Auditorium

5949 Broadway. Lancaster

Benefit for Lutheran Campus Ministries

Questions, call Jeff at 688-4064

 

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ROAST BEEF DINNER

 

St. John’s Lutheran Church

3512 Clinton St., W. Seneca

Wed. April 25^th – 4 pm.

Adults: $8.50; Children $5; under 3 free

Take outs available

You're  Invited !!!

 

 

SELL  or  BUY  !!!

 

SATURDAY, APRIL 28th

 

9:00 A.M.  -  1:00 P.M.

 

SALEM  LUTHERAN CHURCH

 

10 McCLELLAN CIRCLE, Buffalo

(on McKinley Parkway)

 

Sponsored by the Salem Lutheran Youth Group

 

RENT  a  TABLE  -  Only  $10.00

 

Contact the Church @ 824-2787

for  more  information  or

to  rent  a  table

 

 

Are you ready to make a splash with Jesus?

then come “Take the Plunge”

at Salem’s Vacation Bible School for 2007!

 

We are heading for the ride of our lives as we twist and turn our way through a water park adventure! 

Get ready to make a splash as we soak up thrilling Bible stories where God uses the common element of water to teach to very uncommon lessons.

 

Watch for meeting notices in the bulletin and start thinking about how you might Take the Plunge yourself by helping out.

 

We will need help with advertising, decorating, set-up, kitchen, crafts and more… so even if you can’t be there on the actual day – you might be able to help in another way.    

 

You will find the coolest place to be is in the Son!

 

 

VISION OF SALEM

 

It has been three months since we began praying our 90th Anniversary Collect - Prayer for Vision. Our wish is that God would direct our vision and actions as Salem prepares for the next decade. What would He have us do? In which "fishing grounds" would He have us put down our nets? 

 

Jot down your suggestions to share with the Anniversary Committee and the Church Council. Your thoughts and ideas are important to all of us.

 

Your suggestions may be placed in the "Vision of Salem" box in the upper parish hall.

 

Your signature is optional.

 

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W O R S H I P

The Worship Committee has developed a page for the DOVE that will communicate to the congregation the themes, liturgies, sermon texts and titles and other

points of worship.  (LW = Lutheran Worship     TLH = The Lutheran Hymnal               WOV = With One Voice         SH = Supplemental Hymnal)

Hymns and liturgy are being chosen by Pastor, the Music Director, and the Worship Committee.  Comments are invited for future growth.

	LITURGY	1st  Hymn	Sermon Hymn	Communion Hymns	Last Hymn	Text & Title
April 1 -  Lent 6 Palm Sunday/ Confirmation (purple)	LW 158 Communion		LW 172 – “I Bind Unto Myself   Today”	LW 105 –“Ride On, Ride On;” LW 109 – “Jesus, I Will Ponder Now;” LW 106 – “Hosanna, Loud Hosanna”	LW 102 – “All Glory, Laud and Honor”	Luke 22:1 ff. – “Confession in Power”
April 5 Maundy Thursday – 7:30 p.m. (white)	Maundy Thursday Liturgy			LW 359 – “Just As I Am;” LW 356 – “Drawn to the Cross;” LW 347 – “Today Your Mercy Calls Us”
April 6 Good Friday  – 7:30 p.m. (black)	Tenebrae				LW 93 – “Savior When in Dust to You”
April 8 Easter 7 a.m. and 10:30am. (white)	LW 158 Communion	LW 127 –“Jesus Christ is Risen Today”	LW 137 – “Christ the Lord Is Risen Today; Alleluia”	LW 138 – “He’s Risen;” SH 75 –“Because He Lives;” SH 78 – “Christ is Alive;” SH 14 – “I am Crucified with Christ”	LW 264 –“I Know My Redeemer Lives”	Luke 24:1 ff. – “Waking Up Is Hard to Do”
April 15 – 2nd Sunday of Easter (white)	LW 158 Communion	LW 125 –“Hail Thee, Festival Day;” v. 1,2,5,6	LW 130 – “O Sons and Daughters of the King”	LW 133 – “The Day of Resurrection;” SH 119 – “The Old Rugged Cross;” SH 116 –“Sweet Hour of Prayer”	LW 126 –“At The Lamb’s High Feast” v. 1,2,6,7,8	John 20:19-31 – “People of Salem”
April 22 – 3rd Sunday of Easter (white)	LW 158 Word	LW 134 – “With High Delight Let Us Unite”	LW 126 – “At the Lamb’s High Feast We Sing”		LW 138 –“He’s Risen”	John 21:1-10 – “Breakfast Meeting”
April 29 – 4th Sunday of Easter (white)	Healing Service	LW 417 – “The Lord’s My Shepherd, Leading Me”	LW 412 – “The King of Love My Shepherd Is”	LW 416 –“The Lord is My Shepherd;” SH 114 – “Softly & Tenderly:” SH 112 – “Savior Like a Shepherd”	LW 139 – “Jesus Lives”	John 10:22-30 – “The Shepherd’s Deep Voice”