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(From September 4, 2007 to December 31, 2007)
December 30, 2007
Friends,
During worship this morning, several prayer concerns were mentioned. We
share these here, asking you to hold these people and situations up to
the Lord in your prayers, asking his blessings, guidance, and
intervention for each named and those whose names remain unspoken with
needs equally as great.
- Betty Schmidt as she recovers from gall bladder surgery
- Bentley Bihrer as he recovers from shoulder surgery and begins
physical therapy on Monday
- George Blass who is currently hospitalized with pneumonia and is
expected to return home on Monday
- Ruth Steele who is recovering at Methodist Manor from her broken
shoulder
- All those who are traveling for holiday gatherings
- Doris Christie's family upon her death and funeral yesterday (she
was a resident at Wel-Life)
- The Haley family upon the one year anniversary of Duane's death on
Saturday
- Those who have colds and assorted maladies that seem to go with the
season
We raise our prayers for healing, support, comfort and strength to God
our father who send his son, the baby Jesus, humbly into the world so that
we might know lavish, extravagant love.
December 30, 2007 bulletin
My family and I wish to thank all of you for your gifts, prayers and many acts of kindness since I have come to your community. It is a particular joy to be celebrating this holy season among and with you. Thank you and may God richly bless you.
……Pastor DeeAnn
May this special season be a time of joy and blessings, and may the coming year be the best you’ve ever known.
Thank you so much for the prayer shawl I received on Christmas Eve. I will treasure it always. I’m such a small part of this lively ministry Dawn introduced. In all things let’s give God the glory! Blessings!
….Ann Trimble-Ray
To the Early UMC…
Thank you very much for the prayer shawl. It is so soft and cuddly warm. I should have sent this sooner, but was waiting for my thumb to heal so you could read my writing. Thanks again.
…Betty Mentzer
To the Early UMC…
Thank you for the lovely prayer shawl. The story of how blessings are bestowed on it by the whole congregation was warming. I hope to continue to be of service to the Early United Methodist Church for a long time.
….Marlys Waters
Dear Friends at Early UMC…
May you experience His faithfulness and love during this Christmas season and the coming year.
Thank you for the "shawl" you gave us during your charge conference. We really appreciate your love and support especially during this transition time of the Iowa United Methodist Church. God bless you all!
Yours in Christ,
Rev. Bernie & Linda Colorado
Poinsettias - Christmas 2007
GIVEN BY: IN MEMORY OF:
John & Jeannette Weber Family John & Doris Weber
John & Jeannette Weber Family Richard Fredericks
Sue McKnight Jim McKnight
Neil & Anita Mason Family Robert & Mary Louise Mason
Neil & Anita Mason Family Wayne & Mildred Robinson
The Mason Family Donavon & Lois Mason
The Mason Family E. E. & Elsie Mason
Nera Zimmer & Family Milton Zimmer
Ruth Steele and Dennis & Mary Lou Foster Steele
Steele and family
Dennis & Mary Lou Steele Family Ernest & Elsie Davis
Ann-Marie Smith and Pastor
DeeAnn & family Donald I. Smith
The roses on the altar are given by the Jodi & Kristi Bihrer family
in loving memory of Martin and Joanne Bihrer
 Thank
you to all who shared poinsettias and decorated Christmas trees with us
during the Advent and Christmas season. We appreciate your generosity in
helping to beautify our sanctuary during the holiday season. |
December 23, 2007
Friends,
We lift up several prayer requests from worship today, asking each be
rasied to our heavenly Father for his care, concern, and lavish love to
be showered upon those named here:
Ruth Steele who fell on Saturday and fractured her shoulder. She and her
family will meet with the surgeon to determine if surgery is necessary.
Bill Determan who began treatments for pancreatic cancer last week.
Betty Schmidt who will undergo gall bladder surgery this coming Friday.
Bentley Bihrer who will soon have shoulder surgery.
Chris Klapp who will soon be reunited with his family after a tour in
Iraq.
Lee Mason and his battle with his health.
All those who will be traveling for the holidays.
Pastor's friend, Lorraine, who is suffering from a broken hip on the
heels of gall bladder surgery.
All those who will be celebrating Christmas this week and the days to
come. Help us all to remember Jesus is truly the only reason for the
season. Because of his birth, we are made whole, sinless when we
confess, and squarely on the path to salvation.
In true joy and praise, we thank God for his blessings upon the Early
UMC - Pastor DeeAnn as well as the spirt of renewal and rebirth which
has permeated our congregation. We give God the glory for allowing us to
pay our 2007 apportionments in full and on time for the first time in
many, many years. God is indeed good and greatly to be praised.
As we prepare to worship together on Christmas Eve, let's remember these
words from Luke:
"Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ
the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in
cloths and lying in a manger." Suddenly a great company of the heavenly
host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, "Glory to God in
the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests."-
Luke 2:11-14
December 20, 2007
Friends,
We come before the Lord today with many prayer requests...
We lift up in praise and celebration Gina Padgett whose son, Kai, was
born on Wednesday by c-section. Both mom and son are doing well. We
offer our congratulations to grandparents Herb and Robyn as well as
great-grandma and grandpa Padgett, aunts Gala and Gennifer, uncle Jeremy
and cousins Carter, Paige, and Brenden. (And the writer asks forgiveness
for any misspellings!)
Our hearts are united in prayer for Bill Determan who begins treatment
for cancer this week. His doctors told Bill they want to do both
radiation and chemo - a good sign they believe they can get ahead of the
cancer even though it's inoperable.
We raise up Betty Schmidt who will undergo gall bladder surgery on
December 28. We remember as well her brothers-in-law who are dealing
with medical issues.
Our prayers are sent heaven-ward for Lee Mason as he struggles with his
cancer diagnosis. We request peace, painlessness, comfort and strength
for all in his family.
For all these requests - and those unwritten but stamped upon our hearts
- we asks God's blessings. All things are possible through him who
created and sustains us.
Glory be to God, his son, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit.
Amen.
December 15, 2007
Friends,
We lift up young Owen Worthan who is returning home today after a stay
in a Sioux Falls hospital as doctors continue to work on his digestive
problems. We raise up Emily and Gabe and Owen's grandparents, aunts, and
uncles during this difficult time, asking for the Lord's strength,
wisdom, and care be with them all. We continue to pray for Owen for
healing and comfort.
Read these words of comfort and trust:
Psalm 16
1-2 Keep me safe, O God,
I've run for dear life to you.
I say to God, "Be my
Lord!"
Without you, nothing makes sense.
3 And these God-chosen lives
all around—
what splendid friends they make!
4 Don't just go shopping for
a god.
Gods are not for sale.
I swear I'll never treat god-names
like brand-names.
5-6 My choice is you,
God , first and only.
And now I find I'm your choice!
You set me up with a house and yard.
And then you made me your heir!
7-8 The wise counsel
God gives when I'm awake
is confirmed by my sleeping heart.
Day and night I'll stick with
God;
I've got a good thing going and I'm not letting go.
9-10 I'm happy from the
inside out,
and from the outside in, I'm firmly formed.
You canceled my ticket to hell—
that's not my destination!
11 Now you've got my feet on
the life path,
all radiant from the shining of your face.
Ever since you took my hand,
I'm on the right way.
December 16, 2007 bulletin
Fellow
Church Members….
Thank you so much for the wonderful prayer shawl. It has been such a blessing
to wrap up in its warmth and coziness! I truly appreciate your concern.
….Barb
Determan
Thank You . . . I
just wanted to thank everyone for the prayer shawl I received at the time I
broke my ankle. It is beautiful and I appreciate all the kindness and
prayers shown to me during this time. Thank you so much.
Cynthia Garthoff
December 9, 2007 bulletin
GREETINGS FROM CAROL GAILEY AND
NATHANIAL GAILEY-SCHILTZ
Dear Friends,
Merry Christmas!
Happy New Year! And Greetings to you from Nathanial and Carol.
It’s been eight months since Karl’s passing, and we want to thank you for the
prayers and support that has continued to flow from your hearts to ours.
Our news in brief:
Nathanial continues to love his studies at Grinnell College, majoring in Music
and having a concentration area of East Asian studies. He is completing his
plans to study at Sophia University in Tokyo, Japan for spring term (mid-March
through end of July).
I am settled in
Williamsburg, IA (near Iowa City). I keep myself busy - attending several
seminars and workshops, continuing to sift through the remains of Karl’s things,
and considering how I might next be of service in the world. In September I
traveled to Germany with my mother and our regular tour group. It was a lovely
trip. For Christmas we will go to Kentucky to be with my family.
It is always good to
hear from you, and my door is open to you if you want to stop by as you may be
traveling this way Address reminder: 705 Franklin St., Williamsburg, IA
52361. Phone: 319-668-2456.
With love, gratitude,
and peace to you,
Carol Gailey and
Nathanial Gailey-Schiltz
December 9, 2007 bulletin:
An Invitation to the
Early UMC:
The President, the Faculty and The Graduating Class of The University of Iowa
College of Business announce the graduation of Nelson Fredericks Weber on Sat.,
Dec. 22, 2007 with a Bachelor of Business Administration Degree in
Finance, Risk and Management Certificate. Commencement Ceremonies will be
held at the Hatcher Auditorium at 9:00 a.m. Our congratulations to Nelson
and his family!!
December 9, 2007 bulletin
Thank You…
Dear Members of United
Methodist Church,
Thank you so much
for the prayer shawl I received during my recent illness. Thank you for all the
prayers on my behalf. I know they all helped a great deal!
…Jerry Irwin
* * * * * * * * *
December 9, 2007
Friends,
This morning during worship, we continued to build our anticipation for the
birthday of Jesus. We raised up many prayer requests and list these joys and
concerns for you here to keep close to your heart this week.
Joys
- Nelson Weber's college graduation later this month
- New creche and outdoor nativity
- Only $3000 (approximately) left to pay on 2007 apportionments
Concerns
- Betty Schmidt's brothers-in-law with health concerns - Ray and Tom
- Bill Determan who was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer this week
- Becca Ray who remains hospitalized in Spencer
- Pastor DeeAnn and her family as they travel to Texas to visit their
daughter and family early this week
- Members of our military including Pastor's son Chris who has just 15
days until he returns to the states from Iraq
We lift our hearts in praise of our God who desires only good for his
children. We rely upon him to meet our every need. And in that trust we
build our faith and walk with Jesus in the presence of the Holy Spirit. Read
these words of rejoicing from Psalm 95 (The Message):
Psalm 95
1-2 Come, let's shout praises to
God, raise the roof for the
Rock who saved us!
Let's march into his presence singing praises,
lifting the rafters with our hymns!
3-5 And why? Because
God is the best,
High King over all the gods.
In one hand he holds deep caves and caverns,
in the other hand grasps the high mountains.
He made Ocean—he owns it!
His hands sculpted Earth!
6-7 So come, let us worship: bow
before him,
on your knees before God, who made us!
Oh yes, he's our God,
and we're the people he pastures, the flock he feeds.
December 7, 2007
Friends,
We lift up the students in our church family for God's blessing as they
prepare for finals, semester tests, and end of the year responsibilities. We
seek the Lord's help for them to have focus, clarity of the mind, and good
habits leading to success. We ask they be safe and secure as they work to
achieve their goals - academically and spiritually. And we seek the Holy
Spirit's presence in their lives.
Let's look at Phillipians 3 and read Paul's words about goals...
12-14I'm not saying that I have
this all together, that I have it made. But I am well on my way, reaching
out for Christ, who has so wondrously reached out for me. Friends, don't get
me wrong: By no means do I count myself an expert in all of this, but I've
got my eye on the goal, where God is beckoning us onward—to Jesus. I'm off
and running, and I'm not turning back.
15-16So let's keep focused on
that goal, those of us who want everything God has for us. If any of you have
something else in mind, something less than total commitment, God will clear
your blurred vision—you'll see it yet! Now that we're on the right track, let's
stay on it.
17-19Stick with me, friends. Keep
track of those you see running this same course, headed for this same goal.
There are many out there taking other paths, choosing other goals, and trying to
get you to go along with them. I've warned you of them many times; sadly, I'm
having to do it again. All they want is easy street. They hate Christ's Cross.
But easy street is a dead-end street. Those who live there make their bellies
their gods; belches are their praise; all they can think of is their appetites.
20-21But there's far more to life
for us. We're citizens of high heaven! We're waiting the arrival of the Savior,
the Master, Jesus Christ, who will transform our earthly bodies into glorious
bodies like his own. He'll make us beautiful and whole with the same powerful
skill by which he is putting everything as it should be, under and around him.
December 4, 2007
Friends,
Please keep Becca in your prayers as she's in the Spencer hospital's mental
health unit. Raise her up asking the Lord to relieve her anxiety and for her
caregivers to assist her in regaining her well-being. We lift up Ethan and
Carlos as well during this time.
We are confident in knowing the Lord will provide his strength to his
people. Read these words from Psalm 68 (the whole chapter is worth
reviewing, too!)
32 Sing to God, O kingdoms of
the earth,
sing praise to the Lord,
Selah 33 to him who
rides the ancient skies above,
who thunders with mighty voice.
34 Proclaim the power of God,
whose majesty is over Israel,
whose power is in the skies.
35 You are awesome, O God, in
your sanctuary;
the God of Israel gives power and strength to his people.
Praise be to God!
December 3, 2007
Friends,
We lift up Barb Determan who underwent surgery this morning in Omaha. The
doctor said surgery (removing her thyroid and growths on both sides) went as
expected. She may get to return home Tuesday though the doctor said
Wednesday was a possibility as well.
We thank our good and gracious God for his compassion and care for his
children. We lift up Barb and her family as she begins recovery from this
procedure and ask the Holy Spirit to be present. And we pray for God's
healing touch to be upon Barb.
Read these words from James and be reassured that our faith will be
rewarded.
James 1
1I, James, am a slave of God and
the Master Jesus, writing to the twelve tribes scattered to Kingdom Come:
Hello! Faith Under Pressure 2-4Consider
it a sheer gift, friends, when tests and challenges come at you from all
sides. You know that under pressure, your faith-life is forced into the open
and shows its true colors. So don't try to get out of anything prematurely.
Let it do its work so you become mature and well-developed, not deficient in
any way.
5-8If you don't know what
you're doing, pray to the Father. He loves to help. You'll get his help, and
won't be condescended to when you ask for it. Ask boldly, believingly,
without a second thought. People who "worry their prayers" are like
wind-whipped waves. Don't think you're going to get anything from the Master
that way, adrift at sea, keeping all your options open.
9-11When down-and-outers get
a break, cheer! And when the arrogant rich are brought down to size, cheer!
Prosperity is as short-lived as a wildflower, so don't ever count on it. You
know that as soon as the sun rises, pouring down its scorching heat, the
flower withers. Its petals wilt and, before you know it, that beautiful face
is a barren stem. Well, that's a picture of the "prosperous life." At the
very moment everyone is looking on in admiration, it fades away to nothing.
12Anyone who meets a testing
challenge head-on and manages to stick it out is mighty fortunate. For such
persons loyally in love with God, the reward is life and more life.
13-15Don't let anyone under
pressure to give in to evil say, "God is trying to trip me up." God is
impervious to evil, and puts evil in no one's way. The temptation to give in
to evil comes from us and only us. We have no one to blame but the leering,
seducing flare-up of our own lust. Lust gets pregnant, and has a baby: sin!
Sin grows up to adulthood, and becomes a real killer.
16-18So, my very dear
friends, don't get thrown off course. Every desirable and beneficial gift
comes out of heaven. The gifts are rivers of light cascading down from the
Father of Light. There is nothing deceitful in God, nothing two-faced,
nothing fickle. He brought us to life using the true Word, showing us off as
the crown of all his creatures.
December 2007 Newsletter:
Dear Members of the Early UMC:
On behalf of our church, thank you very much for the lovely plant that you sent to our church for our 150th birthday. We had a wonderful two-day celebration. Thank you so much for thinking of us.
…Ida Grove UMC
* * * * * * * * *
A special thank you to all from our church family who were by our side at the time of my dad’s death. Your prayers, visits, cards, memorial gifts, and food were very much appreciated. Your remembrance of Dad will always be treasured.
…….Neil & Anita Mason & family
* * * * * * * * *
I would like to thank all of the United Methodist congregation for the prayers, card, and prayer shawl when I broke my leg in October. ….Eldon Cuthrell
* * * * * * * * * Thanks so much for the Prayer Shawl. I appreciate it, and I am sure it will be nice and warm over my shoulders this winter. Thank you to Pastor DeeAnn for her nice visit, to Ann Ray for her visit and delivery of the shawl, and to Dawn Freese for her expert crocheting in making the shawl. God bless all of you.
…Elma Hatch
* * * * * * * * *
United Methodist Church Family,
Thank you so much for the beautiful prayer shawl you made for me. It is so comforting, and I just love the colors!! I truly appreciate all of the kind thoughts and prayers, and am just absorbing them all as fast as I can. I know they are helping to heal me.
…… Love, Mary Feldhoff
* * * * * * * * *
Our 2007
Apportionments have been paid! Thank You for fulfilling the ministry
commitment of the Early UMC. Every gift supporting the ministry of the
church starts by someone recognizing God’s blessing in their life and being
willing to share those blessings with others. All of us are strengthened
with a generous spirit as we give as God has given us.
November 30, 2007
Friends,
Ruth's surgery today due to a broken hip was successful. The doctors told her family they hadn't seen such a tiny hip, however, they were pleased with how everything went. Please continue to lift Ruth, her family, and caregivers in your prayers for a successful recovery.
Tonight let us also be in prayer over the weather forecasted for our area. Raise up all those who will be on the roads and pray for their safety.
We ask the Lord's guidance as decisions must be made in the morning regarding Christmas Capers as well as Hanging of the Greens scheduled for Saturday.
God is good - in all days and in all ways. When together we raise our voices, he will hear and answer our prayers. To God be all the glory.
November 29, 2007
Friends,
Ruth Steele fell yesterday at Methodist Manor and broke her hip. She's
in BVRMC at this time and will have surgery tomorrow. We ask the Lord's
presence with Ruth and her family as she goes into surgery and recovery
to follow. We also raise her caregivers for God's guidance, wisdom, and
compassion as they care for her.
All things asked in Jesus' name will be given to those who have faith
and trust in him. Read these words from Psalm 103 which reassure of us
the glory given God's children, to all who are faithful.
Psalm 103
1-2 O my soul, bless
God. From head to toe,
I'll bless his holy name!
O my soul, bless God,
don't forget a single blessing!
3-5 He forgives your
sins—every one.
He heals your diseases—every one.
He redeems you from hell—saves your life!
He crowns you with love and mercy—a paradise crown.
He wraps you in goodness—beauty eternal.
He renews your youth—you're always young in his presence.
6-18 God makes everything
come out right;
he puts victims back on their feet.
He showed Moses how he went about his work,
opened up his plans to all Israel.
God is sheer mercy and grace;
not easily angered, he's rich in love.
He doesn't endlessly nag and scold,
nor hold grudges forever.
He doesn't treat us as our sins deserve,
nor pay us back in full for our wrongs.
As high as heaven is over the earth,
so strong is his love to those who fear him.
And as far as sunrise is from sunset,
he has separated us from our sins.
As parents feel for their children,
God feels for those who fear him.
He knows us inside and out,
keeps in mind that we're made of mud.
Men and women don't live very long;
like wildflowers they spring up and blossom,
But a storm snuffs them out just as quickly,
leaving nothing to show they were here.
God's love, though, is ever and always,
eternally present to all who fear him,
Making everything right for them and their children
as they follow his Covenant ways
and remember to do whatever he said.
19-22 God has set his throne
in heaven;
he rules over us all. He's the King!
So bless God, you angels,
ready and able to fly at his bidding,
quick to hear and do what he says.
Bless God, all you armies of angels,
alert to respond to whatever he wills.
Bless God, all creatures, wherever you are—
everything and everyone made by God.
And you, O my soul, bless God!
November 25, 2007
Friends,
We raise up Francis Dahm who was seriously injured by a falling tree. We ask the Lord's healing power be upon him as he begins a long and tough recovery. We also ask God to be present for Francis' family, his doctors, and other caregivers.
We remember Jerry Irwin who was able to have surgery last Friday. The infection was very serious and they are grateful the doctors were able to operate as waiting could have been a disaster. We ask the Lord to be with Jerry and his family during his healing.
WIth praise and thanksgiving we welcome home Wanda and Swede's granddaughter Angie who is back in Colorado after serving in Iraq. And we ask the Lord's protection over Pastor DeeAnn's son, Chris, as he is less than 30 days away from returning to his home after serving a tour in Iraq. We ask God to guide, guard, and protect all of those in our nation's military whether they are serving at home or abroad.
Be in prayer for Butch and Betty's Schmidts' relative as he anticipates surgery this week.
We thank God for the blessings of a new childrens' bell choir who delighted us today during worship with "The Church's One Foundation." It was magnificent! We also raise Mary Fuhs and her helpers for introducing this ministry to our youth.
In all days, in all ways, we should give praise to King Jesus, Lord of us all, who lives and reigns and will come again. He is our savior, friend, and redeemer. To him be all honor and glory, forever and ever. Amen.
November 21, 2007
Friends,
We lift up Jerry Irwin who is being transferred from BVRMC in Storm Lake to Clarkson Hospital in Omaha this morning because the inflamation associated with the gall stones is not improving. Please raise Jerry to the Lord asking for healing and travel safety for all who will be making this trip to Omaha. Lift up the medical personnel taking care of Jerry, asking for wisdom for them as they work to alleviate the infection and pain. Ask God to be present for Sharon, Paul, and all their family in this time of upset and concern.
Remember and pray these words from Psalm 28:
6 Praise be to the LORD,
for he has heard my cry for mercy.
7 The LORD is my strength and my shield;
my heart trusts in him, and I am helped.
My heart leaps for joy
and I will give thanks to him in song.
8 The LORD is the strength of his people,
a fortress of salvation for his anointed one.
November 20, 2007
Pastor DeeAnn asks us to also include in our prayers this week her good friend Kim Shepherd whose father passed away this past weekend. Kim is lay leader at the Mondamin United Methodist Church.
November 20, 2007
Friends,
We lift up several people in need of prayerful support!
Wanda Bulten has bronchitis and we raise her in prayer as she recovers.
Jerry Irwin is in the hospital with gall stones. He will be coming home and taking some medication to reduce the inflamation before returning to the hospital to have them surgically removed. We raise up Jerry, Sharon, and their family as they struggle through these next few days.
Monica Graybill had a total hip replacement on Monday in Sioux Falls. The surgery went very well and the doctors are optimistic about a quick recovery for her. (She suffers from a congentical hip disorder necessitating the surgery while she's still in her 30s.)
Your prayers asking for blessings over our ecumencial Thanksgiving Eve service tomorrow are requested. Let our time together be a joyful celebration of the many gifts we have received from our Heavenly Father. We will gather to worship at 7:00 pm at the Early Presbyterian Church.
We read these words from Colossians 2 (The Message):
6-7 My counsel for you is simple and straightforward: Just go ahead with what you've been given. You received Christ Jesus, the Master; now live him. You're deeply rooted in him. You're well constructed upon him. You know your way around the faith. Now do what you've been taught. School's out; quit studying the subject and start living it! And let your living spill over into thanksgiving.
November 13, 2007
Friends,
We lift up several families in prayer this evening.
Owen Worthan, infant son of Emily and Gabe Worthan, has been
hospitalized since Sunday. He's in St. Luke's Hospital in Sioux City and
they anticipate surgery Wednesday morning to correct an issue preventing
him from thriving. Please raise them in prayer in this time of concern,
asking God to wrap them in his loving arms, providing strength, comfort,
and wisdom for the medical personnel caring for Owen.
We also remember two members of the Odebolt UMC. Kris Gunderson's
mother, Della, passed away and her funeral is tomorrow. We remember
Kris, Steve, and their family in this time of loss.
Duane Simonsen will have open heart surgery tomorrow. We offer our
prayers for Duane and his family as well as the medical team assisting
in his surgery.
As you lift these friends in prayer, meditate on the words from Psalm
121:
A Pilgrim Song
1-2 I look up to the
mountains; does my strength come from mountains?
No, my strength comes from God,
who made heaven, and earth, and mountains.
3-4 He won't let you
stumble,
your Guardian God won't fall asleep.
Not on your life! Israel's
Guardian will never doze or sleep.
5-6 God's your Guardian,
right at your side to protect you—
Shielding you from sunstroke,
sheltering you from moonstroke.
7-8
God guards you from every
evil,
he guards your very life.
He guards you when you leave and when you return,
he guards you now, he guards you always.
November 13, 2007
Lift up these members and friends of our church family in
your prayers:
- Martin Blass as he celebrates his 100th birthday on
November 14
- Pastor DeeAnn as she continues to lead us in closer
relationship with the annointing of the Holy Spirit
- DS Bernie Colorado as he conducts charge conferences
across the district - arriving in Early on December 3
- Anita as she prepares the charge conference reports for
filing and the booklet of information
- The finance committee as they prepare for Stewardship
Sunday this week
- Angie and Chris - and all soldiers serving overseas and
at home
- Pastor's friend with back problems
- Lee and Hallie Mason as Lee has surgery this week
- Jeannette as she continues to adjust to her new job
- Our youth and their leaders
- The many blessings we all receive
October 27, 2007
Friends,
Today we lift up Wayne Robinson's family in our prayers. He passed away
very early this morning. While we are left to grieve his loss, we
rejoice in knowing Wayne has loosed his earthly bonds and risen to
heaven where he now enjoys eternal life - a life free from pain and
concern, a daily celebration of all that's good. As we remember Anita,
Norma, and Rich and their families in our prayers, we think also of the
life of this farmer and read these words from Ecclesiates.
Ecclesiastes 3
A Time for Everything
1 There is a time for
everything,
and a season for every activity under heaven:
2 a time to be born and a
time to die,
a time to plant and a time to uproot,
3 a time to kill and a
time to heal,
a time to tear down and a time to build,
4 a time to weep and a
time to laugh,
a time to mourn and a time to dance,
5 a time to scatter
stones and a time to gather them,
a time to embrace and a time to refrain,
6 a time to search and a
time to give up,
a time to keep and a time to throw away,
7 a time to tear and a
time to mend,
a time to be silent and a time to speak,
8 a time to love and a
time to hate,
a time for war and a time for peace.
October 25, 2007
Friends,
We lift up Wayne Robinson who had a bad night and remains hospitalized.
The Lord knows his needs and with compassion will provide for Wayne and
his family in this difficult time.
Lee Mason had tests today which revealed a concern for him - more tests
will be taking place. We ask God to wrap Lee, Hallie, and their families
in his loving arms, providing strength, comfort, and wisdom for the days
ahead.
From 2 Corinthians 4:16-18 (The Message), we read these verses:
So we're not giving up. How could we! Even though on the outside it
often looks like things are falling apart on us, on the inside, where
God is making new life, not a day goes by without his unfolding grace.
These hard times are small potatoes compared to the coming good times,
the lavish celebration prepared for us. There's far more here than meets
the eye. The things we see now are here today, gone tomorrow. But the
things we can't see now will last forever.
October 24, 2007
Friends,
We come before the Lord today with many prayer requests.
We lift up Wayne Robinson who is in the hospital in Storm Lake. We ask
the Lord's presence in his life as he copes with this illness and the
transition from his home to a nursing facility. We also remember his
children, Anita, Norma, and Rich, as they work through this adjustment
with him.
We ask for comfort and strength for the family of Roland Geyer who
passed away this week. His funeral will be Thursday in Storm Lake at
Lakeside Presbyterian Church. We know the heavenly Father will be with
Tod and provide for him what is needed in this time of loss and grief.
 We also have prayers of joy to raise to the Lord. Ethan Matthew De La
Cruz was born today to Rebecca Ray and Carlos De La Cruz. Ethan weighed
6 pounds, 14 ounces, measured 20.5 inches long, and took most of two
days to arrive. His proud grandparents are Ann and Roger Ray.
We turn to the Psalms
where we read these words from chapter 5, verses 11 and 12. The Lord
does indeed surround each of us - no matter our circumstances - with his
favor!
11 But let all who take
refuge in you be glad;
let them ever sing for joy.
Spread your protection over them,
that those who love your name may rejoice in you.
12 For surely, O LORD,
you bless the righteous;
you surround them with your favor as with a shield.
50 Year Members - October 21, 2007
We offer our congratulations to the new 50 year members of the Early United Methodist Church who were honored on Sunday, October 21 during the morning worship hour. They are Wanda Bulten, Mary Corrin, Betty Ellinger, Pauline Jones, and Dennis Steele. They were honored for being committed to Christ and giving faithful service to the Early congregation. It is a jubilee and holy!
They join others who have been members of the Early church for 50 or more consecutive years: Nadine Baker, George Blass, Jean Blass, Nera Zimmer, Beth Evans, Erwin Nielsen, Rose Nielsen, Melvin Wright, Mildred Wright, Raymond Mentzer, Keith Domino, Ed Schramm, Lee Mason, Margaret Hansen, Dick Wadsley, Ruth Steele, LaVerne Geisinger, and Mildred Irwin.
A time of fellowship in their honor was held in the Mabel Allen Lounge following the worship service.
Click on 2007 Photo Album to view a photo.
October 17, 2007
Friends,
Our congratulations to Emily and Gabe Worthan who became parents of a son, Owen Thomas, on Tuesday, October 16, 2007, at Buena Vista Regional Medical Center in Storm Lake. Proud grandparents are Jim and Brenda Kunneke
As we mark this occasion, we remember the words of Jesus, who said:
Matthew 18:2-6
He called a little child and had him stand among them. And he said: "I
tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you
will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever humbles himself
like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. "And whoever
welcomes a little child like this in my name welcomes me.
October 16, 2007
Today we lift up Robin Wissink and her family upon the loss of her aunt.
We ask God's blessings on Robin, Dennis, Erin, Molly, and Robin's
parents, John and Mary Korthals. The funeral service is today.
October 8, 2007
Hi Friends,
We lift up Christ and Jess Ernst as they have moved from Early to Holstein
recently. We are joyful that they keep the Early UMC close to their hearts.
September 28, 2007
Friends,
I would like to ask you to keep my friend, Mary Feldhoff, in your prayers. Mary is married to a college friend of mine and was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer this week. You can learn more about Mary so you can "see" who you are lifting in prayer by visiting
http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/maryfeldhoff
As I shared with Bryce and Mary, they can trust in the Lord for their strength as they go down this path.
Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.
Blessings,
Ann
Septamber 20, 2007
Friends,
Tonight we lift up Tina Clausen who passed away. We ask the Lord 's blessings on her and her family in this time of loss.
September 18, 2007
Friends,
The daily devotional sent by the folks at Purpose Driven Life for
Monday, September 17 seems written just for us! It includes reference to
Joseph - the subject of Pastor DeeAnn's sermon series - as well as the
encouragement to let go and let God, which is one of the focus points
for this week's Prayer Force. Please enjoy.
by Jon Walker
"You meant evil against me, but God meant it for good in
order to bring about this present result." (Genesis 50:20 NIV)
Joseph's life was anything but peaceful. It was complicated by
youthful folly, broken dreams, and the mean-spirited actions of others.
Sold into slavery by jealous brothers. Thrown into prison on false
charges. Yet he remained a man remarkable for his lack of bitterness or
regret, always seeing God as the "Great Engineer" behind even the worst
of circumstances.
In a final confrontation with his brothers, he graciously noted, "You
meant it for bad; God meant it for good."
The theology packed in that statement is astounding. "God meant it
for good" means:
You can accept the past – No sin, no action, no choice on your
part is too big for God to handle – or too big to be worked for the good
of those who love him and are called according to his purpose. (Romans
8:28) Just ask Joseph! Better yet, ask his fearful and famished
brothers, who were forced to rely on him for survival.
You can embrace the present – There's no need to play the
"what if" game. The past is gone, and no energy you expend will ever
change it. The future is in God's omnipotent hands, so you're free to
focus on the present. Your job is to love God with all your heart, soul,
and mind, trusting him to forgive the past and transform the future.
Martyred missionary Jim Eliot once wrote, "Wherever you are, be all
there" – not living in the past and not fantasizing about the future.
God wants you in the present because that's where his grace will flow.
You can look expectantly toward the future – Even if you make
mistakes today, God still controls your future. Walking in the Spirit,
you can live life to the fullest, unafraid of making mistakes and
unconcerned that you may stumble into some terrible circumstance that
takes you out of God's control. Even when things appear to be terrible,
you can trust that God is working out some divine plan through you.
What does this mean?
· No matter how bad things get – God is still able to bring
good out of it. Today, thank God that nothing – no disaster, no delay –
is bigger that his ability to turn it into something good and godly.
· Thank God and let go – Thank God that he is sovereign over
your past, your present, and your future.
§ Give God the circumstances, disasters, hindrances, hurts, and sins
from your past.
§ Give God your current situation, your disasters, hindrances, hurts,
and sins of today.
§ Praise God that he can work anything in your future for godly good,
that you can walk in confidence that there is nothing anyone can do to
you, or anything you can do that will be beyond the reach of God's grace
and redemption.
· Look for God's hand – Walking by faith means you see God's
hand even in the most difficult of circumstances. You trust his ability
and his willingness to transform the bad into godly good. God is not
limited by people's motives. In other words, it doesn't matter why
someone hurt you, God still can transform a deliberate, mean-spirited
situation into something for his good.
· What will you allow God to change? – There it is: some
situation, or event, or person in your life that, as far as you can
tell, was "meant for bad." How do you think God meant it for good? Ask
God what he wants you to do with this situation (event or person). When
he answers, do it.
© 2007 Jon Walker. All rights reserved.
You can sign up to receive these daily emails from the Purpose Driven
Life by visiting
www.purposedrivenlife.com.
September 14, 2007
 Friends,
Services for Nancy Hendrickson were held Monday at 2 pm at the Early UMC. Nancy L. Hendrickson, age 65, of Early, Iowa, passed away on Thursday, September 13, 2007, at Park View Care Center in Sac City following a lengthy illness.
Memorial services will be held at 2:00 p.m., on Monday, September 17, 2007, at the United Methodist Church in Early, Iowa, with Reverend DeAnn Klapp officiating. The Farber & Otteman Funeral Home in Sac City is in charge of arrangements.
Nancy Lou (Nailor) Hendrickson was born on December 27, 1941, in Sioux City,
Iowa, the daughter of George and Esther (Kerr) Nailor. She grew up in
Climbing Hill, Iowa, and moved to Sioux City after her father’s death when
she was nine years old.
On August 6, 1965, Nancy was united in marriage to David Hendrickson in Sioux City. To this union four children were born: Holly, Tobias, André, and Lew. They made their home southeast of Early.
Nancy worked at the Chronicle, retiring in July of 2007. She was a member of
the United Methodist Church in Early and involved in the Women’s Club.
A complete
obituary may be viewed at http://www.farberotteman.com..
September 12, 2007
Friends,
Please lift up the worship team at the Early UMC as they work to prepare a series on Joseph and his coat of may colors. Your prayers of support are coveted by the team who is seeking to develop worship which is pleasing to God, honoring Him in all ways, and reaching the hearts of those who participate. The series will begin this Sunday.
September 9, 2007
Friends,
Karen Wadsley, a former member of our congregation, is experiencing health challenges. We lift her in prayer as she prepares to undergo tests this week to determine why fluid is building up in her body. We ask the Lord 's blessings on her as well as her husband, Joe, and their entire family.
We also remember Justin Puffer as he goes to see the neurologist this week. Keep Justin, Sara, Matthew, Mallory, Savanna, Amy, Tim, and Kyle in your prayers as they travel though the unknown.
We lift up Marlys Snavely and Nancy Hendrickson as well, whose struggles continue. Marlys is now residing at Buena Vista Manor and Nancy is at Park View Care Center.
Loving God,
We ask your arms of protection, love, and support be wrapped around Karen, Justin, Nancy, and Marlys at this difficult time. Annoint them with your healing touch. Please also give their doctors wisdom so they might treat them appropriately. For your constant love and support, your blessings and care, we thank you, merciful Father. These things in Jesus ' name we pray, Amen.
September 7, 2007
Friends,
Let us lift up Justin Puffer in our prayers. Justin fell last Sunday and was taken to the hospital. During tests this week, they confirmed he was having seizures. Justin will see a neurologist next week as they begin putting a plan in place for him to manage the petit mal seizures.
As we pray for Justin 's recovery to health, we also remember his family including his wife, Sara, and their three young children: Matthew, Mallory, and Savanna. His mom, Amy Kuehler, and her husband, Tim, as well as sister Coty are in our hearts as well. We remember just a few months ago the loss of Kacey to seizures. While she suffered from grand mal seizures, Justin 's recent diagnosis creates fear and anxiety for the entire family.
Heavenly Father, we come before you to ask that you provide strenth and comfort to Justin and his family. Be with them in this time of uncertainty and give them signs of your presence in their lives. Help them to understand your perfect will for our lives and your unconditional love. Let them see that you plan all things for the good of your children.
Be with Justin 's doctors as they develop a treatment plan to combat the seizures, giving Justin and Sara peace of mind for the future.
Creator God, we ask you to wrap your loving arms around the Puffer family. Their need is great and your ability to meet those needs even greater. Jesus, walk with these members of our church family through this maze of uncertainty, providing reassurance. And Holy Spirit, touch their lives so they know the awesome power of of their faith at a time when they are strugging.
All these things we ask in Jesus ' name, Amen.
Obituary for Donald I. Smith - September 4, 2007
Donald I. Smith, 85, of Bemidji, formerly of Grand Forks, ND, died Saturday, September 1, 2007 at home. Memorial Services were held at 1:00 pm, Thursday, September 6th at the Cease Family Funeral Home in Bemidji with Rev. Dr. DeeAnn Klapp officiating.
He is survived by his wife Ann-Marie Smith of Bemidji, two daughters- Cheryl (Ed) Rogers of Cumming, Georgia, Rev. Dr. DeeAnn (John) Klapp of Correctionville, Iowa, six grandchildren and seven great grandchildren.
You may view a complete obituary at http://ceasefuneralhome.com/.
| "I
am the resurrection and the life," says our Lord. "He who believes in
me, though he die, yet shall he live; and whoever lives and believes in
me, shall never die"
John 11:25-26 |
On behalf
of my mother, sister, family, and myself, thank you for your many kind gestures
of sympathy. The beautiful plant, cards, and memorial gifts, and especially
your prayers, were greatly appreciated.
May God
bless you as He blessed us through you.
…..Pastor
DeeAnn, John
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