ST. PETER MACOMB LUTHERAN CHURCH & SCHOOL
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ST. PETER MACOMB KEYNOTES
LUTHERAN CHURCH & SCHOOL April 2023
Our mission is to glorify God by making and growing disciples of Jesus Christ.
Are You A Good Friday or Easter Christian?
But the angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you seek Jesus who was
crucified. He is not here, for he has risen, as he said. Come, see the place where he lay. Then go
quickly and tell his disciples that he has risen from the dead, and behold, he is going before you to
Galilee; there you will see him. See, I have told you.” Matthew 28:5-7
In one of his devotional books, Dr. Rich Bimler once told the story of an 87-year-old woman who
was moving to a nursing home. She and her family realized that it would be best since she could
have the appropriate care and attention that she needed…and she was completely supportive and
excited to be with her peers.
While moving in, the woman spotted a quiet, older gentleman sitting by himself in the corner --
which prompted her to head in his direction, look him over, and say, “You remind me of my
third husband!”
Taken aback and not knowing how to respond to this somewhat aggressive woman, the elderly
man asked, “Well, how many husbands have you had?” To this the woman smiled and promptly
responded, “Two.”
Over the years I’ve met a number of folks who could easily be described as having Good Friday
personalities. They are those who somehow manage to live their lives in a constant somber state
that precedes them where-ever they go. To them, “church” is a place of repentance and
reverence…and their facial expressions and attitude appear to demonstrate this no matter what.
I’ve also met people who are somewhat like the woman that Dr. Bimler joked about. These are the
people who live life from a completely different perspective. They are those who could be labeled
as having Easter personalities because they often have a smile on their face and exude a sense of
joy and happiness. To them, “church” is a place of joy and celebration, and it goes with them out
into the world.
I wonder on any given day how someone might describe you or me? (Believe me…I have those
days where it could go either way.) How would you describe yourself? Would you say that you
have a Good Friday or an Easter personality?
For us, it’s not that one is better or worse than the other because, as Good Friday and Easter
Christians, we describe our life and our identity in the crucified and risen Jesus Christ. This is a life
where we confess that the true joy of Easter can only be found through the Cross of Calvary; and in
the cross, we humbly see our sin for what it is while recognizing the reason for our Lord’s sacrificial
death in our place on Good Friday.
Continued on p. 2
1
Yet, it’s also a life where we acknowledge that the cross tells the Gospel truth that Christ has
conquered death, once and for all…and the proof is in the empty tomb! Which means…the
victory is ours in Christ Jesus; and we are no longer slaves to sin, but servants of the risen and
living Lord, Jesus Christ!
So…let me ask it again: Are we Good Friday or Easter Christians? I pray that others see that
we are both…because we have died with Christ and we have been raised to new life with Him.
As you continue to humble yourself during this season of Lent, may the truth of Easter (the
resurrection of our Lord and Savior) lead you to rejoice and share this life-renewing joy with
those around you.
A blessed Lent and Easter to all of you! Christ is risen! Alleluia!!!
God’s Blessings,
Pastor Kurt Wenzelburger
Faithful Living & Giving
A pastor was once asked to define “faithful giving.” His eye-opening remark was simple: “All I ask is
that you apply the same standards to your church giving that you would to other areas important to
your life!”
If you don’t think this is too much to ask, please consider the following:
If your car starts one out of three or four times, do you consider it faithful?
If you fail to come to work two or three times a month, would your boss call you faithful?
If your refrigerator quits working for a day now and then, do you excuse it and say, “Oh, well, it
works fine most of the time?”
If you miss a couple of mortgage or car payments during the year, would your bank say, “Oh,
well, 10 out of 12 isn’t that bad?”
Or, if you count on someone to meet you at a certain place at a certain time each week, and he
consistently stands you up, do you consider this person faithful in his promise to you?
Clearly, the above questions can be applied not only to financial giving and support of the ministry
of a congregation, but also to a person’s worship life. Putting God first in our lives has never been
easy; but we are given a fresh start with Him who has put us first in His Life.
Taken from Stewardship (February, 2005), Copyright 2005 Parish Publishing, LLC, New Canaan, CN
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Worship
*Please note: There will not be any pre-service readings on Good Friday. The Passion
Readings will be incorporated into the worship service.
“The Untouchables”
He is not here, but has risen. Remember how he told you, while he was still in Galilee, that the Son of
Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men and be crucified and on the third day rise. Luke
24:6-7
Greetings in Christ!
No, I am not about to write about the 1987 movie “The Untouchables” starring Kevin Costner, Robert De Niro
and Sean Connery. What kind of “untouchables” am I referring to? It could be a reference to our identity in
Christ, knowing that Satan “can harm us none. He’s judged; the deed is done” (LSB 656, stanza 3). Instead,
the “untouchables” I am referring to have to do with music in the church!
Out of all the Easter Sunday services that I can remember, both from growing up and in my years as a church
musician, I cannot recall a traditional service that did not begin with “Jesus Christ Is Risen Today” (LSB 457).
It is etched into my memory of Easter services, as we break out into joyous refrains of “Alleluia! He is risen!”
after our journey through Lent. In selecting hymns for Easter, this one to me has been an “untouchable” in its
place at the beginning of the Divine Service. That might not be the healthiest attitude, yet I am sure that many
of you likewise have this hymn come to mind as we think of Easter.
“Jesus Christ Is Risen Today” has its origin in a Bohemian (today a region of the Czech Republic) Latin hymn,
“Surrexit Christus hodie,” based on a trope on the Benedicamus Domino (Let us bless the Lord); a “trope”
means to add to historic/authorized text and music of the service. This was a very common practice during
the Middle Ages! The text appeared in German in the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries, with anonymous
additions made in the 1700s (stanzas 2 and 3). Charles Wesley, prolific hymnist and younger brother of
Methodism founder John Wesley, wrote the fourth stanza as a doxology in praise of the Trinity.
Continued on p. 4
3
As we sing this hymn, we are prompted to respond to each line with the acclamation of “Alleluia.”
Throughout the stanzas, we alternate between statements about the resurrection and invitations to sing
praise to the risen Christ.
Stanzas 1 and 3 are clearly rooted in Scripture and in presenting the doctrine/beliefs of the Church:
Christ “suffered to redeem our loss” and has risen. Because of this, Easter is “our triumphant holy day”
because God has given us the victory through Christ (1 Corinthians 15:57). We are reminded that He “did
once upon the cross, suffer to redeem our loss,” though Stanza 3 reminds us that through this suffering,
death and resurrection, our salvation has been “procured.” Risen in glory, He is our heavenly King
“above the sky, where the angels ever sing.”
Our responses of praise and thanksgiving are evident in Stanzas 2 and 4 as we give thanks for His
sacrifice which accomplishes all things for us. Through this “sacrifice of thanksgiving,” we join our voices
with those on earth and in heaven in a song of “blessing and honor and glory and might” to the Lamb
(Revelation 5:13).
The tune, EASTER HYMN, is equally etched in my mind! It has been paired with this text at least as far
back as 1708, though it has gone through some changes. Very quickly, it became popular in English
collections and has been a mainstay in American hymnals, as well.
As we prepare to sing this “untouchable” on Easter Sunday in our traditional services, take heart knowing
that through the death and resurrection of Christ, we are made alive. While sin surrounds us in the world
and we deal with the many troubles that we face, our salvation is accomplished and certain in Christ
alone. He is risen for you and has through the power of His Spirit given us faith. For this we offer our
sacrifice as we “sing to our God above, Alleluia!”
In His Service,
Charlie Russell
Director of Traditional Music
Robert’s Music Spotlight
This month I wanted to share with you the song “You’ve Already
Won” by Shane & Shane. I have listened to Shane & Shane’s music
for quite some time, but I have really enjoyed this song that they
just released. While the concept may be a simple one, I find that
sometimes it’s the simplest concepts that we need to be reminded of. We may be
fighting a battle, but at the end of the day, He has already won (1 Corinthians 15:57 and
John 16:33). I love songs like this because it gives us a chance to sing it as an anthem
declaring the promises we have in Christ. You may have heard me say this before, but
worship is an active experience not a passive one. I may not know what battles you are
facing, but I encourage you to play this song in your car or house, sing it from your
heart, and let it stir and encourage your faith. Christ has defeated death and the grave,
so let us seek Him and rejoice like never before (Revelation 1:18 and Romans 6:23).
Happy Easter!
Robert W. Costa, Director Of Modern Worship
TRADITIONAL WORSHIP MODERN WORSHIP LIVESTREAM
Saturday - 6:00 p.m.
Sunday - 11:00 a.m. Sunday - 9:30 a.m. & 11:00 a.m.
Sunday - 8:00 a.m. & 9:30 a.m.
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Service
Praise Report
A special thank you to Wolf Cub Scout Pack 252 for all their hard work. They packed
57 boxes in 40 minutes! Great effort and so appreciated!
Community Wide Food Drive-Sponsored by The Macomb Charitable Foundation
This “Drive Up & Drop Off” Food Drive is scheduled for Saturday, May 6. Food may be dropped off at St.
Isidore Catholic Church located at 23 Mile Rd and Romeo Plank between 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. Specifically
hoping for items: cereal, pancake mix & syrup, canned fruits, vegetables, tuna and chicken, boxed rice or
potatoes, peanut butter & jelly, dessert mixes, pasta and pasta sauce. Volunteers are needed to sort, date
check, and store food at the pantry located at 24125 26 Mile Rd between 12:00 p.m.-
2:00 p.m. Please consider volunteering for this event by emailing Karen at
karenwiegand@gmail.com.
USPS Food Drive
The Postal Carriers Food Drive is Saturday, May 13. This is our biggest food drive
for the year. Volunteers are needed 12:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m. to pick up food from the
post office, date check cans, sort and put food on shelves. Please mark your
calendar and contact Karen at karenwiegand@gmail.com to volunteer.
Are you a Thrivent Member?
Did you know all Thrivent members can apply for two Action Grants per year (valued
at $250 each) and your Thrivent Choice Dollars can be directed to Hope for the Hungry Pantry. Whether it’s
an Action Grant or Choice Dollars, we’ll put your donation to good use by purchasing food, supplies, and
equipment. If you have questions or need assistance, please contact your Thrivent representative or Karen
Foust at karenwiegand@gmail.com
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
Truck Unloading: April 5 and April 19 from 9:30 a.m.- 10:30 a.m.
Food Distribution: April 6 from 4:30 p.m.-7:00 p.m. and April 20 from 11:30 a.m.-2:00 p.m. Volunteers
may be asked to prepare produce boxes, bag frozen items, help load cars and clean areas.
Apartment Deliveries: April 1 help is needed to pack and deliver food to two local apartment
complexes.
Packing Boxes is always available for families, teams, groups, or individuals. Most Mondays and
Wednesdays from 6:15 p.m.-7:15 p.m. are currently available, but arrangements must be made in
advance.
If you would like to volunteer or need more information, please contact me or
visit hopeforthehungrypantry.org.
Yours in Christ,
Karen Foust, Chairperson
(586) 491-0652 or karenwiegand@gmail.com
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Are you missing something?
There are dishes, pans, etc. from
various activities that have been left
in the church kitchen for quite some
time now. If you are missing one
such item, could you pick it up as
soon as possible as we have no
area to store them without getting
damaged or broken? Thank you,
Women’s Ministry
Are you a Kroger
Shopper?
Kroger shoppers who
are enrolled in the
Community Rewards program can
help groups at St. Peter Macomb by
linking their Plus Card Rewards to a
specific organization. Currently,
there are three groups benefiting
from this program: Hope For The
Hungry Pantry, St. Peter Lutheran
WOMEN’S MINISTRY PRE-MOTHER’S DAY
SCRIP and St. Peter Student
PIE/BAKE SALE
Ministry. Please consider helping
When: Weekend of April 29 and 30 (after services) one of these groups grow their
ministry by following the steps at
Where: Fellowship Hall – south side stpetermacomb.com > In The Know.
All proceeds are designated to go towards repairing the
upstairs bathroom in the parsonage. Recycling Dumpsters: We have been
receiving calls that our recycling
You can always make a donation towards this project
dumpster at His Rock is quite often full.
anytime by picking up one of the green “Giving Tree”
We have a second dumpster labeled for
envelopes located on the Welcome Center desk and
recycling behind the school near the blue
taking it to the church office.
canopy. Please use this one if the one at
Thank you, His Rock is full. Please do not leave
Women’s Ministry Board recycling outside of the bin.
Help! The Christian Growth Board needs your help! We need volunteers to help clean up the doughnuts
and coffee after the 11:00 a.m. service on Sundays. (Approximate time is 12:30 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.) If you can
spare some time to keep this service rolling, we would appreciate your help!
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Christian Growth Board Members:
Beth LaFave - (586) 260-1577 - balafave@yahoo.com, Liz Lee - (586) 623-7100 - Lizboik@yahoo.com, Lisa
Ventimiglio (586) 405-9272 - lventimiglio@splcs.net
Sign up here: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/60b0f45a9ac22a3fd0-sunday
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Easter Egg Hunt Volunteers Needed! The Christian Growth Board needs volunteers
for the annual Easter egg hunt. We need volunteers to help with welcoming guests, handing out gift
bags, serving cookies and refreshments, Easter egg hunt, and pictures.
When: Saturday, April 1
Where: St. Peter Macomb Gym
Volunteer Time: 8:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. (set up) or 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. (running events) or
12:00 p.m.-2:00 p.m. (clean up)
The event runs from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Please see the sign up link here or at stpetermacomb.com to pick a spot or two to help make this
event a success!
Contact the Christian Growth Board Members with questions or concerns:
Lisa Ventimiglio lventimiglio@splcs.net
Larry Tilney eggman63@icloud.com
ATTENTION HIGH SCHOOL SENIORS AND Easter Breakfast Volunteers Needed!
SYNODICAL COLLEGE STUDENTS: The St.
Peter College Scholarship Fund has been The Christian Growth Board needs your help! We
established to give financial assistance to men are blessed to offer an Easter Breakfast on April 9
and women of our congregation who are - Easter morning! We are in need of volunteers to
preparing to enter into the work of our Lord. To help set up, serve, and clean up the breakfast in
be eligible for this aid, the applicant must be a the Fellowship Hall from 5:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
communicant member of St. Peter Lutheran Please click here or go to stpetermacomb.com to
Church and a student in a Concordia College or sign up for a spot to help serve.
seminary, in one of the following
Head to the Fellowship Hall Kitchen when you
programs: Pastoral training, Deaconess, Lay
arrive and ask for Lisa Ventimiglio or Larry Tilney.
Ministry, Teacher or Director of Christian
Education. If you wish to apply for this aid, If you have any questions or concerns, please let
applications are available in the Church Office. us know! We look forward to serving with you.
This is separate from any other scholarships that
are offered. The deadline for applying is Lisa Ventimiglio lventimiglio@splcs.net
June 15. & Larry Tilney ltd5xb@sbcglobal.net
Adopt-a-Road Spring Cleanup April 15 We will be cleaning up the roads (weather permitting) on
Saturday, April 15, starting at 9:00 a.m. St. Peter is responsible for Romeo Plank from 23 to 25 mile
and 24 Mile between Romeo Plank and Hayes. Clean up is twice a year. Please consider helping
with this project – the more people we have, the less time it takes to complete. We provide the
orange bags and vests for the workers. We will meet in the south parking lot by the Preschool
entrance at 9:00 a.m.
Noah hours are available for LHN students. We will reschedule if the weather is not in our favor.
Questions? Contact Robin & Larry Boeling at boeling@att.net or call (248)842-3051
7
LWML: We are once again collecting the
following items for the Wellness Kits for Memorial Offerings
Lutheran World Relief:
Bath-size bars of soap In loving memory of Al Rushton,
Bath-size towels (new or gently used) a contribution has been given to:
Church Ministry by Ronald Butzu,
Adult tooth brushes Timothy Dunham, Brian Halliwill
Combs
In loving memory of Clifford Stade,
Metal nail clippers a contribution has been given to:
Church Ministry by Jim and Joyce Bennett,
If you wish to donate any of these items, you Terry Davis, Richard and Donna DeVriendt, Roy
may deposit them into the bin marked and Lois Geer, Tim and Linda Klein,
Lutheran World Relief in the Church Coat Vince and Jorga Ropp, Mark and Linda Schwark,
Room off of the Narthex. Roy and Joyce Schwark, Jeff and
Shawn Whittey, Paul and Diane Wright
Note: We will continue collecting used Debt Reduction by Paul and Melissa Stade
postage stamps, lotions, soaps, shampoos, The Giving Tree by Bruce and Evelyn Haley
etc. These are also deposited into the
appropriate drawers in the Church Coat
Room. These items are sent to “Stamps for Thank Offerings
Wounded Warriors” and Samaritan’s Purse
(Shoebox Ministry). In thanksgiving and celebration of Joyce
Kraatz’s birthday,
If you have questions regarding any of the a contribution has been given to:
information, please contact Joyce Schwark, Missions and Outreach (Honduras)
St. Peter LWML Rep. at (586) 524-9328. by Tim and Milissa Spry
Thank you!
DID YOU KNOW that you can remember a
Thank You...
special occasion or loved one by purchasing THANK YOU to everyone who supported our Lenten
flowers for the front of Church? Maybe it's a Suppers. Our two seminarians, Brandon Bettcher and
birthday, anniversary, baptism, wedding, or just Jason von de Lage, really appreciate the monetary
a special day to honor someone. support that they receive from St. Peter. Also, a huge
thank you to everyone who was involved in preparing
Please sign up in the Church Office. It's easy and serving the dinners. A lot of volunteer time was
to do and it will be noted in the weekly bulletin. given and it is sincerely appreciated! You are all a
The cost is $25. Checks made payable to: blessing to our congregation!
St. Peter Women's Ministry.
Thanks to all St. Peter and community members who
donated to our American Red Cross Blood Drive on
Questions? Please call the Church Office.
Sunday, March 19. You may be interested to know
that 42 donors were screened and 40 pints were
collected! Many area hospital patients including some
of our own members have been helped by the
generosity of our St. Peter community. We are
thankful for the able assistance of Lillian, Jeanette,
Ruthann, Katelyn, Jacob M, and Jacob C in making
this drive a big success. Praise God for lives being
saved through your generosity! Blessings, Paula
Hoegemeyer and Ann Meerschaert
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Connection
Wednesday Women In The Word Bible Study
Women In The Word Bible Study
will meet each Wednesday in April (except
April 5 of Holy Week - no meeting).
9:30 a.m.-11:00 a.m.
Enter Door #28 (Church Office)
Contact: Karen Gluski (586) 207-6201
gludog2003@yahoo.com
For more information about current and upcoming
Bible studies and small groups, please visit
stpetermacomb.com
“Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with
thanksgiving.” Colossians 4:2
Moms in Prayer- Moms…and women! Come and join us each week as
we pray for our children, schools, and community. Groups meet Mondays
from 7:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m. (Zoom), Tuesdays in-person from 8:30 a.m.-
9:30 a.m. at His Rock (doors open at 8:00 a.m.) and Wednesdays from
9:00 a.m.-10:00 a.m. (Zoom). Please contact Kelly Chirco or Nicki Wargo (nwargo@splcs.net) for
more information.
Men and dad prayer warriors? We are looking for a leader for a Dads in Prayer group. Please
contact Nicki Wargo if you are interested (nwargo@splcs.net).
A Bible Study of 1, 2, & 3 John and Jude led by Terry Davis is held in the Fellowship Hall on
Sundays. This Bible class will end on April 30. All are welcome!
LGBT Family and Friends Support Group Do you have a family
member, loved one, or have an acquaintance with someone who
Our next New Member Class is
is not engaging in a relationship by God’s design? Do you
scheduled to begin on April 11. If
struggle with how to interact with them, not wanting to judge
you have questions, please contact
others but to show God’s love and just meet them where they are
Frieda in the Church Office at (586)
at? Then the Family and Friends of LGBT support group is for
781-3434. If you would like to sign you! We will meet tentatively on the third Thursday of each
up, go to stpetermacomb.com. month at 7:30 p.m. in the Small Conference Room in the
Administration Wing. For questions, please call Carol Poterek at
(586) 566-3785.
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GriefShare will be wrapping up the most recent 13-week session on Tuesday, April 4, at 6:30 p.m. and on
Thursday morning, April 6, at 10 a.m. GriefShare will begin the next 13-week session on May 9, at 6:30
p.m. This session will meet through the summer and end on August 8. These sessions are for those who
have lost a dear loved one and wish to heal from the devastating grief they suffer from. Through the videos,
discussion and workbook, the Lord assists in the process of healing from grief. Please consider joining this
helpful group if you wish to begin the process from mourning your loved one, to joy once again in your
heart.
Loss of a Spouse will be offered once again prior to the start of the next 13-week GriefShare session. This
session will be offered on April 30 at 2:00 p.m. Please park on the Romeo Plank side of the Church and
enter into the Church Office through Door #28. We will meet in the Large Conference Room. Please feel
free to join us and also bring along any support person you may wish to join you. Like GriefShare, we will
have a video, discussion, and a very special workbook for you. This book offers several days of suggestions
to get you through the very tough, emotional days you will face. Please consider joining us for this one day
session in hopes of experiencing the beginning of the healing process.
NURSING HOME MINISTRY Everyone is We’re Hiring: St. Peter is looking to hire an
welcome to join us on the fourth Thursday of experienced bookkeeper. A flexible schedule and
each month as we gather at The Orchards – benefits may be available. If interested, please
Armada Village to sing and have a short connect with our Business Manager, Diane
devotion with the residents. We begin at the Hernden, at (586) 781-3434 ext. 119.
assisted living building (Pineview) and then
walk over to the skilled nursing building. NEW
TIMES: We are now starting at 10:30 a.m.
Afterwards, we plan to go to Papa’s Restaurant APRIL 2023 WOMEN’S MINISTRY
in downtown Armada for lunch at noon. Please SPRING RALLY INVITATION
call Lois Bellhorn (586) 770-3002 if you have
any questions. No need to RSVP. We’d love to To: All Ladies
have you join us as we share God’s love in When: April 29
Word and song! Place: Trinity, Utica
Time: Beginning at 9:00 a.m. with breakfast
Erwin Aufdemberge and the Michigan-Ohio Guest Speaker: Pastor Matthew Heise, Executive
Chorale presents Rejoice, Give Thanks, Director of Lutheran Heritage.
and Sing! Including organ, brass, strings,
flute and oboe. Our “Gifts from the Heart” project this year will be
putting together Wellness Kits. Needed are:
Sunday, April 30 at 4:00 p.m. toothbrushes, nail clippers, combs, and bars of
soap. If you could bring one or two of these items, it
St. Peter’s Lutheran Church
23000 Gratiot Ave would be appreciated. Rally usually runs until 11:30
Eastpointe, MI 48021 a.m. or noon. Ask a friend to come with you!
2023 Church Directories: Available at the Sunday desk (located near the Welcome Center) on
Sunday mornings, or you can stop in during the week to pick one up at the front desk of our Church
Office area.
Benefit to raise funds for building a new women’s house at Peacemakers International on Chene
Street in Detroit: This women’s house will be named, “Mercy House.” The benefit for this project will be on
April 29 at 11:00 a.m. It will be held at the Shelby Gardens Banquet Center in Shelby Twp. The cost of tickets
will be $60 per person, or $500 for a table of 10. You can go to peacemakersinternational.org to purchase
tickets and also find information about Sponsorship Packages. If you have any questions, please feel free to
contact Rhonda Fiebelkorn at: (586) 925-2203 or rhondaf85@hotmail.com. Thank you in advance for your
prayers and support of this wonderful outreach ministry, known as Peacemakers International on Chene
Street in Detroit. May God continue to richly bless you and all of your family! In His service,
Rhonda Fiebelkorn.
10Easter Egg Hunt: Saturday, April 1 from 10:00 a.m.- DLS IN CONCERT: This spring season, the Detroit
12:00 p.m. Lutheran Singers are pleased to present their concert
series featuring the “Requiem” by John Leavitt. This
This event is perfect for families and kids of all ages, requiem is unlike the traditional Latin setting in that it
centers around the joys of life, the promises of hope, and
and promises to be a fun-filled and memorable
an infectious urge to keep singing! Along with the requiem
experience. The first 500 kids to arrive will receive a are several beautiful settings of texts tracing our lifelong
special goodie bag filled with treats and surprises, journeys and the promise of Easter.
making this event all the more exciting.
Saturday, April 22 at 7:00 p.m.
In addition to the Easter Egg Hunt, there will be Rosedale Gardens Presbyterian Church
plenty of other activities to enjoy. You can mingle Sunday, April 23 at 3:00 p.m.
with the Easter Bunny and take a picture, have some St. John Lutheran Church—Fraser
fun with goofy props, and even color a picture.
Saturday, April 29 at 7:00 p.m.
Refreshments such as cookies and lemonade will be
St. Paul’s Lutheran Church—St. Clair Shores
available to keep you fueled and hydrated throughout
the event. Sunday, April 30 at 3:00 p.m.
Lutheran Church of the Redeemer—Birmingham
This is a great opportunity to spend quality time with Tickets are $15 general admission, $10 seniors and
your family, meet new friends, and experience the students over 12. They may be purchased online at
joys of spring. Come on down to St. Peter and join www.detroitlutheransingers.com or at the door.
the fun! You can enter through the Preschool
entrance (Door #13). Don’t forget to bring your
baskets and be ready to hunt for
eggs! With so many exciting
activities, this is one Easter Egg Hunt
you will not want to miss!
Stellar Vacation Bible School
July 17-20, 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
Lutheran Luncheon Club 75th Anniversary Banquet: at St. Peter Macomb
Once a year the Lutheran Luncheon Club recognizes and
honors a Lutheran Layman of the Year. The honoree is Kindergarten-5th Grade
selected from candidates nominated by club members or (for 2023-2024 school year)
their pastors. He is selected on the basis of his service to
the community, his congregation, and the church at large.
Volunteers needed!
He is honored at the Club’s annual banquet. With this year
being the Club’s 75th anniversary, our LLC Board is (9th grade students-adults)
planning to honor all past Laymen of the Year. Save the
date – April 23. We hope to see you all there! Please Registration:
contact Marty Moro at morom3@yahoo.com or go to vbspro.events/p/events/6b25db
lutheranluncheonclub.org/banquet/ for more information.
Stay Healthy Exercise: Are you feeling tired, stiff or just not yourself? We have the answer. Join some spiritual
men and women in a morning of exercise and motivation. People of all ages are welcome and can benefit.
Shannon, our instructor, tailors the class to the audience. We work on our hearts, minds, and souls as we stretch,
lift weights, and raise our heart rate slowly through low impact, easy to follow movements. Grab water, weights (2
to 5 pounds), and a mat, and join us each Monday morning from 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. We will help you feel
better from your head to your toes! Classes are $5/session on a drop-in basis and are held in the Church Narthex.
Enter through Door #1 on the southeast side of the Church. Note: We will not meet April 3 or 10 and will resume
on Monday, April 17. Contact Paula for more information hoegemeyer@att.net or (586) 322.2319.
Christian Yoga: Come join us for a faith filled gentle yoga experience. Becky will guide us through prayerful
meditation, stretching, and postures, embracing our mind, body, and spirit that God has given to us. All ages are
welcome Bring a yoga mat, water, and a joyful spirit for this class that will meet every Thursday from 4:15 p.m.–
5:15 p.m. in the Church Narthex. The cost is $10/ session drop in. Enter through Door #1 on the southeast side of
the Church. Please note the change in time. We will not meet Maundy Thursday, April 6. Contact Paula for
more information at hoegemeyer@att.net or (586) 322-2319.
11Education
Sunday
We are so blessed to have dedicated and devoted teachers and helpers in our Sunday
School. We all enjoy the beautiful students that attend our classes each Sunday. Our Sunday School
School always accepts new students throughout the Sunday School year.
March 5, our 3rd, 4th, 5th & 6th grade classes sang in Church at the 9:30 a.m. service, “There Is A
Name I Love To Hear!” March 12, our 3yr, 4yr, K, and 1st and 2nd grade classes sang in Church
at the 9:30 a.m. service, “Jesus Loves Me.” They all did a great job singing our songs of praise to
Jesus.
Our mission project, “Bible Books for Families in Ukraine “ is well underway. Each week our
donations increase, every $5.00 collected makes it possible for a Bible book to be purchased for a
child in the Ukraine that has lost most all of their possessions due to the on going war in the
country.
This month we look forward to processing with palm branches through our Church on Palm Sunday, April 2.
There is no Sunday School on Easter Sunday as we all celebrate the Lord’s Resurrection with our church family
and at home with family and friends.
On April 23, our entire Sunday School gathers in Kaiser Hall to meet with Pastor Kurt. This is a time where the
students get to meet with Pastor and ask any questions they may have for him. We all enjoy having time with
Pastor and I know he really appreciates the time with us sharing all about his job here at St. Peter and God’s Word.
May all of our St. Peter Church family have a Blessed Easter!
Yours in Christ,
Pat Losey
Sunday School Superintendent
STUDENT MINISTRIES
Join us every Sunday, 3:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. at His Rock for 8th–12th grade Bible Study and
fun! For more information contact studentministries@splcs.net.
Thank you to everyone who donated to our Invest-In-Youth Fundraiser! We appreciate all
the support!
We had 12 youth and 5 parents help out at the Hope for the Hungry Food pantry on Monday,
March 13. Thank you to everyone at St. Peter who donated items for the pantry. It was so great to be able to
help out a wonderful ministry in our community.
No Recharge on April 2 or 9. Enjoy spring break! We will be back at His Rock on April 23!
Senior Youth Event: Sunday, April 16, 3:00 p.m.- 5:00 p.m. Cost is $29.99 and will include all the activities at
Urban Air, but not food. We need to know how many are attending. Please text (586) 615-4186 or email
studentministries@splcs.net to let us know.
Coming up in May: Service Opportunity: Spring Cleanup at His Rock
Camp Arcadia June 11-17: All kids entering 8th grade– 10th grade in the fall. Sign up directly with Camp
Arcadia at www.camp-arcadia.com. If you child enjoyed confirmation camp, they will love this opportunity to
spend more time at this beautiful place. Bernadette VanOverbeke is working on transportation to camp. If at
least 25 kids sign up with her, she can arrange a mini coach bus to get the kids there and back. Cost is $70 per
camper and comes with WiFi and a chauffeur! That is a great deal when you think about the 8-hour drive to and
from camp and cost of gas. Please contact her at (248) 514-9282 to sign up!
12HISTORY CORNER
It is important to remember that St. Peter History is not meant to show how great St. Peter is, but how amazing
God is as He works through His Word and Sacraments among us. History is His story. Our History is a Ministry that
proclaims His great deeds to future generations.
Below is an Easter message written by Pastor Harm for the St. Peter newsletter (April 1982).
Article submitted by: Dianne Wetzel, Historical Committee Member
13Life Team
APRIL IS AUTISM AWARENESS MONTH
Excerpted from a Focus on the Family article from April 22, 2021 by Robyn Chambers
“Your child is on the spectrum – Asperger’s, Autism, 504, IEP.” As these words swirled around me, all I could think was
STOP! I wasn’t given any time to process the news, much less understand and comprehend what all those words meant.
Not even knowing about April being Autism Awareness Month or anything else, I just wanted the specialist to stop telling
me all the worst cases scenarios and start telling me how I could support my grandson.
That day began a journey for my family and my grandson, Tristin. Twelve years ago, my husband and I were granted
permanent custody of our granddaughter and grandson. These amazing people came into our lives full-time. I can say it’s
been a journey of joy, fun, challenge, heartache and love–sometimes all in the same day! They came to us from an
unsafe environment. Shortly after Tristin came into our home, we knew he was struggling. This little person was scared of
going outside, scared of swimming and did not like being touched. My heart broke every time I tried to do the “normal”
things, and he resisted each and every time.
Not being able to hold or cuddle Tristin was devasting. I didn’t know how to soothe him.
Even though the diagnosis was a punch to the gut, it was my line in the sand. It drove me to become Tristin’s biggest
advocate. I was and still am determined that he would not be defined by his disability. Schooling was a challenge. Yet, he
wanted so desperately to learn, play and belong. We had teachers tell me he couldn’t participate because he didn’t
understand. Therefore, they would sit him in a corner. I was furious, and the school became my lunchtime errand almost
every day. However, we also had teachers that went above and beyond to challenge Tristin to do more. I am so thankful
for those teachers. They saw my grandson as a person, not a disability! During those times, I watched Tristin grow and
thrive!
One of his counselors would email me every week and give me little notes of encouragement:
I just wanted to let you know that Tristin is having a great day! He seems to be having a lot of fun. Every time I see him in
the hallway, there are kids saying hi to him! It has been awesome.
Each time I received a note like this, my grandmama’s heart would burst with joy. What a great reminder and awareness
that our kids with autism need, crave and desire to be encouraged. I’m so thankful for the support we received from our
specialists. We learned so much during those first few months of PT, OT, and Speech Therapy. Tristin responded so well
to every therapy, and within six months, he was eating solids, running outside and being a “normal” boy. You may ask
why I add quotes to normal? I don’t care for the word “normal.” Each of us has our own normal. As an advocate, everyone
learns normal isn’t determined by a set of stats – but by each of those we serve. Learn who they are and love them just
the way they are! Each of us is made in the image of God.
“God created humanity in His own image. He created them male and female in the image of God.” Genesis 1:27
Has life been easy with Tristin–no. But worth it–YES. The day he initiated a hug was one of the best days of my life! He is
kind, and he has a servant’s heart. We will see him graduate from high school in May. In addition, he will also have a
certificate of completion for construction and will begin work in the summer.
You may not have a child with Autism, but I’m sure you or your family know someone. My challenge to you – get
involved. Learn how to support that family, teach your children to be kind and to be inclusive. If you see a teacher going
above and beyond, celebrate that! Leave them notes or a gift card; let them know they are seen and appreciated!
“Whatever you did for the least of these brothers of mine, you did for Me.” Matthew 25:40.
For Autism Facts from the National Autism Association, please visit: https://nationalautismassociation.org/resources/
autism-fact-sheet/
© 2021 by Focus on the Family. All rights reserved. First published on FocusOnTheFamily.com in April.
For Life Team questions, comments or concerns, please contact Carol at carolpoterek@gmail.com.
lutheransforlife.org
www.lflmi.org
14ST. PETER’S VALUES
Our Mission Statement:
To glorify God by
Rev. Kurt Wenzelburger Rev. Mark Arendell Rev. Craig Meyer
Senior Pastor Pastor Emeritus Pastor Emeritus making and growing
disciples of Jesus
Christ
Matthew 28:19-20
Go therefore and make
disciples of all nations,
Mr. Tim Leinberger Mrs. Sandra LaPerriere Mrs. Char Hohnstadt
Principal Assistant Principal Interim Preschool Director baptizing them in the
name of the Father, of
the Son and of the Holy
Spirit, teaching them to
observe all that I have
commanded you. And
behold, I am with you
always, to the end of age.
Ms. Diane Hernden Mr. Robert W. Costa Mr. Charles Russell
Business Manager Director of Modern Director of
Worship and Communications Traditional Worship
Articles for May Keynotes must be submitted before 4 p.m. on April 15.
Please submit all articles for consideration by email to Allison Tebay - atebay@splcs.net.
All submissions should include your contact information. Please submit articles without
formatting (table, text boxes, etc.) in a Word document. Thank you!
Worship Service Times:
Saturday 6:00 p.m. Traditional
Sunday 8:00 a.m. Traditional
Sunday 9:30 a.m. Traditional
Sunday 11:00 a.m. Modern
17051 24 Mile Road, Macomb, Michigan 48042 Please visit StPeterMacomb.com to see other
Church: (586) 781-3434 School: (586) 781-9296 opportunities to worship through Sunday School,
StPeterMacomb.com Bible studies, small groups and more!
St. Peter Lutheran Church and School is a member congregation of The LCMS.
15You can also read
