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Worship Nursery – Attention parents of our youngest members, we are searching to hire staff for the worship nursery.  Until a new staff is in place, you are welcome to use the Nursery or the Cry Room with your children.  If they play with any of the toys, please leave them on one of the tables so that we may sanitize them for the next week.  Thanks for your understanding.

Sunday Morning Fellowship – Thank you to today’s host: Card Ministry & Rejoicing Spirits

Help wanted!

1.  Guitar players for contemporary worship services and/or Rejoicing Spirits worship services
2.  Head Usher (once a month at either service)
3. New committee members for committees such as Property, G.O.D.’s Team, Fellowship, etc.
4.  Ring handbells
5.  Join Union Chorale

Please share your talents with our church family.  For more information or to help, please call the church office.

Spread the News!  Our congregation is opening a new preschool for the 2012-13 school year.  The Learning Ark Christian Preschool of Union Lutheran Church is committed to providing a Christian education in a safe and loving environment.  It is a place where children can develop academically, physically, emotionally and spiritually by experiencing the Gospel in an educational setting.  Join us for open houses on February 13 from 6:30-8:00 PM or February 14 from 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM.  (Snow dates February 15 from 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM and 6:30-8:00 PM).  Log on to our website (ulclv.org) and click on the preschool logo to find all the exciting possibilities for your preschoolers.  Don’t forget to download a brochure and registration form too!  If you have any questions or for more information, please call the church office at 610-767-6884.

The Learning Ark Christian Preschool – We are pleased to announce that registration is open.  If you would like to register your child for the 2012/2013 school year, please complete a registration form and return it to the church office along with the registration fee.  Checks should be made payable to Union Lutheran Church.  Forms will be available in the office and online at www.ulclv.org

Parent and Me Sunday School Class will be held on Sundays, beginning on February 26 and continuing through April 4, at 9:15 AM in room 204.  The class is open to all children who have turned three after October 2011 or will be three before September 2012.  We ask that a parent remain with their child each week to avoid any separation anxiety.  To RSVP, please call the church office or email office@ulclv.org so we can be prepared to welcome your child.

EYG Movie Night/Volleyball has been rescheduled to January 29^th at 6:30 PM.  We will not meet on February 5^th, since that is super bowl Sunday.  As usual we will show a G rated animated movie with snacks provided for the kids.  Volleyball will be held in the Family Life Center for those adults that would like to join in the game.  Hope to see you there!  David and Kandy Lang

Funsters – Thursday, February 9, Potluck Lunch & Storytelling – All Funsters and other interested parties are invited to gather at 11:30 AM at the church for lunch and a presentation by Kathy Long on the “Memory of Hess’s” (Allentown’s iconic Hess Brothers’ Department Store).  Kathy is a well known area storyteller.  Please let us know if you plan to attend (in case we need to cancel because of weather, etc.) – Stangle’s 610-261-0416/funsters.ulc@verizon.net.  Speaker donations accepted

How many bowls can you fill with one empty bowl?  Help us fill empty bowls for World Hunger by joining us at our 2^nd annual Souper Bowl Soup and Dessert contest, Sunday, February 5 following the 10:45 AM service.  If you’ve already purchased a bowl you can pick it up then and use it for your admission to the luncheon.  If you haven’t purchased a bowl you can still join us.  The cost is $12.00 per person or $25.00 per family.  If you are interested in coming call Cathy (570-943-3045) or the church office so we are sure to have enough soup, bread and desserts.  You can purchase tickets at the door.  You can also contribute by making a crock pot of your favorite soup or a tray of your favorite dessert.  They will be entered into a contest and prizes will be awarded for the best soup and dessert.  So if you have favorite recipes for either soup or dessert for this tasty event or can donate bread, either homemade or bought, call Cathy Smith.

Our next Book Club selection is The Birth of Venus by Sarah Dunant.  This book focuses on Alessandra, a young girl of the Renaissance, her relationship with a young painter brought to decorate the chapel walls of the family’s Florentine palazzo, her love of God, and her arranged marriage to a wealthy, much older man.  Set against the turbulent fall of the Medici state and the suppression imposed by the fundamentalist monk Savonarola, who seized religious and political control of Florence.  Join us Sunday, March 25 @ 9:15 AM to discuss this captivating story of love, art, religion and power.

Scouting Award Program – “God and Church” will be led by our Pastor for Scouts in grades 6-8 this spring.  It will be done over three 2½ hour sessions on Thursday evenings from 6:30-9:00 PM.

The dates are April 12^th, April 26^th and May 10^th.  Interested Scouts should register by contacting the church office and acquire the Student Book prior to the first session.

Do you have a love for animals?  Would you like to help out a homeless pet?  The youth of our church will be collecting items needed for the Lehigh County Humane Society and we need your help.  There is a box in the Gathering Space to put your items.  If you want to donate a monetary gift or gift card you can drop it off or send it to the church office.  The items they are requesting are: White and colored 8½x11 in paper, 9×13 in clasp envelopes, expanding file folders, postage stamps, towels, sheets, blankets, paper towels, batteries, wet and dry dog/puppy and cat/kitten food, small litter boxes, non clumping cat litter, Kong toys, cat and dog scoopers, triple antibiotic ointment, dust pans, HE laundry detergent, bleach, heavy duty 33 gallon trash bags and gas gift cards.  So please won’t you help us out and make an animal happy.

Nursery Caregiver Positions Open at Union Lutheran – Union Lutheran is looking for a pool of paid Nursery Caregivers to provide childcare during the late worship service from Rally Day through Pentecost.  The Nursery Caregivers will work in a team of two from 10:30 AM until approximately noon.  Special services or occasions may require additional scheduling of the nursery.  Applicants must be at least 18 years old.  Some key qualifications/skills include: cleared criminal history and child-abuse background check, understanding of basic first aid, current certification in child infancy CPR or willing to obtain certification.  Twenty dollars ($20) per week will be given to each attending Nursery Caregiver.  The Nursery Caregiver job description is posted in the Gathering Space hallway or can be requested from the church office.  If interested, please submit a resume to the church office as soon as possible.

Have you stopped at the Fair Trade Cart lately?  It’s stocked with lots of products, some old favorites and some new items — especially milk chocolate bars and dark and milk chocolate hearts.

Inclement Weather Notification – You can check our website (www.ulclv); listen to B104FM or WJCS (89.3 FM); call the church office for a message; or, for severe weather information watch WFMZ Channel 8 on Service Electric Cable.  Every attempt is made to hold scheduled events and worship—however, safety must be first 

Important!!  If you or a member of your family is in the hospital, please let us know.  In order for the pastor to provide the best possible care, if you are admitted to Lehigh Valley Hospital, please personally contact the pastor or the church office so that the pastor can visit you or your family member.  At St Luke’s Hospital, admitted patients will be asked if they belong to a faith community and if they wish to have their clergy notified of their hospital admission.  The pastoral care chaplains will make contact with the appropriate clergy member when requested.

Tuesday, April 24, – Jonah at Sight & Sound Theater and dinner at Shady Maple.  Carpool or travel on your own to the Sight & Sound Theater in Lancaster for Jonah at 1:00 PM.  Cost $49.  After the show all those interested will meet at the Shady Maple Smorgasbord for dinner.  Call 800-377-1277 for theater tickets.  Shows fill up quickly.  There is also a Back Stage Tour available (10:00 AM for $19).  For directions/more information contact Jake Hammond at (610) 799-0192. 

We are up and running.  Your Stephen Ministry team is very busy.  We meet the 1^st and 3^rd Tuesday of each month for our supervision meeting and continuing education.  If anyone in our congregation is going through a life crisis, you don’t have to walk alone.  You may have a Stephen Minister to walk alongside of you.  Contact Pastor Moore to make arrangements to receive a Stephen Minister.  Also, we are making plans for our Spring Stephen Ministry Class which will begin March 3.  If you are interested in joining our ministry, applications may be found on the round table in the Gathering Space.  We ask you to fill out the application so we may schedule an interview.  Also, materials must be ordered.  We invite members of ULC to join us in this vital ministry.

Sign-up now to host Sunday Morning Fellowship.  Ask a friend (or two) to partner as host/hostess with you.  All you need to do is set up coffee, tea, and cold drinks, and clean up afterwards.  The Fellowship Committee will provide cookies.  Please help us continue this time of friendship and fellowship.

Help wanted!

Guitar players for contemporary worship services and/or Rejoicing Spirits worship services

Head Usher (once a month at either service)

New committee members for committees such as Property, G.O.D.’s Team, Fellowship, etc.

Ring handbells

Join Union Chorale

Please share your talents with our church family.  For more information or to help, please call the church office.

How many bowls can you fill with one empty bowl?  Help us fill empty bowls for World Hunger by joining us at our 2^nd annual Souper Bowl Soup and Dessert contest, Sunday, February 5 following the 10:45 AM service.  If you’ve already purchased a bowl you can pick it up then and use it for your admission to the luncheon.  If you haven’t purchased a bowl you can still join us.  The cost is $12.00 per person or $25.00 per family.  If you are interested in coming call Cathy (570-943-3045) or the church office so we are sure to have enough soup, bread and desserts.  You can purchase tickets at the door.  You can also contribute by making a crock pot of your favorite soup or a tray of your favorite dessert.  They will be entered into a contest and prizes will be awarded for the best soup and dessert.  So if you have favorite recipes for either soup or dessert for this tasty event or can donate bread, either homemade or bought, call Cathy Smith.

Parent and Me Sunday School Class will be held on Sundays, beginning on February 26 and continuing through April 4, at 9:15 AM in room 204.  The class is open to all children who have turned three after October 2011 or will be three before September 2012.  We ask that a parent remain with their child each week to avoid any separation anxiety.  To RSVP, please call the church office or email office@ulclv.org so we can be prepared to welcome your child.

KFC Winter Session I - “God’s Winter Wonderland” – Winter is here…the air is crisp and cold, snowflakes are starting to fall and the stars seem to twinkle brighter than ever!  Come celebrate “God’s Winter Wonderland” with us!  During our time together we will learn about Epiphany, God’s Season of Light!  We have lots of yummy snacks, fun crafts and awesome songs to share!  Preschool “Mom and Me” meets Tuesdays or Wednesdays from 10:00-11:00 AM and Elementary Class (K- 4^th grade) on Wednesdays from 4:00-5:00 PM.  Registration forms are available at the church office or online at  HYPERLINK “http://www.ulclv.org” www.ulclv.org.  This session has begun.  However, your child can still join the class.  The cost is about $4.00 per class.

Did you notice a new offering envelope in your packet?  “Future Building Maintenance Projects” – a new offering envelope with a red border.  Why did we add a new giving opportunity to this year’s offering envelope packet?  Our beautiful worship facility is now over ten years old.  As with any property, maintenance is crucial.  Our Property Committee and Church Council are being proactive by raising funds for anticipated maintenance.  There are four envelopes in your packet, February, May, August and October.  If you have any questions about this new fund, please contact Cathy Shaffer.

Reminder – Last year we changed our email address to reflect our website address.  Please be sure to use the current address when you send email to the office.  The address is  HYPERLINK “mailto:office@ulclv.org” office@ulclv.org.  Please note also that Pastor Moore’s address is  HYPERLINK “mailto:pastor@ulclv.org” pastor@ulclv.org.

Parent and me teachers needed:  This is a class held for six Sudays (2/26 to 4/1) for children (who turned three after October 2011 or will be three before September 2012) and their parents.  Bible stories, crafts and supplies are all ready.  You would just do the presentation.  If you would like to help but can’t do all six Sundays, that is fine.  Just let us know what Sundays you can be there.  Please contact Cindy Pugh at 610-776-0451 or email at  HYPERLINK “mailto:softball8@rcn.com” softball8@rcn.com to help.

New members are received three times a year – in February, April, and October.  Prior to reception in the congregation, folks are asked to attend two orientation sessions and a reception with church leaders.  The sessions offer information about our faith and about our congregation’s ministry base.  The next sessions will be held on January 25^th & February 8^th from 7:00 – 9:00 PM with the reception with church leaders on February 12^th from 9:15 – 10:15 AM.  New members will be received into our church family on February 19^th at the 8:00 or 10:45 AM worship services.  To inquire about membership or to register for the Membership Orientation Sessions, contact the Church Office at 610-767-6884 or  HYPERLINK “mailto:office@ulclv.org” office@ulclv.org.

Our next Book Club selection is The Birth of Venus by Sarah Dunant.  This book focuses on Alessandra, a young girl of the Renaissance, her relationship with a young painter brought to decorate the chapel walls of the family’s Florentine palazzo, her love of God, and her arranged marriage to a wealthy, much older man.  Set against the turbulent fall of the Medici state and the suppression imposed by the fundamentalist monk Savonarola, who seized religious and political control of Florence.  Join us Sunday, March 25 @ 9:15 AM to discuss this captivating story of love, art, religion and power.

Nursery Caregiver Positions Open at Union Lutheran – Union Lutheran is looking for a pool of paid Nursery Caregivers to provide childcare during the late worship service from Rally Day through Pentecost.  The Nursery Caregivers will work in a team of two from 10:30 AM until approximately noon.  Special services or occasions may require additional scheduling of the nursery.  Applicants must be at least 18 years old.  Some key qualifications/skills include: cleared criminal history and child-abuse background check, understanding of basic first aid, current certification in child infancy CPR or willing to obtain certification.  Twenty dollars ($20) per week will be given to each attending Nursery Caregiver.  The Nursery Caregiver job description is posted in the Gathering Space hallway or can be requested from the church office.  If interested, please submit a resume to the church office as soon as possible.

Spread the News!  Our congregation is opening a new preschool for the 2012-13 school year.  The Learning Ark Christian Preschool of Union Lutheran Church is committed to providing a Christian education in a safe and loving environment.  It is a place where children can develop academically, physically, emotionally and spiritually by experiencing the Gospel in an educational setting.  Join us for open houses on February 13 from 6:30-8:00 PM or February 14 from 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM.  (Snow dates February 15 from 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM and 6:30-8:00 PM).  Log on to our website (ulclv.org) and click on the preschool logo to find all the exciting possibilities for your preschoolers.  Don’t forget to download a brochure and registration form too!  If you have any questions or for more information, please call the church office at 610-767-6884.

The Learning Ark Christian Preschool – We are pleased to announce that registration is open.  If you would like to register your child for the 2012/2013 school year, please complete a registration form and return it to the church office along with the registration fee.  Checks should be made payable to Union Lutheran Church.  Forms will be available in the office and online at  HYPERLINK “http://www.ulclv.org” www.ulclv.org

Bulletin & Flower Sponsors – Each week, we ask people to sponsor bulletins and flowers for the worship services.  Sign-up lists for 2012 are on the media center bulletin board.  Please sign up on that list or call Cheryll Kosar for bulletins (610-261-0242).  The cost for worship bulletins is $20.00 and children’s bulletins is $3.00.  We also need sponsors for the worship flowers.  The cost per vase is $15.00.  Please sign up on the bulletin board or call Linda Houser (610-799-2396).  (Please note: after the worship services, ALL of the vases of flowers will be delivered to homebound members of our congregation.)  Your sponsorship may be paid when you sign up or paid on the Sunday you are sponsoring.  Please use a pew envelope and indicate “bulletin or flower sponsor”

Do you have a love for animals?  Would you like to help out a homeless pet?  The youth of our church will be collecting items needed for the Lehigh County Humane Society and we need your help.  There is a box in the Gathering Space to put your items.  If you want to donate a monetary gift or gift card you can drop it off or send it to the church office.  The items they are requesting are: White and colored 8½x11 in paper, 9×13 in clasp envelopes, expanding file folders, postage stamps, towels, sheets, blankets, paper towels, batteries, wet and dry dog/puppy and cat/kitten food, small litter boxes, non clumping cat litter, Kong toys, cat and dog scoopers, triple antibiotic ointment, dust pans, HE laundry detergent, bleach, heavy duty 33 gallon trash bags and gas gift cards.  So please won’t you help us out and make an animal happy.

What is Stephen Ministry?  Stephen Ministry is a system through which members of ULC are trained and organized to help provide Christian care giving to members of our congregation and community.  This will multiply the amount of caring ministry ULC can provide by giving us a whole team of skilled caregivers who are equipped to bring Christ’s healing love to people who are grieving, in crisis, or experiencing other stresses in life.  We are recruiting both males and females for our 2012 class.  We are asking members of ULC to consider becoming part of our Stephen Ministry Team.  Please contact Joan Fredericks or Irene Folk and we will be glad to answer any of your questions.

Funsters – Thursday, February 9, Pot luck Lunch & Storytelling – All Funsters and other interested parties are invited to gather at 11:30 AM at the church for lunch and a presentation by Kathy Long on the “Memory of Hess’s” (Allentown’s iconic Hess Brothers’ Department Store). Kathy is a well known area storyteller.  Please let us know if you plan to attend (in case we need to cancel because of weather, etc.) – Stangle’s  HYPERLINK “mailto:610-261-0416/funsters.ulc@verizon.net” 610-261-0416/funsters.ulc@verizon.net.  Speaker donations accepted.

The Fair Trade Cart has been restocked with coffees, teas (including Rooibos) and hot chocolate mix.  Check out the milk chocolate bars, and milk and dark chocolate hearts.  Hint, hint – February 14 is Valentine’s Day.  Be sure to check out the assortment.

Important!!  If you or a member of your family is in the hospital, please let us know.  In order for the pastor to provide the best possible care, if you are admitted to Lehigh Valley Hospital, please personally contact the pastor or the church office so that the pastor can visit you or your family member.  At St Luke’s Hospital, admitted patients will be asked if they belong to a faith community and if they wish to have their clergy notified of their hospital admission.  The pastoral care chaplains will make contact with the appropriate clergy member when requested.

Inclement Weather Notification – You can check our website (www.ulclv); listen to B104FM or WJCS (89.3 FM); call the church office for a message; or, for severe weather information watch WFMZ Channel 8 on Service Electric Cable.  Every attempt is made to hold scheduled events and worship—however, safety must be first.

Sign-up now to host Sunday Morning Fellowship.  Ask a friend (or two) to partner as host/hostess with you.  All you need to do is set up coffee, tea, and cold drinks, and clean up afterwards.  The Fellowship Committee will provide cookies.  Please help us continue this time of friendship and fellowship.

Bulletin & Flower Sponsors – Each week, we ask people to sponsor bulletins and flowers for the worship services.  Sign-up lists for 2012 are on the media center bulletin board.  Please sign up on that list or call Cheryll Kosar for bulletins (610-261-0242).  The cost for worship bulletins is $20.00 and children’s bulletins is $3.00.  We also need sponsors for the worship flowers.  The cost per vase is $15.00.  Please sign up on the bulletin board or call Linda Houser (610-799-2396).  (Please note: after the worship services, ALL of the vases of flowers will be delivered to homebound members of our congregation.)  Your sponsorship may be paid when you sign up or paid on the Sunday you are sponsoring.  Please use a pew envelope and indicate “bulletin or flower sponsor”.

Help wanted!

1.  Guitar players for contemporary worship services and/or Rejoicing Spirits worship services
2.  Head Usher (once a month at either service)
3.  Run our Power Point presentation, on a rotating basis, during the Contemporary Worship service
4.  New committee members for committees such as Property, G.O.D.’s Team, Fellowship, etc.
5.  Ring handbells
6.  Join Union Chorale

Please share your talents with our church family.  For more information or to help, please call the church office.

Blanket Sunday: January 22^nd - Every year, Church World Service distributes thousands of blankets to the homeless and victims of severe storms in the United States and throughout the world as part of their Blanket Program.  You can be a part of this ministry by sponsoring a blanket(s) at a cost of $5.00 each.  Please put your donation in an envelope and either bring it to the church office or drop it in the offering plate.  If you would like to dedicate your donation in memory of or in honor of someone, please indicate on the back of the envelope.  Deadline for donations is January 15^th.  A list of donors will appear in the January 22^nd bulletin.

2^nd Annual Soup off for World Hunger - Join us for our 2^nd annual soup contest.  Due to lots of requests we’re adding a dessert contest.  If you’d like to order a hand thrown pottery bowl and haven’t ordered one yet, call Cathy.  The bowls will be made by the Baum School of Art.  They will be $12.00.  Once we know how many bowls need to be glazed (painted) we will schedule times for the glazing (painting).  The proceeds from the luncheon will go toward World Hunger.  Your bowl can be used as admission to the luncheon.  This event is planned for Sun., Feb. 5 following the 10:45 service.  Prizes for the best soup and dessert will be awarded.  If you’d like to make a crock of soup or a tray of deserts or bring a loaf of bread or have any questions contact Cathy Smith 570-943-3045.

Recycle your Christmas Cards – Do you have cards you do not want to save?  Bring them to church for our card ministry to use to make new cards.  Put the cards in the box in the Gathering Space.

Chicken Pot Pie Dinner – The Journeymen, the men’s ministry group of Union Lutheran Church, will hold their annual Chicken Pot Pie Dinner in the Family Life Center on Saturday, January 14, 2012 from 4:30-7:00 PM.  <The Snow Date will be January 28^th>  Discounted advance tickets can be purchased or in the church office during normal business hours.  Cost: adults-$8 advance; $10 at the door; children 12 and under-$5.  NO TICKETS WILL BE RESERVED.  Takeout will also be available.  A limited number of dinners will be sold, so buying tickets in advance is highly recommended or you may miss out!  This is the Journeymen’s most popular fundraising event of the year, and all proceeds will be donated to a charitable cause.  For more information, contact the church office at: 610-767-6884.

Inclement Weather Notification – You can check our website (www.ulclv); listen to B104FM or WJCS (89.3 FM); call the church office for a message; or, for severe weather information watch WFMZ Channel 8 on Service Electric Cable.  Every attempt is made to hold scheduled events and worship—however, safety must be first.

New members are received three times a year – in February, April, and October.  Prior to reception in the congregation, folks are asked to attend two orientation sessions and a reception with church leaders.  The sessions offer information about our faith and about our congregation’s ministry base.  The next sessions will be held on January 25^th & February 8^th from 7:00 – 9:00 PM with the reception with church leaders on February 12^th from 9:15 – 10:15 AM.  New members will be received into our church family on February 19^th at the 8:00 or 10:45 AM worship services.  To inquire about membership or to register for the Membership Orientation Sessions, contact the Church Office at 610-767-6884 or office@ulclv.org.

Parish Nurse’s Hours – The parish nurse’s office hours are the second Sunday of the month during the Christian education time slot.  Join a parish nurse in room 208 for a blood pressure screening.  Browse through the educational information.  Look at the two periodicals from the Mayo Clinic – Mayo Clinic Women’s Health Source and Mayo Clinic Health Letter.  These publications offer the most current information on many topics.  The parish nurse is available to assist you with any health issue at this time.  The parish nurse is available anytime by contacting the church office.

Funsters Activity Planning Meeting on Thursday, January 12.  The Funsters, a church sponsored group, focused on activities and fellowship opportunities for “ Senior Adults” within the church and community, will meet to plan events for the Spring following a buffet lunch at LCTI.  All “Funsters” interested in helping to plan and coordinate events for the group are welcome.  To make a reservation for the lunch, please contact us (610-261-0416/funsters.ulc@verizon.net)  no later than Sunday, January 8.  If you are interested in helping or just have a suggestion for an activity but cannot make the meeting, please get back to us with your comments and/or suggestions before the meeting.

Parent and Me Sunday School Class will held on Sundays, beginning on February 26 and continuing through April 4, at 9:15 AM in room 204.  The class is open to all children who have turned three after October 2011 or will be three before September 2012.  We ask that a parent remain with their child each week to avoid any separation anxiety.  To RSVP, please call the church office or email the office at ulclv.org so we can be prepared to welcome your child.

January Book Club – Join us today at 9:15 AM to discuss Heaven is for Real by Todd Burpo, Pastor of Crossroads Wesleyan Church in Nebraska.  Pastor Burpo’s 4 year old son, Colton, emerged from life-threatening surgery with astounding details about heaven!  Colton’s account includes looking down to see the doctor operating, seeing his dad praying in the hospital, and meeting relatives who died before he was born.  Hope you can join us!

KFC Winter Session I - “God’s Winter Wonderland” – This session begins Tuesday, January 24^th.  Winter is here…the air is crisp and cold, snowflakes are starting to fall and the stars seem to twinkle brighter than ever!  Come celebrate “God’s Winter Wonderland” with us!  During our time together we will learn about Epiphany, God’s Season of Light!  We have lots of yummy snacks, fun crafts and awesome songs to share!  Preschool “Mom and Me” meets Tuesdays or Wednesdays from 10:00-11:00 AM and Elementary Class (K- 4^th grade) on Wednesdays from 4:00-5:00 PM.  Registration forms are available at the church office or online at www.ulclv.org

The Learning Ark Christian Preschool – We are pleased to announce that registration is open.  If you would like to register your child for the 2012/2013 school year, please complete a registration form and return it to the church office along with the registration fee.  Checks should be made payable to Union Lutheran Church.  Forms will be available in the office and online at www.ulclv.org

Stephen Ministry - Have you ever wondered why you had to go through some rough times?  Did you deserve this?  Was it a punishment?  Was it just something that happened?  Sometimes that is a difficult question to answer and we never figure it out.  Each of us has gone through a time of trial and also a time of learning.  You can use those experiences in service to your church, through Stephen Ministry.  Learn It From Experience – you have a special gift.  If you are looking for a rewarding ministry, consider Stephen Ministry.  Applications are in the Gathering Space plus we will be glad to sit down with you to answer any questions you may have.  If you want to submit a written question, drop it off at the office, we will get back to you as soon as possible.

Nursery Caregiver Positions Open at Union Lutheran – Union Lutheran is looking for a pool of paid Nursery Caregivers to provide childcare during the late worship service from Rally Day through Pentecost.  The Nursery Caregivers will work in a team of two from 10:30 AM until approximately noon.  Special services or occasions may require additional scheduling of the nursery.  Applicants must be at least 18 years old.  Some key qualifications/skills include: cleared criminal history and child-abuse background check, understanding of basic first aid, current certification in child infancy CPR or willing to obtain certification.  Twenty dollars ($20) per week will be given to each attending Nursery Caregiver.  The Nursery Caregiver job description is posted in the Gathering Space hallway or can be requested from the church office.  If interested, please submit a resume to the church office as soon as possible.

Bean Bag Players Wanted – The Journeymen are looking for men with a good aim and a good throwing arm.  We need participants to join us as we practice and then invite other groups to have a Men’s Bean-Bag Tournament.  In 2012 we hope to begin our practice sessions Wednesday January 18 at 7:00 PM in the Family Life Center.  We will have different guest teams invited for a session February 15, March 20 and April 18 with a playoff on May 16.  Join us for some fellowship and fun.  We will have refreshments available.

Important!!  If you or a member of your family is in the hospital, please let us know.  In order for the pastor to provide the best possible care, if you are admitted to Lehigh Valley Hospital, please personally contact the pastor or the church office so that the pastor can visit you or your family member.  At St Luke’s Hospital, admitted patients will be asked if they belong to a faith community and if they wish to have their clergy notified of their hospital admission.  The pastoral care chaplains will make contact with the appropriate clergy member when requested.

2^nd Annual Soup off for World Hunger - Join us for our 2^nd annual soup contest.  Due to lots of requests we’re adding a dessert contest.  If you’d like to order a hand thrown pottery bowl and haven’t ordered one yet, call Cathy.  The bowls will be made by the Baum School of Art.  They will be $12.00.  Once we know how many bowls need to be glazed (painted) we will schedule times for the glazing (painting).  The proceeds from the luncheon will go toward World Hunger.  Your bowl can be used as admission to the luncheon.  This event is planned for Sun., Feb. 5 following the 10:45 service.  Prizes for the best soup and dessert will be awarded.  If you’d like to make a crock of soup or a tray of deserts or bring a loaf of bread or have any questions contact Cathy Smith 570-943-3045.

An FM sound enhancement system is available for your use.  Please see the head usher for a personal receiver if you need this service.  Please turn off all cell phones.

Worship Nursery – Attention parents of our youngest members, we are actively searching to hire staff for the worship nursery.  Until a new staff is in place, please know that you are welcome to use the Nursery or the Cry Room with your children.  If they play with any of the toys, please leave them on one of the tables so that we may sanitize them for the next week.  Thanks for your understanding.

Chicken Pot Pie Dinner – The Journeymen, the men’s ministry group of Union Lutheran Church, will hold their annual Chicken Pot Pie Dinner in the Family Life Center on Saturday, January 14, 2012 from 4:30-7:00 PM.  <The Snow Date will be January 28^th>  Discounted advance tickets can be purchased in the Gathering Space before and after both services on January 1^st and January 8^th, or in the church office during normal business hours.  Cost: adults-$8 advance; $10 at the door; children 12 and under-$5.  NO TICKETS WILL BE RESERVED.  Takeout will also be available.  A limited number of dinners will be sold, so buying tickets in advance is highly recommended or you may miss out!  This is the Journeymen’s most popular fundraising event of the year, and all proceeds will be donated to a charitable cause.  For more information, contact the church office at: 610-767-6884.

Bean Bag Players Wanted – The Journeymen are looking for men with a good aim and a good throwing arm.  We need participants to join us as we practice and then invite other groups to have a Men’s Bean-Bag Tournament.  In 2012 we hope to begin our practice sessions Wednesday January 18 at 7:00 PM in the Family Life Center.  We will have different guest teams invited for a session February 15, March 20, April 18 with a playoff May 16.  Join us for some fellowship and fun.  We will have refreshments available.

From Your Stephen Ministry Team – These Gifts We Give-a relationship which is compassionate, faith filled, skilled, trustworthy.  If at this time of year, the world seems to be closing in on you and instead of warmth you are greeted with a coolness of the heart with no one to talk to, no one who will listen.  ULC has a team of volunteers ready to walk alongside women of the congregation.  Contact the Pastor about establishing a relationship with a Stephen Minister.  A blessed Christmas to all from your Stephen Minister Team 

Women’s Retreat – Wishing you could sneak away for a relaxing time at the beach?  We’ve got the perfect plan!  SeaSide Escape is a relaxing beach-themed retreat the women of our church are doing together.  It includes worship, Bible study, and time for laughter as well as time for quiet reflection.  We will begin on the evening of January 13, 2012 at 6:30 PM and will finish by 3:00 PM on January 14.  Our retreat will be held at the St. Francis Center for Renewal in Bethlehem, and the cost is only $75.00 per person!  This covers a brunch on Saturday, fun and refreshing activities and a private room.  Call Lois Steward at 610-767-5808 for more information, or stop by the registration table to register for the retreat following the 8:00 and 10:45 AM services today in the Gathering Space.  A limited number of scholarships will be available.  (For information on a scholarship, contact Lois.)  We will also be selling gift certificates to give to that someone you just have no idea what to get this Christmas.  Every woman that registers for the retreat will have her name submitted for a chance at winning a Gift Certificate to cover her cost of the retreat.  A Winner will be chosen after the registration deadline of January 2, 2012 and will be notified by phone or e-mail.  Take time to relax, to make new friends, to worship, and bask in the warmth of God’s presence.  We hope you’ll join us at the SeaSide Escape.  It will be a retreat you’re sure to remember!

Sign-up now to host Sunday Morning Fellowship.  Ask a friend (or two) to partner as host/hostess with you.  All you need to do is set up coffee, tea, and cold drinks, and clean up afterwards.  The Fellowship Committee will provide cookies.  Please help us continue this time of friendship and fellowship.

Inclement Weather Notification – You can check our website (www.ulclv); listen to WAEB, B104FM or WJCS (89.3 FM); call the church office for a message; or, for severe weather information watch WFMZ Channel 8 on Service Electric Cable.  Every attempt is made to hold scheduled events and worship—however, safety must be first.

Can you press a button?  Then you are the person we need!  We are looking for a few people who can run our Power Point presentation on a rotating basis during the monthly Contemporary Worship service.  If interested, talk to Cathy in the church office!

January Book Club – Join us Sunday, January 8 at 9:15 AM to discuss Heaven is for Real by Todd Burpo, Pastor of Crossroads Wesleyan Church in Nebraska. Pastor Burpo’s 4 year old son, Colton, emerged from life-threatening surgery with astounding details about heaven!  Colton’s account includes looking down to see the doctor operating, seeing his dad praying in the hospital, and meeting relatives who died before he was born.  Hope you can join us for what’s sure to be a lively discussion!

Funsters’ Activity Planning Meeting on Thursday, January 12.  The Funsters, a church sponsored group, focused on activities and fellowship opportunities for “ Senior Adults” within the church and community, will meet to plan events for the Spring following a buffet lunch at LCTI.  All “Funsters” interested in helping to plan and coordinate events for the group are welcome.  To make a reservation for the lunch, please contact us (610-261-0416/funsters.ulc@verizon.net)  no later than Sunday, January 8.  If you are interested in helping or just have a suggestion for an activity but cannot make the meeting, please get back to us with your comments and/or suggestions before the meeting.  

The Learning Ark Christian Preschool – We are pleased to announce that registration opened on December 15.  If you would like to register your child for the 2012/2013 school year, please complete a registration form and return it to the church office along with the registration fee.  Checks should be made payable to Union Lutheran Church.  Forms will be available in the office and online at www.ulclv.org

Bulletin & Flower Sponsors – Each week, we ask people to sponsor bulletins and flowers for the worship services.  Sign-up lists for 2012 are on the media center bulletin board.  Please sign up on that list or call Cheryll Kosar for bulletins (610-261-0242).  The cost for worship bulletins is $20.00 and children’s bulletins is $3.00.  We also need sponsors for the worship flowers.  The cost per vase is $15.00.  Please sign up on the bulletin board or call Linda Houser (610-799-2396).  (Please note: after the worship services, ALL of the vases of flowers will be delivered to homebound members of our congregation.)  Your sponsorship may be paid when you sign up or paid on the Sunday you are sponsoring.  Please use a pew envelope and indicate “bulletin or flower sponsor”. 

Important!!  If you or a member of your family is in the hospital, please let us know.  In order for the pastor to provide the best possible care, if you are admitted to Lehigh Valley Hospital, please personally contact the pastor or the church office so that the pastor can visit you or your family member.  At St Luke’s Hospital, admitted patients will be asked if they belong to a faith community and if they wish to have their clergy notified of their hospital admission.  The pastoral care chaplains will make contact with the appropriate clergy member when requested.

Nursery Caregiver Positions Open at Union Lutheran – Union Lutheran is looking for a pool of paid Nursery Caregivers to provide childcare during the late worship service from Rally Day through Pentecost.  The Nursery Caregivers will work in a team of two from 10:30 AM until approximately noon.  Special services or occasions may require additional scheduling of the nursery.  Applicants must be at least 18 years old.  Some key qualifications/skills include: cleared criminal history and child-abuse background check, understanding of basic first aid, current certification in child infancy CPR or willing to obtain certification.  Twenty dollars ($20) per week will be given to each attending Nursery Caregiver.  The Nursery Caregiver job description is posted in the Gathering Space hallway or can be requested from the church office.  If interested, please submit a resume to the church office as soon as possible. 

2^nd Annual Soup off for World Hunger-   Join us for our 2^nd annual soup contest.  Due to lots of requests we’re adding a desert contest.  If you’d like to order a hand thrown pottery bowl and haven’t ordered one yet, call Cathy.  The bowls will be made by the Baum School of Art they will be $12.00.  Once we know how many bowls need to be glazed (painted) we will schedule times for the glazing (painting). The proceeds from the luncheon will go toward World Hunger.  Your bowl can be used as admission to the luncheon. This event is planned for Sun., Feb. 5 following the 10:45. Prizes for the best soup and desert will be awarded.  If you’d like to make a crock of soup or a tray of deserts or bring a loaf of bread or have any questions contact Cathy Smith 570-943-3045.

An FM sound enhancement system is available for your use.  Please see the head usher for a personal receiver if you need this service.  Please turn off all cell phones.

The UELC Advent Devotional Guide for 2011 is available.  These daily mediations were written by members of the congregation to enrich our personal and family devotions throughout the Advent-Epiphany season.  Please take only one per family.

Christmas Eve Ushers are needed for the 3:00 and 5:00 PM services.  Communion Assistants are needed for the 3:00 and 5:00 PM.  To sign up, please use the chart on the hallway bulletin board.

Needed:  4-6 persons willing to be procession leaders at the 8:00 and 11:00 PM Christmas Eve services.  While experience in dance isn’t necessary, it will require some dance-like steps/movement.  One rehearsal will be necessary.  If interested, please call the office ASAP. 

Christmas Eve Services – On Saturday, December 24^th, there will be four Christmas Eve Services.  The 3:00 and 5:00 PM services will not be candlelight service.  The 5:00 PM service will feature our Youth Singers.  The 8:00 PM and 11:00 PM services will be candlelight services.  The 8:00 PM service will feature our Glory Ringers, Union Winds and Praise Band and the 11:00 PM service will feature our Union Winds and Union Chorale.  Holy Communion will be offered at all services.  Please plan to join us at one of these services and celebrate the birth of our Lord, Jesus Christ.

Christmas Day Worship – Join us for worship on Christmas Day at 10:00 AM. 

Chicken Pot Pie Dinner – The Journeymen, the men’s ministry group of Union Lutheran Church, will hold their annual Chicken Pot Pie Dinner in the Family Life Center on Saturday, January 14, 2012 from 4:30-7:00 PM.  <The Snow Date will be January 28^th>  Discounted advance tickets can be purchased in the Gathering Space before and after both services on January 1^st and January 8^th, or in the church office during normal business hours.  Cost: adults-$8 advance; $10 at the door; children 12 and under-$5.  NO TICKETS WILL BE RESERVED.  Takeout will also be available.  A limited number of dinners will be sold, so buying tickets in advance is highly recommended or you may miss out!  This is the Journeymen’s most popular fundraising event of the year, and all proceeds will be donated to a charitable cause.  For more information, contact the church office at: 610-767-6884.

Rejoicing Spirits Worship Service will be held Sunday, December 18 at 2:30 PM.  The informal service is directed to people with young children, developmental disabilities, etc.  We’ve designed an adapted worship service to engage these individuals, along with their caregivers, families and other supportive members in the community.  We have created an environment that is accepting and welcoming to all children of God.  The service includes lots of music and joyous singing; brief, meaningful messages; love-filled community; fellowship opportunities; light refreshments.  Interaction and free expression are welcome during Rejoicing Spirits worship services.  We have a “no shushing” policy.  Everyone in the community is welcome and all faiths are welcome. 

YAMS!  Sunday School is having their 2^nd annual Yam contest.  ULC needs 300 cans for Thanksgiving and 300 cans for Christmas for the Northern Lehigh Food Bank.  The classroom(s) with the most yams will have a party in their classroom on Jan 8^th.  There is a bulletin board in the classroom hallway monitoring the race.  So tell your parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles, and let’s see how many classrooms will win.

Can you press a button?  Then you are the person we need!  We are looking for a few people who can run our Power Point presentation on a rotating basis during the monthly Contemporary Worship service.  If interested, talk to Cathy in the church office!

Thank you to everyone who allowed their name to appear on the ballet for election of members to Church Council.  The following are the people you elected:  Skie Kramp for 1 year; Deb Clay-Alston, Kathy Danish, Deb Geiger, Jim Mason and Jeff Sweigart for 3 years.

Elementary Youth Group (EYG) Christmas Party, today, 6:00 – 7:30 PM – Please join us in the Family Life Center to celebrate the joys of Christmas!  Lots of fun will be in store for all of the children.  We will have a gift exchange.  Please bring a wrapped gift of $15 value that would be for a boy or a girl.  Each child needs one gift and will go home with one gift.  We look forward to a wonderful party!  Due to the amazing response to our Halloween Party, please RSVP to David and Kandy Lang @ kandykandy033@yahoo.com if you are planning on attending.

Bean Bag Players Wanted – The Journeymen are looking for men with a good aim and a good throwing arm.  We need participants to join us as we practice and then invite other groups to have a Men’s Bean-Bag Tournament.  In 2012 we hope to begin our practice sessions Wednesday January 18 at 7:00 PM in the Family Life Center.  We will have different guest teams invited for a session February 15, March 20, April 18 with a playoff May 16.  Join us for some fellowship and fun.  We will have refreshments available

January Book Club – Join us Sunday, January 8 at 9:15 AM to discuss Heaven is for Real by Todd Burpo, Pastor of Crossroads Wesleyan Church in Nebraska. Pastor Burpo’s 4 year old son, Colton, emerged from life-threatening surgery with astounding details about heaven! Colton’s account includes looking down to see the doctor operating, seeing his dad praying in the hospital, and meeting relatives who died before he was born.  Hope you can join us for what’s sure to be a lively discussion!

Women’s Retreat – Wishing you could sneak away for a relaxing time at the beach?  We’ve got the perfect plan!  SeaSide Escape is a relaxing beach-themed retreat the women of our church are doing together.  It includes worship, Bible study, and time for laughter as well as time for quiet reflection.  We will begin on the evening of January 13, 2012 at 6:30 PM and will finish by 3:00 PM on January 14.  Our retreat will be held at the St. Francis Center for Renewal in Bethlehem, and the cost is only $75.00 per person!  This covers a brunch on Saturday, fun and refreshing activities and a private room.  Call Lois Steward at 610-767-5808 for more information, or stop by the registration table to register for the retreat following the 8:00 and 10:45 AM services today in the Gathering Space.  A limited number of scholarships will be available.  (For information on a scholarship, contact Lois.)  We will also be selling gift certificates to give to that someone you just have no idea what to get this Christmas.  Every woman that registers for the retreat will have her name submitted for a chance at winning a Gift Certificate to cover her cost of the retreat.  A Winner will be chosen after the registration deadline of January 2, 2012 and will be notified by phone or e-mail.  Take time to relax, to make new friends, to worship, and bask in the warmth of God’s presence.  We hope you’ll join us at the SeaSide Escape.  It will be a retreat you’re sure to remember!

The Learning Ark Christian Preschool – We are pleased to announce that registration opened on December 15.  If you would like to register your child for the 2012/2013 school year, please complete a registration form and return it to the church office along with the registration fee.  Checks should be made payable to Union Lutheran Church.  Forms will be available in the office and online at www.ulclv.org

Bulletin & Flower Sponsors – Each week, we ask people to sponsor bulletins and flowers for the worship services.  Sign-up lists for 2012 are on the media center bulletin board.  Please sign up on that list or call Cheryll Kosar for bulletins (610-261-0242).  The cost for worship bulletins is $20.00 and children’s bulletins is $3.00.  We also need sponsors for the worship flowers.  The cost per vase is $15.00.  Please sign up on the bulletin board or call Linda Houser (610-799-2396).  (Please note: after the worship services, ALL of the vases of flowers will be delivered to homebound members of our congregation.)  Your sponsorship may be paid when you sign up or paid on the Sunday you are sponsoring.  Please use a pew envelope and indicate “bulletin or flower sponsor”.

Your Stephen Ministries Leaders would like to say, we are so proud of our first Stephen Ministers.  They have already put countless hours in their training period and now present themselves for commissioning.  Their dedication and participation was evidence of their commitment to this project.  Please, as you see your new Stephen Ministers, acknowledge all they have accomplished.  They deserve our gratitude and respect.  Also, please know, your Stephen Ministry is up and running, walking alongside fellow members of Union Lutheran.  A special thank you goes to: Mr. and Mrs. Leon Grim, for our banner, Patti Hoffman for the lettering on our certificates, Shirley and Cathy for coming to our aid, Dale Johnson for the staining of the dowels for our banner.  Last but not least thank you to Pastor Moore for his direction.  From Joan Fredericks and Irene Folk, “congratulations to the First Stephen Ministers at Union Lutheran.  All of you have done an outstanding job and you are a credit to the congregation”.

Important!!  If you or a member of your family is in the hospital, please let us know.  In order for the pastor to provide the best possible care, if you are admitted to Lehigh Valley Hospital, please personally contact the pastor or the church office so that the pastor can visit you or your family member.  At St Luke’s Hospital, admitted patients will be asked if they belong to a faith community and if they wish to have their clergy notified of their hospital admission.  The pastoral care chaplains will make contact with the appropriate clergy member when requested.

Worship Nursery – Attention parents of our youngest members, we are actively searching to hire staff for the worship nursery.  Until a new staff is in place, please know that you are welcome to use the Nursery or the Cry Room with your children.  If they play with any of the toys, please leave them on one of the tables so that we may sanitize them for the next week.  Thanks for your understanding.

2^nd Annual Soup off for World Hunger:  Join us for our 2^nd annual soup contest.  Due to lots of requests, we’re adding a dessert contest.  If you’d like to order a hand thrown pottery soup bowl, made by the Baum School of Art, they will be $12.00.  We will be taking orders.  Once we know how many bowls need to be glazed, we will schedule times for the glazing (when you will be decorating your own bowl).  The proceeds from the luncheon will go toward World Hunger.  Your bowl can be used as admission to the luncheon.  This event is planned for Sunday, February 5 following the 10:45 AM worship service.  Prizes for the best soup and dessert will be awarded.  If you’d like to make a crock of soup or a tray of desserts or have any questions, contact Cathy Smith 570-943-3045.

Nursery Caregiver Positions Open at Union Lutheran – Union Lutheran is looking for a pool of paid Nursery Caregivers to provide childcare during the late worship service from Rally Day through Pentecost.  The Nursery Caregivers will work in a team of two from 10:30 AM until approximately noon.  Special services or occasions may require additional scheduling of the nursery.  Applicants must be at least 18 years old.  Some key qualifications/skills include: cleared criminal history and child-abuse background check, understanding of basic first aid, current certification in child infancy CPR or willing to obtain certification.  Twenty dollars ($20) per week will be given to each attending Nursery Caregiver.  The Nursery Caregiver job description is posted in the Gathering Space hallway or can be requested from the church office.  If interested, please submit a resume to the church office as soon as possible.