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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.

Ushers are needed for the worship services on Maundy Thursday (April 5).  If you can help, please put your name on the signup sheet on the bulletin board.

Holy Week Schedule:  Maundy Thursday – April 5^th at 7:00 PM:  Those completing the First Communion classes will receive their First Communion.  Good Friday – April 6^th at 7:00 PM: Tenebrae Service.  Easter Sunday – April 8^th: Services will be held at 8:00 AM and 10:45 AM.

It’s Gospel and Hymn-Sing Sunday at ULC:  We are hosting the Muhlenberg College Gospel Choir and having a “hymn-sing” style worship service led by ULC’s Praise Band.  Do you like singing: Leaning on the Everlasting Arms; Softly and Tenderly; Shall We Gather at the River; Precious Lord Take My Hand; Blessed Assurance; My Life Flows On In Endless Song; and I’m So Glad Jesus Lifted Me?  Then you will want to warm up the vocal chords for that Sunday.  Plus, the Muhlenberg College Gospel Choir will be sharing their four-part Gospel anthems!  It will be offered at both services.  Mark The Date:  SUNDAY, APRIL 15^TH.

Turning Point - If you find yourself doing some spring cleaning and have an abundance of gently used bath towels and/or twin sheet sets (pillow cases, fitted & flat sheets), why not donate them to Turning Point.  Turning Point is an organization which helps people who find themselves in domestic violence situations and gives them a safe place to stay while getting back on their feet.  Bring your towels and sheets to church the month of April and put them in the marked box in the Gathering Space.  Any questions call Cathy Smith at 570-943-3045.

Italian Dinner Buffet (All–you–can–eat)  Saturday, April 14^th 4:00–7:00 PM  Menu includes:  Chicken Marsala, Baked Ziti, Pasta with Alfredo, Sausage or Marinara Sauce, salad, breadsticks, cake and beverages.  Tickets can be purchased in the church office or at the door.  Cost:  $12/adults and $8/children (6-12)/under 6 free.  Take-out available!  Proceeds benefit the Youth Trip to the 2012 ELCA National Youth Gathering in New Orleans.

Hunger Walk 2012 - The 4th annual walk for hunger will be held on Sunday May 6^th at the Northern Lehigh Food Bank in Emerald.  Registration begins at 1:45 PM with the walk to follow immediately at 2:00 PM.  There are 3 ways to participate: l. Register to walk by filling out a form located on the front of the grocery cart in the Gathering Space.  2. Sponsor someone who is already walking or see me to be a walk sponsor.  3. If you own a business or know someone who owns a business and would like to be a business sponsor (business logo is printed on back of Hunger Walk shirt) please let me know.  The walk is approx. 4 miles long but you can walk as much of the 4 miles that you would like.  All proceeds from this walk go directly to the Northern Lehigh Food Bank to help our neighbors in need.  Need more information or have questions?  Contact Patty Hersh at 610-391-9407 or pahjrh@rcn.com.

Women’s Café will get together today for our April gathering, since April 8^th is Easter.  So join us in room 101 following the second service for some food, friendship and laughter.

Bike for World Hunger at Rodale Cycling/Fitness Park, Trexlertown, on Saturday, May 19.  Come one, come all and cycle, rollerblade, walk at this great location with Lutherans from around the synod while raising money for the ELCA World Hunger Appeal.  Check the hallway bulletin board for more info.

2012 Men’s Retreat: One Day Get-away – The Journeymen, the men’s ministry group of ULC, are inviting all men of the congregation to join us on our annual retreat.  Join us on Saturday April 28 (7:00 AM-4:45 PM) for an opportunity to spend the day with other men of the congregation to engage in conversation, meet new friends, help others and grow in Christ.  Prepare for an adventure!  The retreat takes place at the Veterans Sanctuary (24 S.5th St., Allentown).  This community based treatment center is dedicated to serving the veterans (who have served us) and providing support for families.  It exclusively serves veterans from across Pennsylvania and their families.  This year we will incorporate a service project into the first half of the retreat, performing some light painting in their gymnasium.  No expertise is required.  All tools and materials will be provided.  The second half of the retreat consists of Food (lunch), Fellowship (free time, Bible study/discussion), and Fun (Bean bag and Hearts Tournaments).  (Complete itinerary on Journeymen bulletin board in hallway).  The cost of only $10 (which The Journeymen will donate to the Veterans Sanctuary) includes breakfast, lunch, and all activities.  Why not give it a try?  We encourage all men of the congregation of all ages to prayerfully consider attending the retreat this year.  And bring a friend!  Guests are welcome too!  Ladies, please encourage the man in your life to attend the 2012 ULC Men’s Retreat.  You’ll both be glad he did!  If you would like to sign up for the retreat, call the church office at 610-767-6884 or use the sign-up sheet on The Journeymen Bulletin Board.  Deadline for sign-up is Sunday April 22.  Hope to see you there!   

Stephen Ministry – In April your Stephen Ministry Team will be recruiting for the Fall 2012 Class of Trainees, which we plan to start in September.  We hope members of the congregation will prayerfully consider joining our team.  Applications may be found in the Gathering Space.  If you have any questions, please talk to one of our Stephen Ministers.  Members of the present team are caring for members of the congregation.  It is very rewarding.  If anyone would like the services of a Stephen Minister please speak to Pastor Moore.  We look forward to talking to you. 

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.

The Learning Ark Christian Preschool – 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.

Holy Humor Sunday – Come join the fun with the Adult Sunday School on April 15^th at 9:15 AM.  We will observe Holy Humor Sunday.  Wear a funny hat.  Bring some jokes and cartoons to share.  Let’s celebrate the victory of Easter and enjoy a good laugh at the devil!

Work Day – April 14 8:00 AM – 12:00 Noon.  Watch future bulletins for more information.

Your feet are needed!  During our Maundy Thursday worship service on April 5^th, the pastor will be re-enacting Jesus washing feet.  If you would like to participate in this part of the worship service, please speak with the pastor.  Youth and adults are welcome to participate.

Ushers are needed for the worship services on Maundy Thursday (April 5) and Good Friday (April 6).  If you can help, please put your name on the signup sheet on the bulletin board.

During Lent we will be meeting on Wednesday evenings for an additional time of fellowship, food and worship.  Soup and bread will be served in the Family Life Center from 6:00 – 6:30 PM.  Each evening a freewill offering will be received to help defray the cost of the meal.  At 7:00 PM we will gather in the Nave for worship with those who could not make the meal joining us.  We will again use the Holden Village Evening Prayer Service—a congregation favorite.  Soups for March 28^th will be Sausage Stew (gluten free), Beef Rice (gluten free) & New England Clam Chowder (subject to change without prior notice).

Daffodil Days 2012 Today the flower of hope for cancer patients will be for sale for $10.00 a bunch.  50 bunches will be available after the first service.  Celebrating Daffodil Days is much more than enjoying beautiful flowers: it’s about sharing hope for a world free of cancer.  77% of Americans have either a family member or close friend who has been diagnosed with cancer.  The first flower of spring is the flower of hope.  Cancer is everywhere.  It can strike anyone without discrimination to age, sex, color or status.  Some cancers are very treatable, other cancers have poor prognosis.  Research will help find treatments and cures.  Education will improve early diagnosis.  Each day new hope for the many types of cancer is explored.  Support Daffodil Days.

Yams, Yams, Yams – Easter is right around the corner and we have been requested to provide 300 containers of yams or sweet potatoes to the Northern Lehigh Food Bank for their Easter distribution.  Canned or boxes of instant sweet potatoes will be delivered by our volunteers on Friday, March 30^th.  All donations can be placed in or around the grocery cart in the Gathering Space.  Thank you in advance to everyone who keeps the grocery cart full.  You are a blessing to the hungry.

Easter Flowers – In order to decorate the Nave for Easter, the Worship and Music Committee will purchase a variety of Easter flowers.  A list of donors and those honored or memorialized will appear in the Easter Bulletin.  We are requesting a $2.00 donation per name to be memorialized or honored.  To contribute, please put your donation in a pew envelope.  On the back of the envelope, please indicate your name and any brief dedication.  We hope you will support this ministry of beauty.  Deadline to sponsor is March 26^th.  

Holy Week Schedule:  Maundy Thursday – April 5^th at 7:00 PM:  Those completing the First Communion classes will receive their First Communion.  Good Friday – April 6^th at 7:00 PM: Tenebrae Service.  Easter Sunday – April 8^th: Services will be held at 8:00 AM and 10:45 AM

Tuesday, April 10, Bach At Noon – Join the Funsters for a Choral Concert at the Central Moravian Church, 40 W. Church St., Bethlehem followed by a late lunch at the Olive Garden in Whitehall.  Doors open at 11:30 AM/Concert begins at 12:10 PM.  Free-will offering can be made.  Contact the Stangle’s (610-261-0416/funsters.ulc@verizon.net) if you are planning to attend.

Turning Point - If you find yourself doing some spring cleaning and have an abundance of gently used bath towels and/or twin sheet sets (pillow cases, fitted & flat sheets), why not donate them to Turning Point.  Turning Point is an organization which helps people who find themselves in domestic violence situations and gives them a safe place to stay while getting back on their feet.  Bring your towels and sheets to church the month of April and put them in the marked box in the Gathering Space.  Any questions call Cathy Smith at 570-943-3045.

Last Chance – Tuesday, May 8 – Jonah at Sight & Sound Theater & dinner at Shady Maple with the Funsters.  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.  For reservations and/or additional information, contact Jake Hammond at 610-799-0192 ASAP (shows are selling out quickly).  There is also a Back Stage Tour available (10:00 AM for $19).  Money due to Jake no later than April 1.

Italian Dinner Buffet (All–you–can–eat)  Saturday, April 14^th 4:00–7:00 PM  Menu includes:  Chicken Marsala, Baked Ziti, Pasta with Alfredo, Sausage or Marinara Sauce, salad, breadsticks, cake and beverages.  Tickets can be purchased in the church office, in the hallway today or at the door.  Cost:  $12/adults and $6/children (6-12)/under 6 free.  Take-out available!  Proceeds benefit the Youth Trip to the 2012 ELCA National Youth Gathering in New Orleans. 

Stewardship Committee – Mortgage Fast Facts If we would have kept the original mortgage payment and not made any changes by the end of 2011 we would have paid $1,836,089.20, while we actually have paid $1,092,503.00 – a savings of $743,586.20.  Stay tuned for more good news from our Stewardship Committee!

Easter Egg Hunt – Everyone is invited to the annual Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday, March 31^st, at 1:00 PM on the church lawn (inclement weather date April 7^th).  The Easter Egg Hunt is open to kids ages 0-12.  There will also be an Adult Egg Toss.  The Easter Bunny will be there to greet us and pose for pictures.  So that we have plenty of eggs and prizes for everyone, it is very important that you register for the Egg Hunt.  To register, please either fill out the registration sheet next to the big orange box in the Gathering Space, fill out a Ministry Response Card (please check line #1) or contact the church office (office@ulclv.org or 610-767-6884).  We need the name of each child and their age.  Donations of wrapped candy and prizes for the hunt are needed (chocolate bunnies, crayons, books, etc.)  If you do not want to purchase anything, a monetary donation can be made and we will do the shopping.  Plastic eggs are NOT needed.  Please place your donations in the box in the Gathering Space today.

Got Baskets??  We are in need of baskets to fill for our shut ins.  Social Ministry will be filling baskets to deliver to those who cannot make it to church for the Easter services.  If you have any extra baskets please bring them to Room 208 before Sunday, April 1.

Women’s Café will get together on April 1^st for our April gathering, since April 8^th is Easter.  So change the date on your calendar and join us in room 101 following the second service for some food, friendship and laughter.  For more information contact Lois Steward 610-767-5808.

Hunger Walk 2012 - The 4th annual walk for hunger will be held on Sunday May 6^th at the Northern Lehigh Food Bank in Emerald.  Registration begins at 1:45 PM with the walk to follow immediately at 2:00 PM.  There are 3 ways to participate – l. Register to walk by filling out a form located on the front of the grocery cart in the gathering space – 2.Sponsor someone who is already walking or see me to be a walk sponsor.  – 3.If you own a business or know someone who owns a business and would like to be a business sponsor (business logo is printed on back of Hunger Walk shirt) please let me know.  The walk is approx. 4 miles long but you can walk as much of the 4 miles that you would like.  All proceeds from this walk go directly to the Northern Lehigh Food Bank to help our neighbors in need.  Need more information or have questions?  Contact Patty Hersh at 610-391-9407 or pahjrh@rcn.com.

2012 Men’s Retreat: One Day Get-away – The Journeymen, the men’s ministry group of ULC, are once again inviting all men of the congregation to join us on our annual retreat.  Plan to join us on Saturday April 28 (7:00 AM-4:45 PM) for an opportunity to spend the day with other men of the congregation to engage in conversation, meet new friends, help others and grow in Christ.  Set the day aside and prepare for an adventure!  The retreat takes place at the Veterans Sanctuary (24 S.5th St. Allentown).  This community based treatment center is dedicated to serving the veterans (who have served us) and providing support for families.  It exclusively serves veterans from across Pennsylvania and their families.  This year we will incorporate a service project into the first half of the retreat by performing some light painting in their gymnasium.  No expertise is required, and all materials and tools will be provided.  The second half of the retreat consists of Food (lunch), Fellowship (free time, Bible study/discussion), and Fun (Bean bag and Hearts Tournaments).  (Complete itinerary on Journeymen bulletin board in hallway).  The cost of only $10 (which The Journeymen will donate to the Veterans Sanctuary) includes breakfast, lunch, and all activities.  Why not give it a try?  We encourage all men of the congregation of all ages to prayerfully consider attending the retreat this year.  And bring a friend!  Guests are welcome too!  Ladies, please encourage the man in your life to attend the 2012 ULC Men’s Retreat.  You’ll both be glad he did!  If you would like to sign up for the retreat, call the church office at 610-767-6884.  A sign-up sheet will also be available on The Journeymen Bulletin Board in the Church.  Deadline for sign-up is Sunday April 22.  Hope to see you there!

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.

The Learning Ark Christian Preschool – 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.

Ministry Response Cards are available in the pew racks.  Please use these cards to correspond the following information to the church office:  change of address/phone and indicating areas in which you would like to have more information.  The card will also serve as a way to make reservations for church events and a way to order items.

Welcome to the Girl Scouts as they celebrate Girl Scout Sunday.

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.

During Lent we will be meeting on Wednesday evenings for an additional time of fellowship, food and worship.  Soup and bread will be served in the Family Life Center from 6:00 – 6:30 PM.  Each evening a freewill offering will be received to help defray the cost of the meal.  At 7:00 PM we will gather in the Nave for worship with those who could not make the meal joining us.  We will again use the Holden Village Evening Prayer Service—a congregation favorite.  Soups for March 14^th will be Corn Beef and Cabbage (Gluten free), Cream of Potato and Manhattan Clam Chowder (Gluten free) (subject to change without prior notice).

Daffodil Days 2012 On Sunday, March 25^th the flower of hope for cancer patients will be for sale for $10.00 a bunch.  50 bunches will be available after the first service.  Celebrating Daffodil Days is much more than enjoying beautiful flowers: it’s about sharing hope for a world free of cancer.  77% of Americans have either a family member or close friend who has been diagnosed with cancer.  The first flower of spring is the flower of hope.  Cancer is everywhere.  It can strike anyone without discrimination to age, sex, color or status.  Some cancers are very treatable, other cancers have poor prognosis.  Research will help find treatments and cures.  Education will improve early diagnosis.  Each day new hope for the many types of cancer is explored.  Support Daffodil Days on Sunday, March 25^th.

Yams, Yams, Yams – Easter is right around the corner and we have been requested to provide 300 containers of yams or sweet potatoes to the Northern Lehigh Food Bank for their Easter distribution.  Canned or boxes of instant sweet potatoes will be delivered by our volunteers on Friday, March 30^th.  All donations can be placed in or around the grocery cart in the Gathering Space.  Thank you in advance to everyone who keeps the grocery cart full.  You are a blessing to the hungry.

Easter Flowers – In order to decorate the Nave for Easter, the Worship and Music Committee will purchase a variety of Easter flowers.  A list of donors and those honored or memorialized will appear in the Easter Bulletin.  We are requesting a $2.00 donation per name to be memorialized or honored.  To contribute, please put your donation in a pew envelope.  On the back of the envelope, please indicate your name and any brief dedication.  We hope you will support this ministry of beauty.  Deadline to sponsor is March 26^th.

By & Buy!  Stop by the Fair Trade Cart to see the assortment of delicious coffees, teas, cocoa, and and chocolates, and buy!

Your feet are needed!  During our Maundy Thursday worship service on April 5^th, the pastor will be re-enacting Jesus washing feet.  If you would like to participate in this part of the worship service, please speak with the pastor.  Youth and adults are welcome to participate.

Ushers and communion assistants are needed for the Lenten season worship services.  Ushers are need for Maundy Thursday (4/5) and Good Friday (4/6).  Communion Assistants are needed for Maundy Thursday.  If you can help, please put your name on the signup sheet on the bulletin board.

Easter Egg Hunt – Everyone is invited to the annual Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday, March 31^st, at 1:00 PM on the church lawn (inclement weather date April 7^th).  The Easter Egg Hunt is open to kids ages 0-12.  There will also be an Adult Egg Toss.  The Easter Bunny will be there to greet us and pose for pictures.  So that we have plenty of eggs and prizes for everyone, it is very important that you register for the Egg Hunt.  To register, please either fill out the registration sheet next to the big orange box in the Gathering Space, fill out a Ministry Response Card (please check line #2) or contact the church office (office@ulclv.org or 610-767-6884).  We need the name of each child and their age.  Donations of wrapped candy and prizes for the hunt are needed (chocolate bunnies, crayons, books, etc.)  If you do not want to purchase anything, a monetary donation can be made and we will do the shopping.  Plastic eggs are NOT needed.  Please place your donations in the box in the Gathering Space by March 25^th.

First Communion Instruction – Our congregation has opened its Altar or communion fellowship to children in First Grade or above.  Bringing children into the communing fellowship has offered families the opportunity to share the Lord’s Supper and has brought more meaning to the children’s presence and participation in worship.  During the Lenten season of a child’s First Grade experience, classes for preparation to receive communion are held.  Instruction for all non-communing children who are in First Grade or older is scheduled for March 18^th, 25^th (4:30-5:30 PM) and April 1^st (4:30-6:30 PM).  Students must attend all 3 classes.  To register, use the Ministry Response Card (please check line #1) and place in the offering plate. 

Help us locate people for our next 50^th Confirmation Class Reunion.  If you have any information on Dorothy Gangaway (daughter of Raymond and Perma Gangaway) or Gene and William Kunkel (sons of William and Beatrice Kunkel), please contact the church office.

Stewardship Committee – Mortgage Fast Facts Our monthly mortgage payment started out at $13,021.91 – as of February 2012 – our monthly payment is $3,834.42 – a savings of $9,187.49 per month.  Stay tuned for more good news from our Stewardship Committee!

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.

Our next Book Club selection, The Birth of Venus by Sarah Dunant, 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 March 25 @ 9:15 AM to discuss this story of love, art, religion and power.

Women’s Café will meet this morning following the second service.  We will be helping the Fellowship Committee by preparing the plastic eggs for the Easter Egg Hunt.  Pizza will be supplied for lunch, so you do not have to bring anything this month.  Hope to see you there.

 “Kids-Faith-Creativity” Spring Session – “God’s Springtime Blessings” Spring is here…the air is getting warmer, flowers are blooming, the sky is a beautiful blue and the sun is shining!  Come celebrate “God’s Springtime Blessings” with us!  During our time together we will learn about the seasons of Lent and Easter and discover just how much Jesus loves us!!  We have lots of yummy snacks; fun crafts and awesome songs to share…so please join us!  Preschool “Mom and Me” (10:00-11:00 AM): Tuesday class: March 20^th, March 27th, April 3rd, April 10th, April 17^th and April 24^th; Wednesday class: March 21st, March 28th, April 4^th, April 11^th, April 18^th and April 25^th; Elementary Class (K- 4^th grade) meets 4:00-5:00 PM:  Wednesdays: March 21st, March 28th, April 4^th, April 11^th, April 18^th and April 25^th.

Parish Nurses’ Hours – The parish nurses are in the office today during the Christian Education time slot and after the 10:45 AM Worship Service.  Join them 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.

Men, Save the Date: April 28, 2012 - Plan a day of fun, service, fellowship and learning about Christ by doing.  This is an opportunity to spend a day with other men of the church to engage in conversation, meet new friends, help others and grow in Christ.  No experience necessary, just set the day aside and prepare for an adventure.  See you then.

Ministry Response Cards are available in the pew racks.  Please use these cards to correspond the following information to the church office:  change of address/phone and indicating areas in which you would like to have more information.  The card will also serve as a way to make reservations for church events and a way to order items.

Camp volunteers needed – Camp Noah, designed and directed by Lutheran Social Services (LSS), is a fun-filled, faith-based, week-long day camp for children from first through sixth grade who have experienced disaster or trauma.  Camp Noah offers the structure, connectedness and play children need to build resiliency and hope.  In 2012, we are focusing our energies on setting up camps in eastern Pennsylvania areas impacted by last September’s storms and on training teams to lead these camps.  We are seeking volunteers to join our team (mature youth ages 16-18 and adults).  For more information, contact Ruth Doty at 484-553-1162 or ruth@lutherancongregationalservices.org.

The Learning Ark Christian Preschool – 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.

Funsters – Tuesday, May 8 – Jonah at Sight & Sound Theater and dinner at Shady Maple.  (This is a date change from a previous announcement.)  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.  For reservations and/or additional information, contact Jake Hammond at 610-799-0192 ASAP (shows are selling out quickly).  There is also a Back Stage Tour available (10:00 AM for $19).  Money due to Jake no later than April 8.

Stephen Ministry – We are blessed at ULC to have 7 members in our Stephen Ministry Team.  Several of our Stephen Ministers have Care Receivers with whom they meet on a regular basis.  But we have a problem.  We are not being fully utilized by our congregation.  We are ready to help you in whatever life crisis you may be going through.  We are willing to walk with you for as long as you need us.  Please contact Pastor Moore to speak about getting the help of a Stephen Minister.  We ask the prayers of the congregation for the continued success of this Ministry. 

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.

Paper Prayers Card Ministry – Beginning today we will be meeting the 1^st and 3^rd Sundays of every month in room 107 at 9:15 AM.  If you are interested in creating cards and other items from home or joining us on a Sunday morning, please come to the meeting today.

During Lent we will be meeting on Wednesday evenings for an additional time of fellowship, food and worship.  Soup and bread will be served in the Family Life Center from 6:00 – 6:30 PM.  Each evening a freewill offering will be received to help defray the cost of the meal.  At 7:00 PM we will gather in the Nave for worship with those who could not make the meal joining us.  We will again use the Holden Village Evening Prayer Service—a congregation favorite.  Soups for March 7^th will be Ham & Bean (Gluten free), Italian Wedding and Chunky Cream of Tomato (subject to change without prior notice).

Daffodil Days 2012 On Sunday, March 25^th the flower of hope for cancer patients will be for sale for $10.00 a bunch.  50 bunches will be available after the first service.  Celebrating Daffodil Days is much more than enjoying beautiful lowers: it’s about sharing hope for a world free of cancer.  77% of Americans have either a family member or close friend who has been diagnosed with cancer.  The first flower of spring is the flower of hope.  Cancer is everywhere.  It can strike anyone without discrimination to age, sex, color or status.  Some cancers are very treatable, other cancers have poor prognosis.  Research will help find treatments and cures.  Education will improve early diagnosis.  Each day new hope for the many types of cancer is explored.  Support Daffodil Days on Sunday, March 25^th.

Yams, Yams, Yams – Easter is right around the corner and we have been requested to provide 300 containers of yams or sweet potatoes to the Northern Lehigh Food Bank for their Easter distribution.  Canned or boxes of instant sweet potatoes will be delivered by our volunteers on Friday March 30^th.  All donations can be placed in or around the grocery cart in the Gathering Space.  Thank you in advance to everyone who keeps the grocery cart full.  You are a blessing to the hungry.

Easter Egg Hunt – Everyone is invited to the annual Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday, March 31^st, at 1:00 PM on the church lawn (inclement weather date April 7^th).  The Easter Egg Hunt is open to kids ages 0-12.  There will also be an Adult Egg Toss.  The Easter Bunny will be there to greet us and pose for pictures.  So that we have plenty of eggs and prizes for everyone, it is very important that you register for the Egg Hunt.  To register, please either fill out the registration sheet next to the big orange box in the Gathering Space, fill out a Ministry Response Card (please check line #2) or contact the church office (office@ulclv.org or 610-767-6884).  We need the name of each child and their age.  Donations of wrapped candy and prizes for the hunt are needed (chocolate bunnies, crayons, books, etc.)  If you do not want to purchase anything, a monetary donation can be made and we will do the shopping.  Plastic eggs are NOT needed.  Please place your donations in the box in the Gathering Space by March 25^th.

First Communion Instruction – Our congregation has opened its Altar or communion fellowship to children in First Grade or above.  Bringing children into the communing fellowship has offered families the opportunity to share the Lord’s Supper and has brought more meaning to the children’s presence and participation in worship.  During the Lenten season of a child’s First Grade experience, classes for preparation to receive communion are held.  Instruction for all non-communing children who are in First Grade or older is scheduled for March 18^th, 25^h (4:30-5:30 PM) and April 1^st (4:30-6:30 PM).  Students must attend all 3 classes.  To register, use the Ministry Response Card (please check line #1) and place in the offering plate.  If you have any questions, please contact either the pastor or the church office.

The Learning Ark Christian Preschool –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.

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.

Stewardship Committee – Mortgage Fast Facts Our monthly mortgage payment started out at $13,021.91 – as of February 2012 – our monthly payment is $3,834.42 – a savings of $9,187.49 per month.  Stay tuned for more good news from our Stewardship Committee! 

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.

Men, Save the Date: April 28, 2012 - Plan a day of fun, service, fellowship and leaning about Christ by doing.  This is an opportunity to spend a day with other men of the church to engage in conversation, meet new friends, help others and grow in Christ.  No experience necessary, just set the day aside and prepare for an adventure.  See you then. 

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.

Ministry Response Cards are available in the pew racks.  Please use these cards to correspond the following information to the church office:  change of address/phone and indicating areas in which you would like to have more information.  The card will also serve as a way to make reservations for church events and a way to order items.

Funsters – Tuesday, March 13, Bach @ Noon - A Choral concert at the Central Moravian church, 40 W. Church St., Bethlehem followed by a late lunch at the Olive Garden in Whitehall.

Doors open at 11:30 AM/Concert begins at 12:10 PM.  A free-will offering can be made.  Contact the Stangle’s (610-261-0416/funsters.ulc@verizon.net) if you are planning to attend.

Friday, March 16, Jazz Cabaret/Dance at Symphony Hall in Allentown: Opening Act: Lehigh County Executive, Don Cunningham and His Cabinet & Feature Act: the Rob Stoneback Big Band.  In celebration of Allentown’s 250^th anniversary and the 200^th anniversary of Lehigh County, join the fun by dancing on the stage of Symphony Hall in downtown Allentown.  The program begins at 7:30 PM (doors open at 7:00) in the main concert hall.  Cost: $22 per person (includes concert & light fare).  Box office is opened Monday to Friday 10AM to 2PM. Interested parties can make reservations by calling the box office directly at 610-432-6715.  Contact the Stangle’s:610-261-0416/funsters.ulc@verizon.net) by Monday, March 12 if you plan to attend so that we can make table reservations for the group.

Sunday, March 25, Brooklyn Tabernacle:  We will attend the worship service of the renowned church located in downtown Brooklyn.  The service starts at 12:00 P.M., and includes the service, choir and sermon of the day.  After the service, a stop will be made at the Clinton Station Diner in Clinton, NJ for dinner at your own expense.  Perkiomen Tours provides the transportation for this event at a cost of $44 per person.  Departure is from Perkiomen’s pick up point in Bethlehem at 8:45 AM with a return expected at 7 P.M.  Contact Roy Bottjer (610-395-6867) no later than Friday March 11 for information/reservations.

Tuesday, May 8 – Jonah at Sight & Sound Theater and dinner at Shady Maple.  (This is a date change from a previous announcement.)  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.  For reservations and/or additional information, contact Jake Hammond at 610-799-0192 ASAP (shows are selling out quickly).  There is also a Back Stage Tour available (10:00 AM for $19).  Money due to Jake no later than April 8.

During Lent we will be meeting on Wednesday evenings for an additional time of fellowship, food and worship.  Soup and bread will be served in the Family Life Center from 6:00 – 6:30 PM.  Each evening a freewill offering will be received to help defray the cost of the meal.  At 7:00 PM we will gather in the Nave for worship with those who could not make the meal joining us.  We will again use the Holden Village Evening Prayer Service—a congregation favorite.  Soups for February 29^th will be Old Fashion Cabbage, Minestrone and Cream of Potato (subject to change without prior notice).

Paper Prayers Card Ministry – Beginning March 4 we will be meeting the 1^st and 3^rd Sundays of every month in room 107 at 9:15 AM.  If you are interested in creating cards and other items from home or joining us on a Sunday morning, please come to the meeting on March 4^th in room 107.

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. 

Free Health Magazines in Health Services Office (Room 208) – Are you looking for some free health magazines (Prevention Guides) Healthy Woman, Walking Fit, Weight Loss, Outsmart Diabetes & Get Fit at Home & Fit over 40?  We have many copies, so stop by and help yourself to some free healthy tips.  Magazines can be found on the bookcase to your right as you enter the office.  If you have any questions, check with Dottie or Jane.

The Learning Ark Christian Preschool –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.

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.

Yams, Yams, Yams - Easter is right around the corner and we have been requested to provide 300 containers of yams or sweet potatoes to the Northern Lehigh Food Bank for their Easter distribution.  Canned or boxes of instant sweet potatoes will be delivered by our volunteers on Friday March 30^th.  All donations can be placed in or around the grocery cart in the Gathering Space.  Thank you in advance to everyone who keeps the grocery cart full.  You are a blessing to the hungry.

Daffodil Days 2012 On Sunday, March 25^th the flower of hope for cancer patients will be for sale for $10.00 a bunch.  50 bunches will be available after the first service.  Celebrating Daffodil Days is much more than enjoying beautiful lowers: it’s about sharing hope for a world free of cancer.77% of Americans have either a family member or close friend who has been diagnosed with cancer.  The first flower of spring is the flower of hope.  Cancer is everywhere.  It can strike anyone without discrimination to age, sex, color or status.  Some cancers are very treatable, other cancers have poor prognosis.  Research will help find treatments and cures.  Education will improve early diagnosis.  Each day new hope for the many types of cancer is explored.  Support Daffodil Days on Sunday, March 25^th.

First Communion Instruction – Our congregation has opened its Altar or communion fellowship to children in First Grade or above.  Bringing children into the communing fellowship has offered families the opportunity to share the Lord’s Supper and has brought more meaning to the children’s presence and participation in worship.  During the Lenten season of a child’s First Grade experience, classes for preparation to receive communion are held.  Instruction for all non-communing children who are in First Grade or older is scheduled for March 18^th, 25^h and April 1^st  (all Sundays).  Students must attend all 3 classes.  To register, use the Ministry Response Card (please check line #1) and place in the offering plate.  If you have any questions, please contact either the pastor or the church office.

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.

Women’s Bible Study – Are you looking to find out how God wants you to Shine?  Then you might like to join us for An Inspirational Bible Study “You’re Designed to Shine“.  We will learn how God wants us to become all that He has designed us to be during this six session study.  The Bible Study will begin on Thursday, March 1^st at 6:30 PM in Room 101 and continue to meet every other Thursday at the same time and in the same room, the last session being on Thursday, May 10^th.  Come for one session or all six.  Fun and laughter will surely be a part of these gatherings.  In order to have enough supplies for everyone, please contact Lois Steward at 610-767-5808 or steward3831@verizon.net to reserve your journal copy needed for the Bible study.  There is an $8.00 cost for the journal, payable at the first session.  Girls and Women of all ages are encouraged to join us to find out how “You’re Designed to Shine”.  Can’t wait to see you all on March 1^st!!!

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.

Stewardship Committee – Mortgage Fast Facts In 2001, our mortgage balance was $1,976,588.27.  As of December 2011, it was $625,209.29 – a reduction of $1,351,378.98.  Stay tuned for more good news from our Stewardship Committee!

Funsters – Friday, March 16, Jazz Cabaret/Dance at Symphony Hall in Allentown: Opening Act: Lehigh County Executive, Don Cunningham and His Cabinet & Feature Act: the Rob Stoneback Big Band.  In celebration of Allentown’s 250th anniversary and the 200th anniversary of Lehigh County, join the fun by dancing on the stage of Symphony Hall in downtown Allentown.  The program begins at 7:30 PM (doors open at 7:00) in the main concert hall.  Cost: $22 per person (includes concert & light fare).  Box office is opened Monday to Friday 10AM to 2PM. Interested parties can make reservations by calling the box office directly at 610-432-6715.  Contact the Stangle’s:610-261-0416/funsters.ulc@verizon.net) by Monday, March 12 if you plan to attend so that we can make table reservations for the group.  Sunday, March 25, Brooklyn Tabernacle:  We will attend the worship service of the renowned church located in downtown Brooklyn.  The service starts at 12:00 PM, and includes the service, choir and sermon of the day.  After the service, we will stop at the Clinton Station Diner in Clinton, NJ for dinner at your own expense.  Perkiomen Tours provides the transportation for this event at a cost of $44 per person.  Departure is from Perkiomen’s pick up point in Bethlehem at 8:45 AM with a return expected at 7:00 PM.  Make your reservations with Perkiomen (215-679-4434, and indicate that you are with the Funsters so we can sit together.  Please let Roy Bottjer (610-395-6867) know that you have made reservations.  Tuesday, May 8 – Jonah at Sight & Sound Theater and dinner at Shady Maple.  (This is a date change from a previous announcement.)  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.  For reservations and/or additional information, contact Jake Hammond at 610-799-0192 ASAP (shows are selling out quickly).  There is also a Back Stage Tour available (10:00 AM for $19).  Money due to Jake no later than April 8.

The youth of our church are collecting items 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. 

Ministry Response Cards are available in the pew racks.  Please use these cards to correspond the following information to the church office:  change of address/phone and indicating areas in which you would like to have more information.  The card will also serve as a way to make reservations for church events and a way to order items.

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: Sodl Family

Reception of New Members – This morning we welcome the following new members into our Parish Family:

8:00 AM worship service

10:45 AM worship service

Paper Prayers Card Ministry – Beginning March 4 we will be meeting the 1^st and 3^rd Sundays of every month in room 107.  If you are interested in creating cards and other items from home or joining us on a Sunday morning, please come to the meeting on Sunday, March 4^th in room 107.

Congratulations to Soup/Dessert Cook-off winners.  There was a 3 way tie for first place for the soup:  Jane Borbe’s Seafood Chowder, Patti Hoffman’s Cheeseburger Soup and Gloria Scheetz’s Italian Wedding Soup.  Dessert: Donna Andersen’s Chocolate Covered Strawberries.

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.

Shrove Tuesday will be observed on Tuesday, February 21 with a worship service at 7:00 PM in the nave followed by a time of fellowship and fastnachts.  All the ingredients should be brought to the church today.  We will also need volunteers to make the dough on Monday, February 20 at 1:00 PM and then fry the fastnachts on Tuesday, February 21 after the worship service.  If you would like to volunteer, please use the sign-up sheet posted on the bulletin board.

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

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.

Ash Wednesday Worship Service, February 22 at 7:00 PM.  There will be imposition of ashes and Holy Communion.

Free Health Magazines in Health Services Office (Room 208) – Are you looking for some free health magazines (Prevention Guides) Healthy Woman, Walking Fit, Weight Loss, Outsmart Diabetes & Get Fit at Home & Fit over 40?  We have many copies, so stop by and help yourself to some free healthy tips.  Magazines can be found on the bookcase to your right as you enter the office.  If you have any questions, check with Dottie or Jane.

ULC reaches out to our community and beyond!!  In 2012 so far, our church family has spread love by:

Sponsoring 126 blankets for Blanket Sunday;

raising over $430 for World Hunger at last week’s Soup Off;

making the pots ring to a total of $1179.34 from our Loud Offering.

Way to go ULC!  Thanks for your support. 

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.

Tuesday, May 8 – Jonah at Sight & Sound Theater and dinner at Shady Maple.  (This is a date change from a previous announcement.)  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.  For reservations and/or additional information, contact Jake Hammond at 610-799-0192 ASAP (shows are selling out quickly).  There is also a Back Stage Tour available (10:00 AM for $19).  Money due to Jake no later than April 8.

 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.

Yams, Yams, Yams - Easter is right around the corner and we have been requested to provide 300 containers of yams or sweet potatoes to the Northern Lehigh Food Bank for their Easter distribution.  Canned or boxes of instant sweet potatoes will be delivered by our volunteers on Friday March 30^th.  All donations can be placed in or around the grocery cart in the Gathering Space.  Thank you in advance to everyone who keeps the grocery cart full.  You are a blessing to the hungry.

Women’s Bible Study – Are you looking to find out how God wants you to Shine?  Then you might like to join us for An Inspirational Bible Study “You’re Designed to Shine“.  We will learn how God wants us to become all that He has designed us to be during this six session study.  The Bible Study will begin on Thursday, March 1^st at 6:30 PM in Room 101 and continue to meet every other Thursday at the same time and in the same room, the last session being on Thursday, May 10^th.  Come for one session or all six.  Fun and laughter will surely be a part of these gatherings.  In order to have enough supplies for everyone, please contact Lois Steward at 610-767-5808 or steward3831@verizon.net to reserve your journal copy needed for the Bible study.  There is an $8.00 cost for the journal, payable at the first session.  Girls and Women of all ages are encouraged to join us to find out how “You’re Designed to Shine”.  Can’t wait to see you all on March 1^st!!!

What happens when you ask for help from a Stephen Minister?  A Stephen Leader will contact you to talk more about Stephen Ministry and what it can mean to you.  If your needs can be best served by a Stephen Minister, you will be matched with someone who will support you through your tough time.  Confidentiality is a top priority for Stephen Ministers.  You do not need to be concerned that other people will discover what you talk about with your Stephen Minister.  There is no need to walk alone.  We have a dedicated team in place to help you.  Contact the office to speak with a Stephen Minister.

Stewardship Committee – Mortgage Fast Facts  In 2001, our mortgage balance was $1,976,588.27.  As of December 2011, it was $625,209.29 – a reduction of $1,351,378.98.  Stay tuned for more good news from our Stewardship Committee!

Sunday Morning Fellowship – Thank you to today’s host: Fellowship – Chocolate Social

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.

Second Notice of Congregational Meeting – The Bi-Annual Congregational Meeting will be held on February 19^th at the conclusion of the 10:45 AM Worship Service.  This will be an open agenda meeting.  Please plan to attend.

Paper Prayers Card Ministry – Beginning March 4 we will be meeting the 1^st and 3^rd Sundays of every month in room 107.  If you are interested in creating cards and other items from home or joining us on a Sunday morning, please come to the meeting on Sunday, March 4^th in room 107.

Congratulations to Soup/Dessert Cook-off winners.  There was a 3 way tie for first place for the soup:  Jane Borbe’s Seafood Chowder, Patti Hoffman’s Cheeseburger Soup and Gloria Scheetz’s Italian Wedding Soup.  Dessert: Donna Andersen’s Chocolate Covered Strawberries.

Preschool @ ULC!  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.

Parish Nurses’ Hours – The parish nurses are in the office today during the Christian Education time slot and after the 10:45 AM Worship Service.  Join them 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.

Parent and Me Sunday School Class will be held on Sundays, beginning on February 26 and continuing through April 1, 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.

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.

Shrove Tuesday will be observed on Tuesday, February 21 with a worship service at 7:00 PM in the nave followed by a time of fellowship and fastnachts.  If you would be willing to provide some of the ingredients for the fastnachts, please use the sign-up sheet posted on the bulletin board.  All the ingredients should be brought to the church by Sunday, February 19.  We will also need volunteers to make the dough on Monday, February 20 at 1:00 PM and then fry the fastnachts on Tuesday, February 21 after the worship service.  If you would like to volunteer, please use the sign-up sheet posted on the bulletin board.

February Elementary Youth Group Meeting – Please join us for our at the Roxy Movie Theater in Northampton at 1:00 PM on Friday the 17^th.  This is a day off for Parkland School District and a half a day in other districts.  Cost is $3.00 per person for the movie “Chipwrecked” and each EYG child will receive a free popcorn and drink (valued at $3.75).  After the movie we will tour the Roxy Theater and see the many hidden treasures in this historic building!  We are looking for at least one parent from each family to stay and provide child care for your children during the movie and tour.  If you have any questions or concerns, please contact David and Kandy Lang at kandykandy033@yahoo.com 

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

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.

Save the date – ULC night at the IronPigs is scheduled for Saturday, August 18^th @ 7:00??  There will be fireworks.  Watch for more information in the newsletter and future bulletins.

Stephen Ministry – The deadline for applications for the Spring Stephen Ministry Class is Sat. Feb. 19.  Interviews must be scheduled and materials ordered.  If anyone has questions, please contact Joan Fredericks or Irene Folk.

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.  

Tuesday, February 14, Bach at Noon – Join the Funsters for a choral concert at the Central Moravian Church, 40 W. Church St., Bethlehem followed by a late lunch at the Olive Garden in Whitehall.  Doors open at 11:30 AM and the concert begins at 12:10 PM.  (Free-will offering).

Calling all Corn Hole (Bean Bag) Players – Our next scheduled evening of games is February 15 (Wednesday) at 7:00 PM in the Family Life Center.  Fellows, please join us for a fun evening as we play our invited guest team from Union UCC.  If you have any questions, please call Ron Bealer at 610-730-1060.

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.

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.

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.

Tuesday, May 8 – Jonah at Sight & Sound Theater and dinner at Shady Maple.  (This is a date change from a previous announcement.)  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.  For reservations and/or additional information, contact Jake Hammond at 610-799-0192 ASAP (shows are selling out quickly).  There is also a Back Stage Tour available (10:00 AM for $19).  Money due to Jake no later than April 8.

ULC reaches out to our community and beyond!!  In 2012 so far, our church family has spread love by:

Sponsoring 126 blankets for Blanket Sunday;

raising over $430 for World Hunger at last week’s Soup Off;

making the pots ring to a total of $1179.34 from our Loud Offering.

Way to go ULC!  Thanks for your support.

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 

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.