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.

Union Lutheran Day at Knoebels Grove, Elysburg PA - On Sunday, June 10, 2012 our congregation is going to Knoebels Grove for the day.  Free Admission.  Free Parking.  Park opens at 11:00 AM and closes at 10:00 PM.  Families come and go as you like.  The Fellowship Committee has reserved Pavilion H for us to use.  You can let things like coolers, jackets etc at the pavilion.  At 5:00 PM the congregation will gather at Pavilion H to eat and have Evening Vespers.  Bring your own dinner or get something in the park and join us.  Ice cream will be provided for dessert.  The Fellowship Committee will have ice tea, water and lemonade available throughout the day for free.  So stop by Pavilion H and get a refill.  Chips and pretzels will also be available.  More trip and park information will be available shortly.  Visit the information table in the Gathering Space to sign up.  

Funeral Luncheon help needed - We are looking for people who are available during the day to assist with serving funeral luncheons.  You would be asked to help set up the buffet line, refill dishes and help with clean up.  For more information, or to put your name on the volunteer list, please contact the church office.

Union Lutheran’s Softball Team’s Games Begin - Our softball team is in full swing!  All the games are played on Sunday evenings through July and it is not too late to join the team.  Anyone (male and female), high school age and above, is welcome to play.  If you don’t play but like to watch, you are needed to come and cheer the team on to victory.  All games are played at the North Whitehall Township and Kolapecha Park fields (in North Whitehall) at 6:00 PM.  For more information, or to register for the team, call Sean Rennolds at 484-553-1376.

Thank you to the congregation.  Because of your Lenten self-denial envelopes, our congregation was able to donate $747.50 to both the Habitat for Humanity in Lehigh Valley and The Northern Lehigh Food Bank.

Book Club - Sunday, June 3 at 9:15 AM we will discuss the book The Thief by Clive Cussler.  Two European scientists with a new invention that will revolutionize business and popular culture are rescued by Isaac Bell a heroic chief investigator.  The 2^nd attempt on their lives is not so successful.  Can Isaac Bell figure out who the ruthless agent is & keep him from putting the world in jeopardy?

“Sky VBS”…..Volunteers are needed to help build the set!  Not artistic, not handy….not to worry!  Set building for VBS is easy!  We will be meeting at Jordan Lutheran Church (5103 Snowdrift Road, Orefield) in their Family Center on Tuesday evenings from 7:00-9:00 PM, through May 29^th.  If needed, we will also meet on Tuesday, June 5^th.  If you can help, please complete a volunteer registration form online at ulclv.org (click on the “Sky VBS” logo to access the form) or email Jackie Bucks at mrscello@hotmail.com.

“Smile awhile” as a greeter when you welcome folks to worship before the 10:45 AM worship service.  If you are willing and able, please call the church office, or Judy Gifford 610-767-0372, to volunteer.  You are needed!

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.

Funster Activities – Friday, June 15 – Wine Tasting: @ Galen Glen Vineyard & Winery in Andreas from 1 to 3 PM.  There is a $5/person tasting fee that is refundable with a purchase.  Contact Jake Hammond (610-799-0192) for additional information/reservations.  Wednesday, June 27, New York Botanical Gardens, Bronx, NY:  This is a museum of plants and a National Historic Landmark situated on 250 acres which include gardens, shrubs, trees and plant collections.  Included in the tour is a special exhibit “Monet’s Gardens” inspired by the French artist.  Perkiomen provides the roundtrip transportation at a cost of $65 per person, with the bus leaving their Bethlehem facility at 8:30 AM and returning about 8:00 PM.  Please make your reservations directly with Perkiomen (215-679-4434), and advise Roy Bottjer at 610-395-6867 that you plan to attend.

Don’t Miss the Boat….The Learning Ark Christian Preschool Sets Sail on September 10, 2012!!!!  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.  Our school offers a Bible-based curriculum teaching Christian values as well as traditional academics, music, art and physical education.  Classes are starting to fill, so register now!  Forms are available in the office and online at www.ulclv.org.  Come check us out at our Open House on June 6 from 10:00 AM-12:00 Noon or from 6:30-8:30 PM 

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.

Visit the Fair Trade Cart – There are tasty chocolate, full-bodied coffee, refreshing tea products awaiting you at the Fair Trade Cart in the Gathering Space.  Don’t miss the opportunity to treat yourself while assisting the needy growers.

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.

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

10:45 AM worship service

Synod Delegates Needed – Would you like to see our synod at work?  Why not volunteer to be a delegate to this year’s Synod Assembly on June 15-16 at the Sovereign Center in Reading.  We need 1 male and 1 female delegate to represent our congregation.  All your expenses will be paid.  For more information or to volunteer, please contact the church office as soon as possible.

Union Lutheran Day at Knoebels Grove, Elysburg PA - On Sunday, June 10, 2012 our congregation is going to Knoebels Grove for the day.  Free Admission.  Free Parking.  Park opens at 11:00 AM and closes at 10:00 PM.  Families come and go as you like.  The Fellowship Committee has reserved Pavilion H for us to use.  You can let things like coolers, jackets etc at the pavilion.  At 5:00 PM the congregation will gather at Pavilion H to eat and have Evening Vespers.  Bring your own dinner or get something in the park and join us.  Ice cream will be provided for dessert.  The Fellowship Committee will have ice tea, water and lemonade available throughout the day for free.  So stop by Pavilion H and get a refill.  Chips and pretzels will also be available.  More trip and park information will be available shortly.  Visit the information table in the hall way to sign up.

Funeral Luncheon help needed - We are looking for people who are available during the day to assist with serving funeral luncheons.  You would be asked to help set up the buffet line, refill dishes and help with clean up.  For more information, or to put your name on the volunteer list, please contact the church office 

Union Lutheran’s Softball Team’s Games Begin Today - Our softball team is in full swing!  All the games are played on Sunday evenings through July and it is not too late to join the team.  Anyone (male and female), high school age and above, is welcome to play.  If you don’t play but like to watch, you are needed to come and cheer the team on to victory.  All games are played at the North Whitehall Township and Kolapecha Park fields (in North Whitehall) at 6:00 PM.  For more information, or to register for the team, call Sean Rennolds at 484-553-1376. 

Book Club - Sunday, June 3 at 9:15 AM we will discuss the book The Thief by Clive Cussler.  Two European scientists with a new invention that will revolutionize business and popular culture are rescued by Isaac Bell a heroic chief investigator.  The 2^nd attempt on their lives is not so successful.  Can Isaac Bell figure out who the ruthless agent is & keep him from putting the world in jeopardy?

JY/SY Group is planning their “Night On The Move”.  What is Night On The Move, you might ask?  It is when the crazy youth leaders take your youth all night long and stay up and do activities.  It is planned for May 11^th.  The cost is $25 per child (the youth group picks up the remainder) The agenda is written as follows (but is not written in stone)

6:00 PM drop your youth at the church

6:15 Chuckie Cheese- where you will get 2 slices of pizza a soda and 14 tokens.  (If you want

more than 14 tokens, please bring your own money.)

7:30 – we will be heading to the Lehigh Valley Mall for a digital scavenger hunt.

8:30 – Planet Trog – where we will play 2 games of laser tag.  (If you want to play video games,

again bring your own money.)

10:30 AMC to the Movies – we will decide what we are going to see when we get there.

1:00 AM – Jordan Lanes – 2 games of bowling, one hot dog, popcorn and a soda.

2:30 – we will be going to a grocery store – where you will break up into groups and have to buy a

complete meal for a family of 4 for $10.  (This meal will be sent to the food bank.)

3:30 – back to the church for a game of basketball and possible tee-shirt making.

4:30 – to the Whitehall Diner for breakfast.

6:00 – returning back to the church for pick -up.

Please let us know as soon as possible if your child is attending as we have to plan drivers and reserve activities.  If you have any questions, you can call Lisa @ 610-767-6421.

Stephen Ministry – Our Stephen Ministry Team would like to thank everyone who stopped by our table at the Health Fair.  Members of the congregation have picked up applications at one of our tables.  Please return all applications by May 13.  We will then contact you to set up an interview.  Thank you to everyone for your interest and your prayers.

“Smile awhile” as a greeter when you welcome folks to worship before the 10:45 AM worship service.  If you are willing and able, please call the church office, or Judy Gifford 610-767-0372, to volunteer.  You are needed!

 “Sky VBS”…..Volunteers are needed to help build the set!  Not artistic, not handy….not to worry!  Set building for VBS is easy!  We will be meeting at Jordan Lutheran Church (5103 Snowdrift Road, Orefield) in their Family Center on Tuesday evenings from 7:00-9:00 PM, through May 29^th.  If needed, we will also meet on Tuesday, June 5^th.  If you can help, please complete a volunteer registration form online at ulclv.org (click on the “Sky VBS” logo to access the form) or email Jackie Bucks at mrscello@hotmail.com. 

Don’t Miss the Boat….The Learning Ark Christian Preschool Sets Sail on September 10, 2012!!!!  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.  Our school offers a Bible-based curriculum teaching Christian values as well as traditional academics, music, art and physical education.  Classes are starting to fill, so register now!  Forms are available in the office and online at www.ulclv.org.

Visit the Fair Trade Cart – There are tasty chocolate, full-bodied coffee, refreshing tea products awaiting you at the Fair Trade Cart in the Gathering Space.  Don’t miss the opportunity to treat yourself while assisting the needy growers.

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 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.

Visit the Health Fair today from 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM in the FLC.  Topics will include:  American Cancer Society Relay for Life, Stephen Ministry, Therapy Dogs, Area Agency for Aging, Luther Crest (occupational therapy, personal care and assisted living), Fire Safety, Dental Health, Breast Health, Wills & Living Wills, Proper Hand Washing, Blood Pressure Screening and Body Mass Index.

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 information and registration forms.

Mother/Daughter Dinner Goes South of the Border - On Saturday, May 5^th from 5:00-7:00 PM (doors open at 4:30 PM), all Mothers and Daughters of the congregation are invited to join The Journeymen in the ULC Family Life Center for a South of the Border Dinner and Entertainment Adventure!  It’s sure to be a great night of food, fellowship and fun, so get your tickets early.  Due to space limitations, only 200 tickets will be sold.  Come join us for a night out where the men do the cooking and cleaning for you!  Tickets may be purchased in person in the church office during regular business hours until sold out.  Unfortunately, due to high demand, tickets may only be purchased in person.  Please, no tickets will be reserved.  The cost is $7.00, but if any man in your life helps out at the dinner, you will receive a $2 rebate (One rebate per ticket)!!!  Hope to see you there!

Men of the Congregation: Help Needed for Mother/Daughter Dinner - On Saturday May 5^th, from 4:30 to 7:00 PM The Journeymen, the Men’s Ministry Group of Union Lutheran Church, will once again honor all ladies of our congregation by hosting The 2012 Mother/Daughter Dinner.  And, as always, we need help from the men of the congregation to make it happen!  Male volunteers of all ages are needed in two areas: 1. Kitchen Helpers: Need to report at 9am to the Family Life Center on Sat. May 5 for the early help session, and/or 4pm for the late help session.  2. Waiters: Need to report to the Family Life Center on Sat. May 5 at 4:00pm.  Please wear clothing matching our “South of the Border” theme.  (Mexican/Southwestern/Colorful Shirt and Jeans works!)  Please consider spending a few hours of fellowship and fun with other men of the congregation at this popular event on May 5^th.  And ladies, a $2 rebate of the ticket price is yours if any man in your life helps out at the dinner!  (One rebate per ticket.)  So we know how many volunteers to expect, please sign-up as soon as possible on the sheet posted on the Journeymen Bulletin Board in the hallway just outside the Church’s Gathering Space.  It is only through the help of many men volunteers that we are able to continue this special tradition.  Thank you all in advance

Women’s Cafe will be getting together on Sunday, May 6, following the 10:45 AM worship service.  This date change is due to the fact that the second Sunday is Mother’s Day.  We will have a speaker from our Stephen’s Ministry sharing what they have to offer during our time together.  This month we will enjoy baked potatoes, so bring along your favorite toppings (don’t be afraid to be creative with the toppings).  A list will be posted on our bulletin board in the hallway off the Gathering Space to sign up for the topping you will share and also to know the number of potatoes we will need.  Mark your calendars for our June get together which has also been moved to June 3, 2012, due to the Knoebels Event on June 10, 2012.  Look for more information on this meeting toward the end of May.

“Sky VBS”…..Volunteers are needed to help build the set!  Not artistic, not handy….not to worry!  Set building for VBS is easy!  We will be meeting at Jordan Lutheran Church (5103 Snowdrift Road, Orefield) in their Family Center on Tuesday evenings from 7:00-9:00 PM, May 1^st through May 29^th.  If needed, we will also meet on Tuesday, June 5^th.  If you can help, please complete a volunteer registration form online at ulclv.org (click on the “Sky VBS” logo to access the form) or email Jackie Bucks at mrscello@hotmail.com.

Stephen Ministry – Our team is recruiting for the rest of the month of April.  We are looking for both male and female candidates for our ministry.  Applications are in the Gathering Space.  Look for us at the Health Fair today.  Our ministers are ready to help members of ULC who are going through a Life Crisis.  If you would like to use our services, contact Pastor Moore.

“Smile awhile” as a greeter when you welcome folks to worship before the 10:45 AM Sunday worship service.  If you are willing and able, please call the church office, or Judy Gifford 610-767-0372, to volunteer.  You are needed!

Sunday School To Make Rock Garden – On Sunday, May 6, the Sunday School students are to bring in a rock that they can paint for our Sunday School rock garden.  At least one side of the rock should be flat and it should not be bigger than they can carry.  Please have your child dress appropriately for painting or have them bring a smock.  They will meet in their classrooms and the teachers will bring them to the craft room.  On May 13^th the children will take their rocks outside so that we may build our garden for the congregation to enjoy.

Visit the Fair Trade Cart – There are tasty chocolate, full-bodied coffee, refreshing tea products awaiting you at the Fair Trade Cart in the Gathering Space.  Don’t miss the opportunity to treat yourself while assisting the needy growers.

Don’t Miss the Boat….The Learning Ark Christian Preschool Sets Sail on September 10, 2012!!!!  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.  Our school offers a Bible-based curriculum teaching Christian values as well as traditional academics, music, art and physical education.  Classes are starting to fill, so register now!  Forms are available in the office and online at www.ulclv.org.

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.

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.

For more information, email:  ulcholidaycrafts@verizon.net

Attention Crafters: 

• 6’ x 8’ indoor space;
• Table will be provided (30” by 8’)
• $30 nonrefundable; $35 with electric
• Event will be well advertised
• No retailing

Since this is a juried show, all items must be hand-crafted by the displaying crafter.  Contact Promoter, Larry Snyder at 610-767-2410 or ulcholidaycrafts@verizon.net for consideration.

Mother/Daughter Dinner Goes South of the Border - On Saturday, May 5^th from 5:00-7:00 PM (doors open at 4:30 PM), all Mothers and Daughters of the congregation are invited to join The Journeymen in the ULC Family Life Center for a South of the Border Dinner and Entertainment Adventure!  It’s sure to be a great night of food, fellowship and fun, so get your tickets early.  Due to space limitations, only 200 tickets will be sold.  Come join us for a night out where the men do the cooking and cleaning for you!  Tickets will be on sale in the ULC Gathering Space Hallway before and after both services today.  Tickets may also be purchased in person in the church office during regular business hours until sold out.  Unfortunately, due to high demand, tickets may only be purchased in person.  Please, no tickets will be reserved.  The cost is $7.00, but if any man in your life helps out at the dinner, you will receive a $2 rebate (One rebate per ticket)!!!  Hope to see you there!

Women’s Cafe will be getting together on Sunday, May 6, following the 10:45 AM worship service.  This date change is due to the fact that the second Sunday is Mother’s Day.  We will have a speaker from our Stephen’s Ministry sharing what they have to offer during our time together.  This month we will enjoy baked potatoes, so bring along your favorite toppings (don’t be afraid to be creative with the toppings).  A list will be posted on our bulletin board in the hallway off the gathering space to sign up for the topping you will share and also to know the number of potatoes we will need.  Mark your calendars for our June get together which has also been moved to June 3, 2012, due to the Knoebels Event on June 10, 2012.  Look for more information on this meeting toward the end of May. 

“Sky VBS”…..Volunteers are needed to help build the set!  Not artistic, not handy….not to worry!  Set building for VBS is easy!  We will be meeting at Jordan Lutheran Church (5103 Snowdrift Road, Orefield) in their Family Center on Tuesday evenings from 7:00-9:00 PM, May 1^st through May 29^th.  If needed, we will also meet on Tuesday, June 5^th.  If you can help, please complete a volunteer registration form online at ulclv.org (click on the “Sky VBS” logo to access the form) or email Jackie Bucks at mrscello@hotmail.com.

Stephen Ministry – Our team is recruiting for the rest of the month of April.  We are looking for both male and female candidates for our ministry.  Applications are in the Gathering Space.  Look for us at the Health Fair on April 29.  Our ministers are ready to help members of ULC who are going through a Life Crisis.  If you would like to use our services, contact Pastor Moore. 

Thank you to everyone who helped on work day.  We had 26 people here working to maintain our property.  From the Property Committee 

Visit the Health Fair on April 29 from 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM in the FLC.  Topics will include:  American Cancer Society Relay for Life, Stephen Ministry, Therapy Dogs, Area Agency for Aging, Luther Crest (occupational therapy, personal care and assisted living), Fire Safety, Dental Health, Breast Health, Wills & Living Wills, Proper Hand Washing, Blood Pressure Screening and Body Mass Index.

Men of the Congregation: Help Needed for Mother/Daughter Dinner - On Saturday May 5^th, from 4:30 to 7:00 PM The Journeymen, the Men’s Ministry Group of Union Lutheran Church, will once again honor all ladies of our congregation by hosting The 2012 Mother/Daughter Dinner.  And, as always, we need help from the men of the congregation to make it happen!  Male volunteers of all ages are needed in two areas: 1. Kitchen Helpers: Need to report at 9am to the Family Life Center on Sat. May 5 for the early help session, and/or 4pm for the late help session.  2. Waiters: Need to report to the Family Life Center on Sat. May 5 at 4:00pm.  Please wear clothing matching our “South of the Border” theme.  (Mexican/Southwestern/Colorful Shirt and Jeans works!)  Please consider spending a few hours of fellowship and fun with other men of the congregation at this popular event on May 5^th.  And ladies, a $2 rebate of the ticket price is yours if any man in your life helps out at the dinner!  (One rebate per ticket.)  So we know how many volunteers to expect, please sign-up as soon as possible on the sheet posted on the Journeymen Bulletin Board in the hallway just outside the Church’s Gathering Space.  It is only through the help of many men volunteers that we are able to continue this special tradition.  Thank you all in advance!

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 on Saturday April 28 (7:00 AM-4:45 PM).  It’s an opportunity to spend the day with other men of the congregation, engage in conversation, meet new friends, help others and grow in Christ.  The retreat takes place at the Veterans Sanctuary (24 S.5th St., Allentown).  This community based treatment center is dedicated to serving the veterans and providing support for families.  It exclusively serves veterans from across Pennsylvania and their families.  We will incorporate a service project into the first half of the retreat, performing some light painting in their gym.  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).  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 Retreat.  You’ll both be glad he did!  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 today.  Hope to see you there!    

“Smile awhile” as a greeter when you welcome folks to worship before the 10:45 AM Sunday worship service.  If you are willing and able, please call the church office, or Judy Gifford 610-767-0372, to volunteer.  You are needed!

Sunday School To Make Rock Garden – On Sunday, May 6, the Sunday School students are to bring in a rock that they can paint for our Sunday School rock garden.  At least one side of the rock should be flat and it should not be bigger than they can carry.  Please have your child dress appropriately for painting or have them bring a smock.  They will meet in their classrooms and the teachers will bring them to the craft room.  On May 13^th the children will take their rocks outside so that we may build our garden for the congregation to enjoy.

Visit the Fair Trade Cart – There are tasty chocolate, full-bodied coffee, refreshing tea products awaiting you at the Fair Trade Cart in the Gathering Space.  Don’t miss the opportunity to treat yourself while assisting the needy growers 

Don’t Miss the Boat….The Learning Ark Christian Preschool Sets Sail on September 10, 2012!!!!  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.  Our school offers a Bible-based curriculum teaching Christian values as well as traditional academics, music, art and physical education.  Classes are starting to fill, so register now!  Forms are available in the office and online at www.ulclv.org.

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.

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 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.

Holy Humor Sunday – Today the “Happy Hour” Class is observing Holy Humor Sunday by hosting the Coffee Hour in the Gathering Space and a Holy Humor Open House in Rooms 103-104 from 9:00-10:30 AM.  Stop by either or both places whenever you can and stay as long as you wish.  It’s a great way to celebrate God’s Easter victory!  Food, fun and frivolity will reign supreme as we laugh at the Devil, who thought that he had defeated God on Good Friday.

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 information and registration forms.

Mother/Daughter Dinner Goes South of the Border - On Saturday, May 5^th from 5:00-7:00 PM (doors open at 4:30 PM), all Mothers and Daughters of the congregation are invited to join The Journeymen in the ULC Family Life Center for a South of the Border Dinner and Entertainment Adventure!  It’s sure to be a great night of food, fellowship and fun, so get your tickets early.  Due to space limitations, only 200 tickets will be sold.  Come join us for a night out where the men do the cooking and cleaning for you!  Tickets will be on sale in the ULC Gathering Space Hallway before and after both services today and Sunday, April 22.  Tickets may also be purchased in person in the church office during regular business hours from Monday, April 16, until sold out.  Unfortunately, due to high demand, tickets may only be purchased in person.  Please, no tickets will be reserved.  The cost is $7.00, but if any man in your life helps out at the dinner, you will receive a $2 rebate (One rebate per ticket)!!!  Hope to see you there!

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 on Saturday April 28 (7:00 AM-4:45 PM).  It’s an opportunity to spend the day with other men of the congregation, engage in conversation, meet new friends, help others and grow in Christ.  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.  We will incorporate a service project into the first half of the retreat, performing some light painting in their gym.  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).  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 Retreat.  You’ll both be glad he did!  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 April 22.  Hope to see you there!   

“Smile awhile” as a greeter when you welcome folks to worship before the 10:45 AM Sunday worship service.  If you are willing and able, please call the church office, or Judy Gifford 610-767-0372, to volunteer.  You are needed!

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.

Leave a Legacy for Ministry Seminar – Did you know that a will is one of the most important documents you can make?  Yet 60% of the people who die each year in the United States die without a will.  Did you know that one of the easiest ways you can make a gift to Union Lutheran is through your will?  Yet only 9% of the Lutherans who die each year made a gift to their church through a bequest from a will.  Pr. Gregory Kramer, Regional Gift Planner for the ELCA Foundation, will present an informational seminar at ULC on Sunday, April 22^nd at 9:15 AM in Room 202.  Besides discussing how you can make a gift to our congregation and your other favorite church ministries through a will, he will discuss a variety of ways to make your charitable wishes a reality.  Please make plans to attend this important seminar.  This is not a sales or promotional seminar because there is nothing to sell.  Pr. Kramer will present important information so you can make an informed decision about making estate gifts to our church family and other ministries of the ELCA.

Calling all Corn Hole (Bean Bag) Players – Our next and last scheduled evening of games for this round is April 18 (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 Jordan UCC.  If you have any questions, please call Ron Bealer at 610-730-1060.

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.

Monday, July 30

At Sky VBS children will discover that by trusting God, everything is possible! No matter who you are, how you feel, what people do, what happens or where you are…TRUST GOD!

Volunteer registration is now open! We are seeking “station leaders” and “crew leaders” for the week of VBS.  Even if you are not available the week of VBS, help is still needed for set building and preparation work. Remember, “Many hands make light work.” Please prayerfully consider volunteering for this worthwhile program. [Volunteer Form]

Child Registration is now open!  All children ages 3 (potty trained) through those having completed 6^th grade are welcome.  Please complete a registration form for each child.  Please submit the $5 registration fee to the church office.  T-Shirts are available for children at $5.50 each. Please include sizes on the registration form. [Registration Form]

Registration goes through June 30^th!

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.

Holy Humor Sunday – April 15^th – The “Happy Hour” Class will be observing Holy Humor Sunday by hosting the Coffee Hour in the Gathering Space and a Holy Humor Open House in Rooms 103-104 from 9:00-10:30 AM.  Stop by either or both places whenever you can and stay as long as you wish.  If you would really like to get into the spirit of the day, wear a funny hat and bring some jokes and cartoons to share.  It’s a great way to celebrate God’s Easter victory!  Food, fun and frivolity will reign supreme as we laugh at the Devil, who thought that he had defeated God on Good Friday.

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.

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 information and registration forms.

“Smile awhile” as a greeter when you welcome folks to worship before the 10:45 AM Sunday worship service.  If you are willing and able, please call the church office, or Judy Gifford 610-767-0372, to volunteer.  You are needed!

Work Day – April 14 8:00 AM – 12:00 Noon.  We will be doing inside cleaning and edging and mulching of the outside flowerbeds.  Hand tools will be needed.  We will be working out of the Family Life Center.  If you have any questions as to what may be needed, please contact Chuck Allison at 484-866-2591. 

Mother/Daughter Dinner Goes South of the Border - On Saturday, May 5^th from 5:00-7:00 PM (doors open at 4:30 PM), all Mothers and Daughters of the congregation are invited to join The Journeymen in the ULC Family Life Center for a South of the Border Dinner and Entertainment Adventure!  It’s sure to be a great night of food, fellowship and fun, so get your tickets early.  Due to space limitations, only 200 tickets will be sold.  Come join us for a night out where the men do the cooking and cleaning for you!  Tickets will be on sale in the ULC Gathering Space Hallway before and after both services on Sunday, April 15, and Sunday, April 22.  Tickets may also be purchased in person in the church office during regular business hours from Monday, April 16, until sold out.  Unfortunately, due to high demand, tickets may only be purchased in person.  Please, no tickets will be reserved.  The cost is $7.00, but if any man in your life helps out at the dinner, you will receive a $2 rebate (One rebate per ticket)!!!  Hope to see you there!

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 on Saturday, April 28 (7:00 AM-4:45 PM).  It’s an opportunity to spend the day with other men of the congregation, engage in conversation, meet new friends, help others and grow in Christ.  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.  We will incorporate a service project into the first half of the retreat, performing some light painting in their gym.  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).  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 Retreat.  You’ll both be glad he did!  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 April 22.  Hope to see you there!   

The Stephen Ministry Team would like to wish the congregation a blessed Easter.  During the month of April we are recruiting for our fall Stephen Ministry Training Class.  Applications can be found in the Gathering Space.  If you are going through a rough time contact Pastor Moore, Joan Fredericks or Irene Folk.  We will be glad to answer your questions.  Pastor Moore assigns Stephen Ministers.

Tuesday, April 10, 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 Stangles’ (610-261-0416 or funsters.ulc@verizon.net) if you are planning to attend.

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.

Leave a Legacy for Ministry Seminar – Did you know that a will is one of the most important documents you can make?  Yet 60% of the people who die each year in the United States die without a will.  Did you know that one of the easiest ways you can make a gift to Union Lutheran is through your will?  Yet only 9% of the Lutherans who die each year made a gift to their church through a bequest from a will.  Pr. Gregory Kramer, Regional Gift Planner for the ELCA Foundation, will present an informational seminar at ULC on Sunday, April 22^nd at 9:15 AM in Room 202.  Besides discussing how you can make a gift to our congregation and your other favorite church ministries through a will, he will discuss a variety of ways to make your charitable wishes a reality.  Please make plans to attend this important seminar.  This is not a sales or promotional seminar because there is nothing to sell.  Pr. Kramer will present important information so you can make an informed decision about making estate gifts to our church family and other ministries of the ELCA.

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.

Maundy Thursday – April 5th at 7:00 PM:  Those completing the First Communion classes will receive their First Communion.

Good Friday – April 6th at 7:00 PM: Tenebrae Service.

Easter Sunday – April 8th: Services will be held at 8:00 AM and 10:45 AM.