Announcements for September 17th

FINALLY! “Faith + Science” // Interfaith Forum // Sept 17, 3 pm, Frankfort

This Sunday, Sept. 17, Episcopal Rev. Clayton Thomason, medical ethics director at Rush University Medical Center, will offer a Christian take on "Faith + Science" at the latest SWIFT Interfaith Forum. He will be joined onstage by Dr. Zaher Sahloul, a pulmonologist at Advocate Christ Medical Center in Oak Lawn, and Dr. Carol Gerson, an ENT specialist and assistant professor at Northwestern University. The free event will take place from 3-6 pm, at the St. Francis Woods Campus in Frankfort IL (9201 W St Francis Rd). Refreshments will be served, but please bring a non-perishable food item for Respond Now. For more details, please contact Rob McManamy or Bryan Burke. For more about SWIFT, of which St. John's is now a member, go to www.swiftinterfaith.org, or visit the group's Facebook page.

We Need Your Feedback!  

The Search Committee is asking that everyone complete the Church Assessment Tool, or CAT.  This survey is designed to tell us who we are as a parish and who we want to be going forward as we search for our new rector.  If you are 16 and over and consider St. John's your church home, please go online and take the survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/StJohnEvangelistIL.  Hard copies are also available if you'd prefer.  The next phase of research will be small group discussions and all ages are encouraged to participate.  More information to come.

Got Freshmen?

Let us know who they are!  Let's send our young adults away at college for the first time a surprise "care package." Consider bringing in simple, fun items, or a note of encouragement to let our fellow parishioners (or relatives/friends) know we are thinking of them and wishing them success in their new life phase.  And when we say "simple", we mean simple:  a pack of gum, deck of cards, refrigerator magnet, pencils, stickers, candy, etc (the Dollar Store would be the perfect place to shop).  Anything, really--use your imagination!  We will have labeled boxes in the undercroft during coffee hour over the next few weeks; toss in your contributions (so far, we have a list of four freshmen).  If you know a college freshman you want to receive a St. John's care package, please call/text either Mike Madden or Dee McManamy--or see them at church. We'll need your freshman's full mailing address.  Each package will be a collective gift from the Church of St. John--yet another way to say we are, indeed, One Body--even when we are away from one another.

Confirmation and Sunday School classes begin Sunday, September 17^th at 9:00 a.m.

Announcements for September 3rd

       

       “Faith + Science” // Interfaith Forum // Sept 17, 3 pm, Frankfort

Next month, Episcopal Rev. Clayton Thomason, director of the medical ethics program at Rush University Medical Center, will offer a Christian perspective at the SWIFT Interfaith Forum on "Faith + Science." Muslim and Jewish speakers will also join him on a panel to present their distinct takes on this oft-contentious topic. The event will take place on Sunday, Sept. 17, from 3-6 pm, at the St. Francis Woods Campus in Frankfort IL (9201 W St Francis Rd). Refreshments will be served, but attendees also are encouraged to bring a non-perishable food item as a donation for Respond Now. For more details, please contact Rob McManamy or Bryan Burke. For more about SWIFT, of which St. John's is now a member, go to www.swiftinterfaith.org, or visit the group's Facebook page.

CALLING ALL VOLUNTEERS!  URGENT HELP NEEDED!

We need volunteers for teaching Sunday School!  This is an important ministry that has a positive and lasting impact upon the children of our parish.  Volunteers do not need to be parents of current students, and can alternate Sundays to meet personal schedules.  If you are interested or want to know more about the program, please call Diane Walsh-Madden.

COMING SOON!!!!  

The first step in the search for our next rector is a survey to be completed by all the members of St John's.  The Church Assessment Tool or "CAT" survey will be online for all parishioners 16 and older to complete.  Kick off will be on Sunday, September 10 (Jubilation Sunday).  More information will follow.

An Update from Senior Warden Greg Lawrence

I am pleased to announce that the Wardens, with the approval of the Vestry, have selected an Interim Rector, Fr. Michael Dwyer. He will be starting November 1, 2017 and will officiate his first Sunday services on November 5, 2017.  Fr. Dwyer lives in Park Forest, IL with his wife Jane and their three cats. He previously served as Priest-In-Charge of the Calumet Episcopal Ministry Partnership in Northern Indiana. We look forward to welcoming Fr. Dwyer to our St. John's family.

Announcements for August 27th

       

       “Faith + Science” // Interfaith Forum // Sept 17, 3 pm, Frankfort

Next month, Episcopal Rev. Clayton Thomason, director of the medical ethics program at Rush University Medical Center, will offer a Christian perspective at the SWIFT Interfaith Forum on "Faith + Science." Muslim and Jewish speakers will also join him on a panel to present their distinct takes on this oft-contentious topic. The event will take place on Sunday, Sept. 17, from 3-6 pm, at the St. Francis Woods Campus in Frankfort IL (9201 W St Francis Rd). Refreshments will be served, but attendees also are encouraged to bring a non-perishable food item as a donation for Respond Now. For more details, please contact Rob McManamy or Bryan Burke. For more about SWIFT, of which St. John's is now a member, go to www.swiftinterfaith.org, or visit the group's Facebook page.

Mary and RJ Van Swol: Calling all Babysitters!

When the new choir season starts, RJ and I will need someone to watch Teddy and Roman in the nursery during the practice after church from about 11:30-12:30. We will pay you for your time. If you are interested in taking this position for the 2017-2018 choir season, please contact me. Thanks!

CALLING ALL VOLUNTEERS!  URGENT HELP NEEDED!

We need volunteers for teaching Sunday School!  This is an important ministry that has a positive and lasting impact upon the children of our parish.  Volunteers do not need to be parents of current students, and can alternate Sundays to meet personal schedules.  If you are interested or want to know more about the program, please call Diane Walsh-Madden.

COMING SOON!!!!  

The first step in the search for our next rector is a survey to be completed by all the members of St John's.  The Church Assessment Tool or "CAT" survey will be online for all parishioners 16 and older to complete.  Kick off will be on Sunday, September 10 (Jubilation Sunday).  More information will follow.

An Update from Senior Warden Greg Lawrence

        I am pleased to announce that the Wardens, with the approval of the Vestry, have selected an
        Interim Rector, Fr. Michael Dwyer. He will be starting November 1, 2017 and will officiate his           first Sunday services on November 5, 2017.  Fr. Dwyer lives in Park Forest, IL with his wife               Jane and their three cats. He previously served as Priest-In-Charge of the Calumet Episcopal               Ministry Partnership in Northern Indiana. We look forward to welcoming Fr. Dwyer to our St.             John's family.

Announcements for August 20th!

        Don’t forget about the Blessing of the Backpacks on Sunday, August 20^th at 10:00 a.m.!

        

        Call out for St. John's pictures!

We would like to continue the tradition of having pictures of life at St. John's, but we need everyone's help!  Whenever you see a good photo opportunity at St. John's (special event, holidays, good hair day), please pull out your phone or camera, take some pictures and email them to Anne Edwards.  Anne manages the Facebook page for the parish, so she will either post them or save them for the Parish.  And, if you haven't already, please like "St. John the Evangelist, Flossmoor."  

   

“Faith + Science” // Interfaith Forum // Sept 17, 3 pm, Frankfort

Next month, Episcopal Rev. Clayton Thomason, director of the medical ethics program at Rush University Medical Center, will offer a Christian perspective at the SWIFT Interfaith Forum on "Faith + Science." Muslim and Jewish speakers will also join him on a panel to present their distinct takes on this oft-contentious topic. The event will take place on Sunday, Sept. 17, from 3-6 pm, at the St. Francis Woods Campus in Frankfort IL (9201 W St Francis Rd). Refreshments will be served, but attendees also are encouraged to bring a non-perishable food item as a donation for Respond Now. For more details, please contact Rob McManamy or Bryan Burke. For more about SWIFT, of which St. John's is now a member, go to www.swiftinterfaith.org, or visit the group's Facebook page.

Updates from Steve Hofer, Junior Warden

The year plaques of Rev. Vander Slice (1993) and Rev. Orr (2017) have been engraved and are in the Guild Room. The Parish Office sign has been reprinted with letters on one side. Carpets in the Rector’s office and the Guild Room have been cleaned. Additionally, Mary Hofer would like to thank the Vestry and the Parish of St. John’s for their prayers for her recent VNS implant. Her results are outstanding!

Mary and RJ Van Swol: Calling all Babysitters!

When the new choir season starts, RJ and I will need someone to watch Teddy and Roman in the nursery during the practice after church from about 11:30-12:30. We will pay you for your time. If you are interested in taking this position for the 2017-2018 choir season, please contact me. Thanks!

CALLING ALL VOLUNTEERS!  URGENT HELP NEEDED!

        We need volunteers for teaching Sunday School!  This is an important ministry that has a
        positive and lasting impact upon the children of our parish.  Volunteers do not need to be parents         of current students, and can alternate Sundays to meet personal schedules.  If you are interested           or want to know more about the program, please call Diane Walsh-Madden.

Announcements for May 21

Parish Picnic This Sunday
The annual parish picnic is this Sunday, May 19, on the south lawn following the 10:00 am service. Hamburgers and hot dogs will be provided; bring a side or dessert if you can. Please join us for fellowship and help plant the parish food garden.

Celebrating Children – Final Day of Sunday School
We will celebrate all children of the parish as we commemorate the final day of Sunday School this Sunday during the 10:00 am service. Thank you to the children who participated and to teachers Cyndie Knoll, Diane Walsh-Madden, and Patti Pohrte.

Adult Sunday School Class Will Not Meet This Sunday
The Sunday morning adult Bible study class will not meet this Sunday so that we can help with picnic preparations. This class is finished for this year. Thanks to all who participated.

Calling All Graduates
If you or someone in your family is celebrating a graduation, at any level, this spring please let the parish office know so that we, as a parish community, can celebrate their accomplishment. Please also include a brief statement of future plans, if known. Deadline for submissions is June 1

No Ascension Day Service This Year 
Because the Rector will be out of town, there will be no service this year on Ascension Day, May 25. We will celebrate Ascensiontide Sunday, May 28.

Wednesday Morning Service on Hiatus
This year the Wednesday morning service of Holy Eucharist with healing will be on hiatus for the summer. The last service was May 17. It will resume in the fall.

Announcements for May 14

Thank You to Landscape Helpers
A huge thank you to Lynn Ruschhaupt and all of the volunteers who helped spread five cubic yards of mulch on St. John’s grounds last Sunday. It looks great.

Vestry Meeting
The vestry meets Monday, May 15, beginning at 7:00 pm in the church.

Calling All Graduates
If you or someone in your family is celebrating a graduation, at any level, this spring please let the parish office know so that we, as a parish community, can celebrate their accomplishment. Please also include a brief statement of future plans, if known.

Parish Picnic Next Sunday May 21 (Volunteers Needed) 
During the 10:00 AM service on May 21 we will celebrate the final Sunday of Sunday School. Then we will gather on the south lawn for the annual parish picnic and planting of the parish food garden. Volunteers are needed to help set up for the picnic. Please contact Cyndie Knoll if you can help.

No Ascension Day Service This Year
Because the Rector will be out of town, there will be no service this year on Ascension Day, May 25. We will celebrate Ascensiontide Sunday, May 28.

Practicing Our Faith Book Club
The Practicing Our Faith Book Club is meeting on Thursday, May 18 at 7pm in the Guild Room to discuss Truth Speaks to Power: The Counterculture Nature of Scripture by Walter Brueggemann, which “invites readers to take a closer look at the subversive messages found within the Old Testament.” New members are always welcome.

Announcements for May 7

Blue Jean Sunday This Sunday, May 7 
Wear gardening clothes, bring your rake and help beautify St. John’s landscape for spring. Helpers are needed to clear out beds after the winter and spread mulch. Following the 10:00 AM service.

Recycle Plastic Easter Eggs
If you have now empty plastic Easter eggs left over from St. John’s Easter egg hunt or others, you may bring them to St. John’s to be used next year. A collection box is near the parish office.

Mark Your Calendars: Parish Picnic May 21 
During the 10:00 AM service on May 21 we will celebrate the final Sunday of Sunday School. Then we will gather on the south lawn for the annual parish picnic and planting of the parish food garden.

Announcements for April 23

Recycle Plastic Easter Eggs
If you have now empty plastic Easter eggs left over from St. John’s Easter egg hunt or others, you may bring them to St. John’s to be used next year. Look for the lilac colored collection box near the parish office.

New Usher “Pins”
Steve and Mary Hofer have recently donated a set of St. John the Evangelist usher “pins” (that attach  magnetically) to be worn by ushers at worship services. They are given in memory of Dick Keller, 8:00 AM usher extraordinaire.

Sunday School Classes Resume
Sunday School classes for all ages resume this Sunday, April 23, after the Easter break.

Easter Flowers
Thank you to everyone who so generously contributed to the Easter flowers in the church this year. A list of contributors is included with this Sunday’s worship leaflet.

Practicing Our Faith Book Club
In May the Practicing Our Faith Book Club will be reading Truth Speaks to Power: The Counterculture Nature of Scripture by Walter Brueggemann, which "invites readers to take a closer look at the subversive messages found within the Old Testament." Read the book, and then join us on Thursday, May 18 at 7pm in the Guild Room for the discussion. New members are always welcome.

Yarn Ministry
The knitting and crocheting group will meet Monday, May 1st at 7:00 PM in the Guild Room. This is the last meeting, until we start up again in the fall.

Announcements for Easter Sunday, April 16

Easter Services
Saturday, April 15:  The Great Vigil of Easter, 8:00 PM.
Sunday, Easter Morning, April 16:  The Holy Eucharist at 8:00 AM & 10:00 AM.

Children’s Easter Egg Hunt
Following the 10:00 AM service, all children of the parish are invited to participate in an Easter egg hunt on the front lawn of the church. Bring your own baskets.

Vestry
The vestry meets Monday, April 17, beginning in the church at 7:00 PM.

Sunday School On Vacation
Sunday School for all ages is on vacation this Sunday, April 16. Classes will resume April 23. Contribute to Easter Flowers It’s not too late. Please consider making a contribution towards the lilies and other flowers that adorn the church at Easter time. Contributions may be made in memory or thanksgiving or simply to the Glory of God. Flower contribution envelopes were included with the Easter letter; they are also available in the pews.

Interfaith Presentation for South Side Churches in Frankfort, April 22 
SWIFT co-founder Khalid Mozaffar will be giving an ‘Islam 101’ presentation at the American Islamic Association, 8860 W Saint Francis Rd, Frankfort from 10am to 12pm on Sat., April 22. All interested members of St. John's have been invited to the AIA for what should be a fascinating talk. For more details or to RSVP please contact Rob McManamy by no later than Wednesday, April 19.

Announcements for April 9

Palm Sunday This Sunday – April 9: Come Early for the Procession
The liturgy of the palms begins before each service this week. We will gather at the outdoor altar at 7:55 AM before the early service and at 9:40 AM before the later service. Come be a part of the triumphal procession!

Sign Up for the Watch
A sign up sheet is available in the back of the church for the watch in the garden beginning the evening of Maundy Thursday, April 13, and continuing through noon on Good Friday.

Sunday School On Vacation
Sunday School for all ages is on vacation this Sunday, April 9 and next Sunday, Easter Sunday.

Help Prepare Easter Eggs
During coffee hour after the 10:00 AM service, everyone is invited to help fill Easter eggs to be used in the children’s Easter egg hunt on Easter morning. The hunt takes place on the front lawn of the church following the 10:00 AM service on Easter.

Worship During Holy Week
The schedule for Holy Week worship services was included with the Easter letter. Copies are also available at the church on the information tables.

Contribute to Easter Flowers
Please consider making a contribution towards the lilies and other flowers that will adorn the church at Easter time. Contributions may be made in memory or thanksgiving or simply to the Glory of God. Flower contribution envelopes were included with this week’s Easter letter; they are also available in the pews.

Fish Fry Success
The St. Barnabas Men's Fellowship of St. John's and Holy Family will hold its regular monthly breakfast meeting this Saturday, April 8, at 7:30 AM at St. John's in Flossmoor. Last Friday, the group hosted yet another successful ‘Episcopal Fish Fry’ for the community, serving some 130 customers and raising $1,000 for the South Suburban PADS homeless ministry. Special thanks to all who turned out, as well as to the volunteers. Lastly, thanks also to the Smiley Tillmon Band for once again making this fundraiser the catch of the season!

Interfaith Presentation for South Side Churches in Frankfort, April 22
SWIFT co-founder Khalid Mozaffar will be giving an ‘Islam 101’ presentation at the American Islamic Association, 8860 W Saint Francis Rd, Frankfort from 10am to 12pm on Sat., April 22. All interested members of St. John's have been invited to the AIA for what should be a fascinating talk. For more details or to RSVP please contact Rob McManamy no later than Wednesday, April 19.

Announcements for January 26

Ash Wednesday Services
Ash Wednesday is March 1. The Imposition of Ashes with Holy Communion will be offered at St. John’s at 6:30 AM, 9:00 AM and 7:00 PM.

Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper
Come for the traditional pre-Lent pancake supper Tuesday, February 28, from 5:00 – 6:30 PM in the undercroft. Pancakes, bacon and sausage. Tickets at the door: $5/adults, $3/children. All proceeds benefit the youth group service projects.

This Sunday: Intergenerational Sunday School -- Prayer
This Sunday, February 26, all ages are invited to a class with Pastor Orr on the practice of daily (or at least regular) prayer at home. Tools and suggestions. Meet in the adult classroom in the education wing.

The Observance of a Holy Lent
We are asked by the church to observe the season of Lent not only in our worship but throughout our daily lives. A handout, “Lent for Dummies,” with suggestions for observing Lent is available on the information tables. Several booklets with daily devotions are also available.

New Parish Directories Available
Pick up your copy from the information tables.

Yarn Ministry
The knitting and crocheting group sill meet Monday, March 6th at 7:00 PM in the Guild Room.

Men's Group Meeting on March 4 and Open House at the American Islamic Association
The Men's Group will be meeting Saturday, March 4 from 7:30AM to 9:00AM at Church of the Holy Family in Park Forest. Afterwards, the Men's Group invites the men of the group and anyone else who is interested to join us as we visit the Frankfort Mosque for their open house and for coffee, tea, and snacks at 10:00AM. This is a great opportunity for anyone who is interested in learning more about our Muslim neighbors. If anyone has any questions about the event, please ask Rob McManamy.

Grande Prairie Singers Times Three
“Hoorah for Handel!” is the next Grande Prairie Singers concert, held at 4 PM, Sunday, March 12, Trinity Lutheran Church, 6850 W 159th St., Tinley Park. Tickets are $15 in advance, $20 at the door, and $10 for students with ID. On Sunday, March 26, the Singers will be part of the Southwest Symphony Orchestra's Rodgers & Hammerstein concert at Trinity Christian College in Palos Heights (phone 800.838.3006 for tickets). Finally, $5 raffle tickets are available (1st prize, $1,000) from the Singers for the May 21st drawing (winners need not be present). See Michael Soto, Bob Burgwald, or Betsy Elliot for tickets for March 12 and the raffle.

Announcements for February 19

Vestry Meeting
The February meeting of the vestry will be Monday, February 20, beginning in the church at 7:00 PM.

Next Sunday: Intergenerational Sunday School 
Sunday, February 26, all ages are invited to a class with Pastor Orr on the practice of daily (or at least regular) prayer at home. Tools and suggestions. Meet in the adult classroom in the education wing.

Practicing Our Faith Book Club
The Practicing Our Faith Book Club is meeting on Thursday, Feb. 23 at 7pm in the Guild Room to discuss To Bless the Space Between Us by John O'Donohue, a collection of blessings and poems. New members are always welcome.

Book Study with Bishop Lee for Lent
During Lent, which begins March 1, Bishop Lee and other diocesan leaders will hold an online book discussion of Living into God's Dream: Dismantling Racism in America, a collection of essays edited by Catherine Meeks. Living into God's Dream combines personal stories and theological reflection with real-world examples of new conversations about race. The book is available online from Church Publishing, Amazon (book and Kindle formats), and other retailers.

Looking Ahead to Shrove Tuesday & Ash Wednesday
Shrove Tuesday is February 28. The traditional pancake supper will be held that evening. Ash Wednesday is March 1. Services will be held at 7:00 AM, 9:00 AM and 7:00 PM.

Grande Prairie Singers Times Three
“Hoorah for Handel!” is the next Grande Prairie Singers concert, held at 4 PM, Sunday, March 12, Trinity Lutheran Church, 6850 W 159th St., Tinley Park. Tickets are $15 in advance, $20 at the door, and $10 for students with ID. On Sunday, March 26, the Singers will be part of the Southwest Symphony Orchestra's Rodgers & Hammerstein concert at Trinity Christian College in Palos Heights (phone 800.838.3006 for tickets). Finally, $5 raffle tickets are available (1st prize, $1,000) from the Singers for the May 21st drawing (winners need not be present). See Michael Soto, Bob Burgwald, or Betsy Elliot for tickets for March 12 and the raffle.

Announcements for February 12

Draft of New Parish Directory
We are working on updating the parish directory. DRAFTS are located on the information tables. Please check the accuracy of your information and add cell phone or email information if we don’t have it and you wish to share it. Thanks! The new directories will be available in a few weeks.

Know Your Bible
The Grades 2-6 Sunday School class has just completed a unit on “Knowing Your Bible.” During the 10 AM service this Sunday students Ruby Moxley, Oliver Zigmund, Owen Zigmund, Catherine Madden and Lola Pohrte will receive Bibles as a gift from the parish. And thank you to teachers Diane Walsh-Madden and Patti Pohrte for their ongoing work with this class.

Book Study with Bishop Lee for Lent
During Lent, which begins March 1, Bishop Lee and other diocesan leaders will hold an online book discussion of Living into God's Dream: Dismantling Racism in America, a collection of essays edited by Catherine Meeks. Living into God's Dream combines personal stories and theological reflection with real-world examples of new conversations about race. The book is available online from Church Publishing, Amazon (book and Kindle formats), and other retailers.

Black History Month: Annual Absalom Jones Celebration
The Union of Black Episcopalians Chicago will celebrate the annual Feast Day of Absalom Jones at St. Thomas Episcopal Church, Chicago on Sunday, February 19 at 3 pm. This year's speaker will be the Rev. Dr. Jonathan L. Walton, Plummer Professor of Christian Morals and Pusey Minister in the Memorial Church at Harvard University. All members of the diocese are invited to attend.

Announcements for January 8

Celebrate the EpiphanyTo celebrate the Epiphany the Holy Eucharist will be celebrated Friday, January 6, beginning at 7 PM.


RSVP for the Feast (and bring photos from the 70’s!) 
Where were you when everyone had “Saturday Night Fever?” Were you sporting your brand new leisure suit? Sporting plaid pants, or bell bottoms? Were you still being dressed by your parents, growing up in an avocado and gold kitchen? Were you watching Star Wars for the 11th time? Or did you connect with the decade years later while dressing up for Halloween? Please bring a copy of your best 70's look to the Feast on Jan 14. Just put your name on the back of your picture(s) and we will try to guess who's who. Don't forget to RSVP for the feast. Please bring your reply card to church on Sunday or there are extras on the information tables. We need your reply by Wednesday Jan 11, but responses before Friday Jan 7 are especially appreciated.

Help Needed for PADS
We will be serving dinner at PADS on Wednesday, Jan 11th at St. Lawrence O’Toole at 7 PM. I need volunteers to help prepare and serve the meal beginning at 6 PM. Please see me at church or contact me by phone or email if you are able to help. Thank you. –Margi Strombeck

Sunday School is Back 
Sunday School classes for all ages will meet this Sunday, January 8.

Practicing Our Faith Book Club
The Practicing Our Faith Book Cub is reading Living Buddha, Living Christ by Thich Nhat Hahn this month. Read the book, and then join us on Thursday, January 19 at 7pm in the Guild roon for the discussion. New members are always welcome.

Annual Parish Meeting
The annual parish meeting will be held Sunday, January 22. Loaves and Fishes will serve brunch following the 10:00 AM service. The meeting will begin around 11:30 AM. Everyone is encouraged to attend.

Thank You for Christmas Flower Donations 
A list of people who contributed for the special Christmas decorations in the church will be included in this Sunday’s service leaflet.

Offering Envelopes are Available
2017 offering envelopes are available in the back of the church for people who primarily attend the 8:00 AM service and in the undercroft for people who regularly attend at 10:00 AM.

Announcements for January 1

RSVP for the Feast
Where were you when everyone had “Saturday Night Fever?” Were you sporting your brand new leisure suit? Sporting plaid pants, or bell bottoms? Were you still being dressed by your parents, growing up in an avocado and gold kitchen? Were you watching Star Wars for the 11th time? Or did you connect with the decade years later while dressing up for Halloween? Please bring a copy of your best 70's look to the Feast on Jan 14. Just put your name on the back of your picture(s) and we will try to guess who's who.

Don't forget to RSVP for the feast. Please bring your reply card to church on Sunday. We need your reply by Wednesday Jan 11, but responses before Friday Jan 7 are especially appreciated.

Lessons and Carols This Sunday
Services of Scripture readings interspersed with music of prayer and praise are a rich part of our Anglican worship tradition. This Sunday’s 10:00 a.m. service will be a service of Christmas Lessons and Carols. Holy Communion, although not a traditional part of these services, will be included on Sunday.

Wednesday Service
The Wednesday morning celebration of the Holy Eucharist WILL resume this week, January 4.

Parish Office Holiday Closure
The parish office is closed through January 3. Voice mail, email and snail mail are being checked regularly.

Sunday School Vacation
Sunday School classes will NOT meet this Sunday, January 1.

Christmas Thanks
Thank you to everyone who, in small ways and large, contributed to Christmas services at St. John’s. Special thanks to Michael Soto and the choir and to the Altar Guild for all of their extra work. And thanks be to God for the young people who read the “Voices of Christmas” at the early Christmas Eve service.

Vestry Budget Meeting
The vestry meets next Sunday, January 8, following the 10:00 AM service to finalize the 2017 budget.

Announcements for September 18

Vestry Meeting
The vestry meets Monday, September 19, beginning in the church at 7:00 PM.

Calling All Parish Kids: Help Paint the Window
This Sunday, September 18, children of all ages are invited to help paint a new window mural in the atrium. Meet in the atrium (near the lift) during the 9:00 AM Sunday School hour. Regular Sunday School classes begin next week.

Practicing Our Faith Book Club
This month the Practicing Our Faith Book Club is reading Jabbok by Kee Sloan, a novel about a friendship between a white boy and an African-American preacher in rural Mississippi. The book club will meet on Thursday, October 20 at 7:00pm in the Guild Room to discuss Jabbok. New members are always welcome.

Adult Sunday School Begins Next Week
The Rector’s Sunday School class for adults begins next week, September 25, at 9:00 AM in the Education Wing.

Organist Michael Soto in Concert
Michael will be performing with the Southwest Symphony in an upcoming concert. He’ll be playing Handel’s Concerto for Organ HWV 295, “The Cuckoo and the Nightingale,” and Saint-Saëns Symphony No. 3 for organ and orchestra. The concert is on Sunday, September 25 at 4:00 in Ozinga Chapel at Trinity Christian College, 6601 W College Drive, Palos Heights. Information and tickets are available at www.southwestsymphony.com.

Jubilation Thank You’s
Thank you to everyone who participated in the Jubilation: to Cynthia Turnquest for decorating; to Cyndie Knoll and Loaves & Fishes for providing lunch; to all of the ministry leaders who provided displays and staffed tables; and to all of the people at St. John’s who, through fellowship, prayer and action, are the Body of Christ at St. John’s.

Vegetable Abundance
This week:  Green cabbage and tomatoes. (The tomatoes come from the garden of the Rev. Israel Anchan in Kankakee.) 

Announcements for September 11

Jubilation: This Sunday, September 11
St. John’s fall celebration of the people, activities and ministries of the parish will take place this Sunday, September 11, following the 10:00 AM service. Lunch will be served. Catch up with fellow parishioners after the summer. Browse program and ministry opportunities and register for Sunday School classes.

Introducing New Office Manager: Betsy Sloan
Betsy has lived in Flossmoor for the past eight years with her husband, Dan and daughters Lucy (a senior at HF) and Eleanor (an 8th grader at Parker Junior high). She has spent most of her working life as an administrative assistant at various levels at DePaul University. She looks forward to getting to know and working with the parishioners of St. John’s.

Choir Returns This Sunday
Following their summer break, the choir returns to participation in the 10:00 AM service this Sunday.

Practicing Our Faith Book Club
This month the Practicing Our Faith Book Club is reading Jabbok by Kee Sloan, a novel about a friendship between a white boy and an African-American preacher in rural Mississippi. The book club will meet on Thursday, October 20 at 7:00pm in the Guild Room to discuss Jabbok. New members are always welcome.

Organist Michael Soto in Concert
Michael will be performing with the Southwest Symphony in an upcoming concert. He’ll be playing Handel’s Concerto for Organ HWV 295, “The Cuckoo and the Nightingale,” and Saint-Saëns Symphony No. 3 for organ and orchestra. The concert is on Sunday, September 25 at 4:00 in Ozinga Chapel at Trinity Christian College, 6601 W College Drive, Palos Heights. Information and tickets are available at www.southwestsymphony.com.

New Outreach Opportunity for Teens and Adults
Only have a little time to spare but you care about making a big difference? All hands, all minds, all ages invited to join in service. Look for St. John's new outreach ministry at this Sunday's Jubilation. We've listened to our high school teens and this is what they've told us: We are busy with academics, sports, clubs and jobs; the pressure can be intense. You also manage to carve out time for church and want to do good works. This last part makes you very special and--in today's world, sadly--a rarity. Our diocese has learned this the hard way, which has led to a significantly reduced diocesan youth program, including the elimination of decades-old programs like Happening. That's why St. John's wants to meet the challenge and support your commitment to our parish and your own spiritual growth. Here's the idea... each quarter we'll put forth at least one service project that parishioners of all ages and interests can join in. No regularly scheduled "meetings". Just projects and dates and details. You choose the ones you are able to do (and suggest your own ideas). We'll invite other Flossmoor churches to join us. Involve your friends, family, neighbors--whatever makes it fun and meaningful for you, and in the process, we'll help heal the world. God loves it when we do that.

Vegetable Abundance
This week: Arugula, green and jalapeno peppers. 

Announcements for September 4

Jubilation: September 11
St. John’s fall celebration of the people, activities and ministries of the parish will take place Sunday, September 11, following the 10:00 AM service. Come for lunch and catch up with fellow parishioners after the summer. You can also browse program and ministry opportunities and sign up for Sunday School.

PADS
As the vestry Godparent to the PADS Group of St. John’s, I would like to ask the congregation to pray for their coming season, starting this October. PADS is a ministry that reaches beyond the doors of St. John the Evangelist into the community in need... Answering the call of Jesus. --Ted Stone

UTO Blue Boxes
Beginning in the 1880’s women of the Episcopal Church have coordinated the United Thank Offering. Central to the UTO are the familiar blue boxes. Pick one up from the information tables and take it home. Every time you are thankful or mindful of a blessing in your life, put a coin or two in the box. Collections from throughout the Episcopal Church are gathered together and grants are made to help people in need and support the mission of the church. To learn more talk with Iris Bestow or check out this website.

Parish Office Closed
The parish office will be closed Monday, September 5, in observance of Labor Day.

Vegetable Abundance
This week: Cantaloupe and green bell peppers. 

Announcements for May 29

Seeking Information on Graduates: Last Call
Are you, or someone in your family, graduating this spring? As we do each year, we would like to celebrate graduates (at all levels). Please call (708.798.4150) or email (office@stjohnsflossmoor.org) the parish office with the information. You may also drop a note in the offering plate on Sunday. Please keep the announcements as brief as possible, but feel free to include information on majors, special honors and future plans, if known. The deadline for submitting information is June 1.

Parish Office Closed Monday
The parish office will be closed Monday, May 30, in observance of Memorial Day.

Vestry News
At the May 16th meeting of the vestry, we discussed our “Godparent” project. Each vestry member is the godparent for a ministry in the parish. Godparents don’t necessarily become members, but keep up on what is happening, pray and show concern for that ministry, and tell other people in the parish about it. We also discussed ongoing plans for expanding the columbarium and improving the sidewalk and landscaping by the outdoor altar. Since there are currently funds to cover this project, it should start in late summer.

Help Out with Best Buddies Pet Pantry
Can you spare an hour on Saturday, June 4th, to weigh and package dry cat food for the Best Buddies Pet Pantry? We’ll meet at 10:00 AM in the adult education classroom, and if we get lots of helping hands, we should be done in no time. Please let Susan Marquis know if you can be there, and bring along friends if you can. Last minute helpers are appreciated, too!

Sunday School on Vacation
Sunday school classes for children and adults are on vacation for the summer. Thanks to all who participated, especially the teachers of the children’s and youth classes: Diane Walsh-Madden, Patti Pohrte and Cyndie Knoll.

Announcements for May 22

Parish Picnic This Sunday
The annual spring parish picnic is this Sunday, May 22. Gather on the south lawn following the 10:00 AM service. Hotdogs and hamburgers will be provided. Everyone is invited to come celebrate spring and our parish community! Bring a side or dessert if you wish. We will also plant the parish food garden.

Seeking Information on Graduates
Are you, or someone in your family, graduating this spring? As we do each year, we would like to celebrate graduates (at all levels). Please call or email the parish office with the information. You may also drop a note in the offering plate on Sunday. Please keep the announcements as brief as possible, but feel free to include information on majors, special honors and future plans, if known. The deadline for submitting information is June 1.

Photo Op – Get Your Photo Taken for St. John’s Photo Board
Vestry member Nichole Dailor is spearheading an effort to create a bulletin board for the undercroft with current photos of St. John’s parishioners. She’ll be available to take family or individual photos at the parish picnic. You may also supply your own photos if you wish, or there will be additional photo opportunities throughout the year.

Last Day of Sunday School
This Sunday, May 22, is the final day of Sunday School for this year. During the 10:00 AM service, we will celebrate the children and teachers who are a part of our Sunday School program.

Sign Up for Episcopal Summer Camp
The Episcopal Diocese of Chicago runs a summer camp, Camp Chicago, for campers age 7 – 17. Week-long sessions run between June 26 – July 15. Scholarship assistance is available. Find more information HERE.