HOLY COMMUNION SCHEDULE CHANGE.  Please note thatHoly Communion will be on the 28^th of July and not on the  21^st.

The 67^th LCMS Convention will be held in Tampa, FL July 20-25^th.  Pastor Bahr will be in attendance as a delegate representing our Niagara West congregations.  The LCMS convention determines the parameters by which we agree to walk together.  The resolutions of note include the relationship of laity and clergy (especially regarding the service of Deacons), the authority of the Synod President, and much more.

The GRACE LADIES Summer Picnic is scheduled for 6:00 PM on Tuesday, July 23^rd at the home of Jane Hughes.  Please bring a dish to pass along with a small white elephant gift (placed in a bag) to be used for some fun games!  A sign-up sheet can be found on the glass display case.

THE GLEANINGS.  Please note that the August/September edition will be arriving on your doorstep by the 15^th of August.  You may be asking . . . . “Why the late arrival?”.  This will allow us to include a feature on VBS which runs July 29^th thru August 2^nd.  Please notify the office should this cause any conflicts.  Please submit your submissions for this edition to the office as soon as possible.

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL UPDATE – CONTACT:  LACEY BAHR 525-5134

NEW ITEMS are on the VBS needs board.   See if there is anything you can contribute.  Please bring in items by Sunday, July 21^st (aka NEXT Sunday).

THANK YOU to all of the volunteers who came to help prepare props and decorations for VBS!  You are an important part of the program.

NEEDED:  simple costumes made for adults. If you can sew simple costumes and are willing, please let me know!

SAVE THE DATE:  Sunday, July 28^th.  After worship service we will transform the church for VBS.  Please plan to give of your time to help us set up.

PRE-REGISTRATION helps us prepare for the children coming.  Download the form at gracenf.org/vbs or call the office at 716-283-1843.  Forms are also available at the church entrances.

Please continue to PRAY for the volunteers preparing for VBS, and for the families who will attending.

TRIANGLES CREATE TENSION by pulling forces of similar strength in opposing directions. Many of life’s decisions present both risk and opportunity. Wisdom is knowing the difference between God’s will and ours. Planning your gifts to family and ministry is a discovery of this tension under the cross. For more information, contact Robert Wirth, LCMS Foundation Gift Planner @ robert.wirth (at) lfnd (dot) org or 716-863-4427.

This week, the LCMS Youth Gathering is taking place in Minneapolis, Minnesota.  This event brings together 25,000 high school youth from across the LCMS to worship, serve, and play together.  Pastor Bahr will be joining about 200 other adult volunteers to staff the Gathering. In addition to supervising one hotel property, he’ll be a member of Gathering Safety, comprising military, law enforcement, and medical personnel. Your prayers for the youth, adults, and staff are appreciated!

HOLY COMMUNION SCHEDULE CHANGE.  Please note thatHoly Communion will be on the 1^st and 4^th Sunday’s in July.  This will be July 7^th and 28^th.

The GRACE LADIES Summer Picnic is scheduled for 6:00 PM on Tuesday, July 23^rd at the home of Jane Hughes.  Please bring a dish to pass along with a small white elephant gift (placed in a bag) to be used for some fun games!

CORRECTION:  After collecting a few more donations, the new grand total collected for Summit Life Resources’ annual Baby Bottle Bank Fundraiser is $431.42.  Thank you for all for your donations.

This past Saturday’s AMERICAN RED CROSS BLOOD DRIVE which took place at Grace collected a total of 20 donations which will go on to help save 60 lives!!

SUBMISSIONS for the August/September edition of “The Gleanings” are due to the office by Monday, July 15^th. 

SOCKS, UNDERWEAR, & SCHOOL SUPPLIES:  Continuing until Rally Day on September 8, Social Ministries has tables available in the chapel and narthex to accept donations of socks, underwear, and school supplies for our Niagara Falls school children in need.  Jane Hughes, who spent many years as a teacher in our city’s school system, has shared that there is an acute need for help in our city’s inner city schools.  Jane Brese delivers your gifts to Harry Abate Elementary School each year, and she can tell you how they are anticipated and appreciated by the staff.  Please feel free to ask either of these ladies about the need if you have questions.  All of your gifts will be distributed by the teachers and school nurses, which ensures that your gifts will be placed directly into the hands of local children that are most in need. 

SOMETHING NEW THIS YEAR:  As soon as they are available, we will have school supply lists available by grade for those who may wish to supply all needed school supplies for one or more Niagara Falls school children.  If you would like to “adopt a virtual student”, you can pick up a list from the donation tables for your preferred grade, purchase everything on the list, and bring the items back in a paper bag (or book bag) with the supply list attached to the outside.  These bags will be distributed by our inner city teachers in September to a child who would otherwise not have the supplies needed for a successful school year.

JULY SPECIAL MISSION ENVELOPES are designated to support LCMS Disaster Response as they continue to work at various disaster sites around our country.  LCMS is often one of the first agencies to respond to disasters with needed resources and volunteers to help meet immediate needs, and teams often provide long-term support to help residents rebuild their lives and homes.  If you would like to support our church’s work at disaster sites throughout our country, please place your July Special Mission envelope in the offering plate before the end of the month.

TRIANGLES GIVE BALANCE to stabilize the weight of a force. A Christian steward’s life is one of balance between intent, action and Spirit supplied faith. Pray for your gift planning intent to turn to action empowered by faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.  For more information, contact Robert Wirth, LCMS Foundation Gift Planner @ robert.wirth (at) lfnd (dot) org or 716-863-4427.

The ALTAR FLOWERS are offered to the Glory of God and in memory of David Broussard by Amanda Stenzel.

PLEASE WELCOME Pastor Mark Auernhamer from St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church in North Tonawanda.  Pastor Auernhamer will be assisting our Elders today with the sermon, absolution and Holy Communion.

SOCKS, UNDERWEAR, & SCHOOL SUPPLIES:  Beginning next Sunday and continuing until Rally Day on September 8^th, Social Ministries will have tables available in the chapel and narthex to accept donations of socks, underwear, and school supplies for our Niagara Falls school children in need.  (Please note that this project is separate from the project for Nebraska.)  Jane Hughes, who spent many years as a teacher in our city’s school system, has shared that there is an acute need for help in our city’s inner city schools.  Please feel free to ask her about the need if you have questions.  All of your gifts will be distributed by the teachers and school nurses, which ensures that your gifts will be placed directly into the hands of local children that are most in need. 

SOMETHING NEW THIS YEAR:  As soon as they are available, we will have school supply lists available by grade for those who may wish to supply all needed school supplies for one or more Niagara Falls school children.  If you would like to “adopt a virtual student”, you can pick up a list from the donation tables for your preferred grade, purchase everything on the list, and bring the items back in a paper bag (or book bag) with the supply list attached to the outside.  These bags will be distributed by our inner city teachers in September to a child who would otherwise not have the supplies needed for a successful school year.

OUR OLDEST LIVING MEMBER, Geraldine Merlin, will turn 102 on July 11^th.  If you would like to send her well wishes for her birthday, you may drop off a greeting card in the office by next Sunday and we will take care of forwarding all cards to her.

TODAY IS THE LAST DAY TO DONATE to our June special mission, Camp Pioneer, located on the shore of Lake Erie in Angola and owned by LCMS Eastern District.  Camp Pioneer offers daily admission passes including beach access and picnic areas, cottage rentals, camps and retreats for all ages, and special camps for military families, developmentally challenged, foster children, and inner-city youth.  They also host many special events and retreats.  As you can imagine, keeping our camp and its programs up and running becomes more expensive each year.  If you would like to support Camp Pioneer and its mission of sharing the love of Christ, you may use your special mission envelope or the convenience envelopes in the pews.  If you use the pew envelopes, please clearly mark it for “June special mission Camp Pioneer”.

HELP FLOOD VICTIMS:  Our Thrivent Action Team here at Grace is seeking donations from members of socks, underwear, footwear, and outfits for children 10 and under affected by the devastating floods in Fremont, Nebraska.  In addition, we will be shopping for items to help these young children who are living in temporary housing shelters.  All items will be shipped to them on July 1^st.  Thank you for your generosity.  John Loss

HOLY COMMUNION SCHEDULE CHANGE.  Please note thatHoly Communion will be on the 1^st and 4^th Sunday’s in July.  This will be July 7^th and 28^th.

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL UPDATE:

Check out the board of VBS needs, located in the fellowship hall.  Take a sticker as your reminder and bring items to the table.

ALL volunteers keep Saturday, July 13th on your calendars.  10:00 AM – 12:30 PM will be decor creation; 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM will be volunteer training.  Lunch is provided at noon.

Please keep attending families in your prayers.  God will bring them to us; pray that their hearts are ready for the Word of God.

INVITE! Neighbors, friends, family…this event is for children ages 3 (potty-trained) to entering 6th grade.

WILL WE MAKE IT TO THE END . . . WITH ENOUGH? Fear and anxiety cause many to tightly clench their fists during life. Despite promises for provision, some won’t believe. For all, leaving a portion to honor God confesses saving faith in a planned response of gratitude. For more information, contact Robert Wirth, LCMS Foundation Gift Planner @ robert.wirth (at) lfnd (dot) org or 716-863-4427.

NEW SUMMER OFFICE HOURS – Sunday 8:30 AM – 12:30 PM & Thursday 4:30 PM – 8:30 PM.  Please note that phone messages and emails will be responded to on a regular basis.

SOCKS, UNDERWEAR, & SCHOOL SUPPLIES:  Beginning in July and continuing until Rally Day on September 8, Social Ministries will have tables available in the chapel and narthex to accept donations of socks, underwear, and school supplies for our Niagara Falls school children in need.  (Please note that this project is separate from the project for Nebraska.)  Jane Hughes, who spent many years as a teacher in our city’s school system, has shared that there is an acute need for help in our city’s inner city schools.  Please feel free to ask her about the need if you have questions.  All of your gifts will be distributed by the teachers and school nurses, which ensures that your gifts will be placed directly into the hands of local children that are most in need. 

SOMETHING NEW THIS YEAR:  As soon as they are available, we will have school supply lists available by grade for those who may wish to supply all needed school supplies for one or more Niagara Falls school children.  If you would like to “adopt a virtual student”, you can pick up a list from the donation tables for your preferred grade, purchase everything on the list, and bring the items back in a paper bag (or book bag) with the supply list attached to the outside.  These bags will be distributed by our inner city teachers in September to a child who would otherwise not have the supplies needed for a successful school year.

OUR OLDEST LIVING MEMBER, Geraldine Merlin, will turn 102 on July 11.  If you would like to send her well wishes for her birthday, you may drop off a greeting card in the office by July 7 (two weeks from today) and we will take care of forwarding all cards to her.

HELP FLOOD VICTIMS:  Our Thrivent Action Team here at Grace is seeking donations from members of socks, underwear, footwear, and outfits for children 10 and under affected by the devastating floods in Fremont, Nebraska.  In addition, we will be shopping for items to help these young children who are living in temporary housing shelters.  All items will be shipped to them on July 1^st.  Thank you for your generosity.  John Loss

GRACE LADIES FIELD TRIP to the Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center will take place this Tuesday, the 25^th of June.  Those planning to attend should meet at Grace at 11:00 AM.  Admission to the Heritage Center is approximately $7.  Please also note that lunch will follow at Olive Garden.

AMERICAN RED CROSS BLOOD DRIVE will take place at Grace this coming Saturday, June 29^th from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM.  For an appointment, please call 1-800-RED CROSS or visit redcrossblood.org.  Walk-Ins Welcome!

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL UPDATE:

There are NEW items on the board of VBS needs, located in the fellowship hall.  Take a sticker as your reminder and bring items to the table.

ALL volunteers keep Saturday, July 13th on your calendars.  10:00 AM – 12:30 PM will be decor creation; 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM will be volunteer training.  Lunch is provided at noon.

Please keep attending families in your prayers.  God will bring them to us; pray that their hearts are ready for the Word of God.

INVITE! Neighbors, friends, family…this event is for children ages 3 (potty-trained) to entering 6th grade.

NEW SUMMER OFFICE HOURS – Sunday 8:30 AM – 12:30 PM & Thursday 4:30 PM – 8:30 PM.  Please note that phone messages and emails will be responded to on a regular basis.

Check out all the VBS PROGRAMS happening around the District . . . http://bit.ly/VBS_ED_LCMS and don’t forget to register for GRACE’S VBS online at gracenf.org/vbs or pick up a paper copy and return it to the church office.

JUNE SPECIAL MISSION ENVELOPE donations will go to Camp Pioneer, located on the shore of Lake Erie in Angola and owned by LCMS Eastern District.  Camp Pioneer offers daily admission passes including beach access and picnic areas, cottage rentals, camps and retreats for all ages, and special camps for military families, developmentally challenged, foster children, and inner-city youth.  They also host many special events and retreats.  As you can imagine, keeping our camp and its programs up and running becomes more expensive each year.  If you would like to support Camp Pioneer and its mission of sharing the love of Christ, please place your special mission envelope in the offering plate before the end of June.

PLEASE RETURN BABY BOTTLE BANKS:  Thank you to all who donated to Summit Life Resources’ annual fundraiser.  If you have not already done so, please return your banks to the donation table or give them to Alice Moll by next week so that they can be delivered to Summit.

HELP FLOOD VICTIMS:  Our Thrivent Action Team here at Grace is seeking donations from members of socks, underwear, footwear, and outfits for children 10 and under affected by the devastating floods in Fremont, Nebraska.  In addition, we will be shopping for items to help these young children who are living in temporary housing shelters.  All items will be shipped to them on July 1^st.  Thank you for your generosity.  John Loss

FINAL CORRECTION:  Please note that the Grace Ladies field trip to the Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center will take place on Tuesday, June 25^th.  Those planning to attend should meet at Grace at 11:00 AM.  Admission to the Heritage Center is approximately $7.  Please also note that lunch will follow at Olive Garden.

The next AMERICAN RED CROSS BLOOD DRIVE will take place at Grace on Saturday, June 29^th from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM.  For an appointment, please call 1-800-RED CROSS or visit redcrossblood.org.  Walk-Ins Welcome!

CARING FOR OTHERS is an admirable form of generosity and giving. The desire to care for others wells up from the desire to contribute to the needs of others. Generosity and willingness to share is good work that can honor God. For more information, contact Robert Wirth, LCMS Foundation Gift Planner @ robert.wirth (at) lfnd (dot) org or 716-863-4427.

JUNE SPECIAL MISSION ENVELOPE donations will go to Camp Pioneer, located on the shore of Lake Erie in Angola and owned by LCMS Eastern District.  Camp Pioneer offers daily admission passes including beach access and picnic areas, cottage rentals, camps and retreats for all ages, and special camps for military families, developmentally challenged, foster children, and inner-city youth.  They also host many special events and retreats.  As you can imagine, keeping our camp and its programs up and running becomes more expensive each year.  If you would like to support Camp Pioneer and its mission of sharing the love of Christ, please place your special mission envelope in the offering plate before the end of June.

PICNIC TODAY AFTER WORSHIP:  All members and visitors worshiping with us today are invited to stay after worship for our “end of the school year” picnic.  Please join the fun and enjoy some great fellowship along with hamburgers, hot dogs, side dishes, desserts, and beverages. 

LAST CHANCE!  Next Sunday is the last opportunity to donate to Summit Life Resources’ annual Baby Bottle Bank Fundraiser.  Banks are available in the narthex and chapel.  We are also accepting donations of diapers (sizes 1, 2, & 3) and baby toiletry items.  Summit works with teens and young women in our city that are experiencing unplanned and crisis pregnancy situations, offering counseling, parenting, and childcare classes.  They maintain a boutique of necessary baby items.  Shopping in the boutique is done with tokens earned each time a client attends a counseling or class session.  If you have questions about Summit, feel free to speak with Alice Moll.

CELL PHONES are now being accepted for recycling.  All models of phones, old, new, or broken, are accepted along with phone chargers.  A collection box is available in our new Donation Center.  SIM cards may be removed from phones before donating them if desired.  Please speak with Virginia Markel if you have questions.

GENTLY USED PURSE donations are now being accepted in the Donation Center.  They will be filled with sample size toiletries and feminine hygiene products and distributed to women in need served by the local agencies we partner with. 

PLEASE TAKE NOTE:  Postage stamps being donated to LWML must be cut leaving a half inch border of the envelope around the stamp.  Thank you for helping with this.  You can now find the collection container in our new Donation Center.

DONATION CENTER:  Check out our new Donation Center in the coat room.  We are currently accepting hearing aids, eyeglasses, gently used purses, sample/travel size toiletries, used printer cartridges, cancelled postage stamps, 5 x 7 picture frames, and old cell phones (working or broken).

CORRECTION:  Please note that the Grace Ladies fieldtrip to the Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center will take place on Tuesday, June 18^th and not on the 25^th as published in The Gleanings.  Admission to the Heritage Center is approximately

$7.  Please note that lunch will follow at Olive Garden.

The next AMERICAN RED CROSS BLOOD DRIVE will take place at Grace on Saturday, June 29^th from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM.  For an appointment, please call 1-800-RED CROSS or visit redcrossblood.org.  Walk-Ins Welcome!

VBS NEWS:

TODAY all volunteers meet after service for a brief (10-minute) meeting to arrange training and meeting times, confirm positions, turn in paperwork, and answer questions.

SAVE THE DATE: VBS Décor and Training Meeting is scheduled for Saturday, July 13^th.  Decor prep will be in the morning (10 AM – 12:30 PM – lunch provided), and an overview of the program and volunteer responsibilities will begin with lunch at 12:00 noon.

TO ENDOW OR NOT TO ENDOW is a thoughtful outcome for Christians who plan for this holy opportunity when God calls us Home. You can give a gift in your last plan that continues earthly contributions to keep ministry strong for generations to follow.  For more information, contact Robert Wirth, LCMS Foundation Gift Planner @ robert.wirth (at) lfnd (dot) org or 716-863-4427.

ALTAR FLOWERS today are offered to the Glory of God by Cathy Hoffman in memory of her son, Joseph Hoffman.  “The tears in my eyes I can wipe away, the ache in my heart will always stay” – June 8, 2007.

ALTAR FLOWERS today are offered to the Glory of God by Ken and Brenda Boyd in thanksgiving for 58 years of marriage, in celebration of Brenda’s 80^th birthday and in memory of their son Kraig’s birthday.SAVE THE DATE:  Rally Day – Sunday, September 8, 2019

JUNE SPECIAL MISSION ENVELOPE donations will go to Camp Pioneer, located on the shore of Lake Erie in Angola and owned by LCMS Eastern District.  Camp Pioneer offers daily admission passes including beach access and picnic areas, cottage rentals, camps and retreats for all ages, and special camps for military families, developmentally challenged, foster children, and inner-city youth.  They also host many special events and retreats.  As you can imagine, keeping our camp and its programs up and running becomes more expensive each year.  If you would like to support Camp Pioneer and its mission of sharing the love of Christ, please place your special mission envelope in the offering plate before the end of June.

NEXT WEEK is our last SUNDAY SCHOOL session for the school year.  Students will sing during worship and will participate by ushering and reading during the service.  All Sunday School families and Grace members are invited to stay for a picnic after worship.

PICNIC:  Next Sunday we will have our annual “end of the school year” picnic after worship.  All are invited.  Hamburgers, hot dogs, and beverages are provided.  Please sign up on the glass case to bring a side dish or dessert to share if you are able.

TWO WEEKS remain to donate to Summit Life Resources’ annual Baby Bottle Bank Fundraiser.  Banks are available in the narthex and chapel.  We are also accepting donations of diapers (sizes 1, 2, & 3) and baby toiletry items.  Summit works with teens and young women in our city that are experiencing unplanned and crisis pregnancy situations, offering counseling, parenting, and childcare classes.  They maintain a boutique of necessary baby items.  Shopping in the boutique is done with tokens earned each time a client attends a counseling or class session.  If you have questions about Summit, feel free to speak with Alice Moll.

DONATION CENTER:  Check out our new Donation Center in the coat room.  We are currently accepting hearing aids, eyeglasses, gently used purses, sample/travel size toiletries, used printer cartridges, cancelled postage stamps, 5 x 7 picture frames, and old cell phones (working or broken).

CELL PHONES are now being accepted for recycling.  All models of phones, old, new, or broken, are accepted along with phone chargers.  A collection box is available in our new Donation Center.  SIM cards may be removed from phones before donating them if desired.  Please speak with Virginia Markel if you have questions.

GENTLY USED PURSE donations are now being accepted in the Donation Center.  They will be filled with sample size toiletries and feminine hygiene products and distributed to women in need served by the local agencies we partner with. 

POSTAGE STAMPS FOR LUTHERAN WOMEN’S MISSIONARY LEAGUE (LWML):  The cancelled postage stamp collection container has been moved into the new Donation Center.  Please note–in order for the stamps to be donated, they must be cut leaving a half inch border of the envelope around the stamp.  Thank you for helping with this.

SECOND YEAR CONFIRMATION STUDENTS please remember that you and your parents will be meeting with Pastor after church today to make arrangements for your confirmation.  Please meet in the church office after the post-service greeting.

VOTERS MEETING taking place today, following worship to vote on the following officer positions:  President, Recording Secretary, Financial Secretary and Chairman of the Board of Trustees.

PRE-TEEN YOUTH, Grades 3-5 (next year’s 4-6). Have your questions answered, learn about your value, and help us name the Pre-Teen Youth Group!  This Friday, June 7th 7:00 – 9:00 PM. Bring a friend and a snack or drink to share! (Parent meeting begins at 8:40.) Contact: Lacey Bahr 525-5134.

Looking for something to do with the whole family? Holy Ghost Lutheran Church would like to invite you to the BERGHOLZ 5K AND 1-MILE FUN RUN/WALK happening on Saturday, June 8^th at 9:30 AM. Participants are invited to a post-race party with awards, food, and refreshments on the Holy Ghost Lutheran School campus. Paper applications are available on the glass display case or register online at runsignup.com/Race/NY/NIAGARAFALLS/Bergholz5K.

VBS NEWS:  (Contact:  Lacey Bahr 525-5134)

Registration:             The early registration deadline is approaching! Return paper registrations by June 30^th to the church office or go to gracenf.org/vbs to be entered into a drawing for De- Dee’s Dairy!

Youth Volunteers:    If you missed today’s meeting, catch the next one next week during Sunday School.

Adult Volunteers:     Save the date: Saturday, July 13th. Decor prep will be in the morning (10 AM – 12:30 PM – lunch provided), and an overview of the program and volunteer responsibilities will begin with lunch at 12:00 noon.

ALTAR FLOWERS are offered to the Glory of God and in honor of Beverly Mills’ 75^th birthday today, Sunday, June 2^nd with love from Debbie, Dave, Gary, Grail, Connor, Tyler, Alex and Sadie!

OUR LAST SUNDAY SCHOOL session is scheduled for two weeks from today on June 9^th.  Students will sing during worship on that day and will participate by ushering and reading during the service.  All are invited to a PICNIC AFTER WORSHIP with hot dogs, hamburgers, and drinks provided.  Please bring a side dish or dessert to share if you are able.

TODAY IS THE LAST OPPORTUNITY to donate to support our May Special Mission, Lutheran Braille Workers.  This organization works with the blind and visually impaired to provide Bibles, devotions, and other Christian literature in Braille, large print books, and audio materials throughout the United States and around the world. They recently developed a large print Bible with a specialized binding that meets prison safety standards so that they can respond to the daily requests they receive from prisoners reaching out to find hope and comfort.  They also provide LCMS devotions on audio through the Library of Congress, which makes these items available for free throughout the States.  If you wish to support this mission, the convenience envelopes found in the pews may be used, but please mark them clearly for “May Special Mission”.

BABY BOTTLE BANKS AND BABY ITEMS:  Banks are available in the narthex and chapel for those who wish to support Summit Life Resources’ annual fundraiser.  We are also accepting donations of diapers (sizes 1, 2, & 3) and baby toiletry items through Father’s Day (June 16).  Summit works with teens and young women in our city that are experiencing unplanned and crisis pregnancy situations, offering counseling, parenting, and childcare classes.  They maintain a boutique of necessary baby items.  Shopping in the boutique is done with tokens earned each time a client attends a counseling or class session.  If you have questions about Summit, feel free to speak with Alice Moll.

CELL PHONES AND PRINTER INK CARTRIDGES are being accepted for recycling.  All models of phones, old, new, or broken, are accepted along with phone chargers.  A box is available in the chapel for your donations of phones and cartridges.  SIM cards may be removed from phones before donating them if desired.  Please speak with Virginia Markel if you have questions.

SECOND YEAR CONFIRMATION STUDENTS please remember that you and your parents will be meeting with Pastor after church on Sunday, June 2^nd to make arrangements for your confirmation.  Please meet in the church office after the post-service greeting.

The LEWISTON CHORALEERS will be performing at Grace today, Sunday, May 26^th at 2:00 PM.  Admission is $5 and Children 12 and under are free.  A reception will follow with punch and cake served!  This group has been presenting seasonal concerts since 2007.  See Grace’s Bulletin Board for a listing of their upcoming performances or visit www.lewistonchoraleers.com.

The next meeting of the GRACE LADIES will take place this Tuesday, May 28^th at 7:00 PM at Grace Lutheran Church.  Barbara Bidak, Executive Director of Summit Life Outreach Center Inc. will be the guest speaker.  This event will be hosted by Joyce Learned and Lin Matiasz

Mark your calendars for the VOTERS MEETING on Sunday, June 2^nd following worship to vote on the following officer positions:  President, Recording Secretary, Financial Secretary and Chairman of the Board of Trustees.  Descriptions of these positions can be found on the glass case.

ALTAR FLOWERS today are offered to the Glory of God and in memory of our parents/grandparents 60^th wedding anniversary, May 24^th and our father/grandfather’s birthday, May 26^th by daughter Kathi Dubuque and granddaughter Tara Post.

NEXT SUNDAY IS THE LAST OPPORTUNITY to donate to support our May Special Mission, Lutheran Braille Workers.  This organization works with the blind and visually impaired to provide Bibles, devotions, and other Christian literature in Braille, large print books, and audio materials throughout the United States and around the world. They recently developed a large print Bible with a specialized binding that meets prison safety standards so that they can respond to the daily requests they receive from prisoners reaching out to find hope and comfort.  They also provide LCMS devotions on audio through the Library of Congress, which makes these items available for free throughout the States.  If you wish to support this mission, please place your mission envelope in the offering plate.

BABY BOTTLE BANKS are available in the narthex and chapel for those who wish to support Summit Life Resources’ annual fundraiser.  We will also be accepting donations through Father’s Day (June 16) of diapers (sizes 1, 2, & 3) and baby toiletry items.  Summit is located on Pine Avenue near the City Market.  They work with teens and young women experiencing unplanned and crisis pregnancy situations, offering counseling, parenting, and child care classes.  They maintain a boutique of necessary baby items.  Shopping in the boutique is done with tokens earned each time a client attends a counseling or class session.  If you have questions about Summit, feel free to speak with Alice Moll.

SOCIAL MINISTRIES will meet today after worship.  This will be our last meeting until September.  New members are welcome!  A light lunch will be served during the meeting.

SUNDAY SCHOOL DONATIONS:   Please check with superintendents Jane Schulz or Wendy Coleman before leaving donations of any type in the Sunday School office or on the table by the downstairs kitchen.  While we appreciate your generous intentions, please understand that items that we cannot use make extra work for our volunteers as we try to maintain an orderly, accessible storage system for our teachers.  Thank you for your understanding and support.

THANK YOU for your support of our April Special Mission.  Your generous donations, along with Thrivent’s offer to match funds, enabled us to donate $1200 to Orphan Grain Train’s work in Nebraska as they continue to aid in the recovery from the severe wind damage and massive flooding associated with the March winter hurricane.

The Berghloz Ladies Auxiliary will be hosting a CHIAVETTA’S CHICKEN BBQ today, Sunday, May 19^th starting at 11:30 AM and held at Bergholz Fire Hall, 2470 Niagara Road, Wheatfield, NY.  Dinners are $11.00 and are available for take-out or eat-in.  All proceeds will go to support the Bergholz firefighters and help with the purchase of new equipment to better serve the residents of the Town of Wheatfield.

Grace Lutheran Church will be one of the polling places for the ANNUAL SCHOOL ELECTION/BUDGET VOTE of the Niagara Falls City School District.  Voting is in-regards to adopting the annual budget and for the election of Board members.  Polls will be on Tuesday, May 21^st from 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM.

The LEWISTON CHORALEERS will be performing at Grace next Sunday, May 26^th at 2:00 PM.  Admission is $5 and Children 12 and under are free.  This group has been presenting seasonal concerts since 2007.  See Grace’s Bulletin Board for a listing of their upcoming performance or visit www.lewistonchoraleers.com.

The next meeting of the GRACE LADIES will take place on Tuesday, May 28^th at 7:00 PM at Grace Lutheran Church.  Barbara Bidak, Executive Director of Summit Life Outreach Center Inc. will be the guest speaker.  This event will be hosted by Joyce Learned and Lin Matiasz

Looking for something to do with the whole family? Holy Ghost Lutheran Church would like to invite you to the BERGHOLZ 5K AND 1-MILE FUN RUN/WALK happening on Saturday, June 8^th at 9:30 AM. Participants are invited to a post-race party with awards, food, and refreshments on the Holy Ghost Lutheran School campus. Paper applications are available on the glass display case or register online at runsignup.com/Race/NY/NIAGARAFALLS/Bergholz5K.

Mark your calendars for a VOTERS MEETING on Sunday, June 2^nd following worship to vote on the following officer positions:  President, Recording Secretary, Financial Secretary and Chairman of the Board of Trustees.

Registration is now available for VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL!  You can register online at gracenf.org/vbs or pick up a paper copy and return it to the church office.

CHARITABLE GIFTS OF APPRECIATED ASSETS are economically effective in supporting the Lord’s Work during life. If given to ministry before selling, these gifts conserve taxable gain and provide deductible gifts valued at full market value. Contact Robert Wirth, LCMS Foundation Gift Planner @ robert.wirth (at) lfnd (dot) org or 716-863-4427 to learn how a fellow believer can help you plan and direct your passion to give to your loved ones and ministries you care about through your estate and financial gift plans.

SUNDAY SCHOOL DONATIONS:   Please check with superintendents Jane Schulz or Wendy Coleman before leaving donations of any type in the Sunday School office or on the table by the downstairs kitchen.  While we appreciate your generous intentions, please understand that items that we cannot use make extra work for our volunteers as we try to maintain an orderly, accessible storage system for our teachers.  Thank you for your understanding and support.

MAY SPECIAL MISSION ENVELOPES are designated to support Lutheran Braille Workers.  This organization works with the blind and visually impaired to provide Bibles, devotions, and other Christian literature in Braille, large print books, and audio materials throughout the United States and around the world. They recently developed a large print Bible with a specialized binding that meets prison safety standards so that they can respond to the daily requests they receive from prisoners reaching out to find hope and comfort.  They also provide LCMS devotions on audio through the Library of Congress, which makes these items available for free throughout the States.  If you wish to support this mission, please place your mission envelope in the offering plate before the end of May.

BABY BOTTLE BANKS are available in the narthex and chapel for those who wish to support Summit Life Resources’ annual fundraiser.  We will also be accepting donations through Father’s Day (June 16) of diapers (sizes 1, 2, & 3) and baby toiletry items.  Summit is located on Pine Avenue near the City Market.  They work with teens and young women experiencing unplanned and crisis pregnancy situations, offering counseling, parenting, and child care classes.  They maintain a boutique of necessary baby items.  Shopping in the boutique is done with tokens earned each time a client attends a counseling or class session.  If you have questions about Summit, feel free to speak with Alice Moll.

SOCIAL MINISTRIES will meet next Sunday after worship.  This will be our last meeting until September.  New members are welcome!  A light lunch will be served during the meeting.

“SHARE YOUR MEMORIES – INTERESTING ARTIFACTS AND HEIRLOOMS” is the next program at the meeting of the Historical Society of North German Settlements on Thursday, May 16^th.  The meeting will be at 7:00 PM at the Wheatfield Community Center, 2790 Church Rd., Wheatfield.  All are invited to bring an item and tell us about it. Refreshments will be served.

Pre-Teen Event (Grades 3-5) “BEGINNINGS” Part 1 will take place this coming Saturday, May 18^th from 10:00 AM – 12:30 PM.  Lunch provided.  A brief parent meeting will take place prior to pick-up at 12:00 PM.  If you are able, $5 will help cover the cost of food.  Part 2 will come during the 2019-2020 school year.  Please contact Lacy Bahr at 525-5134 for additional information.

LWML – LUTHERAN WOMEN IN MISSION:  Niagara Zone of the Eastern District cordially invites you to “A Spring Gathering” on Saturday, May 18^th at Trinity Lutheran Church, 67 Saxton Street, Lockport, NY  14094.  Registration is $5 from 9:00 AM – 9:30 AM and lunch will be provided.  Presentation topics include – Reaching Culture and Generations, Engaging and Maintaining Volunteers, Change is good . . . You go first.

CHARITABLE TRUSTS OFFER MULTIPLE BENEFITS. Created by the US Congress to avoid capital gain taxes when appreciated assets are transferred, they offer tax deductions while generating lifetime income and preserving remainder values to bless ministry. Contact Robert Wirth, LCMS Foundation Gift Planner @ robert.wirth (at) lfnd (dot) org or 716-863-4427 to learn how a fellow believer can help you plan and direct your passion to give to your loved ones and ministries you care about through your estate and financial gift plans.