The Office will be closed Monday, October 11th for Columbus Day.

MONTHLY MISSION ENVELOPES for October continue to be designated to support Christian education at St. John and Holy Ghost Lutheran Schools.  We have several members who are (or have been) faculty members, including Marla Crawford, Jane Schulz, Lacey Bahr, and Katelyn Pantano.  They, along with Pastor Bahr, would welcome any questions you may have about our schools and the advantages of Christian education in today’s world.  

CHOIR REHEARSALS will resume THIS WEDNESDAY at 7 PM in the chapel as we prepare to sing for Reformation, Thanksgiving, and Christmas Eve.  New members are needed.  If you are interested, please join us this Wednesday. The only requirement to be a choir member is a desire to sing praises to our Lord.  If you have questions, please see Maye Smith or Ross Folmsbee.

A SIGN UP SHEET for TRUNK OR TREAT is available on the glass case in the chapel.  This year’s event will be held on Saturday, October 30, from 3 – 4:30 PM.  We need volunteers to give out treats from their cars, or to monitor a game or freebie table.  Costumes are welcomed but not mandatory.  Thank you for supporting this community outreach event.

NEEDED:  Donations of individually wrapped candy or treats for use at Trunk or Treat would be appreciated, and can be left on the card table in the chapel.  This helps to defray the cost to our volunteers.  Thank you for helping in this way.

HARVEST FOOD COLLECTION:  We have tables set up in the chapel and narthex to receive donations of non-perishable food items.  Your gifts will be used by St. Vincent de Paul food pantry on Military Road to restock after their Thanksgiving distribution to those in need.  Although all donations are appreciated, supply chain issues have created a particular need for canned vegetables (especially corn), canned soups, tuna, and Ramen noodles.  Our neighbors in need will appreciate your kindness.  (Please be sure your donations do not expire before December 2021.)

TURKEYS & HAMS are needed by local soup kitchens for the upcoming holiday dinners they will provide.  Donations can be stored in the downstairs kitchen freezer.  Please ask an usher for assistance to carry your donation if needed.  Last year we donated 27 turkeys and hams, and ALL of them were used by the agencies we partner with.

THE ALTAR GUILD is currently looking for members to join. The guild is run on a monthly commitment and you will be matched with a current guild member and/or trained on the weekly guild duties. Please contact either the church office or Erika Tuscher if you are interested.

John Loss will be speaking at the Grace Ladies meeting on October 19^th at 6:30pm. Everyone is invited to attend. His mission is the homeless.

American Red Cross blood drive will be held here at Grace on Saturday, October 23^rd from 8:30am – 1:00pm.

BEYOND THE SURFACE Wednesday Christian education continues this Wednesday, October 13^th at 10:00am. We will be looking at the following verses: Ecclesiastes 5: 10-20, Hebrews 4: 1-13, and Mark 10: 23-31.

SPECIAL MISSION ENVELOPES for September and October are designated to support Christian education at St. John and Holy Ghost Lutheran Schools.  We have several members who are (or have been) faculty members, including Marla Crawford, Jane Schulz, Lacey Bahr, and Katelyn Pantano.  They, along with Pastor Bahr, would welcome any questions you may have about our schools and the advantages of Christian education in today’s world.  

CHOIR REHEARSALS will resume on WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 13 at 7 PM in the chapel as we prepare to sing for Reformation, Thanksgiving, and Christmas Eve.  New members are needed.  If you are interested, please join us on October 13.  The only requirement to be a choir member is a desire to sing praises to our Lord.

TRUNK OR TREAT will be held on Saturday, October 30, from 3 – 4:30 PM.  We need volunteers to give out treats from their cars.  A sign up sheet is available on the glass case in the chapel.  Donations of candy and other treats are also needed, and can be left on the card table in the chapel.  Thank you for supporting this community outreach event.

HARVEST FOOD COLLECTION:  Next Sunday we will begin this annual fall Social Ministries project.  We will have tables set up in the chapel and narthex to receive donations of non-perishable food items.  Your gifts will be delivered to St. Vincent de Paul food pantry on Military Road to help them restock after their Thanksgiving distribution to those in need.  Although all donations are appreciated, they are especially in need of canned vegetables (particularly corn), canned soups, tuna, and Ramen noodles.  Our neighbors in need will appreciate your kindness as you support this project.  (Please be sure your donations do not expire before December 2021.)

TURKEYS & HAMS are also being requested by local soup kitchens for the upcoming holiday dinners they will provide.  Donations can be stored in the downstairs kitchen freezer.  Please ask an usher for assistance to carry your donation if needed.

THE ALTAR GUILD is currently looking for members to join. The guild is run on a monthly commitment and you will be matched with a current guild member and/or trained on the weekly guild duties. Please contact either the church office or Erika Tuscher if you are interested.

BEYOND THE SURFACE Wednesday Christian education begins this week, October 6^th at 10:00am. We will be looking at the following verses: Amos 5: 6-7, 10-15; Hebrews 3: 12-19; and Mark 10: 17-22.

The 2021 FLOWER CHART still has some open dates for the remainder of the year and is hanging in the narthex. Cost for a centerpiece is $45, or you can choose two vases at a cost of $56.

If you sign up or already have signed up for a date, please find the altar flower order form outside either sanctuary entrance. Please complete the form and return to the church office no later than the Tuesday before your date.

FLU SHOTS TODAY:  Rite Aid will be here after worship today to offer flu shots.  Please head to the chapel after the service.  Volunteers will provide you with the necessary forms and directions as needed.  Most insurances are accepted.

SPECIAL MISSION ENVELOPES for September and October are designated to support Christian education at St. John and Holy Ghost Lutheran Schools.  We have several members who are (or have been) faculty members, including Marla Crawford, Jane Schulz, Lacey Bahr, and Katelyn Pantano.  They, along with Pastor Bahr, would welcome any questions you may have about our schools and the advantages of Christian education in today’s world.  

CHOIR REHEARSALS will resume on WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 13 at 7 PM in the chapel.  New members are needed.  We plan to meet on an intermittent schedule to prepare for upcoming Reformation, Thanksgiving, and Christmas Eve services.   If you are interested, please join us on October 13.  The only requirement to be a choir member is a desire to sing praises to our Lord.

MARK YOUR CALENDARS:  This year’s Trunk or Treat will be held on Saturday, October 30, from 3 – 4:30 PM.  Sign up sheets will be available soon.  Watch for more information coming soon.

American Red Cross blood drive will be held here at Grace on Saturday, October 23^rd from 8:30am – 1:00pm.

NEXT SUNDAY Rite Aid will be offering a FLU SHOTS at Grace after worship.  Most insurances are accepted.  Appointments are not needed.

SOCIAL MINISTRIES will meet after worship today in the CHAPEL.  Please mark your calendars.  Pizza and drinks will be provided.  New members are welcome.

SPECIAL MISSION ENVELOPES for September and October are designated to support Christian education at St. John and Holy Ghost Lutheran Schools.  Both of these schools teach and reinforce Christian beliefs and values to their students.  In addition, they are ranked as top schools among all public and private schools in our area.  Many of our congregation’s families have sent their children to these schools, and we have several members who are (or have been) faculty members, including Marla Crawford, Jane Schulz, Lacey Bahr, and Katelyn Pantano.  They, along with Pastor Bahr, would welcome any questions you may have about our schools and the advantages of Christian education in today’s world.  

CHOIR REHEARSALS will resume soon.  New members are needed.  We plan to meet on an intermittent schedule to prepare for upcoming special and holiday services.   If you were attending choir rehearsals prior to COVID, we have you on our contact list.  If you did not previously attend but are interested, please leave your contact information with the office.  Dates and times will be available soon.

GLEANINGS DEADLINE was last week, if you have any last minute submissions please have them into the church office no later than Monday, September 20^th.

The 2021 FLOWER CHART still has open dates for the remainder of the year and is hanging in the narthex. Cost for a centerpiece is $45, or you can choose two vases at a cost of $56.

If you sign up or already have signed up for a date, please find the altar flower order form outside either sanctuary entrance. Please complete the form and return to the church office no later than the Tuesday before your date.

Fall GLEANINGS submissiondeadline is this Wednesday, September 15^th.

FLU SHOTS:  Rite Aid will be offering a flu shot clinic at Grace after worship on September 26.  Most insurances are accepted.  Appointments are not needed.

NEXT SUNDAY SOCIAL MINISTRIES will meet in person after worship in the CHAPEL.  Please mark your calendars.  Pizza and drinks will be provided.  New members are welcome.

THE MONTHLY MISSION for September and October will support Christian education at St. John and Holy Ghost Lutheran Schools.  Both of these schools teach and reinforce Christian beliefs and values to their students.  In addition, they are ranked as top schools among all public and private schools in our area.  Many of our congregation’s families have sent their children to these schools, and we have several members who are (or have been) faculty members, including Marla Crawford, Jane Schulz, Lacey Bahr, and Katelyn Pantano.  They, along with Pastor Bahr, would welcome any questions you may have about our schools and the advantages of Christian education in today’s world.  

RALLY DAY on Sunday, September 12^th – Let’s all come together as family and friends at Grace for Christian Education, Worship, and a Congregational Picnic. Check your Gleanings for more information. Picnic sign-up sheets are available at both sanctuary entrances for those interested.

ENDURING FAITH LESSON 1 & 2 Summaries – Sunday, September 12^th

1: The lesson this week is “A Mighty Wonder”. In six days – through His spoken Word alone – the heavenly Father creates a universe so vast and complex it defies our limited human understanding. Humankind, the crown of His creation, made in His own image, comes to be through the intimate work of His hands and with His own breath. Discuss the wonders of God’s creation with your family.

2: Today, we will study “The Fall and a Promise”. The slithery serpent caused Eve to doubt God’s Word with one simple question: “Did God actually say…?” (Genesis 3:1). Seeking to gain wisdom, Eve and Adam rebel against their Creator. Suddenly aware of their condition before God, they vainly attempt to hide their sinful exposure. With sin comes punishment that is just; yet our heavenly Father does not leave humankind without hope. Instead, He promises One who will come to rescue His people from the jaws of death and Satan. As a family, discuss the importance of God’s promise of the Savior.

THANK YOU for your generous donations to our summer mission project of collecting SCHOOL SUPPLIES, SOCKS, AND UNDERWEAR.  Your donations will be packed up for delivery this week.  Teachers and nurses in our inner city schools will distribute your gifts directly to their children in need.  Thank you for supporting this project. 

FLU SHOTS:  Rite Aid will be offering a flu shot clinic at Grace after worship on September 26.  Most insurances are accepted.  Appointments are not needed.

SOCIAL MINISTRIES will meet in person after worship on September 19.  Please mark your calendars.  A light lunch will be available during the meeting.  New members are welcome.

SPECIAL MISSION ENVELOPES for September and October are designated to support Christian education at St. John and Holy Ghost Lutheran Schools.  Both of these schools teach and reinforce Christian beliefs and values to their students.  In addition, they are ranked as top schools among all public and private schools in our area.  Many of our congregation’s families have sent their children to these schools, and we have several members who are (or have been) faculty members, including Marla Crawford, Jane Schulz, Lacey Bahr, and Katelyn Pantano.  They, along with Pastor Bahr, would welcome any questions you may have about our schools and the advantages of Christian education in today’s world.  

FALL OFFICE HOURS begin the week of September 12^th. They are as follows: Sunday 8:30 am – 12:30 pm and Monday/Wednesday/Thursday from 10:00 am – 2:00pm.

GLEANINGS DEADLINE for the fall (Oct.-Nov.) issue is Wednesday, September 15^th.

The 2021 FLOWER CHART still has open dates for the remainder of the year and is hanging in the narthex. Cost for a centerpiece is $45, or you can choose two vases at a cost of $56.

If you sign up or already have signed up for a date, please find the altar flower order form outside either sanctuary entrance. Please complete the form and return to the church office no later than the Tuesday before your date.

We will be celebrating RALLY DAY on Sunday, September 12^th – complete with Christian Education, Worship and a PICNIC! Watch future bulletins and upcoming Gleanings for more information.

PICNIC sign-up: If you are able and want to contribute to the Rally Day picnic, there is a sign-up sheet at either sanctuary entrance.

NEXT SUNDAY our summer mission project of SCHOOL SUPPLIES, SOCKS, AND UNDERWEAR will come to a close.  All donations will be delivered near the beginning of September.  Teachers and nurses in our inner city schools will distribute your gifts directly to their children in need.  Thank you for supporting this project. 

IF YOU WISH TO SUPPORT our August special mission, Heart, Love and Soul, as they continue to provide over 200 free meals daily and aid over 700 people from their food pantry, please place your donation (clearly marked) in today’s offering, or donate online at gracenf.org by August 31 (Tuesday).

FLU SHOTS:  Rite Aid will be offering a flu shot clinic at Grace after worship on September 26.  Most insurances are accepted.  More information will follow in the coming weeks.

SOCIAL MINISTRIES will meet in person after worship on September 19.  Please mark your calendars.  A light lunch will be available during the meeting.

The 2021 FLOWER CHART still has open dates for the remainder of the year and is hanging in the narthex. Cost for a centerpiece is $45, or you can choose two vases at a cost of $56.

If you sign up or already have signed up for a date, please find the altar flower order form outside either sanctuary entrance. Please complete the form and return to the church office no later than the Tuesday before your date.

GLEANINGS DEADLINE is this week! Please have all submissions into the office by Tuesday, August 24^th.

We will be celebrating RALLY DAY on Sunday, September 12^th – complete with Christian Education, Worship and a PICNIC! Watch future bulletins and upcoming Gleanings for more information.

TWO MORE WEEKS:  Our summer mission project of SCHOOL SUPPLIES, SOCKS, AND UNDERWEAR will soon be coming to a close.  We will continue to accept donations through Labor Day Weekend (only two weeks away).  There are tables available in the narthex and chapel to accept your gifts.  All donations will be distributed directly to our inner city elementary children in need by the teachers and nurses at Niagara Street, Kalfas, and Harry Abate schools in September as they identify their student’s needs.  Thank you for supporting this project.  We have been in contact with the schools, and they have assured us that they have many children that will be grateful for your help as they begin their new school year.

NEXT SUNDAY is the last Sundayto use your AUGUST SPECIAL MISSION ENVELOPES to support Heart, Love & Soul on Ontario Avenue in Niagara Falls.  This agency provides over 200 free meals daily to those in need, and are currently aiding over 700 people from their food pantry.  In addition to their nutrition related services, they offer health services, as well as assistance with issues such as housing, financial need, transportation, and substance abuse.  They also maintain a “necessary shop” for their guests which provides toiletries and other items that cannot be purchased with SNAP benefits (food stamps).  If you wish to support Heart, Love & Soul, please place your August mission envelope in the offering plate or donate to “special missions” online at gracenf.org.  

FLU SHOTS:  For those who like to plan ahead, Rite Aid will be offering a flu shot clinic at Grace after worship on September 26.  Most insurances are accepted.  More information will follow in the coming weeks.

SOCIAL MINISTRIES will meet in person after worship on September 19.  Please mark your calendars.  A light lunch will be available during the meeting.

ENDING SOON:  Our summer mission project of SCHOOL SUPPLIES, SOCKS, AND UNDERWEAR will soon be coming to a close.  We will continue to accept donations through Labor Day Weekend (only three weeks away).  There are tables available in the narthex and chapel to accept your gifts.  All donations will be distributed directly to our inner city elementary children in need by the teachers and nurses at Niagara Street, Kalfas, and Harry Abate schools in September as they identify their student’s needs.  Thank you for supporting this project.  We have been in contact with the schools, and they have assured us that they have many children that will be grateful for your help as they begin their new school year.

TWO WEEKS REMAIN to use your AUGUST SPECIAL MISSION ENVELOPES, designated to help Heart, Love & Soul on Ontario Avenue in Niagara Falls.  This agency provides over 200 free meals daily to those in need, and are currently aiding over 700 people from their food pantry.  In addition to their nutrition related services, they offer health services, as well as assistance with issues such as housing, financial need, transportation, and substance abuse.  They also maintain a “necessary shop” for their guests which provides toiletries and other items that cannot be purchased with SNAP benefits (food stamps).  If you wish to support Heart, Love & Soul, please place your August mission envelope in the offering plate or donate to “special missions” online at gracenf.org.  

THANK YOU for your generous donations to our July special mission.  We were able to send a donation of $650 to Niagara Hospice to support their work with seriously ill patients in our community.

GLEANINGS DEADLINE is coming up soon. Please have all submissions into the office by Tuesday, August 24^th.

The 2021 FLOWER CHART still has open dates for the remainder of the year and is hanging in the narthex. Cost for a centerpiece is $45, or you can choose two vases at a cost of $56. If you sign up or already have signed up for a date, please find the altar flower order form outside either sanctuary entrance. Please complete the form and return to the church office no later than the Tuesday before your date.

Donations of SCHOOL SUPPLIES, SOCKS, AND UNDERWEAR are the being accepted for our summer mission program.  There are tables available in the narthex and chapel to accept your gifts.  All donations will be distributed directly to our inner-city elementary children in need by the teachers and nurses at Niagara Street, Kalfas, and Harry Abate schools in September as they identify their student’s needs.  Thank you for supporting this project.  We have been in contact with the schools, and they have assured us that they have many children that will be grateful for your help as they begin their new school year.

AUGUST SPECIAL MISSION ENVELOPES have been designated to help Heart, Love & Soul on Ontario Avenue in Niagara Falls.  This agency provides over 200 free meals daily to those in need, and are currently aiding over 700 people from their food pantry.  In addition to their nutrition related services, they offer health services, as well as assistance with issues such as housing, financial need, transportation, and substance abuse.  They also maintain a “necessary shop” for their guests which provides toiletries and other items that cannot be purchased with SNAP benefits (food stamps).  If you wish to support Heart, Love & Soul, please place your August mission envelope in the offering plate or donate to “special missions” online at gracenf.org before the end of the month.

Community Party!  Thursday, August 19th, 6-8 pm.  If you would like to give out treats or lead a game, you can do that from the trunk of your car or by raising a canopy you provide!  Sign up at either sanctuary entrance.

Donations requested: Individually packaged candy, snacks or kids’ drinks to hand out at the Community Party.  Please label them “Community Party” and bring them to the “Ladies Lounge”.

The 2021 FLOWER CHART still has open dates for the remainder of the year and is hanging in the narthex. Cost for a centerpiece is $45, or you can choose two vases at a cost of $56. If you sign up or already have signed up for a date, please find the altar flower order form outside either sanctuary entrance. Please complete the form and return to the church office no later than the Tuesday before your date.