Sunday Morning Services
8:15 am and 10:45 am
8:15 am and 10:45 am
2023 Lenten Service Schedule
| Week 1: | Isaiah of Babylon | Wednesday, 3/01, at 7:30 pm |
| Week 2: | The Prodigal Son | Wednesday, 3/08, at 7:30 pm |
| Week 3: | The Blind Man | Wednesday, 3/15, at 7:30 pm |
| Week 4: | The Woman at the Well | Wednesday, 3/22, at 7:30 pm |
| Week 5: | Paul | Wednesday, 3/29, at 7:30 pm |
2023 Holy Week Schedule
| Seder Meal | 4/6, at 5:30 pm |
| Maundy Thursday Service | 4/6, at 7:30 pm |
| Good Friday Service | 4/7, at 1:00 pm |
| Easter Sunrise Service | 4/9, at 7:00 am |
| 2nd Easter Service | 4/9, at 10:00 am |
Get Moving...
Have you ever noticed that God’s people always seemed to be on the move? Abraham was going to the land the Lord would show him. Moses went from floating on the Nile, to fleeing Egypt, to returning to deliver the children of Israel to the promised land. That included the 40 years of wandering in the wilderness! Wherever they were going God was present with them in the Tabernacle. Later, God’s people where taken away into captivity, and although some returned, many were dispersed throughout the world.
When Jesus was born, Mary and Joseph had traveled to Bethlehem, then they and the Christ child fled to Egypt, then on to Nazareth. Jesus in His earthly ministry was seeming always on the move. The Son of Man had ‘no place to lay his head’. Which, really gets to the point I wanted to make. Jesus set His face to go to Jerusalem to be the redeeming sacrifice for all people on the Cross. At the time, his disciples, followers, and even those against him didn’t understand. Do we?
This Lenten season we also have the opportunity to take that journey to the cross again, to stand in awe and wonder at what manner of love is this. Let’s make March a month of movement. Let’s walk together through the Word reading the Bible. Let’s walk together to the upper room, Garden, courtyard, and cross. Let’s take up our cross and follow HIM!
Is it time to get moving? Get back to church, especially if it has been awhile. Come on Wednesday nights for an intimate time of reflection on God’s “Amazing Grace”.
The time between pastors is not a time to stop moving. Jesus said, “You will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and to the ends of the earth”. And, “The harvest is plentiful”. I think it is easy to say, when this happens or when that happens, then I’ll get back to going again. Don’t wait for the “right time” to get moving; because NOW is that time.
Peace and Joy in Christ,
Pastor Mark Gilson
Grace, Mercy and Peace to you all from God our Father and our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
I am excited to share this year’s theme for St. James’ VBS. We are focusing on John 8:12 which says...
“Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”
This is the perfect theme going into 2023. We will be focusing on the absolute Truth of who Jesus Christ is and what He came to do for you and I. Watch for upcoming information about VBS and how you can be involved!
This month, there is quite a bit happening! We will be taking our 8th grade class to the Ark Encounter on March 24th. This is a faith edifying experience. Be in prayer for these kids as they take everything in from this trip.
If you have not already, sign up for our Women’s Retreat on March 11th. This is an incredible opportunity to connect with people from our community in a new way. Focus of this retreat is relationships in and outside the church body. Don’t miss out!
On March 19th, we will be going to Defy Gravity (the trampoline park) with our youth (6th - 12th grade). Cost will be $25/participant for the park and Pizza Ranch (usually $21.99 +Tax for the park and $15 for Pizza Ranch). Sign up today. Last day to sign up and bring payments will be March 12th.
March 28th, join 40 Days for Life to pray for an end to abortion in Grand Rapids. St. John’s Grand Haven along with Paula Cate have organized an event to come together for prayerful ministry in Grand Rapids. If you are interested, meet at St. John’s at 9:45 am on March 28th to carpool to Grand Rapids for this opportunity to pray in Grand Rapids with other Christians. The event will go from 11:00 am – Noon.
Mark your calendar for April 22nd for a church Work Bee. Come anytime between 9:00 am – 1:00 pm to help clean up our outdoors and work on some projects inside.
A huge thank you to everyone who came to the Alaska Mission Team Game night. Be on the lookout for out next community event. The team will be organizing another Silent Auction partnering with our High School Ministry.
Finally, continue to be in prayer for our church as we continue to work through this transition into a new Pastor. It is exciting times to be in right now. Pray for Pastor Gilson as he leads us, pray for our transition team and pray for our congregation that we all step into these next few months. Let’s connect more, share more, and discuss how we can talk more about Jesus and the wonderful gifts that He has blessed us with.
In Christ,
Russell Baumann ~ John 3:30
Good Shepherd Preschool
Coming Soon! Open House!Tuesday, April 25th, from 6:00-7:00pm
Visit our classrooms and see for yourself why St. James' very own preschool is just the right fit for your child. Building a foundation of love for Jesus while we learn and discover is the right start for our kids. We look forward to sharing our classroom with you and share our philosophy of working with young children. We will have registration information available. If you are unable to attend, please call Ellen Grimm for registration materials. (231-730-1726)
Thank you to all those who ordered Cookie Dough and Carmel Corn. Your support is greatly appreciated!
In His Name ~ Ellen Grimm
Midweek Announcements
Starting on February 22nd, Midweek will be ending at 7:15 each week due to the Lenten services that follow.Our last day of Midweek will be March 29th. We are so blessed to be able to offer these programs, and so grateful you choose to be with us every Wednesday! Thanks for a wonderful year!
We are looking for a few more volunteers to help out with Midweek next year. If you are interested, please contact Marci Bentz or Russell Baumann.
Sunday School News
Spring is coming and I can feel it! We're looking forward to warmer weather, sunny skies and the humbling, powerful Lent season. In Sunday school, we are introducing New Testament stories and sharing the story of Jesus's life. The kids are thriving and doing so well. We have a great group of kids and it has been rewarding watching them grow and learn this year. We have just passed the half way mark and are settled into an efficient groove now. We are beginning to plan our traditional Palm Sunday singing during both services. I know many of you are excited for the opportunity to see all those young faces singing in the sanctuary. This year, Palm Sunday does fall right during Spring Break. If your family is involved in Sunday school, and you plan on being on vacation that week, please reach out and let me know so we can better plan for that day. Thank you again for trusting us to teach and guide your children toward Jesus. It's such an honor, and an exciting responsibility. We have fun plans through the end of the year, and even some plans already for next year!Amber Lanning
Sunday School Superintendent
Transition Team
Brad VanBergen, Erika VanBergen, Keith Ramthun, Greg Neubauer, Karen Neubauer, Ron Bailey, Alan Mayville, Tom Mott, Russell Baumann, Ellen Grimm, & Terri Zeller. The role of the transition team is to collect and compile information from YOU, our church family, and to keep us progressing forward toward. We have divided into three groups: Survey Committee, a Call Committee, Document & Financial Committee. Each group has specific tasks which will aide in the process.There is a Transition Team meeting scheduled for Sunday, 3/5/23, at 12:00 pm (after 2nd service).
Amazing Grace!
Join us for our Amazing Grace Lenten series based on the beloved song that celebrates its 250th anniversary this year.Week 1: Isaiah of Babylon ~ March 1st
In this week's service, we will see God's amazing grace at work in the life of the prophet Isaiah, who proclaimed to God's people the salvation that was to come through the Suffering Servant. Our call in Lent is to speak that same message of salvation found in the suffering and death of Jesus, who came not to be served but to serve.
Week 2: The Prodigal Son ~ March 8th
In this week's service, we hear Jesus tell of the great love of a father who lavished amazing grace upon the Prodigal Son, a picture of our Heavenly Father's lavish compassion toward us through his Son Jesus. We were lost but now are found.
Week 3: The Blind Man March 15th
In this week's service, we witness Jesus bringing sight to a man born blind, giving the man the added spiritual vision to see the amazing grace of God found in Jesus, who heals us all. We were blind but now we see.
Week 4: The Woman at the Well ~ March 22rd
In this week's service, we listen to Jesus teach a woman at the well of his amazing grace poured out for us abundantly, which satisfies our thirsting souls for all eternity. Taste and see that the Lord is good.
Week 5: Paul ~ March 29th
In this week's service, we marvel at the story of amazing grace in the life of Paul, who turned from persecutor of Christ to proclaimer of our Lord through the mighty power of the Holy Spirit. In the same way, cross of Christ changes us all from enemy to friend.
St. James Women's Retreat
Saturday, March 11th, from 9:00 am -1:30 pm. The cost is $10/person includes lunch and a bookTime for ourselves with friends is a precious gift to ourselves. I look forward to share some quality time with all of you. Anyone from high school through 101 are invited to attend. The strong friendship built on a shared love of our Lord is vital.
Join us for breakfast treats at 9:00.
Worship & Praise with song
Bible Study time - we will study God's Grace to us
Lunch prepared for us at 12:00
Closing thoughts and Worship & Praise
Any questions, please feel free to give me a call. I'm excited to join together again!
Ellen Grimm ~ 231-730-1726
Love Family News
A grandpa that has guardianship of his two grandchildren, passed away in February. Both children have disabilities and their specialists are in Grand Rapids. Grandma is now full time single parent. Any monies coming in this month will go toward gift cards for her. If you would like to donate gift cards for gas, groceries, or meals; please leave in the office or give to Kim DuBois. Thank you!Fond Farewell
After prayerful consideration, Ellen Grimm has decided to retire after serving as Director at Good Shepherd Preschool from it's beginning in 1983. We would like to celebrate her for the years she has dedicated to serving God, by teaching His little ones.Through the years, over 770 children have been greeted by her. She has been a blessing to these children and their families, sharing the love of Jesus and building friendships for a lifetime. You are invited to help us celebrate Ellen at an Open House to be held Saturday, May 13, 20923 from 2-4 pm, in the Youth House.
Cards and messages of love may be sent to her at:
Ellen Grimm
C/O St. James Lutheran Church
8945 Stebbins St.
Montague, MI 49437
Feel free to share your Preschool memories! We hope to see you there!
St. James Lutheran Board of Christian Education
His Arms Mission Ministry
Did you know it's 7,742 miles from Montague to Maseno, Kenya? Sarah Justian will be traveling with the His Arms Children's Project team in June where they will be hosting a medical clinic and building a playground! Please consider supporting this mission by donating $1 per mile with money raised going for travel expenses and our special project. As always, His Arms appreciates your generous support!Coming Soon... His Arms Yard Sale
Sale is April 13th - 15th. Drop donated items beginning Monday, 4/10!Thrivent Members
Don't forget to direct Choice Dollars by March 31, 2023It's CHOICE DOLLARS time again! Eligible Thrivent members who have 2022 Choice Dollars have until the end of March 2023 to direct them. Through the Thrivent Choice charitable grant program, you can contribute to organizations and causes you care about, including helping to support your church. Don't let your 2022 Choice Dollars expire!
You can direct them by going online to Thrivent.com/thriventchoice and click on Direct Choice Dollars OR by calling the Thrivent home office at 800-847-4836 and say "Thrivent Choice" after the prompt. Press 1 and a representative will work with you.
Your Whitehall Financial Advisors, Marci Bentz and Tony De Nicolo can be reached to assist with questions by calling 231-894-8886, texting 231-760-8246, or email whitehalloffice@thrivent.com
Lutherans For Life News
We will be joining St John's, Grand Haven again to pray outside the Grand Rapids abortion center on Tuesday, March 28th from 11 AM - 12 noon during the 40 Days for Life campaign. They are meeting in their church parking lot for prayer at 9:45 AM. We will car pool and meet in our parking lot at 9:30 AM and car pool. Plan on lunch afterwards. Please sign up.- Recommended parking is in the Grand Rapids Public Library parking lot. The address is 181 Library Street NE and it is on the corner of Library Street and Ransom Avenue. From there it is only 2 blocks to the abortion facility. The parking rates are less expensive than other areas, too.
- There aren't really any public restrooms in downtown Grand Rapids, but if you park in the library lot, you can use the library restrooms, which are very nice.
- We have yard signs for sale for $15 each (cash only). They are double-sided and made of corrugated plastic. We also have cardboard signs (smaller) that we give away for free. One per group.
Thank you for praying to end abortion!
Life Moments from Lutherans For Life and KFUO Radio
Lutherans For Life has partnered with historic LCMS broadcast service Worldwide KFUO Radio. LFL's Executive Director of Mission and Ministry, Pastor Michael Salemink, serves as the voice of KFUO's daily Morning Prayer and Evening Prayer segments, based on the outstanding Treasury of Daily Prayer, leading listeners in Scripture readings and liturgical responses.And, in addition to publicizing periodic LFL events, KFUO promotes the Gospel-motivated voice of Lutherans For Life in the weekly short-form program LifeMoments, bringing our Life Thoughts in the Church Year lectionary reflections to the airwaves LifeMoments listens to each week's appointed lectionary readings with life ears and applies God's Word to life hurts. Thanks be to God for a delightful fellowship!
Online Service Directions!
How to watch our services online step by step: on Facebook Live on Sundays at 8:15 am- In the top search bar... Go to https://www.facebook.com/stjamesmontague/videos
(You do not need to have a Facebook account page to access this) - Close the popup box asking to login to your Facebook account.
- Scroll down through the Facebook page until you come across the most recent videos
- Click on the Live video of the church service.
- Explore the rest of the Facebook page and watch other videos. 😊
| March Birthdays | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| 03/01 | Roger Silk | 03/16 | Molly Mulder |
| 03/01 | Sarah Bernhardt | 03/17 | Andrew Best |
| 03/03 | Gary Kittridge | 03/19 | Dan Hardy |
| 03/04 | Dawn Hammersley | 03/19 | Garrett Birkhofer |
| 03/05 | Sandi Morningstar | 03/19 | Jillian Goodrich |
| 03/09 | David Grover | 03/23 | Catelynn Cooper |
| 03/09 | Vern Lietz | 03/23 | Daniel Abrahamson |
| 03/10 | Cindy Seberry | 03/23 | Susie Albrechtsen |
| 03/10 | Lauren Wackernagel | 03/24 | Rosemary Estes |
| 03/10 | Reese Tryska | 03/25 | Arde Ramthun |
| 03/11 | Gary Mason | 03/25 | Brad Nordlund |
| 03/11 | Terri Zeller | 03/26 | AJ Jensen |
| 03/12 | Chelsey Zeller | 03/26 | Pat Smith |
| 03/12 | Kay Glover | 03/28 | Christian Mason |
| 03/12 | Roger Simon | 03/28 | Rebecca Campbell |
| 03/14 | Nancy Bernhardt Jr. | 03/29 | Angie Lindstrom |
| 03/15 | Rich LaFrance | 03/30 | Sheri Canniff |
| 03/15 | Shelley Hanson | 03/31 | George McLaughlin |
| 03/16 | Carson Johnston | ||
| SERVING IN MARCH | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| 8:15 | 10:45 | ||
| ELDERS | Greg Neubauer | Jeff Boulet | |
| TRUSTEES | Allen Ramthun | Ruschel Friday | |
| ACOLYTES | Grace Hasenbank | ||
| USHERS | Leif Oquist | Bob Meacham | |
| Dylan Hopma | Merle Bernhardt Jr. | ||
| Frank Morningstar | Jeff Boulet | ||
| James Morningstar | Jarrod Moore | ||
| ALTAR CARE | Eileen Schroeder & Sue Miller | ||
| PRAYER PARTNERS | 5th | Alan Mayville | Sam Bender |
| 12th | Louie Mayville | Todd Tryska | |
| 19th | George McLaughlin | Steve Urban | |
| 26th | Jay Mulder | Steven Mills | |
| GREETERS | 5th | M/M Kevin Buchberger | Diane Babcock |
| 12th | Lisa Siedenstrang | Judy Best | |
| 19th | Marsha Ramey | Gloria Bernhardt | |
| 26th | Leah Stevens | M/M Brian Bentz | |
| MULTI-MEDIA | 1st | Alicia Koski (Lenten Service ~ 7:30 pm) | |
| 5th | Alicia Koski | Eric Lindstrom | |
| 8th | April Lipka (Lenten Service ~ 7:30 pm) | ||
| 12th | April Lipka | Jill Squire | |
| 15th | Eric Lindstrom (Lenten Service ~ 7:30 pm) | ||
| 19th | Eric Lindstrom | Friday Family | |
| 22nd | Jeri Wonders (Lenten Service ~ 7:30 pm) | ||
| 26th | Jeri Wonders | Lizbeth Bentz | |
| COFFEE HOUR | 5th | Kelli Rachow & Girls | |
| 12th | April Lipka & Alicia Koski | ||
| 19th | Faith & Amber Mayville | ||
| 26th | Amada & Katelynn Cooper | ||
| NURSERY | 5th | Kim DuBois | |
| 12th | Julie Trevino | ||
| 19th | Elizabeth Birkhofor | ||
| 26th | Lauren Mills | ||
| ALTER FLOWERS | 5th | Ron & Karen Barrs | |
| 12th | |||
| 19th | |||
| 26th | |||
Reminder
If you are unable to fulfill your assigned duty, please make arrangements with someone before or after you on the list. Thanks!Funeral Families
If we have a funeral, Faith Mayville, our Luncheon Coordinator will contact you for help. Each funeral luncheon requires table/chair set up, food donations, food servers (kitchen staff), and table/chair take down. Faith will let you know what is needed.Lenten Services
1st service servers cover all ODD Dates2nd service servers cover all EVEN Dates