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Thursday Announcements for January 14, 2021

1/21/2021

 
FATHER MARK’S ANNOUNCEMENTS
1) The good and great news is that we continue to see our local number of
cases declining, and we  are now just slightly above the 20 avg cases/day
threshold for reopening. We have to get below and stay below that number
for a few weeks in a row before it makes sense to reopen for public worship,
but things are definitely  trending in the right direction, and I am beginning to
be optimistic that we will be back together for part of Lent, Holy Week, and
Easter. What a glorious blessing that would be!! While we still couldn’t jam
the pews for Easter Morning, I could easily envision us adding a service to
two and accommodating everyone who wants to be present. Fingers crossed
and prayers ascending!!
 
2) Thanks to the Vestry for approving and the Foundation for funding and
Anderson-Shaw for installing our new back door to the kitchen! You will
notice it has a keypad entry. If you are part of a group that regularly uses the
kitchen or parish hall, Gina will get you the correct code for your group. If
you or anyone else reserves the parish hall for a one-time meeting or
celebration, we have single use codes for that. It’s really a slick system, and
— bonus — the door now opens easily and closes securely!
 
3) Annual Meeting by ZOOM — Sunday, January 31st at 11:30 A.M. Now is a
good time to get Zoom downloaded and installed so you are ready to go on
the 31st! Here is the link: https://zoom.us/download
 
4) Hang in there, dear friends! The vaccines are on the way they say, and if
we just keep wearing masks and keeping distance and washing hands, we will
​ be out of this thing in 2021!!! 

GINA’S ANNOUNCEMENTS
Happy Birthday!!                          Happy Anniversary
Jen Baird             January 22        Curt & Karen Mecklem     January 27
Victoria Schnell   January 25


Prayer Requests ** Now that I am back in the office 3 days a week, please
make sure your request is received by Wednesday of each week. You may
call (308) 632-4626 (leave a message), email 
stfrancis@allophone.com or mail to :
St. Francis Episcopal Church
P.O. Box 1201
Scottsbluff, NE 69361

**Forward Day by Day for February, March, April 2021**- Please let me know if you would like a copy set aside or mailed to you. We have received the regular print and the large print.
 
***Daily Devotion for Thursday January 14, 2021***
Called for a Purpose
The 5 Steps – Pause * Listen * Think * Pray * Go

Pause
Stop! Listen. Can you hear it?
God is calling you.
Probably not by words in your ear
or by writing in a letter
or by signs seen by your eyes –
Instead, God calls to you
through the rhythm of your life,
through the love of people who support you,
through the opportunities to share grace that surround you.
Stop! Listen.
God’s voice is calling you to love and serve!

Listen
Don’t trust in violence; don’t set false hopes in robbery. When wealth bears fruit, don’t
set your heart on it. God has spoken one thing— make it two things— that I myself have
heard: that strength belongs to God, and faithful love comes from you, my Lord— and
that you will repay everyone according to their deeds.
Psalm 62:10-12

Think
When you think about who or what you trust, what comes to mind? I imagine many of
us know how we would like to answer: we trust in hope, in laughter, in faith, in love, in
God. But these words from the psalmist not to trust in violence or wealth cut just a bit,
because if we’re honest with ourselves, these words are less a warning and more of a
mirror.
I’d like to say I don’t trust in violence, but how often have I spoken sharp words or held
bitterness in my heart? I want to say I don’t hold too tightly to the promises of wealth,
but how often do I value my own comfort and well-being over that of others?
I think the psalmist doesn’t want to shame us so much as redirect us. We have
brokenness, and learning to trust in God’s strength and faithful love is like a dance.
Every day, every moment, we have a chance to choose that trust. What would trusting
God’s love change for you?
Jessica Tidwell-Weinzierl

Pray
God of love, thank you for your faithfulness. You are always with me, even though I
often find myself trusting in things which ultimately cause more harm than good. Draw
my heart closer to yours, and help me to trust in your strength and love.
Amen.

Go
You are a child of God, deeply beloved, and you have great purpose in God’s kingdom.
Go, and do what is yours to do, in the love of Christ, our Redeemer! Amen.

***These daily devotionals are available at 
www.d365.org  
 
Gina’s Office Hours
 Tuesday 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. (In Office)
Wednesday  9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. (In Office)
Thursday  9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. (In Office)

Thursday Announcements for January 14, 2021

1/14/2021

 
FATHER MARK’S ANNOUNCEMENTS
 
1) The funeral service for our dear Ruth Masid will be this Saturday at 10:00
A.M. Seating in the church is limited to immediate family, but you can join us
online using the usual link on our website. Ruth was a longtime faithful member
of this parish, and although she hasn’t been able to attend in person for several
years, she will be deeply missed and never forgotten. I will always remember her
smiling face in the front pews.
 
2) Don’t forget to get those Annual Meeting reports in this week! We will put
them together with minutes and agenda and send the Annual Meeting packet
out by the 27th, along with a link to the Zoom meeting. If you need help figuring
out how to use Zoom to join a meeting, here is a link to a short YouTube video
The Annual Meeting is Sunday, January 31st at 11:30 A.M. If you don’t have
access to a computer to join that way, we have limited seating in the parish hall,
call Gina to sign up.

3) We have wrapped up our 2021 Pledge Campaign, and since this year was
so different we have a slightly different approach. If you sent in or emailed or
called with a 2021 pledge amount, we will use that number for our records. If
you haven’t contacted us but have been a giver in the past, we have used your
2020 pledge/giving amount as your 2021 pledge. This is really just so that we
can plan and make reasonable budget assumptions for this year. Please
remember that a pledge is not a contract and everybody’s life changes so
estimates of giving are just that – not set in stone – so feel free to adjust as the
year goes on. I will say more in a letter that is coming soon, but I do hope you
know how much I appreciate everything that you do and give and share that
​ keeps this ministry alive and growing. You really are amazing.
GINA’S ANNOUNCEMENTS
                                         Happy Birthday!!
       Lynn Okicki             January 17           Ben Shaver    January 17
       Saydee Peterson   January 17            Ben Sauer       January 20

Gina’s Schedule --  Starting Tuesday, January 19th, I will back to my
regular “In Office” hours - Tuesday 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
                                         Wednesday 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
                                         Thursday 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.


2020 Giving Statements – The Giving Statements for 2020 were emailed
out today and those who do not have an email address, I have printed the
statements and they have been mailed out 1/14/2021. If you have any
questions or concerns, please feel free to call me during my office hours
or send an email to 
stfrancis@allophone.com.
 
***Daily Devotion for Thursday January 14, 2020***
CALLED AND KNOWN
The 5 Steps – Pause * Listen * Think * Pray * Go
Pause
Take, o take me as I am.
Summon out what I shall be.
Set your seal upon my heart,
And live in me.
from "Take, O Take Me As I Am" by John L. Bell (1995)

Listen
Lord, you have examined me. You know me. You know when I sit down
and when I stand up. Even from far away, you comprehend my plans. You
study my traveling and resting. You are thoroughly familiar with all my
ways. There isn’t a word on my tongue, Lord, that you don’t already know
completely. You surround me—front and back. You put your hand on me.
That kind of knowledge is too much for me; it’s so high above me that I
can’t reach it.
Psalm 139:1-6

Think
Have you ever had a really special friend? This person might have been
able to complete every last word of your sentence. Sometimes our friends
may even know us better than we know ourselves, and they’re able to
speak into parts of us we didn’t even know existed. How does it feel to be
known and loved like that?
Regardless of how strong an earthly friendship might be, moments of
conflict may arise. As imperfect people, we may make an ill-timed joke,
feel snubbed in the school hallway or all together lonely and left out. The
best friendships leave room for apology and reconnection despite difficult
moments.
If all that could be true about a relationship with another imperfect person,
consider how much deeper that bond might be with the one who created
you. God knows you better than your best friend – good moments and bad
– and still loves you immensely. There’s no conflict there; simply an
invitation to accept God’s love and grace and an invitation to share those
with others.
Daniel Potter

Pray
Thank you, God, for being the perfect friend – one who knows me so
intimately, who understands me so well, who celebrates joys, and who
mourns my sorrows. Remind me today that there is no conflict in our
relationship, but simply an invitation. Give me the peace that comes from
being known by you and the strength to follow wherever you may lead.
Amen.

Go
The Creator of the Cosmos, the one who formed all that was or is or will
be, is the same God who breathed breath into you, the one who knit you
together, the one who knows you best, and the one who calls you.
Know this gift more deeply today, and share it as freely as you received it:
You are called and known.
 
***These daily devotionals are available at 
www.d365.org  
 
 
Gina’s Office Hours
Tuesday 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. (In Office)
Wednesday  9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. (In Office)
Thursday  9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. (In Office)



Thursday Announcements for January 7, 2021

1/7/2021

 
FATHER MARK’S ANNOUNCEMENTS
 
1) Mark your Calendars for our Zoom Annual Meeting Sunday, January 31st at
11:30 A.M. This being our first (and fingers crossed only) online annual
meeting, there will undoubtedly be hang-ups, glitches, and mistakes, but we
have to do what we can to get our parish business accomplished, even when
large gatherings are not possible, so this is what we have. I promise we will do
our level best to make it work in spite of the difficulties. Here are a couple of
accommodations:
  • Committees or Groups who submit reports will be asked to do so by the 15th so we can get them out to you along with the agenda and log-in information well in advance of the meeting. We will also include a primer on using Zoom. You can download the (FREE) Zoom application for either PC or Mac.
  • Voting on new Vestry Members and Wardens and resolutions will occur through Zoom.
  • If you don’t have access to a computer and want to attend and vote, we will have limited space available in the parish hall for about 30 folks. You can sign-up to reserve a seat by calling the office. However, we are asking that only those who can’t access online use this option.
 
2) The online coffee breaks using Zoom will cut back to one online coffee break
session per week on Tuesdays at 9:15 A.M. We will end about 9:45. There’s no
agenda. It’s just a chance to say “Hi” to parish friends and chat about whatever
comes up.
 
3) Thanks to Steve Trickler for this update on local vaccine availability: “To sign
up for COVID-19 vaccine shots, adults 75 and older should call the message
line 308 262 5764 and leave their name, date of birth, county of residence, and
phone number. They will be contacted several weeks later with the particulars.”

GINA’S ANNOUNCEMENTS
                                     Happy Birthday!!
                         William Schnell                January 7
                         Jane Wisniewski              January 7
                         Quinn Mackrill                 January 11
                         Barbara Martinson          January 11
                         Catherine Wisniewski     January 12

 
Prayer Requests: Due to my working from home two days a week (for
now), please send me your prayer requests by Wednesday each
week to ensure they are in the next Sunday’s Bulletin.

 
***Daily Devotion for Thursday January 7, 2020***
CHRISTMAS LIGHT
The 5 Steps – Pause * Listen * Think * Pray * Go
Pause
Once the decorations come down, where do you notice the Christmas
lights still shining?
Today, take a few moments to notice and remember the people, places,
and experiences where you are continuing to see Christmas light.

Listen
When they heard the king, they went; and look, the star they had seen in
the east went ahead of them until it stood over the place where the child
was. When they saw the star, they were filled with joy. They entered the
house and saw the child with Mary his mother. Falling to their knees, they
honored him. Then they opened their treasure chests and presented him
with gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Because they were warned in a
dream not to return to Herod, they went back to their own country by
another route.
Matthew 2:9-12

Think
Gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Gold is as relevant today as it was in the
time of Jesus. A valuable item exchanged for goods or services.
Frankincense and myrrh do not hold the same value to us, though. In
ancient times, frankincense helped make temples smell like special
places. Myrrh was an ingredient in oil that priests used to bless people.
They also had other uses, like in medicine.
They were so valuable that they were gifts given to kings and rulers.
Often, they were given out of fear instead of generosity. The ancient world
was full of rivalries and wars between this king and that ruler. That is why
the wise men bringing Jesus these gifts is so interesting. They see the
light of the star in the sky and are filled with joy. The real gift is not the
items themselves but the joy with which they are given. These gifts of joy
announce a new kind of ruler is in the world — a Prince of Peace.
Patrick Kangrga

Pray
God, help me know that the greatest gift you gave was Jesus, the Prince
of Peace. Help me share the gift of joy and peace and love and light
wherever I go. Amen.

Go
Is the Christmas light still shining bright in you?
Take that light out into the world.
Live brightly so that others may take notice and be reminded of God's love
and light.

 
***For those of you that would like to access these devotionals daily, you
can go on this website:
 www.d365.org  
 
Gina’s Office Hours
Tuesday 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. (Work from Home)
Wednesday  9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. (Work from Home)
Thursday  9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. (at the Office)

Thursday Announcements for December 31, 2020

12/31/2020

 
FATHER MARK’S ANNOUNCEMENTS
 
1) So…I guess we made it? I started that to write that sentence like a really
great announcement, like “YAY! WE MADE IT!!” but that just didn’t feel like the
right tone as we limp to the end of 2020. In so many ways this year has felt like
a marathon. That is, if you were forced to run a marathon without ever getting in
shape. Or without water. Or snacks. Or shoes. I’m glad it’s over, and I’m glad
we really did make it, but honestly I’m a little tired and a little scarred by the
whole experience.  Anyway, it’s New Year’s Eve, and I do wish everyone the
best, most joyous, most fun celebration possible under these  circumstances.
Whatever beverage you choose, raise a glass to 2021! I have a feeling it’s
going to be an amazing year! Have a great night, be safe, and remember that
you are now, and you are always, a beloved child of God.
 
2) Not to jinx it, but our local COVID-19 cases have been declining the past few
weeks, so fingers crossed we don’t see a big uptick this week or next. If we
continue this trend I could see us being able to gather again in the not-too
-distant future. As of yesterday our 7-day moving average of new cases in
Scotts Bluff county was 31. A month ago it was 50. The diocesan re-opening
threshold is still 20. So continue wearing those masks and keeping your
distance and for goodness sake get the vaccine when it is available to you.
These are the keys to regathering in church and reclaiming our lives.
 
3) This is as good a way to end the year as any. This morning I saw a 3 minute
video of robots dancing to an old song from the ‘60’s called “Do You Love Me.”
It really is quite extraordinary, but like many have already said online, I can’t
decide if I am delighted by it or terrified. Watch for yourself here if you need a
​ laugh today. https://youtu.be/fn3KWM1kuAw

And now, we end this year with the wonderful writings of Rae Whitney:
 
2020-2021
 
Old Year, no longer with us,
we’re glad to see you gone,
you’ve left with us your virus
where it does not belong..
It’s caused a world-wide lock-down,
of businesses and schools,
with everybody asked to
abide by special rules.
 
Now thanks to health providers
and world-wide scientists,
we have exciting vaccines,---
we hope  we’re on the lists!
When we are vaccinated,
we’ll halt the Covid spread,
and life will be more normal,-
disease no longer spread.
 
Goodbye to Twenty-Twenty,
and welcome Twenty-One!
Old Year, depart in darkness; 
and New Year, bring the sun!
We’ve learned so many lessons,
while “sheltering in place”;
let’s not forget new wisdom,
then spread God’s gift of grace. 
 
(Rae E Whitney Dec 31, 2020)
(This text may be sung to the tune of “The Church’s One Foundation”)
GINA’S ANNOUNCEMENTS
 Happy Birthday!!                             Happy Anniversary!!
Brad Bode             December 31            Mark & Jill Selvey       December 31
Max Meyer            December 31
Erica Croft             December 31
Marcaria Lamont   January 2
Monica Lehr          January 6
William Schnell      January 7
Jane Wisniewski    January 7

 
Prayer Requests: Due to my working from home two days a week (for
now), please send me your prayer requests by Wednesday each
​week to ensure they are in the next Sunday’s Bulletin.

 
***Daily Devotion for Thursday December 31, 2020***
CHRISTMAS PRAISE
The 5 Steps – Pause * Listen * Think * Pray * Go
Pause
Breathe in this good news of great joy! Take a deep breath.
For you….yes, YOU, Jesus was born. A savior, who is the Messiah, the
Lord.
The light shines in the darkness and the darkness does not overcome it.
Keep breathing, in praise to our God who makes all things new this
Christmas season.

Listen
There was also a prophet, Anna the daughter of Phanuel, who belonged
to the tribe of Asher. She was very old. After she married, she lived with
her husband for seven years. She was now an 84-year-old widow. She
never left the temple area but worshipped God with fasting and prayer
night and day. She approached at that very moment and began to praise
God and to speak about Jesus to everyone who was looking forward to
the redemption of Jerusalem.
Luke 2:36-38

Think
Anna was a woman of purpose. She never left the temple after her
husband died until she witnessed Simeon blessing the infant Jesus. In that
moment, Anna went out with a single intention to tell everyone about this
baby and the promise of redemption.
We’ve been in a holding pattern like Anna, and it may have felt like you
haven’t left your home all year. I’m not sure we are ready to leave our
metaphorical temple, but we need to think about our daily intention as we
step into a new year.
A daily intention helps us choose how we INTEND to live instead of
WISHING life would be different. Some people choose one word to guide
them throughout this year. You may choose your core values that help you
be your very best self. However you do it, begin this day with deep, faithful
intentionality.
Take a few minutes before your feet hit the floor every day to reflect on
your daily intention. Let’s follow Jesus into 2021. One step at a time.
Michelle Thomas-Bush

Pray
With a deep breath, hard work, and your help, God, I release my petty
grudges, unnecessary judgements, and outright grumpiness. May I be my
best self, the person I was created to be.
With a deep breath, more hard work, and the peace of Christ, empower
me to live into 2021 with intentionality and faithfulness. May I find
contentment without complacency.
With a deep breath and the Holy Spirit, let’s move into this new year with
joy and grace.
Amen.

Go
Take a deep breath and be present every moment of every day of 2021.
Love with intention. Be the Church.
Practice radical hospitality. Celebrate others.
May the grace of God fill your days so that you cannot help but respond to
all of life with exuberant joy!

 
***For those of you that would like to access these devotionals daily, you
​ can go on this website:
 www.d365.org  
 
Gina’s Office Hours
Tuesday 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. (Work from Home)
Wednesday  9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. (Work from Home)
Thursday  9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. (at the Office)

Thursday Announcements for December 24, 2020

12/24/2020

 
FATHER MARK’S ANNOUNCEMENTS
 
1) Without a doubt, this is the strangest Christmas Eve I have ever experienced. Only one of our children home for the holiday, no gathering with friends, no snow, winds whipping all night long, and -- most strange of all – no celebration with you at the church with the music, the liturgy, and the communion that we so deeply cherish. I miss you all terribly, and I know you miss the church so much and especially on this night. While I know we’re not out of the woods yet, I do believe we will get through this and there will be a day soon when we are able to gather safely and celebrate the great gift of Emmanuel.
 
But tonight, everything is livestreamed.
 
The easiest way to access our service is from our website www.saintf.org.
 
We begin at 5:00 P.M. with a family Carol Sing. The idea is to gather with everyone in your household and enjoy some hot chocolate and peppermint and lots of fun singing together. All of the songs and hymns are beloved and familiar, and some are especially for the kids. Scott and Alyssa and Barb have put a great half-hour of fun together for us.
 
Immediately following, at 5:30 P.M. we will begin our Christmas Eve Worship. The bulletin and service can be accessed through our website. It’s a typical Christmas Eve service in some ways (children’s sermon, candle-lit Silent Night) and unusual in others (empty church, no gift bags or kids to give them to). But it is the best we have to offer this year. I do hope you will join us and that can be meaningful for you. As we have already pre-recorded it, there will not be drive-through communion following this service. There will be drive-through communion this Sunday, Dec 27th, however.
 
2) The office will be closed next week. Also no Tuesday or Thursday Coffee Zoom or Zoom Bible Study.
 
Merry Christmas to you, beloved members of St. Francis Episcopal Church!! May God’s Son and God’s Spirit bring you great Joy, Peace, and Blessings this day!
GINA’S ANNOUNCEMENTS
 
 Happy Birthday!!                          Happy Anniversary!!
 Jamie Selzer   December 28          Brian & Mandi Sauer      December 28
 Sierra Sauer   December 30           Bob & Barb Manasek     December 29

​
***DON’T FORGET TO EMAIL OR CALL ME WITH YOUR PRAYER REQUESTS BY WEDNESDAY , DECEMBER 30th***

***Daily Devotion for Thursday December 17, 2020***
LOVE
The 5 Steps – Pause * Listen * Think * Pray * Go

Pause

Being known.
Being valued.
Belonging.
These are gifts of God’s Love.
We receive them in Christ.


Listen
In those days Caesar Augustus declared that everyone throughout the empire should be enrolled in the tax lists. This first enrollment occurred when Quirinius governed Syria. Everyone went to their own cities to be enrolled. Since Joseph belonged to David’s house and family line, he went up from the city of Nazareth in Galilee to David’s city, called Bethlehem, in Judea. He went to be enrolled together with Mary, who was promised to him in marriage and who was pregnant. While they were there, the time came for Mary to have her baby. She gave birth to her firstborn child, a son, wrapped him snugly, and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the guestroom.
Luke 2:1-7


Think
"There was no place for them in the guestroom." Have you been disappointed by not fitting in somewhere? Have you ever felt that you are missing a place to belong? Perhaps you have never experienced belonging somewhere.
Today’s scripture brings us guidance on what we can expect when we feel that we don’t have a place where we belong. In Christ we belong to David’s house and family line, which is the promise given from God to us. This makes us kin to Christ. We have a place where we belong, and it is with Christ. This is the beauty of Christmas – Jesus came to be among humankind, so that we all may be gathered together in Christ, so that we all may have a place at the table, so that we all may call God our home.
What are you worried about? Do you want to experience the feeling of belonging to God? Whatever it might be, know that you are from God.
Israel Loachamin


Pray
Lord, thank you for giving me a place to belong. May I give you my worries of not feeling welcome in a place where I belong, and may I feel at peace knowing that I belong to God. Amen.

Go
Where shepherds lately knelt, and kept the angel’s word,
I come in half belief, a pilgrim strangely stirred;
But there is room and welcome there for me,
but there is room and welcome there for me.
Can I, will I forget how Love was born and burned
its way into my heart unasked, unforced, unearned,
to die, to live, and not alone for me,
to die, to live, and not alone for me?
from “Where Shepherds Lately Knelt” by Jaroslav J. Vajda (1986)


***For those of you that would like to access these devotionals daily, you can go on this website: www.d365.org  

 
Gina’s Office Hours
Tuesday 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. (Work from home)
Wednesday 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. (Work from home)
Thursday 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. (In Office)

Thursday Announcements for December 17, 2020

12/17/2020

 
​FATHER MARK’S ANNOUNCEMENTS
 
1) Thanks to everyone who made our Advent Lessons and Carols possible last week! All-in-all it took about 15 readers, singers, and technicians to make it happen, and it was super fun, and we hope enjoyable for those who watched online. If you missed it, or if you watched it and want more, The Episcopal Diocese of Nebraska has joined forces with the University of Nebraska at Omaha and Opera Omaha to present A Heartland Lessons and Carols,which may be viewed on:
  • The Knowledge Network (Cox 18 and CenturyLink Prism 69) on December 20 at 6:00 PM, December 24 at 7:00 PM, and December 25 at 2:00 PM. 
  • KVNO will air an audio version on December 25 at 2:00 PM. 
  • It can also be seen on Vimeo from December 20 to December 27. Search A Heartland Lessons and Carols.
 
2) Next Monday December 21st at 7:00 P.M. we will participate in a Zoom Blue Christmas Service, which you can join with this Zoom link:Meeting ID: 429 691 4665 Passcode: 69361. Pastor Craig writes this about the Blue Christmas service: “A service for those for whom Christmas is not joyful; for those who are confronted with the loss of loved ones, feeling isolated and alone, perhaps even feeling depressed.  On this longest night of the year, we remember and place our hope in Christ. All are welcome to attend.” Livestreamed on our church’s websites and https://www.facebook.com/methodistchurch.scottsbluff/videos/
A combined service with the following churches: First Presbyterian, St. Francis Episcopal, Calvary Lutheran, Holy Apostles’ Episcopal, First Christian Henry/Lyman, Mitchell, Morrill & Scottsbluff United Methodist Churches
 ID: 429 691 4665    Passcode: 69361
3) Speaking of Zoom meetings, our Parish Annual Meeting this year will be held virtually using Zoom. We will send the sign-in information later, but for now, please put the date and time on your calendar – Sunday, January 31st 2021 at 11:30 A.M. Unfortunately, this year we can’t do our usual amazing world-famous potluck brunch, but we will still gather and do the annual administrative business of the parish, and find a couple of ways to celebrate virtually at the same time.
 
4) We are working on the problem some are experiencing with our Facebook livestreamed service, and think we have a fix. Scott has created a way to view it on YouTube using a link on our website homepage. Just before the service begins, you can lick the video link labeled “St Francis Stream Screen” and it should take you to the YouTube streaming version. You can go to www.saintf.org to see what I am describing.
GINA’S ANNOUNCEMENTS

Happy Birthday!!                          Happy Anniversary!!     
Steve Trickler     December 17           Mary Kay Versen & Lynn Okicki 
Brian Sauer        December 22           December 21
Sara Moreno      December 23
 

The Christmas Star
I am sure some of you have heard about the Christmas Star. Here is the information I have found on it:
As I have learned, this is actually the conjunction of Jupiter and Saturn. The closer they get to each other the more of a star there appears to be, and this happens about every 20 years. However, this year they will be really close, thus the star.
The last time this was visible without a telescope was on March 4, 1226. Our best chance of seeing this phenomenon is on December 21 in the southwestern sky, and low to the horizon and about 45 minutes post sunset.
It will be visible for the whole week, but this is the best time for us to see it.
 
To find the “Christmas Star,” look into the night sky around 6:15 p.m., and you will notice a bright, white star low on the southwest horizon. The brightest star will be Jupiter; to the slight upper left of it will be Saturn.

***Daily Devotion for Thursday December 17, 2020***

JOY
The 5 Steps – Pause * Listen * Think * Pray * Go
Pause
This Advent,
Let us remember: The Lord will continue to do great things for us.
Let us testify to the Light that is God.
Let us hold on to what is good, even when nothing around us makes any sense.
Let us cultivate joy.

Listen
They asked him, “Then who are you? Are you Elijah?”
John said, “I’m not.”
“Are you the prophet?”
John answered, “No.”
They asked, “Who are you? We need to give an answer to those who sent us. What do you say about yourself?”
John replied,
“I am a voice crying out in the wilderness, Make the Lord’s path straight, just as the prophet Isaiah said.”
Those sent by the Pharisees asked, “Why do you baptize if you aren’t the Christ, nor Elijah, nor the prophet?”
John answered, “I baptize with water. Someone greater stands among you, whom you don’t recognize. He comes after me, but I’m not worthy to untie his sandal straps.” This encounter took place across the Jordan in Bethany where John was baptizing.
John 1:21-28

Think
“I’m not worthy to untie his sandal straps...” What a statement! A bold way for us to perhaps even describe our own relationship with God.
The message that we are not worthy seems to prevail today. Society – and sometimes even those close to us – tell us that we are not worthy. If they don’t say it with words, then with actions. And we often believe this…
But let us remember that we are worthy of God’s joy. God sent Jesus to walk among those who felt unworthy to deliver them, to restore them. You are beloved, you are a child of God.
Luz Cabrera Montes

Pray
Lord, hear my crying! Give me strength to care for myself as I seek to care for others. Guide my words and make them match my actions. Amen.
Go
Choose joy, share joy, and make it a discipline.

***For those of you that would like to access these devotionals daily, you can go on this website: www.d365.org  

***DON’T FORGET TO EMAIL OR CALL ME WITH YOUR PRAYER REQUESTS BY WEDNESDAY , DECEMBER 23rd***
 
Gina’s Office Hours
Tuesday 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. (work from home)
Wednesday  9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. (work from home)
Thursday  9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. (In Office) 

Thursday Announcements for December 10, 2020

12/10/2020

 
​FATHER MARK’S ANNOUNCEMENTS​
1) We had a simply amazing response to our request for donations to our 2020 Christmas Family Fund, where we raised just over $2,000, which will help many local families celebrate this year. I have already distributed two of the checks, and I know this – your generosity makes a real and tangible difference in real lives. I mean it when I say “Thank you.”
 
2) Don’t miss our livestreamed Advent Lessons and Carols this Sunday at 5:30 P.M. It will be streamed on Facebook Live in the same way as our regular Sunday worship service, and there will be a link up on the website to use to watch live and download the bulletin with the readings (done by some familiar faces you maybe haven’t seen in a while) and some special music. Tune in, and join in and enjoy this classic Episcopal service.
 
3) We will continue to offer Drive-Up Communion every Sunday for the foreseeable future. This has been a really popular addition, and it is so great to see and connect with folks, even for just a moment, and to share actual communion. Just drive through the back parking lot immediately following the 10:00 A.M. service.
 
4) This week the Bishop sent a pastoral letter to all the churches, encouraging us to just keep the faith during this continuing time of disruption. A copy is attached. He is a pretty great Bishop, I can tell you.
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GINA’S ANNOUNCEMENTS

                                               Happy Birthday!!
Richard Schaneman   December 11      Theodore Meyer      December 12
Lori Peterson              December 11      Rick Gable               December 15
Len Tabor                   December 12      Don Kepler               December 15
​
                                          Happy Anniversary!!
                  Amy & Michelle Anderson-Saenz      December 12
 
Memorial Poinsettia Donations: with the Christmas Season upon us, we will have a sign up for donations to purchase Memorial Poinsettia’s. If you would like to have the Poinsettia donated in the memory of a loved one, please email Gina at stfrancis@allophone.com or call the church and leave a message. The names will be added to the Christmas Eve Bulletin.
 
***Daily Devotion for Thursday December 3, 2020***
PEACE
The 5 Steps – Pause * Listen * Think * Pray * Go

Pause
Take a few deep breaths.
As you inhale, breathe in God’s peace for you.
As you exhale, breathe out all that keeps you from being at peace.

Listen
John the Baptist was in the wilderness calling for people to be baptized to show that they were changing their hearts and lives and wanted God to forgive their sins. Everyone in Judea and all the people of Jerusalem went out to the Jordan River and were being baptized by John as they confessed their sins.
Mark 1:4-5

Think
In many traditions, you’re only baptized once, but that doesn’t mean that the significance of your baptism is limited to one day. Instead, baptism has lifelong consequences as it is a sign of God’s everlasting covenant with us and signifies the beginning of new life in Christ.
Mark tells us that many people throughout Judea responded to John’s invitation for baptism. Not only did they seek God’s forgiveness for their sins in the baptismal waters, but they wanted to show that they were changing their hearts and lives to reflect their faith in God. Notice that they were in the process of changing their hearts and lives when they were baptized. Living lives that reflected faith in God wasn’t just a one-time, single-day activity, but a daily practice and a process.
Each day we can choose to change our hearts and lives to reflect our faith in God and to live into God’s covenant with us. What do you need to change so that you can fully respond to God’s call on your life?
Rosy Robson

Pray
Promising God, thank you for your everlasting covenant to be my God. Forgive me of my sins. Help me to choose today to change my heart and my life to reflect my faith in you. Amen.
Go
Go now to a responsible involvement in the world.
Be at peace,
for God who created you,
Christ who redeems you,
and the Spirit who sustains you
go with you today and every day.

 
 ***For those of you that would like to access these devotionals daily, you can go on this website: www.d365.org  

***DON’T FORGET TO EMAIL OR CALL ME WITH YOUR PRAYER REQUESTS BY WEDNESDAY , DECEMBER 16TH***
 
Gina’s Office Hours
Tuesday 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. (Work from home)
Wednesday 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. (Work from home)
Thursday 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. (In Office)

Thursday's Announcements,December 3, 2020

12/10/2020

 
FATHER MARK’S ANNOUNCEMENTS
 
1) I’m getting a fair amount of positive feedback and compliments lately that I simply don’t deserve, and I want to set the record straight on who actually does deserve credit for some of this stuff: (And by the way, if you get a sense reading this that the success of this this parish is less dependent on the Rector and more dependent on the assisting clergy and engaged laity, you would be 100% correct in that J)
 
  • Drive-In Movie Night (last night – super great movie and people loved it): This was the brainchild of Charlie Kennedy. Literally all I did was make sure the check got cut.
  • Stewardship Letters/Pledge Campaign: Credit goes to Mary Kay Versen and Mo. Karen Anderson, who had a vision for something simple and creative and pulled it off wonderfully. Assist to Gina for getting the mailings put together and out the door.
  • Online Services: Honestly, without Scott Harvey putting all the technology together we would never have been able to pull this off. And of course we equally indebted to Alyssa Harvey and Barb Becker for making the musical part of the service so wonderful, and to our many lectors/intercessors who faithfully lead us each week in readings and prayers.
  • Zoom Coffee with Clergy  (9:15 A.M. Tues & Thurs): I didn’t think of this and can’t even remember who did – someone on the Vestry for sure – but it is a fun way to connect for a few minutes with you during the week.
  • Beauty in the Sanctuary: This is Barb and Fr. Bob Manasek, Collette and Greg Suhr, Nancy Kepler, and if there are others I apologize but these are the folks I remember seeing. It does look beautiful, and it was a lot of work, and we are all thankful for all of it.
  • Sanctuary Seating Sign-Ups: Again, I’m not sure exactly who did come up with this, but it wasn’t me. I only did the actual scheduling part. Brilliant idea whoever did suggest it!
  • Advent Candle Lighting Pre-Taping: Totally not possible without the folks/families who volunteered and showed up to pre-tape. Also, Scott is the one who will pull it all together into a connected streaming video.
  • Drive-Through Communion: Mother Karen gets all the credit for the idea, and she and Father Bob have done the actual work of distributing. All I did was buy the plastic cups. 
  • Advent Lessons and Carols: OK, I didn’t think of this – it’s a traditional Episcopal Service – but it was my idea to do it using pre-taped readings and music. Still, you know how far it would have gotten without the 20 or so folks both on-screen and behind the scenes, including some voices from as far away as Trinity Cathedral in Omaha.
  • And finally, you should know that so much of what happens here would never be possible without the direct influence, support, commitment and just plain work of one Cory Foster, your Senior Warden. I am blessed to have him as Warden and count him as friend, and this parish is so blessed by the many ways he leads us.
 
2) If you are reading “Low – An Honest Advent Devotional,” don’t forget that we will meet online ZOOM at 2:00 P.M. this Sunday. You should already have received an invitation to that meeting. If not, please email me and I’ll resend the link.
GINA’S ANNOUNCEMENTS
Happy Birthday!!                             Happy Anniversary!!
Jana Bode           December 4          Trudy & Mardell Schnell   December 6
Beth McKibbin     December 4
Chesney Joplin    December 8

 
Memorial Poinsettia Donations: with the Christmas Season upon us, we will have a sign up for donations to purchase Memorial Poinsettia’s. If you would like to have the Poinsettia donated in the memory of a loved one, please email Gina at stfrancis@allophone.com or call the church and leave a message. The names will be added to the Christmas Eve Bulletin.
 

Prayer Requests: The prayer request sheet is still just outside the office in the church and is updated weekly. Anyone may still email your prayer requests to me at stfrancis@allophone.com. If you do not have email, just call the church and leave a message. Since, I am back in the office, the requests must be received on by Wednesday at the latest, for them to be included in the Sunday Bulletin for that week. If the request is received after Wednesday, they will be added to the next Sunday Bulletin. We will follow the same process and keep the names on for two weeks. Once the prayer request is received, it is added to the prayer list and then I email the names to have them added to the Prayer Chain and to the Daughters of the King.
 
***Daily Devotion for Thursday December 3, 2020***
HOPE 
The 5 Steps
 – Pause * Listen * Think * Pray * Go

Pause

It is Advent. The Lord is coming. This is our hope.
With every breath you take — Wait. With every breath you take — Listen.
Wait and Listen. Hear the coming of the Lord.

Listen
“Learn this parable from the fig tree. After its branch becomes tender and it sprouts new leaves, you know that summer is near. In the same way, when you see these things happening, you know that he’s near, at the door. I assure you that this generation won’t pass away until all these things happen. Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will certainly not pass away.”
Mark 13:28-31


Think
The season of Advent is one of my favorite times of the year. Christmas carols are sung, ugly sweaters are worn, and shopping increases as we try to find that perfect gift for our family and friends. It truly is one of the most wonderful times of the year.
With all of the busyness, it is easy to forget that Advent is about waiting.
It is a time to wait in expectation for the coming of the Christ child. We sometimes need a reminder to see through the busyness and to set our eyes on Jesus. The one who is observant will notice the signs that point to Jesus as the reason for the season.
Throughout Advent, let us take some time to observe. Let us observe our need for hope, peace, joy, and love. These, like the branches of a fig tree, are the signs that point us to the good news of the coming of Christ our Lord.
Emmitt Drumgoole


Pray
Lord, give me eyes to see and ears to hear the coming of good news for all. Amen.

Go
It is Advent. The Lord is coming.
Go! Make ready for the Lord!


***For those of you that would like to access these devotionals daily, you can go on this website: www.d365.org  

 
Gina’s Office Hours
Tuesday 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Wednesday  9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Thursday  9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. 

Advent Schedule November 23, 2020

11/24/2020

 
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Calendar of Events Advent & Christmas
SO much happening in the next few weeks! Here's a schedule to keep it all straight :)

Sunday, November 29th
  • 10:00 A.M. Livestream Worship (link and bulletin at www.saintf.org)
  • 11:00 A.M. Drive-Up Communion (enter back lot from 1st Ave)
  • 1:00 - 4:00 P.M. Sanctuary Seating (reserve)
Wednesday December 2nd
  • 6:30 P.M. Drive-In Movie for the Parish at Skyview Pop-Up (SBFF Airport) FREE
Sunday, December 6th
  • 10:00 A.M. Livestream Worship 
  • 11:00 A.M. Drive-Up Communion
  • 1:00 - 4:00 P.M. Sanctuary Seating (reserve)
  • 2:00 P.M. Zoom Advent Book Study (click here to sign up)
Sunday, December 13th
  • 10:00 A.M. Livestream Worship 
  • 11:00 A.M. Drive-Up Communion
  • 1:00 - 4:00 P.M. Sanctuary Seating (reserve)
  • 2:00 P.M. Zoom Advent Book Study
  • 5:30 P.M. Livestreamed Advent Lessons and Carols
Sunday, December 20th
  • 10:00 A.M. Livestream Worship 
  • 11:00 A.M. Drive-Up Communion
  • 2:00 P.M. Zoom Advent Book Study
Thursday, December 24th CHRISTMAS EVE
  • 5:00 P.M. Join us on YouTube for a 30 min pre-taped YouTube Carol Sing featuring voices from our parish and Trinity Omaha. Meant to mimic our typical late service Carol Sing, only online and available to watch anytime and include all your favorites. Carol words/music will be mailed out ahead of time. You can watch at 5:00 or anytime following.
  • Christmas Eve Worship -- Single online service beginning at 5:30 P.M. Children's sermon, traditional music, something for everyone. Again, you can watch at 5:30 or anytime following.

WHEW! That's a lot to remember, so maybe save this email or print it out and post it, or you can always check our website Events Page. I do hope you are all making plans for a fun but safe Advent and Christmas. I know no one in our  family is travelling home for Thanksgiving, which is super sad but we think the best decision for us. Christmas may be the same. This will be a holiday season like no other. Let's do our best to make it meaningful and joyous despite the challenges, and do it together. 

Blessings,

Fr. Mark+

Extra News for Friday November 20, 2020

11/24/2020

 
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Special Friday Updates
Three more things that I want to share before the week is out. 

First -- I have chosen the book "Low -- An Honest Advent Devotional," by John Pavlovitz for our Advent Study this year. It's a small book and the daily readings are short enough for even the busiest schedule. You can purchase a copy online, or I have twenty copies that just arrived today, and which I will give to anyone who makes a donation in any amount to our Christmas Family Fund (see next point).

Second -- As mentioned above once again we are sponsoring two families from our community with donations for Christmas, and you can donate by check or online by text or card on our website. To do this, and to make sure it goes to the correct fund, from the home page find the "More" then "Give" then "Donate Now" links. Once there you can look at the "Fund" selector in the upper right, and make sure you have"2020 Christmas Families Fund" selected, and then make your donation, and we'll send your book right away. Next week I'll send the particulars about when and how we will meet online for what I think will be a really interesting Advent Study

Third -- I am delighted to announce that our Sanctuary Seating time slots filled up within an hour yesterday, so I have scheduled another day -- December 6th 1:00 - 4:00 P.M. and you should receive another email from us soon with a link to reserve a 20 min spot to come in and just sit, or read, or pray in the space you love so much. The Christmas decorations will be up and the Nativity scene will be set. If there is interest, a third day can be offered. 

OK -- Have a great weekend! See you online Sunday at 10!

Blessings,

Fr. Mark+
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St. Francis Episcopal Church
14 E 20th Street

Scottsbluff, NE 69361
​P.O. Box 1201


stfrancis@allophone.com

​(308) 632-4626

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9 a.m. in the Chapel


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