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Principal’s
Newsletter, Charles Strohacker, Principal
CHRIST
LUTHERAN SCHOOL
4333 CLEVELAND AVENUE
STEVENSVILLE, MI 49127
January 18, 2011
Debate
In the wake of the recent and tragic shootings in Tucson, some national debates sprang up which is not unusual – gun control, mental health care, our nation’s heated political discourse, etc.
Like you, I’ve got my own opinions on many topics, and I believe in a democratic society like ours a civil exchange of such ideas is healthy and even guaranteed by our constitution. But we’re never going to all agree. And, please forgive me, but none of our ideas are going to solve problems like what happened in Tucson - at least not this side of heaven.
The reason? Well, because we are ‘this side of heaven.’ We live in a sinful world and while we certainly try to make it better, it will always remain far from perfect. Satan will continue to ‘stir the pot’ of trouble among people, causing nations to war against one another and individuals to harm their fellow man. Sadly, such acts can sometimes even occur among God’s own people for we, also, are sinners.
Last Wednesday, our students observed a moment of silence along with the rest of the nation. We continue to hold all those suffering from this tragedy in our prayers.
No place, even Lutheran schools, is completely immune from the type of things that can happen in our world, however, our schools are a place where students learn that this is not God’s will for His children. They are taught to treat one another, and our differences, with respect. And, when we fail, which we often do, they are taught to ask as well as grant forgiveness, just as God our Father, through Christ Jesus, has forgiven us.
RESA PLAYGROUP
The Berrien RESA Parents As Teachers Playgroup will meet in our gym this Wednesday, January 19, from 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. This group is open to parents and their pre-school aged children, birth through 3 years old. For more information, please call Playgroup Coordinator Kathy Hanley at 921-0199.
END OF 1ST SEMESTER
Please note that next week Friday, January 28, is the end of the second quarter of the school year as well as the end of the first semester. School will not be in session that day, and I pray that our families enjoy that 3-day weekend.
THANK YOU
Thank you to the Bistro on the Boulevard in St. Joe for keeping empty wine bottles for the CLS Art program. Mrs. Reimann has plans to use the empty bottles for upcoming art projects in several classes. Thank you, also, to Mrs. Allred for soaking the bottles and removing labels.
SCRIP NEWS
Well, our Stevensville Meijer’s won’t be open until spring, but our Meijer’s scrip is here! Meijer offers 4% profit and we are currently carrying $25 and $100 gift cards. Please note: Meijer requires a mail-in check prior to shipping out the cards, so please be understanding that the process will take about 7 working days upon ordering. We will try to keep the cards in stock but there may be times when we are out due to high demand. Thank you!
GAME NIGHT
Join us for a fun night with friends and family of Christ Lutheran on Saturday, January 29th from 6-9pm. We will have board games, video games, bingo, a Euchre Tournament, and more! Please bring a snack to share and a white elephant gift (unwrapped) for bingo!
LIBRARY NEWS
We are in need of one or two more volunteers to help with library on Friday mornings. Soon we will be down to only two moms sharing this duty. This makes it difficult if one of them is unable to come in. If you are able to help out please speak with Mrs. Sukupchak or Mrs. Cole. Thank you.
WEEKEND TOURNAMENTS
Our basketball coaches and players have a busy weekend coming up. Both the 7/8 Girls and the 7/8 Boys will be at the Crystal Lake Tournament. While our 5/6 Girls and our 3/4 Girls will be at the Michigan Lutheran Tournament. Good luck everyone!
JUBILATE
The Jubilate Choir did a good job at Early Service on Sunday. Thank you for sharing your talents.
CRUSADER CORNER
Last weeks scores:
Girls Basketball:
CLS 3/4 played an excellent game against Trinity St. Joe. Way to go girls!
CLS 5/6 20; Trinity SJ 9
CLS 7/8 26; Trinity SJ 9
Boys Basketball:
CLS 5/6 vs. Resurrection South Bend
Cancelled due to weather, will be rescheduled.
CLS 7/8 won 2 and lost 2 at the Lion’s Club Tournament over the weekend.
This week’s schedule:
Girls Basketball:
Tuesday
7/8 Practice 3:00-4:30
3/4 Practice 4:30-6:00
Thursday
5/6 Practice 3:00-4:30
7/8 Practice 6:00-7:30
Friday
3/4 Practice 3:30-5:00 Parent meeting at 4:50
Friday & Saturday
7/8 Crystal Lake Tournament
Saturday & Sunday
3/4 Michigan Lutheran Tournament
5/6 Michigan Lutheran Tournament
Boys Basketball:
Wednesday
7/8 Practice 3:00-4:30
Saturday & Sunday
7/8 Crystal Lake Tournament
January 10, 2011
The ‘Right’ Way
One afternoon just before Christmas Break ended, I took my wife out to Coloma for an afternoon movie. Afterwards, Diane didn’t question why I headed north rather than back toward the highway. She knew that after a brief ride through the country we would be at our favorite fishing lake.
I parked at the boat launch, ventured out a ways onto the ice and, with binoculars, I could make out 9 ice fishermen around the mouth of one of the lake’s two channels. The channel they were fishing is located along a remote dirt road that is inaccessible in winter. So most of those fishermen either entered the lake from another channel located by a paved road and then walked a half mile or so to where the fish were biting, or they rode out on a snowmobile. Except for one guy…
As I was standing there at the north end of the lake, I noticed some movement to my right and, believe it or not, there was a guy on a bicycle pedaling across the ice. With a rope tied to his bike seat, he was towing a plastic sled behind him that contained his ice fishing gear and a white plastic lawn chair. It certainly wasn’t the way I would have felt right (or safe) about crossing that lake.
Years ago, an older, more experienced principal told me that he asked everyone wishing to enroll a child in his school, why they wanted to attend a Lutheran school. If they didn’t say that they wanted their child to learn about Jesus (what he considered the ‘right’ reason)…he turned them away. I was taken aback.
This wise old principal was a good person who faithfully loved and served his Lord, but I couldn’t agree with his reasoning. Not everyone does what they do for what we might call the ‘right’ reason. Over the years, I’ve had people tell me the right (and wrong) way to do just about everything, even pray. And I know they all meant well.
God calls us and continually leads us to Himself, even when we make poor decisions, ignore Him, take some dangerous detours…or do what appears to be a really dumb thing – like pedal a bike over a mile across a not-too-frozen lake. You and I certainly won’t do everything ‘right’ in this new year but thankfully, by His grace, God will continue to make us right with Himself through Jesus our Lord.
JANUARY CHAPEL OFFERINGS
Our students have done really well with their Chapel offerings this school year, and I complimented them following last week’s Chapel service. Our teachers have long recognized that the more their students know about the project, the greater the response, and they set as a goal this year to bring in speakers, materials, and as best we can to keep the project in front of the children. Thank you, for all the support and reinforcement you provide as a parent as well.
The Chapel project for January is Lutherans for Life. Lutherans for Life is an organization that believes in the sanctity of human life and supports the rights of the unborn, believing that God values every life. This is also what we teach our children as part of our Religion curriculum at CLS. Mr. Farrand has long been involved with LFL, especially at the State level here in Michigan, and I thank him for the leadership he brings in providing us materials for the school as well as Life Sunday which is observed in our church.
NO SCHOOL
CLS will not be in session next Monday, January 17, as we, with most of the other schools in Berrien County, observe Martin Luther King Day.
END OF 1ST SEMESTER
Please note on your calendar that the week after next is the end of the second quarter (and first semester) of the school year. As such, another 3-day winter weekend is available to our school families. Please check with your children, especially older ones, that their work and various projects are up-to-date and that they are ready for the end of the marking period. Thanks.
JORDAN’S NURSING HOME
This Wednesday, January 12 our 6th and 7th grade students travel to Jordans’ Nursing Home in Bridgman. They join Pastor Measel who will conduct a short service for the residents.
BERRIEN RESA PLAYGROUP
The Berrien RESA Parents As Teachers Playgroup meets in the gym at CLS next Wednesday, January 19, at 9:30 a.m. This group has really been growing this year, each month setting a new high number for this location. Last month, there were about 50 parents in attendance along with their pre-school aged child. If you’d like further information about the Playgroup, please call Kathy Hanley, Playgroup Coordinator, at 921-0199.
SEX EDUCATION
Sex Education is part of the CLS curriculum and has been for many years. We make use of excellent age-appropriate materials from Concordia Publishing House and Lutherans for Life, and everything is taught from a perspective of the sanctity of life as a precious gift from God our Heavenly Father. Since the materials are designed to be used in multi-grade (combined grade) settings, CLS teaches this part of our curriculum on an every other year basis. Instruction is scheduled for the week of January 24, and I ask that you please speak with your child’s teacher if you have any specific questions about what will be covered at their grade level. Also, materials may be previewed; please speak with Mr. Farrand or Mr. Strohacker for assistance.
8th GRADE PARENTS
If your 8th grader will be attending Lakeshore High School this fall you are invited to an information night. This event is scheduled for Monday, February 28 at 6:30 in the auditorium.
FIELD TRIP
This Friday our 4th and 6th graders travel to Five Pines for some fun in the snow! They will be leaving promptly at 8:30. They will be returning to school at 3:00. Please keep them in your prayers as they travel these winter roads.
SCRIP NEWS
Target cards are now available! They offer a 2% profit and are available in $25 and $100 denominations. We will stock the $25 and the $100 may be ordered.
CRUSADER CORNER
Last weeks scores:
Boys Basektball
CLS 5/6 24; LMC 5/6 19
CLS 5/6 30; New Buffalo 25
CLS 7/8 Watervliet Tournament 1 win and 2 losses
Girls Basketball
CLS 5/6 24; New Buffalo 16
This weeks schedule:
Boys Basketball
Monday
7/8 Practice 3:00-4:30
Wednesday
Resurrection SB @ CLS 5/6 @ 4:30
Friday
7/8 Practice 3:00-4:30
Saturday
7/8 Lion’s Club Tournament @ Upton/SJHS
Girls Basketball
Tuesday
5/6 Practice 3:00-4:30
3/4 Practice 4:30-6:00
Wednesday
7/8 Practice 3:00-4:30
Thursady
CLS 3/4 @ Trinity SJ @ 4:00
CLS 5/6 @ Trinity SJ @ 5:00
CLS 7/8 @ Trinity SJ @ 6:00
Happy New Year
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come! All this is from God, who reconciled us to Himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: that God was reconciling the world to Himself in Christ, not counting men’s sins against them. And He has committed to us the message of reconciliation. 2 Corinthians 5:17-19
When it’s all washed and polished, my 1999 Blazer looks pretty good…on the outside. However, even the guy at the car wash who commented one day that it, “looked like new,” wouldn’t give me what I paid for it when it was new, and you know why.
Everything gets old, as was evident by the repair bill on my Blazer last summer, the amount to make it road-worthy and safe for another fishing trip. The new year, 2011, is no different. Today is just the third day in, and I’m guessing that for most of us something already has taken the shine off this new year.
In Christ Jesus, God promises us newness on a daily basis. Or, if you’re like me, many times each day, as often as we need it. And when God says, “new,” He truly means it. Not just a wash and wax job or repairs like my old Blazer. All sins are removed, and nothing is counted against us. We truly are made new people by God’s grace to us through His Son, Jesus.
God’s blessings to all in our CLS family, as we live in the newness of God’s love and as we share that forgiveness with one another for Christ’s sake.
THANK YOU
Thank you, to Mrs. Ulmer and Mrs. Jackemeyer, for their leadership with this the recent Children’s Service and to all our teachers who worked in preparing their students.
THANK YOU
Thank you, to our parents and students for your many good wishes and thoughtful gifts at Christmas. Your generosity is much appreciated.
CONGRAGULATIONS
Congratulations to all the students who participated in the school portion of The National Geographic Bee just before Christmas Break. Special recognition and ‘well done’ to our top three finishers: Fourth Grader Samantha Pankratz – 1st Place; Fourth Grader Andrew Measel – 2nd Place; and Sixth Grader Carter Root – 3rd Place. Now that we’ve returned from break, Samantha will take a written test to try and qualify for the State-level competition which is held in the spring.
UNIFORMS
3rd and 4th grade boys need to return their freshly laundered uniforms this week. Please turn them in to Mr. Kern.
INSTANT ALERT
If you did not receive an instant
alert message on Sunday, please go online and check to see if your phone
numbers are correct. Winter is still here and we may have more
snow days. We have no way of knowing if the call center is unable
to reach you. For directions to setting up your account log on
at http://christ-luth.org/Parent_
CRUSADER CORNER
Scores from the week before Christmas Break:
Boys BB:
5/6 took first place at the Grand Rapids Tournament! Congratulations guys!
CLS5/6 36; Grace 18
CLS5/6 35; LMC5/6 28
CLS7/8 31; Lakeshore8 “B” 28
CLS7/8 30; Upton8”B” 25
Schedule for this week:
Boys BB:
Monday
CLS5/6 @ LMC5/6 @ 5:00
CLS7/8 Practice 3:00-4:30
Wednesday
New Buffalo @ CLS5/6 @ 6:00
CLS7/8 Practice 3:00-4:30
Friday
CLS7/8 Practice 3:00-4:30
Saturday
CLS7/8 @ Watervliet Tournament
Girls BB:
Tuesday
CLS5/6 Practice 3:00-4:30
CLS3/4 Practice 4:30-6:00
Wednesday
New Buffalo @ CLS5/6 @ 5:00
Thursday
CLS5/6 Practice 3:00-4:30
December 13, 2010
Children
Luke 2:7a
I’m guessing that children are on your mind a lot right now, perhaps more so than usual as we approach Christmas. I had a wonderful time with the children last week.
On Thursday, I not only got to begin my day listening to the children proclaim and sing of Jesus’ birth during our Children’s Service practice, but I also had the opportunity to accompany our 2nd and 3rd graders to the St. Joseph Senior Center for caroling as well as hear our Jubilate Choir carol at our own Christ Lutheran 50+ Christmas Luncheon.
What a blessing! And, what a blessing the Pastors and Teachers are who teach and lead God’s children.
And of course, there were other things as well, like 1st and 2nd grades accompanying Pastor Measel to Jordan’s last week, the Christmas Band Concert last Tuesday evening, and much more.
I’m very proud of our (your) children, and it is a joy to spend time with them here at school as well as for things like the Narnia movie at the theater on Friday. Last week, I also had the pleasure of leading the children in Chapel, allowing them to select favorite Christmas hymns to sing, and sharing the story of that Child who makes Christmas what it is, the Christ Child, our Lord and Savior, the Babe of Bethlehem.
God’s blessings to everyone in our Christ Lutheran family, at Christmas, and over the break. I pray that you have a most wonderful time with family, finding peace in the message of sins forgiven through Christ our Lord, and enjoying time together with God’s very precious gift to you, your own dear children.
The final Advent service is this Wednesday, December 15, at 1:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. Our students will lead us in worship, through song and the telling of Jesus’ birth. Please send a change of clothes with children on Wednesday, so they may ‘dress up’ for afternoon worship that day. Also, please volunteer to assist your child’s teacher in getting kids ready and perhaps even sitting with them in church.
Please remember that these are worship services and, as such, we ask that you do not use flash photography during church as it can be distracting to the children and other worshippers. The balcony provides a good place to set up video cameras, and you are certainly welcome to make use of that space. Also, as you have opportunity, please help by bringing others to church on Wednesday who may otherwise have difficulty getting out on their own, especially at night.
Following Wednesdays’ evening service, children will return to their classrooms, and parents are asked to pick them up there. The large crowd that night usually makes it easier to reunite children with their parents if you pick them up in the room.
The National Geographic Bee will take place this Tuesday, December 14, at 1:00 p.m. in the All Purpose Room. Parents and other visitors are welcome to attend. The top finisher will qualify to take a written test to try and advance to State level competition in the spring. Congratulations to our qualifying students.
Classroom Christmas parties are this Friday afternoon. If your child’s class is doing a student gift exchange, please consider bringing those gifts early in the week. It can be disappointing when a child doesn’t have something to open and, as you’d guess, it is more difficult for younger children. Thanks for your consideration.
Happy New Year
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come! All this is from God, who reconciled us to Himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: that God was reconciling the world to Himself in Christ, not counting men’s sins against them. And He has committed to us the message of reconciliation. 2 Corinthians 5:17-19
When it’s all washed and polished, my 1999 Blazer looks pretty good…on the outside. However, even the guy at the car wash who commented one day that it, “looked like new,” wouldn’t give me what I paid for it when it was new, and you know why.
Everything gets old, as was evident by the repair bill on my Blazer last summer, the amount to make it road-worthy and safe for another fishing trip. The new year, 2011, is no different. Today is just the third day in, and I’m guessing that for most of us something already has taken the shine off this new year.
In Christ Jesus, God promises us newness on a daily basis. Or, if you’re like me, many times each day, as often as we need it. And when God says, “new,” He truly means it. Not just a wash and wax job or repairs like my old Blazer. All sins are removed, and nothing is counted against us. We truly are made new people by God’s grace to us through His Son, Jesus.
God’s blessings to all in our CLS family, as we live in the newness of God’s love and as we share that forgiveness with one another for Christ’s sake.
THANK YOU
Thank you, to Mrs. Ulmer and Mrs. Jackemeyer, for their leadership with this the recent Children’s Service and to all our teachers who worked in preparing their students.
THANK YOU
Thank you, to our parents and students for your many good wishes and thoughtful gifts at Christmas. Your generosity is much appreciated.
CONGRAGULATIONS
Congratulations to all the students who participated in the school portion of The National Geographic Bee just before Christmas Break. Special recognition and ‘well done’ to our top three finishers: Fourth Grader Samantha Pankratz – 1st Place; Fourth Grader Andrew Measel – 2nd Place; and Sixth Grader Carter Root – 3rd Place. Now that we’ve returned from break, Samantha will take a written test to try and qualify for the State-level competition which is held in the spring.
UNIFORMS
3rd and 4th grade boys need to return their freshly laundered uniforms this week. Please turn them in to Mr. Kern.
INSTANT ALERT
If you did not receive an instant
alert message on Sunday, please go online and check to see if your phone
numbers are correct. Winter is still here and we may have more
snow days. We have no way of knowing if the call center is unable
to reach you. For directions to setting up your account log on
at http://christ-luth.org/Parent_
CRUSADER CORNER
Scores from the week before Christmas Break:
Boys BB:
5/6 took first place at the Grand Rapids Tournament! Congratulations guys!
CLS5/6 36; Grace 18
CLS5/6 35; LMC5/6 28
CLS7/8 31; Lakeshore8 “B” 28
CLS7/8 30; Upton8”B” 25
Schedule for this week:
Boys BB:
Monday
CLS5/6 @ LMC5/6 @ 5:00
CLS7/8 Practice 3:00-4:30
Wednesday
New Buffalo @ CLS5/6 @ 6:00
CLS7/8 Practice 3:00-4:30
Friday
CLS7/8 Practice 3:00-4:30
Saturday
CLS7/8 @ Watervliet Tournament
Girls BB:
Tuesday
CLS5/6 Practice 3:00-4:30
CLS3/4 Practice 4:30-6:00
Wednesday
New Buffalo @ CLS5/6 @ 5:00
Thursday
CLS5/6 Practice 3:00-4:30
Christmas Break begins at the close of the school day, 3:10 p.m. this Friday, December 17, and we resume school on Monday, January 3, 2011. God’s blessings to all this Christmas and wishes for a Happy New Year.Remember, there will be no Sunday School on Sunday, December 26. Please join us for our Epiphany Party on Sunday, January 2!
All students, parents, faculty, and staff of Lutheran Elementary Schools are invited to attend the Titans Girls Basketball Games on Tuesday, December 14. J.V. game starts at 6:00 p.m. Admission is free and each student will receive a Titan Dollar for the concession stand and will be registered for a drawing.
Corin Ettinger, Physical Education Teacher at Lakeshore Middle School, is looking for volunteers to help coach the Girls on Track program. This 10 week program helps girls develop self-esteem and self-acceptance. Coaches do not need to be runners themselves, they do need to be available two days a week either Monday/Wednesday or Tuesday/Thursday from 2:45-4:15 between March 7th and May 26th . Please call Corin at 428-1408 ext. 3030 if you are interested.
Last weeks scores were:
Boys BB:
CLS5/6 39; St. Paul South Haven 26
This weeks schedule:
Boys BB:
Monday
CLS3/4 @ St. Paul Stevensville @ 4:00
CLS5/6 @ St. Paul Stevensville @ 5:00
CLS7/8 @ Upton 8”B” @ 5:00
Tuesday
CLS3/4 @ Grace @ 4:00
CLS5/6 @ Grace @ 5:00
Thursday
Upton8 “A” @ CLS7/8 @ 5:00
Girls BB:
Monday
5/6 Practice 3:00-4:30
Tuesday
3/4 Practice 3:00-4:30
December 6, 2010
Lists
“He’s making a list…checking it twice…” This isn’t a Gospel-filled message. We know how it goes on – “He’s gonna find out who’s naughty…”
Have you been making lists lately? A list of what you want for Christmas. A list of what to buy for others. A shopping list – all the ingredients needed for those special cookies, Christmas dinner, etc.
Permit me a personal story. My father-in-law was ten years older than my mother-in-law, so when he retired at 62, Diane’s mom had a number of years of work at the library still ahead of her. The first day of his official retirement, my mother-in-law left for work and…left a list of things for the new retiree to do that day. When she got home that night, the list was untouched – nothing on it had been done. She thought to herself, “Well, it is his first day of retirement so…” and she left the list out again for him the next morning.
“When I got home that second day,” she said, “and saw the list still lying there. I thought to myself, ‘I wonder if he’s trying to send me a message?’”
Do you think? Then and there, she decided to stop leaving lists for my father-in-law. Good idea…
Now don’t get me wrong. Lists aren’t all bad. I frequently make lists for myself and, like my father-in-law, I usually… Well, that’s another story.
I’m sure that you’ve got a lot on your to-do lists during these days before Christmas. Lists can be helpful, but they can also distract us. It was for a whole list of our sins, more than can ever be counted, that God sent His Son into the world.
I pray that you find peace and comfort during this Advent season, looking forward to the only thing needful we should ever have on our list, Jesus our Savior, the Babe of Bethlehem.
ADVENT WORSHIP
Advent worship services continue this Wednesday evening at 7:00 p.m.
The Children’s Advent Service is next Wednesday, December 15, with services at 1:00 p.m. and again at 7:00 p.m. Please check on those who might need a ride or otherwise find it difficult getting out during these winter months. Thanks.
CHRISTMAS BAND CONCERT
I warmly invite everyone to this year’s CLS Christmas Band Concert, tomorrow night, Tuesday, December 7, at 7:00 p.m. Our band is under the direction of Mr. Tom Farrand. Please come out to support their efforts as well as enjoy the sounds of the season and, perhaps, even a few early Christmas cookies. See you there.
NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC BEE
Students in grades 4-8 recently took classroom tests to qualify and advance in The National Geographic Bee competition. Congratulations to 8th graders: Jimmy Gathright, Brian Root, (Audrey Conrad, Alt.); 7th graders: Collin Gaishin, Matthew Winter, (Chloe Kalinas, Alt.); 6th graders: Carter Root, Andrew Vigansky (Lucas Meyer, Alt.); 5th graders: Sarah Jackemeyer, Autumn Guffey (Alexis Strefling, Alt.); and 4th graders: to be determined. These students will compete in our School Bee phase next Tuesday, December 14, at 1:00 p.m. in our All-Purpose Room. The top finisher is eligible to take a written test to try and qualify for the State-level competition this spring. Parents and other guests are certainly welcome to attend.
SENIOR CENTER
Thank you to Mrs.Ulmer and Mrs. Sukupchak who are taking their students to carol at the North Lincoln Senior Center this Thursday, December 9, from 10:45 a.m. until noon.
JORDAN’S NURSING HOME
Our 1st & 2nd Graders join Pastor Measel at Jordan’s this Wednesday, December 8. Pastor will conduct a short service for the residents and the children will sing.
NARNIA
Thanks to Mr. Farrand (and Mrs. Cole) for making arrangements this Friday, December 10, for students in grades 4-8 to attend the latest movie in the C.S. Lewis “Narnia” series. The cost is $8.50 per person and may be paid in the office. Drivers are still needed so please speak with Mrs. Cole if you are able to drive. We will leave the grounds at 8:30 a.m. for our 9:00 a.m. screen time.
CHRISTMAS BREAK
Christmas Break begins at 3:10 p.m., the end of the school day, next Friday, December 17. Classes resume on Monday, January 3, 2011.
SUNDAY SCHOOL
There is no Sunday School on Sunday, December 26. Please join us on January 2 for our Epiphany Party!
CRAFT BAZAAR
The Craft Bazaar was held last Thursday, December 3. The children had a wonderful time shopping for their loved ones. Thank you to all the ladies who helped bring this event to a successful conclusion.
CRUSADER CORNER
Scores from last week:
Boys BB:
CLS 5/6 28: Trinity SJ 21
CLS 5/6 36; Trinity BS 32
CLS 7/8 56: Trinity SJ 18
Girls BB:
Palatine Tournament
The 7/8 Girls played two games this weekend before leaving early due to weather conditions. They won one and lost one. Good job girls!
This weeks schedule:
Boys BB:
Monday
7/8 Practice 3:00-4:30
Wednesday
7/8 Practice 3:00-4:30
Thursday
St. Paul South Haven @ CLS 5/6 @ 6:00
Friday
7/8 Practice 3:00-4:30
Friday & Saturday
5/6 to Grand Rapids Tournament
Girls BB:
Monday
5/6 Practice 4:30-6:00
Saturday
5/6 Practice 10:00-11:30
November 29, 2010
God’s Ways
An old adage declares that ‘God moves in mysterious ways.’ The saying itself is not a quote from the Bible but perhaps its origins may be found in Isaiah 55 where the prophet proclaims that God’s ways are not our ways and His thoughts are not our thoughts.
The author W.A. Poovey writes that God at times seems to go out of His way to do things in a manner that we might describe as “the hard way.” He picks a nation to be His chosen people and it turns out to be Israel, who He admits is the least among the nations. He selects a land for His people and chooses an area situated between the big nations of antiquity so that Israel is always being stomped on by Egypt or Assyria or Babylon.
He decides to save the world and then allows His Son to be born in a stable and to be driven into exile almost immediately by a petty tyrant. Strange, strange ways… Why does God reveal His strength in the weak and lowly things of the earth?
Did you ever see a father lift up a small child in a crowd and hold him above the heads of all the tall people? A father who does that is showing his love. The child no longer feels trampled on, no longer feels threatened by those around him. “See how tall I am,” he might exclaim, but we know that he isn’t tall in and of himself but rather because his father has shared his own tallness with the child.
That’s a good picture of God in action. His use of the small and weak things of the earth is an act of grace, a sign of His love. God doesn’t need help from the great or small. But when He reaches down and uses us in His work, He demonstrates His love and care for us.
May God bless us during the days of Advent as He prepares our hearts and makes us ready for the coming of His Son, Jesus, our Savior.
ADVENT
The Advent season is upon us, and so also are additional worship opportunities. Advent evening services times are:
Wednesday, December 1 - 7:00 p.m.
Wednesday, December 8 – 7:00 p.m.
Wednesday, December 15, - Children’s Service:
1:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.
CHRISTMAS BAND CONCERT
Be sure to set aside next Tuesday evening, December 7, at 7:00 p.m. for our annual CLS Christmas Band Concert. Under the direction of Mr. Farrand, our Band students will perform some wonderful music of the season. Please come out and support students and enjoy an evening of beautiful music.
CHILDREN’S CRAFT BAZAAR
Please excuse the error on the school calendar and in previous communications regarding the date of the Children’s Craft Bazaar. The Bazaar will take place this Thursday morning, December 2.
Thank you to the many moms who have worked so hard all year making gifts which our students can purchase at a reasonable price for members of their family.
Students will have an opportunity to shop the Bazaar this Thursday morning, and parent helpers will be there to assist them with purchases and getting their gifts wrapped and labeled.
A pricing list was sent home today to help you and your child plan a shopping list.
ADVENT CHILDREN’S SERVICE
Keep in mind that our Children’s Service on December 17, is held at 1:00 p.m. and again at 7:00 p.m. Teachers have greatly appreciated parental help in the past, both for the afternoon and evening. We do encourage children to ‘dress up’ for worship that day, and often it is best for kids, especially younger ones, to dress in regular school clothes in the morning but change before the afternoon service. Parents are a great help in getting the kids ready and often assist teachers by also sitting with the children in church. Thanks.
CLASSROOM CHRISTMAS PARTIES
Room Parents, please check with your child’s teacher regarding what type of arrangements they’d like for the classroom party on Friday, December 17. It has been our custom to have classroom parties near the end of the day as we prepare to leave for Christmas Break. Thanks for your helpfulness.
CHRISTMAS BREAK
Christmas Break begins at the close of the school day, 3:10 p.m. on Friday, December 17, and classes resume on Monday, January 3, 2011.
VOYAGE OF THE DAWN TREADER
Our 4th through 8th graders are going to the movies!
On Friday, December 10 the 4th -8th grades will go to Celebration Cinema to see “VOYAGE OF THE DAWN TREADER” the next movie in the Chronicles of Narnia Series. This series was written by Christian Author C.S. Lewis.
The cost is $8.50 per person and this includes a small drink and small popcorn. Please see Mrs. Cole if you are able to drive and to make your payment.
If there is anyone who can not afford this please speak to Mr. Strohacker or your child’s teacher.
CRUSADER CORNER
There were no games last week.
This weeks’ schedule:
Boys BB:
Monday
CLS3/4 @ Trinity SJ @ 4:00
CLS5/6 @ Trinity SJ @ 5:00
CLS7/8 @ Trinity SJ @ 6:00
Wednesday
7/8 Practice 3:00-4:30
Thursday
Trinity BS @ CLS5/6 @ 4:00
Friday
7/8 Practice 3:00-4:30
5/6 Practice 4:30-6:00
Saturday
5/6 Practice 10:00-11:30
Girls BB:
Tuesday
5/6 Practice 3:00-4:30
3/4 Practice 4:30-6:00
Thursday
7/8 Practice 6:00-7:30
Saturday
5/6 Practice 11:30-1:00
Saturday & Sunday
7/8 @ Palatine, IL Tournament
October 25, 2010
Cyber Challenges
I began last week’s newsletter stating that I was concerned and ended by identifying my concern as the challenge for young children to make proper decisions using new forms of communication like Facebook. And, I believe it is a matter of maturity rather than mere knowledge and training. As I concluded in last week’s article – look at the almost daily headline examples of adult mistakes. Adults, who are “supposed to know better…”
Last week I reviewed with students in grades 4-8 that they are not allowed to take pictures of students at school and post these on the Internet (or Facebook page). I think most adults are aware of the dangers this presents and probably know that when schools use such pictures, we do so without using last names or giving addresses. Does a young child have the common sense knowledge, or can they grasp why this precaution is taken?
One student last week, very innocently, asked me, “Is it was O.K. though to take pictures of friends when they are over at my house? Me and my friends do this all the time and post the pictures.”
That child is younger than another CLS student who last week expressed surprise to a teacher that someone they were talking to on Facebook (someone they didn’t know) might be an adult impersonating a child…
You tell me if they are mature enough to fully grasp the dangers and handle the responsibilities.
So, picture taking here at school and then posting – that’s a “No.” And everything done at home is O.K.? Well, no, again. Whatever we say online, adults and kids alike, can come back on us if it harms someone or is considered bullying. So, some things we say can get us into trouble regardless of where the message originates.
Parents, please do be vigilant so that your child’s use of social network sites does not bring harm to them or other children. Thank you.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY – MR. KERN
Friday, October 29
HAPPY BIRTHDAY - MRS. KABELMAN
Sunday, October 31
PRAYERS
Our sympathy and prayers go out to Mr. Wallace on the passing of his grandfather. Thank you to Mr. Young who subbed a few days for Mr. Wallace last week.
VISITOR
Next Wednesday, November 3, CLS students will have a very special visitor, CLS graduate Marcus Huff. Marcus, Class of CLS 1999, is currently the Executive Director of the British Columbia Mission Boat (Lutheran Church of Canada), and while in town visiting family, he will take time to speak with our students about mission work in general and the BC Mission Boat specifically. The BC Mission Boat is November’s Chapel offering project.
SPECIAL PERSONS DAY
Be sure your calendar is marked for next Friday, November 5, CLS’ annual Special Persons Day Open House. Our day begins with registration at 8:15 a.m., followed by Chapel at 8:45 a.m. led by Pastor Measel. After Chapel, our guests are welcome to spend the morning visiting classrooms and enjoying refreshments supplied by the PTL. School dismisses at 11:40 a.m. that day.
BOOK FAIR
The fall book fair is scheduled for Wed.-Fri. November 3-5. It will be open Wednesday & Thursday before and after school. Friday is also Special Person’s Day and the book fair will remain open all day. Anyone interested in helping out should contact Teresa Virsik at 757-2162.
MEAP tests were administered to our 7th & 8th grade students last week. Results are sent to schools in the spring.
COMPUTER CLASS
Computer classes have been going well with our lab once again set up in the Commons. I commend our students for the way in which they take care of the lab, especially during off hours by not toying or playing with the computers, and to everyone for watching out over the area when guests are in the building for after school events. 5th and 6th graders have spent the first quarter primarily on two things: Keyboarding and Cybersafety. In some of our spare time, we’ve also drilled a bit on ‘Math Facts in a Flash.’ 7th and 8th graders have been working on projects using online research and Power Point, as well as working on reports using Word.
ADULTS ON FACEBOOK
Twice last week, NBC ran stories about the danger of adults, also, sharing too much information over Facebook. Specifically, regarding their vacation or weekend plans. There are people who make a living these days gathering this type of information and then robbing empty homes.
SINGING
I want to share with parents something I’ve told your children almost every Wednesday since school began this year – “Their singing in Chapel has been exceptional.” The kids have been in exceptionally good voice this year, and I thank Mrs. Ulmer and Mrs. Jackemeyer for the work they have been doing with our children’s choirs.
The Third and Fourth Graders sang beautifully at Early Service yesterday. Mrs. Ulmer has been doing a phenomenal job with the 3rd & 4th grade choir. I know the congregation always enjoys hearing children perform.
FALL FAMILY FUN FESTIVAL
Saturday is our Fall Family Fun Festival from
7 p.m. to 10 p.m. There will be games, music, hayrides, and a campfire. Bring a snack to share and get ready for some fun!
SPAGHETTI SUPPER
Speaking of fun for the whole family, why not join us on Friday, November 12 for a Spaghetti Supper? The Ladies League is organizing this event and all proceeds will go towards all the special things that they take care of around the building. Free-will donations will gladly be accepted.
FIELD TRIP
The 3rd Grade class field trip to the Horn Archeology Museum at Andrew’s University in Berrien Springs has been canceled. We are trying to reschedule this event.
CRUSADER CORNER
Last weeks scores were:
Girls Volleyball:
CLS4 2; St. Paul SH 1
CLS5 2; Grace 1
CLS4 2; CLS5 1
Boys Soccer
CLS4/5 3; St. Paul Stevensville 4
CLS4/5 0; Trinity SJ 10
CLS6-8 1; Comstock 4
Next weeks schedule:
Boys Soccer:
Monday
CLS6-8 vs. SFC @ RWF @ 5:00
CLS4/5 @ Grace @ 4:00
Boys BB:
Wednesday
7/8 Practice 3-4:30
Thursday
7/8 Practice 3-4:30
Saturday
5/6 Practice 9-10:30
3/4 Practice 10:30-11:30
Girls BB:
Monday
7/8 Practice 3-4:30
Tuesday
7/8 Practice 3-4:30
Friday
7/8 Practice 3-4:30
October 18, 2010
Concern
I’d like to share with parents a concern that has been weighing heavily on me lately, but at the outset I need to make clear that this is not a gripe. Please, know that I’m sharing an observation and not pointing a finger at anyone in particular
My concern regards the growing use of social networks by increasingly younger children, including students in our school. Facebook would be one example, and I recently did talk about this with 4th – 8th graders, as did their teachers.
In CLS’ Computer Class, we cover the potential dangers that social networks and the Internet can pose, specifically predators and the whole ‘stranger danger’ thing. Very important stuff as we still have kids express surprise that someone they are talking to online (someone they don’t know) could be an adult pretending to be a child. I was surprised that some students do talk to strangers online.
Also, our school handbook has policies dealing with cyber-bullying, bullying in general, as well as appropriate and inappropriate Internet behavior. This, too, is covered in our Computer Class.
As with most technologies, over time things change, both in positive ways and in ways that are more challenging. I believe that increasingly younger children using social networking sites presents such a challenge, a serious challenge.
There are obvious rules in place at all schools regarding inappropriate uses of school computers. But what about at home? Most of the time students are only held responsible at school for infractions that occur at school. Cheating on your homework is probably the obvious exception. But newer technologies have brought change, and cyber- bulling would be an example. Today, it isn’t just what you say or do to someone at school that can get you into trouble but also what you do over the Internet if it brings a problem into a school setting. Sadly, the daily news is full of such examples.
My concern in a nutshell - the cases we hear of in the news, where people get into trouble by misusing e-mail, social networking sites, or other resources available over the Internet…are adults or young adults in college, high school, or junior high. If such mistakes are being made so frequently by people who “are old enough to know better,” how much more at risk are the younger ones among us who are not mature enough yet to fully comprehend all there is to know about both Internet social etiquette and cyber-danger. Thanks for your care and attention in this matter.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY – MRS. KERN
Tuesday, October 19
HAPPY BIRTHDAY – MRS. QUARDOKUS
Sunday, October 24
In the near future, work on the church bell tower will necessitate closing our driveway in order to accommodate a crane. The arrangement will be much like it was last spring. Please watch for barricades which will once again go up, and please stay out of the driveway during that time.
RESA PLAYGROUP
The Berrien RESA Playgroup will meet in our gym from 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. this Wednesday, October 20. This playgroup is for parents and children who are pre-school age. For additional information, call Kathy Hanley at 921-0199.
SPECIAL PERSONS DAY
Keep in mind that Special Persons Day is fast approaching. Students are welcome to bring their special persons to school on Friday, November 5.
FIELD TRIPS
This Thursday our 4th Graders will travel to Bridgman to tour the Cook Nuclear Plant. This expedition also includes a Dune Hike so wear comfortable clothes and shoes. The group will leave at 10:00 and return by 1:15 a sack lunch will be needed. All adults must bring a photo I.D.
On Friday the Kindergarteners will head to Three Oaks to tour Dinges Farms Fall Harvest.
Also on Friday the Preschoolers will go to Coloma to tour Jollay Orchards.
3rd & 4th SING
Remember on Sunday, October 24 the Third and Fourth Grades will be singing at Early Service. Please have your children here by 7:45 to warm-up in Mrs. Ulmer’s classroom.
THANK YOU
A big thank you goes out to two of our former students. Desiree Saxman and Ariel Koehler are both seniors this year at Michigan Lutheran. Last Wednesday the thirteenth was their annual Senior Service Day. The two young ladies came in for the day and helped out the teachers in whatever capacity was needed. What a wonderful opportunity to show our kids that no matter how young you may be, you can still serve the Lord by helping others.
DAIRY QUEEN UPDATE
The Dairy Queen fundraiser is off to a great start! We have more booklets in the office if your student needs extras. We can keep this fundraiser going as long as we have booklets to sell, so don’t worry about getting them sold by a set date. . The coupons are good until March 31, 2011.
CRUSADER CORNER
Scores from last week:
Girl’s Volleyball
CLS4 2; Grace 1
CLS4 3; Trinity SJ 0
CLS5 2; St. Paul Stevensville 1
CLS5 1; St. Paul South Haven 2
CLS7 2; Upton7 1
CLS8 2; Upton8 1
Boy’s Soccer
CLS4/5 1; Trinity SJ 5
CLS6-8 0; Fennville 6
CLS6-8 0: Niles 8
This week’s schedule:
Girl’s Volleyball
Monday
CLS5 @ Grace @ 4:00
CLS4 vs. St. Paul SH @ home @ 4:30
Tuesday
7/8 Practice 3:00-4:30
Wednesday
CLS4 @ CLS5 @ 4:00
Thursday (these two events are Quads)
CLS7 @ Lakeshore Middle School @ 4:00
CLS8 @ Upton @ 4:00
Boy’s Soccer
Tuesday
CLS4/5 vs. St. Paul Stevensville @ RWF @ 4:00
Thursday
CLS4/5 vs. Trinity SJ @ RWF @ 4:00
CLS6-8 @ Comstock @ 5:30
Girl’s Basketball
Friday
7/8 Practice 3:00-4:30
Boy’s Basketball
Wednesday
3/4 Practice 5:00-6:00
Friday
5/6 Practice 4:30-6:00
Saturday
5/6 Practice 9:30-11:00
October 4, 2010
Grace – God’s Greatest Gift
Well, it is October already, and as we enter this month my mind always races ahead to the end of the month and Reformation Day. While I read the writings of Martin Luther quite a bit, I probably pick it up a bit during this particular month.
Lutherans certainly don’t worship Martin Luther. And, although he was definitely a very learned man of faith, I don’t think we look to Luther just because he was intelligent or wrote well. For me, I often look to Luther because of the direction in which he points me – The Holy Bible.
Years ago, our Michigan Lutheran principals often held their conferences at Catholic retreat centers on the east side of the state. They have some nice facilities and gave us a great rate, plus good food. I clearly recall at one conference being welcomed by the priest who had recently become administrator of the center at which we were staying.
In his welcome to us, he mentioned how very much he appreciated Dr. Martin Luther. That took us by surprise but not as much as his next statement. He went on to tell us that he was a Luther scholar. “I love reading Luther because of the great comfort it gives me.”
That comfort the priest was speaking about is God’s grace. I love reading Luther because he points me to God’s Holy Word, and in God’s Word the Holy Spirit reveals to me God’s wonderful grace through His Son, Jesus. In that grace, we find peace and comfort that our sins are forgiven, and our salvation is secured.
Luther says that “grace rests on The Word alone.” Human nature (the world) wants to feel and be certain before it believes. ‘Seeing is believing.’ Faith, however, believes before it sees. By grace, we step out cheerfully, following the bare Word no matter what things appear to be like or how the world views them. Grace clings to The Word.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY (BELATED) – Mrs. Allred
Yesterday, Sunday, October 3
HAPPY BIRTHDAY - Mrs. Beach
Saturday, October 9
PICTURE DAY
Tomorrow is picture day. Everyone will have their picture taken whether they purchase a package or not. Lifetouch Studios is offering new selections this year so be sure to read your form carefully. Extra forms are available in the office.
TEACHERS’ CONFERENCE
Please note on your calendar that next week is Teachers’ Conference. CLS will not be in session on Thursday and Friday, October 14-15.
INSTANT ALERT
If you haven’t already done
so, please log on to the CLS web site http://christ-luth.org/
WORLD BOOK ENCYCLOPEDIA
Also on the CLS web site, you will find a link to World Book Encyclopedia Online. Using our school’s login - christluth (all lower case) and password – (Please call the office), you and your children can access the encyclopedia online at no charge and make use of this for school reports and the like.
COMPUTER LAB
The Computer Lab has been up and running in the Commons area of our building for the past two weeks. Thank you to Mrs. Beach and her students who weekly set up and take down the lab. This set up has worked well for over a year now and enables daily computer classes in a lab setting.
PRINCIPAL VISITS
A letter went out last week to parents of 5th graders inviting each family to sign up for an appointment with Mr. Strohacker during the month of October. Please talk to Mrs. Cole in our office or to Mr. Strohacker soon to schedule an appointment. The purpose of these individual meetings is to provide an opportunity to gather direct input from families regarding the CLS program to this point in their experience and as well as information about what families are looking for in an effective junior high program. By the middle of this week, Mrs. Cole will begin contacting families we haven’t heard from in order to try and set up an appointment. Your thoughts will be helpful in building a strong future for our students at CLS. Thank you.
FIRE SAFETY
Lincoln Township Fire Department will be here on Wednesday of this week. They will talk with our Kindergarten through 2nd Grade students about fire safety.
CONSENT FORM
Coming home today is a consent form for the use of pictures in school publications and non-school publications. Please look for this form and read it carefully. If you have any questions or concerns call the office and speak with Mrs. Cole.
CLS GOT TALENT
Last call to order a copy of May’s talent show. DVD’s are $10 with checks made payable to Jeff Harris. Also, anyone who received a defective DVD this spring may bring it to the office with their name on it. See Mrs. Cole in the office for either of these issues.
CRUSADER CORNER
Last weeks Scores:
Volleyball:
CLS4 1; South Haven 2
CLS5 1; Grace 2
CLS7 1; Upton7 2
CLS7 3; Trinity SJ 0
CLS8 1; Upton8 2
CLS8 3; Trinity SJ 0
Congratulations 8th Grade Girls on your 1st Place Finish at the Ann Arbor Tournament!
Soccer:
CLS4/5 0; Trinity SJ 8
CLS4/5 2; Grace 8
CLS6-8 0; Lawton 8
CLS6-8 0; Upton2 6
This weeks schedule:
Girl’s Volleyball:
Monday
CLS4 @ St. Paul Stevensville @ 4:00
CLS5 @ Trinity St. Joe @ 4:00
Tuesday
CLS7 vs. ML @ Grace @ 5:30
CLS8 vs. ML @ Grace @ 5:30
Wednesday
7/8 Practice 3-4:30
Thursday
Trinity BS @ CLS7 @ 4:00
Trinity BS @ CLS8 @ 5:00
Friday
CLS5 Practice 3-4:30
Sunday 10/10
7/8 Practice 12-1:30
Boy’s Soccer:
Monday
CLS4/5 @ Resurrection South Bend @ 4:30
Tuesday
CLS4/5 vs. St. Paul Stevensville @ RWF @ 4:00
Friday
Paw Paw vs. CLS6-8 @ RWF @ 5:30
Girl’s Basketball:
Monday
7/8 Practice 3-4:30
September 27, 2010
Be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power. Ephesians 6:10
In the Lord
Has there ever been a time when people haven’t glorified the body? Look at art through the ages, at the ancient Greeks or Romans, and frequently you will find an emphasis on beauty and strength.
This emphasis remains today because we are still a sinful, prideful people. In our day and age, there is even more we can do cosmetically and otherwise to ‘enhance’ these physical characteristics.
Now, there certainly is nothing wrong with taking care of ourselves, practicing good health and nutrition, regularly exercising and the like, as we care for the body which God has given to us. But what about when we are all-consumed with these physical things? What if this becomes where we find our comfort and strength?
One of the more notable stories in recent times has been about steroid use in sports, especially pro sports. There has been quite a bit of uproar about whether some records should stand or be erased because an athlete has used performance enhancing drugs, essentially getting their strength through inappropriate means.
Where do Christians find their strength? St. Paul says that we should, “Be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power.” This is the school theme our Faculty recently chose for this school year, and it is certainly appropriate.
Moms and dads, pastors and teachers, all who work for the spiritual welfare of children, point the little ones to God the Father, our Maker and Protector, to Jesus, our Savior and Redeemer, and to the Holy Spirit, our Comforter and Guide.
Together, we encourage one another to remain strong in the Lord and His power, the source of strength that does not fade over time but remains ours through all eternity.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY PASTOR MEASEL
Tuesday, September 28
MAGAZINE SALES
Magazine sales ended last Friday, September 24. We are currently waiting for the final tally to see if the students have earned a pizza party. The prizes that the students earned will be ordered this week and distributed as soon as they arrive.
VOYAGEUR CANOES
Tomorrow, our 4th graders will visit Grand Mere’s North Lake to experience a valuable and unique resource we have in our community – Sarett Nature Center’s Voyageur Canoes. It’s not often you get to see a 35-foot-long canoe, let alone one that resembles the Montreal canoes that 17th-century French Voyageurs traveled in on their fur-trading missions through the Great Lakes and Western Canada. Many schools travel long distances to enjoy what we have right in our backyard.
TEACHERS’ CONFERENCE
Although it’s difficult to believe, we are beginning the month of October at the end of this week. Be sure to note on your calendar that Christ Lutheran School is not in session on Thursday and Friday, October 14-15. Fall Teachers’ Conference takes place those days, and students have those days off.
PARKING LOT
Thank you for the attention everyone has given to our parking lot procedures. I still have someone occasionally park in the front row after school, but it has usually been a grandma or grandpa who is not aware of our safety procedures, and they have all been very understanding when I’ve spoken with them. The driveway has been great – no traffic jams between cars and the bus this month. Thank you for that, also, as well as for watching your speed.
CHAPEL OFFERINGS
Chapel offerings for the month of September will be going to Christ Lutheran Church’s Scholarship Fund which supports college students who are members of Christ Lutheran Church and pursuing a career in professional church work, usually as a Lutheran Pastor or Teacher. Students, thank you for your generosity in giving to the Lord.
Our offerings for the month of October will be sent to STEMM – Siouxland Tanzanian Educational Medical Missions. Mrs. Kern’s brother, Richard, is active in this ministry which is based in Iowa (that’s the Siouxland part) and provides educational and medical support to villages in Tanzania. Some may recall last year that our junior high students did Power Point presentations about this mission for our guests on Special Persons Day. Mrs. Kern’s brother also visited and spoke to students about this work last year.
Chapel offerings for the month of November have been designated for the British Columbia Mission Boat. CLS alumnae and Concordia University graduate, Marcus Huff, has been working in this mission field. He will be at Christ Lutheran on Wednesday, November 3, leading an assembly for lower grades and another for upper grades, telling them about the Lutheran Church of Canada’s mission work in British Columbia.
OOPS
We accidentally left Thursday, September 30 off the hot lunch menu. For this Thursday we will be serving Chili, Corn Bread, and Side Salad. We are sorry for any inconvenience this may have caused.
CRUSADER CORNER
Last week’s scores were:
Girl’s Volleyball:
CLS 4th 1; Grace 2
CLS 4th 2; Trinity SJ 1
CLS 5th 1; St. Paul Stevensville 2
CLS 5th 1; St. Paul South Haven 2
CLS 7th 1; Michigan Lutheran 2
CLS 8th 2; Michigan Lutheran 1
Boy’s Soccer:
CLS 4/5 2; Resurrection South Bend 3
CLS 4/5 2; Grace 4
CLS 4/5 2; St. Paul Stevensville 4
CLS 6/7/8 1; Grace Christian 2
CLS 6/7/8 0; New Prairie 4
This week’s schedule:
Girl’s Volleyball:
Monday
CLS 4 @ South Haven @ 4:00
Grace @ CLS 5 @ 4:00
Tuesday
Upton 7 @ CLS 7 @ 4:00
Upton 8 @ CLS 8 @ 5:00
Wednesday
CLS 7/8 Practice 3-4:30
Thursday
Trinity SJ @ CLS 7 @ 4:00
Trinity SJ @ CLS 8 @ 5:00
Boy’s Soccer
Monday
CLS 6/7/8 @ Lawton @ 6:00
Tuesday
CLS 4/5 vs. Trinity SJ @ Rocky Weed @ 4:00
Thursday
CLS 4/5 @ Grace @ 4:00
CLS 6/7/8 @ Upton 2 @ 6:00
ST. PAUL’S INVITAIONAL
St. Paul’s in Ann Arbor will be hosting a Volleyball Invitational for the 8th Grade team this Saturday, October 2. Doors open at 11:30 with the first pool play to start at Noon. Admission is $2 and concessions will be available throughout the tournament.
September 20, 2010
The Lost Sheep
“Rejoice with me; I have
found my lost sheep.”
Luke
15:6b
I led Chapel last week, and I always welcome and enjoy this opportunity to share God’s Word with the children. Using the previous Sunday's Gospel, my focus was on Jesus' parable of the lost sheep. When I was about 8 years old, my brother, Don, 4 years old at the time, got lost.
I came home from school one afternoon to find my mom crying. Dad was hurriedly getting their coats, and I was left in the care of Grandma. They had just received a call from the police that they had found Don, and he was safe at the police station.
Don was playing out front that day, all quite normal, when he saw a woman walking down the street wearing a coat that looked like Mom's. He followed this lady for several blocks, crossing several busy streets, and trying to catch up. He finally caught the woman about a half a mile from home, out front of one of my very favorite places, "Rainbow Donuts" at 63rd and Damen on Chicago’s south side.
I remember thinking at the time, "How dumb! How can you get lost just walking around the neighborhood?" I also wondered, "What's the big deal anyway? You still have me and Russ..."
One little boy in Chapel explained to me that my mom was crying "because it just wouldn't have been the same without your brother, Don..."
God sent Jesus, our Shepherd, to find His lost sheep. It doesn't matter how we became lost, whether that be through our own arrogance or stupidity, or by following the wrong person. And regardless of how many sheep are already in the fold, Jesus never stops seeking those who are still lost.
CHURCH AND SUNDAY SCHOOL
Fall Bible study programs and Sunday School are in full swing. Parents, please remember the importance of bringing your children to church and Sunday School regularly. Just as we wouldn’t think of withholding food for our child’s physical needs, so we also desire to provide them the daily spiritual nourishment of God’s Word.
MAGAZINE SALES
Remember tomorrow Tuesday, September 21 is the last date to turn in orders. If we reach our goal of 550 orders the PTL will throw a pizza party for the whole school. So, let’s all pull together and try to gain a few more orders.
HEARING & VISION SCREENING
Thursday, September 23 a technician from the Berrien County Health Department will be in our building. She will test vision only for the Fifth and Seventh grade students. For students in First and Third grades she will test both hearing and vision.
Preschool and Kindergarten students will have both hearing and vision tested. Those who were screened between the ages of three and five will have only their hearing tested.
THANK YOU
Wendy Moore has graciously volunteered to be our new PTL President. Please welcome her and offer her your support as she learns the ropes of this new position. The PTL is still in need of a Secretary and a Vice-President. If you feel that your talents could be used in either of these areas please contact Wendy Moore or Amy Cole.
INSTANT ALERT
Last Wednesday, we had a large
funeral at Christ Lutheran Church, one which made it necessary to cancel
Hot Lunch and brown bag it so the ladies could use the kitchen to
prepare
a funeral dinner. This doesn’t happen often but once in a while,
and I thank everyone for their understanding. Mrs. Cole activated
the Instant Alert system in order to make parents aware of this change,
and everything worked very well. If you still haven’t gone on
line to input your contact information, please do so soon. You
can register and supply your contacts at http://christ-luth.org/Parent_
WORLD BOOK ONLINE
A reminder to students and
parents that Christ Lutheran School maintains an annual subscription
to World Book Encyclopedia Online that all of our families are
welcome to access from any computer. The web address is: http://www.worldbookonline.com
Again, this is an annual subscription already paid for which all our students and their families are welcome to access at any time. Students do use this resource at school, and in my Computer Class last year, some even cut and pasted pictures from the site for use in Power Point presentation assignments.
SCRIP
Scrip is off to a great start this year. In fact it’s expanding! Some of the new in stock offerings are
Toys R Us $20 1.5%
Qdoba Mexican Grill $25 7%
Honey Baked Ham $10 12%
Dunkin’ Donuts $10 4%
Long John Silver’s $5 8%
Espress N Go $5 8%
Prepaid Visa cards are available from now until March. They are offered in denominations of $25 / $50 / $100 for a 2% return. These are great for college students, vacations, and Christmas shopping.
CRUSADER CORNER
Last week’s scores were:
Girl’s Volleyball:
CLS 4th 1; St. Paul Stevensville 2
CLS 5th 1; Trinity SJ 2
CLS 7th 3; Trinity SJ 0
CLS 7th 1; Trinity BS 2
CLS 8th 3; Trinity SJ 0
CLS 8th 3; Trinity BS 0
Boy’s Soccer:
Christ 6/7/8 0; LMC 8
Christ 6/7/8 0; Brandywine 2
This week’s schedule:
Girl’s Volleyball:
Monday
CLS 5 @ St. Paul Stevensville @ 4:00
Grace @ CLS 4 @ 4:00
Tuesday
ML7 @ CLS 7 @ 5:30
ML8 @ CLS 8 @ 6:30
Wednesday
St. Paul SH @ CLS 5 @ 4:00
CLS 4 @ Trinity SJ @ 4:00
Thursday
7/8 Practice 3:00-4:30
Friday
5th Practice 3:00-4:30
Boy’s Soccer:
Monday
Res. SB vs. CLS 4/5 @ Rocky Weed @ 4:30
Tuesday
CLS 4/5 @ Grace @ 4:00
Grace Christ. vs. CLS 6-8 @ Rocky Weed @ 6:00
Thursday
CLS 4/5 vs. St. Paul Steve. @ Rocky Weed @ 4:00
CLS 6-8 @ New Prairie @ 6:00
September 13, 2010
No Christian Government
“It is out of the question that there can be a common Christian government over the entire world or, for that matter, over one country or a great number of people…”
I hesitated more than once before typing that title and the quote which followed, so please do not jump on me too quickly. What a strange thing for a Christian, a Lutheran school principal no less, to say.
This Friday, September 17, is Constitution Day in the United States. I praise and thank God for this great nation and our Constitution.
The words above are those of Dr. Martin Luther, a strong advocate of government…even bad ones. His quote continues: “for the wicked are always far more numerous than the pious.”
Luther distinguished between two kingdoms, one of power and the other of grace. Sometimes we refer to these as The Kingdom of the Left Hand (government and secular authorities) and The Kingdom of the Right Hand (the Church, God’s grace). Luther recognized that in a sinful world, an authority was necessary to establish laws in order to, as best as possible, protect and keep people safe.
So, Luther advocated respect and obedience to the government, even ones we don’t always agree with, because God established government.
Luther also said that any government could not exist for a single second without God’s consent. God established these two kingdoms, and He still, ultimately, rules over all things.
And so, we trust God’s will and His wisdom, obeying the earthly authorities He has allowed to rule over us and giving Him thanks for any good they may, by His grace, accomplish.
MAGAZINE SALES
The Parent-Teacher League Magazine Sales kicked off last Wednesday, and it is the primary fund raiser the PTL does for the year. Please support our students in this sale as all profit is used by the PTL to do things for the children in our school. We do not encourage students to go door to door especially by themselves.
Turn in dates are Tuesday 9/14; Thursday 9/16; and Tuesday 9/21. Students will receive their awards the following day. If we make our school wide goal, all of the students will receive a pizza party!
SCRIP
Thanks very much to Patti LaBaumbard for speaking to parents about the SCRIP program at last Tuesday’s PTL meeting following Opening Chapel. Thank you, also, to Teri Harris who is taking over Patti’s role as coordinator for SCRIP.
Please note that the SCRIP box will no longer be available for people to access individually during the school day, and we ask that you see Amy Cole or Christine Quardokus for assistance in making a purchase. The box will also be locked up and unavailable after the office closes. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause anyone, but these are necessary steps in order to maintain accurate accounting and tracking of the inventory.
Remember Scrip is still available every Sunday after each Service and again every Monday morning.
BAND NOTES
Concert Band rehearsal starts tomorrow (Tuesday) Sept. 14 at 7:15 a.m. Band Handbooks were placed in mailboxes so please check your box.
RESA PLAYGROUP
The Berrien County RESA’s “Parents As Teachers Playgroup” has met monthly at Christ Lutheran for the past two years and continues to grow in numbers. This is an excellent program which is open to parents and their pre-school aged children in our neighborhood. You do not have to be a Christ Lutheran church or school family to attend, so please share this information with young parents you know who may be looking for such a resource. Playgroup Coordinator, Kathy Hanley, can be reached at 921-0199 if you have questions. The Playgroup meets in our gym from 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. once a month. In addition to the many age-appropriate activity centers Ms. Hanley sets up, there is also time for parent interaction and networking.
The first Playgroup get-together for this school year is Wednesday, September 15. Additional play dates are (all Wednesdays): October 20, November 17, January 19, February 16, March 16, and April 20.
CONGRATULATIONS
Congratulations and God’s blessings to Mrs. Jackemeyer and Mrs. Young on their First Installation into the Lutheran Teaching Ministry this past Sunday. Please continue to keep these faithful workers as well as all our Pastors and Teachers in your prayers as they work with our children and share God’s Holy Word.
SUNDAY SCHOOL
This past Sunday was also the kick-off for this year’s Sunday School program. Parents are encouraged to attend church and Sunday School (Bible Class) regularly with their children. Guests and visitors are also welcome, so when classroom choirs are singing in church, please also feel most welcome to join us for Sunday School and Adult Bible Class as well.
BROWNIES
All 2nd & 3rd Grade girls interested in joining our Brownie Troop should meet in the commons area Tuesday, September 13 at 3:15. Our meeting will end at 5:00. Thank you for your interest.
MIDDLE SCHOOL RETREAT
The annual fall retreat for middle school students is scheduled for Friday, September 24 at Grand Mere. Our 6th through 8th grade students and their teachers will gather with neighboring Lutheran Middle Schools. Please keep all of these students, teachers, and adult chaperones in your prayers as they travel, do Bible Study, and recreate together.
FUNERAL
The funeral for Marcella Reitz will be held at our Church on Wednesday, September 15 at 10:00. The Ladies League will also be providing a luncheon for the mourners at 11:30. Please remind your children to show appropriate respect for the mourners by keeping the noise level down. Also, if you will be in the building during those times please park towards the rear of the parking lot.
SPORTS KORNER
This week’s girl’s volleyball schedule is:
Tonight - 7/8 practice 3:00-4:30
Tues., Sept. 14th - 7th @ TSJ @ 4:00
8th @ TSJ @ 5:00
Wed., Sept.15th – TSJ @ CLS 5 @ 4:00
TSJ @ CLS 4 @ 5:00
Thurs., Sept. 16th – 7th @ TBS @ 4:00
8th @ TBS @ 5:00
This week’s boy’s soccer schedule is:
Tonight – LMC vs. CLS 6-8 @ RWF @ 6:00
Tues., Sept. 14th – CLS 6-8 @ Brandywine @ 6:00
SCHOOL FEES
All school fees are now past due. If you still owe school fees please call Mrs. Cole in the office and make arrangements. Remember checks should be made out to Christ Lutheran School.
Day-school and Preschool tuition is due at the first of each month unless other arrangements have been made. First & last months tuition for preschool is now past due. Checks for tuition should be made out to Christ Lutheran Church.
Kindergarten milk money in the amount of $36, for the first semester, is now due.
September 7, 2010
Welcome
“And whoever welcomes a little child like this in My name, welcomes Me.” Matthew 18:5
Welcome. For some, this is “welcome to Christ Lutheran” for the very first time. And, indeed, welcome! I’m glad you are here.
Welcome back. For others, this is “welcome back to Christ Lutheran” – I missed you over the summer. I’m glad you are here, also.
God welcomes people into His presence, into His family, and from some of Jesus’ words, we know He especially welcomed little children. The children are very precious in His sight.
God always welcomes us because He loves us. And, at times, He also welcomes us back because as sinners, we do at times stray or do things that separate us from God. Through His Son, Jesus, our Savior, however, God always stands ready with open arms to welcome us back to Himself.
WELCOME
I have several special welcomes to make at the start of this new school year.
First, welcome to my new secretary, Amy Cole. Mrs. Cole actually came on board in late May, making the transition as my previous secretary entered retirement. Mrs. Cole has been a blessing and has been working faithfully all summer to become acquainted with the job. Having 3 children in our school, she brought with her a great deal of familiarity with the CLS program. To that, she’s also added her own unique talents, and I’m very confident she will be helpful to you and a blessing to our school.
Second, welcome to our new First Grade Teacher, Mrs. Courtney Young. Mrs. Young is a recent graduate of Concordia University, Chicago, IL. She is also a Michigan native…although for some reason she seems to favor the colors green and white over maize and blue. Mrs. Young’s is from Bay City (Amelith), MI, she recently got married, and her husband, Ryan, is also a teacher and graduate of Concordia, Chicago. Mrs. Young has been around much of the summer, helped out in our Vacation Bible School, and I’m very pleased to welcome her to our faculty.
NEW STUDENTS & FAMILIES
A special welcome, also, to our new students and school families:
Kindergarten: Garrett Damron (Donnie and Kathy); Nathan Dokter (Brian and Julie); Briggs Ford (Russ and Annelise); Clay Guffey (Paul and Shelly); Nathan Hawks (Brent and Angela); Dannette McClintock (Richard and Denise); Erin Moerler (Michael and Andra); Alayna Nolte (Scott and Jen); Brayden Stevens (David and Gina).
1st Grade: Ella Berndt (Scott and Amy); Courtney Kerns (Randy and Trina); Nathaniel Necas (Donald and Rochelle); Justin Ott (David and Shelly).
2nd Grade: Amy Grice (Elizabeth Hunter).
3rd Grade: Donald Necas (Donald and Rochelle); Benjamin Thompson and Eden Thompson (Dr. Troy and Lori Thompson).
4th Grade: Nikolas Berndt (Scott and Amy); Ezekial “Zeke” Hunter (Elizabeth Hunter).
5th Grade: Madeline Necas (Donald and Rochelle); Deleigh McClintock (Richard and Denise); Adam Rice (Clinton and Christin).
In all CLS welcomes 22 new children this year!
THANK YOU
Thank you to Gerry Kabelman for all the work he did throughout this summer installing new technologies too numerous to mention. We especially thank Mr. Kabelman for the awesome task of installing 3 new interactive white boards as well as moving some others around. Currently, we have interactive boards in the All Purpose Room, 2nd grade classroom, 4th grade, 6th grade, 7th grade and 8th grade. Thanks, also, to all who helped raise funds last spring to make these purchases possible.
INSTANT ALERT
We will again this year be
making use of the Honeywell Instant Alert messaging system. CLS
uses this system for contacting parents regarding school closings,
emergency
announcements, and many other school related reminders. Log on
at http://christ-luth.org/Parent_
PARKING LOT REMINDERS
Parents (or whoever may be dropping off or picking up your child), please stay out of the driveway during times when the Lakeshore School bus is here (around 8:30 a.m. and between 3:10 and 3:20 p.m.). If you inadvertently do pull in behind the bus, please remember that, just like out on the road, it is not permissible to pass the bus, so if it is sitting there dropping off or picking up students, for the safety of the children, you should not go around the bus. Thank you.
Also for the safety of the
children, we ask people to not park in the front row of parking spaces
(those nearest the building) after school. People backing up while
children are going through the lot to their cars does pose a safety
hazard. Again, thanks.
CELL PHONES
Cell phone use at CLS has worked well, and I thank our parents and students who have followed our rules so well in the past. As in most schools, CLS students are allowed to have cell phones, but these must remain off and put away in their back pack or locker during the day. Students needing to make a phone call during the school day are required to get permission from their teacher to use the office phone, and Mrs. Cole is there to monitor things and provide assistance when necessary.
DRESS CODE
Most dress code items are addressed in the school handbook, but every year there seems to be new items which raise questions. I haven’t looked forward to mentioning the following and will probably take a good deal of teasing from some parents…but here goes. As much as I am supportive of breast cancer research, there is a new plastic bracelet (currently causing a stir in California schools) that, as the media has put it, is part fashion statement, part political statement. The pink bracelets which read “I Love Boobies,” may not be worn at school or school events. Please respect this decision and help your children to understand these shouldn’t be worn to school.
LUNCH TICKETS
Lunch tickets will go on sale tomorrow Wednesday, September 8. Prices will remain the same as last year: $2.50 for grades 1-5; $2.75 for grades 6-8; $3.00 for adults; 50¢ for a drink ticket. Tickets are typically on sale the first full day of the week (usually Monday). State requirements allow for milk only with lunch. If your child would like a second milk or a juice, a separate drink ticket must also be purchased. Tickets may be borrowed from the office during the week. Borrowed tickets should be paid for the following week. If your child forgets his lunch we will have PB & J Uncrustables on hand. We are still in need of volunteers to help serve lunch. If you are interested please call the office and speak with Mrs. Allred or Mrs. Cole.
LIBRARY
The school library is typically open on Fridays. Each class will be scheduled a time to go and pick out a book. Volunteers are always needed to help check books in/out and to read to the younger grades. This is a great way to get to know all the students in the school. If interested in volunteering please see Mrs. Sukupchak.
WEBSITE
The Church and School website is
www.Christ-luth.org. Pastor Quardokus and Mrs. Cole will try to keep current information on the site such as; current monthly calenders, hot lunch menus, and sports schedules. There is also information concerning Instant Alert, Scrip order forms, and other programs. Please check out the site and let us know what you think.