This weekend begins our special Fall Sermon Series, based on the inspirational book by Mark Allan Powell, Giving to God. Powell is a Bible scholar and theologian widely recognized for his work in spiritual formation and congregational ministries. He is the Robert and Phyllis Leatherman Professor of New Testament Studies at Trinity Lutheran Seminary in Columbus, Ohio and has authored nearly 20 books.

Pastor Reents will be preaching on the subject, "Getting Completely Wet: Baptismal Stewardship". To quote Powell, " . . . stewardship is about getting completely wet. It is about looking at ourselves, discovering what it is that we would like to keep dry, and then immersing whatever that is in the waters of Holy Baptism. Stewardship is about giving to God. It is about turning total control of our lives over to God. It is about taking seriously the words that we so easily pray: 'Thy kingdom come, thy will be done.' When we pray, 'Thy kingdom come,' we ask God to rule our lives. When we pray, 'Thy will be done,' we ask for what God wants to happen in our lives to take place - already, now, on earth as in heaven." Join us this weekend and learn more. Discover the meaning of baptismal stewardship and living a life of total immersion into the grace of God!

Educational Opportunities for All Ages

This weekend is also Rally Day -- the first weekend of Joy Zone (Sunday School), Genesis (Junior High), and Extreme Faith Bible Studies (Senior High), as well as a series of Adult Education classes (Sundays in the Sanctuary). Children, youth and adults are beginning an exciting year of learning and growing in faith! St. John's pastors will be offering a special small group study on Giving to God each Sunday @ 9:00 a.m. in the Chapel and on Wednesdays @ 6:30 p.m. in the Chapel. If you are interested in becoming part of a small group this fall, please contact our Pastoral Intern, David Bruner by phone (827-6121 - ext. 208) or by e-mail: david@stjohnsbloomington.org