From Pastor David

Pentecost blessings! For years, I’ve heard the passage from Acts 2 read by people speaking different languages! It can be entertaining and engaging, but I have often heard this passage read from start to finish, in languages I didn’t know at all. Suppose I were not familiar with this passage already. In that case, I’d likely not understand it, which runs contrary to the point of the story itself, that everyone understood the Gospel message of Jesus Christ in their own language.

Understanding is the key. Years ago, when I was new in the congregation, I had a member who teased me regularly about my rapid speech pattern. I responded by asking, "Did you understand what I said?  They responded, "Yes, but I had to focus and think about it!" I said, "Good, that is not a bad thing!"

Now, I do try to pace myself, because I do want to be understood, not for my sake so much, but for the Gospel. Then, about a year later, my teaser visited their children's congregation some distance away, and when they came back, this member said to me… "Ya know, pastor, I had a hard time understanding their pastor; he speaks so sloooow!" I had to giggle, whether fast or slow; the point remains that the Gospel is communicated, because that is the main thing that is the ongoing gift of the Holy Spirit.

That gift can take shape differently in each of us. Anyone who preaches brings something a little different to the table. This summer, you will have the excellent opportunity to hear the Word of God proclaimed by nine different preachers, thus this summer's Theme… “One Word, Many Voices.” I got the idea for this last Pentecost. It’s not just preachers who will bring the word; we will also have guest columnists. These guest columnists will provide unique perspectives and insights on ministries and events, enriching our understanding and appreciation of the work of St. John’s and the church. When it comes down to it, while there will be a variety of preachers, the Word they preach, the message at the heart of their sermons, and the news we hope to convey will be the same: the saving love of God given to us in Jesus Christ. It’s the same Holy Spirit-empowered message Peter preached some 2,000 years ago, and it will be the message the church will continue to bring to all. Blessings on your summer. May God bless you all, and I will see you in August.

Next Weekend—One Word, Many Voices
John 16:12-15
Preaching: Pastor Amy Zietlow, Associate to Bishop Busboom

Regular Worship Times
Saturdays, 5 PM  / Sundays, 8:30 and 10:30 AM
All worship services are also live-streamed on our Facebook page and YouTube channel (click on the LIVE tab for the latest videos).

New Member Opportunity
New members will be received the weekend of June 28/29 at all worship services. If you're interested in learning more about the membership process at St. John's, please contact Kerri. To be included in the next membership group, please let Kerri know by Monday, June 23.

Prayer Shawl Ministry
If you like to knit or crochet, come to a Prayer Shawl gathering. Enjoy a time of fellowship while creating prayer shawls, prayer squares or chemo caps for St. John's members, cancer centers, etc. New members are always welcome. For more information, contact Lynda Bogue, (309) 532-2083.

Faith On Tap 2025 Returns
Wednesdays, 6:30-8 PM
Mark your calendars for Faith on Tap—conversation and a cold beverage at a local brewery. Wear your nametag!
• June 25—Lil Beaver             
• July 2—Fiala Brothers  
• July 9—White Oak               
• July 16—Casper
• July 23—Analytical
• July 30—Keg Grove
• August 6—Destihl Beer Hall
In order to give the breweries approximate attendance counts for staffing purposes, please sign up at www.bit.ly/FOT25_RSVP if you plan to attend.
You can always change your mind—you are not committed.

Saturday Study
Saturday, 4-4:45 PM, Gathering Area
All are invited to a new study on the old testament book of Daniel. Contact Debbie Whelton, (309) 846-1965, for more information or just show up.

Monday Afternoon Study
Mondays, 2:30-3:30 PM, Loft
Everyone is welcome to a study on the book of Job, led by Gloria Jameson. Contact Gloria for more information.

Faith and Life Bible Study
Second, third, and fourth Wednesdays, 10 AM, Fellowship Hall
Join Pastor Lyn for a study on the book of James.

Friday Morning Men's Group
Fridays, 7:30-8:30 AM, Loft
The group is discussing Seeing Gray in a World of Black and White: Thoughts on Religion, Morality, and Politics. Contact: David Roehrig.

CPR Courses Offered at St. John's
Saturday, June 28, Junior High Room
• BLS Renewal—11:30 AM–2 PM (healthcare providers)—$65
• Heartsaver CPR/AED—11:30 AM–2 PM (workplace and community)—$65
St. John's members receive a 20% discount. Please contact Michelle Brown to register or for more information.

Lutheran Outdoor Ministries Center (LOMC) Summer Camp Sign-up
Sunday, July 13–Friday, July 18
Reserve your 6th-12th grade student's spot for camp at LOMC in Oregon, Illinois. Students are welcome to bring a friend! Fees will not be collected at this time. Reserve a spot at www.bit.ly/SJ_LOMC25 today. Cost will be available soon.

Save the Date—Back to School Party
Sunday, August 10, 12-2 PM
Incoming 6th-12th grade students are invited. Watch for more details to come.

Vacation Bible School Volunteer Opportunities

This year, there has been an overwhelming response to registration, and we have 100 children registered for VBS! Extra help is still needed before, during, and after VBS week, but the most urgent need is for adult or high school Crew Leaders and Floaters. The role of Crew Leader is important as they will shepherd children in their crews through each day, being sure they safely get to each station on time, while helping to make the week extra special and fun. No experience is necessary, but a willingness to dance and be silly with the children helps! Floaters should be willing to help wherever needed at the last minute, so flexibility is key! Please visit www.bit.ly/SJ_VBSVols25 to find the perfect opportunity for you! Please contact Amy with questions.

St. John’s Quilters
Tuesdays, 9:30-11:30 AM, Fellowship Hall
Everyone is invited to help make quilts for Lutheran World Relief and enjoy a time of fellowship. We also are in need of home sewers. Contact Marsha Johnson, (309) 299-9338, or Vicky Kramer, (309) 530-1604.

2026 Council Nominations
Nominations for Council Members are now being accepted. If you would like to nominate yourself or someone else from the congregation, please complete the application online at www.stjblm.org/council or pick up a paper copy from the Resource Counter in the Gathering Area. Completed applications should be sent to Steve BeMiller by August 17. Contact Steve, (309) 825-4962, for more information.

Global Refuge
Formerly Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Services, Global Refuge has recently become a St. John's mission partner. For the past four years, St. John's has served as regional hub for Global Refuge's annual Hope for the Holidays campaign by collecting greeting cards to share with newcomers in the United States. As a new mission partner, our goal is to educate the congregation on how this mission helps refugees and to promote ways to show additional support. For more information or to join the team, visit the Mission Outreach table in the Lobby or contact Betsy Huls, (309) 830-6450 or Janie Houchin, (309) 825-7208.

Faith In Action Volunteer Orientation
Tuesday, July 1, 1–2:30 PM
Faith In Action is in desperate need of drivers to help seniors in our community stay in their homes. They are experiencing twice the number of ride requests as this time last year. Contact Stacey or Mary, (309) 827-7780, to learn more or fill out the volunteer interest form at www.bnfia.org/post-3988.

Serve in our Community
Serve at Safe Harbor, Midwest Food Bank, or other local agency. Please visit www.stjblm.org/local to sign up or learn more about opportunities to give your time and talents.