News Updates
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Updating the Website
The St. John's Website is now being updated on a weekly basis. Surf the site and tell us what you think. Please send any suggestions, updates, additions to any of the Webmeisters (Bronwyn Frame, Coralie Lashbrook, Susan Masters,or Tim Muggli) care of church@stjohns-ames.org. Send complaints to Fr. Al. (Just kidding).
Tools for the Christian Journey (Sunday 9AM Adult Ed) - March Topic
Searching for God in the rubble of the earthquake in Haiti. Each session provides opportunities for learning and theologicial reflection on questions such as: Why doesn't God prevent such disasters? Where is God when a disaster strikes? What is our Christian response? Finally, a session on Haiti's life and history will help us better understand this country and her people.
CROP Walk Announcement
We need a parish coordinator for this year's CROP Walk to be held in October. The first meeting of the team is on Tuesday, March 17 at 7:00 pm at Cafe Diem. If you are willing to serve-even if you cannot make this first meeting, please let the rector know.
Small Study Group during Lent
"Living Buddha, Living Christ" by Thich Nhat Hanh
Lent is a time for refleting on our Christian journey. One part of this is seeing our place in the world and how our faith intersects the traditions of others. Thich Nhat Hanh is a Buddhist monk who has long promoted the commonality of Christianity and Buddhism. In his book, he explores the common perspectives of Christianity and Buddhism and, in so doing, celebrates our faith as Christians. Please contact Bill Gutowski if you are interested in joining this Lenten study group - it will also meet after the Lenten Wednesday evening Pot-luck dinner in the Parish Hall.
St. John's Rummage Sale
You are more than welcome to start bringing your 'treasures' to St. John's in preparation for the rummage sale. Office hours are 9-5 Monday through Friday, or you may leave your items downstairs in the gathering area. Please do not bring large items (for example, furniture) in until closer to the date as we have limited storage room. Please watch the bulletin for ongoing information about the rummage sale, and speak with Phyllis Heffron, chairperson, (231-0321 or 292-0514) if you have any questions. Proceeds from the rummage sale benefit St. John's choir.
Episcopal Relief and Development responds to Ice Storm in the Dakotas
On January 20th, 2010, the Episcopal Diocese of North and South Dakota were affected by a devastating ice storm and subsequent blizzard that left more than 14,000 people without power or access to clean drinking water. The indigenous communities of the Cheyenne River and Standing Rock Reservations were crippled by this storm. Some homes are still without electricity or running water. To support the ER and D's work in helping these communities during this difficult time, please visit www.er-d.org or call 1-800-334-7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to: Episcopal Relief and Development, PO Box 7058, Merrifield, VA 22116-7058
24/7 Prayer Vigil
As Father Al discussed at our annual meeting in January, St. John's is hosting a 24/7 prayer vigil for 2010. Please visit the website describing the inception of this idea and its ongoing goals at: www.campusamerica.org
EYC Meal Sign up
Please check out and sign up for an EYC Dinner for the sping semester. It is on the sign up table in the parish hall. Thank you for your offering of time and energy to support St. John's youth. If you have any questions about what to prepare, please check with Diane Bjorklund.
Emergency Residence Project
Volunteers are needed to make a meal for the Emergency Residence Project. You can sign up on the bulletin board posting that's on the right hand wall near the church entrance. Thie list for 2010 is up. For more information contact Ruth Swenson.
Help Needed! Monday Daisies
This important ministry involves transporting flowers selected from Sunday's altar arrangement to parishioners who are unable to attend Sunday services. You can arrange to deliver the flowers to homes or care facilities immediately after church or even the next morning. Delivering flowers and a smile lets our absent friends know they are remembered by St. John's. The sign up sheet - is on the bulletin board next to the main office and in the Parish Hall (check both lists to avoid double booking). For more information, please contact Ruth Swenson.
Coffee Hour – Both services
Thanks to all who are signing up for coffee hour. The church will furnish all supplies, food, and drink and written instructions for setup and cleanup are available. People are needed to set up, make coffee, serve and clean up. Signup sheets are in the Parish Hall.
Vestry Notice
The Vestry is considering doing a Faith alive weekend next year. Information is available at www.faithalive.org. We welcome input from the congregation in order to make this happen.
Annual Meeting Report/Parish Directory
If you were unable to attend the Annual Meeting and did not receive an Annual Report or a Parish Directory, they are in the Parish Hall Sunday 2/7/10, they will be in the office.
Friendships International request
Friendships International (FI) is a program to help orient international students and scholars at ISU to the Ames community by pairing them with Ames area residents (families or individuals) or with ISU American students. This is not a host family program as the international students and scholars do not live with their American friends, they simply meet occasionally as friends. FI hosts the first meeting between groups and asks the American friends to arrange at least one meeting. If interested, please go to: www.isso.iastate.edu/Programs for more information and registration packet.