Confirmation Sunday

I am, of course, just thrilled with yesterday morning’s worship experience. What a joy to see all those young people standing before the congregation, saying YES to the life of faith. The “creeds” were a powerful touch. You’ll find the names of the confirmands listed below. The excellence of the service reflected what I judge to have been a genuinely excellent confirmation season at St. Andrew’s.
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Sunday’s worship count was 1,002. Margie reports 101 kids in church school.
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THIS SUNDAY
May 6, 2007
Bruce Davis preaching:
“O BE CAREFUL”
The Virginia Tech, Rutgers and Duke Sermon
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After thinking all winter about hanging up my cleats, I had a TERRIFIC time last night--opening night of the men’s softball season. I threw pretty well, struck out a couple of guys, didn’t walk anybody, caught a line drive, got a couple of hits. I do love the game. I’ve always considered softball to be a good barometer of my general well being. I think I felt more comfortable throwing last night than I did at any point last season, which probably says something about my comfort level with Omaha and St. Andrew’s. The Men’s teams are back in action next Sunday evening, with 8:00 games on Kelly Fields 3 & 4. The Co-ed team plays tonight at 8:30, Kelly Field #5.
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There are still a few tickets available for this weekend’s SABBATH NIGHT LIVE. I’d suggest calling the office at this point: 431-8560. It’s going to be a lot of fun.
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ON SUNDAY MORNING, APRIL 29, WE WELCOMED THE FOLLOWING CONFIRMANDS TO MEMBERSHIP AT ST. ANDREW’S: BRANDON A.; BRANDON A.; KATIE A.; ALLY B.; LEXI C.; LEXI D.; MAX F.; MEGAN F.; ANDREW H.; DEVIN L.; LAUREN L.; CONNOR M.; RHETT M.; PATRICK M.; ALISSA N.; LEE O.; JORDAN P.; SARAH P.; ELLIE P.; J.P. P.; REBECCA R.; ERIN S.; MEGAN S.; DREW T.; SYDNEY T.; CAITLYN T.; KEVIN W.; ERIN W.; LUCAS W.; BRITTANY A.; NATHAN C.; CHRISTINA C.; TRIP D.; PAYTON G.; KELLY H.; EMMA K.; NICK M.; MARK O.; EMILY S.; AUSTIN S.; HOLLY T.
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Also Joining the Church on April 29:
BOB & JULIE S.
MIKE & VICKIE J. & their nephew, JOSEPH C.
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We received the following from HEIDI G.:
Help Support the Nebraska Platelet Disorder Support Association FUNdraiser at the Amazing Pizza Machine, 139th & S Plaza, Omaha, Tuesday, May 1st, 11 a.m. – 10 p.m. Just mention PDSA or Blood Disorders group and 10% of your order will be donated to the local PDSA chapter. For each buffet purchased you receive one hour free unlimited games! It’s not just pizza - there is a potato bar, salad bar, soup bar, taco cart, pasta bar, dessert bar - lots of food! A portion of the funds raised will be donated to National PDSA for ITP Research.
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PASTOR CHARLOTTE asks: Prayers for Oliver B., recently diagnosed with juvenile diabetes. Prayers for Terra, who has sustained a serious leg injury (granddaughter of Mary and Jerry E.). Prayers for Shony whose body rejected her kidney transplant; she has been placed on dialysis (friend of E.’s daughter). Prayers for Kebby F., recovering from a heart attack.

And we’ve had a couple of our members ask us to pray for JaVee S., who was injured in a vehicle accident yesterday and is intensive care at Creighton.
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Matthew 6:22-23: “The eye is the lamp of the body. So, if you eye is healthy, your whole body will be full of light; but if your eye is unhealthy, your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light in you is darkness, how great is the darkness!”
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BRD

The Culps

THIS SUNDAY is CONFIRMATION SUNDAY Nancy Davis preaching: “HERE I STAND.”We’ve have over forty young people involved in Confirmation this year. The way I understand it, something like 2/3rds (maybe 3/4ths) have chosen to be confirmed in the 9:15 service, the others at 10:45. I know you’ll want to be with us to be supportive of these young people as they celebrate an important milestone in their Christian journey.
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I was in the sanctuary Wednesday night, enjoying The Culps, which some of you will remember from Saturday Night Live. The Culps have been a regular presence in St. Andrew’s Sabbath Night Live Dinner Theatre. This year, the Culps are being backed up by a full band (thanks to Leon and the team), and Bobbi Culp is bringing in what I guess are some sisters to help with the vocals. Anyway, it’s a hoot. The Sabbath Night Live Dinner Theatre is next Friday and Saturday evening, here at St. Andrew’s. Tickets are available in the Rotunda.
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Charlotte M.t asks: Prayers for Robert M.r, starting chemotherapy for lung cancer (father of Carol M.). Prayers of sympathy for the family of Arthur R., in his recent passing (friend of Orv and Darlene S.). Prayers for Chad S., serving in Iraq (grandson of Orv and Darlene S.). Prayers for Orv S., that the pain will continue to improve. Prayers for Ryan P., recovering from emergency surgery (Kathy P.’s son).
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BRD

The Addams Family

THIS SUNDAY: CONFIRMATION SUNDAYNancy preaching in all three services: “HERE I STAND”May 6, Bruce is in the pulpit:“O BE CAREFUL: A Sermon On Christ And Culture”
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If you’ve been following the local news, you know there has been a rash of church break-ins in Omaha. St. Andrew’s has had some things go missing. On the advice of police, we’re going to be leaving fewer doors open during the slower times of day. As we can most easily monitor comings and goings from the office, you may sometimes find the Rotunda doors locked. If so, just come in through the Office/Gym entrance.
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While this day is hardly conducive to thinking about softball, the Men’s Teams are scheduled to begin play this Sunday evening. Again this year, we will field two teams. Last year, we were in the same division, which was a tad awkward. This year, we’re in different leagues. Both teams are scheduled for 9:00 games at the Kelly Fields, one playing on Field 3, the other on Field 4. The Kelly Fields are on Fort Street, around 122nd Street.
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BOB D. writes: On April 21st eleven St. Andrews youth and four adults were a part of “Global Youth Service Day”. We spent the day working at “BIG Garden Project” sites in various locations in north and south Omaha. The garden plots help provide fresh produce to low income families along with providing nutrition education. We all learned a lot and enjoyed helping communities in need. EDITOR’S NOTE: You’ll find a couple of pictures of this event on the web site. Go the home page: www.standrewsomaha.net, hit the YOUTH link. The photos are in the left hand cell.
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SABBATH NIGHT LIVE NEWS: THE ST. ANDREW'S RECKLESS ABANDON PLAYERS present - SABBATH NIGHT LIVE 2007. This years Dinner/Theater performance is on Friday, May 4th and Saturday, May 5th. We have sold out 4 years in a row, so don't miss out on the show of the year and get your tickets early. We will have an Italian Buffet dinner!! • We have once again written 100% of the skits and they include: Scooby Doo ; St. Peter Skits and his many visitors to Heaven; Charlie's Angels; Pizza with the Pastors (featuring Pastors Bruce and Nancy Davis); The Culps performing with the Sabbath Night Live Band!! The Youth Abandon Players are also performing Charlie Brown - You're in High School Now. • Adult Tickets $17; Child (11 and under) with Adult meal $12 Child (11 and under) Ticket with Kids Meal $10. Doors open at 6:00 PM; Dinner Buffet is at 6:15 PM; Show at 7:00 PM. Child Care is available I was up here last night, practicing the ADDAMS FAMILY AT PIZZA WITH THE PASTORS skit. It’s going to be a hoot. The Drama Team is in need of a high-back, rounded wicker chair, "Addams family style" for the dinner theater. If anyone has one that they wouldn't mind loaning us or knows of someone who does, please contact Karen B. GREETERS NEEDED FOR SNLVolunteers are needed to greet and take tickets on both evenings of May 4th and 5th for Sabbath Night Live. Four greeters are needed from 5:30 – 7:00 p.m. and Ticket Hosts from 5:30 – 7:30. Please contact Diana if you are able to volunteer.
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SINGLES TO JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTARReservations are being taken for the singles to attend Jesus Christ Superstar at the Orpheum Theater in June. Stop by the Singles table in the Rotunda on Sunday for more information.
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CHARLOTTE asks: Prayers or Kathy S., in critical condition following an auto accident (friend and neighbor of Georgia and Steve C.). Prayers for Ted L., hospitalized with pneumonia.
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Matthew 5:13, “You are the salt of the earth; but if salt has lost its taste, how can its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything, but is thrown out and trampled underfoot.”
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BRD

Dr. Baughman

THIS SUNDAY AT ST. ANDREW’S
April 29, 2007
CONFIRMATION SUNDAY
Nancy preaching: “HERE I STAND”
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Joined to the church on Sunday were DOUG B. & KRISTINE S.. They have a seven month old son named ZACH. We were blessed to participate in the baptism of MAKAYLA ELIZABETH M., infant daughter of Brian and Holly.
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Sunday’s worship count was 779, with 151 kiddies in the church school while we were upstairs worshiping.
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I was gratified that people seemed to get into the Susanna material. I learned to preach the ancient narratives from Dr. Charles Baughman, my Old Testament Professor at the St. Paul School of Theology. Charles made the old stories come alive, presenting the material with passion, joy and a touch of humor. I learned last week that Dr. Baughman died on Easter Sunday. My life was enriched by his.
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While I’ve been back in Omaha since Tuesday evening, I’m just today feeling kind of locked-in and back to work. If you’re looking for a neat place to “get away from it all,” let me highly recommend Islamorada in the Florida Keys. It’s about twenty miles south of Key Largo. Nancy and I got a great air fare from Omaha into Fort Lauderdale, then rented a car. There’s a wide range of places to stay in Islamorada; we rented a cottage for five nights. It was the first time in a couple of years that Nancy and I had gone someplace just to relax. It’s pretty amazing, watching the sun rise over the ocean in the morning, then literally walking across the road and watching the sun set over the ocean in the evening. I picked up a great sermon to go with this summer’s “Pirates Of The Galilean” Vacation Bible School, the working title is “Underwater Jesus.” I’ve got some fun sermons going in my head now, including “#42: What We Can Learn From The Faith Of Jackie Robinson,” which looks like it will happen in June.
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TRIVIA NIGHT was a lot of fun. Scores ranged from a high of 86 to a low of 53. Okay, it was still too heavy on Baby Boomer material. In retrospect, I should have jettisoned one of my Beach Boys questions and gone with Prince instead. Still too old? I tell you what, if you’ll burn me some music recorded in the last twenty years, I promise to listen to it.
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Softball season starts TONIGHT as our Co-Ed team begins its inaugural season in a 7:30 game at Kelly Fields, on Fort Street (122nd, if I remember correctly), Field #5. Our Men’s Teams go into action this coming Sunday evening.
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If you want to see something funny, Google in HALLELUJAH NUNS and hit the YouTube link. Dig the low-tech substitute for Power Point!
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Prayers of sympathy for Kevin O’. and his family, in the recent passing of his father. Prayers for Tammy W., who is terminally ill with cancer; starts chemotherapy on April 23rd; has been given 3 months to live (friend of Deb N.). Prayers for Pat W., experiencing health issues. Prayers for William R., preparing for surgery on April 25th (son of Corey and Shawna R.). Prayers or Kathy S., in critical condition following an auto accident (friend and neighbor of Georgia and Steve C.).
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Then Jesus saw the crowds, he went up the mountain; and after he sat down, his disciples came to him. Then he began to speak, and taught them, saying, “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled. Blessed are the merciful, for they will receive mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when people revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
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BRD

"Shooter"

THIS SUNDAY
8:00, 9:15 & 10:45
We’ve got a lot going on, including Volunteer Appreciation, a Ministry Minute annoucning the Luis Palau Heartland Festival, the always popular Ladies Ensemble, New Members, Baptisms—and Bruce preaching: “SUSANNA AND THE TWO ELDERS.”
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I went to the movies, yesterday, to see “Shooter.” The film was adapted from the Stephen Hunter book, “Point Of Impact.” Stephen Hunter writes richly textured action novels; “Point Of Impact” features one of my favorite figures of ontemporary fiction: Bob Lee Swagger. Bob Lee was a sniper in Vietnam, trying now to live a quiet and peaceable life--but circumstances keep drawing back to violence. Like his daddy, Earl (see “Hot Springs”), Bob Lee Swagger lives in the hill country of western Arkansas. I was disappointed that the film put Bob Lee in Wyoming instead. The film makers have turned a terrific novel into a so-so-film, but that’s not why I’m writing about “Shooter.”

I’ve been thinking a lot about the second amendment to the constitution. I don’t think George Washington and Thomas Jefferson would have wanted to take Bob Lee’s guns away from him. I certainly don’t. Bob is a hunter, a man trained in weaponry. But neither do I think George, Tom and other framers of the constitution could have conceived that a disturbed college kid would have over-the-counter or internet access to the kind of high powered weaponry that took the lives of students and faculty at Virginia Tech. I don’t know what the answer is, but I have to believe that a creative, caring nation can come to some reasonable position that honors the intent of the second amendment without making high tech guns available to people who could have no possible use for them other than to slaughter other human beings.
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PASTOR CHARLOTTE writes:

CPR & AED TRAINING will be held on May 10, only, 6 – 9:30 p.m. Sign-up sheet is on the Welcome Table in the Rotunda – please register by May 1st. Class will be given by the National Safety and Health Council; certification good for 2 years; cost will be $45/person, payable in advance.

NEW PRAYER STUDY to begin Wednesday, May 2nd at 6 p.m. in the Prayer Chapel – concluding in 9 weeks. We will study the book, Praying the Psalms, by Juanita R. PLEASE PLAN TO JOIN US.
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We have learned that KEVIN O.'S father has passed away and we extend our sympathy to Kevin, Christy and the entire family.

We’ve heard a good report on BROOKE W.’S surgery.

And it’s great to see DOROTHY H. up here today, folding bulletins!
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John 18:10-11: Then Simon Peter, who had a sword, drew it, struck the high priest’s slave, and cut off his right ear. The slave’s name was Malchus. Jesus said to Peter, “Put your sword back into its sheath. Am I not to drink the cup that the Father has given me?”
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BRD

God & Virginia Tech

I’ve been hearing very positive things about Sunday’s worship services. Cami gave me a worship count of 807. Add another 141 children in the church school and you have a strong Sunday-after-Easter. Many thanks to Leon and Charlotte for their leadership.
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THIS SUNDAYApril 22, 20078:00, 9:15 & 10:45Bruce Davis preaching:”SUSANNA AND THE TWO ELDERS”Among other things happening on Sunday morning: It’s VOLUNTEER APPRECIATION SUNDAY. We’ll be graced by the music of the Ladies Ensemble. In the Ministry Minute, we’ll be sharing information about the Luis Palau Heartland Festival coming to Omaha in July.*Heather Doll just took the monthly newsletter to the post office. (Today is Heather’s birthday: Happy Birthday Heather!) Be looking for the newsletter in your mailbox, but be advised the preaching schedule has already been revised.
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SABBATH NIGHT LIVE TICKETS ARE GOING FAST!!! Don't Delay, get your tickets today...THE ST. ANDREW'S RECKLESS ABANDON PLAYERS present - SABBATH NIGHT LIVE 2007. This years Dinner/Theater performance is on Friday, May 4th and Saturday, May 5th. Tickets will be available April 1st in the Rotunda. We have sold out 4 years in a row, so don't miss out on the show of the year and get your tickets early. We will have an Italian Buffet dinner!!
• We have once again written 100% of the skits and they include: Scooby Doo ; St. Peter Skits and his many visitors to Heaven; Charlie's Angels; Pizza with the Pastors (featuring Pastors Bruce and Nancy Davis); The Culps performing with the Sabbath Night Live Band!! The Youth Abandon Players are also performing Charlie Brown - You're in High School Now.
• Adult Tickets $17; Child (11 and under) with Adult meal $12 Child (11 and under) Ticket with Kids Meal $10. Doors open at 6:00 PM; Dinner Buffet is at 6:15 PM; Show at 7:00 PM. Child Care is available Buy your tickets EARLY!!
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PATTI BETH H. writes: Are you interested in a fun way to get to know some of the ladies within the church? Patience Circle is a group of women, some of whom have young children, that meets the 2nd Wednesday morning of each month. Childcare is provided. For more information contact Marcey R. or join us at 9:30 on May 9t in room LL4. Summer meetings will consist of outdoor activities with the children at the park. More details to follow.
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VBS NEEDS: We are in need of old white sheets and old CD’s you no longer want. If you have these to donate, please drop them by the church office during the next week. Thanks! VBS team!
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The news from Virginia is sad beyond description. I know some will ask, “How can such a thing happen?” Truth is, given our violence-saturated culture, I’m kind of surprised it doesn’t happen more often. Others will say, “How can God permit such a thing?” Here's how I see it: I have this image of a loving God pouring grace upon grace into this broken, sinful, psychotic world; God’s grace being the only thing keeping us from degenerating into the perfect Darwinian state: all against all. I hear people say the world would be better off without Jesus; that Christianity is a relic. In my sense of the human condition, the alternative to the God preached in the Judeo-Christian faith is an endless night of chaos. If this is all there is, why NOT kill yourself and everyone within gunshot range?--at least this way, you go out with a bang and make the news. Jesus wept.
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Charlotte asks: Prayers of sympathy for the families of all who were killed on the Virginia Tech campus this past week. Prayers of healing for those who were wounded on the Virginia Tech campus this past week. Prayers for Brooke W., preparing for surgery on April 18th (daughter of Judy and Jeff W.). Prayers of sympathy for the family and friends of Kenneth C., in his recent passing (Shirley C.’s brother). Prayers for Eleanor D., recovering from wrist surgery. Prayers of sympathy for the family of Volney A., in his recent passing (father of Amy B.). Prayers for Marv C., complications following surgery (Margie W.’s brother). Prayers for the Fedeler family (requested by Jean S.). Prayers for Dorothy H., released from the hospital. Prayers for Joan M., released from the hospital. Prayers of joy for Cody & Connie W., in the recent birth of a son, Xavier (grandson of Kim W. and Perry E.; great-grandson of Leroy & Sandy M.r). Prayers for Dave W., preparing for surgery and chemotherapy treatments.
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Isaiah 29:15-16: Ha! You who hide a plan too deep for the Lord, whose deeds are in the dark, and who say, “Who sees us? Who knows us?” You turn things upside down! Shall the potter be regarded as the clay? Shall the thing made say of its maker, “He did not make me”; or the thing formed say of the one who formed it, “He has no understanding?”
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BRD

The Day After

Easter Sunday 2007 was a magnificent experience for the lead pastors. Wow.
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THIS SUNDAY, April 15:
8:00, REV. CHARLOTTE MALLOTT preaching.
9:15 & 10:45, LEON ADAMS & FRIENDS offer a morning of inspiration,

including a message from Brother Leon, himself!
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For those new to the congregation, Pastor Charlotte is a retired United Methodist pastor, serving on our staff in the role of pastoral care coordinator. Leon Adams, our music director, is one of the most prominent musicians in the Omaha area. Some of you will know him from The Confidentials. He is also a deeply Christian man, who has been leading church music since his childhood. Leon recently announced he is getting married this summer. This Sunday should be a treat.
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April 22, Bruce preaching:
“SUSANNA & THE TWO ELDERS”
And it’s Volunteer Appreciation Sunday!
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The Easter Worship Count: 8:00: 141; 9:15: 1,014; 10:45: 509. Total for Easter Sunday: 1,654. Margie reports another 158 kiddies in Church School. We had 175 people out for Maundy Thursday. Charlotte is guesstimating we had around 100 in attendance on Good Friday, but no one seems to have officially counted.
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A-MAIL will be on hiatus for the next week as the editor is out of town.
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MARY K. joined the church on Easter Sunday. Mary does medical transcription for Alegent Health
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THE ST. ANDREW'S RECKLESS ABANDON PLAYERS present - SABBATH NIGHT LIVE 2007. This years Dinner/Theater performance is on Friday, May 4th and Saturday, May 5th. Tickets will be available April 1st in the Rotunda. We have sold out 4 years in a row, so don't miss out on the show of the year and get your tickets early. We have once again written 100% of the skits and they include: Scooby Doo, Charlie's Angels, Pizza with the Pastors (featuring Pastors Bruce and Nancy Davis), and The Culps, to name a few. The Youth Abandon Players are also performing Charlie Brown - You're in High School Now.
Adult Tickets $17; Child (11 and under) with Adult meal $12
Child (11 and under) Ticket with Kids Meal $10
Doors open at 6:00 PM; Dinner is at 6:30 PM; Show at 7:00 PM
Child Care is available
BUY YOUR TICKETS EARLY!!
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Did you know (I think this is right) that every time you click on our web site: www.standrewsomaha.net, it helps move St. Andrew’s up in the GOOGLE lineup. A few months ago, we weren’t even on the first page of St. Andrew’s United Methodist Churches; this morning, we’re moved ahead of St. Andrew’s UMC’s in Texas and Alabama, so that we come up third, after congregations in Plano, Texas, and Littleton, Colorado.
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DIANE M. writes: Hope Circle will be flipping pancakes for our church family on Sunday the 15th..join us for breakfast! And, in spite of 20 degree weather I'm sure Spring is in the near future!! Our UMW group is taking orders for bedding flowers, look for order blanks in the rotunda. Profits from this project fund the $500 scholarship that the women give to one of our seniors each spring.
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WOMEN OF ST. ANDREWS:
Need a break? Want to enjoy an evening of fellowship with other women? How about listening to an exciting speaker? Then come join us on Tuesday, April 17th at 7:00PM. Our speaker will be Dr. Diana Doyle. The subject will be women’s heart health-a topic that has been getting a lot of press lately. Save the date-invite a friend and come for an evening of food and fellowship and leave with information on keeping you heart healthy.
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FROM DIANA F.

DISCIPLE LITE - ROMANS
Study Paul’s letter to the Romans. Explore several key themes, including: Paul’s emphasis on communal salvation, the centrality of God’s righteousness, and the implication of Paul’s speaking as a Jew with a message addressed to the Gentiles. This nine-week study will be offered on Wednesdays, from 6 – 7 p.m. beginning April 11. Corey Rector will facilitate this study in Lower Level 4.

DIVORCED? SEPARATED?
Divorce and separation are among life’s most difficult and painful experiences. You need the help and encouragement of others as you attempt to heal and restore balance to your life. A DivorceCare group is a special place of encouragement, information and sharing. It provides you with an ongoing support team as you deal with the issues surrounding your separation or divorce. DivorceCare is offered at St. Andrew’s on Mondays at 6:30 p.m.

NOT-SO-DESPARATE HOUSEWIVES
This is the study the Monday Morning Women’s Study Group will start on April 16 at 9 a.m. Contact Diana to register.
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FROM JOHN LUDDY:
What: Kicks For a Cure – Women’s Soccer exhibition (high school and collegiate teams)
When: Saturday April 21st at Creighton’s Morrison Stadium – 11am – 8pm
Kicks For a Cure and is an annual women’s soccer exhibition with the goal to raise research funds and awareness for all forms of women’s cancer. The event is hosted by Creighton University at Morrison Stadium, one of the top soccer venues in the country. In its inaugural year in 2006, over $100,000 was raised to help further research at the UNMC Eppley Cancer Center and the Hereditary Cancer Center at Creighton University. This year’s event is scheduled for Saturday April 21st. Tickets are relatively inexpensive at $8 for Adults and $5 for kids to see some great women’s soccer and support a great cause. Admission is good for the day with the first match at 11am - Omaha Westside vs. Millard North. Last match of the day is at 6pm – Creighton University vs. Marquette University. Check the website at www.kicksforacure.org for more information and game schedule.
Hope to see you there! – John & Kathy L.
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John 20:24-29
But Thomas (who was called the Twin), one of the twelve, was not with them when Jesus came. So the other disciples told him, “We have seen the Lord.” But he said to them, “Unless I see the mark of the nails in his hands, and put my finger in the mark of the nails and my hand in his side, I will not believe. A week later his disciples were again in the house, and Thomas was with them. Although the doors were shut, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you.” Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here and see my hands. Reach out you hand and put it in my side. Do not doubt but believe.” Thomas answered him, “My Lord and my God!” Jesus said to him, “Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have come to believe.”
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BRD

HERE WE GO!

Here we go! Tonight, the Drama Team leads our MAUNDY THURSDAY remembrance of the Last Supper, starting at 7:00. Tomorrow at noon, we will gather to read the GOOD FRIDAY/Passion scriptures, with appropriate liturgy and hymns. And, of course, this Sunday is EASTER. We’re about as ready as we can get, and are looking forward to sharing the experience with you and any you will bring.
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I should mention how the services will be ordered on Sunday. We’ll sing arguably the greatest of the Easter hymns, “Christ The Lord Is Risen Today,” in all three services. Per usual, the 9:15 & 10:45 hours will have more “contemporary” elements than 8:00, but the blend will include an “Ode To Joy” medley and other timeless expressions of resurrection faith. (At 8:00, "Ode To Joy" is out, "He Lives" is in.) Nancy and I have a message we hope will speak to veteran believers, the newest of seekers, and people at various places in between. Maybe it’s been a long time since you’re been in the House of God. Please know we would love to have you with us on Resurrection Sunday!
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Nancy and I will be out of town for a week, starting next Tuesday. This will be the first Sunday we’ve been out of Omaha together since June of last year. In spinning options around for the 22nd, we came up with a winner. REV. CHARLOTTE MALLOTT will preach in the 8:00 service. We’re calling the 9:15 & 10:45 services, “LEON’S TURN”—as in Leon Adams, our music director. Leon has put together a service featuring members of the music department, with the man himself bringing a message.
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Having lived in the Ozarks for seven years, it was hard for me to imagine Dana Altman at Arkansas. I have rarely seen anyone look more uncomfortable at a press conference than Altman while Frank Broyles was leading the PIG SOOEY yell. It’s a different world down there. *
We’ve posted some photos from the WORSHIP CELEBRATION OF ST. ANDREW’S NICARAGUA on the web site: www.standrewsomaha.net. Having reached the home page, hit the San Andres Link.
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Our next PIZZA WITH THE PASTORS is Sunday evening, April 22, 5:00-6:30. This event is designed for people moving toward membership at St. Andrew’s. Sign up on Sunday morning in the Rotunda or e-mail Diana F., so we’ll know how much pizza to order.
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I suppose there’s still time to plug into the once-postponed TRIVIA NIGHT, rescheduled for Saturday evening, April 21. You could call the office or e-mail Judy H. and get the full skinny.
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I understand SABBATH NIGHT LIVE ticket sales are off to a great start. Our annual Dinner Theatre is scheduled for the first weekend in May, Friday and Saturday evenings. Check out the SNL table in the Rotunda for complete information.
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CHARLOTTE MALLOTT asks: Prayers for Leyon, experiencing health issues; pray, also, for his wife, Bea (Sharon K.’s brother and sister-in-law). Prayers for Durward P., experiencing health issues (Patrick P.’s grandfather).
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John 3:16, “For God so loved the world that he gave his only son, that whosover believeth in him might not perish but have eternal life.”
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RD

MLBummer

It’s pretty rare to call a staff meeting EXCITING, but I got excited today, talking about our plans for Easter Sunday. What a privilege it is to proclaim the resurrection at St. Andrew's! In the imagery of the Parable of the Great Feast, won’t you please help fill our house by offering generous invitations to attend this, our most High and Holy day of the year?
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I’m kind of bummed out at Major League Baseball right now. Being a big St. Louis Cardinals fan, the move from Missouri to Nebraska was made more palatable by knowing I could follow the Cards on cable TV, via the Major League Baseball package. As I understand it, to get the service this season, I’m going to have to switch to satellite. I’ve never had satellite television before. Do any of you have it? Does it actually work?
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WOMEN OF ST. ANDREWS:
Need a break? Want to enjoy an evening of fellowship with other women? How about listening to an exciting speaker? Then come join us on Tuesday, April 17th at 7:00PM. Our speaker will be Dr. Diana Doyle. The subject will be women’s heart health-a topic that has been getting a lot of press lately. Save the date-invite a friend and come for an evening of food and fellowship and leave with information on keeping you heart healthy.
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MAUNDY THURSDAY, 7:00
“WERE YOU THERE?”
Presented By The St. Andrew’s Drama Ministry

GOOD FRIDAY, Noon
A Short Service of Scripture and Hymns

SATURDAY MORNING, 10:00
EASTER EGG HUNT
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We’re working on the newsletter this week, so if you have material to submit, please get it to us right away.
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PLEASE PRAY: For the family of Parker R., age 20, in his tragic passing. (College classmate of Casey L.; parents dear friends of John L. and Laurel P.)
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PASTOR CHARLOTTE asks: Prayers for Dorothy H., hospitalized, due to a stroke. Prayers for Dorothy R., dealing with infection following eye surgery.
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Hebrews 1:1-3, Long ago God spoke to our ancestors in many and various ways by the prophets, but in these last days he has spoken to us by a Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, through whom he also created the worlds. He is the reflection of God’s glory and the exact imprint of God’s very being, and he sustains all things by his powerful word.

BRD

HOLY WEEK

Our newest members are PATRICK & ERIN L. Patrick is the marketing director for Lancer Hockey. Erin is a pediatrician with Children’s Physicians. They have two children: PJ age 5 and Micah age 2.
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Palm Sunday was appropriately joyful! We had kids processing in and waving palm branches at 9:15 & 10:45. I always love hearing the church shout HOSANNA! The music was superb. Jeff H. gave us a classical turn that was very well received. Greg W.’s “The Holy City” was a treat for those gathered at 8:00. The combined St. Andrew’s Singers and Youth Choir offered a rousing anthem in the later services. The Bells are always a blessing and add so much to our communion experience. I am very impressed by the continued improvement of the Youth Praise Band, which offered pre-service music at 9:15 & 10:45. Our worship count was 1,023.
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HOLY WEEK CONTINUES: MAUNDY THURSDAY, 7:00“WERE YOU THERE?”Presented By The St. Andrew’s Drama MinistryGOOD FRIDAY, Noon A Short Service of Scripture and Hymns SATURDAY MORNING, 10:00 EASTER EGG HUNT (See article below) EASTER SUNDAY April 8, 2007 Bruce & Nancy preaching:”THE PARABLE OF THE SON”
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THERE WILL BE NO CHILDREN’S CHOIR PRACTICE FOR ANY OF THE CHOIRS ON WEDNESDAY, APRIL 4.
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I’m just back from Bergen Mercy Hospital. Dorothy H. is in ICU, scheduled for surgery at 3:00. Dorothy is one of the great women of this congregation and we ask your prayers for her and Rey in a health crisis.
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Nancy and Bob are doing something I see as pretty amazing. They are having individual sessions with each of our 40-some confirmation youths and their families. What a great idea.
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We passed a financial milestone this week, as the debt is now under the four million dollar mark. This is very gratifying.
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WE ARE LOOKING FOR SOMEONE WHO HAS A BEAUTIFUL HANDWRITING OR WHO IS TRAINED IN CALIGRAPHY TO DO THE CONFIRMATION CERTIFICATES AND BIBLES. ANYONE WHO HAS THIS SKILL AND IS WILLING TO DO THIS CAN CONTACT NANCY. THANKS.
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CALLING ALL EASTER EGG HUNTERS!! COME AND BRING YOUR FRIENDS TO ST. ANDREW’S THIS SATURDAY, APRIL 7TH AT 10:00 A.M. WE WILL HAVE SINGING, DO CRAFTS AND OF COURSE, HUNT FOR EASTER EGGS! ALL WE ASK IS THAT EACH CHILD PARTICIPATING BRING 12 FILLED PLASTIC EGGS TO SHARE IN THE HUNT. BE SURE TO BRING YOUR EASTER BASKET OR A SACK TO PUT YOUR 12 EGGS IN WHEN YOU FIND THEM ON THE HUNT. ANY MIDDLE SCHOOLERS OR HIGH SCHOOLERS THAT WOULD LIKE TO COME AND HIDE THE EGGS FOR THE YOUNGER KIDS, REPORT TO MARGIE OR BOB AT 9:45 ON SATURDAY OUTSIDE THE FAMILY LIFE CENTER.

PASTOR CHARLOTTE asks: Prayers for Bill D., Grant, NE, recently diagnosed with cancer (Joel L.’s brother-in-law; Lori S.’s uncle). Prayers for Melissa S., hospitalized (Steve and Kit S.’s daughter). Prayers for Wesley W., recovering from an auto accident (Margie W.’s son).
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MARK 12:1-11, Then he began to speak to them in parables. “A man planted a vineyard, put a fence around it, dug a pit for the wine press, and built a watchtower; then he leased it to tenants and went to another country. When the season came, he sent a servant to the tenants to collect from them his share of the vineyard. But they seized him, and beat him, and sent him away empty-handed. And again he sent another servant to them, this one they beat over the head and insulted. Then he sent another, and that one they killed. And so it was with many others; some they beat, and others they killed. He had still one other, a beloved son. Finally he sent him to them, saying, ‘They will respect my son.’ But those tenants said to one another, ‘This is the heir, come, let us kill him, and the inheritance will be ours.’ So they seized him, killed him, and threw him out of the vineyard. And what then will the owner of the vineyard do? He will come and destroy the tenants and give the vineyard to others. Have you not read this scripture: ‘The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone; this was the Lord’s doing, and it is amazing in our eyes’?”
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BRD