NOVEMBER 2025 - News & Views
A Message From Pastor Jen
LEAVING A LEGACY
We have just come from a month, really a year, of celebrating Redeemer’s 125thAnniversary. What a blessing to look back and remember the history of the church as it has shaped who we are as a church today. Our celebrations are a good reminder to us that God encourages us to fix our eyes on the things that endure. The original founders of Redeemer even named the church so because they wanted the reminder to keep their eyes fixed on Jesus our Redeemer. Their vision of focusing forward on the one thing or person that endures has helped to carry the church through the ups and downs of the past 125 years. This is a good reminder to us to keep the vision of the church (and our very own lives) focused on what is eternal rather than temporary. In light of eternity, a vision enables us to leave a legacy rather than just an inheritance.
There is a huge difference between a legacy and an inheritance. An inheritance is something we leave to our family or loved ones, but it eventually fades or disappears. A legacy is something we leave in our family and loved ones and is forever impacting generations. Consider these differences:
Inheritance
- Something you give to others
- Temporarily brings happiness
- Eventually fades as it is spent
- Temporary and material
Legacy
1. Something you instill in others
2. Permanently transforms someone
3. Lives on long after you die
4. Eternal and of lasting value
At Redeemer, as in our own lives, let us make it our mission as we continue to move forward to keep our eyes fixed on what is eternal and lasting. May God give us vision to see beyond the things of this world and to know that everything we say and do now is to continue leaving a legacy of our Redeemer’s love and sacrifice and service for the sake of others spending eternity with Him. Amen.
“We will not hide them [the Lord’s teachings v. 1] from our children; we will tell to the coming generation the glorious deeds of the Lord, and his strength, and the wonders that he has done.” Psalm 78:4
Help with Hill Country Flood Relief!
A team from Redeemer is headed to the Hill Country November 14-15th to help with flood relief in Burnet, TX. Team coordinators for Redeemer are Charlie Luensmann and Russell Reinhard. A local church is providing the team’s overnight accommodation. There are more than 400 homes that need sheet rock repair among other things. Interested in serving? Call or email the church office (rucczuehl@yahoo.com) with name(s), phone number and email. You will be contacted by our team leaders with more information. Friends of Redeemer are always welcome to join the team!
IN OUR PRAYERS
Yoshiko Miyasaka, Eddie Moore, Alice Valle, Ellie Potts, Lillian Brietzke, Leroy Albrecht
IN SYMPATHY
Family of Charlie Meckel
Happy Wedding Anniversary
Harry & Christy Voigt – 53 years
Carl & Pam Griffin – 40 years
Steve & Carolyn Steinmetz - 58 years
Please continue helping us to give special recognition and to honor these wonderful mile markers. If you know of someone going to be married 25, 40, 50 or more years, please let the Church Office know for that month’s newsletter.
DOMINOES & LUNCH
The next dominoes & lunch will be Wednesday, November 12, 2025 at 10:00 A.M. We will celebrate with a Thanksgiving Dinner. Come; enjoy wonderful food and great fellowship!
POTLUCK FELLOWSHIP BREAKFAST
Bring your favorite breakfast food to share and join in fellowship around food, faith & church family!
9:15-10:15 A.M.
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 16TH
Adult Bible Study Class is Studying the Book of Revelation
Join us Sunday mornings beginning at 9AM to study the mysterious and profound book of Revelation in the Bible! Class led by Pastor Jennifer & Michele Taylor.
NAVIGATING THE CAREGIVING JOURNEY WITH COMPASSION
Caring for a loved one with increasing needs as they age is often filled with challenges, and we want you to know that you are not walking alone. Our church family is here to support you.
You are warmly invited to a special presentation on November 30, 2025, where you can find guidance, support, and clarity on this emotional journey.
Debbie Wiegand, a Senior Living Consultant and Redeemer Church member, will lead a conversation exploring the complexities of caregiving in a space of gentle understanding and mutual support. We will discuss everything from shifts in a loved one's behavior to the profound emotional toll on caregivers.
This gathering will offer a compassionate and honest look at how to recognize when a loved one's needs may require additional professional support. Debbie will cover key indicators, from safety risks to the emotional impact on caregivers, helping you discern the process of transitions from in-home support to more progressive care solutions.
Consider joining us for this sensitive time of connection. You will leave with practical insights, a greater sense of preparedness for difficult transitions, and the comfort of connecting with others who truly understand your experience.
The presentation will be held on Sunday, November 30 at 9:15 A.M. in the back Social Hall.
Here is a little more information about Debbie Wiegand. She has spent 35+ years in the senior living space, serving older adults. She works with families, care partners and leaders in Skilled Nursing, Assisted Living, Home Health, and Memory Care organizations. She has led advancements in organizational redesign initiatives for senior living through education, regulatory advancement, and operational & environmental design during her career. As life unfolded, her passion for better outcomes in senior living become personal by becoming one of the millions of family caregivers impacted by those living with dementia. Debbie believes, “Life must be infused with purpose and dignity while seeking opportunities to fully engage in life".
Thanksgiving Worship & Pie Social
Join us and invite the community to gather for worship to give God thanks on Tuesday, November 25th at 6:30 P.M. at St. John Lutheran Church in Marion. Please bring a pie to share for the social following the service.
THE CHOSEN: SERIES THREE
Come and join us as we watch The Chosen and experience the scriptures like you have never done before!
Showings for November from 4-6PM
Nov 2 — Two by Two & Physician, Heal Yourself
Nov 16 — Clean: Part 1 & Part 2
Nov 30 — Intensity in Tent City & Ears to Hear
Redeemer United Church Council Meeting Minutes – Condensed - September 18, 2025
CALL TO ORDER
Mike Schulze called the meeting to order.
In attendance were Pastor Jennifer Gold, Mike Schulze, Jessica Kurz, Steve Gangawer, Diane Hunter, Cody Canham, Lora Pape, Derek Pawlik and Audrey Badders.
Not in attendance were Tammy Haecker and Ann Lindley.
OPENING PRAYER
Jessica Kurz gave the opening prayer.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES FROM AUGUST 2025 COUNCIL MEETING
Minutes from August 21, 2025, meeting were approved with minor changes upon motion
• Meeting date was listed as August 20, 2025; changed to September 18, 2025.
PASTOR’S REPORT
Pastor Jennifer presented her Pastor’s Report
Of note:
1. There will be a joint 2025 Thanksgiving service, hosted by St. John Lutheran Church in Marion
held on Tuesday, November 25, 2025.
2. Women’s Retreat Update: Slumber Falls reservation has been cancelled as the accommodations are not conducive for a women’s retreat. Retreat will be held at
Redeemer. Off-site retreat locations will be considered in the future.
3. A Caregiver’s Support Class will be held at Redeemer on Sunday, November 30, from
9:15–10:15.
4. Pastor Jen will be attending the NALC Pastor’s Retreat October 21-23, 2025.
5. Rev. Mark Braaten will be a guest presenter on the Book of Revelation at Redeemer on
December 7, 2025 during the Sunday school hour.
FINANCIAL REPORTS
Memorial Fund Report(as of 8/31/2025)
Balance of $95,720.47
Building Fund Report(as of 8/31/2025)
Balance of $40,611.64
Treasurer’s Report(as of 8/31/2025)
Checking Account - $13,706
Money Market Account - $75,274
Certificate of Deposit - $50,000
Balance of $138,980
OTHER COUNCIL REPORTS
Board of Christian Education (BCE)
Of note:
1. Glen & Beverly Muenchow will be helping with the kids’ music until the Harvest Festival.
2. Janice Gangawer and Ashley Pawlik will be leading the Christmas Pageant.
3. Great job to Kayla Sweet and youth at the last Youth Sunday!
Property & Maintenance Report
Of note:
More air filters need to be ordered
Derek will look into additional signage for restrooms
EXISTING BUSINESS
125th Anniversary Committee continues to plan and make preparations for the celebration. Important Upcoming Dates:
October 12(10/14/1900) – 125th Anniversary celebration with worship, invited guests (former pastors), German choir from New Braunfels, appetizers and desserts after worship
October 26 – Anniversary celebration continuation at Harvest Festival.
Harvest Festival
1. Harvest Festival will be held on October 26, 2025. Help will be needed to set up on
Saturday, October 25th.
2. It was decided that all Council members donate $100 to the raffle.
Church Pew Repairs
Backs of the church pews continue to split/crack. Steve is looking into repair options.
Inactive Membership Letter
A letter from the Council President and Vice President will be sent beginning in November to all members who have not
1) taken Communion,
2) supported the church, and
3) attended service for one (1) year.
NEW BUSINESS
Security Review
Council members will continue to lock the doors after service has started (approximately 10:45 am or a little later). Derek Pawlik will look into a Ring camera as another level of security.
Flood Work Event
Charlie Luensmann and Russell Reinhard are working on a date (2–3-day event). They will be doing sheet rock and flooring (approximately 400 homes affected). They are currently collecting names of volunteers.
CALENDAR REVIEW
1. Sunday, October 12, 2025 – 125th Anniversary with Reception after church
2. Thursday, October 16, 2025 – Next Council Meeting
3. Sunday, October 19, 2025 – Potluck Breakfast at 9:15 am
4. Sunday, October 26, 2025 – Harvest Festival
CLOSING PRAYER
Pastor Jennifer gave the closing prayer.
ADJOURN
The meeting was adjourned.
SCRIPTURE LESSONS FOR NOVEMBER
November 2 – All Saints Day
- Revelation 7 (2-8) 9-17
- Psalm 149
- I John 3:1-3
- Matthew 5:1-12
November 9 – 22nd Sunday after Pentecost
- Exodus 3:1-15
- Psalm 148
- II Thessalonians 2:1-8, 13-17
- Luke 20:27-40
November 16 – 23rd Sunday after Pentecost
- Malachi 4:1-6
- Psalm 98
- II Thessalonians 3:(1-5) 6-13
- Luke 21:5-28 (29-36)
November 23 – Totenfest
- Malachi 3:13-18
- Psalm 95:1-7a or 46
- Colossians 1:13-20
- Luke 23:27-43
November 27 – Thanksgiving Day
- Deuteronomy 26:1-11
- Psalm 100
- Philippians 4:4-9
- John 6:25-35
November 30 – First Sunday of Advent
- Isaiah 2:1-5
- Psalm 122
- Romans 13 (8-10) 11-14
- Matthew 24:36-44
WOMEN’S FELLOWSHIP
Please join us for our November 12thThanksgiving Domino/Sr. Luncheon. Games begin at 10:00 am and lunch is served at 12:00 pm. It is very appreciated to those who always bring sides.
Thank you who donated Ball Jars for our country store for canning.
Our Maker’s Market is November 22, 2025. Please come to support our crafters.
-Totenfest in Worship – Sunday, November 23
This is the Sunday that Redeemer remembers in worship the saints who have died since last year’s Totenfest. Families of those loved ones are encouraged to come to worship and you will receive the candle that is lit during the service in your loved one’s memory.
“Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his faithful ones.” Psalm 116:15
November Birthdays
02-Russell Luddeke, Deborah Wiegand
06-Terry Canham
07-Parker Missildine
09-Darren Luensmann, Gwynne Cortes
10-Sophia Sheffield
11-Cynthia Davis
13-Rebecca Guenther
14-Laura Luensmann
15-Bonnie Kunde
16-Eric Schulze, Dennis Kucherka
17-Kade Clark
18-Gladys Rowley
19-Jerald Wieters, Brent Reininger, Kaitlyn Rackley
20-DeAnne Hulett, Garrett Schulze, Zane Gold
22-Trace Weber, Whitney Niles, Tanya Rackley
23-Diana Myers, Monica Kunde
25-Sherry Bielke, Jerry Beckmann, Konner Harborth, Dorothy (Reiley) Luensmann
26-Mariann Bielke, Kellie Bielke, Michael Rosebrock, John Klein, Glen Muenchow
29-Wayne Koltermann, Phyllis Luensmann, Brody Nichols
30-Avery Nelson
November Wedding Anniversaries
04-Harry & Christy Voigt
05-Victor & Maryjo Contreras
09-Carl & Pam Griffin
11-Steven & Carolyn Steinmetz
18-Morgan & Colt Mulanax
25-Adam & Heather Lampman
26-Derek & Ashly Pawlik
MEMBERS IN SERVICE
ATTENTION Ushers and Greeters: Please arrive at least 30 minutes prior to the Church Service. (Two of the Ushers will hand out bulletins and the other one will be greeter.)
Bulletin Cost: $10.00. Please drop off your payment in the church office or place in the offering plate with notation for bulletins.
November 2, 2025 – Holy Communion
USHERS/GREETER – Church Council
LITURGIST – Troy Meckel
ACOLYTES – Finn Rackley & Cade Kurz
ALTAR FLOWERS – Carol Lilie & family
SIDE TABLE FLOWERS – Victor & MaryJo Contreras
BULLETINS – Gloria Clark
November 9, 2025 – Youth Led Worship
USHERS/GREETER – Youth
LITURGISTS – Youth
ACOLYTES – Reese Thayne & Ryleigh Hulett
ALTAR FLOWERS – Donna Luensmann
BULLETINS – Betty Surman
November 16, 2025
USHERS/GREETERS – Andrea & Jackson Missildine & Laurie Leach
LITURGIST – Jeanne Rawe
ACOLYTES – Parker Missildine & Breelynn Fennell-Leach
ALTAR FLOWERS – Harry & Christy Voigt
BULLETINS – Gerald & Betty Kriewald
November 23, 2025 - Totenfest
USHERS/GREETER – Michael, Kayla & Kyle Sweet
LITURGIST – open
ACOLYTES – Matthew Sweet & Ella Maierhofer
ALTAR FLOWERS – Tracy & Jackie Meek
BULLETINS – Leroy & Vicki Lassere
November 30, 2025
USHERS/GREETERS – Greg & DonAnne Williford & Janice Gangawer
LITURGIST – open
ACOLYTES – Reese Thayne & Finn Rackley
ALTAR FLOWERS – open
BULLETINS – Kutach family
COLLECTION OF NON-PERISHABLE ITEMS FOR FOOD PANTRY
Some suggested donations needed…
Canned tuna Canned Chicken
Potted meat Mac & Cheese
Spaghetti sauce Pasta
Cereal Toiletries
Canned fruit Cleaning Supplies
Canned corn Juice
Canned vegetables Powdered Milk
Peanut butter Applesauce
Donations are always being received and can be placed in our storage room along the office hallway.
DATES TO REMEMBER....
Sunday, November 2nd
9:15 A.M. – Sunday School
Sunday, November 9th
9:15 A.M. – Sunday School
10:30 A.M. – Youth Led Worship
4-6:00 P.M. – Confirmation II
Sunday, November 16th
9:15 A.M. – Sunday School & Potluck Breakfast
Sunday, November 23rd
9:15 A.M. – Sunday School
5:00 P.M. – Angel Tree & Movie Night
Sunday, November 30th
9:15 A.M. – Sunday School
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Maker’s Market Kids Bake Sale
The kids will be participating in a bake sale booth at the Maker’s Market. We are looking for baked good donations along with volunteers to work the booth. Be on the look out for the booth sign-up.
ITEMS DUE NOVEMBER 22
YOUTH & FAMILIES ANGEL TREE SET UP & MOVIE NIGHT
Sunday, November 23 at 5PM
All youth and families are invited to help set up and decorate the Angel Tree! Following the decorating of the Angel Tree, we will have dinner and those who wish may stay for a movie in the Multi-Purpose Room. Decorating begins at 5pm! Meal at 6pm. Movie to follow. Middle School and High School youth may be unaccompanied by adults, but please have an adult to accompany elementary age youth. Need parent volunteers to help! A sign-up sheet will be available at church.
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MAKER’S MARKET
Saturday, November 22
9 AM to 2 PM
7415 Gin Rd, Marion TX 78124 — Zuehl Community
COME SUPPORT LOCAL MAKERS AND KICK OFF THE HOLIDAY SEASON WITH US!
► Discover unique handmade gifts from local artisans ◄
► Sweet Treats – Bake Sale supports Sunday School ◄
► Snack & Drinks Available – Cash Only Please ◄