SEPTEMBER 2025 - News & Views
A Message From Pastor Jen
Did you know that forgiveness uniquely distinguishes Christianity, setting us apart, from all other belief systems in the world?
God’s forgiveness towards us through the sacrifice of Christ on the cross for our sins is the foundation for Christian forgiveness. Then in turn, we can forgive others because God in Christ first forgave us! Colossians 3:13 reminds us of this – “…just as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive.” This also tells us that forgiveness is not a suggestion, but a command for Christians. Jesus makes it clear in Matthew 6:14-15 (& Luke 6:37) – “For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you; but if you do not forgive others, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.” Unforgiveness comes with consequences from God because that’s how strongly God desires us to live in forgiveness. Why? Forgiveness from us reflects God’s grace and love to the world. Forgiveness brings peace to the forgiver. Forgiveness has the power to restore broken relationships. Forgiveness allows for healing and freedom from bitterness and resentment. Forgiveness leads to removal of shame before God and enables spiritual growth and closeness with God.
Forgiveness is not condoning or excusing the wrong someone has done to you. Forgiveness does not deny the hurt or minimize the offense. Forgiveness does not make trust happen immediately. Rather, God demonstrated His love to the world, even for our enemies, when Jesus declared from the cross, “Father, forgive them for they do not know what they are doing (Luke 23:34).”
For all these reasons and more, I am so thankful for the event Johan and Sonja Henderlie will be doing at Redeemer that will enable us to walk in forgiveness with those who have hurt us. See more in the article titled, “Table Talk,” and consider coming for that event and allowing God to set you free from unforgiveness that may be holding you back from relationship with others and spiritual intimacy with God.
“Table Talk” with Johan and Sonja Hinderlie coming to Redeemer September 25
The Hinderlie’s have been dramatically re-enacting the story of Martin and Katie Luther since 1979 over 300 times in many different churches! This year they will present a “Table Talk” event that presents the entertaining Luther drama in a casual setting around a dinner table like the Luthers did called “Abendbrot,” translated “evening bread.” After the drama, their will be opportunity to ask questions of the Luthers and they will share some practices that helped the Luthers to overcome and set them free from shame, guilt and resentment in order to find forgiveness in Christ – freely given and freely received.
Join us for a Potluck meal on Thursday, September 25th beginning with the meal at 6:30PM. Please bring a dish of sandwiches, bread, soup, and/or salad to share!
We’re taking reservations for this event just so we know how many to expect – please RSVP to the church office or sign up in the Social Hall on Sunday morning. Feel free to invite friends and neighbors!
“For freedom Christ has set us free. Stand firm, therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery.” Galatians 5:1
IN OUR PRAYERS
Yoshiko Miyasaka, Judi Bullington, Eddie Moore, Alice Valle, Ellie Potts, Kimberly Luensmann, Dorothy Zunker
IN SYMPATHY
Family of Willfloyd “Willie” Paul Strey
Family of Betty Jean Haecker Strzelczyk
Family of Susan Myers
Happy Wedding Anniversary
Don & Marion Denson – 65 years
Reno & Vangie Bielke - 52 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, September 10, 2025 at 10:00 A.M. Lunch is served at noon; come and join us!
Upcoming 125th Anniversary Events
October 12 – Join us for Redeemer’s 125th Anniversary Celebration in Worship at 10:30AM with invited guests (former pastors), The New Braunfels Gemischter Chor Harmonie to sing and lead us musically during worship that will include singing both in German and in English. Matthew Luensmann will serve as guest preacher that day. Then join us after worship for a “finger foods” lunch and desserts and take a walk through the hallways to witness Redeemer’s history that has made us who we are today. What a joyous celebration it will be! Feel free to invite family and friends to come!
October 26 – Our Anniversary Celebration continues with our community at Harvest Festival in Worship at Bexar Hall. The Mannechor German Choir will sing and provide German music. Glen and Beverly Muenchow will lead our children and youth who will lead all of us in singing a German song accompanied by the accordion!
POTLUCK FELLOWSHIP BREAKFAST & DONUTS FOR DAD
Bring your favorite breakfast food to share and join in fellowship around food, faith & church family!
9:15-10:15 A.M.
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 21ST
Adult Bible Study Begins Sept. 7
1 John, 2 John, 3 John & Revelation!
Having Completed the Gospel of John last year, our Adult Bible Study Class is continuing to read and study all the Apostle John’s writings including 1, 2 & 3 John and the Book of Revelation. It’s going to be an intriguing journey as we embark on one of the most mysterious books of the Bible that reveals the 2nd Coming of Christ and is also connected with the entire bible from Old Testament prophecies through the teachings of Jesus and His promises that He will one day return again “to judge the living and the dead” at the fulfillment of time! But it means even more than that!
So join us on our journey through the scriptures Sunday mornings 9:00-10:00AM in the Back Social Hall led by Pastor Jennifer Gold and co-leader, Michele Taylor who holds a Master’s Degree in Christian Ministry from Wayland Baptist University and a Doctor of Education in Christian Leadership from Liberty University. What a blessing to have Michele’s wealth of wisdom and experiences as we lead these classes together!
Schedule for Study is as follows…
Sept. 7 – Recap 1 John & Study 1 John Chapter 4
Sept. 14 – 1 John Ch. 5
Sept. 21 – 2 John
Sept. 28 – 3 John
Oct. 5 – Introduction to Revelation – Part 1
Oct. 12 – No Adult Bible Study – Redeemer’s 125th Anniversary!
Oct. 19 – Introduction to Revelation – Part 2
Oct. 26 – No Adult Bible Study – Redeemer’s Harvest Festival at Bexar!
Sunday Mornings November through May – Book of Revelation
Key Verse for our study –“Blessed is the one who reads the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear it and take to heart what is written in it, because the time is near.”
Revelation 1:3
THE CHOSEN: SERIES THREE–Begins September 14!
Join us as we EXPERIENCE JESUS through this HIT TV Series. This is helpful for those who don’t like to read so it will make the Bible come alive for you! Digging deeper into the backstories and context of the people and events of the gospels, Season Three of “the #1 highest crowd-funded media project of all time” takes us on a journey with Jesus when he delivers one of the most impactful sermons in history and his disciples assume life will improve now that they’re following the Messiah. But problems quickly emerge, and pressures increase as the Romans and religious leaders don’t like the thousands of pilgrims pursuing Jesus. Come and see, listen and learn from Jesus concerning your own daily life problems and pressures. Come and experience the peace that He brings to your life and to the world!
Led by Pastor Jennifer, we will meet twice monthly on Sundays from 4-6 PM in the Back Social Hall to watch & discuss what we saw!
Here is the Schedule for SEASON THREE…
Sept. 14 – The Chosen: Homecoming
Oct. 12 – The Chosen: Two by Two & Physician, Heal Yourself
Nov. 2 – The Chosen: Clean Pt 1 & Pt 2
Nov. 16 – The Chosen: Intensity in Tent City
Nov. 30 – The Chosen: Ears to Hear
Dec. 14 – The Chosen: Sustenance
BEXAR ANNUAL SAUSAGE SUPPER
15681 Bexar Bowling Road, Marion TX 78124
830-420-2512
Saturday, September 20th
Homemade Sausage Supper
Serving 4pm to 8pm
Plates - $15/each
Sausage Wraps Available Outside
Raffle Tickets
Bake Sale
Children's Games
Silent & Live Auction
Dance w/DJ until Midnight
Redeemer United Church Council Meeting Minutes – Condensed - July 22, 2025
CALL TO ORDER
Mike Schulze called the meeting to order at 6:35 pm. In attendance were Pastor Jennifer Gold, Mike Schulze, Audrey Badders, Cody Canham, Steve Gangawer, Tammy Haecker, Diane Hunter, Ann Lindley, Lora Pape. Not in attendance was Jessice Kurz, Derek Pawlik.
OPENING PRAYER
Diane Hunter opened the meeting with a prayer.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES FROM JUNE 19, 2025
Minutes from the June 19, 2025 meeting were approved as written.
PASTOR’S REPORT
Pastor Gold presented her Pastor’s Report
Of note:
1. Important Upcoming Dates
a. August 17, 2025 - Guest Preacher, Jim Rackley
b. August 13-17, 2025 Pastor Gold will be on vacation
c. October 12, 2025 - 125th Anniversary Celebration
d. October 26, 2025 - Anniversary Celebration continuation at Harvest Festival
2. Camp Eagle was a success.
3. LCMC District Gathering July 25-26, 2025 in Victoria. Attendees are: Pastor Gold and Chris, Zach and Zane Gold, Mike Schulze, Steve and Janice Gangawer, Greg and DonAnne Williford
4. Disaster response to flooding-Redeemer has collected $4,905 ($700) in gift cards from special offering. Pastor Gold suggested to send money to the NALC disaster response network so it is dispersed immediately. Steve moved to send half of the money collected, less the gift cards to NALC disaster response team to be shared with the San Saba community for fencing need repairs. Diane seconded and the motion passed. Money will be collected through August 3rd.
5. New swings in Grove have been installed
6. New Youth event coordinator and name—TAG (Teens on Adventure with God)—Leader for middle and high school students will be Kayla Sweet
FINANCIAL REPORTS
The Council reviewed the memorial fund, building fund and treasurer’s reports and the reports were approved.
Discussion was had regarding adjusting the height of the tv in the sanctuary and whether or not to add a tv on the right of the altar.
Memorial Fund Report (as of 6/30/25)
Balance of $95,523.72
Building Fund Report (as of 6/30/25)
Balance of $43,885.09
Treasurer’s Report (as of 6/30/25)
Checking Account – $13,326.00
Money Market Account – $75.178.00
Certificate of Deposit – $50,000.00
Balance of $138,504.00
Quarterly Report (as of 6/30/25)
Checking Account – $13,326.00
Money Market Account – $75.178.00
Certificate of Deposit – $50,000.00
Balance of $138,504.00
OTHER COUNCIL REPORTS
Board of Christian Education (BCE)
Flyers handed out
Of note:
1. Blessing of Backpacks on August 24th
during 10:30 worship
2. Family Fun Day will be held on August 24th
after Church
3. September 7thSunday school kick-off with
Pancake breakfast & Grandparent’s Day
Property & Maintenance Report
No written report provided—Derek was absent
Of note:
1. Library fans were hung
2. New air filters are being ordered
EXISTING BUSINESS
125thAnniversary
The committee is working and prepping for the next event on October 12th
Library Update
The fans have been installed
Sprinkler Repairs
Russell Reinhard is working on getting the sprinklers repaired
LCMC Gathering July 25 & 26
Hotels have been booked and benevolence has been paid
NEW BUSINESS
VBS Review
VBS had a great year. There were approximately 40 kids and 40 volunteers each night
Pest Control
Need to look at other companies like Angel Pest Control or Randy Graham
Church Pew Repair
Numerous pews are starting to split on the backs. Mike will talk to Bruce Badders about repairing them. Possibly consider a back cushion.
Cemetery Plots
A member has requested that their non-member son purchase a plot and receive a discount. Cemetery committee decision was to follow the rules of the Constitution, thus not offering a discounted price.
Harvest Festival-October 26, 2025
Debbie Luensmann is in charge of the event and is working on preparations. A planning meeting will be held some time in August.
CALENDAR REVIEW
1. July 27, 2025 Congregational Meeting-All reports due July 22.
2. August 12-15, Pastor Gold out of office
3. August 17 Potluck breakfast
4. August 21, 2025 Council Meeting
5. August 24 Blessing of Backpacks and
Family Day
CLOSING PRAYER
Pastor Gold gave the closing prayer.
ADJOURN
Tammy moved to adjourn the meeting and Audrey seconded, the meeting was adjourned.
SCRIPTURE LESSONS FOR SEPTEMBER
September 7 – 13th Sunday after Pentecost
- Deuteronomy 30:15-20
- Psalm 1
- Philemon 1-21
- Luke 14:25-35
September 14 – 14th Sunday after Pentecost
- Ezekiel 34:11-24
- Psalm 119:169-176
- I Timothy 1:(5-11) 12-17
- Luke 15:1-10
September 21 – 15th Sunday after Pentecost
- Amos 8:4-7
- Psalm 113
- I Timothy 2:1-15
- Luke 16:1-15
September 28 – 16th Sunday after Pentecost
- Amos 6:1-7
- Psalm 146
- I Timothy 3:1-13
- Luke 16:19-31
Thank You
Dear Redeemer,
Thank you so much for giving me the opportunity to go to church camp this year. I had such a great time growing in my faith, building friendships, and spending time with other kids who also want to follow the Lord. Camp helped me feel closer to God and reminded me that I’m not alone in my walk with Him.
I’m so grateful for your support, love, and encouragement. Thank you for investing in me and giving me this chance to grow both spiritually and personally.
With love and gratitude,
Breelynn, Olivia, and Parker
We would like to thank the Redeemer family for your help and support during Russell’s illness. We appreciate the last 2 years of every one lifting us up in prayer and assisting us. He loved the church and his church family. Having everyone around him and making him feel like family made him so happy. Carol appreciated the words of comfort and encouragement as she was his care taker. It helped her get through some hard times. We were sad to see him go but he is looking down on us smiling. We appreciated the food and desserts during the funeral. As Russell said Faith and Believe until the end.
The family of Russell Bielke
September Birthdays
01-Bradley Klein, Jennifer Schulze
02-David Lindley
03-Kassen Dilworth, Cole Swanson, Jeanette Luensmann
04-Henley Pawlik, William Lindley
05-Joyce Kucherka
06-Hailey Hulett
07-Maryjo Contreras
10-Betty Zunker
13-Karen Metzger
14-Jody Nichols
17-Brianna Fulghum, Jo Williford
19-Andrea Missildine, Dorrene Henk
20-Joshua Williford
22-Jessica Sinclair
24-Cameron Luensmann
26-Roy Engelhardt
27-Steven Steinmetz
29-Roderick Reinhard
30-Lindsay King, Matthew Sweet
September Wedding Anniversaries
02-Don & Marion Denson
19-Tyler & Kelsey Canham
24-Wade & Lora Pape
25-Reno & Vangie Bielke
26-Larry & Debbie Luensmann
29-Horace & Laura Luensmann
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.
September 7, 2025 – Holy Communion
USHERS/GREETER – Church Council
LITURGIST – Justin Kurz
ACOLYTES – Reese Thayne & Parker Missildine
ALTAR FLOWERS – Janice Gangawer
BULLETINS – family of Jeanette Luensmann
September 14, 2025 – Youth Led Worship
USHERS/GREETER – Youth
LITURGISTS – Youth
ACOLYTES – Matthew Sweet & Breelynn Fennell-Leach
ALTAR FLOWERS – Chad & Jen Swanson
SIDE TABLE FLOWERS – Dorothy Luensmann
BULLETINS – Gerald & Betty Kriewald
September 21, 2025
USHERS/GREETERS – Shawn & Debbie Wiegand & Donna Luensmann
LITURGIST – open
ACOLYTES – Ella Maierhofer & Ryleigh Hulett
ALTAR FLOWERS – Gladys Kutach
BULLETINS – open
September 28, 2025
USHERS/GREETERS – Justin & Jackson Kurz & Vernon Winkelmann
LITURGIST – open
ACOLYTES – Cade Kurz & Finn Rackley
ALTAR FLOWERS – family of Lee & Lucy Wiederstein
SIDE TABLE FLOWERS – Melvin Krueger family
BULLETINS – Betty Surman
WOMEN’S FELLOWSHIP
The Women’s Fellowship will be hosting a Craft Fair on November 22, 2025. Please contact Patricia Sheffield at 210-275-3096 for more information.
Medical Items Available
People have donated gently used medical care items to be re-used by anyone who needs them. The following items are currently available:
Walker with seat, Cane, sliding transfer board
Anyone is welcome to take and borrow or take and keep. If you have other “hard to come by” medical items to donate to others, feel free to call and ask before bringing to church. Contact the church office for more information.
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.
Attention Redeemer YOUTH This is for YOU!
Sept. 7 – 9:15AM – S.S. Kick Off & Pancake Breakfast
Sept. 14 – S.S. 9:15AM YOUTH SUNDAY in Worship 10:30AM
Sept. 21 – S.S. & Breakfast Potluck 9:15AM
4-6PM – CONFIRMATION 2 CLASS: Lord’s Prayer: Prayer & Name (Back Social Hall)
Snacks provided by: Nelson Family – Thank you!
Sept. 28 – S.S. 9:15AM
12PM - TAG TIME
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TAG TIME - (Teens on Adventure with God)
For Middle & High School Youth
◄September 28 @ 12 pm►
Mark your calendars - Event TBD
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Sunday School!
The First day of Sunday School
September 7, 2025
Begins at 9:15
We will have breakfast!
Classes are open for ages 3 to high school
Welcome Back!
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HAPPY GRANDPARENTS DAY!