​Contents of this Issue (scroll down for each):
 
Update from PPC
This Sunday
Mid-week Inspiration
Care and Concern
Faith Formation Now
Call Committee
How to give your offering
Youth
How You Can Help Others During COVID-19 Pandemic
Social Outreach
*** PLC Men’s Virtual Night Out ***
 
UPDATE FROM PPC
Dear Peace, Your PPC and Team Leads are still meeting monthly with many activities to discuss and items to tend to.  We are going on 7 weeks without gathering physically as a congregation, but the church remains as active as ever. While we are hopeful we can resume worship services in church soon, we are dependent upon state-wide measures that will likely ‘open’ our communities in phases.  Opening up will be slower and more incremental than the quick lock down that everyone experienced in March.  To that end, we are beginning to plan for our eventual re-opening and the many changes in our worship style that we must observe.  In addition, we see these implications currently for Peace:  1) the annual congregational meeting scheduled for May 3 will be postponed until later notice, however, we will share some updates and reports.  2) The PPC has updated our constitution as part of our Transition journey and had planned to present to the congregation for approval. We are exploring a virtual means for doing this – which will help us ‘try out’ a virtual congregational decision process if/when needed.  3) The Call Committee continues to move forward, improvising their approach, but clearly advancing with strong candidates.  4) We will observe communion again (virtually in your home) on the first Sunday of May (3rd) recognizing that many yearn for this gift of grace while affirming also that it is OK to ‘fast’ or refrain until we can return physically.  We will plan to observe in-home communion periodically until we can return. 5) Most of all, we are so grateful for so many gifts shared in worship, service, learning; your ongoing prayer support; and your steady and generous financial gifts.  All in all, while we are not going to church we are truly and surely BEING the church. May the Lord bless, keep, and shine God’s face upon us for the work of God’s mission through Peace Lutheran Church in these troubling times!
 
THIS SUNDAY
In this Sunday’s gospel the risen Christ appears to two disciples as a stranger, joining them on their walk along the road one evening. While going along together he teaches them.  The eyes of their hearts are opened, and they see what God is up to in all the events that had just taken place. When they get home, they invite him in and he has dinner with them. While breaking bread together, their eyes are opened again, and they see that it is Jesus – risen from the dead, alive to keep company with them and bless them!  Read Luke 24:13-35. You won’t want to miss this Sunday’s worship with Peace when again we celebrate Christ arisen among us! 
 
Each Sunday while we gather virtually, there are three ways you can get the worship video link and printable resource:  a) Look in your email inbox.  If you don’t see it, look in your spam folder and retrieve from there; b) On the Peace website www.peacelutheranlz.com; c) on the Peace Facebook page.  It is made available in all 3 ways at 7:00am Sunday.
 
MID-WEEK INSPIRATION
Two excellent resources for midweek inspiration in these stay-at-home days:  Bishop Yehiel Curry of our Metropolitan Chicago Synod shares a sermon based on last Sunday’s Scripture here.  And also, very local to us and our high school families, is this beautiful musical offering of the Lord’s blessing from the Lake Zurich High School Choir!
 
 
CARE & CONCERN
We pray for one another: We pray for those who need healing and wholeness.  This week we pray for Mike Wilms and Lin Hodkinson.  We welcome prayer requests.  Let us remember to life up our needs, concerns, and joys – and those of others – in our prayer!  Make your prayer request by emailing to Pastor Dale pastor@peacelutheranlz.com or the church office office@peacelutheranlz.com .
 
We care for one another: If you have any special need or know someone who does reach out to the Caring Tree by contacting Jean Foltin or Pastor Dale.
 
How are you doing – you, your family or household?  Expect a phone, email or text.  A CONNECTIONS TEAM of volunteers and staff are checking in with all Peace households.  We are the church -- connected!  
 
FAITH FORMATION NOW
Families with children at home:  You can access 10 Spiritual Activities for Families with Children on Peace website that change each week with the Scripture and worship theme.  For Sunday School children, there are SEED PACKETS placed in a bin at the Labyrinth for each child.  Pick a number and find the “space” with that number to scatter your seeds in the Easter season.  God planted a seed of faith in our heart, so all we have to do is water it with prayers, fertilize it with words of God, and cultivate it with lots of love. Watch this video to learn more.
 
This Sunday @ 9:15am – come gather ‘round virtually: bring your coffee cup and join in conversation. We will check in with each other as we “see” one another from our homes.  Then, watch a brief video this week called “Love is Biblical,” inspiring us for the week ahead!  Text or email Pastor Dale to get the Zoom link for Adult Forum this Sunday.
 
The Labyrinth is open for your personal time of reflection and prayer.  Come outside by yourself, breath in the fresh air, and walk the labyrinth. And keep your distance from others – the Labyrinth was made for this! See the recent article about the Labyrinth in local news!
 
Pastor Dale is reading through the Psalms – the deep collection of prayers and songs that have sustained God’s people in all times and seasons.  Journey with Pastor Dale each day on Facebook for a 1-2 minute  daily devotion. 
 
If you missed last Sunday’s worship go to www.peaceluthernlz.com to access to view the awesome contributions to our worship online during these stay-at-home days.
 
CALL COMMITTEE
Your Call Committee has been working hard during this isolation. We received the first round of pastoral candidates from our Bishop's Representative, Pastor Kyle Severson, at the end of March. Since then, we have been completing initial interviews and meeting regularly via video calls with a brief break during Holy Week. Once we complete the initial interviews, Pastor Severson will help guide our decisions for continuing the interviewing process as second interviews are typically completed in person and currently not recommended during COVID-19 concerns. We will update you on any alterations that may need to be made to the timeline. Until we choose our final candidate to present to the Peace congregation, we hope you understand the need to limit identifying information of our current candidates. Thank you again for choosing and trusting us to serve on your call committee! Feel free to reach out with any questions via email at  callcommittee@peacelutheranlz.com 
 
 HOW TO GIVE YOUR OFFERING
Your friends and fellow members are sharing their gifts and talents to advance all of the ministries of worship, service, outreach, and faith formation!  As we now gather in many and various ‘virtual’ ways, please consider your contributions to the virtual offering plate we pass.  Send your offering through one of these 4 convenient methods:
·       Mail your check to church
·       Use your bank website “send-payment” feature
·       Go to PLC website www.peacelutheranlz.com and click on “make a donation”
·       Download and use the app we recommend:
·       https://www.vancopayments.com/egiving/church-app
 
Celebrate with us and share the good news of Easter!
 
 YOUTH
Virtual Confirmation & Youth Group:  Tracy has set up weekly Zoom meetings so our teens can connect, talk and spend some time together while we are sheltered in place. The Virtual Youth Group will be held on Thursdays from 4-5pm and the Virtual Confirmation will be held on Thursdays from 7-8pm. Tracy will email and text the Zoom link and meeting code to each family on Wednesdays so everyone can participate!
 
Teen Devotions: Tracy will also be doing weekly devotions via a 5-minute video for our teens. These devotions will be emailed to families as well as posted on the Peace Lutheran Facebook page Facebook.
 
2020 HS Mission Trip to Knoxville, TN Update: Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Next Step Ministries has decided to cancel all 2020 mission trips. Therefore, our High School mission trip to Knoxville, Tennessee will not be happening. However, please keep the week of July 19th-25th open! Tracy is working on some options for a local mission trip, as well as keeping an eye on our state regulations. 
 
It's Community Garden Time!: The weather is (finally) starting to warm up, which means it is time to begin work on our community garden! We will be practicing and following our social distancing guidelines during this time and Tracy will be working with the Confirmands and High School students to determine times/what will be planted. Congregation members: If you would like to donate vegetable seeds for the garden, please let Tracy know!
 
HOW YOU CAN HELP OTHERS DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC
Helping others is something we are good at here at Peace! We can be the hands and feet of God even from the safety of our homes.  Check out the following information and even better, use your ears and hearts to listen for needs in our community and share it with the Outreach Team (Sue Koenig, Ann Blaylock) or Pastor Dale.  Watch for some new outreach announcements on how you can help locally coming out early next week!
 
For those who would like to donate directly to a food pantry, please see the information that follows:
 
St. Francis and the St. Vincent de Paul food pantry - Starting on 3/19/20, the food pantry is striving to remain open on Thursday evenings.  It is only open to residents of Lake County, IL.  Their hours are 6-7:15pm.  Clients will use a drive up process to get the food. Clients will be directed to form a line of cars in the parking lot behind the church and they will direct cars to the ministry center a few cars at a time with clients remaining in their cars. New clients need to bring a photo ID and 2 forms of ID for proof or residency. If you would like to donate food,  the items that are most needed are:  canned fruit (15 oz. can),canned corn (15 oz. can), white or brown rice (1 lb. bag), cereal, diced tomatoes (15 oz. can), tomato sauce (15 oz. can), canned chicken and peanut butter.  There are blue donation boxes at St. Francis Church and their Ministry Center to place any donations.
 
Alpine Chapel in Lake Zurich - Also operates a food pantry and is collecting donations daily at their church.  They are especially in need of diapers (adult, infant and even pet!) and non-perishable food and paper items.  Items can be placed in bins inside of their double doors during the daytime hours.
 
PADS of Lake County: The PADS housing site at Messiah Lutheran Church, and at all churches in Lake County, have been suspended due to the COVID-19.  The homeless people are being housed at several motels in the Waukegan area.  At this time, their biggest need is for financial assistance, there is also a signup link that offers a range of opportunities so if you are interested check that out at padslakecounty.org.
 
ELCA COVID-19 Response:  In the U.S., unemployment has soared and there are rising demands on food pantries, homeless shelters and social services. Around the world millions who live in poverty are facing this pandemic without reliable access to sanitation and health care.  The Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) – our wider church – has launched a COVID-19 Response Fund to support ministries and congregations most in need and best positioned to help. If you are in a position to help, you may give a gift through the ELCA’s COVID-19 Response Fund or click on this link to learn more.
 
Update on masks:  Sue Koenig will continue to make masks for anyone who needs one. Just let her know how many are needed (they won't be white as she’s out of that material!). 
 
SOCIAL OUTREACH
Lou Malnatis coupons are still available until April 30.  Call, text or email Sue Koenig for more information. Coupons are each $13 and money will be collected at the time the coupons are delivered in mid may. It’s a good way for people to help a local restaurant and help support adult mission trips!  Thanks!  SALE ENDS ON APRIL 30th!!!
Sew for Lutheran World Relief: School bags need to be made for Mission Projects Day 2021 and this is a perfect time to start sewing them.  Just email Sue Koenig if you would like a bag of kits dropped off on your front porch.  It's an easy pattern!
Update on Feed My Starving Children: Due to safety concerns, Feed My Starving Children has suspended packing events through the end of July for now.  We will reschedule our packing session (was scheduled for May) when we are able.
 
Secret Sister Luncheon/Reveal:  TBD. 
 
Adult Mission Trip: Unfortunately, the adult mission trip to WI in June is now cancelled.  We are continuing to evaluate if we can have a later date-possibly in August.  If we are unable to go on our trip this summer, your money will be refunded to you. If you have any questions, please contact Sue Koenig or Lynn Marinelli.
 
PLC MEN’S VIRTUAL NIGHT OUT – TRIVIA NIGHT.
When:  Friday, May 1 @ 7:30 p.m.
Winner will receive ABSOLUTELY NOTHING (bragging rights).
TO SIGN UP SEND AN E-MAIL TO:  paulbennett813@gmail.com BY APRIL 30. 
How it works:  Trivia questions will be asked via a Zoom session and the participants will text their answers to the host following specific rules.  The host will keep the score and update at the end of each round.  There would be three rounds with increasing difficulty and point value.  There will be a break between rounds to use the restroom, replenish beer, chitchat, etc..  10 questions per round.   If necessary, tie breaking questions will be asked at the end to determine the winner.
Point awarded for each correct answer:
·       1st Round - 5 points
·       2nd Round – 10 points
·       3rd Round – 15 points
It is recommended that participants use a computer for the Zoom session so their phone is freed up to text answers.  There may be some visuals so a larger screen may be helpful.
Rules:
1.       Participants sign up via e-mail (see below) by providing their cell phone number.  This ensures all the correct contacts are set up for easy scoring.  The link for the Zoom session will be e-mailed on May 1 several hours prior to start time.
2.       Everyone is on the honor system – no cheating.
3.       After each question, participants will have a set amount of time to send in their answer.   To do so they must first include the question number (it will be provided to them prior to reading each question) then a correct answer in order to receive credit.
TO SIGN UP SEND AN E-MAIL TO:  paulbennett813@gmail.com BY APRIL 30.  INCLUDE THE CELL PHONE NUMBER YOU WILL BE USING TO ANSWER QUESTIONS.   If you wish to have a “team name” for your one man team please include that in your sign up e-mail.
 
Ongoing Health and Safety at Peace
 
The daily and weekly routines have changed and continue to evolve during this time at Peace.  Our staff are working from home for you – and can be accessed at any time: Allison Hearst, office admin: office@peacelutheranlz.com ; Pastor Dale Ziemer: pastor@peacelutheranlz.com ; Tracy Katschke: Tracy@peacelutheranlz.com  To discourage public gatherings at this time, our church building is closed. For the safety and security of all, if you find you need to access the building, please inform in advance either Allison, Pastor Dale, or Jason.

Contents of this Issue (scroll down for each):

Thank you!
This Sunday
Care and Concern
Faith Formation Now
Call Committee
How to give your offering
Youth
How You Can Help Others During COVID-19 Pandemic
Social Outreach

THANK YOU!

So much gratitude for everyone who has contributed to our virtual gathering for worship in these stay-at-home days!  The young and old, readers and musicians, and the technical help from a growing circle of people is making this possible.  We are the church – together! And you are appreciated!

THIS SUNDAY

In this Sunday’s gospel the risen Christ appears to the disciples, offers them the gift of peace, and sends them on a mission – “as the Father has sent me, so I send you” (John 20:21).  Even amid doubts and questions, yes even when we cannot touch, taste or see while keeping social distance, “we believe.” And we gather virtually to worship the risen Christ and join in God’s work.  During the season of Easter the first two readings will be from the Acts of the Apostles and the first letter of Peter – messages of hope and new life! We will also bring back the weekly practice of confession and the gift of forgiveness. And we will share our faith together with the Apostles’ Creed. We are absolutely thrilled with the sharing of readings and music each week by you – the people of Peace!  We rejoice in the new birth and living hope Christ offers us each Sunday and each day! -- Pastor Dale
CARE & CONCERN
 
We pray for one another: We pray for those who need healing and wholeness.  This week we pray for Mike Wilms, Lin Hodkinson, and Jason Fralish.  We welcome prayer requests.  Let us remember to life up our needs, concerns, and joys – and those of others – in our prayer!  Make your prayer request by emailing to Pastor Dale pastor@peacelutheranlz.com or the church office office@peacelutheranlz.com .
 
We care for one another: If you have any special need or know someone who does reach out to the Caring Tree by contacting Jean Foltin or Pastor Dale.
 
How are you doing – you, your family or household?  Expect a phone, email or text.  A CONNECTIONS TEAM of 10 volunteers plus church staff are checking in with all Peace households.  We are the church -- connected!  

FAITH FORMATION NOW
 
Families with children at home:  You can access 10 Spiritual Activities for Families with Children that change each week with the Scripture and worship theme.  For Sunday School children,  there are SEED PACKETS placed in a bin at the Labyrinth for each child.  Pick a number and find the “space” with that number to scatter your seeds in the Easter season.  God planted a seed of faith in our heart, so all we have to do is water it with prayers, fertilize it with words of God, and cultivate it with lots of love.
 
This Sunday @ 9:15am – come gather ‘round people!  Bring your cup of coffee and join in conversation. We will check in with each other as we “see” one another from our homes.  Then, watch a brief video this week called “The God Who Sees You” that will inspire us for the week ahead! Watch for the link in the Sunday morning worship email.
 
The Labyrinth is open for your personal time of reflection and prayer.  Come outside by yourself, breath in the fresh air, and walk the labyrinth. And keep your distance from others – the Labyrinth was made for this! See the recent article about the Labyrinth in local news!
 
Pastor Dale is reading through the Psalms – the deep collection of prayers and songs that have sustained God’s people in all times and seasons.  Journey with Pastor Dale each day on Facebook for a 1-2 minute  daily devotion.  
 
If you missed last Sunday’s worship go to www.peaceluthernlz.com to access to view the awesome contributions to our worship online during these stay-at-home days.
 
Listen to Bishop Yehiel Curry of the Metropolitan Chicago Synod for a 5 minute Easter message.

CALL COMMITTEE
 
Your Call Committee has been working hard during this isolation. We received the first round of pastoral candidates from our Bishop's Representative, Pastor Kyle Severson, at the end of March. Since then, we have been completing initial interviews and meeting regularly via video calls with a brief break during Holy Week. Once we complete the initial interviews, Pastor Severson will help guide our decisions for continuing the interviewing process as second interviews are typically completed in person and currently not recommended during COVID-19 concerns. We will update you on any alterations that may need to be made to the timeline. Until we choose our final candidate to present to the Peace congregation, we hope you understand the need to limit identifying information of our current candidates. Thank you again for choosing and trusting us to serve on your call committee! Feel free to reach out with any questions via email at  callcommittee@peacelutheranlz.com 
 
 HOW TO GIVE YOUR OFFERING
 
Your friends and fellow members are sharing their gifts and talents to advance all of the ministries of worship, service, outreach, and faith formation!  As we now gather in many and various ‘virtual’ ways, please consider your contributions to the virtual offering plate we pass.  Send your offering through one of these 4 convenient methods:

• Mail your check to church
  
• Use your bank website “send-payment” feature
  
• Go to PLC website www.peacelutheranlz.com and click on “make a donation”
  
• Download and use the app we recommend: 
  
• https://www.vancopayments.com/egiving/church-app
  

 
Celebrate with us and share the good news of Easter!
 
 YOUTH
Virtual Confirmation & Youth Group:  Tracy has set up weekly Zoom meetings so our teens can connect, talk and spend some time together while we are sheltered in place. The Virtual Youth Group will be held on Thursdays from 4-5pm and the Virtual Confirmation will be held on Thursdays from 7-8pm. Tracy will email and text the Zoom link and meeting code to each family on Wednesdays so everyone can participate!
 
Teen Devotions: Tracy will also be doing weekly devotions via a 5-minute video for our teens. These devotions will be emailed to families as well as posted on the Peace Lutheran Facebook page Facebook.
  
HOW YOU CAN HELP OTHERS DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC

Helping others is something we are good at here at Peace! We can be the hands and feet of God even from the safety of our homes.  Check out the following information and even better, use your ears and hearts to listen for needs in our community and share it with the Outreach Team (Sue Koenig, Ann Blaylock) or Pastor Dale.

St. Francis and the St. Vincent de Paul food pantry have been very active these past few weeks.  On April 2 they had 145 clients pick up groceries curbside.  This was up 45 clients in one week! If you would like to help supply food for local people in need, there are blue donation boxes at St. Francis church and the ministry center in LZ.  They are taking non-perishable food, toilet paper, diapers and other paper products. 

PADS of Lake County: The PADS housing site at Messiah Lutheran Church, and at all churches in Lake County, have been suspended due to the COVID-19.  The homeless people are being housed at several motels in the Waukegan area.  At this time, their biggest need is for financial assistance, there is also a signup link that offers a range of opportunities so if you are interested check that out at padslakecounty.org.

ELCA COVID-19 Response:  In the U.S., unemployment has soared and there are rising demands on food pantries, homeless shelters and social services. Around the world millions who live in poverty are facing this pandemic without reliable access to sanitation and health care.  The Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) – our wider church – has launched a COVID-19 Response Fund to support ministries and congregations most in need and best positioned to help. If you are in a position to help, you may give a gift through the ELCA’s COVID-19 Response Fund or click on this link to learn more.

Update on masks:  Sue Koenig will continue to make masks for anyone who needs one. Just let her know how many are needed (they won't be white as she’s out of that material!). 
 
SOCIAL OUTREACH

Lou Malnatis coupons are still available until April 30.  Call, text or email Sue Koenig for more information. Coupons are each $13 and money will be collected at the time the coupons are delivered in mid may. It’s a good way for people to help a local restaurant and help support adult mission trips!  Thanks!
Sew for Lutheran World Relief: School bags need to be made for Mission Projects Day 2021 and this is a perfect time to start sewing them.  Just email Sue Koenig if you would like a bag of kits dropped off on your front porch.  It's an easy pattern!

Update on LSSI Easter baskets: Due to the stay in place order, LSSI was not able to use the Easter baskets that we put together for them this year.  They did not go to waste however-Alpine Chapel was able to hand them out to local children that accessed their food pantry.  The baskets were filled with fun activities for the children to do at home-balls, bubbles, puzzles, playdough and sidewalk chalk.  Thank you to Thrivent Financial that supplied funds for this project.
 
Update on Feed My Starving Children: Due to safety concerns, Feed My Starving Children has suspended packing events through the end of July for now.  We will reschedule our packing session (was scheduled for May) when we are able.
 
Secret Sister Luncheon/Reveal:  TBD. 
 
Adult Mission Trip: For now, we are hoping that the mission trip will still happen. We will be going to Wisconsin June 21-27 to help rebuild homes effected by severe flooding in 2018.  A $25 non-refundable deposit is now due to reserve your spot.  We have 35 spots reserved. Make your check out to Living Lord Lutheran Church with adult mission trip in the memo section.  You can send it to Lynn Marinelli at Living Lord or just put the check in an envelope and place it in the adult mission trip mail slot in the office at Peace. If you are able to help sell Lou Malnati's pizza coupons for our upcoming fund raiser, please let Sue Koenig know when you are available or sign up for a time on the sign-up sheet in the before mentioned mail slot.  We will be selling the coupons before and after each service starting on March 15 and ending April 5. Other dates to keep in mind are:  Culver's Fund Raiser in Lake Zurich on April 20 and team building has been canceled.  Final payment of $100 and your skill assessments are due at that time. Please call Sue Koenig if you have any questions.
 
Ongoing Health and Safety at Peace
 
The daily and weekly routines have changed and continue to evolve during this time at Peace.  Our staff are working from home for you – and can be accessed at any time: Allison Hearst, office admin: office@peacelutheranlz.com ; Pastor Dale Ziemer: pastor@peacelutheranlz.com ; Tracy Katschke: Tracy@peacelutheranlz.com  To discourage public gatherings at this time, our church building is closed. For the safety and security of all, if you find you need to access the building, please inform in advance either Allison, Pastor Dale, or Jason.
 

​

​Check out Pastor Dale video for Communion in Your Home
 
Maundy Thursday – communion in your home: how to prepare
Good Friday service
Easter Sunday
How to give your offering now
Care & Concern
Connections Now
The Labyrinth is open
Communion Bread Recipe
 
Maundy Thursday – how to prepare for communion in your home:
Please join in communion on Maundy Thursday.
Preparation is as simple as you would like to make it.
 
First of all:  decide the time you will observe Holy Communion in your home on Maundy Thursday.  We suggest that you plan to observe Holy Communion at the conclusion of your evening meal.
 
How to prepare:
1.      The bread:  Take the Peace communion bread bakers’ no-yeast recipe (at the end of this email). If you do not wish to bake, you absolutely may use any nice loaf or slice/s of bread in your home.
2.      The wine:  Choose the drink (wine or juice) appropriate for your household.
3.      Take out a special occasion plate and goblet (or cup).  Remind yourself why this is a special plate or cup. If there are others in your household, share what memories and images it brings to mind.
4.      Choose the location in your home for this meal. Where do you usually have a special meal?  You may bring out a special table cloth if you have one.  Place a candle too.
5.      Look for the Worship-In-Your-Home email Thursday morning. 
6.      Print out that email, as it will have the Maundy Thursday order of service. 
7.      Get your computer or device ready to view the Maundy Thursday video in the evening along with Peace congregation.
 
Good Friday
Good Friday will be a service of songs and readings to focus our hearts and minds in devotion to our Savior.  Our Peace Lutheran confirmands will present the readings, and Peace musicians will provide the music.  Look for the Good Friday Worship-In-Your-Home email Friday morning.
 
Easter Sunday
Christ is Risen: He is risen indeed!  Join in a joyous Easter Sunday celebration of the Gospel – Jesus risen from the dead – in word and song!  This is an all-call for music recorded in your home by anyone young or old with an Easter message or theme.  Or send a picture of new life – pictures of your smile, signs of spring, new growth, flowers, joy or surprise from your house! Let your imagination go as you share in song or pictures the joy of life and living on this Easter Sunday!  Send your music video or pictures to peacefiles@peacelutheranlz.com or email to ask for help. 
 
Look for the Easter Sunday Worship-In-Your-Home email early Sunday morning.  Christ is Risen: He is risen indeed!
 
How to give your offering now
The work of our church goes on as we learn how to operate in a “new normal” for now.  You can only imagine that without gathering on Sunday there is no offering plate that is passed – the source of 75% of our weekly revenue to keep up with our financial obligations.  If your practice was to give your offering at worship, please continue your generous financial support by choosing one of these options now: 
n  mailing your offering each week to the church office; or
n  use your bank website “send-payment” feature; or
n  go to PLC website www.peacelutheranlz.com and click on “make a donation;” or
n  download and use the app we recommend:  https://www.vancopayments.com/egiving/church-app
Your continuing generous support is essential for the vital ministry of Peace Lutheran to continue fully through this crisis time.
 
 
Care & Concern
We pray for one another: We pray for those who need healing and wholeness.  This week we pray for Mike Wilms and Lin Hodkinson.  We welcome prayer requests.  Let us remember to life up our needs, concerns, and joys – and those of others – in our prayer!  Make your prayer request by emailing to Pastor Dale pastor@peacelutheranlz.com or the church office office@peacelutheranlz.com .
 
We care for one another: If you have any special need or know someone who does reach out to the Caring Tree by contacting Jean Foltin or Pastor Dale.
 
CONNECTIONS NOW
How are you doing – you, your family or household?  A CONNECTIONS TEAM of 10 volunteers plus church staff are calling all Peace households to “check in” with you and to stay connected.  In these days of social isolation, and without physical worship to sustain us, we find that personal contact is still and even more important, yes, essential. Our connections team will look to CONNECT – and stay connected with you – just to stay in touch. Let us know how you are dealing with these days of social isolation – how you are giving and getting support.  We Are Peace…. connected!
 
The Labyrinth is open!
Peace Lutheran building and grounds are a sacred space created for prayer, meditation, worship and service.  While the church building where we gather is closed, the Labyrinth is open for your personal time of reflection and prayer.  Come outside by yourself, breath in the fresh air, and walk the labyrinth. And keep your distance from others – the Labyrinth was made for this! Note: the labyrinth along with Lake Zurich parks are open, but not the playground.
 
 
Peace Lutheran Communion Bread Recipe
 
Ingredients:
4 cups whole wheat flour
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup honey
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1 egg yolk
7/8 cup warm milk
 
Directions:
Sift flour and add salt.
Mix honey and oil, and warm slightly.
Mix egg yolk in warm milk
Add honey and oil to the flour and salt
Add egg and milk mixture gradually to the flour mixture.
Divide dough into 2 equal pieces.
Working with one piece at a time, roll out thin (but not too thin) to dinner plate size.
Score each piece, making the sign of a cross.
Bake on greased cookie sheet for 12 minutes at 350 degrees.

​This Week
Scroll down for –
Mid-week Inspiration
Palm Sunday (April 5)
Connections Now – Reaching out to every PLC household
Maundy Thursday (April 8)
Good Friday (April 9)
Easter Sunday (April 12)
How to give your offering now
The Labyrinth is open
Care & Concern
Faith Formation Now
Health & Safety at Peace
Youth
Social Outreach 
Mid-week Inspiration
Jesus walks this Lenten journey with us. It has already taken us into dark valleys and has provided joyous moments!  You, me and all of us together are walking this path now.  Begin here for 10 minutes mid-week inspiration that is sure to give you support on your journey wherever you are.  Begin with Mary’s song and let it uplift you as we affirm God’s ongoing life-saving work today. Click on this link to listen and watch and view Matt Handley’s faith journey.  
Next week is Holy Week at Peace:  Join in meaningful virtual worship together with Peace congregation in Holy Week and Easter!  All worship services will be online here, or open your email on these days:  April 5 – Palm Sunday/Sunday of the Passion.  April 9 – Maundy Thursday with observance of Holy Communion in your home.  April 10 – Good Friday readings and music.  April 12 – Easter Sunday 
Palm Sunday (April 5)
This Sunday, April 5, has 2 names: Sunday of the Passion/Palm Sunday.  The two names reflect the broad scope of the holy week narrative, the last week of Jesus’ life.  We are transported with joyful exuberance from Jesus’ welcoming parade into the capital city of Jerusalem to his suffering and death on the cross for the redemption of the world.
What you can do to prepare for Palm Sunday:  In your home you can read of the triumphal entry of Christ into Jerusalem in Matthew 21:1-11, and a section of the passion (suffering) of Christ in Matthew 27:1-54.  And as an option, come by the Peace Lutheran front doors on Saturday (9am-4pm) to pick up a palm branch(es) for your household. Here are instructions for going one step further - making a palm cross. 
How to pick up a palm branch(s):  We are all requested to “stay home,” the way to prevent the menacing spread of the coronavirus.  At the same time as you leave your home on any essential errand, you may come by the church on Saturday to pick up a palm(s).  Please use all appropriate hygiene and social distance.  The palms will be laid on the concrete at the front doors, with all precautions taken in their preparation. 
CONNECTIONS NOW – Reaching out to every PLC household
How are you doing – you, your family or household?  Expect a phone call soon – that’s right, a personal phone call.  A CONNECTIONS TEAM of 10 volunteers plus church staff are calling all Peace households to “check in” with you and to stay connected.  In these days of social isolation, and without physical worship to sustain us, we find that personal contact is still and even more important, yes, essential. Our connections team will look to CONNECT with you, not physically, not intrusively but gently by phone, text or email, just to stay in touch. When the contact is made, let the Peace caller know how you are doing, and how you are getting support. Let us know if you have any need, or have any help to give.  These are difficult days, and we want to be here for each other, now, through these times and to the other side.  Let us know how you are doing!  We Are Peace…. connected! 
Maundy Thursday
Maundy Thursday (April 9) commemorates Jesus’ last supper with his disciples, and his mandatum (=commandment) to love one another. You are invited on this Thursday evening in your home at dinner time to observe the holy communion with Peace. Instituted by Christ at an evening Passover meal with his disciples, by eating and drinking together we share in the body of Christ.  Whenever we eat and drink in communion we proclaim the Lord’s saving death and resurrection on our behalf and for the world.   Online worship will include an observance of Holy Communion guided by Pastor Dale to view and share in. Christ is truly present with us in every moment (in our hearts), in the Word we hear (through our ears), in the fellowship of fellow Christians (physically or virtually), and in the Meal (bread and cup). Christ is truly present with us, in us, and among us.  Jesus said, “Do this in remembrance of me.”  We will remember together and welcome Christ in our homes on Thursday evening.  Watch your email inbox with the communion bread recipe to make ahead. 
Good Friday (April 10) will be a service of songs and readings to focus our hearts and minds in devotion to our Savior – who gave his life that we might live. Access to virtual Good Friday worship will be emailed Friday morning.
Easter Sunday
Christ is Risen: He is risen indeed!  Join in a joyous Easter Sunday celebration of the Gospel – Jesus risen from the dead – in word and song!  This is an all-call for music recorded in your home by anyone young or old with an Easter message or theme.  Or send a picture of new life – pictures of your smile, signs of spring, new growth, flowers, joy or surprise from your house! Let you imagination go as you share in song or pictures the joy of life and living on this Easter Sunday!  Send your music video or pictures to peacefiles@peacelutheranlz.com or email the same to ask for help.  Access to Easter Sunday virtual worship will be emailed Sunday morning.  Christ is Risen: He is risen indeed! 
How to give your offering now
The work of our church goes on as we learn how to operate in a “new normal” for now.  You can only imagine that without gathering on Sunday there is no offering plate that is passed – the source of 75% of our weekly revenue to keep up with our financial obligations.  If your practice was to give your offering at worship, please continue your generous financial support by choosing one of these options now: 
n  mailing your offering each week to the church office;  or
n  use your bank website “send-payment” feature; or
n  go to PLC website www.peacelutheranlz.com and click on “make a donation;” or
n  download and use the app we recommend:  https://www.vancopayments.com/egiving/church-app
Your continuing generous support is essential for the vital ministry of Peace Lutheran to continue fully through this crisis time. 
The Labyrinth is open!
Peace Lutheran building and grounds are a sacred space created for prayer, meditation, worship and service.  While the church building where we gather is closed, the Labyrinth is open for your personal time of reflection and prayer.  Come outside by yourself, breath in the fresh air, and walk the labyrinth. And keep your distance from others – the Labyrinth was made for this! Note: the labyrinth along with Lake Zurich parks are open, but not the playground. 
Care & Concern
We pray for one another: We pray for those who need healing and wholeness.  This week we pray for Mike Wilms and Lin Hodkinson.  We welcome prayer requests.  Let us remember to life up our needs, concerns, and joys – and those of others – in our prayer!  Make your prayer request by emailing to Pastor Dale pastor@peacelutheranlz.com or the church office office@peacelutheranlz.com . 
We care for one another: If you have any special need or know someone who does reach out to the Caring Tree by contacting Jean Foltin or Pastor Dale. 
Faith Formation Now 
Families with children at home:  You can access 10 Spiritual Activities for Families with Children that change each week with the Scripture and worship theme. 
Pastor Dale’s Daily Psalms.  I began this season of Lent deciding I would not “give up” anything for Lent.  Boy was I wrong!  Little did we know we would be asked to give up so much – our mobility, our social and physical contact, our daily routines, and even sources of livelihood. I had planned to “take up” something for Lent instead.  So, I started reading through the Psalms – hymns and prayers that have sustained God’s people in all times and seasons.  Journey with Pastor Dale each day on Facebook for a 1-2 minute  daily devotion.  Would you like a daily text or email instead? Just RSVP to this email. 
If you missed last Sunday’s worship or midweek inspiration go to www.peaceluthernlz.com to access the resources to view and join in. 
This Sunday @ 9:15am: “A New Family: Opening the Doors of the Church.” What is most exciting about this Sunday session is that IT IS HAPPENING in a virtual room where we check in with each other, see each other, and update one another.  Yes, we will get to the topic for this week, “Gatekeeping,” but the real joy in gathering on ZOOM at 9:15am Sunday is the conversation!! 
Devotional booklets normally on the narthex table are still available to you.  For a delivery to your door of Portals of Prayer or Christ in our Home are available contact Bob Foltin. 
Have a comment or question for the Pastoral Call Committee? You can reach them by email at callcommittee@peacelutheranlz.com 
Ongoing Health and Safety at Peace: 
The daily and weekly routines have changed and continue to evolve during this time at Peace.  Our staff are working from home for you – and can be accessed at any time: Allison Hearst: office@peacelutheranlz.com ; Pastor Dale Ziemer: pastor@peacelutheranlz.com ; Tracy Katschke: Tracy@peacelutheranlz.com  To discourage public gatherings at this time, our church building is closed. For the safety and security of all, if you find you need to access the building, please inform in advance either Allison, Pastor Dale, or Jason.
 
 Youth
 
Virtual Confirmation & Youth Group: Starting Wednesday, March 25th, Tracy will be setting up weekly Zoom meetings so our teens can connect, talk and spend some time together while we are sheltered in place. The Virtual Youth Group will be held on Wednesdays from 4-5pm and the Virtual Confirmation will be held on Wednesdays from 7-8pm. Tracy will email and text the Zoom link and meeting code to each family on Tuesdays so everyone can participate!
 
Teen Devotions: Tracy will also be doing weekly devotions via a 5-minute video for our teens. These devotions will be emailed to families as well as posted on the Peace Lutheran Facebook page.
 
July Mission Trip to Knoxville, TN: As of right now, the July HS mission trip to Knoxville, Tennessee is still ON. Tracy has been in contact with Next Step Ministries, the organization that we are working with for the trip, daily - and sometimes hourly - regarding their procedures with COVID-19. If anything changes or the trip is deemed too risky to take, Tracy will be in contact with all mission trip families immediately. All upcoming mission trip fundraisers - i.e. the Flapjack Frenzy pancake breakfast - are currently on hold. 
 
Social Outreach
How will we serve our neighbor now?
Please check with team lead to confirm activities
 
With the crisis all around us, this is not the time to put our social outreach on the back burner.  Let us all look to create new ways to maintain connection in this time of isolation. Keep this at the very forefront of your mind.  Think of your neighbors, those you know by name, those you normally meet daily or weekly.  Think of every person you meet up with on Sunday, every hand you shake, and now turn it into a check-in by phone, text or email instead.  Every manner of touch that we should now avoid can become instead a verbal expression of warmth and concern. Reach out, let them know they are not alone.  Please keep social outreach on your mind. 
 
 
How you can donate
Suburban residents, businesses, school districts and other agencies have been spearheading efforts to show their appreciation for health care workers during the coronavirus pandemic. Here are some ways you can help:

• Give InKind pages have been created for Advocate Condell Medical Center in Libertyville; Advocate Lutheran General Hospital in Park Ridge; NorthShore Evanston Hospital; NorthShore Glenbrook Hospital in Glenview; NorthShore Highland Park Hospital; and Northwestern Medicine Lake Forest Hospital. Sign up for an available time slot to provide lunch, dinner or snacks to employees. Delivery instructions are available on each Give InKind page. A Facebook group has been created to coordinate the efforts: www.facebook.com/groups/217259053018656/.

• Sign up to deliver individually packaged meals to the emergency room at Northwestern Medicine Delnor Hospital in Geneva. Participants must coordinate drop-off times with staff members. More information about the Meal Train can be found at www.mealtrain.com/trains/2y0me8.

• Contribute to the "Naperville Helps!" initiative, which supports local restaurants while also providing food to health care workers, police officers and firefighters. To donate, visit the GoFundMe page at www.gofundme.com/f/naperville-helps.

• Buy a meal from BBQ'd Productions for medical professionals and first responders. For more information, visit www.wegrillitall.com/store/category/corona-virus-relief/.

• Order a pizza from Masi's Pizza in Carpentersville to be delivered to employees of Advocate Sherman Hospital in Elgin. To participate, call the restaurant at (847) 426-3700 and specify that the order is part of the hospital donation efforts. West Dundee resident Dave Pahlke will deliver the pizzas Friday.

• Donate masks, gloves, goggles and other personal protective equipment to local police stations, fire departments and hospitals. Officials recommend calling ahead to see when, where and how donations are being accepted. At Elmhurst Hospital and Edward Hospital in Naperville, for example, donations are being accepted at their loading docks from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Questions can be directed to donations@eehealth.org.
 
Lou Malnatis coupons are still available.  You can pay for them later.  Call, text or email Sue Koenig for more information
 
Secret Sister Luncheon/Reveal:  TBD. 
 
Adult Mission Trip: For now, we are hoping that the mission trip will still happen. We will be going to Wisconsin June 21-27 to help rebuild homes effected by severe flooding in 2018.  A $25 non-refundable deposit is now due to reserve your spot.  We have 35 spots reserved. Make your check out to Living Lord Lutheran Church with adult mission trip in the memo section.  You can send it to Lynn Marinelli at Living Lord or just put the check in an envelope and place it in the adult mission trip mail slot in the office at Peace. If you are able to help sell Lou Malnati's pizza coupons for our upcoming fund raiser, please let Sue Koenig know when you are available or sign up for a time on the sign-up sheet in the before mentioned mail slot.  We will be selling the coupons before and after each service starting on March 15 and ending April 5. Other dates to keep in mind are:  Culver's Fund Raiser in Lake Zurich on April 20 and team building has been canceled.  Final payment of $100 and your skill assessments are due at that time. Please call Sue Koenig if you have any questions.


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