Life Bulletin -- Fall 2006
Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on who His favor rests." Luke 2:11; 14 NIV
Lutherans For Life of Illinois
Our Mission
The mission of Lutherans For Life
is to witness to the sanctity of human life through education based on the Word of God.
Board of Directors
President -- Corinne Thomley
Vice-President -- Joyce Fassig
Secretary -- Carol Stronsinski
Treasurer -- Brian Umbach
Spiritual Advisor -- Rev. A. Schmidt
Hon Board Member -- Diane Schroeder
Video Library -- Pat Garbe
Essay Contest -- Sandy Goss
Web Page -- Allan Benson
Board Member -- Donna Benson
Board Member -- Jeanne Strubbe
Please address any letters of inquiry or information to: Corrine Thomley (email)
or
Life Bulletin
c/o Lutherans For Life
408 Price
Mattoon, IL 61938
Deadline for inclusion in the next issue is February 15, 2007
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Humanism Vs. God
War of the World Views!
LFL of Illinois will greet Spring 2007 with our State Conference meeting at Trinity Lutheran School, McArthur Blvd., Springfield. We will jump head first into some of the sharpest controversies in our culture today.
Is "mankind" an accidental outcome of random changes in a stream of life forms? Or are humans the crown of God's creation -- made in His very likeness?
Did the Earth begin billions of years ago, with our planet slowly taking on its present shape and form? Or did God create the seas, the dry ground, plants and animals over a period of a few days as the Bible says?
Are all religions merely a different way to approach God? Or, is faith in Jesus the only path to reconciliation with God and life everlasting?
These topics will be the subjects of our spring meeting on Saturday, March 24, 2007 in Springfield, Illinois. Registration will begin at 8 a.m. with the program starting at 9:00. Dr. David Menton, well-known Creationist speaker and professor of Anatomy at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, will be featured. The program also includes Dr. Alvin Schmidt, well-known author and professor of Sociology at Illinois College, Jacksonville, Illinois. Dr. James Lamb, Executive Director of Lutherans for Life, and Diane Schroeder, National President, will round out the agenda.
Three Lutheran High Schools in the area have been asked to take part in the program. Students will introduce each speaker by telling about the humanistic world view that will be refuted in their presentation. During the panel discussion students have been asked to have specific questions to stimulate lively discussion.
Another feature we are working on for the day is to have the choruses of the Lutheran Schools take part. At several points in the program the students would perform and at some point, hopefully, have a massed chorus joining the schools together.
Awards for the High School Essay Contest will also be made.
Cost for the conference will be $25 for an individual, $40 for a couple, and $15 for students. (Those students taking part in the program will have free admission.) Included in the cost will be coffee and pastries during registration, lunch and free baby-sitting for those who need to avail themselves of the service. Attendees will have complimentary pamphlets and other materials included in their folders.
Answers in Genesis will have a table of their materials for sale. Dr. Schmidt will have a display of books he has authored. LFL of Illinois will have videos and books from the State circulating library there to borrow or take for a small donation. We'd suggest that those who have taken part in this prgram in the past might wish to bring used tapes or books to exchange for others. We'd also like to have local chapters bring displays to showcase their activities.
An early registration form is available here.
Print it, fill it out, mail it or keep it to remind you to reserve the date.
Dressing for Life:
Secrets of the Great Cover-Up
Former LF President Linda Bartlett has been busy lately with her Titus 2 For Life Ministry and Style Show.Traveling recently from Central Iowa to Mattoon, Illinois, she brought her program to help with raising the money to reopen a closed Crisis Pregnancy Center. Her efforts and the efforts of numerous members of the community went a long way toward reaching that goal.
Since God is the Master Designer of clothes, He has a lot to say about what we wear, our behavoir and loving others as ourselves. Unfortunately, today's culture does not encourage modern women to seek God's Word about clothes -- or about anything else, for that matter. The purpose of the "Dressing for Life" style show is to explain the "secret" of the great cover-up." Covering up is God's idea and therefore it is a great idea. "Covering up" -- both physically with closing and spiritually with Christ's robe of righteousness -- was necessary after sin entered the world. The program emphasizes that God does not call us to "sexy" living, but to "holy" living. God wants us to dress for the journey of life so that we might avoid temptations and, instead, make a safer trip to our eternal home.
There were women and girls from 47 area churches at the Mattoon event. Three hundred guests were seated at forty-four tables in the St. John's Lutheran School gymnasium. The desserts filled eight banquet tables. The local paper had a photographer on hand who took pictures of the eleven local models breezing through the crowds showing vintage and modern clothing that illustrated the points made by Linda.
One viewer remarked, "It shows the correlation of how we act and how we think is often driven by what society says is okay instead of what God says is pleasing to Him."
You can email Linda Bartlett to book a show.
Life Sunday, 2007
Cherish the Children
Life Sunday can be held any time of the year. Traditionally it is observed on a Sunday as close as possible to the anniversary of the Roe vs. Wade decision, which this year, will be Sunday, January 21.
LFL offers a variety of materials for use on this day. Among them are a collections of sermons with a pro-children/life focus.
1. His Angels Always See (Mathew 18:10)
Reverend Ed Engelbrecht summarizes his sermon ". . . when we remember God's most cherished gifts: forgiveness, life, and salvation through Jesus Christ and the gift of these little ones."
2. Cherish the Children (Matthew 18:1-14)
Reverend Dr. Lamb points out that we do not cherish the children because they are precious. We cherish the children because they are precious to God. All we do for children flows from this (PowerPoint included).
3. You Always were His Favorite (Luke 4: 16-30)
Dr. Lamb offers this sermon based on readings for January 21, 2007. Reaching out particularly to those who have had an abortion, all are reminded that regardless of what we have done, God's favor rests upon us through the forgiveness of sins in Jesus Christ.
4. Triangle of Love (Matthew 18: 1-14)
This triangle explained by Reverend Greg Scharm, includes a woman in a crisis pregnancy, a care counselor, and an adoptive couple. He makes it clear that cherishing the children can be fulfilled "only as we experience being cherished by the One who sacrificed Himself so that we, His children, would have everlasting life."
5. Welcome the Little Ones (Matthew 18: 1-6)
Reverend Steve Turner asks, "What makes the little ones great?" He answers, "God does!" God created all life and this alone makes all life of great value to God and God's people."
You can order Life Sunday materials here.
It's time to begin thinking about essays again. After an election year like this one, it's important for all of us to remember Who is in charge and Who will have the ultimate victory. Children need to be assured of this and what better way is there than to get them thinking and writing about the sanctity of all human life and the love of Jesus Christ for all His creation. This we do when we encourage them to think about and find Biblical references to His love and His care for all of His creation.
The information for the elementary contest follows this article. This year there will again be three categories: third and fourth grades, fifth and sixth grades, and seventh and eighth grades. Although the emphasis and the writing will be done during January it is not too soon to get children started thinking about just what they wish to write about this year.
The high school essay contest is already under way in some Lutheran High Schools. Students who have their composition classes during the fall semester are getting an early start so they will have papers ready for the February 18 deadline. This year the awards will be made during the March 24 Spring Conference at Trinity School in Springfield. The winning essays need to go through several tiers of judging and elimination and then be printed in booklets to be available the day of the conference.
As in the past few years, there will be a $1,000 grand prize given to one writer for use in furthering their education. In addition, six other writers will each get $100 prizes for excellence in the writing of their essays.
In each of the past three or four years there have been cash winners from students who are not attending a Lutheran High School but are still eligible because they are members of Lutheran churches. We encourage all Lutheran High School students to take part and then come to Springfield in March to take part in the awards ceremony. It should be great!
Life Awareness Essay Contest
Sponsored by Lutherans For Life of Illinois
All of us, as educators and parents, strive to teach our children God’s truth about the sanctity of life. There are very encouraging statistics that indicate the attitude and behavior of young people has shifted to be more pro-life. For the past 12 years we have been conducting this essay contest to give the students an opportunity to witness to all their values and opinions about God’s gift of life. We thank all that have participated in the past and encourage others to join.
Topic: "Cherish the Children" is the theme for Sanctity of Human Life Sunday, January 2007. It is not necessary to write about abortion. Perhaps the younger student can write about a special person in his/her life or God's plan for the family. Students in the older grades could write about sanctity of life issues such as abortion, euthanasia, end-of-life decisions, or the importance of marriage. The essays should reflect the student's viewpoint, substantiated by God's Word when possible.
Statistics: Whenever possible, the source of statistics used should be referenced.
Identification: All entries should be typed or handwritten in ink and must include the student’s name, grade and school name. It would be very helpful if each teacher would enclose a separate list (preferably typed) of the names of the participating students.
Levels and Length: There are three levels and suggested lengths for the essays:
Grades 3/4 -- 100 words
Grades 5/6 -- 250 words
Grades 7/8 -- 250 words
Again this year: Some teachers have asked if they could send in only their better essays. I encourage any teacher that would like to do so. There is no limit. All students who write essays will receive a bookmark. Let me know the total number of bookmarks to send.
Awards: Three students, one from each of the levels above, will receive a $25.00 cash gift and will have their essays published in various newsletters and on this website. The second place winners at each level will receive a $15.00 cash gift. Each participant will receive a bookmark.
Contest Dates: To coordinate with Life Awareness Week, please submit all entries no sooner than January 18, 2007, and no later than February 7, 2007.
Please direct all entries and inquires to:
Sandy Goss
629 East Central
Lombard, IL 60148
630-495-1093
2007 Lutherans For Life Essay Contest for High School Students
First Place $1,000 for College Expenses
I. ELIGIBILITY: To be eligible to compete, students must be in grades 9-12, be a resident of Illinois, enrolled in a Lutheran High School and/or a member of a Lutheran Church. (Non-Lutherans enrolled in a Lutheran High School are eligible.)
II.SUBJECT MATTER: A life issue topic witnessing to the sanctity of human life such as: the handicapped, abortion, euthanasia, cloning, embryonic stem cell research, etc.
III. JUDGING CRITERIA:
A. Organization
1. The focus and position of the paper must be clearly stated and supported using good paragraph structure.
B. Supporting Material
1. Include personal belief and Biblical references. When possible other independent sources should also be used. A bibliography and footnotes should be include.
C. Effectiveness of paper
1. The essay should make a moving, lasting impression on the reader and promote pro-life beliefs. Correct grammatical structure is important.
IV. PRIZES FOR THE WINNERS:
A. FIRST PLACE $1,000 SCHOLARSHIP
B. SIX RUNNER UP AWARDS $100 EACH
V. TO ENTER: Deadline February 18, 2007. Essay must be typed.
Pennies for Life
The way for all to give their support to Illinois Federation of Lutherans for Life
Many people who are against abortion, who believe with us in the sanctity of all human life, still feel that there is nothing they can do that will make a difference. Pro-abortion groups control the government and both political parties. The popular press, Hollywood, soap operas -- these all would make it seem that aobrtion and the values system that results are now so deeply entrenched that no one will be able to get us out of the mess. And that is just where they are wrong!
We can't forget that God has already won this battle. Life triumphed when Jesus rose from His tomb and promised us, His children who believe in Him, everlasting Life with Him in His Kingdom. And He will come and set things right here on earth. And that's where we are to be going about doing our business. It is our place to spread the Word of God and His love for all His little ones. The immediate results might not be what we want -- but He will have the final Word. We can do nothing else but take part and do our part.
LFL of Illinois does just that. We have our essay programs open to all Lutheran children from third to twelfth grade. We have our displays where we distribute free literature at public events, pastor conferences, teacher meetings, fairs and universities. We speak where we can, we educate wherever we are -- because that is our mission. Is it enough? No, it will never be. We do what we can at this time and in this place.
And we need your help. It all costs money. Our expenses each year for supplies, student awards, travel, set-up and display are more than $8,000. Only a small portion of that is covered with LFL dues payments. Churches and individuals make up the difference. Collect pennies in your church and give everyone a chance to "spread the word."
Dear Pastor and Principal,
We are asking our congregations and schools to support Lutherans For Life of Illinois by encouraging each of their members to contribute one penny for each year of their life. We hope that you will participate in this project.
This year there is no specific time frame for conducting this collection, making it possible for you to participate during Life Awareness month or other times such as Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, or any time that fits your calendar.
Please place an appropriate container in a prominent location in your church and/or school and mark it as “Pennies for Life.” Then convert the pennies to a check and mail it to us in care of our Treasurer:
Brian Umbach
5811 North Old Hickory Lane
Peoria, IL 61615
Your gift will be used by LFL for many educational projects, including the elementary and high school essay contests.
See our online Pennies for Life information. In addition, the following announcement could be placed in your bulletin:
Support Lutherans For Life by contributing one penny (or more if you like) for each year of your life. These pennies can be placed in the special container marked “Pennies for Life” found in xxxxx.
Thanks for your help!
The Eleventh Annual January Life Breakfast
featuring
Anthony (Tony) M. Mockus
Stage, Movie, TV Actor and Director
Voice of Pacific Garden Mission’s radio drama,
“Unshackled”
Friday
January 19, 2007
7:30 A. M.
Giovanni’s
610 N. Bell School Road
Rockford, IL
$20 per adult
$15 per student
Tables seat 10
Please make reservations by
Friday, January 12, 2007
(815) 397-6102
for more information
The Great Cover-Up
Do You Know What It's All About?
Here are some True/False statements from the Dressing For Life Style Show. Record your answers to the quiz, then see how well you did.
| 1. |
It's my body so I can wear whatever I want. |
T |
F |
| 2. |
God wants me to dress in dumpy, unattractive clothes. |
T |
F |
| 3. |
God made my body so it's OK to show it off. |
T |
F |
| 4. |
Clothes are more than just a matter of personal taste or opinion. |
T |
F |
| 5. |
The Bible is silent about modesty and clothing. |
T |
F |
| 6. |
How I dress has nothing to do with relationships. |
T |
F |
| 7. |
The clothes I wear say something about me. |
T |
F |
| 8. |
I can't help it if a guy gets "turned on" by what I'm wearing. |
T |
F |
| 9. |
"Dressing up" means being rich. |
T |
F |
| 10. |
Having a perfect figure means I'll be popular. |
T |
F |
Speak out for Life
Become a member of Lutherans for Life
Support the ministry of Lutherans for Life
Answers to
The Great Cover-Up Quiz
All are false except two: Question 4 and Question 7
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