Caring and Sharing the Warmth Coat Drive: NEW DEADLINE: NOVEMBER 3. The weather is changing, so this is a good time to review cold weather items in our closets and share with others in need. Please bring clean, gently-used coats, jackets, gloves, hats, and scarves AND/OR donate money to help purchase items needed and put them in the box in the narthex. We welcome both adult and children’s sizes. We will work with key contacts in schools to help identify recipients. A Thrivent Action Grant has been approved for this project. You can check out the project page here. Outreach contacts:  Carolyn Jones and Lydia Berrong.

Trunk or Treat: TOMORROW, October 26, 2:00-4:00 p.m. Check your email for a message from Pastor Scott with details.

Installation Service: The Rev. Dr. David H. Brooks will be installed as the Pastor of Grace Lutheran Church, 824 North Buchanan Blvd, Durham on Reformation Sunday, Oct. 27 at 4:30 p.m. A reception will follow. Members of Advent, you are invited..

Daylight Savings Time ends November 3, 2018. Turn clocks back one hour when going to bed on next Saturday, November 2.

Save the Date: On Saturday, November 16 at 9:00 a.m. there will be an outside yard clean-up to prepare the grounds for winter. Lunch will be served. See Paul Simis for more information.

Adult Bible Class Leaders: Oct. 27 – John Cangelosi, Nov. 3 – Joe Schradie, Nov. 10 – John Stow

Readings for Sunday, Oct. 27, Observation of Reformation Day: For those who wish to prepare for Sunday’s lessons, please read Rev. 14:6–7, Psalm 46, Rom. 3:19–28, John 8:31–36 or Matt. 11:12–19

The Son of God Has Set Us Free from Sin and Death by His Grace: “Wisdom is justified by her deeds” (Matt. 11:19), and the true Wisdom of God, Christ Jesus, the incarnate Son, justifies us by His deeds. He prepares His way by the preaching of repentance, but He has suffered the violence of the Law and voluntarily handed Himself over to violent men, that we might eat and drink with Him in His Kingdom and “remain in the house forever” (John 8:35). For He is “a friend of tax collectors and sinners” (Matt. 11:19), and He has rescued us by His grace from the slavery of sin and death. By the proclamation of His eternal Gospel “to those who dwell on earth, to every nation and tribe and language and people” (Rev. 14:6), “the righteousness of God has been manifested apart from the law” (Rom. 3:21), “that he might be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus” (Rom. 3:26). And by hearing the Gospel of Christ Jesus, “whom God put forward as a propitiation by his blood, to be received by faith” (Rom. 3:25), “you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free” (John 8:32).

Caring and Sharing the Warmth Coat Drive: The weather is changing, so this is a good time to review cold weather items in our closets and share with others in need. Please bring clean, gently-used coats, jackets, gloves, hats, and scarves AND/OR donate money to help purchase items needed and put them in the box in the narthex. We welcome both adult and children’s sizes. We will work with key contacts in schools to help identify recipients. DEADLINE: OCTOBER 27. Outreach contacts:  Carolyn Jones and Lydia Berrong.

Team World Vision: Pastor and Gina’s daughter, Courtney, is in the process of training for a half marathon with Team World Vision on October 20. Courtney is not a runner, however, she has a heart for people, especially children, and is compelled to help in any way possible. In Courtney’s words, “My ultimate goal in running this is to help provide clean water to kids and communities in need around the world. Through World Vision, just $50 provides clean water to 1 person. If you would consider donating to support me in this mission, that would be amazing!” Her goal is $3,000. If you feel moved to help, here is the link to her donation page.

Helping Our NC Neighbors impacted by Hurricanes: Since 2017, we have been working to help our neighbors in the Lumberton NC area who were affected by Hurricanes Matthew and Florence. Check out the Outreach page of our website for details about everything we have been doing.

Adult Bible Class Leaders: Oct. 20 – Bob Serpas, Oct. 27 – John Cangelosi, Nov. 3 – Joe Schradie, Nov. 10 – John Stow

Readings for Sunday, Oct. 20 (Prop. 24), 19^th Sunday after Pentecost: For those who wish to prepare for Sunday’s lessons, please read Gen. 32:22–30, Psalm 121, 2 Tim. 3:14—4:5, Luke 18:1–8

Faith Clings to the Word and Promises of God and Perseveres in Prayer: “Left alone,” Jacob wrestled through the night with the Lord, “until the breaking of the day” (Gen. 32:24). Though “Jacob’s hip was put out of joint as he wrestled with him” (Gen. 32:25), he would not let go until the Lord blessed him. At times, we, too, strive with God; He strives with us and blesses us by grace. So Jesus teaches us “always to pray and not lose heart” (Luke 18:1). Jesus speaks of “a judge who neither feared God nor respected man” and of a widow “who kept coming to him and saying, ‘Give me justice against my adversary’” (Luke 18:2–3). Because of her persistence, the judge agreed to “give her justice” (Luke 18:5). Our Lord dispenses justice generously and swiftly, giving “justice to his elect, who cry to him day and night” (Luke 18:7). He does so according to the Gospel. Therefore, His ministers are to persevere faithfully in their vocation, in what they “have learned and have firmly believed” (2 Tim. 3:14). On the basis of “the sacred writings” (2 Tim. 3:15), they are to “preach the word” at all times and not lose heart (2 Tim. 4:2).

PORCH: Upcoming sort dates – October 14, November 18, December 16. Please bring non-perishables and canned goods. These items are taken to those with food insecurity needs in the area.

Outreach Event: On Saturday, October 26 from 2:00-4:00 p.m., Advent will host a Trunk or Treat! Neighbors, friends and members are invited. We want to continue to make Jesus known to those around us who may not know of His love. A volunteer sign-up sheet is in the Narthex. Please contact Gina Lohman if you have further questions.

Caring and Sharing the Warmth Coat Drive: The weather is changing, so this is a good time to review cold weather items in our closets and share with others in need. Please bring clean, gently-used coats, jackets, gloves, hats, and scarves AND/OR donate money to help purchase items needed. We welcome both adult and children’s sizes. We will work with key contacts in schools to help identify recipients. DEADLINE: OCTOBER 27. Outreach contacts:  Carolyn Jones and Lydia Berrong.

Celebrating You: Please check the “Celebrating You” bulletin board in the hallway and help us update lists of your birthdays and anniversaries. Add names and dates and make corrections on the posted sheets. As you know, we also like to recognize our Advent veterans and the veterans in our extended families in November. Information about veterans will also be posted for your review and edits.  Questions: contact Carolyn Jones

Advent Security: At Council’s direction, a team of volunteers has been researching ways to improve security and safety for people while in the church building. A number of ideas will be implemented in the next few months. See this Advent Security  write-up or more details.

Team World Vision: Pastor and Gina’s daughter, Courtney, is in the process of training for a half marathon with Team World Vision on October 20. Courtney is not a runner, however, she has a heart for people, especially children, and is compelled to help in any way possible. In Courtney’s words, “My ultimate goal in running this is to help provide clean water to kids and communities in need around the world. Through World Vision, just $50 provides clean water to 1 person. If you would consider donating to support me in this mission, that would be amazing!” Her goal is $3,000. If you feel moved to help, here is the link to her donation page.

Adult Bible Class Leaders: Oct. 13 – Pastor Scott, Oct. 20 – Bob Serpas, Oct. 27 – John Cangelosi, Nov. 3 – Joe Schradie, Nov. 10 – John Stow

Readings for Sunday, Oct. 13 (Prop. 23), 18^th Sunday after Pentecost: For those who wish to prepare for Sunday’s lessons, please read Ruth 1:1–19a, Psalm 111, 2 Tim. 2:1–13, Luke 17:11–19

Faith Returns Thanks to God and Worships Him in the Person of Christ Jesus: Jesus comes in mercy and, by His Word, heals you in body and soul. “Go and show yourselves to the priests,” for you are cleansed (Luke 17:14), and you are granted access to the Lord’s temple. It is “at Jesus’ feet, giving him thanks” (Luke 17:16), that you worship God, for Christ Jesus is your great High Priest; His body is the true temple. In Him, you “find rest, each of you in the house of her husband” (Ruth 1:9), for the Lord has “visited his people and given them food” (Ruth 1:6). The person of Jesus Christ lodges Himself in holy food — bread and wine for believers to eat and drink. You lodge where Jesus lodges; His Father is your God, His people are your people. Death cannot part you from Him because His death and resurrection are eternally yours through Holy Baptism. “Remember Jesus Christ, risen from the dead” (2 Tim. 2:8). As surely as death could not hold Him, so surely “the word of God is not bound” (2 Tim. 2:9). His Gospel is entrusted “to faithful men, who will be able to teach others also” (2 Tim. 2:2), so that you “may obtain the salvation that is in Christ Jesus” (2 Tim. 2:10). Such is the confession of faith for all the saints, who believe, teach and confess the one Lord and Savior — Jesus Christ.

Walk His Way: SED Jr. High Gathering: November 15-17, 2019, Virginia Beach, VA. Don’t miss out on this great opportunity for Junior High youth to meet others from all over our district. Along with incredible speakers, youth will enjoy activities like Gaga ball, laser tag, service projects, worship, dance party, talent show and much more. We hope you will join us in this annual Jr. High District youth event! Look for more information and register on the District Website: or contact DCE Wesley Spottiswood or DCE Beth Agner at 919-554-8109. Early registration rates are available through Oct. 9, 2019.

Adult Bible Class Leaders: Oct. 6 – Dave Neely, Oct. 13 – Pastor Scott, Oct. 20 – Bob Serpas, Oct. 27 – John Cangelosi, Nov. 3 – Joe Schradie, Nov. 10 – John Stow

Readings for Sunday, Oct. 6 (Prop. 22), 17^th Sunday after Pentecost: For those who wish to prepare for Sunday’s lessons, please read Hab. 1:1–4; 2:1–4, Psalm 62, 2 Tim. 1:1–14, Luke 17:1–10

We Walk by Faith, and Not by Sight, in the Peace of Christ’s Forgiveness: We are surrounded by “destruction and violence” (Hab. 1:3) because the Law “is paralyzed, and justice never goes forth” (Hab. 1:4). In fact, the Law cannot rescue us from our enemies; it is our fiercest enemy of all. Therefore, not by sight, experience or feeling, nor by works, “the righteous shall live by his faith” (Hab. 2:4). “Temptations to sin are sure to come” (Luke 17:1), but as often as we sin, the Lord rebukes us, turns us to repentance and forgives us. We pray that He would thus “increase our faith” (Luke 17:5). And indeed, He does! Though we are His “unworthy servants” (Luke 17:10), He prepares His Supper for us, dresses us properly and gives us His body and blood to eat and drink. He appoints pastors for us, “by the will of God according to the promise of the life that is in Christ Jesus” (2 Tim. 1:1).For the Gospel brings “life and immortality to light” (2 Tim. 1:10). This we believe. Therefore, “follow the pattern of the sound words that you have heard,” by which He guards you “in the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus” (2 Tim. 1:13).

Walk His Way: SED Jr. High Gathering: November 15-17, 2019, Virginia Beach, VA. Don’t miss out on this great opportunity for Junior High youth to meet others from all over our district. Along with incredible speakers, youth will enjoy activities like Gaga ball, laser tag, service projects, worship, dance party, talent show and much more. We hope you will join us in this annual Jr. High District youth event! Look for more information and register on the District Website: or contact DCE Wesley Spottiswood or DCE Beth Agner at 919-554-8109. Early registration rates are available through Oct. 9, 2019.

Men of Advent’s Bible Study Retreat is scheduled for Nov. 1-3, 2019. We have currently reserved 10 rooms for 20 attendees at the Trinity Center in Salter Path, NC. We also encourage anyone to invite friends to join the retreat. The weather should be excellent on the Carolina coast this time of year! If you plan to attend or have any questions, please talk to Bill Ackerman, Dave Neely, or John Stow.

Touched by Grace is a clinic designed to serve the medical, physical, and spiritual needs of guests who attend. This will be held at Grace Lutheran Church-Durham tomorrow Saturday, September 28 from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Many helpers are needed to make Touched by Grace a success. You can sign up to help and find out more info on training, etc. here. Training will be available in the morning before the event starts.

Readings for Sunday, September 29, St. Michael and All Angels: For those who wish to prepare for Sunday’s lessons, please read Dan. 10:10–14,12:1–3, Psalm 91, Rev. 12:7–12, Luke 10:17–20

Our Father in Heaven Protects His Children by Giving His Holy Angels Charge Over Them: We live in “a time of trouble” (Dan. 12:1), in the midst of great tribulation; for Satan and his wicked angels have been thrown out of heaven and have come down to earth “in great wrath,” with woeful “temptations to sin” and with constant accusations (Rev. 12:8–12; Matt. 18:7). Even so, we are encouraged by the presence and protection of St. Michael and the holy angels, whom God sends to help us in the strife (Dan. 10:11–13). By “the authority of his Christ,” His holy angels guard and keep us in body and soul. These heavenly servants of God preserve His human messengers on earth, the ministers of “the blood of the Lamb,” against all the power of the enemy; for by “the word of their testimony,” the Church is saved and the devil is defeated (Rev. 12:10–11; Luke 10:18–19). By their preaching and Baptism of repentance, the old Adam and the old evil foe are “drowned in the depth of the sea” (Matt. 18:6); and as God raised Christ Jesus from the dead, so are His people delivered and raised from the dust of the earth through the forgiveness of their sins (Dan. 12:1–3).

Worship this Sunday: This Sunday Pastor Scott will be leading worship!! Welcome back! We will begin using Divine Service, Setting One starting on page 151 of LSB.

Thank You from the Lohmans: Dear People of Advent, We are so appreciative of all the love received from you. Thank You! Many sent up prayers. Some sent cards. Others baked bread or pies. Some sent great dinners. Some lent books. Others gave flowers. Some visited us. Others worked behind-the-scenes. Etcetera, Etcetera! You all sent love. We are grateful. Again, THANK YOU! Pastor Scott and Gina Lohman and Family.

Touched by Grace is a clinic designed to serve the medical, physical, and spiritual needs of guests who attend. This will be held at Grace Lutheran Church-Durham on Saturday, September 28 from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Many helpers are needed to make Touched by Grace a success. You can sign up to help and find out more info on training, etc. here.

Adult Bible Leaders: Sept. 22 – Joe Schradie; Sept. 29 – John Stow

Readings for Sunday, September 22 (Prop. 20), 15^th Sunday after Pentecost: For those who wish to prepare for Sunday’s lessons, please read Amos 8:4–7, Psalm 113, 1 Tim. 2:1–15, Luke 16:1–15

The Lord Is Rich in His Grace and Mercy: Because God, our Savior, “desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth” (1 Tim. 2:4), He urges “that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people” (1 Tim. 2:1). Christians should so pray “without anger or quarreling,” but “adorn themselves in respectable apparel, with modesty and self-control” (1 Tim. 2:8, 9). For the Lord does not forget “the poor of the land” (Amos 8:4). He remembers them according to the foolishness of the cross. “For what is exalted among men is an abomination in the sight of God” (Luke 16:15). Though we try to justify ourselves “before men,” God knows our sinful hearts and calls us to repentance (Luke 16:15). Though we are “not strong enough to dig,” and we are “ashamed to beg” (Luke 16:3), He justifies us by His grace and welcomes us into His “eternal dwellings” (Luke 16:9). More shrewd than even “the sons of this world” (Luke 16:8), He requires His stewards of the Gospel to bestow forgiveness freely.

Worship Leader: Pastor Williamson will lead worship on September 15. Pastor Scott Lohman returns to lead worship next Sunday, September 22.

PORCH: Upcoming sort dates – September 16, October 14, November 18, December 16. Please bring non-perishables and canned goods. These items are taken to those with food insecurity needs in the area.

Touched by Grace is a clinic designed to serve the medical, physical, and spiritual needs of guests who attend. This will be held at Grace Lutheran Church-Durham on Saturday, September 28 from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Many helpers are needed to make Touched by Grace a success. You can sign up to help and find out more info on training, etc. here.

Adult Bible Leaders: Sept. 15 – John Cangelosi; Sept. 22 – Joe Schradie; Sept. 29 – John Stow

Readings for Sunday, September 15 (Prop. 19), 14^th Sunday after Pentecost: For those who wish to prepare for Sunday’s lessons, please read Ezek. 34:11–24, Psalm 119:169–176, 1 Tim. 1:(5–11) 12–17, Luke 15:1–10

Jesus Christ Is the Great Shepherd of His Sheep: “The saying is trustworthy and deserving of full acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners” (1 Tim. 1:15). As He had mercy on Paul, in order to “display his perfect patience” (1 Tim. 1:16), so also does He seek out His sheep “from all places where they have been scattered on a day of clouds and thick darkness” (Ezek. 34:12). To deliver His flock, He “will seek the lost, … bring back the strayed, … bind up the injured, and … strengthen the weak” (Ezek. 34:16), and “they shall no longer be a prey” (Ezek. 34:22). He sets over them one great Good Shepherd, the Son of David, who “shall feed them and be their shepherd” (Ezek. 34:23). For Christ Jesus is the one man who, “having a hundred sheep, if he has lost one of them,” would “leave the ninety-nine in the open country, and go after the one that is lost, until he finds it” (Luke 15:4). When He finds the lost one and brings it home rejoicing, “the angels of God” and all the company of heaven rejoice with Him, with great joy (Luke 15:7, 10).

Pastor Scott is on medical leave. In Pastor Scott’s absence, Advent Worship will be led by, Pastor McDaniels on September 8 and Pastor Williamson on September 15. If pastoral assistance is needed during the week, please contact the Elders: John Cangelosi or John Stow.

Rally Day is this Sunday, September 8. Most activities will resume after summer break including:

Sunday School and Adult Bible Class – Sunday, September 8, 9:15 a.m. Classes will be offered for all ages. Adult Bible Study Leaders: Sept. 8 – Bob Serpas; Sept. 15 – John Cangelosi; Sept. 22 – Joe Schradie; Sept. 29 – John Stow

Men’s Bible Study – Tuesday, September 10 at 10:00 a.m. Please contact John Cangelosi for further information.

Women’s Evening Bible Study – The Women’s Group continues to meet on Tuesdays at 7:00 p.m. Contact Karen Baker for further information.

Choir Rehearsal – Wednesday, September 11 at 7:00 p.m. Everyone is welcome. Please join us!

Readings for Sunday, September 8 (Prop. 18), 13^th Sunday after Pentecost: For those who wish to prepare for Sunday’s lessons, please read Deut. 30:15–20, Psalm 1, Philemon 1–21, Luke 14:25–35

Christ Jesus Has Paid the Cost of Discipleship for You: A disciple of Jesus Christ will “bear his own cross” (Luke 14:27) and follow the Lord through death into life. Discipleship is costly because it crucifies the old man with “all that he has” (Luke 14:33), in order to raise up the new man in Christ. The disciple disavows “his own father and mother and wife and children and brothers and sisters, yes, and even his own life” (Luke 14:26), in deference to Christ. That way of the cross is impossible, except that Christ Jesus has already paid the cost. His cross is set before you as “life and good, death and evil” (Deut. 30:15). Taking up His cross is to “choose life, that you and your offspring may live, loving the Lord your God, obeying his voice and holding fast to him” (Deut. 30:19–20). To live that life in Christ is also to bear His cross in love, “that your goodness might not be by compulsion but of your own accord” (Philemon 14).

Pastor Scott is on medical leave. In Pastor Scott’s absence, Advent Worship will be led by, Pastor Lineberger on September 1, Pastor McDaniels on September 8, and Pastor Williamson on September 15. If pastoral assistance is needed during the week, please contact the Elders: John Cangelosi or John Stow.

Rally Day will be on Sunday, September 8. Most activities will resume after summer break including:

Sunday School and Adult Bible Class – Sunday, September 8, 9:15 a.m. Classes will be offered for all ages. Adult Bible Study Leaders: Sept. 8 – Bob Serpas; Sept. 15 – John Cangelosi; Sept. 22 – Joe Schradie; Sept. 29 – John Stow

Men’s Bible Study – Tuesday, September 10 at 10:00 a.m. Please contact John Cangelosi for further information.

Women’s Evening Bible Study – The Women’s Group continues to meet on Tuesdays at 7:00 p.m. Contact Karen Baker for further information.

Choir Rehearsal – Wednesday, September 11 at 7:00 p.m. Everyone is welcome. Please join us!

Sunday School Help Needed: Teachers and assistants are needed for the K-2nd grade classes. If you have any questions, please contact Christine Struckmeyer or Carolyn Walker. We also need a teacher for the teenage class as Jonathan has departed for college. Please pray on this as growing and feeding young minds is what Jesus would have us do. Thank you.

Readings for Sunday, September 1 (Prop. 17), 12^th Sunday after Pentecost: For those who wish to prepare for Sunday’s lessons, please read Prov. 25:2–10, Psalm 131, Heb. 13:1–17, Luke 14:1–14

We Are Humbled and Exalted by the Cross of Christ: “Everyone who exalts himself will be humbled,” Jesus proclaims, but “he who humbles himself will be exalted” (Luke 14:11). For your hope is in the name of the Lord, who humbled Himself unto death on the cross and was exalted in His resurrection. So, are you humbled by His cross, and “at the resurrection of the just,” He will say to you, “Friend, move up higher” (Luke 14:10, 13–14)? By His grace, the King will honor you “in the presence of a noble,” where your eyes will gaze upon the Prince, His dearly beloved Son (Prov. 25:7). As He has dealt so graciously with you, “do not neglect to do good and to share what you have” (Heb. 13:16) and “do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers” (Heb. 13:2). Humble yourself and exalt your neighbor.