Emanuel Happenings

“It will get better.” We say that to try to comfort someone who is having a bad day (or maybe a whole string of bad days). Perhaps tomorrow will be better. But perhaps it’s worse. In this life, there really are no guarantees that things will get better. That isn’t the case with the life that is to come. That life isn’t just going to be better. It will be perfect. Since the seventh century, Christians have marked a day to celebrate those who have died in faith and now realize the perfect joys of heaven. It is called “All Saints’ Day.” We thank God for bringing our Christian loved ones out of the troubles and turmoil of this world and into eternal bliss and glory. And we ask God to preserve us in our faith so that we might one day join the saints in that place where life is far more than better. Want to hear more? See you this weekend: Saturday at 5:15 p.m. • Sunday at 8 a.m. • Sunday at 10:30 a.m. **Please remember that during renovation, worship is held in the school commons. If you ha

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Jesus repeatedly told his followers that living as his disciples would bring hardship. Living life according to God’s Law is going to make one appear odd in the eyes of the world, perhaps even evil. Sharing a message of mankind’s sin and God’s gracious salvation can cause offense. So why not just stay silent if that makes life easier? Why not keep our faith private? Answer: because we are going to live forever. In gratitude for Christ saving us and giving us eternal life, we share the gospel with others, hoping that they will believe and be saved too. Since we know we are going to live forever in the perfection of heaven, we don’t worry if being a witness for Christ brings hardship or even death. Martin Luther wanted to reform the false teachings of the church. He stood firm in the truth of the gospel, knowing it might cost him his life. But Luther knew that, thanks to Christ, he would live forever. So will we. Therefore, like Luther, let us live a life of courageous witness. Want to h

Calling all Emanuel volunteers! We're excited to celebrate the completion of our recent renovations with a Dedication Weekend on December 7th and 8th . To ensure everyone in New London and the surrounding communities knows about this special event, we need your help! Here's how you can make a difference: Pick up professionally printed flyers: Stop by the church office to grab some flyers promoting the Dedication Weekend. Become a community ambassador: Distribute flyers at local businesses! Think grocery stores, law offices, dentist offices, libraries, community centers, restaurants (and more!). Together, we can spread the word and invite everyone to join us for a weekend of: Fun-filled Open House: Explore our beautiful new spaces, enjoy refreshments, and connect with fellow members! (Saturday, 1:30 PM - 4:30 PM) Informative Presentations: Meet the people who brought our vision to life! (Saturday, 2:00 PM & 4:00 PM) Special Dedication Services: Be a part of officially d

“Live each day like it’s your last.” You have probably heard that advice. It sounds wise—an encouragement to take advantage of the time you have. However, that advice is completely backward. Because the reality is, thanks to Jesus, we have an unending amount of time. Let that sink in. Really think about it. Jesus has given you the gift of eternal life. You are going to live forever. If you really thought it was your last day, that belief would shape how you lived that day. In this series, let us consider how the gift of eternal life shapes how we live each day. Live like you’ll live forever! Oct 27 | Reformation Day - Live a Life of Fearless Witness Nov 3 | Live Knowing Life Only Gets Better Nov 10 | Live a Life of Startling Generosity Nov 17 | Live Free from the Fear of Judgment Nov 24 | Live a Life Faithful to Your King

At Emanuel, we're fortunate to have four dedicated pastors who are always available to support our spiritual journey. From baptisms and confirmations to weddings and funerals, they provide guidance and comfort through every life event. Our pastors are also actively involved in our community, visiting hospitals and nursing homes, teaching Bible classes, and delivering inspiring sermons based on God's Word. Their commitment to our spiritual well-being is a true blessing for our church family. As Proverbs 3:13 reminds us, "How blessed is the person who finds wisdom, the person who acquires understanding." Our pastors are a source of wisdom and understanding, guiding us along the path of righteousness. Appreciation boxes have been placed in the commons on the weekends of October 27 and November 3, for Pastors Mark Tiefel, Seth Dorn, Marcus Schulz, and Bill Heiges to share your well-wishes, thank-you notes, and monetary gifts. Any undesignated gifts will be disbursed betwe