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St. Jacob’s 250th Anniversary Year-long Celebration

Posted May 10, 2026 By admin

Decades Day was a unique experience as we celebrated our collective past. Thank you to Mr. Dwayne Swygert whose father was Pastor at St. Jacob’s in the late 1950’s. Dwayne reminisced about his younger days as a boy living in the old parsonage as his father ministered to the St. Jacob’s, Mt. Olivet Parish.

This month our 250th anniversary celebration continues as we again welcome a special guest Pastor. Pastor Marty Ramey, a former Interim Pastor for our congregation will visit and deliver the sermon on Sunday, May 17th . An old timey potluck congregational luncheon will be served following the service of worship, and everyone is invited to attend. The Lutheran Women will provide fried chicken; everyone is asked to bring your favorite old timey side dish and/or dessert. Join your church family as we continue our year-long celebration as we give thanks to God for our congregation’s long history in the service of the Gospel. Please make sure to attend each of these events and invite your friends and neighbors to join us. Below is a list of our remaining planned events.

  • May 17th – Guest preacher Rev. Marty Ramey (former interim pastor); an old timey potluck congregational luncheon.
  • June 7 th – Luther League, LCY, Youth celebration; members of past groups will be invited to attend church service; hamburger meal will be provided after service.
  • July 19th – Guest preacher Rev. Randy Drafts (former seminarian and field worker); congregational dinner following worship.
  • August 16th – Guest preacher Rev. David Tholstrup (former SCMD Dean), congregational dinner following worship.
  • September 20th – Congregational Outreach Event; blankets for residents at Generations.
  • October 25th – Homecoming and Anniversary Sunday, guest preacher NALC Presiding Bishop Dan Selbo; special catered congregational dinner following worship.
  • November TBD – Golden Agers Recognition and Celebration.
Filed in Fellowship, Other Happenings, Worship and Music, Worship Service

St. Jacob’s 250th Anniversary Celebration – Decades Day

Posted May 9, 2026 By admin

Our 250th anniversary celebration for April was Decades Day. We honored the historic Liturgy and worship of past generations from the foundations of St. Jacob’s to the recent decades gone by. During worship, we used a historic liturgy written by The Reverend Henry Melcior Muhelberg in the mid 1700’s.

Congregation members were encouraged to wear old fashioned clothing, and we observed the traditions of St. Jacob’s earliest days with women sitting on the left (choir side) and men on the right (pulpit side) sides of the aisle. We also welcomed a guest speaker, Duane Swygert, who spoke of his experience at St. Jacob’s while his father was Pastor in the late 1950’s

Filed in Other Happenings, Worship Service

From Your Pastor’s Heart

Posted May 6, 2026 By admin

Peter, standing with the eleven, lifted up his voice and addressed them: “Men of Judea and all who dwell in Jerusalem, let this be known to you, and give ear to my words.” Acts 2:14

On the Sunday of Pentecost, the day we celebrate God’s gift of the Holy Spirit, we also celebrate the birth of God’s Church. In our worship, our learning and our serving, we see God’s Spirit in action. We feel the power of God’s love as the Spirit comes like the rush of a violent wind, stirring the hearts and minds of God’s people to faithfulness. These are the themes of Pentecost; the power of God’s Spirit blowing through the lives of God’s people.

It isn’t about wearing your red dress or shirt to church on Pentecost Sunday. It isn’t about confirming our youth as they complete their initial study of the catechism. It’s about the Holy Spirit of God blowing in the doors of the hearts and minds of God’s people, rearranging the furniture of our lives and filling us with all the confidence, strength, excitement and assurance the disciples had in order to share the good news of God’s redemption.

Think about the world around you. Think about the things you have heard and seen. Think about all the times in your life when you thought you were at wits end. In these instances, don’t you think the world needs to hear the good news of great joy that angels proclaimed to shepherds so long ago? In so many ways and in so many instances, God makes his presence and power known. Often it comes to us in the quiet moments of our lives. At other times it comes in ways so clear and powerful that no matter what, people can know and understand that God’s mercy and grace through Christ our Lord are real promises made to all who believe. God’s promises are real and his love lasts forever.

When God poured out the Holy Spirit upon the disciples in Jerusalem, amazing things began to happen. Suddenly, men who seemed to feel inadequate and frightened were filled with a bold confidence only God can provide. They took to the streets and faced the crowds they were, just moments before, afraid to confront. They spoke of the Old Testament prophecies, the faith of people such as Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. They proclaimed the power of the Risen Christ, a power unmatched by the evil and brokenness of our world. And the people listened and believed.

The gospel of our Lord is the best news you are ever going to get in your life. The time you first realized God’s grace is for you, that you have been rescued from the consequences of sin forever, is as good as it gets.

When you are young, prom is a big moment. Some of us know kids who have recently gone to their first prom. Guess what, as good as the prom was, God claiming you to be his child is better. When you get older, graduation comes with all of its pomp and circumstance. Guess what, it can’t compare with all the glory of heaven. There are still bigger moments ahead in your lives. College, your first real love, engagement, marriage, the purchase of a home, and the birth of a child. You know what? All of these are wonderful blessings from our loving God, yet because of Christ Jesus, the best is yet to come.

People of God, all of these are wonderful events; they are milestone moments, monumental achievements, and times of great joy. But if that is where you live, if these are the most important times in your life, you’ve missed the boat. None of these can even compare with the fact that through Christ Jesus, God has saved you from sin and death, made you holy in his sight and prepared a heavenly home for you. Nothing can compare with the fact that through Christ Jesus, God has saved your life for all time. That’s good news, that’s exciting.

On the day of Pentecost, as we celebrate God’s gift of the Holy Spirit, let us pray that God stirs us to such faithfulness that we cannot help but tell others the good news of salvation through Christ Jesus. As we strive to follow the example of our Lord Jesus, may we continue to love others as we are loved, feed the hungry, care for the sick and minister to those who are least of all.

May we continue to pray: “Come Holy Spirit, kindle in us the fire of your love!”

Grace to you and peace,

Pastor David Nuottila

Filed in Bible Study, From the Pastor’s Heart, Other Happenings, Pastor, Worship Service

Up and Going

Posted May 5, 2026 By admin

Nine Up and Going members met at Hawg Heaven Barbeque Restaurant on Thursday, April 16th for the April meeting. Devotions were given by Team Leader Helen Lindler based on God Isn’t Finished with Me Yet; there is more to come. There was prayer and then a meal blessing; we prayed together “The Lord’s Prayer”.

Business was discussed.

All enjoyed a delicious and bountiful buffet meal, but most of all each other’s company and the conversations around the table. Goodbyes were said and off everyone went to shop, get strawberries, run errands and head home. We all enjoyed our time together.

The May meeting will be held on Thursday, May 14th at the Golden Bay Seafood Restaurant in Irmo at 6164 Saint Andrews Road. Please meet there at 11:00 AM.

Helen

Team Leader for Up and Going

Filed in Bible Study, Fellowship, Other Happenings, Up and Going

Lutheran Women

Posted May 5, 2026 By admin

On Sunday, May 17th, the Women’s Group will be hosting an “Old Timey Luncheon” in honor of our 250th Anniversary. We are asking that you furnish an old timey side dish and/or a dessert. Some suggestions include green beans, butter beans, some type of squash, potato salad, liver nips, homemade bread or cornbread. Our group is furnishing fried chicken. So, pull out your cookbooks and look for some old Dutch Fork recipes. If you need any suggestions or recipes please call Phyllis, Joan or Patricia.
We are looking forward to seeing everyone. So come and enjoy some delicious food and wonderful fellowship!

Filed in Bible Study, Fellowship, Lutheran Women, Other Happenings

Devotion for May – Jesus said, “Go”

Posted May 4, 2026 By admin

Read Matthew 28:16-20

When we hear our Lord give the Great Commission, we understand finally that our response to Christ’s resurrection is to go into the world and tell others the good news of God’s salvation. Most Christians can quote this passage from memory; those who cannot certainly know where to find it in the Bible. But when congregations hear Christ’s command, the reaction can be varied.

As the remaining disciples gathered on the mountain with Jesus, Matthew tells us they worshiped him, but some doubted. Rest assured, the same condition exists within the Church today. Jesus says, “Go.” Yet, some doubt they are strong enough in their faith. Others doubt they have the necessary knowledge of the scriptures. Still others feel they lack the training and skill needed to make disciples. What it boils down to is a lack of faith. Suffice it to say, all baptized children of God are equipped to fulfill the Great Commission. All are blessed with the power of the Holy Spirit, all that is needed is belief in God and relying upon his presence. Doubt can be a strong obstacle to overcome, but it’s no match for the Holy Spirit. All this said, the command given by Jesus stands. Our Lord says, “Go.”

As followers of Christ, we are to go into the world teaching all Christ commanded. The good news is that you are equipped, you do not go alone. Jesus is with you just as he was with the apostles so long ago. Finally, doubt and fear are overcome with faith and love. Christ said, “Go.” And so we go, remembering Christ is with us even to the end of the age.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, overcome our doubts and help us live in your peace and presence. Amen.

Filed in Bible Study, Fellowship, Missions, Outreach, Pastor, Worship Service

Carolinas Mission Region Convocation

Posted May 4, 2026 By admin

The annual convocation for our Mission Region will take place at Christiana Lutheran Church in Salisbury, NC. Dates for the convocation are Friday to Saturday, May 1st – 2nd. Business of the mission region includes the reception of the Treasurer’s Report, a report from our NALC area Bishop’s Assistant as well as NALC updates provided by Bishop Dan Selbo. The 2026-2027 Mission Region Budget will also be considered along with a vote concerning changes to the Mission Region Bylaws. St. Jacob’s delegates accompanying Pastor David to this year’s convocation are Brandon and Mark.

Filed in NALC, Other Happenings

St. Jacob’s Lutheran Church Council Meeting Briefs April 7, 2026

Posted May 4, 2026 By admin

Good Things at St. Jacob’s for March

  • Start of retaining pond
  • Lent
  • Visit from Pastor Henry Pawluk
  • Pastor teaching the Up and Going Sunday School class
  • New member joined, Earl Bouknight

Pastor’s Report:

  • Will be teaching the Children’s Sunday School class this week.
  • Will be on vacation May 11th -16th .
  • He and Angela became grandparents again and will be celebrating their grandson’s, Bennet David Gobble, baptism at St. Jacob’s on May 24th.

Treasurer’s Report:

  • Offering is behind from last year by approximately $17,000.
  • Overall expenditures slightly ahead of 2025 due to salary increases and annual payments of insurance, Quickbooks and Servant Keeper.
  • Annual payment of Servant Keeper has been paid and is higher than in previous years. With savings in Quickbooks recommend moving $225 from Quickbooks to Servant Keeper.
  • Endowment and invested funds – working with Thrivent to more easily manage church funds.

Ministry Team Reports

  • Christian Education
    • Refrigerator was ordered and installed in the nursery by the Property Team. Many thanks to Gerald and Danny for making this happen.
    • Staff support is submitting background checks for Sunday School and VBS teachers and volunteers.
    • VBS will be Monday, July 13th – Thursday, July 16th
      • Meal starting at 5:45 PM and VBS from 6:30-8:00 PM.
      • Theme is Illumination Station by Lifeway.
      • Team will be reaching out to finalize teachers and to find two more volunteers.
      • Will decorate for VBS on Sunday, July 12th at 3:00 PM.
    • Will sponsor Luther League, LCY, Youth celebration on Sunday, June 7th as part of the 250th anniversary. Past group members when Pastor Wessinger and Pastor Eargle served will be invited to our service and lunch.
    • Will now have Sunday School Assistants (1 or 2 adults) downstairs in classrooms.
    • Provided Temple Talk on Sunday, March 22nd .
    • Need volunteers for Nursery, VBS and Sunday School.
  • Congregational Care
    • Provided bereavement meal for Sharon Slice on Tuesday, March 24th .
    • Assisted with 250th anniversary meal on March 15th .
    • Helped set up Lutheran Men Easter breakfast.
  • Discipleship
    • Donated 24 Mercy Bags to We Care weighing 445 pounds.
    • The Disaster Relief Shed inventory has remained the same
  • Safety
    • Brief meeting held following the service to increase some security measures. This plan will place more attention on the parking area.
    • Batteries and pads for the AED have been ordered.
  • Staff Support
    • Job was posted for Digital Media and Livestream Coordinator position on the St. Jacob’s Facebook page. Also emailed information to Spring Hill High School, CATE Center, and Chapin High School.
    • There is a volunteer who has offered their services pro bono to create and update the St. Jacob’s website. Research for ideas on other church websites has been done and committee members will meet with this volunteer in April to discuss.
    • Help is needed from the council and congregation to promote Digital Media position. Anyone interested, please contact the church office.
  • Stewardship
    • Team Leader and Pastor are in the process of gathering team members.
    • Has received resources from the NALC.
    • Stewardship includes Time, Talent, Treasure and Testimonies.
  • Worship and Music
    • Updated manual for Altar care, including communion preparations, banners and paraments.
    • Provided flowers for the funeral of Karen Sutphin.
    • Have received $550 toward new hymnals.

Old Business:

  • Need two delegates for the Carolinas Mission Region meeting held in Salisbury, NC in May.

New Business:

  • Need to replace dumpster with a larger size dumpster, due to trash overflow and church being charged extra for the overflow.

Next scheduled meeting is Tuesday, May 5th at 6:30 PM in the church office.

Filed in Council Reports, Other Happenings

Confirmation Class of 2026

Posted May 4, 2026 By admin

We are drawing nearer to the conclusion of this round of Catechetical instruction and plans are being made for the confirmation and continued instruction of our confirmands. It’s important to understand that confirmation is in no way a sort of graduation or completion of study. Our confirmed youth are not expected to know everything about the Christian faith, the Scriptures and Lutheran Confessions. What is most important is that the seed for continued faith formation is planted and nurtured so as they grow, our youth will remain active in their faith. The congregation’s role is to continue to lead and instruct them according to the promises we all made upon the day of their Baptism.
The final date has not yet been set for Confirmation Day but will be determined in the coming weeks. Until then, please keep our confirmands in prayer that they will grow in the faith in which they were baptized.

Filed in Bible Study, LCY, Lutheran Church Youth

Lutheran Women

Posted April 20, 2026 By admin

On Sunday, May 17th, the Women’s Group will be hosting an “Old Timey Luncheon” in honor of our 250th Anniversary. We are asking that you furnish a food item and/or a dessert. Some suggestions include green beans, butter beans, some type of squash, potato salad, liver nips, homemade bread or cornbread. Our group is furnishing fried chicken, pound cake, coconut cake, coconut pies, pecan pies, sweet potato pies and banana pudding with meringue. So, pull out your cookbooks and look for some old Dutch Fork recipes. If you need any suggestions or recipes please call Phyllis, Joan or Patricia.

Filed in Bible Study, Fellowship, Lutheran Women, Other Happenings, Outreach
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