On June 13, 1525, Martin Luther married Katharina von Bora, establishing a profound example of Christian marriage as a sacred vocation. Their partnership embodied mutual respect, faithful companionship, hospitality, and spiritual ministry. Luther emphasized marriage as a reflection of Christ’s relationship with His Church, calling couples to mutual love and support, grounded in God’s sustaining grace. As we commemorate the 500th anniversary of Martin and Katie Luther’s marriage, the North American Lutheran Church (NALC) renews its commitment to strengthening the vocation of marriage and supporting families in their journey of discipleship and honoring marriage as a spiritual vocation shaped by grace, while prayerfully supporting those experiencing separation or divorce.
This year, the 500th anniversary of Martin Luther’s marriage to Katharina von Bora was commemorated on June 13, 2025. Their marriage was an event that helped reform not only the Church, but the Christian household itself. Martin and Katie’s marriage became a living witness to faith, companionship, and the daily practice of grace.
To mark this historic anniversary, our congregation will join the NALC in observing a Vocation of Marriage Sunday during this Season after Pentecost. The NALC is inviting every congregation to take part in planning a special Sunday to honor the vocation of marriage, affirm the dignity of all Christian households, and strengthen the Church’s witness to covenantal love. St. Jacob’s is planning a unique Sunday service for July 6th, with special liturgical materials, Scripture reflections, prayers, and even a rite for affirming marriage vows during worship. Support and strengthening of Christian families is central to living in faith together. Therefore, whether you are young or old, married or unmarried, widowed or divorced, this Sunday is for you.
Other Happenings Archive
The Vocation of Marriage Sunday
Posted July 1, 2025 By adminMidweek Bible Study Returns
Posted July 1, 2025 By adminOur Midweek Bible Study will resume on Wednesday, July 2nd beginning at 9:30 AM in the church office conference room. Our topic for study will be Recognizing Jesus in the Old Testament. This seven week study is for anyone who desires to learn more of how the Son of God is revealed to us through the books of the Old Testament. There are no special materials required. Just bring along your Bible and a desire to have a healthy and faithful conversation centered on the revelation of Jesus through the writings of Moses, the Psalms and prophets.
Up and Going
Posted July 1, 2025 By adminTwenty-four members and guests gathered in the Fellowship Hall on June 12th at 11:00 AM to enjoy a very special lunch. Lunch was a fish fry cooked onsite by Gerald, assisted by Ann and Leon. The fish were caught out of Ann’s pond by Ann and prepared by Ann. She put the magic touch on them. Other sides and desserts were provided by other members. Our meal was simply delicious. You can’t beat a good fish fry! Special thanks to Ann, Gerald, and Leon.
After lunch, we gathered for devotions by Helen , Team Leader. She chose the Bible reading from Matthew 4, verses 18 and 19. Devotional reading was from Max Lucado’s Experiencing the Heart of Jesus, week 20: “Freedom from Shame.” Peter is changed by Jesus from a fisherman into a fisher of men.
Business was conducted. Gary gave the Treasurer’s report. Cards were signed for Betty Ann’s 94th birthday; sympathy cards for Bryan, Janet, Ann and Elizabeth; and a get-well card to Miriam.
After some fish stories, we closed with goodbyes and good wishes. The July meeting will be held on Thursday, July 10th at 11:00 AM in the Fellowship Hall. The theme will be 4th of July picnic so please dress patriotically and bring picnic lunch items to share.
Helen Team Leader
Up and Going
St. Jacob’s Lutheran Church Council Meeting Briefs June 3, 2025
Posted July 1, 2025 By adminParking Lot Update (Provided by Danny Shealy)
- The following permits have been submitted and fees paid.
- Applicant Certification Application
- Storm Water Maintenance Agreement
- DHEC’s Notice of Intent for Property Disturbance
- DOT Encroachment Permit
- Still have the Landscape and Zoning Permit to complete.
- We will have to build a 1-acre retention pond.
- Looking at a Sediment Reduction Structure but may be able to reduce the retention pond to one-half acre.
- Talked with the contractor and he is still interested. Will require new pricing with the pond and retention drain structure.
Good Things at St. Jacob’s for May
- New members
- New baby
- Pastor teaching the kids Sunday School
- Carnations for all the mothers at church and at Generations
Pastor’s Report
- Pastor will be on vacation June 4th-12th for daughter’s wedding.
- Special offering on Sunday, June 15th for the Congo – Ice Bucket Challenge.
- Special service tentatively scheduled for Sunday, June 22nd – NALC Vocation of Marriage Sunday.
- June 29th – pulpit swap between St. Jacob’s and Christiana in Salsbury.
- Pastor also shared an amendment that will be presented at Convocation in Pittsburg. He will schedule an information sharing meeting with the congregation to discuss the amendment and determine the church’s vote.
Congregation Meeting
- Sanctuary renovations – presented and approved by congregation.
- Ratify the amendment for two delegates to attend convocation. Amendment approved.
Lutheran Women
Posted June 24, 2025 By adminThe Lutheran Women will not meet in June or July. August 10th will be the annual outing at Zorba’s. A Third Sunday meetings will resume on September 21st. All women of St. Jacob’s are welcome and encouraged to join us for fellowship.
Into the Liturgy, part 9
Posted June 20, 2025 By adminThe Nunc Dimittis
As Joseph and Mary presented Jesus at the temple, Simeon beheld the fulfillment of God’s promise to send his Messiah. Simeon, having remained in the temple throughout his advanced years, gazed upon the infant Savior, praising God. Like Simeon, the Church looks upon her Savior as she receives Christ’s body and blood through the Sacrament of the Altar. We give thanks to God, for through the life, death, and resurrection of Christ we receive the full measure of God’s forgiveness and grace. Therefore, in the words of Simeon, we can depart in peace, God’s Word has been fulfilled.
The Benediction
As God instructed the priest Aaron (Numbers 6), God calls his ordained servant to pronounce the LORD’s blessing upon his people. God imparts his name upon the congregation, sending them back into the world with his peace and protection. Worshipers return to daily life filled with the promise of God’s countenance (his presence and favor).
The Exhortation
With the Divine Service now concluded, the children of God are called to be living examples of Christ’s love engaged in his Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20). As we return to daily living, Christians are called to “Go in peace to serve the Lord.” We serve God by sharing the good news of the Gospel with the world while loving and serving our neighbor.
St. Jacob’s Youth Leading Worship
Posted June 14, 2025 By adminOn Sunday June 29th, our St. Jacob’s Youth from grades 6 and higher will be leading us in worship. We are grateful for the many wonderful and talented kids we have in our church family. Please plan on attending and offer your prayers of support for our youth as they grow in faith and service to the greater church.
Up and Going
Posted June 7, 2025 By adminFifteen members and guests gathered in the Fellowship Hall on May 8th at 11:00 AM for the monthly meeting of the Up and Going. Helen, Team Leader, welcomed everyone and introduced the program leader Ms. Debra Brown.
Helen gave the devotions from Max Lucado’s Bible study entitled “Experiencing The Heart of Jesus”. The reading came from a section entitled “God’s Promises”. The Bible reading was from Matthew, the 19th chapter, and ended with prayers. A short business section followed.
Gerald offered grace for our meal. Lunch was an awesome covered dish meal consisting of a large variety of meats, vegetables, side dishes and desserts. Everything was so delicious.
Our program guest was Debra Brown from Boland’s Ace Hardware. Debra is the gifted specialist over the nursery and plant section as well as the bird accessories, yard flags and yard decorations. She spoke to us about flowers and plants and their proper care. We asked many questions, all of which Debra graciously answered. She brought a large number of beautiful items from Boland’s and explained how to use and enjoy them. We were all impressed with these beautiful and useful treasures. At the conclusion of Debra’s presentation, each person was given the item of their choice. We were thrilled with these lovely gifts, now ours to use and treasure. Our special thanks to Debra for such an enjoyable time with us.
The June meeting will be on the 2nd Thursday, June 12th at 11:00 AM in the Fellowship Hall. Lunch will be a fish fry. Ann Lindler will provide the fish and Gerald will be the chief cook. Everyone is asked to provide needed items and side dishes or desserts. Gerald will instruct us on how to fry fish. Look forward to seeing you then.
Helen
Team Leader for Up and Going
Youth News
Posted June 7, 2025 By adminOur youth meet again on Sunday, June 22nd from 5:00—7:00 PM. Supper will be provided. We will enjoy games, and plan worship for the following Sunday, June 29th. We will also explore how God can use even the hard times in our lives for His good. Come enjoy an evening with your friends and bring a guest.
Vacation Bible School
Posted June 5, 2025 By admin
Come join our Alaskan adventure Monday, June 23rd through Thursday, June 26th. A light supper will be served each night starting at 5:45 PM in the Fellowship Hall. Instruction will begin at 6:30 PM and ends at 8:00 PM. There will be fun, fellowship, activities, games, crafts, science experiments, and music. We will study scripture that reveals that Jesus is a faithful friend that we can always trust. Be part of our adventure as we see majestic mountains, racing rivers, sparkling glaciers, and the northern lights. There are classes for all ages! Bring a friend! Don’t miss the fun. Pastor David will lead an adult class in the church nave. Join the members of our church family as we enjoy our time together learning more about the love God showers upon his people through our Lord Jesus Christ.
Anyone who is willing and able to help out during the week should contact Sherrie McTeer. There are plenty of opportunities to serve.
