May 3, 2026

For the weekly email, click here.

Today’s altar flowers are given to the glory of God and in celebration of the marriage of Rachel Clark and Christopher English by Linda & Craig Clark.  

Children’s Choir  (Grades 2–8) and Ye Little Saints & Singers  (Pre-K–Grade 1) TODAY at 9:30AM and Children’s Faith Formation (PreK–Grade 6) at 10:00 AM. All are welcome.

Luther Ringers, TODAY at 11:45 AM.

Forum: Immigration Justice, TODAY at 9:00 AM: Hear about advocacy issues including bills that NJ’s Coalition of Religious Leaders are working on for immigration justice. 

Summit’s AAPI Festival, TODAY, 4:00–6:00 PM on the Village Green: The Evangelism committee is organizing St. John’s members to be representatives of our congregation, to meet our neighbors, and to enjoy a fun night out! Sign up in the weekly email for this or any of the upcoming events.

Confirmation Class, TONIGHT, 5:30–7:30 PM.

Cross Roads Wednesdays Away Retreats include prayer and conversation and are open to all people interested in exploring new faith practices. On May 6, Deacon Walker is leading a session entitled, Color and Calm. See the weekly email to register and for more details.

Summit Interfaith Council Concert, May 11 at 7:00 PM, Temple Sinai, 208 Summit Avenue: Local houses of worship share music in a night to build community with Songs of Hope and Peace Spring Concert. The concert is free and a reception will follow.

Bridges Lunches: We are collecting sustainable lunch supplies to give to homeless individuals through Bridges Outreach. Sign up in the narthex or online to donate items and deliver to church no later than 8:00 AM on May 17. On Sunday, May 17 at 9:00 AM we will have an intergenerational event to pack 200 lunch bags.

Summit Chorale Concert, entitled Liberty and Justice for All Sunday, May 17 at 5:00 PM at St. John’s. Part of our Festival Music program and the Summit Chorale's season finale, this concert is part of our nation's 250 celebration. Tickets will be $25 in advance or $30 at the door. See the weekly email to buy tickets online.

Bridges Run, May 23. See the weekly email to sign up.

Diaper Drive for ‘Moms Helping Moms’, organized by the Junior League of Summit. Bring in new diapers of any size by May 31 and place them in the bin in the narthex.

Basic Spanish Class: Pastor Haydée will be leading a basic Spanish language class Wednesdays at 6:00 PM. New and returning participants welcome.

Fellowship Time Help Needed for our fellowship time (Sundays from 9:00 AM–Noon). We all need to pitch in and support this ministry. Sign up in the weekly email.

Worship Volunteers Needed: We have many opportunities for members to help lead in worship. All the signups can be found in the weekly email. Sign up today!

April 26, 2026

For the weekly email, click here.

Today’s altar flowers are given to the glory of God and in memory of Bertha & Paul Reiling by Joy Petzinger.

Forum—Let’s Talk About It, TODAY at 9:00 AM: Come for dialogue and ideas for how to respond to current events from our faith perspective.

Children’s Choir  (Grades 2–8) and Ye Little Saints & Singers  (Pre-K–Grade 1) TODAY at 9:30AM and Children’s Faith Formation (PreK–Grade 6) at 10:00 AM. All are welcome.

Choral Vespers, TODAY at 4:00 PM: Join the St. John’s Choir to celebrate Eastertide with the music of J.S. Bach and congregational hymns of the season.

Lunch Bunch, April 29 from Noon–2:00 PM: Bring a lunch, come for Bible study.

Forum: Immigration Justice, May 3 at 9:00 AM: Hear about advocacy issues including bills that NJ’s Coalition of Religious Leaders are working on for immigration justice. 

Cross Roads Wednesdays Away Retreats include prayer and conversation and are open to all people interested in exploring new faith practices. On May 6, Deacon Walker is leading a session entitled, Color and Calm. See the weekly email to register and for more details.

Summit’s AAPI Festival, May 9, 4:00–6:00 PM on the Village Green: The Evangelism committee is organizing St. John’s members to be representatives of our congregation, to meet our neighbors, and to enjoy a fun night out! Sign up in the weekly email .

Summit Interfaith Council Concert, May 11 at 7:00 PM, Temple Sinai, 208 Summit Avenue: Local houses of worship share music in a night to build community with Songs of Hope and Peace Spring Concert. St. John’s Choir will be participating. The concert is free and a reception will follow. Please bring non-perishables for the Loaves & Fishes Food Pantry.

Bridges Lunches: We are collecting sustainable lunch supplies to give to homeless individuals through Bridges Outreach. Sign up in the narthex or online to donate items and deliver to church no later than 8:00 AM on May 17. On Sunday, May 17 at 9:00 AM we will have an intergenerational event to pack 200 lunch bags.

Bridges Run, May 23. See the weekly email to sign up.

Diaper Drive for ‘Moms Helping Moms’ beginning on May 1, organized by the Junior League of Summit. Bring in new diapers of any size and place them in the bin in the narthex.

Basic Spanish Class: Pastor Haydée will be leading a basic Spanish language class Wednesdays at 6:00 PM. New and returning participants welcome.

Fellowship Time Help Needed for our fellowship time (Sundays from 9:00 AM–Noon). We all need to pitch in and support this ministry. Sign up in the weekly email.

Worship Volunteers Needed: We have many opportunities for members to help lead in worship. All the signups can be found in the weekly email. Sign up today!

April 19, 2026

For the weekly email, click here.

Forum: King of Instruments, TODAY at 9:00 AM: Christopher Harlow-Jennings, will share with us about the technical elements of pipe organs. This forum will be held in the organ gallery. Come get an up close look at our amazing instrument.

ASP Theme Training, TODAY at Noon.

Youth+Dinner, April 24 at 6:30 PM.

Forum—Let’s Talk About It, April 26 at 9:00 AM: Many of us feel frustrated, confused, and need a place to discuss. Come for dialogue and ideas for how to respond to current events from our faith perspective.

Choral Vespers, April 26 at 4:00 PM: Join the St. John’s Choir to celebrate Eastertide with the music of J.S. Bach and congregational hymns of the season.

Basic Spanish Class: Pastor Haydée will be leading a basic Spanish language class Wednesdays at 6:00 PM. New and returning participants welcome. 

Fellowship Time Help Needed for our fellowship time (Sundays from 9:00 AM–Noon). We all need to pitch in and support this ministry. Sign up in the weekly email.

Worship Volunteers Needed: We have many opportunities for members to help lead in worship. All the signups can be found in the weekly email. Sign up today!

April 12, 2026

Forum: An Immigration Story, TODAY at 9:00 AM: We will welcome Nicole Krenz-Malacre, a young adult member from St. Stephan’s Grace in Newark, who will share her family’s story as Latiné immigrants. This forum is aimed at youth and adults.

ASP Meeting, TODAY at Noon in the Youth Lounge.

Bienvenida a la Primavera, TODAY at 12:30 PM: Our Camino de Vida ministry is inviting Latiné youth and families from Summit for an afternoon of food, Latin music, and a conversation (in Spanish) about the importance of mental illness. All are welcome to lunch and the program. 

Confirmation, TONIGHT from 5:30–7:30PM.

Lunch Bunch, April 15 from Noon–2:00 PM: Bring a lunch, come for Bible study.

Forum: King of Instruments, April 19, 9:00 AM: Christopher Harlow-Jennings, will share with us about the technical elements of pipe organs. This forum will be held in the organ gallery. Come get an up close look at our amazing instrument.

Choral Vespers, April 26 at 4:00 PM: Join the St. John’s Choir to celebrate Eastertide with the music of J.S. Bach and congregational hymns of the season.

Basic Spanish Class: Pastor Haydée will be leading a basic Spanish language class Wednesdays at 6:00 PM. New and returning participants welcome. 

Fellowship Time Help Needed for our fellowship time (Sundays from 9:00 AM–Noon). We all need to pitch in and support this ministry. Sign up in the weekly email.

April 5, 2026

The Church Office will be closed April 6–10 and will reopen on Tuesday, April 14.

Easter Brunch Food Donations of egg casseroles, fruit, or baked goods are needed by April 4. Breakfast casseroles must be delivered by 8:45 AM Easter morning, marked “Easter Breakfast.” Specialty foods (nut free, gluten free, etc.) are also needed. Contact Jama Bowman, sign up online, or on the sheet in the entryway.

Presiding Bishop Yehiel Curry has recorded an Easter message to share with the entire ELCA. Click here to view the message.

Bishop Christa Compton has recorded a message for our whole NJ Synod, an invitation to experience the entirety of Holy Week and its deep meaning. Click here to view the message.

Easter Offering: Your regular offerings and special offerings are essential to this congregation’s ministry and the fulfillment of God’s mission. Your gifts allow this congregation to thrive as a vibrant place of worship, education, service, and community. We are counting on you to be generous. 

Community Food Bank Volunteer Day: You MUST contact Amy Tomlinson to sign up by April 9. The Social Justice/Social Ministry Committee has scheduled a volunteer day at the Community FoodBank of NJ at their Hillside location on April 25 from 11:00 AM - 1:30 PM. They can accommodate a total of 15 volunteers.

Anti-Racism Committee Meeting, April 9 at 7:00 PM.

Forum: An Immigration Story, April 12 at 9:00 AM: We will welcome Nicole Krenz-Malacre, a young adult member from St. Stephan’s Grace in Newark, who will share her family’s story as Latiné immigrants. This forum is aimed at youth and adults.

ASP Meeting, April 12 at Noon in the Youth Lounge.

Bienvenida a la Primavera, April 12 at 12:30 PM: Our Camino de Vida ministry is inviting Latiné youth and families from Summit for an afternoon of food, Latin music, and a conversation (in Spanish) about the importance of mental illness. All are welcome to lunch and the program. 

Confirmation, April 12 from 5:30–7:30PM.

Lunch Bunch, April 15 from Noon–2:00 PM: Bring a lunch, come for Bible study.

Forum: King of Instruments, April 19, 9:00 AM: Christopher Harlow-Jennings, will share with us about the technical elements of pipe organs. This forum will be held in the organ gallery. Come get an up close look at our amazing instrument.

Choral Vespers, April 26 at 4:00 PM: Join the St. John’s Choir to celebrate Eastertide with the music of J.S. Bach and congregational hymns of the season.

Basic Spanish Class: Pastor Haydée will be leading a basic Spanish language class Wednesdays at 6:00 PM. New and returning participants welcome. 

Fellowship Time Help Needed for our fellowship time (Sundays from 9:00 AM–Noon). We all need to pitch in and support this ministry. Sign up in the weekly email.

March 29, 2026

For the weekly email, click here.

A donation to the flower fund was given by Helen & Steve Sanders in honor of their anniversary.

Children’s Choir  (Grades 2–8) and Ye Little Saints & Singers  (Pre-K–Grade 1) TODAY at 9:30 AM and Children’s Faith Formation (PreK–Grade 6) at 10:00 AM. All are welcome.

Luther Ringers TODAY at 11:45 AM.

Lenten Collections Update:  355 cans of vegetables, fruit, and soup for Loaves and Fishes Food Pantry, 203 boxes of cereal for Summit’s GRACE, 44 gift cards for Family Promise. 

Caminando Unides en Cristo Spanish Bible Study, Thursdays at 8:00 PM via Zoom. Contact Pastor Haydée for more information.

Holy Work for Holy Week: Help is needed for 9 services in 8 days! We need brass polishers, ushers, assisting ministers, readers, candle preparers, chair arrangers, brunch bakers, and more! All skill levels are welcome Sign up in the narthex or in the weekly email.

Holy Week & Easter Worship Volunteers urgently needed: Please sign up in the weekly email.

Easter Brunch Food Donations of egg casseroles, fruit, or baked goods are needed by April 4. Breakfast casseroles must be delivered by 8:45 AM Easter morning, marked “Easter Breakfast.” Specialty foods (nut free, gluten free, etc.) are also needed. Contact Jama Bowman, sign up online, or on the sheet in the entryway.

Easter Offering: Your regular offerings and special offerings are essential to this congregation’s ministry and the fulfillment of God’s mission. Your gifts allow this congregation to thrive as a vibrant place of worship, education, service, and community. We are counting on you to be generous. 

Basic Spanish Class: Pastor Haydée will be leading a basic Spanish language class Wednesdays at 6:00 PM beginning April 8. New and returning participants welcome. 

An Immigration Story, April 12 at 9:00 AM: We will welcome Nicole Krenz-Malacre, a young adult member from St. Stephan’s Grace in Newark, who will share her family’s story as Latiné immigrants. This forum is aimed at youth and adults.

Bienvendia a la Primavera, April 12 at 12:30 PM: Our Camino de Vida ministry is inviting Latiné youth and families from Summit for an afternoon of food, Latin music, and a conversation (in Spanish) about the importance of mental illness. All are welcome to lunch and the program. 

Fellowship Time Help Needed for our fellowship time (Sundays from 9:00 AM–Noon). We all need to pitch in and support this ministry. Sign up in the weekly email.

Cross Roads Camp & Retreat Center brings people together in faith, friendship, and fun. See the weekly email for a link to camp registration, summer staff applications, family retreats, open houses, and the Bishop’s Cup.

March 22, 2026

For the weekly email, click here.

Easter Flower donations MUST BE IN TODAY. Sign up online or in the rear entryway.

Children’s Choir  (Grades 2–8) and Ye Little Saints & Singers  (Pre-K–Grade 1) TODAY at 9:30AM and Children’s Faith Formation (PreK–Grade 6) at 10:00 AM. All are welcome.

Luther Ringers TODAY at 11:45 AM.

ASP Meeting TODAY at Noon for new participants and youth with less than three trips and adults with less than two trips. Topics are Rules & Regulations and 3Ss.

Lunch Bunch, March 25 from Noon–2:00 PM: Bring a lunch, come for Bible study.

Soup for a Cause: Homemade soups and breads are available to buy between Sunday services during Lent. Proceeds benefit St. Stephan’s-Grace. See the weekly email to make soup or bread.

Lenten Collections: 300 cans of fruit, vegetables and soup for Loaves & Fishes; 200 boxes of cereal for GRACE; and 40 $25 Shoprite, Walmart or Target gift cards for Family Promise.

Last Lenten Midweek: Soup Supper Wednesday at 6:00 PM, service at 7:00 PM. See the weekly email or sign up in the rear entry to bring food.

Caminando Unides en Cristo Spanish Bible Study, Thursdays at 8:00 PM via Zoom. Contact Pastor Haydée for more information.

Holy Work for Holy Week: Help is needed for 9 services in 8 days! We need brass polishers, ushers, assisting ministers, readers, candle preparers, chair arrangers, brunch bakers, and more! All skill levels are welcome Sign up in the narthex or in the weekly email.

Holy Week & Easter Worship Volunteers urgently needed: Sign ups are available in the weekly email. Please sign up.

Easter Brunch Food Donations of egg casseroles, fruit, or baked goods are needed by April 4. Breakfast casseroles must be delivered by 8:45 AM Easter morning, marked “Easter Breakfast.” Specialty foods (nut free, gluten free, etc) are also needed. Contact Jama Bowman, sign up online, or on the sheet in the entryway.

Fellowship Time Help Needed for our fellowship time (Sundays from 9:00 AM–Noon). We all need to pitch in and support this ministry. Sign up in the weekly email.

Cross Roads Camp & Retreat Center brings people together in faith, friendship, and fun. See the weekly email for a link to camp registration, summer staff applications, family retreats, open houses, and the Bishop’s Cup.

March 15, 2026

For this week’s email, click here.

A donation to the flower fund was given by Heinz & Robin Roth in thanksgiving for their years together.

Children’s Choir  (Grades 2–8) and Ye Little Saints & Singers  (Pre-K–Grade 1) TODAY at 9:30AM and Children’s Faith Formation (PreK–Grade 6) at 10:00 AM. All are welcome.

Pascua: Fe, Familia y Comida Forum, TODAY at 9:00 AM. Learn about the traditions of the Easter season in Latin America, like solemn processions with hooded penitents, festive parades with ornate floats featuring Jesus and the Virgin, or fanesca, an Ecuadorian soup representing the twelve apostles! 

Luther Ringers TODAY at 11:45 AM.

Soup for a Cause: Homemade soups and breads are available to buy between Sunday services during Lent. Proceeds benefit St. Stephan’s-Grace. See the weekly email to make soup or bread.

Lenten Collections: 300 cans of fruit, vegetables and soup for Loaves & Fishes; 200 boxes of cereal for GRACE; and 40 $25 Shoprite, Walmart or Target gift cards for Family Promise.

Lenten Midweek Wednesdays , Soup Suppers at 6:00 PM, services at 7:00 PM. See the weekly email or sign up in the rear entry.

Caminando Unides en Cristo Spanish Bible Study, Thursdays at 8:00 PM via Zoom. Contact Pastor Haydée for more information.

Pesach: Understanding Passover, March 22 at 9:00 AM. Pastor Blake shares Passover’s history, meaning, and current Jewish observance, as well as the connections to our Christian observance.

Easter Flower donations by March 22. Sign up online or in the rear entryway.

Holy Work for Holy Week: Help is needed for 9 services in 8 days! We need brass polishers, ushers, assisting ministers, readers, candle preparers, chair arrangers, brunch bakers, and more! All skill levels are welcome Sign up in the narthex or in the weekly email.

Easter Brunch Food Donations of egg casseroles, fruit, or baked goods are needed by April 4. Breakfast casseroles must be delivered by 8:45 AM Easter morning, marked “Easter Breakfast.” Specialty foods (nut free, gluten free, etc) are also needed. Contact Jama Bowman, sign up online, or on the sheet in the entryway.

Lenten Worship Volunteers needed: Sign ups are available in the weekly email. Please sign up.

Fellowship Time Help Needed for our fellowship time (Sundays from 9:00 AM–Noon). We all need to pitch in and support this ministry. Sign up in the weekly email.

Cross Roads Camp & Retreat Center brings people together in faith, friendship, and fun. See the weekly email for a link to camp registration, summer staff applications, family retreats, open houses, and the Bishop’s Cup.

March 8, 2026

For the weekly email, click here.

A gift to the flower fund was given by Paula Cerdas in honor of her birthday.

Children’s Choir (Grades 2–8) and Ye Little Saints & Singers  (Pre-K–Grade 1) TODAY at 9:30AM and Children’s Faith Formation (PreK–Grade 6) at 10:00 AM. All are welcome.

Luther Ringers TODAY at 11:45 AM.

Confirmation Class, TONIGHT from 5:30–7:30 PM.

Lunch Bunch, March 11 from Noon–2:00 PM: Bring a lunch, come for Bible study.

Interweave Light Bearers on March 12 at 7:00 PM. Led by Pastora Haydée and Janet Maulbeck about Oscar Romero and Liberation Theology.

Lenten Midweek Wednesdays , Soup Suppers at 6:00 PM, services at 7:00 PM. See the weekly email or sign up in the rear entry.

Caminando Unides en Cristo Spanish Bible Study, Thursdays at 8:00 PM via Zoom. Contact Pastor Haydée for more information.

Youth+, our youngish adult group (21 to 40-somethings), will be having dinner at the home of Thomas Neiman (38 Byron Rd, Short Hills) March 14 at 6:30 PM.

Pascua: Fe, Familia y Comida Forum, March 15 at 9:00 AM. Learn about the traditions of the Easter season in Latin America, like solemn processions with hooded penitents, festive parades with ornate floats featuring Jesus and the Virgin, or fanesca, an Ecuadorian soup representing the twelve apostles! 

Easter Flower donations by March 22. Sign up online or in the rear entryway.

Soup for a Cause: Homemade soups and breads are available to buy between Sunday services during Lent. Proceeds benefit St. Stephan’s-Grace. See the weekly email to make soup or bread.

Lenten Collections: 300 cans of fruit, vegetables and soup for Loaves & Fishes; 200 boxes of cereal for GRACE; and 40 $25 Shoprite, Walmart or Target gift cards for Family Promise

Lenten Worship Volunteers needed: Sign ups are available in the weekly email. Please sign up.

Fellowship Time Help Needed for our fellowship time (Sundays from 9:00 AM–Noon). We all need to pitch in and support this ministry. Sign up in the weekly email.

First Communion Instruction: All baptized children are welcome to join. Contact Deacon Walker or Pastor Blake for more information.

March 1, 2026

For the weekly email, click here.

Children’s Choir (Grades 2–8) and Ye Little Saints & Singers  (Pre-K–Grade 1) TODAY at 9:30AM and Children’s Faith Formation (PreK–Grade 6) at 10:00 AM. All are welcome.

Lenten Devotionals are available in the narthex.

Luther Ringers TODAY at 11:45 AM.

“Let’s Talk About It,” TODAY at 9:00 AM: The first in a series of open forums to discuss current events. Come for ideas for how to respond to current events from our faith perspective. 

Fanfares & Flourishes Organ Concert, TODAY at 4:00 PM by Christopher Harlow-Jennings.

Youth Group, TONIGHT AT 7:00 PM. for youth grades 7–12.

Lenten Midweek Wednesdays , Soup Suppers at 6:00 PM, services at 7:00 PM. See the weekly email or sign up in the rear entry.

Speak the Word begins March 2 at 7:30 PM: Join us for a 5-week readers workshop led by Jess Sherman, Mondays in Lent. Participants have the option to present a reading at the Easter Vigil.

Caminando Unides en Cristo Spanish Bible Study, begins March 5 at 8:00 PM via Zoom. Contact Pastor Haydée for more information.

Lutheran Singing Forum, March 8 at 9:00 AM: Join us for a hymnal refresher. Our current hymnal, ELW, turns 20 years old this year. Pastor Blake and Christopher will co-lead this session on all that our hymnal contains and how to read/use it. All experience levels welcome. 

Interweave Light Bearers on March 12 at 7:00 PM. Led by Pastora Haydée and Janet Maulbeck about Oscar Romero and Liberation Theology.

Soup for a Cause: Homemade soups and breads are available to buy between Sunday services during Lent. Proceeds benefit St. Stephan’s-Grace. See the weekly email to make soup or bread.

Lenten Collections: 300 cans of fruit, vegetables and soup for Loaves & Fishes; 200 boxes of cereal for GRACE; and 40 $25 Shoprite, Walmart or Target gift cards for Family Promise

Lenten Worship Volunteers needed: Sign ups are available in the weekly email. Please sign up.

Fellowship Time Help Needed for our fellowship time (Sundays from 9:00 AM–Noon). We all need to pitch in and support this ministry. Sign up in the weekly email.

First Communion Instruction: All baptized children are welcome to join. Contact Deacon Walker or Pastor Blake for more information.

Easter Flower donations by March 22. Sign up online or in the rear entryway..

February 15, 2026

For the weekly email, click here.

Special thanks to Wayne Dietterick for serving as guest organist today.

Today’s altar flowers are given to the glory of God by Pattie Gould & Hasan Karslioglu.

Shrove Pancake Breakfast, TODAY at 9:00 AM. Come hungry!

Children’s Choir  (Grades 2–8) and Ye Little Saints & Singers  (Pre-K–Grade 1) TODAY at 9:30AM and Children’s Faith Formation (PreK–Grade 6) at 10:00 AM. All are welcome.

Ash Wednesday, February 18: Our Lenten journey begins on Ash Wednesday with services at Noon and 7:00 PM. More information about Lent and Holy Week to come.

Lenten Devotionals are available in the narthex.

Youth+ Dinner, February 21, hosted at Blake and Shai’s home.

Forum: Global Partnership: Namibia, February 22 at 9:00 AM. Deacon Walker will share about her most recent trip to Namibia as part of our NJ Synod partnership for the installation of the first woman bishop in Namibia. Come learn more about our global Lutheran family. 

Special Congregation Meeting, February 22, immediately following the 10:30 AM service fo ratify the amendments to the Constitution adopted at the Congregation Meeting.

Soup for a Cause: Homemade soups and breads are available to buy between Sunday services during Lent. Proceeds benefit St. Stephan’s-Grace. See the weekly email to make soup or bread.

Lenten Collections begin February 22: 300 Cans of fruit, vegetables and soup are being collected for Loaves & Fishes, 200 boxes of cereal for GRACE, and 40 $25 Shoprite, Walmart or Target gift cards for Family Promise

Lunch Bunch, February 25 from Noon–2:00 PM: Bring a lunch, come for Bible study, discussion, fellowship, and prayer. We continue in Genesis.

Soup Suppers begin February 25 at 6:00 PM before the Lenten Midweek services. See the weekly email or sign up in the rear entry.

Organ Concert, March 1 at 4:00 PM: Join us for Fanfares & Flourishes, performed by Christopher Harlow-Jennings.

Lenten Worship Volunteers needed: Sign ups are available in the weekly email. Please sign up.

Fellowship Time Help Needed for our fellowship time (Sundays from 9:00 AM–Noon). We all need to pitch in and support this ministry. Sign up in the weekly email.

Reformation: Then and Now: Celebrate Reformation 2026 with the NJ Synod in Wittenberg, Germany. Pastor Lindsay is the trip coordinator. See the weekly email for more information.

February 8, 2026

For the weekly email, click here.

Today’s altar flowers are given to the glory of God.

Children’s Choir  (Grades 2–8) and Ye Little Saints & Singers  (Pre-K–Grade 1) TODAY at 9:30AM and Children’s Faith Formation (PreK–Grade 6) at 10:00 AM. All are welcome.

Luther Ringers, TODAY at 11:45 AM.

We welcome TODAY The Rev. Dr. Carol Lindsay as our guest pastor while Pastor Blake and Pastor Haydée are attending the ELCA Multiethnic Network Gathering in Seattle.

Souper Bowl of Caring, TODAY: we will have our “Noisy Offering” to collect donations to combat hunger in our community through the work of GRACE. Coins & bills are appreciated!

Anti-Racism Committee Meeting, February 10 at 6:00 PM.

Lunch Bunch, February 11 from Noon–2:00 PM: Bring a lunch, come for Bible study, discussion, fellowship, and prayer. We continue in Genesis with the story of Abraham and Sarah—this is a great time to join the group!

Basic Spanish Class, February 11 at 6:00 PM. Pastor Haydée will be offering a Basic Spanish Class in the Conference Room. We will learn about the sounds of the letters with different vowels, how to say The Lord’s Prayer, and basic sentences/questions to help welcome people.

Interweave Light Bearers, February 12 at 7:00 PM. These monthly gatherings are presented in partnership with Interweave. This month’s presenter will be The Rev. Jeff Markay, pastor of the Chatham United Methodist Church, sharing about John Wesley, the founder of Methodism.

Shrove Sunday Pancake Breakfast, February 15 at 9:00 AM. We will celebrate with pancakes, bacon, and sausage before our Lenten fast begins. Come hungry!

Ash Wednesday, February 18: Our Lenten journey begins on Ash Wednesday with services at Noon and 7:00 PM. More information about Lent and Holy Week to come.

Special Congregation Meeting, February 22, immediately following the 10:30 AM service fo ratify the amendments to the Constitution adopted at the Congregation Meeting.

Reformation: Then and Now: Celebrate Reformation 2026 with the NJ Synod in Wittenberg, Germany. Pastor Lindsay is the trip coordinator. See the weekly email for more information.

Worship Volunteers Needed: Sign ups are open for the 8:00 and 10:30 AM services. This is a great time to sign up for a new worship ministry. Please sign up today and do your part! 

2026 Envelopes: If you would like a box of envelopes to place offerings for 2026, please pick them up in the church office. Envelopes are not required for making offerings but are available.

Fellowship Time Help Needed for our fellowship time (Sundays from 9:00 AM–Noon). They can be homemade or store-bought baked goods/bagels, fruit/veggies, and cheese & crackers are just some ideas. We all need to pitch in and support this ministry. Sign up in the weekly email.

February 1, 2026

For this week’s email, click here.

Today’s altar flowers are given to the glory of God.

Annual Congregation Meeting, TODAY, immediately following the service in Hinman Hall with lunch provided. The meeting will include the reception of committee reports, the adoption of the 2026 Ministry Spending Plan, the election of Council Members and Synod Assembly Voting Members, and voting on the proposed constitutional changes.

Confirmation Class, TONIGHT, 5:30–7:30 PM.

Basic Spanish Class, February 11 at 6:00 PM. Pastor Haydée will be offering a Basic Spanish Class in the Conference Room. We will learn about the sounds of the letters with different vowels, how to say The Lord’s Prayer, and some basic sentences/questions to help people feel welcomed. 

Interweave Light Bearers, February 12 at 7:00 PM. These monthly gatherings are presented in partnership with Interweave. This month’s presenter will be The Rev. Jeff Markay, pastor of the Chatham United Methodist Church, sharing about John Wesley, the founder of Methodism.

Shrove Sunday Pancake Breakfast, February 15 at 9:00 AM. We will celebrate with pancakes, bacon, and sausage before our Lenten fast begins. Come hungry!

Ash Wednesday, February 18: Our Lenten journey begins with Ash Wednesday with services at Noon and 7:00 PM. More information about Lent and Holy Week to come.

Worship Volunteers Needed: Sign ups are open for the 8:00 and 10:30 AM services. This is a great time to sign up for a new worship ministry. Please sign up today and do your part! 

2026 Envelopes: If you would like a box of envelopes to place offerings for 2026, please contact Linda Mesenbrink or the church office with any questions. Envelopes are not required for making offerings but are available if helpful to you.

Fellowship Time Help Needed for our fellowship time (Sundays from 9:00 AM–Noon). They can be homemade or store-bought baked goods/bagels, fruit/veggies, and cheese & crackers are just some ideas. We all need to pitch in and support this ministry. Sign up in the weekly email.

January 24, 2026

For the weekly email, click here.

Today’s altar flowers are given to the glory of God by the Laura & Ray Snyder and by the Johnson family in memory of their stepfather and grandfather, John Libertini.

Rapid Response Training, Sunday, January 25, 3:00–5:00 PM at Beacon Unitarian, 4 Waldron Ave., Summit for clergy and members of our faith communities in rapid response to ICE. Come and learn about ways to support the community and our immigrant neighbors.

Lunch Bunch: Note the date change—we will meet January 28 from Noon—2:00 PM in the library. Bring a lunch, come for Bible study, discussion, fellowship, and prayer. We continue in Genesis with the story of Abraham and Sarah—this is a great time to join the group!

Basic Spanish Class, January 28 and February 11 at 6:00 PM, led by Pastor Haydée in the Conference Room. We will learn about the sounds of the letters with different vowels, how to say The Lord’s Prayer, and some basic sentences/questions to help people feel welcomed.

One Service at 9:30 AM and Annual Meeting, February 1 immediately following the service in Hinman Hall, lunch provided. The meeting will include committee reports, election of Council Members and Synod Assembly Voting Members, and voting on the 2026 Ministry Spending Plan and proposed constitutional changes. Please see the weekly email for more details.

Interweave Light Bearers, February 5 at 7:00 PM: These monthly gatherings are presented in partnership with Interweave. Each month a leader will share about a reformer who has impacted their faith and spiritual understanding, with dialog opportunities between faith traditions. Light Refreshments - Free will offering. 

Worship Volunteers Needed: Sign ups are open for the 8:00 and 10:30 AM services. This is a great time to sign up for a new worship ministry. Please sign up today and do your part! 

2026 Envelopes: If you would like a box of envelopes to place offerings for 2026, please contact Linda Mesenbrink or the church office with any questions. Envelopes are not required for making offerings but are available if helpful to you.

Fellowship Time Help Needed for our fellowship time (Sundays from 9:00 AM–Noon). They can be homemade or store-bought baked goods/bagels, fruit/veggies, and cheese & crackers are just some ideas. We all need to pitch in and support this ministry. Sign up in the weekly email.

January 18, 2026

For the weekly email, click here.

Children’s Choir  (Grades 2–8) and Ye Little Saints & Singers  (Pre-K–Grade 1) TODAY at 9:30AM and Children’s Faith Formation (PreK–Grade 6) at 10:00 AM. All are welcome.

Luther Ringers, TODAY at 11:45 AM.

Online Giving Setup help, TODAY from 9:00-10:30 AM and after the 10:30 AM service in the library. You will need to bring your mobile device or laptop and your bank information or credit card. Contact Linda Mesenbrink by email or by phone (973-202-2773)

MLK Day Play Reading, Pretty Fire, TODAY at 2:00 PM in partnership with Interweave and Vivid Stage. Discussion and refreshments will follow this 75-minute reading. A free will offering will be collected for the Summit Interfaith Anti-Racism Committee and the NAACP.

MLK Day: All are invited to the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Service at Fountain Baptist Church (116 Glenside Ave., Summit) at 7:00 PM on Monday, January 19. This community-wide, ecumenical service is always inspiring and motivational. See the weekly email for information on additional events.

Budget Forum, January 25 at 9:00 AM: Please join us to review the 2026 Proposed Ministry Spending Plan and ask any questions prior to the Annual Meeting on February 1.

Youth Group, Sunday, January 25 at 7:00 PM in the Adult Lounge. Our gatherings are for youth grades 7 through 12. For more information, contact Izzy Calis.

Lunch Bunch: Note the date change—we will meet January 28 from Noon—2:00 PM in the library. Bring a lunch, come for Bible study, discussion, fellowship, and prayer. We continue in Genesis with the story of Abraham and Sarah—this is a great time to join the group!

One Service at 9:30 AM and Annual Meeting, February 1 immediately following the service in Hinman Hall, lunch provided. The meeting will include committee reports, election of Council Members and Synod Assembly Voting Members, and voting on the 2026 Ministry Spending Plan and proposed constitutional changes. Please see the weekly email for more details.

Worship Volunteers Needed: Sign ups are open for the 8:00 and 10:30 AM services. This is a great time to sign up for a new worship ministry. Please sign up today and do your part! 

2026 Envelopes: If you would like a box of envelopes to place offerings for 2026, please contact Linda Mesenbrink or the church office with any questions. Envelopes are not required for making offerings but are available if helpful to you.

Fellowship Time Help Needed for our fellowship time (Sundays from 9:00 AM–Noon). They can be homemade or store-bought baked goods/bagels, fruit/veggies, and cheese & crackers are just some ideas. We all need to pitch in and support this ministry. Sign up in the weekly email.

January 11, 2026

For the weekly email, click here.

Today’s altar flowers are given to the glory of God and in honor of Charlie’s 5th birthday by Lois & Rodger Kopf and by Barbara Hines in celebration of her 95th birthday.

Children’s Choir  (Grades 2–8) and Ye Little Saints & Singers  (Pre-K–Grade 1) TODAY at 9:30AM and Children’s Faith Formation (PreK–Grade 6) at 10:00 AM. All are welcome.

Confirmation Class, TONIGHT at 5:30 PM.

Youth+Dinner: Our youngish adult group (21 to 40-somethings), will be having dinner at the home of Nick & Kirsten Meyer (42 Rutgers Street, Maplewood), January 16 at 6:00 PM. For more information about this or future Youth+ events, contact Kirsten Meyer.

MLK Day Play Reading, Pretty Fire, in partnership with Interweave and Vivid Stage January 18 at 2:00 PM. A 75 minute reading that weaves several family stories of struggle and triumph. Discussion and refreshments will follow this 75-minute reading. A free will offering will be collected, proceeds will benefit the Summit Interfaith Anti-Racism Committee and the NAACP.

Budget Forum, January 25 at 9:00 AM: Please join us to review the 2026 Proposed Ministry Spending Plan and ask any questions you may have in preparation for the Annual Meeting on February 1.

Online Giving Setup Help will be available on TODAY and January 18 from 9:00-10:30 AM and after the 10:30 AM service in the library. You will need to bring your mobile device or laptop and your bank information or credit card. Contact Linda Mesenbrink by email or by phone (973-202-2773) with any questions.

Worship Volunteers Needed: Sign ups are open for the 8:00 and 10:30 AM services. This is a great time to sign up for a new worship ministry. Please sign up today and do your part! 

The 2026 Flower Chart is posted on the rear bulletin board and available for you to sign up. Weekly flowers cost St. John’s $85. Please give as you are able.

2026 Envelopes: If you would like a box of envelopes to place offerings for 2026, please contact Linda Mesenbrink or the church office with any questions. Envelopes are not required for making offerings but are available if helpful to you.

Fellowship Time Help Needed for our fellowship time (Sundays from 9:00 AM–Noon). They can be homemade or store-bought baked goods/bagels, fruit/veggies, and cheese & crackers are just some ideas. We all need to pitch in and support this ministry. Sign up in the weekly email.

January 4, 2026

For the weekly email, click here.

Today’s altar flowers are given to the glory of God.

Christmas Clean Up, TODAY after the 10:30 AM service to take down the Christmas trees and decorations to prepare for the post-Christmas season. Many hands make light work!

Summit Common Council: Tuesday, January 6 St. John’s member, Jaclyn Lasaracina, will be sworn in as a member of the Summit Common Council. Pastor Blake will offer the invocation. There is a Welcome Reception at 7:00 PM and the Organization Meeting at 7:30 PM at City Hall. Everyone is welcome to attend and to pray for all our elected leaders in their service.

Lunch Bunch Bible Study, biweekly on Wednesdays, resumes January 7 from Noon–2:00 PM in the Library. We will continue in the Book of Gensis with the story of Abraham and Sarah.

Interweave Light Bearers: Join us Thursday, January 8 at 7:00 PM for Light Bearers: Rebels, Reformers, and Visionaries in partnership with Interweave. This month’s presenter is the Rev. Tim Mulder sharing about Queen Elizabeth I and the Anglican/Episcopalian tradition. There will be light refreshments and a free will offering. 

The 2026 Flower Chart is posted on the rear bulletin board and available for you to sign up. Weekly flowers cost St. John’s $85. Please give as you are able.

2026 Envelopes: Envelopes are not required for making offerings but are available if helpful to you. Numbers will be assigned when you collect your envelope box. Please contact Linda Mesenbrink or the church office with any questions.

December 28, 2025

The Church Office will be closed December 29–January 2, reopening Tuesday, January 6.

Youth Group, TONIGHT at 7:00 PM. Our gatherings are for youth grades 7–12. For more information, contact Izzy Calis.

Christmas Clean Up, January 4 after the 10:30 AM service to take down the Christmas trees and decorations to prepare the Sanctuary for the post-Christmas season. Many hands make light work!

Summit Common Council: Tuesday, January 6 St. John’s member, Jaclyn Lasaracina, will be sworn in as a member of the Summit Common Council. Pastor Blake will offer the invocation. There is a Welcome Reception at 7:00 PM and the Organization Meeting at 7:30 PM at City Hall. Everyone is welcome to attend and to pray for all our elected leaders in their service.

Lunch Bunch: Bring a lunch, come for Bible study, discussion, fellowship, and prayer. We will meet January 7 from Noon–2:00 PM in the Library.

Interweave Light Bearers: Join us Thursday, January 8 at 7:00 PM for Light Bearers: Rebels, Reformers, and Visionaries in partnership with Interweave. This month’s presenter is the Rev. Tim Mulder sharing about Queen Elizabeth I and the Anglican/Episcopalian tradition. There will be light refreshments and a free will offering. 

The 2026 Flower Chart is posted on the rear bulletin board and available for you to sign up. Weekly flowers cost St. John’s $85. Please give as you are able.

2026 Envelopes: Envelopes are not required for making offerings but are available if helpful to you. Numbers will be assigned when you collect your envelope box. Please contact Linda Mesenbrink or the church office with any questions.

December 21, 2025

For this week’s email, click here.

Today’s altar flowers are given to the glory of God.

Children’s Choir  (Grades 2–8) and Ye Little Saints & Singers  (Pre-K–Grade 1) TODAY at 9:30AM and Children’s Faith Formation (PreK–Grade 6) at 10:00 AM. All are welcome.

Stewardship Update: We have received 99 total pledges; 95 pledges totaling $1,339,657.00 toward the Radicle Grace campaign, 79 pledges totaling  $539,980.00 to the 2026 Annual Fund, and 35 pledges totaling $32,370.00 for World Hunger.

Christmas Bridges Lunch Assembly, TODAY at 9:00, we will pack 200 lunches.

Luther Ringers, TODAY at 11:45 AM.

Greening of the Church: Help us decorate the church after worship on December 21 at 11:45 AM. We have trees to light, wreaths to hang, candles to prepare, and more. Sign up in the narthex. Lunch will be provided.

Worship Volunteer Sign Ups: Please sign up to assist in worship through Christmastide.

Caminando Unidos en Cristo Spanish-language Bible study Thursdays at 8:00 PM on Zoom.

Pastor’s Christmas Eve Dinner, between the worship services (approximately 6:45-9:00 PM) in Hinman Hall. Everyone is welcome, especially those attending both services, assisting in worship, or anyone who will be alone on Christmas. Please RSVP to Pastor and let him know what item you are bringing to share at the meal.

The Church Office will be closed December 29–January 2, reopening Tuesday, January 6.

Year End Giving: Please remember that all financial contributions for 2025 must be received into the church office in advance of the year’s end. You can make a gift through Sunday, December 28. You may also mail a check or give online. Thank you for giving generously.

The 2026 Flower Chart is posted on the rear bulletin board and available for you to sign up. Weekly flowers cost Saint John’s $85. Please give as you are able.

December 14, 2025

For the weekly email, click here.

Today’s altar flowers are given to the glory of God and in honor of their 70th anniversary by RuthAnn & Harvey Peters.

Children’s Choir  (Grades 2–8) and Ye Little Saints & Singers  (Pre-K–Grade 1) TODAY at 9:30AM and Children’s Faith Formation (PreK–Grade 6) at 10:00 AM. All are welcome.

Stewardship Update: We have received 96 total pledges; 93 pledges totaling $1,316,407.00 toward the Radicle Grace campaign, 76 pledges totaling  $507,820.00 to the 2026 Annual Fund, and 34 pledges totaling $34,345.00 for World Hunger. We have received a dollar for dollar match up to $100,000 for any new or additional pledges to the Radicle Grace Campaign.

The Mitten Tree & Toy Drive items are due TODAY.

Lessons & Carols, 4:00 PM, TODAY: Festive choral music, readings, and hymns.

Christmas Bridges Collection: we are collecting sustainable lunch supplies to give to homeless individuals through Bridges Outreach. December 21 at 9:00 AM we will pack 200 lunches. Sign up in the weekly email. Items must be at church no later than 8:00 AM on December 21. 

Greening of the Church: Help us decorate the church after worship on December 21 at 11:45 AM. We have trees to light, wreaths to hang, candles to prepare, and more. Sign up in the narthex. Lunch will be provided.

Worship Volunteer Sign Ups: Please sign up to assist in worship through Christmastide.

Caminando Unidos en Cristo Spanish-language Bible study Thursdays at 8:00 PM on Zoom.

Pastor’s Christmas Eve Dinner, between the worship services (approximately 6:45-9:00 PM) in Hinman Hall. Everyone is welcome, especially those attending both services, assisting in worship, or anyone who will be alone on Christmas. Please RSVP to Pastor and let him know what item you are bringing to share at the meal.

Year End Giving: Please remember that all financial contributions for 2025 must be received into the church office in advance of the year’s end. You can make a gift through Sunday, December 28. If you wish to come into the church office, please do so by Friday, December 19. You may also mail a check or give online. Thank you for giving generously.

The 2026 Flower Chart is posted on the rear bulletin board and available for you to sign up. Weekly flowers cost Saint John’s $85. Please give as you are able.