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# St. John's Evangelical Lutheran Church

Sterling, Illinois

## Sitemaps

- [XML Sitemap](https://stjohnssterling.org/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website.

## Posts

- [Moving Beyond the Page](https://stjohnssterling.org/2023/06/29/moving-beyond-the-page/) - Join us for faith, fellowship, and book study on July 13 & July 27th at 6:30 pm in the church library. The book selected for July is The Difficult Doctrine of the Love of God. Copies available upon request—please speak with Pastor Jacob.
- [July 2023 Messenger](https://stjohnssterling.org/2023/06/29/july-2023-messenger/)
- [August 2026 Messenger](https://stjohnssterling.org/2026/07/28/august-2026-messenger/)
- [WELCA Tri-Church Family Group: Noah's Ark Adventure Night!](https://stjohnssterling.org/2026/07/28/2026-2027-tri-church-confirmation-starts-this-month/)
- [Students wanted for Summer Special Music](https://stjohnssterling.org/2026/05/28/students-wanted-for-summer-special-music/) - This summer, the UNITE churches are again hosting student musicians from the Sterling-Rock Falls area. This includes any student completing 7th grade through a just graduated college/post grad student.We ask that students share music with us at St. John's and then arrange to play that piece at other UNITE congregations, where you will be paid
- [July Special Offerings](https://stjohnssterling.org/2026/06/23/july-special-offerings-2/) - Let's Feed Our Children Summer is a critical time for children’s health and well-being. During the school year, many children receive free and reduced-price meals at school. However, when school is out, these kids no longer have access to those meals. Every summer, the United Way helps to provide meals for children through its Let’s
- [July Children's Noisy Offerings](https://stjohnssterling.org/2026/06/23/july-childrens-noisy-offerings/) - Blue Feather Alliance Blue Feather Alliance is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization working exclusively on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in South Dakota. Over the years we have completed many projects primarily in the community of Manderson, South Dakota. Manderson is located on the reservation in Oglala Lakota County, one the poorest counties in the country.
- [Taking An Iron Supplement](https://stjohnssterling.org/2026/07/28/taking-an-iron-supplement/) - Taking iron supplements daily can be recommended for preventing iron deficiency anemia, but it's best to consult a doctor for the correct dosage and duration, as this varies by age, gender, and health status. While daily intake may be necessary for some, others may experience side effects like constipation, nausea, and an upset stomach, which
- [August Special Offerings](https://stjohnssterling.org/2026/07/28/august-special-offerings/) - Sterling Buddy Bags As the time for school to begin draws near, and because the need is so great, the Congregation Council has again designated the August Special Offering to the Sterling Buddy Bag Program! Food insecurity in our community is often related to housing insecurity, and both issues affect our school-age children. The food
- [August Children's Noisy Offerings](https://stjohnssterling.org/2026/07/28/august-childrens-noisy-offerings/) - Faith Now Faith Now is an ecumenical, open, and affirming community for young-ish* adults in DeKalb County. Our goal for this community is to create space for young-ish* adults to come and explore with faith means today, here and now. We are for the doubters, believers, questioners, the churched and unchurched, the nones and dones
- [Opie King](https://stjohnssterling.org/2022/08/22/opie-king/) - Facility Maintenance
- [School Kits](https://stjohnssterling.org/2026/06/23/school-kits/) - The Social Ministry Committee will be collecting items for school kits through September 20. We had a great response last year and have asked St. Paul and Immanuel to partner with us again this year for assembly. Our time together was an awesome time of fellowship and stewardship. Some of the kits will be shared
- [Onken Family Donates Baptismal Gown Worn by 85 Family Members](https://stjohnssterling.org/2026/06/23/onken-family-donates-baptismal-gown-worn-by-85-family-members/) - Dear St. Johns Lutheran Church,The extended family of Harry Onken would like to present his encased 128-year-old baptismal gown and its historical ledger to St. John’s Lutheran Church in his memory. Our beloved grandfather, great-grandfather, and great-great-grandfather was baptized into the Lutheran faith in 1888. He was baptized in Germany wearing this very gown.For the
- [Youth Gathering Volunteers Needed](https://stjohnssterling.org/2026/06/23/youth-gathering-volunteers-needed/) - Would you like to volunteer at the ELCA Youth Gathering and help our young people grow in faith and encounter Christ? Serving the youth of this church is a vocational calling that requires careful discernment. There are several ways to volunteer. Responsibilities and commitments vary by category, but every volunteer must agree to a volunteer
- [2027 Youth Gathering](https://stjohnssterling.org/2026/06/23/2027-youth-gathering/) - Save the date for the 2027 Youth Gathering: June 28-July 2, 2027 in Minneapolis, Minnesota! What is the gathering?Every three years, thousands of high schoolers and their adult leaders from across the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) come together for the ELCA Youth Gathering.It’s not just an event but a movement in which faith
- [Tuesday Morning Text Study Group](https://stjohnssterling.org/2026/06/23/tuesday-morning-text-study-group/) - Each week on Tuesday mornings an ecumenical group of clergy and lay folks meet at 9:30 am in Luther Chapel to read, discuss, and study the upcoming Sunday's Lectionary readings. Those who are curious about the upcoming readings are always welcome to attend. Likewise, those who are interested in being a reader for an upcoming
- [July 2026 Messenger](https://stjohnssterling.org/2026/06/23/july-2026-messenger/)
- [Safe diet tips if you take anticoagulants](https://stjohnssterling.org/2026/06/23/safe-diet-tips-if-you-take-anticoagulants/) - If you take a blood thinner such as warfarin, you know that managing a safe diet is crucial. The good news is that no foods are really off-limits. However, you’ll need to be aware of the amount of vitamin K you are consuming. Spikes in vitamin K intake can raise the risk of unwanted clotting.
- [Registration is now OPEN for CommUNITY VBS 2026](https://stjohnssterling.org/2026/05/28/registration-is-now-open-for-community-vbs-2026/) - Join us at Rainforest Falls as we explore the nature of God! We can’t wait for another incredible week of worship, games, crafts, Bible stories, music and community together. Here are the key details: 📍Bethel Reformed Church (230 E. 23rd St. Sterling) 📆 July 12-16, 2026 🍽️ Dinner: 5:30-6:00pm 🦜VBS: 6:00-8:00pm Kids ages Pre-K (4
- [Favorite Hymns Requested](https://stjohnssterling.org/2026/05/28/favorite-hymns-requested/) - Please share your favorite hymns with Dawn by August 1. These will be incorporated into our hymns for the coming school year. There is no limit on your submission, so enjoy thinking about your favorites and listing them all! Please leave in Dawn’s box in the library, catch her in person (with your titles in
- [June Special Offerings](https://stjohnssterling.org/2026/05/28/june-special-offerings/) - YWCA of the Sauk Valley The YWCA has been designated by the Congregation Council to receive the Special Offerings for June. It is difficult for most of us to envision a life where vulnerability is a way of life. However, to the clients serviced by the YWCA, poverty, unsafe living conditions, a lack of reliable
- [June Children's Noisy Offerings](https://stjohnssterling.org/2026/05/28/june-childrens-noisy-offerings/) - Buddy Bags Buddy Bags is a community food program that provides food for kids to take home on Friday afternoon. The food is simple and nutritious, something children can prepare without too much effort. Providing food bags for hundreds of students each week, the program is fully volunteer supported.
- [How to get started with diet changes](https://stjohnssterling.org/2026/05/28/how-to-get-started-with-diet-changes/) - Even small changes can help manage your kidney disease. Set a goal you think you can achieve — maybe switching to low sodium canned foods or eating two meatless meals a week. Once you’ve made that a habit, set another goal. Give yourself some time to get used to dietary changes. After a few months
- [June 2026 Messenger](https://stjohnssterling.org/2026/05/28/june-2026-messenger/)
- [Volunteers Needed for Reading and Serving Communion](https://stjohnssterling.org/2026/04/28/volunteers-needed-for-reading-and-serving-communion/) - Starting this summer we are in need of help reading Bible verses, serving wine for communion, and Prayers of Intercession. (These prayers are pre-printed and you could read from your pew seat if you chose to do so.) There will be a sign-up sheet for these things near the bulletin board.
- [What is an aneurysm?](https://stjohnssterling.org/2026/04/28/what-is-an-aneurysm/) - An aneurysm starts when a weak spot in an artery wall becomes thin and stretched. Eventually, the stretching leads to a saclike pouch that looks like a berry hanging on a stem.If the pouch ruptures, blood seeps out of the artery and into areas of the brain where it doesn’t belong. A ruptured aneurysm quickly
- [May Children's Noisy Offering](https://stjohnssterling.org/2026/04/28/may-childrens-noisy-offering/) - Let's Feed Our Children Summer is a critical time for children’s health and well-being. During the school year, many children receive free and reduced-price meals at school and most of those children also make use of the Buddy Bags Program. However, when school is out, these kids no longer have access to those meals and
- [May Special Offerings](https://stjohnssterling.org/2026/04/28/may-special-offerings/) - Cledy's House of Hope The Congregation Council has designated the May Special Offerings to Cledy’s House of Hope in Rock Falls. The facility is a 42-bed recovery residence for women, designed to honor the legacy of Cledy Rumley, a devoted mother and champion of hope. This safe, structured, and supportive environment is a sanctuary for
- [May 2026 Messenger](https://stjohnssterling.org/2026/04/28/may-2026-messenger/)
- [WELCA SPRING RETREAT 2026](https://stjohnssterling.org/2026/03/26/welca-spring-retreat-2026/) - Raising Our Voices: Proclaiming the Gospel When the World Is Loud Proclamation isn't shouting louder than hate. It's speaking, living and standing in love, truth, and justice as people claimed in Christ. Program and Worship led by Pr. Laurie Hensley, Bethany ELCA, Woodhull, IL.
- [April 2026 Messenger](https://stjohnssterling.org/2026/03/26/april-2026-messenger/)
- [April Special Offerings](https://stjohnssterling.org/2026/03/26/april-special-offerings/) - Twin Cities Homeless Shelter The Congregation Council has designated the Special Offerings for April to the Twin Cities Homeless Shelter, formerly known as the Twin Cities PADS Homeless Shelter. The shelter serves 20- 25 guests per night for emergency shelter and as an entry point into other outreach programs. They currently have limited space and
- [Managing Diabetes May Reduce Dementia Risk](https://stjohnssterling.org/2026/03/26/managing-diabetes-may-reduce-dementia-risk/) - People with diabetes are more likely to develop dementia for many reasons, though not all are fully understood. But can you lower your dementia risk if your diabetes is well controlled? A recent study suggests that the answer is yes.Researchers looked at health records of about 374,000 U.S. military veterans. All were at least 65
- [April Lenten Self-Denial Offerings](https://stjohnssterling.org/2026/03/26/april-lenten-self-denial-offerings/) - First United Methodist Loaves & Fishes Program The Lenten Self-Denial Offerings have once again been designated by the Congregation Council for donation to the First United Methodist Church Loaves and Fishes program. This program, located at 501 Broadway, relies solely on contributions to host a free community breakfast and serve more than 400 breakfasts per
- [Save the Dates for VBS](https://stjohnssterling.org/2026/02/25/save-the-dates-for-vbs/) - Save the date for CommUNITY VBS! July 12-16 at Bethel Reformed Church. CommUNITY VBS Worship at Grandon on July 19 at 9:30 am. If you would like to help the planning team the next meeting dates are March 5th and April 9th both at 4pm.
- [Lily Order Forms](https://stjohnssterling.org/2026/02/25/lilies-order-form-2/) - Lilies are wanted to decorate the chancel for Easter. You can order on the group order or purchase your own. If you purchase your own lily and plan on picking it up, bring it to the church no earlier than April 3 and please place a tag on it with your name. Plants can be
- [Buddy Bag Packing Rescheduled](https://stjohnssterling.org/2026/02/25/buddy-bag-packing-rescheduled/) - The March 11 Buddy Bag packing has been rescheduled for April 1. While April 1 may be April Fools Day, hunger is no laughing matter.
- [Palm Sunday Breakfast Coordinator Needed](https://stjohnssterling.org/2026/02/25/palm-sunday-breakfast-coordinator-needed/) - Hello St. John’s youth and families,It’s time to be preparing for the Palm Sunday Breakfast.In the years since Gerad left the staff, Michelle and I have done our best to coordinate the breakfast and try to maintain the eggs and pancakes breakfast we’ve all come to know.We are now looking for those who will take
- [March Children's Noisy Offering](https://stjohnssterling.org/2026/02/25/march-childrens-noisy-offering/) - ELCA World Hunger Nearly 1-in-10 people – 733 million – in our world are hungry. As members of the ELCA, we are called to respond. We are a church that rolls up our sleeves and gets to work. In the U.S., 37.9 million people live in poverty. 18 million people are food insecure, an increase
- [March & April Social Ministry Committee Collection](https://stjohnssterling.org/2026/02/25/march-april-social-ministry-committee-collection/) - Personal Care Kits The Social Ministry Committee will be collecting personal care kits March 1st through April 12th. Once again, we will donate the kits to the First United Methodist Church in Sterling for distribution at their Food Bank and in conjunction with their Free Breakfast Program. The folks at First Methodist appreciate our desire
- [March Special Offerings & Lenten Self-Denial Offerings](https://stjohnssterling.org/2026/02/25/march-special-offerings-lenten-self-denial-offerings/) - First United Methodist Loaves & Fishes Program The special offerings for March and the Lenten Self-Denial Offerings have once again been designated by the Congregation Council for donation to the First United Methodist Church Loaves and Fishes program. This program, located at 501 Broadway, relies solely on contributions to host a free community breakfast and
- [Easy Ways To Eat More Plants](https://stjohnssterling.org/2026/02/25/easy-ways-to-eat-more-plants/) - Fitting more plants into your diet can be easy. You might simply adjust a recipe adding some spinach, carrots, cashews, or pumpkin seeds to an entree or salad. Or you might swap out a snack. “Replace one daily processed snack like cookies with fresh fruit and a small handful of nuts or raw veggies —
- [March 2026 Messenger](https://stjohnssterling.org/2026/02/25/march-2026-messenger/)
- [February 2026 Messenger](https://stjohnssterling.org/2026/02/13/february-2026-messenger/)
- [Popular Christian Band to Play in Naperville](https://stjohnssterling.org/2026/02/02/popular-christian-band-to-play-in-naperville/) - The Sidewalk Prophets will be in Naperville in April for "An Acoustic Evening with Sidewalk Prophets." With 900 million streams and 588,000 monthly listeners, this will be an evening you won't want to miss. The Sidewalk Prophets have played at Red Rocks, K-Love Cruise, Ryman Auditorium and the Grand Ole Opry; performed the National Anthem
- [Confirmation Schedule](https://stjohnssterling.org/2026/02/02/confirmation-schedule/) - February class: 11am-2pm February 1st at ImmanuelDue to a scheduling conflict for Pastor Bree, Tri Church Confirmation will be on February 8 from 11am-2pm at Immanuel. Her deepest apologies about the need for the change. Her dad died on January 21st, and she is in the state of Oregon on bereavement and vacation until February
- [Reduce Your Risk of Alzheimer's Disease](https://stjohnssterling.org/2026/02/02/reduce-your-risk-of-alzheimers-disease/) - Here are recommendations to stave off Alzheimer’s disease, courtesy of Harvard neuroscientist RudolphTanzi. Sleep at least seven hours a night. As you sleep, your brain flushes out waste material and toxins, including amyloid-beta. Use stress reduction techniques. Stress activates brain areas that internalize emotion, and cells in those brain areas may make more amyloid and
- [January Children's Noisy Offering](https://stjohnssterling.org/2026/02/02/january-childrens-noisy-offering/) - YWCA Domestic Violence Program YWCA Domestic Violence Program and Sexual Assault Program. Donations help support the 24-hour Hotline: The crisis line is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. Phones are answered by trained professionals. YWCA can help callers access emergency services including safe shelter, medical care, obtaining Orders
- [February Children's Noisy Offering](https://stjohnssterling.org/2026/02/02/february-childrens-noisy-offering/) - United Way of Whiteside County United Way of Whiteside County Community Campaign. Donations help support community impact programs including the 2-1-1 Helpline offering Free Confidential Resources, Born Learning Academy helping parents teach their children, School supplies for local children, Let’s Feed Our Children the free summer lunch program, and the LIFE Imagination Library that provides
- [February Special Offerings](https://stjohnssterling.org/2026/02/02/february-special-offerings/) - Sterling Buddy Bag Program Because the need is so great, the Congregation Council has again designated the February Special Offering to the Sterling Buddy Bag Program! Food insecurity in our community is often related to housing insecurity, and both issues affect our school-age children. The food is simple, nutritious, and easy for children to prepare
- [New Church Office Hours](https://stjohnssterling.org/2025/12/31/new-church-office-hours/) - Please note these new church office hours beginning in January! The church office will be open Tuesday through Thursday from 8:00am-4:00pm.
- [January Special Offerings](https://stjohnssterling.org/2025/12/31/january-special-offerings/) - Whiteside County Senior Center The Whiteside County Senior Center will be the recipient of the January 2026 Special Offerings. This facility provides companionship, conversation, and community for seniors year-round. Their services include shared meals, game days, wellness checks, and education. During the holiday season, not all seniors have family nearby with whom they can celebrate.
- [January 2026 Messenger](https://stjohnssterling.org/2025/12/31/january-2026-messenger/)
- [Choosing A Pet For Your Health & Lifestyle](https://stjohnssterling.org/2025/12/31/choosing-a-pet-for-your-health-lifestyle/) - Pets are known to improve the lives of their human family members. Not only are pets great companions, but they can also boost your mental physical health and your social life. Most people can find a pet to love, no matter their health concerns. Talk to pet adoption coordinators about finding a good match for
- [Paul Wolfe](https://stjohnssterling.org/2022/05/17/jan-klocke/) - President
- [Denise Norman](https://stjohnssterling.org/2022/05/17/denise-norman/) - Secretary
- [Jan Klocke](https://stjohnssterling.org/2026/01/01/jan-klocke-2/) - Member
- [Randy Davis](https://stjohnssterling.org/2026/01/01/randy-davis/) - Member
- [December 2025 Messenger](https://stjohnssterling.org/2025/11/28/december-2025-messenger/)
- [December Special Offerings](https://stjohnssterling.org/2025/11/28/december-special-offerings/) - The Special Offerings for December have once again been designated by the Congregation Council to be donated to the Sterling Buddy Bag Program. The need for this community food program becomes more pronounced each month. Food insecurity in our community is often related to housing insecurity, and both issues affect our school-age children. The food
- [New Guidelines For High Blood Pressure](https://stjohnssterling.org/2025/11/28/new-guidelines-for-high-blood-pressure/) - If you haven’t talked to your doctor lately about your blood pressure, it may be time for a check-up. The definition of high blood pressure (hypertension) changed in November 2017, when the American College of Cardiology and the American Heart Association released new guidelines for diagnosis and treatment of the condition. High blood pressure used
- [Share Your Time & Talents at St. John's](https://stjohnssterling.org/2025/10/29/share-your-time-talents-at-st-johns/) - Hello, St John's Family! Since our congregation has become considerably smaller in recent years, we have fewer hands to help with our church services, committees, and activities. There are many components needed to keep our church thriving, and just a handful of people are helping. Prayerfully consider sharing some of your time or talents. Below
- [Poinsettias Wanted!](https://stjohnssterling.org/2025/10/29/poinsettias-wanted/) - Poinsettias are wanted to decorate St. John’s Chancel for Christmas.You can order from the group order or purchase your own. If you purchase your own poinsettia and plan on picking it up, please place a tag on it with your name and bring it to the church no earlier than December 23rd. All poinsettias should
- [November 2025 Messenger](https://stjohnssterling.org/2025/10/29/november-2025-messenger/)
- [November Special Offerings](https://stjohnssterling.org/2025/10/24/november-special-offerings/) - The November Special Offerings will support the LSSI Holiday Hope Chest initiative. This program establishes a wish list for a child being served by Lutheran Social Services of Illinois. Gifts are purchased from that list to be given at Christmas. The St. John’s Children’s Offerings are also supporting this program, and our youth will purchase items for
- [How to Treat a Nosebleed](https://stjohnssterling.org/2025/10/24/how-to-treat-a-nosebleed/) - Most everyone experiences an occasional nosebleed. It can be scary, but usually it’s a minor annoyance. Common nosebleed causes can include change of seasons, dryness, scratching certain medications and injuries. People on blood thinners may have worse nosebleeds than others. Most nosebleeds stop on their own or stop after a few self-care steps: Sit upright
- [October 2025 Messenger](https://stjohnssterling.org/2025/09/25/october-2025-messenger/)
- [ELCA World Hunger Committee Speaker](https://stjohnssterling.org/2025/03/21/elca-world-hunger-committee-speaker/) - Hunger has been a persistent challenge in our world. As Christians, we are called upon to follow the example and teachings of Jesus to help people in need. Beginning in 1974 the Lutheran Church in America has given special attention to reducing hunger for fifty years. While the money donated by a single congregation such
- [Cold Sore Care](https://stjohnssterling.org/2025/09/22/cold-sore-care/) - A cold sore is a fluid-filled blister — or a group of blisters — that typically develops around the lips. It’s caused by the herpes simplex virus, which is typically passed from skin-to-skin contact. To manage cold sores: Stop the spread — Avoid touching the sore, as that can make it worse and lead to
- [October Special Offerings](https://stjohnssterling.org/2025/09/22/october-special-offerings/) - UMC Loaves & Fishes Program The special offerings for October have once again been designated by the Congregation Council to be donated to the First United Methodist Church Loaves and Fishes program. This program, located at 501 Broadway, relies solely on contributions to host a free community breakfast and serve more than 400 breakfasts per
- [September 2025 Messenger](https://stjohnssterling.org/2025/08/26/september-2025-messenger/)
- [September Special Offerings](https://stjohnssterling.org/2025/08/26/september-special-offerings/) - Lutheran Social Service of Illinois (LSSI) has served in our state since 1867. It is one of the largest nonprofit, statewide social service providers and welcomes and serves people from diverse backgrounds. Critical social and human services include foster care, mental health services, alcohol and drug treatment, affordable senior housing, home care services for older
- [Who Should Get The Shingles Vaccine?](https://stjohnssterling.org/2025/08/26/who-should-get-the-shingles-vaccine/) - The shingles vaccine (Shingrix) is recommended for adults ages 50 or older, even if you: Have had shingles before Received an older shingles vaccine called Zostavax (it’s less effective and is no longer given in the United States) Don’t recall having had chickenpox It’s unclear how long you should wait to get the shingles vaccine
- [August 2025 Messenger](https://stjohnssterling.org/2025/07/30/august-2025-messenger/)
- [July 2025 Messenger](https://stjohnssterling.org/2025/06/25/july-2025-messenger/)
- [God's Work Our Hands - Cledy's House of Hope](https://stjohnssterling.org/2025/05/28/gods-work-our-hands-cledys-house-of-hope/) - Cledy's House of Hope was introduced in the May newsletter as a Tri Church God's Work Our Hands project. Cledy's is a sober living home for women with a current wait list of 10 women located in the former Arrowwood facility in Rock Falls and next to the former Rock Falls Rehab Nursing Home. On Sunday,
- [Seeking Student Musicians](https://stjohnssterling.org/2025/05/28/seeking-student-musicians/) - This summer, the UNITE churches are again hosting student musicians from the Sterling/Rock Falls area. This includes any student completing 7th grade – a just graduated college student. We ask that students share a piece with us at St. John's and then arrange to play that piece at other UNITE congregations, where you will be
- [2027 Youth Gathering Planning Teams](https://stjohnssterling.org/2025/05/28/2027-youth-gathering-planning-teams/) - Applications are officially open for the 2027 Gathering Planning Teams! Whether you’re all about logistics,storytelling, worship, or community, there’s a team for your gifts. This is your chance to help shape something unforgettable. Let’s build it together. Apply now through June 30. To learn more, visit: elca.org/Gathering
- [June 2025 Messenger](https://stjohnssterling.org/2025/05/28/june-2025-messenger/)
- [May 2025 Messenger](https://stjohnssterling.org/2025/04/23/may-2025-messenger/)
- [April 2025 Messenger](https://stjohnssterling.org/2025/03/21/april-2025-messenger/)
- [March 2025 Messenger](https://stjohnssterling.org/2025/02/27/march-2025-messenger/)
- [February 2025 Messenger](https://stjohnssterling.org/2025/01/27/february-2025-messenger/)
- [How To Report Spam Text Messages](https://stjohnssterling.org/2025/01/27/how-to-report-spam-text-messages/) - Unwanted messages are becoming increasingly common methods for scams and fraud. Often these messages may look like they are from someone you know but are really a scam looking for personal information. If you get an unwanted text message, there are three ways to report it: Copy the message and forward it to 7726 (SPAM).
- [January 2025 Messenger](https://stjohnssterling.org/2024/12/30/january-2025-messenger/)
- [Larry Kradle](https://stjohnssterling.org/2024/10/07/larry-kradle/) - Member
- [Aislinn O'Connell](https://stjohnssterling.org/2024/10/07/aislinn-oconnell/) - Member
- [December 2024 Messenger](https://stjohnssterling.org/2024/11/26/december-2024-messenger/)
- [Altar Guild & Offering Counters Needed!](https://stjohnssterling.org/2024/10/30/altar-guild-offering-counters-needed/) - HELP NEEDED! With the end of the year quickly approaching, new schedules for duties throughout the church will be formulated and mailed. Two such areas where our volunteer base has dwindled are in the weekly offering counting process and setting the table for communion by the Altar Guild volunteers. Offering counters are typically scheduled for
- [November 2024 Messenger](https://stjohnssterling.org/2024/10/30/november-2024-messenger/)
- [Rhonda Stutzke](https://stjohnssterling.org/2024/10/07/rhonda-stutzke/) - Member
- [Rev. Jacob Gawlik](https://stjohnssterling.org/2022/05/17/rev-jacob-gawlik/) - Pastor pastorjacob@stjohnsonthird.org
- [Karen Wolfe](https://stjohnssterling.org/2024/10/07/karen-wolfe/) - Member
- [October 2024 Messenger](https://stjohnssterling.org/2024/09/30/october-2024-messenger/)
- [September 2024 Messenger](https://stjohnssterling.org/2024/08/29/september-2024-messenger/)
- [August 2024 Messenger](https://stjohnssterling.org/2024/07/30/august-2024-messenger/)
- [July 2024 Messenger](https://stjohnssterling.org/2024/06/27/july-2024-messenger/)
- [June 2024 Messenger](https://stjohnssterling.org/2024/05/28/june-2024-messenger/)
- [May 2024 Messenger](https://stjohnssterling.org/2024/05/09/may-2024-messenger/)
- [April 2024 Messenger](https://stjohnssterling.org/2024/03/28/april-2024-messenger/)
- [March 2024 Messenger](https://stjohnssterling.org/2024/02/27/march-2024-messenger/)
- [February 2024 Messenger](https://stjohnssterling.org/2024/01/30/february-2024-messenger/)
- [January 2024 Messenger](https://stjohnssterling.org/2023/12/28/january-2024-messenger/)
- [Food Pantry Sunday!](https://stjohnssterling.org/2023/12/28/food-pantry-sunday/) - The Congregation Council has once again designated the first Sunday of each month as Food Pantry Sunday. A receptacle will be available for donations. We stopped focusing on this during the pandemic and have not resurrected the practice of intentionally making donations. Considering the increasing need in our community we would like to increase our
- [December 2023 Messenger](https://stjohnssterling.org/2023/11/29/december2023-messenger/)
- [November 2023 Messenger](https://stjohnssterling.org/2023/10/30/november-2023-messenger/)
- [October 2023 Messenger](https://stjohnssterling.org/2023/09/26/october-2023-messenger/)
- [September 2023 Messenger](https://stjohnssterling.org/2023/08/28/september-2023-messenger/)
- [August 2023 Messenger](https://stjohnssterling.org/2023/07/27/august-2023-messenger/)
- [June 2023 Messenger](https://stjohnssterling.org/2023/05/25/june-2023-messenger/)
- [May 2023 Messenger](https://stjohnssterling.org/2023/04/25/may-2023-messenger/)
- [April 2023 Messenger](https://stjohnssterling.org/2023/03/29/april-2023-messenger/)
- [March 2023 Messenger](https://stjohnssterling.org/2023/02/28/march-2023-messenger/)
- [February 2023 Messenger](https://stjohnssterling.org/2023/01/30/february-2023-messenger/)
- [January 2023 Messenger](https://stjohnssterling.org/2022/12/27/january-2023-messenger/)
- [December 2022 Messenger](https://stjohnssterling.org/2022/11/23/december-2022-messenger/)
- [Dawn Zeigler](https://stjohnssterling.org/2022/05/17/dawn-zeigler/) - Director of Worship & Music, Organist/Pianist, Bell Choir Director dawn@stjohnsonthird.org
- [Andrew Stutzke](https://stjohnssterling.org/2022/05/17/andrew-stutzke/) - Systems Administrator andrew@stjohnsonthird.org
- [Worship Live Streaming](https://stjohnssterling.org/2023/02/27/worship-live-streaming/) - Please share with family, friends, co-workers, neighbors etc. the following options available to watch or listen to weekly worship with St. John, St. Paul, or Immanuel. St. John’s Lutheran Church https://www.youtube.com/@StJohnsSterlingIL/streams is where you can find the livestream every Sunday. There will also be links on the St. John’s website (https://stjohnssterling.org/worship-services/) and on the Facebook
- [November 2022 Messenger](https://stjohnssterling.org/2022/10/26/november-2022-messenger/)
- [October 2022 Messenger](https://stjohnssterling.org/2022/09/27/october-2022-messenger/)
- [Kroger Rewards](https://stjohnssterling.org/2022/05/17/kroger-rewards/) - St. John’s is a member of the Kroger Community Rewards Program. If you have a Kroger Plus Shopper’s Card, you can earn rewards for the St. John’s Building Fund every time you use it. Just about everything you purchase qualifies, with the exception of alcohol, tobacco, and postage stamps. There is no cost to participate
- [September 2022 Messenger](https://stjohnssterling.org/2022/08/30/september-2022-messenger/)
- [Nina Peters](https://stjohnssterling.org/2022/05/17/nina-peters/) - Office Manager nina@stjohnsonthird.org
- [August 2022 Messenger](https://stjohnssterling.org/2022/08/01/august-2022-messenger/)
- [July 2022 Messenger](https://stjohnssterling.org/2022/07/01/july-2022-messenger/)
- [June 2022 Messenger](https://stjohnssterling.org/2022/06/01/june-2022-messenger/)
- [June 2021 Messenger](https://stjohnssterling.org/2021/05/31/june-2021-messenger/)
- [July 2021 Messenger](https://stjohnssterling.org/2021/06/30/july-2021-messenger/)
- [August 2021 Messenger](https://stjohnssterling.org/2021/07/31/august-2021-messenger/)
- [September 2021 Messenger](https://stjohnssterling.org/2021/08/31/september-2021-messenger/)
- [October 2021 Messenger](https://stjohnssterling.org/2021/09/30/october-2021-messenger/)
- [November 2021 Messenger](https://stjohnssterling.org/2021/10/31/november-2021-messenger/)
- [December 2021 Messenger](https://stjohnssterling.org/2021/11/30/december-2021-messenger/)
- [January 2022 Messenger](https://stjohnssterling.org/2021/12/31/january-2022-messenger/)
- [February 2022 Messenger](https://stjohnssterling.org/2022/01/31/february-2022-messenger/)
- [March 2022 Messenger](https://stjohnssterling.org/2022/02/28/march-2022-messenger/)
- [April 2022 Messenger](https://stjohnssterling.org/2022/03/31/april-2022-messenger/)
- [May 2022 Messenger](https://stjohnssterling.org/2022/04/30/may-2022-messenger/)

## Pages

- [Home](https://stjohnssterling.org/) - Our purpose is to continue discovering God’s will for us in His kingdom through prayer, Bible study and building relationships.
- [Ministry Partners](https://stjohnssterling.org/ministry-partners/) - St. John’s values our community, regional and worldwide partnerships.
- [Worship Services](https://stjohnssterling.org/worship-services/) - View our online worship services from the comfort of your home. Each week our online worship is a group effort with our Tri-Church partners at St. Paul, Sterling, and Immanuel, Rock Falls.
- [Where Do I Fit In?](https://stjohnssterling.org/where-do-i-fit-in/) - At St. John's, we have a large variety of ministries to meet all sorts of needs and interests. Please contact the church office so we can help you find the perfect fit!
- [Our History](https://stjohnssterling.org/our-history/) - Founded in 1854, St. John’s has grown from a small congregation of 10 meeting at the old Whiteside County Courthouse to a beacon of light and hope in the heart of Sterling.
- [Newsletter](https://stjohnssterling.org/newsletter/) - View recent editions of our monthly newsletter, The Messenger.
- [Accessibility Statement](https://stjohnssterling.org/accessibility-statement/) - We are committed to ensuring digital accessibility for people with disabilities. We are continually applying the relevant accessibility standards
- [Cookies Policy](https://stjohnssterling.org/cookies-policy/) - We use cookies to help your device remember our website.
- [Privacy Policy](https://stjohnssterling.org/privacy-policy-2/) - We value your privacy very highly. This policy contains important information regarding your privacy and how we may use the information we collect about you.
- [Terms of Service](https://stjohnssterling.org/terms-of-service/) - By accessing and using this website, you agree to be bound by these terms.
- [Calendar](https://stjohnssterling.org/calendar/) - Find upcoming events for St. John’s Lutheran Church in Sterling, Illinois.
- [Congregational Council](https://stjohnssterling.org/congregational-council/) - The Congregational Council of St. John’s generally meets at 6pm the third Tuesday of each month. If you are interested in serving on the council, please contact the church office.
- [Our Staff](https://stjohnssterling.org/our-staff/) - Our staff is made up of dedicated full-time and part-time employees and independent contractors, many of whom are members at St. John's or other ELCA churches.
- [Contact Us](https://stjohnssterling.org/contact-us/) - Get in touch with the staff of St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in Sterling, Illinois, and find a map to our campus.
- [I’m New Here](https://stjohnssterling.org/im-new-here/) - We know there can be questions or concerns when visiting a church for the first time. Here’s a list of things you might be curious about when visiting St. John’s.
- [Youth & Family](https://stjohnssterling.org/youth-family/) - Sunday School, Confirmation, Youth Groups and Vacation Bible School are just a few of the fun activities offered to the youth of St. John’s and the community.
- [News](https://stjohnssterling.org/news/) - Find out what’s happening at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Sterling, Illinois.
- [Youth Safety Policy](https://stjohnssterling.org/youth-family/youth-safety-policy/) - The Church pledges to conduct ministries in a manner that assures the safety and spiritual growth of all children and youth, as well as anyone who works with or supervises them.

## Events

- [UNITE Service Camp](https://stjohnssterling.org/events/unite-service-camp/)
- [Newsletter Deadline](https://stjohnssterling.org/events/newsletter-deadline/)
- [Finance Committee Meeting](https://stjohnssterling.org/events/finance-committee-meeting/)
- [Prayer Shawl Group Coffee Hour](https://stjohnssterling.org/events/prayer-shawl-group-coffee-hour/)
- [Executive Council Meeting](https://stjohnssterling.org/events/executive-council-meeting/)
- [Rucker Facility Use (Chapel & Kitchenette)](https://stjohnssterling.org/events/rucker-facility-use-chapel-kitchenette/)
- [Fish Food Pantry Collection](https://stjohnssterling.org/events/fish-food-pantry-collection/)
- [Church Office Closed](https://stjohnssterling.org/events/church-office-closed/)
- [Newsletter Assembly](https://stjohnssterling.org/events/newsletter-assembly/)
- [Al-Anon](https://stjohnssterling.org/events/al-anon/)
- [NAMI](https://stjohnssterling.org/events/nami/)
- [Special Congregation Meeting](https://stjohnssterling.org/events/special-congregation-meeting/)
- [Citadel Communion](https://stjohnssterling.org/events/citadel-communion/)
- [Regency Communion](https://stjohnssterling.org/events/regency-communion/)
- [Worship](https://stjohnssterling.org/events/worship-2/)
- [Morningside Communion](https://stjohnssterling.org/events/morningside-communion/)
- [Parkway Communion](https://stjohnssterling.org/events/parkway-communion/)
- [Heritage Woods Communion](https://stjohnssterling.org/events/heritage-woods-communion/)
- [Council Meeting](https://stjohnssterling.org/events/council-meeting/)
- [Worship](https://stjohnssterling.org/events/worship/)

## Categories

- [Uncategorized](https://stjohnssterling.org/category/uncategorized/)
- [Newsletter](https://stjohnssterling.org/category/newsletter/)
- [News & Events](https://stjohnssterling.org/category/news-events/)
- [Staff](https://stjohnssterling.org/category/staff/)
- [Council](https://stjohnssterling.org/category/council/)
- [Youth & Family](https://stjohnssterling.org/category/youth-family/)