Alumni Newsletter

The Crusader

 

Summer 2005

Volume 2, Issue 1

On this page:  Alumni Reception, Focus on a Teacher, Vacation Bible School, Gift Giving at St. Paul, Letter from Principal Grebasch, What’s going on?

 

Alumni Reception

Wouldn’t it be nice to be on a tropical island right about now?  Many former St. Paul graduates and confirmands visited St. Paul on Sunday, June 13, 2004 during the annual church picnic for our island themed homecoming. 

Classes of the different decades met in the school’s discovery center for a reception.  These graduates and confirmands were able to recount different parts of St. Paul’s history because they were present when the events took place.  This made for lively discussion. 

The oldest graduate in attendance was Erma Fisher, a graduate of the class of 1818.  Robert Williams, a parent of a St. Paul grad, was on hand to help record the event.  He took pictures throughout the event.  Some of them are included in this newsletter others will soon be on the web site. 

A highlight of the event was the timeline.  Many graduates brought memorabilia from their time at St. Paul and placed it on a timeline.  Included in the items were confirmation pictures, team pictures, and a glass brick from the original school building.  Some students even brought the red and white ribbons they received for their 8th grade gradation.  The giving of these ribbons is still a part of St. Paul tradition. 

This year’s picnic will take place the second Sunday in June.  The picnic has always been great fun for all in attendance.  It would be great if you could join us. 

Many people voiced interest in getting a history of the school.  The brief history is that St. Paul school began as a mission of the church.  The first classes were held August 5, 1899 with 46 elementary school children.  Over the years both the congregation and the school have grown.  The structure had to be remodeled in 1966.  On Sunday, February 13, of that year a fire destroyed the Parish Building which housed five classrooms, the gymnasium, parish offices, and the youth rooms.  As a result, plans were made and construction began on new facilities.  This present facility was dedicated on October 20, 1968 and included 17 class areas, a discovery center, gymnasium, lunchroom, kitchen, meeting rooms, and a nursery. 

 

Focus on a Teacher

            Professional and energetic are two words that come to mind when thinking about Frieda Zemke.  Another adjective that comes to mind is dedicated.  During her 20 plus years at St. Paul, Frieda Zemke has exhibited a firm commitment to St. Paul and Lutheran education.  She first came to St. Paul as a substitute teacher.  As a frequent visitor in those days she was frequently asked, “who are you today.”

            In 1985, Leon Bierlein, the then principal, asked Mrs.  Zemke to come to St. Paul on a permanent basis as the 7th grade homeroom teacher.  Frieda Zemke taught 7th grade for three years before switching to 3rd grade.  In 2004 she returned to teaching 7th grade. 

            Wearing many hats did not stop when she stopped being a subsitute teacher.  In addition to her teaching responsibilities at St. Paul, Mrs. Zemke has contributed to St. Paul in many other ways including coaching cheerleading, choir directing, and assisting with the planning and execution of St. Paul’s annual basketball tournament, the Chicagoland Classic.  Mrs. Zemke admits that wearing all of these different hats is not always easy.  However, with the help of parents, Charles Haak the 8th grade teacher, the principle, Douglas Grebasch, her faith, and her family, juggling the different responsibilities is a bit easier and a lot more fun. 

 

 

Vacation Bible School

            One of the things that has not changed about St. Paul is Vacation Bible School.  Be sure kids you know have the greatest summer ever by attending Serengeti Trek: Where kids are wild about God!  You’ll find plenty of adventure at St. Paul Lutheran Church June 27 – July 1, 2005. 

            Each day children will be a part of fun Bible learning they can see, hear, touch, and even taste!  Bible story adventures, Bible Point Crafts, team-building games, lively Bible songs, daily video visits with “Chadder Chipmunk”, and tasty treats are just a few of the Serengeti Trek activities that help faith grow into real life.  Kids will even choose a Daily Challenge and put their faith into action by living out what they’ve learned. 

            Serengeti Trek is great fun for the whole family!  Children ages 3 through 5th grade can participate in the regular VBS program, children finishing 6th, 7th, and 8th grades can join in their own “WILD about God” youth program.  We’re especially looking looking forward to adults joining together for “Faith Trek”, a new adult Bible study!  There’s something for everyone this year at Serengeti Trek!  Call the church office to for registration information 708.343.1000. 

            Parents and grandparents can also enjoy all that VBS has to offer by helping as a volunteer.  Let’s Fill In the Gaps!  Help is still needed before and during VBS.  Volunteer opportunities include craft helpers, a jr.  high youth program leader, new adult Bible study leader, crew leaders (someone who can lead a small group of kids around all 5 days of VBS.  No prep work), snack time announcer), preschool club helper, registration helpers, greeters, and prep party participants.  How can YOU fill the gaps?  Contact Lisa Smith ASAP at 708.343.1000. 

 

Gift Giving at St. Paul

            Looking for an opportunity to support St. Paul.  Thrivent Financial for Lutherans is a Fortune 500 company.  Its main business involves insuring the future. 

            Thrivent Financial offers competitive  financial products and services to nearly 3 million members.  This company is routed in Christ's word, and takes seriously the command to help thy neighbor.  Thrivent Financial and its members provide approximately $200 million annually for programs and activities that support congregations, schools, charitable organizations and needy individuals. 

            Members can designate $50- $400 per year and Thrivent Financial will donate $0.50 for every dollar.  Non-members of Lutheran churches can also donate and have Thrivent extend their donation.  To do so, join Thrivent for a yearly fee of $10, then you can make a donation of $50-$100.  Thrivent will match this donation once per person per calendar year. 

            You can view and order member benefits on our Web site, www.thrivent.com.  Or order via telephone at 800.372.8236. 

 

 

Letter from Principal Grebasch

            IMAGINE constructing a home designed to protect from the onslaught of winter, the driving spring rains, the torrid heat of the summer sun, a home built to withstand not only the elements, but also offer the warmth and love of family and the security from all of life’s difficulties.  It doesn’t matter who you hire as carpenters, electricians, plumbers, or roofers, the home will not stand without a solid foundation.  The same is true in real life.  Without a solid foundation, you will not be able to withstand life’s challenges.  That foundation is faith in Jesus Christ.  That foundation is rock solid. 

            As alumni of St. Paul, your life was built on that firm foundation.  In that regard, nothing about St. Paul has changed.  Although internet usage is a vital part of the students’ life, our primary goal is still to bring little children to Jesus Christ. 

            We continue to give parents the opportunity to provide their children with a solid academic education founded in the love of Christ.  To do this St. Paul needs your help.  We need your prayers that God will continue to guide and bless our ministry.  We also need your financial support.  Through giving to the Rose Backhause Fund, the school’s grant-in-aid program, or Thrivant’s matching program you can assist families send their children to St. Paul.  Please contact the school office with any questions. 

            We pray that our gracious heavenly Father will continue to bless you and your family and that he may richly bless St. Paul’s ministry. 

 

 

What’s going on?

Do you know a graduate or confirmand who is not receiving “The Crusader”?  This means, we do not have current contact information for this individual.  Please call the school office and leave a message or e-mail us the person’s information.  Be sure to include the person’s maiden name if married, year of graduation and/or confirmation, address, telephone, and e-mail address.  Thanks!  Are you a graduate or confirmand of St. Paul School?  Have you achieved something that you want to share with your fellow Alum?  If you have recently gotten married, had a child, started a new job, received recognition for an achievement in the work place or the community we want to know about it!  Beginning in our next alumni publication we want to dedicate a portion of the newsletter to your accomplishments.  If you wish to post information please contact the school office at 708.343.5000 and leave a message for the Alumni Newsletter.  We look forward to hearing from you! 

 

Upcoming Events:

● Würst Picnic, June 12

● Vacation Bible School, June 27-July 1

● Teacher Rededication & anniversary celebration.  (August) Contact school office for date & time.

Douglas Grebasch, 35 years in ministry

Charles Haak, 35 years in ministry & 30 years at St. Paul

Oliver Hemmann, 25 years at St. Paul

 

____________________________________

Mr.  Douglas Grebasch, Principal

Rev.  David Kluge, Interim Pastor

Gabrielle Brown, Editor

 

Church: 708-343-1000

School 708.343.5000

www.stpaulmp.org

Email: geb19104(at symbol)yahoo.com

 

Contact Gabrielle Brown geb19104@yahoo.com with any questions.

 

St. Paul Lutheran Church and School, 1025 Lake Street, Melrose Park, Illinois 60160; Church: 708‑343‑1000, School: 708‑343‑5000

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