~ Important News! ~
Worship continues each Sunday morning at 9am in the Sanctuary.
(We will continue to offer the service online via Zoom, Facebook Live, and here on the website.)
From the Pastor...
My prayer for this Independence Day...
I pray for an end to the COVID-19 pandemic, and for strength and courage for those who are caring for the sick. I pray for gifts of wisdom and discernment for those who we entrust with leadership. I pray for civility in public discourse, and for ways to find unity in our common life as Americans. I pray for an end to the violence in our streets, for an end to race hatred, and for a nation that lives in peace both within its borders and among the other nations of the world. I pray for the just and proper use of the resources of the Earth that are God's gifts to us. I pray that our military, our law enforcement, and all who serve the common good, will be safe from harm and will act justly and with integrity. And I thank God that we live in a land in which we can not only pray for these things, but in which we have the liberty to work toward them as well. Have a safe and peaceful 4th of July! Steve Mindrup An Update from our Seminary Graduate, Maria Bonine!
By the Grace of God and the help of St. John's, I made it! On Sunday, May 17th , I graduated from Wartburg Theological Seminary – virtually, from the comfort of my living room through Zoom. (I know some of you attended. THANK YOU!) Naturally, the question of 'what next?' has been at the heart of my thoughts and conversations. The best way for me to describe this time period is "in the holding tank."
I have begun the interview process, and I am in conversation with a congregation in Southern Illinois. With the pandemic crisis, the process is not able to move at the pace the congregation or I would prefer, thus "the holding tank." Not being able to meet in person creates a whole new level of exercising faith, while waiting to take the next step. When the time does arrive for a church to extend a call to me, I will discern if it is the right call for me. After being offered and accepting a call, ordination will follow. I am hopeful that this special service will be able to take place at St. John's. The timeline is uncertain. In the meantime, being in "the holding tank", allows me time to rest and plan for the future. I am where I am right now because of the church. Each of you has played an essential part of my faith formation as a beloved child of God and as one called to the ministry of Word and Sacrament. Your encouragement and support made it possible for me to discern God's call, accept that call, and journey the path to seminary. Your prayers, cards, and financial support sustained me for four years of intense study and travel to and from seminary commitments. As I continue to be in awe of the beloved people of St. John’s, I give thanks to God for your faithfulness. I trust that while I wait in “the holding tank” God continues to be at work in my preparing me for first call and is preparing the community I will serve. In Christ, Maria Bonine Pastoral Care
If you find yourself in need of pastoral care while we are without a full-time pastor, we ask you to confidentially speak with our Interim Pastor, Youth Director or office staff. We will connect you with a pastor or appropriate ministry person to assist you.
Help Yourself...
Our quilting ladies have been working on “Walker Bags” for residents of area nursing homes. They are also making them available to members of our congregation. You will find a basket full of these colorful and handy fabric bags in the Narthex. Please feel free to take one for yourself or someone you know.
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Special Information
With the exception of Sunday morning worship, the church building remains closed for events and activities.
If you have any concerns or health issues, are high-risk or have been sick or around someone who has tested positive for Covid-19, we strongly recommend you remain at home and watch worship services online via Zoom, Facebook Live or on our website at www.stjohnsmendota.org. The church office staff is available to assist you Monday—Thursday from 8:30am to noon. Zoom Log-in Information for
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