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08/15/26

“O woman, great is your faith! Be it done for you as you desire.” And her daughter was healed instantly. Matthew 15:28

Friends and Members of St. Paul’s,

To receive a compliment from someone we respect and admire is a wonderful thing. Imagine, then, hearing Jesus say of you, “Great is your faith!” Only two times in the New Testament does Jesus describes someone’s faith as “great.” The first was a Roman military officer who came to Jesus on behalf of his servant. (Matthew 8:5–13). He trusted that Jesus could heal his servant simply by speaking a word. The second is the Canaanite woman in our Gospel reading for this upcoming Sunday. Both were outsiders—Gentiles—and both were desperate for help that only Jesus could provide. In the case of the Canaanite woman, roadblock after roadblock was placed in her way as she sought help for her demon-oppressed daughter. Yet she remained undaunted. That is what great faith looks like. Great faith does not mean that we have everything together. Rather, it means that we cling to Jesus when everything else falters. Great faith trusts that He alone is able to provide the help we desperately need. Praise God for the people our lives who, even in the most desperate of circumstances, show us what great faith looks like. Even greater praise to our Savior Jesus, who is the author and perfecter of such faith.

Blessings in Christ,

Pastor Krenz

Sunday/Monday Worship Theme: Why the Church? Through the church God gathers the outcasts. Isaiah 56:1,6-8.

Children’s Sunday School Starts Today! Following the service... The lesson this week is “A Mighty Wonder.” In six days-through His spoken Word alone-the heavenly Father creates a universe so vast and complex it defies our limited human understanding. Humankind, the crown of His creation, made n His own image, comes to be through the intimate work of His hands and with His own breath. Discuss the wonders of God’s creation with your family.

Adult Sunday Bible Class: New Sunday Bible Class on 1 Peter- Please join us today, Sunday, in the fellowship hall for the 2nd week verse by verse Bible Study of 1 Peter.

Back to Church October: Do you have a friend, a family member, or an acquaintance who at one time participated in the life of the church but lately that is not the case. The Board of Elders is inviting members and friends of the congregation to first pray for friends, family, and others who are missing out on all the blessings God’s Word gives through the weekly regular worship services. It may surprise you to note that according to an article titled “Coming Home” written by Thom Rainer and Sam Rainer in “Outreach Magazine” 41% of the formerly churched said that they would return to the local church if a friend or acquaintance invited them. Let us pray for such opportunities. If they return in August or September, that is fine too 😊 “O come, let us sing to the Lord! Let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation. Let us come into His presence with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise! “

Saint Paul Church Choir will start up again on Monday, Sept. 14 at 5:15 PM. All voices are needed and welcome to this fun group! Please text Karen Shimkus at 618-540-0810 with any questions.

Handbell Choir will start up again in September. Interested ringers—please join us! Contact Mark Eischer 314-706-4250 for more info.

Considering the call: Hannah Elsey was extended a call to serve as our DCE here at St. Paul’s at our August 2nd Voter’s meeting. She and her husband Sam are scheduled to visit here on Saturday, August 22nd and Sunday, August 23rd. Please keep her in your prayers as she considers this new position.

High School Youth Pool Party at the Ottwell’s Sunday, August 30th 4-7 pm All students entering 8th through 12th grade are invited to join us for a fun evening as we kick off the new school year. We’ll have pizza, and you’re welcome to bring a favorite snack to share! Grab your swimsuit and towel, invite a friend, and come ready for a fun night at the pool. We can’t wait to see you there!

Southern Illinois District Youth Gathering: Join us on Saturday, August 29 from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Collinsville, IL.

This day is set apart for high school youth to pause, rest, and be renewed in Christ. In the middle of busy schedules and constant noise, this gathering is an opportunity to step away and reflect on the true rest given to us through our Savior, Jesus Christ. Come spend the day in Bible study, worship, fellowship, and meaningful activities designed to encourage and restore. The day will feature a keynote from Rev. Brandon Metcalf, along with breakout sessions from Barry Pfeiffer on “The Blessing of Boredom” and Laura Morrison on “Finding Sabbath.” Enjoy pastries and coffee in the morning, plus lunch provided with subs and salads from Firehouse. Contact Becky Stevens (618-550-3552) for more info. Cost is $25 per person. Don’t miss it—register today at sidlcms.org/events.

Church Building Repair Update:

We are waiting to receive bids from contractors. Hope to move forward next week.

Food Pantry Update: Needed: Cake Mix, Brownie Mix, Canned Fruit Aug 12 Served: 14 Families = 27 Adults + 7 Children. Next food pantry August 19 1:30-3 pm

EVE’S RESTORATION MINISTRIES Please join us for our 2nd Annual Dinner Hop. Each Ticket Includes a 3-Course Meal and Activities throughout the night. Saturday, August 29, 2026 3:30-7 pm Registration: $50 per person Dinner Hop 2026 Registration

Please join the Ladies League LWML in supporting our September Service Project. We are collecting (NEW) underwear and socks for the Orphan Grain Train. For the next 5 Sundays in August please bring (NEW) packages of children’s, women, or men’s underwear or socks and place in collection box in the narthex. The Ladies League LWML will sort the items at our September meeting. Thank you in advance for your generosity. Something so simple means so much to those in need of them.

Life Network’s Annual Trivia Fundraiser September 19. at Waterloo High School 5 pm Doors Open 6 pm Start Time $250 Table Fee/ 10 Reservations CALL: 618-939-4224