July 24, 2025 E-Vine

Set Free: Paul’s Letter to the Galatians
“No Human Invention”

July 27, 2025
CLICK HERE FOR SERVICE NOTES.

As We Gather

The Gospel is the good news of God’s free grace and salvation through faith in Jesus Christ, the announcement that Jesus Christ, by His life, death, and resurrection has completely secured our forgiveness and salvation.  But where did this message come from?  In our passage from Galatians today, Paul is defending himself against the charge that he just made it up.  Instead he proclaims that the gospel is of no human invention but rather comes from God himself.  We make the same claim today as we seek to share this good news with all.

 

 

Ongoing News and Information

 

Church Office Hours
During the summer, and especially while we are in the process of seeking to hire a new full-time office manager, the church office will have reduced hours when someone is present in the office.  There will be someone in the office on most days until noon.  Please feel free to leave a message if there is no one to take your phone call.  We ask for your patience during this time of transition, and also for your prayers as we seek new staff.

 

 

Pastor Mike’s Bible Class
Germany, Luther, and History Churches
Bible Class this Sunday will focus on Pastor Mike and Teresa’s recent trip to Germany.  Among other things, the trip included numerous sites associated with Martin Luther and the Reformation, as well as multiple historic churches.  We will share pictures, tell stories, answer questions about church history and the church today.  All are invited.  We will meet at 11:00 in Room 8.

   

Sanctuary Lighting Upgrade

Let There Be Lights!

The long overdue project to update and enhance the lighting in the sanctuary is here!  What is included in this upgrade?

  • LED lighting throughout the sanctuary, replacing the incandescent lights and original fixtures.
  • Enhanced lighting of the chancel (front of the sanctuary) for better visibility.
  • Updated controls and integration with the worship tech station
  • Better cameras for recording and stream that can easily be controlled by worship tech for pan, tilt and zoom.

The Board of Directors has approved funds from the Michael Thomas bequest for a portion of this project.  We are inviting the St. John’s community to support the rest.
 
Our goal is $50,000.  We give thanks to God that we are over half-way to reaching this goal.  If you would like to make an offering to “Let There Be Lights,” please indicate on your check or online that it is for the lighting project.
 

    

 

 

National Youth Gathering in New Orleans

The National Youth Gathering just concluded and was an amazing experience for all of our youth and adult attendees.  Thank you for your prayers of support.  We plan to share about our time at NYG with the congregation on Sunday, August 3 during the service.  
 

 

We have added a few members to our team and we are always looking for more. It’s a joy to share the gospel with the young kids at their level each week! If you are interested in serving in Children’s Church occasionally please contact Kevin Mathison or the Church Office. 

 

 

SOCIAL MEDIA
Follow St. John’s Youth Ministry on Social Media to keep up with all the latest information! 
Facebook: SJL Napa Youth Ministry
Instagram: St. John’s Lutheran Napa Youth 
                                                                             
 

           

Every week is an opportunity to invite someone to join with us in worship, whether in person or online. The first step, though, is to pray for those whom you may invite.  Who can you pray for?  Who will you invite?  

 

 

You can CLICK HERE to give your offering online.   

 

 

 

Stephen Ministers Grow in the Lord
The more you focus on the Lord and do God’s work, the more satisfaction you will find.  It’s that simple!  Are you looking for more satisfaction in your life?  Consider serving our congregation as a Stephen Minister.  By helping others, you will help God’s kingdom grow – and you will grow too!  To learn more about Stephen Ministry and what Stephen Ministers do, contact Penni Cremen (707-483-9321) or Pastor Mike at the church office (707-255-0119).

Women’s Bible Study will resume after the Summer.

                                                

Men’s Saturday Morning Bible Study

The Men’s Saturday Morning Bible Study is currently studying the Gospel of Luke. Join us for fellowship at 7:30 AM and Bible Study from 8-9 AM

 

 

Biblical Counseling at St John’s? 

The Biblical Counseling Center of Napa Valley

The Biblical Counseling Center of Napa Valley is a ministry to the families of St. John’s Lutheran Church and all Christians in the greater Napa area. Our center began some 25 years ago to offer strength and direction to those Christians suffering through trials and tribulations using the promises and hope the Bible offers to those who trust Jesus as their Lord and Savior.   To learn more, CLICK HERE.  If you, or someone you know, is struggling with life’s stressors, please consider giving us a call at 707-738-5306.   (We are a free ministry to all).
 


Right Now Media
Right now media is an online resource providing Christian videos for all ages:  Children’s resource, Bible Studies, lectures and more.  As a congregation, we have subscribed to Right Now Media, so access is free for all in our St. John’s family. If you haven’t already signed up for Right Now Media, CLICK HERE.
 

Where do I find sermons and services that I missed?

You can find previous sermons in three places.  The full services are available on the YouTube channel.