1. Our online Easter sunrise and festival services were viewed nearly 1100 times. Because we don't know how many people each viewing represents, there is no way to get a completely accurate "attendance" count for these virtual worship services. Regardless of the total numbers, what a blessing it was to be able to share the glorious news of Christ's resurrection with such a large audience!

2. We began a new Sunday morning Bible study, "For the Generations to Come," focusing on the shifting reality for the church in 21st century America and what we as Christians can do in response. Led by Pastor Bitter, this online study provides excellent opportunities to plan for seizing the opportunities God has placed before us when our society starts to reopen.

1. This week, we kicked off a "virtual tour" of St. John's on social media. This series of posts will showcase some of the nooks and crannies at St. John's that you might not normally get to see. Check out the pictures of the bell tower from earlier this week, and watch for more virtual tour pictures on our Facebook page.

Most of our small group Bible studies are temporarily on hiatus, but there are many online options available for personal devotions. One Minute Bible Bits from Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary are one such resource. These one-minute videos walk through many of our core Lutheran teachings and are a wonderful review of the basics of our faith. Click here for these devotions, and watch for more online devotional resources each week.

Although you are not able to drop your offering in the basket on Sunday morning, we encourage you to continue giving as you are able to support the Lord's work being done in our community and around the world. We have a number of easy and secure online giving options available: electronic funds transfer, credit/debit card, PayPal, text to give, and more. Click here for more information.

During this time of being physically apart, we want to hear what you most appreciate about St. John's! Today's quote comes from Lorrie Hansen: "I most appreciate the concern our pastors have for the members of our congregation. They are very approachable, friendly and welcoming. It doesn’t matter if the interaction is in person, on the phone, or electronically. They let you know that they really care and that you are an important member of this church family." What do you most appreciate about St. John's? Click here to share your thoughts.

Most of our small group Bible studies are temporarily on hiatus, but there are many online options available for personal devotions. Grace Moments from Time of Grace Ministries are one such resource. These daily devotions cover a wide variety of topics and help you experience a satisfied life as you see God all around you. Click here for these devotions, and watch for more online devotional resources each week.

Beginning Sunday, April 19 - We’ve probably all seen the numbers. Christianity in America (and in our Wisconsin Synod) is in the midst of a substantial numeric decline – and the rate of decline has been increasing. What can Christians do? What should Christians do? What does God want us to do? Pastor Jon Hein tackled all these questions – and more – in his plenary address at last summer’s Synod Convention. Led by Pastor Bitter, this online Bible study will watch segments of Pastor Hein’s presentation and discuss applications to church life at St. John’s. As in the previous online Bible study, text-in comments and questions are encouraged. Things might be unusually quiet right now, but that makes this an excellent time to plan for seizing the opportunities God has placed before us when society starts to reopen. For class materials, visit www.sjtosa.org/GenerationsToCome.

During this time of being physically apart, we want to hear what you most appreciate about St. John's! Today's quote comes from Julie Handeland: "I love the opportunities at St. John’s to volunteer, both at the church and the school. It lets me get to know the school kids and the church families. I’ve made some good friends there, of many ages. I’ve been able to establish good relationships with the teens through directing, going on the mission trip and attending teen events, and with the adults in the adult bell choir." What do you most appreciate about St. John's? Click here to share your thoughts.

St. John's is hosting a Blood Drive in our School Commons area Wednesday, April 15, 2020. We are observing all social distancing protocols during this event.  Please be sure you are healthy, well-hydrated, and follow guidelines for safe interactions with others while you make your donation. Click here to schedule your appointment. Appointment times are available from 10:30 a.m. through 3:15 p.m.

“The patients in our communities and our hospital partners continue to rely on the generosity of donors. We can only rely on each other for this precious resource,” said Versiti Chief Medical Officer Tom Abshire, M.D.  “The donation process itself poses no risk of infecting a donor with coronavirus. Donors and our blood drive sponsors should be reassured that attending organized blood drives is safe."

During this time of being physically apart, we want to hear what you most appreciate about St. John's! Today's quote comes from Jenny Lindert: "My church family is my second family. I have made many friendships over the years and cherish them all. They keep me grounded and strong in my faith." What do you most appreciate about St. John's? Click here to share your thoughts.