New Apostolic Church USA John W. Fendt, Jr. FAX/email TRANSMITTAL SHEET This message is being sent via fax and email To: Apostle Hammer & Schmidt Bishops Freund, Milligan, Orlofski, Schwartz and Tessmer; District Elders D. Bauer, H. Bauer, Crerar, Diem, Fendt, Geipel, Gorenflo, Guderian, Kuechler, Schmidt, Taylor and Vovak: District Evangelists Haase, Hensbergen and Schwartz From: John W. Fendt, Jr. Date: October 26, 2003 Re: November 2003 Service for the Departed My very dear Brothers: Whenever we approach an event such as the Service for the Departed, many feelings move through our souls in our ministries and personally. Yesterday, our District Apostle shared a word with us, which we will share herein with you. This is NOT a circular for a divine service, neither is it a letter to be read to the congregations. It is just something which you can ponder and share with the Brothers as you see fit. Ecclesiasticus 44:1-15 (the following thoughts follow the sequence in these verses) v.1 Famous men are not necessarily well known. They are those who, for instance, had impact on a family or were loyal, often quiet, workers in the congregation. v.2 The Lord wrought great glory by them, through His power — this means that they know how to run their household — similar to Joshua who decided within himself that he must take charge of his responsibility and be a leader in that sphere. v.3 Power can be used for good and bad; on e must know how to use it properly. Christ was the perfect example. All power was given to Him, but he never glorified Himsetf or avenged Himself with it. Giving counsel refers to what these fathers did and said. They know where they were going and what they were doing. v.4 Are we wise and eloquent? Eloquent means that we are an example and that we have (spiritual) things in their right place (priorities are right). It means that we bear rule in our own ‘kingdom’ and care for our area of responsibility. And that we don’t waste time worrying about anyone else's responsibility. v.5 When we look in our hymnal, we can see the names of many who wrote the words and music of our hymns. Some among us today still to this work. 8 Cif, New ¥ 79 USAv.6 Rich has nothing to do with money or material wealth. This refers to spiritual riches, having substance and bringing life and spirit into the congregation. Lovers of peace exude peace. v.7 These individuals were the glory of their times. v.8 -9 They have a name in God's heart and among His children. Names like kind, loving, faithful, and loyal. v.10 These names remain and the righteousness of such individuals is not forgotten. v.11 —14 The seed is us. We must promote the good out of our inheritance and never fail to consider the heritage from which we have come, both personally and it the congregation. We don't want to forget those who made it possible for us to have what we have, both spiritually and naturally. v.15 Ultimately, the congregation will (should be able to) shew forth the praise of what we've done. This will not be evident to us, necessarily, but will be evident to our Heavenly Father and to our District Apostle and Chief Apostle. Dear Brothers, our District Apostle mentioned that we do not want to overlook our spiritual forefathers as we approach November 2. And we will also, surely do the work towards the many souls seeking and needing help through word and sacrament in the Service for the Departed. For your information, our Chief Apostle will conduct Departed Service in Ouagadougou, Burkino Faso and our District Apostle will be in New York. This information on where the Chief Apostle and District Apostle will be for Departed Service should be shared with all those who will hold service on November 2 and they should mention this to the congregation. We will carry all of you in prayer as we approach this special event in the Lord’s Work. Heartfelt greetings to each of you and your families; G4 %. bee. John W. Fendt, Jr. Total pages sent, including this one: _2 404 Glen Cove. Sea Cliff, New 11579 USA