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St. Paul's
Evangelical Lutheran Church
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127 Cherry Rd. NE, Massillon, OH 44646
330 832-7409
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Contact Us: Click to send an email
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- Faith & Freedom: A Christian Reflection on the Fourth of July
- Upcoming Events
- Blood Drive Dates
- Chair Yoga
- Celebration in the Sky
- Church Council Highlights
- Income and Expense Summary
- Capital Fund Update
- Impact Massillon
- School Supplies Wanted
- Communion Bread Bakers
- Accessible Building Entrances During Construction
- June Community Meal Report
- Invitation to Graduation Recital
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- Scholarship Application Time
- Beautiful Flowers for Pentecost
- Snip-N-Stitch Welcomes Fabric Donations
- Prayer List Update
- July Birthdays
- July Wedding Anniversaries
- Baptism of Evelyn Leigh Rupp
- July Wedding Anniversaries
- Sympathies
- Flowers for the Altar for 2025
- Council Members
- Committee Members
- Serving During the Month of July
- New Assisted Hearing Devices Available
- St. Paul's Phone App
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Faith & Freedom: A Christian Reflection on the Fourth of July
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Dear Church Family,
As the Fourth of July approaches, our hearts swell with gratitude for the freedoms we enjoy as citizens of this nation. We gather with family, wave our flags, sing our anthems, and watch fireworks light up the sky. We remember with pride the courage of those who stood for liberty and helped forge a nation built on the ideal that all people are created equal.
But while the birth of our nation marks an important celebration of political freedom, Scripture invites us to reflect on a deeper and more lasting freedom—one that transcends national boundaries and political systems.
The Apostle Paul writes in Galatians 5:1, “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.” The freedom Paul speaks of is not simply freedom from human rulers or oppression. It is freedom from the power of sin and death, from guilt and shame, and from the lie that our worth is measured by anything other than God’s grace.
And in that same letter, Paul reminds us of the radical unity that comes through that freedom:
“There is no longer Jew or Greek, there is no longer slave or free, there is no longer male and female; for all of you are one in Christ Jesus.” (Galatians 3:28)
In Christ, we find a new identity—not based on race, gender, status, or nationality, but grounded in the love and mercy of God. While our world often divides us, the Gospel unites us. While our society sometimes builds walls, the Spirit of God breaks them down.
On this holiday when we celebrate freedom, let us also celebrate unity—the kind that only Jesus can bring.
As American citizens, we are thankful for the blessings of liberty. But as citizens of God’s Kingdom, we are called to a higher purpose: to live in love, to serve our neighbor, and to proclaim a freedom that will never fade.
So this Fourth of July:
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- Give thanks for those who have sacrificed for our freedom.
- Pray for our country and its leaders.
- Reflect on the unity we are called to live out as the Body of Christ.
- And remember that true freedom is not just doing what we want—it is being who God created us to be: free, forgiven, and united in Christ.
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May your celebrations be joyful, your hearts be grateful, and your lives be a witness to the true freedom found in Jesus.
In Christ’s peace and freedom,
Pastor Mark
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The church calendar is always available on every page of the church website on the right side, along with the church address, phone number, email address, and Youtube link for the online services. The online calendar contains the most up-to-date listing of events.
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Sunday: Worship 10:00 am
Thursday: Chair Yoga 10:00 am
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Worship and Music Committee (1st Tuesday of month)--no meeting in July
Thursday, July 3, 6 pm: Friendship Circle. (1st Thursday of month)
Tuesday, July 8, 7 pm: Church Council (2nd Tuesday of month)
Friday, July 11, 4:30-6:00 pm: Community Meal and Clothes Closet
(2nd Friday of month)
Tuesday, July 15, 6 pm: Finance Committee (3rd Tuesday of month)
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July 3, dusk: View Massillon Fireworks on the west lawn of the church.
August 2, 2 pm: Graduation Recital for Anderson Rambler
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August 17: Congregational Meeting, Annual Report (2024-2025)
August 24: 25th Anniversary in Ministry for Pastor Mark, Special Service and Celebration
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Save the dates to give the gift of life.
2025 Blood Drives @ St. Paul's:
Saturday, July 26, 2025: 9am-2pm
Monday, August 25, 2025: Noon until 6:00 pm
Click on or copy and paste the link below to schedule an appointment for our next blood drive.
https://www.redcrossblood.org/
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Stay in shape this summer! Barb Palmer has graciously agreed to lead a Chair Yoga class. We will meet every Thursday around 10 am in the Parish Hall top floor classroom. This very low impact class lasts about half an hour.
And the cost? IT IS FREE.
Hope to see you there.
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Church Council Highlights
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Report from June 10, 2025
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Pastor Mark announced the upcoming scheduled baptism of Evelyn Rupp, infant daughter of Morgan and Brady Rupp, on Sunday, June 15. Pastor Mark also reported that Randy Balder and Georgiana Sombrio have asked to become members of St. Paul’s. Church Council approved their applications for membership. As a church, we will celebrate Pastor Mark’s 25th year anniversary in ministry. There will be a special Sunday church service on August 24th with Reverend Karen Asmus-Alsnauer, who presided over the wedding of Pastor Mark and Veronica, preaching on that day.
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Capital Campaign and Construction
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The current capital improvement renovation project for the new accessible restrooms across from the lounge, new front driveway and entry way is continuing to proceed as planned and is being well managed by architect John Picard and general contractor, Brandy Schaffer. The cooperation from our St. Paul’s community has been outstanding as we have had to alter entry points into the church and restrict access to the main floor restroom off the side entrance. Just a reminder, there is a restroom that may be used just off the robing room (pulpit side of the church beyond the altar) for those who are not able to access the restrooms on the lower level of the church. Thank you for your patience as we move through the renovation and construction taking place this summer. Projected completion date is September 1.
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Welfare and Social Action Committee
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Cindy Lash, chair of the Welfare and Social Action Committee reported there will once again be an opportunity for us to contribute to the Salvation Army Back-to-School Bash program. Watch for drop off locations as you purchase school supplies for children who need this assistance. It was also reported that we received a $1000 contribution from the Massillon Community Charitable Fund for our clothing closet specifically for the purpose of purchasing underclothing and socks. Thanks to Dan Farrar for his initiative in applying for the grant.
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Worship and Music Committee
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The report for the Worship and Music Committee was given by Greg Klein, chair, who shared an update on the purchase of a new carillon for the church. At the May 18th business meeting, the congregation approved spending up to $23,000 on a new system. The committee along with Abby Haake, our organist, are exploring the very best systems to choose to install at St. Paul’s. It is hoped that by the end of summer the new carillon will be available for use.
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August Congregational Meeting
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Under new business, Council approved the date of the August congregational meeting, which will be held after the morning worship service on August 17th. This is the meeting where the Annual Report to the Congregation is presented and reviewed. If you have leadership responsibilities for a committee or ministry group, please electronically submit your report to Tracie Schmolt by August 1. Thank you!
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At this Council meeting, we welcomed as observers new Council members Jim Johnson, Lynda Klein, Sue Reid and Brady Rupp, all elected at the May congregational meeting. We also extended our thanks to those who have completed their terms and are going off Council, including Cindy Lash, Tracie Schmolt, Carol Stoner, and Patty Long.
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After the regular Council business meeting was concluded, Pastor Mark convened a brief meeting, as our Church Constitution directs, in order to elect new Council officers. The Council officers for 2025-2026 include Kathryn Myers, President; Greg Klein, Vice-President; Jackie Pritchett, Secretary; and Dan Farrar, Treasurer. The willingness of these individuals to serve our church in leadership positions is greatly appreciated!
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Note from Outgoing Council President
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I am grateful for the opportunity to have served as Council President for the past two years and thank God every day for the privilege of being a part of the loving and supportive community that is St. Paul’s Church in Massillon. May the Lord continue to bless us, and may we continue to faithfully serve Jesus Christ with all that we are and have, to the glory of his holy name.
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Respectfully shared,
Patty Long
Outgoing President, Church Council
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Income and Expense Summary
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Capital Campaign Update Notes from Pastor Mark
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Construction is well underway on our new entrance and restrooms, and we are deeply grateful for the generosity of our members that has made this possible—the project is fully funded!
However, this is not the end of our building and maintenance needs. Two important projects still lie ahead: addressing the window wells around the base of the Parish Hall and upgrading the heating and cooling system in that same space. While we do not yet have formal estimates for these projects, we know they will come at a significant cost.
That’s why we are asking everyone to continue supporting the Capital Campaign. Your continued giving will ensure that we can maintain a safe, welcoming, and comfortable environment for all who come through our doors.
We hope to have estimates for the next phase of work by the end of the summer and will keep you informed as those plans develop. In the meantime, thank you for your ongoing faithfulness and generosity.
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These young men of Massillon and our team of volunteers definitely made an impact! See more photos on our St. Paul's Facebook page.
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We are using fresh baked bread for Communion once a month. If you would be interested in baking bread for this very special part of worship, please contact Kathryn Myers. Recipes for this type of bread are available for you.
Four have signed up already, but we can always use more!
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Accessible Building Entrances During Construction
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Due to construction, the chairlift will be unavailable until further notice.
The east side entrance under the archway into the church building is also unavailable for use.
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- Those who park in the lower lot on Sundays are encouraged to use the sidewalk along First Street and access the church through the west side door. Or if you want to enter the Parish Hall, you may use the stairs up from the parking lot and enter through the rear door and exit the front door.
- Those parking in the upper lot and along the street may enter the church building through the east side doors.
- Parish Hall may be accessed through the main door facing Cherry Rd.
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Watch for signs updating access as the construction moves forward.
Updates will also be announced on our website, Facebook, and in the church app.
Thank you for your patience!
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June Community Meal Report
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On a warm and humid afternoon, (with occasional downpours!), we fed 73 with broasted chicken, mixed vegetables, applesauce, roll with butter and dessert. We saw more than usual attend our clothing closet this evening.
A big thank you to Cindy Lash, Tracie Schmolt, Carol Stoner, and our non-member volunteers who keep this mission moving forward and strong. You’re much appreciated, ladies!
If you’re interested in providing desserts for our meals, please deliver them to the church the Friday by noon, the day of our meal. If you don’t have time, or are not a baker, financial donations are always welcomed. Our next meal is July 11th and wil consist of picnic type foods.
Please continue to pray for our mission and those in need. If you have any questions, please reach out to Kim or David.
phone links: Kim Oberlin and David Stoner
email links: Kim Oberlin and David Stoner
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Invitation to Graduation Recital
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You are invited to hear the beautiful music of our frequent guest soloist and Chancel Choir member, Anderson Rambler. He recently graduated from the Akron School for the Arts at Firestone High School.
Andy has distinguished himself in vocal competitions, earning 1st Place in the Schmidt Vocal Competition (Ohio), 1st Place in both the Classical and American Spiritual categories at Ohio NATS, and 2nd Place at Shining Star CLE. Andy was a member of Firestone’s Symphonic and Madrigal Choirs, which we enjoyed so much in the Advent season. Next fall, Andy will attend the Oberlin Conservatory of Music to pursue a degree in Vocal Performance.
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Andy singing a solo during one of his recent visits to St. Paul's.
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Scholarship Application Time
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It's time to apply or renew scholarship applications for the 2025-2026 fall semester.
All renewal applications are sent via email and texted to the recipients from the previous year.
New applicants can request an application starting July 13 by texting Barb Palmer at 330-244-1602 for the application link.
DEADLINE to be considered for the scholarship is August 8. Scholarship recipients will then be voted upon by the Scholarship Committee. Recipients will be notified, and rewards will be sent via postal mail to the address on the application within the month of August.
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Beautiful Flowers for Pentecost
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Thank you to Janet Kuller for tending to these 87 pots of geraniums for two weeks in preparation for Pentecost.
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Snip-N-Stitch Welcomes Fabric Donations
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Whether you have leftover fabric from a sewing project or you're cleaning out your closets or maybe hitting the summer garage sales, we would welcome any fabric that you might like to donate to Snip-N-Stitch! We can use large pieces of fabric or small remnants.
This small but mighty group has been busy this year making our quilts for Lutheran World Relief. These quilts provide comfort and warmth to communities and families all over the world who are struggling with poverty or need humanitarian assistance after a disaster strikes. LWR offers aid and our quilts to American families as well, most recently due to the catastrophic tornadoes, high winds and flooding in the Southern and Midwestern states.
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Darlene Lewis, Cindy Nash, Michael Jordan, Jack Norton, Paul Daily, Rick Thesis, Stephanie Brooks, Jerry Sturtz, Judy Hall, Richard Green, Tina Cotopolis, Izabella Edwards, Randy Balder, Jessica Cascera, Phyllis Wilson, Jackie Whitman, and Jessie Shaffer.
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Favorite Bible or hymn verses: Every month we invite those celebrating birthdays to share their favorite verses. Be ready to send in yours!
Jackie Pritchett, July 22:
“For by grace you have been saved through faith, and this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God— not the result of works, so that no one may boast.” Ephesians 2:8-9
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July 4--Alayna Dunlap
July 5--Donna Viles
July 5--Robert Lewis
July 5--Diana Burns
July 9--Marie Stoner
July 10---David Allman
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July 13--Mary Ann Poling
July 13--Larissa Haring
July 13--Brady Rupp
July 16--Anna Langenfeld
July 17--Daniel Bennett
July 22--Jackie Pritchett
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July 24--Harry Morgan
July 24--Ricky Richards
July 29--Caroline Deerwester
July 30--Robert Englehart
July 30--Jan Geuy
July 30--Emma Lafferty
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Has your birthday or anniversary been missing from the published lists? If so, please contact the office so we can add it to our database. Thank you!
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July Wedding Anniversaries
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We celebrate with these couples and congratulate them on another milestone in their lives together!
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July 1--Scott & Debra Hannum
July 8--Patricia & Bob Long
July 10--James & Barbara Starrett
July 12--Jonathon & Amy Stuck
July 13--Paul & Susan White
July 13--Brady & Morgan Rupp
July 16--Michael & Wendy Reiman
July 17--Mary Elizabeth and John Helper
July 18--Paul & Linda Mutchler
July 22--David & Amy Burkett
July 25--David & Bronwyn Dourm
July 26--Jim & Debra Stevens
July 29--Jason & Abbie Deuble
July 31--Larry & Marie Stoner
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We celebrated the baptism of Evelyn Leigh Rupp on June 15. Her parents are Morgan and Brady Rupp. Godparents are Trey Rupp and Kyla Fisher.
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Little Evelyn was serene during the entire ceremony.
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Pastor Mark had the privilege of presenting Evelyn to the congregation.
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We extend our sympathy to the family of Nancy Shankle, who passed away on May 28, 2025.
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Flowers for the Altar for 2025
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Please text Sue Ambrosic at 330-844-7648 if you would like to have the Altar or Throne flowers for 2025.
The cost of Altar flowers is $40 per Sunday; the Throne flowers are $28. Please contact Patty Carmola if you have any questions at 330-832-9405. You will be billed directly by Carmola's Flowers in Massillon.
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Dwight Butler
Gary Collard
Shane Jackson
Jim Johnson
Lynda Klein
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Dennis Morgan
Barb Palmer
Sue Reid
Brady Rupp
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Kathryn Myers, Chair
Amy Burkett,
Sue Ambrosic
Gayle Jackson
Becky Johnson
Cindy Lash
Deidra Monastra
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Dan Farrar, Chair
Shane Jackson
Greg Klein
John Liebermann
Patty Long
Brady Rupp
Tracie Schmolt
John Stanko
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Greg Klein, Chair
Carol Butler
Dwight Butler
Abigail Haake
Karl Kalk
Patty Long
Kathryn Myers
Kim Oberlin
Phyllis Staver
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WELFARE AND SOCIAL ACTION
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Barb Palmer, Chair
Christine Bates
Judy Fichter
Lynda Klein
Deidra Monastra
Kathryn Myers
Kim Oberlin
JuDee Reed
David Stoner
LaShell Williamson
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Jim Johnson, Chair
Dave Allman
Joe Hepler
John Liebermann
Dennis Morgan, Liaison for Chair
Paul Mutchler
John Stanko
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YOUTH AND PARISH EDUCATION
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Serving During the Month of July
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If you are interested in serving for a future month, click on the contact person's email link.
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Contact Karl Kalk
7/6 Kathryn Myers
7/13 David Stoner
7/20 Karl Kalk
7/27 Veronica Kreemer
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Contact Kathryn Myers
7/6 Dwight Butler and Jim Johnson
7/13 Kathryn Myers and Gary Collard
7/20 Shane Jackson and Barb Palmer
7/27 Lynda Klein and Greg Klein
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Contact Karl Kalk
7/6 Gary Collard
7/13 Rob Pritchett
7/20 Craig Maurer
7/27 Marilyn Norton
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New Assisted Hearing Devices Available
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Four assisted listening devices are available at the sound system table in the back of the sanctuary at the beginning of worship. Please see Jim Johnson or John Stanko if you need assistance with these devices.
You can also use your smartphone to access the system. Go to your app store and download the WaveCAST app. Then connect to the sanctuary Wi-Fi:
Network: sound media
Password: Sound127
Once connected to the Wi-Fi, open the WaveCAST app and tap on St. Paul’s to access the worship service. If you need help, please see Jim or John.
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Choose My Church by Pushpay from the App Store.
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Find the "My Church" by Pushpay app in the App store on your phone or computer. It is a free download.
Open the app and search for St. Paul's by typing STPLC APP. Then click on the St. Paul's logo.
To take advantage of all the app’s features, you must create an account. Get notifications and reminders of upcoming events, access our live stream worship and worship bulletins, send prayer requests, see the church calendar, and give electronically.
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St. Paul's
Evangelical Lutheran Church
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We are a community of believers called together to be the Body of Christ for the sake of our families, community and our world. We invite you to join us for worship on Sunday mornings as we celebrate God’s redeeming and freeing grace in Jesus Christ our Lord.
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The Reverend Mark Kreemer officiating.
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Thank you to all who have submitted photos for this newsletter. To see more photos, follow the Facebook pages listed below.
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Cathedral Concerts Facebook Page
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St. Paul's Evangelical Lutheran Church
127 Cherry Rd. NE, Massillon, OH 44646
330 832-7409
Office Hours: T, W, F 9am-1pm
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ELCA Vision: A world experiencing the difference God’s grace and love in Christ make for all people and creation..
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