The Cactus & The Cross Blog

God is always reforming the church! Join us on Reformation Sunday, October 25, at 11:00 am for a special youth-led worship service. Our youth will lead the worship and bring the message as we celebrate God’s ongoing work of renewing and reforming the church. Come worship with us, hear what our young people have to share, and open your heart to the transforming work of the Holy Spirit. Come and allow the Holy Spirit to reform you!

Please join us on Saturday, October 24, at 5:00 pm in the Worship Center as we celebrate the installation of Deacon Wendy as our Deacon for Outreach Coordination! This special service marks an exciting new chapter in St. John’s ministry and our commitment to reaching out and serving our community. Come celebrate with us and pray for God’s blessing, guidance, and wisdom as Deacon Wendy begins this new role. A light meal will follow the service, providing an opportunity to cont

How would you respond if an emergency occurred during worship? Do you know how to exit the building safely and where to go? On the weekend of October 17–18, St. John’s will hold emergency evacuation drills at the conclusion of all services. This will allow everyone to practice our evacuation procedures and become familiar with the safe ways to leave the building. Your participation is crucial! The more people who practice, the better prepared we will be in the event of a real

Ladies, set aside your weekend for a calming and rejuvenating escape in the refreshing pines of Prescott! Our Women’s Fall Retreat is the ideal chance to take a break from the daily grind and come together to celebrate God’s love. The weekend will feature Bible study, fellowship, hiking, worship, delicious food, activities, games, and ample time to relax and enjoy each other’s company. All women are invited! The cost is a reasonable $84, which includes a two-night stay and me

What does “Outreach” entail, and how can it assist St. John’s in achieving its vision and objectives? Deacon Wendy will guide us in a crucial discussion about the duties of a Deacon for Outreach Coordination and the potential impact of this ministry on our congregation and community. Join Deacon Wendy as she shares her vision for Outreach, examines what outreach entails within a congregation, and considers how this ministry aligns with St. John’s Vision and Goals. Come to lea

Please join us in celebrating Wendy Schulz as she is ordained to Word and Service on Saturday, October 3, at 10 am at Peace Lutheran Church, 18265 North 89th Avenue, Peoria. This is a momentous occasion as we recognize Wendy’s call to ministry and give thanks to God for her talents and dedicated service. Everyone is welcome to attend this joyous worship service. A reception will follow the ordination service. We hope you’ll join us as we come together to celebrate Wendy and t

What would you do if an emergency happened during worship? Would you know how to safely get out of the building and where to go? The weekend of October 17–18, St. John’s will be conducting emergency evacuation drills at the end of all services. This will give everyone an opportunity to practice our evacuation procedures and become familiar with how we can safely exit the building. Your participation is important! The more people who practice, the better prepared we will be if

Ladies, reserve your weekend for a soothing and refreshing getaway in the cool pines of Prescott! Our Women’s Fall Retreat offers the perfect opportunity to step away from the daily hustle and gather to celebrate God’s love. The weekend will include Bible study, fellowship, hiking, worship, delicious food, activities, games, and plenty of time to relax and enjoy each other’s company. All women are welcome! The cost is an affordable $84, covering a two-night stay and meals. Sc

What does “Outreach” mean, and how can it help St. John’s live out its vision and goals? Deacon Wendy will lead us in an important conversation about the role of a Deacon for Outreach Coordination and what this ministry could mean for our congregation and our community. Join Deacon Wendy as she presents her vision for Outreach, explores what outreach looks like in the life of a congregation, and considers how this ministry can connect with St. John’s Vision and Goals. Come le

A lively church community flourishes through shared faith, sincere love, and a united purpose. Join us every Sunday at 9:45 am for a time of learning, connection, and spiritual renewal, no matter where you are on your faith journey. Whether you're just starting to explore following Christ or have been on this spiritual path for many years, you'll find a welcoming home here. ✝️ FROG – Fully Rely on God (Children’s Ministry) 📍 Room 9 Every week, our children gather for FROG –