February 2023

Happenings

New Church Picture Directory

It is time for a new church directory! Our last one was done eight years ago. There is no cost to the church or you. Everyone who gets their picture taken will also get a free 8x10 portrait. Pictures will be taken during the first 2 weeks of May. Sign ups and more information will be coming soon.

A message from our Offering Envelope Company

Greetings from The Church-Budget Envelope and Mailing Company,

Some of you may be aware of delays in the offering envelope mailings over the past couple months. Due to supply chain and the inability to add employees at the rate necessary has created a slow draw on production and shipping. Recently, both of those issues have been resolved. However, the “catchup” would jeopardize long term delivery.

In order to get back to expected levels of timely deliveries, we are forced to suspend the production of the remaining supply of your January envelopes. The offering envelopes will resume and be delivered by the first Sunday in March. Quarterly supply will restart in April.

Never in our company's history have we had to skip scheduled mailings and we are doing all we can to make sure this never happens again. We deeply apologize for this necessary course of action and the inconvenience this has caused you and your church family. We appreciate your understanding.

Council Talking Points

• May 28th - September 10th the Worship schedule will be one service on Sundays at 10am and one service on Wednesdays at 6:30pm.

• Congregation Elections are coming up in May. If you are interested in serving in a leadership role on council please contact Larry Larson, Nominating Committee Chair, or Kara Heinemann, Church Administrator.

A few words from Pastor Joy

Dear First Lutheran Church-

What a time to be alive! 2023 has already been filled with baptisms, funerals, worship planning and more! Just to repeat what Pastor Roger said in the last letter- we do not know what is coming our way this year, but we are excited for it.

This past month I’ve been thinking a lot about the power of change. Change can be hard, uncomfortable, and scary, but it is necessary in order for us to move forward. It’s fair to say that this church is no stranger to change! Not only have you called two new pastors (one of them being the first ordained female here in 103 years) and hired new staff, you also have updated your constitution, started a few new outreach ministries, and are even working on updating the building so that it is safe and accessible for all.

In our current Bible study on Sunday mornings we are looking at sermons written by Martin Luther King, Jr. and how he used scripture to fight for change. King was someone who knew that things could not stay the way they were and his faith guided him in pursuing justice for all people. In one of his sermons titled “Our God is Able”, King shares the doubts that he had while doing his work. After receiving many death threats and letters King admits that he was overcome with fear and late one night went to God in prayer saying that he had nothing left to give. King writes about feeling the presence of the Spirit with him and through it was reminded that God was always at his side. He writes, “Only God is able. It is faith in him that we must rediscover. With this faith we can transform bleak and desolate valleys into sunlit paths of joy and bring new light into the dark caverns of pessimism Come what may, God is able”, and he was given the strength to continue in his work.

As we continue in 2023, I hope that FLC will remember that by rediscovering our faith in God anything is possible. So, as new changes continue to come our way, let us continue to be transformed by the wisdom of the Spirit and enter into sunlit paths of joy together. Let us bring new light into the dark caverns of pessimism, and let us always remember that Only God is able!

Thanks be to God, Amen!

Sunday Morning Adult Education

Our Sunday morning adult education class is looking at Martin Luther King's sermons and how he used scripture to promote racial justice and equality for all. If you have any questions about this study please contact Pastor Joy at joy@flcal.org. The group meets Sunday mornings at 9:15am in the Parlor.

Council Corner with Fran Heilman

Tell us a little bit about who makes up your family. My family is made up of husband Jason and myself. We have no children but have three fur children (cats). Jason has family over by Glenville and Rose Creek.

What do you love about First Lutheran Church?

I love that we are a welcoming church. I really enjoy all the different worship styles and the small groups that we have going on. I love our beautiful sanctuary and how wonderful all the music sounds. Pastoral staff and building staff are part of the many things that I love about FLC.

What is one thing you are excited for First Lutheran Church’s future?

I am excited that we are starting to get a Senior High school program up and running. I would love to have more parents and students involved with the youth group, but I am just pleased that we have 6 students consistently attending.

Staff Spotlight with Paul Cerny

Job Title

Building & Grounds

Brief overview of your position?

I work closely with fellow staff member Mike to oversee all aspects of maintaining our building and property.

What’s something about you (a fun fact) that not many people know?

I got married for the first time when I was 53.

What’s the last book you read or are currently reading? My motorcycle manual.

What is your favorite hobby?

Riding my Indian Motorcycle

What’s the first concert you ever attended? Night Ranger

What’s the next place on your travel bucket list?

Alaska

A note from the Parish Health & Wellness Team

Thanks to the First Lutheran Church Women, we now have an AED to help in the case of an emergency. You will notice that this is located in the Gathering space by the welcome center. We are in the process of setting up a CPR/AED training with the Red Cross. If you do need to use the AED prior to the training, it will give you step by step directions for proper use.

Women’s Ministry (FLCW)

February Meeting

Wednesday, February 8

12:00pm

Bethany Hall

Program:Valentine Get-Together

Light Lunch

bring an hors d’oeuvres to share

Readings & Activities: Sheri Nicol

March Meeting

Wednesday, March 8th

1:00pm

Bethany Hall

Program: Starting a small business with Angie Moller of Homestead Boutique

Caring and Sharing February 2023

Chair: Lou Jean Nelson 763-333-4697 Kathy Oothoudt 507-383-3972

Workers:

Vergie Asper

Becky Boelter

Janice Hamer

Eunice Hatleli

Paula Juveland

Nancy Kyllo

Ginny Thompson

Janice Tukua

Cakes: Amy Belshan

Carol Carr

Tiffney Chapek

Barb Collins

Katie Davis

Brooke Jacobson

Paula Juveland

Jennifer Rhiner

Sue Runden

Brenda VanFossen

Join Altar Guild. We are looking for new members. Please come to the meeting or call Debbie Pilgrim 377-1544.

Friends at First will not meet in February or March

We hope you see you at the Lent Luncheons!

Daily ScriptureVerses from the Sharing the Faith Team Prayer Ministry

1. Psalm 143:8

2. 1 John 4:16

3. Ephesians 4:2

4. 1 Peter 4:8

5. John 15:12

6. 1 Corinthians 13:2

7. Romans 12:10

8. 1 John 4:12

9. Song of Solomon 8:6

10. 1 John 3:1

11. 1 Thessalonians 3:12

12. 1 John 4:8

13. Mark 12:30

14. 1 Corinthians 13:4-5

15. Galatians 5:22-23

16. Matthew 5:44

17. 1 John 4:10

18. Ephesians 5:2

19. 1 John 3:11

20. Hebrews 13:1-2

FLC Prayer Ministry

21. 1 John 4:11

22. 1 John 4:7

23. Isaiah 54:10

24. John 13:35

25. Romans 5:5

26. Galatians 5:14

27. 1 Corinthians 16:14

28. 2 Corinthians 13:14

Want prayer for yourself or others? Call Jo, 763-257-9018 or Julia, 373-9594. Prayers are kept confidential.

Theme for February: LOVE Prayer List

Ourprayersarerequestedforhealingandwholenessfor: Barb Callahan, Joyce Fredin, Margaret Hagen, Cora Hall, Laurie Lenz, Pauline Kohnke Nelson, Mollie Tolic, Mae Twito, John, Julie, and Pam.

Ourcontinuedprayersarerequestedforhealingandwholenessfor: Sharon Buley, Mike & Mary Ann Christian, Jaya Fever, James Hansen, Les Harmon, Gregg Hatleli, Bob Herman, Russ Heys, Nancy Jenson, Phil Koppelman, Gary Laite, Khan Mut, Wanda Soland, Pam Stern, Jenny, Sheila, and their spouses, families, and caregivers.

All FLC graduating seniors are welcome to apply for a number of Scholarships offered through the church. Applications will be mailed out by the beginning of February. If you do not receive the packet or would like more information about the scholarships available, please contact the church office at 373-6424

The Perfect Gift Shop

The purchases you make at the Gift Shop go to support local missions. Recently a check for $1,000 was given to the Care Ministry at First Lutheran Church

Hours are Sundays 9:00am to 10:30am and Wednesdays 5:15pm to 7:15pm.

First Communion Class

February 15 4:30pm

All families with a 5th Grader should have received a letter with information about the class and the worship service. If you did not receive the letter please contact the church office 373-6424

Memorials, Honors, & Special Gifts

PEACE & POWER

In Memory of:

LaVonne (Bonnie) Bonnerup given by Richard & Mary Swanson

Duane Peterson for His January 9thBirthday given by Betty Peterson

Luan Sallee, Mavis Nelson, Mavis

Westergaard, Wendy Nelson, Berneta Hansen, Mary Strehlow, Lola Johsnsen, Marcia Peterson given by Trinity Lutheran Church Women

Bev Torgerson given by Family & Friends, Deloris Becker, Faye Learn, Julia Tonder, Helen

Lovik, The Hardanger Group

Joy White given by Family & Friends

Gene & Darlene Enge, Marie Engen, Troy

Hillman, Gloria Bolhuis given by Mary Martha

Circle First Lutheran Church Glenville

Allan Scott & Peter Boe given by Donald & Jen

Grovdahl

Rhoda Knudson given by Family & Friends,

Laverne & Shirley Strand

Paul Hill given by Tom & Karen Hovde

Gifts Given By:

James Osmonson, LaVonne Emmon Sonja Cook, Grand Meadow WELCA, Mark & Sharon Christian, Doris Schultz, Oakland Lutheran Church, Shirley Kraushaar, Dorinda Leutink, Patricia Sites, Charles & Mary Sukup, Mr. & Mrs. Raymond

Kyllo, Kevin & Martha Kenne, Marilee Waalkens, Roger & Beverly Dant, Paul & Paulette Manemann, Elton & Jean Sheets, Ila Breck, Gail Rayman, Larhee Matison, Deacon Douglas Spiotta, Shirley

Ausenhus

BLESSING PROJECT

Gifts Given By: Rhodette Groe

FOOD MINISTRY

Gifts Given By: JoAnn Palmer

HAPPINESS IS A BLANKET

Gift Given By: Catherine Carter

Christmas Poinsettias & World Hunger Memorials & Honors

PoinsettiaGiveninMemoryof :

Harold & Dawn Runden given by Mary Runden

Donald & Lorraine Levisen and LeRoy & Lorraine Gilbertson given by Bob & Darlene Levisen

Parents Lars & Clara Hove and Glen & Doris Hammer given by Janice Hammer

Loved Ones given by the Fligge Family

Delores Schilling given by Doug & Susan Olson

Husband Wallace Lovik given Helen Lovik

Paul Overgaard given by Jan Overgaard

Paul Buley given by John & Jan Buley

Art & Sharon Lombard given by their Loving Family

Mabel Johnson given by her Loving Family

Thank you, God, for our so loved church family and the shepherds and the staff that leads us given by the Wayne Sletten Family

Our parents Walt & Ev Abraham and Mel & Alice Sletten and our precious daugher Wendy Lyn given by Wayne & Jackie Sletten and Greg Abraham.

PoinsettiaGiveninHonorof:

Our precious shuts ins and the joy and blessings they bring given by the Wayne Sletten Family

In thankfulness to God for our precious children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren Mark, Paul, Emma and Noah; Jill Marie& Steve, Paul, Samantha, Wes and Jack, Amelia Sydne, Greta & Andera; Daniel& Jennifer, Jacob, Anders and Macallan given by Wayne & Jackie Sletten

Great Grandchildren Luna, Leif, Kolten, Karter & Brooks given by Larry & Janice Lestrud

WorldHungerGiftGiveninMemoryof:

Parents Arnie & Eunice Maiden & Aunt Dolores Fjeldberg given by Jane Maiden

Husband Harold Tasker and Son Tom Tasker given by Martha Tasker

Loved Ones by Helen Lovik

Norman & Marcine Drescher given by Family

Parents given Jim & Jane

Son Michael, parents and loved ones given by Don & Judy Kropp

Parents Floyd & Josie Schenk and Lloyd & Marlys

Lestrud given by Larry & Janice Lestrud

WorldHungerGiftGiveninHonorof:

Children & Grandchildren given by Bill & Ann Satre

My Family by Janice Hammer

WorldHungerGiftGivenby:

Wayne & Jackie Sletten

Music Notes

Hello First Lutheran! I am your new music coordinator, Rebekah Sousa, but most people call me Bekah. I use the term “new” loosely as I have actually been working with First Lutheran for many years, but assumed new duties as full-time music coordinator on January first of 2023. I am so happy to be serving you in this new capacity. I am a PK (preacher’s kid) who has served many churches in many roles since my early teens, most often as organist and choir director, but also as youth director, on church council, as Sunday School teacher and superintendent, in women’s organizations, on building committees, etc. Up until this year, I have generally been employed as a hospital/clinic worker, initially for over 30 years doing medical transcription, then for the last 7 years with registration and patient services, with church music being secondary. I am thrilled to have a new focus in 2023, providing musical accompaniment for worship, selecting music for services, gathering the choir back together and working with the young folks at Fusion.

I am married, and my husband James works at Wuerflein Chevrolet as a technician. I have 3 children, Abigail (who lives with her husband Chris and son Quinn in Lexington, KY), and twin sons Caleb (who lives in Albert Lea with his wife Tanieka and has children Blaine, Freya, O’Ryan and Luna-Mae) and Joshuah (who lives in Alden with his wife Brittany, son Brexton. They are expecting a new little girl in April). My parents Rev. Willis J. Forsyth of Syracuse, NY, and Barbara Clark Forsyth of Alden, MN, have gone to be with their Lord, as well as my brother David, but I have two sisters, Deborah and Paula, who both live in Albuquerque, NM, with nephews and nieces in California and New Mexico.

I look forward to God’s work ahead here at First Lutheran and my first order of business is getting choir started again. We are going to try Tuesday evening practices at 6:15 pm following bell choir rehearsals beginning January 24th. Please come and join us if you love to “make a joyful noise” to the Lord!

Pastoral Records: Baptisms, Weddings, Deaths, Funerals, Memorial Services

Weddings

Jenny Hueter & Josh Martin 1/8

Baptisms

Dieter Diaz 1/8

Ellie Diaz 1/8

Funerals

Rhoda Knudson 1/6

Marilyn Peters 1/12

Harold “Billy” Christenson 1/16

Office

Monday Thursday 9:00AM-3:00PM

FRIDAY & SATURDAY CLOSED

Sunday Building Hours—7AM-12 noon

[Other times by special arrangement] s

These hours allow the office staff to be in the office and have time to work on special projects and events with fewer distractions. If you need to come in outside of normal office hours, please call for an appointment.

Building

Monday - Thursday 8:00AM-5:00PM

Tues. & Wed. 5:00-8:00PM

If there are meetings scheduled

Regular Worship Schedule

Sundays

8:00am & 10:30am - In-person Worship and live streamed on our Facebook page

10:00am - Peace & Power broadcast on KAAL-TV ABC6

10:30am - Live broadcast on KATE Radio 1450 AM

Wednesdays

6:30pm - In-person Worship and live streamed on our Facebook page

Anytime: Access the video of our worship services at www.flcal.org

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THE MISSION OF FIRST LUTHERAN CHURCH IS TO GATHER, EQUIP, AND EMPOWER PEOPLE TO JOYFULLY DO CHRIST’S WORK.

First Lutheran Church 301 W Clark St. Albert Lea, MN 56007

Periodicals Postage Paid at Albert Lea, MN 56007

Sunday Worship Broadcasts

10:00am - Peace & Power on ABC 6

10:30am - Live broadcast on KATE Radio 1450

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