August 2022

August 2022 Volume LXXII No. 8

Community Fair Service

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Happenings The Membership & Growth Team would like to thank everyone that supported the Spuds and Splits event and helped make it a success. A special thank you to Thrivent and Kwik Trip for their donations. With all of the support, we were able to raise $1,800 for the Roof Fund. Thanks again!

-The Membership & Growth Team

Update from the Call Committee The Call Committee has completed all first round interviews during the month of July and conducting second round interviews during the month of August. We appreciate your thoughts and prayers during this process!

Council Talking Points - New Bylaws- The Church Council will hold 3 open forums for the congregation to attend and ask any questions about the newly updated bylaws. Those dates are: Wednesday, September 14 from 5:15-6:15pm in the Sanctuary, Sunday, September 18 from 9-10am in Bethany Hall , and Sunday, October 9 from 9-10am in Bethany Hall.

- Strategic Planning- The council is working on putting together a short term and long term vision plan for the Church. This includes what types of programs, activities, practices, and goals that FLC wants to see in the future. Stay tuned for more information as it becomes available.

- Peace and Power- Our Peace and Power Ministry is a huge part of our community and congregation. Year to date our funding is down $13,000. If we want to see this ministry continue, we need the financial support of our community and congregation. Please consider donating to Peace and Power.

- New Roof Funding- The Property team has been working with our legal team on a pending insurance claim to get our roof fully replaced. A roof fund has been established as we know we will be responsible for the deductible of $50,000. Please consider donating to this cause. Our hope is to fundraise to help with any funding that may be needed in the future.

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A few words from Joy It’s hard to believe that I have been here for about nine months already. A lot of people have asked me questions such as, “Do you want to be here? Why aren’t you hired now? How long will you stay?” and I usually try to respond with something along the lines of, “The Spirit leads where the Spirit leads.” I know how frustrating and uncertain everything seems, but I hope you know that the call committee is putting in a ton of effort during this process.

They are working tirelessly to find a leader who will help First Lutheran Church move forward in their call to, “Gather, equip, and empower people to joyfully do Christ’s work.” Yes, it is a bit stressful. Yes, it is slow. Yes, it is unpredictable. However, as people of faith we trust and know that God will place the right person here at the right time.

And guess what? No matter what happens, we will be O.K. If it’s one thing I know about God, it’s that God’s plans and visions are always greater than ours. We can’t see the full picture right away, but when we look back it is always beautiful. It is always exactly as the Holy One created it to be. So, as we continue on in this time of waiting, remember to breathe. Remember that the one who breathed life into dust is continuing to breathe life into this church.

Until next time- Joy =) *A lot has changed in nine months-including the size of Boba. The first photo was taken in October (15lbs) and the second photo was taken in July (89lbs)! Time flies when you’re having fun!

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A note from the Parish Health & Wellness Team Over the past two years, we have heard lots about vaccine—particularly the vaccine against COVID-19. There have been concerns expressed about it not being developed and rolled out fast enough, about the safety of the vaccine, how long it will be effective, will it be effective against the latest variant, whether it is safe, etc.

Vaccines are not new to any of us. In fact, the smallpox immunization was introduced by Edward Jenner in the late 18th century. This knowledge led to the development of vaccines effective against several infectious diseases (e.g., typhoid, plague, and cholera.). In the 20th century, additional research allowed for the development of even more vaccines against polio, varicella, influenza, and hepatitis. Remember when every child had chicken pox and the measles? Vaccine research and knowledge has continued into 21st century. (Hsu, 2013) Each time vaccines have been introduced there have been questions, concerns about the safety and efficacy, however, vaccines have improved our overall health since the 18th century.

As we think about the upcoming fall season, which is often filled with new beginnings (e.g. a new school year) and more “indoor events,” it is a great time to think about our overall vaccine status, not only for ourselves but for our loved ones.

If there are questions and/or concerns, remember to seek the advice of your trusted health care professional.

Hsu JL. A brief history of vaccines: smallpox to the present. S D Med. 2013;Spec no:337. PMID: 23444589. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23444589/.

Council Corner with Janice Hammer Tell us a little bit about who makes up your family?

My immediate family is my son Wade and his wife Kerri with Fynn and Clara as grandchildren, my daughter April and her husband Jeremy with Geneveive, Talya and Casey and my son Luke and his wife Rachel with Molly and Maggie. I thank God each day for family and my husband Bill who passed in 2008.

What do you love about First Lutheran Church?

First Lutheran Church has been my home church since 1952. I enjoy the staff and congregation who are a welcoming Christian family . I feel we focus on Christ’s love for all.

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

I am excited for the future of First Lutheran Church working to welcome young families and providing opportunities for all age groups. We have so many resources in our facility and more so in our congregational family. We are welcoming and encouraged to get involved! Bring your ideas!

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Women’s Ministry (FLCW) Caring and Sharing August 2022

August Meeting Wednesday, August 10 5:00pm at Pioneer Park

Chair: Cindy Gandrud Ruth Noren

Program: Bring a treasured item to share (i.e. collectible, quilt, dish, jewelry) Picnic supper provided - freewill offering

507-402-3909 507-391-0053

Workers: Vicki Anderson Cheryl Beavens Marcia Habben

Helen Lovik Cheryl Moran Beth Ordalen Sharlaine Hemmingsen Mary Peterson Donna Henrikson Julia Tonder Judy Kropp Judy Worth Marge LaFrance

September Meeting Saturday, September 10 Program: Trip to Spam Museum, Daisy Blue, and the Art Center for a painting experience.

Sign up in the church office

Cakes: Mary Carstens Audrey Christensen Kristine Erb Cindy Gilbert Patti Hareid Cindy Helgeson

Sue Jorgensen Amy Klimmek Lauren Nelson Judy Nesse Georgia Wentzel Deanna Young

Friends at First will not meet in August

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Prayer Ministry Daily Scripture Verses from the Sharing the Faith Team

Theme for August: Perseverance

God does not promise life will be easy. We all have experienced trials and will do so long as we go on in this life. What God does promise is he will always be with us. We can rely on his strength, comfort, and grace. If we believe and rely on him, we can persevere and as Paul so eloquently says, the prize will await us, the Crown of Righteousness.

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

2 Peter 1:5-7 1 Timothy 6:12 Hebrews 10:36 1 Timothy 4:16 1 Chronicles 16:11 Philippians 3:14 Isaiah 26:3 Philippians 4:7 Psalm 57:7 2 Peter 1:5

11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20

Romans 5:3-5 James 1:12 Psalm 37:7 James 1:2-5 Romans 5:2-4 1 Peter 5:10-11 James 1:12 Psalm 108:1 Psalm 56:4 Luke 11:5-9

21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

Romans 12:12 Psalm 40:1 Ephesians 6:18 Colossians 4:2 2 Chronicles 15:7 1 Corinthians 13:7 2 Thessalonians 1:2-4 Revelation 2:2-3 James 5:11 Hebrews 12:1-3 2 Timothy 4:7-8

FLC Prayer Ministry

Want prayer for yourself or others?

Call Jo, 763-257-9018 or Julia, 373-9594.

Prayers are kept confidential.

Prayer List

Our prayers are requested for healing and wholeness for: Sharon Buley, Aurora Everding, Cora Hall, Bob Herman, Phil Koppelman, Pauline Kohnke Nelson, Pam Stern, Shirley Stundahl, Mollie Tolic, Jenny, and Julie.

Our continued prayers are requested for healing and wholeness for:

Mike & Mary Ann Christian, Jim Hansen, Ann Hanson, Les Harmon, Gregg Hatleli, Nancy Jenson, Gary Laite, Khan Mut, Wanda Soland, Bob, Darlene, and their spouses, families, & caregivers.

23 8am-Quilters-MPR & BH 9:30am-Staff Meeting-P

30 8am-Quilters-MPR & BH 9:30am-Staff Meeting-P

15 9am-Crafters-BH 9am-11:30-The Perfect Gift Shoppe open 1pm-Worship Counters-P 10am-Worship-S 6:30pm-Council Meeting-P 10am-Peace & Power on ABC6 10am-KATE Radio-1450AM

21 8am-Worship w/Comm.-S

22 9am-Crafters-BH 9am-11:30-The Perfect Gift Shoppe open 1pm-Worship Counters-P 10am-Worship w/Comm.-S 10am-Peace & Power on ABC6 10am-KATE Radio-1450AM

28 8am-Worship-S

29 9am-Crafters-BH 9am-11:30-The Perfect Gift Shoppe open 1pm-Worship Counters-P 10am-Worship-S 10am-Peace & Power on ABC6 10am-KATE Radio-1450AM

16 8am-Quilters-MPR & BH 9:30am-Staff Meeting-P

14 8am-Worship-S

2 8am-Quilters-MPR & BH 9:30am-Staff Meeting-P 6pm-WMA Mtg.-BH

Tue

9 7am-8pm-Elections-BH 8am-Quilters-MPR & BH 9:30am-Staff Meeting-P

1 1pm-Worship Counters-P

Mon

8 9am-Crafters-BH 9am-11:30-The Perfect Gift Shoppe open 10:30am-Spirit of Giving-P 10am-Community Fair Service 1pm-Worship Counters-P at Fairgrounds 1pm-History Team-L 10am-Peace & Power on ABC6 10am-KATE Radio-1450AM

7 8am-Worship w/Comm.-S

August

Sun

31 8am-Prayer Group-PR 9:30am-Bible Study-MPR 4pm-Fusion Open House 6pm-Gift Shop Open 6:30pm-Worship 7pm-Confirmation-BH

24 8am-Prayer Group-PR 9:30am-Bible Study-MPR 1pm-Messenger Crew-P 6pm-Gift Shop Open 6:30pm-Worship w/Comm.

7pm-Confirmation Orientation-BH

17 8am-Prayer Group-PR 9:30am-Bible Study-MPR 6pm-Gift Shop Open 6:30pm-Worship

10 8am-Prayer Group-PR 9:30am-Bible Study-MPR 11am-Mutual Ministry-P 3:30pm-Summer Adventures-Off Site 5pm-FLCW Meeting-Pioneer Park 6pm-Gift Shop Open 6:30pm-Worship w/Comm.

3 8am-Prayer Group-PR 8:30am-FLCW Leadership-P 9:30am-Bible Study-MPR 6pm-Gift Shop Open 6:30pm-Worship

Wed

26

19

12

5

Fri

27

20

13

6

Sat

FR=Fusion Room PR= Prayer Room

MPR=Multi-Purpose Room L=Library SL=South Lot

BH=Bethany Hall P=Parlor S=Sanctuary

1pm-Hardanger-MPR 4:45pm-Food Ministry Drive Up-SL

8:30am-Coffee w/Clergy-Caribou

25

1pm-Hardanger-MPR 4:45pm-Food Ministry Drive Up-SL

8:30am-Coffee w/Clergy-Caribou

18

1pm-Hardanger-MPR 4:45pm-Food Ministry Drive Up-SL

8:30am-Coffee w/Clergy-Caribou

11

1pm-Hardanger-MPR 4:45pm-Food Ministry Drive Up-SL

8:30am-Coffee w/Clergy-Caribou

4

Thu

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The Centrality of the Sacraments within the Lutheran Church In “The Small Catechism,” Martin Luther describes the importance of the sacraments. In the Lutheran Church, we acknowledge the sacraments of baptism and communion as being to us from our Lord Jesus. Luther says this about baptism: “It brings about forgiveness of sins, redeems from death and the devil, and gives eternal salvation to all who believe it, as the words and promise of God declare.”

Within the next section, Luther adds these similar words in describing communion: “The words ‘given for you’ and ‘shed for you for the forgiveness of sins’ show us that forgiveness of sin, life, and salvation are given to us in the sacrament…”

The sacraments are one of the central tenets of faith for us as Lutherans. We understand that Jesus Christ is truly present to us within them both. In this way, they are much more than a simple remembrance of Jesus’ actions, rather they are the true joining of Jesus to us each time eat the Lord’s Supper and welcome another in the waters of baptism. Wherever the sacraments are present-Jesus is present.

As I have reflected on this, I have spoken with the church council about the importance of the sacraments within worship. It is our desire that the practice of the sacraments be central to the worship life of our congregation. Within the coming weeks, you will notice that each Sunday at least one sacrament will be present. We will continue our practice of having communion on the first and third Sundays of each month. On the Sundays when we do not have communion, we will begin worship with a thanksgiving for baptism (unless we are having a baptism that day).

The sacraments are a beautiful gift that we have been entrusted with. Lutherans have seen them as being cornerstones to a life of faith for more than 500 years. We hope that this awareness and practice will help to enhance the vibrancy of your worship life.

Blessings in the name of Jesus!

Pastor Roger Fears

Fall Worship Updates!

We are excited to announce that we will be adding two adult education opportunities this fall. There will be an adult education class on Sunday mornings from 9:15am to 10am and another on Wednesday evenings from 7:15-8:00pm. To accommodate this change, Our 10am Sunday worship service will move to 10:30am. The 8am service will remain unchanged.

It is an exciting opportunity to grow together in faith.

Each class will have the opportunity to express what topics they would like to focus on.

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The Special Outreach Cause Offering for the month of August is

Please consider making a donation to Peace & Power. We are in desperate need of funding in order to continue this important ministry Special offering envelopes will be available from the ushers at all church services.

Please make checks payable to FLC.

Broadcast Ministries Year To Date Income $31,045.00 Year To Date Expenses $44,427.64 Year To Date Income vs. Expenses ($13,382.64)

June 2022

Giving

$52,349.59

Expenses

$51,083.96

FIRST LUTHERAN CHURCH OFFICE: Phone (507) 373-6424 E-mail: firstoffice@flcal.org Mailing address: 301 W. Clark St., Albert Lea, MN 56007 Web site–www.flcal.org FIRST LUTHERAN MESSENGER (USPS196-560)

Giving vs.

Expenses

$1,265.63

Year to date Giving vs.

Expense

$8,208.16

PASTORAL STAFF e-mails and emergency telephone numbers:

Pastor Roger Fears - roger@flcal.org (Cell—(320) 297-1251) Periodicals postage paid at

Published by First Lutheran Church (Monthly) Albert Lea, Minnesota 56007 301 West Clark Street, Albert Lea, MN Subscription price $1.00 per year (Postmaster send address correction to 301 W. Clark St, Albert Lea, MN 56007)

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Memorials, Honors, & Special Gifts PEACE & POWER

In Memory of: Mary (Hedum) Burlingames for her birthday LaVonne Christenson given by Julie & Mark Sather given by Jim & Sheila Hansen Jan Doyle given by Paddy Hoium Paul & Rose Gold given by John & Joanne Gold Vernon Jacobson given by Audrey Christensen, Helen Lovik & Merrill Jahnke, Arlis Smith Dennis Jensen given by Clarence & Barb Heavner Ruth Kaduce given by family & friends Vera Mae (Kaushagen) Olson given by family & friends In loving memory of Bill Schulte for his 71st birthday given by his wife Frances Kycek-Schulte Dick Sipple given by Mark & Judy Langrud Jean Stearns given by Rory & Janet Schumaker, Charles Stearns Verliss Wittmer given by Arlis Smith, Audrey Christensen

FOOD MINISTRY

In Honor of: Jim Hansen for their 35th wedding anniversary given by Sheila Hansen Norris Lovik for her 90th Birthday given by Kathryn Carter, Cheryl Moran

Gifts Given by: Lilah Aas

In Honor of: Helen Lovik given by Bev Grotsun Gifts Given by: Arlis Smith, Kiwanis Nooon Club

FOSTER CARE TRAILER Gifts Given by: Donald & Mary Ann Bartz, Roger & Patricia Bekaert

GENERAL FUND In Memory of: Steve Hendrickson given by Wayne & Carol Hedalen Gifts Given by: Dave Syverson Building Account

NAMI

RADIO FUND In Memory of: Armand Johanson given by Jane Maiden Nancy Oakland given by Larry & Janice Lestrud Wayne Willand given by family

Gifts Given by: Janice Jensen, Beverly Trinka, Maye Schultz, LaVonne Emmons, Soonja Cook, John & Barb Cliff, Eugene & Wanda Soland, Jane Morley, Deacon ROOF FUND Douglas Spiotta, Clifford & Jerenne Blaser, Ila Breck, Gifts Given by: Anita Haughland, Larhee Mathison, Donna Hollrah Larry & Janice Lestrud, Arlis Smith

BIRTHDAY BOX

Gifts Given by: Karen Joachim, Diane & Ken Damerow

CARE MINISTRY In Memory of: Marie Jirele given by John & Barb Cliff

YOUTH FUND

Gifts Given by: Brooks & Angie Drescher

Pastoral Records: Baptisms, Weddings, Deaths, Funerals, Memorial Services Baptisms Jack Alrik Mattson—7/24

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The Perfect Gift Shop

The Perfect Gift Shop has many great items for that special person or for yourself!

Hours are Sundays 9:00am to 11:30am and Wednesdays 6:00pm to 7:15pm.

We are looking for a few more volunteers to help in the gift shop.

If you are interested please call the church office.

Photo from Recent Baptism

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

Jack Mattson July 24

Monday - Thursday 8:00AM-5:00PM Tues. & Wed. 5:00-8:00PM If there are meetings scheduled

Regular Worship Schedule Sundays 8:00am & 10:00am - In-person Worship 10:00am - Peace & Power broadcast on KAAL-TV ABC6 10:00am—Live broadcast on KATE Radio 1450 AM Wednesdays 6:30pm - In-person Worship (also live streamed on our Facebook page) Anytime: Access the video of our worship services at www.flcal.org.

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 10:00am - Live broadcast on KATE Radio 1450

[Address label here]

Have you moved? Phone number changed? Please email Kara (kara@flcal.org) your updated info.