October 2022

Grandparent Camp Sunday, October 16 New Pavilion at Edgewater Park (by the west entrance of the park)

1:30-4:30pm

Sign up in the church office Interested in helping out? Please call Janice Hammer 383 9957

The congregational council is looking for your input in preparing a vision for our church. In October you will be receiving a survey during worship (it will also be mailed out with the messenger) with 5 questions. Please take a bit of time to fill out this important survey. We need you all to be a part of the church's vision!

Our Annual Polka Service and lunch are fast approaching. We will once again need helpers to assist the band, kitchen and dining room helpers, set-up and clean-up helpers, and volunteers to sell tickets throughout October on Sundays between services and Wednesdays before worship.

A sign-up sheet will be located at the Welcome Center beginning September 25th. If you would like to help, it would be much appreciated. Thank you in advance for your service! The Polka Team

A few words from Pastor Joy

Dear FLC

I am beyond excited to be your new (ish) pastor! What an exciting time for both you and me.

Throughout this time of discernment I’ve been dwelling on the phrase, “the Gospel is not a one time event” when observing and dreaming about where this church can go. I think that too often churches are afraid to step into all that God has planned for them. It can be so easy to remain stagnant to be comfortable with the way that things are because they are familiar and safe. Now, don’t get me wrong, I have a deep respect and an understanding for traditions, especially in the church. Traditions can give us a solid foundation as we move into the future. However, in order for us to grow, change is going to be inevitable. It might seem scary or hard at first, but if you take a look around you this congregation has already been growing and changing long before Pastor Roger and I ever arrived. Not only do you now have two new pastors, you’ve adopted a new values statement, a new pastoral structure, a new food ministry, new youth programming, even the addition of Easton’s place in the sanctuary! You see? Change isn’t actually that scary at all.

The Gospel is not a one time event because the Spirit is always moving and encouraging us to explore the endless possibilities of how we can better love God and our neighbor. Throughout his ministry, Jesus shows us the power of what the Gospel can do; how the goodness of God’s love can change people's hearts and lives for the better. If we truly believe that God can make all things new, then we cannot be afraid to listen to where the Spirit is guiding us. We must be willing to mold ourselves to God’s Word and mission for this church.

I like to think of myself like God’s bright pink playdough (I know that’s a bit unconventional, but clay is such a boring color). Throughout my life God has molded and formed me into a new and healthier person to answer this call of ministry. My job is to listen, be patient, and trust that God has shaped and placed me exactly where I am supposed to be. Each “shape” that God has molded me into has taught me a new lesson, and when the time is right, God will reshape me again...and again...and again!

So, know that I am looking forward to how God will mold us together in our ministry. We have an incredible staff and a great congregation and we can trust that the Creator of Life will continue to make all things new.

Thanks be to God. Amen.

A note from the Parish Health & Wellness Team

In the past couple of years, we have heard much about the evolving Covid vaccine, but it is important not to forget about the continued need for the seasonal flu vaccine. Influenza (flu) is a contagious respiratory disease caused by influenza viruses that is more dangerous than the common cold.

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) (n.d.) states: “The best way to reduce your risk from seasonal flu and its potentially serious complications is to get vaccinated every year.” Flu vaccines are available (or soon will be) at the local pharmacies and clinics.

The CDC (n.d.) also reminds us that everyone six months and older should get the flu vaccine (shot) every year ideally by the end of October. Flu shots are designed to keep recipients from getting the flu and/or reducing the severity of illness. Flu vaccines are extremely important for the following populations:

• Individuals who have chronic health conditions.

• Women who are pregnant (the vaccine protects not only the mother but the baby for several months after birth.

• Children (A 2020 study) showed that the flu vaccine could reduce children’s risk of severe life threatening influenza by 75%.

• Individuals who engage with children or individuals who are older or who have chronic health conditions.

In other words, everyone fits into one of these populations and would benefit from the flu vaccine. As always, if you have concerns or questions about if the vaccine is appropriate for you, it is important to contact your medical provider.

Enjoy the upcoming fall season and stay healthy!

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (n.d.). Influenza https://www.cdc.gov/flu/prevent/vaccine benefits.htm

Council Corner with Dave Van Fossen

Tell us a little bit about who makes up your family.

My wife Brenda, our son Matthew and his wife McKenna, who live in Shakopee, our cat Joey and grand puppy Mowgli.

What do you love about First Lutheran Church?

We moved to Albert Lea in 1980. After visiting several churches, we found First Lutheran to be open and welcoming and joined in 1986. Our son Matthew was baptized here in 1990. It has become our church home and family. I feel our church continues to extend this fellowship to new members in search of their church home.

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

I am excited to have Pastor Joy now joining Pastor Roger in our shared ministry team. We have a great pastoral and support staff to continue to grow our congregational family.

Caring and Sharing October 2022

Chair: Mary Carstens 507 383 8866 Sandy Johnson 507 383 8868

Workers:

Deb Flattum

Gladys Heys

Susan Jensen Cheryl Moran Jan Paske

Mary Jane Pierson

Marilyn Sasser

Bonnie Schneider Terri Stadheim Phyllis Ulland

Holidays

Cakes:

Jody Bakken Michelle Baseman Kathy Carter Nina Cole Nancy Kyllo Debbie Pilgrim

Cathy Malakowsky

Shirley Stundahl

Brenda Van Fossen

Susan Van Ryswyk Sue Wittmer

Program for the Reformation Luncheon

The 3 CDs have been singing together and loving it for 13 years. “CDs” stand for “Choir Directors” as each of them has been a choir director. Julie Quamme is from Rake, IA, and directed the choirs at Zion Lutheran for many years. Audrey Kiihn is from Bricelyn, MN, and also directed her church choir at Bricelyn Lutheran. Linda Hill is from Kiester, MN, and taught music for 33 years. They have all now retired from that phase of their lives and have entered the next journey of sharing their love of music. They LOVE to sing together.

Tuesday,

Lasagna,

Page

Daily Scripture Verses from the Sharing the Faith Team Theme for October: Faith

1 Ephesians 3:16 17

2 Mark 11:24

3 Hebrews 11:1

4 Romans 15:13

5 James 1:6

6 Hebrews 11:6

7 John 11:40

8 James 1:3

9 1 Peter 1:8 9

10 John 11:25 26

Prayer Ministry

11 Matthew 21:22

12 Mark 10:52

13 John 6:35

14 1 Corinthians 16:13

15 Romans 10:10

16 Hebrews 11:11

17 Romans 1:17

18 Galatians 3:26 27

19 John 3:16

20 Matthew 17:20

FLC Prayer Ministry

21 Acts 16:31

22 1 John 5:13

23 Romans 10:17

24 1 Timothy 6:12

25 John 6:29

26 Ephesians 2:8 9

27 Galatians 2:20

28 Mark 11:23

29 Romans 10:9

30 1 John 5:5

31 Romans 5:1

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

Prayer List

Ourprayersarerequestedforhealingandwholenessfor: Barb Callahan, Donna Falksen, Joyce Fredin, Cora Hall, Sharon Wakefield, Mollie Tolic, Jenny, John, Julie, Pam and Sheila.

Ourcontinuedprayersarerequestedforhealingandwholenessfor: Sharon Buley, Mike & Mary Ann Christian, Les Harmon, Gregg Hatleli, Bob Herman, Nancy Jenson, Phil Koppelman, Gary Laite, Khan Mut, Pauline Kohnke Nelson, Cleo Ress, and their spouses, families, and caregivers.

6 Congratulations to our students that were confirmed on Sunday September 25 at the 10:30am service. The students who affirmed their baptism are: Jayda Moyer, Elisa Brink, Zoie Jensen, Aurora Everding, Clara Chapek, Maddee Anderson, Aryah Hansen, Jenna Balfe, Jacob Miller, Max Possehl, Ledger Stadheim, Nicholas Belshan, Nickolas Doppelhammer, & Claire Ladlie.

8 7am

Lutheran World Relief Ingathering South Lot

Fri

Thu

7

6 8:30am Coffee w/ClergyCaribou 1pmHardangerMPR 4:45pmFood Ministry Drive UpSL

14 15

13 8:30am Coffee w/Clergy Caribou 1pm Hardanger MPR 4:45pm Food Ministry Drive Up SL

21 22

20 8:30am Coffee w/Clergy Caribou 1pm Hardanger MPR 4:45pmFood Ministry Drive UpSL

28 29 4pm - Community Trunk or TreatCentral Park

27 8:30am Coffee w/Clergy Caribou 1pm Hardanger MPR 4:45pm Food Ministry Drive Up SL

Wed

5

Tue

Mon

Sun

2

12

5:15pm

8am Prayer Group PR 9:30am Bible Study MPR 11am Reformation Lunch BH 11am Mutual Ministry P 3:30pm Fusion BH, SSR,MPR 5pm Choir Rehearsal CR

Gift Shop Open 5:30pm Evening Meal BH 6:30pm Worship w/Comm. 6:30pm Confirmation BH 7:15pm Adult Education Class 8am Prayer Group PR 8:30am FLCW Leadership P 9:30am Bible Study MPR 3:30pm Fusion BH, SSR,MPR 5pm Choir Rehearsal CR

3 9am Crafters BH 1pm Worship Counters P 4 8am Quilters MPR & BH 9:30am Staff Meeting P 5pm Bell Choir BL

8am Worship w/Comm. S 9am 10:30 The Perfect Gift Shoppe open 9:15am Adult Education BH

10am Peace & Power on ABC6

10am KATE Radio 1450AM 10:30am Worship w/Comm. S

11 8amQuiltersMPR & BH 9:30amStaff MeetingP 1pmMem. & GrowthP 5pmBell ChoirBL 5:30pmWorship & M.BH

Sat 16 8am Worship w/Comm. S 9am 10:30

19 8am Prayer Group PR 9:30am Bible Study MPR 5:15pm Gift Shop Open 6:30pmWorship

18 8am Quilters MPR & BH 9:30am Staff Meeting P 11:30am Friend @ First BH 5pm Bell Choir BL

5:15pm Gift Shop Open 5:30pm Evening Meal BH 6:30pm Worship w/Comm. 6:30pm Confirmation BH 7:15pm Adult Education Class

5:15pm Gift Shop Open 5:30pm Evening Meal BH 6:30pm Worship 6:30pm Confirmation BH 7:15pm Adult Education Class 8am Lefse Bake BH 8am Prayer Group PR 9:30am Bible Study MPR 1pm Messenger Crew P 3:30pm Fusion BH, SSR,MPR 5pm Choir Rehearsal CR

26

10 9amCraftersBH 1pm Worship Counters P 1pm History Team L

BH=Bethany Hall P=Parlor S=Sanctuary MPR=MultiPurpose Room L=Library CRChoir Room FR=Fusion Room PR= Prayer Room BL=Bell Loft

9 8amWorshipS 9am 10:30

The Perfect Gift Shoppe open 9:15am New Bylaw Open Forum S 10am Peace & Power on ABC6 10am KATE Radio 1450AM 10:30am Worship S

17 9am Crafters BH 1pm Worship Counters P 6:30pmCouncilMPR

The Perfect Gift Shoppe open 9:15am Adult Education BH 10am Peace & Power on ABC6 10am KATE Radio 1450AM 10:30am Worship w/Comm. S 1:30pm GrandparentCamp

24 8amLefse BakeBH 1pmWorship CountersP 25 8amLefse BakeBH 9:30amStaff MeetingP 5pmBell ChoirBL

23 8amWorshipS 9am 10:30 The Perfect Gift Shoppe open 9:15am Adult Education BH 10am Peace & Power on ABC6 10am KATE Radio 1450AM 10:30am Worship S

31 Reformation Day 9am Crafters BH 1pm Worship Counters P

30 Reformation Sunday 8am Worship S 8am TTT Waffle Breakfast BH 9am 10:30 The Perfect Gift Shoppe open 9:15am Adult Education BH 10am Peace & Power on ABC6 10am KATE Radio 1450AM 10:30am Worship S

The Perfect Gift Shop

Here is a small sampling of the many great fall items available in the gift shop.

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

To everyone who helped make my ordination happen, thank you!! The day was absolutely gorgeous. I am beyond grateful for all of the effort that was put in for the celebration. My family and friends were truly blown away by the hospitality that FLC demonstrated towards them, and they all felt extremely cared about. Thank you for your beautiful cards, gifts, time, and energy. I'll see you around!

Blessings of Peace! Pastor Joy

effort at

others in our community when tragedy or heartbreak hits. These funds simply go to BLESS someone or a family in our community that is going

time. Blessing them with a movie and dinner, gas to get to doctor

of

to cheer someone up. The intent of this outreach is to bring hope to those that may have none at this time in their lives, to come along side them as their church family and BLESS them! Your financial donation will make a difference!

$1.00

Clark St, Albert Lea, MN 56007)

Memorials, Honors, & Special Gifts

PEACE & POWER

In Memory of:

Sharon Bowen given by Jeanne Birch

Bonnie Braund given by Helen Lovik, Merrill Jahnke

Jane Deckard given by Laverne & Strand

Bernice Ellingson given Alan & Bonnie Bakken

Larry Lenz brother of Lonnie Lenz given by Sharon Wakefield

Steven Olson given by Jeanne Birch

Stefan Oftedahl given by Mary Peterson

Darlene Reed given by Paddy Hoium

Dorothy Stillings given by Selma Engebretson

James “Butchie” VanRiper given by family & friends

Richard Wasmoen given by wife Lois Wasmoen

Jan Wilder given by Barbara Butler

In Honor of:

Lorraine Bakken given by Alan & Bonnie Bakken

Pastor Joy’s Ordination given by Bev Grotsun, LaVerne & Shirley Strand, Bonnie Schneider, Bonnie Trampel

Gifts Given by: Wayne & Jackie Sletten, Residents of Senior Tower, Donald & Mary Ann Bartz, Karen Brand, Elaine Hellickson, Harriet Wangen, Kevin & Martha Kenne, Curtis Jensen, John & Barb Cliff, Larhee Mathison, Ila Breck, Roger & Corinne Shirk, Deacon Douglas

Spiotta, LaVonne Emmons, Sonja Cook, Beth Narveson, Patricia Loveland, Patricia Sites, Clifford & Jenne Blaser, Trainor Farms Inc, Arlis Smith

FOOD FOR BACKPACKS

In Memory of: Darlene Reed given by John & Barb Cliff

FOOD MINISTRY

Gifts Given by: Arlis Smith

GENERAL FUND Gifts Given by: Sara Cogar, Dave Syverson Building Account

ROOF FUND Gifts Given by: Jane Maiden, Arlis Smith

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

Waffles

Bethany Hall

The TTT Society is an organization of women whose focus is to provide an educational camping experience for girls who might not otherwise have the opportunity.

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

Congregational Vision Survey

Please help us build the vision and future of FLC by completing this survey. You can drop it off in the polka dotted box or mail it to church.

How would you like to grow in your faith?

What would you like to see happen to FLC in the next 5 years? (Programs, worship, Building)

What is our church all about? (Memories, traditions, Values, attributes)

What would you like to offer the next generation of FLC?

We live in a quickly changing world, how can FLC adapt to serve people in that world?

Please place your responses in the polka dotted box in the gathering space. Turn in by October 31, 2022

Regular Worship Schedule

Sundays

8:00am

10:00am

First Lutheran

Albert

Wednesdays

Sunday

Instagram

Vimeo