November 2017

First Lutheran Church Albert Lea, MN www.flcal.org

N OV EM B E R OCTOBER 26, 2017

V OLUME LXVII + N O .11

Saturday, November 18, 2017

First Lutheran Church + F.L.C. + For the Love of Christ

INSIDE ISSUE:

8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

GIFT BASKET

SILENT AUCTION What: Themed gift baskets for SILENT AUCTION

When: During Holidays

New– Basket Silent Auction

Ahead on Nov. 18, 2017

Cash Cards Available

Why: To raise funds

Coffee 8:30 am to 10:00 am Lunch 11:00 am to 12:30 pm Served in Bethany Hall

for local and global missions

How: Groups or indi-

viduals create gift baskets by purchasing new items and/or gift cards

THIS

Pastor John’s Letter

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What’s Happening

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Centennial

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Sharing Our Gifts

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November Calendar

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Employee Spotlight

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Memorials & Gifts

12-13

FLC Youth Announcements

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Join Us Thanksgiving Eve Wednesday, November 22, 2017 Worship Service at 6:30 pm The Church Building & Office will be closed after Worship and all day Thursday and Friday, November 23 & 24

The Advent Adventure and Creche Walk Starting Wednesday November 29, 2017 See page 15.

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Rejoice in the Lord!

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Dear Friends in Christ, Following our observance of the 500th anniversary of the Reformation, as I reflect on the events and people in 16th century Europe, one thing stands out. Many of the leaders, like Martin Luther and his cohorts, as well as the other reformers, like Zwingli, Calvin, and Hus, were people of amazing courage. The fires of the Protestant Reformation that began to burn in Europe five centuries ago led to changes in the church, government, society and culture— changes from which we still benefit today. When Martin Luther posted his list of 95 Theses for discussion on October 31, 1517, it was a catalytic point in this movement. Luther and the other Reformers displayed remarkable courage in the face of entrenched rulers of church and state who selfishly and ruthlessly opposed the changes coming forth. They threatened the very lives of Luther and others who worked to reform church and society. Some reformers were murdered or burned at the stake.

Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong.

Do everything in love. (I Corinthians 16:13-14) So, as beneficiaries of the Reformation, what is our calling today in our lives, families and culture? It is to live with courage continuing to share the Gospel of God’s grace through faith in Jesus Christ. Along with Luther, we affirm the value of all people. Every person is precious to God and to us—whether of high or low estate. The very first of Luther’s 95 Theses states: When our Lord and Master Jesus Christ said, ``Repent'' (Mt 4:17), he willed the entire life of believers to be one of repentance. (The Greek word for repent is μετανοώ [metanao], literally meaning to change one’s mind.) In addition to turning away from our sins, repentance calls us to change when Scripture and the Holy Spirit challenge our thinking and doing. This takes courage.

God of grace and God of glory, on Your people pour Your power...

From the fears that long have bound us, free our hearts to faith and praise...

Grant us wisdom, grant us courage... for the living of these days.

(Hymn text by Harry E. Fosdick, 1878-1969)

God’s Holy Spirit continues to call us forward in love, service and generosity. In this the 99 th year of the existence of First Lutheran Church, I’m grateful and glad to be heeding God’s call to work with all of you faithful followers of Christ. May God bless us with holy boldness in our endeavors to serve Him together.

In the Light of His Love, Pastor PS—What a privilege it was last summer to travel with other Lutherans to Reformation sites in Germany, including the Wittenberg Church where Luther posted the 95 Theses! This picture is of our group in front of the door where he posted his list.

Join us at Friends at First 11:30 am–1:00 pm, Tuesday, November 21, 2017, in Bethany Hall where I plan to show pictures and tell about our trip. Be sure to make reservations for the delicious meal to be served.

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John F. Holt

FIRST LUTHERAN CHURCH WOMEN (FLCW) CARING AND SHARING

November 2017

+ Elizabeth +

Co-Chairs Carol Colstrup 373-4447, 318-0250 Pam Slette 373-6102

Workers Bonnie Bakken Deb Drescher Kristina Drescher Linda Hacker Judy Hoiseth

Cakes Donna Anderson Cheryl Beavens Raycy Edwin Janet Engebretson Jean Grube

Debra Hanson Katie Hebblewhite Denise Knutson Joan Miller Kelly Pipho Barb Rognes

Sandra Jensen Sue Larson Jinni Olson Kathy Olson

Ann Satre Jackie Sletten Deb Strosahl Beth Tostenson

A service ministry of the First Lutheran Church Women, ‘Caring & Sharing’ circles’ primary mission is Niki Solum to comfort grieving families Julie Ulve Wanda Wangsness & friends when a loved one has died, by serving the Elaine Weiser refreshments following Melody Wynia funeral services.

FLCW November Program Wednesday, November 8, 2017 1:15 p.m.

GIFT BASKET SILENT AUCTION

Program: Quilting By: Tep Christensen and Deb Hanson Thank Offering Litany of Thanksgiving

What: Themed gift baskets for SILENT AUCTION When: During Holidays Ahead on Nov. 18, 2017 Why:

To raise funds for local and global missions

How:

Groups or individuals create gift baskets by purchasing new items and/or gift cards

Circle #6 is organizing this event. If you or your group is interested in creating a basket, please contact Mary Stapleton (377-2628) or Marcia Habben (383-5116) for more information.

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Holidays Ahead Crafters meet Monday mornings at 9 in Bethany Hall. If you have made any crafts you wish to donate, please bring to the church by Wednesday, November 15.

WHAT’S HAPPENING AT FLC? Dad’s Belgian Waffles On Sunday, November 5 we will Celebrate “the communion of saints”. All faithful Christians, those in heaven and those living for God on earth, are counted among this communion.

Sponsor, Albert Lea TTT Chapter W

Sunday, November 5, 2017 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

We send girls to camp.

All you can eat! $7 person Children 5 & under FREE First Lutheran Church Bethany Hall

Tobacco continues to be the leading cause of preventable death and disease. The tobacco industry spends nearly $1 million in advertising products that are appealing to kids including fruit, candy and mint flavors. Join us in learning about youth tobacco use, strategies the tobacco Industry is using to target our kids and specific products being used.

welcome any gently used books for Pre-schoolers -1st Hello Parents and Pre- Schoolers: When mom and dad come to check out a grade. If you would book at the First Lutheran Church Library, like to share them with the children’s ask if you can come with them. We have made a book nook area just for you! In the book nook area we would greatly book nook you will find a selection of appreciate it! Books can be dropped off at children’s books that you can check out the First Lutheran Church Library anytime. and enjoy. Remember reading is fun!!!

Hope you will visit soon! The library would 4

Library Corner

WHAT’S HAPPENING AT FLC? (cont.)

FLC collection date—Sunday, November 19,

ARC Chili & Soup Supper First Lutheran Church Monday, November 13, 2017 4-7 pm in Bethany Hall Adults $7 Children ages 4-12 $4

It’s time to start thinking about collecting for your shoe boxes.

The Special Outreach Cause offerings for November are: Noisy Offering for the Salva-

tion Army Food Shelf & Salvation Army Backpacks for Kids. This will be

received during worship on Sunday, November 12, Thursday, November 16 and Sunday, November 19.

To give NOW to the special cause you can text the word Noisy and the amount to 507-788-8767. Example: $5.00 Noisy

Holidays Ahead First Lutheran Church Women Annual Craft & Baked Goods Bazaar

Saturday, November 18 First Lutheran Church Albert Lea, MN

Friends at First is a ministry for Older Adults that meets on the third Tuesday of the month at 11:30 a.m. in Bethany Hall for lunch and a program.

Tuesday, November 21, 2017

8:30 am—12:30 pm Sponsored by First Lutheran Church Women for Missions.

11:30 a.m. in Bethany Hall Menu: Turkey dinner

Sign-up and pre-pay $6 for your meal reservation.

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First Lutheran Church is looking for volunteers to serve on the following teams for our centennial celebration.

Historical Display Team This team will be in charge of going through all the memorabilia that we have accumulated over the years and finding a way to display the history of the past 100 years! Creating some sort of a History walk would be a great way to show off our church’s successes and history!

Creating a visual for the community!

Community Engagement Team This will be a group of people who will take the lead on organizing community event/events throughout the year of 2019. Things such as party in the park, picnics, random acts of kindness notes, and other ideas you may have to include the community. This team is really to engage the community in our celebration Worship and Music Team This Centennial team will be in charge of getting some incorporation of our history into our worship services every quarter. Things such as the bishop speaking, past seminarians, past pastor recognition and etc. Celebrating special events in our worship services.

Technology Team The technology team will be managing the social media Sites, newspaper, website and media portion of the centennial celebration. Making sure that all of our events are published and visible to the congregation and community. This is a very important piece.

Gift Shop Team This team will take the lead on getting a location figured out for our gift shop. Determine items to be ordered, budget needed, logistics of the gift shop and how we can make this happen for 2019.

Anniversary Celebration Team This team will take charge of planning an event or series of events to occur on our actual anniversary in September 2019.

These Teams are very important to help us celebrate 100 years!!! Please Join us!

If you have any questions or are interested in serving on any of these teams please contact Kara Heinemann or Sean Forde at 507-373-6424, Belinda Krysan at 507-369-5447 or Jo Hanson at 763-257-9018.

Pastoral Records Baptism

Elliana Claire Kotzenmacher — October 8, 2017

Funeral

Mary Kron — October 13, 2017 6

SHARING OUR GIFTS & TALENTS What is Stewardship really?

1 Timothy 6:7 – “After all, we didn’t bring anything with us when we came into the world, and we certainly cannot carry anything with us when we die.” Stewardship is about more than money. It’s about managing God’s resources. What resources? Everything we have comes from God. Everything we are comes from God. We live out stewardship when we give of our time, share our talents and skills; serve others at church, in the community and in our world. Money is necessary to keep the doors of the church open, expand programs and provide materials to grow in our faith and reach out to others to share the Gospel message, but it is much more than that. We are all capable of accomplishing great things because God has given us a heart for Jesus. We are stewards of God’s resources when we participate, share, serve, and yes, give of our wealth, always remembering that our abundance comes from God. Our response is to say thank you and share the many ways we have been so richly blessed. Romans 11:12b – “They all have the same Lord who gives His riches to all who ask for them.” Let’s continue to show our thanks by being a part of all that stewardship means. Agape’.

SHARE YOUR STORY OR MEMORY WITH US

Thank you to all who have submitted recipes. Please keep them coming in. We would like to have a recipe from every family unit in the congregation. We also thank you for the memories or stories some have attached to their recipe submission. We have created a form for you to jot down a memory or a story you would like to share. So many of you have been members for many years, and I’m sure many of you have a favorite memory or a story about the history of our beautiful church home or an experience or story about your faith walk at First Lutheran. The forms will be at the Welcome Center with the recipe forms, as well as outside the church office where you will also find recipe forms. We are considering a booklet of shared stories and/or memories to share as part of the Centennial Celebration. We hope you will participate. If you would rather tell your story to someone, contact Jo Hanson at 763-257-9018 or jobunny19@gmail.com so we can set up an interview time. Can’t wait to hear what you have to share!

THANK YOU The Social Ministry Commission thanks everyone who helped with the Lutheran World Relief Ingathering on Saturday, October 14. Fifty two area churches donated 2250 School Kits, 1550 Quilts & Blankets, 630 Personal Care Kits, 275 Baby Care Kits, 50 Fabric Kits, 450 Bars of Soap, and $3000 for LWR shipping costs. Crossroads Trailer of Albert Lea provided the transportation to the LWR warehouse in St. Paul.

Special thanks goes to ALL the volunteers - especially the youth who worked, to FLC staff members who helped us in various ways - especially JT & Julie, and Steve for his masterful conveyor system, and to Loring & Ginny for the treats. Our next Ingathering will be in May, 2018.

The Haiti Mission Trip group would like to thank all the members of First Lutheran congregation and the community for supporting our Spaghetti Fundraiser and silent auction. We are so thankful and our hearts are full! We are ready to serve in Haiti!

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NOVEMBER 2017 Sun

Mon

Tue

Our Continued Prayers are requested for healing and wholeness for: Betty Abben, Adeline Baker, Alan J. Christensen, Mary Ann Christian, Alyssa Gilderhus, Grant Gordon, Tate Manahl Millard Hamborg, Breckyn Heinemann, Karen Houge, Fred (Fritz) Moran, Michael Olson, Colleen Politz, Carol Spear, Betty Stolaas and… safety for people serving in the Armed Forces, and their families.

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All Saints Sunday

8 am-Traditional w/Comm.-S

8:30 am-12:30 pm-TTT Belgian Waffle Breakfast-BH

9:15 am-Worship w/Comm.-C

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3 pm-Thorne Crest Communion-FLC 6 pm-Welcome Committee meets 6:30 pm-Commissions meet-BH 7 pm-Narcotics Anonymous-MPR 7:30 pm-Spirit Express Band & Singers Rehearsal

5:30 pm-Bell Cho 6:30 pm-Commu your students ba Southern MN Stu 6:30 pm-FLC Cho

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8 am-Quilters-MPR 9:30 am-Staff meeting-P 1:00 pm-St. John’s on Fountain Lake Service of Communion-FLC 2:30 pm-Senior Towers-FLC 7 pm-Narcotics Anonymous-MPR 7:30 pm-Spirit Express Band & Singers Rehearsal

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21

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7 pm-Narcotics Anonymous-RR

8 am-Quilters-MPR 9:30 am-Staff meeting-P 11 am-Library Board-L 11:30 am-Friends at First-BH 6 pm-Altar Guild-S & BH 7 pm-Narcotics Anonymous-MPR 7:30 pm-Spirit Express Band & Singers Rehearsal

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6 pm-MC #6-MPR

5:30 pm-Sweet Hour of Prayer-C 7 pm-Narcotics Anonymous-MPR 7:30 pm-Spirit Express Band & Singers

Advent Adv 11 am-de 11:30 am 12:30 pm 1:15 pm-C

9 am Holidays Ahead Crafting-BH

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7 pm-Narcotics Anonymous-R

10:30 am-Praise & Worship w/Comm.-S

10:30 am-Praise & Worship -S Noisy Offering

9am- Holidays Ahead Crafting-BH

4-7 pm-ARC Soup & Chili Supper-BH 7 pm-Narcotics Anonymous-RR

19 8 am-Traditional w/Comm.-S

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9:15 am-Immersion-BH 9:15 am-Sunday School 9:15 am-The Donut Hour-YR

6:30 pm-Church Council meets-P

9:15 am-Worship w/Comm.-C

10:30 am-Praise & Worship w/Comm.-S Noisy Offering

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Christ the King Sunday

8 am-Traditional -S 9:15 am-Worship -C

9:15 am-Immersion-BH 9:15 am-Sunday School 9:15 am-The Donut Hour-YR

10:30 am-Praise & Worship -S

8 am-Praye 8:30 am-FLCW Bo 9:30 am-Bible St 10:30 am-Good S 3 pm-Oak Park P 5:30 pm-Bell Cho 6:30 pm-Confirm 6:30 pm-FLC Cho 7 pm-Eikon-YR

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9:15 am-Immersion-P 9:15 am-Sunday School 9:15 am-The Donut Hour-YR

9:15 am-Immersion-BH 9:15 am-Sunday School 9:15 am-The Donut Hour-YR

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6 pm-Girl Scouts-MPR

8 am-Traditional -S 9:15 am-Worship -C

Wed

8 am-Quilters-MPR 9:30 am-Staff meeting-P

8 am-Quilters-MPR 9:30 am-Staff meeting-P

7 pm-Narcotics Anonymous-RR

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8 am-P 9:30 am-Bible St 1:15 pm-FLCW Pr

8 am-Pra 9:30 am-Bible St 1:30 pm-MC #12 1:30 pm-MC #31

5:30 pm-Bell Cho 6:30 pm-Confirm 6:30-8 pm-FLC C 7 pm-Eikon-YR

8 am-Pr 9:30 am-Bible St 5:30 pm-Bell Cho 6:30 pm-Confirm

6:30 pm-Thank

6:30-8 pm-FLC C 7 pm-Eikon-YR

8 am-Pra 9:30 am-Bible St 12:30 pm-Messe

5:30 pm-Bell Cho 6:30 pm-Confirm 6:30-8 pm-FLC C 7 pm-Eikon-YR

Thu

Fri

Sat

er Group-PR oard-P tudy-MPR Samaritan-Asc. Place-FLC oir Rehearsal mation oir Rehearsal

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3

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1 & 5:15 pm-Tops- LL 2 pm-FLC Legacy Seminar-P 3 pm-Yoga Calm Class-RR 5:30 pm-Al-Anon-P 5:30 pm-Al-Anon kids-N

1 pm-Hardanger-MPR

10 am-Alcoholics Anonymous-MPR

Prayer Group-PR tudy-MPR rogram-BH

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1 & 5:15 pm-Tops- LL 2:30 pm-St. John’s Communion-Grace 3 pm-Yoga Calm Class-RR

1 pm-Hardanger-MPR

8 am-1 pm-ESA Sorority meeting-BH 9:30 am-MC #20-P 10 am-Alcoholics Anonymous-MPR

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oir Rehearsal unity Event, What’s in ackpack?- Trends in udent Tobacco use-BH oir Rehearsal

ayer Group-PR tudy-MPR 2-MPR 1-P

oir Rehearsal mation hoir Rehearsal

rayer Group-PR tudy-MPR oir Rehearsal mation

6:30 pm-Chapel Service w/Comm.

7 pm-Concordia College Moorhead Orchestra Concert-S

5:30 pm-Al-Anon-P 5:30 pm-Al-Anon kids-N

6:30 pm-Chapel Service

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Noisy Offering

10:30 am Prairie Sr. Cottages Communion-Asc.

10 am-Alcoholics Anonymous-MPR

Set up Holidays Ahead

1 & 5:15 pm-Tops- LL 3 pm-Yoga Calm Class-RR 5:30 pm-Al-Anon-P 5:30 pm-Al-Anon kids-N

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Happy Thanksgiving

Office & Building Closed

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10 am-Alcoholics Anonymous-MPR

Thanksgiving Break

Office & Building Closed

hoir Rehearsal

venture evotions -lunch -recital Crèche Walk

oir Rehearsal mation hoir Rehearsal

8:30 am-12:30 pm Holidays Ahead-BH-MPR

6:30 pm-Chapel Service w/Comm.

ksgiving Eve Service-S

ayer Group-PR tudy-MPR enger preparation

Veterans Day

30 1 & 5:15 pm-Tops- LL 3 pm-Yoga Calm Class-RR 5:30 pm-Al-Anon-P 5:30 pm-Al-Anon kids-N 6:30 pm-Chapel Service

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EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT Name: Timothy O’Shields Job Title: Music Minister Tell us a little about yourself: I was born in South Carolina. I grew up and moved to Baltimore, MD. The Rocky Mountains were where I really wanted to live. I targeted Denver and got a job there. I lived half my life in Colorado before moving to Albert Lea, MN. I am a chemist by education. I worked on the corporate team for the world's largest environmental testing and consulting firm spending more time on planes and away from home than in the home that I loved. I have loved my life here in Minnesota-four seasons of beauty. In January, I will be half way with the Seminary Course work for my Masters of Divinity. It is a great journey, and I would not be able to do this at all without the love and support from First Lutheran Church! Thank you Family: Mother who lives in South Carolina and Brother who lives in Georgia.

How long have you been at First Lutheran Church? In his 5th year!

What is your favorite thing about your job? I love the people of the church and the service to God. Most memorable moment at First Lutheran church? After I was interviewed and was called to First Lutheran, I stepped into the sanctuary and was in awe. I couldn’t believe how beautiful it was. What a beautiful place to worship.

If you could do another job for a day what would it be and why? I would stay at the church. Why waste a day when you love what you’re doing.

If you could meet anyone in the world dead or alive who would it be? I would want to meet Noah. I would ask him how he kept all the animals calm during the storm and how they ate and prepared their food.

Do you have a favorite Quote or Bible verse? John 14:6 – Jesus answered, “ I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the father except through me.”

If you had to eat one meal every day for the rest of your life what would it be?

Bananas and nuts.

If you were stuck on an island what three things would you bring?

I would bring my pillow, water bottle and shoes. I have sensitive feet!

What is one item on your bucket list? I have traveled to 48 states. I have two left Alaska and Hawaii that I would like to visit.

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MANAGING GOD’S RESOURCES September 2017 Financial Reports - Year-to-Date FLC General Fund (G.F.) Actual Budget Over/(Under) Offerings Other Income Total Income Expenses Surplus (Deficit) January 1, 2017 September 30, 2017

$470,814 79,254 $550,068 $584,118 ($34,050) $111,264 $77,214

$523,500 80,850 $604,350 $604,350 -0G.F. ‘Fund Balance’ G.F. ‘Fund Balance’

($52,686) ($1,596) ($54,282) 20,232 ($34,050)

FLC Broadcast Ministries Radio Income Expense Net gain (loss)

Actual $6,963 8,118

Peace & Power Income Expense

($1,155)

Net gain (loss)

Who knew $5 could have such an impact?

Actual $32,548 34,496 ($1,948)

The Stewardship Commission would like to thank Mollee Tscholl, Craig Ludtke and Steve Schultz for their informative temple talks on the state of the First Lutheran Church budget for 2017. It’s very easy to just rock along believing all is well when we drive up to the church and the lights are on, the heating or air conditioning are working, coffee is made and all of us have received our Messengers and were handed a bulletin as we entered the sanctuary.

Perhaps we need to take a moment and realize that we should thank God for all of these things every week. The monies we put in the offering plate are the result of the gifts and wealth God first gave us. We need to be reminded that costs increase and maintenance of our beautiful church building does not take place by magic. As our speakers so aptly pointed out, giving an additional $5 per week per giving family will bring us into balance with our budget for the year. The price of a burger, a movie ticket or a specialty coffee will allow us to meet our budget and keep everything operating smoothly. In 2017, it was necessary to cut a number of programs to balance that budget.

In 2018, we want to avoid that happening again. First we have to meet the 2017 budget.

Thank you for prayerfully considering an additional $3 to $5 per week to bring us to a positive close for the year. There is a true story about a mission church that often had a shortfall just to meet basic expenses. It was not unusual in high usage months for the electric bill, gas bill, a repair invoice or phone bill to appear on a table in the Narthex with a request for someone to pick it up and pay it if they were able. The bills always got paid. We are far from that situation, but we do need to be aware that dollars are necessary to maintain our staff, our building and outreach to our families and the community. God has richly blessed us at First Lutheran; let’s work on managing the resources God has given us and meet our budget this year. Thank you for all you do!

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MEMORIALS, HONORS & SPECIAL GIFTS PEACE & POWER FUND In Memory Of: Al Carstens given by: Vern & Shirley Strand, Millard & Phyllis Hamborg, Hazel Senske, Jack & Orlene Woodside, Jerry & Garnice Rasmusson, Ben & Phyllis Fredrickson, Lee & Sara Aikens, Tom & Sandy Johnson, Todd & Ann Kriewall, Mark & Terri Stadheim, Beverly Grotsun, Don & Neva Mathison, Herb & Barb Andersen, Julie Savelkoul, Pauline Hall, Linda Ferguson, Martin & Karen Johnson, Neal & Jean Skaar, Gerald & Geraldine Vogt, Dale & Dorothy Baldwin, Morris Furniture Company, Bob & Helen Edwin, Helen Lovik

Robert Bowman given by: Phyllis Ulland

Matthew Stern - son of Mr. & Mrs. Larry Stern of California given by: Cousins Deb Christenson, Dick Stern, Aunt Ruth Ann Friday and our many departed loved ones

Charlene Jensen given by: Thomas & Karen Hovde

Denise Frydenlund given by: Verona Boe Mona Lund given by: Marjorie Peterson and family, Paul & Jan Overgaard, David & Rachel Christensen, Kenneth & Athelene Gerber, Henry & Margaret Savelkoul, Roger & Lois Tinker, Mary Keating, Family & friends, Tom & Judy Mullen, Beverly Grotsun, Judy Menssen, Lilah Aas Our nephew Matthew Stern given by: Larry & Lorraine Fjelstad Brad Shoff given by: Hazel Senske, Timothy & Mary Carroll, Bill & Judy Stilley Helen Christopherson given by: Wayne & Dorothy Hanson Harriet Helgeson given by: Monrad & Karen Mandsager Richard Amos Knudson given by: Rhoda Knudson Martha Wangen given by: Her family Gaylord Olson given by: Donald & Arlis Smith, Mavis Bergo Ross Severtson given by: Inge Rhiger, Bob & Helen Edwin, Rolland Twito & Paddy Hoium, Bill & Judy Stilley, Christopher Shoff Dorothy Erlandson given by: Tom & Karen Hovde

My husband Richard Wasmoen given by: Lois Wasmoen Don Babbitt given by: Bill & Judy Stilley Virginia Miller given by: Bill & Judy Stilley Geraldine Kingstrom given by: Bill & Judy Stilley, Helen Lovik, Merriell Jahnke, Ben & Phyllis Fredrickson My father L. Richard Bryson given by: Laurel J. Glewwe Harlan Bang given by: Lorraine Bakken, Helen Lovik, Merriell Jahnke, Christopher Shoff, Hildy Vallevand Harriet Helgeson given by: Helen Lovik Bea Slette given by: Helen Lovik Gwen Lee given by: Christopher Shoff Mary Kron given by: Norris Lovik, Jack & Orlene Woodside, Keno & Donna Knutson, Hildy Vallevand, Clifford & Margaret Otterson Leo Mattson given by: Geraldine Sauke In Honor Of: Vic Nelson given by: Jim & Sheila Hansen Carlyle (Callie) Lageson for his birthday given by: Mary Keating, John & Thelma Foss Marvyl Dahl given by: Mission Circle #31 of First Lutheran Church of Albert Lea, MN Gifts Given By: Colleen Politz, Raymond & VaLane Tyler, Carolyn Flesche, Arlo & Mary Ann Blumer, Leroy & Garnet Folie, Patricia Tallman, Judy Waalkens RADIO FUND In Memory Of: Al Carstens given by: Jim & Jane Loge, Deb Pilgrim, Bonnie Schneider, Bob & Joni Rowe, Alton Flugum, Ron & Judy Hagen, Marge Moine, Bob & Sharon Johnson 12

MEMORIALS, HONORS & SPECIAL GIFTS (cont.)

Gifts Given By: Bill & Ann Satre, First Lutheran Church Women of Albert Lea, MN

In Honor Of: Tim O’Shields for all the wonderful music given by: Rhoda Knudson

PRAYER SHAWL FUND In Memory Of: Al Carstens given by: Jane Maiden

GENERAL FUND In Honor Of: Our wonderful staff here at First Lutheran Church given by: Don & Neva Mathison

Irene Enstad - mother of Diane Schlosser given by: Fritz & Cheryl Moran MUSIC FUND In Memory Of: Mona Lund given by: The Andersen’s - Herb, Barb, Tom, Sherri & Julie, Robert & Shirley Indrelie, Mark & Terri Stadheim, Steven Williams, Warren & Ruth Williams, Richard & Sandra Murray, Keith & Deloris Fligge Dick Montei for his November 4th birthday given by: Gen Montei

Gifts Given By: Judy Waalkens ALTAR GUILD FUND In Memory Of: Denise Frydenlund given by: Steve & Sharon Overgaard ADULT CHOIR ROBE STOLES/MUSIC FOLDERS FUND In Memory Of: Al Carstens given by: Alan & Bonnie Bakken

MISCELLANEOUS FLC INFORMATION FIRST LUTHERAN MESSENGER (USPS196-560)

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)

FIRST LUTHERAN CHURCH OFFICE: Phone (507) 373-6424; E-mail: firstoffice@flcal.org; Fax 373-6330 Mailing address—301 W. Clark St., Albert Lea, MN 56007 Office Hours—Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Friday 4:50 p.m.)

Web site–www.flcal.org PASTORAL STAFF e-mails and emergency telephone numbers: Pastor John Holt, johnh@flcal.org (Cell–383-4750; Home–377-0046) Pastor Sean Forde sean@flcal.org (Cell 772-323-1778) Normal Hours for the FLC Building Sunday: 7:00 am–12:00 noon; Monday–Thursday: 7:00 am–9:00 pm Friday: 8:00 am – 4:50 pm; Saturday: 8:00 – 11:50 am Other times by appointment or as meetings/events are scheduled 13

FLC YOUTH ANNOUNCEMENTS ATTENTION: Parents of College Students We would love to send your college student a care package from our congregation this fall (sometime before Finals). We want to let them know we are thinking about and praying for them during their time of studies.

Please email Jordan (jordan@flcal.org) your student’s address so we can get them on our list and send them a package.. If you have questions or would like to help please contact Jordan (373-6424)

Help us send Care Packages to our College Students We are planning on sending care packages to our college students at the beginning of December and we could use your help. If you feel led to help/support there are a few ways to do that: 1. We are in need of supplies. Please sign up on the Supply Sign up sheet in the Gathering Space or Office.

2. We need money to help cover costs for shipping.

3. We ask for your prayers for our college students.

Any amount of supplies/money/help is very much appreciated. If you have questions or would like to donate you can contact Jordan (373-6424) or email at jordan@flcal.org

Care Package Supply List         

30 Highlighters 60 Mechanical Pencils 60 Pens 60 pkg of Microwave Popcorn 30 pkg. of Gum 30 tubes of Chapstick Hard Candy 30 pkg of crackers 30 pkg of travel tissues

The Garden Project - Update We are all done with the garden. The last of the vegetables are out and the garden is cleaned up.

We had a great season of planting, weeding, & harvesting. We look forward to doing it again next year. To date we have donated 419 pounds of fresh vegetables to Salvation Army!

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60 pkg of Post it Notes 60 packets of Hot Cocoa Mix 60 pkg. of Ramen Noodles 30 pkg. of Mints 50 Granola Bars 30 pkg. of Easy Mac 60 Candy Canes Lots of Baked goods

We have 19 youth and 4 adults registered for the ELCA Youth Gathering in Houston, TX in the summer of 2018. In preparation for this trip, the youth will be focusing their time on doing a number of service projects throughout the year here at church and in the community. Loving God and serving our neighbors is at the core of our values. So, we are replacing our usual fund-raising efforts with an emphasis on service projects.

MUSICAL NOTES Fall Greetings! Psalm 100: Shout for joy to the Lord all the earth! Worship the Lord

with gladness; come before him with joyful songs. Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. Wow! Can you believe it is almost Thanksgiving! Our God is so good to us, we should give thanks to God every day of the year! We are still looking for Thanksgiving and Christmas Reinforcement for our choir. We need your help! This is a short-term commitment!!!

We need reinforcements in ALL parts--Soprano, Alto, Tenor, and Bass--especially Tenor and Bass!

Please come on down and make choir your home--even if it is only for this Christmas season!

Thanks for your prayerful consideration.

ONGOING IN NOVEMBER— First Lutheran Church Choir--Open to ages youth through adult--Wednesday Rehearsals from 6:30 to 8 PM. You don't have to read music! We will work with you!

First Lutheran Church Hand Bell Choir--Open to ages youth through adult--Wednesday Rehearsals from 5:30 to 6:25 PM. We are looking for music readers for bells!

Spirit Express Band and Singers--Open to ages youth through adult--Tuesday Rehearsals from 7:15 to 8:45 PM. We are always looking for singers and band players!

SAVE THE DATES!!!!— Friday, November 3, 2017, 7 PM, we are hosting the Concordia College (Moorhead) Orchestra in Concert. This will be a powerful concert by a renowned orchestra. Our own Tyler Egge will be playing in the concert. We have to house about 65 students for that Friday evening, November 3rd.

If you are able to host 2 or more students, please complete the housing form found in the Gathering Space Worship-Music-Arts Kiosk. Thanks for your support!

Advent Adventure Returns to FLC on Wednesdays in Advent. The Creche Walk will return!

Here is the Advent Recital Schedule: Wednesday, November 29, 2017 at 12:30 PM--Rachel Christensen, Harp Wednesday, December 6, 2017 at 12:30 PM--Eric Bate, Violin Wednesday, December 13, 2017 at 12:30 PM--Tim O'Shields--Sounds of the Season The Hanging of the Green Christmas Concert will be held on Friday, December 8, 2017 at 7 PM. This holiday tradition will feature the traditional hanging of the Christmas "green", the choirs of First Lutheran Church, and a full orchestra.

Thanks for your prayers and support.

Peace, Tim tim@flcal.org, 507-373-6424, 303-887-4513 15

Come Worship With Us THE MISSION OF FIRST LUTHERAN CHURCH IS:TO GATHER, EQUIP, AND EMPOWER PEOPLE TO JOYFULLY DO

CHRIST’S WORK.

8 am — Worship- in the Sanctuary 9:15 am — Worship- in the Chapel 9:15 am — Sunday School 9:15 am — Immersion-in Bethany Hall 10:30 am — Praise & Worship- in the Sanctuary Thursday: 6:30 pm Worship Service in the Chapel * Holy Communion: First & Third Sundays of the month First & Third Thursdays of the month

Adult Bible Study 9:15 am — Sunday morning “Immersion” 9:30 am — Wednesday morning Bible Study –

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

Periodicals Postage Paid at Albert Lea, MN 56007

Sunday Worship Broadcasts 10:00 a.m. - Peace & Power-KAAL TV- Channel 6 (11:00 a.m. - KATE RADIO AM 1450

First Lutheran Church—F.L.C.—For the Love of Christ

[Address label here]

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