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Nov. 2021

Volume LXXI No. 11

Holidays Ahead Saturday, November 20, 2021 9 AM – 11:30 AM Bethany Hall Perfect Gift shop will be open Masks are recommended Sponsored by FLCW for local and global missions

Featuring: Coffee with egg bake and pastries Crafts Lefsa Bake shop Gift baskets and more

If you would like to make a gift basket, please attach a list with the contents and value. Baskets should be turned in to the church office by Wednesday, November 17th. If you have any questions, please call Mary Stapleton at 402-3146.

In-Gathering by the numbers 40 churches participated •1643 Quilts •1985 School Kits •451 Personal Care Kits

•246 Baby Care Kits •48 Sewing Kits •$3,070 for shipping cost

FLCW donated $195 for School Kit Supplies

KUDOS to the 25+ volunteers who helped with the loading process!! SPECIAL & GRATEFUL THANKS to Crossroads Trailer of Albert Lea for the means of transport & delivery to the LWR warehouse in St. Paul!!

The First Lutheran Church Council is calling a

Congregational Meeting Sunday, November 14th Following the 8 am service Please plan on attending this meeting either in person or via Zoom. If you wish to attend via Zoom, please email Jordan – jordan@flcal.org by Thursday, November 4th so the appropriate link and instructions can be sent to you.

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Welcome Pastor Joy Knoppel! Hello First Lutheran Church! My name is Joy (she/hers) and I am very excited to serve as your Pastor for this year! I recently completed my M.Div at The University of Chicago and am finishing up the ELCA ordination process (I am awaiting a First Call!) I love a good conversation, cheese, and being outside in the sun with my bernedoodle Boba! I believe that ministry is not a performance, but instead a partnership. I hope to meet each of you where you are at and walk with you as we navigate this one life that we have been given. Thank you for letting me be a part of your church this year, and I look forward to moving and growing in our ministry together! Warmly, Joy K.

The Food Distribution Team and Social Ministry would like to thank everyone for their generous support of the drive through food distribution on Thursday evenings. We are so grateful for the many who have volunteered to help us in numerous ways in this very successful outreach to our community. Food uncertainty/insecurity continues to be an issue for many in our community as indicated by the recent increase in meals served. September 30th, the team served approximately 170 meals. This number is up from the 100-125 that we have served for some time. At the previous rate, we had estimated funds through the middle of December 2021. However, with the increase in numbers, if they continue, we are looking at a shortage of funds before that date. If the money runs out, the ability to meet this food need will also end. We have received grant money but have exhausted that resource at this point in time. If you can help, please make your check payable to First Lutheran Church and identify it for the Food Distribution Program. Cash donations should be placed in a separate envelope identified for Food Distribution. No amount is too small. Your support is needed and greatly appreciated. If you are aware of a grant opportunity, please notify the office so we can fill out the necessary paperwork.

Fallfest - Sunday November 7, 2021 Polka Worship Service at 10 a.m. All are welcome

Dinner (following the service) Tickets: $12 Adult $5 Child

We are still seeking volunteers.

Do you have 15 to 20 minutes following the 10:00 a.m. service to assist the Ramblers in moving their instruments and equipment from the sanctuary to the stage in Bethany Hall? We still need 3 or 4 more. If you can help, please sign up on the sheet outside the office or call Jo Hanson, 763-257-9018, if you can help. We still need help clearing tables and helping at the drink and dessert service areas. Thanks for Serving!

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A few words from Pastor Roger Greetings siblings in Christ! In the months since I arrived at First Lutheran Church, I continue to grow in love for this group of people more and more. The church is full of enthusiasm and energy. It is a great feeling! I am incredibly grateful for this community. God has been moving mightily among us and I am thankful for how our church has embraced the future that the Holy Spirit is leading us into.

When I first arrived, I had a wonderful colleague in Pastor Jan. She cared deeply for all of you, and I very much enjoyed my time working with her. As her time ended with us, we had questions about what would happen next. I shared those feelings also. After her departure, I have been one busy pastor! First Lutheran is a busy place and during the past six weeks of working as a solo pastor we have done a lot of good ministry together. We had baptisms, weddings, and funerals. We have launched our new Fusion youth program and Wednesday Worship (which you are all invited to attend!). However, I experienced why we have always had more than one pastor here. There is much work to do. I am happy to share with you that Pastor Joy Knoppel is joining us to serve as a bridge pastor for us. She is full of energy and excited to be a part of FLC as we prepare to form a call committee and call another pastor. Be sure to stay tuned for more announcements about this and how you can help. Pastor Joy will be introducing herself during the next few weeks. I hope that you will all give her a warm welcome. As we approach Thanksgiving in a few weeks, I want to share how thankful I am for all of you. Just a few months ago, my family and I came to Albert Lea to begin this new adventure, and we did not know what to expect. We found a community that has embraced us with open arms. First is a group of believers that have a rich tradition and a history of being a beacon within Albert Lea. Over the years you have engaged our fine town and shared the good news of Jesus in many new and exciting ways. Fusion and our live-streaming ministries and our Thursday food ministries are all great examples of how we continue to be innovative in following the Gospel of Jesus. Our church has a bright future. God has great things in store for this family of faith. Thank you for being a part of it and joining in the work of God’s hands. Shalom, Pastor Roger Fears

The Church Council is looking for congregation members to serve on our Call Committee. If you are interested, please contact Kara Heinemann at the Church Office. 507-373-6424

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More Volunteers Needed We could still use a few more hands to help with Fusion. Some areas where we are still in need are: - Snack prep/clean-up - Arts & Crafts helpers (clean-up) - Hall monitors - Substitute teachers Contact Jenny Edwin at 373-6424

Operation Christmas Child Please consider supporting your church, as we are again participating in Operation Christmas Child……fill a shoebox….give monetarily for postage….pray for the children receiving these special boxes. All support is appreciated! Boxes and pamphlets will be available on Sundays outside the church office. Each pamphlet offers suggestions of what to put in your box. Please bring your filled box to church anytime between now and November 21. Make a child happy. Share the love of Christ!

From Parish Health & Wellness Ministry Team

Reduce stress at the holidays…..

During the holiday season it always seems the pace gets faster than usual and to place holiday preparation on top of an already busy schedule can cause a lot of stress. Add to this the fact that many of us are caretakers of children, aging parents, or spouses. What can we do to bring balance? Pray the familiar, but very wise Serenity Prayer several times during the day. Grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can and the wisdom to know the difference. Stay physically healthy and fit by eating a balanced diet, getting enough rest, and exercising daily. Stay emotionally healthy by taking breaks, laughing, calling a friend and asking for help. Try saying “no” now and then to the many demands that cross your path. Reduce stress before it happens by going for a walk, listening to music, or taking some deep breaths. Taking the time to play with a child can also reduce stress. Healthful Hints from: International Parish Nurse Resource Center Let God control your moments…..your days! Parish Health and Wellness is looking for Families and Individuals that are interested in making a difference in the lives of our homebound congregation members! This involves visiting a member(s) of our congregation on a monthly basis at your convenience. The goal is to simply visit with them, take prayer requests, show them they are cared about and, most importantly, build a relationship that can make a difference in your life and the person you are visiting. If you are interested in visiting, please contact Kara at 507-373-6424 or email at kara@flcal.org

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Women’s Ministry (FLCW) Caring and Sharing - November 2021 Chair: Carol Colstrup Ginny Thompson Workers: Bonnie Bakken Mary Harty Sue Larson Kathy Olson

Patricia Rainey Ann Satre Beth Tostenson

507-373-4447, 507-318-0250 507-383-4216 Cakes: Cheryl Beavens Rachel Christensen Raycy Edwin Denise Knutson Joan Miller Connie Moffitt

Barb Rognes Julie Ulve Wanda Wangsness Elaine Wieser Melody Wynia

November Program Wednesday, November 10, 2021

December Program Wednesday, December 8, 2021

1:15 p.m. in Bethany Hall

Program: Library at FLC

Program: Happy Birthday Jesus!

Altar Guild is looking for congregation members to join us. Do you wonder who puts out the flowers for holidays, adds water to the font for baptisms, or preps the supplies for communion? Come experience this fulfilling and rewarding service to the church. Please contact the church office for more information on how to join.

HAVE YOU INCLUDED FIRST LUTHERAN CHURCH IN YOUR WILL? Over the years, those First Lutheran Church members who have conscientiously included First Lutheran Church in their estate planning have enabled some very important and powerful ministry to happen. Please consider including First Lutheran Church in your estate planning. You can enable this congregation to serve many more people in the years and generations to come.

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Prayer Ministry Daily Scripture Verses from the Sharing the Faith Team

Theme for November - Why we give thanks... Giving thanks is very important to me because I have so much for which to be thankful: my family, my church, and being able to still go to work at a job that I truly love. I am thankful for my good neighbors and also my dear friends. What are you thankful for as we prepare to celebrate Thanksgiving 2021?

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

1 Chronicles 29:13 Lamentations 3:23 Psalm 28:7 Psalm 56:4 1 Timothy 1: 12 Psalm 89: 1-2 Psalm 95: 1-3 Psalm 92: 1-3 Psalm 100: 4 Psalm 107: 8-9

11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20

Philippians 4:8 1 Thessalonians 5: 16-17 1 Thessalonians 5: 18 Psalm 107: 1 Philippians 4:6 Psalm 7: 17 Ephesians 5: 20 Psalm 100: 1-5 James 1: 17 Psalm 100: 4

21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

Psalm 50: 14 Colossians 3: 15 Hebrews 13:-15 Isaiah 1: 1-6 Matthew 6: 25 & 34 Psalm 31:19 Colossians 4: 2 Colossians 3: 17 2 Corinthians 2: 14 Psalm 69: 30

Prayer List

Our Prayers are requested for healing and wholeness for: Merna Christenson, Aurora Everding, Mark Hagen, Jim Hansen, Ann Hanson, Khan Mut, Pauline Kohnke Nelson, Vern Rasmussen, Mollie Tolic, and Julie.

Our Continued Prayers are requested for healing and wholeness for: Alan J. Christensen, Mike & Mary Ann Christian, Thelma Foss, Grant Gordon, Dorothy Hanson, Greg Hatleli, Breckyn Heinemann, Nancy Jenson, Phil Koppelman, Amy Ladlie, Officer Arik Matson, Marilyn Moe, Alexandra Peterson, Larry Peterson, Jean Stearns and their spouses, families & caregivers. And our neighbors serving in the Armed Forces, law enforcement, firefighting, rescue and emergency services and their families.

10 am-Worship Service-S 10 am-Peace & Power on ABC6 10 am-KATE Radio-1450AM

9am-11:30-The Perfect Gift Shoppe open

8 am-Traditional Worship-S

9 am-Belgian Waffle Breakfast-BH 10 am-Worship Service-S 10 am-Peace & Power on ABC6 10 am-KATE Radio-1450AM 12 pm-Christian Solos

9am-11:30-The Perfect Gift Shoppe open

8 am-Traditional Worship-S

9:15 am– Congregational Meeting-S 10 am-Worship Service-S 10 am-Peace & Power on ABC6 10 am-KATE Radio-1450AM

9am-11:30-The Perfect Gift Shoppe open

8 am-Traditional Worship-S

9 am-Crafters-BH 6:30 pm– Church Council-P

8 am-Quilters-MPR & BH 9:30 am-Staff Meeting-P 11:15 am-Transition Team-P 5:15 pm-Handbell Rehearsal

8 am-Quilters-MPR & BH 9:30 am-Staff Meeting-P 11:15 am-Transition Team-P 11:30 am-Friends @ 1st-BH 12:30 pm-Library Board-L 5:15 pm-Handbell Rehearsal

8 am-Quilters-MPR & BH 9:30 am-Staff Meeting-P 11:15 am-Transition Team-P 5:15 pm-Handbell Rehearsal 5:30 pm-Worship, Music, Arts Team-BH 6:30 pm-Social Ministry-BH

10 am-Peace & Power on ABC6 10 am-Polka Worship Service-S 10 am-KATE Radio-1450AM 11 am-Fallfest Luncheon-BH

9 am-Crafters-BH 1 pm-History Team-L 2:30 pm-Spirit of Giving-P 5 pm-Life Center Chili Fundraiser-BH

8 am-Quilters-MPR & BH 9:30 am-Staff Meeting-P 11:15 am-Transition Team-P 5:15 pm-Handbell Rehearsal 5:30 pm-Worship, Music, Arts Team-BH

Tue

9 am-Crafters-BH

Mon

9am-11:30-The Perfect Gift Shoppe open

November

Sun

Thu

Fri

SSR=Sunday School Room

PR= Prayer Room

SL=South Lot

S=Sanctuary

MPR=Multi-Purpose Room

9 am-Advent Decorating-S

8 am –Holidays Ahead

Sat

L=Library CR=Choir Room

C= Chapel

Office & Building Closed BH=Bethany Hall

1 pm-Hardanger-MPR 5-6 pm-Food Ministry Drive Up-SL

P =Parlor

8 am-Prayer Group-PR 11 am-Mutual Ministry-P 1 pm-Messenger Crew-P 1 pm-TOPS Group-SSR 5:15pm-Gift Shop Open 6:30 pm– Thanksgiving Eve Worship Service-S

8 am-Prayer Group-PR 1 pm-TOPS Group-SSR 3:30 pm– Fusion-BH, SSR, MPR 5:15pm-Gift Shop Open 5:15pm– Wed. Evening Meal 6:30 pm– Worship Service-S 7 pm-Confirmation-BH 7:15 pm– Choir Rehearsal-CR

8 am-Prayer Group-PR 9:30 am-Bible Study-MPR 11 am-Mutual Ministry-P 1 pm-FLCW General Meeting-BH 1 pm-TOPS Group-SSR 3:30 pm– Fusion-BH, SSR, MPR 5:15pm-Gift Shop Open 5:15pm– Wed. Evening Meal 6:30 pm– Worship Service-S 7 pm-Confirmation-BH

8 am-Prayer Group-PR 8:30 am-FLCW Board-BH 9:30 am-Bible Study-MPR 1 pm-TOPS Group-SSR 3:30 pm– Fusion-BH, SSR, MPR 5:15pm-Gift Shop Open 5:15pm– Wed. Evening Meal 6:30 pm– Worship Service-S 7 pm-Confirmation-BH

Wed

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Comments Heard Over a Cup of Coffee “I really like the fall decorations around the church,” remarked one to another, “Yes, they are beautifully arranged; I wonder where the money to buy them is coming from,” replied another. One replied, “I heard some are donated and people have given money to buy new things.” “The children really were enthusiastic with their “AMEN” to Pastor’s youth talk this morning. Guess they are getting more into it,” said one to another. Another replied, “We’re getting better too!” “I loved the circle of Confirmands around the baptismal font in this morning’s service. I’ve never seen that before.” said one to another. Another replied, “Yes, it was a really special service. I loved that there were so many people in church this morning.”

Reaching out in Faith 2021/2022 Ephesians 4:16 “from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love.” Come Join us for our Spirit of Giving Day on Sunday November 14th or Wednesday November 17th! During this service we will be hearing personal testimonies from congregation members and a message from Pastor Roger about giving of service and finances. Thank you for all your generous support over the years!! First Lutheran Church is heading in an exciting direction!

The Special Outreach Cause Offering for the month of November is:

Noisy Offering for the Salvation Army Food Shelf Special offering envelopes will be available from the ushers at church services. Please make checks payable to FLC. 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)

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Need a greeting card? The Gift shoppe has some amazing Christian greeting cards for all occasions. The Shoppe also has some Christian shirts that would be great gifts, while you are there notice the beautiful jewelry. You can stop while your here for church on Wednesday or Sunday.

STARS Mentoring Program

Give the gift of friendship this holiday season! STARS mentoring helps youth who are in need of guidance and support by providing volunteer adult mentors. MENTORS ARE: Role models, advocates, cheerleaders, and a friend who makes a positive difference in a child’s life. People who provide guidance and support for at-risk children. Meeting with their mentee 2-4 times per month to have fun and do activities together. STARS (Success Through Adults Reaching Students) is a non-profit organization that serves both Freeborn County and the eastern portion of Faribault County. If you or someone you know is interested in becoming a mentor to share friendship and give the gift of your time, or if you would like a mentor for your child, please contact: Mary Jo Volkman Email: Starsforkids@yahoo.com, Phone: 507-383-5272 Website: starsforkids.org Facebook: Stars for Kids

Make a Difference in a Child’s Life Today!

Sept. 2021

Giving $55,607.58

Expenses $67,944.09

Year to date

Giving vs. Expenses $-12,336.51

Giving vs. Expenses $-55,416.17

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Memorials, Honors & Special Gifts PEACE & POWER FUND

In Memory of:

Cousin Marlene Behle given by Bob & Marilyn Sasser Sharon Bertstresser given by Gary & Ginny Thompson Kermit Delger given by Selma Engebretson Aunt Doris given by Roger Shari Manges Jean Frnak given by Craig Nash Cousin Nadine Johnson given by Bob & Marilyn Sasser Isabel “Isy” Lee given by Ruth Benson, Audrey Christensen, Gen Montei, Selma Engebretson, Bonnie Trampel, Bonnie Schneider Fred “Fritz” Moran given by Gloria Hajitt, Bob & Marilyn Sasser Laurence Thompson given by Shirley Larson Bill Weber given by Karen Wolff Cecilia Wingjum given by Phyllis Ulland

In Honor of:

Jan Crissinger given by Bev Grotsun Mavis Bryson for her 90th Birthday given by Tom & Betty Sime, Alton Flugum, Marvel Dahl, Margaret Hagen, Shirley Peterson, Marcie Severson, Mary Franzen, Carol Thompson, Deloris Becker, Carol Smith, Ron Yost, Paul & Carolyn Westrum, Bonnie Trampel, Gen Montei, Bonnie Schneider

Gifts Given By:

Harriet Wangen, Ila Breck, Leona Howe, Gilbert Gilbertson, Deacon Douglas Spiotta, Marilee Waalkens, Patricia Sites, Trainer Farm Inc, Phyllis Sands, Robert & Delores Singelstad, Kevin & Martha Kenne, Hildy Vallevand, Patricia Tallman, Helen Lovik, CRANBERRY HYMNALS

In Memory of:

Isabel and Darryl Lee given by Janice & Larry Lestrud Floyd and Josie Schenck given by Janice & Larry Lestrud Truman & Carrie Peterson given by Janice & Larry Lestrud

In Honor of:

Pastor Jan Crissinger given by Janice & Larry Lestrud FOOD MINISTRY

In Memory of:

Marlene Behle given by Bonnie Trampel Marion Drescher given by Bonnie Trampel Isabel Lee given by Jim & Jane Loge GENERAL FUND

In Memory of:

Marlene Dillemuth given by Bill & Judy Stilley Diane Franks given by Bill & Judy Stilley Tom Guiney given by Bill & Judy Stilley John “Jay” Johnsrud given by Wayne & Carol Hedalen

In Honor of:

Jim Hanson given by Sheila Hanson

Gifts Given By:

Hobert & Joyce Salisbury, Richard & Jacqueline Waite, Donald & Mary Ann Bartz, Sara Cogar, Karen Brand. Doris Schulz KIMBERLY OLSON GODDARD SCHOLARSHIP

In Memory of::

Jan Buss given by Carol Olson HAPPINESS IS A BLANKET

In Memory of:

Roman Hajek given by Pam Stern and Myrna Christensen LUTHERAN WORLD RELIEF VAN

Gifts Given by: Arlis Smith

OUTSIDE BANNER FUND

In Honor of:

Pastor Jan Crissinger given by David & Sue Olson

Volume LXXI No. 11 Page 11

Memorials, Honors & Special Gifts (cont.) PRAYER SHAWL FUND

In Memory of:

Cousin LaVonne (Maiden) Briggs who died October 7th given by Jane Maiden RADIO FUND

In Memory of :

Cousin Ilo Long given by Alton Flugum

Pastoral Records: Baptisms, Weddings, Deaths, Funerals, Memorial Services Baptisms Lane Raymond Baas, September 29 Annika Marie Dorman, October 24

STAINED GLASS LIGHTING FUND

In Memory of:

Cousin Mike Smith of Fostoria IA who died October 7th given by Jane Maiden Mother Eunice Maiden for her October 22md Birthday given by Jane Maiden

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

Friends at First

Tuesday November 16th 11:30 a.m. in Bethany Hall Cost: $6 Please sign up in the office & prepay by Monday November 15

Menu: Roast Beef, Mashed Potatoes & Gravy, Green Beans, Dinner Roll, & Pie

Funerals Isabel “Isy” Lee, October 3 Marlene Behle, October 21 Duane Hatleli, October 23 Marion Drescher, October 25

FLC BUILDING & OFFICE HOURS Office Monday — Thursday 9:00 AM-3:00 PM FRIDAY & SATURDAY CLOSED Sunday Building Hours—7 AM—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 distractors. If you need to come in outside of normal office hours please call for an appointment.

Building

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

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 Web site–www.flcal.org PASTORAL STAFF e-mails and emergency telephone numbers:

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

Worship Schedule

Church Council Leadership

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

President- Dawn Thompson Vice President- TBD Treasurer- Larry Larson/Dave VanFossen Secretary- Kristin Larson Education Team- Sue Loch Worship & Arts Team- Janice Hammer Social Ministry Team- Cindy Gandrud Youth Team- Fran Heilman Property Enhancement Team- Dave VanFossen Membership & Growth Team- Stephanie Passingham Spirit of Giving Team- TBD FLCW President Rep- Diane Damerow Sharing the Faith- Jo Hanson

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 10:00 a.m. - Peace & Power-KAAL TV- Channel 6 10:00 a.m. - Live broadcast on KATE Radio 1450

[Address label here]

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