Issuu

Lord of Life Lutheran Church, Maple Grove, MN Fall 2026

COMPASS FALL 2026 LORD OF LIFE 7401 County Road 101, Maple Grove, MN 55311-4313 Visit lordoflife.org/staff for a full staff listing with photos and email addresses. Send prayer requests to prayernetwork@lordoflife.org.

Phone: 763.420.5015

3 Website: lordoflife.org

Email: office@lordoflife.org Weekly enews: lordoflife.org/enews

welcome

4-5

do not be afraid

6-7

a safe place

8-9

why was Jesus not afraid?

transition team update 10-11 pastoral community building capital campaign

Facebook: facebook.com/lordoflifelutheran facebook.com/lolcyf

to meet you 12-13 nice visiting ministry FAQs

14-15

cultivating community: men’s ministry

16-17 make a joyful noise in choir

YouTube: youtube.com/lordoflifeluth

18-19 2026 summer interns 20-21 summer photo album

annie-spratt © unsplash+

joshua-earle © unsplash (cover)

Instagram: instagram.com/lordoflife instagram.com/cyf_lordoflife

of remembrance / registration 22-23 evening worship

Compass is a guide for those along the path of faith who seek to grow closer to Jesus Christ. It is a quarterly ministry from Lord of Life Lutheran Church (ELCA). Paper is one of the most sustainable natural resources. After reading, please recycle or share with a friend or neighbor, inviting them to Lord of Life’s community of faith. You don’t need to be a member to receive Compass. To receive it in the mail and/or electronically, call 763.420.5015 or email bevm@lordoflife.org. © 2026 Lord of Life Lutheran Church

W E L C O M E It’s always in the fall when I notice the trees. Maybe it’s because of the drastic change of color, but trees are truly magnificent plants. They purify the air and regulate water flow. They provide shade and relief from the heat. In forests, they function as a community, supporting each other through their roots. Studies have shown that spending time among the trees can help reduce stress and lower blood pressure. Plus, in the fall especially, they teach us how to let go. As the leaves slowly change their hue and drop to the earth’s floor, they remind us that all things must come to an end. But that end does not have to be final. When it is time, something new emerges. This season at Lord of Life is one where you are invited to notice the trees, so to speak. As you read the contents in this issue of Compass, I hope that you will be filled with God’s shalom, find comfort in the midst of fears, and feel encouraged to be present in a variety of ways. Come, take a look!

D O

N O T

B E

A F R

by Interim Lead Pastor David B. Zellmer

Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I send you.” John 20:21 NRSV The men and women in that upper room were without a doubt having the worst weekend of their life. Everything they had hoped and dreamed about— as they had spent the last three years with Jesus—had died on the cross three days before. They were filled with shame and remorse for failed promises and publicly denying even knowing Jesus. They had heard the news from Mary Magdalene that morning when she encountered Jesus in the tomb. They had heard from Peter and John. They had run to the tomb to check it out and the tomb was indeed empty. But Easter had not yet happened. They were still mired in the past, in their brokenness and sinfulness, and unable to hear the news that death did not win. Jesus enters the upper room. It starts with the blessing, “Peace be with you,” followed by showing them his hands and side. He follows with the same blessing, “Peace be with you,” but then gives a command, “as the Father has sent me, so I send you.” Shalom is the Hebrew word that we translate into our word, peace. It means wholeness and wellness. The photo below is my 5-year old grandson, Cooper, flying a plane with me across South Dakota. The look on his face is the best image of shalom that I can offer you. That’s the gift that Christ is offering his disciples in their brokenness: that a life centered in the risen Christ can bring about shalom. I learned how to fly in 1999. And I had a great instructor in Forrest Wixon, a retired military pilot. He had flown a number of different airplanes in his career and had instructed hundreds of students. As a teacher, he had a rare ability to never waste my time. Almost every moment was filled with an opportunity to experience and learn something. He would continuously add complexity surrounding the task of flying the airplane. He believed that getting distracted was the way that you ended up hurting the plane or yourself. He always focused on the central point that flying the airplane was the first and foremost responsibility. Forrest taught that there were three things that would not help you: the runway behind you, the altitude above you, and the gas that you didn’t put in the plane. He made me stay focused on the here and now. Instead of what has just happened or

A I D what might happen in the future—remember to fly the plane. Lord of Life is currently amid all kinds of distractions. Political discord in the nation. Rapid growth in Maple Grove and surrounding communities. Two pastors leaving, and all the emotions that change draws forth. All of which brings out a yearning to return to days gone by with only a murky picture of what is to come. The gift that Christ offered that day is still being offered to you today: “Peace be with you,” and the command is also still there as well, “as the Father has sent me, so I send you.” That command is for all of us, to keep Christ at the center of the church. As Christ’s disciples, we have work to do. We are to proclaim the news that death does not win, that sins are forgiven, and that there is shalom in Jesus Christ. The other photos that accompany this article were the start and finish of a well-remembered flight during my time serving as a bishop of South Dakota. The prairie in all its splendor was taken shortly after takeoff from Sioux Falls; the Badlands was shortly before touchdown at Hot Springs. My co-pilot was Cooper, who was able to do a large part of the flying (backed up by the autopilot and me). When I think of the Church, with us thinking we are firmly at the yoke flying the airplane, the picture of my grandson comes to mind as to who is actually in charge of the Church. Jesus Christ is the center of Lord of Life’s church, and Christ is offering wholeness and peace as you continue to be sent into this community and the world. God’s richest blessings to each of you as you live out the promise and command of Jesus our Savior. Shalom.

S A F E

P L A C E

by Deacon Elizabeth Pedersen

[Paul writes,] I’m convinced that nothing can separate us from God’s love in Christ Jesus our Lord: not death or life, not angels or rulers, not present things or future things, not powers or height or depth, or any other thing that is created. ~Romans 8:38-39 What’s it like for you when you encounter anxiety? Is it easy? Impossible? Somewhere in between? I find it so interesting how our emotions can impact our physical bodies—and how those emotions feel is different for each of us. For me, stress, nervousness, or anxious feelings have been a regular part of my emotional landscape throughout my life, and in my body, they have usually shown up either as a weight on my shoulders or a pit in my stomach. I remember when I played basketball in high school, I would always get terribly nervous before a game. Once, as I was called up to sub in for one of my teammates and waited on the sideline to go in, my stomach felt so upset that I had to run out of the gym to the bathroom. The anticipation was just too much! More recently, though, I’ve experienced a change in my relationship with anxiety. It used to be that when something was weighing on me, I could think about it for a bit, place where the feelings were coming from, and tend to them from there. But now? All bets are off. Now, my body responds differently to stress so that either I can’t connect what I’m feeling to why, or it comes out in a whole new way so I don’t know what to do with it. It is, quite frankly, not fun at all. And I’ve been left feeling like I don’t know myself like I used to. Thankfully, I have medical and mental health professionals walking alongside me in the midst of these changes. But this feeling of not knowing myself—or feeling like I can’t trust myself—sure is a doozy of a challenge of faith, too. After all the work I’ve done to learn about myself, build self-compassion, and connect with the truest identity of who God made me to be, it honestly feels like the rug just got pulled out from under me and I can’t help but ask, “What are we doing here, God?” Now, I know that the changes I’m experiencing are not the direct work of God’s hand. But isn’t it true that in times of confusion, hurt, or heartache, the most natural thing for us to do is to turn to God and throw our hands up in exasperation and blame? Oh, but if only it were that simple. The good news is, God’s love, patience, and compassion are sturdy enough to take the affront. Much like a parent who serves as the safe place for their young ones to express their big, misallocated emotions, I wholeheartedly believe that God receives every one of my outbursts, snide remarks, and fearful questions with an unwavering grace that wraps me up and says, “I know, this is so hard. I’m so glad you’re telling me.” And even though sharing life’s heaviness with God doesn’t necessarily take the whole burden away, letting someone into the mess sure does make it a bit lighter to carry. This is, after all, the main point of Jesus’ ministry—to walk alongside us, to listen and witness, and to take some of the burden of death into his own body so we can rest in the hope that nothing at all can separate us from the love of God that redeems us, sustains us, and assures us that there is nothing we face alone.

Who or what do you turn to in times of being overwhelmed or experiencing stress so that you don’t have to carry it alone? focused breathing

JOURNAL

JOIN A SUPPORT GROUP (NAMI.org)

centering PRAYer TAKE A WALk

GUIDED self-compassion practices (self-compassion.org)

CREATE SOMETHING

TALK TO A TRUSTED FRIEND

SEEK HELP FROM A MENtal health professional

RUNNING or YOGA

AVOID SOCIAL MEDIA

Spiritual DIRECTION WORSHIP

SING A SONG

T’ai chi practice

Father Richard Rohr responds to the question,

“Why was Jesus not afraid?” Jesus seemed to know from an early age that we cannot build on fear. We can build only on life; only life leads to life. Jesus went to the deepest source of life. He gazed long and hard into God’s eyes; there, somehow, but most assuredly, he overcame fear. He did not find assurance that he would “win,” because humanly speaking, he didn’t. And I don’t believe that he found assurance that he was right, either, although we tend to think he knew it all. His only assurance was knowing he spoke only what he had first heard (John 8:28). He handed over the vision that he had seen in God’s eyes: a love that overcomes fear, and offers a terrible, wonderful courage, allowing us to release our life, to let it fall and go where it might. Jesus’s trust was not in himself but in who he knew he was before God. When Jesus preaches, he tells others what he first heard: “Do not be afraid.” He learned that well from his own tradition. Those words were communicated again and again, through God, other people, and in prayer: To Abraham and Sarah, God said, “Do not be afraid.” To Moses, “Do not be afraid.” To Joshua and Gideon, “Do not be afraid.” To Samuel and Hannah, “Do not be afraid.” To Judith, “Do not afraid.” To David, in the prayers of his heart, “Do not be afraid.” To the people of Israel, throughout the prophets again and again, and in every type of cataclysmic situation: “Do not be afraid.” Through Isaiah, “Do not be afraid.” To Joseph, the father of Jesus and husband of Mary, “Do not be afraid.” And, of course, to Mary who said yes, the angel said, “Do not be afraid, Mary.” Why this word over and over again? Because we’re afraid! We’re wrapped and sometimes even trapped in our fear. We want to go beyond it and yet somehow it controls us. We fear what we do not know and do not understand. We fear that what we are afraid of will control us, while we long to control our own lives. Deep down, we long for freedom, but if we want to be free from fear, we must be willing to gaze into God’s eyes as Jesus did. We must be willing to ask the same questions Jesus was asking. It’s not important that we get answers. I don’t think Jesus got that many answers, but we need to be asking the right questions: What is it that we desire? What is it that we’re trying to protect? What is it that we’re afraid is going to overtake us and control us? We can’t attack fear head on. We can’t simply say to ourselves, “Don’t be afraid” because it doesn’t work. It isn’t that simple. We have to go deeper, be curious about where the fear is coming from, and trust God with it.

Daily Meditations: Do Not Be Afraid - Calming our Fears - April 27, 2026: https//cac.org/daily-meditations/calming-our-fears Adapted from Richard Rohr, “Faith or Fear?” The End Time: The Book of Revelation (Credence Cassettes, 1987) Copyright © 2026 by CAC. Used by permission of CAC. All rights reserved worldwide.

Several years ago (when a desktop printer was still a part of our household), I found calm in these words of Jesus so printed them out. Then I found it peaceful to draw, paint, reflect on them, and created this. A mighty oak may be a metaphor for our faith: a small acorn develops into a grand tree with deep roots, incredibly stable and strong—even during storms and times of trauma. Jesus’ words continue to be meaningful for me today. ~Bev Mello

The Center for Action and Contemplation (CAC) offers programs and resources that introduce Christian contemplative wisdom and practices—guiding seekers toward personal transformation and inspiring compassionate action in the world. The CAC is physically located in New Mexico yet they have a wide online presence (cac.org) with daily meditations, including a centering prayer app.

An example of one of Fr. Richard’s Daily Meditations is on the facing page.

Founded by Father Richard Rohr in 1987, CAC’s work is presented in ways that meet people where they are today. Whether through teachings, spiritual practices, or community engagement, the CAC’s goal is to help people live out this wisdom in practical ways—so that they become instruments of love, peacemaking, and positive change in the world.

PASTORAL TRANSITION TEAM

As shared in the summer issue of Compass, in worship, on the website, and in weekly enews—Lord of Life’s Transition Team has been navigating an interactive exploration process to gather information, listen to the needs of our faith community, and complete Lord of Life’s Ministry Site Profile (MSP). The team members and their areas of focus include: Bruce Baldwin (council), Jon Berger (benevolence and service), Susan Burr (adult ministries), Kendra Grand (worship), Deacon Elizabeth Pedersen (staff and outreach), Jeremy Schmidt (Children, Youth & Family), and Interim Lead Pastor David Zellmer (leadership and guidance).

The team hosted a congregational survey as well as in-person meetings earlier this summer and will complete the MSP in the fall. The MSP will be used by the Minneapolis Area Synod to recommend candidates, to inform the call committee in their process, and for prospective pastors to consider in serving our church. Stay tuned via the website, weekly emails, and worship announcements for regular updates. Lord of Life continues to be guided by our synod’s call process, and those specific steps and direction are at lordoflife.org/checklist. In particular, you are encouraged to delve into Checklist 3 Appendices 3A and 3B. Gracious God, guide us in this journey of discernment. May the information gathered

annie-spratt © unsplash+

from our congregation be

used wisely to inform

lordoflife.org/pastoraltransition

the MSP and the call process. May we be open to the future calling of a lead pastor and let us be open to the work of the Holy Spirit within our hearts. In Christ Jesus

we pray, Amen.

COMMUNITY BUILDING CAPITAL CAMPAIGN SURPASSES $1 MILLION by Lord of Life’s Capital Campaign Committee (lordoflife.org/capitalcampaign)

One generation commends your works to another; they tell of your mighty acts. ~Psalm 145:4 We are excited and grateful to share that the Community Building Capital Campaign has now surpassed $1 million in commitments and gifts towards the $4 million goal! This milestone is a testament to the generosity and faith of our congregation. Lord of Life’s vision of enhancing and updating our facilities, eliminating mortgages, and providing additional outreach was formed by the council through conversations with numerous congregation members, ministry leaders, volunteers, and staff. Lord of Life’s Capital Campaign addresses common themes identified throughout these engagements and illustrates where we believe God is leading Lord of Life. When Pastor Joel Wight Hoogheem transitioned to his next call, Lord of Life’s leadership prayerfully decided to continue moving forward with the campaign, but at a slower pace than initially planned. The initiatives we hope to fund through this effort are especially critical now as Lord of Life looks toward the future and eventual calling of a new lead pastor. One of the greatest gifts we can provide to future pastoral leadership is a financially strong and ministry-focused congregation. By addressing facility needs and eliminating debt today, we are helping ensure our future lead pastor can devote more time and energy toward spiritual leadership, discipleship, outreach, and ministry development versus facility challenges or financial constraints. Communication about the campaign will continue throughout the fall, with opportunities for members to volunteer and join others in making financial commitments. Everyone can help by including this effort in your prayers. Pray that Lord of Life can successfully reach the $4 million goal and move forward in faith to its next chapter. As our community of faith moves forward together, may we continue to seek God’s guidance and remain inspired by the words of Scripture: you are built together spiritually into a dwelling place for God. ~Ephesians 2:22 Thank you for your continued prayers, generosity, and unwavering commitment to Lord of Life!

Nice to Meet You! Lord of Life’s summer worship theme focused on diving into the Bible to meet biblical characters such as Jonah, Hannah, Timothy, Lydia and more.

Through the use of nametags, we had the opportunity to meet each other and answer brief inquiries such as “My favorite way to stay cool” shown here. Such fun to participate and so nice to meet you!

FAQs

f requently asked questions on caring connections visiting ministry When did the Caring Connections Visiting Ministry begin?

The Caring Connections Visiting Ministry began in January 2026 with 10 visitors and 10 recipients. Since then, over 70 visits have been a blessing—both for visitors and recipients—and the need is growing!

What is the main purpose of this ministry?

The main purpose of this ministry is friendly connection. It is to combat loneliness and also to provide a supportive presence for those in the Lord of Life congregation who may not venture outside their home.

What is the time commitment and what am I expected to do?

The time commitment is 20-30 minutes, one or two times monthly. Depending on the recipient—maybe you’d play cards or cribbage, enjoy coffee, listen to a story they would like to share. You’d also provide prayer and serve Holy Communion.

Will there be training or some instruction to ensure I will be successful as a visitor?

Yes, you will be given training and instruction—think of what a day brightener you will be in someone’s life!

I would love to match you with a recipient for the Caring Connections Visiting Ministry! Please email me (lisamaried@lordoflife.org) or feel free to call me (763.420.5015 x109). ~Pastor LisaMarie Doerrmann, Care Ministries

Caregiver Support Group Do you fill prescriptions, schedule doctor’s appointments, provide transportation or meals? If so, that means you’re a caregiver. Beginning in September on the second Monday—consider joining the Caregiver Support Group! Visit lordoflife.org/caregiver

CULTIVATING COMMUNITY: MEN’S MINISTRY by Lord of Life member Kent Schmid

Lord of Life has been especially emphasizing the importance of community. As we move through this season of transition and search for a new pastor, this is a meaningful time for us to come together as a church family—to engage with one another, offer support and encouragement, and remember that we are the body of Christ. Lord of Life is our church, and each of us has a role to play in keeping it strong, vibrant, and welcoming. The Men’s Ministry can help strengthen that culture by creating opportunities for men to connect, grow in faith, and support one another in Christian community. April’s community breakfast with speaker Cory Hepola

We invite all the men of our church to get involved. Whether you are looking to build friendships, strengthen your walk with God, grow as a husband, parent, grandparent, or leader, or learn from others who have walked through life’s challenges—there is a place for you here.

Opportunities to Connect + Grow Community Breakfast: The next community breakfast is planned for Saturday, September 12, as part of Lord of Life’s Kickoff Weekend. The guest speaker will be Mayor Mark Steffenson of Maple Grove. People of all genders are welcome. Invite your neighbors to join in and help make this a true community breakfast! Bible Study: Beginning in September, several Bible study options will be offered. Monday evening and Tuesday morning groups will study the parables, while a Friday morning group meets at Perkins in Maple Grove to discuss the readings for that weekend’s services. My wife and I are new to Lord of Life, and I was unsure about attending the men’s retreat this past spring. When I attended the community breakfast, I was encouraged to go to the retreat. That encouragement helped me make up my mind. I am grateful I did attend as I was supported and welcomed, making many new friendships. I am looking forward to being more involved in other men’s ministry events. ~Corey Ganley

Faith and Leadership Program: This fall, the Men’s Ministry will offer a new program for men of all ages who want to deepen their faith, walk more closely with God, and grow as role models and leaders. The program will

lordoflife.org/men

provide practical tools and guidance for knowing God and Jesus more deeply, navigating life’s challenges, and building friendships in a small group setting. It will meet on Sunday evenings giving dads who bring their children to C3 an opportunity to come inside the building and connect with other men. Watch for details on the Lord of Life website. Silent Knights: If you enjoy helping with hands-on projects, Silent Knights supports the Lord of Life community and the broader Maple Grove area through lawn care, handyman repairs, moving assistance, and other service projects. Social Opportunities: Men are invited to join a weekly nine-hole golf outing at Pheasant Acres Golf Course in Corcoran on Thursdays at 4:30pm. This is through the summer and into the fall. “Fellowship with the Fellas” meets on the first and third Tuesdays of each month from 1-2pm at Lord of Life. Come enjoy conversation and connection with a great group of men. Support Groups: Going through a rough patch in your life or know someone who is? Lord of Life has several care groups that may assist those going through life challenges such as divorce, job transition issues, or a cancer diagnosis—visit lordoflife.org/support for details.

In early 2023, I went through a brutal divorce after 30 years of marriage. I met with pastoral staff, and they suggested I start with Men’s Bible Study on Saturday morning, that there was a “decent” group of guys who could help me. This is where my faith journey began. Turning to God and my faith was the greatest thing that ever happened to me, God knew exactly what I needed in my life! Lord of Life’s Men’s Ministry was there for me when I needed it most in my life. Today I have many Christian brothers and sisters who are truly my friends, who would do anything for all of us! I’m so thankful for God and Lord of Life’s Men’s Ministry helping me get through some dark times and to helping me grow in my faith. ~Bill Freeland

If you are looking for greater meaning, stronger faith, or a deeper connection with other men, the Men’s Ministry offers many ways to get involved. Strengthening your faith can help you stay grounded and navigate life’s challenges, and this ministry can provide encouragement, resources, and relationships to support you along the way. Visit the website (lordoflife.org/men) or if you have questions and want to connect directly— call me at (630) 947-6254.

Opt in at lordoflife.org/enews for announcements of men’s events including a spring retreat next year such as this one held in May—join in!

M A K E A J O Y F U L N O I S E I N C H O I R by Worship Leader David Frank

I have been a professional musician for fifty years and I am often asked how I got my start in music. It started in the Hillcrest United Methodist Church children’s choir! I was in third grade and still remember some of the other choir kids and the music that we sang. There I learned to listen to directions (and the other kids!), to increase my attention span, to be comfortable in front of people, and, above all, to experience the joy, love, and peace that came from the words we sang praising God. Being in the children’s choir was a great start to music and a life of faith. After my experience in children’s choir I learned of a boys’ choir that had started (which was an avant-garde thing in those days) and auditioned and got in—I already had choir experience. Lord of Life’s children’s choir is re-forming this fall under the direction of Maria Wilson (at right). Maria is a respected music director in the Osseo school district, and brings infectious joy, high energy, and a sense of fun to everything she does. All children between the age of six and twelve are invited and encouraged to join. No experience is necessary—I had none when I started! Rehearsals are Thursdays, 6-7pm, beginning September 10 (one Thursday off a month). Come join this exciting new venture. The adult choir—the Canticle Choir—is also looking for new members this fall. We rehearse most Wednesdays between 7:15-8:45pm and have at least one Sunday off a month. No audition is required. Canticle Choir Director Maggie Sabin (at right) has introduced a wide variety of exciting pieces, including The Seven Joys of Christmas with a virtuosic woodwind quintet, an Americana Sunday with fiddle and cello, and pieces ny Minnesota composers. Singing in a choir is truly a volunteer opportunity that gives more than it takes. Because we spend time in rehearsal and worshiping together on a regular basis, we become very close and get to experience our church family in a deep and connected way. Singing beautiful lyrics is uplifting and the lyrical flow of the music is healing and has good effects on the body and mind. This flow has been likened to the life-giving flow of water or the flow of milk and honey or the constant flow of love and blessings that God bestows on us if we but say yes. Also, if you wish to sing solos or play an instrument in the more traditional worship services, please contact me. The famous cellist Pablo Casals once said, “The woods would be silent if only the best birds sang. But, in fact, they all sing, and the mornings are filled with their joyful singing, delighting at being alive and excited at the possibilities of a brand new day.” Come join in.

lordoflife.org/worship

Make a Joyful noise to God, all the earth; sing glory of God’s name. -Psalm 66:1

A few years ago I created this zendoodle for my nephew’s son who is a music performance major. All the lines connect, create a pattern, and color brings harmony—just as God has created our earth. We are to be in harmony with everything around us. Music is a universal language, a wonderful way to connect with everyone on earth. ~Lord of Life member Mary Hill

2026 Johanna Delp A phrase that brings me peace and strength is “Live for Today.” This reminds me to stay present in the moment. When I feel moments of fear and anxiety about the future, I need reminders of focusing on the now. When I feel challenged and consider pushing away what makes me feel fear, I need reminders that today is what matters. I don’t want to think of opportunities I missed because I was afraid. Living for today is what keeps me grounded. I enjoy working in youth development. ~Johanna Delp, I was a camp counselor for a Luther College, few summers. It’s challenging yet studying rewarding work! psychology and biology

Providing faith formation in all of Lord of Life’s Children, Youth & Family summer ministries required tremendous teamwork from these awesome interns! From Vacation Bible School to Summer Stretch and more—Lord of Life’s interns are an integral part of programs offered to youth.

Thank you to Mae Tygum and Lela Sabin (back row, left to right) and Johanna Delp, Claudia Ross, and Cadence Grand (front row, left to right) for all their hard work and dedication this summer— best wishes as they return to college this fall! 18

SUMMER INTERNS CADenCE GRAND One of my favorite quotes is “Only, let me be something every blessed minute. And when I sleep, let me dream all the time so that not one little piece of living is ever lost,” from the book, A Tree Grows in Brooklyn, by Betty Smith. I like this quote because it reminds us to cherish each moment in this life God has given us. It reminds us to be grateful for everything we have (even when it’s really hard), and to live in the moment. ~Cadence Grand, University of Minnesota Twin Cities, This is a picture of me playing a show with studying my friends! Music is one of my favorite astrophysics and things because I think it’s a really great physics way to connect with other people and God.

Lela Sabin Faith plays a large role in my life. Growing up in the church, I was a part of various communities—through youth group and choir—and always saw my faith as a basis for love and togetherness. As I got older, I began to learn what having faith meant for me and what it meant to be a follower of Christ. I went to college, joined faith groups and joined Bible studies, and met people who inspire me every day to embrace my faith and all that I have learned through trial and error. My faith journey is full of bumps and turns, though I feel so blessed to be where I am now; I look forward to the ways I will continue to grow. My favorite ever passage in the Bible I love to sing! Since I was three is Psalm 23—it highlights the peace I have been in various choirs and immense blessing that God gives and am currently in a band with and reminds me that if all I have is some of my friends! Music plays God, I have enough. a big role in how I experience ~Lela Sabin, University of Northern faith, interact with others, and Iowa, studying biology and psychology how I express myself.

Claudia Ross It’s such a blessing to be able to do life with God throughout the ups and downs. Although I’m a returning intern at Lord of Life, I still encounter anxiety during parts of the job like meeting new people and planning lessons. As summer winds down and my senior year of college grows closer, anxiety feels inevitable. In those moments, Psalm 139 never fails to bring my heart comfort. I’m grateful to be surrounded by family, friends, and a church community that strives to reflect God’s love and forgiveness. I don’t always handle moments of fear and anxiety the best, but even so God’s unfailing love meets me I love the outdoors and hiking—this there every time. was the San Juan de Gaztelugatxe in ~Claudia Ross, Bethel University, Spain! studying elementary education

MAE TYGUM One of my favorite quotes is “This, too, shall pass.” It follows the same theme as a favorite Bible verse, Proverbs 3:5-6. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” These words remind me that no matter what I am enduring, I may be at peace knowing that God has a plan and purpose. It is okay to struggle through things and to not always know the answer, because God is always guiding me in the right direction. This is me performing in show ~Mae Tygum, University of choir! I love to sing and dance Wisconsin Eau Claire, studying with my friends because it special education and inclusive brings me closer with God. practices

CHILDREN, YOU SUMMER PHO

middle school and high school mission trips

What Did You Do Visit Lord of Life’s social media for oodles more photo fun:

Bible Camp

PLay and

T H & FA M I LY TO ALBUM

Vacation Bible School

This Summer?

and Pray

Facebook: facebook.com/lordoflifelutheran facebook.com/lolcyf

Instagram: instagram.com/lordoflife instagram.com/cyf_lordoflife

SUMMER STRETCH

AN EVENING OF REMEMBRANCE Lord of Life will gather for “An Evening of Remembrance” on November 1 at 7pm. This will be a time when we remember loved ones who have passed into their eternal homes. We will create a sacred space steeped in prayer, music, an invitation for reflection, and a message of hope. Whether you have lost a loved one this past year or longer, you are welcome to receive a powerful experience of God’s love. I hope you will join in. —Pastor LisaMarie Doerrmann

CHURCH SCHOOL and C 3 R E GI S T R A TI O N S Church School and C3 Confirmation ministries require registration every year. Registration is at lordoflife.org/ churchschool and lordoflife.org/c3. C3 (Christ, Community, Confirmation) is Lord of Life’s confirmation ministry, a fun program that helps young people explore and grow in their faith. C3 begins in 7th grade and is completed in the fall of 10th grade. The first morning of Church School will be Sunday, September 13. To ensure timeliness for kiosk check-in that morning, register online today! 22

FALL worship times begin on Kickoff Weekend September 12-13 Saturdays

Sundays

5:30pm

8:30, 9:45, 11am

holy communion every week

holy communion

livestreamed on YouTube

first + third Sundays livestreamed on YouTube childcare available (birth-age two)

For all events, changes,

Last Sundays Contemplative 6:30pm contemplative Taizé worship and healing prayer

t hanks g i v i n g eve worsh i p

recurring ministry events, and announcements, visit lordoflife.org for the most current information.

Give thanks, worship together, enjoy pie

For a list of baptisms, bereavements,

afterwards (more

welcome to new members, and

choices than simply

weddings, visit

pumpkin!)—

lordoflife.org/congregationallife.

join in at 7pm

And, you are invited to join in to Lord of Life’s prayer network, lordoflife.org/prayernetwork, to pray for the community.

on Wednesday, November 25, in the sanctuary. Invite a friend or neighbor to build community!

Lord of Life

NonProfit Org. U. S. Postage

PAID

Loved by God. Sent to Serve.

Hopkins, MN Permit 252

7401 County Road 101 Maple Grove, MN 55311-4313

RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED TIME SENSITIVE INFORMATION

Name Address City, ST 00000-0000

Jesus seemed to know from an early age that we cannot build on fear. We can build only on life; only life leads to life. ~Richard Rohr (Page 9)

Bravery often looks like staying when the easy thing is leaving. ~Dorothy Day

There is no fear in love, but perfect love drives out fear, because fear expects punishment. The person who is afraid has not been made perfect in love. ~1 John 4:18 CEB