A monthly ministry of Lord of Life Lutheran Church of Maple Grove, Minnesota
LifeTIMES Lifelong Learning
by Pastor Donna Rohrer, Adult Education, and the L5 Task Force One month left of summer—most of us are planning as many wonderful adventures as we can before fall and the school year routines begin. We are excited to share the great list of Lifelong Learning at Lord of Life Lutheran (L5) Session 1 opportunities starting on Rally Sunday, September 13. Look inside and find something of interest and come join others in growing your knowledge of scripture and strengthening your faith. One of the interesting things I have heard people say over the years is that they don’t know enough about the Bible to feel comfortable coming to a Bible study ... I always thought you went to a class to learn what you don’t know. There are many different offerings: •
Prayer School
•
Lecture-style classes
•
Discovery if you are rather new
•
Small groups for more in-depth discussions
•
Large group presentations dividing into small groups for discussion
Check out L5 Session 1 offerings on Pages 10-14; join in for future Sessions 2-4 and L5 One-shot Forums as together we grow in Lifelong Learning at Lord of Life Lutheran. God’s power and peace be with you always!
LIFELONG LEARNING AT LORD OF LIFE LUTHERAN
August 2015
LO R D O F LI FE LU T HE R A N C H UR CH (ELCA) 7401 County Road 101, Maple Grove, MN 55311-4313 phone 763.420.5015 fax 763.420.7286 web lordoflife.org Visit lordoflife.org/staff for a full staff listing with photos. prayernetwork@lordoflife.org
worship Saturdays at 5:30 pm with Holy Communion Sundays at 8:30, 9:45 and 11 am with Holy Communion the first and third Sundays Mondays (June-August) at 7 pm with Holy Communion in Samaritan Hall
Lord of Life exists to proclaim the saving grace of Jesus Christ and for its faith community to witness and serve God gratefully in daily life. —Lord of Life’s Global Ends Policy
Healing Service: The next healing service is Saturday, August 15, at 6:30 pm in Lord of Life’s Prayer Chapel. Private healing appointments are also available; please contact Pastor Karen Sue Greimel directly. Third Sunday, August 16, worship at 10 am at Good Samaritan - Ambassador in New Hope
PASTO RA L S TA F F Rev. Peter Geisendorfer-Lindgren, Senior Pastor, peter@lordoflife.org Rev. Sarah Bunge, Pastor, Evangelism/Worship, sarahb@lordoflife.org Rev. Dr. Karen Geisendorfer-Lindgren, Pastor, Adult Ministries, karengl@lordoflife.org Rev. Karen Sue Greimel, Pastor, Pastoral Care, ksgreimel@lordoflife.org Rev. Charles ‘Chick’ Lane, Pastor, Stewardship/Generosity, chickl@lordoflife.org Rev. David McCarty, Pastor, Outreach/Mission, davem@lordoflife.org Rev. Donna Rohrer, Pastor, Adult Education, donnar@lordoflife.org Pastoral Intern Taylor Wilson, taylorw@lordoflife.org
TABLE OF CO N T E N T S Worship Schedule / Worship & Music . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Pages 2-3 Family of Faith . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Pages 4-5 Generosity / Older Wiser Lutherans (OWLs) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Pages 6-7 One Mission One World: Uganda / Mobile Hope at Maple Hill Estates . . .Pages 8-9 Lifelong Learning at Lord of Life Lutheran (L5) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Pages 10-14 Lord of Life Ministries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Pages 15-19
God’s blessings to the youth and adults when they left for the ELCA Youth Gathering in Detroit—we look forward to learning from them how their faith has grown and what experiences they had!
Third Wednesday, August 19, worship at 12:45 pm at Arbor Lakes Senior Living in the 2nd floor community room and at 2:30 pm at Rose Arbor Assisted Living in their red room August 1/2/3 Preaching: Pastoral Intern Taylor Wilson Special Music Saturday: Praise Band Sunday: Soloist Mark Nesse Monday: to be announced August 8/9/10 Preaching: Pastor Sarah Bunge Special Music Saturday: Praise Band Sunday: Soloist Kari Lyn Wampler Monday: to be announced August 15/16/17 Preaching: Pastor Donna Rohrer Special Music Saturday: Praise Band Sunday: The Jack Brass Band Monday: Little Hands Ring and Sing August 22/23/24 Preaching: Pastor Peter Geisendorfer-Lindgren Special Music Saturday: Praise Band Sunday: The OWLs Choir Monday: to be announced
Worship Schedule
August 29/30/31 Preaching: Pastor Dave McCarty Special Music Saturday: Praise Band Sunday: Soloist Perry Springman Monday: to be announced
2 August 2015
Please note worship and music schedules may be subject to change.
August Is Abundant
August is abundant with gifts of God for the people of God! Continuing Lord of Life’s summer worship series, the first weekend Pastoral Intern Taylor Wilson will preach on the gift of perseverance: those who wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength ... Jesus told them a parable about their need to pray always and not lose heart (Isaiah 40:2831, Luke 18:1-8). On August 8/9/10, Pastor Sarah Bunge will preach on the gift of creation: creation itself will be set free ... without Him not one thing came into being (Romans 8:16-25, John 1:1-3). The following weekend, Pastor Donna Rohrer will share the gift of the church: day by day the Lord added to their number ... upon this rock I will build my church (Acts 2:42-47, Matthew 16:13-18). Pastor Peter Geisendorfer-Lindgren will preach on the gift of friends during worship on August 22/23/24: put on compassionate hearts, kindness, humility ... I no longer call you servants, I call you friends (Colossians 3:12-14, John 15:12-15). And for the last weekend of August, Pastor Dave McCarty will speak on the gift of holy baptism: we were baptized into His death ... go and baptize in the name of the Father and the Son and of the Holy Spirit (Romans 6:3-6, Matthew 28:19-20).
special music
Speaking of August gifts, several fabulous soloists will provide special music during worship (see schedule at left). Sunday, August 16, brings back a congregation-favorite, The Jack Brass Band, for all worship services. On Monday, August 17, Lord of Life’s preschool bell choir, Little Hands Ring and Sing, will share special music during evening worship at 7 pm. And coming this fall, there will be new and exciting changes for children’s choirs at Lord of Life! If your child is in K-8th grade, we invite you to come and sing, have fun, and praise God. Watch for more details in the September issue and register at lordoflife.org/joyfulnoise.
Worship & Music August 2015 3
Lord of Life’s
Th
the flower fades
ass withers, r g e
,
Family baptisms June 7 Brody Steven Demontigny Kieran Thomas McManamon Emma June Reed June 13 Gabriel Louis Leier
but the w ver. e r o f ord of our d will stand Go —Isaiah 40:8
opportunity for evangelism A special thank you to Lord of Life members Doug & Kathy Jensen (see Page 20) for sharing with us an opportunity for evangelism. This is an excerpt from an email sent to Pastor Peter: “We have been traveling in our little motor home since March 12 and have missed worshipping at Lord of Life. We have used the opportunity to have a few photos taken reading LifeTIMES in various locations for inclusion on the back page. We discovered asking a stranger to take our photo provides an opportunity to witness to the photographer about our home congregation & our faith. We wanted to let you know it provides an easy opportunity for us to speak about our faith & church—an unexpected outcome & pleasure for us!” Family of Faith
—Doug & Kathy Jensen
4 August 2015
June 14 Axel John Current Zachary Leonard Knotz Kyla Ann Minnich Berit Majel Sheen Michael Thane Treptow Sophia Grace Yale June 20 Keira Joanne Christian Avery Jo Reinking Jack Brannon Stein Madden James Telste June 21 Dylann Katherine Ophoven Logan Gregory Puent Dane Joseph Schuler June 28 Ellie Grace Duchene Talon Jonathan VanOrden Druval Dean Westcott At Lord of Life, we baptize individuals at any age. The next baptism class will be Sunday, August 16, at 11 am. No pregistration is necessary. To schedule a baptism, please call the church office (763.420.5015).
of
Faith bereavements
weddings
Prayers of sympathy for those who are grieving the loss of a loved one; may they be comforted in the promise of the resurrection.
June 6 Jennifer Palmer & Juriad Hughes
Steve Bohnsack and family at the death of his father Sue Coles and family at the death of her mother Dorothy French and family at the death of her mother Jackie Irene and family at the death of her mother Carolynn Kiewatt and family at the death of her father Joey Larson and family at the death of her sister Elizabeth Linders and family at the death of her father Sally Mainquist and family at the death of her father Linda Nordquist and family at the death of her mother Chris Tollefson and family at the death of his step-grandmother Joe Trainor and family at the death of his mother
June 10 Lauren Adams & Keith Boyum June 12 Jennifer Stone & Brad Lynch June 13 Kia Mathsen & Eric Grant June 17 Amy Conlon & Scott Wagner June 20 Rachel Wilson & Joey Tauer Taylor Partridge & Ben Bratland June 27 Lindsay Havlik & Ben Wessels
welcome to new members Abby Arneson Lindsey Brown with Taliah and Jaxson Chris & Jenny Empson with Joe, Nick and Sam Lisa Jacobson Clayton & Charis Jensen Zach & Katie Schneider with Sawyer and Wyatt Dave & Sarah Lund with Emma, Hailey, and Callie
Family of Faith
Membership at Lord of Life means you make a commitment to be an active participant in congregational life. The expectation of not only new members but all members—is to worship regularly, grow in faith, serve others, and support the church and its programs financially. Contact Lori Schwartz or Karen Klevar or visit lordoflife.org/membership for more information. You are invited to become a part of the Lord of Life family of faith.
August 2015 5
Budget Year-to-date June 2015 Actual
Total member contributions All other
$1,520,586 $1,477,738 $135,058
Total receipts
Budget
Difference $42,847
$128,984
$6,074
$1,655,644 $1,606,723
$48,921
Lord of Life Weekly Giving — June 2015 $70,000 $60,000 $50,000 $40,000 $30,000 $20,000 $10,000 0
6/7 6/14 6/21 6/28
Actual $65,271 $52,453 $48,332 $46,008 Budget $58,527 $58,527 $58,527 $58,528
These cards are now available in the sanctuary pew racks and may be used in offering plates, if you desire.
I Give Electronically
by Pastor Chick Lane When you are in worship next, you will see a new addition in the pew rack in front of you. Lord of Life has begun providing I Give Electronically cards. This is an entirely optional way for the many Lord of Life members who give electronically to put something in the offering plate as it is passed along in the pew. The pastors and staff have discussed using these cards for several months. Many other congregations already use something like this. The final impetus for us to begin came several weeks ago during worship. I was sitting with my wife in our ‘usual’ pew. As the offering plates went down a pew behind us I heard a very little voice say, “Why aren’t we putting anything in?” I’m assuming that his or her parents are electronic givers. There are several reasons you might want to use the I Give Electronically cards. You might want to use one to show your children that you are giving, and to explain to them how that happens. You might want to use one as an act of worship—a reminder to yourself that giving generously is a part of your life with God. You might want to use one to encourage people sitting around you to consider using electronic giving, a direct debit from your bank account, as well. Again, this is entirely optional, whether you use a card or not is up to you. Electronic giving through direct debit is an important part of our generous support of Lord of Life. Over one-third of our congregational income is given in this way. If you are interested in more information about electronic giving, or if you would like to sign up for electronic giving via direct debit, visit lordoflife.org/give.
Generosity
Obviously, there are many ways to give to Lord of Life. Direct debit is one. Other people write a check each week. Still others make stock gifts, or write several checks over the course of the year. However you give, thank you. However you give, know that your gifts are making a difference in our congregation, in our community, and around the world.
6 August 2015
Older Wiser Lutherans august
Thursday, August 6: A feel good day for you as you do for others! The OWLs are volunteering at the Lutheran Social Service (LSS) Family Gathering picnic at Minnehaha Park. There will be smiles to give as we help with games and serving food prepared by Rhonda, Lord of Life’s Kitchen Lady. We will travel to the picnic via bus leaving church at 10 am and returning by 3 pm. No cost to you— sunshine and smiles! Thursday, August 13: Join us for the Minnesota Twins playing the Texas Rangers at Target Field. This is the second Thursday of the month. We have seats in the Powerball Pavilion (the same great seats as last year). We will leave at 10:30 am and return around 4:30 pm. Lunch is on your own—your chance to try all the great stadium food. Cost is $30. Registration is closed as the bus is full. If interested, please contact Karen Nelson to be placed on the waiting list. Wednesday, August 19: Worship Service at Arbor Lakes at 12:45 pm and/or Rose Arbor Assisted Living at 2:30 pm. Friday, August 21: LifeTIMES labeling in Fellowship Hall at 9:30 am followed by the OWLs’ choir rehearsal at 10:45 am in the sanctuary. Sunday, August 23: The OWLs Choir sings at all three worship services! No experience is required ... simply a desire to give God thanks and praise!
save the date
Are you older, wiser, or Lutheran? Even if you are not, you are always welcome to OWLs’ activities. This collage shows some recent events. To view more photos & read a synopsis of their escapades—visit lordoflife.org/owls!
Thursday, September 10: Born in Ukraine, graduated from Kiev State University, our guest Victor Branitski came to America in 1975. He taught at Carlton College and the University of Minnesota. We will journey with him as he shares his life, From Soviets to Savior. We begin at noon in Fellowship Hall with a freewill donation lunch. Bring your friends and share in this very special day. Thursday, September 17: Field Trip to Len Busch Roses in Plymouth: This family-owned business began in 1965 in a 28,000 sf greenhouse and today has 15 acres of environment-friendly greenhouses. Len Busch Roses is the only major grower of cut flowers in the central United States. Tour will include 1½ hours of walking. After the tour, we will have lunch on your own at Robert’s in the Medina Entertainment Center. Leave church at 9:30 am and return at 1:30 pm. Cost is $2 for the bus.
Older Wiser Lutherans
See the bulletin board or lordoflife.org/owls for more details of upcoming events. Cancellations due to weather will be on the authority of the event leader and made at least 24 hours in advance when possible; calls will be made to all participants. Questions? Contact Joyce or Gordy Martin directly at grjsmartin@embarqmail. com or 763.497.7355.
August 2015 7
Update on Uganda
by Kent Dirks My most recent trip to Uganda was great as always. You’ve likely seen lots of different organizations that provide clean water to developing countries around the world. Clean water is life itself … but I’ve also come to realize that basic sanitation goes hand-in-hand with clean water in efforts to blot out typhus, cholera, and other diseases. Prior to my trip, our partners in Uganda identified a small village area that was in need of basic sanitation. I put that word out to coworkers and professional contacts and they responded by contributing funds to build a simple latrine. In these photos you’ll see workers and the widow whose land we built the latrine on. May God continue to bless these brothers and sisters in Christ. God’s Work. Our Hands. For more information on One Mission One World: Uganda, visit lordoflife.org/uganda.
marriage encounter weekend
first five
Invest in the Success of Your Marriage
The beginning of every marriage is a time of bonding, compromise, and learning. First Five is a social group that will give a chance for those in their first five years of marriage to come together and make connections with others in a shared situation. Goals of this group include strengthening our marriages and finding new friendships with others who share our faith. Visit lordof life.org/first-five for more information.
October 23-25 at DoubleTree by Hilton (Minneapolis North) in Brooklyn Center, Minnesota
Lord of Life Ministries
Married couples may apply online at godlovesmarriage.org. Questions? Contact Pete & Phyllis McMahon at 763.561.1575 or mcmahonp@ comcast.net. Preregistration is required.
8 August 2015
Life Change at Maple Hill
by Brian Dejewski, Director of Operations, Mobile Hope at Maple Hill Estates Not long ago, some friends from Lord of Life decided to start a weekly coffee hour for adults at Maple Hill. Many of the programs that are available at Mobile Hope are targeting children or youth so this was a new opportunity to reach out to adults. There are a fair amount of shut-ins or seniors who have no transportation and little interaction socially. Offering this kind of event allows for weekly relationship building and discussions about life. Does it make any difference? I’ll let you read the reaction of June, who is one of our seniors, and you can decide… “I’m so glad you started this coffee hour. I tell you, I look forward to this all week. On Wednesdays I get up at 5 am and I just lay there in bed so excited … ‘cause in five hours I get to go to the coffee hour and be with my new friends. I’m so thankful for you and this place. It is such a blessing to me and God really used you.”
How about Marjorie, another woman in her 70s whom I greeted coming into the Hope Center at 6:30 am a few days ago. She had gotten up with the help of her personal care attendant (PCA) to “come figure out what those computers are all about.” This was the first time she was able to use a computer. Then there is a young man who decided to attend our Fellowship of Christian Athletes’ (FCA) Sports Camp a couple of weeks ago. He heard several athletes from the University of Minnesota share about how their faith is the basis for their lives and their athletic success paled in comparison to the importance of Jesus Christ for them. This young man later sat with one of the college students and committed to living as a follower of Jesus. There are so many opportunities and stories like these. Some big and others seemingly minor. Yet every one of them “God-sized.” We are seeing people coming closer to God’s vision for their lives and community. If you would like to be a part of changing lives at Maple Hill this fall, please get in touch with us through our website mobilehopemn.org or contact Polly Trandahl at pollypete@comcast.net.
Lord of Life Ministries
Lord of Life member and Thrivent representative, John Jenneke, presents a $1,115 check to Jill and Brian Dejewski for Mobile Hope. These funds were donations received from the “55 Alive” tournament by 35 golfers and four dinner guests.
August 2015 9
LIFELONG LEARNING AT Session 2
October 18 - November 15 33 The Series–Part 2, Don Clark Baptism Class (Nov. 8), Pastor Sarah Bunge Discover Jesus, Pastor Donna Rohrer Faith & Finances, Pastor Chick Lane Hallelujah!, Pastor Donna Rohrer Prayer School, Cynthia & Larry Pivec, Pastor Karen Sue Greimel Parenting Our Teens, Lord of Life pastors and Elizabeth Pedersen Let Your Light Shine–Part 2, Dottie Sterling with Lisa McCarty
LIFELONG LEARNING AT LORD OF LIFE LUTHERAN
Session 1 Weeks of September 13 - October 11 Sundays 8:30 am
Life and Love, Pastor Donna Rohrer
Discover the Bible, Pastor Donna Rohrer Baptism Class Prayer School, Pastor Karen Sue 11 am (one class Oct. 11), Greimel and Cynthia & Larry Pivec Pastor Sarah Bunge 6 pm Parenting Our Teens, see class description
9:45 am
Juicy Fruit: Living the Spirit Life, Gretchen Peel
Session 3
January 10 - February 7 33 The Series–Part 1, Don Clark Baptism Class (Jan. 10), Pastor Sarah Bunge Bonhoeffer, Mark Tranvik Prayer School, Cynthia & Larry Pivec, Pastor Karen Sue Greimel Parenting Teens Video Series, Kari Lyn Wampler David, Dottie Sterling with Lisa McCarty Timothy/Titus, Pastor Donna Rohrer
Mondays
Life and Love, Pastor Donna Rohrer
7 pm
33 The Series–Part 1, Don Clark
7 pm
Juicy Fruit: Living the Spirit Life, Gretchen Peel
Tuesdays Wednesdays 6:30 pm
Session 4
Parenting Our Teens, see class description
February 14 - March 13
Thursdays 6:30 pm
Let Your Light Shine–Part 1, Dottie Sterling with Lisa McCarty See class descriptions on Page 12; instructor biographies on Pages 13-14. Please register at lordoflife.org/L5.
33 The Series–Part 2, Don Clark Baptism (Mar.), Pastor Sarah Bunge David, Dottie Sterling with Lisa McCarty Parenting Teens Video Series, Kari Lyn Wampler Prayer School, Cynthia & Larry Pivec, Pastor Karen Sue Greimel Road to Coronation, Pastor Donna Rohrer No Experts Here-Fatherhood, Ty Thayer
ONE-SHOT FORUM
Sunday Title November 22 April 3 April 10 April 17
L5
April 24
10 August 2015
2020 and Beyond: Everything you wanted to know about Lord of Life but were afraid to ask Wholehearted Living Why Don’t Young People Come to Church? Christianity in an Age of Religious Diversity What It Means To Be a Member of Lord of Life Forum descriptions and bios will be provided closer to events. No registration is required for L5 forums.
Speaker
Council President Merle Waldron, Pastor Karen Geisendorfer-Lindgren Pastor Karen Sue Greimel Dr. Andy Root Dr. Deanna Thompson Pastor Peter Geisendorfer-Lindgren
LORD OF LIFE LUTHERAN Other Opportunities men’s studies
word for women
Tuesdays, 7 am: Maple Grove’s 3 Squares Restaurant; Luke–Acts
Wednesdays at 9:30 am beginning September 16:
Fridays, 6:30 am: Maple Grove’s Perkins; lessons for Sunday Saturdays, 7:30 am; Lord of Life; Men of Integrity Saturdays, 7:30 am; Lord of Life; 33 The Series–Part 2
•
What are things that God hates?
•
What are some strategies for effective living?
•
Does it really matter if we are humble or proud?
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How can we be wise about our money and resources?
•
What can we learn about wisdom and life from the book of Proverbs?
•
Who is described in the Bible as “wise,” and what can we learn from them?
Pastor Karen Geisendorfer-Lindgren will lead a six-week study on Proverbs. We will engage, reflect, and converse with the counsel we receive from these wise sayings. Child care is available during Word for Women.
small groups Sundays, 7 pm, Adult group meets at Lord of Life Tuesdays, 9:30 am: Women’s group in a member’s home; lessons for Sunday Tuesdays, 10 am: Women’s group in a member’s home; Breaking Free by Beth Moore Thursdays, 7 pm, Adult group meets at Lord of Life
looking to lent We will be doing a congregational study in 2016 on Dietrich Bonhoefer’s book, Life Together. Watch for more details.
Last Wednesday every month, 6:30 pm: 20/30 Vision Young Adult group meets at restaurants in Maple Grove
If you are interested in beginning a small group, contact us for ideas to get started. Karen Nelson, karenn@lordoflife.org Pastor Donna Rohrer, donnar@lordoflife.org
L5
Pastor Karen Geisendorfer-Lindgren, karengl@lordoflife.org
August 2015 11
L SESSION 1 DESCRIPTIONS 5
33 The Series–Part 1 Don Clark Would you like to know what “authentic manhood” is? 33 The Series is a biblically-based study for men who would like to learn to live lives of truth, passion, and purpose following Jesus’ model from his 33 years on earth. This course will give insights on God’s design for manhood. Being in community with other men is an important part of this study; it’s a journey to be taken together. Baptism Class Pastor Sarah Bunge This class is for parents who wish to baptize their child and for adults/youth who wish to be baptized. Call the church office (763.420.5015) to schedule a baptism. Discover the Bible Pastor Donna Rohrer Have you wanted to say yes to helping at Church School or confirmation but were afraid because you knew your Bible knowledge was minimal? Have you wanted to take a Bible study but were afraid because all the other people would know so much and you wouldn’t? Has it been a long time since you really sat down with an open Bible and now don’t even know where to begin again? Join us in Discover the Bible. This class will help you find your way around this number-one selling book. It will give you a timely sense of what happened when to whom and maybe even why. Don’t be afraid—jump right in with us. Juicy Fruit: Living the Spirit Life Gretchen Peel What is the fruit of the Spirit? What does it mean for your life? How do we live the spirit life? We will study passages from the Bible that will help to answer these questions. Together we will read and talk to discover how the spirit life is a product of the Holy Spirit and our human responses. We will leave with a deeper understanding of how the Holy Spirit and our beliefs affect who we are and what we do.
L5 Session 1 Descriptions
Let Your Light Shine–Part I Lisa McCarty and Dottie Sterling This Session 1 L5 course covers the first half of Beth Moore’s, Children of the Day, A Study of 1 & 2 Thessalonians. Beth Moore is fun and funny and has a passion for Christ, a passion for Bible study,
12 August 2015
and a passion to see Christians living the lives Christ intends for them. This class is a DVD-based study covered in two L5 sessions. It is made up of individual study, group discussion, and the weekly lecture by Beth. It is an in-depth study looking at the early church and the New Testament believers as they carried the spirit of God walking along the shores of Thessalonica and how we carry that light today. 1 Thessalonians 5:5 says, “You are all children of the light and children of the day…” While Beth’s studies are written with women in mind, her studies are for anyone who would like to join in. Many men enjoy and benefit from them as well. Workbooks will be available at the first class. Life and Love Pastor Donna Rohrer From: Everything is a waste of time To: Kiss me tenderly, your love is better than wine. Ecclesiastes and Song of Solomon are two books that are very different from the other books of the Bible. In Ecclesiastes we will find a discussion on the meaning of life with a lot of it falling under the category of “this makes no more sense than chasing the wind.” (CEV) In Song of Solomon we read love poems. Two books. Very different topics. Interesting conversation! Parenting Our Teens Lord of Life pastors, Elizabeth Pedersen Lord of Life pastors and Elizabeth Pedersen will share ideas to help parents encourage and support their teens to become faith-filled adults. September 20, 23 topic is Talking About Your Faith with Your Children by Pastor Peter Geisendorfer-Lindgren. September 27, 30 topic is Healthy Self-esteem by Pastor Karen GeisendorferLindgren. October 4, 7 topic is Social Media by Pastoral Intern Taylor Wilson. Prayer School Pastor Karen Sue Greimel, Cynthia & Larry Pivec Prayer is the world’s greatest wireless connection! God is always connected to us, but are we always connected to Him? Prayer is the way we can stay “linked” in close relationship with God. Prayer School is a place for everyone who wants to learn more about how to pray, how to listen and stay connected with God. Each session offers a “God” wink discussion time, a teaching, and then time to apply the teaching. All are welcome and each class and session is different.
L SESSION 1 INSTRUCTORS 5
Pastor Sarah Bunge Baptism Class, Parenting Our Teens Hello! My name is Pastor Sarah Bunge. Since I was a little girl, I always knew that I was supposed to be a pastor. Born a Cheesehead, I spent my childhood in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, my adolescence in Aberdeen, South Dakota, college in Grand Forks, and seminary in Chicago. Since 2006 my husband, Adam, and I have lived in Maple Grove. We are parents of Grace and Luther who both attend Weaver Lake Elementary. In my free time I enjoy camping in my vintage VW bus, jigsaw puzzles, trampoline jumping, seeing live comedy & rock shows, or napping in the sunshine. Don Clark 33 The Series - Part 1 Hello, my name is Don Clark. I have been married to my wife, Carol, for 29 years and have been blessed with three wonderful daughters. I have been enriched by my involvement with C3, Church School, Celebrate Recovery, and adult ministries. In my faith journey, God has blessed me with His love, compassion, strength, forgiveness, and grace. I am excited to continue teaching 33 The Series to the men of Lord of Life. Pastor Karen Geisendorfer-Lindgren Parenting Our Teens, One-shot Forum I have been half of a parenting team for 27 years. Peter and I raised our two kids who made it through the teen years and are now young adults. I have a great empathy and respect for parents who have teenagers, and I look forward to the opportunity to part of a group that will share our collective wisdom, ideas and support with one another. Pastor Peter Geisendorfer-Lindgren Parenting Our Teens, One-shot Forum
My husband and I and our three daughters have been members of Lord of Life for over 19 years. I have served in a number of ministries over the years and graduated from the Masters Institute Seminary with a Masters in Divinity in May 2011. I joined the Lord of Life staff in August 2011 and have been blessed with a strong desire to walk with others through life’s challenges. My passion is for them to grow in their relationship with God. Prayer is one of the most important ways we can know the Lord, His love, healing, strength and will for our lives. It is a privilege and pure joy to pray with others. Pastor Chick Lane Parenting Our Teens My wife, Chris, and I have been members of Lord of Life for three years. I have been one of the pastors of Lord of Life since last August. Prior to that I served at Luther Seminary in St. Paul, and on the ELCA churchwide staff. I am convinced that the power of faith and the power of money are two of the strongest forces in many people’s lives. I am also convinced that we can all grow in our relationship with God when we reflect on how God would have us live with money and when our financial lives are a part of our life with God. Pastor Dave McCarty Parenting Our Teens I’ve been married to my high school sweetheart, Lisa, for 35 years. We have three adult children with a grandchild on the way in October. Originally from a small town in northwestern Wisconsin, we’ve lived in Maple Grove since 1988. I graduated from Luther Seminary, and in addition to the academic training there, served as a chaplain intern (CPE) at Fairview Hospital and have been active in several ministry projects in north Minneapolis and around the world. I was ordained by the ELCA and called to serve at Lord of Life on September 9, 2012. I also have a career in the insurance industry as an executive for a national broker/administrator. At Lord of Life, in addition to a variety of pastoral duties, I support the One Mission One World and 2B REAL Men ministries. —L 5 Session 1 Instructors continue on next page
L5 Session 1 Instructors
I have been a pastor at Lord of Life for 32 years so I should be able to teach a class on being a member of this church. My parenting class skills are more questionable since I am aging quickly and my kids are now wondering when they will have to take care of me.
Pastor Karen Sue Greimel One-shot Forum, Parenting Our Teens, Prayer School
August 2015 13
L SESSION 1 INSTRUCTORS 5
—continues from previous page
Lisa McCarty Let Your Light Shine (co-teaching with Dottie Sterling) My husband, Dave, and I have been married for 35 years. We have three grown children and we will meet our first grandchild in October. I was a stay-at-home mom for many years and I now work part-time with the finance team at Lord of Life. Over the past several years my faith journey has led me to teach Church School and confirmation, attend Bible study fellowship, participate in Word for Women, and several other Bible studies. I attended a Billy Graham conference several years ago that totally changed my life. For the past 16 years God has called me into the mission field which has taken me to 13 different states and three countries with both adult and youth teams. Through each opportunity, God has continued to refine my faith and has shown me His great love, compassion, mercy, and grace in countless ways. Elizabeth Pedersen Parenting Our Teens I have served Lord of Life’s senior high ministry since 2009. My husband, John, is also in youth ministry, so we have hectic summer schedules. My passion is sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ with the young people of Lord of Life on summer mission trips. These experiences serve others, build community and strengthen the faith of all participants.
L5 Session 1 Instructors
Gretchen Peel Juicy Fruit: Living the Spirit Life
14 August 2015
I have been a Lord of Life member since 1978. My husband and I have two adult children, a son-in-law, a grandson, Miles, who was born in June, and a dachshund named Moe. I am semi-retired, after 40+ years as a teacher and administrator in the Osseo School District, including 18 years as an elementary school principal. My retirement goals include building a deeper faith and a stronger relationship with God. My action plan included taking L5 classes. I met wonderful people, learned and laughed a lot, and made progress on those goals. Now I have been called (literally) to share the L5 experience with others. With God’s guidance, we will learn, laugh, and grow together.
Larry & Cynthia Pivec Prayer School We feel blessed in marriage and by our wonderful daughter, Lindsay. We have been members of Lord of Life for many years and have been involved with the Prayer School since the first year of L5. Together we have taken many classes on prayer over the past 8 years and every time, we walk away desiring an even closer connection to God. We look forward to sharing our passion for God and prayer with others who wish to know God more fully. Individually, Cynthia has been involved in a supportive role and now as a teacher, inspired by the way participants have grown in their relationship with each other and with God. For Larry, God got his attention (a burning bush type of encounter) and ever since then Larry has longed to know who this amazing God is and why He cares for someone like him. Pastor Donna Rohrer Discover the Bible, Life and Love, Parenting Our Teens I love the Lord! I love life! I love teaching! I love to laugh! And I love Lord of Life’s L5! I am so blessed to be able to share insights into the scripture in these classes. In 2015, it will be 20 years of me being an ordained pastor. What an honor that the Spirit keeps finding ways for me to tell, sing, share, and show others that Jesus loves me, this I know, for the Bible tells me so. Dottie Sterling Let Your Light Shine (co-teaching with Lisa McCarty) I am blessed to be called wife, mom to three (now six with their partners), Mimi to eight, and child of God—but my public name is Dottie Sterling. My husband, Warren, and I returned to Minnesota to be near family and joined Lord of Life two years ago. Formerly I was a teacher and counselor at the elementary level. I thrive best when I am in God’s holy Word and I love sharing this passion with others. I love the Lord and my family, friends, and being with people, and trying to find humor in everything.
LifeGARDEN
by Bob Zappa Lord of Life’s community garden looks fantastic. Recently about 30 kids with Summer Stretch worked in the garden pulling weeds from various crops. We’ve also had a few good rains and the turnout for work sessions has been great. Many vegetables including beets, cabbage, radishes, zuchinni, and onions have already been harvested and given to the CROSS foodshelf. LifeGARDEN has been blessed to receive a brand new Toro lawnmower. The money to purchase it came from the Warren Mohrenweiser family—our sincere thanks goes to them.
Celebrate Recovery
We are all “one of those people.” We all struggle with some type of life issue. It may be depression, dealing with adult children, aging parents, teens, divorce, loneliness, anger and yes, even an addiction. The good news is that you do not have to go it alone! Celebrate Recovery is for everyone—just ask Pastor Karen Sue! Celebrate Recovery follows the 12 Steps and is supported very closely by scripture. While many people come to Celebrate Recovery to “fix someone,” they become pleasantly pleased how their faith life grows stronger and that their focus is on themselves, rather than the other person. While we can’t fix anyone else, we can become stronger in mind and spirit.
...from Lisa Gerber’s LifeGARDEN with Mo Orendorff’s clay pot painting!
All in all, the garden is looking great. Thanks to everyone for their work!
24-hour Golf Fundraiser
friday, august 7, midnight-to-midnight It started out as a wild idea of something fun to do among four golfing buddies. Five years later, it continues to be a fun and very meaningful annual fundraiser. Led by Lord of Life member Curt Groebner, the foursome includes other members Evan Bojar and Ross Miller as well as Alex Cole. At Riverwood National and Vintage Golf Courses, they will channel enthusiasm and physical endurance into a 24-hour golf outing. This year their charity of choice is the Lung Cancer Alliance.
Now is a great time for Celebrate Recovery which meets every Tuesday, with an optional dinner from 5:45-6:30 pm and programming beginning at 6:30 pm. Childcare is provided.
Cancer Support
If you have been diagnosed with cancer, find a listening ear through Lord of Life’s men’s and women’s cancer support groups. These groups meet at Lord of Life on the first Monday of each month beginning at 7 pm. Whether in remission or For more information on Celebrate Recovery and the cancer support ministries, or if you have questions about them, please contact Michelle Welinski at michellew@lordoflife.org or 763.420.5015 x118.
Lord of Life Ministries
Why play 24 continuous hours of golf? Curt shares, “It began as something fun and then for motivation we added in a charity. It was amazing how supportive our family and friends were and how we could make a difference towards a good cause.” Daylight hours will be played at Riverwood and the night golf at Vintage. Using glowballs in the dark, they flash a red light for five minutes. Curt says, “They get the job done, but it’s still tough out there driving around in the dark trying to see what you’re doing. Lots of flashlights are also used.” The group expects to complete more than 100 holes throughout the day. Fore! To contribute to Curt & company’s 24-hour golf fundraiser, visit firstgiving.com/fundraiser/alldaygolf/15. August 2015
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Bonfire
All middle school and high school youth are welcome to come hang out in the church backyard for a bonfire, games, friends, snacks, and fun. We’ll meet from 7-9 pm. See you there! Monday, August 3
Summer C3 & Sr. High—
Volunteer Opportunity Want to volunteer this summer? We’ve got one more opportunity for you to serve God and others at Lord of Life! VBS Week 3:
August 3-6
Sign up online at lordoflife.org/summer!
Peer Ministry
Peer Ministry Training will be on Monday, August 24, 11 am–5 pm. Peer Ministry is a great course designed to equip our senior high youth to be better leaders, listeners and friends. It is required for all senior high youth who want to lead C3 or Summer Stretch. See Elizabeth if questions!
C3 Leader Training Night This is our first training of the year and it’ll be a little bit longer so we can go over logistics, small groups, curriculum, retreats, and much much more. Please make plans to attend. Questions? See Raul or Clancy! Wednesday, September 9 5:30–8 pm in the Luther Room (includes dinner)
Lord of Life Ministries
JR. High Mission 2015
16 August 2015
Club 56
Calling all 5th and 6th graders! Join in for the last Club 56 summer event from 9 am-5 pm; cost is $30. August 18: Cascade Bay Water Park Sign up online at lordoflife.org/club56!
vacation bible school (vbs)
God’s Work. Our Hands. For her 12th birthday celebration, Allie asked friends to bring supplies to create grab-and-go bags for Hope Lodge. The girls had a great time putting them together and it started table conversation about how difficult it is for someone who is going through cancer treatment. We hope these bags were a little ray of sunshine when received.
Still a little time to register for VBS for children entering 1st-6th grade for August 3-6. Our theme this year is A Love that Never Ends! Families join us for Root Beer Float Night on the last day of VBS, with counselors and VBSers sharing skits and songs. We need help hosting counselors. Contact Julie Wilson (juliew@lordoflife.org) if you can help!
—Stephanie Beyer
looking ahead in children, youth & family august August (all month): August 1: August 3-6: August 18: August 24:
september
September 9: September 12-13: September 13: September 13 & 16: September 15: September 20:
october
October 2: October 3-4: October 10-11: October 10-11: October 14: October 15: October 24-25: October 24-25:
Registration is open for Church School / C3 Kalahari Family Retreat Registration Opens Vacation Bible School Week 3 Club 56 to Cascade Bay Water Park Peer Ministry Training
C Small Group Leader Training Rally Weekend/Church School Begins 7th Grade Festival C3 Begins After School Program Begins (Grades 1-5) Ecclesia, Explore, Express Begin 3
Led by Pastor Sarah Bunge, Lord of Life made it happen in the parade for Maple Grove Days ...
Parent Night Out (Birth-5th Grade) 7th Grade Retreat 8th Grade Retreat 3rd Grade Bible Learning Event Middle School Service and Movie Night Release Day (Grades 1-5) Third Grade Bibles Affirmation of Baptism
... and a big shout out to Tom & Sue Wilson for an awesome bed race entry!
Lord of Life Ministries August 2015 17
Karing Kingdom is full for the 2015-16 school year. As a reminder to parents, enrollment packets were due on July 29. We are looking forward to the school year beginning the week of September 8. Thank you!
god’s global barnyard All summer during Vacation Bible School, children have been learning about the animal project of the ELCA Good Gifts program and filling piggy banks to help families in need. They have collected enough money to buy a cow, a goat, a pig, fish, honey bees, sheep and chicks. And the banks are still coming in! These animals not only produce food, sale of offspring and animal products can help a family buy school supplies, pay for tuition, and afford medical care. It’s not too late to contribute to this project. Collection runs through August 16. Learn more at elca.org/goodgifts and visit the display near the main office for information and donation envelopes.
Lord of Life Ministries
Little Hands Ring and Sing participants made more than beautiful music this summer! Under Penny Meschke’s direction, they were potters who made fun clay creations. This preschool child & adult bell choir meets Mondays, 6-6:45 pm and Tuesdays, 10:3011:15 am. No registration or fee is required. They will perform special music during Monday worship on August 17 at 7 pm. Visit lordoflife.org/littlehands.
18 August 2015
registration open 2015-16 Church School runs concurrently with worship services on Saturdays at 5:30 pm and Sundays at 8:30, 9:45 and 11 am. It is available for 2 year olds through 6th grade. Each week, children experience a different Bible story through active large group teachings and relational small group time. The same lessons are used in Church School and worship. C3 (Christ, Confirmation, Community): all junior high youth, new and returning C3ers, need to register each year. C3 is offered Sundays at 5 pm (7th & 8th graders only) and 6 pm with a family meal from 5:306:30 pm -or- Wednesdays at 4:30 and 6:30 pm with a family meal from 5-6 pm.
Again this summer, enjoy a relaxing evening in Lord of Life’s backyard—
t r e c n o C r e ! s d m n e i r m u and F
Swith Taylor Wilson
If you enjoy live music, free treats, and summer outdoor fellowship around a fire, then we’ve got just the event for you! Pastoral Intern Taylor Wilson and members of Lord of Life will be performing original acoustic music (and a few familiar cover songs!) while you enjoy a relaxing evening around the bonfire ring on Wednesday, August 19, 7-8:30 pm. All ages are welcome. Rain or shine! If inclement weather, the concert will move indoors.
2014
Bring a lawn chair & a friend— we’ll provide the s’mores, good times, and great tunes! Lord of Life Ministries August 2015
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LO R D O F L I F E L U T H E RA N CHU R CH (E LCA ) 7401 County Road 101, Maple Grove, MN 55311-4313 phone 763.420.5015 fax 763.420.7286 web lordoflife.org
Nonprofit US Postage Paid Maple Grove, MN Permit #14
LifeTIMES is a monthly ministry of Lord of Life Lutheran Church printed by Wallace Carlson Printing using ecofriendly inks. To receive LifeTIMES in the mail or electronically—call 763.420.5015 or stop in the church office or email office@lordoflife.org with your name & address. We invite you to share faith stories, Lord of Life ministry events, photos, poetry & artwork. Submissions may be edited. Deadline for the September issue is August 1. Copyright © 2015 Lord of Life Lutheran Church
RE T U RN SE RVICE RE Q U E ST ED
caught reading lifetimes Warren & Dottie Sterling and grandchildren are caught reading LifeTIMES on the Maryland coast
Doug & Kathy Jensen while returning on the Black Ball ferry from Victoria on Vancouver Island, British Columbia to Port Angeles, Washington
...and we like to use
LifeTIMES for evangelism! (see Page 4)
20 August 2015
God’s Work. Our Hands. While in Rockford, Illinois, for their mission trip, these junior highers were caught reading LifeTIMES with Martin Luther’s supervision— visit lordoflife.org/lifetimes on your mobile device!