December2014

A monthly ministry of Lord of Life Lutheran Church of Maple Grove, Minnesota

LifeTIMES

December 2014

Gloria!

There are very few words that cause you to sing when you read them, but gloria is one.

We sing the Gloria or Glory to God each week in our Lutheran liturgy. We sing Gloria in Excelsis Deo, Glory to God in the highest, in the great Christmas hymn, Angels We Have Heard on High. Gloria rolls off your tongue and brings a smile to your face. And gloria goes much deeper because it announces the best gift ever: Jesus.

Gloria is Latin for glory and is a prevalent word in Scripture. It means magnificence, brilliance, exaltation, beauty, wonder, and majesty. In the Old Testament, God’s glory is so powerful that people were afraid to be in its presence. In the New Testament, gloria is the song of the angels in the Christmas story. In Luke 2, we read: an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid; for see, I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people.’ God’s glory is seen most perfectly when God’s own Son enters the world on that first Christmas.

Gloria brings joy to our hearts and that’s why it is going to be the theme for December. You will hear gloria in the daily December devotionals (lordoflife.org/decdevotions).

The first musical proclamation will be made by over 50 of Lord of Life’s children in the Advent-themed musical, The Light Before Christmas. Directed by David Frank, the performance is on Sunday, December 7, at 5 pm followed by a family-friendly dinner. Come celebrate Advent’s joyful anticipation of Christ’s birth and learn about the five candles of the Advent wreath.

At all worship services on December 13/14, Gloria! will feature Canticle Choir with orchestra and Bel Canto directed by Lee Fuchs with Joyful Noise directed by Dana Brinton. Come enjoy this musical celebration and hear the meaning of Gloria in Excelsis Deo!

The weekend of December 20/21, all church school children age 3-6th grade will come share ‘gloria’ voices in song at all worship services which will include a short children’s sermon.

Christmas Eve on Wednesday, December 24, will celebrate the glory which the shepherds experienced at the birth of our Savior. Worship at 11 am and 1, 2:30, 4, 5:30 pm with a children’s sermon, and 8, 9:30, and 11 pm with candlelight.

All services are with Holy Communion and special music details are shared in the worship schedule on Page 2.

On Christmas Day, Thursday, December 25, a service of Holy Communion at 9:45 am will continue the celebration of the newborn King.

Come experience the glory of God this December at Lord of Life singing with the angels and a multitude of the heavenly host: Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace among those whom He favors! Luke 2:14

December 2014

“For me to live is Christ”

Philippians 1:21a

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 WEB lordoflife.org PHONE 763.420.5015 FAX 763.420.7286 ADDRESS 7401 County Road 101, Maple Grove, MN 55311-4313 Visit lordoflife.org/lolstaff for a full staff listing with photos.

PRAYER NETWORK prayernetwork@lordoflife.org FACEBOOK facebook.com/lordoflifelutheran

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 PASTORAL STAFF 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, L5/Adult Bible Study, donnar@lordoflife.org Pastoral Intern Taylor Wilson, taylorw@lordoflife.org

TABLE OF CONTENTS Worship Schedule / Pastor’s Message........................................................Pages 2-3 Lord of Life Lives Christ Together...............................................................Pages 4-5 L5 Session 3 Classes / December Forum.....................................................Page 6-7 Generosity............................................................................................................. Page 8 Lord of Life Ministries..................................................................................Pages 9-14 Karing Kingdom Preschool.............................................................................. Page 15 Caught Reading LifeTIMES............................................................................... Page 16

Over 125 third graders received brand new Bibles on Reformation Weekend at the end of October—more photos on Page 14 and at facebook.com/lordoflifelutheran.

Sunday evening is Ecclesia worship at 7 pm Wednesday, December 17, worship service 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 Third Sunday worship on December 21 at 10 am at Ambassador - Good Samaritan Society in New Hope Healing Service - The next healing service will be on Saturday, January 24 directly after the 5:30 pm worship service.

December 6/7 Preaching: Pastor Peter Geisendorfer-Lindgren Special Music Saturday: Praise Band Sunday: Joyful Noise (8:30 am), Canticle Choir and Bel Canto (9:45 and 11 am) December 13/14 Special Music - Gloria! - See cover December 20/21 Preaching: Pastor Karen Geisendorfer-Lindgren Special Music Saturday: Praise Band Sunday: New Life Ensemble Wednesday, December 24, Christmas Eve Preaching: Pastor Peter Geisendorfer-Lindgren Special Music 11 am: Soloist Amy Cerepak 1 and 2:30 pm: Joyful Noise with Dana Brinton 4 and 5:30 pm: Soloist Kelly Jordahl 8 pm: Soloist Lee Fuchs 9:30 and 11 pm: Canticle Choir Services at 11 am, 1, 2:30, 4, and 5:30 pm include a children’s sermon; services at 8, 9:30, and 11 pm feature candlelight. All services with Holy Communion.

Thursday, December 25, Christmas Day Preaching at 9:45 am: Pastor Karen Sue Greimel Special Music - Soloist Val Lari

Table of Contents / Worship schedule

Bunge Family Stable Christmas Worship at 4 pm (More information on Page 14)

2 December 2014 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a

December 27/28 Preaching: Pastor Dave McCarty Special Music Saturday: Praise Band Sunday: Brava! Women’s Chorus Please note worship and music schedules may be subject to change.

Be still and know that I am God. Psalm 46:10

The Quiet

by Pastor Karen Sue Greimel You can’t help but hear the Christmas songs on every radio station, TV commercials advertising the biggest, brightest and best gifts, Salvation Army bells ringing at shopping malls, and merriment at social gatherings. Yet, these are only a few of the sounds of Christmas.

What do you hear at Christmas?

Listening requires a cessation of speech; a silencing of not only sound, but also the tirade of thoughts in our minds. The ‘noise’ is especially heightened during the busyness of the Christmas season. We are in high gear, planning, shopping, and celebrating.

But what are you hearing?

Most often what happens in our physical life almost always overtakes our spiritual life. We can pray later—after we get the things on our to-do list checked off. We can recommit to studying our Bible—after the holidays when we have more time. If we can just make it through the holidays—then.

Throughout the years I have learned much from my children and marvel at the blessing of their wisdom. One Christmas stands out in my mind. My attitude was truly that of, “If I can just make it through Christmas.” I had been wrapping gifts in the basement. It was very late and I thought everyone was in bed. I came upstairs to find Hanna, who was about 8 years old at the time, in her pajamas sitting by the Christmas tree in the dark with only the tree lights on. It was a precious sight.

I asked her what she was doing and she said, “I am listening.” Not hearing anything, I asked her what she was listening to. She said, “The quiet.” Until that day I had never equated Christmas with quiet.

What a wonderful birthday gift we can give our Lord and Savior … to be still and know that He is God, to celebrate His gift of Jesus.

“For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him may not perish but may have eternal life. Indeed, God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through Him.”

This Christmas make the time to listen to the quiet…

—Pastor Karen Sue Pastor’s Message “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a December 2014 3

Lord of Life weddings October 11 Jessica Wallace & Nikolas Broschofsky Cassie Samuelson & Matthew Zwiebel

bereavements

baptisms At Lord of Life, we baptize individuals at any age. The next baptism class is Saturday, December 13, from 10-11 am; no pregistration is necessary. To schedule a baptism, please call the church office (763.420.5015).

October 5

Carson Todd Swanson

Carlie Loren Swanson

Case Beckett Fornasiere

Kira Jo Trboyevich October 11

Myles Joseph Bittle

Naia Maria Sanchis

Julian James Sanchis

Adelia Marie Koenck October 12

Louis Raymond LeClair

Connor Lee Bronczyk

Cecilia Ryan Miller

Emma Colleen Sehr

Abigail Marie Viscasillas

Lord of Life Lives Christ Together

October18

Anna Rae Brazier October 19

Elsa Karen Grossman

George Lee Hopkins

Owen Allen Johnson

Aubriana Jay Field

4 December 2014 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a

Prayers of sympathy for those who are grieving the loss of a loved one; may they be comforted in the promise of the resurrection.

Barb Bury and family at the death of her father Lucia Chisato-Rodvik and family at the death of her nephew Gwendolyn Cowle and family at the death of her mother Mike and Sandy Desens and family at the death of her mother Gary Gardner and family at the death of his wife

October 18 Kyle Vaaler & Kevin Rahne

welcome new members Mike & Rita Albert Bruce & Diane Anderson Jamie & Beth Bjerke with Blake and Carter Corey & Brittni Bronczyk with Connor Tony & Anne Donahue with Audrey and Easton Dan & Jen Hahn with Dani, Dylan, and Joei Betty Kerber CJ & Jen Kuhn with Hannah and Jack

Tracey Kubitz and family at the death of her mother

Marilyn Leonard

Sharon McDonald and family at the death of her husband

Louise Smith

Sheri McDonald and family at the death of her mother Cindy Miller-Guadagno and family at the death of her mother Nick & Margaret Nicklow with Erin and family at the death of their son/ brother Rollie Renstrom and family at the death of his mother

Dave & Jen Mays with Madison 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 & its programs financially. Contact Lori Schwartz or Karen Klevar or visit lordoflife.org/newmembers for more information. You are invited to become a part of the Lord of Life family of faith.

Lives Christ Together Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.

Matthew 5:4

by Pastor Karen Sue Greimel, Pastoral Care My father passed away unexpectedly in early December of 2003. Needless to say that Christmas was excruciatingly painful. For those experiencing a loss, November through December is a difficult time. Thankfully there are a few things that might help to take the sting away.

Accept Lower Socialize Trimming Get up and move

the difficulty of this time of year and your loss. Remind yourself that it’s a season and it will pass. expectations – movies and songs paint an unrealistic picture of the holidays.

– Don’t hibernate. Insecure feelings may tempt you to isolate, but force yourself to go out even if it’s only for a short time.

– Don’t hang up ornaments that are associated with memories which cause too much pain. Put them aside for next year.

– Take care of your physical being. Healthy foods will give you strength. Fattening foods and sugar-filled foods can worsen your depression.

Exercise produces natural stress reducers.

Set boundaries

– Specifically explain to your family and friends what you are capable of doing this year, and what you are not. Don’t let others guilt you into taking on more than you can handle.

Grief Share is a safe place for you to walk through this time in your life. You will learn healthy ways to navigate through and live with grief. You are invited for dinner every Tuesday at 5:456:30 pm with our Celebrate Recovery friends and/or meet with the Grief Share small group from 6:30-8:30 pm.

For more information, please contact Pastor Karen Sue at 763.420.5015 x144 or ksgreimel@lordoflife.org or Michelle Welinski at 763.420.5015 x118 or michellew@lordoflife.org.

Lord of Life Lives Christ Together

Merry Christmas

“For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a December 2014 5

ONE-SHOT FORUM

Sunday, December 7

Identical Sessions at 9:45 and 11 am

’Tis the Season

by Jane Bergstrom Support Lord of Life’s missions and ministries by shopping at the Bake and Craft Sale. Sweets, treats, and gifts will be available before, during, and after services on December 13/14. For information on donating items or fundraising for your ministry or mission trip, contact Connie Luebke at leeconlub@comcast.net. ..and remember Lord of Life’s Reflections of Faith is also a wonderful resource for faith-filled and unique Christmas gift ideas!

Christmas Events / L5 December Forum

Joy of Giving

by Karen Nelson The word joy means “great happiness.” God wants us to give, with great happiness, to those who have less. The fourth annual Joy of Giving will begin on November 29 at Lord of Life. We are so grateful for the generous gifts from our congregation each year which support the many ministries and missions. Gift choices this year will be in $5, $10, and $25 increments— a great way to say thank you to teachers or give a gift in honor or memory of someone. You may choose from a variety of ministries and their needs. Plan to stop in Fellowship Hall by the bulletin board tables.

Friendly ministry leaders will be happy to answer questions and help you decide if needed. Thank you! For more information, visit lordoflife/joyofgiving.

6 December 2014 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a

Authority of the Scripture Dr. Walter Sundberg How do we understand the authority of scripture today? How do we discern what plain teaching is? This forum will seek to explain the approach to scripture that the Lutheran church has taught over the centuries.

There is no registration required for L5 forums. To register for Session 3 classes, visit lordoflife. org/L5 or pick up more details and a registration form at church in the main hallway at the L5 bulletin board.

We are happy to be able to offer L5 classes and forums free of charge.

Individual classes may be using books that will be available for purchase by participants.

L5 Class Descriptions

Session 3 - Week of January 11-Week of February 8

LIFE LONG LEARNING AT LORD OF LIFE

SUNDAY 8:30 am Wiser Women: God’s Power in Second Half “U” (all new!), Joan Freeberg WOMEN OF A CERTAIN AGE - There is so much to learn about God’s power in this exciting new frontier of life! God’s creative activity in the world allows us to live longer and healthier lives. In this class we will examine what it means to be part of the new movement to redefine age as potential for carrying out God’s mission in the world. How is God calling you in the second half of life?

8:30 am Holy Spirit in the New Testament, Pastor Donna Rohrer We talk about the Holy Spirit as part of the Triune God. But not very much.

Using the New Testament, the creeds, and other helps—let’s find out how important the Spirit is in our lives.

9:45 am The Compassionate Christ in the Gospel of Luke - 1 Pastor Donna Rohrer We will listen to the words of Luke as we travel with Jesus to Jerusalem.

The Jesus Luke shares with us is the person who prefers to be with the underdogs, outcasts, and regular people like us. The stories and parables show that Luke sees the joy Jesus finds with us. Come and share in the joy! This class continues into Session 4.

9:45 am Quiet Time—Getting to Know God More Intimately, Sheryl Britsch We spend time with family and friends to develop and deepen those relationships. How do we build a relationship with God? Scripture says that Jesus would often withdraw to a quiet place to have time with the Father. This class will explore what quiet time is, various ways to approach it, and benefits from spending time with God and getting to know him more intimately.

11 am Prayer School, Pastor Karen Sue Greimel with Larry & Cynthia Pivec Have you ever thought God was outside your network? Do you find yourself asking God, “Can you hear me now?” If you want to change your “prayer plan” and get a better connection, have we got a plan for you! Prayer School offers a hands-on class for everyone who desires to know God better and hear Him more clearly. Come for one 5-week session or as many sessions as you’d like, as all of the classes will be different.

11 am Adult Confirmation/Lutheranism 1, Pastor Karen Geisendorfer-Lindgren and Ina Barton Adult Confirmation/Lutheranism is a 10-week course to learn more about being a Lutheran and make public affirmation of your faith. Those who are confirmed may take this course as a review of Lutheranism. There will be a Thursday evening mini-retreat and a Saturday evening Affirmation of Baptism service. We will study the Small Catechism, including the Lord’s Prayer, Apostles’ Creed and Ten Commandments. We will review the sacraments of Holy Communion and Holy Baptism and learn why Lutherans do what they do.

6 pm Parenting Teens 1, Karen Nelson The Parenting Teens class is specifically designed for those parenting 11-18 year olds. The 10-week class will be a mixture of video and conversation focused on equipping teens for life by looking at: Keeping the End in Mind; Meeting our Teenager’s Needs; Setting Boundaries; Developing Emotional Health; and Helping Teens Make Good Choices. Great responses from everyone who took this class previously; very helpful video and conversation.

MONDAY AT 7 PM The Compassionate Christ in the Gospel of Luke - 1, Pastor Donna Rohrer We will listen to the words of Luke as we travel with Jesus to Jerusalem. The Jesus Luke shares with us is the person who prefers to be with the underdogs, outcasts, and regular people like us. The stories and parables show that Luke sees the joy Jesus finds with us.

Come and share in the joy! This class continues into Session 4

Body & Soul Yoga, Audrey Johnson Come and enjoy an hour of yoga! One of the best gifts you can give God and others is to be the best you can be; body and soul. We will focus on breathing, stretching, holding poses, core and relaxation. We will use our breath to come within, letting go of judgment and competition of ourselves and others, stretching to accept where we are and what we can do, holding poses to parallel the tough things in life and through all, reminding us that God will help us. We will also offer prayer in our movements; taking time to be still.

TUESDAY AT 6:45 PM Wiser Women: God’s Power in Second Half “U” (all new!), Joan Freeberg WOMEN OF A CERTAIN AGE - There is so much to learn about God’s power in this exciting new frontier of life! God’s creative activity in the world allows us to live longer and healthier lives. In this class we will examine what it means to be part of the new movement to redefine age as potential for carrying out God’s mission in the world.

How is God calling you in the second half of life?

8:30 am Holy Spirit in the New Testament, Pastor Donna Rohrer We talk about the Holy Spirit as part of the Triune God. But not very much. Using the New Testament, the creeds, and other helps—let’s find out how important the Spirit is in our lives.

WEDNESDAY AT 6:30 PM

L5 Session 3 Classes

Made to Crave, Michelle Welinski “All God’s girls have issues. All of us. Every single one of us. We haul around a bucketload of issues. There are painfully thin women weighted down spiritually and emotionally by feelings of defeat the same as women many sizes larger than them.” Join the discussion on Made to Crave, written by Lysa Terkeurst, as we learn about ourselves and our need for additional spiritual empowerment. There is a spiritual battle going on in our lives. When tempted by food choices, learn to draw on scripture to fill those longings. Food was never meant to fulfill the deepest places of our hearts reserved for God alone. This is not a ‘diet discussion’ rather a spiritual growth journey. Each week we will watch a video clip, and talk about the chapters we read during the week and share personal insights. The book will be available for purchase in Reflections of Faith as well as the optional study guide.

“For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a December 2014 7

october 2014 budget year-to-date Actual

Total member contributions All other

Budget

$2,345,527 $2,382,696 $210,949

Total receipts

Difference ($37,169)

$199,431

$11,518

$2,556,476 $2,582,127

($25,651)

Make A Difference

by Pastor Chick Lane It is December. If you are like me, you are asking yourself, “Where did the year go?” You also may be wondering how in the world you are going to get all the gifts purchased, and how you are going to get everything done that needs to be done by the end of the year.

Another aspect of December for many households is end-of-year giving. Many of us use the approaching end of the year as a time to support worthwhile causes that are near and dear to our hearts. Somehow, this season of celebrating God’s greatest gift to us makes people want to do some gift-giving themselves. At our house we usually support a few charities that help people in need, and a civic organization or two.

As you consider your end-of-year giving, I’d invite you to consider a special gift to Lord of Life. Our congregation does amazing things in the lives of people inside our walls, in the community, and around the world. Just this fall, we recognized a few important outreach ministries on “One Mission One World” weekend in September. We celebrated with 160 of our youth as they confirmed their faith in October. We continued our long partnership with Feed My Starving Children. The list goes on and on.

In the coming days, you will receive a letter from Pastor Peter, and an envelope to use for a yearend gift to Lord of Life. You can know that your gift will make a difference in Jesus’ name in our community and in our world. Please join me in making a generous gift.

—Pastor Chick

Feed My Starving Children

Lord of Life Weekly Giving — October 2014 $80,000

Lord of Life has provided a full shipping container of Feed My Starving Children (FMSC) nourishing food. It will reach the shores of Jamaica in time for One Mission One World: Jamaica missionaries to deliver food to orphaned children at 14 different sites. Thank you to all who have made this possible for 2015.

$70,000

In January we will deliver the big check to FMSC that was given in the month of October. Feeding the poor is our way of doing God’s work with our hands. Again, thank you.

$20,000

Generosity

—Denny & LaVie Kinvig

8 December 2014 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a

$60,000 $50,000 $40,000 $30,000

$10,000 $0

10/5

10/12

10/19

10/26

Actual Budget

$67,760 $62,399

$46,301 $62,399

$51,812 $62,399

$72,211 $62,399

Apple Jack Orchard

It was a top ten weather day when the Older Wiser Lutherans (OWLs) visited a very busy Apple Jack Orchard on October 16. After a lunch of sandwiches and apple crisp, they boarded a wagon for a ride around the orchard and then had time for shopping for apples, crafts, and donuts before boarding the bus for Lord of Life!

Older Wiser Lutherans (OWLs) Calendar

Happy Hearts

Wednesday, December 17: Worship service at Arbor Lakes at 12:45 pm and/or Rose Arbor Assisted Living at 2:30 pm Thursday, December 18: Visit Como Park Conservatory with a guided tour to see poinsettias on display and other tropical plants.

After the tour, in a private room we’ll enjoy a box lunch followed by a visit from an animal ambassador and zoo animals. We will also have time to shop in the Garden Safari gift shop. Leave at 9:30 am and return at 3:30 pm, cost is $27 including lunch.

Friday, December 19: Labeling LifeTIMES in Fellowship Hall at 9:30 am

save the date Thursday, January 8: “Lunch and a Movie” at 12 noon with a freewill donation lunch. Ina Barton and David Frank will share a special New Year devotion. Celebrate the New Year with friends!

Wednesday, January 21: Hello, Dolly! at the Chanhassen Dinner Theater’s production of the Tony award-winning musical. Dolly Levi is a delightful, scheming busybody who makes her living as a matchmaker in New York City. Come celebrate the 50th anniversary of this legend in American musical theater. Leave Lord of Life at 10:30 am and return at 4 pm. Cost is $56, including lunch.

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.

Lord of Life Ministries

Laughter filled Fellowship Hall on November 6 when the OWLs enjoyed reminiscing about Lutheran times gone by with the help of author and humorist Janet Martin.

Dressed for the occasion, Lord of Life’s own ‘Lutheran Church Ladies’ (Kitchen Lady Rhonda Evans-Hofer and Adult Ministries’ Jane Bergstrom), along with helpers, served a traditional Norwegian Lutheran menu such as red Jello® with bananas, tater tot and tuna macaroni hot dishes, and cake for dessert.

Believing that God has a sense of humor, Pastor Dave McCarty shared his journey of faith to the ministry.

Proverbs 15:13 says, A happy heart makes the face cheerful, and for the OWLs, happy hearts and cheerful faces were had by all!

Thursday, December 4: OWLs’ Annual Christmas Party at noon.

“The Angels Sang ‘Peace on Earth’ ” is the theme. The Flemming Fold family singers specialize in bluegrass, country, gospel, and Alpine folk music with yodeling. Festivities begin in Fellowship Hall with a freewill donation lunch. You are welcome to bring a donation of mittens or scarves. Bring a friend to share in this Christmas celebration!

“For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a December 2014 9

St. Olaf Lutheran Church, our ministry partner in Minneapolis, celebrated its 140th anniversary in October with festive worship featuring the Augsburg College Choir. Augsburg President Paul Pribbenow preached. A group of Lord of Life volunteers served the dinner (from left): Dan Little, Matt Eich, Kirk Olson, Suzanne Olson, Mark Robinson,Wayne Studer, Harold Fellerman, Greg Myhr, Bonnie Hewitt, Paul Brunelle, and Cheryl Myhr.

Sandy Cornelius, Janet Seim, Steve Monson (Stacy Sparks in background)

Hope Lodge

by Shar Moseng Please consider growing in your faith through service this holiday season by donating your time or supplies for The Richard M. Schulze Family American Cancer Society’s Hope Lodge in Minneapolis. Hope Lodge is a home away from home, free of charge, for adult cancer patients and their caregivers who travel more than 40 miles to receive treatment.

Donating Time •

Prepare and serve a meal for the guests at Hope Lodge every other Monday

•

Make “Grab and Go” bags for patients to take with them to treatment

•

Organize and facilitate a special event, such as game night, at Hope Lodge

Donating Supplies

Tanzania

Lord of Life Ministries

During our 2014 Spiritual Safari, we learned that the well Lord of Life had provided funding for in Watalasoli had not been working for several months, but wasn’t being repaired due to lack of funds. As we talked with the village and church elders about the situation, one of the Lord of Life missionaries offered to provide a portion (85%, or approximately $50) of the needed funding if the village was able to provide the balance.

We recently received great news! The village raised their portion of the necessary funds so they were able to get the repairs made to the well. Safe water is flowing again in Watalasoli. Questions about One Mission One World: Tanzania? Contact Barb Hanson at lolmissiontz@gmail.com.

10 December 2014 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a

Hope Lodge is always in need of supplies; their ‘Wish List’ and ‘Dream Wish List’ is on Lord of Life’s Hope Lodge website at lordoflife.org/hopelodge. Smaller donation items can be placed in the appropriate Service Center bins at Lord of Life. For more details on Hope Lodge supply needs and service opportunities, visit the website shown above.

thanks in part to the American Cancer Society, nearly

14 million cancer survivors

are celebrating birthdays this year

Lutheran Social Service (LSS)—

Children’s Clothing Store

by Co-chairs Sandy Munson and Linda Zwick The days between October 8-11 were filled with amazing volunteers, wonderful gently-used clothing donations, and lots of work interspersed with laughter, friendly conversation, and smiles. This year’s children’s clothing store at Lutheran Social Service Center for Changing Lives served 113 families, including 413 children. Formerly homeless families, new and recent immigrants, and grandparents raising their grandchildren greatly appreciated the donations. Several shoppers thanked Lord of Life’s great volunteers. We couldn’t have asked for better representatives from Lord of Life. Forty more families shopped this year. Socks and underwear were gone within the first 40 minutes of the sale, even with limiting purchases to one package of each for every child. Going forward with partner congregations, we plan to be more creative in the collection of donations. Stay tuned—you will hear more about those options in the spring.

Thank you to everyone who participated in this service project in support of those who live on the fringes of society. Thanks for your hands doing God’s work.

First Five

The first five years of marriage are filled with so many firsts!

They can be filled with joy, confusion, compromise, and exhilaration. First Five is a social group that will give a chance for those of us in our first five years of marriage to come together. We will have chances to form bonds with others in a similar situation, celebrate the joy of “firsts” (first dinner party, first Christmas as a couple, etc.), and to support one another. As a group we will work on getting to know one another, strengthen our marriages, and form a cohort in our church.

Interested in learning more? First Five is hosting a fun event for those in the Lord of Life community. If you’re in the first five years of marriage—you are invited! Join in at Whirlyball in Maple Grove on Sunday, January 11, at 3:45 pm for food, fun, and fellowship. Cost is $25 per couple which helps cover the WhirlyBall court rental.

We’ll play from 4-5 pm with dinner afterwards at an additional cost. Please register by contacting Betsy & Ty Thayer at starzie_19@yahoo.com. More information about whirlyball can be found at whirlyballtwincities.com.

let’s enjoy the winter snow!

Lord of Life Ministries

Getting cabin fever? Want to get the kids outdoors? The Creation Care Team has set up a free, fun, family-friendly event to get you out in nature for a few minutes this winter. It’s snowshoeing at Elm Creek Park! On Sunday, January 11, you can come watch the nature center staff feed the animals at Eastman Nature Center starting at 1pm.

From 2-4 pm we will have a naturalist available to provide you with a pair of snowshoes, take you on a nature hike in the snow, and teach you how to track animals in the snow. There are snowshoes to fit everyone four years old to adult. If you would like to meet us at the park and be part of the fun, even though it is free, we need you to sign up

by December 17 at lordoflife.org/creationcare to ensure that we have enough snowshoes that afternoon. Take time to enjoy God’s creation—even when it is cold!

“For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a December 2014 11

Affirmation of Baptism - Rite of C

“You are a child of God

elca youth gathering 2015

Registration closes next month - the summer of 2015 we will be joining 40,000 people in Detroit for the ELCA Youth Gathering. It’s an amazing opportunity to be a part of the larger church as we worship, serve, learn, meet new friends, and experience God in a new way. The dates of the trip are July 11-20, 2015. Open to all youth currently in grades 9-12. Find out more and register at lordoflife.org/ youthgathering.

awol 2015

Watch out for this summer’s AWOL (A Work of Love) mission trip site and dates later this month! AWOL is for youth currently in grades 10-12. We will volunteer with Habitat for Humanity building homes for families in need. More info at lordoflife. org/awol.

Lord of Life Ministries

sr. high sundays

All sr. high youth are welcome to join us for worship, hanging out and sharing our faith every Sunday night! Ecclesia worship starts at 7 pm and Express youth group starts at 7:45 pm. See you there!

12 December 2014 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a

ultimate lock-in 2015 January 23, 10 pm-6 am, $25

For grades 7-9 at the Maple Grove Community Center.

Registration opens December 1 at lordoflife.org/ ultimatelockin. Questions? Ask Raul or Clancy.

Christ, Community, Confirmation—

C3

sundays

December 7, 14 5-6 pm C3 Groups (7th Grade Only) 5:30-6:30 pm Family Meal 6-7 pm C3 Groups and L5 7-7:45 pm Ecclesia Worship 7:45-8:45 pm Explore

wednesdays

December 10, 17 4:30-5:30 pm 5:30-6:30 pm 6:30-7:30 pm

jr. high explore

C3 Groups Family Meal C3 Groups and L5

Come check out Explore—it’s a fun time with worship and games and exploring our faith together on December 7 and 14 from 7:45-8:45 pm.

Confirmation - October 2014

loved beyond measure.”

ski/snowboard junior high day retreat February 14, 8:30 am-7 pm, $50

Let’s have some fun in the snow!

Families are welcome to come ski all day on February 14 at Afton Alps.

Bring your valentines and make some memories. Registration and more information is at lordoflife.org/ jrhighsliretreat. Questions? Contact Raul.

Church School

December 20/21: All children ages 3-grade 6 will be participating in worship during their regular Church School time. Words and music (plus sign language for the 5th/6th graders) for their songs may be found at lordoflife.org/churchschool. Pick up and drop off in regular Church School classrooms.

December 27/28: All children worship with families.

January 3/4:

All children worship with families.

January 10/11:

Regular Church School classes resume. Two-yearolds begin weekly classes!

We can still use your help! It’s never too late to join a Church School ministry team! Contact Kirstin, Julie, or Amanda to get involved.

Parent Night Out

Lord of Life Ministries

PNO is Friday, December 12, from 6-10 pm for all children and their families, birth-6th grade. This is an opportunity for parents to have a night out with safe childcare provided for their children. Our theme this month is all about Advent. We will split into age groups and rotate through projects with a purpose, Bible adventures, and hog-wild games! Please note that a light snack is provided and dinner will not be served. Parents are invited to drop in early for complimentary dessert and coffee, served from 9-10 pm. Your generous donations (suggested minimum $15 per child) will help benefit Lord of Life’s Adult Ministries and the Sr. High ELCA Youth Gathering and summer Habitat for Humanity mission. Please register at lordoflife.org/pno.

“For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a December 2014 13

Fifth Annual Bunge Family Stable Worship Thursday, Christmas Day, 4 pm

Pastor Sarah shares, I started a house church five years ago called “God Loves You!” Peter Geisendorfer-Lindgren and Lord of Life were big fans & supporters & I invited friends on Facebook. The sermon is the same every year—God came to us in a stable because we are not stable. The only animal there is Bingo, our labradoodle (no manure makes for better worship). Worship is held snow or shine—last year was 50 faithful in a blizzard! Meet in Lord of Life’s parking lot at 3:30 pm. Dress warmly for a kid-friendly worship which includes holy communion. All are welcome!

Oliver and Augustus had fun shopping for Operation Christmas Child shoebox gifts! Check January’s LifeTIMES for this year’s results.

Lord of Life Ministries

Congratulations to third graders receiving their Bibles during Reformation Weekend in October—another photo in on Page 2 and many more at facebook.com/lordoflifelutheran.

14 December 2014 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a

December Bible Verse: A savior has been born unto you.

Luke 2:11

Merry Christmas

...and a very happy December one and all!

December Book Pick

by Angie Schiebel, Director of Karing Kingdom Preschool We begin our celebration of Christmas visiting Kris Kringle and his reindeer friends. A special create-and-bake class is included in this fun holiday celebration.

Song of the Stars: A Christmas Story

by Sally Lloyd-Jones All of creation–from the whales to the trees—announce the arrival of a special Baby in this moving holiday song of praise.

We rejoice in the true reason for the season, the birth of Christ our Lord. Special activities will include making the nativity, Baby Jesus, angels, and learning about the different animals who inhabited the stable on that very special night!

Karing Kingdom’s Christmas Program will be held on Thursday, December 18, at 7 pm. Karing Kingdom Preschool will be closed from December 19-January 2, 2015.

Registration for the 2015-16 school year schedule is: •

Current family registration begins Wednesday, January 7, 2015

•

Alumni family registration begins Monday, January 12, 2015

•

Open registration begins Wednesday, January 14, 2015

Celebrating 20 Years 1995-2015 For more information about Karing Kingdom Preschool, please contact us at kingdom@lordoflife.org or call 763.420.5015 x127.

Karing Kingdom Preschool wishes you all a blessed Christmas and Happy New Year!

Happy Halloween 2014!

Karing Kingdom Preschool “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a December 2014 15

Nonprofit US Postage Paid Maple Grove, MN Permit #14 RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED - TIME SENSITIVE MATERIAL ADDRESS 7401 COUNTY ROAD 101, MAPLE GROVE, MN 55311-4313 PHONE 763.420.5015 WEB lordoflife.org FACEBOOK lordoflifelutheran LifeTIMES is a monthly ministry of Lord of Life Lutheran Church (ELCA) printed by Wallace Carlson using ecofriendly inks.To receive LifeTIMES in the mail or electronically— call 763.420.5015 or stop in the main church office or email office@lordoflife.org with your name and address.We invite you to share faith stories, Lord of Life ministry events, photos, poetry & artwork. Submissions may be edited.

Copyright © 2014 Lord of Life Lutheran Church

caught reading lifetimes On the way to the Medora Musical, Dale & Bonnie Mallberg stopped to read LifeTIMES in the North Dakota Badlands.

In front of Big Waterfall, the largest of countless waterfalls in Plitvice Lakes National Park in Croatia, Greg & Barb Janssen are caught reading LifeTIMES.

Lord of Life’s Kitchen Lady Rhonda Evans-Hofer (left) and Adult Ministries’ Jane Bergstrom (right) are caught reading LifeTIMES before serving the OWLs—article on Page 9!

God’s Work. Our Hands. With Joy!

December 2014

“For me to live is Christ”

Philippians 1:21a