LifeTIMES
A monthly ministry of Lord of Life Lutheran Church of Maple Grove, Minnesota
July 2014
With a Memorial Day weekend ceremony in Lord of Life’s backyard, member Jason Chisato-Rodvik (at podium above) completed his Eagle Scout project. It was an important event not only for Jason, but also for his troop, his church, the Hamel Legion, and the community—
Whose Broad Stripes and Bright Stars
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merican flags fly proudly in wind, rain, snow, and hot sun. But what do you do if the flag has become worn, torn, faded, or badly soiled? As citizens, it is our honor and duty to love and respect the flag, and proper disposal of the stars and stripes is what this Eagle Scout ceremony was all about. Jason Chisato-Rodvik explained, “The U. S. flag is more than just some brightly colored cloth… it is a symbol of our nation. Seven red stripes and six white stripes; together they represent the original 13 colonies that gained us liberty. The red stripes remind us of the lifeblood of brave men and women who were ready to die for this, their country. The white stripes remind us of purity and cleanliness of purpose, thought, word, and deed. The blue is for truth and justice, like the eternal blue of the star-filled heavens. The stars represent the 50 sovereign states of our union. The U.S. flag should be treated with respect when it’s flying, and it should be treated with respect when it’s being retired.” Raised in the late 1990s in Franklin, Minnesota, the first old glory retired in this ceremony was Jason’s grandfather Marvin Rodvik’s flag. Jason recalls, “In addition to being a World War II veteran, my grandfather was a man of many things: a clocksmith and enthusiast, funny guy, historian, choir conductor, husband, father, and to me…the best grandfather I could have ever had. This is his flag.” With honor and dignity and silence from the audience, Jason began the protocol for retiring his grandfather’s flag with scissors in hand. He said, “A flag ceases to be a flag when it is cut into pieces. We leave the blue field canton intact because no one should ever let the union be broken.” Stripes are stripped apart then brought into the fire. When you can no longer see the white —continues on Page 9
July 2014 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a
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 spirit 2-5
generosity 6
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 at 7 pm with Holy Communion during the months of July and August Wednesday, July 16, worship service at Arbor Lakes Senior Living at 12:45 pm and Rose Arbor Assisted Living at 2:30 pm Third Sunday worship at 9:30 am on July 20 at Ambassador - Good Samaritan Society in New Hope Healing Services in July/August: There will be no healing services; however, appointments may be made directly with Pastor Karen Sue Greimel.
adult children youth family (cyf) 7-11 12-14 contact info 15 pastoral staff Rev. Peter Geisendorfer-Lindgren, Senior Pastor, peter@lordoflife.org Rev. Todd Buegler, Pastor, Children, Youth & Family Ministry, todd@lordoflife.org Rev. Dr. Karen Geisendorfer-Lindgren, Pastor, Adult Ministries, karengl@lordoflife.org Rev. Karen Sue Greimel, Pastor, Pastoral Care, ksgreimel@lordoflife.org Rev. Dave McCarty, Pastor, Outreach and Mission, davem@lordoflife.org Pastoral Intern Taylor Wilson, taylorw@lordoflife.org
July 5/6/7 Preaching: Pastor Peter Geisendorfer-Lindgren Special Music Saturday: Praise Band Sunday: Val Lari Monday: to be announced July 12/13/14 Preaching: Pastor Todd Buegler Special Music Saturday: Praise Band Sunday: Lee Fuchs Monday: to be announced July 19/20/21 Preaching: Pastor Karen Sue Greimel Saturday: Praise Band Sunday: Osseo United Methodist Brooklyn Big Band Monday: to be announced July 26/27/28 Preaching: Pastor Karen Geisendorfer-Lindgren Special Music Saturday: Praise Band Sunday: Joseph Ellickson Monday: to be announced Please note worship and music schedules may be
With hugs, heartfelt best wishes, and lots of good cake— Pastor David said ‘adieu’ as an active pastor in the Lord of Life family. May God bless you in retirement, Pastor David!
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subject to change.
July 2014 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a
spirit
God Is Doing Something New by Pastor Todd Buegler
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hung up the phone after I’d been notified that Trinity Lutheran Church in Owatonna had voted that morning to call me as their new senior pastor. I told Lori the news, and we both looked at each other, not exactly sure what to do, or to say.
Excitement? Absolutely. This is a tremendous opportunity. Trinity Lutheran is a very faithful congregation that recently completed a large building expansion (sound familiar?) and is thinking about the very best way that they can use it to carry out God’s mission in their community and in the world. They are gifted and passionate, and are looking forward. It’s energizing to think about being in that role in that community. Terrified? Of course. Trinity, like all congregations, faces big challenges. They have a debt that needs to be reduced (sound familiar?) and face many of the same pressures that all churches have. Sad? Yes. I have 27 years of amazing relationships here. When I came to Lord of Life I never could have imagined that I’d be here 27 years later. But I fell in love with the people. And as the church has grown, my ministry was formed. I’ve learned so much from you, from Pastor Peter, from all of my colleagues. Leaving Lord of Life will be incredibly difficult. But called? Yes, confidently. God is doing something new in the lives of me and my family. God will be doing something new at Lord of Life, and at Trinity. As I’ve walked through this process, I’ve tried to pay attention to God’s Holy Spirit, working in my midst. Lori and I talked about our “escape hatches.” As in “if __________ doesn’t work out, we can always walk away…and then if ____________ doesn’t work out, we can walk away… and then…” But as we went through the call process, one-by-one, all of our escape hatches closed up, until really, the only thing left in front of me was to receive and accept this call. It has all fallen into place. This reminds me of God’s great faithfulness. I have seen God journey with me in this process. And I believe that, as exciting, terrifying, and sad as it may be, this is the right thing for us. And I am equally confident that God will continue to be faithful to Lord of Life. This change brings an opportunity for a new and different future for the church. And you still have great leaders…and God will still be present and at work. I firmly believe that Lord of Life’s best days are still yet to come.
© Alyssa Lund Photography
So as I felt called to come to Lord of Life in 1987, today I feel called to a different place. But I leave with 27 years of wonderful memories and ministry. It has been an honor to take this journey with you. Thank you for all you have done for me and my family; for your friendship, love, and support. While I may no longer be serving as your pastor, please know that I will always call you friends. God bless! Pastor Todd
A Fond Farewell
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The Buegler Family (left to right) Lori, Nathan, Todd, Sam
e want to wish Pastor Todd all the best in this new call and provide a proper send-off to Trinity Lutheran (tlcowatonna.org). Pastor Todd’s last scheduled sermon at Lord of Life will be July 12-14. After those worship services, you are invited to stop by Fellowship Hall for refreshments and offer best wishes. Lord of Life, particularly the Children, Youth & Family ministry, will never be the same without Pastor Todd. May God continue to bless him, his wife Lori, sons Nathan and Samuel, on this new path led by the Holy Spirit. All of them will be sorely missed at Lord of Life.
July 2014 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a
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Peaceful people take time to rest, to stop the frantic pace... To enjoy the scenes around them, to see the smiling face... Life should be driven slowly, it should never be a race... In life we should try, always, to find a peaceful place... —Dene Holmquist Lord of Life Member
Lord of Life Lives Christ Together
baptisms
At Lord of Life we baptize individuals at any age. The next baptism class is on Saturday, July 12, from 10-11 am; no preregistration is necessary. To schedule a baptism, please call the church office at 763.420.5015.
bereavements
Prayers of sympathy for those who are grieving the loss of a loved one; may they be comforted in the promise of the resurrection. Nancy Carlson and family at the death of her aunt
weddings
May 16 Wendy Sondag & Paul Taft May 24 Jennifer O’Neil & Robert Danielson May 31 Hailey Fischer & Michael Hendrickson
May 10 Lucas James Doty Katelyn Noelle Peterson
Joan Freeberg and family at the death of her mother
May 11 Grace Pelach Ball Connor Lukas Krzmarzick Aiden Douglas Engel Elle Diane Riley Hadley Tatum Max
Rick Haagenson and family at the death of his father
welcome new members
Bonnie & Bob Hewitt and family at the death of their niece
George & Kay Wieland
May 17 Addison Marie Hagen Heather Verone Sheedy McKenna Kathryn Sheedy May 18 Sophie Lee Duchene Logan David Demontigny Alexis Kensley Jenson May 25 Isla Marie Beecher Tenlee Marie Bringe
spirit
May 31 Easton Robert Johnson Matthew Cresston Buss Khloe Grace Vickers 4 July 2014 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a
Diane Marx and family at the death of her aunt Darrick Olson and family at the death of his grandmother Derek Soppeland and family at the death of his mother Ardis & Bill Zaier and family at the death of their son-in-law
Kevin & Melissa Timm with Lillian
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. You are invited to become a part of the Lord of Life family of faith.
Nourish the Body and Soul
spirit
by Shar Moseng
M
y friend Denise and I had the pleasure of dining with two Hope Lodge residents in May, Steve and Elaine. They kindly agreed to share their experiences at Hope Lodge. Here is their story…
Even though both Steve (the patient) and Elaine (the caregiver) have battled cancer, their optimism and faith remain strong. They have been blessed with four children, 14 grandchildren, and three greatgrandchildren throughout their marriage. They have been living at Hope Lodge since January while Steve is receiving treatment for a form of lymphoma, and they were looking forward to going home the following Wednesday to Hinckley for the summer. We asked Steve what he planned to do when they arrived home, and he immediately replied, “Have a campfire. Spend time with family and friends around the campfire.” Even though they were both looking forward to going home, they indicated they would miss Hope Lodge…especially the people. “What would we have done without this place? Since we need treatment every day, it saves a lot financially, but… the sense of community here; it provides encouragement.” Both Steve and Elaine could not express how much they appreciated the support they found at Hope Lodge through the other patients and caregivers. They became friends with many of the other residents. According to Steve, “The relationships that you develop here— they become your family. You get support when you’re here and support when you leave.”
Elaine, Lindsay (Hope Lodge team member), and Steve
In addition to the patients and caregivers, Steve and Elaine said they couldn’t “overemphasize what the Hope Lodge staff has done for us. The staff is unbelievable; they are top-notch people.” The staff has done so much for them that they felt the need to give back…and did so generously by bringing them donuts and caramel rolls from Tobies on occasion. During their stay at Hope Lodge, they always looked forward to the Monday night dinners served by Lord of Life. They enjoy the good food and the fact that all of the leftovers remain at Hope Lodge for the residents. Steve said the dinners are especially appreciated since it gives the caregivers a break from cooking. They also enjoy the company and friendships developed with the Lord of Life volunteers. Steve said, “There’s always a laugh or two. We’ve gotten to know you guys...your visits nourish the body and the soul.” For more information on Hope Lodge, visit lordoflife.org/hopelodge or contact Paula Thomas at pkthomas5@hotmail.com. Great opportunity to serve on a summer evening—
Relay for Life
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nce again Lord of Life will provide a dinner for all cancer survivors and guests at the Amercian Cancer Society’s Relay for Life. The event is rain or shine and there are lots of ways for you to give the gift of time:
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Help prepare the meal at Lord of Life on Friday, July 18, in the morning; exact time to be determined
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Help serve the survivors’ meal from 4-6 pm at Osseo Senior High
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Help set up the Lord of Life campsite Friday, July 18, in the morning at about 9 am
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Help fill luminaria bags with sand starting at 10 am. This is a great service opportunity for small children.
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Women’s Cancer Support group meets the first Monday of every month at 7 pm— even in the summer! Questions? Contact Michelle Welinski at michellew@lordoflife.org or 763.420.5015 x118.
Serve in the Snack Shack selling concessions—a great opportunity to serve with children age 8+ with a parent. C3 students earn service hours, too! Two-hour shifts are available: 2-4 pm setting up the concession stand 4-6 pm 6-8 pm 8-10 pm 10 pm-12 am
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Take down the Lord of Life campsite and bring items back to church at 5 am
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Help clean up the relay site
Register for volunteer shifts at lordoflife.org/relayforlifevolunteerreg. Questions? Contact Michelle Welinski at michellew@lordoflife.org or 763.420.5015 x118.
July 2014 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a
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generosity
may 2014 budget year-to-date Actual
Budget
Difference
Total member contributions $1,225,262 $1,270,399 ($45,137) All other
$121,133 $108,489
Total receipts
“
$12,644
$1,346,395 $1,378,888 ($32,493)
I’m Glad My Church Needs Money!
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wish we didn’t talk so much about money,” is a comment I have often heard while working with churches to raise funds for their important purposes. I understand the sentiment but, in fact, I hope my church always needs money. Here is why. My son, Lance, was born before it became acceptable for the father to be present in the delivery room. I waited in the hallway just outside the delivery room until I heard the unmistakable cry of a newborn baby, Lance’s first sound. The nurse emerged with a smile and said, “You have a baby boy.” Two days later I wrote the check paying all the hospital expenses in full. That check turned out to be only the first of hundreds, maybe thousands, I would write on Lance’s behalf. Children are expensive. There was formula and food, diapers and toys, clothes and babysitters. As Lance’s age and size increased so did the expenses. Soon it was baseball gloves and Nikes. Then he needed glasses for his eyes and braces for his teeth. Then came college. Lance had always, and only, wanted to be an architect. Tuition, books, and drawing tools led the long list of essential expenditures. But, of course, I was happy to be able to help him and I did all I could to support his growth and his dreams. And then, one day, Lance died. On a bright, beautiful, and horrible Halloween Day, twenty-one-yearold Lance was buried in the church’s cemetery. That afternoon I walked away from his grave and since that day I have never spent another nickel on Lance.
That is how I learned that death is cheap. Death can be sustained without expense. It is living that is costly. It is growth that is expensive. Our dreams, visions, and hopes require resources. Death doesn’t! And that is why I am glad my church needs money. A living, growing, thriving church will always require the continual, consistent, and conscientious financial support of its members. And that’s the church I want to belong to. —Article by Don Linscott, Generis Partners, LLC Printed with Permission Lord of Life Weekly Giving — May 2014 $70,000 $60,000 $50,000 $40,000 $30,000 $20,000 $10,000 $0
5/4 5/11 5/18 5/25
Actual $65,100 $54,037 $54,431 $52,958 Budget $57,940 $57,940 $57,940 $57,940
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July 2014 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a
Being an OWL is a Older Wiser Lutherans—
OWLs Events
hoot!
adult
Thursday, July 10 (note date change): Faith, Food, and Fellowship begins at 10 am with special guests Deputy Jason Majeski and his dog, Jake, from the Hennepin County Sheriff K-9 Core. A freewill donation lunch follows. You won’t want to miss it! Wednesday, July 16: Worship services at Arbor Lakes Senior Living at 12:45 pm and/ or Rose Arbor Assisted Living at 2:30 pm
Thursday, July 17: Cruise on the Spirit of the Water - This event is full. Contact Karen Nelson to be placed on a waiting list. Leave at 10 am and return at 4:30 pm. Friday, July 25: LifeTIMES labeling in Fellowship Hall at 9:30 am—coffee’s on!
save the dates Thursday, August 14 (note date change): An interesting morning is planned with our guest Lisa Toms. Come learn about your options and opportunities to maximize independence at home. Lisa’s education is in nursing, psychology, and she’s working on a master’s in gerontology and health care administration. Invite a friend! We will begin at 10 am in Fellowship Hall; freewill donation for lunch. Thursday, August 21: Minnesota Twins vs Cleveland Indians! We have seats reserved in the Powerball Pavillion for the 12:10 pm game. Lunch is on your own at Target Field—a great time to try some of the new foods offered this year. You may bring one bottle of water into the stadium. We will leave church at 10:30 am and return around 4:30 pm. The cost is $30. See the bulletin board for more details on these events. For more information, stories, and photos of this vibrant seniors’ ministry, please visit lordoflife.org/owls.
Tours in Le Sueur
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n May 15, the OWLs ventured to Le Sueur, Minnesota, to tour the modern, mechanized Cambria plant. The OWLs watched the production of Cambria, a natural quartz surface product. It goes from bags of various quartz sizes, put through a press then into the ovens, and from there polished into a very durable product with many different patterns and colors. After lunch at the Pizza Ranch, the OWLs had a second tour this time to the Davisco Cheese Company which produces bulk cheese sold to other companies. They watched the large milk trucks being unloaded, saw the very modern machinery used to make cheese, and also saw the packing area. Before heading home, the OWLs stopped in the Cheese Shoppe to buy some cheese or have an ice cream treat. Many OWLs were very tired from a long day with lots of walking and climbing.
July 2014 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a
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adult
Our urban partnership with St. Olaf—
Helping Those in Need
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astor Dale Hulme at St. Olaf Lutheran Church in Minneapolis extends sincere thanks to everyone who has participated in our partnership. Thank you for clocks for the nursing home. Thank you for the adopt-a-family participants at Christmas. Thank you for winter clothing and coats. Thank you to the OWLs for event invitations. Thank you to the men who completed building and yard clean-up projects for St. Olaf members this spring.
join the fun Dominican Republic dates have been set for January 17-24, 2015. Jamaica will have one big week from March 28-April 14, 2015, which coincides with District 279’s spring break and Holy Week. Please contact Pastor Dave McCarty, 763.420.5015 x147 to learn more about all of the mission trips through Lord of Life. Discover where God is calling you to go and share His love in word and deed.
July 19 from 1-7 pm is St. Olaf ’s Community Revival and Neighborhood Carnival. Bring the family and bring your friends. Help us support our urban partner congregation! We will serve sno-cones and cotton candy and share in the fun with children of all ages. We need help with set up, booth operation, and clean up. Shift times can be flexible; pick the timeframe that works for your family. You can use your hands in many ways to do God’s work at St. Olaf. Questions? Contact Suzanne Olson for more information at suzanneo@lordoflife.org.
Thank You
To Congregations supporting the Institute of Agriculture—
by Barb Hanson
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ne Mission One World - Tanzania (1M1W-Tanzania) provides Lord of Life members with opportunities to partner with members of Ifuwa Parish by working “bega kwa bega” (shoulder-toshoulder). These opportunites are providing access to education and safe water through the godparent and well-drilling projects, increasing intercultural understanding through spiritual safaris, and improving crop yields for village farmers through the Institute of Agriculture’s project. At right is a thank you from the executive director of the Institute of Agriculture. And to Lord of Life, thank you for continued support of our brothers and sisters in Christ in Ifuwa, Tanzania!
If you’re interested in reading the research article referenced in the letter, please send an email to lolmissiontz@gmail.com.
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n behalf of the Institute of Agriculture I would like to thank you for your support of the activities of the Institute. Your support has helped increase agricultural productivity and improved the standard of living for small farmers and their families in the Iringa region. This work is getting wider attention. We were recently notified that the attached article was published in the Spring Issue of the International Journal of Agricultural and Extension Education. We are proud of our researchers and are honored to have the work of the Institute recognized worldwide. It is the support of congregations like yours that make this work possible. Thank you for being part of this success story. May God’s blessings be with you.
Roger Blomquist, Executive Director Institute of Agriculture University of Iringa
July 2014 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a
adult —continues from cover page
stripes, the blue field of stars is draped over the fire. Jason quipped, “As the parts of the flag are placed in the fire remember—old flags never die, they just get fired up!” On a later date, ashes from all of the retired flags will be buried as the last representation of the flags’ retirement. After that initial flag was burned, others attending the ceremony began participating in the process as well. Jason also unveiled the covered, wooden repository box on wheels which he made to hold more flags to be retired. This is where members and those in our community are invited to bring worn or faded American flags for proper disposal. The flag repository box will be located in Lord of Life’s Service Center. Note that this repository is for our national flag—not seasonal or ordinary flags, please. In closing out the ceremony Jason said, “On this Memorial Day weekend we remember all veterans. It is a day that we often forget the purpose behind. I encourage you to thank a veteran today and to pay your respects to those who have fallen. I would like to thank you all for coming to this ceremony. I would like to give special thanks to the Hamel Legion for their partnership and patience as I worked on this project over the last year, to Lord of Life for letting this all take place, to Lowes for the generous donation of all the material, to Steve Monson for significant assistance, and to the scouts who came to help me today. Last but not least, I would like to thank all of you for coming out to this ceremony.” And from Lord of Life to you, Jason, a sincere thank you for your work on this inspiring and meaningful extension of our Military Families Support Ministry.
another eagle soars Ethan Wehling (photo below) is another soaring Eagle Scout. He approached a missionary asking if he could help to make the Jamaican Westhaven childrens’ lives better. What resulted was Ethan and fellow scouts creating paper screens for the Jamaican youth. They’ll use the paper screens to make handmade paper from bamboo pulp and grasses indigenous to Jamaica. Ethan’s Eagle Scout project provided the Westhaven youth with a skill towards the eventual goal of being self-sufficient. Outstanding project, Ethan, keep soaring like an eagle!
Editor’s Note: Please keep Jason Chisato-Rodvik in your prayers as he began basic training with the U. S. Army in Fort Benning, Georgia in June. His patriotism and service continues!
Grow your faith with harvest for the foodshelf—
Wednesdays in the Garden
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ome to LifeGARDEN any Wednesday in July or August at 6:30 pm for crew work in the community garden. Tools and instruction will be provided. In case of rain or severe heat, this event will not be held. Questions? Feel free to email garden@lordoflife.org or visit lordoflife.org/ lifegarden.
Como Park Family Day
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s shared in the June issue, Thursday, July 24, will be Lutheran Social Service (LSS) “Family Day” at Como Park. This is a very well-received event for those with a long history of homelessness who are now working hard to turn their lives around. Rain or shine—the day includes a picnic lunch (that’s our part), a dance and karaoke contest, and some casual sport games. It is a fabulous family volunteer event. Questions? Please contact Lord of Life’s LSS Ambassadors Sandy or Bob Munson at 763.416.4636 or rsmunson@embarqmail.com.
July 2014 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a
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adult
Save the date: October 3-5 and Escape into God’s Presence—
Women’s Retreat by Wendy Showalter
T Fotolia
o escape means to slip or get away as from confinement…to dodge, flee, take flight from, or receive freedom. Escape with your sisters in Christ for a time away. It’s a chance to ‘retreat’ from everyday life to spend time with our Lord.
Lord of Life’s women’s retreat, “Escape into God’s Presence,” is planned for Friday-Sunday, October 3-5. The retreat will be at Mount Carmel Retreat Center near Alexandria, Minnesota. Our guest speaker will be Marva Sheriff, artist of Credo Designs. There will be plenty of time for laughter, prayers, nature walks, introspection, music, fellowship, and good food. Delight in a guided imagery escape led by Pastor Karen Sue. Bring your digital camera or phone to capture God’s presence in nature. Free time for shopping, bunko, and relaxation has been reserved just for you. The cost is $175 (includes meals and lodging in a double-occupancy room); registration and payment are at lordoflife.org/womensretreat. My heart has heard Him say, “Come and talk with me.” And my heart responds, “I am coming.” Into God’s presence, the Lord is close to all who call upon Him. The Lord will show us the way of life granting joy in His presence and the pleasures Questions on the retreat? Contact Linda Zwick (763.464.3781 or lkzwick@comcast.net) or of living with Him forever. Wendy Showalter (763.229.3185 or wendylsshowalter@gmail.com).
Life Interrupted
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Philippians 3:14 says, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. During these rough areas of life, it’s important to keep our eyes on God and to focus on the strength that comes from a loving relationship with our true Higher Power, Jesus. At Celebrate Recovery members are learning to “admit we are powerless and our lives are unmanageable.” We are learning not to dwell on the past, rather to look to the future. We are learning to make amends and offer forgiveness. With the help of Jesus, we are breaking cycles of despair and hopelessness and looking with great excitement at what the future holds. Celebrate Recovery meets every Tuesday night. Dinner is served from 5:45-6:30 pm, large group from 6:30-7:30 pm, then with gender-specific small groups from 7:30-8:30 pm. Childcare is provided; programming for Celebration Place (children) and the landing (teens) runs at the same time. Questions? Contact Michelle Welinski at michellew@lordoflife.org or 763.420.5015 x118. Take the first step. Come and check out Celebrate Recovery every Tuesday. Yes, even in the summer. After all, family issues do not take the summer off!
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July 2014 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a
GraphicStock
as your life been going along smoothly and now suddenly you’ve hit a rough area? For some of you the rough area may be marital problems, depression, job loss or addiction just to name a few. Any of these situations can disrupt life as you know it or as you thought it should be. It’s easy to feel alone and to possibly want to give up. Sometimes we are in such despair, we think this is what we deserve. Scripture tells us otherwise…
adult
2B REAL Men Retreat by Chris Tollefson
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his was the 36th year for Lord of Life’s men gathering for fun and fellowship! It was a wonderful weekend at the Shores of St. Andrew in Spicer, Minnesota. Some 40+ were able to attend the event for much needed ‘guy time.’ Some played golf, some rode bikes, some relaxed, and everyone had good food. Doug Haugen from Lutheran Men in Mission joined the retreat and led discussions about men needing other men to develop friendships. It helped us realize opportunities within these relationships when God’s Spirit may heal and mold us into who we are created to be. It was a great experience for men to share each other’s company in fun, fellowship, and prayer. Service Opportunities: Silent Knights is an informal group of men whose mission is to help people with projects/ maintenance which they are unable to perform. No specific skills are needed, but many have special gifts to share. All that is needed is a willingness to share these gifts and help out on an occasional basis. Questions? Contact Blake Toms at bltoms2@comcast.net. Support: The Men’s Cancer Support group meet the first Monday of each month at Lord of Life. Groups begin at 7 pm. Please contact Gregg Backstrom at 2ber@lordoflife.org for more details. Learn: We have multiple Bible studies throughout the week for men to attend. Groups meet on Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday. Please contact Chris Tollefson at ctollefson1019@ gmail.com for more details.
July 2014 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a
2B REAL Men tshirts (shown at left) are still available for ordering. Visit lordoflife.org/ realmen for details.
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children youth family
Bonfire, Music, Games & Fun July 17 from 7-9 pm
a work of love (awol) philadelphia
This summer Lord of Life sr. high youth and adults will travel across the country to build houses, share our faith and grow as disciples of Jesus. Please pray for us as we travel, work and have fun! To follow our travels, visit lordoflife.org/awol.
AWOL: Philadelphia, PA – July 12-23
C3 & sr. high summer volunteer opportunities
SummerTIME Club 56 July 15: Heading to Valleyfair! Cost is $30 and includes the water park. August 12: On our way to Cascade Bay Water Park and mini-golf! We’ll also tie-dye Club 56 t-shirts! Cost is $30 and includes a t-shirt to tie-dye.
Want to volunteer this summer? We’ve got lots of opportunities for you to serve God and others at Lord of Life during Vacation Bible School (VBS) and other events! Here are the dates: Preschool/Kindergarten VBS Week 2 – July 7-10 Club 56 Adventure Day – July 15 (sr. high only) VBS Week 1 – July 21-24 VBS Week 2 – July 28-31 VBS Week 3 – August 4-7
Please sign up online at lordoflife.org/cyfsummervol.
jr. high bible camp on july 6-11
We’ll venture to beautiful Danbury, Wisconsin for camp week with youth who have completed grades 6-9. It’s a great time for faith and fun. Register directly at lutherpark.com or pick up a registration form at the Youth Booth.
lordoflife.org/summer 2014 Summer Fun Run!
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July 2014 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a
children youth family
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Hey, Lord of Life families— Stay in touch with your camper or AWOLer. Connect on Facebook for photos (facebook.com/lordoflifelutheran) and website (lordoflife.org/awol) for blogs. It’s a virtual world—even when it comes to building & sharing our faith!
thank you
Summertime Book Review by Michelle Welinski, Director of Pastoral Care, Missions & Ministries, and Supervisor, Wedding Coordinators
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s the song goes, “Summertime and the living is easy.” Although summer is all about being outside, reading a good book (or two or three or ?) is also a wonderful way to enjoy the season. This summer, introduce your child to the habit of daily devotions with the new devotional, Jesus Calling-365 Devotions for Kids. It’s never too early to instill in our children the habit of daily quiet time with God. Jesus Calling is a good tool for elementary readers. Children will learn how God speaks to them through everyday examples a child may face: adventure, constant change, fear, friends, love, rest, joy—you get the idea. The same situations we adults face. Each devotion starts with scripture and ends with encouraging readers to “read on their own” from suggested additional scripture. While you are encouraging your children, set the example and pick up your own copy of Jesus Calling, Enjoying Peace in His Presence. Settle in together, and be still. See how God speaks to you in the silence. Pick up your copy of either book in Lord of Life’s Reflections of Faith resource area.
A $1,115.36 check was sent to the ELCA World Hunger Appeal thanks to your generous donations through the Lenten hunger drive. Our gifts provide relief, development, education and advocacy. More information on the ELCA World Hunger Appeal can be found at elca.org/hunger. God’s work. Our hands.
Vacation Bible School
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t’s not too late! You can still register your children and their friends for summer faith building fun at Lord of Life! Themes include Weird Animals and Living in God’s Time. Here are more details: For children age 3 who have completed kindergarten— Weird Animals is July 7-10 from 9 am–12 pm. Children will spend time in small groups, moving from station to station. Crafts, activities, games, Bible study, songs plus live animals will visit on Wednesday! Registration fee includes a music CD and an animal backpack. Sign up at lordoflife.org/preschoolvbs.
For kids entering grades 1-6—Living in God’s Time is July 21-24 or July 28-31 or August 4-7. All weeks are from 9 am-3 pm. Camp songs and skits, crafts, games and more, all are centered around the different seasons of the church year. We’ll celebrate Advent, Christmas, Lent, Easter, and a special Pentecost program with root beer floats the final evening of camp. Sign up at lordoflife.org/vbs
note for parents
We can still use help hosting some of the counselors for evening meals and/or provide housing for the camp staff during the week. Please contact Julie (juliew@ lordoflife.org) if you can help!
July 2014 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a
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children youth family
July Bible Verse: “Love one another.” John 15:17b
Karing Kingdom
by Angie Schiebel, Director of Karing Kingdom Preschool
D July Book Picks Bucket Filling from A to Z by Carol McCloud & Caryn Butzke and Have You Filled a Bucket Today? by Carol McCloud These delightful books show the power of affirming words and actions through simple gestures that have powerful results.
uring the past three years at Karing Kingdom Preschool we have introduced “The Bucket Filling” concept. The basic idea of a full bucket is a symbol for a child’s healthy self-concept and happiness. The use of encouraging words, reassuring actions and positive examples help children realize how much they are cherished. God commands us to “love one another” or “fill a bucket” because He knows what is good for us. See the July Book Picks at left for great resources on this idea— summertime is a great time for reading books together with your preschooler! Karing Kingdom Preschool continues to take registration for the 2014-15 school year. For more information or if you have questions, please call 763.420.5015 x127 or email kingdom@lordoflife.org. A reminder for families enrolling in the 2014-15 school year that enrollment packets were due on Monday, June 23. Thank you.
2014 Adventure Week
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July 2014 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a
contact info WEB lordoflife.org PHONE 763.420.5015 FAX 763.420.7286 ADDRESS 7401 County Road 101, Maple Grove, MN 55311-4313 V isit lordoflife.org/lolstaff for a full staff listing with photos. PRAYER NETWORK prayernetwork@lordoflife.org FACEBOOK facebook.com/lordoflifelutheran
1978 Lord of Life Lutheran Church
Congratulations Class of 2014
Charter (ELCA) Lord of Life is a community of people called together by God’s Holy Spirit who confess Christ as Lord. We wish to be a church whose door is open to all people. And with the guidance of the Holy Spirit we will strive to educate, comfort, aid and spread the word of love in Christ’s name. We believe worship is of most importance in our life together as we
Family and friends celebrate with Luther Seminary graduate Jerod Freeberg!
receive God’s love through Word and Sacrament. We will be involved with seeking justice in our community, state, nation, and world. We hold high the dignity and worth of every human being as created in God’s image and forgiven in Christ. We hope to be a serving church, in the name of Him who came as Servant of all.
July 2014 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a
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ADDRESS 7401 COUNTY ROAD 101, MAPLE GROVE, MN 55311-4313 RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED - TIME SENSITIVE MATERIAL
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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. The deadline for the August issue is July 1. Copyright 2014 Lord of Life Lutheran Church
caught reading lifetimes
Gardeners Janet Seim and grandson Adrian Ambrose pause for a moment to read LifeTIMES, see Page 9 for a LifeGARDEN article.
With Lady Liberty over their shoulders, Brooklyn, Kaia, and Caden Loberg are caught reading LifeTIMES on the Staten Island Ferry in New York City— thank you to Grandma Christine Lagerquist for the photo!
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Taking a break from the hard work of play, these Adventure Week boys were caught reading LifeTIMES!
July 2014 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a