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LifeTIMES

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

June 2013

As a boy growing up in Franklin, Minnesota my mother’s favorite Bible verse was displayed predominately in the main entrance of our home. The verse was Joshua 24:15, “As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.”

Operation Home Coming

by John Rodvik, Lord of Life Military Family Support Ministry

hen my wife Lucy and I were asked to start a Military Family Support Ministry we did so but had many questions as to not only how we can serve but just as perplexing was who we can serve. Our mission became defined and we have been blessed by completing numerous service opportunities mostly focusing on helping military members, their families, and veterans. All of these service opportunities have been special but our latest endeavor was a feat that appeared to have divine guidance from the beginning and quite frankly, divine guidance is just how Operation Home Coming not only was derived but executed as well.

Late last year my friend Phil Leith asked me to be guest speaker about Lord of Life’s Military Family Support Ministry at the Maple Grove Lions’ meeting. He told me a free meal was involved so I enthusiastically agreed to speak! Little did I know my speech would put into motion a bevy of activity resulting in a soldier who was serving in Afghanistan being welcomed back into a new home of his own. Operation Home Coming began in earnest on the last Monday of February when Lord of Life member Wayne Studer, representing the Maple Grove Lions, asked if he could attend our monthly meeting. Wayne had told me earlier that the Maple Grove Lions had voted to support our ministry with a financial gift. Wayne indicated that this was not going to be just a small token gift but a substantial gift which made me worry that we may not have a project “grand” enough to warrant such a generous gift from the Lions. We began our potluck meeting promptly at 6:30 pm with Wayne as our guest. I knew what Wayne was going to discuss. I was still concerned that we may not have a grand enough project when at 6:32 pm Sandy, the church receptionist, handed me a note for me to call someone who just called into Lord of Life’s office seeking help for a soldier. I made the call and could not really believe what I was hearing on the other end of the line. The gentleman who called into Lord of Life had heard that LOL had a ministry —continues on Page 10

June 2013 “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 2-7

generosity 8

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 June, July, and August Third Sunday worship at 9:30 am on June 16 at Good Samaritan Society - Ambassador in New Hope Third Wednesday worship at 2 pm on June 19 at Rose Arbor Assisted Living in Maple Grove

June 1/2/3 Preaching: Pastor Peter Geisendorfer-Lindgren Special Music Saturday: Praise Band Sunday: North Star Boys’ Choir Monday: to be decided

adult children youth family (cyf) 9-11 12-14 contact info 15 pastoral staff Rev. Peter Geisendorfer-Lindgren, Senior Pastor, x105, peter@lordoflife.org Rev. Todd Buegler, Pastor, Children Youth Family, x109, todd@lordoflife.org Rev. Dr. Karen Geisendorfer-Lindgren, Pastor, Adult Ministries, x104, karengl@lordoflife.org Rev. Karen Sue Greimel, Pastor, Pastoral Care, x144, ksgreimel@lordoflife.org Rev. Dr. David Lippitt, Pastor, Congregational Care, x122, davidl@lordoflife.org Rev. Dave McCarty, Pastor, Outreach and Mission, x147, davem@lordoflife.org

Feed My Starving Children (FMSC) may be a great family or small group service opportunity for you. For more details, visit lordoflife.org/fmsc.

June 8/9/10 Preaching: Pastor David Lippitt Special Music Saturday: Praise Band Sunday: Lee Fuchs Monday: to be decided June 15/16/17 Preaching: Pastor Karen Geisendorfer-Lindgren Special Music Saturday: Praise Band Sunday: Tom Tipton Monday: to be decided June 22/23/24 Preaching: Pastor Peter Geisendorfer-Lindgren Special Music Saturday: Praise Band Sunday: OWLs (Older Wiser Lutherans) Monday: to be decided June 29/30/July 1 Preaching: Pastor Karen Sue Greimel Special Music Saturday: Praise Band Sunday: to be decided Monday: to be decided Please note worship & music schedules may be subject to change.

June 2013 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a

Science, Faith, and Happiness

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don’t know if you‘ve noticed or not, but there seems to be a growing fascination among social scientists with the notion of happiness. Recently, Linda and I had the opportunity to visit Costa Rica on vacation and discovered why this small Latin American country is considered the happiest nation in the world. (By the way, nestled between Ethiopia and Portugal the United States ranks 104 out of 151 nations measured.) The ranking is based on the Happy Planet Index (no snickering Pastor David Lippitt please) of the New Economics Foundation (happyplanetindex.org) which measures three key components: life expectancy, experienced well-being, and ecological footprint. I’m not quite ready to run off to Costa Rica to find pura vida or the good life (all bets are off though if it snows in June), but it does make one stop and think. What is happiness? What really makes for happiness? Once again, science is providing us with a possible answer. A fascinating new study by researchers at UCLA and UNC-Chapel Hill evaluated the levels of cellular inflammation of people who describe themselves as “very happy.” One theory is that cellular inflammation is at the root of cancer and other diseases and is generally high in people who live under a lot of stress. We might expect that inflammation would be lower with people with higher levels of happiness. Surprisingly, researchers found that people who were happy because they lived the “good life” (sometimes known as “hedonic happiness”) had high inflammation levels, whereas people who were happy because they lived a life of purpose or meaning (sometimes also known as “eudaimonic happiness”) had low inflammation levels. Cells don’t lie. A life of meaning and purpose, one that is focused less on satisfying oneself and more on others, is the good life and the root of happiness.

Lord of Life provides a vast array of service opportunities to enhance your own personal happiness index and to experience the abundant life that God wants for you. Power and Peace, Pastor David

June 2013 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a

Of course, science can only confirm the paradox that followers of Jesus Christ have always known, namely, that “we gain our life only by losing it” (Matthew 6:25). Jesus not only taught that lesson but he also lived out that lesson. According to Paul in Philippians 2:6-8, “Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not regard equality with God as something to be exploited, but emptied himself, taking the form of a slave, being born in human likeness…and being found in human form, he humbled himself and became obedient to the point of death— even death on the cross.”

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word for women salad luncheon Bring your favorite summer salad (and, of course, don’t forget to bring the recipe!) to the Word for Women Summer Salad Potluck Luncheon on Wednesday, June 19 at 11 am. Beverage and dessert will be provided. Childcare will be available; lunch will not be served but a snack will be provided to the children. Please contact Michelle Welinski if you need childcare so we can be sure the nursery is properly staffed. All women are invited to attend.

FaithfullyFIT!

How will you stay FaithfullyFIT through the summer? Focus On: Healthy Love Healthy Faith Healthy Prayer Healthy Families Healthy Habits Healthy Bodies Healthy Relationships Healthy Foods

Wednesdays in the Garden

hatever the color of your thumb, green or not so green, you are invited to come out to LifeGARDEN, the community garden at Lord of Life, every Wednesday evening in June, July, and August. The evening will start with a picnic supper at 6:30 pm, followed by a brief worship service at 7 pm. After the service everyone will dig in to help with the crops in the communal garden. All the vegetables grown in the communal garden are donated to the foodshelf, so here is a chance to participate in this effort even if you don’t have an individual plot in the garden. It will be a great opportunity to grow your faith and help grow food for others! More details include: •

Dinner will be provided the first week (June 5), and it is BYO (Bring Your Own!) after that

•

There are a few picnic tables, but it would be a good idea to bring lawn chairs or blankets

•

Please bring a non-perishable foodshelf item as “offering” for the worship service

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Families, friends, folks of all ages are welcome

•

Garden tools and instructions will be provided

•

In case of inclement weather, this event will not be held

•

Questions? Contact Alice Woodard at garden@lordoflife.org

See you in the garden!

FaithfullyFIT Health Tip: “To Move the World We Must First Move Ourselves.” -Socrates. Join the FaithfullyFIT Ministry team at the following events for fitness fellowship: CYF Run/Walk: Saturday, June 1: Freedom Field on Rice Lake 1 mile run/walk @ 9 am 5K+ run/walk @ 9:20 am

Contact the FaithfullyFIT Ministry team for tips and training. This will also be the kick-off for the FaithfullyFIT Running/Walking Club. Come and meet Clayton Craig. He’ll be the coach for the Running/ Walking Club focusing on faith, fitness, and fellowship beginning each run/walk with a brief prayer. All levels are welcome. Meet at Rice Lake on Saturdays at 7 am starting Saturday, June 8. No need to register—just show up…bring a friend. Questions? Contact Clayton. “Let us run with endurance the race God has set before us.” Hebrews 12:1

Relay for Life: Friday, July 19: Join a team or start your own team. Come and learn small, manageable steps you can take for a healthier you! We will have nutritional information, exercise ideas, flexibility exercises and more. “I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance (to the full, till it overflows).” John 10:10 (AMP) Health Fair: Saturday, October 5: From 8-11 am in Fellowship Hall. Don’t miss this event which will include traditional health fair components, educational breakout sessions for nutrition, exercise, emotional health, healing and prayer and family fun! Be active for the purpose of godliness! Questions, need support or guidance? Please contact the FaithfullyFIT Ministry team: Beth Kanthak: beth@lifefit-coach.com or 763.229.4896, Mariah Ledin: mariah.ledin@gmail.com, Sheryl Britsch: slb@vzw.blackberry.net, Liz Blom: lizblom@comcast.net or 763.242.3265, Erin Welter: elwelter@gmail.com, Mary Ann Schiebe: maryann.avon@usfamily.net, Mo Orendorff: maureen@ theorendorffs.com, Clayton Craig: cpcraig2@yahoo.com or 720.212.3893.

June 2013 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a

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Relay for Life

t’s time to lace up your shoes for the Relay for Life! Join the fun at this community event on Friday, July 19 at Osseo Senior/Junior High football field beginning at 6 pm. Relay for Life is a fun-filled evening for ALL ages, and once again Lord of Life will be forming several teams to walk the night away to raise awareness and support for those who have been touched by cancer. You do not have to walk all night. Each team member is asked to walk for one hour. There will be food, games, and music throughout the night. Many people will pitch a tent and camp out. Not sure you want to walk, but curious about Relay for Life? Come sit in the stands for the excitement of opening ceremonies or the powerful luminaria ceremony at dusk. Sit in the Lord of Life campsite and cheer on our walkers. Many volunteer opportunities are available too:

adult ministries Jane Bergstrom, Administrative Assistant, x142, janeb@lordoflife.org Karen Nelson, Administrative Assistant, x138, karenn@lordoflife.org Michelle Welinski, Pastoral Care/ Missions/Ministries/Wedding Supervisor, x118, michellew@lordoflife.org

• Scoop sand into the luminaria bags on Friday, July 19. Exact time to be announced. • Sell concessions in the Lord of Life Snack Shack. Sign up for any 2-hour shift: 2-4 pm, 4-6 pm, 6-8 pm, 8-10 pm, 10 pm-12 am. Children are welcome to help along with an adult. • Serve dinner at the Survivor Recognition Dinner sponsored by Lord of Life. Help is needed from 3-6 pm. • Like early morning hours? Help take down the Lord of Life campsite and bring items back to church beginning at 5 am. For any of these serving opportunities, sign up at lordoflife.org/relayforlifevolunteerreg. To sign up to walk visit relayforlife.org/maplegroveosseomn. Be sure to look for the Lord of Life teams! Any questions about the Relay for Life, please contact Michelle Welinski.

CPS3-Cancer Study

or the past six years Lord of Life has had a strong presence in the local American Cancer Society’s (ACS) Relay for Life. Because of this connection, the ACS has asked us to be a host site for a 3rd groundbreaking study—we need you & your family, friends, and neighbors to be a part of it. Lord of Life will be 1 of 21 locations in the month of June to host this study. You may register for any location that is convenient for you. Once you have registered you will be given a baseline survey that asks for information on lifestyle, behavioral, and other factors related to your health. On the day of your appointment you will have your waistline measured and will give a small blood sample and that’s it. Then during the course of the next 20-30 years, every 2 years you will be mailed a follow up survey to update your information. It’s that simple! Lord of Life’s study date is June 21 from 7:30-11:30 am. Visit their website: cps3TwinCities.org to register or learn more. Questions? Contact Michelle Welinski.

tuesday

evenings

lord

If you want freedom from life’s hurts,

Inspire kids with hope, joy,

hang-ups, and habits we encourage

and happiness through God

Stay tuned for the August issue of LifeTIMES which will be devoted to L5 classes and instructors. Until then for more information, please contact an adult ministry staff member, or visit lordoflife.org/L5.

life

you to check out Celebrate Recovery

5:45-6:30 pm dinner

6:30-8:30 pm celebrate recovery

6:30-8:30 pm celebration station

Freewill donation and family-friendly meal—all are welcome!

June 2013 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a

6:30-8:30 pm the landing You are not alone; for those in 7th-12th grade

spirit

Lord of Life Lives Christ Together baptisms

bereavements

welcome to new members

April 6 Jack Ryan Bormann Dylan Edward Hahn Alex Judith Michels Mariah Lynn Needham Alexander Price Roth

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

Vinnie & Ashley Brooks with Rocco

Rosie Cataldo and family at the death of her grandmother

Praveen Chithari & Jenny Thanaraj with Kaelynn

April 7 Cameron Alexandrovich Feinstein Brennan Sidney Waldron

Drew Getchell and family at the death of his wife

Mark & Becky Norman with Luke

April 13 Maxwell Alexander Belair Audriana Elizabeth King Maci Margaret Paavola

Steve & Monika Getchell and family at the death of their daughter-in-law Jen Halverson and family at the death of her grandmother

April 14 Jackson Joseph Barnes Kathryn Olivia Barnes Tyler Joel Fisher Isaac James Gualdoni Matthew Thomas Mueller

John Snyder & Laura Duffee Snyder with Brandon Warren & Dottie Sterling Norm & Sherri Meyer

Ruth Rapacz and family at the death of her sister

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.

Judy Schroeder and family at the death of her father

April 21 Alcina Marie Killian Brody Timothy Larson

Ashley Schumacher and family at the death of her grandfather

April 28 Asher Scott Asleson Carter Michael Janssen Palmer Gray Peltier Forrest James Simonton

Pam Zinter and family at the death of her aunt

Tom Seidner and family at the death of his wife

At Lord of Life, we baptize individuals at any age. The next baptism class is on Saturday, June 8, from 10-11 am; no preregistration is necessary. To schedule a baptism, please call the church office.

Brian Olson

Kevin Lysdahl, Lauren & Luke and family at the death of their wife/ mother

John Rodvik and family at the death of his father

April 20 Kia Jo McElroy Addison Michele Peik Brecken Gary Tschann

John & Hannah Carrithers with Luke, Liam, and AJ

Eric & Alison Haseman with Annabel and Nicholas

weddings April 13 Meredith Curtiss & Todd Becicka (See photo on last page!)

Would you like to share an original photo or artwork or poetry or a God moment with your Lord of Life faith family? We would love to share it in a future issue as space allows; you are encouraged to contact LifeTIMES Editor Bev Mello.

June 2013 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a

spirit A warm welcome to our newest Lord of Life councilmember, Jeff Mason. Here is a brief summary of his background—

Introducing Jeff Mason

attended St. Olaf College, and my education there was a springboard for the rest of my life. I earned an MBA in accounting at the University of Chicago Graduate School of Business. While attending the U of C, I also met Judy, my wife of 48 years and mother of our children, Amy and Jeffery. I began as a CPA and after leaving public accounting, I held a number of financial executive positions, most recently, the chief financial officer of Featherlite, Inc.

Apart from my business career was the importance of being involved with a church. At almost all of the churches we joined, I served in a number of capacities, including being a member of the church council, a delegate to synod assemblies and a voting member at the church-wide assembly. Faith growth combined with trials experienced in my life have equipped me for my retirement vocation: the development of men’s ministry programs that enable men to grow in their relationship with Jesus Christ. I am chair of the 2B REAL Men ministry team at Lord of Life and represent Lutheran Men in Mission on the LMM Board of Directors.

Lord’s Prayer Sermon Series

his June and July the pastors will be doing a sermon series on the Lord’s Prayer. From “Our Father” to “Amen” they will examine in depth the prayer Jesus gave the disciples when they asked him: “Teach us to pray.” The series will begin on the weekend of June 1-3 and continue through the weekend of July 27-29. Remember that Monday evening services at 7 pm will return June 3 and continue through August 26.

Caring for God’s Creation

he main purpose of the Creation Care Team at Lord of Life is to present factual information about the environment and conduct events to help meet these goals - Earth Day recognition and the Blessing of the Animals are examples of the latter.

Open House Day at All Minnesota State Parks! Saturday, June 8, is Open House Day at all Minnesota state parks. Visitors are admitted free for the entire day. Many state parks will offer programs and events for children and adults so check this website, dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/index.html, for details. See the next issue of LifeTIMES for more information from our Creation Care Team.

June 2013 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a

generosity

april 2013 budget year-to-date Actual

Budget Difference

Total member contributions $1,068,910 $1,021,212 All other

$78,624

Total receipts

$47,698

$91,542 ($12,918)

$1,147,534 $1,112,754

$34,780

Lessons Learned

fter the baptism of his baby brother in church, little Johnny sobbed all the way home in the back seat of the car. His father asked him three times what was wrong. Finally, the boy replied, ‘That pastor said she wanted us brought up in a Christian home, and I want to stay with you guys!’

A monthly update of Congregation Council major events—

Council Corner by Tom Campbell, Congregation Council President

Our children learn much more from how we act than from what we say. Which causes me to wonder what actions they see when it comes to our generosity? I remember watching my dad write out a check every Saturday night and put it in that week’s offering envelope. With direct deposit, stock gifts and other forms of giving it may not be obvious to our children how much we give. Take some time to show them and they will learn the importance of generosity.

During the month of May, Lord of Life participated in its full financial audit provided by the accounting firm of Froehling Anderson. This is done annually to provide independent reasonable assurance that good stewardship is being used in the handling and accounting of church funds and assets as well as making sure that accepted accounting procedures and financial controls are in place.

Lynne Twist in her book “The Soul of Money,” writes: “I challenge you to use the resources that flow through your life toward your highest commitments and ideals, those things you stand for. Use your money in ways that nurture and empower us, and all life, our planet, and future generations. I challenge you to imbue your money with soul – your soul – and let it stand for who you are, your love, your heart, your word, and your humanity.” And let your family see what you’re doing. —Pastor Peter

At the May 5 Congregational Meeting, the following were elected to a 3-year term on the Council: Susan Listberger, Jeff Mason (see article on Page 7), Barb Lindberg, and Tom Campbell.

Lord of Life Weekly Giving — April 2013 $90,000 $80,000 $70,000 $60,000 $50,000 $40,000 $30,000 $20,000 $10,000 $0

finance staff Colleen Anderson, Finance Director, x103, colleen@lordoflife.org Lenora Little, Finance & Stewardship Assistant, x139, lenoral@lordoflife.org Lisa McCarty, Finance Assistant, x151, lisam@lordoflife.org Sandie Saar, Finance Assistant, x101, sandie@lordoflife.org

4/7

4/14

4/21

4/28

Actual $64,444 $58,909 $77,201 $51,952 Budget $65,165 $65,165 $65,165 $65,165

June 2013 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a

adult

memorial blood drive The next blood drive at Lord of Life is Tuesday, June 25, from 2:306 pm. To make an appointment, visit mbc.org/searchdrives, then enter sponsor code 0022. You may also call Lord of Life’s main church office to schedule an appointment. Remember to bring a valid photo ID to the blood drive. Thanks for giving the gift of life!

OWLs Events Thursday, June 6, Annual Picnic: “Big Band Swing” with the 70-member Synod Senior Band (Minneapolis Area Synod of the ELCA). The fun begins rain or shine at noon with a freewill donation lunch. Celebrate summer! Invite a friend to share in the fun, fellowship, and music. Wednesday, June 19: Worship at Rose Arbor beginning at 2 pm

...older, wiser, or Lutheran? Even if you are not, you will be warmly welcomed at all of the OWLs’ events. Sign up for all activities is on the bulletin board near the welcome desk in the narthex. Visit lordoflife.org/owls for more photos as well as stories of recent events. Questions about this vibrant seniors’ ministry? Contact Joyce or Gordy Martin directly at grjsmartin@ embarqmail.com or 763.497.7355.

Thursday, June 20: Sit in the Home Run Porch section, for Minnesota Twins vs. Chicago White Sox. Leave church at 10 am and return about 4:30 pm. Cost is $25 with lunch on your own at the stadium. FULL. Friday, June 21: Service project beginning at 9:30 am in Fellowship Hall labeling LifeTIMES Sunday, June 23: The OWLs will be singing at all three Sunday worship services. Everyone is welcome to “make a joyful noise to our Lord!” Practice is June 20 at 9 am.

save the dates Thursday, July 11: “Ice Cream Social” beginning at 10 am in the Fellowship Hall. Our guest is Paula Thomas. There will be an opportunity to assemble “Grab and Go” bags for Hope Lodge as well as contribute to a freewill donation to cover the expense of the bags. A feel-good day with ice cream and all its trimmings. See you there! Thursday, August 15: Minnesota and the Civil War Minnesota History Center. We’ll explore the role of Minnesota’s men and women on the battlefield and on the homefront in an exhibit drawn on artifacts, firsthand accounts, letters, and diaries. Learn about the everyday lives and often extraordinary witness of Minnesotans during the Civil War. Leave 9 am - return 3 pm. Cost is $12 with lunch on your own at the History Center.

June 2013 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a

On April 18 the OWLs visited Skyrocket Farm, a horse training and riding academy in Medina. Owner Bill Nunn’s hobby of restoring and repainting antique organs has become a large collection of organs, a working carousel and many carousel horses of varying sizes. He repairs the musical parts and the OWLs were treated to lively music by several beautifully restored pieces. This wonderful museum is well worth a visit. After lunch at the Choo Choo Restaurant in Loretto, the OWLs headed back to LOL in what we hoped was the last snowstorm of the season!

adult

—continues from cover page devoted met Crystal Cook and her 6-year-old to helping daughter, Jenna. Crystal talked about her military husband Justin who was a member of the members and Minnesota National Guard. Justin’s unit, veterans and the 257th Military Police Company from Monticello, was responsible for guarding was reaching out enemy combatants. It was very evident that to see if we could help Crystal was proud of Justin’s service to his a military family with a country and looking forward to his safe home renovation project. After return. Daughter Jenna, too, was excited finishing the phone call I returned to the to soon have her Daddy home—especially potluck reporting to Wayne and the rest eager to show him the new home he had of the ministry that we just might have a never seen but just heard about! project that would certainly put the Lions’ donation to good use and in a very grand Gary Modlin compiled a very detailed way as well! spreadsheet with what needed to be done and then proceeded to the Maple Grove The contents of the phone call was that Lowe’s. Gary is very passionate about a wife of a deployed solider from Maple military members and veterans as he Grove had purchased a home, which himself is a retired US Army Lieutenant was on short sale, while her husband Colonel and a Vietnam veteran. Gary was was serving in Afghanistan. This home able to take this passion to Lowe’s and was to be the family’s first home but it explained our mission. The good folks at needed an awful lot of repair before the Lowe’s not only provided the standard 10% city would grant a certificate of occupancy. military discount but also gave additional The father of the wife had been working deep discounts which allowed Gary’s tirelessly on the home to get it ready but spreadsheet to stretch further than normal. nonetheless needed help to get the project With the estimate in hand, findings were completed by the soldier’s return in May. presented and approved by the Maple Our ministry agreed overwhelmingly to Grove Lions and a check was dropped off look into this project to see if we could at my home by Wayne Studer. With $5,000 help. We met the family and inspected worth of material from Lowe’s we set out the home’s needs. Several members of to carefully put together an action plan to the ministry and Lion Wayne Studer

complete the home improvement project before Justin’s scheduled return. I figured with a mid-May return of the soldier we had plenty of time to seek volunteers from within Lord of Life so I proceeded to execute Operation Home Coming with no real sense of urgency. However, that all changed when Crystal informed us Justin’s redeployment got pushed up—he would be back in just about one week! Operation Home Coming went from zero to 100 miles per hour. A few quick calls to Lord of Life members resulted in a mobilized workforce of eager-to-help volunteers. With Gary Modlin providing work direction we were able to complete the necessary demolition, construction, plumbing, and electrical projects within a very short timeframe. With the remaining balance from the $5,000, we picked up a brand new grill which put the finishing touch on a project that I firmly believe had plenty of divine intervention! With less than 12 hours to spare and the touch of a yellow ribbon tied around a tree in his new front yard and his shiny new grill waiting for him, Specialist Justin Cook was HOME! Thanks Be To God! On another divine intervention note, it was discovered that Specialist Cook has Lord of Life roots dating back to the old Bass Lake Road building. His parents belonged

June 2013 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a

adult

to Lord of Life when they lived in Maple Grove. His mother Ginny taught Sunday school and was on the building committee and Justin’s father sang in the choir. Lord of Life’s Military Family Support Ministry began as an outreach to military members, families and veterans. We serve this ministry out of the deep gratitude we have for our military and we pray that however we can serve will be received as a sign of sincere appreciation for the great sacrifices those who wear the uniform do for us on a daily basis. We would like acknowledge the following volunteers and businesses who made Operation Home Coming possible: Ken Carraux

Transformed the Lives of Many by Chris Perman, Lord of Life’s One Mission One World: Tanzania

Joe Claseman, Benjamin Franklin Plumbing (free services) Bill Egeberg Byron Eilertson Jim Hoag, Zero Rez Carpet Cleaning (free services) Keith Hohenstein Travis Johnson, Assistant Manager of Maple Grove Lowe’s…gave deep discounts in addition to the regular military discount Michael Kaplan, Zero Rez Carpet Cleaning (free services) Depes Littlefield Maple Grove Lions Jeremy Mess, Gutter Installation Sub-Contractor to Lowe’s…rearranged his schedule to get this project done first Gary Modlin John, Lucy, Jason and Johan Rodvik Bruce Schmidt, Electrician (free services) Greg Tobias Jeff Vold

...and our local Channel 12 did a great news story on our efforts which can be viewed at lordoflife.org/ militaryfamilysupport. A special thank you to John Rodvik for sharing the story and his wife Lucy for these photos which help tell the story!

torrential downpour beat down against the metal-sheet roof over the newly constructed church in Tanzania, which under normal circumstances would have made hearing anyone speak nearly impossible, however this was no normal occasion. We were at the last stop during the visit to our partner parish in the Iringa Diocese. After spending a couple of days in the village, our small group from Minnesota thought we had seen it all, but in actuality, they had saved the best for last. It was beyond standing room only, with onlookers gazing in through the openair windows around the church. All were decked out in their Sunday best with every color under the sun represented. Throughout the crowd, I could recognize faces from across the village whom must have walked miles just to send us off. Then the rain began. Not just any rain but rain that fell so hard and fast that it gave a new appreciation for the term “rainy season.” The people were not deterred and matched the intensity of the weather outside with their own storm of singing and dancing. All began singing in perfect harmony with only the beat of a drum as their conductor. As I stood amazed and overwhelmed with emotion, it struck me it was not us that they were singing for, but for God. They praised God for the blessing of our partnership, for bringing us together and uniting us in Christ. It was in that moment that I fell in love with Tanzania. As we boarded our vehicle and began to pull away, I had already started to miss this miraculous place. This mission is truly based on relationships and sharing our respective gifts. We have been blessed with so many resources, that what we have shared through One Mission One World: Tanzania has transformed the lives of so many in our partner parish of Ifuwa. Lord of Life has helped to provide places for them to worship, wells for safe and accessible drinking water, agricultural projects for food, and education for their children. In return, they have kept us in their prayers, welcomed us with open arms, and taught us about what it means to be faithful. Thank you all for the gracious support. My wife Heidi and I are excited to help continue and lead this amazing ministry at Lord of Life and are happy to talk with anyone who wants to learn more. You can contact us at lolmissiontz@gmail.com.

This year’s One Mission One World: Tanzania trip is June 15-30. Daily updates will be available at lordoflife.org/tanzania and on Lord of Life’s Facebook page. June 2013 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a

children youth family

Hey, facebook friends— like us on facebook.com/ lolsrhigh!

Sr. High Summer 2013

his summer over 70 youth and adults will be traveling across the country to build houses, share our faith and grow as disciples of Jesus. We call it AWOL for A Work of Love. Please pray for us as we travel, work, and have fun! To follow our travels, go to lordoflife.org/awol.

AWOL: Bozeman, MT—June 14-24

AWOL: South Carolina—July 13-24

summer volunteer opportunities

Hey, senior highers and C3ers! Want to volunteer this summer? We’ve got lots of opportunities for you to serve God and others at Lord of Life! Here are the dates: Adventure Week—June 10-13 (Sr. High only) Preschool VBS Week #1—June 24-27 Preschool VBS Week #2—July 8-11 Club 56 Adventure Day—July 16 (Sr. High only) VBS Week #1—July 22-25 VBS Week #2—July 29-August 1 VBS Week #3—August 5-8 Sign up online at lordoflife.org/cyfsummervol.

jr. high mission trip - june 16-22

As of right now, we have 25 jr. high youth going on the Jr. High Mission Trip. Here is a blog entry from last summer on one of our work days: Monday, June 18, 2012: We scraped and painted a front porch and a little of each other, too. We also took out about six feet of broken back fence and put in a post for a 3-foot gate. We tore out the front door and storm door and put in a new front door. The kids are awesome in using tools like cordless screwdrivers. They even know how to use a posthole digger. We worked with the lady of the house (Lorene) who helped with the painting. Read updates from this year’s trip at lordoflife.org/jhmissiontrip.

jr. high summer bible camp at luther park

We’ll be going to Luther Park in beautiful Danbury, WI. Camp week is an action-packed, high-energy, wild week of adventure for junior highers (completed grades 6-9). You take part in all the wacky activities and hang out with the coolest of counselors while you learn more about your faith. Dates are Sunday-Friday, July 7-12. You can pick up a registration at the Youth Booth or CYF office or register online at lutherpark.com.

June 2013 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a

Third Annual Fun Run/Walk!

here is still time to sign up! Join us on Saturday, June 1 to run, walk or volunteer in support of our CYF summer trips and camps. Get more info and register at lordoflife.org/funrun. Last year over 75 people ran, walked or volunteered at the CYF Fun Run/Walk. It was so fun to see youth, families and adults come together not only to support our CYF summer trips and camps, but also to participate in a healthy, fun event. We hope you can join in this year on Saturday, June 1!

How much water do you think you use daily? How much do you think someone in Africa uses? You might be surprised to learn the facts! • United States – 153 gallons per person per day • United Kingdom – 88 gallons • Asia – 22 gallons • Africa – 12 gallons • Gambia, a country in Africa with one of the lowest average daily uses of water - 1.3 gallons Water is a basic necessity of life, yet it is a limited resource to many. This summer, Vacation Bible School students and their families will learn about the need for safe drinking water. They will hear about the impact a simple water well can have on a community where water shortages bring poverty, disease, and death.

children children youth youth family family

family resources

Would you like help knowing if a particular movie, video game or app is right for your family? What about Instagram and selfimage? Their connection might surprise you. Are there really faith-building apps for your preschooler? There is a new page on the Lord of Life website that can help you become a better informed parent no matter what the age of your children. We are compiling the latest news on faith, current events, social media, and more. You will find articles, websites, videos, and other links that will help your family engage in caring conversations, devotions, family traditions, and service. Stop by often; things are constantly changing! lordoflife.org/familyresources

We will once again try to raise $2,500 for the ELCA Good Gifts program to provide a well for a village desperately in need of safe, clean water. We did it in the summer of 2010 and we can do it again! Visit the displays throughout the summer to find ways you can help. children youth family (cyf) Amanda Clancy (“Clancy”), Middle School, x106, amandac@lordoflife.org Kirstin Delp, Early Childhood and Childcare, x113, kirstind@lordoflife.org Raul Garcia III, AiM, Confirmation (C3) and Grades 7-9, x121, raul@lordoflife.org Julie Hagen, AiM, Grades 1-4, x129, julieh@lordoflife.org Heather Hjelmstad, Ministry of Inclusion, x143, heatherh@lordoflife.org Lynn Leisen, Faith in the Home, x107, lynnl@lordoflife.org Elizabeth Pedersen, Grades 10-12, x130, elizabethp@lordoflife.org Kim Pietrzak, Childcare, x124, kimp@lordoflife.org Pennie Soppeland, CYF Support, x132, pennies@lordoflife.org Debbie Zaic, CYF Office Manager and Registrar, x128, debz@lordoflife.org

June 2013 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a

children youth family

A friendly reminder for all families who are enrolled for the 2013-14 school year: enrollment packets are due by Monday, June 24, 2013.

Finally Summer!

ast month’s LifeTIMES shared details of all CYF activities planned for the summer. For more of those details as well as registration, visit lordoflife.org/summer. Here’s a summary of the dates & doings:

Adventure Week - Grades 1-4, June 10-13 Summer Stretch - Grades 6-9, selected Wednesdays and Thursdays, June 12/13-July 31/August 1 Club 56 Adventure Days - Grades 5-6, June 11 to BaseCamp; July 16 to Valleyfair; August 13 to Cascade Bay Water Park

And for other families, we do continue to take registration for the 2013-14 school year. For more information please contact us at kingdom@lordoflife.org or call 763.420.5015 x127.

AWOL (A Work of Love) - Grades 10-12, June 14-24 in Bozeman, Montana; July 13-24 in South Carolina Jr. High Mission Trip - Grades 6-9, June 16-22 in Rockford, IL Preschool Vacation Bible School - Ages 3–entering Kindergarten in the fall, June 24-27; July 8-10 Elementary Camp - Grades 3-6, July 7-12 at Shores of St. Andrew Half Pint Camp - Grades 1-3, July 8-10 and July 10-12 at Shores of St. Andrew Jr. High Camp - Grades 6-9, July 7-12 at Luther Park

Relief. Development. Education. Advocacy.

Elementary Vacation Bible School - Grades 1-6, July 22-25; July 29-August 1; August 5-8

$1,006.55 was given to the ELCA World Hunger Appeal through our Lenten banks this year. Thank you.

Family Camp - August 2-4 at Shores of St. Andrew

June 2013 “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 PRAYER NETWORK prayernetwork@lordoflife.org FACEBOOK facebook.com/lordoflifelutheran V isit lordoflife.org/lolstaff for more specific contact information plus photos of all Lord of Life staff.

Serving Together at Hope Lodge

od’s work is very evident in my life. As a Christian, I am always looking for ways to grow in my faith and to serve others in whatever way that I can. As a mother, I want the same for our children. I want our children to know that regardless of their size or their age, they can play an active role in their faith journey. Part of that journey is through service. It is sometimes difficult to find volunteer opportunities that our family can participate in together. We deliver Meals on Wheels twice a month and that has been such a wonderful and very rewarding experience. Some of our best conversations have occurred as we drive from home-to-home. I was looking for more opportunities to serve with our children. We have helped with Feed My Starving Children spreading god’s love and The Sandwich Hi. I am Ellie and I am nine years old. I like Project. Both experiences to go to Hope Lodge. Hope Lodge is a place at Lord of Life were for people receiving treatment for cancer. fabulous. After looking It is very fun to go there. You get to cook, at the information in serve food and help clean up. One person the bulletin for several told me that they especially like when Lord months, I finally decided of Life comes because everybody is nice to contact Paula Thomas and we always have great food. I like to to see if Hope Lodge volunteer because you get to help people would be an opportunity and spread God’s love. I think people of in which my family all ages might like to go to Hope Lodge could serve together. because it is a very fun way to help others. Paula confirmed that children would be more -Ellie, Jana’s daughter than welcome. We Amelia & Ellie serving at Hope Lodge were very eager for our experience—it turned out to be fun and fulfilling for all of us. Hope Lodge is a home for cancer patients and their caregivers while they are receiving treatment for cancer. It is a beautiful facility and God’s work is truly alive there. We brought food and served dinner with others from Lord of Life. The patients and their caregivers were so appreciative. One of the patients said, “It is really a treat for us when Lord of Life comes. There is always so much great food and everybody is always so nice and supportive. I have even gone out to your church before because I have felt such a special connection with your people.” Her words touched me and I was so proud to be a part of Lord of Life. We have enjoyed serving at Hope Lodge a couple of times now and look forward to many more opportunities there. I am grateful for all of the opportunities that we have available to work together to spread God’s love.

Lord of Life’s Bake & Craft Sale donations to Hope Lodge provided cookware and other kitchen needs. Those donations are shown here along with volunteers (left to right) Michelle Welinski, Marcia Plaschko, Shar and Jenna Moseng, Kay Mourer, Paula Thomas, Terry Robertson, Steve Monson, Stacy Sparks

—Jana Morton, Amelia & Ellie’s mom

June 2013 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a

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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 July issue is June 1. Copyright 2013 Lord of Life Lutheran Church

caught reading lifetimes

Caught reading LifeTIMES before Meredith & Todd’s wedding are Diana, Michael, Todd, Meredith, and Judy. Congrats to the bride & groom!

At the Washington, DC Jefferson Memorial’s tidal basin during cherry blossom time, Cynthia Moore is caught reading LifeTIMES!

June 2013 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a