June 2016 LifeTIMES

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

LifeTIMES

June 2016

LO R D O F LI FE LU T HE R A N C H UR CH (ELCA) 7401 County Road 101, Maple Grove, MN 55311-4313 phone 763.420.5015 fax 763.420.7286 web lordoflife.org Visit lordoflife.org/staff for a full staff listing with photos. prayernetwork@lordoflife.org

office@lordoflife.org

/lordoflife

/lordoflife /lolcyf

/lordoflifeelca

/lordoflifeluth

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 S TAF F Rev. Sarah Bunge, Pastor of Evangelism and Worship, sarahb@lordoflife.org Rev. Dr. Karen Geisendorfer-Lindgren, Pastor of Programming, Learning, and Missions, karengl@lordoflife.org Rev. Peter Geisendorfer-Lindgren, Senior Pastor, peter@lordoflife.org Rev. Karen Sue Greimel, Pastor of Pastoral Care, ksgreimel@lordoflife.org Rev. Charles ‘Chick’ Lane, Pastor of Stewardship and Generosity, chickl@lordoflife.org Rev. David McCarty, Pastor of Outreach and Missions, davem@lordoflife.org Rev. Donna Rohrer, Pastor of Adult Education, donnar@lordoflife.org Kari Lyn Wampler, Pastoral Intern, karilynw@lordoflife.org

See Page 14 for information about Pastor Taylor and Julie Wilson’s recognition weekend!

june worship and music June 4/5/6 Pastor Peter Geisendorfer-Lindgren Saturday: Praise Band Sunday: North Star Boys’ Choir Monday: David Frank June 11/12/13 Pastor Sarah Bunge Saturday: Praise Band with Karl Hinkle Sunday: Karl Hinkle Monday: David Frank June 18/19/20 Pastor Peter Geisendorfer-Lindgren Saturday: Praise Band Sunday: Lord of Life Men’s Chorus Monday: David Frank June 25/26/27 Pastor Dave McCarty Saturday: Praise Band Sunday: Sarah Healy Monday: Dawn Allen

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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 during June/July/August (more details about summer worship on next page)

TABLE O F CO N T E N T S Worship & Music / Pastor’s Article.............................................................. Pages 2-3 Celebrate Recovery / Family of Faith........................................................... Pages 4-5 Summer Classes / Generosity....................................................................... Pages 6-7 Lord of Life Ministries................................................................................ Pages 8-14 Karing Kingdom Preschool............................................................................. Page 15

COVER PH O T O

Worship and Music

Under a white clematis arbor, this “Praying for a world of peace” rock identifies the starting point for Lord of Life’s prayer path. Created by Nathan Jorgenson as an Eagle Scout project in 2007, this labyrinth is a wonderful place for contemplative prayer and reflection. Especially during Minnesota’s summer months, everyone at Lord of Life is encouraged to enjoy the beautiful backyard.

Bring your coffee & donut down and enjoy the view!

2 June 2016

Third Wednesday, June 15, worship at 1 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, June 19, worship at 10 am at Good Samaritan - Ambassador in New Hope Worship and music schedules are subject to change.

This Summer, Worship the Lord!

by Pastor Sarah Bunge Worship the Lord with gladness; come into His presence with singing.

(Psalm 100)

I love worship! Ever since I was a small child, I would look forward to gathering with God’s people and seeing what would unfold. And now as Lord of Life’s pastor of worship and evangelism, I have the privilege of planning all the worship services.

A lot of programs take a break for the summertime, but not worship! We actually add a worship service on Mondays at 7 pm. And new this year—we’ll be taking worship outside! Weather permitting, Monday evening worship will be in Lord of Life’s backyard praising God in the glorious, and original, sanctuary. Every worship service this summer will include a children’s sermon, when kids will be invited to come forward.

 Summer worship focuses on Jesus’ parables. Some of these I’ll bet you know by heart:

Prodigal Son, Lost Sheep, Good Samaritan. But others may not be as familiar: Treasure Chest, Lost Coin, Bridesmaids. With different preachers and a different parable each week—we hope you’ll enjoy this summer worship series!

 Summer music includes an exciting variety of musical genres along with favorites from years

past. You, too, can join in by adding your voice to the men’s (June 19) or women’s (July 31) pickup choir—simply come for rehearsal at 7 pm on the Wednesday prior and sing that Sunday.

 Mark your calendar for an intergenerational musical production “Gloria!” by

Bunce (not Bunge!) Backyard Productions. This gospel drama will be our worship on Saturday, July 2, at 5:30 pm and Sunday, July 3, at 9:45 am.

 Sunday Night Live! worship will continue through the summer—watch the website for dates.

Whenever and wherever you stop and praise God this summer, God will hear you and God will be glorified. A blessed summer to you!

Lord of Life Summer Worship Series—

The Parables of Jesus June

Sower and the Seeds Wedding Feast Hidden Treasure and the Pearl Prodigal Son Workers in the Vineyard

Pastor’s Article

May 28/29 June 4/5/6 June 11/12/13 June 18/19/20 June 25/26/27

June 2016 3

Relay for Life … is now a short six-hour event!

Now is the time to join Lord of Life’s Friends and Families team at Relay for Life on Friday, July 15.

The event will begin at 6 pm and end at midnight. All of the fun activities will still be held including the lighting of luminarias and the silent auction. A big thank you to Word for Women members who joyfully created 16 beautiful baskets for the silent auction.

Celebrate Recovery

On April 2, Lord of Life was honored to host a national Celebrate Recovery one-day event. Our volunteers rose to the occasion (literally, their day began at 6:30 am) and were recognized as the friendliest, most enthusiastic, organized, and fun group the national team has ever worked with—way to go!

Thank you to all of the 75 volunteers.

The event was attended by more than 450 people from around the Midwest. Approximately 200 were here to learn firsthand how to start a Celebrate Recovery ministry in their church. The other 250 already have a Celebrate Recovery up and running, and they received additional training and support. We learned about the new mental health initiative that will be coming to Celebrate Recovery late summer. It was a great time of worship, connecting, learning and praising. I could go on and on …

Participants are encouraged to raise $100. This can be done by way of a simple donation. It has nothing to do with how many laps you make.

With each $10 donation, you will receive a luminaria bag to decorate in honor or memory of a special person. You can decorate this bag yourself, or have someone from the committee do it for you.

There are plenty of opportunities to volunteer at the event. From filling luminaria bags with sand, checking in participants, preparing and serving the survivor dinner, to working in the concession stand.

Visit lordoflife.org/relayforlife to sign up for a shift.

If you have never been to Relay for Life, this year would be a great time to come and see what it’s all about!

For details, visit lordoflife.org/relayforlife.

Celebrate Recovery

If you have questions about Relay for Life

4 June 2016

—Michelle Welinski (center) with national representatives of Celebrate Recovery, Mary and Mac Owen

or how to get luminaria bags, please contact Michelle Welinski at michellew@ lordoflife.org or 763.420.5015 x118.

Lord of Life’s

Family Faith of

baptisms

bereavements

At Lord of Life, we baptize individuals at any age.

The next baptism class will be Sunday, June 12, at 11 am. No registration is necessary. To schedule a baptism, please call the church office (763.420.5015).

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

April 10

Avery Marais Asmussen

Clara Grace Cochran

Gavin William Geatz

Gavin Michael Murphy

Cooper David Steinman April 16

Brooklyn Ann Rath April 17

Ella Lee Ferguson

Kollyns Jo Kurr

Theodore Pollei Shermock April 23

Britta Kay Erickson

Maxwell Craig Erickson

Lyla Eloise Stavlo April 24

Elsie Jo Buchholz

Isla Marie Grussing

Vincent James Lindquist

Cooper Jeffery May

Vivian Lenny Opitz

Asher Figlio Wolfe

Nicole Lynn Wright

Ryan Vinton Wright April 30

Lucas Bryan Klick

Thomas Curtis Wickham

Brenda Gust and family at the death of her mother Andrea Guy and family at the death of her father Todd Leyse and family at the death of his father Dave Lund and family at the death of his mother Darlene Mickelberg and family at the death of her brother Steven Norcutt and family at the death of his mother Dale Novak and family at the death of his father Todd Rizner and family at the death of his father Gina Thomas and family at the death of her father

welcome to new members Jesse & Amy Hadley with Alexa, Adrian, and Ashton Dan & Drea Heggestuen Kyle & Logan Hoegh with Nellie and Nash Jacob Leiby & Ashley Marschel Ryan & Leslie Mortensen Tom & Marla Tangen Membership at Lord of Life means you make a commitment to be an active participant in congregational life. The expectation of not only new members but all members—is to worship regularly, grow in faith, serve others, and support the church and its programs financially. For more information, contact Karen Klevar (karenk@lordoflife.org or 763.420.5015 x116) or visit lordoflife.org/membership.

You are invited to become a part of the Lord of Life family of faith.

Family of Faith June 2016 5

Lifelong Learning at Lord of Life Lutheran (L5)—

Summer L5 Class

by Pastor Donna Rohrer As shared in the May issue, a new Monday evening L5 class learning about the Protestant Reformation begins on June 6 at 6 pm. The 500th anniversary of the Reformation is in 2017. We’ll also use the movie, Luther, to help understand what happened in the 16th century with names, places, and dates. Classes are every Monday in June.

In July, we’ll learn about God’s promises to Abraham, Moses, and David. We will see what God promised them, what were God’s expectations for them, and how these covenants have been a foundation for our faith today. There will not be a class on Monday, July 4.

Summer Prayer Time During the summer months on Sundays, we are encouraging prayer from 11 am-12 noon in the Prayer Chapel. Come as the Holy Spirit moves you. This prayer time will be self-led, without formal teaching. A prayer topic will be provided each week as a suggested springboard for your prayers along with continued weekly prayers for our church.

Please contact Pastor Karen Sue at ksgreimel@lordoflife.org with any questions.

All Monday evening classes will finish in time for you to attend Monday night worship at 7 pm.

No registration is necessary. Come to learn more about your faith!

Enjoy quiet fellowship with others while painting—

Beauty in God’s World

by Susan Manrodt When I retired, I realized I had time to do some things I have always wanted to do, yet never had time for them.

I think a lot of people say that, but I was determined to start painting and the best way for me to commit to something is to take a class where I had to show up, and maybe do homework.

I have experienced so many of God’s wonders—from the majesty of the Rocky Mountains, to the variety of sea life while snorkeling off the Florida Keys. I’ve also spent many hours visiting art museums in many cities around the world. I thought expressing the beauty of God’s creation through watercolor painting would be fun—and it is! I have been taking classes and been inspired by how the teacher uses paint to make the painting come alive. I have made many friends who, like me, are struggling to learn and find their own style.

Summer Classes

Learning to paint has made me more aware of the beauty in God’s world. The way I see things now—the colors, the light and shadow, the variety of trees and plants, the sky and its many hues—are always changing. Painting enriches my life and increases my thankfulness to God for all He has made.

6 June 2016

Throughout the summer, stop in Fellowship Hall to view a casual Lord of Life art gallery, Beauty in God’s World, featuring Susan’s work (at left), along with many others.

All are welcome to join in the painting class at 9 am every Tuesday in the lower level art room. No need to register.

A Summer of (Stewardship) Parables

by Pastor Chick Lane Worship at Lord of Life this summer is going to focus on Jesus’ parables. Jesus told many incredible parables, some longer and some shorter. Given how often Jesus talked about money and stewardship, it is no surprise that a number of His parables are also about this topic.

Jesus’ Parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) isn’t often thought of as a stewardship parable—but it is. The good Samaritan encounters a man in need and shares his time, his talents, and his treasure to help the man. He doesn’t walk by on the other side of the road as two others have done. He doesn’t just throw a little money at the problem. He gives his entire self to help someone who desperately needs it. He is a total steward.

The Parable of the Rich Fool (Luke 12:13-21) exhibits the dangers of excessive devotion to money. The Parable of the Laborers in the Vineyard (Matthew 20:1-16) gives us a look into God’s economy. The Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30) dramatically portrays the importance of using well that which God has entrusted into our care (and that is everything).

The list of parables that are in one way or another stewardship parables goes on and on. This summer I encourage you to listen to these parables with your ‘stewardship ears’ on. How might these often familiar stories surprise you if you listen to them with this question, “What do I hear in this parable when I ask myself, ‘What is Jesus saying here about how I am to live with all that I have, since all of that is God’s, entrusted into my care, into my management, into my stewardship?’ ” I think when you make this a summer of (stewardship) parables, you will be in for some exciting surprises.

See Pastor Sarah’s article on Page 3 for more details about summer worship and music.

Budget Year-to-date April 2016

From a congregational meeting, it was suggested to share staff photos of each department within Lord of Life. This is the fourth photo.

Lord of Life’s hospitality/building services team includes Shane Awker (seated, left) and Lori Schwartz (seated, right). Standing behind are (left to right) Riley Brown, Sarah Ambrose, and Rob Treptau. Bon appètit!

Actual

Total member contributions All other

Difference

$1,171,359 $1,127,647 $91,426

Total receipts

Budget

$43,712

$91,053

$373

$1,262,785 $1,218,700

$44,085

Lord of Life Weekly Giving — April 2016 $100,000 $80,000 $60,000 $40,000 $20,000 $0

4/3 4/10 4/17 4/24

Generosity

Actual $89,804 $70,269 $67,340 $61,097 Budget $68,127 $68,127 $68,127 $68,129

June 2016 7

Thursday, June 2, from 4 to 6 pm—

Fare for All

Fare for All, from The Food Group, is an opportunity to buy fresh fruit/vegetable packs and frozen meat packs at a substantial discount.

Your purchases help The Food Group save money by purchasing food at larger volume discounts. Come to Samaritan Hall from 4-6 pm on Thursday, June 2. This is also a volunteer opportunity for C3 service hours. For more details about The Food Group and this program, visit lordoflife.org/thefoodgroup.

Several OWLs enjoyed a recent visit to Minneapolis’ Mindekirken, complete with rosemaling decorations in their basement.

For photos of all OWLs’ events, visit lordoflife.org/owls—

Older Wiser Lutherans june

2B REAL Men Events breakfast

On Saturday, June 25, 7:30 am, join in for a great breakfast and Pastor Dave Engman of Breakthrough Ministries as guest speaker.

He’ll present his ministry and potential service opportunities. Breakthrough Ministries is a non-profit charitable organization that provides help for those in need in Minneapolis/St. Paul.

Activities include providing meals to those who are homeless on Sunday evenings and distributing fruit, vegetables, and other food on the 2nd and 4th Thursday of every month.

service

Serve breakfast at Sharing and Caring Hands in Minneapolis on Saturday, June 11. Meet at Lord of Life at 7:30 am to carpool to Mary’s Place and return by about 11 am. We need 10-12 people for this service project.

cancer support group

Recently diagnosed with or in remission from cancer? Join in with other Lord of Life men on the first Monday of every month at 7 pm. Check the monitor for what room we’ll be meeting in.

All are welcome and encouraged to attend.

To sign up for events or to learn more details, see the bulletin board or visit lordoflife.org/realmen.

Wednesday, June 15: Worship service at Arbor Lakes at 1 pm and/or Rose Arbor Assisted Living at 2:30 pm Thursday, June 16: Munsinger Clemens Gardens in St. Cloud.

Immerse yourself in a truly unique botanical experience. Awaken your senses, delight in natural beauty as you stroll the winding brick pathways. Cost is $14.50 which includes a buffet lunch at Pizza Ranch. We leave church at 9 am and return by 4 pm.

Friday, June 24: LifeTIMES labeling in Fellowship Hall at 9:30 am ... coffee’s on!

save the date

Thursday, July 7: Young and Old is the theme. There are children and youth without beds right in our community.

Project Manager Kevin Lenz of Beds for Kids, from Albertville/ St. Michael’s Rotary Club, will share how they are meeting this need. Lord of Life’s representative for New Hope’s Good Samaritan - Ambassador, Georgia Helvick, will encourage us to remember seniors with special needs. Come and celebrate our blessings beginning at noon in Fellowship Hall with a freewill donation lunch.

Thursday, July 14 (note date change): Come join in as we travel to the History Theatre in St. Paul to see the musical, Glensheen, about the Congdon murders at their Duluth mansion. Cost is $30 plus lunch on your own at the St. Paul Hotel before the show. Don’t miss it!!

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 8

Thursday, June 2: A Joyful Heart Makes a Cheerful Face is the theme of the OWLs’ annual picnic … rain or shine! Our guest is inspirational singer Roy Hope. Roy and wife, Rose, began Roy Hope ministries in 1971. He has performed hundreds of concerts in the U.S. and Canada plus in his father’s native country, Norway. Good fellowship, good food, and good music to lighten your heart are on the menu. We begin with a freewill donation lunch at noon—see you there!

June 2016

A new Lord of Life One Mission One World (1M1W) ministry—

God’s Work in Namibia

by Kent Dirks Namibia lies in the southern region of the African continent along the western coast. It is a young country, independent since 1990, with a multi-party parliamentary democracy. With a population of 2.1 million people and a land area approximately twice the size of California, it is one of the least densely populated countries in the world, with one person for every 6.5 square miles. In partnership with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in the Republic of Namibia (ELCRN), 1M1W: Namibia’s mission is to ensure access to education for Namibia’s orphaned and vulnerable children.

Having visited the schools of these children twice in the last two years, I’ve seen countless examples of how God is working in their lives.

Imagine my first visit there with a team of six other men to be the hands and feet of Christ, in temperatures exceeding 95°! Our strength and enthusiasm was beginning to fade after a few days of hard labor.

However, the young boys living there were not satisfied to simply be served. They saw the service we offered and were compelled to do the same for the school and the betterment of their fellow students. At the end of each school day, these boys helped us with joyful hearts. Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength! [Isaiah 40:31a]

Kent (standing at left) working on the fence surrounding the children’s hostel.

For more information about this exciting new Lord of Life ministry, visit lordoflife.org/namibia or contact Kent Dirks (Kent.Dirks@live.com).

20/30 Vision

We’re Lord of Lifers, around the ages of 20 or 30, who want to build friendships with others who share the same faith/values. We also want to develop a more personal relationship with Jesus and together learn more about the word of God. Hallelujah Happy Hour is the last Wednesday of the month at 6:30 pm—we meet at local restaurants for dinner and fellowship. We encourage you to join in!

For more information about 20/30 Vision events, including links to the 20/30 Vision Facebook group, visit lordoflife.org/2030vision.

St. Olaf Yard Sale

Yee-haw!

by Dale Mallberg and Michael Yu In previous issues of LifeTIMES, we’ve shared the benefits of volunteering as well as where the funds are distributed. There is still time for you to sign-up and help the Military Family Support Ministry (MFSM). With your help, we will have another great year!

For more information and a “SignUpGenius Volunteer Link,” visit lordoflife.org/militaryfamilysupport.

Lord of Life Ministries

needed by June 7, please!

Donations are wanted for St. Olaf ’s yard sale on Saturday, June 11. Proceeds from the yard sale will benefit youth attending summer camp. Be sure to visit the yard sale at our partner church at 2901 Emerson Avenue North, Minneapolis, for one-of-a-kind treasures and trinkets, clothes, furniture, and more.

If you would like to donate items, please bring them to Lord of Life’s Service Center through June 7. Thank you!

The Hamel Rodeo is July 7-10—

June 2016

9

This past January, two University of Minnesota health care administration graduate students, Anne Jensen and Danny Plooster, and I, went to Ilula Lutheran Hospital in Tanzania. My first mission trip to Tanzania was in 2006— and it launched Global Health Administration Partners (GHAP). Lord of Life also sponsored Mr. Alamu Kikoti to complete his master’s degree in health care administration and return as Ilula’s hospital administrator. In this article, Anne shares the story of her five-week mission experience in Tanzania.

—Cindy Wilke, former Lord of Life member and founder of GHAP

My Chance to Make a Difference

by Anne Jensen Sometimes it takes me a little while to process experiences—working in Tanzania is a great example. After returning home, people asked me how it went. All I could muster was, “really great,” or, “loved it.” Now that it’s been a few months, I’m ready to share a more complete review of my experiences at Ilula Lutheran Hospital.

When we arrived, I was ready to hit the ground running. This was my chance to make a difference. For several days we became acclimated to daily operations: patient rounds, interviewing staff, and communicating with Administrator Kikoti about the most pressing projects. Days turned into a week and a half. I felt as though I was learning a lot, yet it also felt like the project wasn’t going anywhere. I remained upbeat and soon we had a goal: help medical records staff transition from a paper logbook of clinic visits to an electronic Excel version with a searchable master patient list for 35,000+ files. Not exactly a flashy project, but I was invigorated by a challenge and soldiered on.

As soon as we had this goal, Danny and Cindy had to leave, so it was up to me to ensure the project was carried out. I am a first-year graduate student and felt a lot of pressure to deliver a great result. I spent every day in the medical records room working with staff to register patients, make new patient files, or dig through dusty piles to find existing ones. After the clinic closed, I would sneak back into the records room to confirm all patients for that day had been correctly recorded and to knock out some of those thousands of patient files. It didn’t take many three-hour nights of sleep to realize I would never be able to finish this project alone. I was often unable to read Swahili names or towns and sometimes critical information, such as age and gender, were missing. Rather than give up completely, I narrowed the project scope to the training and development of a procedure for staff to enter patient data so that all records will be in the computer before 2017. I learned that a small improvement focusing on staff partnership must be implemented incrementally, and in a specific area of importance, so that it can really make a long-term difference.

Apart from the realization that I could not, in fact, save the world in five weeks, my biggest takeaway is that administrators do have a very important place in global health care. What I saw and did in Tanzania cemented my conviction that solid management principles are critical to running a hospital. I would argue that efficiency and process flow management are even more important in under-resourced settings. It was incredibly empowering to realize that I have something of value to offer. Cindy had that same epiphany many years ago—I could not be more grateful for her guidance and support. This mission experience has affirmed my commitment to ensure high quality health care becomes the right of every person.

For more details about Lord of Life’s One Mission One World: GHAP, visit lordoflife.org/ghap.

Top Photo: Anne teaching at a Tanzanian Christian hospital conference Left: Danny and Anne with Administrator Alamu Kikoti’s youngest children, Meritor and Ethron

Lord of Life Ministries

Bottom: Anne, Cindy, Ilula’s Medical Director Dr. Savelo, Danny

10 June 2016

From Greg and Cheryl Myhr— The World Mission Prayer League (WMPL) has been a part of our lives for almost 20 years. Most people are unaware of this amazing Lutheran community, located right here in the Twin Cities. We are often asked what attracted us to this organization and why we have supported their work for so long.

First and foremost to us, WMPL fulfills the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20) by spreading

the good news of Jesus Christ throughout the world. They focus on the unreached people who have not yet heard about Jesus.

Secondly, they focus on prayer as the method to advance their mission. They pray daily for the specific needs of the ministry. Any and every need is bathed in prayer along with every thanksgiving.

WMPL is truly a praying league, not just of missionaries, but of over

Dear Lord of Life— Blessings and greetings from the other side of the world—in China!

I would like to share a story about a friendship that I developed back when we lived in Central Asia from 2008-11. “Leah” and I became friends rather quickly when we first moved to Asia. She had a little weekend English school and hoped that some of us native English speakers could help promote the school. We did go to the school at Christmas time one year, but Leah and I continued to connect regularly just for fun.

There were a few opportunities for me to briefly share how God helps in difficult situations. But I mostly just tried to be a supportive friend to Leah as she walked through a divorce, pursued online dating, met a man from the States, and eventually decided to marry him. She is now living in the States and within the past few months, Leah contacted me to say that she was diagnosed with breast cancer. She also unloaded feelings of inadequacy since she hasn’t found a job yet. She was so distraught. For the first time, I felt that I could share with her more deeply regarding trusting Him with her life and finding her value, not from her ability to contribute financially, but from the value His love gives her. We communicated several times. I also put her in touch with a close friend in the States who loves Him and went through breast cancer.

Some weeks ago, we received good news. Leah’s surgery was successful with no need for further treatment. We praise our Father for His mercy and continue to ask that she would see that He is calling her to put trust in Him because where else can she go? It is only He who has “the words of eternal life (John 6:68).”

6,000 praying members.

Our family thanks all of you for your continued prayers and support as we share His good news through our daily lives and creating ‘community’ in Central Asia.

God is good. All the time. He

Blessings!

would like us to join in the conversation by praying and by reaching out to others and sharing

Kristi Thomas WMPL

the good news of the Gospel.

Lord of Life Ministries

To learn more about WMPL, please feel free to contact us at gcmyhr@embarqmail.com or visit the WMPL website: wmpl.org.

The Thomas Family (left to right) Brooke, Kristi, Jenna, and Craig World Mission Prayer League

June 2016

11

Faith Formation registration for 2016-17 is now open!

Vacation Bible School (VBS)—

Summer VBS

Church School (2 years-6th grade): lordoflife.org/churchschool

There is still room for you to register for VBS for all children who have completed K-grade 5. VBS is held three identical weeks: July 18-21, July 25-28, and August 1-4.

C3 is Christ/Community/ Confirmation (7th-9th grade): lordoflife.org/C3.

For C3 and High Schoolers—

Volunteer Opportunities

Looking for ways 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: Preschool-K VBS Week 1:

June 20-23

Preschool-K VBS Week 2:

June 27-30

VBS Week 1:

July 18-21

VBS Week 2:

July 25-28

VBS Week 3:

August 1-4

In VBS, faith is nurtured through play, music, games, crafts, Bible stories, and more. Families join us for Root Beer Float Night on the last day of VBS, with counselors and students sharing skits and songs based on the theme. We also need help hosting some of the counselors for evening meals and/or provide housing for the camp staff during the week. Please contact Kirstin Delp (kirstind@lordoflife.org) if you can help!

Sign up at lordoflife.org/summer!

Summer Nights

All middle school and high school youth are invited to hang out in the church’s backyard for a bonfire with s’mores, games, music, and fun with friends! First and third Tuesdays every summer month from 7-9 pm. No registration required.

Lord of Life Ministries

Visit lordoflife.org/ summernights.

12 June 2016

Bible Camp

Something new this year is at Shores of St. Andrew! All ages (grades 1-12) will be attending camp together. Campers enjoy a fun-filled week with new friends, worship, games, swimming, campfires, and growing in faith! Still some spots available; visit lordoflife.org/summer.

Half Pint (completed grades 1-3):

July 10-12, $210

Elementary (completed grades 3-5):

July 10-15, $420

Middle School (completed grades 6-8):

July 10-15, $420

High School (completed grades 9-12):

July 10-13, $252

My Experience as a C3 Leader

by Carrie Agre

This is my seventh year leading a C3 group. It started as an effort to become involved in my own children’s confirmation. I struggled. I was quite sure this was not for me. I finished the commitment as a parent and decided I would move on and look for another volunteer opportunity.

The Agre Family (left to right) Joe, Allison, Mata, Carrie & Steve

But in 2014, my neighbor girl approached me and asked if I would consider leading her C3 group. I was honored she asked me. I prayed about it. I prayed more. I felt a push by the Holy Spirit to try this again. What a joy it has been! The depth of our discussions has pushed us all to grow in faith. I feel strongly that these girls have taught me more than I could have ever imagined. We challenge ourselves to apply our faith to daily life.

I give my neighbor a ride most Wednesdays and she always thanks me. She told me she loves coming to C3 because we make the lessons fun!

Why I became a C3 leader—

And Why I Will Do It Again

by Jenny Rogalski I became a C3 leader because I have a desire for my own children to acquire a strong faith and a deep relationship with Jesus. Therefore, I volunteered to lead my oldest child’s small group.

I have been blessed as a leader in so many different ways.

The relationship with my son, Jake, has grown in a way that I believe would not have been possible if I hadn’t been a leader. I’ve been able to be part of important conversations that allow me to gain understanding and insight—not only of my child—but of the group as a whole. Now I can relate in terms of how they (as a generation) feel about life’s topics and struggles.

I’ve also been able to expand my own faith journey through studying weekly lessons in preparation for leading the group.

My group inspires me each week to be a better person and lead-byexample for them and my family. They also make me laugh with their stories and spirited interactions.

I am so proud of each of my group members—and I am in awe when I see how the Holy Spirit is working in and through them. In fact, each student is participating in a mission trip this summer (several for the first time). God is great!

Jason & Jenny Rogalski with Jake (15) and Jordyn (12)

Lord of Life Ministries

To learn more about becoming a C3 leader, contact Neil Christians (neilc@lordoflife.org).

Thanks to Carrie & Jenny for their articles!

June 2016 13

Farewell and Blessings

to Pastor Taylor, Julie, and Natalie Wilson!

Saturday, June 18, and Sunday, June 19, during worship—we will pray for the Wilson family and this next step in their adventure.

We will bless them during worship and have a reception in Fellowship Hall following services.

This summer we are going to pray for every student in our summer programs. Want to pray for a student? It’s as easy as 1-2-3!

1. Take a bracelet from the display in the narthex 2. Wear your bracelet throughout the summer -or- place it in an area where you will see it every day. You might place it on your bedside table, your vehicle’s rear view mirror or on your keychain—somewhere you’ll see it every day to remind you to pray.

3. Pray for your student by name

Julie, Natalie, and Pastor Taylor will be moving to Moorhead, Minnesota. Pastor Taylor is assigned to the Northwest Minnesota Synod and looks forward to serving in a congregation. Julie will be serving as director of children’s ministry at Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd. Julie’s last official day at Lord of Life is June 21. Natalie looks forward to being closer to her cousins.

Different colors represent different summer programs.

Purple bracelets are for children in VBS and Adventure Week. Orange bracelets are for students in missions such as Summer Stretch, A Work of Love (AWOL), and the middle school mission trip. Lilac bracelets are for children and youth going to camp at Shores of St. Andrew.

Please stop and grab a bracelet so together we can blanket all of our students in prayer this summer. As in 1 Thessalonians 1:2, “We always give thanks to God for all of you and mention you in our prayers.”

Summer Service Project

Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA)—

long-drop latrines

About 2.5 billion people—roughly 37% of the world’s population—still lack what many of us take for granted: access to adequate sanitation. In developing countries, 80% of diseases are caused by unsafe water and poor sanitation, including inadequate facilities. Access to sanitation, the practice of good hygiene, and a safe water supply could save the lives of 1.5 million children a year. A carefully installed household latrine, along with training in hygiene and maintenance, leads to a healthier, safer community for all.

Please join this summer’s Vacation Bible School students in raising funds to support the ELCA Good Gifts project to provide long-drop latrines at $150 each. Visit the display near the main office or community.elca. org/elca-goodgifts/water.

Thank you for your support.

14 June 2016

God’s Work. Our Hands.

transforming the world

ELCA World Hunger has been working to address hunger and poverty through education, advocacy, relief, and development for 42 years. From microloans to health clinics, water wells to animal husbandry, your gifts to ELCA World Hunger support innovative solutions that get at the root causes of hunger. And they don’t stop there. Lutherans are engaged in advocacy and hunger education to act and speak in ways that can make a difference. Through this comprehensive approach, Lord of Life addresses hunger from all angles— locally and around the world. For more details, visit ELCA.org/hunger.

Lord of Life raised $884.87 to support this mission through Lenten Hunger Banks this spring.

Thank you!

Latrine photo courtesy of Lutheran World Relief

Lord of Life Ministries

Prayer Bracelets

June Bible Verse: He has told you, O mortal, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God? (Micah 6:8)

Happy June!

by Karing Kingdom Director Angie Scheibel It’s hard to believe that it is nearly summer—so many fun and exciting things to look forward to in the warm months ahead. It is also a time for us to reflect on the past school year.

Your Hand in My Hand

by Mark Sperring and Britta Teckentrup A young mouse discovers changing seasons and a wondrous world while walking with a loving parent.

During the 2015-16 school year, Karing Kingdom Preschool reevaluated how we were giving to others in the community. Although we have always done something approximately every other month to either thank or assist others in need, we felt it was time to make it an active part of our curriculum. We renamed our mission, The Kindness Project. Each month we do several different activities; For more it has been such a rewarding endeavor for students, information about families, and staff. Here are some of the recipients: Karing Kingdom Preschool, Sole Care for Souls, The Salvation Army, Art Buddies, please contact us at Mittens on a Mission, The Ronald McDonald House, kingdom@lordoflife.org or Nourishing Our Neighbors, CROSS Kid Packs, Operation Christmas Child, Make-a-Wish Foundation, call 763.420.5015 x127.

The American Cancer Society’s Hope Lodge, Love My Melon, and Make a Difference Day. Worshiping at Arbor Lakes and Rose Arbor was a special community experience for preschoolers and seniors alike. We also sent thank you notes to police officers, firefighters, and get well wishes to those who were ill.

We continue to look for new ways to help our community. If you have suggestions, please email or call—your input is appreciated. And enjoy the summer!

Please note all enrollment packets are due by Monday, June 27.

“Let it be considered one of the greatest virtues on earth to faithfully train the children of other people.”

—Martin Luther

Lord of Life Ministries June 2016 15

LO R D O F L I F E L U T H E RA N CHU R CH (E LCA ) 7401 County Road 101, Maple Grove, MN 55311-4313 phone 763.420.5015 fax 763.420.7286 web lordoflife.org

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LifeTIMES is a monthly ministry of Lord of Life Lutheran Church printed by Wallace Carlson Printing using ecofriendly inks.

To receive LifeTIMES in the mail or electronically—call 763.420.5015 or stop in the church office or email office@lordoflife.org with your name & address. We invite you to share faith stories, Lord of Life ministry events, photos, poetry & artwork.

Submissions may be edited. Deadline for the July issue is June 1. Copyright © 2016 Lord of Life Lutheran Church

R E T U RN SE RVICE RE Q U E ST E D

Filled with the Holy Spirit and celebrating Pentecost— more photos at facebook.com/lordoflife!

caught reading lifetimes God’s Work.

Our Hands.

With lavender pens for special notations, Lord of Life’s ‘good and faithful servants’ count and record weekend worship offerings on Monday mornings. Thank you to all of them for their dedicated service every week throughout the year.

Shown above (left to right): Seated are Bonnie Fellerman, Joan Holmes, Joey Lindblad and standing are Harold Fellerman, Clinton Eckstrom, Jeff Mason Not pictured: Mark Erickson, John Hanson, Linda Jenneke, Lisa McCarty, Sandy Stokes

16 June 2016

Atop Peru’s Macchu Picchu, Barb Lindberg is caught reading LifeTIMES