Lord of Life is a congregation whose origin goes all the way back to the Protestant Reformation. When he published the 95 Theses on October 31, 1517, Martin Luther desired for the Roman Catholic Church to change in certain ways in order to remain faithful to the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Spoiler alert: the 95 Theses were not warmly received by the Catholic Church. Thus marked what history notes as the beginning of the Protestant Reformation.
One of the ideas that is behind Protestantism (of which our Lutheran church is a part) is ecclesiareformata,semperreformanda . It means “the church reformed, always reforming.” This is the call to be open to the changes that God is consistently bringing to our lives as individuals and communities. It involves welcoming new ideas, new ways of doing things, and new energy to follow the leading of the Holy Spirit.
In this issue of Compass, you’ll find a host of articles all connected to the concept of ongoing reformation. None of us is a finished project. We continue to grow, learn, change, and serve in new and life-giving ways.
REPENT REFLECT
by Executive Pastor Kaitlyn Forster
In the half-mile radius around my home, there are no fewer than three Little Free Libraries™ that have emerged in the past ten years. Each one is an invitation to the world of stories, knowledge, and a chance to be community. This concept of a Little Free Library is one small thing that can make a big difference.
All it takes is an individual or a family to invest some time and resources into creating a little stand on their property and fill it with gently used books (you may even want to officially register your library: littlefreelibrary.org). From there, community members are welcome to receive, donate, and share in the wonder of working together for the common good. My children find it particularly delightful when they
find a Dog Man or Cat Kid comic book and when they share a book that they have loved. They wonder who is going to receive it and love it next.
Little Free Libraries are a beautiful example of what it looks like to live in a “gift economy” culture, where people share their resources so that everyone can have their needs met. No money or currency is exchanged in this system, and it is a contrast from the dominant “market economy” that we are used to—where goods and services are purchased rather than given. There are many examples to describe both types of economies in our current systems, but looking specifically at examples of “gift economies” helps us discern how to be a community. We figure out how to be in relationships and exchange things for mutual benefit.
RESURRECT
Jesus, in his teachings, calls the disciples and the crowds to look out for one another. Modeled on more of a “gift economy,” he encourages his listeners to be a light in the world, salt of the earth, and awaken to what is happening around them. It doesn’t mean that “market economies” are bad; there is a place for commerce in our lives. But Jesus invites the listener to view being a part of a community as something more than just getting something out of it for personal gain. Community is about a shared common good.
We are called to repent of the ways in which we let material things get between ourselves and God, and ourselves and our relationships. We are called to reflect on how we want to show up in our communities.
We are also called to live in the hope of Jesus’ resurrection that reminds us that from even the toughest scenarios, God is inviting new life to emerge.
This season has been overwhelmingly tough in Minnesota. Yet, through it all, we have seen the boundless ways in which Jesus calls us to the common good. Neighbors have been checking in on neighbors. Organizing has spread far and wide, and people are able to do what they can with what they have. It is powerful to see it in action, and it warms this weary heart of mine. In many ways, it is the glimmer of resurrection and new life that leads us forward, and reminds us that generosity, peace, and love are the foundation of our lives together.
“...that from even the toughest scenarios, God is inviting new life to emerge.”
REJOICE
Holy Week & Easter PALM WEEKEND
Saturday, March 28 5:30pm Sunday, March 29
8:30, 9:45, 11am
MAUNDY THURSDAY Thursday, April 2
7pm
GOOD FRIDAY Friday, April 3
10am (family worship) & 7pm
SATURDAY April 4 5:30pm
SUNDAY April 5
8, 9, 10, 11am, 12pm
RECONNECT
how to have a conversation
by Pastor Karen Wight Hoogheem
Spiritual direction is a quiet ministry of listening. In a one-to-one spiritual direction conversation, the participants trust that there are actually three gathered in the room: the one speaking, the spiritual director, and the Holy Spirit. As the person speaks, the spiritual director listens to the person’s words and for whispers, nudges, and invitations from the Holy Spirit. Listening is a gentle ministry and one with significant implications when the Holy Spirit’s presence brings clarity, healing, and/or an invitation to a new way of being.
A significant component of my training in spiritual direction focused on the sacred art of listening. The Listening Center1 suggests that sacred listening is the practice of becoming a listening presence. As Kay Lindahl says, sacred listening is “a way of being in which stillness and attentiveness provide the space for people to speak authentically and know they are being heard.”
To become a listening presence, one must practice being quiet in the world. As a person becomes more comfortable in silence they can truly be present to another and listen in an attentive way, without interruption or judgment. This kind of listening presence allows God’s love to flow freely from one person to another. David Augsberg, an American Mennonite pastor, author, theologian, and educator said, “Being listened to is so close to being loved that most people cannot tell the difference.”
So how can we develop listening as spiritual practice? I want to offer three daily habits that, when woven
together, can help you become a listening presence in the world:
practice stillness + silence daily
Find a quiet place where you can be uninterrupted for at least a minute. Set a timer on your phone and allow yourself to experience silence. Note that your commitment to quiet is also an intention to listen to the Holy Spirit’s wisdom.
practice reflection everyday
Before you respond to your own time of quiet or something you hear from another person in a conversation, take a deep breath. Listen to what is going on inside your own soul. Get to know yourself. Notice your own joys, sorrows, fears, and hopes. Allow God to care for you as you reflect on all that is going on in your spirit.
practice presence
Pay attention to what is going on inside of you—in all five senses—so that you can be present with the person who is in front of you. Set aside your own needs and give the other person your full attention. Even when you have a memory or story that comes to mind, set it aside. Refrain from interrupting the person who is speaking to say something like, “I know just what you mean! I had a similar thing happen to me when…” or “Before I forget, I wanted to say...” Let go of your memory for the moment and allow the person to keep speaking as they tell you their full story. Give them the gift of your complete attention.
For all ages, Brewed Theology is a great place for lively yet focused, faith-structured conversation which meets monthly at OMNI Brewing—visit lordoflife.org/brewedtheology for details.
Listening may not seem like a big deal in our busy, chaotic world. But giving someone your full, undivided attention allows them to listen to themselves and to hear God’s voice speak into their everyday life. The Holy Spirit is present and active in your listening presence and within other(s) who may be speaking. Something special happens when we slow down to really listen to ourselves, one another, and to the Spirit.
In Matthew 18:20, Jesus says, “Where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there among them.” Something mysterious, holy, and healing happens when people of faith slow down to be still, listen, speak, and care for one another in a relationship. Jesus is present and invites us to participate in the healing of the world. Sacred listening is one way to contribute to God’s kingdom being built among us on earth.
“...giving someone your full, undivided attention allows them to listen to themselves and to hear God’s voice speak into their everyday life.”
RECONCILE
by
At FreedomWorks in north Minneapolis, we are deeply grateful for the invaluable support and guidance provided by everyone in the Lord of Life congregation and the OWLs (Older Wiser Lutherans) ministry. Their contributions are essential in our mission to help men find reconciliation with God, their families, and their communities, particularly those transitioning from incarceration.
For many years, Lord of Life has played a pivotal role in our efforts to lead these individuals to Christ and facilitate their recovery. Through unwavering commitment, we have expanded our Blessing Closet, which serves as a vital resource for our residents. Collaboration with Cheryl and Greg Myhr has been instrumental in providing necessary items that offer not just comfort but also a renewed sense of belonging for those reentering society.
This partnership empowers us to create an environment where men can rediscover their worth and dignity. Donations and support for the FreedomWorks community foster a sense of hope and light among those seeking a fresh start. Each item provided—whether it be clothing, personal care items, or even the simple comfort of a pillow— embodies our commitment to helping these men on their journey of recovery and transformation.
Additionally, Lord of Life’s partnership enriches Thursday night connections with a delicious community meal. Their presence and active participation in these gatherings allow the men to experience genuine fellowship and support. By engaging with these individuals, it conveys a powerful message: we do not define you by your past, but by the potential for a new life in Christ that you cultivate each day.
Together, we are helping to transform lives through love, acceptance, and understanding. Collective efforts not only uplift the men we serve but also strengthen the fabric of our broader community.
FreedomWorks Executive Director George Lang + Volunteer Engagement Specialist Sheldon McMahon-Desmond
REVITALIZE
Being of service to others enriches your life and strengthens community. To revitalize your routine with faith-filled service—what do you enjoy? Take a look at the categories below and find a place to serve. Be God’s hands and feet helping people in need and serving those at Lord of Life, in the community, and in the world.
I like to meet new people
Connect with others by serving together as a team or meeting new people in the community. Welcome people to worship, serve food to neighbors, and build supportive relationships with youth!
I like to craft or build things I like making music
It’s fun to create and explore new projects together in fellowship. Make decorations for holidays or create items to share love and hope with the community.
Love to sing or play an instument? Music enhances worship experiences—share your gifts!
I like cooking or baking I like working behind the scenes I want to serve in the community
Everyone needs to eat, and food brings people together while nourishing their bodies. Share your culinary gifts and talents by making and serving meals and desserts for others in the community.
I’m task oriented
Like to get things done and see results? Over half a dozen opportunities are available where you will see tangible results—join in!
If you’re not one to be in the spotlight, consider a role helping plan, prep, or keep things running smoothly at Lord of Life or with one of our ministry partners.
Provide care, support, and services for neighbors in the community. Make a difference by serving a warm meal, helping local students succeed, and combatting food insecurity.
I like working with kids or students I like plants, gardening, or caring for creation
Stay young and have fun as you help children and students learn about God. Learn and grow together in faith!
Go green! Share your time and talents by digging in the dirt, harvesting veggies, and caring for God’s creation. LifeGarden community garden registration opens April 1.
Be revitalized and serve—which opportunities are a good fit for you? Learn about these and more at lordoflife.org/serve
RENEW creation care
by Blake Toms + Bev Mello
a history rooted in hope— and a call to action
Earth Day began in 1970 as a bold, collective awakening. At that time, I remember polluted rivers, creeks, and Lake Erie catching fire, smogchoked cities, and that environmental protection laws barely existed. On April 22, 1970, more than 20 million Americans gathered in parks (I was at Oak Hill in St. Louis Park), they picked up litter on streets and highways (from Second Lady LadyBird Johnson’s Beautify America campaign), and they spoke out on campuses to demand change. These voices and actions sparked the creation of the Environmental Protection Agency and landmark laws like the Clean Air Act and the Clean Water Act. ~Bev Mello
More than fifty years later, Earth Day is a reminder that ordinary people— acting with intention—can reshape the world. Its history isn’t simply about protests or policy; it’s about the belief that every action, no matter how small, makes a difference. A single seed planted, a single bag of compost created, a single sapling in fertile soil while we tread lightly as stewards of God’s earth—all actions ripple outward in ways we may never fully see.
heartfelt actions make a difference
Today’s environmental challenges may feel overwhelming with climate shifts, habitat loss, declining pollinator populations. But Earth Day teaches us that hope grows through participation. A greener world isn’t built by grand gestures or legislation alone; it’s built by millions of small, steady acts of care.
Julie Jones and Blake Toms provide direction during Sent to Serve Saturday in 2025, many folks chose to take action as stewards of God’s creation
composting
Composting is one of the most accessible ways to honor Earth Day’s spirit year-round. Kitchen scraps (especially daily coffee grounds!), egg shells, and yard waste break down naturally. They return nutrients to the soil instead of producing methane in landfills. Compost enriches gardens and lawns without chemicals, and supports microorganisms that keep soil alive. In Minnesota’s climate—where winters are long and summers burst with growth— composting is especially valuable. Even a small backyard bin or a simple pile tucked behind a garage can transform food waste into nourishment. And when spring arrives, that compost becomes the foundation for thriving gardens and healthier landscapes.
pollinators
Minnesota’s native pollinators—bees, butterflies, moths, beetles, and hummingbirds— are essential to our ecosystems. Yet many species are declining due to habitat loss. Planting native pollinator seeds is a powerful way to restore what has been lost. Species like purple coneflower, wild bergamot, black-eyed Susan, prairie blazing star, and milkweed flourish in Minnesota’s climate providing nectar and shelter throughout the growing season.
call to action
Earth Day’s legacy reminds us that change is not only possible—it’s personal. On Earth Day weekend (April 25/26), stop by a narthex table with a fun “spin the wheel” after worship. For instance, you may receive a tree sapling to plant, pollinator seeds to sow, or something else simple and fun!
Visit lordoflife.org/creationcare for details on helping with Adopt-A-Park or Adopt-A-Highway as well as other information. Creation Care ministry provides ideas and options for you to create a greener world from choices we make in our own backyards, kitchens, and communities. Composting, planting native seeds, tending the soil, and caring for pollinators are not simply environmental acts; they are acts of hope. And hope, like a seed, becomes something extraordinary when we choose to nurture it.
We served as leaders for all three of our kids in the C3 Confirmation ministry at Lord of Life. This year marks the third time teaching ninth graders. It continues to be an amazing opportunity for us to study and deepen our faith alongside students. Tina even brings a unique perspective, having once been a C3 student herself at Lord of Life! Walking with these young people as they hear a large group message, dive into the lesson, ask thoughtful questions and reflect on how faith connects to the world and daily life is inspiring. We’ve discovered that teaching confirmation is never a one-way experience. As we help students learn, we find ourselves relearning foundational truths, revisiting Scripture, and deepening our own understanding of what it means to live a life of faith. We are also incredibly grateful for Lord of Life’s staff! The lessons are well-planned and expectations are clear. The staff are great coaches and provide guidance to make it as easy as possible for us to be successful leaders. Thank you!
~Jason + Tina McCarty
confirmation
C3 =
ministry
Christ Community Confirmation
One of the greatest joys in serving at Lord of Life is being part of the C3 Confirmation program. It’s not only because I love to teach and help others grow in their faith. It’s because of how much my own faith grows along with the students and leaders.
To grow in faith isn’t about having all the answers, it’s about asking great questions. And the students are asking questions that I forgot to keep asking myself. When we wonder together, we create space for the Holy Spirit to work in our hearts and imaginations. We open ourselves up to new ideas and our faith is ignited to keep seeking God’s truth.
One week in C3 Confirmation, a small group asked me to join them and a student asked a simple question—one I’d never considered. I didn’t have a polished answer. Instead, I had to sit with the mystery, pray through it, and wrestle honestly with God.
Teaching faith doesn’t mean we’ve “arrived” or we have all of the answers. It means God continues forming us, using lived experience to deepen what was planted long ago. And often, the greatest growth happens when we’re willing to question, wonder, and learn alongside others.
~Dr. Neil Christians, Middle School Ministry Director
Teaching C3 Confirmation is the time when I felt I really found a connection to my faith because of the deep and meaningful conversations I had with my group.
Now, being an upperclassman and having the opportunity to hopefully help others find their connection, it has helped me to relearn and grow even more in my faith.
I’ve found that being the leader of the group doesn’t always mean you are leading the conversation. Even though you have those directional questions to offer—the group will often flow beyond those questions which make me think even harder. When I first started teaching C3 three years ago, I learned quickly that it’s ok to answer with “I don’t know” and continue the search for an answer to report back at a later point.
The members of my C3 group have opened my mind to many other thoughts and ideas that I would not have thought of if it weren’t for them. Collaboration and curiosity from the students has only grown my curiosity and understanding about our Lutheran faith and it has been such a privilege to be able to connect and grow alongside them.
~Sydney Lieser
REGROW plant ministry
by Deacon Elizabeth Pedersen
Oh, how I love watching plants grow. I remember the first time I brought home some pothos cuttings from a friend and put them in water. When I started to see new roots emerging in the jar, I took a picture and sent it to her with the caption, “ROOTS!!!” It was an exciting day. I will admit that was not the last time I ever sent a photo of new roots, leaves, or plant pups to a friend. Regrowth like this feels jubilant every time, and I never pass up the opportunity to share it. It’s this kind of marveling at new life that birthed Lord of Life’s Plant Ministry. The good news of growth and the hope that it brings to the joys and sorrows in life is precisely the message I hope that each plant carries to its new home. Check out the plant ministry wall in the upper commons at Lord of Life—feel free to take a plant from the “ready to give” shelf for yourself or a friend.
calling all plant lovers!
The Lord of Life Plant Ministry needs you! Whether you’re a seasoned house plant parent, newly interested, or even mildly successful in caring for plants—the plant wall in the upper commons could use more hands to help tend it. (You don’t need to have a green thumb.) Being part of the team involves peeking at water levels and occasionally scooping some dirt to get plants ready for a new home. Reach out to me (elizabethp@lordoflife.org) to schedule a short orientation and join the plant ministry email list.
God’s love grows here!
COMMUNITY BUILDING CAPITAL CAMPAIGN
by Lord of Life’s Capital Campaign Committee
As announced during February, Lord of Life is embarking on a Community Building Capital Campaign. This special effort is designed to enhance our facilities and retire the church’s remaining debt from previous building projects. The campaign represents an important step forward in caring for campus buildings and grounds as well as in serving the community for generations to come.
The building improvements are intended to preserve facilities that have supported worship, fellowship, and ministry for 26 years, while also preparing us to better welcome future members and the broader community we are called to serve.
Over the coming months, you will receive additional information about this campaign through a variety of ways, including emails, worship announcements, informational gatherings, and special updates. These opportunities will invite you to learn more about specific projects being considered, the overall vision for our facilities, and how this effort supports the mission of expressing God’s love and the story of Jesus Christ.
There will be opportunities for all to get involved and learn more before being asked for a three-year financial commitment, over and above annual giving. We invite everyone to stay engaged, ask questions, and reflect prayerfully on what this campaign means for Lord of Life and our community.
Most importantly, we ask for your prayers for God’s guidance, for the leaders and volunteers who are helping shape this effort, and for all of Lord of Life as we move forward together in Community Building.
contemplative REFLECTION
The ordinary moments of life can be sacred, if we simply take a
moment to notice.
—Meta Herrick Carlson a Camp House program leader
contemplative community REFLECTION + RETREAT
Community Connection Creativity
In a busy, disconnected, and even scary world, these can be hard to experience. And yet, we were created for community. This connection is where Christ shows up, as God’s children come together for a simple meal (maybe even a wood-fired pizza), to worship, to laugh, and to create.
Rediscover this vision of community at Camp House with Pastor Karen Wight Hoogheem, Brian Schroeder, and artist Heidi Barr as program leaders during the week of July 4-10. Take a day or three or whatever you need. Feel God’s presence while you sit quietly with others taking in a sunset or gather to hear a word of scripture or song. Hear the Spirit’s whispered reminder that you are loved.
With Ordinary Time, each day you’ll also encounter opportunities for learning, creating, playing, and being. Devotions and worship are woven with times of conversation, education / artistic classes, reading on the beach, hiking or canoeing around Lake George.
Enjoy a morning sauna or yoga and a devotional time before breakfast, moments of rest throughout the day, evening community games, and fellowship around the meal table.
Ordinary Time is about being a community of people being together to reconnect with the Creator, creation, and perhaps even our creative sides.
July 4-10
Ordinary Time at Camp House, which is on beautiful Lake George in Minnesota’s Northwoods. This 100-year old rustic camp is in Brimson, MN, about one hour north of Duluth.
REPAIR
by Communications Executive Director Sarah Lee
mending and
On a bench next to my bed, there’s a pile threatening to topple over of clothes that need to be mended. I am, unfortunately for my clothing, prone to spilling things that create stains, catching on loose nails that rip holes, and wearing my favorite socks until they’re worn and threadbare. Sometimes things need to go in the trash or be cut up and made into rags, but often they can be mended. The stains can be scrubbed out or covered, the tears can be patched, and the socks can be reinforced.
There’s something special about a piece of clothing that has been mended. A decision was made that these items were worth keeping and repairing. Whether that decision was made out of frugality, nostalgia, or simple practicality, effort was exerted so these items could continue to serve their purpose. I’m particularly fond of visible mending, where, instead of being camouflaged, a repair adds beauty and personality to an item. They highlight that “something happened here,” that these items hold stories of the people who used them.
Perhaps you have a pile of clothing that needs mending sitting in your house. Clothing, however, isn’t the only thing in our lives that requires repair. There are fractures in our relationships, tears in our
communities, and holes in our societal systems that need to be addressed.
In John, after Jesus is resurrected, he appears to the disciples. But Thomas misses it and tells the others, “Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe.” (John 20:25) Jesus appears again, this time when Thomas is present, and Thomas gets to touch Jesus’ wounds, after which he exclaims, “My Lord and my God!” Jesus, in a body that has been supernaturally resurrected and can somehow move through locked doors, still has scars from his crucifixion. Thomas recognizes his Lord because Jesus’ body bears witness to what he endured.
Maybe it feels flippant to compare mending socks to Jesus’ resurrection, but I believe the truth we see in the life of Jesus scales from the very smallest things in our lives to the very largest. There are so many things in our lives that need and are deserving of care and repair. The tears in things as small as our clothing or as large as our most cherished relationships don’t diminish the value of those things.
Our work to repair and heal doesn’t erase what has happened, nor should it. Our stories, our histories, are an important part of who we are—as individuals and as communities— even when they’re painful. There is new life that simultaneously holds the truth of the past while moving forward into the future.
caring
The next time you notice a hole in your favorite shirt or a rip in your jeans, consider mending them. And as you do, make a plan to start mending other things around you, inviting new life into your relationships, your community, and the world.
“...I believe the truth we see in the life of Jesus scales from the very smallest things in our lives to the very largest.”
WELCOME maria wilson
Maria Wilson recently began serving at Lord of Life as the children’s choir director. Maria is also a teacher in Osseo School District 279.
If you have singers in your household, ages 6-12 years old (kindergarten through sixth grade), they are encouraged to join in lifting their voices in glory to God! In choir, they will grow their musical skills, serve the Lord, have fun, and make new friends. Rehearsals are generally Thursdays, 6-7pm, or Sundays, 3-4pm, in the choir room. The children’s choir is planned to sing during Sunday 9:45am worship services for March 8, April 12, and May 3.
If you have questions, feel free to contact Maria directly at mariaw@lordoflife.org or visit lordoflife.org/childrenschoir for more information.
Save the date, high school seniors — all worship services on Sunday, May 17, will include a special blessing for you as a member of the Class of 2026!
Last day of Church School is May 10— Celebration Sunday is May 17 which includes a congregational breakfast supporting the high school mission trip lordoflife.org/cyf
Sent to Serve Saturday is April 25, mark your calendar! More information to come in weekly enews and worship announcements
Wednesdays
March 4, 11, 18, 25
6:30pm soup supper in Fellowship Hall before worship, learning opportunities afterward
worship + learn during lent
Saturdays 5:30pm
holy communion every week, livestreamed on YouTube
Sundays
8:30, 9:45, 11am
holy communion first + third Sundays, livestreamed on YouTube, childcare available (birth-age two)
First Sundays through May 6:30pm
contemplative Taizé worship with annointing, if desired
Holy Week + Easter see Pages 6-7 or visit lordoflife.org/easter
Come dig in the dirt! Be a part of LifeGarden to feed our community with fresh produce— registration opens April 1!
For all events, changes, recurring ministry events, and announcements, visit lordoflife.org for the most current information. For a list of baptisms, bereavements, welcome to new members, and weddings, visit lordoflife.org/congregationallife.
And, you are invited to Lord of Life’s prayer network (lordoflife.org/ prayernetwork) to pray for the community.
Lord of Life
Loved by God. Sent to Serve.
Name Address
City, ST 00000-0000
Don’t ask yourself what the world needs. Ask yourself what makes you come alive, and go do that, because what the world needs is people who have come alive.
~Howard Thurman
Each one of us matters, has a role to play, and makes a difference. Each one of us must take responsibility for our own lives, and above all, show respect and love for living things around us, especially each other.
