Issuu

LifeTIMES

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

Planting Seeds of Faith

e have one of the largest confirmation ministries in the Lutheran church. At Lord of Life it is called: Community, Confirmation, Christ or simply C3. There are lots and lots of young people. Our goal is for young people to grow deeper in their faith; for them to develop a meaningful and dynamic relationship with God, and to experience and understand God’s grace in their lives. All that, for over 500 people. It is a huge task.

Yet ultimately, we have faith this can happen.

It can happen because the Holy Spirit is at work in all of our lives—our youth and our small group leaders. And we need to be reminded of two very important things: First, the faith of the young people in Lord of Life isn’t up to an individual leader. Faith is a gift from God. We are planting the seeds of faith; it is the Holy Spirit who provides the harvest. A small group leader does many important things: has fun, listens, laughs, reflects, and is a role model. Although Secondly, it’s a very important job to listen. Our all are important, it is young people have so much to tell and it will ultimately God who gives take time...maybe the whole year...for them to growth in faith. A leader share. Yet God is working in their lives. Young must actually be willing to people seek out those who genuinely listen to let go of this responsibility their hopes and fears, joys and sorrows. Be that allowing God to work person for them. Be willing to listen. through them. Lord of Life’s C3 philosophy includes all of the following statements. We believe in relationships as a learning tool. Faith is caught, not taught. It is a sin to bore a kid. We build fun relationships with young people that say, “hey, look at me...look at me...” and just as we get their attention, we duck and they see the cross behind us. C3 builds an authentic community and is a safe place to explore issues of life and faith. It’s all about developing a passionate faith and love for the God who already passionately loves us.

And finally, you can’t test a kid into the kingdom of God.

—continues on Page 14

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

March 2012

contact us WEB lordoflife.org PHONE 763.420.5015 FACEBOOK facebook.com/lordoflifelutheran ADDRESS 7401 County Road 101, Maple Grove, MN 55311-4313 PRAYER NETWORK prayernetwork@lordoflife.org FAX 763.420.7286

1978 Lord of Life Lutheran Church Charter (ELCA) Lord of Life is a community of people called together by God’s Holy Spirit who confess Christ as Lord. We wish to be a church whose door is open to all people. And with the guidance of the Holy Spirit we will strive to educate, comfort, aid and spread the word of love in Christ’s name. We believe worship is of most importance in our life together as we receive God’s love through Word and Sacrament. We will be involved with seeking justice in our community, state, nation and world. We hold high the dignity and worth of every human being as created in God’s image and forgiven in Christ. We hope to be a serving church, in the name of Him who came as Servant of all.

global ends policy

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.

pastoral Rev. Peter Geisendorfer-Lindgren........... Senior Pastor........................................ x105 Rev. Todd Buegler................................... Pastor, Children Youth Family............... x109 Rev. Phil Dell........................................... Executive Pastor, Administration........... x116 Rev. Dr. Karen Geisendorfer-Lindgren.... Pastor, Adult Ministries.......................... x104 Rev. Dr. David Lippitt............................... Pastor, Congregational Care................. x122 Karen Greimel......................................... Pastoral Associate................................ x144 Dave McCarty.......................................... Pastoral Intern....................................... x147 administrative suppor t Nancy Bourbonais................................... Main Office & Database Manager......... x126 Diane Carlson/Lu Chretien/Sandy Zappa... Main Office Receptionists..................... x100 Rhonda Evans-Hofer............................... Kitchen Lady......................................... Lori Schwartz........................................... Membership, Funerals, Hospitality........ x111 adult ministries Jane Bergstrom....................................... Administrative Assistant........................ x142 Karen Nelson........................................... Administrative Assistant........................ x138 Michelle Welinski..................................... Missions, Ministries, Pastoral Care, and Wedding Supervisor.............................. x118 children youth family (cyf) Biz Behrens............................................. Grades 1-4............................................ x129 Amanda Clancy (“Clancy”)...................... Grades 5-6............................................ x106 Kirstin Delp.............................................. Early Childhood Ministry....................... x113 Raul Garcia III, AIM................................. Grades 7-9............................................ x121 Heather Hjelmstad................................... Ministry of Inclusion/Nursery Mgr.......... x143 Lynn Leisen............................................. Faith in the Home.................................. x107 Elizabeth Pedersen................................. Grades 10-12........................................ x130 Gerad Remus.......................................... Confirmation (C3).................................. x102 Pennie Soppeland................................... CYF Support......................................... x132 Debbie Zaic............................................. CYF Office Manager and Registrar....... x128 communications Lori Buegler............................................. Communications Director...................... x146 Bev Mello................................................. Editor, LifeTIMES.................................. x108 Stephanie Smith...................................... Web........................................................ finance Colleen Anderson.................................... Finance Director.................................... x103 Lenora Little............................................. Finance & Stewardship Assistant.......... x139 Sandie Saar............................................. Finance Assistant.................................. x101 karing kingdom preschool Angie Schiebel......................................... Director, Karing Kingdom Preschool..... x127 Jennifer Ellingson, Pam Grachek, Maureen Murphy Hanson, Carly Schiebel systems and custodial Ken Carraux............................................ Maint. Eng./Systems Administrator....... x120 Joel Kivi................................................... Custodial Supervisor............................. Jim Deger, Jon Doerrmann, Matt Greenfield, Jim Lambrecht, Karen Nilson worship and music Dana Brinton............................................ Children’s Music Ministries.................... x135 Alice Cummings, AIM.............................. Worship and LifeGARDEN Ministries.... x114 David Frank............................................. Director of Music................................... x203 Lee Fuchs................................................ Adult Choirs and Bel Canto................... x202 Jordan Lippitt........................................... Audio/Visual Technician........................ x145

March 2012 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a

peter@lordoflife.org todd@lordoflife.org phild@lordoflife.org karengl@lordoflife.org davidl@lordoflife.org kareng@lordoflife.org davem@lordoflife.org nancyb@lordoflife.org office@lordoflife.org rhondah@lordoflife.org loris@lordoflife.org janeb@lordoflife.org karenn@lordoflife.org michellew@lordoflife.org elizabethb@lordoflife.org amandac@lordoflife.org kirstind@lordoflife.org raul@lordoflife.org heatherh@lordoflife.org lynnl@lordoflife.org elizabethp@lordoflife.org gerad@lordoflife.org pennies@lordoflife.org debz@lordoflife.org lorib@lordoflife.org bevm@lordoflife.org stephanies@lordoflife.org colleen@lordoflife.org lenoral@lordoflife.org sandie@lordoflife.org kingdom@lordoflife.org kenc@lordoflife.org joelk@lordoflife.org danab@lordoflife.org alicec@lordoflife.org davidf@lordoflife.org leef@lordoflife.org jordanl@lordoflife.org

n Sunday afternoon, February 5, Peter & I ran into our friends Karen & Jerry Wahl as we were all arriving at Methodist Hospital. Both couples had been summoned to the hospital within the hour. Jerry & Karen were called to celebrate the birth of a new grandchild. Peter & I had been called because my mom had just died.

For Everything There is

a Season

spirit

spirit/worship 2-7

Joy and sadness…life and death…side by side…within minutes…within feet. It was a poignant moment filled with the reality of our human existence. The experience brought to mind the words of Ecclesiastes Chapter 3, “For everything there is a season and a time for every matter under heaven; a time to be born and a time to die…” My sisters and I had been taking turns sitting next to my mom’s bedside; she had been comatose for several days. As hard as it was to say goodbye to our precious mother, it was time for her to die. . . to leave this world and enter the next. It was time. Death is a difficult transition for us, because it is a journey to an unknown place. But the great promise we cling to is that Jesus is with us through it all and that He has indeed prepared a place for us—that where He is, we will be also. As we enter into the season of Lent this year, we are reminded that because of what Jesus did for us on the cross, our sins are forgiven and we will have eternal life. It is the greatest gift we will ever experience. This life is wonderful. But for those of us who know Jesus Christ as Lord, we are confident that the next life will be even better. I invite you to join me in living with the peace and comfort of entrusting every season—all of life and death—to Jesus.

giving/culture of generosity 8

adult/outreach 9-13

—Pastor Karen

cyf/faith formation 14-19

March 2012 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a

spirit

Lenten Midweek Worship Services begin March 1—

“Come and See”

n the first chapter of the gospel of John, an excited disciple Philip shares this news with Nathanael: “We have found Him about whom Moses in the law and also the prophets wrote, Jesus son of Joseph from Nazareth.” Nathanael isn’t sure about this, so Philip begs him to “come and see.” We are still urged to come and see as God’s word is continually revealed to us. This Lenten season actors from Lord of Life will share stories about some of the characters from John’s gospel who invite us to come and see the Lord they have come to know—Jesus Christ. Through short monologues written by Lord of Life member Wendy Showalter, these stories will be heard from Nicodemus, the boy who gave his lunch to Jesus, the man born blind, Miriam (cousin to Martha and Mary), the Samaritan woman at the well, and the disciple Thomas. These short monologues will be part of Lenten midweek worship services to be held on Thursdays, March 1, 8, 15, 22, and 29 and Maundy Thursday, April 5. All services will be held at 7 pm, following soup supper beginning at 6 pm.

family share event good friday, april 6 10 am Family Worship 11 am Family 363 Hunger Ministry sandwich-making service project 11:45 am Family-friendly lunch No preregistration required for this event—open to anyone 3 years and older. Childcare will be provided for those under 3 years during the sandwich-making time. Freewill donations to cover the cost of lunch and service project. Questions? Contact Kirstin Delp.

Equipping Men and Women for Ministry by Jan Sower

e are all ministers—pastors and lay leading the church and sharing the Gospel together in community. That is what adult leaders were told at a recent Lord of Life ministries retreat. During one of the sessions we learned that an ‘equipping’ ministry grows people in Christ and links training to a person’s growth in discipleship. Spiritual mentoring is a good example of an equipping ministry. As more people are requesting a spiritual mentor, it has become evident that there is a need for more men and women to be equipped to develop and share their gifts. Spiritual mentoring training develops and empowers people in Christ. The eight-week course models what it is like to mentor an individual using topical lessons that relate the Bible to everyday life. A quote from Hebrews 13:20-21 relates to being equipped for ministry: “May the God of peace, who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, the great Shepherd of the sheep, equip you with everything good for doing His will, and may He work in us what is pleasing to Him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.” Learn how spiritual mentor training will equip you to LIVECHRIST by ministering to individuals as a mentor. Feel free to contact me directly at jansower@aol.com or 763.421.1524. For additional information on this ministry, visit lordoflife.org/ spiritualmentoring.

sermons:

lordoflife.org/sermons

readings:

lordoflife.org/worshipschedule

March 2012 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a

spirit

worship

walking on holy ground

Saturdays at 5:30 pm with Holy Communion Sundays at 8:30, 9:45 and 11 am with Holy Communion the first & third Sundays Third Wednesday worship on March 21 at 2 pm at Rose Arbor Assisted Living Healing Service on the third Saturday March 17 at 6:30 pm March 1 Midweek Lenten Services Begin Every Thursday at 7 pm with light soup supper in Fellowship Hall at 6 pm March 3/4 Preaching: Pastor Peter Special Music Saturday: Praise Band Sunday: Joyful Noise (8:30 am), Canticle Choir (9:45 & 11 am) March 10/11 Preaching: Pastor David Special Music Saturday: Praise Band Sunday: Bel Canto and Canticle Choir (8:30 & 9:45 am) March 17/18 Preaching: Pastor Peter Special Music Saturday: Praise Band Sunday: New Life Ensemble and Preludes March 24/25 Preaching: Pastor Peter Special Music Saturday: Praise Band Sunday: Canticle Choir (9:45 & 11 am) March 31/April 1 Palm Saturday/Palm Sunday Preaching: Pastor Peter Special Music Saturday: Praise Band Sunday: Joyful Noise (8:30 am), Canticle Choir (9:45 & 11 am) Please note worship & music schedules may be subject to change.

A Lenten prayer and meditation experience, Walking on Holy Ground, is planned on Saturday, March 3, from 10-11:30 am in the Lord of Life sanctuary. After a brief introduction, it will be a reflective and reverent time with a focus on prayer and Scripture. This is not a conference or a seminar. It is for all ages; no registration is required. During this Lenten season, strengthen your relationship with God through peaceful moments of prayer and meditation. Hosted by Lord of Life Prayer Ministries, visit lordoflife.org/ prayerministries for more details.

Spring Break

by Alice Woodard Cummings, AIM Director of Worship and Garden Ministries

ou are invited to embark on a journey, a ‘spring break’ of sorts. For this journey you do not need a passport, a suitcase, or an airline ticket. All you need is a willing spirit and an open heart. It is a journey of spiritual renewal. The journey began on Ash Wednesday, February 22. On that day we received ashes on our foreheads as a sign of mortality and the limits of our earthly existence. Reciting portions of Psalm 51, we ask God to grant us mercy, to wash away our sins, and to give us clean hearts. The next steps of the journey will be taken over the several weeks of Lent. During weekend worship, we will continue the study of John with sermons and lessons concerning Jesus’ foretelling of his betrayal, Jesus’ arrest, Jesus before the High Priest, Jesus before Pontius Pilate, and the crucifixion. Thursday’s midweek worship services will feature “Come and See” monologues (see Page 4). Palm Saturday and Sunday, March 31 and April 1, we will join Jesus for his triumphal entry into Jerusalem. We will stay in Jerusalem for Maundy Thursday, April 5, when we will remember the first celebration of the Lord’s supper. The final stop in the journey of Holy Week will be on Good Friday, April 6, when we will participate in “Tenebrae: A Service of Darkness” by Hal H. Hopson, with music from the Canticle Choir and Orchestra. The destination of our journey will be the jubilant celebration of the Resurrection of Our Lord on Easter Saturday and Easter Sunday, April 6 and 7. By this time we will have had plenty of opportunity for reflection and will be ready to celebrate our new life through our risen Lord. Won’t you join in the journey?

March 2012 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a

spirit

Lord of Life Lives Christ Together bereavements Prayers of sympathy for those who are grieving the loss of a loved one; may they be comforted in the promise of the resurrection. Carole Cuthbertson and family at the death of her mother

baptisms January 8 Lydia Eve Ashcraft Mia Angela Boller Cashton Isaac Nelson Sophia Marie Petrie Kaylee Elizabeth Sorensen Cooper Vincent Wold

Elizabeth Darth and family at the death of her grandmother

January 14 Christopher Thomas Collins Claire Michele Ann Collins Hanna Beatrice Gosha Ashley Rebekah Tofte Elaina Grace Waldron

Kathy Schleif and family at the death of her father

Kirstin Delp and family at the death of her grandmother Gwen Denninger and family at the death of her great aunt Lyn Jacobson and family at the death of her father Rob Marx and family at the death of his mother Sarah Marx and family at the death of her grandmother Diane Sjolander and family at the death of her cousin Duane Sween and family at the death of his cousin Mylla Urban and family at the death of her mother

January 15 Calvin Jay Lestina Allison Leigh Tofte

welcome to new members

January 22 Elsa Ann Halbe

Luke & Catherine Borman with Carina and Owen

January 29 Brooklyn Grace Grages Makenna Arlean Schewe At Lord of Life, we baptize individuals at any age. The next baptism class is Saturday, March 10, 10-11 am in the downstairs Theater; no preregistration is necessary.

weddings January 6 Sarah Vold & Kyle Palmer

Tom Dorn Brent Krause Alissa Nelson Landon & Jyll Pohl 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. If you are interested in membership, new member courses are at lordoflife.org/membership101 or contact Lori Schwartz directly.

January 14 Justine Schwartz & Michael Pierson January 21 Crystal Lienhard & Sean Sweeney January 28 Kathryn Gillaspey & Timothy Webb

March 2012 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a

spirit

“I tell you the truth, you will weep and mourn while the world rejoices. You will grieve, but your grief will turn to joy…Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy.” John 16:20, 22

Living with Grief…it’s temporary by Karen Greimel, Pastoral Associate

rief is not only painful, but it is disruptive and disorienting. We are often unprepared for grief; there are not too many people who think about or discuss death. Unfortunately, it’s a period of time we all must go through and it’s better to walk through your grief than to run from it. Grief is like a loyal friend, it waits for you. I have met folks who have lost a loved one and never really grieved until years later when they find themselves in the midst of it. It’s never too late to walk this path and grieve. Following are some suggestions for living with grief as you move toward healing. These topics are covered in detail through the GriefShare program. • Lean into your grief. Pretending you are ok is not helpful; it’s a form of running away from grief • Don’t feel your feelings alone, find helpful ways to express your grief, join a grief share group and commit to it • Postpone making big decisions • Don’t rush into remarriage • Learn how to deal with people who want to rush you through the grief process

Original watercolor by Bev Mello

• Learn what to do when you just can’t do it anymore • Expect your pain to come and go GriefShare is a safe place for you to walk through this time in your life. You will learn healthy ways to navigate through and live with grief. Every Tuesday evening, you are invited for dinner served at 6-6:30 pm with our Celebrate Recovery friends and/ or meet with the GriefShare small group from 6:45-8:15 pm. For more information or if you have questions, please feel free to contact me or Michelle Welinski directly.

a god moment by Lee Nelson A God moment for my wife Jeanne and I was taking shelter in an Anasazi cliff ruin in the Mesa Verde National Park during a thunderstorm.

Would you like to share a baptism or wedding photo or artwork or poetry in LifeTIMES—or perhaps you would like to share a God moment? Contact LifeTIMES Editor Bev Mello.

March 2012 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a

giving

Ken & Owen’s Construction Corner

Ken Carraux, Lord of Life’s Maintenance Engineer/Systems Administrator and Owen Slettedahl, Kraus-Anderson’s On-site Project Superintendent

progress from february As shown on the plans, the new larger rooms now have names! They are Luther, Trinity, Samaritan, and The Gathering. Narthex demolition is complete. Floor tile in lower level bathrooms was installed. Installation of ceiling grid, stairway, sheetrock (90%) and taping (60%) complete in North Addition.

January 2012 budget year-to-date

plans for march

Actual

Frames and glass at new front entry will be installed. Concrete floor will be poured in Narthex. Carpeting will be installed in Fellowship Hall. Sprinkler system will be completed at lower level of North Addition.

Total member contributions

$264,200 $255,788

All other

$41,654

Total receipts

For more information including photos on the building expansion & weekly updates, visit lordoflife.org/build.

Budget Difference $8,412

$39,385

$2,269

$305,854 $295,173

$10,681

Lord of Life Weekly Giving — January 2012 $125,000 $100,000 $75,000

Would you like to give an offering to Lord of Life via online giving? Simply scan the QR code above, which will bring you to the “Give a Gift” page on Lord of Life’s website. Fill out the form and use your credit card to complete payment.

$50,000 $25,000 $0

1/1 1/8

1/15 1/22 1/29

Actual $109,062 $58,790 $44,064 $44,533 $49,405 Budget $59,035 $59,035 $59,035 $59,035 $59,034

March 2012 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a

adult/ outreach

Karen Hanson and daughter Katie doing cement work and a group photo of backpacks given with school supplies inside.

A Time to Celebrate

Mission to the Dominican Republic (M2DR)

M2DR

y name is Karen Hanson and I am a grateful believer in Jesus Christ. I had the great privilege of being part of a service team along with my daughter Katie that went to San Cristobal, Dominican Republic January 14-21, 2012. Our experience was rich in adventure, hard work, fun, and spiritual growth. We were able to get to know others from our congregation and other neighboring congregations from Maple Grove. We drove in four-wheel drive trucks through rivers and unpaved jungle to get to the World Servants headquarters. We were involved in masonry (my first experience), kid’s club, and women’s ministry. My favorite experience was handing out backpacks complete with supplies (donated by Lord of Life through The Joy of Giving) to local school students. They were thrilled. I also loved the charismatic church services with merengue music and dancing to gospel songs. Priceless!!! Lastly, I feel like I grew in my faith. It was good to get away and spend time focusing on reading my Bible and praying. That is something we don’t always get time for at home. I would definitely recommend this mission trip!

—Karen Hanson

haring the times in our lives builds community at Lord of Life. A charter member since 1978, Gretchen Peel has been and continues to be an active participant in our congregation. The list is long for Gretchen’s involvement in Lord of Life! And as a family of faith, we celebrate with her in being named, “Science and Math Principal of the Year” by the Minnesota Elementary School Principals’ Association and the Science Museum of Minnesota. This state-level award recognizes the key role principals play in developing a culture that encourages math and science students. As Weaver Lake Elementary Principal, Gretchen has helped create a community of emerging scientists. Leadership as an educator is vitally important. Yet Gretchen also adds a very humble note to this recognition with these words, “I have been privileged to work with talented teachers who have been committed to creating an outstanding educational program for our students. We have learned together. Every day I am awed by what our student scientists are learning and doing. This honor is a reflection of all of us at Weaver Lake...staff, students, and parents.” Congratulations to you, Gretchen, from your family of faith at Lord of Life!

Twins Jenna & Lainey hold a hefty $13,414 check presented to Feed My Starving Children from LaVerne & Denny Kinvig and the Lord of Life congregation. Thanks also to Drew, Matthew, and Sarah for assisting in presentations during other worship services!

March 2012 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a

adult

Joy in Hope Lodge by Paula Thomas

T got talent? Are you looking for a place to showcase your special talents? Hope Lodge is hosting their first “Hope Idol” and we would love to have you come! Sing—dance—play! Prizes will be awarded for the top three with friendly judging by Hope Lodge guests. Come join the fun, Tuesday, March 20 from 6:30-8:30 pm at Hope Lodge, 2500 University Ave SE. Please RSVP by March 1 to Mary or Debbie at 612.379.6352 or mary. wiles@cancer.org or debbie. nelson@cancer.org.

hank you to everyone who donated to Hope Lodge through The Joy of Giving. As a ministry leader for Hope Lodge, I had the “joy of shopping” and then the “joy of delivering” the gifts. Your generous donations provided eight sets of sheets, eight mattress pads, eight sets of towels, 24 sets of kitchen towels, many, many paper products, cleaning & office supplies, and scrapbooking supplies. Hope Lodge was overwhelmed by the generosity of our congregation. Thank you, thank you! Lord of Life members continue to provide a meal every other Monday for the guests of Hope Lodge. Prayerfully consider experiencing the joy of serving through this ministry on March 12 or 26. To sign up or for more information, please contact Paula Thomas at pkthomas5@ hotmail.com.

Brownie Troop 13692 recently assembled “Grab & Go” bags as a service project for Hope Lodge.

In a Suitcase

eginning February 24-March 10, Mission Jamaica missionaries will be collecting items “in a suitcase!” Items will benefit Clifton Boys’ Home, WestHaven Children’s Home, and a medical clinic in Jamaica. A full list of items is at lordoflife.org/missionjamaica. Especially needed are new boys’ underwear, over-the-counter pain relievers, toothpaste, and toothbrushes (examples of one item in support of each area of need). Collection bins are currently located outside the main office; due to construction the bins may be relocated. Questions? Contact Rhonda (rhondah@lordoflife.org). Thank you.

March 2012 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a

The Joy of Giving — What a Joy!

outreach

by Michelle Welinski

big thank you to all who supported The Joy of Giving during the past Christmas season. A total of $11,115 was donated. Some ministry representatives had the “joy of giving” a check to an organization, while others had the joy of shopping and delivering gifts to their represented ministry. The following 13 ministries that our congregation regularly supports were the beneficiaries of your generosity. Thank you for giving so joyfully!

•

• • • • • • • • • • • •

363 Hungry Ministry ELCA Good Gifts Emergency Foodshelf Network (EFN) FreedomWorks Hope Lodge Lutheran Malaria Initiative Lutheran Social Service Military Family Support Mission Dominican Republic Mission Jamaica Mission Tanzania RiverWorks Foodshelf St. Olaf Lutheran Church

From Lord of Life’s The Joy of Giving, a $960 check was given by Sharon Krogman to EFN Director Laurie Kratchmer and EFN Volunteer Coordinator Sarah Havey.

Emergency Foodshelf Network (EFN)

world hunger ELCA World Hunger responds to global hunger and poverty by addressing its root causes. They work in 60 countries around the world, including the United States, to help people lift themselves out of poverty through food, agricultural training, livestock, access to clean water, health care, job training and more. Thanks to the ministry of ELCA World Hunger, communities who once knew hunger now give thanks for daily bread. Please give generously today. Continue to fill your hunger bank with coins throughout the season of Lent and return the bank to Lord of Life any time in April. They may be returned to any Church School class or the Children, Youth and Family office downstairs. Banks are still available at the Youth Booth or in the CYF office. Thank you.

Hunger in Our Community

T food.

hank you to everyone who participated in The Joy of Giving during Christmas. It was a huge success for the families served by EFN. There were many positive comments and our congregation was very generous in their giving. A $960 check was given to EFN for the purchase of canned goods, fresh and frozen meat, fruit and vegetable packs, and baby

On the second Monday of the month, Lord of Life averages 16 volunteers serving at EFN to help package and sort food. It’s easy to do! Each Monday we average making 400 Baskets of Hope, and sorting 4,000 pounds of canned foods which equates to serving over 2,000 people. We welcome you to volunteer—EFN is in New Hope at 8501 54th Avenue North. It is important to sign up (as individuals or small groups—C3er’s earn service hours), visit lordoflife.org/efn or contact Jane Bergstrom. The next dates for serving at EFN are March 12, April 9, May 7, June 4, and July 2. Times for all of those dates would be from 4-7 pm. Come and help our community in need. We are grateful for all of the support and positive responses for our ministry to EFN.

March 2012 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a

adult

Older Wiser Lutherans (OWLs)

A New Year of Faith, Food & Fellowship by Joyce Martin

he OWLs began the New Year enjoying hearty and hot soup, fresh rolls, salad and dessert as well as good fellowship on January 5. Then with the smell of fresh popcorn in the air, it was a short walk to the church theatre for a movie called Faith Like Potatoes. It was a true story about a farmer from Scotland who moves his family to South Africa and suffers a series of seemingly insurmountable losses. Through unlikely friendships and much needed divine intervention, he discovers his life’s true purpose…trusting God.

march OWLs events Faith, Food & Fellowship on Thursday, March 1: “Make Fitness a Goal for Life” is the theme for Faith, Food, and Fellowship at 10 am in the Youth Room with guest Beth Kanthak. It’s not too late to make goals for 2012 and for life—bring a friend! Wednesday, March 14: Worship at Rose Arbor Assisted Living at 2 pm Thursday, March 15: Feel like it’s springtime by enjoying an animal-themed day visiting the Sea Life Minnesota Aquarium at the Mall of America. There will be a guided behind-the-scenes tour and plenty of time to visit regular exhibits on your own. Then we’ll go to the Rainforest Café and enjoy lunch on our own in the presence of tropical fauna! Cost for admission and transportation is $23. Leave church at 9 am and return about 3 pm. Friday, March23: Service project labeling LifeTIMES in Fellowship Hall at 9:30 am

other OWLs events Due to Easter Week, there is no Faith, Food & Fellowship on April 5. Thursday, April 19: Come along to Gerten’s in Inver Grove Heights. Gerten’s began as a small truck farm in the early 1900’s with the motto: “Buy from the Grower.” Generations later it has grown to over 40,000 square feet; you still buy from the grower! A tour will take us from seedlings to finished plants. We’ll have a shopping discount as well. Transportation is $6; lunch on your own at Old World Pizza. Leave church at 8:30 am and return about 3:30 pm. Thursday, May 3: “Support Those Who Protect Us” with guests John and Lucy Rodvik with Lord of Life’s Military Family Support Ministry. Thursday, May 17: Save the date for a Coffee Concert at Orchestra Hall in Minneapolis. More details to come!

...older, wiser, or Lutheran? If so, you will be warmly welcomed at all OWLs activities. Questions? Contact Joyce or Gordy Martin directly at 763.497.7355 or by grjsmartin@embarqmail.com.

Hairspray! by Renae Larson

wenty-four OWLs left the Chanhassen Dinner Theatre on January 18 with smiles on their faces and songs in their hearts. The story line of Hairspray reminded us of how important it is to be compassionate to the needs of one another. This was told through great songs and dances by a wonderful acting cast. It’s especially fun for us to watch the talents of cast member Jeff Quast, the son of Sharon & Oly! We feel very special when he comes to greet us as we eat and hops on the bus to say goodbye. Everyone who attended had a wonderful and relaxing day at the theater. Photos on next page!

March 2012 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a

outreach

Happy Recycling New Year —Kevin Klitz, Creation Care Team

or many of Lord of Life’s congregants, a happy ‘recycling’ new year has occurred in January of this year. Some recycling service providers such as Allied Waste (AlliedWasteMinnesota.com) and Randy’s (randyssanitation.com) now accept many of the materials that were previously only recycled at specific locations. For example, the plastic caps that are recycled by the Creation Care Team through AVEDA, could more simply be directly recycled into your recycle bin. Additionally, plastic bags from retailers can be recycled in the same way. Check your recycling provider’s handouts or websites to see the added materials that can now be recycled to further reduce our volume of waste!

lost and found In churches the phrase ‘lost and found’ is often heard in songs, stories, and sermons. And here at Lord of Life, we have found many items which you may have lost. These items include: ....coffee mugs ...water bottles ...a Japanese/English Bible ...sweatshirts ...umbrellas

Celebrate Your Recovery

ome for dinner at 6 pm followed by brief worship. Following large group, you will participate in a gender-specific small group to gain support and tools to work through hurts, habits and hang-ups. Every Tuesday evening, come to Celebrate Recovery (adults), the landing (youth 12-18) or Celebration Station (children 5-11) from 6-9 pm. Childcare is provided. Questions? Contact Michelle Welinski or Pastor David.

The Lost and Found bin is in the main hallway; clothing items are on hangers below the bin. For smaller items such as reading glasses, bracelets, watches or jewelry, please check with the receptionist in the main office. If items (except Bibles) are not claimed after several weeks—they will be donated to CROSS. Thank you.

Older Wiser Lutherans enjoying Hairspray—see article on previous page.

March 2012 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a

—continues from cover page

A philosophy is well and good—yet you may wonder how does this all actually happen? C3 rotates through three themes each year. Depending upon when a student begins, one year is devoted to studying the Old and New Testaments of the Bible. The second year is studying the Jesus ethic, Lutheranism and its two sacraments. The third year is focused on the Ten Commandments (not the ten suggestions!), the Lord’s Prayer, and creeds. Does a small group leader need to create their own curriculum and have a Biblical background similar to a bishop? Nope. Leaders may find the lessons (see next page for a sample) structured yet loose enough for creativity & personalization to a group’s specific needs. Wondering what happens during a typical C3 hour? To begin with it is not really an hour—it’s 50 minutes (see below to learn more about that). For flexibility, we offer sessions on Wednesday nights or on Sundays. There is also a ‘spare group’ available on both nights for an occasional scheduling conflict. As we’re planting seeds for the youth, many leaders have shared how their own faith journey has been nurtured by being involved with C3. Prayerfully consider the opportunity to be a C3 small group leader, co-leader, or substitute leader. It may be a great fit for your interests and gifts in planting seeds of faith!

Pastor Todd Buegler Children Youth Family Ministries CYF bobblehead/avatars © FarmVille by Zenga

faith formation

Questions about Lord of Life’s C3 program or other CYF ministries? Contact CYF staff playfully introduced on the following pages (email & phone extensions on Page 2)!

A typical C3 hour... first 10 minutes: The first 10 minutes is check-in. Youth share recent highs & lows. A leader checks attendance while this is going on. Then start with a prayer!

next 30 minutes: The next 30 minutes focuses on the content of the lesson (see next page for a recent lesson from February). Each group goes over the lesson together—lessons are designed to get kids talking! We hope your class will talk about the subject, about their lives, and about how God affects them.

The extra 10 minutes is time to get the room cleaned up and ready for the next hour!

It’s important to note the booklet is not intended to have every question filled out, but rather to use questions as tools for discussion. We need to set our expectations high and tell students at the start, “we’re here to become a tight group and to become comfortable talking about these things.” Each group uses the workbooks and journals differently. They are tools for your group to use in the way which creates the best experience. While some groups diligently write answers to each question, other groups dive deep into discussion. Similar variations occur with the journals. Journals may be a great way of getting to know each other. One thing is certain, however leaders use the journals be sure to write comments back to the youth—it means a lot to them!

Last 10 minutes: The last 10 minutes are spent on journals, finishing the lesson, and having some bonding time as a small group. Then finish with a prayer!

...is really 50 minutes!

If you are considering to serve as a C3 leader, would like to see an entire Leader’s Guide, or have questions— please contact Pastor Todd or Gerad Remus!

March 2012 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a

A typical C3 lesson!

Perhaps self-study of a typical lesson may plant a seed to serve as a C3 small group leader, co-leader, or substitute. You are encouraged to prayerfully consider this opportunity.

woman at the well John 4:13-19 and 25-26

point of this lesson

1. Jesus knows us all. 2. While Jesus loves and forgives us unconditionally, He also calls us to a higher standard of behavior. 3. Jesus advises us to strive to be as Christ-like as possible in our lives. Basically, confess, ask forgiveness, and repent. Change our ways.

explanation

This story ventures into areas that are sometimes a little uncomfortable for Lutherans. Let’s start with the story. There was a woman at a well, by herself when Jesus and His disciples walk up for water. This is the first shocking action for two reasons: First, the woman was a Samaritan. Samaritans and Jews were enemies; it was a social taboo for a Jew to strike up a conversation, as Jesus did. Secondly, it was against custom and tradition for a male to speak to a female who is by herself. The woman asks Jesus why Jesus is speaking to her, knowing that she is a Samaritan. Jesus tells her that if she only knew who was asking her, and if she knew what she could provide, Jesus would give her life-giving water. She replies that she’d love this water, but doesn’t know where to get it or what it is. He replies that it is life-giving water. To get the water, she needs to go get her husband. She replies that she doesn’t have a husband. Jesus then reveals that He knows she doesn’t have a husband, but rather has had five husbands and is now living with a man to whom she is not married. In that culture, this made her an adulterer and reinforced the idea that she was an outcast from society. She begins to realize that she is talking to someone special. Then, Jesus reveals to her that He is the Messiah. This story can be uncomfortable because it blurs the lines of forgiveness. Jesus was quite clear when He said that the living water was for her, and that He would provide it. However, He told her to get her husband knowing full well that she didn’t have one and was, in fact, living in sin. He confronted her this way to make her realize she needed to confront her sins and seek forgiveness before she could really taste the goodness of God’s grace. So do we have to do things before we can be forgiven? We believe that God’s grace comes as a free gift. Nothing we can do can earn it. At the same time, God wants us to live lives worthy of

that grace. We need to repent and truly try to change our ways. Jesus was telling this woman that the living waters were given freely to her. Yet that doesn’t give her permission to sin freely. Rather it is a wake-up call to get her life in order. Jesus calls us to live lives that follow God’s laws and teachings. We do that not out of a sense of obligation, but rather as a joyful response to God’s love for us. 1. Have you ever done something that made others so mad at you that they didn’t even want to be around you? What was it? Why did you do it? We are trying to put the kids in the position of the woman. Have they ever been shunned by others? Have they ever felt abandoned or alone? This lesson builds a little on the work from last week on Zacchaeus. In that lesson we learned that Jesus accepts. Here we’ll learn how Jesus accepts and forgives. To follow-up, ask them if they could see themselves shunning others if the situation had been reversed. 2. What does it feel like to be rejected by others? Does it depend at all on who is rejecting you? How so? So how did it feel? Did it make them feel hurt? Some kids may talk and say it doesn’t bother them. Try to push this a little and get beyond what may be just a front that they put up. Ask them if it makes a difference who is rejecting them (a stranger, best friend, sibling, or a parent)? Of course it does! Our lives and our faith are all about relationships. When a relationship becomes broken, it hurts both people involved in the relationship. Later you might want to refer back to this when we talk about sin as being a part of a broken relationship with God. 3. As a group, read the story of Jesus and the woman at the well, found in John 4:5-26. Why did Jesus ask her for water, knowing who she was? What were the sins she committed? Throughout the Bible, we see Jesus reaching out to sinners and outcasts. We see that no one is beyond hope to be saved, that we are loved no matter what. By this point, your kids should be able to understand what it is to be accepted by God. The sin she committed was adultery. In those days, divorce was outlawed, and to live with someone outside of marriage was just a step up from prostitution. She was an outcast from her society—that’s why she was at the well

children youth family

all by herself. The other women would come to the well in the mornings and in the evenings; it was very rare for women to travel alone in those days. 4. What is the living water that Jesus is talking about? How could the woman drink that living water? Let your class ponder this for a while...the living water is the life in God’s love that only Jesus can provide. It is a gift from God. It is a whole way of looking at life. The woman would drink the water by accepting and understanding that Jesus is indeed the Messiah. But it winds up being a little more complicated than this. Continue on to the next question. 5. Why did Jesus ask her to go get her husband? (which He knew she didn’t have) before she could drink that living water? Jesus wanted her to see and admit that she had sinned. Jesus does this by leading her into admitting that she doesn’t have a husband, and then by confronting her with her sin. Jesus told her to get her husband in order to get her to confess. Confession is an important part of forgiveness. We must confess before we can be forgiven. But it goes a step further. We also need to repent and make a conscious effort to change our ways. Forgiveness without confession and repentence loses its power. It is what we call ‘cheap grace.’ 6. If Christ will forgive us our sins no matter what, why do we need to do things to correct our sins? For that matter, why do we need to avoid sinning at all? This can be a dangerous way to think. Just because God will forgive our sins and His forgiveness is given as a gift does not mean that we can continue to knowingly sin. God doesn’t demand that we do good; He lets us choose. But when we truly repent, we recognize our sin and humble ourselves and ask for forgiveness. We recognize and admit that we have done wrong. When seek forgiveness, our hearts are changed, and the Holy Spirit is at work in us. We want to live better lives in a joyful response to God’s forgiveness. God calls us to live good lives; this is our goal as well. Memory work: John 4:13-14 Ask if there are any prayer or praise requests then close together in prayer.

March 2012 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a

faith formation

CYF Pancake Breakfast Come support both junior and senior high youth from Lord of Life going to camp and mission trips this summer!

April 21, 9-11 am in Fellowship Hall summer 2012

Still spots available on all of the summer trips—here’s what is in store! • BWCA Adventure (June 24-28) • ELCA National Youth Gathering (July 13-23) • AWOL Kentucky (July 28-August 7) Visit lordoflife.org/srhighsummer for more details.

living room

The next monthly sr. high gathering is on Monday, March 5. Bring a friend!

save the date

The Second Annual Lord of Life CYF Fun Run/Walk is on Saturday, June 2. Such a fun event last year— we can’t wait to do it again! Join us (or volunteer!) as we run or walk in support of Lord of Life children and youth participating in summer trips and camps. Registration opens March 1. Visit lordoflife.org/funrun for more information. Questions? See Elizabeth. us Gerad Rem n (C3 ) Confirmatio

C3 retreats

The last two retreat options for 7th-8th graders needing to complete a retreat this year are in March. On March 3 there is a C3 Saturday retreat. This 14-hour retreat involves outside activities, service, worship, recreation and a full day of fun! For more information, visit lordoflife.org/ c3saturday. Youth Quake (see details at right) is the final retreat option for the year.

confirmation photos

Time to sign up for your confirmation photo! All current 9th graders need to make an appointment to have their fiveminute sitting. Call the church office at 763.420.5015.

summer stretch registration! Bigger than ever this year, Summer Stretch registration opened February 18 and will close on March 4. If you want to take part in the greatest summer ever, sign up at lordoflife.org/summerstretch today! Questions? Contact Gerad.

Elizabeth Pedersen Senior High

Raul Garcia III Junior High

March 2012 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a

recharge Sunday, March 4 at 7-8:30 pm; come and enjoy group fun—we’ll have snacks & awesome wacky games! jr. high leadership team Jr. high leadership team meets on March 4 from 5-6 pm. Youth Quake On March 9-11, Midwest youth gather in the Wisconsin Dells for fun, fellowship, music, workshops, dances and a ton more stuff! Pack a swimsuit, Bible, and fun attitude! Cost is $280. For more details and to register, visit lordoflife.org/youthquake. Questions? See Raul. jr. high mission trip The sixth annual jr. high mission trip is June 17-23. Our past experiences have been awesome! We work on low-income housing in the Rockford, Illinois area and helping their foodshelf organize and serve food. Cost is $350; parent and participant meeting is Wednesday, March 7 at 7:30 pm. Visit lordoflife.org/jhmissiontrip for more information and to register. sunday night festival (SNF) Sunday, March 18 at 7 pm is blending fun, good humor, great music, fantastic speakers, devotions and more! Speaker is Dennis “Tiger” McLuen Worship and music by Taylor Wilson and Lord of Life Youth Band. jr. high camp On July 15-20 (Sunday-Friday), we’ll be going to Luther Park in beautiful Danbury, Wisconsin. Camp week is an action-packed, high-energy, wild week of adventure for jr. highers (who have completed grades 6-9). Take part in all the wacky activities and hang out with the coolest of counselors while you learn more about your faith.

1 Timothy 4:12 “Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity”

UthINK

e want to know what you our youth THINK! Each month a new question will be proposed and we want to know what our fifth and sixth graders have to say about it. Write a 1-2 paragraph article and you could see it published in LifeTIMES. This month, thank you to Maya Argenta for sharing what Bible event she would have liked to have been at and why?

I would have liked to have been at Jesus’ birth because I would have felt what it was like to be in Jesus’ presence. It would be amazing to see Him in person rather than just in painted pictures. I would get to see His first reaction to see if He laughed, cried, or did nothing. I would have loved to hold little baby Jesus in my arms. —Maya Argenta

As announced in February’s LifeTIMES, we invite all 5th graders (and any 6-9th graders who need instruction) and parents to attend a special event to prepare for first communion. This preparation takes the form of a Communion Festival. We require that at least one parent attend the festival with each child. Two identical festivals will be held on Saturday, March 17 from 9–11:30 am or Monday, March 19 from 6–8:30 pm. A letter was sent in February which included more details. Students will receive First Communion on Saturday, April 14 at 5:30 pm or Sunday, April 15 at 8:30, 9:45, or 11 am. For more information or to sign up, visit lordoflife.org/ firstcommunion. Questions? Contact Lynn Leisen. Lynn Leisen Home Faith in the

Club 56!

runswick Zone! Bring your friends and join us for a day of bowling, laser tag, arcade games, pizza, pop, and fellowship. Cost is $17 per child on Sunday, March 25 from 3-7 pm. Start inviting friends. Amanda loves to bowl—if anyone beats her score, she’ll kiss your bowling shoes!

great video game drive

Next Month’s Question: Is it always easy to follow Jesus? Due to Clancy no later than March 28, please.

first communion festival

children children youth youth family family

In March, fifth and sixth graders will take part in the Ronald McDonald Great Video Game Drive to raise funds to support Ronald McDonald House. Bring in used or new video or computer games to help support the mission. The Ronald McDonald House has a corporate partnership with a company who gives us the market value of the recycled games. Proceeds benefit the families they serve.

sunday night festival (SNF)

All sixth graders are invited to the SNF on March 18—see junior high information on the Page 16 for more info!

Heather Hjelmstad Ministry of Inclusion/Nursery Administration

March 2012 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a

Amanda “C la Upper Elem ncy” entary/Clu b 56

faith formation

Be doers of the word, and not merely hearers. James 1:22

The Season of Lent by Lynn Leisen, Faith in the Home Ministry

his year the season of Lent began on Ash Wednesday (February 22) and ends with Easter services on April 8. Lent allows us time to recall the Easter story and absorb its meaning. Be ready for Easter and its promises by choosing penitential or repentant practices that encourage inner renewal and reconciliation with God. Set aside time for prayer, studying the Bible, and participation in Lenten worship services. Meditate on Christ’s sacrifice and its meaning for us today. Observing Lent can help you experience the full joy of Easter!

Noah’s Ark Nursery

summer 2012 registration is open visit lordoflife.org/summer

oah’s Ark Nursery is available during all worship services at Lord of Life for ages birth to 3 years. The worship service may also be heard from the narthex. Our staff is available if you have questions. Please note the following:

No matter what life may bring—it’s all about landing in God’s loving arms. ...feel trapped by hurts, habits, hangs-ups, circumstances or addictions? the landing is a confidential gathering for hope & support which meets weekly on Tuesdays from 6:30-8:30 pm in the Youth Room. all youth ages 12-18 are welcome. snacks are provided; no registration necessary.

Debbie Zaic Administration

We may give out snacks, please let us know if your child has a food allergy or you do not want them to have snack. Thank you. If your child has a cold, the flu (has vomited in the last 24 hours) or a runny nose of any kind, please keep your child with you. Thank you. And especially during the winter months, if your child’s shoes are wet—please remove them before entering the nursery. Thank you.

Pennie Soppeland Administration

Kirstin Delp Early Childhood Ministr y

March 2012 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a

Karing Kingdom Preschool March Bible Verse: “Come and follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will make you fishers of men.” Matthew 4:19

children youth family

Field trip to Maple Grove Library!

Happy March!

Precious Playdough Message!

e begin our month with a continuation of our Little Travelers theme visiting Mexico, Germany, China and Italy. We are having such fun exploring different countries! March 5-9 is Lutheran Schools Week. Our theme this year is “CELEBRATE who you are and build disciples!” Next it’s rainbows & leprechauns & shamrocks as we celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. We end our month with some dino-mite dinosaur friends! Karing Kingdom will be closed March 26-30 for spring break. We continue to take registrations for the 2012-13 school year.

Questions about Karing Kingdom Preschool? Call 763.420.5015 x127 or email kingdom@ lordoflife.org.

Spoon by Amy Krouse Rosenthal Celebrate what makes everyone special with this hilarious picture book. A funny and reassuring story about self-esteem.

A Child’s Good Night Prayer by Grace Maccarone Send your little one off to sleep with this soothing bedtime rhyme—luminous art!

March 2012 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a

Nonprofit US Postage Paid Maple Grove, MN Permit #14

ADDRESS 7401 COUNTY ROAD 101, MAPLE GROVE, MN 55311-4313 RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED - TIME SENSITIVE MATERIAL 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. The deadline for the April issue is March 1. © 2012 Lord of Life Lutheran

Caught Reading LifeTIMES

7th grade C3 Christmas party caught reading LifeTIMES: Jonathan First’s class with Katie, Sara, Kendall, Mason, Gavin—thank you to Danette Johnson for the photo!

Barb Bury and Rhonda Evans-Hofer with the Mission Jamaica Pig Out Project

Gail & Dan Hanka getting ready to scuba dive off Bartolome Island in the Galapagos Archilpelago

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