March2014

LifeTIMES

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

March 2014

Conversations with Jesus

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he season of Lent is traditionally a contemplative time, a time when we look inward and reflect on our spiritual life and our relationship with Jesus. The season of Lent begins on Ash Wednesday, which this year falls during the first week of March.

Ash Wednesday services with the imposition of ashes and Holy Communion are Wednesday, March 5, at 11 am and 7 pm. Soup lunch will follow the 11 am service; soup supper will precede the 7 pm service, beginning at 6 pm.

This year our Lenten theme is going to focus on Conversations with Jesus. Jesus changed the life of every person he met in the Gospels, through powerful experiences and words that led them to unexpected and transforming answers to their big questions.

During weekend worship as well as our midweek services each Thursday, we will examine a different conversation that Jesus had with someone in the New Testament. Our hope is that these conversations will inspire us to have our own conversations with Jesus. This is the schedule for those conversations: March 8/9

The Skeptic

March 13

The Wedding Party

March 15/16

The Sisters

March 20

The Blind Man

March 22/23

The Tax Collector

March 27

The Man by the Pool

March 29/30

The Insider

April 3

The Adulteress

April 5/6

The Outsider

April 10

The Rich Man

ConversaTions wiTh esus J

Thursday evening services will begin at 7 pm in Samaritan Hall. Soup supper will precede worship, beginning at 6 pm each week. Enjoy conversations with each other at supper, and then delve deeper in the theme of Conversations with Jesus during Lenten worship, featuring sermons again this year by pastors who are members at Lord of Life and are retired or employed elsewhere.

March 2014 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a

Lord of Life exists to proclaim the saving grace of Jesus Christ and for its faith community to witness and serve God gratefully in daily life.

—Lord of Life’s Global Ends Policy

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generosity 8

worship Saturdays at 5:30 pm with Holy Communion Sundays at 8:30, 9:45 and 11 am with Holy Communion the first and third Sundays Healing service on Monday, March 10, from 6:307:30 pm in Lord of Life’s Prayer Chapel Third Sunday worship at 9:30 am on March 16 at Ambassador - Good Samaritan Society in New Hope (see article on Page 6) Third Wednesday worship services March 19: 12:45 pm at Arbor Lakes and 2:30 pm at Rose Arbor Assisted Living in Maple Grove March1/2 Transfiguration of our Lord Preaching: Pastor Todd Buegler Special Music Saturday: Praise Band Sunday: Joyful Noise (8:30 am), Canticle Choir (9:45 and 11 am) March 5, Ash Wednesday Services with Imposition of Ashes and Holy Communion at 11 am and 7 pm (see cover article for more details)

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

March 8/9 Preaching: Pastor Peter Geisendorfer-Lindgren Special Music Saturday: Praise Band Sunday: Canticle Choir (8:30 and 9:45 am), Bel Canto (all services) March 13, Midweek Lenten Service at 7 pm March 15/16 Preaching: Pastor Peter Geisendorfer-Lindgren Saturday: Praise Band Sunday: New Life Ensemble March 20, Midweek Lenten Service at 7 pm March 22/23 Preaching: Pastor Peter Geisendorfer-Lindgren Special Music Saturday: Praise Band Sunday: to be decided (8:30 am), Canticle Choir (9:45 and 11 am) March 27, Midweek Lenten Service at 7 pm

One Mission One World: Jamaica’s Italian dinner was wellattended in support of Lord of Life’s missionaries. And it looks like everyone enjoyed their meal!

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March 29/30 Preaching: Pastor David Lippitt Special Music Saturday: Praise Band Sunday: to be decided

March 2014 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a

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Hands and Feet

by Pastoral Intern Taylor Wilson

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he last six months have been a whirlwind for me. I got married in August, began my studies to be a pastor at Luther Seminary in September, and then started as an intern at Lord of Life. After a strong start to the fall semester, I began to feel confident in my new identity as a husband, student, and intern. Each brought on its own stresses, but with the help of God, I was feeling successful in each area.

I can remember the moment that feeling began to change. I received a text from my father-in-law in the middle of a class at Luther Seminary on November 5.

My mother-in-law had recently been dealing with back issues, which led to a more severe health concern. “Can you come to the hospital? We need you.”

I struggled to move, staring at the text message in front of me. I frantically gathered my things and made my way to the hospital. We found out later that week that my mother-in-law had been in an unknown battle with pancreatic cancer for quite some time. I had encouragement from my professors to be spending time with my family, reminding me of my priorities. They were the hands and feet of Jesus, caring for my family in a time of need.

As we began to make plans for what the future might look like, the timeline sped up quicker than we had planned. Nearly three weeks after being diagnosed, my mother-in-law went to be with Jesus. In the midst of important events at work, prepping for finals, and getting ready to leave for our honeymoon, life happened. We were able to surround my motherin-law with a time of laughter and tears, prayers and songs, reminiscing about memories. In what became a season of pain, she passed peacefully surrounded by the ones she loved so dearly. My professors continued to encourage me to be with family, and Lord of Life encouraged Julie and I to take as much time as we needed, covering our responsibilities, and even showing up to pay respects and support us at the funeral. They were the hands and feet of Jesus, caring for my family in a time of need.

Although the semester didn’t end the way I envisioned, with the help of God (and a supporting cast of caring professors, co-workers, and classmates), I persevered. One thing I’ve taken from this season of life: It’s evident I’m in multiple faith communities that are living out their calling as God’s people.

How have you experienced God lately? Have you been on the receiving end of an answered prayer? Have you been the answer to someone else’s prayer?

Be on the lookout; God is using you (and others) to be His hands and feet, sharing grace, hope, and love to a world in need.

Colossians 3:14-16 (NRSV) says, “Above all, clothe yourselves in love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony.

And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in the one body.

And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly; teach and admonish one another in all wisdom; and with gratitude in your hearts sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs to God.”

March 2014 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a

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Lord of Life Lives Christ Together baptisms

bereavements

weddings

January 4 Archer Joel Fore

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

January 4 Kara Schwartz & Stefan Wolf

January 5 Charlotte Lynn Cook

Kristi Ball and family at the death of her friend

January 12 Elin Josephine Current Levi Brent Lillehei Brooke Marie Peterson

Lisa Boyer and family at the death of her brother

January 18 Auree Ann Evans Tyler Christopher Krueger

Don Clark and family at the death of his aunt Dana Craig and family at the death of his friend

January 19 Finn Henry Webb

Scott Erdmann and family at the death of his father

January 26 Quinn Jae Hesse Caitlyn Grace Davis Oliver David Juliot Ellie Grace Knoblauch

Heather Henning and family at the death of her grandmother

At Lord of Life we baptize individuals at any age. The next baptism class is on Saturday, March 8, from 10-11 am; no preregistration is necessary. To schedule a baptism, please call the church office at 763.420.5015.

Rollie Henning and family at the death of his aunt Betty Klande and family at the death of her sister

January 11 Suzanne Sem & Steve Plant Mary Jo Goodale & Brandon Hanna January 18 Katie Simonett & Tom Jorgensen January 25 Olga Kibasova & Alex Huseth

welcome new members Doug & Rachel Arntson Spencer & Jean Bakke with Lukas and Landon Cathy Dunham Jeff & Deb Erager Paul & Amanda Frake Eric Grant & Kaia Mathsen

Kathryn Lorenz and family at the death of her cousin

Devon & Gina Halberg with Benjamin, Bryce, and Briella

Angie Schiebel and family at the death of her niece’s husband

Dave & Jody Hansen

Glorianne Svitak and family at the death of her mother David Velenchenko and family at the death of his father

You are invited to send faith stories, original photos, and artwork to LifeTIMES Editor Bev Mello at bevm@lordoflife.org. We would love to share them in a future issue as space allows. Thank you.

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March 2014 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a

First Time for Celebrate Recovery?

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Here’s What to Expect

by Michelle Welinski

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never take it lightly when someone has the courage to come for the very first time to Celebrate Recovery.

Personally, I know what a big first step that is. If you have been feeling a nudge to check out Celebrate Recovery, the following information might make your first step a little easier:

Kelly & Kristi Hauenstein with Reese, Riley, and Avery Brian & Rachel LaFleur with Landon and Aleah

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Celebrate Recovery meets every Tuesday evening—all year round.

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Dinner is served in Fellowship Hall from 5:45-6:30 pm. Children and teens are welcome for dinner before going to the nursery or participating in Celebration Place or ‘the landing’ (see article on Page 12). If you are not able to make it for dinner—that’s OK, be here at 6:30 pm for the large group time!

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At 6:30 pm the group moves to Samaritan Hall for a time of worship and prayer. Teaching and testimonies are alternated each week. A teaching is done by a pastor or a Celebrate Recovery leader. A testimony may be shared by a group member, someone from another Celebrate Recovery, or we may watch a testimony on video. This large group format is for adults and teens. Children in Celebration Place go downstairs for their own time of worship, prayer, and teaching. Teens leave for their large group time at the conclusion of worship.

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We end our large group time at about 7:20 pm and then move to small groups. All small groups are gender specific. This makes for a safe and supportive sharing environment. Teens also move into their genderspecific small groups.

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If it is your first night, you will not be in your typical small group that evening. Rather you will meet with one or two Celebrate Recovery leaders in an informational group. This will be your opportunity to learn more about what Celebrate Recovery is—and isn’t—as well as a chance for you to ask questions. The leaders will help you determine what small group will best suit your specific need.

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All small groups end at 8:30 pm with the opportunity to gather in Fellowship Hall for a last cup of coffee and some dessert. Children and teens are welcome too!

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About 15% of those in attendance come because they struggle with some sort of addiction. Everyone else comes to work through a hurt or hangup.

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Anonymity and confidentiality are strongly followed. Who’s seen here stays here, and what’s said here stays here.

Jim & Bonnie Marten Bryan O’Neil Randy & Bonnie Planting with Luke Jeff Smith & Jen Thulien Smith with Ethan and Cooper John & Lori Stifter with Marissa, Kalina, and Christopher Tudy Struck Beverly Thorkelson Chris & Jan Vokal with Cayden and Dylan Bruce & Sonia Wessman Membership at Lord of Life means you make a commitment to be an active participant in congregational life. The expectation of not only new members—but all members— is to worship regularly, grow in faith, serve others, and support the church & its programs financially.

Contact Lori Schwartz or Karen Klevar or visit lordoflife.org/ newmembers for more information.

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

Please know that if you are struggling with any type of hurt, habit or hang-up, you will be warmly welcomed at Celebrate Recovery. There is no judgment or shame. Just a bunch of men and women working together to overcome their hurts, habits and hang-ups! Questions? Contact Michelle Welinski at michellew@lordoflife.org or 763.420.5015 x118 or better yet—just show up on Tuesday night!

March 2014 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a

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spirit Dear Adult Ministry Staff and Pastors— The support provided by Lord of Life Church has truly been a blessing to the Hope Lodge in so many ways. Thank you so much for the “bags of hope.” Our guests really appreciate the gift of a snack as they wait at their cancer center for treatment.

Thank you for all your support.

—Mary Wiles, Hope Lodge Manager

New Altar and More

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s shared in last month’s LifeTIMES, the Good Samaritan Society-Ambassador Outreach Ministry is going to be celebrating a big event on Sunday, March 2, at 2 pm—you are invited to join us!

With Lord of Life as the lead donor, member Sharon Quast as our seamstress, members ‘Builder Bob’ and Kelly Rodenberg as our carpenters, and member Georgia Helvick as our banner maker, we will be dedicating Good Samaritan Society - Ambassador’s new Chapel altar, cross, paraments, and banners.

There will be a short dedication service, cake, coffee, and fellowship. We also will be honoring Pastor John Skeie who retired from Good Samaritan Society - Ambassador on December 31 as its chaplain for the past 10 years. Pastor John has been integral in helping to secure these additions for the chapel. Hope to see you there on March 2!

Good Samaritan Society - Ambassador is located at 8100 Medicine Lake Road, New Hope, MN, 55427. Questions? Contact Georgia Helvick at 763.416.4577 (ghelvick@comcast.net) or Sue Klaseus at 763.417.7127 (sklaseus@goodsam.com).

Through the Eyes of a Child

by Shar Moseng

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y daughter, Jenna, has been volunteering at Hope Lodge with me for over two years and just recently celebrated her 11th birthday there helping serve dinner to the guests. The guests love having children visit since they are oftentimes away from their loved ones, and Jenna’s experiences have proven to be priceless. This goes to show that there is a place for all family members at Hope Lodge—both big and small. Jenna shares her thoughts below.

Shar: What kinds of things do you do at Hope Lodge?

Jenna: Help make the food that we bring. Make table decorations for holidays. Pass out Terry’s milkshakes to the guests.

Sometimes I play the piano.

Cut and organize the desserts.

Sometimes I sneak a piece when you are not watching - YUM! Shar: What is your favorite thing to do there?

Jenna: My favorite thing to do is to talk to the guests during dinner and make new friends. They always ask me LOTS of questions.

Shar: What have you learned by going to Hope Lodge?

Jenna: I think it helps me learn Shar and Jenna serving at that there are many people that Hope Lodge in January suffer from cancer. They are just normal people having a rough time. My Grandma Moseng and my Grandpa Paulsen had that same problem, and I miss them a lot.

Please consider volunteering with your children at Hope Lodge.

Contact Paula Thomas for more information or visit lordoflife.org/hopelodge.

Got talent? The Third Annual Hope Idol Talent Contest is on Tuesday, April 1, from 6:30-8 pm. Interested? RSVP to Debbie Nelson at debbie.nelson@cancer.org by March 28.

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March 2014 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a

spirit New Learning Opportunities for Session 5—

L5 One-shot Forums

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oming Sunday mornings this spring, L5 One-shot Forums will be an exciting new option for the final L5 session this program year. One-shots are the opportunity to hear a new speaker and new topic each Sunday morning. No registrationis needed. Come once, twice, or all four Sundays. We have invited terrific speakers to share their expertise.

Save the date, April 9—

Not for Women Only

ONE-SHOT FORUM

March 30: Loss of Dreams: A Special Kind of Grief.

Mr. Ted Bowman, trainer, educator, and consultant, specializes in change and transition, whether it occurs in families, an organization or the community. Ted will explain how plans for ourselves and others get interrupted and taken from us as a result of death, diagnosis, divorce, dismissal, or other loss events in our lives. Ted will present perspectives and resources for keeping hope alive.

April 6: God’s Treasure: Ethnic Difference. Dr. Eric Barreto, assistant professor of New Testament at Luther Seminary, will discuss the tendency to imagine that our faith “solves” the problems of diversity by making us all one, the same.

In contrast, Dr. Barreto will explain how the author of Luke-Acts views our differences as a gift from God to be treasured, not a difficulty to be overcome.

April 27: Decision-Making and the Bible. Dr. Sarah Henrich, professor of New Testament at Luther Seminary, will discuss how we as Christians are called to make decisions in and about every aspect of human life, that often finds us differing with one another about what is the “right thing” to do. Join us for some first steps into considering moral decisionmaking in light of scripture.

May 4: Hoping for More: On Cancer, Faith, and Grace.

Dr. Deanna Thompson, professor of Religion at Hamline University, gets paid to talk about God for a living, but a Stage IV cancer diagnosis at age 42 interrupted the conversation. Come join her in the discussion about how we talk about God’s presence, God’s activity, and God’s grace in the midst of the worst times of life.

One-shots are a great opportunity to give L5 a shot! Invite your friends and neighbors. Identical sessions will be offered at 9:45 and 11 am each Sunday morning listed above. Take a shot at L5 One-shot Forums this spring!

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alter Sundberg, professor at Luther Seminary, will be speaking at Word for Women on Wednesday, April 9, at 9:30 am in Fellowship Hall. He is an amazing speaker and storyteller who was very well-received the last time he was a guest at Lord of Life. Very interesting, you won’t want to miss his talk! All are welcome, it’s not for women only. More details will be provided in April’s LifeTIMES.

Give thanks to the LORD, for He is good; His love endures forever. Psalm 118:29

Spring Study

by Pastor Karen Sue Greimel

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t the center of the Bible is the book of Psalms.

This magnificent collection of prayers, songs, and laments expresses the heart and soul of humanity.

David and other writers confess their sins, express their doubts and fears, and ask God for help in times of trouble along with expressions of thanksgiving, praise and worship. Whether despairing or rejoicing, you will hear honest words from tender hearts that long to have a deep and genuine relationship with God. You will be blessed to see how much these Psalms apply to you and your life’s journey of faith.

All women are invited to gather together on Wednesday mornings from 9:30-11 am. This Word for Women study of Psalms begins March 12 in Fellowship Hall. It will begin with large group time which will include a presentation

by Pastor Karen Sue Greimel. At various times, there will also be worship, service projects, coffee, and treats. After gathering in a large group, we will break into small groups for further study and conversation. All are welcome and childcare is available. For more information or to register, please visit lordoflife.org/wordforwomen.

March 2014 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a

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generosity

january 2014 budget year-to-date Actual

Total member contributions All other

$287,219 $281,807 $46,357

Total receipts

Budget

Difference $5,412

$44,140

$2,217

$333,576 $325,947

$7,629

Continuing the CAT Discussion

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ontinuing our look at the Church Assessment Tool (CAT) results for Lord of Life, this month I want to look at what we learned from two questions. There are 85 questions that all churches who take the CAT have to use. This allows comparison with other congregations and uniformity in evaluating the results. But after those 85 there was also the opportunity to ask specific questions unique to our situation. The two questions below are examples of such questions. We wanted feedback about how the new addition to our church was viewed and secondly, how a capital campaign to eliminate the debt caused by the new addition might be viewed.

The first question was this: The new addition to the church has enhanced ministry opportunities.

Respondents overwhelmingly agreed with that statement. About 70% of responses were agree or strongly agree and another 15% answered tend to agree. There was 11% responding “don’t know” so there were very few negative reactions to our new addition.

The expanded opportunities for adult and youth education in the new areas have been very important.

The larger Fellowship Hall has been good both for doughnuts on Sunday morning and for larger events throughout the week. And one of the big positives has been the commons areas that allow for relaxed conversations before or after events. Overall people like the new space a lot.

Three years ago we undertook a capital campaign to pay for the new addition. That campaign, which ends on April 30, will raise about $3 million of the $4 million cost. It is my desire to retire the remaining debt so that it does not become a burden to our operating budget. But we wanted to find out what you thought, so we asked this question on the CAT: On the whole, I am in favor of our congregation moving forward with a debt reduction/retirement campaign. There were 63% of respondents who answered: strongly agree, agree or tend to agree. Another 30% answered don’t know indicating they would need more information, but that they weren’t necessarily against it. That is a very positive response for any question where the result will mean being asked to give more money.

The response to these two questions has helped the Congregation Council to decide to move forward with a capital campaign to eliminate the new addition debt. You will hear a lot more about that campaign in the next few months, but now I hope you understand how we listened to you when coming to this important decision.

—Pastor Peter

Lord of Life Weekly Giving — January 2014 $180,000 $160,000 $140,000 $120,000 $100,000 $80,000 $60,000 $40,000 $20,000 $0

1/5 1/12 1/19 1/26

Actual $160,584 $59,458 $63,091 Budget $81,487 $81,487 $81,487

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March 2014 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a

$50,443 $81,487

adult

Warm Hearts for Cold Hands

by Joyce Martin

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nip, snip, snip could be heard as the OWLs cut out fleece liners for men’s mittens on Thursday, January 9, for the Mittens on a Mission ministry. Vicki Dixon shared how God wanted her to make mittens for His freezing people who are homeless. Every night there are nearly 7,000 people in Minnesota without homes and approximately 2,200 are under the age of 17. With the help of Vicki’s sister, Donna Rizner, a member of Lord of Life, the ministry began distributing the mittens through Alan Law and the Salvation Army two years ago. Gordy Martin read from Romans 12 reminding us that we need each other…OWLs, those who are homeless, and all God’s children!

OWLs Events

Thursday, March 6 (Please note this is a program change): “Lunch and a Movie” beginning at noon with a freewill donation lunch in Fellowship Hall. It is a short walk to Lord of Life’s theater downstairs to see an inpiring movie and enjoy popcorn. Don’t miss the fun!

Wednesday, March 19: Worship at Rose Arbor at 2:30 pm

...older, wiser, or Lutheran?

Even if you are not, you will be warmly welcomed at all of the OWLs’ events.

Please sign up for all activities on the bulletin board near the welcome desk in the narthex. Visit lordoflife.org/owls for more photos as well as stories of recent events. Questions about this vibrant seniors’ ministry? Contact Joyce or Gordy Martin directly at grjsmartin@ embarqmail.com or 763.497.7355.

Thursday, March 20 (Please note this is a program change): Feed My Starving Children (FMSC). We will be packing specially-formulated meals for malnourished children; these meals will be shipped to over 70 countries.

Packing of the meals does require being able to stand for two hours. After this service project, we will go to Carol’s Restaurant for a late lunch or a treat on your own.

There will also be a shopping opportunity at the restaurant in Vintage Rose’s Gifts. Leave at 11 am and return at 4 pm.

Cost is $3 for the bus.

Friday, March 21: LifeTIMES labeling in Fellowship Hall at 9:30 am. Coffee is always on!

save the dates Thursday, April 3: “American Curry Pie with Aamera Siddiqui” who is a playwright and performer.

Ms. Siddiqui will perform a one-woman play regarding life in a Muslim home. Mark your calendar and bring a friend! A freewill lunch will be served in Fellowship Hall beginning at noon.

Thursday, April 17: Travel to the Old Log Theatre for lunch and the play, “Steel Magnolias.” We will leave church at 11 am and return by 3:30 pm. The all-inclusive cost is $43. Reserve your seat and make your entrée selection in the church office.

March 2014 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a

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adult

KTIS-sponsored Mission Trip

T Acts 29

Information about the Acts 29 mission trip will be available at narthex tables on March 22-23 and March 29-30. There will be an informational meeting on Sunday, March 30, at 12:15 pm in the Theater.

This year’s trip will be to Tuscaloosa, where we’ll work with Habitat for Humanity on homes damaged by tornados 2½ years ago. Contact Merle and Michelle Waldron at 763.420.5388 or mmwaldron@comcast.net for more information or stop by the narthex tables and the informational meeting.

Acts 29

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Tuscaloosa, Alabama

July 26-August 3, 2014

he Twin Cities Christian radio station, KTIS (98.5 FM), is sponsoring a mission trip for staff and listeners to the Dominican Republic (DR).

KTIS has asked Pastor Dave McCarty and his wife Lisa to be the mission leaders. The group will serve in the same location as the Lord of Life team (San Cristobal).

The mission team will work alongside local residents on the community garden, pouring cement floors for families who currently sleep on dirt, sharing the Gospel with kids and teachers with fun stories, games, crafts, and skits, and getting to know the neighbors in their homes. The team will serve from April 26-May 3; Lord of Life family and friends are welcome. If you missed the January trip to the DR, this could be a chance to experience what everyone is talking about. Interested in joining the team or have questions? Please contact Pastor Dave at davem@lordoflife.org.

Dominican Republic 2014

by Joe Wenker

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his was my fifth year traveling to the San Cristobal region of the Dominican Republic and perhaps the trip I looked forward to the most. Five years ago I started working on a caretaker’s home. Subsequent years we worked on the community center among other projects. Today not only is the caretaker’s home complete—the community center is finished and also a dental clinic has been added. It has allowed our group to expand into other areas of need in the region.

One project was to pour concrete floors for homeowners in the area. Most residents have dirt floors inside their homes. The simple act of pouring a concrete floor adds immensely to the health quality of their lives.

Another focus has been a community garden. This garden is to be used as an educational tool for the local population to learn many of the skills we have already acquired. That is, to grow produce for personal consumption.

Joe Wenker (top) and Pastor Dave McCarty with Joe smoothing a The plan is to educate the new cement floor. school children as part of their education so, over time, they understand and incorporate this activity to improve their health and lives.

Every year we go with a group of 20-30 volunteers. We apply our various Godgiven talents to the tasks at hand. It truly is both amazing and a blessing to see what we have accomplished in His name by week’s end. Won’t you join us next year?

For more information and photos from One Mission One World: Dominican Republic, visit lordoflife.org/DR.

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March 2014 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a

adult A Thrivent Financial Event on March 3 at 6:15 pm—

Social Security: Strategize to Maximize

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hen it comes to navigating Social Security retirement benefits, the choices can be overwhelming. When should I apply? How much will I be taxed? Why do I need to think about this now?

On Monday, March 3, please join us for a complimentary presentation to learn how to sort through the hundreds of options to help ensure the choices you make are right for you—for the rest of your life. The presentation will be hosted by Lord of Life member John Jenneke, licensed financial consultant, and joined by Marcus Anderson, also a financial consultant with Thrivent. The presentation will be 6:15-7:15 pm at Lord of Life. Refreshments will be served. You are encouraged to attend—bring a friend!

Please respond by 9 am on March 3 to reserve your spot. Call or email John Jenneke at 952.229.5000 or John.Jenneke@ Thrivent.com. No products will be sold at this event.

emergency foodshelf network The next Fare For All is on Thursday, March 6, from 4-6 pm at Lord of Life! To volunteer packing in the EFN facility, visit lordoflife.org/efn for details.

community garden registration It’s time to register for LifeGARDEN, Lord of Life’s community garden. Anyone can have a plot (or more than one) in the garden. There is a fee of $30 to help cover operating costs. Each plotholder is required to help weekly in the mission portion of the garden, which produced over 12,000 pounds of vegetables for CROSS Services last year. To register, visit lordoflife.org/lifegarden or visit the church office.

Mission in a Suitcase

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e need your help! As shared in last month’s LifeTIMES, each One Mission One World: Jamaica missionaries brings a suitcase filled with supplies donated by the generous members of Lord of Life.

Please ask family and friends to donate suitcases (must have rollers) to transport critical supplies. A list of supplies needed will be available at the corner display near the main office.

Additionally, we are in need of any size boys’ underwear along with boys’ and men’s belts. Girls’ and women’s underwear and sports bras are also a great need. Donation bins are located in the Service Center. Collection ends March 16. God’s love is spreading throughout the beautiful island of Jamaica and the missionaries from Lord of Life will be growing in their faith.

Thank you for your strong support. For more details, visit lordoflife.org/jamaica.

Movers and Shakers The Movers and Shakers Meet just one time per month At different locations Just to shake things up!

Please join us Lord of Life women And see why it’s true We welcome all to play our fun game, And share some laughs and a snack or two!

It’s a social event: “Bunco” is the name of the game!

It’s really a good time and this game is easy to learn…

Just shake the dice, chat, and jot down the score, You will likely master this game after just one turn.

If this sounds like just what you need, And second Tuesdays will work for you to play, Then please contact Myra (myra.faust@comcast.net) And we guarantee you will stay!

—Myra Faust

March 2014 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a

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children youth angry hurt family diction out of control struggle

bullying angry hurt addiction out of control afraid broken struggle

broken

e landing the landing

f Life Lutheran Church every Tuesday

a teen who feels trapped

habits, hang-ups, family

addictions or struggles

7401 Country Road 101, Maple Grove,

The Landing is created specifically for teenagers who have experienced hurt, troubled family dynamics, divorce, anger, loneliness, peer pressure, eating disorders, addiction, or depression. This ministry has encouraged and changed the lives of many students with the hope of Christ. For more information, contact Don Clark at 763.245.4064.

There is hope and you are not alone.

ng is a CONFIDENTIAL,

ace providing hope &

Are you a teen who feels trapped

Road 101,

issues, addictions or struggles

Maple Grove,

beyond your control—

MN 55311

Visit lordoflife.

org/thelanding

safe place providing hope &

CYF Fun Run/Walk

; it can be an important

an aftercare program.

very Tuesday from 6:30-

m with dinner available

or call

763.420.5015 x118.

support while learning the

12 steps; it can be an important part of an aftercare program.

meets every Tuesday from 6:308:30 pm with dinner available

Visit lordoflife.

org/thelanding or call 763.420.5015 x118.

It’s the Fourth Annual CYF Fun Run/Walk on Saturday, May 31. All are welcome to participate in a 1-mile or 5k+ run/walk around Rice Lake. Proceeds support our summer trips and camps for children and youth.

Registration opens March 1 at lordoflife.org/funrun.

-6:30 pm. No registration is necessary.

7401 Country

by hurts, habits, hang-ups, family

the landing is a CONFIDENTIAL,

Save the date: May 31

rt while learning the

S

ome students in our community are experiencing hurt and need extra support and care above and beyond what they may receive from traditional youth ministries programming.

at Lord of Life Lutheran Church every Tuesday

MN 55311

ond your control—

The Landing

Questions?

Contact Don

(763.245.4064)

from 5:45-6:30 pm. No registration is necessary.

Questions?

Contact Don

(763.245.4064)

Join us on Sunday nights at Lord of Life for worship, building friendships, and living our faith—all are welcome! Ecclesia worship at 7 pm and Express sr. high youth group at 7:45 pm. Questions? Visit lordoflife.org/ srhighsunday.

a work of love (awol) mission trips

It’s going to be an amazing summer! We’re taking two AWOL mission trips where we’ll work with Habitat for Humanity building houses. It’s a life-changing experience!

AWOL: Marquette, MI June 14-24 AWOL: Philadelphia, PA July 12-23 Travel with a group of sr. high youth from Lord of Life to serve and share God’s love by building homes with Habitat for Humanity. For youth currently in grades 10-12.

More info is at lordoflife.org/awol.

jr. high mission trip

All youth who will finish grades 6-9 by June 2014 are invited to join in for the Rockford, IL (Rockford Urban Ministries) mission trip. We will be working on lowincome housing in the area and helping at the local food shelf to organize and serve food. The dates are June 15-21. Cost is $360 per person with $150 non-refundable deposit due at registration. Register today at lordoflife. org/jhmissiontrip.

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©iStock

sr. high sundays

C3 Sundays on March 9, 16, 23

5-6 pm: Pizza Plus! Family Meal

6-7 pm: C3 Groups

7-7:45 pm: Ecclesia Worship

7:45-8:45 pm: Explore C3 Wednesdays on March 12, 19, 26

4:30-5:30 pm: C3 Groups

5:30-6:30 pm: Pizza Plus! Family Meal

6:30-7:30 pm: C3 Groups and L5 C3 Leaders’ Huddle on Wednesday, March 19

5:30 pm (includes dinner) We will gather all the leaders together for training and conversations about how things are going. It is a great night for us all to touch base, share stories, get to know each other, support and be supported, and learn a few things, too. We hope to see you all there!

C3 Saturday Retreat on March 22 7th and 8th graders! Need a retreat? This is your time!

During the day we will spend time in worship, small group Bible study, playing games, building relationships, doing service work, and having fun the whole time. Lunch and dinner are provided. We finish off the night at 7 pm.

Register online at lordoflife.org/c3retreats.

March 2014 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a

children youth family

Lenten Service Project

E

LCA World Hunger provides relief, helps people help themselves, advocates, and educates. During Lent, Church School children are collecting money for the ELCA World Hunger Appeal. Families may place special banks on their dining tables to collect change each time they share a meal. The banks are returned to their Church School classes or to the CYF office any time after Easter (April 20). Your gifts provide food, clean water, seeds, tools, trees, animals, education, life, and hope. Thank you!

Come Lord Jesus, be our guest, and let these gifts to us be blessed.

Blessed be God, who is our bread; may all the world be clothed and fed.

Amen.

First Communion for 5th graders

A

t Lord of Life, First Communion instruction is given to 5th graders and their parents. This year’s instruction takes place on Saturday, April 12, 9-11:30 am and Monday, April 14, 6-8:30 pm. Watch the mail for a letter that will require your response as to which session you will be attending. Students will receive Holy Communion on Saturday or Sunday (April 26/27) at the service they usually attend. For more information, visit lordoflife.org/firstcommunion.

Spend faith-filled time with your family. Meet other Lord of Life families. Learn, talk, laugh, and share a meal.

Visit the Growing Families of Faith events schedule at lordoflife.org/GFF.

How will You Spend your Summer?

visit lordoflife.org/summer March 2014 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a

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children youth family

March Bible Verse is Mark 10:14: “Jesus said, ‘Let the little children come to me.’ ”

March Is Here!

by Angie Schiebel, Director of Karing Kingdom Preschool

W

e begin the month of March Under the Big Top as we introduce the letter C for Circus. Also early in the month is Lutheran School Week, March 2-8, when our theme for the week is To Tell The Story. Next we’ll travel to the moon and back as we explore the letter A for Astronomy. The letter L will hopefully give us some extra good luck as we search for the ever elusive leprechauns and their pot of gold. Will March be a lion or a lamb? We can’t wait to find out! We end our month with Y is for Yarn as we spin a tale or two about this fun fiber!

March Book Pick

Bucket Filling from A to Z

by Carol McCloud & Caryn Butzke Bucket filling is the choice to make others happy—and there are so many ways to do it!

Please note that we are closed for spring break during March 31-April 4.

Karing Kingdom Preschool continues to take registration for the 2014-15 school year. For more information about Karing Kingdom Preschool, please call 763.420.5015 x127 or email us at kingdom@lordoflife.org.

Painting Christma with s Trees

Pajama Party

An Indoor January Picnic!

Results Are In!

R

esults are in and 774 cans of soup were donated this year for the Souper Bowl of Caring. Last year we collected 577. Our goal was 600 so let’s say that’s a touchdown! Soup and other non-perishable foods are always accepted for CROSS. They may be dropped off in the Service Center at any time. Thanks to the After School Program kids who packaged all the soup cans for transporting.

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karing kingdom preschool Angie Schiebel, Director, x127, kingdom@ lordoflife.org Teachers: Jennifer Ellingson, Maureen Murphy Hanson, and Carly Tappe

March 2014 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a

contact info WEB lordoflife.org PHONE 763.420.5015 FAX 763.420.7286 ADDRESS 7401 County Road 101, Maple Grove, MN 55311-4313 V isit lordoflife.org/lolstaff for a full staff listing with photos.

PRAYER NETWORK prayernetwork@lordoflife.org FACEBOOK facebook.com/lordoflifelutheran

Thumbs up for Social Media

H

ave you found Lord of Life on Facebook? Our active social media community also includes Instagram and YouTube. All told, we interact with nearly 2,000 followers on a regular basis.

Join nearly 1,600 friends on the Lord of Life Facebook page for daily posts related to worship, missions, youth programming and more. Be sure to check our news feed for Throwback Thursday posts from years gone by.

On YouTube, you can view past sermons and other programming. For instance, there’s a video of the Churchwide Assessment Tool (CAT) presentation from the congregational meeting in January in case you missed it.

On Instagram, you will find photos depicting the various facets of our ministry. You can post photos of your hands doing God’s work using #lolgodworkourhands.

Follow Lord of Life:

Facebook.com/lordoflifelutheran Instagram.com/lordoflife Youtube.com/lordoflifeluth

Lord of Life presented a $12,000 check to Feed My Starving Children in January. This ministry makes a huge impact all over the world, thanks to the many contributions of time and money from our members. Thank you!

March 2014 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a

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Nonprofit US Postage Paid Maple Grove, MN

ADDRESS 7401 COUNTY ROAD 101, MAPLE GROVE, MN 55311-4313 RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED - TIME SENSITIVE MATERIAL

Permit #14

LifeTIMES is a monthly ministry of Lord of Life Lutheran Church (ELCA) printed

by Wallace Carlson using ecofriendly inks. To receive LifeTIMES in the mail or electronically—call 763.420.5015 or stop in the main church office or email office@lordoflife.org with your name and address. We invite you to share faith stories, Lord of Life ministry events, photos, poetry & artwork. Submissions may be edited. The deadline for the April issue is March 1.

Copyright 2014 Lord of Life Lutheran Church

caught reading lifetimes

One Mission One World: Jamaica at WestHaven Children’s Home with Jeff, Paige, Emere, and Logan Peterson, Denny, LaVie, Kevin, Nona, and Kai Kinvig, Rhonda and Brandon Hofer, and with worker Nazzie and child.

Don Clark has been teaching C3 for 18 years!

Here he is caught reading LifeTIMES with the class of 2013-14.

The Argenta family is caught reading LifeTIMES at the London Eye with Big Ben in the background!

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March 2014 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a