March 2017 LifeTIMES magazine

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

© Lightstock

LifeTIMES

March 2017

This Lent, as we journey toward the cross —see Page 4

office@lordoflife.org

/lordoflife

/lordoflife /lolcyf

/lordoflifeluth

/lordoflifeelca

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

—Lord of Life’s Global Ends Policy

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

TAB LE O F CO N T E N T S Worship & Music / Pastor’s Article.............................................................. Pages 2-3 Lent / Family of Faith.................................................................................... Pages 4-5 Holistic Wellness: Physical / Generosity...................................................... Pages 6-7 Lord of Life Ministries................................................................................ Pages 8-14 Karing Kingdom Preschool............................................................................. Page 15

worship

7401 County Road 101, Maple Grove, MN 55311-4313 phone 763.420.5015 fax 763.420.7286 web lordoflife.org Visit lordoflife.org/staff for a full staff listing with photos. prayernetwork@lordoflife.org

march 1

4/5 8

11/12 15

18/19 22

25/26 29

music

LO R D O F LI FE LU T HE R A N C H UR CH (ELCA)

Ash Wednesday 11 am and 7 pm with Imposition of Ashes Pastor Peter Geisendorfer-Lindgren Wednesday Lenten Worship Pastor Joel Wight Hoogheem Wednesday Lenten Worship Pastor Peter Geisendorfer-Lindgren Wednesday Lenten Worship Pastor Karen Geisendorfer-Lindgren Wednesday Lenten Worship

Saturdays: 5:30 pm - Praise Band and Holy Communion Sundays: 8:30, 9:45 and 11 am - Holy Communion on the first and third Sundays Wednesdays: Ash Wednesday 11 am worship with soup lunch immediately following in Fellowship Hall; 6 pm soup supper precedes all 7 pm Lenten worship. See Page 4 for more information.

Third Wednesday: March 15 - 1 pm, Arbor Lakes Senior Living, and 2:30 pm, Rose Arbor Assisted Living Third Sunday: March 19 - 10 am, Good Samaritan Ambassador in New Hope

Worship and music may be subject to change; visit lordoflife.org/worship for more details.

Thank you to Joyful Noise for voices raised in song during worship. Studies show choral singing boosts positivity, alertness, well-being, and increases self-esteem—plus it’s fun!

Children’s choirs (Alleluia K-2nd grade, Joyful Noise 3rd-8th grade) rehearse 6-7 pm on Thursdays. Invite a friend!

On Friday, March 10, at 7:30 pm—

Worship and Music

From Sorrow to Comfort

2 March 2017

Lord of Life welcomes the Exultate festival choir and orchestra to our sanctuary. Enjoy their performance of the Johannes Brahms Requiem, one of the most beloved choral works of all time, sung in English. Come early to add your voice to the mass choir sing-along. For all ticket prices and more details, visit exultate.org/current-season or call 651.707.0727.

Change of Plans

by Pastor Joel Wight Hoogheem This was never a part of the plan. I don’t just mean serving at Lord of Life. I mean this whole pastor gig. It was never a part of the plan.

Not my plan, at least.

By the time I was in college, I had my plan all figured out: I was going to get a business degree, get a job, and never have to go to school again.

Everything was on track and working out according to my plan, too.

Between my junior and senior years at Luther College, I was able to get a good internship where I could finally do the things I’d been waiting to do.

It was a good summer with great people. Things were going well enough that I was told there would be a job waiting for me after I graduated the next spring. Everything was working out!

Except I had a nagging, empty feeling inside. My plans were coming to fruition, but something was missing. I had no idea what was missing, however.

Then one evening in July, I was at home and, as I was surfing the web, I had a clear feeling that I needed to find the website for Luther Seminary. I used whatever predecessor to Google was available on the AOL dial-up service and as the homepage for the seminary (very slowly) appeared on the computer screen, I knew at that very moment that God was calling me to be a pastor.

My only thought was, “No!” My plan was finally coming together, I was tired of school, and I was ready to make some money. Yet as I prayed about it, that empty feeling was gone and it became clear that the Holy Spirit was speaking through that putzy 56k internet connection. So, I let go of my plans and trusted that I was following God’s call for my life.

I had to give up my plans and reorient my hopes and dreams, but God has been faithful through it all. I met my wife, Karen, at seminary and it’s a great honor to have this unexpected journey bring me to Lord of Life.

And one of the great privileges I have always had as a pastor is hearing about how different people experience God’s call in their lives, too. God doesn’t just call folks to be pastors and religious professionals. God calls teachers, accountants, mechanics, social workers, nurses, salespeople, and on and on. It’s a privilege to be a part of a community that listens for God’s voice and prays for God’s guidance.

I look forward to hearing your story, too, and how God has changed your plans.

Pastor’s Article March 2017 3

This Lent, as we journey toward the cross Lord of Life’s worship theme is Faith in Our Home.

We will experience a reflective half-hour of worship featuring beautiful music and powerful faith testimony. Holden Evening Prayer liturgy will be led by piano and cantor with flute, chimes, or strings.

Faith is the most important aspect of our lives.

Walk with Jesus on his final day.

Therefore, we must practice our faith, similar to an instrument or any sport.

Sit beside him at the last supper.

We do not need to be perfect— but we are all called to practice.

Pray with him in Gethsemane.

Jesus is The Perfect One— Lent in a nutshell.

On March 1, Ash Wednesday worship is 11 am and 7 pm. A soup luncheon follows the morning service and a soup supper precedes the evening service.

On Wednesdays from March 8-April 5, soup suppers in Fellowship Hall begin at 6 pm. Wednesday Lenten worship begins at 7 pm in the sanctuary.

We invite you to worship as we journey toward the cross this Lenten season.

—Pastor Sarah Bunge

Follow him to the cross.

Desert him. Deny him.

Experience the resurrection.

This is from Adam Hamilton’s book, 24 Hours That Changed the World. We will be offering four study sessions a week. There is a book, a dvd produced in the Holy Land, and a 40-day devotional that we will have available for you for $10 that you will need for the class.

Sessions begin the Sunday before Ash Wednesday, February 26, and continue for seven weeks through Holy Week, Tuesday, April 11.

Groups will be Sundays at 8:30 and 9:45 am, Mondays at 7 pm, and Tuesdays at 7 pm. Your attendance can be during whichever time works for your schedule. If your small group would like to do this study, we would be happy to help you.

—Pastor Donna Rohrer

Lent

© Lightstock

4 March 2017

Lord of Life’s

baptisms

of

Family Faith

At Lord of Life, we baptize individuals at any age. The next baptism class will be Sunday, March 12, at 12:15 pm.

No registration is necessary. To schedule a baptism, please call the church office (763.420.5015).

Tina McCarty and family at the death of her grandmother

January 8

Ashtyn John Curtis Emerson

Gordy and Darlene Mickelberg and family at the death of their sister-in-law

January 14

Parker Jean Churlik

Senia Fay Hepola

Sevi Michael Hepola

Marlo and Elaine Miller and family at the death of their son-in-law

January 15

Daniel Lawrence Franklin

Jackson Royal McFarland

Lou Robert McFarland January 22

Annabelle Marie Olson

Griffin Lee Warcken

Megan Petersen and family at the death of her grandmother Jim Ring with Kendell and family at the death of their wife and mother Marilynn Wachter and family at the death of her mother Pam Zinter and family at the death of her mother

welcome to new members

January 29

Asa Dale Harding

Peighton JoAnn Lien

Maverick William Mizner

Benjamin Stanley Moeschl

Maxwell Richard Zaker

Joe & Kelsey Abellera with Dominic and Brooklyn

bereavements

Steve & Janet Krohmer

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

Jody Allen and family at the death of her father and mother

Troy & Sandie Dilla with Peyton and Sydney Ken & Sandy Henk Tom & Katie Jorgensen with Connor Marlon & Janis Leischner Eleanor Mewaldt Mike & Kathy Murphy Bret & Jessica Newton with Caidence and Bailey Cory & Rhonda Stroup with Alexandra Battina

Larry Benedict and family at the death of his sister

Jeremy & Susie Wagner with Bella and Brayden

Tom Hackler and family at the death of his mother

Kris Wenker

Amy Hadley and family at the death of her grandfather

Membership at Lord of Life means you make a commitment to be an active participant in congregational life. The expectation of not only new members but all members—is to worship regularly, grow in faith, serve others, and support the church and its programs financially. For more information, contact Karen Klevar (karenk@lordoflife.org or 763.420.5015 x116) or visit lordoflife.org/membership.

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

Jenny Horton with Alec, Alyssa, Jaimie, and family at the death of their father and grandfather Mary Krogsgaard and family at the death of her mother Dan and Deb Loppnow and family at the death of their nephew

Family of Faith

Alex Armbruster and family at the death of his mother

March 2017 5

This Lord of Life wellness initiative encourages us to balance life so we can live into the fullness of our relationship with God. —Pastoral Intern Kari Lyn Wampler

Holistic Wellness: Nutrition

by Liz Blom March is National Nutrition Month! It’s an annual nutrition education and information campaign focused on making informed food choices with sound eating/physical activity habits.

Put Your Best Fork Forward is this year’s theme reminding each one of us holds the tool to make healthier food choices.

How does this tie into holistic wellness? Perhaps if we focus on the best tool each one of us holds, our choices will come with ease. As believers we are blessed with the power of faith and prayer. We are also blessed with free will, creativity, taste buds, feelings, plants and animals, and many other wonderful offerings of life on earth. I believe we are meant to enjoy all of it, but in moderation. Then Jesus declared, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.” John 6:35 NIV How do we manage temptations in today’s fast-paced society? We turn to our loving Father for guidance and trust in His grace and, at the same time, put our faith into action. Five actions steps for healthier food choices are: 1. Shop with a prayer and a plan. Ask God’s guidance while making a grocery list. Put thought into the foods you purchase, asking how they will fuel you and your family for a healthful daily intake, providing energy to live out God’s purpose.

2. Shop local. Not only does it support the community, but food is fresher, more flavorful with less time to lose nutritional value in transportation and/or sitting on a shelf to ripen or spoil.

3. Circle outer perimeters in a grocery store. That’s where fresh fruit, vegetables, meat, and dairy are found. These foods are often less processed, dense in macronutrients (healthy fiber-filled carbohydrates, proteins, healthy fats), vitamins/minerals, and plant/animal nutrients.

marriage refresher

4. Read labels. Foods with more than one ingredient must have an ingredient list on the label. Ingredients are listed in descending order by weight which is particularly helpful to individuals with food sensitivities, those who avoid pork or shellfish, limit sugars, or prefer vegetarian eating.

Our marriages are the foundation of the life that we build, yet it is often the last thing on our ‘to do’ list. During this workshop, learn new skills for a healthy marriage and a new appreciation for one another.

5. Seek a referral from a trusted medical professional such as a registered dietitian or other persons trained in the science of nutrition. You may also check with a grocer to see if they provide support in this area.

Holistic Wellness

As for holy donuts? It’s likely you’ve had concerns. They are not going anywhere that I’m aware of. My guess is God approves! He knows and delights that food brings us together, creates community, and blesses families with young children who will learn from you how to appreciate the abundance that God provides.

Lord of Life member Liz Blom is an experienced registered dietitian, wellness coach, business owner, and a mom. She and her husband, Brian, have two daughters, Amelia and Lucy. Liz can relate to her clients when it comes to challenges for a healthy balance in a busy life.

Visit lordoflife.org/wellness for class registration and to learn more about this initiative.

6 March 2017

by Pastoral Intern Kari Lyn Wampler 9 am - 2 pm, March 11, $15 couple

parenting class

by Jennifer Tagg 6:30 - 8 pm, March 23 Learn what might be driving a child’s behavior by understanding stages of development. Consider strategies to achieve positive outcomes for connection, discipline, and laying groundwork for future stages. Focus on increasing awareness of self and its impact on interactions with our children.

by Pastor Chick Lane

Thank You for Being Late is the title of a new book

by Thomas Friedman. Friedman is a columnist for the New York Times, and a native of St. Louis Park, Minnesota.

Some of you know me well enough to know I will probably never say, Thank you for being late. I hate it when I am late. I am less patient than I would like to be when someone else makes me wait because they are late.

The point of Friedman’s title is that we are all flying through life at a faster and faster pace. He claims technological advances will mean life will be even faster and more hectic in the future. When someone is late, and we have nothing to do but sit and wait, those few minutes may provide us with the only chance all day to sit still, think, and reflect on what is really important in life. That, he says, is worth a thank you.

As I read his words, I thought about Lent, the approaching season of the church year inviting each of us to sit still, think, and reflect on what is really important in life. Lent is the six weeks before Easter. This year, Lent begins on March 1. Traditionally, Lent is a time for Christians to examine their state of life and faith.

I wonder—in a world that seems to go faster and faster each year—can we really find a few minutes in this special season to slow down, to wait, to sit still, think, and reflect. I invite you to carve out just a little space in your life to think about how you are using your time, your talents, and your treasure to serve your God, yourself, and your neighbor.

If someone is late, use the waiting time to do this. If no one makes you wait, find the time anyway. It will be worth a thank you.

“ ... those few

minutes may

“

Thank You for Being Late

provide us with

the only chance all day to sit still, think,

and reflect on what is really important ...

Budget Year-to-date January 2017 Actual

Total member contributions All other Total receipts

Budget

Difference

$353,244

$321,475

$31,769

$50,654

$50,335

$319

$403,898

$371,810

$32,088

Lord of Life Weekly Giving — January 2017 $160,000 $140,000 $120,000 $100,000 $80,000 $60,000 $40,000 $20,000 $0

1/1 1/8 1/15 1/22 1/29

Actual Budget

$153,148 $60,279 $74,362 $74,362

$80,649 $55,972 $53,851 = $403,898 $74,362 $74,362 $74,362 = $371,810

Generosity

March 2017 7

One Mission One World: Dominican Republic (DR)—

Do Justice, Love Kindness, Walk Humbly

by Pastor Dave McCarty

In 2008 there was an empty plot of land carved out of a remote hillside. Local leaders in the DR received a vision from God for a project; they approached Lord of Life and other churches in the US and the Netherlands to partner with them.

Today, thanks to God and many volunteers from the DR and Minnesota as well as around the world, the project’s vision came to completion as a multi-purpose community center and clinic serving 17 villages. Through the years, Lord of Life missionaries helped build the community center and many homes; they have shared the gospel in villagers’ homes, schools, and churches.

Micah 6:8 was the DR mission team’s theme. They asked God what to do in response to the grace and love He gave us.

God answered, He has told you, O mortal, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God. Lord of Life has been a vital partner providing resources for dental and medical care in a region that had none before. In January a dental team, including Monica Alley, Dan Martin, and Tyler Martin, served at the local clinic providing much needed dental care. Another dental team, with Pat Bolin, served in the clinic from late February to early March.

And yet another team of Lord of Life volunteers is preparing to serve in the DR this coming fall (October 21-28). They will worship and work alongside the local church and community through Kids Club (VBS) and constructing new homes.

Everyone involved with this ministry knows there are many ways to serve; your support and prayers have been vital to the lives that have been changed. Are you being called to the DR? Come join us to “do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with your God.”

Lord of Life Ministries

If you are being called to service in the DR, contact Pastor Dave (davem@lordoflife.org) or Kirk Hoover (khoover@gatewayla.com). You are invited to read daily reports from the DR mission team and learn more about One Mission One World: Dominican Republic by visiting lordoflife.org/dr.

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March 2017

Empowers You to Overcome

by Missy Benson What if I lose my job? What if I get in an accident? What if I fail the test? What if I never succeed? What if I get sick? What if my car breaks down? What if I end up alone?

My name is Missy, and I struggle with anxiety and panic attacks. One of the toughest challenges of my overall mental health journey hasn’t been the ‘what if ’ questions—it was feeling alone, as if I was the only person in the world who felt that way. Feeling alienated or isolated in whatever hurt, hang up, or habit you are facing may make you feel like no one understands. Yet Jesus understands. He knows pain, heartache, anger, sorrow, confusion, loneliness, and any helplessness or hopelessness you may feel. He wants you to know how much He loves you. He wants you to know you are not alone.

When you come to Celebrate Recovery, there will be a safe and confidential environment with support, fellowship, worship, a lesson or testimony, and the time to meet with a kind group of people going through similar trials. Above all, you’ll experience a 12-step, Christ-centered program that empowers you to overcome whatever you may be going through.

Attending Celebrate Recovery has turned around my ‘what if ’ questions into: •

What if I can forgive?

•

What if I am filled with hope?

•

What if I can learn to let go of the past?

•

What if the promises of God are actually for me?

•

What if I can have the life that Christ intended for me to have?

I encourage you to come to Celebrate Recovery—it can be life changing!

Celebrate Recovery meets every Tuesday evening, at 5:30 pm for an optional freewill offering dinner, with programming beginning at 6:30 pm. For more information, visit lordoflife.org/celebraterecovery or contact Michelle Welinksi (michellew@lordoflife.org) if questions. You are not alone.

Hope Lodge Cookbook

by Paula Thomas On February 28, Lord of Life completed six years of serving every other Monday dinners at the American Cancer Society’s Hope Lodge. So many have contributed to this successful ministry. Many volunteers have shared that they get more out of being there than they feel they offer. I know from speaking to guests and caregivers that they appreciate every meal and conversation. Connections made are often long-lasting.

After driving across the city six and a half weeks for my own radiation treatments, I have a new appreciation for Hope Lodge. It must be such a relief to stay at a convenient location for free and receive daily support from others who are in treatment.

March 2017

Lord of Life Ministries

Some of the many recipes we have served at Hope Lodge have been assembled in a cookbook. It is available for purchase ($10) at Reflections of Faith, with all proceeds benefitting Hope Lodge. This is a gift in memory of my parents, Ted and Jan Wegner, who both died from cancer weeks apart in 2002. My hope is that this cookbook will be an ongoing fundraiser for this wonderful place. Please consider stopping at the gift shop to pick up a copy. Thank you!

9

Word for Women

Heaven gets talked about all the time, but what does the Bible actually say about it? What does eternal life look like? When we say we believe in the “resurrection of the body,” what does that mean? Where do we find the Kingdom of God? Join Pastor Joel Wight Hoogheem on a journey into the biblical foundations and meanings of all these important realities. Bring an open heart and mind, as Scripture will challenge many of our popular preconceptions about heaven.

Spoiler alert: it’s better and more exciting than we often imagine!

Word for Women meets Wednesdays, 9:30-11 am, in Fellowship Hall. Pastor Joel’s message will be on March 8, 15, 29, and April 5. A special worship time will be led by Pastors Karen and Karen Sue on March 22.

Faith, Fellowship, Football

by Tom Wilson Lord of Life men celebrated the end of their first fantasy football season/book study of The Ultimate Scoring Drive. Matt Eich was nice enough to purchase three Minnesota Viking footballs and had them signed by the participants. They were presented to (left to right in photo) Commissioner Chris Tollefson, Pastor Dave McCarty, and author Dave Wall for all their work in coordinating this effort. It was a very successful and fulfilling season. Additionally, the ‘winners’ of the three leagues donated ‘winnings’ to Clifton Boys’ Home, AWOL high school mission trips, and Hope Lodge.

men’s small groups There are several men’s small groups meeting on Monday nights and Tuesday and Friday mornings for learning and fellowship. You are encouraged to visit lordoflife.org/realmen for details.

Older Wiser Lutherans march events

save the date

March 15: Worship at Arbor Lakes at 1 pm and/or Rose Arbor Assisted Living at 2:30 pm.

April 20: Spend a day at the Minnesota Zoo viewing all their newborn animals and so much more. Leave church at 8 am and return by 3 pm. Cost is $20 plus lunch on your own at the zoo.

Lord of Life Ministries

March 2: ‘Music to Chase Winter Away’ with Joanne Bolles. Faith, Food, & Fellowship begins at noon in Fellowship Hall; freewill donation lunch.

10

March 16: Come! Join in as we look forward to spring planting with “Joe’s Basket Days” at 101 Market. Bring a pot 12" or larger for planting or you can buy one at 101 Market.

They will grow your plants; you pick them up in May. Leave church at 9:30 am, return at 2:30 pm. Cost is $3. Lunch at Rockwood’s Gril or on your own.

March 24: LifeTIMES labeling in Fellowship Hall at 9:30 am. Coffee’s always on!

March 2017

April 6: “Journey to Easter - Faith in the Home” with guest Lynn Leisen! Faith, Food, and Fellowship begins at noon with a freewill donation lunch.

Cancellations due to weather will be on the authority of the event leader and made at least 24 hours in advance when possible; calls will be made to participants. Questions? Contact Karen Nelson (763.420.5015 x138 or karenn@lordoflife.org), check the bulletin board, or visit lordoflife.org/owls.

LifeGARDEN plot registrations are now open—

Aerial photo courtesy of Scott Welinski

Calling All Green Thumbs

by Bob Zappa Spring is just around the corner—time to start thinking about gardening! LifeGARDEN, Lord of Life’s community garden, is entering its sixth year—last year we planted an apple orchard (trees not yet planted at far right in photo).

LifeGARDEN has produced over 80,000 pounds of freshfrom-the-garden vegetables for local food shelves. All gardeners are required to help with the mission portion of the garden. We are now accepting registrations for the 2017 growing season; a $30 fee covers operating costs.

Contact me (garden@lordoflife.org) if you have questions.

Visit lordoflife.org/lifegarden or stop in the church office to complete an application.

In a Suitcase

As shared in February, a variety of items are needed and appreciated for One Mission One World: Jamaica.

•

Large, rolling suitcases are needed; they will not be returned

•

Protein drinks

•

Hygiene items

Acts 29 Mission Trip

This year’s Acts 29 mission trip is heading back to Tuscaloosa, Alabama; it’s our fourth mission trip there. We will work with Habitat for Humanity building or rebuilding homes July 22-29.

There will be more information and a meeting in April; watch LifeTIMES and the worship bulletin insert for updates.

For more information, contact Merle and Michelle Waldron at 763.420.5388 or mmwaldron@comcast.net.

Check the display near the main church office for a detailed list of items or visit lordoflife.org/jamaica.

Thank you for your support! —Karen Nelson

Christians Reaching Out in Social Service (CROSS)—

CROSS Needs for Easter

On Saturday, March 18, 9-11 am, all men are invited to Bunker Indoor Golf Center on Highway 7 in Minnetonka. Afterwards, we’ll enjoy lunch and fellowship at Famous Dave’s BBQ. Cost is $25.

For more information about Bunker Indoor Golf Center, visit bunkerindoor.com or call 952.936.9595. To register for this golf event, visit lordoflife.org/mengolf before March 13, please.

Lord of Life Ministries

Easter is April 16; CROSS will again be providing Easter items for children in need. They are collecting baskets, candy, Easter story books, and other Easter basket-type items (i.e. crayons, small stuffed animals, plastic eggs, etc.). CROSS expects to provide baskets to approximately 700 children.

Thank you for bringing all donations to the Service Center

by March 10.

Men’s Winter Golf

For more information, visit lordoflife. org/cross.

March 2017

11

Transformed

by Jennifer Bourbonais I grew up as a Lord of Life kid. I did what everyone else did: church school, confirmation, Summer Stretch service, even worked in the nursery. In high school, I went on AWOL mission trips and went to New Orleans for the 2010 ELCA Youth Gathering.

All of those things kept me close in my relationship with the Lord. After graduation from high school and over the past seven years though, my relationship with God had major ups and downs. These ups and downs in my college years stemmed from poor decisions and unhealthy relationships. After I finished college three years ago, I received an offer for a teaching and coaching position at Maple Grove Senior High. Today that is where I teach, but I am not the same person I was when I accepted the job.

Most days I was sad. I was hurt by God. Hurt that God would take away my three amazing grandparents so quickly. Hurt that my dog, Benny, was taken away. And hurt that God wouldn’t give me answers. I ran into a brick wall last spring—then my eyes were opened. I was done blaming God for the pain because I realized God was putting all of this work into His relationship with me and I refused to give back, pray, or listen to the words and ‘God winks’ He was giving me. Romans 12:2 says, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—His good, pleasing, and perfect will.”

I was done conforming to the expectations of our world. So, this last September after lots of coffee dates with Pastor Karen Sue, I decided to rededicate my life to Christ. I wanted to publicly affirm my faith again (I was baptized as an infant) so that everyone knew the commitment I was ready to make. I was ready to love and be loved by God. I was ready to live each day, all day as a Christian.

I was ready to put all of my faith back in God. I was ready to be a committed Fellowship of Christian Athletes coach. Today I am imperfect. But … today I have healthy relationships. Today I am happy. Today I am forgiven.

Lord of Life Ministries

Today I am Jennifer Anne Bourbonais, again transformed as a grateful child of God, loved beyond measure.

12 March 2017

A special thank you to Jennifer Bourbonais, daughter of Jeff & Nancy and sister of Cora, for sharing this beautiful and inspirational testimony of faith.

AWOL 2016

march schedule

C is Christ, Community, and Confirmation for middle school/high school 3

Sundays: March 5, 12, 19 5-6 pm: C3 groups 5:15-6:30 pm: Family meal 6-7 pm: C3 groups 7-8 pm Explore middle school youth

Express high school youth Wednesdays: March 8, 15, 22 4:30-5:30 pm: C3 groups 5:30-6:30 pm: Family meal 6:30-7:30 pm: C3 groups

Summer Youth MissionTrips—

March forth, learn about faith in C3—

High School: A Work of Love (AWOL) to Marquette, MI, June 17-27 or Hendersonville, NC, July 15-25 For youth completed grades 9-12, travel to serve with Habitat for Humanity, make friends, encounter God, and have fun growing yourself and your faith. Details and registration at lordoflife.org/awol.

This Saturday retreat is for 7th/8th graders who did not attend the fall overnight retreat and 9th graders who need to make up a retreat from a previous year.

The retreat theme is What Does This Mean with Bible study, team building, learning, and fun as we explore ‘story’ (my story, our story, God’s story).

Make a Difference This Summer

Middle School: Chicago, IL, July 23-28 For youth currently in grades 6-8, the middle school mission trip includes transportation, program costs, !

Fulenlroute). ipmeals lodging, and meals (except some Cost is n Tr io s is M $360 through March 15; $380 after March 15 (includes a $150 non-refundable deposit). Space is limited.

March 4 Retreat

Lunch and snacks will be provided. Students should bring a Bible. Cell phones should be left at home or can be put aside upon arrival. We will be ‘unplugged’ during this time.

Cost is $15. Check-in opens at 8:15 am with programming from 8:30 am-2:30 pm. Register at lordoflife.org/c3retreats.

For summer vacation Bible school, youth camps, and activities—visit lordoflife.org/summer!

Summer Stretch

A weekly program where middle school youth (completed grades 6-8) experience service, recreation, Bible study, and worship. Gather on Wednesdays or Thursdays throughout the summer (June 14/15, 21/22, 28/29; July 5/6, 19/20, 26/27; August 3 - Valleyfair).

Register at lordoflife.org/summerstretch!

... now hiring!

Lord of Life Ministries

Lord of Life is hiring staff for vacation Bible school, Summer Stretch, and summer interns for early childhood, elementary, and middle school positions. Learn more at lordoflife.org/summerpdstaff.

March 2017 13

Care Packages ... for college students

After School Program children will be decorating and filling packages with treats and a note of support at the end of April.

Help by giving donations of small snacks/treats such as microwave popcorn, gum, candy, granola bars, snacks and/or tea.

Drop off donations in the Service Center. Register a college student for a care package at lordoflife.org/carepackages.

... for those serving in military Military Family Support Ministry sends care packages for any member of the church or their children/grandchildren who are currently deployed in combat. Please provide their name, APO address, and include a letter from you to the soldier. Several packages are ready now to send to loved ones to show our support. For more information about this ministry, please visit lordoflife.org/ militaryfamilysupport.

Applications received April 1-June 1 - Visit lordoflife.org/militaryfamilysupport

Church School March 4/5: Hunger Banks

March 11/12: Foot Washing March 18/19: Peter’s Denial of Jesus March 25/26: Pilate and Jesus

507!

Souper Bowl of Caring results are in— thank you for your contributions!

Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA)—

ELCA World Hunger For all 5th graders—

First Communion Instruction At Lord of Life, first communion instruction is given to 5th graders and their caring adults. This year’s instruction is: Saturday, March 18, 9 - 11:30 am Monday, April 17, 6 - 8:30 pm

Lord of Life Ministries

Wednesday, April 19, 6 - 8:30 pm You should have already received a letter that requires your response as to which session you will attend (6th-9th grade students who have not received instruction are also invited to attend with their caring adults). Students receive holy communion Saturday or Sunday, April 22/23, at the worship service they usually attend.

For more information and to sign up for your session, visit lordoflife.org/firstcommunion.

14 March 2017

God provides for our daily bread—the earth can produce enough to feed everyone—yet millions still go hungry. ELCA World Hunger responds to global hunger and poverty by addressing root causes. Through a comprehensive program of relief, development, education, and advocacy, people are connected to the resources they need to lift themselves out of poverty.

Between 70-75% of ELCA World Hunger funds are spent internationally; 20-25% are spent domestically.

Please continue to fill your hunger coin bank during this season of Lent. Thanks to you and the ministry of ELCA World Hunger, families and communities who once knew hunger now give thanks for daily bread.

Return your ELCA Hunger Bank to Lord of Life any time in April.

March Bible Verse: Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God. Matthew 5:9

Happy March!

by Karing Kingdom Director Angie Scheibel

You Are (Not) Small

by Anna Kang This Geisel award-winning book is about two creatures who cannot agree—until something surprisingly sets them straight.

For more information about Karing Kingdom Preschool, contact us at kingdom@ lordoflife.org or call 763.420.5015 x127.

Will March come in like a lion and go out like a lamb? No matter what the weather, it’s always sunny at Karing Kingdom Preschool! We begin with Ash Wednesday, the beginning of Lent and continuing with the letter J for Jesus. The first full week of March is the letter L for Lent and Lutheran Schools Week. Lutheran Schools Week is March 5-11 with Love Beyond Measure as this year’s theme. Karing Kingdom submitted this theme for the 2016-17 Evangelical Lutheran Education Association (ELEA) Devotional; it was selected as the signature title for this year’s Lutheran Schools Week. We will have lots of wild and zany fun with Hat Day, Wacky Hair Day and Backwards Day during this fun week!

Next is the letter I for Irish as we celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. S is for spring concludes the month—celebrating all things green!

Class/group pictures will be taken March 21 and 22.

Spring break is March 27-31.

Lord of Life Ministries March 2017 15

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

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

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

Submissions may be edited. Deadline for the April issue is March 1. Copyright © 2017 Lord of Life Lutheran Church

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

ash wednesday march 1 See Page 4

caught reading lifetimes God’s Work.

Our Hands.

Preparing year-end statements for mailing are (left to right) Al Albrecht, Lenora Little, Lisa McCarty, Sandie Saar, and Dan Little.

16 March 2017

After touring the Museum of Russian Art (left to right) Susan Skallerud, Denny & Sharon Hoefs, and John Schulte were at Patrick’s Restaurant in Bachmans— see Page 10 and visit lordoflife.org/owls for more about the OWLs.

Caught reading LifeTIMES after an ELCA Minneapolis Area Synod event at Lord of Life are (left to right) Assistant to the Bishop and Pastor John Hulden, Bishop Ann Svennungsen, Communications & Events Coordinator Jeni Huff, and Director of Communications & Stewardship Bob Hulteen—sharing his talents by reading upside down!