May 2014 LifeTIMES by Lord of Life Lutheran Church

LifeTIMES

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

May 2014

What’s Your Favorite Place on Earth? by Alice Woodard, Director of Worship and LifeGARDEN

ast summer, a friend told me that her husband’s favorite place on earth is the deck of their cabin on a lake in northern Minnesota. While sitting there he can relax, watch the sun set, listen to loons, smell the piney woods, feel the cool breeze through the trees, and chat with family and friends. It is calm and peaceful. He feels connected to his parents and his childhood, as this cabin has been in his family for many years and he has spent many summers there. Wondering about favorite places, I conducted an informal poll among my colleagues (aka Lord of Life staff), asking them the question, “What is your favorite place on earth, and why?” Their answers varied from home to cabin to boat to camp to a certain football field in a state to the east of Minnesota. Many mentioned lakes and forests, and several said it didn’t really matter where they were as long as they were with people (or memories of people) they loved.

Like most folks, I’m happiest wherever I am if I’m with my family, who now range in age from 3 months to 93 years. But if I had to choose the place alone, it would definitely be within the gates of LifeGARDEN, the community garden at the northeast corner of Lord of Life’s property. Stepping into the garden, there is an immediate sense of tranquility and order. The large fields are laid out in rows and sections, with a dozen crops growing and producing abundantly. The smaller plots are arranged in grids and each one is as different from the next as the gardeners themselves. There is usually some wildlife about, some of it more welcome than others. Each year a killdeer has built a nest somewhere in the garden and gardeners mark it off and work around it until the babies have left the nest. And the smell—ah, the smell—of garden dirt, herbs, cutting flowers, even tomato plants! The garden is a wonderful place to be alone, to put in an hour’s work, to stroll around and observe how the crops are doing, or just to lounge and enjoy God’s presence in a natural setting. But it is also the place to go to meet hard-working, honest, friendly gardeners who share horticultural wisdom as well as everyday cares. Many new friendships have begun there, and much spiritual, as well as agricultural, growth has taken place. And it’s been said that you don’t have a garden just for yourself; you have it to share. So I’d like to invite you to step into the garden anytime this summer to experience my favorite place on earth. You might even find God there, as George Bernard Shaw once said, “The best place to seek God is in a garden. You can dig for Him there.” Maple Grove Magazine chose our LifeGARDEN as the ‘Best Place to Commune with Nature’ in its ‘Best of Maple Grove’ issue. More details on Page 7 and at lordoflife.org/lifegarden. May 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

spirit 2-5

generosity 6

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 Mondays at 7 pm during the months of June, July, and August Healing service on Monday, May 19, from 6:30-7:30 pm in Lord of Life’s Prayer Chapel Third Wednesday worship services May 21: 12:45 pm at Arbor Lakes and 2:30 pm at Rose Arbor Assisted Living in Maple Grove Third Sunday worship at 9:30 am on May 18 at Ambassador - Good Samaritan Society in New Hope May 3/4 Preaching: Pastor David Lippitt Special Music Saturday: Praise Band Sunday: Joyful Noise, Canticle Choir

adult children youth family (cyf) 7-9 10-14 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

May 10/11 Preaching: Pastor Peter Geisendorfer-Lindgren Special Music: Saturday: Praise Band Sunday: Bel Canto (all services), Canticle Choir (8:30 and 9:45 am), Soloist to be announced (11 am) May 17/18 Preaching: Pastor Dave McCarty Saturday: Praise Band Sunday: New Life Ensemble May 24/25 Preaching: Pastor Karen Geisendorfer-Lindgren Special Music Saturday: Praise Band Sunday: Deric Craig May 31/June 1/2 Preaching: Pastor David Lippitt Special Music Saturday: Praise Band Sunday: Brava! Women’s Chorus Monday: to be announced

Pastors and Celebrate Recovery folks shared hurts, habits, hang-ups as well as victories in Christ during worship on April 5/6. For a video of Pastor Karen Sue’s sermon, visit lordoflife.org/sermons. See Page 5 for more about Celebrate Recovery.

Please note worship and music schedules may be subject to change.

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

spirit

Four or Fore by Pastor Dave McCarty

s you read this month’s LifeTIMES, I’m confident the snow is gone and the ice is off the lakes. Maybe the flowers are even blooming! I think it’s fair to say that everyone is looking forward to being able to look backward at this past winter as a memory to share with our children and grandchildren, I remember when…

We survived! And our minds are now on yard work, gardening, the cabin, vacations, family reunions, grilling burgers and brats, sunscreen and boating. But for me, I’m thinking GOLF and golf lessons! This is the year my drives are going to be straighter, and I’m going to learn how to get out of a sand trap! I know it won’t be easy, and I’ve already made my appointment with a professional golf instructor. I’m prepared to do what it takes—lessons, practice, more lessons and more practice, and maybe even new equipment (Father’s Day hint). My golf game has never been very impressive. As a result I’ve pretty much had the same set of skills for decades, and my scorecard really hasn’t changed much. My foursome tends to hear me say fore a lot more than four in a given round. As I think about what I’m prepared to do to improve my golf game, I can’t help but wonder what would happen if we were as disciplined and intentional about improving our faith game. Growing in our faith is a lot like my golf game; chances are nothing is going to change unless we take some lessons, practice, take some more lessons and practice some more. New and improved equipment may be in order also if you’re still trying to read that King James Bible we received in confirmation 30 years ago (Mother’s Day or Father’s Day hint?). Think about it…maybe adding a Bible study to the list of summer activities is a way to straighten out our game with a few more fours and a few less fores in our daily life.

women’s golf For 8 years, Lord of Life women have been golfing on Wednesday afternoons. You are invited to join in! For details, visit lordoflife. org and search social opportunities.Questions? Call Jean at 763.557.8638.

Celebration of Pastor David’s Ministry

astor David announced his retirement from parish ministry in the December 2013 pastor’s article; and that retirement date is drawing nigh! His last day as Lord of Life’s pastor of congregational care is officially scheduled for June 1. Special recognition of Pastor David’s ministry is planned during all worship services the weekend of Saturday, May 31, and Sunday/ Monday, June 1/2.

Pastor David and family on the day of his ordination in the American Lutheran Church.

All are welcome to celebrate, reminisce, and offer best wishes to Pastor David and his wife, Linda, in their retirement years ahead.

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

spirit

Lord of Life Lives Christ Together baptisms

bereavements

welcome new members

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

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

Paul & Jane Brunelle

March 2 Paige Cole Kaiser

Lucy Chisato-Rodvik and family at the death of her brother

March 9 Maria Robyn Chauvin Mason Ray Risbrudt Max Ryan Risbrudt

Patty Davidson and family at the death of her uncle

Steve & Lia Hall with Nick, Jacob, and Christopher

Chuck & Gwen Denninger and family at the death of their brother-in-law

Dennis & Sharon Hoefs

March 15 Paige Rosalie Dreifke

Judy Kindseth and family at the death of her mother

March 16 Henry Jan Fedie Lewis Richard Fedie

Tim Klevar and family at the death of his mother

March 22 Nora June Weiland March 23 Finn Morse Carrithers Adriana Belle Griffin Liam James Olsen Whitney Jane Zylla March 29 Gavin Lee Chelte March 30 Alexa Jane Peterson Wyatt Patrick Sweeney

Sherry Benedict and family at the death of her grandfather

Dale & Kay Carlson Pete & Beth Corning with Sammie and Mitchell Nick & Shelley Ebersviller with Eleanor

Matt & Kristi Klee with Ryland and Annalise Paul & Janet Kukla Deane & Jeannine Rusinko

Vicki Krouse and family at the death of her mother

Chad & Sharmain Tesmer with Samantha and Ryanne

Terry Leach at the death of his mother

Mike & Sarah Waataja

Sherry Marsh and family at the death of her grandmother

Ethan & Tamra Yale with Michael and Sophia

Val Miller and family at the death of her cousin

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

Jenny Peterson and family at the death of her grandmother Jerry Schmitz and family at the death of his mother Jennifer Schock at the death of her grandfather Huey & Michele Wells and family at the death of their nephew

Lord of Life’s

Reflections of Faith

is a resource filled with a variety of beautiful items which reflect your faith. Stop in for a visit—new items arrive daily.

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

May 11 Mother’s Day Breakfast—

Mother’s Day

he theme is Mothers Around the World. Give thanks for all mothers with a special breakfast in Fellowship Hall on Sunday, May 11. Proceeds from the freewill donation will benefit Military Family Support Ministry, 2B Real Men, and One Mission One World: Tanzania. Please invite all of the women in your life. Volunteers are needed to help prepare or serve the meal. Questions? Contact Jane Bergstrom (janeb@lordoflife.org or 763.420.5015 x142).

A Full Toolbox by Michelle Welinski

here is an old saying, “If you are building a house and a nail breaks, do you stop building, or do you get a new nail?” Each week the participants in Celebrate Recovery are learning that they may have been using the wrong tools, nails, or process to deal with some of life’s issues. Celebrate Recovery teaches us that we don’t have to stop living life. Rather we learn how to replace our poor choices with His healing and life-changing choices. We learn we do not have to give up. God is willing and able and more than ready to give us His tools to not only build the house correctly, but to build it better and stronger than ever. Don’t give up. Don’t be discouraged. God has a full toolbox ready for you. Keep building. Change is possible!

Try out the tools available through Celebrate Recovery every Tuesday beginning with dinner at 5:45 pm and programming at 6:30 pm. Childcare is provided; programming for Celebration Place (children) and the landing (teens) runs at the same time. Questions? Contact Michelle Welinski at michellew@lordoflife.org or 763.420.5015 x118. Visit lordoflife. org/celebraterecovery for more information and resource links.

L5 One-shot Forum

spirit

his year’s last one-shot forum is on Sunday, May 4; identical sessions are offered at 9:45 or 11 am. One-shots are opportunities to hear a new speaker and a new topic on Sunday mornings. No registration is needed. Lord of Life is looking forward to Dr. Thompson’s talk; here are more details:

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. Lord of Life Teams Now Forming—

Relay for Life!

o many times when we hear someone has been touched by cancer, we may feel helpless. So often, the one affected directly by cancer has more than their fair share of sleepless nights. The Relay for Life is one way to put fear into action by walking and physically being present in the night so others will know they are not alone. Relay for Life will be at the Osseo Sr. High football field on Friday, July 18, beginning at 6 pm and ending Saturday morning at 6 am. Each year Lord of Life has many different teams and all of them have room for more walkers, or you can form your own family, neighborhood, or business team. As a team member, you will be asked to officially register ($10 fee and includes a T-shirt) and commit to raising $100. All money supports the American Cancer Society and stays here in Hennepin County. Some of the funds raised support Hope Lodge, a favorite place for many Lord of Life folks to serve. As the event gets closer, there will be volunteer opportunities during various parts of the event. The famous Snack Shack will be staffed by our volunteers. Lord of Life will once again sponsor a dinner to recognize all cancer survivors. If you are a cancer survivor or have a member of your family who is a survivor and you would like to participate in the dinner, please let Michelle Welinksi know. Watch for service opportunity signups! Questions? Please contact Michelle Welinski at michellew@lordoflife.org or 763.420.5015 x118. Ready to register? Visit lordoflife.org/ relayforlife.

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

march 2014 budget year-to-date

generosity

Actual

Total member contributions All other

Difference

$761,028 $755,439 $77,679

Total receipts

Budget

$5,589

$70,315

$7,364

$838,707 $825,754

$12,953

¡Gracias!

n the spirit of Cinco de Mayo, “gracias” for all the gifts and commitments that you have made to the Because of God’s great mercy...2014 Lord of Life capital appeal.

The response has been amazingly faithful, and the result has us well on our way to meeting our goal of eliminating the remaining debt on the new building addition. I am also very excited about how we will be able to expand our outreach ministries that provide direct services to those living on the margins of society. We will be working together in the next 20 months to determine how that money can best be used. While the response has been very heartening to me, there are still many of you whom we have not heard from. We would love to receive a commitment for what we can expect to receive from you over the next 20 months of the appeal. If you are unable to make a commitment, please give as you are able using the envelopes that have been included in your bi-monthly offering envelope packet. A debt reduction appeal is the most difficult of the fundraising efforts that a congregation can make. Paying off debt can be delayed, but it is always at a cost to the future ministries that we will be undertaking. Your offerings further Lord of Life’s efforts to serve this community and to serve Christ throughout the world. You did not have to make these donations, but your belief in God and your belief in this church made you willing to be generous in a remarkable way. I can’t thank you enough for the way in which you have responded to this appeal. You are the best! ¡Gracias! —Pastor Peter

congregational meeting On Sunday, May 4, following 9:45 am worship, there will be a brief congregational meeting held in the sanctuary. The primary purpose is to elect congregation council members along with a recognition of Pastor Peter’s 30 years of ministry at Lord of Life.

Lord of Life Weekly Giving — March 2014 $70,000 $60,000 $50,000 $40,000 $30,000 $20,000 $10,000 $0 3/2 3/9 3/16 3/23 3/30

Actual $64,088 $52,575 $58,926 $59,072 $41,394 $52,677 $52,677 Budget $52,677 $52,677 $52,677

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

adult

Older Wiser Lutherans—

OWLs Events

Thursday, May 1: Surprise - Elvis Is in the House! The fun begins at noon in Fellowship Hall with a freewill donation lunch. Invite all your Elvis fan friends to share in the fun, food, and fellowship. It promises to be a May Day to remember! Plus a Thrivent-sponsored service project to assemble hospice kits to be distributed by Global Health Ministries to developing countries; donations will be needed.

God’s Work. Men’s Hands.

Thursday, May 15: Tour Cambria, the only family-owned, American-made quartz surface company, and the LeSueur Cheese Company, a division of Davisco Food International, plus visit their retail shop. Both tours require an hour of walking and standing; no canes or walkers may be used. The all-inclusive cost of $16 includes lunch at the Pizza Ranch buffet. We leave at 8:30 am and return by 3:30 pm.

silent knights

Wednesday, May 21: Worship at Rose Arbor beginning at 2:30 pm. Friday, May 23: LifeTIMES labeling in Fellowship Hall at 9:30 am. Coffee is always on!

save the dates

work day - saturday, may 3, 9 am-noon

2B REAL Men will clean up the yards of five homes in north Minneapolis, working in partnership with St. Olaf Lutheran Church. Rake, spread mulch, plant flowers, and maybe do some odd jobs to help seniors in need. Please bring rakes, spades, trowels if you have them. No experience needed, just a willingness to work! Registration is at lordoflife.org/WorkDay2BReal. Silent Knights, an informal men’s group, was formed seven years ago with a mission to help people with projects and maintenance around the house. 2B REAL Men would like to revive this group to come in line with the findings of the CAT (Church Assessment Tool) helping those on the margins of society broken by life, serving Christ as we serve others. No specific skills are needed. All that is needed is a willingness to share your gifts. Silent Knights participation is not a large time commitment; it will function on an as-needed, time available basis on evenings or weekends. Please contact Blake Toms (BLToms@comcast.net) if you are interested in being a part of this men’s group.

Thursday, June 19: Join us for a self-directed tour of historic Fort Snelling with guides in period costumes. Learn about Fort Snelling’s history from before the Civil War through World War II, fur trade, slavery in MN, US-Dakota War of 1862 and more. Leave at 9:30 am and return by 3 pm. The allinclusive cost of $25 includes a lunch buffet at Q-cumbers. Thursday, July 17: Cruise on the ‘Spirt of the Water’ - We will depart from Treasure Island Casino for a leisurely cruise on the Mississippi River. While on board we will enjoy the Little Italy Buffet. Leave at 10 am and return at 4:30 pm. Cost is $40 including lunch. See the bulletin board for more details on these events. For more information, stories, and photos of this vibrant seniors’ ministry, please visit lordoflife.org/owls.

As shared on the cover, LifeGARDEN was an Editor’s Pick in Maple Grove’s “Best of” issue. Shown above is Alice Woodard accepting the award on behalf of all Lord of Life’s gardeners. Interested in becoming involved in a community garden? For more information about LifeGARDEN, visit lordoflife.org/lifegarden.

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

Credit: Maple Grove Magazine, maplegrovemag.com

Thursday, June 5: OWLs annual picnic with Barbary Coast Dixieland Band. The fun begins at noon with a freewill donation lunch. You won’t want to miss this toe-tapping summertime fun—invite your friends!

adult

No Special Skills Required by Mary Lynn KenKnight

ou may have thought that in order to serve as a short-term missionary, one must possess some special skill; not true. The groups of missionaries serving in Jamaica during family week headed into the experience with lots of energy and faith that the work needing to get done would get done. We can paint, saw, hammer, change diapers, bathe and feed, but we typically have a vague idea of what we are going to be doing while in Jamaica. Our training before we go to Jamaica concentrates heavily on how to ease into the culture without being culturally insensitive. We are taught to introduce ourselves to those we serve and to ask them how we can help. We are not trained on how to miter a corner, paint a ceiling, mix concrete, build a chicken roost, bathe, feed, and dress a child with disabilities. Being from One Mission One World-Jamaica (1M1W-Jamaica), we are often the ones who are asked questions by other visiting groups. We are frequently given the authority by those who live and work there to take charge and answer these questions. We are given the opportunity and authority to do what it takes to get things done at both Clifton Boys’ Home and West Haven Orphanage. West Haven is an orphanage for children and adults with special needs. In many cases, the residents of West Haven are completely reliant on the staff to take care of their many needs. Much of the work that needs to be done at West Haven requires special training that we do not have. We are sometimes asked to do things that are completely out of our comfort zone. We are asked to do things that we are not prepared to do. However, we somehow find the strength and the will to do whatever is necessary. Our mission experience is similar to the Biblical story of the loaves and fishes. The disciples were asked to share what they had among the throngs of people who followed Jesus. Everyone was so excited and curious to see Jesus that they rushed from their homes completely unprepared for their day. They did not pack bags with snacks and water. They dropped whatever they were doing in hopes to find out who this man, Jesus, was all about. The disciples were not equipped for this situation. Jesus asked them to feed the thousands who were there. The disciples not only did not have enough food, they had no special skills to do what they were asked. Jesus, however, inspired them and gave them the authority to do whatever it took to get the job done. They started with nothing and ended with baskets filled with leftovers after everyone had eaten their fill. Missionaries serving in Jamaica had experiences similar to the disciples. We began our week of service without any special skills. We were inspired to express faith and were given the authority to do whatever was necessary to get the job done. In exchange for our service, we received many spiritual gifts from the people of Jamaica. The residents and staff at Clifton Boys’ Home and West Haven have become our family. We choose to give of ourselves, but we receive so much more. God works through us. He guides us and gives us authority. We have always had an abundance of spiritual gifts (leftovers) when we leave Jamaica; leftovers that we hope to share in our daily lives. 1M1W-Jamaica provides an opportunity for service where no special skills are required. Blessings! For more information about One Mission One World, contact Pastor Dave McCarty or visit lordoflife.org/onemissiononeworld.

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

Spring Cleaning!

Blessing of the Bikes

by Kevin Klitz

ord of Life is again welcoming volunteers to assist in the spring cleaning of our adopted Maple Grove park. This familyfriendly event will be Sunday, May 4, from 1-2 pm at the South Elm Road Neighborhood Park. Please sign up in advance on the hallway bulletin board for this Creation Care Team-sponsored event. You can make a difference!

Lord of Life’s Creation Care Team explores how we can be better stewards of God’s amazing creation. The Creation Care Team meets the third Thursday of each month at 7 pm. If you are interested in being involved with the Creation Care Team, contact Blake Toms at 763.918.4170 or blake. toms@regiscorp.com.

by Pastor David

ull the Hogs and Hondas out of storage and greet the open road. On Sunday, May 25, between the 9:45 and 11 am worship hours, there will be a Blessing of the Bikes service at Lord of Life. Come join cycle enthusiasts as we pray for God’s protective care this season. For more information, contact Pastor David at 763.420.5015 x122 or davidl@lordoflife.org.

Registrations close on May 5—

Men’s Retreat

s announced in April’s LifeTIMES, the annual men’s retreat is a great time to renew friendships or make new ones and to grow in your faith. The dates are May 16–18 at Shores of St. Andrew in Spicer, Minnesota. We are privileged to have Doug Haugen, executive director of Lutheran Men in Mission, as guest presenter. Doug’s presentations and our small group conversations will focus on relationship building. The plan is to golf on Friday at Koronis Hills Golf Club and Saturday at Eagle Creek Golf Course in Wilmar. The cost for non-golfers is $110 and for golfers $150 (the golf fee on Friday is extra). For non-golfers, St. Andrew Lake affords fishing and boating and a nearby state park for hiking, photography, etc. Limited spots are available and registration closes on May 5. To register, visit lordoflife.org/ mensretreat.

For more information, contact Pastor David at 763.420.5015 x122 or davidl@lordoflife.org.

Jennifer and Bruce Baldwin are ready to pack food at Feed My Starving Children (FMSC). For more information and registration, visit lordoflife.org/fmsc. Questions? Call LaVerne Kinvig at 763.478.6799.

adult

blood drive The Memorial Blood Center’s bloodmobile will be at Lord of Life on Saturday, May 31, from 8-11:30 am. Visit lordoflife.org/blooddrive for more details and information on how to register online.

efn Collection dates for the macaroni & cheese drive are April 26-May 11. Let’s build another “cheesy tower” this year! The next packing date at the Emergency Foodshelf Network is Monday, May 5, from 4-6 pm. The next Fare For All at Lord of Life is Thursday, May 8, from 4-6 pm. For more details on any of these events, please visit lordoflife.org/efn.

acts 29 The 2014 Acts 29 mission dates are July 26-August 3. The deadline to sign up for this mission trip is May 18. For more information, contact Merle and Michelle Waldron at 763.420.5388 or mmwaldron@ comcast.net.

Looking forward to Lutheran Social Service (LSS) Family Day at Como Park on July 24—it’s a great family volunteer opportunity! Stay tuned to the June issue with more details on Family Day and other LSS events. Questions? Feel free to contact LSS Ambassadors Sandy or Bob Munson (653.416.4636 or rsmunson@embarqmail.com).

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

children youth family

Graduation Recognition 2011

Lutheran College Fair

Is it time to start looking at colleges? Lord of Life will be hosting a Lutheran College Fair on Monday, May 5. Get information about financial aid and talk to representatives from 15-20 Lutheran colleges from across the country.

Graduation Recognition

Graduating this year? Please join us with your friends and family on Sunday, May 18, at the 11 am service as we congratulate and bless you on this important milestone. Afterward we’ll have a reception with cake in Fellowship Hall.

6:30 pm – Registration begins 6:45 pm – Financial Aid Seminar 7:30-9 pm – College Fair with appetizers More details may be found at lordoflife.org/lutherancolleges.

Sr. High Sunday

Join in at Lord of Life for worship, building friendships, and living our faith—one Sunday is left for this programming year: May 4. 7 pm Ecclesia worship 7:45 pm Express sr. high youth group

AWOL 2013 Bozeman, MT

Breakfast

saturday, may 3

This May 3 breakfast will support both junior high and senior high youth going to camp and mission trips. Tickets are $8. Breakfast will be served 8-10:30 am. Questions? Contact Elizabeth (763.420.5015 x130, elizabethp@lordoflife.org) or Raul (763.420.5015 x121 or raul@lordoflife.org). what are you doing this summer?

Summer Stretch 2013 Global Health Ministry

see pages 12-13 for awol, vbs, camp info, and more!

C3 Sunday, May 4 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 Wednesday, May 7 4:30-5:30 pm: C3 Groups 5:30-6:30 pm: Pizza Plus! Family Meal 6:30-7:30 pm: C3 Groups Explore May 4: Come celebrate the last Explore of the year— we are going to have food, fun, and games!

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

children youth family

Fun Run/Walk! saturday, may 31

It’s Lord of Life’s Fourth Annual Fun Run/Walk! Registration is open for ALL to join in as we walk, run, and volunteer in support of summer trips and camps for children and youth. Event includes a 1-mile or 5k+ run/walk around Rice Lake. Join in! Questions or to register, visit lordoflife.org/funrun.

Summer Stretch

For grades 7-9, Summer Stretch is six weeks of fun and service every Wednesday -or- Thursday during the summer. Each week, we’ll spend the morning doing service projects (and earning C3 service hours) at places such as Feed My Starving Children, Hope Lodge, Source MN, Mary’s Place and others. Earn all your service hours this summer! The afternoons are spent hanging out at Bunker Beach, Twins games, Vertical Endeavors, Brunswick Zone and others. Along with Bible studies and afternoon worship experiences, it’s a fun and faithful summer event. Register at lordoflife.org/summerstretch. Bring a friend!

Attention 6th graders—

Attention 4th-6th graders—

sunday, may 4, 3:30-5 pm

friday, may 16, 5:30-10 pm

What’s Next?

Don’t miss this special event for 6th graders and their parents! You’ll learn about the confirmation program (C3), the junior high summer mission trip, Summer Stretch, summer camp and more. Be the first to receive the 2014 C3 Guide and schedule. 3:30-5 pm: Information and discussion. Sibling care provided. 5-6 pm: Dinner (optional). Siblings welcome. $3/person. Please sign up today at lordoflife.org/GFF.

Club 56 End-of-Year Bash Cardboard maze, epic laser tag, awesome entertainment, crazy hair, bonfire, total May wackiness! This year is gearing up to be the biggest and best End-of-Year Bash ever. Bring a friend or two! Cost is $15, register online at lordoflife.org/club56.

You are invited!

elca world hunger appeal

It’s time to return your Hunger Banks to Lord of Life any time in May. They may be dropped off in your Church School meeting room, the CYF office downstairs, or the main office. Thank you very much. ELCA World Hunger Appeal provides relief, development, education and advocacy. For more information on this and other projects of the ELCA, visit elca.org/goodgifts.

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

summer!

children youth family

june

3 years–Kindergarten: Vacation Bible School (VBS) theme is Weird Animals from June 23-26, 9 am-12 pm. Cost is $40 and includes a music CD. Children learn that God’s love is one-of-a-kind, through music, stories, games, activities, and snacks. Grades 1-4: Adventure Week where each day we explore a different way we can serve God and others. We will learn about women living in Rwanda and Chile, work with the Mississippi Parks Departments, The Sandwich Project, and serve at Feed My Starving Children. Monday-Thursday, June 9-12. Cost is $35; only a few spots remain. Grades 5-6: June 24, Club 56 ventures to Big Thrill Factory with laser tag, mini-golf, trampolines, bumper cars! Cost is $30.

july

Grades 6-9: Summer Stretch, a weekly program where junior high youth (completed grades 6-9) experience service, recreation,

Bible study and worship. Wednesdays (June 11, 18, 25 and July 16, 23, 30) or Thursdays (June 12, 19, 26 and July 17, 24, 31) throughout the summer from 8:45 am-5 pm. Valleyfair day is August 7. Grades 6-9: Jr. High Mission Trip to Rockford, IL, June 15-21. Partner with Rockford Urban Ministries to work on lowincome housing in the Rockford, IL area and help at a local food shelf. More info and registration at lordoflife.org/jhmissiontrip. Grades 7-12: Jr. & Sr. High Summer Night on June 9, 7-9 pm. Come hang out at church for a bonfire, music, games, and fun with friends! Grades 10-12: AWOL (A Work of Love) mission trip to Marquette, MI, June 14-24. Sr. high youth (completed grades 10-12) will travel to Marquette to work with Habitat for Humanity building homes for low-income families. This trip is full!

3 years–Kindergarten: VBS theme is Weird Animals from July 7-10, 9 am-12 pm. Cost is $40 includes a music CD. Children learn that God’s love is one-of-a-kind, through music, stories, games, activities and snacks.

service, recreation, Bible study and worship. Wednesdays (June 11, 18, 25 and July 16, 23, 30) or Thursdays (June 12, 19, 26 and July 17, 24, 31) throughout the summer from 8:45 am-5 pm. Valleyfair day is August 7.

Grades 1-3: Half Pint Camp at Shores of St. Andrew, July 6-8 or July 9-11. A wonderful introduction to camp for younger children.

Grades 6-9: Jr. High Camp at Luther Park Bible Camp, July 6-11. Camp is a remarkable setting to meet friends, worship, play games, have fun, learn about God and each other, eat amazing food, and hang out with awesome staff. Learn more by going to lordoflife.org/jrhighcamp!

Grades 1-6: VBS theme this year is Living in God’s Time where each day we will celebrate a different season of the church year. Monday-Thursday, July 21-24 or July 28-31, 9 am-3 pm. Cost is $45. Grades 3-5: Elementary Camp at Shores of St. Andrew, July 6-11. A great week of growing in faith, making new friends, and having tons of fun! Grades 5-6: July 15, Club 56 heads to Valleyfair, cost is $30 and includes the water park! Grades 6-9: Summer Stretch, a weekly program where junior high youth (completed grades 6-9) experience

For details and registration, visit lordoflife.org/summer.

Grades 7-12: Jr. & Sr. High Summer Night on July 7, 7-9 pm. Come hang out at church for a bonfire, music, games and fun with friends! Grades 10-12: AWOL (A Work of Love) mission trip to Philadelphia, PA, July 12-23. Sr. high youth (completed grades 10-12) will travel to Philly to work with Habitat for Humanity, building homes for low-income families. We still have spots available! More info and registration is at lordoflife.org/awol.

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

children youth family

august

Grades 1-6: VBS theme this year is Living in God’s Time where each day we will celebrate a different season of the church year. Monday-Thursday, August 4-7, 9 am-3 pm. Cost is $45. Grades 5-6: August 12, Club 56 to Cascade Bay Water Park and Mini Golf! We’ll also tie dye Club 56 T-shirts! Cost is $30 and includes a T-shirt to tie dye. Grades 7-12: Jr. & Sr. High Summer Night on August 4, 7-9 pm. Come hang out at church for a bonfire, music, games and fun with friends!

Fall Registration Opens May 1

Visit lordoflife.org/register to register. Church School runs concurrently with worship services on Saturday evenings (5:30 pm) and Sunday mornings (8:30, 9:45, 11 am). Church School is available for 2 year olds through 6th grade. C3 (Community, Confirmation, and Christ) – all junior high youth even returning C3ers – need to register each year. C3 is offered Sundays at 5 pm (7th grade only), 6 pm with a family meal from 5:30-6:30 pm, or Wednesdays at 4:30 and 6:30 pm with a family meal from 5-6 pm.

Summer Church School

Church School ends on May 17/18. Summer Church School begins Sunday, May 25. Children age 3 to entering grade 3 in the fall have the option of attending Summer Church School on Sundays at all three services. Families go into worship together. After the prayer of the day, children follow a Lord of Life pastor to Samaritan Hall and continue worshipping. Worship is fun and interactive and includes a child-friendly message, Bible reading, prayers and music. There is no cost for Summer Church School. Parents are always welcome!

Join a Ministry Team

We need adults to encourage young people to seek, live and share an active faith in Jesus Christ! Prayerfully consider how you can serve on a ministry team this fall from leading a large group, working with a small group of kids, or greeting families as they arrive. You have gifts to share and we need you to be a part of our team! Talk to Kirstin Delp (kirstind@ lordoflife.org), Julie Wilson (juliew@lordoflife. org), Amanda Clancy (amandac@lordoflife.org), or Raul Garcia III (raul@lordoflife.org) to get involved.

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

children youth family

May Bible Verse is: “Planted in the house of the Lord, they shall flourish in the courts of our God.” Psalm 92:13

Happy May!

by Angie Schiebel, Director of Karing Kingdom Preschool

May Book Picks

10 Things I Can Do to Help My World by Melanie Walsh Simple, kid-friendly tips on ways to stay green.

t’s hard to believe that this is our final month of preschool. My, time sure does fly when you’re having fun. During this last month of school we will continue with our planting theme as we once again, with the help of Alice Woodard, Lord of Life’s Master Gardener, have our own plot in Lord of Life’s LifeGARDEN. Celebrating our families, especially our moms, will be the theme for our Mother’s Day week, culminating with a Mother’s Day Tea. Our last week of karing kingdom preschool school we will be learning about different community Angie Schiebel, Director, x127, kingdom@ helpers. Maple Grove firefighters will be visiting lordoflife.org Karing Kingdom Preschool as their final installment Teachers: Jennifer Ellingson, Maureen of the GLOW (Giving Little Ones Wisdom) program Murphy Hanson, and Carly Tappe sponsored by the Maple Grove Fire Department. We will also be taking a field trip to the Hennepin County Sheriff ’s Office Open House. Our end-of-the-year Student Recognition and Family Night will be Thursday, May 15, at 7 pm in the sanctuary. Karing Kingdom Preschool continues to take registration for the 201415 school year. For more information about Karing Kingdom Preschool, please call 763.420.5015 x127 or email us at kingdom@lordoflife.org.

Mommy, Do You Love Me? by Jeanne Willis This little chick cheeps, chirps, and shouts (very loudly!). But no amount of squawking will change Mommy’s love.

Homemade hat for Hat Day

March came in like a lion!

Shaving cream cotton candy

May 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

Celebrating 10 years of changing ex-offenders’ lives—

FreedomWorks Celebration

n Thursday, May 29, Lord of Life is hosting a dinner and benefit celebrating FreedomWorks’ 10th anniversary. Keynote speaker for the evening will be Kevin Kling (see sidebar) along with testimonials by past and current residents of the program.

What is FreedomWorks? Its vision was given to Fred Peterson in 2003 while leading a weekly Bible study with men at Minnesota’s Lino Lakes Correctional Facility. Fred said he awoke one night and heard the words Freedom… Works, then again Freedom…Works, and finally FreedomWorks. FreedomWorks would be a safe place for men transitioning from prison back into society through faith in Jesus Christ. It’s an environment to live and grow in Christ, meet mentors, continue Bible studies, learn to be trusted, and how to trust once again. Today 19 men are recipients of God’s grace living out the model found in 2 Timothy 2:2: These things you have learned in front of many witnesses, now teach them to other faithful men that they can indeed teach others. FreedomWorks is a faith-based approach giving ex-offenders a safe place to lay their heads, reconnect with society, restore their families, and find employment. FreedomWorks’ new vision is to expand this ministry from 19 to 35 residents. With God working through us collectively, this goal can be accomplished!

Many FreedomWorks men struggle to overcome adversities and the curveballs that Several supportive volunteers are members of the Lord of Life family. Through prayer, lots of elbow grease and paint, financial and mentor support, FreedomWorks became a reality in 2004 with the opening of the Welcome Back Center in north Minneapolis.

Registration is at 5:45 pm with the buffet dinner at 6:15 pm. Tickets are $30; register in advance at FreedomWorks (myfreedomworks.com) or contact Deb at 612.522.9007. Please respond by May 22. If you are unable to attend the event, but would like to learn more about the program or opportunities to serve these men, please contact Greg or Cheryl Myhr at gcmyhr@embarqmail.com or 763.424.3537.

life throws their way. Kevin Kling knows what it is like overcoming adversities: having been born with a weak arm and then paralyzed in the other arm from a car accident. An Osseo graduate, he is a commentator for National Public Radio’s All Things Considered and has authored five books. His message will be an inspiration that will bless all who come. See Kevin’s full biography on

It was for freedom that Christ set us free; therefore keep standing firm and do not be subject again to a yoke of slavery. Galatians 5:1

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

FreedomWorks’ website, myfreedomworks.com.

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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 June issue is May 1. Copyright 2014 Lord of Life Lutheran Church

caught reading lifetimes

Inspired by Red Nose Day, a worldwide hunger relief campaign, the adult ministries leaders donned noses at their retreat as a reminder that, with God’s help, big things come from small ideas.

Pancho the Palm Saturday/Sunday donkey takes a break between services to read LifeTIMES!

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