A monthly ministry of Lord of Life Lutheran Church of Maple Grove, Minnesota
LifeTIMES
May 2015
Excellent Educator Awards
Bright and early on Tuesday morning, April 7, WCCO-TV dropped in unannounced to Lord of Life’s Karing Kingdom Preschool. Reporter Kim Johnson (holding Carly Tappe’s certificate above) interviewed and awarded Excellent Educator certificates to Karing Kingdom staff. Director Angie Schiebel shares, “It is incredible to receive this award because it came from our parents who nominated Karing Kingdom!” Presented in Lord of Life’s Prayer Chapel, the preschoolers as well as Pastor Peter Geisendorfer-Lindgren and Office Manager Nancy Bourbonais looked on. Teacher Carly Tappe (photo at left) was in the hospital earlier that morning having her son, Lucas. Congratulations to all! To view WCCO’s Karing Kingdom video, visit http://minnesota.cbslocal.com/2015/04/10/ excellent-educator-meet-karing-kingdoms-teaching-staff. Karing Kingdom’s monthly update is on Page 19.
LO R D O F LI FE LU T HE R A N C H UR CH (ELCA) 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
e what’s this? See Pag 7 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
PASTO RA L S TA F F Rev. Peter Geisendorfer-Lindgren, Senior Pastor, peter@lordoflife.org Rev. Sarah Bunge, Pastor, Evangelism/Worship, sarahb@lordoflife.org Rev. Dr. Karen Geisendorfer-Lindgren, Pastor, Adult Ministries, karengl@lordoflife.org Rev. Karen Sue Greimel, Pastor, Pastoral Care, ksgreimel@lordoflife.org Rev. Charles ‘Chick’ Lane, Pastor, Stewardship/Generosity, chickl@lordoflife.org Rev. David McCarty, Pastor, Outreach/Mission, davem@lordoflife.org Rev. Donna Rohrer, Pastor, L5/Adult Bible Study, donnar@lordoflife.org Pastoral Intern Taylor Wilson, taylorw@lordoflife.org
TABLE OF CO N T E N T S Worship Schedule / Pastor’s Message . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Pages 2-3 Lord of Life / Celebrate Recovery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Pages 4-5 Generosity / L5 Forum and Announcements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Pages 6-7 One Mission One World: Acts 29, Jamaica , Uganda . . . . . . . . . . . . . Pages 8-9 Lord of Life Ministries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Pages 10-18 Karing Kingdom Preschool . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 19
Lord of Life’s Easter Egg Hunt in our backyard was well-attended— more photos on Page 14 as well as Facebook (lordoflifelutheran)!
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 (June-August) at 7 pm with Holy Communion C3 Sunday, May 3, is Ecclesia worship at 7 pm Third Sunday, May 17, worship at 10 am at Good Samaritan - Ambassador in New Hope Third Wednesday, May 20, worship at 12:45 pm at Arbor Lakes Senior Living in the 2nd floor community room and at 2:30 pm at Rose Arbor Assisted Living in their red room Healing Service is Saturday, May 9, directly after worship at 6:30 pm in Lord of Life’s Prayer Chapel May 2/3 Preaching: Pastor Peter Geisendorfer-Lindgren Special Music Saturday: Praise Band Sunday: Joyful Noise (8:30 and 9:45 am), Canticle Choir (11 am) May 9/10 Preaching: Pastor Karen Sue Greimel Special Music Saturday: Praise Band Sunday: Bel Canto (all services), Canticle Choir (8:30 and 9:45 am), Soloist Victoria Brinton (11 am) May 16/17 Preaching: Pastor Peter Geisendorfer-Lindgren Special Music Saturday: Praise Band Sunday: New Life Ensemble
Table of Contents / Worship schedule
May 23/24 - Pastor Sarah says, “It’s Pentecost; let’s all wear red!” Preaching: Pastor Sarah Bunge Special Music Saturday: Praise Band Sunday: Soloist Haylee Donalson
2 May 2015
May 30/31/June 1 Preaching: Pastor Chick Lane Special Music Saturday: Praise Band Sunday: Taylor Wilson Monday: to be announced Please note worship and music schedules may be subject to change.
April Showers Bring May Flowers, and ... by Pastor Dave McCarty
“...suddenly from heaven there came a sound like the rush of a violent wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting. Divided tongues, as of fire, appeared among them, and a tongue rested on each of them. All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit...” Acts 2:2-4a Pastor Dave McCarty
April showers bring May flowers, and the Holy Spirit comes to the world as a gift from God that brings new life and gives power to a body of believers who become the church! This month we celebrate the day of Pentecost and as we look at the events that occurred following the Easter resurrection, we can also look outside our window and observe another miracle. Minnesota is a special place as we experience the extremes that nature provides us. The fall and winter can feel like a long dreary period of time. The darkness of the day far exceeds the light, the trees go dormant, the grass seems to die, lakes freeze solid, and the wildlife hibernates or simply escapes in a mass exodus of migration. But those of us who grew up here know things will change—darkness is overcome by light, the trees bud into new life, the grass grows green, the flowers form a mosaic of beauty that the great artists can’t even seem to capture on canvas, and the water flows fresh and clean in the rivers and lakes. God’s creation comes alive this time of year, and God’s created creatures came alive on the day of Pentecost. Jesus’ resurrection on Easter morning was a continuation of the story that started in Genesis and continues today. During the seven weeks following Easter, Jesus appeared to His followers multiple times providing guidance and encouragement, and finally before He ascended he provided them with assurance, saying, “I am with you always, to the end of the age” Matthew 28:20b. Between Holy Week and Pentecost, Jesus’ disciples witnessed darkness, death and new life. They also experienced doubt as their faith went dormant, and despair as everyone seemed to migrate away from what no doubt seemed a cold and gloomy place. Those who stayed during this dry and desolate period of seven weeks heard Jesus’ Gospel message firsthand, they were spectators who didn’t know they were soon going to become active and empowered participants. And then it happened! God brings His Son home, albeit temporarily, and sends His Holy Spirit to the believers and the church is born! As Jesus was raised from the darkness of the tomb, so too God’s people are reborn as a unified and unstoppable body of believers. On that day, Light overcomes darkness and God’s created creatures come together to create a masterpiece that no artist or author could ever begin to adequately describe. And we at Lord of Life Lutheran Church are continuing that amazing miracle of rebirth as we, empowered by the Holy Spirit, worship God and serve our neighbors near and far. We are part of this Pentecost miracle—we too have been given new life, the energy of light, the power of living water, the beauty of love, and the promise of salvation.
—Pastor Dave
Pastor’s Message
As you enjoy the beauty of the spring miracle happening around you, I pray you will also enjoy the Pentecost miracle happening within you and your church family. The church is born, and each of us is a child of God, loved beyond measure!
May 2015 3
Prayers of sympathy for those who are grieving the loss of a loved one; may they be comforted in the promise of the resurrection. Mike Anderson and family at the death of his mother Carrie Berndt and family at the death of her mother Steven Bohnsack and family at the death of his mother Chris Colegrove and family at the death of her mother Bev Faulkner and family at the death of her father
baptisms
At Lord of Life, we baptize individuals at any age. The next baptism class is Sunday, May 3, at 11 am; no pregistration is necessary. To schedule a baptism, please call the church office (763.420.5015). March 1 Harper Anne Baldwin Parker Clyde Bussa
Lord of Life
Terri Hanson and family at the death of her father Nancy Hilstrom and family at the death of her father Sandy Jones and family at the death of her brother Phil Leith and family at the death of his cousin
March 7 Quinn Avleen Okerlund Jaxon John Skagerberg Ethan Grant Skagerberg
Debbie, Amelia, Erik, and Luke Palmer and family at the death of their husband/father
March 8 Addyson Grace Hunter
Deric Craig with Colin, Anna, and Olivia
welcome to new members Bob Danielson with Maggie
March 14 Jamison Ray Grossman
Brett & Alanna Essman with Jude
March 21 Jennifer Nicole Davis Julie Lind Davis Asher J Schuknecht Steven Chase Belman Stella Marie McCormick
Jeff & Pam Thiemann with Becca
March 22 Harrison Isaac Priebe Audrey Jane Klesk Margit Rose Danielson Carly Nicole Anderson Nolan Richard Anderson
4 May 2015
Lisa-Marie Hanson and family at the death of her mother
March 29 Calder Lee Brick
Joe & Sue Fousek with Aimee and Maddie Evan Vik with Oaklee 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. 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.
Original illustration by Bev Mello
bereavements
A State of Acceptance by Michelle Welinski, Director of Pastoral Care, Missions and Ministries If you’re like me, you have probably seen the movie Frozen once or twice. Maybe you have heard its song over and over and wish your kids would Let It Go! Perhaps you noticed it was Lord of Life’s Lenten theme and cover of the March issue of LifeTIMES. During March, midweek worshippers were encouraged to write something that they were trying to let go of on the chalkboard in Samaritan Hall (see center photo below). Many times when life brings painful, difficult challenges, many of us live in a state of denial. Living in denial stops us short of living the life we were created to live. We pretend it didn’t happen or it wasn’t that bad or no one will know. When we live this way, we are almost always in a state of conflict or resentment with ourselves and/or others.
We can choose to continue to live this way, or we can be honest with ourselves, God and others we trust, about the issues we are struggling with. And then, let it go.
She could continue to struggle, mourn, and freeze out others OR she could release her expectations, hurts, and habits. It was up to her. Just like it’s up to us.
Once we step out of denial, we find ourselves in a state of acceptance—almost. We can waiver back and forth about what happened and our response. It’s at this point when we need to make a real decision. When we make a real decision, all other options are off the table. This is how we let it go. Have you ever played a scenario in your mind over and over rehashing the story with family, friends? The tighter we hold on to those hurts and habits, the harder it is to let go. If our fists are clenched around something, fighting to hold on to what we know (whether we really want it or not), we are not ready to receive something that might be better or at a minimum would release the strain and stress of holding on by relaxing or releasing our grip.
Take the first step by checking out Celebrate Recovery on Tuesday nights. You will be warmly welcomed by many others on the path of letting something go. There is power in community, especially Christian community. Are you willing to be brave and let it go? Celebrate Recovery is every Tuesday evening with an optional dinner from 5:45-6:30 pm then programming from 6:30-8:30 pm. Childcare is provided as well as Celebration Place for children in K-6. Questions? Contact Michelle Welinski at michellew@ lordoflife.org or 763.420.5015 x118.
In the movie Frozen, Elsa struggled with the circumstances of her life. When Elsa stopped living in denial and anger over her reality and began to accept the facts, she had a decision to make.
Celebrate Recovery May 2015 5
Best Wishes to Al Albrecht
For the past three years, Lord of Life member Al Albrecht has served as parish administrator at Lord of Life. His responsibilities included human resources, leadership, strategic planning, budget development, and being the right-hand man for our Senior Pastor Peter Geisendorfer-Lindgren. Al and his wife, Judy, will begin their retirement together in June. They plan to spend more time with their children and grandchildren. They look forward to spending longer periods at their lake near McGregor, Minnesota, and traveling to locales yet to be determined. And they, particularly Al, plan to take long leisurely walks while hitting a small white ball with a stick. When asked about his time as administrator at Lord of Life, Al shared, “I’ve loved every minute of it. I feel privileged to have had this opportunity to serve my church.” We wish Al & Judy good health and happiness in the next phase of their lives. Cake and coffee will be served in Fellowship Hall between services on Sunday, May 31. Please stop by and personally thank Al for his service.
Stewarding Time & Talents
Following the 9:45 am worship service on Sunday, May 3, there will be a congregational meeting in the sanctuary.
by Pastor Chick Lane What are you good at? What do you like to do? The answers to these two questions may lead you toward a place where you can use talents God has given you for the good of other people. When we think of the word stewardship, most people think either of money or the earth. We think of how we use the money God has entrusted into our care, and we think of how we care for the earth on which God has placed us. But there is more to stewardship than money and the earth, although they are certainly important. The old definition of stewardship as having to do with time, talents and treasure is helpful here. What are you good at? is another way of asking, what talents do you have? What do you like to do? gets at finding something that is enjoyable, and thus will cause you to keep investing your time in it.
Generosity
What are you good at? What do you like to do? I remember my father loved to coach Little League baseball. He was good at it. He had played professional baseball for a couple years until he decided that he was never going to make the major leagues; and the life of a minor league baseball player during the depression was not the life he wanted for himself. He liked baseball, but more importantly, he liked helping kids. So for years he coached Little League. It started when I was playing, but it lasted long after I had moved on to older leagues. For years he used his time and his talents to help other people in this way. How are you using your time and talents to help others? This is a stewardship question. God has given you talents. God has given you time. How are you being a good steward of these gifts? Summer, with its often slower pace, might be the perfect time to think about this and do some exploring. What options are out there that are a good fit for your talents, and your time? How will you steward these gifts from God?
6 May 2015
Budget Year-to-date March 2015 Actual
Total member contributions All other Total receipts
Budget
Difference
$783,863
$776,819
$7,044
$80,977
$78,121
$2,856
$864,840
$854,940
$9,900
Lord of Life Weekly Giving — March 2015 $70,000 $60,000 $50,000 $40,000 $30,000 $20,000 $10,000 $0
3/1 3/8 3/15 3/22 3/29
Actual $58,615 $56,713 $53,703 $50,323 $48,513 Budget $56,311 $56,311 $56,311 $56,311 $56,311
May 3 - Dr. Matt Skinner
Everything You Need to Know About Jesus in 45 Minutes ONE-SHOT FORUM
This One-shot Forum is at 9:45 or 11 am in the Luther Room (lower level). For biographies on speakers, visit lordoflife.org/L5.
There’s a lot we can’t know about Jesus, and there’s also a lot we can know. But what things are really essential? How do we explore who Jesus was and what the Bible says about Him in ways that honor both the depth and the simplicity of the good news? Join in as we look at some basic claims the Bible makes about Jesus. These claims help us understand the Jesus who roamed Galilee 2000 years ago. Just as important, they help us see who God is, who we are, what it means to live a life of faith, and how we can communicate the gospel to others.
lutheran social service (LSS) clothing drive
A reminder of the children’s clothing drive and to bring in gently used and new children’s clothing in infant-adult sizes. See full article in April’s LifeTIMES (lordoflife.org/lifetimes). Dates for collection are May 1-17 and visit lordoflife.org/ LSS for details.Volunteers are also needed. Questions? Contact Jane Bergstrom at janeb@lordoflife.org.
communications update
Introducing Lord of Life’s new logo ... incorporating the cross and the @ symbol into one identifiable image. Asking where do you see “Christ at” in your life? Christ at Lord of Life. Christ at home. Christ at school. Christ at work in your heart. New applications of this logo will be rolled out on a gradual basis—with LifeTIMES as the first in print. Lord of Life’s new website, lordoflife.org, went live in April— we hope you will find it fresh and more user-friendly.
via de cristo
Do you know what Via de Cristo is? It is a structured three-day weekend that is held at a local church. It starts on Thursday evening and ends on Sunday evening. Participants live, study, worship and commune together daily. The objective of a Via de Cristo weekend is to equip church members for Christian action in their homes, churches and communities. It is effective in growing leaders for Christ.
As part of her education to become a licensed marriage and family therapist, Lord of Life member Katrina Bahen is offering free counseling sessions for couples. •
Identify strength and growth areas
•
Explore personality traits
•
Strengthen communication skills
•
Resolve conflicts and reduce stress
•
Comfortably discuss financial issues
•
Establish personal, couple, and family goals
Whether you are dating, engaged, or married—discover your strengths as a couple and learn to overcome relational challenges. Katrina is a licensure candidate in the Marriage and Family Therapy program at Saint Mary’s University. She is interning with a counseling center in Elk River. Call 763.633.5111 to make an appointment.
L5 Forum and Announcements
Via de Cristo is a Spanish phrase meaning “Way of Christ.” The next weekends are June 4-7 for men and June 11-14 for women. They are being held at St. Philips in Fridley. If you want to attend, now is the time to register. If you want more information or an application contact Tony & Diane Sjolander at tdsjolander@ comcast.net or Merle & Michelle Waldron at mmwaldron@comcast.net.
free couples’ counseling
May 2015 7
From Pastor Dave— Lord of Life’s One Mission One World team served in Jamaica March 28 - April 4. This faithful group of missionaries included families and individuals, ages 14+ and they served God by sharing God’s love with the children of Westhaven Children’s Home and Clifton Boys’ Home. During Holy Week, they painted and pounded, cared for those in need, and worshiped with the local community of believers. God performed miracles in and around this team and they witnessed His grace and love in numerous ways. There are many stories to be told—I encourage you to talk to the team and listen to their stories. Connie Luebke has been a wonderful example of what it means to be a Lord of Life member living out her faith locally and abroad. She has been a long-time faithful supporter and servant in Jamaica and in many areas here at home. I’ve asked her to share a story of how her faith was impacted during this year’s trip, and her heartwarming story follows: “I helped Najoki feed Tamieka, also known as Mooney, by holding a bowl of porridge while Najoki shoveled the porridge into Tamieka’s mouth. I felt very inadequate holding the bowl, but my fear of stepping out of my comfort zone kept me from offering any extra help. Much of the porridge slid out of her mouth and down her neck since she was laying flat in her bed. I helped clean her up when Najoki was done feeding her and left feeling disappointed that I had not done more.
Lord of Life Ministries
(left to right) Connie Luebke, Trudy from Westhaven, and Christi Newell on her first time Jamaica mission.
8 May 2015
Later, at lunch, a determination came over me and I asked Najoki if I could feed Tamieka. I think she was surprised I asked, but she gave me the bowl and stepped aside. I took a deep breath as I sat down next to Tamieka—this was so out of my comfort zone. But Tamieka opened her mouth and let me spoon the porridge into it. I found I needed to move quickly though or she would snap her jaw shut and the spoon would be clenched in her teeth. Her eyes, not always focusing in the same direction, stared at me as I continued to feed her and wipe up the spillage from her mouth. A calmness came over me, and I started to sing to her very softly ‘Jesus Loves You.’ Her whole body seemed to soften and her eyes no longer stared, but seemed as if they had also softened. Tears started trickling down my face as I continued to softly sing. Thoughts started to fill my mind ‘... when we meet in Heaven, what will she say to me? Would she remember this day? Will she be singing and dancing? Dear Lord, please let her have a few moments of joy...’ I continued to feed her and softly sing until the porridge was gone. As I cleaned her up and gently teased her about the mess I had made, I prayed that she would know she is a child of God, loved beyond measure. I may never know if Tamieka experienced joy that day, but I know she has touched my heart, forever.” —Connie Luebke
acts 29
uganda
The deadline to register for the 2015 Acts 29 mission is May 17. This year’s trip will be to Tuscaloosa, Alabama. We will work with Habitat for Humanity re-building homes that were damaged by the tornadoes of 2011. The dates of the trip are July 25-August 1. Questions? Please contact Merle and Michelle Waldron at 763.420.5388 or mmwaldron@comcast.net.
During the month of June, Kent Dirks will be traveling once again to visit the various projects that Lord of Life and Hope4Kids International have developed with Pastor Peter Obbo in the village of Juba, Uganda. Check for updates in this summer’s LifeTIMES.
fmsc
Joanna (in orange) and Kate (in blue) with Chantal and Kerry Ann in Jamaica.
Lend a helping hand to Feed My Starving Children (FMSC). You may sign up directly with FMSC.org/volunteers. This enables individuals or small groups to sign up for packing food any time or any date. Shown below is the actual FMSC food being delivered to orphanages in Jamaica by Lord of Lifers. If you have questions about FMSC, feel free to call LaVerne Kinvig at 763.478.6799. Thank you.
Tim, Logan, Jake, Bret and Nathan after loading a truck with FMSC boxes to be delivered to orphanages in Jamaica.
Greg and Tim replacing termite-infested ceiling in Westhaven’s kitchen.
Lord of Life Ministries May 2015 9
Hope Lodge
Lord of Life’s Hope Lodge ministry impacts so many lives! Thank you for supporting this ministry for the past four years. The following words of appreciation and gratitude were expressed by Hope Lodge guests, caregivers, volunteers, and staff members: I just want to thank you first of all for sharing yourselves. I cherish you all. Secondly, the food always nourishes the body. I love the ice cream! (Bob & Aimee) Thank you for the shawl! Your church is truly a blessing. God bless you for all that you do! (Willow) Thank you so much for the delicious dinner on February 9. We have been truly amazed at what we’ve experienced at Hope Lodge. The sharing of time, talent, and treasure has been wonderful and truly helps us as patients and caregivers to feel that we aren’t alone. (David & Sharie) We have enjoyed every one of your wonderful dinners! Thanks! (Nancy & Scott)
Service Center
A huge thank you to Lord of Life for making us feel at home by bringing in dinner. It makes us feel like a big family. (Jackie) We are so thankful for all that you do for people staying at the Hope Lodge Minneapolis! Your love and kindness means so much to the guests. As a staff person at the Hope Lodge I wanted to let you know guests speak about how wonderful your group is throughout the week after your visit. You make such a difference in the lives of so many people. Thank you so much for all that you do. (Mary, Staff) Thanks to all the volunteers who made this event happen. It helps so much to have a stress free meal during this difficult time. (Jennifer & Derek) Thank you for all you do for the patients and families here! We are inspired by you and we are all try to pay it forward with other donations and projects. God bless. (Summer, Prudence, & Angel)
You are encouraged to take a little stroll through the building to see the Service Center. It is located on the main level of the addition at the very end of the hallway just past Reflections of Faith resource center. The Service Center is where you will find bins clearly marked for your donations to the various ministries supported by Lord of Life. Current ministry needs are also posted in the Service Center. For a complete list of ministry needs—including donations gratefully accepted by other community organizations—visit lordoflife.org/donationcentral.
Lord of Life Ministries
Heidi Hustoft and daughter Joanna demonstrate what has been donated in Service Center. Food donations to CROSS, fresh produce from LifeGARDEN, and sandwiches prepared for those who are homeless— all that and more are in Lord of Life’s Service Center. Stop down for a visit!
10 May 2015
Part One of a Two-part Article—
Support Homeless Vets
by Michael Yu (shown in photo below) Each year in November, Lord of Life thanks military veterans with the military medley song during worship and asks those who served to stand up. It’s a great way to show appreciation and to thank those who served for their sacrifices and the freedom we enjoy. For most veterans, adjustment to normal life after their military service is a joyful one. However, in Minnesota we have approximately 500-900 homeless veterans. May is National Military Appreciation Month. In this first of a two-part article, we’d like to highlight homeless veterans and show how YOU can help. There is a saying that we are all a few bad mistakes and health conditions from being homeless. Life has a way of throwing curve balls—and for many we have savings, opportunities, and a network of friends or families who provide a cushion. There are many veterans who have those curve balls, along with injuries related to their military service, preventing them from being able to bounce back. Over half of Minnesota’s homeless veterans have a mental illness which complicates the situation in seeking services to get off the streets. These veterans have little or no money, support, or a home to have a hope for the future. Lord of Life’s Military Family Support Ministry would like to make it our mission to end homelessness in Minnesota for military veterans. Lord of Life’s Military Family Support Ministry’s partnership with MACV (Minnesota Assistance Council for Veterans) is one of our latest endeavors. MACV is a nonprofit organization which has offered assistance to veterans for 25 years. This assistance covers three major areas: housing, employment, and legal assistance. Their goal is to get veterans back on their feet and on the road to becoming productive members of our society. Military Family Support Ministry is asking for your help in this effort. MACV will have what they call a StandDown in August, providing an environment for homeless veterans to get together with one another and meet all kinds of groups offering services to help them receive the counseling they desperately need to move on with their lives in a productive manner. During this StandDown, we are planning to purchase and donate 1,000 canvas-corded backpacks filled with hygiene and personal items such as: •
Battery-operated alarm clocks
•
Shampoo/conditioner, toothbrushes/toothpaste (travel-size)
•
Combs, deodorant, soap, small Kleenex® packages
•
Shaving cream and razors (men and women)
•
Books of Forever postage stamps
upcoming projects
In addition to helping veterans through the MACV program, Lord of Life’s Military Family Support Ministry is also entering into an agreement to become a participating partner in the annual Hamel Rodeo held the second week in July. A sign-up sheet will be posted for volunteers willing to help during the week of the rodeo. This volunteer effort will generate income with 100% of it used for our veterans. Our third summer endeavor is helping out with furnishing and landscaping for a home being built and donated by Pulte Homes for a disabled veteran.
We could really use your help getting enough items to fill the 1,000 corded backpacks. If you could find it in your heart to help out with these items, drop them off in the Military Family Support Ministry’s bin in the Service Center. Thank you for your kindness!
(left to right) Top row: Dale Mallberg, Jay Henrikson, Lucy Chisato-Rodvik, Kathleen Vitalis (MACV), Cindy Larson (MACV), Kimberly Stenerson, Jim Rohrer. Bottom row: Keith Hohenstein, Michael Yu, Bonnie Mallberg, John Rodvik, Bill Carlyon.
Lord of Life Ministries May 2015 11
OWLs & Eagles
On March 19 the OWLs headed for the National Eagle Center in Wabasha. After lunch at the center, they heard an interesting lecture all about American Bald Eagles and Golden Eagles, the two species native to North America. They then met Was’aKa’, one of the eagles who live at the center because they are injured and unable to survive in nature. With his strong beak, Was’aKa’ tore apart his lunch, a piece of perch. There was also time to shop in the gift store, enjoy the artifacts and paintings or to wander outside, and watch the eagles across the river in Wisconsin as they soared looking for food, though they were so far away they only looked like black specks in the sky. The OWLs headed home in the comfortable rented coach.
Older Wiser Lutherans may
Thursday, May 7: Where did you attend grade school— was it one of Minnesota’s schoolhouses? Photographer Doug Ohman will share stories and pictures of schoolhouses filled with memories of days gone by. Bring a friend and enjoy the fun with freewill donation lunch beginning at noon in Fellowship Hall.
Lord of Life Ministries
Wednesday, May 20: Worship service at Arbor Lakes at 12:45 pm and/or Rose Arbor Assisted Living at 2:30 pm.
12 May 2015
Thursday, May 21: The Oliver Kelley Farm is an 1860s working farm in Elk River. Mr. Kelley was the founder of the first national agricultural organization known as the Grange. We will have a guided tour of the farm, which is a national historic landmark. The farm is ADAaccessible, but there is walking involved. We will enjoy lunch at Rockwood Grill before heading to the farm. We will leave church at 10:30 am and return at 4 pm. Cost is $9 with lunch on your own. Friday, May 22: LifeTIMES labeling in Fellowship Hall at 9:30 am.
A Final Resting Place
Lord of Life’s Memorial Peace Garden is located across from the main sanctuary entrance. Constructed in 2008, it currently offers two columbariums for the permanent resting places of —John 11:25 cremation urns as well as locations for scattering of ashes plus a Memorial Wall for granite plaque memorials. Church history throughout the world has recognized the importance of serving its members in death care as well as life care by locating cemeteries, columbariums, or memorials on their property. Creation of the garden included construction of 10 additional footings for future granite columbariums providing a total capacity of 1000+ urns for church and community members; you do not need to be a member of Lord of Life. “Making your personal preferences known is priceless to your surviving loved ones,” states Lori Schwartz, Columbarium Administrator. She adds, “The peace of mind that a family has in knowing they are following your wishes is very comforting in the overall grief process and it relieves a great deal of stress.” Additional information is also available at lordoflife.org/memorialpeacegarden. If questions, feel free to contact Lori Schwartz at 763.420.5015 x111 or loris@lordoflife.org.
I am the resurrection and the life.
save the date Thursday, June 4: Rain or shine—the OWLs annual
picnic begins at 12 noon with a freewill donation lunch in Fellowship Hall. The 80-member Synod Senior Band will brighten your day with toe-tapping, sing-a-long, feel-like-dancing music. It is a perfect way to start the summer! Tell your friends and don’t miss it! Thursday, June 18: Our first stop will be the Faribault Woolen Mills which has been in business since 1865. The Woolen Mill has played a part in history with its blankets in covered wagons and with our troops during war years. We will have a guided tour of the factory, then have time in the retail shop. We will have lunch at the Depot Bar & Grill. After lunch we will visit The Cheese Cave for a cheese tasting, then spend some time in the historic downtown area. We will leave at 9 am and return around 5 pm. Cost is $9 with lunch on your own.
CROSS Services in Rogers is the local foodshelf serving Maple Grove, Osseo, Corcoran, parts of Champlin and Rogers. They serve approximately 100 families each week and make many referrals to other agencies. Foodshelf visits are up and continue to rise at record levels. CROSS is looking for volunteers on Wednesday, May 20, to sort food, sell clothes and maybe help at the reception desk from 5-7:30 pm. A group of about 10 is needed. Kids, 14-year-olds and under, must be with an adult. Volunteers can sign up on the bulletin board or contact Jane Bergstrom at janeb@lordoflife.org or Donna Walther at dkpw87@hotmail.com. God’s Work. Our Hands.
Lord of Life Ministries
See the bulletin board or lordoflife.org/owls for more details of upcoming events. 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 all participants. Questions? Contact Joyce or Gordy Martin directly at grjsmartin@embarqmail.com or 763.497.7355.
close-to-home volunteering
May 2015 13
Love in Action: Georgia Helvick
may 2
Silent Knights North Minneapolis Spring Clean-up, contact Blake Toms at blake.toms@ regiscorp.com
may 15-17
Time sure does fly—it’s springtime and that means the annual Lord of Life Men’s Retreat! Come and spend a weekend in the rustic setting of Shores of St. Andrew Bible Camp in Spicer, Minnesota. Whether this is your first time at a men’s retreat or you’ve been multiple times, you can expect a retreat blending outdoor activities with evening presentations. There will be guys that bring their bikes, golf, fish, canoe, walk or read, something for everyone. Walking the Talk—Grace, Love, and Mercy are wonderful characteristics of a Christian man but how does that get carried forward from worship to the rest of the week if we’re a husband, father, stepfather, single father, son or friend? What does it mean—in 2015—to live the life of a Christian man? Pastor Dave McCarty and Pastoral Intern Taylor Wilson will share their life stories; you may be surprised by what you hear and/or what you are able to relate to what you hear. We all have stories and we’re all special in the eyes of God. In small groups, we will discuss and hear from each other that it’s not easy to meet all the expectations the world throws at us. Joshua tells his friends and family that, “As for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.” Joshua 24:15—that has become an important part of Pastor Dave’s story. So what’s your story? Deadline for registration/payment is May 6.
“Georgia Helvick has been a blessing to Good Samaritan Society – Ambassador for many years. As a volunteer she has shared pet visits, talked to residents one-on-one and helped with our fundraisers. Georgia also has been an advisory board member. In this role she went to her church outreach leader at Lord of Life Lutheran Church in Maple Grove. Since then, Lord of Life has held church services for our residents one Sunday a month and has shared Society needs with the congregation.
Recently, Georgia went a step further and asked Lord of Life for grant funding and received two grants, which are enhancing our chapel. A new altar, banners, and paraments of the seasons were provided through one grant. A second grant will provide a new sound system for the chapel. We appreciate the love and support we receive from this congregation, and we are blessed to have this relationship with them and with Georgia.” This article was in the Outreach section of Good Samaritan Society - Ambassador’s newsletter (at left) and is reprinted with permission. Stay tuned to LifeTIMES or visit lordoflife.org/goodsamaritan for more information about how you can volunteer at Good Samaritan Society - Ambassador in New Hope.
Pick-up basketball!
july 9
Lord of Life Ministries
The Minnesota Twins play the Detroit Tigers on Thursday, July 9. This is open to everyone. You can come as a single or invite a friend or your family. Carpools leave church at 5:30 pm for the 7:10 pm game. Deadline to register and pay $15.50 is June 17. If you went last year, we’re sitting in pretty much the same area— great seats in Section 304. For more information as well as to register and pay for these events, visit lordoflife.org/realmen. There is also a sign-up posted on the bulletin board by the Welcome Desk with payment made in the office.
14 May 2015
Join in on Monday evenings from 5-7 pm in Lord of Life’s Backyard. All are welcome!
Saturday, May 30, 9 am Kick off the summer and get your rear in gear at the fifth annual Children, Youth & Family (CYF) Fun Run/Walk! All are welcome to participate in a 1 mile or 5k+ run/ walk around Rice Lake. Proceeds support summer trips and camps for children and youth. Registration is open! Visit lordoflife.org/funrun for more details. Questions? Email Elizabeth Pedersen at elizabethp@lordoflife.org.
graduation recognition Graduating this year? Please join us with your friends and family on Sunday, May 17, at the 11 am service as we congratulate and bless you on this important milestone. Afterward we’ll have a reception in Fellowship Hall. small group leaders If you are a senior high youth and want to be involved in Summer Stretch, we are in need of your help as small group leader. It’s a great time to learn to lead a small group and have fun during the summer. If you are interested in helping out, contact Raul at raul@lordoflife.org.
On your mark, get set, go!
jr. high summer Mission Trip: June 14-20 Bible Camp: July 12-17
explore We are going to have food, fun, and games at the last Explore of the year on Sunday, May 3.
Lord of Life’s jr. high mission trip is headed to Rockford, Illinois. Cost is $375 with $150 non-refundable deposit due at registration. Parent meeting is Wednesday, May 13, at 7 pm.
ecclesia Community worship is on Sunday, May 3, at 7 pm.
Jr. high Bible camp is at Luther Park in Danbury, Wisconsin. Cost is $430. For more information on both of these opportunities, visit lordoflife.org/summer.
C3
Christ, Confirmation, Community Celebration End-of-the-Year Party May 3:
Sunday 5-6 pm or 6-7 pm
May 6:
Wednesday 4:30-5:30pm or 6:30-7:30 pm Lord of Life Ministries
summer nights For youth entering grades 7-12, come hangout at church for a bonfire, music, games, and fun with friends! No cost for summer nights on June 8, July 6, and August 3 from 7-9 pm.
May 2015
15
Summer!
For more information and registration, visit lordoflife.org/summer. 3 years-kindergarten Vacation Bible School (VBS) theme is Everest from June 22-25 -or- July 6-9, 9 am-12 pm. Children learn that God’s love is oneof-a-kind through music, stories, games, activities, and snacks. Cost is $41 and includes a music CD. grades 1-6 VBS theme is “A love that Never Ends!” Children will learn what it means to live in a world as God’s chosen people. MondayThursday, July 20-23 -or- July 27-30, 9 am-3 pm. Cost is $45. grades 1-3 Half-pint Camp at Shores of St. Andrew, July 12-14 -or- July 1517. A wonderful introduction to camp for younger children. Cost is $240. grades 3-5 Elementary Camp at Shores of St. Andrew , July 12-17. A great week of growing in faith, making new friends, and having tons of fun! Cost is $440.
God’s blessings and congratulations to 166 youth receiving their first communion during the weekend of April 11/12.
grades 10-12 AWOL (A Work of Love) mission trip to Kansas City, MO, June 14-23. Sr. high youth work with Habitat for Humanity. Cost is $350. grades 9-12 ELCA Youth Gathering in Detroit, Michigan, July 11-20. Senior high youth will join 40,000 people to experience the whole church and how we are called as God’s people. Speakers, service projects, music, worship, friends, and more fun than you can imagine! Cost is $815.
Lord of Life Ministries
Lord of Life’s Good Friday Family Worship included a reenactment of Shel Silverstein’s book, The Giving Tree, with Pastor Peter as the tree and Heather as the child. For communion, Ryan assisted by holding the cross and other symbols of Holy Week. Thanks to everyone involved in this annual Lord of Life Good Friday family tradition.
16 May 2015
Club 56 End-of-the-Year Bash
June 5 from 5-11 pm: All 4th, 5th and 6th graders and their friends are invited! Join in for a night of laser tag, inflatables, hamster balls, face painting, bonfire, Christian rapper Agape, food and more. Cost is $15 and register online at lordoflife. org/club56. This is a party you will not want to miss! club 56 summer events All summer events are from 9 am-5 pm; cost is $30.
June 30:
Big Thrill Factory / Feed My Starving Children
July 28:
Valleyfair / LifeGARDEN
world hunger appeal It’s time to return your hunger banks to Lord of Life anytime in May. They may be dropped off in your Church School meeting room, the Youth Booth, or the main office. Thank you very much.
August 18: Cascade Bay Water Park
The Evangelical Lutheran Church of America (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.
Summer Stretch
For students entering grades 7-9, Summer Stretch combines youth serving throughout the Twin Cities with fun afternoon recreation for six weeks. Summer Stretch ends with a trip to Valleyfair. Dates of Summer Stretch are (pick either Wednesday OR Thursday): June 17/18, 24/25, July 1/2, 8/9, 22/23, 29/30. Parent meetings are either June 10 -or11 (pick one) at 6 pm in the sanctuary.
Attention 6th Graders What’s Next?
Date: Sunday, May 3 Time: 3:30-5 pm 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. Please sign up today at lordoflife.org/whatsnext. 3:30-5 pm
Information and discussion Sibling care provided
5-6 pm Dinner (optional) Siblings welcome
Lord of Life Ministries May 2015 17
Church School
During the three weekends in May, Church School children will go on a Thailand Trek and discover how God loves their world. Groups will rotate between Bible story, games, and experience Thailand stations. May 2/3:
God Is Real
May 9/10: God Is Love May 16/17: God Is Forever
Summer Church School
The 2015 Easter Egg Hunt in Lord of Life’s backyard included music with Penny Meschke and a message from Pastor Sarah. Signifying the resurrection’s empty tomb, all plastic eggs were empty as well. However, there was some candy involved for the kids!
Church School ends May 16/17. Summer Church School begins Sunday, May 24. 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. A Lord of Life pastor will have a short children’s message during worship and then children follow a staff member to Samaritan Hall to continue worshipping. Worship is fun and interactive and includes prayers, music, and child-friendly Bible story activities. There is no cost for Summer Church School. Parents are always welcome!
Thank You!
We are so grateful to all of our Church School leaders who have helped throughout the year. Stop by Trinity Room, Samaritan Hall, or the Youth Room, during May 9/10 and May 16/17 and pick up a special thank you gift. We will have a list of all leaders and ask you to cross your name off the list when you pick up your gift.
Fall Registration
Lord of Life Ministries
Fall registration opens on May 1. Church School runs concurrently with worship services on Saturdays at 5:30 pm and Sundays at 8:30, 9:45 and 11 am. Church School is available for 2 year olds through 6th grade. C3 (Christ, Confirmation, Community): all junior high youth, new and returning C3ers, need to register each year. C3 is offered Sundays at 5 pm (7th & 8th graders only) and 6 pm with a family meal from 5:30-6:30 pm -or- Wednesdays at 4:30 pm and 6:30 pm with a family meal from 5-6 pm.
18 May 2015
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Find us on Pinterest: pinterest.com/ lordoflifeelca We have boards on parenting things, outdoor activities for your family, and helpful tips for sending your child to Bible camp.
Wacky Hair Day!
May Bible Verse: “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness ... ” Galatians 5:22
Bienvenido Mayo
by Angie Schiebel, Director of Karing Kingdom Preschool Welcome May! It is hard to believe that our school year is coming to a close. Where did the time go? The best part is that we enjoyed a truly wonderful year. And it’s not over yet! We begin by celebrating May Day. Next up is Derby Day, as we enjoy the festivities of the Kentucky Derby. The merriment continues as we honor our mothers with Mom’s and Muffins Day and a Mother’s Day Tea. During our last week of school, Maple Grove firefighters will visit Karing Kingdom Preschool. This will be the final segment of G.L.O.W. (Giving Little Ones Wisdom) sponsored by Maple Grove Fire Department. We will also be attending the Hennepin County Sheriff ’s Department Open House to learn more about these important community helpers. Student Recognition and Family Night will be on Thursday, May 14, at 7 pm in the sanctuary. Karing Kingdom Preschool will also commemorate its 20-year anniversary on Saturday, May 16, and Sunday, May 17, after each worship service. Thank you so very much for a year filled with great memories! “Adios, mis amigos” Goodbye, my friends.
Celebrating 20 Years 1995-2015 For more information about Karing Kingdom Preschool, please contact us at kingdom@ lordoflife.org or call 763.420.5015 x127.
Karing Kingdom Preschool
Children had a goal to donate 200 food items for the Ronald McDonald House. If they met that goal, Director Mrs. Schiebel would dress up like a clown. They met and exceeded their goal and donated 347 food items shown on the counter behind each group.
May 2015
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RE T UR N S E R V I C E R E Q U E S TE D - T IME S ENS IT IVE MAT ER IAL L O R D O F LI FE LU THE R A N C HU R C H (ELCA)
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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 June issue is May 1. Copyright © 2015 Lord of Life Lutheran Church
caught reading lifetimes
God’s Work. Our Hands.
After creating 200 cards for Hope Lodge residents, Lord of Life’s Inspired Images stamping & scrapbooking ministry was caught reading LifeTIMES during their annual retreat in April at Mount Carmel in (left to right) Top Row: Co-leader Lisa Gedker, Co-Leader Lynn Anderson, Cathie Martenson, Debbie Nohr, Evelyn Sluiter. Middle Row: Bonnie Hewitt, Diane Vanemmerik, Cindy Cadwallader, Ellen Sanko, Bobbie Hansvick, Jackie Knauff, Bev Mello. Bottom Row: Jeri Espeseth, Lori Schwartz.
20 May 2015
Alexandria.