A monthly ministry of Lord of Life Lutheran Church of Maple Grove, Minnesota
LifeTIMES
May 2017
YOU ARE HERE ...
... AND HERE ...
... AND HERE!
—see Pages 8-9
office@lordoflife.org
/lordoflife
/lordoflifelutheran /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 Family of Faith.............................................................................................. Pages 4-5 Spiritual Wellness and Luther Class / Generosity........................................ Pages 6-7 Lord of Life Ministries................................................................................ Pages 8-14 Karing Kingdom Preschool............................................................................. Page 15
COVER PH O T O
Thank you to Todd Schallberg for this month’s cover:
Worship & Music
On November 11, 2016, I flew over the church building during a solo flight lesson at about 1 pm and took the photo. I hadn’t planned on it and it wasn’t set up the best, but I looked down and there was the church so I snapped a quick photo. Also see Page 13 for a story from confirmation leaders, Bert Weigel and Stephanie Feller, about their group’s service project. If you have photographs, faith stories, poetry, or artwork that you’d like to share with the Lord of Life family, contact Editor Bev Mello (bevm@lordoflife.org).
2 May 2017
may
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
6/7 13/14 20/21 27/28
music
LO R D O F LI FE LU T HE R A N C H UR CH (ELCA)
Pastor Dave McCarty
Pastor Peter Geisendorfer-Lindgren Graduation Recognition, see Page 12
Pastor Joel Wight Hoogheem New Life Ensemble Pastor Joel Wight Hoogheem’s Installation by Bishop Ann Svennungsen (May 21) Pastor Sarah Bunge
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 Third Sunday: May 21 - 10 am, Good Samaritan Ambassador in New Hope Third Wednesday: May 17 - 1 pm, Arbor Lakes Senior Living, and 2:30 pm, Rose Arbor Assisted Living
Worship and music may be subject to change; visit lordoflife.org/worship for more details.
Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me. Matthew 25:40
The Light of Christ by Pastoral Intern Kari Lyn Wampler I had the amazing opportunity to join the One Mission One World: Jamaica team this past March. I have done a fair amount of mission work in my life, so, although I was excited about the trip, I didn’t expect much that I hadn’t already experienced before. Then ... I fell in love. Her name is Kari Ann (the similarities in our names was the springboard to our bond). Kari Ann has little to no use of her arms and legs, her spine is fused, and she has no ability to bend or twist so she spends her days in a wheelchair that lays flat. Kari Ann is one of the many residents at Westhaven Children’s Home. At Westhaven the children are minimally cared for by staff who are overworked and underpaid, the residents have nothing of their own—sharing clothes and the few toys they have—and outside of the missionary team they have little positive interaction. Yet, despite her dire circumstances, Kari Ann is hopeful and positive. She smiles non-stop, radiating God’s love. She would almost always rather be singing praise songs than doing anything else. She once told Phil Leith, the Jamaica ministry lead, that she wants to go to church because she loves praising Jesus for all that she has. The light of Christ shines so brightly in Kari Ann that I am still basking in its glow from across the globe. And I am not alone. So many have been touched by her. I posted pictures and a video of Kari Ann on my Facebook page and was surprised by how many people commented about the impact she has had on them and how loved she is by so many. Her glow is far reaching and renowned. I wonder how many lives Kari Ann has touched. I wonder if she has any idea about the impact she is making in the world. I wonder about the wisdom that she has that is lost on so many of us who, from a worldly perspective, have so much more than she. I wonder if God knew how much the world would be impacted through her. I wonder who exactly are the “least of these.”
See Page 8 for more reflections from recent missionaries’ experiences at Westhaven Children’s Home and Clifton Boys’ Home in Jamaica. Pastor’s Article May 2017 3
baptisms
bereavements
At Lord of Life, we baptize individuals at any age. The next baptism class will be Sunday, May 7, at 12:15 pm. No registration is necessary. To schedule a baptism, please call the church office (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.
March 5 Barrett Michael Peltier
David and Julie Burzlaff and family at the death of their nephew
March 11 Jordan August Vogel March 12 Owen James Bryngelson Samuel James McGuire March 18 Leon Andrew Lilleberg
Famly of Faith
Tina Barnum with Brittany, Hailey, and Sabrina and family at the death of their brother and uncle Joan Domaas and family at the death of her husband Kristine Dooley and family at the death of her mother Lee Driggs and family at the death of his sister Bonnie Fellerman and Greg and family at the death of their father and grandfather Karen Forslund and family at the death of her husband
March 19 Charles William Gengerke Nora Marie Gengerke Coen Brian Schultz Elise Catherine Schultz Quinn Emily Schultz
Gary Gardner and family at the death of his mother
March 25 Violet Grace Randall Ava Lynn Schuknecht
Clayt Jensen and family at the death of his sister
March 26 Annika Jean Ball Finn Curtiss Becicka Jameson Eric Felkey Henry Reynold Freeman Brayden Lee Halzle Kale Alan Nelson Taylor Marie Nelson Grayson William Scheierl Samantha Joelle Sonnenfeld
4 May 2017
Jens Ahrens and family at the death of his mother
Bill Gilman with Emily and Nate and family at the death of their wife and mother Heidi Glasow with Matt and Megan and family at the death of their mother and grandmother Bob and Mary Johnson and family at the death of their son Amanda Locke and family at the death of her father Jill Myhre and family at the death of her mother Lisa Primm and family at the death of her brother Jenny Rogalski with Jake and Jordyn and family at the death of their stepfather and grandfather Connie Schnabel and family at the death of her aunt Ali and Morgan Stottler and family at the death of their father Joni Tardiff and family at the death of her aunt Dave Ullestad and family at the death of his mother Michelle Waldron and family at the death of her mother Kelley Whirley and family at the death of her brother
Lord of Life’s
Family Faith of
weddings March 18 Teal Allen & Brody Thomas
welcome to new members Jesse & Jenna Eastman with Liam David & Kelley Felkey with Jameson Jim & Kathy Hoogheem George & Britnee Morteo with Jude and Ella Travis & Darcie Roche with Roman and Mason JD & Brandi Stavlo with Sophia and Lyla Phil & Michele Theisen with Adelyn 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.
Dare to Dream
Single moms from across Minnesota are invited for a weekend of relaxation, to be refreshed, and to have fun as they are encouraged to “Dare to Dream” about the plans God has for their life! The event is held June 2-3 in Alexandria and sponsored by Bridging the Gap. Through biblical teaching, relaxation, and lots of fun, the mission is to give single moms an opportunity to be wrapped in the loving arms of the Father and dream big dreams that only He can fulfill. Donations of new and ‘like new’ clothing/accessories needed for single moms at the “Dare to Dream” weekend. New underwear, socks, and bras are also needed. Bins are in the Service Center through May 15. For more information, visit mnbtg.org/retreat or contact Nancy Cramer (nrcramer@comcast.net) or Leesa Avila (leesaavila@comcast.net).
happy
Mother’s day
May 14
Family of Faith May 2017 5
Holistic Wellness: Spiritual
Spiritual Personality
by Pastoral Intern Kari Lyn Wampler Each one of us is a unique creation of God, so it’s safe to conclude that not all of us will connect to God in the same way. Worship and coming to church on Sunday is very fulfilling for many people, but others may feel closer to God in other ways. For instance, I am wired relationally, I love connecting with people. It’s therefore not a surprise that I feel the movement of the spirit the most when I am connecting with other people. Womp, my husband, loves to go camping, the further out he is in the woods, the better. He feels closest to God in nature.
Luther and ‘Lutheran Things’
by Pastor Donna Rohrer Every “well prepared” Lutheran should have an understanding of Lutheran “things.” Join in this summer to talk about things Martin Luther learned from the Bible and shared to help the church in his day reform and become more faithful to what the Bible teaches us. This June and July, we'll meet Mondays at 6 pm to talk about the following topics—some briefly, some deeply, and some maybe with a little ‘Lutheran humor.’ Class will conclude in time for Monday night worship. •
Learn about grace
•
Luther’s seal and what it means
•
What it means to be a saint and a sinner
•
Theology of the cross vs theology of glory
Service: Doing things for others
•
How to banish the devil from your presence
Contemplation: Quiet time with God
•
The Small Catechism (What does this mean?)
Study: Digging into scripture and theology
•
How to tell the difference between law and gospel
Creative Expression: Experiencing God when we are creative
•
Seven important things Luther said and what they mean
•
How to be saved (by grace through faith and not by your good works)
•
If vocation means “calling,” what does the priesthood of all believers mean?
•
Five important things the Lutheran reformers wrote or translated and why they are still important today
Here are some other ways you may connect with God:
Justice: Advocating for a cause Ritual: A pattern of religious practices Knowing how we are filled by God is an important part of keeping our faith vibrant and alive. And, as we mature in our faith, we can continue to grow as we experience God in all of these ways. In fact, I encourage you to practice each of these to find new ways to draw close to God. Visit lordoflife.org/wellness to learn more about the holistic wellness initiative.
No registration needed; all classes in the Luther Room.
blessing of the bikes May 7 after 11 am worship
Lord of Life Ministries
For all who are interested and weather permitting, meet at the sanctuary entrance for the annual Blessing of the Bikes.
6 May 2017
God’s Beautiful World by Pastor Chick Lane
Spring is the season of the year when it is easiest to define stewardship. In the fall, the focus of stewardship is often on money. Through much of the rest of the year, it is easy to imagine stewardship as only about how we share our time, talents, and treasure through the church. Spring is different. In the spring, we see the beauty of God’s creation and know that we are stewards of all of it. Spring is the season when the incredibility of God’s creation simply overwhelms us. After months of white and brown—green is everywhere. After two seasons of ever heavier layers of clothing, jackets can be left in the closet. After long periods of hibernation, we again visit with neighbors and take long walks. In the spring, the beauty of God’s creation makes even the crabbiest among us smile. It is wonderful. As we marvel at the beauty of it all, it is easy to remember God is the maker of every bit of it, loves us so much that God has chosen to plant us in the midst of this beauty, and has made us the crown of creation, putting us in charge of this very good earth. Stewardship is what we do to care for what God has made. A fair question to ask ourselves at this time of year is, How will I steward God’s creation in the months ahead? This is both a big-picture question and a very personal question. The big-picture question has to do with learning more and caring more about a world that is very threatened. Are there small things you can do that will in some small way impact climate change? The very personal question is how will you be a good steward as you care for your little corner of God’s beautiful creation? As you are outside this season, make sure that instead of leaving litter, you pick some up. Make sure that you recycle all that you can. Get rid of hazardous items appropriately. The list goes on and on. A good stewardship question is to think about three or four generations from now, and ask yourself, How can I care for God’s earth in such a way that my great-great-grandchildren will be able to enjoy it even more than I do?
Budget Year-to-date March 2017 Actual
Total member contributions All other Total receipts
Budget
Difference
$922,823
$868,328
$54,495
$82,614
$79,420
$3,194
$1,005,437
$947,748
$57,689
Lord of Life Weekly Giving — March 2017 $120,000 $100,000
Annual Men’s Retreat
May 19-21 Villages at Shores of St. Andrew Fellowship, golfing, fishing, biking, hiking, learning, and growing spiritually. With teachings on the reformation and vocation by Martin Luther, Pastor Joel is the speaker. For more details, visit lordoflife.org/mensretreat; please register by May 11.
Hamel Rodeo
$80,000 $60,000
July 6-9
$40,000 $20,000
3/5 3/12 3/19 3/26
Actual Budget
$96,097 $73,838
$61,235 $73,838
$83,389 $62,319 = $303,040 $73,838 $73,838 = $295,350
Generosity
$0
Save the dates to volunteer with Military Family Support Ministry partnering with 2B REAL Men. More details to come!
May 2017 7
Created by Lord of Life’s Ken Carraux in the facilities/grounds/IT department, Steps in the Spirit is a meditative prayer walk focusing on the fruits of the Holy Spirit in Galatians 5:22-23. With each boulder identifying a fruit of the Spirit, you may choose to rest a while or continue on the approximately one-mile path. During all of your Steps in the Spirit, it is our hope you will be reflective, prayerful, and mindfully present in the moment.
Lord of Life Ministries
God bless you in this spiritual journey.
8
May 2017
love For God so loved the world that God gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life. John 3:16
joy May the God of hope fill you with all
joy and peace in believing, so that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13
peace Do not worry about anything; but in
everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-9
patience And not only that, but we also boast in
our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not disappoint us, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit that has been given to us. Romans 5:3-5 kindness Then the righteous will answer Him, ‘Lord, when was it that we saw you hungry and gave you food, or thirsty and gave you something to drink? And when was it that we saw you a stranger and welcomed you, or naked and gave you clothing? And when was it that we saw you sick or in prison and visited you?’ And the King will answer them, ‘Truly I tell you, just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family, you did it to me.’ Matthew 25:37-40
goodness Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord my whole life long. Psalm 23:6
faithfulness My soul continually thinks of it and is bowed down within me. But
this I call to mind, and therefore I have hope: The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, His mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. The Lord is my portion, says my soul, therefore I will hope in him. Lamentations 3:20-24
gentleness Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. Let your gentleness be known to everyone. The Lord is near. Philippians 4:4-5 self-control Make every effort to support your faith with goodness, and goodness with knowledge, and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with endurance, and endurance with godliness, and godliness with mutual affection, and mutual affection with love. 2 Peter 1:4-8
After a staff meeting in April, many Lord of Life employees walked the Steps in the Spirit and stopped
Lord of Life Ministries
by the ‘kindness’ and ‘faithfulness’ markers. Maps are available in the Service Center. May 2017
9
One Mission One World: Jamaica—
Jamaican Reflections
by Phil Leith After my 17th trip to Jamaica and Westhaven Children’s Home, I am again amazed at how welcoming and giving the children of Westhaven and the people of Jamaica are when we work and worship together. You see God working in so many ways. Enjoy some of these highlights from our ministry team: We stopped by the original Clifton Boys’ Home site founded in 1961. It was sad to see the remains of the tragic fire that completely destroyed the main house. Fortunately, the pigs and goats on the spacious property survived and are thriving. The cement shelter our team built in 2014 was still standing, as was the storage shed, library/music room, and staff quarters. —Dave, Dena, Jake, and Ben Strehlow It has been very rewarding. We’ve met some special people in Jamaica at Clifton Boys’ Home and Westhaven Children’s Home. It’s also been wonderful getting to know some of our church family, too, an awesome group of people! —Mark, Roxanne, and Caleb Robinson As a parent, I have to say that watching my kids interact with the Westhaven kids is so rewarding. For that matter, all of the Lord of Life kids who are with us have done such a fabulous job with the Westhaven kids and with their work on the other jobs at both sites. —Lynn Key We got to paint their school building so it wouldn’t get eaten by termites. The girls helped out with laundry and we learned lots of songs from one of the laundry ladies, Shellyanne. We had a really great time and we bonded a lot with the kids who we’ll miss dearly until we go back to see them again. —Kate Kapsner, Nathan Key, Danielle Key, and Lucy Wampler
Lord of Life Ministries
Clifton: There were some somber moments as I stood on the site where the Clifton boys lived until their building burned to the ground a few months ago. But I also experienced the hopeful spirit and resolute determination of Miss Mack and the boys as we worked to paint their new temporary quarters. Westhaven: A visit to Westhaven is always humbling. Humbling because these children with severe mental and physical challenges never fail to inspire us. While there were residents I had known who no longer survived, there were many more who were thriving through the addition of Feed My Starving Children food and other support from Lord of Life. —Pastor Peter Geisendorfer-Lindgren
10
To learn more about the One Mission One World: Jamaica ministry and their recent mission trip, visit lordoflife.org/jamaica.
May 2017
Older Wiser Lutherans may events Thursday, May 4: Spring Duo with Pastor Joel Wight Hoogheem and David Frank. Pastor Joel will give devotions and share about himself. We will “sing joyfully to the Lord” (Psalm 33:1) old familiar hymns with David Frank leading. He will also share the history of some special hymns. Bring a friend! Freewill donation lunch begins at noon in Fellowship Hall. Wednesday, May 17: Worship at Arbor Lakes at 1 pm and/or Rose Arbor Assisted Living at 2:30 pm. Thursday, May 18: Let’s board a coach bus and journey to Austin, Minnesota, with a full day touring the SPAM® Museum, SPAM® labs, and a tour of Mower County Historical Society. Lunch at Pizza Ranch. Leave church at 8 am, return at 6 pm. Cost is $35 including lunch. Friday, May 26: LifeTIMES labeling in Fellowship Hall at 9:30 am—coffee’s always on and your service is appreciated!
save the date Thursday, June 1: The Synod Senior Band returns to serenade the OWLs at their annual picnic—rain or shine! You will not want to miss the toe-tapping, sing-along fun. Bring a friend; we begin at noon in Fellowship Hall with a freewill donation lunch. Thursday, June 15: Come join in as we travel to Northfield to tour the St. Olaf campus and have lunch at the Ole Store. We will leave Lord of Life at 8:30 am and return at 5 pm. Cost is $30 including lunch.
Hope Lodge
by Joanne Myklebust I feel so blessed that God has chosen me as one of the volunteers for Hope Lodge. I have been praying for a long time that I would find a place where I can help in a small way to assist those who are in need of a bit of sunshine while in a dark place. Lord of Life provides that bit of sunshine by preparing home-cooked meals for cancer patients who are temporarily housed during their medical treatments while miles away from their homes and families. There is the term “comfort” food. Well, the residents express their gratitude for the comfort they find in the anticipation of a home-cooked meal prepared by Lord of Life. It is such a comfort for me to be part of this mission. To meet and mingle with the patients as they enjoy their food. To hear their stories and share the joy of those who have been blessed with a cure. We volunteers go home a bit tired from our efforts, but it is a good tired. We find as much in our participation as the persons receiving our gifts of love. I am blessed. Find a niche that works with your God-given gifts and talents—volunteer opportunities are available at Hope Lodge, visit lordoflife.org/hopelodge.
Questions? Contact Karen Nelson (763.420.5015 x138 or karenn@lordoflife.org), check the bulletin board or lordoflife.org/owls.
Lord of Life Ministries May 2017
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Graduating from high school? Join in Sunday, May 14, during 11 am worship to be congratulated and receive God’s blessings—cake reception in Fellowship Hall afterward.
may schedule
C3 is Confirmation. Christ. Community. for middle school/high school Sundays: May 7 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: May 3, 10 4:30-5:30 pm: C3 groups 5:30-6:30 pm: Family meal 6:30-7:30 pm: C3 groups
Tie Dye Party All 6 graders are invited for an afternoon of fun on May 7, from 12-3 pm. Cost is $10. Bring something you wish to tie dye: shirt, pillowcase, socks … th
Lord of Life Ministries
Bring a friend; please register: lordoflife.org/yearendparty.
12 May 2017
looking for a summer job?
Lord of Life offers an abundance of fun summer ministries to help children and youth grow in their faith. To support summer programming from age three through 12th grade, paid staff opportunities abound to learn, serve, and have a great time! High school graduates and older can apply today at lordoflife.org/summerpdstaff.
confirmation
C3 is a time to come together to wonder and learn more about the Christian faith. It begins in 7th grade and ends in the fall of 10th grade. In order to participate in C3, you must register every year. Please note in August we will be placing new 7th grade students into small groups for the fall, so please register early at lordoflife.org/c3.
A C3 group learns about faith, love, and service—
Tying It All Together
Last summer, Bert Weigel and Stephanie Feller’s confirmation group of nine students made 200 (yes, 200!) fleece tie blankets for the Minnesota Ovarian Cancer Alliance (MOCA). The blankets were added to a gift bag for survivors at their annual fall walk/fundraiser. In preparation for the service project, some MOCA representatives—including a cancer survivor—came and spoke to the girls on what it would mean for those who would be receiving a blanket. At the MOCA walk/fundraiser, the C3 group also worked at the registration booth or handing out blankets. It was heartwarming for them to hear firsthand how meaningful the blankets would be for the survivors or for a family member to receive in memory of a loved one. Why did your group choose this project? Bert explained, “We discussed several projects including making blankets for infants. I mentioned I work with cancer survivors and that another member of our church worked at the University of Minnesota treating patients—one of the U of M doctors introduced us to MOCA leaders.”
Vacation Bible School at Lord of Life is not your typical church VBS. With seven weeks to pick from, you are guaranteed to find something
VBS
that fits your family’s schedule: Preschool/Kindergarten VBS is gearing up for an awesome adventure! This year’s theme is Maker Fun Factory; children discover not only that God made them the way they are—but God has a purpose for them, too. With the help of volunteers, children move station-to-station creating crafts, playing games, singing songs, and learning God’s purpose. Three identical weeks include Bible learning experiences where kids see, hear, touch, and even taste! For children age 3-completed kindergarten: June 19-22, June 26-29, or July 10-13, from 9 am-12 noon. For all 4 & 5 graders— th
th
Year End Bash
May 19, 5-9 pm, $15 Fun and fellowship to end the school year— inflatables, a campfire, photo booth, pizza, and more. Invite a friend! For more info/ registration, visit lordoflife.org/elementary.
Elementary VBS takes fun up a notch! It provides a safe and fun environment to worship, sing, play, and more. This year’s theme focuses on water; VBS campers will play many water games! In addition to Bible studies, worship, and singing—campers will meet new friends and learn from middle/high school volunteers and counselors. For children who have completed kindergarten5th grade: July 17-20, July 24-27, or July 31-August 3, from 9 am-3 pm. New this year—Evening VBS is designed with families in mind! Children age 3–completed 5th grade are invited to get in on the fun to learn about God through activities, games, crafts, and more. Evening VBS is June 26-29 from 6-8 pm, with a family meal available each night from 5-6 pm.
Bert Weigel and Stephanie Feller’s C3 group (left to right): Leah, Ashley, Sierra, Madison, Emily, Natalie, Maddie, Kali (Megan not pictured)
Lord of Life Ministries
Who did this project serve? First, it served cancer survivors and their families. Second, it served the students who learned about the commitment of time and effort involved in volunteering. They now understand that volunteering takes time—but it can be fun and especially if it is important to those whom it serves. Bert shared, “Lastly, this project served as an outreach for Lord of Life, many people asked about the patch and asked what church we went to—it was a lot of fun and rewarding for everyone.”
May 2017 13
Church School May 6/7:
God gives us patience.
May 13/14: God gives us peace. May 20/21: God gives us joy.
Hosanna in the highest!
May 27/28: Summer church school begins! Sundays only—during worship— for children 3 years through 3rd grade. No check-in or registration necessary. Children join families for worship and are excused for summer church school following a brief children’s message in worship. Parent volunteers are a vital part of Lord of Life’s church school ministry. Please contact Kristi (kristis@lordoflife.org), Kelly (kellyr@lordoflife.org), or Neil (neilc@lordoflife.org) to help—thank you!
parents, please note Fall church school registration opens Monday, May 1, at 7 am.
New service project coming this fall with Lutheran World Relief (LWR)—
Project Promise School Kits
We are eager to introduce Project Promise School Kits of LWR as a new fall service project! Please note: This will replace the Operation Christmas Child shoebox project. Church school students will be introduced to the LWR School Kits in mid-October and the entire congregation will be invited to join in the collection of school supplies.
Lord of Life Ministries
ELCA World Hunger works with several partner organizations to address hunger and poverty internationally. Lutheran World Relief is one of those partner organizations. Lutheran World Relief views their work as an expression of faith in action, acting as Christ’s hands in the world by serving people in need without regard for religious affiliation. In 2016, LWR quilts and kits projects served 534,144 people in 16 countries. Amazing! If you would like more information on Lutheran World Relief, please visit lwr.org.
14 May 2017
May Bible Verse: May the God of peace be with you all. Amen. Romans 15:33
Happy May!
by Director Angie Schiebel It is hard to believe the end of preschool is just around the corner. But school isn’t over yet—we have a ton of fun packed into the month of May! Peace Is an Offering by Annette LeBox This book shows children how to find peace in everyday things.
For more information about Karing Kingdom Preschool, contact us at kingdom@ lordoflife.org or call 763.420.5015 x127.
We begin with a trip to Orchestra Hall. This interactive KinderKonzert will highlight the book, The Tin Forest by Helen Ward. Next we will honor our moms with two special celebrations: Moms and Muffins and A Mother’s Day Tea. Our last week of preschool the Maple Grove Fire Department will visit and reward Karing Kingdom for completing the G.L.O.W. (Giving Little Ones Wisdom) program this school year. Student Recognition and Family Night will be held on Thursday, May 18, at 7 pm. We will end the school year with an all-school picnic on Friday, May 19. We are thankful for the wonderful year we have had the privilege of spending with preschool friends and families. We are truly blessed— happy summer!
“Let the little children come unto me,” was the Chapel Chat theme with Pastor Peter in March.
Lord of Life Ministries May 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
Nonprofit US Postage Paid Maple Grove, MN Permit #14
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 © 2017 Lord of Life Lutheran Church
R E T U RN SE RVICE RE Q U E ST E D
caught reading lifetimes Ron and Nancy Svitak in front of a Franciscan church in Remedios, Cuba, east of Havana.
Seventh grade brothers Parker (in red) and Spencer Tabor took a break while volunteering at the First Communion Festival in March.
Kailyn, Brynn, and Anna Armbruster caught reading LifeTIMES in Disneyland.
16 May 2017
Char Wiest, Darcy Pitra, Bev Mello, and Connie Hawes are caught reading LifeTIMES on safari in Uganda—stay tuned to the June issue for a One Mission One World: Uganda article!