November2013final2 by Lord of Life Lutheran Church

LifeTIMES

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

God’s Work. Our Generosity.

Do not store up

enerosity is a way of life. It’s defined by how you approach your family, your work, your finances—everything that you do. Being generous with your time means placing an emphasis on the people and organizations that are meaningful to you, and living that out each day. Being generous with your finances means prioritizing what is important to you and how you will express that through your financial gifts. As Matthew 6:21 says, “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”

for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust

This fall, we’ve asked you to be generous with your time and find at least one way to volunteer at Lord of Life through God’s Work. Our Hands. And you’ve responded! We appreciate all those who have jumped in to increase our number of ministry team leaders with C3 and Church School, to join a worship team, to offer musical gifts through one of the choirs, and the list goes on. Thank you for generously sharing your time and energy!

consume and where thieves break in and steal; but store

While our emphasis on sharing your time at Lord of Life continues throughout this year, we also want to focus on generosity with our financial resources. We are blessed at Lord of Life with amazing members, a dedicated staff, and a multitude of ministries to do God’s Work and to grow in our faith and service to others. In order to maintain excellent programs and move into new ministry areas, we will need both your dedicated time and your financial gifts.

up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where

During the first week of November, you will receive a packet of information that includes a pledge card for 2014. Please read through the information, and prayerfully consider increasing your giving level for next year. As God has so richly blessed each of us, let us generously be a blessing to others. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

neither moth nor rust consumes and where thieves do not break in and

there your heart will be also. —Matthew 6:19-21

Photo by Jenny Rogalski

steal. For where your treasure is,

November 2013

November 2013 “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 2-7

generosity 8

worship Saturdays at 5:30 pm with Holy Communion Sundays at 8:30, 9:45 and 11 am with Holy Communion the first and third Sundays Third Sunday worship at 9:30 am on November 17 at Ambassador Good Samaritan Society in New Hope Third Wednesday worship at 2 pm on November 20 at Rose Arbor Assisted Living in Maple Grove

All Saints November 2/3 Preaching: Pastor Peter Geisendorfer-Lindgren Special Music Saturday: Praise Band Sunday: Joyful Noise (8:30 am), Canticle Choir (9:45 and 11:30 am) Service of Remembrance, November 3 at 7:30 pm

adult children youth family (cyf) 9-11 12-15 contact info 16 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

November 9/10 Preaching: Pastor Peter Geisendorfer-Lindgren Special Music: Honoring veterans with Military Medley during all weekend services Saturday: Praise Band Sunday: Canticle Choir (8:30 and 9:45 am), Bel Canto (all services), Lee Fuchs (11 am) November 16/17 Preaching: Pastor Todd Buegler Special Music Saturday: Praise Band Sunday: New Life Ensemble Christ the King November 23/24 Preaching: Pastor Peter Geisendorfer-Lindgren Special Music Saturday: Praise Band Sunday: Lord of Life Brass and Canticle Choir Thanksgiving Eve Worship, November 27 at 7 pm

More Blessing of the Animals photos on Page 9—

November 30/December 1 Preaching: Pastor Dave McCarty Special Music Saturday: Praise Band Sunday: Jonathan Rundman, soloist See Page 6 for article on special worship services this month. Please note worship & music schedules may be subject to change.

November 2013 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a

spirit

The Tradition of Giving Thanks

all is in the air and winter is on its way. In the middle of this season of change is the Thanksgiving holiday. It seems that there are years when some hearty Minnesotans are considering ice fishing by Thanksgiving and other years when we’re still golfing. But no matter what the weather is like, the tradition of giving thanks doesn’t change.

Thanksgiving is a uniquely American holiday, but giving thanks is not. Lord of Life is a blessing to many people and is the subject of many thank you prayers we never hear. Our benevolence dollars and mission teams touch a huge number of lives and impact people in our own community and across the globe. Pastor Dave McCarty

A few of the many people thanking God for what He’s done through Lord of Life include:

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Anna for the assistance at Homework Help at Maple Hill Estates.

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Craig and Mykal from St. Olaf Lutheran Church in north Minneapolis attended camp this summer (photo below right) and have been wearing the cross necklaces they received ever since.

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In Jamaica, Mooney (at right) is extremely thankful to have moved into the newly completed Cottage Five.

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In the Dominican Republic (photo below left), Victor and Maraya and their children are thankful for a cement floor they can sleep on instead of the dirt/mud one they had before.

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Abia Kimali in Tanzania (center photo below) for support that has made a secondary education possible.

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Ernie and Faye as they move into their house that has been repaired from the floods in Minot, North Dakota.

So, during this time of giving thanks, we also give thanks to God for using us in ways that extend beyond our borders and imagination. Thank you for all you do as a member of the Lord of Life family. —Pastor Dave McCarty

November 2013 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a

spirit

Lord of Life Lives Christ Together baptisms

bereavements

weddings

September 1 Bo Robert Brinkhaus

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

September 13 Lindsay Polkow & Dustin Gardner

September 15 Greysen William Kilburn Hagan Phillips Kilburn Cameron Gregory VanDusen Mckenzie Sophia VanDusen September 21 Hadelyn Elaine Naegle

Charlie Aarons and family at the death of his mother Laurie Ahrens and family at the death of her father Joanne Brown and family at the death of her cousin

September 22 Eden Mae Eastman Levi Luke Ende Aiden Michael Hoellein Taylor Ann Olson Lydia Sharon Reichow Lydia Marie Thompson

Carole Hoel and family at the death of her sister Wayne Horntvedt and family at the death of his mother Ben & Maggie Judkins and family at the death of their son

September 28 Evelyn Jean Bloomquist September 29 Greyson Eli Grages Chase Timothy Joseph Janeksela Cooper Lee Terwey At Lord of Life we baptize individuals at any age. The next baptism class is on Saturday, November 9, from 1011 am; no preregistration is necessary. To schedule a baptism, please call the church office at 763.420.5015.

Mike & Jane Judkins and family at the death of their grandson Julie Korbel and family at the death of her aunt Paul LaGrange and family at the death of his mother Kathleen Nelson and family at the death of her husband Jay & Sue Rice and family at the death of their close friend Sandie Saar and family at the death of her cousin Larry Wadell with Laura & Rachel and family at death of their wife/mother

Easter in October? This lily was blooming alongside our Prayer Path on October 17.

September 14 Jennifer Erickson & Joe Moore September 20 Lindsey Niesen & James Lindquist September 21 Alicia Lester & Michael Asmussen Hillary Larson & Dustin Otto September 28 Lauren Charboneau & Aaron Svitak Mary Depuydt & Cody Cooper

welcome new members Mike & Kris Anderson Donna Bauer with Nick Don & Lois Jeronimus Ruth Kraemer Michelle Rickard with Ella and Gavin Membership at Lord of Life means you make a commitment to be an active participant in congregational life. The expectation of not only new members— but all members—is to worship regularly, grow in faith, serve others, and support the church & its programs financially. Contact Lori Schwartz or Karen Klevar or visit lordoflife.org/ newmembers for more information. You are invited to become a part of the Lord of Life family of faith.

Would you like to share an original photo or artwork or poetry or a God moment with your Lord of Life faith family? We would love to share it in a future issue as space allows; you are encouraged to contact LifeTIMES Editor Bev Mello at bevm@lordoflife.org. Thank you.

November 2013 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a

True Happiness

spirit

by Michelle Welinski

ave you seen the posts on Facebook that ask you to “click on the picture and watch what happens?” I tried it once. Nothing happened. Go figure…Isn’t that what the evil one does to us in our lives? He gives us empty promises and in our desperation to find relief or hope, we buy into them and then are left feeling empty. In Celebrate Recovery we learn that true happiness comes from the Father. The 8 Recovery Principles of Celebrate Recovery are founded on the Beatitudes in Matthew 5. This is where we learn, “Happy are those who know they are spiritually poor” and “Happy are the peacemakers.” This is the kind of happiness that does not require us to click on a picture or have an outside circumstance happen. If you are searching for happiness in all the wrong places, or in other words, buying into the devil’s empty promises, try something different. Turn to the Father. His way is so much more rewarding.

Reflections of Faith

ord of Life is excited to announce a special space recently opened in the Caring Community area of our building. Reflections of Faith offers items that are reflective of our faith such as books, Bibles, jewelry, inspirational signs, greeting cards, and more. There will be a variety of artistic items such as magnets, bookmarks, and hand-painted rocks available for purchase. Prayer shawls will also be available from this space, however, please note that Lord of Life’s prayer shawls are not for sale; rather they are available as a special Lord of Life ministry to those in need of God’s loving embrace. As this is a new and exciting opportunity, hours of operation may be fluid to begin with. The area will be open before and after worship services and daytime hours MondayThursday. Come in and browse and see what’s reflective of your faith.

In this season for giving thanks, I am so thankful for the truthful promises of a loving Father. I am thankful for the love and hope that only He can provide. I am thankful for a God of second and third and more chances. I am thankful for a room full of people who accept me as I am and walk beside me each and every week at Celebrate Recovery.

marriage ministry

If you are working hard on your own to find relief and hope, come to Celebrate Recovery on Tuesday nights. Dinner starts at 5:45 pm with programming at 6:30 pm. Childcare is provided. You’ll be thankful you came! Questions about Celebrate Recovery, please contact Michelle Welinski at michellew@lordoflife.org or 763.420.5015 x118.

breakfast is served! Join us for breakfast on Sunday, November 17, from 9 am12:30 pm in Fellowship Hall. Egg bake and a pancake bar are just a few of the items on the menu. The participants of Celebrate Recovery look forward to serving you!

This Credo Designs greeting card will be one of many available soon in Lord of Life’s new faith-based resource/ gift area, Reflections of Faith. The inside message of this card reads, “YOU are precious in His sight.”

November 2013 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a

This new ministry formed following last year’s L5 Marriage course and is focused on continuing education for couples. They are preparing to offer some classes beginning in January and are also looking for couples to start a social event committee. Please join us for the next meeting on November 6, at 7:30 pm. If you would like to get involved in the Marriage Ministry or have questions, please contact Jane Bergstrom at 763.420.5015, x142.

spirit

Grief Share welcomes you on Tuesdays—

Surviving the Holidays

n past years, the Christmas holiday season may have been a time of great anticipation and excitement…but this year, the prospect of facing the holidays without your loved one may cause anxiety and dread. For those experiencing a loss, October through December can be excruciatingly painful months. Death, separation, divorce, illness, family trauma, job loss or moving to a new location result in great losses that make the holidays difficult.

Always in our hearts...And with us in Spirit — this is just one of the items available in Reflections of Faith; see article on Page 5.

November Worship

all saints’ service of remembrance Each year on the first weekend of November we remember all the saints who have gone before us, both those known to all the church and those known only to us and our families. On this All Saints weekend, we offer prayers during our regular worship services for all the members of our church family who have died in the past year. We also offer a special opportunity for reflection at our Service of Remembrance on Sunday, November 3, at 7:30 pm. Everyone is invited to attend this special service in remembrance of loved ones.

You are not alone. Grief Share helps you discover practical, stress-reducing ideas that will help you face the holiday season and connect with support, encouragement, and advice to survive the holidays. Grief Share meets every Tuesday night 6:30-8:30 pm with a special focus on surviving the holidays starting in November. Please contact Pastor Karen Sue Greimel or Rae Morgan (763.425.7275) with questions.

thanksgiving eve service Members and friends of Lord of Life are invited to a Thanksgiving Eve Service at Lord of Life at 7 pm on Wednesday, November 27. Preaching will be Jared Freeberg and music will be provided by the Canticle Choir.

advent The four-week season of Advent begins with the weekend of November 30-December 1.

seasons of the church The month of November includes several season changes. The month begins with All Saints, when we remember all of the saints who have gone before us; the color for this week is white. Then there are two weeks in the season after Pentecost, which began early in the summer, and we return to the color green in the church. On November 23/24 we observe Christ the King, the last weekend of the church year, and a time when we look forward to the coming Kingdom of God. White is used in the church on this weekend as a symbol of Christ’s purity. Finally, the color blue, indicating hope, will be seen in the church on November 30 and December 1, the first weekend of Advent.

ord of Life’s LifeGARDEN harvest numbers are in! The growing season started off a little slow this year yet finished strong. LifeGARDEN’s 2013 harvest of 11,428 pounds surpassed 2012 at 10,084 pounds—an increase of 1,763 pounds. The executive director of CROSS, Elizabeth Johnson, shares, “Our families love the basics of onions, potatatoes, carrots, and tomatoes.” Thank you to all who have been involved with LifeGARDEN in providing fresh produce for our local foodshelf, another example of God’s Work. Our Hands.

—Alice Woodard, Director of Worship and LifeGARDEN

November 2013 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a

First ELCA Bishop Shares Insights

spirit

by Suzie Olson

he Rev. Herbert Chilstrom, first presiding bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, shared reflections of his ministry with Word for Women on September 18. From touching memories of his brother’s boundless faith while dying of cancer, to a firsthand recounting of the Lutheran church over 40 years of ministry, Chilstrom was a thought-provoking speaker. “We are not bound together by our differences, but by our unity,” Chilstrom said in response to the various controversies in the Lutheran church over the years. “The glue that holds us together is not our differences. The glue that holds our church together is the birth, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.”

Bishop Chilstrom signed copies of the devotional, Every Morning New, which he co-wrote with his wife, Rev. Corinne Chilstrom, and his autobiography, A Journey of Grace.

Word for Women meets Wednesdays from 9:30-11 am in Fellowship Hall. All are welcome. For more information, visit lordoflife.org/wordforwomen.

L5 Session 2 began on October 27 and it’s not too late to take part! There are classes specifically for men only and women only who are in the second half of life; learn what it means to be a member of Lord of Life; explore what spiritual gift(s) you have been given; take a Bible study or learn how your attachment style influences your relationship with God. Visit the webpage lordoflife.org/L5 and look deeper into the amazing offerings for Session 2; you will be glad you did!

Thanks to everyone who volunteered at and participated in the Community Health Fair sponsored by Faithfully FIT at Lord of Life on October 5. Workshops and flu shots, healthy snacks and fellowship, bloodmobile and teaching sessions— there was something for everyone!

November 2013 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a

september 2013 budget year-to-date

generosity

Actual

Budget

Difference

Total member contributions $2,144,185 $2,120,521 All other Total receipts

$23,664

$189,040 $206,394 ($17,354) $2,333,225 $2,326,915

$6,310

God’s Work. Our Generosity.

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about the God’s Work. Our Generosity. campaign: Why should I complete a God’s Work. Our Generosity. campaign pledge? Lord of Life prepares the operating budget for the upcoming year during the final quarter of this year. The budget includes staff, operational costs, ministry programs, benevolence, etc. The budget is based in part on the pledges that are received. The larger the number of pledges received, the more accurate the budget will be. What is the time period for the pledge? The pledge is for January 1 through December 31, 2014. When will the God’s Work. Our Generosity. information arrive? A packet of information and a pledge card will be mailed November 4. If you do not receive a packet by November 18, please contact the church office to request one. How should pledges be returned? Please return pledge cards to church or if you prefer, complete the online pledge form at lordoflife.org/generosity. How does direct debit giving work? Pledges may be automatically deducted from your checking or savings account on the 15th and/or month-end. Sign up for this opportunity at lordoflife.org/directdebit. Information about direct debit giving will also be in the packet. Direct debit giving greatly helps Lord of Life to manage cash flow throughout the year. What about the Campus Development Campaign pledges? Pledges to the Campus Development Campaign (for the completed building expansion) began in May 2011 and will be completed on April 30, 2014. That is a separate fund from our General Fund. If you have additional questions, please contact Sandie Saar in the finance department at sandie@lordoflife.org or 763.420.5015 x101. Thank you for your continued support of Lord of Life!

Lord of Life Weekly Giving — September 2013 $90,000 $80,000 $70,000 $60,000 $50,000 $40,000 $30,000 $20,000 $10,000 $0 9/1 9/8 9/15 9/22 9/25

Actual $48,149 $87,086 $68,725 $48,623 $44,316 Budget $59,850 $59,850 $59,850 $59,850 $59,850

November 2013 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a

adult

Be thou comforted, little dog, Thou too in Resurrection shall have a little golden tail. —Martin Luther

Blessing of the Animals

ogs, cats, a hamster, and a bunny named Bazinga were all given a special blessing by Pastor Peter or Pastor Dave on October 6. Although the weather was drizzly, there was a great turnout of pets and their people. A special thank you to the Creation Care Team for their sponsorship of this event.

adopt-a-park clean-up november 3

reminder

Emergency Foodshelf Network second annual healthy food drive

hrough your generosity last year, our EFN food drive was a huge success. We hope to be able to match or increase the amount we collected last year. Bring your healthy, non-perishable food items to Lord of Life between November 2-17. EFN containers will be located in the Service Center (north side of the church) for your food donations. These donations will help stock the shelves of the local foodshelves. Bring a bag full or just a few items. No donation is too small—every item helps! Please, no glass containers. Visit lordoflife.org/efn if you need suggestions or more information.

As announced last month, Lord of Life is looking for volunteers to assist in the fall clean up of our adopted Maple Grove park. This family-friendly event will be November 3 from 1-2 pm at South Elm Road Neighborhood Park. Please sign up in advance on the hallway bulletin board for this Creation Care Teamsponsored event. It’s another opportunity for ‘God’s Work. Our Hands.’ For more information about Lord of Life’s Creation Care Team, please visit lordoflife.org/ creationcare.

fare for all Lord of Life is a Fare For All location, where everyone looking for a way to stretch their grocery bill is welcome—regardless of income. Save up to 40% off on packs of fresh fruits, vegetables, and frozen meat. The Emergency Foodshelf Network (EFN) passes on their bulk savings by purchasing from wholesalers—the same place grocery stores get their food. By purchasing these packs of produce or meat at a Fare For All, we are helping them to have increased buying power for their support of local foodshelves. Generally held one Thursday a month, Fare For All is from 4-6 pm. Cash, credit/debit cards, and EBT cards are accepted. Special note: October 31 from 4-6 pm is the next Fare For All; and after that the next Fare For All is on December 12.

be a part of the solution The next monthly opportunity to sort or pack food is Monday, November 4, from 4-7 pm. EFN is at 8501 54th Avenue North in New Hope. To sign up visit lordoflife.org/efn or contact Jane Bergstom. Questions on any of these events with EFN? Contact Jane Bergstrom by phone at 763.420.5015 x142 or email at janeb@lordoflife.org. November 2013 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a

rove Press -Maple G o e ss O sy Courte

adult

Featured in the Fall 2013 Delivering On Our Promise publication of Maple Grove Hospital, Lord of Lifers (and active OWLs) Bob & Sandy Munson were on the cover and in a special article. Congratulations!

Upcoming OWLs Events

Thursday, November 7: “Travel to the Dominican Republic with Pastor Dave McCarty.” Faith, Food, and Fellowship begins at 10 am in Fellowship Hall.

From the 2012 Christmas Party, these OWLs enjoyed all the festivities and encourage you to ‘save the date’ for this year’s holiday party on December 5 (details at left)!

Wednesday, November 20: Worship at Rose Arbor beginning at 2 pm Thursday, November 21: Cedarhurst Mansion Tour and 9-course tea. This event is full—please pay in front office to hold your spot. Contact Karen Nelson to be put on the waiting list. Leave church at 10 am and return by 3:30 pm. The all-inclusive event is $35. Friday, November 22: LifeTIMES labeling in Fellowship Hall at 9:30 am

save the dates Thursday, December 5: “Journey to Bethlehem” with guest author Dr. Chuck Tindell. Dr. Tindell received the National Mature Media’s coveted Gold Award for his first book, Seeing Beyond the Wrinkles. In addition, he has written mysteries such as This Angel’s Halo is Crooked. With Pastor Peter leading us in devotions and Tom Tipton singing carols, you and your friends will not want to miss the party. We begin at noon in Fellowship Hall with a freewill donation lunch. Please bring a donation of mittens and/or scarves. Thursday, December 19: Tour the National Historic Landmark…the James J. Hill Mansion in St. Paul. Mr. Hill was the founder of the Great Northern Railway. The tour will give us a glimpse of servant and family life in the mansion. Leave church at 9 am and return by 2 pm. Cost is $11 plus lunch on your own.

...older, wiser, or Lutheran? Even if you are not, you will be warmly welcomed at all of the OWLs’ events. Please sign up for all activities on the bulletin board near the welcome desk in the narthex. Visit lordoflife.org/owls for more photos as well as stories of recent events. Questions about this vibrant seniors’ ministry? Contact Joyce or Gordy Martin directly at grjsmartin@embarqmail.com or 763.497.7355.

November 2013 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a

adult attention all veterans

Veteran’s Day Nov. 9/10 recognition during worship services and Nov. 15 dinner

ord of Life’s Military Family Support Ministry would like to invite all veterans and a guest to our 4th Annual Veteran’s Day Dinner to be held at Lord of Life on Friday, November 15, from 6-9 pm. This dinner is our opportunity to spend an evening honoring those who have given so much to their country and to enjoy fellowship with veterans from World War II to present day. Please contact Jane Bergstrom at 763.420.5015 or janeb@lordoflife.org to let us know you will be attending.

US Army David Anderson and US Navy Ken Lyons (above) and (below) three generations of US Navy: Laura Cloose, Wayne Wolden, and Linda Jensen

boy scout serving soldier

Sam Carrol serving US Army veteran Dave Stichter

Also, all veterans will once again be recognized with a musical medley performed by David Frank on piano and Lord of Life’s Canticle Choir during all worship services on Saturday, November 9 (5:30 pm), and Sunday, November 10 (8:30, 9:45, 11 am). No registration is required for this event; please join us during one of these weekend worship services so all of Lord of Life will have an opportunity to extend their gratitude to you for your selfless service to our country.

soldier serving soldier

Active-duty US Army Major Sherry Stenerson serving veteran US Army Chaplain Colonel Jim Almquist and his wife Bev

2012 Veteran’s Day Dinner Honoring forty veterans/active duty from World War II to present day

November 2013 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a

sr. high ski/snowboard retreat

jr. high family ski retreat

Let’s have some fun in the snow at Afton Alps! Save the date—families are welcome to come ski/ snowboard all day on February 15, 2014. Don’t miss out! Registration opens November 1. Visit lordoflife. org/juniorhighskiretreat for more info and to register.

2013 Junior High

Save the date for the Sr. High Ski Retreat! We’ll spend three full days over President’s Weekend skiing/snowboarding at Bridger Bowl and Big Sky in Bozeman, Montana. The dates are February 13-17, 2014. Registration opens November 1. More info is at lordoflife.org/shskiretreat.

2013 Senior High

children youth family

junior high

C3 Sundays on November 3, 10, 17 5-6 pm: Pizza Plus! 6-7 pm: C3 Groups and L5 7-7:45 pm: Ecclesia Worship 7:45-8:45 pm: Explore

sr. high leadership network

Hey sr. high leaders—this is for you! Join us on Sunday, November 3, at 5 pm for our monthly gathering where we share a meal, checkin, and work on a leadership skill. More Sr. High Sundays! info at lordoflife.org/ Every Sunday night, sr. highers gather for shleadershipnetwork. worship, and community at church. All Questions? Contact are welcome! More info is at lordoflife.org/ srhighsunday. Elizabeth.

C3 Wednesdays on November 6, 13, 20 4:30-5:30 pm: C3 Groups 5:30-6:30 pm: Pizza Plus! 6:30-7:30 pm: C3 Groups and L5 C3 Leaders’ Huddle is Wednesday, November 6, at 5:30 pm and includes dinner. We will gather all the leaders together for training and conversations about how things are going. It is a great night for us all to touch base, share stories, get to know each other, support and be supported, and learn a few things, too. We hope to see you all there!

7 pm—Ecclesia worship in Samaritan Hall 7:45 pm—Express sr. high youth group

C3 Saturday Retreat for 7th-9th graders! Need to attend a retreat? November 23 is your time! During the day we will spend time in worship, small group Bible study, playing games, building relationships, doing service work and having fun the whole time. Lunch and dinner are provided. We finish off the night at 5:30 pm. Families are encouraged to attend 5:30 pm Saturday night worship for their C3er to get a worship note. Register online at lordoflife.org/C3retreats.

Sundays nights @ 7 pm

7-8:30 pm Sundays November Explore dates are 3, 10, 17

children youth family (cyf) Amanda Clancy (“Clancy”), Middle School, x106, amandac@lordoflife.org Kirstin Delp, Early Childhood and Childcare, x113, kirstind@lordoflife.org Raul Garcia III, AiM, Confirmation (C3) and Grades 7-9, x121, raul@lordoflife.org Julie Wilson, AiM, Grades 1-4, x129, juliew@lordoflife.org Heather Hjelmstad, Ministry of Inclusion, x143, heatherh@lordoflife.org Lynn Leisen, Faith in the Home, x107, lynnl@lordoflife.org Elizabeth Pedersen, Grades 10-12, x130, elizabethp@lordoflife.org Kim Pietrzak, Childcare, x124, kimp@lordoflife.org Pennie Soppeland, CYF Support, x132, pennies@lordoflife.org Debbie Zaic, CYF Office Manager and Registrar, x128, debz@lordoflife.org

©iStock

Come check out Explore and come hang out. It’s a fun time with worship and games and just exploring our faith together.

November 2013 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a

Courtesy of Samaritan’s Purse

children youth family helping kids cope with living in a violent world

Every shoebox offers an opportunity to share the Good News of Jesus Christ with a hurting child. —Franklin Graham

Operation Christmas Child

It’s fun and easy to do God’s work with our hands! Here’s how: 1. Find a shoebox—any shoebox will do! 2. Choose a boy or girl label from the brochure, check the age category and tape it to the box. 3. Fill the box with gifts like toys, school supplies, hygiene items, etc. (Read the brochure for more ideas.) You can even add your photo and a note. 4. Include $7 donation per box. This can be done online and you will discover where your box lands! 5. Place a rubber band around your box (NO TAPE) and drop it off at church no later than November 20. Operation Christmas Child demonstrates God’s love to hurting children in a tangible way by partnering with churches worldwide to deliver gift-filled shoeboxes and the Good News of Jesus Christ.

Join other parents and children as we talk about the violence in media, our community, and around the world. This event takes place at Lord of Life on Sunday, November 3, from 3:30-5 pm. Optional Pizza Plus! dinner (pizza and salad at $3 per person) will be served from 5-6 pm. Signing up ahead of time at lordoflife.org/gff will help us have enough food for all. Thank you.

club 56

Save the date! Saturday, December 7, 9 am-4 pm, we’ll see a theater production of Llama Llama Holiday Drama by Stages Theater Company PLUS take our own acting class from professionals! Cost is $18 which includes production ticket, acting classes, lunch and transportation.

Parent Night Out

NO is Friday, November 1, from 6-10 pm for all children and their families, birth-6th grade. This is an opportunity for parents to have a night out with safe childcare provided for their children. Our theme this month is “Hay Day” where we will learn about growing in friendship with Jesus. We will split into age groups and rotate through projects with a purpose, Bible adventures, and hog-wild games! Please note that a light snack is provided and dinner will not be served. Parents are invited to drop in early for complimentary dessert and coffee, served from 9-10 pm. Your generous donations (suggested minimum of $10 per child) will help benefit Lord of Life’s Adult Ministries and AWOL Senior High Mission Trips. Please register at lordoflife.org/pno.

Thirty-five children and their parents celebrated the faith milestone of beginning twoyear-old Church School classes. The children received their own storybook Bibles.

November 2013 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a

children youth family

November Bible Verse: “It is good to give thanks to the Lord.” Psalm 92:1

Happy November!

by Angie Schiebel, Director of Karing Kingdom Preschool

H November Book Pick

Give Thanks for Each Day by Steven Metzger Celebrate every day the things that fill the world with joy and that give us so many reasons to be thankful.

appy November! And welcome to another funfilled month at Karing Kingdom Preschool! We begin November with “R” is for Reading. Celebrating our favorite books! We will be having an Usborne Book Fair on November 6 and 7, with the proceeds in the form of books going to The Ronald McDonald House. Next it’s “G” is for Grocery Store where we will explore aisle-by-aisle this wonderland of food. Last but surely not least it’s “T” is for Thanksgiving. During this week we will discover the origin of this most significant holiday. We cap off the week with a traditional Thanksgiving feast, yes, it’s turkey and all the trimmings! Fall conferences will be held Monday, November 25 and Tuesday, November 26. Karing Kingdom Preschool will be closed November 27-29 for the Thanksgiving holiday.

Karing Kingdom Preschool continues to take registration for the 2013-14 school year. For more information, please call 763.420.5015 x127 or email us at kingdom@ lordoflife.org. karing kingdom preschool Angie Schiebel, Director, x127, kingdom@lordoflife.org Teachers: Jennifer Ellingson, Maureen Murphy Hanson, and Carly Tappe

The Teddy Bear Band brought smiles and excitement to everyone—well, almost everyone. :)

November 2013 “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

into instagram? ®

awesome—see info below

1978 Lord of Life Lutheran Church Charter (ELCA) Lord of Life is a community

God’s Work. Our Hands. Hundreds of volunteers make

of people called together by God’s Holy Spirit who confess Christ as Lord. We wish to be a church whose door is open

our congregation what it is,

to all people. And with the

using their hands to do God’s

guidance of the Holy Spirit

work. Here’s Barb Mewaldt harvesting carrots in LifeGARDEN. Here’s a member of Word for Women helping sort

we will strive to educate, comfort, aid and spread the word of love in Christ’s name. We believe worship is of most importance in our

baby outfits for the Lutheran

life together as we receive

Social Service clothing sale. And

God’s love through Word

here’s Club 56 youth packing food at Feed My Starving Children. See more and post your hands doing God’s work on Instagram® using

#lolgodsworkourhands.

and Sacrament. We will be involved with seeking justice in our community, state, nation, and world. We hold high the dignity and worth of every human being as created in God’s image and forgiven in Christ. We hope to be a serving church, in the name of Him who came as Servant of all.

November 2013 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a

Nonprofit US Postage Paid Maple Grove, MN

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

Permit #14

LifeTIMES is a monthly ministry of Lord of Life Lutheran Church (ELCA) printed by Wallace Carlson using ecofriendly inks. To receive LifeTIMES in the mail or electronically—call 763.420.5015 or stop in the main church office or email office@lordoflife.org with your name and address. We invite you to share faith stories, Lord of Life ministry events, photos, poetry & artwork. Submissions may be edited. The deadline for the December issue is November 1. Copyright 2013 Lord of Life Lutheran Church

caught reading lifetimes

Caught reading LifeTIMES during the Celebrate Recovery Conference at Saddleback Church in Lake Forest, CA

At the Ring of Brodgar Kirwall on one of the Orkney Islands of Scotland, Deborah Sweeney is caught reading LifeTIMES

Front row (left to right): Nora Houser, Kay Mourer, Linda Zwick, Mary Krogsgaard Back row (left to right): Levi Jarvi, Michelle Welinski, Milica Kingsbury, Don Clark

Mary Ann & Paul Schumacher in Barcelona, Spain at the Sagrada Familia Basilica

November 2013 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a