A monthly ministry of Lord of Life Lutheran Church of Maple Grove, Minnesota
LifeTIMES
Because of God’s Great Mercy
by Pastor Chick Lane ord of Life Lutheran Church is not your typical Lutheran congregation. Each week approximately 1500 people gather for worship. Worship is just the beginning of the ministry of Lord of Life. Ministry happens in Church School, where over 1100 children are registered. It happens in L5 adult education courses. It happens during the week as many, many members live out their faith in the world, helping others in Jesus’ name. Lord of Life members are very committed to providing for those who live on the margins of society and those broken by life’s circumstances.
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During November, the congregation is going to focus on how our giving to the congregation is an important part of our Christian faith, and how the congregation uses our offerings to do God’s work within the congregation’s walls, in the Twin Cities, and around the world. Our focus will begin by considering all that God has done for us, hence the title, Because of God’s Great Mercy. We will also consider how generous giving is an important part of every Christian’s life, and how our combined generosity can make even greater things possible at Lord of Life. Because of God’s Great Mercy will ask you to do two things. First, you will be asked to increase your giving to Lord of Life by at least ½ of 1% of your household income. Second, you will be asked to consider using the direct debit program that our congregation already has in place for your giving. Because of God’s Great Mercy will use mail, email, and time in worship to share information with you. Please make a special effort to watch for material during this important time in our congregation’s life. LOL
November 2014
“For me to live is Christ”
Philippians 1:21a
November 2014
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 WEB lordoflife.org PHONE 763.420.5015 FAX 763.420.7286 ADDRESS 7401 County Road 101, Maple Grove, MN 55311-4313 Visit lordoflife.org/lolstaff for a full staff listing with photos. PRAYER NETWORK prayernetwork@lordoflife.org FACEBOOK facebook.com/lordoflifelutheran
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 STAFF 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 CONTENTS Worship Schedule / Pastor’s Message...............................................Pages 2-3 Lord of Life Lives Christ Together....................................................Pages 4-5 L5 Session 2 Classes / December Forum...............................................Page 6 An Invitation to All Veterans..................................................................Page 7 Generosity / Older Wiser Lutherans (OWLs).........................................Page 8 Lord of Life Ministries.....................................................................Pages 9-14 Karing Kingdom Preschool....................................................................Page 15 Caught Reading LifeTIMES....................................................................Page 16 From the 2B REAL Men racecar event are (left to right) Kaiden, Gretchen, and Jill Pickett checking out the inside of a racecar—more photos at lordoflife.org/realmen!
Sunday evening is Ecclesia worship at 7 pm
Sunday, November 2 Service of Remembrance in Sanctuary with Pastor Karen Sue Greimel (see more information on Page 5) Third Sunday worship on November 16 at 10 am at Ambassador - Good Samaritan Society in New Hope Wednesday, November 19, worship service 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, directly after Saturday worship, November 22, in Lord of Life’s Prayer Chapel November 1/2 Preaching: Pastor Karen Geisendorfer-Lindgren Special Music Saturday: Praise Band Sunday: Joyful Noise (8:30 am), Canticle Choir (9:45 and 11 am) November 8/9 Preaching: Pastor Chick Lane Special Music: Veterans Recognition Military Medley at all weekend services Saturday: Praise Band Sunday: Canticle Choir (8:30 and 9:45 am), Soloist Kari Lyn Wampler (11 am), Bel Canto (all three services) November 15/16 Preaching: Pastor Peter Geisendorfer-Lindgren Special Music Saturday: Praise Band Sunday: New Life Ensemble November 22/23 Preaching: Pastor Peter Geisendorfer-Lindgren Special Music Saturday: Praise Band Sunday: to be announced (8:30 am), Canticle Choir (9:45 and 11 am)
table of contents / worship schedule
November 26 at 7 pm, Thanksgiving Eve Preaching: Pastoral Intern Taylor Wilson
2 November 2014 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a
November 29/30 Preaching: Pastor Sarah Bunge Special Music Saturday: Praise Band Sunday: to be announced Please note worship and music schedules may be subject to change.
Manna from Heaven by Pastor David McCarty
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he 16th chapter of Exodus finds the Israelites freed from slavery but not yet in the Promised Land. No longer captive to Pharaoh but not “home” yet either. They’re in that in-between-time we can relate to. As baptized believers we are redeemed children of God, freed from the power of sin, but still living and working in a sinful world. Like the Israelites in the wilderness, we may find ourselves at times searching for things that are life-giving and life-fulfilling; and like the Israelites, God provides. In the case of the Israelites, God provided everything they needed in the form of manna from heaven.
While the Israelites wandered the wilderness God provided all they needed, and as we wander our wilderness—in between slavery and the Promised Land of heaven—God provides all that we need. The question is, do we believe it? As baptized believers we hold on to the promise of eternal life and we thank God for it. Clearly eternal life is something we can’t obtain on our own—no amount of higher education or corporate ladder climbing will get us there! But how about our daily bread, our “manna,” our “stuff?” If you read the 16th chapter of Exodus you will see the Israelites learned the hard way that God was the sole provider of all they had and needed; and at times some of us learn the hard way that God is the sole provider of what we need and what we have (our “stuff ”).
happy thanksgiving
Thanksgiving blessings to all! A special worship service will be on Wednesday, November 26, at 7 pm; Pastoral Intern Taylor Wilson will be preaching.
However, our children know that God provides all we have and they are thankful for that. The adjacent picture shows a tree of thank you’s from our 1st-4th grade Church School students. They’ve listed their “manna” from heaven and have given thanks to God. Our children believe and respond as their parents have taught them by saying, thank you! What a great example to follow as we enter into this holiday season. Thanking God for ALL we have and all we need. Thanking God for our “manna.” LOL —Pastor Dave
pastor’s message
Lord of Life’s Church School grades 1-4 kids created this vibrant tree of gratitude.
“For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a November 2014 3
Lord of Life Lives Christ Together baptisms
bereavements
weddings
September 6 Kylee Elizabeth Koski
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 6 Anastasia Galka & Josh Briggs Maria Ledin & K. C. Johnson
September 7 Austin Allen Jensen Amelia Renee Jensen Juliana Lu Phad
Sherlyn Anderson and family at the death of her mother
September 13 Amanda Roehrich & Tony DeBoer September 20 Amanda Larkin & Scott Elmgren
September 13 Rylan Nicholas Paulinski
Mike Andreen and family at the death of his mother
September 14 Morgan Mckenzie Hanna Brock Lomax Buske
Dee and Doug Ascher and family at the death of their son and brother
September 27 Stefanie Harner & Dale Novak Candice Hiller & Riley Slimmer
Jody Forster and family at the death of her father
welcome new members
September 20 Harper Rose Charboneau September 21 Eli Benjamin Arneson Everett Dahn Carlton Benjamin Thomas Flikke Hendricks Timothy Liskiewicz Charles Steven Rue September 27 Ayla Rae Peterson Katherine Anne Tofte Aiden Allen Winberg September 28 Amelia Michelle Feehan Spencer Hunter Frane Evan James McGarry Parker John Sophaphanh Tanya Lynn Specht
Lord of Life Lives Christ Together
At Lord of Life, we baptize individuals at any age. The next baptism class is Saturday, November 8, from 1011 am; no pregistration is necessary. To schedule a baptism, please call the church office (763.420.5015).
4 November 2014 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a
Cindy Guadagno and family at the death of her mother
Beau & Lauren Davis with Liam
Anna Harlan and family at the death of her friend
Durk Peterson
Glory Kozicky and family at the death of her mother Rae Morgan and family at the death of her mother Janet, Shayrae, Tyresha Nolden and family at the death of their husband and father Angela Pautz and family at the death of her sister Marty Sager and family at the death of his sister Jake & Melissa Vogel and family at the death of their infant son
Bradley Hum James & Kayla Scherber with Adria, Alek, and Aydin Erik & Sarah Sill Rob Treptau 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. LOL
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Service of Remembrance Sunday, November 2, at 7:30 pm
a night to remember All are invited to the Service of Remembrance on Sunday, November 2, at 7:30 pm. Whether you have lost a loved one days, weeks, or years ago, you are invited to attend this service. Pastor Karen Sue Greimel will preach. Beautiful music, candles, communion, and a message of hope will fill the sanctuary. Childcare will be provided. Come to be comforted, strengthened, and empowered by the word of God and the promise of resurrection. If there are any questions about the service, please contact Michelle Welinski at michellew@lordoflife.org.
word for women
Thank you to Constance Crawford for her poem below. She shares, “When this was written I was very alone and could not converse with anyone. Being still and listening to my Lord I found great comfort in words. It helped me to grow and not ever be alone.” God’s blessings to you, Constance, in new journeys ahead.
Love Languages…have you ever done an act of kindness for a friend or family member and your ‘gift’ was not received in the way you were hoping? That is because we each have a different love language. Discover what your love language is and that it is never too late to learn the love language of those you care about. Love Languages will be a five-week study from November 5-December 10. This short session is a great way to try out Word for Women— there is a group just waiting for you to join. Books may be purchased in Reflections of Faith. Word for Women meets Wednesday mornings from 9:30-11 am and childcare is provided.
Him
—Constance Crawford
Lord of Life Lives Christ Together
There is a special person, with a voice who is within me, as my choice. He has been with me oh so very long, whether I am doing right or wrong. He helps me with life each and every day, but I do not always heed what He has to say. Just as He does not answer each and every whim. that is why we talk things over, me myself and Him. You do not learn it from the start, but you learn it from the heart. No matter what road you want to travel, without Him it will unravel. We do not have to stay in the past, there are parts we surely can cast. We can always take time to begin again, so talk things over, just you and Him.
“For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a November 2014 5
Authority of the Scripture Dr. Walter Sundberg
ONE-SHOT FORUM
Sunday, December 7
Identical Sessions at 9:45 and 11 am
At the time of the Reformation, Martin Luther proclaimed that the Bible is the sole authority of faith and that its meaning is plain to the common person. If the church teaches something that is contrary to the Bible or cannot be found in the Bible, then the church is wrong and the people have a right to protest. This was a bold teaching, giving rise to “Protestants” against the Roman Church. How do we understand the authority of scripture today? How do we discern what plain teaching is? Even Protestants have disagreed over its meaning. This forum will examine these questions and seek to explain the basic approach that the Lutheran church has taught over the centuries.
SESSION 2
Week of October 26-Week of November 23 SUNDAY
8:30 am LIFE LONG LEARNING AT LORD OF LIFE
For class descriptions and to register, visit lordoflife.org/L5 or pick up more details and a registration form at church in the main hallway at the L5 bulletin board. We are happy to be able to offer L5 classes and Forums free of charge. Individual classes may be using books that will be available for purchase by participants.
Wiser Women: God’s Power in Living the Second Half of Life on Purpose Joan Freeberg 9:45 am Judges, Generals & Leadership Pastor Donna Rohrer 11 am Prayer School Pastor Karen Sue Greimel Larry & Cynthia Pivec
Discover the Bible Renae Larson
6 pm Sex, Drugs, and Rock ’n Roll - Hot Topics for Parents of Teens Pastor Sarah Bunge along with a panel of Children, Youth & Family (CYF) staff MONDAY AT 7 PM
Judges, Generals & Leadership Pastor Donna Rohrer TUESDAY AT 6:45 PM
Forgiveness: A Pathway to Freedom Pastor David Lippitt Holy Spirit, Holy Ghost, Holy Guacomole! Pastor Donna Rohrer
L5 Session 2 Classes / December Forum
Holy Spirit, Holy Ghost, Holy Guacamole! Pastor Donna Rohrer
Marriage Course 2 Pastor Karen Geisendorfer-Lindgren and Pastor Peter Geisendorfer-Lindgren (this 10-week course continues from Session 1)
WEDNESDAY AT 6:30 PM
Parenting Teens 2 Karen Nelson (this 10-week course continues from Session 1)
6 November 2014 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a
A Bible Story: As You Like It Ina Barton
From Lord of Life’s Military Family Support Ministry—
An Invitation For All Veterans friday, november 14, 5:30 pm
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n November 1919, President Wilson proclaimed November 11 as Armistice Day with the following words: To us in America, the reflections of Armistice Day will be filled with solemn pride in the heroism of those who died in the country’s service and with gratitude for the victory, both because of the thing from which it has freed us and because of the opportunity it has given America to show her sympathy with peace and justice in the councils of the nations… It has been 95 years since President Wilson recognized the one-year anniversary of the end of World War I by declaring November 11 as Armistice Day. The name Armistice Day has since been changed to Veterans Day and is now entrenched in our nation’s calendar as a day to remember and honor all veterans who have proudly served our great nation. Throughout the country on this Veterans Day there will be many ceremonies to celebrate our veterans. At Lord of Life we also recognize the importance of celebrating veterans’ service; we do so by hosting an evening of good food, good stories, and great camaraderie. Each year we have a keynote speaker, and Lord of Life’s Military Family Support Ministry is excited to announce this year’s speaker, Maple Grove resident Joe Kovar: Mr. Kovar is a World War II veteran who served under General George Patton’s famed 3rd Army. On D-Day plus 30 days in 1944, Mr. Kovar landed on Omaha Beach; he also fought in the Battle of Cherbourgh and the Battle of the Bulge. After crossing the Rhine River into Germany his division made it to Austria and liberated four concentration camps. Mr. Kovar sustained injuries during the war and received a Purple Heart. He is a member of the Order of Purple Heart, an organization that provides aid to fellow veterans. Mr. Kovar is a man of faith and has enjoyed passing on his story. He is very excited to participate in Lord of Life’s annual Veterans Day Dinner.
Purple Heart Recipient Joe Kovar Battle of the Bulge Veteran and 2014 Keynote Speaker In lieu of a speaker’s fee, a freewill offering will be taken with 100% of proceeds benefiting the Minneapolis Veterans Home.
On behalf of Lord of Life’s Military Family Support Ministry, we would like to extend an invitation to all veterans and a guest to please join us in Fellowship Hall at 5:30 pm on Friday, November 14. It will be an evening of great food and great fellowship with fellow veterans. If you attend the dinner, you are encouraged to either wear your uniform or bring it for display. Please RSVP by Wednesday, November 12, to lordoflife.org/militaryfamilysupport. LOL Lord of Life’s Canticle Choir will also be honoring all veterans with a military musical medley during the regular Saturday/Sunday worship services on November 8/9 so if you are a veteran or would like to honor a veteran by inviting them to one of these services—please do! 2013 Veterans Recognition Event
living history opportunity
Veterans Dinner Invitation
For students and others interested in history, you are invited to hear Mr. Kovar’s story. After the dinner about 7:15 pm, Fellowship Hall will be opened up for more guests to hear his first person narrative of World War II. Dessert will be provided after the speaker’s message.
“For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a November 2014 7
Faith, Food, and Fellowship on October 2—
Vietnam...Then and Now
OWLs calendar
by Joyce Martin
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s we enjoy the brilliant colors of fall, Pastor Karen Sue Greimel asked if we have the passion of red for warmth and thoughtfulness, orange for joy, yellow for cheerfulness, the royalty of purple as a child of God, and the stability of brown. She challenged us to reflect these fall colors to others. The OWLs then journeyed to Vietnam with Gary Modlin who served in the army during the conflict. Along with 200 people from all over the world building 24 homes, Gary recently returned to Vietnam as a volunteer with Habitat for Humanity. We saw the effect of Agent Orange on the countryside in 1968 leaving no trees; however, today there is a gorgeous landscape filled with trees and lush foliage. Chopsticks in hand, the OWLs dined on Asian cuisine. LOL
Thursday, November 6: Faith, Food, & Fellowship welcomes Janet Martin, a ‘Norwegian-Lutheran Farm Girl Humorist.’ She is sure to bring laughter to Fellowship Hall! Freewill donation lunch begins at noon. Thursday, November 13: Tour of Central Lutheran Church in Minneapolis. Central Lutheran was founded in 1919 by 12 NorwegianAmerican laymen and has since been a landmark center for worship, music, the arts, and service to people in need. Lunch will be at the Hyatt. Leave at 9:30 am and return at 2 pm. The cost is $3 for the bus, plus lunch. Wednesday, November 19: Worship service at Arbor Lakes at 12:45 pm and/ or Rose Arbor Assisted Living at 2:30 pm Friday, November 21: Labeling LifeTIMES in Fellowship Hall at 9:30 am
save the date september 2014 budget year-to-date
Actual Total member contributions
Budget
$2,115,055 $2,143,811
All other
$203,336
Total receipts
Difference ($28,756)
$188,721
$14,615
$2,318,391 $2,332,532
($14,141)
Lord of Life Weekly Giving — September 2014 $80,000 $70,000 $60,000 $50,000 $40,000
generosity / older wiser lutherans
$30,000 $20,000 $10,000 $0
9/7
9/14
9/21
9/28
Actual Budget
$76,063 $74,195
$78,734 $74,195
$76,136 $74,195
$47,856 $74,195
8 November 2014 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a
Thursday, December 4: OWLs’ Annual Christmas Party at 12 noon. “The Angels Sang ‘Peace on Earth’ ” is the theme. The Flemming Fold family singers and Pastor Peter will be our guests. Thursday, December 18: Visit Como Park Conservatory with a guided tour to see poinsettias on display and other tropical plants. After the tour, in a private room we’ll enjoy a box lunch followed by a visit from an animal ambassador and zoo animals. We will also have time to shop in the Garden Safari gift shop. Leave at 9:30 am and return at 3:30 pm, cost is $27 including lunch. Please 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.
God Leads Us by Shar Moseng
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our life can change in a moment. April and Tim Zentgraf from Fergus Falls can bear witness to that statement. Last spring April went to the doctor for a sinus infection and learned soon after that she had a rare form of leukemia. Tim spent three days by April’s side in the hospital then a room opened up at Hope Lodge. Founded by the American Cancer Society, Hope Lodge is a home-away-from-home for adult cancer patients and their caregivers who travel more than 40 miles to receive treatment. April and Tim are both amazed by all that Hope Lodge offers for basic needs and emotional/ spiritual support.
basic needs Tim explained, You can come here and you don’t need a nickel in your pocket. You can stay here… there’s laundry facilities and there’s a community refrigerator. There is always something to eat. ‘Grab and Go’ bags also make things easier because it would be too expensive if we ate at the hospital. April and Tim mentioned how much they appreciate it when organizations come and make dinner. They shared, No one comes as often as Lord of Life. It’s such a nice break and a welcome change to have someone cook for you. Everyone checks the fridge for leftovers after you leave.
emotional/spiritual support April and Tim love the fact that Hope Lodge has great places to congregate when relatives visit. They have also made many friends with other Hope Lodge guests who travel to Minneapolis from all over the country to receive treatment —some as far as Alaska. April said, We’ve made friends here and have kept in touch. Our one common denominator is cancer. Everyone has a different story. Sometimes I have a pity party, but then I look at some of the other people around me, and there is always someone else who has things worse. It makes me thankful for what I’ve got. Their prayer list gets longer because they keep meeting more people. As they travel this journey, they have realized that we oftentimes take things for granted until something goes wrong. April’s cancer has been an eye-opening experience for them, but they know the promise of God’s love. April said it best, God leads us through an obstacle and He’ll help us through it. There are all walks of life here. Cancer doesn’t pick out rich people or poor people. Without Hope Lodge... where would we be? This place is amazing. I never dreamt there was a place like this.
cancer support Whether you have been newly diagnosed or are in remission, Lord of Life offers a women’s and a men’s cancer support group. Both groups meet on the first Monday of the month at 7 pm at Lord of Life. You are invited to attend for support, encouragement, and a listening ear. Questions? For the men’s group, please contact Gregg Backstrom at gregg@ boatblender.com. For the women’s group, please contact Rachel Ross at tonyrachelross@yahoo.com or Joann Cross at crossfiles@ comcast.net.
marriage retreat Energize your relationship and attend a Lutheran Marriage Encounter weekend on November 2123 or February 13-14 in Brooklyn Center. Apply now at GodLovesMarriage.org or contact Peter & Phyllis McMahon (763.561.1575 or mcmahonp@comcast. net). Weekends fill fast and preregistration is required two weeks prior to the retreat weekend.
April and Tim were optimistic that they could return to their home soon. They were looking forward to resuming their lives which include a blended family of nine children and 16 grandchildren. LOL There are many ways to get involved in this ministry, visit lordoflife.org/hopelodge for details and contact information. Hope Lodge “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a November 2014 9
Fall Benefit on November 23 for Source MN—
Hope and Opportunity by Chuck Denninger
T adopt-a-park fall clean up 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 9 from 1-2 pm at South Elm Road Neighborhood Park. Please sign up in advance by contacting kklitz@toraxmedical.com for this Creation Care Team event.
hrough urban outreach and antitrafficking efforts, Source MN, Inc. empowers the at-risk and unreached to make a break from the past and build foundations for the future. Source provides hope and opportunity to the urban poor and disregarded. Source has been a friend, serving physical needs and housing, and a voice, communicating God’s love and forgiveness, to those marginalized and skeptical since 1995. Source reaches those who are often overlooked by the rest of our community through providing transitional housing and life-skill mentors, supporting those who have been victimized by prostitution, hosting a community foodshelf and clothes closet, and providing free community meals.
19th annual source fall benefit reception The annual Fall Benefit is an inspiring evening, engaging donors in the work being done and allowing them to hear directly from those who have benefitted by their experience at Source. Lord of Life is excited to be hosting this year on Sunday, November 23! This year’s program should be especially compelling with the re-launch of the Annex program providing opportunity for women to escape prostitution. Registration is at 4:30 pm, dinner buffet at 5 pm, and presentation at 5:45 pm. For more information, visit sourcemn.org, or contact Jacquie Bair at 612.382.5414.
community dinner opportunity healthy food drive The Food Group (formerly Emergency Foodshelf Network or EFN) is sponsoring a healthy food drive in November. Here are some examples of healthy foods:
Lord of Life Ministries
• • • • • • •
High-fiber cereals Fruit and pudding cups 100% fruit juices Baby food and formula Tomato sauce and pasta Canned meats or tuna Peanut butter
Please bring your donations to the bins marked The Food Group located in Lord of Life’s Service Center.
10 November 2014 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a
On the fourth Wednesday of every month, Lord of Life volunteers prepare and serve a meal at Source in south Minneapolis. Residents, staff, neighbors, volunteers, friends, and victims truly appreciate the home-baked food. In September approximately 30 folks took part in this community dinner. If you are interested in preparing and/or serving and getting to know wonderful people at an appreciative community meal, please contact Chuck at chuckdenninger@yahoo.com. LOL Thank you, Lord of Life, for all of your support, prayers, and volunteers!
Job Transition Group by Nancy Fraasch
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ince June Lord of Life has supported a job transition group. It is for anyone considering a job change or between jobs, entering the workforce for the first time, considering getting back into the workforce, or exploring new opportunities. This ministry is open to both Lord of Life members and the community as a whole. The group meets the first and third Tuesday of every month at 7–8 am. Each meeting starts with short introductions of all attendees and ends with prayer. The first Tuesday is informal networking and discussion of job search topics of concern. The third Tuesday has a speaker on various job-related topics. Our next meetings will be on November 1 and 18. No registration is required. Just come to network and learn new search strategies! Our topic for November 18 will be The Three Most Common Mistakes that Derail an Interview...and How to Avoid Them. The presenter, Margie Derks, is a Certified Career Management Coach who has been assisting individuals in career transitions for nearly 20 years. Margie says, Your expertise and credentials are important factors in landing a position— but they can’t do it alone. You need to form the connection with the interviewer(s) and communicate your value in a way that will be heard. This upbeat and interactive presentation will highlight three roadblocks to success in interviews and provide simple yet effective strategies to help you connect with your interviewer and get the offer! For potential employers, human resource managers, business owners, and professional speakers—if you have job openings, are available for informational meetings with job seekers, or able to speak at a meeting— please contact me! LOL Visit lordoflife.org/job-transition for upcoming events and speakers. For more information or questions, contact Nancy Fraasch at nancy@nancyfraaschconsulting.com.
One Mission One World: Uganda
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People attend Celebrate Recovery for a variety of reasons. It might surprise you to learn that of the approximately 70 people who attend Celebrate Recovery each week, only 15% of them struggle with some type of addiction. That means 85% are dealing with something other than addiction, or what we call a “hurt.” What might that be? Divorce, depression, anger, resentment, un-forgiveness, loneliness, job loss, a loved one struggling with an addiction, overeating, past relationship issues, current relationship issues. The list goes on… Each time someone new finds their way to Celebrate Recovery—after attending just a few short weeks— they almost always say, How long has this been going? or Why didn’t I hear about Celebrate Recovery before now? If you are struggling with any type of hurt, know that you are not alone. Come to Celebrate Recovery to find hope, help, and healing. Celebrate Recovery meets every Tuesday evening with an optional dinner from 5:45-6:30 pm and programming from 6:30-8:30 pm. Childcare is provided. Celebrate Recovery offers programming for the whole family too! the landing for teens and Celebration Place for elementary-age children go on simultaneously. No registration is needed. Questions? Contact Michelle Welinski at michellew@lordoflife.org or 763.420.5015 x118.
Lord of Life Ministries
hanks to a funding partnership formed by Lord of Life Lutheran and Hope 4 Kids International, construction of a new classroom building at Juba in Tororo, Uganda, was recently completed. Hope 4 Kids International raised one-half of the funding required for the construction and Lord of Life provided matching funds. Phase II construction of a second classroom building will begin soon, also made possible with a similar funding partnership between Lord of Life and Hope 4 Kids International. —Kent Dirks
almost the best kept secret
“For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a November 2014 11
ELCA Youth Gathering !
Summer 2015 we will be joining 40,000 people in Detroit for the ELCA Youth Gathering. It’s an amazing opportunity to be a part of the larger church as we worship, serve, learn, meet new friends and experience God in a new way. You don’t want to miss this trip! The dates are July 11-20, 2015. Find out more and register at lordoflife.org/youthgathering.
Christ, Community, Confirmation—
C3
sundays senior high field trip
We love volunteering with Habitat for Humanity around the country in the summer—here is a chance to serve with Habitat Twin Cities! • • • •
Saturday, November 1 $25 lordoflife.org/shfieldtrips must be 16 to participate
senior high sundays
All sr. high youth are welcome to join us for worship, hanging out and sharing our faith every Sunday night! Ecclesia worship starts at 7 pm and Express youth group starts at 7:45 pm. See you there!
November 2, 9, 16 5-6 pm: 5:30-6:30 pm: 6-7 pm: 7-7:45 pm: 7:45-8:45 pm:
C3 Groups (7th Grade Only) Family Meal C3 Groups and L5 Ecclesia Worship in The Gathering Explore
wednesdays
November 5, 12, 19 4:30-5:30 pm: 5:30-6:30 pm: 6:30-7:30 pm:
C3 Groups Family Meal C3 Groups and L5
leaders’ huddle Wednesday, November 5, 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!
children, youth & family
jr. high explore
12 November 2014 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a
Come check out Explore — it’s a fun time with worship and games and just exploring our faith together on November 2, 9, and 16 from 7:45-8:45 pm.
Club 56 !
In September, Club 56 had a great time at Target Field (above); they also had a service project with Feed My Starving Children. The next Club 56 event is November 14 from 5-9 pm. It’s an Ugly Sweater Christmas Party and making tie blankets then seeing Disney’s Big Hero 6. Please register online at lordoflife.org/club56. Cost is $15. Adult volunteers needed!
Operation Christmas Child shoe box gifts may be dropped off at Lord of Life near the main office through Wednesday, November 19. For more information and brochures, visit the display and lordoflife.org/occ.
was Lord of Life’s last+ PNO & attended by 150 children rs— tee lun vo supported by 40 great turnout!
Parent Night Out
T
children, youth & family
he next PNO is Friday, November 7, 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 “The Great Tomb Raid.” 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 $15 per child) will help benefit Lord of Life’s Adult Ministries and the Sr. High ELCA Youth Gathering. Please register at lordoflife.org/pno. LOL
“For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a November 2014 13
Little Hands “Ring and Sing!”
Kalahari Family Retreat November 14-16
You are invited to an ‘in the beginning’ children’s choir at Lord of Life. This new ministry began in October— we ring, sing, play, and pray.
Last call...
…for the Lord of Life Family Retreat at the Kalahari Resort in the Wisconsin Dells! There may be a little room left for your family— find out at lordoflife.org/familyretreat.
Who:
Children age 18 months-kindergarten
When:
Tuesdays, 10-10:45 am Thursdays, 6-6:45 pm
(accompanied by bigger hands such as parent, godparent, grandparent, caregiver, neighbor, older sibling, babysitter, or friend)
Directed by Penny Meschke. Questions? Please email pennym@lordoflife.org
Eighty-two 3rd graders and their parents learned many things about their new Bibles. Over 150 students received Bibles on Reformation Weekend.
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Perfect weather made Release Day even more fun for 1-4 graders. Games, devotions, service projects, and an apple orchard!
children, youth & family
Release Day 2014 !
14 November 2014 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a
November Book Picks
November Bible Verse: Be thankful to Him and bless His name. For the Lord is good. Psalm 100:46
Happy November by Angie Schiebel, Director of Karing Kingdom Preschool
Thanksgiving for Emily Ann by Teresa Johnston Emily Ann does not care for Thanksgiving.With all the hustle and bustle she feels a bit ignored.This story shows how her family comes together to show her what really matters about Thanksgiving, the gift of family.
H
appy November! We begin our month with the exploration of science, technology and engineering. We will take our first bus ride to The Works Museum. This hands-on interactive experience features building, simple machines, using simple tools and design challenges. What fun!
Celebrating 20 Years 1995-2015
Next we’re climbing aboard the zoo train to visit some of our most favorite animal friends. We end our month with a celebration of Thanksgiving. We will highlight gratitude, what it is and how it feels. Our Chapel Chat theme with Pastor Sarah will be Thanksgiving. We end our month with a thanksgiving feast at school. Yes, it’s turkey with all the trimmings—don’t forget to bring your appetite! Conferences will be held on Monday, November 24, and Tuesday, November 25. Karing Kingdom will be closed November 26-28 for Thanksgiving. LOL
Gratitude Soup by Olivia Rosewood Violet the Purple Fairy learns how to make Gratitude Soup by thinking of all the experiences, places, people and things that she is grateful for and placing them in an imaginary soup pot. Perfect for teaching children about gratitude with fun and play. You may be inspired to make your own Gratitude Soup. Look for the “Create Your Own” version of the book that encourages your child to make their own gratitude soup.
For more information about Karing Kingdom Preschool, please contact us at kingdom@lordoflife.org or call 763.420.5015 x127.
Karing Kingdom Teachers (back row left to right): Carly Tappe, Maureen Murphy, Jennifer Ellingson Karing Kingdom Director: (front row) Angie Schiebel
karing kingdom
This little light of mine—I’m gonna let it shine!
“For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21a November 2014 15
Nonprofit US Postage Paid Maple Grove, MN Permit #14 RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED - TIME SENSITIVE MATERIAL ADDRESS 7401 COUNTY ROAD 101, MAPLE GROVE, MN 55311-4313 PHONE 763.420.5015 WEB lordoflife.org FACEBOOK lordoflifelutheran 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. Deadline for the December issue is November 1. Copyright © 2014 Lord of Life Lutheran Church
caught reading lifetimes Very full and very happy Lord of Lifers after a fantastic Italian dinner prepared by Tom & Terry Pellegrino. (left to right) Pastors Peter & Karen GeisendorferLindgren, Susan & Mark Lauer,Terry & Tom Pellegrino, Sean & Kay Gormley, John & Linda Jenneke, Jane & Larry Schmidt.
Lorraine Erickson (in polka dot top) was caught reading LifeTIMES with 15 of the friends she was confirmed with from First Lutheran Church in Janesville,Wisconsin.They were all attending Janesville Senior High School’s 50th class reunion.
God’s Work. Our Hands. Rally Sunday parking was calmer for many Lord of Lifers thanks to these volunteers (left to right): Tom Wilson, Bill Carlyon, Al Peterson, Chris Tollefson, and Lori Schwartz. To learn how your hands can do God’s work at Lord of Life, visit lordoflife.org/godsworkourhands. November 2014
“For me to live is Christ”
Philippians 1:21a