October 2015

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

LifeTIMES Hi, Martin. Got a minute?

Ja, Peter. Guten tag!

October is a big month at Lord of Life ... mostly because of you and the Reformation!

Nein, Peter. You know it is because of the Holy Spirit.

U had the Gutenberg press & movable type in your day ... do you think you’d be txting the masses in 2015?!

Ja, Peter. Why not? God’s holy Word must be in the language of the people ... not simply for the learned elite.

So you’d B on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, etc.?

Ja, Peter. Spread the good news of Jesus Christ.

Well, Martin, when it comes to txting, I’m ‘all thumbs’ ... can U txt?

Here I stand. I can do no other. ;)

Pastor Peter

Reformation Weekend

Each year on the last Sunday in October, Lord of Life celebrates the Reformation along with Lutherans around the world. Because of Martin Luther’s emphasis on the Word, all third graders are presented with their own Bibles (Pages 14) and tenth graders affirm their baptismal promises in the Rite of Confirmation (Page 13). Festival worship will include the singing of Luther’s great anthem, A Mighty Fortress Is Our God.

October 2015

LO R D O F LI FE LU T HE R A N C H UR CH (ELCA) 7401 County Road 101, Maple Grove, MN 55311-4313 phone 763.420.5015 fax 763.420.7286 web lordoflife.org Visit lordoflife.org/staff for a full staff listing with photos. prayernetwork@lordoflife.org

office@lordoflife.org

/lordoflife

/lordoflife /lolcyf

/lordoflifeelca

/lordoflifeluth

Lord of Life exists to proclaim the saving grace of Jesus Christ and for its faith community to witness and serve God gratefully in daily life.

—Lord of Life’s Global Ends Policy PASTO RA L S TA F F Rev. Peter Geisendorfer-Lindgren, Senior Pastor, peter@lordoflife.org Rev. Sarah Bunge, Pastor, Evangelism/Worship, sarahb@lordoflife.org Rev. Dr. Karen Geisendorfer-Lindgren, Pastor, Adult Ministries, karengl@lordoflife.org Rev. Karen Sue Greimel, Pastor, Pastoral Care, ksgreimel@lordoflife.org Rev. Charles ‘Chick’ Lane, Pastor, Stewardship/Generosity, chickl@lordoflife.org Rev. David McCarty, Pastor, Outreach/Mission, davem@lordoflife.org Rev. Donna Rohrer, Pastor, Adult Education, donnar@lordoflife.org Pastoral Intern Kari Lyn Wampler, karilynw@lordoflife.org Pastoral Intern Taylor Wilson, taylorw@lordoflife.org

TABLE O F CO N T E N T S Worship and Music / Pastor’s Article . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Pages 2-3 Lord of Life’s Family of Faith . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Pages 4-5 Hope Lodge / Acts 29 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Pages 6-7 Generosity / Older Wiser Lutherans (OWLs) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Pages 8-9 Lord of Life Ministries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Pages 10-14 Karing Kingdom Preschool . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 15

october worship and music October 3/4 Pastor Peter Geisendorfer-Lindgren Saturday: Praise Band Sunday: Joyful Noise and Alleluia (8:30 and 9:45 am), Canticle Choir (11 am) October 10/11 Pastor Sarah Bunge Saturday: Praise Band Sunday: Bel Canto (all three services), Canticle Choir (8:30 and 9:45 am) October 17/18 Pastor Chick Lane Saturday: Praise Band Sunday: New Life Ensemble October 24/25, Reformation Weekend Pastor Peter Geisendorfer-Lindgren Saturday: Praise Band Sunday: Canticle Choir, Lord of Life Brass

<> 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 New Offsite Worship on Sundays: October 18 and 25, 5 pm, at Mobile Hope at Maple Hill Estates; stay tuned to November’s LifeTIMES for more details from Pastoral Intern Taylor Wilson.

Third Sunday, October 18, worship at 10 am at Good Samaritan - Ambassador in New Hope Third Wednesday, October 21, worship at 12:45 pm at Arbor Lakes Senior Living in the 2nd floor community room and at 2:30 pm at Rose Arbor Assisted Living in their red room Healing Service: The next quarterly healing service is Saturday, November 21, at 6:30 pm in Lord of Life’s Prayer Chapel. Private healing

Worship and Music

appointments are also available; please contact

2 October 2015

Pastor Karen Sue Greimel directly.

Worship and music schedules are subject to change.

On October 4, the Blessing of the Animals welcomes more than white canines—see Page 10.

For everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.

Romans 10:13

Connect with Prayer

by Pastor Karen Sue Greimel A few years ago a wonderful friend gave me a wooden plaque that read, Prayer: the world’s greatest wireless connection. Ask yourself this question, which do you use more—the wireless connection God has given you, prayer, or a man-made wireless connection, your cell phone?

Many years ago I would have answered that question by assuming I was able to handle things myself. Besides, God was busy dealing with the ‘real’ hard, more important situations. Until I found myself in a situation that was getting the best of me and, stubbornly, I refused to turn it over, to pray about it, I could do it myself.

I was making a lot of wrong calls. I was so busy trying to take care of it that God just let me. Finally, I gave up, it was time for God to drive; I turned over the wheel.

Prayer is one way we can take our hands off and let God put His hands on.

There is a lesson here, God wants all our prayers, the big, the little, the happy, the sad. And there is none too small or too big.

Your cell phone will never connect you like prayer does. Think of it this way— prayer is the difference between the best you can do and the best God can do.

So who would you rather call?

women’s retreat invitation Saturday, November 7, 9:30 am-3:30 pm A day to delight in the gift we can open again and again and again—prayer. Build confidence in your prayer life as we are led by Pastor Karen Sue Greimel with Cynthia and Larry Pivec, co-leaders for L5 Prayer School. Our day at Lord of Life will include worship, communion, large group teachings, small group break-out sessions— plus a lovely lunch.

Cost is $25

•

Bring a friend

•

Check-in and fellowship is 9-9:30 am

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There will be no childcare for this event

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Bring a wrapped package of any size with a prayer request inside

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Register at lordoflife.org/womensretreat by Wednesday, October 21

•

Questions? Contact Wendy Showalter at 763.229.3185 or wendylsshowalter@gmail.com

P RAYER

~ the gift that keeps on giving ~ 2015

lord

of

Life

Women’s

Retreat

Pastor’s Article

•

October 2015 3

Lord of Life’s

Family Thank you to Bret Newton for sharing his oil painting with the Lord of Life family. Bret adds, “I majored in visual arts at Minnesota State University and work from my ‘studio’ in the house (i.e. garage). My style is impressionism. —The Man, The Myth, The Legend, The Newt” If you have creative gifts in painting, photography, poetry, writing or other areas—you are encouraged to share them with Editor Bev Mello (bevm@lordoflife.org). Glory to God for these gifts and talents!

baptisms

bereavements

At Lord of Life, we baptize individuals at any age. The next baptism class will be Sunday, October 11, at 11 am. No pregistration 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.

August 1 Liam Augusto Anderson

August 16 Lucas William Tappe

August 2 Vince Carl Leonard

August 23 Kellan Narbo Kapps Tenley Nicole Sayler Leighton Sue Smith

August 9 Ayden Michael Becchetti Blake Anthony Brinkhaus Leon Issac Martinez Payton Rae Peterson Dylan Lee Sücky Autumn Claire Tripp

Family of Faith

August 15 Callie Mae Lund Hailey Sophia Lund Anna Renee Manrodt Eliana Kristiina Manrodt Isabel Caroline Manrodt

4 October 2015

August 29 Cooper Martini Niezwaag Wesley Ann Pohl August 30 Taylor Robin Darth Ashton Chan DeVries Ava Rose Mattison

Mary Backstrom and family at the death of her mother Glenn Erickson and family at the death of his brother Julia Fair and family at the death of her stepfather Cheryl Gale and family at the death of her father Bill Gilman and family at the death of his brother Paul Haines with Erik and Nate and family at the death of their wife/mother Brad Hildebrand and family at the death of his mother

of

Faith

I am the way, the truth, and the life.

No one comes to the Father but by Me. Photo © Lightstock

John 14:6

weddings

welcome

Christine Lagerquist and family at the death of her mother

August 8 Jessica Mittelstaedt & Bryan Hunt

Craig Anderson & Mandy Liles with Caleb and Carter Anderson

Mary Robertson and family at the death of her mother

August 15 April Lind & Scott Welinski Taylor Kearn & Tyler Nelson

Scott Curtis

Mary Ann Schumacher and family at the death of her aunt Heather Sharpe and family at the death of her stepfather Pat Smuda-Behr and family at the death of her father-in-law Bruce Stensland and family at the death of his mother and brother Lori Stich and family at the death of her husband

August 22 Tessa Carroll & Jonathan Fredman Laura Plaschko & Andrew Miller August 29 Sherry Miskowic & Kenneth Nater

Ryan & Stacy Duffy with Reese and Hunter Darin & Mallory Leonard with Vince Lonnie & Jennifer Lofstedt with Kelsey, Trevor, and Nicole Samantha Redepenning Michael & Krisandra Shimpa with Jemma Kyle & Katie Wimmer with Isabelle

Family of Faith

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.

October 2015 5

The American Cancer Society’s Hope Lodge is a Lord of Life ministry—

Mother and Daughter Reflections

by Shar Moseng Jeanne, a mother, and Ann, her daughter, began volunteering at Hope Lodge after Jeanne’s journey with breast cancer. She was diagnosed in September 2013 after noticing a swollen and sore area.

This is where she’d tell you ladies to get your mammograms! Within two weeks she started chemo, had a mastectomy, and then began radiation.

Jeanne and Ann share their separate reflections on how cancer has affected their lives and why they serve at Hope Lodge.

drawing support

Jeanne leaned on husband, Scott, for appointments, meals, driving, and emotional support. Jeanne’s two children, Ann and Eric, were away at school and honored Jeanne’s wish to remain in school.

They called and came home often. Jeanne also received tremendous support from friends/coworkers who visited, brought meals, sent cards and gifts. She was not allowed to work as an emergency room nurse while going through treatment, so visits were especially important for her emotionally. Looking back, Jeanne realizes God puts the right people in the right places at the right times.

Ann found it very difficult and emotionally taxing to be away at school during her mom’s treatment; frequent phone calls kept them connected. Ann thinks being away at school may have helped her mom retain a sense of normalcy talking together about something other than cancer. Ann also had an incredible support system from her fiancé and family, roommates, and old friends.

gaining perspective

Jeanne thinks she is more of what she was before cancer ... more compassionate, more patient, more sensitive, and most importantly, more focused on living each day to the fullest. She is deeply grateful for family, friends, neighbors, and care team in a way that words cannot describe. Jeanne has also learned what a strong woman her daughter has become. She is proud to call Ann her biggest cheerleader.

Ann feels her mom’s cancer experience was a stark reminder to receive every day as a blessing, to take nothing for granted. She tells people “I love you” more often. She also appreciates her relationship with her mom even more. While Ann has always relied on Jeanne for support in any situation, she is glad she can offer the same for her mom. She treasures every day spent with her more than before.

paying it forward

When Jeanne learned of Lord of Life’s Hope Lodge ministry, it seemed like a great way to pay it forward to others with cancer. She knows how exhausting it is to sit in treatment or in waiting rooms all day being poked and prodded. At Hope Lodge, guests come ‘home’ where a warm meal is ready, no cooking or doing dishes, served by smiling faces without staring or judgment. She says Hope Lodge residents are so grateful. Jeanne considers Lord of Life volunteers as her ‘Hope Lodge Family.’ They are welcoming, fun, and filled with love.

When Ann learned about her mom’s experiences at Hope Lodge, she immediately jumped on board. Not only does it afford her more time with her mom, she also wanted to help others dealing with cancer. She finds Hope Lodge guests truly inspiring because dealing with cancer is hard enough, so being far from home, family, and friends is even more difficult. Her favorite time at Hope Lodge is sitting down next to guests enjoying a meal. Sometimes they talk about diagnosis and treatment; other times they talk about their lives and families. Every time Ann leaves, she is inspired by the guests because they are almost always hopeful and joyful. She also appreciates connecting with other volunteers. The people who serve there are special; they love and support each other no matter what.

Hope Lodge

Located in Minneapolis, Hope Lodge is a home-away-from-home for adult cancer patients/caregivers who travel more than 40 miles to receive treatment. There are many ways to get involved in Lord of Life’s Hope Lodge ministry. For more details, visit lordoflife.org/hopelodge.

6 October 2015

The book of Acts is the story of the church; it has only 28 chapters. The 29th chapter is still being written by His people—

It’s Not About Building a House

by Merle and Michelle Waldron So if it’s not about building a house, what is it about? Doesn’t the mission revolve around disaster relief, doesn’t that mean building or repairing a house? Acts 1:8 says, “and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” We are to be His, our Lord’s witnesses, and when we look at how our Lord did things, it was relational. If you ask people who have gone on one of the nine Acts 29 trips, most likely they will tell you about Ms. Corrine, Mr. Sam, Mr. Buras, Ms. Juanita, Ms. Jennifer, Ms. Monique, Ms. Denice, Ernie, or Ms. Dorothy. The list could go on. Each year we meet new homeowners or waitresses or people on a beach or in a park or at a gas station or wayside rest. They generally ask what is Acts 29 and what are you doing? That’s the opening for us to share what and why we are doing what we do. We never know when it will happen—you just know that when it does, it is from the Lord. It is the “face of God.” Each of us has a face of God, it is just sometimes easier to see and acknowledge them when we are away from home on a mission trip. But, make no mistake about it, the face of God stories or encounters happen all the time. We’ll share two that happened this year which were not at work sites.

The first was during our first night for dinner at 17th Street BBQ in Marion, Illinois. Our waitress, Kyla, saw our shirts, heard us talking, and told us of the trip she would be taking later this year in Africa. She will be serving there in the medical field; she is currently in school studying medicine. We went back to the hotel, got a prayer shawl, and took it back to her. It touched all of us.

The second was when we went out to dinner at Mugshots in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. There was a large group sitting next to us; they were laughing and sharing good times. When they got ready to leave, they were trying to take a group photo; we helped them get arranged and took the shot for them. They asked what we were doing and about Acts 29. We shared, but what they shared meant much more. It was their Wednesday small group, one of the members was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer and would not be with them much longer. So for us to help with the photo, to share some laughs and a prayer, meant the world to them.

The face of God. You never know when He’ll put you in a spot to experience it or for you to be the face of God for someone else. You just know that when it happens, you’ve been blessed.

We could share more face of God stories from this or other trips because what we tell the Acts 29 participants from day one: “It’s not about building a house.” We invite you to experience the face of God on one of our trips, or just be open to experiencing it in your daily life. He wants to bless you.

To learn more about Acts 29 and Lord of Life’s One Mission One World ministries, visit lordoflife.org/acts29.

Acts 29 October 2015 7

A Big Change Is Coming

a chocolate lover’s evening

by Pastor Chick Lane

A big change is coming regarding your giving to Lord of Life. For many years, members of Lord of Life have been encouraged to give to both the general budget of the congregation and the building fund. The general budget has funded all the incredible ministries of our congregation. The building fund has paid our building debt, especially since the most recent addition. This is changing.

Because of the faithful giving of many people over many years, Lord of Life is now able to combine these two funds into one. Beginning in 2016, Lord of Life members will be asked to combine their two gifts into one. If you have been giving to both the general fund and the building fund, the request is for you to combine these two gifts into one gift to the general fund. This one gift will accomplish what your previous two gifts have accomplished—supporting our congregation’s ministry and continuing to reduce our building debt.

There will be much more information about this in the upcoming stewardship emphasis, to be held in early November. For now, begin thinking about how your giving in 2016 will make a difference through our congregation.

In support of Global Health Administration Partners (GHAP), come and taste gourmet chocolate while sipping wine and learning about exciting projects —especially those in Madagascar, Tanzania, and Cameroon. On Friday, October 9, from 6:30-9 pm, the event will be at Global Health Ministries, 7831 Hickory St NE in Fridley. Those who come early may tour the warehouse and see how medical items are collected, itemized, stored, and shipped for overseas health programs. You may even catch sight of a huge ocean shipping container on its way to far-off lands!

Cost is $50 per person for the evening.

The guest speaker will be Chuck Cooper, pharmacy program manager with Fairview Health Services. There will also be a small boutique and live auction. For more information and to register, visit ghapartners.org.

Budget Year-to-date August 2015 Actual

Total member contributions All other

$1,982,878 $1,924,066 $158,883

Total receipts

Budget

Difference $58,813

$155,182

$3,701

$2,141,762 $2,079,247

$62,514

Lord of Life Weekly Giving — August 2015 $80,000 $70,000 $60,000 $50,000 $40,000

$20,000 $10,000 0

Generosity

8/2 8/9 8/16 8/23 8/30

Actual $71,612 $54,536 $50,696 $43,011 $47,430 Budget $50,291 $50,291 $50,291 $50,291 $50,292

8 October 2015

Leaving a legacy isn’t just for the wealthy; everyone needs to plan ahead. On Thursday, October 29, attend a free workshop at Lord of Life about four important topics: •

Retiring wisely while maximizing Social Security

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Choosing post-acute rehabilitation options and learning about Medicare

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Family, church, charity—what’s important to you?

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Planning for the inevitable with celebrations of life

This workshop will be offered at 2 pm or 7 pm; choose the time that works best for your schedule. Co-hosts for this workship include Good Samaritan Society-Ambassador, Kapala-Glodek-Malone Funeral Home, and Thrivent Financial.

$30,000

leaving a legacy

If you plan to attend, please rsvp to Sue Klaseus at 763.417.7127 or sklaseus@good-sam.com.

These shoppers first listened to the mellow tones of Scripture wind chimes then purchased a Taylor Wilson cd.

reflections of faith Do you know Lord of Life has a gift/book store? Reflections of Faith is located on the main level across the foyer from the church office. There are L5 study guides, Word for Women books, Bibles, greeting cards, faith-based home decor, and Christian gifts for many occasions, including confirmation.

Stop in to browse or shop ‘til you drop. There are opportunities to volunteer as well. Shifts are scheduled so you may attend worship before or after volunteering.

No experience is needed. Interested in learning more?

Contact Michelle Welinski at michellew@lordoflife.org or 763.420.5015 x118.

Older Wiser Lutherans october Thursday, October 1: Relax. Enjoy. Reward yourself.

Lord of Life member Jennifer Czerniak will be our guide for “River Cruises.” We begin our journey at noon in Fellowship Hall with a freewill donation lunch. Bring a friend!

Thursday, October 15: The OWLs will tour the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis.The Federal Reserve System is the central bank of the United States, created

by Congress through a law passed in 1913, charging it with a responsibility to foster a sound banking system and a healthy economy. The OWLs will tour the ‘Minneapolis Fed’ and learn how financial transactions are processed, how its law enforcement department manages security, learn about the responsibilities of the board of directors, as well as other points of interest.

Cost is $3 with lunch on your own at Olive Garden in St. Louis Park after the tour. We will depart from church at 9:15 am and return at approximately 2 pm.

Wednesday, October 21: Worship at Arbor Lakes at 12:45 pm and/or Rose Arbor Assisted Living at 2:30 pm Friday, October 23: LifeTIMES labeling in Fellowship Hall at 9:30 am ... coffee’s always on!

save the date honoring source directors You are invited to Lord of Life on Friday, November 20, to celebrate the 20th anniversary of Peter and Jessica Wohler serving as the directors of Source in Minneapolis. Homeless youth, those unchurched and skeptical, urban poor, victims of sex trafficking, emerging artists, interns, staff, volunteers, and many others have been positively affected by the Wohlers. Hear stories of the past and goals for the future of Source. Registration is at 6:30 pm, dinner at 7 pm, and presentation at 8 pm. Cost is $50 per person or a table of eight for $350. Please rsvp by November 8 to sourcempls@gmail.com.

Thursday, November 5: “Insider Information” with guest John Lauritsen, a reporter with WCCO. An Emmy Award winner, John has been a reporter, anchor, sports reporter, editor, producer, and photographer.

Come and hear his personal story and learn about the world of news reporting. We begin at noon in the Fellowship Hall with a freewill donation lunch. Don’t miss it!

Thursday, November 19: Feed My Starving Children— Please join in to pack meals that are specifically formulated to feed malnourished children. The meals are distributed to over 70 countries. We will have an early lunch on your own at Carol’s in Blaine before packing the meals. We will leave church at 10:15 am and return at 3 pm. Cost is $7. Register at lordoflife.org/ OWLsFeedMyStarvingChildren or on the bulletin board.

Thursday, December 3: The OWLs Annual Christmas Party - “Deck the Halls” with guest Steven Marking.

More details to come, for now please save the date!

Lord of Life Ministries

See the bulletin board or lordoflife.org/owls for more details of upcoming events. Cancellations due to weather will be on the authority of the event leader and made at least 24 hours in advance when possible; calls will be made to all participants.

Questions? Contact Joyce or Gordy Martin directly at grjsmartin@embarqmail.com or 763.497.7355.

October 2015 9

Via de Cristo

Are you interested in attending a Via de Cristo weekend? If so, now is the time to register for the October weekends: October 15-18 for men and October 22-25 for women.

Via de Cristo is a Spanish phrase meaning “Way of Christ.” It is a structured, three-day weekend held at a local church. Participants live, study, worship, and commune together daily. The weekend begins on Thursday evening and ends on Sunday evening.

The objective of a Via de Cristo weekend is to equip church members for Christian action in their homes, churches and communities.

Almost 100 Lord of Life members have attended a weekend. Here are a few of their comments: I came to understand God’s grace.

It gave me a stronger desire to grow closer to God. I received an incredible sense of peace, like I’d never known before.

God worked miracles that weekend both for me and through me.

I can truthfully say that the experience deepened my faith and relationship with God. If you would like more information or an application, please contact Tony or Diane Sjolander at tdsjolander@comcast.net or Merle or Michelle Waldron at mmwaldron@comcast.net.

Creation Care Team

adopt-a-park fall clean cleanup - october 11, 1 pm Lord of Life is looking for volunteers to assist in the fall clean-up of our two adopted Maple Grove parks. The two locations are South Elm Road Neighborhood Park and Grove West Neighborhood Park. Please sign up in advance by emailing kklitz@toraxmedical.com with your interest in this Creation Care Team event.

blessing of the animals - october 4, 2 pm Held rain or shine—all furry, finned, or feathered family members are invited. After a short walk around the grounds and a brief informal service, all pets receive a blessing from a pastor. This is a wonderful event and great fun to see the Lord of Life Ministries

diverse menagerie of family members. See Page 2 for a few more photos.

10 October 2015

cancer support groups Men’s and women’s cancer support groups meet the first Monday of each month at 7 pm here at Lord of Life.

If you have been recently diagnosed and would like to talk with someone before a meeting, contact Michelle Welinski at michellew@ lordoflife.org or 763.420.5015 x118.

keep looking forward

by Michelle Welinski Have you ever tried driving down the road just by looking in your rearview mirror? I could barely back out my long, curvy driveway using the backup camera—let alone just using the rearview mirror!

The same could be said of our lives.

When we keep looking back at what we did wrong or what wrong has been done to us, we lose sight of the beautiful future. The evil one works hard to keep us trapped in past mistakes and hurts. While it’s important to look at our past, it is more important to learn from the past and not stay stuck. Jesus calls us to move forward towards Him. At Celebrate Recovery, through large group teachings and small group discussion, we are able to look back at the past, offer forgiveness when necessary, make amends, and then look forward to where Jesus is calling.

Which way are you looking, friends?

God has a plan for each one of us, and it is oh, so good. Keep focused on the future!

Celebrate Recovery meets every Tuesday with an optional dinner at 5:30 pm and programming beginning at 6:30 pm. Childcare is provided and programming for children K-6. No registration is required.

Questions? Contact Michelle Welinski at michellew@lordoflife.org or 763.420.5015 x118.

Lifelong Learning at Lord of Life Lutheran Session 2 Weeks of October 11 - November 15 Sundays 8:30 am

Messiah, Pastor Donna Rohrer

Faith & Finances, Pastor Chick Lane Prayer School, Pastor Karen Sue 11 am Greimel and Cynthia & Larry Pivec 6 pm Parenting Our Teens–Part 2

9:45 am

Discover Jesus, Pastor Donna Rohrer Baptism Class (one class Nov. 8), Pastor Sarah Bunge

Mondays 7 pm

33 The Series–Part 2, Don Clark

Messiah, Pastor Donna Rohrer

LIFELONG LEARNING AT LORD OF LIFE LUTHERAN

For class descriptions, instructor bios, and to register—visit lordoflife.org/L5.

Wednesdays 6:30 pm

Parenting Our Teens–Part 2

Thursdays 6:30 pm

Let Your Light Shine–Part 2, Dottie Sterling with Lisa McCarty

Lord of Life member Gretchen Peel educates and enlightens during the Session 1 class, Juicy Fruits, the fruit/gifts of the Holy Spirit from the New Testament book of Galatians.

Step out in faith and register for a Session 2 L5 class!

Lord of Life Ministries

In L5 Session 1’s Discover the Bible class, Pastor Donna Rohrer shares insight about different translations of the Bible such as the King James version, NIV, NRSV, The Living Bible, and The Message, amongst others.

October 2015 11

Christians Reaching Out in Social Service (CROSS)— After three years of representing CROSS, Donna Walther and Kathy Gillett are stepping down. Please thank them for their service as Lord of Life representatives to CROSS!

Create Hope and Bring Joy

by Donna Walther CROSS exemplifies people helping people, people collaborating to strengthen community, and people whose words and actions create hope and bring joy. Many lives in our community are touched by CROSS; here are a few examples.

A woman drove to CROSS for much-needed food for her family. She was distraught because she didn’t have enough gas to drive home or any money to buy gas. The staff at CROSS found one remaining gas gift card to give the grateful woman.

A mother came into CROSS and was concerned that she would not have enough food for her children when home from school for the summer. A CROSS family advocate reassured her that there were extra food items, as well as extra produce (much of it donated from Lord of Life’s LifeGARDEN). She was very grateful.

A parent was praying for a solution to get Christmas presents for her children. Her 3-year-old was in the hospital; she was busy spending time with her. The mom wrote a letter of thanks to CROSS for giving her the opportunity to pick out presents at the Christmas Toy Shop (held at Lord of Life). She said the smiles on her children’s faces were priceless as they opened gifts in the hospital Christmas morning.

And here are a few statistics identifying the impact of CROSS in our community from this past July: •

519 household foodshelf visits

•

delivered 798 Meals on Wheels

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43 community partner referrals

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82,521 pounds of food were distributed

•

helped 18 families with financial assistance

You can help CROSS by donating your goods, money, and/or time. On October 4 between worship services, CROSS will be in the narthex with more information— please stop by! The next session for Lord of Life volunteers is Wednesday, October 14, 5-7:30 pm or the third Wednesday every month thereafter.

Lord of Life Ministries

Lord of Life is seeking a representative or two to be our voice at CROSS. Representative(s) would need to attend a meeting at CROSS once a month and Adult Ministry meetings here at church. If interested, contact Karen Nelson at 763.420.5015 x138 or karenn@lordoflife.org.

12 October 2015

On October 1 and 29, from 4-6 pm, save up to 40% on fresh fruits, vegetables, and frozen meats at Lord of Life. The Food Group passes on bulk savings by purchasing from wholesalers—the same place grocery stores get their food. Cash, credit, debit, and EBT cards are accepted; unfortunately, they do not accept personal checks. It’s “food that makes cents!”

men’s breakfast As shared in September’s LifeTIMES, the men’s quarterly breakfast is on Saturday, October 10, at 7:30 am in Fellowship Hall. Tom Lundquist of InnerChange Freedom Initiative (IFI) will be joined by a couple guys who have completed the IFI program. Plan to attend and learn how God does amazing work through guys just like you.

All men are welcome; bring a friend!

The breakfast is a freewill offering.

Register on the bulletin board at church or visit lordoflife.org/realmen.

inspired images All are welcome! If you enjoy stamping or scrapbooking, painting or knitting, or any other creative projects, you are invited to join in.

Saturday, Oct. 10: 9 am-3 pm for service projects followed by personal project time and fellowship Saturday, Nov. 21: 9 am-3 pm for service projects followed by personal project time and fellowship Friday, Dec. 4: 7-11 pm, off-site Christmas party Saturday, Jan. 23: 9 am-3 pm for service projects followed by personal project time and fellowship Saturday, March 5: 9 am-3 pm for service projects followed by personal project time and fellowship April 7-10: Mt. Carmel Retreat in Alexandria, Minnesota Visit lordoflife.org/inspired images for more details.

rite of confirmation / affirmation of baptism

parent night out (PNO) Two PNOs are coming up: Friday, October 2, and Friday, November 6, from 6-10 pm for all children and their families, birth-5th grade.

Volunteers from Lord of Life’s adult and high school ministries, along with the CYF staff, will entertain and lead your children while you get a night out, a night off, a little time for you. There is no fee; you are invited to make a donation to help support Lord of Life ministries. Register now at lordoflife.org/parentnightout for the October 2 PNO. Registration for the November 6 PNO opens October 5.

This October, over 150 Lord of Life 10th graders will affirm their baptism in the rite of confirmation. Please join us on Saturday, October 24, and Sunday, October 25, as we bless and support these young people!

Services are at 1:30 and 3:30 pm on both days. More info at lordoflife.org/ affirmationofbaptism.

service and movie night

Wednesday, October 14, 5-10 pm Grades 7-9 come together at 5 pm then head to Feed My Starving Children in Coon Rapids to serve.

When we return to Lord of Life, we will have pizza and pop and watch a movie. It’s going to be an awesome time! Cost is $5 per person (50 youth maximum).

grades 1-4 release day

Thursday, October 15, 9 am-5 pm You are invited for a trip to Minnetonka Orchards with a pumpkin patch tour, hay ride, and then the Junie B. Jones musical at Stages Theater. Cost is $30.

Please bring a bag lunch and wear appropriate attire for the weather— we’ll visit the orchard rain or shine.

Please register at lordoflife.org/ releaseday.

club 56 service day

october weekly schedule C3 and middle school/high school

Sundays: October 4, 11 5-6 pm: C3 groups (7th & 8th grade only) 5:15-6:30 pm: Family meal 6-7 pm: C3 groups / L5 class 7-7:45 pm: Ecclesia Worship in Samaritan Hall 7:45-8:45 pm: Explore middle school youth group

Express high school youth group Wednesdays: October 7, 21 4:30-5:30 pm: C3 groups 5:30-6:30 pm: Family meal 6:30-7:30 pm: C3 groups / L5 class

confirmation retreats

Register at lordoflife.org/c3retreats 7th Grade, Camp Onomia, October 3-4 8th Grade, Camp Onomia, October 10-11 We will head up to Camp Onomia in Onamia, Minnesota, for an awesome weekend filled with games, small group time, worship, and a little time to relax or play. We’ll stay in the retreat center with 6-10 people per room. Each room has its own bathroom and shower.

Meet at Lord of Life at 8 am, Saturday, and return at 2 pm, Sunday.

Lord of Life Ministries

Thursday, October 15, 8:45 am-5 pm For grades 5-6, MEA weekend release is Service Day! We will spend the day serving in the Twin Cities; locations include Feed My Starving Children (bring your quarters for the donation bin!) and Matter More. At the end of the day, we will have Bible study and large group games. Bring a bag lunch and wear closed toe shoes. Cost is $30 per youth (75 youth maximum).

four services october 24/25

October 2015 13

Faith Milestones Milestones are special events that mark our life journey. We pass on the faith by celebrating occasions on our faith journey as well. Here are the parent/child faith events for the upcoming school year: 2-year-olds learn about family devotions 3-year-olds talk about Advent 4-year-olds study worship

�unky Faithfu�

There was fellowship, face-painting, wonderful food, and funky Christian music.

Thank you to Rachel Kurtz as well as Julius Collins and the Sons of Almighty for their fabulous performances!

And a special thank you to Lord of Life staff and volunteers for their work with this community outreach event.

November 28/29 February 27/28

Kindergarten/5-year-olds learn to read the Bible

January 9/10

1st graders experience many forms of prayer

February 5/6

2nd graders learn about Faith 5 family devotions Funky Faithful was a fun youth/family gathering on September 4 attended by 200+ folks in Lord of Life’s great backyard.

October 3/4

April 9/10

3rd graders attend the Bible Learning Event

October 10/11

3rd graders receive Bibles

October 24/25

4 graders learn about stewardship

November 7/8

th

5th graders attend a Communion Festival

March 12 or 14

5th grade First Communion Weekend

April 2/3

6th grade What’s Next? intro to confirmation 10th grade Affirmation of Baptism (confirmation)

May 1 Oct 24/25

12 grade Senior High Graduation Recognition th

May 15

Families will receive information prior to specific milestones for their children. Please contact Lynn Leisen at lynnl@lordoflife.org if questions.

Third Grader Special Events

Third graders have very special events in October. October 10/11 during regular Church School times, parents and third graders meet in Fellowship Hall to learn about the Bible.

On Saturday and Sunday, October 24/25, third grade students will receive an Adventure Bible during their regular Church School time. Children will check in at the kiosks, and with parents, go to Fellowship Hall. Parents then go to worship. Parents will be invited forward to stand at the altar behind their child during the service.

After the presentation, children will return to their seats with their parents and continue worship. Find more information at lordoflife. org/thirdgradebibles.

Lord of Life Ministries

These are exciting milestones in the lives of third graders. Please pray for the third graders and their families as they study God’s word in the Bible and the important messages it contains.

14 October 2015

October Bible Verse: Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue, but with actions and truth. I John 3:18

Happy October!

October Book Pick

I See Kindness Everywhere

by Shelly Frost A little girl gives thanks for all the kindness around her, from the people who made her socks to those who gave her berries.

by Angie Schiebel, Director of Karing Kingdom Preschool The season of autumn is upon us. In discovering this season of picturesque change, we will begin our month venturing to Eastman Nature Center; a naturalist will walk us through this time of transformation. More fall fun will include acorns, the changing of leaves, and pumpkins, pumpkins, pumpkins! There will be plenty of Halloween fun, topped off with parades and a party on October 29/30. With autumn comes preparation for hibernation; we’ll learn about our friend, the bear, and how he plans for the winter.

The October G.L.O.W. (Giving Little Ones Wisdom) topic, sponsored by Maple Grove Fire Department, is “Our Escape Plan.”

Karing Kingdom’s Chapel Chat theme for October is the Parable of the Wise and Foolish Builders.

Karing Kingdom’s October Kindness Projects will be collecting personal care items for the Ronald McDonald House, making Grab-and-Go Bags for Hope Lodge residents, and distributing Operation Christmas Child boxes. ‘Kindness’ is the act of tenderness, compassion, generosity, and charity.

For more information about Karing Kingdom Preschool, please contact us at kingdom@lordoflife.org or call 763.420.5015 x127.

Spring Seed, Fall Flower

Lord of Life Ministries

Thank you to Justin & Gina Gaspard (left), Naomi Chauvin (center), and Brooke & Bianca Wallin for sharing their fun sunflower photos.

October 2015

15

LO R D O F L I F E L U T H E RA N CHU R CH (E LCA )

Nonprofit

7401 County Road 101, Maple Grove, MN 55311-4313 phone 763.420.5015 fax 763.420.7286 web lordoflife.org

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 November issue is October 1. Copyright © 2015 Lord of Life Lutheran Church

R E T U RN SE RVICE RE Q U E ST E D

Attention veterans and active duty military—

D A T EE— E 13 H T E SAV , NOVEMB R F R I D AY

save Friday, November 13, on your calendar for Lord of Life’s Military Family Support Ministry’s Veterans Dinner. Stay tuned to November’s LifeTIMES for more information.

caught reading lifetimes Active military at Camp Ederle in Vicenza, Italy—Isaac and Sarah Hanninen with daughters Emma and baby Madelyn are caught reading LifeTIMES. Isaac is the son of Bill and Linda Carlyon who recently visited them in Italy.

In Mullen, Nebraska, Barrett Mieras (carrying turtles), Lenora Little, and Toni Mieras, holding Gianna, are caught reading LifeTIMES. Where else but a small town would folks have a ‘loaner turtle’ or two for the city kids to race!

16 October 2015

God’s Work.

Our Hands.

Acts 29 in Tuscaloosa, Alabama (see article on Page 7) Back row (left to right): Tom Wilson, Deb Ryan, Tom Spoden, Chris Lapham Middle row: Sharon & Oly Quast, Gehry Sower, Al Peterson, Craig Zinter, Missy Benson Front row: Peter Salemme (Habitat), Gary & Barb Modlin, Michelle & Merle Waldron, Kermit Amann