LifeTIMES
A monthly ministry of Lord of Life Lutheran Church of Maple Grove, Minnesota
September 2016
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
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@lolcyf
Lord of Life exists to proclaim the saving grace of Jesus Christ and for its faith community to witness and serve God gratefully in daily life. —Lord of Life’s Global Ends Policy
PASTORAL S TAF F Rev. Sarah Bunge, Pastor of Evangelism and Worship, sarahb@lordoflife.org Rev. Dr. Karen Geisendorfer-Lindgren, Pastor of Programming, Learning, and Missions, karengl@lordoflife.org Rev. Peter Geisendorfer-Lindgren, Senior Pastor, peter@lordoflife.org Rev. Karen Sue Greimel, Pastor of Pastoral Care, ksgreimel@lordoflife.org Rev. Charles ‘Chick’ Lane, Pastor of Stewardship and Generosity, chickl@lordoflife.org Rev. David McCarty, Pastor of Outreach and Missions, davem@lordoflife.org Rev. Donna Rohrer, Pastor of Adult Education, donnar@lordoflife.org Kari Lyn Wampler, Pastoral Intern, karilynw@lordoflife.org
TAB LE O F CO N T E N T S Cover Art / Pastor’s Article........................................................................... Pages 2-3 September Worship / Music........................................................................ Pages 4-5 Lord of Life’s Family of Faith....................................................................... Pages 6-7 Call Committee Update / Generosity...........................................................Pages 8-9 Lifelong Learning...................................................................................... Pages 10-12 Lord of Life Ministries............................................................................... Pages 13-18 Karing Kingdom Preschool............................................................................. Page 19
C O V ER ART Thank you to watercolor artist Sandra Jakubic for sharing her work with Lord of Life. “This painting of a Chinese Maple Tree was inspired by a garden magazine cover photograph.” Sandy says. “I enjoyed the colors in it.” She has been painting since kindergarten, recalls how fun it was, and how she couldn’t wait for the next time they painted in class. Her aunt gave her oil paints as a gift when she was eight years old. She began to watercolor with a friend in South Carolina in 2012 and that is now her preferred medium. Sandy participates in Lord of Life’s 9 am Tuesday painting class. One of several artists who shared their work this past summer in Fellowship Hall’s informal art gallery, Beauty in God’s World, Sandy says, “It’s a great group and we all learn from each other.” There is no need to register, bring your supplies, and join in. See Page 9 for a watercolor by the painting class’ coleader, Susan Manrodt. Thanks again, Sandy, for sharing your gifts!
2 September 2016
Lifelong
God’s Incredible Love for Us by Pastor Donna Rohrer
Soon the leaves will change colors, the heat of this summer will be stories to share, and the excitement of the “new” things that will start in September will be the focus for many of us. Swimsuits and water toys will be put away and pictures and stories of the fun will be remembered with, hopefully, smiles. Yet, anticipation of what is ahead excites us, too. Seasonal changes are a great reminder of the wonder-filled God who created all this beauty. Our awesome God does other great things, too, to remind us of never-ending love. This fall, be excited in a way that may be new to you. Be eager to learn what is in the best-selling-every-year-book, the Bible! This year take that step and join in a Bible study. There are a lot of options. Sunday mornings there will be pastor-led studies where you are invited to come when you can. At 9:45 am, each week will be a stand-alone class, so you can come when it works for you. There are other classes, too. Discover the Bible will ease you into finding your way around this wonderful book as well as helping you understand the way it ties together to show God’s incredible love for us. And who doesn’t love Ezekiel and the story of ‘dem dry bones’? Prayer School continues to be a wonderful place to come and learn to deepen your relationship with God. Meet with others at 11 am on Sundays. You can also make new friends who share your love of God and are also children of God, loved beyond measure. See you in class! In addition to Pastor Donna’s three Bible studies described below, see August’s LifeTIMES, as well as Pages 10-12 in this issue, or visit lordoflife.org/lifelonglearning for more details.
Learning 8:30 am Discover the Bible Sundays beginning Sept. 18 - Oct. 9 Are you feeling a tug to dig deeper into God’s Word, but aren’t sure how to start? Come join in as we discover how to find our way through the Bible and how this best-selling book is telling the story of God’s love for all creation.
lordoflife.org/lifelonglearning and Pages 10-12 8:30 am The Christmas Story Sundays beginning Oct. 23 Nov. 13 How many wise men came to visit Jesus? Were they kings? It is early, but come and learn what is in Scripture, what has become tradition surrounding this miraculous event, and why this story is told in different ways. It is the beginning of the greatest story ever told!
Pastor’s Article
7 pm Ezekiel Mondays beginning Sept. 12 The first part of Ezekiel shows why God must punish the wicked people still in Judah. The second part shows that God will bring His people back to their land and that their faith and position before God will be restored. Ezekiel is captive in Babylon when he writes this book. We will learn how, even when things look very dark, God is still with us. And, I know two songs from the stories in this book! —Pastor Donna
September 2016 3
september worship and music
Sing We All Noel
September 3/4 Pastor Sarah Bunge Saturday: Praise Band Sunday: Halee Donalson September 10/11 Pastor Peter Geisendorfer-Lindgren Saturday: Praise Band Sunday: Canticle Choir and Lord of Life Brass September 17/18 Pastor Peter Geisendorfer-Lindgren Saturday: Praise Band Sunday: New Life Ensemble September 24/25 One Mission One World Weekend (see next page) Pastor Dave McCarty Saturday: Praise Band Sunday: Men’s Duet with Joseph Ellickson and Peter Middlecamp (8:30 am), Canticle Choir (9:45 and 11 am), SUNDAY NIGHT LIVE! (7 pm - see Page 20)
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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, September 18, worship at 10 am at Good Samaritan - Ambassador in New Hope (see article on Page 14 from Georgia Helvick) Third Wednesday, September 21, worship at 1 pm at Arbor Lakes Senior Living in the 2nd floor community room and at 2:30 pm at Rose Arbor Worship and Music
Assisted Living in their red room Worship and music schedules are subject to change.
4 September 2016
Sunday, December 18: performances at 3:30 and 6 pm children’s choirs From 6-7 pm on Thursday, September 8, all children’s choir groups are starting up for the fall. Alleluia is for children in kindergarten-grade 2, Joyful Noise is for children in grades 3-8. Please register at lordoflife. org/childrenschoir. Ring and Sing also begins on Thursday, September 8, and classes are on Tuesdays at 10-10:45 am and Thursdays at 6:15-7 pm. This is an ‘in the beginning’ adult-child music class geared for children 18 months-5 years old. You do not need to register for Ring and Sing (see Page 15 for photos from a class). For this year’s children’s Christmas musical, Sing We All Noel, there are no auditions. In addition to the children’s choirs, all Church School children will be involved in the performances on Sunday, December 18. Post-performance receptions will also be planned. Save the date!
adult choirs Bel Canto, Lord of Life’s bell choir, rehearsals begin on Wednesday, September 14, at 6 pm. Previous bell experience, or comparable music experience, is encouraged. New Life Ensemble welcomes additional singers. The ensemble sings contemporary Christian, gospel, or world music with a band once a month (September-May). The first rehearsal is Saturday, September 17, at 9:30 am. Canticle Choir rehearsals begin on Wednesday, August 31, at 7:15 pm. Open to adults from high school to seniors, Canticle Choir shares their gifts three Sundays per month with a major work with orchestra in December. Come and see!
questions? Pastor Sarah Bunge, Worship and Evangelism . . . . . . . . . . . . sarahb@lordoflife.org Dana Craig, Worship Coordinator/Children’s Choirs . . . . . . . danac@lordoflife.org David Frank, Director of Music/New Life Ensemble . . . . . . . . davidf@lordoflife.org Lee Fuchs, Bel Canto/Canticle Choir . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . leef@lordoflife.org Kara Larson, Ring and Sing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . karal@lordoflife.org
Hear testimonies during worship for One Mission One World (1M1W) weekend on September 24/25—
What God Is Doing by Pastor Dave McCarty
Lord of Life has mission projects and partners as close as Corcoran and as far away as China—that diversity is what led to the name: One Mission One World. As followers of Christ, each one of us is called to carry out the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20a) to the world. On September 24/25, many Lord of Life servants will come to say thank you to you, the congregation, plus share stories and pictures of what God is doing. Ministries will have tables in Fellowship Hall with representatives eager to talk with you. Please join in and celebrate all that God is doing through Lord of Life’s 1M1W ministries: Acts 29 works across the U.S. repairing damage to homes caused by natural disaster, working together with the families. The Dominican Republic (DR) missionaries work in the DR on construction projects, community outreach, and dental care. They serve God in one of the poorest areas in one of the poorest countries in the western hemisphere. FreedomWorks post-prison ministry in Minneapolis has been helping former offenders reconcile to God, family, and community since 2004. It transforms predators into peacemakers, criminals into upstanding citizens, and absent fathers into loving dads. Global Health Administration Partners (GHAP) improves the administrative capacity of partnering mission hospitals and health care agencies in developing countries. Jamaica is a ‘vacation with a purpose’ where Lord of Lifers use their spiritual gifts and share God’s love and blessings with children at Westhaven Children’s Home and Clifton Boys’ Home.
‘The Bible Project’ for children in Namibia.
Source Minnesota in south Minneapolis has been a friend and a voice to the marginalized and skeptical. This includes young adults who may be homeless and affected by prostitution or drug use. St. Olaf Lutheran Church is engaged in exciting ministry in north Minneapolis. For more than 140 years, St. Olaf has served as a beacon in its community, bringing the neighborhood together to worship God. The Holy Land ministry raises awareness, provides scholarships, and supports existing Lutheran organizations in Palestine. See photo at right of the Augusta Victoria Hospital’s olive grove.
Two of Lord of Life’s newest 1M1W ministries are Namibia (above) and The Holy Land (below).
Uganda missionaries fund feeding programs, sponsor Vision Nursery School and the Kenyan Refugee Relief program, support a widow support program and digging village wells. World Mission Prayer League (WMPL) prays for over 100 Lutheran missionaries serving in 20 countries. Lord of Life provides financial support for one of these missionary families.
A Lutheran World Federation hospital, Augusta Victoria, provides the only cancer treatment available for Palestinians on the West Bank and Gaza. This photo is of the hospital’s olive tree grove on their property at the Mount of Olives in Jerusalem.
One Mission One World Weekend
Mobile Hope at Maple Hill Estates is just around the corner in Corcoran. Mobile Hope honors God by building a culture of achievement assisting families to succeed, students to excel, and the community to share hope.
Namibia works toward assuring access to education for orphaned and vulnerable children as over 1,500 children (age 5-15 years) reside in 19 youth hostels spread across Namibia. See photo at right of The Bible Project.
September 2016 5
Call Committee Update
Lord of Life’s Call Committee is excited to report that we have moved into the next phase of our lead pastor search with the beginning of the interview process. We have had several telephone conversations with prospective candidates, conducted informal interviews, and will begin the formal interview process as this LifeTIMES arrives in your mailbox. What are the desired requirements and characteristics for a lead pastor? •
Pursues a Christ-like life, including integrity, humility, compassion, and evangelism
•
Successful ELCA senior pastor or accomplished associate in a large congregation
•
Managing style of a visionary, executive-type leader, including a willingness to support and have faith in Lord of Life’s Ends Policies (available at lordoflife.org/council)
•
Engaging preacher who makes Christ’s life relevant to the entire congregation
•
Financially astute with the ability to assume leadership of all aspects of Lord of Life’s mission and ministry
What are additional major areas to consider? •
Desire for long-term commitment to Lord of Life
•
Leadership, vision, strategy, and management skills
•
Well-grounded in Lutheran theology
•
Preaching is strong, positive, and authentic
•
A calming demeanor and other strong social skills
castle church wittenberg, germany
What is the timeline? Our timeline continues to be fluid and is dependent on the wants and needs of each candidate. Pastor Peter, Pastor Karen, Lord of Life’s Council and the call committee are all in agreement and will do whatever is necessary to make the succession plan work. Will the congregation get to ‘meet & greet’ the candidate prior to a congregational vote? Yes. Once the preferred candidate is selected, s/he will be recommended to Lord of Life’s Council who will then vote on presenting the candidate to the congregation for a ‘meet & greet’ prior to a congregational vote. What can you do? Continue to offer your prayers and support as the Holy Spirit guides us through this process. Alan Albrecht, chair, with Skip Lieser, Susan Listberger, Tina McCarty, Gretchen Peel Merle Waldron, council president Pastor Karen Geisendorfer-Lindgren, advisor Pastor Peter Geisendorfer-Lindgren, advisor The call committee is committed to open communication. Submit questions or comments at lordoflife.org/callcommittee; more details are also on that page.
Get Ready, Get Set, Let’s Go! Get your lederhosen on and join in on Thursday, September 15, 6:30 pm, for an informational meeting about a Lord of Life trip to Germany: In the Footsteps of Martin Luther, Celebrating 500 years of the Reformation. As announced in last month’s LifeTIMES, the dates for this trip are October 13-22, 2017, with an extended option to visit Prague in the Czech Republic. We will share details, costs, and other information during this meeting, so come and
6 September 2016
Pastor Donna Rohrer (donnar@lordoflife.org). © Wikipedia
Call Committee Update
learn more. If you have questions before the meeting, contact
Celebrate Recovery meets every Tuesday at Lord of Life—
Starting Fresh
by Pastor Chick Lane This is an exciting time of year. It is often a very hectic time of year, but exciting as well. The lazy, hazy days of summer are in the rearview mirror and the bustling days of fall are here. School is starting. Activities at church are ramping up. All of life seems more than a little busier. This time of year is also the time of a fresh start. Kids are making a fresh start with new teachers, new classes, maybe even a new friend or two. Adults are making a fresh start with new schedules, and maybe even a new activity or two. This is a great time of year to start fresh with a new involvement at church. Many, many things are starting up again, which makes this a good time to get involved in something new. Maybe you’ve been thinking about singing in the choir. This is a perfect time to join. Maybe you have been wanting to participate in a men’s ministry or Word for Women. Again, this is a perfect time to join. Maybe you have been eyeing a service opportunity— now is a great time to get involved. One striking thing about Lord of Life is the variety of opportunities for service that are available, and just how eager people already involved in a ministry are to have new members. One of the great things about the Christian life is that God doesn’t say, “You should be involved in this specific ministry.” God does say we should serve others, and then God leaves it up to us to figure out the details. September is probably the best month of the year to figure out the details. How is God calling you to serve others? What sounds like it would be meaningful for you? What might you really enjoy? Starting fresh means stepping out in a new way. Is this the month when you do that?
When My Life Hit Bottom ...
“When my life hit bottom over a decade ago,” says national recording artist Heather Layne, “I felt lost, confused, and wondered why I was even breathing. But at my lowest point was where I discovered that I was a songwriter!” Lord of Life’s Celebrate Recovery ministry invites you to hear beautiful, original music and testimony from Heather Layne on Tuesday, September 27, at 6:30 pm. Please join us in welcoming Heather to our faith community—bring a friend! For more details about Celebrate Recovery and this event—as well as a sample of Heather’s inspiring music—visit lordoflife.org/celebraterecovery.
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“
Stewardship of Time and Talents—
... God doesn’t say, “You should be involved in this specific ministry.”
God does say we should serve others and then leaves it up to us to figure out the details. —Pastor Chick Lane
Budget Year-to-date July 2016 Actual
Total member contributions All other
$1,955,999 $1,822,819 $138,826
Total receipts
Budget
Difference $133,180
$142,949
($4,123)
$2,094,825 $1,965,768
$129,057
Lord of Life Weekly Giving — July 2016 $80,000 $70,000 $60,000 $50,000 $40,000 $30,000 $20,000 $10,000 $0
7/3 7/10 7/17 7/24 7/31
Actual Budget
$52,284 $45,844
$72,261 $45,844
$63,596 $59,805 $47,650 = $295,597 $45,844 $45,844 $45,844 = $229,220
Generosity
September 2016 7
Lord of Life’s
Family
baptisms At Lord of Life, we baptize individuals at any age. The next baptism class will be Sunday, September 18, at 11 am. No registration is necessary. To schedule a baptism, please call the church office (763.420.5015). July 10 Nolan Jeffrey Dahl Westen David Geurts Maxwell Walter Locke July 17 Madelyn Jean Anderson Declan Daniel Devitt Zachary Blake Healy Finley Joshua Kath Dean Peter Lofgren Eve B Lofgren Clyde Daly Miller July 24 Sonia Maria Behr Madelyn Avery Bolanos Jack Allen Hooker Sadie Elizabeth Truso Brielle Ava Wilson James Joseph Wilson Jr. Sophie Grace Wilson July 31 Ryan Marie Borgstahl Brooklyn Elizabeth Hampton Lily Brooklyn Varland
weddings July 2 Dana Brinton & Deric Craig July 9 Shelby Funfar & Joey Cassens Caitlin Kern & Connor Mahoney Ashley Norcutt & Lucas Grow Alanda Povroznik & Jon Broman July 23 Karen Rindfleisch & Adam Knutson July 30 Elizabeth “Biz” Behrens & Patrick Brinton
welcome to new members Adam From & Angela Champagne-From with Asher Aaron & Kacey Gregerson with Ellie Harlan Schmidt Ryan & Kari Schulzetenberg with Parker, Jackson, and Mya
bereavements Prayers of sympathy for those who are grieving the loss of a loved one; may they be comforted in the promise of the resurrection. Bret & Kimberly Caywood and family at the death of their brother-in-law Doug Ende and family at the death of his mother
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 Lord of Life’s family of faith.
Luke Ende and family at the death of his grandmother Diane Erickson and family at the death of her aunt Bonnie Mallberg and family at the death of her aunt
Family of Faith
Mo Orendorff and family at the death of her friend
8 September 2016
Have you had a baptism or wedding in your family—or are you a new member? You are invited to share a photo for these ‘Family of Faith’ pages. In addition, you are invited to share faith stories/testimonies, original creative writing, photographs, or other artwork. For details, please contact LifeTIMES Editor Bev Mello (bevm@lordoflife.org).
of
Faith
God’s Wings by Zola Kay Dasinger
During the summer of 2016, there have been intense, massive, deadly wildfires in California and other western states. From time-to-time, our national parks have endured intense wildfires; it’s noteworthy this year marks the centennial of the national park system. In 1988, our family lived in Montana. That summer, forest fires in Yellowstone National Park brought smoke, visible ashes, and hazy days to our community 205 miles away. After one of those fires in Yellowstone, forest rangers began their trek to assess the inferno’s damage. One ranger found a bird literally petrified in ashes. Somewhat sickened by the eerie sight, he knocked over the bird with a stick. When he gently struck it, three tiny chicks scurried from under their dead mother’s wings. The loving mother, keenly aware of impending disaster, had carried her offspring to the base of the tree and gathered them under her wings—instinctively knowing that toxic smoke would rise. She could have flown to safety but refused to abandon her babies. Then the blaze had arrived and the heat had scorched her small body. The mother remained steadfast ... because she had been willing to die, so those under the cover of her wings would live.
This story from today’s world reflects the unfailing deep love Jesus has for you, for me, and for all individuals—past and present—who have walked this earth. God’s wings are referred to in these Bible verses: He will cover you with His feathers, and under His wings you will find refuge; His faithfulness will be your shield. Psalm 91:4 How priceless is your unfailing love! Both high and low among men find refuge in the shadow of your wings. Psalm 36:7 Jesus said, “O Jerusalem, Jerusalem ... how often I have longed to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings.” Luke 13:34 Being loved this much should make a difference in my life, and in your life. Jesus does not want to lose any for whom He willingly died. So He ‘gathers’ us through fellowship with other believers, through the Bible, through communion and baptism. He ‘gathers’ us and holds us close under His wings with His worldwide, loving embrace.
Family of Faith
A very special thank you to Zola Kay Dasinger and Susan Manrodt for sharing their creative work with the Lord of Life family of faith.
September 2016 9
Lifelong Learning ‘Save the date’ for these one-time offerings:
September
Thursday, Sept. 15, 7 - 8:30 pm, Lisa Toms Elder Care Transitions or ‘Oh my goodness, what are we going to do about Mom and Dad now!’ Until an unexpected life event happens—most of us really don’t know much about this subject. And then, many decisions need to be made with a loved one. Learn from an experienced leader in senior housing, assisted living, and memory care who will provide relevant information as well as helpful reference materials.
October
Sunday, Oct. 16, at 9:45 and 11 am, Augsburg College Professor Mark Tranvik The Art of Living Inside Out: Martin Luther’s ‘Freedom of a Christian’ for Today Most of us spend too much time chained to the ‘performance principle’ or the idea that our self-worth or status is dependent on how we look, what we have achieved, or what others think of us. Martin Luther suggests that at the heart of the Christian faith is a liberating message of freedom. In Christ we are freed from self-concern to be of service to our neighbor and the world.
Lifelong Learning
November
Sunday, Nov. 20, at 9:45 and 11 am with Senior Pastor Peter Geisendorfer-Lindgren The Christian Church in the United States: Where is it headed and what does that mean for Lord of Life?
10 September 2016
Pastors’ Drop-in Bible Study 9:45 am on Sundays A Study of Philippians Beginning Sept. 18 - Oct. 9 Bring your coffee and donut and come when you can. Each week is a stand-alone class. Pastor Karen Geisendorfer-Lindgren
Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Philippians 4:4 Philippians is the Apostle Paul’s letter of joy. Come and explore the difference between ‘happiness,’ which can depend on the current circumstances of our lives, and ‘joy,’ which depends on our Lord, Jesus Christ. Sept. 18, Joy in Suffering, Chapter One Sept. 25, Joy in Serving, Chapter Two Oct. 2, Joy in Believing, Chapter Three Oct. 9, Joy in Giving, Chapter Four
yo u can Co me when Sunday to all of the dies! morning stu
lordoflife.org/lifelonglearning and Pages 3, 10-12
Prayer School 9:45 am on Sundays 1 and 2 Corinthians
11 am on Sundays ASAP - Always Stop and Pray!
Oct. 23 More than love, we will talk about what it means to see dimly in our lives now. How does love fit into this? Pastor Donna Rohrer, 1 Corinthians 13
Beginning Sept. 18 Prayer School is the place where you get comfortable talking to, listening to, and understanding God. Each class offers a time of teaching, of practicing what you’ve learned, and of sharing. All are welcome— from beginners to seasoned prayer warriors—the Holy Spirit will meet you right where you are. Pastor Karen Sue Greimel with Cynthia and Larry Pivec
Oct. 30 and Nov. 6 Often called The Stewardship Chapters, Paul encourages Christian communities to care for one another, and encourages generosity as a vital component of Christian life. Pastor Chick Lane, 2 Corinthians 8 and 9 Nov. 13 Gifts for God - Each of us is a unique child of God with a role to play in the work of the kingdom. Living into that uniqueness brings the whole potential of the Spirit to life. Pastoral Intern Kari Lyn Wampler, 1 Corinthians 12:1 6 pm on Sundays Wholehearted Living Oct. 23 - Nov. 20 Engage from a place of worthiness while cultivating the courage, compassion and connection to create lives we want to live. Using Brené Brown’s The Gifts of Imperfection, embark on a spiritual journey that can lead to more fulfillment, self-acceptance, and deeper relationships. Pastoral Intern Kari Lyn Wampler
Lifelong Learning September 2016 11
Lifelong Learning 2B REAL Men
Word for Women
6 pm on Mondays Faith, Fellowship, Football We will discuss what true victory in life really looks like, what gets in the way, and how closely following Christ moves us down the field to victory. Small group discussion will include the book, The Ultimate Scoring Drive, and getting to know each other. After discussion at church, we’ll head to Rush Creek Golf Club and watch Monday Night Football together! Pastor Dave McCarty, beginning Sept. 12
9:30 - 11 am on Wednesdays
7 am on Tuesdays Faith, Fellowship, Football At Three Squares Restaurant in Maple Grove, we’ll have a chance to do a recap of the weekend’s (and Monday Night Football) games. Pastor Dave McCarty, beginning Sept. 13 Monthly Breakfasts Sept. 24: Learn about Lord of Life’s One Mission One World: Dominican Republic with Kirk Hoover. Oct. 22: Prayer School with Cynthia & Larry Pivec and Pastor Karen Sue Greimel. Nov. 19: Speaker and topic is to be decided.
Lifelong Learning
See the bulletin board or lordoflife.org/realmen for more information.
12
lordoflife.org/lifelonglearning and Pages 3, 10-11
September 2016
Idol Chatter Is God always first in your life or can some other things creep in and become your priority? Pastor Donna Rohrer, beginning Sept. 14 Enough For some, money may not bring greater happiness or satisfaction, but greater stress and anxiety. With the book, Enough, study the Bible’s financial wisdom with keys to experiencing contentment, overcoming fear, and discovering joy through simplicity and generosity. Pastor Chick Lane, every Wednesday in October
Are you older, wiser, or Lutheran? Even if you are not— you are always welcome to attend OWLs’ gatherings!
Older Wiser Lutherans september events
Thursday, September 8 (note date change): God in the Christian and Muslim Traditions. Hamline University’s Professor Deanna Thompson speaks on the Muslim faith and Christians living respectfully and peacefully with our Muslim neighbors. Noon with a freewill donation lunch. Thursday, September 15: Enjoy an outing to the Hennepin History Museum in south Minneapolis. Tour the exhibits which include the history of local theaters and portraits from the museum’s collection. Please note: must be able to climb 1½ flights of stairs. Lunch is at the Black Forest Inn, an historic Minneapolis restaurant serving authentic German food. Leave Lord of Life at 9 am and return by 2 pm. The all-inclusive cost is $20.
On July 14, the OWLs enjoyed a musical - comedy - murder mystery, Glensheen, at the Minnesota History Center’s theater.
Wednesday, September 21: Worship at Arbor Lakes at 1 pm and/or Rose Arbor Assisted Living at 2:30 pm. Friday, September 23: Service project in Fellowship Hall at 9:30 am labeling the October issue of LifeTIMES. Coffee’s always on and good fellowship abounds!
save the date Thursday, October 6: The Mississippi River Pearl Button Boom with guest JoAnn Funk. Come hear about the boom-and-bust industry making buttons from Mississippi River mussels in the late 1800s to early 1930s. This industry involved thousands of mussels up and down the river. It is a fascinating story of human cleverness, mass production, ecological ignorance, the labor movement, profit, fashion, and even murder. Invite a friend! We begin at noon in Fellowship Hall with a freewill donation lunch.
See the bulletin board or lordoflife.org/owls for more details of upcoming events and to register.
Older Wiser Lutherans
Thursday, October 20: The OWLs will tour the new home for the Minnesota Vikings—the US Bank Stadium. We leave church at 9:30 am and return by 3 pm. Cost is $18 with lunch on your own after the tour. This event is full, but we encourage you to contact Karen Nelson (763.420.5015 x138 or karenn@lordoflife.org) to be placed on a waiting list.
July 7’s Faith, Food, and Fellowship event theme was ‘Young and Old.’ A lawyer in Luke 10 asked Jesus, “Who is my neighbor?” Young neighbors in our own community need beds. Beds for Kids Project Manager Kevin Lenz (below) told the OWLs how this need is being met and shared pictures of happy recipients. The Good Samaritan Society - Ambassador ministry leader, Georgia Helvick (at right), shared the joy of being a friend to our old neighbors through volunteering. See next page for an article by Georgia on how you can help.
September 2016 13
Something fun that may even change your life—
Lutheran Social Service (LSS) and Lord of Life—
by Georgia Helvick Do you have the gift for gab? Want to enhance the lives of others? We are looking for you! Good Samaritan Society Ambassador is currently working on a very exciting project to enhance the meal service for its residents at their facility in New Hope. Staff is so busy preparing the meals and/or feeding those who need help, there is not enough time for them to provide extra socialization that makes a difference in their residents’ day.
by Sandy Munson It’s that time of year when we collect new and gently used clothing for sale to clients of the LSS Center for Changing Lives (CFCL) in south Minneapolis. We served 30 more families last year—143 families with 554 children!
There’s Dignity in This
Mealtime is the highlight of a resident’s day; we want to make it more of an experience. We are looking for volunteers, Meal Companions, to complement the staff serving meals. It is basically greeting the residents, taking their meal order, serving the food, and most importantly, engaging the residents in conversation. A resident shares, “You sit down and you get waited on—there’s dignity in this; it makes people feel special.” We are currently looking for volunteers who would like to serve at any of the three daily meals, an hour per meal, the time commitment is up to you. From one meal a month, to more if you prefer, they even offer training! If this isn’t the right fit for you, maybe joining the third Sunday worship service at Good Samaritan offered by Lord of Life members would work. We are currently in need of a person to give the monthly message and are always in need of musicians and soloists. There is also a large group of men at ‘Good Sam’ that would love to visit with other men about, you know, manly stuff! These are simply a few of the current needs, but you can also visit the Lord of Life website (lordoflife.org/goodsamaritan) for additional volunteer opportunities. There are many different opportunities and time commitments to accommodate everyone! Contact me, Georgia Helvick (763.416.4577 or ghelvick@ comcast.net) or Jackie Dale from Ambassador (jdale@good-sam.com). You can change someone’s life ... maybe even your own.
Thank you all for cleaning out closets and donating clothing. We need clothing for birth through high school (which includes some larger & adult clothes for high school kids). Past years have been very slim on infant through size 12-14 clothes. Even with all the underwear and socks donated last year, they were all gone within the first 30 minutes of the sale—and that’s with a limit of one package of each per child. We also encourage the donation of school uniform garments for children in grades 4-8. Think khaki pants and plain white, black or navy polo shirts. September 18-October 4: Fall donation collection (LSS bin in the Service Center). Church School and C3 collection of new socks and underwear in packaging. Notes will be distributed through Church School and C3 students. Wednesday, October 5: Word for Women service project to sort all donated clothing. Friday, October 7: Volunteers needed! Transport and set-up all donations. Meet at church at 11:30 am to load clothes, finish about 3:30 pm. Saturday, October 8: Volunteers needed! Arrive at CFCL by 8:15 am for final check of the sales space, to have duties assigned, and to get acquainted. Sale begins at 9 am ending at 1 pm. Clean-up room and bag unsold clothes. Lunch and snacks provided! Teen volunteers (ages 11 and up) are welcome with an adult. Carpooling will be available for volunteers who prefer to share a ride from church. Contact me (rsmunson@ embarqmail.com) or Dawn Knight (rolltidebama1@ comcast.net) if you would like to volunteer. We are so grateful to Lord of Life for all the support and participation to make this clothing sale possible. There are many families working their way out of homelessness, and this sale of nice clothing for their children is very important to them. Thank you for your support.
Lord of Life Ministries 14
Children’s Clothing Sale
—Sandy Munson and Dawn Knight, co-chairs September 2016
An update from Lord of Life’s Military Family Support Ministry—
Thank You to So Many
by Michael Yu We would like to thank all the Lord of Life volunteers who helped at the Hamel Rodeo. This year we had 178 volunteers who contributed nearly 700 hours of rodeo support. We also had two dedicated ministry members, Jay Henrikson and Dale Mallberg, who volunteered to coordinate and represent Lord of Life throughout the year. Lord of Life’s confirmation kids helped contribute 41 volunteer hours. It’s so heartwarming for so many caring members who answered the call to volunteer for this event. From that support, we awarded three $500 college scholarships to the children of church members whose parent served in the military. Applicants were asked to share how they best identify with many of the military values. We were impressed with their answers and accomplishments. In fact, one of our awardees herself served in the Marines. We also recently sent several packages of candies and treats to airmen on deployment. Later this year, we will host the annual Veterans’ Dinner on Friday, November 4, to show our appreciation for those who served in the military. We look forward to continuing to support veterans in our church and communities with your volunteer efforts. To show our appreciation to our volunteers and to receive any feedback about their service, we will have cake on Rally Sunday, September 11 (the room location will be decided upon soon). In addition, there is an ‘official’ Hamel Rodeo Appreciation Dinner for all the volunteers. It is held at the Hamel VFW on Wednesday, September 28, at 6 pm. There is no rsvp required; the VFW is at 19020 Hamel Road, Plymouth, MN 55446 in downtown Hamel. Please look for any of the Lord of Life Military Family Support Ministry members wearing red shirts. Again, thank you to everyone at Lord of Life for your support.
Lord of Life Ministries
Come to the first week of Ring and Sing, make an instrument to take home, meet a new friend, and move with the music! These are participants in the Ring and Sing children’s choir led by Kara Larson (at right). See Page 4 for details on all Lord of Life children’s choir kick-offs for the fall!
September 2016
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It was a great summer! Hundreds of fabulous photos and tweets have been shared on social media sites: Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter (see urls on Page 2). This Instagram post is by a middle schooler, Clarissa Kulda, about her mission trip to Milwaukee.
Rally Week!
Kick-off for Church School, C3, Explore, and Express
Christ, Community, Confirmation (C )—
C3 Retreats
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7th Grade Retreat, October 1-2 8th Grade Retreat, October 8-9 These are opportunities for 7th and 8th grade confirmation students to step away from the routine of daily life, make new friends, and dig deep into a topic about faith and life. These overnight retreats are from SaturdaySunday at Camp Onomia. Cost is $77. Register at lordoflife.org/c3retreats.
September 10 / 11 Church School begins for ages 3 years-6th grade (2 year old parent/child first class is October 1/2) 5:30 pm Saturday or 8:30, 9:45, 11 am Sunday September 11 / 14 C3 (Christ, Community, Confirmation) begins at 5 or 6 pm on Sunday or 4:30 or 6:30 pm on Wednesday. Parents: For the first C3 session, you will join your student(s) for opening worship in the sanctuary, then attend their small group. This is for all 7-10 graders and parents. C3 leaders must attend a training session on either: Wednesday, September 7, 6:30-8 pm or Sunday, September 11, 3-4:30 pm
Family meals are 5:15 pm Sundays, 5:30 pm Wednesdays
September 18
Explore and Express begin from 7-8 pm
registration required asap
Lord of Life Ministries
If you have not already done so— Register for Church School (2 years through 6th grade): lordoflife.org/churchschool Register for confirmation (grades 7-10): lordoflife.org/c3
16 September 2016
Explore is when middle schoolers “play together and pray together” including games (wear comfortable clothes and shoes) and a great time to meet new friends or reconnect. End the evening with candlelit prayer and reflection time (i.e. community/individual prayers and/or journaling). Express is when high schoolers meet in The Gathering to catch up from the past week including devotions, games, prayer, and reconnecting with friends and God.
2016-17 Milestone Events
Milestones are special events that mark our life journey. We pass on the faith by celebrating occasions in our faith journey. Families will receive information prior to specific milestones for their children. Please contact Lynn Leisen (lynnl@lordoflife.org) if you have questions on these events. Here are the parent/child faith-formation events for the upcoming school year: 2-year-olds learn about family devotions
October 1/2
3-year-olds talk about Advent
November 26/27
4-year-olds study worship
February 4/5
Kindergarten/5-year-olds learn about reading the Bible 1st graders experience many forms of prayer
January 7/8 February 11/12
2nd graders learn about Faith 5 family devotions
April tbd
3rd graders attend Bible Learning Event
October 10/11
3 graders receive Bibles
October 29/30
4th graders learn about stewardship
November 5/6
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5th graders Communion Festival
March 18 or April 17
5th grade First Communion Worship Weekend 6th grade What’s Next? intro to confirmation 10 grade Affirmation of Baptism (confirmation) th
12th grade Senior High Graduation Recognition
April 22/23 May 7 or May tbd Oct 29/30 May 21
These young men enjoyed decorating “Grab ‘n Go” bags for Hope Lodge during a school release day. Given to cancer patients on their way to chemo treatment, these bags also included a Scripture verse for encouragement (at left). Register now at lordoflife.org/releaseday!
Release Day October 20 Youth in grades 1 - 5
Lord of Life Ministries
8 am - 5 pm
September September2016 2016 1713
One-on-One Support
Lord of Life’s Ministry of Inclusion welcomes children, youth, and families with all abilities to grow in their faith! One of the ways of supporting this mission is through the buddy program. It provides one-on-one support for children and youth with special needs during church programming. Buddies are dedicated volunteers who make it possible for a child or youth with special needs to be successful in the many programs such as Church School, C3, Vacation Bible School, and more. You can help a child while they grow in their faith. For more information on requesting a buddy or being a buddy, contact Ministry of Inclusion Lead Carly Tappe (carlyt@lordoflife.org). Beginning on September 13—
After School Program
On Tuesday afternoons, ASP gives 1 -5 graders faithbased programming after the school day. A Lord of Life bus will pick up Basswood, Rush Creek, and new this year, Meadow Ridge elementary students then bring them to Lord of Life. Parent pick up from Lord of Life is at or before 6 pm. The ASP fall session is September 13-December 13. Cost is $85 per child if s/he attends Basswood, Rush Creek or Meadow Ridge; $70 per child if s/he attends a school where transportation is not provided. st
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Register at lordoflife.org/afterschoolprogram. Questions? Contact Kelly Rodger (kellyr@lordoflife.org).
Register at lordoflife.org/familyretreat—
Time for Kalahari! A Kalahari family retreat is: •
Perfect for families of all sizes, shapes and ages
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A huge waterpark featuring appropriate areas for tots to seniors
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Great family fun including a climbing wall, bowling alley, arcade area, and movie theater
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A way to meet other Lord of Life families
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Faith-filled activities each evening and Sunday morning family worship
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November 4-6 at the Kalahari Resort in the Wisconsin Dells!
Lord of Life Ministries
God’s Work. Our Hands.
18 September 2016
A mountain of toilet paper to donate locally and over $3,000 to improve sanitation globally were Lord of Life’s summer service projects. Thank you for your generosity!
kalahari family retreat
november 4-6 Registration & details: lordoflife.org/familyretreat
September Bible Verse: Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 5:3
Happy September!
by Karing Kingdom Director Angie Scheibel
September Book Pick The Beatitudes for Children by Rosemarie Gortler and Donna Piscitelli Eight ways for children to grow closer to God. The Beatitudes for Children offers a positive guide for children to love and serve the Lord.
For more information about Karing Kingdom Preschool, contact us at kingdom@ lordoflife.org or call 763.420.5015 x127.
Yes, it’s time for school to begin, and we are so excited to welcome each and every one to Karing Kingdom Preschool. As we begin our 22nd year, we have to much fun in store—so let’s get started! We begin the month with Get Acquainted Day (Open House) on Thursday, September 8. This special day gives children and parents an opportunity to ‘meet & greet’ future classmates and teachers and to familiarize everyone with our school setting. The schedule for Get Acquainted Day is: Monday/Wednesday/Friday am pre-K class
9-9:45 am
Monday/Wednesday/Friday pm pre-K class
10-10:45 am
Tuesday/Thursday am 3-4 year old class
1-11:45 am
Tuesday/Thursday pm 3-4 year old class
12-12:45 pm
We officially welcome preschoolers on Monday, September 12 for Monday/Wednesday/ Friday students and Tuesday, September 13 for Tuesday/Thursday students. Friday, September 16, will be an all-school family picnic featuring WonderWeaver Storytellers beginning at 11 am. Lunch will be provided. Beginning the week of September 19, we will journey through the alphabet with “F” for the season of fall. We will harvest carrots, tomatoes, and squash that we planted in spring. The final week of September is the letter “S” for our five senses. The shape of the month is a circle. Our G.L.O.W. unit is fire drills. September’s Kindness Project will be collecting gently loved stuffed animals. When law enforcement officers come in contact with children, they will use these stuffed animals to show compassion and give reassurance to the children. Karing Kingdom’s Chapel Chat theme this year is the Beatitudes. See you soon!
K indness Project
Karing Kingdom Preschool
Karing Kingdom’s summer Kindness Project sent thank you notes to all police departments, sheriff’s offices, and state trooper’s offices in Minnesota—visit their parent board to see it filled with thank you notes!
September 2016 19
LO R D O F L I F E L U T H E RA N CHU R CH (E LCA ) 7401 County Road 101, Maple Grove, MN 55311-4313 phone 763.420.5015 fax 763.420.7286 web lordoflife.org
Nonprofit US Postage Paid Maple Grove, MN Permit #14
LifeTIMES is a monthly ministry of Lord of Life Lutheran Church printed by Wallace Carlson Printing using ecofriendly inks. To receive LifeTIMES in the mail or electronically—call 763.420.5015 or stop in the church office or email office@lordoflife.org with your name & address. We invite you to share faith stories, Lord of Life ministry events, photos, poetry & artwork. Submissions may be edited. Deadline for the October issue is September 1. Copyright © 2016 Lord of Life Lutheran Church
R E T U RN SE RVICE RE Q U E ST E D
inspiring relevant preaching authentic community worship with loud funk music by Julius Collins and Sons of Almighty
caught reading lifetimes
Caught reading LifeTIMES prior to the Relay for Life survivors’ lap are (left to right) Jaime Engebretson, Joann Cross, and Mike & Diane VanEssen
On a hot evening in August, these middle and high schoolers still chose to gather around a hot bonfire for Summer Nights devotion, fellowship, and s’mores! God is good. All the time.
20 September 2016
Joel & Mary Amundson and Jim & Betty Klande are caught reading LifeTIMES at the Church on the Spilled Blood in St. Petersburg, Russia