Inspire: Awakening by St. Philip the Deacon Lutheran Church

INSPIRE AWAKENING a magazine for the st. philip the deacon community fall 2022 First Called Christians • A Small Step to Spreading Love: An Interview with Arthur Brooks • SPD Ringers: A New Sound in Worship • Sacred Guides • Inviting the Sacred Pause

i EVERYINISSUE3 Letter from the Editor 4 Scripture Connection 5 Read, Watch, Listen 6 Reflections on Faith 7 Meditation 8 Devoted Living Saturdays5:30pm with CommunionHoly 8:15Sundays&9:30am Communion on first Sunday of the month & festivals 10:45Sundaysam settingContemporarywithHolyCommunion NEW WORSHIP SCHEDULE BEGINS SEPTEMBER 11 BALANCEAMATTEROF andconfidenceworkshopAtobuildstaminatopreventfalls Join us for this eight-week course, beginning Sept. 8 . Freewill donation. Contact Susan Path at spath@spdlc.org with questions.

1INSPIRE St. Philip the Deacon ALIVE10 Bon Appetit! 12 SPD Ringers: A New Sound in Worship 14 Bringing Faith to Life: 20 Years FEATUREAWAREARTICLES16 Sacred Guides 18 Committed to Wholeness 20 A Small Step to Spreading Love: An Interview with Arthur Brooks AWAKE24 Inviting the Sacred Pause 26 Holy Grounds 28 Awakening

2 INSPIRE Vol. 5 , Issue 1 , Fall 2022 Published by St. Philip the Deacon Lutheran Church 17205 County Road 6 Plymouth, MN 55447 (763) 475-7100 editor in chief Tim Westermeyer managing editor Amanda Berger design Malley Design staff writers Cheryl Mathison, Kate Sterner contributors Olsen Pancoast, Mark Schmid, Kraig Windschitl website spdlc.org/inspire email editorial aberger@spdlc.org on the cover Photo by Adam Gonzales ©2022 St. Philip the Deacon Lutheran Church. All rights reserved. submissions Do you have an idea for a story or love to write? Contact our managing editor with your submission, but please keep in mind the following guidelines: (A) Your article may be edited for length and content. (B) Articles must fit in the larger themes of our publication and reflect the mission of St. Philip the Deacon. (C) All submis sions will be reviewed by our editorial staff to determine the suitability for our publication. While we would love to include all submissions, space and cost limit our ability to do that. Submissions will not be returned. LIVESTREAM SUNDAYS AT 9:30 spdlc.org/livestream YOUWHEREVERWITHWORSHIPUSARE!

SHAUNA NIEQUIST, I I HAVEN’T LEARNED THAT YET R

Pella Lutheran closed in 2014.

LETTERFROMTHEEDITOR

3INSPIRE St. Philip the Deacon

college. I joined the choir and helped lead Sunday school music, and I made friends. It didn’t take very long before I wasn’t only seen, but known. Pella was much tinier and less formal than the church I grew up in, and it certainly wasn’t anything like SPD. It wasn’t anywhere near perfect, but it was a community of people, fumbling toward God in the best way they knew how. That is the church, whether church or Church. It is the community of people trying to figure out life together, in hope, anchored in the promises of scripture and creating space to be honest about who we are and where we are going. It is perfectly imperfect, as any human venture must be. Even at St. Philip the Deacon where we do church really well together, there will always be things that are imperfect. But that’s a big part of why I stay—because I believe it’s important to keep trying to be the Church that Jesus ecently, some SPD staff were chatting about going to church in college. All three of us could easily count the number of times we missed Sunday morning church growing up. No matter how late the previous night’s football game, concert or dance (prom!), come Sunday morning, we were in the pews with our families. When it came time for college, the choice was our own. Pastor Mark joked that he could count on one hand the times he DID go to church in college. Office Administrator Tracy Klaphake attended the daily chapel services at Gustavus and occasionally singing for the Sunday worship at Christ Chapel became her pattern of worship. I church-hopped in Omaha before settling on tiny Pella Lutheran Church, which worshipped about 50 people on a Sunday morning. I was noticed right away. I was a young adult. I was by myself. And in a place that small, it didn’t take much for them to notice that I could sing. I felt a little too “seen,” but people were welcoming and kind, so I chose to stay. I went because the liturgy and hymns were familiar. I went because it felt good to pause and pray during all the chaos of imagined his followers could be, even if it takes a few more millennia. Our Awakening issue asks us to take a moment and wonder together about what it means to be the church right now—today—post-pandemic and moving toward the future. What are we doing here? What is it about this place, these prayers, these people that continues to bring you back? And if you haven’t ventured back yet—and I mean this very sincerely—what are you waiting for? Sure, there’re a lot of faith “things” that you can do on your own, at home, but truthfully you can’t be the church from your couch all the time. Yes, we are healing. We’re restoring and we’re awakening to what it means to gather again, living into our mission to reach out, proclaim and inspire. We’re waiting for you to join us, again or for the first time. We’ve been expecting you.

“But nothing gets healed or restored or brought back to life unless those of us who still believe in hope, in honesty, in confession and prayer and the sacred reality of the church gathered keep gathering, keep working, keep praying, keep making changes. And so I stay.”

GUESS

Clearly, David is in awe of the majesty and power of God. When he refers to the heavens as the work of God’s fingers, it’s clear that David is particularly moved by the grandness of God. The cosmos above him leaves him feeling very small, perhaps even insignificant, and drives him to ask: What are humans that you are mindful of them? At some point in our lives, most of us have felt what David felt: small, insignificant, maybe even invisible; and that is what makes this psalm so relevant. David asks our questions and then immediately answers it with a strong affirmation of the place of humans in God’s creation. We have been made, as David writes: a little lower than God and crowned with glory and honor. Our place in the world, your place, has been established by God as one of great dignity and value and worth.

As we transition from summer to fall, find yourself lingering in the psalms. Here are five to get you started: Psalm 24, 27, 31, 55, and 61

PSALM 8:3-4 T

When I look at your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars that you have established; what are humans that you are mindful of them, mortals that you care for them?

SEPTEMBER 13

The Library Book by Susan Orlean. Discussion led by Cheryl Mathison. NOVEMBER 15 Half Truths by Adam Hamilton. Discussion led by Mark Schmid.

OCTOBER 11 Love Your Enemies: How Decent People Can Save America from the Culture of Contempt by Arthur C. Brooks. Discussion led by Tim Westermeyer. he Mary Martha and Elizabeth circles at SPD recently completed a yearlong study of some of the psalms. One of the biggest take-aways was the importance of lingering in a psalm long enough to hear what God is saying to us today.

SCRIPTURE CONNECTION

CLUBBOOKSPD Book club will meet both in-person (at SPD in The Fireside Room) and virtually at 6:30 p.m. Find the Zoom link in our most recent E-newsletter or by contacting social@spdlc.org.

BY CHERYL MATHISON

As poetry, each psalm invites the listener to sit with the images allowing the mind to wonder and imagine and to do so long enough that the words might take up resi dence in the heart. A simple way of lingering in a psalm is to commit to staying with a psalm until it is done with you and not the other way around! That might take an hour, or a day, or even several weeks. But, regard less of how long it might take, be assured that the outcome of lingering is inspiration, transformation, and an awakening to some thing both beautiful and true. Most of the psalms were written between the ninth and fifth centuries B.C.E., so it is no surprise that sometimes, at first read, a psalm may leave you scratching your head trying to discern its relevance for today. But, again, as poetry, it is important to remember that the words and the images of the psalms are timeless, so the invest ment of lingering comes with a promised payoff: an awakening to truth.

Consider beginning with Psalm 8. It was written by David, long before he was king, back when he was tending sheep. As you read the psalm, you can easily imagine this shepherd boy having safely settled the sheep for the night, lying down himself and gazing up at the expansive sky above him, and then becoming completely overwhelmed by the wonder and beauty of what he sees. It is almost too much to take in.

In verse 3 David writes, “I look at your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars that you have established.”

THE ADAM PROJECT Watch

Listen IN OUR TIME

From BBC Podcasts. Host Melvyn Bragg is joined by three experts for each episode which digs deep into the history of topics in science, art, literature and history. There are many episodes related to history of the church, theology and faith. A few favorite episodes include: The Sistine Chapel (April 28, 2022), Medieval Pilgrimage (February 18, 2021) and PierreSimon Laplace (April 8, 2021).

Read INSPIRE St. Philip the Deacon 5

Netflix (PG-13). When a time traveling pilot (Ryan Reynolds) crash lands in 2022, he teams up with his younger self to save the world. Jennifer Garner and Mark Ruffalo co-star.

I GUESS I HAVEN’T LEARNED THAT YET &FaithLife NOVEMBERTHURSDAY, 3 7:00

Dr. Michael J. Chan holds degrees from Pacific Lutheran University, Luther Seminary and Emory University. He joined Luther Seminary as assistant professor of Old Testament in 2013. He taught there until 2017, when he left to serve in the U.S. Navy and pursue pastoral work, then rejoined the seminary in 2019. Chan has authored numerous books and is a widely known adult educator and facilitator whose Gospel Beautiful podcast engages a diverse range of scholars, artists and activists. Dr. Chan recently joined Concordia College in Moorhead, Minnesota, in a brand-new role as its Executive Director for Faith and Learning. Join us for his conversation on Faith & Humor: The Bible’s Funniest Stories. The Faith & Life Lecture Series is free and open to the public. All are welcome!

By Shauna Niequist. If you are a fan of Niequist’s other books, her newest is like meeting up for a cup of coffee after a long absence: a chance to check in with where we are now and to reconnect with an old friend. Honest reflections on change, growing older and self-compassion during pandemic remind the reader that being human is hard and that we are not alone. PM

I think he’s right. In other places, I’ve written and spoken about the two greatest lies the devil would like us to believe. First, he wants you to believe that there’s something wrong with you. And, second, he wants you to believe you’re all alone.

I love that entire passage. I love the way his words about our true home speak to something deep in each of us about our unsatisfied desire for our “own far-off country.” And I love his reminder about how spells are used to break enchantments, as well as to induce them.

Right now, far too many people in our community have come to believe this second lie. They have succumbed to this untruth—this spell—and as a result they feel isolated and alone, alienated from any sense of community.

Enchantingly Yours, C.S. Lewis didn’t deliver many sermons. Most of his literary output was in the form of academic articles and books, children’s stories and essays defending the Christian faith. Of the few sermons he did preach, though, one is particularly famous. It’s called “The Weight of Glory.”

“decrease in faith, family life, and in-person friendship, as well as the catastrophe of pandemic-induced remote work.”

What if, in the year ahead, we take it upon ourselves—as members of the body of Christ, who are intimately connected to one another—to recognize that part of our calling in the world is to break this spell? What if we allow ourselves to be reawakened once again to the power of community? What if we recognize that God is inviting us to do once more what Christians have always done: to gather together as members of a family, to be reminded of who we are, and to be encouraged to live out our lives alongside of one another? When we do this—when we gather and worship and serve and grow with each other—we break the spell of this contagion of loneliness. And we break it not only for ourselves, but also for the community and the world. And, in the process, we might just discover that happy endings happen not only “once upon a time, in a land far, far away” but also happen for the world God loves right here, and right now.

In this sermon, among other things, Lewis talks about our “desire for our own far-off country”—our true home, which, in this lifetime, we can only get glimpses of. He talks about how books or music or beauty sometimes point us to this true home, but that they never should be mistaken for the real thing. “They are,” he writes, “not the thing itself; they are only the scent of a flower we have not found, the echo of a tune we have not heard, news from a country we have never yet visited.” And then, right after those words, he writes this: “Do you think I am trying to weave a spell? Perhaps I am; but remember your fairy tales. Spells are used for breaking enchantments as well as for inducing them.”

I wonder if perhaps it might be helpful at times to think about what spells have been cast on us, and how God is inviting us as a community to break these spells—not only for ourselves, but for those around us. In this issue, in the interview with Arthur Brooks, he points to one such spell, which, for a variety of reasons, has been cast over our entire culture—namely the spell of isolation. Brooks calls this epidemic of loneliness “the single most dangerous social contagion we are facing today,” and says it stems from BY TIM WESTERMEYER

7INSPIRE St. Philip the Deacon MEDITATION

MECHTHILD OF MAGDEBURG

“The day of my spiritual awakening was the day I saw and knew I saw all things in God and God in all things.”

“Barnabas went to Tarsus to look for Saul. He found Saul and brought him to Antioch, where they met with the church for a whole year and taught many of its people. There in Antioch the Lord’s followers were first called Christians.”

ACTS 11:25-26 (CEV) First Called Christians

8 BY AMANDA BERGER DEVOTED LIVING

9INSPIRE

In using the word Christian to describe ourselves then, we must understand that it means to embody Christ—little versions

he book of Acts is the story of the early church and the first followers of Christ. It records how the Good News spread throughout the ancient world, laying the foundation of the church of today. This work was accomplished by devoted believers and sustained by the Holy Spirit—that part of the Trinity that is truly the mover and shaker as it moves within God’s people inspiring them to a life of discipleship. The work of the Holy Spirit within us is not passive, but rather an invitation into action as bearers of the Gospel each day. In The Big Book of Christian Mysti cism author Carl McColman describes it this way: Christ ... pours the fullness of his divinity into each and every Christian, through the power of the Hoy Spirit. We are not mere spectators of the divine nature; we partake of it. The literal meaning of ‘Christian’ is ‘little Christ’—and so, each Christian becomes, in a mysterious (mystical) way, a part of Christ.”

Throughout the New Testament, Christ followers are known by how they engage in Christian life, things that we now call marks of discipleship. Any of these areas can be a place of entry or growth in our lives as disciples of Jesus. These six marks include: service, worship, giving, fellowship, scripture study and prayer. As we continue to model our lives on Christ, St. Philip the Deacon offers many opportunities for all of us (all ages and life stages) to grow in discipleship in meaningful ways. This fall, choose one of these marks of discipleship to focus your walk with Jesus. Do you feel called to deepen your commitment to giving? Or wish to dig deeper into God’s Word? Or after long seasons of isolation, are you ready to reengage with other believers in Chris tian fellowship? It’s not possible to predict what “normal” will ever be again, but we can help to shape the return to normal rhythms with our commitment to our lives of faith and the marks of discipleship. A return to regular worship with other believers begins our week. Commitment to service and giving—both time and talents—continue to shape our week through participation in Bible study groups, music ministries or Christian education. Fellowship engages our emotional lives and our sense of community. We have been called to a faith that is lived and invites our participation. May we reengage with our faith commu nity, drawing strength and hope from one another so that we may be “little Christs” to all the world. you are invited to join Pastor Tim Westermeyer in a classroom setting as he teaches on this topic. The framework for this class comes from the book The Walk by Adam Hamilton and will run on Mondays at 7:00 p.m. for five weeks, beginning on September 19. This will be a great introduction to or refresher for anyone at any place in their walk of discipleship. Register at spdlc.org/register.

St. Philip the Deacon of the mercy, love, forgiveness, compassion and hope that Jesus incarnated. When we embrace our calling as “little Christs,” we reflect the light of Christ and the holy mystery of what it means to be both human and divine, saints and sinners. We are called to carry this holy mission honestly and tenderly, knowing that the Christ the world knows flows from the heart of each of us.

“ If you interestedare in learning more and digging deeper into these fundamentals of Christian faith,

In Acts 11:26, the word “Christians” is used for the first time. No longer were followers of Christ simply practicing a different kind of Judaism, but they were engaged in something new altogether. This new definition included all who believed in the death and resurrection of Jesus—the Jews and the non-Jews—a part of a new move ment, blessed by the power of the Spirit.

10 BY AMANDA BERGER & KATE STERNER Appetit! The special friendships that grow when we meet as a larger group are further enhanced by being a guest in someone’s home.” “ Bon

The Deacon Diners groups meet in each other’s homes four times a year with each member bringing a different component of the meal. To join the next event on October 9, contact Rebecca Sundquist at rebecca@jorgensonsundquist.com.

The Deacon Diners have made wildly varied menus—ranging from exotic world cuisines to simple quick appetizers and drinks. At each gathering, group members divide up the menu and share the cooking, so it isn’t overwhelming for one person or the host. It’s a team effort to bring the meal to the table. Whenever people have expressed anxiety about their cooking skills, Connie Blanchard was quick to offer reassurance. “We learn from each other. We create some items that are easy to produce, and others that challenge us a bit.” Other members offered that if cooking isn’t your thing, storebought contributions are welcome—because ultimately, it’s about connecting with other people, not fancy homemade food.

And so the table becomes the thing that draws this eclectic group together. In food and drink, shared stories and laughter, participants find common ground and deeper community. Eager to welcome new people to the table, they have hosted different learning events over the years, as well as their most recent offering of Zoom cooking classes.

“The special friendships that grow when we meet as a larger group are further enhanced by being a guest in someone’s home,” said Blanchard. Longtime member Marilyn Larson reflected, “In a congregation this size, with several different worship services, this helps us get to know those who attend different services. We love to cook and have people around us. I have met so many people that you’d think have nothing in common.”

“Sometimes it’s hard to know how to get to know people at church … I never really got to know people until Deacon Diners,” said Kathy Pepski. “You don’t have to be a couple—singles can join and host on their own or pair up with others. You don’t have to be a wonderful cook, either. It’s not about the food. It’s about the fellowship. I can’t say enough about what a wonderful way it is to meet people.”

INSPIRE St. Philip the Deacon Gathering around the table is a universal symbol of hospitality and community found throughout the world. We are fed and nourished in body and spirit when we share a meal with other believers. Deacon Diners meets for that very purpose—to unite people through food, conversation and faith. Though many of the Deacon Diners have been a part of the group since it began in the 1990s, they are very excited for new people to join in their events.

The Deacon Diners Cookbook features 420 recipes from Deacon Diners participants. All proceeds benefit Interfaith Outreach. Purchase your copy from the church office for $25, or if you’d like one sent to you by mail, please send a check (made out to “Interfaith Outreach”) for $30 to Deacon Diners Cookbooks, 15705 16th Ave. N., Plymouth, MN 55447.

A Sound in Worship

SPD RINGERS:

BY KRAIG WINDSCHITL

The sound of a bell has been used for centuries as a call to worship in many countries and cultures around the world. A single hand-held bell can be used to catch people’s attention. A tuned set of handbells can do much more, accompanying worshippers in songs and chanting, or providing the background for moments of meditation and reflection.

New

While there are several different handbell manufacturers, SPD is blessed to have four octaves of gorgeous Malmark handbells, which are made in Plumsteadville, Penn sylvania. Because of the gifts of generous donors, we have these brand-new bells with a sound so clear and sweet it is like nothing else you’ve heard. I love to compare the sound to rich, dark chocolate for the ears!

Handbells enrich church music ministry programs by increasing the musical options. Consider a person in the church pew who may be too shy to sing in the choir because their 4th grade teacher told them they had a bad voice. They might feel more makingcomfortablemusicina handbell choir. Another example: during the height of the pandemic, churches that had handbell choirs (masked and distanced) were still able to provide music via ensemble.

“Each ringer is limited to playing only a handful of notes, so it takes the entire ensemble to play a musical piece with expression and beauty.”

I feel so honored and blessed to be able to bring together a handbell choir here at SPD. The dedication to music ministry at this church, not only by clergy and staff, but the whole congregation, is humbling, and I remain thankful. Soli Deo Gloria! We look forward to the debut of the SPD Ringers in worship this fall!

Ringing in a bell choir takes a specific understanding of musicianship. While you will occasionally see a handbell soloist, it is more typically a group endeavor. Each ringer needs the skill of being able to read music and the discipline to work together with the other ringers. Each ringer is limited to playing only a handful of notes, so it takes the entire ensemble to play a musical piece with expression and beauty. This also means that if a member of the group is absent, then their notes are silent. However, here at SPD, when a ringer can’t be at rehearsal, usually their bells get divided up, and these overachieving Lutherans make sure that all notes are rung!

St. Philip the DeaconINSPIRE 13 he earliest use of tuned handbells was found in ancient Vedic civilizations situated in the Indian subcontinent. Today, handbells have been used in Christian worship for centuries all over the world. In recent decades in the United States, there has been a great rise in handbell choirs and ensembles, both as a supplement to congregational singing as well as a secular performing medium. Handbells were first brought to the United States from England by Margaret Shurcliff in 1902. She was presented with a set of 10 handbells in London by Arthur Hugues, the general manager of Whitechapel Bell Foundry. Here in the Twin Cities Metro Area, it was Hennepin United Methodist Church who pioneered handbell ringing. According to records kept by the Amer ican Guild of Organists and the Handbell Association of America, Hennepin Avenue United Methodist Church was the first comprehensive bell program in the Twin Cities. Still today, Hennepin Methodist is well known for their semi-professional bell choir of five octaves. My first experience in ringing handbells was at organ camp and I fell in love. Though I love singing in choirs there is something unique, a certain kind of musical disci pline, when playing in a bell choir. When I play the organ, I’m used to playing all the notes, using right hand, left hand and both feet! There is some thing both freeing and bonding about only being respon sible for just two notes within the larger bell choir. Over the years, I’ve been blessed to direct bell choirs mostly here in Minnesota. While in college, I served at First Presbyterian Church of St. Cloud, where I directed a five-octave ensemble. During my tenure at Mount Olivet Lutheran Church, I was fortunate enough to direct two bell choirs. And more recently I directed the Wayzata Ringers, the very accomplished handbell ensemble at Wayzata Community Church.

his season marks 20 years of the Faith & Life Lecture Series, one of St. Philip the Deacon’s communityoriented measures to help people engage in the life of faith beyond church walls.

BY AMANDA BERGER

20 Years

“I’m proud of the fact that the Faith & Life Series has become a trusted and respected venue for thoughtful conver sations about things that matter,” said Pastor Tim Westermeyer, the creator of the lecture series. “I’m proud of the wide diversity of speakers we’ve invited. We’ve had people from across the political spec trum and from just about every Christian tradition you can think of. I think that’s a wonderful sign of the health and vitality of the Duringseries.”the2020-2021 season the series pivoted to being entirely online. While the lecture series has always been livestreamed, an unprecedented number of people joined in those conversations during the pandemic.

FaithBringingtoLife:

Livestreaming allows for an expanded audience to join from across the globe—a truly powerful tool for sharing the gospel.

As for the future of the series, Westermeyer believes “that this series will continue to provide a platform for these thoughtful and winsome expressions of our faith, so that people who attend these events are encouraged to live out their own lives of faith more deeply and more fully.”

See the ad on back inside cover for the dates and topics for the 20222023 season.

Throughout the years, Faith & Life has hosted world-renowned speakers—people who have influenced our entire culture.

For these 20 years, Faith & Life has been offered to the public at no cost—completely supported by sponsors and generous donors. Greg Buck, from Productivity, Inc., a longtime sponsor, supports the series because, “I’ve found the Faith & Life speakers to be intellectually stimulating and thought provoking with a faith based emphasis that one can often reflect on and find relevance in one’s daily life.”

“I do think, though, that—for people who live nearby and would have been inclined to come to one of our events in the past— livestreaming has also reduced the urgency to actually get in their car and drive to the church,” said Westermeyer. So in this 20th anniversary season, the hope is that people who are close will rejoin the series in person, bringing their questions and energy to the encounter—some thing that inspires participants and speakers alike, translating into a more engaging experience for all.

Westermeyer reflected on this diversity, “One of the joys of running and managing this series has been the opportunity to meet and connect with such wonderful, thoughtful people. Some that come to mind would be: Brené Brown, our only repeat speaker; Michael Ward, an international expert on C.S. Lewis; Marilynne Robinson, who will be remembered as one of the great authors of our time; Father Gregory Boyle, who works with former gang members in Los Angeles; and Richard D’Souza, an astronomer at the Vatican Observatory.”

The upcoming 2022-2023 season offers an equally diverse and engaging lineup with Arthur Brooks, Michael Chan, David Robison, Cole Arthur Riley and Bishop Michael Curry.

That was why Faith & Life series was conceived—to bridge the intersection of faith and everyday life, showing how Christian faith continues critical to humanity. “The Faith & Life series brings rich conversation about God back to the public square where it belongs,” said Tod Worner. “If we are to do as the Benedic tines would advise, ora et labora —pray and work—then we need to gather in a public space and talk about the things that truly matter. Faith & Life is one of those public spaces, and an indispensable space at that.”

15INSPIRE St. Philip the Deacon

Sacred

BY CHERYL MATHISON

Faith Creek Friends (FCF), a ministry of St. Philip the Deacon for children with special needs, was born out of an “aha” moment, explained Children’s Ministry Director Kathy Hagedorn. Hagedorn was attending a Children’s Pastors conference where she participated in a workshop focused on children with special needs in a Sunday school setting. The presenter remarked, “Children with disabilities are part of your congregation but they are not coming to church because there is nowhere for them to go.”

16 hen Hagedorn returned from the conference, she immediately began matching adults and high school students with children that needed a friend to help guide them in the traditional Sunday school classroom. That was in 2002 and over the past 20 years, the program has expanded to include a Faith Creek Friends classroom set up and designed specifically to meet the needs of participants who thrive in a smaller, quieter environment. Beyond the count less children who have been matched with a buddy and integrated in main stream classrooms, 20 other children and young adults, ranging in age from 4 through 20, have learned about the love of Jesus thanks to this important ministry. The structure of FCF is designed to meet the needs of each indi vidual student. Specific needs vary and may include physical disabilities, learning disabilities, speech delays, ADD/ADHD, autism, Down Syndrome, anxiety and more. Hagedorn notes that as the needs of the participants change so also the curric ulum. The curriculum and activities are adapted to fit each of the student’s needs every week.FCF teachers take their cues from the participants as they struc ture their time together which means while there is a routine for consistency, the activities are always changing. A typical session may look like this: the students begin playing together and then when appropriate they attend the large group session that opens Sunday school. Some of the kids go with their buddy to a mainstream classroom while others gather in the FCF classroom. Activities include everything from sensory play and music to storybooks and quiet play. Some participants work on projects that support Faith Creek Sunday school like helping to assemble mailings while others are some

Guides W

PSALM 139:13-14 times content to simply observe. Learning the Lord’s Prayer (or learning to sit quietly for the length of the prayer) is a component each week. Each child is unique and each week is different.

In her debut book, This Here Flesh, Cole Arthur Riley writes, “We cannot help but entwine our concept of dignity with how much a person can do. The sick, the elderly, disabled, the neurodivergent, my sweet cousin on the autism spectrum—we tend to assign a lesser social value to those whose ‘doing’ cannot be enslaved into a given output. We should look to them as sacred guides.” We would do well to consider people with special needs as “sacred guides.” Both Hagedorn and her daughter resonate with this. Shelby notes that one of the great blessings of her work with FCF has been the challenge to listen to Bible stories and consider how to share them in new and creative ways. To do this, she must set aside her notions of what the story is about and let the story and the students lead her to a new telling. Hagedorn agreed and explained that the children constantly “remind her to slow down, relax, and move forward with what is possible right here, right now.” Of the participants she said, “God has given each one their own strength in ways we may or may not recognize or understand but those strengths are there.”

Perhaps you know someone who can benefit from this ministry. New students are always welcome. You can find out more by visiting our website spdlc.org and searching for Faith Creek Friends, or by contacting Kathy Hagedorn at khagedorn@spdlc.org.Additionally,your gifts can support this important ministry. There is always a need for more buddies and teachers. Hagedorn identifies having consistent help on Sunday morn ings as the biggest need. Familiar faces in a familiar place allows the students to feel safe and to eagerly anticipate seeing their buddies and teachers each week. To find out how you can help contact Kathy Hage dorn at khagedorn@spdlc.org.

A mother of a recent FCF participant is so very thankful for this ministry. She said, “Kathy and Shelby are wonderful. Thanks to them, it has been a very positive experi ence for us. It allowed us to attend worship in peace as a family. We had not been able to do that in many years. Faith Creek Friends is absolutely crucial to our ability to attend weekly worship services. I simply do not have words to express my gratitude.”

Jill and Jim Russell reflected on their son’s two years in Faith Creek Friends like this: “Our son is on the Autism Spectrum and struggles with ADHD. He has difficulty sitting still while in worship, and also tends to be verbal at inappropriate times. We love our little boy to pieces, but if we had to bring him to every worship service, it may be more difficult to attend on some Sundays. He really enjoys having oppor tunities to learn, interact with other kids, and to feel free to move about the room if he needs a movement break. He gets time with the larger group of kids, but can take a step back to the Faith Creek Friends room if needed. We are very grateful that St. Philip the Deacon recognizes the need for a program like Faith Creek Friends.”

For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made.

It is very evident that Hagedorn has a heart for people with special needs. When asked where that originated, she replied, “I tend to have a caregiver’s personality. Addition ally, my brother was hearing impaired and had learning disabilities. He was four years younger than me, and I was always in his corner to help and support him.” In fact, Hagedorn became his legal guardian to assist with his increasing health concerns and decision making.

17INSPIRE St. Philip the DeaconINSPIRE St. Deacon

Like her mother, Shelby Hagedorn has been blessed with a caregiver’s heart. Shelby has been the primary Faith Creek Friends classroom teacher since 2013 and prior to that she served as a buddy to FCF partic ipants beginning in 2007. Her experience in FCF has clearly informed her vocation. After high school Shelby became a Personal Care Assistant, went to college and earned an undergrad degree in Psychology with a minor in Human Development and Family Studies. She went back to school and received an associate’s degree as an occu pational therapy assistant and currently works at a clinic for children and teens with special needs. Shelby said, “God loves us for who we are! Faith Creek Friends has given me a passion to pursue in all areas of my life! My involvement has guided me into making a career out of helping those with special needs live the best life they can.”

Since 1990, St. Philip the Deacon has used regular, three-year Capital Appeals as one of the important ways we accomplish God’s mission in the world. These appeals have benefitted organizations and individuals around the world, they have expanded our capacity for mission and ministry, and they have allowed us to faithfully manage our mortgage.

COMMITTED 18WHOLENESSTO

“The response to this appeal has been incred ibly positive,” said Pastor Tim Westermeyer. “I’m so grateful to all of the families and indi viduals who have already made a commitment to this important appeal. I also celebrate that we have received what I believe is our largest three-year commitment in a very long time. These kinds of transformative gifts are a wonderful sign of the trust people have in the work of the congregation, and an indication that the priorities of this appeal are resonating with our members and the community.”

Even if you did not make an initial commit ment, there is still plenty of time to get involved and be part of Being Made Whole. By supporting the appeal, you help to ensure the success of the following initiatives, benefitting our entire community:

The beneficiaries of our current appeal—Being Made Whole—are all close to home, and the appeal has a special emphasis on mental health and the conditions which support healthy families and communities. This appeal enters our second of three years in January. With strong early support for this appeal, we’re currently at 95% of our three-year goal in commitments.

INSPIRE St. Philip the Deacon 19

INVESTING

There have already been several positive impacts from the appeal. Among them, people have started to become engaged with the work of Mental Health Connect, both at the board and volunteer level. And we’re currently working on how we will create some ongoing systemic connections with the work of Mental Health Connect, which will allow us to both learn more from them and help to support their work more fully. We expect Mental Health Connect to become a very active and visible part of our ministry at SPD.

For this three-year appeal, we are providing support to Rise Early Childcare Center and Emerson Village affordable housing, two important area initiatives that support those struggling to break free from the bonds of poverty through child care and housing. “Providing financial support to organizations like Emerson Village and the Rise Early Childcare Center helps increase visibility for them, which is an important form of support for them as well,” said Westermeyer. Though this current appeal does not include any major physical plant investments, we believe the beauty and flexibility of our physical space is an incredible blessing and gift, which gives us a welcoming and inviting home base for our expanding mission and Asministry.aresult, this appeal continues to faithfully manage the church’s mortgage, ensuring our own financial future so that we can best minister to the world around us. IN OUR INCREASINGFUTURECAPACITY

“If you’ve already made a gift or commitment to the appeal, thank you. These appeals have been an important way we accomplish God’s work in the world at St. Philip the Deacon, and I’m profoundly grateful to you,” said Westermeyer. “If you haven’t yet made a commitment or gift, I hope you will consider joining your support to those who have already done so.”

To make a gift or commitment to Being Made Whole, visit spdlc.org/egiving or contact Financial Administrator Moe Hagestuen with questions at mhagestuen@spdlc.org.

IN MISSION

We’re also continuing to explore and experiment with how our Digital Campus—the collection of all our online platforms and ministries— can continue to help us expand the work of St. Philip the Deacon more broadly and more effectively.

20 Arthur Brooks is a Harvard professor, Ph.D. social scientist, bestselling author, and columnist at The Atlantic who specializes in using the highest levels of science and philosophy to provide people with actionable strategies to live their best lives. As a behavioral social scientist, prolific author, and in-demand speaker, he has given over 1,400 speeches in the last decade in 145 cities around the world. AN INTERVIEW WITH ARTHUR BROOKS BY TIM WESTERMEYER

Brooks engages his audiences using a blend of cutting-edge science, ancient wisdom, philosophy, music and art while delivering real-life strategies for lifting people up, bringing them together, and improving happiness for all. He is the bestselling author of 12 books on topics ranging from economic opportunity to human happiness, and his most recent #1 New York Times bestseller, From Strength to Strength , is a guide to finding meaning, success and deep purpose in the second half of life.

Brooks will kick off the 20th season of the Faith & Life Series this fall on Thursday, October 13, at 7 p.m. He corresponded with Pastor Tim Westermeyer for this interview earlier in the summer.

SmallSteptoSpre

21INSPIRE St. Philip the Deacon Today, you’re an internationally known public intellectual based at Harvard. But let’s back up a bit to explore how you got there. What people may not know is that you began your professional career as a classical French hornist. What did that experience teach you, and why aren’t you still playing in an orchestra somewhere? From a young age, I wanted to be a great French hornist. That might sound like a strange ambition! I gave myself completely to classical music—skipping college—and had a nice 12-year career, first as a touring chamber musician, then with the Barce lona Orchestra, and then teaching at a conservatory in Florida. About eight years in, I noticed my skills starting to decline. It was unexplainable but no level of practice or coaching could correct the trouble I was having. So I started making plans to jump. I went to college by correspondence—while still performing—to study economics. After that I started my Ph.D., which was too intense to combine with my music, so I left the horn behind at that point. Continuing with this thread of your background and experience, can you walk us quickly through your life as a researcher, a professor and then the president of the American Enterprise Institute? Were all those transitions planned? Accidental? A little of both? After earning my Ph.D. I taught at Georgia State University for three years and Syra cuse University for seven, where I focused heavily on the economics of charitable reading Love giving and social entrepreneurship. I spent nearly a decade in academia before being selected as the President of the American Enterprise Institute, a think tank in Washington, D.C., founded in 1938. Ten and a half years later, I stepped down and joined the faculty at Harvard. I’m not a glutton for punishment, but I do tend to tear my career down to the studs roughly every decade and try to do something brand new. Some transitions have been serendipitous, but I intentionally stepped away from being the President of AEI. The peak effectiveness of CEOs tends to suffer after about 10 years in the job. I loved AEI enough to know stepping down was best for the organization. It turned out to be good for me as well. In retrospect, would you describe those transitions as providential? Or, said differently: As you look back, do you see the old line about “God draws straight with crooked lines” being played out in your own life through the various experiences you’ve had? Our lived experience can feel random and disjointed. My father, who had a Ph.D. in statistics and was a lifelong Christian, believed that God built randomness into the universe, and that miracles were “tails on the distributions of events.” I don’t know about that, but I do believe that our heavenly Father loves us and helps us navigate our lives, bumps and all. Your time at both AEI and Harvard has given you a couple of unique platforms from which you have been able to observe our culture. What would you say is working well in our culture today? What about our culture troubles you most? The past few decades have delivered extraordinary success when it comes to lifting people out of poverty. In addition, technology has made intel lectual resources accessible to people who were historically excluded from them. It’s a great time to be alive if you are an optimist. But we are still working through social issues that are driving us down and apart. Loneliness might be the single most dangerous social contagion we are facing

22 today. Our Surgeon General Vivek Murthy calls it a pandemic. I believe our loneliness epidemic stems from a decrease in faith, family life and in-person friendship. And now, we can add to this the catastrophe of pandemic-induced remote work. You have warned that—during this age of divisive politicians, screaming heads on television, angry campus activists and Twitter trolls—we live in a time of an “outrage industrial complex.” Can you say more about that? I have written a lot about the problem of contempt in our culture—the conviction of worthlessness of people who disagree with us, especially about politics. This is related to social isolation and populism, of course, but also to the rise of predatory, polarizing media, both social and traditional. The rise in political hatred is the bad news; the good news is that most of us hate the hatred: More than 90% of Americans hate how divided we’ve become as a country. We need to stand up to the outrage industrial complex and demand the country and culture that we want. Truly, the Big Lie in American life today is that the biggest threat to our country is our neighbors who have different opinions. During this time of bitterness and contempt, it seems reasonable to assume that—to combat that toxic cultural dynamic—we need less disagreement. And yet, in your work, you actually encourage something a bit different: better, more loving disagreement. What do you mean by that? We need a higher standard of what it means to be a good society. If I said I tolerated my wife, you would probably ask me if we’re doing ok! We can agree with others on practically everything yet only tolerate them. That’s a poor standard. St. Thomas Aquinas defined love as the effort to “will the good of the other.” We love others when we seek to improve their good in the midst of our differences. And the evidence shows that diversity makes us better. Raising the bar to loving others improves our businesses, our society and our individual lives. Related to this theme of disagreement being a good thing: While you were at AEI, you worked hard to deepen your outreach to leaders across the ideological spectrum. How can we continue to bridge this divide in our culture? And, maybe more specifically, do churches and faith communities have a role in doing this? The easiest thing to do is to agree with those who hold the same opinions or positions as we do. It is much harder to advocate for unity on behalf of those with whom you disagree. I made organizational rules for having a robust competition of ideas at AEI. In our indi vidual lives, it can be as simple as making

odewswhoholdthesameopinionsorpositionsa.Itismuchhardertoadvocatefo

“Theeasiest thing to doisto agree with those

23INSPIRE St. Philip the Deacon personal commitments to get to know someone with a different background or philosophical worldview. The benefits are almost always mutual. My understanding is that your focus on love—and specifically your book Love Your Enemies —is deeply informed by the teachings and commitments of the Christian faith. How have you gone about using wisdom from a faith tradition in such a public way—where faith traditions like Christianity are viewed suspiciously or even disparaged? As Christians we are obliged—privileged, really—to live our faith publicly. This doesn’t necessarily mean overt prosely tization, though. In a secular world, the best kind of apostolate is often worldly excellence combined with faith that we express in a relaxed, cheerful way. Just be great at your job and upright in your life, and include your faith in all you do, without fear, anger or trouble of any kind. People will find that magnetic. Related to the above, how would you encourage Christians in the United States to be less defensive about our faith in the public square? How can we speak and behave in a way that invites conversation with others about important things, even when they may not share our commitments or beliefs?

behalfofthosewithwhomyou disagree.”

The first rule is to use your faith—and all your values—as a gift, never as a weapon. When we are defensive, we often take the most beautiful thing in our lives and use it in a hostile way, which makes it repug nant to everyone who needs it. It’s like taking flowers to someone and smacking in the face with them. The second rule is to make faith boringly normal—like putting on your shirt. For example, I cross myself (I’m Catholic) and offer up my words to God before I walk on stage to speak, which I do hundreds of times a year. No big deal—normal. Obvi ously, it’s important for me. But sometimes when people witness this simple thing, the complete normalcy of tracing the cross on my body, it has an effect. Sometimes people who have fallen away remark on it, and say they want that in their lives, too. The theme of this issue of Inspire is Awakening. How does that theme resonate for you as it relates to living out our faith in today’s world—and maybe particularly after the events of the last two or three years? We have an opportunity coming out of the coro navirus pandemic for a fresh start. Many of us have already returned to our offices and schools but we are still reeling from spending nearly two years apart and in isolation. The evidence is showing us that Zoom and technological replace ments of in-person experiences are not replacements for community at all. A small step we can take to spreading love is to make a commitment to join others in person. Reawakening to community is a beautiful analogy for how we can spread love in the wake of difficult circumstances. Finally, we’re excited to welcome you on Thursday, October 13, to kick off the 20th season of the Faith & Life Series. Your talk will be on “Faith & A Better Future: Renewal in a Time of Outrage.” When people come to that event, what can they expect to hear or learn? I will be talking about love! Specifically, about the most transgres sive, radical teaching about love in human history: loving our enemies. Using social science and neuroscience, I will show that this counterintuitive teaching is the secret to solving our social problems and reigniting our nation’s prosperity and success. No surprise of course: Christian teaching always winds up saving the day. But I approach the whole matter through science, not theology. or unity on

24 INVITING THE SACRED PAUSE BY AMANDA BERGER

While there are seven traditional hours to choose from, and any could be a good starting place, I decided to begin with morning prayer (Lauds). Intentionally rising with gratitude and awareness of the divine seemed like a perfect way to begin the day. I settled upon a quote, a few affirmations, and invocation of God to be present throughout the day ahead and closing with the Lord’s Prayer. It takes only a few minutes but sets the tone of my day in a whole new way, as my first action is not checking my phone or email, a frantic breakfast, or worrying about my to-do list, but rather begins with a few deep breaths and turning first to God.

Lauds quickly became habit. It felt easy and natural, integrated with my first waking movements and then followed by devotional reading, coffee and my normal morning routine. Next, I turned my attention to adding a second pause mid-morning (Terce), as an acknowledgment of the holiness of my working day. “Let your loveliness shine on us, and bless the work we do, bless the work of our hands” (Psalm 90:17) sets the tone for my terce prayer. Praying over my work—at home or in the office— whatever the work of our hands, it is sacred. In a culture that praises productivity and is enslaved to the hustle, this pause (short as it is—2-3 minutes tops!) reminds me that I am allowed to rest and that I am more than what I do or produce. Pausing for Terce has been harder. It’s more challenging to remember as I get caught up in my work or schedule a meeting or find myself out running errands—I manage to remember to do it at least as often as I forget, but the message it conveys to mind and spirit feels so Mostimportant.unexpectedly, I’ve added a third pause to my day—in the middle of the night. Ideally, it would be at midnight, but most of the modern authors I read didn’t recommend setting an alarm to honor matins—our sleep is too precious! However, what they did encourage was the practice of using that moment for prayer if you find yourself awake. Whether because of insomnia or racing thoughts, or you just happen to wake up for some reason, use this time, also known as the night watch, to listen deeply. It can remind us of the darkness, of the tomb and waiting with Christ to arise. It is a time of deep listening and settling the soul. And regardless of what woke me up, within a few moments, this sacred pause allows me to find my way back to peaceful sleep. There are many other moments of the day that could be used to begin your practice of praying the hours. If this idea resonates with you, I recommend the book Seven Sacred Pauses by Macrina Wiederkehr as an entry point. To learn about other prayer practices, read about our new class, Holy Grounds, on page 26.

Thus begins the traditional daily Hebrew morning prayers— the Shema—which was then followed by a series of blessings. Then in the afternoon, devout Jews would pray the blessings again. And, finally, they closed the day with prayer like the morning prayers, with the addition of personal petitions. This was the pattern of prayer which Jesus learned to pray, a pattern that was familiar to his disciples and a practice that continued to shape their lives after Jesus’ death and resurrection, finding its way into the early life of the church.

Early Christians continued the practice, adding prayers to mark the other hours of the day, especially within early monastic communities, until the day was marked by seven pauses for prayer. This dance between the movement of work and the pause for prayer created a rhythm and set an intention for the day, dedicating all to God. Known as Praying the Hours or Fixed-Hour Prayer, this pattern continues to shape the day with immersion in scripture and prayer, psalm and song for Christian communities throughout our world today. Long intrigued by this rhythm, I wondered if it could be translated into my own daily round of work and home life. At the urging of my spiritual director, I decided to create my own sacred pauses amidst my day. Both my spiritual director and the books I found on praying the hours recommended starting with one sacred pause, making it a habit, and then integrating additional pauses so that the rhythm feels natural to you.

THE LORD

ONE…”

“HEAR ISRAEL, THE LORD OUR GOD, IS

25INSPIRE St. Philip the Deacon

Each Monday session begins with a coffee (or other morning beverage) ritual—taught the first week, then practiced each week—an intentional ritual of slowing and focusing, using the five senses to bring us into a place of attentiveness toward God. Then we move into the substance of our gathering: immersed in scripture and prayer. “While Holy Grounds will not take the shape of a traditional Bible Study, the Word of God absolutely will inform our time together.

27INSPIRE St. Philip the Deacon

Participants will be soaked in scripture each gathering, and hopefully some of the passages will follow you throughout the week that follows,” said Mathison. Then after the Bible study, we move to our contemplative practice for the week.

Join us as we begin on Mondays, beginning September 19, at 9:45 a.m. Child care will be available upon request. No registration required—you are welcome to join us at any time. Continues through November 14. Obviously, with a different practice being presented each week, some will stick and some won’t,” said Berger. “The goal is to find something that resonates with you, that invites you into God’s presence and feels natural.”

M “

HOLY GROUNDS BY INSPIRE STAFF

What is contemplative prayer? A simple definition is this: focus and attention on the presence of God, like that we would share with a loved one. It’s a meeting, it’s a conversation and it’s sacred space. These prac tices will be introduced and taught interactively each week, allowing participants to explore and try out the practice. Some tools will be offered to enhance these practices at home on your own; and while encouraged to then practice it again throughout the week, there is no homework or reporting back. The goal is to find a practice that works for you.

any of us desire a deeper relationship with God or a more vibrant prayer life. We were created by God, and the impulse to dig deeper into our relationship with our creator is spirit-led. But trying to figure out just how to fit one more thing into our daily grind can be a challenge. Enter SPD’s newest class offering: Holy Grounds. This collaboration between SPD staff Amanda Berger, Pastor Cheryl Mathison and lay leader Barb Paulson creates a sweet space for connection with God and others in search of a more contemplative prayer life. “Holy Grounds is for anyone looking to deepen their relationship with God while exploring a variety of spiritual practices,” said Mathison. “This class will be very practical and hands on; and participants will leave having experienced a time for slowing down, devotional prayer and study, a new practice and faithful conversation.” There are no requirements and no registration. There’s also no homework or book buying. This class is simple and accessible.

28 BY OLSEN PANCOAST Christikon and outdoor ministry is where my faith was “awakened,” not only as a camper in high school, but also while on staff accompanying AWAKENINGcampers.

I had just finished my sophomore year at Becker High School the first time I went out to Christikon.

ThroughoutWilderness.thatweekI saw a young man, not so different from me, lead with faith. And that was important to me.

My dad, the pastor at South Santiago Lutheran Church at the time, organized a group to head out and spend a week backpacking. One of my counselors that week was Jake Greenway. Jake was immediately someone I looked up to. Throughout the week of backpacking, he taught me and our group how to fly fish, shared insightful thoughts in daily Bible study, and helped lead our group in worship in the cathedral of the AbsarokaBeartooth

29INSPIRE St. Philip the Deacon

Fast forward to the spring of my first year at Concordia College. I was looking for a camp to work at for the summer and wandering around the college atrium during the annual Camp Fair. I saw the sign for Chris tikon. After a conversation and interview with camp director Mark Donald, I packed my bags and headed out for my first summer on staff. This began one of the most influential chapters of my life. One of the great privileges I had while working there was leading some backpacking trips like I went on as a camper. One trip sticks out to me during my second summer at Christikon. It was a group from a church in Minnesota and these Christikon trips were a part of their confirmation curriculum. For the most part, the participants had known each other for a long time. The backpacking loop we were on for this trip had a couple options to peak. That’s an exciting prospect for a group of kids from Minnesota! On the second day, we faced a difficult hike, a lot of elevation gain, though not a lot of distance. Our packs were still full and a few of the campers were struggling—and I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t huffing and puffing as well! When we got up to our lunch spot and we were able to see the peak that we would be attempting the next day, that gave a big morale boost to the group. We finished our hike, set up camp, closed the day with worship, and went to bed anticipating a big day coming up. The next day, we set out to peak a mountain. We hiked and hiked and climbed and climbed. If you asked the campers, we were not getting any closer. Toward lunch, some of the campers were starting to lose steam. We were so close but needed a second to assess where we were at and how much we had left. As the group rested, I walked up over the next rise and suddenly was on the peak! I hurried back down to the group, and we made that last push together. We did it! Watching these kids, who had worked so hard to accomplish this goal together, was amazing. My co-leader and I stood off to the side and watched these kids take in the beauty of God’s creation. From a mountaintop, they made emotional phone calls to their parents, explaining how they had climbed a mountain. (Surprisingly, there’s actually cell phone service up there!) These kids had worked so hard and believed in themselves to keep going. They made it to the top, and seeing them accomplish this as a community of faith was Tripsbeautiful.likethese

are why outdoor ministry is such a powerful tool. It gives kids of all ages a space to push themselves, learning what they are capable of. It awakens a curiosity about their faith, and a belief in themselves. And that is what is so powerful and inspiring to me.

Olsen Pancoast joins our SPD staff in September 2022 as our Director of High School Ministry. His passion for young people and outdoor ministry will be tremendous gifts to our community. Senior high ministry (KOIN) kicks off on September 21 with Slap Happy Comedy at 7:30 p.m. and all 9th-12th graders are invited to join us. Friends are welcome!

Over the next 10 days, Roger and Tera explored their interactive outdoor class room learning about this wilderness place. Roger, decked out in waterproof boots, pants, parka and life vest, kayaked among glaciers. He saw five humpback whales, countless seals, and breathtaking scenery. Roger said, “It was so calm and peaceful; it was so quiet and serene.”

To see photos and hear more about their Antarctica adventure, please join Tera and Roger Elias at The Conversation on Tuesday, October 11, at 1 p.m. The SPD Outdoors flag Roger and Tera are holding has literally traveled the world. Need an SPD Outdoors flag to plant on your next adventure? Contact Pastor Mark!

Roald Amundsen led an expedition to Antarctica, being the first to arrive at the South Pole on December 14, 1911. Amundsen wrote of that day, “So we arrived and planted our flag at the geographical South Pole. Thanks be to God!”

Famed Norwegian explorer

AnAdventureAntarctic

31INSPIRE St. Philip the Deacon

One hundred and eleven years after Amundsen planted his country’s flag in Antarctica’s raw sculpted landscape, SPD members Tera and Roger Elias had the opportunity to experience for themselves this mostly unseen, untrodden and unin habited land. Both Tera and Roger grew up with a love for the outdoors and an adventurous spirit. Together they have traveled throughout the United States, parts of Europe, the Caribbean and New Zealand. THANKS BE TO GOD BY MARK SCHMID When in New Zealand, Tera fell in love with the stocky, short-legged, flightless and adorable penguins. So when she received a post card a few years ago from Viking Cruises about an Antarctica expedition where she could be up close to Adélie, Chinstrap and Gentoo penguins in their native habitat, she was hooked. She said to Roger, “I am going to Antarctica; I would love for you to join me.”

Roger and Tera boarded a Military Pro Zodiac (a small inflatable boat) and landed on a pristine snow-covered beach. They were welcomed by thousands of penguins, all dressed in their formal wear, and by seals napping the day away. They went sightseeing aboard Special Operations Boats and took hundreds of pictures of glaciers, ice floes and icebergs, each their own unique and stunning creation.

Reflecting on their adventure to the coldest, highest, driest and windiest continent on earth, Roger and Tera said, “Antarctica was just amazing! It is God’s creation. At times we just sat quietly and tried to take it all in. It was stunning. It was tranquil. There were no highways, no car horns, no distractions ... in that magnificent and majestic setting you can only be drawn into the beauty of God’s tapestry, into the beauty of what God has created and provided.” When we are connected to the outdoors, to God’s creation, we witness the Master artist at work and experience the breadth and depth of God’s love, grace and beauty in our world. Wherever your next adven ture takes you, wherever you “plant your flag,” may you be so moved to say, “Thanks be to God!”

They sailed the frigid waters of the Drake Passage, where the Atlantic, Pacific and Southern Oceans currents converge. Although considered one of the most treach erous voyages for ships to make, on this trip the waters laid down and were as calm as the captain of vessel could ever remember.

Amundsen described the “Seventh Conti nent” as, “The glittering white, shining blue, raven black ... the land looks like a fairy tale. Pinnacle after pinnacle, peak after peak—crevassed, wild as any land on our globe, it lies, unseen and untrodden. It is a wonderful feeling to travel along it.”

On February 24, 2022, Tera and Roger flew from Minneapolis to Miami, Florida, and on to Ushuaia, Argentina, the southern most city in the world. They visited Tierra del Fuego National Park and then boarded their ship, the 665-foot-long Antarctica expedition vessel Viking Octantis.

RECIPE & PHOTOGRAPHY BY

Next, add the lentils to the onion mixture and stir to combine. Toast for 2 minutes, until the lentils look dry. Then, add the vegetable broth, stir to combine and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover and simmer for 10 minutes, or until most of the liquid is absorbed. Add the coconut milk and salt and simmer for another 10 minutes or until the lentils are softened. Just before serving stir in the coconut sugar and lime Servejuice.over cooked rice and garnish generously with cilantro and a dallop of plain yogurt.

1 cup Coconut milk (lite or full fat) ¾ tsp Salt 1 tsp Coconut Sugar ½ Lime, juiced Large handful of Cilantro, chopped (for garnish—optional) Plain yogurt (for topping—optional)

1 tbsp Coconut oil 1 Onion, chopped 2 Garlic cloves, minced 1 tsp ground Ginger

1/2 tsp ground Turmeric 1/2 tsp ground Coriander

MondayMeatlessAnotherJust

A couple of years ago, we started having meatless Mondays at our house. They began as a way to acknowledge the ecological impact of our food choices as well as recognizing that we didn’t need meat to create delicious, filling meals. We’ve come to appreciate plant-based meals and don’t just save them for Mondays anymore!

2 cups Cooked White Basmati Rice

1/2 tsp Paprika powder

32 Spelled dahl or dal, it refers to any lentilbased soup or porridge. This version is Thai/Indian inspired with combination of sweet coconut milk and warming spices. Serve over basmati rice for a quick and hearty dinner on busy fall evenings. Makes 4 servings.

1/2 tsp Garam Masala ½ + 1/3 cups Red Lentils, rinsed

Red Lentil Dahl

1 ½ cups Vegetable Broth

In a large soup pot, melt the coconut oil over medium heat. Add the onions and sauté for a few minutes, until they soften and become translucent. Add the garlic and stir, sautéing for a minute or until fragrant. Add all the spices and stir to combine, allowing the flavors to combine and become fragrant. AMANDA BERGER

OUT & ABOUT A large group from SPD enjoyed the perfect summer evening at Brookview Golf Course and Lawn Bowling in Golden Valley. They enjoyed food and drinks and lawn bowling, as well as getting to meet new friends! 33INSPIRE St. Philip the Deacon 37 6241 5 PHOTO 1 Our group of 58 receives instructions from the staff PHOTO 2 Nancy Bixby, Shali Baldry, Amy Moon, Elaine Granquist PHOTO 3 Julie Leonard, Ed Wasz, Jo Rimmereid, Chuck Leonard, Lisa Wasz, Paul Rimmereid, Rex Rugland, Cheryl Rugland PHOTO 4 Karen Landrow, Karen Mikkelson, Paula Pursley, Steve Mueller PHOTO 5 Paul Carlson, Susan Little, Joe Little, Brent Dahlberg, Leah Leeper, Jim Carlson, Nancy Carlson PHOTO 6 Sharon Vogel, Jodi Thielges, Pam Sikkila, Craig Stroermer PHOTO 7 Jodi Thielges throws a bowl

—Dan & Claudine Galloway, Emma, Northern Michigan University, Nursing Thank you for everything that has made my experience as a youth member so exciting!

—Bella Enger, Northern Michigan University We want to offer our sincere gratitude to the congregation of St. Philip the Deacon for the years of support through prayers and programming for our daughter Emma. We were able to see firsthand how Emma grew spiritually and made close connections throughout confirmation, philanthropic programming such as the Sleep Out and Families Moving Forward, and SPD Outdoors trips like Boundary Waters and Christikon. St. Philip youth staff have been such incredible role models and we are grateful for their dedication!”

We invite you to pray for all of our students, teachers, administrators and other school workers as we begin a new school year. We especially ask your prayers over those who are beginning college and moving on to their next adventure. We will miss seeing their beautiful faces at church each week but are also excited for what the future holds for each of them. The following words of gratitude come from parents and students of the high school graduating class of 2022, pictured at the Senior Brunch in May. Everything this congregation has done to support its high school graduates cannot be understated. I loved each and every moment I spent with this group, whether it be in the Boundary Waters or right here at the Wednesday evening bonfires. These little bright spots helped me get through whatever was going on at school!”

From hiking in Montana at Christikon to traveling via canoe in the Boundary Waters, I have been able to see God’s work in the world.” —Teddy Puzzo, Concordia College, History Thanks to the support of the SPD community, my children have grown with their daily lives directly intertwined with their religious community.

I am so thankful that I have been a part of the SPD congregation and family! I love how supportive, uplifting, generous and kind our community is, and I am proud to call this place my church home! One of my favorite memories has been being a group and station leader at Vacation Bible School every summer. I love being with the kids, dancing and laughing with them, and leading them through such a fun-filled week where they can learn about God! Overall, SPD has been a very meaningful and special place for me, and I am thankful for all of the staff and congregation members who have supported me as I’ve grown as a person throughout the years.” —Chelsea Klaphake, Wartburg College, Music Therapy & Music Education

The youth programs at SPD have been a huge part of my life growing up. Ranging from Faith Creek to middle and high school summer trips, my friends and I have done it all. None of this would have been possible without you, the members of this church: the hours you spend volunteering to plan and execute the we events, the funds you donate to make them better than any of us could have expected, and the stories you allow us to share afterwards are all such tremendous parts of the youth program here at SPD. As we all go into a new chapter of our lives and head from SPD youth programming to adult programming, these are some of the memories we still hold most dear. Thank you for making this possible—my experience truly wouldn’t have been so great without help from everyone who’s donated to these programs.”

—Ellie Puzzo, Concordia College, Forensic Pathology

—Linnea Hagestuen, North Dakota State University, Biochemistry SPD has such a welcoming congregation. People will come up to me after church and ask how I’m doing simply out of kindness. I always feel very supported. I appreciate donations from the congregation that have allowed my friends and I to participate in special trips like visiting the Boundary Waters and Montana. I have made unfor gettable memories and grown so much on these trips that were made possible by our congregation. Thank you.” —Olivia Landro, St. Olaf College, Biology It is thanks to you that over the last several years I have found irreplaceable friends and memories. The summer after my eighth grade year I decided that I wanted to go on a trip to Christikon. While I was excited, I was also very nervous. I didn’t really know anyone and was worried that I would feel lonely. Even though I was nervous I went on the “ “ “ “ “ “ “ “ “

As I head off to college, I will remember highlights that were made possible because of St. Philip the Deacon. I participated in hiking trips in Montana in both middle school and high school, and there was nothing like the fellowship on the trail. Multiple trips to the BWCA have given me both an appreciation of nature, as well as self-confidence … it’s amazing what you can do if given the opportunity.

—Jenny Puzzo, Parent

GIVING THANKS

trip. It was challenging and there were times that I wondered if I would make it, but because of this experience I found friends that I couldn’t imagine not having today. For this I thank you, the congre gation.” —Trygve Schmid, Michigan Technological University, Mechanical Engineering

From the Scouting programs that SPD supports to the youth programming, my children have seen members of SPD doing things to enrich their lives. As they head off to college, I know that their connections here at SPD have given them a solid understanding of what community looks like and how their religious community can be an additional source of growth. Thank you for supporting our youth. The opportunities they have had as members of SPD have given them strength, faith, commitment and love.”

Of course, I’ve also thoroughly enjoyed some of the smaller opportunities for service to the church and the community, like singing in the choir, helping with Families Moving Forward, sleeping out in boxes for IOCP, and helping lead Confirmation classes. St. Philip made so many different kinds of opportunities available to me and to my friends, and being a part of the St. Philip community has had a significant place in my life. Thank you!”

My favorite memory of my times at St. Philip the Deacon is my time spent in the wilderness.

2 p.m. Bring your furry friend for an outdoor Blessing of the Animals service. This is a joyful and energetic event, enjoyed by pets and family members alike! Pets should be leashed or secured in a pet carrier if you think they will be a little stressed.

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BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS

INSPIRE St. Philip the Deacon 35

FALL FAMILY FESTIVAL

Sunday, October 16 at 3 p.m. Minnesota Symphonic Winds (MSW) Friday, November 4 at 7 p.m. National Lutheran Choir – All Saints Concert Sunday, November 13 at 4 p.m. Augsburg Centennial Singers Sunday, November 20 at 4 p.m. Metropolitan Symphony Sunday, December 11 at 2:30 p.m. Apollo Men’s Chorus

We are delighted to host several concerts throughout the fall in our beautiful Sanctuary. Ticketing requirements vary. See our weekly email newsletter for more information about each concert.

3 p.m. Our family Fall Festival includes a Trunk-orTreat for children. Families can come to SPD and enjoy a safe trick-or-treating option in the parking lot, in addition to food, fall crafts, a petting zoo and games for the whole family. There is no charge for the event, but for planning purposes, please register at spdlc.org/register.

CONCERTS AT SPD

PIGS & PIGSKIN Noon. Join Pastor Mark Schmid as he fires up the smoker for this family-friendly annual event, while we watch the Minnesota Vikings take on the Buffalo Bills.

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Describe when you knew you’d be going into ministry. I didn’t ever think I would go into ministry. When I was young, visiting missionaries would describe exotic places which sounded exciting. However, they often included descriptions of snakes and bugs. I thought, “Not for me!” For whatever reason, since I was not going away to a mission field nor did I consider becoming a pastor, I thought ministry was not an option either. For about 20 years, I “did my own thing.” Not once during that time, did I think to ask my Creator what he wanted me to do for work. Finally, as I worked in my previous jobs, I “worked as if I was working for the Lord,” which changed everything. I prayed and asked where God wanted me, followed that “nudge,” and applied for this position when it became available.

2. It takes attention to detail and unconditional love to work alongside teenagers and their families. Renee Putnam, who joined the SPD staff in 2018, has both in abundance. She serves as the Youth Team Administrator and plays a vital role in seeing that our confirmation and senior high ministries are supported and accessible for both youth and their families.

02 . Learn to play an instrument. Piano perhaps? 03. Read all the books. How do you take care of your self—spiritually, emotionally and physically—so that you stay healthy in ministry? Several years ago, I felt called to learn how to pray. It is a continual process, but I am learning how to ask Jesus how he wants to love me best and listen and do what he says. I am fortu nate to have a solid group of mentors who are currently teaching me about Listening Prayer. Praying and spending set-aside time to listen together has been transformative, and I really miss it when we are unable to meet. I am also learning how to guard my time better and not let other activities or plans encroach on that intentional time. Caring for my body affects me emotionally, too, so I have begun Plogging. (Plogging = walking or jogging and picking up trash.) It is a good fit for me to walk with a purpose— caring for my body and the environment at the same time. What are you passionate about right now? I find it easier to love God with my heart and mind but do I with all my strength, too? I prefer the easy road, so strength is diffi cult for me. Therefore, I am in a season of learning self-discipline and becoming a more responsible consumer. Yes, yes, by “consumer” I mean that as a blanket statement (food, purchased products, what I listen to or watch/read, etc.). So I am learning about Ayurveda, inten tional purchasing and stewarding what I already have. I am passionate about what I intentionally consume and hope to carry forward life-giving kind words and actions to I’mothers.alsopassionate about trees and flowers. I love them. So much.

kids-in-high-school related. My kids (Senior and Sophomore at Wayzata) are interested in many different things, which makes me interested in things like trap shooting, kayaking and paddleboarding. I think I may even be developing a love of these things!

On my first day on the job as Youth Ministry Administrator, Pastor Mark prayed for me and my ministry here at St. Philip the Deacon. That prayer was when it really, truly sank into those deep places in my heart that God has given me a ministry, too. I am not “just” supporting others in their ministry, rather admin support is a ministry and used by God to further his kingdom. What’s one thing that people would be surprised to know about you? I wanted to be on a reality TV show, so I auditioned for Ameri ca’s Next Action Star in 2004. My audition was epic. I’m so grateful I didn’t even make the bloopers reel!

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What are three things on your lifetime to-do list? 01 . In this season, my lifetime to-do list is 36

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FAMILIAR FACES PUTNAM

Women’s Retreat 2022 DEEPENING OUR RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD AND OTHERS THROUGH OUR STORIES Together, we will listen deeply to the stories we tell about our lives so that we may increase our awareness of God’s action in them. Through time in prayer and reflection, personal writing, and sacred conversation, we will learn how to tell more life-giving stories. Register today at spdlc.org/register. Questions? Contact Pastor Valerie Strand Patterson at vstrand@spdlc.org. FEATURING Diane M. Ph.D.Millis, at St. Philip the Deacon OCTOBER14-15 Celebrating 20 years! 2022-2023 SCHEDULE ARTHUR BROOKS Thursday, October 13, 2022 MICHAEL CHAN Thursday, November 3, 2022 DAVE ROBISON Thursday, February 9, 2023 All events scheduled will be offered both in-person and via livestream. All lectures begin at 7:00 p.m. Free and open to the public. www.faith-and-life.org COLE ARTHUR RILEY Thursday, March 9, 2023 MICHAEL CURRY Tuesday, May 9, 2023

“The Lord God gives me the right words to encourage the weary. Each morning he awakens me eager to learn his teaching; he made me willing to listen and not rebel or run away.” ISAIAH 50:4-5 (CEV) 17205 County Road 6 Plymouth, MN 55447 VISIT US ONLINE AT SPDLC.ORG