Inspire: Invitation

INSPIRE

I N V I TAT I O N

a m a g a z i n e f o r t h e s t. p h i l i p t h e d e a c o n c o m m u n i t y

Come & Eat • Chris Heuertz: Reflections of a Contemplative in Action • By Invitation • Worshipping with Children • God’s Work, Our Hands FA L L < ¤ + …

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IN

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EVERY ISSUE

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Sanctuary Choir SPD Singers Chancel Choir Dynamic Deacons

Adult Middle & High School 2nd-5th Grade Pre-K-1st Grade

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Sing the praises of the Lord, you his faithful people; praise his holy name.

PSALM 30:4

3 Editorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Letter

4 Scripture Connection

5 Read, Watch, Listen

6 Ref lections on Faith

FRE S H C ON V E RS AT I ON .

RE A L L IFE TOG E T HE R .

A new series connecting faith to everyday experiences. For more detailed course descriptions and registration, visit spdlc.org.

S AW D U S T & S O U L WITH MARK SCHMID

Begins September 10 U N D E R S TA N D I N G YO U R G R I E F W I T H VA L E R I E S T R A N D P AT T E R S O N

Begins September 18

30 Modern Day Pilgrims

33 Out & About

34 Giving Thanks

35 Calendar of Events

FA I T H & S C I E N C E : A N O T H E R L O O K WITH TIM WESTERMEYER

Begins October 22

36 Familiar Faces

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St. Philip the Deacon

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F E AT U R E A R T I C L E S

ENTER

E XPLORE

E NGAGE

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Devoted Living: Devotional Reading

Come & Eat

God’s Work, Our Hands: Invitation to Service

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Worshipping with Children

Chris Heuertz: Ref lections of a Contemplative in Action

13 Shaped By Space

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By Invitation

16 Person, Place or Thing?

24 Moving Deeper in Faith

26 C’mon In To My House

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INSPIRE

Vol. 2, Issue 1, Fall 2019 Published by St. Philip the Deacon Lutheran Church 17205 County Road 6 Plymouth, MN 55447 (763) 475-7100 editor in chief

Tim Westermeyer m a n ag i n g e d i t o r

Amanda Berger design

Malley Design s ta f f w r i t e r s

Cheryl Mathison, Kate Sterner contributions

Mother -Daughter

Cindy Carlson, Britney Schulz website

www.spdlc.org/inspire email editorial

aberger@spdlc.org o n t h e c ov e r

Photo by Roan Lavery DECEMBER 6 -8, 2019 S O U T H F O R K FA R M

©2019 St. Philip the Deacon Lutheran Church. All rights reserved.

LESTER PRAIRIE, MN

Mothers and daughters, ages 8+, are invited to join us for this memorable and beautiful weekend of connection and discovery.

Register at spdlc.org

“She is clothed with strength and dignity and laughs without fear of the future.”

PROVERBS 31:25

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 submissions 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.

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St. Philip the Deacon

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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

“By entering through faith into what God has always wanted to do for us—set us right with him, make us fit for him—we have it all together with God because of our Master Jesus. And that’s not all: We throw open our doors to God and discover at the same moment that he has already thrown open his door to us.

We find ourselves standing where we always hoped we might stand—out in the wide open spaces of God’s grace and glory, standing tall and shouting our praise.”

ROMANS 5:1-2 (MSG)

t one time or another, we’ve all been the one who doesn’t know where they belong, the new kid in the class or a visitor in a foreign land.

We hesitate to engage those we do not know out of fear of the unknown. We are slow to initiate a relationship and do the hard work of getting to know one another.

We, perhaps, don’t want to take up someone’s time or allow for the possibility of rejection. Sometimes that fear keeps us from opening up the door to new people and relationships.

And yet, when I have opened up to new people and experiences, the generosity of the host has made all the difference.

When the invitation was warm and kind, I knew I would be welcomed, included and looked after.

Invitation is the first offering of the spiritual gift of hospitality, something for which SPD is known. An invitation, in simple and few words, conveys that a person is seen and wanted. In the book The Simplest Way to Change the World, the authors believe that the everyday hospitality of Christians is that which will transform the world. They write, “Any time we practice hospitality, we follow in the steps of our lavishly hospitable God. … When we are cold, separated, and distant from those around us, we communicate that God is cold, separated and distant. When we are warm, loving and gracious, we put the gospel on display.”

In our Invitation issue, my hope is that you find many ways in which to find entry, both for yourself and for those you have not yet met. I also issue you a challenge: In what ways can you invite others to experience the goodness of our God? Whether it is here in our church, in your home, in your neighborhood, your work/school or in the spaces in between, where do you have the opportunity to throw open the door and extend God’s lavish invitation?

Pax Christi,

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SPD BOO K CLU B Our book club meets on the 3rd Tuesday of each month for a staff-led discussion of a book featuring topics of faith.

All are welcomeâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;whether you finished the book or not!

A N IN V ITATION TO RE A D THROUG H THE BIBLE IN 6 6 DAYS Have you ever wanted to read through the Bible but have been intimidated by the enormity of the task? Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a reading plan that is manageable and will take you through the Bible, one book at a time. Each day there is just one verse to read! Most of the verses were selected because they represent a broad theme of the book. Some, however, were chosen because of a powerful and important promise. To support your journey through the Bible consider using a good study Bible (for example, the Lutheran Study Bible from Augsburg Fortress or the Concordia Self-Study Bible) and read the introduction to each book along with the assigned verse. When you have completed this Bible reading plan, you will have followed the thread of salvation from Genesis all the way to Revelation.

S E L EC T E D V E RS E S

Genesis 1:1

Nahum 1:7

Exodus 20:2

Habakkuk 1:2

Leviticus 19:2

Zephaniah 3:17

Numbers 10:12

Haggai 2:4

Deuteronomy 4:9

Zechariah 9:9

Joshua 1:7

Malachi 3:1

Judges 17:6

Matthew 16:24

Ruth 1:16

Mark 6:41

I Samuel 8:5

Luke 15:11

II Samuel 7:16

John 3:16

I Kings 4:29

Acts 1:8

II Kings 17:38

Romans 3:28

I Chronicles 9:1

I Corinthians 1:18

II Chronicles 10:19

II Corinthians 1:9b

Ezra 6:16

Galatians 5:1

Nehemiah 12:27

Ephesians 4:5

Esther 9:19

Philippians 4:4

Job 19:25

Colossians 1:15

Psalm 118:8

I Thessalonians 5:10

Proverbs 24:3

II Thessalonians 3:3

Ecclesiastes 3:11

I Timothy 6:12

Song of Songs 2:16

II Timothy 1:14

Isaiah 53:5

Titus 3:5

Jeremiah 31:33

Philemon 1:12

Lamentations 3:23

Hebrews 1:3

Ezekiel 37:3

James 2:17

Daniel 7:14

I Peter 2:21

Hosea 13:6

II Peter 3:9

NOV EMBER 1 9

Joel 2:13

I John 4:8

The Heart of Perfection by Colleen Carroll Campbell.

Discussion led by Pastor Valerie Strand Patterson.

Amos 5:24

II John 1:6

Obadiah 1:15

III John 1:4

Jonah 2:2

Jude 1:21

Micah 6:8

Revelation 21:1

SEPTEMBER 17

Everybody Always by Bob Goff.

Discussion led by Cindy Carlson & Renee Putnam.

OCTOBER 15

Arguing Religion by Robert Barron. Discussion led by Pastor Tim Westermeyer.

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Read MY L AST CONTINENT

by Midge Raymond—As you begin this novel about scientist Deb Gardener and her passion for penguins and the Antarctic continent, you know that heartbreak and

Faith & Life COLLEEN CARROLL CAMPBELL NOVEMBER 21 7:00 P M

The Faith & Life Lecture Series continues with our speaker Colleen Carroll Campbell, former presidential speech writer, journalist and author. Her lecture, Faith & Perfection: Trading Our Dreams for God’s, focuses on themes of comparison, control and guilt, and the toxicity of perfectionism in our faith lives.

The Faith & Life Lecture Series is free and open to the public. All are welcome!

For more information visit faith-and-life.org

disaster are inevitable. Part love story, part love song to a suffering world, this novel will haunt you long after you finish the last chapter.

Watch WON ’ T YOU BE M Y NEIGHBOR ?

PG-13—This charming documentary offers a behindthe-scenes look at the life and ministry of Fred Rogers, creator of “Mr. Roger’s Neighborhood.”

A touching tribute to a man whose life and faith impacted generations of children, reminding them to love and know that they are loved in return.

Listen 10 THINGS TO TELL YOU Podcast—Laura Tremaine believes in asking good questions to take your relationships deeper—whether that’s with your friends, your journal or for creating more meaning on social media.

The typically 30 minute-ish episodes ask a question and then unpack it. Listen to the full episode or just borrow her questions for your next dinner party or coffee shop date.

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BY TIM WESTERME YER

Y O U ’ R E I N V I T E D . . . When we read those words—when we receive an invitation—my hunch is that we feel overwhelmingly positive emotions. Happiness that someone thought enough of us to include us in something important. Anticipation about the upcoming special event—whatever it is. Excitement that we’ll get to experience it with people we know and love.

All of which means that we’re grateful to receive invitations. We appreciate them. We view them as a natural part of the important and significant relationships in our lives. We understand them as extensions of the love and care we have for those who are doing the inviting.

So if that’s all true—if people who receive invitations appreciate getting them—why is it that when it comes to church we are often reluctant to extend invitations?

What makes us balk at saying to someone: “Would you like to join me for something that is important to me that I think you might also appreciate and enjoy?”

A few reasons come to mind: – Maybe we’re concerned that we’re “imposing” our beliefs on someone else.

– Maybe we’re worried about rejection if the person we invite says they aren’t interested.

– Maybe we’re afraid we’ll get questions we can’t answer after we extend the invitation.

– Maybe bringing up issues of faith makes us feel too vulnerable and exposed—we worry we’ll appear unsophisticated in a world that is largely cynical and suspicious when it comes to matters of faith.

These are all real, genuine and honest barriers to extending an invitation to church. But none of them

override the first and primary point here, which is this: If you extend an invitation—to anything, even church— people will generally be honored and grateful that you asked. That’s true even if they ultimately say “no thanks.”

All of these concerns and barriers are addressed nicely by the first chapter of the Gospel of John. When Jesus is asked a question by some people curious about him, his response is simply: “Come and see.” His own disciples use the same phrase later when they are asked a question about Jesus.

They don’t say: Let me impose my beliefs on you. And they don’t say: Let me answer every question you’ve ever had about faith. And there isn’t any pressure or passive aggressiveness. They don’t say: If you don’t come I’ll be very hurt and embarrassed.

Instead, they simply make an invitation. “Come, and see.” Decide for yourself. See if there’s something here that may speak to your deepest needs and wants and desires. See if you might better understand yourself and the world through participation in this community. Find out if there is meaning for you here.

It’s their choice. Maybe they’ll come and see. Maybe they won’t. But at least they know they’ve been invited. And for that, I promise you, they’ll be grateful.

Happy Inviting,

Tim

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St. Philip the Deacon

M E D I TAT I O N

“Hospitality is not to change people, but to offer them space where change can take place.”

HENRI NOUWEN

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DEVOTED LIVING DE VOTIONAL READING

WORDS BY AMANDA BERGER

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St. Philip the Deacon

“The Holy Spirit uses the words of the Bible to present to us the heart and character of God,” writes Michael Foss in his book Real Faith for Real Life, writing about the daily practice of devotional Bible reading. Reading scripture is the primary way that we gain insight into who God is and learn to walk as disciples of Christ.

But digging into scripture as a daily devotional practice can feel intimidating and overwhelming. Where do you begin? What if what I’m reading doesn’t say anything to me? Where am I going to find time and energy to do this practice on a regular basis?

First off, know that this devotional reading of the Bible doesn’t require a Ph.D. in theology or years of intense study of ancient Israel. Devotional reading is not about reading for information; it’s about reading for connection and deepening your relationship with Jesus. Your reading may inspire questions, but don’t feel discouraged by not having all the answers. Make a note (or keep a journal!) of your questions to consider as you attend worship, ask a pastor, or do additional research outside of your devotional practice.

When asked for her advice in starting a practice of devotional reading, Pastor Cheryl Mathison had this advice, “To decrease the intimidation, begin with a devotional book as opposed to ‘I’m going to read the Bible cover to cover.’ And, make sure the devotional book is manageable. Entries come in varying lengths; chose one that you have time for. The best tip for staying with daily devotion is this: tie it to something you already do every single day. Brushing your teeth for example, or with the cup of tea you have just before bedtime.”

TIPS FOR PERSONAL B I B L E S T U DY

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Find a quiet time and place where you won’t be interrupted for the duration of your study.

While devotions first thing in the morning is most common, don’t discount that a midmorning break, over lunch, in the transition between work and home life or right before bed may be the best time for you.

Begin with prayer, asking God to speak to you through the scriptures and invite God’s Word to work on your heart.

As you read, use the following questions to guide your study: What does this passage tell me about God? What does this passage tell me about the world? What lesson might be present in this passage just for me?

S P D S TA F F P I C K S DE VOTION A L R E A DING

One of the most frequent frustrations of those beginning a devotional practice is this: “I don’t feel anything. I’m not sure I am getting anything out of it.” Pastor Mathison offered two ways to think about that. She said, “Not every day is going to produce a 5 star response to a reading. Sometimes the words are just what you needed to hear and other days, the words make little impression. Adjust your expectations. It’s ok. God is glorified and delighted simply by the time you have devoted to being together. Now, having said that, maybe you need a different resource. Try out a new devotional book. Before you buy, read a couple of entries to see if they resonate with you.”

Also, remember that devotional practices do not all look the same. For some it is simply reading a text. For others, Bible art journaling, memorizing a verse, or choosing a verse of the day to return to over and over again are what keeps them connected to scripture.

Savor

By Shauna Niequist (Amanda Berger)

Jesus Always

By Sarah Young (Susan Path)

40-Day Journey with Dietrich Bonhoeffer Edited by Ron Klug (Justin Daleiden)

Everyday Holy

By Melanie Shankle (Trisha Ragner)

A Diary of Private Prayer

By John Baillie (Cheryl Mathison) Inner Voice of Love

By Henri Nouwen (Michael Morris)

The Art of Pastoring: Contemplative Reflections

By William C. Martin (Tim Westermeyer)

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WORSHIPPING WITH CHILDREN

BY C H E R Y L M AT H I S O N

LET THE LITTLE CHILDREN COME TO ME; DO NOT STOP THEM; FOR IT IS TO SUCH AS THE SE THAT THE KINGDOM OF GOD BELONGS. MARK 10:14B

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D

uring the Sacrament of Holy Baptism, parents and godparents are reminded that they are entrusted with responsibility for the faithful development of their child. This includes, among other things, bringing the child to worship.

Here at St. Philip the Deacon we take the promises of baptism very seriously and that’s why we welcome children of all ages in worship. Worship is for everyone; as the Psalmist writes, “Let everything that has breath praise the Lord!” We believe that children not only belong in worship together with their families, but that our worship is enhanced by their presence.

We also understand that worshipping with a little one isn’t always easy. When asked about worshipping with children, parents reported that they themselves sometimes felt as though they got little out of the service because they were distracted by their child(ren). They were so busy keeping them occupied and quiet and contained and redirected that they were running on fumes by the time the sermon began and that’s just the halfway point in the service!

While we acknowledge the challenges of tending to a little one in the pew, we believe that worshipping with your child is still priority number one and it is hands down one of the best gifts you can give to your family.

Think about it this way: When children begin to learn to feed themselves,

parents are likely to say something very similar about dinner: “I don’t get anything out of it anymore. Between the spilled milk, the spaghetti and bananas in the hair and down the tummy and on the f loor, and the chatter and the noise, I’m exhausted before I have even had a bite of my own food. I can hardly remember the last time I ate a hot meal!”

True, but, guess what? We haven’t found a parent yet who has decided to stop feeding their children. Worship is like Sunday dinner for your child; it’s messy and it’s sometimes hard, but it is always nourishing and life sustaining.

We gather in worship to be fed with the bread of life through the word of God, which comes in so many rich and diverse forms: the Bible readings, the hymns, the anthems, the

sermon, the sacraments, the liturgy AND the community of saints gathered for a shared purpose: to praise God. What a rich opportunity to grow together! What a blessing to enter the house of our Lord and together offer prayer and praise and thanksgiving!

Finally, if you are not worshipping with a child, hear this from the tenth chapter of Hebrews, “And let us consider how to provoke one another to love and good deeds, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another.” Let us all be encouragers for one another in the practice of worship. Let us be generous with kind words and understanding hearts. Let us offer a hand when needed. And, most of all, let us show appreciation to the parents doing the important work of passing on the faith to their children.

TIPS FOR WORSHIPPING WITH SMALL CHILDREN

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S T A R T I N W O R S H I P. Always. It

may be your practice to drop off the littlest ones in the childcare center before worship begins but we encourage you to start off in worship together as a family. We spend so much time apart during the week, this is an opportunity to participate in a shared experience.

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S I T N E A R T H E F R O N T . We know.

T h is sou nd s cou nter int u it ive.

Parents generally sit in the back.

Near an exit. But children are far more likely to be engaged in what they can see.

Up front they can see the faces of the worship leaders and all the movement at the altar and in the choir loft. Be assured, what’s up front is far more interesting than the backs of people's heads.

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PROVIDE A RUNNING COMMENTA RY O N W H AT I S H A PPE N I N G .

Or, as the writer of Proverbs put it, “Train up a child in the way he should go,

even when he is old he will not depart from it.” This sounds hard but is really nothing more than helping your little one understand what to do and what is happening.

Direct their attention to where the action is. Like this: Do you see the acolyte? Where is the music coming from? Who is talking now? Or, at the offering, where are the ushers going? Invite the children to stand and sit as appropriate and show them how to be still for prayer. Let them put in the offering and pass the plate. Keep the

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FAQS What

if

my

child

becomes

inconsolable and I have to leave?

worship folder in their view and when they are old enough let them practice finding the readings in the Bible and the hymns in the hymnal. To put it another way: Show and tell.

Remember, this too shall pass and before you know it your little one will be participating in worship like they have been doing it their entire lives. Which is exactly our hope.

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C O M E P R E P A R E D . Start talking

about church before you leave home. Talk about who you will see and what you will do. When you arrive, remember that Rainbow Bags are available on the stairway landing. They are filled with quiet age-appropriate, faithful books and small toys. Additionally, coloring sheets of each one of the stained glass panels are available. You might even consider packing your own worship bag at home. Fill it with special quiet toys that are only available for church. Please know, these things are not provided as distractions but rather offered as tools to keep little hands occupied. Did you know that the single most physically active year of life is age 3?! It is! Busy little worshippers are doing what they are supposed to be doing: moving! And also please know, as the apostle Paul wrote: faith comes by hearing. Whether your child is upside down next to you or on his/her back under the pew in front of you, he/she is being bathed in God’s word!

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REMEMBER, THIS IS BUT A S E A S O N . Ecclesiastes 3:1 reads, “For everything there is a season.”

Is it OK to bring snacks for my ENTER THE WORSHIP SPACE

toddler? There is no rule about

W I T H J O Y . The Psalmist says:

snacks for little ones in the worship center; but consider making fellowship and snack time after worship something that your child can anticipate.

Enter his gates with thanksgiving.

Your attitude rubs off on your little ones. Come with an expectant heart and trust that even though your little one may spend the entire service squirming and crawling over everything, some very important things are happening for your child’s faith development. They are learning that worshipping God is important, that Jesus loves them, and that church is a place of friends.

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Where do I go? We understand that it can feel like the walk of shame to get up from the front of the worship center and walk with an unhappy little one to an exit, but we promise you: lots of us have been there! Step out into the narthex and take a little break. Give your little one a few minutes to gather themselves, to run off some energy, and then, return. If necessary, bring your child to the childcare center. It is staffed with caregivers who are happy to welcome and tend to your little one while you return to worship.

S TAY F O R F E L L O W S H I P. Worship

is over and your little ones are ready for a snack and so are you!

Stop in Fellowship Hall, find a table and share a treat and some conversation with other members of our faith community.

The relationships you develop with other faithful parents will equip you as a parent for the road ahead. If you are new and feel as though you don’t know others, let your child lead. They are naturally drawn to other children which gives you an opportunity to introduce yourself to the parents.

My child won’t go up to the Children’s Message without me.

Is it OK if I accompany him/her?

Absolutely! When you come forward, sit on the steps with your child in your lap or next to you. As your child gets more comfortable, sit in a front row pew where he/ she can see you. Pretty soon, your child will be confident enough to come up alone.

Isn’t it distracting to you as a worship leader when children are fussing? Nope (unless, of

course, the child is mine).

Seriously, we know parents are doing their best to settle fussy ones and the short time it takes is not a problem.

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St. Philip the Deacon

SHAPED BY SPACE

BY AMANDA BERGER

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inston Churchill famously said, “We shape our buildings, and thereafter our buildings shape us.” While the church is not just a building, but the living, breathing body of Christ, our facilities play an integral part in the way we are able to engage in ministry with each other and with our community. Any time SPD has pursued an expansion or redesign of our physical plant, it has been done with careful thought as to the impact of that improvement. This past summer, our building underwent a dramatic makeover in the mid-level (you didn’t even know we had a mid-level, did you?) and in our administrative offices.

Previously, the mid-level could have been described as “mid-century Eastern-bloc chic” with dated bathrooms, cinderblock classrooms, redundant hallways and a youth room huddled into an out-ofthe-way corner. “Our renovation of the mid-level gives us the look and feel of an addition, making better use of existing

space, without the high price tag that accompanies new construction,” said Senior Pastor Tim Westermeyer. While SPD has a lot of meeting spaces, we have continued to struggle with rooms designed for mid-size groups, especially those that allow for the ability to be both classrooms and conversational spaces.

“We also believe that the new space, particularly the Fireside Room, provides an intimate and comfortable space for bridal parties and families at funerals,” said Westermeyer.

Included in the remodel was a completely redesigned space for our youth. “I have hopes that the new youth area feels like home away from home to our youth, that our youth know that this space is for them and that speaks to how our congregation values them,” said Senior High Director Justin Daleiden. “I’m looking forward to filling this space with our young people so they can put their own fingerprint on it.”

Intention is a powerful thing and finally creating a space designed with our youth in

mind sends a message that they are loved and acknowledges what an important part of our community they are. “In the past, we had to get very creative with seating and planning of activities simply due to the layout. This new design allows us the capacity for bigger activities, a much more organic f low within the space, and to have more dynamic youth events without the space limiting planning.”

Additionally, a fresh face was put on the SPD administrative office and reception area. “Our old reception area was confusing,” said Tracy Klaphake, office administrator. “Visitors didn’t seem to know where to go or who to talk to. My hope is that when people walk into our church, it feels open and immediately welcoming. They feel invited in and comfortable, so that they aren’t left standing awkwardly in the hallway. The new office space does just that.”

Our newly remodeled spaces speak to SPD’s renewed emphasis on invitation to our community. “We are a healthy and vital congregation, but can’t become complacent,” said Westermeyer. “We have something good, special, sacred; it’s our responsibility to let other people know that it is here and available to them.”

The redesigned spaces help us to do that, extending a warm welcome to all who enter here.

We offer our deepest thanks to those who have already shown their support of this project. If you would like to make a one-time or recurring gift, you may contribute at spdlc.org/egiving or by contacting Cheryl Sjaarda at (763) 475-7124.

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COME & EAT

BY AMANDA

BERGER

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St. Philip the Deacon

“C om e a n d e at. Th e s e a r e t h e g i f t s of G od, f or t h e pe opl e of G od.” So say the words of blessing as we are invited to God’s table every time we gather to celebrate in bread and wine, body and blood of Jesus, our place in God’s family. It is an open table for young and old, rich and poor, those who are visitors and those who are at home. It is the ultimate place of welcome offered to all.

Several times a year, we offer first communion training, inviting those in our community to learn about the Lord’s Supper, what it means and how it connects us to the Christian family throughout all time and around the world.

As we teach our children about the importance of the Lord’s Supper, at SPD we talk about how every meal tells a story. The children have a chance to talk about celebrating a special meal in their home and the ways they prepare for guests. They continue by learning about the Old Testament story of Passover and the Seder meal shared to this day, which commemorates that event.

The children gather around a Seder table, set with unleavened bread, salt water and bitter herbs to talk about the Last Supper, when Jesus’ disciples gathered for a Seder meal of their own, which then becomes our Lord’s Supper. And finally, they end around the altar with a chance to see and taste the bread and wine which they will celebrate their first communion.

The children also learn about setting the table and how, despite different names, many of the elements found on the communion table are also found in our homes. There are the chalice (cup), paten (plate), altar cloth (tablecloth) and, that in each case preparations are made for those who receive. The table is set and ready; the guest has been anticipated.

“We talk about how we prepare for the meal,” said Trisha Ragner, Children’s Ministry. “We talk about how we not only prepare for a meal with making food and cleaning the house, but also how we prepare ourselves mentally and emotionally for a meal. The same is true when we come to the Lord’s Table—that we have prepared our hearts, minds and bodies to receive the meal.”

The children come into the First Communion Workshop feeling nervous and not sure what to expect, says Ragner. But as they progress from table to table, they become immersed in the stories, learning about their place in each story and about the invitation to God ’s table which has been extended to them. At last when they come to the altar there is a sense of excitement and expectation about the meal and the grace set before them.

At St. Philip the Deacon, we celebrate communion weekly at our Saturday and Monday worship services, and 11:00 a.m. service on Sundays. Communion is celebrated monthly and on festival Sundays at the 8:30 a.m. and 9:45 a.m. services.

Our next First Communion Workshop is Tuesday, October 15 at 6:15 pm and is recommended for children in 2nd-5th grades. Register at spdlc.org/register.

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PERSON, PLACE OR THING?

BY AMANDA BERGER

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t isn’t your grandmother’s confirmation class. Gone are the days of memorizing Luther’s Small Catechism and intimidating interviews with the pastor—or worse, standing up in front of the entire congregation to be grilled on the doctrines of faith.

Rather, when you enter the building on a Wednesday evening, you’ll find it ripe with energy, excitement and the joy of being with friends. Our Confirmation ministry is designed to help our young people grow in the knowledge of the Bible and Christian faith, but maybe even more important, to feel connected to peers who share their same faith, to have opportunities for service, and to develop meaningful relationships with caring adults.

Confirmation ministry offers an invitation to young people to become a part of something bigger than themselves, allowing them to wonder about God and faith together. As young people’s brains develop during adolescence, they are better able to understand the gray areas of faith and are asking important questions about God, the world, and their place in it.

“It’s a beautiful time of questioning! Not the kid questions simply asking ‘why, why, why?’ over and over again,” says Clay Thomas, Director of Middle School Ministry, “but a genuine deep need for understanding at the gray areas of life.

[O]ur faith is meant to be lived out, not simply discussed and Confirmation affords many opportunities to live out that

faith together. Whether that is packing food for Interfaith Outreach or shooting Nerf darts at one another, these things are all a part of our faith life together.”

Confirmation isn’t just about meeting requirements or about pleasing parents or grandparents. It’s deeply relational.

“We use the buzz word ‘community’ a lot when talking about Confirmation and the biggest part of being in a community is the being part. The simple act of presence carries a lot of weight when it comes to community,” says Thomas. “We hope that we engage a whole lot of adults who care for our students and love them. We also hope that the youth come to know a God who is always with them wherever they go.”

St. Philip the Deacon

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While Confirmation in the Lutheran tradition has always been seen as a major rite of passage, symbolizing a movement from a child’s understanding of God into a more mature faith, those in youth ministry agree that Confirmation is not an ending, but rather a beginning. It’s not the pinnacle of a three-year exploration of faith to be checked off a list, but much more about equipping young people with the tools and community to continue exploring their relationship with God for the rest of their lives. So what does it look like to equip youth for a lifetime of faith?

WHAT DOES THIS MEAN?

INSPIRE

A young person who is well-equipped for a life of faith may have some basic knowledge about the Bible, an understanding of the Lutheran sacraments, but even more so, that young person will be surrounded with others to walk alongside and share in a life of faith. In one word: community.

“Someone who truly cares about them and their faith. Someone who will ask questions about the mundane and listen with no other agenda other than seeking out how they truly are doing. Someone who will pray with them, read scripture with them and teach them to seek Christ in all situations. The thing that best equips our middle school youth is not a ‘thing’ at all but a person,” says Thomas.

SPD’s Confirmation ministry is always looking for adults to come alongside our young people, as small group guides, to help serve the meal on Wednesday nights and to assist behind the scenes. For more information on how to get involved, contact Clay Thomas at cthomas@spdlc.org.

In 1517, Martin Luther changed the course of Western history when he nailed his 95 Theses to the door of All Saints’ Church in Wittenberg, Germany. But what does that mean for us as modern believers in the Lutheran tradition?

ONE We are saved by faith alone, not by any action on our part, but

by God’s grace.

T WO The Bible is the written witness of God’s work in the world, through the redeeming action of Jesus Christ. It was written by humans, inspired by the Holy Spirit.

THRE E We celebrate two sacraments, Baptism and Holy Communion, through which God is present with us.

FOU R Lutherans believe in vocation, which is the intersection of our faith with our lives—in our work, our relationships, our hobbies, our families and in all the other spheres in which we move and live and breathe. Our faith is not separate from these things, but an integral part of them.

If you didn’t grow up Lutheran, or did, but would like a refresher course on the basics of Lutheran faith and the catechism, SPD will be offering Adult Confirmation beginning in January. Contact Pastor Cheryl Mathison at cmathison@spdlc.org for more information.

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GOD' S WORK , OUR HANDS

Invitation to Service: A lta r G u i l d & U s h e r i n g

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St. Philip the Deacon

Jerry Herbolsheimer has been welcoming people into our worship space for many years at the 8:30 a.m.

Sunday service. “I love greeting people, and it’s fun to help visitors,” says Jerry.

“So when they were asking for helpers, I volunteered.”

Marcia and Steve Carnes also responded to a call for help on the usher team. “We’re always ready to help and serve wherever we can,” says Marcia. “It’s also fun to serve with grandchildren, to help them learn to feel a part of the church.” Steve adds, “Volunteering in any capacity is a way to make our church a great organization.”

Claudia and Dan Galloway began ushering as a family, once their children got a little older. “Greeting people as a family and teaching the kids to welcome new people is important. They get to see that this is part of how church works,” says Claudia. “It’s a special gift to look people in the eye and tell them they belong here.

It’s a blessing, a holy thing to share.” Dan agrees. “I feel like I’m doing my part to support worship and making people feel welcome. I get a lot out of that.”

While ushers are the more visible partners in making worship a welcoming place, members of the Altar Guild are busy behind the scenes to help the worship service f low seamlessly.

Mary Anne Lange grew up watching her mother serve on the Altar Guild in

their local parish, so she is no stranger to the variety of tasks that go along with preparing for weekly worship services.

Faithful service has been a bedrock of her faith life.

When she joined St. Philip the Deacon, she made new friends, several of whom served on the Altar Guild. One weekend they invited her to an “hors d'oeuvres party.” Without knowing it, she had accepted an invitation to the Altar Guild’s annual gathering to prepare the ashes for Ash Wednesday. “And just like that, I was a part of the group!”

Mary Anne is now a leader of the guild.

She coordinates schedules and important tasks that follow the church year, like ordering communion wine and candles, arranging f lowers, and care for the linens and paraments used in worship. “We also set up for communion, and all the things that are needed for a baptism. It keeps us pretty busy.”

Beth Schoen also followed in the footsteps of her mother, who actively served on the Altar Guild of Beth’s childhood church.

As an adult, when Beth first joined St. Philip the Deacon, she felt called to inquire whether there might be a place for her altar guild skills. Within 15 minutes of mentioning it to Pastor Strand Patterson, someone approached her to invite her to join!

“I especially enjoy the fellowship of my friends on Altar Guild,” says Beth. “And

it’s a piece of service that anyone can do, with f lexible scheduling that works for you. Many tasks can be done outside of worship hours.”

Beth involves her family, too. Twice a year, when Easter and Christmas f lowers are arranged into gardens in the sanctuary, the family works together to unwrap and move plants into the chancel before other members of the guild come to create the special arrangements.

Joann Nelson was invited to join Altar Guild nearly 10 years ago by Cindy Carlson.

“I was pleased to be asked,” says Joann. “It’s something I can do to share my love of the liturgy. It means a lot to me to help prepare for the sacrament and participate in setting the table before Holy Communion.”

“I am always inviting new people to join,” says Mary Anne. “You get a deeper understanding of what goes into worship here. I get so much more out of worship when I contribute in this way. And I’ve made some wonderful, faithful friends.”

Those who serve as ushers and on the Altar Guild invite you to join them!

Through this ministry, they find joy and purpose in supporting worship at St. Philip the Deacon and know that you will, too.

If you would like to become an usher or join the Altar Guild, contact Cindy Carlson at ccarlson@spdlc.org.

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Photo by Nikole Lim

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St. Philip the Deacon

REFLECTIONS OF A CONTEMPLATIVE IN ACTION AN INTERVIEW WITH CHRIS HEUERTZ

BY TIM WESTERMEYER

Chris Heuertz describes himself as a contemplative activist, ecclesial provocateur, curator of unlikely friendships, instigator for good, witness to hope, and clergy for common people. Named one of Outreach magazine’s “30 Emerging Inf luencers Reshaping Leadership,” Heuertz is a founding partner of Gravity Center for Contemplative Activism in Omaha, Nebraska. Having lived, worked and traveled in over 70 countries and studied with Mother Teresa, Heuertz believes deeply in the intersection of our spiritual lives and social activism.

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incredibly diverse in every way. I actually think that makes us all better and stronger.

As a “witness to hope,” I believe that hope is really all we have. I think there’s so much in our world that’s teed up against the notion of hope, and I think if we let go of that, then there’s not much left for us in which to put our faith.

The view from a balcony in Kathmandu, Nepal.

Credit: Phileena Heuertz

TW: You describe yourself as a “contemplative activist.” Can you unpack that term for us?

How do you think about that work or calling?

Why is it important in our world today?

CH: Over the years, contemplative activism is how I’ve held my humanitarian work in tension with my spiritual life. I believe that if you are in a worshipping community, it inevitably has to lead or evolve into a serving community. Similarly, if you are in a serving community, it has to find support by grounding itself as a worshipping community. This belief creates a real cohesiveness between contemplation and activism, an urgent correction many of us need in 2019. Which is why I think we are in the midst of a renewal within the historic Christian contemplative tradition, returning to practices marked by solitude, silence and stillness, because these are the correctives to what’s out of control in most of our lives and many of our communities.

Simultaneously, I do think activism is a hallmark of [this generation]. We’re branded by that on our social media accounts and we align with the causes that we think are most important. But untethered activism isn’t necessarily or automatically a good thing. History is not going to absolve us for the unintended harmful consequences

of our best efforts and best intentions in the world. Rooting our activism in deep spirituality creates accountability for that.

Ignatius of Loyola talked about being a contemplative in action, and while the term isn’t biblical, it seems inspired by the life of Jesus. Was this the inspiration for the path that you are on?

Honestly, I think our framework for contemplative activism is how Phileena and I have held our marriage together over the years. Phileena spends 2-3 hours a day in contemplative practice, and for 20 years, I was a pissed-off activist in the slums and red-light areas, on the streets and in the sewers of some of the biggest and most under-resourced cities. And for Phileena and I to stay committed to each other, we had to find common footing around in both contemplative spirituality and activism.

You also use the terms “curator of friendships” and “witness to hope”—which are beautiful.

Tell us more about each of those.

“Curator of friendships” has been a hallmark of my community experiences over the years. Because if there’s not room for any one of us, there’s no room for any of the rest of us. And so my community—my personal, professional, spiritual community—is

You studied with Mother Teresa in India for a time. How do you reflect on that experience?

What did you learn from her?

I was young, in my early 20s, and I don’t think I realized the scope or the influence that she had on the international scale. In fact, every time I sat with her, which was probably a dozen or so times, she’d give me a little prayer card, she’d sign a little note for me, she’d give me a Mary medal or a crucifix. And I hate to say this, but I’ve actually lost track of most of those things.

The impact she made on me was the kind of impact that all of our best mentors and guides have on us. It’s not the words that she shared in our little conversations, but it was watching the aligning of her values, her convictions and her spirituality with how she lived and how she loved and how she served. Our mentors can only take us as far as they’ve gone themselves. And I think that was always true with Mother. She never said anything that her life didn’t back up.

You have traveled to more than 70 countries working with the world’s poor. What has encountering these most vulnerable of God’s children taught you?

It is true that Phileena and I have worked and traveled in more than 70 countries. I think that what was most disruptive—in a good way—was in how we perceived God at work in the world. We truly do live in a world that has legitimate reasons to question the possibility of a good God. We see a lot of our friends in red-light areas and refugee camps and detention centers on the border right now, and they are praying prayers that go unanswered. I don’t think this is because God doesn’t hear the prayers, or that God doesn’t want those prayers answered.

Rather, I think it’s because we are unwilling to see that we are a necessary part of how those prayers are answered.

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St. Philip the Deacon

Secondly, I’ll say this: early on in my vocation I had a conversion regarding my understanding of the so-called donor and receptor roles. I quickly learned that it was my friends that were poor who were converting me into their reality. Together, we were being reconverted to God. And so that’s why I say I follow my friends who are poor to God’s heart.

Another part of your work is as an Enneagram coach. How would you describe the Enneagram to someone who isn’t familiar with it, and what it can teach an individual about their life and faith?

The Enneagram is a compassionate tool to help expose the ego’s set of coping addictions that we’ve wrapped up around our childhood wound so that we don’t have to tell ourselves the truth about who we really are. We would rather project our ego mythology and try to convince ourselves this mythology is true than really excavate the essence of our most authentic selves. It helps us make peace with every aspect of ourselves, especially the parts of ourselves that we’ve parked in our shadow; the parts of ourselves that we don’t want to face or contend with. But like my teacher Father Richard Rohr says, “Everything belongs.”

And this is what the Enneagram allows for—the facilitation of integrating of all of these fragments, which attempt to lay claim to who we are.

Richard Rohr wrote the foreword to your book The Sacred Enneagram: Finding Your Unique Path to Spiritual Growth. I presume you’re a fan of his work. For people who aren’t familiar with him, why is his thinking so important to you? What would you suggest people read by him if they’d like to get introduced to his work?

Father Richard has been a guide, a friend and a teacher for several years. If you are unfamiliar with Father Richard, he’s a Franciscan friar who lives in Albuquerque, New Mexico, who started the Center for Action and Contemplation, and a lot of the work that we’re doing at Gravity is trying to live into the gift of his mentoring and friendship. My wife, Phileena, is on his board of directors. He was one of our

original Gravity board members and still serves on that board. I’m indebted to him when, at some of the lowest points of my life, he was there for me as a mentor. He was there for me pastorally, and he’s been a champion and a friend that’s continued to take risks for us and invest in the work that we’re doing. He’s written and published some of our time’s most profound and honest spiritual volumes. I encourage people to get to know his work.

The theme of this fall issue is “Invitation.” How would you reflect on that word as it relates to the life of faith or the kind of work you do?

This notion of “invitation” is what contemplative practice offers us. It’s an invitation to receptivity, it’s an invitation to laying down the words that maybe convolute, pollute or distract us from resting in the presence of divine love. And if that’s what we understand, at its root, contemplative practice to help facilitate and nurture in us, then we are reminded that we don’t have to work as hard as we have to connect to what’s already waiting for us.

We don’t have to earn what’s been gifted

Heuertz with a little girl in Chennai, India.

Credit: Phileena Heuertz

to us, and we don’t have to strive to attain something that already resides within us.

You’ll be joining us in early October to kick off this season’s Faith & Life Series. If people come to hear you, what can they expect?

I hope we can begin some conversations about integrating the fruits of our contemplative practice with our desire to help heal the world. In 2019, so many of us are yearning for a new “we” and I believe that our practices marked by solitude, silence and stillness will help midwife that new “we.” It’s a process that both asks us to get out of the way, and in another sense asks that we show up and make ourselves available to help answer the unanswered prayers in our neighborhoods, communities and zip codes where people are suffering in unnecessary ways. Together, I pray that we find ways forward when we say “yes” to ending this suffering.

Heuertz will speak at the Faith & Life Lecture Series on October 10 at 7:00 p.m. For more information about Gravity and their ministry, visit gravitycenter.com.

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A M A N D A

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hen we engage deeply with something that we love, we move from being spectators to active participants in an experience. It is the difference between watching the Twins on television and coaching your child’s tee ball team or between wanting a safer neighborhood and actively working with neighbors and your city to find ways to implement change.

As Christians, we are meant to continue to grow in our faith forever. As we have not yet arrived in heaven, there continues to be opportunity for digging deeper into what it means to be a follower of Jesus and to come to know ourselves in even more profound ways as children of God. Though we often have the best intentions, it can be hard to make time to enter more fully into the life of the church. Or maybe, we don’t know how to get started. Being engaged means allowing ourselves to be known in our faith community and to know others in return. We move beyond our habitual place in the pew to actually meeting other people, trying out a new group or service opportunity, or finding ways to share our God-given gifts with the world.

INVESTMENT

Monetary giving is always important in the ministry of the church, but investment goes well beyond money. Investment of your time and talents is critical to many of the ministries that the church does every day.

As a large faith community, SPD relies on volunteers to lead Faith Creek classes, confirmation small groups and help to serve the community around us. Often people are afraid to volunteer their time, citing that they don’t know enough about Christianity or the Bible. But, you don’t have to know, to do. Over the years, many adult leaders in our confirmation ministry have expressed how much they learn while teaching middle schoolers. We provide support so that you can lead and grow, at the same time providing critical relational touchstones for our children and youth.

B E R G E R

Investment may also mean being deeply present through service ministry. Getting involved in ministries like serving at the Messiah Food Shelf or volunteering weekly at IOCP shows our community at large that we care deeply about those for whom even the most basic need of food is a challenge. It may be inventorying black shoes for Haiti or participating in the Christmas ministries. In Jesus’ words, “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me” (Matthew 25:40). And while giving funds to all of these service ministries is important, there is a completely different sense of investment that happens when you become involved in person, meeting others who serve in the ministry and connecting with those who receive the gifts of our community.

V O C AT I O N

Frederick Buechner wrote, “The place God calls you to is the place where your deep gladness and the world’s deep hunger meet.”

Nothing exemplifies the idea of vocation better. Have you looked at the work that you do, day in and day out, through the lens of vocation? Is how you spend the majority of your time done with love of God and love of neighbor in mind? If not in your work, are there other ways that you are able to live out your faith in love and service to those you encounter each day? At St. Philip the Deacon, we believe wholeheartedly in vocation and that we live out our faith in our daily lives this way. Trying out a variety of classes, Bible studies, retreats and learning opportunities at SPD may help you to discover new ways to bringing your faith to life every day.

Each opportunity that we pursue to know more about ourselves and about God can open new pathways to our role in helping bring God’s kingdom to earth.

ENRICHMENT

When we engage deeply on the head and heart level, that is enrichment. This includes participating in Bible study or Chair Yoga, activities that move us to explore our faith through learning and spiritual practice. We offer many of these opportunities at SPD, from retreats to Bible Art Journaling, to Fireside Faith, to

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St. Philip the Deacon

A LIFE OF E NGAG E M E NT Chris Anderson has been a member at St. Philip the Deacon since his childhood—he remembers when the days of worshipping at Oakwood Elementary and of going to Sunday school and confirmation once SPD built their own building. Even when Anderson moved out of state for a few years, St. Philip was still his “home” and he looked forward to returning over holidays, to worship alongside his parents, who also still attend SPD. “I started teaching Sunday school while I lived in St. Louis. When I returned to the Twin Cities in 1988, I continued to teach Sunday school,” said Anderson. “I have taught 3rd and 4th grade students at the 9:45 a.m. Sunday service for the past 31 years. I have helped teach middle school students on Wednesday evenings. I find that I get more enjoyment, fellowship and enrichment from the kids than one can imagine. Teaching kids Sunday school has been one of the best things that I have done in my life. The kids never cease to amaze me with their knowledge and love of God.” Anderson’s passion for serving our faith community was contagious for his family, and both of his daughters also taught Faith Creek and in confirmation.

Together, the family has served as ushers and readers during worship.

the healing prayer group. It may also be to the glory of God and enrichment of our communal experiences, such as singing in the Sanctuary Choir. These experiences allow us to meet and know others who share similar interests and also encourage us to spend time with God in personal ways.

The ministry of the church is not work meant to be done by just a few for the many. God’s work is the engagement of all of us for ministry to the whole world. Every person has a role and we aren’t SPD without you. Your gifts make a difference here, now.

So try different things. Experiment! Meet lots of people. Find what you are passionate about and feed that passion here at SPD.

“Church is way more than attending [worship] services. It’s the center of your Christian life. I have lots of friends at St. Philip that help you get through the tough times in life. Our family has the greatest respect for the entire staff at St. Philip the Deacon. Mom and Dad love it when Valerie and Cheryl come to visit them. I am now 10 years past cancer. None of us knows what tomorrow will bring. It’s a great comfort to our family to know that our friends at St. Philip will always be there whatever tomorrow brings.”

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" Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it.â&#x20AC;?

HEBREWS 13:2

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St. Philip the Deacon

C’MON IN TO MY HOUSE

A U T U M N TA B L E P R AY E R

We bless you, • God of Seed and Harvest • And we bless each other • That the beauty of this world • And the love that created it • Might be expressed through our lives • And be a blessing to others • Now and always, amen.

JOHN BIRCH

RECIPES & PHOTOGRAPHY

BY AMANDA BERGER

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Asking people into your home is an act of courage, calling us to be vulnerable in a way that allows others to feel comfortable and welcomed.

May you feel inspired to invite a new neighbor, acquaintance or friend into a deeper relationship with these easy-to-prep recipes.

CHOOSING CHEESES Stock the refrigerator with a selection of cheeses to throw together an impromptu cheese platter when entertaining. Use the tips below to make the most of your local grocer’s cheese selection. It can also be fun to choose a theme for your cheese board, for example, exploring local cheeses or all cheeses from a particular country or animal.

HOW MUCH DO I NEED? If cheese is the big deal, 3 pounds is a good amount for serving about eight people.

If you are serving other items, 3-4 oz. per person is enough.

W H AT S H O U L D I C H O O S E ?

When choosing cheeses, you’ll want to include a variety of flavors and textures.

Consider including aged cheeses like Comte

or Gouda, a soft cheese such as camembert or goat cheese, a hard cheese like Manchego or Parmigiano, and a blue cheese or Stilton.

It’s also a good idea to choose something familiar for those guests with a less adventurous palate, like artisan cheddar.

W H AT D O I S E R V E W I T H I T ?

You’ll want to have a selection of crackers of various flavors and textures, along with some sliced baguette. You may also want to include some other flavors like grapes or apples, dried figs or apricots, almonds, olives and meats like salami or prosciutto.

HOW TO SERVE IT? It’s fun to use a giant platter and create a beautiful arrangement of the cheeses, surrounded by the accompaniments.

However, there are a few things to consider.

Make sure each cheese has its own knife or spreader. Remove the cheese from the refrigerator about an hour before serving for best flavor, this also allows them to soften a little for easier slicing or spreading. Got a strong-smelling cheese? It’s best to put it on a plate of its own, so as not to alter the flavor of your other offerings. Label your cheese so that guests know what they are trying.

BUYING TIP Many cheese markets, like those at Surdyk’s or Lunds, offer “cheese ends” which are small, inexpensive bits of cheese (left after dividing a block or wheel) that are perfect for sampling. Do a little taste testing ahead of time and have fun exploring different varieties from around the world.

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St. Philip the Deacon

APPLE CRISP

AMANDA’S BIG BUDDHA SALAD

BACON WR APPED BRUSSELS SPROUTS

Always a fall favorite, it’s the perfect excuse for a trip to the apple orchard. Quick to prepare, consider hosting a spur-of-themoment gathering with neighbors to celebrate all the gifts of the harvest season.

Serves: 8

This is modeled after one of my favorites, the Big Buddha Salad at Peoples Organic restaurant. This is my home version— full of fresh, delicious ingredients that I always have on hand. It’s a go-to when I have friends over to lunch. Serves: 4

Every time I make these for a party, they disappear in minutes. Even those who aren’t Brussels sprouts lovers are persuaded to try them (and are never disappointed!) by the smoky bacon and sweet maple syrup combination.

3/4 cup sugar 3 tbsp cornstarch 4 cups apples, peeled and sliced thin 2 cups quick-cooking or old-fashioned oats 1 cup packed brown sugar 1 cup butter, melted 2/3 cup all-purpose f lour 3 tsp ground cinnamon, divided Vanilla Greek yogurt, ice cream or whipped cream (for topping, optional)

4 cups baby spinach 2 cups cooked brown rice, still warm 4 hard-boiled egg, sliced or diced 2 ripe avocadoes, sliced 1 cup hummus 1/2 cup finely sliced roasted red peppers 1 sliced cucumber 1 cup Kalamata olives 8 tbsp pepitas 8 tbsp lemon herb dressing* Sea salt & fresh ground black pepper

15-20 Brussels sprouts 1 lb bacon 3-4 tbsp maple syrup Fresh ground black pepper Toothpicks, soaked in water for about 10 minutes before making

In a large bowl, combine sugar, 1 tsp cinnamon and cornstarch. Add apples; toss to coat. Spoon into an 8-in. square baking dish.

In a small bowl, combine the oats, brown sugar, f lour and cinnamon. Cut in the butter with a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Sprinkle over fruit. Bake at 350 degrees for 45 minutes or until bubbly and fruit is tender. Serve warm with ice cream if desired.

Place 1 cup of spinach on each plate. Add ½ cup warm brown rice on top. Drizzle with lemon herb dressing. Top each with 1 sliced egg, 1/2 an avocado, 2 tablespoons pepitas and 1/4 cup olives. Divide the sliced cucumbers along the edge of the plate. Place hummus on the side (about ¼ cup). Season with sea salt and ground pepper to taste. *The Salad Girl brand, found in the produce department of local grocery stores, is my favorite.

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Cut each slice of bacon in half. Wash and trim Brussels sprouts. Wrap each Brussels sprout in a half slice of bacon and secure with a toothpick. Place on the lined baking sheet. Repeat with all ingredients.

Sprinkle with pepper.

Bake for 30 minutes or until bacon is crispy and Brussels sprouts are tender.

Remove from oven and drizzle with maple syrup. Allow to cool for about 10 minutes before serving (centers are extremely hot!).

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St. Philip the Deacon

SETTING HIS SIGHTS HIGH

BY AMANDA BERGER

K

athmandu, Nepal, like many third world cities, is dirty and crowded, but also bursting with exotic colors and scents. It is also the gateway for those climbing the world’s highest peak: Mt. Everest. Even hiking to Everest Base Camp, situated at 17,600 feet above sea level, is not for the faint of heart.

train for high-altitude hiking. Unfortunately, we don’t have any mountains in Minnesota. So I improvised. ... I would take breaks from work and climb the steps in my office tower from the ground f loor to the roof (33 f loors). I would do this six times during the day for a total of about 200 f lights of stairs.”

After battling cancer in 2016, Ron Schutz, SPD member and experienced runner, was weak and could barely run 100 yards.

He trained vigorously and eventually regained his stamina, running the Boston Marathon as a member of the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society team only 10 months after chemotherapy. After accomplishing this feat, Schutz moved his desire to hike to Everest Base Camp to the top of his to-do list.

Once on the trip, with 12 other men and women fundraising for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, Schutz’s training kept him at the front of the group. “It’s like running a half marathon every day for 11 days. It’s the hardest thing I’ve ever done over that extended period of time. I’ve certainly had more difficult days, but not day after day like that.”

This avid adventure sport participant and triathlete credits his disciplined training for being able to complete the 80-mile, 11-day trek. “My physical training became very specific,” said Schutz. “I needed to

The photos hardly do the journey justice.

After a rough start to the trek (bad weather canceled their f light to Lukla, the hike’s starting point), the group chartered helicopters to take them to Phakding, keeping them on schedule, so that they would have days built in to acclimatize. Adjusting to

the high altitude is very difficult for those hiking to Everest Base Camp and many are forced to quit and turn back. The terrain of the trails is difficult and rocky, challenging stamina and balance.

The scenery was breathtaking; and the journey, complete with Sherpas as guides and yaks carrying supplies, looks like something out of a movie. After reaching Everest Base Camp, where the group stayed nearby only one night, they turned back and descended to Lukla in four days.

Schutz was adamant that even after being at Base Camp, he had no desire to continue to the summit. Although the summit is only 12.5 miles from base camp, summiting to 29,000 feet requires 40 more days on the mountain and, in Schutz’s mind, is too dangerous and not worth the risk of life.

“This was a spectacular trip. I like to do hard things. It was challenging physically, mentally. Hard to train for, hard to do but you get to talk about it for the rest of your life,” said Schutz.

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B Y I N V I TAT I O N

BY K AT E S T E R N E R

A recent start-up church in the Twin Cities grew from 0 to almost 300 people in five years through invitation. An overwhelming 98.5 percent of the people who joined came because someone they knew invited them.

The pastor of that church felt strongly that their faith community grew so vibrantly, not because the members were focused on church growth and numbers, but because they wanted to help change people’s lives. They felt themselves to be ambassadors of the Gospel, and they wanted to share their faith and the foundation it gave them with others.

Sarah and Kurt Johansen received just such an invitation to St. Philip the Deacon from their good friends and neighbors Megan and Scott Buck. “We were attending another ELCA church in the area,” says Sarah, “but after a number of years, we still did not feel connected and grounded in that community. With thoughts of our children’s faith journey and Kurt’s and my need to feel more connected, we accepted the invitation and our entire family was glad that we did!”

Their children (Emma, 13, Annika, 11 and Quinn, 8) have attended Faith Creek and confirmation, Camp Wapo, Soul Sisterhood events and VBS—as both attendees and teen helpers. The entire family has volunteered with Families Moving Forward and helped with the holiday store and gifts. Sarah is a member of the Joy Circle and they were active participants in the Restore series last winter.

St. Philip the Deacon has been the “perfect fit” for the Johansen family.

Sometimes invitation comes from a deep longing within. In Judi Blomberg’s case, it was the call of God through a remembrance of tradition, roots and family. Though raised Lutheran, Judi had for several years pitched her tent at an Episcopal church in Minneapolis. But family ties and a yearning to revisit the Lutheran traditions of her youth led her to visit St. Philip the Deacon.

She first participated in the Caregiver’s Support Group and then found herself called back to Lutheran worship. Now Judi is an active member at SPD. She has attended the Daniel Plan

and Restore series, gone on weekend retreats and Encounter field trips, and enjoyed spiritual and creative pursuits like Bible Art Journaling and Spirit Bead workshops. She also takes advantage of the community events that SPD hosts as well. “I have really enjoyed attending some of the concerts we have hosted here at church.”

Because personal invitation is such a central means of sharing the Gospel, we encourage all members to open their hearts to others and offer an invitation to those who may yearn for a deeper connection to God. Authentic invitation lives out our core value of hospitality and helps us to make good on the words said each week in worship: “We’ve been expecting you.”

THE POWER OF WORD OF MOUTH

Overwhelmingly, word of mouth is the most powerful form of marketing that any business or organization possesses. Even with the proliferation of digital marketing and social media, a personal recommendation has far more power to influence the people than any other medium.

According to a recent Forbes article, this is due in large part to the perception that someone who takes the time to tell you personally about an experience, a product or an organization is telling the truth. Likely this recommendation is also coming from a friend or acquaintance,

someone that you trust and may even know shares similar interests and preferences to you.

What is good in your world? Have you been sharing that with those you know? At St. Philip the Deacon we believe that we have a faithful, connected and caring community—something that many people long for in this chaotic and anxious world. And the best part is that there is plenty to go around! Every time we add to our community, we extend God’s abundance and grace and create even more opportunities for God to be made known in our city and our world.

INSPIRE

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St. Philip the Deacon

OUT & ABOUT

B.

A.

D.

C.

A. Week twoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s senior high

campers, including counselors Anna Ingemann and Britney Schulz.

B. Maggie Gibbs shows off her

beautiful and encouraging tree slab sign.

C. Lily Kriegelski, Anne Oddan, Lydia Blomberg and Chelsea Klaphake D. Jana Blomberg leads a trust

walk around South Fork Farm.

E. Both groups experienced

yoga as an expression of worship and devotion to God. F. Week oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s middle school group of campers.

Soul Sisterhood celebrated its ninth year of summer camps.

Hosting both middle school and senior high weeks at South Fork Farm in Lester Prairie, Minnesota, Soul Sisterhood engages girls in their faith through art and creativity.

F.

E.

! u o Y k n Tha 34

A S W E C E L E B R AT E A

BE AUTIFUL FIRST Y E A R OF INS P IR E M AGA Z IN E , W E ’ D LOV E TO S H A R E SO M E O F THE WORDS OF THANKS WE’VE HEARD FROM OUR COMMUNIT Y IN RESPONSE.

“Just wanted to write a quick note to say how much I enjoy the Inspire magazine.

The quality of the content is great … interesting with just the right amount of meat. It’s very informative and gives direction if one is interested in pursuing more depth on the topics. I think it’s very cool that SPD [is] putting out such a quality piece. Thanks for always striving to take St. Philip to the next level.”

— CHRIS ROTSCH

“I am ever so grateful to all at St. Philip the Deacon for the warm welcome and support that has been extended to all that have come here to address their cunning, baff ling, powerful, and patient disease known as alcoholism and addiction. We are all the better for it.

Your article did a masterful job of telling this story, and I feel richly blessed that you are at our church to get these messages out—as well as the other articles that also have such inspiring messages. The name of the publication, Inspire, is certainly most appropriate.

With thanks, gratitude and appreciation, may God richly bless you and your team for the great work that you all do.”

—MIKE CONLEY (referring to an article in our Spring 2019 issue)

“Our inaugural copy of Inspire arrived a few days ago, and I am thrilled to say that it exceeds my wildest expectations. It’s a beautiful publication, starting with the quality of the paper and the elegant cover that invites the reader inside.

Everything about the magazine—photos, graphics, design—is visually appealing, complementing the articles, which cover a wide variety of subjects, all substantive, thoughtful, and very well written. ... Many thanks to all who have played a role in developing this publication; it’s a lovely and meaningful ref lection of our church, and I look forward to sharing it with others.”

—BETH WILLIS

“Have you ever experienced getting something you had no idea you needed until you had it: like having an itch you hadn’t felt until it was scratched or food when you hadn’t realized you were hungry?

The comfort you feel afterwards is unrivaled. I had that very experience when I received your new magazine, Inspire. ... I can’t say thank you enough for what you provided for me in that publication. ...

Thank you again.”

—CHARLIE THOMAS

INSPIRE

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St. Philip the Deacon

S U N D AY OCTOBER

6 BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS

FA L L CALENDAR

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 would be a little stressed.

S U N D AY OCTOBER

27 PIGS & PIGSKIN S U N D AY, S E P T E M B E R 2 9

FA L L F E S T I V A L

Time to fire up the smoker! Guys of all ages, please join us for the annual Pigs and Pigskin event at St. Philip the Deacon. Come join us for dinner, fellowship and the Vikings vs Bears game on the big screen.

Registration online at spdlc.org/register.

Our family Fall Festival includes a Trunk or Treat 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 online at spdlc.org/register.

FA M I L I E S M O V I N G F O R W A R D OC TOBER 2 9 – NOV EMBER 3

SPD hosts families in the Families Moving Forward program, offering families experiencing homelessness hospitality, emergency shelter and a path to home with support for stability. There are a variety of opportunities to support this ministry. Connect with Pastor Strand Patterson at vstrand@spdlc.org to volunteer.

F R I D AY NOVEMBER

1

LUNCH & LEARN T H U R S D AY, N O V E M B E R 7

ENCOUNTER: ALL SAINTS

Dr. Kirstin Bransford will present: Enhance Your Wellbeing: Using Your Strengths & Positive Activities.

Participants will learn about using the character strengths and positive activities to enhance their sense of well-being. Cost is $5 and includes a light lunch and presentation. Contact Susan Path at spath@spdlc.org for more information.

REMEMBR ANCE

In honor of All Saints Day, we will have a service of remembrance and thanksgiving in the historic chapel at Lakewood Cemetery. Following the service, we will have a brief tour of the cemetery and lunch at the French Meadow Café. Registration online at spdlc.org/register.

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FA M I L I A R FA C E S CHERYL SJA ARDA

1.

Describe when you knew you’d be going into ministry.

I attended a Lutheran school growing up and being involved in church ministry was always a big part of my life. When I was asked to consider the position of Finance Administrator 10 years ago, I was excited because it felt like a perfect fit for my organizational skills and my personal love for stewardship.

2.

What’s one thing that people would be surprised to know about you? There is a creative side to me. Hairstyling was my first career. I get my creative fix by quilting, gardening, and, most recently, learning how to watercolor paint.

Cheryl Sjaarda, Finance Administrator, is one of the many “behind-the-scenes” people who make ministry at St. Philip the Deacon possible.

Finances can be hard to talk about at church, but Cheryl’s generous spirit and attention to detail make everyone’s contributions feel important and she sees clearly the ways that “your gifts make a difference” on a daily basis.

3.

What are three things on your lifetime to-do list? Finish a hand-pieced Grandmother’s Garden Path Quilt that I started too many years ago to mention! Explore National Parks. This year my husband and I are headed to Acadia National Park in Maine.

Move to a smaller home with an awesome kitchen for baking and a big yard for gardening.

4.

How do you take care of yourself—spiritually, emotionally and physically—so that you stay healthy in ministry? I think of walking and gardening as my meeting places with God. It’s how I meditate, relax and workout. I walk early in the morning for a perfect start to my day and I love the sense of exhaustion and accomplishment I feel when I’m working in my gardens.

5.

What are you passionate about right now? Attention to detail is always on my mind. St. Philip the Deacon has over a $3 million budget and that requires staying focused on the processes needed to manage contributions, payroll, accounts payable and financial reports. It is an absolute joy to witness the generosity and ministry that happens in this place.

Public Conversations Where Faith Comes to Life

JOIN US FOR A SERIES O F TA L K S A B O U T B E I N G AND BELIEF

The Faith & Life Lectures are open and welcoming public forums where members of the Twin Cities community can hear nationally known speakers ref lect on how Christian faith intersects with different dimensions of everyday life. We invite you to join us for the 2019-2020 series of lectures.

CHRIS HEUERTZ

October 10, 2019 COLLEEN CARROLL CAMPBELL

November 21, 2019 J E N N I F E R P H A R R D AV I S

February 6, 2020 TOD WORNER

March 5, 2020 R YA N S A U N D E R S

May 14, 2020 All lectures begin at 7:00 p.m.

Free and open to the public. www.faith-and-life.org

17205 County Road 6 Plymouth, MN 55447

â&#x20AC;&#x153;People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.â&#x20AC;?

M AYA A N G E L O U

V I S I T U S O N L I N E AT S P D L C .O R G