Inspire: Mercy

INSPIRE

M E RCY

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

Fighting Fair • Tsh Oxenreider: At Home in the World • Souper Suppers • Lectio for Lent • Who is My Neighbor? spring <¤+…

i

IN EVERY ISSUE

3 Editorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Letter

4 Scripture Connection

5 Read, Watch, Listen

6 Ref lections on Faith

31 Out & About

32 Modern Day Pilgrims

EVENING PRAYER SERVICE M O N D AY S @ 7 : 0 0 P M

Join us for this reflective prayer service led by Michael Morris and featuring guitar, cello and violin accompaniment. Tea is always served.

34 Giving Thanks

35 Calendar of Events

36 Familiar Faces

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St. Philip the Deacon

INSPIRE

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

RECOGNITION

R E C O N C I L I AT I O N

REDEMP TION

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10

22

Devoted Living: Acts of Service

Reconciliation and Healing: Cross and Spirit

At Home in the World: An Interview with Tsh Oxenreider

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26

One Day at a Time

No Place to Call Home

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28

Decisions of a Lifetime

Souper Suppers

12 What is Lent?

13 Fighting Fair: How to Disagree

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INSPIRE

Volume 1, Issue 3, Spring 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

Public conversations where faith comes to life.

Join us for a series of talks about being 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 series of lectures.

TSH OXENREIDER

March 21, 2019 TOM LEHMAN

TBD May/June 2019 All lectures begin at 7:00 p.m.

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

Cheryl Mathison, Kate Sterner contributions

Cindy Carlson, Eddie Ulrich website

www.spdlc.org/inspire email editorial

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

Photo by Mathieu Perrier Š2018 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 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.

INSPIRE

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St. Philip the Deacon

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

“ Y O U

A R E

D U S T

A N D

T O

D U S T

Y O U

S H A L L

R E T U R N . ”

My mother died from cancer at the age of 50. I was recently out of graduate school and beginning my “adult” life, and I knew that 50 was young. It was only once I reached my mid-30’s that I realized HOW young that was. I sometimes find myself counting the years, thinking of all that I still want to fit into this “wild and precious life” before I die. “ Y O U

A R E

D U S T

A N D

T O

D U S T

Y O U

S H A L L

R E T U R N . ”

She was just 4 months old, cradled in my arms, close to my heart as we went forward for the imposition of the ashes. As I met Pastor Valerie’s eyes over the top of Charlotte’s head, I felt such a pure and overwhelming sense of the frailty of my small, new child. I saw Valerie feel it, too. As she placed the dark, ash-formed cross on my daughter’s forehead, I wept for Charlotte’s very human-ness. “ Y O U

A R E

D U S T

A N D

T O

D U S T

Y O U

S H A L L

R E T U R N . ”

This past fall, a friend died from the complications of a heart attack. We weren’t super close, but something about her death shook me to the core, frequently bringing me to tears in the weeks that followed.

The season of Lent always brings with it reminders of our brokenness. It is also a season that reminds us of God’s power. It is a season of ref lection and repentance, certainly, but also hope. Hope that we are forgiven. Hope that this imperfect earthly world is not all that there is. Hope that darkness does not get the last word.

My prayer for you is that in this, our Mercy issue, you will read stories of human frailty and divine strength, real stories of mercy and redemption. May you be inspired to see the ways in which you, through acts of mercy, can be a part of making earth a little bit more like heaven. Let light and love and mercy prevail.

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 welcome—whether you finished the book or not!

MARCH 19

At Home in the World by Tsh Oxenreider. Discussion led by Amanda Berger.

LECTIO FOR LENT Sometimes we read Scripture more for information than for formation. We bring our own agenda to our reading and therefore miss the opportunity for God’s word to be at work in us, to form and shape us into the people God made us to be.

During the 40 days of Lent, you are encouraged to focus on the Gospel readings in preparation for each Sunday’s worship. Lectio Divina (pronounced: lex-ee-o di-veen-a) is an ancient practice of reading and praying through Scripture.

What follows is a modified version of Lectio, designed for use by an individual to engage with the Gospel reading for an entire week.

Begin every session with a prayer like this: Lord God, quiet and still my heart and mind that I might know your presence.

Send your Holy Spirit to aid my listening granting these gifts: trust, humility, reverence, openness, faith and patience. Amen.

to: Who, What, When, Where and all the senses (touch, smell, taste, sound, sight).

Imagine the scene unfolding before you.

Enter the scene as a participant. Who are you? What role are you playing?

D A Y F O U R Read the passage and then rewrite it in your own words. Add images and doodles if you like.

F I V E Read the passage and wonder: What are you telling me, God, about you, about this world, and about me?

D AY

S I X Ref lect on the passage throughout the day, engaging in conversation with God: What are you telling me?

What are you showing me? Optional: journal about your discoveries, about how you have been formed by your reading.

D AY

DAY SEVEN Observe the Sabbath.

Rest.

W E E K LY R E A D I N G S

D A Y O N E Read the passage out loud, APRIL 16

Life Together by Dietrich Bonhoeffer. Discussion led by Pastor Mark Schmid.

slowly, deliberately. Then sit in silence LISTENING. Resist the temptation to ask questions of the text; just listen.

D A Y T W O Read the passage three times, each one in a different translation.

You can easily find different versions on the internet; check out biblegateway.com. After each reading, sit in silence with the text.

DAY T H R E E Read the passage in the

translation you like best and pay attention

M AY 2 1

Wonder by R.J. Palacio.

Discussion led by Rachel Arends.

March 4 March 11 March 18 March 25 April 1 April 8

Luke 4:1-13 Luke 13:31-35 Luke 13:1-9 Luke 15:1-3;11b-32 John 12:1-8 Luke 19:28-40

For more information on Lectio Divina and formational reading of Scripture, check out these two very helpful books: Shaped by the Word by M. Robert Mulholland Jr. and The Transforming Power of Lectio Divina: How to Pray with Scripture by Maria Tasto.

“For God alone my soul waits in silence.”

PSALM 62:1

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St. Philip the Deacon

Read THE LITTLE FRENCH BISTRO

By Nina George—Marianne’s life is changed after a dramatic rescue in the Seine: her own.

Leaving her former life behind, she finds comfort in a new town on the Brittany coast and discovers what it is to be in

Faith & Life T S H OX E N R E I D E R — MARCH 21, 2019 7: 0 0 P M —

Tsh Oxenreider is passionate about creating space in life for the stuff that matters, to make globally-minded choices, and to live unconventionally— and then help others do the same. As an author, parent, and global citizen, she has traveled the world with her children and established "The Art of Simple," a blog and podcast for those who want to make room for the little things that matter.

Join us as Oxenreider explores "Faith & Travel: How Exploring Restores Your Soul & Bonds Your Family."

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

For more information visit faith-and-life.org

love with her own life. A cast of colorful characters, the unique setting and circumstances will engage all of your emotions and leave you feeling like you’ve just made a bunch of new friends.

Watch GOD FRIENDED ME CBS, Sunday Evenings—This feel-good show follows pastor’s kid and atheist Miles as he is “friended” by God on Facebook and finds himself bearing witness to and participating

in God’s everyday miracles.

The charming characters and informed faith conversations create a sense of hope in humanity and God’s presence in everyday life.

Listen T Y P O LOGY P O DCA S T Join author Ian Morgan Cron (former Faith & Life speaker) as he explores the human personality through the lens of the Enneagram, helping us to connect with our most authentic selves. Including

interviews with theologians, authors, scientists, psychologists, teachers, artists and business leaders, you’ll be captivated by seeing how others embrace this work of becoming their best selves.

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BY TIM WESTERME YER

A

peacock feather graces the cover of this issue of Inspire. We’ve all seen them, certainly, but I’m guessing that most of us aren’t aware of their significance as a Christian symbol.

to someone else. “So,” she wrote, “I’ll send you instead a genuine work of the Lord, a feather from the tail of one of my peacocks.” “I have a flock of about thirty,” she continued, “so I am surrounded.”

The peacock and its beautiful feathers have been a source of wonder and mystery for millennia. The bird is mentioned, for example, in 1 Kings as an indication of Solomon’s great wealth: “Once every three years the fleet of ships of Tarshish used to come bringing gold, silver, ivory, apes, and peacocks.”

O’Connor is best known for what, on the surface, appear to be difficult, dark and terrifying stories. But, as one reviewer notes, the world she depicts—which is “shaped by a thoroughly Christian vision”—“is also the place where grace makes itself known.” As a result, her stories, while accurately reflecting the broken and fallen world in which we live, “turn out to be a call to mercy.”

In Christian symbolism, the peacock also represents immortality and the miracle of the resurrection. An ancient belief that the peacock’s skin never decayed gave rise to the first belief. The annual molting of the peacock’s beautiful feathers reinforced the latter. These same feathers with their distinctive “eyes” also came to represent, for Christians, the all-seeing eye of God. For all of these reasons, peacocks often were included in ancient Christian churches, catacombs and tombs, and their bright and vivid colors continue to inspire today.

In the 20th century, one of my favorite authors—Flannery O’Connor—actually raised peacocks on her rural Georgia estate. In a famous essay called “The King of the Birds,” she opens by noting that she is frequently asked why she raises the strange birds. In response, she says, “I have no short or reasonable answer.”

But raise them she did. And in her expansive correspondence of letters, she often included a peacock feather as a gift to the recipient. To one friend, she had hoped to send along a book, but realized she had already lent it

Mercy, in fact, is such a pervasive theme for her that one biography about O’Connor—picking up a line from one of her own works—is titled The Terrible Speed of Mercy. On the cover of that book is, appropriately, a peacock feather.

In our worship recently, we used a version of the confession and forgiveness that read, in part: “We are saved, not by anything we have done, but by God’s mercy poured out on us richly.” You might say that—just as O’Connor was surrounded by her peacocks and their beautiful feathers—we are surrounded by God’s mercy. This Lent, may we have eyes to see and receive anew this beautiful and astonishing gift.

Grace and Mercy,

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M E D I TAT I O N

â&#x20AC;&#x153;We must find within ourselves the maturity to tolerate the duality of our nature, while allowing the possibility of victory over our darkness. Love is not a thought, it is an action. And each loving action that we take infuses us with more energy for loving action in the future.â&#x20AC;?

R O L F G AT E S

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DEVOTED LIVING WHO IS MY NEIGHBOR?

WORDS BY AMANDA BERGER

INSPIRE

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St. Philip the Deacon

S

erving those who have less has long been a Christian practice, from Jesus’ commands to care for the poor, the widows, the orphans to our more modern means of caring for those who are refugees from violence or oppression, victims of natural disasters, and those who are in need.

Historically the season of Lent has been a time of more focused service to the other, both as recognition of their great need and as a way of practicing self-denial for those who have much. Alongside the practices of fasting and prayer, acts of service help Christians to be outwardly focused in a world where the needs are so very great.

“The first question which the priest and the Levite asked was: ‘If I stop to help this man, what will happen to me?’

But the Good Samaritan reversed the question: ‘If I do not stop to help this man, what will happen to him?’”

MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR.

5 SMALL WAYS T O S E R V E YO U R N E I G H B O R D U R I N G L E N T

1.

Give up a small “treat” (like a fancy latte or buying a book) and instead donate the same amount to an organization in which you believe. During the eight weeks of Lent, you can see how these small sacrifices on your part can benefit those in need.

2.

Practice being present and seeing those who may be struggling. Watch for those in line at the grocery store, on the street near your work, or in your child’s school classroom for whom a small kindness may be a huge thing.

3.

Serve through your gift of time. Do you have an hour or two? Many community and service organizations need people power as much as money. Help out stocking the food shelf, delivering Meals on Wheels, or volunteering at an underresourced school.

4.

Contact local school social workers or counselors to see if there are needs with which you can help: providing winter clothing, lunch money, or school supplies are often big ways to make an impact right in your own community.

5.

Get to know your neighbors. Do you know all the people in your neighborhood?

Has someone new moved in? Do you have someone living nearby who has limited mobility or health issues that make going out of the house difficult? Consider bringing them a new magazine, a small houseplant, fresh fruit or homemade goodies to brighten their day—and stay for a few minutes to chat!

Often the biggest thing that keeps us from helping our neighbor is fear—the fear that we’ll be rejected, that we aren’t doing the right thing or that they’ll abuse our generosity. We can’t always control the

outcome, but it is the gesture made in love that matters. Perhaps making a concerted effort to serve the other as a Lenten practice will become a year-round habit. Serving is always in season.

S E R V I N G YO U R NEIGHBOR I N O U R FA I T H COMMUNIT Y

Here are some of the ways that you can actively serve your neighbor within our own faith community.

ONE

Volunteer in the child care center during our events.

CONTACT R ACHEL ARENDS rarends@spdlc.org T WO

Serve breakfast monthly at Sharing and Caring Hands.

CONTACT GINNY STEELE g1gsteele@hotmail.com THREE

Help organize and pack shoes and other supplies to be sent to Haiti.

CONTACT PASTOR VALERIE vstrand@spdlc.org FOUR

Families Moving Forward serves those experiencing homelessness three times a year, with opportunities to serve meals, serve as hosts, or play with kids.

CONTACT PASTOR VALERIE vstrand@spdlc.org FIVE

Learn more about lay ministry and how to serve those who are sick, homebound or unable to drive.

CONTACT PARISH NURSE SUSAN PATH spath@spdlc.org

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REC ONC ILIATION AND HE ALING : C RO S S AND S PIRIT

BY K AT E S T E R N E R

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St. Philip the Deacon

“ I O N C E WAS L O S T, B U T N OW A M FO U N D ; WAS BLIND, BUT NOW I SEE .”

T

hese words from the hymn "Amazing Grace" were part of the invitation to St. Philip the Deacon’s 2017 summer spiritual retreat, held at St. John’s University in Collegeville. The retreat invited Minnesota artist James Quentin Young to lead participants in a day-long workshop using found objects to create artwork based on the cross. Young’s artwork focuses on images of the cross made with discarded and broken items, representing Christ’s acceptance of our f lawed and rejected lives and our transformation through his death and resurrection.

Several participants were inspired to continue creating works of art based on the cross. Among them is Sue Hebeisen, who actually began making crosses before the retreat, and immediately connected with Young. “The thing I remember most about the workshop was talking with [Young] about the artistic process being Spirit led, and we were both in the same place about the drive to create.”

Hebeisen began making crosses a few years ago when our Lenten theme was Crosses. People were invited to bring their crosses to church and display them in the narthex. Pastor Strand Patterson shared the book Making Crosses by Ellen Morris Prewitt, which got her creative juices f lowing. Hebeisen took copies of a song from one of the Lenten worship bulletins and fashioned crosses out of the rolled up paper. “I was so moved by the idea that we could take all of this discarded stuff and make something new and beautiful. On some level, that is what the cross is about.”

OF THINGS LOST One of her earliest creations was made of stones, and bound into a cross shape using

a wire-wrapping technique. “This rock one was the first one where it was truly a healing process to make,” said Hebeisen.

She made it when her husband didn’t get a job he applied for that everyone was sure was going to be the perfect fit. “But God’s timing is not our timing. Sometimes in life you don’t understand why things don’t work out the way you want. There was a huge grieving process that went with this rejection.”

In fashioning that cross, “I have pricked my fingers a lot and bled a lot over this project and shed many tears, not just because of pain but because of the releasing power. It’s a very active prayer. It’s the most healing and powerful thing. It was a grieving process, and this is what came out of that grieving process.”

OF THINGS FOUND Hebeisen has a few “rules” for herself which provide a foundation and integrity to her work. “I can’t just go to the store to buy what I need. I have to find things. My crosses are made of repurposed and scrap materials, left over craft supplies and broken things.”

One example of discarded materials becoming an integral part of her artwork came in the form of therapeutic tape—a critical tool of recovery from a severe car accident four years ago, which left Hebeisen with a broken body and badly bruised brain. In the months of recovery that followed, her skin, muscles and nervous system received essential support from the strategic use of therapeutic tape.

Hebeisen was inspired to create a cross representing her healing from the accident. A bottom layer, painted black,

represented all the darkness, suffering and disconnectedness of the injury. Hovering above it is a clear piece of vellum, containing words and images of hope, strength and growth. When she first looked for something to separate the two layers, she attempted to use scrap wood from a home renovation project, but the little blocks of wood kept splitting. When it finally dawned on her that the perfect supporting medium was rolled up bits of therapeutic tape—well, that was a revelation. “It was like, seriously? But really, it was perfect. The vellum, I knew, needed to be raised above the dark stuff so that the light would overcome that. My plan did not work at all. God had a different answer. It was a powerful piece to make, and who but the Spirit could have led me to use the tape?”

NOW I SEE “There’s a difference between making art and doing a spiritual piece,” said Hebeisen.

“What I remember from talking to Young at the workshop was ‘the aha! moment,’ the point at which you realize that the work cannot succeed without the invitation of the Spirit—or an invitation to the Spirit. There have been times when I have tried to force the process—it just doesn’t work. If it’s not a process that begins with prayer, and I didn’t invite the Spirit in to work through my hands, it doesn’t happen.

This process has helped to open me up to hearing the Holy Spirit. If it’s the Spirit inviting me, it has to be done. God can be very persistent. I never know what’s going to come out. And what I envision is rarely how it ends up. My plan may not always be God’s plan.”

This creative process, along with many other forms of art, continues to be an intersection where Hebeisen’s life experiences and her devotional practices help her to encounter the divine.

The images featured are of crosses made

by Hebeisen. For more information about James Quentin Young visit his website at jqystudios.com. SPD also has one of Young’s pieces on display in the atrium.

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W H AT I S L E N T ?

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

A

sh Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent—a season of 40 days when God calls us to ref lect on the meaning of Christ’s death and resurrection. We begin with a reminder of our mortality: a cross traced in ash on our forehead accompanied by these words from Genesis 3: “Remember that you are dust and to dust you shall return.”

The word Lent comes from the AngloSaxon word lencten which means “lengthen.” The season of Lent falls in the spring just as our days begin to lengthen.

Originally, Lent was a two-day period of preparation for those being baptized at Easter. In the middle of the fourth century it was expanded to three weeks, and finally, to six weeks as we observe it now. Sundays are excluded from the count of 40 because they are celebrated as feasts of the resurrection.

The number 40 is a significant number in Scripture: marking the number of days and nights of rain when the f lood destroyed the earth; the number of years the Israelites spent in the wilderness; the number of days Moses fasted before receiving the Ten Commandments; and the number of days Jesus spent in the wilderness prior to his public ministry.

The color for Lent is a deep purple symbolizing repentance and solemnity.

While the practice of fasting for Lent is not required for Lutherans, giving something up is a way to daily remember the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross. Others find it meaningful to “take on something” for the season like a daily discipline of prayer, Scripture reading, or act of service.

See Lectio for Lent for a prayer practice to try this year.

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St. Philip the Deacon

FIGHTING FAIR HOW TO DISAGREE

BY K AT E S T E R N E R

D

isagreements are a normal part of human communication. But sometimes we can lose perspective and end up feeling angry or defensive. Here are some tips to help keep disagreements calm. Pick one and remember it, and try it out the next time you find yourself at odds with someone: Don’t make it a battle that you intend to win. It’s normal for people to have different opinions. But dominating a discussion with your point isn’t worth losing a friend.

It’s important to understand why the other person thinks as they do.

Have you heard of the YouTube star

called

Kid

President?

Robby Novak and his older brother-in-law, Brad Montague, have produced a number of videos with the simple aim

of helping to create a better world. A delightful video which will appeal to all ages—How to Disagree—can be found at youtu.be/ghk-nDJB3Tk.

Listen to the other person. When you respect and understand their perspective, it’s more likely that they will do the same for you. Focus on what’s being said. When it’s your turn to talk, repeat any key points the other person made to show you heard what they said. If someone thinks you’re listening thoughtfully, they are more likely to respond in kind.

Don’t make it personal. If you get upset, it can help to remember you’re mad at the idea or concept, rather than the person you’re talking to. Avoid putting down the other person’s ideas and beliefs. Resist the temptation to yell, use sarcasm, or make derogatory comments and you’ll have a much better chance of getting your point across.

Use “I” statements to communicate how you feel, what you think, and what you want or need. “I felt hurt when…” or “I’m concerned because…” are great ways to start. It’s an authentic and honest way to defend your ideas, without diminishing the other person.

Stay calm. This is the most important thing you can do to keep a conversation civil. Of course, it’s a huge challenge to stay calm and rational when you feel angry or passionate about something—especially if the person you’re talking to also gets heated. You may need to be the one who regains perspective and tones the discussion down. Chances are, deep down, the other person will be grateful to you for helping them calm down, too.

Recognize the good. There’s almost always some nugget of truth or wisdom in someone else’s argument. Before launching into your own position, preface it with something that you like about that person’s original argument. A respectful and compromising attitude can inspire a similar response.

Rehearse. Keeping in mind the above principles, try to pre-formulate your response to arguments that you anticipate might come up in the future. Practice responding respectfully and calmly. Then, should a situation arise, you’ll have a healthier response ready on the tip of your tongue.

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ONE DAY AT

BY AMANDA BERGER

I

A

t is estimated that 1 in 10 Americans struggles with substance abuse and addiction, with the largest percentage of those people suffering from alcohol addiction. “The biggest myth about addiction is that it’s a disease of moral deficiency or character f law,” said Mike Conley, leader of the SPD Tuesday A A Group. Addiction is, in fact, recognized as a chronic disease and considered a mental illness by both medical professionals and counselors. There is no cure; only management. “Any ‘-ism’ is the way a person tries to control the deeper problems that we face, like low self-esteem, shame, genetics, or fear,” said Conley. “Substance abuse gives the

addict something they didn’t have in their personality—maybe a feeling of control, confidence or courage.”

The history of addiction is a difficult one. For a long time, addiction was not recognized as a disease, but rather stigmatized as moral failure, weakness or selfishness in its sufferers. This led to feelings of shame and fear among families of addicts and made it difficult for those in need to get help. More recently, however, the medical community and mental health professionals have worked hard to overturn those myths, allowing for open conversation about addiction and recovery in the mainstream.

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St. Philip the Deacon

Since 1939, the Alcoholics Anonymous Blue Book has been the gold standard for aiding those recovering from substance abuse and addition. This 12-step plan for recovery, originally written for those recovering from alcohol addiction, has been adapted to aid those recovering from many other types of addiction. Part of its success stems from the recognition that addiction affects every aspect of life—physical, mental, spiritual and relational. Those working through the 12 steps come to admit to their own weakness, recognize that they cannot face the disease on their own and recognize a higher power (God) and their dependence on that power.

Critical to the 12-step recovery process is attendance at regular meetings, which provide a safe place for those in recovery to find community, support and sponsorship.

Conley, 38 years sober himself, believes in the power of that group support. “It’s always ‘we’ never an ‘I’ in Alcoholics Anonymous... it’s about team and attitude and being honest and vulnerable.” The group that meets on Tuesday night at St. Philip the Deacon is an intimate one, averaging 10-15 participants in a given week. “You build relationships; you don’t want to let them down,” said Conley. “If someone falls off the wagon, it’s like the prodigal son, they are welcomed back with open arms.”

While 12-step programs are not the only recovery programs available, they are widely accessible. Someone seeking help can certainly begin by attending a meeting.

Recognizing their need for help is critical to recovery and is often the result of the addict hitting “rock bottom.” Some may

choose residential treatment programs as a starting point, but it really is just a start.

“Many people believe that 28 or 30 days in a treatment program will ‘cure’ someone with addiction,” says Conley, “but it’s really just the start. Recovery comes from year after year after year of being a part of the meetings.”

When asked about the best way for our faith community to continue to support the SPD Tuesday AA Group, Conley said that our support and hospitality are the most important, giving those trying to get help a place to find support. Another is to let others who may need help know about the group. Our ability to talk honestly about addiction and recovery without judgement is a huge part of an addict’s recovery process. While the SPD Tuesday AA Group follows the traditional 12-step program outline, there aren’t a lot of rules. Conley said, “People are people and if they’re hurting, we don’t like rules if they get in the way of people healing.”

Although SPD has hosted other A A groups in the past, our current SPD Tuesday A A Group began meeting under the leadership of Mike Conley (SPD member) and Mike S. (non-member) in 2016. The group meets ever y Tuesday night at 6:30 p.m. in the Youth Room. Additionally, beginning in 2019, SPD will also host Alternative Peer Groups (APG) for PEASE Academy as a way to support young people and families recovering from addiction.

TIME

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FINDING NEW LIFE AN INTERVIEW WITH ABBEY ULRICH

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St. Philip the Deacon

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he summer before Abbey Ulrich entered high school, she began to use drugs and alcohol following her recovery from an eating disorder, trading one disease for another. After seeking help through a residential treatment program and then by supporting her recovery by attending PEASE Academy, a sober high a school in Minneapolis to finish high school, Abbey is now celebrating over two years sober.

She bravely talks about the realities of addiction and recovery in this interview with Amanda Berger.

AB: Tell me a little of your story. How did your addiction start? What was the breaking point? When did you know you needed to get help and what did that help look like?

AU: I started using after I got out of treatment for an eating disorder. I was turning from one external thing to another.

It was the beginning of high school and I was struggling with depression, and drugs were the easiest way to fix my sadness. I had no idea that I was addicted. I thought that this was what all high schoolers did, or

that I was coping with mental illness and life in general. Once consequences started coming and I was completely unable to stop using, my parents recognized the problem. I still didn’t believe it was a problem because I thought it was one of the only things that could make me happy. I really struggled to take the help. I didn’t know I needed help until about six months into living without drugs and alcohol, when I realized that I had absolutely no idea how to cope with life. I was finally ready to accept help, and finally able to recognize that my solution [substance abuse] was causing more harm than helping me.

You write a blog, you have appeared on WCCO, and KARE11...why do you feel like it’s so important to speak out and share your story?

I share my experience because I am so lucky to be where I am today and I wouldn’t be here without other people. For one, I learned that being sober was possible through seeing other people do it. I also think it’s important to share because I may not be the typical image that comes to mind when one thinks of addiction, but

"I share my experience because I am so lucky to be where I am today and I wouldn’t be here without other people."

anyone can be an addict. I was a young high school girl with good grades, on the soccer team, and had a lot of followers on social media. Drug addiction can affect anyone.

What was the hardest thing for you in your recovery journey?

The hardest thing about my recovery journey was surrendering, and it still is.

My will is what gets me in trouble. My will would be using drugs and alcohol. Every day I need to surrender to my higher power, and accept that he will take care of me better than I know how.

What helped you the most during the recovery process?

The most helpful thing as a person in recovery is support. There’s no way I’d be where I am today without the support I’ve gotten through family and other people who are in the same boat as me.

What would you like people to know about teens and addiction?

Teen addiction doesn’t just involve heroin or meth. I feel like it’s a lot easier to see addiction when it is to harder drugs. In my experience, it’s a lot harder to accept addiction when it’s to drugs that are more accepted, like marijuana and alcohol.

What role has your faith played in recovery?

My faith has transformed since I’ve been sober. While using, my faith in God decreased because drugs and alcohol were giving me more than I believed God could. Now that I’m sober I realize that I made drugs and alcohol my god; I put them above everything and turned to them for everything. Since I’ve been sober I’ve had to rediscover and reconnect to God. What are you up to now? What role does your former addiction and recovery play in your life now?

My life is built around my recovery because without my recovery, I don’t have much of a life. I live in a sober program at Augsburg University, where I am in my second year. I’m working to graduate with a major in clinical psychology and a double minor in creative writing and communications. I love to learn.

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A PARENT’S PERSPECTIVE

BY EDDIE ULRICH

E

ntering Abbey into an inpatient recovery program for addiction was one of the most difficult decisions we have ever made as parents. We found ourselves questioning our decision more than once along the way. Was this just normal teenage drinking or was our daughter truly an addict? Was this about addiction or was she just using drugs to cope with depression? Should we focus on the depression and then maybe the drug use would stop on its own?

But after trying just about everything we could to “control” the situation—extended groundings, drug testing, searching her room, forbidding her to see certain friends—we soon realized that her usage was not only beyond OUR control, it was also beyond hers.

Through the family education we eventually received at Hazelden, we were taught the “Three C’s” that every parent of addiction must learn: 1) I didn’t CAUSE it. 2) I can’t CONTROL it. And 3) I can’t CURE it. These three sentences hit us like a ton of bricks and as parents, they were hard for us to accept.

Looking back, even after admitting Abbey into Hazelden, we were still in denial about her addiction and how difficult a journey she had ahead of her. The 28 days of treatment that we thought would resolve everything was only the beginning —at the end of 28 days, Abbey had reached the point of accepting that she should be sober but she still hadn’t reached a decision that she wanted to be sober.

Now, two and a half years into her sobriety, it’s still one day at a time—as it always will be. But we are so proud of everything she’s accomplished on her own.

The vision of her future that seemed so dim when her addiction first appeared now seems even brighter than before. We know she is meant for great things and everything she’s been through has only prepared her more for that bright future. When we share our story with others, we feel blessed that it includes a positive message of hope—especially when we know so many other stories of addiction that don’t.

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

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DECISIONS OF A LIFETIME

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ach year on Ash Wednesday we are reminded of or, depending on your perspective, confronted with, our mortality. A smudge of ash traced in the shape of a cross on each person’s forehead is accompanied by these words: “Remember that you are dust and to dust you shall return.” These words, echoing Genesis 3:19, speak the truth: we do not live forever. One day we will die.

As Christians we understand that death is a consequence of sin as St. Paul writes: “The wages of sin is death” (Romans 6:23). We also affirm that we can face death with confidence because of what Jesus has accomplished for us on the cross. St. Paul continues, “... but the free gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord” (Romans 6:23). This understanding of death shapes not only how we approach the dying process, but more importantly, it shapes how we live today.

Indeed, our understanding of death has the potential and power to shape how we live our lives. It has been estimated that at the time of a death there are over 140 decisions that need to be made in a matter of just a few short days. Who should be called? Burial or cremation?

What Scripture shall be read at the service? Which hymns? What funeral home? Memorials to which organizations? Who will give a tribute? Will there be a visitation? Flowers? How many will be in attendance? Where is the will? It is no wonder that people describe the early days after a loss in one word: overwhelming.

Whenever and however death comes, be it a result of a terminal illness or suddenly and unexpectedly, there are things you can do to ensure that your wishes and desires are known; and there are things you can do to ease the burden on your loved ones who otherwise are left guessing at what you would have wanted. “One piece of advice that I encourage people to think about as they complete any estate planning is, no matter the size of what you have, make sure it goes to where you intend it to,” said Theresa Johnson, SPD member and estate planning attorney. “If you want to leave something to a charity you are passionate about, or to your church, or any sort of legacy gift, you need to spell that out in a will, trust, or via beneficiary designations.”

There are many documents, from your will to plans for your memorial service, that can be completed well before the time they are needed. “While it is often something that people want to avoid, imagine the relief of your spouse, children or other relatives knowing exactly how best to honor you and carry out your wishes,” said Johnson. “It is a gift for those that you love and can be helpful even in the event of a serious illness or if you become incapacitated.”

Surprisingly, this kind of planning does not have to be morbid or depressing. Memorial services typically have the feel of a celebration of a life well lived, balanced with the mourning. Allow this planning to be a process of celebrating your accomplishments and the legacy that you will leave the world.

TA LK ING A B OU T DE ATH WITH S OMEONE YOU LOV E

There are a lot of details to consider when planning for the end of life. Here are some of the things that are important to consider and discuss with your family.

L E G A L D O C U M E N T S including wills, life insurance, financial documents and other assets which you will want to be distributed after your death.

D E C I S I O N S health care directives, living will and organ donation. Additionally, you will want to make sure that your family knows your wishes regarding hospice, pastoral care and place of death. Our Parish Nurse, Susan Path has information that can assist you in making these decisions. Contact Susan Path at (763) 475-7100.

H E A LT H C A R E

F U N E R A L A R R A N G E M E N T S Have

you selected a funeral home or prepaid for these services? SPD offers a funeral plan My Preferences for My Funeral or Memorial Service, which, once completed, we will keep a copy on file for you. Additionally, many funeral homes have checklists and guides to walk you step by step through the process. Contact a funeral home directly to request a copy.

D I G I TA L Does someone know how to access your online accounts, both regarding bill paying, account management and social media? For more details about managing your digital footprint, an article written by estate planning attorney, James Lamm, is available at spdlc.org/inspire.

THE

T H E E M O T I O N A L Are there relationships

that need tending or mending? Any last words to be said or letters that you want to write? How do you want to say goodbye?

T H E L E G A C Y Do you have stories to tell or

record? How do you want to be remembered? Are there gifts or charitable contributions that you wish to make? For additional resources and worksheets for end of life planning, visit spdlc.mylegacygift.org.

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AT H O M E IN THE WORLD

INTERVIE W WITH TSH OXENREIDER

BY TIM WESTERMEYER

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“Once you embrace the truth that nowhere this side of heaven is perfect, you can stop trying to slake your thirst for travel or coziness, and enjoy each moment for what it is.”

T W: For those unfamiliar with you, can you explain the name? Is there a s tor y behind it ? Were your parents opposed to vowels or something?

TO: My go-to, short answer is that it was the ’70s and my parents were in an experimental mood when they named me.

My name's origin is Russian, apparently, but we have no Russian heritage; and when I went to Russia back in 1993, only one person had heard of my name—so it's obscure even there. I like my name now (good for being an author, good for claiming domain names and handles), but my parents never would have guessed that they'd saddled me with a lifetime of calling out my own name any time I see anyone

pause as they look at a piece of paper that probably has my name on it (think waiting rooms).

You’ve been blogging for about 10 years now. What has been the biggest learning—about writing, or community, or whatever—for you from the past decade of practicing this discipline?

Because I'm basically a dinosaur in internet-years, I've seen how much the internet—and the fine art of clamoring for online attention—has changed. It can be exhausting, feeling like you have to constantly invent yourself to be relevant.

Because of this, I've learned it's essential to straddle a fine line between keeping

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up with new ways of working with unapologetically being true to what's best for you. The older I get, the more I lean wholeheartedly towards the latter.

Do you have any upcoming projects that you’re currently focused on or excited about?

I'm currently working on a novel, my first time writing fiction! It's a thousand times harder than writing nonfiction (for me, anyway), but I'm loving it, and I can't wait to share it with the world.

Travel is obviously a huge part of your life.

Talk a bit about the connections between being both rooted while at the same time having the mindset of an explorer. Said differently—and referencing the subtitle of your most recent book—what is the relation between “belonging” and “wandering”?

I've come to find that wanderlust and homebody-ness come from the same root: a desire to find a perfect slice of heaven on earth. Once you embrace the truth that nowhere this side of heaven is perfect, you can stop trying to slake your thirst for travel or coziness, and enjoy each moment for what it is. I'll never go everywhere I

want to go. My home will never be exactly how I want it.

This also means I've learned the sacred value of living in a community, where neighbors know where to send our dog when she escapes for a walk around the block, where I wave to the same librarians every week, where people at church ask how our latest travels were and if we're glad to be back home. Travel is only as great as its opposite, where you appreciate your home even more when you're not in it, and also when you reminisce fondly over street food in Thailand as you stir soup in your own kitchen.

How do you think about simplicity—another major theme for you—these days? Why is simplicity important?

This is another trend that's almost become a buzzword thanks to the internet—I started writing about simple living over a decade ago, when we were living in Turkey. The more I've explored the topic, the more I wholeheartedly believe that it's not a list of do's or don'ts, and it's definitely not a backwards race to see who

“The act of travel, one foot in front of the other, can be a spiritual practice...”

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can live with the least amount of stuff (follow some hyper-evangelists on this topic on the internet, and it'll start to feel this way). To me, the best definition of "simple living" is "living holistically with your life's purpose," where you know the essential few things that matter to you so you can freely ignore the rest. Once you embrace this, it's so much easier to say no, guilt-free—which means you can shout an enthusiastic YES! to the things you love.

Home is where we are known, AND it's where we know—where we invest in others, where we serve, where we choose to be more vulnerable than in other places.

Our physical homes actually matter.

How would you define “home”?

I used to believe "home is wherever your people are," an encouraging thought when I was traveling the world with my family.

I now believe it's that, plus it's actually the walls within which you hang your backpack when you're not traveling. It really is literally a place where you can settle and be yourself, where you keep your toothbrush, where the wifi connects automatically.

I suppose this is why I could never be a long-term digital nomad, as much as I love being gone for long stints of time.

What have your travels taught you about faith?

The act of travel, one foot in front of the other, can be a spiritual practice—it's faith that another place can welcome me out of its goodness and teach me out of its history and experience. It's trust that God is still God, anywhere on the planet, and that people worldwide matter just as much as me. It's hope that I will see the face of God in other people, no matter how different their way of life is from mine. It's delighting in God's creativity, that diversity is a divine goodness and gift to us.

What has parenting taught you about life?

Mostly that it's not about me. It's also taught me how fast it goes, how fun it can be, and that sticky spots all over the house aren't the end of the world.

This issue is focused on the theme of “Mercy.”

How would you unpack that word, or its meaning? What does it mean for you?

I'd always heard the definition of mercy as "God not giving you what you deserve," but I don't really resonate well with that. To me, mercy is an act of love that overf lows from God's love for us. To show mercy is to remember God first loved me and everyone else. To receive mercy means a remembrance of God's constant outpouring of love towards me and everyone else.

Your talk in March is on “Faith & Travel: How Exploring Restores Your Soul & Bonds Your Family.” When people come to that, what can they expect to hear?

I'll share my family's story on how and why we choose to live out of backpacks for a school year, learning from places around the world. And I'll share both how you can do it, too, or if not, how you can still learn from the world without leaving your home. And in all this, I’ll talk about how travel can be a spiritual discipline.

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NO PL ACE TO CALL HOME

BY AMANDA BERGER

W

hen you drive through Plymouth and Wayzata, you see comfortable homes and tidy yards. Happy children wait at the bus stop and people in nice cars are driving to work. What you don’t see at first glance is that poverty, hunger and homelessness are very real within our community.

health status of low-income persons. If we don’t address the housing problem, we will continue to have poor outcomes while driving up the costs of education and health care,” said Sandvig.

“About a third of homeless adults in Minnesota are employed and most earn less than $10 an hour. Fair market rent in the Twin Cities is around $1,089 for a two-bedroom apartment,” said Linda Sandvig, SPD member and volunteer with Families Moving Forward.

“Many of these workers earning low and moderate wages provide essential services for their communities—child care, food service, health care, bank teller or school bus driver, for example. These are people who live in the community.”

Partnerships with Families Moving Forward and Beacon Interfaith Housing Collaborative are ways SPD provides aid to those experiencing homelessness. Three times a year, families are hosted in the church who would otherwise spend their nights in shelters or in their cars. During those weeks, a team of over 90 volunteers provides clean, safe rooms, healthy meals and child care for the families who stay with us. During the day, Beacon provides the families with a place to store their belongings, to do laundry, gets their kids to school, provides child care and gives the adults time to go to work, interview for jobs or search for permanent housing.

Those involved in the program desperately want stability, jobs and a safe place for their kids to grow up. “Giving up isn’t an option,” says Lucretia*, a former FMF participant, “but every day, my children ask me: ‘When do we get to go home?’ and it’s hard to have to say—again—‘Sorry, baby, not today.’”

Sandvig, who prior to retirement worked in public policy, saw the direct impact homelessness had on the areas in which she worked. “Research has confirmed that homelessness and housing instability play a huge role in the educational success and

Affordable housing is not the only struggle for these families. “Transportation is an issue,” said Sandy Dockter, the SPD Families Moving Forward Hosting Coordinator.

“Suburban Plymouth has some public transportation, but the busses do not often

There are many myths surrounding homelessness, with some of the biggest being that the main cause of homelessness is addiction and mental illness. This myth places blame on the victim, but more often homelessness is caused by lack of affordable housing, racism, income inequality and generational poverty.

run on schedules that people need to work the jobs available to them. In addition,” Dockter said, “families with children have expenses for their children to attend school, grocery and clothing needs, in addition to trying to save enough money for their rent deposit.” Many of these families are one child’s illness, one automobile breakdown or rent increase from experiencing homelessness.

“Sometimes I don’t know how I got through the day, but I did it,” said Lucretia. “Running on zero sleep, zero energy, but still being forced to step up every day because you want a better tomorrow for your kids. That’s really hard.”

Children are often most affected by homelessness. More than half of the homeless population in Minnesota is under age 24. In programs like Families Moving Forward, the goal is to have families out of shelters and into stable housing quickly, disrupting their lives as little as possible.

“More and more families are finding it hard to move out of the program because there simply aren’t enough options for affordable housing for them to move into,” said Dan Gregory, communications manager at Beacon. “Our target is for families to be in the program no longer than 60 days…and the majority of our families are now pushing right up to that or going beyond it. “ Currently, about 4,000 Plymouth households are living in poverty, and it is projected that the city will need 763 affordable homes over the next decade. While there is some progress being made in this area, more help is needed. There are plans for a new affordable housing complex, Cranberry Ridge, to be built in Plymouth. While the city has approved the project, Beacon is still seeking funds to make this a reality.

Interfaith Outreach is also a key ally in the fight to keep families in their homes. Interfaith Outreach, which is located at the intersection of County Road 6 and 101, provides resources to families living in poverty. From career counseling to maintaining a food

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shelf, Interfaith Outreach works alongside partners like Beacon to help families stay in their homes.

Ending homelessness is a difficult issue because it involves both working to change policy and build more affordable housing which requires time, while trying to aid families who are struggling right now. There are many ways to get involved. Sandy Dockter is always looking for those who can volunteer during our FMF hosting weeks, which includes making meals, watching kids, and just being a welcoming presence. If your time is limited, then there are many ways to give financially to the Beacon Interfaith Housing Collaborative and Families Moving Forward.

To learn more about volunteer opportunities, contact Pastor Valerie Strand Patterson (vstrand@spdlc.org) or Sandy Dockter (sandymdoc@gmail.com). To learn more about Beacon and giving opportunities, visit beaconinterfaith.org/donate. *Lucretia was evicted from her apartment after losing her job because of being put on bedrest during her pregnancy. Because of the shortage of affordable housing, landlords were dismissive of Lucretia, even though her prior rental record was perfect. After several months in shelters and participating in FMF, she was finally able to move her family into permanent housing in late summer 2018.

Last name withheld for privacy.

T O P Sandy Dockter and Linda Sandvig are members at SPD who are passionate about

working to solve the affordable housing crisis in our community. M I D D L E Lucretia and her family found assistance from Beacon and Families Moving For ward. B O T T O M SPD keeps a supply of pillows, blankets and other necessities for hosting FMF, simple supplies which we take for granted that families experiencing homelessness often lack.

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RECIPES & PHOTOGRAPHY

BY AMANDA BERGER

SOUP ER SUP P ERS Loving God,  bless our food and drink  our friendship and our laughter  that we may be renewed  in body, mind, and spirit  to work together  for the coming of your kingdom  of justice, love, and peace.  Amen.

M AUR E E N E DWA R DS , B L E S S E D B E O U R TA B L E

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A food of healing. A food of welcome. Simple, hearty, soup has long had a connection to Lent as it reminds us of both God’s abundance and shows us how little we truly need.

Recreate the Lenten soup supper’s feast of fellowship at home with these simple and delicious soups.  01. CREAM OF BROCCOLI SOUP

This is chock-full of healthy vegetables and is kid-approved. Serve with fresh ground black pepper. Dairy free, gluten free, vegetarian.

3 tbsp butter or ghee 1 large onion, chopped 1 tbsp cumin 1 tsp sage ½ cup celery, chopped 1 14.5 oz can coconut milk* 1 quart vegetable broth or chicken stock 2 cups water 8 cups broccoli, chopped 4 cups zucchini, chopped 1 tbsp Sriracha or other hot sauce 1 avocado, cubed 1 ½ tsp salt 1 tsp pepper In a large stock pot, melt the butter over med-high heat. Add the onion, celery, sage and cumin. Sautee until softened.

Add coconut milk, chicken stock, water, broccoli, zucchini, hot sauce, avocado, salt and pepper. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.

Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly. Using an immersion blender, blend until smooth.

02. WHITE CHICKEN CHILI

With its short ingredient list, this surprisingly simple crock pot chili is packed with f lavor. Gluten free. Makes 8 meal-sized servings.

3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts 1 onion 2 4 oz cans diced green chiles 2 15 oz cans great northern beans 1 15 oz can (or frozen) whole kernel corn

01.

4 tsp chicken bouillon granules 2 tsp ground cumin 1 tsp salt ½ tsp black pepper 5 cups water Green onion, sour cream, Monterrey Jack cheese optional Put all ingredients in the crock pot on low for about 7 hours. 1 hour before serving, remove chicken and shred. Put back into the crock pot, and cook for 1 more hour.

02.

03. TORTELLINI & I TA L I A N S A U S A G E S O U P

The spiciness of this soup will depend a lot on the sausage you buy—it’s equally delicious with mild or hot.

1 lb ground Italian sausage 1 medium onion, finely chopped 3 cloves garlic, minced 2 tbsp dried Italian seasoning 1 tsp salt 6 cups chicken broth 28 oz can crushed tomatoes with basil 1 14.5 oz can pureed tomatoes 1 20 oz bag of frozen cheese tortellini Grated parmesan cheese for garnish Brown the sausage in a skillet along with the onion, breaking it up into small bits.

When it is browned about halfway, add the garlic. Once it is fully browned, add the Italian seasoning and salt; cook 1 minute.

Stir in the broth and tomatoes; bring to a simmer. Then, add the tortellini; cook until the tortellini is tender—10-12 minutes.

Serve, topped with parmesan cheese.

*If you eat dairy, you can substitute 2 cups of milk for the coconut milk. Instead of adding with everything else, add the milk when you remove from heat, prior to blending.

03.

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OUT

&

ABOUT

On December 5 , SPD members gat hered for a n a f ter noon tea at t he Min nesot a L a nd scape A rboret u m, enjoy ing food, fel lowsh ip a nd t he beaut if u l holid ay decorat ion s.

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Fig. 01 I TA LY

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Ciao, Bella!

WORDS BY AMANDA BERGER PHOTOS BY TOM & SUE ABR AHAMSON

E

xploring the world is the perfect way to mark a life transition, using travel as a way to close the door on one season of life and begin another.

This past September, Tom and Sue Abrahamson spent two weeks in Italy to celebrate Tom’s retirement and their 33rd wedding anniversary. “We thought a separation event like a two-week trip would be a good way to step away from a long 34-year career at Cargill,” said Tom. They began their trip in Venice and then went to Florence, which included a day excursion into Tuscany. Next was Cinque Terre, then Pisa, followed by Capri, Positano in the Amalfi Coast and a brief stop in Pompeii before ending in Rome. “Highlights were the 3+ hour hikes we took in Cinque Terre and the Path of Gods hike in

the Amalfi Coast,” remarked Tom. “Also, the food was excellent everywhere. Our best meals were in Capri and Venice. We saw more churches than I can count and climbed up numerous bell towers. The Vatican was impressive and a memorable way to close out our trip.”

The trip sounds enchanting. “We were surprised by the kindness of the Italian people and the willingness to be helpful,” said Tom, “also, the sites never get old.

Being from the United States, our history is relatively recent. While the history at places like Pompeii or seeing locations where Paul lived almost 2,000 years ago was mind-boggling.”

“We chose Italy because it is a place that Sue has always wished to visit,” said Tom. They chose to visit sites that you often

hear or read about such as the Vatican or the city of Venice. “The beauty of God’s creation was revealed to us many times in nature. In particular, Venice, the city built on water was fascinating. The mountainous views of the Amalfi Coast were almost surreal. The Path of Gods hike and the hike on the Cinque Terre trail were unforgettable. The God-given talents on display at the Uffizi Art Gallery, sculptures by Michelangelo, along with his work at the Sistine Chapel stood out in our minds,” said Tom. The Abrahamsons mentioned that there was so much more to see, and how even with two weeks they had limited time in each location. All to the good, since now there’s more to see next time!

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Our Christmas ministries impact hundreds of people every year, making it possible for those living in shelters and children from low-income families to both give and receive gifts.

! u o Y k Than “Thank you for the gifts that were collected for Home Free.

We are so grateful that you remember the families at Home Free each year. Thank you for helping us create a wonderful Christmas for the families here.” —Kari, Home Free Shelter “This is my first holiday working here at Missions. I am touched by the tremendous efforts of everyone here to make the holidays special for residents. Many of our residents have little of their own when they come to us.

They are so pleased that people care about them enough to shop and give these gifts.

You all make a significant impact across all of our programs. Thank you for your generosity and for lifting the spirits of all here at Missions, Inc.—residents and staff alike.”

—Kristin, Missions Inc. “I wanted to let you know how the little things you do have made a tremendous impact on so many of the poorest families in the Twin Cities area. For the past two Christmases, many of

you have brought new purses, warm clothing, scarves, gloves, hats, jewelry, toys, books, tools, beauty and skin care products to the church for use by people in need. I want you to know that each and every item went to someone in need. Because St. Philip also provided gift bags, tissue and wrapping paper, another therapist and I were able to witness the sheer joy of the children and parents as they picked out and wrapped gifts for people they loved and cared about.” —Mary Emmeck, mental health practitioner “I would like to let you know how your gifts made a huge difference in my clients’ lives. You all were able to give 8 of my clients and their families gifts for Christmas. One of my particular clients received a purse and she began to cry. When I asked her why she was crying, I quote, 'I always wanted a purse but I never had enough funds to buy one due to life circumstances and God has not forsaken me.'

Once again thank you very much for helping bring joy to those wonderful families.”

—Mirlie Abraham, social worker

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MARCH

8 - 10

SPRING CA LE NDA R

W O M E N ’ S R E T R E AT: M A K I N G YO U R H O M E A P E AC E F U L SA NCTUA RY

Learn how to make your home a peaceful sanctuary that nourishes your body, mind and spirit while also being a place to welcome guests with hospitality and grace. Using ritual, discussion and art we will learn how to envision and shape our home as a sacred space.

S U N D AY MARCH

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T U E S D AY, M A R C H 1 2 T H E C O N V E R S AT I O N 1:00 – 2:30 PM

A monthly gathering featuring a wide variety of topics and time for fellowship and conversation. So whether you are retired, semi-retired, or just free for the afternoon, join us for The Conversation.

Our guests this month will include an eagle and owls (and their handlers) from the University of Minnesota Raptor Center.

O W L M O O N AT T H E S TA G E S T H E AT E R

4:00 pm performance—Enrich the experience of the children’s book read, and enjoy an afternoon performance of "Owl Moon," at the Stages Theater in Hopkins with others from SPD.

CHILDREN’S WINTER READ: OWL MOON

Enjoy the Caldecott Award winning book Owl Moon

by Jane Yolen with the children in your life. On a winter night a little girl and her father go owling in the winter woods. Wordlessly, the two walk along, for when you do owling you don’t need words. You don’t need anything but hope. Sometimes there isn’t an owl, but sometimes there is. This poetic story depicts the special relationship between the child and father, as well as the relationship with nature. Books are available for purchase at the Hospitality Desk.

T U E S D AY, M A R C H 1 9 FULL MOON NIGHT HIKE

After reading the book Owl Moon, plan to have your own adventure and be a part of the SPD full moon night hike.

T H U R S D AY MARCH

28 N AT I O N A L E A G L E C E N T E R

Join us on a full day trip to the National Eagle Center, situated on the banks of the Upper Mississippi River in Wabasha, MN. Home to rescued bald and golden eagles, the Center’s mission is “connecting people to eagles in nature, history, and cultures.” There will be a live eagle presentation and visit to the eagle observation area for viewing the eagles in the wild over the Mississippi River.

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FA M I L I A R FA C E S CI N DY CARLSON

1.

Cindy is one of the first people that visitors meet when they come to SPD. As the Director of Congregational Life, her gifts for hospitality and welcome help people feel instantly at home.

3.

What are three things on your lifetime to-do list? One of the things on my to-do list is likely to take the rest of my life to accomplish: I would like to organize my family photographs. Many of the photos of my children are prints with negatives.

I also have photos on my phone, in the cloud, and then there are those photos taken during the transition from print to digital. These photos have captured so many wonderful memories and I need to find time to organize and archive them.

Describe when you knew you’d be going into ministry. I didn’t really have an epiphany to pursue a career in ministry as much as I received an invitation to do so.

The second thing on my to-do list would be to learn to knit. My Grandma Sternaman was a gifted knitter, as is my mother. Just the sound of clicking knitting needles makes me smile and think of them.

In the fall of 2000, I met with Pastors David Hoffman and John Hogenson in response to a job posting for a part-time wedding coordinator position at the church.

During our meeting, they presented me with the amazing opportunity to join the staff in a full-time capacity as Pastoral Associate, Lay Ministry & Hospitality.

The job description sounded too good to be true. It would allow me to blend my previous work experiences and skills with my passion for serving at a church. And I have been truly blessed to have served at SPD for the last 18 years.

The third thing on my list would be to travel through Italy. I would love to experience the art, history and architecture of Rome, Venice and Florence.

2.

What’s one thing that people would be surprised to know about you? My training ground for ministry was a 20-year career in the travel/hospitality industry. I was an education major at Gustavus Adolphus College, but during my senior year I discovered the travel incentive industry.

It was a career that spoke to passions and skills of mine, specifically the planning and coordinating of travel programs. It also provided me with wonderful travel opportunities—my favorite destinations include Ireland, Sweden and Hong Kong.

4.

How do you take care of yourself— spiritually, emotionally, and physically—so that you stay healthy in ministry? I am surrounded by wonderful colleagues, who support and encourage one another. Whether in good times or through life’s challenges, as a staff we laugh, eat, pray, worship, cry, support one another and share in meaningful work. Through the years, my family and I have felt the love and support of our congregation, too. I have been blessed that St. Philip the Deacon is not only the place where I work but is my faith community as well.

5.

What are you passionate about right now? I am passionate about hospitality and building community. I believe it is important that people feel welcome at SPD. In my role, I enjoy helping people find connecting points with others and finding opportunities to serve and grow in their faith.

HE IS RISEN INDEED. ALLELUIA! Join us for Easter worship at St. Philip the Deacon FIRST LIGHT OF E ASTER

Saturday, April 20, 5:30 pm E ASTER WORSHIP WITH H O LY C O M M U N I O N

Sunday, April 21, 8:15 am, 9:45 am, and 11:15 am Monday, April 22, 7:00 pm

OBSERVING LENT A S H W E D N E S D AY

March 6 Worship with the Imposition of Ashes Noon, 5:30 pm, 7:00 pm SOUP SUPPERS DURING LENT

Begin March 13 Serving begins at 5:30 pm LENTEN WORSHIP

Wednesdays at 7:00 pm Begins March 13 M A U N D Y T H U R S D AY WORSHIP

April 18, 7:00 pm G O O D F R I D AY

Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Worship at 5:30 pm Worship at 7:00 pm

17205 County Road 6 Plymouth, MN 55447

“All human nature vigorously resists grace because grace changes us and the change is painful.”

FLANNERY O’CONNOR

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