Renewed in the Resurrection
Kris D. H. Ferkin, Senior Interim Pastor
Dear Brothers and Sisters in the light of the Risen One, Spring greetings to all of you. For those of us in climates now emerging from the cold of winter, it’s time to reconnect with neighbors who have been in hibernation, to reconnect the grill, and reconnect the garden hose. It’s a time to rediscover your kids’ rollerblades, baseball gloves, bike helmets, golf clubs, and Frisbees, and to dust off the picnic benches along with everything else that went missing last November. The other day, I saw some raking going on—ah, spring is in the air.
With each change of season outside, sometimes
there are changes inside. St. Olaf Lutheran is moving into one of those changes of its own this spring. The Easter season will arrive with the warming weather and the love of God through the Risen One, Jesus the Son. In this season of reflection on what was, to see what is, and to move forward to what is to come, we are a community gathered around God’s Word and Sacraments, answering God’s call here in this place.
Perhaps the theme this year is reconnecting, recharging, rediscovering, reanimating, realigning, and ultimately living as post-Easter people in the Resurrection.
The congregation will continue to explore what God is calling us to do and be, both as groups and as individuals. The congregation will continue to reflect on the many experiences—the good and the challenging—that we have had as various
groups, teams, committees, task forces, ministries, and personally in our faith journeys. You are invited to partake in the many activities of reflection and discernment in the months to come as we continue the transition phase into the Call Process.
In April, we will be offering the Faith-Lead Video Series, “How to Take Your Next Faithful Steps,” on Sundays between services at church.
As you journey together, you will come to realize that God’s presence has been with you and continues to be with you, guiding you as the congregation moves forward. You will reflect on how these experiences with one another and encounters with God have been preparing you for things you would have never imagined. The path from there to here—and there again—may not all make sense in the moment you are living through it; you may be emotionally tired, physically not where you would like
to be or used to be, or spiritually dry and yearning for more. But wherever you are on the path, you have a God who continues to give a fresh start each day, week, month, and year through the continued pouring out of love, grace, and mercy. You have a God who is faithful, who promises to give you what you need when you ask, and who provides for you in your time of need.
I will be continually praying for you as you dedicate yourselves to answering the call of reflection, reanimating, realigning, reconnecting, and lastly, recommitting yourselves to sharing the life-changing love and grace of Jesus Christ with the world.
In the Light of the Resurrection,
Pr. Kris D. H. Ferkin
Sunday School & Youth Activities
Lyn Meany, Director of Children, Youth, and Family Ministries
In Sunday School, we explored the stories of Simon and Anna meeting Jesus, how the disciples were called, and the significance of the Ten Commandments. The loss of Brian has challenged us to be more creative in introducing classic Bible music. He is deeply missed—especially by the children.
Our Confirmation program recently completed units on the Lord’s Prayer and Holy Baptism and is now beginning our study of Holy Communion. About 26 students participate in classes, and most also attend our youth group on alternating nights. January was filled with fun activities, including pickleball, basketball, a game night, and an Uno tournament.
Looking ahead to Lent, we will be engaging in four service projects that mentors and students will complete together. Life with youth is loud with laughter, intense with curiosity, and rich with companionship. Every Wednesday, we close our time together with the Lord’s Prayer, a moment that brings us all into reflection and unity.
Lenten Mentorship & Service Projects
During Lent, we will host five mentor conversation nights following our 6:00 PM church service. Each evening, 26 students and their mentors will collaborate on five service projects, creating meaningful care packages for those in need. These projects serve as a reminder of how even the smallest acts of kindness can make a profound difference in someone’s life. As we pack the boxes, we engage in prayer, discussion, and reflection on the impact of our actions.
Easter Celebration – March 30th
On March 30th, during our regular Sunday School time, we invite families to join us for our annual Easter Celebration. This interactive event will include crafts and activities that help us walk through the path Jesus followed to Easter. All families are welcome, and registration is available on our website. It’s a fast-paced, engaging event with something for everyone!
Serving Our Community: Meals & Little Pantries
Our commitment to serving others continues through our partnership with the Salvation Army. Each month, we prepare and serve two meals for 100 people, providing much-needed nourishment to those in our community. In addition, we remain dedicated to supporting the Little Pantries, offering food and supplies to those facing hardship.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who has donated meat, contributed ingredients, and helped prepare meals. Your generosity and compassion are truly commendable, and your efforts make a real difference in the lives of many.
Updates from The Transition Team
The Transition Task Force has been meeting regularly. The task force is asking each member to complete four brief surveys throughout February and March as follows:
There are multiple ways to submit these surveys; however, we ask that each member complete only one survey per person for each of the five (5) listed topics. Surveys are available electronically through the website or Holy Ole; paper forms are located in the church narthex by the Gallery Wall; and if anyone needs a set of the questions mailed to them, please contact the church office.
Biweekly temple talks have been given by numerous team members, and articles are being placed weekly in the Holy Ole. In addition, transition team members are greeting the congregation prior to each church service and are also available during coffee hour. A survey is also being gathered from a variety of members throughout the Austin community. We are trying to get as much input from the congregation as possible!
MARK YOUR CALENDAR – The transition team will provide a presentation of findings on Sunday, March 30, while also distributing the final survey request. All of the data is being gathered to complete the Ministry Site Profile (MSP), which will be presented to the SOLC Council on April 15 and used by the Call Committee.
Please feel free to reach out to any of the Transition Task Force team members as follows:
Alms
Souper Sunday: Spreading Warmth & Joy
On December 8, we held our annual Souper Sunday event, bringing warmth and holiday cheer to 42 St. Olaf members who are no longer able to worship with us in person. A dedicated team of volunteers delivered homemade soup and Christmas cookies, ensuring that our homebound members felt remembered and cherished.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who contributed—whether by donating supplies, preparing food, or making personal deliveries. Your kindness and generosity made this event truly special.
A special thank you to Barley’s Restaurant for their generous donation of four gallons of delicious soup! It’s always a joy to serve others, and we are grateful for the opportunity to share warmth, love, and community through this tradition.
Sharon
St. Olaf Wee Learning Center Preschool Open House
Lynsey O’Donnell Wee Learning Center Director
St. Olaf Wee Learning Center is excited to invite you to our Preschool Open House! This is a wonderful opportunity for parents and families to explore our warm, nurturing environment where your child can thrive.
Date: Wednesday, March 6
Time: Choose between 12:30 – 2:30 PM or 4:00 – 5:30 PM (come-and-go style)
How to register: Stop by the office to pick up a form or call the office for more information.
Come meet our dedicated teachers, tour our classrooms, and learn more about our engaging curriculum designed to inspire creativity, curiosity, and a lifelong love of learning.
We look forward to seeing you there and sharing how St. Olaf Wee Learning Center can be a part of your child’s early development!
For more information, contact us at 507-4336463.
Registration is currently OPEN for current/ former families and for SOLC Church members.
We can’t wait to welcome you!
Gifts & Memorials
Backpackers
IMO Chuck & Mary Moline
Given by Stephanie Grotbo
Building
IMO Andrew Anhorn
Given by Randall & Wendy Kramer, Gayle & Lavonne Bergstrom, and Marie Cano
Decorating
IMO Mary Anderson
Given by Darrell & Diane Ingvaldson
Endowment
IMO Carol Bulson and Glenn Bakke
Given by Paul & Joanne Worlein, Darlys Smith, David & Diane Dammen, and Janice Krambeer
Foundation
IMO Carol Bulson & Glenn Bakke, Bob Koch, Glenn Mair, Harry & Ruby Larson, Joel Gullickson, and Mary Moline
Given by Darlene Koch, Dwight Larson, Daniel & Carla Conradt, Thomas & Gwendolyn Morem, Renae Bakke, Barbara Mair, and James & Jeanine Nelson
General
IMO Carol Bulson, David & Peggy Tollefson, Enid Thompson, Glenn Bakke, Larry Diggins, Mary Anderson, Mary Moline, & Robert Koch
Given by James & Mary Herrick, Janet Lees, Jeanette Ramseth, Jim Braaten, John & Janet Westendorf, Judith Bungum, Karen & Linda Baier, Karen Herreid, Keith & Sharon Barnes, Kenneth & Doris Hagen, Kyle & Kersten Tollefson, Larry & Joyce Crowe, Larry & Sherry Andersen, Lawrence & Joyce Crowe, Lois Gunderson, Lora Lee Bauer, Lowell & Gail Sim, Michael & Karen Lewis, Michael Ruzek, Nancy Allen, Neal & Cindy Grotsun, Norma Brown, Page Petersen, Richard & Judith Bergen, Robert & Karen Pedersen, Ronald & Alice Anderson, Rose Folken, Sarah Shaw, Steve & Barb Kime, Steve & Cheryl Greenman, Steve Bjoraker, Tamara Underwood, Friends & Family, Dave & Mary Crandall, David & Brenda Raffelson, David & Kathy Bjorge, David & Mary Jo Swoboda, Deanna Ashley, Dennis & Joy Blaser, Dianne Barrett, Esther Antonisen, Dana & Suzanne Miller,
Daniel & Rebecca Astrup, Darlene Koch & Family, Cheryl Dunlap, Collen & Bob Weimer, Craig Johnson, Barbara Mair
Music
IMO Carol Bulson
Given by Darrell & Diane Ingvaldson
Our Home
IMO Carol Bulson, Glenn Bakke, Larry Diggins, Teckla Baskin,
Given by James Braaten, Duane Dahlback, Robert & Susan Petersen, Darlene Aakre, Keith and Carolyn Eilertson, Sharron Mills, Ronald & Lois Peters, Larry & Sherry Andersen, Darlene Koch, Paul & Joanne Worlein, Walt & Sharon Alms, Alan & Alice Holst, and Ron & Lois Peters
Prayer Shawls
IMO Glenn Bakke
Given by Judith Bungum
Radio
IMO Glenn Bakke
Given by Deanna Bakke, Mr & Mrs Raymond Kyllo, and Arthur & Sharon Nott
WLC
IMO Glenn Bakke
Given by Frank & Faye Learn
March 5, 2025: Ash Wednesday
A Glance Ahead
March 30, 2025: Easter Celebration | 9:30 a.m.
April 13, 2025: Palm Sunday Worship | 8:15 a.m. + 10:45 a.m.
April 16, 2025: First Communion Workshop from 5 p.m. (grades 3-6)
April 17, 2025: Maundy Thursday Worship at 6 p.m.
April 18, 2025: Good Friday - Worship with Stripping of the Altar 6 p.m.
April 20, 2025: Easter Sunday Worship at 8:15 a.m. + 10:45 a.m.
June 8, 2025: Baccalaureate Worship for Graduating Seniors at 10:45 a.m.
Check us out on our social media pages!
WORSHIP WITH US!
Sundays In-Person: 8:15 a.m. & 10:45 a.m.
Online: 8:15 a.m.
Radio Broadcast 99.9 FM: 10:45 a.m.
St. Olaf Staff
Pastor Kris D. H. Ferkin
Interim Senior Pastor pastorkris@solc.org
/stolafchurch
@stolaflutheranchurchELCA
@stolaflutheran
Sign up for our weekly Holy Ole e-newsletter by visiting www.solc.org/subscribe
Eric Buntrock Business Administrator ericmb@solc.org
Lyn Meany Director of Children, Youth, and Family Ministries lynm@solc.org
Mark Metcalf Custodian markm@solc.org
Sarv Mithaqiyan Communications Coordinator sarv@solc.org