The Gloria Dei GUIDE March 2017 Reformation 500 Lent 2017

Transcription

1 The Gloria Dei GUIDE March 2017 Reformation 500 Lent 2017 This year we celebrate the 500 th anniversary of the Lutheran Reformation. On October 31, 1517 Martin Luther nailed 95 theses to the church door in Wittenberg, igniting a discussion about the gospel that continues to this day. We re still reforming, growing into grace, becoming a people that embody love, mercy, compassion and peace. During Lent, we are called to grow and return to our deepest roots, the love and grace of God. During Lent this year, we ll use some of the resources of our Lutheran tradition to grow forward into a next millennium of living by grace alone, faith alone, and Scripture alone. Sunday Worship This is Most Certainly True Some of the language of the liturgy will come from Luther s Small Catechism. You ll hear echoes of the catechism in the confession, the prayers, and the creed. Each Sunday, we ll use a portion of Martin Luther s explanation to the Apostles Creed as our creed for the morning. It was important for Luther to find language that regular people could understand, bringing this ancient creed to life. His explanations still sound fresh in the 21 st century. We ll also be singing a variety of Luther hymns during the liturgy, even A Mighty Fortress is Our God on the First Sunday in Lent. Listen especially for the Lamb of God, written by Martin Luther s pastor in Wittenberg, Pr. Johannes Bugenhagen, in 1528.

2 Lent 2017 Wednesday Nights During Lent What Does This Mean? What does this mean? Luther asks this question throughout his Small Catechism as a way of teaching the church how to believe. In his day, he worried that regular people didn t know how to make the faith relevant in their daily life. He wrote the catechism to make the gracious love of God come alive in the hearts of the believers. Five hundred years later, it s still a good question, What does this mean? Do these ancient texts still have relevance for today? What do we make of them in the 21 st Century? Is the Small Catechism a quaint relic of the past, or can it still be a guide for our own living faith? Join us on Wednesday nights each week during Lent to explore these questions. Each week, we ll gather at 6:00 p.m. in the Gathering Place to focus on a part of the catechism. Don t worry: No memorization required. Week 1 Ten Commandments with Pastor Javen Week 2 Lord s Prayer with Pastor Lois Week 3 Baptism and Holy Communion with Bishop Patricia Lull Week 4 Apostles Creed with Pastor Bradley Week 5 Augsburg Confession with Pastors Bradley and Lois Lenten Repentance Examining White Privilege Growing From a Church of Privilege to a Multicultural, Antiracism Church Adult Forum, March 5 and 12, 9:30 a.m. Fellowship Hall The council has set a goal for Gloria Dei to combat racism and to acknowledge the privilege that comes from being white in our culture. These two adult forums help us understand privilege and help us begin to confess our complicity in the system. Our speaker, the Reverend Dr. Herbert A. Perkins (Okogyeamon), is the executive director of ASDIC Metamorphosis, an esteemed anti-racism workshop provider, based in St. Paul, Minnesota. ASDIC (Antiracism Study Dialogue Circles) has facilitated more than 150 workshops and dialogue groups with more than 2200 participants from educational, governmental, and religious organizations. Dr. Perkins is a former Roman Catholic monk, a retired college professor in sociology/anthropology, and an ordained United Church of Christ minister. He now goes by the name Okogyeamon, which is a name given to him in Ghana, meaning He who awakens a village in danger. March 5: ACKNOWLEDGING PRIVILEGE: TOWARD A RESTORATIVE MINDSET (ISAIAH 58:12) In this session, taking the predicaments of white privilege into account and how to respond, we will explore the understandings (personal, institutional, systemic), mindset, and attitudes (beliefs, values, feelings, action orientations) required to set things

3 Lent 2017 right, that is, to be restorers of the breach, restorers of the streets to live in. With this, we shall identify what it is we need to do and the tools needed to do what is required. March 12: FROM A CHURCH OF PRIVILEGE TO A MULTICULTURAL, ANTIRACISM CHURCH (ROMANS 12: 2-3) In this session, we extend our understanding of what is required of us to embodying basic elements of becoming a multicultural, antiracist church in the model of the Early Church; that is, not conforming to the model of our post-christian culture and mores but to the ideal of Paul, not abiding according to the divisions given to us (neither Greek or Hebrew, master or slave, male or female). We will seek to identify the obstacles and challenges to our becoming a complete community, by examining and adjusting our structures of thinking and ways of doing what we do, so that we may become a multicultural, antiracist congregation. Organ Committee Update Timothy Strand, Music Director On February 5 th, the Organ Committee gave a presentation at the Adult Forum. This gave us an opportunity to update the congregation on our process and to further educate the congregation about the current state of the organ and our future hopes for its renewal/ replacement. It was delightful to see such a large and engaged attendance at this forum which I think speaks well of the congregation s interest and passion surrounding music in worship and how the pipe organ plays a prominent role in our robust congregational singing and music program. We were delighted to welcome our artistic consultant, Dr. Gregory Peterson of Luther College to share some thoughts and observations with us. He has made a very thorough assessment of our current instrument and has wonderful skills to guide us in the process of imagining the wonderful opportunities that could be opened to us with a renewed, rebuilt and expanded instrument in a more acoustically favorable placement. This would also lead to the opportunity to reimagine the configuration and adaptability of the chancel area, which is an exciting prospect. The organ committee is still in the process of visiting organ installations and seeing and hearing the work of some wonderful organ builders. It also gives us the opportunity to see how some sanctuaries have been renewed and refreshed with the presence of a new organ installation and how this has actually enhanced the beauty and functionality of their worship spaces. Many have longed to see an organ of great beauty grace our beautiful sanctuary for many years. Our process is long and arduous and will eventually be dependent on the financial feasibility. To that end, one or two large gifts could accelerate the process and make the project possible. We hope to bring many in the congregation along in our excitement of what a new and renewed organ could bring to future generations of worshipers at Gloria Dei. 3

4 Women of Gloria Dei Events Lenten Prayer Breakfast with Pastor Javen Swanson "Let Us Be Shaped by the Potter's Hand" Saturday, March 11, 2017 at 9:30 am Mendakota Country Club, 2075 Mendakota Dr, Mendota Heights All women of Gloria Dei are invited to a Lenten Prayer Breakfast to enhance your Lenten season in this Reformation anniversary year. Enjoy conversations with old and new friends over a delicious plated breakfast. We then welcome Pastor Javen, who will lead us in prayer and a Lenten Bible study of Isaiah 64:8, the Women of Gloria Dei Bible verse theme. Come listen and talk about how this Scripture and overall theme relates to your Lenten discipline and faith journey. Invite a friend or two to join you and introduce them to this warm fellowship and thoughtful discussion. Check-in begins at 9:00 am. The cost is $15.00 at the door, with payment by cash or a check made out to Elaine Jacobson, our hostess. Guaranteed reservations are a must we are charged for all submitted reservations. Reservation registration through March 8 is available at the Women of Gloria Dei web site or call Margy Sather Peterson, What could be more refreshing during the last days of winter than a spiritual study, being together, and looking out over the club's scenic landscape? Please join us! Dates for Women of Gloria Dei Circle Meetings in March Thurs., Mar. 9: Mon., Mar. 13: Thurs., Mar. 16: Fri., Mar. 17: Phoebe Julia, Miriam Mary Ruth Mother/Daughter/Friend Tea WOGD Annual Business Meeting Program: "Faith Spaces: Zendoodling with Color" Saturday, April 29, 2017 at 11:00 am

5 1+1 One Monetary Donation + One Food Item For more than 30 years, the Greater Minneapolis Council of Churches has coordinated the Minnesota FoodShare March Campaign, the annual grassroots food and fund drive that provides more than half the food distributed by 300 food shelves throughout the state. It is the only annual statewide food and fund drive of its kind in Minnesota. During the month of March, food shelves come together with congregations, businesses, community groups, and others to restock food supplies to help feed our neighbors in need. At this same time, Minnesota FoodShare solicits donations from corporate sponsors, congregations, and individuals for its Food Fund, 100% of which is given to food shelves who participate in the Minnesota FoodShare March Campaign. Last year the campaign raised more than 12 million pounds and dollars for Minnesota s food shelves. At Gloria Dei, our Minnesota FoodShare March Campaign benefits our local food shelf, Francis Basket. This year, we are focusing on raising money. Food shelves can stretch cash donations much further than donations of food because of their access to discount products and programs. This year, consider making a 1+1 Donation: One monetary donation + one food item. One monetary donation: Make a contribution to support Francis Basket during our second offering on the third Sunday of the month, March 19 th. Won t be in church that Sunday? No problem. You can support the second offering electronically anytime during the month of March by going to or by using the Offering Cards located in the pews. We have a goal of collecting $4,000 during the month of March. One food item: Consider donating one item on the list of most-needed items at Francis Basket: Place your donations in the red barrel near the entrance. We will have a special procession of food donations during our second offering on Sunday, March 19 th. 5

6 Families of Faith Preschool* Grade 4 Vacation Bible School: VBS Registration is now open! In Maker Fun Factory, kids discover they are lovingly crafted by God! The daily Bible point is reinforced through Bible adventures, key Bible verses, songs, snacks, and handson explorations that help children know they were created by God and built for a purpose! Each day is interactive, faith-filled, and fun! June 19, 20, 21, and 22. Registration runs from March 1 through April 30 or until classes are full. Cost: $ scholarships are available. Registration Link (*Must be 4 years old by 9/1/17.) Grades 5-6 Vacation Bible School: Students who have completed fifth and sixth grade are welcome to join Maker Fun Factory as a junior leader. This program trains our newest leaders to take on more responsibility as a witness to the Gospel. Students will be leading our opening and closing, helping in the kitchen, and working with our outreach program. In addition, this group will have age appropriate activities for their own faith development around the theme Created by God! Built for a Purpose! June 19, 20, 21, 22. Cost: $20.00 scholarships are available. Registration runs from March 1 through April 30. Registration Link

7 Adults Needed for 2017 VBS June 19, 20, 21, 22 Our goal is to give 130 children a fun and meaningful VBS! We need a few more adults (18 years or older) who are ready to make a difference in the hearts of children this summer! Adult Teachers - get to lead activities in our rotation model. All curriculum, training, and materials are provided. Let your cup overflow and be a part of our joy-filled adventure! Contact kidsministry@gloriadeistpaul.org Adult Crew Managers get to oversee a crew of children. Crew Managers welcome their crew and lead them to the different rotations throughout the morning. Older youth assist with responsibilities. No preparation is needed - just your love for Jesus and a desire to share your faith with children. Training will be provided. Contact kidsministry@gloriadeistpaul.org Grades 4-9: Lake Wapogasset Lutheran Bible Camp August 6-11: For over 60 years Camp Wapo has provided a place for youth to be challenged and inspired to grow in their relationship with God. Fun and fellowship include swimming, kayaking, canoeing, slip-n-slide, capture the flag, carpet ball, noodle hockey, camp songs, Masterpiece Skit Night and so much more. Plus, your children will experience the Bible, Worship, and the Holy Spirit like never before. It s like a giant VBS sleepover with cabins, cool counselors, and a lake. HERE IS THE GLORIA DEI LINK FOR 2017: Invite a friend and register today! Scholarships are available through the camp. Make faith development a part of your child s summer. 7

8 A Time of Renewal Timothy Strand, Music Director After 35 years of playing and directing choirs in churches, I am thrilled to be granted my first sabbatical! Now that I m into my eighth year as Director of Music Ministry at Gloria Dei, I am eligible for this time of renewal and rest. I m so excited to have this great time of Sabbath to relax, renew energies, travel, and enjoy some freedom in my schedule. My sabbatical will begin the day after Easter, April 17th and will last for three months until July 17 th. I plan to do a number of things during my sabbatical. First of all, you all know how much I enjoy travel. I plan to take two trips to Europe. The first to Norway and Sweden to visit relatives and friends and see some new places! I plan to be in Norway for Syttende Mai, Norwegian Independence Day and hope to get in on some wonderful concerts while their concert season is still in full force. My second trip to Europe will be with a friend to Berlin, Leipzig and some of the Luther sites, where I ve never been before! We hope to also add on a little time in Denmark, where I haven t visited since 1982! For the learning portion of my sabbatical time, I will be taking some composition coaching with Steve Heitzeg, a Gustavus classmate of mine and Emmy award winning composer whose compositions have been performed by orchestras all over the world. He will help guide me as I work on a liturgy for Gloria Dei scored for piano, soprano sax and cello. I hope to do much of this composing at the cabin I am fortunate to share with friends in Wisconsin. To actually have extended rest in the beauty of nature at the cabin will be a true gift. Besides travel and rest and composition, the other thing I hope to accomplish is attention to many long overlooked projects at my home. After 27 years in the same house, there is much to do and it will be so great to have some time to actually dig into some of these overwhelming jobs! This might not qualify under rest, but it will be renewing! I am grateful to Gloria Dei for this chance to slow down and rest. As many of you know, the pace at Gloria Dei can be pretty busy throughout the year. Many thanks to the pastors, staff and church council for supporting me in this sabbatical. I hope to return with new energy, fresh perspective and gratitude for serving the people of God in this special place called Gloria Dei

9 Financial Update By Jeanne Hanson, Administrator What is the Lutheran Social Service Immersion Event? Join us for a first ever Gloria Dei LSS-MN Immersion Event. We will learn more about LSS s programs and services for refugees, homeless youth, and senior adults; have lunch with the Phillips neighborhood s diverse residents; complete a service project; and process the experience together. Thursday, March 9, 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Carpool leaves Gloria Dei at 8:45 a.m. To register or ask questions, please contact Ann Niedringhaus, robannrbe@gmail.com, New Arrival Ministry Gloria Dei has recently started a new ministry for the new children who come into our congregational family. Children arrive into our families in different ways, at different ages and aren't always the first. We would love to help welcome your new child into your life and our church with some love and meals. Please contact Heidi Robole if you or another member you know is expecting a child to arrive into their family. You can reach Heidi by phone at or at heidi.robole@gmail.com. Financial Update Jeanne Hanson, Administrator Gloria Dei Lutheran Church 700 Snelling Avenue South St. Paul, MN By God s grace, we are called to be a caring, healing and welcoming community who proclaim and celebrate the love of Jesus Christ, live as God s servants and seek justice for all people. Capital Fund Information Contributions Year to Date $ 32,918 Monthly mortgage payments $ 18,752 Capital Improvement Costs Year-to-Date $ 0 Balance in Capital Accounts January 31, 2017 $ 277,374 Mortgage Balance January 31, 2017 $2,964,816 FINANCIAL UPDATE Operating Information January 31, 2017 Total offerings $ 113,990 Ahead (Behind) ($ 6) Total Income $ 131,795 Total Expenses $ 112,934 Net for Month $ 23,261 Total YTD Offerings $ 113,990 Ahead (Behind) ($ 6) Total YTD Income $ 131,795 Total YTD Expenses $ 112,934 Net for Current Year $ 23,261 9