Epistle. Mission Statement

Transcription

1 FIRST ENGLISH AND BETHANY LUTHERAN CHURCHES 17 MAIN ST. NW PO BOX 189 MENAHGA, MN Epistle PHONE: FAX: PARSONAGE: PASTOR S PADREBRUER@WCTA.NET FIRST ENLGISH LUTHERAN CHURCH APRIL 22, 2009 BETHANY LUTHERAN CHURCH STAFF PASTOR STEVE BRUER PARISH SECRETARY LISA DORMANEN CUSTODIAN CLAYTON ELLINGSON FIRST ENGLISH COUNCIL PRESIDENT ROGER HOLLERUD BETHANY COUNCIL PRESIDENT DAVE MICKELSON FIRST ENGLISH ORGANIST BARBARA AHL BETHANY ORGANIST SHIRLEY ANDERSON SANDI MICKELSON Weekly Worship Schedule At First English Lutheran Worship: 8:30 a.m. Coffee Fellowship Adult Bible Study and Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Mission Statement Weekly Worship Schedule At Bethany Lutheran Worship 10:30 a.m. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. 2nd and 4th Sundays Visit Our Website at: First English and Bethany churches are a caring, inclusive Christian Community dedicated to Word and Sacrament ministry; Growing in Christ; Sharing the faith; Serving our neighbors; and Supporting each other.

2 Page 2 Pastor s Perspective Easter Greetings O Favored Ones of God, As we continue in this season of Easter, the theme of creation is newness. Everything going on around us seems to be new or coming together again; new flower blossoms, new grass, new leaves, new baby animals, and new hopes for our favorite baseball teams. (Go Twins!!) As I write my article for this newsletter, the sun is shining brightly through my office window, the temps outside are a bit on the chilly side (but bearable) and on the rise, and it s nice and warm where I am sitting. I m listening to the Tuesday morning Bible study folks singing great songs of praise and celebration during this special time of the year. I had the opportunity to greet those who have been down south for the winter but have now returned. Everything is coming together again. That s what Easter is really about! This is a time of newness when everything which seemed to be coming apart as Jesus was crucified is now coming together again. This theme of newness is also prevalent in our lives of faith as we celebrate the chief festival of the Christian year, Easter. At Easter, we celebrate not just newness, but the New Creation that was raised through the resurrection of Christ. On that Easter morning, Christ was raised and the Glory of God spilled forth from him and enveloped the whole world. God wasn t interested in a simple resuscitation, but in a resurrection, a new creation, a coming together again, a final victory over the powers of evil and death. Today, we live in the reality that we are a part of this New Creation. This means some wonderful things. It means that we are forgiven of our sins, it means that we are living in a loving relationship with God, and it means that in our own lives God brings new life out of our suffering and death. Living as a part of this New Creation also means that we are free to follow God and live lives of obedience to Him. This freedom is good, but challenging news, as it means that we are free to serve all just as God served us. We are free to challenge existing laws like Martin Luther King Jr., we are free to give up worldly possessions to serve the poor like Mother Theresa, and we are free to live in community with each other just as the earliest Christians did. Because we are a New Creation, we are ultimately given freedom from sin and the power to live as Children of God. So, as we live in the season of Easter, we will be Epistle reminded of the newness of life by the sights, smells, and noises that surround and even overwhelm us. Let these new things remind us that we are indeed new, a New Creation in Christ. A New Creation that has been given the gift of new life and a New Creation through whom God actively brings new life to all of creation. Pastor Steve Ascension Many Christian churches will celebrate Ascension Day on (or near) May 21, which is 40 days after Easter. Theologian Friedemann Hebart explained Christ s Ascension this way: When Jesus work on Earth was done, he took leave of his disciples and went to be with his Father. A time for sad farewells, one might think, Yet the church celebrates the Ascension with special joy. What is the reason for joy when Jesus leaves his people? The Ascension is not the end of Jesus work, but a new beginning! How could Jesus ever leave us alone? Because he has gone to be Lord of the universe, he can continue his work of life and love among us, too. His work was not just a short episode in Galilee, In the person of the Holy Spirit, the same Lord is present among us, still revealing the Father s loving heart, so that we, too, can

3 Page 3 PARISH REPORT Thank you for the Memorials. In Memory of Norma Neitzke, from Patsy Sumner, Edgar & Polly Jahnke, Carol Alm, Lyle & Jeannette Mickelson, Mary & Dewy Fingalson, Dennis & Rosie Anderson, Fred & Lois Corwin. In Memory of Lila Suvanto, from Dennis & Rosemarie Anderson, Irene Nordby, Frances Torma, Jerry & Almira LaPitza WELCA of First English has provided a sign up sheet, posted on the rolling bulletin board, for the opportunity to share flowers for the Altar. This opportunity can be in honor or memory of a loved one or special event or just because. During the gardening season, we encourage you to share your fresh cut flowers as well. Bell Choir s final rehearsal is April 29th. Performing on Sunday May 3rd - My Lord, What a Morning. Vocal Choir will have their final rehearsal on May 6th with performance on May 10th. FIRST ENGLISH 4/1 attendance 65 Offering $ /5 100 General Building Act for Messiah Food Shelf $ /9 46 Offering $ /10 92 attendance 4/ General Building $ /19 84 General Building $ BETHANY Attendance 4/5 60 Offering Memorials / /12 82 Offering World Hunger /19 26 General World Hunger WORLD HUNGER ENVELOPES World Hunger Envelopes can be found on the round table in the fellowship area. Pick them up from there to make your contribution to World Hunger Sponsor Our Sunday Bulletins Remember to sign up to sponsor the bulletins on a given Sunday. The sheet is on the rolling bulletin board at First English and on the kitchen counter at Bethany. The cost is $ This can be in honor of someone or event, in memory of, or just because. Please sign up to help offset the cost of the

4 Page 4 Epistle Parish Report continued: 2nd Annual First English Auction HELP! We need your help to obtain auction items. Look around your home and garage to see if there are items to donate to the sale. Items can be brought to the church. Items needed are craft items, baked goods, canned goods, household and garden tools and plants. Mark your calendar May 3rd, The Women of First English will be selling a BBQ lunch at the Auction. They would appreciate any donations toward the food. Maybe this is a way that you can help. You can bring donations to the church office or give to the women on Sunday. Thanks! Hope to see you there! If you are interested in joining or if you know of someone who may be interested in Joining First English or Bethany. Contact the church office or Pastor Steve before May 3rd. Honor your Mother this Mother s Day with an Orchid. The cost is $4.00, order by May 3rd by contacting the church office of Pastor Steve!! Need a ride to church? Call the church office by Friday 2:30 p.m. we will arrange for you to be picked up on Sunday morning! SCHMOLLS Luke & Kristina are in Minnesota, they continue to be full-time staff with Campus Synod Assembly NW MN Synod is holding their 2009 Synod Assembly, May at Concordia College in Moorhead, MN. First English delegate is Marlene Schiotz and Bethany s delegates are Jane & Matt Mattick and Kris & Mark Spadgenske and Pastor Steve. Please help me!! I ve been arrested and will be put in jail for the Muscular Dystrophy Association s (MDA) Lock-Up. The warrant for my arrest was issued because others have told officials that I have a Big Heart!! I will go to jail on Thursday, May 21 st at noon. I need each of you to help bail me out. All donations to bail will go directly to MDA so they can continue to help folks with neuromuscular disease in our area! Please see me or Lisa in the church office to give your donation for my bail!! All monies will be greatly appreciated by me and so many others!!! Pastor Steve Crusade for Christ. Nothing has changed about their position as missionaries supported by a team of ministry partners like you. Your partnership and investment is fundamental for them to continue in full-time ministry. Know that you are appreciated!

5 Page 5 Remember in Prayer Ken Augst Tom Wagner Susan Gullekson Fred Hedlund Sue Johnson Adam Bunnell Charlie Hasbargen Karen Kissell Betty Samuelson Fern Jacobson Wade Salo Myrtle Tangen Robert Jannusch Steve Pulju Einard Koskiniemi Lenore Maaninga Lori Tomperi Harriet Newgard Bill Haas Marion Hanson Kim Rasmussen Karie Howe Maza Ferguson Marvin Anderson Frank Schilling Lyla Burkman Paige Downy Tammy Yliniemi Verna Allebach Debbie Carlson Spring Maninga LaVonne Hammerbeck Margaret (Danny) Yliniemi Keith Larson (Lucille Erickson s brother-in law) Those living in Fargo/ Moorhead and surrounding area dealing with flood and for all the workers. All our Military You are invited to celebrate the graduation of Leana Jane Bruer Commencement Ceremony At Menahga High School Friday May 22, 7:00pm Menahga High School Gymnasium PLEASE JOIN ME TO CELEBRATE SATURDAY MAY 23, AM 3 PM AT MY HOME 120 BALSAM AVE. NW

6 Page 6 Epistle FIRST ENGLISH USHERS May 3 - Ray and Joyce Holzworth May 10 Youth BETHANY USHERS Daniel Etter Dave Etter BETHANY READERS May 3 - Curtis Hasbargen May 10 - Evelyn Meech May 17 - Craig Thompson May 24 - Diane Mickelson May 31 - Dave Etter BETHANY COMMUNION May 3 - Ron Munger May 17 - Jeanette Mickelson... even as the Son of man came not to be served but to serve. Matthew 20:28 We serve because Christ served. FIRST ENGLISH COMMUNION May 3 Server - Dianne Schilling Communion Helper Nick Meyer Setup/Cleanup - Millie Hendrickson and Linda West May 17 Server Barb Schleicher Communion Helper - Kody Kocurek Setup/Cleanup - Jane Bruer and Barb Schleicher May 17 - Jane Bruer Mavis Mattila May 24 - Clayton Ellingson Roger Henstorf May 31 - Kevin Kocurek Ralph Cox GREETERS AT F.E. May 3 - Ray & Joyce Holzworth May 10-2nd thru 4th grade May 17 Ron & Joy Beck May 24 Keith & Sam Kadereit May 31 - Jerry & Almira LaPitz FIRST ENGLISH READERS May 3 - Carol Mortenson May 10 - Youth May 17 Mark Hepokoski May 24 - Joyce Holzworth May 31 Rodney Allebach ACOLYTES Bradi Carlson Allyson Ohlgren COUNTERS AT F.E. May 3 - Marlene - Marie H. May 10 - LaVerna - Phyllis May 17 - Marie S. - Clayton May 24 - Brian - Kyle May 31 - Marlene - Marie H.

7 Page 7 First English Lutheran Church Council Meeting April 14, 2009 Members Present: Roger H., Lynn L., Dick D., Marie S., Joe M., Marie H., and Pastor Steve. Absent: Clair M., Allison M., Mike S., Keith K. Meeting called to order by Pres. Roger H. at 7:00 p.m. Pastor Steve led devotions - In Healthy Congregations Secretary s report was read and a motion by Dick D. to approve as read with a second by Marie S. Motion carried. Treasurer s Report - About $1100 in expenses were paid in March. The first quarter is close to our proposed budget. Motion to accept treas. Report was made by Lynn L. with a second by Dick D. Motion carried. Committee Reports: Finance: No further report Worship: Dick is trying to recruit more members to serve on his committee. His list of ideas will be addressed at a later date. Social Ministry: No meeting has been held, but will have one next month. About 102 lbs. of food was donated to the food shelf. As the need is great, any donations are welcome in the coming months. Youth: Kids Against Hunger will be held this coming Sunday after church. A mandatory meeting for LYO and parents will be this coming Wednesday for the 16 kids and 4 adults going to New Orleans. Building/Grounds: A walk through with our Insurance company will be held April 22. As Lynn L. is using the basement for her class, she requested garbage cans. Joe will get them for her. Education: March Madness was fun for the kids. They will be getting together to plan for Mother s Day and the last day of Sunday school. Evangelism: A need for volunteers to drive people to appointments/shopping was discussed. A new Tim &n Talent sheet will be issued in May. Stewardship: No Report Pastor: A leader for Sr. High Youth Education is needed. Our finances are improving. Old Business: 1. Discussion was held on the continuance of the Stewardship pamphlet. At this time, we will continue. 2. Auction will be May 3 - We need a listing of donations ASAP. First English Council Meeting Continued on next page...

8 Page 8 Epistle 3. Lynn L. reported that Dawn Rossbach is unable to do the painting for our time change on our church sign. She contacted Engle Signs in Park Rapids and he examined the sign and discovered they are not painted but are vinyl letters. He would be able to do the job for approximately $45 -$55. A motion by Dick D. to have Engle Signs to do the job, not to exceed $75 was made with a second by Marie S. Motion carried. New Business: 1. Discussion for church cleaning was held and Dick D. made a motion to hold Spring Cleaning May 17th after church, with a second by Lynn L. Motion carried. 2. Marlene Schiotz and Pastor Steve will be attending the Synod Assembly. Motion to give $50 offering was made by Dick D. and a second by Lynn L. Motion carried. 3. Pastor Steve presented a full page advertisement that would run in a booklet in the Park Rapids Enterprise and also in high traffic areas such as area business. This would feature both Bethany and First English. The cost would be $75 to be split by both churches. A motion was made by Marie S. to approve the advertisement with a second by Joe M. Motion carried. 4. Lynn L. inquired about electronic money transfers. Some confusion about this was discussed, so further inquiries will be made and presented next month. 5. A new member Sunday will be held May 3rd. 6. Joline Floyd has been working on our website. It is Motion to adjourn made by Marie S. and seconded by Lynn L. Closed with the Lord s Prayer Respectfully Submitted, Marie Henstorf FE Council Meeting continued... PENTECOST On May 31, Christians around the world will celebrate the Day of Pentecost. It s often remembered as the church s birthday. Before Jesus ascended into heaven, he promised that the Holy Spirit would come upon those who believed in his resurrection. Three thousand people were gathered in Jerusalem when the Spirit came upon them. They were so touched by the Holy spirit that they began to worship regularly, especially on Sundays, the day of Christ s resurrection. To symbolize the tongues, as of fire: (Acts 2:3, NRSV) that came upon the people at Pentecost, liturgical churches display the color red in their worship services on Pentecost Sunday. May people attending worship wear red on that day.

9 Page GRADUATES The congregations of First English and Bethany are very proud of our graduating seniors. This year is no different. Those graduating will be honored at the worship service on Sunday, May 17 th. A reception for the graduates will follow the worship services at First English. The graduates of First English are: Leana Bruer Mitch Melander Vanessa Burkman Kati Neisess Cassandra Carlson Lauren Ohlgren Brock Clements Shaylah Stomberg Andy Floyd Paige Tomperi Brady Yrjo The graduat e of Bethany is: Reception prior to the worship service. Craig Thompson A Baccalaureate Service for all the graduates, their parents, and families & friends will be held on Sunday, May 17 th at Assembly of God starting at 6:00 pm! Congratulations to all of our 2008 High School senior graduates. God s blessings go with you into the future. SATURDAY May 2nd, pm WOLF LAKE LIONS HALL

10 Page 10 Epistle WOMEN OF FIRST ENGLISH AND BETHANY QUILTING Wednesdays 9:00 am At First English 1:00 pm At Bethany Women of First English Executive Board Meeting Next Meeting Thursday, May 21st at 4:00 pm. ANNA Meets: Mon. 5/4, 10:00 am WSM CIRCLE SCHEDULE REBECCA SARAH Meets: Tue. 5/5. Meets: Tues. 5/12 6:30 pm 1:30 pm Hostess: Hostess: Jan Mickelson Lesson: Lesson: Marlene Schiotz Lois Peterson ESTHER Meets: Thurs. 5/14 1:30 pm Hostess: Evelyn Meech Lesson: Evelyn Meech Parish Partner Group #3 Parish Partner group #3 will be contacting the greeters and servers for coffee hour during the month of May. Corrine Neisess and Norma Dissmore are the leaders. ALTAR GUILD MEMBERS Jane Bruer, Millie Hedrickson, Deb Madsen, Karen Petterson, Barb Schleicher, Linda West. FOR MAY AT BETHANY Carol Ristinen, Josie Peterson BETHANY CHURCH CLEANING-MAY Emogene Etter, Cindy Etter, Beverly Trimble, Jeannette Mickelson FOR MAY AT FIRST ENGLISH

11 Page 11 FIRST ENGLISH WOMEN S EXECUTIVE BOARD MEETING Thursday, March 19, 2009 Marlene opened with prayer. Treasurer s report was read and approved. Old Business: Discussion was held on the Vicki Marthaler program on April 27. Three desserts from each circle will be needed. Individual members will be called by circle members. The speaker s fee will be taken from the Educational Fund. New Business: Spring Cluster meeting will be held at Our Saviors in Sebeka, on April 20. There will be a church auction on May 3. WELCA will serve lunch from 11:30 to 1:00, with bars and coffee available later. Discussion was held on possibly having a bake sale that day also. Social Ministry will donate to the quilting fund to buy the material needed for the senior quilts. The meeting was closed with the Lord s Prayer. Submitted by: Phyllis Leritz for Lucille Erickson FIRST ENGLISH WOMEN S EXECUTIVE BOARD MEETING Thursday, April 16, 2009 Marlene opened the meeting with prayer. Secretary s report read & approved. Cluster meeting at Our Savior s Lutheran in Sebeka on Mon. April 20th with registration at 4 pm. Meeting will be next, then dinner at 6 pm. Cost: $8.00. Grow Where You are Planted. Program is Chromatic Fore. Grace Matters has been disbanded. The last program was Easter Sunday. Treasurer s report read and approved. Soup & Sandwich fund will be put into Special Projects - amount $ April 27th meeting with Vicki Marthaler A Lamp Unto My Feet at 6 pm with dessert & coffee, then program. Auction on May 3rd at 12:30. Menu: BBQ s, baked beans, pickles, baby carrots, chips. Price: free will offering. Coffee & Bars $1.00 serving 11:30 to 1 :00 pm. Women s Synodical Connection at Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd at Moorhead on June 12th & 13th, registration at 3 pm. Called from the Waters. Rebecca Circle serves H. S. Graduation reception, May 17th following worship service. Next Meeting: 4 pm on May 21st. Meeting ended with Lord s Prayer. Lucille Erickson, Secretary

12 FIRST ENGLISH BETHANY LUTHERAN CHURCHES 17 Main St. NW PO Box 189 MENAHGA, MN Non-Profit Org. U.S. POSTAGE Menahga, MN Permit NO. 3