Vol. 08 September 2008 No. 7

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1 Vol. 08 September 2008 No. 7 A WELCOMING PLACE We all know that a house does not in and of itself make a home, but love and hospitality can turn any house, no matter how plain or elaborate, into a home. It's a holy and healing thing to be invited in and treated as family. Some of you can attest to that because somewhere along the way someone's hospitality changed your life! Hospitality is about relationships and our readiness to open our doors and hearts to a stranger and share what we have with them. Hospitality is about welcome, warmth, kindness, generosity, love and grace. To be created in the image of God is to be hospitable - to make room - because God is hospitable. There is always room in his heart and at his table for one more. There is no scarcity in God's love. Jesus showed us that the secret to abundance is sharing, not hoarding. Hospitality is a defining mark of the people of God. It is therefore one of the places where Satan tempts us the most ferociously. The Pharisees and Sadducees of Jesus day of fell into the trap of hoarding the very thing they were to give away. As a result they became turned in on themselves and were very inhospitable. What a tragedy. Over the past few weeks we have had a number of skilled craftsmen working hard at Zion, moving our church offices to the "parking lot" side of the building. This is going to make the office much more handicapped accessible and much easier for strangers and members alike to find the offices. Hospitality! On rally Sunday, we welcome back our Sunday school children and teachers and leaders, and welcome new children and families to Sunday school. Hospitality! Toward the end of September Zion will begin its Stewardship drive, giving us all an opportunity to help support the many ministries we carry out locally, regionally, nationally and around the world. Hospitably. Whether it be in our homes, our church, our community or in our world we are all called to a ministry of hospitality. If you have some ideas to help cc us all working together, but with the Lord's guidance we can do it! In Christ, Pastor Gary Angel Unaware I find this an excellent time to advertise a wonderful, almost forgotten book from 1953 written by Dale Evans Rogers. While the PR Board was weeding old books from Zion s library, this one literally fell ito my hands. It is the true story of the legendary entertainers Roy and Dale Evans Rogers who were blessed with a Down's Syndrome girl and were advised to "put her away." The Rogers ignored such talk and instead kept Robin. She graced

2 their home for two and a half years. As we are challenged in Hebrews 13: 2, Dale takes her title from the scripture, Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares. If you haven t read this one, you should. If you have read it, you should read it again. Zion Lutheran Church Parish Planning Council Minutes July 15, 2008 President Lawrence Grant called the meeting to order. Attending: Pastor Gary Johnson, Pastor Ale Tulu, Deb Holtan, Duane Morey, Judy Melby, Marcia Sandahl, Chris Ueland, Amber Holtan, Connie Peoples, Bill Hoglo, and Jane Schaumburg. Pastor Ale led devotions. Members introduced themselves by name and office. Lawrence gave a brief overview of the Council s function and responsibilities. Secretary's Report: Judy moved to approve the minutes of the May 20, 2008 meeting. Duane seconded the motion, which carried. Treasurer s report: The monthly treasurer s report was presented. Bill Hoglo moved to accept the Treasurer s Report as printed. Judy seconded the motion, which carried. Board Reports: The small, broken window bricks near the mailboxes have been replaced. Old Business: Gary reported that the construction of the new church offices is moving along. There was discussion regarding having a Church Offices sign installed near the entrance of the new offices. The property located at 524 North Knight has been offered for sale. Two parties have expressed interest in the property but no offers have been received. At last report the owner of the property located at 518 North Knight had wanted 85K. As the Council deemed this too high there has been no further action Attendance at the WOW Services is considerably lower than in recent years. Speculation on the reasons for this was discussed. The Worship Board will review the matter. The semi-annual meeting was held on June 29, The slate of officers and board members offered by the nominating committee was approved.

3 The outdoor Sunday Service with Silver Creek was held on July 13, The weather cooperated and the service was well attended. Andrea held her last children s service during the outdoor service. The service, the potluck dinner and fellowship following the service seemed to be enjoyed by everyone. New Business: The committee formed to hire a Youth Director has met and an advertisement for a Youth Director has been submitted to local papers as well as Concordia, the Synod. Andrea prepared a notebook of helpful hints and suggestions for the next Youth Director. There was informal agreement that it would be desirable to hire a new director prior to Rally Sunday. Pastor s Report: Pastor Ale reported that Vacation Bible School will be held from August 11 through August 14 from 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Pastor Ale s reported that he enjoyed the continuing Ed that he recently attended at Mt. Caramel near Alexandria. The Mission committee met and letters along with copies of the church directories have been sent to the Ethiopian girls we sponsor. Pastor Ale stated that his neighbor is from Liberia and is interested in the windows that will be removed from Zion during the office renovation as he would like to take them back to Liberia. Pastor Gary reported that he enjoyed his vacation and was happy to be back in Thief River Falls. Pastor Gary indicated that we are still looking for a Chairman of Communion Setup. Anyone interested in serving in this capacity should contact Pastor Gary. Pastor Moyer s health continues to improve. Pastor Gary reported that Pastor Moyer is making home visits along with communion. Pastor Gary expressed appreciation for Andrea s work at Zion. He reported that July 15 was her last day with us. The meeting was closed with the Lord s Prayer. Respectfully submitted, Jane Schaumburg, Secretary Worship Board is looking for people to set up Communion

4 -2 Sundays a month -2 months a year -You will be trained Please call and leave a message. Zion Lutheran Church Parish Planning Council Minutes August 19, 2008 Vice-President Judy Melby called the meeting to order. Attending: Pastor Gary Johnson, Pastor Ale Tulu, Kitty Cornell, Duane Morey, Chris Ueland, Connie Peoples, Ginny Armstrong, Winton Forsberg, Lyle Paulson, Darlene Hulteen. Pastor Gary led devotions. Members introduced themselves by name and office. Secretary's Report: Ginny Armstrong moved to approve the minutes of the July 15, 2008 meeting. Winton Forsberg seconded the motion, which carried. Treasurer s report: Winton Forsberg presented the monthly treasurer s report. Duane Morey moved to accept the Treasurer s Report as printed. Chris Ueland seconded the motion, which carried. Board Reports: Properties Board: Lyle Paulson reported that the Properties Board is looking into purchasing new or used furnishings for the church offices. Duane Morey and Chris Ueland agreed to help with the search. Pastor Gary has contacted a sales person from Tony Dorn s about purchasing used furniture. Electricians are putting finishing touches in the new offices. The ceiling tile and floor tile are ready to be installed. Discussion was made about replacing the old folding chairs in the fellowship hall with new folding chairs or hard plastic ones. Public Relations: Darlene Hulteen reported that work has been done on weeding out of date books from the library. Plans are being made to move the reference books to Pastor Gary s old office and the others to the Apostle s Room. Fellowship Board: Kitty Cornell reported that the FB had discussed offering van rides to the congregational services and picnic at Silver Creek.

5 Worship Board: Chris Ueland reported that thirty new hymnals had been purchased. The plan is to have 250 purchased by Advent. Several donations of money have been made and the board is confident they will reach their goal. To generate enthusiasm for the new hymnal and familiarize the congregation with the new music, the senior choir will sing several songs from the new book this fall and winter. September 7 is Rally Sunday and discussion has been made about using the WOW service for that Sunday since the service lends itself well to the use of guitars and drums. The choir is hoping to purchase new robes and is planning a fundraiser this fall. Old Business: Gary reported that the construction of the new church offices is moving along well. He reported that the house on Knight had been advertised in the paper. Three calls had been received in the past two days. If the house has not been purchased by October 15, Rude Construction will begin demolition. The call committee for a youth director has reviewed five resumes and is conducting two interviews on Thursday, August 28. If neither of these applicants is acceptable, the committee will continue its search. Cammy Joppru will conduct Youth Forum until a new youth director is hired. New Business: Pastor Ale reported that materials have been purchased for Sunday School which starts on Rally Sunday, September 7. A Sunday School Superintendent and several teachers are still needed. The Christian Ed Board is in the process of calling people to fill those positions. The Fair Hills Retreat for pastors and spouses is scheduled for September Men s Breakfast at Handy Farms is scheduled every Friday morning at 6:30AM. Winton Forsberg reported that the Stewardship Board had finalized the new budget and have it ready by the October meeting. at its last meeting and requested that each board complete its budget Pastor s Report: Pastor Ale reported the Vacation Bible School had gone well. About fifty children had participated. Confirmation will begin on Wednesday, September 24, at 5:30 with a parent/student orientation. Pastor Gary reported that the No Experience Necessary Bible Study will begin at 2:00 and 7:00 on Thursday, October 9. The Youth and Youth Board will continue with Flapjacks for Faith between services on the third Sunday of September. The Stewardship drive will begin on Sunday, September 28. On the Sundays that communion is served, the time between worship services will be used for fellowship and coffee. On the Sundays communion is not served, an adult forum will be presented. Pastor Gary suggested that each board could use this time to inform the congregation of its duties and activities. The next Parish Planning meeting is Tuesday, September 23 because both pastors will be at the Fair Hill Retreat on September 16.

6 The meeting was closed with the Lord s Prayer. Respectfully submitted, Darlene Hulteen, Acting Secretary Stewardship Drive Begins Sunday, September 28 What Does Jesus Say About Money? 2 Corinthians 9: He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will supply and multiply your resources and increase the harvest of your righteousness. 11-You will be enriched I every way for great generosity, which through us will produce thanksgiving to Go d. 12-for the rendering of this service not only supplies the wants of the saints but also overflows in many thanksgivings to God. 13-Under the test of this service, you will glorify God by your obedience I acknowledging the gospel of Christ, and by the generosity of your contributions for them and for all others Zion's Financial Report January July Zion s income of $216,416 was exceeded by expenses of $229,202 for a deficit of $12,786. We had been doing better than last year through June; however, July income fell nearly $8,000 below budget resulting in unpaid bills of about $5700, for an actual deficit of over $18,000. With Rally Sunday and the fall season now here, we hope with better attendance and offerings that this deficit can be reduced. Confirmation Confirmation Begins Wednesday, September 24 Confirmation will begin, Wednesday, September 24, at 5:30 with a parent/student orientation meeting. Letters are being sent with further information.

7 Youth Forum Rally Sunday, September 7 Who - Senior High Where - Youth Room When 9:40 What Sunday School and learn about habits. What are habits? Come and find out. FLAPJACKS FOR FAITH 2 nd Serving on the Sunday of the month Between Services Youth Fundraising Activity *********************************************************************** Something New for the Senior Choir!!! Zion Lutheran's Senior Choir is working towards a new "look"! We are presently looking at purchasing new choir robes for the Senior Choir. Look for more information in the church foyer regarding this new and exciting time for our choir members. A September fundraiser is presently being planned and organized. Watch the newsletter and bulletins for details. We are looking at purchasing 40 robes at a cost of approximately $150 a piece. If you are interested in donating to this cause, please contact Diane Johnson or Dilene at the church office.

8 Zion Men's Prayer Breakfast Once again, beginning September 5th Zion men will be meeting at Handy Farms on Fridays at 6:30 A.M for breakfast. Discussion ranges from sports to weather. The Pastors share Sunday' s Gospel with us, which is then discussed, hopefully providing some ideas for Sunday's sermon. An offering ($1 L) is taken and we are through before 7:30 A.M. Over the past few years our group has donated over $6000 to various projects at Zion such as Youth Group, Deacon's fund, remodeling, furniture, a VCR, and fellowship hall ceiling and carpet. We usually have about ten attending, but there is room for more. We have lost some of our regulars over the past few years, so there are some empty chairs to fill. Why don't you join us Fridays? Evangelical Lutheran Worship Hymnal The Worship Board is now receiving donations for the Evangelical Lutheran Worship hymnal. Hymnals may be viewed in the back of the church. The board is hoping most of the hymnals needed will be given as memorials or special gifts. The cost is $25 per hymnal and includes gold stamping on the cover with Zion Lutheran Church. Please return this completed form along with the money to cover the number of hymnals you are giving to Zion. ( Please Print) My Gift for the ELW Hymnal Number of Hymnals at $25 each = $ enclosed Name If desired, you may designate your gift: Given in memory of Given in honor of

9 Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota is holding an adoption information meeting on Tuesday, September 9, 6:30-8:30 p.m., at the Clay County Family Service Center. The address is 715 N 11th Street in Moorhead. LSS can help families adopt children in Minnesota and from countries around the world. Call Vicki Haugen at (218) x215 for information and registration. For more information, visit VOLUNTEER POSITIONS OPEN Thrivent Financial For Lutherans, Pennington/Red Lake County Chapter is looking for volunteers willing to serve as chapter leaders. The Chapter processes and distributes over $20,000 a year thro ugh the Care Abounds in Communities program by supplementing community benefits and fund raisers. A Chapter leaders' term is four years with meetings held the first Monday of each month. Responsibilities: Complete, review, and approve benefit and fund raising requests. Serve as a resource for Congregational Leaders with training and an annual meeting. Computer knowledge and access to needed. Time commitment is one evening meeting per month plus processing of requests between meetings. Officers donate an additional 15 hours per month. Election to the board will be held at the October annual meeting. If you are interested, or need more information contact one of the following current board members before October 1st: Sue Dupree , Karen Young , Gelene Lundeen , David Ulrich , Marv Kading , Cheryl Matzke , Dawn Hanson , Lester Vad Youth and Family Ministry Director Hopefully by the time the Herald reache s you, a new Youth and Family ministry Director will have been hired. A committee of Sally Mumm, Terri Ueland, Mike/Kami Spears, Amber Holtan, Sharon Piche, D eb Wittenberg, Kristin Hanson, Pastor Gary and Pastor Ale was formed to find the new Youth and Fam ily Ministry Director for Zion Church. Several resumes have been reviewed and two interviews will be conducted on Thursday, August 28. Hopefully one of these candidates will fit the needs of Zion. If not, the committee will continue its search for a YFMD.

10 Dear Zion Staff and Congregation: I would like to thank everyone for the ca rds, letters, phone calls, and prayers you offered when I was in the hospital both in Thief River Falls and Fargo, as well as in Oakland Park. Your prayers and support worked because I am still here and feeling fine. Thanks again! John Hulteen Articles for the newsletter are due on the 20 th of each month. the first of the month, please get the articles to me by the 20th. Darlene Hulteen dhulteen@mncable.net Darlene Hulteen - 68 from sports to weather. The Pastors share Sunday's Gospel with us, which is then discussed, hopefully providing some ideas for Sunday's sermon. An offering ($1 L) is taken and we are through before 7:30 A.M. Over the past few years our group has donated over $6000 to various projects at Zion such as Youth Group, Deacon's fund, remodeling, furniture, a VCR, and fellowship hall ceiling and carpet. We usually have about ten attending, but there is room for more. We have lost some of our regulars over the past few years, so there are some empty chairs to fill. Why don't you join us Fridays?

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