The Sentinel Our Savior s Lutheran Church Montevideo, MN

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1 God be with you, Pastor Marie August 2017 Volume 18 Issue 8 The Sentinel Our Savior s Lutheran Church Montevideo, MN Thinking with... Pastor Marie Eckberg 1 Thessalonians 5: Rejoice always, 17 pray without ceasing, 18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. Dear Friends, Grace to you and peace from God our Father and our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Amen. Do you remember the camp song? Rejoice in the Lord always; again I say rejoice. Rejoice in the Lord always; again I say rejoice. Rejoice; rejoice; again I say rejoice. Rejoice; rejoice; again I say rejoice. I don t know how many times I sang that song, without knowing that it was from the Bible. Rejoice. Rejoice is a word that we do not often use. We might say, Be happy or Let s have fun, but not often rejoice. To me, rejoice is more than being happy or having fun. I think of rejoice as coming from the depths of our heart. It is knowing that deep down inside of us, God loves us, cares for us and God is right here with us, always. God s presence fills our heart and just knowing that, brings cause for rejoicing. There is complete joy within that gushes and overflows and infects all those around us. Rejoicing fills us with God s Spirit that calls us to a life in Christ. It is that feeling that we get when we are overwhelmed with joy in Christ. But... we all have those times when we do not feel like rejoicing times of sadness, illness, grief, pain, sorrow, suffering, not knowing what the future holds. Perhaps we think of those times and others when we feel like we are alone. That is when I look to the next verse that says, pray without ceasing. Maybe we chuckle to our self and we say, I certainly cannot pray without ceasing. I have too many other things to do. But those are the times when we really can draw closer to God in prayer. Being in relationship with Jesus as our Savior we can be assured that with his help, Jesus will give us the courage and peace and encouragement that we need to go on. Now we might be thinking am I really in relationship with Jesus? Do I really trust Jesus? I have not spoken with him for a long time. I have been too sad or too lonely and the words of prayer do not come. Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness; for we do not know how to pray as we ought, but that very Spirit intercedes with sighs too deep for words. These words are from Romans 8. Being in relationship with Jesus is talking with him and sometimes it is just being with him, because we cannot think of what to say. This is why I love the Holy Spirit. Because, time and time again, you and I know that our words of prayer do not always come. We can be certain; we can be confident; we are promised that the Holy Spirit will intercede for us and speak those words for us. So, in some special way, the Holy Spirit connects us with God by interceding, asking on our behalf for God s loving presence, always. And rejoicing cannot be far away! We give thanks in all circumstances. We have God who loves us; we have Jesus who forgives us; we have the Holy Spirit to guide us and pray for us. Yes, this gives us cause to Rejoice always.

2 Pastor Robert S. Knutson In Recognition and Celebration for Fifty Years in the Ministry of Word and Sacrament For surely I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope. --- Jeremiah 29:11 God certainly knew the plans that God had for the young man named Robert Knutson. They were plans for his welfare and plans with a future with hope in the Ministry of Word and Sacrament. Years ago, Bob Knutson was a student at Concordia College in Moorhead, Minnesota. Rita was a student there as well. They met and dated throughout college. During his time in college Bob heard God s call to him to become a pastor. The first person he told was Rita. Bob and Rita were married one week after he was graduated from Concordia and off to Rock Island, Illinois they went. Augustana Seminary was in Rock Island. Bob and Rita wanted to get there as soon as possible that summer so that they could find jobs to support Bob s seminary education. Intern Bob and Rita moved to Helena, Montana for Bob s internship year at St. John s Lutheran Church. They returned to Rock Island to finish his seminary education. He was graduated from Augustana Seminary with his Masters in Divinity (M.Div.). Pastor Bob was ordained on June 11, 1967 yes, that makes it fifty years ago! Following graduation Pastor Bob received his first letter of call as a pastor in Big Spring, Texas. This was a solo call to a mission development for the Lutheran Church in America. Pastor Bob and Rita enjoyed their time in Texas, but the north was calling him back. Pastor Bob s second call was to the Veterans Hospital in Fargo, North Dakota. He worked as a chaplain. Their third call was to Chisago Lake Lutheran Church in Center City, Minnesota. And their fourth call was to First Lutheran Church in Worthington, Minnesota. Pastor Bob and Rita s last full-time call was to Granite Falls Lutheran Church. Page 2 Almost two years ago, Pastor Bob and Rita joined Our Savior s Lutheran Church as an assistant pastor. Counting all those years, Pastor Bob has been a pastor for over fifty years. We are so pleased to celebrate and rejoice with Pastor Bob in his ministry for all those years. We give thanks to God for Pastor Bob and Rita for their many years of ministry together as they continue to serve God with joy and gladness. They have been and continue to be blessed to be a blessing to everyone they meet. And we know they are a good team a very good team. They work well together in church. And we can certainly see the love and joy they share with each other and with God. On August 20th at 9:00 a.m. we will take that time to rejoice in worship together. Following worship, there will be a special time of celebration reception in Bethany Hall. Please join us on this special day as we continue to enjoy our time with Pastor Bob and Rita.

Healthy Tips for End-of Summer Parish Nurse Ministry As the summer season winds down, many people start thinking about getting back into their "normal" routines, but still want to savor those final

3 Healthy Tips for End-of Summer Parish Nurse Ministry As the summer season winds down, many people start thinking about getting back into their "normal" routines, but still want to savor those final days of warm weather. Here are some tips to stay healthy, while still enjoying those final days of summertime! Do something good for your mind and body each day. This differs for each person. For some, it's reading the newspaper or a favorite magazine on the front porch, while enjoying a cup of coffee or fresh lemonade. For others it's taking a yoga class or water aerobics class. Whatever makes you happy and allows you to spend some time on yourself improves your overall mood and wellbeing. Continue to drink plenty of water. You've heard it a thousand times, but even as the temperatures turn a bit cooler, it is still important to stay hydrated! Grab your favorite water bottle, fill it with ice, water & maybe some fresh fruit or herbs (mint & lime is my favorite!), and head outside! Having water ready to go, makes it so simple to keep your body hydrated! Engage in stress-relieving activities. With the start of school and all that comes with it, it's easy to start feeling anxious and overwhelmed. There's just so much to do! But, take the time to enjoy one nonstressful event each day. It might be as simple as walk around the block, spending a few extra minutes at the park with the kids, or a late night trip for ice cream. It's those "little" things that can be big stress relievers. Get your sleep. It's so easy to get out of a sleep routine during the summer months. The evenings are longer, the kids want to be outside, and before you realize it, it's past your normal bedtime! 2-3 weeks before school starts, try to transition back to a regular bedtime. Turn off the T.V., put down the smart phone, dim the lights, and re-train your brain to fall asleep earlier. It makes those early mornings so much easier for everyone! Continued on next page...

4 Continued from page 3 Enjoy the abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables. Summer is the perfect time to take advantage of all the fresh fruits and vegetables. Prices for fruits and veggies are typically cheaper this time of year at grocery stores. Check out the local farmer's market for local fresh produce at really reasonable prices. The recipe I've included is one of my family's favorites, and is super easy! Grilled Flat Bread Pizza: Serves 4 Produce 8 Basil Leaves-torn 2 fresh tomatoes-sliced Condiments 1/2 c. fresh or store bought Basil Pesto 4 tbsp Balsamic vinegar Salt & Pepper to taste 4-5 tbsp olive oil Bread 2 Naan bread Other 3 pieces fresh Mozzarella cheese (1/2 in thick slices) or 1/2 cup shredded Mozarella cheese Directions: Turn grill to Medium. Brush both sides of Naan bread with olive oil. Place directly over hot grill 1-2 minutes each side. Watch closely to avoid burning. Remove from grill. Assemble pizza by applying: pesto, sliced tomatoes, torn basil leaves, cheese, and drizzle with Balsamic vinegar. Return to grill. Close cover for 4-5 minutes, long enough for cheese to melt. Remove from grill & drizzle with extra vinegar if desired, sprinkle with salt & pepper to taste. Enjoy! **Naan bread is super easy to use on the grill. Try substituting your favorite veggies & pizza ingredients. Your friend in Christ, Carrie Shelstad, RN Sr. Lites Fall Kickoff The staff will again be hosting the Sr. Lites fall kick-off on Monday, September 11th at 5:00 pm We will be doing the cooking, serving and cleanup. We also have some great entertainment lined up. All you need to do is show up! More information will be forthcoming. Get the date on your calendars!

5 OSLC Bible Buddies Our Savior s gives a bible to preschool, age 3 children, third graders, and seventh grade children as part of our ministry. We have approximately 38 children to provide bibles for this year at a total cost of $ We are asking for the congregation to consider sponsoring a child(ren) or a whole group of children. Who can sponsor a child? Anyone! We encourage all ages to participate in this outreach ministry. Everyone needs a buddy! What are my commitments as a sponsor? Contribution for the Bible (Make checks payable to OSLC for the amount you wish to contribute (in memo line indicate Bible Buddy) Commit to praying for the child. What do I need to do to be a sponsor? Complete the sponsor form along with your check and return them to the church office or place in the offering plate. Who do I contact for more information? Sue (suewinter@oslcmonte.net), or Jana (janamoeding@oslcmonte.net) at the church office, (320) I want to be a Bible Buddy! Name Address Phone Number I will contribute towards the purchase of Bibles. Preschool Bibles will be given out September 10th during worship. Third grade bibles

Can t make it to a Sunday service this summer? Plan on coming to the Come As you are (CARE) Summer Service of the Word on Wednesday evenings in the Fireside Room continuing through August at 6:00 pm.

If you can donate please drop off in the church office. The Game s Afoot Written by Ken Ludwig Gifts and Memorials Funerals: Ardyce E.

00 William Gillette is wounded following an attempt on his life at a performance. He invites a few friends over for a Christmas Eve celebration at his Connecticut mansion while he recovers.

When a murder happens at the mansion that evening, Gillette puts his Sherlock Holmes skills to the test in an attempt to solve the crime before something else goes awry.

6 Can t make it to a Sunday service this summer? Plan on coming to the Come As you are (CARE) Summer Service of the Word on Wednesday evenings in the Fireside Room continuing through August at 6:00 pm. Donations needed for Sunday School; glue bottles, scissors, crayons, construction paper (any color), scotch tape, chalk, and craft paint (any colors). If you can donate please drop off in the church office. The Game s Afoot Written by Ken Ludwig Gifts and Memorials Funerals: Ardyce E. Albrecht June 19, 2017 Baptisms: Marleyna Elle Laun June 25, 2017 Andrew Dwight Quigley July 2, 2017 Memorials: Nancy Tostenson Sunday School ``$ Loren Koenen Undesignated $ William Gillette is wounded following an attempt on his life at a performance. He invites a few friends over for a Christmas Eve celebration at his Connecticut mansion while he recovers. In the vein of whodunit murder mysteries, the plot takes many humorous twists and turns. When a murder happens at the mansion that evening, Gillette puts his Sherlock Holmes skills to the test in an attempt to solve the crime before something else goes awry. The Lunch Bunch is going to the Barn Theatre in Willmar for the production of The Game s Afoot on Thursday, August 17th at 7:30 p.m. The bus will leave the church parking lot at 6:15 p.m. for this delightfully funny play. Sign up in the church office, along with the ticket cost of $17. Rally Sunday We would like to invite you and your child to attend Rally Sunday at Our Savior s on September 10, 2017 from 10:00-12:00 (after worship). We are planning a very fun event for Rally Sunday. We are going to have a cake walk, volleyball, face painting and lunch will be served. The event is free and we hope you will come and join us for some fun activities. The whole congregation is welcome to join us. There will be no regular Sunday School on Rally Sunday, our regular Sunday School hour will begin on Sunday, September 17th at 10:15am and will go until 11:00 am. Please watch your mail for more details on this event. Sunday school registration forms are in the office or on the usher stands in the back of the church. They will also be on our web page at

Greetings in Christ! We are excited to let you know about some exciting musical worship options at Our Savior s Lutheran Church beginning in the fall.

The following is a description of the groups and the expected rehearsal times beginning in September: Youth Chime Choir Grades 3 9 Wednesdays 5:00-6:00 pm Adult Bell Choir 10th Grade Adult

There is some flexibility in the schedule if you are unable to commit to a group for a whole year. We will work towards small goals of pre-planned musical offerings during worship services.

7 Greetings in Christ! We are excited to let you know about some exciting musical worship options at Our Savior s Lutheran Church beginning in the fall. This letter is to let you know about those options and to gauge interest before we move forward with plans to start in September. The following is a description of the groups and the expected rehearsal times beginning in September: Youth Chime Choir Grades 3 9 Wednesdays 5:00-6:00 pm Adult Bell Choir 10th Grade Adult Wednesdays 6:30-7:30 pm Choir (singing) 9th Grade Adult Wednesdays 7:30-8:30 pm Knowledge of reading music is helpful, but not required. Beginners are welcome in all groups! There is some flexibility in the schedule if you are unable to commit to a group for a whole year. We will work towards small goals of pre-planned musical offerings during worship services. If you are interested in participating in any of these groups, please return the postcard you received in the mail. You can mail it, drop it off at the church office or put it in the offering plate. If you have any questions, please contact Rita Knutson at (home) or (cell). In His Name, Pam Baukol Beth Jahn Rita Knutson Barb Smith

8 Summer vacation time for our students is fast approaching the start to another school year. I would guess that parents are looking forward to getting some structure back in their child's lives. I would also guess Church that the Council kids are secretly Corner looking forward to seeing their friends at school and what new school experiences they will have. For our church, things will get back to a more normal routine. Pastor Don comes back the end of July from his Sabbatical and vacation. Pastor Bob is probably looking forward to a break in his hectic schedule as is Pastor Marie and Pastor Paul. For all the things that summer brings, and we enjoy, we can now start to look forward to the things that fall brings. The harvest, cooler weather, Thanksgiving, and, of course, the Christmas holidays. Mort Meyenburg has been leading a Wednesday night service and will continue through August. Attendance has been in the ten to fifteen range and has been held in the Fireside Room. For those that have not had a chance to attend, you are missing some great fellowship and a great service. News From Your Boards Most of the boards have had a break from their monthly meetings but not all. The Senior Advisory Board was busy in June and July. They hosted a Senior Communion on Thursday, June 22nd. A total of 73 people were served. July 11th they took a trip to the Swedish Institute. Upcoming in August will be a trip to the Barn Theater in Willmar. The show " A Sherlock Holmes Mystery-Comedy" will be playing. The date is August 17th, and show time is 7:30pm. Mason Hall roof has had some hail damage and will need some work. The Management Board will need to give the Council it's recommendation for repair at the August meeting. Also one of our A/C units for Bethany Hall had to be repaired in June. The fix wasn't too expensive but for units that are 17 years old parts are getting hard to come by. Just Thoughts: Life has a way of throwing us curve balls at times. Sometimes it's a job loss; sometimes a divorce; sometimes it's a sick child; or maybe it's a loved one that finds out that they have a life changing illness. We all see and hear the bad things that happen to good people and are sorry for them. It becomes a little more personal when it happens to you, or family, or a friend. Each week, in our church bulletin, we have a list of names of people from our congregation and others that we offer up in prayer for healing. As we look at the names we should remember that old saying " There but for the grace of God go I." Sometimes a hug, a friendly word, taking a few minutes to listen can make all the difference in the world to the person whose life is on hold and literally doesn't know how they can make it through the day. You might be that person that makes a difference that day. Finally in last months Sentinel I gave you some names that Jesus is called by and asked you to think of some other names. I have a few more and ask you to think of others that he is called by. Other names he is known by include: Everlasting Father; Bridegroom; True Witness; The Door; Lord of Lords; Prophet. In Christ, Ed Delf Church Council President

9 OUR SAVIOR S LUTHERAN CHURCH 222 N. 5th Street Montevideo MN ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED Our Mission: Go with God s Spirit, Share the Word of God, Reach Out to Those in Need! Worship Services Sunday at 9:00 am Office Hours Monday-Thursday 7:30 am to 4:30 pm. Fridays 7:30 am to 12:00 noon oursaviors@oslcmonte.com The Sentinel is published monthly for members and friends of Our Savior s Lutheran Church, Montevideo, Minnesota. Announcements must be in the office by the 15th of the month. Articles received later than this date will not run or will run in the next month s newsletter. All articles are subject to editing for content or length. Pastors OUR SAVIOR S STAFF Donald McKee Marie Eckberg Bob Knutson Ministry Secretary Jana Moeding Membership Sue Winter And Financial Secretary Christian EducationLisa Schultz Parish Nurses Organists Choir Director Custodians Tera Gades Carrie Shelstad Rita Knutson Lois Baker Dave Hedin Julie Olson Barb Smith Volunteers-too many to list! Thank you!

The Sentinel Our Savior s Lutheran Church Montevideo, MN

The Sentinel Our Savior s Lutheran Church Montevideo, MN November 2017 Volume 18 Issue 11 Lately, we have had many conversations about service. It is about serving the Kingdom. I heard a quote from a Christian