Proclaim. Jesus Christ, Live in Christ, Serve! Friday, Sept. 25, 2015, 4-7:30 p.m.

Transcription

1 September October 2015 Proclaim Jesus Christ, Live in Christ, Serve! Newsletter of St. Andrew s Lutheran Church, Mahtomedi, Minnesota saintandrews.org (651) BLOCK PA RTY Free Family Fun, Free Food, Everyone is invited! Friday, Sept. 25, 2015, 4-7:30 p.m. 1

2 From the Desk of the Lead Pastor Proclaiming Christ, Changing the World Titus 3:5: He saved us, not on the basis of deeds which we have done in righteousness, but according to his mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewing by the Holy Spirit. Something powerful is happening at St. Andrew s. In truth, it is amazing to see what is happening from my chair. I am watching transformation. I am seeing holy things happen, and if you look closely you can see them as well. Lives, communities, and parts of the world are changing before our very eyes. I am seeing individuals and families experience Christ moving in ways that enable people to forgive and love more deeply. In worship we have been baptizing more unbaptized adults as they give in to the power of love. I am seeing families on the brink of homelessness find not only homes, but get what they need to stay in sustainable living conditions. I am seeing other communities ask how they can learn from us and how we can help transform their communities. I see leaders from St. Andrew s flowing out from this place inspired by music and worship, ready to transform the world they work in every day. In visiting with the people who work in Slovakia and in Jamaica I see how our work is literally saving lives and growing faith. I see children and youth moving in huge ways with retreats and education so that the next generations will know the healing and loving power of Jesus Christ. Good things are happening. We are truly in the transformation business. Because of this amazing time, I have a very direct request from you as your pastor. This year as we celebrate God s generosity and make stewardship a living, breathing part of our lives, please do everything you can to attend this important event: Proclaiming Christ Changing the World Dessert and Program Monday, Sept. 28, 7-8 p.m., Great Hall Pledge Weekend is Oct Please RSVP by Wednesday, Sept. 23, to office@saintandrews.org or (651) Childcare available. This event is the kickoff to our annual giving, and is just one of the ways we talk about stewardship in our church community. I am hopeful that a strong response this year will enable us to see more changes in lives, communities, and the world as we proclaim the life-changing power of Christ to all people. Rev. Michael D. Carlson Lead Pastor, St. Andrew s Lutheran Church 2

3 Rally Day 2015! All Worship Services Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 12 & 13 DOCK, choirs, and fall programming begin for the year! Wednesday Night Worship Moves to 1st Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. Beginning in October, worship moves to First Wednesday of the Month 6:30 p.m. in the Sanctuary. St. Andrew s Worship Times Traditional Worship Sunday 9 & 10:30 a.m. Sanctuary Contemporary Worship Saturday 5 p.m. Great Hall Sunday 9:30 a.m. Great Hall Wednesday Night Worship First Wednesdays 6:30 p.m. Sanctuary Dock, our children s Christian education programing, and Nursery at all services. Sign language interpreter for the deaf and hard of hearing at 10:30 a.m. Worship at St. Andrew s Village 1 p.m. 3

4 New Member Class Sunday, Oct. 4, at 11:30 a.m. Sanctuary Building Becoming a member of St. Andrew s means that you are claiming this community as your own, and we want to invite you to take the next step from attender to member. In making this commitment you know who will walk with you in good times and in bad. You have a place to belong, and that is the church. Contact Ronda Sowada should you have questions and to register for the class: or rsowada@ saintandrews.org. A light lunch is served and childcare provided. Cake Walk Cakes Needed Hello Bakers and Buyers of Cake! Can you believe it s that time of year already? Friday, Sept. 25, is our annual BLOCK PARTY. We are having a cakewalk, and if you are a baker or buyer of cakes, we could really use one or two for the party! They can be dropped off anytime on Thursday, Sept. 24, or Friday, Sept. 25, before 3 p.m. in the kitchen of the Great Hall. Join Block Party Volunteer Team We throw an amazing party every fall for our community. We call it the Block Party, and we show our love to over 1,000 people each year. It takes 106 volunteers to make this event happen and frankly we need your help. We have sign up sheets at the hospitality desks with opportunities to do everything from pouring root beer, to playing music for the cake walk. Please consider giving a couple hours of your time see you at the party! Church Council Recommendations Sought The St. Andrew s Church Council is seeking recommendations to fill two 2016 open positions on the Council. Recommendations can be mailed, dropped off at the church office, or submitted online at saintandrews.org/ nomination no later than Sunday, Sept. 27, GriefShare Thursdays, Sept. 10 through Dec. 10 6:45 to 8:45 p.m. in Sanctuary Building BEGIN ANYTIME! GriefShare is a Christ-centered grief recovery support group. The Biblically-based program, focusing on grief topics associated with the death of a loved one, is presented in a 13-week video series featuring nationally respected grief experts. In group discussion you will have an opportunity to share with people who understand how you feel, the pain of your loss, and start the journey from mourning to joy. Call Joanne Zehnder at for more information. Register online at saintandrews.org, or contact Lisa Grundtner at or lgrundtner@saintandrews.org. Cost is $18 which covers all materials. Dorothy Day Center Meals are served every other month on the 4th Tuesday to people who are homeless or struggling with poverty. The next meal serving date is Tuesday, Sept. 22, 2:30-6 p.m. Let us know if you would like to help! Rice Krispie bars are also needed. Please deliver them to the church kitchen by 11 a.m. Contact Mike/Gayle Huseth at or ggnmike2@ aol.com. Why would I want to hold a door open for someone? Hebrews 13:2 says, Remember to entertain strangers for you may be entertaining angels unaware! John 13:34 says, So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other. And I say, Your smiling face might be the only face of Jesus someone sees all week! Please consider being on a five-week greeter rotation. You just show up a little early for a worship service you were planning on attending anyway, and make a huge difference in the lives of others. Contact Carrin at or cmahmood@saintandrews.org if you want to make people feel welcome at St. Andrew s. For complete information and a recommendation form, visit saintandrews.org/nomination or speak with Recommendation Committee members Kris Bowditch-Kirschhoffer, Rebecca Taibl or Keith Beckman. 4

5 Welcome Aboard Intern Pastor Tyler Strom! We are excited to welcome Tyler Strom as our new Pastoral Intern from Luther Seminary. He brings many gifts to our team and will have many wonderful opportunities to be in ministry with us. Proclaim Jesus Christ, Live in Christ, Serve! I was very excited to receive word that I would be serving as intern at St. Andrew s next year! Tyler said. It sounds like there are some great things happening there next year, and I can t wait to start! Tyler grew up in Helena, Montana, and ventured to Gonzaga University in Spokane, Washington, where he majored in Biology and minored in Psychology and Philosophy. He served as youth director at St. Luke Lutheran Church in Spokane for four years before moving to Pullman, Washington, where he has been working as an academic advisor at Washington State University for the past three years. In 2011, he began his M.Div. studies at Luther Seminary in the distributed learning program. Tyler is married to Siobhan, who graduated from vet school this year and has recently accepted a veterinarian position in the Twin Cities. Be sure to welcome Tyler, whose internship will last one year. Five Tips for leading a Small Group New LSS Counselor On Campus We are pleased to have a new counselor from Lutheran Social Services (LSS) on site here at St. Andrew s. John Koester will be here to serve our congregation members as well as folks in the community and we look forward to having him here, as he brings a widerange of gifts and experiences with him. As fall begins there are all kinds of groups that are coming back; Confirmation, Sunday School, Choirs, Bible Studies. And new ones are forming: Couples, Families, Interest Groups, etc. You might find yourself in a leadership position in a small group, and it is always good to remember tips in leading groups. Here are five tips to get your group started well. John is a Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist and holds a Master of Arts Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. He has experience working with adolescents, individuals, couples and families who are in the midst of a variety of life experiences. The services John provides can include help with relational challenges, life transitions, anxiety and depression, loss, and trauma and abuse. John also serves as an adjunct faculty member of a local university teaching undergraduate and graduate courses related to the mental health field. John enjoys working with people from varied backgrounds and considers it a privilege to empower people to explore how change and growth might happen. If you would like to schedule an appointment with John, you may call LSS directly at John will be here every Thursday from 12 noon to 7 p.m. Most insurances are accepted. His office is located in the Great Hall building across from the Community Resource Center. 1. Claim your space. Where you meet and how it is setup sets a tone for the members. Can everyone see each other? Is there a central focal point? Lighting- does it say what you want it to say? It is bright to elicit conversation, or toned down to give people a contemplative feel? What is the seating like? Will people be comfortable or too comfortable? 2. Glad you are here. Coming to a new group can be intimidating. As a leader, welcome everyone with a smile and their name if you can. See to their needs and introduce them to someone. In doing so you are telling them that they are important and that there are others they will want to know. 3. Prepare, Prepare, Prepare. We are all busy people and want to spend time in places that matter. Nothing matters more than when people are prepared for leading a session. Do your homework, have your supplies and be early to lead. Continued on Page 7 5

6 Prayer, Bible Study, Adult Education Adult Education Sunday Series Discipleship and Healing Sundays, 10:45 a.m.-noon, Great Hall Fall Speakers Sept. 27 Prayer School Pastor Straiton Oct. 4 Prayer School Pastor Straiton Oct. 11 Prayer School Pastor Straiton Oct. 18 Prayer School Pastor Straiton Oct. 25 Prayer School Pastor Straiton Nov. 1 Dr. Karoline Lewis, Associate Professor, Luther Seminary Nov. 8 Dr. Karoline Lewis, Associate Professor, Luther Seminary Nov. 15 Dr. Karoline Lewis, Associate Professor, Luther Seminary Nov. 22 Jodi Harpstead, Lutheran Social Services (Watch for more details in your weekly bulletin inserts.) Prayer School: Teach Us To Pray With Pastor John Straiton Sunday Mornings in the Great Hall, 10:45 a.m.-12 noon Sept. 27- Oct. 25 At one level prayer is simply a conversation with God. Only prayer goes deeper than conversation because prayer does not necessarily require words. At its center, prayer is simply being present to the presence of God. Join Pastor John Straiton for a 5-week Prayer School. Our goal is to increase and enhance the power and practice of prayer. Along with presenting a fresh perspective on the purpose and practice of prayer, you will also learn how to pray a Daily Prayer Liturgy created specifically for St. Andrew s. To be a Christian without prayer is no more possible than to be alive without breathing. Martin Luther. Registration is not necessary. READ Bible Study: Discipleship With Pastor John Straiton Monday Mornings, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Beginning Oct. 5, Great Hall Join Pastor Straiton in a study of discipleship. Discipleship is faithfully living in response to Jesus call to follow him. It is a personal commitment to be spiritually centered in the Triune God through four sacred and timeless disciplines: worship, scripture, fellowship, and prayer. The ultimate purpose of discipleship is to build Christ s Church and glorify God s name so that the whole world will know the healing power of Christ s love. Preregister online at saintandrews.org or with a registration envelope. Or register at class after the start date. Fee is $10. 6

7 Prayer, Bible Study, Adult Education Faith Journey 3 Week Session, Saturdays or Sundays after Worship, starting the weekend of October 18 St. Andrew s is so big, I don t know where to plug in. I came here when my kids were small. Now that they are grown I don t know where I fit. I feel the Holy Spirit nudging me, but I am not sure what it is nudging me to do. If any of these statements ring true for you, then we have the class for you. Finding where you belong and what God is calling you to be can be a challenge in this fast-paced world. Join Erin Morris, Diaconal Minister of Faith Engagement, in a three-week journey to hear the call of Christ in your heart and soul. Register online at under Faith Journey. Faith Sharing 3 Week Session, Saturdays or Sundays after Worship, starting the weekend of Nov. 8 Talking about your faith can be a challenge. Wanting to share what you know and feel about Jesus in a way that does not hurt or offend others is a skill that can be taught. Come for these three weeks in which we will learn how to share our faith with our families, our co-workers, and with strangers. Investing in Present and Future Thursday, Oct. 8, 7-8:30 p.m. Great Hall Room 1 We should not store all our treasures in a barn to be used for later. We have to find the balance of what God has given us in the here and now and in the future. Planning for the future prepares us to be able to participate in God s plan for the Kingdom. Join Doug Bailey, member of St. Andrew s and retired CPA, to learn about the basics of living within your means and planning for retirement. Register at saintandrews.org. Living a Life That Matters: Navigating that third chapter Starting Tuesday, Oct. 6 Sanctuary Room 204; 7-8:15 p.m. This class is for any of us who find ourselves pondering: I am at that time in my life where my career is peaking for better or for worse; I am no longer defined by my paycheck; I am no longer pre-occupied with children living underfoot; I still have my health and enough energy to do something of significance; do I have a call anymore?; if so, what is my call now; what role should the church have for me in this third chapter of my life? We will engage in these questions using Galatians and Ephesians as the biblical backdrop to our exploration together. Register online at under Faith Sharing. Small Groups Continued from Page 5 4. Leave room for the Holy Spirit. As prepared as we are, we need to leave room for what God has planned and brings forth. Tangents are OK as well as taking time to truly care and connect with one another. The Spirit brought everyone to your group, trust that the Spirit knows where it is headed. 5. Where everyone knows your name. We all want to be missed and know that our presence matters. Follow up if someone from your group is not there. Text, or even call them and check in on them. You never know why they are gone. It could be for practice or for a funeral. It is your chance to minister to your group. 7

8 Christian Sympathy As a community of faith, we mourn the loss of the following brothers in Christ: John Mikolich Christian love and sympathy are extended to the family of John Mikolich. John died at the age of 85 on June 15. His memorial service was held on June 29. Robert Ebbert, Sr. Christian love and sympathy are extended to the family of Robert Ebbert, Sr. Robert died at the age of 87 on July 6. His memorial service was held on July 9. Gregory Jeans Christian love and sympathy are extended to the family of Gregory Jeans. Greg died at the age of 55 on Aug. 2. His memorial service was held on Aug. 7. May Christ s resurrection bring hope and comfort to those who grieve their loss. Possible New Global Mission Site for St. Andrew s Iringa Diocese in Tanzania St. Andrew s has been blessed with partnerships in Jamaica and Slovakia for over 15 years. It is time to explore where God is calling us next across the globe to spread his word, as well as learn from others. A small delegation from St. Andrew s will travel to Iringa, Tanzania, in March 2016 to explore the already thriving relationship the St. Paul Synod has with our sister Synod, and to determine if this is the time for a new Mission Partner. If you would like to be a part of this mission delegation or want more information please come a gathering in Sanctuary Room B01 on Sunday, Sept. 27, 11:45 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. or contact Erin Morris, at emorris@saintandrews.org. Serve in the Current Worship Serving in worship is a great way to: Make the commitment that you will be at worship Meet other people who attend the same service you do Serve on the Worship Team to help make worship happen for your family and others Make Jesus smile We are needing people to serve at the Current Worship, which is the 9:30 a.m. contemporary service in the Great Hall. This worship is growing and we want to make sure that all who come are greeted warmly and are able to enjoy the Holy Spirit s presence. We don t expect you to just know how to serve so we would like to train you, new and experienced, young and old. Ushers and Communion Assistants will be trained on Sunday, Sept. 20, after the service, 10:45-11:30 a.m. Greeters and Hospitality will be trained on the Sunday, Sept. 27, after the service, 10:45-11:30 a.m. Contact Jodi Campbell for more information: jcampbell@saintandrews.org. 8

9 Loaves and Fishes Celebrates 30-Year Partnership with St. Andrew s A very dedicated group of volunteers make meatloaf from scratch, prepare mashed potatoes and gravy, veggies and fruit salad at the Dorothy Day Center. Some provide Rice Krispie bars for dessert or the 80 pounds of hamburger that is used. St. Andrew s volunteers prepare to serve 300 people in 45 minutes on the 4th Tuesday of the odd months of the year. We have volunteers who have served 30 years, 25 years, 15 years, etc. The clients are very thankful for the dinner and give us lots of positive blessings and grateful reviews for the food. Averaging 225 clients served meals every other month for over 30 years = 40,500 meals served by St. Andrew s volunteers 3,600 volunteers were required to serve meals over 30 years; many have served for multiple years Averaging 3 hrs per volunteer over 30 years = 10,800 hours Serving 80 pounds of hamburger in the meatloaf over 30 years = 14,400 pounds of hamburger Travel to Europe for 2017 Reformation Anniversary Tour Like to travel to Europe? Enjoy growing deeper in your Lutheran faith and theology? Ready for a trip of a lifetime? St. Andrew s has the answer in July of Bring your family and friends for a 500 Year Reformation Anniversary Tour as the Lutheran World commemorates Martin Luther s nailing of the 95 theses to the door of the castle church in Wittenberg, Germany. You ll visit the important sites in the life of Martin Luther: the font where he was baptized, the castle where he translated the Bible, the church where he preached, the doors where he began a revolution, and so much more. Combine all this with a cultural reformation festival of music, learning, and service in the heart of Wittenberg for 3 days, a stay in vibrant Berlin, a cruise in Prague, a taste of Munich, and castles and tours in Bavaria and Oberammergau, and you will be moved in mind and soul. This is the definitive look at Martin Luther s Germany and beyond. You may have been Lutheran your whole life, but during this week you will meet Martin Luther for the first time or greet him again as an old friend. Join Pastors Mike Carlson and Brian Norsman at two tour information meetings on Sunday, Sept. 20, at 1 p.m. and Thursday, Oct. 1, at 7 p.m. in the Great Hall. For more information contact Pastor Brian Norsman at bnorsman@saintandrews.org or

10 Sharing Resources: Bibles for Camp by Kris Mason, St. Andrew s Community Resource Center The Community Resource Center was contacted this summer by a community social worker who was working with a family from North St. Paul. The three boys, ages 8, 10, and 11, were invited by another church to attend Camp Wapo. This would be their first camp experience. Mom and boys were thrilled, until mom read the list of items needed for camp. She simply was unable to afford all that was needed for all three boys. That s when the social worker came to the Community Resource Center for help. In our donation supply room we Debbie Larson Joins CRC Team found bug spray, sunscreen, extra socks, sleeping bags, and a flashlight. To complete the list they needed Bibles which the CRC did not have. We put a call out to the fantastic St. Andrew s children s ministry team who did not hesitate. They donated new, age-appropriate Bibles to each of the boys! What a great way to work together to send three boys to camp. And although we may never know the impact camp had on the family, we do know that St. Andrew s is making a difference for families here in our community! We are pleased to introduce Debbie Larson, our new Volunteer/Hospitality Coordinator for the CRC. Debbie brings many gifts and talents to St. Andrew s. She comes to us with several years experience as a volunteer coordinator and also has been collaborating with St. Andrew s as a part of a group in Forest Lake (Forest Lake Area Mission for Families) that is seeking to identify additional emergency shelter options for our neighbors in northern Washington County. Debbie s contact information is dlarson@saintandrews.org and Benevolence Grant To Help Multi-Cultural Congregations Congregations and communities across the Upper Midwest are experiencing significant cultural changes as they continue to welcome immigrants from all corners of the globe. Many of these newcomers are discovering a cultural and religious landscape quite different from what they experienced in their homeland. Agora, a Greek word meaning marketplace or gathering place, was founded in 1999 as a ministry of the Minneapolis Area Synod of the ELCA as they recognized congregations can be gathering places for a free exchange of cultures and ideas in the context of a loving, Christian community. Now as an independent, stand-alone ministry, Agora provides education for lay leaders of immigrant, ethnic-specific, and multi-cultural congregations seeking to establish crosscultural awareness and acts as a catalyst for congregations to be transformed and to expand their mission and vision. The primary population they serve consists of immigrant lay leaders of Lutheran congregations (though it is not limited to Lutherans) who originally come from various countries in Africa, Asia, Latin America, and the Caribbean. They address 10 the needs of these congregations by offering programs to develop new lay leaders who are equipped to teach Sunday School, lead Bible studies for youth and adults, preach and lead worship, visit those who are sick and hurting, and reach out to people with God s love. Their goal is to foster the growth of new leaders for these communities in the Twin Cities, Southeastern and Southwestern Minnesota, as well as South Dakota. They believe that God is continually calling forth new leaders to strengthen and expand the church of Jesus Christ, recognizing and celebrating the gifts of all in the context of a loving community. St. Andrew s Benevolence Committee recently awarded Agora a $10,000 grant. Upon hearing of the award, Dr. Paul Erickson, the Executive Director of Agora, shared, I m grateful for St. Andrew s support as we work to expand our ministry. I m firmly convinced that God is calling us to help develop and liberate the gifts of our lay leaders. Funds from St. Andrew s Benevolence Committee will help them to expand their reach outside the Twin Cities.

11 October Event: Living Trust vs Will Have you reserved your spot? What: Foundation of St. Andrew s Fall Education/Dessert Event When: Tuesday, Oct. 13, 2015, 6-8 p.m. Where: Lake Elmo Inn Event Center Theme: Thy Will be Done - A Continuation! The Foundation of St. Andrew s is offering a follow up to our complimentary Dessert & Enlightenment event, following an overwhelming response to last fall s event. You may not have the fame of Jacqueline Onassis, Bing Crosby, Lawrence Welk or Bob Hope, but we can all learn from their estates in deciding whether or not to create a will or living trust. Come, learn and get answers to questions like the following: Is privacy a major benefit of a living trust? True False For a young person with a modest estate, is a will is more reasonable than a trust? True False Is a major benefit of a living trust to protect you in your senior years? True False Our speaker is Paul D. Brown, JD, of Chandler and Brown Ltd. Refer to his bio at chandlerandbrown.com/paul-brown. Space is limited. RSVP by to lgoodroad@saintandrews.org or by Oct. 1 to ensure your spot. If you cannot make this event but would like more information about the work of the St. Andrew s Foundation, please visit our website at: saintandrews.org/foundation. Board of Directors Tony Belden tbelden@engamerica.com Jay Breidinger jay@tbncpa.com Mike Carlson Lead Pastor Myron Goeser myron.goeser@pragmatek.com Dyanne Ross-Hanson drh@exitplanstrategies.com Robert Hanson werthehansons@aol.com Roger Henry rbhenry2@comcast.net Leann Lenander leann@lenanderadvisory.com Sara Meslow sara@campodayin.org Jim Nash jnash@capsurpcbs.com Tom Schock tcschock@hotmail.com Joe Sperber jsperber@comcast.net Ralph Steiner ralphsteiner@comcast.net Contact Lori Goodroad at for more information. Listen to worship LIVE on the web and radio! Every Sunday our 9 a.m. worship service is broadcast live on KLBB radio 1220 AM and online at just click the "listen live" link. The broadcast is sponsored by The Foundation of St. Andrew s. Sponsor a Radio Broadcast Individuals are invited to sponsor a live radio broadcast of worship at St. Andrew s. Your sponsorship will be announced on the air prior to the worship broadcast. Cost is $150 and checks can be made payable to St. Andrew s Foundation. Please drop at reception desk: Yes, I want to sponsor a weekly broadcast for $150! Date of sponsorship: Sponsored by: Circle one and include details: IN HONOR OF... IN MEMORY OF... TO THE GLORY OF GOD Thanks to Radio Sponsors! We thank all who have supported the weekly radio broadcast of 9 a.m. worship. The following are sponsors in July and August: Listeners at Boutwell s Landing in Oak Park Heights to the Glory of God; Robert & Jane Hanson in memory of their parents; Robert & Sharon Hanson to the Glory of God; Glenn & Rebecca Taibl in thanksgiving for the church; Mary Blanchard in honor of Gus s birthday; and Robert & Sharon Hanson in honor of Walter & Violet Christian. 11

12 Family Ministry Opportunities Think of DOCK as Sunday School 2.0! No more confusion about Sunday School programs on Wednesday and Saturday Evenings. DOCK covers it all. The Registration for DOCK is up and ready. Please visit our webpage for full details and registration links: saintandrews.org/dock. We currently ask for a new registration each school year and for each child in the family. Register for Sunday School before Rally Weekend, Sept. 12. DOCK also presents a new way to volunteer more flexibility: one-time, monthly, weekly commitments for anyone grade 6 and older it all works! For more information on volunteer opportunities visit saintandrews.org/ DOCKVolunteer. General information about DOCK: DOCK is available at all worship times: Saturday in the Great Hall at 5 p.m., Sunday in the Sanctuary at 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m., Sunday in the Great Hall at 9:30 a.m., and Wednesday in the Sanctuary at 6:30 p.m. Everything begins for the school year on Saturday, Sept. 12; Sunday, Sept. 13, and Wednesday, Sept. 16. DOCK is open to all children age 3 through grade 5. New for Great Hall - Open through grade 5! Two key elements make up DOCK: 1. Intergenerational worship once a month. The first weekend/wednesday of every month (Saturday, Sunday and Wednesday night services), DOCK join their parents, siblings and other family members in the pews for the entire worship service. The intergenerational service includes children s choirs, Skipping Stone Celebrations, and special children s messages. As always, nursery is available for children age 5 and under. Parents Night Out: Available for children up to Grade 5! Introducing the new age group, Kindergarten through Grade 5. Send all the kids to a great event at church while you take a few hours away. Enjoy a quiet dinner or do a little shopping, while your children enjoy Bible stories, crafts, games and time to play with new friends. We provide a snack and lemonade (dinner not provided). Fridays, Sept. 11 and Oct. 9; 5-8 p.m.; Sanctuary Building; Ages: 12 months Completed Grade 5; Costs: $10/child or $25/family. Children will all be checked-in and checked-out at the Sanctuary Building. During programming, preschool and younger children will remain in the Sanctuary, and kindergarten through grade 5 age children will go to the Youth and Sports Center for fun rotation of activities. Registration closes the Thursday before the event. Register online. Contact Kim Lewin at Monthly themed learning format. On the remaining weekends/ Wednesdays for kids ages 3 and up, content will mirror what the rest of the congregation is covering during worship that month. Experiences, energy and variety are the focus. Innovative activities may include art, drama, music, storytelling, prayer and more. Each week children will experience the stories in a different way. Take-home activities based on these stories will help families talk about faith on the car ride home, at breakfast the next day, and beyond. 12

13 Young Families Family Frolics At the Youth and Sports Center Gym; Mondays: 9-11 a.m. Parents and their preschool children are invited to the Gym at the Youth and Sports Center. There is no charge to play, simply come and enjoy. Contact Lisa Heyer at for more information. 3 For Me A Fun Break for Parents and Kids! 3 for Me offers three hours of free time for busy moms and dads while their kids enjoy three hours of FUN, including Bible stories, play, songs, crafts and group activities - all in a safe, nurturing environment. For a link to registration and more information visit us online. Contact Masako Kedrowski at or mkedrowski@saintandrews.org with any questions. Parents Night Out: See Family Ministry Section Contact Information To contact a member of the Children s Team, visit our web page: Important Dates in September and October September: 11: Parents Night Out Available up to Grade 5! 12/13/16: DOCK Begins (Sunday School 2.0) 20: Baptism Class 25: Block Party October: 3/4/7: Preschool Bible Skipping Stone Celebrations 8: Baptism Class 9: Parents Night Out 30: Tricks and Treats with the Mighty Organ 31: First Communion Skipping Stone Workshop and Celebration Nov. 1: First Communion Skipping Stone Celebration Serving Opportunities DOCK Volunteer Opportunities Welcome to DOCK Disciples of Christ Kids: Where Kids Experience Jesus. Open to Youth (Grades 6-12) and Adults Maximize your Gifts and Talents, Minimize your Time Commitment We are looking for Station Leaders for our themed learning model of class time. September: Art, Drama, and Games October: Service Projects, Prayer, and Food November: Games, Puppets, and Book Making Every week, age groups will need Crew Leaders to engage children in the station activities for the day. These small group leaders are key to building relationships with and between children! Sign-up online on the website, saintandrews.org/ DOCKVolunteer 13

14 Skipping Stones Celebrating Baptism Baptism Preparation Classes: 14 Proclaim Jesus Christ, Live in Christ, Serve! Sunday, Sept. 20, at 12 noon in the Sanctuary Room 204 Thursday, Oct. 8, at 6:30 p.m. in the Great Hall Room 6 It is expected that families attend a Baptism Class before the baptism of each of their children. The class is free of charge; please register at least one week prior. Childcare is available. Contact Lisa Heyer to register for the class and set up a baptism at or LHeyer@saintandrews.org. Preschool Blessing Ceremony of Beginnings Upcoming Dates: Saturday, Oct. 3, at 5 p.m.; Sunday, Oct. 4, at 9, 9:30, 10:30 a.m.; or Wednesday, Oct. 7, at 6:30 p.m. Celebrated in the fall, this milestone recognizes the exciting step children take as they begin participation in DOCK (Disciples of Christ Kids), our children s Christian education program. Preschoolers who are attending DOCK for the first time will experience a special blessing and will receive their own Spark Story Bible. Please register your child ahead of time for the specific service you would like to attend. For more information about the service contact Kim Lewin at or klewin@saintandrews.org. First Communion Instruction: Welcome To The Lord s Table (Grade 1 and up) Upcoming Dates: Workshop, Oct. 31; 9:30 a.m p.m. Great Hall Celebration Services: Saturday, Oct. 31 at 5 p.m.; Sunday, Nov. 1 at 9, 9:30, or 10:30 a.m. Registration and more information online at saintandrews.org/ skippingstones. Children Grade 1 and older are invited to participate in the Communion Workshop. The decision to participate is one that needs to be made by the family; each child develops differently both mentally and spiritually. Communion is always open for any believing heart to partake. The workshop is a supplemental element to aid in better understanding the sacrament of Holy Communion. Participants will learn about the history of communion, partake in a sampling of Passover foods, bake bread and prepare for the sacrament itself. Parents or Godparents are asked to attend class with their child but the whole family is invited to join in. If you have questions contact Kim Lewin at or klewin@saintandrews.org. Sports and Rec Yogadevotion Yogadevotion is a practice of breath, prayer and movement led by a trained yoga instructor. Yogadevotion helps to encourage healthy living and a peaceful presence. Whether you are just beginning to explore the benefits of yoga or an experienced yogi, you are welcomed to this community. Need 15 pre-registered for each class to be held. Register through an in-house registration form, attention Dianne Nash, call , or register on-line. Upcoming classes for Yogadevotion: Seven weeks Sept. 14-Oct. 26; cost $50 Seven weeks Nov. 2-Dec. 14; cost $50 Practicing in the Presence Monday Mornings Multi-level; 9 to 10 a.m., this class is open to all ages. Classes will be held in Sanctuary Room 204. Practicing in the Presence/Yin Yoga Monday Evenings 5:15-6:15 p.m. in the Great Hall. Yin yoga poses are intended to work passively with the fascia rather than actively with the muscles. Class will require props such as a block, strap, and blanket/pillow for the closing meditation. You may bring your own props from home or purchase the first night of the class. Practicing in the Presence Monday Evenings 6:30-7:30 p.m. This multi-level class is open to all skill levels from beginner to advanced. Classes are held in the Great Hall. Karate for the Family Karate for kids and adults is offered on Tuesday nights at St. Andrew s. Adults and children as young as first grade have class during the same hour (separate classes). It s a great way to share mind, body, and spirit activity with your child. 12-week sessions ongoing. Contact Dan at dellenbecker@ gmail.com for more information.

15 Men s Ministry Proclaim Jesus Christ, Live in Christ, Serve! Men s Tuesday Morning Bible Study With Pastor John Straiton A large group of men meet year round every Tuesday morning in the Great Hall from 6:30 to 7:30 a.m. Come and make some new friends as you learn more about God s word. Starting in September we will be focusing on Paul s letter to the Romans. Coffee and rolls are provided. Registration is not necessary. No fee. Men s Breakfast Back on Plate in October Saturdays, Oct. 16 and Nov. 20, 8-9:30 a.m. in the Great Hall Men s Ministry breakfasts feature a delicious meal, music, fellowship and an inspirational message. Share the invitation with sons, fathers, grandfathers and neighbors. Cost: Free-will offering at the door. Couples Ministry For Couples, By Couples A new ministry is forming by couples, for couples. It is a time for couples of St. Andrew s to gather, meet other couples, enjoy camaraderie, as well as learn about relationships and God. A variety of events are offered, and we are looking for other couples who would be willing to help in this ministry. If interested, please contact Erin Morris, Diaconal Minister of Faith Engagement, (651) or emorris@saintandrews.org TAG Couples Class 6 weeks starting Oct. 15, 7-8 p.m. Great Hall Childcare Provided One of my favorite take-aways from the class is our precious lists. It is always a great reminder of what I love about Steve. We had couples that were married 3 years to 50 years in class. You learn from each other s experiences and that is so amazing. Also, you don t have to have problems in your marriage/relationship to learn from TAG. It is about being the best partner you can be. -Jen Stresnak, St. Andrew s member and Class Participant Spring 2015 Tag is a game we played as kids, and it is a game we play in many of our relationships. Making the other one IT so we are not is always the object. Come and join other couples as we learn how to communicate better with each other, laugh alongside each other, and meet other couples from St. Andrew s. This class is limited to seven couples so register early. Childcare will be provided. Date Night Friday, Oct. 2, Time TBA Come and enjoy an evening out with your partner in crime. Plans are still in the works. It could be dinner and a show, happy hour and a game, or touring a new place in town. Whatever the event is we can guarantee that you will meet other couples, it will be off campus, and it will be very fun. Childcare will not be provided. Relationship Seminar With TAG Author Glen Pickering Saturday, Nov. 7, 9 a.m.- Noon We are all in relationship with someone; our family, coworkers, spouse, neighbors. Come spend the morning learning how you can better communicate with others, as well as your own way of being understood. Registration will be online and there will be childcare. Couples Retreat January 29-31, 2016 Naniboujou Lodge in Grand Marais Cost estimate $400 per couple Join Pastors Carlson and Breckenridge with their spouses for a weekend of relaxation, rejuvenation, and restoration. There will be time for worship, learning, and playing as you grow closer to you partner as well as to Christ. Space is limited; contact Lori Goodroad to reserve your spot, lgoodroad@saintandrews.org or

16 High School and Middle School First Day School Walk Tuesday, Sept. 8, from 6:30 to 7:30 a.m. in the Youth and Sports Center (suggested donation is $5) The first day of school can be an exciting and nerve wracking time. To start the school year off right, we will gather early and share in fellowship, pastries, and early morning OJ. Afterwards, we will walk as a group to Mahtomedi Middle School and High School. This is open for all 6th through 12th graders. Want to send your support to the young people of St. Andrews? We will gladly accept donations of baked goods for the event. Contact Josh Carlson at or jcarlson@saintandrews.org for more information. Wednesday Night Activities Starting Sept. 9 2:45 to 6:45 p.m. in the Gym, Pier 7, Community Room Youth and families of all ages, come join us weekly at the Youth and Sports Center for after school activities. The YSC will offer space for homework, gym time, organized games, outdoor games (when weather allows), and a movie room as options for relaxing or burning off some energy after the school day. All activities are free of charge. Dinner and snacks are available for purchase in the Community Room. Middle School Ministry Fall Boogie Fest Friday, Oct. 2, 8:30 to 11 p.m. in the Great Hall, $5 at the door The first month of school can be stressful. Sometimes the best way to blow off steam is to hit the dance floor. Come join us as we dance the night away. There will be music, games, time to hang out with friends, and snacks available for purchase. For the first time ever there will be a dance off, and if you beat dance master Josh Carlson you will receive a prize! Contact Josh at or jcarlson@saintandrews.org for more information. O.F.F (Operation Faith Force) Friday, Sept. 11, and Oct. 9, 4-8:30 p.m. Youth & Sports Center During this time we will practice the skills you learned during O.F.F. training, as well as check in about the school year. In September we will spend half the time in fun fellowship. In October we will partner again with Parents Night Out. Dinner will be provided during this great night. Contact Josh Carlson for more information. Moonlight Madness (Halloween edition) Friday, Oct. 30, 8 p.m. thru Saturday, Nov. 9, 8 a.m. This year we will spend the night on the town St. Andrew s style. Last year we enjoyed time bowling, roller skating, laser tag, bumper cars, minigolf, arcade games, and a movie at Marcus. Come this year as we hit some of last year s favorite spots and a few new incredible places, along with a surprise location. We will do all of this in our Halloween costumes. Please pay attention to the bulletin for more details. Contact Josh Carlson at or jcarlson@saintandrews.org for more information. 16

17 Confirmation Ministry Confirmation Mentors Needed! Are you willing to help pass on the faith to our next generation of young people? Your church needs YOU to help invest in the faith of our youth! This fall, 400 youth will begin Confirmation. They will be divided into 50 small groups and need 100 small group leaders. We are in need of caring Christian adults who have a heart for kids and a desire to help them grow deeper in their faith. Come to a Leader Training (see below) to find out more about how you can serve. Contact Brian Norsman for details or register online at saintandrews.org/confirmation. Confirmation Guide Trainings Sunday, Sept. 20, noon to 1 p.m. in the Sanctuary, Room 204 Wednesday, Sept. 23, 7 to 8 p.m. in the Sanctuary, Room 204 Wednesday, Sept. 30, 7-8 p.m. in the Sanctuary, Room 204 Dates to remember: 9th Grade Wednesday, Sept. 9, Orientation, parents & students, 5:45 to 6:30 p.m. in the Great Hall Wednesdays, Sept. 16, 23, 30, Small groups/parent Teaching Time 5:45 to 7:15 p.m. in the Great Hall Wednesday, Sept. 30, Stole Day, 7:15 to 9 p.m. in the Youth & Sports Center Wednesday, Oct. 7, Confirmation Family Worship, 6:30 to 7:15 p.m. in Sanctuary Saturday /Sunday, Oct. 10 and 11, Confirmation Retreat (All youth must attend) Saturday, Oct. 24, Confirmation Banquets Sunday, Oct. 25, Confirmation Ceremony 6th, 7th & 8th Grade Sunday Confirmation Orientation: Sunday, Sept. 27, Orientation, parent & students, 4 to 5:30 p.m. Youth & Sports Center Sunday Schedule: Sundays, Oct. 4 & 11, large/small groups, 4 to 5:30 p.m. Youth & Sports Center, Pier 7 Wednesday Confirmation Orientation: Wednesday, Sept. 30, Orientation in the Sanctuary 6:30 to 7:15 p.m. Wednesday Schedule: Wednesday, Oct. 7, Confirmation Family Worship, 6:30 to 7:15 p.m. in the Sanctuary Wednesdays, Oct. 21 & 28, large/small groups in the Great Hall High School Ministry The Early Bird Breakfast Club Every Thursday Starting Sept. 10, 6:45 to 7:45 a.m. Mahtomedi Coffee Cottage, 88 Mahtomedi Ave. Stillwater Starbucks, 5980 Neal Ave N, Oak Park Hgts (Every Friday, starting Sept. 11, 6:30 to 7:15 a.m.) White Bear Lake Caribou, 4th St & Hwy 61 Meet with other high school youth to begin your day in the WORD. Come for coffee, breakfast, connections and good conversations. All high school youth are welcome! Peer Ministry Meetings Sunday, Sept. 13 and Oct. 4, noon to 1:30 p.m. in Pier 7, Youth and Sports Center. This is our monthly meeting to check in, connect with fellow peer ministers, grow in our faith, and do some extended training. Come see where this transforming ministry is going and where God is working in our lives. RSVP to Jenelle Thorvilson at jthorvilson@saintandrews.org or hours ahead as lunch will be provided. 17

18 Women s Ministry Bible Study Basics 18 Proclaim Jesus Christ, Live in Christ, Serve! Wednesday mornings beginning Sept 30, or every other Saturday beginning Oct 3. We will be reading I & II Timothy to learn about friendship, having and being a mentor, and how to fight the good fight. New format: I Timothy, Sept.-Dec. There will be a workbook for you to dig into the Word on your own at home, then meet in small groups to discuss your findings, and stay for an inspirational message which sends you out the door with encouragement. II Timothy, Jan.-Feb. We will meet in the Great Hall for a time of teaching with Pastor Straiton, and move into small groups to discuss what we just learned. March April We will take a look at some of the women of the New Testament and the effect their ministry had on spreading the Good News. Register online at saintandrews.org or with a registration envelope. Call Carrin Mahmood for more information at Apps & Answers at Applebee s 2nd Friday of the month 9 p.m. Hwy 96 and Centerville Road Begins Sept. 11 For adults 21-35, come for half priced appetizers and let s tackle some questions that have been driving you crazy about the church, the Bible, your faith, etc. We ll throw around some ideas, Carrin Mahmood will share what she knows and we can engage in some great dialogue. Contact Carrin at or cmahmood@ saintandrews.org for information or to let her know you will be attending. The Gifts of Imperfection FREE TO BE ENOUGH! Third Saturdays, September May 9, 10:30 a.m. Great Hall Nancy Dorman is a licensed marriage and family therapist at MN Relational Counseling in White Bear Lake, an RN, and ELCA pastor s wife. She will lead us through Brene Brown s book The Gifts of Imperfection. Brene Brown, the author of two #1 New York Times Bestsellers, is one of today s hottest authors and public speakers. The sense of not being enough is a common experience. All of us having suffered with feelings of inadequacy and even shame at one time or another. Together we will discover how to change the perceptions that sneak into our thoughts and impact how we view God, others, and ourselves affecting personal, relational, and spiritual levels. We will explore a different theme each month from the book and relate these themes to our Christian faith. $20 covers the book, and materials for the entire year. Registration is now through Sept. 13, online at saintandrews. org or with a registration envelope. Contact Nancy at nancy@mnrelationalcounseling.com with questions. A Day Away Saturday, Nov. 7, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. At this one day retreat you will: Laugh, learn something meaningful, connect with others, feel God s love, be accepted, laugh, share meals, come away with new skills, laugh and did I mention the chocolate? Save the date and watch for details. Retreat planning team now forming; call Carrin at or cmahmood@saintandrews.org if interested in helping. Girlfriends Supper Club Be part of a supper club (8 women) that forms friendships and relationships. Meet once a month and decide if you want to go out to dinner or rotate among members homes. -Create a group of my own friends (but please give me ideas) -Be part of a group that we create for you Choose to be in a group of women: -my own age -who work outside the home -with toddlers -with grade school aged children -with high school aged children -who travel -who are retired -of various ages and interests Contact Carrin Mahmood at

19 Women s Ministry Proclaim Jesus Christ, Live in Christ, Serve! Prayer Group Be part of the Intercessory Prayer Group that prays for St. Andrew s staff, ministries, missions, and members meeting twice a month. Be part of the Creative Prayer Team that meets and prays through creative outlets (praying with color, journaling, praying with art, etc.) meeting once a month. Be part of Praying on the Go, a group that prays for our community in different locations, i.e. the mall, in neighborhoods, meeting once a month. Be part of Prayer Walkers, a group that meets to walk a few miles and pray as we go. Meeting twice a month. Contact Carrin Mahmood at cmahmood@saintandrews.org, or San Antonio Hike, Bike, Paddle Oct This trip is built to accommodate all fitness levels! We ll stay in historic San Antonio and step to the beat of wafting flamenco music as we wander the downtown River Walk before sampling our Women On The Edge adventures. Day 1-Bike the Missions National Historical Park. Explore centuries of the history and culture visiting the five missions of San Antonio. Day 2-Kayaking options will include paddling the San Antonio River and/or paddling through the city of San Antonio. Day 3-Hiking will be at Hill Country Village-Hollywood Park Walk Loop, and finish the day with WORSHIP UNDER THE SUNSET. $380 covers hotel, all adventures, and breakfasts. Travel accommodations are on your own. Contact Carrin Mahmood at cmahmood@saintandrews.org, or for more information. Women s Book Club Meeting the third Monday of each month at 11 a.m. at the Maplewood Library Conference Room Sept. Postville by Bloom Oct. Beautiful Ruins by Jess Walters Nov. - Kitchens of the Great Midwest by J. Ryan Stradal Dec. Book of your choice (maybe a great Christmas book) Girlfriends Breakfast Whether you re part of the planning or planning on taking part, you will be inspired by the Girlfriends Breakfast. Contact Joan McCormick for details or to get involved joanmccormick@comcast.net. See back page for details. Star of Wonder Christmas Event Tickets go on sale Nov. 1! Friday, Dec. 4, Candlelight Dessert 6-9 p.m. -$15 Saturday, Dec. 5, Advent Brunch 10 a.m. Noon -$15 Featuring Angi Putney, singer and song writer. Angi has an ability to create music that allows us to step outside of the daily world and focus on a message of love through a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ. Winter Sampler/ Dog-Sled Trip Thursday, Jan. 28, 4 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 30, 4 p.m. $198 25th Anniversary and Final Year! Start preparing for your winter break. A planning meeting will be held Tuesday, Jan. 5, at 7 p.m. in the Great Hall. We ll meet at St. Andrew s to carpool and then caravan up to Camp Menogyn in Grand Marais. A charter bus will be an option with 30 or more registrants. This swan song trip will include winter hiking, snow shoeing, cross country skiing, sauna, art projects (in-door and out-door), cozy fires, home-cooked meals, fun treats, journaling, quiet time, yoga, worship, and so much more. Choose additional activities (dog-sledding, massage, trip to Bearskin Resort for added cost). Register online at saintandrews.org or with a registration envelope. Deposit of $100 due by Dec.15, and final $98 due by Jan. 15. Must have 10 people registered for this trip to take place. 19

20 Music Ministry Proclaim Jesus Christ, Live in Christ, Serve! New Choir for Young Adults Beginning Wednesday, Sept. 23, under the direction of Andy Haase This choir is for high school graduates, up to age 35 the millennials. Andy is the director of choral music at Hudson High School. Call Andy at (651) if you are interested or come to the first rehearsal! The schedule and music will be tailored to appeal to this age group. We know many of this age group have sung in wonderful high school choirs, and some have sung in their college choirs as well. We hope to bring this talent into the church as a means to serve and to connect with others who share this wonderful talent. Pass the word to singers in this category. The choir will rehearse on Wednesdays, 7:30 p.m., and sing for Sanctuary worship approximately once per month. More information: facebook.com/saintandrewsmn; andrewahaase@gmail.com; or jgilbertson@saintandrews.org Welcome New Music Staff Members: Andy and Leah Andrew Haase, Director of New Choir for Young Adults Since 2001 Andrew Haase has served as Director of Choral Activities at Hudson High School in Hudson, WI. The choral program at Hudson consists of five academic choirs with over 375 singers participating in grades Haase conducts the Concert Choir and Chamber Choir and serves as Music Director for the annual musical. Haase is the Artistic Director for Home for the Holidays, Hudson High School Choral Department s annual holiday concert combined with The River City Symphony Orchestra, attracting over 2,500 audience members annually. Haase is also the founding music director and conductor of The River City Chorale based in Hudson, WI. The organization consists of the 150+ voice Chorale, Youth Choir and Ensemble Singers. These choirs perform throughout the St. Croix River Valley. Haase received his Bachelor of Arts degree in vocal music education from Luther College in Decorah, Iowa, and a Master of Music degree in Conducting and Choral Literature from Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff, AZ. Choirs under the direction of Haase have appeared at various state music educator conferences and have toured internationally to Costa Rica, Poland, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Austria, Italy, Spain and in 2016 will travel to France. Leah Abbe Bloem, Director of Orff Ensembles Leah Abbe Bloem is returning to be the director of Orff Ensembles. Leah currently teaches Orchestra at Mounds Park Academy and is thrilled to be back at St. Andrew s. She has been a member at St. Andrew s since childhood, and participated in the choirs and Orff Ensembles as a child. Leah graduated from St. Olaf College with a degree in K-12 Classroom and Instrumental Music Education in After graduating, she began teaching General Music and Band Lessons at Mounds Park Academy in St. Paul, MN and recently finished her tenth year at MPA. Leah completed her Orff Schulwerk certification at St. Thomas University. Leah is excited to be back home at St. Andrew s! 20

21 Revised Choir Schedule Wednesday Night Schedule - Information and Changes! Important changes will be made beginning this fall. Instead of 6:15 p.m., Confirmation Large Group/Worship will be held from 6:30-7:15. This has an impact on several music ensembles and youth activities: Wednesday Worship will now happen only the first Wednesday of every month at 6:30 p.m. in the Sanctuary. Large Group Confirmation will take place on the other Wednesdays. The separate Confirmation Track (offered last year) for Middle School Choir has been eliminated. Middle School Choir will be held from 5:45-6:25 p.m., with Orff preceding it at 5:20-5:45 p.m. Celebration Singers rehearsal time has been changed to 6:30-7:10 p.m. Wednesday Worship and choir rehearsals will take place in the Sanctuary building (see rooms below). Large Group Confirmation, required of all Confirmation students grades 6-8, will take place in the Great Hall. These changes to the schedule should facilitate participation in music groups and provide time for a snack before events begin for Celebration Singers and Orff grades 4 and 5, and the Middle School Choir and Orff grades 6-8. No changes have been made for Choristers (K,1), King s Messengers (2,3), and Orff (2,3). Choir Schedule *Changes in the schedule are marked in bold in the schedule below. Registration is available for children s and youth groups (K-12) at or call Dianne Nash at CHOIR OR ENSEMBLE Rehearsal Room 1st Rehearsal Sing Sunday Director Children Choristers (K,1) Wednesday 5:30-6:15 p.m. 202 Wed. Sept :30 Sunday 2 Miriam Sikora King s Messengers (2,3) Wednesday 5:30-6:15 p.m. 201 Wed. Sept :30 Sunday 1,3 Barb Wieland Orff Ensemble (2,3) Wednesday 6:20-6:45 p.m. B01 Wed. Sept. 16 as announced Leah Abbe Bloem Orff Ensemble (4,5) Wednesday 5:55-6:20 p.m. B01 Wed. Sept. 16 as announced Leah Abbe Bloem *Celebration Singers (4,5) Wednesday 6:30-7:10 p.m. 203 Wed. Sept. 16 9:00 Sunday 2,4 Jennifer Starr Youth/Grade: *Orff Ensemble (6-8) Wednesday 5:20-5:45 p.m. B01 Wed. Sept. 16 as announced Leah Abbe Bloem *Middle School Choir (6-8) Wednesday 5:45-6:25 p.m. 203 Wed. Sept. 9 10:30 Sunday 2,4 Jennifer Starr Senior High Choir (9-12) Wednesday 7:15-8:15 p.m. 202 Wed. Sept. 9 9:00 Sunday 1,3 Sue Gilsdorf Orff Ensemble (9-12) Wednesday 6:45-7:10 p.m. B01 Wed. Sept. 16 as announced Leah Abbe Bloem Adult Young Adult Choir New Dimension Singers Wednesday 7:30-9:00 p.m. Wednesday 6:15-7:20 p.m. 203 B02 Wed. Sept. 23 Wed. Sept. 2 as announced 10:30 All Andy Haase Jan Gilbertson St. Andrew s Choir Wednesday 7:30-9:00 p.m. B02 Wed. Sept. 2 9:00 & 10:30 All Jan Gilbertson Handbells Monday 7:15-8:15 p.m. B02 Mon. Sept. 14 as announced Jan Gilbertson Adult choirs and Instrumental groups: For information regarding adult groups contact Jan Gilbertson, , or jgilbertson@saintandrews.org. St. Andrew s Choir: We have room for more singers! Auditions may be scheduled with Jan Gilbertson. The audition is not long, not intimidating. We just want to hear you sing a bit. Serve by singing! New Dimension Singers: New Dimension Singers welcomes new members. If you like to sing, please join us. No audition! Singers are welcome in all sections. Serve by singing! Handbells: Substitutes may be needed. If you are interested, call Jan Gilbertson. St. Andrew s Orchestra: Charles Gray, director, is from St. Olaf College. Contact Jan Gilbertson or Bill Chouinard for information. Jan Gilbertson, , or jgilbertson@saintandrews.org Bill Chouinard, , or bchouinard@saintandrews.org 21

22 Music Ministry Proclaim Jesus Christ, Live in Christ, Serve! Dianne Nash Receives ACE Award Dianne was the recipient of the ACE Award (Advocate for Choral Excellence), given by the American Choral Directors Association of Minnesota at the annual Summer Dialogue Conference. The ACE award is designed to celebrate the efforts of people across Minnesota who have done outstanding work for their communities, serving the choral art and helps bring to light the creative ways people have nurtured the choral art. The ACE award increases the awareness of the ACDA- MN membership of the quality work being performed on a regular basis throughout our state. The ACE award provides a way for each District to celebrate their members work, increasing awareness and building on our statewide history of grassroots development. Dianne provides administrative support for the St. Andrew s Music Department. As the daughter of a music teacher, and a singer in St. Andrew s Choir, she truly understands the needs of our music staff. Although a large part of her time is spent in support of the music department, she also provides support in several other areas of ministry at St. Andrew s. Her music duties at St. Andrew s include these: Schedules all of our rehearsals and events so that the rooms and equipment are ready at every rehearsal, Sunday services, and concerts. She works magic with a complicated schedule of events in this large congregation. Maintains our music library and folders for our choirs and orchestra. Facilitates an ever-increasing number of outside concerts for St. Andrew s by working in advance with the group that is performing - even anticipating their needs before they know they need it. As part of Dianne s position with outside events, she makes a significant contribution to the success of the ACDA- MN conference and events that are held at St. Andrew s several times a year. Dianne is highly capable, efficient, tireless, always gracious - and goes above and beyond to assure that all of the details are covered in the planning process and during the events. She is respected and loved by all who work with her, and most deserving of the ACDA-MN ACE award. We are proud that she is part of St. Andrew s ministry! 22 Celebrating 33 Years - Sounds Like Love Choral Festival! Singing, dancing, worshipping, Bible study, and fellowship will be celebrated at St. Andrew s Nov , 2015 at the Sounds Like Love Choral Festival. The weekend will again welcome John Jacobson as the Festival Choir director. John brings with him energy, a love for music, and a passion for teaching and sharing that music. His love of God shines through his directing and fellowshipping with the students. We are expecting 500+ students and leaders to register for the weekend event. We will be asking St. Andrew s members to host students and leaders in their homes for the weekend again this year. Amy Ness will be the housing coordinator for the event. We will be taking registration on Sunday mornings beginning in September after Rally Day. Please sign up to host participants in your home. Amy can be reached at amyn@saintandrews.org or for more information. The mass choir will participate in two Sunday morning services on Nov. 15 and then will perform the full concerts on 1 and 2:30 p.m. that afternoon. Please watch the Proclaim and bulletin for ticket information. If you want more information contact Jo Barrett at jo.barrett@youthencounter.org, or go to www. youthencounter.org/sll.

23 Save the dates! More concerts and ticket information will be added later. Sunday, Oct. 18, 3 p.m. St. Paul Chamber Orchestra Tickets: Friday, Oct. 30, 6 p.m. Tricks & Treats with the Mighty Organ Bill Chouinard, organist Music Series Monday, Jan. 11, 7 p.m. Metro East Honor Choir Concert & Jazz Bands Sunday, Jan. 31, 3 p.m. St. Paul Chamber Orchestra Tickets: Thursday, Friday, Feb. 4 and 5, 7 p.m. Middle School Musical Saturday, April 16, 2 p.m. Greater Twin City Youth Symphonies Concert Sunday April 17, 4 p.m. Two Rivers Chorale Concert Brahms Requiem, two pianos Saturday, April 30, 7 p.m. St. Olaf College/Magnum Chorum Sunday, Nov. 1, 4 p.m. National Lutheran Choir All Saints Concert Thursday, Nov. 5, 8 p.m. Stillwater High School Choral Festival Sunday, Nov. 15, 1 & 2:30 p.m. Sounds Like Love Concerts Friday & Saturday, Nov Fall Conference American Choral Directors Association Sunday, Dec. 13, 3:30, 6 p.m. St. Andrew s Christmas Festival Friday, Dec. 18, 7:30 p.m. Augustana College (SD) Christmas Vespers Tickets: and at the door Sunday, Feb. 21, 3 p.m. Wayzata Symphony Orchestra Concert Friday, Saturday, Feb. 26 and 27, 7 p.m. Senior High Dessert Theater Sunday, March 6, 4 p.m. River City Chorale & University of Minnesota Chorus Sunday, March 13, 3 p.m. St. Paul Chamber Orchestra Tickets: Thursday, March 31, 7 p.m. White Bear Lake H.S. Choral Concert Thursday April 7, 7 p.m. White Bear Lake H.S. Band Concert Friday, May 6, 7:30 p.m. Twin Cities AGO Concert Saturday, May 7, 7 p.m. ACDA Honor Choir Concert (Gr 4,5,6) Sunday, May 15, 4 p.m. Metropolitan Symphony Orchestra Concert Free-will offering Sunday, May 22, 3 p.m. St. Paul Chamber Orchestra Tickets: Music Staff Choristers: Miriam Sikora, director King s Messengers: Barb Wieland, director Celebration Singers and Middle School Choir: Jennifer Starr, director Senior High Choir: Sue Gilsdorf, director Orff Ensembles: Leah Abbe Bloem Young Adult Choir: Andy Haase, director St. Andrew s Choir, New Dimension Singers, and Handbells: Jan Gilbertson, director Bill Chouinard, organist: Kristin Chouinard, pianist St. Andrew s Orchestra: Charles Gray, director, is from St. Olaf College. Please contact Jan Gilbertson or Bill Chouinard for information. Dianne Nash: Administrative Support Jan Gilbertson, , or jgilbertson@saintandrews.org. Bill Chouinard, , or bchouinard@saintandrews.org 23

24 Vision Slovakia Proclaim Jesus Christ, Live in Christ, Serve! Vacation Bible School in Martin, Slovakia On July 16, 25 travelers from St. Andrew s and five partner congregations flew to Martin, Slovakia to teach Vacation Bible School and Peer Ministry. We flew non-stop to Paris and then to Budapest where we rode a bus to Martin, Slovakia. We checked into our hotel in Martin and from there we were provided with a goulash meal. It was warm and muggy at this point. Little did we know that this weather was mild compared to what was to follow! On Saturday morning, we were given a tour of the new middle school and high school which will be operated by the Bible School. The building originally housed a Communist propaganda publishing house. The building, which is three stories high, is adjacent to the Center for Christian Education. The building is being completely renovated with two crews working around the clock. Their intention is to have three classrooms ready by the start of school in the fall and the rest of the building to be completed by October. After the tour, Bohdan Hrobon, the director of the Center for Christian Education, gave us an overview of the history of the school and plans for the future. We then went on to meet our helpers, find our classrooms, and get ready for class on Monday. On Sunday morning, we went to church at the Martin Lutheran Church. The service was simultaneously translated into English for us. The church was built in 1735 and is beautiful! The service was an inspiration to us through the message and the uplifting singing of the congregation. The theme of our week was Lord, Teach Us to Pray! Every day, our students learned more about the meaning of the Lord s Prayer. Each day, we would meet our students and go to opening exercises. There the students would watch a drama emphasizing the Bible story for the day, and we would sing many songs. The songs were often action songs and they had lots of fun singing. They learned most of the songs in English and had a great time doing so. Following opening exercises, we would go to the craft room and complete a different craft each day. Then it was back to our classroom where the students learned the Lord s Prayer and a memory verse for the day. We also tied in Bible lessons the burning bush, the parting of the Red Sea, Manna from heaven, the Ten Commandments, and the Ascension. All of this activity was followed by games outside. A class of first and second graders showing off their dog hand puppets from their craft class Our students had a kite-making project they worked on each day. It included pictures to demonstrate the different parts of the Lord s Prayer along with the text in Slovak. At the end of the week, their kites were completed and they loved attempting to fly them! At the end of the week, we had the Vacation Bible School program. It is usually held outside in the square by the church. However, there was a terrific thunderstorm so we held the program in the church. The little ones sat in the front of the church and the older children were in the balcony. They presented their memorized Bible verses and the Lord s Prayer. They sang with much enthusiasm! At the end of the program, all the teachers sang the Lord s Prayer. It was very moving and a perfect ending to the week. One thing that hasn t been touched on was the weather in Martin. Many days the temps were in the 90 s with very high humidity. There was no air conditioning. However, we kept going by thinking and praying I can do all things through God who strengthens me. Our presence in Martin and teaching Vacation Bible School was very much appreciated. This marked the 17th year of the relationship between the Bible School and St. Andrew s. During that time, things have dramatically changed and improved for the better. The people there are not just satisfied with the ways things are they are constantly reaching out and looking for ways to reach all the people and help them open their hearts to learning about God. Judy Gardner, partner congregation in Omaha, Nebraska 24

25 Vision Slovakia Proclaim Jesus Christ, Live in Christ, Serve! Peer Ministry: the New Generation of Youth Leadership in Slovakia Last year Vision Slovakia began the next generation of ministry in Slovakia with Peer Ministry. We began with nine students who had completed their second of five years in the Lutheran High School. Together we struggled through language, culture and even faith differences. By the end of the week we all had grown and changed in our understanding of God and each other. For the past year this band of nine met every month to continue their training with two adults from the school, the School Pastor and Guidance Counselor. They were reaching out to their classmates, helping them with their problems, and creating a culture of acceptance. What they have started has caught on as this summer we doubled the size of the class. Abby Arko, a senior at North St. Paul, and Josh Anderson, a junior at Mahtomedi, and I traveled together with the VBS teachers to begin phase two of this ministry. What we encountered were 17 teenagers who are not too different than those here at our church and in the community. They were eager to learn, love to laugh, are exploring what it means to be a follower of Jesus in their world, and questioning what their future looks like. They also have a unique opportunity as the Gymnasium (High School) is growing in size as well as opportunities. These youth help to set the tone for the school and are using the Good Samaritan as their example. Using the example of the good Samaritan from Jesus parable, A pyramid of our six VBS helpers and Peer Ministry leaders from 15 to 19 years old: Conner Olson, J P Kilbride, Josh Anderson, Jordan Lunders, Abby Arko, Morgan Lunders they look for those who are in pain or feeling left out, they take action and get help when needed. They continue to follow up with them and walk alongside them. This ministry is shaping how others will experience Gymnasium. The Holy Spirit is busy there as more and more youth from the local public schools are transferring to the Lutheran Bi-lingual school to improve their English, yet they are also living in a community of grace and acceptance. One thing that I brought back with me, other than a new pair of shoes, is the understanding of what God can do when we are faithful. God can do amazing things when we are not faithful as well; God s actions don t depend on us. And yet throughout scripture Jesus is talking to the disciples about their faith. When people are healed, he says it is their faith or the faith of others that heals them. The people in Slovakia have been faithful. Time and time again they have gone out on a limb, not knowing how something would be accomplished, but having the faith that if God wants it to happen, it will happen. In this faith they have built a school, they have shown Christ s love, forgiveness and mercy to the town and to the government. They have reached families and children that may never have heard of Christ. It is inspiring to be part of the miracle that is taking place in Slovakia. Erin Morris, Diaconal Minister of Faith Engagement Erin Morris with our two Peer Ministry leaders from St. Andrew s, Abby Arko and Josh Anderson, following worship in this beautiful Slovak Lutheran church The Peer Ministry class representing seventeen new high school students 25

26 Mission Jamaica Proclaim Jesus Christ, Live in Christ, Serve! More Great News About Mission Jamaica 2016 Thank you all who have gotten your registrations/down payments in. We are getting a nice blend of seasoned missionaries with some excited first timers. Now is the time to register - we need you to stand up and be counted because the sooner we know who is coming and when, the more efficiently we can arrange projects, hotel, food, ground transportation, as well as the least expensive airfare. Our trip costs listed below are estimates (at time of printing) with important deadlines as follows: ~$150 non-refundable deposit due Oct. 1 with completed online registration (please go to to register) ~MD, PA, NP, or RN- Medical credentialing paperwork submitted to the Mission Jamaica office by Oct. 15 ~$550 non-refundable deposit Nov. 1 ~Final balance (non-refundable) due 60 days prior to travel ~Watch for information on the full team orientation in November and team meeting dates and times to be determined. ~DOCTORS & DENTISTS WE CAN T INCLUDE CLINICS WITHOUT YOU. Please contact us for details! Jan (Trip D) $2,045 / double occupancy This is our first Kingston team where we will serve with people from North Dakota, Iowa, and Wisconsin, as well as various Minnesota cities. You will have the opportunity to experience new Jamaican friends, a medical clinic, and construction projects of cement, dirt, paint, wood, nails, shovels, early morning feeding program, and hundreds of loving, smiling, energetic children. This trip will also include digging and laying the foundation for a Ja Bode home that will be finished in March (it s pretty cool)! Jan. 30-Feb. 6 (Trip E) $2,045 / double occupancy Serving in Montego Bay, this multi-church team includes people from Arizona as well as Amor Wisc and Columbia Heights. This group will be building a Ja Bode house, repairs/remodeling as well as caring for, playing with, and loving many children and young adults with disabilities at WestHaven Orphanage, doing repairs, playing soccer, and hanging out at Clifton Boys Home. We hope to serve at a mobile medical clinic. An MD is still needed (along with other medical and non-medical support ). March (Trip K) $2,120 / double occupancy This is our Family Trip (and includes anyone else who wants to come). The ultimate spring break with purpose! You and the kids will fly away to Never Neverland, experience a whole new world, and find yourself whistling while you work side-byside with local people and everyone else who comes without their family. We will experience all the fun things they do in January (at this point maybe not the medical clinic, but we re working on it) plus the blessing of the completed Ja bode home. The bonus is that we all become one fabulous extended family though our serving God s people. These are the moments when it is the happiest place on earth! If you are considering joining us, or interested in learning more about Mission Jamaica, please give Pattianne a call, text or . She would love to buy you a cup of coffee and chat: , pdemaray@saintandrews.org. 26

27 St. Andrew s Staff Directory P A S T O R A L Mike Carlson, Lead Pastor (651) mcarlson@saintandrews.org Sarah Breckenridge, Executive Pastor (651) sbreckenridge@saintandrews.org Brian Norsman, Pastor of Children, Youth, and Family Ministry (651) bnorsman@saintandrews.org Cindy Senarighi, Pastor of Congregational Care (651) csenarighi@saintandrews.org John Straiton, Discipleship Pastor (651) jstraiton@saintandrews.org Tyler Strom, Intern Pastor (651) tstrom@saintandrews.org A D M I N I S T R A T I O N John Swanson, Chief Operating Officer (651) jswanson@saintandrews.org Patty Ingberg, Chief Financial Officer (651) pingberg@saintandrews.org Mary Pat Moutrie, Director of Administration and Human Resources; Notary Public Services (651) mpmoutrie@saintandrews.org Amy Ness, Financial Support (651) amyn@saintandrews.org Lori Goodroad, Executive Assistant (651) lgoodroad@saintandrews.org C A R E C O N N E C T I O N Dana Gabor, Parish Nurse (651) dana.gabor@saintandrews.org Lisa Grundtner (651) lgrundtner@saintandrews.org CHILDREN AND FAMILY MINISTRY (Birth-5th Grade) Kim C. Lewin, Director of Children and Family Ministry (651) klewin@saintandrews.org Erika Hiland, Children s Minister of 4th and 5th grade Education (651) ehiland@saintandrews.org Ellen Skaja, Children s Minister of Elementary Education (651) eskaja@saintandrews.org Greta Bahrke, Children s Minister of Preschool Education (651) gbahrke@saintandrews.org Nicki Pelofske, Children s Minister of Great Hall Education npelofske@saintandrews.org Lisa Heyer, Baptism Ministry & Registrations (651) lheyer@saintandrews.org Masako Kedrowski, Nursery Coordinator (651) mkedrowski@saintandrews.org C O M M U N I C A T I O N S Tara McAdams tmcadams@saintandrews.org Joe Holmberg (651) jholmberg@saintandrews.org FACILITIES Dale Bakken Director dbakken@saintandrews.org F A I T H E N G A G E M E N T Erin Morris, Diaconal Minister (651) emorris@saintandrews.org F R O N T L I N E Carrin Mahmood, Director (651) cmahmood@saintandrews.org F U N E R A L S Lisa Grundtner (651) lgrundtner@saintandrews.org M E N S M I N I S T R Y Dianne Nash, Support, Notary (651) dnash@saintandrews.org MISSIONS - INTERNATIONAL MISSION JAMAICA Jeff Peterson, Director (651) jeffp@saintandrews.org VISION SLOVAKIA Paul Berge, Director (651) pberge@saintandrews.org Dianne Nash, Support, Notary Public Services (651) dnash@saintandrews.org M U S I C M I N I S T R Y Jan Gilbertson (651) jgilbertson@saintandrews.org Bill Chouinard (651) bchouinard@saintandrews.org Sara Renner, Contemporary Worship Director srenner@saintandrews.org Dianne Nash, Support, Notary (651) dnash@saintandrews.org St. Andrew s Village (651) W E D D I N G S Carole Lundell (651) clundell@saintandrews.org W O M E N S M I N I S T R Y Carrin Mahmood, Director (651) cmahmood@saintandrews.org WORSHIP VOLUNTEERS Carole Lundell (651) worshipcoordinator@saintandrews.org Y O U T H & F A M I L Y M I N I S T R Y (6th-12th grade) Brian Norsman, Pastor of Children, Youth, and Family Ministry (651) bnorsman@saintandrews.org Jenelle Thorvilson, High School & Young Adult Minister (651) jthorvilson@saintandrews.org Josh Carlson, Middle School Youth Minister (651) jcarlson@saintandrews.org Mary Post, Administrative (651) mpost@saintandrews.org Confirmation, Pastor Brian Norsman Administrative and Registration: Mary Post, or mpost@saintandrews.org COMMUNITY RESOURCE CENTER Executive Director Liz Schreier, lschreier@saintandrews.org Help Line Jen Thompson, center@saintandrews.org Volunteer Coordinator Debbie Larson, dlarson@saintandrews.org Case Manager Kris Mason, kmason@saintandrews.org C H U R C H C O U N C I L Carol Bufton, President David Kroschel, Vice President Jay Breidinger, Treasurer Myron Goeser, Secretary Keith Beckman Kris Bowditch-Kirschhoffer Hayley Boyd Sarah Ecker Matt Langer Bill Miller Diana Rehnberg Kathy Stark Rebecca Taibl 27

28 900 STILLWATER ROAD Proclaim Jesus MAHTOMEDI MN Christ, Live in Christ, Serve! NON-PROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE PAID TWIN CITIES, MN PERMIT NO ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED TIME-VALUED MAIL saintandrews.org/girlfriends 28