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e are excited to introduce Faith Lutheran Church’s new logo and tag line! Along with a new logo we are also debuting a more user friendly website! In May 2016 as part of the comprehensive communications plan it was determined Faith needed a volunteer Marketing Team and IT Team. The teams moved forward by developing a new Faith Lutheran Logo and securing a new website platform. Thank you to Melonie Elvebak, Aaron Kopel, Doug Krukowski, Tami Peterson, Brooke Struck, Michael Deering, and Jesse Bergstrom, for all the time you have put into these projects. If Information Technology (IT), Marketing or Communications is an interest/job of yours and would like to be part of the teams, please contact Pastor Christine at [email protected]. MONTHLY NEWSLETTER OF FAITH LUTHERAN CHURCH … in this issue September 2016 PASTOR’S MESSAGE STRENGTHEN YOUR FAITH CONNECT, GROW, SERVE CHILDREN / YOUTH SERVE OPPORTUNIES
Transcript of in this issue - Home - Faith Lutheran Church · Reclaiming the “L” Word: Renewing the Church...
e are excited to introduce Faith Lutheran Church’s new logo and tag line! Along with a new logo we are also debuting a more user friendly website! In May 2016 as part of
the comprehensive communications plan it was determined Faith needed a volunteer Marketing Team and IT Team. The teams moved forward by developing a new Faith Lutheran Logo and securing a new website platform. Thank you to Melonie Elvebak, Aaron Kopel, Doug Krukowski, Tami Peterson, Brooke Struck, Michael Deering, and Jesse Bergstrom, for all the time you have put into these projects. If Information Technology (IT), Marketing or Communications is an interest/job of yours and would like to be part of the teams, please contact Pastor Christine at [email protected].
MONTHLY NEWSLETTER OF FAITH LUTHERAN CHURCH
… in this issue
September 2016
PASTOR’S MESSAGE
STRENGTHEN YOUR FAITH
CONNECT, GROW, SERVE
CHILDREN / YOUTH
SERVE OPPORTUNIES
…Come Connect, Grow, & Serve with us!…
Dear People of Faith, I hope you have had a good summer. Your church staff and volunteer leaders are excited to have another program year begin. We may not have something for everyone, but we do have something for you. We have a place for you to learn, serve and share the Gospel of Jesus Christ. We have opportunities for you to make a difference in the life of an individual and to make a difference in the world. We are excited to roll out our new logo and to continue to practice inclusive grace and contagious love. In the next few weeks multiple opportunities for engagement at Faith will be made known. I invite you choose one or two involvements that you can commit yourself to. There will be fun and exciting options for you to connect with others, grow in your faith and make a difference in the world. Please check out the opportunities listed in this newsletter and watch for other announcements and promotions. Thank you for being part of our Faith community. May God bless and guide us into the 2016-2017 program year. Pastor Dale
...Pastor’s Message...
Fall Festival at Faith What better way to celebrate the arrival of fall and get to know other Faith members and families than to have a PARTY?! All members are invited to our Fall Festival, Saturday, October 1st from 5-8 pm to experience an evening of great fun, music, food, games, and of course conversation! The main event will include a yummy beef brisket meal complete with delicious side dishes, S’mores around the bonfire, games for young and old alike, and much, much more! Stay tuned for more details... Tickets will go on sale starting Sunday, September 4th after the service and after all remaining services (Sunday and Wednesday) leading up to the BIG event or you can get your tickets at the church office during business hours.
SEEKING 6-Week Small Group
H.O.S.T.S.!!! Do you have a home that could fit 8-10
people around a DVD player? If so, you
are a perfect fit to serve as a H.O.S.T this
year for our Fall All- Congregational DVD
series!
Register to host on-line under “small
groups.”
Choose the night and the kind of group
that works best for you, and we’ll link you
with 6-8 wonderful adults from Faith for
our 6-week All- Congregational Fall
“Soulkeeping” Small Group DVD Series
beginning the week of October 2nd. Hope
to have you participate this Fall!
ADULT MINISTRY FAIR
On Sunday, September 18th after each
worship service the Life, Growth and
Mission team will be holding a Ministry
Fair to showcase small group options,
ministry opportunities, Bible studies,
choirs, etc. We are looking for leaders
of groups to promote their offerings.
Table space will be made available.
Participants will supply information,
decorations, a treat (optional), and
hosts for their table. If interested
contact Susie Watts
or 952-442-2101 to reserve a spot or
ask questions. The church will be open
Saturday, September 17th from
9 am – 12 pm for setting up. Please
take advantage of this opportunity to
promote your group or ministry.
Wednesday
Morning
Women’s
Book Group
Wednesday at
10:30 am
beginning
September 7th
Back by popular
demand. We’re not a book club – we
discuss chapter by chapter. We’re more
a group study with reading assignments
usually a chapter at a time.
We meet as a group of women for the
purpose of reading a book together. The
bonus outcome is that we become
friends and share our own life stories as
they relate to the current author's
story. Our desire is to remain a "small
group", but we always have room for one
or two more and the start of a new book
is a great time to jump in.
Reclaiming the “L” Word: Renewing
the Church from Its Lutheran Core,
by Kelly A. Fryer – a 7 week study
beginning September 7 th.
From the author. “This little book is
primarily written for those who call
themselves Lutheran and, specifically, those
who are members of ELCA congregations,
and it is intended to help us answer central
questions: Who are we? What DOES it
mean to be a Lutheran today, anyway? And,
why does it matter?"
Book Cost: Reclaiming the “L” Word
book costs $13. Or on kindle for $3.99.
Contact: Mary Toufar;
Tuesday Bible Study
Beginning on September 13 the
Tuesday Bible Study group will be
discovering all the incredible
happenings after the resurrection of
our Lord. We will be viewing the DVD
"ACTS" and discussing as we go.
During our discussions we will more
clearly understand what the apostles
endured as they began the work of
spreading the gospel.
This study will take us about 6
weeks. It is perfect for those new to
bible study as well as those who have
been studying for years. Something
new is discovered each week as we
discuss, learn and share Scripture.
We meet each Tuesday at 9:15 am at
Westview Acres in the Fireside Room
as well as Tuesday evening at 7:00 pm
at Faith in the Fireside Room. Choose
the time that best fits your schedule.
Plan to join us, everyone is welcome.
For more information or questions
please contact Mary Westlund at (952)
657-2239 or
Strengthen your faith
Thursday Morning
Men’s Text Study
Group
All men of the congrega-
tion are invited to attend the
Thursday Morning Men's Text
Study on Thursday mornings
from 8:00 -9:00 am in the Fire-
side Room. The preaching pas-
tor for the up coming Sunday
leads a study of the scriptures
for that week.
Thursday Pastor Book
Study
Join Pastor Dale and Pastor
Christine for the pastor’s book
study continuing the first three
weeks in September with: “Falling
Upward: A Spirituality for the Two
Halves of Life”.
Thursday mornings from 9:30-
11:00 am in the Fireside Room.
What is life about once you
hit age 50?
How can you make the 2nd
half of life more meaningful
and intentional than the first?
Explains why the second half
of life can and should be full
of spiritual richness.
Offers a new view of how
spiritual growth happens
where loss is gain.
Come as you are able!
My name is Christine Ruth, and I’m the Associate Pastor at Faith Lutheran here in Waconia. I don’t know about you, but as a busy woman in a “crazy” season of life, I find it difficult to make time in my schedule for developing and deepening Christian friendships. My efforts to balance my roles wife, mother, friend, and employee often crowd out my need to focus on my own Christian growth and identity. Between attending soccer games, work events, and juggling other demands for my time, I often find myself getting lost in the shuffle! Consequently, I launched a ministry here last January at Faith for 20-40-something women called “Mom’s Connect.” I have been facilitating groups like this for the past 15 years, and they have been the most rewarding parts of my life. The purpose of this ministry will be twofold: 1) to build Christian friendships, and 2) to deepen spiritual growth. This year, we are excited to offer both an AM group and a PM group. The AM group will meet weekly Friday mornings beginning Friday, September 23rd. The PM group will meet the 2nd and 4th Monday nights of the month beginning Monday, September 26th from 7:00-8:30pm. We will keep the reading portions short (less than 30-minutes a week) and will only include one or two chapters of a book per week. You’re welcome to try it out for a few weeks or commit for the rest of the semester. The “Mom’s Connect” leadership team will work hard to create an authentic, non-judgmental environment for women, who may be in a wide variety of places in their Christian journey. Anyone in the community is invited to attend. Some of you may have no faith background whatsoever, and we welcome you! This will be a great place to explore, ask questions, and just be yourself. Our first book is entitled “Aha: The God Moment That Changes Everything” by Ken Idleman – an excellent book on finding your own voice and relationships with God in a world that pressures us to conform. You can buy it here at church for $12.00 or purchase the book on your own. You can register on-line here: Register for AM or PM "Moms Connect" on our website. Childcare is available during the AM group for $5/week (pre-registration required) and will be available on-site. If you have any questions, please feel free to e-mail me at [email protected]. I hope that you will prayerfully consider making time in your life for YOU. Please feel free to contact me with any questions. We look forward to meeting you! Warmly,
Pastor Christine Ruth Cadee Winnee(AM) Tara Koosman(PM) Lynne Fredrickson(AM) Sarah Hartwig (PM) Heather Rodning (PM)
Greetings Faith Lutheran Moms!
Would you like to build friendships here at church and find an easy way to grow in your faith? If
so, PLEASE join Pastor Christine and the “Mom’s Connect” leadership team as we launch our
new AM and PM “Mom’s Connect” groups this Fall!
Join us for our first book study, “Aha: The God Moment That Changes Everything.” We've
all had "aha!" moments in our lives, when a sudden revelation surprises us with insight. This book
helps us to experience these same sorts of “aha’s!" in our spiritual lives - to draw us closer to God
and to change our lives through: Awakening, Honesty, and Action.
Join us Friday Mornings from 9:30-11:00am beginning September 23rd or the 2nd and 4th
Monday Night of the Month from 7:00-8:30pm beginning September 26th to build friendships
and grow in our faith. Childcare available for the AM group for $5/family with pre-registration.
Please contact Pastor Christine at [email protected] or register on-line: Register
for Fall 2016 "Mom's Connect" .
Are You a 20-40-something Aged Mom?
W ould you like to start your school year with
balance, focus, and to stay connected with
your soul? Join us for just 6-weeks for our
Faith Lutheran ALL
Congregational DVD Series.
Consider carving out just 1 ½
hours each week to meet with
your neighbors and grow in your
faith starting the week of
October 2nd in a neighborhood
near you! Join with neighbors to
watch a short DVD clip, and to
engage in meaningful discussion
on what it means to care for
one’s soul in everyday life.
We’ve have ordered 25 copies of “Soulkeeping” by John
Ortberg and are looking for H.O.S.T.S. What better
way to connect in meaningful relationships and grow in
faith at Faith Lutheran?
4 Easy Ways YOU can get Involved:
Choose one night that you can set aside for
“spiritual exercise.” (Groups will be held on a
variety of weeknights nad weekends.)
Consider serving as a H.O.S.T. (need a DVD
player and space for 8-10 in your home)
Consider facilitating a discussion (optional
facilitator trainings held after church
September 11th)
Consider just bringing the beer/wine/snacks or just
hanging out to learn
This is an AWESOME introduction to community life
at Faith Lutheran. You won’t be disappointed! E-mail
or call Pastor Christine Ruth for more
information at [email protected].
SEEKING 6-Week Small Group H.O.S.T.S.!!!
Do you have a home that could fit 8-10 people around a
DVD player? If so, you are a perfect fit to serve as a
H.O.S.T this year for our Fall All- Congregational DVD
series!
If these 4 H.O.S.T. criteria describe you, we would love to
have you unlock your gifts at Faith Lutheran. Register to
host at www.waconiafaithlutheran.com.
Choose the night and the kind of group that works best
for you, and we’ll link you with 6-8 wonderful adults from
Faith for our 6-week All- Congregational Fall
“Soulkeeping” Small Group DVD Series beginning the
week of October 2nd. Hope to have you participate this
Fall!
What is a H.O.S.T.?
H = Have a heart for people
O = Open your place (meet in
a home, coffeehouse,
restaurant, or workplace)
S = serve a snack
T= turn on a DVD
There’s a choir for you! 'Shout joyfully to the LORD, all the earth; Break forth and sing for joy and sing praises'. Psalm 98:4
The Faith Choir would like to extend a warm welcome to all new and returning members. We
rehearse Wednesdays from 8:00-9:00 p.m. in the sanctuary and sing two Sundays per month. Rehearsals begin September 14th and we sing in worship September 18th. Faith Choir is open to all singers age high school through adult and we are always looking for new members.
Contact director Aaron Olson at [email protected] or the church office 952-442-2101 with questions.
FAITHFUL RINGERS
If you are looking for a way to
share your musical talents please
consider joining us for Handbell
Choir. Our first rehearsal will be
September 13th. We rehearse from
6:30-7:30 on Tuesdays and share our
talents during the worship services once a
month and during special services through-
out the year. If you have questions, please
contact Lisa Roddy at
Kindergarten – 4th Grade
Attention all children in
kindergarten through 4th
grade: join us for Kid's
Club Choir beginning
Tuesday September 20th at
5:30pm in Steiner Hall. We
sing fun Christian songs with lots of ac-
tion. Register online @
www.waconiafaithlutheran.com Questions
call Cadee Winnie at 757.692.8300.
5th - 8th Grade All 5th – 8th Graders are invited to join Joyful Noise Singers. This year Joyful Noise will rehearse on Wednesdays from
5:30 – 6:00, and sing in worship on Sundays once every 4-6 weeks during the school year. It is our hope that the “Singers” will engage with the whole Wednesday night line-up. Register online @ www.waconiafaithlutheran.com
PRIME TIME BAND
If you would like to share your gift of
singing, playing guitar, piano, bass or drums,
please consider joining the Prime Time
Band!
The Prime Time Band leads worship at
Faith's Wednesday night Prime Time
Worship service beginning Wednesday,
September 14th @ 6:07pm.
The Band rehearses the 4th Monday of
each month from 7:30 - 9:00 PM
We would love to have you join us! We
can NEVER have TO MANY musicians!
Contact Jeanine Kruschke at
The PRIME TIME BAND is in GREAT need for a piano player to join our team!
This person must be able to read chords
along with sheet music.
The Prime Time Band rehearses the 4th
Monday of each month from 7:30 – 9:00pm
and leads worship Wednesday evenings for
the Prime Time service from 6:00 – 7:00pm.
Please contact Jeanine Kruschke at 952-
649-8841 or [email protected] for
more information or to volunteer!
Do you love to sing, have a musical talent, interested in
learning how to run the sound equipment?
A NEW Youth Praise Team for
students in grades 6th–12th is beginning this Fall at Faith!
You don't have to be an opera
singer or an accomplished instrumentalist to be part of the program. What I do ask for is a
commitment to praising the Lord through your musical talents and a
commitment to the team you’re joining. I hope that you will join
us in praising God through music.
Rehearsals will be the 2nd and 4th Monday of each month from 6:00
– 7:30pm beginning Monday, Sept. 12th.
A schedule will be put together to
lead worship during Wednesday Prime Time Services once the
Team is ready and confident in our music. The Youth Praise Team
will not lead every week!
Contact Jeanine Kruschke at [email protected] or 952-
649-8841 and let me know if you’re planning on joining or for
more information!
I look forward to hearing from you soon! Jeanine Kruschke
“FitSpirit Exercise” "Justice" Justice. We hear and read the word quite often in the news these days. It’s one of those words that we use frequently, but seldom do we spend much time considering its definition and the context of its use. In my context as a police chaplain, a retired police officer, and as a Lutheran pastor, I experience the use of the word justice in situations frequently surrounded by suffering and death. I also experience the word as it defines fundamental principles of my two professional career paths: Law Enforcement / Criminal Justice and Lutheran Ministry / Social Justice. All too often in my work I see the world presenting these two principles, criminal justice and social justice, as conflicting ideas. I feel it is a great injustice to present these ideas in opposition to each other. Normally I try and keep these “FitSpirit” exercises light and easy to do. But this message is different. It is a heavy topic that requires some heavy lifting to gain valuable understanding. I want you to do three things: 1. Describe the context of the word justice in your life. (As I did above). 2. Define what the word justice means to you in your specific context. 3. Share what you have learned with someone you trust and ask for their feedback. And for extra credit for the over-achievers out there, the bible (my version anyway) uses the word justice 170 times. Compare how your context and definitions compare to those presented in scripture. If everyone spent a little time trying to gain a better understanding of what justice means to them personally, it may help us have healthier conversations as we talk about this wonderful word. Take Care, Pastor Dan Carlson
OU
TREA
CH
“How did I get so lucky to have my heart awakened to others and their suffering? “ ~ Pema Chödrön
To be so lucky…it is a curious question. One that suggests a mindset which sees such an awakening as good fortune, personal benefit, even blessing. There are indeed many such gifts for people working with people who suffer and yet, it is also normal to be affected by the intensity of the work. Scholars call this “compassion fatigue”. What does compassion fatigue look like? Symptoms include hopelessness, constant stress and anxiety, decreased productivity, and feelings of incompetency and self-doubt. For people who
work with people experiencing homelessness, those in crisis, or survivors of trauma, the most important part of coping with the intensity of the work is to acknowledge it will affect you. Recognizing that it is “normal” to be affected by this type of work is the most important coping skill that you can give to yourself. You are not alone. It is okay to feel outraged, horrified, shocked, saddened, or vulnerable. On September 24, 1-4pm Anissa Keys, founder and owner of Arubah Emotional Health Services will be speaking about Compassion Fatigue at Colonial Church in Edina, located at 6200 Colonial Way, Edina MN 55436. She has a passion for bringing support to individuals and families who are most under-served; and cares deeply about connecting physical health with spiritual and emotional well-being. This free event is sponsored by Beacon Interfaith Housing Collaborative, and Families Moving For-ward. If you have volunteered with FMF or want to learn more about compassion fatigue, you are welcome to attend. Registration is required and space is limited. Visit www.beaconinterfaith.org/host-coordinators and click on Host Volunteer Training flyer; or contact [email protected] to register on line, or call 651-789-6260 x205 for more information or to sign up. For local carpool to the event, contact Gretchen Pierskalla [email protected] or 952.442.1050.
Our Next hosting of Families Moving Forward at Faith is October 23-30, 2016.
…Common Hope, Guatemala…
W e have an amazing
mission trip opportunity
through our international
ministry partner – Common Hope. A
group from Faith Lutheran will be
traveling to Guatemala on March
4-11, 2017. This corresponds with
Waconia Schools’ spring break. This
trip will include many facets of
Common Hope’s work. We’ll build a
house. We will do social work
visits. We’ll visit our sponsored
children. We’ll venture into the
schools, and we’ll do a “day in the
life” of a typical family. We’ll visit
rural villages and we’ll spend a lot of
time in the beautiful city of
Antigua. We will also have time to do
a “cultural activity” and other fun
things, in addition to the mission
work. This will be a life-changing trip
and you will not regret going! All-
inclusive expenses for this trip are
roughly $2100 per person. However,
Common Hope will assist us with
fundraising to minimize that expense
as much as possible.
If this sounds exciting, I’d love to
talk with you more about it. We are
limited to fifteen spots, and we al-
ready have a significant number of
those filled. So please contact me
ASAP if you’d like to hear
more. Your presence will have an
impact, and you will be impacted!
For more information on Common
Hope, our ministry partner, please
see their web site at HERE
Thanks,
John Bruellman 952-412-5704
LSS – Offering Counseling Services at Faith
On Mondays, beginning September 12th, Lutheran Social Service (LSS) will open a satellite office here at Faith. Services will be offered by Jolaina Falkenstein. Jolaina is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist providing individual, couple, family, and child therapy. Her areas of specialization are: couple’s therapy; Veterans and their family members; depression and anxiety; and healing from trauma and abuse. Jolaina has experience offering therapy for couples, families, and individuals. She is an OIF-OEF Veteran who also provides case management and therapy through the C.O.R.E. program, which services Veterans and military families. Jolaina is trained in Prepare/Enrich and can offer group workshops and couple’s sessions for pre-marital couples. She is also trained in TF-CBT (Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) which is an evidenced-based treatment for chil-dren and adolescents impacted by trauma and their parents or caregivers. “My passion and commitment is to help individuals and family systems work through difficult situations and empow-er them to become stronger and more resilient. I seek to provide a safe, compassionate, and an understanding place for people to talk about their struggles. I also believe in ensuring our military families receive the care, services, and sup-port they deserve and need.” Jolaina is looking forward to offering services for those who either a part of Faith or the Waconia community. To contact Jolaina or to schedule an appointment, please call: 612-879-5320.
It Takes a Whole Village Passing on FAITH for the next generation
S oon the halls of Faith Lutheran will be bustling with the sounds of the feet of our children on the way to their classes. They come not knowing what they will
find. Their parents send them in hopes that their faith will be engaged and grow. While here they meet AAA Adults (those who are authentic, available and affirming). Stores are shared - relationships are built - faith is engaged. “You are blessed to be a blessing.” These were God’s words to Abraham. That blessing has been passed from generation to generation until now. The AAA adults who share their time and energy with our children are blessed. The children, likewise are blessed to have been involved. Faith is caught more than it is taught. Adults pass on faith to our young people simply by building relationships with them. NOW is the time of year when all of those adults are being lined up. It matters not what age children you’d rather meet and greet. We have them all and they all need AAA Adults to say YES to the call. Men and women are needed. For SPARK, for BYG, for IGNITE, for Faith Apps. Is God calling YOU to ENGAGE FAITH this fall?
We invite all families to attend the special kick off
to fall programs on RALLY DAY—September
11th. Come to worship that day (8:30 or 10:00)
and enjoy the KCGO Big Band from Jazz Central
Studios in Minneapolis. They will surely make our
music swing on Rally Day.
The Carnival kicks off at 9:30 am and goes until
11:30 inside and outside the education wing.
There will be games galore and food to eat.
Children can come to see where their classes will
meet and play games while they are at it.
Volunteers are welcome (and indeed needed!) —
Planners, Game booth attendants, Cookie bakers,
Clowns, misc. help, etc. Sign up on the bulletin
board or contact Mary Toufar:
Registration is OPEN NOW
Check out the line-up of fall programming on the
previous page. Registration for all fall
programs is open now on the Faith Website:
www.waconiafaithlutheran.com
Graceland is for 9th - 12th Grade students to come together on Wednesday evenings from 730-830pm to learn about how to be for God and others through study, service, fellowship and fun. All are welcome to the kick-off bon-fire on Wednesday, September 14. Friends are always welcome!
Friday Night Fun Nights are open to all 5th-8th Grade students to come out to Faith and to have a fun time the first Friday of each month, from 6:30pm - 8:30pm beginning October 7.
Each month will offer a different theme and activity. From mov-ie nights and service events to Blender Wars and Mighty Mighty Scoop Noodle Challenge. Each night is led by Faith’s TIM Team, which is a Senior High student led ministry. All are welcome!
Donuts & Devos is a new offering for students from 7th - 12th Grade that will meet at 10am in the youth room on the third Sunday of each month. This is a time have a donut and coffee or juice, catch up, talk about current events and to see how God fits into this thing called life. All are welcome!
An Invitation to Parents
W e, as parents, know that our time with our children is
limited. There are times in our busy lives that we just
don’t take the time to be able to slow down and just
enjoy each other, whether it be our family, our friends and even
our God.
In my opinion, one of the most important things that we can
do for our children is to share our faith with them. I would
invite you to do that as well. To pass on your traditions to your
children and maybe learn or start some new ones. To share with
them your struggles and celebrations. To let them know that you
might be questioning who God is, that you might be angry or
frustrated with life or that you are celebrating the blessings and
joy that you have. Our children need to understand that life is
not going to be easy just because we believe in God. But, that
with grace, mercy and love, that we can get through it.
Bo Boshers is the author of a book called, “The Be With
Factor”. In it, he shares how we not called to judge and preach at
others, but we are called to be with them. This can be difficult as
a parent, at times. We want only the best for our kids. We don’t
want them to have to worry or suffer. We want them to succeed.
Through research, they have found that the best way to make an
impact is to simply be with them.
Now, I understand that with the school year upon us, and with
your children getting involved in more and more activities and
our busy daily lives, that it can be difficult. But, I would like to
encourage you. To let you know that you and your family have a
place here. A place of grace. A place to call home. A safe place.
A place to call your own. A place that you and your family are
always welcome at. A place to know that no matter what is going
on in life, that you are loved and accepted. A place where we can
grow and learn how to be for God and others together.
Lastly, I encourage you to take some time this year, even, just
once, to plug in. To plug in to one event at church with them. It
may be their Sunday School class, a Friday Night Fun Night,
Graceland Sr High Youth Group, Ignite Confirmation or
elsewhere. Come and be with them.
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 22ND
4TH Thursday Women’s Book Club
“A MAN CALLED OVE” by Fredrik
Backman is September’s book. In this
bestselling and delightfully quirky debut novel
from Sweden, a grumpy yet loveable man
finds his solitary world turned on its head
when a boisterous young family moves in next
door. Fredrik Backman’s novel about the
angry old man next door is a thoughtful and
charming exploration of the profound impact
one life has on countless others. (From the
publisher.) Join us in the Fireside Room at
Faith on Thursday, September 22nd, at 7 pm
to discuss this novel.
SAGES Progressive
Dinner on Sunday,
October 2. Join us for
Appetizers, Dinner,
and Dessert. The
event will begin late
afternoon with
appetizers in Steiner Hall followed by
dinner in host homes and back to Steiner Hall
for dessert. 8-10 hosts are needed to
provide an entree in their home. All
others will bring side dishes, appetizers or
dessert. Sign up at the SAGES Kiosk to
host in your home and also to attend this
event. In 2015, 58 people enjoyed getting
to know new people and enjoy old
friendships. Contact Sandy Gilbert at 952
-446-1424 with specifics or see the
SAGES Sign up.
FALL CLEAN-UP
SATURDAY OCTOBER 15TH
8:30AM-12NOON. We will be performing General Yard
Maintenance, such as raking, trimming
shrubs, cleaning roof gutters and
windows.We will meet in Stiener Hall
where we will form small groups for
various tasks. Items needed for Fall
clean-up are Volunteers, squeegees,
buckets, rakes and ladders. Volunteering at
Faith can be fun, fulfilling and productive,
Many Thanks to all the helpers with
Spring Clean-up we had a great time and
accomplished a lot.
Upcoming events
What better way to celebrate the arrival of fall
and get to know other Faith members and
families than to have a PARTY?!
All members are invited to our Fall Festival, Saturday, October 1st from 5-8 pm to
experience an evening of great fun, music, food, games, and of course conversation! The main event will include a yummy beef brisket
meal complete with delicious side dishes, S’mores around the bonfire, games for young
and old alike, and much, much more! Stay tuned for more details...
Tickets will go on sale starting Sunday,
September 4th after the service and after all remaining services (Sunday and Wednesday) leading up to the BIG event or you can get
your tickets at the church office during business hours.
You are invited to join Pastor Christine on Wednesday nights
following Prime Time worship (during B.Y.G. and IGNITE) from
7:00-8:00pm for “Sticky Faith!” - an excellent 5-session DVD
study for parents hoping to have their kids emerge from
adolescence and college with their faith intact. Through
real-world experiences of research and sharing, the Sticky Faith
Curriculum presents powerful strategies and practical ideas for
imparting a deep and lasting faith in your children.
Join us for Prime Time worship at 6:07 with this excellent
discussion to follow!
When: 7:00-8:00pm weekly Wednesday nights for
5 weeks starting September 14th
Where: Steiner Hall
Prep?: None! Books will be available for purchase for
$10.00.
Childcare? Yes. Only $5/family with pre-registration.
Schedule:
September 14th Sticky Faith Essentials
September 21st Sticky Faith – A Sticky Identity
September 28th Sticky Faith – Family Conversations
October 5th Sticky Faith – Your Sticky Faith Team
October 12th Sticky Faith – The Ups and Downs
Register for "Sticky Faith" on our website.
Parents – Come connect with other parents and learn how YOU can help pass faith on to the next generation!
Kay and Kevin Young & family at the death of Kay’s mother Renae Jensen.
Christine and Greg Ruth & family at the
death of Christine’s grandmother Viola Pedersen.
Don Check at the death of his sister Luella.
Diane Spagenske at the death of her brother Elmer Schmidt.
Chuck and Kari Stevenson & family at the death of Chuck’s mother Janet Stevenson.
Sarah and Dale Peterson & family at the
death of Sarah’s mother Barbara Wright.
Welcome to the Family of Faith
through baptism:
Brie Kay Battaglia, daughter of
Kaitlin & Steve Battaglia who was
baptized August 28. Her sponsors are
Ryan & Whitney Rudesill.
Riley James Klein, son of Jeff &
Kari Klein who was baptized August
28. His sponsors are Allison Klein,
Lucas Zimmer.
With Sincere Sympathy to:
Deb Frederickson and family at the
death of her father John Roth.
About the people of Faith
September Mission Offering: Ministry Partner: Youth Trips This offering goes toward building
grant monies for Faith’s summer
youth trips. We want every child
who would like to participate to be
able to do so. Please consider
supporting our youth and working
to ensure that everyone can
experience these life-changing trips.
For more information, contact
Mary Toufar or Myron Crawford.
Thank You for Supporting Faith’s
Missions: $415.00 was received for
July Partner in Ministry: Lutheran
World Relief.
Faith in Action is published on the first of each
month for the people of Faith Evangelical Lutheran
Church. The fifteenth of each month is the copy dead-
line for the following month’s issue.
Submissions may be emailed to
OFFICE HOURS 8:00 am - 5:00 pm, Mon. - Friday
Most Wednesdays 8:00 am - 7:00 pm
PHONE: (952) 442-2101
www.waconiafaithlutheran.com
Custodian………………………….Carl Bredberg
Kids Club Choir Director………….Lea Ann Burau
Church Admin/Financial Coord....Mike Christopherson
Youth & Family Minister………….Myron Crawford
Sunday Custodian………………..Dean Culver
Worship Pianist.…………………..Shelly Hilgers
Church Admin./Communications..Jean Krukowski
Prime Time Band Director……….Jeanine Kruschke
Faith Choir Director……………….Aaron Olson
Senior Pastor……………………...Rev. Dale Peterson
Faithful Ringers Director…………Lisa Roddy
Associate Pastor………………….Rev.Christine Ruth
Youth & Family Minister …………Mary Toufar
Volunteer Coordinator……………Susie Watts
Joyful Noise Singers Director……Kay Young
Powered by Faith Why give money to Faith Lutheran? One reason is so that as a church we can be a witness to the world of the life giving power of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. In the book of Hebrews we are encouraged to find inspiration from the great witnesses that have lived before us. At Faith, these witnesses, are all those original members and early members that gave of their money, time and gifts to help shape Faith Lutheran into what it is today. Faith started with four couples in the late nineteen sixties and now involves over six hundred families. What a witness! It’s our pleasure and opportunity to continue this great witness for Christ’s sake and the sake of our world.
Recycled Card Making
We will be making Recycled Cards every second Monday of each month. The first card making day will be September 12 at 10:00 AM in the Fireside Room On the first day, we will get to know each other and discuss logistics of the group-how, why, what. If you are interested in making recycled cards, please join us. For every meeting bring your favorite scissors and adhesive. Hope to see you there!
Knit and Natter
THE KNITTING GROUP IS BACK!
Come and bring your own crocheting and knitting projects or learn to knit a prayer shawl for a person who needs a little more comfort. This is a time to socialize with friends and relax while crocheting or knitting. If you do not know how to crochet or knit bring along another project you are working on. We will be meeting every third Thursday of each month September to May at 10:00 AM in the Sonshine Room in the education wing
Our first gathering will be on September 15th in the Fireside Room. Contact Susie Watts if you have any questions (952)442-2101.
Would you like to help us make Sunday mornings a “WOW!” experience for newcomers to Faith?
Do you like baking or the smell of FRESH caramel rolls? If so, we are seeking team
members who would make themselves available once/month to help organize “Special Treat Sundays” here at Faith Lutheran. This team would be prepare a treat of their choice on either the 2nd or 4th Sunday of each month. There are funds available for covering costs, and ideally, treats would be baked FRESH Sunday mornings! (ie.) cinnamon or caramel rolls. If you have a gift for hospitality or baking, we’d LOVE your help in building relationships here at Faith by serving on our new “Sunday Treat Team.” Please contact Susie Watts at [email protected] or any member of the Life, Growth and Mission Team.
You are Invited To a New Member
Mentor Get Together
Please join us on September
15, 2016 at 6:30 PM in Steiner
Hall. We will have an hour
long get together to learn what
a New Member mentor is and
how you can help our New
Members get connected at
Faith Lutheran.
Please RSVP to: Susie Watts,
Or (952)442-2101
Childcare available upon request.
New Member Informational Gatherings September 11, 18, or 25 at 9:30 AM.
In the Fireside Room or September 14, 21 or 28 after the
Wednesday Prime Time Service in Steiner Hall
The information days are to answer any questions you may have and fill out some paperwork prior to the New Member Class. You will only need
to attend one informational gathering. Attendance at the informational meeting
will be your RSVP to the new member series.
Three Part New Member Series October 2, 9 & 16 at 11:00-12:30 PM
In Steiner Hall. We encourage all who wish to be members attend all three dates. We will discuss our
mission which is, To Learn, Serve and Share the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Please RSVP by calling the office if you will be attending class.
Childcare provided upon request.
Small Group Facilitators Training
Sunday September 11
10:15-11:30am
in the Fireside Room with Pastor Christine
Have you read a book you might be
interested in reading with others?
Have you wanted to improve your skills at
launching a group or facilitating small
group conversation?
Would you like to grow as a leader?
If so, you are invited to attend one of our Small Group Facilitator’s Trainings here at Faith Lutheran with
Pastor Christine. We are currently seeking facilitators for our All-Congregational DVD series in October,
Griefshare, and DivorceCare, or you can come up with your own! You will learn how to launch and recruit group members here at Faith, how to effective group curriculum and discussion questions, and how to facilitate authentic
and meaningful group conversation. Register on-line under Small Groups or contact
Pastor Christine for more information at [email protected].
any people will tell you that separation and
divorce are the most painful and stressful
experiences they’ve ever faced. It can be a
confusing time when you feel isolated and
have lots of questions about issues you’ve never faced be-
fore. It can be so freeing to discover that there are others
who have the same kind of feelings you do—and who
understand the hurt and pain you are going through.
DivorceCare is a 13-week small group experience we are
planning to launch this year at Faith Lutheran. Right now,
we are forming a “Launch Team” willing to be trained to
facilitate this excellent curriculum, designed to help Faith
Lutheran Church and community members face the chal-
lenge of divorce and move toward rebuilding their lives.
Each session includes a video seminar featuring top ex-
perts on divorce and recovery subjects, combined with a
safe non-judgmental discussion to gain support. If you
might consider being a part of our launch team, please
contact Pastor Christine at
For More Information: Check out
http://www.divorcecare.org/ or register your interest in
participating at www.waconiafaithlutheran.com under
“Small groups/Support.”
ave you suffered the loss of a partner, parent,
child, or friend? GriefShare is a 13-week small
group series for those who are grieving the
loss of someone you loved. Grief can feel
lonely and isolating- especially in a culture that pressures
you to “move on.” Many people feel disoriented and have
questions about things they’ve never faced before.
GriefShare is a 13-week DVD series that we are planning
on launching here at Faith Lutheran, focused on helping
those of us who have faced a loss, so we can that challeng-
es and move toward rebuilding our lives. Each week,
Griefshare participants watch a DVD seminar featuring
top experts on grief and recovery subjects. If you might
consider being a part of our launch team, please contact
Pastor Christine at [email protected].
For More Information: Check out
http://www.griefshare.org/ or register your interest in
participating at www.waconiafaithlutheran.com under
“Small groups/Support.”
SNOW PLOWING and SALT/SANDING BIDS;
Are being ACCEPTED UNTIL October 28th @
4:00p.m.Please submit proposals in duplicate
form no later than 4:00p.m. October 28th, to
the Church Office Addressed to Building and
Maintenance Ministries.
2017 Summer Service Opportunities
Summer Stretch - June 26-30 Summer Stretch is a program for students who have completed 5th-8th Grade. Each day students get to experience service, recreation, Bible study and worship. The cost is only $150 for the week.
Middle School Mission Trip -
July 9 - July 14 - Duluth, MN Duluth has been consistently recognized as a great place to live, but this is not the case for all residents. Poverty and economic hardship are a reality, especially for youth. Students who have completed 6th-8th Grades are encouraged to be a part of this amazing experience. The cost is only $350/student. There will be an info meeting on Wednesday, September 25 @ 730pm in the Community Room.
Senior High Mission Trip - July 23 - 28 - Cheyenne Rover, SD The Cheyenne River Reservation is the area that Crazy Horse once called home. Situated on nearly three million acres of land in north central South Dakota, this reservation is home to four bands of the Lakota Nation. The region is rich with the tragic history of the hardships the Lakota Nation endured. However, the Lakota have kept their history and culture alive through their gifts of storytelling and their commitment to their culture. Eagle Butte is a fascinating reservation town with people and organizations who are actively trying to improve the lives of people within their community. This awesome opportunity is open to students who have completed 9th-12th Grades. The cost is only $350/student. There will be an info meeting on Wednesday, September 25 @ 730pm in the Community Room.
Faith Lutheran Church’s
2016 FALL Women’s Retreat Getaway
“God, Girlfriends, and
Chocolate” facilitated by Retreat Speaker and
Author, Gaye Lindfors
Friday-Saturday, November 11th-12th
from 5:00pm to 5:00pm Oak Ridge Retreat Center in Chaska
Register on-line or call Pastor Christine.
$210 for Single Rooms; $165 for Doubles; or $130 (Quads); Scholarships available
(Includes luxury accommodations,
speaker, 3 meals and snacks)
More Serve Opportunities...
SAGES Christmas Project for Deployed Military Personnel SAGES 55+ is joining a community project to deliver Christmas Packages to deployed military personnel for Christmas 2016. Our goal is to pack up to 50 boxes as part of the Waconia community goal of 200 boxes. If Faith members have a loved one deployed overseas we can mail to their APO/FPO address. Provide this information to Chuck Schmidt or at the SAGES kiosk. Most boxes are distributed by chaplains to overseas personnel. Last year our packages went to Afghanistan. Donations will be accepted until the end of October. SAGES will purchase items to fill boxes and then plan a packing day in early November. Estimated cost to fill a large sized postal box is $50. Donations can be made by check to Faith Lutheran with Military Project in the memo line.
The Waconia Lions Club will pay to ship packages to APO/FPO addresses on Nov 19 and Dec 3. If you have any questions, please con-tact Chuck Schmidt at 612-730-9320.
See the SAGES kiosk for more
information on types of things we
might pack and sign up to supply
specific items.
Faith’s Visitation Team
If you would like to be part of Faith’s Visitation Team you are invited to our next
meeting. We will meet at 5:00 on Tuesday August 30th in the Fireside Room. All are
welcome. The Visitation Team is made up of Faith members that either go in pairs or
individually to visit people are homebound, living in a care facility or just could benefit
from a caring person checking in with them on a regular basis. Training is available, but
usually unnecessary. We do our best to make good matches so that the visits are fun
and easy. If you have questions please contact Pastor Dale or Carolyn Bjelland. If you
know someone that would benefit from a Visitor please let Pastor Dale know.
