EAR Peace Friends, As this is my last “letter” to you, permit

me to quote a phrase from both letters of Peter to his Christian friends: “May grace and peace be yours in abundance.” (I Peter 1:2; II Peter 1:2)

It has been a great joy to be part of this congregation since 2004. I will always remember meeting around a conference table with the call committee at Callaway’s in the fall of 2003. Several hours earlier I had a wonderful visit with Pastor Paul and Pastor Rolf at Peace. It might have been Lon Stroshein or Chuck Claussen who asked me during the interview how long I would be willing to serve if called. Since it was no longer acceptable to ask a candidate their age, I smiled and responded that I would commit to “give you five good years.” Well, how time flies when you’re having fun! It is hard to believe that eleven and a half years have sped by.

Since I am nearing the age of 73, I have decided it is time to give my full attention to my bride of nearly 49 years, as well as to our children and grandchildren with whom we have been gifted.

Susanne and I have enjoyed being a part of this welcoming and dynamic congregation. It is a congregation where “we have always done it this way” is a foreign language. I have appreciated working with my colleagues and others on our ministry team. It was fun to bring some new ideas to Peace from our congregation in Anchorage, among which were using Holden Evening Prayer for worship and sewing quilts for graduating high school seniors.

It was exciting upon my arrival to work with the newly formed Faith and Family Ministry Team. From this group of visionary moms came lots of wonderful ideas, including the Giving Jar; which provides so much joy not only to our

children but also to the entire congregation besides supporting children beyond our church family. The team initiated the Elizabeth Ministry to support young women and new moms. The team also introduced concepts of developing milestones in the faith development of children and young people including senior quilts. When we added Pat Eidsness to our leadership team, she took over being a liaison with this group.

It has been a blessing to share so many of life’s sacred moments with Peace’s members and families. Continued on page 4

D

PEACETALK Volume 25 - Number 5 – May 2015 5509 W. 41st St. - Sioux Falls, SD 57106 (605) 361-3683

Saved by God’s grace, we are called to be instruments of God’s peace. peacelutheran.com facebook.com/PeaceLutheran twitter.com/PeaceLutheranSF

From the Pastor…

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PEACE STAFF: Pastors: Paul Stjernholm Rolf Svanoe Obed Nelson Betsy Hoium Staff: Lynn Bethke – Receptionist Jackie Hensley – Receptionist Mary Lunde – Receptionist Anita Solberg – Financial Secretary Dean Ebbinga – Facilities Manager Joe Sheaffer – Custodian Mike Johnson – Custodian Carl Meyerhoff – Custodian Fern Swearingen – Librarian Jackie Hensley – Worship Volunteers Pam Tetzlaff – Food Ministry

Directors: Renae Boehmer – Children’s Ministry Pam Tetzlaff – Assistant Children’s Ministry Holly Marty – Confirmation/Adult Ministries Kelsey Lyndoe – Youth Ministries Jackie Bailey – Worship and Music Bob Levesque – Asst. Worship/Music/Comm. Colt Foutz – Communications Cara Hetland – Communications Jim Ahrendt – Seniors Ministry Sue Olsen – Preschool Tara Foley – Peace Care and Kids World Maurine Pederson – Office Manager Jay Heintz – Finance Manager Sarah and Jason Andera – Heartland Ephphatha

Music Groups: Darya Levesque – Children’s Music Tammy Beintema – Youth Bells/Chimes Nancy Lenander – Adult Choir Kyle Quanbeck – Organist Maurine Pederson – Adult Bell Choir Rolf Svanoe – Peace Brass Ann Okins – Saturday Service Pianist Wedding Coordinators: Vickie Appino Erin Wescott Crystal Ehresmann

From Back to Front (& Back Again)…

Calendar – 18

Only Technology Has Changed – tribute to Maurine Pederson– 17

Goodbye, Mrs. Sue – 16 Welcome, Dean! – 15

Graduating High School Seniors – 11 Faith and Families – 8

What’s Happening at Peace – 7 God’s Work Our Hands – 6

Worship Highlights – 5 Continued From the Pastor – 4

Fifty Years Creating Peace: 2000s – 3

Saying Hello and Goodbye…

Throughout this month’s newsletter we will meet new staff and say goodbye to Pastor Obed, Maurine Pederson and Sue Olsen. We also pay tribute to our graduating high school seniors.

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Part Five: Peace in this Century

Pastor Rolf Svanoe was called and installed in August of 2000. His love for creative worship brought polka and jazz services and the brass choir and peace band.

In 2003, another construction and remodeling project began for new office space and Sunday school space. A new choir room, library and space for day care were also constructed. The Faith and Family Ministry Team was organized in 2003 with goals to strengthen the bond between home and church, provide families with resources to nurture their faith, build a cross-generational faith community, and form a Milestone Ministry program. We see their work in Lenten devotion kits, presenting baptized members with faith chests and wrapping graduating seniors in homemade quilts. Pastor Ann Schlossnagle left to answer a call to western South Dakota. Jason and Sarah Andera were hired in 2004 as Heartland Ephphatha directors. Pastor Obed Nelson was called as Pastor of Caring Ministries.

By the end of 2004 there were 3,200 baptized members. With the expansion of the building came the expansion of ministries and staff. A new digital Organ was installed in 2005 and also a projector system. Peace also joined with Holy Cross Lutheran Church to help start a mission church. Pastor Tim Robertson joined the staff in May of 2006 as a mission developer with Rejoice! Lutheran. The new congregation started worshiping in September at the Family Wellness Center. By 2007, Peace is one of only 40 ELCA congregations counting 1,000 people at worship each weekend. In November, Peace called Pat Eidsness as an Associate in Ministry (AIM) to the pastoral staff. As Peace continued to grow so does its compassion and caring for neighbors with the launch in 2009 of the Sioux Falls Lutheran churches Food to You Mobile Food Pantry and Peace’s Necessities for Neighbors. Peace also purchased four properties west of the church to expand the parking lot. Baptized membership of the congregation surpassed 4,000 by the year 2010. Pat Eidsness left to become a mission developer and the congregation called Pastor Ann Rosendale. 2011 saw the parking lot expanded, fellowship hall remodeled and hallways tiled. Global Mission began sponsoring the village of Jamel, Haiti. In 2012, Pastor Ann accepted a call as a campus minister at Augustana College and Pastor Betsy Hoium joined the staff. The Church Council began examining how the church operates and recommended reducing the size of the council and refocusing efforts on strategic vision. The congregation supported the change and authorized hiring an administrator, allowing pastors to focus on spiritual growth. As Peace enters it’s 50th year, it continues to grow and change as we say goodbye to several staff members.

Next month: Come back for a preview of the next 50 years

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FROM THE PASTOR (CONTINUED FROM 1)… Much of my ministry has been with people who are experiencing grief, from divorce to illness and death. I took a look at my funeral sermon file and discovered that I have had 100 funerals or memorial services since coming to Peace. Sharing those intimate experiences has created bonds of trust that have been very precious. It has been wonderful facilitating a number of grief groups. And the work of the Prayer Shawl Ministry team has added an important tool in the support of people experiencing loss and grief. Last December we had our 11th annual Blue Christmas Service. And I look forward to commissioning a group of members on May 17th who will start a Home Communion Ministry. It has been an honor to stand with you folks at Peace through both sorrow and joy. Another blessing that fell in my lap was to work with new members. I have been amazed by the gifts brought to us from a rich diversity of faith expressions. These new members have been largely attracted by the positive experience of grace-filled worship and the welcome they have felt.

The call to serve as a pastor of a congregation does not include a spouse. But it did not take long for Susanne to become a part of Peace by singing in the choir, playing trumpet with the brass ensemble, going on global mission trips to Cameroun and Haiti, doing pre-marriage counseling and sharing her love of poetry. Largely through the support of individuals at Peace, she was able to volunteer with the World Council of Churches as an observer living among Palestinian people in Israel’s West Bank for three months in 2010. I joined her on another trip in 2013. I have been the grateful beneficiary of the friendships developed and insights gained. We

continue to have an intense interest in helping people see beyond the limitations imposed by our media. From the bottom of my heart I thank you for the opportunity to serve as a partner in this ministry. Our future plans are still in the process of being formed. We know that a significant part of our time and energy will be concentrated on family. Pastoral guidelines and common sense means that when pastoral ministry ends with a congregation so does worship and involvement. So after July 1st you will see us around Sioux Falls but not at Peace. But know that the family of Peace will always be in our thoughts and prayers. The friendships we have established will continue but in a much different context. May God’s Spirit continue to bless and guide you on your journey of faith, love and service.

Pastor Obed

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WORSHIP HIGHLIGHTS Cracking Open the Faith: A Brief Trip Through Romans

The Apostle Paul wrote a letter to the church in Rome to explain his views of the Gospel. Martin Luther said of Romans, “This epistle is really the chief part of the New Testament, and is truly the purest gospel…. It is a bright light, almost sufficient to illuminate the entire Holy Scriptures.” In May we want that light to shine brightly in our worship. May 2/3/6 – It’s All About Faith – Romans 1:1-17 The theme of Romans comes in our reading today, Romans 1:16-17; the Good News is God’s power for salvation for all who believe. Preacher - Pastor Betsy May 9/10/13 – From Enemies to Friends – Romans 5:1-11 God shows great grace and love in coming to us first in Jesus, even when we were still enemies, and pouring love into our hearts. Preacher – Pastor Rolf May 16/17/20 – Joined to Christ – Romans 6:1-14 In baptism God joins us to Christ’s death and resurrection. That makes all the difference in how we live our daily lives. Preacher – Pastor Obed May 23/24 – All Things Work Together for Good – Romans 8:18-29; Acts 2:1-4 On this festival of Pentecost you are invited to wear something red to worship. We are reminded of the Holy Spirit’s work in our lives, helping us to witness to God’s love in Christ. Preacher – Pastor Paul May 30/31 – Nothing Can Separate Us From God’s Love – Romans 8:31-38 God’s love sustains throughout all of life, and especially when things are difficult. Even the worst experiences in life cannot remove us from God’s love. Preacher – Rev. Dave Johnson, former Senior Pastor at Peace from 1989-1999. June 7 – 50th Anniversary Celebration 10:30 at O’Gorman High School Auditorium COMING IN JUNE – GLAD YOU ASKED

Is there a question you’ve always wondered about and would love to hear a sermon on? We are taking questions from the congregation, which will be used for a series during June and part of July, called Glad You Asked. If you have a question you can write it down and drop it off at the Welcome Center or email your question to Pastor Rolf – pastorrolf@peacelutheran.com 50 YEARS CREATING PEACE – ANNIVERSARY WORSHIP: JUNE 7, 2015

On Sunday, June 7, Peace will celebrate 50 years of ministry sharing God’s love in Sioux Falls. We invite you to join the festive celebration. In order to accommodate everyone at a single service our worship will be held in the new auditorium at O’Gorman High School, which seats 1,000 people. Join the choirs, brass, bells and organ for the festive worship. A special arrangement by Jeremy Hegg of the hymn Lift High The Cross has been commissioned. Many former pastors will be in attendance. This is an historic service that you won’t want to miss.

A brunch will be served before and after the worship service in the O’Gorman Rec Center, catered by Tony’s Catering. Tickets are on sale during May- $10 for adults and $5 for children 12 and under. Volunteers are needed to help with set up on Saturday afternoon and also some clean up Sunday after worship. Sign up to help at the Welcome Center. We will also offer a worship service at 8:30 at Peace for those who cannot attend the celebration SUMMER WORSHIP SCHEDULE Starting Memorial weekend, Sunday May 24, we will change to our summer worship schedule Saturday – 5:30 Sunday – 8:30 / 9:45 / 11:00

No Wednesday worship service this summer until Sept 2.

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GOD’S WORK, OUR HANDS

Necessities for Neighbors Set Up – Saturday, May 2 at 9 a.m. It takes many hands to get ready for our guests. Email Jackie@peacelutheran.com or sign up at the Welcome Center to volunteer. Necessities for Neighbors Distribution – Sunday, May 3 - 2:30-5 p.m. Help us welcome 250-300 guests from countries as diverse as Nepal, Somalia, Iraq, Russia, Tanzania and many other parts of the world. All ages are welcome. Children and middle school youth should come with a parent or other adult. Sign up at the Welcome Center or Email Jackie@peacelutheran.com

Global Mission Sponsors Cinnamon Rolls – Sunday, May 17! We had such a great response we are doing it again! Join us in the Fellowship Hall from 8:30-11:30 a.m. for some yummy food! Freewill donations support our partner congregations in Jumelle, Haiti. Want to help? Contact Dan at desodak@gmail.com.

Home Communion Ministry Before Christmas we had several training sessions for people interesting in becoming part of a new ministry of Home Communion. A number of members volunteered. We are now getting close to initiating this outreach ministry.

Volunteers are being asked to attend another training in May and we will “commission” our ministry team during worship services the third Sunday in May.

Training: 7-8:30 p.m. Monday, May 4 and 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Saturday, May 9 in the Shalom Room.

Commission: Worship Services May 16, 17 Please contact pastorobed@peacelutheran.com for more information or questions, including members

who would like to receive home communion once a month on an ongoing basis. Looking Ahead: Start Your Summer Off with Serving Celebrate our 50th Anniversary by Serving! Our next Necessities for Neighbors distribution is on the afternoon of Sunday, June 7, the day we celebrate Peace's 50th Anniversary. What better way to celebrate than by giving back to the community? Food to You – Thursday, June 4. This year Peace will serve at Food to You five times and the next opportunity is early June. We serve at East Side Lutheran at 10th and Cliff. Shifts are 4:15-8 and 5:15-8 p.m. We are collecting tuna and tuna helper. Sign up at the Welcome Center or email pastorbetsy@peacelutheran.com. "El Camino de Jesus" (Journey with Jesus) Bilingual Vacation Bible School June 23-26– We are partnering with Pueblo de Dios, First Lutheran and First Congregational Churches to sponsor a Spanish-English VBS, June 23-26 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at First Lutheran. Children ages 3 to 5th grade are invited to participate & the cost is $45, which includes lunch and snacks. No cost for volunteers 6th grade through adult. Contact pastorbetsy@peacelutheran.com.

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WHAT’S HAPPENING AT PEACE WITH THANKS: May 3: Recognition of Maurine Pederson’s 30 years of service as Peace Office Manager. May 10: Recognition of Sue Olsen’s 30 years of service in the Peace Preschool. ADULT BIBLE STUDY: We will begin a study on the Twelve Disciples on Sunday, April 26th. This will begin with the lesser known disciples and culminate with a study on Simon Peter. It will seek to answer these questions: Who were these men? Why did Jesus choose them? What type of men were they? How did they contribute to Jesus' ministry? What happened to them after Jesus resurrection? The study will go through May 17th. We will not meet on the Sunday of Memorial Day weekend.

MUSIC CAMP – MAY 31- JUNE 4 Last chance to register for a spot in our Music Camp where we will be

learning and performing the musical “Jailhouse Rock”! Great dialogue, singing, choreography, devotions, games and crafts will keep you busy this week! Registration deadline is May 17th but you will need to register early if you are interested in trying out for a solo or speaking part. These will be held on May 6th and May 10th. A suggested $10 fee will cover a CD, craft supplies and Thursday lunch. MUSIC DEPARTMENT DIRECTOR POSITION OPEN

Tammy Beintema has directed our Youth Bells and our Handchime choir for the past 5 years and done a fantastic job of building up this program. She will be stepping down at the end of April and we are looking for someone

with bell experience to take over this Fall. This is a paid position that lasts from September through April. Please contact jackie@peacelutheran.com for more details. ATTENTION ADULT CHOIR AND ALUMNI

To help celebrate our 50th Anniversary we are asking past choir members to consider joining the Peace Adult Choir in singing a special piece at the June 7th 10:30 service at O’Gorman. There will be rehearsals on Wednesday, May 27th and June 3rd at 7:00 in the Music Room. Please contact Nancy Lenander at nc.lenander@gmail.com for more details. 50th Anniversary Sanctuary Improvements

Our beautiful sanctuary is now sixteen years old and in need of improvements. When it was built there were shortcuts made for cost reasons. Worship styles and technology demands have changed. It is time to remodel and upgrade. Check our progress on the display in the Gathering Area. LAST CALL FOR GREECE IN OCTOBER

Join a group from Peace traveling to Greece and the Greek Isles in October. We’ll explore the footsteps of the Apostle Paul, visit many significant historical sites of the Greek and Roman empires, and enjoy the beauty of the Greek Isles on a three day cruise. Brochures are available at the Welcome Center.

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FAMILIES & FAITH Children’s Ministries Paul Last month we talked about the Great Commission and how Jesus sent his disciples out into the world with both the command to tell the entire world about him and his love and to baptize and teach AND the promise that he would be with them always.

This month we will see Paul, an apostle who embodied this command and went all over the Roman Empire to do exactly what Jesus asked. We will hear stories about Saul’s big conversion (and how God changes our lives, too!) as well as Ananias’ fear (and how Jesus is with us when we are afraid).

Here are a few ways you can talk about Paul at home: • Turn to the back of a Bible to find a map of Paul’s journeys. Pick out a name of a city you have never

heard of and try to pronounce it. Include the people that live in that city in your family’s prayers this week.

• When Paul travelled, he had wonderful times when people were excited to hear about Jesus’ love. He also had bad times when people were cruel to him. Share your own highs and lows as a family every night at dinner for a week.

• Paul was forever changed when a bright light shown on his path and Jesus transformed him. Get out a flashlight and sit in a dark room together. Pass around the flashlight as people tell of their favorite story from the Bible.

Everest Vacation Bible School -- June 15-18, 2015 at Peace Lutheran. As in past years, classes are available in the morning (starting at 9:00 am) and in the evening (starting at 6:00 pm) for all age groups. Please note: The morning session is full for elementary age children. Suggested donation is $15 per child or $35 for three or more kids. T-shirt is included in the cost! Registration closes on May 24 in order to provide time for groups to be created and volunteers to be trained. Walk-ins will be accepted for the EVENING session on the first night of VBS.    VOLUNTEER TRAINING is scheduled as follows: Preschool volunteers: Sunday, May 31 from 3:00 – 4:00 pm, OR Tuesday, June 9 from 6:00 – 7:00 pm Elementary volunteers: Sunday, May 31 from 4:30 – 5:30 pm, OR Tuesday, June 9 from 7:30 – 8:30 pm **Training is mandatory for all volunteers so we can hit the ground running on the first day. For questions or to find out more about volunteer opportunities, contact Pam: pam@peacelutheran.com.  

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Summer Fun For ALL!

Beginning on April 26, pick up YOUR Flat Jesus in the Gathering Place. Flat Jesus is a piece of cardstock with a drawing of Jesus (Thanks to Kaylor Ragels for drawing Jesus for us!). Here’s what to do:

1. Decorate your Flat Jesus as creatively or

simply as you would like. Use crayons, markers, fabric, glue, buttons, burlap, or whatever else your heart desires.

2. Take Jesus with you on all your summer adventures! (As we know, Jesus has promised to go with us wherever we go anyway!) He definitely wants to go on your vacations and trips – but would also like to join you around town.

3. Take pictures of Jesus with you wherever you are. 4. Send the pictures to us so we can be part of your adventure. Either:

a. Like us on Facebook. Go to Peace Lutheran – Sioux Falls, SD on Facebook. Scroll down to “write post” and attach your photo.

b. Email your pictures to pastorbetsy@peacelutheran.com and we will make sure they get posted.

5. Enjoy your summer – and remember to thank God for his most incredible promise to be with you always. Share your adventures with your family and friends, too!

Sunday, May 10th – Registration opens for fall Sunday/Wednesday School Sunday, May 10th – Last day of Sunday School Wed., May 13th – Last day of Wednesday School Sunday, May 31 – Thurs. June 4th – “Jailhouse Rock” music camp at Peace June 15-18 – Everest VBS at Peace Lutheran Mon, July 6 – Thur, July 9 – NeSoDak Daycamp at Peace Lutheran

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Middle School Youth Text plms to 59769

We’re excited about something new we’re going to try this summer with our current 6th & 7th graders. For six different Tuesday’s this summer we’re organizing a day of service and fun. We’ll spend part of the day volunteering with a local organization and the other part of the day doing something fun around town. We’ll be able to take up to 13 students each week. The day will be from 8 am – 5pm and for most day’s we’ll have kids pack a lunch to bring along. We’re finalizing our schedule of places and activities so stay tuned! High School Youth Text plsh to 59769 May 3rd – No HS Youth May 10th – 5pm Movie & Pizza Night in the Youth Room. Relax for an evening before your last week of school! Summer HS Schedule will be mailed out to High School Families. Summer Camp!

We want you to join us for camp this summer!! Peace is adding a second week that we’ll be organizing transportation and sending a staff person along for the ride.

EXPLORERS (4th- 6th) July 26-29 @ Joy Ranch EXPLORERS (1st – 3rd) July 29-31 @ Joy Ranch MIDDLE SCHOOL MANIA (6th -8th) July 5th- 10th @ Joy Ranch HORSES WITH A HEART (9th-12th) July 5th -10th @ Joy Ranch Contact kelsey@peacelutheran.com for more information Seniors Ministries: Contact Jim Ahrendt, Director, at 361-8637 or jim@peacelutheran.com XYZ Potluck & Program: NO XYZ in May due to holiday, graduations, etc. Transportation: Call the Peace receptionist at 361-3683 by Thursday noon if you need a ride to the Sunday 10:10 traditional service. Check the church bulletin for the Holy Week shuttle bus schedule. Call the church office at least 10 days in advance if you need a ride to your first medical appointment by Project CAR. You will contact Project Car directly afterwards. Game Day: The 1st and 3rd Thursday each month in room CE. Future Events: XYZ Potluck & Program: June - picnic at Sertoma Park. The Laura Ingalls Wilder Pageant - Saturday, July 11. Day trips to local and area churches, museums, and other points of interests. XYZ Potluck & Program: July - Human Trafficking Education & Awareness Joy Ranch retreat September 3-4. Outlaw Ranch retreat and buffalo round-up on September 21-26. Brochure on the XYZ board.

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Congratulations to our 2015 graduating high school seniors! Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope. We asked these 20 seniors about their future plans, their favorite memories and any message to the congregation. We share some of their answers here.

Jonathan Clark Roosevelt High School Attending Midland University in Fremont, NE    He is playing soccer for them.

Rebecca Hupke Roosevelt High School Attending USD and majoring in Accounting Rebecca’s favorite memory is the 8th grade retreat at Inspiration Hills and her favorite tradition is helping with Vacation Bible School and decorating.

Phillip Eugene Jonselins Tri-Valley High School Plans to work after graduation at HyVee Favorite Tradition at Peace is All Saints Day and his favorite Bible story is the creation story because without it we wouldn’t be here.

Kendall Glissendorf Roosevelt High School Attending Northern State University majoring in Psychology Favorite Memory: ELCA Youth Gathering Favorite Tradition: Candle lighting at the Christmas Eve Service

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Jordan Mogck Roosevelt High School Transition Program Favorite Memory is being an Angel in the Nativity for the Christmas program – two times! Christmas Eve Service is favorite tradition and Lighting the candles and singing Silent Night “I like Super Heroes – including our Pastors!”

Ashley Zimmer Roosevelt High School Attending USD – double major in art and psychology to pursue a career in art therapy.

“My trip to New Orleans was an amazing experience and is definitely my favorite memory. I thoroughly enjoyed seeing God's work shine through the people, the music, and the overall culture in the city.”

Abbey Houchin Sioux Falls Christian High School Attending Augustana College “My Favorite Tradition at Peace is the lighting of the candles at Christmas because the Christmas Story is my favorite story in the Bible. It’s also my favorite religious holiday.” “Thanks for supporting youth!”

Noah Temple Roosevelt High School Vocal Performance Major at USD New Orleans trip is his favorite memory and the Christmas service is his favorite tradition

Matt Laughery John Marshall High School (Rochester Minnesota) Possibly electrician Matt's favorite memory at Peace is making applesauce at Peace Pre-School

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Lukas Nelson Roosevelt High School Attending college Favorite Memory is the Confirmation camaraderie and his favorite tradition at Peace is singing Silent Night to the light of candles at Christmas. Favorite Bible Story: “The feeding of the 5000 because Jesus didn’t turn away the people who were hungry but instead preformed a miracle and fed them all.”

Hannah May Gunderson Lincoln High School Attending Concordia College in Moorhead, MN majoring in Chemistry/Spanish Favorite Memory: The dessert breadsticks from Valentino’s at various church meetings! Favorite Tradition: “I love attending the Maundy Thursday service every year. The foot washing is a reminder for me to go out in the world and do as Jesus would do.”

Dan Larson Attending Dakota Sate University in Madison Favorite Memory at Peace: Confirmation small group Favorite Bible story: Daniel and the lions den because he overcame a big obstacle

Hailee Domagalski Roosevelt High School Attending Creighton University for Theatre Performance. “One of my favorite memories is getting my Bible in second grade, my great grandma came along to the training and she kind of stole the show with her knowledge of every question Cindy asked. :)”

Taryn Christion Roosevelt High School Attending SDSU next year majoring in Pre-med and playing football for the Jackrabbits.

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Maisie Hurd Bridgewater-Emery High School Attending Briar Cliff University in Sioux City, Iowa “I will study Occupational Therapy and art to one day perform art therapy with the elderly population. I have also signed to play golf for Briar Cliff. My favorite thing about Peace is that it supplies me with opportunities to help others through Necessities for Neighbors and Food to you. My favorite memory is making my First Communion wafers with my Nana at the church and having my whole family come and share in my First Communion meal. Thank you congregation for being so welcoming. And for the cookies.”

Rachel Dickerson Roosevelt High School Attending University of Nebraska-Lincoln to study Anthropology and Pre-Law. Favorite Peace memory is hunting for Easter eggs at Good Friday Day Camp. Favorite Peace tradition is the polka service. “I would just like to thank the congregation for being my mentors as I grew up, and providing me with a church I feel I can always call home.”

Anna Mahowald Roosevelt High School Augustana College for Nursing Favorite Bible Story: “Every Christmas, our whole family gathers and one of the older kids reads the story of Jesus' birth from the Gospel of Luke. This past Christmas it was my turn. I cherish the family tradition of sharing such a beautiful part of the New Testament with each other.”

Kyle Boehmer Roosevelt High School Attending SD School of Mines and Technology for Computer Engineering

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WELCOME, DEAN!

Dean Ebbinga is the new Facilities Manager at Peace his duties include Administrative and Maintenance needs of the facility and property. We asked him to tell us a little about himself:

“I have been married for almost 22 years to my wife Brenda (who is a CPA), and we have 3 children, each of which is a story of their own. Julia, our oldest came to us via adoption. She participates in soccer, track and basketball, along with several other school activities. Kiara, our middle child, enjoys playing her saxophone in both Jazz and Concert band and occasionally special music for church services. Then there is Lucas, also adopted, who is into most sports, but his favorites are football, wrestling, and baseball. Julia, Kiara and Lucas also participate in 4H, so we also keep a small flock of sheep. We attend West Wall Lake Zion Lutheran Church, rural Hartford, SD.

I am a two time graduate from SDSU with two separate Majors. I earned my first degree in 1992, then the second in 2012, both of which pertain to agriculture. The years

between being a college student, were filled up with dairy farming and then Mechanical Construction (HVAC). Following the latest collegiate degree in 2012, I had a short tenure with a Coop as an Agronomist. Upon acquiring a position as a maintenance / handyman in Hartford for the newly remodeled Coffee Cup, I utilized my skills learned from being a farm raised boy and former commercial HVAC construction installer and fabricator. Along with other skills learned along the way such as plumber, mechanic, public relations, job site and work place safety. I am an enthusiastic person who likes to work hard and see his accomplishments.

I want to thank all of you for this opportunity to work for and with you.”

Kylie Schmidt O'Gorman High School Attending St. Catherine University in St. Paul Favorite Peace Memory: Getting ice cream with the best confirmation group ever :) Favorite Tradition: The Senior Quilts! They are beautiful, unique, and meaningful. Favorite Bible story: “The story of Cain and Abel. It shows that God has mercy for us no matter what we do. He protects Cain even after he is banished from Eden, just as he will also protect and guide us. Congregation: Thank you for being a wonderful Church home!”

Katlyn DiPasquale Roosevelt High School Attending the University of Minnesota - majoring in Kinesiology with a minor in Spanish. “My favorite memory at Peace would have to be attending the 2012 ELCA Youth Gathering in New Orleans. It was a week filled with fellowship, faith, and fun. The week opened my heart to God and allowed me to realize how blessed I truly am with all I have.”

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Goodbye, Mrs. Sue Sue Olsen started as a preschool teaching assistant in January of 1985. Mrs. Sue as she’s known by the now thousands of three and four year olds who had her as a teacher taught full-time until she took over as director in 2003. Janet Steinwand started Peace Lutheran Preschool 30 years ago as an outreach for the community. That’s still a mission Mrs. Sue takes very seriously. “We still have children come to us who don’t actively attend church, and because we’re church based they get to hear the bible stories. It’s a great ministry for families,” said Sue.

Preschool is a place for kids to interact and learn how to get along. “Social interaction doesn’t change with the times,” said Sue. “It’s important even more today to have that place to use imagination and play to teach.” Mrs. Sue has taught sixth grade, Title II resource and spent 11 years as a stay at home mom with her three children and volunteering in the community. She said she likes the younger kids best because they’re excited about discovering new things. “And everything is new. They get that twinkle in their eye and they love learning and they love their teachers,” she said. Sue sheepishly admits that she now has children of former students in preschool. “One dad came to make a boat with his daughter. He still has his boat and they race them during tub time,” she said. The most memorable moments for Mrs. Sue include the activities that provide the wow experience like obstacle courses; having caterpillars in

the classroom and watching them turn into butterflies and also the Christmas Programs. “I also love watching these kids grow up and do great things.” As far as retirement goes, Sue said her husband Greg has plans for them. They’ll help their daughter and family move, spend time in Montana with their son, and they’re going to attend the annual Custer State Park Buffalo Roundup. “It’s time Greg and I do things together,” she said.

PeaceTalk 17

Only Tools, Technology and Times Have Changed A Tribute to Maurine Pederson

As Maurine Pederson reflects about her 30 years in the church office, she focuses on how tools, technology and times have changed. When she started on May 15, 1985, she worked six hours a day at $5/hour. There were 1442 baptized members and she was responsible for the bulletins, the newsletter, the permanent records, the finances and the list goes on and on. “I had to do it all,” she said. She felt lucky to have had an electric memory typewriter, but most of all she said it’s not all about the equipment but instead she feels blessed to have worked with so many wonderful people. The people being wonderful hasn’t changed but technology sure has.

“I remember sending out the newsletters, we used a mimeograph machine using stencils to make copies,” said Maurine. When it came time to address them she drove to First Lutheran to use an addressograph machine. Each family had a metal plate with their name and address,” she said. “I would put the plate in the machine to stamp the address. It was still faster than hand addressing each one,” she laughed. “Things have changed.” The first computerized data system was a big step for Peace. Maurine went to Minneapolis for several days of training. It’s a system we’re still using today. One thing hasn’t changed, the many volunteers who see what’s needed and get it done. “I don’t really even have to ask, they are so appreciated as the church wouldn’t function without them,” said Maurine. Maurine is the office manager now and she supervises four people. The congregation has grown by three thousand additional members. While technology makes it easier, “there’s just more to do.” Maurine has been the fixture in the office greeting young couples planning a wedding, grieving families planning a funeral, and the scores of others who are in need of pastoral care, and even greeting her future boss. Pastor Paul Stjernholm remembers Maurine was the first person he met when he arrived for his interview. “I have a pretty clear memory of her behind her desk in the old office, with a beaming and welcoming smile. Twenty-two years later, I am still greeted with that same smile every morning. Maurine is one of the reasons that Peace has been such a great place for all of us to come to work every day,” said Pastor Paul. Maurine has her own ministry said Pastor Paul. “Her graciousness and kindness are the embodiment of hospitality. Through her ministry people have come to know Peace Lutheran Church as a place where they are welcome.” Maurine has worked for all three senior pastors and it’s a job she enjoys. Each day brings something unexpected and the pastors are witty and make the office a fun place to work. But come May 15, 2015, thirty years to her first day on the job, Maurine will leave her high-powered computer and giant copy machine with no regrets, only happy memories.

PeaceTalk 18

Each Week in May Tuesday: 6:45 AM – Men’s Breakfast 7:00 AM – High School Breakfast 6:30 PM – Peace Brass 7:30 PM – Lifeline Rehearsal 7:30 PM – Marty’s Mug Wednesday: 6:30 AM – Women’s Bible Study 4:15 PM – 6th & 7th after school 5:00 PM – Wednesday Meal 5:15 PM – Wednesday School 5:15 PM – 6th & 7th Confirmation 5:45 PM – 6th & 7th Confirmation 6:00 PM – Adult Study 6:00 PM – Adult Bell Choir 6:15 PM – Wednesday School 6:15 PM – 6th & 7th Confirmation 7:05 PM – Worship 8:00 PM – Adult Choir 8:00 PM – 8th & 9th Confirmation 8:00 PM – Spirit of Peace Friday: 10:30 AM – Crossways Bible Study Sunday: 9:00 AM – Adult Study 10:15 AM – ASL Bible Study 5:00 PM – High School Youth Group MANY WEEKLY PROGRAMS END MAY 17 FOR THE SUMMER

Weekly Worship Schedule

Saturday: 5:30 p.m. – Traditional Worship+ Sunday: 8 a.m. – Traditional Worship 9 a.m. – Contemporary* 10:10 a.m. – Traditional Worship 11:20 a.m. – Contemporary+ Wednesday: 7:05 p.m. – Contemporary Worship Communion Served First and Third Sunday and following Wednesday. + Communion Weekly * Interpreted Worship for the Deaf Sunday School: 9, 10:10, 11:20 a.m. BEGINNING MAY 24 SUMMER SUNDAY SCHEDULE: 8:30, 9:45 AND 11:00

Other Events In May May 2 – 11:00 AM – Baptism Class May 3 – 3:00 PM – Necessities for Neighbors

6:00 PM – Senior Reception May 4 – 7:00 PM – Home Communion Training May 6 – 9:00 AM – Mommy and Me May 7 – 9:30 AM – Women’s Quilting 1:00 PM – Seniors Game Day May 9 – 11:00 AM – Home Communion Training May 12 – 7:30 PM – Marty’s Mug May 14 – 7:00 PM – Church Council May 16 – 11:00 AM – Baptism Class May 20 – 9:00 AM – Mommy and Me May 21 – 9:30 AM – Ruth Circle 1:00 PM – Seniors Ministry Games 2:00 PM – Hannah Circle May 24 – Memorial Day – Offices Closed May 26 – 7:30 PM – Marty’s Mug May 30 – 9:00 AM – Mom’s Coffee May 31 – 43:00 PM – Preschool VBS Volunteer Training 4:30 PM – Elementary VBS Volunteer Training

6:30 PM – Music Camp