Of Special Interest:

News from Pastor David & Pastor Jerry p. 2

Leadership Team; Epiphany Choir p.3

MCC Longest Night Service & Solstice Labyrinth Walk; Call for Christmas Eve Prelude music; Christmas Eve

Worship; Traffic Pattern on Christmas Eve p. 4

Ross Brothers Christmas Concert; MCC Community

Group; Habitat for Humanity Opportunities; New Way

to Serve-MCC Community Hosts; MCC GEMS p. 5

MCC Film Group; JAVA for Justice; Lussier Food Pantry; MCC PURLS; MCC Inspire; Meditation Monday

p.6

Meet & Greet CoH Candidate Sonja Ingebritsen; Final

Update from the Advent Call Committee p. 7-8

Sunday School News Adult Forum p .9-11

Adult Forum; Parent Hour; Parent’s Night Out;

Caroling at St Mary’s Care Center p. 12

Youth News and Family Library; Cancellation Policy p.

13

Christmas Cards for Men & Women in jail; Looking for

MCC Coffee Klatsch members p. 14

Advent News p. 15-16

Community of Hope p. 17

Larger Community Opportunities p. 18-19

Coming Events p.20

Madison Christian Community is an Ecumenical Partnership of

Advent Lutheran Church – ELCA and Community of Hope – UCC

608-836-1455

7118 Old Sauk Rd, Madison WI 53717

May 2016

The Good Word

Pastor Sonja Ingebritsen Pastor Nick Utphall Community of Hope Advent

824-1762 — C# 509-5022 824-1761 — C# 444-2271

mccrevsonja@tds.net mccnick@tds.net

There is nothing ordinary about the every day.

That’s how the past few days have felt. What I

expected to do, and what enfolded were very

different. Maybe it’s a pastor thing, because

that’s how most days feel. But maybe it’s more

universal--“Life is what happens to you while

you’re busy making other plans.” Some of the

unexpecteds for me recently have involved

being present with those who are experiencing

major detours in their lives.

Life is nothing if it isn’t a series of detours. I’ve

yet to meet a person who has planned a day, let

alone a life, and been able to check everything

off their list in an orderly fashion. Would we

even want to be able to do that? Even if we

could spare ourselves uncertainty or grief,

wouldn’t we also miss those unplanned

opportunities for joy and the seasons in which

we have been made aware of grace sufficient

for the journey?

Among my unplanned encounters this week, I’ve

been in and out of hospital rooms. I witnessed

resilience and connection, anxiety and strength,

pain and even laughter. Gifts abounded, even

with the desire for circumstances to be

different. Besides the person-to-person

encounters, at one point I was looking out a 5th

floor hospital window at a gorgeous stand of

trees. It would have been a beautiful sight at

any time, but to see spring pop from that aerial

view was stunning. Surely a resurrection

reminder.

Yesterday, after standing as a peaceful

presence for the young people at Middleton

High School during their weekly protest of the

“Jesus Lunches,” I went to grab my own lunch

before heading back to the office. “What’s the

word, Pastor?” the cashier asked me. He’d

noticed my clerical collar. “Hope,” I said.

“Alright,” he smiled. Continues top of page 2

Of Special Interest:

Memorial Garden Work Party;

Refugee Resettlement;

Hospitalizations & Pastoral

Care; MCC Coffee Klatschers

p. 2

Why?; p.3

Drop-In Shelter; Advent

Mission Endowment Funds

Available; Connect on

Facebook p. 4

MCC GEMS; Salad Supper

Afterglow p.5

Vivid Resettle Memorial

Shared p. 6-7

MCC Men’s First Annual

Tailgate Gathering; Memorial

Garden Work Party; Holy Land

Trip Adult Forum p. 8

MCC Film Group; JAVA for

Justice; Lussier Food Pantry;

MCC PURLS; MCC Inspire;

Meditation Monday p. 9

Youth Events; Spring Concert

with Sherri Hansen & Richard

Bruxvoort, May 13 p.10

Community Support Network

(CSN) Art Exhibit , MCC

Retirements p. 11

Sunday School News

p. 12-13

Choral Music Events p. 13

Advent News p. 14-15

Community of Hope; Larger

Community News p. 16-17

Coming Events: —May p.18

A Word on Endings It feels a little peculiar—having just

crossed a three-month mark at MCC—to

comment on endings. But that is my point

overall; to think of this as a time of end-

ings IS peculiar!

We’ve been talking about this with a great

Confirmation group concluding their stud-

ies and written reflections. Sure, classes

are wrapping up, but this is not an ending.

May 15 is not a graduation ceremony

when they’ll be “done” with church. These

students have been discerning this as a

time of faith going forward, of affirming

their intent to continue in covenant with

this community and with God.

Our high school seniors have been similar-

ly noticing continuity. Sure, some are pre-

paring to move on. But they, too, have

been discussing the difference MCC has

made through the years and how that will

carry forward, along with God’s blessing in

their lives.

This is, then, an early word of warning and

encouragement to all of you: The year is

not ending. Church isn’t done for the sum-

mer. We continue! Sonja and I have

heard—both in jokes and in desperation—

of attendance drop-off. Yes, we have busy

lives. Yes, it is a good time to explore

God’s creation. But please continue to

recall we need to be together, in communi-

ty, as church. So much still is freshly grow-

ing here, and we need you to be part of it.

Even this season of Easter, coming to cul-

mination of 50 days, is hardly an end-

ing. Always we expect new life and new

beginning and much possibility.

Alleluia! Christ is risen! + Nick

Page 2 May 2016

Guiding Principle:

Nurture deep

spirituality and

generosity.

MCC News

Internet Link

Back to

Of Special

Interest:

LOOKING FOR MCC COFFEE KLATSCH MEMBERS The Coffee Klatsch team could use a couple more volunteers to make coffee on

Sunday morning. This means that you would be responsible for making coffee

once every 11-12 weeks. You will be given instructions on how to brew the

coffee. A schedule will be maintained and shared with members making coffee.

This is a great opportunity for groups, families or a couple of friends to

“Klatsch” and catch up. If you are interested, please contact Jean Einerson at

einerward@tds.net or 831-8394.

Refugee Resettlement Welcoming Committee Update: Thank you to all MCC members and friends who have donated household items for the refu-

gee family of 4 arriving late evening on Monday, April 25. The apartment will be an attrac-

tive, welcoming place, thanks to the generosity of our faith community. We also received do-

nations of funds to purchase household cleaning equipment/supplies and health and basic

hygiene items for each family member.

It is amazing that MCC folks gave such a balanced variety of donations, with very few dupli-

cates. In fact, we received all the needed furniture items as well as the miscellaneous deco-

rative and convenience items that will benefit these new neighbors.

Rumor has it that at least two Church Ladies and a GEM were seen one morning loading

curbside "donations". Who better to teach these new Madisonians about recycling and the

alternative economy?

We appreciate the generosity you have already shown in this ministry and are thankful that

we will remain connected with the family in the months ahead.

"I was a stranger and you took me in." Matthew 25:35

Hospitalizations & Pastoral Care Here’s some information on procedures for when you’re in the hospital and would like a pas-

tor to visit: As you’re registering, amid all the other details should be a question about reli-

gion and congregational affiliation. You can list MCC, CoH, or Advent. Our staff will be

checking with hospitals regularly, and if you’ve listed us then we can find out that you’ve

been admitted. Of course, you’re also welcome to tell Pastors Sonja and Nick before you go

in, or to ask for any other sort of visit and spiritual care you may need at any time!

The Memorial Garden Board will sponsor a work party on Saturday May 21. Come anytime between 9:00 am - 11:30 and stay for lunch provided by the Memorial Garden

Board. Work includes weeding, spreading mulch, and raking. Wear gloves, bring small dig-

ging tools to pry out weeds between the memorial stones, rakes, and a small shovel for dig-

ging larger weeds. You may need a small bench or kneeling pad.

Bill Moorman, Memorial Garden Board

Continued from page 1.

My to-do list detours are the reason you’re getting this newsletter late. So, my apologies for

the delay. But I hope you’ve had your own unexpected resurrection reminders in the

meantime.

May we be attentive to the way God’s Spirit moves in and around and through and even

because our life takes detours. Blessings, Pastor Sonja

The Good Word—Published Monthly by the Madison Christian Community

Next Issue: Summer 2016

Articles Due: May 20 to the church office

Newsletter Preparer: Sonja Keesey-Berg

Newsletter Proofing: Lucetta Kanetzke and Doug Johnson

Page 3 May 2016

Guiding Principle:

Work in

environmentally

responsible ways.

MCC News

Internet Link

Back to

Of Special

Interest:

WHY? Why did two denominations decide to build a church together?

Advent had been established in 1960 as a mission congregation (meeting in a Coca Cola

bottling facility on University Avenue) because Madison had begun to grow westward.

Unfortunately, the mission planners chose a site, the corner of Eau Claire and Sheboygan,

which made church growth almost impossible. When a developer expressed interest in

buying our property, our leadership started to explore what other possibilities there might be

besides just picking out another street corner and building just another Lutheran Church.

A breath of ecumenical stirring was in the air as Catholic, Baptist, Episcopal, Methodist, Unit-

ed Church of Christ, Presbyterian, and Lutheran (both Missouri and American Synods) folks

convened to explore the radical prospect of a cooperative, multi-denominational venture.

Whether because of cooler heads or cold feet, one by one denominations started to pull out

of the discussions until only the UCC and Advent remained.

"Let's do it!" they decided. Let's show the world that two denominations can stay true to their

values, beliefs and traditions while sharing a building. By avoiding duplicate costs of main-

taining two facilities, savings can be directed to enhanced mission.

Several factors aided the launch of this crazy new idea: The sale of Advent's property netted

$90,000. The Dauck brothers GAVE five acres of their farm for the building of a church. The

UCC denomination's backing was solid and they proved it by recruiting an experienced

pastor, Daniel Schmiechen, to form a new UCC congregation. Advent's visionary pastor, Ray

Lester, watched as many of his members jumped ship, but he remained firm in his convic-

tion that God was calling us to a new day. Lay leadership was strong at both Advent and

fledgling Community of Hope. And so we weathered the storms.

In the ensuing years we have experienced the many blessings which derive from sharing far

more than just a building. We at MCC today are the beneficiaries of God's grace and the

work and will of those stalwarts of 1967-1970. Hildy McGown

Page 4 May 2016

Guiding Principle:

Cultivate hospitality

and meaningful

connections.

MCC News

Internet Link

Back to

Of Special

Interest:

Advent Mission Endowment Funds Available The Advent Mission Endowment Committee accepts applications, typically biannually, as

funds become available from the invested endowment. The application is available online

and can be printed off to be completed or picked up from the church office. To be consid-

ered, requests for endowment grants must fall into one of the following categories:

*Local faith-based social ministries serving basic human needs

*National/international faith-based organizations meeting basic human needs

*Financial assistance to members for post-secondary education

*Innovative new programs or ministry initiatives within the congregation or MCC

consistent with Advent and MCC mission and purpose

*Environmental stewardship ministries.

If funding is granted, your name and grant amount will be published in endowment commit-

tee communications. Applications can be submitted to the current committee chair, Rita Ol-

son, rrolson930@gmail.com or to the church office on or before May 15, 2016.

The application form will be available in the Advent portion of the MCC website very soon or

from the church office.

DROP-IN SHELTER On Friday, June 3, from 5:00 - 8:00 a, Kristi & Roger Williams, David Keesey-Berg and Tina

Hogle are the volunteers.

If you need a sub, please arrange a switch with others on the list of volunteers. If you have

any questions, please call Ken Streit at 231-1525.

Are You a Facebook User —Connect with Our Community on Facebook Did you know the MCC has two Facebook pages? We have a public Madison Christian Com-

munity Facebook page where anyone can read information about events going on at the MCC

and see pictures of our beautiful church and our ministries in action. We also have a Private

MCC Group on Facebook. This is a private page where we can share prayer requests, topics

and articles for conversation, event information, photos, etc., within our community. The con-

tent on this page can only be seen by members of the MCC. You can search for either page

on Facebook or follow the below link to our public page. You have to request to join the Pri-

vate MCC Group, but all members of the MCC are welcome! If you need help getting connect-

ed, please feel free to contact Kaisa Miller at kaisaumiller@gmail.com or send Kaisa a mes-

sage on Facebook. Madison Christian Community on Facebook

Photos! Private MCC Facebook Group Great collections of MCC photos are available for your viewing pleasure! Recent events in-

clude the prairie burn, pastors’ installation, chicken enclosure reconstruction, and Earth Day

events. Visit our public Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/Madison-Christian-

Community-90156272046/ (You don’t have to be a member of Facebook to see the photos.)

MCC G.E.M.S. (Grumpy Elderly Men)

Members are retired, but not necessarily grumpy or elderly. They meet at MCC on Tuesdays at

10:30 am to discuss books chosen by the group. The Round House, was published Septem-

ber 24, 2013 by Louise Erdrich. The Round House won the National Book Award for fiction.

One of the most revered novelists of our time—a brilliant chronicler of Native-American life—

Louise Erdrich returns to the territory of her bestselling, Pulitzer Prize finalist The Plague of

Doves with The Round House, transporting readers to the Ojibwa reservation in North Dako-

ta. It is an exquisitely told story of a boy on the cusp of manhood who seeks justice and under-

standing in the wake of a terrible crime that upends and forever transforms his family.

Riveting and suspenseful, arguably the most accessible novel to date from the creator of Love

Medicine, The Beet Queen, and The Bingo Palace, Erdrich’s The Round House is a page-

turning masterpiece of literary fiction—at once a powerful coming-of-age story, a mystery, and

a tender, moving novel of family, history, and culture.

Contact for GEMS is Jim Eastman (298-7155).

Page 5 May 2016

Guiding Principle:

Engage one another,

neighbors, and the

wider world in action

to improve people’s

lives.

MCC News

Internet Link

Back to

Of Special

Interest:

SALAD SUPPER The annual Salad Supper was held on April 19 with over 70 Advent and Hope women

including guests. Emily Wixson lead the group in singing a blessing for the meal. Delicious

salads and desserts were enjoyed by all.

The program was presented by Professor Emily Auerbach from the UW Dept. of English who is

also the director of the Odyssey Project. This project helps and makes possible for those in

poverty or low income to get a college education. Emily brought two alumni from the Project

who told of their life struggles which included a homeless mother sleeping in a car with her

young child and a young man getting out of a very bad family situation, including drugs, and

turned his life around to get a college degree. They are both pursuing more education and

now have responsible jobs. Their stories were very touching and inspiring.

A free-will offering was taken and the MCC women donated $1,155 that night which was sent

to Professor Auerbach's Odyssey Project. It was a good evening of eating, fellowship, and

learning.

A big "Thank You" goes out to the women of Advent and Hope who not only attended the

Salad Supper, but helped with all the behind-the-scenes efforts and work to make it an

evening to remember. A special "Thanks" to Sue Carnell who suggested Professor Auerbach

for the program and had a good connection with Emily.

At the close of the evening, with the help of Virginia Stumbo, Gretchen Wahl, and Pastor

Sonja, we all ended up singing the spirited song "Hallelu, Hallelu, Hallelu, Hallelujah, Praise

Ye The Lord." Amen.

Janet Sabatke

President, Women of Advent/MCC

Page 6 May 2016

Strategic

Directive:

Deepen people’s

connections to God

and encourage

practices that feed

their spirits and equip

them for their life

journeys.

MCC News

Internet Link

Back to

Of Special

Interest:

VIVID RESETTLEMENT MEMORIES SHARED Margaret Smith, a long time member of Advent/MCC, shares her recollections of nearly 4

decades of welcoming, supporting, and learning to know refugee families

Our participation in the present resettlement project brings back LOTS of memories...going

back over 36 years. The young children of our first family--Hmong people--would now be 42

and 41 years old and their young uncle would now be 52. I often think of them – especially

the 16 year old-- as he had shown such interest, willingness and gratitude for being here.

I wonder if they survived. Al Wahl told me the Hmong family St Luke’s-Middleton sponsored

in 1980 had moved to Minneapolis and all later died...apparently from an illness which af-

fected many of the Hmong in the area at that time.

Our sponsorship of the Hmong was under the guidance of Lutheran Social Services. We had

less than $1000 for the entire resettlement project. Since the Hmong had helped the USA

during the Vietnam war, they were also entitled to monthly compensation from the US gov-

ernment. The family of four were to arrive the end of April 1980, but at the last minute the

16 year old brother of the father of the family joined them. Suddenly the sponsorship was

for five – meaning we needed a three bedroom apartment now--not the two bedroom we

hoped to get in low-income housing – which we never did find.

The family became lost in route to Madison--got off at the wrong airport--and no trace could

be found of them. In the meantime we, the welcoming committee, were at Dane County air-

port trying to locate them. Finally after waiting there for five hours, we learned they had dis-

embarked in Milwaukee and, without anyone to meet them, were waiting and wandering at

that airport. They reached Madison at midnight.

The next afternoon the 6-year-old had to be hospitalized for severe dehydration. This con-

fused and frightened the parents, who knew nothing about medical facilities, medical care,

or doctors. The local East Asian interpreter, who was to help us with language, was of a dif-

ferent Hmong clan and caste and we couldn’t get him to come to the hospital to help with

communication.

A week later we found out the mother was pregnant. Then we learned she was infected with

a parasite. Her physician was very concerned that she needed treatment with antibiotics

immediately, especially in light of the pregnancy. Despite our explanations and teaching

about the urgent need, she was not treated for the parasites. Her husband believed it would

be dangerous for her to take medication during pregnancy and would not allow her to do

so. This situation was very difficult for me, both as a nurse and as a person advocating for

the best possible outcome for her and her child.

All of these events occurred within a few days of their arrival. There were more ongoing con-

cerns as the weeks and months passed. The challenges required great determination on

their part and prayerful support for them and for those who advocated for them.

Later, in the mid-80’s, the experience of the MCC with Central American refugee relocation

went much better, despite the inherent risks to all who participated. Thinking back about it

reminds me how courageous Andrew Rogness and Dan Schmeichen, pastors of Advent and

Hope, had to be. They were the public faces of the project. They took responsibility for relat-

ing to the community and to the government agencies whose agents were trying to enforce

the laws prohibiting the refugees from being in Madison and requiring them to be arrested

and deported. Continues on the next page.

Page 7 May 2016

Strategic

Directive:

Strengthen and build

relationships within

MCC, and foster an

open and welcoming

environment

MCC News

Internet Link

Back to

Of Special

Interest:

I well remember sitting with the Central Americans at the hide-out, trying to stay out of their

way and giving them some privacy as a family, but at the same time being available to an-

swer any phone call or knock on the door. We knew there was a good chance it might be

a government authority at the other end. It was a great relief when the family was able to

escape across the border into Canada with the capable help of their MCC friends. There

they found permanent refuge and a new life without fear for their families.

In 1990 I reluctantly decided to attend the first meeting of representatives from five church-

es who had committed to a project involving resettling Cambodians. At that time, local Cam-

bodians who were Madison residents banded together and sponsored three Cambodian refu-

gee families –totaling 13 people. I was willing to offer insight into what MCC had attempted

to do in the past, so those directly involved could learn from our experience. The churches

gave some guidance and help in overseeing the challenges involved in their health, job seek-

ing, and education. I decided that my role would be limited to being a resource, listening and

offering insight from time to time if needed. HAHAHA.

Shortly after they arrived, a member of one of the sponsoring churches--a nurse who had ac-

cepted responsibility for coordinating their health needs and care with Dane County Health--

had to bow out of the group after just a few meetings. She turned it over to me, leaving with-

out any direction. All of sudden we had concern that there might be individuals in one of the

families who had tuberculosis. This was eventually found not to be the case, but required

intensive, consistent follow up. Then there were several children who had an intestinal infec-

tion with a parasite; this was ongoing for several months, being transmitted back and forth

among the children and requiring systematic, sustained assessment and treatment until it

was finally eliminated. We also organized volunteers to take children to have dental needs

addressed at MATC's dental hygienist free clinic.

Other church volunteers in the group committed to: finding jobs for the adults – which didn’t

always work out for the refugees because of some of their customs or abilities; taking them

shopping and offering help with choosing proper foods; helping them learn to drive, with em-

phasis on learning rules and regulations. They soon had their drivers' licenses and bought a

car. One of the women also learned to drive.

After only a year they were able, on their own finances and with the Cambodian community

guidance, to buy their four-plex apartment. A few years later they sold it and each family pur-

chased their own homes.

I applaud and support the MCC in its current commitment to partner with LSS in resettling yet

another family and I’m thankful they will be safe and out of harm’s way in the turbulence of

the Middle East. They are in our prayers and hopes that they will experience genuine wel-

come and a bright future in our community.

MCC Men's First Annual Tailgate Gathering—Monday, May 9 After decades of quietly waiting for the MCC Women to organize an event for us, the MCC

Men have decided to take the initiative and create a Guy Thing.

The First Annual MCC Men's Tailgater will be Monday, May 9. Our purpose is to bring to-

gether COH and Advent men of all generations. We also want to invite friends we have al-

ready talked to about MCC, but who may be cautious about coming for Sunday worship.

DAVE KEESEY-BERG - esteemed story-teller - will delight and inspire us with a few stories for

the evening's entertainment.

We will have grills and the food and beverages that you'd expect at a tailgate-picnic. Name

tags to ease introductions. Probably some bean bag toss, lawn darts, etc. We won't be too

rowdy, so you can bring your sons.

Sponsored by Advent Monday Morning Guys.

Social Hour begins at 5:30 pm, 6:15 pm a story or two with food following.

Page 8 May 2016

Strategic

Directive:

Care for Creation and

help others to do so

as swell

MCC News

Internet Link

Back to

Of Special

Interest:

Memorial Garden Workday Keep our memorial garden beautiful, reflective,

and weed-free! Gather for a workday at 9:00 on

Saturday, May 21. We accomplished lots at

the congregational Earth Day caretaking event,

but could still use your help.

Holy Land Forum & Trip Details The May 15 9:00 adult forum will be an occasion to explore some more of

what Palestinian Christians are doing for peace and justice these days,

and perhaps hear some more about the Holy Land trip, Seeds of Hope

October 28-November 6, hosted by Pastor Nick. There are still a few spots

available to explore ancient pilgrimage sites and current life under occupa-

tion, but please plan to register by May 27. For more info, talk to Nick or

go to http://gtd.org/gtd_tripshow.asp?isearch=1

JAVA for JUSTICE — If you missed May 1, the next order date June 5. If you ordered on May

1, your order will be ready for pick-up up Sunday. May 8. Coffee can be purchased in 12 oz.

($10) or 4 lb. ($45) bags; regular or decaf; bean, drip or perk. Make your checks payable to

Mt. Meru Coffee Project and place them in the envelope by the sign-up sheet in the Shalom

Room on the Coffee Table. Your support remains the sustaining force in the lives of many cof-

fee-farming families in Tanzania. Thanks for your continued support, Susan Gruber.

Meditation Monday for MCC Friends Begin your week with balance and peace of mind. We welcome all who’d like to join us in the

Covenant Room, 5:30-6:30 pm each Monday. We begin by listening to a brief “dharma talk”

that explores different aspects of a meditation practice, then sit in mindfulness for about 20

minutes. Afterwards we may talk about our experiences (or not). Wear comfortable clothes

and bring a pillow(s) or blanket. Namaste! Contact: Bob Sessions.

Inspire Thursday, May 12 @ 8 pm, at Alyssa Sellwood's

This is an evening group for MCC women who seek to inspire and be inspired. We share deep

fellowship that is rooted in deepening our faith. We take turns bringing a topic of discussion

and may read a brief article or passage ahead of time. We meet the 2nd Thursdays at 8 pm.

Contact: Kaisa Miller at (kaisaumiller@gmail.com).

Food Drive for Lussier Food Pantry You may bring food for the pantry anytime and place it in the basket located by the guestbook

table. Suggested items include canned goods (fruit, vegetables, tuna, beef stew, fruit juice,

etc.), peanut butter, jelly, and cereal. We also need large paper grocery bags.

Please do not put pet food in with donations for the Lussier Food Pantry.

We do not have facilities to handle fresh produce. For those who prefer to donate money,

checks can be made out to the Lussier Community Education Center, designated for the

pantry. Dobbin McNatt, Coordinator

MCC Purls meets the third Tuesday of the month, May 17 at 10:30 am, at MCC We welcome anyone interested in this ministry, experienced knitter or crocheter or beginner or

those in-between. We make prayer shawls, hats, mittens, scarves and headbands.

We are accepting any yarn you care to donate. Please mark your bags “PURLS” and leave by

the guestbook table. If you have any questions about our group, please call Virginia Stumbo,

695-2266.

Page 9 May 2016

Strategic

Directive:

Focus on meaningful

partnerships that

work for justice and

enhance the quality

of life for people

around us.

MCC News

Internet Link

Back to

Of Special

Interest:

MCC Film Group—Friday, May 20, 7:00 pm

MCC Film Group will watch Temple Grandon, a film about a remarkable autistic woman who

develops a more humane method for treating cattle gong to market. We will meet at 7:00

pm at Dorothy and Gurdip Brar's home. They live at 1312 Sweeney Drive, Middleton; phone

831-4075 or email Dorothy at dwbrar@gmail.com that you will be coming. Bring a snack to

share. Lois Komai

Page 10 May 2016

Guiding Principle:

Nurture deep

spirituality and

generosity.

YOUTH Events Upcoming

Internet Link

Back to

Of Special

Interest:

Confirmation & Pentecost On May 15, we celebrate as a group of our students completes the confirmation program

and choose to affirm their faith. At this shared MCC service, students will be leading wor-

ship. They’ve also been writing reflection papers with their mentors and will be sharing part

of their faith statement. Plus, the beloved slideshow! Please pray for, congratulate, and

have conversation with these students during this time: Egan Johnson, Ethan Hind, Tyler

Huff, Sam Szalkowski, Kenny Redd, Sam Malecki, and Owen Strong.

Also, May 15 is the celebration of Pentecost, a great day to wear vibrant red as a marker of

the Holy Spirit’s work among us!

Fun Youth (and Others!) Events May 7 at 10:00 at Grundahl Park in Mt. Horeb, the 6th annual Color Walk for Water, a fund-

raising event ($20 for age 12 and up) is a 5K walk carrying a water bucket to experience

what many women and children do every day in developing countries that do not have ac-

cess to clean water. All proceeds fund wells in El Salvador. This is a perfect wrap-up for

"Change for Change" from our children focusing on water during Lent.

Senior Recognition At our shared MCC worship service on May 22, besides celebrating a great year of Sunday

School and thanking a huge cadre of teachers, we’ll also have the opportunity to celebrate

our graduating seniors: Sallie Bestul, Sadie Crews-Nelson, Alex DeMeuse, Allie Hietpas,

Amanda Huff, Molly Kuhn, Rosa Ohlrogge, Emma Strong, and Marcella VanKan.

For May 22, they are designing and leading worship with the children, and they will be shar-

ing some reflections on what MCC has meant to them and how they expect God to go with

them in the next part of their journey. Two Sundays remain, May 8 and 15th, to find the

station in the Shalom Room to write notes of encouragement and blessing to these stu-

dents. And please keep them in prayer for this time of transition.

Confirmation Youth Upcoming Classes: Wednesdays, 7 pm, May 4, May 11

Confirmation Day May 15! This will be a shared MCC youth-led worship service involving

the confirmation class, with special musical accompaniment by Richard Bruxvoort-Colligan

Friday, May 13, 7 pm Sherri Hansen & Richard Bruxvoort-Colligan in Concert at the MCC! Both musicians have lovely hymn arrangements and new music to share -

expect enjoyable audience participation. Refreshments and fellowship following.

MCC connections: Richard wrote "Sharing the Road" and "Hidden with Christ" and other

psalm-based music that the MCC enjoys; Sherri used to be a member of Advent and accom-

panist here!

MCC News—April-May Art Exhibit Guiding Principle:

Work in

environmentally

responsible ways.

Internet Link-

Back to

Of Special

Interest:

Page 11 2011 May 2016

Community Support Network (CSN) Traveling Art Gallery at MCC Some of our clients, who do not have jobs, stay at the CSN building and participate in en-

richment activities. The result of those activities is what you are seeing now with the Trav-

eling Art Gallery. All of the art you see was created by men and women with developmen-

tal disabilities. The art they create is an ideal means of expression to tell their stories and

showcase their talents. We are honored that you have offered to host our Art Gallery here

at MCC. This means so much to our clients, their families and our staff who know their

talents and gifts very well and are so pleased to have this opportunity for sharing and

'showing off' what our clients can do.

Madison Christian Community has supported CSN for many years by hiring our clients to

work at MCC weekly. Clayton, Betty and Danny are here on Tuesdays and Wednesdays to

take out trash and to vacuum all carpeting in all areas of the building, upstairs and down-

stairs. Leda and Mandy are here every Monday morning to clean restrooms and do other

general cleaning after Sunday Services.

We are especially grateful to Sonja, Tom and Jen who have formed warm relationships

with Clayton, Betty, Danny, Leda and Mandy. They have always been very kind, generous

and sensitive to our clients and our clients always look forward to coming to MCC, not on-

ly to work here, but to say 'hi' to the people here at MCC who support them. Your staff,

and other congregants they have met over time, have always been very good to our client

employees and we appreciate your friendship and warmth.

Honor Sonja Keesey-Berg on Sunday June 5 at a MCC picnic following worship We celebrate with Sonja Keesey-Berg, grateful for all her work as the MCC Administrative

Assistant for 23 years! She has been the steadying presence, a visionary, and a sympa-

thetic ear for all who call the office. She has worked with our congregations, a number

staff, and 14 interim pastors, interns, and settled pastors. She has guided, prompted,

and motivated us to do the work of the church both inside and outside. Her vision and

energy has seen the completion of gardens where once there was an overgrown field filled

with shrubs and trees. Our labyrinth ministry has been so vital for the Madison communi-

ty, another one of Sonja’s dreams.

Come celebrate her gifts and presence with us on Sunday June 5 after worship on the

MCC grounds with a catered picnic.

Honor Jean Oliversen on May 29 with cake and coffee after Worship Jean Oliversen is retiring May 31. Jean has worn a number of hats at the MCC for ap-

proximately 23 years. She and her husband, Otto, were custodians. Jean continued car-

ing for many aspects of the MCC after Otto’s death. She was instrumental in kitchen

clean-up on Mondays and after Sunday services; she tirelessly opened and returned to

lock the church for many piano recitals; she watered and cared for our indoor

plants. Thank her for her many behind-the-scenes work on Sunday after worship with

cake, fruit, and coffee.

Page 12 2011 May 2016

Sunday School News —from Jen Streit

Change for Change

We sent $386 to the UCC Emergency Fund with the designation of Flint, MI, and $386 to Lutheran

World Relief with the designation of building a well where needed in the world. Total = $772!

Thanks for your support!

Consider participating in the Color Walk for Water on May 7 in Mt Horeb:

https://lwi.wufoo.com/forms/color-walk-for-water/

Favorite Moments from Sunday School in April:

ABOVE: Dancing ribbons with

Sarah Zutz at MUSIC

LEFT: Making bird feeders &

learning about St. Francis for

Earth Day with Lindy Wilson at

CREATE

LEFT & BELOW: Learning about creation & stewardship with Lois Komai at STORY;

taking a close look at creation and creating fire (perhaps inspired by the MCC property

tour with Jean Einerson & Ann Ward at MOVE which included the burned prairie...)

Page 13 2011 May 2016

Sunday School News, continued —from Jen Streit

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Saturday, May 7 10 am – Color Walk for Water (see page 9)

Friday, May 13 – 7 pm Concert with Richard Bruxvoort-Colligan and Sherri Hansen

Sunday, May 15 - Confirmation Celebration Worship

Friday, May 20 – 5:30-7 pm Free Community Dinner at the Lussier Center

Sunday, May 22 – Youth-Led Service & Sundae Sunday – last day of Sunday School!

(If you are able, please bring your favorite ice cream topping to share!)

ALSO, if you haven’t signed up for Summer Family Camps, now is

the time – camps are filling up!

June 17-19 Lutherdale “Mom & Me” Weekend

June 24-25 Lutherdale “Dad & Me” Weekend

July 3-6 Sugar Creek “Family Camp”

July 3-8 Moon Beach “Family Camp” & “Rainbow Family Camp”

July 9-10 Moon Beach “Single Parent Family Camp”

July 10-16 Moon Beach “Family Camp” (Full)

July 17-23 Moon Beach “Camp AweSum (ASD)” Family Camp

July 23-24 Lutherdale “Camp 24” Family Weekend

July 24-30 Moon Beach “Family Camp”

July 31-Aug 6 Moon Beach “Family Camp”

Aug 7-14 Moon Beach “Family Camp”

Aug 14-17 Sugar Creek “Family Camp”

PreK Sunday School

Greetings, MCC Singers and those who enjoy listening- Choral music is alive and well this spring within the MCC and around Madison! Here are some events that I

know MCC people are involved with this spring. Happy singing and listening!! :-)

Saturday, May 7

11:00 am PreConcert Q&A with Maestro Joseph Flummerfelt (chorus master of the NY Philharmonic) 7:30

pm Festival Choir, Christ Presbyterian Church, 944 E. Gorham Street in Madison festivalchoirmadison.org/

MCC connections: Jan Langdon, Sara Hulsether

Sunday, May 8 & Saturday, May 14

Choral Arts Society Spring Concert, May 8 (6:30 pm) at Oakwood West Auditorium; May 14 (7 pm) at Im-

manuel Lutheran Church, 1021 Spaight Street choralartsmadison.org

MCC connections: Roger Petersen & Jim Eastman

Friday, May 20 & Sunday, May 22

The Madison Choral Project in collaboration with the Madison Chamber Choir: Martin Mass: Images, Shad-

ows, Dreams; Friday, May 20 (7:30 pm) and Sunday, May 22 (2:30 pm) at First Congregational Church, Madi-

son http://themcp.org/

MCC connections: Jen Streit & the UW Odyssey Project! (Emily Auerbach of the Odyssey Project spoke at the

Women's Salad Supper; MCP & MCC Artistic Director Bert Pinsonneault, has been collaborating with Professor Auerbach and the Odyssey Project! The students have been studying the poetry of one of our pieces and have launched into writing poetry and practicing performance. Several students will be performing their poems within the context of the concert!)

Advent Women Thursday Breakfast Advent women are invited for coffee each Thursday at 7:00 am at Panera Bread at 3461 Uni-

versity Ave. The only agenda is sharing friendship, and there is always laughter. We do service

projects several times a year, pray for one another’s concerns, and celebrate joys. If you can

be an early bird at least once a week, please drop by when your schedule allows!

Advent News

Page 14

Guiding Principle:

Cultivate hospitality

and meaningful

connections.

Third Thursday Women’s Lunch Bunch—May 19 Please contact Jan Robertson (833-6312) with any questions. The group meets at the Prairie

Café, 3109 Pheasant Branch Rd., Middleton, at 11:30 am.

OPALS Book Discussion Group—May 24, 1:30 pm OPALS meets the fourth Tuesday each month at MCC. The book is Some Luck, by Jane Smiley,

2014. This is the story of Langdon family of Denby Iowa and their 5 children. Each chapter is a

year, 1920-1950, and helps us follow American history of those years.

Monday Men’s Breakfast Group, 7:15 am at “Shannon Sunset Lounge”—the entrance to

the Union Theater overlooking Lake Mendota. In the summer we meet on the Union Terrace.

Good conversation, friendship, laughter and support. Contact: Ken Streit, 231-1525.

May 2016

Internet Link

Back to

Of Special

Interest:

Morning Bible Study—May 10 The MORNING BIBLE STUDY group meets the 2nd Tuesday of the month, September

through June, from 9:30-11 am, in the lower level at church. We call ourselves the Judiths

and we are a friendly group of around 8-10 women who enjoy stimulating discussion, a

good cup of coffee and getting to know other MCC women better.

Contact Person: Jean Loichinger 836-1791

Afternoon Bible Study—May 13 Note change of time for May ONLY The second Friday of the month throughout the year, 1:00 - 3:00 pm at Oakwood West

Campus (aka University Woods), the Elizabeth circle of women share a Bible study from

"Gather" magazine, support one another, and financially assist projects in and out of the

MCC. Contact person: Margaret Smith 231-1496

Synod Assembly It was a genuine privilege to represent Advent along with Pastor Nick and Dorothea Tor-

stenson at the annual Assembly of the South-Central Synod of Wisconsin (the 144 ELCA

congregations in our neck of the woods). Uplifting worship, meaningful workshops and

presentations. Even doing the mundane business of the church (e.g. budgets) felt like a

Spirit-led process. I especially appreciated the down-to-earth, gospel-centered leadership

of Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton and our synod bishop Mary Froiland. It was a powerful,

incarnational reminder that we are not in the Jesus revolution alone. We’re in this thing

together.

Larry Henning

Advent Treasury of Love 2016 Love Offerings $2,927.00

Community Pharmacy 12.00

Car Parts 175.00

Gas Voucher 125.00

Shut-off Prevention 855.00

Rent & Eviction Prevention 1,760.00

Expenditure $2927.00

Balance as of 4/28/2016 $0.00

Advent News

Page 15

Guiding Principle:

Engage one another,

neighbors, and the

wider world in action

to improve people’s

lives.

Dear People of Advent, Thank you so much for continuing to extend your regular support to Triangle Ministry through

the South Central Synod of Wisconsin. We depend very heavily on your contributions as we

proclaim God’s word and share God’s love with residents of the Triangle. May God continue

to bless your ministry to your congregation and to greater Madison.

Meg Nielsen, Outreach Director.

Dear MOSES Supporters at Advent Lutheran Church, This letter gratefully acknowledges your 2016 dues payment of $200, received earlier this

month. Your support is essential as MOSES members continue to confront injustice, advocate

for public policy change, and mobilize efforts to promote human rights. Some key MOSES ac-

complishments from 2015 include raising awareness about solitary confinement, participa-

tion in statewide justice advocacy action days, successful opposition to the building of a new

Dane County Jail, and intense involvement in task groups aimed at reforming the Dane Coun-

ty justice system. In 2016, MOSES is again committed to working on local issues, and on WIS-

DOM's statewide campaign, ROC Wisconsin-Restoring Our Communities, as together we seek

not only to reduce over­incarceration, but to move beyond reduction to restoration-of commu-

nities, of families, and of the priorities of our justice system.

MOSES meetings are usually held on the first Saturday of the month, from 10 a.m. to 12 noon,

with time for fellowship before the meeting beginning at 9:30. Our tentative meeting schedule

for the rest of 2016: May 7, June 4, July 9, August 6, September 10, October 1, November 5,

and December 3. Please check the MOSES website at www.mosesmadison.org for the location

of each month's meeting. For more information on the ROC Wisconsin campaign, please see

www.rocwisconsin.org.

Thank you so much for your support. It is truly essential to our mission!

Sincerely,

Ann Lacy

MOSES Financial Secretary

May 2016

Internet Link

Back to

Of Special

Interest:

Hope Men: Pancakes, Puns, Proverbs

and Politics — Those are just a few of the

things you will miss if you don’t get to the

Hope men’s breakfast at the Original Pan-

cake House on University Avenue, at

6:30 am every Wednesday. You have prom-

ised yourself for a long time now. Mark

your calendar, set your alarm, and make it!

Hope Women’s Breakfast Group Solve the World’s Problems With Us--

One Cup of Coffee at a Time

The Community of Hope’s Women’s Break-

fast Group meets the first and third

Wednesday of every month starting at

7:00 am. You are invited to talk, listen,

learn and laugh with us at the Hubbard

Avenue Diner, 7445 Hubbard Avenue, Mid-

dleton, 831-6800. All are welcome. See

you in the morning!

Praying through the Community of

Hope Directory Community of Hope is

committed to nurturing deep spirituality and

generosity, cultivating meaningful connec-

tions and inspiring gratitude, creativity and

joy. One of the ways we approach these

commitments is through prayer. We believe

a regular prayer practice deepens people’s

connections to God, feeds our spirits and

equips us for our life journeys. This ministry

of prayer also strengthens and builds rela-

tionships within our community. This month

we pray for the following people and their

families in our ongoing effort to pray for our

entire congregation throughout each year.

April 24-30

Mary Nack;

Lori Powell & Lynn Miller,

Tony & Isaac Miller-Powell;

May 1-May 7

Bill Rettig & Jean Gilbertson;

Hollis Rudiger, Gus & Fritz;

May 8-May 14

Mary Schmeltzer, Bill Grout, Nick, Katelyn &

Oliva Grout; Dan, Jen, Megan & Lucie Streit

May 15-May 21

Bob & Chris Sessions; Bryan & Meg Sirchio;

Bonnie & Gene Spindler

May 22-May 28

Bill, Wendy & Trevor Stewart; and Mary Beth

Udvari

May 29-June 4

Julia Weaver; Roger & Kristi Williams

Page 16 2011

Guiding Principle:

Inspire gratitude,

creativity, and joy.

Important Dates to Remember!

Birthdays Pat Eddings 5/04

Arden Mahlberg 5/06

Barb Bickford 5/13

Bryan Sirchio 5/18

Michelle Erschen 5/22

Katelyn Grout 5/25

Mary Bowman 5/30

Anniversaries Nancy Getz 5/5

Betty & Corkey Custer 5/31

Please let us know if we have missed

your special day.

Community of Hope News

May 2016

Internet Link

Back to

Of Special

Interest:

Larger Community News

Page 17 2011

Strategic

Directive:

Strengthen and build

relationships within

MCC, and foster an

open and welcoming

environment

Community of Hope News

May 2016

Internet Link

Back to

Of Special

Interest:

Thank you Community of Hope I want to express how incredible the experience was in your church with your community

and with the beautiful service. What an amazing, supportive environment for your con-

gregation. Thank you so much for inviting me and for collecting funds for Rape Crisis

Center. Your congregation was very generous. I would love to join you anytime.

Warm regards, Erin

Erin Thornley Parisi

Executive Director | Rape Crisis Center, Inc.

St. Stephen’s Lutheran Church, Monona, invites You to Join Our Seasoned

Saints Spring Fling! Saturday May 21, 2016

Depart from St. Stephen’s at 8:00 am and return at 6:00 p m.

Who: Seasoned or Unseasoned, Saints or Sinners — All are welcome!

What: The Spring Fling will include: A motorcoach ride through the beautiful hills of south-

west Wisconsin, Visit and tour Wartburg Seminary and enjoy lunch in the Refectory. There

will even be time for photo-ops with Martin Luther! Visit St. Luke’s United Methodist

Church and see its famous Tiffany Glass Windows and Tour the National Mississippi River

Museum and Aquarium.

Cost: $50 per person includes lunch, admission fees, and transportation.

Sign up: by May 15, by calling Pastor Edward (838-6618) or emailing office@ststlc.net

Grow in Faith with the UCC Lay Academy Lay Academy is a ministry of transformation and faith formation offered by the Wisconsin

Conference of the United Church of Christ. Participants dive into scripture, explore theolo-

gy, consider God’s presence in their lives and discover fresh ways to speak about and live

out their faith in their day-to-day lives. Registration is open now through July 31, 2016

for the next cycle of classes, which will begin with an introductory session on August 20

and continue with additional sessions in September, November, January, March and

April. For more detailed information, go to www.wcucc.org/layacademy or talk to Pastor

Sonja.

Community of Hope

Steering Committee

Carol Jensen,

Co-Moderator

Dan Streit, MCC Co-Pres

Rolf Killingstad

Beth Campbell, Treas.

Lois Komai, MCC Co-Pres

Avis Elson, Co-Moderator

Joan Matthews

Advent Council

Joyce Anderson

Ken Johnson

Mary Rowe, President

Kaisa Miller, Secretary

Todd Holman, V.P.

Cindy McGown

Brian Kuhn

Anna Bauer

MCC Leadership Team

Members of both the

Community of Hope

Steering Committee and

the Advent Council

Staff:

Pastor Sonja Ingebritsen

Community of Hope, UCC

mccrevsonja@tds.net

Pastor Nick Utphall

Advent Lutheran, ELCA

mccnick@tds.net

Jen Streit,

Children’s & Family

Ministry

mccjen@tds.net

Sonja Keesey-Berg,

MCC Administrative

Secretary

mcc@chorus.net

Tom Matthews,

MCC Maintenance

mcctom@tds.net

Maintenance Assistant

Fouez Kerbache

MCC Custodians

Jean Oliversen

Community Support Network

Clients

Office Hours:

Monday – Friday

8:00 am – 4:00 pm

Phone: 608-836-1455

If you call our office and

there is no answer,

please leave a message.

We will get back to you.

MCC Logo Design by

Lucetta Kanetzke

Personnel Committee

Ellen Lindgren

Todd Holman

Linda Pils

Lynn Breedlove

Jean Einerson

MCC Pastoral Support

Nancy Getz

Al Heggen

Dorothea Torstenson

Our Partnership– Madison

Christian Community

Advent Lutheran (Evangelical

Lutheran Church in America)

and Community of Hope (United

Church of Christ) are partners in

Christ. Together we are the

Madison Christian Community

(MCC).

We share education for all ages,

youth activities, building space,

fellowship groups and efforts to

preserve the land.

We worship together about 8–

12 times a year. Community of

Hope is an Open and Affirming

congregation and Advent is a

Reconciled in Christ

congregation.

We welcome people of all ages,

denominational backgrounds,

races, genders and sexual

orientations. May our church be

a sanctuary for all!

MCC Mission Statement

We affirm our unity through

Christ and commit to share a

journey grounded in faith

practices and to serve as part of

Christ’s presence in our world.

Our Website: www.madisonchristiancommunity.org.

Connect on Facebook at Madison Christian Community on Facebook

Read or Listen to Sunday sermons!

COH and Advent members find Worship Assistant’s Schedule

Weekly Announcements

Good Word Newsletter

Sunday School News

Youth Schedule of Activities

Kids in the Garden and much more…

Internet Link Back to

Of Special Interest:

Coming Events May 7 Color Walk for Water Event in Mt Horeb

May 9 “First Annual” MCC Men’s Tailgate

with David Keesey-Berg as our storyteller

May 13 Celebrate Spring Concert with

Sherri Hansen & Richard Bruxvoort Colligan, 7:00 p.

May 15 MCC Confirmation Sunday/Pentecost

May 21 Memorial Garden Work Party, 9 am-11:30 am, stay for lunch

May 22 Last Sunday of Education Hour, Senior Recognition Sunday

Youth-Led Service, Sundae Sunday

May 29 Worship at 9:30 a.

Jean Oliversen is retiring. Join in thanking Jean for her many years of dedication to MCC.