Jesus Christ is the bridge between God and us.

Worship Schedule MARCH 2020

Keeping Christ Central in March March 1, 2020 – First Sunday in Lent. Worship with the Junior Bells and Holy Communion at 9:00 a.m. 4K-2nd grades sing. Sunday School is at 10:00 a.m. Remember the coffee hour. Focus reading is: Mark 10:17-31. “A rich young man asked Jesus how he might inherit eternal life, perhaps believing he was already on the right track. When Jesus challenged him to sell his possessions, he recoiled. But eternal life isn’t a gift we can earn. It is a gift from God for whom “all things are possible.” Wednesday, March 4, 2020 - Lenten Worship at 11:00 a.m. followed by the Lenten luncheon. Evening Lenten Worship with the “Joyous Light” worship is at 7:00 pm. Preceded by the Lenten Supper sponsored by the Confirmation youth and their families starting at 6:00 p.m. until the time of worship. Choir meets after the worship. Theme for Living the Christian Faith - Baptism: Newness of Life. It all starts and ends with water and God’s Word. Sunday, March 8, 2020 – Worship with the Adult Choir at 9:00 a.m. followed by the coffee hour. Sunday School is at 10:00 a.m. Focus Reading: Mark 10:32-52. Jesus and his disciples are on the road to Jerusalem. There is no small amount of misunderstanding as to what Jesus is up to. Even today, we mistake Jesus for the glory road, that is, “What’s in it for me?”, rather than the way of the cross and being a servant. This is not always that easy to see. Wednesday, March 11, 2020 - Lenten Worship at 11:00 a.m. followed by the Lenten luncheon. Evening Lenten Worship is at 7:00 pm. with “Holden Evening Prayer”. Preceded by the Lenten Supper sponsored by the Confirmation youth and their families starting at 6:00 p.m. until the time of worship. Choir meets after the worship. Theme for Living the Christian Faith: “The Letters of Paul”. It is the Apostle Paul who organized and made the Christian faith understandable for a new world. Sunday, March 15, 2020 – Worship with the Praise Band and Holy Communion at 9:00 a.m. followed by the coffee hour in the Fellowship Hall. Sunday School gathers at 10:00 a.m. Focus reading: Mark 12:1-12. As Jesus journeys to Jerusalem where he will suffer and die, the tension is build-ing. Jesus teaches in this parable that the world belongs to God. We are its caretakers. Yet, humanity often behaves like the world is ours to use and exploit as we please. Those who heard this were not pleased with Jesus, when he exposed their mismanagement. A very contemporary discussion for us today.

Wednesday, March 18, 2020 -- Lenten Worship at 11:00 a.m. followed by the Lenten luncheon. Evening “Joyous Light” Lenten Worship is at 7:00 p.m. Preceded by the Lenten Supper sponsored by the Confirmation youth and their families starting at 6:00 p.m. until the time of worship. Choir meets after the worship. Theme for Living the Christian Faith: Communion – Taste and See. Sacraments = God’s Word with a physical element. It’s how God gets through to us. Sunday, March 22, 2020 – Worship with Adult Bells at 9:00 a.m. Sunday School is at 10:00 a.m. First Communion classes begin. We will meet in the sanctuary. Focus reading: Mark 12:28-44. Jesus as he heads to Jerusalem is turning expectations upside down. Loving God and loving neighbor are the highest good. A widow who gives all, has all she needs. Jesus’ paradoxical teachings still have us scratching our heads. How can this be? Wednesday, March 25, 2020 - Lenten Worship at 11:00 am. followed by the Lenten luncheon. Evening “Holden Evening Prayer” Lenten Worship is at 7:00 pm. Preceded by the Lenten Supper sponsored by the Confirmation youth and their families starting at 6:00 p.m. until the time of worship. Choir meets after the worship. Theme for Living the Christian Faith: “The Universal Letters.” Living the Christian faith created all kinds of questions. These Universal Letters are witness and guide for us on how to live as believers today. Sunday, March 29, 2020 – Worship and Service of Healing at 9:00 a.m. Coffee hour to follow. Sunday School meets at 10:00 a.m. First Communion will meet at 10:00 a.m. in the church kitchen to bake communion bread. Focus reading: Mark 13:1-8, 24-37. Jesus taught the disciples about the end of all things. But in his words, they learned about the things of now. Be awake and watchful. Life is happening all around us.

Have you had the “what do you want for your funeral” conversation with your family? I know it’s not always the conversation that we would want to have. But it is important. The time of death of a loved one is difficult for the family. There is the overwhelming power of grief and there’s the question of, “Now what do we do?” Accordingly, if one tells one’s family and loved ones what one prefers long before death becomes a reality, it makes those difficult days at the time of death easier. So, if you can discuss whether you want a casket burial or cremation, if you can plan ahead regarding scriptures you want read and what hymns or music do you want used, it is very helpful to the family at the time of death. The other issue that seems to be becoming more common, is whether to have a funeral or memorial service at all. There are perhaps lots of reasons for this, but in my role as pastor I need to promote the ministry of the congregation at the time of death and how that becomes a healing and helpful time for those that survive the loved one who has died. First of all, as human beings we need to gather around those we love at the time of death. We need to have a ritual that enables the healing power of remembering, grieving and honoring the life of those who have died as we gather as a community. We need that time to bring to resolution all that death brings into our lives. In our gathering as a faith community there is healing. Additionally, it is particularly at the time of death, that the gospel of Jesus Christ becomes ready to be heard by those grieving. Grief opens us up to the good news of Jesus’ victory over the grave. Even in the midst of death’s darkness, we have this hope that never fades. Thus, funerals become a time for the Church’s witness in a world where that is becoming much more difficult to do. In the many relationships of family, friends and community, there are many we know who do not know the gospel’s power to bring hope and comfort when a death occurs. Precisely in our world today, a Christian funeral becomes the occasion when many are ready to listen to the Easter good news of Jesus’ victory over death. And our victory over death.

In sum, this is all about how we say goodbye. Though we may have those precious last conversations with those that are dying, and in those words find peace in the acceptance of death of those we love. We also find resolution that we had our say and expressed our love. We often phrase this as our final farewells. I also believe a community becomes healthier when it too is allowed its final farewells. When that does not happen, it leaves an empty spot in our lives. Some-thing is missing. Of course, life will go on. Therefore, I encourage you to have these conversa-tions. Remember a funeral is about you, but it is not for you. It is for those who miss you, grieve over you and love you. In death we are made free. In death we are raised to new life. It’s all good. Yet, there are those still living for whom the pain of death lingers. Our gathering around God’s Word at that time brings healing. It gives up hope for the journey of life for the rest of us until we too are called to our heavenly home. So, what do you want for your funeral? Keeping Christ Central, Pastor Rolf G Morck

From the Pastor

Central Council February 10, 2020

. ACTION ITEMS: 1. Lighting Project Update—lights in the hallway,

office, lounge and fellowship hall have been replaced. Control panel will be installed in February or March.

2. CAT Survey—working out details on children’s time during the church service. More details to come. Planning has started to have Sunday School children join during coffee hour for games and refreshments. Contact has been made with Erin Nelson regarding cross generational ministry and what options are available.

3. Council Program Committee—the following council members were assigned to various committees: Worship-Carlee Norby and Dave Mathis/Congregational Life-Chris Rud; Youth—Melissa Kreibich/Stewardship/Reaching & Caring—Sharon Bornfleth; Finance—Paul Franzwa/Property—David Plagenz. One more council member is needed, possible candidates were shared.

4. Bold Generosity Grant — an amendment will be made to previous submission, deadline is April 1.

5. ELCA Constitution—Tentative date of Feb. 23rd to vote after church service on changes to constitution.

INFORMATION: 1. Youth Education— “Kids for Christ continues to

slowly grow and are doing some great things. On January 26, 10 youth plus chaperones attended the Usharika wo Christian Church in the Twin Cities. All had a positive experience. Members from that church will be joining Central in March or April. Planning a possible youth trip. National Youth Gath-ering is in July, 2021. Fundraising for the trip will begin soon. KFC will sponsor the Sharing Table in August.

2. Financial—Motion made and passed to give $1000 towards synod benevolence for January.

Next Meeting: Executive—Monday, March 2 @ 6:00 p.m. Council—Monday, March 9 @ 6:00 p.m.

In 1 Thessalonians 5:11 we read, “...encourage one another and build each other up.” Families and individuals who are remembered in prayer during March

March 1— Bonnie Oesau; Christina and Chloe Oesau; Greg Ronnei; Greta Schreiner; Alan Urness; Doug and Karen Hulke; Jake and Sadie Hulke, Carter and Josie

March 8—Rock Bauer; Rick and Sue Christianson, Ryan and Brent; Denise Fitzgerald and Kennedy; Sonja Kamla and Cole; Gary and Linda Preston

March 15—Todd and Lori Ness, Emily, Madeline and Benjamin; Delores Ronnei; Dennis and Judy Thompson; Scott and Mary Lou Lagerstrom and Samantha

March 22—Kim and Vickie Allemann and Matthew; Sarah Fedie, Mackenzie and Barrett; Stanley Christian-son; Monica and Frank Brantner; Jeremy Fitzgerald; Jessica Fitzgerald Miller, Arbor, Micah, Aryah and Lilah March 29—Martin and Becky Hallock, Jonathon and Joshua; Erick and Natasha Johnson; Pamela Larson, Eric and Joey; Jane Nogle, Seth and Shae; Scot and Darcie Nogle, Brysen and Anicka; Bruce and Lori Olson and Travis; Alisha and D. Grant Lewis and Alivia

Pastor Rolf can be reached at home at 715-926-1128 or by cell phone at 715-495-7007.

Pastoral Acts Funerals: A. Miller Johnson Feb. 12

Our Financial Status February 24

Income to date: $38,558

Expenses to date: $44,049

Borrowed to meet expenses: $0

Do You Hear Something New!? Thank you to Michelle Alexander for donating the new chimes to our bell choirs!

Quilting Dates: March 9th and 23rd @ 1:00 p.m. New quilters are always welcome and we'll "train" you. If you can tie a knot you qualify Just bring a scissors, needle and maybe some treats to share at coffee time.

Central Lutheran Church Women

Central Lutheran Church women - All women of Central are invited to participate - meetings are held monthly - see bulletin, CLCW Directory and newsletter for up-coming programs and features.

2020 CLCW Directories that list circles, projects and programs are available in the

narthex. Be sure to take a copy!

CLCW NEWS CLCW Meeting - Tues., March 17th @ 1:30 p.m. Program: “Have You Read a Good Book Lately?”

YOUTH NEWS

4K-2nd Grade Sing—March 1 @ 9:00 a.m. First Communion for 5th Graders—April 5 @

9:00 a.m. Easter—No Sunday School—Sunday, April 12 Last Day of Summer School—Chicken Dinner—

May 17

REGISTRATION IS OPEN FOR LUTHER PARK

SUMMER CAMP!

Luther Park Bible Camp, Chetek, is pleased to announce that summer camp registration for all the 2020 summer camp programs is now available. Secure online registra-tion is available on the camp website using a credit card. You also have the option of printing out a registration form from the website and registering by mail. 2020 summer camp brochures are available at church. To get your first choice of weeks and programs, register today! And take advantage of the $20 Early Bird Discount if you register online (or postmark) by May 1st.

Lenten Supper Menu* Serving at 6 p.m. each Wednesday in Lent Feb. 26—Tacos/Salad March 4—BBQ/Chips March 11—Spaghetti March 18– Hot Dogs/+++ March 25—Soup/Sandwich April 1—April Fool’s Surprise!

*Proceeds assist our confirmation class to attend camp at Luther Park in July.*

Lenten Luncheon Menu* Serving after the 11 a.m. Lenten worship service each Wednesday in Lent. Feb 26—Soup March 4—Macaroni Hotdish March 11—NEED VOLUNTEER Marc 18– BBQ’s March 25—NEED VOLUNTEER April 1—Potluck *Proceeds will go towards the Organ Fund*

Gifts and Memorials - February 2020 Ongoing Central Funds: Music Ministry, Education Ministry, Missionary Sponsorship, Central Trust Fund, Riverside Lutheran Cemetery Association, Worship Furnishings Oil for Oil Candles, Organ Fund, Prayer Shawl Ministry, Technology Fund, Cradle Roll

Organ Fund In memory of Kermit Hoversten by Gary and Linda Preston, Rebekah Circle, Shirley Poeschel

Music Fund In memory of Bud Brommer by Joanne M. Erickson In memory of Kermit Hoversten by the Ruth Circle, Roger and Sue Leirmo

Lighting Project In memory of Jessie Fuller by George and Carol Moats In memory of Kermit Hoversten by George and Carol Moats, Randy and Kay Rustad In honor of Ed Mahlum’s 90th Birthday by George and Carol Moats, Fred and Karen Seyforth In memory of Janet Hiemer by Randy and Kay Rustad, Shirley Poeschel In memory of Miller Johnson by Scott and Sandra Herbenson, Marjorie Herbenson

Trust Fund In memory of Kermit Hoversten by Lois Loomans In honor of Ed Mahlum’s 90th Birthday by Lois Loomans

Riverside Cemetery In memory of John Wulff by Chris Drew In memory of Miller Johnson by Gary and Carol Dregney

Operational Fund In memory of Janet Hiemer by John and Sue Iverson, Rick and Sue Christianson, John and Joanne Rohrscheib In memory of Kermit Hoversten by John and Sue Iverson In memory of Susan Scott by Cindy Giese-Samb

Missionary Sponsorship In honor of Pastor Morck’s birthday by the CLCW

CENTRAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 221 West Main Street Mondovi, WI 54755-0009

Return Service Requested

Mail to:

Pastor Rolf G. Morck Cell: 495-7007 Home: 926-1128

Administrative Assistant: Noelle Schmidtknecht

Organist/Accompanist: Joanne Erickson

Music Director: Michelle Alexander

Sunday School Superintendent: Diane Schultz

Custodian: Gary Holmen

Missionaries to Japan: Patrick and Jacquelyn Bencke

OFFICE HOURS

8:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. (Mon-Thurs)

8:00 a.m.– Noon (Friday)

SUMMER OFFICE HOURS

8:00 a.m.—4:00 p.m. (Mon-Thurs. Closed on Friday)

(715)926-3811

E-mail address: centralmondovi@frontiernet.net

revrolf@frontiernet.net

Website: centralmondovi.org

A NON-PROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE

PAID Permit No. 15 Mondovi, WI

Central Lutheran Church

Our Vision Statement:

To be people of God, empowered by the Holy Spirit

growing in Jesus’ love and love for one another.

Our Mission Statement:

As a living body of Christ, we will minister within the

congregation, the community, and the world.

Mondovi Sharing Table THURSDAY, March 5th 4:30-6:00 p.m. Sponsored by: Mondovi Knights Of Columbus Council 5193

**Next Sharing Table will be on THURSDAY, April 2**