Zion's December Newsletter

ZION LUTHERAN CHURCH • BUFFALO, MN DECEMBER 2012

O f f i c e@ Zi on Bu f f a l o . o r g ( 7 63 ) 6 82 - 12 45 w ww. Z i on Bu f f a l o . o r g

Christmas

Worship

Schedule

Advent Devotional Book

Are you looking for a good addition to your advent days; a short read that points you toward the coming of Christ at Christmas? Stop by the Information Desk for your copy of Waiting with a Sure and Certain Hope, the advent devotional book created by Luther Seminary. The booklet is written by Pastor Hub Nelson, retired pastor from Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church, Edina and includes a daily Bible passage and brief reading for the season. A printable PDF or daily email is also available at luthersem.edu/advent.

Jamaica Needs

Three months left before the Mission Jamaica team leaves from Zion for the 2013 mission week. Twenty-one people make up the teams that will do construction and provide medical care in late February. The shipping container in the north Zion parking lot still has room for your medical donations. Items such as wheelchairs, nebulizers, crutches, commodes, sheets and towels are welcomed as donations.

Zambia Update

Walls of Homemade Bricks and Mortar

After only 5 days the walls of the ninth grade classrooms at the School of Hope are going up quickly. All Kids Can Learn is so grateful for all the people who gave or are giving regularly to make it happen. Without a doubt, not only are they building a school with bricks and mortar, but they are building a school with a strong educational, moral, and spiritual foundation.

Thank you to all of the Zion members who have contributed to date for this project. The classrooms will be needed for the new school year which starts in January.

In early November, Kathleen Schwartz wrote about the application process for the new school year on the Villages of Hope blog.

One father came from Wangwa Farms where many of our students come from. He was filled with gratitude and appreciation for our school and what he sees as the results in children who are attending our School of Hope. What God has been doing is “exceedingly, abundantly above all that we could ask or think.”

Zion to Zambia Connection

The Global Mission committee is starting to plan for the next group of Zion members to go over to the Village of Hope. Dave and Sue Wright, Minda Squadroni, and Julie Swaggert are actively seeking interested persons for this unique mission opportunity. Please contact one of them for more information. As yet the date for the trip has not been set. Please prayerfully consider sharing your talents at the Village of Hope.

Let Us Know

Address, Phone & Email Corrections

If you have had any changes to your

address, phone number, marital status,

etc. please contact the office with your

name, phone number and the changes that

need to be made in our database.

If You Are Ill

Hospitals no longer notify churches when

their members are admitted for care. Let

us know so we can support you with

prayer and with presence.

Prayer Requests

Please use a yellow pew card, post on the

Prayer Wall of our online community, or

contact the office with your prayer

requests.

763.682.1245

TableProject.ZionBufffalo.org

[email protected]

Living God’s Call

Engaging people in a process of discipleship which inspires them 2

Give the Gift of Faith

I love December and the holiday season. I love getting together with family. I love the heightened excitement at church. I love the way stores are all decked out with decorations. I love the parties and get togethers. I love getting gifts but more so I love giving. I really do. I love giving gifts, (at least when I know the one receiving the gift likes it). One of the things I really love about Christmas is watching little kids open the gifts. I love their excitement.

This past weekend my two college age children were at home. Part of our conversation was about family Christmas plans - Sara’s family, my family and our family’s plans. Now, I am thinking about the gifts I will give to them this Christmas.

The stages pass so quickly. Only yesterday they were toddlers, dragging blankets and pulling toys behind them. Gifts were easier then. When they were elementary school students venturing out, starting to experience the big world and discovering things on their own, Christmas gifts were still relatively easy. All along the way, I have found myself faced with decisions about what kinds of values certain gifts reinforce and what kind of influence certain things will have on my two children. Today they are in college and I find myself wondering what kinds of gifts will they prefer now (besides cash!).

You know, there is a gift that endures, a gift that transcends all the stages of life. It is the gift of knowing Christ Jesus. As one of my clergy colleagues wrote, “Beyond the satisfaction that comes from watching them grow in physical stature and sporting prowess; beyond their growing ability to add numbers and combine verbs and nouns, there is something far more fascinating to watch. That something is the step by step, day by day building of a living relationship between our children and Jesus Christ.”

When we give them the gift of faith, faith in Jesus Christ, we have shown them the one who will love them not only today but long after we are gone. When we give the gift of faith we give them one whom will help them view life as more than possessions, popularity, or power. By encouraging them to walk through life with Christ, we give them one who will help them walk down the path that brings real peace and true satisfaction. When we give the gift of faith, we can rest assured that when they face the struggles and difficulties of life (and they will) we will be able to hear them speak their own words of faith and confidence in God’s love for them. When we give the gift of faith we can rest assured that when they fail (and they will) they will be able to find strength from God to try again; that when they sin (and they will) they will find forgiveness and grace to start over.

So read the Christmas lists, be inspired by the special worship services, enjoy the shopping, delight in the decorations, choose the presents, enjoy the parties, love the people and give the gift of faith!

to trust in Christ, grow in faith, and serve God’s world. 3

Toys for Tots

The local Toys for Tots campaign,

sponsored by Buffalo Rotary, is getting

ready to begin collecting toys for children

in the Buffalo area.

Unwrapped toys can be placed in the

collection bin at Zion until December 14.

Christmas Baskets

The Christmas basket project is in

partnership with the Buffalo Food Shelf,

local social workers, and many local

churches.

Many volunteer opportunities are

available during the distribution at Zion

on Tuesday, December 18 from 4-7pm

including greeting our guests, serving a

light meal, assisting at the clothing

giveaway, handing out the food baskets,

and carrying the baskets out to cars. Sign

up at the Information Desk.

Those in the Buffalo area (55313 home

address) wishing to receive a basket

should contact the Buffalo Food Shelf or

a local social worker.

Adopt A Family

The Adopt A Family program is sponsored

by Buffalo Rotary and Love INC-Big

Woods. The program provides practical

Christmas gifts such as clothing and

personal items for children (who will also

be eligible to receive toys from the Toys

for Tots program). Recipients will fill out

a wish list and are matched up with a

family, business, or congregation wishing

to adopt.

Adopting families and congregations

receive a wish list from a family

indicating a child’s age and clothing sizes.

(Advent Projects continued on page 17)

Baptisms

October 14

Austin James Caswell

October 28

Acacia Tagg

Katherine Kleist

Jonathan Hasher

Weddings

October 6

Kayla Mandler & Joseph Hawke at Zion

October 13

Rita DeLude & Bruce Jones at Zion

October 20

Tina Hausladen & Korey Larsen at Zion

Funerals

October 2

Joanne Machula

October 10

Milan Zumach

October 25

Rasman Griffith

Active Military

Please Pray For

Ben Pecarina

Stationed in Georgia

Will Dobbins

Deployed on the USS Peleliu

Christopher Brophy

Stationed at Ft Riley, KS

Greg Bremseth

Stationed at Ft Bliss, TX

Deanna Strommen

Stationed in Washington, DC

Christopher Schmidt

Deployed to the Persian Gulf

Cody Bauman

Stationed at Fort Bragg, NC

Trey Wilson

Stationed at Camp Pendleton, CA

Fred Pierce

Stationed in Miramar, CA

Doug Pecarina

Army National Guard

Alex Euerle

Deployed to Afghanistan

Senior Appreciation Dinner

Thursday, December 20

Zion staff will host a Christmas Dinner for Zionaires, volunteers, and homebound members on Thursday, December 20. There will be a worship service with communion at 11am, followed by dinner and entertainment provided by the church staff. The staff appreciates the many hours of work so many of you give to Zion once your "day job" has finished and retirement has come. Please make your reservation by December 17 by calling the church office at 763.682.1245. Rides are available.

Parent Days Out

Sunday, December 2, 1-5 pm

Saturday, December 8, 9am-1pm

Parents, enjoy some time to prepare for the Christmas holidays while your children are experiencing some fun and faith-filled activities!

Zion's Mission Jamaica Committee is hosting these childcare events as a fundraiser for the February 2013 mission trip.

Children birth to 6th grade can enjoy an art activity, snacks, devotions, play time and a special movie at Zion. Please bring winter outdoor clothes for your child as some of the fun activities may be outside, weather permitting.

Care will be provided by Zion volunteers and supervised by qualified daycare providers.

Cost is $10 per child up to $25 per family.

Register online at ZionBuffalo.org/PNO, at the Information Desk, or by contacting the church office for a registration form. If you have a child with special circumstances, pre registration is required to ensure appropriate staff are available.

Thank you for your support to our Zion missionaries going to Jamaica.

Connecting With Care

Creating a community where people are connected 4

What Are We Pinning?

Bible Verses, Lutheran “Stuff”

Harvest of Hands Craft Ideas

People You Will Meet at Zion

Pinterest.com/ZionBuffalo

January Women's Retreat

Women, after the busy weeks of holiday planning and celebrations, plan to take a day to relax and recharge! The Warm Your Heart, Warm Your Soul retreat is planned to be a wonderful day of guest speakers and "wellness wandering" on January 19, from 9am-2:30pm.

Guest presenters will include Carol Nusbaum (time management and stress relievers), Mary Jane Miller (home economist, chef, organic gardener, cooking teacher, and "maven of mmm"), and Dr. Mary Wilkens (Twin Cities family practice physician with a heart for Christian ministry).

"Wellness Wanderings" options include time to wander through the building on a prayer walk, wander into a learning session provided by Allina Health on topics like behavioral changes and motivation or sustaining exercise, a session on yoga or flower arranging. Wander to tables in the Fellowship Hall that will give you great ideas about new healthful foods, traveling for wellness, staying in touch or stop by to get a blood pressure check or neck massage.

Cost for the day will be $15/person. Continental breakfast at 8:30 included. Child care can be provided upon request.

Register at the information desk on Sundays, at ZionBuffalo.org/women, by calling the church office, or emailing [email protected].

Give a holiday gift of time with a gift certificate for retreat registration.

1245 ext.307.

Fair Trade Coffee

On the second Sunday of each month the mission committee offers fair trade coffee for sale in the narthex. This is not so much a fund raiser as a way to market crops at a fair price for small farmers around the world. Coffee, tea and cocoa make great holiday gifts and will be available December 9.

Wednesday Suppers

There’s a tasty meal waiting for you

every Wednesday from 5:00-6:15 in the

Fellowship Hall for a suggested

donation of $4 per plate/$15/family.

The best deal in town!

Meals will be served each week until the

end of the school year excluding school

breaks.

December 5: Soup/Chili/

Hotdog

December 12: Baked

Potatoes

December 19: Subs

December 26: No Meal

(Christmas Break)

The Tana French Series

The Zion Book Club will not meet in

December. Their selection for Monday,

January 14, is the Tana French Series

(In the Woods, The Likeness, Faithful

Place, and the most recent, Broken

Harbor).

The Zion Book Club is a low pressure

book club. Simply come for discussion

with no preparation; participants are

not obligated to agree on (or even

finish) the books. Come when you have

interest and time, so that the book club

will enrich your life and not become

another stress or obligation.

Upcoming Book Club selections

include Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn on

February 11, Laguna by Barbara

Kingsolver on March XX, and The

Cellist of Sarajevo by Steven Galloway

on April XX.

in relationships and supported in need. 5

mailto:[email protected]

Wind Ensemble

The Zion Wind Ensemble is back for the

third time... just in time for the

Christmas holiday weekend. Kjes (Lee

Kjesbo) will direct a wind ensemble of

senior high, alumni, and adults on

December 23 for Zion's 10:30 worship.

Rehearsals are Wednesday, December

19 at 5:30pm, and Saturday, December

22 at 9am (come to at least one

rehearsal; two is even better). Warm up

is at 9:30 am on December 23 to

prepare for 10:30 worship.

Contact Sherilyn Burgdorf or Lee

Kjesbo to sign up. Music is available in

advance on request.

Advent Readers

Advent is a time for counting down the

weeks and days until Jesus' coming. You

can help the entire worshiping

community at Zion with that time

keeping. Each Sunday worship on

December 2, 9, 16, and 23 will include

an advent reading and the lighting of

the candles on the advent wreath. If you

or your family would be interested in

being worship leaders for reading and

candle lighting on any of those weeks,

contact Sherilyn at 763.682.1245 ext.

307 or [email protected].

Choose the worship service that best fits

your family: 8:30, 9:45 or 10:30. The

readings are prepared in advance so

that you can practice at home.

Baptism Class

Anyone wishing to schedule a baptism is

asked to attend a class prior to the date

of the baptism. Expectant parents, as

well as those who already are parents,

may attend the class. Scheduling of

baptisms will take place at the class.

The next classes are Sunday, December

9, and Sunday, February 10 at noon.

Register at ZionBuffalo.org/Baptism or

by calling the office.

Annual Meeting

The Annual Congregational Meeting of Zion Lutheran Church will be held in Trinity Hall on Sunday, December 2, following the 10:30 service (at approximately 11:30 am). All voting members are requested to attend. A voting member is defined as confirmed, communing, and contributing.

An agenda and candidate information can be picked up at the Information Desk or downloaded from ZionBuffalo.org/AM.

Leading Zion’s Sound Team

Bob and Diane Strommen will have been married for 43 years this December. Their grown children are Jon in Ohio, Victoria in Le Suer, MN, Christina in Maple Lake, and Timothy in Buffalo.

Bob has worked for MnDOT at the Minnesota Road Research Project, also known as MnROAD, for 16 years. His official title is “Traffic Management System Integrator, Senior” but he prefers to call himself a Research Systems Integrator, since he doesn’t actually do anything with traffic management. What he does do is work with computer data acquisition systems and sensors.

When Bob & Diane first moved to Buffalo in 1997 they visited Zion and Bob was drawn to the contemporary and upbeat music of Jubilee.

Bob had been “playing music and mixing sound in some form for about 40 years,” so a logical place for him to get involved in ministry at Zion was with worship music. At the time, Pete Hauer was the sole sound technician at Zion. It was through Pete that Bob became drummer for Jubilee, and also occasionally served as Pete’s substitute on the sound board.

The congregation is getting accustomed to good sound in worship, and the goal of the sound technicians is to be largely invisible. As Lyle Jans puts it, “As long as we’re not getting complaints, we’re happy.” Some congregation members, however, notice and appreciate the efforts of the team. Last year high school student Emily Bengtson chose Zion’s sound technicians as the subject for her CIS Writing ethnography.

Zion’s large sanctuary requires the use of an impressive and complicated sound system. Though it is easy to forget, someone in the back of the sanctuary is always

(Leading Zion’s Sound Team continued on page 14)

Creating Sunday morning experiences at Zion that invite, 6

Celebrating on Sundays

Choirboys Concert at Zion

Mark your calendars now and invite friends and neighbors for a grand afternoon of Christmas music presented by the Land of Lakes Choirboys.

The concert will be at Zion on Sunday, December 16 at 4pm in the sanctuary.

This concert will feature the Prep Choir, Training Choir, Voyager Choir, Concert Choir, and Men's Chorus, accompanied by the Festival Community Orchestra.

Because of a generous donation to Zion, there is no ticket cost for the concert. A freewill offering will be taken to cover travel costs for the choir. A reception hosted by Zion Women's Ministry will follow the concert.

Three Zion members are part of these choirs: Sam Anderson sings with the Training Choir, and Josh and Aaron Otten are part of the Concert Choir.

Christmas Treats Bake Sale

When you come to Zion on Sunday, December 16, you'll be greeted by many of your favorite holiday cookies, sweets and treats.

The Women's Ministry team is sponsoring a bake sale throughout the morning that day, beginning at 9:30am. You'll find your favorite cookies and Scandinavian treats for purchase: snickerdoodles, ginger cookies, Russian teacakes, peanut butter blossoms, almond glazed cookies, sugar cookies, lefse, rosettes, krumkake, and homemade doughnuts. There will be additional variety of Christmas treats, specialty breads, and even gluten free treats. A special bonus will be fresh aebleskiver by Linda Engwall for an on-the-spot treat.

Proceeds from the bake sale will help fund the January 2013 women’s retreat and tablecloths

for use at Zion events. Ten percent of donations will be given to the Women of

the ELCA for their Raising Up Healthy Women and Girls health initiative.

Are you a baker yourself? Already looking through your special recipes?

Making choices of holiday favorites?

If you are interested in providing Christmas treats and sweets for the bake

sale and/or reception, contact Judy Weis

(Bake sale continued on page 15)

Worship Schedule

Sunday, December 2

First Sunday of Advent

Luke 21:25-36

Pastor Ted Preaching

Sunday, December 9

Second Sunday of Advent

Luke 3:1-6

Sunday School Christmas Program:

The Grinch who Found Christmas

Sunday, December 16

Third Sunday of Advent

Luke 3:7-18

Carols Choirs & Celebration

Sunday, December 23

Fourth Sunday of Advent

A Family Christmas

Luke 1:39-45

Pastor Luke Preaching

Monday, December 24

Christmas Eve

The 3pm and 5pm services will include

a special time for the children to

come forward to see Jesus’ birthday

cake up close and hear a special

message. Nursery care provided at

both services.

The 11pm Candlelight service will

include the Zion Christmas Choir.

Luke 2:1-14

Pastor Ted Preaching

Tuesday, December 25

Christmas Day

One Worship service at 10am

Luke 2:1-20

John 1:1-14

Pastor Luke Preaching

Sunday, December 30

First Sunday of Christmas

Luke 2:41-52

Senior High Youth Preaching

welcome, engage and inspire people to live for Christ. 7

October 2012 Financial Report

General Services Fund

Income Oct 2012 YTD 2012 Oct 2011 YTD 2011 General Offering $53,891 $565,224 $63,956 $560,668

Rent and Sunday School 2,921 20,451 4,462 20,083

WedNite Supper Income 1,293 6,256 1,220 6,917

Missions and Hunger 711 11,882 1,668 11,515

Other Designations 1,320 15,869 1,876 12,398

Total Income $60,136 $619,682 $73,182 $611,581

Expenses Synod Benevolence $1,000 $10,000 $1,000 $10,000

Other General Services 61,307 589,071 61,500 584,567

Total Expenses $62,307 $599,071 $62,500 $594,567

Checkbook balance as of 10-31-2012: -$4,340

A Promising Tomorrow/Building Fund

Income Oct 2012 YTD 2012 Oct 2011 YTD 2011 Offerings and Interest $16,940 $151,886 $16,910 $161,323

Other Receipts 0 0 0 0

Total Income $16,940 $151,886 $16,910 $161,323

Expenses Building Mortgage $15,869 $158,690 $15,869 $151,247

Roof/Parking Lot Loan 0 0 0 3,653

Kairos Consulting 0 6,000 1,000 20,000

Interest Expense on LOC 0 0 0 0

Bank Service Charge 15 30 0 30

Total Expenses $15,884 $164,720 $16,869 $174,931

Checkbook balance as of 10-31-2012: $14,632

Thank you for your continued support of God’s work at Zion Lutheran Church.

Memorial Gifts Received

Gift to the Zion Memorial Fund in

memory of Arlyn Nelson from Bruce &

Janice Harem.

Gift to the Senior Choir in memory of

Arlyn Nelson from Cliff & Donna

Stedje.

Gifts to the Zion Memorial Fund in

memory of Milan Zumach from Andrew

& Sherilyn Burgdorf, and Bob & Bonnie

Koring.

Gifts to the Zion Foundation in memory

of Milan Zumach from Darrell

Anderson, Duane & Carol Olson, Mark

& Louise Minkler, Howard Burgdorf,

Jane Walberg and John Halvorson.

Gifts to the Wednesday Night Supper

Program in memory of Elroy Monson

from June Monson, Joy Van, and Glenn

Van Den Heuvel.

Gift to the Zion Memorial Fund in

memory of Rasman Griffith from Phillip

& Barbara Hegfors.

Gift to the Zion Foundation in memory

of Arlene Dickson from Mark & Louise

Minker.


of Joe Lantto, Arlyn Nelson, and Jim

Armstrong, Jr. from Sheridan Skeen

Belated acknowledgement for the

following gifts earlier in the year:

Gift to the Zion Foundation in honor of

the Munson and Friedrichsen families

from Andrew & Sherilyn Burgdorf.

Gift to the Zion Foundation in honor of

her first dollars earned for pastoral

purposes from Jason & Amy Chalupnik.


of Jan Halvorson from John Halvorson.


of Chris Swaggert, Vern Wahlstrom,

Mathew Nelson and Myron Skeen from

Sheridan Skeen.

ZionBuffalo.org/Give 8

Finance & Stewardship

2012 Zion Mission

Contributions Top $30,000

All contributions to Zion’s mission

activities are outside our regular church

budget. As of October 31 the mission

committee has received $32,963 to help

Redeemer Lutheran, AKCLI in Zambia,

and Fair Trade Coffee sales. Eight

educators volunteered time and money for

a mission trip to Zambia. Sixteen

individuals donated tools, supplies and

each contributed an additional $2,055 to

participate in Mission Jamaica. This

coming year 22 people are planning to go

to Jamaica; an “All Ages Mission Trip” is

scheduled for Duluth; and AKCLI

welcomes more volunteers. Zion is

committed to outreach as we expand

missions to build and share our faith.

A Time to Give

A miser must have a wretched time at

Christmas, for Christmas is preeminently

a time of generosity. God set the example

when he gave his own Son; the wise men

followed it when they gave their gold to

the Christ child; and in proportion to our

share of the Christmas spirit, we are

walking in their footsteps.

—John T. Faris

L.S.S. Counseling

Available at Zion once a week, every

Thursday. Evening appointments can also

be scheduled. Provider for many

insurances with sliding scale. Call Miho

Adkins at 1.320.251.7700

9

Christmas and Year-End Giving

Did you know that 40% of all charitable gifts given every year are given in November and December? There are some reasons for this.

For many people, one of their Christmas traditions includes financial gifts to organizations and institutions they appreciate. It is another way of celebrating the birth of the newborn Savior, Jesus Christ.

For some, this important Season of Giving is an opportunity to "make up" and/or "catch up" on the giving they intended to do during the year.

For others, part of their motivation for end of the year giving is for tax purposes. Gifts made on or before December 31 qualify as a charitable tax deduction in that year.

Zion is a great place for special Christmas and end of the year giving.

Gifts from Assets vs Gifts from Income

Our congregation is ready to receive gifts other than cash donations. It is estimated that 90% of all wealth is held in "assets” and only 10% of all wealth is "income."

Our congregation can receive gifts of appreciated assets; donors can deduct the full market value at the time of the gift, not just the original investment cost. Pastor Ted has even heard of one Lutheran congregation that received a buffalo as a donation.

Examples of assets that can be given to Zion as charitable gifts at Christmas and Year End or anytime are:

Stock: publicly traded stock that is listed on the NY Stock Exchange, American Stock Exchange or Over the Counter (NASDAQ) Exchange-perhaps the best type of gift because it is valued each and every day.

Shares in Mutual Funds: same approach as stock.

Private Stock: stock that is closely held in private companies by partners or family members.

Farmland and Real Estate: land that has appreciated in value and has no encumbrances (mortgages or liens).

Collectibles: artwork, coin and stamp collections.

Commodities: grain, cotton, livestock, etc.

Typically, when we think of giving to Zion, we think of writing a check or giving cash. But there are other ways to give that may be very beneficial to both Zion and to you, the giver. If you would like to talk about this option, please contact either Pastor Ted or Pastor Luke and they would be glad to help you, or talk with your financial advisor about your wishes.

Please consider Zion and the great ministries happening here as a place for your Christmas and end of the year giving.

Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says the Lord Almighty, “and see if I

will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it.

~ Malichi 3:10

Thursday December 6

8:00am Men Seeking Wisdom Bible

Study

8:00am Women's Ministry baking day

9:00am Lutheran Social Services

4:00pm Christmas Program Rehearsal

8:00pm First Sunday Rehearsal

Friday December 7

6:00am Friday Breakfast Crew

Saturday December 8

9:00am Parents Day Out - Mission

Jamaica Fundraiser

Sunday December 9

Second Sunday of Advent

7:00am Cinnamon Rolls

8:30am Traditional Worship Service

with Sunday School Christmas

Program

8:30am Sunday School

9:30am Coffee Fellowship

9:45am Family Express Worship

10:30am Contemporary Worship Service

with Sunday School Christmas

Program



12:00pm Baptism Class

Monday December 10

8:00am Men's Bible Study

9:00am Women's Ministry Planning

4:00pm Adopt A Family Gift Collection

7:00pm Zion Book Club

Tuesday December 11

9:00am Kitchen Cleaning

9:30am Staff Meeting

4:00pm Adopt A Family Gift Collection

6:30pm Outreach & Evangelism

Committee

7:00pm Jubilee Rehearsal

7:00pm Global Missions Committee

Wednesday December 12

2:45pm Class Ring

3:45pm Ring Forth

3:45pm SONshine Choir

3:45pm Kids’ Place

4:45pm Joy Choir

5:00pm Wednesday Night Supper

5:15pm Youth Choir

6:00pm Confirmation

6:30pm Joyful Ringers

7:00pm Property Committee Meeting

7:00pm Senior Choir

7:30pm Graceland Senior High Youth

Group

Thursday December 13

8:00am Men Seeking Wisdom Bible Study


4:00pm Adopt A Family Gift

Distribution

6:00pm Finance Committee Meeting


Friday December 14

4:00pm Adopt A Family Gift

Distribution

Saturday December 15

9:00am Women's Ministry Bake Sale

Set up

Sunday December 16

Third Sunday of Advent

Holy Communion at 8:30 and 10:30

8:00am Christmas Bake Sale

8:30am Carols, Choirs and Celebration

Worship Service




10:30am Carols, Choirs and Celebration

Worship Service



11:30am TIM Team

4:00pm Land Of Lakes Choirboys

Concert

ZionBuffalo.org/Calendar 10

Saturday December 1

9:00am Prayer Sister Tea

Sunday December 2

First Sunday of Advent

Holy Communion at 8:30, 9:45, & 10:30








11:30am Annual Meeting

1:00pm Parent's Day Out - Mission

Jamaica Fundraiser

Monday December 3




7:00pm Mission Jamaica team meeting

8:00pm Mission Jamaica board meeting

Tuesday December 4






7:00am Men's 50+ Bible Study

2:45pm Class Ring

3:30pm Ring Forth, Joy Choir,

SONshine Choir, Kids' Place to

Parkview

4:00pm Christmas Program Practice


5:15pm Youth Choir

6:00pm Confirmation

6:30pm Joyful Ringers

7:00pm Senior Choir


Group

Advent & Christmas 2012

Monday December 17


Tuesday December 18


9:30am Naomi Circle

5:30pm Stewardship Meeting


7:00pm Vision Team Meeting


7:00am Men's 50+ Bible Study

9:00am Newsletter Assembly

2:45pm Class Ring

3:45pm Ring Forth

3:45pm SONshine Choir

3:45pm Kids’ Place


5:15pm Youth Choir

5:30pm Zion Wind Ensemble rehearsal

6:00pm Worship and Music Committee

Meeting

6:00pm Confirmation

7:00pm Alumni/Christmas Bells

7:00pm Senior Choir


Group

7:30pm Church Council Meeting


8:00am Men Seeking Wisdom Bible

Study


11:00am Worship Service

12:00pm Senior Appreciation Dinner

6:30pm Youth Board Meeting

7:00pm Rebecca Circle


Friday December 21

7:00pm Friday Night Fun Night


9:00am Zion Wind Ensemble rehearsal

11

Christmas Worship

December 23 Family Worship

If you're traveling for Christmas Eve/Christmas Day you can still celebrate Christmas with your Zion family and

lots of music on Sunday morning, December 23.

Worship at 8:30, 9:45, and 10:30

Children's message at all three services led by Pastor Ted

Sermon given by Pastor Luke

Senior Choir and Alumni Christmas Bells at 8:30

Zion Wind Ensemble led by Lee Kjesbo at 10:30

Christmas carol sing-a-long at all services

Christmas Smorgasbord of

Treats

Start Christmas off with fellowship with friends in Fellowship Hall from 9:30-10:30 on December 23. Bring a

plate of cookies or Christmas specialties to share. Breads, cheeses, and fruit are also suggestions… even fruitcake! Coffee and cider provided.

Christmas Eve

The 3pm and 5pm services will include a special time for the children to come forward to see Jesus’ birthday cake up

close and hear a special message. Nursery care provided at both services.

The 11pm Candlelight service will include the Zion Christmas Choir.

Christmas Day

One Worship service at 10am

Sunday December 23

Fourth Sunday of Advent

Sanctuary Sunday

7:00am Cinnamon Rolls


9:30am Zion Wind Ensemble warm up

9:30am Christmas Smorgasbord of Treats




Monday December 24

Zion Office Closes at Noon


3:00pm Christmas Eve Worship Service


10:30pm Christmas Eve Choir Warm Up


Tuesday December 25

Christmas Day

10:00am Christmas Day Worship Service


9:30am Devotions at Lake Ridge

10:30am Devotions at Park View

7:00pm Senior Choir


8:00am Men Seeking Wisdom Bible Study



Friday December 28


Sunday December 30

Youth Sunday






Monday December 31

Year-End Offering by 10am


12:00pm Office Closed at Noon

Friday Night Fun Night

Are you in 6th-8th grade? Are you looking for something to do on a Friday night?

Then come out to Zion on December 21, from 7-9pm, for Friday Night Fun Night!

FNFN will be a Christmas Party that will have group games, a service project, cocoa and cookies!

Bring a friend and wear your ugly Christmas sweater for a great night of free fun!

Snowtubing

Middle School and Senior High students are invited to go snowtubing at Elm Creek Park Reserve in Maple Grove on Friday, January 18.

Students need to be at Zion by 5:30pm with proper winter gear (hats, gloves, snow pants, etc. - if students are not properly dressed, they will not be able to go). The buses will leave Zion at 6pm and return by 10pm. The cost is only $20 per student, plus money for concessions, if they want.

More information, sign up, and the required waiver can be found at ZionBuffalo.org/Youth. Students need to be registered and paid by Sunday, January 6.

Bible Camp at Camp Wapo

[this article has been updated since the printed version was published]

Zion is again teaming up with Lake Wapogasset Bible Camp in Amery, WI this summer to offer a superb summer camping experience!

Bible Camp is a place where fun and faith collide. Campers encounter God’s word, make friends and create memories to last a lifetime.

Youth Camp, which is open to current 4th-8th graders, is from Sunday, July 7, to Friday, July 12. The week is packed with a variety of activities that are meant to impact kids for eternity. Each day includes Bible study, chapel, cabin activities, free time, field games and campfire.

TIM Team is a leadership development opportunity for current 9th-12th graders, who commit to one year of service as leaders in their home church, working primarily with younger youth. TIM Teamers will stay at Ox Lake, as well as experiencing the Low / High Ropes Challenge Course. During the week, much of each day is spent at Wapo, participating as leaders with the younger youth from Zion. TIM Team is from Saturday, July 6, to Friday July 12.

In the past, thanks to a generous gift from the Zion Foundation, the cost has been reduced to $295/camper. Final cost for this year will be available in January.

Registrations and a $100 deposit/student must be in by February 17 to secure your student’s spot at camp. There is financial assistance available to those who are in need. Do not let finances be a reason that you do not send your student to camp!

Director of Youth Ministries

Myron Crawford

763-682-1245 ext. 308

[email protected]

Engage. Grow. Proclaim.

Zion Youth Ministries exists to

engage youth, help them grow

and proclaim faith in Christ.

Friday Breakfast Crew

Senior High Students - Come out to

Perkins on Friday, December 7 at 6am

for a chance to check-in with everyone.

Make sure to bring money for food and

a tip for our great servers!

Youth Board

There is a Youth Board meeting on

Thursday, December 20, at 6:30pm.

TIM Team

TIM Team (Teens in Mission) will meet

on Sunday, December 16, at 11:30 in

the Café Corner.

Confirmation/Graceland

There will be NO Confirmation or

Graceland on Wednesdays, December

26 or January 2 (due to winter break).

Be safe and have fun!

Everything Else

Check the website for Graceland and

Confirmation schedules:

ZionBuffalo.org/youth

1 Timothy 4:12

Don’t let anyone look down on

you because you are young, but set

an example for the believers in speech,

in life, in love, in faith and in purity.

Youth Ministry

ZionBuffalo.org/Youth 12

Sunday School Calendar

December 2

Pre-K Jesus Came for Me

1st-3rd Advent

4th Advent

5th-6th Grapple

December 9

Christmas Program at 8:30 & 10:30

Pre-K Jesus Came for Me / Sing in Worship

1st-3rd Advent / Sing in Worship

4th Advent

5th-6th Advent / Traditional

December 16

Pre-K Jesus Came for Me

1st-3rd Advent

4th Advent

5th-6th Grapple

December 23 & December 30

Sanctuary Sunday

Christmas Program

The Sunday School Christmas Program

will be presented in worship on Sunday,

December 9. All Sunday School

students will be singing in worship with

their Sunday school class. Songs and

lyrics will be posted for students to

practice at home, please watch your

email for the links.

December rehearsals are December 3,

4, 5, and 6 from 4-5:30pm with a

parent performance on December 6 at

5pm. Rehearsals may be added on

December 7 or 8 if needed.

Kids’ Place Reminders

Kids’ Place and choirs will have a field

trip to Park View Care Center on

Wednesday, December 5. Details will be

sent by email.

Kids’ Place will not meet on

Wednesday, December 26.

CoDirectors of Christian Education

Holly Husom

763-682-1245 x308

[email protected]

Kirsten Kelly

763-682-1245 x331

[email protected]

ZionBuffalo.org/Children 13

Anticipating Christmas

Adapted from the Fall 2011 issue of the Thrivent magazine by Karen Worner

Advent, which lasts four weeks, offers parents a chance to open their children’s minds about faith, the holiday season, and share family traditions.

Here are some suggestions on how you can make Advent a more focused part of your holiday preparations.

1. Light an Advent Wreath

at Home

Advent is all about the number four, which is a number even little children can understand. You can purchase a wreath or make your own with pine garland. Just assemble a collection of four candles (or battery-operated tea lights as a safe substitute for candles if a family has young children) that family members can light each Sunday with a special prayer. (“We Light the Candles” by Catherine Brandt, has family-friendly Advent devotions)

2. Buy or Make an Advent Calendar

Many stores sell such calendars, which reveal a small picture or a chocolate candy daily. Crafty families could make their own. You can also add Bible verses or readings for each day.

3. Encourage Good Deeds in Jesus’ Name

Cut small strips of paper and ask family members to write down one “kind” thing they have seen or done that day. Then have them put the pieces of paper (as “hay”) in the manger. By Christmas, baby Jesus should have a manger full of hay and lots of examples of kindness to share.

4. Point out the Symbols of the Season

When you see an Advent or Christmas Wreath, note how it’s a circle and how that symbolizes God’s never ending love. As you bake cookies, use a star shaped cutter to illustrate the story of the Christmas Star. If you use an angel on your tree, talk about how the angel Gabriel visited Mary-perhaps even read that story from the Bible to your children.

If your family is already stretched during the crazy-busy holiday season, it’s ok to keep Advent plans simple- the most important thing is that we are spending time as a family to celebrate Jesus’ birthday.

To learn more about Thrivent Financial and its products, please call Mark Worner at 682.6011.

Children’s Ministry

Harvest of Hands

Harvest of Hands planning committee

would like to thank the many people who

helped with the 34th Annual Festival.

Some of these people are:

Those who helped create crafts and

organized all year long.

Those who made crafts and baked

goods at home.

Those who helped set up the event.

Those who helped clean up the event.

Those who organized and helped with

the brunch.

Those who donated food and supplies.

Those who donated funds to help

purchase supplies.

Those who donated silent auction and

white elephant items.

Those who attended and shopped at

the event.

The Zion staff.

Thank you to all who have supported us

throughout the year. We appreciate all

your help and dedication! We have so

many talented people on our team. We

are so blessed for your support and

dedication to our mission of hunger.

Harvest of Hands craft groups will not

meet in December.

The 35th Annual Harvest of Hands

Festival will be held on November 2,

2013.

Have a very Merry Christmas, from the

Harvest of Hands planning committee.

14

there, scrambling to control the ever-changing sound system. The music and messages shared within the church are incredibly important to the spiritual well-being of the congregation. The church wants the music and messages to be presented in an effective, contemporary fashion.

~ Emily Bengtson

Around 2008 Pete decided that the sound technician position had become too time consuming and stepped down. Bob was the obvious choice to fill the void as he was the only one in the congregation who understood how to run the sound board.

In the spring of 2010, the sound system for Zion’s sanctuary was updated. The new system was a “solution to echo and reverberation that we hear, and that muddies up the sound in the room.” Members of the congregation, especially those with hearing impairment, were struggling to understand parts of Sunday morning services. With the arrival of a new system, Bob realized it was a perfect time to begin recruiting other members to work with the sound system. Together, they would all learn how to run the sound board and deal with the latest complications and frustrations of new technology.

~Emily Bengtson

Even though Pete had warned Bob that coordinating the sound system would be a time consuming position, Bob was still surprised by the amount of time it really took.

I could very easily spend 20 hours a week maintaining or improving the system. When I first took over the sound in the Sanctuary was very difficult to understand. Pete and Dave Nordschow had made an attempt to improve the system and it was better, but not where we needed to be. I took upon myself to contact an audio consultant to have the sanctuary analyzed. He made some recommendations and the system we have now is the result. This system is much easier to understand and is much easier to operate. There are still some things that need improving but at least the congregation can understand the message.

~ Bob Strommen

The current sound team includes Bob, Lyle Jans, Glen Johnson, and Mike Otten. They serve not only on Sundays, but at rehearsals, weddings, funerals, and special events.

(Leading Zion’s Sound Team continued from page 6)

(Leading Zion’s Sound Team continued on page 17)

Lutefisk Dinner Another

Success

The annual Lutefisk dinner was held on

Friday, October 26. Almost 400 people

were served by many volunteers. The

committee would like to thank all those

who helped to make this a success. This

includes all of the staff as well as the

volunteers. The committee is also pleased

each year to be able to donate all of the

proceeds to a variety of church projects

and community needs.

Each year, the extra lefse and cranberries

are later sold by Love INC. The extra

lingonberries and Herring are sold at

Harvest of Hands. Some funds have

already been used to replace silverware in

the kitchen and help replace tables in the

church. The committee met in late

November to finalize where the

remaining proceeds will be dispersed.

Some funds are expected to be used to

support the Sunday School and Youth

programs. Other organizations helped in

the past include the Buffalo Food Shelf,

Food for Friends, Blue Star Mothers,

Timber Bay and Read to Feed the Mind.

Plans are already underway for next

year's dinner on Friday, October 25.

Mark your calendars!

Thanks to:

Meals on Wheels drivers for the

month of November

The Naomi and Rebecca Circles and

other volunteer visitors who delivered

Thanksgiving gifts to Zion members

and friends who are in care centers,

apartments, or homebound during the

cold winter months

Thank you to all who decorated Zion

from top to bottom for the Christmas

season including the Fellowship Hall,

library, narthex, and sanctuary

Those that helped with the Love INC

Gala.

15

Women are Looking Ahead to Spring

There is an opportunity for women as we look forward to 2013. It is a goal of the women’s ministry team to have a Spring Brunch planning committee in place by January. Please consider signing on to help plan and execute this exciting event. It is a truly rewarding experience. It comes with strong staff and lay leadership, new friends and meaningful, creative outlets. Committee meeting times and places can be flexible to accommodate those who are employed or have other commitments. Contact Sherilyn at 763.682.1245 or [email protected] or stop by the information desk on Sunday mornings to let us know you are interested in assisting with this fabulous spring brunch.

At 9am on the second Monday of each month, a women’s ministry planning session is held at the Zion church office meeting room. The primary focus the group is to provide events, Bible studies and programs that are faith based and meet the expressed wishes of a wide range of women. New participants are always welcome and invited to attend the meetings. You are invited to attend this women’s ministry monthly meeting. Thank you in advance for your time, support and consideration.

(682.7014), Marian Hille (952.913.6684), Sherilyn Burgdorf ([email protected]) or sign up at the Information Desk.

Helpful tips:

Please bring items to Zion by Friday, December 14.

Treats can be plated in 6 or 12 per plate or brought to Zion in larger quantities for packaging in assortments. Please include the name of the cookies/treats.

No pricing needed! That will be covered at Zion.

Consider making cookies, Scandinavian treats, Christmas favorites, breads, or any other treats that you share at Christmas time.

(Bake sale continued from page 7)

Photos from Harvest of Hands by Sabrina Mishler & Roxie Otten

Our Mission... Zion seeks to

Share Christ’s Word,

Strengthen our Faith, and

Serve those in need.

Our Vision… Helping people experience the joy of

life in Christ by:

1. Celebrating on Sundays:

Creating Sunday morning experiences that invite, welcome, engage and inspire people to live for Christ.

2. Living God’s Call:

Engaging people in a process of discipleship which inspires them to

trust in Christ, grow in faith, and serve God’s world.

3. Connecting with Care:

Creating a community where people are connected in relationships and

supported in need.

16

Keep Dancing

Written by Pastor Kelly Chatman for the November newsletter of our partner congregation, Redeemer Lutheran Church.

A Tanzanian preacher was preaching his first sermon in a local church. When time came for the offering, the people danced their offerings forward. They danced and sang praises to God as they brought their offerings to the altar. It was a beautiful moment. What do you think? Should we get our ushers to do that at Redeemer?

Returning to the story: after the service, the preacher asked one of the Tanzanian worshippers, “Why do you dance and sing when you bring your offering forward on Sunday morning.?” Back came the answer: “How could we not dance? We are so grateful to God for what he has done for sending Jesus Christ to save us that we have to dance and sing our thanksgiving, and besides it says in the Bible: God loves a cheerful giver.”

I think a little of this Tanzanian spirit is alive and in our midst at Redeemer. November is the month we celebrate Thanksgiving and what a great occasion it is to praise God and dance as we bring our offering to the altar. The spirit around the Redeemer community is swelling and we are dancing. Thanks to an incredible assembly of talented volunteers, we are experiencing lively worship. Sunday School outreach is growing, and Redeemer is hosting an amazing after school program under the leadership of Augsburg College senior Angela Bonfiglio. Thanks to church council leadership, we are venturing into an exciting capital campaign, and a photo and congregational directory. In addition to all these activities, we have the Glenwood House which is beginning to make significant progress.

Each week, God is blessing the community of Redeemer with new visitors and prospective members, and wonderful friends and partners joining in the effort to serve as a beacon of hope in North Minneapolis. Children from the northside, attending the Wednesday night after school program, celebrate God's presence among us.

Last month, Redeemer staff participated in a day long retreat facilitated by Jenney Egertson. During the retreat, we asked ourselves what it would be like to create a "culture of gratitude" at Redeemer. We listed the many activities at Redeemer, and ways that staff can support these activities to build a culture where everyone is appreciated and knows that their contributions are valid.

For gratitude to become a statement of culture it has to begin with the congregation. Redeemer strives to be a congregation where everyone is valued and appreciated. We strive to be faithful in offering hope and opportunities for everyone to join in our mission to be a beacon of hope.

This month I pray that each of you will participate in the new capital campaign, the photo directory, our congregational survey, and of course, our ongoing worship, Bible Study and outreach activities. Thank you again for your partnership in ministry and contribution to Redeemer's culture of gratitude.

Lets keep dancing!!

Memorial Tree Lighting

Guardian Angels † Elim Hospice will hold

a Memorial Tree Lighting on Tuesday,

December 4, at Lake Ridge Manor (310

Lake Blvd, Buffalo), beginning at 7pm.

If you are interested in purchasing a bulb

(or many), in memory of a loved one, you

may do so by calling 763.552.2160.

Sunday Announcements

The relationships of our members with

one another bring a richness to our lives

and we want to foster these relationships.

If you would like your church family to be

aware of any special celebrations in your

life or the lives of your loved ones, please

let the church office know by Thursday at

10am and we will include them in the

written announcement insert in the

bulletin.

17

Redeemer Christmas Store

Zion’s Global Missions Committee is working together with Redeemer Lutheran Church to give children in the Harrison neighborhood of North Minneapolis the opportunity to give Christmas gifts to their loved ones. The Christmas Store gives children the chance to buy four gifts for their family members and get them gift-wrapped for 25c per gift. Entertainment and a free lunch is also provided. This event also gives Redeemer the opportunity to reach out to inner city kids that are otherwise untouched by their ministry.

There are many ways to contribute to the success of this event and they hope to match your passion for giving with our needs in providing a child the opportunity to give Christmas gifts to their loved ones:

There is a collection bin for gifts in the narthex until Wednesday, December 5. Suggested value is $3-5 per gift.

Wrapping supplies can also be left in the collection bin.

Volunteers are also invited to volunteer at the event on December 8 from 8:30-noon at Redeemer Lutheran Church.

Contact Dave Nerothin or the Redeemer Lutheran Church office (612.374.4139) with any questions or to let them know that you will be volunteering.

As a result of working closely with the other sound technicians, Jubilee, and First Sunday, Bob has been able to build close relationships with other members of those groups.

Bob was asked what makes a good sound technician:

That is a good question. Someone with a musical background is helpful. They have to be a good listener. Not just for the musical part but also to the people they work with. Be prepared to commit some time to learning the system and working with the pastors, musicians and speakers. The most important quality though should be a commitment to excellence. They should strive to do the best job possible every time they power up the system. If the congregation can forget we are there then we have done our job.

It doesn’t matter how old you are, if you are male or female. I have known some young ladies that have done a fantastic job running a sound board. One of the best techs we had was still in high school. He was committed to doing a good job and he took the time to learn what to do.

~ Bob Strommen

Bob also serves on the Worship & Music committee, recently led audio-video task force in researching projector options for the sanctuary, and has been a regular participant in Zion’s annual golf outing.

If being part of the sound team sounds like something you would like to try, please stop by the sound booth after any service and talk to Bob or any of the team. They are always looking for more technicians, and can provide training.

(Leading Zion’s Sound Team continued from page 14)

The Zion congregation is adopting

three Buffalo families. To help

provide gifts for these families, please

take a tag from the display in the

narthex. Tags list the age of the child

and their request. Purchase the

indicated gift, and return it (with the

tag), unwrapped, to Zion by Sunday,

December 9.

If your family, small group,

committee, or confirmation team

would like to adopt an entire family,

contact the church office as soon as

possible for a sign up form.

To volunteer during the collection of

gifts on December 10-11 (4-7pm) or

the distribution of gifts on December

13-14 (4-7pm), please contact

[email protected] or call

Love INC-Big Woods at

763.682.2550.

Thank you for your generosity!

(Advent Projects continued from page 3)

The Voice

A monthly publication of Zion Lutheran Church

Upcoming Deadlines

November 12 at 8am for December Issue

December 5 at 8am for January Issue

Editor: Angela Bengtson

[email protected]

This Month’s Cover

Last Year’s Christmas Celebration Choir

Contact Us

[email protected]

www.ZionBuffalo.org

Office Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30am-

4:30pm (closes at noon summer Fridays)

Ph 763.682.1245 / Fax 763.684.1967

1200 Highway 25 South, Buffalo (across

from 13th St S.)

PO Box 88, Buffalo, MN 55313

18

Zion Staff

Ted Vanderpan: Senior Pastor

ext. 304 | [email protected]

Luke Schmidt: Pastor of Congregational Life


Sherilyn Burgdorf: Shared Ministry Director


Holly Husom: Co-Director of Christian Education


Kirsten Kelly: Co-Director of Christian Education


Myron Crawford: Director of Youth Ministries


Jim Onstad: Youth Staff

Dawn Bestick: Office Administrator / Receptionist

ext. 301/302 | [email protected]

Ann Lyons: Office Administrator / Receptionist

Ext. 301/302 | [email protected]

Angela Bengtson: Communications & Membership


Sue Stensrud: Financial Secretary


Ryan Bjokne: Facilities & Grounds Manager

[email protected]

Louis Nagel: Part-time Custodian

Missy Peterson & Laurel Lundeen: Nursery Staff

Denise & Aimee: Kids’ Place Staff

Michael Walsh: Coordinator of Music

Bob Strommen: Sound System Coordinator

Congregational Council

Roger Brenny

Bill Deneen

Mike Davis

Kelly Hanson

Deana Jeske

Beverly Koopman

Sue Lyrek

Tom Moline

Mike Newman

Steve Peterson

Lorraine Statema

Wanda Weber

Inside

Zion Lutheran Church

1200 Highway 25 S.

PO Box 88

Buffalo, MN 55313

www.ZionBuffalo.org

Address Service Requested

Standard

U.S. Postage

PAID

Permit 11

Buffalo MN 55313

Address Label Here

Zambia Update 2

Give the Gift of Faith 3

Parent Days Out 4

Women’s Retreat 5

Annual Meeting 6

Bob Strommen 6

Choirboys Concert 7

Year End Giving 9

Christmas Worship 11

Anticipating Christmas 13

Keep Dancing 16

Decem

ber 2

01

2

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ZionBuffalo.org

Banners made by the Kindergarten and 4th grade students who received Bibles in October

Zion's December Newsletter

Documents

Transcript of Zion's December Newsletter