Q - Michigan In Touch Online

michigan
FEBRUARY 2016
A publication of the Michigan District of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod
The Lutheran Witness Michigan District, LCMS Supplement
IN TOUCH
HEALTHY CONGREGATIONS
Bridging the Gap
A
© FotoMak/iStock
t any given time, between 15 and 25 congregations in the Michigan District utilize the
services of an Intentional Interim Ministry (IIM)
pastor. And as congregations and districts become
aware of the benefits and even the need for such
a ministry, demand is increasing. The Michigan
District, one of five leading LCMS districts in IIM,
has been training 4-6 pastors a year, but other districts
are not up to the task yet—so they borrow pastors
from Michigan. The conclusion is obvious: more
IIM pastors are needed. So, pastor, if you are about
to retire and would like to continue active in ministry
somehow, this might be for you.
But what exactly does an IIM pastor do? Rev. Jim
Eggert, an IIM pastor who is finishing his second
assignment, explains: “Intentional Interim Pastors
are used for a variety of reasons, including simply to
continued on page 2
michigan
IN TOUCH
Rev. Dr. David P. E. Maier, President
Debby Fall, Editorial Manager
Seth Hinz, Web/Media Director
Official Periodical of the Michigan District
of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod
February 2016, Volume 15, No. 2
ISSN: 1538-8115 (print)
ISSN: 2331-8619 (online)
Jenna Szpara, Designer
Elisa Schulz, Staff Writer/Copy Editor
©2016 Michigan District, LCMS, Ann Arbor, Michigan. Michigan In Touch is published
monthly by the Michigan District and inserted into The Lutheran Witness and distributed
to subscribers 11 times a year. It is also available online at www.michiganintouch.com.
Reproduction of articles is permissible with written permission of the Michigan District
Communications Department and should give credit to Michigan In Touch. References
to resources and websites for further information are included in Michigan In Touch for
the potential use by individuals and congregations. Resources not associated with or
published by The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod or Concordia Publishing House® may
contain helpful programmatic information but may vary in doctrine from The Lutheran
Church—Missouri Synod. Please use discretion or consult your pastor on doctrinal issues.
Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture is from the English Standard Version (ESV).
Michigan District, LCMS
3773 Geddes Rd
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
888.225.2111
[email protected]
michigandistrict.org
Table of Contents
1
4
6
7, 10
8
12
13
13
14
16
16
Healthy Congregations
Great Commission
Great Compassion
Healthy Workers
Church Extension Fund
Congregation and School News
Special Recognition
LLL
LWML
Calls and Roster Update
Calendar of Events
michiganintouch.com
1
HEALTHY CONGREGATIONS
continued from page 1
2 February 2016
doesn’t want to hear what the settled pastor wants to say,
but they are open to what this new person has to say. They
WANT this person there, and that helps. The IIM pastor
also can see things that the other pastor couldn’t because
he was in the middle of it. The IIM pastor can bring new
ideas for the congregation’s consideration and, because
“This ministry brings constant affirmation
that the Holy Spirit is alive and at work
in the church. He changes hearts and
brings forgiveness and joy. You can really
see Him at work.”
he knows he is not going to stay there, he also has the
freedom to ask tough questions and touch sensitive spots.
Schilke says that there is no “canned” way of doing
the IIM, since every congregation is different: “The IIM
pastor has to discern and help solve and sometimes do
lots of confession/absolution. Everyone has challenges
but there are many joys as well.” Eggert adds, “It is nice
to know, after going through that specific process, that the
congregation is more ready to call a pastor. In the congregation I’m presently serving, on a year-end evaluation
which included responses from Elders, Church Council
Members, and Interim Task Force Members, on a fivepoint scale (with 5 being ‘yes, definitely’) the response
average was 4.85 to this question: ‘Do you think the
congregation is in a better condition for calling a pastor
than it was a year ago?’ I would say that attests to the
value of going through a process to re-focus and set sight
on a future direction in preparation for calling a pastor.”
Is this ministry for you? Take a fellow pastor’s word for
it: “I wish I knew about this ministry as a pastor years and
years ago. I’d encourage other pastors to look into this.
It’s a very rewarding ministry that you normally would
not experience as a settled pastor” (Rev. Gary Siefert).
To learn more about IIM, contact Rev. Dr. Robert Kasper
at [email protected] or 734.213.4230.
© FotoMak/iStock
give a congregation time to reflect on its past, sort out
lessons to be learned, and plan for its future. Sometimes
members are sensing a need for re-focus and sometimes
they are not.” The ministry is intentional and intense, but
with an end in sight. The length of the call varies from
eight to 18 months, sometimes a little longer, depending
on what the congregation wants and also on the calendar
(summer vacation, Advent, and Lent pauses).
Rev. Gary Siefert had never heard of IIM until Rev. Dr.
Robert E. Kasper, Michigan District’s Interim Ministry
Director, brought up the subject; Siefert then signed up
for training, and is currently serving on his second assignment. He says, “It’s a very, very rewarding ministry for
both congregations and clergy who participate in it. My
wife and I enjoy the adventure of moving around and
meeting new people. It’s temporary and open-ended,
and we enjoy the sense of adventure. We will not be there
indefinitely.”
Rev. Steve Schilke had heard about the IIM program
and was interested because he wanted to stay in ministry
after retiring, but not full time. He completed four interims and is now in his fifth assignment. He says, “The
interesting part [of this ministry] is helping people come
together, work together and receive the new pastor with
joy. This ministry brings constant affirmation that the
Holy Spirit is alive and at work in the church. He changes
hearts and brings forgiveness and joy. You can really see
Him at work.”
When thinking about the ministry of Intentional Interim
pastors, Rev. Dr. Kasper likes to compare it to the ministry of John the Baptist. He says,
“Like John the Baptist, IIM pastors help congregations tell God’s salvation story, lead them to repentance
when necessary, and prepare them for their new permanent, ‘settled’ pastor. Leading the congregation through
[specific tasks], the IIM pastor INTENTIONALLY
prepares the congregation for a new beginning with their
new pastor. The IIM pastor makes every effort to immerse
himself in the congregation’s system, while staying
outside the system in order to provide objective diagnosis
and healing through intentional use of Law and Gospel.
A trained IIM pastor ‘begins with the end in mind.’ He
comes to the congregation knowing he is the temporary
shepherd and not eligible to become the settled pastor.
His sole purpose is to bring the congregation to the best
outcome, which is well defined at the outset of the interim.
Therefore, the congregation has everything to gain, and
the IIM pastor has nothing to lose.”
Siefert explains that an IIM pastor can be very effective
because he is a “new face”—sometimes the congregation
PURE
by God for God
by David Wright
I
The gathering featured the Michael Maher Band.
n November, nearly 400 people
assembled at Our Savior, Lansing
for a youth gathering called PURE:
By God For God. The purpose of the
gathering was for teens and parents
to be encouraged and motivated as
they learned about relationships,
respect, love, honor, and commitment
through the lens of a Scripture-based,
Christian worldview. In addition, it
was to strengthen young people’s
understanding of the proper foundation for marriage. The idea for
PURE: By God For God began with
a longing to present teens and parents
with useful and inspiring information about the topic of purity. This
prompting of the Holy Spirit, along with the financial generosity of members of
Our Savior Lutheran Church, made this purity event a reality.
Those in attendance were led by a terrific Christian band and two outstanding speakers. The Michael Maher Band opened with worshipful songs
prior to the teens and parents separating and being presented with godly
messages on the topic of purity specifically designed for each of these two
groups. Rev. Bill Yonker, senior pastor of Immanuel Lutheran Church of
East Dundee, Ill., captivated teens with his humorous and energetic style,
while Rev. Dr. David P. E. Maier, president of the Michigan District, LCMS,
clearly and honestly delivered an informed presentation woven around the
theme of fighting to keep our families pure in this spiritual battle against
Satan and sinful temptation.
During Maier’s presentation, parents in attendance were encouraged to
remain faithful in God’s Word, to pray for and with their kids, and to talk to
their kids about resisting temptation. He also stressed that we are in a war
with Satan and, because of that, parents must not give in to what’s “cool” or
what seems the norm for everyone else. “A war changes what’s cool,” was one
of the biggest takeaways for a parent
of an 8th grader. For those looking
“... the event was ‘A positive and engaging opportunity for
for self-help types of strategies for
teens and parents to talk openly, honestly, and biblically
the battle with sexual temptation,
about God’s call to live pure and decent lives in what we do Maier reminded them that they were
found in the timeless and most effecand say, all under the redeeming cross of Jesus.’”
tive practices that we know of for
Christians—time spent reading and
applying God’s Word and time in
prayer, all the while recognizing that
Satan is relentless and, therefore,
our resistance to temptation must
be strong—totally relying on God
for His strength. One mother of two
teens stated, “The fact that this is a
spiritual battle really called me to
Rev. Dr. David P. E. Maier addresses parents during the gathering.
continued on page 15
michiganintouch.com
3
GREAT COMMISSION
Lynn Corker, founding director
for Women of the Pearl
Women of the Pearl
M
by Jeanne Burton-Lee
edina is not a woman you forget. In 2012 she attended a women’s
Bible study and, afterward, she shared that she and her husband were
Muslims and he was ill and needed prayer. Medina believed that Jesus is
her Lord and Savior and wanted to be baptized, but her husband would not
let her convert. Fast forward two years. Medina’s husband has now passed
away. Upon his passing, Medina became homeless, but she has found a way
to take in four orphans and provide for them all. As of today, she is still a
Muslim but had the orphaned children baptized in the Christian church,
reads Scripture to them every evening, and ensures they get to worship every
week. We know her story isn’t over yet.
The Lutheran Women’s Missionary League (LWML) focuses on encouraging women to share the Gospel using the special gifts God has chosen to
give them. The mission “Women of the Pearl” (an impactful ministry that is
bringing the love of Christ into the lives of women like Medina in Uganda,
East Africa) is but one of the opportunities presented showing how we might
utilize special talents, personalities, and experiences.
Lynn Corker, founding director for Women of the Pearl, explained how the
ministry works: “We have a very specific mission in that we don’t ‘give’ things
away to the women, but we are happy to take supplies to teach them a skill so
that they can teach others and/or create a business for themselves from it (the
‘teach a man to fish principle’). At the heart of it all is Jesus.”
Women of the Pearl has seen the effect of ministering to women, and because
one village was faithful with little, they were moved to bless Hope Lutheran
in Bufuula with sewing machines so that the women could sew children’s
4 February 2016
Matthew 13:45-46 says,
“Again, the kingdom of
Heaven is like a merchant
looking for fine pearls.
When he found one of great
value, he went away and
sold everything he had and
bought it.”
Jesus, like the merchant,
gave everything to call
us his own. He wants to
spend eternity with those
he has redeemed. Uganda
is nicknamed ‘The Pearl of
Africa’ and women in this
country desperately need
to hear how precious they
are to the Kingdom.
school uniforms and create handicrafts as a means toward cottage earnings.
The machines were purchased at a market in Uganda to support the local economy and not compete with current economic structures. The villages where
machines were placed indicated that they would be devoting their first profits
to assisting other villages in starting similar projects. Incorporating the Gospel
into the society rather than imposing foreign standards is seen as way of engaging Christ in lives—transforming women where they are, offering real hope.
Representatives of Women of the Pearl were at a one-day retreat hosted by
the LWML of the Gateway and Battle Creek Zones. The retreat took place
at St. John’s, Burr Oak and 50 area women attended. Taking advantage of a
local connection to Women of the Pearl, the retreat presenter was Amy Balzer
Pemberton, who grew up in Sturgis, Mich. the daughter of Rev. James and
Phyllis Balzer. Pemberton became involved in Women of the Pearl when she
volunteered to design a logo for the ministry. She had no intention of further
involvement, but she was gradually drawn into the lives of the women and
eventually traveled to Uganda. During her presentation at the retreat, she
emphasized how local women could become more aware of unrecognized
skills in responding to other’s needs.
Jane, from the town of Masindi, married a man who, unbeknownst to her,
was already married to another woman and had five children. Through much
prayer and grace, Jane ended up adopting his five children and opened her
own business. She was able to fund the schooling for all 10 children they eventually had. She also found a way to save enough money to buy some land and
built a home on the land with her own hands, brick by brick (as is customary
in Uganda for women to do). A short while ago, Jane’s husband passed away
and now she is in a dispute with her adopted children over land ownership.
In Uganda, when a husband passes, the land is rightfully given to the eldest
son. Jane is now in jeopardy of being homeless. Despite all of these setbacks,
Medina with a Bible
continued on page 15
Hope Lutheran in Bufuula was gifted sewing machines purchased at a market in Uganda
so that the women could sew children’s school uniforms and create handicrafts.
michiganintouch.com
5
GREAT COMPASSION
Sweatshirt
S
Drop
by Tyler Cronkright
ometimes our Lord works in what appears to be
serendipity. Last fall, the staff and students of
Concordia University Ann Arbor conducted their Second
Annual Sweatshirt Drop. The afternoon prior, the
students had a lunch-and-learn discussion on homelessness with Rev. James Hill from Family of God, Detroit.
That discussion was followed by a Night Without Roofs,
where students stayed outside on the cold grass in cardboard boxes. The night was followed by a chapel service
in the morning where more than 600 sweatshirts were
donated to Family of God by students and faculty for the
people of Southwest Detroit. That’s where serendipity
appeared to kick in.
When the date was set for the sweatshirt distribution,
to everyone’s surprise it coincided with the planned visit
of Octane, a youth group with about 10 students from
around the State of Michigan. It also coincided with a
small mission duo from St. Mark, Saginaw working
on sorting the clothing stored for Family of God at the
parsonage of St. Stephen, Detroit.
God’s plan worked out so much better. CUAA students
and Rev. Randy Duncan, Director of Campus Ministry,
delivered the sweatshirts along with a meal and a message.
The mission team from St. Mark sorted the sweatshirts
into sizes and gender, and finally the youth from Octane
manned the tables and gave out close to 400 sweatshirts!
As the months grew colder, the remaining sweatshirts
continued to be distributed. Praise God for this amazing
display of love that was first shown to us.
Tyler Cronkright is a CUAA graduate in Family Life
and Social Work. He started his practicum at Family of
God, Detroit in 2013 and hasn’t left since.
Youth from Octane Ministry and volunteers from St. Mark, Flint and Concordia University Ann Arbor sort and distribute sweatshirts to the homeless.
6 February 2016
HEALTHY WORKERS
Why?
F
by Mark Milatz
our pastors from Michigan are training to race in
an IRONMAN Triathlon in Louisville, Kentucky on
October 9, 2016. They are using this 140.6 mile race
as a vehicle to raise money for 20 scholarships in the
amount of $1,406 for students that are training for
careers in churches and Christian schools.
Why? Why in the world would you do that?
Those are the responses I’ve received after throwing out the soft lob that I was thinking about doing an
IRONMAN. Swimming 2.4 miles, biking 112, and
running 26.2 is a daunting task for anyone, let alone for
someone with a demanding job, a wife and four children, and graduate work. I don’t necessarily look the part
either, being more “Clydesdale” than “gazelle.”
So, why?
First off, I’m prone to hyperbole. This has generally
served me well as a preacher. I like to throw out grandiose statements and see what sticks. In this case, a few big
comments offered up around some bonfires with my friend
Rev. Drew Gruenhagen turned out to be fueled by more than
liquid courage while on a relaxing vacation. Something
sparked around those camping trip fires. Hyperbole turned
into discussion, first fearful, but eventually excited discussion about how cool it would be to accomplish the ultimate
in endurance—at least as far as we’re concerned.
We also began to consider how this race could serve as
a conduit to something bigger. And therein lies the truest
answer to why I’m embarking on this journey. I am a
proud graduate of Concordia University Chicago, River
Forest, Ill. I could not have graduated from there without
the financial assistance I received. No lie, two years in
a row I was ready to withdraw, only to receive an unexpected scholarship from the local chapter of the Lutheran
Woman’s Missionary League. I have never taken the
blessings I received for granted, and have attempted to
give back whenever possible. So, when the Michigan
District Lutheran churches agreed at a convention last
summer to start Here We Stand (herewestand.michigandistrict.org), a campaign that would, in part, provide
scholarships for local students studying at a Concordia
University or Seminary to become professional church
workers, this IRONMAN venture found its deeper
purpose. I, along with three like-minded pastor friends,
am going to use this opportunity to raise money for future
pastors, teachers at Lutheran schools, musicians, parish
nurses, and anyone else studying to serve professionally
in a local church. They need our help, and we are privileged to do our small part.
That’s why!
Rev. Mark Milatz is the senior pastor at Shepherd of
the Lakes, Brighton. Joining him are Rev. Ben Vogel
(Shepherd of the Lakes, Brighton), Rev. Drew Gruenhagen
(St. Michael, Wayne), and Rev. Evan Gaertner (St. Paul,
Hamburg). Follow their journey at tri1406.com.
michiganintouch.com
7
Faith&
17th Edition
Finance
A Dialogue on Faith-Based Investing with CEF
Faith and Finance is a series of discussions about the role CEF investments can
play in the lives of Lutheran parishioners and congregations. In each installment,
the CEF team addresses common questions about CEF and our financial
products. If you would like to submit a question for consideration, e-mail us at
[email protected].
Q:
A:
Q:
A:
8 February 2016
Who can invest in the Michigan
Church Extension Fund?
All participants in the Lutheran
Church-Missouri Synod Michigan
District are welcome to partner with
thousands of Lutheran individuals
and nearly 400 LCMS congregations
through their investments.
How is Church Extension Fund
different from other financial
institutions?
While other financial institutions focus on the interests of their
shareholders, our investments are driven by our shared faith. Your
investments mean valuable dollars are available to finance Michigan
District ministries. You earn returns on your investments, knowing that
your money is working to further our common Lutheran values.
Q:
A:
Q:
A:
Q:
A:
Who will assist me with my investments?
Carolyn, Kris and Cheryl are available Monday through Friday from
8:30 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. to assist new and current investors with their
questions. Just give us a call, 800-242-3944.
Is my money safe with
Church Extension Fund?
Michigan District Church Extension Fund
has been the lending and investing choice
since 1901. Thousands of individuals and
hundreds of Michigan District organizations
currently work with us. Since its beginning,
CEF has helped its investors earn positive
returns every year and no investor has lost a cent through CEF.
Our Offering Circular at www.mi-cef.org is a great resource for information
regarding the financial strength of Michigan Church Extension Fund. As with
any investment, past performance does not guarantee future returns.
Can I access my information online?
Yes, you will have secure access to view your CEF investments online.
Once you have opened your account you can create your CEF Direct
online access with just a few simple steps.
Visit www.mi-cef.org/cef_direct to create your CEF Direct account.
WHY CEF?
PROVEN investment products, measurable results
DEDICATED Christian financial management since 1901
FOCUSED on funding the needs of Michigan District congregations
Contact CEF today to learn
Church Extension Fund • Michigan District of The Lutheran Church —Missouri Synod
how CEF can help with your
3773 Geddes Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48105-3098 • www.mi-cef.org
retirement investments.
Offices: 800-242-3944 • Interest rates anytime: 800-232-7313
HEALTHY WORKERS
Proper Perspective
for To-Do Lists
T
he husband calls from church, says he left his
glasses on the counter, asks if I’ll bring them with
me when I leave the house in two minutes to head to the
Sunday service. Two minutes later—okay, five—I walk
out of the house, the glasses still sitting on the counter.
Sometimes I’d swear I’ve got a sieve in my head.
That’s why there are lists all over the house.
You’ve got your grocery lists. And your to-do lists.
Lists of gift ideas. Lists of books to read. There’s the list
of things to do over summer vacation still posted on the
fridge at Christmas, and the meal ideas list that is perpetually blank.
The tricky part of having so many lists is keeping track
of them. They are surprisingly adept at playing hide and
seek, giggling their papery giggles as I search through the
Dr. Seussian piles on the kitchen table, desperate to write
down my latest thought in the 15 seconds before it climbs
out of my brain and flies off into the sunshine.
More often than not I can’t find the correct list or
forget I’ve started one in the first place. Which means
that, in addition to the lists, there are also random scraps
of paper strewn about, covered in scribbled ideas and
reminders. Later I’ll find them and frown at the scrawled
handwriting, trying to decipher their mysterious and
important-sounding messages.
The amazing thing to me is that, despite the holes in
my brain and the piles on my counters and the scattered
bits of paper taunting me with the things I’m supposed
to remember but don’t, somehow the things that are
really important get done. The family gets fed. The kids
make it to school, almost always on time. We say our I
love yous and our I’m sorrys and our I forgive yous. No,
I don’t always get the cheese and sausage fundraising
form turned in. But the sieve does manage to catch the
big pieces.
If it’s really important, it gets done.
There’s a Katie Conference for pastors’ wives and
10 February 2016
widows coming up, the magnet on my refrigerator
reminds me. I should go to that. It would be good for me.
I’d better remember to register. I’ll add it to my to-do list.
But the stuff on my table and the stuff of life is going
to get in the way. I’m going to forget. Forgetting is easier
than doing. It’ll be just another should-have-done, slipping away into the past with a million other little regrets
that blink for a while and then go dark.
Unless I decide that it’s one of the important things.
The other day I was merrily buzzing along, getting lots
of things done, having a productive evening. And then my
eldest son came lurching into the kitchen, his eyes wide.
“Mom. I just remembered that I have jazz band practice
tonight. And I’m supposed to be there in 10 minutes.
And Mr. Wilbert wants me to bring my drum set. And it’s
really, really important.”
A sigh and a head shake later, I was hauling drums out
to the van and dashing off into the night, my productivity
a fading memory. My child needed me, so I went.
Sometimes you just have to drop everything and do
what really matters.
What is it that really matters? What gets caught in your
sieve? What, of the hundreds of things on your mental
lists, is going to absolutely positively and for sure get
accomplished?
Maybe it’s getting your kid to band practice. Maybe
it’s taking 20 minutes to listen to a friend who is hurting. Maybe it’s that Friday night date to the local pizza
joint you’ve been talking about for so long. And maybe
it’s plucking the magnet off of your fridge, looking up
a website, and committing to spend some time among
sisters who will be encouraged by your presence, even if
you never say a word.
Whatever you do, whatever are the definite get
dones on your lists, whatcontinued on page 14
© luminis/iStock
by Julie Riddle
Grandparents Camp:
The Best Time Ever!
H
ave you ever had one of those weekends that you
have said, “That’s just about the best time I’ve ever
had in my life!” It could have been a time during a honeymoon, a vacation, or possibly a weekend around
the house without outside responsibilities. Well, on one particular weekend
last summer, I can definitely say,
“That’s just about the best time
I’ve ever had in my life!”
My husband Ben and I
strongly feel that grandparents are an integral ingredient
in helping to pass on the faith
to grandchildren. We feel that
grandparents are often the
key, the generation connector,
the tool that can aid the parents
and the Holy Spirit in passing on
the faith. With this conviction, we
held a camp for our grandchildren
last summer. We called it Camp GBJ
(Grandpa/Grandma Ben and Jennifer).
Prior to becoming a professor and Director of
the Concordia Center of the Family Life, my husband,
Ben, was a Director of Christian Education and Director
of Family Ministry where he designed, created, and
carried out fantastically fun camps every summer for
children in the parish. We chose one of his themes, and
decided we’d conduct a camp for our own children’s children called “Jesus is the Light.”
We wrote our purpose and goals, ordered embroidered
t-shirts and caps, and set our camp up. There were rules,
responsibilities, awards, and loads of fun and laughter.
We had devotions, sang, and did activities around the
theme at each meal, conducted a servant event, read the
lessons in church on Sunday and helped with a children’s
message. We did so many fun activities that the grandchildren asked if we could please do this again next year!
Over the weekend, we stayed up late every night and woke
up early every morning. Our night activities included shar-
by Jennifer Freudenburg
“It was a weekend of extreme laughter,
jokes, excitement, creativity, and best of
all, getting to share our faith in
Jesus, the Light of the World,
with our grandchildren!”
ing Jesus as the light that exposes darkness and our sins. We
hunted “sins” that were hidden all over the house and used
our UV light pens to read what they were because they were
written in invisible ink. We each wrote out and confessed
our sins, then burned them in the bar-b-que pit. We went on a
night bike ride with glow in the dark necklaces, spoke lights,
and strobe lights on the bikes and lights attached to our caps.
We played soccer with a light-up LED soccer ball, Christmas
tree lights that outlined a field and wrapped around cones as
goals (the light shows us the way). We made cross necklaces
with glow-in-the-dark beads (and gave packets of necklaces
out at the children’s message for them to make their own.)
We had lots of snacks and all meals were designed using
their suggestions. We played games that had us rolling
with laughter. We turned in cans and bought many boxes
continued on page 14
michiganintouch.com
11
Congregation and School News
Higher Things Youth Conference Attendees
Higher Things Youth Conference
Higher Things Lutheran youth conference was held in
Michigan this past summer at Calvin College in Grand
Rapids. New friends were made as more than 900 youth,
chaperones, pastors, and church workers attended, some
traveling from as far as Canada and Sweden.
The mission of Higher Things is to assist in cultivating
a distinctively Lutheran identity among youth and young
adults. During the conference, youth attended multiple
worship services each day, learned together during largegroup plenary sessions, and enjoyed free-time activities.
Higher Things conference Bread of Life 2016 will be
held at the following locations: Vanderbilt University,
Nashville, Tenn., June 28-July 1; University of Northern
Iowa, Cedar Falls, Iowa, July 5-8; and Colorado State
University, Fort Collins, Colo., July 26-29.
Registration opened November 1, 2015. For more
information, or to download a registration packet, visit
higherthings.org.
Grace, Leslie Serves Senior Meals
Volunteers from Grace, Leslie serve a delicious and
healthy meal each week, Monday through Wednesday,
from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
The Tri-County Office on Aging provides hot, wellbalanced meals to the church and over 30 other locations
throughout the community. They also serve seniors with
health screening, physical fitness, nutrition education,
special programs, and guest speakers on various subjects
such as legal assistance and information, and assistance
services. Some transportation to the sites is arranged for
those who need it.
The church opens its doors to seniors from 11 a.m. until
2 p.m. Aside from serving the meal, volunteers plan activities including guest speakers, Euchre, and table games.
All are welcome, but reservations are requested by calling the church office at 517.589.2050 or Tasha Stetler at
517. 887.1393 at least one day in advance.
Pictured here are the volunteers who served the first meal on Monday,
November 30, 2015. They are (back row l-r) Norma Delucia, Barb
Fenningsdorf, and Carolyn Thomas. Front row (l-r) Rev. Michael Martin,
Tasha Stetler (Tri-County Office on Aging), Wendy Hockley, and Gloria
Minnieboo. Not pictured was Chris Kittleson.
12 February 2016
Special Recognition
Roggow Installed
Rev. Aaron Warner Roggow was installed as associate
pastor at St. Paul, Ann Arbor on Sunday, November 22,
2015. Born in Midland, Mich., Roggow attended St. Peter,
Hemlock and Valley Lutheran High School in Saginaw,
Mich. From there he continued his studies at Concordia
University Ann Arbor (CUAA), where he received a
Bachelor of Science degree in Religious Studies.
Roggow met his wife Mandy while studying at CUAA.
After his second year of training at Concordia Seminary,
St. Louis, Mo., they were chosen to participate in a studyabroad program. For one year they lived in Cambridge,
England, where Roggow studied at Westfield House
(the theological seminary for the Evangelical Lutheran
Church of England). He then served his vicarage at
Trinity Lutheran Church in Baton Rouge, La. Following
Roggow’s final year of pastoral studies, he entered and
began studies in the Master of Sacred Theology program,
a degree for which he is continuing to study. He received
his first Call in May of 2011 from St. Peter, Arlington
Heights, Ill., where he served as associate pastor.
The Roggows are excited about the new changes
God has in store for them. In December 2015, Gabriel
joined their two sons, Markus (4) and Abraham (2). The
Roggows and the St. Paul family work together proclaiming the Gospel of Jesus Christ to the Ann Arbor area.
Rev. Aaron Roggow (left) pictured with St. Paul, Ann Arbor Senior
Pastor Rev. Donald Neuendorf.
LUTHERAN LAYMEN’S LEAGUE
LHM Local Ambassadors
A Lutheran Hour Ministries (LHM) Ambassador is a
volunteer who is a liaison between his or her congregation and LHM. Ambassadors keep members informed on
the programs LHM has to offer to help with congregational outreach and missions.
Ambassador responsibilities include the following:
• create awareness of the programs of LHM within the
congregation wherever and whenever possible using
various communication channels, including but not
limited to church and small group presentations, bulletins
and newsletters, bulletin boards, displays, and handouts;
• encourage participation in LHM’s projects and the
use of LHM resources;
• work annually with your pastor on LHM Sunday
celebration, or one event to promote LHM;
• order and display LHM promotional materials,
special occasion and memorial cards; participate in
web-based LHM training sessions and/or download
materials from the LHM website;
• attend zone and district workshops in your area to
share ideas, update reports, etc.;
• sign up for LHM’s corporate e-newsletters such as
Ministry Update, LHM Church & School Resources; and
• any others that pertain to the specific outreach
programs of your congregation.
Qualified Ambassadors must:
• have access to e-mail and the Internet;
• be a member of an LCMS/LCC church;
• possess strong communication skills, be passionate about
outreach and the ministries of your congregation; and
• have enthusiasm for LHM’s ministries.
Ambassador resources include:
• information about current and upcoming LHM
programs through quarterly email newsletters from
the LHM Ambassador Specialist;
• necessary materials to create interest in LHM
programs within your congregation; and
• online training through the web-based sessions and
downloadable training materials.
Men and women are needed to fill the role of ambassador
in Michigan District congregations. If you are interested
in knowing more about the LHM Ambassador’s duties
and process, please contact the Michigan District LLL
President, Mr. John Raffel at [email protected].
Michigan District Ambassadors
michiganintouch.com
13
LUTHERAN WOMEN’S MISSIONARY LEAGUE
LWML MICHIGAN DISTRICT
2016 CONVENTION
JULY 29 - 31, 2016
BOYNE MOUNTAIN
Graphic designed by Gen Abrams
COMING
THIS
SUMMER
Coming in March! ‐ Conven�on Registra�on forms may be found at www.lwmlmichigan.org website. John 15:16
Please mail Mites to: Glory Drum; PO Box 305; Warren, MI 48090
Proper Perspective for To-Do Lists
continued from page 10
© luminis/iStock
ever you fail and fear and
forget to do, there is one
thing you can absolutely
positively and for certain
know: your name is on a
list. One that will never get
lost in a shuffle.
Our Heavenly Father dropped everything to scoop us
up and make us His. He gave us His child that we might
be His children, His Most Important Thing. He feeds us,
teaches us, whispers words of forgiveness every moment
of every day. Of all of the millions of things God might
choose to do, loving us is the one thing He will never not
get done.
In the eyes of your Maker, you are what matters.
Write it down. It’s worth remembering.
Julie J. Riddle and her husband, Rev. J. Derek Riddle,
live (with their three boisterous children and an assortment of animals) in Rogers City, up at the tip of the lower
mitten, where Derek shepherds the wonderful people at
Peace Lutheran Church. Julie teaches grades 6-8 at St.
John, Rogers City and is very fond of old books, pickles,
and long walks in the woods.
14 February 2016
Grandparents Camp
continued from page 11
of cereal for children who go
hungry in the summer with the
proceeds, and spent a number
of hours at an indoor waterpark. Throughout it all, we did
activities that reminded us that
Jesus, the Light, is our guide,
takes away darkness and exposes our sins, and that we were
to be light reflectors. We were even able to obtain a Thrivent
Action Team grant to help us defray the cost of supplies.
At the close of camp, their parents viewed a video from
the “go pro” camera that the grandchildren took throughout the event (even at night and underwater) that recapped
our experiences. Each child received a specific award for
something that “fit” their personality while at camp.
It was a weekend of extreme laughter, jokes, excitement, creativity, and best of all, getting to share our faith
in Jesus, the Light of the World, with our grandchildren!
If you would like resources to help you plan your own
Grandparents Camp, visit bit.ly/1P8lvtb.
Jennifer Freudenberg is the Project Manager for the
Concordia Center For the Family on the campus of
Concordia University Ann Arbor, Mich.
PURE by God for God
continued from page 3
arms.” Another parent was
reminded to, “... keep talking
to them about what His word
says for their lives ... our kids
are stronger than you might
think in saying no.” When
sexual temptation comes,
according to another attendee, “... the name of Jesus is
powerful and will kill the mood quickly!”
Teens in attendance were inspired by the words of
Rev. Yonker as he pointed out that, despite the obvious
differences in males and females, we are all the same in
Christ—possessing three very basic needs: to be loved, to
be valued, and not to be alone. He went on to emphasize the
need to have friends of the opposite sex without romance
being a motivating force. His message included assurance
that Christ has fulfilled all our needs by paying the debt of
our sins on the cross. Teens were also challenged to live a
pure life by recognizing that they are children of God and,
as such, have a higher calling—understanding that there is
always forgiveness for any sin. Terrific illustrations drove
home point after point during his talk. One 8th grader in
attendance recalled his stories with fondness saying that,
“... they made it easy to relate God to our everyday lives.”
Near the end of the presentation, the teens were given
the opportunity to sign a pledge of purity which stated
a promise to value their bodies as gifts from God while
striving to make choices to honor God with their bodies.
This was a pledge to also recognize the forgiveness they
have in Christ while offering unconditional forgiveness
to others who are struggling with guilt from sexual sins.
The Michael Maher Band gave a closing concert after
pizza and refreshments. Also present at PURE were
representatives from Covenant Eyes, Student Statesman
Institute, SMART (Sexually Mature and Responsible
Teens), which is a chapter of Aspire Relationship Education,
and resources on the topic of purity from the Gift and Bible
store of Lansing. A big hit of the event was the bottomless
coffee and hot chocolate station in the middle of the church
lobby. It helped add to a fun, necessary, and extremely
God-pleasing afternoon, discussing this very relevant topic
of sexual purity. Rev. Bill Wangelin, pastor at Our Savior,
said the event was “A positive and engaging opportunity
for teens and parents to talk openly, honestly, and biblically
about God’s call to live pure and decent lives in what we do
and say, all under the redeeming cross of Jesus.”
Rev. Yonker’s presentation is available at
vimeo.com/146244406.
David Wright is the Family Life Director at Our Savior,
Lansing.
Women of the Pearl
continued from page 5
Jane loves serving her Lord
and the women of Uganda
as a leader and advocate
for women’s ministry on
the board for the Lutheran
Church Mission in Uganda.
Pemberton’s involvement
with the women in East Africa included teaching hygiene
and business ownership skills, leading Bible studies,
and participating in a special program for the wives of
Ugandan pastors. Exercising her special love of children,
she found that her energy to play and hold babies freed
Ugandan mothers from the distraction of caring for their
children and gave them time to participate in some of the
special programs. Pemberton and the other presenters
of Women of the Pearl shared many illustrations of the
resourcefulness of the Ugandan women and how small
acts are transforming lives.
During the retreat, the women made personalized
prayer journals for the Women of the Pearl to distribute
on their next mission trip. Such resources help many of
the Ugandan women recognize the unity in the body of
Christ they have, even in isolated areas across the globe.
In addition to the journals, retreat women also brought
sewing kits and colorful fabrics, Band-Aids and basic
healthcare items, hygiene pads and white cotton, hook and
loop, and rip-stop fabric for women’s pads for distribution. Because of a generous gift from Thrivent Financial
and the Lutheran Heritage Foundation, 30 Swahili Small
Catechisms and two Swahili Books of Concord were also
included in the ingathering.
In 2013, in Jinja, Uganda, a woman named Edith
attended a workshop where she learned doctrine from
Luther’s Small Catechism. Since then, Edith has taken
her learnings and taught God’s Word to the members
of her congregation and surrounding villages. She
has been a catalyst to starting churches in five other
villages, and leads women’s ministry through drama,
dance, and music, and helps with youth ministry.
If you would like to learn more about Women of the
Pearl, contact Lynn Corker at womenofthepearl@gmail.
com, visit womenofthepearl.org or “Like” the Facebook
page of Women of the Pearl.
Jeanne Burton-Lee is a member of St. Paul’s, Colon. As
a member of LWML-Michigan District-Gateway Zone,
she enjoys encouraging and supporting others in the
mission of telling the Good News of salvation and peace
accomplished for all by our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
michiganintouch.com
15
Calls and Roster Update Calendar of Events
ORDAINED
Calls Accepted
Eggert, James F. (St. Joseph) to IIP, Family of Christ, Comstock Park
Farah, Ronald R. (Bloomfield Hills) to Associate Pastor, Our
Shepherd, Birmingham
Tonn, Paul A. (Wisconsin Rapids, WI) to Trinity, Reed City
Verity, Timothy M. (Grand Rapids) to IIP, St. John, Jenison
Watters, Samuel P. (Canton) to SMP, Living Word, Plymouth
Wiesenauer, Stephen C. (China) to Christ Our Savior, Holland
Change of Status
Haupt, Dieter E. (Grand Haven) to Emeritus
VanDellen, James H. (Lake Orion) to Emeritus
Transfer out of District
Urvan, John R. (Non-Candidate) to Ohio District
COMMISSIONED
Calls Accepted
Gross, Nancy (Candidate) to Trinity, Monroe
Hans, Emily (Concordia, Ann Arbor) to St. Paul, Flint
Huth, Daniel (Our Savior, Hartland, MI) to Trinity, Davison
Smith, Gail (Non-Candidate) to St. Matthew, Westland
Change of Status
DeVries, Kristi (Non-Candidate) to Non-Candidate
Hempel, Ruth (St. Peter’s, Eastpointe) to Candidate
Tomashewsky, Andrew (Faith, Bay City) to Candidate
Transfer out of District
Michael, Patricia (Emeritus) to Southeastern District
Transferred into District
Huth, Daniel (English District) to Trinity, Davison
Keller, Katherine (Wyoming District) as Candidate
Reinstated to the Roster
Stier, Janel
Vecsernyes, Evelyn
A complete up-to-date listing of
Removed from Roster
Calls and Vacancies can be found at
Spencer, Jesseca
michigandistrict.org, click on About.
FEBRUARY
4-6
4-7
7-8
10
15
Snowtire Principals’ Conference
Lansing, Mich.
FiveTwo StartNew 3Day and 1Day Refuel
Concordia University Ann Arbor
West Pastors’ Conference
DoubleTree, Grand Rapids, Mich.
Ash Wednesday
President’s Day
MARCH
4-6
20
22
25
27
Lutheran Schools Basketball Tournament
St. Paul, Ann Arbor and CUAA
Palm Sunday
Board of Directors
Concordia University Ann Arbor
Good Friday
DISTRICT OFFICE CLOSED
Easter Sunday
APRIL
16
Theological Conference – Let’s Talk Life!
Our Savior, Lansing
22-24 Katie Conference
DoubleTree, Bay City, Mich.
27
Administrative Professionals Day
MAY
2-4
North & East Pastors’ Conference
DoubleTree, Bay City, Mich.
5
Ascension Day
8
Mother’s Day
10-11 South & East Pastors’ Conference
Bavarian Inn Lodge, Frankenmuth, Mich.
11-12 Circuit Visitors Conference
Bavarian Inn Lodge, Frankenmuth, Mich.
25-26 Intentional Interim Ministry Conference
Michindoh, Hillsdale, Mich.
30
Memorial Day
DISTRICT OFFICE CLOSED
JUNE
3-5
Junior High Gathering
Bavarian Inn Lodge, Frankenmuth, Mich.
19
Father’s Day
19-24 Youth Summer Serve
Faith, Troy
For more detailed information, visit michigandistrict.org/events.
16 February 2016