MAY 2011 - Our Redeemer`s Lutheran Church

The Voice
May 2011
Inside
P. 3 Come to the Ministry Fair
P. 4 Blessed with Gifts to Share
P. 5 Sunday Evening Campfire
‘Worship
P. 5 Please Fill Me Up!
P. 5 Episcopal Church Women Tea
P. 6 ELCA Disaster Response to
Spring Storms
P. 7 Children’s Ministry
P. 8 SonSurf Beach Bash - VBS
P. 9 Meditations for Our Hearts and
Minds
P. 10 Ask the Worship Guy
P. 11 Family Promise
P. 12 From the Church Administrator
P. 13 Life in the Congregation
P. 14 WELCA
P. 15 Council Highlights
P. 16 Worship Assistants
P. 17 Holy Commotion!
P. 19 Wassup? Summer 2011
P. 21 Calendar
P. 22 Birthdays & Anniversaries
P. 23 Easy Giving form
P. 24 The Last Word
When God Created Mothers
In the beginning, on the sixth day of creation, God began
creating mothers. An angel appeared and said, “You are
sure doing a lot of fiddling around on this one.”
God said, “Have you read the specs for this design?
She has to be completely washable; have 180 moveable
parts; run on black coffee and leftovers; have a lap for
comforting; have a kiss that can cure scratches, bruises and
hurts; and have about six pair of hands.”
The angel shook its head slowly and said, “Six pair of
hands! No way!”
“The hands aren’t the problem” God confided. “It’s the
three pair of eyes that mothers require.”
“That’s on the standard model?” the angel inquired.
God nodded. “One pair of eyes that can see through
closed doors and ask, ‘What are you kids doing in there?’
when she already knows. Another pair that sees what she
shouldn’t have to see, but nevertheless needs to know. A
third pair that can look at an errant child and be able to
convey love without uttering a word.
“Lord,” the angel gently said, “get some rest. You can
work on her some more tomorrow.”
“I can’t!” God said. “I’m so close to creating something
really great. She can already heal herself when sick, feed a
family of six on a pound of hamburger and get a nine-yearold to stand under the shower.”
The angel circled the model of the mother very slowly
and gave it a touch. “She’s too soft.”
“But tough!” God replied excitedly. “You have no idea
how much this mother can do and endure.”
“Can she think?”
“Not only think, but she can reason and compromise
too,” the Creator replied.
Finally, the angel bent over and ran its finger across the
cheek. “Oh no. There’s a leak. I told you that you were
trying to put too much into this model.”
“That’s not a leak,” God explained. “It’s a tear.”
“What’s it for?”
“It’s for joy, sadness, disappoint, pain, loneliness and
sympathy,” God replied.
“Lord, you are a genius!” the angel exclaimed.
God looked at the angel for a long, sober moment.
“Well, to tell you the truth,” God admitted, I didn’t put it
there.” [Author unknown]
Lon Bechtel, interim pastor
The Voice
May 2011
Page
The Voice
From Our Redeemer’s Lutheran Church
1400 Stuart Street, Helena, MT 59601
406-442-7842
Web site: www.ourredeemerlives.org
The Ministry Team of Our Redeemer’s Church:
All the People of God, along with:
Pastor Lon Bechtel, Interim Lead Pastor
Rev. Kendra Wilde, Associate Pastor
Kathy Olson, Youth & Family Ministries
Dr. Rob Stuberg, Associate in Ministry,
Worship & Arts
Julie Peck, Christian Education
& Preschool Director
Wendy Vukonich, Preschool Teacher
Jennifer Amos, Preschool Teacher
Mary Robertson, Preschool Teacher
David White, Church Administrator
Stacia Denton, Administrative Assistant
Linda Keim, Organist
Julie Peck, Kidz Praise
Dr. Rob Stuberg, Chancel Choir
Joy Novota, Wedding Coordinator
Our Redeemer’s Sister Parishes:
Rietfontein Parish in South Africa
Namaqualand Parish in South Africa
Deadline for monthly Voice articles to
Our Redeemer’s Office:
third Monday of each month
Prayer Teams
Prayer Teams are available
every Sunday morning at both
services during Communion.
At the 9:00 am Service, the
Prayer Teams are available at
the back of the Sanctuary.
At the 10:30 am Service,
there are two Prayer Teams
available—one in the
Prayer Corner, and one in the
front of the Sanctuary.
If you are interested in
being on the Prayer Team,
please contact
Pastor Kendra Wilde
Voice
Articles Due
Monday,
May 16
The Voice
Sunday Evening
Campfire Worship
Starting May 1
6:30 pm
At the outdoor worship space on the
Benton/Green Meadow land which hosts
our new church site!
Bring lawn chairs and marshmallows!
Use the entrance on Green Meadow.
Our Redeemer’s Staff
Phone Number and Email Listing:
Pastor Lon Bechtel
Pastor Kendra Wilde
Rob Stuberg
Julie Peck
Kathy Olson
Stacia Denton
David White
Wendy Vukonich, Preschool (PreK)
Jennifer Amos, Preschool (3’S)
Mary Robertson, Preschool (4’S)
May 2011
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[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
Page 2
Come to the MINISTRY FAIR
Sunday, May 15th 9:30 - 12:30
Blessed with Gifts to Share
S
PRIZE
Game
s
• Come for the FUN of it!
• Learn about scores of exciting ministries at
Our Redeemer’s
• Find out how YOU can serve others
• Discover ways your talents and interests can
be used in Christian ministry
• Hear about opportunities that fit YOUR time
and schedule
• See how God can use people of all ages
Food
Fun for t
he
Whole
Family
Contests
The Voice
May 2011
Page 3
Blessed with Gifts to Share
Serving God by sharing your gifts isn’t a chore if you choose the things you love to do!
What do you enjoy? Mark all that apply to you and add any that might have been missed.
I enjoy…
I have fun...
I’d love to learn about...
I love...
I get excited about...
____ Baking
____ Carpentry
____ Electrical Wiring
____ Cooking
____ Interpreting legal documents
____ Meeting new people
____ Photography
____ Drawing or painting
____ Interior design
____ Acting
____ Graphic design
____ Telephone conversations
____ Knitting or crocheting
____ Playing games
____ Cleaning (housework, dishes, etc)
____ Sewing or quilting
____ Costume/fashion design
____ Getting to know others
____ Scrapbooking or card-making
____ Teaching - lecture-style
____ Recycling/living ‘green’
____ Creative Writing
____ Teaching - discussion
____ Mentoring youth
____ Flower arranging
____ Babysitting
____ Gardening
____ Working with numbers/money
____ Hiking or bicycling
____ Decorating for holidays
____ Caring for those who are ill or have
difficulty getting around
____ Creating visual displays (bulletin
boards, art exhibits, etc)
____ Helping those less fortunate than
myself (in any way)
____ Praying with or for others
____ Studying the Bible
____ Creating computer presentations
____ Singing
____ Flyer/brochure design
____ Creating a personal budget
____ Playing an instrument
____ Analyzing reports/data
____ Carving/wood-working
____ Videography
____ Set design (i.e. drama)
____ Middle-school age children
____ Web design
____ Rafting or fishing
____ Landscape design
____ Data entry
____ Elementary-age children
____ Directing drama productions
____ Inviting others to church
____ Expressing appreciation to others
____ Nursing
____ Snow-skiing or snow-shoeing
____ Plumbing
____ Yardwork (mowing, etc)
____ Discussing or critiquing books, etc
____ Giving presents to others
____ Tithing
____ Brainstorming various topics
____ Organizing space (closets, etc.)
____ Making people laugh
____ Social justice
____ Painting - indoor/outdoor
____ High school age kids
____ Planning parties
____ Working with my hands
____ Reading to others
____ Attending parties
____ Technical writing, editing
_______________________________
Some assistance is needed for worship and office tasks that keep our church healthy. Direction or training will be provided for
all tasks. In which ways might you be willing to occasionally serve? Please mark all that you would consider if asked:
____ Usher
____ Serve communion
____ Read scripture
____ Office assistant (weekdays)
____ Change alter banners and fill candles, etc.
____ Provide cookies for coffee hour
____ Greeter
____ Set up Communion
____ Count offering
____ Funeral Hospitality
Do you have a preference for which worship service you attend and would like to serve?
____ 9 a.m.
____ 10:30 a.m.
Family Promise needs volunteers for our bi-annual week of hosting families. Please check any ways you might be willing to
help:
____ Prepare breakfast and sack lunches
____ Stay overnight
____ Visit with families
____ Set up sleeping quarters
____ Prepare supper
____ Help children with homework
Name ______________________ Phone __________ Email _________________________
The Voice
(First & Last Name)
May 2011
Page 4
Please fill me up!
Have you seen the little white
dresser in the back entry? It is just
waiting for baby clothes, blankets,
disposable diapers, Onesies, and
bibs to fill its drawers. When it is full,
it will be donated to a needy family
with a new baby. Items should be
new or gently used (clean please). A
special thank you to the Goosen
family for donating the dresser! If
you have any questions, please contact Kathy Olson at 442-7842 x205.
Sunday Evening
Campfire Worship
If you happen to be out of town
on Sunday morning this summer,
or are a WOW family, or you just
want to come out for an informal
worship service, come on out to
the land on Sunday evenings all
summer. Starting the Sunday after
Easter, May 1, we will be having
an informal, family-friendly,
evening campfire worship service
at our outdoor worship space out
on our land on Benton/Green
Meadow. Worship will begin at
6:30 pm. There will be guitars,
campfire, interactive sermons,
singing, and Holy Communion.
Following worship there will be
toasted marshies, fun, more
songs, fellowship, more toasted
marshies, and even hot dogs if
your are still hungry (and bring
your own supplies.) Come on out
to the land and worship God all
summer!
The Voice
Episcopal Church Women
Olde English Garden Tea
Saturday, May 14
511 N. Park Ave.
Seatings at
11:30 am & 1:00 pm
Tickets $12
Reservations recommended
Call 422422-8231 (Jackie)
May 2011
Page 5
ELCA DISASTER RESPONSE
RESPONDING TO SPRING STORMS
reaching out to the survivors of these devastating
storms and assessing the needs—working together
for as long as it takes.
Your help is needed today to bring immediate
relief and ongoing support to communities affected
by these disasters. Gifts designated to “U.S.
Floods” or “U.S. Tornadoes” will be used in
full—100 percent—to help disaster survivors
clean-up, rebuild and recover. Donations given to
the undesignated fund help to respond immediately
and effectively where it is needed most. Because of
your generous offerings of prayer and financial support, the ELCA walks alongside disaster survivors
on their long road to recovery. Thank you!
Severe storms have caused major damage in
many parts of the United States this spring. In
areas of Minnesota and North Dakota, overland
flooding of farm fields and rural roads has exceeded past records. Elsewhere, particularly
across the south, tornadoes and heavy rain have
devastated a number of communities.
But in this Easter season, we are reminded of
hope and new life. It is with this hope that the
ELCA leans forward in response to disaster
affected places, helping our sisters and brothers
in need. ELCA Disaster Response is supporting
communities overwhelmed by rising waters and
leveled by destructive winds. Our church is
Yes, I want to help!
ELCA Disaster Response: U.S. Flood Relief
ELCA Disaster Response: U.S. Tornadoes
ELCA Disaster Response: Where Needed Most
$_______DDG0069
$_______DDG0020
$_______DDG0010
Name_________________________________________________________________________
Address_______________________________________________________________________
City ___________________________________State________ ZIP Code_______
E-mail Address_________________________________________________________________
Give through your congregation or send your check directly to:
ELCA Disaster Response, 39330 Treasury
Center, Chicago, IL 60694-9300
Write, “US Floods,” “US Tornadoes”, or “Where
needed most” on your check’s memo line.
The Voice
May 2011
Page 6
Children’s Ministry
Keeping our Promise, we teach children to:
Love God, Love and serve each other, Learn and share God’s story.
Shaping Hearts and Minds
“Create in me a pure heart, O God.” Psalm 51:10
This year, many people have accepted the
call to shape the hearts and minds of young
children that they might grow in their understanding of God’ love and God’s word. God’s
stories are shared through friendships, drama,
music, games, movies, and projects. It is truly a
team effort involving the family and dozens of
teachers, shepherds, and workshop leaders.
Our Sunday School comes to a close on Sunday, May 22 – I’m sure you will join your heart
with mine in thanking all who serve in this most
important ministry!
At the Sunday 9:00 hour: Diedra Murray, Jill
Burger, Amber Lamping, Tami Ellis, Stacy Grimmis, Lori Chase, Linda Michaletz, and Christine
Mulgrew.
At the Sunday 10:30 hour: Cheyanne Hafer,
Nikki Goosen, Caitlin Peaslee, Ashlee Mihelish,
Jennifer Scoles, Jordan Albertson, Debbie Cotton, Valerie McNeil, Lori Walter, Russell and
Duncan Ellis, Kelly Elder, Nathan Riek, Lisa
Qualls, Erinne Ark, Charlotte Hafer, Annette
Sharkey, Harold Bruce, Tracey Tintinger, Mike
and Vonda Dyrdahl, Catherine McNeil, Liz Bacon, Marla and Kyler Maharg, and Bob Calkins.
At Kidz Ed on Wednesdays: Deann Willcut,
Anna Ebert, Harold Bruce, Mark Sather and
Jenny Wade.
Many others have helped by providing
snacks, substitute teaching, or assisting with
special projects and you are deeply appreciated
as well. Those who regularly pray for and encourage us are invaluable. Children’s hearts
and minds are growing! Thanks be to God!
First Communion
Received on
Maundy Thursday
Many students completed an important Faith
Milestone in April as they received their First
Communion. Congratulations! It is our prayer
that each student will continue to grow in faith
and regularly come to the table to be fed and
forgiven.
Congratulations to: Cooper Biegler, Ann
Dodds, Kathryn Fowler,Chelsea Gates, Nathanael Hafer, Bryce Harrington, Rosemary Hemry,
Megan Lindbo, Jamie MacDonald, Treven Maharg, Braxton McCormack, Blake McHugh,
Shawn Moore, Anna Passage, Madison Robertson, Ben Rusek, Marki Jo Sharkey, Marcella
Sim, Alyssa Tompkins, Joseph Wadhams, and
Zachary Wadhams.
---Julie Peck
The Voice
May 2011
Page 7
SonSurf Beach Bash
The Sea, the Sand, the Son!
Vacation Bible School, June 13 – 17, 9:30 – noon
Dude, It’s All About Jesus!
Kids, plan now to attend SONSURF BEACH BASH and bask in the LOVE OF JESUS!
As we imagine ourselves on the seashore, we will explore the wonders of the beach and also discover Big Answers to Big Questions about Jesus. Questions like, “Who is Jesus?” and “Why do we need him?”
Sharon MacMillan(458-1154) and Julie Peck (442-7842 x 210), Co-Directors invite adults, college-age, high school
and middle school youth who love God and enjoy working with children to jump in with both feet and join us for a wonderful week, soaking up the love of Jesus! Give us a call for more information!
Enrollment is open to children who turned 4 by last September 10, 2010, and have attended a year of Sunday School,
through those children who will complete 5th grade this year.
Children are to enroll in the grade level that they are completing this June.
Parents who are involved in teaching or working at VBS will have childcare provided for their younger children
to include, music, stories, indoor & outdoor play, snack, and project time. The children will be divided into two age
groups: 3 – 4 year olds, and age 2 & under.
Please note that registration cards and fees must be turned in by Monday, May 16, in order to ensure placement. Registration is $20.00 per child. Extra forms are available at the church; assistance with the registration fee is available; contact Julie Peck, 442-7842 x 210.
Note to Staff: Very important orientation will be held on Sunday, June 5, at 5:00 pm.
Snack Donations Appreciated
Your donations of snacks are greatly appreciated!
Please bring items to the church by Friday, June 3.
Thank You!
String Cheese Sticks
Wheat thin crackers
2 Dozen Cookies
Red or green grapes
Pretzel Sticks or Sm. Knots
Plain M & M’s & Mini-Marshmallows
Gold Fish or Cheez-its
Rice Krispie Treats(pre-pkged)
Del Monte Fruit Cups
Apple or White Grape Juice
Unsweetened Lemonade Kool-Aid
Sugar
Gallon size Ziploc Bags
The Voice
May 2011
Page 8
Meditations for
Our Hearts and Minds
By Pastor Kendra Wilde
Keep the Sabbath: Go Wander!
(Though not everywhere)
Word of the Month
Philosopher Kathleen Dean Moore in River Walking talks about the art of
“poking around." Children are often best at it: discovering, wandering
around looking at stuff, trying stuff. Children learn how to use new electronic devices by poking around in them while adults want instructions.
Poking around is a Sabbath type of thing, like Sunday drives, when you
don't know where you are going. Sabbath walks are like that – poking
around to see what is under that rock or what is around the next corner. Nature is good for poking around. So are libraries and museums.
Not all poking around is good for the soul. Part of the allure of the internet
is that it is an endless place to poke around. Sabbath keeping is a spiritual
discipline, after all, and it does take discipline, including knowing where
not to go, which stone to leave unturned, which link to leave unclicked, and
when to turn away and go back to work, or go to bed.
Dare to Be Hopeful
“The opposite of faith is not doubt but fear.”
-John McMurray
Expectations shape what we experience. This is how the placebo effect
works, which is a substantial part of how many medications and other treatments work. For example, people who expect a pain killer to work enhance
the effect of the external drug by having their brains release its own pain
killer. People who expect that others will like them act more confidently
with others than those who have negative expectations.
επί Κοµός: Greek
Translated As: afikomen, “that
which comes last”
Significance:
The afikomen is the matzah (the
unleavened bread of the Passover
Seder meal) that is hidden and
used for dessert. In Greek, it is
translated as “that which comes
last.” For Christians it is a symbol
of the resurrection of Jesus, the
Messiah, and his promise that he
will again return to earth on the
last day. Although Jesus was crucified on the day after Passover, he
rose again on Easter morning and
later ascended to his Father in
heaven. Jesus will one day return
again in victory and we wait for his
return. That day will be the true
afikomen—“that which comes
last.”
Pearls of Wisdom
“Charity is no substitute for justice
withheld.”
-St. Augustine
But many of us are afraid of having positive expectations since we fear it
will set us up for disappointment. The strategy of “expect the worst” to create emotional cushioning, has been tested for its value in helping us actually
deal with disappointments. The results actually indicate that expecting the
worst makes dealing with disappointment even harder. It backfires. And it
handicaps us in our ability to help create a good outcome.
The answer to disappointment is not expectations; it is what we have invested in the outcome, what we feel is at stake. The problem is the belief
that our happiness or wellbeing depends on the outcome. That is what
makes us afraid of being hopeful. So when we are too afraid to be hopeful,
the answer is to question what we believe is at stake, which helps us realize
we can deal with any outcome.
Dare to be hopeful.
The Voice
May 2011
Page 9
Ask the Worship Guy
~ Dr. Rob Stuberg, AiM, Director of Worship and Arts
Q: What are the biggest misconceptions people have about worship?
A: I don’t know if these are the biggest misconceptions, but they seem to be two areas that are often
misunderstood about Lutheran worship, probably because not all Christians agree in these areas, and
there seems to be quite a bit of “cross pollination”
from different denominations and traditions. While not
exclusive to Lutheran theology and understanding, I
believe I am reflecting both a personal and Lutheran
viewpoint. One might say these are two of the pillars
on which I stand.
The first misunderstanding is regarding who the
“audience” is in worship. I think we all know that the
audience in true worship is God. And we know worship isn’t a meeting where we talk about God and
about ministry and do the business of the church. And
we know that just because something is about God or
the ministry of the church—although good— doesn’t
mean it is worship. We know this, but it is hard to live
out because worship is mystery and is of things that
are not fully revealed to us. And it is easier and more
comfortable to talk about God than it is to worship
God, so we often revert to what is comfortable and
understandable.
If we believe that God is truly present with
us in worship through the Holy Spirit, and
we believe Jesus is present in the Sacrament of Holy Communion, then we ought
not talk about God like God
isn’t in the room.
So, you may ask, what about the announcements,
mission moments and business we do at the beginning of the service? Of course those things are necessary, and that’s why we intentionally do the business before we begin worship, and you will notice an
obvious difference between the congregation’s business and the assembly’s worship. You will also notice that once the “business” of the church is over and
worship begins, with the exception of the Creed, there
are very few words said during worship that are
“people-to-people” but rather are prayer to God, or
are the gospel from God to us.
What? From us to God and from God to us? When
and how does that happen? Yes, this is where the
mystery part comes in, because God is not only the
The Voice
Audience of worship, but God is also the Director.
Through the Spirit, God calls us from our everyday
lives to worship. We pray and sing praise to God,
and even anthems and special music—although they
can be entertaining, especially when there are small
children involved—–are praises to God on the behalf
of the assembly.
And God also speaks to us—in the proclamation of
God’s Good News, in the hearing of scripture, in
God’s message of gospel and truth through the pastor’s sermon, in the Sacrament of Holy Communion,
and in God’s Spirit who calls, gathers, enlightens and
sanctifies.
The second misunderstanding is with regard to the
term, “the body of Christ.” So here is my mantra:
“The Body of Christ” is not a metaphor.
Firstly, “the body of Christ” is not a metaphor for
the bread of Holy Communion. It’s not a symbol of the
suffering of Christ on the cross. For me personally,
and in the Lutheran tradition (and of course several
other Christian traditions,) when we receive the bread
in Holy Communion we receive the body of Jesus
Christ. We don’t know how. We don’t have a word for
it. We don’t try to explain it. And we hang this mystery
on one particular word that we take quite literally: “is.”
“This IS my body, given for you.” Yes, it would be
quite a bit easier to believe that the bread is simply a
symbol of Jesus love for us. It is much more difficult
to embrace a mystery that somehow Jesus is truly
present with us.
Secondly, “the body of Christ” is not a metaphor
for the “members” of the church. In the Lord’s Supper,
the Body of Christ physically enters us and becomes
part of us, and we, the church, are Christ’s body. It
would be easier to embrace the “body” as a nice illustration, but somehow in God’s mystery it is literally
true. The church, you and me, are the only hands and
feet and voice—the only body of Christ in the world.
We are Christ to the world, which comes with great
responsibility. I only hope and pray that the world
sees the Christ that is in us.
Do you have a question for The Worship Guy? Call, write or email your
question to [email protected].
May 2011
Page 10
NO Meeting on May 2
We have learned that we will not be a host congregation in May, June or July and have decided to postpone our all volunteer meeting on May 2 until we know what our assigned week will be.
Several Lay Leaders in Place
We have engaged several people in serving in leadership roles for Family Promise:
Craig Linke and Carolee Stuberg: Family Promise Volunteer Coordinators
Team Captains
Carl Tanberg: finances
Ron and Marian Paulson: evening hosts
Karie Shelton and Colleen Grass: meals
Kathy Olson: donations coordinator
Erich and Sandy Merdinger: set-up and take-down
Jeff and Jan Martin: over-night hosts
Kathy Schenck: communications
?: purchasing and inventory
?: recreation
?: janitorial
Thank you to all who have offered their leadership thus far. If you feel called to fill in those “?” areas of leadership, please contact
Carolee or Craig.
Making ORLC More Homelike for Our Guests
As we prepare to host our guests, we will need the following supplies:
• Games
• Paper, crayons
• Children’s books
• Alarm clocks
• Bean bag chairs
• Lunch and sandwich bags
• Puzzles
• Facial tissues
• Twin sheets
• Twin mattress pads
• Crib sheets for a pack and play
• Pillow cases
Please contact Kathy Olson, 442-7842, X 205 if you are able to donate any of the above. Thank you!
Wondering where we are going to store all of this stuff? Check out the newly renovated closet space by the east door. Thanks to
the hard work of Wayne Weikart for transforming this space for us!
A Family Promise Story from Bozeman
I think the families we assist tell their stories the best. The following is from a letter we received from a past guest who was with our
program last winter. He had lost his home, and was scared, embarrassed and had no where to go. Here is his story:
“How am I going to go home and tell my wife, and even worse, tell my two boys? Then I got a phone call that truly changed
my life…she wanted me to know about this program called Family Promise… After telling my wife and children the news and
the new “plan” we entered the Family Promise program. This is where Family Promise changed not only my life but my entire
family’s as well. I have never been happier, no it was not easy at times, but I have met people that truly are good, not just smile
and act happy, but through and through good to the core people. I do not think I could possibly recount everything that family
promise did for us… the countless and tireless families and volunteers for this program. They provided more than anything the
unrelenting positive support that truly made me feel like a useful person… My family was treated like royalty, and we have all
made friends that we will treasure always. ... So in trying to sum up how I feel about the program, I have to say, I am grateful
everyday that I became homeless, because if I had not, I might never have been introduced to the Family promise program and
to the family that my family has been invited into - although I have been told that becoming a volunteer is easier than becoming
homeless to become part of the program. So you might want to try that route!” - Thomas (name changed)
Thomas and his family successfully completed the Family Promise program in 58 days. During this time they met with a financial
counselor, saved their income, and secured permanent housing. They are now renting to own a Belgrade condo. Their children are
secure, and Thomas and his wife are happy. Thomas now serves on our board of directors and is “giving back” by volunteering with
other homeless families. That's what I call success!
The Voice
May 2011
Page 11
Humbled by a Moment
By: David White, Church Administrator
Recently I had the pleasure of participating
in a very humbling experience. Truly, I was
blessed. On Monday, April 11 Senior
Moments took place at Our Redeemer’s
Lutheran Church. The event was a wonderful
celebration in the life of Senior Moments
founder Adeline Settle. Many were in
attendance and it was quite endearing to
witness the many beautiful faces. I had the
pleasure of being invited to play piano and sing
a few traditional hymns such as Old Rugged
Cross and How Great Thou Art. In the midst of
it all I was literally humbled by the love, the
grace, and the embodiment of Our
Redeemer’s Lutheran Church Seniors.
Senior Moments for April, 2011 will be long
remembered by many and deeply remembered
by me. I am certain as long as I shall live it will
remain bright in my memory. It truly was a
blessing to see the faces of Doris Kranich,
Gladys Pearce, Pearl Olden, Julius and
Carmen Christianson and many others. As I
looked around the room at all the glorious
smiles, and all the tables lined with hats owned
by Adeline Settle I began to wonder. I
imagined the many places perhaps they had
been; both the people and the hats. At first my
attention was drawn to the hats. Many of the
hats were slightly similar, but different
nonetheless. And other hats were exceedingly
different from the others. Some had feathers
and designs whereas others were embraced in
solid colors. I was struck by the comparison of
these beautiful unique hats with the folks
surrounding them. Not only was the event an
honorarium to Ad Settle, but in a sense it was
a moment for someone like me to witness
where life can take you. Again I was humbled
to witness uniqueness and diversity encircled
by a shared love for Christ. You see, after I
played a few songs I had a brief opportunity to
visit and interact with those in attendance.
The Voice
Immediately as my attention was taken
away from the hats, and fully invested into the
people, I began to imagine some more. Oh, the
stories I bet they could tell. The places they’ve
been, the experiences they’ve had, and the
struggles they’ve endured. These are the folks
that have made Our Redeemer’s what it is
today. These folks are the ones that have
made our wonderful city of Helena and our
treasured state of Montana what it has become.
Some of them have been married longer than
I’ve been alive. That alone is incredible in itself,
a true inspiration.
As I go through my life I am frequently
reminded of how much I have yet to learn. For
instance, while directly in the middle of the start
of our new church, I am reminded that the
backbone of the earthly soul of Our Redeemer’s
Lutheran Church exists within the founding
members. Folks like Ad Settle, of Senior
Moments helped build our foundation. Gladys
Pearce went door to door over 50 years ago to
invite others to Christ and to this day she’s still
a witness. Right now, at this very moment, we
are literally building a new foundation, a
physical foundation for a future home of Our
Redeemer’s on N. Benton Avenue. What an
opportunity this is for many of us. This is our
chance to be a part of something much larger
than ourselves, much more meaningful than our
everyday life. We get to follow in the footsteps
of those before us and we get to honor them
along the way. What a blessing we have been
given to be humbled by a moment analogous to
Christ’s Vision and Grace on earth.
May 2011
Page 12
Life in the Congregation
Baptism:
Elizabeth Ann Wanjiku Maina, daughter of Jenny
and George Kariuki, who was baptized at the Saturday
Easter Vigil, April 23, 2011.
Do you Feel Called to Prayer?
Please contact Roberta Carey at 443-4296 or at
[email protected] if you would like to
participate in the phone or email prayer chain.
Dayna Marie Willcut, daughter of Deann and Justin
Willcut, who was baptized at the Saturday Easter Vigil,
April 23, 2011.
Confirmed, May 1, 2011:
9:00 am: Ashlee Hanson, Bethany Lindner, Valerie
McNeil, Ravyn Frey,, Kayla Pocha, Ally Sather, Bryce
Beley, Jordan Erb, Michael Olson, Lexie Reddig, Jordan Young, Perriann Bushlen
10:30 am: Jason Cummings, Cameron Dole, Cheyanne Hafer, Tanner McLaury, Skylar Rispens, Jocelyn
Gates, Madeline Miller, Mariah Swenson, Irene
Thamke, Casey Ebelt, Matthew Heldt, Evan Sampson,
Matthew Vukonich
Memorials:
We have received such an outpouring of generosity,
kindness, and love for the members of our congregation who have recently passed away that there is not
enough room in the Voice to name each donor! Thank
you for your graciousness and honor to those you held
dear. Each memorial will show on your quarterly
statements for recording purposes.
Come to the Water
Baptism Class
Wednesday, May 4 at 5:30 pm
Wednesday, June 15 at 5:30 pm
Please join us!
Current Ministry Funding Report for March - 2011
Ministry Funding Goal
Total Ministry Funding Received
Funds ABOVE Goal
$46,665.00
48,696.83
2,031.83
Total Ministry Expenses
Total Ministry Funding Received
$56,465.75
48,696.83
With Thanks:
IMAGINE GOAL:
PLEDGES TO DATE:
GIVEN TO DATE:
Thanks to Terry Maier for repairing the back splash
over the downstairs kitchen sink...it looks great.
$1,250,000
$ 534,000
$ 134,358
FLATHEAD LUTHERAN BIBLE CAMP
SCHOLARSHIPS
WELCA will offer a scholarship to any student in the
congregation who needs financial assistance to attend Bible Camp this summer. Applications are
available at the Information Desk and should be
submitted to the church office.
Please send marriage, birth, death, graduations, etc. to Stacia in the church office or
email [email protected].
The Voice
May 2011
Page 13
MAY
2011
We conclude our nine-month series, “The People of God: Unity in the Midst of Diversity,” with the
May study entitled, “Witnessing and Evangelism,” where we will learn that the people of God blossom in their faith journey as they realize they can make an impact on the world. Visitors and new
members are always welcome!
Monthly Meetings…
Dorcas Circle: Tuesday, May 17 at 9:30 am
Rebecca Circle: Wednesday, May 18 at 1:00 pm
Evening Bible Study: Monday, May 23 at 7:00 pm at the home of Elaine Heen, 320 Graham
The WELCA Board: Tuesday, May 10 at 9:30 am
Quilting for Lutheran World Relief: Tuesdays at 9:00 am
Sew in Love Service Group: Thursdays at 9:00 am
Celebrate Springtime
The Annual Spring Tea
Sunday, May 15 2011
2:30 pm
Bring your mom, sisters, and friends and join us for an afternoon of food and fun! There will be special music,
door prizes, good conversations and great friends! Also, enjoy a variety of traditional tea party fare! Sign-up
sheets are in the Lower Fellowship Hall and on the Information Desk. Hurry! Make your reservation by May 13!
Lutheran World Relief
We from Our Redeemer’s send: Quilts, Personal Care Kits
(Health Kits)
One light or medium-weight bath-size towel (size 52” x
27”)
Two bath-size bars of soap (4-5 oz.), any brand, in original wrapping
One adult-size toothbrush in it’s original packaging
One sturdy comb, remove packaging.
One metal nail clippers, remove packaging.
Baby Care Kits (Layettes) (infant to 24 months)
Two lightweight cotton t-shirts
Two long or short sleeved gowns or sleepers (without
feet)
Two receiving blankets, medium-weight cotton or flannel
or crocheted or knitted with lightweight yarn to 52”
square
Four cloth diapers flat fold preferred
The Voice
One jacket, sweater or sweatshirt with a hood, or include
baby cap
Two pairs of socks
Two bath-size bars (4 or 5 oz.) gentle soap, in original
wrapping
Two diaper pins or large safety pins
One hand towel, dark color recommended
Do not add other items or leave out any of the items listed.
Gently used, clean items (not stains or tears) can be substituted for new ones. Wrap items in one of the receiving blankets and secure with diaper pins. DO NOT enclose the kit or
any of contents in plastic bags.
Bob & Bernice Stulc will again be picking up our kits here in
Helena on May 20, 2011.
Quilters need: Fabric, old blankets, drapes, filler and thread,
etc. Quilt size is 60”x80”
May 2011
Page 14
Highlights
candidates at this time.
April 19, 2011
Member Connect Presentation
Stacia Denton offered training on the church council Member
Connect webpage. The council page is currently set up as a
private site but there was discussion to make it available to the
congregation. If was felt that this may serve as a good way to
communicate with the congregation if it is made public. Stacia
has requested that the council study the new website and
assist her by answering some written questions before the
next council meeting. Clayton Schenck, Carol Will and Pastor
Kendra Wilde will act as administrators of the site.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help us to turn our worries and anxieties over
to you. Let us put our faith and trust in you. Amen.
Approve Agenda
The council unanimously approved the agenda as presented.
There was one correction in the Administrative Report from
David White (loan approval for $2,231,000).
MTIF Report
Clayton Schenck is preparing to sign the loan papers for the
church building, but explained that we are being required to
sign for a loan of $2.2 million. $2.6 million was approved at
the Annual Congregational Meeting. The MTIF committee
feels we may not need more than the $1.6 million and will work
with Mission Builders and volunteers to keep the costs down.
Council members present unanimously approved Council
Resolution # 2011-2 (Approval of Building Loan). Because of
lack of a quorum, Clayton will email those council members
not in attendance to get their vote. (April 22, 2011 – through
email, 4 yes, 1 no votes)
Financial Committee Report
Mark Huber reported that offerings for the first three months
(13 Sundays) totaled $132,538 compared to $133,272 for the
first three months of 2010. The church’s balance sheet
remains liquid as March month end with $40,073 in unreserved
checking account and an additional $26,456 in the Money
Market fund. Our operating expenses for the first three
months of this year totaled $125,349 so after adjusting for
some other small revenues, total operating income through
March exceeds total operating expenses by $8,980. Operating
expenses are about $9,500 below what we have budgeted, on
an annualized basis and a primary reason for this has been
the savings resulting from Pastor Lon working ¾ time versus
full time during the first quarter of this year. The first 13
Sundays of offerings would result in annual undesignated
giving of $530,152 versus a plan of $555, 252. It should be
noted that giving in the first three months is usually below the
overall yearly average and that a significant portion of giving
comes at Easter as well as Christmas.
Call Committee Report
Because Dave Swenson was at an interview with a
prospective candidate for lead pastor, he was unable to attend
tonight’s council meeting and share a Call Committee report.
Clayton did report that the call committee is excited about
interviewing this candidate, but do have two other viable
The Voice
ORLC Family Promise Commitment
Clayton Schenck reported that the Family Promise program
is still looking for a facility to serve as their Day Use Center.
They are interested in using Hebrews House and although
the property is for sale, they would be willing to do some
basic remodeling for their use. This could include adding a
second bathroom and installing hookups for a washer and
dryer. Clayton suggested offering the use of Hebrews
House to Family Promise rent free. The council members
in attendance unanimously approved that. Because of lack
of a quorum, Clayton will email those council members not
in attendance to get their vote. (April 22, 2011 – through
email, 4 yes, 1 no vote)
Ministry Fair Update
Clayton Schenck reported that flyers have been sent out to
church leaders advertising the May 15th Ministry Fair.
Colleen Grass has taken the lead on this event. The
church council would like to set up tables for several
ministries and the following individuals have offered to help:
Congregational Care Ministry – Darbie Hess
Stewardship Ministry – Clayton Schenck
People Assimilation – Mark Huber
Evangelism Ministry – Kevin Matthew
Clayton will find others to help with Fellowship
Ministry and Community Outreach.
Those working these tables will meet before the fair to
discuss exactly what we want to convey to the
congregation through the fair. Pastor Kendra has many
resources we may use.
Council/MTIF Governing Structure
Clayton Schenck reported that MTIF is comprised of
various teams, including a Vision Team. There is concern
that MTIF will be so busy with the church building that they
may need a council member on the Vision Team to help
with visioning for future campaigns. Clayton volunteered to
serve as the council representative on MTIF.
Grant Request for Volunteer Coordinator
Lorene Harris has completed a grant request to Thrivent
Financial for Lutherans for the start up for a Volunteer
Coordinator position. This is not a long term way to open
up a volunteer coordinator position and we would need to
get congregational support to continue the position. We
are uncertain when we will hear back from Thrivent
concerning the awarding of the grant.
2011 Montana Synod Assembly Representatives
The 2011 Montana Synod Assembly will be held June 3-5
in Great Falls. We still need delegates to attend the
assembly. Clayton Schenck offered to serve as a delegate
and he will find two others to attend. This year’s assembly
will be a business meeting and will focus on service.
The meeting was closed in prayer.
Respectfully submitted, Darbie Hess
May 2011
Page 15
May 2011
Sun
1
8
15
22
29
Mon
2
9
16
23
30
Tue
3
10
17
24
31
Wed
4
11
18
25
9:00 am
Sunday, May 1
Captains
Assistants
Lay Reader
Acolyte
Usher
All areas
Lay Reader
Acolyte
Greeters
Ushers
All areas
Lay Reader
Acolyte
Larry and Delores Rosin
Ardell Nelson
Bill and Ruth Straley
Larry and Delores Rosin
Will and Isabelle Mavis
Don or Clayton Schenck
8th Grade Confirmands
Captains
Assistants
Greeters
Greeter/Usher
Lay Reader
Acolyte
Erich Merdinger
Charlene and Jerry Mayala
Jeff and Jan Martin
Ingrid Childress
Ken and Sharlene Kolb
Roy Hemry
Bob DenHerder
Glenn and Janet Erickson
Lynn Voss
Matthew Richards/
Claire Brosten
Jim and Joan Haubein
Jim and Joan Haubein
Alice and Al Siewert
Thea Swenson
Scott and Lori Walter
Linda Gaughan
Pat Lumma
Norm Rognlie
Bob DenHerder
Clayton Schenck
Bruce and Judy McMaster
Kate Elhart (May 15),
Rick Elhart (May 29)
Phoenix Mulgrew/
Nadria McCormack (May 15),
McKenzie Grimmis/
Naomi Mulgrew (May 29)
Lay Reader
Acolyte
The Voice
Mark and Beth Barry
Mark and Beth Barry
Jodi Aschim
Steve and Julie Ackerlund
Marie Rauch
8th Grade Confirmands
Sunday, May 8
Captains
Assistants
Greeters
Ushers
Lay Reader
Acolyte
_____________________
Carl Tanberg
Othelia Schultz
Lorene Harris
Diana Koch
Marie Rauch
Jack and Lynette Avery
Dan Rispens
Madison Robertson/
Alyssa Magee
Sunday, May 15 and May 29
Captains
Assistants
Greeters
Lay Reader
Acolyte
Marie Rauch
Ron Zellar
Marie Rauch
Kayme May
Dave and Lori Swenson
Clint and Mona Erb
Verna Strand
Norm Midtlyng
Ron Zellar (May 15)
Verna Strand (May 29)
Faith Ebert/Kailey Logan
(May 15),
Cory Preshinger/
Brock McDaid (May 29)
Sunday, May 22
Captains
Assistants
Sunday, May 22
Captains
Communion Assistants
Greeter/Usher
Sat
7
14
21
28
10:30 am
Sunday, May 15 and May 29
Captains
Communion Assistants
Fri
6
13
20
27
Sunday, May 1
Sunday, May 8
Captains
Communion Assistants
Greeters
Thu
5
12
19
26
Ray Read
Ben Spiger, Ron Paulson
Gordon Blomquist
Ken Neumiller
John MacKinnon
Ray Read
Ron Paulson
Ingrid Childress
Zachary McHugh/
Braxton McCormack
Greeters
Ushers
Lay Reader
Acolyte
May 2011
_____________________
Chris May
Shannon Voss
Terry Grass
Mary Kay Linke
Gary and Luci Pearson
Chris Olson
Craig, Baird, and Sawyer
Linke
Carl Tanberg
Ed Thamke
Kailey McMillan/
Alyssa Plant
Page 16
Can You Help
Sponsor a Mission Team Member?
Our 3rd trip to Heart Butte! I am really excited to return again and see old friends and meet new ones!
I remember our first trip to Heart Butte. We had 5 people.
This year we have 26. Isn't that remarkable? The registration for our week-long mission trip is $288.00 per student.
For several of our youth this amount presents a hardshipespecially those who have two family members participating.
Would you consider helping a youth to serve on the Blackfeet Reservation this summer by providing either a full or a
partial scholarship? Checks can be made to Our Redeemer’s. Please specify Blackfeet Reservation Scholarship. Thank you for helping a young person to experience a
life-changing service opportunity!
Senior Road Trip
Blackfeet mission team meeting Sunday, June 12, in
the Lower Fellowship Hall. Bring your folders and
your lunch.
Christian “Taran” Denning - Taran graduated as a
Valedictorian of Helena High School. His parents are
Chris & Melanie Denning and sister, Brianna. Taran’s
achievements and activities/interests include - Best Foot
Forward recipient, 2-time recipient of the American Legion
award, member of National Honor Society, two time recipient of the Academic All-State Award, Academic Letter
recipient (2), 2011 HEF Distinguished Achiever Award,
Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) Good Citizen Award, member of 2010 State of MT AA Champion
Soccer Team, participant in track, soccer and basketball,
middle school Basketball Coach (2 yrs), Voted; HHS 2011
Class’ “Most Involved, Class Clown and Biggest Flirt,”
MTAD (Mentoring Teens Against Drugs) President &
member, Link Crew leader at Helena High and nominee
for the Department of Justice, “Mentor of the Year” Award.
Taran has been a member of Our Redeemers since birth
and has served the church as a lay reader, usher, prayer
team member, High School small group leader, mission
team member to Vancouver, BC-Canada and Heart Butte,
Montana Indian Reservation, Church Council youth representative and Thrivent Chapter Board member. Taran is a
recipient of the Reagent Scholarship at Gonzaga University where he plans to study pre-medicine.
June 8-10, 2011
Graduating Seniors, you are invited to
make some memories, spend precious
time with one another, share hopes and
dreams for your future and have a BLAST . We will be staying at Lutherhaven Camp on Lake Coeur d’ Alene, spending a day at Silverwood Amusement Park and generally having an insanely good time! ! The cost of the trip is $148.00
and includes all meal’s, lodging and admission to Silverwood. (You may wish to bring along some additional spending money.) To register or to ask questions, please call
Kathy Olson at 431-8686.
Graduation Banquet
A special banquet honoring our graduating
high school seniors is being planned for Sunday,
May 22 at 5:00 pm in the Lower Fellowship Hall.
Graduates, family and friends are invited to an
evening of great food, entertainment and a time to
share memories. The cost of the dinner is $12.00
per person with the graduate’s dinner being paid
for as a gift from our congregation. Reservations
required. Call Kathy O. at 442-7842.
MEET THE GRADUATES
We would like to highlight several of our
graduating seniors in each of The Voice publications through June. Could you please help by
providing some information? Please include any
noteworthy accomplishments, future plans, etc.
The rest of the congregation would enjoy learning about you
and your plans for the future. Please e-mail your information
to [email protected].
The Voice
May 2011
Katelyn Will - Katelyn is the daughter of Todd and Carol
Will and is a graduate of Capital High School. Katelyn is
actively involved in Safehouse and is currently serving on
the student leadership team. She is a member of the National Honor Society, manager of the high school swim
team, and is involved in swimming, volleyball and track.
She was named Academic All-State for swimming and is
Co-President of MTAD (Montana Teens Against Drugs).
She plants to attend MSU in the fall and major in Human
Health and Development.
Connor Jacob Langel - Connor will be graduating from
Capital High School. He is the son of Jan and Dawn Langel. Connor participated in football and track all 4 years of
high school. In football, senior year, he received an Academic All-State award, Second Team All-Conference
(Safety) and was voted Defensive Back MVP by his teammates. Connor will be attending UM Western in Dillon this
fall. He will be playing football and studying Fish and
Wildlife Management.
Thank You!
My heart is filled to overflowing with awe and
thanksgiving as I look back over the past
year of youth ministries here at Our Redeemer’s. Those ministries could not have
happened without the dozens of volunteers
who share their gifts, their time, their creativity, their wisdom and their passion every week in this place. As our
year comes to an end, I would like to say a heartfelt thank
you to all of the WOW Guides, High School Adult leaders
Thank You cont. on next page)
Page 17
(Thank You cont. from previous page)
and student leaders who serve as mentors and guides
each week at WOW and Safehouse. Thank you to Rob
for his faith-filled leadership of the WOW music team.
Thank you to both Pastor Lon and Pastor Kendra for
their presence at WOW this year and for mentoring
and guiding the students through the Confirmation
process. To both Pastor Kendra and Tami Darlow for
their wise, creative and insightful teachings and to
Faye Ann Cummings for the many ways that she
served during and after WOW. Thank you to Lori
Swenson and Lynette Avery for sharing your organizational gifts, creativity and love with the WOW students
as our WOW Administrators. Thank you to the families
who provided meals for the WOW team and staff on
Wednesday nights. And thank you to the Our Redeemer’s family for your faithful commitment to raising
up faithful and faith-filled young adults.
-Kathy Olson
SERVANT NIGHT
4:00-8:00 PM
Help build our new youth space! Meet on the
church land at 4:00pm. Bring work gloves and wear
close-toed shoes. We will work until 6:30pm and
then have a bonfire and wiener roast. Let’s make a
joyful noise! Guitars and percussion instruments
welcome!
This summer, there will
be a new worship opportunity on Sunday evenings at
6:30pm. Casual campfire
style worship on the land.
There will even be marshmallows! Bring your guitar!
Musicians welcome!
END OF SCHOOL
CELEBRATION!
LADIES ONLY!
Wednesday, June 1
High school students, you are invited to a party at
St Paul’s Methodist Church. Enjoy a barbeque, music,
door prizes, dunking booth, sumo wrestling, air jumper,
human shaving cream slides and more. Meet at St.
Paul’s at 6:00 pm.
SUMMER IS A GREAT
TIME TO INVITE A
FRIEND TO SAFEHOUSE!
Lock in!
June 24
7:00 pm
Bring your sleeping bag, a pillow, sleepwear,
snacks and beverages to share, $5.00 for pizza and
a friend! We’ll play Capture the Flag in the dark with
Nerf Guns! How wild is that? Bring your favorite
board games and church appropriate movies.
Note: We can’t have a lock-in without adult volunteers who are willing to take a shift. Please
recruit adult chaperones!
The Voice
Are you anxious for school to be out… and
ready to get your summer going? Kick it off (early!)
with a weekly Ladies Night! Every Thursday evening starting May 19 through August 11, anyone
from the ages of 13 - 19 are invited to meet at 7
pm to share life together. From cooking a fivecourse meal (heck yeah!) to going on an adventure, we’ll have a great time-- and by the end of the
summer you’ll gain friendships and memories with
a community of AWESOME ladies.
Make sure to show up May 19 , 7 pm at
Hebrews House to pitch in ideas for our summer
plans, though it’s open door policy all summer long
- it’s summer, for goodness’ sakes!
Questions, comments or concerns? Contact
Kassi Putnam at 406-465-3490, or Kathy Olson at
406-431-8686. (Note: We are looking for anyone
19+ to serve as hosts/leaders for the summer…
the only requirement is that you must be young…
at heart! ☺)
May 2011
Page 18
WASSUP?
SUMMER 2011
SAFEHOUSE SUMMER
STYLE
High School Youth
Sun., May 1 CONFIRMATION
Wed., May 4 BOWLING
[6:30 pm] Bowling at Sleeping Giant Lanes.
Bring $5.00 for bowling and additional money for
snacks if desired.
Wed., May 11 LEADERSHIP DINNER
[6:00 pm] Leadership Appreciation Dinner at
Kathy’s House. Evaluation and appreciation night
for student leaders and adult mentors. Regular
Safehouse will not meet tonight.
Sun., May 15 MISSION TEAM MEETING
[12:30 pm] We will listen to a group of YouthWork
alumni sharing their experience from previous
mission trips. Bring your lunch!
Wed., May 18 SERVANT NIGHT
[4:00-8:00 pm] Help Build our new Youth Space.
Meet on the land at 4:00 pm. Bring work gloves
and wear closed-toed shoes. We will work until
6:00 pm and then have a bonfire and wiener
roast. Let’s make a joyful noise! Guitars and
percussion instruments welcome!
Sun., May 22 GRADUATION BANQUET
[5:00 pm] A wonderful evening to celebrate our
graduates with video, pictures, music, dinner
and more. Seniors and their families will be
served a catered dinner. All youth are asked to
attend and serve the meal as well as offer love
and remembrances to our seniors. Pizza will
be ordered for the servers. Cost of the catered
dinner is $12.00 per person. The senior’s
dinner is provided as a gift from Our
Redeemer’s.
Wed., May 25 MOVIE NIGHT
[6:30-9:00 pm]-To Save a Life. Come and
watch this really great movie. Then we will all
walk over to the Dairy Queen for dessert. Bring
The Voice
$$ for your favorite sundae or milkshake.
Wed., June 1 END OF SCHOOL CELEBRATION!
[6:00 pm] You are invited to a party at St. Paul’s
Methodist Church. Enjoy a barbeque, music, door
prizes, dunking booth, sumo wrestling, air jumper,
human shaving cream slides and more. Meet at St
Paul’s at 6:00 pm. I will meet you there!
Sat., June 4
HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION
Congratulations Seniors!
Wed., June 8 - Fri., June 10 SENIOR ROAD
TRIP!!
Graduates, We’re going to Silverwood!
What to bring? Where will we stay? What will the
costs be? An invitation with all of the information
you need will be arriving in your mailboxes soon!
Sun., June 12 MISSION TEAM MEETING
[12:30 pm] Bring your lunch.
June 13-17 VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL!
Helpers Needed! Please sign up to teach, help with
games, work in the kitchen or crafts or the nursery
or on the music team. Be a mentor. Be a friend?
Be a light in the life of a child! Contact Julie Peck to
volunteer.
Fri., June 24 LOCK IN!
[7:00 pm Fri. to 9:00 am Sat.] At the church. Bring
sleeping bag, pillow, sleep wear, snacks and
beverages to share, $5.00 for pizza and a friend!
Capture the flag in the dark, Nerf guns, movies,
snacks. Bring your favorite board games and church
appropriate movies.
Note: We can’t have a lock-in without adult
volunteers who are willing to take a shift. Please
recruit adult chaperones!
Wed., June 29 SERVANT NIGHT
[4:00 - 8:00 pm] Help Build our new Youth Space.
Meet on the land at 4:00 pm. Bring work gloves and
wear close-toed shoes. We will work until 6:00 pm and
then have a bonfire and wiener roast. Let’s make a
joyful noise! Guitars and percussion instruments
welcome!
May 2011
Page 19
Fri., July 8 - Sat., July 9 CAMPING TRIP TO
VIGILANTE CAMPGROUND
[4:00 pm] Meet at HeBrews House.
Remember to bring: flashlight, sleeping bag,
pillow, bug spray, towel, jacket, lawn chair,
cards, games, guitars, hiking shoes, swim
suit. A tent, if you have one-but not
necessary. Last but not least, snacks and
beverages to share. We will return on
Saturday afternoon before dinner. NeededAdults to help with transportation. We would
love to have them stay and camp with us too!
Sun., July 10 MISSION TEAM MEETING
[12:30 pm] Bring your lunch.
Aug. 14 -19 ORLC WEEK AT FLBC
Pastor Kendra and Kathy are at camp! We’d
love for you to join us! Again, if you want to plan
an event at Hebrews, in a park or at your home
during this week, AWESOME! Let me know, I
will advertise it for you!
Wed., Aug 24 PROGRESSIVE DINNERKATHY’S FAVORITE!
[5:00 pm] Meet At HeBrews House. We will
travel from house to house sampling delicious
courses and will end up at HeBrews for dessert.
Needed-Volunteers to host! Would you be willing
to serve appetizers, soup and salad, main
course? Please contact Kathy Olson.
Wed., July 13 EVENING AT THE LAKE
[4:00PM] Meet at HeBrews House to travel to
Lakeside for a night on the beach. Bring
swimsuits, towels, bug spray, water toys and
snacks and beverages to share with the
group. Needed: Adult drivers. Wish ListParents who would bring their boats out to
Lakeside for the evening.
Fri., July 22 - Fri., July 29
BLACKFEET MISSION TRIP
July 31 - Aug. 11 KATHY ON VACATION
If anyone wants to plan a game of Shoe or
Ultimate Frisbee or host an event during this
time, that would be awesome! Let me know
before the 31st and I will get the word out for
you!
Fri., August 12/Sat., August 13
DOWNPOUR FESTIVAL
[1:00 PM] Leaving ORLC parking lot.
Returning late Saturday the 13th. If you went
to Downpour last year, tell your friends how
incredibly fun it is, ok? The concert is free and
it takes place outdoors, so be sure to dress
appropriately. That means, bring a warm
jacket! You will see tons of Christian artists.
There are lots of booths to buy food, music,
tee shirts and souvenirs, so you will want to
bring money for that. Estimated cost-1 night’s
lodging=$25.00. 4 meals=$40.00. Bring your
swimsuit! We will stay in a hotel with a pool.
Save the dates! You won’t want to miss
Downpour. It is a blast!
The Voice
This summer, there will be a new worship
opportunity! Sunday evenings. Casual campfire
style worship on the new church property. Let’s
all go and sit together!
An e-mail reminder and a text reminder
will be sent out
prior to each event.
If you want to
receive these
notifications, please be sure that Kathy
has a current e-mail address and cell
phone number.
May 2011
Page 20
The Voice
May 2011
Page 21
Sun
Mon
3
24
9:00 am Quilting for LWR
23
7:00 pm Women’s Bible
Study at Elaine
Heen’s
30 Memorial Day
22 Last Day of Sunday
School until Fall
9:00 am Worship
10:00 am Sunday School
Staff Appreciation
10:30 am Worship
11:30 am Sunday School
Staff Appreciation
5:00 pm Graduation
Banquet
6:30 pm Sunday Evening
Campfire Worship
29
9:00 am Quilting for LWR
31
9:00 am Quilting for LWR
9:30 am Dorcas Circle
6:30 pm Altar Guild
6:00 pm Council
4:30 pm Serving Dinner at
God’s Love
9:00 am Worship
10:30 am Worship
6:30 pm Sunday Evening
Campfire Worship
17
16 Voice Articles Due
Sunday
9:00 am Worship
10:30 am Worship
12:30 pm Blackfoot Mission
Team Meeting
2:30 pm WELCA Spring
Tea
6:30 pm Sunday Evening
Campfire Worship
9:00 am Quilting for LWR
10:00 am WELCA Board
6:00 pm Breast Cancer
Support Group
4:30 pm Serving Dinner at
God’s Love
5:30 pm Social Justice
Discussion
6:00 pm Preschool Board
15 Ministry Fair
10
9
9:00 am Quilting for LWR
4:00 pm Christian Ed
Board
6:00 pm Executive Comm
Tue
Sunday
9:00 am Worship
10:30 am Worship
6:30 pm Sunday Evening
Campfire Worship
4:30 pm Serving Dinner at
God’s Love
5:30 pm Social Justice
Discussion
2
Calendar of Events
Our Redeemer’s Lutheran Church
6:30 pm Safehouse Movie
Night
7:30 pm Rejoice! Team
25
1:00 pm Rebecca Circle
4:00 pm Youth Servant
Night
7:30 pm Rejoice! Team
18
6:00 pm Safehouse
Leadership
Dinner
7:30 pm Rejoice! Team
11
5:30 pm Come to the
Water
6:30 pm Safehouse
Bowling
7:30 pm Rejoice! Team
4
Wed
Preschool until
Fall
9:00 am Sew in Love
26 Last day of
9:00 am Sew in Love
19
9:00 am Sew in Love
12
9:00 am Sew in Love
7:15 pm Chancel Choir
5
Thu
Preschool until
Fall
27 Last day of
20
13
1:00 pm Senior Singles
6
Fri
EMBRACED BY GOD’S LOVE WE REACH OUT TO SERVE BECAUSE OUR REDEEMER LIVES
8 New Member
1Confirmation Sunday
9:00 am Worship
10:00 am Blood Pressure
10:00 am Confirmation
Celebration
10:30 am Worship
6:30 pm Sunday Evening
Campfire Worship
May
2011
28
21
14
7
Sat
May Birthdays!
(Remember our friends in Christ with a Birthday prayer!)
1 Danny Barta
Carol Calkins
Tyler Martin
Teresa Schulz
2 Vicki Downhour
Joe Wadhams
3 Jean Norderud
Pastor Ron Paulson
Caitlin Peaslee
Jabin Syvrud
4 Terry Grass
Charlie Michaletz
5 Brianna Quist
6 Cindy DeTienne
Brent Rehm
Kelly Robertson
Clayton Schenck
7 Debby Henderson
Theresa Holm
Jeff Martin
8 Alli Darlow
Stan Putnam
9 Nathan Riek
Inez Svalstad
10 Marilyn Barta
Bryant Gauthier
Colleen Grass
Amber Lamping
Robert Maffit
Janet Olson
11 Ryder Alastra
12 Stacey Abrahamson
Don Elhart
Ken Hoovestol
14 Erika Ackerlund
Haley Eakin
Fran Fagrelius
Rachel Friede
Linda Lynch
Dallas Miller
Lenny Schweitzer
Hannah Woodward
15 Gretchen Coble
Dan Gaughan
Kim Orthmeyer
Marci Sim
Tami Wadhams
16 Jenna Lauf
Mark Sharkey
Kim Skiftun
17 Richard Knatterud
Jenni Mooney
18 Susan Ganter
Karie Shelton
Lisa WilliamsMathews
19 Peyton Carlson
Walter Jester
Carol Kimble
Lexi MacMillan
20 Kirk Eakin
Katie Lindner
Curt Little
21 Eli Erdahl
Becky Fletcher
Pat Keim
Kellen Murray
22 Donald Gilbertson
23 Sam Burton III
Mitch Lynch
Sharon MacMillan
Gary Novota
Austin Schweitzer
24 Carl Anfinson
Amber Bay
Jaden Biegler
Boyd Darlow
Stephen Johnson
25 Chace Bingham
Chris Rusek
26 Murray Fladeland
Merlyn Huso
Grace Lenhardt
Emilee Scott
27 Bill Goosen
28 Wendi Castle
Cameron Dole
Colton Dorrington
Logan Fladeland
Linda Robbins
Mykaylee Verworn
29 Liz Bacon
Dennis Peterson
30 Judy Golob
Lora Johnson
Dora Lindner
Samie McDaniel
31 Bob Calkins
Jeri Copenhaver
Clair Schilling
Anniversaries….
Happy Anniversary to those couples married 40 years or more this month!
45 years! Garth & Rosemary Trusler, married 5/28/1966
65 years! Al & Alice Siewert, married 5/18/1946
Many blessings for your
future years together!
A Unique Proposal
At the celebration of their 50th wedding anniversary,
Mr. and Mrs. Earl Calhoun of Tulsa told how he proposed
and she accepted. They were attending a church service in
Deepwater, Missouri, when Mr. Calhoun flipped through the
hymnbook and pointed out the words, “Every Day I Need
Thee More.” Mrs. Calhoun took the hymnal, turned a few
pages and showed him her answer: “Take Me As I Am.” He
did.
—The SourceBook of Wit and Wisdom
The Voice
May 2011
Page 22
Mail completed form to:
Administrative Assistant
Our Redeemer's Lutheran Church
1400 Stuart St.
Helena, MT 59601
Easy Giving
1400 Stuart St
Helena, MT 59601
406-442-7842
Member Enrollment and Authorization Form for Direct Deposits (ACH)
Complete this Section for All Enrollments (Please Print)
Last Name
First Name
Middle Initial
Mailing Address
City
Home Phone Number
Work Phone Number
Check the appropriate box:
New enrollment/authorization
Gifts/payments should be taken from:
Checking (attach a voided check)
Savings (attach a savings deposit slip)
Financial Institution_________________________
REQUIRED:
I (we) hereby authorize Valley Bank of Helena to automatically withdraw contributions/
donations from my account. I have attached a voided check or savings deposit slip. This
authority will remain in effect until I give reasonable notification to terminate the
authorization.
Routing Number ___________________________
Valid routing # must start with 0, 1, 2, or 3
Account Holder Signature _________________________________________________
State
Change in Authorized amount
Zip Code
Change in account
Account Number ___________________________
*** ATTACH EITHER A VOIDED CHECK OR A SAVINGS DEPOSIT SLIP ***
Complete this Section for Our Redeemer’s Lutheran Church Donations (Please Print)
Frequency of Funds Transfer (Please check only one:)
Weekly on Monday
Weekly on Friday
Semi-monthly (transferred on 1st and 15th of each month)
Monthly on the 1st
Monthly on the 15th
Church Fund Designations:
Amount:
General/Operating
$____________________
Building Together in Faith
$____________________
Other: ___________________________
$____________________
_________________________________
$____________________
START DATE: ____________________________________
Church Envelope Number: ___________________________
Dear Faithful Stewards of Our Redeemer’s:
Please prayerfully consider using our electronic funds
transfer program. It may not sound like a spiritual
program but we assure you that it has been a vital tool
to strengthen our ministry. Simply complete this form
and return it to the church office. Please call the office,
if you have any questions, 442-7842.
For Our Redeemer’s Office use only
Envelope/Participant Number: _____________
Date entered: ______________________________
Entered by Initials: __________________________
The Voice
May 2011
Page 23
U.S. Postage
OUR REDEEMER’S LUTHERAN CHURCH
Evangelical Lutheran Church in America - Montana Synod
1400 Stuart Street
Helena, MT 59601-2330
406/442-7842
PAID
Non-Profit Organization
Permit No. 96
Helena, Montana
ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED
If you would prefer to receive this
newsletter by e-mail, please contact
Our Redeemer’s Lutheran Church
at [email protected]
The Last Word
By Mariah Swenson, member
Confirmation Essay
February 2011
The story of Jesus washing his disciples'
feet is my favorite part of Jesus' life. We have
heard it many times. In Sunday school, youth
group, and during sermons. But if you stop and
think about what it actually means, it becomes
more than just a story. It shows the true love of Jesus in just one act. Jesus carried out many miracles in His life. He healed leprosy, caused the
blind to see, the lame to walk. He even brought a
dead child back to life. Now here He was, a man
who did all these incredulous acts, these miracles.
Here He was cleaning the feet of His disciples, His
servants. He executed such a simple act of kindness compared to the amazing things He had accomplished in His life. This is why this part of His
life is my favorite. It shows a complicated God in a
simpler light. It shows just how much He loves us.
God would send His one and only son to show it.
That he could perform miracles for us, preach His
word to us. He cleansed us of our sins, just as He
cleansed the feet of his servants.
He performed this act right before the Passover feast. Knowing He would be betrayed, Jesus
was going to show them “the full extent of His
The Voice
love”. The disciples were shocked when He began
to wash their feet. It was the job of the slave, the
servant, not the Lord their God. Even Peter refused to let Him wash his feet. But Jesus replied
with the words “Unless I wash you, you have no
part with me”. Just as Jesus washed their feet of
their uncleanliness, Jesus washes us of our uncleanliness through sin. He became sin and died
for us, so that our sin would die also. Jesus did
something for us we never deserved, He died for
us on the cross, so we would never have to die
apart from Him.
After Jesus cleansed His disciples’ feet, He
said to them, “Now that I have washed your feet,
you also should wash one another's feet. I have
set you an example that you should do as I have
done for you.” Now that He had spread the word
to them, taken up the cross for them, they were to
do the same. And we should do the same. Spread
God's word so that no one shall go without. That
they may know the truth. “For God so loved the
world that He gave His one and only Son, that
whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have
eternal life”.
May 2011
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