Newsletter

Light of the Cross June 2019 Newsletter

Ponderings from Pastor Juli
(parts excerpted from the Together Here report for the 2019 Synod Assembly)

 

One of the significant aspects of our synod’s work is in the area of restoring and developing relationships with the Indigenous communities, especially those within our synod.  I felt it was important to share parts of their report presented to the recent synod assembly.

 

At the synod assembly in 2017, our synod passed a resolution to repudiate the doctrine of discovery and host a service of repentance and reconciliation.  Out of that resolution the Together Here team was created, with the purpose of engaging in the ministry of mutual accompaniment through a process of learning, listening and relationship building between our communities of faith and the Indigenous communities within our synod.

The ongoing and evolving goals of Together Here are:

·         To walk with our faith communities as we form a shared historical perspective with our Indigenous neighbors,

·         To guide our faith communities as God stirs our hearts into authentic repentance of the divisions caused by systematic oppression of which the doctrine of discovery was a piece

·         To work with our faith communities to build authentic relationships with our Indigenous neighbors,

·         To engage our faith communities in deep listening of Indigenous peoples through a process of truth telling and healing, and

·         To prepare our faith communities to participate in ceremonies of healing led by Indigenous people within their own traditions as they deem appropriate then invite Indigenous communities to participate in an appropriate ECLA synodical ceremony of repentance and reconciliation.

 

Together Here is planning a number of workshops over the course of the next 11 months with the goal of providing space where people throughout our synod can get to know the stories of those living in our communities.  The series creates opportunities to learn and discuss experiences and shared histories in order for us to see each other with the hearts of neighbors rather than through the eyes of strangers. 

 

Trinity Lutheran in Brainerd will host these workshops in our area on the 4th Tuesday of each month from 6:30-8:30 p.m.  A schedule of topics will be posted on the bulletin board and I will try to include each monthly topic in the newsletter.

 

The first event will take place on June 26 and will be a “Blanket Exercise”.  This is an interactive experience that raises awareness of the nation-to-nation relationship between Indigenous and no-Indigenous peoples in the United States.  The experience is designed to increase knowledge about the laws, policies, and programs used during nation building that have impacted Indigenous people’s rights and self-governance by literally walking participants through our shared history with a different perspective.  During the experience, participants are provided the opportunity to form a common memory and begin conversation about how we can build intercultural bridges together

 

I am planning to attend these workshops and would welcome any other interested individuals to join me.  I am proud of the work of our synod in this area, and I encourage your prayers for the work of the Together Here team.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Campfire Conversations

Last summer we tried out a new event called “Campfire Conversations” which met on Wednesday evenings at 6 p.m.  Part faith discussion, part Bible study, part worship, this mid-week gathering met at the campfire (or inside if the weather didn’t cooperate) for about an hour on Wednesday evenings.  This informal time together was well-received as we enjoyed being outside in nature and sharing with one another how God has been active in our lives.  Those gatherings will continue this summer and we invite you to return, or to try it out for the first time.  The Campfire Conversations will return this summer, but they will not occur every week.  Please note the schedule below with some possible themes:

 

June 12   Resentment (The elder brother in Luke’s prodigal son parable)

June 19   Humility

July 3      Doormat versus Servant

July 10    Wealth – what makes someone rich?

July 17    Accompaniment – how do we we “walk with” others?

August 14  Regret

August 21  Saints

August 28  Perseverance

 

 

Thank You 

Sincere thanks to everyone for your prayers and concern for our grandson, Cameron (Linders).  We truly are thankful for your love shown to our family.  Cameron, age 14, is a miracle child – he’s back in school with a good prognosis.  Thank You!  

    Denny & Sharon Linders

 

 

5th Annual Mille Lacs Lake Area Operation Community Connect (OCC)

Mille Lacs Area Health Foundation and Mille Lacs Health System along with area businesses, organizations, county agencies, and churches are hosting this one-day event which is designed to connect families and individuals of all ages to local resources, jobs, information, housing and other services. 

 

Last year over 100 community members attended.   This event s free and open to everyone.  Included are free hygiene packages, children’s tennis shoes, and a meal.  Also provided are free dental services for children and pregnant women, a car seat clinic, and a discount for Ruby’s Pantry.  Volunteers are also needed.  Here’s the specific information you need to attend or encourage someone else to attend:

 

Mille Lacs Lake Area Operation Community Connct

Monday, June 3, 2019

Onamia Elementary School

35465  125th Ave

Onamia, MN   56359

 

For more information, please contact Diane Seefeld  320-532-2604 or email her at dseefeld@mlhealth.org

 

 

 

Lakes Area Unlimited Learning

Need to boost those brain cells?  Lakes Area Unlimited Learning can help.  With monthly programs on a variety of topics you can join your friends for a little educational stimuli.  Lakes Area Unlimited Learning is a non-profit with a mission of fulfilling the need for social connection and learning opportunities for inquiring minds.  Briefly, the details on the summer programs are listed below.  The sessions run for 2 hours, and the cost for non-members is $5.  All programs take place in the Conference Center at Heartwood Senior Living in Crosby.

 

June 11:  The Most Magical Bird in the World:  The Common Loon    (1:30-3:30)

July 9:   “The Search for Economic Justice:  Radicalism on the Cuyuna Iron Range” by  

              Pamela Brundfelt  (historian and retired instructor at Vermilion Community

              College. (time not known)

August 13:  Recent developments in International Politics by Tom Hanson (currently a

              Diplomat in residence at the Alworth Institute for International Affairs at the

               University of Minnesota – Duluth)  (time not known)

 

For more detailed information talk to Margaret or Tom Lunacek or take a look at the brochure on the kiosk.  Website:  www.UnlimitedLearning.net

 

Play Days

Helpers are needed for all our church’s activities during play days! 

·         There is interest in having the rummage sale and a sign up sheet is available at the Volunteer Table so you ca indicate your willingness to help.

·         We will provide a float for the parade – helpers needed to decorate and undecorate the float as well as to walk in the parade.

·         On Sunday, we will share the Tent Service with Community Alliance church.  We

are responsible for providing special music – for a couple of places within the

service – let Pastor Juli know you’d be willing to do this.

 

 

 

Synod Assembly Highlights

Bob and Kay Rocheford, along with Pastor Juli, attended the Northeastern Minnesota Synod Assembly in Duluth on May 3-5.  Here are some of the highlights:

 

Did you know…

·         Our theme this year was Just Peace Accompaniment:  Doing God’s Mission Together

·         We enjoyed ELCA Glocal (yes, spelled correctly) musicians and educators shared music in worship and workshops

·         We heard presentations from guests from our Companion Synod in India (South Andhra Lutheran Church)

·         In his sermon, Bishop Tom Aitken highlighted the gift of accompaniment we have in our companion synods in India, Honduras and Russia

·         Catherine Anderson, our synod’s Coordinator for Youth Ministry stressed the importance of faith communities being places of unconditional love, grace and mercy – announcing a new mental health initiative and providing resource kits for every congregation, encouraging them to begin important conversations with youth about anxiety, depression and suicide.

·         Our congregation received recognition (among other congregations) for giving just over $12 per confirmed member to World Hunger

·         A Bishop Election Committee has been formed and they have already begun preparations for the election of a new bishop at next year’s synod assembly.  (Bishop Tom will complete his second term and cannot be re-elected)

·         Major items of business included the passing of resolutions on Migrants at the United States-Mexican Border, Companion Synod Support, Opposing Conversion Therapy and a Commitment toward Gender Justice: Call to Repentance as well as approving the 2020 Compensation and Benefits Guidelines and the 2020 Budget

·         that $4,647.50 was raised through the Marketplace for ELCA World Hunger

·         and that $9,545.00 was raised from the Quilt Auction for ELCA World Hunger (thanks to Ruth Krautbauer for donating the baby quilt that raised $75).

·         Next year’s assembly will be held at the DECC in Duluth on May 1-3 and will include the election of a bishop, a celebration of the 50th anniversary of the ordination of women, and Pastor Juli’s 35th anniversary of ordination.  You might want to be the Voting Member for this extraordinary event next year!

 

 

Church Photographer/Historian

We are in need of someone who has an interest in preserving our congregation’s history by taking pictures of significant events here.  This does not have to be just one person, but we are seeking to have a more coordinated effort in this area.  If this sparks your creativity or interest, talk to Pastor Juli and we’ll see what kinds of resources you need. 

 

 

 

 

Salem WEST & The Mustard Seed in Deerwood

Summer is often a time for unloading usable items you no longer want or need.  Salem WEST and The Mustard Seed in Deerwood are great places to make a donation.  Salem WEST works in partnership with local Social Services and non-profit agencies to assist individuals and families in our communities.  Here’s a handy reference about what they can and cannot use.

 

All items must be from a smoke-free home.

 

Items not accepted

·         hide-a-beds, recliner couches

·         particle/pressboard items – microwave carts, entertainment centers, bookcases

·         electronics such as TV, VCR, computers, printers, copy machines

·         Mini blinds, vertical blinds, curtain rods

·         Car seats/booster seats

 

Items accepted

·         Beds:  queen, full, twin mattresses/boxes/frames, toddler beds, Pack n Plays

crib mattresses

·         Furniture:  couches, loveseats, futons, living room chairs, recliners, end tables, coffee tables, lamps, bookshelves, small desks/computer desks, desk chairs, kitchen/dining room tables and chairs, night stands, TV stands, dressers

·         Linens:  all sizes of bedding (comforters, sheets, blankets, mattress protectors) including toddler/crib; kitchen towels, dish rags, pot holders, bath towels, wash cloths, hand towels, shower curtains, throw rugs, area rugs throw blankets, curtain panels, pillows (No feather)

·         Household:  dish sets, glasses, silverware, pots and pans, bakeware, kitchen utensils, toasters, coffee makers, blenders, crock pots, microwaves, mixers, dish drainers, storage containers, vacuums, NEW mops/brooms, dustpans, trash cans

·         Baby items:  High chairs, strollers, bouncers, booster seats, baby swings, diapers, wipes

·         Clothing:  Clothing and shoes be free of rips, holes, and stains and in good condition.

 

They also accept books, toys, craft supplies, jewelry, tools, home décor items, seasonal and holiday decorations.

Light of the Cross May Newsletter 2019

 

Ponderings from Pastor Juli

Evangelism is something we all have a responsibility to do as members of this church.  I know that can sound like a scary word, and pictures of knocking on doors and making calls on strangers is not something we feel comfortable doing.  On the other hand, we have a mandate to go into the world with the good news and we know how important those invitations and contacts can be.  Sometimes people are just waiting to be asked to become part of our church and we don’t even know it!

 

Our church was built by the efforts of members going out to invite people to come and see Light of the Cross Lutheran Church and be a part of its presence in the community!   This was not only the work of the pastor but a ministry that was shared together.  And in fact, done more effectively by members rather than the pastor!  The pastor goes in as a “salesperson” – but lay people go in with a genuine invitation to join a group of people who have been supportive to them, encouraging for them, and welcoming to them.  They speak from a different perspective than the pastor – they speak from their experience as a participant in the life of the church.

 

Do you know of someone new in your area?  Or do you know of someone in your area who may not have a church home yet?   Take the initiative to stop by and invite them to church.  Drop off one of the church brochures we have which outlines our ministries.  Let the pastor know you have made a visit, or would like her to make contact with someone new in the area.

You are the eyes and ears, the hands and feet, the voice and vehicle for our church’s ongoing outreach.  Together, as partners, we can help this church grow.

 

Pastor Juli 

 

 

Interested in Membership?

We are always delighted to help you make Light of the Cross Lutheran your home church.  If you have been wondering how to go about that process, we’re here to help.  If you are interested in membership, you should know that we offer a couple of different options.  If you are living in the area or consider this area your primary residence, you may want to consider

our standard (confirmed) membership.  As a member under this designation, you are able to vote at any of the congregational meetings and our annual meeting.  We also offer an associate membership which allows you to keep your primary membership in another congregation but also have a membership in this congregation.  You would not have voting privileges or be eligible for elected offices or membership on the church council but all our privileges and duties of membership would be available to you.  A seasonal membership is also available. Unlike the associate membership, as a seasonal member you have all the privileges and duties of membership including the right to vote and to hold elected positions, even though you may hold membership in another congregation simultaneously.

 

If you are considering membership, please talk to Pastor Juli.  A reception for new members is being considered for sometime in June, but we would like to know of your interest before then so we can make plans to include you in this community of faith. 

 

Prayer Concerns

 

Please keep these folks in your prayers. If you have concerns, we would like to be in partnership & prayer with you. Contact the Church, Pastor Juli, or our Prayer Chain Coordinators, who are Donalee Wells (320-692-4474) & Candy Scott (512-431-4835)

 

Member Concerns:

Arlen Anderson Family

Gary Anderson Family                  Buzz Lindbo

Jim & Barb Bergstrom                  Mickey Ensminger                                    

Betty Brooke                                 LaVonne McCalvy

Jeannie Ciesinski Family              Mary Anne & Fred McDougall

Mark & Peggy Carlson                 Marlys Moen

Bill Deem                                      Terry Purington               

Mary Erickson Family                   Bev Putnam

Arylce Hanson                              Gene & Mary Ramaley

Arnie & Pat Heinrich                    Bob & Corky Beavers

Bob & Shirley Holbrook               Bernie & Mary Zebro

          Jean Knoblauch Family                           

 

 

Notices & Events

 

 

We Support the Work of the Garrison Area Caregivers

Part of the ongoing ministry outreach of our congregation is to provide support for our local food shelf and thrift store – commonly known as the Garrison Area Caregivers.  Our church played an instrumental role in the creation of this program in our community and we continue to support it with part of our annual budget, the additional monetary gifts from our members, and the ongoing support with food items for the food shelf.  We want to encourage you to continue your support of these vital programs in our community.  Here are the times when these facilities are open:

          Food Shelf  Tues and Thursday from 1-5

          Thrift Store  Thursday, Friday, Saturday from 10-4

Both functions are looking for volunteers to help staff their programs – that’s another way we support these wonderful services.  Thank you for ALL the ways you are a part of our church’s ministry through the Caregivers.  For more information, talk to Caryle Crandall

 

The Garrison Lions will be hosting their 16th Annual Community Clean-up Event at the VFW parking lot on Saturday, June 1st from 8 a.m.-noon – rain or shine.  A nominal fee is charged to dispose of your “junk-treasures”.  If you have questions, call Mike at 612-282-2537.

Items accepted:

Appliances, Old Computers, Couches & Chairs, Mattresses, Scrap Metals, Construction Materials, Batteries, Tires & Bikes

Items NOT accepted:

Chemicals or paints
 

Garrison Play Days Volunteers needed

We are looking ahead to Play Days in July already and contemplating the helpers we might need.  If you see a place where you can give a little time to make sure LOC has a presence in our community event that weekend (July 19-21), we encourage you to put the dates on your calendar.  There will be a sign up sheet at the Volunteer Table soon but here are some areas where we need help:

·        Garage Sale -  need someone to spear-head this.  We did not have this last year and people missed it!  Also need helpers to set up, sell and tear down.

·        Parade – help to decorate the float and to walk in the parade.

·        Pie & Ice Cream – WELCA works with this and will be scheduling helpers

·        Bake Sale – everyone can contribute to this in some way

 

Evangelism Committee

This active committee oversees some of the most fun events in our congregation including the annual Music Jam and Ice Cream Social in August, participation in the Play Days parade, and welcoming new members on the Sunday they join our congregation.  These are just a few of the activities that keep us busy – lots of work for just a small committee of 4 people!  We need your help!  We are looking for people who would be willing to share their ideas and lend a helping hand to the work of the committee either on a monthly basis or for help in planning and coordinating the various special events that occur through the committee (more like a task force).  If you are looking for a way to become more involved in the life of the church, may we be the first to encourage you to join the Evangelism Committee.  You would be a wonderful asset to our work!  Talk to Linda Augustson, or Caryle Crandall or Pastor Juli to let them know of your interest…and thank you!

 

Game Day

May 7th and 21st this month! We are having such a great turn out and a wonderful time. Come enjoy great fellowship, friendly competition, and loads and loads of fun from 2-4 pm. Everyone is welcome, so bring a friend or neighbor….or both! The more the merrier!

 

 

VITAL STATISTICS

Due to the transitioning of the newsletter to the website and the need to protect individuals identity,birthdays and anniversaries will be posted on the board at the church. Congratulations to all, both birthdays & anniversaries!! 
Each & everyone are precious & special & should be celebrated to the fullest.
 

Light of the Cross March 2019 Newsletter

Ponderings from Pastor Juli

The January/February issues of the Gather magazine (the magazine of the Women of the ELCA) contained an article written by Susan Olson.  The title of her article sparked my thinking about the highlight event of our Christian lives – the resurrection of Jesus, which we celebrate most triumphantly on Easter Sunday, but essentially in an ongoing way every Sunday.  The title of her article was “Come and See”.
 
“Come and see” were the words uttered by the angel to the women who came to Jesus’ tomb that first Easter morning.  “Do not be afraid, I know that you are looking for Jesus who was crucified.  He is not here; for he has been raised, as he said.  Come and see the place where he lay.”  (Matthew 28:5-6)
 
“Come and see” are the words of children when they find something unique and interesting – a nest with a bird’s egg in it, or a box full of new kittens or puppies, or a worm on the sidewalk after a spring rain.  The words spring to our adult lips too when we encounter something we want to share with someone – “Come and see” my new fishing gear -- “come and see” the huge squash growing in my garden – “come and see” the deer out in the field.
 
“Come and see” are words that require action.  As Olson noted in her article, “You’ve got to leave the place you are to see the thing that is new.  Revelation doesn’t happen from an arm chair.” 
 
You are invited to “come and see” the empty tomb, to experience the good news of Easter again.  But what will it mean to you?  How will you react to this invitation?  Will this news strike your ear as “old news”?  Or will the excitement and the wonder of this good news still stir your heart to sing, and your spirit to soar, and your pulse to race.  I hope so – because if the good news doesn’t still inspire you to “come and see” -- how can you encourage others to come and see?  I hope you will be inspired to reflect on AL that this good news means for your life and that the joy, hope, wonder and awe of this news will encourage you to share the good news with someone else.  Tell them how Easter has changed your life.  Invite them to “come and see”!
 
Pastor Juli
 
 
  
 

PRAYER CONCERNS

 
Please keep these folks in your prayers.  If you have concerns, we would like to be in partnership & prayer with you.  Contact the Church, Pastor Juli, or our Prayer Chain Coordinators, who are Donalee Wells (320-692-4474) & Candy Scott (512-431-4835).

 
Member Concerns:
Arlen Anderson Family                 Buzz Lindbo
Jim & Barb Bergstrom                  Mickey Ensminger                                                
Betty Brooke                                   LaVonne McCalvy
Jeannie Ciesinski Family              Mary Anne & Fred McDougall
Mark & Peggy Carlson                  Marlys Moen
Bill Deem                                          Terry Purington               
Mary Erickson Family                    Bev Putnam
Arylce Hanson                                Gene & Mary Ramaley
Arnie & Pat Heinrich                     Bob & Corky Beavers
Bob & Shirley Holbrook                Bernie & Mary Zebro
Jean Knoblauch Family                           

 

 NOTICES & EVENTS

Farewell Reception for Diane
After serving our congregation for 11 ½ years, Diane Durbin, our Office Coordinator/Bookkeeper, has resigned her position to accept a new job.  We would like to thank Diane at a Farewell Reception on Sunday, April 7 following the morning worship service.  Please come and express your appreciation for her faithful service to our congregation and wish her Godspeed in her new endeavor.  Thank you for all you have done for our church, Diane!  We will miss you!
 
Part-time Office Coordinator/Bookkeeper
In light of Diane’s departure, we are seeking a part-time Office Coordinator/Bookkeeper.  A full job description and application form are available in the church office if you or someone you know is interested in applying for the position.  Candidates should be able to work independently, manage administrative details and accounting software, as well as have a cooperative attitude and organizational skills.  For more information, contact Pastor Juli.
 
Coryn Schwark will be filling the office in a temporary capacity until a replacement is hired (or until the U-Haul is ready to head to California).  
 
Game Day
April 1st this month.  We are having such a great turn out and a wonderful time.  Come enjoy great fellowship, friendly completion and loads and loads of fun from 2-4 pm.  Everyone is welcome so bring a friend or neighbor.  The more the merrier.
Office Coordinator Position Posting
(hopefully this will be available after the council meeting on Wednesday to be included in the newsletter). 
 
Easter Garden
Again, this year we are requesting lilies, spring flowers or plants for our Easter Garden. 
Flowers may be given to honor someone special in your life or as a memorial to someone who has passed from your life.  If you would like to share a plant or flower this year, we encourage you to:
          1.  Sign up at the volunteer table to note whether your gift is in honor or in memory of someone.  (This list will be published in our Easter bulletin)
          2.  Purchase your plant
          3.  Bring it to church and place it in the far storage area.  We will have tags available so you can put your name on your plant.   Plants should be at the church by Good Friday – April 19. 
          4.  Following the Easter service, plan to take your plant home, or consider delivering it you one of our home-bound members. 
 
Congratulations to “Author” Pam Bastien
A recent article in the Mille Lacs Messenger highlighted the publication of Pam Bastien’s first novel “Counselor of the Beach”.  We are proud of her accomplishment and congratulate Pam on this momentous event!  Can’t wait to read it!  A second novel is hinted at in the article – a mystery that takes place with the backdrop of the frozen Lake Mille Lacs.  We’ll be awaiting this next novel eagerly!
 
Ride Assistance
Bob Beavers has recently returned to his home from a stay at Bethany Care Center in Brainerd.  He would dearly love to be able to attend church, but he is in need of transportation on Sunday mornings.  If you are able to assist with a ride, please give him a call to let him know.  We are in the process of developing a more long-term solution to this need and we will keep you informed of those developments.  In the meantime, I know how much Bob would appreciate this help.
 
A Farewell to a Great People! 
I wanted to take this time to thank you all for so many years of amazing service here at LOC.  I have been finding myself reflecting back through the years and the memories of you all come flooding in.  From your welcoming acceptance upon my arrival to the service of events, memorials, funerals, new projects, transitioning of a new Pastor to the many heart felt conversations of advice, suggestions, shared experiences and the love I have gained from you all.  Though I was not a member here, I was always the first to brag on you and how you welcomed people no matter where they came in their walk of life.  You had become my family of which I know that I may not have come through some hard times if it were not for you.  I loved sharing God and who He is in our lives with you and I loved serving you with your projects no matter how great or small they seemed to be.  I counted it all joy and a true Blessing!
  Through the battles and the struggles along with the many victories here at LOC you are still standing.  My prayer is that you continue to love those who walk into the doors of this church and welcome them with all love, compassion, and understanding with open arms that I felt when I first arrived here.  Your Name, “Light of the Cross” says it all.  Be the light of the Cross for many to see.  A beacon for many who seek to find a place to call home and family to become a part of.  May the Lord Bless You and keep You.  May His face shine upon you and be gracious unto you.  May He lift his continence upon you.  And give you peace. In the Name of Jesus.  Until we meet again! 
Diane Durbin

 

     VITAL STATISTICS

Due to the transitioning of the newsletter to the website and the need to protect individuals identity,
birthdays and anniversaries will be posted on the board at the church. Congratulations to all, both birthdays & anniversaries!! 
Each & everyone are precious & special & should be celebrated to the fullest.

 
Ponderings from Pastor Juli(parts excerpted from the Together Here report for the 2019 Synod Assembly)
 
One of the significant aspects of our synod’s work is in the area of restoring and developing relationships with the Indigenous communities, especially those within our synod.  I felt it was important to share parts of their report presented to the recent synod assembly.
 
At the synod assembly in 2017, our synod passed a resolution to repudiate the doctrine of discovery and host a service of repentance and reconciliation.  Out of that resolution the Together Here team was created, with the purpose of engaging in the ministry of mutual accompaniment through a process of learning, listening and relationship building between our communities of faith and the Indigenous communities within our synod.
The ongoing and evolving goals of Together Here are:
  • To walk with our faith communities as we form a shared historical perspective with our Indigenous neighbors,
  • To guide our faith communities as God stirs our hearts into authentic repentance of the divisions caused by systematic oppression of which the doctrine of discovery was a piece
  • To work with our faith communities to build authentic relationships with our Indigenous neighbors,
  • To engage our faith communities in deep listening of Indigenous peoples through a process of truth telling and healing, and
  • To prepare our faith communities to participate in ceremonies of healing led by Indigenous people within their own traditions as they deem appropriate then invite Indigenous communities to participate in an appropriate ECLA synodical ceremony of repentance and reconciliation.
 
Together Here is planning a number of workshops over the course of the next 11 months with the goal of providing space where people throughout our synod can get to know the stories of those living in our communities.  The series creates opportunities to learn and discuss experiences and shared histories in order for us to see each other with the hearts of neighbors rather than through the eyes of strangers. 
 
Trinity Lutheran in Brainerd will host these workshops in our area on the 4th Tuesday of each month from 6:30-8:30 p.m.  A schedule of topics will be posted on the bulletin board and I will try to include each monthly topic in the newsletter.
 
The first event will take place on June 26 and will be a “Blanket Exercise”.  This is an interactive experience that raises awareness of the nation-to-nation relationship between Indigenous and no-Indigenous peoples in the United States.  The experience is designed to increase knowledge about the laws, policies, and programs used during nation building that have impacted Indigenous people’s rights and self-governance by literally walking participants through our shared history with a different perspective.  During the experience, participants are provided the opportunity to form a common memory and begin conversation about how we can build intercultural bridges together
 
I am planning to attend these workshops and would welcome any other interested individuals to join me.  I am proud of the work of our synod in this area, and I encourage your prayers for the work of the Together Here team.
 
 
 
 
 
 
Campfire Conversations
Last summer we tried out a new event called “Campfire Conversations” which met on Wednesday evenings at 6 p.m.  Part faith discussion, part Bible study, part worship, this mid-week gathering met at the campfire (or inside if the weather didn’t cooperate) for about an hour on Wednesday evenings.  This informal time together was well-received as we enjoyed being outside in nature and sharing with one another how God has been active in our lives.  Those gatherings will continue this summer and we invite you to return, or to try it out for the first time.  The Campfire Conversations will return this summer, but they will not occur every week.  Please note the schedule below with some possible themes:
 
June 12   Resentment (The elder brother in Luke’s prodigal son parable)
June 19   Humility
July 3      Doormat versus Servant
July 10    Wealth – what makes someone rich?
July 17    Accompaniment – how do we we “walk with” others?
August 14  Regret
August 21  Saints
August 28  Perseverance
 
 
Thank You 
Sincere thanks to everyone for your prayers and concern for our grandson, Cameron (Linders).  We truly are thankful for your love shown to our family.  Cameron, age 14, is a miracle child – he’s back in school with a good prognosis.  Thank You!  
    Denny & Sharon Linders
 
 
5th Annual Mille Lacs Lake Area Operation Community Connect (OCC)
Mille Lacs Area Health Foundation and Mille Lacs Health System along with area businesses, organizations, county agencies, and churches are hosting this one-day event which is designed to connect families and individuals of all ages to local resources, jobs, information, housing and other services. 
 
Last year over 100 community members attended.   This event s free and open to everyone.  Included are free hygiene packages, children’s tennis shoes, and a meal.  Also provided are free dental services for children and pregnant women, a car seat clinic, and a discount for Ruby’s Pantry.  Volunteers are also needed.  Here’s the specific information you need to attend or encourage someone else to attend:
 
Mille Lacs Lake Area Operation Community Connct
Monday, June 3, 2019
Onamia Elementary School
35465  125th Ave
Onamia, MN   56359
 
For more information, please contact Diane Seefeld  320-532-2604 or email her at dseefeld@mlhealth.org
 
 
 
Lakes Area Unlimited Learning
Need to boost those brain cells?  Lakes Area Unlimited Learning can help.  With monthly programs on a variety of topics you can join your friends for a little educational stimuli.  Lakes Area Unlimited Learning is a non-profit with a mission of fulfilling the need for social connection and learning opportunities for inquiring minds.  Briefly, the details on the summer programs are listed below.  The sessions run for 2 hours, and the cost for non-members is $5.  All programs take place in the Conference Center at Heartwood Senior Living in Crosby.
 
June 11:  The Most Magical Bird in the World:  The Common Loon    (1:30-3:30)
July 9:   “The Search for Economic Justice:  Radicalism on the Cuyuna Iron Range” by  
              Pamela Brundfelt  (historian and retired instructor at Vermilion Community
              College. (time not known)
August 13:  Recent developments in International Politics by Tom Hanson (currently a
              Diplomat in residence at the Alworth Institute for International Affairs at the
               University of Minnesota – Duluth)  (time not known)
 
For more detailed information talk to Margaret or Tom Lunacek or take a look at the brochure on the kiosk.  Website:  www.UnlimitedLearning.net
 
Play Days
Helpers are needed for all our church’s activities during play days! 
  • There is interest in having the rummage sale and a sign up sheet is available at the Volunteer Table so you ca indicate your willingness to help.
  • We will provide a float for the parade – helpers needed to decorate and undecorate the float as well as to walk in the parade.
  • On Sunday, we will share the Tent Service with Community Alliance church.  We
are responsible for providing special music – for a couple of places within the
service – let Pastor Juli know you’d be willing to do this.
 
 
 
Synod Assembly Highlights
Bob and Kay Rocheford, along with Pastor Juli, attended the Northeastern Minnesota Synod Assembly in Duluth on May 3-5.  Here are some of the highlights:
 
Did you know…
  • Our theme this year was Just Peace Accompaniment:  Doing God’s Mission Together
  • We enjoyed ELCA Glocal (yes, spelled correctly) musicians and educators shared music in worship and workshops
  • We heard presentations from guests from our Companion Synod in India (South Andhra Lutheran Church)
  • In his sermon, Bishop Tom Aitken highlighted the gift of accompaniment we have in our companion synods in India, Honduras and Russia
  • Catherine Anderson, our synod’s Coordinator for Youth Ministry stressed the importance of faith communities being places of unconditional love, grace and mercy – announcing a new mental health initiative and providing resource kits for every congregation, encouraging them to begin important conversations with youth about anxiety, depression and suicide.
  • Our congregation received recognition (among other congregations) for giving just over $12 per confirmed member to World Hunger
  • A Bishop Election Committee has been formed and they have already begun preparations for the election of a new bishop at next year’s synod assembly.  (Bishop Tom will complete his second term and cannot be re-elected)
  • Major items of business included the passing of resolutions on Migrants at the United States-Mexican Border, Companion Synod Support, Opposing Conversion Therapy and a Commitment toward Gender Justice: Call to Repentance as well as approving the 2020 Compensation and Benefits Guidelines and the 2020 Budget
  • that $4,647.50 was raised through the Marketplace for ELCA World Hunger
  • and that $9,545.00 was raised from the Quilt Auction for ELCA World Hunger (thanks to Ruth Krautbauer for donating the baby quilt that raised $75).
  • Next year’s assembly will be held at the DECC in Duluth on May 1-3 and will include the election of a bishop, a celebration of the 50th anniversary of the ordination of women, and Pastor Juli’s 35th anniversary of ordination.  You might want to be the Voting Member for this extraordinary event next year!
 
 
Church Photographer/Historian
We are in need of someone who has an interest in preserving our congregation’s history by taking pictures of significant events here.  This does not have to be just one person, but we are seeking to have a more coordinated effort in this area.  If this sparks your creativity or interest, talk to Pastor Juli and we’ll see what kinds of resources you need. 
 
 
 
 
Salem WEST & The Mustard Seed in Deerwood
Summer is often a time for unloading usable items you no longer want or need.  Salem WEST and The Mustard Seed in Deerwood are great places to make a donation.  Salem WEST works in partnership with local Social Services and non-profit agencies to assist individuals and families in our communities.  Here’s a handy reference about what they can and cannot use.
 
All items must be from a smoke-free home.
 
Items not accepted
  • hide-a-beds, recliner couches
  • particle/pressboard items – microwave carts, entertainment centers, bookcases
  • electronics such as TV, VCR, computers, printers, copy machines
  • Mini blinds, vertical blinds, curtain rods
  • Car seats/booster seats
 
Items accepted
  • Beds:  queen, full, twin mattresses/boxes/frames, toddler beds, Pack n Plays
crib mattresses
  • Furniture:  couches, loveseats, futons, living room chairs, recliners, end tables, coffee tables, lamps, bookshelves, small desks/computer desks, desk chairs, kitchen/dining room tables and chairs, night stands, TV stands, dressers
  • Linens:  all sizes of bedding (comforters, sheets, blankets, mattress protectors) including toddler/crib; kitchen towels, dish rags, pot holders, bath towels, wash cloths, hand towels, shower curtains, throw rugs, area rugs throw blankets, curtain panels, pillows (No feather)
  • Household:  dish sets, glasses, silverware, pots and pans, bakeware, kitchen utensils, toasters, coffee makers, blenders, crock pots, microwaves, mixers, dish drainers, storage containers, vacuums, NEW mops/brooms, dustpans, trash cans
  • Baby items:  High chairs, strollers, bouncers, booster seats, baby swings, diapers, wipes
  • Clothing:  Clothing and shoes be free of rips, holes, and stains and in good condition.
 
They also accept books, toys, craft supplies, jewelry, tools, home décor items, seasonal and holiday decorations.