1. religion and spirituality
2. christianity

4200 Lake Road ~ Robbinsdale, MN 55422
763.537.6965 ~ www.robbinsdaleucc.org ~ email: [email protected]
Vol. 43, Issue 5, May 2015 Edition
WORSHIP AT RUCC
Centering Prayer: 9:40 a.m.
Worship service: 10:00 a.m.
Can you believe it?
Infant and Toddler care available.
Bible Adventures for children 3 years old
through 5th grade, 10:15–11:15 am
COMING UP
May 3: RUCC Cabaret
May 4: Caregiver Support Group
May 6: Lifetouch photographers here
May 8: Lord of the Rings Movie Party
May 11: Caregiver Support Group
May 12: Adolescent Mental Health
Presentation & Discussion
May 13: Drumming & Story Telling
May 17: Pilgrim Guild Plant & Bake Sale
May 18: Caregiver Support Group
May 23: YEP-2 Fundraising Dinner
May 25: Caregiver Support Group
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
From Your Pastor....................... 2
Worship ...................................3-4
Activities & Events ..................4-8
Thank Yous .............................8-9
Youth........................................ 10
Life of the Church................11-14
Birthdays .................................. 14
Prayer Requests ...................... 15
Social Justice ......................15-17
Non RUCC Activities ................ 17
Calendar .................................. 18
Grant Press Release................ 19
Robbinsdale United Church of Christ received an $11,000 grant
to deepen understanding and develop creative practices
of communion and community in gathering around the table
with people of other Christian denominations and other faiths.
This will be an amazing year of learning and growing in spreading
our sense of radical hospitality from our communion table to our
homes to all the places we will go.
To learn more about our grant and its impact,
come to church on June 7th
for an amazing 3rd Sunday of Pentecost,
End of Our 125th Year picnic,
and the Beginning of something New.
(see copy of press release on page 19)
The Mustard Seed • May 2015
2
From Your Pastor and Teacher
God is still speaking
“The best way to know God is to love many things.”
~ Vincent Van Gogh
What most disturbs me is that every once in a while someone who visits our church on a Sunday
morning or even during the week comments that they don’t feel loved here. The ministry of Jesus
may feel complex when we read the parables and comb through years of theological arguments and
treatises, but the reality is that the whole thing boils down to love. “Love one another” is the
commandment above all other commandments. The whole concept manifests itself in our hospitality
to our longtime friends and to the strangers in our midst. Just love each other.
Love is the reason we cannot support the manufacturing and sale of any weapon, from handguns
to nuclear missiles. Love is how we know God. It happens through healing and recovery. It happens
powerfully in moments of forgiveness. It happens in nature all the time when we feel connected to
the wind and water. We know God through our love.
I think it’s sad then to pretend that we can dole out permission for people to receive our love.
Love has no boundaries except the ones we place there. All our lives we think that love is scarce
and we better protect our person and our property from those that want to take advantage of us. It’s
why we put locks on our doors and our hearts and have shut ourselves off from the very people we
are called to love, our neighbors. Why would anyone complain about paying taxes when the root of
the system is to share in the opportunities for education, travel, safety, and finally, health care? Why
would anyone complain about the traffic, the weather, or the wide variety things beyond our control
when that energy could be used to love?
That is the amazing thing about love. It multiplies. The more we give, the more it comes back to
us. It doesn’t care about bank accounts or social status or gender or color or any other label. It is the
most powerful force in the world and always has been. Love is the driving force that will enable us
to cure cancer, feed every child and end all wars. It is the only method that works for any long term
solution.
So the next time someone asks about your church and what we believe in, don’t try to explain our
long history of great music, amazing community and inclusive worship. Just tell them that our church
is about love. And then invite them to come and experience it.
See you in church,
The Mustard Seed • May 2015
3
CENTERING PRAYER at
Robbinsdale United Church of Christ
Come and experience this form of prayer. Enter the
sanctuary anytime between 9:40 and 9:55 and sit with
the community in quiet contemplation. All are
welcome. May there be no barriers between you and
God within you.
If you would like to know more about this time of
Centering Prayer, pick up a brochure or talk with T.
Michael or a member of the Worship Ministry.
WORSHIP AT RUCC
EASTER THEME:
“125 Years of Ministry:
Where do we go from here as Easter People?”
This season of Easter we will be focusing on
Resurrection possibilities in our church and in our
lives. Each Sunday we will get a chance of reflection
on where we have been in our ministry and discern
where God is calling us to be in the future. The only
thing we can’t do is stay where we are. Action and
Reflection is the cycle that will help us always grow in
the Holy Spirit.
MAY 3rd – Fifth Sunday of Easter - Communion
Sunday
Scripture Reading: John 15:1-8
Sermon Title: “Abiding in Love” – Rev. T. Michael Rock
We are rooted. There is stability in our faith. That
rootedness allows us to grow, try new things, and to
experiment with our faith and our expressions of
justice and love. We need to return sometimes to the
source of our roots. This is a great Sunday to invite
someone you know to experience the foundation of
our faith.
MAY 10th – Mother’s Day and Service of Gratitude
for Laura Cannata and Moussa Foster
Come and support our beloved interns as they
collaborate on the final sermon of their internship
experience. We are supremely grateful for both of
them and for their willingness to share their gifts and
learn some things along the way. We will also be
honoring the many “mothers” that have guided us
along the way and how we engage in that Divine role
for one another.
MAY 17th – Seventh Sunday of Easter – Gratitude
Sunday for Choir and Bible Adventures.
Scripture Reading: John 21:15-19
Sermon Title: “Love is Greater than Fear”
We will do a lot of celebrating this Sunday, but we
will also engage in moments of truth and awe. We will
appreciate our amazing choir and their leaders, those
that have worked with our children, and we will even
engage in law enforcement appreciation. Along the
way, let’s remember the role of love and its power to
cast out fear.
The Mustard Seed • May 2015
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MAY 24th – Pentecost Sunday
Scripture Reading – Acts 2:1-13 and 43-47
Sermon Title “Intoxicated and Impoverished”- Guest
Preacher, Cathy Kolwey
Come support Cathy Kolwey, one of our
“members in discernment,” as she kicks off our three
week Pentecost celebration with a reflection on the
day the Spirit came and set new rules to how people
would live and celebrate together.
31st
MAY
– Pentecost Sunday – Part II
Scripture Reading: Isaiah 6:1-8 and John 3:1-17
Sermon Title: “Mystery Revealed” – Rev. T. Michael
Rock
Pentecost continues in stories of mystery and
revelation. Come and experience the joy and surprise
of a renewed life of faith.
A gentle reminder that Robbinsdale United Church
of Christ is a fragrance free environment. Please be
mindful of members and visitors by not using any
perfume, cologne, or heavily scented lotions. It is very
much appreciated.
THIS MONTH’S
ACTIVITIES & EVENTS
MEN’S BREAKFAST GROUP
Saturday, May 2nd. Coffee will be ready at 7:30 am
Breakfast will be ready at 8:00 am
This will be an open discussion breakfast and we
ask that you come with an open mind. If you have not
had the opportunity to attend one of our breakfasts,
now would be the time. The current church members
who have been attending our breakfasts are always
open to others joining and encourage your
participation. Thank you, John Rost
The Mustard Seed • May 2015
5
BIBLE STUDY, NERD-STYLE
Sundays, May 3rd, 10th, and 17th
The Quilt Group – Threads of Hope – have created
more than 25 awesome quilts this year to donate.
Raffle tickets will be sold before and after worship on
the first three Sundays of May. Three tickets for $5 or
$2 per ticket. The drawing of a name will be made
after worship on May 17th and the winner will receive
the quilt of their choice. The quilts are displayed in the
sanctuary. Proceeds from the raffle pay for batting
and other materials needed. Questions? Contact
Dawn Carlson Conn or Nancy Bossert.
Wednesday, May 6th ~ 6pm - 7:15pm (last class)
This will be the last class of the Lord of the Rings
and Hobbit bible study, led by Ministerial Intern, Laura
Cannata.
Friday, May 8th ~ 7pm
To celebrate the finale of this bible study, Laura
will be hosting a movie night. Come watch one of the
movies you’ve been discussing the past few months.
“BIBLE AND
BEVERAGES”
Every 2nd and 4th
Sunday night
at 8:00pm
QUILTING GROUP
Monday, May 4th ~ 5pm – 9pm
Old friends and new members – this is our last
meeting until fall. We'd love to have you join us. Come
ANYTIME between 5 and 9 p.m. - and help us tie knots
to secure the quilts for Simpson Homeless Shelter and
Home Free Battered Women's Shelter. No experience
needed - and new friendships can be kindled!! If you'd
like to sew a quilt top kit or have any questions, call
Dawn Carlson Conn at 612.281.6515 or Nancy
Bossert at 763.473.0714.
May 10th – Gospel of John – Part 1
May 24th – Gospel of John – Part 11
We are gathering at our new location, “Big Louie’s”
(5216 West Broadway, Crystal) for drinks and
discussion. It will be a combination of Sunday morning
reflection and Bible Study for Beginners (FYI - we are
all beginners). Folks can bring their own ideas for
study as well. All are welcome.
The Mustard Seed • May 2015
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PILGRIM GUILD
Tuesday, May 12th at 12
noon
Come join us for lunch in
the
living
room
of
RUCC. Bring your favorite
dish to share. Bring along a
friend, too. Everyone is welcome! This will be our last
gathering until September. We will have many
birthdays to celebrate with song. Come join the fun!
Special Musical Event for ALL ages
Wednesday, May 13th
6:00pm – Simple Meal
6:15pm – Drumming and Story Telling with Gayan
Gregory Long
ADOLESCENT MENTAL HEALTH
We Promise Our Love, Support, and Care, Part II:
Adolescent Mental Health
Tuesday, May 12th ~ 7 pm to 9 pm
Robbinsdale United Church of Christ promises our
"love, support, and care" to every child that we baptize.
How does a congregation do that with a youth that has
anxiety or depression? How does a congregation do
that with a youth that is cutting or engaging in other
forms of self-harm? How can we, as a community of
faith, help our friends and loved ones heal from mental
illness and overcome the stigma of mental illness?
Come Tuesday night, May 12th, at 7:00 pm. Listen to
a presentation by a volunteer from NAMI Minnesota
(National Alliance on Mental Illness) followed by a
panel discussion.
Free event. All are welcome. Questions? Contact
Ken Beck [email protected] or 612-5213119
Gayan is the son of long time church member, June
Long, and he is an internationally known drummer and
storyteller. He brings a passion and joy to his craft that
is accessible to everyone. We will have enough drums
for everyone to participate who would like to play.
You can also come and soak in the heartbeat of
prayer.
FAITH IN FILM
Thursday, May 14th ~ 7 pm: Rent
RENT depicts the lives of
several Bohemians and their
struggles with sexuality,
drugs, paying their rent, and
life under the shadow of AIDS.
It takes place in the East
Village of New York City from
1989 to 1990. The film features six of the original
Broadway cast members reprising their roles.
Stars: Taye Diggs, Wilson Jermaine Heredia,
Rosario. Released in 2005. Rated PG-13.
The Mustard Seed • May 2015
7
Faith in Film is offered the second Thursday of the
month, September to May, as a ministry of
Robbinsdale UCC. Movies are shown in the Youth
Room followed by conversation about its meaning as
it relates to faith.
RUCC YOUTH FUNDRAISER
Saturday, May 23rd – YEP 2 Fundraising Dinner at
Parkway UCC
Ticket are $10 and proceeds help fund youth
scholarships. More information to follow.
For more information or to suggest movies, contact
Marc Blakesley at [email protected] or at
612.325.1467. There is also a “Faith in Film” group on
Facebook.
PILGRIM GUILD
Sunday, May
17th
~ following worship
The Pilgrim Guild is sponsoring its annual Plant and
Bake Sale after church, on May 17th. This is the time
to get out in your garden and split those
perennials. Bring a few to share with others. If you
see a great sale item when shopping for your garden,
buy an extra and donate it to the cause. Those who
don't garden can bring a baked item. Everyone loves
a bake sale!
The proceeds help fund projects around the church
and in our nearby area. Pilgrim Guild recently
purchased new tables and a cart for the church, gave
money to Clare Housing (a new residence in
Robbinsdale for people living with HIV/AIDS), and
money for Simpson House Meals sponsored by
our RUCC Men's Group. See you at the Sale!
Needed: Bell ringers for the RUCC Bell Choir
to be rehearsal and performance substitutes. In a bell
choir if people are missing, those notes the missing
people are responsible for are not played or heard,
making it very difficult to have a successful rehearsal
or performance.
Please let David know if you would be available on
Wednesday afternoons from 5:30 - 7:00 p.m. to be a
rehearsal and a performance substitute. Contact
David Nordli at [email protected] or via text at 952913-9836.
The Mustard Seed • May 2015
8
THANK YOUS
So many wonderful new families among us of
every size and shape. What a blessing. Families and
friends may join RUCC anytime they are ready. We are
excited to have all the new stories become a part of
the ministry at RUCC. If you have any questions or
would like to join Robbinsdale United Church of Christ,
please talk with Dawn Carlson Conn or T. Michael
Rock.
“Thank you for your gift of
$150. Your generosity and
your involvement as a member
of Bread for the World is very
encouraging. Your financial support enables us to
invest in resources and activities that strengthen our
collective Christian voice to end hunger.”
(This was a
donation directly
from
Pilgrim
Guild)
“On behalf of the Board of Directors, staff, and clients
of Clare Housing, we gratefully pause to say thank you
for your generous gift of $250. Because of your
generous donation, we will be able to strengthen our
person-focused programs which are designed to bring
together strategies of harm reduction, treatment and
care to enhance quality of life and reduce new
infections in our community.”
BIKING AT RUCC
It’s time to think of spring and getting back on the
bicycle. There are many folks at RUCC who love to
ride. Each Sunday this summer, we will invite anyone
and everyone out for Sunday afternoon bike rides of
various lengths and challenge. We will also stop for ice
cream along the route. It should be a great way to get
the heart pumping and be able to spend some time
with our church family. A group of us will be planning
an official “RUCC Ride for Faith.” This will be a ride for
all abilities and may even include a picnic at the end.
You can talk to Bill Salinger or Jim Benshoof about the
details.
“Thank you for your congregation’s gift of $450.
Your gift helps us meet the rising demand for services
to the people who need them most. Our programs
provide struggling families with the tools and
resources they need to be strong and self-reliant.
Thanks to the hard work of our dedicated volunteers
and generous support from donors and congregations
like yours, we continue to expand our outreach and
enhance our services.”
The Mustard Seed • May 2015
9
“Sincere thanks for your recent gift
of $200 to the Northwest Suburban
Dinner At Your Door program. We are
a non-profit organization and rely on
donations such as yours so we can continue to provide
hot meals to shut-ins or people unable to cook for
themselves.”
“I am writing to express our appreciation for your $50
contribution to the Missions Inc. Home Free program
for battered women and their children. Our ongoing
effort to provide services and work effectively toward
ending domestic violence is possible only with the
generous support of individuals and organizations in
our community.”
“Thank you for
your generous gift
of
$200
to
Simpson Housing Services. We exist because of your
donation of time, talent and resources that help build a
supportive community of the thousands of individuals,
families and children we served each year.”
“Thank you for your
commitment
to
United Theological
Seminary of the Twin Cities’ efforts to empower our
students in developing the knowledge and skills
necessary to be transformational leaders in this
complex world. Your $350 annual fund gift makes
United’s mission psosible, and we are grateful for your
generosity.”
Giving has been
made so much easier.
Just take out your smart
phone and click on the
QR code and you will be taken directly to our giving
page on our website, or visit us at
www.robbinsdaleucc.org and look
for the giving tab and you’ll get there
as well. This would be a great way
to celebrate stewardship.
Remember to “Like” Robbinsdale United Church of
Christ the next time you are online. Updates and
reminders will be of great service to our
communication and mission. Friend RUCC today!
The Mustard Seed • May 2015
10
YOUTH
YEP - 2
YOUTH at RUCC
CHILDREN AND FAMILIES MINISTRY
RUCC YOUTH FUNDRAISER
Bible Adventures will happen through the month of
May and then we get to start the amazing program of
SUMMER ADVENTURES.
Saturday, May 23rd – YEP 2 Fundraising Dinner at
Parkway UCC
Ticket are $10 and proceeds help fund youth
scholarships. More information to follow.
We will celebrate this transition by honoring
teachers on May 17th and having a special role in the
125th Anniversary Picnic on June 7th.
The children and families vitality area will bring hot
dogs for the grill at the picnic. You bring dessert or
salad. We will eat inside and play games outside in the
warm sunshine! If you have any questions, talk with
Patty Miller or Barb Sisco.
Bible Adventures…
Please help us finish the school year. We need
teachers for Voyagers and for Trekkers. Sign up for
any number of Sundays or the entire month of May.
If you would like to teach or if you have any
comments or questions, please call or email Barb
Sisco (763.458.8808) [email protected]
Middle School Mission Trip Urban Immersion
July 19th – 22nd - Limit of 8 kids
This is going to be a great leadership building trip.
www.gmcc.org. This trip if for youth from 6th to 8th
grades. It will be right here in Minneapolis and the kids
will engage in direct service opportunities as a way to
grow in faith and serve others. They will also explore
some of the roots of poverty here at home.
Youth Mission Trip: UCC Ministry from the
North Shore to the Iron Range
August 7th – 14th
We are so blessed to engage in the mission of
three UCC congregations that have vibrant ministries
in Grand Marais, International Falls, and Hackensack,
MN. These congregations are deeply involved in their
communities and we will get to learn from them and
their communities. Although we have a wonderful
grant from the MN Conference, UCC Ashely Fund, we
would still love some sponsors for our youth. A gift of
over $50 enables a family at RUCC to receive special
communication during and following our trip. It is a way
for you to engage in this mission and get to know one
of our youth in a significant way.
The Mustard Seed • May 2015
11
LIFE of the CHURCH
On behalf of David Nordli and everyone involved in
music at RUCC, a big thank you for the generosity of
the congregation toward the Special Easter Offering
for the Music Fund. Just over $3,400 was
donated! We all appreciate your support of Music at
Robbinsdale UCC.
We still celebrate the timeless and ageless Good
News of God to relieve the suffering of people and
welcoming everyone into the new life Christ gives. For
the next year we will be engaged in worship and
mission related events surrounding this anniversary.
We will finish off our anniversary year with a 125th
Birthday Party here at Robbinsdale UCC on June 7th,
complete with a picnic lunch following the service. It
will also be a time to honor our 50 year members and
celebrate what has been a wonderful year of
celebration.
Mark your calendars now for this special event!
FROM YOUR BELOVED MINISTERIAL
INTERNS
From Laura:
Goodbye / Hello,
Happy 125th Anniversary
Robbinsdale United Church of Christ
Our Congregation held its first worship service on
June 14, 1889.
For 125 years we have been the faithful voice of the
people of Robbinsdale and the surrounding
communities. We have seen lots of change but many
things have also remained. Our active engagement in
the Social Gospel is still at the center of who we are.
I have learned a lot here in my internship. I have
made a lot of friendships that I hope shall continue
after I take off my internship hat and put my member
hat back on. I have honed a lot of skills, especially
writing. I have written sermons, and prayers and
everything in between.
I am overwhelmed by the care and generosity I
have received. I just needed to ask and help was
given. I thank every single person that has interacted
with me even if it was only for a few seconds. If I have
not interacted with you, know that it has nothing to do
with you and all to do with being on the go. I look
forward to making even more new friends as a
member.
The Mustard Seed • May 2015
12
I have learned that it is best to be your authentic
self. So that is the wisdom that I will pass on. Don't be
afraid to speak your truth. Don't silence your voice. In
all that you do be yourself. So goodbye to Laura as
intern and a hello to Laura renewing her role as a
member.
God's Blessings to you all,
Laura Cannata
_________________________________
From Moussa:
May is the last month of my internship and it is
thoroughly bittersweet. So much for the pity party!
Before I return to my studies and embark on future
ministry endeavors, I would like to serve Robbinsdale
United Church of Christ in two ways.
1.) One of my passions is being able to support
people who are primary caregivers for others. I
am offering a support group for those who care
for and nurture others on Mondays in May. For
those first three Mondays, we will be able to
share a potluck meal, share some stories, and
listen to one another.
We will begin Monday evening May 4th, at 7PM.
2.) My second project will be helping with the 125th
Anniversary folks to build an oral history of
Robbinsdale UCC. I will be interviewing several
seniors at RUCC about the justice work that
brought them to this faith community and has
sustained them on their journey. I would also
enjoy pairing a senior with a youth in order to
have this dialogue. Watch for the signs!
I leave you with ineffable unconditional love and
this proverb from the Black South: Every closed eye
ain't asleep, and every goodbye ain't gone.
Khalid Moussa Foster
evANGELism AND
MEMBERSHIP GROWTH
NEW WELCOME STATION
Tired of tripping over all of the sign up easels in the
narthex?? Wondering where and how to get involved
at RUCC?? Visit our new “welcome” station and find
all of the sign ups and activity information in one place.
Clip boards with sign-up sheets will accompany
information for Worship Leaders, Children’s Time,
Coffee Hour Treats, Bible Adventures, Special Events,
etc. For now we are going to use existing church
furniture for this purpose and are hoping that it will
bring our community closer together. We want your
feedback concerning this change. Call or email Lisa
Keske or Dawn Carlson Conn with your comments.
Thanks!!
SUNDAY MORNING COFFEE HOUR TREATS
Tim Hoppe came up with a wonderful idea – let’s
have a baking event to create cookies for the summer
coffee hours; doing the baking before it gets hot,
freezing them and enjoying one another’s company in
the process. If interested, please call Dawn Carlson
Conn (612-281-6515) or Theresa Hooper (612-2448671) and we’ll set a date. Flour, sugar, powdered
sugar and vanilla will be provided. Bring your favorite
cookie recipe (they freeze better than bars) and the
other ingredients needed and we’ll have fun!!! All ages
are invited!!
The Mustard Seed • May 2015
13
Just beneath the new member
photos in the narthex is a church
directory which contains photos
of all new members since 2012
AND pre-stamped “appreciate you” or “miss you” post
cards to send to those you haven’t seen lately at
church or to those to whom you want to send a note of
appreciation.
which is a great learning environment as well as
chance to meet with UCC people and churches from
all over the state!
Give me a call and we can discuss the time
commitment and options for personal growth.
CAPITAL CAMPAIGN COMMITTEE
FROM YOUR MODERATOR
Investing in the future for RUCC –
VICE-MODERATOR
As of yet, RUCC does not have a Vice-Moderator
and we are now 1/3 of the year through our church
year! The tradition has been to have alternating
men/women in the Vice-Moderator position as it has
also been the tradition to then have the ViceModerator serve following terms as Moderator and
then immediate Past-Moderator. Thus creating a three
year commitment.
The Vice-Moderator works with the Moderator,
Ministerial staff to assist in Coordinating Council needs
and manages meetings when Moderator is absent for
the monthly Council meetings. The Vice-Moderator
would also assist with vitality group activities and
coordination needs and act a resource for the vitality
group leaders. This is a tremendous opportunity for
someone willing to participate in the active directionsetting and management of RUCC!
The Vice-Moderator also is one of RUCC's
delegates to the MN Conference annual meeting,
We would like to have two more at-large members
of this important committee that is just getting going.
The only requirements are that you are a member of
RUCC and are willing to meet with various members
of the congregation to help determine priorities and
recommendations for inclusion in a new capital
campaign. We are estimating that this will be a two
year activity for most committee members. Currently
the following people have volunteered to participate in
this steering committee:
Don Smith, Moderator
Tracy Fluegel, Immediate Past Moderator
Cathy Kolwey
Tim Hoppe
Nathan Syverson
Jim Puffer
Another from Trustee Ministry (TBD)
Even if you cannot commit to being involved directly
with this coordinating committee, but want to have
input to the process or evaluations for our Capital
Campaign, please feel free to contact me as noted
below or through the office at any time.
Sincerely,
Don Smith
Moderator
email: [email protected]
home phone: 763-754-6086
The Mustard Seed • May 2015
14
TREASURER’S REPORT
As Church Treasurer, your Trustees and I believe it
is important to provide members of our church with
regular updates concerning pledges and the overall
budget. These reports will appear in our Mustard Seed
and always be brief and readable. That said, they will
occasionally include other information besides pledge
and overall budget updates.
Through the month of March, pledges received
total $64,231.80 compared to a budgeted figure of
$63,753.78. Through the month of March, our overall
budget includes revenues of $74,862.43 and
expenses of $75,933.07 leaving a balance of negative
$1,070.64.
Respectfully,
Dick Smith
DINNER AT YOUR DOOR
Thanks to all of the people who have helped with
this wonderful program. Delivering meals to our
seniors and shut-ins. You are appreciated by all of the
people in this program. Keep up the good work.
Thank you,
Keith Smith
SAVE THE DATE
RUCC at PILGRIM POINT
RENEW, RELAX, REFRESH
AUGUST 14-16, 2015
ALL ARE WELCOME!!!!!!!!!
Greetings and best wishes to all members and
friends of Robbinsdale United Church of Christ who
celebrate their birthdays in May.
Nathan Syverson.......................... May 2
Amanda Sonquist ......................... May 3
Bradley Welton ............................. May 3
Carol Ahlgren ............................... May 8
Andrea Hooper ............................. May 8
Jim Puffer ..................................... May 12
Lisa Stroessner ............................ May 12
Nathan Rock ................................ May 14
Erica Schultz ................................ May 17
Cesar Berra .................................. May 18
Stan Atkinson ............................... May 19
William Ihle ................................... May 19
Kaira Miller ................................... May 21
Rosaria Busch .............................. May 22
Finn Rogan................................... May 23
Guyle “Skip” Wills ......................... May 23
Amy Hodgson............................... May 24
Elizabeth Hosterman .................... May 24
Marty Petersen ............................. May 24
Azalea Cooey ............................... May 26
Gavin Schultz ............................... May 27
Eleanor Scott................................ May 30
Laura Dumont .............................. May 30
Charles Dumont ........................... May 31
Sophia Dumont ............................ May 31
The Mustard Seed • May 2015
15
goal of empowering conversation and actions around
environmental justice that will continue far beyond the
initial workshop.
Please keep these members and friends of RUCC in
your thoughts and prayers.
Sylvia Anderson
Amanda Busch
Rosaria Busch
Lorraine Dysart
Ken Evans
Kathy & Rodney Giddings
Dee Gustafson
Marion Hansen
Jean Hosterman
Kathy Keske
Robert Jensen
Tom Jensen
Curtis Johnson
Frank Koss
Donna Larsen
Bradley Lloyd
Bill & Nikki McKinley
Edith Middleton
Sandra Nelson
Leonard Sidle
Dale Swenson
SOCIAL
JUSTICE
Environmental Justice Training
May 27th - 29th @ Pilgrim Point
http://uccmn.org/events/conference-events/
How can people of faith work for environmental
justice for all? How can we create Dr. Martin Luther
King, Jr.’s beloved community – one that is
sustainable, healthy, and inclusive? This train-thetrainer workshop will explore these questions with the
When: Wednesday, May 27 at 5PM until Friday, May
29 at Noon
Where: Pilgrim Point Camps & Retreats, 2059
Pilgrim Point Rd NW, Alexandria, MN 56308
Cost: $90.00 (includes six meals, housing and
training/program)
Register: Online Registration Here!
Deadline to register: May 13, 2015
Questions? Email PPC&R Registrar, Zac
Norenberg, or call the Conference office at 612-8710359.
We are blessed so to have members who devote
time and energy to bring light and love to those in dark
places. Jim and Marsha Benshoof have done just that
by devoting their time and energy to those facing
deportation in our broken immigration system. Read
about their experience during their time in Tucson, AZ
Operation Streamline
Summary of experiences by Marsha and Jim
Benshoof from attending the court session in Tucson
on April 6, 2015.
Jim and I have been making an effort to become
more familiar with the issues surrounding the complex
immigration problems in our country. As part of this
process, we have done some reading; organized a
The Mustard Seed • May 2015
16
three part educational series for our church in
Minnesota; attended a program to learn about the
current immigration laws and possible legislative
changes; and watched the documentary “Which Way
Home,” which focuses on the unaccompanied minors
who are crossing the borders. As part of our learning
process, we decided to attend a session of the
Operation Streamline court proceedings on April 6,
2015.
Operation Streamline began in 2005 to establish
zero tolerance zones along the US/Mexican border.
Migrants face criminal prosecution for entering the
country illegally. As the court session began, there
were approximately 70-75 men and 4-5 women seated
in the courtroom facing prosecution for “illegal entry or
re-entry.” Also present were approximately 10-12
attorneys. The migrants were called up to the front of
the courtroom in groups of eight and their attorneys
stood with them. Most of the migrants were wearing
headsets for translation to Spanish. The migrants were
handcuffed with their wrists shackled to their waists. In
addition, they wore ankle shackles and chains.
One by one, the presiding judge, Magistrate Judge
Bernardo Velasco, asked them if they were agreeing
to waive their right to a jury trial and to plead guilty to
illegal entry or re-entry. Most answered in Spanish and
all did plead guilty. Then they were immediately
sentenced for a range of detention time ranging from
30-180 days. After sentencing each individual, the
judge moved to the next person. When the group of
eight had completed this process, they were directed
by federal marshals to exit the courtroom. The judge
would then call up the next group of eight and the
process started again. The group of migrants included
about 10 from Guatemala and the rest were from
Mexico.
The attorneys spoke occasionally to state the
migrant’s preference to be detained in a facility at
another location, probably nearer to family. Some
locations mentioned included San Jose, California,
Texas, and Illinois. One attorney spoke up saying that
her client had just now informed her that he had reason
to request asylum in the US.
When the entire group of migrants had pled guilty,
were sentenced, and removed from the courtroom,
Judge Velasco came to speak to those of us observing
the proceedings. There were two other couples thereone from Tucson who described themselves as
“flaming liberals,” and another couple from Green
Valley who are active in the Samaritan group. We
learned from the judge that the length of the sentences
varied among the migrants due to how many times
they had tried to enter the US previously. The judge
stated that this entire group had all tried to enter the
US in the past at least once. The judge told us that
they serve their sentence and then are sometimes
forced to wait until a chartered plane is available to
take them to their country. He said that is what would
happen to the people from Guatemala.
When asked what is the purpose of the jail
sentence—is it an attempt to deter people from
crossing the border?—the judge said that is the
purpose. However, the judge believes that people will
continue to try to enter the US as long as they are so
impoverished that they aren’t able to feed their
families. He also stated that many of the migrants
present today have families in the US. The judge told
us that the migrants were able to meet with their
attorneys for a short time the morning of the court
proceedings.
As I reflect upon this observation experience, my
overwhelming observation is of the “brokenness” that
The Mustard Seed • May 2015
17
I witnessed. The migrants appeared dejected,
demeaned, and resigned. The attorneys only had a
few minutes to do their best to understand each client
they represented and speak to them about the court
proceeding. The entire immigration process of the
United States is broken. My spirit felt broken while I
watched the court process. There are unanswered
questions for Jim and me surrounding the
border/immigration issues--Why not a more open
border? Why can’t there be Mexican citizens who
come to the US to work and help their families out of
their desperate poverty? Why were these migrants in
chains when their only “crime” was to cross our
border?
ProMex Group, which provides micro lending to
entrepreneurs in Nogales, Mexico to help achieve a
successful business and better financial stability.
Marsha Benshoof
NON RUCC ACTIVITIES
THRIVENT FINANCIAL EDUCATION
SERIES AT COPPERFIELD HILL
Pastor Delle asked me what is the “good news” that
begs to be shared here? That’s a very difficult question
to answer.
Copperfield Hill, along with Thrivent Financial is
hosting a three-part educational series, free and open
to the public. These are the last two classes. Contact
Charlotte Hoes at 763.277.1008 with any questions.
Should hope rise from brokenness? I saw only
glimmers of hope but I will try to describe them. The
perseverance of one of the observers to attempt to
meet the eye of each migrant and provide
acknowledgement of he or she as a person, not just a
detainee, as he or she left the courtroom. The ability
of the judge to communicate his belief to us that the
desperation of poverty is what drives the migrants to
continue to attempt to cross the border. The interest of
six people to be a witness to the proceedings.
Savvy Social Security – Filing Strategies
Thursday, April 30th at 6pm and
Saturday, May 2nd at 10am
This workshop covers the basics of Social Security
and reveals strategies for maximizing your benefits,
including five factors to consider when deciding when
to apply for benefits, how to minimize taxes on Social
Security benefits, and how to coordinate Social
Security with your other sources of retirement income.
One outcome of our observation of Operation
Streamline, is that Jim and I are more determined than
ever to continue to support organizations that try to
address the root causes of poverty so that people don’t
have a desperate need to make the hazardous trip to
the United States. Two examples are Common Hope,
which works in Guatemala to increase the high school
graduation rates to increase earning potential and help
break the cycle of poverty. Another organization is
Income Taxes in Retirement - Retirement & Estate
Strategies
Thursday, May 14th at 6pm and
Saturday, May 16th at 10am
This presentation will cover information on income
taxes in retirement. Thrivent will also share strategies
on how to accumulate and distribute money for
retirement, how to pass money to heirs or charities in
a tax-wise manner, and tips for increasing the
probability of investment success.
4200 Lake Road ~ Robbinsdale, MN 55422
763.537.6965 ~ www.robbinsdaleucc.org ~ email: [email protected]
Vol. 43, Issue 5, May 2015 Edition
~ May 2015 ~
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday Thursday
Friday
2
7
8
9
14
15
16
YEP-2 Lock-In
3
4
Worship 10AM – Rev. T. Quilting 5PM-9PM
Michael Rock preaching
(quilt raffle tkts for sale) Caregiver Support
Group 7PM
RUCC Cabaret 11AM
10
11
Worship 10AM – Interns, Caregiver Support
Laura Cannata &
Group 7PM
Moussa Foster
preaching
(quilt raffle tkts for sale)
Bible & Beverages 8PM
at Big Louie’s in Crystal
17
5
6
Directory Photos taken
Saturday
1
Bell Choir 5:45PM
Chancel Choir 7:15PM
Lord of the Rings Bible
Study Movie Night 7PM
Men’s Breakfast Group
7:30AM
Lord of the Rings Bible
Study 6PM
12
13
Adolescent Mental
Health Presentation &
Discussion 7PM
Drumming & Story
Telling with Gayan
Gregory Long 6PM
Pilgrim Guild Potluck
12noon
Bell Choir 5:45PM
Chancel Choir 7:15PM
Faith in Film 7PM: Rent
Trustees 6:30PM
18
19
20
21
22
23
25
26
27
28
29
30
Worship 10AM - Rev. T. Caregiver Support
Michael Rock preaching Group 7PM
(quilt raffle drawing)
Dinner at Your Door
Bell Choir 5:45PM
Chancel Choir 7:15PM
YEP-2 Fundraising
Dinner @ Parkway UCC
Pilgrim Guild Plant &
Bake Sale
24
Worship 10AM – guest
preacher Cathy Kolwey
Caregiver Support
Group 7PM
Coordinating Council
7PM
Bell Choir 5:45PM
Chancel Choir 7:15PM
Bible & Beverages 8PM
at Big Louie’s in Crystal
31
Worship 10AM - Rev. T.
Michael Rock preaching
Notes: All events are at RUCC unless otherwise noted.
The Mustard Seed • May 2015
19
2015 PRESS RELEASE
April 23, 2015
Robbinsdale United Church of Christ receives a Vital Worship Grant
from the Calvin Institute of Christian Worship
Robbinsdale United Church of Christ (UCC) has received a Vital Worship Grant from the Calvin
Institute of Christian Worship (CICW) in Grand Rapids, Mich.
The grant will fund a year-long project in which Robbinsdale UCC will seek to opens hearts and
deepen our understanding of Communion and how this sacrament can reveal God’s grace and create
new life, thereby renewing our lives as a congregation and as individuals following the Risen Christ. It
is one of 29 grants totaling more than $300,000 awarded for 2015 by CICW to churches and schools
across North America.
“We learn a tremendous amount from these programs,” said CICW director John Witvliet, “from the
wisdom demonstrated in designing them and the insights gleaned from implementing and adapting
them as they unfold. We look forward to sharing insights from these projects with a larger audience in
our future programming over the next several years."
Local leaders of the Robbinsdale UCC project are grateful for their grant and eager to get started with
their project. “On the heels of celebrating 125 years of ministry, Robbinsdale UCC is excited to have
this grant for deepening our understanding of communion,” said Marc W Blakesley, Project
Administrator, for the Robbinsdale UCC grant. “We have plans for various conversation and learning
opportunities for our congregation and with other faith communities. Starting with small conversation
groups this summer and culminating in a grand ecumenical Pentecost Celebration for the wider community in
May 2016, we will have diverse opportunities for table fellowship and holy conversation. For more tactical folks,
there will be bread baking, grape stomping, and pottery opportunities during the year long grant cycle.”
“This year,” said Kathy Smith, leader of the Vital Worship Grants Team, “CICW approved proposals
from 15 denominations, 18 states and one Canadian province, 25 congregations and church plants,
two regional church bodies, and two college and seminary communities.” An advisory board of pastors
and teachers from a variety of backgrounds gave valuable assistance in the grant selection process.
For the 2015 grant recipients, learning will begin in earnest this June when project directors for all the
new grants gather on Calvin’s campus to dialogue not only with CICW staff, but also with the
recipients of the 2013 grants, who will come to campus to share the results of their year-long projects.
“We look forward to a collaborative time of worshiping and learning together,” said Smith, “and trust
that the stories people share will energize and encourage everyone for their own ministries.”
The Vital Worship Grants Program is generously supported by Indianapolis-based Lilly Endowment
Inc. Founded in 1937, the Endowment’s major areas of concern are community development,
education, and religion.
For more information on the grants program, including a complete list of this year’s grants recipients,
please see: www.calvin.edu/worship.
The Mustard Seed • May 2015
20
Please place all articles for the next
issue of The Mustard Seed in the box
marked “Mustard Seed”
on the shelf inside the door to the
workroom in the church office or
email to Annette Johnson at:
[email protected]
Do You Facebook?
Remember to “Like” Robbinsdale
United Church of Christ the next time you are
online. Updates and reminders will be of great
service to our communication and mission.
Friend RUCC today!
When was the last time you checked out
our website at www.robbinsdaleucc.org?
Our webmaster, Nathan Syverson,
continues to create some wonderful new links
and updates as we learn to tell our story.
We are also asking folks to take pictures of
church events and people.
If you have ideas about the website
or would like to be one of our official
photographers, please email Nathan at
[email protected]