November 2014
“Since we are surrounded by so great a
cloud of witnesses . . .”
As churches go, Lord of Life is pretty
young. We will be 33 years old on November 15.
We are also a (how shall I say) mature community engaged in the third
chapter of life. Some of us still work,
most are retired or retiring and, with few
exceptions, we are a single-generation
congregation. Our “youth group” starts at
55!
This presents some unique opportunities and challenges.
We have an active, energetic and
motivated congregation. We have the
one thing that our kids and grandkids
don’t have: TIME. Time to volunteer;
time to study and teach; time for fellowship and recreation; time to care for one
another. We live-out LOL’s vision statement every time you and I participate in
the life of the church. “Retirement is not
our mindset but rejuvenation and transformation.”
This also presents a challenge. Because this isn’t our parents’ church and
because we’re not leaving LOL to our
children and grandchildren we might be
inclined to see LOL as our church home
today, without the perspective of the
past, present and future. And we might
see ourselves as transitory tenants instead of steadfast stewards who have
been entrusted with a gift to use, enjoy
and safeguard for those who follow.
Our lives are shaped by those who
came before us and we will shape the
lives of those who follow. We are part of
the communion of saints and that community extends through our doors and
around the world; it also encompasses
all the saints who came before and all
those that, in time, will follow. We are
surrounded in space and time by a great
cloud of witnesses.
Lord of Life has a very visible reminder of that great cloud of witnesses:
the Columbarium. Every time I walk from
my office to the Sanctuary I am reminded
of all the saints who have lived and died
in the faith and now rest from their labors. I am reminded that “we do not live
to ourselves and we do not die to ourselves. If we live, we live to the Lord, and
if we die, we die to the Lord.” I am also
reminded that my successors will walk
by the same Columbarium and remember you and me in that great cloud of
witnesses.
What legacy do we leave the next
generation? Lord of Life is a multigenerational church insofar as we are
stewards of the gifts we have been
given, we are fully engaged in the mission today and we pass on the gifts of
ministry to those who will follow. We are
not tenants who will turn in the keys; we
are stewards who have been entrusted
with a gift.
You will soon receive a letter and a
“faith pledge” to complete. That pledge is
between you and God. No one else sees
it. As you pray and consider your pledge
I encourage you to embrace your stewardship and remember all the saints:
those who have gone before, those in
our world today and the generation that
will follow. We have been given so
much . . . can we give even more to the
Lord of Life?
Pastor Beyer
Dust off that good old “When I Used to Cook”
cookbook and get your oven going. We’ll have an
old fashion Lutheran Potluck Harvest Celebration on
Sunday, November 16 at 5:30 pm in the Social Hall.
This will not be just an “appetizer” potluck but we’ll
be looking for salads, hot dishes and desserts. Beverages and paper products will be supplied.
Monthly Activity
Schedule
(If no contact person is listed, call the
church office for more information. )
Eye-Opener Bible Study
Wednesday, 7:30 am
All are welcome to attend this lively
conversation on the texts for the
coming weekend.
Men’s Breakfast Bible
Study
Thursday, 7:00 am
Coco’s in Sun City Grand
(corner of Sunrise Blvd. & Clearview)
Contact: Ed Dregalla, 374-3354
Lord of Life University
Lord of Life University is beginning another school
year in a BIG way. Or should we say Small Catechism
way? On Wednesday evening from 6:30 - 7:30 the pastors are going to teach
Confirmation Class. Learn (or re-learn) Luther’s Small Catechism, complete
with memory verses but minus the public test in front of the congregation!
What does this mean? We should fear and love God that we may not despise preaching and His Word, but hold it sacred, and gladly hear and learn it.
Memory Tips
Another Memory Tips session is scheduled for
Thursday, November 13 and 20 from 9:00 to 11:00
am. This is a very popular class and seating is limited. You must call the church office (623-5842000) to register and please plan to attend both
classes.
Food Bank Brigade
This ministry will resume working
the second and fourth Saturday of
each month. Hours are 9:00 am 11:00 am at Valley View Food Bank,
10615 W Peoria, Sun City. For more
info contact Dean Fardal at 5845151.
Memory
Tips
Columbarium Repair
Bible Readings
For November
 November 2
Revelations 7:9-17
1 John 3:1-3
Matthew 5:1-12
 November 9
Amos 5:18-24
1 Thessalonians 2:9-13
Matthew 23:1-12
 November 16
Zephaniah 1:7, 12-18
1 Thessalonians 5:1-11
Matthew 25:14-30
 November 23
Ezekiel 34:11-16, 20-24
Ephesians 1:15-23
Matthew 25:31-46
We are making some necessary repairs and upgrades to the Columbarium. Would
you consider a memorial gift to help cover the cost?
The first and most immediate repair is to remove and replace loose and broken
tiles. That work is underway and should be complete by the time you read this article.
The next phase is to repaint the roof and pergola. The third and most extensive
phase is to reposition the drains in the Columbarium and redirect rainwater away from
the Columbarium. The drains are not located at the lowest point and that means that
water builds-up and must be swept to the drain or allowed to evaporate. Over time that
standing water may loosen and stain the tile. It may also create a slip-hazard for those
who visit the Columbarium.
The current tile replacement and overhead painting will cost about $4,000. If we
reposition the drains that will cost an additional $11,000. Memorials to the Columbarium will be recognized in the church bulletin and Lifelines, as well as the Memorial
Book at the entrance of the Sanctuary.
Lord of Life Golf League
You are invited to join the Lord of Life Monday Morning
Golf League. We rotate on the three executive courses in
Sun City West all year around. All levels of golfers are welcome! Please contact Harold Allen at 623-466-9942 or
Steve Smith at 623-777-1260. Let’s have a good time!
- -page 2 - -
November Gratitude Gift: Adopt-A-Family
The Adopt-A-Family Christmas
Program has become a tradition at
Lord of Life. It offers members the opportunity of reach out to the community
to help children and families in
need. Lord of Life will again this year
assist 75 families in our area that they
may share with us in a more joyous
Christmas season.
Families are chosen from Dysart
Thompson Ranch Elementary (our
partnership school) and from Pan de
Vida Lutheran Church in El Mirage.
Each family receives clothing and toys
for each child under 14 and each senior living in the home. The program
also provides a $50 food certificate
from Coury's Food City. Lord of Life
Quilters provide a quilt for each family.
The weekend of November 15 and
16 will offer members the opportunity
to choose individual children or
an entire family in order to purchase
gifts. The green wooden Christmas
tree will be located in the Courtyard or
in the Narthex from which to choose
names. When selecting names, members should be sure to register that name with the volunteers,
including your name and phone number.
Name cards attached to the tree are color coded with pink for
girls, blue for boys, and green for seniors. Included on the card
From...

Navajo Evangelical Lutheran Mission

John & Jan Miller

Keith Vinje & Nancy Holmboe

Pam Steber (Habitat recipient. See
note
)

Dysart Community Center

Roger & Beverly Anderson (See
note
)
are names, ages, and sizes. These
cards should be attached to the gifts
as identification when they are returned by December 14.
These name cards are helpful in
shopping for children and seniors. The
usual gift for each person is an item of
clothing and a toy, book, jewelry, puzzle, or a sports item. Gifts should be
wrapped and clearly identified by securing the name card on the outside of
the gift.
Boxes will be available in the Narthex and the Social Hall for you to
place your wrapped gifts beginning on
November 17. All gifts should be returned to church no later than December 14.
Food certificates are purchased
with money donated through the November Gratitude Gifts. Donations for
that are most appreciated.
If there are any questions or concerns, please contact Harry or Elaine
Jebsen by calling 623-547-7410 or emailing [email protected].
Christmas offers us an opportunity
to share our many blessings by being a blessing to others. The
joy and gratitude of these families we help will bring special
meaning to each of our lives.
To the Lord of Life Church,
It was a pleasure to meet
Karen and Chuck Nelson.
Thank you so very much for
all of the Kitchen and handmade items you gifted me for
my new Habitat Home.
Your kindness is appreciated and has helped fill my
home with love!
Thank you for blessing
my new home and my family
with your thoughtfulness.
Kindest Regards,
Pam Steber
- -page 3 - -
To our Lord of Life Family,
Thank you so much for recognizing the 20th Anniversary of Roger’s
installation as Lord of Life’s second
Senior Pastor.
The reception was most gracious.
Receiving the warm greetings of so
many touched our hearts. Special
thanks to Pastor Beyer for his kind
and thoughtful words and for all who
participated in planning and presenting the reception on Sunday morning.
Lord of Life’s welcome to us in
1994 was Christian love personified.
You remain truly a “welcoming place.”
Bless you for it. Our deepest thanks
and our love.
In Christ,
Roger and Beverly
Anderson
SOLOS
SOLOS is the name of our singles
group for all ages. We enjoy getting together for good conversation and having
fun. We usually go to lunch after church
services on the third Sunday of every
month. On Sunday, November 16,
12:00 pm, we will be meeting at the
China City Buffet, 18885 N Reems Rd.,
Surprise. Please sign up around worship services or in the church office.
We would love to have you join us.
Collections
Congratulations to
the members of Lord of
Life. In September you
responded with 330
pounds of food and
$760.00 cash for the Food Bank. Thank
you for your response to their continual
need.
Electronic Giving
Just a friendly reminder,
Electronic Giving is available to you. Your donation
can be set up on the
church website at
www.lolaz.org or you can scan the code
at the bottom of the yellow sheet to get
directly to the donation site, we also
have included it here. If you are more
comfortable, forms are available here at
the office, and our accountant can set
everything up for you. This method might
be easier for you, with no check writing
this allows your contribution to continue
even if you’re not able to get to church.
Please be a part of our new family
directory. We need you to make our family album complete.
You may sign up between services in
the Social Hall entry or call Ellie Lasiter
at 623-594-9880 to make an appointment.
The Call Committee for the Calling of a Full Time Associate Pastor for Lord of Life Lutheran Church, ELCA, Sun City
West, Arizona, having followed the prescribed procedures of
the ELCA for its mandate and having done so with the conviction that all proceedings were under the guidance of the
Holy Spirit, by unanimous consensus do hereby strongly
recommend to the Congregational Council that a Call be issued for the stipulated position to the Reverend Kimberly Mae Sterner along with all compensation and benefits
commensurate with that position. We further recommend that this be passed on for the
approval of the total Congregation of Lord of Life.
There will be a Special Congregation
Meeting on Sunday, November 16 at
5:00 pm (preceding the Harvest Celebration) to Call Rev. Kim Sterner as Associate Pastor for Lord of Life Lutheran
Church.
Thoughts from the President...
All are Welcome! That was one of
the themes we heard at worship this
summer. We welcomed 18 new members in October. They attended sessions
to learn about the Lutheran Church at
large and Lord of Life Lutheran Church
specifically. We also welcome back Arizona winter residents. It’s time to catch
up on summer adventures and plan getto-gathers; renewing friendships.
We have now returned to three services each weekend. The events calendar at Lord of Life is full of opportunities
to gather for worship, fellowship, education, and service. For the next 4 weekends there are special events happening. Watch for events in the yellow announcement sheet each weekend and in
the monthly LifeLines; tickets go fast.
(This must be Party City)
Faith Pledge Weekend is November
15 and 16. At each service we can leave
our Faith Pledge to God in the trays
available at the front of the church when
you go to communion. God calls us to
reflect on treasures He has given us and
respond to his ministries. Then on Sunday evening, November 16, we will
gather for our Harvest Celebration. This
is a time for us to reflect on the blessings
we have received and the ministries we
have supported. God is sooo good!
The Council has formed two new
committees this summer. The Arts Com- -page 4 - -
mittee is working with Gloria
Lien, Director of Music, to
support her in scheduling a
variety of programs for us;
set fees, and to oversee
campus esthetics. The Ad
Hoc Benevolence Committee recommended the formation of a Benevolence Committee and
a process for them to follow when making budget operating benevolence recommendations to the Council. These
committees give us greater input and
work hard to consider the many requests
we receive from artists and charities.
The Council has approved a recommendation from the Call Committee,
after following the Call process, to Call
Pastor Kim Sterner as the Associate
Pastor for Lord of Life. How great is that?
Pastor Steve and Pastor Kim have already proven to be a great team to shepherd us. Your input has been very supportive of this decision so far and you are
invited to a special Congregation Meeting on November 16 at the Harvest Celebration to vote on her Call. We have
prayed for the Holy Spirit to guide us to
the person he wants at Lord of Life. The
Holy Spirit is indeed working at Lord of
Life!
Carolyn Garry
Congregation President
Music at Lord of Life
Lorraine Miller
in Concert Sunday,
November 23 at 2:30
If Lorraine wasn’t
born at the organ, she
certainly grew up on it
and has never left it
since then. Music has
always been her life,
her passion and her
prayer. Her burning
desire has always been to lead others to
God through her music. Her concerts are
fun, exciting and dramatic; an experience
you won’t forget. She explains the music
thoroughly so that we know better how to
listen. For this reason, Lorraine is one of
the Valley’s favorite organist. Come for
an afternoon of enjoyment. Freewill offering.
Visitation Choir
This group will meet on Thursday,
November 6 and will visit Grandview
Care Center and Lucy Anne’s Place.
Then on Thursday, November 20 they
will sing at the Madison House and
Brookdale (formerly Alterra Claire
Bridge).
Come and join in the fun singing music of the 40’s, 50’s and 60’s. Meet in the
Courtyard at 9:50 am and then carpool.
Lord of Life’s
Got Talent
Regina Cirillo and Bonnie Siegel are
organizing a concert to showcase the
talents of Lord of Life members. The
concert date is January 11, 2015 so
there is plenty of time to consider sharing
your talent! There will be more info to
come, so watch the bulletins and LifeLines!
Sunday, November 23 at the 8:30 and 10:30 am services,
Lord of Life will host another “Mass Choir.” This is Christ the
King Sunday and you are invited to sing with the Lord of Life
choirs for a one-time event to perform the “Hallelujah Chorus” from Handel’s “Messiah.”
There will be rehearsals on Wednesday, November 19 at 3:00 pm and Thursday,
November 20 at 2:30 pm. You only need to attend one of the rehearsals but are welcome at both.
Do you know any friends who are not currently involved in a church choir, from outside our church or any church? This would be a wonderful opportunity to invite those
friends to simply come and join us in a wonderful piece of music on a special day and
introduce them to our choir and church.
Concert Series
Be sure to pick up a
Lord of Life Concert
Series Brochure. We
have a wonderful array of talent scheduled for your enjoyment. There are still
eight more concerts
that will entertain
you with a variety
of vocal and instrumental music.
 Sunday, November 23, 2:30 pm
Organ Concert by Lorraine Miller
 Sunday, December 7, 3:00 pm
Spirit of Phoenix Barbershop Chorus
 Sunday, January 11, 2:30 pm - Lord
of Life’s Got Talent!
 Sunday, January 25, 2:30 pm - Organ Concert by Susan Clambey
 Sunday, February 15, 7:00 pm Centennial Singers
 Sunday, March 8, 2:30 pm - Piano
Concert by Glenn Henricksen
 Friday, April 24, 7:00 pm - Organ
Concert by Marek Kudlicki
 Sunday, May 3, 2:30 pm - Organ
Concert by Gloria Lien
Special Outing to the Arizona Opry
Get your tickets right away for the “Best of
Broadway” production at Barleens Arizona
Opry. A group from Lord of Life will be
treated to a motorcoach trip, great four
course meal including dessert, coffee or tea,
and musical entertainment. The date is
Wednesday, January 21, 2015. The motorcoach will depart Lord of Life at 11:00 am
and return at approximately 6:30 pm. Cost is
$56.00 per person for the transportation, driver’s gratuity, performance and full meal
with gratuity. Tickets are limited so make your reservation through the church office.
Tickets must be paid for at the time of reservation. No telephone reservations, please.
- -page 5 - -
The Lord of Life Handbell Choir,
JuBELLation, recently performed for a
special event at the Del Webb Hospital
Courtyard.
Community Outreach
Thompson Ranch
Here is a list of supplies requested
by the school:
 #2 wooden pencils
 3-holed punched notebook paper
wide and college rule
 70-100 page spiral notebooks
 reams of copy paper
 wide rule composition books
 pocket folders
 colored markers (8-12 colors)
 boxes of tissues
 3x5 index cards.
 As you grocery shop watch for Box
Tops for Education items.
Hats, mittens and scarves As the
weather cools, crossing guards have
mittens and hats to give to the children
who do not have appropriate clothing for
the weather. Please put your donations
in the Thompson Ranch bin in the hallway.
To volunteer contact: Jeanne Welborn, [email protected] or 623-5442440 or download a form at
www.dysart.org.
Tutoring at Pan de Vida
Tutoring began again in October. If
you are interested in being a tutor or a
substitute tutor contact Joan Janis
([email protected]) or Jan Yetter
([email protected]). Tutors who are proficient in math as taught in schools today
are especially needed.
Tax Credit
Forms for our
local schools
are available
on the counters in the
Narthex.
Nadaburg School
Supplies Needed
A box has been placed in the Social
Hall to receive needed items such as
copy paper, lined notebook paper, #2
pencils, dry erase markers, crayons and
tissues. Thanks to all those who have
already given and thank you in advance
to all who will give.
Volunteers Needed
There are many opportunities available to volunteer, both in the classroom
and elsewhere. Contact Jack Sellers at
623-584-2049 or [email protected] to
discuss this rewarding activity.
Navajo Lutheran
Mission News
There are many positive changes happening right now. The mission competed and
was awarded a grant for education-based
technology. Installation is now underway of
servers, hard-wiring, and equipment to support new phone, internet, computer lab, wireless access, inter-office communication and
digital TV. The computer lab has been upgraded with new wall and floor treatments
and upgraded electrical circuitry to support
the new equipment.
Donations have been received to fund
$50,000 for desks, chairs, workstations and a
teacher’s monitoring station not eligible for
funding through the grant but needed to get
the optimum benefits from the new systems.
The grand opening of the computer lab is
scheduled for November 3. Ahehee’ (Thank
You) to all who have assisted with donated
labor and funds.
Kate Adelman, formerly Director of Development, will serve as interim Director of the
mission until a permanent replacement for
Rev. Lynn and Rev. Deb Hubbard is hired by
the Board of Directors. A major project to
update the apartments for guests and volunteers coming to the mission is now in the
planning stages
The House of Prayer, a congregation of
the ELCA is a Cross-Cultural Ministry of the
Grand Canyon Synod. The House of Prayer
serves the community of Rock Point, spanning the diversity of cultural and spiritual
expressions through faithful dialog rooted in
the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
- -page 6 - -
Lord of Life supports Habitat for Humanity in many ways. The West Valley
Coalition of Lutheran Churches will be
providing Help in the construction of a
home in Peoria.
Lord of Life has been sending a team
of volunteer builders in support of these
buildings for many years. If you are available to participate in this effort please
contact Bob O’Neill at 623-451-5694 for
details and schedules. No prior construction experience is necessary. Both men
and women are invited to help.
We normally meet in the front parking
lot of Lord of Life at 6:30 am and return
Lord of Life member Ruth Fardal creates homemade needle craft art for Habitat recipients. This adds a special touch
to every new home.
Lutheran Thrift Shop
At this writing, there are only 7 more
Fridays until Christmas! Are you ready?
At the Lutheran Thrift Shop, we’re all
geared up for the winter holidays. We
have Christmas trees in every size and
variety, tons of ornaments, crafted
wreaths, tablecloths, Christmas cards,
music, candles, and the list goes on.
Shop early while the selection is best
and get everything you need for Christmas at great prices.
Ho, Ho, Ho! Hope to see you soon!
Lutheran Thrift Shop
10737 West Peoria Ave., Sun City
Book Discussion
Group
From the Library Shelves
“Born To Fly” is Shane Osborn’s story of the EP-3
Aries II reconnaissance plane that was torn in two on
April 1, 2001, when it collided with a Chinese F-8
fighter plane. This began the first international political
crisis of the new Bush administration as each superpower blamed the other for the disaster. Osborn now
lives in Anacortes, WA, was born in South Dakota,
raised in Nebraska, and was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for heroism and extraordinary achievement in flight. Location:
CE115
 Jan Cleere has done extensive research into the history of Arizona women. In
“Levis and Lace: Arizona Women Who Made History” she presents these categories to tell about more than 35 amazing women: Women of the land, women who
healed and saved, women entrepreneurs, women who educated, women of the
arts, and women of the law. Location: BIO C14B
 An unabridged CD production of “The Twelve Tribes of Hattie” is delightfully presented by three different readers who weave together twelve threads of a family’s
life. Fifteen-year old Hattie Shepherd flees Georgia in 1923 to settle in Philadelphia, hoping for a better life. Nine of her 11 children survive, and Hattie vows to
prepare them for life in a world that will not love them. Location: Audio-Fiction
AF029
 Motivational speaker, Mary Catherine Carwile shares stories from cancer survivors, as well as those who no longer live with cancer, in “Heartstrings And Pink
Ribbons: Finding Comfort Until There’s a Cure.” Mary, an eight year cancer survivor, also tells her own story and the reactions of her family and friends. She seeks
to help the “one in eight women,” as well as men who will contract this disease.
Location: Ages, Diseases, Dying HC113

Greetings and Happy Fall
from the Book Club!
We hope all book lovers
will come to our next meeting on November 24 to discuss “The
Forgotten” by David Balducci. All are
welcome. We meet once a month, on the
last Monday of the month at church beginning at 10:00 am. “The Forgotten” is a
terrific story about human trafficking that
keeps you in suspense. We should have
a lively discussion.
As of now we do not have the book
list ready for 2015 but we should have
one ready by the November meeting. It
will be printed in the December church
newsletter.
The book for December is called
“Girls” by Lori Lansens, a great piece of
fiction, which grabs you from the first
page. It tells the story of twins born
joined at the head and how they lived. It
is so well told I thought it was nonfiction! I hope you get to read this story.
Hope to see you in November.
If you have any questions please contact Rita Boyd, 972-742-6532 or email at
[email protected].
Lord of Life Quilters
In recent weeks the quilters at Lord of Life have donated 46
full size quilts, 10 baby quilts, some hand knitted mittens, hats
and sweaters to the Navajo Lutheran Mission at Rock Point.
Thanks to Edna and Ray Bizzigotti for making this delivery. Lis
Trent delivered baby quilts for the Blessing Basket Project, lap
robes and full size quilts to the Hayden VA Hospital in Phoenix. After being displayed on the backs of the pews the first
weekend of October 170 Pocket Pal Quilts were donated to
Carol DeAmbra, Alice
Child Protective Services for children in foster care under their
Maul and Jan Yetter
supervision.
decorated the Sanctuary.
Thanks to all the quilters who lovingly made these quilts, to
Thrivent Financial whose grant of $1,200 and to the W-ELCA
unit at Lord of Life’s whose
generous gifts financed the
Pocket Pal Quilts. Thanks also to congregational members who have donated sheets, blankets
and mattress pads.
Quilting meets from 8:30 am - 12:00 pm on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of each month usually in the Social Hall Annex. You don’t have to be an experienced quilter to find a task that is just
right for you: cutting, sewing, tying, preparing fabric for use and designing quilts. New quilters
are always welcome. For more information contact Carol DeAmbra ([email protected])
or Jan Yetter ([email protected]).
- -page 7 - -
From Pastor Kim Sterner
“I thank my God every time I remember
you.” Phil. 1:3
COME TO THE FAIR
The Volunteer/Activity Fair will be a good
way to learn about or rediscover all the
ways to be involved in the life of our congregation. There are many ways to learn,
to reach out to others, to enjoy fellowship
and make new friends.
IN WORSHIP
 Being a lector, acolyte, greeter
 Serving on Altar Guild
 Singing in a choir, playing bells
 Sharing instrumental skills
 Serving as a Communion Assistant
REACHING OUT TO OTHERS
Food Bank, Thrift Shop, Gleaning
Volunteer at a school, Grace Luth.
Quilting, Telephone Ministry
Prayer Chain
Greeting Card Ministry





FELLOWSHIP AND FUN
Arts and Entertainment Group
Bowling, Golf, Mah Jongg,
Dinner Groups
SOLOS Group




LEARNING
Men’s Bible Study Group
Book Club
W-ELCA and Circles
Eye Opener Bible Study
LOL University
Mark your calendars and plan to Come
to the Fair. See you in the Courtyard
November 8 & 9!





“It was the best of times it was the worst
of times.” Charles Dickens
One week I am celebrating the 28th
Anniversary of my Ordination and the
next weekend we are having the Funeral
Service for my mother. The plan God
has for us does include times of joy and
celebration as well as times of sorrow
and mourning. Lord of Life knows how to
move from one to the other. For that I am
grateful.
First let me thank you for that wonderful party we had on the 5th of October!
Thanks to the Pastors for cutting and
serving the cake! Thanks to Fran and her
team for the beautiful cakes and all the
work setting things up. Thanks for all the
well wishes and support I felt in that celebration.
And second, I thank you all from the bottom of my heart for the outpouring of
sympathy and understanding as my sisters and I said good-bye to our mother
on the 8th of October. For me to be here
in the midst of you at this time has been
such a gift. I can learn from you as you
share your stories of grieving with me.
And I am blessed that we can move together toward the peace and acceptance
that does come. Thank you for that.
Thank you for your help in that journey.
Bitter sweet is how so many refer to
this time of death and that is how it feels.
My mother was so ready to “see the angels” that letting go was a sweet gift; no
more suffering, no more pain, no more
anxiety. The bitter part being now I am
left without her. There is a hole in my
heart, and a vacuum in my life but I know
that this will change; I will heal over time.
Grieving comes in waves. There are
times I am overcome and I surrender to
grief, hang my head and cry. Then there
are times when laughter and the joy of
fellowship fill me up and the pain
of grief is lessened. I know that I will be
“washed up” in grief for a while yet. But
soon there will be more days of joy and
laughter than sorrow and tears. I also
know that there are no hard and fast
rules as to how long this grieving process takes. There are as many different
ways to grieve as there are people grieving. I also know that if my tears and sorrow continually get worse and there is
less joy and not more that I will need to
reach out for help. I will not want to stay
in my grief.
“It is in dying that we are born to eternal life.” (St. Francis of Assisi) More
words that point to the promise and
words I look to for help in moving away
from grief. I know I am constantly moving
toward letting the gift of faith, the promise of life everlasting and the communion
saints take me where I need to be.
Tax Credit Donations
The Nadaburg “Yellow” School Bus
will be in the Lord of Life parking lot on
Saturday, December 13 from 9:00 am 12:00 pm to accept Tax Credit Donations. There are forms on the counters in
the Sanctuary and donations may be
made through the end of the year.
- -page 8 - -
Blessing of the Animals
Fellowship
Time
We had opportunities
for fellowship as we celebrated Pastor Kim’s 28th
Anniversary of Ordination
and Pastor Roger Anderson’s 20th Anniversary of
his Installation at Lord of
Life.
Nicole Pesce Concert
Nicole Pesce once again dazzled Lord of
Life concert attendees with her diverse musical talent.
- -page 9 - -
Treasurer’s Report
News of Our Members
Stewardship Report
as of September 30, 2014
Full
854
Associate
332
Total
1186
Units
756
Attendance Averages
September
2013
397
2014
467
Hospitalized since last
LifeLines
Terry Wascher
Wanda Arfsten
Warren Huebner
Margaret Clark
Tom Teichman
Elsie Schelke
Roger Gimby
Joanne Gleim
Charles King
Terry Loschen
Ron Veara
Dorothy Johnson
Bernice Triola
Removal from Membership
by Request
Lanny & Kathryn Auberg
Ansis & Ardell Markitans
Roy Meyer
Removal from Membership
by Death
Virginia Mullin
Elsie Schelke
The above Operating Statement shows a positive cash flow as of September 30.
Compared to last year, Lord of Life is truly blessed to be in this financial position this
late in the summer season. Thank you for your prayerful giving.
Thanks,
Frank Welch
- -page 10 - -
Thrivent Choice Dollars
Don’t forget to keep Lord of Life in
your thoughts while choosing where to
direct your Choice Dollars. If you need
more information go to
www.thrivent.com/thriventchoice.
From Our Parish Nurse
Carol Hokaj, RN
“I tell you the truth, whoever hears my
word and believes him who sent me has
eternal life and will not be condemned;
he has crossed over from death into life.”
John 5:24
Were you aware that November,
along with other designations, is recognized as National Hospice Month? We
speak so often about the philosophy of
hospice as that of care and comfort as
you are facing a life-limiting or lifethreatening diagnosis. Hospice comes
into play when we are no longer looking
for the cure or pursuing aggressive treatment plans. We become aware that we
are no longer “fixable.” In our society, we
have come to honor youth and all that
implies. We have come to minimize the
aging process and even try to deny it.
Information has recently been released
that we have achieved the longest life
expectancy ever. This speaks well for
our medical advances and technologies
but presents another set of factors to
consider. Because we have these won-
derful technologies and advances, do
they always need to be employed?
Please know as a patient, you always
have the right to determine what treatment, tests, procedures, even medications that you use. I am not advocating
being cavalier about a medical situation
but you do have rights.
I have come upon a book that I feel is
must reading for all of us as we are advancing in age and especially if we are
caregivers for elderly loved ones whose
medical decisions may be in our control.
Most of our medical interventions have
consequences and “Knocking on
Heaven’s Door” by Katy Butler explores
“the path to a better way of death.” She
points out that our culture wants to
“medicalize aging and make it nothing
more than a collection of specific diseases that medicine can prevent or fix.
Dying can be postponed, but aging cannot be cured.” A question each of us may
need to answer; where do you draw the
line between saving a life and prolonging
a dying?
These are just a few tidbits from this
book. It is presented through the eyes of
a daughter, Katy herself, navigating the
care for her elderly parents. It explores
ELCA Good Gifts, the designated Lord of Life Gratitude Gift recipient
for December, supports projects and programs worldwide that help
people build better lives. Good Gifts provides everything from malaria
education and prevention to disaster response to “starting points” that
range from a dozen baby chicks, to a pair of goats, to a village well.
But wait! There’s more!! In addition to providing hope to the recipients, Good Gifts can provide a unique present to the people on your
Christmas shopping list. A donation you make in their honor (and symbolized by gift cards you can mail or wrap and put under the tree).
You’ll hear more about Good Gifts throughout Advent, and you can
read more online at http://community.elca.org/elcagoodgifts.
Members and friends of Lord of Life can support ELCA Good Gifts
using the blue Gratitude Gift Envelopes or via the Lord of Life website:
www.lolaz.org/donations.
- -page 11 - -
many situations that we may encounter. I
think this may be the first time in my 10
years here at LOL that I have endorsed a
particular book. I began reading it and
soon picked up a highlighter because
there was so much good information and
situations presented to give serious consideration. She also provides great background for some of our medical practices
and resource information.
A copy of this book is being ordered
for our library and I’m sure available in
other libraries as well. If you have concerns regarding these end of life issues,
let me know if I can help you navigate
the course.
Care Ministries
Available
 Transportation to medical appointments in special circumstances
 Holy Communion in the home
 Delivery of CDs of weekly worship
services
 Telephone Ministry
Call the church office if you would
benefit from any of these. The ministries
are possible because of wonderful volunteers. If you would like to become a volunteer, please contact Parish Nurse,
Carol Hokaj.
Lord of Life Women
Save These Dates and Become Involved
The Women of the ELCA (W-ELCA) Executive Board will meet Thursday, November 13
at 9:00 am. The W-ELCA Board will meet Thursday, November 20 at 9:00 am followed
by the W-ELCA Leader’s Bible Study.
Circle Meetings
Monday, November 3, 2014

Hannah, 10:00 am
Karen Austad 933-8383
Lord of Life Conference Room

Sarah, 1:00 pm
Marilyn Crosby 556-8974

Rachel, 2:00 pm
No meeting in November
Tuesday, November 4, 2014
● Mary, 7:00 pm
Bobbie Behnke 584-8362
Jan Welch 546-3822
Lord of Life Conference Room
Wednesday, November 5, 2014
● Esther, 9:30 am
Sheila Johnson-Soma 544-4032
14118 W Pennystone Dr., SCW
● Joanna, 1:00 pm
Jane Cole 546-0046
Marilyn Anderson 546-4032
15205 W Whitewood Dr., SCW
Monday, November 10, 2014
● Miriam, 9:00 am
Bernice Campbell 975-0646
13115 W Ballad Drive, SCW
● Anna, 6:00 pm
Christi Rich 466-3648
14740 W Ravenswood Dr., SCW
Tuesday, November 11, 2014
● Eve, 1:00 pm
Connie West 271-9736
14815 Tomahawk Way, SCW
● Elizabeth, 6:30 pm
Marge Gumpert 214-0171
Jane Alfrey 214-0237
Lord of Life Conference Room
Wednesday, November 12, 2014
● Priscilla, 9:30 am
Carolyn Garry 546-0329
Sandy Carucci 214-6633
Lord of Life Conference Room
● Dinah, 1:00 pm
Leona Kraus 975-1332
22018 N Golf Club Drive, SCW
●
Naomi, 1:00 pm
LaVonne Pray 584-3868
Joan Jordan 556-9101
Lord of Life Conference Room
Thursday, November 13, 2014
● Ruth, 10:00 am
Pat Warren 584-2851
Lord of Life Classroom #2
Thursday, November 20, 2014
● Lydia, 9:30 am
Nancy Anderson 584-6118
22013 N Acapulco Drive, SCW
WELCOME TO W-ELCA
Women of the church, did you know that you are automatically a member of W-ELCA? (Women of the
Evangelical Lutheran Church) We will be having a
welcome coffee for anyone who is interested in learning more about Circle fellowship, Bible study, and just
having fun with other women at Lord of Life. New
women to the church are especially invited to come and see what it is all about. Join us
on Friday, December 5 at 9:30 am in the Conference Room. More information? Call
Karen Austad at 623-933-8383.
- -page 12 - -
Thankoffering! What does this
mean? Women of the ELCA operates
solely on gifts voluntarily given to the
organization. As we go forward in carrying out our mission and purpose, God
continues to call us to share as much as
we can of ourselves, our time, and our
possessions.
This year’s Thankoffering service and
luncheon will be Friday, November 21,
starting at 11:00 am. Tickets for the
luncheon will be $6.00 and will go on
sale in November. The Reverend Jacqui
Pagel of Trinity Lutheran Church in
Phoenix will be our guest speaker.
A little more about the Pastor Jacqui
Pagel. She has been the pastor at Trinity
Lutheran since June 2010. A native of
Los Angeles, CA, she graduated from
Arizona State University in 1992 with a
Bachelor of Arts Degree in Broadcast
Journalism and a Bachelor of Science
Degree in Women’s Studies. Pastor
Pagel attended the Lutheran Theological
Southern Seminary, Columbia, South
Carolina, and graduated in 2008 with her
Masters of Divinity.
When you give your dollars, you
support Women of the ELCA ministries
that reach thousands of communities.
Thankofferings support advocacy for
the health and safety of women and
children. Your Thankofferings also support a publishing ministry that reaches
more than 70,000 women through
Gather magazine and Bible study.
Have you marked your calendars
yet? Remember, Lord of Life’s Thankoffering service and luncheon will be held
Friday, November 21 at 11:00 a.m.
Again, the tickets for the luncheon will be
$6.00 and will go on sale in November.
The Reverend Jacqui Pagel of Trinity
Lutheran Church in Phoenix will be our
guest speaker.
Thanks for your participation!
Nearly 100 members of Lord of Life responded to recent
Small Group Interest Survey, at Lord of Life. The Hospitality
Committee wants to thank you for your time and information regarding group activities you have been a part of and what you
would like to do in the future.
Bible Study was the most frequently reported (and requested)
group activity followed by various forms of fellowship and dining
groups. A wide variety of other activities were also reported in
the survey.
The committee is working to design some group options
which will be available at the Volunteer Fair on November 8 and
9. Please stop by the table and indicate your wishes and also tell
us if you are willing to coordinate one of the groups which you
choose. See you there!
Our Telephone Ministry Program has been very
successful. Once our ministers
get into the program and start
calling their receivers, the relationship becomes a friendship
and a connection to the church
for our receivers. Our Ministers usually like doing this service and feel like they get even
more out of it for themselves.
This is a very common feeling when you give to others. Our
turn-over is very low. We do ask for our ministers to give us
at least 6 months of dedicated service. Not all of us are cut
out to be ministers and some receivers are not always cut
out to be receivers, and that is OK.
We would love to have you give us a try. Our next class
on November 12 at 1:00 pm will have 18 established and 5
new Telephone Ministers at Lifelines press time. On
Wednesday, November 12 we will have a brief orientation/
information meeting on methods, procedures idea sharing
and any new processes in our ministry. Hopefully, our pastors and Carol Hokaj will also be in attendance.
If interested please call Kay Turner at 602-690-5954 in
advance.
Nominating Committee Update and Request
The Nominating Committee is developing a list of prospective nominees for Church
Council and asks your participation. Please send us the names of church members
whom you would recommend to serve on the Church Council. This preliminary list of
nominees will be reviewed by the Nominating Committee to prepare a ballot of at least
8, but not more than 12 members to fill three, 3-year terms and one, 1-year term. Considerations to keep in mind for these preliminary important nominations include:
 The nominee should be a member of Lord of Life who is faithful in worship and
involved in ministries and missions of the church; however, at the present time,
Associate Members are not eligible to serve on the Church Council.
 Serving on Council is a Calling to serve; it is a faith building experience for the
full 3 year term.
 At this point in the process, it is not required that people being named be contacted….. Please send the names of your selections to Stew Morton, Chair of the Nominating Committee, by email: [email protected], or send a note to him through the
church office.
Please submit your choices no later than Monday, November 10, 2014.
The Nominating Committee will review every name, interview those who are selected, and add their names to the ballot for vote at
the Special Congregational Meeting to be held on December 10, 2014. Thank you for being part of the process.
The Nominating Committee members are : Bill Dowling, Marge LeGore, Karen Nelson, Ginger Welch, Sandra Solomon, Pastor Beyer,
and Stew Morton.
- -page 13 - -
01 Phyllis Stageberg
03 Joyce Johnson
Jinny Templeman
Loren Koppelman
Shirley Davis
Dee Sutherland
Karin Roff
04 Ann Bord
Jackie Seifert
Paul Studt
05 Scott Mohr
06 Bob Kyllo
Judy Nelson
Volene Adams
Doris Fagin
Karen Teichman
07 Mary Price
Napoleon Bradley
Sylvia Oie
Ann Nelson
Clark Stevens
08 Elsie Schelke
Dorothy Blum
Ellie Skon
Ginger Hopkins
Gary Worthington
09 Mark Johnson
Jack Keyes
Barbara Schlie
JoBeth Stevens
11 Mary Pat Vering
12 Roger Pribnow
13 Evelyn Treacy
Frank Krueger
Gordy Hvidsten
Kathy Sutherland
Maurice Nelson
Marilyn Knudson
Peggy Boike
14 George Schreiner
Karen Peterson
15 Ellen Skully
Carol Thunborg
Sandy Matschke
John Boyd
Mavis Hentz
17 Red Majava
Paul Spear
Elaine Robinson
Jerry Soma
25 Dick Erickson
Don Thunborg
Jan Allen
David Gross
27 Bonnie Campbell
Jerry Herring
Ed Dregalla
28 Louise Krueger
Roger Bourland
Annette Elson Willis
Bill Norberg
Gib Dixson
29 Ruth Metzler
30 Margaret Clark
Roger Oie
Alva Pryor-Echols
Bonnie Siegel
19 Dick Blum
Norwin Bittner
20 Al Steffen
Eileen Bannon
Mike Janis
21 Bob Roady
Ken Rye
Bill Dowling
Shirley Herring
John Hopkins
Kirk Margosian
22 Ray Darbutas
Loren Krumwiede
Vern Johnson
Donna Thompson
Tom Teichman
23 Carolyn Loschen
Lynn Norton
Roy Larson
- -page 14 - -
- -page 15 - -
25
8:30 am Blood Pressure
Checks
10:00 am Book
Discussion
Group
1:30 pm Glory Singers
7:00 pm Westwind
Harmony
24
23
8:30 am Worship
9:30 am Fellowship
10:30 am Worship
3:00 pm Organ Concert
Lorraine Miller
9:00 am Nominating Comm.
11:00 am 90s Birthday Worship
12:00 pm 90s Birthday Party
1:00 pm Buildings & Grounds
1:30 pm AA Open Discuss.
2:00 pm Call Committee
5:30 pm Bipolar Support
7:00 pm AA Open Speaker
8:30 am Worship
8:30 am Blood Pressure
9:30 am Fellowship
Checks
10:30 am Worship
1:30 pm Glory Singers
12:00 pm SOLOS Lunch 7:00 pm Westwind
5:00 pm Congregation
Harmony
Call Meeting and
Harvest Celebration
Potluck Dinner
8:30 am Staff Meeting
1:30 pm AA Open Discuss.
2:00 pm Call Committee
5:30 pm Bipolar Support
7:00 pm AA Open Speaker
18
17
16
8:00 am Photo Directory
8:30 am Staff Meeting
9:00 am Nominating Comm.
1:30 pm AA Open Discuss
1:30 pm Endowment Comm.
2:00 pm Call Committee
3:00 pm Resource Team
5:30 pm Bipolar Support
6:30 pm Elizabeth Circle
7:00 pm AA Open Speaker
11
8:30 am Blood Pressure
Checks
9:00 am Miriam Circle
1:30 pm Glory Singers
7:00 pm Westwind
Harmony
10
9 Volunteer Fair
4
9:00 am Nominating Comm.
1:30 pm AA Open Discuss.
2:00 pm Call Committee
5:30 pm Bipolar Support
7:00 pm Mary Circle
7:00 pm AA Open Speaker
2014
Tuesday
8:30 am Worship
9:30 am Fellowship
10:30 am Worship
6:30 pm Senior
Moments
Friendship
Group
8:30 am Blood Pressure
Checks
10:00 am Hannah Circle
1:30 pm Glory Singers
7:00 pm Westwind
Harmony
Monday
8:30 am Worship
9:30 am Fellowship
Hour
10:30 am Worship
2 Food Bank Collection 3
Sunday
7:30 am Eye Opener
Bible Study
8:30 am Quilters
3:00 pm Sectionals
3:30 pm Celebration Choir
6:00 pm Thanksgiving Eve
Worship
7:00 pm Pie Social
26
7:30 am Eye Opener Bible Study
1:00 pm Education Comm.
3:00 pm Sectionals
3:30 pm Celebration Choir
6:30 pm Luther’s Small
Catechism Class
19
7:30 am Eye Opener Bible Study
8:00 am Photo Directory
8:30 am Quilters
9:30 am Priscilla Circle
1:00 pm Naomi Circle
1:00 pm Telephone MInistry
3:00 pm Sectionals
3:30 pm Celebration Choir
6:30 pm Luther’s Small
Catechism Class
12
7:30 am Eye Opener Bible Study
9:00 am Executive Committee
3:00 pm Legacy Gift Meeting
3:00 pm Sectionals
3:30 pm Celebration Choir
6:30 pm Luther’s Small
Catechism Class
5
Wednesday
27
THANKSGIVING DAY
9:00 am W-ELCA Board
9:00 am Memory Tips
10:00 am W-ELCA Leaders Bible
Study
10:00 am Visitation Choir
11:00 am A Cappella Singers
12:30 pm Handbells
12:30 pm Bridge
2:30 pm Choir Sectional
3:00 pm Chancel Choir
20
31
CHURCH OFFICE
CLOSED
8:30 am Bulletin Crew
10:00 am Parkinson’s Art
Group
11:00 am W-ELCA
Thankoffering
Service
12:00 pm W-ELCA Luncheon
1:00 pm Mah Jongg
21
14
8:30 am Bulletin Crew
1:00 pm Mah Jongg
7
Friday
8:00 am Photo Directory
8:00 am Photo Directory
8:30 am Bulletin Crew
8:30 am Council
9:00 am W-ELCA Exec. Board
10:00 am Parkinson’s Art
9:00 am Memory Tips
Group
9:00 am Prostate Cancer Support 1:00 pm Mah Jongg
10:00 am Ruth Circle
11:00 am A Cappella Singers
12:30 pm Handbells
12:30 pm Bridge
2:30 pm Choir Sectional
3:00 pm Chancel Choir
13
8:00 am BC/BS Health Expo
Setup
10:00 am Visitation Choir
11:00 am A Cappella Singers
12:30 pm Handbells
12:30 pm Labor of Love Greeting
Cards
12:30 pm Bridge
2:30 pm Choir Sectionals
3:00 pm Combined Choir
6
Holy Communion is
Celebrated at all
Worship Services
Thursday
5:00 pm Worship
29
9:00 am Food Bank
Brigade
5:00 pm Worship
22
15 LifeLines Deadline
8:00 am Photo Directory
5:00 pm Worship
9:00 am Food Bank
Brigade
5:00 pm Worship
8 Volunteer Fair
1 Food Bank Collection
5:00 pm Worship
Saturday
Winter Worship Times
Saturday, 5:00 pm
Sunday, 8:30 & 10:30 am
Church Office Hours
Monday through Thursday
8:00 am - 4:00 pm
Friday
8:00 am - 3:00 pm
Phone: 623-584-2000 Fax: 623-584-1913
LORD OF LIFE LUTHERAN CHURCH
13724 W. Meeker Blvd.
Sun City West, AZ 85375-3730
NON-PROFIT ORG.
U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
SUN CITY, AZ
PERMIT NO. 17
TIME DATED MATERIAL
November 2014
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.lolaz.org
Staff
The Rev. Stephen Beyer
Senior Pastor
[email protected]
Current Resident/Or
┌
┐
└
┘
The Rev. Kim Sterner
Associate Pastor
[email protected]
Carol Hokaj
Parish Nurse
[email protected]
Gloria Lien
Music Director
[email protected]
Dave Lien
Choir Director
[email protected]
Deb Dorough
Director of Administration
[email protected]
Marsha Shaw
Office Manager
[email protected]
Claudia Zombek
Accountant
[email protected]
Fran Penry
Event Coordinator
[email protected]
Dave Wascher
Custodian
Milka Huerta
Custodian
Items of Interest…
Worship Services on the Web. If you are out of town or not able to attend services, visit
our website, and listen to the service.
Listening Devices. Assisted listening devices are available as part of our sound system
during worship services.
Holy Communion in the Pew. If you wish to receive Holy Communion in the pew during
worship, please notify one of the ushers prior to the beginning of the service. We are always
happy to offer the sacrament to anyone who is unable to come forward to the altar.
Unisex Handicap Restrooms. The restrooms in the Chapel are Unisex Handicap
Restrooms and are available for people who need family member assistance or are in
wheelchairs.
Wheelchairs. Wheelchairs are available in the Narthex for those who may have difficulty
walking from the parking lot to the Sanctuary for worship. The door into the Sanctuary on the
east side of the building (next to the Columbarium) is handicap assessible for those in
wheelchairs, walkers or who have difficulty walking.
Pastors on Call. One of your pastors is on call after office hours, on weekends and on
holidays for emergencies. If you need to contact a pastor during those times, call the church
office answering machine at 623-584-2000 and you will be given the name and contact
information for the pastor on call that week.
Hospitalizations. If you are in the hospital and want us to be aware of it, please call the
church office or have someone call on your behalf. Unless directed otherwise, your name will
be placed on the prayer chain and included in electronic notifications.
Council Minutes and Financial Statements. These documents are
available for your perusal in the church office.
Lost & Found. Come to the church office to claim lost items.
Mobile Donations. Use the code to the right to use Lord of Life’s secure
mobile donation site. Simply scan with your smart phone’s QR Code
reader application.