“Come to me, all you who are weary and
burdened, and I will give you rest. Take
my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am
gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest
for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my
burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30
Shining God’s Light
Our Redeemer Lutheran Church
January, 2015
Reflections…………………………….
Our Redeemer Lutheran Church
825 Golf Ave SW
Pine City, MN 55063
(320) 629-2985
Facebook: Our Redeemer Lutheran Church
www.orlcpc.com
[email protected]
Reverend Dr. Vicki L. Vander Vegt
Ext. 203
Jeff Hussong, Jr./Sr. Youth Director
Ext. 206
Preschool at Ext. 207
Patty Keyport, Secretary
Ext. 201
This is a monthly publication.
Deadline for articles is 4:30 pm on the third
Monday of each month.
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Inside
Annual Meeting, Children’s Ministry.2
ORLC Family………..………....…....3
Lent, Financial Peace U……...…. ….4
Bible Studies, Community……..……5
Church Projects……………………...6
Sunday School/Preschool……………7
Prayer Options……………………....8
Luther Point……………………........9
FPU/Church Council reports……….10
Church Council…………………11-14
Mission/Stewardship....………….....15
Ushers, Readers, Acolyte…….…….16
Monthly Calendar.. ..…….………...17
New Year’s resolutions are probably the
least reliable promises. They turn out to be halfhearted, expressing more wish than resolution. Odd, that promises to ourselves should have
so little credibility.
Promises are often made in times of distress, duress,
desperation, or simply to gain some advantage for oneself. And usually these promises turn out to be unreliable,
too. And when reminded of them, one feigns a lapse of
memory (“I did?”) or just denies having ever made them (“No
way!”). At times we try to wring promises from others. Somehow getting the promise lends us a bit of reassurance. If nothing else, one can hold the promise over the other’s head, a constant reminder that “You promised!” But,
alas, wrung promises guarantee nothing. This side of death,
we cannot guarantee our promises. Death itself may prevent
our keeping them.
Yet promises carry meaning for
us. Broken promises can be devastating to a
marriage or a friendship. And promises made
with the best of intentions may go unkept,
causing anything from mild disappointment to
total outrage. Still, there are times when a
promise kept restores one’s faith in another or
simply confirms the confidence one has.
Human beings make promises great and small not always knowing whether they can deliver on them, however
much we may desire. We want to be able to count on others
and promises raise the possibility that we can.
What differentiates us from God is that we can trust
him to keep his promises. Adam and Eve discovered to their dismay that the consequence
of disobedience was indeed death, as promised. God followed that with a second promise
to crush the serpent that colluded with them,
leading to their death. Adam and Eve did not
live to see the second promise fulfilled. Many
Reflections continued on next page
succeeding generations were born and died without seeing it. But in the fullness of time Jesus Christ
came, taking on our first parents’ death and the
death of all succeeding generations, summing up in
himself all humanity, leaving out none of us. So in
the death of Jesus all humankind died, and his resurrection put the world right before God. That is the
good news we are invited to believe. That good
news accepted in faith continues to work out the
new order of Christ in our lives. God’s promise in
Christ spans the life remaining of this world; it gives
hope each day that he who began his new work in
us will bring it to completion at the time of our Lord’s
return.
Happy New Year and a blessed lifetime!
Living into God’s Grace,
Pastor Vicki
ORLC’s
Annual Meeting
will be:
Sunday, 2/1
at 9 a.m.
We need you to come to vote for new
council and other committee members,
approve the 2015 budget to allow ministry to proceed and to approve borrowing money for needed roof replacement.
We need a quorum of members present
to approve the budget & roof replacement.
Write down the date and time and
join us.
FAQ—-Quorum (kwawr-uh m)
the number of members of a group or organ
ization required to be present to transact
business legally, usually a majority.
Our Redeemer Lutheran Church welcomes
our new Children’s Ministry Director
Leigha Lange
One of the great strengths of Our Redeemer's missional partnership with God has been its ministry to
children in the congregation and the community. So it is with great pleasure that ORLC will welcome
to its staff and its ministry to children, Leigha Lange. Leigha's hometown is HInckley, Mn and she is a
recent graduate of Trinity Lutheran College in Everret, Washington with a degree in Children, Youth,
and Family studies. Leigha has completed undergraduate work in family systems, congregational children's ministry, as well as service & mission. She also completed internships at Lord of Life Lutheran
in Maple Grove, Mn and Ascension Lutheran Church in Thousand Oaks, CA. Leigha will begin her
partnership with ORLC on January 16th, 2015. The congregation is invited to meet Leigha during the
coffee hour at 9:00am on Sunday, January 18th as well as during the Sunday School hour from9:3010:30.
2
To Pray for: Br uce Gutknecht (son of Car ol & Er v), Ar lyce Theis (Car ol Gutknecht ’s
sister) Jean Slade (Lisa Westerman’s Mom), Allie Rauschnot (daughter of Kenny & Dana)
Marlys Jackson (sister to Ann Hagestuen), John Woll, Bill McQuillan, Lorraine Doran, Janice
Parker, Shirley Woischke, Karen Blake (Dan’s sister), Sandy (daughter of Marilyn Arnold), and anyone else
that comes to mind.
Continuing to Pray for: Trish Gahler, Mel Haug, Steve Grady (Evie McAvoy’s son), Arlene Lauer,
Kirk Flesland, Christopher Tindal, Kathy Marenchin, Dale Clementson, Lil Duda, Aine Casey (Judy & Larry
Bothum’s grandchild), Ayden Radke (great-grandson of Donna & Ron Pingree), Wilma Cashin (Gail Mattison’s sister), Cal Hill, Steven Mueller (son-in-law to Vera Duzan), Donna Mae Johnson, Steve Johnson (son of
Curt & Virginia),
Contact the church if you or someone you know is needing a hospital, home visit or phone call. Pastor
Vicki makes regular calls and visits; she needs to be told of what is happening in our lives. You can leave a
confidential voicemail or use one of the yellow forms on the tables in the hallway/narthex.
You are also encouraged to text prayer & visit requests to Pastor Vicki at 320-237-0652
Baptized
11/30—Dru Barbara Jahnz, daughter of Jeff & Tricia Jahnz and Granddaughter of Kathy & Brent Jahnz
12/14
Barrett Alan Nordahl, son of Josh & Melinda Nordahl, Grandson of Tammy & Rick Nordahl
Hudson Chance Dvorak, son of Kati & Joe Dvorak, Grandson of Vicki & Mike Ovik.
Congratulations to
Grandparents Curt &
Deb Wagner in the
birth of their newest
grandchild Elizabeth
Joy
Texting Prayer Team is available to
pray for your needs. Text Deb Wagner
at 320-279-1757.
Thank you to our Church Choir
and its director Jennifer Krinke for
the beautiful music in the Cantata
on 12/14.
A BIG THANK YOU for all who helped
with the Christmas Marketplace in early
December. We had a gross of over $3000.
Remember we continually sell our RADA
products, cookbooks and have other items
available. Call Pat Teich with questions.
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Soul Keeping - A Lenten Preview
During the season of Lent we will be exploring "Soul Keeping" and how we might better understand what a "soul" is
and why neglecting it sets many youth and adults back
spiritually. Beginning on February 18th (Ash Wednesday)
our worship, adult small groups, and Lenten mentoring will
focus on the following topics:
1)
2)
3)
4)
5)
6)
What is the Soul?
The Struggle of the Soul
What the Souls Needs
The Practice of Grace
The Practice of Gratitude
The Practice of Growth
Join us for soup supper beginning at 4:30 followed by
worship at 6:00 pm.
*Please note that there will be only one Lenten worship
service at 6:00pm
FoodShelf Focus
for January
Peanut Butter & Tuna
Please put donations
in the blue tote.
FINANCIAL PEACE UNIVERSITY
will be offered at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church
beginning on Jan 13, 2015. Tuesday evenings @ 6:30pm.
Cost for all materials $100.00.
Sign up by 1/4/15—materials will be ordered 1/5
Contact Glenn/Karen Westing @ 651 208-9886.
IF YOU WILL LIVE LIKE NO ONE ELSE, LATER YOU
CAN LIVE LIKE NO ONE ELSE.......
Beginning in January through mid-April, Lakes & Pines will be using space in our fellowship
hall on Tuesdays and Fridays to assist low income and elderly members of our community with their
taxes. In the case of a funeral, they will use the youth/family room and music room.
4
Senior High Youth (grades 10-12) meet Sundays at
7 p.m.—See Jeff Hussong
Healing Ministry
Third Monday of every month at ORLC.
6:30 p.m. All welcome.
You don't need to be a member of the team.
Healing Prayers by appt. (call Lynn Walz, Lois
Bengtson or John Oare)
Sunday Prayers available after worship
Men’s Breakfast Bible Study meets ever y Wednesday
morning at 6:30 am in the Fellowship Hall. Join them for
food, fellowship and discussion on how God’s word applies to our every day life.
Wed Bible Study at Old Oak Inn (Pine City) meets
at 4 p.m. on Wednesdays
Call Bonnie Menigo for more information.
Befrienders meet r egular ly for study and discussion. Contact Helen Clarke (629-1125)
SonRisers meets Thur sdays at 7 a.m. in the
small group meeting (crying) room.
They are on hiatus from 12/25-3/6/15.
Thank you to everyone who supported
Toys for Tots in any way from prayer
to donating toys or money to giving
your time in collecting toys, setting up
or helping hand them out. We helped
over 600 children in Pine County.
Narcotics Anonymous meets 7 p.m. Tuesday
nights at Hinckley High School room #107 (west
side/south corner). Call Steve at 218/380-0805
for more information.
AA meets 7:30 p.m. Mondays in the Youth Room
Al Anon meets 7:30 p.m. Thursdays
Call Cindy S. at 320/279-1428 with questions
AA & Al Anon meet during holidays.
Billy Graham’s The Reason for My Hope, book
discussion group meets Sundays at 9:30am
We have a direct debit option for all
members who are interested. To get set
up, there is a form (on the small table
by Pastor Vicki’s office) to fill out and
give to Patty in the church office. The
Simply Giving program can simplify
your church giving with monthly or
weekly debits.
If you already use Simply Giving
(direct debit) and wish to change your
giving amount, email, mail or drop off
a written note stating what you want
done beginning when and Patty (the
church office) will update for you.
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“The Roof” The January Edition
Last month I explained the reason that we need a new roof. So the simplest and easiest way to say it is...
“The roof is just wearing out”! In admitting that the roof needs replacement, the church council has
asked for and received estimates for the removal, disposal, and the re-applying of new shingles. The cost
for this project will be between $50,000 and $55,000.
This is a big expenditure!
So, back to the question: “How do we pay for this?”
Through the foresight of Ken Wiedemann and the generosity of the Wiedemann family, a significant gift
was given to ORLC. Using this gift as a down payment, we would then borrow the balance of the needed funds from our existing open construction loan at the Frandsen Bank. The memorial and other gifts
labeled as roof donations are over $18,000. With this as a down payment towards the roof, the question
to you as a member of Our Redeemer, are you willing to borrow up to $40,000 from our construction
loan?
While it certainly increases our mortgage, we are afforded a new roof and we still would be able to sustain a manageable budget.
This is a question that must be voted upon by the congregation at the annual meeting in February.
Your thoughts and prayers are very much appreciated.
Lyndon Hagestuen
Property and Grounds
Please remember that we r ely on gener al offer ings to pay our utility bills, pr ovide childr en’s
and youth ministry, pay staff salaries and office supplies among other expenses involved in all
Our Redeemer Lutheran does. Some families have begun giving toward the new roof which is
greatly appreciated. If your entire offering is designated however, it becomes more difficult to
meet our budgeted expenses. Please consider making such donations an ‘over and above’ your
regular giving so that all needs can be met.
Financial Facts:
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As of 11/30/14 our total mortgage is $83,394.61
It is from the amount we borrowed in 2008 to repave our parking lot, replace carpet and other
needed projects we did in 2008. The older mortgage from before 2008 is paid off completely.
Patty Keyport, Church Office
Welcome Leigha Lange!
One of the great strengths of Our Redeemer's
missional partnership with God has been its ministry to
children in the congregation and the community. So it
is with great pleasure that ORLC will welcome to its
staff and its ministry to children, Leigha Lange.
Leigha's hometown is HInckley, Mn and she is a recent
graduate of Trinity Lutheran College in Everret, Washington with a degree in Children, Youth, and Family
studies. Leigha has completed undergraduate work in
family systems, congregational children's ministry, as
well as service & mission. She also completed internships at Lord of Life Lutheran in Maple Grove, Mn and
Ascension Lutheran Church in Thousand Oaks, CA.
Leigha will begin her partnership with ORLC
on January 16th, 2015. The congregation is invited
to meet Leigha during the coffee hour at 9:00am on
Sunday, January 18th as well as during
the Sunday School hour from9:30-10:30.
Sunday School
Resumes on Sunday, 1/4 learning about the
Wise Men visiting Jesus. The following Sunday
we will learn about the Baptism of Jesus.
On 1/18 we will welcome Leigha, our new
Children’s Ministry director with special activities.
THANK YOU to all students, teachers and others
who helped with our Christmas Program!
November and December have been busy months for the preschool. In November, the students learned about what it means to be thankful for all God has given to each us. They celebrated that learning with their annual "Stone Soup"
meal to which parents and friends were invited. Direct instruction
reading has also been a focus of the last few weeks. DI reading
emphasizes listening skills, following directions, plus sound/letter combinations. In
Spanish, the students have been reviewing numbers and colors as well as learning familiar songs such as "Head Shoulders, Knees and Toes" and names for
body parts in Spanish.
In December, our emphasis has been on Advent and Christmas. The nativity story telling the real meaning of Christmas has been a big part of the classroom experience. The children presented a Christmas program to family and friends on
December 16th. They also sang for the Toys for Tots volunteers on Friday, December 20th.
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Prayer Options at ORLC
Prayer is a relationship in which we humbly communicate, worship, and sincerely seek
God’s face, knowing that He will hear us, loves us and will respond, though not always in
a manner we may expect or desire. Prayer can consist confession, praise, adoration, supplication (humble appeal), intercession and more. (adapted from: Focus on the Family)
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your heart and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:6-7)
For nothing is impossible with God. (Luke 1:37)
Prayer should not be seen as the least we can do, but the first and most we can do!
At Our Redeemer Lutheran Church, there are a variety of prayer options available to
members to communicate with God our wants and needs as well as our praise and thanksgiving:
Name in Sunday’s Worship Service Bulletin-contact Patty Keyport at the church office (320-629-2985 or email [email protected]) to have your name or that of a
loved-one, placed in the worship service bulletin who can be prayed for by members of the congregation.
Prayer Chain-text Deb Wagner @ 320-279-1757. Deb texts members of the prayer
chain to offer prayers as requested.
After Service-members of the Healing Team are available for any and all prayer requests after the worship service in the front of the sanctuary.
3rd Sunday Communion Line-members of the Healing Team are available during
communion on the 3rd Sunday of the month for any and all prayer requests.
1st Sunday of the Month Prayer Requests-a more private and confidential prayer
time with members of the Healing Team after worship service for any and all prayer
requests.
Quarterly Prayer Service-a quarterly short worship service and time for personal
prayer at ORLC. Watch newsletter and bulletin for dates.
“Soaking Prayer”-a very personal and in-depth prayer session at an arranged time and
place. Contact Lois Bengston @ 320-469-3216.
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Director Report
January, 2015
Camp has been overflowing with retreat guests these past few weekends.
Things start to quiet down over the Christmas holiday before we host our annual reunion of 2014 summer camp counselors and "Buddies" just in time to welcome the new year. As always, we anticipate many of our fine counselors will
again return in 2015 as positive Christian role models and mentors for your children at Luther Point.
Some would joke, "But with boots that large, you don't need skis."
I am excited that my "almost" impossible dream to find size 17 cross-country ski boots ended with their arrival in the
store this week. My old boots which were custom made in Norway had finally worn out after years of hard use. I knew
it wouldn't be easy, but never imagined it would take a virtual "quest" over several years to locate a pair. Now I feel
really ready to get out and enjoy winter and explore trails near camp.
New Offering - Family Winter Weekend of Fun - February 13 - 15 (President's Day/Valentines Day). Does winter and the post-holiday season got you feeling a bit stir crazy as you approach the long weekend (no school for
many districts on Monday)? I want to personally extend an invitation for families of all shapes and sizes to join
me and my family at Luther Point Bible Camp for this fun-filled weekend retreat. Past staff will be on hand to
provide hospitality and lead structured activities. There will also be free time options that include tubing, broom
ball, camp games, and an ice-fishing demonstration. Amagician will also be on hand to provide entertainment
with a theological twist. For the first time we will also be offering an optionalsleigh ride (for an additional fee to
cover our costs). I plan to break-in my new ski boots and explore our outpost trail across the road through
woods and prairie.
Prepare to be pampered. Child-care will be available during free time. Accommodations include our comfortable
Retreat Center and toasty warm cabins by the lakeshore. Each family will have their own space, including their own
bathroom and shower. All inclusive delicious meals will be served in our dining hall. Please visit www.lutherpoint.orgfor a schedule, pricing and additional details. Plan on booking an additional overnight to take
advantage of the extended weekend if your kids are off from school and explore the sights and sounds of the great
North woods. Please contact our office and request confidential financial assistance if you need it!
OTHER NEWS:
March 13-14 - Elementary (3-5 grade) Weekend Camp
Spring 2015 -- Calling all Quilters and Scrapbookers!
Luther Point is excited to start-up new retreat opportunities for quilting and scrapbooking. Look for more information
and logistics soon. Suggestions welcome.
Grace and Peace, Rev. Mark Peters, Executive Director
9
Financial Peace University----One's Story
Just over 2 years ago I went through FPU with my daughter. Before I had often lived from
pay check to pay check struggling to pay the bills. But after starting FPU I was finally able to
achieve my dreams; I paid off the mortgage on my house, and paid off my credit card debt. I began
to put money aside earnestly towards my retirement and build a nice emergency fund. By
August 2013 I had an emergency fund which would last me 1 year, with 3 months of it in my
checking account. But in August of 2013 I was the victim of a pedestrian accident which put me in the hospital. I
was unable to work for months, and even with health care insurance my co-pays and out of pocket expenses outstripped any income coming in at the time. I had to turn to the emergency fund in my checking account to get the
basic bills and those from my injuries paid. Without having the prior teachings to be prepared for such times in
our lives we would have been bankrupt from the medical bills. As it is, our bills are paid, I still have 9 months of
emergency funds available, and I am already working on getting the 3 months fund back up to its previous levels
through personal sacrifice and planning.
An FPU Graduate
WHAT WILL BE YOUR STORY?
Council Committee Reports
(excerpts from the written meeting reports)
December, 2014
Council Youth Report:
Several young people from our Pine City ORLC mission youth group, Girl and Boy Scouts and other youth, interested
in community volunteering, helped with the Thanksgiving dinner, making it a huge success. Many of them were helping
both Wednesday after school, and Thursday before, during and after the dinner. These children are our future community leaders and their parents have every reason to be proud of them. I know I am! Trudy W ood
Outreach: Visitation
The Befrienders have purchased Poinsettias and have distributed them to the people we are concerned about in our
ORLC community. They have been well received and appreciated. Trudy W ood
Property and Grounds Report:
Special church projects are basically completed for the year while routine maintenance has now become the norm.
-The furnace has needed some minor repairs but is working fine. (Thanks to Roger and Dianne Knutson for monitoring the maintenance of the furnace.)
-An electrical outlet will be installed next to the new “historical” cabinet.
-The single water meter installation will be completed at the end of December.
-Broken outside lights have been replaced as well up dated sensors and timers. (Thanks to John Oare for his effort in
completing this in the cold weather.)
- A complete remodel of the lighting on the north cross will done in the spring of 2015.
-The sound system has been updated and revamped allowing for a complete and quality sound system. (Thanks to
Del Gross & Morris Engler for his many hours of work on the system.)
A special “Thank You” to all the people who use the church building and do take the time to make sure the building is
neat and orderly when they are through using it. Respectively submitted, Lyndon Hagestuen
Stewardship:
The Stewardship Team met 11/20 to talk about how Stewardship Week went. In general, the number of participants
was not huge but for the first year of trying something new it was ok. Any time spent together praying for our church
and praying for stewardship is always a positive.
People have been asking to see more stewardship videos. There are some that have not been shown yet. We all
agreed it was ok to replay some that have been already shown. One issue in showing them is that someone has to be at
the service to start up the video during the service at the appropriate time.
We will keep doing as much as we can to offer stewardship information and education all year long as we did in
2014.
Sue Osterdyk
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A well-balanced church
The owner of a new puppy got a good laugh
when the little dog, out for a walk, had an itch.
The trouble was that the itchy spot was accessible only to a hind leg. So, while still walking,
the pup tried to scratch and tumbled over, rolling a couple of times before coming to rest.
In several places throughout Scripture, the
apostle Paul writes about the church as the
body of Christ, and of the importance of each
member. Just as the dog needed each leg to
stay balanced while walking, so the church
needs all the different God-given gifts of its
members: preachers and teachers, friendly visitors, generous givers, musicians and singers,
wise parents and imaginative children, people
to produce and distribute meals, newsletters,
lesson materials, and on and on.
When we start thinking that some part of
Christ’s body isn’t necessary, we risk taking
quite a tumble!
Keep breathing
Bill Bright, founder of Campus
Crusade for Christ, said many
Christians live on a “spiritual roller coaster,” going from one emotional experience to another in a
worldly way, feeling “frustrated
and fruitless.”
To counteract that, Bright recommended a spiritual breathing exercise as a reminder of God’s love
and forgiveness. Simply exhale as
you confess your sins and impurities. Then inhale to receive life
and forgiveness — and to be filled
with the Holy Spirit, who empowers you to resist sin and temptation.
Christian philosopher Paul
Tillich said, “The first responsibility of love is to
listen.” Yet in our fastpaced culture, truly listening to someone has become a lost art.
The intricate Chinese
written character for the verb to listen offers wise
insight about how to listen to people so they feel
heard. The symbol is actually a combination of
characters for ears, eyes and an open heart. Basically it reads, “I give you my ears, my eyes and
my undivided attention.” What a great image of
being fully engaged during the act of communication!
James 1:19 offers two wise resolutions for the
year ahead: Be “quick to listen” and “slow to
speak” (NRSV). Practicing the skill of active listening is a much-needed way to minister to other
people, serving as Jesus’ “ears” in a hurting
world.
The faith journey
Faith is better understood as a
verb than a noun, as a process
than as a possession. It is on-again
-off-again rather than once-andfor-all. Faith is not being sure
where you’re going, but going anyway. A journey without maps.
—Frederick Buechner
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OUR REDEEMER LUTHERAN CHURCH
COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
December 11, 2014
Our Vision:
Shining God’s light into the darkness, bringing hope where there is despair, and healing where there is hurt.
PRESENT:
Jim Koppen
Kris Gross
Doug Pieper
EXCUSED:
ABSENT:
Sue Osterdyk
Patty Keyport
Lee Isaacson
Lyndon Hagestuen
Trudy Wood
Carolyn Tuckner
Penny Hudlow Ilene Haavisto
Pastor Vicki
Tim Schlichting
Chris Jahnz
Glenn Westing
President Jim Koppen called the meeting to order. Pastor Vicki opened with prayer.
Ilene Haavisto thanked ever yone for allowing her to speak. A small gr oup have been meeting and going
through historical documents and artifacts from the 2 churches that combined to form ORLC. Don Lund and Dale Mathisen built a beautiful display cabinet. There is a concern with the cabinet’s current location that it may produce a
bottleneck in the entry way. They are discussing space use in the narthex as a whole and common themes or lack
thereof. In conjunction with Altar Guild, they would like to revamp the area to make it more cohesive and inviting.
Ilene asked for Council or Property & Grounds Committee (P&G) permission to look at it further to suggest changes.
Both Penny Hudlow and Pastor Vicki expressed that this is a marvelous idea. Pastor Vicki likes having Altar Guild be
the committee for everyone to go to in questions of hanging things; our narthex needs to invite and inform both members and visitors. Altar Guild would be great at this. Jim asked if they’d like to bring a plan to council? Ilene is looking
for clarification on who to bring a plan to; is it P&G? Is it Council? Jim suggests they put a plan together and bring to
council. Pastor Vicki asked if this needs a detailed council approval or can we trust our Altar Guild as a group? Jim as
a member of council would love to see a broad, brushstroke plan. Kris Gross commented as a beginning it would be
good to have council consensus then as it moves forward it probably would not need to be as formal. Lyndon
Hagestuen reminded of past problems where individual members have individual ideas on how something should be.
It is important to have council consensus looking at the overall, big picture. Jim concurred. Ilene asked for clarification about future changes; would one person or group be given authority? Doug Pieper agreed that keeping it within
council gives a cross-section of members making decisions. Lyndon recommended Ilene’s group put together a plan,
present to P&G for their consensus who would then bring to council for overall approval. Chris Jahnz agreed that this
approach would work well. Council consensus is in favor.
Financial Report: The financials were reviewed. It was opened for questions and comments. Sue Osterdyk reported
we remain in the positive compared to discretionary/restricted funds by $10,913.27 as of the end of November. It was
discussed at the finance committee about funding the emergency fund. It was budgeted for 2014 at a total of $3000.
We’ve not funded yet due to the borrowing from restricted funds; could we fund now? Jim asked for the committee’s
suggestion. Sue Osterdyk moved to fund the emergency fund by $3000; Pastor Vicki seconded for purposes of discussion. Chris Jahnz asked if this would put us in the red? Jim called the question. Motion carries unanimously. No further discussion. Pastor Vicki moved to accept the financial report; Doug Pieper seconded: motion carries.
Council Reports: wr itten r epor ts wer e included in the packet and excer pts will appear in the next newsletter .
Youth (Kris Gross/Trudy Wood) See written report.
Personnel (Jim Koppen) Jim reported the committee did an electronic meeting to discuss the 2015 budget (unable to
meet in person). The process used historical data on staff compensation with the committee emailing back and forth
until consensus was reached. See the 2015 budget for details. Jim assumes within the next week they will have a skeleton job description for Pastor Vicki from Lynda Woulfe to discuss in committee and then will bring to council. There
is not currently a job description at ORLC that fits for Pastor Vicki’s duties as a single pastor. Carolyn Tuckner asked
if Pastor Vicki will be consulted in this process; Jim assured that she will be. Pastor Vicki has not seen it yet.
Outreach (Tim/Chris Jahnz) Nothing new.
Missions –World & Local (Carolyn) A quilt was made and is being raffled for the Food Shelf at an upcoming March
concert.
Visitation (Lee Isaacson/Chris Jahnz/Trudy Wood) See written report.
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Adult Ministry (Lyndon/Lee Isaacson) No afternoon coffee plans yet.
Property & Grounds (Lyndon) & Van (Doug Pieper) See written report. Lyndon proposed we have a separate motion at the annual meeting to approve borrowing not more than $40,000 to replace shingles on the church roof and use
the Wiedemann money as a down payment. He doesn’t feel we can finalize which contractor until after this is approved at the annual meeting. There are two projects for 2015 that he doesn’t feel we need to add to the budget. One is
$1000 for painting/redecorating the youth room (committee planning it is: Sue Osterdyk, Grace Ringness, Mari Ringness, Melanie Knutson, and Kristina Knutson) with volunteer labor. Sue’s goal is to also have kids helping so they can
learn skills applicable to mission trips e.g. painting etc. We should also look at replacing the carpet in the youth room.
Lyndon recommends using the +$1 giving for that. He also feels we can use/request designated funds to redo the outside lit cross.
Van will go in for maintenance before the end of the year.
Finance/Stewardship/Adult Ed (Glenn/Sue) See written report. Sue highlighted the action items on her written report. They need members willing to learn how to start up the stewardship videos especially at 8 a.m. worship. Lee
Isaacson and Trudy Wood volunteered. The committee would like to offer a training class for new council members
and any ORLC members interested on how to read our financial reports possibly in March/April. Council consensus
recommended April to May to allow for snowbirds’ return as well.
Ministry Team Reports
Jeff Hussong, Youth Ministry—see written report.
Pastor Vicki: She gave a verbal report. It is the Advent and Christmas season. There are 2 baptisms this Sunday, a
wedding the day after Christmas. Toys for Tots distribution is next weekend.
Old Business:
December Newsletter: Jim Koppen will write. The deadline is Monday, 12/15 for all committees.
2015 Budget: Jim passed out copies of a handout with historical data on staff compensation and a copy of what
Personnel’s recommendations are for 2015 staff compensation. He verbally highlighted the printed information he
handed out. The proposed budget from the finance committee was also handed out for council discussion. Jim continued by reading the Personnel Committee’s written recommendations and thoughts. Discussion occurred with Jim answering questions.
Pastor Vicki asked for a review of the 2015 proposed budget from Finance. Sue stated her concern that 2014 budget was $371,519; Sue estimates income at $306,000. She is concerned with income so far below budget and feels our
budget is unrealistic. Jim has a concern on whether our budget is real. He realizes that part of the 2014 budget was for
a Children’s Ministry staff person which was not filled in 2014. Kris Gross reminded that we did pay an interim Children’s Ministry person for part of 2014. Jim feels we are at a major point here; we are moving forward and how much
of this process is faith? Lyndon suggested we look at year to date for 2014. Discussion continued. Council members
asked for time to digest the Finance committee recommendations. Jim strongly recommended a separate council budget meeting prior to the January council meeting with a quorum. Doug concurred. Meeting is set for 7-9 p.m. on Tuesday, 12/16; everyone is to come prepared with specific questions and thoughts. Lyndon reminded our giving has increased over this past year. Penny Hudlow asked what is the trend at ORLC? Lyndon answered that historically
church giving is up and down throughout the year. Looking at this year, we have improved.
2015 Sabbatical: Last month, Pastor Vicki gave a written proposal with options for a sabbatical next year. She
would like questions and concerns tonight so can make a decision by the January council meeting. There were a couple of options in her written proposal on covering worship along with the costs involved for 14 Sundays. Her plan is
that worship planning and scheduling would be done prior to her sabbatical. NE MN Synod and ORLC handbook
guidelines were included in the proposal. She is open and prefers to be on call for member funerals. There are no 2015
weddings currently scheduled during her proposed sabbatical. Baptisms are more flexible; they can be done by a layperson if need be and decided upon. Communion can be consecrated or by prayer. As a courtesy, we can ask the Bishop to give permission for laypeople to consecrate communion. Jim reminded that personnel has discussed this and
they are very comfortable with the idea of a sabbatical and are in favor of it including funding at 100% of salary. Tim
Schlichting asked if council consensus is ready for a motion tonight? Tim Schlichting moved to accept Pastor Vicki’s
written proposal on a 2015 Sabbatical Plan at 100% salary; Trudy Wood seconded. Pastor Vicki offered to step out if
needed; no one had concerns so she was told to remain. Questions were asked and answered. Jim agreed it would be
good to begin planning and do this right. Chris reminded this would be in the summer and asked how it would affect
the worship schedule; that would be part of the planning for final approval by council. Jim called question. Motion
carries unanimously. Jim asked Pastor Vicki if a committee would be better for sabbatical planning so that it’s not all
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on the staff depending on her preference. She will bring an overall plan for input. Lyndon and Jim concurred a full proposal on what the 14 weeks would look like is needed for council to consider at a future meeting.
Staff Christmas Gifts: Discussion was moved to the end of the meeting after Patty Keypor t and Pastor Vicki wer e
asked to leave.
New Business:
Children’s Ministry: Thr ee applications wer e r eceived for our open position the day after the past council meeting. A candidate was interviewed twice. Leigha Lange is a resident of Hinckley with a degree in Youth & Family Ministry. Her references are all positive. Pastor Vicki moved to hire Leigha Lange at ¾ time January through June of 2015 and
full-time July through December at the 2014 budgeted salary and benefits; Tim Schlichting seconded. The reason for ¾
time is because Ms. Lange is currently working part time until June; this would allow her to finish that commitment. Pastor Vicki’s plan would be for her to have set office hours and work 3 out of 4 Sundays in a month which is similar to
current expectations for our Jr/Sr High Youth Ministry director. There is a possibility she may be open to ¾ time the entire year. Jim concurred it would be something to look at 6 months in. Tim Schlichting feels she is a great fit and has
what ORLC needs. Jim asked for further questions and discussion. Motion carries unanimously. Pastor Vicki will craft
an offer letter to Ms. Lange asap. Tentative starting date could be 1/15/15.
Annual Meeting: Our constitution schedules the annual meeting for the fir st Sunday in Febr uar y which is 2/1/15.
In past years it has worked to end first worship around 8:45 to begin the meeting 9 a.m. Jim asked about the option to
have the meeting less structured allowing for 15 minutes of social time with the meeting being 9:00-9:45 or one service
so we are all together? We need to accommodate the Sunday School schedule and needs. Tim Schlichting moved to have
the annual meeting on 2/1/15 at 9 a.m.; Doug Pieper seconded: motion carries unanimously.
Jim requested we do closing prayers and then discuss Christmas Staff presents.
Closing Devotional & Prayer wer e led by Pastor Vicki. Advent is a season where we look at making things new as
God has done. We as a council are also in this process with the 2015 budget and our plans for next year. Closed with
prayer.
Respectfully Submitted,
Patty J Keyport
Recording Secretary
The January Sunday Coffee
free will offerings will go to
Pine County Veteran’s Council
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We are called to give out of our own abundance. ORLC follows scripture and gives a tithe (meaning 10%) of
general offerings to both local and global missions. The total Missions Giving is 10% of our 2014 budget. The
actual amount given each month is based on the offerings of the previous month.
Our Vision:
Shining God’s light into the darkness, bringing hope where there is despair, and
healing where there is hurt.
Stewardship committee report
A big thanks to all of you who participated in Stewardship Week and to those who returned their pledge cards on Stewardship Sunday!
Many who joined us during the week for the movies: “God’s Not Dead” and “My Hope
for America,” the Chris Tomlin concert, prayer service and prayer vigil, and Saturday’s
Family Fun Day expressed that they would like a Stewardship Week 2015.
Approximately 13% of the families completed and returned their pledge cards. This is
about the same number of responses we’ve received in past years.
Everyone identified and shared the many blessings God had given throughout the year. We are truly a blessed congregation and we praise God for His amazing love for each of us. It is with gratitude, thankfulness, and love for our
Lord that we are able to be His servants and share our blessings with each other and His church.
Almost half of those who returned their pledges indicated that, with the help and guidance of God, they will try to
tithe their income in 2015. This is a big step and we will continue to pray and support each other in this walk of faith.
Because of your positive response and willingness to trust God, our Father, the Stewardship Team has agreed to continue encouraging you throughout the year 2015. We realize that stewardship is a lifelong spiritual and physical journey, so we plan to offer monthly stewardship videos and words of encouragement throughout the year.
If you have any ideas, needs, or concerns, please feel free to talk to a member of the Stewardship Team or consider
joining us!
Every time we think of you, we give thanks to God. You are always in our prayers with joy, because we are together
in partnership in the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. We are confident that God has begun a good work in you and
He will keep at it until He completes it on the day Jesus Christ returns! (paraphrased Phil 1:3-6)
Reminder! Financial Peace University is starting a new class January 13th, 2015! We encourage you to take part in
this wonderful opportunity to “Slay Your Debt!”
With gratitude and love,
The Stewardship Team
(Bonnie Menigo, Sue Osterdyk, Glenn Westing, Lynn Walz, Doug Pieper, Bonnie Sparling)
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Ushers
Sam James
Kristina Knutson
Grace Ringness
Carissa Nascene
Grace Jahnz
Emily Elliott
Parker Sell
Justin Stolp
Noelia & Ben Cruz
Donald Aasen
Samantha Kubesh
Abby & Holly Haug
Acolytes
January
Readers
Thank You
Don Lund who coordinates 8 a.m. worship
The 2015 schedule for 8 a.m. has been generated
and mailed out.
Date
Time
Loren & Carole Samuelson
Loren & Carole Samuelson
Loren & Carole Samuelson
Loren & Carole Samuelson
John Oare
Virginia Johnson
Bonnie Menigo
Liz Olson
Jan. 4
8:00
9:30
Jan. 11
8:00
9:30
Jan. 18
8:00
9:30
Jan. 25
8:00
Altar Guild
Virginia Johnson
Communion
Assistants (NEED 3)
Jeff & Bonnie Menigo
Helen Clarke
X
Curt & Virginia Johnson
Helen Sickler
X
John and Ardelle Oare / Gary and Lillian Bue
Brent and Kathy Jahnz / Lyndon Hagestuen and Roger Knutson
Roger and Lorraine Cummings / Dale and Sandy Mathisen
Jenny and Mark Mansavage
Mark and Laurie Madison / Bill and Shirley Woischke
Jerry and Jane Tschida / John and Merrilee Eberhart
Arlen and Cindy Lund / Kathy and Greg Lea
Jeff and Bonnie Menigo / Norm Opheim and Roger Vacinek
Scott and Chris Jahnz / Bernice Wood and Lee Isaacson
Trudy Woods and Jeneice Carter
Del and Rosie Rude
Amber & Josh Doenz
Feb
March
April
May
June
July
August
Sept
Oct
Nov
Dec
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9:30
COFFEE SCHEDULE
4 – Deb Eck, Sheila Basta, Eileen Neville
11 – Ardelle and John Oare
18 – Carole and Carl Anderson
25 - Diane Vander Venter, Jennifer Krinke,
Glenna Reierson, Lori Rydberg — CHOIR SINGS
8 am USHERS
Sun
Sunday Schedule
Worship
8:00 Life Connected
9:30 Life Surge
Sunday School
7 pm Sr Hi Youth
4 See Above
11 See Above
10:40 am Mission
Trip meeting
18 See Above
Welcome to Leigha
Lange, Children’s
Ministry
25 See Above
Mon
9:30 Quilting
7:30 pm AA
5 See Above
12 See Above
19 See Above
Office Closed for
Holiday
Newsletter Deadline
6:30 Healing Team
26 See Above
Tue
5-8 p.m.
Lakes & Pines
Tax
Prep assistance
Wed
Thu
5:30 Worship
7:30 Al-Anon
1 New Year’s Day
Office Closed
2
Fri
11 am—4 p.m.
Lakes & Pines
Tax Prep assistance
3
10
6:30 am Men’s Bible
Study
3 pm Rejoice! Choir
4 pm Old Oak Bible Study
6 Wed Nite Supper
6:30 Confirmation
7 pm Choir
9 See Above
17
22 See Above
30 See Above
23
31
24
7 See Above
6 See Above
8 See Above
6 pm Prayer meeting
7 pm Council meets
16 See Above
21 See Above
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Sat
Girl Scout Sleepover
13 See Above
14 See Above
4 pm WELCA board
6:30 FPU(youth rm)
15 See Above
10 am Adult DayBreak
12:15 Befrienders
1:30 pm HOPE Circle
20 See Above
9:30 am JOY Circle
1:30 pm FAITH
6:30 FPU(youth rm)
28
See Above
27 See Above
6:30 FPU(youth rm)
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