The Olive Branch, 2/4/16
Accent on Worship
Transfiguration of our Lord
“Now about eight days after these sayings Jesus took with him Peter and John and James, and went up on the mountain to pray. And while he was praying, the appearance of his face changed, and his clothes became dazzling white. Suddenly they saw two men, Moses and Elijah, talking to him. They appeared in glory and were speaking of his departure, which he was about to accomplish at Jerusalem.” -Luke 9:28-31
I recently read a story on MPR about a town called Ittoqqortoormiit. Ittoqqortoormiit is located in Greenland and for two months the sun does not rise. Yes, you read that correctly! For two months, or 58 days, the people who live in Ittoqqortoormiit live in darkness. Can you imagine what that would be like? No sunlight on Christmas when we celebrate the coming of the light into the world. No sunrise when you wake up in the morning. No sunset as the day comes to a close. The people of Ittoqqortoormiit don’t mind, though. They’re used to it. They go about all their daily business in the dark.
But that doesn’t mean they don’t celebrate the return of the sun (which happened this year on January 20). On the day the sun is about to rise, all the kids in town put on their warm clothes and climb to the top of a hill where they have a welcome celebration. The kids carry with them posters that they’ve made that depict the sun, made of markers and con-struction paper. And together they sing a song. “Welcome back, my dear friend. Welcome back the sun.” From this day on, each day will have more sunlight than the last.
I have no idea what it was like for this small group of disciples to experience the transfiguration of Jesus. But I wonder if it was something like welcoming back the sun for the people of Ittoqqortoormiit. The brightness and glory of that first sunrise surely had the ability to bring hope to this community. The shining sun likely reminded them of the great mystery of God and focused their attention on God’s transformative power.
As we celebrate the Transfiguration of our Lord this coming Sunday, may you too, with the people of Ittoqqortoormiit, be shaped, molded, and transformed into God’s image.
– Vicar Anna Helgen
Climate Justice Task Force–Join Now
Here is your chance to take action on your concerns. In January the Vestry supported the formation of a Climate Justice Task Force to investigate and recom-mend education and action for our congregation and its members. This short-term (3-6 months)”big issue” task force will investigate and make recommendations to other standing committees (properties, missions, neighborhood, education, etc). Climate Justice is already a consideration for many of these committees, and the Climate Justice Task Force will offer the opportunity for creative thinking and “whole picture” action. Say, “Yes!” when asked, or volunteer by leaving your name in the church office, dropping a note to Judy Hinck at judyhinck@gmail.com, or writing your name and “Climate Justice” on one of the cream-colored cards in the pew and placing the card in the offering basket.
Lent begins.
Ash Wednesday, February 10
Holy Eucharist at Noon and 7:00 pm
Midweek Lenten Worship
Wednesdays during Lent
Holy Eucharist at noon
Evening Prayer at 7 pm
Sunday Readings
February 7, 2016: Transfiguration of Our Lord
Exodus 34:29-35
Psalm 99
2 Corinthians 3:12—4:2
Luke 9:28-36 [37-43a]
February 14, 2016: First Sunday in Lent
Deuteronomy 26:1-11
Psalm 91:1-2, 9-16
Romans 8:8b-13
Luke 4:1-13
Thursday Evening Study on the Book of Daniel
“Singing the Lord’s Song in a Strange Land” is the title of the current Thursday Bible Study, exploring the book of Daniel. Written in a time of national tribulation and set in another such time, the book explores how God’s faithful live faithful lives in a threatening world. As always, the study begins with a light supper at 6, followed by the study. All are welcome!
Book Discussion Group
Mount Olive’s Book Discussion Group meets on the second Saturday of each month, at 10:00 a.m. in the West Assembly Area at church. All readers are welcome! For the February 13 meeting, they will read God’s Hotel, by Victoria Sweet. For March 12 they will read In the Garden of Beasts, by Erik Larson.
Attention Worship Assistants
The Servant Schedule for the 2nd quarter of 2016 (April – June) will be published at the beginning of March 2016. The deadline for submitting requests to me is February 10, 2016. Please email your requests to peggyrf70@gmail.com.
Thanks!
– Peggy Hoeft
Tending the Family of God
As a congregation, we want to be respectful of people’s journeys. Some people are here long-term; some people are here only for a short time. Both are OK. There are a multitude of reasons for staying and a multitude of reasons for leaving.
How can we send those who are leaving on their way knowing that they have our love, our blessing, and our prayers?
Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper
The Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper will be held on Tuesday, February 9, beginning at 6:00 pm.
Plan to come for a night of fun and fellowship for the whole congregation!
If you are willing to help with this event, please contact Amy Thompson via email to:
Amy.B.Thompson@wellsfargo.com.
– Sponsored by the Mount Olive Youth
Meet the Voigts!
On Feb. 21, there will be an opportunity for everyone to meet the Voigt family at Mount Olive. The Voigts are from Leipzig, Germany and are in the Twin Cities until August as part of an exchange with the Minneapolis Area Synod’s sister synod partnership with the Leipzig Church.
Pr. Voigt is serving at Christ Church Lutheran, but is spending time with other congregations as well.
He and his wife, Anke, and daughters Hannah and Marie, have interesting stories to tell! Come for a light lunch on Feb. 21 after the second liturgy to meet the Voigts.
Sunday’s Adult Forum: February 7
Stewardshift!, presented by Bob Sitze. Bob Sitze is a former ELCA staff member in the ministries of hunger Christian education, stewardship education and family life. An experienced ecclesiological observer, Sitze brings more than 40 years of wide-ranging experience as a congregational leader and denominational executive. He is the author of Starting Simple: Conversations About the Way We Live (Alban, 2007). This forum is sponsored by the Stewardship Committee
Lenten Devotional Book Available
“Return to God,” Susan Cherwien’s new devotional booklet for Lent 2016, is free and available at church. Pick one up for use during Lent!
Palms Needed!
If you have palm branches left from last year’s Palm Sunday Eucharist, please bring them to the narthex and place them in the basket provided.
They will be burned on Shrove Tuesday to make ashes for Ash Wednesday liturgies next week.
Thanks!
Stewardshift: Join the conversation
Are you passionate about stewardship and pretty certain that, yes, it’s about our financial support of the church’s mission, but, properly understood, it’s about much more than that in our lives as Christians and members of congregations?
Join us Saturday, February 6, 10:30 a.m.–2 p.m., in the Chapel Lounge as Bob Sitze leads us in a Stewardshift! workshop. Bob, whose Stewardshift: An Economia for Congregational Change (Morehouse) was published in January, comes to us after years of leadership, conversations, thinking, and writing about stewardship in the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod, former Lutheran Church in America, and the ELCA. We’re hoping to start continuing conversations that will broaden and deepen our lived-out stewardship as the people of Mount Olive.
If you’re coming, please let me know: agathach@bitstream.net or 952-452-2049. We’ll have coffee and goodies of some sort when you arrive, and we’ll join the community lunch at noon.
—Donn McLellan, Director of Stewardship
Transitions Support Group
(Please note day of week change for March only!)
All are welcome at the Transitions Support Group. If you’re looking for new ideas or encouragement to meet the challenges or uncertain-ties that are before you, please consider joining us on Tuesday, March 8.
This is an opportunity to share in fellowship, prayer, and discussion with others in the Mount Olive community.
Transitions Support Group meets on Tuesday, March 8 from 6- 7 pm at Mount Olive in the lower level Youth Room, and will be facilitated by Cathy Bosworth and Amy Cotter.
For more information, please contact Cathy 612-708-1144, marcat8447@yahoo.com or Amy 612-710-1811, agate651@gmail.com.
The Sheridan Story: Fighting Child Hunger
We believe that no child should be hungry, so we are fighting child hunger through community and school partnerships
Over 100,000 children in the Twin Cities don’t always know if they will have food for their next meal. These children have access to meals at school, but on weekends they often go hungry. The Sheridan Story has taken up the challenge to closing this weekend food gap. Click here to watch the story of Jordan, and how the Sheridan Story has made a difference for her and her mom.
The Sheridan Story works to mobilize the community to partner with nearby schools. Mount Olive cares about children, and cares about our community. We will soon have an opportunity to support the children at Jefferson Elementary nearby.
The Sheridan Story makes it easy for us to make a difference for these hungry children. They locate, pack, store and deliver the food to the schools – we take it from there by distributing the food to the kids who are hungry, and perhaps discover over time other ways that we can help the children.
Children who are hungry struggle to learn and pay attention in class. The Sheridan Story has shown that when we fill this weekend food gap for them, grades, test scores, attendance and self-esteem go up. The kids have a chance to succeed that hunger takes away from them. Click here to watch a short video of how we can give hungry kids that chance.
Ukrainian Easter Egg Workshop
Pysanky, or Ukrainian Easter eggs, are made during Lent and Holy Week among those in Slavic countries. The word “pysanky” is from the word “pysanta”= to write, because the designs are written on the egg in hot wax. The traditional designs and colors have specific meanings, and the eggs are often passed down in families from generation to generation. Pysanky is a very old tradition, combining meditation and prayer with art.
Cha Posz, Mount Olive’s administrative assistant, along with her husband Kurt, both members of Holy Trinity Orthodox Church in St. Paul, have offered to teach a basic class at Mount Olive on the making of pysanky. The class will take place on Saturday, February 27, from 9 am to 12 noon in the East Assembly Room next to the Chapel Lounge. A fee of $10 will be charged to cover supplies. Please e-mail or call the church office to register, so we are sure to have enough supplies on hand. All ages* are welcome! (*keeping in mind that it does involve hot wax and a flame…)
Lenten series on Christian Nonviolence
Last summer the’ Minneapolis Synod Assembly passed a resolution calling for Lutherans/Christians to “soul search on our nation’s continuing and expanding war effort.”
Since Lent is a time for reflection and repentance, Mount Olive and Twin Cities Every Church a Peace Church will present a video series on the theology and spirituality of Christian Nonviolence as background for “soul searching” on expanding wars.
Nonviolence is the original tradition in Christianity pre-dating the Christian Just War theory by more than three centuries. The video series features Fr. Emmanuel Charles McCarthy, who has been leading workshops and retreats on this topic throughout the U.S. and other countries. A nominee for the Nobel Peace Prize, Fr. McCarthy has informed Twin Cities Lutherans for several decades in venues such as Luther Seminary, Lutheran Social Service, St. Paul Synod, and, more recently, to over 430 people at a two day Central Lutheran conference (in addition to numerous events in local Roman Catholic seminaries, churches, and religious orders).
The plan is to offer this series on Sunday afternoons during Lent, beginning Feb. 14. We are working out times and logistics for accommodating an audience which will likely include other faith community members interested in learning more about this original but lesser known Christian understanding.
Look for more specific information in the next Olive Branch.
Contact Al Bostelmann (allanbostelmann@msn.com, 612 722-5957) with questions, thoughts and suggestions.
Psalms & Spirituals with the National Lutheran Choir
Saturday, February 27, 2016 – 7:30pm
Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church in Apple Valley
Sunday, February 28, 2016 – 4pm
St. Philip the Deacon Lutheran Church in Plymouth
Tickets: Adult $25 | Senior $23 | Student $10 | 17 and under FREE
Call Brown Paper Tickets (800) 838-3006 or order online at www.NLCA.com.
Minneapolis Area Interfaith Initiative Feb. Meeting
MAII (Minneapolis Area Interfaith Initiative) holds monthly educational programs at the Southdale Library. All are invited to attend the February meeting, “The Pope & Climate Change,” this Sunday afternoon, February 7, at 2:00 pm (Super Bowl kickoff is at 5:30) at the Ethel Berry Room, Southdale Library, 7001 York Ave. S, Edina 55435.
This presentation will be led by Dr. Amy Levad, Associate Professor of Moral Theology at the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, where she has taught since 2009. She will present an overview of Laudato Si (“On Care for our Common Home”), the encyclical written by Pope Francis on the environment and climate change.
More details available by sending an email to maiimpls@gmail.com. MAII unites individuals and faith communities in the Minneapolis area in learning about other religious traditions, increasing interfaith understanding and building personal relationships across faiths.
The Olive Branch, 1/27/16
Accent on Worship
On the 17th of January I took on the challenge of discussing panhandling and the Christian response during the adult education hour. It was very interesting, conflicting, and complicated, but a valuable attempt at further understand-ing how God calls us to live and move in the world. Though I cannot repeat this discussion verbatim, I am going to do a two part series on a few of the highlighted pieces.
Part 1
Much research went in to this topic, but the most valuable piece was an interview with Monica Nilsson, the Director of Community Outreach at St. Stephens Human Services – a ministry focused on ending homelessness. Monica has deciphered four main cate-gories for why people begin panhandling. 1) They have untreated trauma/mental illness; 2) they are broke; 3) they have a chemical depend-ency; 4) they are lonely. For the many reasons why people start panhandling, every cardboard sign reads the same message of “I need help.” The most critical help is relationships and a sup-port network to help them start meeting their more complex needs besides just the few dollars a day for xyz. That’s where information is helpful and acknowledgement that what they’re going through, whatever it may be, is difficult.
Monica and the St. Stephens’s staff do not recommend directly giving panhandlers tangible items (money, socks, tooth-brushes), she does however say that everyone deserves to be acknowledged and respected. When she encounters someone on the street, she does not give money, but she will ask their name and say, “I wish you well,” and may ask if there’s any information or resources that they need.
Resources available at Mount Olive:
– The St. Stephens Street Outreach booklet gives all the shelter and other immediate need info. These are posted on the kiosk or I can get you any if you want copies to keep in your car (see page 5);
– The Handbook of the Streets is a complete listing of most/all resources available in South Minneapolis;
– A short list of nearby food shelves, free meals, shelters, etc. is posted on the kiosk and the bulletin board downstairs. Take pages, make copies, and give them away to those that need them;
– Anna Scott, Coordinator of Neighborhood Outreach and Ministry;
– You. Your compassion. Your willingness. Your care and concern and action.
– Anna Scott
Coordinator of Neighborhood Outreach & Ministry
Sunday Readings
January 31, 2016: 4th Sunday after Epiphany
Jeremiah 1:4-10
Psalm 71:1-6
I Corinthians 13:1-13
Luke 4:21-30
February 7, 2016: Transfiguration of Our Lord
Exodus 34:29-35
Psalm 99
2 Corinthians 3:12—4:2
Luke 9:28-36 [37-43a]
The Presentation of Our Lord
Tuesday, February 2
Holy Eucharist
at 7:00 pm
Thursday Evening Study on the Book of Daniel
“Singing the Lord’s Song in a Strange Land” is the title of the current Thursday Bible Study, exploring the book of Daniel. Written in a time of national tribulation and set in another such time, the book explores how God’s faithful live faithful lives in a threatening world. As always, the study begins with a light supper at 6, followed by the study. All are welcome!
Book Discussion Group
Mount Olive’s Book Discussion Group meets on the second Saturday of each month, at 10:00 a.m. in the West Assembly Area at church. All readers are welcome! For the February 13 meeting, they will read God’s Hotel, by Victoria Sweet. For March 12 they will read In the Garden of Beasts, by Erik Larson.
Attention Worship Assistants
The Servant Schedule for the 2nd quarter of 2016 (April – June) will be published at the beginning of March 2016. The deadline for submitting requests to me is February 10, 2016. Please email your requests to peggyrf70@gmail.com.
Thanks!
– Peggy Hoeft
Coffee Hosts Needed!
There are currently very few hosts signed up for the coffee hour served between liturgies. If you’d like to help in some way, but don’t want to serve, consider making an extra batch of bars, cookies, or cake the next time you bake. You can bring the extra to church to be frozen for those days when no one signs up. Carla is glad to serve the treats, but would welcome help with the baking. Thank you for considering this important ministry of fellowship.
Music & Fine Arts News
Sunday, January 31, 4:00 p.m.
“A Winter Tapestry”
From Age to Age Choral Ensemble
Mount Olive Music & Fine Arts is pleased to welcome From Age to Age choral ensemble for the first time on their concert series. From Age to Age brings a program that will warm your heart as you listen to an eclectic mixture of repertoire representing all musical eras, and the standard of excellence that resounds the mission of our ensemble.
A reception follows the concert in the church’s Chapel Lounge.
Lent is Coming: Mark Your Calendars!
The Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper will be held on Tuesday, February 9, beginning at 6:00 pm.
Plan to come for a night of fun and fellowship for the whole congregation!
If you are willing to help with this event, please contact Amy Thompson via email to:
Amy.B.Thompson@wellsfargo.com
– Sponsored by the Mount Olive Youth
Stewardshift!
Sitze will lead February 6 “Stewardshift!” workshop
Bob Sitze, author of Stewardshift: An Economia for Congregational Change (Morehouse, January 2016), will lead a “Stewardshift!” workshop Saturday, February 6, for Mount Olive leaders and others who want to deepen and broaden their understanding of stewardship for congregational mission and daily life. The workshop, in the Chapel/Lounge, will start at 10:30 a.m. and end at 2 p.m., with participants joining Mount Olive’s Community Meal at noon.
Sitze (pronounced sights) says participants in the interactive workshop will wrestle with questions about the present and future of stewardship. They’ll examine the meaning of stewardship as the church and the secular world have understood it. Using ideas detailed in his new book, Bob will challenge common stewardship beliefs and practices, arguing that some may have run their course in the life of the church. He proposes a “shifted stewardship”—simultaneously more biblically centered and more secular—to more effectively shape and serve personal identity and congregational purpose. Bob’s workshops incorporate discovery-based methods, intellectual and emotional honesty, and what he calls “Lutheran levity.” Advised that Mount Olive people are not shy about asking questions and sharing opinions, Bob responded that he welcomes that prospect.
Bob Sitze is a former teacher and director of Christian education in the Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod. He worked for many years—until his recent retirement—in the ELCA’s national offices as a resource developer and workshop leader in the areas of stewardship, Christian education, hunger, and ministry in everyday life. Four of his previous books, all focused on congregational dynamics, were published by the Alban Institute. Bob and his wife, Chris, live in Wheaton, Illinois.
To help estimate the need for seating, tables, and handouts, please let us know you’re coming by leaving a note marked “stewardship” in the church office or a message for Donn at agathach@bitstream.net or 952-452-2049.
—Donn McLellan, Director of Stewardship
Hungry Children?
Last week, you read about Jefferson elementary school, just a few miles from Mount Olive:
92% of children at Jefferson receive free or reduced cost breakfast and lunch Monday through Friday. But, on weekends,these children often have little to eat:
• 17% are homeless or “highly mobile;”
• children are often alone at home on weekends, because parents are at work. Imagine the feeling of arriving for school on Monday hungry. How hard it is for these children to begin
the week prepared to learn in the presence of gnawing hunger, because there was little to eat over the weekend.
The SHERIDAN STORY exists to fill that “food gap” between Friday and Monday. Studies have shown that children who receive adequate food on weekends experience increased self-esteem, improved behavior at school, better academic performance, significant improvement in standard-
ized test scores, increased interest in school, and better relationships with school personnel.
We’re going to learn how we can personally be part of THE SHERIDAN STORY. Keep watch on this space in coming weeks for more information.
St. Stephen’s Outreach
St. Stephens is a resource if you are concerned about someone on the street and would like an outreach team to make contact with them. The smaller booklet is for immediate needs and helpful in explaining how to enter a shelter. The Handbook of the Streets is a comprehensive collection of most types of aid in the Minneapolis area. Calling 2-1-1 will connect you with United Way and give you access to personal advice and contacts and is the fastest source of up-to-date information.
It’s a Clothing and Seed Swap!
Mount Olive will host the Do It Green Clothing Swap this Saturday, January 30, from 2-4 p.m.
Do It Green Minnesota is a non-profit organization committed to educating Minnesotans about making sustainable and green choices to better their lives and their community.
These clothing swaps provide a place for people to exchange clothes free of charge, which prevents waste, encourages reuse, and provides access to clothes to those who might not be able to afford them.
The event is free and open to the public. Bring clothes and seeds to share with others!
Winter Gear Drive Continues
Neighborhood Ministries is receiving donations of winter gear for children and adults.
New or gently used items (hats, scarves, gloves, mittens, and coats) can be donated in the box near the coat room. There is designated space for coats in the coat rack area. Items will be given away at the Community Meal throughout the winter or brought to the Central Lutheran Free Store.
Thank you!
Psalms & Spirituals with the National Lutheran Choir
Saturday, February 27, 2016 – 7:30pm
Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church in Apple Valley
Sunday, February 28, 2016 – 4pm
St. Philip the Deacon Lutheran Church in Plymouth
Tickets: Adult $25 | Senior $23 | Student $10 | 17 and under FREE
Call Brown Paper Tickets (800) 838-3006 or order online at www.NLCA.com.
Church Library News
Reminders — We would like to remind all patrons of our church library to search their homes for books or other media that belong to the main church library (or the Courtyard library) and somehow haven’t been returned on time. Please do it soon and return those items, thus giving you peace of mind (no fines, no questions) and we will be happier too, and able to function more efficiently!
The second reminder involves bags of books that seem to appear at our library door or on our check-out desk; no doubt left as a kind donation, but with no identification as to just who left them for us! First, we would like to know who you are when you leave bags of books for us. Second, if these items are old or in poor shape, please don’t assume we are going to want them either. We have to be selective, not only because of limited room, possible duplication, or even usefulness of topic etc. If we decide not to use them, we would like to have your name so that we can offer them back to you or offer further suggestions.
An appropriate quote for the beginning of a new year: “A truly great book teaches me better than to just read it. I must soon lay it down, and commence living on it’s hint; what I began by reading, I must finish by acting.” – Thoreau
Resolve to come in and use the library resources often — we are looking for you and want to welcome you warmly!
– Leanna Kloempken
The Olive Branch, 1/20/16
Accent on Worship
Gathering Rite: Preparation
When does this preparation for the liturgy happen for you? Some might say when we set
the alarm clock on Saturday night. Others might say when we dress. What we wear can say something about how we regard the activity we’re dressing for. Some can say even that what we wear has an effect on our behavior. Tuxedos just make me stand with better posture! Jeans and old pull-overs, well…posture is definitely different than when in a tux.
What are we preparing for? Folks may answer that question differently, but let’s start with
this assumption: we are preparing for an encounter with God, alive in this place, and in each other. Since there is no place that God is not, it is WE who take on this conscious focus when we come. In that en-counter we get to express how important God is to us, we will hear the Word of God which will challenge us for the part of the service that takes us out of this place back into the world, and we will partake in the sub-stance (bread and wine) that literally keep us a part of the Body of Christ. Through all these things we are strengthened as we are sent.
The Gathering rite is indeed an important part of our conscious and thoughtful participation in liturgy. It begins with all of the things mentioned so far – from plans to be here, a rehearsal on Wednesday, baking bread, ironing linens, setting the alarm clock, dressing, getting here, lighting candles, all the way through to the prayer of the day. Sometimes we corporately approach God through confessing our brokenness, or remembering whose we are in remembering our Baptism. We greet God with praise. We sing as one voice – a hymn or psalm, perhaps the Kyrie (sung prayer), and perhaps sing a Hymn of Praise. This “gathering” is actually quite vast and varies Sunday to Sunday, liturgical season to season.
For many, once arriving here, before the liturgy formally begins, thoughts turn to prayer. We set aside the nave for liturgies – prayer, praise, proclamation, celebration of the Holy Eucharist. We may greet some people in the narthex or in the lounge, but once entering the nave,
you may notice how many people prepare silently for what is about to take place. Some kneel in prayer. Some look through the service folder to see what has been planned for us to do, some look up the hymns and readings for a precursory look, perhaps marking them with the ribbons. Generally, it is quiet focus on God and mentally getting ready for what is to come, whether there is prelude music or not. It is important to respect that silence for those who value this preparation.
Not all congregations regard their space in this way. For some, it’s about the people. In that way of looking at things, it’s more like a reunion room. People great each other when they first arrive, happy to be reunited. For many here it’s a little different. Our time for “reunion” and greeting, also important, comes following the liturgy in the Chapel Lounge over coffee and treats! We are strengthened by our encounter with God, and now turn to each other for our mutual love and support before we return to “the world” so to speak.
What are you doing Sunday?
– Cantor David Cherwien
Sunday Readings
January 24, 2016: 3rd Sunday after Epiphany
Nehemiah 8:1-3, 5-6, 8-10
Psalm 19
I Corinthians 12:12-31a
Luke 4:14-21
January 31, 2016: 4th Sunday after Epiphany
Jeremiah 1:4-10
Psalm 71:1-6
I Corinthians 13:1-13
Luke 4:21-30
The Presentation of Our Lord
Tuesday, February 2
Holy Eucharist at 7:00 pm
Thursday Evening Study on the Book of Daniel
“Singing the Lord’s Song in a Strange Land” is the title of the current Thursday Bible Study, exploring the book of Daniel. Written in a time of national tribulation and set in another such time, the book explores how God’s faithful live faithful lives in a threatening world. As always, the study begins with a light supper at 6, followed by the study. All are welcome!
Book Discussion Group
Mount Olive’s Book Discussion Group meets on the second Saturday of each month, at 10:00 a.m. in the West Assembly Area at church. All readers are welcome! For the February 13 meeting, they will read God’s Hotel, by Victoria Sweet. For March 12 they will read In the Garden of Beasts, by Erik Larson.
Sunday’s Adult Forum: January 24
“Luther and the Jews, presented by Darrell Jodock, Drell and Adeline Bernhardson Distinguished Professor of Religion Emeritus, Gustavus Adolphus College, St. Peter, Minnesota, and founder of the Institute for Jewish-Christian Understanding at Muhlenberg College.
Coffee Hosts Needed!
There are currently no hosts signed up for the coffee hour served between liturgies. If you’d like to help in some way, but don’t want to serve, consider making an extra batch of bars, cookies, or cake the next time you bake. You can bring the extra to church to be frozen for those days when no one signs up. Carla is glad to serve the treats, but would welcome help with the baking. Thank you for considering this important ministry of fellowship.
Music & Fine Arts News
Sunday, January 31, 4:00 p.m.
“A Winter Tapestry”
From Age to Age Choral Ensemble
Mount Olive Music & Fine Arts is pleased to welcome From Age to Age choral ensemble for the first time on their concert series. From Age to Age brings a program that will warm your heart as you listen to an eclectic mixture of repertoire representing all musical eras, and the standard of excellence that resounds the mission of our ensemble.
A reception follows the concert in the church’s Chapel Lounge.
Lent is Coming: Mark Your Calendars!
The Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper will be held on Tuesday, February 9, beginning at 6:00 pm.
Plan to come for a night of fun and fellowship for the whole congregation!
If you are willing to help with this event, please contact Amy Thompson via email to:
Amy.B.Thompson@wellsfargo.com
– Sponsored by the Mount Olive Youth
Sitze will lead February 6 “Stewardshift!” workshop
Bob Sitze, author of Stewardshift: An Economia for Congregational Change (Morehouse, January 2016), will lead a “Stewardshift!” workshop Saturday, February 6, for Mount Olive leaders and others who want to deepen and broaden their understanding of stewardship for congregational mission and daily life. The workshop, in the Chapel/Lounge, will start at 10:30 a.m. and end at 2 p.m., with participants joining Mount Olive’s Community Meal at noon.
Sitze (pronounced sights) says participants in the interactive workshop will wrestle with questions about the present and future of stewardship. They’ll examine the meaning of stewardship as the church and the secular world have understood it. Using ideas detailed in his new book, Bob will challenge common stewardship beliefs and practices, arguing that some may have run their course in the life of the church. He proposes a “shifted stewardship”—simultaneously more biblically centered and more secular—to more effectively shape and serve personal identity and congregational purpose. Bob’s workshops incorporate discovery-based methods, intellectual and emotional honesty, and what he calls “Lutheran levity.” Advised that Mount Olive people are not shy about asking questions and sharing opinions, Bob responded that he welcomes that prospect.
Bob Sitze is a former teacher and director of Christian education in the Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod. He worked for many years—until his recent retirement—in the ELCA’s national offices as a resource developer and workshop leader in the areas of stewardship, Christian education, hunger, and ministry in everyday life. Four of his previous books, all focused on congregational dynamics, were published by the Alban Institute. Bob and his wife, Chris, live in Wheaton, Illinois.
To help estimate the need for seating, tables, and handouts, please let us know you’re coming by leaving a note marked “stewardship” in the church office or a message for Donn at agathach@bitstream.net or 952-452-2049.
—Donn McLellan, director of stewardship
Creation Awakes
Please join the new Holden Village Co-Executive Directors Peg Carlson-Hoffman + Chuck Hoffman as they share images and information about the impact of the Wolverine Creek Fire on Holden Village. These free events are opportunities for the Holden community to come together in familiar rhythms of teaching sessions, coffee break, and worship. The Directors will provide insights on plans for 2016 and beyond. Full Narnia (childcare) programming is available, so the whole family is welcome.
This event will be held on January 23, 2016, 2:00–5:00 pm, at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 4100 Lyndale Ave. S., in Minneapolis. Mount Olive member Senator John Marty is part of the teaching staff for this forum. His presentation is entitled, “Moving to a Fossil-Fuel Free Future; Addressing Climate Change Because There is No Planet B.” To register, please visit https://holdenvillage.thankyou4caring.org/creation-awakes
News from the Neighborhood
Anna Scott
Listen for A Change
Trinity Institute National Theological Conference presents: “Listen for a Change – Sacred Conversations for Racial Justice,” January 21-23, 2016. Hosted by Central Lutheran Church, this event is free, but registration is requested. For more information or to register go to: www.centralmpls.org & click on Events & News or talk to Anna Scott.
TI2016 is for anyone who is interested in a theological perspective on racial justice and a fuller understanding of present realities and ways to transform them. It’s not just for clergy – anyone interested is invited to attend. TI is also perfect for seminarians, students, activists, and young church leaders looking for new insights from thought leaders and change agents and all who are dedicated to or interested in striving for racial justice.
Oh My Lord, What Can I Do?
It breaks one’s heart to know: over 100,000 children in the Twin Cities live in “food insecurity,” a polite term for a child not knowing when they will get their next meal. On weekends, without the meal programs at school, hunger is their frequent reality, and for their family as well.
In this nation of abundance how can this happen? At an elementary school near Mount Olive:
– 92% of children receive free/reduced cost lunch because their families cannot afford to pay;
– 17% of children are homeless or “highly mobile;”
– 50% of children know little or no English.
It breaks one’s heart to think of hungry kids. What can I do? What can we do? Here is one answer. Watch The Olive Branch in coming weeks for more information on The Sheridan Story.
It’s a Clothing Swap!
Mount Olive will host the Do It Green Clothing Swap on Saturday, January 30, from 2-4 p.m.
Do It Green Minnesota is a non-profit organization committed to educating Minnesotans about making sustainable and green choices to better their lives and their community.
These clothing swaps provide a place for people to exchange clothes free of charge, which prevents waste, encourages reuse, and provides access to clothes to those who might not be able to afford them.
The event is free and open to the public.
Winter Gear Drive Continues
Neighborhood Ministries is receiving donations of winter gear for children and adults.
New or gently used items (hats, scarves, gloves, mittens, and coats) can be donated in the box near the coat room. There is designated space for coats in the coat rack area. Items will be given away at the Community Meal throughout the winter or brought to the Central Lutheran Free Store.
Thank you!
Hymn Festival: “One Body, Many Members”
David & Susan Cherwien will lead a hymn festival this Sunday, January 24, 4:00 pm at The Lutheran Church of the Resurrection in Roseville (3115 Victoria St. N., Roseville).
All are invited!
Who exactly is the Synod? Well, We Are
Sometimes when Lutherans speak of “the synod,” what they really mean is the synod staff. In fact, the Minneapolis Area Synod of the ELCA is all the 155 congregations, other institutions, and all the nearly 190,000 members. We are the synod. We have a staff, too. Bishop Ann M. Svennungsen and twelve others work out of the synod’s office in the Minnesota Church Center at 122 West Franklin Avenue in Minneapolis and provide both service and leadership to congregations. But they, like the staff of Mount Olive, are there to serve the greater group.
As part of that greater work together with our sisters and brothers, Anna Scott, our Coordinator of Neighborhood Outreach and Ministry, was just named Vice Chair of the synod’s Public Voice Committee. This is the synod committee that works on how the many congregations of this synod speak in the public square and work in our neighborhoods for the good of the people of this city and world. But Anna is not alone in serving from Mount Olive. Two Mount Olive members serve on the Synod Council, the governing body of our synod between assemblies: Pr. Crippen, and Ty Inglis, who serves as synod treasurer, elected in 2015. Adam Krueger is co-chair of the synod’s Candidacy Committee, responsible for working with seminarians from Minneapolis as they navigate through the approval process. Through these, this is one way Mount Olive lives out our part as one of many that make up the “synod.”
The Olive Branch, 1/13/16
Accent on Worship
“I Don’t Want You to Be Uninformed”
In these upcoming three green Sundays after Epiphany we have a brief run through First Corinthians as our second reading. Beginning with this Sunday, we hear from chapters 12 and 13 before Transfigura-tion on February 7.
These are remarkable words from a remarkable letter. Paul begins a discussion of spiritual gifts in chapter 12, with this explanation: “Concerning spiritual gifts, brothers and sisters, I do not want you to be uninformed.” In spite of that, I’m not sure we are becoming informed as he hopes. Too often we read these sections, as in the next Sundays, separately, out of context from the others.
When we read them together (and I encourage you to do this before Sunday) we see a thread of truth we don’t talk about as we could: the Spirit’s gifts are for the good of all. So this Sunday Paul says, “to each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.” Next Sunday, he claims we all belong to each other and care for each other, an inseparable body in Christ that we did not make. Then on Jan. 31, his hymn to Christly love is a powerful description of how we live together in that body.
We each are given gifts of the Spirit for the common good. We all belong to each other in one, inseparable body, where all are different and important. Sacrificial, Christly love, the highest of all spiritual gifts, and one given to all, shapes the life in this body. This is what Paul needs us and all believers to be informed about.
Most days we live into this life relatively well as the people of God at Mount Olive. But in the broader Church, among such different and diverse ways of speaking Christ’s name in the world, such a sense of the common good, our oneness in Christ, and the love that binds us, seems rarer and rarer.
Sometimes I think we’d do well as the Church to keep our mouths closed and read more of the Scriptures. It’s sad that 2,000 years after this first was sent to believers, our broader witness as Christ’s Church in this world shows us to still be uninformed, and unwilling to learn.
Perhaps our gift here at Mount Olive can be to show by our actions and life in the world this word of Paul, so that at least those who encounter us as examples of Christians might see that we are, in fact, informed as to the center of the heart of Christ, and so informed, are living in that heart. For the good of all the world’s people.
In Christ,
– Joseph
Sunday Readings
January 17, 2016: 2nd Sunday after Epiphany
Isaiah 62:1-5
Psalm 36:5-10
I Corinthians 12:1-11
John 2:1-11
January 24, 2016: 3rd Sunday after Epiphany
Nehemiah 8:1-3, 5-6, 8-10
Psalm 19
I Corinthians 12:12-31a
Luke 4:14-21
The Presentation of Our Lord
Tuesday, February 2
Holy Eucharist at 7:00 pm
All are welcome!
Thursday Evening Study on the Book of Daniel
“Singing the Lord’s Song in a Strange Land” is the title of the current Thursday Bible Study, exploring the book of Daniel. Written in a time of national tribulation and set in another such time, the book explores how God’s faithful live faithful lives in a threatening world. As always, the study begins with a light supper at 6, followed by the study. All are welcome!
Book Discussion Group
Mount Olive’s Book Discussion Group meets on the second Saturday of each month, at 10:00 a.m. in the West Assembly Area at church. All readers are welcome! For the February 13 meeting, they will read God’s Hotel, by Victoria Sweet. For March 12 they will read In the Garden of Beasts, by Erik Larson.
Desk Needed!
The German family that Mount Olive has helped to bring to Minneapolis for a short-term work/study period would like a small desk to use. If you have a desk that you could lend them until the end of July, please contact Lora Dundek with the dimensions (lhdundek@usfamily.net). We have a desk chair already. Thanks.
Transitions Support Group
All are welcome at the Transitions Support Group. If you’re looking for new ideas or encouragement to meet the challenges or uncertainties that are before you, please consider joining us on January 13, 2016.
This is an opportunity to share in fellowship, prayer, and discussion with others in the Mount Olive community.
Transitions Support Group meets on Wednesday, January 13 from 6- 7 pm at Mount Olive in the lower level Youth Room, and will be facilitated by Cathy Bosworth and Amy Cotter.
For more information, please contact Cathy 612-708-1144, marcat8447@yahoo.com or Amy 612-710-1811, agate651@gmail.com.
Sunday’s Adult Forum: January 17
“Panhandling and Other Dilemmas,” presented by Mount Olive Coordinator of Neighborhood Outreach and Ministry, Anna Scott.
TRUST’s Annual Martin Luther King Celebration
Sunday, January 17, 5:00 pm, Living Spirit United Methodist Church, 4501 Bloomington Avenue South
Join us for fellowship and music. Featuring the voice of Libby Turner, Ann Jensen, and Leon Patterson, reflecting on their journey to Selma for the 50th anniversary of the Selma to Montgomery March. TRUST Youth will provide music and lead the service.
A soup and sandwich supper will follow the service, and a freewill offering will be received.
Mark Your Calendars
Sunday, January 31, 4:00 p.m.
“A Winter Tapestry” From Age to Age Choral Ensemble
Mount Olive Music & Fine Arts is pleased to welcome From Age to Age choral ensemble for the first time on their concert series. From Age to Age brings a program that will warm your heart as you listen to an eclectic mixture of repertoire representing all musical eras, and the standard of excellence that resounds the mission of our ensemble.
A reception follows the concert in the church’s Chapel Lounge.
Help Wanted for Our Saviour’s Meals
It’s sign-up time for serving at Our Saviour’s Shelter!
Mount Olive serves on the second Sunday of every month. If you have served before you know how rewarding it is to meet the residents and to have dinner with them. There is a 2016 calendar where you can put your name down for the month that is best for you.
More hands are always welcome!
Altar Flowers
The sign up chart for weekly altar flowers has been posted in its usual spot next to the church office. If you would like to sign up to provide flowers for worship to commemorate a special day, in memory of a loved one, in honor of a special event, or simply to help beautify our church for worship, please sign up on the chart for the date you want, and be sure to include your designation. The cost of the altar flowers this year is $50 per Sunday for two bouquets. If you wish to provide only one of the bouquets, simply sign on only one of the two lines provided for each Sunday. The cost for one bouquet is $25.
Please use one of the envelopes provided at the chart for your payment.
Reconciling in Christ Annual Service
The 2016 RIC Festival Service, “Diversity Thru Inclusivity,” will be held on Saturday, January 30, 2016, 4:30 PM, at Salem Evangelical Lutheran Church (4150 Dupont Ave. N, Minneapolis, MN 55412). Pastor Robin Provis will serve as presider for this service, and Pastor Kelly Chatman will preach.
A soup supper will follow the service, and a freewill offering will be received. This event is sponsored by the Twin Cities Chapter of ReconcilingWorks.
Confronting Racism: A Holy Yearning
ELCA Presiding Bishop Elizabeth A. Eaton and William B. Horne, an ELCA member from Clearwater, Fla., will continue their conversation on racism – a violation of God’s intention for humanity – in another live webcast Jan. 14, 2016, at 8 p.m. (CST). Eaton and Horne will be joined by other ELCA members who bring various perspectives on the U.S. criminal justice system. As with the previous webcast, this one will be grounded by two commitments. One is this church’s proclamation of Christ and the confidence this good news brings to set us free from the captivity of racism. The second is this church’s enduring commitment to address the complexity of racism and end discrimination.
Mount Olive will host this webinar broadcast in the Chapel Lounge starting at 8:00 pm on Thursday, Jan. 14, immediately following Thursday Bible Study. We will gather in the West Assembly Area beginning at 7:30 pm. We will watch together and have a discussion with other churches and neighbors.
Tending the Family of God
Sometimes when people are no longer present with us at worship on Sunday morning it is because they have moved or have moved on. For example, our vicar completes her year with us, or someone moves to another part of the country or another part of the world. Often, when that happens, we send them on their way from our liturgy with a rite of farewell and Godspeed.
Are there ways we can do that whenever anyone leaves, regardless of the circumstance, so that they know they have been important in our life together and that we will always carry them in our hearts?
News from the Neighborhood
Anna Scott
Let me introduce …
CLUES Comunidades Latinas Unidos En Servicio (Latin Communities United in Service).
CLUES is one of the organizations that Mount Olive supports for its local mission work and support of our neighborhood. This organization sits right across Lake Street, with another two offices in St. Paul. They diligently serve the Latino population in a variety of ways. Their programs focus on: health and wellbeing, economic vitality, education, and cultural and civic engagement. As their website says, living out their mission involves family, community strength, respect, collaboration, and accountability.
Thank you for helping support this vital and vibrant partner in the neighborhood!
CLUES
Who we are: CLUES (Spanish for: Comunidades Latinas Unidas en Servicio) is a linguistically and culturally relevant resource and service nonprofit organization that was founded in 1981 by Latinos for Latinos. Our programs and services connect families to resources, skills, institutions, and systems and create an environment for people to be engaged and empowered.
Who we serve: Our services focus on the Latino family, yet our experience and capabilities enable us to serve individuals and families from all walks of life including new immigrants and low-income families who dream of a better future.
Our mission: To advance the capacity of Latino families to be healthy, prosperous and engaged in their communities.
Our vision: A thriving multicultural community enriched with confident and strong Latino families who contribute their voice, skills, entrepreneurial spirit, and cultural richness.
Listen for Change
The Trinity Institute National Theological Conference presents “Listen for a Change – Sacred Conversations for Racial Justice” on January 21-23, 2016.
Hosted at Central Lutheran Church in Minneapolis, this event is free, but registration is requested. For more information or to register go to: www.centralmpls.org and click on Events & News.
Headed to Kenya!
Coming up on January 25 – Feb 6, Josh and I and a crew of 4 other friends will be headed to Kenya to hike Mount Kenya and hopefully do a safari in Tanzania.
It’s a dream come true for me, as I’ve longed to climb Kilimanjaro for many years, but this trek will suffice! Josh used to fly planes for Airserv, an NGO fleet that worked with the likes of Doctors Without Borders and ARC. He lived in Congo, Uganda, and Chad, but spent time in Kenya and many other countries on the fascinating continent. I’m looking forward to learning, enjoying, seeing incredible things, and having a lot of fun! See you when we get back (and please pray for safety for us. Last time I did something like this I ended up with a broken elbow).
– Anna
Coming Events of Interest
• Sat., Jan, 16, 7:30 pm: We Shall Overcome: a concert by Cantus and the Minnesota Boychoir (celebrating the dream of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Mount Calvary Lutheran Church, Excelsior, MN.
• Sat., Jan 16, Noon, 2, 4, and 6 pm: Scandinavian Lutefisk and Meatball Dinner. First Lutheran Church, Columbia Heights, MN.
• Mon., Jan 18, beginning at 9:30 am: MLK Jr. Day (lectures, worship lunch and panel discussion) Luther Seminary, St. Paul.
• Sat., Jan 30, 7 pm: Luther College Symphony Orchestra concert, Trinity Lutheran Church, Stillwater, MN.
• Mon., Feb. 1, 7:00 pm – Luther College Nordic Choir concert. University Lutheran Church of Hope, Minneapolis.
- « Previous Page
- 1
- …
- 11
- 12
- 13
- 14
- 15
- …
- 25
- Next Page »