(320) 845-2405 [email protected] www.OurSaviorsLutheranAlbany.org

Pastor: Stephen Cook Ministry Associate for Youth & Families: Diana Brown Music Coordinator: Mike Aronson Parish Office Coordinator & Treasurer: Stephanie McGuinness Custodians: Jim & Deb Kurtz Church Office Hours: Monday: 8:30–11:30am Tuesday–Friday: 8:30am–4:00pm

Sunday Worship · 8:00 & 10:30 am Sunday Education Hour · 9:15 am ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED

840 Lake Avenue P.O. Box 670 Albany, MN 56307-0670

Vol. 21, No. 2

U.S. POSTAGE PAID NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION PERMIT #2 ALBANY, MN 56307

the

Kindred Spirıt

Lenten Worship:

“Big Questions, Hopeful Answers”

Wednesday Lenten Soup & Sandwich Suppers · 5:30 pm

February 2015

Newsletter of Our Savior’s Lutheran Church · Albany, Minnesota

Sunday Worship 8 & 10:30 am Education Hour 9:15 am

February 18

Ash Wednesday Worship 6:30 pm Wednesday Lenten Worship 6:30 pm Feb 25–Mar 25

Worship Ministers Just a friendly reminder that there are sign-up sheets in the Narthex for worship ministers (helpers during the service). Sign-up individually or as a family, on the Sundays you will be at Our Savior’s for worship. It is our privilege to serve in the Lord’s House. Worship Minister roles descriptions: Acolyte Things to know and do: · Arrive 15 minutes before the service and check in with pastor. Check taper and lighter in sacristy. · Light the candles 5 minutes before. · Other worship assistance includes helping with offering. · Help with communion. · Extinguish candles during the sending hymn. Other things an Acolyte might do: · Carry the processional cross. · Hold something for the pastor. Communion Assistant Things to know and do: · Arrive 15 minutes before the service and check in with pastor. · At offering time, wash hands in the sacristy and sit in a front pew. · Bread distribution, say: “The body of Christ, broken for you.” · Wine/grape juice distribution, say: “The blood of Christ, shed for you.” · The congregation is served first at the communion rails. · First team finished serves those seated who cannot get to the altar. · Second team serves the organist. · Last, teams serve each other. Ushers Things to know and do: · Arrive 15 minutes before the service and check in with pastor.

· Hand out bulletins at beginning and collect them at the end of worship; encourage people to keep the announcements. · The most important job of the Usher is Hospitality. Watch doors on both sides and welcome the people to worship. Be aware of people coming in even after worship begins, and please welcome them and direct them to a seat. · Offering: come forward for offering plates and distribute through sanctuary. Four people are needed, (one for each aisle) and the congregation will help if needed. Readers Things to know and do: · Reading(s) can be emailed (send an email [email protected]) or picked up at church office. · Arrive at 10 minutes before the service and check in with pastor. · A copy of the Reading(s) will always be at the pulpit. · Move the microphone as you need. · Help with communion. · Other help as needed, such as offering. Sunday Worship Coordinator Ensure everything is organized for worship on Sunday. If interested, please contact the church office to obtain more information.

Return to the Lord your God Former Luther Seminary professor Walter Sundberg's describes the purpose of worship this way: "To call Christians to repentance; to warn them to be under no illusion as to who they are and how far they fall short when they stand before God and holy things; to teach them to worship God in humility; to feed them the Bread of Life; to make them ready to give testimony to Christ in word and deed" (p. 144).i Lent is the season more than any other when we hear the call to take a clear eyed appraisal of our situation and speak the truth about ourselves. On Ash Wednesday we hear the truth. “You are dust. To dust you shall return.” Yet we are dust that God loves! The infinite God took on our finite nature and came under the same judgment we are under. It is

from

Pastor Steve

only when we know the grace and love of God for us through Jesus that we can start anew. Each Sunday in Lent we will hear powerful stories that remind is that God is not done with us yet. This year our Wednesday Midweek Worship will begin at 6:30 pm. We begin our Lenten Journey on Ash Wednesday, February 18, when we will gather for Confession, Imposition of Ashes and the Lord’s Supper. For the next five Wednesdays our gathering will be times that focus on “Big Questions, Hopeful Answers” along with singing, prayer and reflection of the mystery of God and our relations to God. The worship service will be the teaching time for the Confirmation students who will gather at 7:15 p.m. with their confirmation table groups. I will gather for a similar discussion with older youth and adults. Lent is a time to turn back to God. That is what repentance means. i

Worship as Repentance: Lutheran Liturgical Tradition and Catholic 3 Consensus (Eerdmans, 2012)

YOUTH &FAMILY ministry

Diana Brown, Ministry Associate

Dear Beloved Brothers & Sisters~ Valentine’s day, as I’ve discovered, takes on a different meaning depending on the season of life I’m currently navigating. I remember when I was in elementary school it was a day to carefully select the right Valentine card for each of your classmates. I always remember it painstakingly difficult to make sure I didn’t accidentally give an overly mushy Valentine to someone I wasn’t really fond of, and even more challenging to find the perfect prewritten sentiment to give my current crush. In the later school years of middle school and beyond, when I was no longer mandated to give each of my classmates a Valentine, the day took on even new meaning. At my high school, the student-led peer activities group sold carnations that you could send on Valentine’s Day to anyone in the school. They would show up in your locker with a note from whoever sent it. As the sender you could pick a color—white, pink, or red. I remember one year I sent one to myself—I didn’t want an empty locker. Those awkward years passed and I soon met my husband, Ryan. 4 Together, we’ve shared over 10

Valentine's Days. I often remind him that our money is better spent on necessary things than on flowers or chocolate—but there hasn’t been a Valentine’s Day he hasn’t gotten me a Valentine. He’s even more giving with the children’s gifts. As a mother, Valentine’s Day takes on a new meaning. Before meeting my first daughter, Nyra, I thought I knew what love was. I loved my parents and brother, I loved Ryan, I loved chocolate sundaes and french fries. The love that grew for my child, and the three more that followed, is a love I hadn’t known before. It is a selfless, ever giving, unending love. A love that a parent has for a child. A love that makes me want to give a Valentine every day just so they know that they are loved. Valentine’s Day is a reminder of God's love for me. God’s Valentine isn’t a cartoon-themed piece of paper, a carnation left in your locker, or a beautiful bouquet of flowers and chocolates. God’s Perfect Valentine is Love. It’s a love that parent has for a child. It’s a selfless, ever giving, unending love. A love that is so freely given to all of us that we should share this love with others. “Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.” 1 John 4:11 Love, Diana Brown Ministry Associate Youth & Families

Rural Stearns Faith in Action Volunteers Needed! Occasional Transportation Drivers and Friendly Visits OSLC is the Albany/Avon hub for calls from seniors, caregivers, and people facing difficult life circumstances needing services, which are provided at no cost to the person receiving services. People who call our office are needing help right now, right here in our community...they don’t have a car any longer and need a ride to a medical or dental appointment (in Albany, Melrose and St. Cloud); or a friendly visit once in a while; someone to go walking with; light housekeeping and chores; or simple home repairs. The time commitment on your part as volunteer is very minimal, but the service you provide is so greatly appreciated by the care recipient, you can make a BIG difference in their life! Transportation drivers receive a small payment from RSFIA after year-end to help offset gas expenses incurred. Please consider joining Faith in Action as a volunteer today. To find out more about Faith in Action, please contact Stephanie in the Church office, ph. 845-2405. A big “Thank you” to our Albany/Avon area Faith in Action Volunteers...Jan, Elmer, Paul, Dan and Alice, Mike.... God Bless you!!!

Albany Food Shelf Servers Thursday, February 19th 5:15–6:30 pm Hannah Finkelson, Bree Kreuzer, Jacob Smith, Rachel Zeman Food Shelf

The following items are needed this month at the Albany Food Shelf:

Shampoo & Conditioner Remember...the first Sunday of every month is Food Shelf Sunday. Bring a food item donation for our local food shelf. The need is great, and with your help, people right here in our community are able to provide food on the table for their families. Donations can be dropped off in the designated bins in the Narthex. Thank you for your support to those in need in our community. Also, Thank you to our Confirmation families who volunteer every month at the Albany Area Food Shelf.

Serving Group #6 Co-chairs: Jan Koglin, 845-2010 and Joyce Christen, 845-4075 Jannell Boeckermann, Bonita Fox, Lori Ruben, Gwen Richardson, Melisssa Christen, Melanie Wege, Jamie Woods, Carolyn Koglin, Sharon Lehner, Molly Kohout, Valerie Christen, Jill Hamann, Janice Zarbok, and Sandy Lieder 11

Upcoming!

Prayer Box

February 2015

Jesus’ Name

OSLC

“She will give birth to a son and you must name him Jesus, because he is the one who is to save his people from their sins.” Matthew 1:21 “John said to him, ‘Master, we saw a man who is not one of us casting out devils in your name; and because he was not one of us we tried to stop him’. But Jesus said, ‘You must not stop him; no one who works a miracle in my name is likely to speak evil of me. Anyone who is not against us is for us.” Mark. 9:41

Youth

“The Almighty has done great things for me, Holy is His name.” Luke 1:49

WELCOME

“Father, may your name be held holy.”

Luke 11:2

“Until now, you have not asked for anything in My name. Ask and you will receive, and so your joy will be complete.” John 16:24 “These are recorded so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing this you may have life through his name.” John 20:31 “All who call upon the name of the Lord will be saved.”

Acts 2:21

“For the LORD is the great God, the great King above all gods.” Psalm 95:3 “Yours, O LORD, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the majesty and the splendor, for everything in heaven and earth is yours. Yours, O LORD, is the kingdom, you are exalted as head over all. …Now, our God, we give you thanks, and praise your glorious name.” 1 Chronicles 29:11, 13

10

“Come, Thou Almighty King” (verses 1, 2, & 4) Come, Thou Almighty King, Help us Thy name to sing, Help us to praise. Father, all glorious, O’er all victorious, Come, and reign over us, Ancient of Days. Come, Thou incarnate Word, Gird on Thy mighty sword, Our prayer attend: Come, and Thy people bless, And give Thy word success; Spirit of holiness, On us descend. To Thee, great One in Three, Eternal praises be Hence evermore. Thy sov’reign majesty May we in glory see, And to eternity, Love and adore. Attributed to Charles Wesley, (anonymously) "Hymn Book", 1757

Sunday Studies Are you in 7th to 12th grade and interested in hanging out with your friends and learning more about God and stuff? Come to the Fireside Room between services (9:15 am) every 2nd and 4th Sunday: February 8 & 22 March 8 & 22

Youth Group Night Wednesday, February 4th 7–9 pm for all youth grades 9–12 Bring a friend! Meetings will be held the 1st Wednesday of the month: March 4, April 1, May 6

Southwest Minnesota Synod High School Youth Gathering Mankato, MN March 6-7th This is a great time for connecting with other young people from our synod. There is a band, speaker and opportunities to grow with other students in small group sessions. If you have a chance to talk to one of the confirmation students that went to the Jr. High gathering this past November please do so. I would also encourage you to think about joining the Southwest Minnesota Synod Lutheran Youth Organization Board—this is an amazing opportunity for youth to serve their church, synod and community. This board is responsible for planning and leading the Jr. and Sr. High Youth gatherings and represent the voice of youth on the synod level. If you are interested in more information let me know and I’d be happy to get you anything you need. Cost to attend $30 (scholarships are available) Registration Due: February 8th Diana Brown Ministry Associate Youth & Families

5

New Council Members

sweethıngs Sunday Adult Forum

Sunday Mornings 9:15 to 10:15 am

Between Services · Fellowship Hall Celebrate the “sweet things” going on around us and enjoy sweets, coffee, and good conversation! Each Sunday we will gather to learn sweet things to grow our faith. Or, we may gather for good conversation about the sweet things going on in each of our lives. Watch the bulletin for schedules.

big questions

hopeful answers Lenten Worship Series

February 25–March 25 6:30 pm At Wednesday Evening Lenten Worship Pastor Steve will be looking at the ‘big questions’ we may have as Christ followers. Join us to find out! Lenten Soup & Sandwich Suppers All are invited for supper before Lenten Worship, 5:30 pm. Freewill offering.

SundaySchool Just a quick reminders, there will

Are you a History Enthusiast?

not be Sunday School Feb. 15th. Also, the Education Committee meets the third Monday of the month at 7:30 at the church. The Education Committee has also begun the early stages of planning VBS and we are looking for to help us plan this wonderful experience for the kids. If you can assist in anyway please let us know. Education Committee: Jannell Boeckermann, Patty Leyk, Kristin Alderink, Diana Brown, Mary Adelman, and Kim Hahn

OSLC is creating a Heritage Committee. This group will begin the process of examining documents that we have accumulated since the forming of OSLC. There are books that date back to the late 1800s. This process aligns with two significant anniversary dates that happen in 2017: 50th Anniversary of the forming of Our Savior’s Lutheran Church 500th Anniversary of the Reformation If you are interested in being a part of this exciting project, please contact the office, 845-2405.

[email protected] https://www.facebook.com/ OurSaviorsAlbany 6

At the Congregation’s Annual meeting on January 24 we elected these new Council members: Kevin Beuning, Vice President Jannell Boeckermann, Secretary Stephanie McGuinness, Treasurer Judy Fischer, Financial Secretary Dan Anderson, Council Member Michael Hartwig, Council Member Pat Johnson, Council Member Tim Sands, Council Member Cheri Salzer, Council Member They join the Council Members who continue to serve: John Wiese, President Rick Christensen, Council Member Kyle Evenson, Council Member Jordan Hahn, Council Member Thanks to all who are leaving the Council: Al Amdahl Deb Solarz Jai Wiese Diana Yorek We are all members together of the One Body of Christ and of this Congregation. Thanks for your willingness to serve.

Our Savior’s Lutheran Church Staff Pastor: Stephen Cook Ministry Associate for Youth & Families: Diana Brown Music Coordinator: Mike Aronson Parish Office Coordinator & Treasurer: Stephanie McGuinness Custodians: Jim & Deb Kurtz Church Office Hours: Monday: 8:30–11:30am Tuesday-Friday: 8:30am-4:00pm

Acolyte Schedule for February: February 1 8 am · Wyatt Mergen & Crystal Koglin 10:30 am · Kendall Schmitt & Michael Elliot February 8 8 am · Colton Leyk & Mitchell Eliot 10: 30 am · Colton Wolbeck & Hannah Finkelson February 15 8 am · Nathan Krebs & Jacob Smith 10:30 am · Leah Lobitz & Hailey Ricard February 22 8 am · Gabe Wiese & Jake Meredith 10:30 am · Bree Kreuzer & Tanner Blenker March 1 8 am · Megan Alderink & Lauren Alderink 10:30 am · Mariah Brickweg & Logan Brickweg

Congregational Council Minutes Monthly Congregation Council Meeting minutes are now easily available to you in two ways: 1. OSLC Website www.OurSaviorsLutheranAlbany.org

2. Congregation Council Bulletin Board located in the coatroom hallway by the Fellowship Hall (Hard copies are in the folders just below the council pictures.) 9

music opportunities

Need Brass Instrumentalists Looking for spiritual refreshment? Visit or sign up for God Pause, Luther Seminary’s daily devotions. God Pause devotions are short, meaningful reflections on the following Sunday’s lessons and gospel, delivered directly to your email box, if you choose. By Sunday, you’ll be ready for an extra meaningful worship experience. Devotion writers are Luther Seminary alumni/ae. Their reflections are a gift to you and to the church. You can find the link to God Pause on Our Savior’s website:

Let’s raise the roof! For those of you who play a brass instrument (trumpet, baritone, trombone, tuba, french horn), we would like you to share your talents with us on Easter Sunday Please connect with Mike Aronson by February 15th so we can pick out music ahead of time and have ample time to practice. Practice times will be determined based on the schedules of those who will be participating.

Music Team Opportunity

We are looking for those who have a desire to share their musical www.OurSaviorsLutheranAlbany.org talents by being part of a Worship and click on the Worship page. Or, Team. We are looking for singers, go to luthersem.edu. instrumentalists (keyboard, piano, guitar, drums, etc.) and a few people who may be interested Online Giving being part of our Sound Tech You now have the opportunity to Crew. information.interest present your offering online! Visit meetings will be held immediately www.OurSaviorsLutheranAlbany.org following both services on You will find the Online Giving February 8th and 15th. button on the Home page.

Special Music Opportunity

Daily Devotional Pick up your free copy of “Christ in our Home” daily devotional, available in the Narthex. Read your Bible every day with the help 8 of this insightful book.

Currently seeking those that would like to share their musical talents in a solo/small group for Lenten mind-week services. Please reach out to Mike Aronson if you are interested.

Call from your Call Committee Hello! We are currently in the process of first interviews with pastors who have expressed interest in serving Our Savior’s. It has been wonderful to meet and talk with several inspiring people. Please pray for our committee; our decision will be difficult. Following interviews, we will have second interviews, and other meetings as needed before we present the candidate to the Council. When the necessary steps are completed, there will be a special congregational meeting for your vote. Please note that the Call Committee cannot discuss the people we are interviewing. We appreciate your patience as we travel through this important part of calling our new pastor! Any Call Committee member welcomes any of your other questions. Pray for us as we continue our work! Call Committee Members: Mary Adelman, Mike Aronson, Al Ernst, Judy Fischer, Jordan Hahn, Mitchell Leyk, Denis McGuinness, Ron Madsen, and Ron Paulsen

Life

congregational

&

mission

Thank you to everyone who completed our survey in January. We had many responses and are currently looking through the things you would like to help happen at Our Savior’s. We will are planning and coordinating for the coming year as well as helping other committees with their efforts. Committee meetings are the first Wednesday of the month at 5:30 pm. Please join us! Purpose: To coordinate opportunities for fellowship, faith, and fun, building our sense of community, and To coordinate opportunities to serve our neighbor in our church, communities, and the rest of the world. If you would prefer to be involved in something short-term, numerous opportunities will be coming up, so you could choose one that interests you. Congregational Life & Mission committee members are: Mary Adelman, Linda Hartwig, Kaye Schmainda, Deb Solarz, and Wendy Womack 7

music opportunities

Need Brass Instrumentalists Looking for spiritual refreshment? Visit or sign up for God Pause, Luther Seminary’s daily devotions. God Pause devotions are short, meaningful reflections on the following Sunday’s lessons and gospel, delivered directly to your email box, if you choose. By Sunday, you’ll be ready for an extra meaningful worship experience. Devotion writers are Luther Seminary alumni/ae. Their reflections are a gift to you and to the church. You can find the link to God Pause on Our Savior’s website:

Let’s raise the roof! For those of you who play a brass instrument (trumpet, baritone, trombone, tuba, french horn), we would like you to share your talents with us on Easter Sunday Please connect with Mike Aronson by February 15th so we can pick out music ahead of time and have ample time to practice. Practice times will be determined based on the schedules of those who will be participating.

Music Team Opportunity

We are looking for those who have a desire to share their musical www.OurSaviorsLutheranAlbany.org talents by being part of a Worship and click on the Worship page. Or, Team. We are looking for singers, go to luthersem.edu. instrumentalists (keyboard, piano, guitar, drums, etc.) and a few people who may be interested Online Giving being part of our Sound Tech You now have the opportunity to Crew. information.interest present your offering online! Visit meetings will be held immediately www.OurSaviorsLutheranAlbany.org following both services on You will find the Online Giving February 8th and 15th. button on the Home page.

Special Music Opportunity

Daily Devotional Pick up your free copy of “Christ in our Home” daily devotional, available in the Narthex. Read your Bible every day with the help 8 of this insightful book.

Currently seeking those that would like to share their musical talents in a solo/small group for Lenten mind-week services. Please reach out to Mike Aronson if you are interested.

Call from your Call Committee Hello! We are currently in the process of first interviews with pastors who have expressed interest in serving Our Savior’s. It has been wonderful to meet and talk with several inspiring people. Please pray for our committee; our decision will be difficult. Following interviews, we will have second interviews, and other meetings as needed before we present the candidate to the Council. When the necessary steps are completed, there will be a special congregational meeting for your vote. Please note that the Call Committee cannot discuss the people we are interviewing. We appreciate your patience as we travel through this important part of calling our new pastor! Any Call Committee member welcomes any of your other questions. Pray for us as we continue our work! Call Committee Members: Mary Adelman, Mike Aronson, Al Ernst, Judy Fischer, Jordan Hahn, Mitchell Leyk, Denis McGuinness, Ron Madsen, and Ron Paulsen

Life

congregational

&

mission

Thank you to everyone who completed our survey in January. We had many responses and are currently looking through the things you would like to help happen at Our Savior’s. We will are planning and coordinating for the coming year as well as helping other committees with their efforts. Committee meetings are the first Wednesday of the month at 5:30 pm. Please join us! Purpose: To coordinate opportunities for fellowship, faith, and fun, building our sense of community, and To coordinate opportunities to serve our neighbor in our church, communities, and the rest of the world. If you would prefer to be involved in something short-term, numerous opportunities will be coming up, so you could choose one that interests you. Congregational Life & Mission committee members are: Mary Adelman, Linda Hartwig, Kaye Schmainda, Deb Solarz, and Wendy Womack 7

New Council Members

sweethıngs Sunday Adult Forum

Sunday Mornings 9:15 to 10:15 am

Between Services · Fellowship Hall Celebrate the “sweet things” going on around us and enjoy sweets, coffee, and good conversation! Each Sunday we will gather to learn sweet things to grow our faith. Or, we may gather for good conversation about the sweet things going on in each of our lives. Watch the bulletin for schedules.

big questions

hopeful answers Lenten Worship Series

February 25–March 25 6:30 pm At Wednesday Evening Lenten Worship Pastor Steve will be looking at the ‘big questions’ we may have as Christ followers. Join us to find out! Lenten Soup & Sandwich Suppers All are invited for supper before Lenten Worship, 5:30 pm. Freewill offering.

SundaySchool Just a quick reminders, there will

Are you a History Enthusiast?

not be Sunday School Feb. 15th. Also, the Education Committee meets the third Monday of the month at 7:30 at the church. The Education Committee has also begun the early stages of planning VBS and we are looking for to help us plan this wonderful experience for the kids. If you can assist in anyway please let us know. Education Committee: Jannell Boeckermann, Patty Leyk, Kristin Alderink, Diana Brown, Mary Adelman, and Kim Hahn

OSLC is creating a Heritage Committee. This group will begin the process of examining documents that we have accumulated since the forming of OSLC. There are books that date back to the late 1800s. This process aligns with two significant anniversary dates that happen in 2017: 50th Anniversary of the forming of Our Savior’s Lutheran Church 500th Anniversary of the Reformation If you are interested in being a part of this exciting project, please contact the office, 845-2405.

[email protected] https://www.facebook.com/ OurSaviorsAlbany 6

At the Congregation’s Annual meeting on January 24 we elected these new Council members: Kevin Beuning, Vice President Jannell Boeckermann, Secretary Stephanie McGuinness, Treasurer Judy Fischer, Financial Secretary Dan Anderson, Council Member Michael Hartwig, Council Member Pat Johnson, Council Member Tim Sands, Council Member Cheri Salzer, Council Member They join the Council Members who continue to serve: John Wiese, President Rick Christensen, Council Member Kyle Evenson, Council Member Jordan Hahn, Council Member Thanks to all who are leaving the Council: Al Amdahl Deb Solarz Jai Wiese Diana Yorek We are all members together of the One Body of Christ and of this Congregation. Thanks for your willingness to serve.

Our Savior’s Lutheran Church Staff Pastor: Stephen Cook Ministry Associate for Youth & Families: Diana Brown Music Coordinator: Mike Aronson Parish Office Coordinator & Treasurer: Stephanie McGuinness Custodians: Jim & Deb Kurtz Church Office Hours: Monday: 8:30–11:30am Tuesday-Friday: 8:30am-4:00pm

Acolyte Schedule for February: February 1 8 am · Wyatt Mergen & Crystal Koglin 10:30 am · Kendall Schmitt & Michael Elliot February 8 8 am · Colton Leyk & Mitchell Eliot 10: 30 am · Colton Wolbeck & Hannah Finkelson February 15 8 am · Nathan Krebs & Jacob Smith 10:30 am · Leah Lobitz & Hailey Ricard February 22 8 am · Gabe Wiese & Jake Meredith 10:30 am · Bree Kreuzer & Tanner Blenker March 1 8 am · Megan Alderink & Lauren Alderink 10:30 am · Mariah Brickweg & Logan Brickweg

Congregational Council Minutes Monthly Congregation Council Meeting minutes are now easily available to you in two ways: 1. OSLC Website www.OurSaviorsLutheranAlbany.org

2. Congregation Council Bulletin Board located in the coatroom hallway by the Fellowship Hall (Hard copies are in the folders just below the council pictures.) 9

Upcoming!

Prayer Box

February 2015

Jesus’ Name

OSLC

“She will give birth to a son and you must name him Jesus, because he is the one who is to save his people from their sins.” Matthew 1:21 “John said to him, ‘Master, we saw a man who is not one of us casting out devils in your name; and because he was not one of us we tried to stop him’. But Jesus said, ‘You must not stop him; no one who works a miracle in my name is likely to speak evil of me. Anyone who is not against us is for us.” Mark. 9:41

Youth

“The Almighty has done great things for me, Holy is His name.” Luke 1:49

WELCOME

“Father, may your name be held holy.”

Luke 11:2

“Until now, you have not asked for anything in My name. Ask and you will receive, and so your joy will be complete.” John 16:24 “These are recorded so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing this you may have life through his name.” John 20:31 “All who call upon the name of the Lord will be saved.”

Acts 2:21

“For the LORD is the great God, the great King above all gods.” Psalm 95:3 “Yours, O LORD, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the majesty and the splendor, for everything in heaven and earth is yours. Yours, O LORD, is the kingdom, you are exalted as head over all. …Now, our God, we give you thanks, and praise your glorious name.” 1 Chronicles 29:11, 13

10

“Come, Thou Almighty King” (verses 1, 2, & 4) Come, Thou Almighty King, Help us Thy name to sing, Help us to praise. Father, all glorious, O’er all victorious, Come, and reign over us, Ancient of Days. Come, Thou incarnate Word, Gird on Thy mighty sword, Our prayer attend: Come, and Thy people bless, And give Thy word success; Spirit of holiness, On us descend. To Thee, great One in Three, Eternal praises be Hence evermore. Thy sov’reign majesty May we in glory see, And to eternity, Love and adore. Attributed to Charles Wesley, (anonymously) "Hymn Book", 1757

Sunday Studies Are you in 7th to 12th grade and interested in hanging out with your friends and learning more about God and stuff? Come to the Fireside Room between services (9:15 am) every 2nd and 4th Sunday: February 8 & 22 March 8 & 22

Youth Group Night Wednesday, February 4th 7–9 pm for all youth grades 9–12 Bring a friend! Meetings will be held the 1st Wednesday of the month: March 4, April 1, May 6

Southwest Minnesota Synod High School Youth Gathering Mankato, MN March 6-7th This is a great time for connecting with other young people from our synod. There is a band, speaker and opportunities to grow with other students in small group sessions. If you have a chance to talk to one of the confirmation students that went to the Jr. High gathering this past November please do so. I would also encourage you to think about joining the Southwest Minnesota Synod Lutheran Youth Organization Board—this is an amazing opportunity for youth to serve their church, synod and community. This board is responsible for planning and leading the Jr. and Sr. High Youth gatherings and represent the voice of youth on the synod level. If you are interested in more information let me know and I’d be happy to get you anything you need. Cost to attend $30 (scholarships are available) Registration Due: February 8th Diana Brown Ministry Associate Youth & Families

5

YOUTH &FAMILY ministry

Diana Brown, Ministry Associate

Dear Beloved Brothers & Sisters~ Valentine’s day, as I’ve discovered, takes on a different meaning depending on the season of life I’m currently navigating. I remember when I was in elementary school it was a day to carefully select the right Valentine card for each of your classmates. I always remember it painstakingly difficult to make sure I didn’t accidentally give an overly mushy Valentine to someone I wasn’t really fond of, and even more challenging to find the perfect prewritten sentiment to give my current crush. In the later school years of middle school and beyond, when I was no longer mandated to give each of my classmates a Valentine, the day took on even new meaning. At my high school, the student-led peer activities group sold carnations that you could send on Valentine’s Day to anyone in the school. They would show up in your locker with a note from whoever sent it. As the sender you could pick a color—white, pink, or red. I remember one year I sent one to myself—I didn’t want an empty locker. Those awkward years passed and I soon met my husband, Ryan. 4 Together, we’ve shared over 10

Valentine's Days. I often remind him that our money is better spent on necessary things than on flowers or chocolate—but there hasn’t been a Valentine’s Day he hasn’t gotten me a Valentine. He’s even more giving with the children’s gifts. As a mother, Valentine’s Day takes on a new meaning. Before meeting my first daughter, Nyra, I thought I knew what love was. I loved my parents and brother, I loved Ryan, I loved chocolate sundaes and french fries. The love that grew for my child, and the three more that followed, is a love I hadn’t known before. It is a selfless, ever giving, unending love. A love that a parent has for a child. A love that makes me want to give a Valentine every day just so they know that they are loved. Valentine’s Day is a reminder of God's love for me. God’s Valentine isn’t a cartoon-themed piece of paper, a carnation left in your locker, or a beautiful bouquet of flowers and chocolates. God’s Perfect Valentine is Love. It’s a love that parent has for a child. It’s a selfless, ever giving, unending love. A love that is so freely given to all of us that we should share this love with others. “Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.” 1 John 4:11 Love, Diana Brown Ministry Associate Youth & Families

Rural Stearns Faith in Action Volunteers Needed! Occasional Transportation Drivers and Friendly Visits OSLC is the Albany/Avon hub for calls from seniors, caregivers, and people facing difficult life circumstances needing services, which are provided at no cost to the person receiving services. People who call our office are needing help right now, right here in our community...they don’t have a car any longer and need a ride to a medical or dental appointment (in Albany, Melrose and St. Cloud); or a friendly visit once in a while; someone to go walking with; light housekeeping and chores; or simple home repairs. The time commitment on your part as volunteer is very minimal, but the service you provide is so greatly appreciated by the care recipient, you can make a BIG difference in their life! Transportation drivers receive a small payment from RSFIA after year-end to help offset gas expenses incurred. Please consider joining Faith in Action as a volunteer today. To find out more about Faith in Action, please contact Stephanie in the Church office, ph. 845-2405. A big “Thank you” to our Albany/Avon area Faith in Action Volunteers...Jan, Elmer, Paul, Dan and Alice, Mike.... God Bless you!!!

Albany Food Shelf Servers Thursday, February 19th 5:15–6:30 pm Hannah Finkelson, Bree Kreuzer, Jacob Smith, Rachel Zeman Food Shelf

The following items are needed this month at the Albany Food Shelf:

Shampoo & Conditioner Remember...the first Sunday of every month is Food Shelf Sunday. Bring a food item donation for our local food shelf. The need is great, and with your help, people right here in our community are able to provide food on the table for their families. Donations can be dropped off in the designated bins in the Narthex. Thank you for your support to those in need in our community. Also, Thank you to our Confirmation families who volunteer every month at the Albany Area Food Shelf.

Serving Group #6 Co-chairs: Jan Koglin, 845-2010 and Joyce Christen, 845-4075 Jannell Boeckermann, Bonita Fox, Lori Ruben, Gwen Richardson, Melisssa Christen, Melanie Wege, Jamie Woods, Carolyn Koglin, Sharon Lehner, Molly Kohout, Valerie Christen, Jill Hamann, Janice Zarbok, and Sandy Lieder 11

Worship Ministers Just a friendly reminder that there are sign-up sheets in the Narthex for worship ministers (helpers during the service). Sign-up individually or as a family, on the Sundays you will be at Our Savior’s for worship. It is our privilege to serve in the Lord’s House. Worship Minister roles descriptions: Acolyte Things to know and do: · Arrive 15 minutes before the service and check in with pastor. Check taper and lighter in sacristy. · Light the candles 5 minutes before. · Other worship assistance includes helping with offering. · Help with communion. · Extinguish candles during the sending hymn. Other things an Acolyte might do: · Carry the processional cross. · Hold something for the pastor. Communion Assistant Things to know and do: · Arrive 15 minutes before the service and check in with pastor. · At offering time, wash hands in the sacristy and sit in a front pew. · Bread distribution, say: “The body of Christ, broken for you.” · Wine/grape juice distribution, say: “The blood of Christ, shed for you.” · The congregation is served first at the communion rails. · First team finished serves those seated who cannot get to the altar. · Second team serves the organist. · Last, teams serve each other. Ushers Things to know and do: · Arrive 15 minutes before the service and check in with pastor.

· Hand out bulletins at beginning and collect them at the end of worship; encourage people to keep the announcements. · The most important job of the Usher is Hospitality. Watch doors on both sides and welcome the people to worship. Be aware of people coming in even after worship begins, and please welcome them and direct them to a seat. · Offering: come forward for offering plates and distribute through sanctuary. Four people are needed, (one for each aisle) and the congregation will help if needed. Readers Things to know and do: · Reading(s) can be emailed (send an email [email protected]) or picked up at church office. · Arrive at 10 minutes before the service and check in with pastor. · A copy of the Reading(s) will always be at the pulpit. · Move the microphone as you need. · Help with communion. · Other help as needed, such as offering. Sunday Worship Coordinator Ensure everything is organized for worship on Sunday. If interested, please contact the church office to obtain more information.

Return to the Lord your God Former Luther Seminary professor Walter Sundberg's describes the purpose of worship this way: "To call Christians to repentance; to warn them to be under no illusion as to who they are and how far they fall short when they stand before God and holy things; to teach them to worship God in humility; to feed them the Bread of Life; to make them ready to give testimony to Christ in word and deed" (p. 144).i Lent is the season more than any other when we hear the call to take a clear eyed appraisal of our situation and speak the truth about ourselves. On Ash Wednesday we hear the truth. “You are dust. To dust you shall return.” Yet we are dust that God loves! The infinite God took on our finite nature and came under the same judgment we are under. It is

from

Pastor Steve

only when we know the grace and love of God for us through Jesus that we can start anew. Each Sunday in Lent we will hear powerful stories that remind is that God is not done with us yet. This year our Wednesday Midweek Worship will begin at 6:30 pm. We begin our Lenten Journey on Ash Wednesday, February 18, when we will gather for Confession, Imposition of Ashes and the Lord’s Supper. For the next five Wednesdays our gathering will be times that focus on “Big Questions, Hopeful Answers” along with singing, prayer and reflection of the mystery of God and our relations to God. The worship service will be the teaching time for the Confirmation students who will gather at 7:15 p.m. with their confirmation table groups. I will gather for a similar discussion with older youth and adults. Lent is a time to turn back to God. That is what repentance means. i

Worship as Repentance: Lutheran Liturgical Tradition and Catholic 3 Consensus (Eerdmans, 2012)

(320) 845-2405 [email protected] www.OurSaviorsLutheranAlbany.org

Pastor: Stephen Cook Ministry Associate for Youth & Families: Diana Brown Music Coordinator: Mike Aronson Parish Office Coordinator & Treasurer: Stephanie McGuinness Custodians: Jim & Deb Kurtz Church Office Hours: Monday: 8:30–11:30am Tuesday–Friday: 8:30am–4:00pm

Sunday Worship · 8:00 & 10:30 am Sunday Education Hour · 9:15 am ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED

840 Lake Avenue P.O. Box 670 Albany, MN 56307-0670

Vol. 21, No. 2

U.S. POSTAGE PAID NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION PERMIT #2 ALBANY, MN 56307

the

Kindred Spirıt

Lenten Worship:

“Big Questions, Hopeful Answers”

Wednesday Lenten Soup & Sandwich Suppers · 5:30 pm

February 2015

Newsletter of Our Savior’s Lutheran Church · Albany, Minnesota

Sunday Worship 8 & 10:30 am Education Hour 9:15 am

February 18

Ash Wednesday Worship 6:30 pm Wednesday Lenten Worship 6:30 pm Feb 25–Mar 25