Faith Walk Spring 2016

Faith WalkLeader-Telegram Magazine

Spring 2016

Poetry:

Tiny Seed

It Was Jesus

Not Mine

Works Artof

Acts of Kindness

Leader-Telegram Spring 2016 FaithWalk 2

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Expires 5-31-16

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Article provided by Chris Hasenberg of Investment Management Associates, Inc., Wealth Advisor, Series 7 Securities Registered, Series 66 Registered Investment Advisor, Licensed Insurance Agent.

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According to Giving USA 2015, Americans gave an estimated $358.38 billion to charity in 2014. That’s the highest total in the 60 years since the report was first published.

Americans give to charity for two main reasons: To support a cause or organization they care about, or to leave a legacy through their support.

Here’s a quick review of a few charitable choices:

Direct gifts are just that: contributions made directly to charitable organizations. Direct gifts may be deductible from income taxes depending on your individual situation.

Charitable gift annuities are not related to annuities offered by insurance companies. Under this arrangement, the donor gives money, securities, or real estate, and in return, the charitable organization agrees to pay the donor a fixed income until death when the assets pass to the charitable organization.

Pooled-income funds pool contributions from various donors into a fund, which is invested by the charitable organization. Income from the fund is distributed to the donors according to their share of the fund.

Gifts in trust enable donors to contribute to a charity and leave assets to beneficiaries. Using a trust involves a complex set of tax rules and regulations. Before moving forward with a trust, consider working with a professional who is familiar with the rules and regulations.

Donor-advised funds are funds administered by a charity to which a donor can make irrevocable contributions. This gift may have tax considerations, which is another benefit.

Chris Hasenberg can help you assess which approach may work best for you.

Remember, the information in this article is not intended as tax or legal advice. And it may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation.

3 FaithWalk Spring 2016 Leader-Telegram

We welcome your stories, songs and poems about faith and how it has affected your life

or the life of someone you know. Please send us your articles any time of the year.

When submitting an article please note the following:

Length of article: 510 words or less, including biographical information. Contact editor Christena O’Brien in advance if you wish to write a longer article. The editor reserves the right to choose, edit and shorten articles. Articles will be published based on space availability and editorial content criteria.

Photos: If you have a photo or graphic that helps illustrate your work, feel free to include it. Artwork will only be printed if it meets the technical requirements for graphic publication.

To submit: Email to [email protected] or mail to Leader-Telegram, Attn.: Christena O’Brien, 701 S. Farwell St., Eau Claire, WI 54701.

Faith Walk

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act u

s Christena O’BrienFaith Walk [email protected]

Angela RediessGraphic Designer

Kathy HaydenAdvertising Sales [email protected]

Catie Carlson-PrueherMagazine [email protected]

Published by the Leader-Telegram Advertising Department. P.O. Box 570. Eau Claire, WI 54702-0570. Copyright 2016 Eau Claire Press Company. All rights reserved.

Available online at www.leadertelegram.com

Information and opinions in the articles of this magazine are those of the authors and are not necessarily objective reports.

Leader-Telegram Spring 2016 FaithWalk 4800905 3-19-16

To have your church included please call Leader-Telegram Advertising Consultant, Edie Litzkow 715-833-9239.

Celebrate Easter withUs

9:00 and 10:45AMCommunion at both services

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Holy WeekChapel Heights United Methodist Church300 E. Hamilton Avenue • Eau Claire, WI

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Palm Sunday Service — March 2010:00 a.m. Palm/Passion Sunday Worship Children’sPalmBranchParade+ “PrayerPretzels”foreveryone!

Maundy Thursday Service @ CHAPEL HEIGHTS UMCMarch 24 — 12:00 p.m.Good Friday Service @ ALTOONA UMC428FirstStreetW–AltoonaUMCMarch 25 — 7:00 p.m.

Saturday, March 26Children’sEasterEggHuntatChapelHeightsUMC

10:30a.m.–noonEasterEggHunt/Craft/LunchFamily&Friendsareinvited!

Easter Sunday — March 27 6:30a.m. SunriseService 7:30a.m. EasterBreakfastuntil9:45a.m. 10:00a.m. EasterWorship

alleluia!

Christ has Risen!

Palm SundaySaturday, March 19Sunday, March 20

Maundy ThursdayMarch 24

Good FridayMarch 25

Holy SaturdayMarch 26

Easter DayMarch 27

Vigil Mass with Distribution of PalmsTraditional Mass with Distribution of PalmsLiturgy and Procession of the PalmsMass with the Reading of the Passion

Mass with Footwashing and Stripping of the Altar, followed by Night Watch at Altar of Repose

Stations of the Cross with MeditationsSolemn Liturgy of Good Easter

Holy Saturday LiturgyGreat Vigil and First Mass of Easter

Traditional Mass with HymnsSolemn Choral Mass with Procession

Christ Church Cathedral

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5:00 p.m. 8:00 a.m.

10:00 a.m.

7:00 p.m.

12:15 p.m.7:00 p.m.

9:00 a.m.8:00 p.m.

8:00 a.m.10:00 a.m.

Palm Sunday Worship8:30 & 10:30 a.m.Maundy Thursday6:30 p.m. Last Supper PortrayalGood Friday6:30 p.m. “Seven Last Words”Easter Worship8:30 & 10:30 a.m.Easter Breakfast7:30-10:00 a.m.

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1120 Cedar Street, Eau ClaireFrom West ClairemontEast on Vine St. then north on 12th St.

(715) 834-2959


prose




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Good Friday Services—1:30 & 7 PM Holy Easter Day—7 & 10 AM Easter Breakfast Served from 8 AM

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Meal of Remembrance ~ Wednesday, March 23, 6:00pmEaster Vigil ~ Sat., March 26, 8:00pmEaster Services ~ Sun., March 27, 6:30 & 9:00 amYouth Scone Sale between and after services

First Congregational United Church of Christ

310 Broadway Street,Eau Claire, WI 54703

(715-834-2668)www.firstucceauclaire.org

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Rev. Dr. Mark X. PirazziniDr. Gary Schwartzhoff, Director of Music

Mrs. Judy Lies, Organist

Holy Week and Easter WorshipMaundy Thursday, March 247:00 p.m. Communion and Tenebrae Service.

Music will be provided by our Chancel Choir. Nursery Available.

Good Friday, March 2512:10 p.m. Ecumenical Worship Service

Easter Sunday, March 27Celebrate Christ’s Resurrection:8:00 a.m. for families with young children10:00 a.m. Music by our Chancel Choir and Brass

Ensemble. Nursery provided.

Our Redeemer (LCMS) Corner of Birch and Fall Streets

(715) 835-5239

Our Holy Week service schedule is:

Maundy Thursday: 7:00 PM Chancel dramaGood Friday: 12:00 PM Reproaches service

7:00 PM Tenebrae serviceEaster Sunday: 6:30 AM Sunrise service

8:30 AM Traditional service 10:35 AM Contemporary service

[email protected] 8008153-19-16

Maundy Thursday - 6:15 pm We gather for the Lord’s Supper.

Good Friday - 1:00 & 6:15 pm Hear the story of Jesus as we follow Him to the cross.

Easter Morning - 7:00, 8:30 & 10:30Festival Worship: We celebrate this new creation with joyful song and we gather for Holy Communion.Easter breakfast will be served from 7:30 to 10:00 am.

Hope Lutheran Church2226 Eddy Lane, 832-1414 • www.hopechurchec.com 80

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Holy Week at Hope Lutheran Church


I lingered before Raphael’s “Madonna and Child with Saint John the Baptist.” The drawing, nearly 500 years old, survived to stir my soul. Later, I sat for nearly an hour in a room full of Monets, envisioning the famous artist as he recorded the simple stuff of life on canvas — hazy mornings, shimmering rivers, a bridge in fog, ordinary people. In the garden scenes, I imagined the tender touches of brush to canvas, capturing the watery image of spring rain, the subtle pastels of new life, the soft beauty of hope.

If you’ve ever tried to sketch or paint, write or compose, you know it’s harder than it looks. The artists make it look easy, but

“Madonna and Child” did not appear miraculously on paper one Sunday morning as Raphael sat on the piazza, sipping cappuccino and listening to cathedral bells. (Books, poems and stories don’t write themselves in hotel rooms while their authors bask in the poolside sun. Darn!)

We only see the end result of days, weeks or years of work. We see the painting but not the crumpled sketches, the mistakes or the smudges. We don’t hear the groans of frustration when the paint, or the inspiration, dries up. We read the story but never see the botched outlines, the subplots that dead-ended and the endless revisions. We don’t feel the spasms of fear at

opening ourselves up to criticism, the head-banging angst that precedes public exposure. What was I thinking? I have no talent for this! I must have been crazy to think I could do this.

As I was leaving the National Art Gallery, I passed two guards standing outside the building. I envied the museum guards. What was it like, I wondered, to spend day after day reveling in Renoir, marveling at Matisse, wowed by Whistler?

As I walked by, I overheard one guard say to the other, “I’ve never seen a hummingbird.” The statement startled me. He’d never seen a hummingbird? He spent his

By Mary Pierce

Works Artof

I wandered the National Gallery of Art in Washington D.C., through rooms full of paintings. Monet, Manet, Gauguin,

Cezanne, Homer, Van Gogh — all those names from art history in college. I wished I’d paid better attention in class.




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Please Join Us For Our Holy Week ServicesMaundy Thursday – March 24 at 7:00pm –

Joint service at Saving Grace Lutheran Church, Eastridge Center

Good Friday – March 25 at 7:00pm – Tenebrae ServiceEaster Sunday – March 27 at 9:00am – Celebration Service

We are located 3 blocks off of Main St. at 1704 Hogeboom Ave.Regular Sunday Worship – at 9:00amPastor Nick Henseler 715-514-2021

Worship with us anytime on our website under the sermon tab.

www.faithlutheranmc.org

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MARCH 27

Join us for Holy Week & Easter!

1310 Main St., Eau Claire, WI 54701P: 715-832-2421 E: [email protected]

Palm Sunday, March 208:45 a.m. & 10:45 a.m. Worship9:45 a.m. Sunday School(Breakfast served from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.)Maundy Thursday, March 2411:00 a.m. Worship6:30 p.m. Seder ServiceGood Friday, March 2511:00 a.m. & 6:30 p.m. WorshipEaster Sunday, March 277:00 a.m. Sunrise Service8:45 a.m. & 10:45 a.m. Worship

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About the authorMary Pierce is an author, humorist and counselor. Mary and her husband, Terry, live in Eau Claire where they await the return of the hummingbirds.

days surrounded by all that beautiful art, but he’d never seen a hummingbird.

There is a huge difference between seeing a hummingbird and seeing a picture of a hummingbird. The copy is never as good as the original. He’d never seen a real, live hummingbird. Quel dommage, I thought. (All that time with Monet had me thinking in French.) What a pity.

I’ve stood beak to beak with hummingbirds at my kitchen window. I’ve heard their soft thrumming approach as I sat on the deck, hovering so close to me the hair on my neck prickled. I’ve seen their colors, their iridescent throats changing from green to ruby red to green.

“I’ve never seen a hummingbird,” the man said, and I pitied him. He’d never seen this stunning example of God’s art in motion. God could have made all birds alike, could have stamped them out factory style. But he didn’t. For the sheer delight of creating, he made a medley of light and pattern, size and shape, habit and voice. He made hummingbirds, frenzy on the wing, finer and more glorious than any still and frozen beauty crafted by man.

And with that same sense of creative celebration, he made you and me.

Psalm 139:16 says, “Your eyes saw my unformed body.” God, the Artist, imagined me. He imagined you. God had a vision of who you would be, exactly how he would form you. He imagined you, as a sculptor sees the finished form before he begins to chip away the stone, as a painter sees the desired result before she ever takes brush in hand. God had a vision of you and you are, the Psalmist says, “fearfully and wonderfully made” (Psalm 139:14).

All of creation — hummingbirds, the gardens that inspired Monet and you — all creation is the jubilation of God.

God imagined us, created us, and we, like every work of art, are connected to our Creator. We sense the spark of hope he set in our soul. When we listen carefully, we hear his voice, whispering to our hearts. We sense our Creator calling to us, inviting intimacy. We burn as the divine breath fans hope’s spark into flame, igniting our passion and giving us purpose.

And we take the leap into his arms, risking all, crying, “Yes, Lord!” and trusting him to make something beautiful of our lives.




“All are invited to Holy Week and Easter at

St. John’s Lutheran Church”PALM SUNDAYMarch 208:15am & 10:45am Worship8:30am - 12:00 Brunch

MAUNDY THURSDAYMarch 2412:15pm & 7:00pm Worship with Holy Communion

GOOD FRIDAYMarch 2512:15pm & 7:00pm Worship

EASTER SUNDAYMarch 276:55am Sunrise Worship8:15am Festival Worship10:45am Festival Worship(interpreting for hearing impaired)

St. John’s Lutheran Church1804 Highland Ave. 715-834-9571

(off Bus. Hwy 53, 2 blocks west of Perkins)www.stjohns-ec.org

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3214 Golf Road • Eau Claire, WI 715-832-7832

Holy Week Maundy Thursday �� 7:00 p�m� Good Friday �� 7:00 p�m� Easter �� 7:00 a�m� and 9:30 a�m� Easter Brunch �� 8:00-9:00 a�m�

Immanuel is located two blockseast of Hwy. 93 on Golf Road

www.immanuelec.org800809 3-19-16

March 25 Good Friday Service 7:30 p.m.March 27 Special Easter Service 10:00 a.m.

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Pentecostal Assembly Church

9 Ninth AvenueEau Claire, WI 54703

715-832-2361

MAUNDY THURSDAY 7:00pm GOOD FRIDAY 7:00pmCelebrate the Resurrection! EASTER SUNDAY SUNRISE SERvICE 6:00am CElEbRATION WORSHIp 9:00am

ST JAMES TRINITY lUTHERAN305 STATE STREET

FAll CREEK715-877-2160

pASTOR JOANNE SORENSON

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Truax Congregational Church of the United Church of Christ

1008 50th St, Eau Claire, WI 54703(1 mile north of 312 on Kane Road)

Easter Services at 7:00 a.m. and 9:30 a.m.With a POTLUCK between services.

Regular Services at 9:30 a.m.Pastor David Stratton

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In Jesus’ life on Earth, there were a chosen few who knew him well and loved him dearly.

There were thousands who flocked to see him, to touch him, to hear him speak.

There were crowds who waited for hours to be healed by him, but only a few truly knew him – face to face, walking with him daily

and following his lead. Jesus’ impact on their lives would leave them forever changed. Do we know him that way?

As Mary Magdalene left the empty tomb on the very first resurrection day, she could think of only one thing – I have to be with my Savior; I need Him. As the tears rolled down her cheeks

and her heart began to break, she turned, and there he was.

He is always there for those who seek him. We need him more than we know. He loves us more than we could ever imagine, and in moments when he seems far away, he is closer than we realize.

This Easter as we remember his death and resurrection, could we seek to know him more?

If we’re feeling condemned because we’ve set foot on the wrong path, all we need to do is turn. There he is. His open arms of

grace are ready for us even before we choose them. Then, as we settle into the loving embrace of the one who knows us better

than we know ourselves, let us not keep our joy hidden.

On Easter Sunday, March 27 this year, and every single day of the year, may his light shine brightly through his children even in the

darkest places.

To Know Him

About the authorJenny Blaisdell lives with her husband and their three kids in northwest Wisconsin. Writing is her most loved hobby and faith is her favorite topic. Jenny is employed as the family programs director for her local Community Learning Center.

By Jenny Blaisdell




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March 24: 11 am & 6:30 pmMaundy Thursday

March 25: 1 pm & 6:30 pmGood Friday

March 27: 7 am & 10 amEaster Sunday

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715-834-2595

Worship With UsEaster Services

6:30 & 8:30 a.m. Worship Service with CommunionBreakfast Served at 7:30

St. PaulÊs Lutheran Church721 South State St.

Fall Creek, WI715-877-2117

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LCMS

UNITY CHRIST CENTER 1808 Folsom Street, Eau Claire, WI 54703715-836-0010 ~ www.unityeauclaire.org ~ [email protected]

Good Friday, March 25 • 1-3pmSilent Meditation Labyrinth Walk

Come when you can; leave when you must

Sunday, March 2710am Easter Sunday Service

11am Easter Egg Hunt

“We behold the Christ in you.”

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It’s ironic that just three months earlier that I, as a Christian, celebrated the birth of a child named Jesus. And

soon, I will struggle with a day that is called GOOD. GOOD FRIDAY.

How can that be that this same Jesus is now despised and sentenced to death?

Did I not read in my Bible that Jesus did wonderful things? He cured the sick, brought back to life some people, fed 5,000 followers and gave sight to the blind and hearing to the deaf. Those were good things, right?

How could such loving kindnesses end in a sentence of death? Here was a man who surrounded himself with 12 individuals. They were his constant companions and witnessed his numerous called miracles. They were ready to fight for him in the garden when arrested. Not so.

Sometimes I think that we need Jesus to physically return to this world. I especially perk up my ears when I hear individuals emphatically acclaim: “I would never be amongst those who cried out CRUCIFY HIM, CRUCIFY HIM!”

Strong faith, right? I won’t knock it; however Jesus’ gang of 12 suddenly disappeared on the night of his arrest. One individual had gone out and hanged himself. Two others trailed along as Jesus was taken to be tried by Pilate. They denied even knowing the man.

Oh, and unless we forget, Jesus’ disciples were no place to be found as he trudged along with a beam of wood headed for Calvary. Veronica was there to wipe his sweat-smeared face. But it was a stranger named Simon who helped him carry the 80-pound piece of wood on which he would die.

What about that horrific scene of three men hanging on crosses? Were they, and especially the man in the middle, surrounded by friends? No! A couple of women by the name of Mary were there along with Jesus’ beloved John. Did Jesus not cry out “Father, forgive them for they know not what they are doing?”

Not many persons heard Jesus’ message of forgiveness back then. Even his so-called companions were absent, other than his beloved John. So, as I contemplate another end to the Lenten season and the so-called Good Friday, I often think how loyal of a follower I would be if Jesus made another worldly visit. Really? Would my free will kick in and allow me to follow in Jesus’ footsteps? Or would I too deny Jesus?

What will it be? Am I not included in that cry from the cross, “Father forgive them?” Can I now respond to what Jesus once said: “I thirst, not for water, but for LOVE!” Yes, I can. JESUS, I LOVE YOU!

By Steve Henry

“I Thirst — Not for Water”

About the authorSteve Henry is a former radio and television news director and a retired outdoors writer and photographer from Chippewa Falls.




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Easter Sunday, March 276:30 A.M. Festival Worship led by Youth with Communion

8:00 A.M. Festival Traditional Worship9:30 A.M. Festival Contemporary Worship

10:45 A.M. Festival Worship with Communion

Lake Street United Methodist Church Corner of Lake Street and Fourth Avenue

Tel. 715-832-6603

HOLY WEEK and EASTER SERVICES

Palm Sunday, March 20 8:30 and 10:00 am Palm Celebra on

What the Master Needs

Maundy Thursday, March 24 at 6:30 pm Sacrament of Holy Communion

Good Friday, March 25 at 6:30 pm

Service of Gathering Darkness

Easter Sunday, March 27

8:30 and 10:00 am Easter Worship Belie f

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Celebrate Jesus’ Resurrection!Join us this Easter at Bethesda Lutheran ChurchPalm Sunday Choir

Concert (March 20)“Son of God, Son of Man”

....... 3:00 pm

Good Friday (March 25)Tenebrae (Traditional) ... 1:00 pmShadows (Eleeo) ........... 6:30 pmEaster Morning

Worship ServicesTraditional ..................... 7:45 amTraditional ..................... 9:00 amContemporary ............. 10:30 amModern Worship .........10:30 am

123 W. Hamilton Avenue, Eau Claire, Wisconsin

www.C3ec.org | 715.835.507380

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2124 EastRidge Center, Eau Claire, WI • 715-514-3552

Maundy Thursday Worship w/Faith Lutheran ......7:00 pmGood Friday Worship ...............................................NoonEaster Eve Worship ...............................................5:00 pmEaster Sunday Worship ..................7:00, 8:30 & 10:40 am

Holy Week Services

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No one ever wants a letter from the Internal Revenue Service — unless, of course, it contains a refund check. The letter stated it was a random audit. The IRS runs a random computer batch of Social Security numbers, and when your number is up, you are a candidate for review.

Ugh! The thought of being investigated by a government office was extremely intimidating to me. The letter stated that either I or my husband could make an appointment to go over the previous year’s tax return. It turned out I was the lucky candidate. A week before my appointment, an acquaintance from work suggested that I pray before I entered the IRS building. He also suggested I hold open the door and allow the Lord to go before me.

The day of the dreaded appointment arrived, I nervously walked towards the building when I remembered what my friend suggested. “Why not!?” After all I believed in God for other things in my life. Why not this too? Is there anything too big for God?

I held open the oversized door and waited a few minutes to allow God to go before me. I found the directory and quickly pinpointed where the IRS office was located on the second floor. As I began to walk up the curving staircase, I was startled by the man sitting underneath the stairs. He commented loudly, “Must have been a very important person you allowed through those doors!”

Too nervous to explain, I quickly shook my head yes and bolted up the stairs.

After checking in with the receptionist, I quickly found a seat between two suited men with briefcases. As each suit was called for his appointment, my nerves began to fray. “Lord, please let a woman audit me.” My prayer became more of a desperate plea. I barely finished the words when a sweet voice called out my name. As I followed the petite lady back to her office, a calming peace swept over me.

“Mrs. Frock, no need to be nervous. This is a random audit, and I just need proof from you for a few of the itemized deductions. First, do you have a statements from your church for your offerings? Second, we need proof of the rental property you own.” After quickly reviewing all the statements, she looked up through her glasses. “Well, it looks like everything is order here. There is a difference of $100. I will give you a return envelope, and you can mail it in at your convenience. Have good day, Mrs. Frock.”

As I walked down the stairs and towards the door, the voice from the bottom of the stairwell sounded one more time. “ So did He take care of everything for you?”

“Yes he did,” I answered him back.

“The LORD is the one who goes ahead of you; He will be with you He will not fail you or forsake you.” Deuteronomy 31:8

The Audit

About the authorLonnie Frock and her husband, David, live in Eau Claire. They have been blessed with five adopted children and six grandchildren. She is involved in a monthly critic group and Christian writers’ guild.

By Lonnie Frock




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UniversityLutheran Church

(ELCA)

Maundy Thursday ServiceThursday, March 24 • 6:00pm

Good Friday ServiceFriday, March 25 • 12:15pm

In Cooperation with the Newman Catholic Parish

Easter Sunday ServiceSunday, March 27 • 10:00am

Ecumenical Religious Center110 Garfi eld Avenue, Eau Claire

www.universitylutheran.org

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The Aging & Disability Resource Center (ADRC) of Eau Claire County can help you explore options such as Meals on Wheels, in-home supportive home care services, transportation, adult day services, support groups, caring for someone with dementia such as the Memory Care Connections program, planning for future care needs and much more.

Call the ADRC today and set up an office or home visit at your convenience to get started on exploring your options. The sooner you learn about local resources the better prepared and less stressed you will be in providing care to a loved one. For more information, call the ADRC at 715-839-4735, email at [email protected] or check us out online at www.eauclaireadrc.org.

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A Good StartWhen you first learn that a loved one needs help it is hard to know where to begin. Sometimes there is a sudden change of health that prompts you to get involved, such as a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease or other dementia. Other times it is a gradual realization that the person is no longer capable of meeting all of their needs. In addition, there is so much information on the Internet and so many resources available in the community, this alone can be overwhelming! Where do you begin?

Article provided by Aging and Disabilities Resource Center.

The goal of the Memory Care Connections program is to

provide knowledge and support to people caring for a loved

one with Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia.

A Memory Care Consultant will:

Assess your situation and discuss your concerns.

Help you and your family understand Alzheimer’s disease and

related dementias and how the disease may progress over

time.

Work with you and your family on developing a plan that

supports you.

Discuss strategies, provide coping tools and problem solving

skills that will help reduce stress.

Assist you in obtaining community resources and support

Contact the Aging & Disability Resource Center of Eau Claire

County at 715-839-4735 or [email protected]

Meals on Wheels of Eau Claire County

If you or someone you love is 60 years

or older, struggles to get out and

grocery shop and cooking is difficult,

have Lunch with us... let us do the

cooking.

A nutritious, freshly prepared, tasty, hot meal delivered to

your door at the noon time by a friendly volunteer.

Included is a daily wellbeing check to ensure safety and a

social connection. Delivering Smiles one meal at a time .

Call the Aging & Disability Resource Center Nutrition

Program, 715-839-4886.

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Connell’sSupper ClubLake Wissota

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Serving 11am to 3 pm

EASTER SUNDAYFamily style dinner

Chicken, ham, mashed potatoes,

vegetable, dressing, gravy, cracker

basket, relish tray & dinner rolls

Club 12 Now Serving Lunch! Tuesday through Friday - starting at 11am

Spring is here! Come enjoy our deck!!



I’ll admit it: I’m a readaholic. Nothing makes me happier than going to the library on a Saturday morning and filling my book bag with at least a dozen new paperbacks. The minute I get home, I crack open one of the coveted books, and I don’t come up for air until Sunday evening. And then I wonder, “What happened to the weekend?!”

My favorite genre is cozy mysteries because I don’t have to be subjected to a lot of blood and gore; yet, the mystery has enough twists and turns to keep me interested until the last page. As a bonus, the main character usually does or says something that makes me think.

Recently I re-read one of my favorite cozies and was struck anew by the poignancy of some of the passages. The main character, Lori, had rather reluctantly befriended a homeless man. At first, Lori found the man a “nuisance” (her description) because he “forced me to look at things I didn’t want to see and remember things I wanted to forget.” As she learned his life story and realized all the good he had done in the world, her feelings changed. “He reminded me that blessings aren’t a right – they’re a gift,” she said. “I’m no more entitled to them than anyone else, and I’m ashamed of myself for not remembering it sooner.”

What a profound statement. And Lori is so right. How many times have I rather smugly thought, “I’m a good person … I deserve happiness.” But the truth of the matter is why do I deserve happiness more than anyone else? The reality is that every good thing that happens to me is a blessing from God. It is up to me to make sure I don’t become self-righteous and oblivious to the needs of those around me.

Pope Francis, in this Year of Mercy, reminds us to hear the voices of the poor, sick, homeless or lost, and respond in mercy. We know that Jesus was born into poverty and lived his life among people who were adrift and marginalized. The Gospel calls all who are followers of Jesus to feed the hungry, clothe the naked and have compassion for the sick. But, practically speaking, how can we do that? How can we make sure we’re not oblivious to the needs of those around us?

There are so many wonderful opportunities in the Chippewa Valley to help those in need. The Sojourner House gives shelter to the homeless. The St. Francis Food Pantry and Feed My People

offer sustenance to those who would otherwise go without. The Chippewa Valley Free Clinic in Eau Claire and the Open Door Clinic in Chippewa Falls give needed medical care to those with limited or no health insurance. These are just a few examples of organizations that provide assistance to those who are struggling in our community.

But beyond the physical needs, how can we respond to the emotional needs of others? People can be cruel to one another. Harsh words are spoken. Anger erupts at the drop of a hat. Name calling and insults ensue. Rudeness is commonplace. And that’s just at the presidential debates!

Let’s face it: our world needs more kindness and compassion. Being kind to one another can be easy to do and doesn’t have to cost one penny.

Here are just a few ideas: Listen to people with interest and concern, giving them your full attention.

Be compassionate to someone who seems to be having a bad day. They may be hurting in ways we can’t even begin to comprehend.

Lend an elderly person a hand, whether it’s doing their grocery shopping, helping with yard or house work, or taking them to an appointment.

Call someone you haven’t talked to in a while, just to let them know you’re thinking of them.

Gently encourage someone who seems to be at a low point in their life. Your support may be just what they need to see the world in a brighter light.

Remind your friends and loved ones every day that they are a blessing in your life.

When someone angers you, think twice before you respond with a barrage of harsh declarations. Remember, words are powerful. Every word we use can result in a negative or positive impact.

Practicing acts of kindness should be a natural expression of who we are. When we are sensitive and attentive to the physical and emotional needs of those around us, we can make a positive difference in the world, one person at a time.

Acts of Kindness

About the authorMary Ellen Bliss has been a colleague at HSHS Sacred Heart Hospital since 2006, where she is the office facilitator for the Center for Spiritual Care.

By Mary Ellen Bliss

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I Gave Him Up for LentBy Sally Lewis

I thought he may have been heaven sent,then I gave them up for Lent.

I refrain from calling, saving my strength,For a fellow who I know can endure a great length.

Let God and let go is the name of the show,Eventually fears melt away like the snow.

I want God to be first in my heart,No earthly man can have that part.

Even though some days we feel frail,Coupled with Christ, we cannot fail.

About the AuthorSally Lewis is an emerging healing artist residing on her home farm in New Auburn.

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Not MineBy Savanna Blaisdell

When the world is cold and dark,I will be the light, the golden spark.

But the light is not mine.My creator, the maker of the universe,

Shines through me.

About the AuthorSavanna Blaisdell, a freshman, is 14. Although she has a quiet nature, Savanna loves to share her growing faith when the opportunity arises.


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Crossing the RiverBy Deetje J. Wildes

I glimpse the Destroyeras he passes over me.

He sensesblood of the Lamb here,

and trembles,for I have dipped

my branch of hyssopin the basin

and covered my housetop of door frame

and left side and rightall of me dripping scarlet,

steeped in infinite covenantbetween Father and Son,

sacrifice beyond comprehension,Lamb slain from eternity past.

I cross the Red Seaand begin a forever dance

with Miriam.Come, you free captives,

celebrate with me.Rejoice as we await

that next great crossing.Jordan River, too will part.

Let’s go across together,eager to greet

the Risen Lamb.

About the AuthorDeetje J. Wildes enjoys making music and experimenting with visual arts. She attends Bethesda Lutheran Brethren Church in Eau Claire and is an enthusiastic member of the Western Wisconsin Christian Writers Guild.


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Blessed CalvaryBy David Hanvelt and Steven Cheney

The hammers fell, a cross was raised,As storm clouds filled the skies.

Some mocked the one they called a king,Some ran away to hide.

Each drop of blood he shed that day,Brought vic’try from defeat.

And when he cried, “It’s finished,”His mission was complete.

Blessed Calvary, where our Savior died.Blessed Calvary, when heaven’s gates burst open wide.

He broke the chains of sin and set us free.Oh what mercy, grace and love beyond degree,

At blessed Calvary.

A stone rolled back, an empty grave,We serve a risen Lord.

That’s how we know that cruel crossWas what he came here for.

‘Cause only heaven’s perfect lambCould be this sacrifice.

And through our faith in Jesus,We have eternal life.

Surely, this was God’s only son.The one who would redeem us with his own precious

blood.

Blessed Calvary, where our Savior died.Blessed Calvary, when heaven’s gates burst open wide.

He broke the chains of sin and set us free.Oh what mercy, grace and love beyond degree,

At blessed Calvary.

CalvaryBy Helen R. Mroz

Did you ever catch a visionOf Golgotha’s lonely hill?

Of the darkness and the earth quake,Then how every thing grows still?

Up against that far horizon,There appear the crosses — three.

In the center hung the Savior,Shedding His blood for you and me.

Yes, it is the King of Heaven.Wounded, bleeding, suffering, sore.

He’s partaking of this torture,So that we will die no more.

Isaiah 53:5But He was wounded for our transgressions,

He was bruised for our iniquities:The chastisement of our peace upon Him;

and with His stripes we are healed.

About the AuthorDavid Hanvelt of Eau Claire has been an author and gospel songwriter for more than 40 years with 100-plus recordings of his songs by various artists. Steven

Cheney is an assistant pastor and worship leader in Zanesville, Ohio. They have collaborated on 17 published songs,

with David writing lyrics and Steven doing music composition.

About the AuthorHelen R. Mroz of Eau Claire self-

published a book of poems, “Poems With a Message.” She is retired.

It Was JesusBy Faith Blaisdell

There’s a path, there’s a wayfor your special day,

and sometimes you might wonder who did it.If you asked me I would say,

“It was Jesus.”

It’s Jesus who gave up His life for you.God gave you His one and only son.

It was Jesus who gave you the choiceof salvationof salvation.

Jesus is the one who planned your life.Jesus is the one who gave His life.Jesus is the one, Jesus is the onewho sacrificed, who sacrificed,

and He gave youthe choice of salvation.

There’s a path, there’s a wayfor your special day,

and sometimes you might wonder who did it.If you asked me I would say,

“It was Jesus.”

It’s Jesus who gave up His life for you.God gave you His one and only son.

It was Jesus who gave you the choiceof salvationof salvation.

Jesus is the one who planned your life.Jesus is the one who gave His life.Jesus is the one, Jesus is the onewho sacrificed, who sacrificed,

and He gave youthe choice of salvation.

About the AuthorFaith Blaisdell, 8, is in the third grade. She loves to learn and really enjoys singing. Almost as soon as she could write, she began writing little poems and songs. She sometimes uses the tune to a song she has heard and writes new words to it.



One Tiny SeedBy Loraine Faschingbauer

A seed so tiny you cannot seeis put in every heart.

It needs nourishment to grow.

God’s love is where it starts.

We sow and reap it dailyas years come and go.

God tenderly watches the seed.Your heart HE truly knows. About the Author

Loraine Faschingbauer of Bloomer is a retired nursing home activity assistant. She is a poet and author, having published “Against All Odds,” the story of one of her ventilator residents.

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Documents

Faith Walk Spring 2016