Volume 85, No. 10 - August 14, 2016

... Let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus the pioneer and perfecter of our faith...

(Hebrews 12:1-2 excerpt)

St. Matthew’s Mission StatementCalled to fulfill the Great Commission, St. Matthew’s Welcomes all to faith in Jesus Christ, Nurtures our faith journey, Equips us to serve others, and Sends us into the world to make a difference in Jesus’ name.

The Voice of St. Matthew’sThe newsletter of St. Matthew’s Ev. Lutheran Church

Christopher Manke, Matthew Schlake-Kruse and Ann Williams, Pastors

1615 Wauwatosa Avenue, Wauwatosa, WI 53213414-774-0441 fax 414-774-0989

E-mail: office@stmattslutheran.orgVisit our website: www.StMattsLutheran.org

SUMMER Sunday worship at 7:30, 8:30, 10:15 a.m.USPS 662-800 -- Published Monthly - Twice monthly in March, July, October and December by St. Matthew’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, 1615 Wauwatosa Ave., Wauwatosa, WI 53213 (phone 774-0441) Periodicals postage paid at Milwaukee, WI. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: The Voice of St. Matthew’s, St. Matthew’s Ev. Lutheran Church, 1615 Wauwatosa Avenue, Wauwatosa, WI 53213. Submit articles to the church office in care of Sonja Mohr, Newsletter Editor, or sonjamohr@me.com

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Pastor’s Voice: Back to School—Jesus StyleWhen he was alone, those who were around him along with the twelve asked him about the parables. And he said to them, ‘To you has been given the secret of the kingdom of God, but for those outside, everything comes in parables; in order that “they may indeed look, but not perceive, and may indeed listen, but not understand; so that they may not turn again and be forgiven.” ’—Mark 4:11-12

I found myself in the back corner of Target the other day, shocked at the reality before me—the back-to-school items already neatly aligned, revealing the truth that a new season of learning is ahead. Our journey through scripture each Sunday has also been about Jesus’ revealing the truth of learning. We’re in the midst of a long stretch of parables—the little lessons and simple stories and confounding combinations of God’s world is like _____________. There are volumes unpacking what these parables mean. Blogs have figured out the analogies of each character and image Jesus uses. Farm stories and King stories and fish stories and weird stories have been solved like story problems by Christians for centuries. A few sermons have claimed to have them all “figured out.”

But like so much of our learning throughout life, Jesus’ parables aren’t math problems, or vocabulary tests, or even measures of our reading comprehension. They are meant to “tell it slant,” as Eugene Peterson says. They aim to reveal the promises of God’s kin_dom, judgment, and grace. They are meant to get us as people of faith to begin to see and learn and comprehend the mystery of God’s love and grace. Which don’t come naturally to us as human beings. Which run contrary to the way we’ve been told the world works. As my favorite parable-interpreter, Robert Farrar Capon says, “Jesus’ parables may well be the best way we have of ensuring we will be listening to what he himself has to say, instead of what we are prepared to hear” (Kingdom, Grace, and Judgment, p. 5). It will take a lot of work for us not to see these stories and teaching tales as faith problems for us to figure out, solutions to be worked through with the “right” formulas. Instead, the parables are Jesus’ invitation to the world—that we might hear and see and know in our bones the grace and love of God—the world God’s been dreaming of, not the world we are certain (and have been taught our whole lives long) we’ve got figured out. May the science and artistry of Jesus’s teaching challenge our preconceived notions and push our learning of God’s love to new places in our journey of lifelong learning! Pastor Matt

On the cover: In 2013, Tobias Bass, from Oklahoma, was determined to help his older brother Titus, who has cerebral palsy, run a 5K by pushing him in a running stroller. He wrote a letter asking a local news station to help him to get the stroller they needed. The news station staff did, and ten-year-old Tobias pushed Titus the entire 3.2-mile race. He hopes one day to complete an Ironman Triathlon. Photo courtesy of John Marshall High School Foundation, Oklahoma City, OK.

Upcoming EventsPage 3

You’re invited to sing with the summer choir on August 14 Here’s a chance to sing with a choir on a short-term basis, on August 14. Stop by the Choir Room (2nd floor, south side of building) at 9:30 a.m., learn a piece of music for the 10:15 a.m. service, and then present it on the very same day. On August 14, we’ll be learning a beautiful arrangement of “Amazing Grace.” Youth welcome. The summer choir director is David Mohr.

Summer Salad Suppers & Social Issues scheduled for Sunday evenings, August 14 & 21, 6:00 p.m. Join Pastor Matt and others for two weeks of salad suppers and discussion of social issues as this summer, we explore poverty on local, national, and global levels. We’ll meet Sunday nights, August 14 and 21st in the upper commons from 6:00-8:00, share a salad supper, and discuss the important book, $2 a Day. Join us for this important discussion.

August Fellowship Event: Join St. Matt’s friends at Tosa Tonight! Looking for a fun night out? Join St. Matthew’s for fellowship time at the August 17th edition of TosaTonight at the Hart Park Bandshell, 68th and State Streets. Look for the God’s Work Our Hands Shirt “Flag” to find a group of St. Matthew’s people and enjoy yummy food from Maxie’s, Leff’s, and BelAir Cantina while enjoying the IrishFest Preview Night. At 6 p.m., JigJam, a “Celt-grass” blend of Irish folk and bluegrass will play from their debut album. At 7:30, Scottish Celtic Rock band Skerryvore will take the stage. Watch the St. Matt’s Facebook page for more details!

Healing Service Schedule: All are welcome at monthly healing services Healing services are offered monthly at St. Matthew’s at a variety of times to give all the opportunity to come forward for healing prayer for themselves or others. You can share your concern with the pastor/leader at the altar, and then he/she along with the healing ministries will lay on hands and give a special prayer for your concern. Your concern can be general if you don’t wish to share specifically. Sunday, August 21 After the 10:15 serviceSunday, September 18 After the 11:00 serviceSunday, October 9 8:30 & 11:00 servicesSunday, November 20 After the 11:00 service

Bishop’s Installation at St. Matthew’s, Oct. 8 St. Matthew’s has been selected to host the installation of the new Bishop of the Greater Milwaukee Synod, Pastor Paul Erickson. Join us at 2 p.m. on Saturday, October 8th for festive worship with Holy Communion, led by Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton, preaching by ELCA leader Pastor Ruben Duran, and welcoming Bishop Paul to our synod. We will be needing many volunteers around St. Matthew’s before the installation to welcome many guests to our congregation and building. Watch for sign-ups to help be on our “Welcome Team” in future publications and on Facebook! Farewell to Bishop Jeff Barrow: If you’d like to bid farewell to retiring Synod Bishop Jeff Barrow, plan to attend the good-bye worship service on Sunday, August 28 at 2 p.m. at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, 30th & Wisconsin Avenue (parking lot off Wells St.).

St. Matt’s First Fridays Book Club reveals Reading List for year The St. Matthew’s book group, which usually meets on the first Friday of each month beginning in October, has shared their 2016-17 reading list. It is available at church or on our website. Here are the first four books for the year:October 7: Crossing to Safety by Wallace Stegner (335 pages)November 4: Orphan #8: A Novel by Kim van Alkemade

(416 pages)December 2: Just Mercy: A Story of Justice and

Redemption by Bryan Stevenson (336 pages)

January 6: The Jesus Cow: A Novel by Michael Perry (283 pages)

Pastor Chris on Sabbaticalthrough September 30 Pr. Chris has begun his three-month sabbatical. While we may see him from time to time, he has several trips planned and won’t have regular office hours. Please keep him and his family in your prayers. During this time in August, he has planned a trip to Tanzania, and will be visiting Pastor Elias Kitoi.

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This Fall: Animate PracticesA small group experience for everyone who wants to grow in faith! Animate: Practices is a seven-session adult introduction to the central practices of the Christian faith. In each session, the group will watch a video featuring a leading voice from the Christian faith, spend time on personal reflection and journaling, and share ideas with one another. At the end of each session, the Journal guides us through six different ways that we can practice the discipline during the following week. Built on centrist Protestant theology, it’s not too liberal or too conservative. The sessions are thoughtful, edgy, and present interesting ideas! Here are the topics we’ll cover:

Prayer: Oriented toward GodWorship: Seeking God’s PresenceMoney: The Joy of SharingCommunity: An Unexpected FamilyFood: Eating with JesusSacraments: A Tapestry of Tradition

Service: The Needs Right in Front of YouThis will be a great study for your small group this fall! We are also planning to form new groups and host some groups at church so that means we need small group facilitators. You do not need to teach or lead this study. Facilitators just ask questions that are provided and keep the conversation on track. Please contact Sue Swing; sueswing@sbcglobal.net for more info or go to sparkhouse | Animate Practices for Adults

diakonia is a 2 year lay ministry/leader program for lay persons who want to explore their faith and spiritual gifts in a deeper way. It’s kind of like ‘confirmation for adults’-- two years of intentional study and learning for those who want to take their faith journey to the next level.Twelve courses over two years provide a deep theological grounding in these classic topics: Old and New Testament, Early Church History, Worship, Ethics, Doctrine, Creeds and Confessions, Lutheran Church in North America, Daily Life of a Christian, and practical ministry courses too; Visitation, Biblical Images of the Church, and Communicating the Gospel. Please take the time to consider enrolling in the diakonia program. Classes will begin right after Labor Day and we need applications before August 15. Weekly classes will be held at:

St. John’s Brookfield, Saturday morningsLord of Life Kenosha, Monday eveningsOur Savior’s Milwaukee, Tuesday eveningsChrist the King Pt. Washington, Tuesday evenings

Contact Diane Roznowski, diane.roznowski@gmail.com, 414-807-7451 for further info or visit https://milwaukeesynod.org/what-we-do/education/diakonia/ for more info and registration forms.

Coming this fall: Augsburg Reformation Library A Book Fair for Christians This September and October, St. Matthew’s will be host to a special 500th Anniversary “Bookstore” with many new resources and books on Luther, the Reformation, and Lutherans available for order and purchase! With 50% savings on books for all ages and reading levels, take advantage of this bookstore in our midst. Watch for more information in September!

Sunday Morning Volunteers - Notes: Sunday morning volunteers are scheduled utilizing Ministry Scheduler Pro (MSP), an on-line scheduling program. Using this on-line system you are able to specify exactly what times do and do not work well for you to serve. You are also able to check your schedule from anywhere and easily find a substitute when you can’t make one of your scheduled dates. Guidelines and procedures for all ministry positions are available on-line as well. • The current schedule runs through September 4, 2016. If you need the log in information or if you have any questions

at all please contact Sue Swing; sueswing@sbcglobal.net. 414-774-0441 • Please submit dates you cannot serve for the next scheduling period: September 11-December 25, 2016. If you are

aware of Sundays that you will not be available please add those dates as “Can’t Serve Dates” in your profile on-line or contact Sueswing@sbcglobal.net with those dates.

• All Acolytes, Communion Assistants and Lay Readers - Please remember to sign in on the orange sheet in the Sacristy when you arrive. The pastors need to know you are in church and present for serving.

God’s Work. Our Hands.Building up God’s World through ServiceOctober 1-2, 2016 On October 2, 2016 St. Matthew’s will participate in the ELCA’s fourth annual God’s Work. Our Hands. day of dedicated service. We thank God for the willing workers of all ages who have contributed their time and energy the last three years; over 100 St. Matt’s members visibly served their neighbors during the 2015 event. Our hope this year is to expand the leadership, participation, and scope of God’s Work. Our Hands. While we will facilitate some favorite opportunities from years past, we invite you to increase our reach by assuming the leadership role for one project of your design that is close to your heart. Would you be willing to gather a few friends, family members, small group members, fellow committee members, or folks you’d like to know better, to address a need that cries out to you? The goal is community outreach and the commitment is brief. And, you will all get to wear the spiffy yellow God’s Work. Our Hands. t-shirts to show who you are. Do you have an elderly neighbor who would appreciate some yard work or window washing? Would public servants in the community enjoy some cookies or doughnuts? Do your kids like to make cards for folks who are lonely or away from home for the first time? Can you bring music somewhere to brighten someone’s day? Do you see a specific opportunity related to a ministry you are already involved in? You faithful and creative people of God see, hear, and feel many of the needs around us. Our hope and belief is that you will jump on board to do God’s Work with your Hands in a very visible way on Sunday, October 2. We know so well that you do God’s work every day. We are asking that on this one day you do some of it with other St. Matt’s members in conjunction with the members of ELCA congregations throughout the nation. Together we do make a difference in the world. Using the “Building Blocks” in the Upper Commons, when you have decided on your service project, take a block, use one of the markers and write your pledge service activity, and watch as together we build up the community of love and service around us.

NEEDED forGod’s Work. Our HandsAddresses:St. Matthew’s will be celebrating God’s Work. Our Hands, on Sunday, October 2, 2016. As a part of the ELCA’s national dedicated day of service, a group of our members will be writing care letters to St. Matt’s students in college and to those serving in the military, but we need your help. If you have a son or daughter in either of those categories, Please email their names and addresses to Sonja Mohr in the church office by September 25 so that we might let them know that the people of St. Matthew’s are thinking about them. Thank you!

Projects:Do you need help with a project around your home? Do you need help with fall clean-up? Several of our teams are looking for projects they can help with on God’s Work, Our Hands weekend, October 1 – 2. If you need help, please contact Pr. Matt or the office and we will match you with a team.

God’s Work. Our Hands. October 1 & 2Page 5

This is a great time to consider joining The Lutheran A Cappella Choir! Auditions for singers to participate in the 2016-17 season of the Lutheran A Cappella Choir of Milwaukee will be held on Saturday, August 13th, from 10:00-11:30 a.m. at St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church, 1615 N. Wauwatosa Ave., Wauwatosa. Previous choral experience is required and singers of all faiths are welcome to audition. For more information on audition requirements or to schedule an audition appointment, send an email to David Mohr at director@lutheranacappella.org. Interested singers not able to make these dates may send an email to schedule another mutually convenient audition time.

Join us for a Cross Partnership Event!Sunday, August 21 - Cross Community Picnic Later in August, spend a few hours with our partners at Cross for great food, fun games and music. Bring your families and help us as we build partner relationships!St. Matthew’s will be serving at a dessert station, and we need 10-12 volunteers to staff it during the picnic! Sign up on the bulletin panel or email Pastor Matt (mrkruse@gmail.com) if you’re able to volunteer. You can choose to attend the early shift (11:30-1:30) or the later one (1:30-3:30).

Just One More Ministry has successfulTitus Trail Relay Fundraiser “Dear St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church,Thank you so much for your recent donation of $328.05 to Just One More Ministry and for helping make our Titus Trail Relay Fundraiser a success. With your help we have raised over $48,000. This will be used to help us buy much needed kitchen equipment so that we can prepare more meals for food insecure adults and children in Milwaukee. Just One More Ministry ‘rescues’ prepared and fresh food that would have been discarded by local restaurants, grocery stores, bakeries and delis. Each week we distribute over 2,000 health meals to 40 inner-city partners. Since the quantity of our rescued food can vary from week to week, monetary and unexpected food donations such as yours help us meet our commitment to our ministry partners. With your help, we will distribute more food and feed more families in the inner city of Milwauikee area, serving children, families and seniors. Thank you for joining us in this ministry. Blessings. Chris Capper Founder/CEOSpecial thanks to the organizer DJ Rodrian, to our anonymous matching donor, and to everyone who participated in prayer or financial giving.

Tosa Cares Pantry sends thanks forour support “We would like to thank you for your continued support with your recent generous donations...Cash donations are used to purchase protein products for our clients. Our next distribution will be held on August 6. At our last distribution ... we supplied 140 families with a box of nonperishable food items along with frozen protein products designed to last for a two week period. In addition our clients were able to elect canned goods including ketchup & mustard, bread and other baked goods, diapers, baby food and summer clothing. Additionally the Wauwatosa Farmer’s Market representative was on hand to help with information regarding accessing fresh product this coming season. ...The need for basic food supply continues to be great in our community, but with your assistance we are empowered to meet those needs. We could not serve the number of people that we do without your support, thank you.” Kathy Roesch, Tosa Cares

A Thank You from Reformation Lutheran “We are heartened by your financial gift for the Angel Community Garden. We will be mindful of your generosity when we work in the garden. The garden helps the church build community with its neighbors who work alongside youth, members and partners in the garden. “Our community garden was in need of funds for shrubs and water during this hot summer. Thank you. Special thanks go out to the Caring for Creation Team who began our work a decade ago on the County grounds, built the raised gardens and cultivated the soil. “Our Angel Garden ministry helps all of our ministries with people. So many people begin their faith walk by coming to us, with hands outstretched in need. Reformation empowers people to contribute and give of themselves. We use intentional methods to affirm gifts people can offer. We enhance ways for those gifts to be lived out. The garden is a starting place for many to discover their giftedness and see themselves as children of God. “Your gift means faith, hope and love to the people in the heart of our city. Your gift means people will begin a faith walk that will last a lifetime. Marge Johnson Ministry Coordinator”

Social MinistryPage 6

Volunteers at last year’s Cross Community Picnic: Diane DuBois and Kathy Weinberg-Kinsey

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$25,000 Pledge Launches Family Bike Ride Campaign Five individuals, seeking to put their faith into action, have pledged $5,000 each to this year’s Family Bike Ride – and they CHALLENGE other donors to give generously to the campaign. Their gifts, and yours, support ministries in low-income neighborhoods that helps transform lives and bring hope. It is easy to register for the 9th Annual Outreach for Hope Family Bike Ride on Saturday, Sept. 10, 2016 at St. Bruno Parish in Dousman. Sign up now and Support the bike ride at: www.ofhbikeride.com then Share the fun with others by emailing your friends a link to the web site and inviting them to participate with you. Riders of all ages are invited and encouraged to join. Brennan’s Market of Oconomowoc/Brookfield and Pavement Consulting of Delafield are teaming up to co-sponsor an Action Challenge by donating $25.00 for every registered rider or virtual registration up to $9,000! That’s an amazing amount toward our goal of $110,000! Not able to ride a bike? Join in the Support or Virtual portion of this event and make a donation to Outreach for Hope or Volunteer to assist that day at www.ofhbikeride.com. Check out the Volunteer Registration Button on the registration page to be part of the fun while assisting with setting up, serving lunch, manning the rest stops, cheering at the starting/finishing lines, clean up and more.

Summer Social Ministry Collection—Lutheran Social Services Refugee Toiletry Items Throughout the summer, consider donating a few toiletry items to support Refugees arriving in Milwaukee. Each year, Lutheran Social Services helps to settle more than 350 refugees from 5 main regions of the world in Milwaukee alone. They provide initial housing, furnishings, and household supplies as set forth by the State Department, and are always in need of new toiletry items (especially because many of these items cannot be purchased with FoodShare monies). Please prayerfully consider donating any of the following items:

• Toilet Paper (in 8-12 roll packages) • Shampoo• Liquid Soap (for kitchen) • Bar Soap • Toothbrushes • Toothpaste• Personal Hygiene Items • Hairbrushes/Combs (deodorants, razors, feminine products)

**Idea: Purchase a small wastebasket and use it as a container for your donated items.

As usual, these items can be donated in the large wooden boxes outside the office and entryway television. Thanks for your support of refugee resettlement in our community. To learn more about all it takes to help settle a refugee, visit the website of Lutheran Social Services!

Social Ministry, continued

St. Matt’s Participants in 2014

Music MinistryPage 8

When do Choirs Start? All are welcome to join in singing or ringing. Take a look at the choir schedule and join in praising our Lord.Bells Angels (adults) Thursdays starting 8/25 at 6:15Senior Choir (adults) Thursdays starting 9/1 at 7:30Righteous Ringers (grades 7-12) Tuesdays starting 9/13 at 7:00Godsbells (grades 4-6) Wednesday starting 9/14 at 6:00New Creation Choir (grades 3-6) Wednesdays starting 9/14 at 7:00The EmBELLishments (daytime bell choir) Tuesdays starting 9/20 at 9:30New Generation Choir (grades 7-12) Wednesdays starting 9/21 at 6:00Praise Kids! (grades Jr. Kindergarten - 2nd) Thursdays starting 9/29 at 4:00

Come join us to RING! You’ve seen them in action and are you thinking, “I want to try that.” We have the chance for you to give it a ring. The Tuesday morning handbell choir, The EmBELLishments, is always looking for new ringers to join the handbell fun. Have you ever wanted to give it a try? See what this handbell stuff is all about? This is your chance. This handbell choir meets every Tuesday at 9:30-10:15, starting September 20. No experience needed! We have fun as we learn new music and the techniques of handbell ringing. If you have any questions or would like a private lesson in ringing handbells to find out what it is all about, please talk with John Paradowski at the church. 414-774-0441 or JRPmuzik@sbcglobal.net

Health Benefits of Making Music! The health benefits of singing are both physical and psychological. Singing and ringing has physical benefits because it is an aerobic activity that increases oxygenation in the blood stream and exercises major muscle groups in the upper body, even while sitting.~ Your body produces “feel good” hormones called

endorphins, which rush around your body when you make music which is linked to our sense of emotional well-being.

~ When people make music together they feel increased:

• Sense of Community• Belonging and• Shared Endeavor

~ Good breathing practices:• Increases lung capacity• Improves posture• Helps to clear respiratory tubes and sinuses

and• Increases mental alertness through greater

oxygenation~ Boost Immunity by promoting healthy Lymphatic

system~ Lowers Blood pressure, well, most of the time. So, to sum it all up, improve your well-being, keep calm and Sing/Ring for Joy! John Paradowski

Senior Choir starts September 1 from 7:30 to 9:00 The Senior Choir starts rehearsing for this season on September 1 at 7:30 in the choir room. All vocal parts are welcome! The adult choir sings just about every Sunday and is a great opportunity to share your talents with the congregation. Come to also be part of the festive Christmas Pageant in December. For more information contact Dave Mohr at davemohr@me.com or 414-774-1775.

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7th & 8th Grade Confirmation beginsin October; Info Meeting is September 14 Pastor Chris Manke teaches 7th & 8th grade Confirmation, and he is enjoying his sabbatical which began July 4 and will continue through the end of September. Those families who are new to the program, 7th graders and parents, as well as any 8th graders who didn’t participate during 7th grade, are invited to the parent/student information meeting on Wednesday, September 14 from 7-8 p.m. If you did not receive information about the confirmation program but would like to, please contact the church office. The first Wednesday evening class will take place on Wednesday, October 5 from 7:00-8:30 p.m. It is a Parent Night, so a parent is asked to attend also on this evening.

9th grade Confirmation begins September 7 We will meet on Wednesday nights from 7:00-8:15 begining on September 7 and ending on November 2. In these nine sessions, we will explore through various activities and discussions what it means to live out your faith. The first session on September 7 will begin with a short meeting for parents and 9th graders from 7:00-7:20 to go over the schedule and expectations. The Confirmation Service for this class will be on Sunday, November 6 at 1:30 in the afternoon. Questions can be directed to Gretchen Haugse.

Keeping a Baptismal Promise Several times each month, babies, children and adults are baptized during our worship services. During the service of baptism, after the person is baptized, the congregation welcomes him or her and promises to pray for him or her during his/her faith development. We reprint these baptism names and dates from the previous few years as a reminder of those baptized.

Recent August Baptisms: Tessa Rosalie Will August 9, 2015 Emma Elaine Ziemer August 23, 2015 Jefferson Logan Sanders August 30, 2015 Susan Doris Zelinski August 30, 2015 Adley Elizabeth Kiedrowski August 10, 2014 Ada Margaret McCorkle August 10, 2014 Keegan Christopher Sanders August 10, 2014 Violet Mae Gifford August 24, 2014 Charlotte Rose Goeb August 4, 2013 Emma Josephine Beros August 11, 2013

Matthew Laughery August 25, 2013Jackson Anton Reuter August 12, 2012Julian Patrick Rosenberger August 12, 2012Ryan Phillip Clark August 26, 2012Claire Janae Szaniawski August 26, 2012Bryce Logan MacIntosh August 14, 2011

Mission Trip Highlights: One of the bright spots of the mission trips are the young adults who become excellent youth leaders. Shown here are (left to right) Gretchen Haugse, who led the Youth Mission Trip, her daughter Kari Stein, visitor (and previous young adult leader) Ben Laszewski, Connor Hanson and Alison Sauter.

Stephen MinistryPage 10

WHY is Stephen Ministry Coming to St. Matthew’s?Stephen Ministry is a one-to-one lay caring ministry that equips and empowers lay caregivers—called Stephen Ministers—to provide high-quality, confidential, Christ-centered care to...

People who are hospitalizedThose who are grievingThose suffering loneliness or discouragementPeople who are divorced or separatedThose who are dying - and their families and friendsUnemployed personsPeople fighting cancer or another debilitating illnessPeople providing long-term care to a loved oneThose dealing with the losses and challenges of relocatingParents whose children have left homeThose how are homebound, convalescing, or rehabilitatingNew parentsSingle parentsVictims of a disasterThose in a spiritual crisis

The list goes on and on... Everyone faces periods of crisis, transition, or difficulty. During these times, a caring relationship with someone who will faithfully listen, empathize, pray with and for them, and encourage them with Christ’s love and care can be a tremendous benefit. Churches are overwhelmed with needs for care - the needs of their own members and the needs of people in the surrounding community. The pastor provides immediate care at the onset of a crisis, but no one is able to provide ongoing follow-up care. Lay people want to help, but many lack the knowledge, skills, and confidence to care effectively. Those whose needs for care go unmet can struggle in faith and even stop participating in the congregation. Stephen Ministry helps pastors and congregations to meet the ever-growing needs for care in the congregation and community. “Truly I tell you, just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family, you did it to me.” Matthew 25:40 In the next issue of the VOICE we will explore the HOW of Stephen Ministry. For more information now go to Stephen Ministries or contact Sue Swing or Pastor Matt.

EvangelismPage 11

The Hospitality Ministry of the Church Are you a church greeter? Do you ever wonder if it really matters if you show up to greet when you are scheduled? Here are a few things you do every time you serve as a St. Matthew’s Sunday morning greeter:

• Help visitors to feel at ease • Make all people feel genuinely wanted, needed

and cared for • Remind those who haven’t been to church for a

while that they are valued and important • Provide the first smile or warm reception that a

person may have encountered all week

Yes, church greeters...You are needed and you do make a difference!

“Greeters are the personification, the representative, the exemplar, that is, the church embodied. Their very presence is the first living impression of the church body. Greeters need to realize they are more than themselves. They are the style and spirit of the church in human form. Greeters are the Ambassadors of the Door. They are the gatekeepers in the House of the Lord...” Dr. Nelson L Price We are also reminded in 2 Corinthians 5:20 that “We are Christ’s ambassadors.” The dictionary definition of ambassador is: “A diplomatic official of the highest rank, appointed and accredited as a representative.” We represent the church. We represent Jesus. We represent love. St. Matthew’s is grateful for those who are scheduled as church greeters and we extend an invitation to everyone to be a “church greeter” on Sunday morning. Even if you do not volunteer as a scheduled greeter you can still welcome a stranger, introduce yourself to someone new, shake a hand. We know God brings every person through our doors each Sunday. Let’s do our part and make them want to stay! To serve as a greeter contact Sue Swing; sueswing@sbcglobal.net.

Reflections from our SeminarianGreetings from Ohio!Matthew Petersen shares a reflection of his summer asssignment Since June I have been serving as an intern at the Exodus Recovery Program of City Gospel Mission in Cincinnati. (Learn more about the Mission at www.citygospelmission.org.) Exodus is a men’s drug and alcohol recovery program. It has been a blessing to walk alongside of the participants as they journey through recovery. Much of my time has been spent just building relationships with the men and hearing their stories. Often this takes place when I escort one of the men to an appointment or to a store as a driver and to keep them accountable. I have also led devotions and Bible studies, participated in some of their groups, and assisted with the intake process. Please keep me and the men I am walking with in your prayers. Outside of my internship I have also connected with other ministries in the area. Some Monday evenings I have dinner with the residents of the men’s shelter at the Catholic Worker house. Before the summer is out I also hope to go out with a group that does street outreach. Although it has been a rich summer, I look forward to the fall and completing my academic work at LSTC. I hope all is well at St. Matthew’s during this season of VBS, summer camp, softball leagues, Brewer games, and festivals. Thank you for your prayers and support. Peace in Christ, Matthew

Seminary student Matthew Petersen, son of St. Matthew’s members Mark & Rebecca Petersen.

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CHICAGO – Members of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) will gather Aug. 8-13 in assembly at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center in New Orleans. Meeting under the theme “Freed and Renewed in Christ: 500 Years of God’s Grace in Action,” the assembly’s business will include preparations for observing the 500th anniversary of the Reformation in 2017. The assembly – the highest legislative body of the ELCA – will be comprised of 980 voting members serving on behalf of the 3.7 million members of the ELCA. The ELCA’s 65 synods elect voting members to serve at churchwide assemblies. “Churchwide assemblies are a combination of legislative sessions, worship, Bible study, theological reflection and fellowship,” said the Rev. Elizabeth A. Eaton, ELCA presiding bishop. “We deliberate and discuss and vote. Some would say that it is a messy way to do the work of the church, but [it] is a wonderfully open process.” As part of planning for the Reformation observance, non-voting members are invited to attend the Grace Gathering, Aug. 10-13. Participants will experience the assembly proceedings and also prepare for 500th anniversary observances within their congregations and synods. “God’s Grace in Action Afternoon” will offer experiential learning on several topics to inspire participants to take action back home, including: Music, Justice and Peace; From the Doctrine of Discovery to #BlackLivesMatter; Human Trafficking; Care of Creation; and Food Security. “Often members of congregations are not aware of the scope of the wider church,” said Eaton. “The Grace Gathering will give even more of our people the opportunity to see the whole church at work. We can do a lot more together than we can do separately. And, close to 2,000 Lutherans singing is a heavenly sound.” Key action items at the assembly include: • Electing an ELCA vice president. Carlos Peña, the

current vice president, has decided not to seek a third term. Peña has served for 13 years.

• Considering the Word and Service task force recommendations that the three rosters of church lay leadership be unified into a single body known as deacons.

• Voting on the recommendations for the ELCA Strategy to Accompany Migrant Minors with Protection, Advocacy, Representation and Opportunities (AMMPARO).

• Considering the “Declaration on the Way,” a document that draws on 50 years of Lutheran-Catholic dialogue in preparation for the Reformation anniversary.

Voting members will also receive: • An update on the ELCA’s first major fundraising

campaign, Always Being Made New: The Campaign for the ELCA. Approved by the 2013 ELCA Churchwide Assembly, the campaign seeks to raise $198 million to help extend the ministries of this church.

• A report from the presiding bishop and officers of the ELCA.

• Reports on ELCA churchwide ministries, including ELCA World Hunger and Lutheran Disaster Response.

• Proposals (known as memorials) from the ELCA’s 65 synods, which include: repudiation of the Doctrine of Discovery; deepening of relationships with historic black churches; a responsible energy future; supporting military personnel, veterans and their families; and peace with justice in the Holy Land.

• Budget proposals for 2017 to 2019. • Greetings from ecumenical guests, global partners

and others. Along with voting members, hundreds more will participate in the assembly as ELCA congregational observers, special ecumenical guests and global leaders, presidents of the eight ELCA seminaries and 26 college and universities, advisory and resource members, staff and others. ELCA members and others not attending the assembly can access live video of plenary sessions at ELCA.org/ChurchwideAssembly.

Pastor Matthew Schlake-Kruse of our congregation is attending the event and we’ll get a report from him about the experience when he returns.

Churchwide Assembly in New Orleans, August 8-13

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SUMMER FUN!

The St. Matthew’s Men’s Softball team finished another season of fastballs, fielding and fellowship at the end of July. While the team was dynamite all season, they couldn’t get the fuse to light quite right until the final game where they came out victorious 25-3. A big improvement in the win-loss record this year, however, as they won 100% more games than the year prior. 2-12 doesn’t seem like a big accomplishment, but for this team of Lovable Lutherans...every win counts! Thanks to Andy Cherney for the season wrap-up.

St. Matthew’s Brewer Game outing on July 9 was a great day, especially if you were a Cardinals’ fan. Pastor Matthew Schlake-Kruse and Michael Kruse are Cardinals’ fans, and unfortunately, the Brewers couldn’t beat the Kruses’ team on this day, by the score of 1-8. Thanks to Dave Castillo for his efforts to coordinate the tickets and run the tailgate. It was a lot of fun!

A bet lost for a brothers’ Pizza Lunch:Elliot and Colin Oquist wagered a pizza lunch against Michael and Pastor Matt Kruse over the NBA championship game winner. The younger pair of brothers chose the winning team, and so the Kruse Brothers paid out their promise on a recent summer day.

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Our Church Family Recently hospitalized: Jack Albee at Froedtert. Lisa Chiesa is recovering from outpatient hand surgery. Our condolences to Gregg Collins whose father recently died. Our sympathy is with Kate Searing and Suzy York whose mother, Elaine Labs, passed away after battling brain cancer. Congratulations to the Matt & Natalie Kamenick on the birth of Noah; he joins big brother Graham, age 1 year. Pr. John Keller recently celebrated his 69th ordination anniversary in June. Irma Brandt died July 11, 2016 at the age of 99 years. She is survived by her beloved son, Neal. Irma was well-known and well-loved at St. Matthew’s and at Harwood Place, where she lived. She was a teacher at MATC during her working years. She had relationships with many of her nieces and nephews throughout the country and her outgoing and engaging nature earned her many friends. She was predeceased by her husband Eugene and her son, Paul. Pastor Matt led a well-attended funeral service at Harwood Place on July 21, and traveled to Cassville in southwestern Wisconsin for the graveside service on Friday, July 22.

Congratulations, Delaney and Matt! You are invited to join in celebrating the marriage of Pastors Matthew & Delaney Schlake-Kruse at a cake and card reception on Sunday, August 21 at 9:30 a.m. in the Upper Commons. Come and congratulate the happy couple and welcome Delaney to Wauwatosa! Bring a card if you wish. The wedding was held on Friday, June 24, in St. Louis, Missouri. Cards can be dropped off in the church office, if you would like us to present your card at this reception on August 21.

Bulletin BoardMorning Prayer Time on the Porch Monday Morning Prayer location has been changed for summer. We are meeting at 7205 Aetna Court at 6:15 - 7:00 a.m. to pray on the porch. Join us!

What would you like to know? On the suggestion of one of our readers, we offer this opportunity for you to ask a question that you’d like to have addressed in regard to St. Matthew’s ministries or related areas of interest. Send your question to <sonjamohr@me.com> or leave a voicemail for Sonja at 414-774-0441, ext. 24. We’ll do our best to get an answer for you!

A note from Pastor Ann “I walked into the office on my first day at St. Matthew’s and was greeted by these gift baskets (including two made especially for my kids)! (Gifts pictured below) It was a humbling and lovely surprise. The thoughtfulness, warmth and patience I’ve received from the staff along with the greetings and well-wishes from the rest of the congregation make me thankful beyond words. God is so good. Please continue to introduce yourselves to me. I am eager to learn your stories and to see what God has in store for me-- and for us in this place. With Much Gratitude, Pastor Ann”

PERIODICALS RATEMail Carrier: Please deliver by August 13, 2016.

The Voice of St. Matthew’sWe are called to welcome, nurture, equip and send

Next issue of the VOICE is dated September 4, 2016.

Wauwatosa, Wisconsinwww.stmattslutheran.org

Upcoming Dates into SeptemberSunday, August 14 9:30, Summer Choir 5:00, Serenity Inn & Guest House 6:00, Salad Supper & Social Issues

Monday, August 15 7:00 p.m., Church council mtg. at Cimermancic home

Friday, August 19 5 p.m, Wedding, Jordan Yentz & John Leen

Saturday, August 20 Wedding of Emma Sholl and Spence Dabbs, off-site

Sunday, August 21 9:30, Cake & Card Reception for Prs. Matt & Delaney Schlake-Kruse 11:15, Healing Service 6:00, Salad Supper & Social Issues

Monday, August 22 5:30, Women’s Ministry Dinner Mtg.Wed., August 24 7:00, Sun. School Teachers MeetingThursday, Sept. 1 7:30, Senior Choir Rehearsals beginSunday, Sept. 11 Rally Day - Sunday School begins

9:45-10:45 a.m.

Wednesday, Sept. 14 7:00-8:00 p.m. Information Meeting for 7th & 8th gr. Confirmation - for those new to the program

A Holy Challenge

Thanks to Heather Deaton for her efforts behind the scenes to keep the altar area clean and neat. Cleaning away spilled wax is one of the challenges.

Instruction Page for:

St. Matthew’s Ev. Lutheran Church#9805151615 Wauwatosa AveWauwatosa, WI 53213414-774-0441Sonja Mohr

Issue Date : August 14, 2016Volume 85Issue # 10

# of Pages: 16

Special Instructions:

Quantity Needed = 950

To Be Shipped to:

c/o United Mailing Services Inc.3655 N. 126th Street, Ste. CBrookfield, WI 53005

By August 5, 2016