sept 2012

In This Issue

Message from Pastor Jake 2

Missions 3

On Fire! 4-5

Information & Announcements 6

Membership Updates 6

Adult Classes 7

Finances 8-9

God Stories 10-11

L-Teams 11

Women’s Ministries 11

In 1971 my parents had their first child

and named him Jeffrey Michael Davis. He brought great joy to my parents as a good little boy. Jeff was impressive at many things as a baby. He was good. He

was quiet. He was obedient! Two years later my parents had

a second child and named him Christopher Mark Davis. As both boys grew up, Christopher had a very different personality. He was loud. He was VERY energetic. He was more focused on his desires then on following his parents. His mom and dad dealt with many challenges even bought books to help them correct Chris’ behavior issues. Now my recollection of these years had visions of my parent’s faces turning red and their ears blowing steam. Being my parent had its challenges.

Kids are a huge part of a parents’ life. Here at St. Luke’s we strive to walk along side moms and dads as they invest in their children. So much of what we do is

designed to help children grow in their relationship with Jesus Christ. But several recent studies have shown the power that parents have over the spiritual lives of their children. One study revealed that a parent who shares with his or her child a conversation from their heart about “what Jesus means to me” has more impact on whether or not that young person continues in the Christian faith than if the parent were to send that child to church every week for a year! In Deuteronomy 6:6 – 9 God says: “These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates.” God calls us to teach our children about Him by reading Scriptures, talking about what they say and placing Him visually in our lives. This happens when we allow God to speak to and move our hearts.

God calls parents and churches together to teach children how to walk with Him. Parents are dealing with daily life and churches are providing help and friendships that make a powerful difference in a child’s life. You should have received the red envelopes that describe what St. Luke’s is doing for parents and kids. Each age group gets a description of their studies for the year. Spark is for kids from birth through five years. Flame is for kids from grade 1 through grade 6. Ignite is for kids in 7th grade until they graduate from high school. We are excited to see kids grow as parents and church work together.

I’m thankful for my parents and a church that invested in me and taught me about Jesus Christ. Now that I have Eli and Rose I experience much of what my parents experienced with me. Joy. Love. Patience. Forgiveness. Trust. May God use and bless those who have been gifted and called to be a parent.

Pastor ChrisRomans 8:28

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A NOTE FROM PASTOR JAKEThe countdown to the first day of school has begun! Ok, your child has probably already started counting down the days until they have to get up before the sun and sit in a classroom all day. Where has the summer gone? I remember watching the days of summer vacation pass by as I dreaded that first day of school. I wanted to soak up every last minute of my summer before heading back to school.

I would guess that your child is wanting to the same—and what better way to enjoy the rest of their summer than to come to our Wednesday night youth group! We will continue to meet during the summer from 7-8:30pm in Malkow Hall. So, when your child has to face the inevitable reality of classrooms and early mornings, have no fear! We will be meeting every Wednesday night throughout the school year and we will be providing an age-focused approach to Wednesday nights. The biggest change for the new year of Wednesday nights will be a separation of middle school age youth and high school age youth. We are also going to extend the time from 6-9pm. 7th and 8th graders will meet from 6-7:30pm and 9th-12th graders will meet from 7:30-9pm. If you have youth in both of those categories, we will certainly provide a place for them to hang out, do homework, or play games while the other age group meets. Starting in September, we would also like to try out providing an after-school hangout on Wednesdays. Immediately after school, your youth will be welcome to be in Malkow Hall to play basketball, games, or do homework. Well, we hope they do homework!

Speaking of school, it’s almost time for a new Sunday school year! It is crucial in the spiritual life of your child to continue their study of Scripture in addition to other studies. Opening Day will kick off our Ignite classes that begin at 11:00am in Malkow Hall. All Ignite age youth will worship together at 9:30am. We can’t wait to see you in the front row! Look out for exciting opportunities for your youth to serve in worship!

I’m excited to announce that we are using a NEW curriculum for our Sunday School material. It is our desire to partner with parents throughout the year to increase the effectiveness of your child’s spiritual growth. This partnership will take place through weekly communication about lesson themes and practical “parental cues” that can be implemented throughout the week. Combining the church and the home will greatly impact and influence your youth. This combined approach is called the Orange strategy. Orange is created when the love of the family (red) and the light of the church (yellow) combine. During the

school year, Sunday’s lesson will be linked to Wednesday’s lesson in the hope of creating a unified front in youth and family ministry.

Additional growth opportunities will be available for high school youth. 9th graders will journey through confirmation. Be on the lookout for information regarding this exciting year of personal faith. 10th-12th graders will have the opportunity to join our girls and boys ministries. Our girls ministry, Charis, will be taking off in the Fall. We are blessed with phenomenal female leadership that will lead this ministry. Be on the lookout for both girls and boys ministry opportunities this Fall.

It’s another exciting year for St. Luke’s youth and family ministry! My prayer is that we are able to create a stronger partnership between families, leaders, and other parents all for the benefit of the youth. May God bless you and keep you safe in these last couple weeks of summer!

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MISSIONS

How does God use missions? The weekend services August 25 and 26 will focus on this big question AND you’ll get to hear what mission teams this summer experienced while answering God’s call to serve!

SAVE THE DATE! On October 13 the Swaziland mission team will be holding a fundraiser event not to be missed! The fundraiser will benefit their mission trip to Swaziland March 2013. It will also benefit H2theO. Be on the look out for more details coming soon! If you are interested in helping out with the fundraiser, contact Nate Breyer at: natebreyer@gmail.com.

“10 For The World”“10 For The World” is probably something you’ve heard a little bit about over the last couple of years. But for those who may not know what it means, it is the distribution of funds from what is our congregational tithe. St. Luke’s tithes out 10% of its offerings to support other organizations, missionaries, faith building and humanitarian groups. Pastor Chris works with an advisory team to help determine where and how much should be given to certain groups. We know and believe that each of you have a unique calling from God that determines where and how you serve those around you. We want to support the agencies and organizations that YOU work with and support. Please send me an email (kbreyer@stlukes-church.com) or drop me a note telling me what you’re involved in and the needs that particular group may have. Our hope is that we as a community might further pursue partnerships with organizations and individuals that you already support.

H2theOSummer H2theO wrap up: THANK YOU to everyone who participated in this summer’s coin drive for water wells in Swaziland. A special shout out to the VBS kids, parents, and leaders who brought in $2,140.81 in just 4 days! As of August 1st the total funds raised has reached $8,877.31 and we have more change still coming in! God is good! Thank you for giving so generously to bring clean water to the people of Swaziland. H2theO will make a return during Lent 2013, so start saving your spare change now.

2012 Mirror Lake Back to School BashSt. Luke’s is supporting the community by helping families at Mirror Lake Elementary School with backpacks, school supplies and haircuts. 207 children were helped last year!!

Back to school supplies are now on sale at almost every store. Please consider picking up some of the following supplies to donate, while you are shopping:

• (2) pocket folders• glue sticks• plain #2 pencils• pink block erasers• wide ruled spiral notebooks

You can place your donations in the tub at the Welcome Center. If you prefer, you can write a check with the notation “Mirror Lake Bash” on the memo line, or donate a Walmart gift card.

In addition to collecting supplies, we are in need of volunteers to stuff the backpacks on Tuesday, August 21 at 1 pm and/or assist with the event on Saturday, August 25 - 11 am - 1 pm. We especially need face painters and people who know how to cut children’s hair. Contact Sylvia Courtney at 253-288-0022 for more information.

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ON FIRE!

FLAME - (grades 1 - 6)

Children’s ChoirAll children in grades 1-6 are welcome to become a part of our St. Luke’s Children’s Choir. They rehearse every Thursday from 6-7pm in room # 101 on our lower level of the main building. Choir begins Thursday, September 20. This choir sings regularly for worship, special programs and holiday services at Christmas, Palm Sunday and Good Friday. They also present a Christian musical/drama in the spring.

Kids For Christ – KFC456After a short summer break, we begin our monthly midweek events for 4th, 5th and 6th graders. We have a super fun year planned. The calendar will be available online by the end of September. Hard copies will be given out at our first event on Wednesday, September 19, at 6:30pm in Malkow Hall. Kids and parents are invited for dinner. There will be a short parent meeting that night so we can make a meal donation schedule and a KFC night volunteer schedule. Kids are always welcome and encouraged to invite friends to our KFC456 events!

In October we will meet on Wednesday, Oct. 17 at 6:30pm in Malkow Hall. Our meeting in November will be in Malkow Hall on Wednesday, Nov. 14 at 6:30pm.

Bibles for Second-GradersAll second graders and their families are invited to a brunch in Malkow Hall on Sunday, October 7 at 9am. Parents will then join their second graders in their classroom for Sunday School while sibling go to their classes. At the 11am worship service that day, second graders and their parents will come forward to be presented with Bibles. On Wednesday, Oct. 17, the families are invited for back for pizza and a question and answer time with the pastor at 6:30pm in Malkow Hall.

Sixth-Grade Family BrunchAll sixth-graders and their parents are invited to the sixth -rade Sunday School room #215 in upper Malkow Hall at 9am on September 23 for brunch. We will start our year long emphasis on spiritual gifts which involves keeping a journal, discovering our spiritual gifts and serving in various ways to use the gifts God has blessed us with.

SPARK - (age 0 - kindergarten)

Sunday School Opening DaySunday, September 9 (9:30am)

Celebrate a new phase of life for your 3 year old – Sunday School! At the beginning of the 9:30 service, there will be a special sending/prayer time for 3’s and their parents allowing us to celebrate this milestone as a community – our church family. Contact Jan Grothe for more info: jgrothe@stlukes-church.com.

Presentation of Toddler BiblesSunday, September 23 (11:00am)

Two year olds are able to sit for a few minutes and listen to short, short stories. We have a special toddler Bible just for 2’s! Presentation and story time for 2’s and their parents will be at the 11:00 service on September 25. Contact Jan Grothe for more info: jgrothe@stlukes-church.com.

Meet the BabiesSaturday, October 20 (10-11:00am)

Who are the parents of babies at St. Luke’s? This is a time to meet other parents and talk about the life change of having a baby in the house, sharing experiences, joys, frustrations, and help for others. Contact Carrie Andrew for more info: carrieandrew148@gmail.com.

Backstage TourSaturday, October 20 (3-4:30pm)

A special event for kindergarten kids and their parents to see what happens behind the scenes in worship. Tour backstage with Pastor Chris. Interact with Larry and the band. Learn the whys behind what we do each week. Contact Jan Grothe for info: jgrothe@stlukes-church.com.

Helping HandsSaturday, November 10 (10-11:30am)

Fours like to help! This event is created for those young ones who are so eager to be helpful. They will participate in helping to put together Thanksgiving baskets for Mirror Lake School families. In addition, they will decorate and fill bags for the homeless for “Hope to Others” – a local mission. Contact Jan Grothe for info: jgrothe@stlukes-church.com.

FAMILIES ON FIRE!We are currently registering children age 3-5 and grades 1-6 FOR THE 2012-2013 Sunday School year. Classes begin September 9 at 9:30am. You may register online or at the St. Luke’s Welcome Center.

Information on location of classrooms, age level and curriculum has been mailed to you or is available in the Welcome Center area. Sunday School is an important part of a child’s life as they grow in their faith and connect with other children and adults in their church.

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FLAME - (grades 1 - 6)

Christmas Programs by Sunday School ChildrenThe children in our 3, 4 and 5-year-old Sunday School classes will present their Christmas program in Great Room A and B on Sunday, Dec. 9 at 9:45am. They will begin practicing during Sunday School class in early October.

Grades 1-6 will present their Christmas program on Sunday, Dec. 16 in the worship center as part of the 11am worship service. There will be one dress rehearsal on Saturday, Dec. 15 in the worship center from 1-2:30pm for all Sunday School children in grades 1-6 and their teachers.

Fourth-Grade Mystery Dinner and Secret MissionsAll fourth graders and their parents are invited to a “Mystery Dinner” on Sunday, Nov. 11 in Great Room A at 5pm. This year our fourth graders are discovering more about their identity in Christ as they complete a number of secret missions and log them in their passports. At the dinner they will be given their first mission and have pictures taken for their passports.

IGNITE - (grades 7 - 12)Light it up! (Wednesday Night Youth Group)Every Wednesday nightMiddle School = 6:00-7:30pm in Malkow HallHigh School = 7:30pm-9:00pm in Malkow Hall

All Middle School and High School youth are welcome to come at their times. Every Wednesday will consist of a devotion and games. Activities will vary from week to week but FUN will be consistent! Invite your friends and light it up!

Open Gym/Youth RoomEvery Wednesday, End of School until Light it up! begins (so, from like 2:30-6:00).

All Ignite age youth are allowed to come by after school on Wednesday’s to do homework, study, or play games. We provide and safe and encouraging environment for students to work or play until youth group begins.

Opening DaySept. 9, 11:00 amConfirmation = Room 311Middle School and High School = Malkow Hall

All Ignite age youth have a Sunday School for them! Confirmation is designed for all 9th Graders and those who have not yet taken yet. All other classes are separated between Middle School and High School age youth. Meet in Malkow Hall on Sept. 9 at 11:00am and you will be taken to your room.

Charis Try Out NightOct 1, 6:30pm Room 311

Charis is our High School age girls’ ministry. Come find outwhat all the excitement is about! Try out is a night where parents come and ask questions about Charis while the girls get an introduction to this sisterhood.

Confirmation Fall RetreatOct. 5-7

All Confirmation students are required to be on this retreat.The focus of this retreat will be Baptism and the Lord’s Supper. Cost includes housing, food, and most supplies. Fun is free of charge. The retreat will take place at Camp Berachah for the weekend. We will leave as a group on Friday, Oct. 5 at 6:00pm from St. Luke’s and will return before the 11:00am service on Sunday. The group will worshiptogether at the 11:00am service before being picked up.

Charis Initiation NightOct. 12-13, overnighter at St. Luke’s

Those who have chosen to be a part of this premier sisterhood will be initiated during this meaningful overnighter. Those wishing to be a part of initiation night must come to try out night and RSVP for the event. RSVP deadline for initiation is Oct. 7 (how to RSVP that will be included in the info packets and talked about at try out).

True Love Retreat Mandatory Parent MeetingOct. 12All parents who want their youth to attend the True Love Retreat must attend this meeting to overview the material that will be discussed over the retreat.

True Love RetreatOct. 19-21

The True Love Retreat is an intense weekend of heavy topics involving “love.” Youth will learn what God has to say about love and what it looks like in dating as well as in all of our relationships. A mandatory meeting for all parents who want their youth to attend the True Love Retreat will take place the Friday before the retreat (Oct 12) to discuss the material.

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MEMBERSHIP UPDATES

INFORMATION & ANNOUNCEMENTS

BaptismsCody Morrison 07-01-2012Dale Newman 07-15-2012Khioni Valnes 07-28-2012

Confirmation - June 3, 2012

Martin Anderson Joseph LuomaTyler Bell Samuel MalthesenHunter Chase Addison MatthewsSarah Clow Miguel MorrisZane DeCillia Hailey MummertJillian Gamache Tessa PariseauPaige Hallstrom Madison PutnamJorgie Kinerk Madison RuppelElise Kleine Seth WalkerKayla Larson Jacob Ward

Weddings:Jared & Rachel (Foster) Higgins 06-16-2012

New Members:Jerome & Shailyn Drazkowsk Michele Hernandez Dayton & Amara Willow

Lori Hartman Adam & Missy Scholze Tim & Sarah Liam

Transfers: Gary & Gloria Ford Zion Lutheran Chruch, Auburn, WA

Tim & Shawna (Atalya) Ford St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Tracy, CA

Releases:Gary & Julie Simpson Jazmin and Patrick

June - July 2012Please update the church office at 253.941.3000 or jbritt@stlukes-church.com with new addresses, phone numbers, or e-mail addresses.

Preschool and Kindergarten BeginOur St. Luke’s Preschool and Kindergarten classes begin Sept. 5 with open house in each class. There are still some openings in some of the classes. Contact Heather in our office at 253.893.0173 for information. If you would like to volunteer in any of our classes please contact Mitzie at mollila@stlukes-church.com.

St. Luke’s Childcare CenterWe are blessed with a wonderful facility and staff! Our center is open Monday through Friday from 6am-6pm. We offer both fulltime and part-time care for children who are 2½ potty trained and up. We have a before and after school program and a preschool age program. Check out our website at www.stlukes-preschool.com.

St Luke’s BookstoreBe sure to come by our bookstore. We are open after all services on weekends and on Wednesdays from 11 am-1 pm. We have many new books, devotionals, and Bibles for children as well as for adults. We also carry Christian cards at very affordable prices. In addition, we offer free check-out of DVDs for children and adults.

St Luke’s LibraryJust off the elevator on our upper floor, is our library. We have a self check-out system. We offer a variety of Christian books for free check-out. We have a large section of Christian fiction as well as many other categories for children, youth, and adults. You are welcome to check out books at any time.

Sunday School Volunteers & Donations NeededWe are in need of volunteers in our Sunday School ministry. A volunteer form listing the various needs can be found online or at the Welcome Center. We are in need of teachers, helpers, substitutes and volunteers to help with short term projects, and donations of snacks and materials. We prefer two or three teachers for each grade level to make it flexible when a teacher needs to be gone. Contact Mitzie at 253.941.3000 or mollila@stlukes-church.com with questions or offers to help.

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INTERESTED IN JOINING ST LUKE’S?

THANK YOUS

ADULT CLASSES & EVENTS

Membership ClassThe membership workshop and Next Steps events are designed to learn about the vision and purpose of St. Luke’s, as well as our ministries and L-Teams. We cover topics in the Christian faith, including Baptism and the Lord’s Supper. The next workshop is: Friday, Sept 28 and Saturday, Sept 29. One-on-one time is Sunday, Oct 14, at 9:30. We receive new members into membership on Oct 21 at 11:00am with a brunch at 9:30am.

Our 2012 confirmation class was treated to brunch and class pictures on June 2. The delicious food was prepared for the families, sponsors, and friends, by Sandy Taylor and her faithful sidekick, Troy. Set-up, serving and clean-up was orchestrated by Kendra Breyer, Aurea Grothe, Stephanie Stahlnecker and Donna Wilker. Lind Simonsen photographed the beautiful confirmation pictures. Thanks to each of you...many were touched by your kindness.

GriefShareThe worst possible thing has happened and now your life will never be the same. How can you survive this grieving as you try to live without that person in your life? You feel like no one could possibly understand. You say – “How come people seem to avoid talking with me?” “When will my sadness go away?” “How come I can’t think clearly?” “Why can’t I stop crying?” “Who can I turn to that understands what I am going through?”

St. Luke’s has chosen a Christ-centered, Biblically-based grief recovery program called GriefShare. GriefShare is a weekly video seminar featuring some of the nation’s foremost experts on grief recovery topics. Each seminar is combined with a grief support group discussion, time to allow group participants to view the content of the seminar, and if they choose, to share about how they are dealing with the death of their loved one.

Rick and Jean Ford have walked this journey and will continue to do so. When the Lord nudged their hearts to facilitate this group, they knew their sorrow and pain were going to be used to help others.

GriefShare begins on Sunday, September 9, 12:30-2:30pm, in Great Room-C at St. Luke’s. Call St. Luke’s at 253.941.3000)or email Jean, StLukesGriefGroup@gmail.com to register.

Surviving the HolidaysIn past years, the Christmas holiday season may have been a time of great anticipation and excitement … but this year, the prospect of facing the holidays without your loved one may cause anxiety and dread. You are not alone.

“Surviving the Holidays” is a GriefShare seminar, which has compiled practical ideas for surviving the deep sorrow and pain you may experience, words of encouragement to help you during the holiday season, and decreasing your stress in the process. “Surviving the Holidays” will be offered at St. Luke’s on Saturday, November 3, 9:30 – 11:30am in Great Room-C. There is a $10.00 registration fee for materials and lunch. Contact Rick and Jean Ford for more information: 253.839.8583 or StLukesGriefGroup@gmail.com.

DivorceCareDivorceCare is a recovery class taught through a series of 13 DVDs by professionals in their respective fields. After watching each DVD we have time to review what we learned from the DVD and from our individual self paced workbooks. Cost of this class is $15.00.

DivorceCare is for those who are recently separated or already divorced. Class starts September 20 from 6:00 – 7:30pm. This timeframe takes us through Thanksgiving and Christmas and will help us to learn new ways to cope during the holidays. For more information, please visit their website at: www.divorcecare.org. Get ready to start (or accelerate) your healing process.

Donna: donna.wilker@comcast.net Janet: jbritt@stlukes-church.com

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ANNUAL VISION MEETING RECAP2012 Vision Meeting - 06/24/2012Ky HopewellExecutive Leadership Team (ELT) President

I would like to start with a passage from Psalm 24 – the reason to become clearer later on in the article. “The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it.”

Each June, we gather together as a congregation for the Annual Vision Meeting to which we celebrate God’s ministry at St. Luke’s, to approve the new members of the Executive Leadership Team (ELT), and to approve the upcoming fiscal year’s “mission plan” (aka – the budget). It was most certainly evident that God continues to call us forward in mission and ministry as we seek to reflect God’s love to the people in greater Federal Way community. The kaleidoscope of L-Teams and various ministries throughout St Luke’s have their unique challenges and the God given talents to meet those challenges. This was such a positive experience, and I am grateful for all of those who attended and participated in this conversation.

There are three key highlights to which I would like to provide you with an overview. First, the following changes have occurred with the Executive Leadership Team (ELT). Kevin Shanley has completed his time on the ELT as a Member-at-Large. Thank you so much, Kevin, for your outstanding service to the ELT and the congregation. Coming onto the ELT to replace Kevin’s position is Rick Roppel. We are very much looking forward to Rick joining the leadership team.

Second, Pastor Chris provided an update on the St. Luke’s Deacon Program. Pastor Chris introduced our newest Deacons, Ann Murphy (lay member) and Jan Grothe (staff). Thank you so much Ann and Jan for all your hard work and study, and we welcome you into this very important role within the Church. Additionally Pastor Chis shared with the group that two additional lay members have recently begun their training and study to become Deacons at St Luke’s – Howard Britt and Randy Sloper. Our prayers are with you both as you study and discern His calling in your future ministry as Deacons.

The third item that I would like to review with you today is our financial support for the work that God is calling us to do in reaching out to the lost, the hungry, and the hurt, and help bring them into a personal relationship with their Savior and Lord, Jesus Christ. First of all, thank you so much for your outstanding love, care and generosity in this last fiscal year. So much has occurred this year, and many miracles have been witnessed. We understand that financial stewardship may be a sensitive and very personal topic, and we most certainly appreciate your openness to how God is personally leading you and your family in terms to your financial gifts.

Together as a leadership team, the ELT, Pastors, and Program Staff have all worked together to finalize a Mission Plan for new fiscal year 2013 (July 2012 – June 2012) for the congregation to approve. We have changed our language in

terms to how we refer to the church’s operational budget. As opposed to calling this a “budget,” we are calling this a “Mission Plan”, thus reminding us where our financial resources come from – God!

We all felt in our hearts that the Lord is calling us all to do more in reaching out to others and to expand our outreach to the lost and hurt. As such we have a Mission Plan that is focused on outreach and growing our outreach capabilities as we move forward. Looking at the expected revenues and expenses to support the Mission Plan, we were also aware that we have a gap between these two figures. When the congregation authorized the construction of the new Childcare Center and Great Room two years ago, we knew we would have a gap and planned to draw upon our available cash reserves to make up the difference over the next 5 years. However, two things have occurred to which we could not have predicted - attendance is continuing to rise and our ministries have been increasing over the last number of years, but our financial giving for the General Fund has remained relatively flat.

With this as background, the ELT brought forward a Mission Plan with three income projection options for the meeting members to consider. Note that the expenses are the same amongst all three income projections. 1) Offerings remaining at the same level (0% increase versus current trends); 2) increasing offerings by 5%; or 3) increasing offerings by 10%. The meeting attendees approved the formal motion to utilize the third option and stretch goal of a 10% increase this year in offerings to the General Fund. This option does help close the gap between our revenue and our expenses, but we still have a ways to go. Whenever the leadership team has made requests to congregation, you have faithfully and prayerfully supported such requests, and we forever grateful for your trust. Copies of the 2013 Mission Plan are available through Operations Office. Please contact Todd Zern at tzern@stlukes-church.com.

As such, we have a request for the entire congregation. Today we have 722 active families in this congregation. As one of our ELT members and Pastor Chris noted, if each family that currently gives on a regular basis could increase their giving by 10%, we would be able to close the gap between our income and expenses in our approved Mission Plan. If you have been giving to 4 Those 2 Come campaign, please prayerfully consider transferring that contribution towards the General Fund. And if families that have not previously shared in the joy of regular giving, consider starting a weekly gift of $15 in which to help close the operating gap in the Mission Plan.

As I opened this update with Psalm 24, “the earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it,” what we are requesting today is that we all prayerfully ask how the Lord desires each of us to use the gifts He has given us in reaching out to the lost, the hungry and the hurting within our congregation, as well as the greater community, helping each person on their journey into a personal relationship with their Savior and Lord.

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FINANCIAL UPDATEGiving: July 2011 - May 2012Below is a brief review of gifts and offerings thus far in fiscal year 2012. Even though we are challenged by a decrease in giving, we have made the necessary expense adjustments to maintain a healthy cash flow. However, we strongly encourage each member to prayerfully consider how God is leading you in your financial partnership.

St Luke’s Online Offering Prayerfully consider partnering with St. Luke’s by setting up an online giving account. Through our website, you can create a personal giving account, and set up a one-time or reoccurring payment with your bank checking account (ACH) or credit card (VISA, MasterCard, AMEX or Discover). Having an online account will allow you to view your giving history (electronic gifts only) and make any necessary changes at any time, whether you need to change your account information or where your funds are designated. Click on “Donate Online” on the homepage of our website to start your online offerings today!

Operating Budget Revenue and ExpensesTotal income (church, preschool & kindergarten, childcare, rental groups, and interest/investment) as of May 31st of $2,030,781 falls above net operating expenses of $1,934,977 by $95,804 (128% over budget: budget = –$42,064). General Fund offerings of $1,038,696 are under budget by $35,270 (–3%). After mortgage principle payments and capital improvements, the budget loss positively exceeds YTD budget by $68,952. This net loss was officially budgeted for this fiscal year in anticipation of our new mortgage payment for the new building. However, because of 2 staffing vacant positions (Director of Missions and Lead Pastor) and the closing of our new mortgage loan occurring in March as opposed to the original plan in October, our net loss is ahead of budget by 32% (YTD actual of –$31,743 versus YTD budget of –$89,695).

General Fund CashGeneral Fund Cash (aka – “Cash Surplus”) at the end of this reporting period is $898,750. $500,000 has been dedicated by the ELT to the new building (as approved by the congregation in April 2010), and the remaining $398,750 is dedicated towards the church’s safety reserves, which will be dedicated towards the operating budget shortfalls over the new few years due to the new mortgage payment.

Capital Improvement FundThe Restricted Capital Improvement Fund (aka – the “Building Fund”) is $42,562. As of the writing of this newsletter (early August 2012), $30,000-$35,000 is currently being set aside for a new roof over the third floor classrooms, which we anticipate this work to be done by Summer 2012.

Building FundThis is a reminder that we have officially renamed the “building fund” to 4 Those 2 Come. All donations allocated towards 4 Those 2 Come will assist the Executive Leadership Team (ELT) in funding regular mortgage principle payments, capital improvement projects, and large furniture and equipment purchases. Prayerfully consider supporting helping us care for the facility and property that God has given us. If you have any questions, please contact Todd Zern in the church office.

FY 2012 vs FY 2011 (July - May)FY 2011 General Offerings YTD $ 1,058,376 FY 2011 General Offerings Average / Week $ 25, 814FY 2012 General Offerings YTD $ 1,038,696FY 2012 General Offerings Average / Week $ 25,334FY 2011 Average Offering / Active Family YTD $ 1,466FY 2012 Average Offering / Active Family YTD $ 1,439FY 2012 vs FY 2011 -1.86%

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GOD STORIES

Going Outside My BoxJan Grothe

I’m reading through the book of Deuteronomy. Yes, Deuteronomy!

In staff meeting, Pastor Chris asked which book of the Bible we wanted to study next as a staff. His challenge for us was to choose something with which we are less familiar and study it.

Shortly after this discussion, I had finished reading the book of Acts in my personal devotions and was praying about which book to read next. I thought about what Pastor Chris had said and looked on my chart to see which books in the Bible I’ve read in my morning devotions. I was surprised to discover I had neglected Leviticus, Numbers and Deuteronomy.

Far From Being SidelinedGaylen Floy

When Jan Grothe asked me to write a testimony piece articulating my passion for people dealing with vision loss, I almost choked. Any given group of people given a certain amount of time can push me over the brink.

My life’s aim seems to be finding and presenting useful information to people in need. I worked for newspapers and ad agencies for 27 years as a graphic designer and illustrator in California, Colorado, and Illinois. Seeing the difference good information can make in a community or business was gratifying.

In 2003, eye physicians informed me that I was very legally blind from Retinitis Pigmentosa with no available treatment. The changes in my vision forced me to give up the car keys and sell the house. Walking to the apartment from work at 2 a.m. was not safe and I eventually went on disability.

Deep Calls to DeepBecky Renee

When the wind is blowing and the waves are high; When you’re tossed about and you think you’ll die. Cry out to the Lord, cry out and be saved. Deliverance will come, when your pride has caved.

Lying deep in a pit, stranded alone and displaced; feeling helpless and sick, staring death in the face. Cry out to the Lord, cry out and be blessed. Deliverance will come, and your heart will find rest.

Trapped in a whirlpool spinning round and round, it feels never ending, going down and down. Cry out to the Lord, cry out and be still. Deliverance will come, with new life in His will.

Deep calls to deep in despair and strife; Surrender to God, surrender your life. Cry out to the Lord, cry out on your knees. Deliver me Lord! Deliver me please!

I thank God for the deepness He’s taken me to. The lessons I’ve learned, the wisdom that grew. I cried out to the Lord, I cried out and found peace. Deliverance came, and my hopelessness ceased.

Believe God can save you, believe He will hear; believe that He loves you, cast away all your fear. Cry out to the Lord, and cry out today! Be delivered now, and throw your pride far away.

Psalm 42:7 Deep calls to deep. The book of Jonah

Except when reading through the Bible in a year, I had never willingly chosen to read these books. I like reading Colossians, John, Ephesians, Luke, Genesis, Isaiah, and Jeremiah. (My reading list indicated I had read them all several times.) I had read a few passages in Deuteronomy for something else and knew I should read the whole thing.

There are some interesting things in Deuteronomy. This is Moses’ farewell message to God’s people before he dies. Granted, there are a lot of laws in Deuteronomy, though it makes sense to talk about these things as the people switch from being nomads to settling in the Promised Land. Moses reviews the history of their wandering in the wilderness and of kingdoms they have already defeated. It’s a reminder of what God has done for them. (Side note: Did you know that as the Israelites wandered in the desert for 40 years their clothes and sandals did not wear out? It’s in Deuteronomy.)

But God who is rich in mercy provided supportive friends. Some called to offer rides. Some helped me get mobility training, learn the St. Louis bus system, and relax. My former coworkers took up a collection that allowed me to visit friends in Washington State. My Federal Way friends insisted we go apartment hunting and here I am.

Who knew Washington State offers the best services to help people get back to school and back to work? Another great surprise has been meeting some dynamic people (who happen to be blind) advocating to bring down barriers in our society.

Early on, the verses that meant the most to me were I John 4:17-19. Now I am learning to appreciate Proverbs 3:5-6. I’m not sure where God is leading, but maybe we can encourage others that vision loss does not mean being sidelined in life.

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A PEEK AT WOMEN’S MINISTRIES

L-TEAMS

Women’s MinistryLadies! Gear up for a new year! We will continue with our monthly format (usually the first Saturday of the month) for a variety of topics, presentations, and events: Biblical, home life, relational, inspirational, financial, family, personal, and more. Look for advertisements at the Welcome Center and in the News and Notes.

Area Fall Women’s ConferenceWould you like to get away, be renewed and refresh your spirituality? An area fall Women’s Conference in beautiful Bellingham, Washington, is scheduled for October 19-21. The wonderful speaker this year is Kim Pierrot, from Vancouver, Canada. Throughout the weekend, we will have a worship service, speaker presentations, arts and crafts, and delicious food. I have gone every year for about 10 years and am always excited and rejuvenated. To stay in the cabins for the retreat the cost is $162. If you prefer the lodge, it is $143, or if you share a room in the lodge, it is $137 (for the program, meals and lodging). If you prefer to commute, the cost is $88 (which includes the meals and program). I would love for you to experience this with me; you will treasure it! Please contact me, Lori Hartman, if you have any questions 253.874.9190.

Once again, God is opening my eyes, and I’m learning more about Him through the words He has given in Scripture. In Deuteronomy, there is repetition of two very key things: (1) love the Lord and serve Him, and (2) teach the next generation. There’s so much more in Deuteronomy about love than I ever thought! God reminds us again and again what is most important for us: to love Him! Our Lord has also entrusted us with the great responsibility of sharing this with the next generation!

The ultimate lesson for me from Deuteronomy is how passionate God is about us! From the beginning of Deuteronomy, “Oh, that their hearts would be inclined to fear Me…” to the end of the book, “the eternal God is your refuge and underneath are the everlasting arms.” I love that!

What is a L-Team??People engaging in a Live.Love.Learn. activity where relationships are built and Christ is shared.

L-Teams are not small groups• They may or may not meet weekly• They may or may not open a bible or pray or talk

about Jesus

L-Teams can include anyone, meet anywhere, and do almost anything

• They are not just for St. Luke’s people - invite co-workers, neighbors and friends

• They can meet at your house, at church, or at the bowling alley

L-Team samples: Golf Tournament, Sip ‘n Score, NFL Pick ‘Em League, Christian Motorcyclists, and Afternoon Tea. We’ve also had a neighborhood trash pick-up L-Team and Mirror Lake community service teams, We have boy scouts, small group teams, hospital visitors, potlucks, thrift store shopping, and bowling.

For more information, contact Jan Grothe: 253.941.3000 or jgrothe@stlukes-church.com.

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program staff support staffgeneral infochris davis

lead pastor

jake allstaedtassociate pastor

kendra breyermissions coordinator

heidi francisdirector of communications

jan grothedirector of spiritual growth

larry kruegerdirector of worship and arts

mitzie olliladirector of children’s ministries

todd zerndirector of operations

donna breyerassistant to the associate pastor

janet brittassistant to the lead pastor

heather halbakkenpreschool registrar

karla harvathassistant to dir of spiritual growth

worship servicessaturday - 5:00 pm

sunday - 8:00, 9:30 and 11:00 am

nursery care available at all services

children’s church and sunday school

available sunday mornings

contact515 s 312th street

federal way, wa 98003253.941.3000

www.stlukes-church.com

St. Luke’s Church515 South 312th StreetFederal Way, WA 98003

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PAIDFederal Way, WA 98003

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