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THE SALEM CONNECTION FEBRUARY 2014
Salem Lutheran Church 21276 Archibald Road PO Box 100 Deerwood MN 56444 Phone: 218-534-3309 Email: [email protected] Website: www.salemdwd.org
SUNDAY MORNING WORSHIP Schedule
Traditional Worship – 8:15 a.m. Sunday School – 9:30 a.m.
Contemporary Worship – 10:45 a.m.
Coffee/Fellowship time will be held each Sunday morning between Worship
services in the Fellowship Hall
For the first time in MANY YEARS, it was
necessary to cancel worship services on January
5, 2014. The decision was made due to the
forecast of extreme cold and dangerous
windchill. You may be wondering where to check
if you are uncertain if worship is going to take
place. Suggestions:
1. Call the church and use the option for
“Worship times and weather related
announcements.”
2. Check Salem’s website: www.salemdwd.org If
worship is cancelled, it will be listed there.
3. Listen to WJJY (106.7 FM) or KKIN (94.3
FM) or KARE 11 (TV) for announcements of
cancellations.
4. If you have an email account that you have
made the church office aware of, check for an
email from the church.
Note from the Salem Church Office – it will be extremely rare that worship at Salem will be
cancelled! (In Pastor Dave’s nearly 17 years at Salem, January 5th is the ONLY time it has happened)
??? Did You Know ???
It is time for Salem to have a new pictorial directory in 2014. Photo sessions will be held in May. Watch for information soon!
Salem’s Praise Team Directors (Becky Klingelhofer and Noreen Steinbrecher) are looking for additional singers. See the article in this issue of the Connection.
Lent begins on Ash Wednesday, March 5th. Soup Suppers hosted by Salem’s youth will be held EVERY Wednesday during Lent. Soup cooks are needed! Sign up as a group or individual to provide soup.
Sunday School children will be singing at the 10:45 a.m. worship service on March 2nd.
Elsa Ray has been serving as Salem’s volunteer historian over the past year, pouring over old photos in our archives, identifying people in the photos. Elsa has already put in lots of hours on this project. Thank you, Elsa!
Blooper seen in a church bulletin: Irving Benson and Jessie Carter were married in October at the church. So ends a friendship that began in their school days.
Salem has approximately 37 family units that winter in a different (mostly southern) location each winter.
For each choir or handbell choir selection that you enjoy on a Sunday morning, HOURS of rehearsal have taken place!
The Salem Social Ministry Governing Board was able to pass a motion at their meeting in December to pay off the mortgage on The Mustard Seed building. A cause for rejoicing!
The Holy Spirit living within you is ever ready to help you… Ask Him to control your mind; He will bless you with life and peace.
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From Pastor Dave
Have you ever heard the phrase “the Camel’s Nose”? It’s a metaphor for how a bad situation may have begun slowly, but
eventually, gradually and incrementally it grows and becomes worse. Here’s the story I shared in a sermon a couple of
weeks ago:
One cold night, as an Arab sat in his tent, a camel gently thrust his nose under the flap and looked in. "Master," he
said, "let me put my nose in your tent. It's cold and stormy out here." "By all means," said the Arab, "and welcome" as he
turned over and went to sleep.
A little later the Arab woke up to find that the camel had not only put his nose in the tent but his head and neck
also. The camel, who had been turning his head from side to side, said, "I will only take little more room if I can put my
forelegs in the tent. It is difficult standing out here." "Yes, you may put your forelegs in the tent," said the Arab, moving a
little to make room, for the tent was small.
Finally, the camel said, "Could I come all the way in? After all, I’m keeping the tent open by being part in and
part out" "Yes, yes," said the Arab. "Come all the way in. Maybe it will be better for both of us." So the camel crowded
in. It was difficult because it was crowded, but the Arab went to sleep again.
When he woke up the next time, he was outside in the cold and the camel had the tent to himself.
I shared that in the sermon as it describes what happened with King Solomon in chapter 13 of The Story.
Solomon began his time as king of all Israel very well. He asked God for wisdom, rather than wealth and prosperity. He
built the temple to house the Ark of the Covenant. He reigned during a time of peace. So far so good. But then the nose
of the camel poked under the tent of his life. He married a woman from Egypt, even though God had told his people not
to marry foreigners. Yes, he built the temple, but he did so through taxing his people oppressively. More of the camel is
in the tent. He accomplished his massive building projects by enslaving his own people: every third month able bodied
workers were conscripted to labor in Jerusalem. More of the camel is in the tent. After marrying a whole lot of foreign
women (so much for Solomon being wise!) he start started abandoning Yahweh, and gravitating toward and then fully
following the “no-gods” of his wives. And the whole camel is in the tent of his life!
I’m thinking that this process of the camel pushing under and then into the tent is something we have all
experienced, and something we should all be vigilant in guarding against. In King Solomon’s story - and I would submit
in our stories too - one way we allow the camel in is by “mostly” following God, but exempting certain parts of our lives
from that commitment. “Solomon showed his love for the Lord by walking according to the instructions given him by his
father David, except that he offered sacrifices and burned incense on the high places.” (1 Kings 3:3) He did it all
“except”. Might that be like us? We’re really doing quite well at living as followers of Jesus “except” this one or these
few things. Except that I gossip. Except that I hate so and so. Except that I’m going to use my finances my way and not
in a Kingdom way. Except that I don’t really read God’s word ….. The camel’s pushing his nose in!
We even let the camel in though we know better. In fact sometimes we decide to go the wrong way. We actually
invite the Camel in. Like Solomon. In addition to the word “except”, there’s another important tell-tale word in
Solomon’s story .God said: “You must not intermarry with them”, (foreign women) “because they will surely turn your
heart after their gods.” Nevertheless, Solomon held fast to them in love.” (1 Kings 11:2) He knew better, nevertheless,
rather than following God’s ways he followed his ways. And I think we know too. We know it’s wrong to flirt, or linger
with our look, when we are married. Nevertheless we do. We know it’s wrong to neglect our family. Nevertheless we do.
We know that those of us who have more, need to compassionately help those who have less. Nevertheless we don’t.
We need to be vigilant. Scripture tells us “don’t give the devil a foothold” (We might say don’t let the camel’s
nose in) We need to put on the whole armor of God. In 1st Corinthians 16:13-14 it says
Keep your eyes open, hold tight
to your convictions, give it all you’ve got, be resolute, and love without stopping.(The Message)
All good stuff! And we need to take it all seriously and be intentional about it. But I know me, and you know
you. The time will come when we let our guard down, or hit that slippery slope, or wander away from the fold. Or
exercise thee “except that”, or invite the camel in saying “nevertheless.” Know this: Jesus said that when the sheep
wander and are lost, the shepherd - the Good Shepherd - searches for them. Our God is like that father watching and
waiting for the son to return and then running out to embrace and love him. People, while Solomon was the King who
had it all, Jesus was the king who gave it all so that we could live the abundant life – really having it all – with Him. With
Jesus there is forgiveness. There is restoration. There is healing. There is a new beginning. May you experience that
anew every day!
Peace,
Pastor Dave
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USHERS
Feb 2 8:15 Tom & Margaret Lunacek, Marv & Mary Jo Schoenike 10:45 John & Raye Cragun, Elsa Ray, Ken Schultz Feb 9 8:15 Ed & Sherri Godfrey, Randy Holmvig, Helen
Ryan 10:45 Ernie & Mary Erickson, Dean & Pat Sylvester Feb 16 8:15 Ralph Carlson, Deb Selk, Chuck Lubowitz, Karla Peterson 10:45 Jay, Sue, Jane and Joey Stromberg Feb 23 8:15 Clark & Joyce Marshall, Ron & Nancy Meyer 10:45 Laurie Ogard, Roger & Marlene Prill
READERS
Feb 2 8:15 Sandy Archibald 10:45 Myrna Nelson Feb 9 8:15 Peggy Blistain 10:45 Arlene Radach Feb 16 8:15 Kay Bendorf 10:45 Ken Stebbins Feb 23 8:15 Cathy Aykens 10:45 Barb Schiffler COMMUNION
2/2 8:15 Joyce Juracek, Rich Leino, Shirley Taylor
10:45 Kim Coughlin, Lee & Bobbie Midthun 2/9 8:15 Peggy Blistain, Tom & Margaret Lunacek 10:45 Wilbur & Arlene Radach, Rick Shafer 2/16 8:15 Kay Bendorf, Jessica Jones, Paul Tesdahl 10:45 Ron & Nancy Meyer, Ken Stebbins 2/23 8:15 Cathy Aykens, Gary & Becky Guida 10:45 Carole Nystrom, Al & Barb Schiffler ACOLYTES Early Late
2/2 Nate Williams Tyler Wynn 2/9 Michaela Stangel Marlee Zender 2/16 Noah Coughlin Emily Davis 2/23 Romey Ferguson Jake Kewatt
SUNDAY WORSHIP ATTENDANCE
December 22 175 Christmas Eve 456 December 29 165 January 5 – Worship Services Cancelled January 12 102 January 19 214
BAPTISM
Alex James Bautch
FUNERALS
Harvey Peter Ulm (at Koop Funeral Home) Evelyn M. Peterson Carl Richard Leino (at Koop Funeral Home) Curtis Arthur Hansen Michael Donald Peterson (at Koop Funeral Home)
FEBRUARY BIRTHDAYS
1 Nicolette Anderson 2 Travis Blake 3 Kay Bendorf, Brent Fields 5 Jasmine Siliznoff, Linda Stebbins 8 Curt Bordwell, Ernie Erickson 9 Cari Skeim 11 Debby Leonard, Kerri Sanderson 12 Nancy Meyer 13 Dee Dee Frahm, Joey Stromberg 14 Evie Bronson, Gary Munson, Jan Rude 16 Paul Erickson 19 Kyle Bartels, Alex Bundy 21 Jerry Sanderson 22 Lavonn Reeves 23 Gary Blake 25 David Olson 26 Doris Carlson, Dale Klungness, Lee Midthun 27 Terry Neff
FEBRUARY WEDDING ANNIVERSARIES
1 Rick & Sue Johnson (1969) 11 Kyle & Devan Bartels (2006) 20 Dan & Shirley Goodwin (1960) 22 Joel & Mary Huntley (1964) 22 John & Becki Zender (1997) 26 Jon & Shirley Ross (1998) 28 Mike & Jami Bodle (1998) 28 Archie & Deanna Olson (1959)
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Poinsettias
For sanctuary decoration in December were given by: Cathy Aykens in memory of Jay & Betty Jean Aykens
Peggy Blistain in memory of George & Joan Blistain
Doris Carlson in memory of Pastor Paul and
daughter Beth
Mark & Debbi Carlson in memory of Oscar &
Gladys Theien
John & Raye Cragun and family in memory of Libby
Hill
Elaine Dahlquist in memory of Burt Dahlquist
Kris Davis in memory of her dad, Harlan Hilk and
grandparents
Terry & Judy Fields in memory of their parents
Bruce & Sandy Grivna in memory of Elsie Grivna
Steve & Joan Haglund in honor of Arnie & Dorothy
Haglund and in
memory of Durand & Charlotte Rotzel
Jason & Jessica Jones in honor of grandparents and
in memory of Noel
“Buzz” Jones and Brenda Leino
Dale & Vi Klungness in memory of family and friends
Ron & Sandy Kretlow in memory of Elvin & Rosella
Kretlow and Edner
& Stella Borreson
Tom & Margaret Lunacek in honor of their children
& grandchildren
Gary & Carol Malek in memory of their children
Shelly and Jesse
Clark & Joyce Marshall in memory of their parents,
Clark & Dorothy Marshall, Albert & Alice and
Joyce’s brother Robert
Ken & Carole Nystrom in memory of Scott Nystrom
Archie & Deanna Olson in honor of Laverne
Swanson and in memory of Marvin Larson and
Archie & Edith Olson
Elsa Ray, Lance and Shelly & families in memory of
Doug Ray
Elsa Ray and Jim & Carol Gerber in memory of their
parents, Martin &
LaFern Linberg, Bob & Marge Gerber, Bob & Sally
Ray
LeRoy & Helen Ryan in memory of loved ones
Pat Saxum in memory of husband Don and son David
Kevin & Jeanne Stangel in memory of Florence
Harrington
Greg Meyer, Director of Care & Outreach
Life is defined by “big” moments. What makes the moments so special and important is that we have people we love to share them with us. Without that, they are just another experience or bump in the road. Our family has just experienced another
one of those life defining moments with the death of my father-in-law, Curt Hansen. He was referred to as an icon of Bay Lake, perhaps that is true, but certainly not a title that he tried to obtain. He loved serving people and he loved Bay Lake for all the memories he held and cherished of times with his family and friends. It was his home, not a destination.
The way in which he led his life has been an inspiration for me and many others by living his life in a way that honored God, family and friends. His joy came in being who he was; by enjoying what he had, not wishing for what he didn’t have. I think we all can benefit from that lesson. I know the world leaders certainly could as well!
In the midst of the sadness and loss there has been blessing upon blessing. The outpouring of love and support has been incredible. For my family that has been the manifestation of the Body of Christ. Hebrews 10:24-25 – “24 And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, 25 not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.”
I truly understand more of why Pastor Dave has such passion for small group ministry within the congregation of Salem. I have been a part of many small groups, but none as wonderful as our “The Story” group. Since we began meeting several members have experienced the death of a loved one and others dealing with significant health issues. This small group has been such a source of love and support. We are becoming a family within the family of Salem. Studying God’s Word, sharing what it means in our lives, spending time around a table together to share a meal or treats as a part of our evening study time. We have the unique benefit of meeting in close community as well, so we rotate from home to home as hosts each week which adds to the meaning and enjoyment. The friendships and bonds we are making with this group will surely outlive our time together as a study group. We just served last week at the soup kitchen and since it was our night to meet, we did the weekly study right there as the food cooked. Studying God’s Word, serving God’s people, and
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growing together in our faith and relationships with each other. Mighty awesome! I hope and pray that other small “The Story” groups are experiencing the same blessings our group is.
Thank you for the care and concern that you have shown to Curt’s family. Thank you for being the Body of Christ we call Salem Lutheran Church. Together we say thank you to our Lord for the peace, comfort and strength of His Word, His presence in our lives and for creating the church of Christ.
THANK YOU!
To: Salem Lutheran Church From: Crow Wing County Jail inmates
We would like to take a moment and offer a heartfelt thank you to your church and all the members who helped to make possible the Christmas Party. The pizza, brownies and cookies were a welcome relief from the regular jail food. Your telling of the true origin of Christmas was refreshing and inspirational! It was amazing how you made so many gifts available for our children and then took care of shipping them as well. We truly appreciate everything you have done. Thank you all so very much! Thanks to Salem Lutheran Social Ministry. You have brightened my day with the beautiful poinsettia! Thanks to Salem kids for the card! LaVerne Holmvig Thank you so much for your $100 support for our Mud Run fundraiser this past fall. Your support to our ministry to people with disabilities means a lot and is appreciated by our guests and volunteers alike. Blessings to you and many thanks. The Brainerd/Baxter LADM Board Dear Salem WEST, I am so grateful for the box springs and mattress. I sleep a lot better. I have progressive M.S. Thanks a lot for your kindness and Greg Meyer. Tom Kehl
Dear Friends, Thank you so much for the beautiful poinsettia. How very nice of you. A special thank you to Jasmine Siliznoff and the Salem kids for the blessings and love they sent also. Hopefully you will all have a very Happy Christmas. Love and prayers. Virginia Platisha Dear Members of Salem Lutheran Church, What a blessing it is to be partners with you! Thank you for being a member congregation with Voyageurs Lutheran Ministry. Your support of the mission at Camp Hiawatha and Camp Vermilion is directly related to faith formation in your congregation’s youth and families. Joel Abenth Executive Director Dear Salem Friends, Thanks so much for this lovely flower and thanks to the children for the card. It brightens my day every day. May God bless every one of you. Friends in Christ, Lenore McBroom Dear Friends at Salem Lutheran Church, Thank you for your gift to Lutheran World Relief in support of the people of the Philippines in the aftermath of Super Typhoon Haiyan, and also the gift to the general fund. Thanks to compassionate friends like you, LWR is able to respond quickly and efficiently to emergencies. On behalf of LWR’s staff, our partners and especially the people of the Philippines who are comforted by your gift and compassion, please accept my heartfelt thanks. Jeff Whisenant Interim President and CEO Thank you all for your prayers, words of comfort and sympathy, your presence at the visitation and funeral. Thank you to the Kitchen Team and volunteers who prepared and served lunch and to the ushers who kept finding more room for guests. We appreciate the staff and others for graciously rearranging their schedules and the extra work that they did for us. The love and support of our Salem family means so much to all of us. The family of Curt Hansen
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The Mustard Seed – Deb Selk, Manager
I think we all can say we’ve had enough of this cold and snow! It’s nice and toasty here at the Mustard Seed. We started off a bit slow here in 2014, but it has picked up and is staying busy. We are in need of more Volunteers, so if you are interested or know anyone that would be, let me know. We have been organizing the basement as we are utilizing the whole space now. Also this time of the year our donations have slowed down so we could sure use some. Salem West accept donations Monday-Friday. Also, we could use a couple more volunteers at Salem West on Wednesday mornings. Please let me know if you are interested at 534-2945. We will end January with a Super Bowl Sale and start February with a Snow Flake Sale. Check out the new sign on the highway side of the building. This should draw in more customers.
Blessings, Deb
Jesus told them another parable. The Kingdom of
Heaven is like what happens when a farmer plants a
mustard seed in a field. Although it is the smallest of
seeds it grows larger than any other garden plant and
becomes a tree. Birds even come and rest on its branches.
Matthew 13:30-32
LIBRARY NEWS
February is a short month, but it has a lot going on. We celebrate Groundhog Day, Lincoln’s Birthday, Valentine’s Day and Washington’s Birthday. It’s also Black History Month and Salem’s library has books about prominent Black Americans for young readers and adults. Look for these books on the children’s table and near the check-out desk.
There are also books on display for those interested in learning more about the biblical characters that we have been reading about in The Story. Visit the library and pick up a good read. Our next library committee team meeting will be February 11. As always, we welcome new members and any suggestions for improving Salem’s library.
Salem Praise Team
As one of the two new co-directors of the Salem Praise Team I would like to take this opportunity to tell everyone how much I have enjoyed being a part of this group. Becky and I have put in a lot of outside time selecting music for each praise service that follows the theme given and practicing new music to be worked in at a later time. As a group, we gather every Wednesday evening at 8:00 and practice the chosen music and work on parts. Practicies are always upbeat and fun. We joke around but work hard too and we are all there to help each other. One of our ideas is to add to the group. We would love to have 8 vocalists (2 on each part), a bass guitarist, perhaps a 2nd guitar player and a relief percussionist especially during the winter months while Jerry is gone. If you or someone you know might be interested in joining us we would love to talk with you about it. High School students and up are welcome. If you are interested but already sing in the choir orplay bells consider joining us on Sundays when you don’t sing or ring. Just try to come to practice as often as you can to learn new music. Or if you would be willing to just fill in once in a while when one of the regulars cannot be there we can work with that and would welcome you. We all have commitments that take us away now and then. We ask that you think about this, talk to us or just show up to practice and give it a try. We would love to have you. As much time as I put into this I can honestly say that I am getting so much more out of it. After all, isn’t “Singing Praises to God” what life is all about? Feel free to contact me (218-678-3610) or co-director Becky Klingelhofer (218-927-4655) if you have any questions about the Salem Praise Team. Noreen Steinbrecher
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NEWS FROM MISSIONARY, John Lunn
Greetings to my sponsoring churches! I hope you all had a blessed Christmas. I spent my Christmas time visiting and eating with friends and preaching at the Christmas Carols by Candlelight service which was packed. There was good music from a couple of choirs - a brass group and some stringed instruments. My sermon was very simple and well received. I talked about how we've made a rather stark and dank setting into something dreamy. Jesus comes into our places of hurt and vulnerability. I used my crèche as a visual aid. When I last wrote to you, I had just returned from time in Liberia and I had moved into a smaller but better located apartment. I like the apartment. It is close to a mosque and there is a Call to Prayer every morning at 5 a.m. You know what, there is no snooze button on the Call to Prayer. I try to get to bed early and I set the alarm for a little later which gives me the opportunity to snooze a little after that. When I first moved, the power was out frequently. The building has a generator which they run during the evening hours, if the power is out. The government supply seems to be much more consistent and I appreciate that. I have been working on the details for some End of Life training for nurses and pastors. Two of the faculty will come from the US and two colleagues from India will also join. Graduates of the Masters in Nursing Education will attend this program and then they will be able to integrate this into the nation’s nursing education curriculum. I have also been working on finalizing the arrangements for Pastor John Sumo to have specialized surgery on his badly broken leg at Christian Medical Center in Vellore India where I spent the first eight years of my mission. My friends, the priests at Sneha Deepam, have offered his wife and her sister lodging at an amazingly low price so they can help Pastor Sumo recover. The surgery and medical care will cost about 1/10 of what it would cost in the US. On a lighter note, I went to get a haircut. The barber did not speak much English and I speak almost no Kiswahili, so there was a lot of gesturing and pointing. He would ask, “This okay?” and I'd say, “Yes,” and then he'd cut more. And once the
clipper clips, you can't go back! What I'm working on now is writing up the volunteer request forms for our partner hospitals, and there are a lot of them. Once I've written them, I'll send them to those hospitals to edit and approve. I don't know the hospitals in Tanzania as well – yet – but I enjoyed doing the requests for Phebe Hospital in Liberia. I know that hospital well and can share what they need. I am surprised and happy at the way my list of sponsoring churches has grown! I will be on home assignment this coming summer and will soon be sending those churches the list of dates I'll be available to visit in person. I won't be able to meet everyone, but I will visit as many churches as possible. Right now, I am preparing to leave Tanzania for a couple of months in India. I ask for your prayers as I travel and as I spend time in India. And you will all be in my prayers as well. Peace, John
CURRENT EVENTS / ANNOUNCEMENTS
Quilting Ministry
QUILTING takes place on Tuesday mornings in the fellowship hall at 9:00 a.m. and Thursday, February 6th, 6:30 p.m. at Heartwood.
Diaper Ministry
Gather in the fellowship hall on Wednesday, February 12th at 9:00 a.m. to help cut t-shirts for Salem’s Diaper Ministry. All are welcome!
Care Center Worship
Salem will be hosting worship at the Care Center in Crosby on Sunday, March 2nd at 1:30 p.m. Residents need assistance getting to and from worship and they are always appreciative of those who stay and worship with them. If you are able to help out, please come to the Care Center around 1:15 p.m.
Family Fun Nights
WEDNESDAYS, February 5 & 19 -- The evening begins at 5:30 p.m. with a light supper and then the
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group will proceed to the Deerwood Auditorium for games for kids of all ages! Bring your friends! Parents, please accompany children in grade 6 and under. We will be done in time for FINK which begins at 6:30 p.m.
2014 MEN’S RETREAT UPDATE
From Gary Guida
As I sit inside where a wood stove is keeping me fairly warm, I can’t help thinking back to last summer and the great times that warm weather and soft water gave me. With temperatures forecast for minus 20 degrees and snow, it comforts me to think about launching my boat into the beautiful Kabetogema Lake and enjoying 80 degree temps while spending time with fellow Christians next July. That trip to “Kab” has been a wonderful time each year to catch up with old friends and make new ones, all the while enjoying some amazing scenery, fantastic fishing, wonderful meals and provocative bible studies. Now that we all have our 2014 calendars and are making summer plans, take time to flip the pages to July and pencil (only God writes in ink) in the dates for the 2014 men’s retreat. July 14th will be the day we depart Salem for four enjoyable days at Kec’s Cove resort on beautiful Kabetogema Lake. The friendly crew at Kec’s will once again be providing us fine dining, comfortable cabins and a room for our evening discussions. Our retreat planners would like to have the same problem that we had in 2011 when we had more men signed up than Kec’s had cabins/bed for. Some last minute situations arose and a few had to cancel which left us with the correct number of guys so I didn’t end up sleeping on my boat . Once again this year Larry and Vivian Kec would like to have a count of attendees by the later part of February so look for the registration forms in the narthex kiosk and get them filled out and turned in to the office so that you can reserve your place. A $50.00 deposit will reserve your place on the trip. These cold winter days are also a good time to put new line on those fishing reels. Most of the boat captains will probably be running 6 pound test
which will provide you with enough strength for Kab’s walleyes but present a BIG challenge if you hook into one of those monster sturgeon. Until July then, stay warm and dream of keeper walleyes stretching your line. If you have questions you can give Ernie Erickson (678-2482, cell #218/839-0970) or Gary Guida (546-5794) a call.
GROUPS/INDIVIDUALS NEEDED TO MAKE
SOUP FOR LENTEN SOUP SUPPERS
It is Salem’s tradition to offer Soup Suppers on Wednesdays during Lent from 5:30-6:30 p.m., before Worship. Salem Youth in grades 7-12 serve at the suppers and the free-will donations are given to the youth line item in the budget. This year, we will be asking individuals to make a LARGE stock pot of soup for one or more of the Soup Suppers – AND – we are also asking groups within the congregation (Bible study groups, Circles, Council, SMGB, etc.) to make a roaster of soup for one of the suppers. We already have two groups signed up, so now only 4 more are needed! The GROUP sign-up sheet is on the kiosk in the lobby. Please talk to your small group members about this group effort. Individuals may sign up to make soup using the Sunday morning response sheet beginning in February (1/3 colored sheet handed out at worship).
The TASK FORCE ON DEEPENING RELATIONSHIPS has changed its name to the FELLOWSHIP TEAM. The next meeting will be held at Coach’s Corner in Deerwood on Monday, April 14th at 5pm. GIRLS NIGHT OUT is for all women of Salem and friends! Come to Coach’s Corner in Deerwood on Tuesday, February 11th at 5:30 p.m. for dinner and fellowship.
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February Circle Gatherings
SARAH – Thursday, February 13, 9:30 a.m.
NAOMI – Thursday, February 20, 1:30 p.m. at Heartwood
RUTH – NO meeting
FINK NITES
Confirmation for all youth in grades 7-9 happens in the fellowship hall on Wednesdays, February 5 & 19 at 6:30 p.m. In February, the focus of study will be The Lord’s Prayer. All students in grades 7-9 are welcome!
COORDINATOR OF CHILDREN’S
MINISTRY
Connie Lou Swanson
Sunday School It has been to good to return to Sunday School and “The Story” curriculum. Feb schedule includes:
Feb 2 – Chapter #16 – Fall of Israel
Feb 9 – Chapter #17 – Fall of Judah
Feb 16- Chapter #18 – Daniel
Feb 23 – Chapter #19 – Ezra We have hung an embroidered quilt in the education wing that depicts 24 Bible stories. There is also a set of ‘Trading Cards’ on the bulletin board in that area. Please take the time to stop by with your child. Talk about the characters and ask your child what they can tell you about the story. Sunday School Teachers will meet Feb 20 at 6:30 pm. Sunday School children will sing at 10:45 am worship service on March 2. Creative Kids Creative Kids will meet Wednesday, February 5,3:30-5:00 pm to make Valentines for homebound members and friends. Children in grades Kindergarten through Grade 6 are invited! Friends are welcome. Kids Against Hunger The mission of Kids Against Hunger, a humanitarian food-aid organization, is to significantly reduce the
number of hungry children in the USA and to feed starving children throughout the world. Kids Against Hunger is not affiliated with or restricted to a particular religious group and does not discriminate on any basis when distributing its meals. The organization’s approach to achieving its goal – the eradication of world hunger – includes the packaging of a highly nutritious, vitamin-fortified soy-rice casserole by volunteers at numerous locations within the USA and Canada, and the distribution of those meals to starving children and their families in over 60 countries through partnerships with humanitarian organizations worldwide. Last year alone, volunteers at Kids Against Hunger’s food packaging centers across the USA packaged forty million meals for children and their families around the world and around the corner. Last fall the SS children voted to give the 2013-2014 SS offerings to Kids Against Hunger. September--December offerings totaled $142.95 and a check has been sent. We will continue to support this ministry with offerings and hope to set up an event in the spring, and participate in an event to package food. Watch for more information on this opportunity! Haiti Mission Lisa and Josef Slepica will be going to Hinche, Haiti from February 7-14. They will be staying at the Midwives of Haiti House and have been collecting items for newborn babies. They will be setting up satellite clinics in surrounding villages and distributing eyeglasses (prescription and readers). They invite people to pray for them and to support their efforts financially, to help get the needed items to newborns in Hinche, Haiti. Check out the display on the Children’s Ministry table and consider a gift. THANK YOU to those of you who have supported this project! Sunday School children will be assembling donated items into Baby Care Kits in their classrooms, on February 2nd. 2nd Annual Quilt-a-Thon The Quilt-a-Thon is scheduled for Saturday, February 8th, 9am-3pm. Potluck lunch will be served around noon. Quilters and non-quilters alike, are invited to come and help make quilts for
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our neighbors far and wide. Come for the morning, afternoon or whole day. This is a great opportunity to get to know each other and to serve God, in a creative way. Reach out and bring a friend! Call the church office and ask for Connie Lou if you have questions. CAMP Sunday It is time to start planning for those awesome summer camp experiences! We invite you to take part in CAMP Sunday activities on February 23rd. Check out the camp display and pick up brochures, registration forms and campership application forms. “In today’s busy and fast-paced world we all need time to get away, to unplug and to reconnect with our Creator. The summer programs of VLM can offer you this and so much more!” (taken from the VLM website). Visit www.vlmcamps.org for the summer camp schedule. A note from the Church Office: Remember – you must register your child for camp directly with Voyageurs Lutheran Ministry. The church does not do this for you. The “campership” applications are for Salem members to apply for funds that may be available to help you with the cost of camp. If your child receives a campership, you will be notified and that $$ will be sent directly to Voyageurs Lutheran Ministry.
Overview of Mortgage & Building Fund December 2013
Mortgage Principal Balance $ 2,077,802.88 Monthly Mortgage Payment
(Principal & Interest) $ 15,408.00 Additional Principal Pymt $ - Building Fund Beginning balance 12/01/13 $ 259,750.84 Income December 2013
Gifts $ 52,893.00 Interest $ 74.05 Expense December 2013 Mortgage Payment $ (15,408.00) Additional Principal $ - Ending Balance 12/31/13 $ 299,328.30 If you have questions, please contact Sandy Beyer, Financial Secretary (218)534-3309 Monday & Wednesday 8:00 a.m. -5:00 p.m.; Thursday 8:00-Noon
Salem’s 2014 Honduras Team is preparing for their March 11 to 19, 2014 Trip. In
order to accomplish the work, we need to raise at least $5,000.00 for construction materials and supplies for the children.
The team consists of 14 people. Those from Salem are: Kim and Noah Coughlin, Debbie and Becky MacKay, Cheri Petterson, Barb
and Cecil Schmidt and Greg Meyer. *(each team member pays their own way in
full) We need your prayers and your support. To Pray: Watch for a sign up for prayer
partners. To Support Financially: please write your
check to Salem Lutheran and note Honduras in the memo.
Thank you for your support!
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SALEM LUTHERAN CHURCH
Council Meeting (during Annual Retreat)
January 18, 2014
MSC = the motion was seconded and was carried
Members present: Lynn Hansen, Pastor David, Ken Stebbins, Diane Hein, Paul Tesdahl, Rick Shafer, Tom
Lunacek, Rae Jean Anderson, Roger Prill, Eileen Leino
Breakfast was provided by Diane Hein and was followed by a “getting to know you” icebreaker.
Salem Lutheran Church
SECRETARY’S REPORT (submitted by Debbi Carlson)
MOTION: to approve the minutes of the December 2013 meeting. MSC.
TREASURER’S REPORT (submitted by Sandy Beyer, Financial Secretary, explained to the Council by Paul
Tesdahl)
At the end of December, 94.53% of projected envelope giving was received. This compares with a five-
year average of 94.1%
One computer is replaced on a yearly rotation and this was done in December. The Financial
Secretary’s computer was the one replaced in 2013.
Children’s Education expense came in just under budget.
PASTORS REPORT
The Christmas Eve worship services were very meaningful. Choir sang at both services. Needed next
year: the addition of gathering music at the early service. The organist/pianist was rehearsing with the
choir before 3pm worship.
Worship was cancelled January 5th
due to forecasted bitter temps and wind chill. This was the only
worship cancellation in the nearly 17 years that Pastor Dave has been at Salem. Pastor Dave explained
all of the steps that were taken by staff to notify the congregation. The Council affirmed the action that
was taken and the steps that were followed to notify the congregation. The Council decided that the
information concerning where to check for possible worship cancellations be published in the monthly
newsletter beginning in September of each year.
Salem has had 4 funerals in January and 4 baptisms are coming up in the near future.
A safety policy statement for our insurance carrier is needed by September 2014. A policy for those
working with children, youth and vulnerable adults needs to be included with background checks on
those individuals. Diane Hein will work with Pastor Dave on this policy.
DIRECTOR OF CARE & OUTREACH REPORT – Greg Meyer
Biggest news is the retirement of debt on the Mustard Seed building. Social Ministry chose to pay for a
closing company and purchase title insurance so there will be no issues in the future.
Grants continue to come in, the most recent from the Otto Bremer Foundation for $10,000.
Sixteen people are traveling to Honduras in March to work at Kids Ark International. Fundraising for
supplies only is underway. Team members pay for their own travel, food and lodging.
Donations at Salem WEST have slowed down considerably as is typical for the time of year.
Social Ministry is hoping to buy a newer truck or SUV for deliveries this spring.
CHILDREN’S MINISTRY – Connie Lou Swanson
Post cards were sent out in January to remind families that Sunday School is back in session.
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Creative Kids meeting February 5th
.
Lisa and Josef Slepica participating in Haiti mission trip, and Kim and Noah Coughlin participating in
Salem’s Honduras mission trip, both trips in February.
FACILITIES TEAM
Water filtration system and/or water softeners to possibly prevent staining and sediment build-up may
need to be explored.
Rebates for light upgrade have been received.
DEEEPENING RELATIONSHIPS TASK FORCE
This group has changed its name to the Fellowship Team
Their next meeting will be held April 14th
at 5pm.
Lynn Hansen has scheduled times for the other teams to report to the Council.
LENTEN OFFERING DESIGNATION
MOTION: to table this item until the February 2014 Council meeting, so Tom has an opportunity to get
information from the Social Ministry Governing Board letting us know what they would use the money
for if the council directs a portion of the Lenten offering for Salem’s social ministries. MSC.
The Council watched the video “Make Your Neighborhood Your Cathedral.” Many ways of doing this were
discussed in the video. The Council had spirited discussion on the appropriateness – or lack thereof - of
engaging and meeting with people in ways that connect to how they “make meaning” in their lives.
Study Topic: The Mission Table – Forward and Introduction discussion was led by Roger Prill.
Sunday school time was discussed. Given our culture what would be the pros and cons of having Sunday
School during the second service? Some congregations have children starting in worship, being dismissed after
the opening set of songs to learn about the same bible focus the adults are hearing in worship, and then
returning to worship in time for communion. Any discussion leading to decisions about Sunday School should
include, not only Salem’s Coordinator of Children’s Ministry and Sunday School Team, but also parents. All
the key players would need to be involved.
Policies on Staff Evaluation and Fundraising will be reviewed.
Respectfully submitted,
Eileen Leino, Council Secretary
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SALEM LUTHERAN CHURCH Social Ministry Governing Board Meeting January 16, 2014
SMGB = Social Ministry Governing Board MSC = The motion was seconded and carried Present: Greg Meyer, Sandy Kretlow, Lois Hicks, Tom Lunacek, Kevin Edstrom, Debbie MacKay, Carol Brezina (via phone). Debbi Carlson (taking minutes) The meeting opened with devotions by Debbie. SECRETARY’S REPORT
MOTION: to approve the minutes of the December 2013 meeting. MSC.
CORRESPONDENCE
One thank-you note was read.
FINANCIAL REPORT – Carol Brezina
Complete financial reports were received by board members prior to the meeting.
The Mustard Seed 5 year comparison was reviewed.
The totals and breakdown of Grant balances were explained by Carol.
Received a $10,000 from Otto Bremer this month.
The Operating Funds statement was reviewed.
The pay-off on the Mustard Seed building was a bit less than anticipated.
Dedicated Accounts Balance sheets were explained and discussed.
Carol will be checking with the financial secretary for further explanation regarding net income.
MOTION: Any amount over $15,000 in Net Income be moved into the Vehicle Purchase line item. MSC. Carol will let the board know the exact amount.
MOTION: to approve the financial reports. MSC. REPORT ON SALEM WEST COMMITTEE MEETING
SMGB members Debbie MacKay and Kevin Edstrom attended the January 12, 2014 meeting.
Question from the Salem WEST Committee: Does the SMGB want to continue membership in the RSVP organization? Benefits: They will conduct background checks on volunteers; They keep track of all volunteer hours; They would help in the design of a brochure if it is needed.
MOTION: to sign the agreement and continue the relationship with RSVP. MSC. VISITATION AND GREETING CARDS
More Salem people are involved in visitation.
Kay Cooper and Bonnie Christenson are sending greeting cards. HOLIDAY FLOWERS
MOTION: To continue to purchase flowers at Christmas, Valentine’s Day and Easter for Salem’s homebound and those who have experienced illness or loss. MSC.
SALEM WEST REPORT
Short of dressers, whole bed sets and queen frames. Greg has ordered some of this and Pat will be regularly checking the warehouse.
There are typically 3-5 deliveries and 3-4 pick-ups each week.
There are fewer volunteers in the winter months.
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There is a lot of Christmas stuff left over which will go to The Mustard Seed for Christmas in July.
People have noticed that there is a new thrift shop in Deerwood. Not sure if this is a short term venture or not. THE MUSTARD SEED REPORT
Could use a few more volunteers during the months snowbirds are away.
Preparing for Valentine’s Day.
There was discussion of the snow piled up in the parking lot next to The Mustard Seed. Down to just a few parking spots due to the amount of snow there.
GREG’S REPORT
Greg is working on a meeting for Salem and Bridges of Hope to happen soon. There is a need to discuss issues and frustrations that both employees and volunteers are experiencing. The relationship with Bridges of Hope is valuable for a number of reasons. Work will be done so that all can voice concerns and work out the issues. Hoping to meet together on January 21.
There is a new sign on the east side of The Mustard Seed building – it is HUGE!
Lois and Debbie will visit area furniture stores next week to remind them of our ministry and the need for donated furniture. Greg will pick up donuts from the Senior Center in Brainerd that can be distributed with information about Salem WEST when the visits are made.
Greg will take care of writing new articles for the CI Courier stating the need for donations.
There is also a need to get the information out to local organizations.
The Cause of the month for January is Habitat for Humanity. February – Honduras.
Need to have someone attend the meetings of the Cuyuna Lakes Chamber of Commerce.
Greg has been approached concerning applying for summer VISTA workers to work in the area of food and education for children. The application deadline is January 21, 2014.
MOTION: that Greg should proceed with applications for summer Vista workers. MSC.
There are some issues with the apartment occupants. The relationship with LSS concerning the apartment rental has been disappointing.
Personnel matters were discussed. Deb Selk is taking a more active role in finding volunteers for both Salem WEST and The Mustard Seed. The Board will consider needs for a part-time employee at The Mustard Seed.
The meeting was adjourned. Respectfully submitted, Deborah Carlson
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The Story Schedule The dates below are the Sundays in February , and the chapters/topics Pastor Dave will be
preaching on. You are encouraged to have read each week’s chapter prior to each Sunday, and if
you are part of a study group, your group should plan on meeting prior to each Sunday. If you are not part of a group, you can
always join a study at Salem, Wednesdays at 2:00 PM, or Thursdays at 10:30 AM or 6:30 PM. It’s never too late to begin or to
resume your participation in The Story. Sermons are all posted online and accessible through Salem’s website (www.salemdwd.org)
We still have books and study guides available. Every four weeks in worship there is a “rewind” video clip, summarizing all of The
Story we have covered so far.
Date Chapt # and Topic Focus Text
2-2 #16 The Beginning of the End Fall of Israel 2 Kings 17-19,
Isaiah 3, 6, 13-14, 49, 53
2-9 #17 The Kingdoms’ Fall Fall of Judah 2 Kings 21, 23-25,
2 Chronicles 33, 36,
Jeremiah 1-2, 4-5, 13, 21,
Lamentations 1-3, 5,
Ezekiel 1-2, 6-7, 36-37
2-16 #18 Daniel in Exile Daniel Daniel 1-3, 6, Jeremiah 29-31
2-23 #19 The Return Home Ezra Ezra 1-6, Haggai 1-2, Zechariah 1, 8
Supporting Your Church
As we are now a month into 2014 there are a few giving related items for you to be aware of:
1. As you know, we canceled worship on the first Sunday of the year due to the forecasted bitterly cold temperatures and wind
chill values. Additionally we had glare ice on the roads and sidewalks the second Sunday of the year, resulting in low
worship attendance. Offerings given were therefore also very low. If you are able to do so, it would be a tremendous help if
you could “catch up” with the giving you had intended to do
2. One way to ensure that we do the giving we intend to, regardless of the weather conditions or anything else that may prevent
us from being present at Salem for worship is to use Simply Giving®. Through Simply Giving®, your offerings are made
through a pre-authorized withdrawal from your bank account. You determine the frequency of your automatic donation –
semi-monthly, monthly or quarterly– the option is yours. Your donation is deposited into Salem’s bank account on the
same day it is withdrawn from your account. You will find more information, including authorization forms in the kiosk in
the lobby.
3. The Congregation Council made the decision to return to one packet of envelopes to be picked up rather than having them
mailed on a monthly basis. If you did not pick up your 2014 offering envelopes in the lobby, they have now been moved to
your church mailbox, located in the hallway going to the Fellowship Hall. Your mailbox number is the same as your offering
envelope number. There is an alphabetical list of names next to the mailboxes if you need to confirm which mailbox is
yours. Picking them up will save your congregation the cost of postage required to mail them to you.
Thank you for your generous support of the mission and ministry we do together in and through Salem Lutheran Church. We are
making a difference in Jesus’ name!
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WINTER FUN DAY – Saturday, March 1, 2014, 1-4pm at Camp Vermilion. Enjoy sledding, relax in the sauna, build snowmen, ride in a horse-drawn sleigh and more! Bring your snowshoes or cross-country skiis and explore the trails around camp. Come for a day of fun with your family, youth group or on your own. Snacks, cocoa and cider will be available throughout the afternoon. The cost is $5/person; $15 family maximum. Cost includes all activities and snacks. To register, contact the VLM office at 800-331-5148 or register online at www.VLMcamps.org and go to the Winter Fun Day page. PADDLE BUILDING WORKSHOP – March 2-4, 2014 at Camp Vermilion. This event starts at 4pm on Sunday and ends around noon on Tuesday. Includes four 3-hour sessions where you will complete your own paddle – from gluing the wood blanks to a finished work of art. All are welcome! Space is limited.
Register early! See above information to register. Cost = $200/person and includes instruction from an experienced paddle builder, devotions, time to enjoy Camp Vermilion, great food and fellowship.
ELCA WORLD HUNGER
We are a church that believes God is calling us into the world – together. As members of the Evangelical
Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), we are called to respond.
Working with and through our congregations in the United States, Purerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands;
Lutheran churches overseas and other partners, ELCA World Hunger is uniquely positioned to reach
communities in need. From health clinics to microloans, water wells to animal husbandry, community meals to
advocacy, your gifts to ELCA World Hunger make it possible for the ELCA to respond, supporting sustainable
solutions that get at the root causes of hunger and poverty.
In 2014, our goal is to raise $20 million to support programs in the United Sates and those identified by our
global partners. We rely on your gifts – ELCA World Hunger is funded solely by gifts from people like you
and congregations like yours.
Please give today. Make your check payable to “ELCA World Hunger” and mail to:
ELCA World Hunger
PO Box 71764
Chicago IL 60694-1764
To give online with a credit card, please visit www.ELCA.org/hunger/donate
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FEBRUARY 2014
Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
1 10AM-2PM Handbell Workshop
2 8:15 AM Traditional Worship 9:30 AM Sunday School 9:30 AM The Story Study Group 9:30 AM Memorial Committee Meeting 10:45 AM Contemporary Worship
3 5:30 PM Girl Scout Mtg 6:00 PM Girl Scout Mtg
4 9:00 AM Quilting 10:00 AM Coffee 6:00 PM Cub Scout Mtg
5 6:30 AM Women’s Bible Study 10:30 AM Staff Mtg 2:00 PM The Story Study Group 3:30 PM Creative Kids 5:30 PM Family Fun Night 6:00 PM Choir Rehearsal 6:30 PM FINK NITE 7:00 PM Salem Ringers Rehearsal 8:00 PM Praise Team Rehearsal
6 8:30 AM Women’s Bible Study 10:30 AM The Story Study Group 6:30 PM Quilting @ Heartwood 6:30 PM The Story Study Group
7 7:00 AM Men’s Bible Study 5:00-9:30 PM Girl Scout Event
8 8:30 AM Serpent Lake Ass’n Mtg 9:00 AM-3:00 PM Quilt-A-Thon
9 8:15 AM Traditional Worship 9:30 AM Sunday School 9:30 AM Salem WEST Committee Meeting 9:30 AM The Story Study Group 10:45 AM Contemporary Worship
10 8:45-11:30 AM Unlimited Learning Mtg 6:30 PM Great River Strings Board Meeting
11 9:00 AM Quilting 10:00 AM Coffee 3:00 PM Library Team Meeting 5:30 PM Girls Night Out @ Coach’s Corner in Deerwood 6:00 PM Cub Scout Mtg
12 6:30 PM Women’s Bible Study 9:00 AM Diaper Project 10:30 AM Staff Mtg 2:00 PM The Story Study Group 6:00 PM Choir Rehearsal 7:00 PM Salem Ringers Rehearsal 8:00 PM Praise Team Rehearsal
13 8:30 AM Women’s Bible Study 9:30 AM Sarah Circle 10:30 AM The Story Study Group 5:00 PM Social Min Governing Board Mtg 6:30 PM The Story Study Group
14 7:00 AM Men’s Bible Study
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16 8:15 AM Traditional Worship 9:30 AM Sunday School 9:30 AM The Story Study Group 10:45 AM Contemporary Worship
17 5:30 PM Girl Scout Mtg 6:00 PM Girl Scout Mtg
18 9:00 AM Quilting 10:00 AM Coffee
19 6:30 PM Women’s Bible Study 10:30 AM Staff Mtg 2:00 PM The Story Study Group 5:30 PM Family Fun Night 6:00 PM Choir Rehearsal 6:30 PM FINK NITE 7:00 PM Salem Ringers Rehearsal 8:00 PM Praise Team Rehearsal
20 March Newsletter Deadline 8:30 AM Women’s Bible Study 10:30 AM The Story Study Group 1:30 PM Naomi Circle @ Heartwood 5:45 PM Council Meeting 6:30 PM The Story Study Group 6:30 PM SS Teachers Mtg
21 7:00 AM Men’s Bible Study
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23 CAMP SUNDAY 8:15 AM Traditional Worship 9:30 AM Sunday School 9:30 AM The Story Study Group 10:45 AM Contemporary Worship
24 Honduras Mission Team Departure
25 9:00 AM Quilting 10:00 AM Coffee 6:00 PM Cub Scout Mtg
26 6:30 PM Women’s Bible Study 10:30 AM Staff Mtg 2:00 PM The Story Study Group 6:00 PM Choir Rehearsal 7:00 PM Salem Ringers Rehearsal 8:00 PM Praise Team Rehearsal
27 8:30 AM Women’s Bible Study 10:30 AM The Story Study Group 6:30 PM The Story Study Group
28 7:00 AM Men’s Bible Study
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SALEM STAFF CHURCH COUNCIL Pastor – David N. Anderson Rae Jean Anderson 218-678-2043 Director of Care & Outreach – Greg Meyer Lynn Hansen, President 218-678-2051 Office Manager – Deborah Carlson Diane Hein 218-678-2699 Financial Secretary – Sandy Beyer Eileen Leino, Secretary 218-534-3502 Coordinator of Children’s Ministry – Connie Lou Swanson Tom Lunacek 218-678-2926 Custodian/Facilities Coordinator – Glen Helm Roger Prill, VP 218-764-3383 Organist/Pianist – Becky Klingelhofer Rick Shafer 218-545-1532 Choir Director – Scott Ruffing Ken Stebbins 218-764-2587 Handbell Choir Director – Kevin Edstrom Paul Tesdahl, Treasurer 218-546-5036 Kitchen Coordinator – Kathy Schultz Salem WEST Facilitator – Pat Bauer Salem WEST Program Assistant – Amanda Meier EMAIL Salem WEST CEP Employee – Melissa Lubovich Salem Church Office [email protected] The Mustard Seed Manager – Deb Selk Pastor David [email protected] Praise Team Directors – Becky Klingelhofer and Noreen Steinbrecher Greg Meyer [email protected] Connie Swanson [email protected] Sandy Beyer [email protected] MINISTRY COORDINATORS Salem WEST [email protected] Wedding Coordinator – Kim Coughlin The Mustard Seed [email protected] Cradle Roll – Jessica Jones Glen Helm [email protected]
