NOVEMBER 2015
Sharon Lutheran
Sharings
Luncheon
Lefse Baked goods
Crafts
Sharon Lutheran Church
Saturday, November 7th
10:00am to 1:00pm
Thanksgiving Eve Worship Wednesday, Nov. 25
6:15pm Celebration Hall
Following worship, attend Sharon Lutheran’s
7th Annual Ice Cream Social
compliments of Sharon’s Staff.
Dear Friends,
I recently had the opportunity to visit with some visiting
college students from Shanghai, China. They attended one of
our worship services and were surprised at the style of worship,
especially the audio visuals that were used, and the number of
people who came to worship. “Do people really come regularly
to worship?” they asked. “Yes,” I replied, “many of them do.”
In order to understand their question, I asked about Christian
worship in Shanghai. “Churches are mostly for tourists,” they
said. The same was generally true for Buddhist temples. Often
ornate in design, they are primarily visited by tourists.
I was taken aback a bit by their words. I know that there are
places in China where the church is alive and well and thriving,
but the general perception of these students was that religion
has a very minor place, if at all, in people’s lives in China. “I
went to church at Christmas and there was just some reading.
It was boring,” one student said.
We find that in our society religion is on the decline. Church
membership and attendance is on the decline in most major
denominations of our country. The “nones” – those that claim
no church affiliation, are on the rise. It doesn’t require much of
a stretch of the imagination to see the place of religion in our
society mimicking that of China.
Whereas many of us grew up with the church as the bedrock
of our homes and communities, that is no longer the case. One
doesn’t make the assumption as displayed through the media and
the entertainment industry that people will worship or even take
their faith seriously. In fact, the assumption is the opposite.
So what is our response? If we indeed believe that the faith is
important to us, that the gospel message is core to our lives,
then it behooves us to take that seriously and to dedicate our
lives to that principle. Worship attendance is vital, not only in
renewing our faith and being supported by the Christian commu-
nity, but in declaring to our world that the church is still relevant
and vitally important to us and we’re not going to let it slip away
to be a memory of the past. To be grounded in the faith means
that our commitment to Christ and Christ’s church are more
important now than ever.
Thanksgiving is a time we stop and thank God for our many
blessings. This Thanksgiving take time to give thanks to God
for the blessing of the Church. Then commit yourself to greater
involvement in the Church and the Means of Grace (Word and
Sacrament). Make a statement through your life that your faith
is an important and active component of your identity.
Pastor John
Invitation to Serve
Communion
“It is more blessed to give than to
receive.” –Acts 20:35
What a privilege to receive the gift
of God’s grace in Holy Communion
each week! Those who have had the
opportunity to serve communion
also know what a privilege it is to
offer that gift to others. If you’ve
never tried it, or if it’s been a while,
would you consider serving bread or
juice, or holding a basket? You can
pickup a communion server card
with detailed instructions at each
entrance, and please ask for help if
you need it! Any seasoned server
or other worship leader would be
happy to show you the ropes.
Please join the
Board of Properties in
Decorating the church for the
Christmas season.
Monday, Nov. 23rd at 6:00pm
Meet in the narthex.
All are welcome! All are needed!
Sharon Lutheran Book Group Tuesday, Nov. 3rd at 7 p.m.
Rose of Sharon Lounge
Anyone is welcome to join us on the first Tuesday of the month in the Rose of Sharon Lounge at 7pm.
Nov 3—The Good Earth by Pearl S. Buck A classic story of Wang Lung, a Chinese peasant farmer, and his wife, O-lan, a former slave. With luck and hard work, the couple’s fortunes improve over the years. This powerful and beautifully written fable reso-nates with universal themes of hope and family unity.
Dec 1—Return of the Prodigal Son by Henri Nouwen In seizing the inspiration that came to him through Rembrandt's depiction of the powerful Gospel story, Henri Nouwen probes the several movements of the parable: the younger son's return, the father's restoration of sonship, the elder son's vengefulness, and the father's compassion. The Return of the Prodigal Son: A Story of Homecoming is a spiritual adventure story.
We read a little of everything! Contact Shannon Hansen if you have any questions 218-779-6909.
Faith in Film Friday, November 20
Come join us for food, fellowship, and a film! Faith
in Film is for anyone 18 or older who enjoys a good
movie and enlightening discussion. Our next meet-
ing will be November 20. Depending on the movies
that are currently showing, we will meet at River Cinema in East Grand
Forks or at the church. Watch the November bulletins and emails for more
detailed information. If you are interested in joining this group, but cannot
come to the November gathering—or if you simply want more details—
contact Bruce or Cheryl Nyhlen. We’ll get you on our email list.
([email protected] 218-779-1240 or [email protected] 218-779-0247)
GOLDEN AGE CLUB
Friday, Nov. 13th
The Golden Age Club will meet
again on Friday, November 13th,
at 2:00 PM in the South Hall.
We’ll enjoy a portrayal by Ruby
Grove of M. Beatrice Johnstone,
who, in 1912, became the super-
intendent of Grand Forks Public
Schools. She had a long and dis-
tinguished teaching career in the
Grand Forks area and started the
county health nurse program.
Following that presentation, we’ll
enjoy some goodies prepared by
Sharla and Mark Thompson and
Kathy and Ken Johnson. Invite a
friend or two and come for a fun
afternoon.
Sunday, Nov. 8th 3:30pm-5:30pm
Sharon Lutheran
Ice cream floats!
Friends of Ethiopia Reads invites you to
“Stirring It Up” with American Girl Authors
Mary Casanova and Jane Kurtz at Sharon Lutheran Church
This fundraiser for Ethiopia Reads
will have lots of American Girl fun and a raffle for the American Girl Doll of the Year,
“GRACE”
Bakers from O’ for Heaven’s Cakes
will help attendees decorate cupcakes.
Norwex products will be available for purchase with all
proceeds going to help Ethiopia Reads.
Make a better future for Ethiopia through literacy.
Questions? Contact Mary Adams at 701-739-5520.
Bible Study Opportunities
WEDNESDAY AM BIBLE STUDY
This weekly Bible Study with Pastor John delves into
the Bible for study and discussion. The format for
our fall study will include a look at the appointed
scripture readings for the coming week. It will be an
opportunity to become familiar with these texts be-
fore they are read in worship and to recognize the
themes that are presented in our weekly lectionary
readings. We may even raise insights that will weave
their way into the sermon for the coming week!
Everyone is welcome to join in the study (even if you
weren’t part of a Wednesday study before). The
hour-long study begins at 9:45 AM each Wednesday
in the South Hall. The coffee pot is always on and
quite often snacks make their way into the room as
well. Come and be renewed by our biblical study!
Men’s Study Tuesday, November 24
All men are invited to join the Men’s Study which
normally meets on the second and fourth Tuesdays of
each month at 7:00pm in the church lounge. In the
month of November, because of a conflict which
takes Pastor John out of town on the 10th, we will be
meeting on the 24th. We’ll be studying some familiar
Old Testament stories and have some background
information laid out for us by Terry Fretheim, one of
the great Old Testament scholars from Luther Semi-
nary in St. Paul, MN. His video presentation will lead
to some great discussion on these Old Testament
stories. All men are invited and encouraged to come
for these one-hour sessions facilitated by Pastor John.
Come and be supported and encouraged by other
men as we grow in the faith!
Faith Formation: Learning In Faith Together
L.I.F.T.
Plan to take advantage of a Faith Formation opportunity for adults on Sunday mornings at 10:23am in the Sanctuary, L.I.F.T – Learning In Faith
Together. The pastors will be the leaders of these ses-sions, and will give more insights and background on the text that was preached on during worship. This year, sermons will focus on Old Testament stories, the same stories our youth are learning about in confirmation. For November:
Nov 1-The Story of Joseph-Pastor Lynn
Nov 8-Birth and Early Life of Moses-Pastor John
Nov 15-Crossing the Red Sea-Pastor Roger
Nov 22-Abundance-Pastor Lynn
Nov 29-NO L.I.F.T.
So plan to come as often as you are able at 10:23 and learn more about our history as Christians from the stories of the Old Testament. Take this time to grow in faith!
Interested in joining a Circle Bible Study monthly meeting?
Call Jan @ 746-6440 for more information.
Rachel Circle Nov. 17th
1:30pm
Remember to check out
the Kiosk by the office for
news & opportunities for
Sharon Women
Hannah Circle Nov. 23rd 7:00pm at
Parkwood Place
Mary-Martha Circle Nov. 17th
9:00am at the church
Adult Study on Genesis
In conjunction with our goal to support our confir-
mation students in their study of the Old Testament,
an adult study on the book of Genesis is underway
on Sunday afternoons at 3:45 pm. This nine-week
course, facilitated by Pastor John, incorporates video
introductions by Terry Fretheim, one of the es-
teemed Old Testament scholars from Luther Semi-
nary in St. Paul, MN. Even if you haven’t attended
the first three sessions in September, you are still
welcome to join the class at any point. The one-
hour class is held in the church lounge. All are
welcome to attend.
By God’s Grace~
Created to Worship,
Called to Teach,
Committed to Serve
It’s Time!
Faithfully Fit Forever
Do you want to get in shape and in-
crease your flexibility? Come and join
us at Faithfully Fit Forever. We meet
Monday and Wednesday mornings
from 8:30-9:30am in the lower level
activity area of the church. All are
welcome to attend this non-denominational faith
based exercise, devotion, and health education pro-
gram. Faithfully Fit is a low-impact aerobics pro-
gram which includes aerobics, strength training with
hand weights or stretch bands, cool down and
stretching, and ends with devotions. Please bring a
water bottle!
This program is FREE and sponsored by the Health
Ministries program. People from other churches
are welcome to attend. You can sign up by calling
Sherryl at 701-739-0087 or call the church office.
“Welcome to Baptism” Orientation
If you are planning a baptism in your family, plan to come to
a one-hour orientation called “Welcome to Baptism”
Sunday, Nov. 8 at 2:30pm in the church lounge.
Please enter through door #1.
To register for the class, please call the church office
by Friday before the class at 772-3122;
email the church office at [email protected];
or speak to one of the pastors.
Sponsors are welcome to come in addition to parents.
The class is designed to help answer questions about baptism, including:
What is baptism? When should baptism occur?
What is my role as a parent, sponsor, or family
member of the baptized?
If you have any questions about this class, please speak
to one of the pastors.
MEMORIALS
In Memory of: Rose Marie Monteith, by Mona Leake;
Todd Steinke, by Ardell, Fern & Linda Bunde, Dick & Bev
Walsh; Jeanette Anderson, by Lyle Anderson; Lolly
Wohlfeil, by Michael Wohlfeil; Donald Hemmingsen,
by Pete & Carolyn Tunseth; Yvonne Gilbertson, by Bob
Gilbertson; Edward Holzer, by KC & Linda Inman
BAPTISMS
10-11-15 Kinley Rae Thorpe, child of Kelsey & Tyler Thorpe
10-11-15 Ella Rae Peterson, child of Tammy & Shawn Peterson
10-18-15 Lennox Jon Kearns, child of Nikki & Jon Kearns
10-18-15 Quinn RaeAnn Halley, child of Kayce & Gabe Halley
MARRIAGES 10-3-15 Shawn Rosaasen & Haley Desjarlais
PASTORAL ACTS
Kairos is a Greek word that means time. It is not a spe-
cific time, like 3:00 p.m. or October 19. Kairos time is
the “right” time, when the opportunity to do something is
ripe, when things are in order and it is now “the time”.
The time to rake the leaves is kairos time. The time to
put on a heavier jacket is kairos time. The time to visit a
family member is kairos time. Kairos time is not a specif-
ic time, but rather, in light of present circumstances it is
the time to do something.
We are in such a time at Sharon. With new leadership
in Faith Formation as well as calling another pastor and
the changing culture of church membership and activity
in our country, it is the right time to ask, “Who are we?”
“What are we called to do?” “What are our strengths?”
“What do we need to pay more attention to?” “What
would we like to see through Sharon’s ministry?” By
asking such questions, we can plan a path for our future
that is based on good information and that follows our
passion for as well as the need for ministry.
Kairos is a Christian organization that helps congregations
find answers to such questions, as well as a great deal of
other information. The Executive Committee and Parish
Planning Council have had presentations from a repre-
sentative of Kairos, and feel this would be a good thing
for Sharon to do. The information we would receive
would give us a good picture of our strengths, our inter-
ests, our desires, our energy and our health as a congre-
gation. It can help us decide the best direction to take in
our ministry based on what we find out about who we
are and what needs we see as we plan our future.
The cost of engaging Kairos for all they would do with
us is about $15,000. However, we have one generous
family that has pledged to give half of the cost, as well as
another family that has given $1000 for it. If you would
be willing to support this work financially and would con-
sider making a gift to help us with this endeavor, it would
be greatly appreciated. If you have any questions, please
talk to Pastor Lynn.
More information about Kairos and your part in this
work will be coming, so watch for it in bulletins and
newsletters. If you have questions, please feel free to
talk with the pastors or PPC members. Thank you for
your help and support of this important opportunity!
This is an exciting and important time for Sharon – it is a
Kairos Time!
Noisy Offering Wed., Nov. 25th & Sun., Nov. 29th
November Noisy Offering will be donated to Bags of Blessing for the Northlands Rescue Mission. Items will be purchased and placed backpacks and duffle bags and then delivered to the Mission in time for Christmas.
Opportunities Church in Society
Northlands Rescue Mission is currently in need of the following
full size items: ~Men’s body wash ~Shampoo ~Toothpaste
~Medicated foot powder ~Lotion
~Hair brushes
You may place your items on the shelves in
the narthex by the Contemporary Hall door.
Thank you!
Kid’s Plus
Backpack Program
Think of what your child eats dur-ing one weekend. Now imagine that when they went to the cup-boards or refrigerator there was no food. This is how it is for over 500 kids in 4 Grand Forks schools.
We need people from 6pm-8pm the first Monday of each month to help pack food items in a plastic bag, for hungry kids.
Go to: sharonlutheran.org and click on
“Sign up Genius”
Please help these kids to get the food they need.
Thank you!
Be a Salvation Army Bell Ringer!
Soon it will be time to ring the bell to collect money for the Salvation army. When you hear
the bell ringing, it’s a reminder that Christmas and the birth of Jesus are not far away. It’s also a
reminder that there are families in our area that are struggling to make ends meet.
Sharon Lutheran is again providing volunteers to ring the bell. We will be in the Columbia Mall
in front of Macy's. We have 2 days we will be ringing the bell: Saturday, November 28th and
Thursday, December 10th. The times for both days will be 10am-8pm. We ask for two peo-
ple to ring the bell for a 2 hour time slot. We ask for 10 people total for each day.
Sponsored by the Board of Church in Society
Flu season is right around the
Corner .
WelCore Health is ready to help you protect you and your families against
the influenza virus.
Flu seasons are unpredictable, can be severe, and can begin
as early as October and last as late as May. The best way to
prevent the flu is by getting a flu vaccine each year.
Sharon Lutheran will host a voluntary Flu Shot Clinic on
Sat. Nov. 7, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. during our annual Bazaar.
WelCore will process insurance paperwork for you, so
please be sure to bring your insurance card! The fee is $56
for an injection and $59 for FluMist.
Sunday, November 8, 2015 is our Sharon Lutheran Church Mission
Fair. We encourage all of you to "Grow In Faith Together" and find
where your unique gifts and talents fit with the needs of agencies in our
community. By God's Grace we are Created to Worship, Called to
Teach, Committed to Serve. We have invited 20 agencies and charities
from our community to share their stories with us. Have you ever
wondered what you can do to make someone's life better? Do you
have skills, abilities, or knowledge that can be put to use in a positive way right here in Grand Forks?
Please stop by and visit with the representatives from our community to see where your special gifts
may be used. There are many opportunities for service, and we challenge you to seek them out to
make a difference! Sponsored by the Board of Church in Society
TRANSPORTATION MINISTRY
Are you unable to attend church because of a health reason or disability? The Health Ministry Team
provides rides through Grand Forks Taxi/Nodak Taxi. Call the church office for more
information. The funds are running low in the Transportation Ministry Program at
Sharon Lutheran Church. This program is dependent on your congregational
donations. Please consider sending a contribution so that we can keep this
important ministry going. Thank you.
Hand-Up Program
The Health Ministry Team sponsors a Hand-
Up Program. What will this look like for
Sharon Lutheran Church? We know that
there are some members of our congregation
that sometimes need a little help with the
expenses of daily life. Maybe it is food for the
family this week, a new pair of shoes for the
kids or a tank of gas to get to work. Most
likely, we have all been there sometime
during our life. So, when we can, we would
like to offer our fellow friends at Sharon a
“Hand-Up”. The Health Ministry Team relies
solely on congregational support. We do
not have a designated church budget. We
would appreciate your support in either of
two ways – a $20 gift card from a gas station,
grocery store or retail store or a family
donation. Please leave your gift cards and/or
donations in the church office. Please desig-
nate for the Health Ministry Team Hand-Up
Program. The Pastors will confidentially
work with members of our congregation that
need this support
during the year.
Thank you for your
help. We make a
difference during a
friends stressful time.
Friend to Friend Ministry
Are you going through a life changing event? Having someone to talk to who has wisdom and experience to share can be a life saver to the person who is feeling overwhelmed by a new diagnosis or serious life changing event. Some examples are: a new diagnosis of cancer, diabetes, MS, heart disease, mental illness, stroke, paralysis; loss of a job, parent entering a Nursing Home, and the list can go on and on.
If you would like more information please con-tact the church office.
He a lt h M i ni s tr i e s
Health Ministry Team Members
The Health Ministry Team is looking for
new members. It is the goal of the team to
support a variety of activities that focus on the
emotional, physical and spiritual health of the
congregation. Some of our activities include:
Care Basket Ministry, Hand-Up Program,
Congregational Potlucks, Safe Kids Sunday, Un-
dies Sundays, Faithfully Fit, Care of the Church
Plants. Please consider joining our team. For
more information, please email Cindy Siders at:
-Care Baskets –
The Health Ministry Team has created Care
Baskets for members of Sharon Lutheran that are
experiencing significant health conditions. If you
know someone that would enjoy a Care Basket
(with their permission) please call the church office.
AN IMPORTANT THANK YOU TO ALL OF YOU!
STORIES TO SHARE...
Middle School Ministries
We are having a blast at 4G every Wednes-
day night! On a recent 4G night, we played
a version of Tag in which
everyone was “it” and no one was ever
“out”. Everyone played from the
beginning of the game until the end - quite a
bit different from the normal game and dif-
ferent from how we feel in life sometimes.
Every week, no matter what we have
planned, our middle schoolers can come
and be themselves.
It is such a gift to be able to tell our
students that we have a place for them here
at Sharon and that they belong - in this
church building, to each other, and to God.
In a world and a context where “fitting in”
can be hard, it is such an
Confirmation Day
48 students affirmed their baptism
during Confirmation services last month.
These 11th graders spent four years in Con-
firmation instruction (Old Testament, New
Testament, Small Catechism, and Lutheran
Living) and a fifth year with an adult mentor,
growing in faith together and participating
in a wide range of
activities. Over the past several months,
these students took part in a faith
conversation, selected a meaningful Bible
verse, and created the stoles that they wore
during their Confirmation service. We wel-
come these Confirmands as adult members
of our congregation, and we look forward to
partnering in ministry together. May God
continue to bless these students and their
Dear families,
As I write this, I have served as the Director of Faith Formation Ministries at
Sharon Lutheran Church for just under three months. During that time, I have
learned so much about areas of education and youth activities in our congregation
that I was not very familiar with. I have learned to delegate to Megan Rowell and
Hannah Senescall, two important team members who deserve so much credit for a
successful start to our program year. Most importantly, I have learned how to ask
for help when I simply don’t have enough hours in the day to get to everything on
the calendar.
And when I have asked for help, you have all responded, in so many ways!
I appreciate the outpouring of support and encouragement that you have shown me.
I give thanks for the members of the Boards of Youth and Education who have
gone above and beyond to care for the ministries here. I am humbled and honored
to serve alongside our pastors and staff, who have allowed me to grow and make
mistakes. I am grateful for countless volunteers, church school teachers, principals,
music leaders, Confirmation guides, and adult leaders who have been a vital part of
Faith Formation Ministries here at Sharon.
Most importantly, I give thanks to God, who claims us and calls us. We are
continually being made new in the waters of our baptism. We love because God
first loved us. We pass on the faith, even as we ourselves are learning how to be
lifelong followers of Jesus. We know that the Holy Spirit fills our worship spaces,
classrooms, hallways, and all of us, igniting us for mission and service in our
church, in our community, and in the world.
Blessings and peace, Dave Berger
A la Carte A special meal deal
for busy families!
Are you having a hard time trying to
figure out what to make for dinner on
those busy Wednesday nights? Come
and enjoy a meal right here at church.
Our A la Carte meal is designed for
families and individuals who are on the
go. The following items will always be
available for purchase: peanut butter
and jelly sandwiches, chips, apples,
carrots & ranch, candy, milk, and pop.
On a rotating basis, we will also offer
sloppy joes, pizza by the slice, pulled
pork, and taco in a bag.
Food is served from
5:00 - 6:30 p.m.
in South Hall November Menu
November 4 ~ Pizza
November 11 ~ NO A la Carte
November 18 ~ Taco in a Bag
November 25 ~ NO A la Carte
Join Us!
… Much more
info inside!
NOVEMBER 2015 News
FAITH FORMATION MINISTRIES
Page 9 FAITH FORMATION MINI STRIES
MORE NOVEMBER NEWS
It’s time for 3-4-5 ALIVE!
A weekly program for 3rd, 4th, and 5th graders to gather
together in community for Bible learning fun
through stories, games, food, and friends.
We meet on Sunday afternoons from 3:45-4:45 p.m.
in the “Living Room” (lower level youth room).
Join us and be part of 3-4-5 ALIVE! Friends are always welcome!
3-4-5 Alive! will meet on
November 1st, 8th, 15th, & 22nd!
3RD, 4TH, AND 5TH GRADERS...
Sharon Lutheran Giving Tree: Sponsored by Faith Formation Ministries
Once again this year we are adopting area families in need. At the end of November, please stop by the tree in the Narthex and follow the directions you find there. Family names have been provided to us through Red River Valley Community Action. Thank you in advance for your generosity to those in need.
*Choose an ornament *Purchase gift as stated on ornament *Wrap gift *Attach ornament
SHINE!
Shine! is our weekly music
ministry for 3rd, 4th, and 5th grad-ers. Shine! meets in the choir room on Wednesdays from
5:15-5:45 p.m. No registration is needed.
We look forward to seeing you there!
BY GRACE
By Grace is our music and drama ministry for
6th, 7th, and 8th graders. Rehearsal days/times will vary throughout the year.
Please contact Dave Berger at 701.772.3122 if you are interested in being
a part of By Grace!
BRIGHT LIGHTS! Bright Lights is our weekly music
ministry for kindergarten, 1st, and 2nd graders. Bright Lights
meets in the choir room on Wednesdays from 4:45-5:15 p.m.
No registration is needed.
We look forward to seeing you there!
CHURCH SCHOOL NEWS
All students
Lambs-2nd
Grade must
be dropped
off directly at their class-
room and picked up
again directly from the
classroom. Student this
age will not be dismissed
from class without a
parent or older sibling.
Parents should notify
their child’s teacher if
someone other then
themselves will be
picking up their child.
Church school students should have received
offering information in their classrooms. If your
child did not bring home this information, please ask
their teacher or stop by the Faith Formation Offices.
Weekly offering is just one of the ways children learn
to share their blessings with others. 50% of all the
monies collected in November and December will be
shared with Northlands Rescue Mission, Salvation
Army, and St. Joseph’s Food Pantry.
These agencies provide food to peo-
ple in the Greater Grand Forks area
who are less fortunate. Thank you in
advance for your generosity!
Attention, church
school families:
During the
first week of
December, you will
receive more
information about
our upcoming Christmas programs.
We look forward to the season of
Advent and eagerly await sharing
the story of Jesus’ birth with
your families and with the
entire congregation.
Page 10 FAITH FORMATION MINI STRIES—NOVEMBER 2015
The CROP Walk was a great success again
this year. We enjoyed great weather, had a
fun time, and raised almost $3000 to help end hunger!
Thank you for
ordering wreaths
and supporting
middle school
and high school
mission trips at
Sharon Lutheran
Church!
WREATH PICK-UP DATES:
Wednesday, November 25th
Sunday, November 29th
Wednesday, December 2nd
4G
4G is a weekly gath-
ering of young people in grades 6-8 on Wednesdays from 8:15 - 9:00 p.m. in the youth room (lower lev-el). We will play games, eat, have fun, and grapple with questions middle schoolers ask about family, friends, and faith. Bring your friends and take the 4G Challenge!!
November 4G Schedule:
November 4
Confirmation Notes...
Confirmation continues to meet weekly
on Wednesday nights from 7:15 - 8:15 p.m.
(November 4th and 18th)
Wednesday, November 11th
No Confirmation - Veterans Day
Wednesday, November 25th
No Confirmation - Thanksgiving
We’re continuing to get ready for next summer’s mission trip!
REMINDER: Our next student meeting
for those joining us in St. Paul will be
Sunday, November 8th
at 11:45 a.m. in the Living Room.
Parents, please join us at 12:30 p.m.
Page 4 FAITH FORMATION MINI STRIES
HIGH SCHOOL NEWS
High school mission trip meeting on Sunday,
November 8th at 1:00 p.m.
This meeting is for ALL 9th - 12th graders signed up for the
summer 2016 high school mission trip to Kansas City, Missouri. We will share trip details, review the fundraising schedule, and prepare for this amazing experience. Parents are also asked to attend. Thanks!
**Registration is still open for this trip!**
Uniquely You high school
girls’ Bible Study meets on
Monday, November 9th and 23rd at 8:00 p.m.
Contact Hannah
for more info!
M.O.B. (Men of the Bible) high school guys’ Bible Study meets on Monday, November 9th & 23rd at 7:00 p.m. in the upstairs youth lounge.
Contact Dave for more info!
10th Grade Student and Mentor
Large Group Meeting!
Sunday, November 8th
at 5:30 p.m. Students, be sure to connect
with your mentor and remind
them to meet you at Christus
Rex Lutheran Campus Ministry (across
from UND library). Parking on the north
side gravel lot. Contact Dave if you have
any questions. See you there!
CALENDAR OF
UPCOMING EVENTS
November 8 - Summer 2016 trip meetings:
Middle school mission trip at 11:45 a.m.;
High school mission trip at 1:00 p.m.;
10th Grade Student/Mentor meeting
(Christus Rex) at 5:30 p.m.
November 9 - M.O.B. Guys’ Bible Study 7 p.m.;
Uniquely You Girls’ Bible Study 8 p.m.
November 11 - Bacon and Bible Study 7:30 a.m.;
No other activities (Veterans Day)
November 23 - M.O.B. Guys’ Bible Study 7 p.m.;
Uniquely You Girls’ Bible Study 8 p.m.
November 25 – No Activities (Thanksgiving Break);
Wreath distribution begins
CONTACT US
Dave Berger
Director of Faith Formation Ministries and
Youth Music Ministries
772-3122 ext. 208
Megan Rowell
Interim Faith Formation Ministries Associate
(Lambs - Grade 8)
701.772.3122 ext. 207
Hannah Senescall
Interim Faith Formation Ministries Associate
(Grade 9 - Young Adult)
701.772.3122 ext. 210
Attention ALL High School Youth! RE:NEW
meets Wednesday nights from 8:15—9:30 p.m. This time is
designed for you to get together with your friends, to hang
out, share conversations, grow your faith, share food & laughs,
and support each other in challenges you may face during
your week. We meet in the upstairs youth “TP” lounge.
Wednesday, Nov. 4 and 18—No Re:New Nov. 11 or 25
Bacon & Bible Study at Dave’s
Wednesday, November 11th 7:30 a.m.
Come and gather with friends to share a warm
breakfast, great conversation, Bible learning, and lots of laughs.
Please contact Dave if you need his address.
All 9th-12th grade students are invited to attend!
PARISH PLANNING COUNCIL MEMBERS
Executive Director Fred Wittmann [email protected] 701-746-1870
Assistant Ex. Director Shari Breiland [email protected] 701-739-5595
Assistant Ex. Director Jon Green [email protected] 218-791-5242
Treasurer Traci LaDouceur [email protected] 701-739-0631
Board of Church in Society Kristi Houska [email protected] 701-739-5160
Board of Education Mary Adams (Co-Dir) [email protected] 701-739-5520
Board of Education Sara Peters (Co-Dir) [email protected] 701-610-9440
Board of Evangelism Jim Schober (Co-Dir) [email protected] 701-610-1296
Board of Evangelism Bonnie Nerby (Co-Dir) [email protected] 701-772-8308
Board of Lay Ministry Mark Thompson [email protected] 701-599-2300
Board of Parish Fellowship Lori Bott (Co-Dir) [email protected] 701-740-3185
Board of Parish Fellowship Beth Hetletved (Co-Dir) [email protected] 701-741-2918
Board of Property Teresa Dahlstrom (Co-Dir) [email protected] 701-746-0667
Board of Property Mike Welsh (Co-Dir) [email protected] 701-599-2232
Board of Public Relations Cheryl Nyhlen [email protected] 218-779-0247
Board of Stewardship Brent Jiran [email protected]
Board of Youth Vicki Ronkowski (Co-Dir) [email protected] 701-740-6581
Board of Youth LuAnn Schmidt (Co-Dir) [email protected] 218-791-0522
SEPTEMBER MINISTRY SUPPORT
Amount needed in Operating Revenue each month per approved 2015 budget is $ 86,500.00
September Actual YTD Actual Budget
Revenue 2015 2015 2015
Current Ministry Gifts $65,476.50 $658,082.29 $924,327.00
Loose/Misc. Offering Gifts $2,187.00 $22,241.53 $34,773.00
Summer Stewardship $645.00 $4,648.50 $4,615.00
Operating Fund Memorial Gifts $300.00 $2,430.00 $2,515.00
Church School, Confirmation & VBS Registrations $5,275.00 $15,660.00 $14,710.00
Benevolence Gifts $1,353.00 $11,857.73 $16,309.00
Other Gifts and Donations $2,668.50 $24,452.98 $40,751.00
Total $77,905.00 $739,373.03 $ 1,038,000.00
September Actual YTD Actual Budget
2015 2015 2015
Expenses/Debt Reduction $ 72,538.95 $ 729,813.55 $ 1,038,000.00
September Designated gifts received:
Thrivent Choice Dollars $ 261.00
Health Ministries Donations $ 50.00
Undesignated Memorial Gifts $ 120.00
Choir Fund Memorials Donations $ 50.00
St Joseph's Social Care and Thirft Store $ 30.00
Backpack Program $ 40.00
Church School Offerings $ 215.07
Confirmation Offerings $ 59.75
Noisy Offering - Backpack Program $ 529.50
Total $ 1,355.32
NOVEMBER 2015 Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat
1 9:00am Sanctuary worship
9:00 & 10:30am Celebration worship
Church School 9:30am & 11:00am
10:23am L.I.F.T.
3:45pm 3-4-5 Alive
3:45pm Bible Study
2
8:30am Faithfully Fit
3
7:00pm Sharon Book Group
4 8:30am Faithfully Fit 9:45am Bible Study
4:45pm “Bright Lights” 5:00pm A la Carte 5:15pm “Shine”
5:15 & 6:15 Church School 6:15pm Worship 7:00pm Sanctuary Choir Rehearsal 7:15pm Gr. 6-9 Confirm. 8:15pm ReNew & 4G
5
5:30pm Health Ministry Team
6:30pm Board of Church
in Society
6 Set-up
For Bazaar
7 SHARON
LUTHERAN BAZAAR
10am-1pm
8 Mission Fair
9:00am Sanctuary worship
9:00 & 10:30am Celebration worship
Church School 9:30am & 11:00am
10:23am L.I.F.T.
2:30pm Welcome to Baptism class
3:00pm Ethiopia Reads
3:45pm 3-4-5 Alive
3:45pm Bible Study
5:30pm 10th Gr. Mentor Large group mtg
9
8:30am Faithfully Fit
7:00pm Men of the Bible
(M.O.B.) High School boys
8:00pm
“Uniquely You” High School girls
10 9:00am
Women’s Book of Faith Study
5:00pm
Youth Team
6:00pm Board of Properties
7:00pm
Education Team
NO Men’s Study
11 7:30am High School “Bacon & Bible”@ Dave’s 8:30am Faithfully Fit NO Bible Study
NO Church School or Youth Activities
6:15pm Worship 7:00pm Sanctuary Choir Rehearsal 7:15pm Prayer Shawl Ministry
12 9:00am Quilting
4:45pm
Board of Stewardship
5:30pm Board of Fellowship
6:30pm Board of
Lay Ministry
13
7:00am Executive Committee
2:00pm
Golden Age Club
14
15
9:00am Sanctuary worship
9:00 & 10:30am Celebration worship
Church School 9:30am & 11:00am
10:23am L.I.F.T.
3:45pm 3-4-5 Alive
3:45pm Bible Study
6:00pm Rick Gessler Benefit
16 ]
8:30am Faithfully Fit
Deadline for December
Newsletter Articles
17
9:00Am Mary Martha circle
1:30pm Rachel Circle
5:37pm Finance Committee
6:30pm Board of Public
Relations
18
8:30am Faithfully Fit 9:45am Bible Study 4:45pm “Bright Lights” 5:00pm A la Carte 5:15pm Board of Evangelism 5:15pm “Shine”
5:15 & 6:15 Church School 6:15pm Worship 7:00pm Sanctuary Choir Rehearsal 7:15pm Gr. 6-9 Confirm. 8:15pm ReNew & 4G
19
5:30pm Parish Planning
Council
20
Faith in Film TBA
21
9:00am Quilting
22
9:00am Sanctuary worship
9:00 & 10:30am Celebration worship
Church School 9:30am & 11:00am
10:23am L.I.F.T.
3:45pm 3-4-5 Alive
3:45pm Bible Study
23 8:30am Faithfully Fit
6:00pm Decorate
Church for Christmas
7:00m Hannah Circle
7:00pm Men of the Bible
(M.O.B.) High School boys
8:00pm Uniquely You-for High
School girls
24
9:00am Assemble Parish
Newsletter
7:00pm Men’s Study
25 8:30am Faithfully Fit 9:45am Bible Study
6:15pm Thanksgiving Worship
followed by 7th Annual Ice Cream Social
at 7:15pm in South Hall
NO Church School or Youth Activities
26
THANKSGIVING DAY CHURCH OFFICES
CLOSED
27
CHURCH
OFFICES CLOSED
28
29 9:00am
Sanctuary worship
9:00 & 10:30am Celebration worship
NO Church School or Youth Activities
NO L.I.F.T.
NO 3-4-5 Alive
NO Bible Study
30 8:30am Faithfully Fit
Non-Profit Organization U.S. POSTAGE
PAID Grand Forks, ND 58201
Permit No. 270
Sharon Lutheran Church 1720 S 20th St Grand Forks, ND 58201
Phone: 701-772-3122 Email: [email protected] Website: www.sharonlutheran.org
Pastor .................................................................... Lynn Ronsberg ([email protected])
Pastor ................................................................................ John H. Fick ([email protected])
Part-time Visitation Pastor ....................... Roger Brockmeyer ([email protected]) Administrative Assistant ............................... Missy Thompson ([email protected]) Secretary ...................................................................... Molly Mohn ([email protected]) Faith Formation Director ............................................ David Berger ([email protected])
Director of Music Ministries ................................ Roxanne Gessler ([email protected])
Organist ............................................................................................... Sue Kerr & Carolyn Tunseth
Sanctuary Choir Director ................................................................................................ Tom Young
Custodian .......................................................................................................................... Dan Kuzel
Office ...................................................................................................... [email protected]
Sharon Lutheran Staff
Mailing Address Line 1 Mailing Address Line 2
Mailing Address Line 3
Mailing Address Line 4
Sunday Worship 9:00am Sanctuary
9:00 & 10:30am Celebration Hall
Wednesday Worship 6:15pm Celebration Hall
Church Office Hours Monday - Friday 8:30am to 5:00pm