june 2016 volume 70 • number 5 first...

First Lutheran Church • 327 S. Dakota Ave. • Sioux Falls, South Dakota 57104 • Phone 605-336-3734 • www.flcsf.org

In the twinkling of an eyeBy Pastor John Christopherson, Senior Pastor

Since my meditation on Sunday, May 8, there have been a number of questions raised about how we as Christians are to understand God’s wondrous promise of the resurrection, as witnessed by the Bible in general and by St. Paul in particular, especially his classic exposition in I Corinthians 15.

First of all, the Bible – including St. Paul’s witness in I Corinthians 15 – does not speak of what many understand today as “the immortality of the soul” … that is, when at death our bodies perish while our souls continue to live on or ascend to some understanding of an afterlife. For example, when Payne Stewart was killed in a plane crash, in October of 1999, we heard a number of sportscasters speaking of ‘O, Payne is now playing the beautiful back nines of heaven.’ This is neither St. Paul’s witness nor that of the Bible.

However, this confused notion of equating “the immortality of the soul” with “the resurrection of the dead” has crept into many peoples’ thinking and pervades the minds of millions, even in the Christian church. The understanding that “bodies die but souls don’t,” comes not out of the biblical or Christian tradition, but rather out of ancient Greek philosophy (cf. Plato’s Phaedo). What is presupposed in this way of thinking is that the body is evil and the soul is good. And so at death, we are freed from the prison of our corruptible body and our soul lives on into eternity. My father jokingly refers to this dualistic, Platonic view as one in which: “The shell stays on earth and the nut goes to heaven!”

Now, the biblical view is vastly different. Here we find the foundational teaching (which by the way is “in, with, and under” all of St. Paul’s witness in I Corinthians 15) that speaks to us from the very beginning of Genesis: “God saw everything that he had made, and behold, it was very good” (Genesis 1:31a). Moreover, the Psalmist witnesses: “The heavens are telling the glory of God; and the firmament proclaims God’s handiwork” (Psalm 19:1). Even the creation of humanity, as portrayed in the creation story of Adam – of God breathing life into the dust of the earth (Genesis 2:7) – or humanity being created in the image of God (Genesis 1:26) – speaks both to the goodness not only of the body but also how body and soul (hence psycho-somatic) are as inextricably part

and parcel of each other as the leaves and flames that make up a bonfire. As one Christian theologian has put it rather bluntly: “When you kick the bucket, you kick it one hundred percent. All of you. There is nothing left to go marching on with” (Fred Buechner).

Further, in the New Testament witness, Jesus himself, far from being a world-denying ascetic, was visibly upset at the death of his close friend, Lazarus. Jesus did not speak any pious clichés about what a merciful release it was. “Jesus wept” (John 11:35). And when you stop and think about it, the whole idea of the incarnation, of “the Word becoming flesh” (John 1:14), affirms the unity of body and soul. It’s not that we have a body but we are a body.

And so, rather than some automatic “immortality of the soul” – where we simply extrapolate earthly images into eternity, with the help of spacio-temporal categories – the Bible speaks of the resurrection, the resurrection of the body. It’s entirely un-natural. We don’t go on living because that’s somehow part of our natural equipment; rather, we go to our grave as dead as a doornail and are given our life back again “solely” because of God’s grace and love for us (as manifest in Jesus as the “first fruits” of the resurrection; cf. I Corinthians 15:23).

Now, here is where some further confusion comes into play. “Well, Pastor John, when you reference, especially during funeral or memorial services, the image of Hebrews 12:1 – regarding ‘the great cloud of witnesses’ still cheering us on from celestial bleachers – or Jesus, in the passion narrative according to St. Luke 23, saying to the thief on an adjoining cross, ‘Today you will be with me in paradise’ … well, I understand this to be some kind of immortality of the soul all over again? I thought the Apostles’ and Nicene Creeds affirm a belief in ‘the resurrection of the body’ when Christ finally ushers in the fullness of his kingdom. So, when is the resurrection? At death? Or is it sometime later?”

Good question. The answer: both (see John 4:23a). For Christ has already given us a resurrecting promise in our baptism; however, as you’ve pointed out, God’s kingdom has not yet finally come – as we pray, “on earth as it is in heaven.” St. Paul is at great pains to keep the unity of body and soul affirmed (I Corinthians 15:44-49) when it comes to the death-defying attempts to describe the resurrection, given the limits of human reason and its constraints of time and space (which is exactly what

–See In the twInkLIng, p 2

June 2016 Volume 70 • Number 5

First WordThe monthly newspaper of First Lutheran Church

Listen! God is CallingAn Appeal for Leadership and Mission

By Pastor Franklin Pudas, Congregation Leader

At First Lutheran Church, we are privileged to participate in some of the finest ministries and most important Christ-centered outreach among the ELCA congregations in South Dakota. We have, more than any other Synod in recent years, consistently provided a number of seminary students and candidates for rostered leadership in the church.

First Lutheran is one of 212 congregations across the South Dakota Synod now embarking on a most challenging and

important effort to greatly expand this impact both in South Dakota and across the world. The plan includes supporting ministries that touch the lives of new populations, new or renewing congregations, pastors who labor under significant education debt and encouragement to those who have been touched by God's call into ordained ministry.

During the month of June, you will learn more about this effort, called “Listen! God is Calling.” Gifts and pledges for the appeal will be received during a commitment Sunday in early July. We pray that you will be open to hear more about this ministry opportunity and commit yourself to answer this call for support. My wife Marit and I have made an advanced gift and are in the second year of our pledge. We invite you to join with us in this important effort.

Walk your way to fitness, by

Stepping into HealthBy Jana Elkins, RN, BS; Parish Nurse

Walking at least half an hour, six days a week, can cut mortality rates from heart disease in half."

– Cooper Institute for Aerobics Research

Walking is one of the simplest and least expensive options to increase your

physical activity level and improve your overall health. It is a weight-bearing exercise that helps maintain bone density and is easy on joints. Walking at a brisk pace is considered moderate-intensity physical activity, and doing this most days of the week for 30 minutes or more enables you to meet the criteria for physical activity for health benefits recommended by the American Heart Association.

Benefits of Walking• Becoming active significantly reduces your risk for

cardiovascular disease, stroke, Type 2 diabetes and obesity.• Walkingworks severalmajormuscle groups.These

muscles help pump blood back to the heart, and exercising them improves circulation, muscular endurance and dynamic balance.

• Stress relief.Walking andother exercise leads to therelease of the body's natural happy drugs - endorphins. Most people notice an improvement in mood.

Did you know that 1000 steps equal approximately a ½ mile, 5000 steps equal 2 ½ miles, and 10,000 steps equal approximately 5 miles? A daily goal for most healthy adults is 10,000 steps per day. You would be amazed at how everyday walking activities add up in the number of steps walked. Becoming and staying regularly active is one of the keys to good health and weight maintenance, and walking is an easy way to become and stay active for life.

Register in our next Stepping into Health walking program June 1 – August 31. In this program you can walk whenever and wherever you can, then log your steps and report them to our Holistic Health Team representative John Hegg. Rewards are presented monthly and at the conclusion of the summer walking session. For more info, please contact John Hegg at 339-2582. Quality pedometers ($10) are available by contacting John Hegg.

Dakota Smiles Mobile Dental ProgramComing to FLC June 13-16

The primary mission of the Dakota Smiles Mobile Dental Program is to treat children ages 0-21. The program is designed to assist people who do not have access to dental care - children who have not seen a dentist for two years or live more than 85 miles from a dentist. No child will be turned away for inability to pay for services.

The Dakota Smiles Mobile Dental Program includes two trucks that are fully-equipped dental offices on wheels. Services provided include: diagnostic and preventive

procedures, restorative procedures and tooth extractions.In the past 3 years at First Lutheran Church alone, this

program has been able to provide dental services to more than 115 children and has provided over $60,000 in diagnostic, preventative and restorative services to the under-served

children in the community!

Call First Lutheran Church today at 605-336-3734, to register a child in need!

First Word • June 20162


First Word is the monthly newspaper of First Lutheran Church in Sioux Falls, S.D. It is distributed to members of the congregation and others upon request. Opinions expressed in First Word are those of the author and are not necessarily shared by the First Lutheran Church congregation or staff. the editors of First Word reserve the right to edit submissions. Reader feedback is always welcome.

News letter submissions are due the first business day of the month. The deadline for the July issue is Wednesday, June 1. Please submit articles or questions regarding First Word to Susan Bell, Communications Coordinator at [email protected]. First Word is also available online at www.flcsf.org.

A change before usBy Peter Strommen, Executive Pastor

Change often comes with loss, even when intended for gain and done for very good reasons. Perhaps that is why the phrase “people want progress, they just don’t like change” meets with knowing smiles. It’s a perceptive observation about us human beings.

At First Lutheran we’ve been striving to discern and express just where it is and what it

is that beckons change for our congregation. In the end we realize it’s about WHO invites that change – our God. And so we begin a journey of actively seeking God’s good will and purpose for our ministry, including the willingness to change where necessary. As we know from experience, real change will eventually have to inhabit our routines and comfort zones, even our way of seeing things.

Important change is before us in a ministry that pretty much affects all areas of what we do at First Lutheran – our volunteer ministry. Last Month our Executive Committee approved a new job description for volunteer ministry. It means changes in our whole approach in how volunteers are recruited, trained, supported and developed. The new position is called “Volunteer Developer” and its approach was pioneered by a large Twin Cities congregation, Wooddale Church in Eden Prairie, Minnesota,

learning from other congregations, non-profits and corporations around the country.

Wooddale’s experience has been hugely positive because volunteers meet more new friends, do things that better fit their spiritual gifts and discover a deeper faith-connection in their service. But developing it in a congregation requires much learning and change, especially for pastors, staff and lay leaders, who are all affected. Changing to this new approach meant change for Linda Carpenter, our volunteer coordinator for the past seven years who has contributed so much to our ministry. Her schedule and plans for future retirement did not match with the new position’s immediate and long-term requirements, meaning that she has chosen to explore other avenues for service. We thank her for her work and dedication and wish her the best.

On a practical level, first steps this summer will include forming an advisory team for the new Volunteer Developer. This advisory team (as well as other soon-to-be-developed ministries) is looking for volunteers who enjoy encouraging others and connecting them to ministries that best use their gifts. If this piques your interest, give me a call, 339-1983 ext. 242 or email [email protected].

Church Council highlights: April 28, 2016If there is an item that you as a church member wish to add to an upcoming Council meeting agenda, please contact Marilyn McNeill, Business Administrator, at 339-1983 ext. 236, or [email protected]. Council agendas will be posted on a bulletin board in the Atrium and on the church website home page, flcsf.org, the weekend prior to meetings. Meetings are held the fourth Thursday of each month. First Lutheran Church members are welcome to visit meetings.

• Council was updated on First and Foremost and the correspondence leading up to the congregational celebration on May 15.

• It was decided to continue the Yoga program at First Lutheran Church – Monday at 5:30 pm and Friday noon.

• Painting in the sanctuary has been completed. The final bid for the fire suppression system should be available for the May Council meeting.

• Surveys will be sent to people who attended the 11 a.m. worship service on April 10 to get their response to the three different worship styles.

• Plans are in progress to update the landscape on the east side of the church.

• Pastor Lars Olson reported youth and family is looking at how programs might be offered during the week as well as Scripture First on Sunday morning and WOW Wednesday.

In the twinkling of an eye–continued from page 1

Christ’s resurrection has overcome!). And so we get buried all over again with “How are the dead raised? With what kind of body do they come? Or, when does this all happen?” So what does St. Paul witness? Listen again to I Corinthians 15 …

“Lo! I tell you a mystery. We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised imperishable, and we shall be changed. For this perishable nature must put on the imperishable, and this mortal nature must put on immortality. … ‘Death is swallowed up in victory. O death, where is thy victory? O death, where is thy sting?’ The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” (I Corinthians 15:51-57)In sum. St. Paul is teaching us that the resurrection is finally a

mystery; that is, it’s all in the ALL-mighty power of God’s hands. Trust in those hands, says St. Paul, because they’re the ones that raised Christ from the dead, the “first fruits” of our following suit, yes, the swaddling humanity conceived by the Holy Spirit, in which Christ clothed himself (cf. I Corinthians 15:20, 23-24; Philippians 2:5-11). Remember that you have been baptized into Christ’s death and resurrection (Romans 6), this is at the very heart

of our faith and hope as Easter people. “Keep your eyes on Jesus,” St. Paul proclaims. That’s where we need to keep our focus. And as for the “great cloud of witnesses” or “today you are with me in paradise” … that moment between death and being raised to a new life … is an interim, blessed word of assurance of God (cf. I Thessalonians 4:13-18) that for us really ends-up like trying to measure the “twinkling of an eye” – that brief moment between sleep and awakening – yet, beyond all earthly measure … thanking God that we have his saving word for us … always “held fast” in the bosom of Christ our Savior.

Perhaps a parable of life finally gets us to the point as we await the trumpet’s call (I Corinthians 15:52a) … the point of a cross and an empty tomb that breaks the spell of “time and space” … that “tick and tock” between our death and resurrection. Think of a family trip we can all remember as children … where we leave our home after work, after dark … and mom and dad drive all through the night … and when we awake we enjoy the light of the next morning, having arrived at Grandpa and Grandma’s home. All the while, we’ve been sleeping (cf. I Thessalonians 5:10), trusting that even though we know not all the details of the road ahead, we’ll awake safely at our destination. For God’s in the driver’s seat.

In the eternal now of Christ’s resurrecting love and grace …

j.r. christophersonSenior Pastor

Volunteer developer announcedHi First Lutheran faith family. I am

Jean Hoff. I'm blessed to have a wonderful daughter, Jennifer who lives in Sioux Falls and

is on staff at Anderson Elementary school. My son, Wayne passed away in 2008 but my faith assures me that Wayne has a home in heaven.

With the exception of the seven years in Des Moines, I have been a member of First Lutheran since my parents brought me to the baptismal fount. I grew up singing in choir and teaching

Sunday school. Now I'm co-president of WELCA, active in my circle, busy with Attic Treasures for the bazaar, Meals from the Heart Coordinator and have served on the Outreach board, am active at Pueblo de Dios and have coordinated Genesis Cafe.

I'm so excited to join the staff as the Volunteer Developer. This is a changing time for our congregation and being part of implementing the strategic initiatives is going to be challenging and fulfilling. I'm looking forward this new approach of building volunteer teams at First Lutheran.

We are grounded in the great commandment of Jesus.

(Matthew 22:34–40)

We are grounded in the great commission of Jesus. (Matthew 28:16–20)

We are committed to welcome and minister to all people.

We are committed to equipping people for ministry.

We are committed to service in our community and world.

We are committed to a ministry of relationship building.

We are committed to our heritage and identity as a reforming church.

We are committed to excellence in broadcast ministry.

Mission stateMent

GuidinG PrinciPles

WorshiP servicesSaturday (Christ the Victor Chapel) 5 p.m. Vespers with Communion

Sunday (Sanctuary) 8 a.m. Traditional Worship with Communion 9:30 a.m. Traditional Worship 11 a.m. Contemporary Worship 12:15 a.m. African Worship (Chapel)

Media Ministries Broadcasts

8 a.m. KELO-FM Radio (101.9) 11 a.m. KSFY (Sioux Falls),

KPRY (Pierre) and KABY (Aberdeen)

First Lutheran Church welcomes all people into the community of Jesus Christ,

equipping and sending them forth to serve and witness

in Jesus’ name.

www.youtube.com/flcsf

www.facebook.com/flcsf

@FirstLutheranSF

@firstlutheransf



Officers/Executive CommitteeBrian Aamlid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PresidentAaron ellingsen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Vice Presidenteric Severson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . treasurerDiane Atchison . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SecretaryPr. John Christopherson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Senior PastorCouncil RepresentativesAlma kallesen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Adult DiscipleshipJeff Backer . . . . . . . . . evangelism, Mission and OutreachDan hincemann . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Financial ServicesSharyl wolf . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . FLCwBrad thompson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . MediaJulia kramer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Member-at-LargeMindy Moore. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Member-at-LargeMaria neely . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Member-at-Largegayle Johnson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Caring MinistryLyle eidsness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Propertytim heinemann . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . StewardshipSuzanne willadsen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .worship and MusicBen Ready . . . . .Youth, Family and Young Adult Ministry

church council

First lutheran church directory

Pastoral/Administrative Staff (203) Rev. Dr. John Christopherson . . . . . . . . Senior Pastor (214) Rev. Katherine Olson* . . . . . . . . . . . . Associate Pastor(210) Rev. Lars Olson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Associate Pastor(242) Rev. Peter Strommen* . . . . . . . . . . . . executive Pastor(202) Rev. James Christopherson* . . . . . . Visitation Pastor(202) Rev. David Houck* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Visitation Pastor(202) Rev. Roger Noer* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Visitation Pastor(202) Rev. Dennis Tranberg* . . . . . . . . . . . Visitation Pastor(202) Rev. Dave Johnson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . emeritus(202) Donna Jahr . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Secretary to the Pastors(236) Marilyn Mcneill . . . . . . . . . . . . .Church Administrator

Evangelism, Mission and Outreach Ministries((202) Jean Hoff* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Volunteer Developer

Financial Services(211) LaVonne wolf . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Financial Specialist

Media Ministries(252) Susan Bell . . . . . . . . . Communications Coordinator(213) Jared Callahan* . . . . . . . Communications Assistant(236) John Cerwinske* . . . . . . . . .Sound board Technician(213) Kathy Hein* . . . . . . . . .Broadcast technical Director (213) David Palmer* . . . . . . .Broadcast technical Director(213) Hons Oakland* . . . . . .Broadcast technical Director(213) George Roberts-Oakland* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Broadcast technical Director(213) Tanner Wangsness* . .Broadcast technical Director

Caring Ministries(237) Jana Elkins* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Parish nurse(262) Arlene Bich* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . wedding Coordinator (262) Nancy Nolop* . . . . . . . . . . . . . wedding Coordinator

Property and Administrative Services(201) Dave wilson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Facility Manager(201) Rick East . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Custodian (201) Jeff hartnett . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Custodian(201) Judi Mueller* . . . . Receptionist/Member Secretary(201) Cleo Sorensen* . . Receptionist/Member Secretary(201) Pat Svennes* . . . . Receptionist/Member Secretary

Worship and Music Ministries(260) Zachary Rygiel . . . . . . . . . Director of Music/Organist,

FLYght and Jubilant Singers Director(261) Shirley Barlow* . . . . . . . . . .Administrative Assistant(261) Donna Hamilton* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Accompanist (261) Dr. Jerry Hanson* . . . . . Director of Music emeritus(261) Ali Hoffman* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Belle Campane and

Good Vibrations Director(261) Marcia Kittelson* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Organist emerita(261) Bonnie Lindgren* . . . . . . . . . . . . Carol Choir Director(261) Dr. Paul Nesheim* . . . . . . . Adult Choir Director and

women’s Choir Director(261) Larry Olson* . .Contemporary worship Coordinator((261) Mary Ryrholm* . . . . . . . . . . . Agape Ringers Director(261) Sue Severson* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Accompanist(261) Pam Sonnichsen* . . . . . . Instrumental Coordinator

Youth and Family Ministries(204) Marnie Dahle Backer . . . . . . . .Director of Youth and

Family Ministries(238) Nancy Henrichsen* . . Director of Children’s Ministries(228) Gayle Johnson* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . nursery Attendant(204) Heather Smith* . . . . . . . . . . . .Interim Youth Director(204) Bailey Nelson* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Summer Intern(228) Annel Jolo* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . nursery Attendant(228) Sarah Rasmussen* . . . . . . . . . . . . nursery Attendant(228) Irma Rodriguez Leon* . . . . . . . . . nursery Attendant(204) Eric Sather* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Interim Youth Director(204) Luke Wanous* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Summer Intern(228) kristy Zuraff . . . . . . . . . . . . .Administrative Assistant

*Part-time

Main Phone Line: . . . . . . (605) 336-3734Direct Dial: . . . . . . . . . . . . (605) 339-1983Toll-Free: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (800) 425-9899Fax: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (605) 336-8370Emergency Cell: . . . . . . . (605) 323-7667Custodian Cell: . . . . . . . . (605) 351-8281Project CAR: . . . . . . . . . . . (605) 332-2777

To reach a staff member directly, dial 339-1983 and the phone extension listed in parentheses.

Scripture lessonsRevised Common Lectionary

June 51 kings 17:8-16, (17-24) or

1 kings 17:17-24Psalm 146 or Psalm 30galatians 1:11-24Luke 7:11-17

June 121 kings 21:1-10, (11-14), 15-21a or

2 Samuel 11:26 - 12:10, 13-15Psalm 5:1-8 or Psalm 32galatians 2:15-21Luke 7:36 - 8:3

June 191 Kings 19:1-4, (5-7), 8-15a or

Isaiah 65:1-9Psalm 42 and 43, or Psalm 22:19-28galatians 3:23-29Luke 8:26-39

June 262 kings 2:1-2, 6-14 or

1 Kings 19:15-16, 19-21Psalm 77:1-2, 11-20 or Psalm 16galatians 5:1, 13-25Luke 9:51-62

adult disciPleshiP

Senior LuncheonTuesday, June 14, 2016Noon - Fellowship Hall

All First Lutheran senior adults and their friends are invited to join us for a catered meal served at noon followed by a program. The menu is chicken and wild rice hot dish, corn and roll. The program will be by Pr. Franklin Pudas, "Listen! God is Calling!"

Please RSVP no later than Wednesday, June 7, by calling the church office, 336-3734. If you need a ride to the Senior lunch please call Project CAR, 332-2777, no later than 9 a.m. on Monday, June 13.

Gain without painBy Pastor Lars Olson, Associate Pastor

“Being ignorant of the righteousness that comes from God, and seeking to establish their own” – Romans 10:3

I often hear about people trying to ‘find Jesus.’ It is like someone told them that everything they ever wanted was on the other side of a wall. My bet is that even if you were skeptical, you would at least go and see how high the wall was. It might be little more than a short hurdle, and with just a little effort you could possibly have it all. Or if it were a bit higher you might have to do some training, deal with your fear of heights, and then be able

to climb over it. Or perhaps you’ve been disappointed trying to go over things and you’ve decided to go through the wall. No pain no gain, right? Isn’t it worth it to get everything you ever wanted?

It may sound strange, but this is just what Romans 10:3 is speaking of. Humans want to be righteous, need to justify existing. We never stop seeking that which validates us. It is everything we dream of and hope for and in our self-deluded dreams we just need to train ourselves up a bit, or try a little harder, or find a way to the other side and we’ll be alright! Right? Well, St. Paul in his letter to the Romans calls this being ‘ignorant of the righteousness that comes from God’ by trying to establish our own righteousness, or what is more often called ‘self righteousness.’

The problem with self righteousness is that you can never be sure you’ve made it to the other side. Your hands and feet may be tired, you may have done a whole lot, but even when you think you’ve arrived, it doesn’t last long. You realize you haven’t gone far enough to have everything you want. There is always just a bit more to gain.

What’s worse, trying to establish your own righteousness makes you blind, deaf, and too busy to hear what God is saying to you. The promise of Christ is that his righteousness is right here with you. He has overcome the hurdles, broken down the barriers, and fulfilled the law, all for you - so that you would stop trying to find him, and just be his. But as long as you think you need to make your way to him, then you’re going to be hurling yourself against that wall instead of believing that he already is with you.

Yet to stop seeking to be right in yourself would be to give up on the most human struggle. It would be losing your mind. It would be forfeiting everything you’ve worked for. It would mean living not by your own power, but by faith in God’s word to you in Christ Jesus. It would mean “suffering the loss of all things in order to gain Christ and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but one that comes through faith in Christ, the righteousness from God based on faith. I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the sharing of his sufferings by becoming like him in his death, if somehow I may attain the resurrection from the dead.”(Philippians 3:8-11)

That’s it. Not that we find Jesus, but that we are found in Jesus Christ. There, in him, we are righteous, holy, Children of God, not by our struggles and achievements, but by his gospel promise to us.

Pastor Lars

As the school year comes to an end, so does the first year of Scripture First. Thanks to all the teachers, shepherds, roamers, hosts, parents, students, and helpers for all your patience, sharing, and learning as this new ministry went through some significant growing pains. We learned a lot this year, and are already making plans to make next year even better. This summer we will be recruiting and training volunteers, and developing new resources for home and small group use. Watch for more details throughout the summer.

If you missed any lessons, you can find them online at scripturefirst.org

Summer Forums will be held in the Gathering Room on Sunday mornings. The topics will involve community events as well as ministries that partner with First Lutheran Church. Come get involved, get informed and learn about the wide ministry of the Church of Jesus Christ.

June 5 | St. Dysmas | Pr. Bob Chell | 9:30 & 11 a.m. St. Dysmas is a Lutheran congregation inside the South Dakota Penitentiary, bringing the good news of Jesus Christ to those inside the walls. Many First Lutheran members have taken the opportunity to visit and worship at St. Dysmas. Pastor Bob Chell will be here to talk about this amazing ministry.

June 12 | Bread for the World | Nancy Olson | 9:30 & 11 a.m. Bread for the World advocates for the basic human need for food around the world. Each year First Lutheran Church participates in Bread for the World's national letter writing campaign to encourage, advocate, and support this important work. Come and hear First Lutheran Church member Nancy Olson and her team talk about current needs and how you can get involved.

June 19 | Listen! God is Calling! | Pr. Franklin Pudas | 9:30 a.m. The South Dakota Synod of the ELCA is campaigning to help seminary students, congregations, and the whole church raise and support new pastors and leaders for the church. Pastor Franklin Pudas will share how deeply this appeal is needed to strengthen the church for future generations.

June 26 | Luther House of Study | Sarah Stenson | 9:30 & 11 a.m. Luther House of Study provides resources for seminarians, pastors and congregations. Next year they will contribute monthly newsletter articles and weekly bulletin notices to educate Lutherans as the 500th anniversary of the Reformation is celebrated.

"the promise of Christ is that his

righteousness is right here with you."

www.youtube.com/flcsf

www.flcsf.org

www.facebook.com/flcsf



carinG Ministry

June special offering envelopesBy Kelsey Aamlid, Board Member

There are approximately 800 million hungry people in our world today, about one out of every ten (elca.org). This month’s special offering will go toward World Hunger Ministries. Organizations such as ELCA World Hunger, Bread for the World, and Feed My Starving Children strive to see that every man, woman and child is well-nourished.

ELCA World Hunger works through congregations in the United States to reach communities in need around the world by providing solutions to the root cause of poverty and hunger. They dig wells, build health clinics, provide microloans and educate populations about additional sustainable solutions. They not only fund development projects to assist our brothers and sisters in need, but they also engage ELCA members in education and advocacy to change the systems that perpetuate poverty.

Feed My Starving Children takes a more immediate approach by sending hand-packed meals formulated for malnourished children to partners around the world who operate orphanages, schools and clinics. Their vision is to “eliminate starvation in children throughout the world by helping to instill compassion in people to hear and respond to the cries of those in need.”

Bread for the World is an institution that provides nonpartisan policy analysis on hunger and offers strategies and education

t o p o l i c y makers and o p i n i o n l e a d e r s i n the United States. The b o a r d o f Evangelism, Mission and Outreach is offering support to Bread for the World this month through an annual Offering of Letters. We encourage you to join us in Reformation Hall on June 12 between services to write a letter to our representatives in Washington encouraging them to increase funding for the nutrition and health of mothers, newborns and young children. Please see Nancy Olson’s article entitled “Survive and Thrive” on page 8.

Praise God for organizations such as these which provide immediate resources to those in need as well as educational opportunities to increase understanding and compassion. Praise God for the congregation of First Lutheran and other churches that generously give to these missions, and praise God for opportunities to help our hungry brothers and sisters around the world. Please remember these wonderful ministries in your prayers, and consider joining us for the Offering of Letters on June 12. Thank you for your support!

Births: "May the Lord give you increase, both you and your children." – Psalm 114:15Dec. 24, '15 Wilmilda Q. Farhat, daughter of William and Joetta FarhatFeb. 10 Elin Grace Erie, daughter of Andrew and Sara ErieMarch 31 Ethan Patrick Mueller, son of Derek and Sandra MuellerApril 5 Kaleb Ely Abram Merry, son of David and Amanda Merry April 20 Blakely Lynn Jensen, daughter of Max and Maren Jensen

Baptisms: "Go ... make disciples ... baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son and Holy spirit." – Matthew 28:19

April 10 Andrew John Leiseth, son of Soren and Brenda Leiseth

Weddings: “So they are no longer two, but one flesh. What therefore God has joined together, let no one put asunder.” – Matthew 19:6

April 23 Celina Kirstein and Ryan HoffmanApril 23 Cali Portinga and Seth JohnsonApril 30 Jessica Dahlke and Trevor Cartner

Deaths: “Death is swallowed up in victory ... thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” – 1 Corinthians 15:57

April 5 Deborah A. Hors April 22 Robert L. GoosApril 8 Doris R. Nelson April 28 Vernon A. Long

Cared for by God, we care for othersBy Pastor Katherine Olson, Associate Pastor of Caring Ministries

A s I b e c o m e acclimated to my new role within the realm of Caring Ministries, I have been re-familiarizing myself with some of the pastoral care books that guided me through

seminary and my early years of ministry preparation. One of these is “Christian Caregiving, a Way of Life,” by Rev. Dr. Kenneth Haugk, a title and author that Stephen Ministers in our congregation will recognize. One section of this book, dealing with the distinctiveness of Christian care, really caught my attention. Pastor Haugk writes:

“Anyone involved in caring needs to ask, ‘Why do I do what I do?’ For Christians, the answer to this question is quite a distinctive one. About 2,000 years ago, God identified himself fully with our humanness. He sent his Son into the world to live and breathe, to suffer and love, to minister and care – and finally to die. Jesus’ death appeared to be just another human tragedy. But death could not hold down the one who is Life.

Rising triumphantly from the grave, Jesus established his church.

Through his church Jesus continues to extend his ministry of love and care for people. The love of Christ … is the most basic motivation for all Christian caring. This is summarized in 1 John 4:19: “We love because he first loved us.”

The distinctiveness of Christian care, then, lies not only in what we do, but in why we do it. As the message of God’s love grips Christians, we are filled by the Holy Spirit, who moves clay-footed Christians to use our God-given gifts for others. He makes cared-for Christians into caring Christians.”

In the next few months, I’ll be giving a lot of thought to certain programs of our church, as we strive to foster and deepen a sense of caring community here at First Lutheran. But any sort of ministry programming can get off track if we do not continually remind ourselves of why we do what we do. Haugk’s proclamation of the Gospel helps to focus me as I go about this work…but couldn’t his words guide and encourage each one of us as we care for those whom God has placed in our midst? “He makes cared-for Christians into caring Christians,” yes indeed. Make it so, Lord Jesus!

Youth create special gifts First Lutheran's visitation pastors were blessed to receive a gift of handmade ornaments from the sixth grade confirmation students, which were passed along to some of our homebound members. Lexy Johnson, interim youth staff, writes: "Youth used creativity, love, kindness, and passion in creating these unique and meaningful ornaments. They wrote their own prayers on these crafts and spoke directly from their hearts. They placed their pictures on them so that wherever these ornaments find a home, there will be a smiling face present to remind our members that they are being thought of and prayed for." Thank you to Lexy and the sixth grade confirmation students for these tokens of prayer and love!

evanGelisM, Mission & outreach Ministry

Visit the Caring Ministries webpage at

flcsf.org/caring-ministries for event listings, forums,

resources, volunteer opportunities and more.

First Lutheran's NAMI teamSeventeen First Lutheran members and friends participated in the annual Sioux

Falls NAMI Walk on Saturday, May 22. Team organizer, Sandy Holloman, said "it was a beautiful morning for the walk and 5k run." NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) is a national, grassroots, non-profit organization devoted to building better lives for those affected by mental illness. The team raised $1,350 for NAMI South Dakota. Thanks all those who walked, donated or supported the First Lutheran NAMI Walks team.

Newbie ForumNewcomers to First Lutheran Church sometimes have questions about our

programming, beliefs or simply seek to develop better connections in the community. The Newbie Forum, held monthly, offers a time for newcomers (aka “newbies”) to informally connect with pastors, staff, and active members of the church. The Newbie Forum is offered as a supplement to our new member classes held each spring and fall. Our next Newbie Forum will be held Sunday, June 12, from 8:30 – 9:15 a.m. in Reformation Hall. A table will be specially marked for newbies! Questions, please contact Pastor Katherine Olson at [email protected] or 339-1983 ext. 214.



youth, FaMily and younG adult Ministries

Youth & Family Staff updatesStarting on May 1, Marnie Dahle Backer began serving as First

Lutheran Church’s Director of Youth & Family Ministries. This new position allows Marnie to give oversight and direction to staff and programming to make all the various ministries work in a more coordinated fashion. The direction put forth in the “First & Foremost” strategic plan requires more day-to-day direction and planning across age groups and Marnie’s experiences and abilities are well suited for the new challenges.

The search for our next Youth Minister is in full swing, and we hope to have this new position filled before school resumes in the fall. While we continue to search, three new, part-time youth staffers have been hired to cover the program needs. Please keep the staff in your prayers!

Lexy Johnson We bid a fond farewell and bon voyage to Lexy, who just graduated from Augustana. After working at NeSoDak and Bible Camp she heads off to Australia for the year! She will be a member of Young Adults in Global Mission through the ELCA. This is an amazing opportunity for Lexy to bring her passion for ministry and God’s people across the globe. We lift her up in prayer that she will have an awesome adventure sharing God’s. We are so grateful for her ministry this past year. What a privilege it was for our youth ministry to have her serve here. “Cheers!” and “G’day mate!”

Heather Smith – Interim Youth Director"“I work at Covington Heights Golden Living Center as a certified

occupational therapist. I am married to Adam and we have 2 children: Reed (6) and Annika (4). We are all quite involved at First Lutheran. I started working with the junior and senior high youth in the Fall of 2015 and look forward to spending more time with the youth this summer. Something that excites me about youth ministry is that the youth are so talented and intelligent and FUN! It is a blessing to be a part of their world for a few hours a week and to play a role in their faith formation at this age. A fun fact about me is that I grew up in the United Methodist church with a major in religion and a minor in youth ministry. After two years I changed my major physical therapy. So… to be ministering to people at my full time job in healthcare and to be working with the youth is the best of both worlds!"

Eric Sather – Interim Youth Director Eric (pictured here with Peter Christopherson)continues with us this summer focusing on the high school youth ministry. His presence keeps a nice continuity and we are so appreciative of him being here. A fun fact about Eric is he has run three full marathons and two half marathons.

Bailey Nelson – Summer Intern"I am from Beresford, SD where my mom, dad and

two younger siblings (and a sassy wiener dog) live. I just finished my freshman year at Augustana University where I am studying Government and International Affairs, and Religion. Along with being in theatre, I also work at Youth Enrichment Services as an after school teacher in Brandon where I get to hang out with 65 elementary students daily! Youth Ministry excites me because I get to meet people who are at all different walks of life. Each individual brings a crazy, beautiful piece of themselves to the group and I learn so much from them. One fun fact about myself is that I got my black belt in tae-kwon-do in second grade."

Luke Wanous – Summer Intern"I just finished my second year at Augustana University.

I am a Business Administration/ Communication double major and hope to be a Hospital Administrator some day. I am currently on the Augie football team playing linebacker on defense. I will be in Sioux Falls all summer working out with the team, as well as working out at the Harmodon baseball field complex as a supervisor. My parents are Doug and Katie, and I have one sister, Millie, who will be coming to Augie next year. I am originally from Owatonna MN, where I was a three sport captain in football, basketball and baseball, as well as being a part of student council, NHS, DECA and some other organizations. I am excited to get to know the youth here in Sioux Falls and connect with them and get them excited about the church. A fun fact about myself is that I love golfing even though I am pretty average at it. I look forward to becoming a part of the First Lutheran community."

Middle School Events

Middle School Summer Kick-off Bonfire is Saturday, June 4, 7:30 – 10 p.m.Open Gym: 5th-8th Grade Wednesdays, June 8 – July 13, 9 – noon; Wednesdays, July 20 – Aug. 17, 5:30 – 8:30 p.m.

5th-8th Grade All-Day Affair – Wednesdays, June 15 & July 6, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

6th–8th Grade Water Day: Monday, June 20, 1 – 4 p.m.

6th–8th Lock-in: Friday, July 8 – Saturday, July 9 6th–8th Sky Zone: Friday, July 22, 5 – 9 p.m.

High SchoolYouth Group Bonfires: June 8, 22; July 6, 20; Aug. 3, 17, 8 – 10:30 p.m. Locations TBA.

Mystery Night: June 15, 6 – 11 p.m.

4:12 Young AdultsShrimp Boil: June 16, 6 - 8:30 at Jeff and Marnie Backer's home. Cost: $5.

Strawbale Winery: July 7, 5 – 8 p.m. Meet at Strawbale

Backyard BBQ: Aug. 21, 6 – 8 p.m. Seth & Sarah Muller's home.

Family EventsFamily Open Gym, Saturdays 10:15 a.m. – noonFLC at the Canaries – June 9, 7:05 p.m. Tailgate 5 – 7 p.m. Tickets at the Youth & Family Office

Sertoma/Outdoor Campus: June 15, 5:30-8 p.m.FLC Parking Lot Potluck: Sunday, July 10, festivities begin at 11 a.m., potluck at noon

Upper Tuthill Park: July 13, 5:30-8 p.m.Frank Olson Park: Aug. 10, 5:30-8 p.m.

heather (right) receives her new office key from Lexy.

June 2016Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat

1 2 3 4Family Open GymMiddle School Bonfire

5 Graduation 6 7 85th–8th Grade Open GymHigh School Bonfire

9FLC – Canaries Game &Tailgating

10 11Family Open Gym

12 13 14 155th–8th Grade All-Day AffairHigh School – Mystery

NightSertoma/Outdoor Campus*

164:12 – Shrimp Boil

17 18Family Open Gym

19 Father’s Day 20Middle School Water Day

21 225th–8th Grade Open Gym High School Bonfire

23 24 25Family Open Gym

26 27 28 295th–8th Grade Open Gym

30 Notes:

VBS

Outlaw

Metigoshe

Flathead Joy Ranch

Children

Family

Young Adult

Youth

*Family Fun Nights at the park: All ages are welcome. Supervidion is provided, but parents are encouraged to attend. Small snack provided.

July 2016Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat

1 2Family Open Gym

3 4 5 65th–8th Grade All-Day AffairHigh School Bonfire

74:12 Strawbale Winery

8Middle School Lock-in →

9← Middle School Lock-inFamily Open Gym

10FLC Parking Lot Party

11 12 135th–8th Grade Open GymUpper Tuthill Park*

– Frisbee Golf


17 18 19 205th–8th Grade Open Gym High School Bonfire

21 22Middle School – Sky Zone

23Family Open Gym

24 25 26 275th–8th Grade Open Gym


31 Notes:

Flathead Joy Ranch

Colombia

Colombia

Colombia

NeSoDak

Children

Family

Young Adult

Youth


August 2016Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat

1 2 35th–8th Grade Open GymHigh School Bonfire


7 8 9 105th–8th Grade Open GymFrank Olson Park*


14 15 16Wild Water West

175th–8th Grade Open GymHigh School Bonfire

18 19 20

214:12 Backyard BBQ

22 23 24 25 26 27

28Worship in the Park

29 30 31

Children

Family Young Adult

Youth

Day Camp




First lutheran church WoMen

Women of First Lutheran are invited

Every woman of First Lutheran is a member of the Women of the Evangelical Lutheran church of America (WELCA). As a member you can help with ongoing projects we support. Everyday women of First Lutheran are helping people and agencies in the Sioux Falls area, South Dakota, in the United States and across the world. Little, everyday things we often toss, can be put to good use. Check the list below and see if there are household and personal care items you can donate.

• PopcantabsfortheRonaldMcDonaldHouse• Cancelledstamps(clipto½inchallaround)• Eyeglasses• Forhealthkitsandlayettes–wrappedbarsoap• Baby care kits – diapers, undershirts, sleepers,

gowns, receiving blankets, baby sweaters and sweatshirts, socks and hand towels

• Personalcarekits–new(inthepackage)combs,nail clippers, toothbrushes, bath size towels

• Forthequilters–oldsheets,blankets,mattresspads,fabric and yarn

Everything (except items for the quilters) may be brought to the Welcome Center. Items for the quilters should be brought to the Quilt Service Center – lower level beneath the south stairs.

For more information, please contact Dorothy Mikkelson, 339-1469.

Aging Faithfully conferenceSpirituality and well-being in the second half of life

July 26, 2016 • 8 a.m. – 3:15 p.m.Augustana University Elmen CenterTickets are $25 (before 7/19) then $35Featured speaker: Sister Joan ChittisterOur lives and faith look different in the second chapter of life.

There are new opportunities, and many experiences behind us, too. You may find yourself asking:

• WhatisGod’spurposeformeinthisstageoflife?• Whatdoesfaithfulnesslooklikenow?• HowdoItrustHimandhavecourageasseasonschange?• Howcanmyfaithremainvibrantandstrong?• HowcanIhelpotherswhofindthemselvesinthisstageoflife?Whether you are an older adult, you work or care for an older adult,

or you are simply interested in the topic, we invite you to this day of reflection and discussion featuring best-selling author and speaker Sister Joan Chittister. We invite guests of all faiths.

About Aging FaithfullyThe third annual Aging Faithfully Conference brings together some of the best voices across religious traditions to

discuss how faith and well-being are different in the second half of life, and how that can be celebrated in daily living. The first conference featured Lutheran theologian Dr. Martin E. Marty; author and poet Kathleen Norris who spoke at the 2015 conference. The Conference is a partnership of Augustana University, The South Dakota Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, The Evangelical Lutheran Good Samaritan Society and is sponsored by Thrivent Financial.

About Sr. Joan ChittisterSister Joan Chittister is an articulate social analyst and influential religious leader of this age. For more than 35 years

she has dedicated herself to advocating for universal recognition of the critical questions impacting the global community. Courageous, passionate and charged with energy, she is a much sought after speaker, commentator, counselor and clear voice across all religions.

Read more about the Conference at: http://sdsynod.org/aging-faithfully/

Angels Among UsFirst in a series celebrating the 80th anniversary of the FLCW Bazaar

Compiled by Kathy Stelzer, FLCW Historian, with Sandy Fink and Jean Colon, Bazaar Co-chairs

The First Lutheran Church Women (FLCW) are talented women who work diligently in all aspects of our endeavors at First Lutheran Church. Circle meetings, serving for funerals, facilitating meals and quilting are among ongoing events; and, with the selected theme, plans have already begun for the 80th Annual FLCW Bazaar on Saturday, Nov. 5. As plans materialize, we invite men and women, young and old, to join us with fresh new ideas and assistance in what we already do. Please leave your name at the First Lutheran Information Desk or call Co-chairs, Sandy Fink, 339-2933, or Jean Colon, 334-7718.

Let’s look back at how it all started. Early records tell us that in the fall of 1871, a group of Norwegian Lutherans came to what was then the village of Sioux Falls to make their home. They found a company of soldiers stationed to protect the inhabitants. At a later date, recorded by Mrs. Stanley Estenson, Mrs. Tina Solie tells of her arrival to the area as a new bride. "I tell you it was not much of a place here in those days. When we got out of the bobsleds and looked around I said: ‘Where is Sioux Falls?’ ‘Well – it is right here!’ I was told. All I saw were a few small houses and shanties and the old barracks at the foot of what is now 8th Street and

Phillips Avenue, 13 houses in all. The population was probably 150. Below the falls was always a camp of Indians – sometimes as many as 300. They used to peep in from outside, putting their faces flat against the window before they came in. They always begged for coffee and tobacco. But they never harmed us. There was not much going on in those days. On Sunday afternoons we used to go down to the falls and sit on the stones and watch the whirl and merry dance of the water; or go down to the Indian camp and watch them. They lived in teepees and were regular blanket Indians. In the trees hung hides and meat to be dried, yes, even the intestines and other bad-smelling things. The dirt and filth was great. But the little round-eyed papooses seemed to thrive anyway, and their mothers showed them off with great pride.” Sandy Fink and her mother, Dorothy Grevlos, remember Grandpa Melvin Hanson, a charter member of First Lutheran, giving a similar description of life with the Indians.

“The following year, five women organized a Sewing Society; Mrs. Martha Ovren and her two daughters, Mrs. Rena Thompson and Mrs. Tina Solie, Mrs. Andrew Peterson and Mrs. John Henjum. The women met every two weeks and paid five cents each. Mrs. Ovren, being the oldest member, had charge of the devotions. The women sewed and knitted and a very simple lunch was served – sometimes only bread, syrup and coffee. These meetings were an inspiration to them as they shared their joys and sorrows. The officers were President and Treasurer, who each served for a term of six months.

The group’s aim was to stimulate interest in religious matters so that a congregation would be organized and a pastor called. The first service was held at the Van Eps Hall Nov. 21, 1873, by Rev. Emil Christenson of Vermillion. The women agreed to pay the rent, which was $1 for each service, and they provided their own fuel."

From these humble gatherings of hard working frontier women we are blessed with always changing ongoing efforts of the First Lutheran Church Women to be of Christian Service. Strong and enduring friendships continue to this day. Philippians 1:3-5 says, “I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mine making request for you all with joy, for your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now.” Both men and women work at projects at our church voluntarily and the fellowship they enjoy is an extra bonus. Is it not the Biblical example? One of the FLCW co-chairs, Sharyl Wolf, said it best, “Humbling ourselves, in Christ, loving others.”

Mrs. tina Solie



Gifts to the Foundation in memory of:Ruby Mutch: Orrin & Karen Anderson, Lois Boyce, Phyllis Day, Lyle & Jean Eidsness, Jean Ellwein, Russ & Carol Greenfield, Dorothy Grevlos, Don & Joyce Helberg, Carl & Janet Naessig, John & Jane Paulson, Don & Flo Toft

Gifts to the Foundation - Youth Ministry in memory ofRuby Mutch: Betty Pfeifle

Gift to General Fund in memory of:Ruby Mutch: Scott & Diane Atchison

Gift to Caring Ministry in memory ofRuby Mutch: Kathaleen Ross

Gift to Media Ministry in memory of:Janet Engen: Bud & Barb EntringerRobert Goos: Barb Matson, Bud & Barb EntringerEsther Heeren: Alan & Penny ThorsonDeborah Horst: Jim & DeAnn Clark, Darlene Colwill, Bob & Betty GednalskeDon Jensen: Jeff & Edna HusmanMahlon Johnson: Phyllis DayConnie Leimbach: First Lutheran Church WomenBud Long: Phyllis DayRuby Mutch: Brian & Denise Aamlid, Larry & Marilyn Anderson, Deaun Anderson, Gary & Shirley Barlow, Doug & Gaye Bell, Jerry & Jan Bork, Gerald & Patricia Bruget, Mark & Jean Bubak, David & Mary Jo Christensen, Tom & Ginny Christopherson, Pr. Jim & Dorothy Christopherson, Keel & Patty Coddington, Eloise Elmen, Don & Judy Erickson, Mary Jane Fenn, Jim & Sandy Fink, Richard & Barbara Friess, Greg & JJ Gohl, Gretchen Graves, Sally Graff, Richard Gregerson, Dennis & Louise Griffin, Joan Vaugh Gross, Joel &

Susan Hagen, Frank & Joan Hansen, Roger Haugo, Eric & Julie Hedlund, Pete & Marilyn Hegg, Jeff & Sarah Herbert, Jake & Norma Hofer, Mary Ann Hohman, James Hopkins, Nancy Hoskins, Richard & Mary Jo Jaqua, Ken & Karen Kahley, Richard & Alma Kallesen, Ken Kessinger, Karen Kirkeby, Emil & Carol Knapp, Dennis & Mary Ann Knutson, Ben & Joan Koether, Scott & Marilyn Korsten, Al & Sally Larimer, Leland & Carol Larson, Richard Lauer, Carol Lerdal, Marvin & Deborah Lovro, Greg & Mary Magnuson, Joan Manolis, Barb Matson, S.F. & V.L. McCarthy, Patrick & Peggy McNamara, Marilyn McNeill, Lori Melemseter, Herb & Dorothy Mikkelson, James & Mindy Moore, Ken & Judy Morstad, Ardeen & Cindy Mulder, Dave & Linda Munson, Brian & Kathleen Murphy, Shaun & Colette Nicholson, Robert & Kris O'Connel, John Odney, Howard & Lou Ann Paulson, Suellen Payne, John Peckham, Edward & Charlotte Peters, Martin & Iley Joyce Petereit, Doug & Louise Peterson, Truman & Nancy Phelan, Wesley & Valerie Putnam, Mae Ranschau, Dr James & Deborah Reynolds, Lottie Rollag, William Rossing, Roger & Jan Schneekloth, Greg & Karen Schultz, Joyce Sells, Tom & Mary Simmons, Mike & Gloria Simpson, Arlys Stanga, Bonnie Stavig, Dave & Shirley Stenseth, Lloyd & Dorothy Stivers, Gayle Syverson, Doug & Carol Uthe, Mark & Cintra Utter, Bob & Marilyn Van Demark, John & Deborah Vander Woude, Bill Westerdahl, Daryl & Mary Wierda, Jon & Jacquelyn Williams, Joe & Kristen Zueger Doris Nelson: Lillian Carlson, Pr. Jim & Dorothy Christopherson, Marilyn Eikanger, Jake & Norma Hofer, Richard & Alma Kallesen, Roger & Bev Lamp, Gene & Marlene Linton, Barb Matson, Pr. Leroy & Elaine Nevin, Howard & Lou Ann Paulson, Eileen Quanbeck, Lottie Rollag, Pr. Paul & Lorna Sanders, Mike & Gloria Simpson, Dave & Shirley StensethGus Okland: Phyllis Day

Hazel Peterson: Barb MatsonOpal Westerdahl: Dave & Shirley StensethArnold Zueger: Al & Sally Larimer

Gift to Choir in memory of: Doris Nelson: Larry & Marilyn Anderson

Gift to Music Ministry in memory of: Ruby Mutch: Robert & Margaret Larson, Julianne SimkoDoris Nelson: Gary & Sandra Earl, Lyle & Jean Eidsness, Don & Judy Erickson, Frank & Joan Hansen, Jean Hoff, Mary Ann Hohman, John & Rhea McBride, Carl & Janet Naessig, Donald & Donna Stee, Marv Widmann

Gift to Organ Fund in memory of: Ruby Mutch: John & Marcia Kittelson

Gift to Piano Lab in memory of:Ruby Mutch: Ed & Eunice Mansfield

Gift to FLCW Quilters in memory of: Gus Okland: Mae Ranschau

KELO broadcast sponsored:March 6: In honor of Ed & Eunice Mansfield’s 65th anniversary by their children; Meg Mansfield, Lisa & Dave Jarvis, Paul and Kyle Mansfield.March 13: In loving memory of Mrs. Marie Steen, made possible through earnings of the bequest of her daughter, L. Inez Rognley, to the First Lutheran Church Foundation.March 20: In memory of Norman Salem, who would have celebrated his birthday on March 19, by his wife, Doris Salem; daughters, Karla and Karen; and their families.March 27, Easter: In honor of Elaine Johnson, Mary Ellen Lantis, and Rick & Judy Berdahl and their families by Mike and Gloria Simpson.April 10: By the family of Lynn and Helen Loomis. Lynn and Helen would have celebrated their 79th wedding anniversary on June 10. Helen would have celebrated her birthday on June 7. April 17: In memory of Leonard Martinek, whose 94th birthday would have been March 31, by his twin sons Craig and Carl Martinek and family.April 24: In honor of Erle ‘Terry’ Roisum and celebration of his 80th birthday today by his daughters, Robin Mellegaard, Michelle Ahrens, Terri Marinaro and Tiffany Roisum-Zeller.

KSFY telecast fully sponsored:March 6: In celebration of Paul & Donna Willadsen's 62nd wedding anniversary on March 5 and of being members of FLC for 82 years.

March 13: in loving celebration of the memory of David and Susan Lankford. It is made possible by earnings through a gift by her family and friends to the First Lutheran Church Foundation.March 20: In memory of Norman Salem, who would have celebrated his birthday on March 19, by his wife, Doris Salem; daughters, Karla and Karen; and their families.March 27, Easter: In celebration of life and in memory of Opal Westerdahl by her husband, Bill and their children, Julie & Keith Dykstra, Dave & Lynn Westerdahl, and their families with funds made available through gifts from friends and family to Media Ministry in Opal's memory.April 3: In loving memory Herman Lerdal by his family.April 10: By Joe and Jan Barron in memory of Ben and Myrtle Sorensen and Darrel and Ramona Barron. Both couples would have celebrated their 75th wedding anniversary this year.April 24: In memory of Jack and Amanda Leaders through a special gift to the First Lutheran Church Foundation from Jack and Amanda Leaders.

KSFY closed captioning sponsored: March 6: In memory of Dr. Doris Eggers Huseboe; her parents, Delbert and Erna Eggers; and her grandparents, Claus and Mary Eggers and Richard and Lena Schneider. Funds for this have been made available through a gift to the First Lutheran Church Foundation.

March 13: In honor of Vivian Wegner's 101st birthday on March 10, by Elaine Berdahl Johnson, Mary Ellen Berdahl Lantis and Richard Berdahl.March 27: In loving memory of Albert & Esther Berdahl by Elaine Johnson, Mary Ellen Lantis, Richard Berdahl and families.April 17: In memory of Cora Boneff through earnings from a bequest she made to the First Lutheran Church Foundation.

Sponsorships available: Worship broadcasts are made possible by supporters from all around the country. To learn more about sponsoring a radio broadcast, telecast or closed captioning in honor of, or in memory of a loved one, or in celebration of a special life event, please call LaVonne Wolf, First Lutheran Financial Specialist, at 605-339-1983, ext. 211. Donations of any size will help this ministry.

KELO radio broadcast sponsorships are available ($150) for Aug. 9 & 21, Sept. 4, 11, 18 & 25.

TV: Sponsorship for the June 5 telecast on the Sioux Falls CW.

KSFY telecast sponsorships ($1300) available for June 12, July 3, 17 & 24.

KSFY Closed captioning sponsorships for the weekly telecasts are available ($140) for June 5, 19, & 26; July 3, 10, 17, 24 & 31.

Un-sponsored broadcast, telecast and closed caption dates are made possible in part through gifts and memorials to First Lutheran Church Media Ministries. Thank you for your continued support.

First Lutheran Church’s worship can be seen every Sunday at 11 a.m. on KSFY, KPRY and KABY in South Dakota, Southwest Minnesota, Northwest Iowa and Northeast Nebraska. A live radio broadcast of worship is aired Sundays at 8 a.m. on KELO-FM, 101.9.

March and April broadcast sponsorsMedia Ministries

Gifts and memorialsThank you to the generous donors who have shared many thoughts, prayers and financial gifts with the ministries of First Lutheran.

Financial services

Financial update May 2016Total Revenues - Year to date2016 Actual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $655,0782015 Actual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $664,108Total Expenses - Year to date2016 Actual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $661,8562015 Actual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $637,308Contract For Deed Ideal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $406,902“God’s Gifts . Our Responsibility .” Income through April, 2016 . . . . . . . . . . . .$3,930,980Worship Attendance April . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3,590


around the church

in this issue...1 In the twinkling of an eye

3 Summer forums

4 Cared for by God

5 Youth staff updates

2 A change before us

Bread for the World's "Survive and Thrive" By Nancy Olson, FLC BFW member

Today as I read a devotion in “Christ in our Home,” the author’s words spoke loudly as I began thinking about our First Lutheran Annual Bread for the World Offering of Letters to be held on Sunday, June 12. I have been especially saddened by the events of the world lately; the plight of millions of refugees displaced world-wide by wars and our meager response as a nation; the chaos of our political scene; the violence in our cities; hunger and malnutrition that continues to affect the lives and development of millions of newly born and yet-to-be-born little souls throughout our world… my list (and I’m sure yours) could go on and on.

The Bible tells us the story in Luke 5 about the disciples' utter discouragement when they have been fishing and bringing in their nets with no results. But then Jesus commands Peter to keep trying and guess what—the nets are cast out again and returned full!

Our Offering of Letters to our Congress people in Washington, DC, may elicit the same feelings of hopelessness within you. But like Peter, we need to

“write the letter again, share a smile and hopeful word with a stranger, and God overcomes my resistance, multiplies our efforts, and uses us to bring at least a small measure of love and grace to this needy world” ("Called to Follow" Christ in our Home, April 13,

2016). Please pick up an Offering of

Letters packet and background information in the Welcome Center and come prepared to write a letter on Sunday, June 12, in the Atrium or Genesis Café. This year’s Offering of Letters is sponsored by our First Lutheran Board of Evangelism, Mission, and Outreach. We are joining thousands of church members throughout the United States in asking Congress to budget at least $230 million for programs for mother and child nutrition through the Global Food Security Act which

is aimed at providing humanitarian assistance in a timely and more effective way.

Each person writing a letter on Sunday, June 12, will be given a small loaf of home-baked bread as a reminder that words and acts done in Christ’s name are truly “Bread for the World.”

Above Howard Bich writes a letter at the 2015 Offering of Letters and below Cindy Mogenberg talks with Madison Snelling.

Navigating FLC’s new websiteOur new website is up and running, and has a wealth

of information about our congregation’s ministries. Of course, it is and always will be a work in progress because new information will be added to the website constantly. New events, new groups, new blogs, bulletins and videos are added each week! And with anything new, there are bugs to be worked out as well as teaching people how best to make use of the website.

Our goal with the new site is to provide an easily accessible avenue to information for members and friends of First Lutheran Church who are familiar with

the church, while also being to useful to those who are new to FLC. A big part of accessibility is now being able to view our website on tablets and mobile devices, so that our website is easily accessible on laptops, tablets and smart phones.

Here is a brief introduction to finding your way around our new site. We are always open to user comments, suggestions and important updates. Please email [email protected] (click the email link at the bottom (footer) of the web page to let us know how to make the FLC website have the information you are looking for!

Let's check out the new site:Across the top of the site you can

move your mouse over the words to access links to the church calendar, bulletins, worship videos, small group opportunities, ministry information and more. Click on the Give button to make an online contribution, pay for activities such as Vacation Bible School and find out about the FLC Foundation.

A new feature to our website is the Quicklinks button. It is where you can "quickly" locate specific groups, classes and events by name or topic. Click on the images in the middle of the page to read about current happenings and access our social media pages by clicking on the icons at the bottom of the page.

Go ahead – type flcsf.org into your browser and do some exploring!

june 2016 volume 70 • number 5 first...

Documents