zion's january newsletter

ZION LUTHERAN CHURCH • BUFFALO, MN JANUARY 2013

O f f i c e@ Zi on Bu f f a l o . o r g ( 7 63 ) 6 82 - 12 45 w ww. Z i on Bu f f a l o . o r g

Births

November 1

Landon Michael Jennings Ortquist to

Natasha & Karl

November 5

Matthew Rodney Rinderknecht to Jessica &

Michael

Baptisms

November 11

Kaidyn Robert Pederson

Funerals

November 1

John Haried

November 13

Gloria Moe

Active Military

Please Pray For

Ben Pecarina

Stationed in Georgia

Will Dobbins

Deployed on the USS Peleliu

Christopher Brophy

Stationed at Ft Riley, KS

Greg Bremseth

Stationed at Ft Bliss, TX

Deanna Strommen

Stationed in Washington, DC

Christopher Schmidt

Deployed to the Persian Gulf

Cody Bauman

Stationed at Fort Bragg, NC

Trey Wilson

Stationed at Camp Pendleton, CA

Fred Pierce

Stationed in Miramar, CA

Doug Pecarina

Army National Guard

Alex Euerle

Deployed to Afghanistan

Warm Your Heart, Soul, and Mind

The Christmas decorations will be put away, the holiday celebrations will be memories. Women, here's a great chance for you to warm your heart, soul and mind in January.

On Saturday, January 19 there will be time for women to come to Zion for a retreat day with family and friends. Cost is $15/person for a great day of enrichment, great food, time with friends and surprises to take home. Sign up online at ZionBuffalo.org/retreat, at the information desk, or by calling the Zion office.

Schedule Sneak Peek

8:30am: Doors open for registration and continental breakfast

9:00am: Welcome

Morning Session: Time Management/Stress Relievers, presented by Carol Nusbaum

Wellness Wanderings: Your choice of walking through “fair style” interest areas in Fellowship Hall, attending half-hour sessions with topics of health and wellness presented by Allina Health or gardening ideas from Thea Adams, attending a yoga session, walking a prayer walk in and around the building, or chatting with friends

Lunch: A great meal created by food specialist Mary Jane Miller. After lunch we'll be treated to insider information from Mary Jane about how to cook the great foods we've shared and we'll hear from Dr. Mary Wilkens who will wrap up our day with thoughts about warming our hearts and souls with God's presence in our daily lives.

Plenary Speakers

Carol Nusbaum is a Zion member who has been a part of many caring ministries at Zion. During her career years, Carol has worked with the USDA Child & Adult Care Food Program for 27 years and is currently retired from her position as Director of Field Operations for Providers Choice, Inc. She has presented on a number of different topics at national TSA conferences, NAFCC conferences,

MNAEYC, NAEYC, & PCI conferences from coast to coast.

Mary Jane Miller, a Buffalo "local" has connections and interests in a wide variety of culinary arts from the newly forming Buffalo

Food Coop to the MN Governor's mansion to the Channel 5 show Twin Cities Live. Check out her website at www.maryjanemiller.com.

Dr. Mary Wilkens comes to us from Golden Valley. With 20+ years in family practice, Dr. Wilkens connects with at-risk students through the Hopkins High School and works as a preceptor through the Methodist Hospital Family Practice residency program. Mary's family, including her husband and children, has experienced what it means to serve God in everyday life and careers.

Connecting With Care

Creating a community where people are connected 2

Young Couples Get Together

All “young” couples from Zion are invited for a time of fellowship and a chance to connect and get to know other young families at Zion. Gather at Huikko’s Bowling and Entertainment Center on Friday, January 4, from 7-11pm.

Stop in for a little bit or come for the whole time – but leave the kiddos at home (with a sitter of course J)! We will have some time to just chat and get to know each other better, possibly get some food and maybe even bowl a few games.

RSVP by January 3 via Zion’s Facebook page or to Kirsten at [email protected].

Winter New Member Introduction

The next New Member Introduction will be held after lunch on Sunday, January 27. This orientation to membership provides an introduction to Zion ministries and staff, an opportunity to meet others at Zion, and a little about what it means to be Lutheran. Lunch is included and childcare is available.

Those that decide to become members will be formally received into our congregation on Sunday, February 3.

Register at ZionBuffalo.org/Membership or at the information desk.

The Tana French Series

The Zion Book Club will not meet in December. Their selection for Monday, January 12, is the Tana French Series (In the Woods, The Likeness, Faithful Place, and the most recent, Broken Harbor).

In the Woods

‘Sharply written and insidiously creepy, this is a mesmerizing read that grabs hold of the reader from the very first page and doesn’t let go until well past two in the morning.’ - The Times

The Likeness

‘Police procedures, psychological thrills and gothic romance beautifully woven into one stunning story.’ - Kirkus

(Zion Book Club continued on page 17)

Wednesday Suppers

There’s a tasty meal waiting for you

every Wednesday from 5:00-6:15 in the

Fellowship Hall for a suggested

donation of $4 per plate/$15/family.

The best deal in town!

Meals will be served each week until the

end of the school year excluding school

breaks.

January 2: Soup/Chili/

Hotdog

January 9: Brunch Menu

January 16: Tacos

January 23: Sloppy Joes

January 30: Soup/Chili/

Hotdog

What Are We Pinning?

Bible Verses

Lutheran “Stuff”

Craft Ideas

People at Zion

Pinterest.com/

ZionBuffalo

in relationships and supported in need. 3

Lorraine Statema

I cannot thank Lorraine enough for all she has taught me…I met her as a volunteer and she became my friend!

Dawn Bestick, Administrative Assistant

by Lorraine Statema

I grew up on a farm near Hamel, Minnesota. I had two brothers and there was always lots of things to do and enjoy in those carefree days. I then met Bernard Statema and we were married and had three children, one daughter and two sons. I really enjoy my seven grandchildren and seven great grandchildren, all living in or near my home in Delano.

My husband and I attended Redeemer Lutheran Church in Wayzata up until 1988. We made the decision to move out farther west to the small community of Delano, Minnesota. Of course, we would need to find a new church, and questioned some of our friends who knew the area. They highly recommended we try Zion Lutheran Church in nearby Buffalo, Minnesota. We found the church very friendly and it soon became our "home" and we became members. It remains my place of worship for these past 24 years.

Bernard passed away in 2002, and life has changed for me. After having spent over 48 years working in an office, it was only natural that I could find a place to volunteer some of my retirement years filling in where I could be needed.

I had been employed in the office of Boyer Garbage Service in Loretto, Minnesota for 18 years. I then continued my office career for the next 20 years a McQuay International in Plymouth before retiring. I well remember the Sunday after my working was complete, when I mentioned to Sherilyn Burgdorf what I might be doing with my extra hours. She was quick to respond, "you can always become a volunteer in our church office."

So began these last ten years serving in various ways at Zion's church office. Along the way, there have been many experiences, all very rewarding, in just being on hand to do all the miscellaneous jobs that are required in a busy office with a thriving congregation. One of my special privileges has been to help prepare for our communion services.

Since being a widow, it has become my habit to arrive at church early on Sunday mornings. We always had coffee hour after church service, and it seemed normal for me to offer to make coffee in my free time. Then one morning, I had an early call from one of the pastors, asking if I would mind going to the downtown grocery to pick up the large box of doughnut holes to serve with coffee. At the time it was just a "one time emergency," but it has become one of my regular volunteer jobs. I can always enjoy the fellowship of sharing those cups of coffee and doughnut holes with dear friends.

(Lorraine Statema continued on page 16)

Walking By Faith

A new women’s Bible study series,

entitled Walking By Faith: Lessons

Learned in the Dark, will begin on

Wednesday, January 9. Author, Jennifer

Rothchild compares her blindness with

what it means to have true faith in

something beyond ourselves. This is a

great opportunity for new participants to

join in the discussion. This group meets

on Wednesday mornings, starting January

9, at 9:30 in the Zion Library . Contact

Donna Magnan at 763.972.6403 to

register.

Let Us Know

Address, Phone & Email Corrections

If you have had any changes to your

address, phone number, marital status,

etc. please contact the office with your

name, phone number and the changes that

need to be made in our database.

If You Are Ill

Hospitals no longer notify churches when

their members are admitted for care. Let

us know so we can support you with

prayer and presence.

Prayer Requests

Please use a yellow pew card, post on the

Prayer Wall of our online community, or

contact the office with your prayer

requests.

763.682.1245

TableProject.ZionBuffalo.org

[email protected]

Living God’s Call

Engaging people in a process of discipleship which inspires them 4

Medical Supplies

*Vitamins (children and adult)

*Dandruff Shampoo

*Reading Glasses & Sunglasses (any

prescription glasses)

*Ziploc bags (snack & quart)

Watches

Antibiotic Ointments (triple antibiotic,

neosporin, neomycin, bacitracin)

Antacid Meds (tums, prilosec, pepcid, zantac,

acifex)

Anti-constipation Meds (milk of magnesia,

senna, dulcolax, metamucil)

Antifungal Ointments (tinactin,mycolog,

kenolog, lotrimin, tolfanate, etc)

Cough Syrup (guiafenesin cough syrup or

mucinex tablets)

Steroid Ointments (hydrocortisone)

Band-Aids

Hand Sanitizer (Purell, etc.)

CPAP machines, nebulizers

Wheelchairs, crutches, walkers, commodes

Sprain boots, arm slings, Ace wraps etc.

Medications can be open and must expire

before 10/13

Construction Equipment

*Caulk (white, paintable, silicone)

Nuts, *bolts, nails and screws

*Plastic storage containers (all sizes from cool

whip containers to storage bins)

Hammers, Screw Drivers, Handsaws

Tape Measures, Levels & Squares

Work gloves / Leather gloves

Wire cutting pliers, Pliers, utility knives,

Pry bars or Crowbars

7 ¼ skill saw blades, carbide wood and metal

cutting type

Levels up to 24 inches long

3/8 drill with cord and Phillips bits #2

50 ft electric cord, 3 way connector

L-shaped shelf brackets

Double & Queen flat sheets, blankets, pillow

cases, shower curtains & liners

Flatware

Wash towels, soap, large towels

School Supplies

12-inch Rulers, Calculators, Scissors, Glue

Notebooks (taped binding type only), kids’

books, coloring books

Pens and Pencils, Colored Pencils

Small Backpacks, Storage Containers

Turn Your Trash Into Cash

Recycling Fundraiser for Mission Jamaica

Dispose of used cell phones, ink cartridges, and small electronics in an earth-friendly manner and support Mission Jamaica at the same time. The Mission Jamaica Team is collecting these items to raise money to support Mission Jamaica. Bring your items to the collection bin near the information desk throughout January.

Mission Trip Supplies

The Mission Jamaica team will be collecting medical and construction items from January 27 through February 17. Donations of these supplies will be taken to Jamaica by the Zion team. Cash donations are also welcome and will be used to buy wholesale bulk medical and construction supplies as well as supplies that need to be purchased after they arrive in the country. Make your check payable to Zion Lutheran Church, with ‘Mission Jamaica’ in the memo, and place it in a pew envelope.

Our number one request for medicine donations is for child and adult Multiple Vitamins. We can use unlimited amounts as malnutrition and pregnancy is common in Jamaica.

Dressing supplies, Ace wraps (or similar), and Band Aids are very useful.

Please consider cleaning out your closet or basement of old crutches, wheelchairs, commodes, walkers, leg (CAM) braces, ankle splints, AFO's (for foot drop), back braces, arm slings, neck collars, hand/arm splints such as for carpal tunnel syndrome, nebulizers, CPAP machines. We will get these "lightly used" items to people who can really use them.

This year we are planning to give donated "lightly used" watches as "prizes" to patients coming to the clinic who do not need any medication so that they do not leave the clinic pharmacy empty handed.

We will continue to give used glasses (reading glasses, sun glasses, prescription glasses) which were well received last year.

Thank you for supporting your Medical Team!

Dr. Andrew Burgdorf and the Zion MJ Medical Team

to trust in Christ, grow in faith, and serve God’s world. 5

items marked

(*) are most

needed

Our Mission... Zion seeks to

Share Christ’s Word,

Strengthen our Faith, and

Serve those in need.

Our Vision… Helping people experience the joy

of life in Christ by:

1. Celebrating on Sundays:

Creating Sunday morning experiences that invite, welcome,

engage and inspire people to live for Christ.

2. Living God’s Call:

Engaging people in a process of discipleship which inspires them to

trust in Christ, grow in faith, and serve God’s world.

3. Connecting with Care:

Creating a community where people are connected in relationships and

supported in need.

Creating Sunday morning experiences at Zion that invite, 6

Senior Choir Sings at Redeemer

Many of you may remember the song, ” Do you know the way to San Jose?” Well, let me ask you, do you know the way to Redeemer Lutheran Church, our partner congregation in North Minneapolis? Over the past few years, many from Zion have attended Zion Day at Redeemer in April or on other occasions. They have come away overjoyed with how meaningful the day was for them.

Zion’s Senior Choir recently joined the Redeemer congregation and choir for a Sunday service. Many of them had been to Redeemer before, but for many others, it was a first time. I asked some of them what the experience was like for them. Here are a few of their responses:

Sue Wright

I am still reveling in the glow from the Senior Choir’s Sunday at Redeemer. Singing In This Very Room has never been so moving as when we shared it with those earnestly believing faces. Reliance on faith was evident in the room by action, word, and deed. A few of Redeemer’s choir members joined us for another song and raised the level of praise even higher. If you haven’t had a chance to worship with our sister church, go soon – you will not regret it.

Gary and Mary Lynn Leff

Pastor Kelly Chatman (Redeemer) in his sermon on November 18, talked about “earthquakes” in our lives and in our churches. One of his examples; a service that lasts longer than an hour! We experienced an earthquake – a service that lasted much longer than an hour. In that time we heard extensive prayer requests, announcements, Passing-the-Peace that lasted more than 30 seconds, and people introducing themselves publicly to others. We heard music from the soul as Leon sang “Precious Lord” with our Zion choir. We learned about neighborhood projects being carried out at Redeemer. Perhaps most poignant to us is the color-blend of the congregation. Black and white – they are equal in HIS sight! We went to GIVE (music) and left having RECEIVED.

We received acceptance, inspiration, and joy.

Mike Walsh

It was a wonderful morning singing at Redeemer! From singing with the musicians at Redeemer to hearing Alyssa & Kent’s rendition of “His Eye is On the Sparrow”, it was a very moving and musical experience. The 2+ hours from the beginning of the Prayer and Praise time through the end of the service seemed to race by. By the end we were talking about making it an annual event!

(Choir sings at Redeemer continued on page 15)

It is so rewarding and wonderful to visit our sister church at Redeemer.

With all of its different ethnic groups, it is humbling to see

everybody sitting together and worshiping our risen Lord. So

enlightening to see the two choirs singing as one. God bless the two

churches in the future.

Ron and Gloria Siemers

Celebrating on Sundays

In the Beginning… God Gave!

The scriptures are a testimony to the generosity of God. First, God gave the world with its beauty and bounty. Next, God gave life to humans. As followers of Christ one of the things we recognize is that, first and foremost, our lives are not our own. They are a gift from God. Our breath, our surroundings, our abilities, our families, our joys and interests – all of it is given.

Then God gave forgiveness. “Come now, let us set things right,” says the LORD. “Though your sins are like scarlet, they may become white as snow; though they be crimson red, they may become white as wool.” Isaiah 1:18 In the Old Testament, the portion of the Bible where the book of Isaiah is found, blood and sin were connected. Blood represented our guilt – our sin. In the Old Testament people atoned for their sin and guilt by offering a sacrifice of an animal. The animal’s blood was a sort of payment because of their guilt. Christ came to bring us forgiveness once and for all. His blood brings eternal forgiveness. His death on the cross brings the end of our guilt. Jesus has taken your sin and mine upon himself. Because of what he has done, we are forgiven.

One way of describing the Christian life is to say it is a life of showing our gratitude to God. There is no better long-term forecast than to know we are forgiven by God for all our sin and failure. There is no better long-term forecast than to have the promise of life eternally in God’s presence. Living life as a Christian is saying “Thank you to God” with everything we do.

And that is why we “give back” to God. We give back to God out of gratitude for what God has first given to us. Our lives are one long thank you letter. At Zion we invite everyone to give financially to God’s mission through our church. Our financial giving is no different than giving our time or our abilities to a church project or ministry. We give our time and abilities/gifts because we are grateful for all that God has done for us. Giving our money is another way to say “Thank you” to God. In fact, the way we live our lives, everyday, is a way of saying “Thank you” to God.

In the beginning… As we start out this new year, it is a great time to remind ourselves that all we have comes from God. Our year past was a gift from God. The year that lies ahead is a gift from God. Our very life and next breath is a gift from God. How will you say “Thank you, God” in 2013? May your new year be filled with God’s best for you!

Sunday Worship Services

8:30am Traditional Worship in the

Sanctuary with nursery available,

Sunday School during the school year

9:45am Family Express in Trinity Hall

10:30am Contemporary Worship in the

Sanctuary with nursery available,

Sunday School during the school year

Worship Schedule

Sunday, January 6

Epiphany of Our Lord

Matthew 2:1-12

Pastor Ted Preaching

Sunday, January 13

Baptism of Our Lord

Luke 3:15-17, 21-22


Sunday, January 20

Second Sunday after Epiphany

John 2:1-11

Pastor Luke Preaching

Sunday, January 27

Third Sunday after Epiphany

Luke 4:14-21


The Baptism Class

Anyone wishing to schedule a baptism is

asked to attend a class prior to the date

of the baptism. Expectant parents, as

well as those who already are parents,

may attend the class. Scheduling of

baptisms will take place at the class.

The next classes are Sunday, February

10, and Sunday, April 14, at noon.

Register at ZionBuffalo.org/Baptism or

by calling the office.

welcome, engage and inspire people to live for Christ. 7

November 2012 Financial Report

General Services Fund

Income Nov 2012 YTD 2012 Nov 2011 YTD 2011 General Offering $55,928 $621,152 $56,587 $617,255

Rent and Sunday School 2,401 22,852 2,218 22,301

WedNite Supper Income 801 7,058 957 7,874

Missions and Hunger 1,707 13,589 813 12,328

Other Designations 933 16,802 2,882 15,280

Total Income $61,770 $681,452 $63,458 $675,039

Expenses Synod Benevolence $1,000 $11,000 $1,000 $11,000

Other General Services 62,278 651,349 57,699 642,266

Total Expenses $63,278 $662,349 $58,699 $653,266

Checkbook balance as of 11-30-2012: -$9,141

A Promising Tomorrow/Building Fund

Income Nov 2012 YTD 2012 Nov 2011 YTD 2011 Offerings and Interest $16,042 $167,928 $17,092 $178,416

Other Receipts 0 0 0 0

Total Income $16,042 $167,928 $17,092 $178,416

Expenses Building Mortgage $15,869 $174,559 $15,869 $167,116

Roof/Parking Lot Loan 0 0 0 3,653

Kairos Consulting 0 6,000 0 20,000

Interest Expense on LOC 0 0 0 0

Bank Service Charge 15 45 0 30

Total Expenses $15,884 $180,604 $15,869 $190,800

Checkbook balance as of 11-30-2012: $14,790

Thank you for your continued support of God’s work at Zion Lutheran Church.

Memorial Gifts Received

Gift to the Zion Memorial Fund in

memory of Joanne Machula from Jack

Machula.

Thanks from Blue Star

Mothers

Blue Star Mothers thanks the

congregation for all the help, generous

donations and home made cookies for

the Blue Star Mothers project of

mailing Christmas boxes to troops.

We had so many awesome cookies and

the donations were amazing!! Packs of

batteries, magazines, books, shampoos,

lotion, etc. to chips, coffee, tea, candy!

It truly was soup to nuts!

We also had letters and cards to send in

the stockings from children and adults.

Unbelievable how these children write

from their hearts. The troops love to

read every card and letter and they

appreciate receiving them.

The monetary donations – Wow!! Thank

you. Your kindness helped make the

troops’ holidays a little easier being

away from home.

We mailed out MANY boxes packed

full of Christmas stockings filled with

all your generous donations on

November 20, 2012.

We wanted the troops to know we

haven’t forgotten them and never will.

We couldn’t have done this project

without you. All your help, kindness

and generosity are greatly appreciated.

Thank you, Thank you. May the Lord

Bless you all.

Sandy Brophy, Jenny Pecarina, Laurie

and Teresa Mandery and the rest of the

Blue Star Mothers of Wright County.

A Blue Star Mother is someone who has

a child or children now serving or has

served in our U. S. military. We meet

on the first Monday of the month here

at Zion at 7:00pm in the Sheep Sunday

School room. All are welcome and

encouraged to attend if you have a

loved one serving in the military. Blue

Star Mothers can be contacted at

[email protected].

ZionBuffalo.org/Give 8

Finance & Stewardship

L.S.S. Counseling

Available at Zion once a week, every

Thursday. Evening appointments can also

be scheduled. Provider for many

insurances with sliding scale. Call Miho

Adkins at 1.320.251.7700

9

Planned Giving

In 2 Corinthians 9:6-7, Paul writes, “The point is this: The one who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, but the one who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each of you must give as you have made up your mind, not reluctantly or under compulsion.”

To be planned or intentional means to make up your mind, develop a plan, and then turn your plan into action.

If you dig into your purse or wallet Sunday morning to see what’s left for morning offering, you probably need to make a plan about your giving. If your giving changes each week depending on the balance in your checkbook, you probably need to make a plan about your giving. Planned and intentional giving sets you free. If you put your planned giving amount aside at the beginning of each week, you can freely live on the rest of your income.

Hopefully, as you prayerfully completed your Estimate of Giving Card for this coming year, you have made up your mind, and have developed a plan for giving and with discipline. The card helps each of us be intentional in our giving. If you have not yet returned your Estimate of Giving Card for 2013, I encourage you to do so.

It is a privilege to commit to partner with God in ministry.

Winter

Winter can be a difficult season. Days are shorter, less sunshine and more darkness. Temperatures and weather conditions can prevent us from connecting with each other and keep some of us homebound. Yet the first image that comes to mind for me is a landscape covered with sparkling, glittering frost. In the cold and quiet solitude, I can see my breath.

“Breathe on me, breath of God; fill me with life anew, that I may love all that you love and do what you would do.”

(LBW #488 Breathe on Me Breath of God)

This mosaic tile artwork is one of eight 2×4-foot pieces created by 2012 Vacation Bible School students, grades one through six. LeeAnn Goerss planned and supervised the project, Mike Otten grouted them, and the Memorials & Placement Committee helped fund them. Panels will be posted on Pinterest throughout the 2012-2013 school year, and all of the panels will eventually be on permanent display at Zion.

Wednesday January 9

9:30am Women's Bible Study

2:45pm Class Ring

3:45pm Ring Forth

3:45pm SONshine Choir

3:45pm Kids' Place

4:45pm Joy Choir

5:00pm Wednesday Night Supper

5:15pm Youth Choir

6:00pm Confirmation

6:30pm Joyful Ringers

7:00pm Property Committee Meeting

7:00pm Senior Choir

7:30pm Graceland Senior High Youth

Group

Thursday January 10

8:00am Men Seeking Wisdom Bible

Study

9:00am Lutheran Social Services

8:00pm First Sunday Rehearsal

Friday January 11

Saturday January 12

Sunday January 13

Installation of Council Members

7:00am Cinnamon Rolls

8:30am Traditional Worship Service

8:30am Sunday School

9:30am Coffee Fellowship

9:45am Family Express Worship

10:30am Contemporary Worship Service



Monday January 14

8:00am Men's Bible Study

9:00am Women's Ministry Planning

7:00pm Zion Book Club

Tuesday January 15

9:30am Staff Meeting

9:30am Naomi Circle

5:30pm Stewardship

Meeting

7:00pm Jubilee Rehearsal

Vision Team Meeting

Wednesday January 16

7:00am Men's 50+ Bible Study

9:15am Sunrise Devotions


2:45pm Class Ring

3:45pm Ring Forth


3:45pm Kids' Place

4:45pm Joy Choir


5:15pm Youth Choir

6:00pm Worship and Music Committee

6:00pm Confirmation


7:00pm Senior Choir


Group

7:30pm Church Council Meeting

Thursday January 17


Study


6:30pm Youth Board Meeting

7:00pm Prayer Sister Tea Meeting

7:00pm Rebecca Circle


Friday January 18

8:00am Women's Retreat Prep

6:00pm Friday Night Fun Night:

Snowtubing (grade 6-12)

Saturday January 19

9:00am Women's Retreat

ZionBuffalo.org/Calendar 10

Tuesday January 1

New Year's Day

Church Office Closed

Wednesday January 2

7:00am Men's 50+ Bible Study

2:45pm Class Ring

3:45pm Ring Forth


3:45pm Kids' Place

4:45pm Joy Choir

5:15pm Youth Choir

6:00pm Confirmation Guide Meeting


7:00pm Senior Choir

Thursday January 3


Study



Friday January 4

6:00am Friday Breakfast Crew

Saturday January 5

10:00am Wedding

Sunday January 6

Holy Communion at 8:30, 9:45, & 10:30








Monday January 7


7:00pm Mission Jamaica team meeting

Tuesday January 8

9:00am Zion Staff Retreat

6:30pm Outreach & Evangelism

Committee


7:00pm Global Missions Committee

January 2013

Women’s Retreat

Saturday, January 19

Carol Nusbaum

Mary Jane Miller

Dr. Mary Wilkens

Sunday January 20

Holy Communion at 8:30 and 10:30

Sunday School Mission Project

Installation of Council Members





10:30am Jubilee Worship Service



11:30am TIM Team

12:00pm Sunday School Volunteer

Appreciation Dinner

2:00pm Parkview Devotions/Communion

2:30pm Winterfest

Monday January 21

Martin Luther King's Birthday

Church Office Closed


Tuesday January 22



7:00pm Personnel Committee Meeting

11

Sunday January 27

Sanctuary Sunday

Sunday School Mission Project

7:00am Cinnamon Rolls






11:45am New Member Introduction

Monday January 28


Tuesday January 29





2:45pm Class Ring

3:45pm Ring Forth


3:45pm Kids' Place

4:45pm Joy Choir


5:15pm Youth Choir

6:00pm Confirmation


7:00pm Senior Choir


Group

Thursday January 31


Study



New Member Introduction


9:30am Devotions at Lake Ridge


10:30am Devotions at Park View

2:45pm Class Ring

3:45pm Ring Forth


3:45pm Kids' Place

4:45pm Joy Choir


5:15pm Youth Choir

6:00pm Confirmation


7:00pm Senior Choir

7:00pm Foundation Meeting


Group

Thursday January 24


Study



Friday January 25

Saturday January 26

6:00pm Italian Dinner

Italian Dinner and Variety Show

Saturday January 26

6pm Dinner 7:15pm Show

Friday Night Fun Night / Snowtubing

Middle School and Senior High students are invited to go snowtubing at Elm Creek Park Reserve in Maple Grove on Friday, January 18.

Students need to be at Zion by 5:30pm with proper winter gear (hats, gloves, snow pants, etc. - if students are not properly dressed, they will not be able to go). The buses will leave Zion at 6pm and return by 10pm. The cost is only $20 per student, plus money for concessions, if they want.

More information, sign up, and the required waiver can be found at ZionBuffalo.org/Youth. Students need to be registered and paid by Sunday, January 6.

Bible Camp at Camp Wapo

Zion is again teaming up with Lake Wapogasset Bible Camp in Amery, WI this summer to offer a superb summer camping experience!

Bible Camp is a place where fun and faith collide. Campers encounter God’s word, make friends and create memories to last a lifetime.

Youth Camp, which is open to current 4th-8th graders, is from Sunday, July 7, to Friday, July 12. The week is packed with a variety of activities that are meant to impact kids for eternity. Each day includes Bible study, chapel, cabin activities, free time, field games and campfire.

TIM Team is a leadership development opportunity for current 9th-12th graders, who commit to one year of service as leaders in their home church, working primarily with younger youth. TIM Teamers will stay at Ox Lake, as well as experiencing the Low / High Ropes Challenge Course. During the week, much of each day is spent at Wapo, participating as leaders with the younger youth from Zion. TIM Team is from Saturday, July 6, to Friday July 12.

In the past, thanks to a generous gift from the Zion Foundation, the cost has been reduced to $295/camper. Final cost for this year will be available in January.

Registrations and a $100 deposit/student must be in by February 17 to secure your student’s spot at camp. There is financial assistance available to those who are in need. Do not let finances be a reason that you do not send your student to camp!

Italian Dinner & Variety Show

Save the date! Saturday, January 26 … the Italian Dinner and Variety Show will once again be hosted by the Zion Senior High Youth at 6pm in Trinity Hall.

There are still spots open for acts this year! If you can juggle, sing, dance, do magic, play an instrument, bend bars with your bare hands or all of these at once, contact Myron by January 13 to reserve your spot in this year’s show!

Confirmation Guide Meeting

There is a Confirmation Guide meeting at 6pm on Jan 2. Dinner will be provided.

Director of Youth Ministries

Myron Crawford

763-682-1245 ext. 308

[email protected]

Engage. Grow. Proclaim.

Zion Youth Ministries exists to

engage youth, help them grow

and proclaim faith in Christ.

Friday Breakfast Crew

Senior High Students - Come out to

Perkins on Friday, January 4 at 6am

for a chance to check-in with everyone.

Make sure to bring money for food and

a tip for our great servers!

Youth Board

There is a Youth Board meeting on

Thursday, January 17, at 6:30pm.

TIM Team

TIM Team (Teens in Mission) will meet

on Sunday, January 20, at 11:30 in the

Café Corner.

Confirmation/Graceland

There will be NO Confirmation for

students or Graceland on Wednesday,

January 2 (due to winter break). Be

safe and have fun!

Everything Else

Check the website for Graceland and

Confirmation schedules:

ZionBuffalo.org/youth

1 Timothy 4:12

Don’t let anyone look down on

you because you are young, but set

an example for the believers in speech,

in life, in love, in faith and in purity.

Youth Ministry

ZionBuffalo.org/Youth 12

Sunday School Calendar

January 6

Pre-K Jesus Came for Me

1st-3rd David and Goliath

4th B2—How the World Began

5th-6th You’re Not Called to be Normal

January 13

Pre-K Life of Jesus

1st-3rd David and Jonathan

4th 10 Commandments

5th-6th Grapple

January 20

Pre-K Life of Jesus

1st-3rd David the King

4th 10 Commandments

5th-6th How to Start a Riot

January 27

Sanctuary Sunday

Advent at Zion

During the weeks of Advent, the Sunday

School kids made some wonderful

projects! The preschool,

kindergarteners, and 4th-6th graders

made a wooden manger to take home

and use for years to come and the 1st-

3rd graders made luminaries (out of

canning jars) that were used to line the

sidewalks on Christmas Eve. Thanks to

all of the wonderful volunteers and

teachers that made these two special

projects so successful and meaningful!

CoDirectors of Christian Education

Holly Husom

763-682-1245 x308

[email protected]

Kirsten Kelly

763-682-1245 x331

[email protected]

ZionBuffalo.org/Children 13

Family Matters

We all have different definitions of “family.” Many of us think of our immediate family when we hear the word – parents, brothers, sisters. Several of us would also consider our close friends to be family as well. I heard a cute saying recently that “Friends are the family that you choose”. No matter who you call your family, I think we can all agree that these people are essential – even crucial – to our health and growth as individuals and people.

According to Search Institute, there are Internal and External Assets that children need in order to grow up “healthy.” Many of these assets include family in one way, shape or form. According to their website (www.search-institute.org/developmental-assets), “The Developmental Assets® are 40 common sense, positive experiences and qualities that help influence choices young people make and help them become caring, responsible, successful adults.” The second asset on the list of 40 is “Positive Family Communication.” As parents, we need to be talking with our children all the time (and at every age) to help them grow in faith, discern right from wrong, learn how to make good decisions, and develop strong values and integrity. However, in our society (where we are often running at break-neck speed), good communication often gets left by the wayside as we rush to the next activity. We have good intentions, we are just so BUSY. Coupled with that is our child’s disdain for these “deep” conversations which makes it even harder at times to pursue “positive family communication”.

One way that Zion plans to partner with families to strengthen communication in the new year is through a new series called “Family Matters”… because families DO matter at Zion and the topics at these events will be related to family issues. At Family Matters we will bring in speakers to talk about topics related to parenting and family. The purpose of these events will be to increase dialogue between children and parents on important issues and also to connect Zion parents to each other in a way that can provide mutual support and care. Check out page 16 for the first of these Family Matters events coming on February 6!

In the next few weeks, try to be mindful of how many times you tell someone how busy you are when they ask how you’re doing. It’s almost as if our value as a person is determined by how much we have going on. I challenge us all to take a look at how we are spending time with our kids. What positive family communication is taking place in our households? How are we discussing faith and values with our children and using the teachable moments to bring faith into everyday life? May 2013 be a time of rich family conversation in your home as you continue to grow and learn together in faith!

Blessings,

Kirsten Kelly

Children’s Ministry

Tom Moline

Tom Moline works as a graphic artist at Tolomatic, Inc. in Hamel, MN. He is married to Karen and has two sons, Taylor (a student at North Hennepin Community College), and Dan (a senior at Buffalo High School).

Tom describes himself as “closer to 60 than 50, but when averaged against my emotional maturity my age is like 29.” He is good at creating posters and other literature, and has had a lot of photography experience. “I've been a graphic artist since 1977. I used to keyline, and hand draw in pen and ink. Now everything is done on the computer. I kind of miss drawing.”

Connie and Vern Wahlstrom lead the Moline Family to Zion 19 years ago when they moved to the Buffalo area. “Both our children were baptized here and it was through them and my involvement with Sunday School that I really began to mature in my faith life. Listening to KTIS, preparing for the lessons and answering my children's questions about God made praising the Lord a daily activity.”

After 9/11, Tom made a conscious choice to try to make the world a better place, and bolstered his activities in Scouts and church. He served as a small group leader for confirmation, and became a member of the Stewardship Committee.

Last year Tom was returning to the tent from a morning of deer hunting when he received a message that Pastor Ted wanted to talk to him. He agreed to serve on the Church Council because he was asked and because he saw it as an opportunity to grow and serve. “I may not be the best organized, smartest or most spiritual, but I am willing and make it a point to be available.”

Tom has found getting to know other council members to be the most rewarding part of the serving on the Church Council.

“These people are so supportive and friendly. As part of stewardship I have made various announcements throughout the years. I used to get SO nervous. After doing a bad job more than once - and still getting encouragement from the congregation - I began to realize that forgiveness and acceptance are THE words that describe this congregation.”

One of the duties of council members is to count the offerings each Sunday. “I am constantly surprised by the generosity of the congregation. But, it should not surprise me. After all, these people are trying their best to be like God, and God is generous beyond our understanding.

Beyond the walls of Zion, Tom likes to keep physically fit and enjoys fishing, hunting and other outdoor activities. In the past he was involved in Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts in Montrose, and at one time was a dog trainer and president of St. Paul Dog Training Club.

Tom is looking forward to being part of Zion’s All-Ages mission trip to Duluth in July.

Communion Card FAQ

Why Fill Out Communion Cards?

Zion’s constitution defines a voting

member as a confirmed member who

has “communed and made a

contribution of record during the

current or preceding year,” so we

need a list of those that have

communed to be able to determine

voting members.

The synod requires us to report how

many of our members communed

each year.

It helps our pastors keep a handle on

the spiritual health of our

congregation.

Who Should Fill Out A Communion Card?

It is very helpful to the office staff and

volunteers if you complete one card per

household rather than a card for each

individual. Having less total cards makes

the task of alphabetizing and entering

them into the computer much easier.

What Do I Write On The Card?

The only piece of information that we use

from the communion cards is the name or

names. Please include the first names of

all family members who are communing

as well as the last name. Do not include

young children who are receiving a

blessing rather than communion.

Zion is a large church, and there may be

another family with the same last name as

you, or those doing data entry may not

know all the members of your family. If

we cannot tell which specific members of

your family are indicated, your

communion will not be recorded.

Can I Put My New Address On A

Communion Card?

If you have a new address, phone number,

email, prayer request, or other concern,

please use the white welcome cards.

Communion cards are often not processed

for several weeks or longer and we do not

look at the back.

14

Choir members from Zion and Redeemer joining in praise

Thanks to:

Those who helped decorate Zion for

Advent and Christmas

The Ultimate Resolution

Resolutions are easy to make but oh so

hard to keep. In fact, many people refuse

to make them for that very reason. After

all, by February, most people have broken

them, and by March they don’t even

remember what they were. It’s just too

hard to change, so why try?

Yet Scripture exhorts us to be more like

Christ, to forgive our enemies, to tithe

and to be thankful in all situations.

Shouldn’t we resolve to put some of these

into practice, even if ever so imperfectly?

Peter admonishes us to be holy as God is

holy (1 Peter 1:15-16). That’s the

ultimate New Year’s resolution — all but

certain to be broken repeatedly before the

sun sets on the first day. Yet though we

fail, are we not better for trying?

15

Wayne Fingalson

I was privileged to attend Redeemer Lutheran Church in Minneapolis as a member of the Zion Senior Choir on November 18th. This was my first visit to Redeemer and I found it to be a very positive experience. The staff and congregation of Redeemer provided a very welcoming and celebratory atmosphere. I encourage all Zion members to experience a worship service at Redeemer.

Barb Stoffel

I was fortunate to be able to go to Redeemer as a member of the Zion choir on Sunday, November 18. I had gone to Redeemer several years ago with the choir and knew this would be a wonderful experience. What an inspiring, uplifting experience it was! The congregation welcomed the choir with hugs, praise, joy and prayers. We were all treated as members of their faith family and everyone joined together to praise our Lord with voices, songs, instruments and prayers.

During prayer and praise time people were invited to share what was on their heart. I did share that I found out that morning that one of my kindergarten students is in need of a kidney transplant. As soon as I shared that information I could feel that little boy raised up in prayer then and throughout that morning. I have no doubt that he will continue to be prayed for daily.

I invited some friends and family to join me at Redeemer and told them that they would experience a different type of church service than they may be used to. Several were able to come and exclaimed how moving and inspiring the service was and how friendly and welcoming everyone was. I hope our choir can make this a yearly event and I pray that all Zion members have an opportunity to experience worshiping at Redeemer some time in the future.

As you can see, our partnership with Redeemer is not just about Zion helping another congregation. Yes, our Global Missions committee does actively support Redeemer by committing $4000 annually to Redeemer. Yes, we do have an annual Zion Day at Redeemer in April where we participate in their service. Redeemer gives so much back to us that cannot be measured in financial terms. We have seen this in the past when Pastor Kelly has been a guest preacher or when Redeemer musicians have participated in our Global Missions Sunday worship. Now, we see it again in the comments of Zion members after the recent visit to Redeemer.

You may not know the way to San Jose, but if you can make two turns into Minneapolis, you can know your way to Redeemer. Please consider how you can learn more about our partner congregation, Redeemer Lutheran Church in North Minneapolis, and help support that partnership.

(Choir Sings at Redeemer continued from page 6)

Family Matters: Internet

Safety

The first of Zion’s new Family Matters

events will be held on Wednesday,

February 6, from 6-7:30 pm in Trinity

Hall.

The speaker will be Kevin Randolph, a

father of three and an Investigator at the

University of Minnesota Police

Department. He will be speaking on

Internet Safety: The Anti-Social Side of

Social Media. He will provide parents

with a lot of practical information that

you won’t want to miss. Join us for this

open and honest conversation about

technology today.

Family Matters events are for parents of

any age and will be on topics related to

children, youth and families.

Confirmation youth will also be expected

to attend. If you have any contact with

kids in your life, you won’t want to miss

these events!

New Wednesday Menu and

a New Chance to Serve

Take on something new for 2013 and be a

part of one of Zion’s Wednesday night

supper teams.

It’s a great way to get to know a

small group of people as you serve

together.

It’s fun to be a part of the action on

Wednesday nights!

Serve only 2-3 times between

January and May.

Help out with a great program that

feeds many people each week.

There’s a new menu night in the rotation

beginning January 2013: Breakfast for

Supper.

Call Cindy Bonde at 763.684.1467 with a

“Yes! Count me in!”

16

There have always been unusual experiences working in the office with all the staff. With a large congregation, there are so many needs that one would never otherwise encounter. The problems in our modern day world seem to have mushroomed these past years - there are always chances to get involved as a volunteer to help someone in a special situation.

I have a wonderful home and have many visits from my family. I enjoy having a very large garden - vegetables, fruits, and lots and lots of flowers to enjoy each year. I love being able to be in my own kitchen, being able to make strawberry jams - oftentimes having lots to give away as gifts to friends and neighbors. This year I have been making some "old fashioned fruitcakes" in small cupcakes to share with family & friends.

There are many opportunities for volunteer work in our local Delano community. We have a large and very active Senior Center where I love going early in the morning and working in the kitchen. There are always new programs and we have many volunteers to make our work more enjoyable. I love people and enjoy the good times of sharing with one another as we all grow older.

I also belong to the General Federated Women's Club (GFWC) of Delano. We are involved in many community and civic projects, the most popular and gratifying is selecting the "senior Citizen of the Year" and then being involved in those year-long activities. We meet monthly and always have something interesting to do. Volunteering is a very rewarding chance to be needed and to feel that we truly can make a difference in many lives. I have received many blessings as I continue to volunteer at my church. I have appreciated the wonderful ways that God enables me to help as a volunteer at Zion.

Where would we be without Lorraine’s helpful eye for detail on Sunday morning? It’s reassuring to know that Lorraine will be in the building very early every Sunday, cheerfully bringing the doughnuts that she’s already picked up from Coborn's in downtown Buffalo. She’s also able to answer the hard questions like “Have we forgotten anything” as we often check the rooms after a busy Saturday of church activities.

Sherilyn Burgdorf, Shared Ministry Coordinator

(Lorraine Statema continued from page 4)

Annual Meeting Report

At the annual congregational meeting on December 2, the following were elected:

Church Council: Alisa Ireland, Harley Pommier, Ryan Rud, Kristin Wilson

Nominating Committee: Roger Brenny, Sue Lyrek, Steve Peterson, Judy Weis, Duane Olson, Ed Cox.

Zion Foundation: Sandy Brenny, Phil Giddings

Minneapolis Area Synod Voting Members: Jason Chalupnik, Lois Monson, Blair Stewig

All motions that were included in the agenda passed.

tel:763.684.1467

A New Year poem

Another fresh new year is here …

Another year to live!

To banish worry, doubt, and fear,

To love and laugh and give!

This bright new year is given me

To live each day with zest …

To daily grow and try to be

My highest and my best!

I have the opportunity

Once more to right some wrongs,

To pray for peace, to plant a tree,

And sing more joyful songs!

—William Arthur Ward

Sunday Announcements

The relationships of our members with

one another bring a richness to our lives

and we want to foster these relationships.

If you would like your church family to be

aware of any special celebrations in your

life or the lives of your loved ones, please

let the church office know by Thursday at

10am and we will include them in the

written announcement insert in the

bulletin.

Prayer Sister Planning

If you would like to be part of the

planning team for the Prayer Sisters Tea

in December 2013, please attend the

meeting on Thursday, January 17, at

7pm.

17

Faithful Place

‘French’s emotionally searing third novel of the Dublin murder squad shows the Irish author getting better with each book... French is adept at seamlessly blending suspenseful whodunit elements with Frank’s familial demons.’ - Publishers Weekly (starred review)

Broken Harbour

‘Broken Harbor begins as a compelling and detailed procedural but soon shifts focus to the character of its characters. All are brilliantly drawn and ultimately broken... French’s descriptive powers are both vivid and nuanced, and her deeply creepy ghost estate inspires madness and a subtle kind of Gothic horror. French has never been less than very good, but Broken Harbor is a spellbinder.’ - Booklist (starred review)

From TanaFrench.com

The Zion Book Club is a low pressure book club. Simply come for discussion with no preparation; participants are not obligated to agree on (or even finish) the books. Come when you have interest and time, so that the book club will enrich your life and not become another stress or obligation.

Upcoming Book Club selections include Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn on February 11 The Lacuna by Barbara Kingsolver on March 11, and The Cellist of Sarajevo on April 8.

(Zion Book Club continued from page 3)

Italian Dinner and Variety Show

Saturday, January 26

6pm Dinner - 7:15pm Show

Advance Tickets $12

Children 12 and Under $7 or $15/$8 at the door Supporting Zion’s 2013 Senior High Wind River Mission Trip

Menu

Garden Salad Baked Ziti

Chicken Alfredo Garlic Toast

Desserts

http://www.tanafrench.com/books.html

The Voice

A monthly publication of Zion Lutheran Church

Upcoming Deadlines

January 14 at 8am for February Issue

February 11 at 8am for March Issue

Editor: Angela Bengtson

[email protected]

This Month’s Cover

‘Winter’ Mosaic by VBS students

Contact Us

[email protected]

www.ZionBuffalo.org

Office Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30am-

4:30pm (closes at noon summer Fridays)

Ph 763.682.1245 / Fax 763.684.1967

1200 Highway 25 South, Buffalo (across

from 13th St S.)

PO Box 88, Buffalo, MN 55313

18

Zion Staff

Ted Vanderpan: Senior Pastor

ext. 304 | [email protected]

Luke Schmidt: Pastor of Congregational Life


Sherilyn Burgdorf: Shared Ministry Director


Holly Husom: Co-Director of Christian Education


Kirsten Kelly: Co-Director of Christian Education


Myron Crawford: Director of Youth Ministries


Jim Onstad: Youth Staff

Dawn Bestick: Office Administrator / Receptionist

ext. 301/302 | [email protected]

Ann Lyons: Office Administrator / Receptionist

Ext. 301/302 | [email protected]

Angela Bengtson: Communications & Membership


Sue Stensrud: Financial Secretary


Ryan Bjokne: Facilities & Grounds Manager

[email protected]

Louis Nagel: Part-time Custodian

Missy Peterson & Laurel Lundeen: Nursery Staff

Denise Burke & Aimee Bogren: Kids’ Place Staff

Michael Walsh: Coordinator of Music

Bob Strommen: Sound System Coordinator

Congregational Council

Bill Deneen

Mike Davis

Kelly Hanson

Alisa Ireland

Deana Jeske

Beverly Koopman

Tom Moline

Mike Newman

Harley Pommier

Ryan Rud

Wanda Weber

Kristin Wilson

Inside

Zion Lutheran Church

1200 Highway 25 S.

PO Box 88

Buffalo, MN 55313

www.ZionBuffalo.org

Address Service Requested

Standard

U.S. Postage

PAID

Permit 11

Buffalo MN 55313

Address Label Here

Warm Your Heart Retreat 2

Young Couples 3

New Member Introduction 3

Lorraine Statema 4

Trash Into Cash 5

In the Beginning God Gave 7

Winter Mosaic 9

Bible Camp 12

Family Matters 13

Tom Moline 14

Communion Card FAQ 14

Janu

ary 2

01

3

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ZionBuffalo.org

See photos and video from the Christmas Program on Zion’s Facebook page at Facebook.com/ZionBuffalo/photos_albums. Thanks to photographers Anita Bazan, Tom Moline, Bill Husom,

and video recorder Denise Khulman.

zion's january newsletter

Documents

bu f f

mary wilkens

o f f i c e

great meal

great chance

great day of enrichment

zion member

zion office