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The Vine November

2014

Pastor:

Lee Woolery

403-253-1453 extn 11

403-301-0011(home)

403-809-3487(cell);

[email protected]

Director of Family Ministry:

Jayne Wenlock

403-253-1453 extn 14

403-200-2456 (cell)

[email protected]

Church Board 2014-2015

Debra Aichele

Jaqui Anderson

Joan Drennan

Yvonne Eberhardt

Jens Kaack

Jennifer May

Garry Mihaichuk

Bob Montgomery

Max Pincombe

Administration

Katharine Heimbigner-Tenor

Laura Jordan

403-253-1453 extn 10

[email protected]

www.oursaviourchurch.ca

8831 Fairmount Drive SE

Calgary, Alberta

T2H 0Z4

Ministry Team

All are members of Lutheran Church of Our Saviour

S t a f f O f f i c e H o u r s :

Pastor Lee:

Monday to Thursday

9:00 am to Noon

Jayne Wenlock

Tues & Wed 10:00—noon

Thurs 10:00 am-3:00pm

Friday 1:00-3:00pm

Katharine Heimbigner-Tenor

Mon to Wed 9:00 to 3:00

Laura Jordan

Wed to Friday 9:00 to 3:00

Subscribe to The Vine Online!

Simply email [email protected] with ‘Electronic Vine’ in

the subject line. Your email address will be added to the distribu-

tion list! ALSO you can find the Vine on our church website.

Please contact the Church Office with any questions.

Fearless Generosity

“Now to him who by the power at work within us is able to accomplish abundantly far more than all we can ask or imagine, to him

be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen.” (Ephesians 3:20-21)

November is Stewardship Month, although, really stewardship is year

round. The emphasis this year is “Fearless Generosity.” For four Sun-

days, we will be exploring this theme with Biblical insights on fearless

living, service, sowing and giving. I really like the boldness and

confidence of this year’s directive to be fearless. All too often, fear is

the wall, barrier, obstinate obstacle and foe of freedom, risk, openness

and love. Max Lucado, in his aptly titled book, Fearless, puts it this way:

“Fear, it seems, has taken a hundred-year lease on the building next door

and set up shop. Oversize and rude, fear is unwilling to share the heart

with happiness. Happiness complies and leaves. Do you ever see the two

together? Can one be happy and afraid at the same time? Clear thinking

and afraid? Confident and afraid? Merciful and afraid? No. Fear is the big

bully in the high school hallway: brash, loud and unproductive. For all the noise fear makes and room it takes, fear

does little good.”

No wonder there are 365 reminders in Scripture to “not be afraid.” No wonder the theme for our stewardship en-

couragement this fall is not “Fearful Generosity.” So now we are being invited to fearlessly consider what God is

calling each one of us to give out of what God has first given us. We will then have an opportunity to make commit-

ments for the coming year during our time of worship (11 am. only) on November 23rd, Christ the King Sunday (the

last Sunday of the Church Year). Afterward, we will join together in that great tradition of Hot Dog Sunday, a meal

of celebration and thanksgiving.

As we prepare our hearts and minds for that day, may this be our prayer:

Fearless God, your abundant generosity is a model for us. Help us trust in you and inspire us to be fearless stewards of what you

have entrusted to us. Amen.

In Christ alone

Pastor Lee

Come Out for Trick-or-Treating

for the Veteran’s Food Bank,

Pumpkin Carving, Laser-Tag,

Worship, Movie, and Sardines!

Breakfast Included!

Drop off, Friday October 31 @

6:00pm — Pick up, Saturday No-

vember 1 @ 9:00am

Lutheran Church of Our Saviour

youth@ oursaviourchurch.ca

RSVP by October 28th

As an afternoon service project we will be

helping with sorting and organizing for the

LCOS Operation Christmas Child

‘work-bee’ on November 22.

(ie: putting together sewing kits, etc.)

Snacks and high fives provided.

Saturday November 15th, 1:00 - 4:00

pm

@ Lutheran

Do you have a song in your heart? Do you enjoy music and like to laugh? If the answer is “Yes”, then do we have a

place for you. The LCOS Choir rehears-es on Wednesday nights at 7:30 pm, on-ly for one hour. You’ll share your time with like-minded folk, and come away

feeling better for the songs and the fun. Questions? Contact Terry Lee or Alex

McKay.

Eleven years ago a small group, FLOCK CARE was formed for the purpose of en-hancing and maintaining intentional caring supportive connections within the church family for those who were ill, homebound, in residential care, grieving loss or facing other difficult life issues.

The mission statement is: to facilitate, encourage and ensure caring connections within the church family of LCOS and within the wider community as the need aris-es.

Small Groups are an ideal setting for people to get to know each other and provide a supportive caring place. But many worshippers at LCOS are not members of small groups and that is when Flock Care, if made aware, will visit, provide some basic service, information regarding ser-vices, or in some way facilitate an ongoing relationship with the church family.

Is this ministry for you? We meet on the third Thursday of each month except December and July. Pastor Lee is a part of the group and there are 7 ladies. We have had another man in our group and would welcome some men and younger people.

Expectations are comfortable (people participate as they are able), and mentoring is provided. We have a devotional study time to enhance our skills and feed us spiritually.

If you would like more information or discuss the possibilities please call Janice Hawkings. Other members would also welcome your questions, and they are: Pat Kaack, Berva Huber, Wilma Claussen, Pat Farn, Linda Kay and Ruth Peterson, as well as Pastor Lee.

Small Group Updates

If you are a college or career focussed adult looking for a group of peers, LCOS might have just the group for you!

We have no official name yet, we have no set terms or times, but we have been meeting about once per month for board games, drinks, food, and fel-lowship. We are a laid back and friendly group, and we are open to new ideas

and new people! Whether you are one time visitors or looking to be long term members, we welcome you to join us as we continue forming our identity as a group and

building friendships. For details about our next planned meeting time and location, contact Laura or Jayne in the office.

Flock Care: Is This Ministry For You?

As an afternoon service project we will be

helping with sorting and organizing for the

LCOS Operation Christmas Child

‘work-bee’ on November 22.

(ie: putting together sewing kits, etc.)

Snacks and high fives provided.

Saturday November 15th, 1:00 - 4:00

pm

@ Lutheran

Children & Family Ministry October was a busy month for Children’s, Youth, and Family Ministry at LCOS! I love busy, so I loved Oc-

tober. The youth had a pretty active start to October when we competed in some mattress races! What are mat-tress races you might ask? Well they are an extraordinary feat of stealth, cunning, and athleticism were the youth were split into teams (boys versus girls at this one!) . These teams had to carry a mattress from Point A and get back to the church, Point B, without being caught too many times by the leaders who are the ‘time-out police’ kind of… It was tons of fun for both leaders and youth! Youth also had a games night: “family feud” style. We are pilot project-ing having a youth games night the 4th Friday of every month during the fall, and so far so good! The next one is BYOGame on Friday November 28th. Other exciting events include the annual youth lock-in at the end of the month, October 31-November 1. This year we will be trick or treating for the Veteran’s food bank as well as having other typical shenanigans.

The young explorer’s ‘tweens group has been up to some fun as well! Once per month we have had an event for grades 4-6; we have been teaming up with Southwinds Church from Cranston to make these events bigger and better. Our last event was going to the corn maze at night; fun times with flashlights. Our next event is Saturday November 15th “A Heart to Serve” – where we will be helping with operation Christmas child pre-packing. Serve Saturdays are the best!

As our focus on stewardship came to a close both the young explorers and the youth programs contribut-ed to making a “gifting” tree in the fellowship hall. This tree is based upon the scripture James 1:17, “Every good and perfect gift is from above”. Please feel free to add a leaf to this tree filled of gifts and thanksgiving, it will be up for several more weeks. Our family harvest craft was also geared around this theme – you may have seen us in the fellowship hall making ‘family trees of thanksgiving’. Thank you for your ongoing support of these ministries at LCOS, your encouragement means so much. Check out the calendar and/or the bulletin for other upcoming youth, young explorer’s, or family events.

Have a wonderful November everyone!

Blessings,

Jayne

Request for Guest Writers!!!

Do you have something you would like to con-tribute to our monthly Vine? LCOS is looking

for guest writers to share articles in order to add to the depth and breadth of our contributors in

the church community.

Do you have used, but still functional cell phones

cluttering up your desk?

The Brenda Stafford Center is continually in need of phones for women

as they learn to adjust to a new way of life. To assist these women and

their continued need for safety and security, your used cell phone can be

put to good use! Drop off in the donation center. Thanks!!

FAMILY PHOTOS!!

LCOS strives to be a warm and welcoming

community. We have a board in the foyer

with family pictures so that we can put

names and faces together and get to know

one another better. If you or your family do

not have a picture on our front board or if

you’d like to update your existing picture,

please email a photo to the office by Nov.

15th so we can stay up to date. Thanks!

Lion’s Eyebank

In the donation cupboard, on the top shelf (if you are short ask a tall per-son to reach) you will find the box for the eyeglass collection. There is al-ways a need for your discarded eyeglasses. Just put them in a Zip Lock bag and drop them in the box. You are sending them on an excellent adven-ture!

Operation Eyesight

The Gideons International has sent us a card rack with greeting

cards for various occasions, including birthdays, sympathy, anni-

versaries, and ‘thinking of you.’ These Gideon Expressions cards

are a fundraising effort for the Gideons organization, which has

for many years been involved in putting the Bible into the hands

of those who otherwise might never have the opportunity. To participate in this fundraiser,

simply give a card from the selection of cards which are in the church foyer, donate accord-

ing to the instructions given within the card (online, by phone, or by mail), and help change

a life! As little as $3.00 can place a Bible. Around the world, the Gideons are well known

for their hotel bibles, but their primary efforts are actually

geared toward sharing Scripture in schools, colleges, prisons,

hospitals, and medical offices. So far, they have placed 1.9 bil-

lions Bibles around the world!!

Art Jenkins, the founder of Operation Eyesight, would be proud to see how his family has car-ried on his vision. This international organization is bringing sight to people in Africa and India and is supported by all of us, the donors. If you want to see the smiling faces of the Indian and African patients, international staff and boards members, go to: youtube.com/user/OpEyesightUniversal to watch a video that guarantees a smile.

To donate call 403-283-6323 or go on line at www.operationeyesight.com

http://www.operationeyesight.com

MOPS (Mothers of Pre-Schoolers) and MOPSnext (Mothers of School Age Children) is an international organization geared to-ward supplying support for Moms. MOPS creates a time-out for Moms filled with fun, food, learning, fellowship, and faith while their kids have fun in MOPPETs; the childcare program. Join us on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays every month from 9:30-11:30.

November at MOPS is all about you! On Nov 12th, video clips and discussion from this year’s theme” Be you bravely” is followed with “you time” on Nov 26th when you can focus on something you need to get done, or just relax and socialize. More information, in-cluding registration forms and pricing, is available from the LCOS website:

http://www.oursaviourchurch.ca/#/connect/mops-momsnext

or email [email protected] to get connected.

Discipleship Program in Progress!

Discipleship is a two year program for students in

Grades 7&8. Pastor Lee will be meeting with the stu-

dents twice per month on Sunday evenings from Fall

until Spring. They will explore the Bible, the Creeds,

the life of Jesus, what it means to be Lutheran, and

many tough questions along the way. Check the cal-

endar for meeting times. If your youth or friends from

outside the congregation are interested in this oppor-

tunity, please see Pastor Lee.

From November 14th-16th, the Discipleship group

will be attending a Discipleship Retreat at Camp Ku-

riakos with Pastor Lee. Remember to be in prayer for

the youth as they enjoy this experience of fun and

fellowship.

Ephesians 3:20-21 (NRSV): "Now to him who by the power at work within us is able to accomplish abundantly far more than all we can ask or imagine, to him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen.”

These encouraging words from the apostle Paul are truly words of blessing. God is able to do far more than anything we are able to ask or even think about asking for. And perhaps even more amazingly, God chooses to work through us to accomplish more than we can imagine.

November 2nd will be the beginning of a four week stewardship emphasis for our congrega-tion called Fearless Generosity. We will learn how to become more faithful stewards as we explore what it means to practice fearless liv-ing, fearless service, fearless sowing, and fear-less giving.

Each week we will focus on one of these con-cepts during worship in creative and inviting ways. We hope you will be present each week. And then, on November 23, we will join togeth-er to present our estimates or commitments of giving in support of the ministry and mission to which we are called as the LCOS congregation.

As we strive to practice fearless generosity, we can remember Paul’s blessing to the church in Ephesians 3:20, 21. Using us as willing ves-sels, God through the Holy Spirit—the power at work within us—is able to accomplish abundantly far more than we can ask or imagine. In your personal prayers and as you gather in fellowship with others, please re-member to invite God’s guidance through this special emphasis. May Paul’s prayer for the church at Ephesus be our prayer as we begin this exciting time of exploring how God is calling us to be fearless givers and fear-less stewards—as individuals and as a community of faith.

In Christian Fellowship, Cliff Blumhagen Financial Secretary

Stewardship 2014: Fearless Generosity

Finance: (Purpose: To manage the financial affairs in compliance with Revenue Canada’s Act and the Our

Saviour Constitution)

Financial Secretary’s Report: September 2014

Offering: Received—Budget $ 30,241.41

Designated $1,125.00

Total Receipts $ 32,993.91

Average Sunday Attendance: 219

OPERATIONS

QUARTERLY REPORT: YTD - 2014 YTD - 2013

Budgeted Giving $255,325.92 $265,744.11

Designated Giving $25,577.46 $18,142.00

Non-Receiptable / Credit $2,601.94 $13,944.11

Other Income $9,209.90 $10,793.13

TOTAL $292,715.22 $308,623.35

Average Weekly Budget Offering $6,546.82 $6,813.95

Average Weekly Budget Required $7,073.00 $7,270.00

PAR Giving (included in above total) $41,240.00 $40,750.00

Number of envelopes issued 173 165

Number of envelopes unused 16 10

Number of pledges (budget) 82 83

Number on or over pledge (budget) 43 39

Number under pledge (budget) 39 44

Average Weekly Attendance 178 176

Comments:

Year to date budgeted giving for 2014 is 3.92% lower than 2013.

Cliff Blumhagen

Men’s Retreat

Harald's Heroes Weekend 2 LCOS Men's Retreat 2014

Over the weekend of October 3rd to 5th, five men from LCOS journeyed together at Baker Creek Cha-lets in Banff National Park for the second annual Men's Retreat. The weather was great, the fellowship and conversation fantastic, the scenery beautiful, the hiking enjoyable and the food wonderful. We wandered the woods around the cabins; hiked from Moraine Lake to Consolation Lake and visited the memorial commemorating the internment of immi-grants from the Austro-Hungarian Empire during the First World War.

We'd start conversations just after dinner and wind them down after midnight. Amazing to learn about others and hear their stories. And, though it was cloudy and rained the first night, the second night was clear and the star cover impressive and beautiful. Just a great experience. Thank you Les, Cliff, Lloyd and Doug for making this journey so wonderful. Next years Men's Retreat will be over the weekend of October 2nd to 4th, again at Baker Creek Chalets. Please consider being part of it.

Calgary Poppy Fund &

Veteran’s Food Bank Fact Sheet

We support Veterans, and their dependents who are in need, regardless of their age.

All of our Veterans are entitled to a four box hamper set (value $400.00) along with $300.00 gift cards to

purchase fresh veggies, milk etc. which they are eligible for every two months. Some of the money donated

goes towards the purchase of gift cards.

An average of 90 hampers per month given out and they can be picked up or delivered.

Annual cost for vouchers could reach $400,000.00 this year.

A portion of the funds collected goes towards re-stocking our shelves.

Gift bags for our Veterans in hospital or nursing homes.

Baby food, diapers and other items need for our younger Veterans with children.

We have a few Veterans that require special food items that we purchase for them.

We purchase aids to daily living items (such as walkers, scooters, wheelchairs, canes and bath aids) bus

passes, compression stockings, as well as major expenses such as hearing aids, prescription medicine,

medical equipment, Lifeline, shelter, dental, eye care, or any other medical costs they may incur

If any Veteran is in need of assistance with bills such as shelter costs, utilities etc. we support them with

these issues. We provide lawn care, snow shoveling and housekeeping as well as maintenance for their

homes to e sure our Veterans can remain in the homes.

Up to $3000.00 in bursaries for Veterans and their children or grandchildren for education purposes.

Basically anything they require assistance with we provide all services to them.

Subsidize Meals on Wheels up to $5.00 per day.

Hospital parking passes given to Legion branches & Veterans for appointments or visiting.

Major expenses could reach over $450,000 this year.

The Calgary Poppy Fund & Veterans Food Bank is community minded and supports other organizations.

Calgary Poppy Fund #1, 4539 – 6th St. NE, Calgary, Alberta T2E 3Z6

Phone: (403) 265-6304 Fax: (403) 264-3892 Email: [email protected]

This Christmas season, consider working with us as a church to sup-

port the work of the Calgary Poppy Fund and the Veteran’s Food Bank.

Boxes for donation are in the lobby near the donation center.

MOST NEEDED ITEMS: Canned Salmon Soup Instant potatoes Canned Ham Canned Milk Stove Top Dressing Corned Lunch Meat Jello/Pudding Rice Corned Beef Ketchup,mustard, relish Assorted Candy Hamburger/Tuna Helper Pickles Chocolate Pancake Mix and Syrup Dish Soap Popcorn Sidekicks/Bistro Cake Mix, Muffin Mix Granola Bars Sardines Tea and Coffee, Hot Chocolate Soda Crackers, variety Pasta cookies Canned Fruit Canned Stew, Chili, Pasta Cereal, instant porridge Juice Oysters Coffee Whitener Kleenex, toilet paper Cream Corn Toothpaste/toothbrushes Bar soap, body wash Canned Veggies Shampoo/Conditioner Meat Spread Jam, Peanut Butter Deodorant

.

LCOS has options for you to continue

with your generous offerings.

Get on PAR (Pre-Authorized Remittance) at LCOS

Did you know that you may give to LCOS via pre-authorized remittance one time per month from your bank or

credit union chequing account? This program is like any other pre-authorized debit program and is called the

PAR (Pre-Authorized Remittance) program. Debits will be drawn from accounts on the 20th of each month.

Whenever the 20th falls on a weekend or holiday, the debits will be drawn on the first business day following

the 20th. Donations via the PAR program will be recorded on quarterly statements and year-end tax receipts

along with all other giving.

Amounts from Par can be directed to:

1) The LCOS general budget

2) Canadian Lutheran World Relief (CLWR)

3) Mortgage debt reduction

You can give additional amounts and to other purposes via your regular donation envelopes.

The minimum amount to give via this program is a total of $50.00 per month.

You can sign up, make banking or donation amount changes, or withdraw from the program at any time. These

changes will be effective the month following the submission of the change. Forms are available to process

these changes. The program is administered by the Financial Secretary.

Authorization forms are available in the Place of Welcome

Internet e-transfers are also available!

To make a one time or recurring email transfer of money, you can send donations to

[email protected]. Please include either your envelope number or your name

and address in the email so that we can give you a proper receipt at the year’s end.

mailto:[email protected]

Do You Think “Theologically?” by Laura Jordan

Hi There!

Some of you know me, and some of you don’t...I am Laura Jordan, and I have been working in the church

office for several months now. You may have also met my lovely pup, Lila, who comes to the office sometimes and

helps me with my work. This Fall, I will be teaching Adult Bible Study, and I’ve decided to take a risk...ready?

Between now and Christmas I would like to take a look through a book called How to Think Theologically, by

Howard W. Stone and James O. Duke.

I am guessing that some of you may be intrigued by this title, and many others may feel inclined to run in the

other direction when you hear the word ‘theology.’ I am working on a PhD in Theology, and some of the most

common responses when I tell people what I study are shock, confusion, and avoidance. Many people do not

feel like they understand theology, or they assume it is only for “ivory tower academics” who

aren’t in touch with the real world and real problems. To be honest, there is probably a good reason for

making this assumption—much theological speech is full of difficult technical language and abstract philosophical

concepts that can seem to be very far from our every day concerns. Many times, academic theologians are guilty of

perpetuating this reputation. So first I would like to say: “Guilty as charged!” But second, and more importantly, I

want to say: “Let’s work toward changing this reputation!!”

Through the course of studying this short book, I would really like us to address some of the reasons why

“thinking theologically” is not only important, but in fact, unavoidable. As Christians, we think about God, our-

selves, and the world around us...and guess what? When we think about God and his world, we are thinking theo-

logically! When we make decisions throughout our days and we consider our beliefs and convictions, we are think-

ing theologically. When we read our Bibles, we are thinking theologically. The truth is, most of us probably think

and act on our theology on a daily basis, even though we may not be consciously understanding it that way. But I

would like to make the case that as Christians living in the world, it is worth our while to take a bit of

time to reflect on the underlying process behind our thinking about God and our ethical decision

making. After all, if we are already thinking theologically, we

may as well learn a bit about how the process works.

I recognize that some people may feel hesitant to join in

the Sunday classes, but I would encourage anyone who is inter-

ested to take a risk with me and drop in for some stimulating dis-

cussion about theology and why it is important. There is no pres-

sure to attend every week, and you do not need to pre-read eve-

ry week if you don’t have time. Everyone is welcome and it

would be great to see some new faces! If you would like a

copy of the book, contact me in the office. Hope to see you in

the Fireside Room on Sunday mornings at 10:00am!

Canadian Lutheran World Relief has released their “Gifts from the Heart” cat-

alogue...please pick one up in the foyer and see what your donation can ac-

complish for the developing world this Christmas season. From supplying wa-

ter to a refugee camp to training a local nurse to providing fishnets and seed

potatoes, our small gifts can contribute meaningfully to others and provide

practical help and hope for their future.

Lutheran Hospital Ministries Needs Your Help!

There are many opportunities to serve the Lord

and be a blessing to others through the "ministry

of presence" in visitation work in our area hospi-

tals and care centres. The numbers of hospitals

and care centres are expanding in our city, and in

order to fulfill our mandate "To Visit the Sick", we

need more volunteers. For more information on

volunteering and training, please contact Pastor

Mark Lobitz, Director of Pastoral Care, at (403)

637-2650 or [email protected].

We will be serving Breakfast at the Mustard Seed for

325-375 people on November 1st, starting at 6am.

Please contact Ken Farn for more details!

mailto:[email protected]

November 2014 Message for Congregations and Lay and Rostered Leaders

Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ –

May grace and peace be yours in abundance (I Peter 1:2a).

In February I began a series of brief articles on the Marks of a Mis-sional Congregation relying heavily on Stephen P. Bouman’s, The Mission Table: Renewing Congregation & Community (© 2013 Augsburg Fortress).

Each article includes Scripture, questions for reflection and discus-sion, and a prayer. Perhaps your church council, adult study, youth group, coffee group will use these monthly writings as a time to engage in learning, discernment and reflection together. Previous month’s articles are available on the synod website: www.albertasynod.ca

A congregation in mission is clear about money and relationships.

“They gave themselves first to the Lord and, by the will of God, to us” (2 Corinthians 8:5). This brief sentence depicting the offering of the Macedonian Christians gets to the heart of what is at stake in the financial support and stewardship of the church and each of its disciples. Money and the offering of the Macedonian Chris-tians are a referendum on relationships. Priorities are clarified this is a spiritual issue.

By examining 2 Corinthians 8:1-5 more closely, we see that this is a text for a time such as ours. Paul is in conflict with the church in Corinth. In fact, relations had soured between Paul and the Co-rinthian church after his first letter to them. He was accused of being too bold in his letters but too weak in person. Things had deteriorated to the point where Paul decided to cancel a planned visit (so as not to stoke the controversy) and to send a letter in-stead. In 2 Corinthians 2 Paul refers to this letter as one “with many tears” (vs. 4).

Painful visits. Letters with tears. Conflict. A lousy economy and the suffering poor. Does this sound at all similar to our time? Congregations that are experiencing declining membership and resources, including money, can become anxious. This anxiety can lead to conflict.

And at a time like this, when the church in Corinth was in conflict and the churches in Jerusalem and Macedonia were experiencing extreme poverty and suffering, at exactly this auspicious time, Paul decided to take an offering!

“Now concerning the collection for the saints: you should follow the directions I gave to the churches of Galatia. On the first day of every week, each of you is to put aside and save whatever ex-tra you earn, so that collections need not be taken when I come. And when I arrive, I will send any whom you approve with letters to take your gift to Jerusalem” (I Corinthians 16:1-13).

Seeing clearly the context of Paul’s appeal, its spiritual frame-work, is very important. The congregation is fighting, in conflict. Paul is not shy about that. But they are still ambassadors. They still have the ministry of reconciliation entrusted to them. The

resurrection has changed everything. And, likewise, because of our renewed relationships through forgiveness and repentance, we rejoice. Our mutual pa-tience and endurance in Christ give us complet-ed confidence in one another by the grace of God. Paul has confidence in the Corinthians. God has confidence in us. God’s confidence becomes our own.

And these relationships are solidified in our relationships with God, who joins us together and who provides the resources needed.

In 2 Corinthians 8, notice that when Paul describes the situation of the Macedonian Christians, he begins with the grace of God. The grace of God is the only reason we talk about stewardship. The Greek word for grace, charis, is used four times in this text. The Macedonians’ opportunity to give and their willingness to give are described as charis, grace.

Read and Reflect: 2 Corinthians 8:1-5

Discuss and Reflect:

What in this reading leads you to say, “I wonder about…?”, or, “I noticed…?”

Share a time when you were grateful for some way God acted in your life or the life of a loved one.

How did your gratitude give way to thanksgiving and sharing yourself and/or your resources with others in some way?

Comment on the following: the grace of God is the only reason we talk about stewardship.

Pray together: Almighty and eternal God, so draw our hearts to you, so guide our minds, so fill our imaginations, so control our wills, that we may be wholly yours, utterly dedicated to you; and then use us, we pray, as you will, but always to your glory and the welfare of your people,

through our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. Amen. (Commitment, Evangelical Lutheran Worship, p. 86)

The God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit (Romans 15:13).

In Christ Jesus – Shalom, +Larry The Rev. Dr. Larry Kochendorfer, Bishop Synod of Alberta and the Territories Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada

November Message for Congregations

http://www.albertasynod.ca

Freddie Feelgood (and His Funny Little Fine Peace of Mind) We give. We recycle. We sit in pews and listen to the words. We sing the songs. We send the shoe boxes. And we feel good. And all of this is good. But is it enough? Does it reach and help as much as it could? Or is it possibly just us feeling good? Continue to give. What you give is a blessing to someone. Listen to the needs and give to meet them. Give because you want to help someone not because it is something you no longer need or use. Give your best to the Lord. Continue recycling. Recycling is good. But it doesn't solve the problem of over-consumption and the over-production and pollution that goes with it. Most recycled items end up being made into something else. So production of new bottles, new cans, etc. continues at the same or higher rate. And not all that we put into recycle bins gets recycled. Some can't be recycled or are too contaminated to be pro-cessed. This all goes into the landfill. And much of the recycling is sent overseas for processing adding the cost of transportation emissions to the mix. Reusing items and reducing consumption would be a better way to go. Continue to sit in pews and listen to the words. Hear what is being said, hear how to help, hear what is needed by others. Then go and act on the words. Go and help where you are needed. Give what is needed. Invite others to attend the services. Take the word to those who don't attend services. Live the words everyday, everywhere. Let everyone see the Lord in you. Continue to sing the songs. Rejoice and be glad. Smile the lyrics at someone. Be passionate in wor-ship. And beyond. Continue sending the shoe boxes. The items are a wonder-ful gift to people with little and the love is priceless. But buying the items here puts the money into our economy. Find a way to also support local economies. Invest in mi-croloans through agencies like Kiva; buy from stores and charities that return the money to the communities they are working with; support fair trade and support organizations that provide educational opportunities to those with little or no hope of getting an education. Continue to give. Continue to recycle. Continue to sit in pews and listen to the words. Continue to sing the songs. Continue to send the shoe boxes. Continue feeling good about it. And then go beyond. Shalom

Social Justice by Ron Bennett

From the perspective of "El Salvador", Jesus of Nazareth

might seem hopelessly naive . . . or naively hopeful. Until

quite recently, it seemed impossible to imagine a Salva-

doran prodigal son returning home. But then, a collective

Prodigal Son, thousands strong, did return home, from

their far-off land. The challenge was then to imagine a

Prodigal Father, welcoming this prodigal son home with

open arms. Then--amazing grace--that too happened. So,

the problem now is not that the Prodigal Son would never

return, nor that the Prodigal Father would not be

found. The problem is that the older brother isn't allowing

the prodigal father to stretch out his arms and lovingly re-

ceive his prodigal son back into the family home, much

less celebrate his homecoming with a fatted calf.

This older son, under a veneer of respectability and "legality"--dutifully living according to innumerable rules--

rounded up the extended family and numerous neighbors, together, sanctimoniously, shutting the gate in

this prodigal brother's face, ensuring that he could never enter the family home. This older brother and com-

pany were intent on convincing themselves, and all around them, that there had been no real change, that

the prodigal son was the same as he'd always been, the same as when he left home, and that his presence

would be more of a burden than could be tolerated. Their prevailing "wisdom" is that these prodigal compat-

riots/brothers/sisters are to be shunned totally, left well outside the gate. Nobody is to speak to them,

much less dialogue with them, neither family nor neighbors, media nor mediators. "Dialogue" has become a

swearword, totally taboo, as it was in the days of martyred Jesuit priests Ellacuria and colleagues, whose

prodigal father-like faithfulness provoked their martyrdom.

Eventually, the Salvadoran prodigal brother returned to his far-off land, where he went back to living with his

own "family", and by his own rules.

Shortly after this amazing March 2012 homecoming phenomenon--the national truce between El Salvador's primary

gangs, Mara Salvatrucha and Barrio 18--an informal mini-survey was conducted as to whether anyone was aware of a

similar kind of surprise--an entire gang population declaring a national truce and asking forgiveness from the entire

nation--having happened sometime in history, somewhere on this planet. A couple responses spoke of more individu-

al cases of repentance and homecoming. There was one account of a revival-type scenario in a prison setting, though

not linked to any particular truce or reconciliation or peace process.

Other comparable scenarios have come to light.

An excerpt from a "Healing of Memories" seminar in Rwanda, 10 years after the genocide, tells of such corporate re-

pentance:

" . . . we met a group of thirteen hundred young adults on the eve of their release back into the community. Most were

A Parable of Prodigals by Rev. Brian Rude

contrite, and as we arrived they sang songs about returning home and not knowing whom they would find. All of them

were minors at the time they participated in the genocide, and some were shockingly young. They had simply been

swept up in the maelstrom, and many of them are still profoundly haunted by the very terrible things they had

done. They feel a great sense of sorrow, and they don't want to rot in prison; they want to find a way to be part of creat-

ing a different kind of society. As we left, these young people were singing their hearts out about their commitment to

rebuild Rwanda with their own hands. I prayed that they would find the space to make that contribution. Their future

remains uncertain, because it is asking a great deal of people in their communities to accept back the very individuals

who may have killed their mother, father, brother, or sister, and then to continue as if life is normal." ( Fr. Michael

Lapsley, Redeeming the Past: My Journey from Freedom Fighter to Healer", 2012, 192 ).

In the past decade, Los Ñetas and Los Latin Kings, as part of their truce and peace process from 2005-2009, in Ecua-

dor and Spain, asked for pardon from their victims and asked that they be given work, because they wanted to become

part of the economically active population.

In El Salvador, the gang truce held stable remarkably well for an entire year, in terms of the much lower homicide rate

(5 or 6 daily, down from 14 pre-truce). Since mid-2013, that rate has crept back up to the current 10.4, which, along

with extortion rates which have not dropped significantly, have led many Salvadorans, from the general public to the

attorney general to the archbishop, to declare the truce dead. The term "truce" itself took on a most negative connota-

tion early on.

Working in non-gang prisons, I saw, and still see, the positive effects of the truce and peace process every day, thanks

to an ongoing atmosphere of respect and trust at all levels, reduced confrontation and violence, freedom from massa-

cres and riots. So the truce and peace process have made a tremendous positive difference in these prison settings.

The ecumenical faith response, "Initiative for Life and Peace" (IPAZ), launched initially in November, 2012, also waned,

or withdrew, through much of 2013 and early 2014. It has been revived as of May, showing greater promise for com-

mitted accompaniment of this peace process, proposing triangular dialogue: IPAZ and society in general with all

branches of government; dialogue between the rival gangs; dialogue between the gangs and IPAZ.

Most of the attention, at all levels, had been focused on the truce between the two primary gangs and the peace pro-

cess which evolved out of that, extending to 11 municipalities, officially. Its extension to numerous "civilian" (non-gang)

prisons, while receiving reasonable press cover-

age for the first year, never captured the public

imagination. The public was more drawn to pris-

on news when it was

spiked with violence and

blood.

Criticism of this process

revolved around the lack

of transparency and the

mystery as to whether or

not the government was

behind it, or involved at

all, and, if so, at what lev-

el. There was considerable public pressure to

shut gang youth out of society--exclusion that had

been their cross to bear all their lives--a goal

A Parable of Prodigals cont ….

Prison inmates at

"Mariona" (La Esperanza)

turn over weapons during

the 2013 truce /

pacification process

A Parable of Prodigals ...conclusion

whose success was ensured by blocking media access in prisons once again. There are numerous ways in which this pac-

ification process could be improved, such as being more inclusive of all sectors of society, taking all into account, includ-

ing women and youth themselves, both gang and non-gang. Colonial-style machismo will hopefully be overcome in its nu-

merous manifestations as this peace process evolves.

Little connection is made between the violence of 2014 and the unresolved violence and war crimes of 1970 -

1992. Resolution of the present crisis without addressing the earlier blight on Salvadoran history, a pending task which

sparks considerable resistance, makes an uphill battle even more daunting.

There is growing awareness that the ongoing economic crisis, historic and current, limiting the necessary resources and

provoking marginalization and exclusion, must be addressed. There is considerable resistance to the significant fiscal

reform which will be needed to include all youth in society and thus reduce the delinquent violence and insecurity which

plagues all of society.

The definition and analysis of the identity of "victimizers" needs to be broadened beyond gang perpetrators to other mani-

festations of organized crime operating, for the most part, behind the scenes. Some significant cases have emerged in

2014. Salvadorans and others are eagerly waiting to see if the legislative branch of government will respect due process

and pursue justice in these cases, in spite of numerous setbacks over the past months.

As of June, 2014, with the inauguration of the new government, a renewed attempt is being made to revive and redirect

the nation's peace-making energy. The broader government-initiated response officially launched the multi-sectorial

"Consejo Nacional de Seguridad Ciudadana y Convivencia" (National Council of Citizen Security and Coexistence) on 29

September.

While El Salvador is not yet slaughtering the fatted calf to celebrate the prodigal son's return, the prodigal father is once

again heading down the road to welcome his prodigal son home, inspired by the vision of diplomatically persuading the

elder son to join in the party, celebrating potential family re-unification.

Rev. Brian Rude, DD

"In Mission with El Salvador" / "En Mision con El Salvador"

Synod of Alberta and the Territories, of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada

“When Peace Like a River” By: Gordon Brandstadt

This favourite hymn of hope was written by Horatio Spafford (1828-1888) in 1873, when he and his family

were going through a very sad and difficult period.

He was a successful and wealthy Chicago lawyer, who was also a devout Christian (Presbyterian) and a stu-

dent of the Bible. Among his friends were evangelists Dwight Moody, Ira Sankey and others. He and his wife An-

na Larsen (of Stavanger, Norway) had 4 daughters and a son. The son died of scarlet fever in 1870.

Spafford was heavily invested in Chicago real estate, when on October 8, 1871 the great Chicago Fire de-

stroyed most of his real estate holdings.

In 1873, he planned a boat trip to England for his family to help them recover from the tragedies of the previ-

ous 3 years, and he also wanted to join Moody and Sankey on an evangelistic campaign in England. Unex-

pected business kept him in Chicago at the last minute, but Anna and the girls began the trip on the ship Ville du

Havre. Several days later he received word that the ship had collided with another ship and sunk. The 4 daugh-

ters drowned but he received a telegram from Anna: “Saved alone....”

Spafford left immediately to join his wife in England. When the ship he was traveling on reached the area

where his daughters had drowned, the captain pointed this out to him. Within a few hours, he was inspired to

write this hymn, which contains the words “When sorrows like sea billows roll,...it is well, it is well with my soul.”

The tune Ville du Havre was composed by Philip Bliss (1838-1876). The second most famous Christian song

writer in history was so impressed by Spafford’s life and the words of this hymn that he composed the moving

music that accompanies it. The song was published by Bliss and Sankey in 1876. ELW and some other hym-

nals call this tune It is Well.

The Spaffords later had 3 more children, but a second son died aged 4 also of scarlet fever in 1880. By now

their Presbyterian church had decided their tragedies were divine punishment, and in response the Spaffords

formed a Messianic sect.

In 1881, with 3-year-old Ber-

tha and newborn Grace, they

moved to Israel. In Jerusalem,

they helped found a group

called the American colony

(later joined by Swedish Chris-

tians); whose mission was to

serve the poor, whether Mus-

lim, Jewish or Christian and

without proselytising. Selma

Lagerlöf, Swedish Nobel Prize

winner, based her novel Jerusa-

lem on the story of this colony.

Horatio Spafford died of ma-

laria 4 days before his 60th

birthday.

Sources: www.The stories be-

hind the hymns – Sharefaith:

Wikipedia—EvLW 785, LBW

346

http://www.The

November 29th—Come and join us in making Advent corsages at 10 am. A great time

for fellowship.

November 30th - Family Advent Craft. All families are encouraged to join us in the Fellow-

ship Hall for this Annual Family Event.

November 30th until December 14th—Donate to the Giving Tree. This year LCOS is ask-

ing for donations of mittens and scarves and small afghans for the Ronald McDonald House, blankets

will go to Canadian Lutheran World Relief and socks will go to the Mustard Seed.

December 1 Ladies Potluck—Last year’s secret prayer partner will be revealed and a new one

chosen for those wishing to participate. Come and have a relaxing evening among old and new

friends.

December 6th—Tween Event—Tobogganing Party

December 7th Service of Remembrance & Healing—The holiday season can be difficult for

those missing loved ones. Join us this evening for a service to remember loved ones lost.

December 14th—Deadline to contribute to the Poinsettia fund for decorating the Al-

tar on Christmas Eve.

December 20th—The Experiment Christmas Party—Travelling black tie supper.

December 21st—Family Christmas Pageant at the 11:00 am Service

December 21st—Evening of Carols

December 24th— Candlelight Worship Services at 4:00, 6:00 and 8:00 pm

December 25th—No Worship Service this day

December 28th—One Service at 10:00 am

December 28th—Last day to donate and receive a 2014 tax receipt

Our 4th Annual Work Bee is

November 22th 10 am to 1 pm We will be packing boxes for Operation Christmas Child

Last year we packed 1008 boxes! What can we do this year?!?

Prior to November 22nd

Candy Needed!

Please look for candy on sale after Halloween. Hard candy & Rockets are great. No soft candy or gum please.

Go Shopping!

School Supplies - Items such as pencils, pens, pencil crayons, note pads, and picture books

Toys & Other Gifts- Items such as stuffed animals, small musical instruments, hair clips, toy jewelry, t-shirts,

socks, skipping ropes, and balls

Soap, toothbrushes & facecloths are the most needed items. Please place soap in a sealable bag

Prepare a personal Note - Include a personal note and/or a photo in your shoe box (not inside the donation

envelope)

Sign-Up!

Please sign up for the amazingly fun Nov 22 work bee, and list already purchased items. Sign-up sheets are

on the bulletin board beside the kitchen. Call Jaqui Anderson for more information 403-453-4071

Don’t like to shop? Consider donating $7.00 per box to help with shipping.

If you would prefer to fill your own shoebox at home, please have the boxes dropped off no later than Sunday

December 7th. Earlier is better.

Please do not include:

Toothpaste (due to customs regulations), food and any chewy, crumbly, or soft candy: Including gum (due to

customs regulations), used items (due to customs regulations), playing cards (other card games such as UNO

Read the Bible thru in a year: November

01

Ezekiel 1:1-3:15 Hebrews 3:1-19 Psalm 104:1-23 Proverbs 26:24-26

02

Ezekiel 3:16-6:14 Hebrews 4:1-16 Psalm 104:24-35 Proverbs 26:27

03


04


05


06


07


08


09

Ezekiel 20:1-49 Hebrews 9:11-28 Psalm 107:1-43 Proverbs 27:11

10


11

Ezekiel 23:1-49 He-brews 10:18-39 Psalm 109:1-31 Proverbs 27:13

12

Ezekiel 24:1-26:21 Hebrews 11:1-16 Psalm 110:1-7

Proverbs 27:14

13


14

Ezekiel 29:1-30:26 Hebrews 11:32-12:13

Psalm 112:1-10 Proverbs 27:17

15

Ezekiel 31:1-32:32 Hebrews 12:14-29 Psalm 113:1-114:8 Proverbs 27:18-20

16


17

Ezekiel 35:1-36:38 James 1:1-18 Psalm 116:1-19 Proverbs 27:23-27

18

Ezekiel 37:1-38:23 James 1:19-2:17 Psalm 117:1-2

Proverbs 28:1

19

Ezekiel 39:1-40:27 James 2:18-3:18 Psalm 118:1-18 Proverbs 28:2

20

Ezekiel 40:28-41:26

James 4:1-17

Psalm 118:19-29 Proverbs 28:3-5

21

Ezekiel 42:1-43:27 James 5:1-20


22

Ezekiel 44:1-45:12 1 Peter 1:1-12


23

Ezekiel 45:13-46:24 1 Peter 1:13-2:10 Psalm 119:33-48 Proverbs 28:11

24

Ezekiel 47:1-48:35 1 Peter 2:11-3:7

Psalm 119:49-64 Proverbs 28:12-13

25

Daniel 1:1-2:23 1

Peter 3:8-4:6

Psalm 119:65-80

Proverbs 28:14

26

Daniel 2:24-3:30

1 Peter 4:7-5:14

Psalm 119:81-96

Proverbs 28:15-16

27

Daniel 4:1-37 2

Peter 1:1-21

Psalm 119:97-112

Proverbs 28:17-18

28

Daniel 5:1-31 2

Peter 2:1-22

Psalm 119:113-

128

Proverbs 28:19-20

29

Daniel 6:1-28 2

Peter 3:1-18

Psalm 119:129-

152

Proverbs 28:21-22

30

Daniel 7:1-28 1

John 1:1-10

Psalm 119:153-

176

Proverbs 28:23-24

Read the Bible thru in a year: December

01

Daniel 8:1-27 1 John 2:1-17


02

Daniel 9:1-11:1 1 John 2:18-3:6 Psalm 121:1-8 Proverbs 28:27-28

03

Daniel 11:2-35 1 John 3:7-24

Psalm 122:1-9 Proverbs 29:1

04

Daniel 11:36-12:13 1 John 4:1-21 Psalm 123:1-4 Proverbs 29:2-4

05

Hosea 1:1-3:5 1 John 5:1-21


06

Hosea 4:1-5:15 2 John 1:1-13


07

Hosea 6:1-9:17 3 John 1:1-14


08

Hosea 10:1-14:9 Jude 1:1-25 Psalm 127:1-5 Proverbs 29:15-17

09

Joel 1:1-3:21

Revelation 1:1-20 Psalm 128:1-6

Proverbs 29:18

10

Amos 1:1-3:15


Proverbs 29:19-20

11

Amos 4:1-6:14

Revelation 2:18-3:6 Psalm 130:1-8

Proverbs 29:21-22

12

Amos 7:1-9:15


Proverbs 29:23

13

Obadiah 1:1-21


Proverbs 29:24-25

14

Jonah 1:1-4-11


Proverbs 29:26-27

15

Micah 1:1-4:13


Proverbs 30:1-4

16

Micah 5:1-7:20 Reve-lation 7:1-17 Psalm 135:1-21 Proverbs 30:5-6

17

Nahum 1:1-3:19 Rev-elation 8:1-13 Psalm 136:1-26 Proverbs 30:7-9

18

Habakkuk 1:1-3:19

Revelation 9:1-21

Psalm 137:1-9

Proverbs 30:10

19

Zephaniah 1:1-3:20

Revelation 10:1-11

Psalm 138:1-8

Proverbs 30:11-14

20

Haggai 1:1-2:23

Revelation 11:1-19

Psalm 139:1-24

Proverbs 30:15-16

21

Zechariah 1:1-21

Revelation 12:1-17

Psalm 140:1-13

Proverbs 30:17

22

Zechariah 2:1-3:10

Revelation 13:1-18

Psalm 141:1-10

Proverbs 30:18-20

23

Zechariah 4:1-5:11

Revelation 14:1-20

Psalm 142:1-7

Proverbs 30:21-23

24

Zechariah 6:1-7:14

Revelation 15:1-8

Psalm 143:1-12

Proverbs 30:24-28

25

Zechariah 8:1-23

Revelation 16:1-21

Psalm 144:1-15

Proverbs 30:29-31

26

Zechariah 9:1-17

Revelation 17:1-18

Psalm 145:1-21

Proverbs 30:32

27

Zechariah 10:1-11:17

Revelation 18:1-24

Psalm 146:1-10

Proverbs 30:33

28

Zechariah 12:1-13:9

Revelation 19:1-21

Psalm 147:1-20

Proverbs 31:1-7

29

Zechariah 14:1-21

Revelation 20:1-15

Psalm 148:1-14

Proverbs 31:8-9

30

Malachi 1:1-2:17

Revelation 21:1-27

Psalm 149:1-9

Proverbs 31:10-24

31

Malachi 3:1-4:6

Revelation 22:1-21

Psalm 150:1-6

Proverbs 31:25-31

November 2014 Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat

1

6:00 Breakfast at the

Seed

2

Services at 9 and 11

10:00 Adult Bible Study

10:00 The Experiment

10:00 Young Explorers

6:30 Discipleship

6:30 Handchime Practice

3

7:00 Al-Anon

Information

4

1:00 Games

Group

7:00 Yoga

5

9:30 MOPS Steer-

ing Committee

9:30 Experiencing

God

7:00 Al-Anon

6

7

8

1:00 MOPS Fund-

raiser

9


10

7:00 Fireside

Group

11

Remembrance

Day (Office

Closed)

7:00 Today’s

Pilgrims

7:00 Yoga

12

9:30 MOPS

9:30 Experiencing

God

7:00 Al-Anon

13

12:30 Acadia

Place Volunteer

Meeting

14

Discipleship

Retreat

7:00 Youth

Movie Night

15

Discipleship Retreat

1:00 ‘Tween Event

16

Discipleship Retreat






17

18

1:00 Games

Group

7:00 Board Meet-

ing

7:00 Yoga

19

9:30 Experiencing

God

7:00 Al-Anon

7:30 Choir

8:30 Praise Team

20

7:15 Flock Care

Meeting

21

22

8:00 Operation

Christmas Child

Work Bee

23

Stewardship Sunday



11:00 One Service

12:00 Hot Dog Sunday

24

7:00 Fireside

Group

25

7:00 Today’s

Pilgrims

7:00 Yoga

26

9:30 MOPS

9:30 Experiencing

God

7:00 Al-Anon

7:30 Choir

8:30 Praise Team

27

28

7:30 Youth

Games Night

29

10:00 Making Advent

Corsages

30


10:00 Advent Craft



————Operation Christmas Child Shoe-Box Drop-Off All Week———

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