JULY 2016 EPISTLE

Katie Anderson to Serve with ELCA’s Young Adults in Global Mission (YAGM)!!I was thrilled to receive the news that our very own, Miss Katie Anderson, has been selected from among hundreds of applicants into a transformative, year-long journey in international

mission service through the ELCA’s Young Adults in Global Mission (YAGM) program. She will join 59 others in a year of service in: Argentina/Uruguay, Cambodia, Central Europe (Hungary), Jerusalem/West Bank, Madagascar, Mexico, Rwanda, Southern Africa and United Kingdom. Katie has been selected to serve in England! It is very exciting and an extraordinary opportunity for her to serve in Christ’s church! A year of service through the YAGM program invites young adults to become the hands and feet of Jesus in the world, providing critical support to ministries and projects in communities of need. It also invites volunteers into a journey of self-reflection, providing space to consider their sense of identity, God’s work in the world, and their place within it all. Young adults serve in the spirit of accompaniment, walking alongside global companions in a manner that practices mutuality, interdependence and solidarity. Areas of service include, but are not limited to, health and development, congregational ministry, human rights, education, homelessness, addiction recovery, women’s issues and children and youth. All site placements provide opportunities for young adults to confront issues of wealth and poverty, racial privilege, economic disparity and globalization, all through the lens of faith. YAGM is a beautiful example of the way we participate in a Church much larger than ourselves. You, the people of St. John’s have nurtured Katie in the faith by keeping your baptismal promises. Now, Christ has called Katie to serve the church in this way and it is extremely exciting and maybe a little scary. Katie joins dozens of other young adults, formed in faith in places like St. John’s, to be agents of Christ’s grace in our big world. YAGM is an expression of the church from family, to congregation, to the national ELCA body, and then to our ministry partners throughout the globe! On July 17 Katie will share more about her upcoming experience and we will have the opportunity to continue to support Katie in her baptismal calling. While throughout her year away she will need our prayers, our letters and cards of encouragement, and times to check-in with her, she has also been asked by the program to help raise $4000.00 to support the ministry of YAGM. Gilman and Spring Lake have also joined Katie in this journey! Donations that exceed the $4000 will support the wider YAGM program. Opportunity to give to this great ministry will happen in worship on July 17 or you can send a check payable to the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, PO Box 1809, Merrifield, VA 22116-8009 with (IMPORTANT) memo line: “YAGM Katie Anderson- GCS3309.” Or for online donations go to www.community.elca.org/yagm/give and click on Katie Anderson! I am excited to join Katie in this year of ministry. I look forward to sharing her journey throughout the year during worship, and I am hopeful about how her experience might plant seeds in all of us, particularly our young people, to discern how we are called to be Christ in our world. Join me in supporting what God is doing through Katie and many other young adults like her in the ELCA. In Christ’s Peace,Pastor Annie Ladnier

NEED A PRAYER?Call Beulah Thompson at 715-778-5542

and our Prayer Chain will go into action!

Wednesdays in the Word! A NEW Adult Faith Formation Opportunity!For 7 weeks, beginning on Wednesday, July 13 and running through August 24, Pastor Annie will be leading an adult faith formation opportunity! This time would also be suitable for upper middle school and high school youth and college students! We will be looking at “FAITH” using Spark House’s “Animate Faith” video series. We’ll spend time with modern popular theological voices such as Brian McClaren, Nadia Bolz-Weber, Bruce Reyes-Chow, Lauren Winner and more (many of these leaders spoke at a recent conference Pastor Annie attended in Atlanta!). Through the wonderful generosity of our Synod’s Resource Center, we get to use this wonderful resource for FREE! Here’s some FAQs:1. 7 weeks is a long time, I’m not sure I can commit/but I’m on vacation!? No worries! While every week will be enriching, this is a series you can easily step in and out of when you are in town! Come as often as you can!2. But I’m a man, and I don’t typically like church Bible studies. This study is intended for EVERYONE! men, women, singles, couples, younger, older, EVERYONE! We’ll hear from both male and female presenters and when I’ve used these studies before, the conversation was sparked for EVERYONE. Also, our young men need to see our grown men digging into Bibles and participating in church! Help set the example that FAITH is something we ALL work on! 3. What time? We will start promptly at 7 pm and aim for 1 hour sessions- feel free to come a bit earlier for extra fellowship!4. Will there be snacks? Pastor Annie will provide for the 1st week, and we’ll sign up for the remaining weeks! Jesus usually did ministry around a table, and we will be no different!5. Will there be child care? Do you have a middle or high school age student that would like to offer their services? That would be great! If someone is willing to organize child-care, there will be child-care! Let Pastor Annie know if you can help with this!6. What are we going to learn about? Each week we’ll learn about something different:July 13: God- Who exactly is this God we worship?July 20: Religion- what does it mean to be spiritual or religious? Why has religion held fast for centuries?July 27: Jesus- What does it mean to walk in the way of Jesus?August 3: Salvation-What exactly does it mean to be saved?August 10: Cross- What exactly do we believe about Jesus dying on the cross?August 17: Bible- Why read the Bible? August 24: Church- How is the church like a dysfunctional family? What does it mean to commit ourselves to the church family for better or worse?Our time together promises to help you grow deeper in understanding the Christian faith. It will be rich, prayerful, and a wonderful opportunity to grow in your relationships with others here at St. John’s. It’s also the PERFECT opportunity to invite a friend! We hope to see you there! Contact Pastor Annie with questions!

LIBRARY REVIEW “Shades of Blue” By Karen KingsburyBrad is about to marry the girl of his

dreams, but memories of lost innocence and a difficult choice, flood his conscience. He feels he must go in search of his first love to ask her for forgiveness.

Lynda Johnson – Librarian

** Please inform the church if your physical address, email address, or phone number has changed.** The deadline to submit items to be included in the monthly epistle is the 20th of each month.

We are in search of Worship Volunteers!Acolyte for July 3, Coffee Host for July 10, Greeter for Aug 14, Communion Assistants for July

10, 24, 31, Aug 14, 21, 28 and Sept 25. If you are willing/able to help, please contact the church office.

Education Committee

Looking for Sunday School teachers and helpers for 2016/2017 If you are willing and able to help, please call Kate Crogan

at 715-778-4705 Thank you.

The Spring Valley Community Food Pantry Now has a PO Box! Please send any donations/correspondence to: SV Community Food Pantry PO Box 135

Spring Valley, WI 54767

Stewardship NewsThe Stewardship Committee will be looking for a few folks to share some stories on what it

means to be part of St. John's.  These videos will be shared with our congregation in the fall.  Our hope is to gather and share with our members, the important role St. John's plays in your

life, family and our community.  Please consider sharing with the Stewardship Committee.

Another Great Year of Vacation Bible School!

144 Spring Valley children and youth and over 100 volunteers from the Spring Valley community churches came together for a wonderful week of “Deep Sea Discovery.” St. John’s served the meal and Pastor Annie led the lesson on Tuesday night! Kids sang songs, ate crazy

snacks, played goofy games, made fun crafts, and heard God’s word that “God is with me wherever I go!” They learned that God knows us, hears us, strengthens us, loves us, and

sends us! Thank you for your financial support, supply donations, and volunteer time to make this a wonderful week for our children!

Peterson Family Benefit (For Evan Peterson) Saturday, August 20, 2016 from 4-7 PM at St. John’s Lutheran Church.

Evan is an 11-year-old young man from Spring Valley who has Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis (LCH) and although it is not cancer, acts like cancer. He has

undergone chemo at four different times. Currently, there is no sign of a tumor, however, he is now wearing leg braces much of the time to help him walk correctly. There are many, many out-of-pocket costs, and we would like to assist the family with those expenses. We are in need of silent auction items and volunteers to help with serving a meal/kitchen help, set-up, clean-up, assisting with silent auction and other related tasks. The menu will include: hot dogs, brats, burgers, beans, potato salad, dessert, and beverages. For more information, to volunteer or to donate items for the silent auction, please contact Linda Anderson at 715-778-4287 or email mcm3jala@svtel.net. Thank you! Please plan to attend!

Chicken Feed Youth Ministry Fundraiser – July 14, 2016Our Annual Chicken Feed Youth Ministry Fundraiser will be held July 14 2016, from 5 to 7 pm. This is a community-wide barbequed chicken dinner to support the youth ministry of St. John's. Suggested donation for the meal is $8 per person or free will offering. There will also be raffles and prizes! All proceeds from this event will help offset the expense of Luther Point Bible Camp for 18 of our youth, future synod-wide youth retreats, future mission trips and youth gatherings, to build a fund for middle and high school curriculum and programming, and to equip and train youth ministry leadership. We are looking for volunteers to help us spread the word about this event through advertising in town and on social media. Volunteers are needed on July 13 to help set up and July 14 to help serve and clean up. Food donations and silent auction items are also needed. If you are willing/able to help, please ask Stacy Burr or contact the church office. Come and enjoy a great meal for a great cause - forming our young people in Christian faith!

Creative Worship Arts Team – July 21, 2016Would you love to see new music, art, or experimental dimensions in worship? Do you have the gift of creativity, music, or artistic expression? Join Pastor Annie for a creative brainstorming session on Wednesday July 21, at 6:30 pm. Call/email with questions or if you’d like to help! pastorannie@sjlca@gmail.com

Glow Fun Run/Walk – August 19, 2016 Time: 8 pm, meet at St. John’s to get glow gear. Route: Will be marked. St. John's to the ball fields. Cost: $5 per individual participant, $20 per team up to 5 people, 6 or more individuals - $2 per person. After fun run/walk, there will be water and healthy snacks at St. John's. All money raised will help support the youth ministry group of St. John's.

**Thank you to: James Schmitz, Maxine Sandvig, Kathleen Halberg, Gene Geiger, Laurel Falde, Nick Rasbach, Gene Roland and Pearl Ducklow for the donation in memory of Clark Anderson.

**Thank you to: Pearl Ducklow for the donation in memory of Keith Larson’s nephew.

JULY

2 -- Jamie Burr 6 -- Jennifer Bille Daniel Cipriano, Julie Finch, MacKenzie Olson 7 -- Irene Anderson 9 -- Adam Cleveland, Alexzandria Larrieu10 -- Matthew Dardine11 -- Russell Gunvalson 15 -- Nicole Howe and Laurie Keehr 16 -- Max Schmitt17 -- Reece Keehr19 -- Ryan Fritz, Noah Wells20 – David Debold, Gaige Larson 21 -- Ann Larson, Conner Trealoff

Clayton Utech, Hannah Utecht 22 -- Laurie Lasure 23 -- Wiley Crow 24 -- Rylie Fritz, Katja Wirth 25 -- Kristin Larson 26 -- Molly Green, Madeline Matthys 27 -- Hilary Boyer, Larry Kreibich,

Carol Roland 28 -- Tracey Boardman, Amber Schoeder 29 -- Nicole Roen 30 -- Kim Brooke

7 -- David & Cindy Miller 8 -- Tim & Amy Howe 12 -- Jon Tanberg & Kristin Larson

16 -- Scott & Serena Roen 19 -- Virgil & Beverly Lueth

20 -- Matt & Laura Pommier 24 -- Ken & Laurie Lasure

The Spring Valley Community Food Pantry

The Spring Valley Food pantry is available to help anyone in need of food in our area. If you know of a neighbor who could benefit from this assistance, you may obtain help on their behalf, keeping this information confidential.

The Spring Valley Food pantry is available to help anyone in need of food in our area. If you know of a neighbor who could benefit from this assistance, you may obtain help on their behalf, keeping this information confidential. Freezers and a refrigerator are available if you have items to donate requiring this. THANK YOU to all who have helped by contributing to this cause! The Food Pantry is open the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of each month from 10 – 11:30 am and from 4:30 – 6 pm. The phone number for the Spring Valley Community Food Pantry is 715-778-5988. For immediate need, please call the Pierce County Food Pantry in Ellsworth at 715-273-2070. Hours are: Monday thru Friday from 9:30 am to noon and Wednesday from 4-6 pm. Volunteer Opportunities: The food pantry is in need of volunteer drivers, stockers, cleaners and client help. If you are willing and able to help, please contact Pastor Annie!

STATISTICAL INFORMATIONAttendance: 2016 Event 2015 June 5 104 Baptism 72June 12 72 92

June 19 60 58

June 26 91 Baptism 67

Giving: General Open Simply

Plate Giving

June 5 $2,124 $147 $475June 12 $1,988 $69 $130June 19 $680 $23 $270

June 26 $2095 $79 $75

Needed/week: $2,874.14 (2016)Total needed to date this month: $74,727.64Total received to date this month: $55,638.68Total budget: (2016) $149,454.92

Introducing St. John’s Newest Members

THE WIRTHS

Rob, Katja and MasonRob works at Tractor Central. When he is not at work, he likes golfing, hunting or anything outdoors. Katja works as a Service Center Rep. at Westconsin Credit Union. Her hobbies include shopping, traveling and hanging out with family and friends. Mason is 2 years old and was recently baptized at St. John’s. He likes to clean and be a part-time dinosaur. He also likes Mickey Mouse and eating hot dogs and french fries.

THE MURPHYSStephen, Carly and Mackson

Stephen works in Rosemount as an equipment operator for a landfill company. In his free time, his hobbies include dirt biking and hunting. Carly works at Employment Benefits Administration Services in Ellsworth. She enjoys gardening and sewing. Mackson was recently baptized atSt. John’s and keeps busy doing baby things.

THE LYNUMSJason, Tracy, Kayla, Connor and Carson

Jason and Tracy are self-employed at their business, Northside Equipment in Woodville. When Jason is not involved in his business, he enjoys hobby farming, camping and any outdoor activities. He also enjoys fixing things. When Tracy is not at work, she also enjoys outdoor activities, especially camping. Kayla recently finished 8th grade at Spring Valley Middle School. She loves horses! and enjoys drawing, camping and fishing. Connor finished 6th grade at Spring Valley Middle School. He likes riding 4-wheelers, dirt bikes, and

snowmobiles depending on the season. He also enjoys fixing lawn mowers. Carson will be going into 4th grade at Spring Valley Elementary School. He likes taking care of the chickens and collecting their eggs and riding the golf cart.

THE RAMBERGSTami, Lindsey and Nathan

Tami works at Grandview Dental as a financial coordinator. In her leisure time she likes hunting, fishing, reading and gardening. Lindsey finished her 5th grade year at Viking Middle School. She enjoys reading, playing the saxophone, fishing and crafts. She is also learning how to play the guitar. Typical for her age, she likes hanging out with friends. Nathan finished his first grade year at Greenfield Elementary in Baldwin. He likes fishing, playing video games, playing football and reading. Playing with friends is fun for Nathan.

THE SMITHSLisa, Hannah and Wyatt

Lisa is employed at Anderson Windows. The family lives on a farm where she helps with their beef cattle. In her free time, she enjoys reading. Hannah finished 4th grade. She enjoys volleyball and softball. She is also into dance where she does ballet and tap. Hannah likes drawing, coloring and swimming. Wyatt is going into 3rd grade. He likes football, baseball and basketball. He likes school, especially math and reading. Wyatt also enjoys swimming. Both of the kids have fun 4-wheeling.

THE ESANBOCKSAdam, Becky, Elyn, Lane and Ty

Many St. John’s members fondly remember Ole and Margaret Hendrickson. Adam and Becky are living in the former home of Adam’s grandparents. Adam works for Minger Construction. In his free time he likes hunting and fishing. Becky works as an RN at Woodwinds Hospital. She enjoys hunting and horseback riding. She has

passed her love of horses on to her family. Elyn is 5 years old and will begin Kindergarten. She likes horses and swimming. Lane is 3 and likes doing outside things with Dad. Ty is 1 and also enjoys outside things. The whole family has fun swimming in their pool.

THE KNEGENDORFSAdam, Carrie and Kendall

Adam works for Weiser Concrete in Maiden Rock. When he is not at work, he enjoys hunting, fishing and camping. Carrie is a Senior Court Clerk for Washington County. In her free-time she likes baking, crafts and camping. Kendall is eight months old and has fun doing baby things.

VOLUNTEERSIF THIS SCHEDULE DOES NOT WORK FOR YOU PLEASE TRY TO SWITCH WITH SOMEONE ELSE ON THE SCHEDULE AND NOTIFY THE CHURCH OFFICE AT 715-778-5935 OF ANY CHANGES AND/OR IF YOU ARE WILLING TO HELP WITH THE

OPENINGS. THANK YOU!

MONTH OF JULYBread Baker – Minda Matthys

JULY 3 WORSHIP SERVICEUSHERS: Bob & Pam AndersonGREETERS: Kathy Miller & Irene AndersonREADERS: Clara GlandACOLYTES: Elijah Butts & Volunteer neededCOFFEE SERVERS: Virgil & Bev LuethCOMMUNION ASSISTANTS: Katie & Megan ManorJULY 17 WORSHIP SERVICEUSHERS: Craigen Anderson & Jon TanbergGREETERS: Brenda Anderson & Earnest AndersonREADERS: Claire AndersonACOLYTES: Ella & Emma EsanbockCOFFEE SERVERS: Richard & Lynda JohnsonCOMMUNION ASSISTANTS:Jeanne Niccum & Mel WentlandtJULY 31 WORSHIP SERVICEUSHERS: Keith & Nina LarsonGREETERS: Jason & Jenny StoiberREADERS: Jason StoiberACOLYTES: Clara Gland & Martin GlandCOFFEE SERVERS: Wildner FamilyCOMMUNION ASSISTANTS:Marsha Brunkhorst & Volunteer needed

JULY 10 WORSHIP SERVICEUSHERS: Dana & Hawken BensonGREETERS: Nystrom FamilyREADERS: Tanner SandsACOLYTES: Nolan Stans & Tanner SandsCOFFEE SERVERS: Volunteers neededCOMMUNION ASSISTANTS: Ally Klug & Volunteer neededJULY 24 WORSHIP SERVICEUSHERS: Bill & Luann EmersonGREETERS: Sylva Anderson & Nancy ClevelandREADERS: Beulah ThompsonACOLYTES: Hawken & Sam BensonCOFFEE SERVERS: Phil & Laura HennemannCOMMUNION ASSISTANTS: Volunteers needed

MONTH OF AUGUSTBread Baker – Amy Nystrom

AUGUST 7 WORSHIP SERVICEUSHERS: Phil & Laura HennemannGREETERS: Althea Wood & Shelby CrowREADERS: Esther GlandACOLYTES: Sina Nystrom & Lyndsey RambergCOFFEE SERVERS: Larry & Laurie KreibichCOMMUNION ASSISTANTS: Missy Mathiesen & Judy Larrieu

AUGUST 14 WORSHIP SERVICEUSHERS: Jeanne Niccum & Kathy MillerGREETERS: Ed Raehsler & Volunteer neededREADERS: Serena RoenACOLYTES: Connor & Kayla LynumCOFFEE SERVERS: Judy Larrieu & Stacy BurrCOMMUNION ASSISTANTS: Marsha Brunkhorst & Volunteer needed

AUGUST 21 WORSHIP SERVICEUSHERS: Kevin & Val AndersonGREETERS: Larry & Laurie KreibichREADERS: Jennifer BilleACOLYTES: Tristan Boardman & Wylie BrookeCOFFEE SERVERS: Jay & Wendy ArnesonCOMMUNION ASSISTANTS:Kelly Schreiber & Volunteer neededAUGUST 28 WORSHIP SERVICEUSHERS: Mike & Heidi JacobsonGREETERS: John & Leanna LarsonREADERS: Sydney BoyerACOLYTES: Maddie & Max MatthysCOFFEE SERVERS: Jason & Jenny Stoiber FamilyCOMMUNION ASSISTANTS: Volunteers needed

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