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St Luke's Winter 2011 Newsleter

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winter 2011 newsletter In This Issue Holiday Worship 2 On Fire! 3-4 Youth 5 L-Teams 6 Adult Classes and Events 6 Women’s Ministry 7 Meet Kate 7 Information & Announcements 8 A Note from Larry 8 FPU 9 God Stories 10-11 Staff 12 When I speak with friends and family members that don’t live here in Washington they usually ask me “How are things at church?” In the past few months I have found it a little more difficult to respond to that question because Jesus has been doing so many exciting things. We have dedicated a new building and begun to use it for God’s work. We have launched our On Fire family ministry – a plan and vision for the spiritual growth of our children from birth to graduation. We have begun engaging children of each age and grade in specific activities to grow their life and faith. We have seen our youth ministry reinvigorated with the arrival of Jake and Christina. We have taken the next step in our partnership with the people of Mahalini in Swaziland. We have seen members of St. Luke’s passionately pursuing God’s calling in so many exciting and creative ways, developing L-teams and connecting with new people in order to share Christ’s love. DivorceCare. Griefshare. Core. Potlucks. Small groups. Prayer ministry. Into the Woods. Mission trips. Braille ministry. Needlers. The Union Gospel Mission. Worship teams. It doesn’t take long to learn that there is never a dull moment at St. Luke’s! If God is tugging at your heart to do something meaningful with the life that He has given you, I encourage you to dive in. Discover that there is greater joy in being a blessing than getting one! But I ask you to dive in with caution. Our desire when we embraced this L-team model of ministry is that people would grow in their relationship with Jesus and find clarity from Him about their purpose in this world. To live each day as gift and calling from God. To love those who God has put in our life and allow them to love us. To learn God’s Word and boldly share it. Sometimes we mistake “busyness” for meaning. Ironically in our culture people complain and complain about the pace of their lives but do very little to change it. We mistakenly think that God is honored most by our activity when just the opposite is true. The Scriptures remind us repeatedly in the Psalms to “be still and know that I am God” (37:7. 39:2, 46:10). What God desires most from each of us is to open our hearts and lives to Him. As we are fueled by God’s Spirit in that relationship we follow where He is leading us in the world. How do you feed your personal relationship with Jesus? Just like you do any relationship. Live. Love. Learn. Spend time together, care about and for each other and share your thoughts and lives with each other. When do you spend time with your Heavenly Father? How do you invite Jesus into your day? When do you share your heart and mind with Him? When do you take time to hear His? Personally, I find it is easy to fill the minutes. What is challenging is to remember to “be still”. But in the moments I devote to Jesus I find refreshment, direction, peace, power and joy. While Jesus continues to give us opportunities to share His love and message of grace with the world, God’s first calling is the passionate pursuit of our relationship with Him. We don’t have to look busy to impress our God and King. He is already there with open arms longing for us to open our eyes and hearts and lives to Him. Pastor Chris Live.Love.Learn
Transcript
Page 1: St Luke's Winter 2011 Newsleter

winter 2011 newsletter

In This Issue

Holiday Worship 2

On Fire! 3-4

Youth 5

L-Teams 6

Adult Classes and Events 6

Women’s Ministry 7

Meet Kate 7

Information & Announcements 8

A Note from Larry 8

FPU 9

God Stories 10-11

Staff 12

When I speak with friends and family members that don’t live here in Washington they usually ask me “How are things at church?” In the past few months I have found it a little more difficult to respond to that question because Jesus has been doing so many exciting things. We have dedicated a new building and begun to use it for God’s work. We have launched our On Fire family ministry – a plan and vision for the spiritual growth of our children from birth to graduation. We have begun engaging children of each age and grade in specific activities to grow their life and faith. We have seen our youth ministry reinvigorated with the arrival of Jake and Christina. We have taken the next step in our partnership with the people of Mahalini in Swaziland. We have seen members of St. Luke’s passionately pursuing God’s calling in so many exciting and creative ways, developing L-teams and connecting with

new people in order to share Christ’s love. DivorceCare. Griefshare. Core. Potlucks. Small groups. Prayer ministry. Into the Woods. Mission trips. Braille ministry. Needlers. The Union Gospel Mission. Worship teams. It doesn’t take long to learn that there is never a dull moment at St. Luke’s! If God is tugging at your heart to do something meaningful with the life that He has given you, I encourage you to dive in. Discover that there is greater joy in being a blessing than getting one!

But I ask you to dive in with caution. Our desire when we embraced this L-team model of ministry is that people would grow in their relationship with Jesus and find clarity from Him about their purpose in this world. To live each day as gift and calling from God. To love those who God has put in our life and allow them to love us. To learn God’s Word and boldly share it. Sometimes we mistake “busyness” for meaning. Ironically in our culture people complain and complain about the pace of their lives but do very little to change it. We mistakenly think that God is honored most by our activity when just the opposite is true. The Scriptures remind us repeatedly in the Psalms to “be still and know that I am God” (37:7. 39:2, 46:10). What God desires most from each of us is to open our hearts and lives to Him. As we are fueled by God’s Spirit in that relationship we follow where He is leading us in the world.

How do you feed your personal

relationship with Jesus? Just like you do any relationship. Live. Love. Learn. Spend time together, care about and for each other and share your thoughts and lives with each other. When do you spend time with your Heavenly Father? How do you invite Jesus into your day? When do you share your heart and mind with Him? When do you take time to hear His? Personally, I find it is easy to fill the minutes. What is challenging is to remember to “be still”. But in the moments I devote to Jesus I find refreshment, direction, peace, power and joy. While Jesus continues to give us opportunities to share His love and message of grace with the world, God’s first calling is the passionate pursuit of our relationship with Him. We don’t have to look busy to impress our God and King. He is already there with open arms longing for us to open our eyes and hearts and lives to Him.

Pastor Chris Live.Love.Learn

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HOLIDAY WORSHIP SERVICES

Advent Weekend ServicesThe Children of IsaiahNov. 26-27 IsaiahDec. 3-4 ImmanuelDec. 10-11 Maher-Shalal-Hash-BazDec. 17-18 WonderfulThe word Advent means “coming.” Our weekend sermon series for this Advent season is taken from Isaiah 6-9. Each chapter focuses on a different child whose coming holds a promise for God’s people and for us today! Wednesday Advent WorshipNov. 30 Coming Soon…Dec. 7 Critical ReviewsDec. 14 Now in 3D!What if the first coming of Jesus had been filtered through the marketing machine of today’s movie theatre? How would it have been promoted? How would it have been received? Our study this advent looks to creatively discuss the expectations and responses to Jesus coming. How do we respond to the coming King?

Christmas EveCome and SeeSaturday, 3:00 p.m. Children’sSaturday, 5:00 p.m. CelebrationSaturday, 7:00 p.m. CelebrationSaturday, 11:00 p.m. Unplugged In the midst of the craziness of life the shepherds dropped everything to come and see the Savior. This Christmas come out of the hustle and bustle. Relax and rejoice in the Savior who is there!

Christmas Day Come and WorshipSunday, 10:00 a.m.Join us for a celebration of the greatest gift the world has ever received! There will be only one worship service this Christmas Sunday at 10:00 a.m.

New Year’s EveNo RegretSaturday - 7:00 p.m. A lot happens over the course of a year. Our God is a God of fresh starts and new life. This New Year’s Eve join us as we put 2011 to rest and prepare for a new day.

New Year’s DayResolutionSunday, New Year’s Day10:00 a.m. Seeking a clearer picture for the year ahead? Maybe it is time to give up the tradition of short-lived pledges and high pressure promises and find clarity in a different picture for 2012!

Thanksliving Worship!Wednesday, Nov. 23, 7:00 p.m.Thankfulness is not just an attitude, but a lifestyle! Celebrate God’s goodness and calling with us this Thanksgiving season. There will be baskets down from to deposit socks for the homeless (new only).

Prayer & Healing ServiceSunday, Jan 15, 6:00-7:00 p.m.

Congregation Vision MeetingJan. 22, 12:15 p.m. Our Executive Leadership Team will lead a conversation about the vision and goals that we are pursuing as a congregation. Included is an evaluation of our progress toward St. Luke’s ministry plans as well as a discussion of the future opportunities and challenges. Time will be given for questions and feedback.

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ON FIRE!FLAME - (grades 1 - 6)

Holy Communion ClassWednesdays, Jan. 11 – Feb. 156:30-8:00 p.m. Celebrating the Lord’s Supper is a great gift and privilege! Each year we offer a Holy Communion class for fifth-grade students and older to be instructed about this holy meal. Parents take the class with their child. Together students and adults will learn the history, significance, and practice of Holy Communion. A special first communion opportunity is provided for students completing the class on Ash Wednesday, Feb. 22.

Flame Parents’ GroupFor parents of kids in grades one through six1st Sunday at 9:30 a.m., Great Room-CFlame parents have their own unique challenges, frustrations and joys in parenting. This hour is less class, more connection with other parents, and a place to receive that much needed support in Christian parenting. Each age group will have a Sunday of the month, but you may find that hearing from parents of children in a different age level will be helpful, too! Facilitated by Kevin and Julie Kinzner.

SPARK - (age 0 - kindergarten)

Spark Parents’ Group - Come As You Are! For parents of children age birth-kindergarten3rd Sunday at 9:30 a.m., Great Room-CDads and moms, married and single, are welcome and encouraged to participate. We’ll discuss practical and spiritual topics. Feel free to drop in/out each month as the timing and topic suit you. Children who aren’t already in Sunday School are welcome to either stay with their parents or play in the nursery during our time together. Facilitated by Bryan and Bree Mann.

Spark Family Play – Open GymNovember – April, 2nd and 4th SaturdaysThe Spark Open Gym time is targeted at birth to 5-year-olds. Come enjoy some gym time with toys, games and balls. Even if your child isn’t totally mobile yet, come anyway and meet other parents. Siblings are more than welcome to come as well, keeping in mind that the toys are intended for birth to 5-year-olds.

Birthday Party for One-Year-Olds!Saturday, Jan. 21, 201210-11:30 a.m., Malkow HallIf you had a child who turned “1” in 2011, we would like to help you celebrate the first year of life! Please join us for a Birthday Party just for YOU & YOUR 1-YEAR-OLD. It will give you a great opportunity to meet other parents with children the same age, share experiences and trade advice! Bring a blanket for your child to play on if needed. (Childcare will be available for older siblings upon request. Please call the church office in advance with their names and ages.) Questions? Contact Debbie Fuller: [email protected].

Meet the BabiesSaturday, Feb. 410-11:30 a.m.Who are the parents of babies at St. Luke’s? This is a time to meet other parents and talk about the life change of having a baby in the house, sharing experiences, joys, frustrations, and help for others. Contact Carrie Andrew for more info: [email protected].

IGNITE - (grades 7 - 12)

Ignite Parents’ GroupFor parents of kids in grades seven-124th Sunday at 11:00 – Great Room-CIf you’re the parent of a middle school or high school student, you have questions, concerns, and issues you want to talk about with other parents in the same boat. Come join us as we chat about and pray for the teens God has entrusted to our care. Topics will be ready as discussion starters, but we can wander to whatever is on your mind and heart. Your teens are talking to their friends about YOU; you need the chance to talk with other Christian parents about THEM! Facilitated by Sue Acuna.

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ON FIRE! HOLIDAY EVENTSMake ‘N Take Christmas Craft FestivalWe will begin our celebration of the Advent and Christmas season with our annual Make ‘N Take Christmas Craft Festival on Sunday, Nov. 27 from 2 - 5 p.m. in Malkow Hall. This is our anniversary year. We have been offering this event for over 10 years! Invite your friends, family and neighbors to honor the birth of our Savior by making craft items to give to others or to decorate our tree and our home. Come sing Christmas carols, have peppermint ice cream and cookies, enter you name in the door prize drawing or make an Advent calendar or wreath. There will be free devotional materials for children and families. Mark your calendar now, and plan to attend!

Angel BreakfastOur annual Angel Breakfast for families with young children is on Saturday, Dec. 3 at 9 a.m. in Malkow Hall. Tickets will go on sale Nov. 20. The cost is $5 per person or $20 per immediate family. A full pancake and sausage breakfast will be served. There will be Christmas music, drama, treats, door prizes, activity books, story telling, balloons, haloes and crowns and ornaments. Bring your own camera to take pictures at the manger scene we will have set up. Call or email Mitzie Ollila with questions. Be sure to invite grandparents, cousins, friends, neighbors and classmates!

Helpers Needed for Angel BreakfastWe are in need of people to help set up for the Angel Breakfast on Friday, Dec. 2 at 6:30 p.m. in Malkow Hall. We also need kitchen helpers for the breakfast on Saturday morning, Dec. 3 as well as table servers. We need adults and youth in grades six and up. Contact Mitzie Ollila if you can help.

Sunday School Christmas Program for 3-, 4-, and 5-Year-OldsOur Christmas program for the 3-, 4-, and 5-year-old Sunday School classes will be presented on Sunday, Dec. 4, in Great Room A and B at 9:45 a.m. The children will go to their regular class location at 9:30 a.m. and come in together to present their program. Please bring a plate of cookies to share at our reception following the program.

Sunday School Christmas Program and Rehearsal for Grades One through SixSunday School grades one through six will present their Christmas Program on Sunday, Dec. 11 during our 11 a.m. worship service in the Worship Center. They will attend regular Sunday School at 9:30 a.m. and be brought over to the Worship Center by their Sunday School teachers for the program. All Sunday School children in grades one through six must come to our dress rehearsal on Saturday, Dec. 10 from 1 - 2:30 p.m. in the Worship Center. This is our only rehearsal together for the program, so all teachers and children are needed at the rehearsal. Extra rehearsal times for fifth- and sixth-graders will be announced to them. Parents please mark your calendars with the program and rehearsal times.

Childcare, Preschool and Kindergarten Christmas ProgramsOur 4- and 5-year-old Preschool and Kindergarten classes will present their combined Christmas Program in the Worship Center on Sunday, Dec. 11 at 2pm followed by a reception in the lobby. Our Childcare Center will present their Christmas Program on Friday, Dec. 16 at 7 p.m. in the Worship Center. All are welcome to attend these programs. It is such a blessing to hear the voices of children celebrate the birth of Jesus.

Thanksgiving Altar Set UpWe will be decorating the altar in the Worship Center for Thanksgiving on Tuesday, Nov. 22 from 2 - 4 p.m. Anyone is welcome to come and help. If you have produce, corn stalks, canned food in glass jars or flowers that we can use, please bring it to the church by the morning of Nov. 22. Call or email Mitzie Ollila if you have any questions.

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YOUTHDeath Star

If you have sat in on a parent meeting with me, you have probably heard these two words: death star. If you haven’t heard me use those words before, you might be thinking, “What does Star Wars have to do with Youth Ministry?” Well, other than the fact that a staggering number of our youth have never seen any of those George Lucas gems, “death star” has more to do with the key task of the church family.

First, I draw a large circle and label it “church.” Next, I draw a smaller circle and label it “youth.” In this first diagram, the smaller circle (youth) is outside of the larger circle (church). This diagram is called a “youth ghetto.” When youth ministry exists as a separate circle outside of the life of the church, a “youth ghetto” is created. The Body of Christ has many parts but the parts are integrated! Therefore, we are not going for a “youth ghetto,” but a “death star!” So, for the second diagram, I place the smaller circle (youth) inside the larger circle (church) and it looks like a “death star” from Star Wars. Youth Ministry is part of the whole of the church and we are committed to integrating youth into the life of the church by connecting them into the larger church family.

How is this “death star” taking shape? One exciting piece at a time! God is constantly at work, powerfully transforming the lives of our youth and our leaders. Recently, our 7th and 8th graders returned from the “True Love” retreat. In a sea of voices on sex and dating, youth were given “ammo” for their “guns” to stand up to those voices and make a commitment to live a life of true love and purity in their relationships. Confirmation students (9th graders) returned from their first retreat of the school year at the end of September. Confirmation is that first giant step (of many) that will bring their confession of faith into the life of the church as a whole. It is incredible to watch them grow as they study God’s Word and interact with each other.

As for the rest of our youth, studying God’s Word and interacting is what Wednesday Night Ignite is all about! This middle-of-the-week hangout is just what the Doctor ordered! Starting with a Bible Study, youth enjoy a laid-back exploration of God’s Word and experience a night of games and fellowship. Friendships are formed and laughter is heard throughout the night. What’s not to enjoy!? If your child has not experienced a Wednesday Night Ignite, I would STRONGLY encourage you to come and see what they are missing!

Speaking of opportunities, our girl’s ministry, Charis (meaning “grace”), is off and running! Headed up by an amazing team of God-fearing women, Charis is a powerful “death star” ministry that takes aim at shaping our young girls into women of God. The Holy Spirit is working in powerful ways to transform these girls. Also, I hear that a new boy’s ministry will be starting in the near future…

Let’s not forget the young adults! The fire doesn’t stop after graduating High School! Tom and Alyshia Foster are heading up a young adult ministry aptly named “Stoke.” “Stoke” includes Bible Studies, movies, hangouts and even a few nights of trampoline dodgeball! Check out their page on Facebook for the latest events and get plugged in!

We, as a Youth Ministry team, are committed to working with you, the parent, in integrating our youth into the life of the church. Look for more to come as God transforms lives here in this place and in this ministry. Continue to pray for us and come see what this “death star” is all about!

Only Because of Jesus,

Pastor Jake

YOUTH

CHURCH

YOUTH

CHURCH

VS.

“Death Star”“Youth Ghetto”

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ADULT CLASSES & EVENTS

L-TEAMSWhat is an L-Team?People engaging in a Live.Love.Learn. activity where relationships are built and Christ is shared.

L-Teams are not small groups• They may or may not meet weekly• They may or may not open a Bible or pray or talk about Jesus

L-Teams can include anyone, meet anywhere and do almost anything• They are not just for St. Luke’s people - invite co-workers, neighbors and friends• They can meet at your house, at church or at the bowling alley

L-Team samples: Golf Tournament, Sip ‘n Score, NFL Pick ‘Em League, Christian Motorcyclists, Afternoon Tea, and STOKE. We’ve also had a neighborhood trash pick up L-Team and Mirror Lake community service teams, We have boy scouts, small group teams, hospital visitors, potlucks, thrift store shopping, and bowling.

For more information, contact Jan Grothe: 253.941.3000 or [email protected]

New L-Team?It’s easy to start an L-Team! Check out our website for the variety of L-Teams we have. Email Jan Grothe at [email protected] or go to the St. Luke’s website stlukes-church.com, log in, then click on “Start a new L-Team” and fill out the form. We’ll process your form and schedule Captain (Leader) Training if you haven’t already done so. Not sure? Give me a call and we can talk through your ideas and the process. Jan at 253.941.3000.

L-Teams for JanuaryNow is the time to start processing the L-Teams you are thinking about starting in the winter quarter. January will be here quicker than we realize. (Dec. 8 is the due date for winter L-Teams.) If you need help, direction, calendaring, or whatever, let me know. What has God put on your heart to do? What are you already doing? Email Jan, [email protected], or call 253.941.3000 to set up a time to talk about where God is leading you and for a short training session.

New CORE Training Beginning in January!CORE is designed for those who seek to develop their knowledge and skills for the purpose of sharing Jesus Christ. The classes include deep Bible teaching with a focus on life application. This winter Core will be training on Becoming an Influencer for God. No matter your personality or position, every Christian can share the love of Jesus at work, home, school, neighborhood or gas station. Topics include: Understanding the Mission, Discovering Your Personal Calling, Self-Feeding, Spiritual Gifts, The Importance of Character, Managing Your Life, Biblical Models of Leadership, Servant Leadership, Working with Teams, Setting Boundaries ,and much more! Core meets Tuesday evenings 6:30-8:30 from Jan. 17 to Feb. 28.

Membership ClassDiscover Life with God – This workshop and Next Steps events are designed to learn about the vision and purpose of St. Luke’s, as well as our ministries and L-Teams. We cover topics in the Christian faith, including Baptism and the Lord’s Supper. The next dates are: Jan. 20/21, and Apr. 13/14.

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WOMEN’S MINISTRY

MEET KATE

Victorian Country ChristmasDec. 3, 11 a.m.Step back in time as the Western Washington Fair-grounds in Puyallup are transformed into a Victoria village featuring old-fashioned streets lined with over 530 Victoria stores, teneed by shopkeepers in Victo-ria attire. Concerts, stage shows, Christmas decora-tions and ideas, a singing Nativity and more! Carpool from St. Luke’s parking lot at 11:00 am.

Listening to GodJan. 7, 9 - 11 a.m.Great RoomIf the request is wrong, God says “No.” If the timing is wrong, God says, “Slow.” If you are wrong, God says, “Grow.” But if the request is right, the timing is right and you are right, God says “Go!” Ann Murphy will lead this Bible study on prayer.

Let’s Take a TripFeb. 4, 9 - 11 a.m.Great RoomIf you travel at all, you know there are great deals to be found on the internet, if you only knew where to look. I have stayed at the Hyatt Regency for $80.00 a night, rented a car in Orange County for $13.95 a day, and flown round trip from Seattle to Los Angeles for only $100.00. I will be happy to show you how you, too, can save money on your next vacation. Led by Sue Acuna.

Spiritual WarfareMar. 3, 9 - 11 a.m.Great RoomAs Christians we are all soldiers engaged in spiritual warfare transacted on an invisible battlefield. Satan has a powerful kingdom and governs his hierarchy of demons, principalities and powers to carry out his schemes of disruption and destruction. Yet many of us remain untrained in the skills of spiritual war-fare. This seminar will provide some basic tools to help you effectively engage in spiritual hand-to-hand combat on both a personal and cosmic level. Led by Ann Murphy.

Mother-Daughter TeaApr. 11, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.Great RoomDebbie McNeil and Paulette Bodeutsch will lead this event and need lots of help!

Heaven is for RealMay 5, 9 - 11 a.m.Great RoomHeaven is for Real is a heartwarming, simple, and surprisingly Biblical glimpse into a little four year old boy’s journey into heaven. Colton Burpo was four years old when he found himself at death’s door. His family didn’t realize he had made his amazing journey until small but shocking revelations began to leak out in one startling revelation at a time. Ann Murphy will lead us in a Bible Study Book Review of this heart-warming reassuring book. This book is an easy read, not a requirement, but would help if you read before the Study.

Hi my name is Kate Roberts (they made me write this!) Some of you may know me from my previous years of employment and ministry here at St. Luke’s. In more recent years I’ve been serving as a missionary overseas where my work has included everything from humanitarian aid and trauma/crisis counseling, to evangelism and community development. And for now, I am doing an internship here at the church focused around relational ministry, spiritual growth and development, teaching, and of course a whole array of mission projects and outreaches. Please feel free to give me a call or send me a note, I would love to chat!

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INFORMATION & ANNOUNCEMENTS

A NOTE FROM LARRY

HAPPENINGS AT ST LUKE’S!Please update the church office, 253.941.3000 with new addresses, phone numbers or e-mail addresses.

Baptized:Dylan Valdez 08/07Cameron Woodbury 08/07Gabriel Moore 08/20Isabella Moore 08/20McKenna Brockman 09/28Ashleigh Lockhart 09/04Jaxen Brucker 09/10Noah Meyer 09/18Kyley Melicano 09/18Gavin Higgins 10/30

Weddings:Kurtis and Courtney (Casady) Johnson 08/20Joshua and Alexandra (Grenier) Sabrowsky 08/27Travis and Anna (Bush) Loudenback 08/28Felipe and Stacia (Gloman) Hayes 09/03Thomas and Tamaria (Morrison) Lelli 09/18Michael and Jessica (Lancaster) Brown 10/15

New Members:Scott and Liz Allen Jason and Jaime Brucker (Jayden and Jaxen)Evelyn Daly (McKenna)Ryan and Danika FulcherBrett and Rebecca Hulse (Kaila)Dennis and Joyce HulseGrant and Jennifer Hulse Releases: (Alyssa and McKenna) Vicky KantnerIrv and Angelie Stahlnecker Marian Paulson (Patricia and Stephanie)Joni Sanders

Transfers:Jeremy and Becca Badger (Jerico) Anchorage Lutheran, Anchorage, AlaskaRay and Debbie Olson Peace Lutheran, Chehalis, WA

Hey, everyone! Larry Krueger here with a quick ‘end of the year’ update from the Worship and Arts Department… First of all, thank you for the wonderful turn-out for our big fall drama ‘Into the Woods’! The drama staff, cast, musicians and crew all join me in thanking you for allowing us to use your Worship Center to bring

some laughter and fellowship to those who may not enter a church setting in any other way. It certainly is exciting to see how God will use that laughter, drama, and friendship to plant seeds in people’s hearts. Now we wait for growth and returning faces! Yeah!

Be sure and mark your calendar for our ThanksLiving service, Nov. 23, at 7 p.m. Let’s join together in one big worship service to show our thankfulness to God for his provision and his hand in our lives! We will be gathering new socks for the homeless during this service. The Wednesdays in Advent (Nov. 30, Coming Soon: Dec. 7, Critical Reviews; and Dec 14, Now in 3D) will also be an

opportunity to gather together in worship and study, as we prepare for the birth of Christ. We will study the expectations and responses to Jesus’ coming, both then and now. How do we respond to

the coming King? Sundays during Advent we will be talking about Children of Isaiah, as our pastors focus each week on a different child from the book of Isaiah. We will learn how those children each hold a promise for God’s people today! That’s you, and me!

Then comes Christmas! Woohoo! Four Christmas Eve services, Dec. 24, titled Come and See, are being prepared as you read this. Our 3pm Children’s service, the 5 and 7 p.m. Celebration services, and the 11 p.m. Unplugged service are gearing up to be fun, festive times rejoicing in the birth of our Savior! This Christmas come out of the hustle and bustle. Relax and rejoice in the Savior who is there! And here! The one Christmas Day service, Come and Worship, is at 10 a.m. The greatest gift the world has ever received is yours and mine, and we celebrate that gift together. New Year’s Eve, No Regret, is Saturday, Dec. 31, at 7 p.m. Our God is a God of fresh starts and a new life. Let’s put 2011 to rest and prepare for a new day! Finally, to end our Christmas season and to officially start the new year, New Year’s Day service, Resolution, is at 10 a.m. Are you seeking a clearer picture for the year ahead? Maybe it’s time to give up the short-lived pledges and high pressure promises

and find clarity in a different picture for 2012!

To each of you a blessed and safe holiday season! See ya in church! It’s gonna be FUN!

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FPU PERSONAL STORIES

If you have a job, pay bills, or want to retire with dignity, keep reading! Money can be a source of security or worry for most of us. Financial problems abound today: 37% of marriage problems derive from finances; 70% of all consumers live paycheck to paycheck; and 46% of all Americans have less than $10,000 saved for retirement. However, when we know how money works and are good stewards with what the Lord has given us, it can become a great blessing.

St. Luke’s is excited to be hosting Financial Peace University. Developed by radio talk show host and best selling author Dave Ramsey, this program will teach you how to win with money using the wisdom that God offers us in His Word. FPU is a Biblically-based study that is energetic and convicting.

FPU is a 13-week, life-changing program that empowers and teaches you how to make the right money decisions to achieve your financial goals and God’s plan for your life. The course includes practical lessons on eliminating debt, building wealth, giving like never before, and more!

Applying God’s Word to your finances will radically change your life. On average, FPU graduates have paid off over $5,300 in debt and saved $2,700 during the 91-day program!

FPU is for EVERYONE... from the financially secure to the financially distressed. You are invited to attend a FREE PREVIEW session to check out the program. The previews will be held on Sunday, Dec. 18 at 12:00 p.m. and Monday, Jan. 2 at 6:00 p.m. Classes will start on Sunday, Jan. 8 at 6:00 p.m. Contact Bryan Mann, 253.315.5561 or [email protected] for information or check details online at http://www.daveramsey.com/fpu/.

Two years ago I thought I “knew it all” when it came to finances. I didn’t owe too much on my credit cards, I didn’t refinance for more years for a lower payment, I budgeted (at least that is what I thought I was doing) and yes, I had an emergency account (my line of credit). Then I took Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University (FPU). Although I knew some things about money, I found out how many errors I have been making over the years, and my life has totally changed! Now, God-willing, by the end of February, I will be totally debt free (with the exception of my home).

My deepest regret is I didn’t do this when I was younger. I now know how much further ahead I would be today. I would like to encourage you, no matter how young or old: this course will help you. I now have a REAL CASH EMERGENCY FUND. I have MORE IN SAVINGS than I have had my entire life. I purchase everything with cash, and I have been able to give more money with great excitement. One of my greatest joys has been able to share with others what I learned from FPU. Now I am looking forward to even my home being paid in full in a few years. If you would love to learn to “live like no one else so that you can live like no one else” and have the joy of giving and helping others because you have more than you need, this course is for you!

In October 2008 we were drowning in debt - like so many other couples today! Our financial future looked dismal, and any chance of retirement seemed absolutely hopeless. We had almost given up, when one day God planted a thought... maybe we could stop the insanity! Friends had ‘gone Dave’ (Dave Ramsey’s “Total Money Make Over”) about 18 months earlier, paying off all debt and began living on a cash-only, no debt basis, changing their family-tree in the process, and role-modeling a seemingly radical lifestyle to us.

So we made a call, and they were only too thrilled to help us “flip the switch!” We set-up a ‘real’ budget (on paper!), as well as a “debt snowball” plan, and have never looked back. Unexpectedly, God blessed our efforts abundantly!

In less than 12 months we paid off over $40,000 of debt, banked three-six months income as an Emergency Fund, and “accelerated” our retirement contributions - as well as sending every ‘leftover dollar’ to our mortgage. We attended Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University (FPU) which changed our lives forever! Recently we celebrated our 3-year ‘Dave anniversary.’ We’re still DEBT FREE except the mortgage, which will be paid off in three years, have NO CREDIT CARDS, live on an all-cash basis only, and now have hope of a decent retirement. With our friend’s incredible example, Dave Ramsey’s proven plan, and God’s promise and faithfulness, we too have changed our family tree. We are proof that it can be done!

Page 10: St Luke's Winter 2011 Newsleter

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GOD STORIESGod Is in the Details By Rob Grothe

Some people may attribute fortunate day-to-day happenings to “good luck” or “karma,” but the reality is that God is in all the details of our lives from the biggest to the smallest of situations.

I was deployed to the NATO headquarters in Kabul, Afghanistan, and God showed His hand in my life many, many times throughout. I would like to share one particular experience where God placed Himself into my details.

On the day I was supposed to leave Kabul to begin my journey out of the country and back to the States, there was an attack on the far side of my base, which had us on lock down for quite awhile while our guys took care of the situation and made things safe again.

Because of the lock-down, I missed my flight which was scheduled for 1430 (2:30 pm for those unaccustomed to military time). I was told there would be another flight the next day at 1030, but I needed to come back later to verify. So I hung around until 8p, went back to check and was told to return at 2100. Thankfully the computer-age has reached most military bases in Afghanistan, so I was able to fire off a few cryptic “please pray for me” emails to my legion of prayer warriors back home.

At this point, there was still extra security and a cordon set around a large area of the base, so a lot of the roads were blocked off. I came back to the terminal at 9p and asked them about flights and they said that the next day’s 1030 was only going to take cargo and that all the rest of the flights were full! I was told to come back in the morning to see if anyone else would have a spare seat. As I started walking out the door, the lady came out after us and said the General’s flight was inbound. She did some magic on the computer and determined it would be going back to where I needed to go and I had 10 minutes to get my gear.

I ran out of there, but because of the extra security, couldn’t get a vehicle to drive my bags over. I got three friends to run to my building and grab my bags, while I threw on my body-armor and met them there to help get my gear. We had to take a very circuitous route to get to my room with the security-blocks, but between the four of us, we got my stuff and started heading back. When we got close, I told them to take my bags, and I ran the last quarter mile to the terminal to check in.

The lady said she was sorry, but the plane I could hear taxiing away was mine, and I was too late. She said they had been looking for me, but I hadn’t shown up (15 minutes total time to run to my gear and drag it all back). Needless to say, I was pretty bummed (and SWEATY!) from running around and hauling all my gear there only to find out I had missed it by less than a minute. I’m not sure what faith or religion she proclaimed, but I know looking back that at that moment, God whispered to her to take pity and attempt a miracle. About another minute later, she said they had managed to get through to the air controllers on the radio and asked them to turn back around! Thank God that He was willing to help me by using this lady who went the extra mile to help out, and also that God had given the pilot of that C-130 some compassion to add another passenger to his cargo for the night!

We threw my bags into a shuttle van, and she drove like a crazy-woman to get me out to the taxi way where the plane opened up its cargo ramp in the pitch black of night, and off we went!

Without knowing better, people would say “you sure were lucky that the General was getting dropped off that night and his plane had room for you,” or “you sure were lucky to have friends willing to haul your heavy gear to the plane at no benefit to themselves,” or “you sure were lucky the air traffic controller was able to reach the pilot and he was willing to turn around just for you.” And I would say, “There isn’t really luck, but only God’s hand in all aspect of our lives, big or small!”

Page 11: St Luke's Winter 2011 Newsleter

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GOD STORIESBRIDGE Between Parents and TeensBy Sue Acuna

“Why do grown-ups think teen-agers are so bad?” It was a familiar complaint from one of my 8th grade students.

“It’s like this,” I explained. “When you were three and you were unhappy, they could give you a cookie and a hug, and it would make everything all better. Now you’re bigger and moodier and unpredictable, and they don’t know what to do with you.”

“I’d still take the cookie!” she replied.

“Yeah,” came a small voice from the back, “and I’d still take that hug.”

“Adults just don’t get that about teens,” I said. “Some of them are even a little afraid of you.”

“But you get us,” the first girl persisted. “Can’t you talk to our parents?”

And so my blog on parenting teens was born, followed soon after by my own company, BRIDGE*Parenting. BRIDGE is an acronym for six important characteristics of good parenting: Balance, Respect, Inspiration, Discipline, Guidance, and Empathy. I also chose “bridge” because adolescence is a transitional time between childhood and adulthood.

I’m surprised by how often what seems like common sense to me is eye-opening, helpful advice to parents. Take empathy, for example. When faced with a hostile or sullen teen, the best response is one that shows you understand his feelings. Instead of saying, “I don’t know why you get so mad about such a little thing,” it’s better to say, “Wow, I’d be angry too!” or “I don’t blame you for being so upset.” When I point out to parents that this is the kind of response they want from a spouse or a co-worker, they’re often startled as they realize how true this is.

Someone said to me recently, “It feels like common sense to you because it’s a gift from God.” I know this is true, because sometimes I’m blessed with wisdom I never knew I had; it can only be the Holy Spirit speaking through me. Take, for example, the episode I call The Slammed Door. My step-daughter, a single parent raising two teen-aged boys, called me in tears one night.

“I don’t know what to do with Daniel!” she sobbed. “He gets so angry, it almost scares me!”

She had told her 16-year-old that he couldn’t go to a party because she wasn’t confident the parents would stay home and chaperone. Her son yelled at her, “You’re always so mean! Why do you hate me so much!?” Without waiting for an answer, he stomped into his room, slammed his door, and cranked up his music.

“What did you do then?” I asked.

“I went in there and told him he couldn’t talk to me like that! I also told him I was taking away his XBox. And then he swore at me!”

I told her that her first mistake was following him into his room. Of course he was angry at being told no – did she think he would say, “Okay, Mom, I understand”? While slamming a door is not acceptable behavior, that wasn’t the time to deal with it. She should have given him (and herself) time to cool off, and then approached him.

Her second mistake was taking away his XBox. This is often a parent’s first response – to issue a consequence and show who owns the power. I asked her why she’d felt like she had to punish him.

“He can’t talk to me like that!” she protested again. “Was I supposed to just let him get away with it?”

“Let me ask you this,” I said. “What does taking away his Xbox have to do with teaching him the appropriate way to talk to you?” She couldn’t answer that; she just knew she was mad and wanted him to know it. I suggested that when everyone had calmed down (which wasn’t going to happen until a day or two had passed), she should tell him that while he had a right to be angry and to go off and listen to his music as a way to deal with that anger, he was NOT allowed to yell at her or to slam doors. She might also admit she’d overreacted and reinstate his Xbox privileges; such an admission would go a long way toward re-establishing a connection with her son. But she should also caution him that he would only be allowed to attend parties which she felt were properly chaperoned.

She got another chance a few weeks later when her son approached her with, “You’re not gonna let me go to Nathan’s party if his cousin is the chaperone, are you?” When she found out the cousin was only 20 years old, she said, “I know you’re going to be disappointed, but no. I can’t let you go.” “I knew it! You just don’t want me to have any fun!” Daniel disappeared into his room, shutting his door firmly, but not exactly slamming it. When she heard the loud music start, she resisted the urge to follow him.

An hour or so later he came out his room and calmly asked what was for dinner. She was amazed: “He never said another word about the party!”

I’m just happy to be an instrument of peace between parents and their teens. When I get the chance to speak to groups of parents, I remind them that their children are gifts from God, even after they turn 13. I invite them to check out my blog or to email me if there’s any way I can help. And I promise to pray them through these challenging times. It’s humbling to receive a note like the following from Tammy, a regular blog reader:

Thank you for all your words of wisdom and the appropriateness of the timing, I love that you are always just a step ahead of me! This is truly one way I know the Lord helps me, through you! Thank you for being a good and faithful servant, willingly sharing your love from the Lord with all of us. You light up my day when I get your blog. Please keep them coming!

Page 12: St Luke's Winter 2011 Newsleter

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program staff support staffgeneral infochris davis

lead pastor

jake allstaedtassociate pastor

janet brittassistant to the lead pastor

jan grothedirector of spiritual growth

larry kruegerdirector of worship and arts

mitzie olliladirector of children’s ministries

todd zerndirector of operations

donna breyerassistant to the associate pastor

heather halbakkenpreschool registrar

karla harvathassistant to dir of spiritual growth

worship servicessaturday - 5:00 pm

sunday - 8:00, 9:30 and 11:00 am

nursery care available at all services

children’s church and sunday school

available sunday mornings

contact515 s 312th street

federal way, wa 98003253.941.3000

www.stlukes-church.com

St. Luke’s Church515 South 312th StreetFederal Way, WA 98003

RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED

Non-ProfitOrganizationU.S. Postage

PAIDFederal Way, WA 98003

Permit No. 190


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