13401 SW Benish St. Tigard OR 97223 503.524.6646 [email protected] [email protected] www.orlc.net
OUR REDEEMER
LUTHERAN
CHURCH &
SCHOOL
CONNEC O.R.
R e s o u r c e s :
Member Milestones
Events & Activities Calendar
Worship Assistant Chart
Leadership & Board News
Community News
WORSHIP INSIGHTS
Leading Worship at Our Redeemer—
Pastor Dan Bohlken will be with us again to lead worship for
the first three Sundays in February.
Pastor Butch Olsen has accepted the Call to serve as our
Intentional Interim and will be with us starting on February 26.
Our Sunday Worship schedule has changed …
The Season of Lent begins and winter weather communication
plans are outlined …
Stewardship—
How will you use God’s gifts? 2017 Worship Assistant signup.
General Fund and School Finance update…
More on our life of faith …
UPLIFTS
We thank God for the FIVE generous Pastors who have served
at Our Redeemer over the past few months …
2017-18 enrollment for Our Redeemer
Preschool & Kindergarten is off to a great start!
Read more …
EVENTS & UPDATES
Our Redeemer’s Women’s Guild will have a Valentine celebration lunch along with their regular meeting on
February 15 …
Read about upcoming lesson plans for Sunday School classes along with the next ‘Fired Up’ Sundays on the
schedule ...
Youth QUEST events are scheduled for the first and third
Sundays of the month …
Resuming a regular Confirmation Instruction schedule will be
a key priority for Pastor Olsen …
February brings many reasons and many ways to show
LOVE at our Preschool & Kindergarten …
Read more …
COMMUNITY NEWS
Direct 2016 Thrivent Choice Dollars before they expire …
Resources to access or donate to local shelters and
agencies…
Read about a few of these here …
(Right click for more info from any link or )
February 2017
Synopsis: At the November Voters’ Assembly Meeting the congregation voted to issue a Call to Pastor Butch Olsen to serve as Intentional Interim Pastor for Our Redeemer for a period of one year. He has accepted the Call, is currently wrapping up his assignment with Prince of Peace, Portland, and is planning to join us starting Sunday, February 26.
Here’s a brief review of our process, noting our progress-to-date.
√Step One: Guest Pastors.
Our Board of Elders has taken on the task of securing Guest Pastors to lead our worship services each Sunday. We have been blessed to have had engaging, experienced pastors—each bringing a slightly different style to enhance our worship.
√Step Two: Intentional Interim Call.
The Northwest District Office recommended Pastor Butch Olsen as an Intentional Interim Pastor to lead our church family through the pastoral search and Call process. At the November VA meeting, a motion was passed to issue a Call. He accepted the Call and we are awaiting his start date.
Step Three: The Interim Period & Pastoral Search.
We are all looking forward to having Pastor Olsen join us, however, we need to start that relationship by giving him time to get to know us.
Once he has had that opportunity, we can together move ahead with the previously identified steps in the vacancy process:
With his guidance, we will likely work through a series of congregational meetings to define who we are and identify our vision for our future.
At the appropriate point in this process, a Call Committee will be formed and given the charge to search for a new pastor.
February 2017 Worsh ip Ins ights Va c a n c y p l a n s — Pa s t o r B u t c h O l s e n s l a t e d t o a r r i v e F e b r u a r y 2 6
B a c k g r o u n d o n P a s t o r B u t c h O l s e n Professional Info: He was born near Chicago, educated in the Midwest, and graduated
from Wartburg Seminary (American Lutheran Church) in 1972. He served several congregations in the Portland area as an Associate
Pastor through the early 1980’s. Following that for about 20 years, Pastor Olsen was employed in a
family-owned land development and contracting business. In 2000, Pastor Olsen was ordained as an LCMS Pastor, having
completed a colloquy program. He then began 11 years of service at Holy Cross Lutheran in Portland. He retired from Holy Cross in 2012, completed training as an
Intentional Interim Pastor, and began to serve in this capacity. To date, he has served three congregations as an Intentional Interim
Pastor—and is currently completing an assignment at Prince of Peace in Portland.
Personal Info: Pastor Olsen and his wife, Lynn, have been married for 36 years. They have four children—the youngest of which is currently in college. In addition to his background in construction, Pastor Olsen enjoys building race cars. He and his wife live on a small farm in Canby.
The Lord is my strength and my shield; in Him my heart trusts, and I am helped; my heart exults, and with my song I give thanks to Him. Psalm 28:7
Plans have not yet been set for Pastor Olsen’s
installation, but here are a few details regarding his
first days with us—
Pastor Olsen will be leading worship starting
Sunday, February 26.
He wants to meet with our Confirmation families
after worship on that morning to start planning
the when, where, and scheduling details to bring
the program out of hiatus.
Pastor Olsen will be leading Ash Wednesday
service at Our Redeemer on March 1 at 7 pm.
We are planning a welcome potluck dinner to
precede the Ash Wednesday service. Details to
come.
February 2017 Worsh ip Ins ights
Starting
January 29,
Our Redeemer’s
Sunday Worship
schedule changes.
Weather and Services at Our Redeemer
Well, the weather during December and January was certainly interesting, and,
since spring and warmer weather are still quite a ways off, the chance that the
‘interesting’ may return is a definite possibility. With that in mind, the Board of Elders
and the office staff would like to share with you our plan for communicating future
weather-related service changes.
Whenever there are anticipated serious weather issues, the office will send out an
advance email on Thursday or Friday advising members to expect an email on service
decisions either Saturday evening or early Sunday morning. Our Pastor, Board of Elders,
and Sunday School Superintendent will monitor weather and road conditions and reach
a group consensus as early as conditions permit. They will then share that decision
through a group email and by changing the message on the church phone system.
(503.524.6646)
When possible, the Elders will also make individual phone calls to members not
easily reached by email. The office has made a preliminary list of members not reached
by email. If you would like to add your name to the supplemental phone call list, please
let the office know.
Weather related changes may mean that all services and activities are cancelled for
a Sunday, or it may mean that times are shifted to later in the day. In the event that
weather interferes with a weekday service or activity, we will follow this same process
to communicate service changes as early as possible during the afternoon of the event.
In any instance, driving conditions can vary greatly depending upon neighborhoods
and routes. If conditions for your travel seem unsafe, please know that your presence at
church will be missed, but your safety is most important.
W hy t h e c h a n g e ?
Our Sanctuary has 155 upholstered
chairs. Additionally, we have room to
add about 50 folding chairs in the
back. Our Sunday worship attendance
of late has been maxing at about 130.
Simple math equation. These
figures don’t add up to a pressing
need to hold two worship services
every Sunday.
When you also factor in the
benefits of having our entire church
family worshiping together and a
reduction in stress load on our
worship leaders, music leaders and
volunteers, the decision to change our
Sunday Worship Schedule seems
obvious.
Understandably, some adjustments
are required. Everyone will need to
give a little on their preferred time
schedule for Sunday morning. There
will be surprises as members walk in
to find someone else sitting in ‘their’
seat in the Sanctuary.
But these concessions pale in
comparison to the opportunity to
greet and worship with friends on a
weekly basis—strengthening the
bonds of our community as we praise
our God together.
Let’s thank God for CHANGE!
February 2017 Worsh ip Ins ights
Our Financial Snapshot—
*
Bible Studies at Our Redeemer—
Tuesday Morning Women’s Bible Study This weekly women’s Bible study meets each Tuesday
from 9 – 11 am in the Youth Room downstairs. They are in the midst of studying Psalms. All women are invited to attend. Contact Nancy Wollmuth with any questions.
Women's Guild The Women’s Guild will meet on Wednesday, February 15, at 10:30 am for a Bible study, business meeting,
and a Valentine’s celebration luncheon. Their next meeting will be on March 15*. All women are invited to attend.
The Women's Guild supports many aspects of the ministry of Our Redeemer Church as well as the broader mission of the Lutheran Women's Missionary League. Contact Virginia Hilken or Elizabeth Lewis to learn more about this group or its monthly meetings.
Men’s Morning Bible Study This men’s Bible study group meets in the conference room at 6:30 am each Friday. All men are welcome.
Bring your Bible. Coffee is provided. * The Spring Altar Guild Meeting will follow the March 15 Women’s Guild luncheon. The Altar Guild meeting
will start around 1 pm.
$21,042 $20,453
$23,018
$20,489
$12,892
$16,147
$18,256 $18,256 $18,256
OCTOBER NOVEMBER DECEMBER
General Fund Recent Activity
Offerings Expenses Avg. Offerings Needed
General Fund As of December 31, 2016*
General Fund Offerings YTD $126,376
General Fund Expenses YTD $100,416
SURPLUS $25,960
YTD Budget $114,913
*our fiscal year begins July 1
Preschool & Kindergarten 12.31.2016 Checking Balance $30,671
As of December 31, 2016
YTD School Tuitions $65,312
YTD School Expenses $70,058
Stewardship: How wi l l You Use God’s Gifts?
God doesn’t necessarily call us to do great
things, however, He asks that we be trustworthy in
small things (Luke 16:10-11). To that end, He gives
us gifts to use to build up the Body of Christ and to
reach out to the lost.
Some of us have many gifts. People like
Michelangelo – painter, sculptor, and poet – and
Thomas Jefferson – architect, statesman, and
scientific farmer – come to mind.
God, the Giver of gifts, knows that the number
of gifts each of us has varies. Jesus told the Parable
of the Talents pointing to this fact, and teaching us
that success lies in using what we’ve been given, not
in having the greatest amount.
Our gifts also differ in degree. There are many
sculptors, but few, if any, compare to Michelangelo.
Yet, countless artists produce work that brings
satisfaction and inspiration to others.
You may not be able to sing opera, but you can
sing God’s praises. You may not be a great orator,
but you can witness to the love and grace of God in
Christ. You may not be a mechanic, but you can
provide transportation for someone needing to get
to an appointment or to church.
That’s why God gives us gifts and abilities – that
we may be equipped to serve others. The start of a
new year offers us an opportune time to assess
those gifts and see how we can use them for God’s
glory and the good of His people.
The motivation to do this comes from the same
One Who gave the gifts! Just as He was motivated
by love for us to give us, not just our gifts, but the
greatest gift of His Son, so we are motivated by love
for Him to serve those around us.
February 2017 Worsh ip Ins ights
2017 Worship Assistant Signup
We are in the process of signing up volunteers to serve as 2017 Worship Assistants. This year we have put out a week-by-week self-assign chart.
If you have been hesitant in the past to sign up to greet, usher, or deacon because it was a month-long commitment—no more! You can sign up for just the Sundays when you are available. Of course, you are still welcome to volunteer your service for a whole month IF that works for you.
Please take a look at the chart on the piano in the back of the Sanctuary and pledge your support to our ministry by signing up to serve as a …
greeter—say ‘Hello’ at the door
usher—distribute bulletins, provide Offering & Communion assistance
acolyte—light candles
reader—share lessons
deacon—assist in serving Communion
AV assistant—projector help
Your help in filling these roles is very important in enhancing our Sunday worship environment. With our new single-service schedule, we would still like to see many members serving in these roles—but hope that each may enjoy a lightened work load—freeing them for other types of involvement or service.
If you have any questions about the requirements for Worship Assistant service, please speak with one of our Elders.
‘Having gifts that differ according to the grace giv-en to us, let us use them…’ Romans 12:6
February 2017 Uplifts
Up lifts /ˌəpˈlifts/ thoughts or events that are inspiring, moving, heartening, or encouraging
To date during our Pastoral Vacancy, we have been blessed to have FIVE generous men share their presence and their talents with us to lead our Sunday worship services—
Dr. Leonard Harms
Pastor Dan Bohlken
Pastor Will Gehrke
Rev. Dr. Paul Linnemann
Dr. Norman Metzler
We have gained from the unique perspectives that each of them have offered and thank God for the time they have shared with us.
The 2017-18 school year will mark TEN years of operation for Our
Redeemer Preschool & Kindergarten. What better way to start this
school year with a PHENOMENAL REGISTRATION DRIVE!
Advance enrollment for church and school families opened on
January 4 when our students returned from Christmas break.
Several snow storms and many missed days of class later, and
enrollment was opened to the public at an Open House on
January 24.
As this is written on January 26, we have just TWELVE remaining
openings in the school. Our 3’s and Kindergarten classes
(traditionally the slowest to fill) have only FOUR openings
between them!
As Jan Luedtke, our school’s first Director would say …
“God is good, all the time! All the time, God is good!”
‘Fired Up’ Sundays … A ‘hands-on’ lesson designed to help our students connect to the Bible from a new
perspective. Next on our schedule: Preschool to 5th Middle & High School February 12 Renae Johnson / Craft Christy Andrea / Music
April 9 Susan Harms / Service Darlene Thauland / Cooking
Fired up for
Jesus
Events & Updates February 2017
Sunday School Plans
Sunday School begins at 9 am with a brief musical opening in the Sanctuary. Students then break off into age-specific classes.
Upcoming lessons: Feb. 5 ‘Wow’—Jesus Changed Water into Wine John 2:1-11 Feb. 12 FIRED UP Feb. 19 Cleansed—Jesus Clears the Temple John 2:13-22 Feb. 26 Seeing and Not Seeing—Jesus Teaches Nicodemus John 3:1-21 Mar. 5 Which Drink Is for You—Jesus and the Samaritan Woman John 4:1-42 Mar. 12 Thumbs Up, Thumbs Down—Jesus is Rejected at Nazareth Luke 4:16-30 Mar. 19 Get Out the Message—Jesus Calls Disciples Matthew 4:12-25 Mar. 26 No Sunday School—Spring Break begins
Youth Events: Building bonds beyond Sunday …
Notice for Confirmation
Students and Parents—
Confirmation Instruction plans
have been on hold as we have
waited for the arrival of our
Intentional Interim Pastor.
Pastor Olsen plans to begin
classes soon after his
arrival. There will be a special
opportunity for Confirmation
families to meet with him
following worship on
Feb. 26. Details to follow. 6-8 pm Feb. 5 & 19 and Mar. 5 & 19
Sunday School: engaging students in new ways …
Our Redeemer School Updates February 2017
“I will praise You, O Lord, my God, with all my heart!” Psalm 86:12
The HEART of education at Our Redeemer Preschool and Kindergarten is not in buildings, personnel or books. The HEART of education experienced here is in the biggest, warmest, unchanging HEART of all---the HEART of a loving God!
Each school day the children hear about our loving and faithful God. They are assured that they are precious to the HEART of God. The children continue to grow intellectually, emotionally, socially and spiritually. They bring the Good News of salvation in Jesus Christ home to their families and friends.
What joy we have as we serve our Lord and our school families with all of our HEART.
With Love and Joy,
Darlene Thauland
Classes offered for the 2017-18 school year include:
TWO morning classes for 3-year-olds
THREE classes for 4-year-olds (Morning and Extended-Day options)
ONE kindergarten class (licensed by the State of Oregon)
We are excited to minister to children and their families telling them daily about the amazing love of Jesus.
Enrollment for 2017-18 has been phenomenal. As of January 26 we have only a dozen slots remaining before 100% enrollment! To learn more about the program or schedule a tour, contact Darlene Thauland at 503.524.6646 or e-mail: [email protected].
[Jesus said] “These things I have spoken to you, that My
joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full. This is
My commandment, that you love one another as I have
loved you.” John 15:11-12
During the month of February, the preschoolers and kindergartners will have the opportunity to put their love for Jesus into loving service for others. They will enjoy making tokens of love to share with their families and Our Redeemer shut-ins. They will exchange greetings of friendship with each other at annual Valentine parties.
Our Chapel offering will be going to help support the Workman Family’s mission in Japan. Jan and Krystal Workman are parents of three current preschoolers at our school, and Jan is Norma Reynolds’ grandson. They are preparing to leave next fall to begin a mission assignment in
Japan. If you want to follow along on their journey, visit www.jkworkman.com.
Our school will be spreading love as the children deliver Valentines with the message of God’s Love to those who live in the neighborhood adjacent to Our Redeemer.
Teaching our school children about the opportunity and joy of giving is an important life lesson. Even these little ones can learn the joy of lovingly serving others in the name of Jesus.
L o v i n g S e r v i c e
February 2017 Member Milestones & Concerns
Ca r i ng f o r and Ce l e b r a t i ng w i t h Ou r Fam i l y
Birthdays Name Birthday Matt Johnson 2/3
Nicholas Leinberger 2/5
Griffin Albertson 2/6
Jacob Chinn 2/6
Christopher Lewis 2/6
Richard Rohde 2/9
Jesse Dill 2/9
Kyla Albertson 2/9
Gwenyth O’Brien 2/10
Cameron Taylor 2/12
Erin Eberlein 2/15
Carson Kaiser 2/16
Joelle McCormick 2/16
Judah Dill 2/18
Amy Bartizal 2/22
Jane Borsvold 2/24
Rebecca Sanchez 2/24
Heidi Bossert 2/28
Birthdays Name Birthday
Noah Reitmeier 3/4
Sigrid Rule 3/4
Mark Smith 3/5
Nora Dill 3/9
Abby Andrea 3/13
Cathy Wilson 3/13
Sue Rosenbloom 3/14
Tom O’Brien 3/15
Al Roth 3/15
Jana Brekke 3/19
Kaden Stoecker 3/24
David Symes 3/25
Rick Peterson 3/25
Ted McLean 3/26
Jacob Harbolt 3/27
Nancy Wollmuth 3/28
Bob Smith 3/29
Anniversaries Name Anniversary Gary & Colleen Elings 2/2
Bob & Sue Rosenbloom 2/5
Chuck & Ellen Roluffs 2/6
Bob & Carol Smith 2/8
Dave & Joan Witthans 2/27
Al & Brenda Cabrera 3/9
Richard & Jackie Watkins 3/16
Joe & Heidi Bossert 3/24
Mark & Janet Christenson 3/31
Our Church is built of people, each one an essential part of our family and the ministry we seek to accomplish.
One important aspect of our ministry is caring for one another, and, in this light, it is important that we care for and stay in touch with all of our members. This includes those unable to attend church regularly because of health limitations, those currently serving in the U.S. military who may be stationed in other parts of the country or abroad, and those celebrating notable birthdays.
To support these members and let them know that they are a vital part of our church family, we include their names in our newsletter with a gentle request for all to remember them in prayer, and/or reach out to connect with a phone call or card. Please don’t wait for an invitation to make contact, or expect that others have this covered. A small action on your part can bring a blessing to someone else’s day. Please contact the church office if you need contact information.
This month –
Our loving thoughts and prayers of support go out to the family of Virginia Kamprath. Virginia was taken to her heavenly home on Saturday, January 21, at the end of a long life filled with accomplishments, family and friends.
Her family is planning a Memorial Service for the first weekend of March. Details will be shared as they are available. If you would like to send a sympathy card, Virginia’s family can be reached at her address in the Our Redeemer directory.
Our loving thoughts and prayers of support for on-going health challenges go out to:
Kay Grimm Audrey Harbolt
Ilo Stammer Jackie Watkins
Joan Witthans
Our thoughts of gratitude and prayers for continued safety go out to those currently serving in the U.S. military,
including:
Jacob Harbolt Carrie Martin
February 2017 Church Leadership & Board News
Our Redeemer Staff
School Director / Teacher: Darlene Thauland [email protected]
Ministry Coordinator: Laurie O’Brien [email protected]
Ministry Assistant: Susan Stubblefield [email protected]
Our Redeemer’s Ministry Leaders Worship Team Leader: Amy Gehrke
Organist: Sandee Waide
Congregational President: Todd Reitmeier
Congregational VP: David Hardman
Congregational Secretary: Colleen Elings
Congregational Treasurer: Bob Peters
Assistant Treasurer: Brian Thauland
Finance Director: Brian Thauland
BOD Members-at-Large:
Rita Tornblad
Erin Eberlein
Ken Gullberg
Financial Secretary: Tom Moeller
Contributions Secretary: Susan Stubblefield
Board of Elders Chair: Matt Johnson
Board of Properties Chair: Bob Peters, acting
Children’s Ministry Chair: Andrea Johnson
Youth Ministry Chair: Patrick Hendrix
School Board Chair: Brian Amberg
Sunday School Superintendents: Ken & Susan Harms
Assimilation & Stewardship Chair: Tom Moeller
Altar Guild Chair: Waverly Peterson
While we are in the midst of transition, if you should have an emergency or other need for spiritual support, please contact one of our Elders. They will make every effort to see that your need is addressed. Matt Johnson 503.819.3313 Gary Bickford 503.620.4814 Pete Eberlein 503.524.2190 Ken Harms 503.579.5667 Andy Johnson 503.521.8051 Terry Wilson 503.297.5133
Our Redeemer Lutheran Church Board of Directors’ Meeting
November 8, 2016
Attending: Bob Peters, Colleen Elings, Matt Johnson, Laurie O’Brien, Brian Amberg, Darlene Thauland, Brian Thauland, Ken Gullberg, Todd Reitmeier, Rita Tornblad Absent: Erin Eberlein, Dave Hardman
BOE Guests: Pete Eberlein, Andy Johnson, Gary Bickford
Guest: Butch Olsen (Intentional Interim Pastor candidate)
The meeting was called to order at 7:04 pm and Matt Johnson opened with prayer.
BUSINESS
1. Intentional Interim Pastor - Introduction of Pastor Butch Olsen, Intentional Interim Pastor (IIP) candidate. Pastor Butch shared his background and experience. A lengthy question and answer discussion between Pastor Butch and the BOD/BOE ensued. Butch has previously served as an IIP three times and has been doing so for six years. IIPs typically serve for an initial 12-month Call, extended in 3-month periods as needed. An IIP cannot be Called as our Pastor. Pastor Butch would be available in February 2017. Motion was made that the BOD recommend to the VA that we extend a Call to Butch Olsen as Intentional Interim Pastor. Motion was seconded and passed.
2. Last Month’s BOD Minutes - The minutes from the last meeting were approved as submitted.
3. VA Meeting – Scheduled for November 20th at 11:30 am, after a single worship service. Todd
Reitmeier will pull the supporting slides together for the VA presentations.
REPORTS
1. Treasurer’s Report. Bob Peters’ report showed that October finances reflect a surplus of $553. General Fund expenses for October were $20,489. General Fund offerings/income for the month were $21,042. Building Fund offerings/interest for the month were $711. General Fund checking account balance at the end of October was $19,328 and the ending Accounts Payable balance is $0. Borrowing from the savings account is unchanged at $89,000. We are waiting on $1,400 from the Scholarship Fund to reimburse the General Fund for the recent scholarship award. We are also waiting on $8,000 from the sale of the Schulze house to close out the note that the church extended when the house was purchased. The total balance in the Building Fund account is $317,558 of which $262,194 is dedicated toward new construction.
2. The balance of the regular monthly reports were held this month, due to length of meeting. The date for the next BOD meeting was set for Tuesday, December 13, 2016.
Matt Johnson closed the meeting with prayer at 8:38 pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Colleen Elings
Secretary, Board of Directors
February 2017 Church Leadership & Board News Our Redeemer Lutheran Church
Voters’ Assembly Meeting Minutes
November 20, 2016
The meeting for Our Redeemer’s Voters’ Assembly was called to order at 11:48 am by Todd Reitmeier, Chairman of the Board of Directors. Matt Johnson opened the meeting with prayer.
The attendance roster was passed among those present for signatures. With 55 of 83 total voting members present, a quorum was established.
Minutes of the May 2016 Voters’ Assembly meeting were approved as written.
REPORTS
1. Elders’ Report – Matt Johnson shared that the BOE doesn’t have a formal report this month, as their primary focus has been on the New Business item addressing an Intentional Interim Pastor. The BOE has been discussing moving to one service on Sundays, especially in light of the fact we are minus a Pastor. They would appreciate every member providing feedback on this idea to one of the members of the BOE or BOD.
2. Treasurer Report – Bob Peters reported that YTD (through Oct. 31) finances reflect a surplus of $11,529. General fund expenses YTD were $71,376. General fund offerings/income were $82,905. Building Fund offerings/interest were $2,387. General Fund checking account balance at the end of the month was $19,328 and the ending Accounts Payable balance is $0. Borrowing from the savings account is unchanged at $89,000. Bob is waiting on $1,400 from the Scholarship Fund to reimburse the General Fund for the recent scholarship award. He is also waiting on $8,000 from the sale of the Schulze house. The total balance in the Building Fund accounts is $317,558 of which $262,194 is dedicated toward new construction.
3. Board of Properties – Bob Peters shared that all indoor florescent tubes were replaced with LED tubes at the beginning of the year. We have already realized $60/month savings in our electric bill. We will save even more if we do the same with the lights in the parking lot. If we were to convert them to LED, projected savings would be $783 annually, with a $9,000 bulb replacement savings over 10 years. The total cost to convert is $5,070. After an expected Energy Trust of Oregon rebate of $1,825, the net cost of this parking light conversion project would be $3,245. A motion was made, seconded and passed to move forward with the parking lot light conversion project.
4. Youth & Children’s Ministries – Patrick Hendrix and Andrea Johnson reported that these two ministries have been combined. God has blessed us with a solid relationship with our youth. Based on the previous work done by Joel Zander and Pastor Mark; we have a good, strong foundation on which to continue. Every other week, we have a Sunday Youth Group called ‘Quest’. Quest will help the youth grow in God and build trust among each other. The Sunday School this year has added a program called “Fired Up”. Cooking projects, games, arts and crafts, are all planned—bringing the message of the bible to students in new and unexpected ways. The Harvest Party was a success with over 300 participants from the community.
5. School Report – Darlene Thauland shared that school is ‘better than good’. Nine years ago, we prayed this school into existence and this year, every seat is filled. We have already had many inquiries about the 2017/2018 school year, which speaks to the school program’s success. The Christmas program is scheduled for December 10, 2016.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS No unfinished business.
NEW BUSINESS
1. Intentional Interim Pastor (IIP) – Matt Johnson explained the Intentional Interim Pastor process. This person fills the vacancy and helps the congregation identify and prepare for a new full-time pastor. At the moment, we have had several ‘guest’ pastors filling in for Sunday Services since Pastor Mark’s departure. The IIP typically signs on for a one-year contract, during which time the IIP guides the congregation in finding a pastor, as well as fulfilling all the duties of a full-time pastor. The IIP CANNOT accept the pastor position. This process will help us to get a better sense of who we are as a congregation, so we can choose a permanent pastor that best meets our needs. The BOE passed a motion to move in this direction. They then presented the issue to the BOD, who also passed a motion for same. Pastor Butch Olsen was brought forward in consideration for ORLC’s IIP, via Paul Linnemann from the Northwest District Office. Pastor Olsen received his certification as IIP in 2011 and has filled this role in three other churches to date—currently at Prince of Peace. Pastor Olsen would be available to start at ORLC in February in 2017. Motion was made, seconded and passed to extend a Call to Butch Olsen to become our Intentional Interim Pastor.
2. Building Expansion Committee – Andy Johnson shared that a small group has been formed to discuss options on how we might expand our school space and, possibly, our sanctuary. For the last few years, we have had a pretty significant wait list for our school program (we had 37 children on the wait list for the 2016/17 year), so expanded space would offer a chance to expand this ministry.
3. Reception of New Members – Amon and Megan Johnson, Aaron and Jennifer Monnig, and Pat DeRousie came forward to be accepted as members.
(Continued next page)
Our Redeemer Lutheran Church
Board of Directors’ Meeting December 13, 2016
Attending: Colleen Elings, Laurie O’Brien, Ken Gullberg, Darlene Thauland, Brian Thauland, Rita Tornblad, Todd Reitmeier, Erin Eberlein, Brian Amberg, Dave Hardman Absent: Matt Johnson, Bob Peters The meeting was called to order at 7:06 pm and Todd Reitmeier opened with prayer. REPORTS
1. Board of Elders’ Report. Matt
Johnson was absent. BOD members present discussed having a single service starting in January instead of February.
2. Treasurer’s Report. Bob Peters’ report reflected that November finances show a surplus of $7,561. General Fund expenses for November were $12,892. General Fund offerings/income for the month were $20,453. Building Fund offerings/interest for the month were $581. General Fund checking account balance at the end of the month
was $26,934 and the ending Accounts Payable balance is $0. Borrowing from the savings account is unchanged at $89,000. The cash surplus is getting large enough to repay some of the loan. At the end of December, Bob will hold enough cash to cover pending bills and payroll and make a determination as to how much can safely be repaid. We are waiting on $1,400 from the Scholarship Fund to reimburse the General Fund for the recent scholarship award. We are also waiting on $8,000 from the sale of the Schulze house to repay the note that was extended when the house was purchased. The total balance in the Building Fund account is $318,158 of which $262,309 is dedicated toward new construction.
3. Board of Properties Report. Bob Peters was absent.
4. Ministries Events & Stewardship. Dave Hardman shared that the stewardship committee recommended to the Board of Elders that we move to a single service until the Interim Pastor is on board. There is a lot of momentum and participation from our youth in the various activities that have been planned twice monthly. A new television has been purchased and will be installed in the youth room.
5. School Report. Darlene Thauland reported that this year’s school Christmas program was held at the Bethlehem Lutheran Community Center in Aloha. It was a packed house and our preschool and kindergarten children delighted
the parents, teachers and friends who were present. Darlene also shared that the School Expansion Committee is still researching different options. Pastor Butch may be able to offer guidance to us in this area.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
1. Intentional Interim Pastor – Todd Reitmeier and Matt Johnson will be meeting with Butch Olson to review his contract.
NEW BUSINESS
1. Advent services this year have been poorly attended. Discussion ensued as to whether we should continue to hold Advent services in the future. Any decision was tabled until our Interim Pastor is on board.
2. Todd will ask the BOE regarding reporting weekly attendance numbers to the BOD.
The date for the next BOD meeting was set for Tuesday, January 10, 2017. Todd Reitmeier closed the meeting with prayer at 7:36 pm.
Respectfully submitted, Colleen Elings
Our January
Board of Directors’
Meeting was
cancelled due to
SNOW.
February 2017 Church Leadership & Board News November Voters’ Meeting Continued
Date of next meeting
The next Voters’ Assembly meeting has been set for May 21, 2017.
The meeting was closed in prayer at 12:54 pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Colleen Elings
Secretary
A r e a L u t h e r a n S c h o o l s Our Redeemer Lutheran Preschool (3’s & 4’s) & Kindergarten* Ph: 503-524-6646 www.orlc.net
Bethlehem Lutheran Preschool, Aloha Classes for 3’s & 4’s. Phone: 503-649-3380
Forest Hills Lutheran School, Cornelius Quality education with small classes. PS 3 & 4; K to 8th grade. Call to schedule a tour. Ph: 503-359-4853 www.fhls.org
Good Shepherd’s Little Lambs Preschool/Daycare, Portland Ph: 503-244-4558
Living Savior Preschool, Tualatin Ph: 503-692-3303
Pilgrim Lutheran School, Beaverton Preschool to 8th grade. Ph: 503-644-8697
Prince of Peace Lutheran, Portland Preschool & Kindergarten. Ph: 503-645-1211
St. Paul Lutheran School, Sherwood Preschool to 5th grade. Ph: 503-625-6648
Trinity Lutheran Preschool, Hillsboro Ph: 503-846-1319
Zion Lutheran Preschool, Hillsboro Ph: 503-640-8914
*Tuition assistance may be available through our School Tuition Assistance Fund (Contact Darlene Thauland).
February 2017 Community News
Recent sub-freezing temperatures, along with snow and
ice, have been quite jarring in a community where we
are used to a much more temperate climate. At the
same time, the issue of homelessness is a dominant
story in the news—and this is a problem that extends
from the city to the suburbs and beyond.
If you find yourself or someone you know in need of
weather-related shelter or assistance, or would like to
learn about other agencies where you can offer support,
here are several good resources:
http://211info.org/emergency—locations, hours
and contact info for cold weather shelters by county
in Oregon and Southwest Washington
http://211info.org/donations—lists agencies
accepting donations of blankets, coats and other
supplies
Love INC—TTS. www.loveinc-tts.org or
503.443.6888—provides a clearinghouse linking
programs from local churches and agencies with
families in
need in the
Tualatin,
Tigard and
Sherwood
communities
Cold Weather Helps
Thrivent Choice Dollars—Direct 2016 Dollars by March 31
Thank you to all Thrivent members who directed their Choice Dollars to Our Redeemer last year. Your simple action made a significant contribution to our ministry. Since the program started in 2010, Our Redeemer has received over $13,000 in Choice Dollars – money that flows into our General Fund to support the programs approved in our annual budgeting process and to help cover the monthly operating expenses for our ministry.
Key facts regarding this program: The Thrivent Choice program lets eligible members direct where some of Thrivent Financial’s charitable
outreach funds are distributed. Your allocations do not hold forever, so it is useful to check periodically to insure that your available
Choice Dollars go to the charity of your choice. Our Redeemer Church and School is one of the options. 2016 Dollars EXPIRE ON MARCH 31, so go online or call to check your balance. Go to www.Thrivent.com/thriventchoice or call 1-800-THRIVENT and state ‘Thrivent Choice’.
Our Redeemer Lutheran Church February 2017
B = Blended Organ & Worship Team
T = Organ Led Worship
NT = Worship Team Led Worship
NT
Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
January 29
NEW SCHEDULE
9:00a Education Hour
10:15a Worship & Communion
January 30
January 31
9:00a Tuesday AM Women’s Bible Study
February 1
6:30p Worship Team Practice
February 2
7:00p Board of Elders’ Mtg.
February 3
6:30a Men’s Bible Study
February 4
February 5
9:00a Education Hour
10:15a Worship & Communion
12:30p Youth & Children’s Ministry Meeting
6-8p Youth QUEST
February 6
February 7
9:00a Tuesday AM Women’s Bible Study
7:00p Board of Properties Mtg.
February 8
February 9
February 10
6:30a Men’s Bible Study
February 11
February 12
9:00a Education Hour ‘Fired Up’ Sunday School
10:15a Worship & Communion
February 13
4’s Preschool Valentine’s Party
7:15p School Board Meeting
February 14
9:00a Tuesday AM Women’s Bible Study
3’s Preschool & Kindergarten Valentine’s Party
7:00p Board of Directors’ Mtg.
February 15
10:30a Women’s Guild Meeting & Luncheon
6:30p Worship Team Practice
February 16 February 17
6:30a Men’s Bible Study
February 18
February 19
9:00a Education Hour
10:15a Worship & Communion
6-8p Youth QUEST
February 20
PRESIDENT’S DAY
No School
Office Closed
February 21
9:00a Tuesday AM Women’s Bible Study
February 22 February 23 February 24
6:30a Men’s Bible Study
February 25
February 26
9:00a Education Hour
10:15a Worship & Communion
February 27 February 28
9:00a Tuesday AM Women’s Bible Study
March 1
ASH WEDNESDAY
6:00p Potluck Dinner
7:00p Ash Wednesday Worship & Communion
March 2
7:00p Board of Elders’ Meeting
March 3
6:30a Men’s Bible Study
March 4
NT
B
T
T
NT
SERVIN
G O
N
SUN
DAY
S …
Jan
ua
ry 2
9,
2017
th
rou
gh
Fe
bru
ary
26
, 20
17
Ja
nu
ary
29
Fe
bru
ary
5
Feb
ruar
y 1
2
Feb
ruar
y 1
9
Feb
ruar
y 2
6
Wo
rsh
ip S
tyle
B
len
ded
Org
an /
Pra
ise
Team
No
n-T
rad
itio
nal
Pra
ise
Team
Trad
itio
nal
Org
an L
ed
No
n-T
rad
itio
nal
Pra
ise
Team
Trad
itio
nal
Org
an L
ed
Flo
wer
s O
pen
O
pen
Ja
ne
Bo
rsvo
ld
Op
en
Op
en
Rea
der
s
10
:15
am
Nan
cy W
ollm
uth
Su
san
Stu
bb
lefi
led
Pet
e Eb
erle
in
Nan
cy W
ollm
uth
C
on
nie
Cre
sto
Aco
lyte
10
:15
am
Isab
ella
Har
ms
Gra
nt
Stu
bb
lefi
eld
Ja
ck E
ber
lein
M
iria
m J
oh
nso
n
Alli
son
Jo
hn
son
Dea
con
10
:15
am
Joh
n A
nd
rea
Do
n S
tub
ble
fiel
d
Matt
Jo
hn
son
D
ave
Har
dm
an
Matt
Jo
hn
son
Ush
ers
10
:15
am
Bri
an T
hau
lan
d
Bo
b P
eter
s
Pat
rick
& Z
ach
Hen
dri
x
Tom
& L
auri
e
O’B
rien
Tom
& L
auri
e
O’B
rien
Pat
rick
& Z
ach
Hen
dri
x
Eld
er o
n D
uty
P
ete
Eber
lein
—Ja
n. 2
9 /
Matt
Jo
hn
son
—Fe
bru
ary
Fin
ance
Tea
m
D. H
ard
man
& G
. Bic
kfo
rd—
Jan
. 29
/ T
. Mo
elle
r &
G. O
lin—
Feb
ruar
y
Gre
eter
s G
. Bic
kfo
rd &
P. E
ber
lein
—Ja
n. 2
9 /
Matt
& A
nd
rea
Joh
nso
n—
Feb
ruar
y
Alt
ar G
uild
W
. Pet
erso
n &
V. H
ilken
—Ja
n. 2
9 /
R. T
orn
bla
d &
S. O
lin—
Feb
ruar
y
20
17
Wo
rsh
ip A
ssis
tan
ts’ S
che
du
le:
If y
ou
are
will
ing
to s
erv
e an
d h
ave
tim
ing
pre
fere
nce
s, p
leas
e
sign
up
on
th
e ch
arts
at
the
bac
k o
f th
e Sa
nct
uar
y. O
nce
th
e c
har
ts h
ave
be
en r
em
ove
d, o
pe
nin
gs w
ill
rem
ain
. Ple
ase
con
tact
Su
san
in t
he
offi
ce if
yo
u w
ou
ld li
ke t
o v
olu
nte
er.
(su
san
s@o
rlc.
net
).