april messenger

20
1 The mission of the American Lutheran Congregation is to bring people of different nations and denominations together, and in the English language, empower them into becoming fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ. The ALC Messenger Volume 57 Issue 4 April 2013 To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven: A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted Ecclesiastes 3:1

Upload: american-lutheran-congregation-in-oslo

Post on 22-Mar-2016

228 views

Category:

Documents


1 download

DESCRIPTION

 

TRANSCRIPT

Page 1: April Messenger

1

The mission of the American Lutheran Congregation is to bring people of

different nations and denominations together, and in the English language,

empower them into becoming fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ.

The ALC Messenger Volume 57 Issue 4 April 2013

To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven:

A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which

is planted Ecclesiastes 3:1

Page 2: April Messenger

2

American Lutheran Congregation

Pastor: Timothy Stewart

Office secretary: Rie Melhoos

Council President: Robert Sebro

Messenger Editors : Mel Engebretsen, Rie Melhoos.

Visiting address: Fritzners gate 15, 0264 Oslo, Norway

Mailing Address: PO Box 3012 Elisenberg, 0207 Oslo,

Norway

Phone: + 47 22 44 35 84

Fax: +47 22 44 30 15

Email: [email protected]

Webpage: www.alcoslo.org

Bank account number for offerings :5081.07.47827

The ALC Messenger Monthly Newsletter for the American Lutheran Congregation

INDEX

ALC INFORMATION

INDEX

PAGE 2 CALENDAR PAGE 10

PASTOR’S CORNER

PAGE 3

OFFERINGS

PAGE 11

CONGRATULATIONS

YOUTH SUNDAY

PRESIDENT’S CORNER

PAGES 4- 5

LIVING ABROAD,

HOPES & FEARS,

PAGES 12-15

FRIDAY WOMEN

PRAYER GROUP PAGES 6-7

BIRTHDAYS,

COUNCIL MINUTES,

PAGES 15-17

WOMENS RETREAT

MATTIE MAE

PAGES 8-9

MONDAY MORNING BIBLE

STUDY

SPRING BRING & BUY

PAGES 18- 20

Page 3: April Messenger

3

Pastor’s Corner

Dear Friends,

Grace to you and peace from God the Father and our Lord Jesus Christ!

About 50 Kilometers from our old house in Tacoma, Washington, stood Mt. Ranier. At

over 4000 meters it simply dominated the landscape and towered over everything else in

view. When we first moved to Tacoma, it seemed that the mountain was always draw-

ing my attention and I would be struck anew. It became the thing I looked for first in the

morning or when returning home from a trip. When I saw ‘the mountain’, and that’s all

anyone who lived there ever called it, ‘the mountain’, I knew I was almost home. But I

wondered how my reaction would change over time. Does that sense of awe go away?

Is one startled by the sudden appearance of the mountain after a few months? A few

years? Does one stop ‘seeing’ it after awhile?

We are now in the early days of Easter and the Risen Christ towers over our lives. The

empty tomb and all that means to us, and for us, dominate the landscape of our life in

the faith. But I wonder, do we still ‘see’ it all? Are we still awed, silenced and startled

by Christ’s ultimate act of love for us and God’s profound act of promise? This is our

time to bathe in the wonder of how deeply God loves creation. This is our time to find

joy in the proved promise that death cannot hold in the face of God’s determined grace.

Now we dance in the assurance of our own ultimate life in the presence of God, singing,

dancing, feasting at the divinely set wedding banquet. But do we hold fast to the awe,

wonder and joy of the empty tomb and its inherent promise for our life? Or do we stop

seeing? I think this is part of our challenge. To return to the world from the joy of Easter

and not forget to keep looking and seeing what is most important, most essential, what

is life itself for us.

The gift of awe is a sweet gift indeed. Awe at an unbelievably tall mountain lit by the

early sun and breaking through the morning mist. But that awe is nothing to the awe at

what God has done. Shifted the creaking world on its axis, shown death banished, life

restored and hope a flame that will not be quenched. Let that awe be your companion in

the midst of a busy spring with work and family and play calling on your attention and

occupying our mind. be sure to leave some space for the awe of God’s act of love and

grace. the rest of it will be all the sweeter for it.

God bless you all in this Easter season.

In Christ,

Pastor Tim Stewart

Page 4: April Messenger

4

Jr & Sr Youth

Sunday, May 5th

The Jr. and Sr. Youth of the congregation will lead wor-

ship on Sunday May 5th.

Be sure to join us for worship that day and receive the

gift of their leadership in worship.

Parents please note that we will have a rehearsal after

worship on Sunday, April 28th.

Congratulations to

Kelvin and Erica Woods

on the birth of a beautiful,

and healthy baby !

Children are a gift from the LORD; they

are a real blessing.

Psalm 127:3

Page 5: April Messenger

5

President’s Corner

REJOICE! CHRIST IS RISEN!

Looking back at the last 2 months the ALC has had a high activity level.

Wednesday evening Lent soup supper and worship is always a favorite for me.

I enjoy fellowship while eating various kinds of soups, followed by messages

from different members of our church family. So many of you have shared

your time and gifts to make the Lenten journey a period of reflection and teach-

ing. More members than ever contributed to the Lenten booklet.

What a wonderful daily gift that was! This year?s Seder meal had many help-

ing hands, and was attended by a great group! Easter Sunday starting with

breakfast and a fantastic spread of egg dishes, followed by a beautiful and well

attended worship service.

Thank you all! CHRIST IS RISEN ! HE IS RISEN INDEED!

As I reflect on how many of you contribute to the activities, and the running of

the ALC I realize how God works among us. An example is what happens on

any given Sunday: We are greeted by members, as we arrive, music flows from

our talented group of musicians practicing in the Sanctuary. The sanctuary is

tidy and clean, the alter guild has prepared the nave, candles are ready, vest-

ments are in place, the hymnal board is updated, and flowers are on the stand.

We receive the bulletin from our ushers. Sometimes we can even smell waffles

being made in the kitchen, and hear that they are setting out tables and chairs.

Then there are all those who are running around getting Sunday school ready

for the kids. The baby sitter is in the nursery. Pastor leads us in worship, aided

by worship assistants, and readers. We receive the word of God, and are prayed

for by caring lay readers. After the service there are formal and informal meet-

ings going on. This is probably not a complete list, but you now have a good

idea of how important each of you is in the running of our church.

Moving on to upcoming events; we will be having our first work day on April

27th, and the Spring Bring and Buy sale on May 4th. Your help and contribu-

tions are needed for these activities, so please sign up!

Continue to volunteer your time, talents, and resources to make our congrega-

tion grow stronger, make new friends, and enjoy the great fellowship at the

ALC!

Peace Bob

Page 6: April Messenger

6

Friday Evening Women’s Fellowship

Also, mark your calendars and plan to join us

for our next Friday Evening Women's Fellow-

ship on Friday, April 26th.

Sharon Hermanson has kindly offered to host

us that evening - thank you, Sharon!

If you haven't been to one of these Fellowship evenings before, please know

that you are very welcome to join us! These are friendly, informal gatherings

of women. Often there is a short program or discussion, sometimes there is a

fun game, always there is much laughter and good opportunity for getting to

know one another better than we're able to do during the short time we have

after church on Sundays.

A bit of food or drink is always welcome, but please don't feel obligated to

bring anything.

If you know ahead of time that you will be attending, please RSVP to

Mary Ann Stewart at the [email protected] or by

SMS at 489 92 659.

It would be helpful for Sharon to know roughly how many people are coming.

But if you forget to RSVP, please come anyway!

We look forward to seeing you on the 26th!

Prayers

If you have prayer concerns, please contact our

Prayer Chain administrator, Gillian Holby, at

[email protected] or the church office.

Thank you.

Page 7: April Messenger

7

Change in Tax Refund for Offerings

For several years donations to the ALC for up to 12,000 kr.

have qualified as a tax deduction under the Norwegian tax

system. The tax rules have been changed and because our

church has not been deemed to be of a national nature,

donations to the ALC no longer qualify.

Deductions for 2012 taxes will not be allowed.

The board and council are looking into possibilities to try and change our status

for 2013 and future years. We will keep our members informed.

If you have any questions please contact, Pastor Stewart, Arthur Melhoos,

Bob Sebro or Lars Andreas Lunde.

Invitation From the Prayer Group

The Wednesday Prayer Group will be starting a new Bible study

on April 17th, at 7 PM in the Fireside Room. We will be study-

ing the life and ministry of the prophet Elijah, one of the greatest

Old Testament prophets. The study is entitled: Elijah. Obedi-

ence in a Threatening World. (Fisherman Bible Study Series).

It looks at how we can obey and serve God in a society which can

be negative and even hostile to Biblical faith. Everyone is welcome to join us for

this new study, which runs ten weeks.

On behalf of the Prayer Group,

Richard Blucher

[email protected] mob. 92248547

Page 8: April Messenger

8

Our Facilitator -----------------

“Caroline illuminated the room with her energy, insights, and faith-filled focus. As an ex-pat, she understands and lives the day-to-day stresses and challenges of life abroad. As a Christian, she seeks answers in God-centered prayer.” Caroline Corda-Razat has over a decade of experience leading women’s faith-based retreats, small groups and leadership meetings. Her brand of humor, au-thenticity and energy brings insight to God’s truth and encourages and equips listeners to develop a deeper relationship with God. Although she earned an MBA from New York University, she counts it all joy to replace her ambition for dealing in the world’s international business with taking part in God’s eternal business. Caroline now lives in Paris with her American/French family of four. She continues to be actively involved in Moms in Prayer International and is a founding member of the ministry in France. As a docent, she has the oppor-tunity to share the gospel regularly with tourists in the very center of Paris, using a real “power” point presentation: the images at Notre Dame Cathedral.

God Spa Be filled, revived, and

renewed as we enjoy a God’s SPA:

S --- Sit P --- Pray A--- Allow

What: Women’s Retreat: a precious gift of time of rest and renewal.

When: August 30th & 31st Friday (17.00 - 20.30), Sat (9.00 - 17:00)

Where: American Lutheran Church – Hanson Hall Cost: NOK 275 to cover retreat materials, meals and refreshments on Friday and Saturday. Don’t let the cost be a barrier – contact the ALC . Who: Women of all ages, journeys in life who desire a faith-filled weekend of discovering renewal of body and soul.

Page 9: April Messenger

9

Farewell from Mattie Mae

The Church Dog

When you read this I will no longer be with you.

I would like to thank you for letting me be your church dog.

The highlight of my week over the years has been attending Sunday School

with all of the children. I have totally loved being adored by the children.

Each and every child has been special to me.

I have had near perfect attendance at ALC Council meetings over the last 12

years. The meetings are not as exciting as one would think. I have napped,

and on occasion snored (sorry).

My favorite place to lay in the church is by the altar.

While my owners did not like for me to lay there, several of our pastors have

stated that is was appropriate for me to lay at the altar of my creator.

The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not be in want. He makes me lie down in

green pastures, Psalm 23:2

I don’t want to lie down in green pastures, I want to run and jump in the

green pastures. I would love to do that, since I have not been able to do that

this past year. Then, maybe I will lie down …..

Mattie Mae

The Church dog

Page 10: April Messenger

10

Su

n

Mo

n

Tu

e

We

d

Th

u

Fri

S

at

1

2

3

Pra

yer

Gro

up

7 P

M

4

5

6

AA

2

:30

PM

7

11

:00

Wo

rsh

ip

Ho

ly C

om

mu

nio

n

12

:00

Fe

llo

wsh

ip

8

12

:00

Sta

ff M

ee

tin

g

tNE

T 5

PM

Al-A

no

n 5

:30

PM

9

10

Pra

yer

Gro

up

7 P

M

AA

7

PM

11

12

13

Du

gn

ad

at

the

pa

rso

na

ge

A

A

2:3

0 P

M

14

1

0:0

0 C

ho

ir

11

:00

Wo

rsh

ip

12

:00

Fe

llo

wsh

ip

15

1

2:0

0 S

taff

Me

eti

ng

tNE

T 5

PM

Al-A

no

n 5

:30

PM

16

17

Pra

yer

Gro

up

7 P

M

AA

7

PM

18

19

20

Me

n’s

Bre

kfa

st

AA

2

:30

PM

21

1

0:0

0 C

ho

ir

11

:00

Wo

rsh

ip

Ho

ly C

om

mu

nio

n

12

:00

Fe

llo

wsh

ip

22

1

2:0

0 S

taff

Me

eti

ng

tNE

T 5

PM

Al-A

no

n 5

:30

PM

23

24

Pra

yer

Gro

up

7 P

M

AA

7

PM

25

AL

C C

ou

ncil

Me

eti

ng

7

PM

26

27

AL

C W

ork

Da

y

10

AM

AA

2

:30

PM

28

1

0:0

0 C

ho

ir

11

:00

Wo

rsh

ip

12

:00

Fe

llo

wsh

ip

29

tN

ET 5

PM

Al-A

no

n 5

:30

PM

30

1

Ma

y 1

Ho

lid

ay

Off

ice

Clo

se

d

2

3

4

Sp

rin

g B

rin

g &

Bu

y S

ale

AA

2

:30

PM

Ap

ril

Page 11: April Messenger

11

Re

cord

of

Offe

rings

20

09

-20

13

Mo

nth

ly Bu

dget 2

01

3 –

12

5 0

00

kr

February

’so

fferin

gs N

OK

63

44

4

10%

Offe

rings to

date

Offe

rings go

al 2

013

0

50 00

0

100 0

00

150 0

00

200 0

00

250 0

00

JanFe

bM

arA

pr

Mai

Jun

Jul

Au

gSep

Okt

No

vD

es

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

Page 12: April Messenger

12

Living Abroad, Hopes and Fears,

United in Christ

Easter and Living AbroadEaster and Living Abroad

With the Easter season we, as Christians, celebrate the

resurrection of our Lord, indeed! We rejoice in the

faith, knowing we have eternal life – praise the Lord!

When loss occurs during this festival season, it can be

especially painful. It can feel isolating to be grieving

with the Alleluias of the Easter season, the voices of

spring in the air.

What does the Easter story have to say to broken hearts? Loved ones past on, lost

jobs, broken relationships with parents, children, friends?

John begins the Easter story with the words, “while it was still dark..” While it was

still dark, Mary went to the tomb. Perhaps she hadn’t slept all night. Tossing and

turning, her heart was completely broken. A dream gone. Jesus had been killed. With

him, hope died. Life will never be the same.

For us, too, darkness exists – even at Easter. A phone call from back home – a loved

one has died. A job interview that results in a “thank you for applying, but we’ve

filled the position.” Lab results that confirm a diagnosis of an incurable disease. The

slamming of a door with the words from a spouse “I have never loved you” or a child

“I hate you” cut to the core. Or, perhaps, the eerie silence from a loved one we grasp

onto a thread of hope for a phone call or email.

The darkness is overwhelming. John reports simply that Mary wept. It must have

been a complete and utter sobbing. That feeling when physically, emotionally, there is

just nothing left. The exhaustion when pain, sorrow, the grief must have been unbear-

able. To simply weep.

Mary somehow manages to respond when she was asked why she was crying, “They

have taken my Lord away and I don’t know where they have put him.” What a grace-

ful, deep-felt, earnest response in the midst of such pain. How easy it would have

been to reply in frustration or anger – “did you take him?”, “none of your business,”

“just leave me alone,” “isn’t it obvious?”. Or a lashing out at God “Why now?” “Why

didn’t you stop this?” Or, perhaps, to stand up, storming away, “I just need to get

away.” “Don’t you see my life has been interrupted?”

But she didn’t run. Just an earnest question. A mere two verses later Jesus is in her

presence – from the deepest of grief to the heights of the resurrection! From darkness

to light! From grief and hopelessness to hope! we are assured that shattered dreams,

broken relationships, will not have the final word in our lives

Indeed, we often overlook that Easter hope was born out of hopelessness. From the

darkness came light – from that very first Easter through today, and each and every

time we open our lives to the transforming power of God’s Spirit.

We are assured that there is no situation that

our faith cannot embrace.

Page 13: April Messenger

13

…God can help us to heal, to renew to find “more

hope that we can handle, theologian Craig Barnes

writes. He continues that, with Easter, “we are as-

sured there is no situation that our faith cannot em-

brace. If God can reach into a sealed and guarded

tomb and give life back to a crucified son, certainly

we can know that God can help us with any grief,

big or small or in-between, we are experiencing. “

In fact, Barnes continues, that “No one is ready to encounter Easter until s/he has

spent time in dark places where hope cannot be seen.”

Yet, after a darkness, there are no illusions that things will be the same. Things did

not return to “normal” for Mary and the disciples. Jesus did not return to earth to

heal the sick, preach to the masses, turn water into wine.

Nor for us, Easter is not a promise that, as Christians, we get to return to the status

quo. That our live are not interrupted. Often what we long for, what we miss and

beg God to give back, is gone. Easter is not about restoring normalcy, but discover-

ing a new way of living. It is about believing God, “Behold, I make all things new!”

According to Old Testament scholar, Dr. Walter Brueggemann, the most distin-

guishing characteristic of God is His ability to make something new. “The entire

Bible bears witness to this gift of newness from our God and His son, Jesus,”

Brueggemann declares. “The forming of the worlds, the deliverance of the exiles,

the summons to disciples, the silencing of the storm, the call to Lazarus, all attest to

God’s ability to give newness to a world filled with endings.” To experience the

newness of the resurrection means interruption.

What does this mean for us at ALC, serving a diverse community in Christ?

As Christians, we need to be intentional about being with our brothers and sisters in

the darkness. To be there for each other during times of grief. To comfort one an-

other and look forward to the hope of the resurrection (1 Thessalonians 4:18). It

can be hard to know what to say at any time, perhaps harder during seasons of cele-

bration and joy, like resurrection of Easter. Our diverse backgrounds can make it

more difficult to what is appropriate, our diverse languages to find the right words.

Nonetheless, God demands this of us. Words and cultures may have language and

custom barriers, but not so holding a hand, giving a hug, wiping a tear, sharing si-

lence. To be the angel next to Mary.

Lord,

Give us the vision to see the newness amidst the darkness, the courage to trust your

“interruptions,” the faith to let go of how things used to be for your infinite possibili-

ties that lie ahead. Pour upon us the earnestness of Mary, that our question in our

darkest hour offers to us hope beyond what we can handle. Amen.

(continued on page 14)

“Never forget the

discovery of the risen

Christ occurred in

darkness and still

does.”

Page 14: April Messenger

14

Book of the Month: Book of the Month: When God Interrupts: Finding New Life Through Un-

wanted Change (InterVarsity Press)

Our lives are constantly changing. It's hard to keep trusting in God.

And it's especially difficult when the changes we're faced with are un-

wanted: the death of a loved one, a child leaving home, an illness, a

frustrated dream. Here is the book for all who have known disappoint-

ment, bereavement or the shattering of faith, a book all the more valua-

ble because it promises hope without denying despair

________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Consider how you might contribute to this ALC ongoing dialogue on living

abroad. Do you have experience with a Christ-centered website, book, resource?

A question, a challenge, a success. Please share with our ALC community.

Submissions, sharings, joys, concerns: Sharon Hermanson

[email protected] Pastor Tim [email protected]

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Link of the MonthLink of the Month ---- yktis.comyktis.com Looking for an alternative to some of the noise from cable TV? Or seemingly endless

ski races on TV (no offense to you ski buffs out there). Some background music while

you’re working at the computer? KTIS is a Christian radio station (Minneapolis, MN

USA) and plays Christian soft rock. Check it out!

Hymn of the Month: Hymn of the Month: Thine is the Glory Words: Edmond L. Budry, 1994

He will swallow up death in victory. Isaiah 25:8

Thine is the glory risen, conqu’ring Son;

Endless is the victory, Thou o’er death hast won;

Angels in bright raiment rolled the stone away,

Kept the folded grave clothes where Thy body lay.

Thine is the glory, risen conqu’ring Son,

Endless is the vict’ry, Thou o’er death hast won.

Lo! Jesus meets us, risen from the tomb;

Lovingly He greets us, scatters fear and gloom;

Let the church with gladness, hymns of triumph sing;

For her Lord now liveth, death hath lost its sting.

Thine is the glory, risen conqu’ring Son,

Endless is the vict’ry, Thou o’er death hast won

No more we doubt Thee, glorious Prince of life;…...

Page 15: April Messenger

15

God Bless You on Your Special Day! April Birthdays

1- Rebecca Austad

3 - Kaja Lande

3 - Lori Brooke Bakken

4 – Mikael Sebastian Olsen

4 - Christine Wanjiru Crantz

6 - Anne Katrin Hennying

6 - Christopher Knudsen,

6 - Catherine Solheim

7 - Trygve Knudsen

7 - Emil Refhaug,

7 - Elisabeth With

9 - Kristofher Løvold

13 - Joselito Alcoriza

14 - Ulf Crantz

15 – Angela K. Nyirenda

16 - Kjell Holstad

17 - Camilla Johansen

18 - Signe Granerud

18 - Denise Pande-Rolfsen,

18 - Torveig Strai

19 - Gillian Holby

19 - Lucas Braathen

20 - Christian Ringnes

20 - Kari Tøtdal

21 – Gillian Grace Garde

23 - Isabelle Bakay Holby

23 - Sarah Smefjell

24 - Twinkle Dawes

25 - Anita Seth,

25 - Su-Jung Mundal

26 - Ronald A.N. Wabende

27 - Børge Tangeraas

27 - Nina Zoe Jørstad

27 - Wyonne Long

28 - Elizabeth Kajal,

28 - Inger Foss

29 - Torleif Limseth

30 - Kari Borchgrevink

Volunteers Needed!

Most of us love the waffles that

are served

after the Sunday Worship Service

But….

We need volunteers to make them!

Please consider signing up for making

waffles one Sunday this Spring!

Page 16: April Messenger

16

Attended: Bob Sebro, President, Lars Lunde, Treasurer, Mel Engebretsen, Secretary,

Kristen & Mark Lanham, Volunteers, Sarvo Martin, Membership, Amalia Diana

Prodan, Education, Olav Mundal, Worship, John Chamberlain, Properties, Arthur

Melhoos, Stewardship, Bjorn Radtke, Outreach; Timothy Stewart, Pastor

Treasurers Report for January 2013

January’s income is significantly below budget. This is very normal for this time of

year. Stewardship will try to attempt to do something. Members need to be reminded

of income.

Benevolences are not paid yet – NOK 90,000.

We haven’t paid for the lift yet. It is not completely installed yet. They have sent a

reminder. We should not make the final payment until it is completely installed

The income found under Education was from the sale of books.

Pastors report

Communication task force has started meeting. They intend to have the new website up

and running before summer. It will be presented to the council before it goes live.

Committee plans, discussion and feedback Membership

The following people will be received as new members on March 10th:

Young Enn Choi

Emmanuel Nyirenda

Favour Nyirenda

Josephine Changole

Patricia Mutesi

Ellen Mugizi, Evan Mugizi

Nicola Rao

Faggie Molala,

Angel Molala

Adopting the Communication Committee Report

The council has received the report and discussed it. A short article should be included

in the next Messenger informing the congregation that the Communication Committee

has started.

*Bjorn moved to note in the minutes that we have received the Communication Report

and that we will let the congregation know about it and include a word of thanks to the

members of the committee. Olaf seconded and the motion was unanimously approved.

Review of Church Calendar

Good Friday service - Janet is in charge

Picnic in Frogner Park – 2nd of June

July 4th celebration will be held on June 30th at Frogner Park

New Business

Vacant Fellowship Chair and Sunday School Superintendent Amalia and Pastor haven’t been able to find a meeting date with Karin Mandeville to

discuss the Sunday School and the role of the Sunday School Superintendent. They in-

tend to do this as soon as possible

Summary of Council Approved Minutes February 2013

Page 17: April Messenger

17

Summary of Council Approved Minutes (Continued)

HES Report – John

April 25th there will be an HMS review of the church. We will walk through the church then.

Ongoing issue with Doorbells.

The doorbells seem to disappear and in some instances are being torn off the wall.

Perhaps we should have fake security cameras or hardwire bells

Norwegian state personal tax deduction 2012

The application for members to receive tax deduction is not accepted for 2012

We should try to find out what is required so that we can try to remedy the situation. We

must inform our members - Newsletter article, Bulletin notice and announcement. We should

be sending out letters to those who have given money

Norwegian state tilskudd 2013

Must be sent in by March 30th. Inform the congregation when this has been done through the

Messenger and/or include in the minutes of the meeting which are included in the Messegner

Extension of Pastor Stewart’s contract through august 2015.

An addendum to the contract (letter of agreement) between Pastor Stewart and the ALC has

been signed. The new contract will last until around August 17, 2015. This was based on the

concurrence of the ELCA, ALC Board of Trustees and Pastor Stewart.

TNET

Articles have been written about TNET and their outreach at asylum centers in most of the

major Norwegian daily newspapers. In Aftenposten they mentioned that meetings of TNET

are held at the ALC. In Aftenposten they also reported that statements were made that were

negative toward Islam. Council members were very concerned. We do not want to cause

animosity and we do not want the ALC connected to a group that has made any comments

against Islam. At the time of the Council Meeting, no one had called the church in regards to

the article. The first step to be taken is that Karin and Bob will speak to the leader of TNet

and clarify what he said exactly . Newspapers can take words/phrases out of context. Before

any action is taken we must find out what actually happened.

'Casting A Vision'

Bjørn discussed the important concept of “casting a vision”.

A vision applies purpose – which groups for example we might let rent at the ALC. A vision

would help us -

How should our resources be used

Fosters risk taking

Vision enhances leadership

Vision promotes excellence

Vision Statement – what this church aspires to be

We are in a unique place in the vineyard

Process by which the congregation can think for itself

Bjorn wanted this included as part of the communication process. Bob asked Bjorn to send

the council the steps for setting a vision. Bjorn agreed to distribute a rough outline. Super

Saturday work with a Vision - Bjorn will introduce\this in a temple talk.

Page 18: April Messenger

18

Monday Morning Bible Study The Monday morning Bible Study has been tackling the book of Revelation. Many

of us came wondering how this challenging last chapter of Scripture might speak

to us. As it turns out, there is so much for our lives today!

In John’s opening chapters, he writes to the seven churches in Asia -- Ephesus,

Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea.

The letters are written in a similar 4-part form

(address, descriptive phrase about the Lord,

commendation/condemnation, admonition, and

conclusion/promise). Interestingly, it seems the

struggles of the early church are not unlike con-

gregational struggles today – persecution, as-

similation, and complacency.

John writes to Smyrna and Philadelphia to be

faithful, to hold fast in the midst of persecution.

Some of us come from countries and cultures in which Christian persecution is

real and, literally, life-threatening. Christian brothers and sisters in Pakistan, Iraq,

and Nairobi, and elsewhere across the globe.

For Ephesus, Pergamum and Thyatira the problem John addresses is assimilation

– accommodating to cultural pressures to the point of losing their identity as

Christians. Religious infidelity as it were. What a timeless question for the church

on earth --how to stay relevant, adapt to local traditions, regional cultures, new

technologies and remain true to the Word.

For the Christian communities at Sardis and Laodicea, John warns of complacen-

cy. Things rolling along so good, no persecutors, poverty – yet, something poten-

tially more dangerous. A coziness that leads to a lack of vigilance, a smugness that

leads to a self-deception that all is okay, there is no work to do. Some of us have

experienced this somewhere in our journey – a Christianity unthreatened, and thus,

a temptation to lose the passion that comes with adversaries.

With these letters, we unveil questions and challenges for all of us, with all of our

diverse backgrounds, home congregation experiences, and life journeys in Christ

and community.

A common link between the 7 letters is the word, “Listen.” No matter the current

situation, struggle, or scenario, we are commanded to listen to God. As true today

as when these words were first recorded. Listening is the way to the promise.

And, yes, all seven churches were blessed with a promise – yes, there are prob-

lems, yes, there are challenges, but God’s paradise, the crown of life, God’s throne

await us through our perseverance.

Page 19: April Messenger

19

To the right is the famous Christian artist Albrecht

Dürer’s, St. John’s Vision of Christ and the Seven

Candlesticks . Interested in more information on Dürer and his etchings? Check out: http://www.clarkart.edu/exhibitions/durer/content/video-highlights.cfm?vid=10

Sharon Hermanson

JOIN US! Monday mornings are interesting discussions with spirit-filled conversation as we study God’s Word. We meet 2 Mondays per month at 10:30 at ALC. If you’re hesitant because of schedule shifts, travel plans, new to the church, no worries – this is life in Oslo. Come when you can, where you are, how you are. If you have questions con-tact the ALC office ([email protected]) or Pastor Tim

The choir meets in the loft every

Sunday at 10 am.

All are welcome to join!

Do You like to Sing?

Page 20: April Messenger

20

May 4 ALC SpringSpringSpring Bring and

Buy Sale

Our store rooms are empty and

we now need your help to fill

them up in preparation for our

Spring Bring and Buy Sale.

You are welcome to bring things

to church for the sale on Sundays and we will

store them away in the bomb shelter until the sale.

Books

Clothes

Last years bicycles

Toys, Computer games

DVDs

CDs

Glassware

Ornaments

We can also pick up items.

Please contact Mark or Kirsten Lanham