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THE MESSENGERJANUARY 2019

The monthly newsletter of First Lutheran Church, a congregation of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America

Message from the Pastor.................2

Office Updates…..............................4

Worship Themes........…...................6

Adult Education & Fellowship...........7

Outreach Opportunities........................8-9

Women of the ELCA.......................10

Making a Difference........................11

Music Opportunities........................12

Preschool........................................14

Announcements.……...…...............17

I N S I D E T H I S I S S U E

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View our Event Calendar!www.firstlutherankearney.org

Sign up for FLC E-mail updates!Send request to:

mmcguire@firstlutherankearney.org

Offerings Year to Date

2017 2018 %Change

Nov $54,623 $54,919 0.1%

Year to $313,089 $318,399 1.0%Date

Average per week giving $10,405

Goal per week $13,655

Per Week vs. Goal -$3,250

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A M e s s a g e f r o m t h e Pa s t o r

Greetings as we begin 2019!

One of my favorite folk singers is Chuck Suchy. He is part poet and part musician; in fact he has been named the Official Troubadour of North Dakota. He sings about the land, farming, nature and all things rural. Chuck is a songwriter, musician and farmer in Mandan, North Dakota. I found him and began listening to him on my internship in North Dakota. One of my favorite songs is Simply Fly:

Simply FlyI was out one August morn

Wind was blew green was cornI was to my work bent low

Fences mendin’ more to go

Across my field of vision blueA flash of feather struck my view

A redtail on a thermal riseBeckoned me with whistlin’ cries

How could one as earth-bound as IKnow the joy of endless sky

With steady stare in passin’ glideThe hawk to me I swear replied

Simplify simplifyYou know no more less than I

Simplify simplifySpread your wings

Simply fly

We know this life so many waysThrough we’ve only so many days

When I find my world awryI hear that feathered friend’s reply

Simplify simplifyYou know no more less than I

Simplify simplifySpread your wings

Simply fly

From the album “A Different Line of Time” by Chuck Suchy

Especially around this time of year, I often think about the art of simplifying – life, possessions, schedules. A few years ago, there was a prayer that I came across, “Jesus Christ, friend of the poor: open in us the gates of simplicity so that we can welcome you.” During the Christmas season, we welcome Jesus Christ the newborn king. However, Christmas is the part of our calendar with the least amount of simplicity. It is in this chaos that we are reminded by the simplicity of the manger to simplify areas of our lives – work, home, relationships, extra activities, prayer – so that we can welcome and remain focused on the greatest gift God has given us, Jesus Christ our Lord.

May the gates of simplicity be opened in each of you this new year,

Pastor Michelle

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A M e s s a g e f r o m t h e Pa s t o r

Sunday Morning Adult Study Beginning in JanuaryDave Zimmer will be teaching an Adult Study in-between Sunday morning services on January 27, February 3, February 17, and February 24. The focus of the study will be “Enough: Discovering Joy through Simplicity and Generosity” based on materials by Adam Hamilton. The study will be held in Fel-lowship Hall.

Nebraska Synod Middle School GatheringThe 2019 Nebraska Synod Middle School Gathering will be held at First Lutheran Church in Kearney (that’s our congregation!) on January 19-20. Middle Schoolers and adult leaders from across the state will be coming to Kearney to experience the theme, “Rooted,” through experiential learning, fellowship, worship, a concert, service projects, and play. What happens through our Synod’s Middle School Gathering?

• “Relationships are built, and it’s important to have good, healthy relationships during the middle school years.”• “It connects young people with young people across the state.”• “The young people get to meet others who love God.”• “It’s like a mini ELCA Youth Gathering. Some of our middle school youth don’t know how big the church is.”• “It’s good for smaller churches without a large middle school ministry.”• “The MSG opens eyes to what is done outside their own congregations. They can have new ex periences and learn new ideas.”

The Gathering runs from 10 a.m. on Saturday through 2 p.m. on Sunday. The Gathering’s participants will be joining us for our 11 a.m. Sunday morning service.

Farewell Reception for the BosshardtsBecause Tom and Carol Bosshardt are moving to Fremont, there will be a Farewell Reception and Thank You Recognition for them on Sunday January 6 at 9:50 a.m. in Centennial Hall. All are invited to come and say thank you for the extensive time, talents, and service that they have provided to enhance our ministry at First Lutheran.

Wednesday Evening Programing to Resume January 9Feeding the Flock, FROG, and Confirmation will resume on Wednesday, January 9 at their normal times.

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O F F I C E U P DAT E S

Church Officeoffice@firstlutherankearney.orgPastor Rick CarlsonPastorrcarlson@firstlutherankearney.org

Pastor Michelle CarlsonPastormcarlson@firstlutherankearney.org

Mike McGuireExecutive Directormmcguire@firstlutherankearney.orgKandy BaconAdministrative Assistantkbacon@firstlutherankearney.org Marti BrockmeierBookkeepermartibrockmeier@firstlutherankearney.org

Natalie RadcliffeWorship Music Coordinatornatalieradcliffe@firstlutherankearney.org

Adam EilersMaintenance Coordinatoraeilers@firstlutherankearney.org

Judy O’DonnellPreschool Directorjudyodonnell@firstlutherankearney.org

FLC STAFF E-MAIL ADDRESSES

VIDEO BROADCASTS AVAILABLE ONLINE

Unable to make it to church? Watch a LIVE web broadcast of our Sunday Morning Worship Services 8:45 am and 11:00 am. A link for the live stream is available at: www.firstlutherankearney.org

SUBMISSIONS FOR NEWSLETTER & PROJECTION ANNOUNCEMENTS

The deadline for weekly announcements is Wednesday at 4:00 pm. The submission deadline for the monthly newsletter “The Messenger” is the 15th of the prior month. Submit to: office@firstlutherankearney.org or call the church office at 308-237-5544.

USE OF OFFERING ENVELOPES

Thank you to all those who regularly make use of the weekly offering envelopes. It may not be possible to keep an accurate recording of your contributions if you do not use your envelopes. If you choose to contribute by check without using the envelopes, please write your offering envelope number on your check. This will enable us to record your contributions accurately. Any loose checks that are received without an envelope number noted may not be reflected on your contribution statement.Contributions to the Ministry Budget and Facilities Budget can be combined in one check. If you are not receiving offering envelopes and would like some, please contact Marti in the church office. Thank you for your help!

NOVEMBER FINANCE REPORT Ministry Budget: Nove. 2018 YTD '18-'19 YTD '17-'18Budget Supporting Revenue $ 48,202 $ 282,325 $ 275,891 Budget Related Expenditures $ (53,209) $ (325,769) $ (350,269)

Total 2017-2018 Ministry Budget: $710,055 Facilities Budget: Nov. 2018 YTD '18-'19 YTD '17-'18Revenue $ 6,717 $ 36,074 $ 37,198Expenditures $ (697) $ (15,510) $ (19,076)

Total 2018-2019 Facilities Budget: $30,000

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CO U N C I L U P DAT E

Greetings from your Church Council,

Here’s an update on the latest happenings and discussions within First Lutheran Church.

At our DECEMBER meeting, we took action on the following:

Approved formation of a Weather Team to develop guidelines and a chain of command for deciding when services and/or activities should be postponed or cancelled due to weather conditions. The process for informing the congregation will be discussed as well.

Approved moving forward with exploring the possibility of calling an associate pastor. This would be a three year call. The new position would be tasked with devoting 50% of their time to Campus Lutheran and 50% to the youth and young adults of First Lutheran Church. Funding would come via a grant from Immanuel Vision Foundation, ($35,000 in year one and $25,000 per year in years two and three), $25,000 per year from Nebraska Lutheran Campus Ministry, and approximately $25,000 per year from First Lutheran Church. More details are presented in an accompanying article in this month’s Messenger. Please ask more questions of your council representatives and express your opinions. Please pray for discernment concerning this congregational decision.

A Safety Task Force has been established to review the safety policies at First Lutheran Church and to make suggestions for improvement.

May the peace that only Christ can bring be with you and your families this season.

First Lutheran Church Council

Gary Anderson, Judy Henning, Rachel Leach, Kyle Means, Keith Powell, Myron Riddle, Kelly Russman, Kim Troudt, & Mark Kottmeyer

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W O R S H I P T H E M E SJANUARY 5-6EPIHANY OF OUR LORDISAIAH 60:1-6; PSALM 72:1-7,10-14; EPHESIANS 3:1-12; MATTHEW 2:1-12. Epiphany means “manifestation.” On this day we celebrate the revelation of Christ to the Gentiles—that is, to all nations. Some Christian traditions celebrate three great epiphanies on this day: the magi’s adoration of the Christ child, Jesus’ baptism in the Jordan River, and his first miracle, in which he changes water into wine. The word and sacraments are for us the great epiphany of God’s grace and mercy. We go forth to witness to the light that shines brightly in our midst.

JANUARY 12-13LECTIONARY 1ISAIAH 43:1-7; PSALM 29; ACTS 8:14-17; LUKE 3:15-17, 21-22.Forerunners and messengers advance the advent of our God. While John the baptizer’s voice in the wilderness may be the principal focus of the day, Malachi’s prophecy could as easily herald the coming Lord Jesus as forerunner of the Lord of hosts. Finally all the baptized are called to participate in the sharing of the gospel. In so doing we prepare the way for the coming of the Lord and assist all flesh in capturing a vision of the “salvation of God.”

Mark Kottmeyer - PresidentKim Troudt - Vice President Kyle Means - Treasurer Rachel Leach - SecretaryGary AndersonKeith PowellMyron RiddleJudy HenningKelly Russman

Contact information for our Congregational Council

Representatives are available in the lobby or the church office.

CONGREGATIONAL COUNCIL

HAVE QUESTIONS?

JANUARY 19-20LECTIONARY 2ISAIAH 62:1-5; PSALM 36:5-10; 1 CORINTHIANS 12:1-11; JOHN 2:1-11.

The Sundays after Epiphany continue to celebrate the revelation of the glory of God to us as it was made known to the magi and to those on Jordan’s banks at the baptism of Jesus—today using wedding imagery. Our God rejoices over God’s people “as the bridegroom rejoices over the bride.” By the power of the Spirit there are gifts galore for everyone. In Christ Jesus the best wine is saved for last. Taste and see.

JANUARY 26-27LECTIONARY 3NEHEMIAH 8:1-3, 5-6, 8-10; PSALM 19; 1 CORINTHIANS 12:12-31a; LUKE 4:14-21.The glory of the Lord is revealed in the reading of scripture. People stand at attention. People weep. People prostrate themselves in prayer. The unity of the church is another reflection of the glory of God. Most gloriously, the promises of God are fulfilled in the person of Jesus Christ. Gather round. Listen up. Glimpse the glory of God.

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MARTIN & KATIE’S COFFEE HOURPlease join our seasoned and sensational members and friends in the Café Thursday mornings from 10:00-11:00 am for delectable delights and candid conversation. All are welcome for this great time of fellowship.

THURSDAY

WEDNESDAYLearn to Knit or Crochet

Prayer Shawl Ministry meets every Wednesday in the coffee area from 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm during the school year. Please join us for Knitting, Crocheting, Conversation and Prayer. If you have any questions, or if you know of someone who might be able to use a Prayer Shawl as a tangible reminder of God’s love and grace during hard times and good times, please call or text Theress Bricker 308-233-2469.

A D U LT E D U C AT I O N & F E L LO W S H I PAdult Education and Fellowship opportunities are in abundance at First Lutheran Church. If you are curious about any of the programming we offer and want more information, please contact the church office at: 308-237-5544 or just show up!

SUNDAYSUNDAY MORNINGCOFFEE FELLOWSHIPSundays 9:45-11:00 am in the Café

MONDAYQuilt Tying

Quilt Tying takes place the first Monday of every month at 8:30 am in the Quilt Room. All are welcome.

SUNRISE PRAYER & STUDY GROUPThis group meets at 7:00 am on Tuesday mornings in the Fellowship Hall. This study takes a look at the upcoming gospel text from the lectionary and discussion is centered around how this applies to our lives today.

TUESDAY

Bible StudyOn the 2nd Monday of each month at 7:00 p.m. in Fellowship Hall. There will be a Bible study based on a Smithsonian Program called “The Great World Religions”. This will be a 12-week lecture study. The study includes Christianity, Judaism, Islam, Hinduism, & Bud-dhism. All are invited to participate. If you have any questions, please contact LaVon McLane at 308-293-1883.

Adult Bible StudyYou probably remember the story of Daniel and the lions’ den. But, is there more to his story? And more importantly, what does Daniel’s life say to you or me? If this piques your interest, you might like to join us on Wednesday evenings. Our group really gets into the Bible and we have some interesting discussions. I’m personally inviting you to join us on Wednesday, January 2, when we will begin talking about Daniel. We meet at 6:00pm in the conference room at church. We hope to see you there.

Reading with Pastor MichelleJoin Pastor Michelle in the North Hall for conversation around the book Everything Happens for a Reason and Other Lies I’ve Loved by Kate Bowler. Wednesday nights from 7:02pm to 8:00pm. No prior reading required for our gathering! Hope to see you there…

WHY SHOULD YOU CARE ABOUT ELDER ABUSE? This is the topic of an adult forum presented by Lisa McGuire, the South Central Nebraska local long- term care Ombudsman. It will be presented Sunday, January 13, at 9:50 a.m. in the Fellowship Hall. Abuse occurs more often than we may realize. It truly can happen to anyone. This discussion will include statistics, types of abuse, warning signs, and what you can do.

The Nebraska Long Term Care Ombudsman Program serves residents in long term care facilities statewide. This includes nursing facilities and assisted living facilities. This program was es-tablished under the “Older Americans Act of 1972”. Nebraska has eight Long- Term Care Ombudsmen. The Ombudsmen are located in the Agencies on Aging offices across Nebraska, including the one here in Kearney. The Ombudsman office handles numerous inqui-ries varying from food quality, resident rights, roommate conflicts, staffing, quality care, eviction, and abuse.

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MEDIA BOOTH VOLUNTEERS Volunteers are needed for sound, projection and video. Currently looking for volunteers for the 2nd Saturdays of each month for the 6:00 pm worship service. Training is available. Contact the church office at 308-237-5544.

S E R V I C E O P P O R T U N I T I E S

Learn to Knit in the New YearTry a Prayer Square if you don’t have time for a Prayer Shawl. Join the Prayer Shawl Ministry on the CAFÉ couches between 6:30 and 8 p.m. on Wednesday evenings. Call Theress (308-233-2469) if you have questions.

DON’T WORRY! JOIN A PRAYER CHAIN

Help pray for brothers and sisters in Christ, or share request you with to be prayed for. Paul reminds us “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God” (Phil 4:6).

Telephone prayer chain members are led by Jeanette Andersen (308-237-3634), Marlene Kotrc (308-234-3293) and Mary Lu Mintling (308-237-5716).

If you enjoy email prayer requests, pass your request along to the church office (office@firstlutherankearney.org) or Theress Bricker (tmbricker4@gmail.com ). Requests will be passed to you, and all you need to do is pray for the person or event.

HELP TIE A QUILTStop by the Quilt Room on the First Monday of each month between 8:30 and 11 a.m. if you can tie a knot or two or ten. If you have questions, call Betty Young (308- 440-7313).

SUBSTITUTE TEACHERS NEEDEDWe are in need of substitute teachers for Sunday School and Confirmation. If interested, please call the office.

JANUARY 12 PRAYER RETREAT -- “You Are Mine”

I have called you by name, and you are mine. (Isaiah 43: 1b)

You are invited to spend this day experiencing the story of your relationship with God. We will focus this day together with the scripture from Isaiah, which expresses how God feels about us. The prayer activities will be planned to help you become aware of God’s presence and activity in your daily life and provide a variety of ways for you to engage and respond to God and each other. The following list includes some of the prayer exercises we may use during the day: Praying the Scriptures, Breath Prayer, Prayer Walking, Praying in Color, Praying with Beads, and Wall of Prayer. There will also be an opportunity for you to develop an intention for your prayer life as you begin a new year.

Times – 10:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.

12:00 p.m.- 3:00 p.m.

Facilitator – Connie Stover

Please call the church office (237-5544) to register by January 9 so we can plan supplies for lunch and snacks. You may participate in the morning session, the afternoon session, or both sessions.

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W I T H I N O U R C H U R C H FA M I LY

Prayers of sympathy and comfort for:

Mike and Judy Workman on the death of Mike’s brother, Robert.

Mike Ripp and family on the death of Mike’s wife, Karma.

BaptismsThe baptism of Brandt Jesse Weaver, son

of Jesse and Kindsey Weaver.

Thank you!Thank you to all volunteers who helped with the Church this past year. Advent Services, Christmas parties, Children’s Christmas Program, Ushers, Communion Assistants, Altar Guilds, Counters, Depositors, Sound Booth Coordinators, Volunteers who purchased Poinsettias, Greeters, Circles, Teams, Judy Workman and the Women’s ELCA for all of their help with Feeding the Flock and First Lutheran Church Council we appreciate all that you do.

January 2019

This month the council is pleased to recognize, Heidi Andersen as Volunteer of the Month.

Heidi Andersen has been a member of First Lutheran Church for over 28 years. Heidi is one of those behind the scenes workers you may not be aware of that has held the Lector Coordinator since 1999. Scheduling the lectors on a monthly basis has been no small task. This includes contacting a church member to see if they are available. Heidi then contacts the church to relay the information that you see in the weekly newsletter on the back page. If a lector who has been scheduled is unable to make it to church, Heidi even finds the replacement sub. The next time you see Heidi, please offer her a heartfelt ‘Thank you’ for the wonderful way that she serves Christ within our church.

Sincerely,

FLC Council

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W O M E N o f t h e E LC A

Ladies who are interested in joining a monthly Bible study are invited to attend a women’s circle. Circles can be joined at any time during the year.

President:Judy Workman (308)-237-2781Secretary:Deanna Schwartz (308)-530-7166Treasurer:Jo Smallcomb (308)-234-3053

ABIGAIL CIRCLE (SEPT.–MAY)9:00 am—3rd MondayCo-Chairs: Joan Swanson (308-234-2835) and Evy Kuecher (308-237-5651)

DEBORAH CIRCLE7:00 pm –3rd MondayCo-Chairs:Alicia Tracy (308-234-4793) and Jo Smallcomb (308-234-3053)

GLORIA CIRCLE12:00pm—3rd ThursdayChair: Karen Foster (308-234-2157)

NAOMI CIRCLE7:30pm—4th Thursday (3rd Thurs. in Nov.)Chair: Mildred Bliefernich (308-236-9266)

REBEKAH CIRCLE9:00am—3rd Tuesday

SARAH CIRCLEGibbon group—Time VariesChair: Bev Vacha (308-468-6239)

The Women of the E.L.C.A. enjoyed the Advent Brunch held December 8th at First Lutheran Church Fellowship Hall. The theme “Notes of Christmas” was carried out in the Prayers and Devotional message given by Pastor Michelle and the songs enjoyed from the “Cabriolet” singers and the women from church in attendance. A special thank you to Mildred Bliefernich, Deb Schauer, Mary Henning, Betty Kempf, Bev Vacha, Karen Foster, Lu Kruger and all those who stepped in to take over the program and did such a great job on the brunch and decorating. There were approximently 40 in attendance.

Mission Action will be starting the new year with gathering items for mission work and you can view the W.E.L.C.A. bulletin board to see places the items were shipped to make a difference to those in need. We welcome members of First Lutheran Church to join and you do not have to belong to a Circle to join in the activities of W.E.L.C.A. Contact numbers for Officers and Circle Chairs are listed on right side of page.

If you have time during the day and can help with food preparation for Feeding the Flock we still have some open spaces in the start of the new year. Please consider volunteering your time and talent Call Judy Workman (308) 237-2781 or leave a message at church.

Wishing all of you a new year with the blessings of good health and happiness. Looking forward to a fresh start and making 2019 a great year for fellowship and renewing commitments for service to God.

MARK YOUR CALENDARS!

January 7: W.E.L.C.A. Board Meeting 7:00 p.m. Fellowship Hall.

January 12: Prayer Retreat

January 19: W.E.L.C.A. Winter Retreat, St. Paul Lutheran, 1515 South Harrison, Grand Island 9:00 - 3:00.

March 30: Spring Fashion & Faith - $18 Fee - High Plains, St. Johns/Eustis.

Wednesday evenings Feeding the Flock at 5:45 in Centennial Hall will begin again on January 9, 2019.

Upcoming Events

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T h e L o n g A r m o f t h e C r o s s

I love to celebrate Christmas, so I’ve put up two Christmas trees this week in Kearney and planned for Christmas decorations in Scottsbluff and Fremont. As we move, I’ll just have to take down the decora-tions and find spots to put them away. But as you read this, it will still be part of the 12 days of Christmas. (Yes, that is part of the church’s official Christmas season until Epiphany on January 5, not just a secular song.)

So how do Christmas and the long arm of the cross fit together?

When I lit my prayer candle last week one arm of the cross beside it stretched far across the wall behind it. I went to straighten things out and then I thought about the cross stretching much farther than across my wall. Jesus told his disciples “You can be sure that I will be with you always” (ICB). His cross has stretched across two millenia and around the world. It will continue to stretch across the state of Ne-braska, from the Bosshardt house in Fremont and the Bosshardt apartment in Scottsbluff back to First Lutheran and other sites in the Nebraska Synod.

Unlike our Lord, we will not always be here, but our memories will often remain. Tom and I will miss our friends here in Kearney, but God is calling us to new ventures. You may miss us, but God also calls you all to new ventures as well. Some of you may be called to visit friends that I can no longer visit. Some of you may be called to join the Prayer Retreat coming up Jan. 12. Some of you may join a new Bible study or help with Sunday School or Confirmation or F.R.O.G.

God may call you to be the long arm of the cross at school or on the job. Those of you who can’s get to church often might be called to join a telephone or email prayer chain. Or just pray for the pastors and leaders of First Lutheran, the Nebraska Synod, and the ELCA. You can always pray for other pastors and leaders—and then other church members and anyone who needs a prayer.

Pray that each Christian will share his or her faith with one other person each day. Wow! Can you imag-ine what would happen if each of us shared our faith with someone we met each day? Throughout the rest of the Christmas season and throughout 2019, I pray that you will share the long arm of the cross each day with someone. I especially pray that you will check on your friends here at First Lutheran and throughout the community and let the church office and Pastor Rick and Pastor Michelle know if some-one is ill or in need of a visit. Better yet, offer to help them visit our shut-ins. You might even become a Stephen’s Minister (watch for information about this program).

May the long arm of the cross bless you throughout 2019.

In the Joy of Jesus,Carol BosshardtVisitation Lay Minister

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M U S I C O P P O R T U N I T I E S

CHANCEL BELLSTuesdays 5:30-6:30 PM

SanctuaryDirector: Natalie Radcliffe

PRAISER BELLSYouth in Grades 3–8

Wednesdays 5:15-5:45 PM Sanctuary

Director: Angela Wright

WORSHIP TEAMSThese groups sing for the Contemporary Worship

Service. Rehearsals are on Wednesdays @

5:30 PM in the Choir Room

R E S O U R C E S

http://www.firstlutherankearney.org308-237-5544

http://www.elca.org800-638-3522

http://www.nebraskasynod.org402-896-5311

http://www.nlom.org402-944-2544

http://www.lwr.org800-597-5972

CHANCEL CHOIRWednesdays 7:00-8:15 PM

Sanctuary Director: C.J. Sabah

CHILDREN’S CHOIRChildren Pre-K through

Grade 5. Meets during FROG & Sunday School

Director: Amanda Lewis

HEAVENLY TREBLE MAKERSGrades 6-12Wednesday

6:15-6:45 ChapelDirector: Angela Wright

http://www.nelcm.com/(308) 234-1828

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S E N I O R H I G H Y O U T H

SUNDAY MORNINGSTOGETHER

9:50-10:30 AM LOWER LEVEL YOUTH ROOMJoin Dave Behle,t Keith Powell & Friends

Come for the fellowship, learning and faith sharing. Come for the friends and Food!

Chill, talk and grow your faith.

WEDNESDAY NIGHTS TOGETHER

7:00-8:15 PM FLY DOWNSTAIRS IN THE YOUTH ROOM

Come join us to strengthen your faith andbuild your connections to Christ, the church,and one another.

We give thanks to Keith Powell for his connections with the youth. If you want toget in contact with Keith here’s his cell #(402) - 270 - 4914kcp12001@hotmail.com

Thank You

Thank you to all who supported us by donating and purchased items from the silent auction and who took part in the Holiday Brunch.

Your support is greatly appreciated.

From,

First Lutheran Youth

Journey to Chicago Registration Due $100 Deposit plus attached registration form is due

January 16, 2019.

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F L C P R E S C H O O L N E W S

Happy New Year First Lutheran Congregation! Right away, the week after Thanksgiving we got the room decorated for Christmas! The kids helped decorate the tree and make ornaments too! We talked and talked about the true meaning of Christmas. They can tell you who Jesus’s mother and father is. They can also tell you where they went and who came to visit baby Jesus. These students are very smart! The Christmas program was excellent! I was impressed with how well they sang all the songs we taught them. We started working on the songs the first week of November and impressed all the families! Santa came on Thursday and the families loved it! Our Christmas parties were a blast and very busy! The students listened to “The Polar Express” being read to them. Later, they had hot cocoa and made cute picture frames with popsicle sticks and buttons. Mrs. Amanda took pictures of the kids with a Santa hat on in front of our tree. We both thought they turned out sharp. That craft was their parent’s gift, which they helped wrap! The kids also made a couple Baby Jesus decorations. One was on our tables during the program and the other can be hung somewhere in the house! We hope they have fun talking about that first Christmas night! At the end of our party, we had a book exchange and they loved getting their very own new book! We hope this new year brings you many joys! This children bring us joy everyday! We are so blessed! God’s blessings to you and your loved ones.Mrs. Lora & Mrs. Amanda

Friday January 18th Members of the congregation are invited to register.Friday January 25th Registration opened to the publicONLY the East circle drive church door will be opened at 8:00 a.m. and numbers will be handed out in the order you arrive. Registration begins at 8:15 a.m. Reminder: $40.00 registration fee due at time of registration. If you have any questions please let me know.

3/4 YR. OLD/PRE-K CLASSROOM NEWS

Happy New Year from Pre-K! We hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas and may 2019 bring you all the best! Our past month was full of many things as we prepared for Christmas. We started out the month learning about Advent. This year again we collected toys for the Goodfellows. I delivered 3 large boxes for them to wrap and distribute. Thank you so much for all your generosity! There will be many happy children this Christmas. This year we participated in the Trails and Rails Christmas tree walk as we have done in the past. The turnout was amazing. At this time of printing, we do not know if we have won any of the prizes. We also set up decorations at the Yanney Park Festival of Lights this year. It was the first year there and I have already several ideas for next years decorating! The children learned all about the Nativity of Jesus and that Christmas is the celebration of his birth. We performed our annual Christmas program along with the 3yr old classes on Dec. 12th and 13th. At one of the programs we had a surprise visitor too. Santa joined us to celebrate the season! Our Christmas break started on the 21st so we were able to spend that last week in class making our parents Christmas gifts and just having a lot of Christmas fun. We will return to class on Tuesday Jan. 8th. Just a reminder that we will have registration in January for the 2019-2020 school year. There is an announcement in this Messenger with all the details. Mark your calendars for our Fundraiser Breakfast on Jan. 27th too! Happy New Year and may God continue to send down his blessing to you! Mrs. Judy & Ms. Sonya

2019-2020 First LutheranPreschool/Pre-K Registration

It is that time again for registration for the upcoming school year. Please check the following dates and times below.Friday January 11th All current students and siblings are invited to register on this date.

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C H I L D R E N / M I D D L E S C H O O L

YOU’RE INVITED TO ATTEND:

SUNDAY SCHOOLSundays at 9:55am

Please submit one registration form per child and return to the church office.Additional copies are available in the lobby or on our website.

— F.R.O.G. —FULLY RELY ON GOD

Wednesday Night Programmingfor children Pre-K through 5th Grade

6:30pm - 8:00pm

PLEASE NOTE: FROG students will now be dismissed at 8:00 pm instead of 7:45 pm. Please plan to pick up your children in their classrooms at 8.

Children’s Christmas Program

2019 Children’s Choir Singing Dates

Saturday, Feb. 16th @ the 6pm serviceSunday, March 17th @ the 11am serviceSunday, April 14th @ 8:45am Service (Palm Sunday! Kids are practic-ing with Chancel Choir at 8:15 in the sanctuary.)Sunday, May12th @ the 8:45am service (Meet at old chapel at 8:30am to practice and then the children will go sit with family.)Sunday June 9th @ 10:30am service it will be our VBS Sunday - Where we take over the service!Sunday, June 16th @ 10:30am Service - (We won’t meet ahead of the service, because we are going to sing 2 favorites from VBS!)

Thank you!A great big THANK YOU to all the children and their parents for all of their help with Children’s Christmas Program. It was a lot of fun and a HUGE success. God’s Blessings to everyone.

16

N E W A S S O C I AT E PA S TO R

ADDING A NEW ASSOCIATE PASTOR AT FIRST LUTHERAN?Hello members of First Lutheran Church. The council would like to share some news about an opportu-nity to grow our pastoral staff and enhance youth and young adult ministry.

This plan would entail First Lutheran calling an Associate Pastor who would be focused on youth and young adult ministry within our church, while also extending 50 percent of his or her time to Campus Min-istry at UNK. So essentially, this is a 50/50 split position.

There are many logistics to consider with this plan. First off, finances. A grant was applied for, and se-cured by the Nebraska Lutheran Campus Ministry and First Lutheran from the Immanuel Vision Founda-tion. This grant would place $85,000 into the salary line to be split into three payments ($35K in year one, $25K in year two and three). The Synod has agreed to offer $75,000 towards this plan ($25K per year for three years), and First Lutheran has been asked to come up with an additional $75,000 ($25K per year for three years).

This position would start out as a 3-year term call, as the finances are initially planned to cover a 3-year period. The call could be extended if the financial resources are in place and all parties agree to continue the ministry effort.

Another logistic to consider is organizational structure. Who’s the boss? This person would be called by First Lutheran and under the management structure of our church, with Pastor Michelle and Pastor Rick serving as the supervisors. We would extend half of the Associate Pastor’s time to Campus Lutheran ministry, filling a need within the UNK community. A designated advisory team would be involved on be-half of Campus Lutheran, to offer guidance and consultation as needed.

We understand there are many questions to be answered regarding this plan. This is a big opportunity that offers some challenges, but many rewarding benefits as well. As always, we want the congregation to have an opportunity to ask questions and voice their opinions. Therefore, we will have a listening ses-sion with Q&A before we have a congregational meeting to vote on this plan. Here are the dates:

LISTENING SESSION WITH Q&A – Sunday, January 20th at 9:45am in the Sanctuary

CONGREGATIONAL MEETING TO VOTE – Sunday, February 10th at 9:45am in the Sanctuary. NOTE: This meeting would be to vote ‘yes’ or ‘no’ on whether to enter the call process. If ‘yes,’ then the council would begin forming a call committee to complete the process.

In the meantime, please pray about this opportunity. Pray that God guide our church according to His will.

Prayerfully and Respectfully,

Your Church CouncilMark Kottmeyer (President), Kim Troudt (Vice President), Rachel Leach (Secretary), Kyle Means (Trea-surer), Gary Andersen, Keith Powell, Myron Riddle, Kelly Russman, Judy Henning, Pastor Michelle, and Pastor Rick

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A R C H I V E SChurch Parsonage

In 1956 the church purchased the land where we are currently located. On October 17, 1957, a special congregational meeting was called for the purpose of deciding on the building of the parsonage at 3320 Ave G. As a result of this meeting a new parsonage was built at a cost of $18,600. It was dedicated November 9, 1958 by the District President, the Rev. Clarence Hall. Pastor Ebb and family lived in the parsonage for 16 years. At that time they moved into their own private residence. The church then sold the property.

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A N N O U N C E M E N T S

19

J A N U A R YJan 2019 (C

entral Time - C

hicago)Events C

alendar - First Lutheran Church

3031

12

34

5

67

89

1011

12

1314

1516

1718

19

2021

2223

2425

26

2728

2930

311

2

All Preschool is on C

hristmas vacation/holiday

OFFIC

E CLO

SED9:30am

- H.A

.T.S., C

afe

5:15pm - E

xecutivem

eeting - CR

5:15pm - Praiser B

ells - S

6pm

- Adult B

ible Study - C

R6:30pm

- Prayer S

hawl

6:50pm - C

onfirmation

Class - FH

, 17B,

18, 19, 20, 21, 22

10am - C

offee Hour @

Café

10:30am - S

taff Meeting, C

5:30pm - Jubilee M

eal - CH

5:30pm - P

ersonnel Team

Meeting, C

R7p

m - S

afety Taskforce - F

H

Pastors D

ay Off

11am - B

oy Scouts P

inewood D

erby - C

H5p

m - C

omm

union Training - S6p

m - W

orship

All Preschool is on

Christm

as vacation/holidayEpiphany of O

ur Lord

8:45am - W

orship

9:45am - Tom

& C

arol B

osshardt'sFarew

ell between

services - CH

11am - W

orship & Praise, S

8:30am - C

ounters, CR

8:30am - Q

uilt Tying, QR

9a

m - V

ocationalA

ssistance Group

10:15am - Preschool

Chapel - S

6:30pm - C

are and Grow

th

7pm

- Board M

eeting for W

omen's ELC

A - FH

7pm

- Boy Scout Troop 139,

NH

/CH

,18-22

7a

m - Sunrise G

roup, FH

10:15am - Preschool

Chapel - S

2pm

- Prayer Tim

e, C

2:30pm - Preschool C

hapel - S5:30pm

- Chancel B

ells - S

7pm

- Congr.C

ouncil, FH

Youth program

ming begins

5:15pm - Praiser B

ells - S

5:30pm - Feeding the Flock

- CH

5:30pm - P

raise Team -

North H

all6p

m - A

dult Bible Study -

CR

6pm

- Imaging Tech Team

, #

96:15pm

- Heavenly Treble

Makers - C

hapel

Pastors gone in A

fternoon

10am - C

offee Hour @

Café

10:30am - S

taff Meeting, C

5:30pm - Jubilee M

eal - CH

6pm

- Boy Scouts - FH

+ C

lassrooms

Pastors D

ay Off

8:15am - PreschoolR

egistration (currently enrolled fam

ilies)

9:30am - P

rayer Retreat -

FH

6pm

- Worship

8:45am - W

orship

9:55am - A

dult Forum - FH

9:55am - C

hristianE

ducation11am

- Worship &

Praise, S

8:30am - C

ounters, CR

9a

m - V

ocationalA

ssistance Group

10:15am - Preschool

Chapel - S

6pm

- Mission O

utreach Team

, CR

7pm

- Boy Scout Troop 139,

NH

/CH

,18-227p

m - G

race Bible Study -

FH

Messenger D

eadline

7a

m - Sunrise G

roup, FH

9a

m - R

ebekah Circle - C

R

10:15am - Preschool

Chapel - S

2pm

- Prayer Tim

e, C

2:30pm - Preschool C

hapel - S5:30pm

- Chancel B

ells - S

6:30pm - S

tewardshipTeam

Meet; C

R

10:30am - S

taff Meeting, C

5:15pm - Praiser B

ells - S

5:30pm - Feeding the Flock

- CH

5:30pm - P

raise Team -

North H

all6p

m - A

dult Bible Study -

CR

6:15pm - H

eavenly Treble M

akers - Chapel

6:30pm - FR

OG

Opening - S

6:30pm - P

rayer Shaw

l

Pastors out of office

9a

m - A

bigail Circle

10am - C

offee Hour @

Café

12pm

- Gloria C

ircle, FH

5:30pm - Jubilee M

eal - CH

6pm

- Boy Scouts - N

H +

Classroom

s

NE Synod M

iddle School Youth Gathering @

FLC -

CH

/FH/C

lassrooms &

SP

astors Day O

ff

8:15am - PreschoolR

egistration(congregationm

embers)

8:30am - W

omens ELC

A

Winter R

etreat - S

t. Paul

Lutheran's Church

in Grand Island

6pm

- Worship

NE Synod M

iddle School Youth G

athering @ FLC

- C

H/FH

/Classroom

s & S

8:45am - W

orship - S

9:45am - Listening Session

- S9:55am

- Christian

Education

11am - W

orship & Praise, S

OFFIC

E CLO

SED

6pm

- Witness &

Mem

bers Team

, CR

7pm

- Boy Scout Troop 139,

NH

/CH

,18-227p

m - D

eborah Circle, FH

7a

m - Sunrise G

roup, FH

8:30am - C

ounters, CR

10:15am - Preschool

Chapel - S

2pm

- Prayer Tim

e, C

2:30pm - Preschool C

hapel - S5:30pm

- Chancel B

ells - S

7pm

- PreschoolBoard,C

R

2pm

- Messenger folding,

CR

5:15pm - Praiser B

ells - S

5:30pm - Feeding the Flock

- CH

5:30pm - P

raise Team -

North H

all6p

m - A

dult Bible Study -

CR

6:15pm - H

eavenly Treble M

akers - Chapel

6:30pm - FR

OG

Opening - S

10am - C

offee Hour @

Café

10:30am - S

taff Meeting, C

5:30pm - Jubilee M

eal - CH

6pm

- Boy Scouts - N

H +

Classroom

s7:30pm

- Naom

i Circle - @

D

iane R's house

Pastors D

ay Off

2pm

- Messenger printing

8:15am - PreschoolR

egistration (public)

6pm

- Worship

8:45am - Ludeen B

aptism -

S8:45am - W

orship

9:30am - Preschool

Breakfast

9:55am - A

dult Bible Study

with D

ave Zimm

er titled "Enough" - F

H9:55am

- Adult B

ible Study w

ith Dave Zim

mer

titled "Enough" - F

H9:55am

- Christian

Education

11am - W

orship & Praise, S

8:30am - C

ounters, CR

9a

m - V

ocationalA

ssistance Group

10:15am - Preschool

Chapel - S

7pm

- Boy Scout Troop 139,

NH

/CH

,18-227p

m - W

orship Life Team,

CR

7a

m - Sunrise G

roup, FH

10:15am - Preschool

Chapel - S

2pm

- Prayer Tim

e, C

2:30pm - Preschool C

hapel - S5:30pm

- Chancel B

ells - S

7pm

- Preschool Board

Budget M

eeting, CR

5:15pm - Praiser B

ells - S

5:30pm - Feeding the Flock

- CH

5:30pm - P

raise Team -

North H

all6p

m - A

dult Bible Study -

CR

6:15pm - H

eavenly Treble M

akers - Chapel

6:30pm - FR

OG

Opening - S

6:30pm - P

rayer Shaw

l

10am - C

offee Hour @

Café

10:30am - S

taff Meeting, C

5:30pm - Jubilee M

eal - CH

Sun

Mo

nTue

Wed

ThuFri

Sat

20

FIRST LUTHERAN CHURCH3315 G Avenue - Kearney, Nebraska 68847

Non-Profit Org.U.S. POSTAGE PAID

Permit No. 155Kearney, NE 68847

First Lutheran Church, ELCA3315 G AvenueKearney, Nebraska 68847-3699

ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED

LIVE VIDEO STREAM BROADCAST SUNDAYS AT 8:45 AM & 11:00 AMLIVE RADIO BROADCAST SUNDAY MORNINGS 8:45 AM ON KXPN 1460 AM

PHONE: 308-237-5544 WEB: www.firstlutherankearney.org

SUNDAY

8:45 AM Worship with Communion

11:00 AM Praise and Prayer with Communion

SATURDAY

6:00 PMWorship with Communion

PLEASE JOIN US AT ONE OF OUR WORSHIP TIMES

JANUARY 2019

RECEIVINGGOD’S GRACE

SHARINGGOD’S LOVE

UNITINGIN CHRIST