july 2010
DESCRIPTION
The Voice Monthly Newsletter, Zion Lutheran Church, Buffalo, MN, ELCATRANSCRIPT
O f f i c e @ Z i onB u f fa l o . o r g ( 76 3 ) 6 8 2 - 1 2 45 w w w.Z i onB u f fa l o . o r g
ZION LUTHERAN CHURCH • BUFFALO, MN JULY 2010
Sunday Worship Services
8:30 am Traditional Worship in the Sanctuary with nursery available 9:45 am Family Express in Trinity Hall 10:30 am Jubilee Worship in the Sanctuary with nursery available
Sunday School
Available for children ages 3 to grade 6 at 8:30 and 10:30 during the school year
Monday Evening Worship
7:00 pm Worship at Historic Marysville in June, July & August
Wednesday Nights
Programs for elementary students, choirs, handbells, confirmation and supper during the school year.
Contact Us
Email [email protected] Online www.ZionBuffalo.org Office Hours Monday-Friday 8:30am-4:30pm (12:00pm summer Fridays) Church Office (763) 682-1245 Fax (763) 684-1967 Street Address 1200 Highway 25 South, Buffalo (across from 13th St S.) Mailing Address PO Box 88, Buffalo, MN 55313
Prayer Requests
Call the church office at 763.682.1245 or visit Zion online at ZionBuffalo.org with your prayer requests. If you want a pastoral visit or would like to be included in pastoral prayers during worship, please use a yellow pew card or call the church office.
Address, Phone & Email Corrections
Zion maintains a database of all its members. If you have had any changes to your address, phone number, marital status, etc. please contact Angela with your name, phone number and the changes that need to be made.
If You Are Ill
Hospitals no longer notify churches when their members are admitted for care. Call 763.682.1245 and let us know so we can support you with prayer and with presence.
Weekly Bulletin Insert
Deadline: Thursdays at Noon
The Voice
A monthly publication of Zion Lutheran Church
Upcoming Deadlines
July 19 for August 2010 Issue
August 16 for September 2010 Issue
Editor: Angela Bengtson
This Month’s Cover
Sandy, Pat & Idella greeting VBS participants
Zion Staff
Ted Vanderpan: Senior Pastor
ext. 304 | [email protected]
Karri Anderson: Interim Associate Pastor
ext. 305 | [email protected]
Sherilyn Burgdorf: Shared Ministry Director
ext. 307 | [email protected]
Roxie Otten: Co-Director of Christian Education
ext. 331 | [email protected]
Holly Husom: Co-Director of Christian Education
ext. 331 | [email protected]
Myron Crawford: Director of Youth Ministries
ext. 308 | [email protected]
Jim Onstad: Youth Staff
Diane Montplaisir: Administrative Secretary
ext. 302 | [email protected]
Angela Bengtson: Communications & Membership
ext. 325 | [email protected]
Sue Stensrud: Financial Secretary
ext. 303 | [email protected]
Tom Janzen: Interim Building & Grounds Manager
Holly Husom: Interim Part Time Custodian
Jennifer Weese & Tina Eich: Nursery Staff
Michael Walsh: Coordinator of Music
Congregational Council
Kevin Bergquist
Roger Brenny
Carol Clark
Dirk Foster
Tracy Gurneau
Kelly Hanson
Devonne Kent
Charles Krause
Sue Lyrek
Colleen Manninen
Scott Morin
Steve Peterson
Dave Schmidt
Doug Schmidt
Zion seeks to share Christ‟s word, strengthen faith and serve those in need. 2
Information
Worship Schedule
Sunday, July 4
Sixth Sunday after Pentecost
Luke 10:1-11, 16-20
Pastor Karri Preaching
Sunday, July 11
Seventh Sunday after Pentecost
Luke 10:25-37
Pastor Ted Preaching
Sunday, July 18
Eighth Sunday after Pentecost
Luke 10:38-42
Pastor Ted Preaching
Sunday, July 25
Ninth Sunday after Pentecost
Luke 11:1-13
Pastor Ted Preaching
July 7 Baptism Class
The next class for new or prospective
parents wishing to schedule a baptism at
Zion will be at 6pm on Wednesday,
July 7.
Expectant parents as well as those who
already are parents may attend the class.
Scheduling of baptisms will take place at
the class.
I often hear people say something about the size of Zion like, “Zion is a large church.” So what makes a church a “large church?” Both the number of people and the way a church functions make a church a “large church.”
The number of people that participate in Zion‟s ministry is what most people mean when they indicate that Zion is a large church. For instance, did you know that:
Based on a membership of 4,000 Zion is about the 35th largest of 10,400 ELCA congregations.
Our average worship attendance (everyone in the building on Sunday morning) is 885 which places Zion in the top 0.5% of all ELCA congregations for size.
Based on average attendance Zion is about the 60th largest ELCA congregation.
When you look at the numbers, Zion is a large church. But numbers only tell part of the story. Another thing that distinguishes a large church from a smaller church is the way it functions. Last month I identified some characteristics of large churches:
An emphasis on excellence in music and programming
The congregation is made up of many “small congregations”
Members cannot know everyone – relationships form around common interests
The role of the Senior Pastor becomes more focused/less general
Staff become competent experts in their field, leading ministries with members
Decision making has several layers; elected leaders, staff, and committees
Pastoral care comes not just from the pastoral staff
Several of those bullet points are about the relationships we experience in a large church. Great relationships can be found in any size church. There is very little difference between the following two statements;
I know everyone but I know some people really well.
I don‟t know everyone but I know some people really well.
Both of the statements reflect meaningful, supportive relationships found in a church. In the large church, members cannot know everyone and so relationships form around common interests. Thus, large churches like Zion are made up of many small congregations. The large number of ministries, small groups, and worship experiences at Zion provide a variety of places for people to get to know others. Our common mission “To share Christ’s word, strengthen faith and serve those in need,” holds us together. Each of us can find a part of the mission that is particularly important and meaningful for us, which gives us a place to participate.
Understanding these dynamics can help us understand what to expect of life in a larger church. Stay tuned as next month I write about the role of paid staff in the large church.
3
From the Pastor
What Makes A Church Large?
Summer Second Wednesdays are Back
Second Wednesdays were a hit last summer. All who came enjoyed the meals, the conversation and connections as well as the worship, and the variety of activities. Make memories this summer with an evening celebrating music and worship.
Supper served 5-6pm
BBQ sandwiches and root beer floats will be served. Free-will donations to cover the cost will be accepted.
Worship service at 6:15
The worship service led by youth director Myron Crawford will include some Gospel music, and will last about a half-hour.
Adult Education Program at 7pm
How Christians Worship
Christians worship with a wide variety of styles. Have you ever heard of snake handlers in worship? Have you ever wondered where the phrase “holy rollers” comes from? Do you know who the “liturgical police” are? All of these things have something to do with Christian worship. Pastor Ted will lead an adult education session on “Make A joyful Noise – How Christians Worship.” We will look at historical, generational, and ethnic trends in Christian worship and have an opportunity to reflect on our own preferences for worship.
Senior High Graceland at 7pm
Music: What Are You Listening To?
Gather with other students entering grades 9-12 to discuss the power of our choices, even in music.
Family Activity at 7pm
S'mores and camp songs led by Roxie down by the lake for young children and children at heart.
Harvest of Hands at 7pm
The HOH craft group will work on a bead project.
Baptisms
May 9
Aünika Lynlei Sankey
Carter James Lance
May 23
Jaelynn Rose Kistler
May births & pastoral acts will be
reported in the July Newsletter.
Active Military
Please Pray For
Ben Pecarina
Returned from Afghanistan, stationed at Las
Vegas, NV
Cody Bauman
Deployed to Afghanistan
Chris Paulsen-Schmidt
Deployed on the USS Eisenhower
Christopher Brophy
Deployed to Iraq
Fred Pierce
Stationed at Little Rock AFB, AR
Will Dobbins
Stationed in Japan
Korey Siltman
Deployed to Basrah, Iraq
Greg Bremseth
Stationed at the MEPS in Houston, TX
DeAnna Strommen
Stationed at Fort Hood, TX
Please let the church office know of any
additions or corrections to this list.
Twins Game Sold Out
The 2010 Thrivent Lutheran Night at
the Twins game at Target Field on
August 18 is sold out, so Zion is unable
to coordinate discounted group tickets
this year.
If you belong to the Wright County
Thrivent Chapter, already have tickets
and would be interested in free bus ride
to the game, contact county board
members Barb Schmieg at (320)543-
2010 or Margo Block at (763)682-
4865 before July 18 (they may suggest
contacting your congregational
advocate, but Zion does not yet have
any volunteers for that position).
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News and Views
Make a Joyful Noise! Wednesday, July 14
Fellowship & Study
See the Dead Sea Scrolls with Zionaires
Zionaries senior group will be taking a trip to the Science Museum of Minnesota on Tuesday, July 20 (the date has been changed from July 21).
First, explore a once in a lifetime archaeological find of the 20th century, the Dead Sea Scrolls, which includes the earliest texts of the Bible.
See the St John‟s Bible which represents history‟s newest hand written, illustrated Bible. It is a monumental project with artistic and spiritual significance and was created in Minnesota at St. John‟s University.
Finally, view the 45 minute Omnitheater film, Arabia, which gives an unprecedented look at the rich history, culture, and religion of Arabia.
The transportation, tickets for the Dead Sea Scrolls, the SJU Bible, and the Omnitheater are $30 per person. Leave from the church at 9:00 and return at about 3:30. Sign up at the Church Office or call the Brennys at 682-2979.
Other upcoming Zionaires events include:
August 11: Fishing and a picnic on Lake Pulaski
Sept 15: The Museums and Gardens of St Cloud
Oct 20: Lawyer/Financial Planner speaking at Zion
Nov : Christmas Tree Decorating at the Wright County Museum
Dec 16: Lunch with the Zion Staff
Zion Book Club
The Zion Book Club will meet on
Monday, July 12, at 7pm in the Library
to discuss A Northern Light by Jennifer
Donnelly, a coming-of-age novel set in
1906 against the backdrop of the
murder that inspired Theodore Dreiser’s
An American Tragedy.
Marysville Ice Cream
Social
The annual ice cream social at
Marysville will be on Monday, August
2. Come and celebrate the beautiful
Marysville Church with some pie and
ice cream before or after the 7pm
service. The council is also planning
some fun and games!
For those of you who have never
attended a historic Marysville service,
this is the perfect opportunity to give it
a try.
Softball League
The Zion Softball Team plays in the
Churches for Christ softball league on
Friday nights at the fields on the corner
of 34 & 134. The full schedule can be
found online, and everyone is invited to
come on out and support our team.
July 9: 8pm Field 2 vs Covenant 2
July 16: 8pm Field 2 vs Delano Catholic
July 23: 7pm Field 2 vs Covenant 1
July 30: 7pm Field 1 vs St. Paul’s
August 6: 9pm Field 1 vs St. Francis
Foundation Investment
Committee
The Zion Foundation, which supports
projects outside of the normal church
budget, is currently looking for 3
congregational members to be on a new
Foundation Investment Committee.
Applicants must have knowledge and/or
expertise in financial investing.
Contact the church office or Scott
Morin.
5
Making shirts at VBS … more photos at ZionBuffalo.org/VBS/Photos
The Church is Where Everyone Matters
by Pastor Kelly Chatman of Redeemer Lutheran Church in North Minneapolis. He is currently on sabbatical.
The new Twins stadium is within walking distance of Redeemer, and they have assembled a team that is exciting to follow. At Redeemer we have several things in common with the Twins. Through our capital campaign commitments we are making improvements to our stadium; I mean building. The improvements to our building make it possible that when people walk through the doors of our church, they will find that Redeemer is accessible and that our building is easy to navigate. When people enter into the bathrooms our future physical construction will make it easy to notice the time and attention our custodian (Maggie) dedicates to keeping the building clean. When they see the improvements to lighting, cabinets and storage in the kitchen, fellowship hall and hallways, it will add to the excitement of our gatherings.
When you visit the new Twins stadium you will notice that in reality the excitement is about more than just the baseball game. The real deal is that the stadium invites people into the excitement of a gathering where people experience community and share a social transaction.
My friend, Pastor Jason VanHunnik from Westwood, invited me to be his guest at the second home game at the new Twins stadium. I enjoyed the opportunity to spend time with a good friend, on a gorgeous day, in the beautiful new stadium we are all paying a lot of money for, and shared the excitement of the new season. I also appreciated that instead of parking at the stadium we were able to walk back to Redeemer after the game.
I observed another team experience when Redeemer generously granted to our worship leader a one month sabbatical. During the time of Yolanda‟s sabbatical
we experienced the deep reservoir of talent, gifts and spirit God has blessed us with at Redeemer. During the month we were
blessed to experience how our congregation is a team with many talented members. We experienced people playing
keyboard, guitar, singing, playing tambourine and other hand instruments. Each Sunday at Redeemer adults
freely distribute hand instruments to a field of people strategically located throughout the worship space. Worship is like
a baseball game where everyone is on the team. Worship is where everyone is a participant and everybody has a place and a role to play.
I pray that during my sabbatical Redeemer will share the kind of discovery and excitement we have discovered during our worship leader‟s sabbatical. I hope the congregation will discover that Redeemer is a team with a deep bench. My prayer is that you will experience a depth and excitement that grows when new people enter and are
welcomed, not only into the church, but invited to be on the team. I hope that people will venture out into the community to share with people the promise of a church that cares about them and is relevant to their lives. I pray that people will continue to experience how Redeemer is a courageous and hope-filled place where people believe that it really only matters when everyone matters.
Kelsey in Malaysia
Kelsey has had the opportunity to join
in a couple of cultural trips a little
further from the area where she is
staying.
In May, she was able to join a group of
other YAGM volunteers in a trip up Mt.
Kinabalu. She made it to the 11,000
foot point before altitude sickness got
the better of her, and she was unable to
make the final leg.
She also made a trip to Singapore
where they visited a jazz club, an arts
show, and the Singapore Zoo. “It is a
very large zoo with so many different
animals to see and shows to catch. We
were able to watch a water show and
the elephant show! Something unique to
this zoo is that many of the cages are
open. At some parts you needed to
watch your head because there could be
a monkey or two hanging above you!”
She has shared several photos from
both trips on her blog at http://kelsey-
malaysia.blogspot.com/.
Kelsey returns home in July.
Kelsey Mackereth is a member of Zion
who is spending a year volunteering in
Malaysia with the ELCA Young Adults
in Global Mission program.
Global Mission Ministry
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“He who gives to the poor will lack nothing, but he who closes his eyes to them receives many curses.” Proverbs 28:27
What is Love INC?
Love in the Name of Christ is a proven model that networks local churches, church volunteers, and community organizations together to help people in need. Through Love INC, churches and individual Christians are mobilized to work together, across denominational lines, to provide coordinated help to the poor with basic needs such as food and clothing, to longer-term responses such as life skills training and transitional housing programs.
Founded in 1977, today there are more than 140 Love INC affiliates in 30 states, representing a network of more than 9,000 churches, 6,000 community-based organizations, and 300,000 volunteers meeting more than one million needs each year. The Love INC National Headquarters assists communities in developing new affiliates and supports existing affiliates by providing training, technical assistance, marketing materials, networking opportunities, and best practices.
Love INC – Big Woods
Love in the Name of Christ Big Woods is a newly formed affiliate aiming to improve the overall health and wellness of individuals and families in the Wright County communities of Buffalo, Maple Lake, and Hanover. Currently, Love INC - Big Woods represents a group of eight Christian churches that will address the needs of our area with more churches to come on board. By using local church members to serve as volunteers and mentors, our mission is to mobilize the church to transform lives and communities in the Name of Christ. The church doorstep is a common destination for those in need. But most churches alone cannot fully meet the needs of every homeless family, unemployed father, single mom, hungry child or senior citizen. Love INC enables churches in a community to coordinate their resources and services, so that our neighbors in need are not turned away. This is a great opportunity for Christian denominations to come together in a truly ecumenical way to transform and serve people in the Name of Christ. Through Love INC - Big Woods, forces will be joined to improve the lives of people in need, and enrich the spirits of our individual churches and the communities in the process.
Making a Difference
As Love INC - Big Woods begins to demonstrate Christ‟s love to our neighbors, we will begin to see exciting results:
Families in need will receive immediate and long-term help.
Church members will use their gifts and talents in hands-on ministry.
Churches of all denominations will work together, showing the unity of the Body of Christ.
Individuals, families, and communities will be transformed.
The cross represents:
the center of God's love for us
the very center of who Love In the
Name of Christ is
the foundation of the Church
the unifying force of the Love INC
movement
hope for the present and future
The color red represents:
the blood of Christ
the love of Jesus Christ and the
supreme sacrifice He made for us all
The heart represents:
the love of God for all
the love we have for each other, the
Church, and people in need
The color purple represents:
redemption
redemptive love
transforming love
The freehand drawing and unfinished edges
represent:
Love INC's grassroots, relational
approach to ministry
“Do not withhold good from those who deserve it, when it is in your power to act. Do not say
to your neighbor, „Come back later; I'll give it tomorrow‟—when you now have it with
you.” Proverbs 3:27-28
ZionBuffalo.org/Local 7
Community Mission Ministry
Monday July 12
6:30am Zion Day Camp
7:00pm Marysville Worship Service
7:00pm Zion Book Club
7:30pm Alcoholics Anonymous
Tuesday July 13
6:30am Zion Day Camp
9:00am Harvest of Hands Crafts
9:00am Kitchen Cleaning
9:30am Staff Meeting
12:00pm LSS Counseling
7:00pm Jubilee Rehearsal
7:00pm Global Missions Committee
Wednesday July 14
Summer Second Wednesday
6:30am Zion Day Camp
10:00am Devotions at Park View
5:00pm Second Wednesday Supper
6:15pm Second Wednesday Worship
7:00pm Adult Education with Pastor
Ted: How Christians Worship
7:00pm Graceland Senior High Group
7:00pm S’mores & Camp Songs
7:00pm Harvest of Hands Crafts
7:00pm Foundation Meeting
Thursday July 15
6:30am Zion Day Camp
7:00pm Foundation Meeting
7:30pm Rebecca Circle
Friday July 16
6:30am Zion Day Camp
9:00am LSS Counseling
Saturday July 17
Sunday July 18
Holy Communion at 8:30 and 10:30
8:30am Traditional Worship Service
9:30am Coffee Fellowship
9:45am Family Express Worship
10:30am Contemporary Worship Service,
sending service for Senior High
Chicago Mission Trip
2:00pm Park View Devotions
5:00pm “Reaching Out” Gospel Festival
at Sturges Park
Monday July 19
6:30am Zion Day Camp
7:00pm Marysville Service
7:30pm Alcoholics Anonymous
Tuesday July 20
6:30am Zion Day Camp
9:30am Staff Meeting
9:30am Naomi Circle
12:00pm LSS Counseling
5:30pm Stewardship Meeting
7:00pm Property Committee Meeting
7:00pm Jubilee Rehearsal
Wednesday July 21
6:30am Zion Day Camp
7:00am Men's 50+ Bible Study
9:15am Devotions at Sunrise
6:00pm Capital Campaign Meeting
7:30pm Church Council Meeting
Thursday July 22
6:30am Zion Day Camp
5:00pm Wedding Rehearsal
Friday July 23
6:30am Zion Day Camp
9:00am LSS Counseling
Saturday July 24
Sunday July 25
8:30am Traditional Worship Service
9:30am Coffee Fellowship
9:45am Family Express Worship
10:30am Contemporary Worship Service
Monday July 26
6:30am Zion Day Camp
7:00pm Marysville Worship Service
7:30pm Alcoholics Anonymous
Tuesday July 27
6:30am Zion Day Camp
9:00am Harvest of Hands Crafts
9:30am Staff Meeting
12:00pm LSS Counseling
7:00pm Jubilee Rehearsal
7:00pm Personnel Committee Meeting
Thursday July 1
6:30am Zion Day Camp
Friday July 2
6:30am Zion Day Camp
9:00am LSS Counseling
Saturday July 3
Sunday July 4
Holy Communion at 8:30, 9:45, and
10:30
Independence Day
8:30am Traditional Worship Service
9:30am Coffee Fellowship
9:45am Family Express Worship
10:30am Contemporary Worship Service
11:45am Executive Committee Meeting
Monday July 5
Office Closed
7:00pm Marysville Worship Service
7:30pm Alcoholics Anonymous
Tuesday July 6
6:30am Zion Day Camp
9:30am Staff Meeting
12:00pm LSS Counseling
6:30pm Social Ministry Committee
7:00pm Jubilee Rehearsal
Wednesday July 7
6:30am Zion Day Camp
7:00am Men's 50+ Bible Study
6:00pm Baptism Class
7:00pm Call Committee Meeting
Thursday July 8
6:30am Zion Day Camp
Friday July 9
6:30am Zion Day Camp
9:00am LSS Counseling
Saturday July 10
Sunday July 11
8:30am Traditional Worship Service
9:30am Coffee Fellowship
9:45am Family Express Worship
10:30am Contemporary Worship Service
ZionBuffalo.org/Calendar
July Calendar
8
Wednesday July 28
6:30am Zion Day Camp
9:00am Newsletter Assembly
9:30am Devotions at Lake Ridge
10:30am Devotions at Park View
7:00pm Harvest of Hands Crafts
Thursday July 29
6:30am Zion Day Camp
Friday July 30
6:30am Zion Day Camp
9:00am LSS Counseling
Gospel Festival at Sturges Park
A collaborative effort between Zion Lutheran in Buffalo and Redeemer Lutheran in Minneapolis will bring together multiple congregations to form a gospel choir which will perform on July 18 at 5pm in the Sturges Park band shell. Inclement weather location is the Zion sanctuary.
Since the concert is in Sturges Park you‟re invited to bring a picnic, your lawn chairs or blankets and enjoy a night of great music at the band shell. We may also have vendors at the park selling treats during the concert. Put the date on your calendar and invite your neighbors and friends for a great event.
Gospel music is the core unifying thread and will be presented by a mass choir, various small groups, and accomplished band members. The event will also include a praise and worship element, hip hop ministry presentations and a pastoral message.
Rehearsal information for those interested in being part of the choir for this event is available at ZionBuffalo.org/GospelFestival.
Mondays at Marysville
During June, July & August services are held each Monday evening at 7pm at the Historic Marysville Church, on County Road 9 between Buffalo and Waverly.
The Swedesburg (AKA Marysville) Church was organized by Pastor Nelson in February 1873. The same pastors served the Swedesburg and Carlslund (later know as Zion) congregations until Swedesburg disbanded in 1950 and the members joined Zion. In 1973 the building was restored to celebrate the centennial of Swedesburg, and Monday evening summer services commenced at that time.
Marysville is just a short 10-15 minute drive from downtown Buffalo. From the stoplights by the courthouse/library, head west on Lake Blvd N/CR 35. After 3 miles turn left and follow CR 35/CR 9. After 1.8 miles turn left and continue on CR 9. Marysville is a further 2.5 miles on the right. Remember that this is a little country church with no modern amenities.
9
Financial Report
May 2010
General Services Fund
Income May 2010 YTD 2010 May 2009 YTD 2009 General Offering $54,619.00 $286,157.15 $64,427.93 $274,457.23
Rent and Sunday School 965.78 10,238.87 1,480.61 15,350.80
Missions and Hunger 834.00 5,328.00 959.00 5,244.00
Other Designations 1,514.00 7,210.25 1,521.00 6,434.50
Total $57,932.78 $308,934.27 $68,388.54 $301,486.53
Expenses Synod Benevolence $1,500.00 $7,500.00 $1,500.00 $7,500.00
Other General Services 48,940.77 292,117.53 48,012.98 297,558.77
Total $50,440.77 $299,617.53 $49,512.98 $305,058.77
Account Balance as of 5-31-10: $8,686.60
General Fund Note: $20,000 was borrowed from Klein Bank in 2009 on an established Line of Credit to assist with cash flow. An additional $20,000 was borrowed on 6-4-10 to pay for the parking lot seal coating which is scheduled for late June 2010. We have been making Interest only payments on this line.
Forward in Faith Fund
Income May 2010 YTD 2010 May 2009 YTD 2009 Offerings and Interest $16,346.00 $85,025.04 $21,097.87 $75,149.46
Other Receipts 0.00 0.00 0.00 1,500.00
Total Income $16,346.00 $85,025.04 $21,097.87 $76,649.46
Expenses Building Mortgage $17,087.30 $85,436.50 $17,087.30 $85,436.50
Roof/Parking Lot Loan 1,305.03 6,525.15 522.22 $2,654.75
Major Building Repairs 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
3% Tithe Expense 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
Kairos Consulting -5,000.00 5,000.00 0.00 0.00
Bank Service Charge 15.00 30.00 0.00 0.00
Total Expenses $13,407.33 $96,991.65 $17,609.52 $88,091.25
Account Balance as of 5-31-2010: $20,487.64
Thank you for your continued support of Zion Lutheran Church with your prayers, your service and your offerings.
Gifts to Zion
To the Zion Foundation in memory
of Jan Halvorson from John
Halvorson.
To the Library Fun in memory of
Robert Ziegler from Donna Stedje.
To the Zion Foundation in memory
of Robert Ziegler from family and
Zion friends.
Generous Giving to God
Luke 12:34- Jesus says, “For where your
treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
This month the Stewardship Committee
touches on value #3, “Generous
Giving,” from “Ask, Thank, Tell” by
Charles R. Lane. Mr. Lane refers to the
above Bible passage as he introduces
this value. It seems like such an obviously
true statement today. Most people have
something that gets us motivated, excited
or eager to participate. Maybe it is
some sort of hobby like gardening,
sewing, fishing, reading, singing or
maybe golfing to name a few. Many
people focus on a particular charity or
organization that helps to raise funds
and gives our time to others with
various challenges in their lives.
No matter what may excite you to
participate, remember that all of this is
possible because God has provided it to
you. Mr. Lane states that, “God’s
incredible generosity is the basis for any
call for generous giving on the part of
God’s people. We can’t out-give God.
As Christians, one of our key faith
statements must be that we will always
have enough, because God provides us
with all we need. Because God has
blessed us so generously, we can, and
must, give generously to others,
especially those in need.”
Are you a “Generous Giver”? Are the
treasures that God has provided you
being shared back to do God’s work?
Are your treasures and your heart in the
same place?
10
Finance & Stewardship
Will You Try the Power Surge?
The ministries of Zion are in full swing over the summer, and new and exciting plans are being made for the Fall, including the call to an Associate Pastor, the beginning of a visioning process that will lead us into the next three to five years, and a new approach to stewardship.
To help us prepare for this important time in Zion‟s history, the Vision Team, the Capital Campaign Leadership Team, the Stewardship Committee and the staff are encouraging the entire congregation to participate in a book study and discussion of Power Surge: Six Marks of Discipleship for a Changing Church by Pastor Michael Foss.
During August and September, you are invited to read Power Surge and participate in a series of discussions with others (in your families, with small groups that are already formed, and in new groups to be formed soon, or online). The study will be a time where everyone at Zion has an opportunity to read, discuss, and pray together about our mission and our future. Copies of the book will be available at a reduced price for Zion families in late July, and Jim Pence, from
Kairos Associates, is planning to be at Zion to kick off the study with an introduction to the book in early August.
On September 12, Pastor Ted begins a three-part sermon series on topics drawn from Power Surge. In October, the Vision Team will organize a series of events based on the concepts in Power Surge, including a presentation by Pastor Foss. In November, the two stewardship groups will lead us into a new way of responding to the call to discipleship.
Watch for more information about Power Surge in the coming weeks.
A Promising Tomorrow: God’s Call, Our Gifts.
“A Promising Tomorrow” has been selected as the unified theme for the visioning process, the capital campaign, the annual stewardship appeal, and activities related to them. Jason Kabe explained that “the theme represents that we are headed somewhere good and with God‟s guidance and our time, talents, and support we will build [Zion‟s] future together.”
Work on related graphics is underway and a logo is expected to be presented in late July.
Marie “Bunnie” Wegler
Marie is a great-grandmother of four,
grandmother of seven, mother of four
and the main provider of embroidered
dish towels for Zion’s annual Harvest of
Hands festival.
Where does Marie find the time to sit
down and embroider? Marie’s mother
taught her how to embroider when she
was a child and she returned to this type
of needlework in retirement.
Approximately, nine years ago, Sandy
Brophy (her daughter and a Zion
member) asked her Mom if she would
be interested in embroidering some dish
towels for Harvest of Hands. Marie
replied “Yes” and she has been making
them every year since. A couple of
years ago, Marie embroidered one
hundred dish towels! Her embroidered
towels are sought after at the Harvest
of Hands event and quickly added to the
baskets of the shoppers as her
needlework is beautiful – both front and
back sides. Marie’s dish towel stitching
themes vary from funny to traditional.
Marie is 82 years young and lives in a
St. Cloud senior residence where she is
a very active participant in bingo, cards
and visiting with everyone. Her other
interests include reading and singing.
Harvest of Hands is very lucky and very
appreciative to have Marie as one of its
“stitching treasures.”
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Confirmation Registration
Attention all students who will be in Grade 7 or 8 in Fall of „10:
Registration for Confirmation is now open online.
This is for all new and returning students.
Registration for classes this year closes on Friday, August 20 and late registrations cannot be accepted.
Parents: Confirmation small group guides are needed as well. Take time to prayerfully consider making a two year commitment to foster the spiritual relationships of students.
Senior High Mission Trip News
All students who are attending the Senior High Mission Trip this summer should be paid in full. If you have questions or concerns, please contact Myron.
Remember these upcoming dates:
July 7: Mission Trip Training - 6pm - Students - 7:15 - Parents
July 18: Blessing/Sending of Students - 10:30am
July 23: Packing Party - 4:30pm-5pm
July 24: Depart for Mission Trip - 7am
Graceland Schedule
Graceland, the Senior High youth group, will meet throughout the summer at Zion from 6pm-8pm on the following dates and topics:
July 14: Music - What are You Listening To? The Power of Music
August 11: Faith Life - What Do You Need? Each night, there will be a meal, worship, games, and study. These nights are open to all students who will be in grades 9-12 in Fall „10. Come prepared with a Bible and notebook.
Confirmation Schedule
Students that will be attending Confirmation this fall, please mark your schedules with the following dates:
September 8: Small Group Leader Meeting - 6pm - Fellowship Hall
September 15: Parent Meeting - 6pm - Trinity Hall
September 22: First Night of Confirmation Classes - Large Group - 6pm
September 29: Confirmation Class - Small Groups begin - 6pm
Photo: Tony Abramowski and Tommy Middagh volunteering at VBS
ZionBuffalo.org/Youth
Youth Ministry
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Current Confirmation
Students
Just a reminder to current 7th & 8th grade students, ALL work must be completed for the year by August 1!
Make sure that your work is in.
Still Need Service Hours?
Contact Myron for some ideas!
Attention 8th Graders
The Affirmation of Baptism Service will be Saturday September 18 @ 1pm. Pictures will be taken at 10:30am.
There will be a retreat for all of the confirmands on Saturday September 11 @ 9am.
All requirements must be completed by August 1 to be confirmed. Late work will not be accepted.
Director of Youth Ministries
Myron Crawford
763-682-1245 ext. 308
Zion Youth Ministries exists to reach out
to youth, to come together and learn how
to be for God and others through worship,
study, fellowship and service.
Summer Schedule
Sundays July 4, 11, 18, 25
Everybody worship
Monday July 5
Zion Day Camp closed
Tuesday July 6 - Friday July 9
Zion Day Camp 6:30 AM-6:00 PM
Wednesday July 14
Summer Second Wednesday activities
Monday July 19 - Friday July 23
Zion Day Camp
Monday July 26 - Friday July 30
Zion Day Camp
ZionBuffalo.org/Children
Children’s Ministry
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Vacation Bible School
“Thank you” isn‟t enough to say. It takes so many volunteers to turn VBS into a wonderful faith-building, fun-filled week for so many children from Zion and the community. Thank you to all of the volunteers who helped with decorating, set-up, leading, cutting blankets, sewing bears, sorting, painting, teaching, donating supplies, caring for kids, cleaning , taking down and putting away. Thank you for donating time and finances to make a faithful impact on the hearts of 350 kids. Check out the photos at ZionBuffalo.org/VBS/Photos.
Summer Second Wednesday
Come and help us celebrate a tradition that started last summer. This is our second summer of the “Summer Second Wednesday” activities. Wednesday, July 14th will include S‟mores and camp songs for young children and children at heart. See page 4 or the website for more details.
Zion Day Camp
If you are looking for a place for your school-aged children this summer or planning ahead for next summer, consider Zion Day Camp. Now is a great time to try it out ! With only a few weeks left, it would be an opportune time to try Zion Day Camp to see if your kids would like to come next year. Contact Roxie for details.
Young Ringers Mini-Camp
If you're a young handbell ringer or would like to be, mark your calendars for August 11-13, 9am-2pm. Sherilyn Burgdorf and the “handbell pros” will lead a three day mini-camp for young musicians entering 4th grade-6th grade this fall.
New and experienced ringers are welcomed, Zion members and friends. Bring bag lunches. Snacks will be provided. A $5 fee is all we need to cover costs thanks to a generous gift from the Zion Foundation. Register early: there's a 22 ringer limit!
During the three days we will learn "ringing 101," practice some new music and have plenty of time for activities, music games, a field trip, tie dying, and more. Ringers will be invited to ring at the Summer Second Wednesday worship on Wednesday night, August 11 at 6:15pm. On Friday afternoon the group will present a mini-camp mini-concert for family and friends. Watch for more details at ZionBuffalo.org.
Sunday School Registration
Summer has only begun, but it‟s already time to plan for fall ... Watch for Sunday school registration to begin soon.
Photo: Skylar & Sofia after their visit to the Egyptian salon at VBS
CoDirectors of Christian Education
Roxie Otten
763-682-1245 ext. 311
Holly Husom
763-682-1245 x308
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Skyler, Anna & Mason at VBS. More photos at ZionBuffalo.org/VBS/Photos
Inside
Zion Lutheran Church
1200 Highway 25 S.
PO Box 88
Buffalo, MN 55313
www.ZionBuffalo.org
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Summer 2nd Wednesday 4
Dead Sea Scrolls Trip 5
Love INC - Big Woods 7
Gospel Festival 9
Monday Night Worship 9
Power Surge 11
A Promising Tomorrow 11
Marie “Bunnie” Wegler 11
Youth Ministries 12
Children‟s Ministries 13
VBS Photos 14
July 201
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ZionBuffalo.org