olivet monthly beacon · god’s kingdom. and then, i have to fight all the harder the rest of the...

MONTHLY BEACON

Volume 13, Number 3 March 2020

Sharing the Light and the Love of Our Lord

OLIVET

Soup & Sandwich Suppers Each Wednesday during Lent at 5:15 p.m.

March 4 Staff, Vision Board & Leaders March 11 Stephen Ministers & Chaplains March 18 Children & Youth March 25 Women of Olivet April 1 Men of Olivet

Hosts are responsible for setup, serving & cleanup, but everyone is encouraged to help by bringing a crockpot of soup, tray of sandwiches or dessert—Sign up at the table in the lobby or online using the link on the home page of our website.

Wednesdays - 6:30 p.m. - March 4, March 11, March 18, March 25 , April 1

Feb. 29-Mar. 1 The Light of the World

March 7-8 The Gate and the Good Shepherd

March 14-15 The Resurrection and the Life

March 21-22 The Way, The Truth and the Life

March 28-29 The Vine

April 11-12 Victorious: He Kept on Walking

I Am

This year’s Lenten services will include something a little different.

Many of you may have an idea of what a “Lenten Drama” is, and… well… to be blunt, what we’re doing this year is unlikely to fit into that mental image. The scenes (I personally don’t like using the word “drama” as I think it brings along too many connotations, some good, some not-so-good) will follow the I AM series. But while the weekend messages will elucidate what Jesus was talking about when He said (for in-stance), “I AM the Light of the World,” the AS IS series will focus on the challenges we face in living in a darkened world in need of Light.

And so the scenes will present different “slices of life.” Some will be serious and realistic and (I hope) challenging or thought provoking. Some will be lighthearted and less challenging (and yet, I also hope, still thought provoking).

You won’t see anyone dressed in a robe and tea towel speaking a long King James monologue as, for instance, Moses. We’ll be dressed in modern clothes speaking modern language presenting modern people wrestling with issues that modern people wrestle with. There will be young people and old people and people in the middle. There will be men and women and boys and girls. In short - there will hopefully be a little something for everyone when all is said and done.

AS IS: A Different Kind of Lenten Reflection

And we may or may not end up memorized. This has been a great challenge in years past that has caused many actors to spend many, many hours of work to prepare and also led to much stress and anxiety. So, we’ll use scripts as we need to. We hope you won’t mind. You see… we’re doing these scenes “AS IS.” We’re not a professional group of actors and hey… if our musicians can use music in worship, perhaps it’s OK that our actors hold scripts.

And after the scenes, Pastor Jeff or Pastor Andrew (or perhaps someone else) will share a short reflec-tion – a “mini-message.”

It has been my prayer that these scenes, crafted especially for Olivet, will be a blessing for you. Perhaps they will serve as a good excuse to invite someone whom you might not otherwise invite to worship. “We have this theatre guy at our church who’s written these ten-minute plays. Wanna come and watch one with me? He says they’re gonna be a little different.”

- Patrick Strain

Olivet Monthly Beacon 2

Palm Sunday, April 5: 8:00 & 10:00 a.m. Worship Services - Children will be singing

Brunch - 9:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Maundy Thursday, April 9: 6:30 p.m. Worship & First Communion Celebration Good Friday, April 10: 6:30 p.m. Tenebrae Service Easter Saturday, April 11: 5:30 p.m. Worship & Holy Communion Easter Sunday, April 12: 6:30 a.m. Sunrise Service & Holy Communion 8:00, 9:15 and 10:30 a.m. Easter Worship & Holy Communion ***PLEASE NOTE NEW TIMES OF EASTER SERVICES***

Special Children's Church at 8:00, 9:15 & 10:30 Please PRAY about whom you can INVITE to our Holy Week worship services.

SERVE as the welcoming voice and hands of Jesus to all who enter our doors. PR

AY

* I

NV

ITE

* S

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VE

Olivet will be hosting the Journey to the Cross prayer walk again this year. Many of you were able to partici-pate in the personal prayer walk last year and we received lots of great feedback. We hope that even more people will be able to enjoy the Journey this year.

The Journey to the Cross is a 13 station prayer walk that asks each individual to slow down, reflect and pre-pare their hearts for the death and resurrection of our Lord. The Journey typically takes people around 30 minutes to walk through. However, because it is an individual walk, you are welcome to move at your own pace. (Those with small children are encouraged to walk the Journey with their child)

The Journey to the Cross will begin in the Fellowship Hall. You are welcome to reserve a time slot at the con-nection center or by emailing the church office; however, walk-ins are welcome. Whether you reserve a time or not, please plan to join us for this impactful and reflective experience:

Journey to the Cross Hours: Maundy Thursday Thursday, April 9th 3:00-6:00pm

Good Friday Friday, April 10th Noon– 6:00pm

Easter Saturday Saturday, April 11th 9am-Noon

“Sharing the Light and the Love of Our Lord” 3

From the desk of Pastor Andrew

Pastor Andrew

“In the morning, LORD, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait expectantly”

(Psalm 5:3).

I recently read an article that said how we spend the first three hours of each day eventually de-termines the course of our life. That’s probably an overstatement, but is there some truth there too? The temptation? To consume mental or spiritual “junk food” from the get-go – to wake up and immediately reach for our phones. The problem? Researchers point out that in the mornings, our brain waves are in a highly-suggestible “theta alpha” state. If we start the day surfing social media, reading emails, getting stressed by the news, and reviewing our huge to do list, that will reinforce our stressed-out and distractible state through the entire day.

Thankfully, the opposite is true as well: if we begin the day turning to the Lord, feasting on his Word, taking everything to Him in prayer and worship, that too will set the tone for our entire day. The Word of God says, “Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. 2Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things” (Colossians 3:1-2). When we set our hearts and minds on Jesus Christ, we are re-minded that He is with us through whatever challenges we face and that He is mighty to save! It also makes us so much more likely to view the world, the people around us, and our own strug-gles as opportunities to build His kingdom.

Easier said than done? It is! We live in an in-credibly hectic, fast-paced culture. I fight the temptation myself every morning – “I’ll just check my email, the weather, and a quick look at news headlines.” But even that minute or two online does something to my soul – it orients me at the break of day to this world rather than to God’s Kingdom. And then, I have to fight all the harder the rest of the day to “reorient” myself to the presence of the Holy Spirit and God’s greater purposes.

There is something about those quiet morning hours before the hustle and bustle of the day that is so special, when it is just my God and me. It is there upon my knees and in spending time in His word that I find strength for the day, strength to meet the trials and whatever else the day may hold.

This Lenten season, rather than “giving up some-thing,” perhaps it’s time to restructure and repri-oritize our schedule a little bit. Let’s ask our-selves, “what is most important to me?” If it’s the Lord Jesus Christ, let’s give him those precious early morning moments – meeting the Lord in his Word, giving Him your burdens and con-cerns, and taking time to listen to His sweet voice.

Astrid and I would like to say a huge thank you to each and every one of you for blessing us with such a warm welcome to the Olivet family. Many of you have very generously gifted us in ways we could never imagine. Our house is now a home thanks to you and I want you all to know how much that means to me.

Love, Abigail Danielle Hoy


If you are unable to make your scheduled assignment, please find someone to take your place or contact the church office so we can find a sub for you. Please call 783-1484 or email [email protected].

February 29-Mar.1 Sat 5:30pm Sun 8am Sun 10am

Readers: Lynette Dettinger Kim Dearman Carson Nelson

Ushers: Bill & Joanne Thoftne Joel Olson, Vol. Needed Patti Fellenz, Michelle Powell Greeters: Sharon & Mark Hellerud Gina Mikrut, Cynthia Holmes C Marker, C Nelsestuen, E & S Stetzer Communion n/a PA, Marianne Shugrue, n/a

Helpers: Jim Lukas, Vol. Needed Acolyte: Vol. Needed Ryan Nutter Elliott Fortuine

Counters: G. Green, A. Gerken Erna Brauer & Chuck Huth Erica Knerzer, Diane Hanson

Connection Center: Judy Eddy n/a Donna Kretschmer, Sandie Perry

Altar Guild: Sheila Horstman Sharon Hoover Carleen Marker Children's Church: n/a n/a Kaeden & Nathaniel Apuan

Nursery: n/a Penny Becker, Bayle Dearman Penny Becker, Faith Hellerud

Lent I, Wednesday, March 4 @ 6:30 p.m. Reader: Lynette Dettinger Acolyte: Pierce Nelson

Ushers: Ed & Jodie Szewczyk Counters: Paula Betlach & Anne Zeisler Greeters: Tim & Paula Betlach Connection Center: Ernie & Sue Stetzer

Nursery: Kylie Kapelke

March 7-8 Sat 5:30pm Sun 8am Sun 10am

Readers: Judie Doolittle Diana Carey Verdel Dawson

Ushers: P. Christensen, B. Fagan Mike & Diana Carey Mary Jane Belisle, Carol Maier

Greeters: Al & Diane Brague Ron Hoover & Chuck Huth A. Ames, P. Buchner, K & L Anderson

Communion PA, Jean Ann Voss, Pastor Andrew, Erna Brauer, PA, H. Fortuine, B. & P. Barney,

Helpers: Don & Donna Jobe Kim Dearman, Vol. needed V. & C. Dawson, J. Brokaw, A. Ames

Acolyte: Seth Pierce Braden Sanwick Heather Fortuine

Counters: B. Schneider & M. Doolittle E. Brauer & D. Bentzen Pat McHenry & Patty Houser Connection Center: Melanie Wuensch n/a Jackie Dawson & Carol Dawson

Altar Guild: Betty Fagan Vol. Needed Carol Maier

Children’s Church n/a n/a Anna & Elliot Fortuine

Nursery: n/a Cathy Simkins Cathy Simkins & Sophie Sila

Lent lI, Wednesday, March 11 @ 6:30 p.m. Reader: Carson Nelson Acolyte: Reece Groth

Ushers: Mike & Bailey Stalsberg Counters: Lynette Dettinger & Cindy Cossette Greeters: Lucas & Pam Eilertson Connection Center: Stephanie & Kayla Korish

Nursery: Cathy Simkins & Halie Kapelke


Readers: Eugene Johnson Kim Dearman Laurie Duncan

Ushers: Stephanie & Kayla Korish Mike & Janet Stalsberg Scott & Dorothy Payne

Greeters: S.Vanderbush & A. Zeisler Volunteers Needed G & A Wuensch, K Duerwachter, D Hanson

Communion n/a PA, Trish Kapelke, n/a

Helpers: Tricia Gibbons, Jim Lukas

Acolyte: Ruby Ann Pierce Lucas Eilertson Kalista Kapelke

Counters: P. Betlach & A. Zeisler Terry Houlihan & Alice Gerken Nancy Arens & Marci Storey

Connection Center: Marilyn Jones n/a Kathy Fischer

Altar Guild: Alice Gerken Erna Brauer Phyllis Buchner

Children's Church: n/a n/a Victoria Goetting, Faith Hellerud

Nursery: n/a Penny Becker Penny Becker & Leah Waller

Worship Assistants for March


Worship Assistants for March . . . continued

Lent III, Wednesday, March 18 @ 6:30 p.m.

Readers: Jacqui Brokaw Acolyte: Samantha Groth

Ushers: Lisa & Kaia McCormick Counters: Quentin Lamers & Kathy Cuellar

Greeters: Kim & Bayle Dearman Connection Center: Jacqui Brokaw

Nursery: Michele Coady


Readers: Cindy Cossette Tricia Gibbons Claire Seib

Ushers: Byron & Sherry Osterlie Pam Eilertson & Vol. Needed Mary Jane Belisle & Carol Maier

Greeters: Judy Eddy & Marilyn Jones Gary & Marsha Vance H. Fortuine, S. & P. Knudsen Communion PA, Trish Kapelke, PA, Trish Kapelke, PA, S. Gilbertson, D. Harrington, Helpers: Cindy Cossette, Vol needed Carol Brown, Donna Bentzen L. Hawkins, D & D Jobe, C & S LeCleir

Acolyte: Macy Tilson Olivia Teff Reece Groth Counters: L. Dettinger & C. Cossette Sharon Hoover & Chuck Huth Carol Barney & Betty Thiele

Connection Center: Melanie Wuensch n/a Lisa & Kaia McCormick

Altar Guild: Sheila Horstman Jane Binnebose Brandon Ferris

Children's Church: n/a n/a Lydia Houge & Kayla Korish

Nursery: n/a Michelle Coady & Olivia Teff Pam Groth & Samantha Groth

Lent IV, Wednesday, March 25 @ 6:30 p.m.

Reader: Kevin Josephson Acolyte: Richie Kapelke

Ushers: Lloyd Holthaus & Dirk Olson Counters: Diane Hanson & Erica Knerzer Greeters: A. Polender, MJ Sanchez Connection Center: Kathy Fischer Nursery: Kylie Kapelke


Readers: Melanie Wuensch Brian Liethen Sandy LeCleir

Ushers: Bill & Joanne Thoftne D. Bentzen & Barb Dearman Patti Fellenz & Michelle Powell Greeters: Bruce & Kathy Vongroven Brian & Linda Liethen Ernie & Sue Stetzer, Carol & Jim Thiele

Communion n/a PA, Tricia Gibbons, n/a

Helpers: Brian & Linda Liethen

Acolyte: Stan Bell Gabbi Zeeb Jimmy Culbert

Counters: Q. Lamers & Kathy Cuellar Erna Brauer & Donna Bentzen Carleen Marker & Alice Gerken

Connection Center: Marilyn Jones n/a Sandie Perry & Mary Jo Sanchez

Altar Guild: Kathy Vongroven Linda Liethen Heather Fortuine

Children's Church: n/a n/a Kaeden & Nathaniel Apuan

Nursery: n/a Penny Becker & Olivia Teff Penny Becker & Aryiah Wing

Lent V, Wednesday, April 1 @ 6:30 p.m.

Reader: Carla Swerman Acolyte: Kalista Kapelke

Ushers: Byron & Sherry Osterlie Counters: Nancy Arens & Marci Storey

Greeters: Agneta Ames & Barb Wilder Connection Center: Jacqui Brokaw

Nursery: Cathy Simkins & Samantha Groth


Church Contacts/E-mail Addresses

Ministers…………………………………...... ….. All Members of Olivet Beacon of Light Lutheran Church

Pastor………………………………………………. Rev. David J. Baldukas……………. [email protected]

Pastor………………………………………...……. Rev. Andrew Fortuine……………… [email protected]

Director of Family Ministry......……...….. Trish Kapelke……………………….... [email protected]

Worship Arts Director……………………….. Abigail Hoy……………………………. [email protected]

Church Administrator…………………...….. Dorothy Payne……………………..… [email protected]

Office Assistant….……………....…………….. Linda Cowing……………………..... [email protected]

Weekend Office Support.……………...…… Alice Gerken……….…………...……. [email protected]

AV & Tech Support……………………………. Jim Kapelke…………………………… [email protected]

MOPS Leader…………………………………... Kelly Remus……………………….…. [email protected]

Children’s Church Coordinator.……...…. Melanie Wuensch……………..……. [email protected]

Librarian…………………………………...…….. Carla Swerman………………….…… [email protected]

Custodians…………………………………...….. Brie Murdock and Jim & Carol Thiele

Maintenance……………………………...…….. Kevin Caulum

Olivet Beacon of Light Lutheran Church

2100 Bainbridge Street, La Crosse, Wisconsin 54603 Church Office 608-783-1484

E-mail: [email protected] Web site: www.OlivetLutheran.org

Pastor Dave Cell: 792-1120 Pastor Andrew Home: 406-4885 Cell: 769-8613

Office Hours:

Monday—Friday 8:00am—4:00pm

Sunday 8:00am—noon

Board & Meeting News

The first meeting of the 2020 Vision Board was held on February 11. Phillip Wanke was voted in as Board President. Remaining officers will remain the same for the coming year. Minutes from the January 28 board meeting were approved and are posted at church for your review. Minutes are not published on our website, but are available by email, upon request, if you are unable to view them at church. Due to a scheduling conflict, the March board meeting will be held on Tuesday, March 3, at 5:30 p.m.

If at any time you have questions or need clarification, we encourage you to contact one of our Board members or a staff member and we would be happy to speak with you.

Roles and Responsibilities of the Vision Board - To make spiritually discerning governance and policy decisions in the key areas of People, Policies, Strategy and Long-Range Planning, Legal and Financial Due Diligence and to model Generous Living.

Members of the Vision Board:

➢ Miles Harter - Vice President - [email protected] - 608.792.3926 ➢ Kevin Josephson - [email protected] - 608.783.6321 ➢ Steve Kemp - [email protected] ➢ Cliff LeCleir - [email protected] - 608.786-2173 ➢ Terry Miller - Treasurer - [email protected] ➢ Jan Pearson - [email protected] ➢ Carla Swerman - Secretary - [email protected] ➢ Phillip Wanke - President—[email protected] ➢ Pastor Dave ➢ Pastor Andrew ➢ Dorothy Payne—Staff Member ➢ Trish Kapelke—Staff Member


~ March 2020 ~ Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat

1 8a Traditional Worship/HC 8:30a CrossRoads Bible

Fellowship 8:30a Gospel of John Study 9:05a Confirmation Class 10a Children's Church 10a Contemporary Worship 10:15a Fourth & Fifth Class 11:15a Thessalonians Study 11:30a Chris Crye.Seminar 2p Gospel Choir Rehearsal 5:15p ACA Meeting

2 5p MONDAY

MEALS 6p Stephen

Ministry

Continuing

Education 6p Prayer

Gathering

3

7a Women's Bible Breakfast 8a Women's Prayer Group 9a Staff Meeting 9:15a Bible Study - Twelve Ordinary Men 10:30a Prayer Circle 5:30p Vision Board Mtg. 7p AA Meeting 7p Bible Study – Ten Men of the Bible

4

10a Life Group Bible Study 5p Evangelism Team 5:15p Soup & Sandwich Supper 5:15p Youth Bible Study 5:30p Women's AA 6:30p Lenten Service

5

1p GriefShare 4p Stephen Ministry Leaders' Meeting 6p Coast Guard Auxiliary Meeting 6:30p Meeting God In Scripture & Prayer

6 LCMC Youth

Retreat 6:30a Men's Bible Study & Breakfast 7:30a Men's Prayer Group

7 LCMC Youth

Retreat

5:30p Blended Worship/Communion/ Chitwood Baptism

8 Daylight Saving Begins -

LCMC Youth Retreat 8a Traditional Worship/HC 8:30a CrossRoads Bible Fellowship 8:30a Gospel of John Study 9a Hospitality Team Meeting 9:05a Confirmation Class 10a Children's Church 10a Contemporary Worship/HC/Harter Baptism 10:15a Fourth & Fifth Class 11:15a Thessalonians Study 2p Gospel Choir Rehearsal 5:15p ACA Meeting

9

6p Prayer Gathering

10

7a Women's Bible Breakfast 8a Women's Prayer Group 9a Staff Meeting 9:15a Bible Study - Twelve Ordinary Men 10:30a Prayer Circle 6p Eagle Scouts 7p AA Meeting 7p Bible Study – Ten Men of the Bible

11

10a Life Group Bible Study 5:15p Soup & Sandwich Supper 5:15p Youth Bible Study 5:30p Women's AA 6:30p Lenten Service

12

11:30a Young at Heart Lunch 1p GriefShare 6p Coulee Region Gospel Choir Rehearsal 7:30p MOPS/MOMSnext (off-site)

13

6:30a Men's Bible Study & Breakfast 7:30a Men's Prayer Group

14

5:30p Blended Worship

15

8a Traditional Worship/HC 8:30a CrossRoads Bible Fellowship 8:30a Gospel of John Study 9:05a Confirmation Class 10a Children's Church 10a Contemporary Worship 10:15a Fourth & Fifth Class 11:15a Thessalonians Study 3p Coulee Region Gospel Choir Concert 5:15p ACA Meeting

16

MONTHLY BEACON DEADLINE 10a Bible Books 6p Stephen Ministry Continuing Education 6p Prayer Gathering

17

7a Women's Bible Breakfast 8a Women's Prayer Group 9a Staff Meeting 9:15a Bible Study - Twelve Ordinary Men 10:30a Prayer Circle 7p AA Meeting 7p Bible Study – Ten Men of the Bible

18

10a Life Group Bible Study 5p Boy Scouts Executive Committee Meeting 5:15p Soup & Sandwich Supper 5:15p Youth Bible Study 5:30p Women's AA 6:30p Lenten Service

19

10a LCMC Ministerium 1p GriefShare 4p Stephen Ministry Leaders' Meeting 6:30p Meeting God In Scripture & Prayer

20


21

11a Wittenberg Memorial Service 5:30p Blended Worship/ Communion

22

8a Traditional Worship/HC 8:30a CrossRoads Bible Fellowship 8:30a Gospel of John Study 9:05a Confirmation Class 10a Children's Church 10a Contemporary Worship/HC/Joseph Baptism 10:15a Fourth & Fifth Class 11:15a Thessalonians Study 1p Prayer Shawl Meeting 5:15p ACA Meeting 7p MOPS/MOMSNext

23

6p Prayer Gathering

24

7a Women's Bible Breakfast 8a Women's Prayer Group 9:15a Bible Study - Twelve Ordinary Men

10:30a Staff Meeting 10:30a Prayer Circle 7p AA Meeting 7p Bible Study – Ten Men of the Bible

25

10a Life Group Bible Study 5:15p Soup & Sandwich Supper 5:15p Youth Bible Study 5:30p Women's AA 6:30p Lenten Service

26

1p GriefShare

27


28

Boy Scout Pinewood Derby 5:30p Blended Worship

29

8a Traditional Worship/HC 8:30a CrossRoads Bible Fellowship 8:30a Gospel of John Study 9:05a Confirmation Class 10a Children's Church 10a Contemporary Worship/Olsen Baptism 10:15a Fourth & Fifth Class 11:15a Thessalonians Study 11:30a Worship Team Mtg. 5:15p ACA Meeting

30

6p Prayer Gathering

31

7a Women's Bible Breakfast 8a Women's Prayer Group 9a Staff Meeting 9:15a Bible Study - Twelve Ordinary Men 10:30a Prayer Circle 7p AA Meeting 7p Bible Study – Ten Men of the Bible

Notes:


The Coulee Region Gospel Choir announces its Spring Concert schedule. The choir will be presenting "Evidence of Grace" by Steve Moore and David T. Clydesdale. All concerts are on Sundays and begin at 3:00 pm.

March 8th - First Presbyterian Church, 233 West Avenue S, La Crosse

March 15th - Olivet Lutheran Church, 2100 Bainbridge St, La Crosse

March 22nd - La Crescent United Methodist Church, 520 N. Elm Street, La Crescent

March 29th - Zion Lutheran Church, 20335 W. Gale Street, Galesville

Does the world understand grace? In the dark times, and in the good times, God's grace surrounds us like the air we breathe. When times are tough, we can discover God's grace beyond pain as a beacon of light in strength, hope and peace. Yet every day the greatest evidence of grace is simply God's forgiveness, and we can feel this grace in the wonder and peace of knowing the Lord.

Coulee Region Gospel Choir Spring Concert

Evangelism Team

Olivet’s Individual P.A.C.K.’s

Sharing God’s LOVE through Christian Kindness

Hopefully you’ve noticed at the welcome desk, in the fellowship hall, and at the information wall – a posting with suggestions of Planned Acts of Christian Kindness. We (the evangelism team) suggest everyone do a PACK once a month for a year. We have provided suggestions, some an act of love and service, some require a small cost – or think of your own.

We ask you to (anonymously) tell us your completed PACK, with date serviced. There is an envelope attached to the posting to place your PACK’s in.

During the month of January 2 PACKS were recorded:

January 4 - someone helped a couple who misplaced their car keys. They took them home to get the extra set.

January 15 - Someone treated their 4 co-workers to lunch.

Acts18.org is a website of ideas for random acts of kindness. Check out their website and their Facebook page for ideas.

Thank you for serving God by bringing a smile to all His people.

—Melanie Wuensch

Evangelism Team


Welcome to LOAFERS 2020… where the vision for catching more fish is clear!

Even though I have lived in victo-ry (spiritually) for some time, moving to Victory (physically) has created logistic challenges for coordinating fishing evenings and weekends with the LOAFERS, so this new decade marks a new era in the fishing fellowship – instead of trying to coordinate all fishermen to a common location and time, these details will be left up to the fishermen interested in spending time on the water with another. For those that prefer to fish weekends, I will help make connections with others that prefer to fish weekends; for those that would rather fish weekdays or evenings, I will help make connections with fishermen having similar prefer-ences as well. Besides times and locations, any desires for specific pursuits (bass, walleye, catfish, etc.) will likewise be paired to help men bond in fellowship. To further help in future endeavors, I will try to pass on my knowledge of current patterns as the open water season passes (although it will primarily be bass fo-cused).

The LOAFERS group was founded for the purposes of expanding fishing and fellowship opportunities for men while reducing life’s burdens through the same, and I intend to keep these as the keystone tenets. Although I can’t speak for others’ availability, I know that some of the LOAFERS don’t fish as much as they would choose simply because they don’t like going alone. Since our love for fishing is well established, all that is needed for increasing time on the water is a connection to the group and a little resolve to make it happen.

As for me, I hope to fish at least twice a week – once on Saturdays and once (or twice) during the week. My goal is to divide my time proportionally among the demand (regardless of location), but my boat, for the most part, will stay on my new home waters (south of Genoa). This means those that without boats can connect with me (as availability dictates) to fish on pool 9, and those with boats, wanting to fish locally, can connect with me to head up for fishing Saturdays. I will try to guard against monopolization of my time/service; yet in the absence of conflicting requests, I have no problem fishing multiple times in a row with the same person/group.

If you are new to the LOAFERS, feel free to call, text, email, or talk to me in person (whether at church or else-where) to make a connection to our fishing fellowship… and just in case you might need a little more “bait” to join, the LOAFERS have fished eight years without a skunk!

Dave Mikrut — [email protected]

Church Office/Communications Position - We are sorry to announce that Linda Cowing, Office Administrative Assistant, has resigned from her position at Olivet. We are thankful for her service to Olivet and wish her God’s blessings as she moves on.

During the next several weeks we will be evaluating this position to determine our current needs. We do not anticipate making any decisions until after Easter. The church office will remain staffed Monday through Friday, 8am to 4pm, and on Sunday mornings from 8am to 1pm, as usual. Emails may be sent to [email protected], or to [email protected].

Young at Heart - Potluck Lunch Corned Beef & Cabbage!

Thursday, March 12 - 11:30 a.m.

Come for good food, good conversation and fellowship. Penny will be making corned beef & cabbage, potatoes and carrots. Please sign up at the Connection Center to bring a side dish to pass and to let us know if you are coming!

Anyone age 55 and over is invited to attend. Reach out to someone who may enjoy sharing a meal and conversation with others!


Our Children’s Church program will be tackling “The Life of Jesus” unit for our Lenten series. We will be looking at several key points in Jesus’ life and ministry.

The main point of the entire unit is that we can all follow Jesus’ example and live like He did. The memory verse for this unit is from John 14:6, “Jesus told him, ‘I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.’”

Important Dates for Children and Youth:

March 4

Youth Small Group @ 5:15pm

March 6-8

Catch the Wave Retreat

March 8

Daylight Savings Time

NO second Sunday (CTW)

March 11


Youth leading/helping in worship

March 15

First draft of Confirmation Faith Statement is due

March 18

Youth is Hosting Soup and Sand-wich meal @ 5pm

March 25


April 1


April 4

First Communion Class

April 5

Children sing in weekend services

The 4th and 5th grade students continue to work their way through the top 50 Bible Truths of the Old Testament. During the month of March they will be looking at:

Ruth Samuel King Saul

David (two different adventures)

These Old Testament Bible Truths help us each to see how amazing and loving our God truly is. If we follow His ways, there is always a perfect plan to help us live our BEST life.

Just as parents are an integral part of a child’s life as they learn a sport or an instrument, parents play a very important role in a child’s faith development. We at Olivet, are truly excited about walking this journey with you. Your influence as a parent is un-deniable and you truly are the first teacher when it comes to your child’s faith.

I hope you have had the opportunity to pick up this year’s Lenten family devotional, Treasure in Jars of Clay. They are available in the church lobby and at Children’s Church if you have not been able to pick one up.

This devotional is a great tool to use with your family each night of the Lenten season. Each devotion gives your family an opportunity to place an item related to the evenings focus in a jar. It is not just a devotion, but it gives each family something to think about and act on each day.

I know that our family does not have a clay jar and will not be able to have family devotions at home each day, but we are going to use a glass vase and have family devotions as often as we can. I hope that your family will be joining us each day that you can in your own home. You certainly don’t need a clay jar, you can use almost anything, even a shoebox would work great. Whatever you choose to use, I pray that that these devotions would bless your family and help you as you reflect on Christ’s love this Lenten season.


How does four days (July 9-12) of three stages of live music, a variety of outdoor activities, camping, and serving others sound? What if I said it would cost you around $55, including transporta-tion and food?

Once again this year Olivet will be taking a group to Lifest in Osh-kosh, WI. This will be a service event for us. Each attendee over 12 will be asked to serve for about 10 hours over the 4 day week-end. However, along with this great opportunity to serve is an incredible event where students, adults and families can grow in their faith, meet others from around the state and hear some amazing Christian music by nationally acclaimed artists.

Lifest has the tagline “A Party With A Purpose,” and that is exact-ly what it is! I hope you will join us for this event.

Please contact Mrs. K at [email protected] if you have any questions. Or, check out the Lifest web-site at lifest.com. The website lists the main artists scheduled thus far and answers many of the basic questions. This is a great event for the whole family! However, the great $55 deal is only available if you attend with Olivet.

Sign-up Today! Beat the April 1st initial registration deadline!

The High School and Middle School small groups will be meeting on Wednesday nights for Bible Study each week before the Lenten services. (5:15-6:20pm)

We will be starting our time at 5:15m, pausing briefly at the beginning to get our Soup and Sandwiches but returning to the Gathering Space to complete our small groups while we eat our dinner.

It is our hope that all of the Youth will be able to join us for this time of connecting with each other and the Word.

First Communion Class At Olivet, we believe children are among the greatest of all God’s blessings. The greatest gift we can pass along to our children is teaching them of God’s love and salvation in order that they too experience new life in Christ.

Olivet is here to assist you with the Christian education of your child. A very important part of that process is learning about and participating in the Lord’s Supper. On Saturday, April 4th from 9 to 11 a.m. we will be offering our annual First Communion Class in the Celebration Chapel.

This class is open to students from 3rd grade on up. It’s also open to younger children if you feel they are ready to understand what communion is all about. If your child has not already completed his/her First Communion Class, we invite you to enroll them in the April 4th class. For planning purposes, we do request pre-registration. Each child is asked to bring a parent or grandparent with them to attend this session with their child or grandchild. Students who complete their First Communion instruction on April 4th will receive their First Communion on Thursday, April 9th at our Maundy Thursday worship service at 6:30 p.m. What a joyful celebration!

Contact the church office or email Mrs. K at [email protected] to register today.


Women’s Clothes Closet Now Accepting Spring & Summer Items

The Women’s Clothes Closet is always in need of gently used in-season clothing that is fashionable, clean and in good repair. They are currently accept-ing spring and summer clothing items.

Bras (new), shoes, handbags, scarves and jewelry are always appreciated.

The mission of the Women’s Clothes Closet is to provide gently used clothing to low-income women, especially those who are entering or are in the work-force.

Your donated items can be placed in the large barrel located outside the Fellowship Hall doors.

FOOD PANTRY DONATIONS

Suggested items for the month:

Canned Fruit or Juice

Non-perishable food items and personal items can be put in our pantry cupboard located in the collection area near the Fellowship Hall. Items collected are given to walk-ins to Olivet or are taken to one of our local food pantries.

Thank you for your generous donations!

Find help and healing for the hurt

of separation and divorce DivorceCare is a friendly, caring group of people who will walk alongside you through one of life’s most diffi-cult experiences. Don’t go through separation or di-vorce alone.

DivorceCare will be offered Thursday evenings, 6:30-8:30 p.m., beginning April 16 through July 9.

More information will be available later this month.

DIVORCECare

Olivet’s Card Ministry

[email protected]

Olivet’s Card Ministry sends out cards throughout the year to our shut-ins, those who may be ill or recovering from illness or surgery, or just someone they know could use a pick-me-up.

We have made it easier for you to let us know if a friend or family member would enjoy receiving a card. Just send an email with your friend or family member’s name, address and an idea of what type of card would be appropriate—get well, thinking of you, holiday card, etc.

The Card Ministry team can always use donations of cards or stamps. If you have extras you would like to donate, put them in the Card Min-istry mailbox in the hallway just past the office. Help spread some cheer!


WHAT IS LENT? To Christians, first, it is a time for reflection and repentance; then of joy that Jesus Christ conquered death to save us all from our sins and is waiting for us in Heaven! Because of Jesus we are free and live victoriously! Praise to our Savior!

I found the following three prayers at christianity.com and would like to share them with you.

Lord, Holy One, have mercy on us. We confess our sins to you. We have fallen short of your glory and without your mercy and grace, we would be dust. We repent now. Lord, as we enter into this Lenten sea-son be near to us. Help us, by your Holy Spirit, to feel right conviction and repentance for our sin. Help us, by your Spirit, to have the strength to overcome the enemy.

Thank you, Lord, that Easter is coming! Death has no sting, no victory, because of Jesus! Glory and hon-or and praise to His name! Thank you for rescuing us. Help us keep both the weight and the joy of this season in our hearts as we move through the next several weeks. Help us bear the good fruit of your Spirit.

Thank you that the ashes on our forehead do not symbolize our ultimate reality. From dust we might have been formed, but our bodies, our spirits, ourselves, await beautiful redemption and the restoration of all things. Help us long and look forward to that day, and let it come quickly, Lord Jesus. Amen.

********************************************************************************

I would like to introduce to you, a new Stephen Minister, Al Blencoe.

Al and his wife, Kathy, recently became members of Olivet. Al was a trained, active Stephen Minister at his previous church. He approached our Stephen Leaders with the request to be part of Olivet’s Stephen Ministry. Al was interviewed, and it was found that his training was current. Al has a strong desire, and the heart, to help others. Al was invited to become part of Olivet’s Stephen Ministry and was commissioned by our congregation in February.

The Stephen Leaders would like to ask you to welcome Al and Kathy to our family at Olivet!

About Alan (Al) Blencoe and wife Kathy: “We are relatively new to Olivet. Having met through professional connections, we married in 2004 in Oshkosh at Kathy’s church and she came to

my side of the state to live in Holmen. One of our first decisions as a couple was to become more involved in “church” and growing in our faith. Today, as a new Mission Partner and with Stephen Minister experience in a previous church, I feel Stephen Ministry is an area where I can become quickly involved to serve. Both of us are exploring additional ways to become involved with our new church family. We look forward to discovering what the future will bring for us in our new faith community home.”


Recovery & Support Groups Hosted at Olivet

PRAY * STUDY * SUPPORT

Tuesdays:

Co-ed AA group meeting @ 7:00 p.m.

Wednesdays:

Women’s AA group meeting @ 5:30 p.m.

Sundays:

Adult Children of Alcoholics @ 6:00 p.m.

Prayer Gathering Mondays 6:00 p.m.

Women’s Prayer Group Tuesdays 8:00 a.m.

Revival Prayer Circle Tuesdays 10:30 a.m.

Men’s Prayer Group Fridays 7:30 a.m.

Prayer Shawl Group Sundays (Monthly) 1:00 p.m.

PRAYER

GROUPS CrossRoads Bible Fellowship Sundays 8:30 a.m.

Gospel of John Bible Study Sundays 8:30 a.m.

Thessalonians Bible Study Sundays 11:15 a.m.

Women’s Breakfast Life Group Tuesdays 7:00 a.m.

Twelve Ordinary Men Bible Study Tuesdays 9:15 a.m.

Ten Men of the Bible — Study Tuesdays 7:00 p.m.

Wednesday Life Group Wednesdays 10:00 a.m.

Meeting God in Scripture & Prayer Thursdays (1st & 3rd) 6:30 p.m.

Men’s Breakfast Life Group Fridays 6:30 a.m.

BIBLE STUDIES

& LIFE

GROUPS Life Groups study the weekend message topic.

You are welcome to drop in to a group any time. For more information or to start a new group,

please contact the office at 783-1484 or [email protected].

Prayer Gathering Meets on Monday Evenings - Prayer is not based on the words spoken, it’s about lifting our hearts to God who can be trusted. It’s not about religious sounding phrases, since tears and groans often receive the strongest responses. Hebrews 5:7 tells us while Jesus was here on earth, he offered prayers and pleadings, with a loud cry and tears, to the one who could rescue him from death. And God heard his prayers because of his deep reverence for God.

We welcome all who feel led to join us. We meet in the Fireside Lounge from 6-7 p.m. on Mondays to pray for the prayer concerns of our faith community here at Olivet. This includes your prayer requests at the weekend services that you write on the Connection Cards found in the pew racks, as well as any prayer requests that come in through the office, by your permission.

Colossians 4:2—“Don’t be weary in prayer, keep at it; watch for God’s answers and remember to be thankful when they come.”

When God answers your prayers, please let us know so we can join you in giving God all the glory. Thank you.


Our next co-ed study for the Tuesday evening group, will be “Ten Men of the Bible—How God Used Imperfect People to Change the World” written by Max Lucado.

These are men from both the Old and New Testaments. We discover the hopes and struggles in their unfolding stories. What set these men apart, and how do we relate to them in our everyday lives? They each have a fas-cinating story to tell that brings meaning to God’s will for all of us.

This new exciting study will begin March 3rd in the Joy Room at Olivet at 7:00 p.m. We welcome new people seeking a friendly group—no previous experience in Bible Study necessary. The cost for materials is $10.00.

For information call Sandie Perry at 608 269-2774 or 608 797-6874.

Christian Music Stations

89.3 Sparta www.klove.com

91.9 La Crescent www.praisefm.org

93.7 La Crosse www.prayznetwork.com

97.9 La Crosse Pandora—Christian and Gospel

103.9 Westby Amazon—Praise and Worship

Tuesday Evening Bible Study Begins New Topic on March 3

What is . . . Cross Roads Bible Fellowship? It is a Sunday morning group that:

•Prays for one another •Sings together •Gets to know each others needs & really care for each other •Desires to understand how to live a more fulfilled life •Finds meaning out of book studies & various topical studies •Make fun of Cliff (our favorite past-time) •We meet on Sunday morning in the Journey Room •And we have delicious treats and coffee

We would love it if you would join us!

Give Cliff a call at 786-2173; email [email protected]; or just walk in. We promise not to bite!

Sunday Mornings at 8:30 a.m. in the Journey Room

Cross Roads


Communion served: 2nd and 4th weekends

of each month and

every Sunday at 8:00am

All are welcome to receive communion at Olivet.

Communion is served by intinction (dipping of the wafer into the grape juice). Gluten-free wafers and individual servings of grape juice are also available.

Hospital Visits

Due to HIPPA privacy laws and changes at our local hospitals, we are unable to verify your stay at the hospital, even if you list Olivet as your church.

If you or a family member are hospitalized, please call or have a friend or family member call the church office at 783-1484 to let us know of your hospitalization and your room number so we can provide pastoral care.

Caller : Donna Kretschmer

Kitchen lead: Terry Houlihan

Provide dessert: Mary Jane Belisle, Faye Bright, Marlene Froegel, Sharon Hellerud, Tammy Hyttinen, Jan Kehr, Jody King, Donna Kretschmer, Linda Liethen, Marge Marshall, May Moe

Serving & Cleanup: Mary Jane Belisle, Marlene Froegel, Terry Houlihan, Tammy Hyttinen, Donna Kretschmer, Marge Marshall, May Moe

Please call Ann Wuensch at 781-2107 if you are no longer able to serve and want to have your name removed from the list, or if you would like to be added to a list for future months.

Thank you for volunteering for this service to others.

Funeral Team

for March

Memorials

In Memory of Ralph Koglin (for mortgage reduction)

Jim & Karen Rausch

In Memory of Gary Larson (for mortgage reduction)

Ladies Bible Breakfast

In Memory of Dorothy Nolte (for food pantry)

La Crosse MTU Employee Fund

And he took bread, and gave thanks and broke it and gave it to them saying “This is My body which

is given for you: this do in remembrance of me.” Likewise, he also took the cup after supper, saying,

“This cup is the new testament in My blood, which is shed for you.”

Luke 22:19-20


Information Centers at Olivet . . . and what you can find there!

Olivet’s Ministry Center is where you will find information on church ministries and events. There is information on our current small group & Bible study offerings, opportunities for prayer, newsletters from area ministries that we support and thank you cards received. Also posted in this area are the approved minutes from church meetings. We will also post items that people are giving away or may be in need of, as well as job opportunities that are brought to our attention.

***We have moved volunteer & event signups to this area as well to relieve the congestion at the Connec-tion Center. So you will now find the clipboards for Young @ Heart, Monday Meals, social events, and other volunteer opportunities at the Ministry Center.

The Connection Center is located in the church lobby and is staffed before and after worship services. Here is where our visitors can pick up a welcome packet and get more information about our church. Also located here are monthly

devotional and prayer books, weekly Life Group bible stud-ies, church informational brochures and other evangelism materials. If you encounter a new guest or visitor, please welcome them and walk them over the Connection Center for some helpful materials or information.

We invite you to visit these areas and check out what each has to offer. If you are not able to find something you are looking for, please ask any of our church staff or volunteers who would be happy to help you. If you would like some-thing posted or displayed in one of these areas, please check in with the church office so we can assist.

The Community Board is located between the front entrance and the coat room. Here is where we post events of interest in our broader community. It may be a spe-cial concert, a guest speaker, a bake sale, chicken que or a service opportunity in the Coulee Region. There are also brochures for Living Waters Bible Camp, and for several social service agen-cies in the area.

Across from the Nursery, you will find information on Olivet’s Stephen Ministry, as well as a display of free CareNotes on a variety of topics.

The Family Ministry Center is located right before you get to the Gathering Space and the Celebration Chapel. Here is where you can get information on upcoming children, youth and family events, registration forms, scholarship forms and CareNotes on topics relevant to our middle and high school youth.


March Worship Attendance and Offering

A Variety of Ways to Give

Each of us is called to worship God with our entire life, including our time, talents and resources. For many, giving is a way of life. “Remember the Lord your God, for it is He who gives you power to get wealth.” Deuter-onomy 8:18. Sharing our resources is a good way to worship the Giver of all good things. You may make your tax-deductible gifts to the ministries in and through Olivet in a variety of forms:

Give by cash or check.

Give one-time or recurring gifts online through the link on our webpage under the Giving tab.

Set up automated giving from your checking or savings account or credit/debit card by filling out a Simply Giving form and returning it to the church office.

Use our giving app: GivePlus Church, available for download from the App Store or Google Play.

Give by text to 608-467-5654.

Don’t like to have the collection plate pass you by? Stop by the Usher Stand on your way into worship and pick up a pink chip which indicates that you use electronic giving and drop in the plate.

Date Attendance Automatic Giving

Saturday, February 1 93 General $5,365.00 January 27 through February 21

Sun., February 2 8am 65 Mort/Prin $795.00 General $14,425.00

Sun., February 2 10am 165 Designated $333.89 Mortgage $4,710.00

Children's Church 20 Designated $800.00

Total 343 TOTAL: $6,493.89 Total: $19,935.00

Above totals not included in figures to the left

Saturday, February 8 126 General $5,200.00

Sun., February 9 8am 29 Mort/Prin $970.00 Beginning Loan Balance: $1,479,932.22

Sun., February 9 10am 51 Designated $462.00 (October 2017)

Children's Church 3 February Principal Paid $4,401.07

Total 209 TOTAL: $6,632.00 February Interest Paid $2,652.93

Total Principal Paid $674,181.10

Saturday, February 15 93 General $6,670.00 Total Interest Paid $101,459.90

Sun., February 16 8am 73 Mort/Prin $1,135.00

Sun., February 16 10am 212 Designated $928.00 Mortgage Balance

Children's Church 26 As of 2/25/20: $805,751.12

Totals 404 TOTAL: $8,733.00

Saturday, February 22 94 General $5,892.00

Sun., February 23 8am 72 Mort/Prin $1,855.00

Sun., February 23 10am 175 Designated $654.00

Children's Church 30

Totals 371 TOTAL: $8,401.00

Thank you for your ongoing support to the vision and

mission of Olivet!


“The LORD God said, "It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him."

Genesis 2:18

BIRTHDAYS

3/1 Holly Zeeb, Brianna Burmeister 3/3 Sherry Osterlie 3/4 Anthony Apuan, Landyn Anderson-Mertz 3/6 Faye Bright, Dennis Ryan, Michael Bakalars, Kelly Raymer, Phil La Fond, Ashley Dawson, Eva Wood 3/7 Don Lake 3/8 Tammy Hyttinen, Chelsey Pember 3/9 Liam O’Keefe 3/10 Luke Raymer, Reece Groth 3/11 Luna Barney 3/12 Janet Winjum-Miller, Philip Johnson, Kim Dearman 3/13 Edye Eklov, Jessie Adamson, Jake Tilson 3/14 Rachael Pierce, Jacob Burch 3/15 Ed Szewczyk, Christopher Ackerman, Jared Stuhr 3/16 Byron Osterlie, Alice Polender 3/17 Marge Storlie, Chad Powell, Lindsey Joseph, Christian Barney, Sydney Kiefer, Taylor Herold 3/18 Jamie Bottcher, Aaliyah Cox-Bey 3/19 Gary Kosen, Patti Barney, Trenton Rotering, Emelia Remus 3/20 Sandy Bivens, Mat Butzler, Brody Wessel 3/23 Tyler Prokes, Hudson Pierce 3/25 Ellen Mason 3/26 Raymond Wegner, Kimberly Barney 3/27 Jean Ann Voss, KC Pavel, Larry Becker 3/28 Jackie Dawson, Dylan Richards 3/29 Phyllis Christensen, Carol Dawson, Marilyn Gellersen, Nick Tilson 3/30 Effie Piper, Larry LaFleur, Sarah Harter, Andrew Ackerman 3/31 Carol Prise, Steve Plopper

Happy Birthday!

"This is the day the Lord has made;

Let us rejoice and be glad in it." Psalm 118:24

ANNIVERSARIES

3/1 Randy and Pati Jacobson Jeff and Kamille Tilson 3/16 Ivan and Barb Lutz 3/20 Larry and Audrey Johnson Bruce and Kathy Vongroven 3/21 Jim and Diane Hanson 3/24 Jim and Judy Larson 3/26 Jim & Trish Kapelke 3/31 Justin and JoAnn Adams

Loop System Available in the Sanctuary & the Journey Room

Olivet has a loop system in the Journey Room, as well as in the main Sanctuary. You will benefit from this if you wear a hearing aid with the T-coil feature.

If your group meets in the Journey Room, be sure to tell the class leader that you would like to have the unit turned on during the class.

Altar Flowers The 2020 flower chart has been posted in the Narthex. If you would like flowers placed at the alter in memory or honor of a loved one, please sign up for the appropriate week-end, fill out an order blank and turn it in to the office. The flowers are ordered

from Cottage Garden Floral at a charge of $25.00 per bouquet.

If you would rather provide your own flowers, please notify the church office that you will be bringing them in.

Non-Profit Organization

U.S. Postage Paid

La Crosse, WI 54603

Permit No. 521

Address Service Requested

Olivet Beacon of Light Lutheran Church 2100 Bainbridge Street La Crosse, Wisconsin 54603 Pastors David Baldukas & Andrew Fortuine

Every weekend at Olivet we have a B.Y.O.B. party at our worship services.

We encourage you to Bring Your Own Bible to worship and Bible studies.

Worship Service Times:

Saturday @ 5:30 pm

Blended Worship

Sunday @ 8:00 am

Traditional Worship

Sunday @ 10:00 am

Contemporary Worship

Children’s Church @ 10:00 am

From the Pastor 3

Worship Assistants 4-5

March Calendar 7

Family Ministry 10-11

Attendance & Finances 18

The Church Basement Ladies are Back!

In this installment of The Church Base-ment Ladies series, the year is 1960 and a reformation is underway. Beverly gets her first pair of high heels for confirmation. Mrs. Snustad wins top honors at the County Fair for her Grand Champion pickles. Mavis must find a way to deal with the new Super Highway that cuts through her farm. Karin finds freedom behind the wheel of her husband’s pickup truck. And Pastor has found new love and announces his impending nuptials. Against the changing tide, these “bulwarks never failing” stand strong in their faith and in their friendships with more crazy antics, more great songs, and more les-sons reluctantly learned.

Join us for another Olivet Bus Trip to the Fireside Theater in Fort Atkinson!

Thursday, May 28—sign up by March 28

Leave Olivet at 7:15 a.m. and return around 7 p.m.

Cost: $100 (for show, lunch & bus)

Open to anyone — invite your friends & family!

olivet monthly beacon · god’s kingdom. and then, i have to fight all the harder the rest of the...

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