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SALEM CONNECTION December 2016

Salem Lutheran Church 21276 Archibald Road PO Box 100 Deerwood MN 56444

Phone: 218-534-3309 Email: office@salemdwd.org Website: www.salemdwd.org

From Pastor Mike

“Be patient, therefore, beloved, until the coming of

the Lord. The farmer waits for the precious crop

from the earth, being patient with it until it receives

the early and the late rains. You also must be

patient…” - James 5:7-8a

“Instant Getification” - Ask.com

Advent - these 4 weeks before Christmas – is the

opposite of everything we expect in our world.

What could be more counter-cultural than a season

of waiting?

Apparently our Lord thinks there is something good

to be found in waiting. I for one have not found it

yet, but it’s all over the Bible. Abraham & Sarah

have to wait for a son. Joseph has to wait in Egypt.

The Hebrews have to wait and wander in the

wilderness. David has to wait for his son to build a

temple. The prophets have to wait for the day of the

Lord to come. The Israelites exiled in Babylon have

to wait to return to their homeland. And after they

return they wait for a Messiah.

What’s all this waiting about? Our Lord is

frustratingly cryptic in answer to the question of

waiting. The Lord too is waiting patiently, so that

all might be saved. The whole creation waits,

groaning as if in labor, until the day of the Lord’s

deliverance. The wait will end someday, and when

it does it will be so good that no amount of waiting

will seem like too much.

I suppose there’s good waiting as well as bad

waiting. Waiting for my computer to boot up is bad

waiting. Waiting for grandchild booties is probably

good waiting at this time in my younger son’s life.

Waiting in traffic gridlock is bad waiting. Waiting

for the traffic light to change before crossing is

probably good waiting. Waiting in a long check-out

line is bad waiting. Waiting until I can pay with

cash instead of credit is probably good waiting. I

remember being glad to wait 9 months to prepare

for our children’s birth (my wife may have

disagreed).

My mother always made me wait – for cookies, for

supper, for dessert, for my pokie brothers, for ½

hour after lunch before swimming, for the car keys

and for my first tattoo. Was any of that good

waiting? It was at least wise, if not good –

especially the tattoo.

Advent, the 4 week season before Christmas, is a

season of waiting, good waiting. Delicious waiting

– like tailgating before a Viking game is delicious

waiting. It is a time spent in wonderfully anxious

listening – like a husband listening for the call that

tells him to get the car, labor has begun. It is a time

like the moments just before your soldier spouse

comes home, when you can almost taste the

impossibly good news. We wait for Jesus that way.

God bless you and your family this advent as we

wait for our coming Lord!

-

Pastor Mike

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USHERS 12/4 8:15 Ed & Sherri Godfrey, John & Margo

Wojciak

10:00 John & Marlys Orr, Elsa Ray, Ken

Schultz

12/11 8:15 Randy Holmvig, Helen Ryan, Herb &

Barb Schoon

10:00 Ernie & Mary Erickson, Dean & Pat

Sylvester

12/18 8:15 Ralph Carlson, Rich & Eileen Leino,

Chuck Lubowitz, Karla Peterson

10:00 David Anderson, Lisa Slepica, Jay &

Sue Stromberg

12/25 8:15 Ron & Shirley Kretlow, Clark & Joyce

Marshall

10:00 Pat & Laura Guimont, Roger & Marlene

Prill

READERS Dec 4 8:15 Randy Holmvig

10:00 Cantata

Dec 11 8:15 Tina Royer

10:00 SS Program

Dec 18 8:15 Teen Challenge

10:00 Teen Challenge

Dec 24 3:00 Mark Carlson

5:00 Gary Guida

Dec 25 9:00 Mark Carlson, Barb Schiffler

COMMUNION 12/4 8:15 Randy & Lori Holmvig, Glenn Suess

10:00 No Communion

12/11 8:15 Lynn Hansen, Rad & Tina Royer

10:00 Greg & Diane Meyer, Ken Stebbins

12/18 8:15 Teen Challenge

10:00 Teen Challenge

12/24 3:00 Renee Gilmer, John & Marlys Orr

5:00 Gary & Becky Guida, Jerry Pflepsen

12/25 9:00 No Communion

Sunday Worship Attendance October 30 259

November 6 183

November 13 187

November 20 199

DECEMBER BIRTHDAYS 1 Kathy Hartman, Kristy Tesdahl

5 Sandy Kretlow

6 Judy Fields

7 Carson Holmvig, Jerry Huxford, Cleone

McGillivray, Rob Schmidt

9 Anna Coughlin, Charlie Frahm, Arlene

Radach

11 Madison Bordwell

12 Barbara Call

13 Geraldine Brown, Amber Holmvig

17 Jake Kewatt, Dick Muggli

18 Joel Huntley, Pete Newton

20 Peter Bartels, Michael Serfling

21 Greg Gavin, Amanda Meyer

22 Jay Stromberg

23 George Knutson, Brenda Stirewalt

24 Steve Haglund, Rick Hann, Bill Santi

26 Sue Johnson, Brian Knox

27 Dennis Muggli

28 Edna Sorensen

29 Bob Erickson, Diane Hein, Kendall

Johnson, Margo Wojciak

30 Tim Herberg, Tony Kimball, Nikki Knutson,

Nathan Williams-Nelson

31 Steve Blanich, Myron Midthun, Shirley

Quinehan

DECEMBER WEDDING ANNIVERSARIES

10 Wayne & Carol Brezina (1966)

11 Josh & Renee Voller (2010)

13 Jim & Sheila Mayne (1981)

16 Bill & Marlys Keefe (1962)

18 Curt & Krista Bordwell (1999)

24 Jerry & Polly Pflepsen (1989)

27 Dave & Sandy Archibald (1992)

27 Jerry & Donna Sanderson (1959)

29 Lee & Bobbie Midthun (1990)

31 Ken & Carole Nystrom (1969)

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A Word from Salem’s Council President

I’m writing this, my last article, as the president of

Salem. I will pass the torch on to the vice president,

who becomes the new president at the close of the

annual meeting on December 11. This has been a

humbling experience and I thank all who have

supported and prayed for me and all of Salem’s

leadership over these last three years.

The busy holiday season is here. Enjoy time with

family and friends. Hopefully you can take in our

cantata on December 3 or 4, maybe even do some

caroling with family and friends or be a part of the

living Nativity. We have lots of opportunities to

share with others by ringing bells for the Salvation

Army, donating toys for our outreach to Adult Teen

challenge, donating monies toward the Good Gifts

program, sponsoring a child on the Angel tree.

Share ideas with others, talk about your traditions,

sit by someone new at coffee time, spread the joy of

the birth of our Lord!

I was reading Ephesians this morning and I would

like to paraphrase Ephesians 3:14-20 as a prayer to

and for our congregation here at Salem.

“I bow my knees before the Father, from whom

every family in heaven and earth is named, that

according to the riches of His glory He may grant

us to be strengthened with might through His

Spirit and that Christ may dwell in our hearts

through faith. That we, being rooted and

grounded in love, may have power to comprehend

with all the saints what is the breadth and length,

height and depth of Christ love for us which

surpasses all knowledge, that we may be filled with

all the fullness of God. To Christ whose power is

at work within us so that we are able to do far

more abundantly than all we ask or think, to Him

be glory in the church to all generations, forever

and ever. Amen”

Wishing you a Joyous, Peace-filled Christmas!

God Bless,

Di Hein :)

Everybody Matters –

“Each one should give what he has decided in his

heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion,

for God loves a cheerful giver.” 2 Corinthians 9:7

“If it is encouraging, let him encourage; if it is

contributing to the needs of others, let him give

generously; if it is leadership, let him govern

diligently; if it is showing mercy, let him do it

cheerfully.” Romans 12:8

Thank you to all who contribute weekly or monthly

to the operating budget of Salem Lutheran Church

and to those who make special gifts when needs

arise. Thank you to those who eagerly say yes

when asked to help or serve. Thank you to all who

generously volunteer their time, energy, and skills

to serve the church and community. Thank you to

those who pray daily for the needs of others. “God

loves a cheerful giver.”

EVENTS / ANNOUNCEMENTS

If you have questions about any of the following,

please feel free to call the Salem office. We will do

our best to answer your questions or find someone

who can. Please refer to the December Calendar

printed in this issue for a complete schedule of

events.

CHRISTMAS EVE OFFERING

2016 – The Church Council has

made the decision that ½ of the

the Christmas Eve offering will

be given to Voyageurs Lutheran

Ministry and ½ to Lutheran

World Relief.

Salem Lutheran Church will be the site of the

ECUMENICAL Christmas Cantata, “Joy,” under

the direction of Scott Ruffing, on Saturday,

December 3rd at 7:00 p.m. AND Sunday, December

4th at 10:00 a.m. EVERYONE is welcome!

Communion will be served on Sunday, December

4th at the 8:15 a.m. Worship Service. No

communion at 10am.

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TWO PANCAKE BREAKFASTS AT

SALEM IN DECEMBER!!

8:45-10:00 a.m.

Sunday, December 4 – Come and eat before

the Choir’s Christmas Cantata

Sunday, December 18 – Come and have

breakfast with the members of the Teen

Challenge Choir

PIECEMAKERS quilt group meets in the

fellowship hall on Tuesdays at 9:00 am. This group

makes quilts for Lutheran World Relief, missions,

baptisms and miscellaneous gifts.

IN STITCHES knitting/crocheting group meets in

the lounge area on Tuesdays at 1:00 p.m.

WORSHIP & MUSIC COMMITTEE will meet

in the fellowship hall on Tuesday, December 6, 5:30

PM.

ADVENT LUNCHEON

EVERYONE is welcome to this potluck

luncheon on Wednesday,

December 7th at NOON,

hosted by the Sarah

Circle. Please come and

enjoy food and fellowship.

Bring a dish to share.

DIAPERS – You are welcome to come and help

cut t-shirts for use in Salem’s Diaper Ministry on

Wednesday, January 11, 2017 at 9:00 a.m. in the

fellowship hall. No Diaper Cutting in December.

SALEM’S OUTREACH COMMITTEE is

collecting new, unopened, nonviolent toys for the

children of Crow Wing County Jail inmates and

students of Brainerd Adult and Teen Challenge.

Bring gifts to the narthex area. If you prefer,

financial donations can be made. Please make

checks to “Salem Lutheran Church” and note “jail

toys” on the memo line. Thank you for your

support!

HONDURAS MISSION TRIP 2017

Salem Lutheran will be returning to Kids Ark Camp

in Honduras March 4 to 14, 2017. We will be

continuing our construction work at the camp as

well as hosing many wonderful local

children. Each trip is a wonderful faith-building

experience. The cost is $1600 per person for the

complete trip, including airfare, meals,

transportation and lodging. All are welcome to join

us. $100 deposit is due now, with the balance of the

trip paid in full by 2/1/17. A minimum of 10 people

must register for this trip to happen. Please contact

greg meyer with any questions you may have at

218-534-3309 or greg@salemdwd.org.

CAMP HIAWATHA & CAMP

VERMILION Wondering what to get that

special child in your life this Christmas? Share

your faith by giving the gift of CAMP! A week at

Camp Hiawatha or Camp Vermilion includes

swimming, learning, singing, playing, worship, new

friends, and so much more. It is a gift that lasts a

lifetime! For more information, visit:

www.VLMcamps.org

SUNDAY SCHOOL CHRISTMAS

PROGRAM Sunday, December 11, 10:00 a.m.

as part of Worship. Come and enjoy the story of

Jesus’ birth shared by the children of the

congregation.

ANNUAL MEETING OF THE

CONGREGATION will be held in the

sanctuary on Sunday, December 11th at 11:00 a.m.

An election will be held and we will be voting on

the proposed budget for 2017. All members of the

congregation are encouraged to attend.

FINK NITE: December 14 at 6:30 p.m. in the

fellowship hall for students in grades 7, 8, & 9. The

subject for this year’s classes is the Old Testament.

GIRLS NIGHT OUT – all women are welcome to

come and enjoy dinner and fellowship at Coach’s

Corner on Tuesday, December 13th, 5:30 p.m.

MINNESOTA ADULT & TEEN

CHALLENGE CHOIR will be at Salem on

Sunday, December 18, both services, sharing their

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music and faith stories. Don’t forget to come for

pancakes that Sunday between 8:45-10:00 a.m.

EVENING BIBLE STUDY meets on Tuesday

evenings, 6:30 p.m. in the Education Unit, led by

Pastor Mike. You are welcome to come whenever

your schedule allows.

WOMEN’S BIBLE STUDIES

Wednesdays, 6:30 a.m. in the library

Thursdays, 8:30 a.m. in the conference room

ALL women are welcome!

MEN’S BIBLE STUDY – All men are welcome

each Friday morning at 8:00 a.m. in the conference

room.

CANDLELIGHT

WORSHIP on

Christmas Eve

will be held at

3:00 and 5:00 p.m.

We welcome these NEW MEMBERS!

Carol Bobich Nory & Peggy Hunze

131 2nd St NE 20115 County Rd 30

Crosby MN 56441 Crosby MN 56441

218-546-5709 507-774-9636

Mike & LuAnn Larson Lyle & Mary Lobitz

21764 County Rd 111 38863 Partridge Ave

Deerwood MN Aitkin MN 56431

612-859-9314 218-251-7413

Nathan & Christine Myers John & Nancy Pelant

Eian, Egen, Estyn, Edyn (Associate Members)

909 Birch St Nathan, Claire

Crosby MN 56441 11195 21st St NE

218-275-9134 St Michael MN

612-209-2809

Pastor Mike & Randy Briggs 44655 237th Lane

Aitkin MN 56431

715-410-5404

DIRECTOR OF OUTREACH Greg Meyer

greg@salemdwd.org

As I begin writing this article, there is talk of our

first snow. We have been so blessed with beautiful

weather this fall, it makes the transition to winter

even more difficult. Even if winter has to come,

there is so many things to be excited about this time

of year.

I am so blessed to be a part of the Social Outreach

of Salem. We have the BEST volunteers anywhere!

You make things happen every day for many

people. You are a blessing and a treasure, and I

thank you for your tireless dedication to serving

God’s people. We also have the best staff; Deb,

Sandy, Dennis and Dee Dee. They make my job so

easy. They have hearts for ministry combined with

amazing work ethics. I also thank them for their

amazing work and leadership.

In the next few weeks we will be serving many

folks, in many ways. Salem’s Thanksgiving

Potluck was fabulous. Social Outreach will be

serving 8 local families to ensure they have a

Thanksgiving meal. The toy collection has begun

for the children of the inmates at the Crow Wing

County Jail and the students of Adult and Teen

Challenge. As well as the toys, Social Outreach

will host Christmas Parties at the jail and Teen

Challenge facilities. Salem will be ringing bells for

the Salvation Army all day on December 16, and

hosting the Adult and Teen Challenge Choir on

December 18th along with a pancake breakfast.

December is the month of giving, but every month

is December thanks to all of you. As we reflect

back on 2016, over 400 people in our community

are sleeping on beds that did not have them before.

Literally 1,000’s of individuals have been served

through the past year, not including all the folks that

were able to purchase items that they needed very

affordable at The Mustard Seed.

It with the deepest gratitude that I wish all of you a

Blessed Christmas season and wonderful New Year

- full of joy and love. Thank you for caring, loving

and sharing.

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The Mustard Seed Deb Selk, Manager

msmanger@salemdwd.org

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas at the

Mustard Seed. We are prepared for the biggest

event of the year. A Taste of Christmas and the

huge Bake Sale. I just want to say THANK YOU to

all of you that have spent that extra time getting

ready for this. We couldn’t do it without all of you.

December Cause of the Month is Jail Ministry. As

you know this is another event that happens in

December. Our ministry goes into the jail and

brings Christmas to those that are there. We have a

Christmas party with pizza and gifts are brought for

the children of those that are in there.

We will be open on Thursday, December 22nd, but

will be closed on Friday, the 23rd and Saturday the

24th. Also the week of New Year’s we will be open

all 3 days.

Wishing everyone a very Blessed Thanksgiving.

Thankful for each one of you.

Blessings, Deb

LIBRARY NEWS

December is such a special time in the Church year

as we Celebrate Advent and Christmas. This is a

time when families gather. You may want to check

out games from the cabinet to the right of the

fireplace. There are Christmas DVDs on the

children’s table. Seasonal books are available on

the desk and also on the cart.

You are welcome to our next Library Meeting

December 13 at 3 p.m. We can always use help

keeping the book shelves in order, decorating the

room and writing an article for The

Connection. Any suggestions are

appreciated. HAPPY NEW YEAR

Marcia Anderson, Lynn Hansen, Joyce Kohnen

CONGRATULATIONS to Beth Lavan, who is

the BIGGEST WINNER in the healthy

eating/exercise competition at Salem.

Several people were involved in the 8-week

Biggest Winner Challenge at Salem which

ended on November 6th. The Challenge

stresses healthy eating and exercise, as well

as daily prayer and time with God. Beth has

chosen to give her winnings (most

participants contributed $5) to Salem

Children’s Ministry. Great work, Beth!

COORDINATOR OF CHILDREN’S MINISTRY

Connie Lou Swanson connielou@salemdwd.org

Connie will be producing a “Children’s Ministry

Update” that will be available on the table in the

narthex.

TRY SOMETHING NEW!!! You will be

invited to join in the pageantry of the Inter-

Generational Family Christmas program on

December 11th during the 10:00 Worship

Service. At specific

points in the play we

will be asking for a few

members of the

congregation to go to

the narthex to put on a head piece and

receive instructions for a small but very

important part in the pageant. It’s up to

how the Spirit moves each one of you as to

who will join the cast and children to help

make this a memorable, fun time together.

But before December 11th, we are looking

for 4 scripture readers and 4 poetry

readers, to sign on ahead of time, so they

can practice with the Sunday school children

at 9:15 on December 11th. Now, if we have

spiked your interest in being a part of this

unique way of passing on the story of our

Savior’s Birth, contact Marlene Prill 218-

764-3383 or Connie Lou Swanson 218-

330-9307…..SOON.

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Salem Lutheran Church Operating Fund

Financial Results for October

Adopted Annual Budget

Oct Actual 2016

Oct Prior Year

2015

Income $405,310 $ 36,478 $ 37,158

Expense $424,937 $ 34,976 $ 32,064

Net ($19,627 ) $ 1,502 $ 5,094

Financial Results Jan – Oct (YTD)

Adopted Annual Budget

YTD Actual 2016

YTD Prior Year

2015

Income $405,310 $ 321,032 $ 326,156

Expense $424,937 $ 330,293 $ 328,312

Net ($ 19,627 ) ($ 9,261) ($ 2,156)

Overview of Mortgage & Building Fund Salem Lutheran Church

October 2016 Mortgage

Original Mortgage Amount $2,379,965.00

Principal Balance (Aprox) $1,751,844.00

Monthly Mortgage Payment (Principal & Interest)

$ 12,133.54

Additional Principal Payment $ 3,274.46

Building Fund

Beginning Balance 10/01/16 $197,380.31

Income Oct 2016

Gifts $11,829.83

Interest $61.58

Memorials $540.00

Expense Oct 2016

Mortgage Payment ($12,133.54)

Additional Principal ($ 3,274.46)

Ending Balance 10/31/16 $194,403.72 (The ending building balance is what we have in savings accounts

dedicated to the building fund. $79,400 of this is in a special account

which is set aside for any unexpected large building expense or need)

Note that complete financials are available by contacting Sandy

Beyer at the church office. Any questions can be directed to either

Council Treasurer Paul Tesdahl or Financial Manager Sandy Beyer.

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The following statements were written by the students

who participated in the Affirmation of Baptism at Salem

on Sunday, October 30, 2016

KATIE McGUIRE

A bible verse that is meaningful to me is Jeremiah 29:11 “For I know the plans I have for you…plans to give

you hope and a future.” Now the question is why? Because at times when I am low spirited I know that I can

read that and God will give me hope and remind me that whatever is happening or will happen is shaping my

future.

I want to be confirmed because I know it will strengthen me and my relationship with God. Being confirmed is

a grace we are given. And like baptism it give us more graces that we need in order to carry out our universal

call. I want to renew my baptism vows. I also want the full grace of the Holy Spirit.

The definition of faith is complete trust or confidence in someone or something. What does this mean to me?

Having faith in Christ is having life. I will always have life through Christ. The church is important to me

because it’s been here my whole life. From the nursery days, to Sunday School, to baptism, to now… writing

about my confirmation. I believe in God because I put my faith in him a while ago and he hasn’t let me down.

KYLE SKEIM

Isaiah 41:10 “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you

and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

This verse means a lot to me because it shows how God is always with you. Through life’s ups and downs he is

always watching over you. God is always looking out for you so you will never need to worry. God will

always be there to strengthen you when you feel weak.

I have had a great time going to church at Salem. From bible school up until now when I’m getting confirmed.

I have always had fun doing things with the church like going to camp, serving soup before Lent, going to

Prime Time for tubing, and hanging out with my friends at confirmation on Wednesdays. To me everything

I’ve done at Salem has been a fun way to get closer to God. I am glad I’ve been able to spend these years at

Salem Lutheran Church.

MICHAELA STANGEL

Confirmation in My Eyes

There’s a verse in the bible that states: “I am not afraid of ten thousands of people who have set themselves

against me all around.” (Psalm 3:6) This is a perfect example of why I want to let the Lord into my life. I

know that he’s always somebody that will be there to love and support me when nobody else will, including

myself. Somebody who will give me the strength to overcome the many obstacles that ten thousands of people

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don’t believe I’ll overcome. He’s there whether it’s something small, or something life changing. I’m on top of

the world when I have God by my side.

The church is my gateway to God. It’s a community of amazing people who fill each others hearts with joy, if

they know each other on a personal level or not. I attend church to re-establish my belief that there’s happiness

and good people somewhere in this world. God gives me somebody to turn to in the tough times, and

somebody to thank in the good times. If I ever lose myself and am ready to give up, God will pick me back up.

All I have to do is let him. I’m doing so by confirming my faith in him. No matter where I go in life, I know

that he’ll be right there alongside me. I think that that’s the most comforting thought.

NATE WILLIAMS

Philippians 4:13 “I can do anything through him who strengthens me.”

This verse is what I think of to remind myself that when I turn to God I can do anything. There have been times

that I’ve made bad decisions, and have questioned my faith. For those of you who don’t know me, I’m a pretty

competitive person. I went 29-12 last wrestling season. I went into sections feeling really confident. When I

had lost the match to go to state, I was devastated. I was at one of the lowest points in my life. I started to

wonder whether God was on my side or not. Then I realized, it wasn’t my time to win. It was my time to learn.

God had made me realize my weaknesses by showing me defeat.

My faith is in my family, my schoolwork, and my athletics. That is why it means the world to me. If I didn’t

have the faith to look for the light at the end of the tunnel I wouldn’t be the person I am today. To confirm my

faith in God today is not a want, it is a need.

TYLER WYNN

Psalm 11:1 “In the Lord I take refuge; how can you say to me, Flee like a bird to the mountains.”

To me this verse says that you can always go to the Lord for guidance and safety; and that people will say that

the Lord doesn’t exist and that you’re just wasting your time.

Being confirmed would help my faith grow. It would also make me feel more connected with the church.

Church has been a big part of my family. I would like to continue on that path. Being confirmed would also

top off the three years of FINK.

My faith is important to me and would hopefully grow after being confirmed. Faith is and always will be a part

of my life. I think faith is something everyone should have. I don’t think the amount of faith matters, just

having faith is a good thing. A major part of faith is believing in God. I can say that I believe in God and hope

to get confirmed to his church.

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MARLEE ZENDER

I have chosen the following verse: “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them,

for the Lord your God goes with you. He will never leave you nor forsake you.” [Deuteronomy 31:6]

I chose this verse because it is undeniably true. God will always walk through life with us so we should not

surrender our happiness to our fears and terrors, because he will always stand right next to us the whole time.

What does the word Faith mean? Faith is a word of many meanings, but to me faith is the church and the

family of people that congregate here on Sunday because they care about other people and themselves and this

is where they come to forgive their sins and pray for others. I have been through a lot these past few years and

my escape is dancing to religious songs because they have the deepest meanings that I can relate to. Faith has

helped me through some of the hardest times of my life. I know I’m not at church every Sunday but I always

make time for prayer and God’s Faith. That’s what Faith means to me.

Why do I want to be confirmed? I want to be confirmed because I want to be able to follow God’s word my

entire life without the fear of no longer believing in God’s word. And I also want to pursue one of my top

dreams of volunteering and teaching people about God’s word. I learned a lot in the time I was in

Confirmation, but the biggest thing that I will take away from this experience is that everyone in that room

loves you and cares about you. I hope our younger generations get to experience what I have gotten to

experience. Thank you Lord for blessing me with all of these amazing people. Thank you.

SALEM LUTHERAN CHURCH

Outreach Committee Meeting

November 10, 2016

Present were: Diane Hein, Paul Tesdahl, Cecil Schmidt, Debbie MacKay, Sandy Beyer, Pastor Mike, Greg

Meyer, Dee Dee Frahm, and Sandy Kretlow.

Absent were Steve Haglund and Noreen Steinbrecher

MSC- Motion, Seconded, and Carried

Debbie called the meeting to order with devotions.

Our first issue was to review the budget and staffing for the next year for SW and MS.

Several motions were made regarding staffing. Dee Dee Frahm was extended an offer for the Social Outreach

Facilitator position and Dennis Peterson was offer the Salem WEST Manager position. The details of the

position descriptions still need to be worked on. There were recommendations for wages as well.

Social Outreach continues to support:

1. Lunch Bunch

2. Connie Lou’s children ministries

3. Jail Ministry

4. Salem Saints

5. Teen Challenge

6. Soup kitchen

A motion was made to accept CTC contract. MSC

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A motion was made to send 2 - $100.00 checks for Salvation Army Bell Ringers.

Plans to fix the walls at MS with An offer was made to donate slat wall for the main store, this will cover all

the holes in the walls and give us flexibility with adjustable hooks and brackets.

It was decided to not make an insurance claim and have the damaged trailer “patched” with Diamond Plate

without claiming it on our insurance.

Motion was made to give the Sheriff dept. $75.00 for Drug Prevention Materials. MSC

Continue looking into options for security cameras at SW.

New boiler for MS will be looked at yet this fall. Ed Godfrey will install in December and it will be paid for

with Summerfest proceeds.

Greg will speak with Glen Helm and make plans to call the gutter company to repair the gutter on the back side

of the MS.

We need to explore ideas or options to improve SW parking and improve building to function better. The

neighbors are frustrated by the volume of traffic and need to find ways to utilize the main street more, to limit

traffic by the homes.

Slumber land Awards:

We were asked to find 11 children for twin beds and 2 adults for a therapeutic bed. Beds will be given out

before Christmas, and Slumberland will deliver.

Secretary Minutes for Sept Meeting had been sent out and approved. MSC

Greg has put in for grants from Hallett Trust, Mille Lacs, and Crow Wing Power.

Debbie has 11 kids’ names for the Angel Tree.

SOC will be doing the Teen Challenge Christmas Party again this year. We will need new toys for this party.

The population has grown with the addition to their facility this past summer.

A gift basket was donated from the MS for a fundraiser for the little girl with cancer, who lives in Crosby. Kay

Cooper also organized donations of baked items for a bake sale that was held during the dinner on 11/11/16.

Mustard Seed Report:

I can’t believe its Taste of Christmas next week. The basement is over flowing and we will get started on

Monday Nov 14. It is our yearly money maker along with a big bake sale. We are 20,000 + over from last year

at this time. A sent a plea out to other church asking for Volunteers for both Salem West and Mustard Seed.

Deb

We are having troubles with printer, scanner and computer talking to each other. Will call Deerwood Tech to fix

our problem.

Bridges of Hope called about 5-6 families that need help with a Thanksgiving meal. A $25.00 gift card will be

given to each family.

Next meeting December 8, at 5:30.

Meeting adjourned with the Lord’s Prayer.

Submitted by Sandy Kretlow

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SALEM LUTHERAN CHURCH

Council Meeting

October 20, 2016

Council Mission Statement: “We exist, with God’s help, to provide leadership for the Salem Lutheran Church

Congregation.”

Present: Pastor Mike Briggs, Lynn Hansen, Randy Holmvig, Sherri Godfrey, Kris Schmidt, Paul Tesdahl,

Diane Hein

Absent: Rick Shafer, Cecil Schmidt

The meeting was called to order, by president Diane Hein who opened with a reading and devotion.

SECRETARY’S REPORT

MOTION: to approve the minutes from Council meeting , September 22, 2016 with following

amendment; page 3 , Due to a temporary absence of a Mustard Seed employee, a temporary position is

open at the Mustard Seed, and they have recommended Dee Dee Frahm to fill the position.

TREASURER’S REPORT

Giving was up this month compared to last month, but operating expenses still exceeded income,

increasing the operating deficit to $10,763.34.

Overall expenses are down slightly from 2015.

Quarterly report through September will be given to the congregation next Sunday.

Loose offering remains strong.

MOTION: to approve the treasurer’s report. MSC.

PASTOR’S REPORT

Upcoming Confirmation for 6 students on Oct 30 and 1 student on Nov 20.

New member service and welcome on November 27, with a reception following 2nd service. New

Member Orientation Class will be Weds, Nov 9.

There will be a Thanksgiving Eve service at Salem, with Cascade and possibly St Joseph’s on Nov 23.

STAFF REPORTS

Accepted from Connie Lou Swanson and Greg Meyer.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Accepted from Worship and Music, Faith Formation, and Salem West Committees.

List of nominees was received from Nominating Committee.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

Mustard Seed parking lot/alley-In the process of being surveyed prior to official transfer of property to

Salem Lutheran Church. All costs to be paid by the Skone estate.

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Background checks for Sunday School and Confirmation volunteers: Will use MN court site (online) for

initial check. This is a free site.

NEW BUSINESS:

The times for the upcoming congregational meetings will be as follows:

November 27 Budget Meeting 9:15, between services

December 11 Annual Meeting 11:00, following second service

Motorized wheelchair- There is an offer to gift a motorized wheelchair to the church. Discussion and

decision to decline. Will obtain a “wish list” from various committees for potential donor suggestions.

Christmas offering designation: MOTION: to designate half the Christmas offering to Voyageurs

Lutheran Ministry and half to Lutheran World Relief. MSC

Staff Health Insurance: MOTION: to continue health coverage with Gold Plus through 2017. MSC

DISCUSSION:

Overtime law changes- after further review, changes should not affect Salem Lutheran Church.

Staff salaries to be reviewed within context of new budget.

Annual Report print date-possibility of December printing. Need to compile list of pros and cons with

input from Financial Manager.

Great River Strings will be using building for their November 19 concert. Building will need to be

cleaned afterward for Sunday service.

Haiti: Donations to Haiti to help with hurricane damage should be sent to Lutheran World Relief.

Capital Campaign: Team met Oct 3, and are looking at options and recommendations. There is a need

for new team members to move this forward.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Pastor Mike’s Installation will be November 13 at both services.

“Deck the Halls” There will be a congregational church decorating event for Advent on Nov 29 from

4:30-7:00 p.m.

Meeting adjourned and closed with the Lord’s Prayer.

Respectfully submitted,

Kris Schmidt

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DECEMBER 2016

Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

1 8:30 AM Women’s Bible Study 6:30 PM Quilting at Heartwood

2 8:00 AM Men’s Bible Study

3 7:00 PM CHRISTMAS CANTATA “Joy”

4 8:15 AM Traditional Worship/Communion 8:45-10:00 AM PANCAKE BREAKFAST 9:15 AM Sunday School 10:00 AM CHRISTMAS CANTATA “Joy”

5 9:00 AM Unlimited Learning

6 9:00 AM Piecemakers 1:00 PM In Stitches 5:30 PM Worship & Music Team Meeting 6:30 PM Evening Bible Study

7 6:30 AM Women’s Bible Study 10:30 AM Staff Meeting 12:00 PM ADVENT POTLUCK LUNCHEON 12:00 PM Festival of the Heart Team Meeting 3:30 PM Lego Club 5:00 PM Praise Team Rehearsal 6:00 PM Choir Rehearsal 7:00 PM Salem Ringers Rehearsal

8 8:30 AM Women’s Bible Study 5:30 PM Salem Outreach Committee Mtg

9 8:00 AM Men’s Bible Study

10 8:30 AM Serpent Lake Association Meeting

11 8:15 AM Traditional Worship/Communion 9:15 AM Sunday School 10:00 AM Sunday School Christmas Program/Communion 11:00 AM Annual Meeting of the Congregation

12 13 9:00 AM Piecemakers 1:00 PM In Stitches 5:30 PM Girls Night Out 6:30 PM Evening Bible Study

14 6:30 AM Women’s Bible Study 10:30 AM Staff Meeting 12:00 PM Festival of the Heart Team Meeting 5:00 PM Praise Team Rehearsal 6:00 PM Choir Rehearsal 6:30 PM FINK NITE 7:00 PM Salem Ringers Rehearsal

15 8:30 AM Women’s Bible Study 1:30 PM Naomi Circle 6:00 PM Council Meeting

16 8:00 AM Men’s Bible Study Salem ringing bells for Salvation Army, Westgate Mall in Baxter

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18 8:15 AM Teen Challenge Choir 8:45-10:00 AM PANCAKE BREAKFAST 9:15 AM Sunday School 10:00 AM Teen Challenge Choir

19 7:00 PM Private Piano Recital

20 9:00 AM Piecemakers 1:00 PM In Stitches 3:00 PM Library Team Meeting 6:30 PM Faith Formation Team Meeting 6:30 PM Evening Bible Study

21 6:30 AM Women’s Bible Study 10:30 AM Staff Meeting 12:00 PM Festival of the Heart Team Meeting 5:00 PM Praise Team Rehearsal 6:00 PM Choir Rehearsal 7:00 PM Salem Ringers Rehearsal

22 8:30 AM Women’s Bible Study

23 8:00 AM Men’s Bible Study

3:00 PM CANDLELIGHT WORSHIP 5:00 PM CANDLELIGHT WORSHIP

25 CHRISTMAS DAY 9:00 AM Worship Lessons & Carols

26 27 28 6:30 AM Women’s Bible Study

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30 8:00 AM Men’s Bible Study

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SALEM STAFF CHURCH COUNCIL Pastor – Mike Briggs Sherri Godfrey 218.534.3557 Director of Outreach – Greg Meyer Lynn Hansen, Vice President 218.678.2051 Office Manager – Deborah Carlson Diane Hein, President 218.678.2699 Financial Manager – Sandra Beyer Randy Holmvig 218.527.0123 Coordinator of Children's Ministry – Connie Lou Swanson Cecil Schmidt 218.764.2361 Facilities Coordinator – Glen Helm Kris Schmidt, Secretary 218.772.0121 Organist/Pianist – Becky Klingelhofer Rick Shafer 218.545.1532 Choir Director – Scott Ruffing Paul Tesdahl, Treasurer 218.546.5036 Handbell Choir Director – Kevin Edstrom Praise Team Directors – Becky Klingelhofer/Noreen Steinbrecher Social Ministry Facilitator – Dee Dee Frahm Salem West Manager – Dennis Peterson EMAIL Mustard Seed Manager – Deb Selk Pastor Mike pastor@salemdwd.org Mustard Seed Program Assistant – Sandy Archibald Greg Meyer greg@salemdwd.org Kitchen Coordinator – Kathy Schultz Office/Debbi Carlson office@salemdwd.org Connie Swanson connielou@salemdwd.org MINISTRY COORDINATORS Sandy Beyer finance@salemdwd.org Wedding Coordinators – Kim Coughlin, Sherri Godfrey Glen Helm facilities@salemdwd.org Cradle Roll – Jessica Jones Salem WEST west@salemdwd.org Control Booth Coordinator – Meriellen Pisarek The Mustard Seed mustardseed@salemdwd.org

Salem Lutheran Church Website – Meriellen Pisarek Volunteer Youth Director – Dee Dee Frahm

Phone Numbers Salem Lutheran Church: 218.534.3309 Salem WEST (giving ministry): 218.534.4962 Mustard Seed: 218.534.2945