From the Desk… 2009
From the Desk of Pastor Ted…
Month of January, 2009 (the most recent material is on last page)
Sunday Bulletin Articles, Newsletter Information, and Report to the Council
Newsletter – January 2009
A New Year – Setting a Course
I think that St. John’s enters 2009 in a better place emotionally and with more clarity than a year ago. Much time and effort has been devoted in the past year to identify underlying issues and to develop more effective leadership perspectives. While everything has not been managed or resolved, many aspects of congregational life are more settled. We are shifting the interim process toward setting a course for the congregation’s future… the immediate future and a few years out. Be part of discussions that will help to carry out the tasks of the interim time and of the call process.
A Couple Thoughts on Committee Structure
I mention this in my part of the Annual Report… I invite people to consider a couple of changes or developments in committee organization.
The first idea is to form a committee that combines a number of existing committees. Four words describe the areas and purposes… Learning, Evangelizing, Growing, Serving. Note that the four words are participles, a type of grammar that combines elements of verb (action) and adjective (description). The word, participle, connects with the roots of the word participate, which itself means: to have or take a part or share with others (in some activity, enterprise, etc.) Enough of the grammar lesson… in a sense, this kind of committee would be action oriented… doing the stuff that puts “legs” to the mission of the congregation.
The second idea is to reshape the current Stewardship Committee into three sub-groups called: Ask, Thank, Tell (or the acronym: ATT). This model has been shaped by the person who wrote the stewardship program used this fall (Charles Lane). Each of the three sub-groups focuses on one of the three words (notice that each word is an action word… a verb). For instance, one group’s task is to Ask… to keep providing giving challenges to the people of the congregation. Asking might be a monthly emphasis for monetary giving (such as to a specific project of the ELCA or local concern). The asking might also include inviting people to participate in a particular ministry activity. The Ask group spends time together deciding what to ask for and how to ask. The same holds for the other two words: Thank and Tell. The Thank sub-group thanks people for their gifts of time, talent and treasure… over and over… in creative and real ways. Imagine how such thanking could benefit and strengthen the congregation. The third sub-group (Tell) does just that… it consistently informs the congregation about the activity and ministry that the church is doing, locally, synodically, through the ELCA and in world.
Help to Write the Congregational Mission Profile (CMP)
This multi-page document needs to be created before the congregation enters into the interviewing parts of the call process. Watch for opportunities to contribute to the creation of this document. Plan to be a part of the process.
January 11, 2009
Update on Renovation Task Force – Some Decisions
The St. John’s group that has been working a few years to develop a renovation plan met on Thursday with new information relative to some cost breakdowns. The following is what I heard the group discuss and decide:
- There are now two renovation plans, one for the sanctuary and the other for the entry area by the elevator and in front of my office. Both plans are considered viable ways to change and modify the building to meet present and future needs.
- With current economic realities (Oshkosh Truck stock prices in particular) the primary funding resources decreased substantially. If I understand this correctly, and I might be off, the truck stock has decrease to about 20% or so of its earlier value. Other funds dedicated to renovation work (not invested in stock) are holding their value adequately. The task force decided that moving into the full renovation plan right now would not be in a good interest for the congregation’s financial realities.
- The two architectural plans put together over the past years will serve as a “master-plan” for St. John’s. The bulk of the two plans will be “shelved” for now… perhaps five years or so. Any smaller projects emerging during the present or near future should reflect the general thrust of the two “master-plans”.
- The Renovation Task Force decided to promote three specific smaller renovation projects, likely using existing funds for the most part:
1. Expand the entryway into the sanctuary (the door nearest the elevator), making its width close to that of the hallway itself and pushing the floor level space to the existing column by the lectern. (This is the space where – I believe – the organ console used to be before it was moved to the balcony.)
2. Create a up-to-code bathroom (unisex) in the space now containing a set of steps to the stage and a storage closet (another set of steps to the stage will be maintained as well as existing portable steps.)
3. Remove the walls around the reception office to create a gathering space that will also eliminate the narrowed hallway in front of my office. The existing bathroom would be converted to a small service counter with a sink. The glassed-in small office could become the space to house office machines.
These three smaller projects might generate some positive rallying in the congregation to make “do-able” changes that promote and enhance the relational climate of St. John’s. These three projects are all part of the master-plan.
With this decision, efforts are beginning right away to define details, obtain actual contract bids, define which existing funds best match these projects, inform the congregation of each step, and seek whatever congregational approval is needed in the near future to make these decisions become realities.
This approach to limit current renovations to these three specific aspects of the master-plan will go a long ways toward settling these issues for the near future as well as a 5/10 year period or so. The general developments of the next few years will inform such reconsideration. Particularly important to future discussions will be whether St. John’s experiences further overall decline or if it experiences actual growth and expansion in its congregational life and strength. Settling current renovation issues is a key task that the council identified as determining the initiation of an active call process.
Council Meeting Yesterday – Begin the Call Process: CMP and Call Committee
The “CMP” stands for “Congregational Mission Profile” and is the document needed by the office of bishop to present to pastoral candidates. It’s primary to initiate the call process. The council decided to begin this work immediately. The vision conversations of the past week will be helpful to some of the questions, but the council would like to organize a group to help write responses to all of the various questions. I’ll have a copy of the blank document available on Sunday.
Also, anyone who wishes to obtain their own copy via internet can do so at: www.elca.org, clicking the word “Forms” at the bottom of the page under the heading “Resources”. Then, under the heading “For Congregations” click “Congregational Mission Profile Form”. You will need to download the little program available on that page by clicking “download Full Formatta Filler” that lets you open the form. After installing the small program, click “download Congregational Mission Profile Form”.
Watch for more information about this project. Consider being a part of the group that will be formed to create a CMP for St. John’s… and plan to contribute some of your thoughts and ideas.
A Call Committee Will Be Formed Soon – Informational Meetings: Jan. 25, Feb. 1
The council is given the task by St. John’s constitution to form a Call Committee of six people. To help with that task, informational meetings are scheduled immediately following worship at 10 AM on two Sundays… January 25 and February 1. The informational meetings will help people learn what will be expected by a call committee and its members. Attending at least one of the meetings is a great way to indicate your interest in being considered for this committee. Also, be sure to directly notify a council member and/or the council president, Peter Hanson of your interest.
I think that the council will intend to appoint the committee by the middle or end of February. The council didn’t state this in their specific decision in yesterday’s meeting… this only reflects my opinion about what the council might do next month.
So… the intentional and active aspects of the call process are beginning.
January 25, 2009
Informational Meetings for Those Interested in Being Part of a Call Committee
The council is beginning to consider the appointing of a Call Committee for the call process that is underway. If you are interested in learning more about this, two informational meetings are offered right after worship this Sunday and next. Join Us!!
From the Desk of Pastor Ted…
Month of February, 2009 (the most recent material is on last page)
Sunday Bulletin Articles, Newsletter Information, and Report to the Council
Newsletter – February 2009
Call Process – Call Committee Informational Meeting – Sunday, February 1
People interested in serving on the Call Committee need to let their interest become known to the council right away. One way to show such interest is to attend an informational meeting on Sunday, February 1 immediately following worship. At this informational meeting I’ll describe typical tasks and expectations of committee members. The council will likely appoint people to the Call Committee in middle or late February. St. John’s constitution indicates a Call Committee shall be six persons. I have seen some councils and congregations also add one or two additional people as alternate members. The basic task of a Call Committee is to select and present a single person to the congregation in a special congregational meeting to call a pastor.
Call Process – Vision and Congregational Mission Profile
The primary step needed before a Call Committee can receive names from the office of bishop is a completed CMP (Congregational Mission Profile). This document has been initiated. A good number of people have picked up yellow copies of CMP pages to offer their ideas. More of these pages are available on a table in the gym. Yellow response sheets can be turned in at that same table over the next number of weeks.
The council is responsible for the creation of a CMP and will be meeting at times additional to regular meetings to make this occur. Donna Havemann has offered to assist with the actual writing and computer work needed to create a CMP. As a document begins to form, the blank pages on the table in the gym will be replaced with draft copies of the forming CMP for people’s consideration. Information and ideas about specific sections of the CMP can be given to Donna, a council member or to me (Pastor Ted).
Additional to the actual CMP it is crucial to better define a vision of the congregation’s mission. I distributed half sheets with the three aspects of the congregation’s current mission statement with space to add ideas and thoughts about what each aspect means in the life and ministry of St. John’s in the present and into the near future. I ask EVERYONE to use these various yellow pages to communicate some of your thoughts about vision and the CMP.
Epiphany 2009 – “Aha… I get it!” – Gaining Clarity in God’s Calling
In the church season of Epiphany, we think of how God reveals God’s-self in various ways, particularly through calling us as individuals and community to BE the body-of-Christ in St. John’s and within the wider communities of which we are a part. An epiphany is like a “light going on” or an “Aha… I get it!” moment. Think deeply about how you sense God calling you and the people of St. John’s at this important time in its life. Talk with others about your ideas and thoughts. Share your ideas to help shape a clearer vision of mission and the needed CMP.
The symbol of “light” and the sacrament of baptism are crucial focus points during Epiphany. We will continue to have the lit Christmas lights in the front each Sunday during Epiphany. As a way to connect with baptism, I am including time on four Sundays to recite with the congregation a section of Luther’s Small Catechism on baptism (the Small Catechism is included in the new hymnal) and to offer some of Luther’s further teaching on baptism as found in his Large Catechism. Join us each week as possible during Epiphany to participate in this time of expecting God’s epiphany among the people of St. John’s. Let the “lights turn on!”
REGULAR Worship – The BEST Thing People Can Commit To
I cannot stress how important it is to others and to the congregation as a whole when people deliberately commit to regular worship at St. John’s. A sanctuary that fills with people who choose to join together in worship empowers others and raises the overall spirit in the life of the congregation. YOUR choosing to worship with others each week is a ministry in itself… and I encourage people to strengthen their commitments to regularly worship at St. John’s, especially during this crucial time in beginning a call process to fill the current pastoral vacancy. As I’ve stated before, it is the BEST way to support the life and ministry of St. John’s right now.
Lent 2009 – Liturgy Music
The Worship Committee decided to use ELW Setting 5 for the liturgical music during Sundays in Lent. ELW Setting 5 is identical to the 3rd setting in the green LBW hymnal and the 2nd music setting in the 50-year-old red SBH. The musical roots of ELW Setting 5 are the deepest and oldest of all the music settings in our new hymnal. In a sense, the setting is the most “traditional”. We’ll also use the liturgical music of this setting in Wednesday noon services during Lent.
This setting was chosen for its musical character… a more somber sound in older style chant that connects well with the more introspective/penitential mood of Lent. It might take a while to become comfortable with the melodies for those who are unfamiliar with these traditional music phrases. This music has been in my life since I learned it as a boy in my childhood congregation. I’m hoping that the effort we take during Lent will make Setting 5 another of the good options for St. John’s worship life.
Lent 2009 – Sunday’s WORD: A Dramatic Reading of Mark
We are in the 2nd of the three-year lectionary cycle of weekly readings in worship. That is, we rotate through a schedule of readings every three years with a new year of readings beginning each Advent. Last year, the gospel of Matthew was primarily used for gospel readings. This year, Mark is the primary gospel from which weekly gospel readings are drawn. Next year it will be Luke. Readings from John are scattered throughout the three-year cycle.
The gospel of Mark is a favorite for me since having studied it intensely during my seminary years. Inspired by dramatic portrayals of Mark by Dr. David Rhoads since the late 1970’s I’ve provided similar dramatic readings of the text in worship over a five-week period. I plan to do this again at St. John’s on Sunday mornings during Lent… beginning March 8 and concluding on Passion Sunday (Palm Sunday) with Mark’s passion story of chapters 14-15, saving the short Markan resurrection story of chapter 16 for Easter morning.
I’ll also provide a 45 minute Bible study following worship each Sunday in Lent beginning on March 8. The study each week will reflect the three or so chapters read during worship with a two-page study guide. In this Bible study, I’ll be approaching the gospel of Mark from literary perspectives that mostly ask questions about the gospel structure and intended perspectives of the gospel writer.
Since the Sundays of Lent (beginning March 
will be a five-week series of unique dramatic readings of Mark, those five weeks provide an excellent reason to commit to weekly worship throughout the season of Lent and Holy Week. The series also provides an excellent opportunity and reason to invite friends or family to join you for a unique worship experience during Lent.
Lent 2009 – Wednesday Noon Worship with Luncheons Beforehand
Beginning on Ash Wednesday (February 25) a noon worship service will occur each Wednesday at St. John’s throughout Lent (to Palm Sunday). A weekly “Comfort-Food-Luncheon” has been organized to begin at 11:00 AM each of the Wednesdays of Lent preceding the noon worship. (Since a luncheon wasn’t scheduled as of this writing for Ash Wednesday, I have decided to provide a kettle of potato soup and a pot of chili during the hour before the noon Ash Wednesday service.) This is a wonderful opportunity to invite family and friends to join you for a luncheon and worship service each Wednesday.
The Wednesday worship services in Lent will be include lectionary readings for the week and a brief message. As mentioned, the liturgy will make use of music from ELW Setting 5.
Lent 2009 – A Couple of Prayer Labyrinths to Use During the Week?
I hope to make at least one or two prayer labyrinths that will be available during the weekdays in Lent. A prayer labyrinth is a pathway that one slowly walks while in a spiritually tuned frame of mind as a means to focus on prayer. Walking a labyrinth could be a weekly or daily experience for people at St. John’s. Watch for more information as we get near to Ash Wednesday.
Lent 2009 – Two Movie Nights at St. John’s
We’ll decide at the 1st Wednesday Potluck Meal on February 4 (5:15 PM) whether we’ll continue the 1st Wednesday Fellowship Potluck Suppers during Lent. Regardless of that decision, I’ve scheduled the showing of two movies on the 1st Wednesdays of the month during Lent, the recent Chronicles of Narnia movies. I’ll begin the showing the movies in the Naomi room at 6:00 PM. The movies are based on the C.S. Lewis books of the same name. They depict in uniquely creative ways the story of Christ’s passion and ongoing faith-life realities.
March 4 – 1st Wednesday of March: The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe, 6:00 PM
April 1 – 1st Wednesday of April: Prince Caspian, 6:00 PM
Put these fellowship events on your family calendar. The movies are appropriate for all ages. I’m confident you’ll enjoy the movies and will find that they enhance your experience of the Lenten season.
Hospital Visits and Notifications
The HIPAA Privacy Rule has dramatically changed how information about hospitalizations is shared with others. As a chaplain and parish pastor I used to be able to walk into a hospital and look over the listing of patients. I could search for people from my congregation and others for whom I might have pastoral concern. That level of information sharing is no longer available.
I now learn of hospitalizations primarily in two ways. One: a patient or family member informs the church office directly. Two: a hospital notifies a congregation after having been given permission by a patient. If a hospital visit by a pastor is important, the first approach is always best… to notify the church office of such an interest as soon as possible (since hospital stays have become much shorter in recent years).
Lent 2009 – Worship Schedule During Lent and Holy Week
|
Day |
Date |
Time |
Description |
|
Wednesday (Ash Wednesday) |
February 25 |
|
(no pre-service luncheon this week) |
|
12:00 PM |
Imposition of Ashes Worship |
||
|
6:00 PM |
Imposition of Ashes Worship |
||
|
Sunday (Lent 1) |
March 1 |
9:00 AM |
Sunday Worship led by |
|
Wednesday
(1st Wednesday of March) |
March 4
|
Beginning at 11:00 AM |
Pre-Service Luncheon |
|
12:00 PM |
Wednesday Worship – Week 1 |
||
|
5:15 PM |
1st Wed. Fellowship Potluck (?) |
||
|
6:00 PM |
Movie: Lion Witch & Wardrobe |
||
|
Sunday (Lent 2) |
March 8 |
9:00 AM |
Sunday Worship Bible Study follows worship |
|
Wednesday |
March 11 |
Beginning at 11:00 AM |
Pre-Service Luncheon |
|
12:00 PM |
Wednesday Worship – Week 2 |
||
|
Sunday (Lent 3) |
March 15 |
9:00 AM |
Sunday Worship Bible Study follows worship |
|
Wednesday |
March 18 |
Beginning at 11:00 AM |
Pre-Service Luncheon |
|
12:00 PM |
Wednesday Worship – Week 3 |
||
|
Sunday (Lent 4) |
March 22 |
9:00 AM |
Sunday Worship Bible Study follows worship |
|
Wednesday |
March 25 |
Beginning at 11:00 AM |
Pre-Service Luncheon |
|
12:00 PM |
Wednesday Worship – Week 4 |
||
|
Sunday (Lent 5) |
March 29 |
9:00 AM |
Sunday Worship Bible Study follows worship |
|
Wednesday
(1st Wednesday of April) |
April 1 |
Beginning at 11:00 AM |
Pre-Service Luncheon |
|
12:00 PM |
Wednesday Worship – Week 5 |
||
|
5:15 PM |
1st Wed. Fellowship Potluck (?) |
||
|
6:00 PM |
Movie: Prince Caspian |
||
|
Sunday (Passion Sunday) |
April 5 |
9:00 AM |
Sunday Worship Bible Study follows worship |
|
Thursday (Maundy Thursday) |
April 9 |
12:00 PM |
Maundy Thursday Worship |
|
6:00 PM |
Maundy Thursday Worship |
||
|
Friday (Good Friday) |
April 10 |
12:00 PM |
Prayer Vigil |
|
12:30 PM |
Good Friday Worship |
||
|
Sunday (Easter Day) |
April 12 |
7:00 AM |
Easter Vigil Worship |
|
Beginning at 8:00 AM |
Easter Breakfast |
||
|
10:00 AM |
Easter Worship |
February 1, 2009
Informational Meetings for Those Interested in Being Part of a Call Committee – Today
The council is beginning to consider the appointing of a Call Committee for the call process that is underway. If you are interested in learning more about this and/or wish to be a part of the call committee, and informational meeting is right after today’s worship.
First Wednesday Potluck Supper – THIS Wednesday at 5:15 PM – Join Us!
I’ll provide a couple of “main-dish” contributions. The rest is potluck (dessert, drink, salad, set-up, clean-up, etc.) I’m confident enough food will be available for those not able to make a food contribution… just join us for a fellowship meal.
Choir for Easter – A Cantata!
A choir is forming to learn and present an Easter cantata called “Out of the Shadows.” The first rehearsal happened this past week and will continue until the performance on Sunday, April 26. The group on Wednesday liked the music and thought its difficulty level to be sufficiently challenging but certainly “do-able”. Join us for Wednesday choir rehearsals at 7:00 PM. Sue Kennon is directing the choir and can provide more info.
ATT – Ask/Thank/Tell – A Different Approach to the Tasks of Stewardship
The Stewardship Committee decided to reorganize itself into three “work-groups” based on an Ask/Thank/Tell model. That is… one work-group will be dedicated to the task of “asking” people to support and contribute, another work-group will endeavor to “thank” people for the giving and support. A third work-group will focus on telling the stories of ministries happening in the congregation and wider church. Consider which of the groups you would enjoy being a part of.
February 21, 2009
Two Special Congregational Meeting Questions – Sunday, March 8, 2009 at 10 AM
1. Shall the council be directed to obtain a line of credit for up to $30,000 for cash-flow?
2. Shall the constitution be modified to reflect actual Nominating Committee practices?
Details about both issues will be included in the next newsletter being organized right now.
Ash Wednesday – THIS WEEK! – 12:00 & 6:00 PM
Ash Wednesday (THIS Wednesday) begins the season of Lent. Six weeks later the season is concluded with the powerful Holy Week worship experience: Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and Easter. Join us at noon or 6 PM this Wednesday to begin your Lenten journey. Commit to regular worship throughout the season.
Sundays in Lent – Liturgy Music: ELW Setting Five (also used in Wednesday worship)
The liturgy music will be Setting Five throughout the season. Some people tell me that it is “sort-of” familiar. Others do no recognize the music. Setting Five (of the new hymnal) is the same as Setting Three of the former green hymnal (produced in 1978). That setting was based on Setting Two of the old red hymnal (SBH… produced in 1958.)
Setting Five has the oldest musical roots of the ten settings in the new hymnal. It has a more chant-like quality and supports the nature of Lenten worship. I ask people to be patient in learning the music of Setting Five. It could become added to the worship liturgy “repertoire” of St. John’s. (Settings 3, 4, 10 are already “standards”.)
Sundays in Lent – Dramatic Reading of Gospel of the Mark – Weekly Bible Studies
Beginning on March 8, I’ll present a dramatic reading of about three chapters of Mark each week (these will be my “sermons”). I’ve done this occasionally throughout my ministry, the first time in 1980. I’m confident that those who commit to worshipping each week during Lent (including Palm Sunday) will find this a meaningful experience.
Each Sunday, following worship, I’ll offer a 45 minute Bible Study on the material presented in worship. I’ll use a literary approach to the gospel and provide a brief commentary that can help people see the gospel as a whole and as a literary work.
Wednesday Worship in Lent – “Five Covenants” – Luncheon Before Worship
Using the unread scripture readings from the Sundays in Lent (1st and 2nd readings) the Wednesday noon services will focus on five distinctive covenants God makes with the Hebrew people of the Old Testament. Join us each week for this series. Also, a “comfort-food” luncheon will be offered beginning at 11:00 AM starting March 4.
A Couple of Prayer Labyrinths will be Available Throughout Lent
I’ll be making some prayer labyrinths (one in the gym, one in the sanctuary) that can be useful for personal devotional or prayer experiences. They will be available throughout Lent. With the locked doors it’s important to call ahead to be sure somebody is around.
A Reminder About Handicap Parking Spaces: I was asked to remind people that a number of parking spaces around the church are clearly marked as reserved for those who display a state-issued handicap parking permit visibly hanging in the windshield. (Three of the spaces so marked also indicate that they are effective Only On Sunday and may be used by anyone during the other six days.)
I write this as my own reminder, since I find myself using the spaces once in a while… and I really oughtn’t. My “justification” is that “nobody is going to want the spot right now…” No, it really doesn’t sound like a good excuse for me when I write it out, does it? “Ok, Ted,” I need to say to myself, “just drive and walk the extra 30 feet to an unmarked spot… and rejoice at your capacity to walk comfortably.”
NOTE – Easter Sunday Worship is NOT at 9:00 AM but is moved to 10:00 AM
I made an error in the worship schedule I produced in last month’s newsletter. I indicated that the Easter Sunday worship services were at 7:00 and 9:00 AM with breakfast between. I was incorrect about the time of the second services. It will begin one hour later than usual… at 10:00 AM. Be sure to note the one-Sunday change of time.
First Wednesday Potluck Meals – Continue in March and April – 5:15 PM
We’ll continue having the monthly potluck fellowship meal on the first Wednesday of the month beginning at 5:15 PM. Different people have come each month… some folks seem to show up every month. Join us, even if you don’t have opportunity to prepare something to share. There has always been sufficient food for additional people. The fellowship potluck meals will occur on March 4 and April 1.
First Wednesday Potluck Meals – Movie Nights at 6:00 PM in March and April
As part of the Lenten experience, I invite people to a couple of movie nights immediately following the 1st Wednesday Fellowship Potluck. They represent well C.S. Lewis’ famous novels, The Chronicles of Narnia. The first movie – The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe – is a fascinating depiction of truths basic in the Christian faith… elements of evil’s nature and effects, the power of redemption, the person-hood of Christ and the disciples, the wonder of God’s capacity to impact and renew life, the surprises of the life-in-Christ. The second movie in April is called: Prince Caspian.
Today – A Presentation by the Gideons – Special Offering Will Be Received
(The website of this non-denominational organization is: www.Gideons.org)
A representative of The Gideons International will share the sermon time with me this morning to describe some of the nature and accomplishments of their ministry, which occurs in over 185 countries around the world and involves more than 280,000 members.
(From the website… The Gideons “focus on distributing complete Bibles or New Testaments. These Scriptures are printed in more than 80 languages and are either given directly to certain individuals or placed in selected public locations where large numbers of people who may be searching for answers will have the ability to encounter the Word of God.”)
From a Brochure for Distribution to Others:
(done on a single page in 3 column, “Z” fold page)
(also distributed into neighborhoods)
We’ve Entered a Special Time of Year in the life of the Church
You are invited to Join Us in our weekly worship and in our special events planned for the Lenten season!
St. John’s Lutheran Church
(The Only Church on Main Street)
808 No. Main Street, Oshkosh
920-231-5480
St. John’s is part of the ELCA
(Evangelical Lutheran Church in America)
Sunday Worship: Worship is always at 9:00 AM on Sunday mornings.
Our services are liturgical (Gathering, Word, Meal, Sending) and the music is normally led by our pipe organ. Services on 2nd Sundays feature more stylized music led by various music groups and various instruments.
Holy Communion occurs each week and is offered to all who are in worship.
Sunday Worship in Lent: Beginning March 8 and completing on Easter morning, Pastor Johanson will present dramatic readings from the gospel of Mark. The entire gospel will be presented over the six weeks. Also, Pastor Johanson will lead a 45 minute Bible Study after each Sunday worship service (beginning at 10:15).
NOTE – Easter Sunday (April 12) will have different worship times: 7:00 AM and 10:00 AM. Also, there is no Bible Study on Easter. An Easter breakfast is offered beginning at 8:00 AM.
Wednesdays in Lent: Lenten Worship Services will occur each Wednesday at noon from March 4 to April 1. A “comfort-food” luncheon is served beginning at 11:00 AM.
The forty minute worship services will focus on five “covenants” God made with God’s people. Communion will be included each week with fresh home-baked bread. Olivewood chalices (carved in Bethlehem) will be used for the wine.
1st Wednesday Fellowship Potluck and Movie: We’ve been enjoying a monthly fellowship potluck supper beginning at 5:15 PM each 1st Wednesday. They will occur again on March 4 & April 1. Also, afterward, those interested will be viewing a movie beginning at 6:00 PM.
March 4 Movie (6 PM): The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe
April 1 Movie (6 PM): Prince Caspian
From the Desk of Pastor Ted…
Month of March, 2009 (the most recent material is on last page)
Sunday Bulletin Articles, Newsletter Information, and Report to the Council
Newsletter – March 2009
Sundays in Lent – Liturgy Music: ELW Setting Five (also used in Wednesday worship)
The liturgy music will be Setting Five throughout the season of Lent this year. Some people tell me that it is “sort-of” familiar. Others do not recognize the music. Setting Five (of the new hymnal) is the same as Setting Three of the former green hymnal (produced in 1978). That setting was based on Setting Two of the old red hymnal (SBH… the Continental Setting by Regina Fryxell was based partly on 10th century plainsong).
Setting Five thus has the oldest musical roots of the ten settings in the new hymnal. It has a more chant-like quality and supports the nature of Lenten worship. I ask people to be patient in learning the music of Setting Five. It could become added to the worship liturgy “repertoire” of St. John’s. (Settings 3, 4, 10 are already “standards”.)
Sundays in Lent – Dramatic Reading of Gospel of the Mark – Weekly Bible Studies
Beginning on March 8, I’ll present a dramatic reading of about three chapters of Mark each week (these will be my “sermons”). I’ve done this occasionally throughout my ministry, the first time in 1980. I’m confident that those who commit to worshipping each week during Lent (including Palm Sunday) will find this a meaningful experience.
Each Sunday, following worship, I’ll offer a 45 minute Bible Study on the material presented in worship. I’ll use a literary approach to the gospel and provide a brief commentary that can help people see the gospel as a whole and as a profoundly crafted literary work.
Wednesday Worship in Lent – “Five Covenants” – Luncheon Before Worship
Using the unread scripture readings from the Sundays in Lent (1st and 2nd readings) the Wednesday noon services will focus on five distinctive covenants God makes with the Hebrew people of the Old Testament. Join us each week for this series. Also, a “comfort-food” luncheon will be offered beginning at 11:00 AM starting March 4.
A Couple of Prayer Labyrinths will be Available Throughout Lent
I’ll be making some prayer labyrinths (one in the gym, one in the sanctuary) that can be useful for personal devotional or prayer experiences. They will be available throughout Lent. (With the locked doors it’s important to call ahead to be sure somebody is around to let you in.)
A Reminder About Handicap Parking Spaces
I was asked to remind people that a number of parking spaces around the church are clearly marked as reserved for those who display a state-issued handicap parking permit visibly hanging in the windshield. (Three of the spaces so marked also indicate that they are effective Only On Sunday and may be used by anyone during the other six days.)
I write this as my own reminder, since I find myself using the spaces once in a while… and I really oughtn’t. My “justification” is that “nobody is going to want the spot right now…” No, it really doesn’t sound like a good excuse for me when I write it out, does it? “Ok, Ted,” I need to say to myself, “just drive and walk the extra 30 feet to an unmarked spot… and rejoice at your capacity to walk comfortably.”
First Wednesday Potluck Meals – Continue in March and April – 5:15 PM
We’ll continue having the monthly potluck fellowship meal on the first Wednesday of the month beginning at 5:15 PM. Different people have come each month… some folks seem to show up every month. Join us, even if you don’t have opportunity to prepare something to share. There has always been sufficient food for additional people. The fellowship potluck meals will occur on March 4 and April 1 (again… beginning at 5:15 PM).
First Wednesday Potluck Meals – Movie Nights at 6:00 PM in March and April
As part of the Lenten experience, I invite people to a couple of movie nights immediately following the 1st Wednesday Fellowship Potluck. They effectively present two of C.S. Lewis’ famous fantasy novels, The Chronicles of Narnia. In these “children’s stories”, C.S. Lewis reflects some of his theological perspective and life experience in the interesting characters that include four children in the midst of England’s WWII time period and the talking animals of Narnia. A central character is a lion – the king of all beasts – who has the nature and role of Jesus Christ “in our world.” Both of these movies were produced by Walt Disney Pictures.
The first movie to be shown on Wednesday, March 4 at 6:00 PM – The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe – is a fascinating depiction of truths that are basic in the Christian faith… elements of evil’s nature and effects, the power of redemption, the person-hood of Christ and the disciples, the power of giving self for others, the wonder of God’s capacity to impact and renew life, the surprises of the life-in-Christ. The story is a faithful yet fantastic telling of the passion and resurrection of Jesus, and connects well with our own Lent/Easter journey.
The second movie to be shown on Wednesday, April 1 at 6:00 PM is called: Prince Caspian. It occurs in Narnia 1,300 years after the scene of the first movie. Only now, Narnia has been “invaded” by new human forces that again threaten Narnia’s order and nature. The high-action movie depicts the same four children from the first movie who are “called” to help Narnia again through the blowing of a horn. The characters are further developed and are descriptive of human struggles in life and faith.
Church Nursery – Some Vision for the Future
Shannon Witt and her family have begun work to reestablish a Sunday nursery, beginning with painting and furnishing of the room mostly destroyed by the water damage last summer. It will take some time to carry out the work and to arrange for people to staff the room during worship. Perhaps even more important is to effectively advertize to the Oshkosh community that worship at St. John’s includes childcare. The council and I welcome and appreciate Shannon’s willingness and passion toward this aspect of congregational life.
I can’t help but wonder if a high priority needs to be developed toward inviting, rallying, welcoming, embracing and supporting young families into the life of St. John’s. If so, this needs to be articulated as a primary concern for the congregation and for the next pastor of St. John’s. Such a focus requires certain qualities and passions. It would likely require a type of pastor different from what has been typical at St. John’s for many decades. It would also require changes in how the congregation thinks about and responds to the needs of young families with babies and children. I’ve heard some “horror stories” in this regard that simply would need to change for this ministry approach to be effective and meaningful for the future of St. John’s.
Communion for ALL the Baptized – That Invitation Includes ALL Ages
I’ve specifically asked of the council its position about inviting ALL the baptized to Holy Communion, regardless of age. When I think about this invitation, I think about ALL ages… 5th grade, 5 years old, 2 years old, toddler, newly baptized infant. Our ELCA articulates such a welcome and inclusiveness. The decision about who receives bread and/or wine and when it is received in a child’s life is best made with a combination of:
- A congregation that embraces the invitation to ALL the baptized (council supports this)
- A pastor who is comfortable with this invitation (I am one of those pastors)
- Parents who are comfortable with a decision for their child to receive bread and/or wine
- A child who expresses interest in participating, who approach the table with a sense of communion being “for you” as Luther expresses (I see most children express such an interest as they observe their parents receiving the bread… they often also reach out)
I’ll offer a brief time of instruction about this to parents and children immediately following Sunday worship on March 15, 22, 29 (the last three Sundays of March). I’ll also speak about this briefly in worship several times during Lent. An appropriate time to recognize all who have recently begun receiving Holy Communion is the Maundy Thursday worship services (April 9 at 12:00 & 6:00 PM). Those who worship at the Maundy Thursday services will be invited to keep their communion chalice from the service (carved from olive wood in Bethlehem) as a remembrance.
Special Congregational Meeting Questions – Sunday, March 8, 2009 at 10 AM
Two questions will be posed at this special meeting of the congregation.
Question 1. Shall the council be directed to obtain a line of credit for up to $30,000 for cash-flow?
Supporting information:
- To manage the growing deficit between local giving (general fund) and actual budgeted expenses, and because the Patri Fund has already been borrowed to cover the deficit from 2008, the council has made arrangements with Westpoint Bank (with which the congregation has the bulk of its financial dealings) to obtain a line-of-credit of up to $30,000.
- This line-of-credit will be drawn only as needed to support cash flow for prompt payment of bills when giving has been insufficient to cover all budgeted expenses.
- Using its own constitutional authority, the council has already drawn $5,000 of the planned $30,000 maximum to support current cash flow needs. Congregational approval is needed beyond $5,000.
- The interest and liability information will be available at the special congregational meeting.
- Because of the pastoral transition, a number of options exist that could be enacted in 2009 to help with the deficit situation and make provision for repayment of borrowed credit.
- It is vitally important to consider this reality in terms a new pastoral call.
Question 2. Shall the constitution be modified to reflect actual Nominating Committee practices?
Supporting Information:
- Technically, the constitution wording indicates that two outgoing council members shall be elected by the congregation to the new Nominating Committee along the other four other members at the annual meeting. That doesn’t really happen this way. Instead, at the end of the year the council appoints two outgoing council people.
- To change a constitutional item, three requirements must be met:
o the congregation must be notified at least 30 days in advance of the meeting
o the change must be approved by the majority of an annual or special congregational meeting
o it must be ratified at the next annual meeting by a two-thirds majority.
- This notice and a “yes” vote on March 8 will satisfy the first requirement. Another congregational meeting is needed for the second requirement, and a subsequent annual meeting enacts the change.
- The following change is proposed to C13.02:
A Nominating Committee of six voting members of this congregation, two of whom shall be outgoing members of the Congregation Council, [shall consist of four members who] shall be elected at the annual meeting for a term of one year [and outgoing members of the Congregation Council]. Members of the Nomination Committee are not eligible for consecutive reelection.
Challenge to the Congregation for Extra Effort Giving
To help with the deficit that has formed by 2008 finance realities and a continuing shortfall of income relative to budget expenses, the council has taken on a challenge to itself and to members of the congregation. What is hoped for in this challenge is twenty gifts of $500 that is over and above regular giving. This would generate enough funds to pay for all current bills and bring the deficit back to an even level.
It is understood that people continue to be faithful in their ongoing support to St. John’s and for that much appreciation and thanks are given. It is understood that general decline in financial strength has been a trend at St. John’s for about 15 years… for various reasons. It is understood that while a deficit confronts the congregation right now it is not the first time such a challenge has emerged; for instance, council information and newsletter articles of five years ago sound very similar to right now… yet the life of the congregation has continued to be meaningful and filled with ministry. It is understood that current financial difficulties all around are challenging.
Consider how you might offer a special financial gift in the next few weeks to support the current challenges. The council leadership will continue working to keep expenses as low as possible while also managing the expenses needed to keep the ministry and building functioning.
The Council Has Appointed a Call Committee: Paula Schmidt, MaryAnn Monteith, Doris Matulle, Louise Koehler, Jack Schroeder / Suzanne Schroeder (1 is a committee member and the other an alternate), Karen Fenrich / Hope Fenrich (1 is a committee member and the other an alternate), Sheilia Witt (alternate)
From the Desk of Pastor Ted…
Month of April, 2009 (the most recent material is on last page)
Sunday Bulletin Articles, Newsletter Information, and Report to the Council
Newsletter – April 2009
Communion Is Offered to ALL the Baptized
St. John’s Lutheran extends an invitation to ALL the baptized to participate in Holy Communion. The Congregation Council affirmed this with me a few months ago. This invitation is entirely consistent with ELCA perspectives and practices. Elsewhere in this newsletter is information from the ELCA Worship FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions).
The word “ALL” of the communion invitation should be regarded as just that… ALL… regardless of age or thinking capacity. The invitation should be thought of in a way similar to the invitation to baptism. When baptizing a child or infant, the parents, sponsors, congregation and pastor all promise to mutually assist the baptized to learn more and more over the years about what the person’s baptism means and what it is to live as one of God’s people, made so by God’s action and covenant in baptism. We do not demand a certain level of knowledge or understanding from the person being baptized, but rather we trust in God’s action in the water and Word proclaimed within and by the body-of-Christ… the assembled people of God.
In a similar manner, we proclaim trust in God’s action in the shared wine/bread and Word proclaimed within and by the body-of-Christ… the assembled people of God. In this trust and faithful perspective it is appropriate to extend communion to ALL the baptized. And, of course, with that action it is important to provide ongoing teaching about communion so that ALL those gathered have a growing and mutual understanding of the sacrament. I’ll be focusing on Holy Communion several times during the seven weeks of Easter.
Maundy Thursday Worship – “First” Communion
The upcoming Maundy Thursday service during Holy Week provides a unique worship event focusing on Holy Communion that can be a special time for people to begin receiving the sacrament (of course, any time of year is appropriate for this). I’ll be glad to meet with any parent who would like their child to begin receiving communion on Maundy Thursday or a Sunday service. Again, it is appropriate for ALL the baptized to be included in this gift-of-God for the people-of-God. The best indicator of when a child is “ready” to participate is when they show an interest… which I see happen VERY early in a child’s life… such as when they see mom and dad receiving the sacramental gifts… and they want it too. (I can explain to parents some good options in how an infant or child might receive the bread and/or wine.) At such a point, teaching easily can begin… “This is Jesus for you; God loves you very much.” A similar teaching point can be made when a child touches the water in the baptism font and perhaps makes a sign of the cross… “God loves you very much; in baptism you are a child of God.) I think that these ideas provide a great beginning understanding of our two sacraments.
Extending the Interim Contract – Interim “Tasks”
The contract I have with the Congregation Council for Intentional Interim Ministry is intentionally for only a six-month period, requiring evaluation and council decision on a regular basis. In its most recent meeting, the council needed to decide whether to engage in another contract period… and whether to change any of the contract terms. A decision was made to continue the contract without change for up to six more months as needed. Although no contract details were changed, some of the interim processes and issues are quite different now from those of a year ago. I note several of the current concerns below:
- More clarity and specific details of possible renovation work have been identified and are being sharpened for actual congregational decision. Three specific changes are being explored: widening the northeast doorway to the sanctuary, opening the office area between the sanctuary and gym to create a gathering space, and creation of a main floor restroom in a space now used for a closet and stage steps. (One additional smaller idea is being explored… how to perhaps connect these spaces more effectively with the existing Naomi room… such as adding an opening from the hallway.) All of these projects require congregational decision before entering contracts for construction along with plans to cover costs.
- The outside steps to the sanctuary from Main Street need work… and now that the snow is leaving such work can begin. The current plan, to construct new steps on top of existing steps, will cost around $15,000. Some funds have been received for this purpose but only a small portion so far of the expected need. More clarity must develop in how this project will be paid for before the construction begins… but the time for such clarity is upon us.
- The organ console project continues and progress is being made. Most of this work occurs before actually seeing anything happen. A specific console must be found and modified to exactly fit St. John’s organ requirements. That work is being done. Actual construction in the sanctuary is much more minimal than all the “pre-work” currently being done.
- Some committee reshaping is being done to better reflect leadership realities and congregational needs. The Stewardship Committee is beginning to function as the ATT Committee (Ask, Thank, Tell) and would like to involve more people on each of the three “sub-committees). I’d also like to see consideration about forming a single functioning committee to support the congregation’s Learning, Evangelizing, Growing, and Serving.
- Some specific ideas may begin to emerge relative to how to best shape the next pastoral call. The Congregation Mission Profile has begun but much more is needed to make it a well functioning document.
Holy Week – The “Three Days”
Holy Week begins with the “Sunday of the Passion” (or Palm Sunday) and culminates with the Three Days worship: Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and Easter Vigil. The Three Days worship reflects the oldest liturgical celebrations in the life of the church, even that of the church’s earliest years. The Three Days is the most intensive, powerful, and central worship event of the entire year. It is so significant that it literally occurs over three separate days. Plan to be a part of all of Holy Week’s worship, particularly the Three Days.
Sunday of the Passion is on April 5. We’ll start the service in the gym with some special music and a liturgy that begins a procession into the sanctuary. The Word section will include a dramatic narration of the passion story as told in Mark, chapters 14-15. This experience prepares us for the dramatic Three Days that occurs in the latter part of Holy Week.
Maundy Thursday begins the Three Days worship (Thursday, April 9 at 12 & 6 PM). “Maundy” comes from the Latin word behind our English word, mandate. Jesus gave his disciples a mandate… to love in the ways Jesus demonstrated within his own life. Holy Communion is a central part of the service and will feature home-baked bread and use of a pouring chalice for the wine. Individual olive-wood cups made in Bethlehem will be used, as has occurred each Wednesday in Lent. I’ll invite people to keep their communion cup as a reminder of this particular time in the life and ministry of St. John’s.
Good Friday continues the Three Days worship with a focus on the cross of Christ. (The liturgies for the Three Days worship are part of the new ELW hymnal.) The Good Friday liturgy begins at 12:30 PM on Friday, April 10. Time for personal reflection will begin at noon; I’ll provide personal devotional material for this meditative time preceding the service.
Easter Vigil is the singular “high-holy” worship event of the church year, culminating the Holy Week experience. It historically occurs on the eve of Easter (Saturday evening) but will instead shape the earlier Easter morning service (7 AM on Sunday, April 12). The service begins with the somber, reflective mood of Good Friday and is transformed partway through the worship time into the beauty and joy of Easter’s celebration of Jesus’ resurrection. The service includes Affirmation of Baptism (and “confirmation”) along with Holy Communion. The Word section will be the 16th chapter of Mark concerning the resurrection, thus concluding the dramatic reading of the entire gospel of Mark which has occurred on Sundays throughout Lent.
Bishop Jim Justman Visits St. John’s – Wednesday, April 1
Bishop Jim Justman has been deeply connected with St. John’s for a very long time, having actually been baptized in St. John’s baptismal font. He continues to work with the current call process. As such, he will visit St. John’s on Wednesday, April 1… beginning with the Lenten meal at 11 AM, presiding at the Lenten worship service at 12 PM, and providing an open meeting to the Call Committee, Council, and ALL members immediately following worship (about 12:45 PM.) Join us for the special visit. It is a great opportunity to ask questions and hear Bishop Justman’s perspectives about the congregation relative to the current call process.
A Goal: Twenty Extra Gifts of at Least $500
Wow! The Congregation Council raised a challenging appeal for twenty gifts of at least $500 above regular giving. By the middle of March, nine people made such gifts… accruing $9,000. Wow! Thank you! And, thank you to all who continue to faithfully support the life and ministry of St. John’s Lutheran Church through your regular and extra effort giving.
The appeal and the financial needs continue. The council leaders continue to place the challenge to themselves and to the congregation for eleven more gifts of at least $500 above regular giving to help ease the current deficit. Be a part of this challenging appeal.
From the ELCA Website – Worship FAQs:
At what age do ELCA congregations allow members their first Communion?
First communion can and does happen at many different ages throughout congregations of the ELCA. The Use of the Means of Grace: A Statement on the Practice of Word and Sacrament of 1997 says, “There is no command from our Lord regarding the age at which people should be…first communed.” As a result, the age at which baptized members of our congregations receive their first communion reflects a variety of practices and understandings.
Some congregations follow a pattern familiar to older generations of Lutherans: first communion is received at the time of confirmation. A generation ago, many of our congregations began preparing catechetical material for children to receive their first communion when they reached fifth grade. Today there is a growing awareness that focus on one particular age group may not be the primary factor to determine when first communion is received. In fact, historical studies of the early church and the witness of other denominations in our day have led both congregations and members to ask about the possibility of communing of infants, a practice precluded by an earlier communion practices statement.
Although no particular age is prescribed by The Use of the Means of Grace, one guideline is offered. Because admission to the Sacrament is by invitation of the Lord to the baptized, “baptized children begin to commune on a regular basis at a time determined through mutual conversation that includes the pastor, the child, and the parents or sponsors involved, within the accepted practices of the congregation.” Each congregation is encouraged to ask the question of readiness for first communion, establish their own policies regarding age and practice, and accompany that practice with catechesis appropriate to the age of the communicant.
When congregations receive children as members from another congregation where those children have been accepted as communing members, they should welcome and receive such children as communing members, perhaps as an exception to the congregation’s own policy. This may result in diversity of ages regularly receiving the sacrament even within a congregation itself.
The present differences of practice among parishes within the ELCA will continue to hold the question of age for first communion before congregations and members. Addressing that question will involve reviewing particular practices against biblical and confessional norms and will continue to encourage ongoing theological reflection and pastoral wisdom.