From the Desk of Pastor Ted…

 

Month of November (the most recent material is on last page)

Sunday Bulletin Articles, Newsletter Information, and Report to the Council

 

 

Newsletter Article – November 2008

Worship Planning for November

The church year ends and begins anew this month.  Join us each Sunday for the special emphasis services being planned.  The following describes worship for the five Sundays of November:

 

1. All Saints Sunday (Nov. 2) – The first Sunday of November is the traditional All Saints Sunday during which we remember the saints of St. John’s who died in the faith since last year’s All Saints Sunday or who have received St. John’s funeral ministry during the past year.  The worship service will include a traditional reading of names while lighting a candle and tolling the church bell for each.  The service is a powerful mixture of grieving the loss of loved ones while also celebrating the hope of the gospel proclaimed by the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

      Special music is planned that includes handbells, brass arrangements, a chanted Psalm, and hymns of the day (For All the Saints, Behold the Host Arrayed in White).  The opening hymn, Holy God, We Praise Your Name, is musically arranged to create a spiritual kind of feeling (like the heavenly gathering of the saints) in which we frame our All Saints celebration.

 

2. Healing Liturgy  (Nov. 9) – As has been the case for the past six months, the 2^nd Sunday of the month will be planned in more EPIC styles (an acronym meaning: Experiential, Participatory, Image-rich, and Connecting) that uses music led by a small group around the piano.  That pattern continues with November’s 2^nd Sunday… which will also include a Healing liturgy occurring shortly after the sermon.  A Healing liturgy is part of the Life Passages section of the new ELW hymnal (which also includes liturgies for a funeral and marriage).  The Healing liturgy will include a time of prayer during which people who wish to participate may come forward to the altar railing to receive a laying-on-of-hands blessing, anointing with oil, and prayer for healing and wholeness.

     

3. Christ the King (Nov. 16) – This is the last Sunday of the church year.  A unique liturgy has been shaped for the celebrative day which takes the worshipping body briefly through the whole church year, describing and lifting up the six major church year seasons: Advent, Christmas, Epiphany, Lent, Easter, and Pentecost.  An introduction, reading, hymn and prayer will occur for each season.  It is a meaningful way to experience in a single worship service the flow of the whole church year with its various seasons.  The service concludes with a focus on the last Sunday of the year… Christ the King.  I’ve led various forms of this special liturgy many times over the years and have often heard people state that they found the service to be one of their most interesting and appreciated worship experiences.

 

4. Advent Begins (Nov. 23) – The new Church Year begins with Advent.  The word advent means “the coming/arrival of something very important” such as “we saw the advent of the home computer in the 1980’s.”  As we begin a new year in the worship calendar we use the four weeks of Advent to prepare and anticipate the celebration of Christmas (God comes to human life in the person of Jesus).  It is a time during which the sanctuary is decorated, the mood is decidedly hopeful and optimistic, and we become watchful for the indications of God breaking into human life.

 

5. Hymn Sing (Nov. 30) – Fifth Sundays (of a month) at St. John’s usually include hymn sings in which the hymns of the worship service are selected by members of the congregation, often as spontaneous requests.  I’d like to try organizing the hymns beforehand this month.  I invite people over the next weeks to let me know of a favorite hymn that hasn’t been sung in church for a while and I’ll try to include as many of these requested hymns as I can into the worship service.  So… let me know your favorites and help to plan the music for the next 5^th Sunday worship.

What is the Status of the Roof Replacement Project?

This question came to the council in its October meeting and it was thought important to update the congregation.  The project is basically where it was earlier this year.  The congregation, in its 2008 annual meeting, approved a contract to replace the roof of the church… but only when funds are amassed to pay for the project.  Because a fund-raising group wasn’t formed the appeal for funds has only been generic.  That is, a few people have made some donations toward the $65,000 roofing project accumulating around $1,000 so far.  The donations are appreciated and are being held appropriately.  I suspect that without a person willing to chair/organize a fund-raising group for an intentional appeal the project will not progress very far.  I’m confident that the council would gladly receive such a volunteer.  One good thing… the roof is reasonably viable and does not leak right now.  (Water problems this summer were caused by some clogged roof drains.)

What is the Status of the Broken Front Steps?

Again, this is a building problem that hasn’t moved very far toward a repair or renovation.  Some contractors have been contacted but weren’t interested in the job.  I suspect the broken front steps are a bit similar to the roof replacement issue.  Both are rather expensive repair needs that haven’t generated sufficient interest (perhaps better a better word is anxiety) for needed action.  Neither project is forgotten; neither project currently seems to be a “core problem” of St. John’s “demanding” immediate response.

What is the Status of Renovation Work?

The Renovation Task Force has requested the information sought by the August congregational meeting.  The group now awaits replies (specific estimates/bids) from various contractors.  When the information is available options can be made available to the congregation for further consideration and decision.

What is the Status of the Organ Console Replacement?

Another approval by the August congregational meeting was to replace the organ console with money already donated for this purpose.  Work has begun; details are forming.  Right now, it looks like the installation will occur sometime in early 2009.

      Some of the details require thoughtful consideration… such as what color to use in staining the wood of the new console.  For instance, will the wood in the front of the sanctuary remain exactly as is or will an eventual renovation include a change of color due to refinishing?  What impact will the relocation have to the front of the sanctuary?  Challenging questions, I think… but the process is continuing.

What is the Status of the 2009 Spending Plan (usually referred to as the Budget)?

(I offer some of my general impressions.)  Work has begun by committees to shape a spending plan (budget) for 2009 at St. John’s.  The current year is progressing reasonably with a deficit level about like that of the most recent years.  A corresponding perspective (some good news) is that the congregation was able to pay off its deficit from 2006 & 2007 (about $10,000).  Another perspective to note is that the current 2008 budget approximates a basic and minimal level of operation for a congregation of this size and shape.  In other words, there really are not budget areas in which feasible spending cuts can be made without significantly altering the congregation’s life and “lifestyle”.  More specific information will be available soon.

What is the Status of the Interim Ministry and Call Process?

First of all, recognize that all pastoral calls are temporary.  I’ve observed regular “permanent” calls in congregations to range in duration from a few weeks to a few years to a few decades.  What I haven’t observed yet is a pastoral call that was actually “permanent”… in other words, all pastoral calls draw to an end, many sooner than hoped for.  Thus, in a sense, it can be said that ALL pastors receive calls that are temporary… they last until they end.  I’m stating this all too obvious fact because I know how an interim time can feel when people view transition periods (like that of interim ministry) as a negative thing that is only “fixed” when a “permanent” pastor is called (sometimes referred to as “getting a real pastor”.)  I am an interim pastor… but, at the same time, I am also now the real “permanent” pastor of St. John’s… until my pastoral ministry here ends… just like is the case with all of the other pastors who have served St. John’s.  It’s sometimes more about perceptions people create and hold than it is about actual “permanency”. 

      The interim contract will be reviewed by the council at least every six months; the council will always be able to conclude the contract at a time of their choice (with a 30-day notice.)  The council also has the responsibility to appoint a Call Committee at a time it determines to be most appropriate.  Such a committee is not yet formed.  I’ve understood that clearly resolving and/or actually completing current building issues will be important matters that the council will consider in determining when to form a Call Committee. 

      I’ve mentioned a shifting in the intentional aspects of my interim leadership… focusing more toward the present and future in terms of a vision for the life and ministry of St. John’s.  This is a particularly challenging part of the interim process… to help a congregational define as clearly as possible its identity and plan for its future life and ministry.  This is a crucial aspect in shaping a good match with a future pastor.

      I’m hopeful that this information at least is helpful in responding to the question above.  Using bullet points, I’d characterize the status of the Intentional Interim Ministry in this way:

•          There is ongoing full-time pastoral presence and leadership.
•          The interim process and status continues to be determined with the congregation council.
•          The financial cost of interim ministry corresponds to a “regular” pastoral call.
•          There is a shifting in emphasis toward the present and future: strengths, resources, options.
•          All parties continue to await clearer definition about various building issues.

Remember – The Strongest Support to St. John’s is YOUR Regular Worship!

Who Might Want to Receive Communion at Home by a Communion Extender?

In September, Pastor Ted began anew the ministry of extending Holy Communion by designated lay members to those who are not able to attend worship at St. John’s because of physical problems.  (The “Sending” liturgy on 1^st Sundays each month will include an appropriate prayer of commissioning for those who are extending communion to others.)  It is a generalized task of the whole congregation to create and maintain a listing of people who wish to receive the bread and wine of communion in this way.  Please contact the church office with your own interest in this ministry or with names of people that you think would appreciate receiving communion at home.

 

November 9, 2008

Decorating the Sanctuary for Advent and Christmas

I will be forming a group of people who shall plan the church decoration for the Advent/Christmas season.  This group will also carry out all of the decorating tasks.  Immediately after worship today (after I greet people at the door) I’ll meet in the sanctuary very briefly with folks who have this interest to set up an actual meeting time.

Fellowship Dinner at Church – 1^st Wednesdays of the Month at 5:15 PM

Three dozen folks gathered again last night just for the fun of sharing a meal together with others.  We’ll continue these monthly fellowship meals for a while.  I’ll continue to provide enough hot food for 40-50 folks and the rest of the meal will be potluck.  Plan to join us next month, Wednesday, December 3 for a 5:15 PM fellowship supper. 

      I received two suggestions to add to our time together: background music could be playing during the dinner and a few minutes could be taken to sing some hymns of faith.  Who knows, maybe other ideas could emerge.  I think I overheard one person suggest that interested people could stick around a little longer to engage in a board or card game after the meal.  That could be a fun way to enhance the monthly event.

Book of Faith – Connecting with the new ELCA Emphasis

The council has given me the “go-ahead” to begin helping the congregation learn more about what this new “Book-of-Faith.  I’ll begin providing information about this emphasis that ELCA congregations across the nations are becoming a part of.

 

November 13, 2008

Thank You to the Staff of St. John’s

Reflecting on six months on interim ministry, I express appreciation for the staff of St. John’s.

      Jan – The office of the congregation has many detailed areas to manage.  There are hard-copy records and files to keep in order and available for reference.  (I’ve gone through many of the files for information and perspective and have found the files in good and complete order.)  Weekly and monthly productions occur – bulletins, announcements, newsletters, mailings – that require various skills, planning, coordinating and good memory.  She has kept the staff organized and informed.  I’ve observed in my first six months here that the office has needed to manage all kinds of challenges and issues on a regular basis.  I think Jan manages these things as well as anyone else I’ve worked with over my years of ministry.

      Art - I’ve served on the staff of nearly two dozen congregations.  I’ve come to recognize the challenges and needs of maintaining good financial order.  I know the problems that arise in managing the business affairs of a congregation.  Most congregations I’ve worked with do not have business managers on staff; such issues were handled by volunteers.  The business affairs of St. John’s are much more complex than most congregations and require the diligence, energy and skills of a staff person like Art.  I’m glad not to have had the responsibility of dealing with the insurance issues of the flood.  I’m glad there are people working with Art to handle offerings and donations with good integrity.  It is my observation that the financial and business matters of St. John’s have solid integrity and forthcoming information accurately reflects finance realities.

      Sue – Wow… has Sue been a trooper this summer and fall.  Her ability to deftly handle the ideas I’ve tossed her way about music possibilities in worship is a testament to her musical skills.  As a pastor/musician, having been with many church musicians, I’ve experienced Sue to be as gracious and patient as any church musician I’ve worked with.  I especially enjoy her capacity to loosen up, improvise, and go with the flow.  St. John’s has a fine church musician in Sue.

      Ken – While Ken is not a staff person in the same kinds of capacities as the others, he is a tremendous asset to the congregation in terms of keeping a good eye on the building and just doing some of the things that need to be done.   I’ve appreciated his regular participation in weekly staff meetings.  He brings good insight and information to the discussions.  He also brings plenty of corny jokes, which I always appreciate.

Hymn Sing Sunday – In Two Weeks – Help Me Organize What We’ll Sing

As mentioned before, I’d like to organize the 5^th Sunday hymn sing this time.  Use this little “tear-off” area to suggest hymns you’d like to have included.  Thanks.

 

I’d like to sing (number or first line):  ____________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________

 

November 23, 2008

Decorating the Sanctuary for Advent and Christmas – Fellowship Potluck Meal

Those interested in planning, decorating and “de-decorating” the sanctuary for the Advent/Christmas season are asked to join us on Wednesday, December 3 at 6:00 PM.  No decorating decisions are yet made… and are deferred to those who join us on Dec. 3.

      What is becoming a monthly event, a First-Wednesday-Fellowship-Potluck-Supper, will begin at 5:15 PM on the same night, December 3.  Join us!  Enjoy the food, the fellowship, and the fun of decorating the sanctuary after the meal.

Worship Plans – Advent and Christmas

The four Advent worship services will be a bit unique.  The 1^st Sunday of Advent is the fifth Sunday of November and thus will include hymn sings.  The 2^nd Sunday of Advent on the first Sunday of December will have more “high church” aspects.  The 3^rd Sunday of Advent will include special music by the King’s Men.  The 4^th Sunday of Advent will include a children’s program.

      Christmas Eve worship will occur on December 24 at 4:00 and 7:00 PM.  The two services will include special music, Holy Communion and a concluding candle-lighting liturgy.  INVITE friends and family to join you in worship this season!

Budget for 2009

The congregation council received a budget proposal for 2009 and presents it “as-is” to the congregation for consideration.  In preparing this budget, the Finance Committee asked Art (business manager) to pull together numbers that reflect what could be thought of as a “bare-bones” budget.  The question might be… after several years of minimizing expenses, what will it likely take next year to financially operate in the way St. John’s is currently “living”… that is, what are the basic expenses relative to the building, utility costs, current staff and the minimal program functioning right now?  In my non-business way, I call this the congregation’s “lifestyle”… and right now, the lifestyle is mostly minimalistic for a congregation of this size and history.

      I think that the presented budget accurately reflects current operating expenses and the likely expenses for next year… that is, the budget reflects what it will take to continue the current “lifestyle” of St. John’s in 2009.  Art has been making use of a computer software program in the past 18 months or so that considerably helps the budget-making process by keeping track of giving and expenses, projecting the same into the future. 

      To significantly alter the presented 2009 budget implies significantly altering the congregation’s current lifestyle.  A bit of history… operating expenses in 2000 (not including mission support and additional disbursements) were $196,000 and increased to $231,000 for the years 2002-03.  Operating Expenses in the proposed 2009 budget are $205,000 (not including mission support and additional expenses).

 

November 30, 2008

A Couple Of Collection-Projects will Continue

Mary Ellen Zellmer has indicated that she is willing to manage the collecting and transporting of used medicine bottles.  Donations to the project may be left on a table in the gym.  Mary Ellen also volunteers to continue collecting donations for the Milk Moola program sponsored by Kwik Trip.  Again, donations should be left in the gym. 

Sally Kassube will also be helping to keep these two collection projects going for now.

Extending Communion to Those Unable to Attend Worship – Next Sunday

Immediately after worship next Sunday, I’ll meet with any people interested in the ministry of bringing the elements of communion (bread and wine) to others who cannot attend worship for various reasons.  Augsburg-Fortress Publishing has just released a companion book to the ELW called Pastoral Care.  One of its liturgies instructs this form of distributing Holy Communion.  I’ll provide an introduction to the liturgy at next Sunday’s meeting (right after worship.)  You are welcomed to join us to learn more.