From distupd at lists.ndlcms.org Wed May 2 10:08:32 2007 From: distupd at lists.ndlcms.org (District Updates) Date: Wed, 02 May 2007 15:08:32 -0000 Subject: [DistUpd] May 2 Message-ID: Update for May 2 A publication of the Nebraska District, a District ABLAZE! Greetings in the name of our loving Heavenly Father. * Prayer Requests * Sudanese Medical Fund * Prairie Fire is Coming * Concordia Publishing House Offers Children's Books in Spanish * Concordia University "On the Road" This Summer * Preschool Teacher Position in Tecumseh * News From Mission Central * Junior High Youth Met for Retreat * "Two Kingdoms" Podcast Available * Deaf Institute of Theology To Host a Deaf L.I.T.E.S. PRAYER REQUESTS The Sudanese Lutheran Community- Please continue to pray for the Sudanese Lutheran community following the van accident on Sunday. We thank the Lord that no one lost their life in the accident, and we pray for the passengers and their families as they recuperate. In thanksgiving to God, we commend the rescue workers and the hospital staff who worked quickly and diligently to tend to the wounded and provide care for the injured. We also give thanks for the opportunity God has given for His message of hope to be heard through these circumstances. The Family of Erik Wentzel - We remember in prayer Rev. Robert and Deon Wentzel, whose son, Erik, was called to the Lord's side last Friday, April 27. Rev. Wentzel, Deon, and their three daughters live in Walton, where Pastor Wentzel serves Trinity Lutheran Church. Cards of Christian care can be sent to Rev. Robert and Deon Wentzel at 5315 S. 162nd Street, Walton, NE 68461 or electronically to rwentzel at diodecom.net. Sharon Sherrill - We ask the Great Physician to place His healing hand on Sharon Sherrill, who has a damaged mitral valve in her heart from a bacterial infection in her blood. She is currently at the Cleveland Clinic in Ohio undergoing tests. Surgery has been scheduled for this coming Friday, May 4. We ask the Lord to protect Sharon and grant her healing through whatever treatments the doctors determine to be the best. We also pray for the doctors and medical staff who are caring for Sharon. Sharon is the wife of Pastor North Sherrill of Zion, Kearney. Back to top SUDANESE MEDICAL FUND "For we were all baptized by one Spirit into one body . . . If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it. Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it." 1 Corinthians 12:13, 26-27 A tragic accident impacted a congregation of the Nebraska District of The Lutheran Church - Missouri Synod Sunday afternoon, April 29, when a van carrying 20 members of the Sudanese Evangelical Lutheran Church in Mission of Omaha blew a tire and flipped off Interstate 80. By God's grace, not one passenger was killed in the accident, and many were able to be treated and released from Lincoln hospitals in a short time. Others sustained more serious injuries, ranging from fractured bones to internal injuries, which required longer hospital stays, surgeries, and other diagnostic tests. The churches of the Nebraska District are connected as one body through the love of Jesus Christ. Many congregations and schools are asking how they can help these brothers and sisters at this time. A fund has been set up at the Nebraska District Office to help offset the medical costs incurred as a result of the accident. Churches, schools, or individuals who wish to contribute to this fund may send donations to the District Office designated for "Sudanese Medical Fund." Checks should be made payable to "Nebraska District LCMS" with "Sudanese Medical Fund" noted on the check. Any donations in excess of medical costs will be used by the Sudanese congregation for their mission and ministry. Nebraska District LCMS PO Box 407 Seward NE 68434 www.ndlcms.org Back to top PRAIRIE FIRE IS COMING Mark your calendar! Tell your friends! Make plans now to attend this year's Prairie Fire event on Saturday, August 4, at Concordia University, Seward. The Nebraska District is offering this day-long event to help resource laity and church workers with various outreach tools, as well as in other ministry areas. Rev. Scott Snow, National Director of Outreach for LCMS World Mission, will be our speaker for the day, along with nearly 50 break-out sessions to choose from. Registration materials will be mailed in early June to church offices, congregational chairmen, past participants, and teachers in the District, as well as being available on the District website. Watch your mailbox, this newsletter, or your church newsletter for more information. Back to top CONCORDIA PUBLISHING HOUSE OFFERS CHILDREN'S BOOKS IN SPANISH Concordia Publishing House is offering classic children's books in Spanish. The newly released 3 en 1 is the translation of the best selling classic 3 in 1. Using the analogy of the apple, 3 en 1 explains the Trinity in easy-to-understand words and pictures. Your Price: $7.99 Item Number: 56-2418WEB CPH also offers the classic Arch Books in Spanish. Not simply a translation of the English Arch Book, each story is originally written in Spanish and uses the same colorful illustrations as the original. Libros Arco (The Spanish Arch Books series) has 27 titles! Four new titles are now available to help teach young children Bible stories. Use them with Spanish-speaking children or to teach Spanish. The new titles include: Felipe y el et?ope (Philip and the Ethiopian), 16-6244WEB; Lazaro, ?lev?ntate! (Get up, Lazarus!), 16-6245WEB; El horno en llamas (The Fiery Furnace), 16-6247WEB; and El?as ayuda a la viuda (Elijah Helps the Widow), 16-6246WEB. Your Price: $2.49 each To view the complete list of Arch Books in Spanish, visit the CPH website at http://www.cph.org/cphstore/Category.asp?find%5Fcategory=81260&find%5Fdescription=Libros+Arco+%2D+Spanish+Arch+Books+%285%2D9%29&find%5Fpart%5Fdesc=. Items may also be ordered from their website at www.cph.org . Back to top CONCORDIA UNIVERSITY "ON THE ROAD" THIS SUMMER 2007 Synod Convention Concordia University, Nebraska will host an alumni and friends reception on Monday, July 16, 6:30-9:30 p.m. at the Hilton Hotel adjacent to the GRB Convention Center. Those attending the convention are invited to stop by for refreshments and a chance to catch up with fellow alumni, current faculty and staff, and President and Mrs. Friedrich. During the convention, stop by the Concordia University, Nebraska booth for fun giveaways and a chance to put your mark on our "Concordia Nebraska Alumni Serving & Leading" globe. 2007 National Youth Gathering Concordia University, Nebraska welcomes alumni, students, and friends to a reception on Monday, July 30, 3:30-6:30 p.m. in the OCCC West 307 BCD Ballrooms. Youth and leaders attending the Gathering are invited to come by to catch up with friends and enjoy some refreshments. Concordia Nebraska t-shirts will also be available to wear on Concordia Nebraska T-shirt Tuesday at NYG. T-shirts can also be picked up at our booth in the ChoZone. Come by to put your mark on our "Where in the World are Concordia Nebraska Alumni?" globe and pick up some fun giveaways. Back to top PRESCHOOL TEACHER POSITION IN TECUMSEH St. John's, Tecumseh, is in need of a licensed preschool teacher in a part-time position from 8:30 a.m. to 12 noon, Monday thru Friday. Monday-Wednesday-Friday classes are for 4 year olds and Tuesday-Thursday classes are for 3 year olds. The pay starts at $13,000 per year with increases based on education and experience. Anyone interested should call Pastor John Diener at 402-335-3816 or 440-554-6429. This preschool is a terrific mission to train God's precious little ones with His Word and love. The church office is open Monday thru Thursday from 8 a.m. to noon to pick up an application. Back to top NEWS FROM MISSION CENTRAL By Gary Thies GOD SENDS SPECIAL MISSIONARIES FROM SEWARD, NEBRASKA, TO HELP AT MISSION CENTRAL! Some time ago, Joel Endorf (Concordia University Nebraska student) said, "Gary could we do a special 'servant event' at Mission Central to help with the work there?" I thought about that for some time, and then this spring I realized that one of the most difficult jobs facing us here with this property was the sidewalks! Yes, since the new sidewalks were put in, the grass has impacted and grown over the edges and this needed attention in light of all the visitors that have come to see the museum and the facilities and to hear programs here at Mission Central. It was a job that required a lot of labor. I contacted Missionary Endorf, and he told me that he would "muster" a team from the University at Seward, Nebraska, and bring them to help with this project. It was a cold and rainy day that required we all work in the rain at times, and we were all soaked to the skin when we were all done, but God blessed our time together and the special job got done in spite of the weather! Trees were dug around, sod was removed from next to the sidewalks, and when it was done a wonderful lunch was served by Missionary Maxine. Then the entire group of students was joined by another group from Early and Newell, Iowa, to hear and see a special presentation on Missions by Missionary Gary. It was a long "wet and hard" day, but when we were all done the Lord truly blessed our day and the sun came out. All the jobs were done on the grounds at Mission Central because of a special group of missionary helpers from Seward, Nebraska. They were truly "not normal" young people who cared enough to drive three hours to get here to work hard and help. Thank God for special people who are "not normal"! They were peculiar...1 Peter 2:9 Upcoming Events The speaking schedule of Missionaries at Mission Central for spring and summer: Rev. Mark and Rose Krause on May 12 at 1:00 P.M. at Mission Central about their coming mission to Lativa. Delano and Linda Meyer from Sierra Leona, West Africa, will speak on June 9 at 1:00 PM. Jerry and Carol Loewe from Jos, Nigeria, will speak on June 19 at 7:00 p.m. Rev. Claude and Rhoda Houge from Kenya, East Africa, will talk about their work of telling thousands about Jesus on June 26 at 7:00 p.m. Back to top JUNIOR HIGH YOUTH MET FOR RETREAT More than 130 junior high students and adults participated in the annual LCMS junior high retreat at Camp Comeca near Cozad, Nebraska, Friday and Saturday, April 20 and 21. The retreat was a joint effort of the McCook and Holdrege circuits. Eight pastors, a vicar, and a DCE explained the different parts of the Divine Service to campers, using the new CPH book "Worshiping With Angels and Archangels" as an outline. Campers received their own copies of the book, using them for study guides as well as to collect email addresses, phone numbers, messages, and signatures of new-found friends and fellow worshipers. Besides the presenters, nearly 20 adults attended, serving as counselors for 106 junior high students. Comprised mostly of confirmation classes from churches of the McCook and Holdrege circuits, participants from Lexington, North Platte, Osmond, and Bridgeport were also present. Campers had to take cover for an hour or so Friday night when a tornado warning was issued. It was learned later that a tornado had touched down nearby, causing quite a bit of damage. A major highlight came at the end of the retreat, during the closing worship service, when one of the campers received the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit in the sacrament of Holy Baptism. In the closing service, and throughout the weekend, all campers were reminded of God's service to them of grace, mercy, and forgiveness in baptism, and in all His means of grace, which He provides in the Divine Service. Back to top "TWO KINGDOMS" PODCAST AVAILABLE A new series of audio/video podcasts exploring the Lutheran doctrine of the Two Kingdoms is available for download, free of charge, on "Concordia Seminary on iTunes U." The moderator of the 15-minute talk show is Dr. Uwe Siemon-Netto, director of the Institute on Lay Vocation at Concordia Seminary, St. Louis. In each segment, Siemon-Netto answers questions posed by a pastor or lay person about specific aspects of the doctrine. A special three-part SemCast, in which Seminary president Dr. Dale A. Meyer interviews Siemon-Netto, outlines the doctrine of the Two Kingdoms and serves as the basis for the new "question and answer" podcast series. In each subsequent segment, Siemon-Netto addresses a different issue dealing with the doctrine's impact on Christian life. Topics include politics, vocation, race, sex, aesthetics, war, immigration and the arts. Podcasts are recorded weekly, and eight audio/video files are currently available. The series will include approximately 30-50 total installments. To access "Concordia Seminary on iTunes U," go to the Seminary's Web site at www.csl.edu and click on the iTunes U link in the lower, right-hand corner, or access the site directly at http://itunes.csl.edu . Both Macintosh and Microsoft Windows-based computers are able to utilize this technology. Back to top DEAF INSTITUTE OF THEOLOGY TO HOST A DEAF L.I.T.E.S. Concordia Seminary's Deaf Institute of Theology will host a Deaf L.I.T.E.S. (Lutherans in Training, Equipping and Serving) Workshop on May 29 - June 2 on the campus of Concordia Seminary, St. Louis. The event is designed for pastors, students and others interested in deaf ministry. The week-long intensive immersion program is designed to provide participants with religious sign language skills, resources for teaching and training deaf people, ongoing support, skills and ideas for deaf ministry, and practical experience. Registration for the Deaf L.I.T.E.S. Workshop is $575 and includes meals, lodging, tuition, books and materials. A $100 deposit is required with registration to reserve meals and lodging. The registration and deposit are due three weeks prior to the workshop. CEU credits are available for an added fee. The Deaf L.I.T.E.S. Workshop also will be held at Concordia University, Mequon, Wis., July 9-13, 2007. Back to top Blessings, Nichole Hetz Nebraska District LCMS Director of Communications and Events 1-888-643-2961 nicholeh at ndlcms.org www.ndlcms.org * Please Note: The inclusion of items in the Update from outside sources is for informational purposes only. Inclusion of such items does not constitute District endorsement. -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: not available Type: text/html Size: 35257 bytes Desc: not available Url : http://lists.ndlcms.org/pipermail/distupd/attachments/20070502/2b8f3368/attachment.txt From distupd at lists.ndlcms.org Wed May 9 11:29:53 2007 From: distupd at lists.ndlcms.org (District Updates) Date: Wed, 09 May 2007 16:29:53 -0000 Subject: [DistUpd] May 9 Message-ID: Update for May 9 A publication of the Nebraska District, a District ABLAZE! Greetings in the name of the Lord! At this very busy time of the year, with Mother's Day, graduations, spring planting, and so much more, we are so thankful for a Heavenly Father who promises to be with us at all times. May He continue to bless you and your family during this busy springtime. * Prayer Requests * Assistance for Tornado Victims in Kansas * Update on the Sudanese Evangelical Lutheran Church * Pancake Breakfast to Support Van Accident Victims * Wanted: Bicycles * Concordia Honors Outstanding Teacher * May is Pastoral Education Month * Podcast Provides Theological Insight into "The Secret" * Lutheran Hour Ministry News * News from Mission Central * Christian Cross Festival in Norfolk PRAYER REQUESTS Sharon Sherrill - We join in prayers of thanksgiving with Pastor North and Sharon Sherrill at the successful surgery Sharon underwent last week. At last report, Sharon made it safely through surgery last Friday, May 4, in which the surgeon was able to repair her mitral valve and clean up the endocarditis infection. Her recovery seems to be progressing well and we thank God for being with Sharon and the doctors throughout her time at the Cleveland Clinic. We ask the Lord to continue blessing Sharon with healing and strength. Pastor North Sherrill is the pastor of Zion, Kearney. Back to top ASSISTANCE FOR TORNADO VICTIMS IN KANSAS By now, most of you have seen the national reports of the affects of the tornados this past weekend. President Keith Kohlmeier of the Kansas District reports the following: "Everyone reads and hears about the epicenter in Greensburg, but there is a larger corridor that has been affected. There were a total of 119 sighted since mid last week. Please remember all of those affected in your prayers, especially those who mourn the death of family and neighbors. Many are affected." President Sommerfeld is in contact with President Kohlmeier and is determining how the congregations of the Nebraska District can aid our brothers and sisters to the south. As immediate and future needs are determined, they will be passed along through this electronic newsletter. Following is the first report from Lutheran Disaster Response: Preliminary damage assessments are under way after severe storms struck the U.S. Great Plains May 5-6. At least 10 people were killed and dozens of others were injured as storms spawned about 75 tornado touchdowns in Kansas and Oklahoma, according to Heather L. Feltman, executive director, Lutheran Disaster Response -- a collaborative ministry of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) and Lutheran Church- Missouri Synod (LCMS). "The majority of the media coverage for these storms has focused on Greensburg, Kansas," said Feltman. About 90 percent of the town's infrastructure was lost. Greensburg is closed except to its 1,500 residents and search and rescue teams. Disaster response volunteers are not being allowed access while the emergency phase of the disaster continues, she said. Roger Kruger, Lutheran Disaster Response coordinator, traveled to the affected region May 7 to perform initial assessments and to connect with disaster partners in the area. On May 8, local Lutheran clergy and representatives from the LCMS Kansas District and ELCA Central States Synod gathered at Our Savior's Lutheran Church, Pratt, Kan., to discuss the immediate and long-term needs of affected communities. Our Savior's Lutheran is a congregation of the LCMS. "Lutheran Disaster Response is prepared to offer assistance, as needed, in the form of emergency hardship grants and spiritual and emotional care. Once the town has been reopened, we will also be working in coordination with local congregations to coordinate volunteer teams for debris removal and clean-up. Plans are being made for volunteer teams to begin working this weekend. After an initial assessment has been completed, we will help to organize residents in meeting long-term unmet needs and volunteer coordination will likely continue through the rebuilding phase," said Feltman. "We lift up in prayer those who (have) lost loved ones and suffered property damage in this sudden and tragic event. With the understanding that the loss of life could have been much more widespread, we also offer prayers of thanksgiving for the warning systems that aided the residents of Greensburg in preparing for the incoming storm," she said. Back to top UPDATE ON THE SUDANESE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH A sincere thank you to everyone who is lifting up in prayer the members of the Sudanese Evangelical Lutheran Church in Omaha following the van accident last Sunday. As of this past Saturday, three passengers remained hospitalized, all who were up and walking around. Praise be to God for the miracles and the healing He has provided. As was shared last week, a special fund has been set up at the Nebraska District Office to collect and distribute funds designated to offset the medical costs incurred due to the accident. Donations from congregations or individuals may be sent to the Nebraska District LCMS, PO Box 407, Seward, NE 68434. Another miracle has been the generous donation of a brand-new van to this congregation. The heart of a benevolent individual in the Nebraska District was moved by this story, and in response a new van will be purchased and donated to the church for their use. We pray that this new van will be used by the church to continue their ministry. Back to top PANCAKE BREAKFAST TO SUPPORT VAN ACCIDENT VICTIMS The members of Bethany Lutheran Church, 5151 NW Radial Highway, Omaha, have scheduled a pancake breakfast fundraiser to benefit the Sudanese Medical Fund on Sunday, May 20. Breakfast will be served from 9:30 a.m. until 11:45 a.m. at the church. Supplemental funding will be provided by Thrivent. Contact Donna at the church office at 402-558-6212 for more information. Back to top WANTED: BICYCLES Do you have bicycles in your garage that aren't being used? University Lutheran at UNK in Kearney is looking for donated bicycles to be given to the international students at UNK. Many of the international students have no means of transportation except on foot. If you have any unused bicycles you would like to donate to help with this ministry, please contact Judy Wellman at 308-236-8253 or e-mail ulc at kearney.net. Back to top CONCORDIA HONORS OUTSTANDING TEACHER Dr. Kurt von Kampen, associate professor of music, was honored with Concordia University, Nebraska's Outstanding Teaching Award during commencement ceremonies on campus Saturday, May 5. "This is unbelievable. I am humbled to be here," von Kampen said during his comments following the announcement. He went on to thank the choirs he directs, his fellow faculty, his wife, and the administration in their support of the arts at Concordia. Kept a secret until the second ceremony, the annual award goes to a full-time member of Concordia's faculty who is nominated by students and selected by a committee of students and faculty members who have previously received the award. "This is such a surprise, and I am most honored because this award comes from the students," he remarked afterwards. "Teaching here is a team effort, though. My family, my fellow music professors, and the administration make it possible." Von Kampen has been conducting choirs at Concordia since the fall of 1998 and is the fourth conductor of the University A Cappella Choir. He leads the choirs on both national and international tours as well as in supporting worship on campus and in area churches. Von Kampen earned his bachelor's from Concordia, a master of music from Oakland University, Rochester, Mich., and his doctorate from University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Back to top MAY IS PASTORAL EDUCATION MONTH To encourage wider awareness, May has been newly designated "Pastoral Education Month" by The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod Board of Directors. From recruiting seminarians to continuing education for parish pastors, the subject of pastoral education has many facets. Resources - including a bulletin insert, a Bible study based on 1 Tim. 3:1-7, sermon notes, hymn suggestions, and prayers-may be downloaded from www.lcms.org/pastoraleducation. The site also links to information about seminary education, continuing education, health and wellness, and theological materials. It offers information about the Synod's National Offering to support theological education. Another website - www.whataway.org - focuses on the recruitment and retention of church professionals, both ordained and commissioned. Back to top PODCAST PROVIDES THEOLOGICAL INSIGHT INTO "THE SECRET" Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, announces the availability of a theological resource, in the form of an audio/video podcast, on the self-help book and feature-length television movie The Secret. The resource features Seminary faculty member David Lewis, assistant professor of exegetical theology, and is available for download, free of charge, on the Seminary faculty's Web site at www.concordiatheology.org, and on "Concordia Seminary on iTunes U" at http://itunes.csl.edu/, under the section "In the News." The Secret, written and created by Australian television producer Rhonda Byrne, has been deemed a "worldwide internet phenomenon" and is currently a best-selling book in the United States. It has been the main topic on television talk shows, such as Larry King Live and Oprah. Claiming to reveal the secrets of the universe through the "law of attraction," a principle taken from quantum physics and applied to human thought, The Secret posits that human thoughts attract certain real-life events from the universe. According to the "law of attraction," if a person envisions good things, the universe is bound to return good outcomes. In his response, Lewis provides insight into the basic presuppositions of the book. He first points out that the idea that positive thinking can produce positive results is not a new concept, dating back to the 1800s and early 1900s. He also argues that the underlying ideology of The Secret is a form of Gnosticism. Lewis says, "[Churches are] teaching the same doctrine that Rhonda Byrne teaches in The Secret, only what they have is a veneer of Christianity; they use Christian terms-trinity, crucifixion, resurrection. They give to these terms new meanings that fit their doctrine about the power of positive thinking. But, in a sense, this ideology has been a part of what one might call 'American Gnosticism.'" While Lewis grants that it is better to have a positive attitude than negative, he finds three major theological shortcomings of the "law of attraction" in light of fundamental Christian doctrine. The Secret, he concludes, fails to take into consideration the First Commandment, the utter depravity of man and the vital role of Christ and the resurrection. "In The Secret, there is no room for Jesus because for there to be room for Jesus there needs to be sin, and in [the book] there is no clear concept of the fallenness of humanity, of its need for deliverance," says Lewis. "Once you face death as a reality and know that there is death because of sin, you realize that what we really need is a savior." Back to top LUTHERAN HOUR MINISTRY NEWS LHM Celebrates 100th Airing of 'The Lutheran Hour' on American Forces Network May 6 marks a special date in the illustrious history of The Lutheran Hour radio program. On this date, The Lutheran Hour will air for the 100th time on the American Forces Network. The program began airing on AFN in June 2005 and the broadcasts reach a potential weekly audience of 800,000 military personnel, families, workers, and other government employees. Click to read more: http://www.lhm.org/minupdate/news.asp#article7635 ------------------------------------------------------------ Fun, New Kids Activities Debut on 'JCPlayZone' Are you looking for ways to entertain and educate your children while they are away from school during the upcoming summer months? Then LHM encourages you to check out its website for children, www.jcplayzone.com . Click to read more: http://www.lhm.org/minupdate/news.asp#article7638 ------------------------------------------------------------ Learn Where Pastor Klaus Will Be Speaking Dates and times for Pastor Ken Klaus' upcoming public speaking engagements have been confirmed. Following are the places where he will be speaking during May and June: Click to read more: http://www.lhm.org/minupdate/news.asp#article7643 ------------------------------------------------------------ Find Out What's Being Discussed on 'Life ... revised' This Month Life ... revised is a new radio program that shares healthy ways to combat life's challenges. Co-hosts "Dr. Mark" Hannemann and Michelle Bauer provide wise and lively discussions about family, health, financial, and other issues with Christian integrity, street smarts, and compassion. Dr. Mark is a Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod pastor (who formerly served at Faith, Lincoln), a professional mental health practitioner, and director of a Christian counseling center. Michelle, a talented media professional and mother of three, provides a fresh female perspective to the discussions Click to read more: http://www.lhm.org/minupdate/news.asp#article7645 Back to top NEWS FROM MISSION CENTRAL (By Gary Thies) MOTORCYCLE MISSIONARIES ARRIVE AT MISSION CENTRAL: On Saturday, May 5, 2007, the motorcyclists from all over Iowa and Nebraska came together at Mission Central for a convention of the Christian Motorcycle Association. It was a very, very, very special day because the weather was not at all cooperative with heavy rain and wind. Yet, a wonderful group of God's special motorcycle riders came together for their annual meeting at Mission Central. From Des Moines, Atlantic, Council Bluffs, Omaha, Sioux City, Bellevue -- from all over they came. A special program on Motorcycles of Vietnam was given by Gary, and a wonderful meal was served. This special Christian group was so interested in hearing what God was doing in the mission field half-way around the world, and there were a number of Vietnam veterans who especially enjoyed the program on our outreach in Vietnam. We have had one ordained pastor in Hanoi for ten years, and the group was amazed at that. As a special project for the day, the group sent 292 Chinese Bibles to the people of Mainland China. It was truly a special day, and the meal was truly enjoyed by everyone. We are so blessed to have had this "not normal" group of folks come to Mission Central, and to be able to pray together and thank God for this great country in which we live. It was a special day that many will long remember. Back to top CHRISTIAN CROSS FESTIVAL IN NORFOLK Everyone is invited to the third annual "Christian Cross Festival" to be held at Skyview Lake in Norfolk on Sunday, June 3, from 1:00 - 10:00 p.m. This free event will include Christian music, testimony, children's activities, and fireworks. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs and blankets and spend a day of Christian fellowship. Food vendors will be available. Musical groups and speakers planned for the day include Remedy Drive, Tree 63, Susie Luchsinger, Moses Montalvo, and CamiJo Howrey. More information on the line-up of speakers and musicians is available on the website www.christiancrossfestival.org . There is also a map of the festival location and music demos for some of the scheduled performers. Back to top Thanks to all who contributed information for this week's Email Update. If you have items to share in future Updates, please send them to communications at ndlcms.org. Past Updates are available from www.ndlcms.org/news/communications/update.html. Blessings, Nichole Hetz Nebraska District LCMS Director of Communications and Events 1-888-643-2961 nicholeh at ndlcms.org www.ndlcms.org -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: not available Type: text/html Size: 38204 bytes Desc: not available Url : http://lists.ndlcms.org/pipermail/distupd/attachments/20070509/2337fa0d/attachment.txt -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: not available Type: image/gif Size: 73 bytes Desc: image001.gif Url : http://lists.ndlcms.org/pipermail/distupd/attachments/20070509/2337fa0d/attachment-0001.gif From distupd at lists.ndlcms.org Wed May 16 09:01:10 2007 From: distupd at lists.ndlcms.org (District Updates) Date: Wed, 16 May 2007 14:01:10 -0000 Subject: [DistUpd] Mission Fields Nebraska Message-ID: Greetings in the name of the Lord of the Harvest! Attached is the latest issue of the Mission Fields Nebraska newsletter. This electronic newsletter is sent quarterly by the Nebraska District Mission Department to those who are subscribed to the Email Update. In each issue you will hear stories from missionaries who are serving in the Nebraska mission field, as well as churches and individuals that are doing outreach in their community. If you or your congregation has a story to share, please contact Carol Oetting, assistant to Rev. Rich Boring, at the District Office. She may be reached at 888-643-2961 or carolo at ndlcms.org. You are encouraged to distribute this newsletter to members of your congregation via email or in print. Church offices and individuals are given permission to reprint articles or the entire newsletter. Please share these stories of what God is doing in the mission fields of Nebraska with friends, family, and fellow congregation members. If you have trouble opening this attachment, the newsletter may be downloaded off the Nebraska District website at http://www.ndlcms.org/ministries/district/index.html. If you wish to unsubscribe from our mailing list, you will be removed from all mailing lists, including the weekly Email Update. You may unsubscribe by replying to this message and requesting to be unsubscribed, or visit the District website at http://www.ndlcms.org/news/communications/update.html and click on the "To subscribe" link on the right. We are excited to be in mission work with you, and we look forward to a continued partnership in the mission fields of Nebraska. Nichole Hetz Nebraska District LCMS Director of Communications and Events 1-888-643-2961 nicholeh at ndlcms.org www.ndlcms.org -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: not available Type: text/html Size: 6958 bytes Desc: not available Url : http://lists.ndlcms.org/pipermail/distupd/attachments/20070516/ff0b5939/attachment.txt -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: May 07.pdf Type: application/octet-stream Size: 928008 bytes Desc: May 07.pdf Url : http://lists.ndlcms.org/pipermail/distupd/attachments/20070516/ff0b5939/May07-0001.obj From distupd at lists.ndlcms.org Wed May 16 10:27:03 2007 From: distupd at lists.ndlcms.org (District Updates) Date: Wed, 16 May 2007 15:27:03 -0000 Subject: [DistUpd] May 16 Message-ID: Update for May 16 A publication of the Nebraska District, a District ABLAZE! Greetings in the name of the Creator, who controls the winds and the rain. Nebraska has seen a good share of spring weather in the past weeks, and what a blessing it is to know that the same God who controls the weather loves each one of His children. He knows each one of us so well that ?even the very hairs of your head are all numbered,? so we don?t have to be afraid. (Matt. 10:30-31) What a joy to know that even though the storms of life may rage around us, He loves us and will care for us here on earth and for eternity. * Prayer Requests * Congregational Health Ministry Networking Meeting Postponed * Relief Efforts Following the Kansas Tornados * Summer Stewardship Resources * Retirement Celebration for Pastor Voelker * Orphan Grain Train Fish Feed in Lincoln * Wheat Ridge Ministries to Accept Congregation Health and Hope Grant Proposals * Seminary Continuing Education Class in Kearney * Camp Luther Anniversary Celebration * Nebraska Lutherans for Confessional Study to Meet * Training Event to Equip Volunteers for ?The 72? * Jamaican Mission Field Receives New Missionary from Nigeria * Erin Bode Teams with LCMS World Relief and Human Care to Aid South African Youth PRAYER REQUESTS Family of Beth Schlamann - Beth Schlamann, 42, wife of Pastor Mark Schlamann, was called to her eternal rest on Saturday, May 12, following a courageous battle with cancer. Pastor Schlamann is a Dorchester native and was a member at Bethlehem, Crete. They moved to Beth's native western New York to continue treatment. Pr. Schlamann is currently providing pulpit supply at St. Peter Lutheran Church, Cambria, NY. Memorials may be sent to the Lutheran Heritage Foundation. Back to top CONGREGATIONAL HEALTH MINISTRY NETWORKING MEETING POSTPONED The Congregational Health Ministry Networking Meeting scheduled for tomorrow, May 17, has been postponed. No new date has been set, but more information will be shared through this Update as it becomes available. Contact Julie Roebke at 888-643-2961 or julier at ndlcms.org with questions. Back to top RELIEF EFFORTS FOLLOWING THE KANSAS TORNADOS (from LCMSNews No. 33) Thirteen member families of Peace Lutheran Church, Greensburg, Kan., "lost everything -- their homes, furniture, clothing, all their possessions" to the May 4 tornado that all but flattened the town of 1,500 and killed 10 residents, according to the congregation's pastor. The tornado also destroyed the LCMS congregation's church building. Rev. Timothy Henning, pastor of Peace (with about 65 baptized members) and of Our Savior Lutheran Church in nearby Pratt, Kan., added that he is not aware that any members of the Greensburg congregation were injured or killed in the tornado, and that those who lost their homes are living with family or friends. LCMS Kansas District President Keith Kohlmeier called Greensburg the "epicenter" of the F5 tornado, which caused devastation 1.7 miles wide as it pounded Greensburg and whipped destruction along a 60-mile corridor through the communities of Claflin, Ellinwood, Macksville, and Holyrood, and into rural areas. In Holyrood, one LCMS family reportedly lost all its farm's outbuildings to the tornado, another had extensive roof damage, and a third family incurred roof damage as its home sat in floodwater. The storm also caused water damage -- and possibly structural damage -- to the chancel at Zion Lutheran Church, Claflin. Numerous tornadoes and thunderstorms hit Kansas in the days before and after the F5 tornado that destroyed a reported 90 percent of Greensburg's infrastructure. In addition, floodwater covered parts of Kansas after more than 10 inches of rain fell over the weekend. Rev. Glenn Merritt and Rev. Carlos Hernandez -- director of Disaster Response and director of Districts and Congregations, respectively, with LCMS World Relief/Human Care -- accompanied Henning in Greensburg May 7 as they visited and prayed with members of Peace when residents were allowed back into the community to search for belongings. Merritt and Hernandez joined local pastors and lay leaders, Kohlmeier, representatives of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Central States Synod, Lutheran Disaster Response, the LCMS Kansas District Disaster Response team, Lutheran Women's Missionary League, health and mental-health agencies, and others at Our Savior, Pratt, for a May 8 meeting to discuss "how best to respond as the body of Christ to the needs and loss in the area," according to Merritt. LCMS World Relief/Human Care gave a $30,000 emergency grant -- to be administered by Our Savior Lutheran Church, Pratt -- to help the members of Peace, Greensburg, meet immediate needs. The Synod's mercy arm also announced that it would match donations up to a total of $200,000 for those affected by tornadoes. To support LCMS World Relief/Human Care's disaster-response efforts in Greensburg and elsewhere, send donations to LCMS World Relief/Human Care, P.O. Box 66861, St. Louis, MO 63166-9810. Write "Kansas tornadoes" in the memo line. To donate via credit card, call (888) 930-4438. Merritt emphasized that donations of clothes and food are not needed at this time. He added that volunteers may be needed later, with Lutheran Disaster Response likely coordinating those future volunteer efforts. Back to top SUMMER STEWARDSHIP RESOURCES The following stewardship thoughts and resources were shared by LCMS District and Congregational Services. STEWARDSHIP IN THE SUMMER OF 2007 As we celebrate the beginning of summer we observe the longest day of the year which will be balanced in December by the shortest day of the year. Balance is sometimes very good, because as Christian stewards we live with a lot of tension. Take, for example, the LCMS Biblical Stewardship Principles (go to www.lcms.org/stewardship and click on ?Biblical Stewardship Principles? for the full text of the principles). The present tensions that are important parts of our daily life. Consider these tensions: * We are managers, not owners * We are saints and sinners at the same time * We are uniquely singular, yet profoundly plural * We are in the world but not of the world * We are servants, not masters * We live with an awareness of the present and future, of time and eternity Good stewardship teaching and preaching deal with these and other tensions in life. Good stewardship teaching and preaching also deal with the free and joyous activity of the child of God and God?s family, the church, in managing all of life and life?s resources for God?s purposes [according to our LCMS definition of Christian Stewardship]. Some pastors and teachers argue that they cannot keep teaching and preaching Christian stewardship because people will get the impression that stewardship is mostly about money and the giving of it. Even when we add the ?T?s? of ?Time? and ?Talent? to ?Treasure,? people still get the impression that stewardship is really about giving and finally comes down to the giving of money. Their reasoning is that money is the result of combining time and talent, so the bottom line is that it is all about money. How About Thinking in Terms of Seven ?T?s?? It would be much easier to preach and teach year-round about Christian stewardship if stewardship is more than time, talent and treasure. So, how about adding these four ?T?s? to stewardship? Testimony It might sound strange at first to think about the stewardship of TESTIMONY. Jesus instructed His disciples of all ages to make disciples, teaching, baptizing and commanding people to follow God?s teachings. Part of our stewardship of the Gospel is sharing the good news of Jesus that gives us hope, joy and peace. Touch The stewardship of TOUCH refers to the relationships we have with God and with each other. It is similar to what St. John wrote about in 1 John 1:3: ?We proclaim to you what we have seen and heard, so that you may also have fellowship with us. And our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ.? As Christians we have many relationships?family, friends, neighbors, co-workers, classmates, and the list can go on and on. How we nurture those relationships is also part of our stewardship. Tissue The stewardship of TISSUE might seem like a stretch but not if we think about TISSUE as referring to the care of our bodies. According to 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit who dwells within us. The stewardship of TISSUE involves many things such as proper nourishment, exercise and grooming. It can also refer to the subjects of organ donations and transplants, various kinds of medical procedures and the whole spectrum of life issues from birth to death. Trash The stewardship of TRASH gives us the opportunity to teach and preach about the proper care and management of God?s creation. That is another important part of our Christian stewardship. Go to www.lcms.org/stewardship, click on ?StewardCAST? and then the January 2006 back issue for a more detailed treatment of the seven ?T?s? of stewardship. Helps for Preaching and Teaching Year-Round, Whole-Life Stewardship There are a number of resources available to assist with preaching and teaching whole-life stewardship on a year-round basis. These resources include: * Free weekly bulletin sentences based on the Series C Epistle readings * Free monthly newsletter articles that can be customized or used as is * The Congregational Stewardship Workbook available for $60.00 plus shipping by calling Concordia Publishing House at 1-800-325-3040 and asking for stock number S21859. This three-ring binder contains 27 separately-bound booklets that cover congregational stewardship in a comprehensive way. Go to www.lcms.org/stewardship and click on ?Congregational Stewardship Workbook? for more information and a free introduction. More Stewardship Helps * Would you like to see increased spiritual growth in your congregation? * Would you like to see an increase of 15% - 35% or more in envelope giving in your church? Those very things are happening in more and more LCMS churches! A magic stewardship silver bullet? No, it?s ?Consecrated Stewards.? For more information, including a video introduction, go to www.lcef.org , scroll down to ?Capital Funding Services? and click on ?Consecrated Stewards.? Back to top RETIREMENT CELEBRATION FOR PASTOR VOELKER Pastor William Voelker will be retiring from active ministry on July 1, 2007. On this day he will be presenting the sermon at three morning services (8:00, 9:30, and 10:30) at Peace Lutheran Church in Grand Island, followed by other festivities. The day is open to all who have had their lives impacted by the Voelker?s. * A meal will be served immediately following the late service. * Everyone is invited to stay for a program which will be held in the Life Center immediately following the meal, around 1:00 p.m. Please come ready to laugh. * There will be "time to mingle" with Pastor and Judith following the program, including cake & refreshments. * The congregation would like to put together a book of comments from people about how Pastor Voelker & Judith have impacted their lives. They are hopeful these comments will come from members of his previous congregations as well as Peace members, past and present, and fellow pastors in the District. Comments should be sent to Peace Lutheran Church, 1710 North Road, Grand Island, NE 68803. Back to top ORPHAN GRAIN TRAIN FISH FEED IN LINCOLN Good Shepherd, Lincoln, 3825 Wildbriar Lane (just north of 40th and Old Cheney), will be hosting a Wisconsin Style Fish Feed this Sunday, May 20, serving from 11 am to 1 pm. A free will offering will be taken in support of Orphan Grain Train?s Lincoln facility and in honor of Pastor Poppe?s 10th anniversary at Good Shepherd. Everyone is welcome! Back to top WHEAT RIDGE MINISTRIES TO ACCEPT CONGREGATION HEALTH AND HOPE GRANT PROPOSALS Wheat Ridge Ministries invites and encourages Lutheran congregations to submit applications from July 1, 2007, through September 30, 2007, for its Congregation Health and Hope Grant program. The purpose of the Congregation Health and Hope Grants is to facilitate the initial development of congregation-based health and wellness ministries. All Lutheran congregations - individually or in partnership with other congregations - are eligible for these grants. The maximum amount per grant is $2,000 for a single congregation and $6,000 for collaborative efforts involving two or more congregations. The amount granted by Wheat Ridge must be matched dollar for dollar by the congregation. Approximately 20 grants will be awarded to congregational projects in November. The focus of the Health and Hope Grant is on new congregation-based health ministries developed under the auspices of a congregation health committee or cabinet. Projects must support and promote the health and well-being of people in the congregation and local community. Grant funds may be invested in health-related events and leadership development; staff training; planning; materials, resources or equipment directly related to program development; or contract services or new staff essential for program development. The grant is not to be used for existing staff salaries; congregation or school building programs; or general church or school expenses. Congregations interested in applying for a Wheat Ridge Congregation Health and Hope Grant can visit the Wheat Ridge website (www.wheatridge.org ) to download a complete list of guidelines, as well as the proposal format. Any questions may be referred to the Wheat Ridge office at 800-762-6748. Deadline for submitting applications is September 30, 2007. Wheat Ridge Ministries is recognized throughout the world as an independent Lutheran charitable organization that seeds new ministries of health and hope in the name of the healing Christ. Currently, more than 100 ministries are receiving assistance through Wheat Ridge funding. In addition to funding grants, Wheat Ridge also connects and equips people, congregations and organizations with health and hope ministries. Back to top SEMINARY CONTINUING EDUCATION CLASS IN KEARNEY Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne, Indiana, is offering continuing education classes this summer to help participants: ? GROW in knowledge and understanding of biblical and theological matters. ? REFRESH their minds and find new enthusiasm. ? RETREAT to the study of God?s Word in a relaxed, informal atmosphere and return to their congregations equipped with new information. ? CONNECT with others who are searching for biblical insights into the challenges faced at home, in the world, and in the church. One class will be offered at Zion, Kearney, July 9-13. The Lutheran Way with the Liturgy will be presented by Naomichi Masaki, Ph.D. At the time when we are surrounded by various views and opinions on worship and liturgy, and in the context of having opportunities to learn from other Christian traditions concerning the questions of the liturgy, there is a possibility of doing it the Lutheran way. Rather than adopting what others are doing and see if we can find some theological justification of that, Lutherans go to the heart of the matter, the Gospel. We will reflect on liturgy with several key points in mind, such as Amt Christi, Giving and Receiving, sacramentum/beneficium and sacrificium, Gnadenmittel and Gnadenmittelamt, and Christian vocation. We will seek to confess the coherence of doctrine, liturgy, and Christian life. 3 C.E.U.s For more information, contact site coordinator Rev. North Sherrill at: Zion Lutheran Church 2421 Ave. C Kearney, NE 68847 308-234-3410 PastorSherrill at zelcs.org Back to top CAMP LUTHER ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION Camp Luther will celebrate 40 years of outdoor ministry during the weekend of June 1-3, 2007. Weekend events will include camper and former staff reunion; special meals, golf tournament, GLOW GAMES 07, and more. The Sunday campfire devotional time will feature Rev. Tom Brinkley, Mr. Kevin Bueltmann, and others. Contact Camp Luther at 402-352-5655 or www.campluther.org for more information. Back to top NEBRASKA LUTHERANS FOR CONFESSIONAL STUDY TO MEET The May gathering of the Nebraska Lutherans for Confessional Study (NLCS) is Thursday, May 24, at Concordia University in Seward. Refreshments will be served at 10 a.m. in TLEC 113. Rev. James DeLoach from Immanuel, Louisville, will lead the morning topic at 10:30 on ?A Lutheran Response to Pietism.? Following lunch, Rev. Bert Mueller from Trinity, Amherst, will speak regarding Formula of Concord, Solid Declaration, Article XI, Election. The meeting will conclude by 2:30 p.m. Everyone is invited, both clergy and laity. Back to top TRAINING EVENT TO EQUIP VOLUNTEERS FOR ?THE 72? ?The 72 -- Partners on the Road,? formerly known as ?Harvesters for Christ,? is an outreach ministry of LCMS World Mission. Volunteer teams are requested by a congregation, and serve the congregation on-site for three or four weeks. The host congregation covers the cost of its team?s housing, transportation, and meals. Volunteers interested in joining this ministry may request applications for an Oct. 17-21 training event in Concordia, Mo. The training will equip volunteers for helping host congregations start, enhance, or expand outreach ministry in their communities. To request an application, call 800-433-3954, or send an e-mail to the72 at lcms.org. Applications are not available online. July 30 is the deadline for requesting applications. When an application is submitted for ?The 72? training event, it must include a recommendation letter from the applicant?s pastor, as well as information on each application that would be necessary to complete a basic background check. Applicants may be couples or individuals, according to Rev. Al Tormoehlen, director of ?The 72.? He explained that while one married couple might serve as a congregation?s ?team,? individuals make up three- or four-person teams. All expenses for new team-member training for ?The 72,? including travel, will be covered by grant from the Marvin M. Schwan Charitable Foundation. In a Reporter story last month, Tormoehlen stressed that ?The 72? will help realize the Synod?s Ablaze! goal of sharing the Gospel with 50 million unreached or uncommitted people in the United States by 2017,? the 500th Anniversary of the Reformation. Back to top JAMAICAN MISSION FIELD RECEIVES NEW MISSIONARY FROM NIGERIA Dale Talsma, Area Facilitator for LCMS World Mission, reported that the Lutheran Church in Nigeria (LCN), having sought God's guidance, has chosen one of their pastors to send as a missionary to the country of Jamaica. Following is his report: The LCN president, Rev. E.E. Ekanem, has informed LCMS World Mission that they have approved the selection of Rev. Obot Ite, together with his wife Abasifreke, to be their missionary to serve in Jamaica. We rejoice in God's grace and how He has worked in the Lutheran Church of Nigeria to enable them to send one of their finest pastors and his wife to serve in this mission! We will send more information as further developments progress. Thank you for your continued prayers! We ask for your continued prayers for this mission, for preparing the way in Jamaica for the new missionaries, for the Ite family as they prepare for the new call God has placed on their lives to serve in such a distant place from their homes, and for our brothers and sisters in Jamaica who will be receiving and working together with the missionary to testify to God's grace in Jesus Christ! Back to top ERIN BODE TEAMS WITH LCMS WORLD RELIEF AND HUMAN CARE TO AID SOUTH AFRICAN YOUTH Making a first-ever foray into the music production business, LCMS World Relief and Human Care--the mercy arm of The Lutheran Church--Missouri Synod--announces the launch of an inspirational CD to raise funds to provide educational opportunities for South African youth. The CD, The Themba Girls with the Erin Bode Group, is available through a web site, www.ThembaGirls.org, for a donation of $25 or more. The benefit CD is part of a campaign by LCMS World Relief and Human Care to raise funds for the Themba Trust, a nonprofit foundation that operates both a girls and a boys high school in Dirkiesdorp, a village several hours southeast of Johannesburg. This area is marked by great poverty, limited educational opportunities, and one of the highest HIV/AIDS infection rates in the world. The Themba Trust serves approximately 500 students, and also provides the boarding and tuition costs for about a third of the students. Because of the tragic impact of HIV/AIDS, the foundation also provides for a growing number of students whose families can't afford tuition due to the loss of the family "breadwinner." Proceeds from the CD will be used to provide scholarships for these students. Jazz singer Erin Bode and her trio partnered with the Themba Girls choir, one of more than 15 choirs from Themba, to record the CD. The CD was introduced with a benefit concert held April 23 at the famed Sheldon Concert Hall in St. Louis. The local NBC television affiliate covered the event with exclusive backstage access and aired the story on Mother's Day. Visit the KSDK Web site to see and hear reporter Deanne Lane's story: http://www.ksdk.com/news/cover_story/cover_article.aspx?storyid=119099. For more information, visit www.ThembaGirls.org or call LCMS World Relief and Human Care at (800) 248-1930, ext. 1380. Back to top Blessings, Nichole Hetz Nebraska District LCMS Director of Communications and Events 1-888-643-2961 nicholeh at ndlcms.org www.ndlcms.org * Please Note: The inclusion of items in the Update from outside sources is for informational purposes only. Inclusion of such items does not constitute District endorsement. -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: not available Type: text/html Size: 51155 bytes Desc: not available Url : http://lists.ndlcms.org/pipermail/distupd/attachments/20070516/78dc8283/attachment.txt From distupd at lists.ndlcms.org Thu May 17 08:15:57 2007 From: distupd at lists.ndlcms.org (District Updates) Date: Thu, 17 May 2007 13:15:57 -0000 Subject: [DistUpd] Kansas Ready for Volunteers Message-ID: The following information was released yesterday from Lutheran Disaster Response regarding the need for volunteers to help with clean-up following the Kansas tornados. Please share this information with your congregation members and others you think might be interested in helping in this way. Responding to our neighbor in time of need is one of the ways to show God's love. Volunteers are now needed for the recovery effort in Greensburg, Kansas. Needs are for both debris removal and for field walking. All volunteers are being coordinated by Americorps members. All volunteers and volunteer groups must make arrangement in advance by calling 314-313-4779. It is also highly recommended that you call Kathie LaShell, the Lutheran Disaster Coordinator, who can provide orientation and debriefing for your group. Her number is 308-520-5410. Arrangements for volunteers who come from a distance to stay in a tent camp can also be made to through the Americorps number. It is hoped that dorm-type facilities may be made available later through Orphan Grain Train. It is estimated that the need for volunteers will continue for the next 90 days. Youth age 13-17 may also volunteer as long as they are accompanied by an adult (4 to 1 ratio). Work crews should wear sturdy shoes and work gloves, and come equipped with water, masks, and sun block. A tetanus shot, if needed, will be proved on location. Individuals trained in spiritual care (such as Stephen Ministers, etc.) are also needed. Let Kathie know if you can provide this kind of assistance. Financial assistance can be provided for the survivors by donations that are sent to LCMS World Relief and Human Care. LCMS World Relief/Human Care gave a $30,000 emergency grant -- to be administered by Our Savior Lutheran Church, Pratt -- to help the members of Peace, Greensburg, meet immediate needs. The Synod's mercy arm also announced that it would match donations up to a total of $200,000 for those affected by tornadoes. To support LCMS World Relief/Human Care's disaster-response efforts in Greensburg and elsewhere, send donations to LCMS World Relief/Human Care, P.O. Box 66861, St. Louis, MO 63166-9810. Write "Kansas tornadoes" in the memo line. To donate via credit card, call (888) 930-4438. For aerial images of the disaster area visit: www.kansas.com/static/slides/050507tornadoaerials/. Nichole Hetz Nebraska District LCMS Director of Communications and Events 1-888-643-2961 nicholeh at ndlcms.org www.ndlcms.org -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: not available Type: text/html Size: 7739 bytes Desc: not available Url : http://lists.ndlcms.org/pipermail/distupd/attachments/20070517/9ca2b431/attachment.txt From distupd at lists.ndlcms.org Thu May 24 08:18:21 2007 From: distupd at lists.ndlcms.org (District Updates) Date: Thu, 24 May 2007 13:18:21 -0000 Subject: [DistUpd] May 23 Message-ID: Update for May 23 A publication of the Nebraska District, a District ABLAZE! Greetings in the name of our Heavenly Father. * Early July Reporter Deadline * "Christian Law Enforcement Chaplaincy-Theology and Practice" Workshop * Chancel Furniture Available * Create a College Connection Now * Immanuel, Schuyler, to Host Mission Festival * Let's Celebrate the Lord's Blessings! * The Mission Belles from Divine Shepherd, Omaha * New From Concordia Publishing House EARLY JULY REPORTER DEADLINE The deadline for submitting news to be considered for the July Nebraska Lutheran Reporter is next Wednesday, May 30. Information may be emailed to Reporter at ndlcms.org or mailed to the District Office at PO Box 407, Seward, NE 68434, in time to be in the office on or before the deadline. The Nebraska Lutheran Reporter shares information about events taking place, workshops and conferences being offered, and ministry items that affect and include members of the District. Over 40,000 copies of the Reporter are sent to District congregations each month. Back to top "CHRISTIAN LAW ENFORCEMENT CHAPLAINCY-THEOLOGY AND PRACTICE" WORKSHOP Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, together with Peace Officer Ministries, will host "Christian Law Enforcement Chaplaincy-Theology and Practice," July 9-13, on the Seminary campus. This workshop will offer unique accredited training for chaplains, peace officers, and pastors, focusing on effective Christian ministry to and through law enforcement. The workshop will explore issues such as adopting a sound biblical theology; understanding law enforcement as vocation (God's calling); distinguishing and properly applying Law and Gospel and God's Two Kingdoms within a law enforcement context; addressing practical, legal, historical, cultural and missiological considerations; employing Christian stress management and officer spiritual survival strategies; and identifying characteristics of a competent Christian chaplain. An added feature will be a Department of Homeland Security (DHS) sponsored class, "FEMA AWR160 Weapons of Mass Destruction Awareness Level Training for First Responders," intended to inform participants about critical incidents and to assist in pre-qualifying for critical incident response. The main presenter will be Rev. Steve Lee, executive director of Peace Officer Ministries, Inc. (POM), a national Christian non-profit 501c3 law enforcement chaplaincy he founded in 1996. POM produces materials for officers and chaplains, including a special law enforcement edition Bible and a book by Lee titled "Backup on the Beat." Lee has served as a pastor of The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod since 1992. An additional presenter will be Mike Dahmer, BSEE, P.E., a former law enforcement officer and current licensed professional engineer with expertise in national security, counter-terrorism and homeland security. Concordia Seminary faculty presenters will be Dr. Jeffrey Oschwald, associate professor of exegetical theology; Dr. Timothy Dost, assistant professor of historical theology; and Dr. Charles Arand, professor and chairman of the department of systematic theology. The cost to attend "Law Enforcement Chaplaincy-Theology and Practice" is $295 and includes four breakfasts, five lunches and two dinners. Housing is not included. A total of 2.7 CEUs is available for full participation. For more information, contact the Office of Continuing Education and Parish Services at 314-505-7123, ce at csl.edu; or visit the Seminary's website at www.csl.edu . Back to top CHANCEL FURNITURE AVAILABLE Faith, Lincoln, moved in to a brand new facility after selling its church and school that was built in 1962. Faith removed the chancel cross (16' tall with 7' cross arms) that hung from the back chancel wall. Also removed was the 51"tall X 48" wide X 41" deep pulpit, a portable pulpit of similar size, and two chancel flower stands. The chancel furniture is beautiful custom-crafted wood furniture in like new condition. Faith is willing to give them away to a church that can use them. Any interested ministries will be responsible for picking up the furniture. Back to top CREATE A COLLEGE CONNECTION NOW Church office staff: please consider including the following information in your newsletter or bulletins throughout the summer. College students: get connected before you get to college! Are you looking for Christian fellowship, seeking spiritual growth, or looking for fun? Let us help you get connected before college starts! Please send your summer contact info to: missions at ndlcms.org or visit the Nebraska District website, www.ndlcms.org , to share your contact information and the school you will be attending this fall. Back to top IMMANUEL, SCHUYLER, TO HOST MISSION FESTIVAL Immanuel, rural Schuyler (949 Road 7) will be holding their annual Mission Fest on Sunday, June 10, 2007. Worship will be at 10:30 a.m., followed by a chicken dinner at 11:30 a.m., and a mission presentation at noon. The guest speaker will be church planter Jerry Steger from Peace, Columbus, who will speak of the Synod's church planting mission, particularly in Columbus. Back to top LET'S CELEBRATE THE LORD'S BLESSINGS! Assistant Professor of Education Judith J. Ruskamp was named Peru State College 2007 Teacher Excellence Award Winner. She was honored at PSC's graduation ceremony on May 5. In addition, Professor Ruskamp also served as the address speaker to the more than 500 graduates of PSC, their parents and guests. The Teacher Excellence Award is given annually to one outstanding full time faculty member at each of the three state colleges: Peru, Wayne, and Chadron. Recipients of the campus award from each of the colleges are finalists for Nebraska State College Systems' Teacher of the Year Award. Judy graduated from St. Paul's Lutheran School at Arlington, Nebraska, Arlington High School, and received her Bachelors degree in English from the University of South Dakota, her Masters in Education from Peru State College and is pursing a doctorate in education from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Judy, husband Jerry, and daughters Laura and Christine live near Auburn where they are members of Trinity Lutheran Church. She has served on the Evangelism Committee for the past 3 years currently completing a year as chair person; has taught the Trinity High School Youth Sunday School class for a number of years and sings in the church choir. Congratulations, Judy! The Lord is using His people to touch lives throughout the Nebraska District and into the world. If you have a "Good News" story to share, send it to communications at ndlcms.org. Back to top THE MISSION BELLES FROM DIVINE SHEPHERD, OMAHA The following account, submitted by Director Betty Buller, shares the story behind the Divine Shepherd, Omaha, "Mission Belles," and the witness they give to their congregation and community. It was early in the summer of 2005 and I had just finished with my morning devotions and prayer time. I had asked the Lord to give me guidance as I searched for additional ways to serve Him. We know the old saying, "Be careful what you pray for." The Lord answered this prayer request very quickly. The very next day Eleanor Hingst called me with an idea. We had never met, but Eleanor had asked the church secretary whom to call and the rest is history. Both of us are members of Divine Shepherd Lutheran Church in Omaha. Eleanor thought it would be a good idea to start a women's choir that could entertain people in retirement and nursing homes and would I be interested in directing a group like this? We began to talk to people about this choir, it was mentioned in the church bulletin, and by August rehearsals began. It was decided that we would rehearse weekly and present a program once a month. We also might sing for worship services occasionally but our main mission would be entertaining people who don't get out much any more. We would sing some old-time favorites, secular songs, and spiritual songs. Since our mission was decided and we are ladies, we chose "Mission Belles" as the name for our choir. Charles Cohen, the music director at Divine Shepherd and our awesome accompanist, is the only man who travels with the ladies. We have such a good time rehearsing and getting acquainted with one another. At the present time we are learning two new songs to add to our repertoire - "The Sunny Side of the Street" and John Rutter's "The Lord Bless You and Keep You." The first program was presented at the Montclair Nursing Home on November 3, 2005. Since that time, the choir has sung in approximately 20 nursing/retirement homes including The Good Samaritan Home, The Thomas Fitzgerald Veterans Home, The Lutheran Home, Immanuel Fontenelle, and others. It is awesome to see faces light up when they hear "You Are My Sunshine" or "Amazing Grace," and the audience is encouraged to sing along. One of the activities directors even had a few people dancing. Tears flow from the eyes of singers and listeners alike on occasion. Music does speak to the soul! Programs always include a few hymns and spirituals and people are reminded that Jesus loves them. Most programs last about thirty minutes and then the ladies spend time meeting and visiting with the residents. The "Belles" have also offered special music at several worship services at Divine Shepherd, sung for a women's retreat at the church, an Assistance League Christmas brunch, and there are new opportunities coming up all the time. At the close of each program we leave the people with a musical benediction. Now may the God of peace be with you all. Give to you every good that you may do His will. To Christ Be glory forever. Amen Back to top NEW FROM CONCORDIA PUBLISHING HOUSE Concordia Publishing House, the publishing arm of The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod, has a number of new items available for all ages. Visit the CPH website at www.cph.org for more information or to order these new items. Scribble, Dribble, & Glue actively involves children ages 6 to 11 in 40 creative projects that reinforce Bible stories and faith concepts. The simple instructions, easy-to-find materials, and lesson applications help teachers prepare. Item #12-4293YBG - $9.99 Bible Craft Potpourri: 50 Clever Bible Craft Projects brings a potpourri of creative art projects that reinforce Bible stories and concepts. This teacher resource combines bible lessons with craft projects to help teach fundamental art skills. Children ages 8 to 11 are given a creative outlet for expression of their faith. Item #12-4294YBG - $9.99 New Martin Luther School Resources - Martin Luther resources invite youth children to learn about this man of the church. Resources include: Martin Luther flannelgraph (22-3049DNR - $39.99), The Story of Martin Luther activity book (22-3048DNR - $6.99), and a Luther's Rose mobile in 4 and 18 inch sizes (24-1297DNR - $3.99 and 24-1296DNR - $12.99 respectively). You Ask About...Relationships - As teens mature, they have a lot of questions about the world around them. You Ask About...Relationships gets to the heart of it all by answering questions about relationships with parents and authorities, siblings, friends, boyfriends and girlfriends, co-workers, teammates, enemies, and annoying people. Item #12-4275YBG - $9.99 Eight Models of Ethnic Ministry - This collection of eight essays looks at the current state of LCMS mission to Jewish, American Indian, African American, Hispanic, Muslim, Chinese, African immigrant, and Haitian communities in the United States and beyond. Written by those actively involved in outreach to these groups, the essays provide real-world data and perspectives and encourage Christians to identify people groups in their immediate area that may be reached with the Good News of salvation in Jesus Christ. Item #15-5099LPR - $19.99 Lutherans Against Hitler: The Untold Story - While much has been written about the Christian churches in Hitler's Germany, no books have focused on the viewpoint of Confessional Lutheran churches, their leaders, and theologians...until now. In Lutherans Against Hitler: The Untold Story, important new historical sources shed a different light upon the teachings and actions of Lutherans under Adolf Hitler. Item #53-1137YBG - $42.99 Luther and World Mission provides a new interpretation of Luther and mission and serves to "rehabilitate" the reformer in modern missiological studies. Author Ingemar ?berg argues that Luther fully embraced the missionary task to the world. Because Luther was foremost a teacher and pastor, his writings interact with Scripture and address current, local situations. Yet in Luther's Bible exposition, pamphlets, and treatises, a clear and passionate commitment to the Gospel and world mission emerges. Item #15-5051LAR - $49.99 Worshiping with Angels and Archangels: An Introduction to the Divine Service leads worshipers through Divine Service I helping them understand its significance. Surrounding the words of the Liturgy are clearly written explanations, Scripture passages, definitions, and striking artwork. Item #22-309DNR - $6.99 The Biblioteca teologica Concordia (Concordia Theological Library) series from Editorial Concordia is unique. Written in Spanish by leading Spanish theologians, the series offers theological studies that can only be found here. Titles in this series include: * Cristologia: Cristo Jesus, centro y praxis del pueblo de Dios (Christology: Jesus Christ, Center and Praxis of God's People) by Alberto Garcia. Item #16-6191HNR - $13.99 (new) * Hermeneutica: Principios de interpretacion Biblica (Hermeneutics: Principles of Bible Interpretation) by Rodolfo H. Blank. Item #16-6193HNR - $11.99 (new) * Pneumtologia: El Espiritu Santo y la espiritualidad de la iglesia (Pneumatology: The Holy Spirit and the Spirituality of the Church) by Leopoldo Sanchez. Item #16-6184HNR - $14.99 * La adoracion Biblica: Enfoques hacia la adoracion hispana (Biblical Worship: A Look at Hispanic Worship) by Douglas R. Groll. Item #16-6185HNR - $10.99 Back to top Nichole Hetz Nebraska District LCMS Director of Communications and Events 1-888-643-2961 nicholeh at ndlcms.org www.ndlcms.org -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: not available Type: text/html Size: 35226 bytes Desc: not available Url : http://lists.ndlcms.org/pipermail/distupd/attachments/20070524/99bea109/attachment.txt From distupd at lists.ndlcms.org Wed May 30 15:22:02 2007 From: distupd at lists.ndlcms.org (District Updates) Date: Wed, 30 May 2007 20:22:02 -0000 Subject: [DistUpd] May 30 Message-ID: Update for May 30 A publication of the Nebraska District, a District ABLAZE! Greetings in the name of our all-powerful Heavenly Father, who sent the power of the Holy Spirit on that first Pentecost and who still fills us with His power through our baptism. May we go out and be powerful, Spirit-filled witnesses, "declaring the wonders of God" each day. (Acts 2:11) * Prayer Request * No Email Update Next Week * District Office Closed June 7 * Plans Moving Forward for Nebraska District Youth Gathering * Faith Community Responses to Domestic Violence * Lutheran Youth Encounter Looking for Members * Family Film Festival in Lincoln * Teacher of 37 Years Retires * Peace, Grand Island, to Ordain Son of the Congregation * Concordia University Student Receives Student Teaching Award * The Rev. John Arthur Nunes Named President of Lutheran World Relief * Reaching Rural America for Christ Heartland Conference to be Held in Nebraska PRAYER REQUEST Jim and Nancy Stepp - Please remember in prayer Jim and Nancy Stepp and their three-year old daughter, Sarah, who are members at Good Shepherd, Lincoln. Last weekend, while they were at a family wedding in California, their home near Denton was completely destroyed by fire. Please keep this family in your prayers as they rebuild. Back to top NO EMAIL UPDATE NEXT WEEK There will be no District Email Update next week, but the regular weekly schedule will resume with the next newsletter on Wednesday, June 13. Information to be shared may be sent any time to communications at ndlcms.org. Back to top DISTRICT OFFICE CLOSED JUNE 7 The District Office in Seward will be closed Thursday, June 7, for a staff retreat. The office will reopen at 8:00 a.m. Friday morning, June 8. Information and answers to many questions are always available on the District website at www.ndlcms.org . Back to top PLANS MOVING FORWARD FOR NEBRASKA DISTRICT YOUTH GATHERING As many congregations make last minute arrangements for the National Youth Gathering in Florida this summer, the planning committee for the Nebraska District Youth Gathering is hard at work. The District Youth Gathering, scheduled for November 21-23, 2008, will be held at the Holiday Inn Convention Centre in Omaha. More information will be sent to District congregations later this summer. Please help create excitement for this inspiring and exciting event by passing this date and location to the youth leader in your congregation. Back to top FAITH COMMUNITY RESPONSES TO DOMESTIC VIOLENCE Domestic violence could be affecting someone you know. Would you know how to respond if someone confided in you? God calls us to reach out to one another with love and compassion. How can we best do this, while providing for the safety and well-being of the victim? How do we offer help and hope to the batterer? Pastors, teachers, DCE's, church/school secretaries, lay leaders, and laity will all benefit from this one-day workshop, Faith Community Responses to Domestic Violence, being offered Saturday, June 16, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Concordia, Seward. The low $8.00 registration fee will cover the cost of lunch and breaks. All conference materials and speakers are provided through grant funding. A CD of resources will be sent home with each participant to assist with educating others in their church and school. More information and registration materials were sent to each church office. The information is also available on the District website at www.ndlcms.org . Back to top LUTHERAN YOUTH ENCOUNTER LOOKING FOR MEMBERS Lutheran Youth Encounter sponsors international teams to churches in several countries. Their relational ministry utilizes music and other arts in sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ. These teams serve for 12 months beginning each August, visiting congregations in the States before and after their overseas ministry. Each team is comprised of five to eight members; most members are 21 years old and many are college graduates. Persons who have grown up in an overseas culture are highly effective in this ministry. Seventy percent of team alumni go on to serve as full-time church professionals. This coming August, team members are needed for the following teams: Kindred (Ecuador, Venezuela, Columbia), New Dawn (Taiwan, Philippines), CrossFire (Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Ethiopia), and Watermark (two teams, Denmark and Germany). For more information, see www.youthencounter.org, send an e-mail to garyk at youthencounter.org or maryb at youthencounter.org, or call 1-800-659-6884, Ext. 8474. If you know of someone who might be interested in serving on an International Team, please consider sharing their name with Lutheran Youth Encounter. Back to top FAMILY FILM FESTIVAL IN LINCOLN Looking for a fun, wholesome activity for the entire family - from toddlers to Grandpa and Grandma? Come to the 5th annual Family Film Festival on Saturday, June 2, at Christ Lutheran Church, 43rd & Sumner, Lincoln. Starting at 6:00 p.m., a barbeque pulled pork dinner with side dishes and homemade desserts will be served. While you eat, enjoy music performed by Room 211 band members, Steve Wells and Katie Tiedeman. Kids of all ages will enjoy carnival rides and games (each game includes a prize). There will be mini-train rides, a giant slide, and bouncers. And, back by popular demand are the Turbo Tubs and the obstacle course. And if that's not enough!! At sunset (approximately 8:45 p.m.), pull up your lawn chairs and blankets to watch the family move "Over the Hedge" on the giant outdoor screen. Concessions will be available during the movie. Dinner is $8.00 for adults; $4.00 for kids. Unlimited rides/games bracelets are $10.00 for children ages 2 and up. Tickets are available in the Christ Schools office before June 2 or may be purchased the night of the event. For more information about the event, call 483-7774, ext. 128. Back to top TEACHER OF 37 YEARS RETIRES Margaret Smith will be retiring from the ministry after 37 years of service at Zion Lutheran School in Kearney, Nebraska. Mrs. Smith has taught nursery school, first, and second grades over the years. She is a wonderful teacher who has been a true servant of Christ. Zion Lutheran Church and school will be having a special potluck and open house on June 3 following the 10:30 a.m. church service. We join with the congregation in giving thanks to God for Mrs. Smith's hard work and dedication over the years, and we ask Him to continue to bless her as she moves on to new ministry opportunities. Back to top PEACE, GRAND ISLAND, TO ORDAIN SON OF THE CONGREGATION Michael Giddings is being ordained at Peace Lutheran Church, Grand Island, on June 10 at 3:00 p.m. A member of Peace, he has been called by the North Dakota District to serve as a missionary-at-large in Fargo, ND. Everyone is invited to attend this joyous event. Back to top CONCORDIA UNIVERSITY STUDENT RECEIVES STUDENT TEACHING AWARD Concordia University, Nebraska student Kayla Anderson, a senior from Omaha, was named Student Teacher of the Year by the Nebraska English Language Arts Council on May 15. Anderson has been working in the classrooms of Seward High School teachers Shannon Davis and Lynette Petersen to complete her student teaching requirements. "I'm very excited that my cooperating teachers thought that highly of me, enough to nominate me for this award," said Anderson. "I have absolutely loved Seward High." Anderson also expressed her appreciation for the education program at Concordia and for the experience of student teaching. "There are just some things we have to learn by doing," she said. The NELAC is an official affiliate of the National Council of Teachers of English. Back to top THE REV. JOHN ARTHUR NUNES NAMED PRESIDENT OF LUTHERAN WORLD RELIEF The Rev. John Arthur Nunes will become the fourth president of Lutheran World Relief on July 1. Lutheran World Relief's (LWR's) board of directors chose Nunes as president of LWR at a board meeting on May 21. A well-known and highly regarded pastor, theologian, speaker, and community organizer, Rev. Nunes has served as a management consultant, pastor, teacher, youth director, and parish musician. He is assistant professor of theology at Concordia University, River Forest (Chicago, Illinois). He serves also as a pastor for Bethany Lutheran Church, Chicago. Additionally, he provides consulting support to Wheat Ridge Ministries as a Staff Associate for Urban Ministry Research; he has served as director for church resource development at Concordia Publishing House (St. Louis, Missouri); and as a Research Fellow for the Acton Institute. He is a Doctor of Philosophy candidate from the Lutheran School of Theology in Chicago, Illinois. Lutheran World Relief is a ministry of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA); The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod (LCMS); individuals; and parish groups in international relief, development, advocacy, and social responsibility. Back to top REACHING RURAL AMERICA FOR CHRIST HEARTLAND CONFERENCE TO BE HELD IN NEBRASKA America continues to change. Nowhere is this more apparent than in rural/small town communities. Effectively engaging this ever-changing culture for Christ is one of today's great ministry challenges. Reaching Rural America for Christ brings together congregational leaders throughout the Heartland to share a common experience and explore the ministry challenges triggered by constant change. This conference will be led by the Saint Paul Institute for Education (SPIFE) from Concordia, Missouri, and held at the Lied Lodge and Conference Center in Nebraska City, on November 8-10. Congregational lay leaders and clergy are encouraged to attend this conference designed to survey the ever-changing rural culture to examine its impact on rural/small town communities, build a network for leadership training and ministry support, and investigate stewardship attitudes and action. For more information or to register for this conference, visit the SPIFE website at www.spife.org or call 888-463-5127. Participation is limited to the first 110 registrants. Back to top Blessings, Nichole Hetz Nebraska District LCMS Director of Communications and Events 1-888-643-2961 nicholeh at ndlcms.org www.ndlcms.org * Please Note: The inclusion of items in the Update from outside sources is for informational purposes only. Inclusion of such items does not constitute District endorsement. -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... 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