From distupd at lists.ndlcms.org Wed Dec 3 15:03:04 2008 From: distupd at lists.ndlcms.org (District Updates) Date: Wed, 03 Dec 2008 21:03:04 -0000 Subject: [DistUpd] December 3 Message-ID: Update for December 3 A publication of the Nebraska District, a District ABLAZE! Advent greetings in the name our Savior, for whom we wait in hopeful anticipation. According to some traditions, the first candle on the Advent wreath symbolizes hope. The prophets and others in the Old Testament hoped on the promises God gave them regarding the Savior. We join with them in hopeful anticipation of the coming of the Savior, both in the celebration of His birth at Christmas and at His second coming. May the Lord grant each of us the eyes to see the opportunities to share the hope we have in Jesus Christ with those around us this week. * Prayer Requests * Guitar Found at Youth Gathering * Youth Gathering Band Footage Available Online * Birthday Celebration for Rev. Dr. Ted Janzow * Good News from Fan into Flame * Living Nativities in Nebraska * Life Sunday Materials Available * Nebraska Lutherans for Confessional Study * Seminary to Offer Choir Member Workshop * Lutherans For Life Invites Others to Join January March PRAYER REQUESTS Bishop Andrew Elisa - Please continue to lift up in prayer Rev. Andrew Elisa, Bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Sudan. Bishop Elisa underwent brain surgery this past Sunday, November 30, and remains hospitalized in Jordan. Please pray for him and his wife, Linda, as they are far from their home and family at this very stressful time. We ask the Great Physician to grant healing, comfort, and strength at this time. We also lift up the Lutheran Church in Sudan, as they continue in ministry without the leadership of Bishop Elisa at this time. We also ask the Lord to provide the financial resources needed for these medical treatments. The hospitalization, treatments, and travel are very expensive (over $12,000 so far), and an appeal has come forward from LCMS World Mission and Lutheran Heritage Foundation to assist Bishop Elisa and his family in this time of need. Since the Nebraska District in its 2006 Convention voted to partner with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Sudan and is currently involved in various Lutheran Christian mission projects in Sudan, this appeal for prayer and gifts to help the Elisa family is coming to you. You may send monetary gifts to: Lutheran Heritage Foundation World Mission Center Attention: Jeff Rahn 51474 Romeo Plank Macomb, MI 48042 Please note "Andrew Elisa Medical Expenses" on the memo line of your check. OR You may go to www.lhfmissions.org and click on the article about Bishop Elisa to give a gift using a credit card. Back to top GUITAR FOUND AT YOUTH GATHERING Pastors and youth leaders - if your youth group attended the District Youth Gathering in Omaha in November and one of your students took a guitar along but came home without one, we might have it! To claim the guitar, contact Don Weber at the District Office at 888-643-2961 or donw at ndlcms.org. Back to top YOUTH GATHERING BAND FOOTAGE AVAILABLE ONLINE The Youth Gathering band, 211 Band, has posted video footage from the District Youth Gathering on its website. Visit http://www.211band.com/Index.asp?PageID=10638 to view the videos. Pictures of the band from the weekend are also available on the picture page at http://www.211band.com/Index.asp?PageID=10699. Back to top BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION FOR REV. DR. TED JANZOW Everyone is invited to celebrate Concordia University, Nebraska President Emeritus W. Theophil "Ted" Janzow's 90th birthday. An open house will be held on December 18 from 10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. in the lobby of Janzow Campus Center at Concordia University, Seward. Rev. Dr. Janzow served as Concordia's 6th president from 1963-1977. Prior to his presidency, he was a member of the faculty and taught sociology. Following his presidency at Concordia, he became the first president of Concordia Seminary, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. He has authored a number of books including his own autobiography, Servant for Jesus' Sake, and The Smoke of the Spirit, a collection of presidential columns printed in the Broadcaster in the 1960's and 70's. He currently lives in Lincoln. His four children, Fred, Frank, Kathy, and Dan, plan to attend the open house as well. Back to top GOOD NEWS FROM FAN INTO FLAME The Lord continues to work in the hearts of His people, and as more Nebraska District congregations share with their members the urgent need to tell people about the saving work of Jesus Christ, hearts are moved to support this work with gifts and prayers. That's what Fan into Flame is: the invitation for each member in every congregation to be involved in supporting Ablaze! mission projects through gifts and prayers. Every gift to this unique mission endeavor goes to support telling people about Jesus in four mission fields as outlined in Acts 1:8 - locally, district-wide, nationally, and internationally. Just this week, the Nebraska District received Fan into Flame pledge agreements and reports from two more congregations: Immanuel, Butte and Grace, Wayne. Immanuel made a pledge of new money from their budget over and above their current ministry giving. The congregation of Grace implemented a congregational appeal based on the cottage visit model and held their commitment Sunday in November. The first report received indicated congregational pledges and gifts of nearly $55,000! These congregations, together with several generous donors and 30 other congregations in the Nebraska District that have or are currently participating in Fan into Flame, contributed to the over $2.9 million given or pledged so far from Nebraska to support sharing the Good News of salvation through Jesus Christ. Just imagine the outreach projects that could be supported to spread the Gospel message if your congregation joined in this effort! Other congregations are still considering how they will participate. Many congregations will discuss this opportunity at their January voters' meetings and make decisions. If your congregation has not discussed Fan into Flame or decided how to participate, make plans now to talk about this at your next meeting. More information, as well as a Congregational Pledge Agreement Form, is available on the District's Fan into Flame website, www.ndlcms.org/news/FiF. Questions may be directed to Andrea Essling at the District Office, Andrea.Essling at lcms.org or 888-643-2961. Back to top LIVING NATIVITIES IN NEBRASKA Pastors and church office staff, please consider sharing these opportunities in your upcoming bulletins. Thank you. Eagle - A living nativity will be held on Sunday, December 14, starting at 6:30 p.m. at Immanuel Lutheran Church, 1009 G St, Eagle. Celebrate the Christmas season with an outdoor nativity pageant performed by the youth, including live animals. Join in singing familiar Christmas carols and hymns as the story of Christ's birth is retold. Refreshments will be served afterwards in the fellowship hall of the church. For information call the church office at 402-781-2190. Waverly - Peace Lutheran Church in Waverly will present a living nativity on December 12 at 7:00 and 9:00 p.m., and on December 14 at 7:00 p.m. Contact the church office at 402-786-2345 for more information. Back to top LIFE SUNDAY MATERIALS AVAILABLE (From Reporter Online - www.lcms.org/reporter) LCMS Life Ministries and Lutherans For Life both are offering resources designed to help congregations observe "Life Sunday" on January 18 or an alternate date. Life Ministries, a program area of LCMS World Relief and Human Care (WR-HC), is providing free online resources including sermon helps, a psalmody, and hymn suggestions. The new Life Sunday sermon study, written by Rev. Matthew C. Harrison, executive director of LCMS WR-HC, is based on John 1:43 and Psalm 139:1 from the lectionary. To download the resources, go to www.lcms.org/lifelibrary. New bulletin inserts, a Bible study, sermons, and a children's message are available from Lutherans For Life (LFL) for Life Sunday. "Good News For Life!" is the theme for the 2009 Life Sunday observance, which is designed to coincide with the anniversary of the U.S. Supreme Court's January 22, 1973, decision that legalized abortion. "The Gospel of Jesus Christ is not just Good News. It's Good News for life! It's Good News that brings life, speaks of life, speaks to life, and changes life! And we are called to let it shine!" LFL Executive Director James I. Lamb says in a cover letter with a sample mailing of the new materials that LFL sent in October to congregations, LFL groups, and other "friends of life." LFL is a pan-Lutheran organization based in Nevada, Iowa. LFL's new Life Sunday materials include five sermons: * In "Choice: A Word of Death, A World of Life," based on Rom. 1:18-2:4 and Eph. 1:3-13, Rev. John Juhl talks about "choice." His sermon presents "man's choice," which is "bad news that leads to death," and then "God's choice," which is "Good News that leads to life." Says Juhl: "His choice was not a selfish choice, but a self-giving choice." * In "The Preciousness of Life," from Phil. 2:15-16, Dr. David Veum points to the Word of Life as the agent to bring "true change to our world of darkness." He writes that our culture "has grown numb to the sounds of death" and makes clear that "we all choose death because of our sin." Says Veum: "The Author of Life also chose death. He chose to die for us all." * In "Cosmic War," based on Rev. 12:7-12, Rev. Christopher Esget writes that "there's a cosmic war going on" between the devil and the children of men. Abortion is one battle in the war, he says, but Christ has been victorious over the devil. * In Good News for Life," from Phil. 2:14-16, LFL Executive Director James I. Lamb emphasizes that "the Good News for Life is Good News for your life." * Lamb also is the author of "Chastity: The Choice of Champions," from 1 Cor. 6:12-20. This sermon, for those who would prefer to preach on one of the appointed readings for the second Sunday after Epiphany (Jan. 18), focuses on "how God makes us champions in Jesus Christ, which moves us to honor Him and others through chastity," Lamb says. All five sermons may be downloaded free from the LFL Web site at www.lutheransforlife.org. Other new items for 2009 that may be ordered separately are: * a bulletin insert (7 cents each, item no. 135BI). * a "Just for Kids" bulletin insert (7 cents each, item no. 701BI). * a reproducible Bible study (50 cents each, item no. 135BS). * a reproducible worship service format (15 cents each, item no. 1821). * a children's message (50 cents each, item no. 1828). * a CD ($5, item no. 1818CD) includes all five sermons, plus the worship service, children's message, and Bible study. Those who order Life Sunday resources from LFL also will receive a free copy of the 14-minute "For Life" DVD with study guide. LFL also offers numerous brochures, booklets, a memorial service for victims of abortion, and other resources. For more information, visit the LFL website at www.lutheransforlife.org or call 888-364-LIFE (5433). Back to top NEBRASKA LUTHERANS FOR CONFESSIONAL STUDY The December gathering of the Nebraska Lutherans for Confessional Study will be held on Thursday, December 11, at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 3825 Wildbriar Lane in Lincoln. Refreshments will be in the fellowship hall at 9:30 a.m., followed by Matins at 10 a.m. Presenter for the morning session, starting at about 10:30, will be Rev. Brent Kuhlman, pastor of Trinity, Murdock. His topic will be Luther's "Bondage of the Will," Parts I-III (LW 33:5-160). Following lunch, Rev. Paul Egger, pastor at St. John, Galva, Iowa, will lead the afternoon topic. His topic, starting at about 1 p.m., will be "The Treatise on the Power and Primacy of the Pope." The meeting will conclude by 2:30 p.m. Everyone is invited, both clergy and laity. A free-will offering will be taken to help defray expenses. Back to top SEMINARY TO OFFER CHOIR MEMBER WORKSHOP Concordia Seminary will offer its 17th Annual Schola Cantorum: An Adult Choir Member Workshop, on Saturday, January 24, 2009. The workshop will be held in The Chapel of St. Timothy and St. Titus and the Clara and Spencer Werner Auditorium on the Seminary campus in St. Louis. The Schola Cantorum is open to all choir members, choir directors, and ministers of music. The schedule for the day begins with registration at 8:15 a.m., Morning Prayer at 8:45 a.m., and rehearsal sessions at 9:15 a.m. The day concludes at 3:30 p.m. after the Closing Prayer service, which will include some of the music learned that day. Dr. Kurt von Kampen will serve as this year's clinician. Dr. Kurt E. von Kampen has been conducting choirs at Concordia University, Nebraska, since the fall of 1998, and is the fourth conductor in the 68-year history of the University A Cappella Choir. Prior to accepting the position at Concordia University, von Kampen served as head of the choral program at Concordia University in Ann Arbor, Mich., and as director of music at Lutheran High School Westland and Northwest in the Detroit area. He holds a bachelor of science degree in music education from Concordia University in Seward, Neb.; a master of music degree in choral conducting from Oakland University in Rochester, Mich.; and a Ph.D. in choral music education from the University of Nebraska. "We hold the Schola Cantorum as a way of serving the church at large," commented Rev. Henry Gerike, director of choirs at Concordia Seminary. "By attending, choir members and directors will learn and rehearse new choral music that can be used in their own churches. They will also learn better the art of singing. Each of our clinicians provides great insights into singing the praises of our Lord." This year, a Choral Reading Session will be held Friday, Jan. 23, 2009, from 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. In the session, von Kampen will guide participants through an evening of choral and instrumental song in which he will preview new and current titles of music. The session is open to all, but is especially designed for choir directors. There is no charge to attend but registration is required. The cost for the Schola Cantorum is $60 per individual or $110 per congregation ($70 or $125 after Jan. 16, 2009). For the congregation fee, a choir can send as many members as it desires. Lunch and the choral music are not included in the fee. For more information or registration forms, call 314-505-7486 or e-mail ce at csl.edu. Back to top LUTHERANS FOR LIFE INVITES OTHERS TO JOIN JANUARY MARCH (From LCMSNews -- No. 66, November 19, 2008) The Northern Virginia chapter of Lutherans For Life (LFL) invites other pro-life supporters to join its members, Synod President Gerald B. Kieschnick, and the LCMS Sanctity of Human Life Committee for the Jan. 22 "March for Life" in Washington, D.C., and several other march-day activities. That chapter also is offering to help arrange complementary housing through host families for out-of-towners who join the Lutheran delegation. The annual March for Life observes the anniversary of the Jan. 22, 1973, U.S. Supreme Court's "Roe v. Wade" decision legalizing abortion in the United States. Expected to draw an estimated 100,000 participants, the 2009 march will be the 12th consecutive one in which an LFL delegation is participating, and the first one for Kieschnick. It also will be the first time that the 10-member LCMS Sanctity of Life Committee (which is under the auspices of LCMS World Relief and Human Care [WR-HC]) participates as a group. LFL-sponsored activities Jan. 22 start with an 8 a.m. worship service at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Alexandria, Va., with Kieschnick as the scheduled preacher. A complementary brunch follows there at 9:30, and afterwards marchers will carpool to the National Mall for the pre-march rally at noon. The march itself begins from the Mall at 1:30, and is scheduled to end about 3 p.m. at the U.S. Supreme Court building. Those who join the Lutheran marchers for the rally should look for the Lutherans For Life and Synod banners, starting about 11 a.m., on the right side of the mall (facing the speakers podium), between 7th and 8th Streets. A number of U.S. senators and members of the House of Representatives are expected to speak during the rally, along with national pro-life leaders. The theme for this year's March for Life and rally is "REMEMBER -- the 'LIFE Principles' mean 'Equal Care' with 'No Exception!'" For more information about housing or march-related activities, email Dennis Di Mauro, president of the LFL Northern Virginia chapter and organizer of its march activities, at dennisdimauro at yahoo.com. "The election of a pro-choice president makes the March for Life even more important this year," Di Mauro said. "It will also serve as a powerful reminder of the need to nominate judges to the Supreme Court who are willing to defend the sanctity of life." Kieschnick said that this is the first year that his schedule has made it possible for him to participate in the March for Life. He also said, "I very much look forward to this activity that in a visible way communicates our Synod's strong pro-life position, with which I wholeheartedly and unapologetically agree. Particularly at this point in history, it is imperative for LCMS members and other Christian citizens to affirm and speak in support of the God-given blessing of life, from conception to the grave." Maggie Karner, director of Life and Health Ministries for LCMS WR-HC and chair of the LCMS life committee, said the meeting's agenda will center on discussion of "leadership strategies for upholding the pro-life position under the new federal administration, amidst many statewide changes. Our committee goals for this year will be focused on improving the pro-life witness of the LCMS within our congregations and the larger public square." "We are at a critical juncture in this nation's history for many reasons," Karner said. "Although the new administration and Congress may bring some positive things for our country and may speak for people who have felt underrepresented in the past, we must, as pro-life Christians, be unrelenting in our efforts to continue to speak out for the interests of those who have no voice at all: the unborn and the helpless." Back to top Thank you to all who shared information for this week's Update. If there is information here you know others would appreciate having, please feel free to forward part or all of this message. Invite them to register to receive the E-mail Update in their inbox every week by sending their email address to communications at ndlcms.org. Questions and suggestions may be e-mailed to that address as well. Advent blessings, Nichole Hetz Nebraska District LCMS Director of Communications 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: 46418 bytes Desc: not available Url : http://lists.ndlcms.org/pipermail/distupd/attachments/20081203/8ea7e337/attachment.txt From distupd at lists.ndlcms.org Wed Dec 10 16:45:19 2008 From: distupd at lists.ndlcms.org (District Updates) Date: Wed, 10 Dec 2008 22:45:19 -0000 Subject: [DistUpd] December 10 Message-ID: Update for December 10 A publication of the Nebraska District, a District ABLAZE! Advent greetings in the name of Jesus, our Lord of Love. The lighting of this week's Advent candle reminds us of love - the incomparable and indescribable gift of God's love in His Son, Jesus. As we hustle and bustle through this busy time of preparation, may we take the time to thank God for His love that sent Jesus to save the world, and may we be ABLAZE! to share this Good News with those whose paths we cross. * Prayer Requests * Visit the Holy Land Next Summer * 2009 Nebraska District LLL Convention Information * "Stem Cell Research and the 21st Century Family Living in a Biotech World" Workshop * Good News from Fan into Flame * Visiting Theologian Weekend at Pacific Hills * Confirmation Retreat for Small Churches * Take the Bus to the LWML Convention in Portland * Grace Place Date Changes * Teen LWML Thanks Pastor * Family Life Ministry Workshops Offered by Concordia University * LCMS Families Lose Homes to Wildfires PRAYER REQUESTS Rev. William Engebretsen and family - We lift up in prayer Rev. William Engebretsen of Immanuel, Laurel, and his family at the passing of his mother, Alda. Mrs. Engebretsen was called to the Lord's side on Monday, December 8, and the funeral will be held on Friday, December 12, at Redeemer Lutheran Church, Harrison, Nebraska. Pastor Engebretsen also serves as pastoral counselor for the Nebraska North District LWML and as Wayne Circuit Counselor. Please ask the Lord to grant him and his family an extra measure of His comfort and peace at this time. Family of Rev. Juraine Hornig - Please remember in prayer the family of Rev. Juraine Hornig, who passed away in Rapid City, South Dakota, on Monday, December 8. Pastor Hornig served the congregation of St. Paul's, Ogallala from 1969 to 1985, during which time he also served on the mission field of the Philippines on two occasions. Funeral services will be Friday, December 12, at 10:00 a.m. at Peace Lutheran Church in Rapid City, South Dakota, with a second funeral service on Saturday, December 13, at 10:00 a.m. Central Time at Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church in Huron, South Dakota. We pray for the Lord to send His comfort and peace to the family during this difficult time. Nathan Hultquist - The following prayer request was shared by Pastor Don and Sandy Becker of St. Paul, Minden, on behalf of their grandson: Prayers are requested for Nathan Hultquist, who returns to Children's Hospital in Denver for another scheduled MRI Thursday, December 11, to check the status of Nathan's brain tumors first diagnosed in the spring of 2003, radiated in the summer of 2004, and neither growing nor spreading since then. Nathan's parents, Rob and Jen (Becker) Hultquist of Hearthwell, Nebraska, are also members of St. Paul, Minden. They share the following news: Nathan has an MRI next Thursday in Denver and then he'll do the multi-disciplinary clinic. This time we'll be seeing the neurosurgeon, neuropsychologist, neuro-oncologist, ophthalmologist, endocrinologist, dietician, and the social worker. Could be a long afternoon so we'll pack a big bag of stuff to keep Nathan busy. Please keep him in your prayers. Back to top VISIT THE HOLY LAND NEXT SUMMER Come to the Holy Land! Professor Mark Meehl of Concordia University, Nebraska, will be leading a tour of Israel from Jun 3-16, 2009. The tour will not only visit important biblical and archeological sites, but will introduce you to the current occupants of the land - Israelis, Palestinian Christians, and Palestinian Moslems. A pilgrimage of spiritual, biblical, and historical dimensions, this tour will feature worship in a thirteenth century chapel in Jerusalem, a boat trip across the Sea of Galilee, floating in the waters of the Dead Sea, leisurely walks through the Old City of Jerusalem, discussions with Palestinian Christians living in Bethlehem, and much more. Please consider joining this wonderful tour. The cost for the tour is $4,080, which includes all meals, fees, and tips . . . everything except lunches. For more information, contact Mark Meehl at mark.meehl at cune.edu or 402-643-6652. Back to top 2009 NEBRASKA DISTRICT LLL CONVENTION INFORMATION Lutheran Hour Speaker Rev. Ken Klaus will be featured at the 2009 Nebraska District Lutheran Laymen's League District Convention to take place at the Holiday Inn Convention Center in Sidney on March 27-29. Plans for the convention weekend, which begins Friday evening, include an in-service gathering for backpacks for children in Lebanon through LHM's Global Care Packages Program, entertainment by Zone 1, evening devotions, and a reception for Mick Onnen, new International LLL President from Davenport, and Rev. Ken Klaus. Convention business will be conducted Saturday, followed by a Lutheran Hour Rally at 4:00 p.m. Rev. Ken Klaus will be the speaker and organist will be J. Gordon Christensen of Imperial. A brat feed will follow the rally. Another highlight Saturday evening will be a question-and-answer session featuring Rev. Klaus and Mick Onnen. Participants will have the opportunity to hear information about Lutheran Hour Ministries and the new Men's Network. Sunday morning will close the convention with a worship service and a Bible study led by Rev. Klaus. This convention offers a special opportunity to spend time together with fellow believers, to be encouraged in your faith, and to visit with the Lutheran Hour Speaker. Pastors and laity, both men and women, throughout Nebraska are invited to join together for a great time of Christian fellowship. Mark your calendars for March 27-29, and make plans now to head out to Sidney! Back to top "STEM CELL RESEARCH AND THE 21ST CENTURY FAMILY LIVING IN A BIOTECH WORLD" WORKSHOP Dr. Robert W. Weise, Professor of Practical Theology at Concordia Seminary in St. Louis will conduct a workshop entitled "Stem Cell Research and the 21st Century Family Living in a Biotech World" at Messiah Lutheran Church at 1800 S. 84th Street on Saturday, December 13, from 9:00 a.m. until 12:00 noon and again from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. There is no admission charge to attend the event. Dr. Weise's presentation will center on the current national and international debate over adult and embryonic stem cell research. He will begin with an overview of current biotechnologies such as test-tube babies, embryo adoption, genetic technology, and their connection to stem cell research. His discussion will also include the current influence of Natural Darwinism and the current political and media environment. A scientific explanation of stem cell research will be reviewed in light of Paul's teachings. The use of 500,000 "spare, abandoned" frozen embryonic human beings in embryonic stem cell research will also be discussed. Dr. Weise enjoys group discussions and time for questions and answers. His goal is to assist those who attend to structure their thinking in these issues using the Word of God as his foundation. Dr. Weise will also be delivering the sermon at Messiah's Sunday worship services on December 15 at 8:00 a.m., 10:30 a.m., and 6:00 p.m. Back to top GOOD NEWS FROM FAN INTO FLAME The Lord continues to work in the hearts of His people, and as more Nebraska District congregations share with their members the urgent need to tell people about the saving work of Jesus Christ, hearts are moved to support this work with gifts and prayers. That's what Fan into Flame is: the invitation for each member in every congregation to be involved in supporting Ablaze! mission projects through gifts and prayers. Every gift to this unique mission endeavor goes to support telling people about Jesus in four mission fields as outlined in Acts 1:8 - locally, district-wide, nationally, and internationally. Just this week, the Nebraska District received Fan into Flame pledge agreements and reports from two more congregations: Immanuel, Daykin and St. John, (Kramer) Crete. Both congregations implemented congregational appeals and held their commitment Sundays in November. The Lord moved the hearts of the people at Immanuel, Daykin, and their gifts exceeded the congregational goal by more than 225%! The people of St. John, rural Crete, were also moved to support mission and ministry opportunities and exceeded their goal by more than 120%! Thanks be to God for using the people in these congregations to support outreach ministry projects in their communities, in Nebraska, and around the world. These congregations, together with several generous donors and more than 35 other congregations in the Nebraska District that have or are currently participating in Fan into Flame, contributed to the over $3 million given or committed so far from Nebraska to support sharing the Good News of salvation through Jesus Christ. Just imagine the outreach projects that could be supported to spread the Gospel message if your congregation joined in this effort! Other congregations are still considering how they will participate. Many congregations will discuss this opportunity at their January voters' meetings and make decisions. If your congregation has not discussed Fan into Flame or decided how to participate, make plans now to talk about this at your next meeting. More information, as well as a Congregational Pledge Agreement Form, is available on the District's Fan into Flame website, www.ndlcms.org/news/FiF. Questions may be directed to Andrea Essling at the District Office, Andrea.Essling at lcms.org or 888-643-2961. Back to top VISITING THEOLOGIAN WEEKEND AT PACIFIC HILLS Pacific Hills, Omaha (1110 S 90th Street), offers the fifth annual Visiting Theologian Weekend February 20-22. This year's featured speaker will be Dr. Charles Arand, professor of systematic theology at Concordia Seminary in St. Louis. Dr. Arand's topic will be "Luther's Two Kinds of Righteousness - For the Pulpit and the Pew." The weekend begins on Saturday with registration at 8:45 a.m. The cost for the presentation is $15 per person or $10 for students, payable at the door. Continental breakfast will be served from 9:00 - 9:30 a.m., with Dr. Arand's presentation beginning at 9:30 a.m. Lunch will be served at 11:30 a.m. On Sunday, Dr. Arand will preach at the 8:00 and 10:30 a.m. services, as well as leading the Adult Forum at 9:15 a.m. A noon luncheon will be offered, along with question-and-answer time. Those interested in attending should reserve space by February 18 by emailing revhawk at cox.net. Dr. Arand's most recent book (2008), co-authored with his seminary colleague Dr. Robert Kolb, is "The Genius of Luther's Theology: A Wittenberg Way of Thinking for the Contemporary Church." The book is a refreshing visit to the heart of Luther's theology; namely, the two kinds of righteousness and God's powerful Word. Published by Baker Academic, the book is available at discount at Amazon.com. Reading the book, especially Part One, prior to the weekend would provide excellent preparation for Dr. Arand's presentation. Dr. Arand would be pleased to sign your copy of his book. Back to top CONFIRMATION RETREAT FOR SMALL CHURCHES Camp Luther will be hosting a Confirmation Retreat on February 27-28 for small churches, especially those with 10 or fewer students in their confirmation classes. Rev. Keith Christianson will be the guest speaker, and he will speak on three of the six chief parts. Each pastor and their own students will be able to meet and discuss each topic further after each of his presentations. In addition, camp staff (including some CU students) will provide group games, activities, and campfires. More details and registration materials are available on the camp website at www.campluther.org under the "What's New" link. Back to top TAKE THE BUS TO THE LWML CONVENTION IN PORTLAND Arrangements are currently being made to provide a charter bus to the LWML Convention being held in Portland June 25-28, 2009. Anyone is invited to ride along and enjoy the smooth ride on a Heartland Coach to and from the convention. The bus will leave Monday morning, June 22, picking up passengers at Beatrice, then various locations along I-80 from Lincoln to Ogallala. Passengers will stay overnight at Cheyenne, Wyo.; Ogden, Utah; and LaGrande, Ore.; with the bus arriving in Portland about noon on Thursday, June 25. The convention begins Thursday evening and ends around noon on Sunday, June 28. The bus will leave Portland right after the convention ends and passengers will stay at the same motels they did on the way out. The bus should return to Beatrice Wednesday evening, July 1. More details will be shared with those who register for the trip. To register, see the form printed in the Winter 2008 LWML Quarterly Echo, the LWML South newsletter, or contact Edna Moll for more information at 402-365-4181. The registration deadline for reservations on the bus is January 31. Back to top GRACE PLACE DATE CHANGES Grace Place Retreats has made the following changes to their 2009 schedule. This is a change from the dates previously shared through Nebraska District publications. Congregations and church workers are encouraged to include a Grace Place Retreat in plans for 2009, so please make note of the following changes. July 6-10, 2009 Pastors and spouses in Aspen, Colorado Cost $345 July 13-17, 2009 Educators/Ministers of Music and spouses in Aspen, Colorado Cost $345 For information regarding these or additional retreats, you may check the District website www.ndlcms.org/congregational/workercare/graceplace.html or go to www.graceplaceretreats.org to register. Back to top TEEN LWML THANKS PASTOR The results of the Pastor Appreciation Month Card Challenge by Immanuel Laurel's Teen LWML: WORD! were 24 cards, one cross-shaped cake (shared with the confirmation class), and a package of Twizzlers. WORD! will be mailing at least $13.00, and Immanuel LWML will be matching this amount, to District North LWML Mites. Pastor Engebretsen has been more than pleased with the response and personally thanked the congregation before worship services on November 2nd. What a blessing to see these young women recognizing the important work of their pastor with mission gifts to help share the love of Jesus with others! Back to top FAMILY LIFE MINISTRY WORKSHOPS OFFERED BY CONCORDIA UNIVERSITY Concordia University, Nebraska, is offering a number of Family Life Ministry workshops in January as part of its College of Graduate Studies at its Lincoln Campus. Those who are interested in attending one or more of the following workshops may do so on a day-by-day basis. The cost is $50 per workshop/day, and participants will not earn credit, but will earn continuing education credits. Theo 585 - Family Life Ministry Instructor: Dr. Paul Vasconcellos Monday, Jan. 12 Theological Framework: Families and the Church (Workshop #190) Tuesday, Jan. 13 Defining the Family (Workshop #191) Wednesday, Jan. 14 Changing the Paradigm (Workshop #192) Thursday, Jan. 15 Family Ministry in the Congregation (Workshop #193) Friday, Jan. 16 Congregational Family Ministry (Workshop #194) Psy 555 - Lifespan Development Instructor: Rev. Kevin Kohnke Monday, Jan. 19 Lifespan Development Perspectives (Workshop #130) Tuesday, Jan. 20 Adolescence (Workshop #131) Wednesday, Jan. 21 Middle-Late Childhood (Workshop #132) Thursday, Jan. 22 Early, Middle, and Late Adulthood (Workshop #133) Friday, Jan. 23 End of Life and Faith Maturity (Workshop #134) Theo 483 - Sexuality and the Family Instructor: Rev. Roger Sonnenberg Monday, Jan. 26 The Theology of Sexuality and Reproduction (Workshop #170) Tuesday, Jan. 27 Love and Intimacy (Workshop #171) Wednesday, Jan. 28 Sexual Health (Workshop #172) Thursday, Jan. 29 Sexual Violence (Workshop #173) Friday, Jan. 30 Teaching Human Sexuality (Workshop #174) To register your attendance for a workshop please print out the form located at the following web address, complete, and mail to the address on the form: http://www.cune.edu/resources/docs/academics/family-life-registration.pdf. If you would like more information, please contact Rev. Kevin Kohnke at kevin.kohnke at cune.edu. Back to top LCMS FAMILIES LOSE HOMES TO WILDFIRES (From LCMSNews - No. 72, December 5) Rev. Craig Boehlke and his wife, Jennifer, were watching television at 11:30 p.m. Nov. 15, when a neighbor knocked on their sliding glass door and warned them that wildfires were approaching their mobile home community in Sylmar, Calif. The couple switched to the local news channel and watched the fire's progression. At 2:30 a.m., they received a mandatory evacuation order. "We had about 15 minutes to get photo albums, pictures off the wall, and some changes of clothing into our car," said Boehlke, pastor of Our Savior's First Lutheran Church, Granada Hills, Calif. "That was all." Their home was one of 425 mobile homes that were reduced to ashes by the wildfires that swept through the San Fernando Valley, just north of Los Angeles. They and five other LCMS families lost their houses in the community including Rev. Charles Collier, pastor of Faith Lutheran Church in Tujunga, Calif., who lost two homes: his and a rental property that was for sale. Collier, who had knee replacement surgery two weeks earlier, was asleep when the evacuation order was received. "We had 10 minutes to get out: me, three dogs, and my caretaker." Even with his knee still painful, he managed to drive his van away from the fire. "We talk about helping people out in these kinds of circumstances," he said, "but now I approach it differently having been on the other side. The Pacific Southwest District people just have been so generous and loving on top of all this. And I will be returning money to the disaster fund as I'm able." The fund he mentions was started last year during the southern California fires, said Jerry Reichman, executive team leader and disaster response coordinator for the Pacific Southwest District. Donations to it have been made by LCMS Lutherans all over the country. "We gave about $100,000 to those affected in the San Diego fires," Reichman said, "and we have given $24,000 to the four churches whose pastors and members were affected by these latest fires." The Boehlkes, accompanied by Rev. Glenn F. Merritt, director of Disaster Response, and Rev. Carlos Hernandez, director of Districts and Congregations with LCMS World Relief and Human Care, returned to their home several days later, but all they found were pieces of their nativity scene which had been in a storage area. Boehlke says he can see God in action even in the midst of the destruction. "People have been wonderful in responding to this crisis," Boehlke said. "Our Pacific Southwest District office has helped, as has LCMS World Relief. Some non-LCMS churches have even taken up door offerings for us. To see the body of Christ responding like this is wonderful." During their two-day trip to California, Merritt and Hernandez met with Rev. James Page and Principal Peggy Courtney of First Lutheran Church and School in San Fernando. First Lutheran opened its doors to people who had evacuated their homes in the middle of the night and served as a shelter for two days. LCMS WR-HC gave a $5,000 emergency disaster relief grant to the school to help two of its non-member families whose homes were destroyed. "These are folks who really need help," Page told the LCMS WR-HC staff. "Even before the economic downturn, people here were living paycheck to paycheck." First Lutheran School, with grades K-12, serves a large Latino population and a growing Korean population. LCMS WR-HC gave another $5,000 grant to Hephatha Lutheran Church and School, Anaheim, Calif., to help two non-member families who lost everything in the fire. As of Dec. 3, the Synod's disaster response arm has given $36,000 in emergency relief grants to the Pacific Southwest District and its congregations. "These grants will not cover all the many needs of these households," said Hernandez, "which include the up-front costs of transitional housing, clothing, furnishings, food, etc., but it will help them begin the long road back to recovery, which includes knowing, experiencing, and receiving Christian care and compassion as they move through the trauma and crisis of suddenly being homeless." Donations may be sent to LCMS World Relief and Human Care, P.O. Box 66861, St. Louis, MO 63166-9810. Or, call the credit-card gift line at 888-930-4438. To give online, visit http://www.lcms.org/ca/worldrelief/menus/news (click "Give Now"). Back to top Advent blessings, Nichole Hetz Nebraska District LCMS Director of Communications 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: 50209 bytes Desc: not available Url : http://lists.ndlcms.org/pipermail/distupd/attachments/20081210/03028ef4/attachment.txt From distupd at lists.ndlcms.org Thu Dec 11 13:54:14 2008 From: distupd at lists.ndlcms.org (District Updates) Date: Thu, 11 Dec 2008 19:54:14 -0000 Subject: [DistUpd] FIREworks Newsletter Message-ID: Greetings in Christ! Attached is the current issue of FIREworks, a newsletter designed to educate and update the leaders of the Nebraska District on the Fan into Flame campaign in Nebraska. This newsletter is sent every other week to share current information and stories about the things God is doing through Ablaze! and Fan into Flame. Pastors and church office staff are encouraged to print and post this newsletter, reproduce this page for their congregational newsletter, or forward it to their electronic mailing list. Issues of this newsletter are also available by following the Fan into Flame link on the District website, www.ndlcms.org. You are receiving this newsletter because you receive the weekly Email Update e-newsletter. If you wish to unsubscribe from this list, you may email your request to nicholeh at ndlcms.org. Removing yourself from this list will also take you off the list to receive the weekly Email Update, the Mission Fields Nebraska newsletter, and the Sudan Mission newsletter. I appreciate the opportunity to share with you news of how God is using the congregations and individuals of the Nebraska District through this exciting mission effort. Feel free to contact me with any questions you might have on Ablaze! or Fan into Flame. Nichole Hetz Nebraska District LCMS Director of Communications 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: 6026 bytes Desc: not available Url : http://lists.ndlcms.org/pipermail/distupd/attachments/20081211/b323d9c8/attachment.txt -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: 12-11.pdf Type: application/pdf Size: 49303 bytes Desc: 12-11.pdf Url : http://lists.ndlcms.org/pipermail/distupd/attachments/20081211/b323d9c8/12-11-0001.pdf From distupd at lists.ndlcms.org Wed Dec 17 16:52:41 2008 From: distupd at lists.ndlcms.org (District Updates) Date: Wed, 17 Dec 2008 22:52:41 -0000 Subject: [DistUpd] December 17 Message-ID: Update for December 17 A publication of the Nebraska District, a District ABLAZE! Advent greetings in the name of our newborn Savior, Jesus. Traditionally, the third of the Advent candles is lit on Gaudate Sunday and helps to focus us on rejoicing. It may seem natural to rejoice when we think about the real meaning of Christmas and the wonderful gift of a Savior God sent, but how many people rush through December without taking the time to remember the real reason for the celebration they are frantically preparing for. The "rejoice" candle helps us to refocus on our celebration of Jesus' birth and the joy that will be ours for eternity at His second coming. Many people may grumble in the next week and not find anything to rejoice about, ourselves included. What a blessing that we have the joy of Christmas and of Easter to share with these people. May our rejoicing as we go about last minute tasks be evident to those around us, and may we be able to give witness to the joy we have when someone asks us about it. The Nebraska District Board of Directors and Staff wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas and a blessed New Year. * Prayer Requests * District Office Holiday Hours * No Email Update Next Two Weeks * Fan into Flame Continues Across Nebraska * Concordia Plan Services "Reward" to Complete Assessment Ends December 31 * Special Christmas Activities Available on "JCPlayZone" * Lutheran Hour to Once Again Have Rose Parade Presence * Concordia Chamber Choir to Perform in North Platte * Pre-Lent Preaching Seminar * Concordia University Launches New Speaker Series, "Looking Beyond" * Concordia Publishing House Launches Website for The Lutheran Study Bible * LCMS Servant Events Offers Record Number of Events for 2009 * Share God's Word with Spanish-Speaking Neighbors PRAYER REQUESTS Pastor B.J. and Jessica Fouts - We give thanks to God for the gift of new life He has granted to Pastor B.J. and Jessica Fouts of Trinity, Hebron, at the birth of their daughter, Abigail. We rejoice with them at this addition to their family, and we look forward to welcoming Abigail into the body of Christ through her baptism. The Family of Rev. Mark Meschke - Please remember in prayer the family of Rev. Mark Meschke, 61, of Collinsville, Ill., who died on Friday, December 12. Rev. Meschke was preceded in death by his father, Bernhardt Meschke. Rev. Bernhardt Meschke served Mount Olive Lutheran Church of Norfolk, Immanuel Lutheran Church of Columbus, and Saint Peter Lutheran Church of Hampton. Pastor Bernhardt Meschke also served as Nebraska District Secretary. Rev. Gene and Linda Gierke and Family - We lift up in prayer Rev. Gene and Linda Gierke and their family at the passing of Linda's mother on Saturday, December 13. We ask the Lord to grant this family His comfort and peace at this time as they prepare for a Christmas without their loved one, while celebrating the gift of eternal life she received through Jesus Christ. Nathan Hultquist - Pastor Don Becker of St. Paul, Minden, shared this follow-up prayer request after his grandson's visit to the hospital last week: Prayers of praise and thanksgiving to God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Nathan's latest MRI showed all things stable. The team of specialists working with Nathan was pleased with his progress. Nathan has now been promoted to an annual MRI. The miracle of his radiation five years ago continues. We are all especially glad and grateful, and we continue to keep in our prayers all for whom cancer and other life-threatening diseases are a daily concern and sometimes a heavy burden. Back to top DISTRICT OFFICE HOLIDAY HOURS The District Office will be closed next Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, December 24, 25, and 26, for Christmas. The office will also be closed the following Wednesday and Thursday, December 31 and January 1, for New Year's Eve and New Year's Day. Regular office hours of 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. will be observed Monday and Tuesday, December 29-30, and normal office hours resume on Friday, January 2, at 8:00 a.m. Many frequently asked questions and other information is available on the District website anytime at www.ndlcms.org. Back to top NO EMAIL UPDATE NEXT TWO WEEKS Because the District Office will be closed the next two Wednesdays, this will be the last regular Email Update of the year. Urgent requests and important information will be shared throughout the holidays should the need arise. The next regular Update is scheduled to be sent on Wednesday, January 7. Anyone having information to be shared through the Update is encouraged to send it to communications at ndlcms.org by January 5 for inclusion in the January 7 Update. Back to top FAN INTO FLAME CONTINUES ACROSS NEBRASKA The Lord continues to work in the hearts of His people, and as more Nebraska District congregations share with their members the urgent need to tell people about the saving work of Jesus Christ, hearts are moved to support this work with gifts and prayers. That's what Fan into Flame is: the invitation for each member in every congregation to be involved in supporting Ablaze! mission projects through gifts and prayers. Every gift to this historic mission endeavor goes to support telling people about Jesus in four mission fields as outlined in Acts 1:8 - locally, district-wide, nationally, and internationally. Recently, the Nebraska District received Fan into Flame appeal reports from two more congregations: Christ, Nebraska City and St. Paul, Weeping Water. Both congregations implemented congregational appeals and submitted their reports. The Lord moved the hearts of the people at Christ, Nebraska City, and their pledges and gifts showed tremendous generosity and a lively mission spirit by surpassing the goal set by the congregation by nearly 140%. The people of St. Paul, Weeping Water, were also moved to support mission and ministry opportunities in a wonderful and generous way. Thanks be to God for how He is using the people in these congregations to support outreach ministry projects in their communities, in Nebraska, and around the world. These congregations, together with several generous donors and more than 40 congregations in the Nebraska District that have participated in Fan into Flame, contributed to the over $3 million given or committed so far from Nebraska to support sharing the Good News of salvation through Jesus Christ. Just imagine the outreach projects that could be supported to spread the Gospel message if your congregation joined in this effort! Other congregations are still considering how they will participate. Many congregations will discuss this opportunity at their January voters' meetings and make decisions. If your congregation has not discussed Fan into Flame or decided how to participate, make plans now to talk about this at your next meeting. More information, as well as a Congregational Pledge Agreement Form, is available on the District's Fan into Flame website, www.ndlcms.org/news/FiF. Fan into Flame will continue in the congregations of the Nebraska District into 2009. Congregations that have not yet participated are invited and encouraged to begin talking and thinking about how they can be involved. Andrea Essling, campaign consultant, will be moving to Michigan, where she will begin to work with the Michigan and Indiana Districts on their campaigns. However, she will still be available to Nebraska congregations as a resource as they discuss Fan into Flame or plan and implement an appeal. Questions may be directed to Andrea Essling at Andrea.Essling at lcms.org or 616-389-7747. Resource questions may be directed to the District Office at 888-643-2961or visit the District website at www.ndlcms.org/news/FiF. Back to top CONCORDIA PLAN SERVICES "REWARD" TO COMPLETE ASSESSMENT ENDS DECEMBER 31 Concordia Plan Services (CPS) is rewarding Concordia Health Plan (CHP) members who complete the online CareAllies Health Assessment before December 31 with a $75 "Be Well ... Serve Well" Rewards Visa Debit Card. If you've been meaning to do it, NOW is the time. Take a few minutes and let CareAllies help you assess your health habits and get "rewarded"! This new incentive is part of "a continuing effort to encourage healthier behavior among ... members and in support of LCMS ministries," said Steve Gruenwald, CPS's health and wellness educator. The offer is available to all members currently enrolled in the Concordia Health Plan (CHP), including Medicare members. Although covered dependents may take the assessment, they are not eligible for the card. CHP members who complete the online assessment can expect to receive the card within three to four weeks. It can be used anywhere Visa debit cards are accepted. "We want our church workers to enjoy the benefits of good health," Gruenwald said. "We're happy to reward people for taking the initiative to understand their health, because that's the first step in maintaining it. Research shows incentives lead people to action and action leads people to better health." To take the CareAllies Health Assessment, visit www.concordiaplans.org and look for the "Be Well ... Serve Well Health Assessment" link at the bottom left side of the screen. Information about the Reward Card and other CareAllies programs can be found in the "Health and Wellness" section of the website. To read the complete article, as well as many others, visit the Reporter Online at http://www.lcms.org/pages/rpage.asp?NavID=3641&yr=2008&mt=9 and click on the "CPS Offers $75 . . ." article. This portion of the article is reprinted with permission from the September 2008 Reporter, the official newspaper of The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod." Back to top SPECIAL CHRISTMAS ACTIVITIES AVAILABLE ON "JCPLAYZONE" Pastors and church office staff, please consider including some or all of the following information in your bulletins during Christmas break. When children are looking for something to entertain them during Christmas break, snow days, or sick days, point them to www.JCPlayZone.com, LHM's interactive children's website. Kids can keep busy reading Bible stories, playing Christmas-themed games, sending e-cards, working on printable coloring pages, reading daily devotions, listening to Christian music, and learning new crafts and recipes (this part requires adult supervision). Games include a word search, matching game, a game where kids can catch bouncing Christmas ornaments, and much more. Many of the activities change based on the season, so kids stay engaged, no matter what time of year it is. Most importantly, JCPlayZone provides a safe, Christian environment for children to play on the Internet. Back to top LUTHERAN HOUR TO ONCE AGAIN HAVE ROSE PARADE PRESENCE The theme of the 120th Tournament of Roses Parade on January 1, 2009, in Pasadena, California, is "Hats Off to Entertainment." The Lutheran Hour float includes a pipe organ and a choir with its theme - Hallelujah! Mick Onnen, International President, will be one of the float riders this year. The Int'l LLL's Southern California District sponsors The Lutheran Hour float. This is the 59th year of carrying on a mission to provide a Gospel witness to viewers everywhere. The Tournament of Roses Parade is watched live on television by approximately 40 million Americans and by millions more people in 150 countries. Watch for The Lutheran Hour float on ABC and NBC as they broadcast the Rose Parade, but the LHM float may or may not be shown on those networks' stations because of commercials. Cable TV's Home and Garden Television (HGTV) may provide the best viewing option. It carries the entire parade without interruption nationwide. The Lutheran Hour float is scheduled as the 37th entry in the 90-unit parade. It will appear right after the Salvation Army band and directly in front of the parade's grand marshal. It is the only float in the Rose Parade with a Gospel message. Check your local listings for channels and times. Pastors and church office staff, please consider including the above paragraph or paragraphs in your bulletins the next two Sundays. Thank you. Back to top CONCORDIA CHAMBER CHOIR TO PERFORM IN NORTH PLATTE The Concordia University, Nebraska Chamber Choir will perform in several cities in Colorado plus a stop in Nebraska and a stop in Wyoming during its tour from Feb. 4-8. They will be performing one of their concerts at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church (1400 East E Street), North Platte, at 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, February 4. The choir's repertoire covers a wide range of classical and contemporary chamber choral works. On this tour they will premier David von Kampen's Matins, an innovative, five-movement choral work based on the historic liturgy for the early morning prayer service written for the choir. "The Chamber Choir is a select group of 16 singers including both music majors and non-majors," said Dr. Kurt von Kampen, associate professor of music and director of the choir. "These students have great vocal flexibility as they perform chamber choral works from all historical periods as well as vocal jazz selections. This diversity serves them in their future careers as educators and performers." The choir's members are selected from the 70-member University A Cappella Choir, also conducted by von Kampen. Back to top PRE-LENT PREACHING SEMINAR Good Shepherd, Lincoln, is pleased to announce that a Pre-Lent Preaching Seminar will be offered on Friday, January 30, 2009. The Rev. Brent Kuhlman will be the guest presenter with the title of his presentation, '"Dead, Buried, and Risen in Christ; preaching the 4th Chief Part." This seminar will offer sermons, preaching resources, and worship resources (LSB) for the Wednesdays in Lent, as well as Holy Week and Easter, based on the 4th Chief Part of Luther's Small Catechism. Cost is $12 and includes lunch and all preaching and worship materials. Please register by calling the church office at 402-423-7639 or by sending a note to: Rev. Clint Poppe at pastorpoppe at goodshepherdlincoln.org. Motel information is available by request. Back to top CONCORDIA UNIVERSITY LAUNCHES NEW SPEAKER SERIES, "LOOKING BEYOND" The faculty of Concordia University, Nebraska is launching a speaker series titled "Looking Beyond." The first event brings veteran reporter Al Kuettner to campus on Monday, January 19, Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Kuettner was the United Press International's national correspondent for the civil rights movement and has published a memoir, March to a Promised Land: The Civil Rights Files of a White Reporter 1952-1968. Kuettner will present "Martin Luther King and Civil Rights: An Eyewitness Report" at 10 a.m. in Weller Hall auditorium on Concordia's campus, and time will be provided for audience questions. The public is welcome to the free event. During his coverage of the civil rights movement, Kuettner interviewed key civil rights players, at times braving personal danger in the process. Among his interviewees were such figures as Martin Luther King Jr., the NAACP's Roy Wilkins, Alabama Governor George Wallace, and hundreds of others. "Al is an amazing man who has stayed sharp and active into his mid-90s," said Concordia Assistant Professor Tobin Beck. Beck is the former UPI executive editor and edited Kuettner's memoirs. "He devoted the main part of his extensive career to straightforward news coverage of all sides of the civil rights era, and he has an encyclopedic knowledge of the people and events of that time. A few years ago he went back through the South to talk to people, to gauge how race relations in the South have changed. That's what makes him unique - his insights into the history and impact of a movement that profoundly changed America." Kuettner will also sign books at a dessert fundraiser on Monday evening. The event will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. in the John W. Cattle Sr. Conference Room in the Janzow Center on Concordia's campus. Funds raised will go to support scholarships at Concordia College Selma, a historically black school and fellow member of the Concordia University System of The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod. For more information, including ticket reservations, call 800-535-5494, ext. 7304. "The motivation for a speaker series has come from both the students and the faculty," said Kathy Miller, associate professor of sociology and member of the organizing committee. "Our first priority is students and enhancing their educational experience. We plan on tying the speakers into course content and maximizing the students' exposure." Two additional speakers have been scheduled for the spring semester. Eliot Brenner, director of public affairs for the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, will cover "Nuclear Power: A View from Inside the Beltway" on Monday, February 23, at Concordia's Lincoln campus, and he will present "A Washington View of Nuclear Power" on Tuesday, February 24, on Concordia's Seward campus. Dr. Edward Martin, professor of philosophy and theology at Liberty University, Lynchburg, Va., will present the 2009 Martin and Regina Maehr Lecture: "The Problem of Evil" on Friday, March 27, at Concordia's Seward campus. Back to top CONCORDIA PUBLISHING HOUSE LAUNCHES WEBSITE FOR THE LUTHERAN STUDY BIBLE Concordia Publishing House (CPH) announces the launch of its promotional website for The Lutheran Study Bible at www.cph.org/lutheranbible. Pre-order sales begin online in March 2009. The product is the first study Bible in English to be developed from the ground-up with notes that are "exclusively and distinctively Lutheran." It contains more than 26,500 study notes, prepared by Lutheran theologians, scholars, and pastors representing more than 20 Lutheran church bodies. The Lutheran Study Bible uses the English Standard Version(r) translation, one of the fastest-growing translations worldwide and considered one of the most precise English translations available. At the website, CPH describes its offering into the market as "truly unique," and "not to be confused" with the recent ESV Study Bible from Crossways, or the Lutheran Study Bible from Augsburg Fortress (NRSV). "We are excited to offer all English-speaking Christians a study Bible that offers such a comforting and powerful Christ-centered understanding of the Scriptures," shares Rev. Paul T. McCain, Publisher and Executive Director of Editorial for CPH. The Lutheran Study Bible invites Lutheran Christians to, "engage in a conversation that has been unfolding within and around God's Word throughout the centuries," according to the website. Gretchen Jameson, CPH's corporate communications manager, shares "The Lutheran Study Bible combines a personal, devotional, and practical-application approach to Bible reading, alongside solid, scholarly study notes. There is, quite simply, nothing else like it available today." Information including the features of The Lutheran Study Bible, the product Foreword, and FAQs is located online at www.cph.org/lutheranbible. Back to top LCMS SERVANT EVENTS OFFERS RECORD NUMBER OF EVENTS FOR 2009 Over 100 LCMS servant events are planned for 2009! All kinds of events are available, from construction, human care, and outreach events to crisis, multicultural, and environmental events. There are also events especially for families, and for the first time in 2009, there will be an event just for young adults. LCMS servant events give young people across the country the experience of learning that serving others can make a difference because of Jesus Christ. Since 1981, LCMS youth and adults have participated in more than 1,000 servant events and have made a difference in the lives of thousands of others by contributing to the development of resources and facilities of Synodical camps, congregations, and other service agencies. Camp Luther in Schuyler, NE, will host "His Kids Camps A, B, and C" throughout the summer. Visit LCMS Servant Events online at www.lcms.org/youth for a complete listing of events and to search by type, date, and region of the country. For a free DVD about LCMS Servant Events, contact the LCMS Youth Ministry Office at youth.ministry at lcms.org or 800-248-1930, ext. 1155. Back to top SHARE GOD'S WORD WITH SPANISH-SPEAKING NEIGHBORS Planning a mission trip to a Spanish-speaking area? Is it within blocks of your church? Whether near or far, many congregations are on a mission to share God's Word with the people in their communities and throughout the world. The inspirational devotions in the Spanish Portals of Prayer magazine open doors of communication with your neighborhood. At your request, Concordia Publishing House is pleased to offer Portals to churches and ministries everywhere. Bring Portals of Prayer while witnessing; it shares God's Word long after you've left. Written in Spanish, not translated, each devotion encourages readers through readings, Scripture references, and short prayers. For generations, this popular devotional has brought personal growth and inspiration to English-speaking Christians. Take time to encourage other believers with the message of faith found in Portals of Prayer. To order, visit www.cph.org or call 1-800-325-3040. Back to top Christmas blessings and a happy New Year! Nichole Hetz Nebraska District LCMS Director of Communications 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: 51780 bytes Desc: not available Url : http://lists.ndlcms.org/pipermail/distupd/attachments/20081217/633133aa/attachment.txt From distupd at lists.ndlcms.org Wed Dec 3 15:03:04 2008 From: distupd at lists.ndlcms.org (District Updates) Date: Wed, 03 Dec 2008 21:03:04 -0000 Subject: [DistUpd] December 3 Message-ID: Update for December 3 A publication of the Nebraska District, a District ABLAZE! Advent greetings in the name our Savior, for whom we wait in hopeful anticipation. According to some traditions, the first candle on the Advent wreath symbolizes hope. The prophets and others in the Old Testament hoped on the promises God gave them regarding the Savior. We join with them in hopeful anticipation of the coming of the Savior, both in the celebration of His birth at Christmas and at His second coming. May the Lord grant each of us the eyes to see the opportunities to share the hope we have in Jesus Christ with those around us this week. * Prayer Requests * Guitar Found at Youth Gathering * Youth Gathering Band Footage Available Online * Birthday Celebration for Rev. Dr. Ted Janzow * Good News from Fan into Flame * Living Nativities in Nebraska * Life Sunday Materials Available * Nebraska Lutherans for Confessional Study * Seminary to Offer Choir Member Workshop * Lutherans For Life Invites Others to Join January March PRAYER REQUESTS Bishop Andrew Elisa - Please continue to lift up in prayer Rev. Andrew Elisa, Bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Sudan. Bishop Elisa underwent brain surgery this past Sunday, November 30, and remains hospitalized in Jordan. Please pray for him and his wife, Linda, as they are far from their home and family at this very stressful time. We ask the Great Physician to grant healing, comfort, and strength at this time. We also lift up the Lutheran Church in Sudan, as they continue in ministry without the leadership of Bishop Elisa at this time. We also ask the Lord to provide the financial resources needed for these medical treatments. The hospitalization, treatments, and travel are very expensive (over $12,000 so far), and an appeal has come forward from LCMS World Mission and Lutheran Heritage Foundation to assist Bishop Elisa and his family in this time of need. Since the Nebraska District in its 2006 Convention voted to partner with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Sudan and is currently involved in various Lutheran Christian mission projects in Sudan, this appeal for prayer and gifts to help the Elisa family is coming to you. You may send monetary gifts to: Lutheran Heritage Foundation World Mission Center Attention: Jeff Rahn 51474 Romeo Plank Macomb, MI 48042 Please note "Andrew Elisa Medical Expenses" on the memo line of your check. OR You may go to www.lhfmissions.org and click on the article about Bishop Elisa to give a gift using a credit card. Back to top GUITAR FOUND AT YOUTH GATHERING Pastors and youth leaders - if your youth group attended the District Youth Gathering in Omaha in November and one of your students took a guitar along but came home without one, we might have it! To claim the guitar, contact Don Weber at the District Office at 888-643-2961 or donw at ndlcms.org. Back to top YOUTH GATHERING BAND FOOTAGE AVAILABLE ONLINE The Youth Gathering band, 211 Band, has posted video footage from the District Youth Gathering on its website. Visit http://www.211band.com/Index.asp?PageID=10638 to view the videos. Pictures of the band from the weekend are also available on the picture page at http://www.211band.com/Index.asp?PageID=10699. Back to top BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION FOR REV. DR. TED JANZOW Everyone is invited to celebrate Concordia University, Nebraska President Emeritus W. Theophil "Ted" Janzow's 90th birthday. An open house will be held on December 18 from 10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. in the lobby of Janzow Campus Center at Concordia University, Seward. Rev. Dr. Janzow served as Concordia's 6th president from 1963-1977. Prior to his presidency, he was a member of the faculty and taught sociology. Following his presidency at Concordia, he became the first president of Concordia Seminary, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. He has authored a number of books including his own autobiography, Servant for Jesus' Sake, and The Smoke of the Spirit, a collection of presidential columns printed in the Broadcaster in the 1960's and 70's. He currently lives in Lincoln. His four children, Fred, Frank, Kathy, and Dan, plan to attend the open house as well. Back to top GOOD NEWS FROM FAN INTO FLAME The Lord continues to work in the hearts of His people, and as more Nebraska District congregations share with their members the urgent need to tell people about the saving work of Jesus Christ, hearts are moved to support this work with gifts and prayers. That's what Fan into Flame is: the invitation for each member in every congregation to be involved in supporting Ablaze! mission projects through gifts and prayers. Every gift to this unique mission endeavor goes to support telling people about Jesus in four mission fields as outlined in Acts 1:8 - locally, district-wide, nationally, and internationally. Just this week, the Nebraska District received Fan into Flame pledge agreements and reports from two more congregations: Immanuel, Butte and Grace, Wayne. Immanuel made a pledge of new money from their budget over and above their current ministry giving. The congregation of Grace implemented a congregational appeal based on the cottage visit model and held their commitment Sunday in November. The first report received indicated congregational pledges and gifts of nearly $55,000! These congregations, together with several generous donors and 30 other congregations in the Nebraska District that have or are currently participating in Fan into Flame, contributed to the over $2.9 million given or pledged so far from Nebraska to support sharing the Good News of salvation through Jesus Christ. Just imagine the outreach projects that could be supported to spread the Gospel message if your congregation joined in this effort! Other congregations are still considering how they will participate. Many congregations will discuss this opportunity at their January voters' meetings and make decisions. If your congregation has not discussed Fan into Flame or decided how to participate, make plans now to talk about this at your next meeting. More information, as well as a Congregational Pledge Agreement Form, is available on the District's Fan into Flame website, www.ndlcms.org/news/FiF. Questions may be directed to Andrea Essling at the District Office, Andrea.Essling at lcms.org or 888-643-2961. Back to top LIVING NATIVITIES IN NEBRASKA Pastors and church office staff, please consider sharing these opportunities in your upcoming bulletins. Thank you. Eagle - A living nativity will be held on Sunday, December 14, starting at 6:30 p.m. at Immanuel Lutheran Church, 1009 G St, Eagle. Celebrate the Christmas season with an outdoor nativity pageant performed by the youth, including live animals. Join in singing familiar Christmas carols and hymns as the story of Christ's birth is retold. Refreshments will be served afterwards in the fellowship hall of the church. For information call the church office at 402-781-2190. Waverly - Peace Lutheran Church in Waverly will present a living nativity on December 12 at 7:00 and 9:00 p.m., and on December 14 at 7:00 p.m. Contact the church office at 402-786-2345 for more information. Back to top LIFE SUNDAY MATERIALS AVAILABLE (From Reporter Online - www.lcms.org/reporter) LCMS Life Ministries and Lutherans For Life both are offering resources designed to help congregations observe "Life Sunday" on January 18 or an alternate date. Life Ministries, a program area of LCMS World Relief and Human Care (WR-HC), is providing free online resources including sermon helps, a psalmody, and hymn suggestions. The new Life Sunday sermon study, written by Rev. Matthew C. Harrison, executive director of LCMS WR-HC, is based on John 1:43 and Psalm 139:1 from the lectionary. To download the resources, go to www.lcms.org/lifelibrary. New bulletin inserts, a Bible study, sermons, and a children's message are available from Lutherans For Life (LFL) for Life Sunday. "Good News For Life!" is the theme for the 2009 Life Sunday observance, which is designed to coincide with the anniversary of the U.S. Supreme Court's January 22, 1973, decision that legalized abortion. "The Gospel of Jesus Christ is not just Good News. It's Good News for life! It's Good News that brings life, speaks of life, speaks to life, and changes life! And we are called to let it shine!" LFL Executive Director James I. Lamb says in a cover letter with a sample mailing of the new materials that LFL sent in October to congregations, LFL groups, and other "friends of life." LFL is a pan-Lutheran organization based in Nevada, Iowa. LFL's new Life Sunday materials include five sermons: * In "Choice: A Word of Death, A World of Life," based on Rom. 1:18-2:4 and Eph. 1:3-13, Rev. John Juhl talks about "choice." His sermon presents "man's choice," which is "bad news that leads to death," and then "God's choice," which is "Good News that leads to life." Says Juhl: "His choice was not a selfish choice, but a self-giving choice." * In "The Preciousness of Life," from Phil. 2:15-16, Dr. David Veum points to the Word of Life as the agent to bring "true change to our world of darkness." He writes that our culture "has grown numb to the sounds of death" and makes clear that "we all choose death because of our sin." Says Veum: "The Author of Life also chose death. He chose to die for us all." * In "Cosmic War," based on Rev. 12:7-12, Rev. Christopher Esget writes that "there's a cosmic war going on" between the devil and the children of men. Abortion is one battle in the war, he says, but Christ has been victorious over the devil. * In Good News for Life," from Phil. 2:14-16, LFL Executive Director James I. Lamb emphasizes that "the Good News for Life is Good News for your life." * Lamb also is the author of "Chastity: The Choice of Champions," from 1 Cor. 6:12-20. This sermon, for those who would prefer to preach on one of the appointed readings for the second Sunday after Epiphany (Jan. 18), focuses on "how God makes us champions in Jesus Christ, which moves us to honor Him and others through chastity," Lamb says. All five sermons may be downloaded free from the LFL Web site at www.lutheransforlife.org. Other new items for 2009 that may be ordered separately are: * a bulletin insert (7 cents each, item no. 135BI). * a "Just for Kids" bulletin insert (7 cents each, item no. 701BI). * a reproducible Bible study (50 cents each, item no. 135BS). * a reproducible worship service format (15 cents each, item no. 1821). * a children's message (50 cents each, item no. 1828). * a CD ($5, item no. 1818CD) includes all five sermons, plus the worship service, children's message, and Bible study. Those who order Life Sunday resources from LFL also will receive a free copy of the 14-minute "For Life" DVD with study guide. LFL also offers numerous brochures, booklets, a memorial service for victims of abortion, and other resources. For more information, visit the LFL website at www.lutheransforlife.org or call 888-364-LIFE (5433). Back to top NEBRASKA LUTHERANS FOR CONFESSIONAL STUDY The December gathering of the Nebraska Lutherans for Confessional Study will be held on Thursday, December 11, at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 3825 Wildbriar Lane in Lincoln. Refreshments will be in the fellowship hall at 9:30 a.m., followed by Matins at 10 a.m. Presenter for the morning session, starting at about 10:30, will be Rev. Brent Kuhlman, pastor of Trinity, Murdock. His topic will be Luther's "Bondage of the Will," Parts I-III (LW 33:5-160). Following lunch, Rev. Paul Egger, pastor at St. John, Galva, Iowa, will lead the afternoon topic. His topic, starting at about 1 p.m., will be "The Treatise on the Power and Primacy of the Pope." The meeting will conclude by 2:30 p.m. Everyone is invited, both clergy and laity. A free-will offering will be taken to help defray expenses. Back to top SEMINARY TO OFFER CHOIR MEMBER WORKSHOP Concordia Seminary will offer its 17th Annual Schola Cantorum: An Adult Choir Member Workshop, on Saturday, January 24, 2009. The workshop will be held in The Chapel of St. Timothy and St. Titus and the Clara and Spencer Werner Auditorium on the Seminary campus in St. Louis. The Schola Cantorum is open to all choir members, choir directors, and ministers of music. The schedule for the day begins with registration at 8:15 a.m., Morning Prayer at 8:45 a.m., and rehearsal sessions at 9:15 a.m. The day concludes at 3:30 p.m. after the Closing Prayer service, which will include some of the music learned that day. Dr. Kurt von Kampen will serve as this year's clinician. Dr. Kurt E. von Kampen has been conducting choirs at Concordia University, Nebraska, since the fall of 1998, and is the fourth conductor in the 68-year history of the University A Cappella Choir. Prior to accepting the position at Concordia University, von Kampen served as head of the choral program at Concordia University in Ann Arbor, Mich., and as director of music at Lutheran High School Westland and Northwest in the Detroit area. He holds a bachelor of science degree in music education from Concordia University in Seward, Neb.; a master of music degree in choral conducting from Oakland University in Rochester, Mich.; and a Ph.D. in choral music education from the University of Nebraska. "We hold the Schola Cantorum as a way of serving the church at large," commented Rev. Henry Gerike, director of choirs at Concordia Seminary. "By attending, choir members and directors will learn and rehearse new choral music that can be used in their own churches. They will also learn better the art of singing. Each of our clinicians provides great insights into singing the praises of our Lord." This year, a Choral Reading Session will be held Friday, Jan. 23, 2009, from 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. In the session, von Kampen will guide participants through an evening of choral and instrumental song in which he will preview new and current titles of music. The session is open to all, but is especially designed for choir directors. There is no charge to attend but registration is required. The cost for the Schola Cantorum is $60 per individual or $110 per congregation ($70 or $125 after Jan. 16, 2009). For the congregation fee, a choir can send as many members as it desires. Lunch and the choral music are not included in the fee. For more information or registration forms, call 314-505-7486 or e-mail ce at csl.edu. Back to top LUTHERANS FOR LIFE INVITES OTHERS TO JOIN JANUARY MARCH (From LCMSNews -- No. 66, November 19, 2008) The Northern Virginia chapter of Lutherans For Life (LFL) invites other pro-life supporters to join its members, Synod President Gerald B. Kieschnick, and the LCMS Sanctity of Human Life Committee for the Jan. 22 "March for Life" in Washington, D.C., and several other march-day activities. That chapter also is offering to help arrange complementary housing through host families for out-of-towners who join the Lutheran delegation. The annual March for Life observes the anniversary of the Jan. 22, 1973, U.S. Supreme Court's "Roe v. Wade" decision legalizing abortion in the United States. Expected to draw an estimated 100,000 participants, the 2009 march will be the 12th consecutive one in which an LFL delegation is participating, and the first one for Kieschnick. It also will be the first time that the 10-member LCMS Sanctity of Life Committee (which is under the auspices of LCMS World Relief and Human Care [WR-HC]) participates as a group. LFL-sponsored activities Jan. 22 start with an 8 a.m. worship service at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Alexandria, Va., with Kieschnick as the scheduled preacher. A complementary brunch follows there at 9:30, and afterwards marchers will carpool to the National Mall for the pre-march rally at noon. The march itself begins from the Mall at 1:30, and is scheduled to end about 3 p.m. at the U.S. Supreme Court building. Those who join the Lutheran marchers for the rally should look for the Lutherans For Life and Synod banners, starting about 11 a.m., on the right side of the mall (facing the speakers podium), between 7th and 8th Streets. A number of U.S. senators and members of the House of Representatives are expected to speak during the rally, along with national pro-life leaders. The theme for this year's March for Life and rally is "REMEMBER -- the 'LIFE Principles' mean 'Equal Care' with 'No Exception!'" For more information about housing or march-related activities, email Dennis Di Mauro, president of the LFL Northern Virginia chapter and organizer of its march activities, at dennisdimauro at yahoo.com. "The election of a pro-choice president makes the March for Life even more important this year," Di Mauro said. "It will also serve as a powerful reminder of the need to nominate judges to the Supreme Court who are willing to defend the sanctity of life." Kieschnick said that this is the first year that his schedule has made it possible for him to participate in the March for Life. He also said, "I very much look forward to this activity that in a visible way communicates our Synod's strong pro-life position, with which I wholeheartedly and unapologetically agree. Particularly at this point in history, it is imperative for LCMS members and other Christian citizens to affirm and speak in support of the God-given blessing of life, from conception to the grave." Maggie Karner, director of Life and Health Ministries for LCMS WR-HC and chair of the LCMS life committee, said the meeting's agenda will center on discussion of "leadership strategies for upholding the pro-life position under the new federal administration, amidst many statewide changes. Our committee goals for this year will be focused on improving the pro-life witness of the LCMS within our congregations and the larger public square." "We are at a critical juncture in this nation's history for many reasons," Karner said. "Although the new administration and Congress may bring some positive things for our country and may speak for people who have felt underrepresented in the past, we must, as pro-life Christians, be unrelenting in our efforts to continue to speak out for the interests of those who have no voice at all: the unborn and the helpless." Back to top Thank you to all who shared information for this week's Update. If there is information here you know others would appreciate having, please feel free to forward part or all of this message. Invite them to register to receive the E-mail Update in their inbox every week by sending their email address to communications at ndlcms.org. Questions and suggestions may be e-mailed to that address as well. Advent blessings, Nichole Hetz Nebraska District LCMS Director of Communications 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: 46418 bytes Desc: not available URL: From distupd at lists.ndlcms.org Wed Dec 10 16:45:19 2008 From: distupd at lists.ndlcms.org (District Updates) Date: Wed, 10 Dec 2008 22:45:19 -0000 Subject: [DistUpd] December 10 Message-ID: Update for December 10 A publication of the Nebraska District, a District ABLAZE! Advent greetings in the name of Jesus, our Lord of Love. The lighting of this week's Advent candle reminds us of love - the incomparable and indescribable gift of God's love in His Son, Jesus. As we hustle and bustle through this busy time of preparation, may we take the time to thank God for His love that sent Jesus to save the world, and may we be ABLAZE! to share this Good News with those whose paths we cross. * Prayer Requests * Visit the Holy Land Next Summer * 2009 Nebraska District LLL Convention Information * "Stem Cell Research and the 21st Century Family Living in a Biotech World" Workshop * Good News from Fan into Flame * Visiting Theologian Weekend at Pacific Hills * Confirmation Retreat for Small Churches * Take the Bus to the LWML Convention in Portland * Grace Place Date Changes * Teen LWML Thanks Pastor * Family Life Ministry Workshops Offered by Concordia University * LCMS Families Lose Homes to Wildfires PRAYER REQUESTS Rev. William Engebretsen and family - We lift up in prayer Rev. William Engebretsen of Immanuel, Laurel, and his family at the passing of his mother, Alda. Mrs. Engebretsen was called to the Lord's side on Monday, December 8, and the funeral will be held on Friday, December 12, at Redeemer Lutheran Church, Harrison, Nebraska. Pastor Engebretsen also serves as pastoral counselor for the Nebraska North District LWML and as Wayne Circuit Counselor. Please ask the Lord to grant him and his family an extra measure of His comfort and peace at this time. Family of Rev. Juraine Hornig - Please remember in prayer the family of Rev. Juraine Hornig, who passed away in Rapid City, South Dakota, on Monday, December 8. Pastor Hornig served the congregation of St. Paul's, Ogallala from 1969 to 1985, during which time he also served on the mission field of the Philippines on two occasions. Funeral services will be Friday, December 12, at 10:00 a.m. at Peace Lutheran Church in Rapid City, South Dakota, with a second funeral service on Saturday, December 13, at 10:00 a.m. Central Time at Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church in Huron, South Dakota. We pray for the Lord to send His comfort and peace to the family during this difficult time. Nathan Hultquist - The following prayer request was shared by Pastor Don and Sandy Becker of St. Paul, Minden, on behalf of their grandson: Prayers are requested for Nathan Hultquist, who returns to Children's Hospital in Denver for another scheduled MRI Thursday, December 11, to check the status of Nathan's brain tumors first diagnosed in the spring of 2003, radiated in the summer of 2004, and neither growing nor spreading since then. Nathan's parents, Rob and Jen (Becker) Hultquist of Hearthwell, Nebraska, are also members of St. Paul, Minden. They share the following news: Nathan has an MRI next Thursday in Denver and then he'll do the multi-disciplinary clinic. This time we'll be seeing the neurosurgeon, neuropsychologist, neuro-oncologist, ophthalmologist, endocrinologist, dietician, and the social worker. Could be a long afternoon so we'll pack a big bag of stuff to keep Nathan busy. Please keep him in your prayers. Back to top VISIT THE HOLY LAND NEXT SUMMER Come to the Holy Land! Professor Mark Meehl of Concordia University, Nebraska, will be leading a tour of Israel from Jun 3-16, 2009. The tour will not only visit important biblical and archeological sites, but will introduce you to the current occupants of the land - Israelis, Palestinian Christians, and Palestinian Moslems. A pilgrimage of spiritual, biblical, and historical dimensions, this tour will feature worship in a thirteenth century chapel in Jerusalem, a boat trip across the Sea of Galilee, floating in the waters of the Dead Sea, leisurely walks through the Old City of Jerusalem, discussions with Palestinian Christians living in Bethlehem, and much more. Please consider joining this wonderful tour. The cost for the tour is $4,080, which includes all meals, fees, and tips . . . everything except lunches. For more information, contact Mark Meehl at mark.meehl at cune.edu or 402-643-6652. Back to top 2009 NEBRASKA DISTRICT LLL CONVENTION INFORMATION Lutheran Hour Speaker Rev. Ken Klaus will be featured at the 2009 Nebraska District Lutheran Laymen's League District Convention to take place at the Holiday Inn Convention Center in Sidney on March 27-29. Plans for the convention weekend, which begins Friday evening, include an in-service gathering for backpacks for children in Lebanon through LHM's Global Care Packages Program, entertainment by Zone 1, evening devotions, and a reception for Mick Onnen, new International LLL President from Davenport, and Rev. Ken Klaus. Convention business will be conducted Saturday, followed by a Lutheran Hour Rally at 4:00 p.m. Rev. Ken Klaus will be the speaker and organist will be J. Gordon Christensen of Imperial. A brat feed will follow the rally. Another highlight Saturday evening will be a question-and-answer session featuring Rev. Klaus and Mick Onnen. Participants will have the opportunity to hear information about Lutheran Hour Ministries and the new Men's Network. Sunday morning will close the convention with a worship service and a Bible study led by Rev. Klaus. This convention offers a special opportunity to spend time together with fellow believers, to be encouraged in your faith, and to visit with the Lutheran Hour Speaker. Pastors and laity, both men and women, throughout Nebraska are invited to join together for a great time of Christian fellowship. Mark your calendars for March 27-29, and make plans now to head out to Sidney! Back to top "STEM CELL RESEARCH AND THE 21ST CENTURY FAMILY LIVING IN A BIOTECH WORLD" WORKSHOP Dr. Robert W. Weise, Professor of Practical Theology at Concordia Seminary in St. Louis will conduct a workshop entitled "Stem Cell Research and the 21st Century Family Living in a Biotech World" at Messiah Lutheran Church at 1800 S. 84th Street on Saturday, December 13, from 9:00 a.m. until 12:00 noon and again from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. There is no admission charge to attend the event. Dr. Weise's presentation will center on the current national and international debate over adult and embryonic stem cell research. He will begin with an overview of current biotechnologies such as test-tube babies, embryo adoption, genetic technology, and their connection to stem cell research. His discussion will also include the current influence of Natural Darwinism and the current political and media environment. A scientific explanation of stem cell research will be reviewed in light of Paul's teachings. The use of 500,000 "spare, abandoned" frozen embryonic human beings in embryonic stem cell research will also be discussed. Dr. Weise enjoys group discussions and time for questions and answers. His goal is to assist those who attend to structure their thinking in these issues using the Word of God as his foundation. Dr. Weise will also be delivering the sermon at Messiah's Sunday worship services on December 15 at 8:00 a.m., 10:30 a.m., and 6:00 p.m. Back to top GOOD NEWS FROM FAN INTO FLAME The Lord continues to work in the hearts of His people, and as more Nebraska District congregations share with their members the urgent need to tell people about the saving work of Jesus Christ, hearts are moved to support this work with gifts and prayers. That's what Fan into Flame is: the invitation for each member in every congregation to be involved in supporting Ablaze! mission projects through gifts and prayers. Every gift to this unique mission endeavor goes to support telling people about Jesus in four mission fields as outlined in Acts 1:8 - locally, district-wide, nationally, and internationally. Just this week, the Nebraska District received Fan into Flame pledge agreements and reports from two more congregations: Immanuel, Daykin and St. John, (Kramer) Crete. Both congregations implemented congregational appeals and held their commitment Sundays in November. The Lord moved the hearts of the people at Immanuel, Daykin, and their gifts exceeded the congregational goal by more than 225%! The people of St. John, rural Crete, were also moved to support mission and ministry opportunities and exceeded their goal by more than 120%! Thanks be to God for using the people in these congregations to support outreach ministry projects in their communities, in Nebraska, and around the world. These congregations, together with several generous donors and more than 35 other congregations in the Nebraska District that have or are currently participating in Fan into Flame, contributed to the over $3 million given or committed so far from Nebraska to support sharing the Good News of salvation through Jesus Christ. Just imagine the outreach projects that could be supported to spread the Gospel message if your congregation joined in this effort! Other congregations are still considering how they will participate. Many congregations will discuss this opportunity at their January voters' meetings and make decisions. If your congregation has not discussed Fan into Flame or decided how to participate, make plans now to talk about this at your next meeting. More information, as well as a Congregational Pledge Agreement Form, is available on the District's Fan into Flame website, www.ndlcms.org/news/FiF. Questions may be directed to Andrea Essling at the District Office, Andrea.Essling at lcms.org or 888-643-2961. Back to top VISITING THEOLOGIAN WEEKEND AT PACIFIC HILLS Pacific Hills, Omaha (1110 S 90th Street), offers the fifth annual Visiting Theologian Weekend February 20-22. This year's featured speaker will be Dr. Charles Arand, professor of systematic theology at Concordia Seminary in St. Louis. Dr. Arand's topic will be "Luther's Two Kinds of Righteousness - For the Pulpit and the Pew." The weekend begins on Saturday with registration at 8:45 a.m. The cost for the presentation is $15 per person or $10 for students, payable at the door. Continental breakfast will be served from 9:00 - 9:30 a.m., with Dr. Arand's presentation beginning at 9:30 a.m. Lunch will be served at 11:30 a.m. On Sunday, Dr. Arand will preach at the 8:00 and 10:30 a.m. services, as well as leading the Adult Forum at 9:15 a.m. A noon luncheon will be offered, along with question-and-answer time. Those interested in attending should reserve space by February 18 by emailing revhawk at cox.net. Dr. Arand's most recent book (2008), co-authored with his seminary colleague Dr. Robert Kolb, is "The Genius of Luther's Theology: A Wittenberg Way of Thinking for the Contemporary Church." The book is a refreshing visit to the heart of Luther's theology; namely, the two kinds of righteousness and God's powerful Word. Published by Baker Academic, the book is available at discount at Amazon.com. Reading the book, especially Part One, prior to the weekend would provide excellent preparation for Dr. Arand's presentation. Dr. Arand would be pleased to sign your copy of his book. Back to top CONFIRMATION RETREAT FOR SMALL CHURCHES Camp Luther will be hosting a Confirmation Retreat on February 27-28 for small churches, especially those with 10 or fewer students in their confirmation classes. Rev. Keith Christianson will be the guest speaker, and he will speak on three of the six chief parts. Each pastor and their own students will be able to meet and discuss each topic further after each of his presentations. In addition, camp staff (including some CU students) will provide group games, activities, and campfires. More details and registration materials are available on the camp website at www.campluther.org under the "What's New" link. Back to top TAKE THE BUS TO THE LWML CONVENTION IN PORTLAND Arrangements are currently being made to provide a charter bus to the LWML Convention being held in Portland June 25-28, 2009. Anyone is invited to ride along and enjoy the smooth ride on a Heartland Coach to and from the convention. The bus will leave Monday morning, June 22, picking up passengers at Beatrice, then various locations along I-80 from Lincoln to Ogallala. Passengers will stay overnight at Cheyenne, Wyo.; Ogden, Utah; and LaGrande, Ore.; with the bus arriving in Portland about noon on Thursday, June 25. The convention begins Thursday evening and ends around noon on Sunday, June 28. The bus will leave Portland right after the convention ends and passengers will stay at the same motels they did on the way out. The bus should return to Beatrice Wednesday evening, July 1. More details will be shared with those who register for the trip. To register, see the form printed in the Winter 2008 LWML Quarterly Echo, the LWML South newsletter, or contact Edna Moll for more information at 402-365-4181. The registration deadline for reservations on the bus is January 31. Back to top GRACE PLACE DATE CHANGES Grace Place Retreats has made the following changes to their 2009 schedule. This is a change from the dates previously shared through Nebraska District publications. Congregations and church workers are encouraged to include a Grace Place Retreat in plans for 2009, so please make note of the following changes. July 6-10, 2009 Pastors and spouses in Aspen, Colorado Cost $345 July 13-17, 2009 Educators/Ministers of Music and spouses in Aspen, Colorado Cost $345 For information regarding these or additional retreats, you may check the District website www.ndlcms.org/congregational/workercare/graceplace.html or go to www.graceplaceretreats.org to register. Back to top TEEN LWML THANKS PASTOR The results of the Pastor Appreciation Month Card Challenge by Immanuel Laurel's Teen LWML: WORD! were 24 cards, one cross-shaped cake (shared with the confirmation class), and a package of Twizzlers. WORD! will be mailing at least $13.00, and Immanuel LWML will be matching this amount, to District North LWML Mites. Pastor Engebretsen has been more than pleased with the response and personally thanked the congregation before worship services on November 2nd. What a blessing to see these young women recognizing the important work of their pastor with mission gifts to help share the love of Jesus with others! Back to top FAMILY LIFE MINISTRY WORKSHOPS OFFERED BY CONCORDIA UNIVERSITY Concordia University, Nebraska, is offering a number of Family Life Ministry workshops in January as part of its College of Graduate Studies at its Lincoln Campus. Those who are interested in attending one or more of the following workshops may do so on a day-by-day basis. The cost is $50 per workshop/day, and participants will not earn credit, but will earn continuing education credits. Theo 585 - Family Life Ministry Instructor: Dr. Paul Vasconcellos Monday, Jan. 12 Theological Framework: Families and the Church (Workshop #190) Tuesday, Jan. 13 Defining the Family (Workshop #191) Wednesday, Jan. 14 Changing the Paradigm (Workshop #192) Thursday, Jan. 15 Family Ministry in the Congregation (Workshop #193) Friday, Jan. 16 Congregational Family Ministry (Workshop #194) Psy 555 - Lifespan Development Instructor: Rev. Kevin Kohnke Monday, Jan. 19 Lifespan Development Perspectives (Workshop #130) Tuesday, Jan. 20 Adolescence (Workshop #131) Wednesday, Jan. 21 Middle-Late Childhood (Workshop #132) Thursday, Jan. 22 Early, Middle, and Late Adulthood (Workshop #133) Friday, Jan. 23 End of Life and Faith Maturity (Workshop #134) Theo 483 - Sexuality and the Family Instructor: Rev. Roger Sonnenberg Monday, Jan. 26 The Theology of Sexuality and Reproduction (Workshop #170) Tuesday, Jan. 27 Love and Intimacy (Workshop #171) Wednesday, Jan. 28 Sexual Health (Workshop #172) Thursday, Jan. 29 Sexual Violence (Workshop #173) Friday, Jan. 30 Teaching Human Sexuality (Workshop #174) To register your attendance for a workshop please print out the form located at the following web address, complete, and mail to the address on the form: http://www.cune.edu/resources/docs/academics/family-life-registration.pdf. If you would like more information, please contact Rev. Kevin Kohnke at kevin.kohnke at cune.edu. Back to top LCMS FAMILIES LOSE HOMES TO WILDFIRES (From LCMSNews - No. 72, December 5) Rev. Craig Boehlke and his wife, Jennifer, were watching television at 11:30 p.m. Nov. 15, when a neighbor knocked on their sliding glass door and warned them that wildfires were approaching their mobile home community in Sylmar, Calif. The couple switched to the local news channel and watched the fire's progression. At 2:30 a.m., they received a mandatory evacuation order. "We had about 15 minutes to get photo albums, pictures off the wall, and some changes of clothing into our car," said Boehlke, pastor of Our Savior's First Lutheran Church, Granada Hills, Calif. "That was all." Their home was one of 425 mobile homes that were reduced to ashes by the wildfires that swept through the San Fernando Valley, just north of Los Angeles. They and five other LCMS families lost their houses in the community including Rev. Charles Collier, pastor of Faith Lutheran Church in Tujunga, Calif., who lost two homes: his and a rental property that was for sale. Collier, who had knee replacement surgery two weeks earlier, was asleep when the evacuation order was received. "We had 10 minutes to get out: me, three dogs, and my caretaker." Even with his knee still painful, he managed to drive his van away from the fire. "We talk about helping people out in these kinds of circumstances," he said, "but now I approach it differently having been on the other side. The Pacific Southwest District people just have been so generous and loving on top of all this. And I will be returning money to the disaster fund as I'm able." The fund he mentions was started last year during the southern California fires, said Jerry Reichman, executive team leader and disaster response coordinator for the Pacific Southwest District. Donations to it have been made by LCMS Lutherans all over the country. "We gave about $100,000 to those affected in the San Diego fires," Reichman said, "and we have given $24,000 to the four churches whose pastors and members were affected by these latest fires." The Boehlkes, accompanied by Rev. Glenn F. Merritt, director of Disaster Response, and Rev. Carlos Hernandez, director of Districts and Congregations with LCMS World Relief and Human Care, returned to their home several days later, but all they found were pieces of their nativity scene which had been in a storage area. Boehlke says he can see God in action even in the midst of the destruction. "People have been wonderful in responding to this crisis," Boehlke said. "Our Pacific Southwest District office has helped, as has LCMS World Relief. Some non-LCMS churches have even taken up door offerings for us. To see the body of Christ responding like this is wonderful." During their two-day trip to California, Merritt and Hernandez met with Rev. James Page and Principal Peggy Courtney of First Lutheran Church and School in San Fernando. First Lutheran opened its doors to people who had evacuated their homes in the middle of the night and served as a shelter for two days. LCMS WR-HC gave a $5,000 emergency disaster relief grant to the school to help two of its non-member families whose homes were destroyed. "These are folks who really need help," Page told the LCMS WR-HC staff. "Even before the economic downturn, people here were living paycheck to paycheck." First Lutheran School, with grades K-12, serves a large Latino population and a growing Korean population. LCMS WR-HC gave another $5,000 grant to Hephatha Lutheran Church and School, Anaheim, Calif., to help two non-member families who lost everything in the fire. As of Dec. 3, the Synod's disaster response arm has given $36,000 in emergency relief grants to the Pacific Southwest District and its congregations. "These grants will not cover all the many needs of these households," said Hernandez, "which include the up-front costs of transitional housing, clothing, furnishings, food, etc., but it will help them begin the long road back to recovery, which includes knowing, experiencing, and receiving Christian care and compassion as they move through the trauma and crisis of suddenly being homeless." Donations may be sent to LCMS World Relief and Human Care, P.O. Box 66861, St. Louis, MO 63166-9810. Or, call the credit-card gift line at 888-930-4438. To give online, visit http://www.lcms.org/ca/worldrelief/menus/news (click "Give Now"). Back to top Advent blessings, Nichole Hetz Nebraska District LCMS Director of Communications 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: 50209 bytes Desc: not available URL: From distupd at lists.ndlcms.org Thu Dec 11 13:54:14 2008 From: distupd at lists.ndlcms.org (District Updates) Date: Thu, 11 Dec 2008 19:54:14 -0000 Subject: [DistUpd] FIREworks Newsletter Message-ID: Greetings in Christ! Attached is the current issue of FIREworks, a newsletter designed to educate and update the leaders of the Nebraska District on the Fan into Flame campaign in Nebraska. This newsletter is sent every other week to share current information and stories about the things God is doing through Ablaze! and Fan into Flame. Pastors and church office staff are encouraged to print and post this newsletter, reproduce this page for their congregational newsletter, or forward it to their electronic mailing list. Issues of this newsletter are also available by following the Fan into Flame link on the District website, www.ndlcms.org. You are receiving this newsletter because you receive the weekly Email Update e-newsletter. If you wish to unsubscribe from this list, you may email your request to nicholeh at ndlcms.org. Removing yourself from this list will also take you off the list to receive the weekly Email Update, the Mission Fields Nebraska newsletter, and the Sudan Mission newsletter. I appreciate the opportunity to share with you news of how God is using the congregations and individuals of the Nebraska District through this exciting mission effort. Feel free to contact me with any questions you might have on Ablaze! or Fan into Flame. Nichole Hetz Nebraska District LCMS Director of Communications 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: 6026 bytes Desc: not available URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: 12-11.pdf Type: application/pdf Size: 49303 bytes Desc: 12-11.pdf URL: From distupd at lists.ndlcms.org Wed Dec 17 16:52:41 2008 From: distupd at lists.ndlcms.org (District Updates) Date: Wed, 17 Dec 2008 22:52:41 -0000 Subject: [DistUpd] December 17 Message-ID: Update for December 17 A publication of the Nebraska District, a District ABLAZE! Advent greetings in the name of our newborn Savior, Jesus. Traditionally, the third of the Advent candles is lit on Gaudate Sunday and helps to focus us on rejoicing. It may seem natural to rejoice when we think about the real meaning of Christmas and the wonderful gift of a Savior God sent, but how many people rush through December without taking the time to remember the real reason for the celebration they are frantically preparing for. The "rejoice" candle helps us to refocus on our celebration of Jesus' birth and the joy that will be ours for eternity at His second coming. Many people may grumble in the next week and not find anything to rejoice about, ourselves included. What a blessing that we have the joy of Christmas and of Easter to share with these people. May our rejoicing as we go about last minute tasks be evident to those around us, and may we be able to give witness to the joy we have when someone asks us about it. The Nebraska District Board of Directors and Staff wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas and a blessed New Year. * Prayer Requests * District Office Holiday Hours * No Email Update Next Two Weeks * Fan into Flame Continues Across Nebraska * Concordia Plan Services "Reward" to Complete Assessment Ends December 31 * Special Christmas Activities Available on "JCPlayZone" * Lutheran Hour to Once Again Have Rose Parade Presence * Concordia Chamber Choir to Perform in North Platte * Pre-Lent Preaching Seminar * Concordia University Launches New Speaker Series, "Looking Beyond" * Concordia Publishing House Launches Website for The Lutheran Study Bible * LCMS Servant Events Offers Record Number of Events for 2009 * Share God's Word with Spanish-Speaking Neighbors PRAYER REQUESTS Pastor B.J. and Jessica Fouts - We give thanks to God for the gift of new life He has granted to Pastor B.J. and Jessica Fouts of Trinity, Hebron, at the birth of their daughter, Abigail. We rejoice with them at this addition to their family, and we look forward to welcoming Abigail into the body of Christ through her baptism. The Family of Rev. Mark Meschke - Please remember in prayer the family of Rev. Mark Meschke, 61, of Collinsville, Ill., who died on Friday, December 12. Rev. Meschke was preceded in death by his father, Bernhardt Meschke. Rev. Bernhardt Meschke served Mount Olive Lutheran Church of Norfolk, Immanuel Lutheran Church of Columbus, and Saint Peter Lutheran Church of Hampton. Pastor Bernhardt Meschke also served as Nebraska District Secretary. Rev. Gene and Linda Gierke and Family - We lift up in prayer Rev. Gene and Linda Gierke and their family at the passing of Linda's mother on Saturday, December 13. We ask the Lord to grant this family His comfort and peace at this time as they prepare for a Christmas without their loved one, while celebrating the gift of eternal life she received through Jesus Christ. Nathan Hultquist - Pastor Don Becker of St. Paul, Minden, shared this follow-up prayer request after his grandson's visit to the hospital last week: Prayers of praise and thanksgiving to God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Nathan's latest MRI showed all things stable. The team of specialists working with Nathan was pleased with his progress. Nathan has now been promoted to an annual MRI. The miracle of his radiation five years ago continues. We are all especially glad and grateful, and we continue to keep in our prayers all for whom cancer and other life-threatening diseases are a daily concern and sometimes a heavy burden. Back to top DISTRICT OFFICE HOLIDAY HOURS The District Office will be closed next Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, December 24, 25, and 26, for Christmas. The office will also be closed the following Wednesday and Thursday, December 31 and January 1, for New Year's Eve and New Year's Day. Regular office hours of 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. will be observed Monday and Tuesday, December 29-30, and normal office hours resume on Friday, January 2, at 8:00 a.m. Many frequently asked questions and other information is available on the District website anytime at www.ndlcms.org. Back to top NO EMAIL UPDATE NEXT TWO WEEKS Because the District Office will be closed the next two Wednesdays, this will be the last regular Email Update of the year. Urgent requests and important information will be shared throughout the holidays should the need arise. The next regular Update is scheduled to be sent on Wednesday, January 7. Anyone having information to be shared through the Update is encouraged to send it to communications at ndlcms.org by January 5 for inclusion in the January 7 Update. Back to top FAN INTO FLAME CONTINUES ACROSS NEBRASKA The Lord continues to work in the hearts of His people, and as more Nebraska District congregations share with their members the urgent need to tell people about the saving work of Jesus Christ, hearts are moved to support this work with gifts and prayers. That's what Fan into Flame is: the invitation for each member in every congregation to be involved in supporting Ablaze! mission projects through gifts and prayers. Every gift to this historic mission endeavor goes to support telling people about Jesus in four mission fields as outlined in Acts 1:8 - locally, district-wide, nationally, and internationally. Recently, the Nebraska District received Fan into Flame appeal reports from two more congregations: Christ, Nebraska City and St. Paul, Weeping Water. Both congregations implemented congregational appeals and submitted their reports. The Lord moved the hearts of the people at Christ, Nebraska City, and their pledges and gifts showed tremendous generosity and a lively mission spirit by surpassing the goal set by the congregation by nearly 140%. The people of St. Paul, Weeping Water, were also moved to support mission and ministry opportunities in a wonderful and generous way. Thanks be to God for how He is using the people in these congregations to support outreach ministry projects in their communities, in Nebraska, and around the world. These congregations, together with several generous donors and more than 40 congregations in the Nebraska District that have participated in Fan into Flame, contributed to the over $3 million given or committed so far from Nebraska to support sharing the Good News of salvation through Jesus Christ. Just imagine the outreach projects that could be supported to spread the Gospel message if your congregation joined in this effort! Other congregations are still considering how they will participate. Many congregations will discuss this opportunity at their January voters' meetings and make decisions. If your congregation has not discussed Fan into Flame or decided how to participate, make plans now to talk about this at your next meeting. More information, as well as a Congregational Pledge Agreement Form, is available on the District's Fan into Flame website, www.ndlcms.org/news/FiF. Fan into Flame will continue in the congregations of the Nebraska District into 2009. Congregations that have not yet participated are invited and encouraged to begin talking and thinking about how they can be involved. Andrea Essling, campaign consultant, will be moving to Michigan, where she will begin to work with the Michigan and Indiana Districts on their campaigns. However, she will still be available to Nebraska congregations as a resource as they discuss Fan into Flame or plan and implement an appeal. Questions may be directed to Andrea Essling at Andrea.Essling at lcms.org or 616-389-7747. Resource questions may be directed to the District Office at 888-643-2961or visit the District website at www.ndlcms.org/news/FiF. Back to top CONCORDIA PLAN SERVICES "REWARD" TO COMPLETE ASSESSMENT ENDS DECEMBER 31 Concordia Plan Services (CPS) is rewarding Concordia Health Plan (CHP) members who complete the online CareAllies Health Assessment before December 31 with a $75 "Be Well ... Serve Well" Rewards Visa Debit Card. If you've been meaning to do it, NOW is the time. Take a few minutes and let CareAllies help you assess your health habits and get "rewarded"! This new incentive is part of "a continuing effort to encourage healthier behavior among ... members and in support of LCMS ministries," said Steve Gruenwald, CPS's health and wellness educator. The offer is available to all members currently enrolled in the Concordia Health Plan (CHP), including Medicare members. Although covered dependents may take the assessment, they are not eligible for the card. CHP members who complete the online assessment can expect to receive the card within three to four weeks. It can be used anywhere Visa debit cards are accepted. "We want our church workers to enjoy the benefits of good health," Gruenwald said. "We're happy to reward people for taking the initiative to understand their health, because that's the first step in maintaining it. Research shows incentives lead people to action and action leads people to better health." To take the CareAllies Health Assessment, visit www.concordiaplans.org and look for the "Be Well ... Serve Well Health Assessment" link at the bottom left side of the screen. Information about the Reward Card and other CareAllies programs can be found in the "Health and Wellness" section of the website. To read the complete article, as well as many others, visit the Reporter Online at http://www.lcms.org/pages/rpage.asp?NavID=3641&yr=2008&mt=9 and click on the "CPS Offers $75 . . ." article. This portion of the article is reprinted with permission from the September 2008 Reporter, the official newspaper of The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod." Back to top SPECIAL CHRISTMAS ACTIVITIES AVAILABLE ON "JCPLAYZONE" Pastors and church office staff, please consider including some or all of the following information in your bulletins during Christmas break. When children are looking for something to entertain them during Christmas break, snow days, or sick days, point them to www.JCPlayZone.com, LHM's interactive children's website. Kids can keep busy reading Bible stories, playing Christmas-themed games, sending e-cards, working on printable coloring pages, reading daily devotions, listening to Christian music, and learning new crafts and recipes (this part requires adult supervision). Games include a word search, matching game, a game where kids can catch bouncing Christmas ornaments, and much more. Many of the activities change based on the season, so kids stay engaged, no matter what time of year it is. Most importantly, JCPlayZone provides a safe, Christian environment for children to play on the Internet. Back to top LUTHERAN HOUR TO ONCE AGAIN HAVE ROSE PARADE PRESENCE The theme of the 120th Tournament of Roses Parade on January 1, 2009, in Pasadena, California, is "Hats Off to Entertainment." The Lutheran Hour float includes a pipe organ and a choir with its theme - Hallelujah! Mick Onnen, International President, will be one of the float riders this year. The Int'l LLL's Southern California District sponsors The Lutheran Hour float. This is the 59th year of carrying on a mission to provide a Gospel witness to viewers everywhere. The Tournament of Roses Parade is watched live on television by approximately 40 million Americans and by millions more people in 150 countries. Watch for The Lutheran Hour float on ABC and NBC as they broadcast the Rose Parade, but the LHM float may or may not be shown on those networks' stations because of commercials. Cable TV's Home and Garden Television (HGTV) may provide the best viewing option. It carries the entire parade without interruption nationwide. The Lutheran Hour float is scheduled as the 37th entry in the 90-unit parade. It will appear right after the Salvation Army band and directly in front of the parade's grand marshal. It is the only float in the Rose Parade with a Gospel message. Check your local listings for channels and times. Pastors and church office staff, please consider including the above paragraph or paragraphs in your bulletins the next two Sundays. Thank you. Back to top CONCORDIA CHAMBER CHOIR TO PERFORM IN NORTH PLATTE The Concordia University, Nebraska Chamber Choir will perform in several cities in Colorado plus a stop in Nebraska and a stop in Wyoming during its tour from Feb. 4-8. They will be performing one of their concerts at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church (1400 East E Street), North Platte, at 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, February 4. The choir's repertoire covers a wide range of classical and contemporary chamber choral works. On this tour they will premier David von Kampen's Matins, an innovative, five-movement choral work based on the historic liturgy for the early morning prayer service written for the choir. "The Chamber Choir is a select group of 16 singers including both music majors and non-majors," said Dr. Kurt von Kampen, associate professor of music and director of the choir. "These students have great vocal flexibility as they perform chamber choral works from all historical periods as well as vocal jazz selections. This diversity serves them in their future careers as educators and performers." The choir's members are selected from the 70-member University A Cappella Choir, also conducted by von Kampen. Back to top PRE-LENT PREACHING SEMINAR Good Shepherd, Lincoln, is pleased to announce that a Pre-Lent Preaching Seminar will be offered on Friday, January 30, 2009. The Rev. Brent Kuhlman will be the guest presenter with the title of his presentation, '"Dead, Buried, and Risen in Christ; preaching the 4th Chief Part." This seminar will offer sermons, preaching resources, and worship resources (LSB) for the Wednesdays in Lent, as well as Holy Week and Easter, based on the 4th Chief Part of Luther's Small Catechism. Cost is $12 and includes lunch and all preaching and worship materials. Please register by calling the church office at 402-423-7639 or by sending a note to: Rev. Clint Poppe at pastorpoppe at goodshepherdlincoln.org. Motel information is available by request. Back to top CONCORDIA UNIVERSITY LAUNCHES NEW SPEAKER SERIES, "LOOKING BEYOND" The faculty of Concordia University, Nebraska is launching a speaker series titled "Looking Beyond." The first event brings veteran reporter Al Kuettner to campus on Monday, January 19, Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Kuettner was the United Press International's national correspondent for the civil rights movement and has published a memoir, March to a Promised Land: The Civil Rights Files of a White Reporter 1952-1968. Kuettner will present "Martin Luther King and Civil Rights: An Eyewitness Report" at 10 a.m. in Weller Hall auditorium on Concordia's campus, and time will be provided for audience questions. The public is welcome to the free event. During his coverage of the civil rights movement, Kuettner interviewed key civil rights players, at times braving personal danger in the process. Among his interviewees were such figures as Martin Luther King Jr., the NAACP's Roy Wilkins, Alabama Governor George Wallace, and hundreds of others. "Al is an amazing man who has stayed sharp and active into his mid-90s," said Concordia Assistant Professor Tobin Beck. Beck is the former UPI executive editor and edited Kuettner's memoirs. "He devoted the main part of his extensive career to straightforward news coverage of all sides of the civil rights era, and he has an encyclopedic knowledge of the people and events of that time. A few years ago he went back through the South to talk to people, to gauge how race relations in the South have changed. That's what makes him unique - his insights into the history and impact of a movement that profoundly changed America." Kuettner will also sign books at a dessert fundraiser on Monday evening. The event will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. in the John W. Cattle Sr. Conference Room in the Janzow Center on Concordia's campus. Funds raised will go to support scholarships at Concordia College Selma, a historically black school and fellow member of the Concordia University System of The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod. For more information, including ticket reservations, call 800-535-5494, ext. 7304. "The motivation for a speaker series has come from both the students and the faculty," said Kathy Miller, associate professor of sociology and member of the organizing committee. "Our first priority is students and enhancing their educational experience. We plan on tying the speakers into course content and maximizing the students' exposure." Two additional speakers have been scheduled for the spring semester. Eliot Brenner, director of public affairs for the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, will cover "Nuclear Power: A View from Inside the Beltway" on Monday, February 23, at Concordia's Lincoln campus, and he will present "A Washington View of Nuclear Power" on Tuesday, February 24, on Concordia's Seward campus. Dr. Edward Martin, professor of philosophy and theology at Liberty University, Lynchburg, Va., will present the 2009 Martin and Regina Maehr Lecture: "The Problem of Evil" on Friday, March 27, at Concordia's Seward campus. Back to top CONCORDIA PUBLISHING HOUSE LAUNCHES WEBSITE FOR THE LUTHERAN STUDY BIBLE Concordia Publishing House (CPH) announces the launch of its promotional website for The Lutheran Study Bible at www.cph.org/lutheranbible. Pre-order sales begin online in March 2009. The product is the first study Bible in English to be developed from the ground-up with notes that are "exclusively and distinctively Lutheran." It contains more than 26,500 study notes, prepared by Lutheran theologians, scholars, and pastors representing more than 20 Lutheran church bodies. The Lutheran Study Bible uses the English Standard Version(r) translation, one of the fastest-growing translations worldwide and considered one of the most precise English translations available. At the website, CPH describes its offering into the market as "truly unique," and "not to be confused" with the recent ESV Study Bible from Crossways, or the Lutheran Study Bible from Augsburg Fortress (NRSV). "We are excited to offer all English-speaking Christians a study Bible that offers such a comforting and powerful Christ-centered understanding of the Scriptures," shares Rev. Paul T. McCain, Publisher and Executive Director of Editorial for CPH. The Lutheran Study Bible invites Lutheran Christians to, "engage in a conversation that has been unfolding within and around God's Word throughout the centuries," according to the website. Gretchen Jameson, CPH's corporate communications manager, shares "The Lutheran Study Bible combines a personal, devotional, and practical-application approach to Bible reading, alongside solid, scholarly study notes. There is, quite simply, nothing else like it available today." Information including the features of The Lutheran Study Bible, the product Foreword, and FAQs is located online at www.cph.org/lutheranbible. Back to top LCMS SERVANT EVENTS OFFERS RECORD NUMBER OF EVENTS FOR 2009 Over 100 LCMS servant events are planned for 2009! All kinds of events are available, from construction, human care, and outreach events to crisis, multicultural, and environmental events. There are also events especially for families, and for the first time in 2009, there will be an event just for young adults. LCMS servant events give young people across the country the experience of learning that serving others can make a difference because of Jesus Christ. Since 1981, LCMS youth and adults have participated in more than 1,000 servant events and have made a difference in the lives of thousands of others by contributing to the development of resources and facilities of Synodical camps, congregations, and other service agencies. Camp Luther in Schuyler, NE, will host "His Kids Camps A, B, and C" throughout the summer. Visit LCMS Servant Events online at www.lcms.org/youth for a complete listing of events and to search by type, date, and region of the country. For a free DVD about LCMS Servant Events, contact the LCMS Youth Ministry Office at youth.ministry at lcms.org or 800-248-1930, ext. 1155. Back to top SHARE GOD'S WORD WITH SPANISH-SPEAKING NEIGHBORS Planning a mission trip to a Spanish-speaking area? Is it within blocks of your church? Whether near or far, many congregations are on a mission to share God's Word with the people in their communities and throughout the world. The inspirational devotions in the Spanish Portals of Prayer magazine open doors of communication with your neighborhood. At your request, Concordia Publishing House is pleased to offer Portals to churches and ministries everywhere. Bring Portals of Prayer while witnessing; it shares God's Word long after you've left. Written in Spanish, not translated, each devotion encourages readers through readings, Scripture references, and short prayers. For generations, this popular devotional has brought personal growth and inspiration to English-speaking Christians. Take time to encourage other believers with the message of faith found in Portals of Prayer. To order, visit www.cph.org or call 1-800-325-3040. Back to top Christmas blessings and a happy New Year! Nichole Hetz Nebraska District LCMS Director of Communications 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: 51780 bytes Desc: not available URL: From distupd at lists.ndlcms.org Wed Dec 3 15:03:04 2008 From: distupd at lists.ndlcms.org (District Updates) Date: Wed, 03 Dec 2008 21:03:04 -0000 Subject: [DistUpd] December 3 Message-ID: Update for December 3 A publication of the Nebraska District, a District ABLAZE! Advent greetings in the name our Savior, for whom we wait in hopeful anticipation. According to some traditions, the first candle on the Advent wreath symbolizes hope. The prophets and others in the Old Testament hoped on the promises God gave them regarding the Savior. We join with them in hopeful anticipation of the coming of the Savior, both in the celebration of His birth at Christmas and at His second coming. May the Lord grant each of us the eyes to see the opportunities to share the hope we have in Jesus Christ with those around us this week. * Prayer Requests * Guitar Found at Youth Gathering * Youth Gathering Band Footage Available Online * Birthday Celebration for Rev. Dr. Ted Janzow * Good News from Fan into Flame * Living Nativities in Nebraska * Life Sunday Materials Available * Nebraska Lutherans for Confessional Study * Seminary to Offer Choir Member Workshop * Lutherans For Life Invites Others to Join January March PRAYER REQUESTS Bishop Andrew Elisa - Please continue to lift up in prayer Rev. Andrew Elisa, Bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Sudan. Bishop Elisa underwent brain surgery this past Sunday, November 30, and remains hospitalized in Jordan. Please pray for him and his wife, Linda, as they are far from their home and family at this very stressful time. We ask the Great Physician to grant healing, comfort, and strength at this time. We also lift up the Lutheran Church in Sudan, as they continue in ministry without the leadership of Bishop Elisa at this time. We also ask the Lord to provide the financial resources needed for these medical treatments. The hospitalization, treatments, and travel are very expensive (over $12,000 so far), and an appeal has come forward from LCMS World Mission and Lutheran Heritage Foundation to assist Bishop Elisa and his family in this time of need. Since the Nebraska District in its 2006 Convention voted to partner with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Sudan and is currently involved in various Lutheran Christian mission projects in Sudan, this appeal for prayer and gifts to help the Elisa family is coming to you. You may send monetary gifts to: Lutheran Heritage Foundation World Mission Center Attention: Jeff Rahn 51474 Romeo Plank Macomb, MI 48042 Please note "Andrew Elisa Medical Expenses" on the memo line of your check. OR You may go to www.lhfmissions.org and click on the article about Bishop Elisa to give a gift using a credit card. Back to top GUITAR FOUND AT YOUTH GATHERING Pastors and youth leaders - if your youth group attended the District Youth Gathering in Omaha in November and one of your students took a guitar along but came home without one, we might have it! To claim the guitar, contact Don Weber at the District Office at 888-643-2961 or donw at ndlcms.org. Back to top YOUTH GATHERING BAND FOOTAGE AVAILABLE ONLINE The Youth Gathering band, 211 Band, has posted video footage from the District Youth Gathering on its website. Visit http://www.211band.com/Index.asp?PageID=10638 to view the videos. Pictures of the band from the weekend are also available on the picture page at http://www.211band.com/Index.asp?PageID=10699. Back to top BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION FOR REV. DR. TED JANZOW Everyone is invited to celebrate Concordia University, Nebraska President Emeritus W. Theophil "Ted" Janzow's 90th birthday. An open house will be held on December 18 from 10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. in the lobby of Janzow Campus Center at Concordia University, Seward. Rev. Dr. Janzow served as Concordia's 6th president from 1963-1977. Prior to his presidency, he was a member of the faculty and taught sociology. Following his presidency at Concordia, he became the first president of Concordia Seminary, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. He has authored a number of books including his own autobiography, Servant for Jesus' Sake, and The Smoke of the Spirit, a collection of presidential columns printed in the Broadcaster in the 1960's and 70's. He currently lives in Lincoln. His four children, Fred, Frank, Kathy, and Dan, plan to attend the open house as well. Back to top GOOD NEWS FROM FAN INTO FLAME The Lord continues to work in the hearts of His people, and as more Nebraska District congregations share with their members the urgent need to tell people about the saving work of Jesus Christ, hearts are moved to support this work with gifts and prayers. That's what Fan into Flame is: the invitation for each member in every congregation to be involved in supporting Ablaze! mission projects through gifts and prayers. Every gift to this unique mission endeavor goes to support telling people about Jesus in four mission fields as outlined in Acts 1:8 - locally, district-wide, nationally, and internationally. Just this week, the Nebraska District received Fan into Flame pledge agreements and reports from two more congregations: Immanuel, Butte and Grace, Wayne. Immanuel made a pledge of new money from their budget over and above their current ministry giving. The congregation of Grace implemented a congregational appeal based on the cottage visit model and held their commitment Sunday in November. The first report received indicated congregational pledges and gifts of nearly $55,000! These congregations, together with several generous donors and 30 other congregations in the Nebraska District that have or are currently participating in Fan into Flame, contributed to the over $2.9 million given or pledged so far from Nebraska to support sharing the Good News of salvation through Jesus Christ. Just imagine the outreach projects that could be supported to spread the Gospel message if your congregation joined in this effort! Other congregations are still considering how they will participate. Many congregations will discuss this opportunity at their January voters' meetings and make decisions. If your congregation has not discussed Fan into Flame or decided how to participate, make plans now to talk about this at your next meeting. More information, as well as a Congregational Pledge Agreement Form, is available on the District's Fan into Flame website, www.ndlcms.org/news/FiF. Questions may be directed to Andrea Essling at the District Office, Andrea.Essling at lcms.org or 888-643-2961. Back to top LIVING NATIVITIES IN NEBRASKA Pastors and church office staff, please consider sharing these opportunities in your upcoming bulletins. Thank you. Eagle - A living nativity will be held on Sunday, December 14, starting at 6:30 p.m. at Immanuel Lutheran Church, 1009 G St, Eagle. Celebrate the Christmas season with an outdoor nativity pageant performed by the youth, including live animals. Join in singing familiar Christmas carols and hymns as the story of Christ's birth is retold. Refreshments will be served afterwards in the fellowship hall of the church. For information call the church office at 402-781-2190. Waverly - Peace Lutheran Church in Waverly will present a living nativity on December 12 at 7:00 and 9:00 p.m., and on December 14 at 7:00 p.m. Contact the church office at 402-786-2345 for more information. Back to top LIFE SUNDAY MATERIALS AVAILABLE (From Reporter Online - www.lcms.org/reporter) LCMS Life Ministries and Lutherans For Life both are offering resources designed to help congregations observe "Life Sunday" on January 18 or an alternate date. Life Ministries, a program area of LCMS World Relief and Human Care (WR-HC), is providing free online resources including sermon helps, a psalmody, and hymn suggestions. The new Life Sunday sermon study, written by Rev. Matthew C. Harrison, executive director of LCMS WR-HC, is based on John 1:43 and Psalm 139:1 from the lectionary. To download the resources, go to www.lcms.org/lifelibrary. New bulletin inserts, a Bible study, sermons, and a children's message are available from Lutherans For Life (LFL) for Life Sunday. "Good News For Life!" is the theme for the 2009 Life Sunday observance, which is designed to coincide with the anniversary of the U.S. Supreme Court's January 22, 1973, decision that legalized abortion. "The Gospel of Jesus Christ is not just Good News. It's Good News for life! It's Good News that brings life, speaks of life, speaks to life, and changes life! And we are called to let it shine!" LFL Executive Director James I. Lamb says in a cover letter with a sample mailing of the new materials that LFL sent in October to congregations, LFL groups, and other "friends of life." LFL is a pan-Lutheran organization based in Nevada, Iowa. LFL's new Life Sunday materials include five sermons: * In "Choice: A Word of Death, A World of Life," based on Rom. 1:18-2:4 and Eph. 1:3-13, Rev. John Juhl talks about "choice." His sermon presents "man's choice," which is "bad news that leads to death," and then "God's choice," which is "Good News that leads to life." Says Juhl: "His choice was not a selfish choice, but a self-giving choice." * In "The Preciousness of Life," from Phil. 2:15-16, Dr. David Veum points to the Word of Life as the agent to bring "true change to our world of darkness." He writes that our culture "has grown numb to the sounds of death" and makes clear that "we all choose death because of our sin." Says Veum: "The Author of Life also chose death. He chose to die for us all." * In "Cosmic War," based on Rev. 12:7-12, Rev. Christopher Esget writes that "there's a cosmic war going on" between the devil and the children of men. Abortion is one battle in the war, he says, but Christ has been victorious over the devil. * In Good News for Life," from Phil. 2:14-16, LFL Executive Director James I. Lamb emphasizes that "the Good News for Life is Good News for your life." * Lamb also is the author of "Chastity: The Choice of Champions," from 1 Cor. 6:12-20. This sermon, for those who would prefer to preach on one of the appointed readings for the second Sunday after Epiphany (Jan. 18), focuses on "how God makes us champions in Jesus Christ, which moves us to honor Him and others through chastity," Lamb says. All five sermons may be downloaded free from the LFL Web site at www.lutheransforlife.org. Other new items for 2009 that may be ordered separately are: * a bulletin insert (7 cents each, item no. 135BI). * a "Just for Kids" bulletin insert (7 cents each, item no. 701BI). * a reproducible Bible study (50 cents each, item no. 135BS). * a reproducible worship service format (15 cents each, item no. 1821). * a children's message (50 cents each, item no. 1828). * a CD ($5, item no. 1818CD) includes all five sermons, plus the worship service, children's message, and Bible study. Those who order Life Sunday resources from LFL also will receive a free copy of the 14-minute "For Life" DVD with study guide. LFL also offers numerous brochures, booklets, a memorial service for victims of abortion, and other resources. For more information, visit the LFL website at www.lutheransforlife.org or call 888-364-LIFE (5433). Back to top NEBRASKA LUTHERANS FOR CONFESSIONAL STUDY The December gathering of the Nebraska Lutherans for Confessional Study will be held on Thursday, December 11, at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 3825 Wildbriar Lane in Lincoln. Refreshments will be in the fellowship hall at 9:30 a.m., followed by Matins at 10 a.m. Presenter for the morning session, starting at about 10:30, will be Rev. Brent Kuhlman, pastor of Trinity, Murdock. His topic will be Luther's "Bondage of the Will," Parts I-III (LW 33:5-160). Following lunch, Rev. Paul Egger, pastor at St. John, Galva, Iowa, will lead the afternoon topic. His topic, starting at about 1 p.m., will be "The Treatise on the Power and Primacy of the Pope." The meeting will conclude by 2:30 p.m. Everyone is invited, both clergy and laity. A free-will offering will be taken to help defray expenses. Back to top SEMINARY TO OFFER CHOIR MEMBER WORKSHOP Concordia Seminary will offer its 17th Annual Schola Cantorum: An Adult Choir Member Workshop, on Saturday, January 24, 2009. The workshop will be held in The Chapel of St. Timothy and St. Titus and the Clara and Spencer Werner Auditorium on the Seminary campus in St. Louis. The Schola Cantorum is open to all choir members, choir directors, and ministers of music. The schedule for the day begins with registration at 8:15 a.m., Morning Prayer at 8:45 a.m., and rehearsal sessions at 9:15 a.m. The day concludes at 3:30 p.m. after the Closing Prayer service, which will include some of the music learned that day. Dr. Kurt von Kampen will serve as this year's clinician. Dr. Kurt E. von Kampen has been conducting choirs at Concordia University, Nebraska, since the fall of 1998, and is the fourth conductor in the 68-year history of the University A Cappella Choir. Prior to accepting the position at Concordia University, von Kampen served as head of the choral program at Concordia University in Ann Arbor, Mich., and as director of music at Lutheran High School Westland and Northwest in the Detroit area. He holds a bachelor of science degree in music education from Concordia University in Seward, Neb.; a master of music degree in choral conducting from Oakland University in Rochester, Mich.; and a Ph.D. in choral music education from the University of Nebraska. "We hold the Schola Cantorum as a way of serving the church at large," commented Rev. Henry Gerike, director of choirs at Concordia Seminary. "By attending, choir members and directors will learn and rehearse new choral music that can be used in their own churches. They will also learn better the art of singing. Each of our clinicians provides great insights into singing the praises of our Lord." This year, a Choral Reading Session will be held Friday, Jan. 23, 2009, from 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. In the session, von Kampen will guide participants through an evening of choral and instrumental song in which he will preview new and current titles of music. The session is open to all, but is especially designed for choir directors. There is no charge to attend but registration is required. The cost for the Schola Cantorum is $60 per individual or $110 per congregation ($70 or $125 after Jan. 16, 2009). For the congregation fee, a choir can send as many members as it desires. Lunch and the choral music are not included in the fee. For more information or registration forms, call 314-505-7486 or e-mail ce at csl.edu. Back to top LUTHERANS FOR LIFE INVITES OTHERS TO JOIN JANUARY MARCH (From LCMSNews -- No. 66, November 19, 2008) The Northern Virginia chapter of Lutherans For Life (LFL) invites other pro-life supporters to join its members, Synod President Gerald B. Kieschnick, and the LCMS Sanctity of Human Life Committee for the Jan. 22 "March for Life" in Washington, D.C., and several other march-day activities. That chapter also is offering to help arrange complementary housing through host families for out-of-towners who join the Lutheran delegation. The annual March for Life observes the anniversary of the Jan. 22, 1973, U.S. Supreme Court's "Roe v. Wade" decision legalizing abortion in the United States. Expected to draw an estimated 100,000 participants, the 2009 march will be the 12th consecutive one in which an LFL delegation is participating, and the first one for Kieschnick. It also will be the first time that the 10-member LCMS Sanctity of Life Committee (which is under the auspices of LCMS World Relief and Human Care [WR-HC]) participates as a group. LFL-sponsored activities Jan. 22 start with an 8 a.m. worship service at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Alexandria, Va., with Kieschnick as the scheduled preacher. A complementary brunch follows there at 9:30, and afterwards marchers will carpool to the National Mall for the pre-march rally at noon. The march itself begins from the Mall at 1:30, and is scheduled to end about 3 p.m. at the U.S. Supreme Court building. Those who join the Lutheran marchers for the rally should look for the Lutherans For Life and Synod banners, starting about 11 a.m., on the right side of the mall (facing the speakers podium), between 7th and 8th Streets. A number of U.S. senators and members of the House of Representatives are expected to speak during the rally, along with national pro-life leaders. The theme for this year's March for Life and rally is "REMEMBER -- the 'LIFE Principles' mean 'Equal Care' with 'No Exception!'" For more information about housing or march-related activities, email Dennis Di Mauro, president of the LFL Northern Virginia chapter and organizer of its march activities, at dennisdimauro at yahoo.com. "The election of a pro-choice president makes the March for Life even more important this year," Di Mauro said. "It will also serve as a powerful reminder of the need to nominate judges to the Supreme Court who are willing to defend the sanctity of life." Kieschnick said that this is the first year that his schedule has made it possible for him to participate in the March for Life. He also said, "I very much look forward to this activity that in a visible way communicates our Synod's strong pro-life position, with which I wholeheartedly and unapologetically agree. Particularly at this point in history, it is imperative for LCMS members and other Christian citizens to affirm and speak in support of the God-given blessing of life, from conception to the grave." Maggie Karner, director of Life and Health Ministries for LCMS WR-HC and chair of the LCMS life committee, said the meeting's agenda will center on discussion of "leadership strategies for upholding the pro-life position under the new federal administration, amidst many statewide changes. Our committee goals for this year will be focused on improving the pro-life witness of the LCMS within our congregations and the larger public square." "We are at a critical juncture in this nation's history for many reasons," Karner said. "Although the new administration and Congress may bring some positive things for our country and may speak for people who have felt underrepresented in the past, we must, as pro-life Christians, be unrelenting in our efforts to continue to speak out for the interests of those who have no voice at all: the unborn and the helpless." Back to top Thank you to all who shared information for this week's Update. If there is information here you know others would appreciate having, please feel free to forward part or all of this message. Invite them to register to receive the E-mail Update in their inbox every week by sending their email address to communications at ndlcms.org. Questions and suggestions may be e-mailed to that address as well. Advent blessings, Nichole Hetz Nebraska District LCMS Director of Communications 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: 46418 bytes Desc: not available URL: From distupd at lists.ndlcms.org Wed Dec 10 16:45:19 2008 From: distupd at lists.ndlcms.org (District Updates) Date: Wed, 10 Dec 2008 22:45:19 -0000 Subject: [DistUpd] December 10 Message-ID: Update for December 10 A publication of the Nebraska District, a District ABLAZE! Advent greetings in the name of Jesus, our Lord of Love. The lighting of this week's Advent candle reminds us of love - the incomparable and indescribable gift of God's love in His Son, Jesus. As we hustle and bustle through this busy time of preparation, may we take the time to thank God for His love that sent Jesus to save the world, and may we be ABLAZE! to share this Good News with those whose paths we cross. * Prayer Requests * Visit the Holy Land Next Summer * 2009 Nebraska District LLL Convention Information * "Stem Cell Research and the 21st Century Family Living in a Biotech World" Workshop * Good News from Fan into Flame * Visiting Theologian Weekend at Pacific Hills * Confirmation Retreat for Small Churches * Take the Bus to the LWML Convention in Portland * Grace Place Date Changes * Teen LWML Thanks Pastor * Family Life Ministry Workshops Offered by Concordia University * LCMS Families Lose Homes to Wildfires PRAYER REQUESTS Rev. William Engebretsen and family - We lift up in prayer Rev. William Engebretsen of Immanuel, Laurel, and his family at the passing of his mother, Alda. Mrs. Engebretsen was called to the Lord's side on Monday, December 8, and the funeral will be held on Friday, December 12, at Redeemer Lutheran Church, Harrison, Nebraska. Pastor Engebretsen also serves as pastoral counselor for the Nebraska North District LWML and as Wayne Circuit Counselor. Please ask the Lord to grant him and his family an extra measure of His comfort and peace at this time. Family of Rev. Juraine Hornig - Please remember in prayer the family of Rev. Juraine Hornig, who passed away in Rapid City, South Dakota, on Monday, December 8. Pastor Hornig served the congregation of St. Paul's, Ogallala from 1969 to 1985, during which time he also served on the mission field of the Philippines on two occasions. Funeral services will be Friday, December 12, at 10:00 a.m. at Peace Lutheran Church in Rapid City, South Dakota, with a second funeral service on Saturday, December 13, at 10:00 a.m. Central Time at Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church in Huron, South Dakota. We pray for the Lord to send His comfort and peace to the family during this difficult time. Nathan Hultquist - The following prayer request was shared by Pastor Don and Sandy Becker of St. Paul, Minden, on behalf of their grandson: Prayers are requested for Nathan Hultquist, who returns to Children's Hospital in Denver for another scheduled MRI Thursday, December 11, to check the status of Nathan's brain tumors first diagnosed in the spring of 2003, radiated in the summer of 2004, and neither growing nor spreading since then. Nathan's parents, Rob and Jen (Becker) Hultquist of Hearthwell, Nebraska, are also members of St. Paul, Minden. They share the following news: Nathan has an MRI next Thursday in Denver and then he'll do the multi-disciplinary clinic. This time we'll be seeing the neurosurgeon, neuropsychologist, neuro-oncologist, ophthalmologist, endocrinologist, dietician, and the social worker. Could be a long afternoon so we'll pack a big bag of stuff to keep Nathan busy. Please keep him in your prayers. Back to top VISIT THE HOLY LAND NEXT SUMMER Come to the Holy Land! Professor Mark Meehl of Concordia University, Nebraska, will be leading a tour of Israel from Jun 3-16, 2009. The tour will not only visit important biblical and archeological sites, but will introduce you to the current occupants of the land - Israelis, Palestinian Christians, and Palestinian Moslems. A pilgrimage of spiritual, biblical, and historical dimensions, this tour will feature worship in a thirteenth century chapel in Jerusalem, a boat trip across the Sea of Galilee, floating in the waters of the Dead Sea, leisurely walks through the Old City of Jerusalem, discussions with Palestinian Christians living in Bethlehem, and much more. Please consider joining this wonderful tour. The cost for the tour is $4,080, which includes all meals, fees, and tips . . . everything except lunches. For more information, contact Mark Meehl at mark.meehl at cune.edu or 402-643-6652. Back to top 2009 NEBRASKA DISTRICT LLL CONVENTION INFORMATION Lutheran Hour Speaker Rev. Ken Klaus will be featured at the 2009 Nebraska District Lutheran Laymen's League District Convention to take place at the Holiday Inn Convention Center in Sidney on March 27-29. Plans for the convention weekend, which begins Friday evening, include an in-service gathering for backpacks for children in Lebanon through LHM's Global Care Packages Program, entertainment by Zone 1, evening devotions, and a reception for Mick Onnen, new International LLL President from Davenport, and Rev. Ken Klaus. Convention business will be conducted Saturday, followed by a Lutheran Hour Rally at 4:00 p.m. Rev. Ken Klaus will be the speaker and organist will be J. Gordon Christensen of Imperial. A brat feed will follow the rally. Another highlight Saturday evening will be a question-and-answer session featuring Rev. Klaus and Mick Onnen. Participants will have the opportunity to hear information about Lutheran Hour Ministries and the new Men's Network. Sunday morning will close the convention with a worship service and a Bible study led by Rev. Klaus. This convention offers a special opportunity to spend time together with fellow believers, to be encouraged in your faith, and to visit with the Lutheran Hour Speaker. Pastors and laity, both men and women, throughout Nebraska are invited to join together for a great time of Christian fellowship. Mark your calendars for March 27-29, and make plans now to head out to Sidney! Back to top "STEM CELL RESEARCH AND THE 21ST CENTURY FAMILY LIVING IN A BIOTECH WORLD" WORKSHOP Dr. Robert W. Weise, Professor of Practical Theology at Concordia Seminary in St. Louis will conduct a workshop entitled "Stem Cell Research and the 21st Century Family Living in a Biotech World" at Messiah Lutheran Church at 1800 S. 84th Street on Saturday, December 13, from 9:00 a.m. until 12:00 noon and again from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. There is no admission charge to attend the event. Dr. Weise's presentation will center on the current national and international debate over adult and embryonic stem cell research. He will begin with an overview of current biotechnologies such as test-tube babies, embryo adoption, genetic technology, and their connection to stem cell research. His discussion will also include the current influence of Natural Darwinism and the current political and media environment. A scientific explanation of stem cell research will be reviewed in light of Paul's teachings. The use of 500,000 "spare, abandoned" frozen embryonic human beings in embryonic stem cell research will also be discussed. Dr. Weise enjoys group discussions and time for questions and answers. His goal is to assist those who attend to structure their thinking in these issues using the Word of God as his foundation. Dr. Weise will also be delivering the sermon at Messiah's Sunday worship services on December 15 at 8:00 a.m., 10:30 a.m., and 6:00 p.m. Back to top GOOD NEWS FROM FAN INTO FLAME The Lord continues to work in the hearts of His people, and as more Nebraska District congregations share with their members the urgent need to tell people about the saving work of Jesus Christ, hearts are moved to support this work with gifts and prayers. That's what Fan into Flame is: the invitation for each member in every congregation to be involved in supporting Ablaze! mission projects through gifts and prayers. Every gift to this unique mission endeavor goes to support telling people about Jesus in four mission fields as outlined in Acts 1:8 - locally, district-wide, nationally, and internationally. Just this week, the Nebraska District received Fan into Flame pledge agreements and reports from two more congregations: Immanuel, Daykin and St. John, (Kramer) Crete. Both congregations implemented congregational appeals and held their commitment Sundays in November. The Lord moved the hearts of the people at Immanuel, Daykin, and their gifts exceeded the congregational goal by more than 225%! The people of St. John, rural Crete, were also moved to support mission and ministry opportunities and exceeded their goal by more than 120%! Thanks be to God for using the people in these congregations to support outreach ministry projects in their communities, in Nebraska, and around the world. These congregations, together with several generous donors and more than 35 other congregations in the Nebraska District that have or are currently participating in Fan into Flame, contributed to the over $3 million given or committed so far from Nebraska to support sharing the Good News of salvation through Jesus Christ. Just imagine the outreach projects that could be supported to spread the Gospel message if your congregation joined in this effort! Other congregations are still considering how they will participate. Many congregations will discuss this opportunity at their January voters' meetings and make decisions. If your congregation has not discussed Fan into Flame or decided how to participate, make plans now to talk about this at your next meeting. More information, as well as a Congregational Pledge Agreement Form, is available on the District's Fan into Flame website, www.ndlcms.org/news/FiF. Questions may be directed to Andrea Essling at the District Office, Andrea.Essling at lcms.org or 888-643-2961. Back to top VISITING THEOLOGIAN WEEKEND AT PACIFIC HILLS Pacific Hills, Omaha (1110 S 90th Street), offers the fifth annual Visiting Theologian Weekend February 20-22. This year's featured speaker will be Dr. Charles Arand, professor of systematic theology at Concordia Seminary in St. Louis. Dr. Arand's topic will be "Luther's Two Kinds of Righteousness - For the Pulpit and the Pew." The weekend begins on Saturday with registration at 8:45 a.m. The cost for the presentation is $15 per person or $10 for students, payable at the door. Continental breakfast will be served from 9:00 - 9:30 a.m., with Dr. Arand's presentation beginning at 9:30 a.m. Lunch will be served at 11:30 a.m. On Sunday, Dr. Arand will preach at the 8:00 and 10:30 a.m. services, as well as leading the Adult Forum at 9:15 a.m. A noon luncheon will be offered, along with question-and-answer time. Those interested in attending should reserve space by February 18 by emailing revhawk at cox.net. Dr. Arand's most recent book (2008), co-authored with his seminary colleague Dr. Robert Kolb, is "The Genius of Luther's Theology: A Wittenberg Way of Thinking for the Contemporary Church." The book is a refreshing visit to the heart of Luther's theology; namely, the two kinds of righteousness and God's powerful Word. Published by Baker Academic, the book is available at discount at Amazon.com. Reading the book, especially Part One, prior to the weekend would provide excellent preparation for Dr. Arand's presentation. Dr. Arand would be pleased to sign your copy of his book. Back to top CONFIRMATION RETREAT FOR SMALL CHURCHES Camp Luther will be hosting a Confirmation Retreat on February 27-28 for small churches, especially those with 10 or fewer students in their confirmation classes. Rev. Keith Christianson will be the guest speaker, and he will speak on three of the six chief parts. Each pastor and their own students will be able to meet and discuss each topic further after each of his presentations. In addition, camp staff (including some CU students) will provide group games, activities, and campfires. More details and registration materials are available on the camp website at www.campluther.org under the "What's New" link. Back to top TAKE THE BUS TO THE LWML CONVENTION IN PORTLAND Arrangements are currently being made to provide a charter bus to the LWML Convention being held in Portland June 25-28, 2009. Anyone is invited to ride along and enjoy the smooth ride on a Heartland Coach to and from the convention. The bus will leave Monday morning, June 22, picking up passengers at Beatrice, then various locations along I-80 from Lincoln to Ogallala. Passengers will stay overnight at Cheyenne, Wyo.; Ogden, Utah; and LaGrande, Ore.; with the bus arriving in Portland about noon on Thursday, June 25. The convention begins Thursday evening and ends around noon on Sunday, June 28. The bus will leave Portland right after the convention ends and passengers will stay at the same motels they did on the way out. The bus should return to Beatrice Wednesday evening, July 1. More details will be shared with those who register for the trip. To register, see the form printed in the Winter 2008 LWML Quarterly Echo, the LWML South newsletter, or contact Edna Moll for more information at 402-365-4181. The registration deadline for reservations on the bus is January 31. Back to top GRACE PLACE DATE CHANGES Grace Place Retreats has made the following changes to their 2009 schedule. This is a change from the dates previously shared through Nebraska District publications. Congregations and church workers are encouraged to include a Grace Place Retreat in plans for 2009, so please make note of the following changes. July 6-10, 2009 Pastors and spouses in Aspen, Colorado Cost $345 July 13-17, 2009 Educators/Ministers of Music and spouses in Aspen, Colorado Cost $345 For information regarding these or additional retreats, you may check the District website www.ndlcms.org/congregational/workercare/graceplace.html or go to www.graceplaceretreats.org to register. Back to top TEEN LWML THANKS PASTOR The results of the Pastor Appreciation Month Card Challenge by Immanuel Laurel's Teen LWML: WORD! were 24 cards, one cross-shaped cake (shared with the confirmation class), and a package of Twizzlers. WORD! will be mailing at least $13.00, and Immanuel LWML will be matching this amount, to District North LWML Mites. Pastor Engebretsen has been more than pleased with the response and personally thanked the congregation before worship services on November 2nd. What a blessing to see these young women recognizing the important work of their pastor with mission gifts to help share the love of Jesus with others! Back to top FAMILY LIFE MINISTRY WORKSHOPS OFFERED BY CONCORDIA UNIVERSITY Concordia University, Nebraska, is offering a number of Family Life Ministry workshops in January as part of its College of Graduate Studies at its Lincoln Campus. Those who are interested in attending one or more of the following workshops may do so on a day-by-day basis. The cost is $50 per workshop/day, and participants will not earn credit, but will earn continuing education credits. Theo 585 - Family Life Ministry Instructor: Dr. Paul Vasconcellos Monday, Jan. 12 Theological Framework: Families and the Church (Workshop #190) Tuesday, Jan. 13 Defining the Family (Workshop #191) Wednesday, Jan. 14 Changing the Paradigm (Workshop #192) Thursday, Jan. 15 Family Ministry in the Congregation (Workshop #193) Friday, Jan. 16 Congregational Family Ministry (Workshop #194) Psy 555 - Lifespan Development Instructor: Rev. Kevin Kohnke Monday, Jan. 19 Lifespan Development Perspectives (Workshop #130) Tuesday, Jan. 20 Adolescence (Workshop #131) Wednesday, Jan. 21 Middle-Late Childhood (Workshop #132) Thursday, Jan. 22 Early, Middle, and Late Adulthood (Workshop #133) Friday, Jan. 23 End of Life and Faith Maturity (Workshop #134) Theo 483 - Sexuality and the Family Instructor: Rev. Roger Sonnenberg Monday, Jan. 26 The Theology of Sexuality and Reproduction (Workshop #170) Tuesday, Jan. 27 Love and Intimacy (Workshop #171) Wednesday, Jan. 28 Sexual Health (Workshop #172) Thursday, Jan. 29 Sexual Violence (Workshop #173) Friday, Jan. 30 Teaching Human Sexuality (Workshop #174) To register your attendance for a workshop please print out the form located at the following web address, complete, and mail to the address on the form: http://www.cune.edu/resources/docs/academics/family-life-registration.pdf. If you would like more information, please contact Rev. Kevin Kohnke at kevin.kohnke at cune.edu. Back to top LCMS FAMILIES LOSE HOMES TO WILDFIRES (From LCMSNews - No. 72, December 5) Rev. Craig Boehlke and his wife, Jennifer, were watching television at 11:30 p.m. Nov. 15, when a neighbor knocked on their sliding glass door and warned them that wildfires were approaching their mobile home community in Sylmar, Calif. The couple switched to the local news channel and watched the fire's progression. At 2:30 a.m., they received a mandatory evacuation order. "We had about 15 minutes to get photo albums, pictures off the wall, and some changes of clothing into our car," said Boehlke, pastor of Our Savior's First Lutheran Church, Granada Hills, Calif. "That was all." Their home was one of 425 mobile homes that were reduced to ashes by the wildfires that swept through the San Fernando Valley, just north of Los Angeles. They and five other LCMS families lost their houses in the community including Rev. Charles Collier, pastor of Faith Lutheran Church in Tujunga, Calif., who lost two homes: his and a rental property that was for sale. Collier, who had knee replacement surgery two weeks earlier, was asleep when the evacuation order was received. "We had 10 minutes to get out: me, three dogs, and my caretaker." Even with his knee still painful, he managed to drive his van away from the fire. "We talk about helping people out in these kinds of circumstances," he said, "but now I approach it differently having been on the other side. The Pacific Southwest District people just have been so generous and loving on top of all this. And I will be returning money to the disaster fund as I'm able." The fund he mentions was started last year during the southern California fires, said Jerry Reichman, executive team leader and disaster response coordinator for the Pacific Southwest District. Donations to it have been made by LCMS Lutherans all over the country. "We gave about $100,000 to those affected in the San Diego fires," Reichman said, "and we have given $24,000 to the four churches whose pastors and members were affected by these latest fires." The Boehlkes, accompanied by Rev. Glenn F. Merritt, director of Disaster Response, and Rev. Carlos Hernandez, director of Districts and Congregations with LCMS World Relief and Human Care, returned to their home several days later, but all they found were pieces of their nativity scene which had been in a storage area. Boehlke says he can see God in action even in the midst of the destruction. "People have been wonderful in responding to this crisis," Boehlke said. "Our Pacific Southwest District office has helped, as has LCMS World Relief. Some non-LCMS churches have even taken up door offerings for us. To see the body of Christ responding like this is wonderful." During their two-day trip to California, Merritt and Hernandez met with Rev. James Page and Principal Peggy Courtney of First Lutheran Church and School in San Fernando. First Lutheran opened its doors to people who had evacuated their homes in the middle of the night and served as a shelter for two days. LCMS WR-HC gave a $5,000 emergency disaster relief grant to the school to help two of its non-member families whose homes were destroyed. "These are folks who really need help," Page told the LCMS WR-HC staff. "Even before the economic downturn, people here were living paycheck to paycheck." First Lutheran School, with grades K-12, serves a large Latino population and a growing Korean population. LCMS WR-HC gave another $5,000 grant to Hephatha Lutheran Church and School, Anaheim, Calif., to help two non-member families who lost everything in the fire. As of Dec. 3, the Synod's disaster response arm has given $36,000 in emergency relief grants to the Pacific Southwest District and its congregations. "These grants will not cover all the many needs of these households," said Hernandez, "which include the up-front costs of transitional housing, clothing, furnishings, food, etc., but it will help them begin the long road back to recovery, which includes knowing, experiencing, and receiving Christian care and compassion as they move through the trauma and crisis of suddenly being homeless." Donations may be sent to LCMS World Relief and Human Care, P.O. Box 66861, St. Louis, MO 63166-9810. Or, call the credit-card gift line at 888-930-4438. To give online, visit http://www.lcms.org/ca/worldrelief/menus/news (click "Give Now"). Back to top Advent blessings, Nichole Hetz Nebraska District LCMS Director of Communications 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: 50209 bytes Desc: not available URL: From distupd at lists.ndlcms.org Thu Dec 11 13:54:14 2008 From: distupd at lists.ndlcms.org (District Updates) Date: Thu, 11 Dec 2008 19:54:14 -0000 Subject: [DistUpd] FIREworks Newsletter Message-ID: Greetings in Christ! Attached is the current issue of FIREworks, a newsletter designed to educate and update the leaders of the Nebraska District on the Fan into Flame campaign in Nebraska. This newsletter is sent every other week to share current information and stories about the things God is doing through Ablaze! and Fan into Flame. Pastors and church office staff are encouraged to print and post this newsletter, reproduce this page for their congregational newsletter, or forward it to their electronic mailing list. Issues of this newsletter are also available by following the Fan into Flame link on the District website, www.ndlcms.org. You are receiving this newsletter because you receive the weekly Email Update e-newsletter. If you wish to unsubscribe from this list, you may email your request to nicholeh at ndlcms.org. Removing yourself from this list will also take you off the list to receive the weekly Email Update, the Mission Fields Nebraska newsletter, and the Sudan Mission newsletter. I appreciate the opportunity to share with you news of how God is using the congregations and individuals of the Nebraska District through this exciting mission effort. Feel free to contact me with any questions you might have on Ablaze! or Fan into Flame. Nichole Hetz Nebraska District LCMS Director of Communications 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: 6026 bytes Desc: not available URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: 12-11.pdf Type: application/pdf Size: 49303 bytes Desc: 12-11.pdf URL: From distupd at lists.ndlcms.org Wed Dec 17 16:52:41 2008 From: distupd at lists.ndlcms.org (District Updates) Date: Wed, 17 Dec 2008 22:52:41 -0000 Subject: [DistUpd] December 17 Message-ID: Update for December 17 A publication of the Nebraska District, a District ABLAZE! Advent greetings in the name of our newborn Savior, Jesus. Traditionally, the third of the Advent candles is lit on Gaudate Sunday and helps to focus us on rejoicing. It may seem natural to rejoice when we think about the real meaning of Christmas and the wonderful gift of a Savior God sent, but how many people rush through December without taking the time to remember the real reason for the celebration they are frantically preparing for. The "rejoice" candle helps us to refocus on our celebration of Jesus' birth and the joy that will be ours for eternity at His second coming. Many people may grumble in the next week and not find anything to rejoice about, ourselves included. What a blessing that we have the joy of Christmas and of Easter to share with these people. May our rejoicing as we go about last minute tasks be evident to those around us, and may we be able to give witness to the joy we have when someone asks us about it. The Nebraska District Board of Directors and Staff wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas and a blessed New Year. * Prayer Requests * District Office Holiday Hours * No Email Update Next Two Weeks * Fan into Flame Continues Across Nebraska * Concordia Plan Services "Reward" to Complete Assessment Ends December 31 * Special Christmas Activities Available on "JCPlayZone" * Lutheran Hour to Once Again Have Rose Parade Presence * Concordia Chamber Choir to Perform in North Platte * Pre-Lent Preaching Seminar * Concordia University Launches New Speaker Series, "Looking Beyond" * Concordia Publishing House Launches Website for The Lutheran Study Bible * LCMS Servant Events Offers Record Number of Events for 2009 * Share God's Word with Spanish-Speaking Neighbors PRAYER REQUESTS Pastor B.J. and Jessica Fouts - We give thanks to God for the gift of new life He has granted to Pastor B.J. and Jessica Fouts of Trinity, Hebron, at the birth of their daughter, Abigail. We rejoice with them at this addition to their family, and we look forward to welcoming Abigail into the body of Christ through her baptism. The Family of Rev. Mark Meschke - Please remember in prayer the family of Rev. Mark Meschke, 61, of Collinsville, Ill., who died on Friday, December 12. Rev. Meschke was preceded in death by his father, Bernhardt Meschke. Rev. Bernhardt Meschke served Mount Olive Lutheran Church of Norfolk, Immanuel Lutheran Church of Columbus, and Saint Peter Lutheran Church of Hampton. Pastor Bernhardt Meschke also served as Nebraska District Secretary. Rev. Gene and Linda Gierke and Family - We lift up in prayer Rev. Gene and Linda Gierke and their family at the passing of Linda's mother on Saturday, December 13. We ask the Lord to grant this family His comfort and peace at this time as they prepare for a Christmas without their loved one, while celebrating the gift of eternal life she received through Jesus Christ. Nathan Hultquist - Pastor Don Becker of St. Paul, Minden, shared this follow-up prayer request after his grandson's visit to the hospital last week: Prayers of praise and thanksgiving to God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Nathan's latest MRI showed all things stable. The team of specialists working with Nathan was pleased with his progress. Nathan has now been promoted to an annual MRI. The miracle of his radiation five years ago continues. We are all especially glad and grateful, and we continue to keep in our prayers all for whom cancer and other life-threatening diseases are a daily concern and sometimes a heavy burden. Back to top DISTRICT OFFICE HOLIDAY HOURS The District Office will be closed next Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, December 24, 25, and 26, for Christmas. The office will also be closed the following Wednesday and Thursday, December 31 and January 1, for New Year's Eve and New Year's Day. Regular office hours of 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. will be observed Monday and Tuesday, December 29-30, and normal office hours resume on Friday, January 2, at 8:00 a.m. Many frequently asked questions and other information is available on the District website anytime at www.ndlcms.org. Back to top NO EMAIL UPDATE NEXT TWO WEEKS Because the District Office will be closed the next two Wednesdays, this will be the last regular Email Update of the year. Urgent requests and important information will be shared throughout the holidays should the need arise. The next regular Update is scheduled to be sent on Wednesday, January 7. Anyone having information to be shared through the Update is encouraged to send it to communications at ndlcms.org by January 5 for inclusion in the January 7 Update. Back to top FAN INTO FLAME CONTINUES ACROSS NEBRASKA The Lord continues to work in the hearts of His people, and as more Nebraska District congregations share with their members the urgent need to tell people about the saving work of Jesus Christ, hearts are moved to support this work with gifts and prayers. That's what Fan into Flame is: the invitation for each member in every congregation to be involved in supporting Ablaze! mission projects through gifts and prayers. Every gift to this historic mission endeavor goes to support telling people about Jesus in four mission fields as outlined in Acts 1:8 - locally, district-wide, nationally, and internationally. Recently, the Nebraska District received Fan into Flame appeal reports from two more congregations: Christ, Nebraska City and St. Paul, Weeping Water. Both congregations implemented congregational appeals and submitted their reports. The Lord moved the hearts of the people at Christ, Nebraska City, and their pledges and gifts showed tremendous generosity and a lively mission spirit by surpassing the goal set by the congregation by nearly 140%. The people of St. Paul, Weeping Water, were also moved to support mission and ministry opportunities in a wonderful and generous way. Thanks be to God for how He is using the people in these congregations to support outreach ministry projects in their communities, in Nebraska, and around the world. These congregations, together with several generous donors and more than 40 congregations in the Nebraska District that have participated in Fan into Flame, contributed to the over $3 million given or committed so far from Nebraska to support sharing the Good News of salvation through Jesus Christ. Just imagine the outreach projects that could be supported to spread the Gospel message if your congregation joined in this effort! Other congregations are still considering how they will participate. Many congregations will discuss this opportunity at their January voters' meetings and make decisions. If your congregation has not discussed Fan into Flame or decided how to participate, make plans now to talk about this at your next meeting. More information, as well as a Congregational Pledge Agreement Form, is available on the District's Fan into Flame website, www.ndlcms.org/news/FiF. Fan into Flame will continue in the congregations of the Nebraska District into 2009. Congregations that have not yet participated are invited and encouraged to begin talking and thinking about how they can be involved. Andrea Essling, campaign consultant, will be moving to Michigan, where she will begin to work with the Michigan and Indiana Districts on their campaigns. However, she will still be available to Nebraska congregations as a resource as they discuss Fan into Flame or plan and implement an appeal. Questions may be directed to Andrea Essling at Andrea.Essling at lcms.org or 616-389-7747. Resource questions may be directed to the District Office at 888-643-2961or visit the District website at www.ndlcms.org/news/FiF. Back to top CONCORDIA PLAN SERVICES "REWARD" TO COMPLETE ASSESSMENT ENDS DECEMBER 31 Concordia Plan Services (CPS) is rewarding Concordia Health Plan (CHP) members who complete the online CareAllies Health Assessment before December 31 with a $75 "Be Well ... Serve Well" Rewards Visa Debit Card. If you've been meaning to do it, NOW is the time. Take a few minutes and let CareAllies help you assess your health habits and get "rewarded"! This new incentive is part of "a continuing effort to encourage healthier behavior among ... members and in support of LCMS ministries," said Steve Gruenwald, CPS's health and wellness educator. The offer is available to all members currently enrolled in the Concordia Health Plan (CHP), including Medicare members. Although covered dependents may take the assessment, they are not eligible for the card. CHP members who complete the online assessment can expect to receive the card within three to four weeks. It can be used anywhere Visa debit cards are accepted. "We want our church workers to enjoy the benefits of good health," Gruenwald said. "We're happy to reward people for taking the initiative to understand their health, because that's the first step in maintaining it. Research shows incentives lead people to action and action leads people to better health." To take the CareAllies Health Assessment, visit www.concordiaplans.org and look for the "Be Well ... Serve Well Health Assessment" link at the bottom left side of the screen. Information about the Reward Card and other CareAllies programs can be found in the "Health and Wellness" section of the website. To read the complete article, as well as many others, visit the Reporter Online at http://www.lcms.org/pages/rpage.asp?NavID=3641&yr=2008&mt=9 and click on the "CPS Offers $75 . . ." article. This portion of the article is reprinted with permission from the September 2008 Reporter, the official newspaper of The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod." Back to top SPECIAL CHRISTMAS ACTIVITIES AVAILABLE ON "JCPLAYZONE" Pastors and church office staff, please consider including some or all of the following information in your bulletins during Christmas break. When children are looking for something to entertain them during Christmas break, snow days, or sick days, point them to www.JCPlayZone.com, LHM's interactive children's website. Kids can keep busy reading Bible stories, playing Christmas-themed games, sending e-cards, working on printable coloring pages, reading daily devotions, listening to Christian music, and learning new crafts and recipes (this part requires adult supervision). Games include a word search, matching game, a game where kids can catch bouncing Christmas ornaments, and much more. Many of the activities change based on the season, so kids stay engaged, no matter what time of year it is. Most importantly, JCPlayZone provides a safe, Christian environment for children to play on the Internet. Back to top LUTHERAN HOUR TO ONCE AGAIN HAVE ROSE PARADE PRESENCE The theme of the 120th Tournament of Roses Parade on January 1, 2009, in Pasadena, California, is "Hats Off to Entertainment." The Lutheran Hour float includes a pipe organ and a choir with its theme - Hallelujah! Mick Onnen, International President, will be one of the float riders this year. The Int'l LLL's Southern California District sponsors The Lutheran Hour float. This is the 59th year of carrying on a mission to provide a Gospel witness to viewers everywhere. The Tournament of Roses Parade is watched live on television by approximately 40 million Americans and by millions more people in 150 countries. Watch for The Lutheran Hour float on ABC and NBC as they broadcast the Rose Parade, but the LHM float may or may not be shown on those networks' stations because of commercials. Cable TV's Home and Garden Television (HGTV) may provide the best viewing option. It carries the entire parade without interruption nationwide. The Lutheran Hour float is scheduled as the 37th entry in the 90-unit parade. It will appear right after the Salvation Army band and directly in front of the parade's grand marshal. It is the only float in the Rose Parade with a Gospel message. Check your local listings for channels and times. Pastors and church office staff, please consider including the above paragraph or paragraphs in your bulletins the next two Sundays. Thank you. Back to top CONCORDIA CHAMBER CHOIR TO PERFORM IN NORTH PLATTE The Concordia University, Nebraska Chamber Choir will perform in several cities in Colorado plus a stop in Nebraska and a stop in Wyoming during its tour from Feb. 4-8. They will be performing one of their concerts at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church (1400 East E Street), North Platte, at 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, February 4. The choir's repertoire covers a wide range of classical and contemporary chamber choral works. On this tour they will premier David von Kampen's Matins, an innovative, five-movement choral work based on the historic liturgy for the early morning prayer service written for the choir. "The Chamber Choir is a select group of 16 singers including both music majors and non-majors," said Dr. Kurt von Kampen, associate professor of music and director of the choir. "These students have great vocal flexibility as they perform chamber choral works from all historical periods as well as vocal jazz selections. This diversity serves them in their future careers as educators and performers." The choir's members are selected from the 70-member University A Cappella Choir, also conducted by von Kampen. Back to top PRE-LENT PREACHING SEMINAR Good Shepherd, Lincoln, is pleased to announce that a Pre-Lent Preaching Seminar will be offered on Friday, January 30, 2009. The Rev. Brent Kuhlman will be the guest presenter with the title of his presentation, '"Dead, Buried, and Risen in Christ; preaching the 4th Chief Part." This seminar will offer sermons, preaching resources, and worship resources (LSB) for the Wednesdays in Lent, as well as Holy Week and Easter, based on the 4th Chief Part of Luther's Small Catechism. Cost is $12 and includes lunch and all preaching and worship materials. Please register by calling the church office at 402-423-7639 or by sending a note to: Rev. Clint Poppe at pastorpoppe at goodshepherdlincoln.org. Motel information is available by request. Back to top CONCORDIA UNIVERSITY LAUNCHES NEW SPEAKER SERIES, "LOOKING BEYOND" The faculty of Concordia University, Nebraska is launching a speaker series titled "Looking Beyond." The first event brings veteran reporter Al Kuettner to campus on Monday, January 19, Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Kuettner was the United Press International's national correspondent for the civil rights movement and has published a memoir, March to a Promised Land: The Civil Rights Files of a White Reporter 1952-1968. Kuettner will present "Martin Luther King and Civil Rights: An Eyewitness Report" at 10 a.m. in Weller Hall auditorium on Concordia's campus, and time will be provided for audience questions. The public is welcome to the free event. During his coverage of the civil rights movement, Kuettner interviewed key civil rights players, at times braving personal danger in the process. Among his interviewees were such figures as Martin Luther King Jr., the NAACP's Roy Wilkins, Alabama Governor George Wallace, and hundreds of others. "Al is an amazing man who has stayed sharp and active into his mid-90s," said Concordia Assistant Professor Tobin Beck. Beck is the former UPI executive editor and edited Kuettner's memoirs. "He devoted the main part of his extensive career to straightforward news coverage of all sides of the civil rights era, and he has an encyclopedic knowledge of the people and events of that time. A few years ago he went back through the South to talk to people, to gauge how race relations in the South have changed. That's what makes him unique - his insights into the history and impact of a movement that profoundly changed America." Kuettner will also sign books at a dessert fundraiser on Monday evening. The event will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. in the John W. Cattle Sr. Conference Room in the Janzow Center on Concordia's campus. Funds raised will go to support scholarships at Concordia College Selma, a historically black school and fellow member of the Concordia University System of The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod. For more information, including ticket reservations, call 800-535-5494, ext. 7304. "The motivation for a speaker series has come from both the students and the faculty," said Kathy Miller, associate professor of sociology and member of the organizing committee. "Our first priority is students and enhancing their educational experience. We plan on tying the speakers into course content and maximizing the students' exposure." Two additional speakers have been scheduled for the spring semester. Eliot Brenner, director of public affairs for the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, will cover "Nuclear Power: A View from Inside the Beltway" on Monday, February 23, at Concordia's Lincoln campus, and he will present "A Washington View of Nuclear Power" on Tuesday, February 24, on Concordia's Seward campus. Dr. Edward Martin, professor of philosophy and theology at Liberty University, Lynchburg, Va., will present the 2009 Martin and Regina Maehr Lecture: "The Problem of Evil" on Friday, March 27, at Concordia's Seward campus. Back to top CONCORDIA PUBLISHING HOUSE LAUNCHES WEBSITE FOR THE LUTHERAN STUDY BIBLE Concordia Publishing House (CPH) announces the launch of its promotional website for The Lutheran Study Bible at www.cph.org/lutheranbible. Pre-order sales begin online in March 2009. The product is the first study Bible in English to be developed from the ground-up with notes that are "exclusively and distinctively Lutheran." It contains more than 26,500 study notes, prepared by Lutheran theologians, scholars, and pastors representing more than 20 Lutheran church bodies. The Lutheran Study Bible uses the English Standard Version(r) translation, one of the fastest-growing translations worldwide and considered one of the most precise English translations available. At the website, CPH describes its offering into the market as "truly unique," and "not to be confused" with the recent ESV Study Bible from Crossways, or the Lutheran Study Bible from Augsburg Fortress (NRSV). "We are excited to offer all English-speaking Christians a study Bible that offers such a comforting and powerful Christ-centered understanding of the Scriptures," shares Rev. Paul T. McCain, Publisher and Executive Director of Editorial for CPH. The Lutheran Study Bible invites Lutheran Christians to, "engage in a conversation that has been unfolding within and around God's Word throughout the centuries," according to the website. Gretchen Jameson, CPH's corporate communications manager, shares "The Lutheran Study Bible combines a personal, devotional, and practical-application approach to Bible reading, alongside solid, scholarly study notes. There is, quite simply, nothing else like it available today." Information including the features of The Lutheran Study Bible, the product Foreword, and FAQs is located online at www.cph.org/lutheranbible. Back to top LCMS SERVANT EVENTS OFFERS RECORD NUMBER OF EVENTS FOR 2009 Over 100 LCMS servant events are planned for 2009! All kinds of events are available, from construction, human care, and outreach events to crisis, multicultural, and environmental events. There are also events especially for families, and for the first time in 2009, there will be an event just for young adults. LCMS servant events give young people across the country the experience of learning that serving others can make a difference because of Jesus Christ. Since 1981, LCMS youth and adults have participated in more than 1,000 servant events and have made a difference in the lives of thousands of others by contributing to the development of resources and facilities of Synodical camps, congregations, and other service agencies. Camp Luther in Schuyler, NE, will host "His Kids Camps A, B, and C" throughout the summer. Visit LCMS Servant Events online at www.lcms.org/youth for a complete listing of events and to search by type, date, and region of the country. For a free DVD about LCMS Servant Events, contact the LCMS Youth Ministry Office at youth.ministry at lcms.org or 800-248-1930, ext. 1155. Back to top SHARE GOD'S WORD WITH SPANISH-SPEAKING NEIGHBORS Planning a mission trip to a Spanish-speaking area? Is it within blocks of your church? Whether near or far, many congregations are on a mission to share God's Word with the people in their communities and throughout the world. The inspirational devotions in the Spanish Portals of Prayer magazine open doors of communication with your neighborhood. At your request, Concordia Publishing House is pleased to offer Portals to churches and ministries everywhere. Bring Portals of Prayer while witnessing; it shares God's Word long after you've left. Written in Spanish, not translated, each devotion encourages readers through readings, Scripture references, and short prayers. For generations, this popular devotional has brought personal growth and inspiration to English-speaking Christians. Take time to encourage other believers with the message of faith found in Portals of Prayer. To order, visit www.cph.org or call 1-800-325-3040. Back to top Christmas blessings and a happy New Year! Nichole Hetz Nebraska District LCMS Director of Communications 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: 51780 bytes Desc: not available URL: