From distupd at lists.ndlcms.org Wed Feb 1 13:17:03 2012 From: distupd at lists.ndlcms.org (District Updates) Date: Wed, 01 Feb 2012 19:17:03 -0000 Subject: [DistUpd] February 1 Message-ID: [cid:image001.gif at 01CCE0E3.C6020180] February 1, 2012 In this issue: Greetings in the name of our Heavenly Father. Tomorrow is Groundhog Day, that whimsical holiday where Punxsutawney Phil is said to stick his head out of his hole and use his shadow to predict the continuation of or the swift end to another winter. While this holiday gets more attention from elementary school students than the general population, the history behind the holiday has Christian origins. "This quirky holiday is a direct descendent of Candlemas, which, for early Christians, was a day to bless and distribute candles - a hot commodity in the days before electric light, especially during the cold, dark winter. The early Christians decided that clear skies on Candlemas Day meant a longer winter." (from visitpa.com website) The tradition traveled to America with the German Christians and continues today. As you hear the prognostication of Punxsutawney Phil on the news, or as your children share with you what their classrooms did to celebrate Groundhog Day, consider the early Christians and their mission of sharing candles with those who were literally sitting in darkness. What can we offer to those around us today who are sitting in the cold, dark world? May the Lord use each of us to shine His light today and always. News from the Nebraska District * Prayer Requests News from our Ministry Partners * Camp Luther Teams Can Help With VBS * Commentary on Isaiah 40-55 Released by CPH * National Youth Gathering Logo Designed by Concordia Nebraska Prof * Order Armed Forces Sunday Materials by February 10 * First Operation Barnabas Conference Set for February 15-16 * Hong Kong International School Seeks Educators * Service Opportunities in Poland * Concordia's Center for Liturgical Arts Featured at International Center * Midweek Outreach Ideas PRAYER REQUESTS Stephanie Howe and Family - Please lift up in prayer Stephanie Howe and her family at the death of her husband, Lincoln Police Officer Anthony Howe, last Wednesday night. Stephanie teaches fourth grade at Emmanuel-Faith Lutheran School in York. We ask the Lord to wrap His loving arms around her and their three sons at this difficult time, and we pray for the staff and members of Emmanuel and Faith as they minister to the needs of this family as they grieve. Rev. Jeffrey Geske - Please remember in prayer Rev. Jeffrey Geske of Salina, Kansas, his son Jacob, and their family at the loss of their wife and mother, Laura, and children Joshua and Joy, in a car accident over the weekend. We pray for the Lord to grant comfort and peace to the family as they mourn. To read more, view the Reporter Online article at http://reporter.lcms.org/pages/rpage.asp?NavID=19612. Back to top CAMP LUTHER TEAMS CAN HELP WITH VBS If your congregation would like to host a vacation Bible school this summer and is looking for volunteers to help, let Camp Luther's staff lend a hand. Camp Luther can send a group of three trained volunteers to your church to provide leadership, a craft, lessons and games each day. To learn more, contact Camp Luther's VBS director at vbs at campluther.org or 402-649-2846. Back to top COMMENTARY ON ISAIAH 40-55 RELEASED BY CPH Concordia Publishing House is pleased to announce the release of the latest volume in the Concordia Commentary: A Theological Exposition of Sacred Scripture series: Concordia Commentary: Isaiah 40-55, by Dr. R. Reed Lessing. The introduction describes these chapters of Isaiah as some of the best-known, most-cherished, and theologically significant texts in the Bible. "Dr. Reed Lessing's work is grounded in decades of scholarly research and service as a seminary professor and pastor. His lively and engaging style inspires preaching and gets your creative juices flowing," says Dr. Christopher Mitchell, Concordia Commentary editor at CPH. This commentary expounds the Hebrew text, theology, and Christology of the so-called "fifth Gospel." The prophet's saving message, soaring language, and unforgettable imagery are tightly woven into the fabric of Christian hymnody, liturgy, and prayer. Isaiah "is the Old Testament evangelist par excellence, the counterpart to St. Paul in the New Testament," Dr. Lessing writes. "For sheer grandeur, majesty, and supreme artistry, no other book in the Old Testament comes close." His chief doctrine matches his name, since "Isaiah" means "Yahweh is salvation." Concordia Commentary: Isaiah 40-55 contains many pericopes that figure prominently in the lectionary during Advent, Lent, and throughout the church year. These include the Suffering Servant Songs. To learn more about the prophet who envisioned the mysteries of Christ and the Church so clearly, visit cph.org or call 1.800.325.3040. Back to top NATIONAL YOUTH GATHERING LOGO DESIGNED BY CONCORDIA NEBRASKA PROF [cid:image003.jpg at 01CCE0E3.C6020180]Planners for the 12th triennial National LCMS Youth Gathering in 2013 have unveiled the Gathering logo and announced that online application is open for key Gathering volunteer positions. The Gathering logo features the theme for the Gathering, "Live Love(d)," and incorporates "a distinctive cross that will help tell the story of the theme," Gathering Program Director Rev. Mark Kiessling told Reporter. Kiessling is on the staff of the LCMS Office of National Mission -- Youth Ministry, which sponsors the national gatherings. Seth Boggs, a graphic designer and art instructor at Concordia University Nebraska, designed the 2013 logo. Boggs joined Gathering planners for a meeting last summer, when they continued studying 1 John under the direction of the Rev. Dr. Joel Lehenbauer, executive director of the LCMS Commission on Theology and Church Relations and theological adviser for the National Youth Gathering. The 2013 Gathering theme is based on 1 John 4:9. "Love in 1 John is anything but how our world defines it," Lehenbauer explained. "It's a matter of life and death. God loved us so much that He could not bear to see us die in our sin. He sent His own Son to suffer and die in our place, that we might live -- and love -- through Him. In 'Live Love(d),' the 'd' makes all the difference: 'We love because He (God) first loved us' (1 John 4:19)." In December, LCMS Youth Ministry rolled out the new identity mark on the Gathering website, www.lcmsgathering.com. And in January, the first theological paper is due to be on the site, which is the primary location where Gathering resources are made available. Also on the site is the online application and information for Gathering Community Life Builders (CLBs). This registration is open until Feb. 21, 2012. "Community Life Builders fill vital volunteer roles at the Gathering," Kiessling said. The 2013 National LCMS Youth Gathering is scheduled for July 1-5 in San Antonio. Gathering registration opens this coming fall. For more information, contact LCMS Youth Ministry by calling 800-248-1930, ext. 1155, or by email at youth.ministry at lcms.org. Back to top ORDER ARMED FORCES SUNDAY MATERIALS BY FEBRUARY 10 (From Reporter Online) To receive free resources to celebrate LCMS "Armed Forces Sunday" May 20, all congregations must place new orders by Feb. 10. This year's theme -- "New Mission ... New Orders ... Move Out!" -- is based on John 17:11-19. The website for ordering bulletin inserts in quantities of 50, a suggested sermon and responsive prayers is www.lcms.org/armedforcessunday. Items will be mailed in April. Also available on the Ministry to the Armed Forces website -- at www.lcms.org/armedforces -- is a form to register congregational members who are in the active military for its "Ministry-by-Mail" program. Servicemen and women receive materials in an initial packet when their name is put into the program and then regularly receive copies of Portals of Prayer. Congregations are encouraged to ask their members who are veterans to come in uniform to worship on May 20 and that a special recognition ceremony be held for them and their family members. Also, a military chaplain may be invited to speak for the occasion. "If your congregation chooses to celebrate Armed Forces Sunday on a day other than May 20, appropriate days could include a Sunday close to Memorial Day, Independence Day or Veterans Day," said Chaplain Mark Schreiber, director of LCMS Ministry to the Armed Forces. Resources will be sent closer to those dates. "Armed Forces Sunday, as celebrated by our church body today, gives every member time and occasion to reflect upon the dedicated service and tremendous sacrifice of all veterans in all wars who have helped to secure our place as a nation, by the grace of God," Schreiber added. To locate a chaplain in your area or for more information about Armed Forces Sunday resources, call 800-248-1930, ext. 1337, or send an email to lcmschaps at lcms.org. Back to top FIRST OPERATION BARNABAS CONFERENCE SET FOR FEBRUARY 15-16 The first-ever Operation Barnabas National Military Ministry Conference will be held Feb. 15-16 in Winter Haven, Fla. To register, visit the Operation Barnabas website at www.operationbarnabas.org. The deadline is Feb. 1. The conference is designed to provide an opportunity for Barnabas Chapter leaders from across the country to meet, share ideas and best practices, and to network with one another, as well as bring together reserve chaplains to meet and focus on the particular needs of their ministries as they balance church and military responsibilities. Operation Barnabas operates under the auspices of the LCMS Ministry to the Armed Forces, seeking to build a network of care for the nation's military members and their families, with a special emphasis on reserve members and families. The ministry is named for Barnabas, Paul's companion in the Bible. Barnabas, whose name means "son of encouragement," helped Paul in his missionary journey. You can read more about the conference in Reporter at http://reporter.lcms.org/pages/rpage.asp?NavID=19538. Back to top HONG KONG INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL SEEKS EDUCATORS The world-renowned Hong Kong International School (HKIS) is one of three LCMS international schools in Asia. It opened its doors in 1966 to 170 students. Since then, it has grown to more than 2,600 students who represent 40 nationalities. Currently, HKIS is seeking to fill 10 open educator positions for the 2012-13 school year. HKIS comprises four school divisions located on two campuses on the southern side of Hong Kong Island. The lower primary (pre-K to grade 2) and upper primary (grades 3-5) schools are situated on the original HKIS campus in Repulse Bay, while the middle and high schools are found in Tai Tam, overlooking Tai Tam Tuk. HKIS students are guided by a staff of 490 teachers, administrators and assistants who are amongst the best in the world; highly qualified and experienced, providing unparalleled qualities in teaching, guidance and care for their students. Consider joining the HKIS community! The positions open for the 2012-13 school year include: * Director of Educational Technology Services (a new administration position) * Counselor, Lower Primary * Physical Education Teacher, Lower Primary * Speech Language Specialist, Lower Primary * Classroom Teacher, Upper Primary * French/Spanish Language Teacher, Middle School * Learning Specialist, Middle School * Counselor, Middle School * Counselor, High School * Science Teacher, High School Interested candidates or those with questions about these positions can contact Jean Lau, the HKIS recruitment advisor, at jlau at hkis.edu.hk. More information about these positions and job descriptions are posted on the HKIS website www.hkis.edu.hk under 'Working at HKIS.' Back to top SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES IN POLAND Short-term Missionaries The Evangelical-Augsburg Church in Poland, through its Center for Mission and Evangelism (CME), is again requesting teams from the LCMS to come and help Polish congregations reach out to the lost and unchurched in their communities through English Bible Camps. This is the fourth year that LCMS congregations will partner with Polish Lutherans to host camps that share the message of Jesus with children. The English Bible Camp concept has become so popular that we are not able to send teams to all of the churches that request them. This year, we hope to send at least 10 teams to serve. Will you join the many Lutheran congregations who now have participated in this ministry and witnessed first-hand what God is doing in Poland? Short-term Mission Team Coordinator Your service here will be an extension of the mission efforts of the Center for Mission Evangelism (CME, a ministry of the Polish Lutheran church). There will be potential opportunities for cooperation with a youth association in your assigned city. Assisting with the communications and preparations for the 2012 Poland mission summer camps will be the main focus of your service. Additionally, you will have opportunities to teach evening English-as-a-Foreign-Language courses, serve as native speakers in local schools and participate in CME events throughout Poland. For more information, contact the Office of International Mission at 888-843-5267 or mission.recruitment at lcms.org. To learn about how you can serve the Lord around the world, visit http://servenow.lcms.org. Back to top CONCORDIA'S CENTER FOR LITURGICAL ARTS FEATURED AT INTERNATIONAL CENTER A photographic exhibit of artwork from around the country created by the Center for Liturgical Art at Concordia University, Nebraska in now on display in the Wolfram Gallery at The Lutheran Church--Missouri Synod International Center in St. Louis. Photos of more than thirty works can be seen until mid-June. Stained glass windows, mosaics, altars, crosses and entire worship spaces shown in the exhibit exemplify a range of pieces made between the CLA's inception in 2004 to the present. Every piece of art made by the CLA is hand-crafted and made in collaboration with church pastors and congregation members. The aim is always to create high-quality artwork filled with meaning and strong theology. The exhibit is free and open to the public from 7 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. Visitors are encouraged to call ahead for an appointment at 800-248-1930. The LCMS International Center is located at 1333 S. Kirkwood Rd, St. Louis, Missouri 63112. The CLA seeks to encourage and assist the LCMS in its ministry by promoting the use of visual arts in worship and providing educational outreach programs, artistic designs, and production of resources. Any congregation looking for help in these areas is encouraged to contact the CLA at 402-643-7431. Back to top MIDWEEK OUTREACH IDEAS Throughout the year, many congregations work hard to put on successful midweek programs. While many churches run excellent midweek Christian education programs, some congregations have found ways to utilize them in their outreach efforts. LCMS Rural & Small Town Mission had the chance to visit with some rural churches in Kansas that have recognized the outreach possibilities and have been doing exciting things with their Midweek programs. They want to pass these great ideas along to you. At Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Sylvan Grove, Kan., Rev. Phil Augustine shared that they have an after school midweek program each Wednesday from 3:45- 5:30 p.m. Their theme this year is Ambassadors for Christ Midweek. The congregation has partnered with the local school district to bus children to the church door after school each week. He's pleased their numbers have grown to 36 children from grades 1-6. That's pretty impressive considering only 8 of those children are members of the church! After the children are served a snack, two teachers go through memory work and lessons. There is a worship time and occasionally they do craft projects which they give to the residents of a local nursing home. A resource they have found useful is, My First Catechism from Concordia Publishing House (www.cph.org). Rev. Matt Schneider, Lincoln, Kan., is also very excited about the commitment his dual parish made to run a strong midweek program. He finds that while the parishes are growing through both youth and adult confirmations, this doesn't always translate to growing numbers at worship. Rather than let this get him down, Pastor Schneider asks how he can use the midweek program to build closer relationships and bring those who are willing to attend on Wednesday nights to church on Sunday mornings. The congregation has begun hosting occasional breakfasts on Sunday mornings before the worship service where the children from the midweek program sing. Afterward they provide a fun activity, such as skating, for the children. Kansas District Executive Mark Frith shared that many congregations find it helpful to incorporate a meal into their midweek programs. Some churches are using this mealtime as an opportunity to teach table manners. Providing transportation for participants has proven beneficial as well. A number of congregations have found it very helpful to focus on strengthening families. Their midweek activities intentionally keep families together rather than separating them. Consider these great ideas: have family groups sit together at midweek meals or teach whole families how to do family devotions as an activity rather than dividing into groups by age. Think outside the box about what you can do to keep your families together when they are at the church for midweek. LCMS Rural & Small Town Mission supports and encourages rural and small town congregations in engaging their communities and growing together in Christ through Word and Sacrament. If you have a good idea for outreach or a story you'd like to share with them so they can share it with others, please contact them at 888-463-5127 or ruralmission at spife.org. Learn more about their ministry at www.spife.org or by calling them anytime. Back to top Blessings, Nichole Hetz Nebraska District LCMS Director of Communications 1-888-643-2961, ext. 1003 * 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: 55021 bytes Desc: not available URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... 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Name: image001.gif Type: image/gif Size: 15699 bytes Desc: image001.gif URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image002.jpg Type: image/jpeg Size: 26988 bytes Desc: image002.jpg URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image003.jpg Type: image/jpeg Size: 3474 bytes Desc: image003.jpg URL: From distupd at lists.ndlcms.org Wed Feb 15 10:27:13 2012 From: distupd at lists.ndlcms.org (District Updates) Date: Wed, 15 Feb 2012 16:27:13 -0000 Subject: [DistUpd] February 15 Message-ID: [cid:image001.gif at 01CB6AEC.BDD881A0] February 15, 2012 In this issue: Greetings in the name of our Heavenly Father. Valentine's Day was yesterday, and most of us took the time and made the effort to find that special thing to give or do for our "sweetie" to let them know how much they mean to us. For most of us, coming up with something wasn't terribly difficult. What if Valentine's Day was focused on sharing something special with a stranger? What about putting thought into something extra-ordinary for that co-worker or neighbor who gets on your nerves? Why don't we have a holiday for that? Simply, probably because very few people would spend money or effort on cards, chocolates, or jewelry for strangers or for people they don't care to be around. However, God tells us we are not to treat each other as strangers, but as brothers and sisters in Christ. The writer of the letter to the Hebrews was inspired to write, "Both the one who makes men holy and those who are made holy are of the same family. So Jesus is not ashamed to call them brothers." (Heb. 2:11) We also read in 1 John 3:16 "This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers." As we approach the season of Lent we focus on Jesus, who was willing to leave Heaven and come to earth as a man to suffer and die in place of sinful humanity, and be raised again on Easter to give all people salvation and make all people His "brothers." If we remember that every person is a brother or sister of Christ bought with His blood, just as we are, might that make a difference in how we act toward them? Just because someone is a stranger or because we don't care for them, through the power of the Spirit we can make the effort to share something special with them not only on Valentine's Day, but everyday - the love of Christ. News from the Nebraska District ? District Pastor in Lutheran Witness ? 2010 Census Data Available for Your Community News from Nebraska Congregations ? Pastor's Periodicals Available ? Refuel and Recharge Your Children's Ministry Leaders News from The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod ? LCMS Rural and Small Town Mission ? LCMS to Offer Prison Ministry Conference ? Materials Available for Concordia Sunday News from our Ministry Partners ? Special Edition of The Lutheran Hour This Weekend ? Updated Mission Central Speaking Schedule ? Pre-Lenten Workshop Available Online ? The Secret to Living with Passion for Christ ? Register Your Students Now to Take an Online Mission Trip to Paraguay ? Uncover How Christianity Grew and Spread ? Camp Luther's Woodcutter Retreat Rescheduled ? Summer Opportunities to Visit the Seminaries ? Wheat Ridge Ministries' Now Accepting Congregation Health Ministry Grant Proposals DISTRICT PASTOR IN LUTHERAN WITNESS Rev. Joshua Lowe of Trinity, Blue Hill, was featured in the February 2012 issue of The Lutheran Witness in an article entitled "Pastoral Care in the Country." Take some time to read the article in the hard copy you receive or online at witness.lcms.org. Back to top 2010 CENSUS DATA AVAILABLE FOR YOUR COMMUNITY Are you curious about your community's demographics and how it might affect ministry efforts? MissionInsite, a free demographics program available to congregations in the Nebraska District, just released 2010 Census information containing results of the new American Community Survey. With this information you have access to all kinds of community data including racial/ethnic trends, population/household forecasts, average income trends, lifestyle preferences, religious practices, charitable contributions, social values, and so much more. Before launching new ministry efforts in 2012, take a few moments to check out this valuable resource made available to District congregations through the partnership of Lutheran Church Extension Fund. It may be just what you need to turn great ministry ideas into effective outreach to the community around you. For more information, contact Megan Schmidt at the District Office at megans at ndlcms.org or 888-643-2961, ext. 1011. Back to top PASTOR'S PERIODICALS AVAILABLE Retired pastor Rev. Ron Holling is clearing out his study and he has the following resources available to anyone who is willing to pick them up in Omaha: ? CTQ Jan 77-81 ? The Springfielder 71-76 ? CTM 69-74 For more information or to arrange pick-up, contact Pastor Holling at 402-670-0447. Back to top REFUEL AND RECHARGE YOUR CHILDREN'S MINISTRY LEADERS Children's ministry doesn't always get the attention it deserves, and children's ministry workers are often overwhelmed and undervalued. What they need is a chance to reFUEL! ReFUEL is a March 16-18 workshop at King of Kings, Omaha, for children's ministry workers. The weekend includes: * Practical workshop experiences with lots of discussion; * Soul-full spiritual refreshment through a variety of prayer experiences; * Fun and focused relationship building with like-minded leaders; * Insightful new ministry applications for social media. The cost of $150 includes most meals; lodging can be arranged in the homes of local church members to make it even more affordable. The event is sponsored by Kids Kount Publishing, which is a ministry arm of King of Kings. For complete details, check out the conference website (http://www.kidskountpublishing.com/reFUEL/). Back to top LCMS RURAL AND SMALL TOWN MISSION The primary focus of Rural and Small Town Mission (RSTM) is to support congregations in rural and small town settings in the work to which God has called them. RSTM recognizes that, while the work to which God has called congregations is the same, the context in which that work is carried out can be very different-even in rural America. Specifically, RSTM focuses on assisting: * Sole Rural Parishes * Dual and Multi-point Parishes * Large Rural Parishes * Leadership training LCMS Rural and Small Town Mission is based in Concordia, Missouri, but provides training and resources to called and lay leaders throughout the LCMS. In 2011, Rural Regional Mission Partnership retreats were offered in North Dakota, Minnesota, Iowa, Nebraska, Kansas and Missouri. Plans are underway for new retreats in 2012 in a number of districts. Rev. Dr. Lee Hagan serves as the interim director of LCMS Rural and Small Town Mission until a permanent director is called. He succeeds Dr. Ralph Geisler, who led Saint Paul Institute of Education, a ministry of Saint Paul Lutheran High School in Concordia, Missouri, into a partnership with LCMS World Mission to support rural congregations across the LCMS. Under the synodical restructuring approved by the 2010 LCMS Convention, Rural and Small Town Mission became a component of the LCMS Office of National Mission and operates today as a ministry of the LCMS. Recent years have seen the programs and work expand to allow Rural and Small Town Mission to assist and support more congregations and districts across the Synod. In 2012, the LCMS Office of National Mission plans to call the first full-time director of Rural and Small Town Mission for the LCMS. It is the hope that the coming months allow RSTM to continue to grow and that Christ, the Lord of the Church, would richly bless our "life together." If you would like additional information, please contact program coordinator, Amy Gerdts by email at amy.gerdts at lcms.org or by calling 1-888-463-5127. Back to top LCMS TO OFFER PRISON MINISTRY CONFERENCE (from Reporter Online) The Rev. Dr. Ken Klaus, speaker emeritus of "The Lutheran Hour" radio program, will be the keynote speaker at the second synodwide "Training and Equipping Conference for Prison and Jail Ministry" to be held Sept. 29-30 in St. Louis, at the Crowne Plaza: St. Louis Airport hotel. The conference, according to the Rev. John Fale, interim co-executive director of the LCMS Office of International Mission, is designed to acquaint individuals (pastors and laity) or congregations that desire or are doing prison and jail ministry "with proven models of pastoral and lay prison and jail visitation and to equip them to return to their districts to train others interested in establishing or supporting visitation programs." The scheduling and planning of the conference is in response to Res. 6-05, "To Encourage Continued Emphasis on Prison and Jail Ministry," that delegates passed overwhelmingly at the 2010 LCMS Regular Convention. One of that resolution's resolves states in part "that the Synod sponsor another synodwide prison and jail ministry conference prior to the next LCMS convention." The first synodwide training and equipping conference for prison and jail ministry was held in 2005, hosted by LCMS World Relief and Human Care and the Southern Illinois District (SID) with a grant from the Lutheran Women's Missionary League (LWML). The LWML has provided another grant for the upcoming conference, which the SID has offered to plan and host. For more information about the conference, contact Rev. Jeffery Nehrt at nehrtj at csl.edu or 618-292-4392. Conference details and a registration form will be available at www.sidlcms.org/prisonministry.aspx in March. Learn more on the Reporter Online webpage at http://reporter.lcms.org/pages/rpage.asp?NavID=19646. Back to top MATERIALS AVAILABLE FOR CONCORDIA SUNDAY (from Reporter Online) Free materials are available from the Concordia University System (CUS) to celebrate "Concordia Sunday," a recognition of the 148-year history of the Synod's 10 universities and colleges. The date of April 29 is suggested, but congregations may select any Sunday for the annual observance. Concordia Sunday provides an opportunity to celebrate the Synod's colleges and universities that prepare individuals for secular and church careers, including pastors, teachers, directors of Christian education, directors of Christian outreach, deaconesses, lay ministers, directors of family life ministry and directors of parish music. The Concordia campuses "assist individuals to develop and mature in a Christian environment where Jesus Christ is the central focus of their education," according to a CUS news release. New materials for this year's observance include prayers for teachers and students, "talking points" for a sermon, and a children's sermon. These and the other materials (brochures, bulletin inserts, liturgies, suggested hymns and activities) may be downloaded free at www.lcms.org/concordiasunday. Larger quantities may be ordered by calling 800-248-1930, ext. 1252, or via e-mail at cus.info at lcms.org. There is no charge for shipping. Orders also may be placed via an order form that was mailed to each LCMS congregation in January. With an enrollment of more than 28,000 students, the 10 schools of the Concordia University System offer 150 undergraduate and 60 graduate programs ranging from accounting to theology. For the 12th consecutive year, all the schools are included in the national rankings for "America's Best Colleges" by U.S. News & World Report. Back to top SPECIAL EDITION OF THE LUTHERAN HOUR THIS WEEKEND Pastors and church offices, please share this information in your bulletin or announcements this weekend. The recent decision of the Health and Human Services Department that forces Catholic institutions to buy health insurance plans that provide birth control, including birth control products that cause abortion, has caused a lot of controversy. Rev. Greg Seltz, Speaker of The Lutheran Hour, will comment on this issue in a special edition of the Questions and Answers segment of The Lutheran Hour radio program the weekend of Feb. 18-19. Tune in to hear how God's Word guides us in a complicated situation like this. Check the online broadcast guide at www.lutheranhour.org to find an airing near you. Due to distribution limitations, not all U.S. stations airing The Lutheran Hour will be carrying this special edition (it will not be available in Canada). If the special Q & A is not available in your area, you can listen to the broadcast online or view a transcript of the special Q & A section at www.lutheranhour.org beginning on Feb. 19. Back to top UPDATED MISSION CENTRAL SPEAKING SCHEDULE The following special events are planned at Mission Central near Mapleton, Iowa. Gary Thies invites everyone to come and hear these wonderful folks talk about their work around the world. All speaking events are in the barn at Mission Central, and the newest additions to the speaking list are in red. For more information on Mission Central or on these special events, visit the Mission Central website at www.missioncentral.us. April 18, 1:30 and 7:00 p.m. - Michelle Cagnin, human care in Asia May 8, 1:00 and 7:00 p.m. - Rev. Bruce and Sarah Wall, Peru (daughter of Rev. Arnold and Tamra Jurchen of Goehner) May 22, 1:00 p.m. - Judy Newhouse, Hong Kong May 26, 1:00 p.m. - Robin McCoy, Bangkok, Thailand June 5, 7:00 p.m. - Al and Shirley Piepenbrink, Hong Kong June 23, 1:00 and 7:00 p.m. - Matt and DeeDee Wasmund, Korea July 7, 1:00 and 7:00 p.m. - Rev. Dr. Fungchatou Lo, Cambodia July 14, 1:00 and 7:00 p.m. - Sharon Owens, Macau July 21, 1:00 and 7:00 p.m. - Rev. Joel Scheiwe, Hong Kong August 11, 1:00 and 7:00 p.m. - Rev. Mark Eisold, Peru August 21, 1:30 p.m. - Josh Lange, Southern China Back to top PRE-LENTEN WORKSHOP AVAILABLE ONLINE The workshop series - "Seeing is Not Believing" - was developed specifically for church year B, the year of the Gospel of Mark. Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, faculty developed it in response to a request from pastors in the St. Louis regional area. A pre-Lenten workshop was held on the Concordia Seminary campus to present this material on January 20, 2012. Hence, the preparatory material here works best in conjunction with the videos provided with it. The workshop material includes a thorough introduction to Mark by James Voelz (which could be used throughout year B); sermon studies for Lent, Holy Week, and Easter; and worship resources for the same period. We call the sermons "studies" because they take various forms with the various authors: in some cases, manuscripts, in others outlines, in others notes, in others a combination. Regardless, there is enough material each week to easily develop a full sermon. Dr. Voelz describes the theme of Mark's Gospel as "Seeing and believing, but not seeing in order to believe, but believing in order to see. The Jewish leaders at the cross express it well-though wrongly: 'The Christ, the King of Israel, let him come down now from the cross, in order that we may see and believe.' But that is not what Jesus-and this gospel-will give to them or to anyone else. Mark gives us a picture of Jesus that is unsettling and uncomfortable: he is the Son of God (1:11) but does not know who touched him (5:30); he engages in a ministry of healing (1:34) but he gets upset with those whom he heals (1:43). Yet this gospel also tells and shows us that Jesus' WORD is ever sure. As the young man says at the tomb on Easter morning (16:7), when there is no vision of the risen Christ: 'He is going before you into Galilee. There you will see him, just as he told you' (cf. 14:28). We are invited to believe that word, and when we do, then we will truly see." This workshop uses Mark's Passion as the source and backdrop for a full Lenten midweek series, exploring the rich themes of Mark's Passion to discover anew the person of Jesus Christ and what it means to believe in him. Once downloaded, the print material includes instructions for accessing, viewing, and downloading the workshop videos. Top of Form Price: $49.95 from the Concordia Seminary Online Store: https://store.csl.edu/sermon-series/seeing-is-not-believing/. Bottom of Form Back to top THE SECRET TO LIVING WITH PASSION FOR CHRIST Today, the $11 plus billion dollar self-help industry offers countless quick-fixes for life's obstacles. But what happens on any given day when you feel drained or discouraged and the tricks don't work? What is the remedy to overcome challenges in passionate living? In Heartbeat!, author Dr. Stephen J. Carter contends that living with passion for Christ requires a heart transplant. Through powerful stories from the Bible and today's world, Carter guides readers on a journey of discovering the secret to passionate Christian living in personal life, family life, church, community, work, and our world. The transplant occurs when God's heart beats in us with His passion for the world. "There is no self-help book or insider's guide that can teach you how to live with passion for Christ. No simple four-step process or eight rules for passionate living can give you all the answers you need to succeed. Only God can unlock the secret," Carter says. Heartbeat! radiates hope and promise, but also presents a chilling reality factor that distinguishes passions that move us forward to seek God from ungodly ones that drain and set us back. The six-part resource takes readers on a journey through: * Seeking Godly passion in our lives * Pursing passions that drain and lead to bondage * Confessing ungodly pursuits * Discovering the Word of Christ * Living deeply in the Word of Christ * Living God's passion for the world Your Heartbeat! Adventure is the final chapter and uses Colossians 1:27 to encourage readers to embark upon their own "journey of the heart" in Christ. "Ultimately, I hope that readers, by God's grace, develop an unquenchable thirst for the Word of Christ in a dry and arid 21st century culture so that their spiritual heart beats consistently with God's passion for the world," Carter says. To order your copy of the book, visit cph.org or call 1-800-325-3040. Back to top REGISTER YOUR STUDENTS NOW TO TAKE AN ONLINE MISSION TRIP TO PARAGUAY Jesus Christ's command to "make disciples of all nations" has always involved a "GO!" That is, GOING has always been part of sharing the Gospel with a world that needs Him. But what if a different kind of GO were possible-one that could involve children in real overseas outreach? Lutheran Hour Ministries is redefining the way we GO and make disciples. How? During National Lutheran Schools Week, March 5-9, 2012, Lutheran Hour Ministries invites you to involve the children of your school in a week-long virtual mission trip to Paraguay! Using both recorded and live video transmitted over the Internet, Lutheran Hour Ministries will present an opportunity for children to experience a day in the life of a child in Paraguay and learn about the outreach programs of LHM's ministry center there. This opportunity will allow students to learn about people in a different culture, how God's Word is being shared and spread among them and how their involvement through prayer and financial support can help "make disciples of all nations!" Multi-level curriculum materials and other resources will also be available to enrich your students' experience and set their mission hearts on fire! Get started now by registering your class as soon as possible at www.lhm.org/onlinemissiontrips. For more information, take a look at the short promotional video posted on the website or contact Chris Myers at 314-317-4268 or christine.myers at lhm.org. Back to top UNCOVER HOW CHRISTIANITY GREW AND SPREAD Named the "best single-volume church history textbook" and "mega-impressive," Concordia Publishing's The Church From Age to Age provides historical insight to scholars, students, pastors, and families. The Church from Age to Age examines key historic events from the time of the apostles through today. Informative and clearly written, readers of all ages will find the answers to the who, why, and how behind the current state of Christianity the world over. Maps, readings from primary sources, and an extensive bibliography, index, and timeline make this a complete one-volume resource for the classroom and for home. Dr. Nathan A. Finn, Associate Professor of Historical Theology at Southeaster Baptist Theological Seminary in Wake Forest noted that as a specialist in modern church history, "I'm especially thankful the contributors give considerable treatment to post-1914 persons and events, including the expansion and development of Christianity in the non-Western world." Incoming reports say that Concordia University, Ann Arbor students recently lined up in the bookstore to purchase their copy and Solid Ground Newsletter listed the book as a recommended resource. In his blog, Rev. William Weedon of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Hamel, IL says that he is "MEGA impressed. . . . This volume is exceedingly well written." To order your copy of the book, visit cph.org or call 1-800-325-3040. Back to top CAMP LUTHER'S WOODCUTTER RETREAT RESCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEKEND The Woodcutter's Retreat at Camp Luther that was rescheduled for this weekend, February 17-18, has been cancelled. Instead of rescheduling, the woodcutter's retreat will be held in conjunction with the work weekend May 25-26. More information Camp Luther's Work and Woodcutter's Weekend on May 25-26 will be available on the Camp Luther website soon at www.campluther.org. Back to top SUMMER OPPORTUNITIES TO VISIT THE SEMINARIES Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne For two weeks each summer, high school-aged men of The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod are offered the opportunity to delve deeper into their faith, enjoy the seminary experience, and make friendships that will last a lifetime while attending Christ Academy-High School. This year's event takes place June 17-30, 2012, on the campus of Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne. Space is limited, so be sure to get your registration in now. Information concerning the registration process may be found at www.ctsfw.edu/ChristAcademy. Young men attending the academy will have the opportunity to become part of the CTS community as they worship in Kramer Chapel and learn in our classrooms. Topics to be discussed this year include: Demonology: Satan's Biography-Rev. John Dreyer; Job: Faithful Man in the Midst of Suffering-Rev. Neil Ray; The Theology of St. Paul for Today-Dr. Peter Scaer; Sin in the Lutheran Confessions-Dr. Naomichi Masaki; Luther's Letters of Spiritual Counsel-Prof. John Pless; The Problem of Evil, and a Christian Response-Rev. Andrew Yeager. In addition to the great theology, there will be time for fun as we will go to Cedar Point and a TinCaps Baseball game! If you know of a young man who may be interested in this opportunity please contact Christ Academy Student Director, Jared DeBlieck at Jared.DeBlieck at ctsfw.edu or at 260-452-3140. Concordia Seminary, St. Louis On June 23-28, Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, will host a weeklong visitation event in June for high school youth called Vocatio. The event is designed to identify, inform, and encourage youth with respect to church work vocations. Vocatio is a fun opportunity for high school youth entering grades 9, 10, 11, and 12. This five day retreat on Concordia Seminary's campus encourages participants to find God's calling for their lives through studying theology, learning from Seminary professors, and engaging in thoughtful conversation together. Activities during Vocatio will focus on the Bible verse, "Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children." (Ephesians 5:1) Youth will attend daily chapel services and Sunday morning worship. They will have the opportunity to participate in a servant event. Past events have included work at St. Louis area congregations and the Saxon Lutheran Memorial. They will also have the opportunity to attend an event in the St. Louis area such as a St. Louis Cardinals' game or the Muny outdoor musical theater. A $150 registration fee to attend Vocatio is the only charge for youth, in addition to travel costs. All activities, meals during the event, and on-campus lodging are provided at no cost to participants. Scholarships are available to ensure that travel costs do not prevent youth from attending. The registration deadline is June 1, 2012. For more information on Vocatio, or to request a registration form, contact the Admissions Office, Concordia Seminary, 801 Seminary Place, St. Louis, MO 63105; admissions at csl.edu; 1-800-822-9545. To register online, visit the Seminary's website at www.csl.edu. Back to top WHEAT RIDGE MINISTRIES' NOW ACCEPTING CONGREGATION HEALTH MINISTRY GRANT PROPOSALS Wheat Ridge Ministries invites and encourages Lutheran congregations to submit proposals for its Congregation Health Ministry (CHM) Grant Program. The CHM Grant Program enables ministry leaders to move inspired whole person health and wellness ideas into action within congregations through $2,000 matching grants. These one-year grants for new and innovative health ministry programs are open to Lutheran congregations and organizations they partner with to become centers of health and hope in their community. Quality proposals focusing on ministry to returning military and their families will receive preference in the 2012 Congregational Health Ministry grant cycle. This preference will not exclude other quality proposals from consideration. The CHM Grant Program will not fund or sponsor established, existing health ministry programs. The amount granted by Wheat Ridge must be matched dollar for dollar by the congregation. Grant proposals are due by April 16, 2012 with funds to be distributed by June 15, 2012. Application materials are available for download on the Wheat Ridge website, http://www.wheatridge.org/chmgrants. For questions about the Congregation Health Ministry Grant Program, contact Wheat Ridge Ministries by email at grants at wheatridge.org or by phone at 800-762-6748. Wheat Ridge Ministries is a nonprofit organization that helps a variety of health and human care initiatives get off the ground by providing the initial funding and support they need to thrive. Our efforts are focused on improving the health of the whole person by addressing wellness of body, mind, and spirit. Currently, more than 70 ministries around the world are receiving assistance through Wheat Ridge. To learn more, visit our website at www.wheatridge.org. Back to top Blessings, Nichole Hetz Nebraska District LCMS Director of Communications 1-888-643-2961, ext. 1003 * 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: 82676 bytes Desc: not available URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image006.jpg Type: image/jpeg Size: 3681 bytes Desc: image006.jpg URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image008.jpg Type: image/jpeg Size: 5010 bytes Desc: image008.jpg URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image005.jpg Type: image/jpeg Size: 5010 bytes Desc: image005.jpg URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image003.jpg Type: image/jpeg Size: 3681 bytes Desc: image003.jpg URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image001.gif Type: image/gif Size: 15699 bytes Desc: image001.gif URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image006.jpg Type: image/jpeg Size: 3681 bytes Desc: image006.jpg URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image003.jpg Type: image/jpeg Size: 3681 bytes Desc: image003.jpg URL: From distupd at lists.ndlcms.org Wed Feb 22 11:23:26 2012 From: distupd at lists.ndlcms.org (District Updates) Date: Wed, 22 Feb 2012 17:23:26 -0000 Subject: [DistUpd] February 22 Message-ID: [cid:image001.gif at 01CCF154.08234DA0] February 22, 2012 In this issue: Greetings this Ash Wednesday in the name of our merciful God who chose to save us sinners through His Son. As we enter this season of Lent and begin 40 days of reflection and repentance, may we remember the choice our loving God made to rescue us "while we were still sinners." What great news to share with those we invite to journey with us to His cross. Thank you to all the congregations and individuals who submitted information for this week's Update. Items to share are always welcome and may be emailed to communications at ndlcms.org. News from the Nebraska District ? Important Convention Delegate Information Form Deadline News from Nebraska Congregations ? In the News: Oscar the Dog and Pies to the Face News from The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod ? LCMS Rural and Small Town National Conference ? Opportunity to Serve in Hong Kong News from our Ministry Partners ? Concordia Chicago Wind Symphony to Perform in Lincoln ? Law Enforcement Chaplaincy Workshop ? Lands of Luther Tour with Seminary President IMPORTANT CONVENTION DELEGATE INFORMATION FORM DEADLINE Congregations of the Nebraska District that wish to have delegates seated at Convention and eligible to vote in both the Nebraska District elections and the 2013 election of the LCMS president MUST return a completed Voting Delegate Information Form, including the signatures of at least two congregational officers. The deadline for returning this form to the District Office was January 31, and congregations that have not returned their form have been given until March 1 to do so. These congregations were mailed a reminder postcard two weeks ago. At this time, more the 20% of Nebraska congregations have NOT returned their forms. Delegates not on file by March 1 may not be on the mailing list for the Convention Workbook or Convention registration materials. Congregations that are not sure about the status of their delegates are encouraged to ask their pastor or church office staff. If confusion remains, the District Office may be contacted at 888-643-2961, ext. 1003, or nicholeh at ndlcms.org to verify receipt of the form. Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter. Back to top IN THE NEWS: OSCAR THE DOG AND PIES TO THE FACE Oscar the Dog Oscar smelled terrible. He hadn't had a bath in a long time and his breath was foul. His teeth were very dirty and gums infected - which can happen to dachshunds when their teeth aren't cleaned on a regular basis. If left long enough, the infection can go systemic and even cause death. Oscar was near that point when the Rev. Tim Gierke saw him at the humane society. Read more about Oscar and the message of redemption he helped Rev. Gierke tell in the Fremont Tribune article at: http://fremonttribune.com/promo/homepage/spritual-spinach-dog-tale-provides-lessons-in-redemption-love-of/article_fef2747a-5983-11e1-82c8-001871e3ce6c.html. Pies in the Face Nearly 37 times, Mayor Jay Vavricek, Peace Lutheran Church Assistant Pastor Mike Reiners and Director of Christian Education Carl Eliason had plates of whipped cream smeared into their faces. Read more about the fundraiser that led to the festivities, and see a video, on the Grand Island Independent website: http://www.theindependent.com/news/local/mayor-school-officials-get-pies-in-the-face/article_3aabbbc8-5850-11e1-bd72-0019bb2963f4.html. Back to top LCMS RURAL AND SMALL TOWN NATIONAL CONFERENCE LCMS Rural and Small Town Mission is pleased to announce the dates for the 2012 LCMS National Rural and Small Town Conference. It will take place at King's Pointe Resort in Storm Lake, Iowa (80 miles east of Sioux City) on November 1-3. They are also excited to announce that LCMS President Matthew Harrison will be one of the featured speakers for the event. Rural and Small Town Mission will provide more information about specifics for the conference in the months ahead. Mark your calendar now and plan to attend the conference designed to be a blessing and source of encouragement. Back to top OPPORTUNITY TO SERVE IN HONG KONG The Lutheran Church-Hong Kong Synod (LCHKS) is committed to Lutheran education as a means of outreach to the people of Hong Kong. The LCHKS has approximately 20 Lutheran schools. These are vital parts of the LCHKS' mission and outreach strategy because 80% of the students who study in LCHKS schools are not Christian. This reality gives LCMS teams an important opportunity to share the love of Christ through the relationships they will build teaching English, participating in after-school activities and visiting students' homes. Your short-term team will have an active role in sharing your faith directly with students and teachers. However, you will also have a long-term impact by helping the schools maintain a positive and impressive presence in their communities, which increases enrollment. A team from your congregation or organization will be blessed by this opportunity and will be a blessing. Please consider serving in Hong Kong this year! For more information, contact the Office of International Mission at 888-843-5267 or mission.recruitment at lcms.org. To learn about how you can serve the Lord around the world, visit http://servenow.lcms.org. Back to top CONCORDIA CHICAGO WIND SYMPHONY TO PERFORM IN LINCOLN Concordia Chicago Wind Symphony will perform at Christ Lutheran Church, 4325 Sumner St. in Lincoln, Nebraska, on Sunday evening, March 4, 2012, at 7 p.m. as part of their spring concert tour. This symphony is directed by Richard Fischer, professor of music at Concordia Chicago. A variety of music in many forms and styles will make this event a pleasure for everyone. Admission is free; however a free-will offering will be received. For more information, contact Bob Ewell at Christ Lutheran, 402-483-7774, ext. 106, or rewell at christlutheranchurch.org. Back to top LAW ENFORCEMENT CHAPLAINCY WORKSHOP Concordia Seminary, together with Peace Officer Ministries, Inc. (POM), will host "Christian Law Enforcement Chaplaincy-Theology and Practice," on May 21-25 on the Seminary campus. The workshop offers unique accredited training for chaplains, peace officers, and pastors, focusing on effective Christian ministry to and through law enforcement. Key principles that participants can expect to take away with them after attending the workshop include: understanding law enforcement as vocation (God's calling); distinguishing and properly applying Law and Gospel and God's Two Kingdoms within a law enforcement context; addressing practical, legal, historical, cultural and missiological considerations; employing Christian stress management and officer spiritual survival strategies; and identifying characteristics of a competent Christian chaplain. The Department of Homeland Security Course Component fulfills DHS Guidelines for First Responders. Rev. Frank Ruffatto, executive director and chaplain of POM, will serve as the introductory speaker on Monday morning. Other presenters include Stephanie Abernethy, Michael Dahmer, Chief Daniel Dusseau, Steve Gielda, Chief William Jones, Rev. Steven Lee, Dr. Thomas Mijares, Chad Montgomery, Trisha Norket, and Steven Ruffatto. Beginning in 2012, "tracks" have been created for prior attendees to build upon previous training and certifications. "Track 2" attendees will only be required to attend from Tuesday morning through Thursday morning. A minimum of 10 attendees must be registered for the Track 2 class to take place. Registration cost is $410 for first time attendees and $270 for returning attendees. Registration costs include on-campus meals, materials, and CEUs. Limited on-campus housing is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Housing is dormitory style with shared bathrooms and showers. Rooms are on the second floor and are not handicapped accessible. Rates are $40 per night for single or couple and $25 per night for a shared room. Deadline for registration is May 7. No walk-ins will be accepted. For more information including a breakdown of fees for all tracks, contact the office of continuing education and parish services at 314-505-7486 or ce at csl.edu; or visit the Seminary's website at www.csl.edu for a downloadable brochure. Back to top LANDS OF LUTHER TOUR WITH SEMINARY PRESIDENT If you are looking for an opportunity to learn more about Martin Luther and the formation of the Lutheran Church, there is no better way than to travel to Germany, November 26-December 6, 2012, with Concordia Theological Seminary President, Dr. Lawrence R. Rast Jr. as your host. CTS Tours is pleased to offer the Lands of Luther Tour where travelers will have the opportunity to go to Wittenberg, where Luther nailed the 95 Theses to the door of the Castle Church; Erfurt, where he went to school and became a monk; the Wartburg Castle, where he lived in disguise and translated the New Testament into German; Eisleben, where Luther was born and died; as well as other important Reformation sites. In addition, the tour will also go to the Rhine River Valley and visit Dresden, famous for its china and fine art, and Leipzig, where Johann Sebastian Bach is buried. There will also be stops in Berlin and Munich, two of the world's great cities and wonderful places to visit, shop, and enjoy German cuisine. While in Munich there will also be the opportunity to visit the Christkindl Market. The 11-day trip includes round-trip airfare from Chicago; accommodations at first class/select hotels; comprehensive sightseeing throughout, including entrance fees; services of a professional tour director; transfers by private motorcoach including porterage; automatic $100,000 flight insurance policy (subject to policy terms and limitations) and all hotel service charges and local taxes. Cost for the tour package is $2,479/per person (not including tips, airline taxes and fuel surcharge). For additional information go to www.ctsfw.edu/CTSTours, e-mail CTSTours at ctsfw.edu or phone 877-287-4338. Back to top Blessings on your Lenten journey, Nichole Hetz Nebraska District LCMS Director of Communications 1-888-643-2961, ext. 1003 * 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: 38189 bytes Desc: not available URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image006.jpg Type: image/jpeg Size: 3681 bytes Desc: image006.jpg URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image008.jpg Type: image/jpeg Size: 5010 bytes Desc: image008.jpg URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image005.jpg Type: image/jpeg Size: 5010 bytes Desc: image005.jpg URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image003.jpg Type: image/jpeg Size: 3681 bytes Desc: image003.jpg URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image006.jpg Type: image/jpeg Size: 3681 bytes Desc: image006.jpg URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image003.jpg Type: image/jpeg Size: 3681 bytes Desc: image003.jpg URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image001.gif Type: image/gif Size: 15699 bytes Desc: image001.gif URL: From distupd at lists.ndlcms.org Wed Feb 29 11:48:16 2012 From: distupd at lists.ndlcms.org (District Updates) Date: Wed, 29 Feb 2012 17:48:16 -0000 Subject: [DistUpd] February 29 Message-ID: [cid:image001.gif at 01CCF6D7.C69903A0] February 29, 2012 In this issue: "My heart leaps for joy and I will give thanks to him in song." (Psalm 28:7b) Today is Leap Day, that "extra" day we get once every four years to keep the calendar aligned with the earth's revolutions around the Sun. Just like the question people like to ask at the end of daylight savings time each year, I wonder what we will do with an "extra" day in February this year. While anyone over ten years old realizes this isn't really an extra day, it could serve us well to consider it as such. Just for fun I did a quick Google search for "What to do on Leap Day?" and there wasn't much of anything useful that popped up. The one idea that struck me was the suggestion for businesses "to do something different than what they've always done before" to serve their customers. Their goal was still the same: to serve their customers and offer their products in the best way possible, but this was the day they were urged to think about doing it in a different way. As I thought about that, I wondered if it applied beyond businesses. What about in our personal relationships? Is there someone we should approach in a different way? Is there someone to whom we can show the love of Christ? Is there a way to "leap for joy and give thanks to God" in a way the world around us can see? Is today the day we open our eyes to see the opportunities God is giving us to share His mercy and grace with those around us? As we move through Leap Day, may the Lord strengthen us to be His light and salt in our families and communities, today and every day. Let's "leap" to it! News from the Nebraska District ? Prayer Requests News from Nebraska Congregations ? Peace, Grand Island Dedication Celebration ? Choir Robes Available News from The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod ? Overseas Service Opportunities News from our Ministry Partners ? Grace Place Retreat Opening for Nebraska Couple ? CPH Offers "Amazing Desert Journey" for VBS PRAYER REQUESTS Family of Rev. John Emslie, Jr. - We lift up in prayer the family of Rev. John Emslie, Jr. of Trinity, Blair, who was suddenly called home to heaven last Sunday, February 26. His funeral is planned for this Sunday, March 3, at 2:00 p.m. Please remember the Emslie family and the family of Trinity in your prayers as they mourn this sudden and shocking loss. We pray that the Lord will grant them comfort and peace at this time. Back to top PEACE, GRAND ISLAND DEDICATION CELEBRATION March 18 is the official Dedication Day for the new addition at Peace Lutheran in Grand Island (1710 N. North Road). Worship services at 8:00 and 10:35 will be held in the upgraded Life Center that day. Pastor Steve Wagner, director of the Pastoral Leadership Institute in Dallas, TX will be the guest speaker in the morning. There will then be a catered meal followed by an afternoon Dedication Service. Former senior pastor of 23 years, Bill Voelker, will be the guest speaker for this event. The theme for the day is "Opening New Doors" - for the facility, for guests and members who use the facility, for present and future ministries in the facility, as well as the community and beyond as Peace strives to "share Christ's love with each other and the world." The $2.4 million addition to their campus included adding 10,000 sq. ft. of new space and upgrading much of the existing facility. Upgrades include paving for additional parking, new paint and carpet in much of the facility, a fire sprinkler system, and nearly doubling the size of the Life Center/gym, as well as lighting and audio/visual upgrades. The new space also provides two new bathrooms, an additional classroom and workroom for preschool, and a large amount of storage. Another very important addition is a spacious and inviting gathering area complete with a coffee bar, TV monitors, tables, chairs and couches. This is a multi-purpose "kick back and relax area" where folks can connect and build relationships in a very comfortable setting. Everyone is invited to join the members of Peace for a day of celebration and dedication on March 18. Back to top CHOIR ROBES AVAILABLE The congregation of Zion, Tobias, has 19 women's choir robes and 14 men's choir robes to be given away. They are black in color and the women's robes have a white collar. Anyone wanting more information can email Pauline at ln41719 at windstream.net. Back to top OVERSEAS SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES Poland The Evangelical Church of the Augsburg Confession in Poland, through its Center for Mission and Evangelism, is again requesting teams from the LCMS to come and help them reach out to the lost and unchurched in their communities through English Bible Camps. This is the fourth year that LCMS congregations will partner with Polish Lutherans to host camps that share the message of Jesus with children. The English Bible Camp concept has become so popular that there are not enough teams available for all of the churches that request them. This year the hope is to send at least 10 teams to serve. Consider joining the many Lutheran congregations who now have participated and witnessed first-hand what God is doing in Poland. Macau Concordia English Center in Macau and its other locations are requesting teams of short-term missionaries to serve. Teams will lead English-as-a-Foreign Language (EFL) classes for the community and for students at the English centers. Teams will also serve the English Center by helping with advertising. Participation in this trip will allow individuals to engage in direct evangelism through acts of service and face-to-face witnessing opportunities. Participation will also allow individuals to be a part of building sustainable communities of faith in Macau and surrounding areas. Cultural experiences will include visiting historic sites and meeting local Christians. Please consider serving the people in Asia through this EFL outreach team. For more information, contact the Office of International Mission at 888-843-5267 or mission.recruitment at lcms.org. To learn about how you can serve the Lord around the world, visit http://servenow.lcms.org. Back to top GRACE PLACE RETREAT OPENING FOR NEBRASKA COUPLE Grace Place is holding one more spot for a couple from Nebraska on the Grace Place at Aspen Retreat to be held Monday, June 25 through Friday, June 29, 2012, at the Stonebridge Inn, Snowmass, Colorado. If you visit the retreat registration site, you will see this retreat is currently at waiting-list only. The response from around the country has been enormous. They want one more couple from the Nebraska District, so please call the Grace Place Ministries office directly at 314-842-3077 and talk to Patti Allen, and she will help you to register for this terrific retreat week. If you are a single church worker from Nebraska, they do have several spots open for the Single Church Worker Retreat that will be held the week before, June 18-22, 2012, also at the Stonebridge Inn. You may register for this retreat by clicking here. Back to top CPH OFFERS "AMAZING DESERT JOURNEY" FOR VBS [cid:image004.jpg at 01CCF6D7.C69903A0]Concordia Publishing House is offering an all-inclusive Starter Kit for its 2012 vacation Bible school (VBS) program titled "Amazing Desert Journey." With the theme "Where Jesus Leads Us Home," the new VBS materials provide a backdrop for a clear presentation of the Gospel message through the contrasting imagery of the desert landscape and the lush oasis. The program is designed to help children understand that their lives in this world are refreshed by God's Word in the oasis of His church, while Jesus is leading them on their journey to their heavenly home. CPH VBS Editor Pam Nummela encourages congregations to "give your students a VBS with purpose! 'Amazing Desert Journey' has a real theme right out of the Bible that allows kids to connect our real Jesus with real life." The Starter Kit ($129.99, item no. 321243WEB) includes a Director Guide, a Preschool Leader Guide (both with CDs), a publicity sample pack, and materials for openings & closings (with Opening Skit DVD), storytelling, music, Bible challenges, crafts, snacks and games. Also included are recruitment tools and leader job descriptions, as well as craft samples. The Passalong CD ($4.99, item no. 321285WEB) contains all of the VBS songs -- including the Preschool and Bible Memory Verse songs -- that children can take home after the program has ended. The 2012 VBS focuses on The Lord's Prayer, with songs, activities and lessons woven into each petition of the prayer. Daily memory verses reinforce the elements of the prayer so that young participants who aren't familiar with The Lord's Prayer can learn it. CPH encourages congregations that use the program to forward their VBS offerings to the LCMS Project: Clean Water for well-digging and water-purification projects around the world. Learn more about the project at www.lcms.org/vbs. To order the "Amazing Desert Journey" Starter Kit and for more information, visit www.cph.org/vbs or call CPH at 800-325-3040. Prices quoted do not include shipping charges. Back to top Lenten blessings, Nichole Hetz Nebraska District LCMS Director of Communications 1-888-643-2961, ext. 1003 * nicholeh at ndlcms.org * www.ndlcms.org * Please Note: The inclusion of items in the Update from outside sources is for informational purposes only. 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