o f f i c e @ z i o n b u f f a l o . o r g ( 7 6 3 ) 6 8 2 - 1 2 4 5 w w w . z i o n b u f f a l o . o r g

ZION LUTHERAN CHURCH • BUFFALO, MN JUNE 2009

Photo by Anita Bazan

2 fyi

Prayer Requests

Call the church office at 763.682.1245 or visit www.zionbuffalo.org/prayers with your prayer requests. If you want a pastoral visit or would like to be included in pastoral prayers during worship, please use a yellow pew card, web form, or call the church office.

Address, Phone & Email Corrections

Zion maintains a database of all its members. If you have had any changes to your address, phone number, marital status, etc. please contact Angela with your name, phone number and the changes that need to be made.

If You Are Ill

Hospitals no longer notify churches when their members are admitted for care. Call 763.682.1245, and let us know so we can support you with prayer and with presence.

Publishing Deadlines

Weekly Bulletin: Thursday Noon

Newsletter: Monday 6/15 Noon

If you would like to contribute to the church newsletter please send your submissions to Angela in the church office or abengtson@zionbuffalo.org.

Zion seeks to share

Christ’s word,

strengthen faith and

serve those in need.

Sunday Worship Times

8:30 am Traditional Worship in the Sanctuary & nursery 9:45 am Family Express in Trinity Hall 10:30 am Jubilee Worship in the Sanctuary & nursery

Contact Us

Email office@zionbuffalo.org Online www.zionbuffalo.org Office Hours Monday-Friday 8:00am-5:00pm Church Office (763) 682-1245 Fax (763) 684-1967 Street Address 1200 Highway 25 South, Buffalo (across from 13th St S.) Mailing Address PO Box 88, Buffalo, MN 55313

Zion Staff

Chris Hagen Interim Pastor / x304 / chagen@zionbuffalo.org Rebecca Sogge Pastor (on sabbatical) Judy Burgett Winzig Interim Associate Pastor / x305 / jwinzig@zionbuffalo.org Sherilyn Burgdorf Shared Ministry Director / x 307 / sburgdorf@zionbuffalo.org Roxie Otten Co-Director of Christian Education / x 331 / rotten@zionbuffalo.org Holly Husom Co-Director of Christian Education / x331 / hhusom@zionbuffalo.org Myron Crawford Director of Youth Ministries / x308 / mcrawford@zionbuffalo.org Jim Onstad Youth Staff Diane Montplaisir Administrative Secretary/ x302 / dmontplaisir@zionbuffalo.org Angela Bengtson Communications & Membership / x325 / abengtson@zionbuffalo.org Sue Stensrud Financial Secretary / x303 / sstensrud@zionbuffalo.org Jill Pryor Building & Grounds Manager / jpryor@zionbuffalo.org Tom & Melissa Janzen Evening / Weekend Custodians Jennifer Weese Nursery Staff Tina Eich Nursery Staff Michael Walsh Coordinator of Music

Zion Council

Kevin Bergquist 2009-2011 Vice President /Zion Foundation /Acting President Carol Clark 2008-2010 Secretary /Finance Dirk Foster 2008-2010 President /Personnel Jud Goerss 2008-2009 Treasurer /Memorials & Placement Kelly Hanson 2009-2011 Evangelism & Outreach Debbie Johnson 2007-2009 Social Ministry Charles Krause 2008-2010 Youth / Acting Vice President Kevin Lincicum 2007-2009 Worship & Music, Adult Education Colleen Manninen 2009-2011 Fellowship Scott Morin 2009-2011 Christian Education Steve Peterson 2009-2011 Stewardship Dave Schmidt 2008-2010 New Member Doug Schmidt 2008-2010 Property Marci Wold 2007-2007 Global Missions Idella Ziegler 2007-2009 Stewardship

And

Pete & Judy Weis Stephen Ministry Leaders Julie Kabe Food For Friends Coordinator

3 from the pastor

Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you. As the

Father has sent me, even so I send you.” John 20:21

Three “ships” summarize the life of members in church. We continuously move among three phases of church life, that of worship, discipleship and apostleship.

Worship is praising and thanking our Lord. We worship God communally every Sunday morning. But we also are to worship the Lord with all our being and with every breath. We worship when we live as God‟s people, when in our being and in our bearing we reveal God. Our existence is testimony to our Creator and Redeemer who gives and preserves life.

Discipleship is instruction and training. Jesus‟ disciples were in training during their time with Jesus. They learned what it meant to follow Jesus. They practiced using the authority Jesus gave them. They reflected on their experiences. They were molded and formed into being God‟s people. Learning is a life-long endeavor. We are to continually learn more of what it means to be followers of Jesus.

Apostleship is being sent into the world as God‟s people. It is being appointed, being commissioned. Following orientation toward our Lord in worship, and following training as God‟s people, we are sent into the world to be testimony to God‟s kingdom that has come. Apostleship is carrying out God‟s mission in the places God has sent us: our homes, school, jobs, neighborhoods.

God‟s mission is fourfold: create, care, redeem and reconcile. We carry out one or more of those ministries through our jobs and in our relationships.

We learn how and are sustained in those activities by “the three ships.” Worship keeps us oriented to the Lord who sustains us and whose Spirit works through us. Discipleship hones our ability to be God‟s representatives in the world. Apostleship carries out our callings as God‟s people, delivering grace and mercy to a world in need.

Church life has largely neglected the three ships. For many, church has been reduced to a couple of hours on an occasional Sunday. Worship has ceased to be day-long praise and thanks as we go about each day‟s business. Discipleship has been narrowed to childhood Sunday school and perhaps confirmation. Apostleship has been relegated to committee work.

I encourage this congregation to examine again the church‟s core functions of worship, discipleship and apostleship, with the intent of shaping Zion‟s future ministry. The outcome of that ministry is people sent as God‟s emissaries to a world astray and hurting.

May God bless Zion, for the sake of the world.

Worship

Lectionary & Preachers

Sunday June 7 / Monday June 8 The Holy Trinity First Sunday after Pentecost John 3:1-17 Pastor Chris Preaching Sunday June 14 / Monday June 15 Second Sunday after Pentecost Mark 4:26-34 Pastor Chris Preaching Sunday June 21 / Monday June 22 Third Sunday After Pentecost Mark 4:35-41 Pastor Judy Preaching Sunday June 28 / Monday June 29 Fourth Sunday After Pentecost Mark 5:21-43 Pastor Chris Preaching

Marysville

Monday Evening Services During June, July & August services are held at the historic Marysville Church, on County Road 9 between Buffalo and Waverly, each Monday evening at 7pm.

The Swedesburg (AKA Marysville) Church was served by the same pastors as the Carlslund (later known as Zion) congregation until Swedesburg disbanded in 1950 and the members joined Zion. In 1973 the building was restored to celebrate the centennial of Swedesburg, and Monday evening summer services commenced at that time.

Marysville is just a 10-15 minute drive from Buffalo and a map is available online (zionbuffalo.org/Directions). Remember that this is a little country church with no modern amenities.

4 news & views

10 Years Ago

Looking Back to 1999

From the June/July Newsletter

Zion‟s missionaries in Tanzania, Dennis and Meredith Murnyak who were working with integrated agriculture projects, including fish farming, returned to Minnesota for six months of study time.

Judy & Jerry Hauer hosted the annual council picnic.

Summer Sunday S‟cool met for 5 weeks during the summer. Children attended worship and then after the children‟s sermon they were excused for more stories and fun with volunteers.

Candidates were interviewed for the new youth ministry assistant position.

Zion youth joined ecumenical youth groups for weekly Tuesday afternoon service projects and Wednesday evening fellowship events.

There was a three-day youth golf trip to Wisconsin.

Zion began the call process for an associate pastor in preparation for Pastor Ed Blair‟s transition to a part-time position. Members of the call committee were Chris Swaggert, Merle Loken, Wanda Weber, Tom Polzine, Rolf Mohwinkel, Judy Hauer, and Kevin Bergquist.

The council was informed that the synod was beginning to plan a second ELCA church in the Buffalo area.

The council approved use of Zion‟s parking lot for “Pork Express”, a direct farmer-to-consumer provider of pork products.

Plans were made to re-stripe both parking lots.

Looking for Family News? Check Page 13

Day of Prayer Blessings “I love this church. God is here!”

“I found this day of prayer time to be both a

powerful and moving experience.”

“Such a blessing. So unifying.”

These are some of the comments made by participants of our recent Zion Day of Prayer. Thanks to all who prayed for our congregation at church, at home or on the road. We wait with enthusiasm as the Holy Spirit responds to and through us. If you were unable to participate, devotional materials are still available at the church or online at www.ZionBuffalo.org/DOP. God bless us as we continue to seek His guidance.

Active Military

Please Pray For

Destiny Johnson, deployed to Basrah, Iraq ; Jay Iversen, deployed to Camp Liberty, Iraq; Steve Svoboda, deployed to

Kirkuk, Iraq; Dirk Foster, stationed at Naval Surface Warfare Center in Port Hueneme, CA; Fred Pierce,

stationed at Pensacola, FL; Aaron Hatling, stationed at Heidelberg, Germany; Cody Bauman, stationed at Fort Bragg, NC; Chris Paulsen-Schmidt, stationed at Great Lakes, IL; Ben Pecarina, stationed at Nellis AFB, NV; Jake Swanson, stationed at Fort Bragg,

NC; Greg Bremseth, deployed to Iraq; DeAnna Strommen, deployed to Kuwait; Christopher Brophy will be entering the Army in July.

Please let the church office know of any additions or corrections to this list.

Dirk Foster

Things continue to go well in my job as the Chief of Staff for NSWC PHD. My day is filled with ensuring that the staff runs smoothly. I mainly work with the non-technical side of the business. This Friday afternoon was very busy. One employee was warned that he had to evacuate his home in 15 minutes because of the Santa Barbara fires. He eventually did not have to evacuate but it was close. Then a small earthquake struck about 20 miles away. No damage or injuries, but many people felt it. Finally, the ambulance and fire truck showed up because one of our employees was having chest pains. He was taken to the hospital and released the next day.

I am working on deconflicting two groups that were promised the same building for

(Dirk Foster continued on page 13)

10 Years From Now

Looking Ahead to 2019?

Anonymous

Celebration Sunday, June 16th, will celebrate the final payment on Zion‟s mortgage! This will free up $216,000 annually for additional ministry at Zion. Thanks be to God!

God‟s Angels held their semi-annual automobile diagnosis and maintenance day. 23 vehicles were serviced for those who are on government assistance and either had jobs or were seeking work.

The 4th Annual Blessing of the Golf Balls tournament raised $3,100 for the homeless youth shelter in Maple Lake.

Zion hosted 8 delegates from our sister church in Nigeria. Along with an update on the new school our two churches have jointly built, the delegates led three adult forums at Zion on evangelizing the unchurched.

The Senior Pastor‟s 10th anniversary at Zion was celebrated with barbeque on the lawn.

The Personnel Committee is finalizing the job description for a staff social worker to work closely with the school district, hospital and Wright County for settling newly arrived immigrants in the Buffalo area.

The audio-visual system in the sanctuary was upgraded through a generous donation to the Memorial Fund.

Men’s Softball The Zion Softball Team plays in the Churches for Christ softball league on Friday nights at the fields on the corner of 34 & 134. Come on out and cheer: 6/5 @ 8pm vs. LDS

6/12 @ 7pm vs. St John‟s

6/19 @ 8pm vs. Buffalo Covenant 2

6/26 @7pm vs. St Johns 2

5

Council Update

Wednesday April 15, 2009

Global Missions Committee continuing to direct 3% of FIF to Global mission work in the coming year was approved.

The Memorial Committee will be purchasing new Red and Green paraments, pagers to give to parents dropping kids off in the nursery and 40 more replacement hymnals.

The Bridgebuilder Report was officially received and creation of various short term sub committees to deal with issues raised in the report was discussed.

Charles Krause was elected as interim VP as Kevin Bergquist assumes the president‟s roll while Dirk Foster is deployed.

Colleen Manninen, Pastor Chris and Scott Morin will coordinate the Forward in Faith 2 building fund appeal as FIF2 ends in May of this year.

The Council, Finance Committee, and Stewardship Committee were all asked to participate in a 4 month tithe of time, talent and resources. Pastor Hagen will reduce his compensation by 10% during this time.

Complete minutes are available on the church website at www.zionbuffalo.org/council.

From Pastor Becky The following was sent to members in May:

Dear Members of Zion,

As you know, I am on sabbatical. This time continues to be a good time of resting in God, experiencing God in new ways and enjoying wonderful family time. An important part of this time has been to reflect on God‟s call for me. It is with prayerful consideration that I share with you that I will not be returning to Zion at the end of my sabbatical in October.

Thank you for your partnership in ministry, for your trust, respect and support. I consider it a privilege to serve God as a pastor. I am thankful for my call to be a part of God‟s unfolding story at Zion for the past nine years. We do not get to read ahead in this story but we all live in the same baptismal promise that God is at work and will guide us. God will continue to work in this time of transition at Zion and as I seek a new call.

God bless you all in this journey.

In Christ,

Rev. Dr. Rebecca M. Sogge

6 volunteers

Nursery Volunteering in the nursery is a fun & easy way to contribute to your congregation. Helpers are needed each Sunday morning during the 8:30 & 10:30 services.

For more information or to sign up, please call Jenni Weese at 682.0668. Plan to arrive 15 minutes prior to the service you will be helping with. Students can complete some of their confirmation service hours by helping in the nursery.

Jenni and Tina look forward to seeing you and appreciate your help.

Proofreaders If you would be willing to occasionally proofread church publications before printing, please contact Angela. The timeframe is often short or overnight and the materials would be sent to you as a link to a PDF without the expectation that it would fit your schedule every time.

God’s Gardeners A few garden spaces are left . Please contact the church office for information if you are interested in tending a small garden space at Zion for the summer.

Thank You To all the volunteers and donors that participated in the May 24 Red Cross Bloodmobile at Zion.

To the volunteers that helped mark over 200 new lots in the Zion Cemetery on May 19.

Meals on Wheels

June Drivers Needed

June is Zion„s month to deliver Meals on Wheels to seniors in Buffalo. We are asked to provide 3 drivers per day. This is a most rewarding activity and makes a good family service project.

Consider which days you can help and sign up online or on the calendar at Zion. Drivers are asked to be at Lake Ridge Care Center (formerly Ebenezer) at 11:45am. Come to the kitchen entrance in the back of the building on 4th Avenue South.

If you've driven before and prefer a specific route please request it when you sign up. If you'd like to try it but you're unfamiliar with Buffalo let us know - we will find a partner for your first drive.

Minnesota All-State Lutheran Choir

Concert at Zion

The Minnesota All-State Lutheran Choir is including a concert at Zion in their tour itinerary.

Each year high school students all over the state audition for the 40-65 voice choir. In June, the choir assembles [to] participate in eight days of rehearsal, Bible study and discussion concerning the meaning of the texts they will be singing on the tour.

The concert will be on June 24 at 7:30pm in the Sanctuary. A free-will offering will be collected and sponsorship contributions are also welcome.

Zion needs to provide supper for the choir before the concert. Zion also needs to provide housing for the choir, including some with pet/smoke allergies. Hosts need to house at least two students. Students will depart the following morning around 9am.

The up-front cost of this concert is not a budgeted item, but could be covered by five individuals or families that would provide sponsorship of $50 (smaller sponsorship amounts are also welcome).

If you can help provide supper, host students, or would like to help sponsor this concert, please contact Sherilyn at sburgdorf@zionbuffalo.org or 763.682.1245.

Summer Musicians Use your talents this summer to provide special music for one of our

summer worship services. Instrumentalists, pianists, vocalists, groups or solos… you are invited! Interested in Monday nights at Marysville? There‟s a special music spot for you there too!

Contact Sherilyn Burgdorf or Mike Walsh to volunteer.

7

Harvest of Hands Church Bazaar The annual Harvest of Hands bazaar is just 5 months away. Volunteers have been very busy and having fun at Tuesday morning and Wednesday evening sessions. They have created an assortment of crafts for our sale and have many projects to complete in the coming months.

Coordinators Coordinators are needed early this year to be ahead of the game, positions include:

Please consider serving as a coordinator this year. If you have never been a coordinator and want to try, please call Joy Arens at 763.658.6124 for details.

Donate Supplies

If you have any of these items, please drop off in the Wilderness Room:

Old jewelry to make brooches and chains.

Old silverware to make jewelry pieces.

Old dishes to make mosaic art pieces.

Work on Crafts at Home

Do you like to work with beads making jewelry, bookmarks, and/or ornaments? Do you like to embroider? It would be great to have more jewelry and towels for sale this year. Please contact Joy for supplies if needed.

June Crafts at Zion

June 9th, 9-11am: Special guest teaching Stain Glass Butterflies

June 10th, 7-9pm: Tree Skirts & Jewelry

June 23rd, 9-11am: Stain Glass Art

June 24th, 7-9pm: Tree Skirts & Jewelry

Church Geeks

JSP? CSS? Ubuntu?

If that means anything to you, you might be able to help with one of several small computer projects in the church office:

Tweak scripts used to integrate calendar widgets into Zion‟s website so that they show the needed information and are formatted appropriately.

Tweak CSS used on Zion‟s website and email newsletters to fix some layout issues.

Set up two Ubuntu internet kiosks (in the library and narthex) for members and visitors to the building to access the internet.

Please contact Angela if you can help: abengtson@zionbuffalo.org.

Got Photos? The office frequently needs photos for publications and you can help.

Consider taking more photos at church, even when it is not a special event.

When you do get great photos, please share some of them:

Email a file (use the highest resolution your email can handle) to Angela.

Upload your photo to Photobucket or Flickr or another online service and email a link to Angela.

Upload photos to Zion‟s group or fan page on Facebook.

Photos are the greatest need, but also consider sharing any Zion videos too via YouTube (send the office a link) or Facebook.

White Elephant

Silent Auction

Bake Shop

Demonstrators

Cleanup

Flyers

Publicity

Price tags, nametags, labels, & tickets

8

Lyme Disease Information There will be a community film screening and forum on Lyme Disease at Zion on Sunday, June 7th from 1-4pm.

Lyme disease is one of the fastest growing infectious diseases in the United States. Unfortunately, each year thousands remain undiagnosed or misdiagnosed.

Join us to learn more about the many misconceptions regarding Lyme disease including its diagnosis, treatment and support options. All are welcome to this free event.

Contact Cassie at cassiesjewels@hotmail.com with any questions about this event.

Saving Fish From Drowning Zion Book Club

The Zion Book Club will meet in the Zion Library at 7pm on June 8 to discuss “Saving Fish from Drowning” by Amy Tan

The title of the book is derived from the practice of Myanmar fishermen who "scoop up the fish and bring them to shore. They say they are saving the fish from drowning. Unfortunately... the fish do not recover," . . . Bibi Chen, San Francisco socialite and art vendor to the stars, plans to lead a trip for 12 friends . . . Unfortunately, Bibi dies, in very strange circumstances, before the tour begins. After wrangling about it, the group decides to go after all. (Amazon.com)

Other upcoming books are The Story of Edgar Sawtelle by Dave Wroblewski on July 13, The Cradle by Patrick Somerville on August 10, and The Leper by Steve Thayer on September 14, and Confederates in the Attic by Tony Horwitz on October 12.

This is a low pressure book club. Readers are encouraged to simply come for discussion with no preparation, they are not obligated to agree on (or even finish) the books. Come when you have interest and time, so that book club will enrich your life, and not become another stress or obligation.

Lutheran Night at the Twins The 16th Annual Lutheran Night at the Twins will be August 26, 2009 against the Baltimore Orioles. Thrivent Financial for Lutherans will again be providing a free bus. Tickets are $22 (lower reserve), $17 (upper club) and $7 (general admission). Ticket order forms will be online and in the July newsletter.

fellowship & study

Zionaires

Seniors‟ Group

Who are Zionaires?? Zionaires are an active group of Zion seniors (age 55+) who meet monthly for fun, educational, and spiritual trips, discussions, special speakers, and more!

For example on May 21 Zionaires took a trip to explore the Como Park Conservatory and Zoo. It was a great day with transportation, guided tours, lunch, and much more for a minimal charge.

Mark down on your calendars for these probable upcoming events:

June: Guest Speaker (check the weekly bulletin for details)

July: Fishing & pontoon tour on Lake Pulaski

August: Science Museum Titanic Adventure

September: Arboretum scenic trip

Please join us for fellowship and fun!

Baptism Class

6pm, Wednesday, July 8 Anyone wishing to schedule a baptism is asked to attend a class prior to the date of the baptism. Expectant parents as well as those who already are parents may attend the class.

Scheduling of baptisms will take place at the class. Normally baptisms will take place on the second or fourth Sundays of the month during any of the worship services.

9

Personality and Faith

Myers Briggs Personality Test

We sometimes forget that God has not created us exactly alike. We each have differing gifts for God‟s mission in the world. (1 Cor. 12) Just as each of us has preferences in how we learn, we also have preferences that can help us deepen our spiritual life.

How would you like to take a simple test and find out what kind of music, prayer, and even what Gospel might be best for you. And you

might learn why others enjoy something that doesn‟t strike you at all!

Wednesday June 10th from 7-8pm, as a part of Second Wednesday in June, plan to come and take a simple Myers Briggs Personality test and be apart of a

discussion on what introverts and extroverts not just like, but benefit from differing styles within worship. Pastor Judy will be leading this activity.

The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) is a helpful tool for grasping the effect that personality

has on our spiritual needs. This approach, developed by Katherine and Isabel Briggs from the earlier work of

Carl Jung, revolves around the basic idea of preference. Just as we tend to favor either the right or left hand, so also each have a unique understanding to the way view life, God, and therefore, worship.

Summer Second Wednesdays **June 10** 5-6pm: Supper Hotdogs, Beans, Chips

6:15-6:45pm: Worship Family Worship led by Rock N U

7-8pm:

Adult Education Personality and Faith

Senior High Program Tattoos & Piercings

Family Activity Continue the VBS SonRock Kids‟ Camp with a Scavenger Hunt, Bonfire & S‟mores

The bonfire is likely to continue past 8pm for adults and youth that would like to finish the evening with a s‟more.

Coming This Summer Only At Zion Enjoy a picnic dinner from 5-6pm followed by worship and activities, classes or just time to get together to enjoy the summer and each other. All are invited to come.

Meals will be picnic style. Free-will donations to cover the cost accepted.

Volunteer Grill masters are needed: contact Pastor Judy or Myron to volunteer.

Cookies & bars are needed for dessert: no need to sign up, just bring something if you are able.

For adults attending the education program, nursery will be available for children 3 years and under from 7-8pm.

Second Wednesdays this summer are: June 10th, July 8th, and August 12th. Mark your calendars now.

Every Day in June 11:45am Meals on Wheels Monday June 1 6:30pm First Sunday Rehearsal 7:00pm Marysville Service 7:30pm Alcoholics Anonymous Tuesday June 2 9:30am Staff Meeting 12:00pm LSS Counseling 2:30pm Voice Lessons 7:00pm Jubilee Rehearsal 7:00pm Overeaters Anonymous Wednesday June 3 Thursday June 4 8:00am Men Seeking Wisdom Bible

Study Friday June 5 9:00am LSS Counseling 8:00pm Men‟s Softball vs. LDS Saturday June 6 3:30pm Wedding at Zion 4:00pm Wedding at Marysville Sunday June 7 Senior High Carwash Holy Communion at 8:30, 9:45, and 10:30 Trinity Sunday 8:30am Traditional Service 9:30am Coffee Fellowship 9:45am Family Express Worship 10:30am Contemporary Worship

Service 1:00pm Lyme's Disease Presentation

Monday June 8 6:30pm First Sunday Rehearsal 7:00pm Book Club 7:00pm Marysville Service 7:30pm Alcoholics Anonymous

Tuesday June 9 9:00am Harvest of Hands Crafts 9:30am Staff Meeting 12:00pm LSS Counseling 6:30pm Women United in Faith 7:00pm Jubilee Rehearsal 7:00pm Overeaters Anonymous Wednesday June 10

5:00pm Second Wednesday Supper 6:15pm Family Worship 7:00pm Personality and Faith 7:00pm Family Scavenger Hunt &

Bonfire 7:00pm Youth Group: Tattoos &

Piercings 7:00pm Harvest of Hands Crafts Thursday June 11 8:00am Men Seeking Wisdom Bible

Study Friday June 12 9:00am LSS Counseling 7:00pm Men‟s Softball vs. St John‟s Saturday June 13 2:00pm Wedding at Zion 4:00pm Wedding at Marysville Sunday June 14 Ordinary Time, Proper 6 Campers leave for Green Lake & Shores 8:30am Traditional Service 9:30am Coffee Fellowship 9:45am Family Express Worship 10:30am Contemporary Worship

Service Monday June 15

6:30pm First Sunday Rehearsal

7:00pm Marysville Service 7:00pm Global Mission Meeting 7:30pm Alcoholics Anonymous Tuesday June 16 9:30am Staff Meeting 9:30am Naomi Circle 12:00pm LSS Counseling 6:00pm Stephen Ministries 7:00pm Property Committee

Meeting 7:00pm Jubilee Rehearsal 7:00pm Overeaters Anonymous Wednesday June 17 9:15am Devotions at Sunrise 7:30pm Church Council Meeting Thursday June 18 8:00am Men Seeking Wisdom Bible

Study 7:30pm Rebecca Circle Friday June 19 Campers return from Green Lake & Shores 9:00am LSS Counseling 7:00pm Wedding 8:00pm Men‟s Softball vs. Covenant 2 Saturday June 20 Sunday June 21 Father's Day Holy Communion at 8:30 and 10:30 Ordinary Time, Proper 7 8:30am Traditional Service 9:30am Coffee Fellowship 9:45am Family Express Worship 10:30am Contemporary Worship

Service

look for updates & links at: www.zionbuffalo.org

10 June calendar

June

8-12

Zion Day Camp Starts

Monday June 22 9:30am Lake Ridge Bible Study 6:30pm First Sunday Rehearsal 7:00pm Marysville Service 7:30pm Alcoholics Anonymous Tuesday June 23 9:00am Harvest of Hands Crafts 9:30am Staff Meeting 12:00pm LSS Counseling 2:30pm Voice Lessons 6:30pm Women United in Faith 7:00pm Jubilee Rehearsal 7:00pm Overeaters Anonymous Wednesday June 24 9:00am Newsletter Crew 9:30am Devotions at Lakeridge 10:30am Devotions at Park View 7:00pm Harvest of Hands Crafts 7:30pm Minnesota All State

Lutheran Choir Concert Thursday June 25 8:00am Men Seeking Wisdom Bible

Study Friday June 26 9:00am LSS Counseling 7:00pm Men‟s Softball vs. St John‟s2 Saturday June 27 12:00pm Bridal Party 4:00pm Wedding at Marysville 4:00pm Wedding at Zion Sunday June 28 Ordinary Time, Proper 8 8:30am Traditional Service 9:30am Coffee Fellowship 9:45am Family Express Worship 10:30am Contemporary Worship Monday June 29 6:30pm First Sunday Rehearsal 7:00pm Marysville Service 7:30pm Alcoholics Anonymous Tuesday June 30 9:30am Staff Meeting 12:00pm LSS Counseling 2:30pm Voice Lessons 7:00pm Jubilee Rehearsal 7:00pm Overeaters Anonymous

Tweeting the Mission Trip When Zion's senior high youth head off to Wind River Reservation in Wyoming on their mission trip this summer, you will be able to check updates on their work via Twitter . . . Here's how:

Join Twitter

Go to twitter.com & click "Get Started-Join!"

Choose a username & password and sign up.

Click on "skip" at the bottom of the next page, don't sign up your friends yet.

Click on "Settings" at the top of the next page

Update your name (just your first name is fine), Time Zone, and Location & click Save.

Enable Text Messages (optional)

Click on the Devices tab, enter your cell phone number, check the box under your phone number and click "Save".

Create a contact on your phone called "Twitter", and use 40404 as the phone number.

Text the 6 letter code provided on the next page to Twitter.

Follow ZionYouth

Go to twitter.com/ZionYouth.

Click 'Follow'.

Turn on device updates to receive text messages.

Prayer Ministries

www.ZionBuffalo.org/Prayer Zion‟s website now has a page of

prayer resources, prayer requests, and prayer forums where you can share

your prayers and prayer needs, or read and pray for the needs of others.

Prayer requests can be directed to the prayer chain, pastors, staff meetings,

worship services, and/or posted publicly.

11

12

Four Month Challenge Tithing is presented in the Bible as a benchmark that we can use to help answer the question, “How much, Lord?”

Pastor Chris, with the support of the stewardship committee, the finance committee, and the church council, has challenged us to consider contributing a tithe, or ten percent of our incomes to Zion for the next four months.

A short-term commitment like this can give us a chance to accept God‟s challenge to test Him as well: “Bring the full tithes to the storehouse, that there may be food in my house; and thereby put me to the test, says the Lord of hosts, if I will not open the windows of heaven for you and pour down for you an overflowing blessing.” Malachi 3:10.

Are you willing to take God up on God‟s challenge?

Are you ready for overflowing blessings?

Gifts To Zion A gift to the memorial fund in memory of Frank Pfeifer from Betty Pfeifer.

A gift to the Library Fund in memory of Ruth Cornell from Marlys Corhouse.

Donations Needed

Nursery

Gently used or new „Pack and Play‟ crib

Gently used or new safety gate

Gently used or new high chair

New Christian themed coloring books, story books, movies, or games

New toys

finance & stewardship

Financial Report

April 2009

General Services Fund

Income April 2009 YTD 2009

General Offering $59,520.12 $209,929.30

Rent and Sunday School $5,877.52 $13,970.19

Missions and Hunger $858.00 $4,285.00

Other Designations $938.50 $4,798.50

Total $67,194.14 $232,982.99

Expenses

Synod Benevolence $1,500.00 $6,000.00

Other General Services $78,023.77 $249,437.39

Total $79,523.77 $255,437.39

Account Balance as of 4-30-09: $0.00

Forward in Faith Fund

Income April 2009 YTD 2009

Offerings and Interest $12,640.09 $54,051.59

Other Receipts 0.00 1,500.00

Total Income $12,640.09 $55,551.59

Expenses

Building Mortgage $17,087.30 $68,349.20

Roof/Parking Lot Loan $539.63 $2,132.53

3% Tithe Expense/Other Expense 0.00 0.00

Total Expenses $17,626.93 $70,481.73

Account Balance as of 4-30-09: $54,722.73

General Fund Note: There were surplus funds available in the General Fund account on 1-1-09. Because of the month-end deficits so far in 2009, this surplus has been exhausted. It was previously communicated that the church would apply for a line of credit to be used as working capital in order to keep up with expenses. This line of credit was secured in early April 2009 and it has not yet been necessary to use this line as of the printing of this June newsletter.

Summer Vacations on a Budget In the Spring 2009 Thrivent Magazine, there are some great tips on traveling affordably. Here are a few:

1. Draft a budget for each destination. Factor in fees for checking luggage and the cost for eating out.

2. Avoid financing your trip with credit cards unless you‟re certain you‟ll be able to pay them off when you get the bill. Instead, save for your get away by setting up a separate account earmarked for vacations.

3. Travel in the off-season or try out-of-the ordinary destinations to receive better rates.

4. Reconnect with God‟s creation in a National Park. There is something to suit everyone‟s wanderlust, such as rock climbing, canoeing and horseback riding. The parks were founded with a philosophy of being accessible, so services and lodging are reasonably priced.

5. Search for deals online. We now have the power to craft our own vacations and compare prices and save. If you know exactly when you want to travel, don‟t put off purchasing your tickets; the prices are likely to go up.

6. Look at Shelter creatively. Look beyond hotels. Swapping homes or staying in an abbey, hostel or University dorm room can be a big money saver.

7. Pare down your sightseeing. Admission costs to lots of museums and amusement parks can quickly add up. Consider visiting one tourist attraction each day. Scan local newspapers for free events, or set aside time to just enjoy hanging out at a sidewalk cafe, or relaxing with a book at the beach.

8. Serve others. Explore mission opportunities through your church. In many cases you can offset the costs of these trips be raising donations, making them and affordable way to recharge your spirit while helping

others.

For more information on Thrivent Financial for Lutherans and its products, please contact Mark Worner at 763.682.6011.

13

Family News

Births

April 15 Noah Robert Elam Son of Nathan & Angie Elam

April 19 Lena Jean Hysko Daughter of Armando & Jackie Hysko

April 21 Calista Kurt Weiche Daughter of Aaron & Marci Weiche

Baptisms

April 26 Riley James West

Weddings

April 4 Denise Jerde & Scott Olson

May births & pastoral acts will be reported in the July Newsletter.

Save a Tree

Email Newsletter

This newsletter is available in electronic form on the church website at ZionBuffalo.org/Newsletter. You can read individual articles or a PDF of the print layout.

If you would like to start receiving an email when the newsletter is updated each month, you can sign up right on that page.

If you are receiving the newsletter electronically and would like to stop delivery of the printed newsletter, please contact Angela (abengtson@zionbuffalo.org) to change your newsletter preferences.

expansion, answering an OSHA complaint, getting performance evaluations in on time and improving the Commanding Officers suggestion box process. I have also emceed an awards ceremony, scheduled training for the staff and am working on developing a strategic alignment with an engineering program at one of the University of California campuses.

I really like my job, the commanding officer is great to work for and all of the people have been wonderful. I do miss everyone at home. I hope they are getting ready for a great summer and I look forward to seeing as many people as possible over the 4th of July weekend.

Dirk

(Dirk Foster continued from page 4)

14

Zion’s New Nigeria Partnership

Lutheran Church of Christ in Nigeria

As Zion begins it‟s partnership with the people of the Shelleng congregation of the Lutheran Church of Christ in Nigeria (LCCN). It may be time to learn a little more about the country of Nigeria.

Did you know?

Nigeria is the most populous country in Africa. According to 2008 estimates there are 151.5 million Nigerians. That‟s 20% of the entire population of all African countries.

Nigeria is twice the size of California.

A member of the British Commonwealth of Nations, Nigeria has been an independent country since 1960.

English is the official language of Nigeria. There are over 180 tribal languages also spoken, most prominently: Yoruba, Hausa, Ibo, and Fulani.

Life expectancy is only 46 years for men and 47 years for women.

There are over 33 million mobile cell phones in use (as of 2006) in Nigeria. These use global positioning satellites and have opened up a new world of communication and business possibilities.

Learn More

Would you enjoy learning more about Zion‟s Partnership with Shelleng congregation of the Lutheran Church of Christ in Nigeria?

Zion is looking for members who would be a part of a Shelleng Companion Team. This team would be responsible for communication to and from Shelleng, raising awareness about the Shelleng congregation and it‟s ministries, working on building joint projects with Shelleng (such as, but not limited to: children to children, women to women, outreach projects),and, especially lifting up this partnership in prayer on a weekly basis.

If this is something you would be interesting in being a part of, please contact the office at office@zionbuffalo.org or through Pastor Judy.

Websites

Check the Nigeria page on Zion‟s website (ZionBuffalo.org/Nigeria) for a list of websites with more information about Nigeria.

missions & social ministry

Building a Well

On April 29 at Nigeria Night, children representing the Sunday School presented Kris Perry, Diaconal Minister with the Minneapolis Area Synod (MAS), with a check for the $1,350 they raised during Lent for a new well in Nigeria (pictured below). When Kris Perry asked how they raised the money, one boy said” we gave way all our change.” They also passed around empty paint buckets for a “Noisy Offering” at all three worship services on of the Sundays of Lent.

More educational opportunities and service projects for the Lutheran Church of Christ in Nigeria are being planned for this year‟s Vacation Bible School in June.

Later, Pastor Judy received a note thanking Zion for the gift. Part of that letter read:

Just imagine, if all of our MAS Sunday School children were to set aside six weeks of Sunday School offerings what an impact our entire synod would have on the lives of our friends in Nigeria as we strive to help them achieve the goal of safe drinking water for their people. The children of Zion have set a wonderful example of hearing the need and responding in kindness and love. They have indeed responded to their baptismal call to serve others.

The stars on this map indicate other existing partnerships between LCCN & MAS congregations.

Angels in Action

God‟s Angels

Kevin Bergquist recently stated that

“Gods Angels‟ are up and active. This cadre of experts and jack/jills of all trades are helping the Zion community by assisting with small domestic jobs that may be tough to handle. These handymen and women are truly the „face of Christ‟ for folks in need.”

Recently God‟s Angels helped Beth Wychor, a single mother of four, who needed help to get fireplace operating again to heat their house.

Beth said “I‟m so thankful for the kind and generous help that a member of God‟s Angels provided for me and my family. We are truly blessed and so appreciative of their efforts!‟

God‟s Angels can also help you with minor home repairs. Please fill out a request form and the Angels will respond!

Redeemer

Is Our Cable Connected to God?

By Pastor Kelly Chatman

In a seminary mission class, Tom Mason told how, as a new missionary, he was assigned a car that would not start without a push. After pondering his problem, he devised a plan. He went to the school near his home, got permission to take some children out

(Redeemer Lutheran continued on page 18)

15

Buffalo Public Library

Local Partners: Service, Advocacy & Ministry

The Buffalo Public Library is a modern, fully accessible library. As one of 31 locations area locations of the Great River Regional Library system it has access to over 700,000 items which include books, cassettes, compact discs, books on tape, videotapes, magazines, and newspapers.

On Sunday, June 14 there will be a short program at 9:45 with information about the Buffalo Public Library and ways that you can participate in Zion‟s outreach to the local community through getting involved with the Buffalo Public Library.

Who Is Terri Harris?

Love INC

The Delano Herald Journal recently printed an article about Terri Harris, Executive Director of Love INC Heartland, and the miracle that led her to Love INC: http://www.herald-journal.com/archives/2009/stories/terri-harris-mission.html.

Love INC is one of the local partners that will be highlighted by the Social Ministry committee in coming months.

Services Provided:

High Speed internet access

Children and teen programs (reading programs, story hours, seasonal programs)

Book selection advice

Senior computer lab training

Community rooms and private study areas

Volunteer Opportunities:

Summer maintenance of the grounds

Collect holds for other branch libraries

Shelf read

Call patrons when requested items arrive

Cut and assemble craft projects for children‟s events

Friends of the Library promote library services, local authors, and help with book sales

Please use and support this local facility.

Each month the Social Ministry Committee will be promoting our church‟s outreach into our community through prayer and actions by highlighting the efforts and needs of one of our local partner organizations.

16

ZionBuffalo.org/Youth

1 Timothy 4:12 Don‟t let anyone look down on you

because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity.

Director of Youth Ministries Myron Crawford

763-682-1245 ext. 308

mcrawford@zionbuffalo.org

Zion Youth Ministries We exist to reach out to youth, to come

together and learn how to be for God and others through worship, study, fellowship and

service.

youth ministries

Confirmation

Registration

Attention all students who will be in 7th or 8th Grade in Fall of „09:

Registration for Confirmation begins June 1.

This is for all new students and returning students.

Registration for classes this year will have a closing date of Friday, August 21 and late registrations will not be accepted.

Parents: Confirmation small group guides are needed as well. Take time to prayerfully consider making a two year commitment to foster the spiritual relationships of students.

Current Students

Just a reminder to current 7th & 8th grade students, ALL work must be completed for the year by Aug 1st!

Make sure that your work is in.

Affirmation of Baptism

Attn 8th Graders: The Affirmation of Baptism Service will be Saturday September 26 @ 1pm. Pictures will be taken at 10:30am.

There will be a retreat for all of the confirmands on Saturday September 17 @ 9am.

All requirements must be completed by August 1 to be confirmed. Late work will not be accepted.

Senior High

Mission Trip Update

Zion has 25 students and 5 adults registered for the Mission Trip to Wind River, WY on July 18-26, 2009. Please mark these important dates on your calendars:

June 7 - Church Car Wash

June 21 - Cinnamon Rolls

July 12 - Sending Service

July 17 - Packing Party

July 18 - Leave for Wyoming

July 26 - Return from Wyoming

Aug 2 - Welcome Home Brunch

Car Wash The Senior High youth group will be doing a Car Wash at Zion during the morning services on Sun June 7. Parents are needed to help. Each student is asked to bring old towels, buckets and sponges.

Second Wednesdays

Supper, worship & senior high discussion . . . June 10 is tattoos & piercings. There are programs for the rest of the family too—see page 9.

Summer Graceland Schedule Graceland, the Senior High youth group, will meet at Zion from 6-8pm on

July 1 & 15, August 26. Each night, there will be a meal, worship, games, and study. These nights are open to all students who will be in grades 9-12 in Fall „09. Each night will have a different theme, so come prepared with a Bible and notebook.

Middle School

Confirmation Camp

Final payments are past due!

Please get final payments in ASAP!

Packing Party on June 13 in Trinity Hall

9am for 2nd-5th Graders

10am for 6th - 8th Graders

All campers must be at church on Sun June 14 @ 10am to check in.

Campers will take part in a sending service during the 10:30 worship.

Parents should be in attendance!

Canoe Trip

Canoe the Namekogan & St. Croix Rivers - July 30-Aug 1, 2009.

Open to current 6th-8th Graders, parents are needed, also!

Cost is only $70, which covers food, transportation and canoe rental. Please register by June13.

Rock N U Schedule

Rehearsal July 14 & 28 Aug 4, 11 & 25

Vacation Bible School

June 8-12

Pre-registration closed on May 15. Additional children can register starting at 8:30am on the first day of VBS. will online registration is no longer available however, it is possible to register the first day. All children ages 3-12 years and volunteers are welcome to join in the fun.

At SonRock Kids Camp, Campers will build bonds of friendship with each other and with caring counselors as they discover that their true identities are not formed by where they go, what they can do or what others think. Like the apostle Peter, they‟ll explore who they are in Jesus Christ—the most important relationship of all. Because of His love for us, He is the rock upon which we can build our lives!

The themes for the week are:

Day 1: Accepted by Jesus

Day 2: Protected by Jesus

Day 3: Saved by Jesus

Day 4: Forgiven by Jesus

Day 5: Living for Jesus

Second Wednesdays

June 10 - July 8 - August 12

On the second Sunday of each month this summer enjoy a family picnic dinner followed by worship and activities, classes or just time to get together to enjoy the summer and each other. All are invited to come.

For June, the VBS SonRock Kids‟ Camp will continue in the evening with a scavenger hunt, bonfire and s‟mores. Programs for adults and youth are outlined on page 9.

Co-Directors of Christian Education Roxie Otten

rotten@zionbuffalo.org

Holly Husom hhusom@zionbuffalo.org

763-682-1245 ext. 331

17

ZionBuffalo.org/Children

children‟s ministries

June

Open Your Bible Challenge:

Just email your answer to: rotten@zionbuffalo.org

Kindergarten, first and second grade question: Tell about one of Joseph‟s dreams.

Third-grade through sixth-grade question: What does 1 John 4:19 say?

Zion Day Camp

Spread the word! Don‟t Wait!

Zion Day Camp begins on Monday, June 15! ZDC is available for any child who has just finished Kindergarten, through 12 years old, and is open weekdays from 6:00 AM until 6:30 PM. Registration packets are available at the information desk. Contact Roxie with questions.

Planning Ahead

Sunday School

We have some ideas. Watch for changes, and please share your ideas about how you‟d like to help the Sunday school program. Do you feel that we could help your child enjoy Sunday school more? We would love to hear from you. We truly desire for Sunday School to be a welcome and successful environment for all of our children and volunteers. Contact Roxie.

VBS Decorating

Creative? Artistic? Neither?

Have some spare time?

Staff and volunteers will be working hard June 1-7, to set up camp for the following

week.

There will be painting, hanging things, creating, cutting, taping, setting up tables,

and much more to do. Come to church June 1-4 anytime 9am to 3pm

or Sunday June 7th after 1pm.

We‟d love your help!

If this is not your thing, contact Roxie for

other VBS opportunities.

18

of class, and had them push his car off. As he made his rounds, he would either park on a hill or leave the engine running. He used this ingenious procedure for two years. Poor health forced the Mason family to leave, and a new missionary came to that station. When Mason proudly began to explain his arrangement for getting the car started, the new missionary began looking under the hood. Before the explanation was complete, the new missionary interrupted, “Why, Dr. Mason, I believe the only trouble is this loose cable.” He gave the cable a twist, stepped into the car, pushed the switch, and to Mason‟s astonishment, the engine roared to life.

For nearly two years needless trouble had become routine. The power was there all the time. Only a loose connection kept Mason from putting that power to work.

At Redeemer we are celebrating our hundred year anniversary with an exciting shared capital campaign, along with our non-profit Redeemer Center for Life (RCFL). God has blessed us with a wonderful vision that will impact not only the church building but the entire city block. God has brought to Redeemer the resource of Kairos Development

Consultants, Plymouth church Neighborhood Foundation, Urban Works Architects, Faith in the City, Augsburg College and the commitment of mission partners.

God has put into our hands the opportunity to build a new future, a future that will transform our congregation, neighborhood and the lies of many people with disconnected cables. This is an exciting opportunity for the church to connect our cable with people seeking affordable and supportive housing, an accessible church building, kitchen that facilitates community and creative stimulating space where children and families are mentored to learn and grow.

These are just a few of the possibilities that are within Redeemer‟s reach. The question each of us will need to answer is, “is our cable connected to God?”

How will Redeemer‟s campaign reflect God‟s campaign of justice and compassion witnessing to the church in the world? Thanks be to God for this amazing opportunity to build an exciting and promising future. Let‟s make sure that our cables are connected to God!

(Redeemer Lutheran continued from page 15)

Inside

Zion Lutheran Church 1200 Highway 25 S. PO Box 88 Buffalo, MN 55313

www.zionbuffalo.org Address Service Requested

June

200

9 Standard

U.S. Postage

PAID Permit 11

Buffalo MN 55313

Address Label Here

Services at Marysville 3

10 Years From Now 5

All State Lutheran Choir 6

Summer 2nd Wednesdays 9

Prayer Ministries 11

Four Month Challenge 12

Save a Tree 13

Nigerian Mission Partner 14

Buffalo Public Library 15

Youth Ministries 16

Children‟s Ministries 17

Out of Town? You can hear sermons, read the

weekly program, newsletter, and get other information on our website:

www.ZionBuffalo.org

Summer Second

Wednesdays

See You There