insites september 2019 the grove united methodist church · growing in faith - new women’s group...
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INSITES SEPTEMBER 2019 The Grove United Methodist Church
TheGroveMN.church
Office@ Being
651-738-
0305
Saturday
September 28
11 am - 2 pm Woodbury Grove
LIVE MUSIC
11 am - Harmonic Relief
12:15 pm - Teddy Bear Band
Activities
Yard Games— Gaga Pit
Face Painting
Service Project
Kids Dance Party
at 1:30 pm
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First Saturday of the month ~ 5-7pm For Families with children 4th grade and younger Community building, social time and learning To sign up, go to Family Grove Gatherings folder at timetosignup.com/thegrovemnchurch/
PARK PICNIC KICKOFF
Saturday, October 5, 5-7 pm @ Kargel Park
We’ll keep the kids and grownups together to play! We’ll share a picnic meal. Then we will be on the
playground and have other activities like ice breakers, bags, etc.
FAMILY TRADITION MEAL WITH TEACHING/PRACTICING GRATITUDE
Saturday, November 2, 5-7 pm @ Woodbury Campus
Bring a dish to share that is a favorite family tradition. After supper, the parents will learn while the kids play.
Childcare for kiddos provided after supper. WHITE ELEPHANT CHRISTMAS PARTY WITH SOUP SUPPER
Saturday, December 7, 5-7 pm @ Woodbury Campus
Bring a side to share. We will decorate cookies, socialize and exchange white elephant gifts.
CABIN FEVER PASTA NIGHT WITH SERVICE PROJECT
Saturday, January 4, 5-7 pm @ Woodbury Campus
Bring a side to share. We will pack food bags for elementary schools. After dinner and service project, the
grown ups will socialize while the kids play.
Childcare for kiddos provided after supper and service project.
DISCUSSION NIGHT WITH TACOS
Saturday, February 1, 5-7 pm @ Woodbury Campus
Bring a taco topping. The Family Service Bureau will lead discussion on topics such as family dynamics,
losing your cool and sibling/peer rivalry. While the parents learn, kids will play.
Childcare provided after supper. GROWNUP PLAYDATE
Saturday, March 7, 6-9pm @ Venue TBD
An event just for grownups! Find your own sitter and meet up for bowling/laser tag/arcade fun. Food can be
purchased at venue.
MANAGING OUTSIDE INFLUENCES WITH GOOD OLD CHURCH POTLUCK
Saturday, April 4, 5-7 pm @ Woodbury Campus
Bring a dish to share. After supper, the parents will learn while the kids play.
Childcare for kiddos provided after supper.
GAME NIGHT AND COOK OUT AT PASTOR KELLY’S
Saturday, May 2, 6-9ish pm @ Pastor Kelly’s House
An event just for grownups. Meet at Pastor Kelly’s with a side. Hopefully it’s nice enough to grill out. Come
and enjoy the Lamon/Christensen household’s collection of games, around 75 to choose from.
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Kick Off Sunday September 8, 2019
WORSHIP 9:00 and 10:30 am
Parking Lot Games Hamburgers, Hot Dogs and Tailgate Snacks
9:45-10:30 & 11:30-12:15
Wear your favorite jersey or team t-shirt!
Bouncy Houses, Bags, Gaga Ball, Throwing Contest, Giant Jenga and More!
No one should play a game with half-hearted effort. This is true of volleyball, of checkers, of
cribbage; and while our faith is not a game, it is especially true of our faith. And yet, many of
us just go through the motions and fail to go all in. That is no way to live! When you are all
in, you will have a closer walk with God and your church family. You will know joy and the
peace that passes all understanding. You will discover meaning, mission and purpose. This
is how God created you to live! You need to be All In!
It is time to create a winning strategy, because the prize is new life in Jesus Christ. Each week
you will be encouraged to be Involved, Informed, Invested and In-sync in the ministry of
The Grove.
Please commit to being All In! through:
• Daily Breakthrough Prayer
• Weekly worship
You now have the game-plan being All In!—be an all-star and get started.
• Participating in a small group or ministry opportunity
• Making a financial commitment to our shared ministry
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Reckless Love by Tom Berlin
Book Study begins Sept. 11 (6-wks)
• Weds, 9:30-11:30 am, Rm. 207
• Weds, 6:30-8 pm, Gathering Rm.
Cost: $20 - Books available in the office
Read chapter one before the first class.
The Grove’s next book study shares
how Jesus taught the Greatest
Commandment to his disciples.
In Reckless Love, author and
United Methodist pastor Tom
Berlin writes that Jesus taught the
disciples to love their neighbors first
as a way to more deeply love God.
Berlin’s exploration of Jesus’
teaching shows that Jesus teaches us how to love
God with heart, soul, mind, and strength by
showing us how to love our neighbor. While
many hope to learn to be better family, friends,
leaders, and neighbors by finding a deeper
relationship with God, Berlin suggests that the
first step is become a better neighbor.
In Reckless Love, readers will consider their own
lives and learn how loving the people around
them will completely renew their faith and lead
to a new experience with God.
This six-week study meets at the Woodbury
campus on Wednesdays from 9:30-11:30 am or
6:30-8 pm, beginning September 11. The class
includes a book, DVD segments, and Bible study
books (at a cost of $20). The books are available
in the office.
Tripathallon New Adult Discipleship Opportunity
A new journey to discipleship that focuses on reading,
prayer, and checking in with each other will begin in
September. Called a Tripathallon, this new group will
study the first thirteen chapters of We Make the Road by Walking by Brian McLaren. With this book’s
guidance, we explore how a living, breathing, and
growing discipleship can make a difference in our world
today. A second session studying the next thirteen
chapters will launch in February.
This study will take a new shape:
a group of three called a
TRIPATHALLON.
Joining a TRIPATHALLON
(TRI-PATH-ALL-ON) will
allow you to receive from
and share with your two
other TRIPATHLETES encouragement, support,
guidance, friendship, and new perspectives. Groups of
three are ideal because they are big enough to
stay fresh but small enough to nurture trust and
authentic discussion.
Ideally, each TRIPATHALLON will meet once a week
to build cohesion of the group and to make progress
with the book. New TRIPATHALLONS could be
formed for second session. It’s better to walk it together
when we are all on the same path of discipleship. Please
consider the impact this experience could have on other
maturing disciples and on your own journey.
You may sign up individually or as a three-person
TRIPATHALLON group by logging into The Grove’s
“Time-to-sign-up” in the Commons area by following
this link https://ttsu.me/tripathallon.
Growing in Faith - New Women’s Group Wednesdays, Sept—May, 10-11:30am - Woodbury Campus
For women seeking to explore faith perspectives through books and other resources while
forming new relationships. This group is designed for both long-time and newer women of
The Grove who are seeking a new group. Contact: Betty Schilling, [email protected]
A fall full of Small Group Opportunities
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Moms and Dads Small Groups
Build connections with others in a similar life stage (parents with young children) who
share your faith in a non-judgmental space. Come and be who you are as we find our
way through parenthood together.
Details
• For parents with children infant to 5th grade
• 90-minute meetings, once per month, October through August
• Schedule is set by the members once the small group is formed.
• First meeting will be at the church. Following the meeting, each group will decide
where it meets next (homes, coffee shops, parks, etc).
To sign up by October 6, to join a group ttsu.me/momsdadsgroup
For more information, contact Kelly Lamon at [email protected].
Jump into an On-Going Group
We will likely find something that interests you in one of our various
fellowship and study groups. You would be welcomed to join for the
whole year or just for several weeks. See our Adult Brochure for
more details of the following groups at link below. See page 14.
adults
https://s3.amazonaws.com/media.cloversites.com/64/646406ac-22f9-4fb5-98d3-02b4120ea138/documents/
Adults_Brochure_2019-2020.pdf
Everyone Eats (fka Dinner for Eight) Kick Off Potluck Dinner in the Fellowship Hall
Thursday, October 10, 6:30-8 pm at the church
Everyone Eats are adult groups of 6, 7 or 8 who gather to share a meal and
conversation with new friends. Singles and couples are welcomed.
It meets monthly; each group decides its own schedule and venue (home
potlucks or restaurants).
Sign up by October 1, to join a group at ttsu.me/EveryoneEats
For more information contact Jean Roemer at [email protected].
What group are you ALL IN?
Sunday, October 27, 3:30 pm –5 pm Gathering Room, Woodbury Campus
Learn about our congregation, its ministries, its values, and the meaning of membership.
Find opportunities to grow through study, service, and fellowship.
Childcare can be provided. Please email or call me to let me know you are coming. Indicate if you need childcare.
Pastor Dan Wetterstrom [email protected] or 651-738-0305, ext. 113
A New Group is Starting.
Join Us Sundays . . .
September 15 — October 13
4-6 pm Childcare available
RSVP to Pastor Kelly [email protected]
651-738-0305, ext. 115 by August 26 to join.
Indicate if you would like childcare.
First Connections Groups at The Grove will give you the opportunity to join together, get to know others, and
learn about the church.
Interested in making some new relational connections at church?
We’d like to start a conversation with you!
You’re invited to join a First Connections Group.
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Welcome to fall! It doesn’t seem possible that the year
is going so fast. It’s been a busy time as we continue
make disciples for Jesus Christ. The Core Team led or
was responsible for the following activities:
• Reaffirmed that The Grove is a church that loves,
accepts and includes any and all persons. We
stand in opposition to the outcome of the 2019
Special General Conference, where the
Traditional Plan was accepted by a slim margin.
• Voted to join and sign a letter with 31 other MN
Methodist congregations in opposition to the
action taken by the global gathering of the UMC.
• Sent three lay members to the Annual
Conference.
• Participated in a feasibility prescription planning
team for the Cottage Grove Campus.
• Provided financial management for Pastor Jeremy
Peter, a denomination church planter who is
assessing the feasibility of planting a church in the
Cottage Grove area.
• Held a staff appreciation luncheon.
• Approved the repair of the parsonage after water
damage from winter snow.
HUMAN RESOURCES • Supported one summer high school intern.
• Restructured Caring Ministry with the
retirement of Jane Beckstrom, Parish Nurse,
welcomed Carolyn Winslow as the Director of
Caring Ministry.
• Hired LouAnn Henderson as the Choir Director
after the resignation of LaGretta Lunde. Hired
Kris Lefferts as the Choir Accompanist.
• Due to the installation of the new sound system
and the training of new volunteer sound techs, we
reduced the previous staff sound technician
position by 1/3 for cost savings. Grant Buse and
Garrett Strain now share the position.
• To reduce expense and increase our hospitality,
we ended our contract with College Tutors and
Nannies for nursery/childcare. The position is
now rotated amongst Kelley Kluz, Sadie-jo
Kobussen, Kelly Med, and occasionally with high
school and college students who have passed
background checks
FINANCE • Conducted a successful Being The Hope
campaign to support missions with $79,126
in generous pledges and contributions.
• Conducted the second Campus
Improvement campaign with $62,298 in
pledges and contributions to assist in
strengthening the infrastructure of
the church.
• Restructured the budgeting process to
increase efficiency, provide increased detail
and increased accuracy.
• Restructured the financial giving report.
• Managed the church budget process.
SUPPORTED BUILDING OUTCOMES FROM
CAMPUS IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN • Swapped out every internal and external
light bulb with LED lights bulbs, leading to
electric cost savings.
• Installed new external and internal signage
for the campus.
• Re-painted major public areas of the church,
incorporating new design elements to
reinforce The Grove brand.
• Contracted with an outside service to
remove the bats and guano from the belfry;
reinforced and re-sealed the structure.
• Installed motion sensors in the bathrooms to
decrease use of water.
SUPPORTED TECHNOLOGY OUTCOMES
FROM CAMPUS IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN • Installed a new sound board and
projection system.
• Designed and installed new sanctuary
cabinetry to house projection system.
94th Annual Turkey Dinner & Bazaar
The idea of creating a formal national holiday originated with Abraham Lincoln in
1863 amid the still-raging Civil War. Lincoln designated Thanksgiving to be
celebrated the fourth Thursday of November. His idea was to help unify the
nation and to give thanks for its advantages and privileges of living in a democracy
like this. The Turkey Dinner at The Grove started in the 1925 as a Community
Harvest Celebration and has grown into a wonderful fellowship event where we
can unify and give thanks. We have a great time working together and visiting with
new and old friends and family. Come join us for Food, Fellowship and Fun!
SAVE THE DATE: Thursday, October 24 Tickets will be for sale on Sunday, October 6, 13, and 20. Seating is available
every ½ hour starting at 3:30 pm. Prices are the same as last year:
$15 Adults 16 – 60; $14 Seniors 60 and better; $1 per year old Children 5 -15;
4 and under are free. Take-out is available.
SIGN-UPS:
We need everyone’s help to make the Turkey Dinner a success. Starting September 8. You can sign-up online at ttsu.me/turkeydinner or at the
Connection Board to bring food and volunteer. You will receive an email
reminding you of what you volunteered for.
WHAT DO WE NEED? Basically, we need all of you!
Food Donations: 96 pies, cooked cranberries, butter, and
monetary donations.
Items Needed: Roasters, crock pots, and coolers.
Volunteers: Help shop, sell tickets, set-up event,
roast turkeys, cook green beans,
make cranberry sauce, cut pies,
make mashed potatoes, stir gravy, make coffee,
carve turkeys, wash dishes, serve meals, help in
the kitchen, deliver meals, coordinate left-overs,
and clean-up.
Any questions contact Chris Cummins at 651-340-1764 or [email protected].
We
cannot do
it without
you!
VOLUNTEER
There are so many ways you can help make
the Best Turkey Dinner in Town!
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WATER QUALITY FORUM October 3, 2019
7 pm – 9 pm Woodbury Worship Center
Come early for coffee and conversation starting at 6:30 pm
The Grove UMC is partnering with community organizations to hold the East Metro
Water Quality Forum. Speakers include:
• Jay Gustafson, aka Waterway Jay, who paddled all of MN’s water trails to
promote clean water
• Mike Madigan, South Washington Watershed District Secretary
• Keely Cervantes, Conservation Minnesota, East Metro Field Manager
• Deidre Coleman, Freshwater Society Program Coordinator
Also participating will be:
• Water Quality Stewards for the Watershed District
• Minnesota EarthKeepers of the Annual Conference of the United
Methodist Church
• Minnesota Interfaith Power and Light
• League of Women Voters of Woodbury and Cottage Grove
Come and learn why you should care about water quality and what you can do about it!
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Nicole Suyak, [email protected], 651-738-0305, ext. 119
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CREATION STATION BEGINS SEPTEMBER 8
Creation Station is the Christian education program for children 3 years old
through 5th grade.
• 3-year olds and 4-year olds meet in room 102 where they engage in play,
Bible story, craft and music.
• K through 5th grade begin in the worship center with their families.
When the children are dismissed, they will meet in the plaza for music
and Bible story time. Then they will break off into different groups for
small group discussion and crafts.
• This year we are requiring that all families sign their child(ren) out from
Creation Station.
Nursery Registration https://beingthehope.simplechurchcrm.com/external/form/0de57115-be3e-4676-be8e-c60e8fc524f0
Creation Station registration https://beingthehope.simplechurchcrm.com/external/form/87369843-2b69-4ad7-9e81-3b88b849da0d
Volunteer Sign up ttsu.me/volunteer
PRESCHOOL MILESTONE This Is My Church (3 year olds & 4 year olds)
Sunday, September 15, 11:45 am-12:45 pm, Fellowship Hall
This event will introduce the children to our building and our emphasis on
God’s love as well as make them feel more comfortable about coming to
Creation Station.
We will have lunch together and go on a scavenger hunt.
To sign up please contact Nicole [email protected]
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Amy Fuller at [email protected] or 651-738-0305, ext. 121
STUDENT MINISTRY FALL SCHEDULE
All regular 6th-12th grade student ministry happens on Wednesday nights between 6:30 and 8 pm on the
Woodbury Campus.
September 18 JOLT kick off, 6-8 pm, extended time
September 25 FROG, 6th to 9th grade parent/student meeting, 6:30 to 7:30 pm
JOLT, regular time 6:30-8 pm
October 2 FROG—kick off, JOLT continues
What are FROG and JOLT?
FROG is the student ministry program for 6th-9th grade students and stands for “Fully Rely On God.”
JOLT is the 10th-12th grade student ministry program. In both ages, students spend time in small groups,
play games, gather for worship and special events.
Can I bring a friend who doesn’t go to our church?
YES! Friends are ALWAYS welcome. For safety and communication, if friends decide to come
regularly, they should also complete a registration online without payment.
What is Confirmation?
Confirmation is a tradition in our church when students consider saying yes to the vows made by
parents, sponsors and the congregation at their baptism. These vows are typically made the fall of the
10th grade year.
What does Confirmation have to do with FROG?
We do not have a separate Confirmation class or program. Instead, families commit to regular
education and fellowship through the FROG program, worshipping regularly, doing service projects,
and having faith conversations. Confirmation students also participate in 8th and 9th grade retreats, 9th
grade faith partners and the Mountain T.O.P. Mission Trip after their 9th grade year. Students are
traditionally confirmed in October of their 10th grade year. Whether students are considering
confirmation or not, all are welcome to attend FROG.
For those who are considering confirmation, weekly FROG attendance is expected.
How do I register my student(s) for FROG or JOLT?
Visit the online registration links at the bottom of the Student Ministry page on the Grove’s website:
http://thegrovemn.church/ages-and-stages/students
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LEAD SUNDAY WORSHIP
Volunteer to provide a message or lead a service on
any Sunday morning. Contact Dawn Nippoldt at
651-271-1795 or at [email protected].
LUNCH AT NORTH POLE IN NEWPORT
Wednesday, September 10, North Pole (2nd Wed)
Good conversation, good people and good food. Just
come, no reservations needed. Questions? Contact
Muriel Richardson at [email protected] or at
651-459-2805.
CRAFT FELLOWSHIP GROUP
Monday, September 23, 12-2 pm (4nd Monday)
A fun way to get together and work on your craft
project or venture into a new one. Questions?
Contact Royann Kjellberg at [email protected]
or at 651-459-1493.
COFFEE SALES - 3rd Sunday after the service
Fair trade coffee, K-cups, nuts, and chocolate! In
purchasing and using fair trade products, you are
giving support to UMCOR’s Sustainable Agriculture
and Development Program. Watch for Muriel
Richardson on Sundays.
CHOIR PRACTICE
Wednesdays, 7-8:30 pm, Fellowship Hall
The choir will resume practices in the fall. Contact Lea
Anna McGowan at [email protected].
SCRIPTURE READING & SOUP
Bible Study - Thursdays, 11:30 am-12:45 pm
Come for a tasty soup lunch and great conversation!
Read through the Bible and develop spiritually as we
delve into each passage to find out about God’s nature,
what it means to be human, the relationship between
God and humans, and our relationship with and
responsibility to others.
SUNDAY WORSHIP AT COTTAGE GROVE The 9:30 am Sunday morning service at the Cottage Grove Campus provides lay-led services
which are creative and heart-felt. Services are designed and delivered by members of The Grove
community in a format that allows both the presenters and congregation to explore
their spiritual life more fully by being the BODY of Christ in a very real way.
TAI CHI EXERCISE PROGRAM
Thursdays, 1-1:45 pm, Fellowship Hall
Sue Madsen teaches Tai Chi at the Hastings
YMCA. In addition, she will be teaching this
class. Her program includes movements for
better balance and fall prevention using the
principles of Tai Chi to help adults improve
balance and increase confidence to do every day
activities. Class includes warms up, fall
prevention and balance, and a cool down.
Please contact Muriel Richardson at
[email protected] if you are interested in
participating or learning more.
BOX TOPS FOR EDUCATION &
INK CARTRIDGES
This effort supports Armstrong Elementary
School. Collection boxes at both campuses.
(Laser ink cartridges may be donated too.)
VOLUNTEER READERS NEEDED FOR
ARMSTRONG STUDENTS
Beginning late September 2019, volunteers will
once again have the opportunity to spend time working with Armstrong Elementary School primary grade students. The commitment is
usually one hour per week; the schedule is very flexible. To volunteer Contact Paula Christensen
COUNTRY STORE at Cottage Grove
Dec. 6 (12-5 pm) & Dec. 7 (9 am-3 pm)
Let us do your Christmas baking. Come pick up
cookies for that special holiday time! Preorder
strawberry freezer jams and pickled beets by
calling or emailing Royann Kjellberg at
651-459-1493 or at [email protected]
ALSO AVAILABLE greeting cards and homemade crafts.
The Grove United Methodist Church (The Grove) has a
well-established endowment fund.
Hope for the Future.
The fund is designated to help you and your
family establish a legacy gift
where a portion of your gift (up to 3%)
is distributed annually to the ministry
cause of your choice.
Plan A Gift to Your Church
Including your church doesn’t mean forsaking your children. You can provide for both. Simply
state in your will or estate the following:
I give The Grove United Methodist Church Hope for the Future Endowment Fund a specific dollar amount or a percentage of my estate, to be used by the church for the designated need(s) of my choice: general purpose, scholarships, missions, capital needs, and/or worship and music.
(Suggested language for will.)
Your planned gift will make a much greater impact than you can imagine. It may also
provide you with significant tax advantages.
For more information please contact
Pastor Dan Wetterstrom at
651-738-0305, ext. 13 or at [email protected]
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After a busy summer of Skoolie Family Nights,
vacations, and nurturing new people for ministry,
it’s time for an update on the Cottage Grove
Planting Project!
• Pastor Jeremy Peters met and preached with
the Cottage Grove Campus on August 4 and
the Woodbury Campus on August 25. Thank
you, Jeremy, for the inspiring messages!
• Pastor Jeremy is working on a vision
framework for the new church. This
framework lays out the target mission field,
context, values, and brand promise/tagline.
Over the next few weeks, he will be
finalizing the document so it can be
articulated to others.
• On August 28, the Grove Core Team had a
conversation about the church plant and what
a Grove partnership might look like. The
Core Team will be working to set up a
meeting with District Superintendent Cynthia
Williams and Congregational Development
Director Ben Inglebretson to get clarity
around the expectations of the partnership
(financial, people, resources).
• Pastor Jeremy will be scheduling monthly
Vision Gatherings this fall for all interested in
hearing about the project. You are invited!
To get information, like the Facebook page
<facebook.com/theplantingproject> or fill out
the “stay up to date” form on the website
<theplantingproject.org>.
• Pastor Jeremy continues to meet with
community members and leaders—from the
mayor to neighborhood families. If anyone is
interested in helping him connect with others
or canvasing with another survey, please
reach out at [email protected].
As always, if you have questions, please reach out to
Pastor Dan, Pastor Kelly, or Pastor Jeremy.
Cottage Grove
Planting Project Update
FRIDAY BRUNCH - Memory Loss Social
Friday, September 13, 10 am-12 pm (2nd Friday)
Friday Brunch is a ministry for people in our
congregation who have memory loss. Participants
gather at The Grove for two hours to enjoy food,
fellowship, music and socialization. Jane Beckstrom
will send invitations to join this group.
Volunteer: Consider joining other volunteers who
enjoy socializing with preschoolers and participants
with dementia. Lots of fun!
VISITATION TEAM
Congregational Care Ministers (CCMs)
Monday, September 9, 9:30-11am, Room 207
Congregational Care Ministers (CCMS) are lay
volunteers who are trained to listen and provide
emotional and spiritual support to others. CCMs
work alongside our pastors in providing care by:
• Visits (hospital, homebound, care facility)
• Serving communion to members who can no
longer physically attend worship
• Providing a presence on Sunday mornings for
connection & prayer
• Telephoning persons in need of contact
• Following up on prayer requests
• Meeting one-on-one with persons needing a
listening ear, offering prayers & encouragement
• Offering support to grieving families
If you feel called to care for others as a CCM or if
you or someone you care about could benefit from a
visit or call from a CCM, please contact Carolyn
Winslow, Director of Caring Ministries, 651-738-
0305, ext. 129 or at [email protected]
HELPING HANDS TEAM
Through a carefully organized program, our hands
can extend the love of God by offering short-term
help to our church family members in need of
transportation (to church or medical appointments,
for example), meals (following surgery or during an
immediate crisis), grocery shopping or assistance in
other tangible ways. If you feel called to care for
others in very practical and helpful ways or if you are
in need of such assistance, contact: Liz Tracy at
A DRUM CIRCLE
Friday, September 13 w/Pizza, 6:30-8:30 pm
Starting in October 1st & 3rd Friday of the month
For individuals and families living with Autism/
Asperger’s, and for anyone with disabilities or social
challenges who likes music, rhythm and dance. Pizza
on the 3rd Friday at 6:30 pm. Questions? Contact
Dick Hansen at [email protected] or at
651-459-7802.
GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP
Tuesday, Sept. 17, 10 am, Gathering Rm. (3rd Tue)
Join this group if you have lost a loved one (spouse,
parent, sibling, child), or you are a caregiver and
would like to share your story or receive support
from others facing similar life changes. Contact Karen
Eilers at [email protected].
MVNA FLU SHOTS - Mark your calendar!
Sunday, Oct. 6, 10 am-12:30 pm, Gathering Rm.
There are two different flu vaccines this year.
1) Quadrivalent is the regular one for ages 3 and
over. 2) High dose is available for 65 and older.
FLU MIST will not be available.
Don’t forget to bring your insurance card.
GRANDMOTHERS WITH CHALLENGES
Would you or someone you know benefit from a
support group for grandmothers? Grandmothers with
challenges are women who have unique
responsibilitites in the grandmother role. Contact
Caroline King at [email protected] or Dan
Wetterstrom [email protected] to
find out if this group is for you.
KETTLEBELL EXERCISE CLASS
Mondays & Wednesdays, 5:25-6 pm
This class is for those who want a higher level class of
aerobic and strength building. Kettlebell exercise
develops flexibility, coordination and endurance.
Meet John Schultz, a certified Kettlebell instructor
(KBC) $5/class. Questions? Contact John Schultz at
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Carolyn Winslow, [email protected], 651-738-0305, ext. 129 - Upstairs Office 205
Page 15
CARE CORNER
Personal Note from the Director of Caring
Ministries – that’s me, Carolyn Winslow!
I became Director of Caring Ministries here at
The Grove at the end of May. This position
replaces our Parish Nurse ministry. While I am
not a parish nurse like Jane Beckstrom, I do have
a calling to care for and serve the people of The
Grove through this new position. In the months
ahead, I will be working with others to further
develop our Visitation Team ministry, along with
our other Caring Ministries, in order to ensure
that the people of The Grove are well cared for. I
will use this “Care Corner” for a variety of
purposes: providing resources and information
on a variety of care topics, highlighting our
various Caring Ministries and posting learning
opportunities taking place at The Grove and in
the community. I am excited about this
opportunity to serve The Grove and to get to
know more of you!
Visitation Team (fka Caring Friends)
This team of lay volunteers with the title of
Congregational Care Ministers, or CCMs, (more
on that in the October Insites) will work
alongside our pastors to provide care to The
Grove community. A more complete description
of the Visitation Team can be found under the
“Caring Ministries” section of this Insites. CCMs
will meet monthly for training, support, and
encouragement. The hope is to offer two options
for these meetings: the first Monday of each
month from 9:30am-11am and an evening
alternative (day/time yet to be determined) in
order to allow people with daytime jobs to serve
through this ministry. Interested? Please contact
Carolyn Winslow for more information.
Be Aware of
EMAIL SCAMS
Unfortunately, our church has been a victim of
email phishing scams. These involve someone
setting up a fake email address carefully
disguised to look like it is being sent from
someone at the church. The scammers may ask
for money, gift cards, a wire transfer, your
password, or just for you to reach out to help
them with something. Please be aware that no
one from the church will ever ask for anything
financial from you in an email.
If you receive a questionable email, hover over
or double click on the name that it came from.
That will show you what email address it was
actually sent from. Look carefully. They may
have set up a very similar email address such as
adding @gmail.com to the end of the correct
email address. All church email addresses are
either a person’s name, such as
[email protected], or the
person’s role at the church, such as
All of our email addresses are
@beingthehope.org.
Please DO NOT REPLY to the scammer. This
will only make them continue to reach out.
Rather, block the sender. You can do this by
simply right-clicking on the email when it is in
the message list and choosing block or phishing.
If you do not want your personal email address
published in our newsletter or have any
questions, please reach out to Tara Van Berkom
Page 16
WEDNESDAY MORNING BIBLE STUDY
Begins September 11
Wednesdays, 9:30-11 am, Rm. 207
This study will grow and nurture your spirituality by
blending the study of Scripture and books about
Christian faith. Contact Pastor Dan at
FAITHBUILDERS - Book Study for Women
Begins September 11
Wednesdays, 10-11:30 am, Rm. 201
The group will study Holy Envy; Finding God in the Faith of Others by Barbara Brown Taylor. The New York Times bestselling author recounts her moving
discoveries of finding the sacred in unexpected places
while teaching the world’s religions to undergraduates
in rural Georgia. Taylor weaves together stories from
the classroom with reflections on how her own
spiritual journey has been complicated and renewed
by connecting with people of other traditions. The
one constant in her odyssey is the sense that God is
the one calling her to disown her version of God—a
change that ultimately enriches her faith in other
human beings and in God. Questions? Jan Slagter at
[email protected] or 651-739-7719.
GROWING IN FAITH
Begins September 11
Wednesdays, 10-11:30 am, Gathering Rm.
For women seeking to explore faith perspectives
through books and other resources while forming
new relationships. This group is designed for both
long-time and newer women of The Grove who are
seeking a new group. Contact Betty Schilling at
FAITH KEEPERS - United Methodist Women
Tuesday, September 10, 9-11:30 am, Gathering Rm.
This group raises funds for the betterment of
women, children and youth everywhere. They work
together with Faith In Action and Faithbuilders to
promote UMW and what it stands for. All women
are welcome. Contact Jackie Easton at
FAITH IN ACTION
Sunday, Sept. 8, 9:45a-12:15p, Fellowship Hall
The women will serve the meal in two shifts at Kick Off
Sunday. Shifts are from 9:45-10:45 am or from
11:15a-12:15pm. Sign up at ttsu.me/kickoffsunday.
Questions? Jean Roemer at [email protected].
SUNDAY DISCIPLE CLASS
Begins September 8, 10:30-11:30a, Rm. 207
This class dives deep into Scripture, history, and
theology. Contact Roger Nelson at
READERS BOOK CLUB
Monday, October 14, 7-8:30 pm, Gathering Rm.
The group will discuss not meet again until October.
Questions? Contact Darlene Wetterstrom at
WEDNESDAY MORNING MEN’S GROUP
2nd & 4th Wednesday, Rm. 205
Engage in spirited conversation about the Bible,
faith, and everyday life. Contact Dick Larkin at
[email protected] or 651-735-5894.
THURSDAY MORNING MEN’S GROUP
Begins September 12, 7-8 am, Gathering Rm.
Join a group of guys who like to laugh and have a good
time. Through reading and video, participants explore
who they are and how God is impacting their lives.
Contact Lee Slagter at [email protected].
COMPASSION AND JUSTICE TEAM
Tuesday, September 3, Rm. 207 (regularly 1st Mon)
The team builds community connections with
organizations focused on compassion and justice.
Through ongoing support, this team distributes
resources to partner organizations and educates the
church about the work of our community connections.
Questions? Rachel Henzen at [email protected].
Page 17
CONNECT & GROW MEMBERSHIP CLASS
Sunday, August 25, 3:30-5 pm
Gathering Rm. - Childcare provided Learn about our congregation, its ministries, its
values, and the meaning of membership. Find
opportunities to grow through study, service, and
fellowship. If you plan to attend please contact
Pastor Dan at 651-738-0305, ext. 113 or at
RED CROSS BLOOD DRIVE
Friday, October 4, 12-6 pm, Fellowship Hall
Donate blood and give the gift of life or volunteer to
be a hostess. 1) To schedule an appointment, call
the Red Cross at 651-291-4607. Walk-ins are
welcome! 2) Volunteer to staff the sign up table or
the snack table shifts 12-3 pm or 3-6 pm. Contact
Jan Slagter at [email protected] or at
651-739-7719.
THE GIVING RACK
The Giving Rack is accepting clothing for summer
as well as gently used sheets, towels, blankets, pots,
pans, and everyday dishes. Donations may be left at
the Woodbury campus The Giving Rack closet or
at the Cottage Grove campus. Donations may also
be taken directly to The Beloved Church, 1965
Sherwood Ave. St. Paul, Between 2 and 6 pm on
Mondays. Contact Pat Marzolf via email at
[email protected] with questions
SPONSORING WOODBURY COFFEE TIME
SIGN UP at https://ttsu.me/coffeetime or
email Sadie-jo Kobussen at
Sunday morning Coffee Time sponsorships at the
Woodbury campus are a very welcoming gesture to
our visitors. Good news: our attendance is
increasing, and we need more coffee, coffee
supplies, and donuts. Sponsorship of a Sunday
morning coffee and donut time is $100. Thank you
for your support, and thank you for sharing with us
a special moment, occasion, or just the joy of
sharing a cup of coffee and a donut with others on
Sunday morning.
In the Know - - - News You Need about Your Church!
HOPE FOR THE JOURNEY HOME
Volunteer week of September 22-28
Volunteer to host at this family homeless shelter in
Oakdale during this week. A few openings are still
available for individuals, couples, or families to
serve during the dinner shift (flexible start time 4 -
5:30 pm until 8:15) or stay overnight in the guest
room and serve breakfast (8-9:15 am). Contact Pat
Marzolf at [email protected] to volunteer or for
more information.
FAIR TRADE COFFEE
Sunday, September 15, 10 am-12 pm (3rd Sunday)
Fair trade coffee and other products will be on
sale. In purchasing and using fair trade products,
we are giving support to UMCOR’s Sustainable
Agriculture and Development Program.
SCHEDULE MEETING SPACE AT CHURCH
If you need building space from Sept. 1, 2019 to
Aug. 31, 2020, please email Maria Rella. In the
subject of the email indicate Building Request and
provide the following information. No meetings
are scheduled on Wednesdays during the school
year or after 3 pm on Fridays. Meetings need to be
concluded by 9 pm. Meeting spaces must be
reserved in advance. Notify Maria Rella of changes
or cancellations at 651-738-0305 ext. 111 or at
RUMMAGE & BAKE SALE
Saturday, October 12, 9 am-1 pm
Please bring your donations of gently used
clothing, shoes, pots, dishes, beddings, pictures,
etc. Not accepted: TVs, microwaves, computers or
humidifiers. Donations will be accepted starting
Thursday, October 10 in the Atrium. Questions?
Call Jackie Easton at 651-735-4526.
BAKE SALE ITEMS ALSO NEEDED!
Baked goods can be dropped off on Friday or
Saturday before 9 am. Questions? Contact Jean
Roemer at [email protected]. Sale
proceeds will go to missions.
Page 18
Someday Home by Lauraine Snelling
Can three women from different backgrounds find peace and joy in one
home? Lynn has a beautiful lake home. Her husband passed away two
years ago and she can't manage alone. Angela, a successful real estate
agent, suddenly is jilted by her husband of 25 years. Where can she live?
Judith has spent most of her life caring for her ailing father but after his
death, she must leave the only home she ever lived in. Each of these
women needs to find peace and happiness again. Could they all live in
Lynn's home? Enjoy reading! Reviewed by Jackie Easton
One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate
Ivan is a gorilla living in a small zoo. He has been there so long he
hardly ever thinks of his life in the jungle. Ivan meets a baby elephant
who has just moved in. With the animals and he starts to think in
different ways as he talks with her. He works to make his home better
for all. We humans reading this book learn about people and our own
possibilties. Ivan gives us something to think about. Read with your
children and have good discussions.
Review by Bonnie Rohde
THE LITTLE FREE LIBRARY is on Steepleview Road in
the Woodbury Grove, near the pre-school
playground. Please feel free to walk up to this little
library to find a book that interests you or to leave a
book that you've enjoyed and now want to pass on to
the next person.
This is a great time to read and relax. There is more time for children and more time for adults.
Come up to the church library on the second floor and do some exploring.
There are many books on the shelves and more on the library cart. If you are new and have never been
upstairs, you will be surprised by how easy it is to find a good book. Enjoy your Summer reading!
Book Donations
Donations are always welcomed to
the church library. Find the crate
upstairs in the library to put them.
Thank you for your help.
A Monthly Feature Highlighting Ministries We Support Through our Being the Hope Campaign
Page 19
THE GIVING RACK - EASTSIDE RESOURCE CENTER Remember God’s Closet, the long-time free clothing ministry of The Grove and
Epworth UMC on White Bear Ave? It lives on as the Giving Rack. In 2017, the store
became a ministry of The Beloved UMC and moved to their church building at 1965
Sherwood Ave. in St. Paul. With the relocation, the vision for the ministry also grew.
The Eastside Resource Center, a non-profit, was created to create a safe and welcoming
place for all people in the community. Currently, Rebecca’s Pantry provides free food
two Sundays a month, The Giving Rack is open on Monday evenings, and a free meal is
provided by Loaves and Fishes on Monday and Tuesday evenings. The Grove supports
the Giving Rack though donations of in-season clothing, gently used sheets, towels,
dishes, pots and pans. If you have such items, they can be taken to the Beloved from 2-6
P.M. on Mondays or, as an alternative, dropped off at either campus of The Grove. (On
the Woodbury campus, there is a closet in The Plaza area marked Giving Rack.) Volunteers are also needed.
For more information contact Pat Marzolf via email at [email protected].
The Grove is supporting The Eastside Resource Center with $1000 through Being the Hope.
PROJECT AGGRAD
How can we address the root causes of world hunger in developing countries? The
MN Annual Conference created a program to do just that. Appropriately named
Project AgGrad, this project brings students from developing countries to the University
of Minnesota to pursue graduate degrees in agriculture. Upon graduation, they return to
their homeland to share their knowledge. They may conduct research, supervise other
graduate students in their countries, mentor farmer groups, work with volunteer and
professional groups or give leadership in thousands of other ways. Project AgGrad
covers the cost of the student's travel from their home country to Minnesota (and back
home at the end of their program) as well as a fellowship that provides tuition, health
insurance, and a small stipend. The cost of the fellowship is approximately $42,000 per
year. The program relies on funds from individuals and congregations and volunteers who provide
administrative support and host-family duties.
The Grove is contributing $1000 to Project Ag Grad through Being the Hope.
UMCOR – United Methodist Committee on Relief Responding to the many disasters in today’s world is more than any one individual or
local church can handle. That is why UMCOR was founded many decades ago and
provides a unified effort by United Methodists. The purpose of UMCOR is to bring
God’s hope, healing and renewal to those whose lives have been disrupted by war,
conflict or natural disaster. Operating in over 80 countries, UMCOR offers temporary
relief, and when the world’s attention has faded, it provides ongoing assistance with
longer term education, training and support. UMCOR is ready to act quickly when
disaster strikes due to UMCOR Sunday, a collection is taken to cover UMCOR’s
administrative costs. When there is a disaster in any part of the world, the structure is
already in place. 100% of the funds designated for a disaster area go toward their
intended destination and the people in need. The Grove supports UMCOR with
$1000 for National Disaster Relief, $1000 for International Disaster Relief, and $1000 for UMCOR Sunday.
Page 20
Cottage Grove Campus
8600 90th Street South, Cottage Grove, MN 55016
Campus Phone: 651-769-1303
Main Office Phone: 651-738-0305
Sunday Worship Schedule
9:30 am
Woodbury Campus
7465 Steepleview Road, Woodbury, MN 55125
Main Office Phone: 651-738-0305
Email: [email protected]
Office Hours: Mon-Thu (8 am-3 pm), Fri (8-Noon)
Sunday Worship Schedule
9 & 10:30 am
CHURCH STAFF
Rev. Daniel Wetterstrom, Lead Pastor — [email protected]
Rev. Kelly Lamon, Associate Pastor — [email protected]
Nicole Suyak, Minister to Families w/Children — [email protected]
Amy Fuller, Minister to Families w/Students — [email protected]
Carolyn Winslow, Director of Caring Ministries — [email protected]
Jordyn Yourczek, Family Ministry Program Assistant —
Kelley Kluz, Infant & Child Caregiver — [email protected]
Sadie-jo Kobussen, Welcome & Worship Coordinator —
Robin Muscoplat, Media Specialist, [email protected]
Tara Van Berkom, Records & Registration Manager —
Roberta Wiig, Business Administrator — [email protected]
Maria Rella, Office Manager & Building Scheduler —
Jim Tousignant, Facilities Manager — [email protected]
MUSIC MINISTRY
Rick Murphy, Contemporary Music — [email protected]
Lou Ann Henderson, Woodbury Chancel Choir Director,
Jan Rasmussen, Steeple Bells — [email protected]
Grant Buse, Audio Technician — [email protected]
Lea Anna McGowan, Cottage Grove Choral Music — [email protected]
Jean Hendrickson, Cottage Grove Pianist — [email protected]
WOODBURY PRESCHOOL AT THE GROVE Julie Johnson, Woodbury Preschool at The Grove —
Office hours at the Woodbury
campus are Mon-Fri (8 am-3pm).
The phone will be answered
during those hours. When the
phone is not answered, leave a
private message for any members
of the staff. Directions are given
on the phone system.
Church Leadership
The responsibility for the
day-to-day administrative tasks
of the church has been
invested in the Core Team.
The team functions as the
primary lay-clergy partnership to
provide guidance and direction
to ministries.
Betsy Stites – Chair
Jill Easton – Secretary
Roberta Wiig – Business Adm.
Jennifer Edney
Kevin Henderson
Rev. Kelly Lamon
Charlie Maier
Rick Osborn
Rev. Daniel Wetterstrom