FEATURES 4 Feed My Starving Children Coming

to Mount Olivet500 volunteers needed to pack 95,000 meals!

5 Staff UpdateMeet John Henrich, the new director of the Mount Olivet Counseling Service.

6 Reformation 500 See this quarter’s Reformation 500 events and opportunities.

7 Epiphany and LutherDiscover what Martin Luther explored and held up in his sermons during Epiphany.

14 Capital Campaign UpdateMount Olivet builds for the future with West Expansion and East Addition.

www.mtolivet.org

JAN 2017VOLUME 5, ISSUE 1

Light and LifeJust after the darkest time of the year, the earth rotates on

its axis to bring the sun back into our lives, one day at a time. So, the season of Epiphany celebrates the Light that has come into the world. We will hear gospel texts about Jesus as the Light of the world. Speci� cally, the gospels read will be about the Baptism of Jesus, John the Baptist’s further testimony about the Christ, the beginning of Jesus’ public ministry and the calling of the disciples. � e month concludes with the Sermon on the Mount.

On Sat, Jan 21, there will be a FEED MY STARVING CHILDREN

MOBILE PACKING EVENT at the Mpls Campus – the goal is to package 95,000 meals for people in need in Jamaica. Carol and I will be there along with our grandchildren. It is a great opportunity for an intergenerational service project. Join us! See page 4 for more information.

At the Mpls Campus, on Jan 29, we will welcome back to the pulpit the REV. CRAIG E. JOHNSON, interim pastor at Mount Olivet from 2011 to 2014. We owe so much to Pastor Johnson for stabilizing and advancing the congregation following the sudden death of Rev. Paul Youngdahl. He is known for his excellent pulpit messages and engaging style. Come and give a warm welcome to Pastor Johnson.

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JAN 2017VOLUME 5, ISSUE 1

A Newsletter for Members & Friends of Mount Olivet Lutheran Church | Believing, Belonging, Becoming

PHOTOS: FRESH COATING OF SNOW AT THE WEST CAMPUS BY DEB KIND (LEFT) AND AT THE MPLS CAMPUS BY PETER STRATMOEN (RIGHT)

ACCESSIBILITY & HEARING AIDS Both the Mpls and West Campus church sanctuaries are handicapped accessible. At Mpls, use the elevator located in the main entry to go to the sanctuary on the 2nd level. At West, enter through the doors under the canopy to go to the sanctuary. Hearing aids also are available at the information desk in the narthex area at the Mpls and West Campuses.

NURSERYChildren 6wks to 3yrs are invited to the nurseries at the Mpls and West Campuses during the 9,10 & 11am worship services. The nurseries are located adjacent to Fellowship Hall on the lower level of both campuses. Questions: Amy Porthan amyp@mtolivet.org.

RADIO/ONLINEGo to www.mtolivet.org or tune to WDGY 740AM at 11am for the radio broadcast of the Mpls Campus Sunday morning worship and the Faith Alive program with Pastor Terry Morehouse.

PRAYER & PRAISE is a short midweek service led by our Mount Olivet pastors for members, visitors, and staff. These special services are a wonderful opportunity to pause during our busy lives and participate in a devotional moment during the week. Communion is served the fi rst and third Wednesdays of each month. Prayer & Praise services are held at 10am on Wednesdays in the Mpls main sanctuary.

Join Us for Worship! MINNEAPOLIS CAMPUS5025 KNOX AVE SMINNEAPOLIS, MN 55419 612.926.7651

WEST CAMPUS7150 ROLLING ACRES RDVICTORIA, MN 55386952.767.1500

SUN, JAN 1� e First Sunday of Christmas NO Nursery, Sunday School or The WayMPLS 10 & 11am Sermon: Pastor Gilmore Music: Richard Owen, organWEST 10am Sermon: Pastor Youngdahl Music: Lisa Lozito, piano

WED, JAN 4Prayer & Praise CommunionMPLS 10am

SUN, JAN 8� e Baptism of Our Lord & Winter Rally SundayHoly Communion 8:30am and after the last service; Sunday School, The Way, and Nursery at 9, 10,11amMPLS 9, 10, 11am & 12noon Sermon: Pastor Bakken Music: Senior & Cathedral Choirs;

Amanda Jenkins, sopranoWEST 9, 10 & 11am Sermon: Pastor Johnson Music: Senior & Cathedral Choir;

Greg Dokken, baritone

WED, JAN 11Prayer & Praise MPLS 10am

SUN, JAN 15� e Second Sunday after EpiphanyHoly Communion 8:30am and after the last service; Sunday School, The Way, and Nursery at 9, 10,11am

MPLS 9, 10, 11am & 12noon Sermon: Pastor Johnson Music: Senior & Cathedral Choirs; Justin

Staebell, baritoneWEST 9, 10 & 11am Sermon: Pastor Cornils Music: Senior & Cathedral Choir;

Linda Berger & Lisa Lozito, keyboard duets

WED, JAN 18Prayer & Praise MPLS 10am

SUN, JAN 22� e � ird Sunday after EpiphanyHoly Communion 8:30am and after the last service; Sunday School, The Way, and Nursery at 9, 10,11am

MPLS 9, 10, 11am & 12noon Sermon: Pastor Hammersten Music: Senior & Cathedral Choirs;

Joyful Noise!WEST 9, 10 & 11am Sermon: Pastor Youngdahl Music: Senior & Cathedral Choir;

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WED, JAN 25Prayer & Praise CommunionSUN, JAN 29� e Fourth Sunday after EpiphanyHoly Communion 8:30am and after the last service; Sunday School, The Way, and Nursery at 9, 10,11amMPLS 9, 10, 11am & 12noon Sermon:

Pastor Craig Johnson Music: Chancel &

Chapel Choirs; Chancel Ringers

WEST 9, 10 & 11am Sermon: Pastor Bakken Music: Chancel & Chapel Choirs;

Teresa Elsbernd, mezzo soprano

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2017 promises to be a banner year for Mount Olivet. We will launch a CAPITAL CAMPAIGN FOR OUR WEST CAMPUS

to construct a new and exciting building to spur the growth of this already rapidly growing expression of Mount Olivet. And, will be launching a � nal push for the new MPLS

CAMPUS EAST ADDITION for music and education. Our theme might well be: Come and grow with us! See more on page 14.

Most exciting of all will be becoming better acquainted with our SENIOR PASTOR-ELECT, DAVID LOSE, who will be making appearances at our two campuses on occasional Sunday mornings, interviewing sta� members, and consulting widely about his strategic vision for Mount Olivet. His goal is to be prepared to “hit the ground running” when he o� cially arrives this summer.

In college, I had majors in English and History. I was a student of the poems of John Milton. In Lycidas, Milton re� ects on the death of his friend, a young and faithful cleric. Milton uses the occasion to chastise lax clergy with whom he was acquainted:

Blind mouths! that scarce themselves know how to hold A sheep-hook, or have learn’d aught else the least � at to the faithful herdman’s art belongs!

He later notes the consequences of their laxity, “� e hungry sheep look up and are not fed … !”

I am grati� ed by the notes of appreciation I get for OUR PASTORS and their ministry, from the preaching and teaching they do to the faithful pastoral care visits they make in hospitals and homes. � ey are, each one, shepherds who care for the � ock. � ey know the “herdsman’s art.” � ey have the heart of shepherds. � ey work diligently on the messages they prepare (lest the hungry be not fed)! I am proud to call them friends and colleagues.

PASTOR DENNIS J. JOHNSONINTERIM SENIOR PASTOR

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BaptismsParker Grace Anderson, daughter of Sara and MitchellNolan Douglas Anderson, son of Emily and MatthewRose Marie Aul, daughter of Nicole and NathanPenn Maximus Bergquist, son of Kayla and NelsBeckham Brody Bergquist, son of Kayla and NelsBennett Philip Boehm, son of Jennifer and MarkGrace Delaine Bosacker, daughter of Linda and PeterAnna Katherine Burgan, daughter of Rochelle and BrianGrace Julia Calef, daughter of Julie and ChrisMarvin Jack Celt, son of Brittany and AdamDerek Geoffrey Hansen, son of Jennifer and GeoffreyEdward Paul Holbrook, son of Amy and MattLaken Jesse Johnson, son of Stephanie and JesseChloe Jane Kornecki, daughter of Emily and DaveKai Stanley Kruger, son of Jillian and SeanGraham Michael Levins, son of Taryn and MichaelBryce Allan Meinhardt, son of Brenda and JosephFritz John Otteson, son of Jennifer and BrettDecker James Pihl, son of Katie and PaulReagan Marjorie Pihl, daughter of Katie and PaulEmma Grace Raisbeck, daughter of Laura and WilliamWilliam Charles Ralles, son of Jennifer and DanielLiam Peter Snyder, son of Natalie and PeterQuinn Georgia Stadelman, daughter of Megan and DavidDylan Serena Stockness, daughter of Michelle and

Christopher

WeddingsJenna Squires & James Knutson, December 3

Deaths Terry Bailey, 1949 - 2016Mary Jane Bolmgren, 1917 - 2016(George) Paul Denecke, 1927 - 2016Margaret J. Fagrelius, 1920 – 2016Paul J. Hayek, 1933 - 2016Bernard I. Larson, 1918 - 2016Faith E. Leonardson, 1926 - 2016Joanne C. Mathison, 1928 - 2016Nancy J. Persian, 1934 - 2016Beatrice M. Petersen, 1925 - 2016Vernon R. Strong, 1927 - 2016Duane D. Walton, 1932 - 2016

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BOOK RECOMMENDATION: I am happy to recommend a new book by our FORMER BISHOP HERB CHILSTROM. It is a most enjoyable look at a most distressing time in our nation: the depression years. � e book title is I almost missed THE GREAT DEPESSION – America’s darkest hour and how one family of ten survived it. You can order it from Chilstrom Books, 635 S Park Centre Ave #2121, Green Valley, AZ 85614. Enclose a check for $19.95. All proceeds will bene� t students at Luther Seminary.

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Devotions “He has told you, O mortal, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?” MICAH 6:8

Next month a group of Mount Olivet members will be partaking in a mission trip to Guatemala, a trip I have been on numerous times. For the last four years we have been in partnership with two small, rural, farming communities. In these towns, homes are made of boards and roofs pieced together in tin, � oors that are packed dirt, and beds consisting of two wooden planks placed side by side. I remember the � rst time I traveled there, I walked into the village with more in my backpack than these people had in their homes. I turned to the missionary and asked her: “Do you ever feel guilty that you have so much, and they have so little? Her reply was, “No, I didn’t come here to live in poverty with them. I came to proclaim the Word of God and to help raise them up closer to our level.” It all started to click for me. Yes, we meet our brothers and sisters in Christ where they are, but then we do what we can as we join them arm-in-arm to lift them up to a more sustainable level of living. We share ourselves, our gifts, our resources, our time, and our attention. We aren’t called to sit in ashes and live as poor men and women, but rather we are called to action to serve the poor, the hungry, the thirsty, the meek, the persecuted – those very people who are blessed by the love of Jesus Christ.

Almighty God, you sustain us daily with a never-ending love found only in Jesus Christ. Help us to recognize the ways that we have been blessed, and to share with others the goodness that comes from walking in your ways. Amen. – PASTOR DREW BAKKEN

Feed My Starving Children® Coming to Mount OlivetMPLS Sa 1/21 9am-7pm, Fellowship Hall. As part of our Reformation 500 95 Acts of Service, Feed My Starving Children will be coming to Mount Olivet. FMSC is a Christian non-pro� t organization committed to feeding God’s

children hungry in body and spirit. � e approach is simple – children and adults hand pack meals speci� cally formulated for malnourished children, and the meals are shipped to distribution partners. FMSC meals have reached nearly 70 countries around the world. We are partnering with Bethlehem Lutheran church to reach a goal of 95,000 meals packaged for people in need in Jamaica. � is e� ort requires 500 VOLUNTEERS OVER 3 SHIFTS IN JUST

ONE DAY! Register for this all-congregation event through www.mtolivet.org (click on the Feed My Starving Children link to go to the FMSC online registration where you can volunteer or donate (each meal costs 22¢ to produce). � ree shifts: 9-11am, 12noon-2pm, and 2:30-4:30pm. Set-up and clean-up volunteers also needed. Nursery will be provided for children 0-5 during the 9-11am shift. Children 6+ are welcome during any shift. All are welcome!

trip to Guatemala, a trip I have been on numerous times. For

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brochure at church or visit www.mtolivet.org. See right for information on the congregation intergenerational FEED MY

STARVING CHILDREN event on 1/21!(1) Wrapping for Christmas Share. (2) Thursday Friends celebrating Halloween. (3) Service with a smile at the November Men’s Dinner. (4) Generations helping serve at The Sheridan Story.

See below for photos of 95 Acts of Service

Feed My Starving ChildrenFeed My Starving ChildrenFeed My Starving

to Mount OlivetMPLSHall.500 95 Acts of Service, Feed My Starving Children will be coming to Mount Olivet. FMSC is a

children hungry in body and spirit. � e approach is simple – children and adults hand pack meals speci� cally

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Staff Update We are pleased to announce that JOHN R.

HENRICH, PsyD, LP has been hired as the new director of the Mount Olivet Counseling Service, where he has been working part time since 2011. He replaces Dr. Gary Wilkerson who is retiring. John holds a B.A. in English from Muhlenberg College, Allentown, PA (1973), an M.Div. from the Lutheran � eological Seminary at Philadelphia (1979), and a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD.) degree from the Minnesota School of Professional Psychology /Argosy University (1998). He is a licensed psychologist in Minnesota and ordained ELCA pastor. John is an adjunct associate professor in the MA Counseling Psychology program at St. Mary’s University of the Twin Cities, where he’s taught graduate courses in psychology for the past 13 years.

John is married to Sarah Henrich, an ELCA pastor and professor, and they have two adult sons. He sings in semi-professional choruses (VocalEssence & the Minnesota Chorale) and enjoys reading, � shing, kayaking, and biking.

The People Who Have Walked in Darkness Have Seen a Great Light

� is is an especially good year to embrace the season of Epiphany which begins January 6, and continues throughout the winter to Lent. Referring to the light of the new born Christ glowing and growing throughout the world, Epiphany identi� es what each of us experience each day: yes, the world is a dark place! Light has arrived as a gracious intervention from God. Light has a name: Jesus – the light of the world!

Why such a good year to embrace the season of Epiphany? Pastor Tim Keller asserts in his newest book, Hidden Christmas: � e Surprising Truth Behind the Birth of Christ, “� e message (of Christmas which we carry into Epiphany) is that when we feel con� dent, we feel like the democratic process will work, or technology will work, or that we have what it takes to meet our own personal challenges, the message (of the Bible) negates all that. � e world is a dark place. � ere are places in the Bible … where God says, ‘You think you can kindle your own � re, but you have to look to me for your light.’”

Please note in this splendid edition of the Mount Olivet Messenger several signi� cant events and opportunities in coming weeks which are o� ered with light from above. Most of all, you and I will discover an antidote for darkness as we begin each week in worship – encountering the light of Christ present in preaching, sacraments, singing and spirited praise. Taking our cue from the prophet Isaiah, as set to music in Handel’s Messiah, � e people who walked in darkness have seen a great light. – PASTOR STEPHEN CORNILS

JAN 2017 FROM PASTOR KALLAND

1 Revelation 21.5 Everything New2 Isaiah 65.17 New Heaven and New Earth3 Psalm 33.3 Sing a New Song4 Colossians 3.9-10 Put On New Self5 Lamentations 3.22-23 New Every Morning6 Ecclesiastes 3.1-8 Time for Everything7 Ezekiel 11.19 New Spirit8 Romans 6.6-7 Set Free9 2 Corinthians 5.17 New Creation10 Isaiah 42.9 New Things11 Ephesians 4.22-24 New Attitude, New Self12 Psalm 40.3 A New Song in My Mouth13 Isaiah 43.19 A New Thing14 Deuteronomy 31.6 Never Leave of Forsake15 Jeremiah 29.11 Plans for You16 Isaiah 41.10 I Am With You17 Psalm 46.1-3 Our Refuge and Strength18 Isaiah 26.3 Prefect Peace19 Habakkuk 3.19 Enables Me20 Psalm 119.114 Refuge, Shield, Hope21 Proverbs 18.10 Fortifi ed Tower22 Psalm 29.11 Blesses With Peace23 Philippians 4.13 Do All Things24 Isaiah 40.29 Strength to the Weary25 Ephesians 3.16 Your Inner Being26 Psalm 34.8 Taste and See27 Joshua 10.25 Strong and Courageous28 Philippians 3.10-11 The Power of the Resurrection29 Zechariah 4.6 By My Spirit30 Exodus 15.2 My Salvation31 Romans 8.31 God Is For Us

throughout the winter to Lent. Referring to the light

T H I N K I N G W I T H . . . P A S T O R C O R N I L SDaily Readings

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My Mt Olivet &Church DirectoryVisit www.mtolivet.org/mymtolivet to view the online church directory (always current), listen to sermons, register for events with one click, make a donation, and more! Get connected with My Mt Olivet today! Questions: Call Member Records or Finance O� ce at 612.926.7651.

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This Quarter’s Reformation 500 Events & Opportunities

Wow! What a tremendous response we had to our many fall o� erings centered on Martin Luther, Lutheranism, and the

Reformation. � e rich bounty continues for the winter term, as you can see below. For details on individual events, see pages 6-9 or visit www.mtolivet.org.

• Wednesday (Mpls) & Thursday (West) Word Morning Studies: Luther’s 7 Marks of the Church & the Christian Life – Jan 11/12, 18/19, 25/26, Feb 1/2, 8/9• Women’s Book Discussion: When Lightning Struck – Jan 11, 18, 25, Feb 1• Prayer that Prevails with Dr. Michael Chan – Jan 12 & 19• A Walk Through the Augsburg Confessions with Dr. Mark Tranvik –

Jan 17, 24,31, Feb 7• Mobile Faith Discussion on Martin Luther – Jan 18• 95 Acts of Service Feed My Starving Children Event – Jan 21• AGAPE at West Campus Confi rmation – Jan 25• Women’s Weekend 2017: Re-Formed by Grace! – Jan 27-29• Beyond Disagreement: A Conversation between Luther and Feminists on

Sin, Suffering, and the Cross with Dr. Deanna Thompson – Feb 2, 9• Eco-Reformation – Mar 2, 9, 16 & 23• Mobile Faith Discussion: Adult Confi rmation – Mar 15, 22, 29 & Apr 5• Day Lenten Journey: Launching Lent with Luther, The Horror and Glory of the

Cross with Dr. Mark Tranvik – Mar 7

ADULT LEARNING• Living the Message Pastor’s

Introduction to Proverbs MPLS M 1/9 7-8pm Rm 482-86. Join PASTOR STEPHEN

CORNILS for this intro to Proverbs, a � tting beginning to the New Year! NOTE: � is intro is 1 week later than usual.

• Luther: His Greatest Hits and His Enemies WEST M 1/9 & 1/16

7-8:30pm Admin Bldg Choir Rm. � e � rst evening of this class, internationally recognized Reformation scholar DR. MARY

JANE HAEMIG will help us explore Luther’s most popular writings as well as his success as a publishing and publicity phenomenon. � e second evening we will examine Luther’s views of and struggles with the Jews, the Turks, the Papists, and others with whom he “wrestled.” Cost: Donation.

• Wednesday & Thursday Word: Signs of Belonging –

Luther’s Seven Marks of the Church MPLS W 1/11-2/8 10:30-11:30am Rm 482-86 (optional small group discussion 11:30am-12noon). WEST � 1/12-2/9 10-11:30am Narthex. For Luther, seven qualities or “signs” identi� ed the body of Christ in the world. Join your MOUNT OLIVET

PASTORS (a di� erent one each week!) to learn how these marks de� ne the corporate body of Christ and connect with the lives of individual Christians. Cost: Donation.

• Prayer that Prevails MPLS � 1/12 & 1/19 7-8:30pm Rm 482-86.

For Martin Luther, faithful prayer is bold, daring, and audacious – the kind that clings to God’s promises, even when God seems to be silent. � is class explores some of Luther’s most provocative teachings on prayer from his late and colorful commentaries in Genesis. Cost: $10. Register www.mtolivet.org.

• A Walk Through the Augsburg Confession

MPLS Tu 1/17, 1/24, 1/31, 2/7 7-8:30pm Rm 482-86. No document has been more important for Lutheran identity than the Augsburg Confession. And it wasn’t even written by Martin Luther! Join DR. MARK

TRANVIK, Professor of Religion, Augsburg College, to explore why this writing still

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2017 Women’s Retreat: Re-Formed by Grace

3pm Fr 1/27 to 1pm Su 1/29, Mount Olivet Conference & Retreat Center. At the start of each new year, voices in society

encourage us to make resolutions, start fresh, and plan for more joy and less sorrow. As we know, however, sorrows come even into the best-laid plans for joy. How do we Christians make sense of Paul’s claim that “God’s grace is su� cient for you,” (2 Corinthians 12:9) in a world where sorrow sometimes seems stronger than joy? DR. DEANNA THOMPSON, Professor of Religion at Hamline University and notable author, will help us re� ect on what it means to be “Re-Formed by Grace” in our joyous and sorrowful lives. You are invited to join us for a weekend of warm community, rest and renewal, and shared stories. Cost: $225 single (if available), $175pp double, $140pp dorm. Register: Kaylene Retka 952.469.2175 kretka@mtolivetretreat.org.

Reformation 500 You are invited to participate in a wide array of experiences, events, and opportunities related to Reformation 500, our yearlong celebration noting the 500th anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther’s posting of the 95 � eses – a new era of grace for our Lord’s church. Watch for the Reformation 500 symbol and see the Reformation 500 guide available at church or at www.mtolivet.org for more information.

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EPIPHANY AND LUTHER� e word epiphany comes from a Greek word epiphainein

meaning to reveal. To have an epiphany is to suddenly perceive the essential nature or meaning of something, to grasp a reality, or to make an illuminating discovery. In the Christian Church, the season of Epiphany encourages such epiphanies – in particular as regards the true nature and gift of Christ.

� e season begins on January 6, a day commemorating the arrival of wise men from faraway lands who followed a star to the place where the baby Jesus had been born in Bethlehem.

Depending on when Ash Wednesday falls, the season is four to nine weeks in length. It is bracketed by the � rst Sunday, which recalls Jesus’ Baptism and the last Sunday, which remembers Jesus’ Trans� guration. On both occasions, God speaks from the heavens, con� rming who Jesus is (Matthew 3:13-17; 17:1-8). It is not surprising, then, that the other weeks of Epiphany also are spent examining the many ways Jesus is revealed to be no ordinary baby, child, or man. We learn and celebrate that this infant child was indeed God made � esh, a light shining in our midst to bring us out of darkness, a worker of miracles who could turn water into wine, heal the in� rm, restore life to the dead, and bring salvation to the world. � ese are the things Martin Luther explored and held up in his sermons during Epiphany, praying as he did that his hearers would experience divine revelation through the Holy Spirit of God’s gracious gift of salvation through Christ.

Rarely did such sermons end without Luther also lifting up that having been given the gift of Christ and freed from sin, we now are free to follow Christ’s example: Serve our neighbors. Share our physical and spiritual blessings. Exercise love. Tell the gospel to all we meet. In all ways, be “little Christs” in the world.

Luther Fun Fact By the end of his life, Martin Luther wrote 60,000 pages, yet he hoped that “all my books would disappear and the Holy Scriptures alone be read.”Luther Quote “I didn’t learn my theology all at once.

I had to ponder over it ever more deeply, and my spiritual trials were of help to me, for one does not learn anything without practice” (Luther’s Works, Vol. 54, p. 50).

matters for the life and faith of the church today. Cost: Donation.

• MObile Faith Discussion: “Martin Luther” MPLS W 1/18

7-8:30pm Lounge. Martin Luther was saint and sinner with a larger-than-life persona and a humble man. Explore this online course through MObile Faith, then discuss this man who sparked the Reformation and his legacy that still in� uences us today. Facilitator: LIZ OTTESON.

• Eat to Thrive MPLS M 1/30 7-8:30pm Lounge. We are fearfully and wonderfully made by God, but many of us feel less-than-wonderful about our eating habits. Learn to listen to the unique body God gave you and choose foods that build you up, help you feel your best, and give you energy to do God’s good work. In this workshop, Mount Olivet members KRIS

ROACH and EMILY BRAINERD will give you the nutritional science and spiritual inspiration that can transform the way you eat – and feel – with simple, doable dietary changes. Cost: $15. Register by 1/25.

• Beyond Disagreement: A Conversation Between

Luther and Feminists on Sin, Suffering, and the Cross MPLS � 2/2 & 2/9 7-8:30pm Rm 482-86. Martin Luther once said that for Christians “the cross alone is our theology.” Over the past several decades, feminists and others have been critical of Christian preoccupation with the death of Jesus, arguing against the focus on sin and su� ering that accompanies a theology of the cross. Join Hamline Professor of � eology DR. DEANNA

THOMPSON for this two-part series where we will focus on Luther’s views of the cross, on feminist critiques, and on � ompson’s proposal for a way forward. Cost: $10. Register www.mtolivet.org.

• Living the Message Pastor’s Introduction to Song of Solomon MPLS M 2/6 7-8pm Rm 482-86. Join PASTOR STEPHEN CORNILS for this introduction to this book of love that o� ers insight into God’s love for us.

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INTEREST GROUPS• 7th Mount Olivet Arizona Round-

Up! Su 3/5 11am Living Water Lutheran Church, Scottsdale, AZ. Join PASTOR CORNILS

the 11am Service at Living Water Lutheran Church, followed by brunch at Pinnacle Peak Country Club. All also are welcome to dinner at Ristorante Arrivederci.

• Candlelight Yoga WEST Su 1/22 6-7:30pm Gronseth Fellowship Hall. Join Inspiration Circle for an evening to take care of you. Led by professional instructors and Mount Olivet members, KARIN JUNGE (yoga) and LISA DOMYAHN (mediation). For all � tness levels. Bring yoga mat, towel, water bottle. Cost: $5. Register: online, 1/22 after WEST services, or 30min before event.

• Christ in Your Recovery MPLS � 1/12-4/6 7-8pm 1700 Chapel Sanctuary & Lower Level. Join PASTOR GRETCHEN ENOCH for this 13-week, 12-step Bible study using � e Life Recovery Workbook: A Biblical Guide through the Twelve Steps. � is Christ-centered study is for everyone in recovery as well as family and friends. Cost: $60 (includes workbook and Bible). Register by 1/5: www.mtolivet.org.

• Flying Solo: Skating and Hot Cocoa (singles 40s-60s) Su 1/8 Skating 4-5:30pm Centennial Lakes, Fellowship 5:30-7pm Pinstripes. Skate rental available.

• Holy Yoga (Chair) MPLS M, W 12:15-1:15pm Gym. Taught by certi� ed instructors, chair holy yoga provides a great physical and spiritual boost to your day, while not requiring you to get down and up from the � oor. Cost: $5 per session. No registration.

• Men’s Breakfasts Tu 7am, Rich� eld VFW; � 7am, Chanhassen Perkins. Cost: Food o� menu.

• Quilting MPLS M 6:30-8:30pm Rm 196-98.• Ski Club W Jan-Mar, Afton Alps. Meet on

the 2nd � oor of the Alps Chalet at 8:30am. Join us for lunch in Paul’s Restaurant at 12noon. Receive discounted rates for lift tickets and rentals. Questions: Bob Ferris 952.443.3344 or Jon Holcombe at 952.934.2522.

• Spiritual Energy Healing MPLS 2nd & 4th M 6-9:30pm 1700 Chapel Lower

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Friends Forever: Rise Up, O Men (50+) W 2/1 11:30am-2:30pm, Green Mill & Plymouth Playhouse. Join for lunch and the play “Rise Up, O Men” at the Plymouth Playhouse. Items for the Jamaica Mission trip also will be collected at this event (see Friends Forever page at www.mtolivet.org for more info). “Rise Up, O Men,” sixth in the Church Basement Ladies series, is a brand new musical comedy featuring the men of the church and your favorite church basement ladies. As these hard-working farmers discuss their scrap lumber piles and bene� ts of weld vs. solder, they unintentionally disrupt the order of the kitchen. But that’s what happens when you let the rooster in the hen house! Cost: $38 (includes lunch and play). Register by 1/8 online or contact Josh Nelson 612.767.2284 joshn@mtolivt.org.

Forever page at www.mtolivet.org for more info). “Rise

9th Motorheads Winter Event Tu 2/21 Park & Shuttle from WEST Campus, Arrive Between 5:30pm & 7pm (shuttles run continuously until 9pm). Invite a friend and come “talk cars” at this fun gathering at WARREN HERREID’S

AMAZING GARAGE COMPLEX. Enjoy delicious food, interesting displays,

devotions, and a replica of SCOOBY DOO’S MYSTERY MACHINE! $8 in advance (nonrefundable, must be paid by 2/19), $10 at the door, $5 youth 18 & under.

Ladies’ Night MPLS M 2/27 6:30pm Fellowship Hall. � is year’s event features Mount Olivet member and Twin Cities’ restaurateur STEPHANIE SHIMP. co-founder of Blue Plate Restaurant Company. Come hear Stephanie’s talk: “5 � ings I’d Like to See Come Back.” Dinner will be provided by Blue Plate. Cost: $15. Registration begins 1/4. MEN SERVE AT LADIES’ NIGHT To volunteer, contact: Jenny Nellis 612.926.7651 jnellis@mtolivet.org.

9th Motorheads Winter Event Tu 2/21 Park & Shuttle from

devotions, and a replica of

2nd Men’s Fulton Brewery Tour M 2/6 6:30-10pm Meet at MPLS

Campus Main Doors. Cost: $20 includes Black Sheep pizza, salad bar,

brewery tour, history of Fulton, non-alcoholic beverages (Citrus Ginger Ale, etc), transportation, laughs, and fellowship! Fulton beers will be available for purchase. Register by 2/1.

includes Black Sheep pizza, salad bar, brewery tour, history of Fulton, non-

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Ski Club: Lutsen Trip 3/3-3/5 Lutsen Mountain. Featuring: downhill skiing, cross country skiing, snowshoeing, swimming, Sunday morning Holy Communion service, and breakfast with PASTOR ENOCH. All ages welcome. Stay on Lusten Mountain at Caribou Highlands Lodgewith a group discount (limit 50). Contact: Josh Nelson 612.767.2284 joshn@mtolivet.org.

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Level. Learn how prayer, God’s power, and the natural energy paths within the body can bring comfort and healing. No cost. Contact: Carol � rontveit 612.767.2246 carolt@mtolivet.org.

• Young Adult Ministry (22-28yrs) Visit www.mtolivet.org to see all the easy ways you can involved. “Like” the YAM Facebook page to get devotions. PICK-UP

BASKETBALL MPLS M 8-9pm Gym. • Young in Heart Luncheons

MPLS Tu 1/24 12noon-2pm Fellowship Hall. Entertainment: BLOOMINGTONES. Cost: $9. Donations to Pastor Scott’s On-Call Ministry encouraged. Register by 1/20: 612.926.7651.

• Young Marrieds Winter Family Event MPLS Su 2/26 4-6pm Fellowship Hall. Join us for kid- and adult-friendly activities, dinner, and devotions. More details and registration coming soon!

• See More Interest Groups on page 15.

SERVICE• Simpson Housing Dinner Sa 1/28, Sa

2/11, Su 2/26 5:30-8:30pm 2740 1st Ave S, Mpls. Prepare, serve, and clean up after the evening meal for residents of this homeless shelter. Register: www.mtolivet.org.

• Joy Circle Baby Kits During the Month of Feb, MPLS O� ce, MPLS Nursery, or WEST Narthex. Joy Circle is collecting baby items to assemble “Baby Kits” for families in need through Pastor Scott’s On-Call Ministry. Items needed: new and gently-used books / baby clothing (0-12mos only), diapers, wipes, baby lotion / shampoo.

• 95 Acts of Service “Become like Jesus Christ through servanthood.”

See brochure or www.mtolivet.org for details.

SAVE THE DATE! • Launching Lent with Luther:

The Horror and Glory of the Cross Tu 3/7 10am-3pm Mount Olivet Conference & Retreat Center. Presenter: DR. MARK TRANVIK, Professor of Religion, Augsburg College.

Continued from page 8 sidebar ...

= REGISTER AT 612.926.7651 WWW.MTOLIVET.ORG

BOOK GROUPS• Parents Share Book Discussion: What the Happiest

People in the World Know About Raising Confi dent, Capable Kids MPLS W 1/11-2/8 9:30-11am Rm 394-96. Facilitator: MARILYN SHARPE. Cost: $15 (includes book).

• Book Discussion for Women: When Lightning Struck by Danika Cooley MPLS W 1/11-2/1 9-10am Rm

390. Facilitator: CAROL THRONTVEIT. Cost: $15 (includes book). • Book Group: Midday MPLS 3rd Tu 11:30am-1pm Library.

Facilitator: CHELLE URABE. Books: � e Life We Bury by Allen Eskens (1/17), � e War � at Saved My Life by Kimberly Brubaker (2/21).

• Book Group: Evening MPLS 2nd W 7-8:30pm Lounge. Facilitator: MARY SLINDE 926mjs@gmail.com 952.884.4975. Book: Our Souls at Night by Kent Harvf (1/11).

COUNSELING SERVICEGROUP and ONE-ON-ONE counseling sessions take place at MPLS (1804 W 50th St) and at WEST (7150 Rolling Acres Rd, Victoria). Cost for group sessions: $10 per session MO members / $20 non-members. Cost for counseling, psychiatric services, and prescriptive medication sessions: $40 per session MO members / $80 non-members. Appts: Anne Lied 612.927.7335 annel@mtolivetcounseling.org.

• Mpls Groups Tu 1/24-3/7 LOSS OF SPOUSE* 10-11:30amCAREGIVERS 1:30-2:45pmBALANCING YOUR EMOTIONS 5:15-6:15pm LOSS OF ANYONE SIGNIFICANT* 6:30-7:30pm DIVORCED & SEPARATED 7:45-9:15pm

• West Groups � 1/26-3/9 BALANCING YOUR EMOTIONS 5-6pm DIVORCED & SEPARATED 6:15-7:15pm*� ese groups are closed after second session.

Preserving God’s Temple: Body, Mind, SpiritMPLS Sa 2/11 9am-11am (check-in 8:30am). Speaker: DR. RANDY TWITO. Learn how to live a healthier life, at any age, through exercise, nutrition, and making life connections. Hosted by the Pastoral Care Dept. Cost: $15 includes light refreshments. Questions: Tracey Hickey 612.767.2208 traceyh@mtolivet.org.

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Sharing My Faith Hello, my name is Malaika Bigirindavyi. I am a junior at St. Louis Park High School. From the time I was a toddler to about 6th grade, I didn’t give much thought about my faith when I went to church. It wasn’t until I was in Con� rmation classes (7th and 8th grade) that I started thinking, questioning, and establishing my faith. Being biracial and a member of Mount Olivet, I used to feel disconnected with God. Whenever I attended choir practices, Circle of Friends, Sunday church, Cathedral of the Pines, etc., I could tell from just walking into a room that I stood out. When I thought of Jesus, I imagined a white male that I didn’t relate to. I thought that the white kids connected more or had a better understanding of him. As I continued through Mount Olivet, my relationship grew stronger. I realized that the color of one’s skin is irrelevant to God and he loves each and every one of us unconditionally. – MALAIKA BIGIRINDAVYI

Countless people have in� uenced my faith and it seems like every couple of years it is a new person that teaches me, guides me, or empowers me in my faith journey. It all really started with my mom putting me in Sunday School as a child. As I got older, my sister Chloe began introducing me to a lot of cool things I could do through church, the most important thing to me being camp. Cathedral of the Pines is an interesting yet sometimes scary endeavor all of us Hi-leaguers had to face at one point or another. I still remember getting o� the bus in Lutsen for the � rst time and just by chance sitting down in the chapel right next the two guys who would become like brothers to me, Nick Bolin and Peter Wicks. Still not a week goes by without at least hearing from them. Camp of course is a place where a lot of us Hi-leaguers meet our best friends, but it is also a place where we meet a lot of our role models and people who guide our faith in the right direction. � ose role models for me have been ZACH SPIROV, DANE MOORE, and KRISTI YOUNGDAHL.

Zach has shown me to always treat people with kindness and respect and to always be truthful. Dane has taught me many great leadership skills over the years. Kristi has always reminded me (and also anyone else who has ever been to camp) to always be kind to one another. I feel like I can put all those skills together and can grow my faith to become a strong, positive role model to the next generation of Hi-leaguers like our current youth leaders have been to me. – JACKSON NELSON

2017 Cathedral of the Pines Camp Counselors & Workstaffers ... must attend a total of 5 Hi-Leagues before 3/15. Counselors must attend a session #1 and #2 small group, and have an interview with Kristi. Worksta� ers must attend 1 training session. Questions: Camp Director KRISTI YOUNGDAHL 612.767.2215 kristiy@mtolivet.org.

2017 Cathedral of the

Youth

Hi-League (9th-12th Gr) is a social and service program for high school youth. It is a great opportunity for fun and fellowship. Bring your friends! Questions: Billy Johnson 612.767.2214 williamj@mtolivet.org.

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• Hi-League: Oasis Night (9th-12th Gr) Su 1/8 MPLS 7-8:30pm Fellowship Hall (WEST Bus 6:30-9pm). Take a break and prepare for hitting the books after the winter break. We will hang out and relax in a low-key environment.

• Hi-League: Skating Night (9th-12th Gr) Su 1/15 MPLS 7:15-8:15pm Centennial Lakes (MPLS Bus 7-8:30pm, WEST Bus 6:30-9pm). Join us for a night of ice skating at Centennial Lakes. Meet at church or at Centennial Lakes. Cost: $10.

• Feed My Starving Children Packing Event at Mount Olivet MPLS Sa 1/21 9am-7pm Fellowship Hall. See page 4 for details.

• Hi-League: House Groups Devotion Night (9th-12th Gr) Su 1/29 7-8:30pm MPLS Fellowship Hall, WEST Gronseth Fellowship Hall. We will enjoy a devotion by the Youth Sta� tonight. � is night is a COP credit night.

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Youth

7th-Grade Confi rmation Retreats Mount Olivet Conference & Retreat Center. Each 7th-grader is required to attend one Con� rmation Retreat. You may attend any retreat regardless of where you attend Con� rmation. Register: www.mtolivet.org.

1/13-1/14, Bus from WEST1/20-1/21, Bus from MPLS2/10-2/11, Bus from WEST2/17-2/18, Bus from MPLS3/3-3/4, Bus from MPLS

AGAPE* Confi rmation Event (7th-8th Gr) WEST W 1/25 7pm.

AGAPE* (DAVID SCHERER) has inspired youth from Brooklyn to Bosnia through his hip hop outreach. Combining rapping, dancing, and storytelling, AGAPE* exhibits energy, faith and passion for Luther’s grace-centered love of God to bring together people of all backgrounds and let them know about God’s love for the whole world.

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Join your Junior High Youth Ministry staff (Geoff, Gina, Zach, and Kate) for fun events!

= REGISTER AT 612.926.7651 WWW.MTOLIVET.ORG

Choose Love� e ringing in of the New Year often comes with celebration,

resolutions, and a hope for a year more joyous than the previous. It’s a fresh slate, a renewal of sorts that we long for in certain areas of both our own lives and globally. However, longing and hoping won’t � x the areas of our lives or the world that we want improved. For that, we must put in an intentional e� ort.

So where do we start? Looking at the Bible for guidance; the concept, entity, and gift of Love can be seen 538 times (NRSV translation). It puts much importance on Love and relays that we should do the same.

If I speak in the tongues of mortals and of angels, but do not have love, I am a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. And if I have prophetic powers, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. If I give away all my possessions, and if I hand over my body so that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing. 1 CORINTHIANS 13: 1-3

But love your enemies, do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return. Your reward will be great, and you will be children of the Most High; for he is kind to the ungrateful and the wicked. Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful. LUKE 6:35-36

You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind, and with all your strength. Our God, great and powerful, loves each and every one of us and loves us all unconditionally. MARK 12:30

As Christians we have a responsibility in 2017. We must put forth an intentional e� ort to love. We must love ourselves, love others and above all else love God. Love breaks barriers, love heals, and love can change hearts which ultimately changes lives. It is a choice. Sometimes a hard choice. But I promise you it is one worth making. It is one that will both improve ourselves and the world. Finally, let us never forget, We love because he � rst loved us. 1 JOHN 4:19

PHOTOS: (LEFT) MPLS CAMPUS CATHEDRAL CHOIR MEMBERS; (RIGHT) MPLS CAMPUS CHANCEL CHOIR MEMBERS

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Children & Family

C&FM TeamFamilies with infants through 6th-graders are invited to explore faith, develop friend-ships, and serve together through Children & Family Ministry (C&FM) programs! Visit www.mtolivet.org for details and registration.

Katy Michaletz, C&FM Director

612.767.2245 kmichaletz@mtolivet.org

Amber Kuntz, Mpls Sunday School & Events

612.767.2285 amberk@mtolivet.org

Josh Nelson, Mpls & West Events

612.767.2284 joshn@mtolivet.org

Tasha Holifi eld, West Sunday School & Events

952.767.1504 tashah@mtolivet.org

Amy Porthan Nursery & Babygarten

612.767.2224 amyp@mtolivet.org

Linda Healy, Mpls Preschool

612.767.2216 lindah@mtolivet.org

Ongoing C&FM Programs

• Babygarten (Infants to 3yrs & Caregivers) MPLS Campus. A weekly faith-based program that provides pre-literacy skills for children in a faith-focused environment. Facilitator: AMY PORTHAN, early childhood educator and nursery coordinator.

• Baptism Class: “We Bring this Child” 3rd Su, WEST Lounge 8am, MPLS Bride’s Dressing Rm 9am. Register 1wk in advance: Lisa Bue 612.767.2249 lisab@mtolivet.org.

• Child Care / Mount Olivet Day Services (6wks-5yrs) Mount Olivet Day Services, licensed by the Department of Human Services, provides a unique intergenerational

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experience. Children have opportunities to interact and have fun with participants of the Mount Olivet Day Services adult program and residents living at Mount Olivet Home and Mount Olivet Careview Home. Contact: Allison Lewis 612.861.8812.

• Introduction to Infant Massage � is is personal, one-session, by-appointment class taught by DONNA TEIEN,

R.N., Certi� ed Infant Massage Instructor. Bene� ts include strengthening of the respiratory, digestive, and regulatory systems, better sleep, physical comfort, bonding, and trust. Cost: Optional donation. Contact: Carol � rontveit 612.767.2246 carolt@mtolivet.org.

• Library Families are invited to check out books, DVDs, music, and more at our libraries! Our Mpls Campus Library also features a � sh tank and

small group work spaces. Contact: Librarian CHELLE URABE

612.767.2266 micheleu@mtolivet.org.

• Musikgarten (Infants to 3yrs & Caregivers) MPLS Campus. Experience the bene� ts of music and movement in the development of your child. Registration: www.mtolivet.org.

• Parents Share MPLS W 9:30-11am Rm 394. Join MARILYN

SHARPE, Mount Olivet member and parent educator, and other parents for great conversation and book discussions 3 times a year. No cost. Childcare available, register in nursery. See page 9 for more details.

Christmas Share Success! � anks for your generosity! � e Sunday School and � e Way families at the Mpls and West Campuses supported 56 families and countless others this season through Pastor Scott’s On-Call Ministry and VEAP. Our thanks to Pastor Scott, VEAP, the “elves” of Celebration Circle and Inspiration Circle, and the Boy Scouts for their help in organizing and preparing for this event.

small group work spaces.

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MPLS CHILDREN’S CHOIRS

Infant -3yrs

Musik-garten

Colleen Roess

colleenr@mtolivet.org

Pre-K Cherub Cindy Bergstrom

612.767.2305 cherub@mtolivet.org

Pre-K Cherub Colleen Roess

612.767.2305 cherub@mtolivet.org

K-1st Alleluia Leah Reddy

612.767.2332 alleluia@mtolivet.org

2nd-3rd Hosanna Elaine Sergeant

612.767.2307 hosanna@mtolivet.org

4th-6th Chapel Elaine Sergeant

612.767.2307 chapel@mtolivet.org

WEST CHILDREN’S CHOIRS

Pre-K Cherub Shannon Sheehan

952.767.1535 cherubwest@mtolivet.org

K-1st Alleluia Shannon Sheehan

952.767.1535 alleluiawest@mtolivet.org

2nd-3rd Hosanna JustinNellis

952.767.1535 hosannawest@mtolivet.org

4th-6th Chapel JustinNellis

952.767.1535 chapelwest@mtolivet.org

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Children’s ChoirsYour children and their friends are invited to join a children’s choir anytime during the year. Visit www.mtolivet.org for details.

MLK Day Away (1st-6th Gr) M 1/16 8:30am-4:30pm Mount Olivet Conference & Retreat Center (Bus from MPLS & WEST). No school? No problem! Come and hang out with your church friends! We have a great day of swimming, sledding, and all sorts of crazy fun planned for you. 1st- through 3rd-graders will spend the day together, and we’ll alternate activities with the 4th- through 6th-graders. Cost: $40 includes activities and lunch.

Sunday School – Here’s What’s Happening!• 3yrs-Kindergarten � is month we’ll be learning about some

of God’s followers, and the importance of putting our trust in God through the stories of David & Goliath, Noah’s Ark, and Jonah.

• 1st-4th Grade In this block, the theme is “People Who Believe.” We’ll be focusing on how people show their faith and share their faith in di� erent ways using the stories of Moses, Noah, Jonah, and more. We’ll also discuss how we can show and share our faith in our lives.

• 5th & 6th Grade � e Way, our pre-Con� rmation program will be focusing on the Epiphany. We’ll also discuss di� erent ways Jesus showed us that he is our Savior in various texts in the Bible.

Mount Olivet Preschool – Fall 2017 RegistrationIt’s time to think about fall 2017 registration for your preschooler. Mount Olivet members are able to receive the application between now and the end of the January through Linda Healy (612.767.2216 lindah@mtolivet.org). On Feb 1, online registration will be open for all. Information about the preschool program can be found at www.mtolivet.org/education/preschool.

= REGISTER AT 612.926.7651 WWW.MTOLIVET.ORG

My Mt Olivet:Keep It Simple!Use My Mt Olivet to make a donation, listen to sermons, register for events, and more! Simply log in on your computer to www.mymtolivet.org and follow the directions. � en download the Mt Olivet app from the App Store or Google Play on your mobile device and login to the app using your My Mt Olivet password. Questions: Call Member Records or the Finance O� ce at 612.926.7651.

in on your computer to www.mymtolivet.

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Generosity Building on a Strong Foundation: Phase TwoMOUNT OLIVET BUILDS FOR THE FUTURE WITH WEST EXPANSION AND EAST ADDITIONExpansion Will Transform West Campus Something big is about to happen at our West Campus that will transform church life for young and old. � e decision to build a $14 million* structure is a bold declaration that Mount Olivet intends to be a signi� cant presence in the western suburbs. Carver County continues to experience rapid population growth, and we intend to meet the challenge of bringing the gospel of Jesus Christ to more people by providing greater opportunities for worship, education, fellowship, and service.

We are the only congregation with traditional worship (and a pipe organ) in that part of the greater metropolitan area. � e timing is right as there has been signi� cant growth in our West Campus Cathedral and Senior Choirs, as well as in numbers of Con� rmation and Sunday School students and participation in Hi-League.

Pastor Paul Youngdahl � rst had the vision for establishing this expression of Mount Olivet Church back in 2001 when worship began in the Mount Olivet Rolling Acres gymnasium. Within four years, Mount Olivet built worship, education, and fellowship space that is now bulging at its seams. Worship attendance has grown to an average of nearly 600 persons per Sunday. If it were a stand-alone congregation, our West Campus would rank among the largest Lutheran churches in our synod.

Now is the time to seize the moment and meet the challenge. Campaign committees have been formed, listening session are being held, and materials are being prepared, all pointing to a pledge Sunday in May followed shortly by ground-breaking. Catch the fever!* Over $8 million has been identi� ed already, including funds pledged during the 2014 capital campaign, estate gifts, and new commitments.

East Addition will Enhance Choir and Education Space Visit a Cathedral Choir rehearsal in Minneapolis on any Wednesday night and you will � nd high school youth � lling the room with several needing to stand in the hallway! � at alone makes the case for a new and larger space, but consider that we have 14 choirs with over 1,000 singers. Add to that, refurbished Sunday School rooms and six new classrooms to meet the needs of the 1,000 students enrolled in Sunday classes. Fortunately, this need is well understood and the response has been great with 90% of the necessary funds already in hand or pledged. We are hopeful that this project will be 100% funded by the time of ground breaking this spring. An e� ort is soon to be underway to focus on current choir members and alumni to provide the furnishings needed for this addition. Join the chorus of funders!

Ways to Give To discuss the ways you can help make each project a reality, contact Mari Carlson, Director of Development at mcarlson@mtolivethomes.org or 612.821.3150. We are grateful to hundreds of donors for gifts of all sizes already given and yet to be given! � at support will have an impact for decades to come.

Thank You! � e pastors and sta� extend their thanks and appreciation to Mount Olivet members and friends for the strong support given in 2016. Last year Mount Olivet’s ministry touched thousands of people through spiritual education, pastoral care, music ministry, youth programming, and inner-city ministry to name just a few. We are grateful to you for ful� lling your annual and capital campaign pledges and giving memorials and other gifts throughout the year that fund other important needs like the Reformation 500 program. We also appreciate the thousands of volunteer hours given so freely. Your contributions in every way make a di� erence. We promise to be good stewards of your generosity, and thank you in advance for your continued support in 2017.

Mia Vision Partners Event In November, Mount Olivet Vision Partners enjoyed lunch and a viewing of the impressive Luther exhibit at the Minneapolis Institute of Art. JUDY

CHRISTENSEN was presented with the Vision Partner of the Year Award. Judy sets an example with her stewardship and generous spirit, including becoming a Vision Partner in 1993, just nine months after joining Mount Olivet. Judy began saving with her � rst paycheck, a practice that ensures resources for both personal use and for philanthropy. “It gives me great joy to remember my church and Cathedral of the Pines in my estate plan,” says Judy. MOUNT OLIVET VISION PARTNERS are people of all ages who want to share their blessings by making a planned gift for our church or a� liated ministries. Please contact Mari Carlson, director of development, at mcarlson@mtolivethomes.org or 612.821.3150 to learn more.

SENIOR PASTOR-ELECT DAVID LOSE (L) JOINED MARI CARLSON (BACK), DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT, AND INTERIM SENIOR PASTOR DENNIS JOHNSON, (R) IN CONGRATULATING VISION PARTNER JUDY CHRISTENSEN (SEATED).

SENIOR PASTOR-ELECT DAVID LOSE (L) JOINED

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SPECIAL EVENTS Date Time LocationFlying Solo Ice Skating and Hot Cocoa Jan 8 4pm Centennial LakesLiving the Message Pastor's Intro Jan 9 7pm "Martin Luther" from MObile Faith Jan 18 7pm Feed My Starving Children Event Jan 21 9am Simpson Housing Service Opportunity Jan 22 5:30pm Simpson HousingCandlelight Yoga Event Jan 22 6pmPrayerful Yoga Jan 23 7:00pm Young in Heart Luncheon Jan 24 12:00pm Re-Formed by Grace Women’s Retreat Jan 27 3pm MOCRCSimpson Housing - Service Opportunity Jan 28 5:30pm Simpson HousingEat to Thrive Jan 30 7pm SUNDAYS Frequency Time LocationWe Bring this Child: Baptism Class 3rd 8am LoungeHoly Communion Every 8:30am We Bring this Child: Baptism Class 3rd 9am Sunday Worship Every 9, 10, 11am, 12noonSunday Worship Every 9, 10, 11amNursery Every 9, 10, 11am Sunday School Every 9, 10, 11am Holy Communion Every 11:45amHoly Communion Every 12:45amHi-League Every 7pm VariesMONDAYS Frequency Time LocationSouthwest Women's AA Meeting Every 10amEnergy Healing 2nd & 4th 6-9:30pm 1700 Lower LevelQuilting Every 6:30-8:30pm MOCW Inspiration Circle 2nd 7pm Conf RmNu-life AA Meeting Every 7:30pmNu-life Al-Anon Meeting Every 7:30pmHandbells Every VariesYAM Pick-Up Basketball Every 8pm GymTUESDAYS Frequency Time LocationMen's Breakfast Group Every 7am Richfi eld VFWSpiritual Oasis Every 7am-7pm YoungdahlMOCW Victoria Circle 2nd 10am NarthexSupport Group: Loss of Spouse Every 10am Counseling CtrBook Group: Midday 3rd 11:30am-1pm LibraryPrayer Shawl Ministry 3rd 1pmMOCW Fairwood Circle 1st 1pm LoungeChildren’s Choirs Every Varies* Dinner Available Every 5-5:45pm Joyful Noise! Orff Every 5:15-5:45pmSupport Group: Balancing Emotions Every 5:15-6:15pm Counseling CtrSupport Group: Loss of Anyone Every 6:30-7:30pm Counseling CtrSupport Group: Divorced & Separated Every 7:45-9:15pm Counseling CtrWEDNESDAYS Frequency Time LocationNursery Open for Parents Share Every 9:30-11am NurseryParents Share Every 9:30-11am Prayer & Praise Worship Every 10amMOCW Joy Circle 2nd 6:30pm 1700 Lower Level

Book Club: Evening 2nd 7pm LoungeCathedral Choir Every 7-8:15pmCathedral Choir Every 7-8:30pm THURSDAYS Frequency Time LocationMen's Breakfast Group Every 7am Chanhassen PerkinsSpiritual Oasis Every 9am-3pmChancel Ringers Every 5:30-6:30pmSupport Group: Balancing Emotions Every 5-6pmSenior Choir Every 7pm FRIDAYS Frequency Time LocationCherub Choir Every 12noon-12:45pmNAMI Connections Every 6:30pmNAMI Spouse/Partner Support 1st 6:30pmNAMI Family Support 1st 6:30pmMULTIPLE DAYS Days Time LocationChair Holy Yoga M, W 12:15-1:15pm GymMusikgarten M, T, W, F Varies*Preschool M & F 9:30am-12noonPreschool T, W, T 9am-11:30amPreschool T, W, T 12:30-3pm

JAN 2 017 EVENTS & ACTIVIT IES

= Mpls = West * View days and times at www.mtolivet.org.

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Mount Olivet is partnering with Bethlehem Lutheran church to reach a goal of 95,000 meals packaged for people in need in Jamaica. � is e� ort requires 500 VOLUNTEERS OVER 3 SHIFTS IN JUST ONE

DAY! We hope you can help us reach our goal! See page 4 for more information.

PERIODICALSU.S. POSTAGE

PAIDTWIN CITIES, MN

Mount Olivet Messenger

USPS 365-500Published monthly byMount Olivet Lutheran Church5025 Knox Avenue SouthMinneapolis, MN 55419-1095

Periodicals postage paid atTwin Cities, MN

POSTMASTERSend address changes toMount Olivet Messenger5025 Knox Avenue SouthMinneapolis, MN 55419-1095

AT LEAST 6,200 CHILDREN DIE FROM STARVATION EVERY DAY

“… for I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me …”

“Lord, when was it that we saw you hungry and gave you food, or thirsty and gave you something to drink?”

“Truly I tell you, just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family, you did it to me.” – MATTHEW 25

See page 4 info about our special event to help starving children.

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