november 2012 newsletter

ZION LUTHERAN CHURCH • BUFFALO, MN NOVEMBER 2012

O f f i c e@ Zi on Bu f f a l o . o r g ( 7 63 ) 6 82 - 12 45 w ww. Z i on Bu f f a l o . o r g

Harvest of

Hands is

November 3

Harvest of Hands Festival November 3

The 34th annual Harvest of Hands fall festival will be held at Zion on Saturday, November 3, from 9am-1pm.

Some of the items you will find at the Harvest of Hands fall festival are:

Made to order brunch, including omelets and crepes.

Handmade crafts, including quilts, dishtowels, winter wear, jewelry, and much more.

Yummy things to eat, including breads, assorted baked goods, candies, jams, jellies, pickles, salsa, Korean egg rolls, Lefse, and more.

Silent Auction with special crafts, gift baskets, and other items.

A White Elephant Sale, including several classrooms full of treasures.

Face painting, ornament painting, and beading activities for the children.

Harvest of Hands is an annual event held at Zion to feed the hungry in our own community and around the world, often through the Buffalo Food Shelf and the World Hunger Appeal through the Lutheran World Federation.

Come for brunch, shop for holiday gifts and decorations, and stock up on freshly baked goodies.

Duluth All Ages Mission Trip 2013

Sometimes mission work can be a little intimidating. It can be far away, expensive, or just plain tough to fit into your schedule. Yet you still feel that gentle nudge from God to get out there and get your hands dirty serving His world. We’ve got something for you!

Zion’s All Ages mission trip to Duluth in July of 2013 is the most accessible opportunity you’re going to find to get out there and serve. The trip is open to all ages with proper chaperoning, it only costs $99, and it is in Duluth, a nice destination but close enough for a great drive. The dates we have reserved are July 25-28th, a great time to be up on the North Shore.

Zion is partnering with Youthworks!, a Minnesota based mission organization, for a great trip. They provide opportunities to serve all over the country and Zion has worked with them in the past.

Two things you need to know:

1. This is the best time and best opportunity to get your feet wet in mission.

2. We only have 35 spots, and we will be filling them first come-first serve.

We have had interest already from families, grandparents looking to bring the

(Duluth Mission Trip continued on page 17)

Let Us Know

Address, Phone & Email Corrections

If you have had any changes to your

address, phone number, marital status,

etc. please contact the office with your

name, phone number and the changes that

need to be made in our database.

If You Are Ill

Hospitals no longer notify churches when

their members are admitted for care. Let

us know so we can support you with

prayer and with presence.

Prayer Requests

Please use a yellow pew card, post on the

Prayer Wall of our online community, or

contact the office with your prayer

requests.

763.682.1245

ZionBuffalo.org

[email protected]

Living God’s Call

Engaging people in a process of discipleship which inspires them 2

The third annual Love INC-Big Woods

Gala will be held at Zion on Saturday,

November 10, from 4:30-10pm, with

a theme of Masquerade. Costumes are

not necessary. Wear a party dress, or

old bridesmaid dress, slacks and dress

shirt. Masks will be available to buy

at the door.

The evening will include dinner made

by Julie Kabe & “Food for Friends,”

entertainment by MC Myron

Crawford, a dessert contest, games,

photography, and a silent auction.

Tickets are $35 per person and can be

purchased at Buffalo Books or the

Love INC office in Buffalo, or at

loveincbigwoods.org.

Through your support, Love INC helps

local families who are in need in the

communities of Buffalo, Maple Lake

and Hanover.

It’s A Season to Celebrate at Zion, a time to thank God for blessing our ministry and our witness in this world. We should be very familiar with celebrations. In fact, as we enter into late fall and winter, we’ve probably already started to have the conversation with family about who will be hosting Thanksgiving and Christmas, when and where it will be, what each family can bring, where people will sleep, and how or if people are exchanging gifts. Needless to say, my house is no different. All sorts of planning and conversation takes place so that we can have a great family event.

Eventually, the big day comes and everyone descends on the house of the lucky host. Coats go here, food goes there, and everyone starts their pre-meal rituals. For some, this means scouting out the kitchen, sneaking a black olive or two. For others, they try and predict where the food will start its circuitous journey around the table, hoping to be first or last, either for the best choices or to polish off what is left in the tray or bowl.

With everyone seated, the feast begins. Heaping trays and bowls of goodness. Aunt Shirley’s raspberry applesauce Jell-O with crushed redhots and whipped cream. Grandma Debbie’s sweet potato soufflé (equal parts butter, brown sugar, and sweet potato). Cranberries from the can, still in can shape. Mashed potatoes, done farmer style like at Grandpa Tractor’s house. Potatoes on the bottom, corn on top, gravy over everything. All the good stuff comes around, plates are filled, and all talking ceases. People are intent on getting the most out of this meal. And when we’re done, some people volunteer or get stuck with washing dishes, and everyone else scrambles off to catch the football game or a post-gorging nap.

But we aren’t really done, there is all that great food left over. The strange magic that takes place after people eat their fill and leave the table turns a once relished meal into leftovers. Bowls and trays get scraped unceremoniously into recycled Cool Whip containers, and Grandma’s amazing sweet potato soufflé has to compete for fridge space or get pawned off on someone.

People don’t ooh and aah over leftovers. I personally don’t get excited about dumping a clumped bunch of potatoes on my plate along with some congealed gravy. I’m a top of the mountain of potatoes kind of guy. I want first dibs because it makes me feel good and I know I’m getting the best of what there is.

(A Season to Celebrate continued on page 17)

to trust in Christ, grow in faith, and serve God’s world. 3

Wednesday Suppers

There’s a tasty meal waiting for you every

Wednesday from 5:00-6:15 in the

Fellowship Hall for a suggested donation

of $4 per plate/$15/family. The best deal

in town!

Meals will be served each week until the

end of the school year excluding school

breaks.

November 7: Pasta

November 14: Tacos

November 21: No Meal

(Thanksgiving Eve)

November 28: Sloppy Joes

Meals on Wheels

Zion is asked to provide three drivers at

11:45am each day in November for

approximately an hour of meal delivery to

households in the City of Buffalo. This is a

most rewarding activity and makes a good

family service project.

Consider which days you can help and

sign up at the information desk or

by emailing Sherilyn. You can also check

the calendar at ZionBuffalo.org/MOW.

If you’ve driven before and prefer a

specific route please request it when you

sign up. If you’d like to try it but you’re

unfamiliar with Buffalo, let us know.

We’ll find a partner for your first drive.

Thank you for participating in this special

community outreach.

Baptisms

September 2

Everett James Melchert

September 9

Kendryn Lee Haskins

September 23

Colbie Brynn Guida

September 30

Reese Caroline Keicker

Weddings

September 8

Samantha Arens & Dan Sowers

September 15

Melissa Ludwig & Dixon Dehmer

September 29

Kristin Juday & Andrew Thomas

Funerals

September 11

Jim Armstrong, Jr.

September 12

Albert (Elroy) Monson

September 28

Arlyn Nelson

Margaret Olson

Active Military

Please Pray For

Ben Pecarina

Stationed in Georgia

Will Dobbins

Deployed on the USS Peleliu

Christopher Brophy

Stationed at Ft Riley, KS

Greg Bremseth

Stationed at Ft Bliss, TX

Deanna Strommen

Stationed in Washington, DC

Christopher Schmidt

Deployed to the Persian Gulf

Cody Bauman

Stationed at Fort Bragg, NC

Trey Wilson

Stationed at Camp Pendleton, CA

Fred Pierce

Stationed in Miramar, CA

Doug Pecarina

Army National Guard

Alex Euerle

Deployed to Afghanistan

A Welcoming Church Event

Everyone likes to think that their church is welcoming and friendly, but what can you do to help make Zion a welcoming and friendly place to those who are new to Zion? On Sunday, November 18, join the Outreach and Evangelism committee for muffins, juice, and coffee after 8:30 worship or before 10:30 worship, while they share their vision for nurturing a welcoming culture at Zion.

Sign up at the Information Desk or ZionBuffalo.org/events.

Lives Enriched by

Online Community

When Dawn & Jay Fischer married six years ago, they decided to mutually find a new church home, and chose to join Zion because it felt welcoming.

Jay is a manager at MP Nexlevel in Maple Lake, and Dawn worked for a number of years at Allina Medical Clinic in Buffalo as a laboratory technician. “A few years ago I returned to school to become licensed as a Drug and Alcohol Counselor. I’m happy to report this process is complete and I am currently interviewing for my new job.”

Their 16-year-old daughter, Abigail, attended Christ Community Lutheran School in Watertown, and is now a junior at Watertown High. Older children Aaron and Amanda attend college in Ft Collins, Colorado, and Andrew attends Biola University in Southern California.

Dawn and Jay have not been very involved in Zion’s traditional ministries. Attendance at Zion was challenging due to their work schedules and Dawn’s school schedule. They were also still attending church in Watertown while Abigail was in Confirmation. Dawn quickly embraced Zion’s online community, the Table, and all that it has to offer, because it met specific needs for her family.

“Because of our schedules, the Table became a fundamental tool for maintaining church connection while we were completing the commitments that were preventing full involvement at Zion."

Dawn is one of Zion’s prayer warriors, and what she likes most about the Table is being able to connect with fellow members of the congregation in prayer. Unlike just a few years ago when prayer requests were passed by telephone tag, she can check in to the site whenever her schedule allows to read up-to-date prayer concerns and/or praises. The Table also makes it easy for her to reach back and make connections with other users that she perhaps didn’t know before, even over sensitive issues.

What has surprised Dawn about the Table is that other members of the

(Online Community continued on page 14)

Connecting With Care

Creating a community where people are connected 4

The Shoemaker’s Wife

The Zion Book Club selection for Monday, November 12, is The Shoemaker’s Wife by Adriana Trigiani.

The majestic and haunting beauty of the Italian Alps is the setting of the first meeting of Enza, a practical beauty, and Ciro, a strapping mountain boy, who meet as teenagers, despite growing up in villages just a few miles apart. At the turn of the last century, when Ciro catches the local priest in a scandal, he is banished from his village and sent to hide in America as an apprentice to a shoemaker in Little Italy. Without explanation, he leaves a bereft Enza behind. Soon, Enza's family faces disaster and she, too, is forced to go to America with her father to secure their future.

Unbeknownst to one another, they both build fledgling lives in America. From the stately mansions of Carnegie Hill, to the cobblestone streets of Little Italy, over the perilous cliffs of northern Italy, to the white-capped lakes of northern Minnesota, these star-crossed lovers meet and separate, until, finally, the power of their love changes both of their lives forever.

Lush and evocative, told in tantalizing detail and enriched with lovable, unforgettable characters, The Shoemaker's Wife is a portrait of the times, the places and the people who defined the immigrant experience, claiming their portion of the American dream with ambition and resolve, cutting it to fit their needs like the finest Italian silk.

From Amazon.com

The Zion Book Club is a low pressure book club. Simply come for discussion with no preparation; participants are not obligated to agree on (or even finish) the books. Come when you have interest and time, so that the book club will enrich your life and not become another stress or obligation.

Upcoming Book Club selections include the Tana French Series (In the Woods, The Likeness, Faithful Place, and the most recent, Broken Harbor) on January 14, and Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn on February 11.

Thanksgiving Visits

Would you have time to set aside between November 14-21 for visits to homebound and senior citizens in our area? The Zion Women's Ministry group has a tradition of giving a thanksgiving gift to those who find it difficult to come to Zion weekly for worship. If you can help by making 3-4 brief visits during those November days, contact Sherilyn Burgdorf ([email protected]) or Phyllis Bengtson (682.3201) or Ione Olson (682.1988).

Swedish Institute Deadline

The St. Lucia supper is "on tour" this

year as Zion members and friends are

invited to visit the American Swedish

Institute in Minneapolis. Leave from

Zion at 9am on November 29 to drive

to the ASI for a two-hour event planned

just for us that includes a guided tour

through the holiday rooms and also a

talk on "Christmastime in Sweden."

Because of the private tour, firm

numbers are needed by November 1.

Cost is $16 (provide your own

transportation) or $25 (transportation

provided). Transportation back to Zion

will leave ASI around 1pm. This trip is

open to all Zion members and friends

from the community. Sign up by

October 28 at the information desk or

Zionbuffalo.org/events.

January Women's Retreat

The Women of Zion are planning a

retreat for January 19, 2013, from

9:00am-2:30pm.

You're invited for a day of relaxing,

being filled, pampered, and empowered

at a women's retreat day at Zion.

Guest presenters will include Carol

Nusbaum (time management and stress

relievers), Mary Jane Miller (home

economist, chef, organic gardener,

cooking teacher, and "maven of mmm"),

and Dr. Mary Wilkens (Twin Cities

family practice physician with a heart

for Christian ministry).

"Wellness Wanderings" options will be

available through sessions and booths

on topics such as gardening, wellness

and motivation, exercise, cooking ideas,

staying in touch through social

media, crafts, yoga, blood pressure

checks, neck & hand massage, and also

time to wander on your own or with

friends on a prayer walk.

Cost for the day will be $15/person.

Continental breakfast at 8:30 included.

Child care provided.

Give a holiday gift of time with a gift

certificate for retreat registration.

Available now at ZionBuffalo.org/

women, or contact Sherilyn Burgdorf at

[email protected]

1245 ext.307.

in relationships and supported in need. 5

http://zionbuffalo.org/

mailto:[email protected]

Sunday Announcements

The relationships of our members with

one another bring a richness to our lives

and we want to foster these

relationships. If you would like your

church family to be aware of any

special celebrations in your life or the

lives of your loved ones, please let the

church office know by Thursday at

10am and we will include them in the

written announcement insert in the

bulletin.

Choirboys Concert at Zion

Mark your calendars now and invite

friends and neighbors for a wonderful

concert by the five choirs of the Land of

Lakes Choirboys, presented here at Zion

on Sunday, December 16 at 4pm in the

Zion sanctuary. A reception, provided

by Zion's Women's Ministry, will follow

the concert.

Because of a generous donation to Zion,

there is no ticket cost for the concert. A

freewill offering will be taken to cover

travel costs for the choir. Watch for

more information on the Zion website,

December newsletter and other local

media.

Three of Zion's own are members in the

choirs: Sam Anderson sings with the

Training Choir, and Josh and Aaron

Otten are part of the Concert Choir.

Christmas Bake Sale

Are you already looking through your

special recipes? Making choices of

holiday favorites?

Zion's Women's Ministry is hosting a

bake sale on Sunday morning,

December 16, and a reception following

the Land of Lakes Choirboys Concert

the same evening.

If you are interested in providing

Christmas treats and sweets for the

bake sale and/or reception, contact

Judy Weis (682.7014), Lois Monson

(763.412.7310) or Sherilyn Burgdorf

([email protected]).

Annual Meeting

The Annual Congregational Meeting of Zion Lutheran Church will be held in Trinity Hall on Sunday, December 2, following the 10:30 service (at approximately 11:30 am). All voting members are requested to attend. A voting member is defined as confirmed, communing, and contributing.

Accepting Nominations

The nominating committee is accepting nominations for the following positions:

4 Church Council Members to serve for 3 years

6 Nominating Committee Members to serve 1-year terms.

2 Zion Foundation Trustees to serve for 3 years.

3 Minneapolis Area Synod Voting Members, including 1 youth member to serve for 2 years. At least 2 of the 3 adults should be female. The 2013 synod assembly is May 31-June 1.

Those interested in serving the congregation in one of these positions, please contact the church office (Office @ZionBuffalo.org or 682.1245) or a member of the nominating committee (Kevin Bergquist, Steve Peterson, Idella Ziegler or Lorraine Statema) by November 4.

Service of Remembrance

Surround yourself with the saints remaining and be reminded of God’s good promises to us all. On November 4, All Saints Sunday, Zion will be holding its annual “Service of Remembrance” at 4pm. This is a time for the Zion community to gather and remember together the blessed saints we have sent off before us.

The service includes scripture readings, hymns, prayers, a meditation and Holy Communion. There is also an opportunity for everyone to light a candle in memory of their loved ones and to recite their names.

Creating Sunday morning experiences at Zion that invite, 6

Celebrating on Sundays

A Solemn Prayer

May our religion be filled with gladness and may our worship of

thee be natural. … Endow us with courage that is born of loyalty

to all that is noble and worthy, that scorns to compromise with

vice and injustice, and knows no fear when truth and right are in

jeopardy. Guard us against flippancy and irreverence in the

sacred things of life.

Grant us new ties of friendship and new opportunities of service.

Kindle our hearts in fellowship … and soften our hearts with

sympathy for those who sorrow and suffer.

—From The West Point Cadet Prayer, Colonel C.E. Wheat

tel:%28763-412-7310

mailto:[email protected]

Thanksgiving Eve Ecumenical Worship

The 35th Annual Community Festival of Thanksgiving and Praise will take place at Zion on Wednesday, November 21 at 7:30pm (this is earlier than past years). Invite your neighbors and friends to attend this service of thanks that brings our community together. This is truly a faith-filled experience for all families.

Pastors from the Buffalo area churches join to give leadership to this community-wide time of worship. Over 130 musicians from different churches are expected

to participate. Choirs from six Buffalo churches will combine to

present anthems of thanks and praise with organ and brass.

The handbell choirs from Zion and other churches are preparing pieces to be rung in a massed choir.

Nursery is provided. Offerings are used to help those in need through the Buffalo Ministerial Association.

Advent Decorating

Put your creativity to work on Tuesday, November 27, here at Zion as a decorator, making the entry area, library, and fellowship hall festive with Christmas trees and decorations. The work and fun begin at 9am. The coffee pot will be on and you'll have an enjoyable morning with the Zion crew. Questions? Interest? Call Diane Huston (682.1040) or Lois Monson (763.412.7310). If you have an interest in setting up and decorating the large tree in the sanctuary, please contact Sherilyn Burgdorf. We thank Kim, Denny, and Neil Gleason for their help with the tree during the past years. They're ready to mentor someone else into the task this year. The sanctuary tree would not be done by the decorating crew on November 27 and can be done anytime between November 26 and December 1.

Sunday Worship Services

8:30am Traditional Worship in the

Sanctuary with nursery available,

Sunday School during the school year

9:45am Family Express in Trinity Hall

10:30am Contemporary Worship in the

Sanctuary with nursery available,

Sunday School during the school year

Worship Schedule

Sunday, November 4

Twenty-Third Sunday after Pentecost

All Saints Sunday

Mark 12:28-34

Matthew 28:16-20

Pastor Luke Preaching

Sunday, November 11

Twenty-Fourth Sunday after Pentecost

Ephesians 4:11-18

Luke 19:1-10

Pastor Ted Preaching

Sunday, November 18

Twenty-Fifth Sunday after Pentecost

2 Corinthians 8:1-5

Acts 2:42-44


Wednesday, November 21

Thanksgiving Eve Ecumenical Worship

Sunday, November 25

Christ the King Sunday

John 18:33-37


Baptism Class

Anyone wishing to schedule a baptism is

asked to attend a class prior to the date

of the baptism. Expectant parents, as

well as those who already are parents,

may attend the class. Scheduling of

baptisms will take place at the class.

The next classes are Sunday, December

9 at noon, and Sunday, February 10.

Register at ZionBuffalo.org/Baptism or

by calling the office.

welcome, engage and inspire people to live for Christ. 7

September 2012 Financial Report

General Services Fund

Income Sept 2012 YTD 2012 Sept 2011 YTD 2011 General Offering $57,923 $511,333 $48,128 $496,245

Rent and Sunday School 2,354 17,530 2,680 16,087

WedNite Supper Income 1,007 4,963 1,363 5,697

Missions and Hunger 1,076 11,171 1,243 9,847

Other Designations 1,055 14,549 2,110 10,523

Total Income $63,414 $559,546 $55,523 $538,399

Expenses Synod Benevolence $1,000 $9,000 $1,000 $9,000

Other General Services 54,136 527,764 72,152 523,068

Total Expenses $55,136 $536,764 $73,152 $532,068

Checkbook balance as of 9-30-2012: $6,509

A Promising Tomorrow/Building Fund

Income Sept 2012 YTD 2012 Sept 2011 YTD 2011 Offerings and Interest $15,968 $134,946 $14,492 $144,413

Other Receipts 0 0 0 0

Total Income $15,968 $134,946 $14,492 $144,413

Expenses Building Mortgage $15,869 $142,821 $15,869 $135,378

Roof/Parking Lot Loan 0 0 0 3,653

Kairos Consulting 0 6,000 1,000 19,000

Interest Expense on LOC 0 0 0 0

Bank Service Charge 15 15 0 30

Total Expenses $15,884 $148,836 $16,869 $158,062

Checkbook balance as of 9-30-2012: $13,576

Thank you for your continued support of God’s work at Zion Lutheran Church.

Memorial Gifts Received

Gift to the Zion Foundation in memory

of Joe Lantto from Steve & Lora Loch.

Gift to Wednesday Night Suppers in

memory of Margaret Olson from Roger

& Delores Johnson.

Gift to the Zion Youth in memory of

Betty Onstad & Arlyn Nelson from Julie

Swaggert.

Gifts to the Zion Foundation in memory

of Arlyn Nelson & Joanne Machula

from Mark & Louise Minkler.

L.S.S. Counseling

Available at Zion once a week, every

Thursday. Evening appointments can

also be scheduled. Provider for many

insurances with sliding scale. Call

Miho Adkins at 1.320.251.7700

Give to the Max Day

Be part of Minnesota’s Give to the Max

Day, and help Zion win a $1,000

Golden Ticket! By partnering with

GiveMN, an online giving website for

Minnesota nonprofits, Zion will have 25

chances to maximize your online gift on

Give to the Max Day!

By making a donation on Give to the

Max Day, your gift of any size could

help Zion win an extra $1,000 for our

ministry in the community.

At the end of Give to the Max Day, one

donation from across Minnesota will be

randomly selected for a $10,000

Supersized Golden Ticket! Help Zion

increase our odds by making your gift

on November 15 by visiting

www.GiveMN.org and searching for

‘Zion Buffalo’!

ZionBuffalo.org/Give 8

Finance & Stewardship

Free Christian Music

Submitted by Karen Worner

Looking for the “Good News” through

music? Just go to Thrivent.com/music.

From praise and worship, classical, pop/

rock/R&B, Christmas, etc., “Music for

Members” shares free music submitted to

Thrivent by professional and amateur

musicians from around the country. These

songs are available for free streaming and

downloading. 15 new songs are added

each month. You can search by genre,

artist and song title. You also can rate

each song to let others know what you

think of it. Plus, you can learn more about

the artists behind the music. These pages

can easily be shared on Facebook and

Twitter. There is a section where you can

discuss the artists and their songs with

others.

If you would like to share your music on

“Music for Members,” find submission

information and guidelines at

Thrivent.com/magazine/music.

If you would like more information about

Thrivent Financial and its products,

please call Mark Worner

at 763.682.6011.

A Haven for Students

When Myron asked me to help out with

painting the Senior High Youth room, I

didn't hesitate. For one thing, painting is

mental therapy for me. More importantly,

I know how much of a haven this room is

for the Senior High students on

Wednesday evenings. Many kids come

early to do homework or just to hang out

before Graceland. It's so important that

they feel good about their space and want

to be there.

Vickie Davidson

9

Ten Motivations for Giving

Each fall we take time to think about our financial giving to God’s mission through our church. We call this our Fall Stewardship Emphasis. For many of us, the great things God is doing in our midst are a strong motivation to support Zion with our finances. We like to support successful things.

In his second letter to the Christians at Corinth, Paul outlines ten motivations for giving. They have been helpful to innumerable people throughout the years.

1. Give Yourself (2 Cor. 8:5) - If giving doesn't always begin with the dedication of ourselves, it doesn’t always include lasting dedication.

2. Excel In Your Giving (2 Cor. 8:7) - Paul urged the Christians at Corinth to excel in three things: faith, love and giving.

3. Let Christ Be Your Example (2 Cor. 8:9) - He was the supreme giver. We are his followers.

4. Put Your Faith to Work (2 Cor. 8:11) - Don't just talk about what you'd like to do. Do it! Act on your faith!

5. Give Proportionately - a Percentage of your Income (2 Cor. 8:12) - We are to give according to our resources - "As the Lord has blessed us." Money is a trust; we are trustees.

6. Give What Is Honorable In God's Sight (2 Cor. 8:21) - It's another reminder that we live our lives in the presence and sight of God, and that he is to be honored in all things.

7. Give What Is Honorable In The Sight Of Others (2 Cor. 8:21) - Our giving is an expression of our faith. It's a witness to others, and others are encouraged and strengthened by what we do.

8. Give As Proof Of Your Love (2 Cor. 9:6) - Talk is easy and often cheap! Paul asks us to let our giving (not our talking) prove our love.

9. Giving Leads To Blessings (2 Cor. 9:6) - While this appeals not to the highest of motives, it nevertheless is a promise of God and is the experience of countless members.

10. Give Cheerfully (2 Cor. 9:7) - Even when money is given begrudgingly, the church makes good use of it and Christ's mission is served. But when we give cheerfully we are blessed ourselves.

Join us the first three Sundays of November as we wrap up our Fall Stewardship Emphasis - A Season To Celebrate the great things God is doing at Zion.

tel:763-682-6011

Tuesday November 6

General Election

9:30am Staff Meeting

4:00pm Christmas Program Rehearsal

6:30pm Social Ministry Committee

7:00pm Jubilee Rehearsal

Wednesday November 7

9:30am Women's Bible Study

2:45pm Class Ring

3:45pm Ring Forth

3:45pm SONshine Choir

3:45pm Kids Place

4:45pm Joy Choir

5:00pm Wednesday Night Supper

5:15pm Youth Choir

6:00pm Confirmation

6:30pm Joyful Ringers

6:30pm Framing The Faith

7:00pm Property Committee Meeting

7:00pm Senior Choir

7:30pm Graceland Senior High Youth

Group

Thursday November 8

8:00am Men Seeking Wisdom Bible

Study

9:00am Lutheran Social Services


6:00pm Finance Committee Meeting

8:00pm First Sunday Rehearsal

Friday November 9

8:30am Love Inc Gala setup

Saturday November 10

4:30pm Love Inc Gala

Sunday November 11

Veterans Day

7:00am Cinnamon Rolls

8:30am Traditional Worship Service

8:30am Sunday School

9:30am Coffee Fellowship

9:45am Family Express Worship

10:30am Contemporary Worship

Service



Monday November 12

8:00am Men's Bible Study

9:00am Women's Ministry Planning


7:00pm Zion Book Club

Tuesday November 13

9:00am Harvest of Hands Craft Day

9:00am Kitchen Cleaning



6:30pm Outreach & Evangelism

Committee


7:00pm Global Missions Committee



2:45pm Class Ring

3:45pm Ring Forth


3:45pm Kids Place

4:45pm Joy Choir


5:15pm Youth Choir

6:00pm Confirmation


7:00pm Senior Choir

7:00pm Harvest of Hands Crafts


Group

7:30pm Church Council Meeting

Thursday November 15

Give to the Max Day


Study


3:30pm Thanksgiving Basket

Distribution


6:30pm Youth Board Meeting

7:00pm Rebecca Circle


Friday November 16

7:00pm Friday Night Fun Night

ZionBuffalo.org/Calendar 10

Thursday November 1


Study

9:00am Harvest of Hands Event Set-Up


4:00pm Christmas Program Read thru


Friday November 2

6:00am Friday Breakfast Crew

9:00am Harvest of Hands Event Set-Up

Saturday November 3

7:00am HOH Volunteers arrive

9:00am Harvest of Hands Event

Sunday November 4

Holy Communion at 8:30, 9:45, & 10:30





10:30am Contemporary Worship Service



4:00pm Service of Remembrance

Monday November 5



7:00pm Mission Jamaica Team Meeting

November 2012

Sunday November 18

Holy Communion at 8:30 and 10:30



9:30am Welcoming Church Event






11;30am TIM Team

2:00pm Parkview Devotions/Communion

7:00pm Ecumenical Thanksgiving Choir

Rehearsal

Monday November 19



Tuesday November 20


9:30am Naomi Circle


5:30pm Stewardship Meeting

6:30pm Ecumenical Thanksgiving Bell

Rehearsal


7:30pm Vision Team


9:00am Newsletter Assembly

9:15am Sunrise Devotions


5:15pm Youth Choir

5:30pm Ecumenical Thanksgiving Bell

Rehearsal

6:00pm Ecumenical Thanksgiving Choir

Rehearsal

7:30pm Ecumenical Thanksgiving

Service


Thanksgiving Day

Sunday November 25

7:00am Cinnamon Rolls


8:30am Sanctuary Sunday





11

For Your December Calendar

Saturday December 1

Prayer Sister Tea

Sunday December 2

Annual Congregational Meeting

Parent’s Day Out

Saturday December 8

Parent’s Day Out

Sunday December 9

Sunday School Christmas Program

Sunday December 16

Christmas Bake Sale

Carols, Choirs & Celebration

Land of Lakes Choirboys Concert

Thursday December 20

Senior Appreciation Dinner

Monday December 24

Christmas Eve Worship

Tuesday, December 25

Christmas Day Worship

Monday, December 31

Year End Offering Deadline 10am

Monday November 26



Tuesday November 27

9:00am Christmas Decorating




7:00pm Personnel Committee Meeting


9:00am Christmas Decorating-Back Up

9:30am Devotions at Lake Ridge


10:30am Devotions at Park View

2:45pm Class Ring

3:45pm Ring Forth


3:45pm Kids Place

4:45pm Joy Choir


5:15pm Youth Choir

6:00pm Confirmation

6:15pm Host Training


7:00pm Senior Choir


Group



Study

9:00am Lutheran Social

Services

10:00am Christmastime in

Sweden Tour

4:00pm Christmas Program

Rehearsal

8:00pm First Sunday

Rehearsal

Friday November 30

5:30pm Wedding

Friday Night Fun Night

Are you in 6th-8th Grade? Are you looking for something to do on a Friday night? Then come out to Zion on November 16, from 7-9pm, for Friday Night Fun Night! FNFN will feature Minute to Win It and a few other games with fabulous prizes. Bring a friend and wear your favorite team gear to a great night of free fun!

Senior High Mission Trip Meeting

Are you a Senior High student that is looking for more out of life? Do you want to make a difference? Do you like to have fun? Then you will not want to miss this life-changing, eye-opening, heart-reviving experience!

Zion Senior High students will be traveling to the Standing Rock Indian Reservation in South Dakota July 21-July 27, 2013.

Students will have the opportunity to serve others by painting, cleaning, playing, listening, feeding, sharing, praying and a whole lot more throughout the community.

If you are interested in getting more info, contact Myron.

Registrations with a $100 deposit per student are due Sunday, November 4.

A Personal Blessing in Disguise

I recently had the blessing to serve communion for the 8:30am and 10:30am worship services. It was something that I did not realize that I needed.

While serving this important sacrament, that can mean so much to so many, I was able to step back and take a moment to remember who I am and whose I am.

I take joy in knowing that when I serve in this way, not only am I able to do something that my personal savior, Jesus Christ, did for others so long ago, I am able to be reminded of the blessing that is poured out on Zion and the surrounding community.

As I placed wafers in each person’s hands, I took a moment to just look at each of those hands. Some were callused, arthritic, worn and stained, while others were soft, young, and strong.

It was a reminder to me of what our congregation at Zion is all about. Some of us are worn and stained from our pasts, yet others are fresh, eager and full of life, and still others are sure, steady and faithful.

I am blessed to know that God has called all of us together to Zion to be able to be called a church family. God is great, all the time! All the time, God is great!

Director of Youth Ministries

Myron Crawford

763-682-1245 ext. 308

[email protected]

Engage. Grow. Proclaim.

Zion Youth Ministries exists to

engage youth, help them grow

and proclaim faith in Christ.

Friday Breakfast Crew

Senior High Students - Come out to

Perkins on Friday, November 2 at 6am

for a chance to check-in with everyone.

Make sure to bring money for food and

a tip for our great servers!

Youth Board

There is a Youth Board meeting on

Thursday, November 15, at 6:30pm.

TIM Team

TIM Team (Teens in Mission) will meet

on Sunday, November 18, at 11:30 in

the Café Corner.

Confirmation/Graceland

There will be NO Confirmation or

Graceland on Wednesday, November 21

(due to Thanksgiving). Be safe and have

fun!

Everything Else

Check the website for Graceland and

Confirmation schedules:

ZionBuffalo.org/youth

1 Timothy 4:12

Don’t let anyone look down on

you because you are young, but set

an example for the believers in speech,

in life, in love, in faith and in purity.

Youth Ministry

ZionBuffalo.org/Youth 12

Sunday School Calendar

November 4

Pre-K Jesus Cares for Me

1st-3rd Ruth and Naomi

4th God Is All Powerful

5-6th Traditional

November 11

Pre-K Jesus Helps Me

1st-3rd Hannah

4th God Is Our Refuge

5-6th Grapple

November 18

Pre-K Jesus Helps Me

1st-3rd Esther

4th B2

5-6th Traditional

November 25:

Sanctuary Sunday

Kids’ Place Reminder

Kids’ Place will not meet on

Wednesday, November 21.

CoDirectors of Christian Education

Holly Husom

763-682-1245 x308

[email protected]

Kirsten Kelly

763-682-1245 x331

[email protected]

ZionBuffalo.org/Children 13

Christmas Program

Mark your calendar!

The Sunday School Christmas Program will be presented in worship on Sunday, December 9. All Sunday School students will be singing in worship on that day with their Sunday school class. Songs and lyrics will be posted for students to practice at home, please watch your email for the links.

Christmas program rehearsals are beginning on Thursday, November 1. If you auditioned, you have a part! If you were at the auditions but didn’t hear about your part. Please contact Holly or Kirsten so we can be sure that you have the rehearsal schedule. Some of the rehearsals will be for all cast members and some will be for certain characters only, so it is important for you to know when it’s your turn to practice.

Bible Exploration

Thank you to all those who attended this year’s Bible Exploration Event! It was a fantastic opportunity to share the Word with kids and their families. We look forward to hosting this event again next year, and we look forward to sharing this experience with many new families and children.

Make it Fun, Make it Count!

Every Sunday when I walk into my classroom at Zion, a sense of peace comes over me. No matter what kind of morning I was having before I got there, a smile is embedded on my face, my feet are a little lighter and my mind is free.

As I watch each little face come through the door my heart brightens as I get to hear each one tell me what they did all week. Watching the kids sing, you can feel the love pouring from them. During story time their wisdom of what they know about God makes a grown person chuckle, yet it is their vision and their thoughts. Watching each child doing their best to create the best artwork they have ever made and how excited they are when they get to hand it to their mom, dad, brother, sister, grandma, grandpa, aunt, uncle, or even a Sunday School teacher is truly watching the innocence of these children. It reminds me what God wants from all of us—love for each other, peace, and happiness.

These are the moments that I remember when I am down. I feel so honored to be part of these kids’ lives. They have all made a difference in my life.

Sarah Blake

Children’s Ministry

Fall

Fall is a time of vivid color, changing

temperatures and transitioning from the

relaxation of summer to more scheduling

in our days. Nostalgia is in the air,

stirring up a collage of remembrances. It

is a time to give thanks, especially for

those who have paved a path for the

blessings we reap.

“Then we your people, the sheep of

your pasture, will praise you

forever; from generation to

generation we will recount your

praise.”

Psalm 79:13.

Through all the seasons and all the

changes, God abides.

The mosaic tile artwork pictured is one of

eight 2x4-foot pieces created by 2012

Vacation Bible School students, grades

one through six. LeeAnn Goerss planned

and supervised the project, Mike Otten

grouted them, and the Memorials &

Placement Committee helped fund them.

All of the panels will eventually be on

permanent display at Zion.

14

congregation aren’t more involved in the prayer wall. She speculates that a large majority of Zion members are online daily, might even be reading the Table prayer requests, but don’t follow through and indicate “praying now.”

“Just by virtue of showing support by indicating you have joined the person posting in mutual (and often times simultaneous) prayer – that in and of itself is a beautiful thing. Imagine if I came to the Table right now and lifted up a prayer need and by the end of this day hundreds of church members were going to God in prayer on this specific concern. Powerful!”

Dawn also likes the private messaging feature for quick notes to send to fellow members, and has found optional user apps to be useful “having misplaced my own copy of My Utmost for His Highest by Oswald Chambers, I was excited to find these daily devotions available on the Table.”

Dawn would like to see more use of the discussion board feature of the Table.

“I could see the Table being used … as a place one could bring up any topic and we could become engaged in a healthy discussion, or dare I say, a healthy debate, and a place to toss out a random question about anything and have it answered and/or discussed … Discussions about the sermon; where it may have spoken to you personally, prompted a new thought, or even left you with more questions.”

As Dawn’s schedule settles down and family commitments at their former church have been met, they see themselves attending Zion more regularly and getting more involved in traditional ministries. “The Table will still be a rich part of my own church involvement. I see the Table in its relative infancy as anything else in life. We need to put it to use a number of times before it becomes a habit. Only then can we identify where our lives are enriched by an integral addition to church involvement.”

More About the Table

The Table is a private network aimed at strengthening faith-sustaining relationships among people at Zion. It’s a place where we can pray and share and build connections with each other any time of the day or night.

The key parts of the Table include a 24-hour-a day prayer chain, an online church directory, and a place to serve and share with each other.

If you haven’t tried the Table yet, here’s how to join Dawn and 260 other Zion members:

Go to ZionBuffalo.TableProject.org to set up your profile

Set up a profile with a picture of your face

Set your email preferences so you get emails about selected posts

If you have a smartphone or tablet, download the free Android or iOS app.

(Online Community continued from page 4)

The More You Know… Weddings at

Zion

In the last year, I’ve worked to streamline the wedding process at Zion to reflect community expectations as well as ensure that we provide a great experience for our couples and their families! Below you’ll find the people and the costs associated with a wedding. Zion falls in the midst of community norms on costs, but our trademark hospitality really sets the stage for an amazing day!

Pastor Luke

At Zion Lutheran church, we believe that the wedding ceremony is at the heart of any wedding

day. It is in the ceremony that the bride and groom gather before God, family, and friends to make their promises of love and commitment to one

another. Because of that importance, we surround the ceremony with the right expertise

to make sure everything runs well and according to plan. Those people and their time, as well as the use of certain materials and a well-maintained facility,

are reflected in the individual line items and costs.

Parent Days Out

Sunday, December 2, 1-5:00 pm

Saturday, December 8, 9am-1pm

Parents, enjoy some time to prepare for the Christmas holidays while your children are experiencing some fun and faith-filled activities!

Zion's Mission Jamaica Committee is hosting these childcare events as a fundraiser for the February 2013 mission trip.

Children birth to 6th grade can enjoy an art activity, snacks, devotions, play time and a special movie at Zion. Please bring winter outdoor clothes for your child as some of the fun activities may be outside, weather permitting.

Care will be provided by Zion volunteers and supervised by qualified daycare providers.

Cost is $10 per child up to $25 per family.

Register online at ZionBuffalo.org/PNO, at the Information Desk, or by contacting the church office for a registration form. If you have a child with special circumstances, pre registration is required to ensure appropriate staff are available.

Thank you for your support to our Zion missionaries going to Jamaica.

Here is how it breaks down

$150 Deposit/Facility use: This is so that

we can reserve the date. That date is all

yours and you’ve just reserved the right

for us to say “no” to any other events or

weddings on that day. We promise to have

a clean and well-maintained church for

your wedding day.

This means that the custodian will work

the day before and then before Sunday

morning to make sure it is ready again for

worship. You also have access to pew

bows, candles, and other items that our

wedding coordinator will arrange with

you. This is a new rate for 2013

weddings. We have been able to group

some items together and manage staff in

such a way as to provide some cost

savings.

Total building cost = $150

$200 Pastor Honorarium: The pastors at

Zion keep their schedules very busy and

work very full weeks. Weddings are in

addition to their daily work and usually

mean giving up time with their families.

This gift reflects the appreciation of the

wedding couple.

$150 Wedding Coordinator: The wedding

coordinator walks with you through the

whole process and is here on the day of

the wedding to make sure everything goes

smoothly. They put in many hours to make

your day special. Working with a Zion

wedding coordinator is required for any

weddings in the church (based on 8

contact hours).

$125 Organist/Pianist: This is the typical

fee for one of our recommended organists/

pianists. You may bring in your own

pianist if you arrange it. Alternatively,

you may use an iPod or CDs if you

coordinate with the Sound Tech.

$25-50 Sound Technician: This is the

person that makes everything sound great,

helps people to hear what is going on, and

will typically make you a CD recording of

the service.

Total cost for the people that

make your wedding ceremony

perfect = at most $525

Peace of mind on your

wedding day = priceless

15

Our Mission... Zion seeks to

Share Christ’s Word,

Strengthen our Faith, and

Serve those in need.

Our Vision… Helping people experience the joy of

life in Christ by:

1. Celebrating on Sundays:

Creating Sunday morning experiences that invite, welcome, engage and inspire people to live for Christ.

2. Living God’s Call:

Engaging people in a process of discipleship which inspires them to

trust in Christ, grow in faith, and serve God’s world.

3. Connecting with Care:

Creating a community where people are connected in

relationships and supported in need.

16

Redeemer’s Maria Anderson

Maria Anderson is serving as intern this school year at Zion’s mission partner, Redeemer Lutheran Church, in North Minneapolis.

Although I am a student at Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary in Berkeley, California, I grew up in Lindstrom, MN, and am excited to come back to Minnesota for my internship. I attended Concordia College in Moorhead, where I studied Social Work, became very active in Campus Ministry and Service, and spent a lot of time singing and touring with the choir. After graduating in 2009, I moved to Oakland for a year with Lutheran Volunteer Corps (LVC). During that year I used my social work degree to serve as a case manager for people who are both housed and living on the streets in Berkeley. Also during LVC, I joined the Sierra Pacific Synod Anti-Racism Work Group; a group of passionate pastors and lay leaders in the Bay Area committed to making God’s Kingdom a reality for all, through organizing trainings, speakers, and analyzing policies within the church structure. It was the culmination of many of these past experiences that brought me to seminary and to internship at Redeemer.

I am really looking forward to learning and growing within the diverse, vibrant and faithful community at Redeemer. Specifically, I am excited to utilize my passions for the church, anti-racism work, community, music and the arts at Redeemer as well as discovering new passions and interests.

Thanksgiving Meals

Zion Church will again be the distribution point for people served by the Buffalo Food Shelf to pick up the turkey and fixings for their

Thanksgiving Meal. While they are here, kids will be provided with treats, and families will be served a

small meal. Sponsors for this year’s Thanksgiving Meals are Discovery Elementary School, St

Francis Xavier Church and School, the Buffalo Food Shelf, and Love INC-Big Woods. Distribution date is Thursday, November 15.

The Blessing of Meals

Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law

of Christ.

Galatians 6:2

Food For Friends is a ministry that

delivers both warm and frozen meals to

those in need, primarily, but not

exclusively, within our congregation. Did

you know we have a freezer in the back

hallway of the kitchen that YOU can take

meals from and deliver them to someone

who is going through a particularly

difficult time in their life? I'm involved

with Food For Friends because it's a

“sweet spot” for me – where a ministry

need crosses with a passion.

I enjoy cooking and helping to ease the

burdens of others. I have met some

wonderful people and as a bonus have

enjoyed being able to witness God and

many of His blessings though this

ministry. Food For Friends is just one way

Zion can show the love of Christ by loving

our neighbor and sharing one another's

burdens.

Julie Kabe

17

What Are We Pinning?

Bible Verses, Lutheran “Stuff”

Harvest of Hands Craft Ideas

People You Will Meet at Zion

Pinterest.com/ZionBuffalo

You know who else isn’t a huge fan of leftovers? God. Like a great meal with so many options to fill ourselves, we can get real excited about all of our blessings in life, plan and spend our income to pay the bills and provide enjoyment, and then we remember where all the blessings came from to begin with, pull out the figurative Cool Whip container, and dump any remaining leftovers onto a plate for God. I know that may be a little extreme, but I’m trying to make a point.

Why don’t we think about it this way: Give God that place at the head of the table. When you’re passing around the bounty of the harvest, how about God gets the first scoop or helping? God really does deserve the first helping of all that we have so that we can bless God’s mission in this world. I’m always talking about having a plan for our finances, and putting God first is both a joy and a blessing. Give first to God and live off the rest. Give God the best of what you have, with the first thought on your mind. We don’t get excited for leftovers, so let’s not leave them for God.

Remember your blessings this season, and make the most of God’s gifts in your life!

(A Season to Celebrate continued from page 3)

grandkids, mother/daughter and father/son combos, and some seniors. This pretty much runs the course as to who can get involved.

When in Duluth, we’ll be working with children for a day camp as well as working on various construction and home repair items. All people and all gifts are welcome. God will find a way to make the most of your serving!

Questions? Ask Pastor Luke

Want to sign up? There is a spot in the sign up book at the information desk or sign up online at ZionBuffalo.org/events!

(Duluth Mission Trip continued from page 2)

The Voice

A monthly publication of Zion Lutheran Church

Upcoming Deadlines

November 12 at 8am for December Issue

December 5 at 8am for January Issue

Editor: Angela Bengtson

[email protected]

This Month’s Cover

Sunday School students working on projects

for Harvest of Hands

Contact Us

[email protected]

www.ZionBuffalo.org

Office Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30am-

4:30pm (closes at noon summer Fridays)

Ph 763.682.1245 / Fax 763.684.1967

1200 Highway 25 South, Buffalo (across

from 13th St S.)

PO Box 88, Buffalo, MN 55313

18

Zion Staff

Ted Vanderpan: Senior Pastor

ext. 304 | [email protected]

Luke Schmidt: Pastor of Congregational Life


Sherilyn Burgdorf: Shared Ministry Director


Holly Husom: Co-Director of Christian Education


Kirsten Kelly: Co-Director of Christian Education


Myron Crawford: Director of Youth Ministries


Jim Onstad: Youth Staff

Dawn Bestick: Office Administrator / Receptionist

ext. 301/302 | [email protected]

Ann Lyons: Office Administrator / Receptionist

Ext. 301/302 | [email protected]

Angela Bengtson: Communications & Membership


Sue Stensrud: Financial Secretary


Ryan Bjokne: Facilities & Grounds Manager

[email protected]

Louis Nagel: Part-time Custodian

Missy Peterson & Laurel Lundeen: Nursery Staff

Launi Stuhr: Kids’ Place Staff

Michael Walsh: Coordinator of Music

Bob Strommen: Sound System Coordinator

Congregational Council

Roger Brenny

Bill Deneen

Mike Davis

Kelly Hanson

Deana Jeske

Beverly Koopman

Sue Lyrek

Tom Moline

Mike Newman

Steve Peterson

Lorraine Statema

Wanda Weber

Inside

Zion Lutheran Church

1200 Highway 25 S.

PO Box 88

Buffalo, MN 55313

www.ZionBuffalo.org

Address Service Requested

Standard

U.S. Postage

PAID

Permit 11

Buffalo MN 55313

Address Label Here

Harvest of Hands 2

A Season to Celebrate 3

Dawn Fischer 4

Service of Remembrance 6

Thanksgiving Eve Worship 7

Give to the Max Day 8

Personal Blessing in Disguise 12

Sarah Blake 13

Fall Mosaic 14

Weddings at Zion 15

Parent Days Out 15

Novem

ber 2

01

2

*

* *

ZionBuffalo.org

Sign up by November 1 for Zion’s private tour of the

American Swedish Institute in Minneapolis on Thursday, November

29.

Perhaps you’ll get to meet Freyja, resident goat mascot at the ASI

Transportation available.

RSVP ASAP

Photo from the ASI Facebook page

november 2012 newsletter

Documents

duluth mission trip

bu f f

ages mission trip

annual harvest of hands

harvest of hands festival

o r g harvest of hands

great trip

o f f i c e