Stories from St. John's Lutheran Church

Adult Fellowship Event - February 12th

2012-01-26T18:29:00.000-08:00

It's the progressive dinner that stays put.

Every few years the Membership Committee puts together a progressive dinner. It always gets great reviews and is very well attended, but it's hard work. So this year we're resting between progressive dinners and trying something a little different. It's adult fellowship at First Course Bistro!

Here's the scoop:

Hearty appetizers are $15 per person (pay at the door)

and drinks can be purchased separately.

Sunday, February 12 (5:00-8:00pm)

First Course Bistro (56th St. & Chicago Ave.)

www.firstcoursebistro.com

All St. John's Members, Friends & Neighbors are Welcome!

St. John's Book Club - Lighter Humor

2012-01-23T12:53:00.000-08:00

A novel!

We've been reading some pretty heavy stuff. Time for something lighter
and a little bit funnier.

Our choice? Major Pettigrew's Last Stand by Helen Simonson.

We'll meet in the church lounge at 11:30am on Sunday, February 12 to discuss.

Bring a quotation that sticks with you after reading the book

and any thought you have about how the story speaks to faith. Join us!

Learn to Knit Group

2012-01-19T12:46:00.000-08:00

The Learn to Knit group is back in the lounge this winter!

Sunday, January 29

Sunday, February 26

Sunday, March 25

Bring a project you're working on or we've got yarn and needles.

Show someone your latest skill.

Teach a beginner the basics.

All are welcome! We'll see you during fellowship hour at 11:30 in the lounge.

The Blog Study - January: Confessing Christ

2012-01-01T13:19:00.000-08:00

Theme Verse: "I believe, help my unbelief." - Mark 9:24

Opening Prayer: God, open our eyes to see you, our ears to hear your Word, our minds to understand your ways, and our mouths to speak your praise. Amen.

Introduction: The heart of Mark's gospel is like a quickly scribbled diary. We move from one place to another - Jesus feeds people, Pharisees bicker, a boy is healed, people wonder, Jesus questions both insiders and outsiders about their faith - and all these things happen on the move. Mark begins each new paragraph with dynamic movement that makes us aware of this busy timeline. Mark takes us on a hurried journey to the cross, so we need to keep our eyes and ears open along the way.

Like Trees: Read Mark 8:14-21 and Mark 8:22-26
We have been traveling with the disciples for several chapters now and, while they are insiders on this journey, they are still having trouble understanding what it means to follow. Jesus is quizzing them, asking if they understand what being in the presence of Jesus means and how depending on the bread of life changes you. They're fuzzy at best and that's quite reassuring to us as modern day disciples!

This is a peculiar healing story that is unique to Mark's gospel. This story is especially useful for those dwelling in doubt and hazy belief. Unlike most biblical healings, this one happens gradually. Jesus puts his hands on the man's eyes twice before he can see clearly.

How does this kind of miracle create greater depth for the conversation Jesus was just having with the disciples?
How does it speak to your faith journey and encounters with Jesus?

Caesarea Philippi: Read Mark 8:27-33
Do you recognize the responses given in 8:28? The disciples had no problem listing the powerful and prophetic identities people were connecting to Jesus - there was a whole list floating around as Jesus' reputation grew! But it's quite another thing to confess what you think - to admit your own ideas publicly. This second question isn't gossip or up for debate. Jesus asked the disciples to be vulnerable and honest and radical about something that could get them into trouble and change their lives forever. And Peter was bold enough (and foolish enough?) to answer in front of everyone. "You are the Messiah."

His answer is relational and inspires Jesus to teach a tough lesson. Here, on the way to Philippi, he predicts his own suffering, death and resurrection. He tells them everything that's complicated about being the Messiah and its more than Peter can take. Jesus does not suggest that Peter is Satan, but suggests that Satan tempts Jesus (and all of us) with the easy way out.

How do we speak about Jesus today?
Do others hear in our own speaking a confession of Jesus as Lord?

The Cost and Consequences of Discipleship: Read Mark 8:34-9:1
A crowd gathers around Jesus and the disciples as the conversation continues. Jesus makes clear that discipleship is the ultimate loss and gain. As Christians, we believe the death and resurrection of Jesus produce the Great Exchange. Jesus claims everything that belongs to us - our selves, our stuff, our sins, our sorrows - and Jesus gives us everything he has in return - forgiveness, new life, freedom from death, eternal salvation.

Sounds like a pretty good deal...but why is it so difficult to live into?
Consider your own life and faith. What have you lost to Christ? What have you gained?
What can we learn about active discipleship from those who followed Jesus in Mark's gospel?

On the Mountaintop: Read Mark 9:2-13
Transfiguration Sunday can be awfully confusing theologically. How does this moment on the mountaintop relate to our lives and faith today? Revisit other mountaintop stories with Moses (Exodus 34) and Elijah (1 Kings 19) to see this moment through the historical, Jewish lens of Peter, James and John.

Peter is quick to speak and suggest a dwelling place built for Jesus and the prophets. He longs for the incarnation (God with us), but this is not the time, the place or the way God is choosing to be with us for the long haul. In fact, it's all downhill to Jerusalem and Golgotha now. Literally!

Belief or Unbelief: Read Mark 9:14-29
What a powerful story! Perhaps it has been misused to emphasize our faith, suggesting that, "if I believe hard enough, miracles will come my way". But Jesus is speaking about his own authority. The power of Jesus can overcome all threats to life abundant and anything that threatens God's perfection.

The father's confession, "I believe - help my unbelief!" is honest and raw. Fear and doubt are part of this journey of faith. In one breath, he confesses both how much he trusts Jesus and how easy mistrust can be.

What illnesses or distresses challenge your own faith and confidence in God?
Where have you found comfort and encouragement when wrestling with questions about God?

The remainder of chapter nine sounds increasingly dramatic. Mark is preparing us for something big. Next month we'll focus more on Jesus foretelling his suffering and death in Jerusalem.

Closing Prayer: Holy God, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, you have revealed yourself to us in the lesson we studied today. Help us to trust that you are ever near and will daily lift us from unbelief to trusting faith. Amen.

Best Christmas Program Yet!

2011-12-20T11:57:00.000-08:00

...of course, I've only been around for four of them. Still, Sunday's was a silly and beautiful hit. The five fifth graders were holy messengers with most of the speaking parts. Several kids played instruments like guitar, flute and clarinet. One young shepherd was having a rough morning and spent most of the performance sitting forlorn on the edge of the stage. I suppose there could have been one shepherd unimpressed by the good news that night!

All the little kids joined voices in chorus setting each scene with titles like, "Scene Two: Off to Bethlehem!" One little girl who hadn't attended any of the rehearsals wandered upstairs with the others midway through the worship service. And, sure enough, she was on stage a half hour later wearing wings and singing most of the words. That's one of my favorite things about this church. Just show up and you get swept in.

Parents, grandparents, cousins and friends filled the fellowship hall with giggles and sang along. You can't help but participate in the story we all know so well. The tale of God coming to dwell with us is told regardless of how snazzy the script, how loud the microphones, how on pitch the voices. People heard that Love Has Come even though one little shepherd wasn't feeling it. And, whether he likes it or not, love came for him too.

This video is going around YouTube and Facebook right now and I crack up watching it. The angel with the big wings is belting it out for all to hear...with such vigor that she is the only one we can hear! But again, that doesn't get in the way of the story being told. In fact, it's a good reminder of how bold God was to involve us at all!

God of hope, thank you for calling us into the story and giving us parts. May your Son come into the world both in spite of and because of the way we get all tangled up in your presence on earth. Rejoice, Emmanuel! Amen.

Merry Christmas!
Pastor Meta Carlson

The Present, Not the Future

2011-12-01T10:28:00.000-08:00

Sometimes I hear people say that they like to see kids in worship because "kids are the future of the Church", but I don't think that's true. Kids are here right now. They learn faster and dream bigger than grown ups do. If you ask them about your congregation - what's great and what could use some improvement - they're not afraid to tell you. And there's nothing far off or futuristic about that.

St. John's is a small congregation. We worship 100-150 on a Sunday morning. We have 20-25 kids enrolled in Sunday school and 7 students in confirmation. People know each other. Intergenerational relationships happen both naturally and intentionally. I believe that Holy Communion at St. John's extends beyond the altar rail and into the Fellowship Hall after worship where adults and kids alike share sprinkled donuts and laughter.

Around here we tell kids they can lead worship in all kinds of ways. Anything their parents do, they can do too. Preparing communion, singing in the choir, reading scripture, ushering and saying prayers do not have an age requirement. It's one thing to tell kids that, but it's quite another for them to believe you and act on that invitation.

That's what happened with three fifth graders last month. Adler, Emma and Eleanor told me they wanted to be readers during worship. They wanted to use the microphone and stand at the lectern and read just like the grown ups do each week. So we practiced. We found great big step stools and slowed down our speech and emphasized the last word of each sentence and paused for punctuation. Rehearsing only made them more excited for the real thing.

These three were our readers on Thanksgiving Eve. They were mailed complicated texts from Deuteronomy, Psalms and 2 Corinthians in advance. They practiced at home. They showed up early to go over things one more time. Their excitement was palpable.

"Can we wear robes and sit up front, too?" one asked. Another agreed and when the third hesitated, the first reminded her, "When you wear a robe, it means you're important." Wow. Suddenly, we had a teaching moment about albs and stoles and the priesthood of all believers.

There were lots of excited giggles before the service, but when the prelude began, they took their leadership role and public seats very seriously. They sang all the hymns (or at least moved their lips), followed along and read with great clarity. They proved for every person of every age that it was true - we are all invited to lead, no matter how high our step stool may be.

After the service they received compliments and affirmation of their gifts while sharing pie downstairs. All three told me they want to read on Sunday mornings from now on. Not in the distant future or when they're older. They are leaders now - right here in the present. So look for them on Sunday mornings in 2012. Let them lead you in worship and remember that they are already the Church.

- Pastor Meta Carlson

The Blog Bible Study - December: Beyond the Boundaries

2011-11-30T13:20:00.000-08:00

Theme Verse: "How many loaves have you? Go and see..." - Mark 6:38

Opening Prayer: Mighty God, you open wide your hand and sustain all living things. Open our lives that we might be fed by your Word; in Christ's name we pray. Amen.

Introduction: Earlier this week I attended an event for clergy passionate about social action. Anita Hill, an ELCA pastor in St. Paul, spoke about being a prophetic voice at the fringe of society. It's hard to be radical when we're steeped in the status quo. There's more to lose and it's harder to create change from the middle of our comfort zones. Jesus calls us to be a prophetic voice on the edges of society. Like a river, the fastest flow and the risky spots and the newest growth happens along the shoreline. It's harder out there. It's scrappier. But that's where Jesus is in these chapters of Mark and it's where we're called to be, too.

Setting the Scene: We begin in Mark 6:30 as the attention turns from John the Baptist's death to the public and foreign ministry of Jesus. There is already a pattern of retreat, rest and renewal happening in Mark and it's good to know that even Jesus needed to refuel every now and then. He first went to a deserted place in chapter one after his baptism. There he prayed and spent time with God apart from distractions. Now he invites the disciples to come with him for these same reasons. He shows them how to sabbath.

Loaves and Fishes: Read Mark 6:30-44.
While that retreat was well intentioned, it didn't last long! The crowds followed on foot and soon there are thousands in the desert with them. Jesus and the disciples react differently to the situation at hand. So many people in the middle of nowhere! It's getting late and Jesus should stop teaching so they can all head into town to buy food.

Their concern is compassionate, but consumed by logistics. Instead of taking a break and sending them all away, Jesus illustrates abundant life and God's blessing by showing the crowds that there is more than enough. He widens their lens and exceeds their expectations. Jesus compassion transcends logistics and he calls the disciples to participate in the miracle. You give them something to eat. Go and see how many loaves and fish there are. Get everyone to sit down in groups. Pass the food out. Collect the leftovers. People are renewed.

What hunger initiatives do you support through your congregation, the wider church and other organizations?
Why does food remain such an important part of the church's ministry today?
Compare Mark 6:41 to Mark 14:22. What does this mean for your everyday bread? What does this mean for the Holy Communion we share?

From Here to There: Read Mark 6:45-56
Again, Jesus takes time to be alone and refueled by God in prayer. When life interrupts the time we mean for solitude, reflection and prayer, it's okay to try again once the crowds disperse! Again, we see Jesus' power to calm the seas and are reminded of his intimate connection with the God of Israel in Exodus 3:14. "It is I," sounds like God speaking to Moses from the burning bush, "I am who I am".

The disciples are puzzled and we are reminded once again that following Jesus doesn't mean we have it all figured out. Being a disciples doesn't mean having all the answers or being confident all the time. It means being scared and confused and hopeful...and caught up in the wonderment anyway!

The Tradition of the Elders: Read Mark 7:1-8
Ah, the sweet tension of old traditions and new ideas! The church in every age knows these conversations well. Note that verses 3-4 appear in parentheses. Mark wanted to make clear to all readers, even Gentiles unfamiliar with Jewish rituals, why ritual cleanliness before eating was important. Read Isaiah 29:13-16 to better understand the passage Jesus is quoting in order to remind his audience of the difference between God's word and the traditions we develop around our interpretation of God's word.

Can you think of some tensions that arise between established traditions and fresh innovations today?
How do both tradition and innovation contribute to the vitality of life at St. John's?

A Place at the Table: Read Mark 7:24-30
Mark's gospel is filled with interruptions that prove to be the best stories we have about Jesus' life. It seems he is often on his way from one place to another when someone gets in his way with a desperate plea. Here Jesus is far from home in a diverse land that is now part of Lebanon. Racial and religious tensions are high and Jesus meets her begging with what seems to be disinterest and disgust. But she persists with clever words. She preaches to him. She tells him about how wide God's mercy can be. And then her life is changed. In a moment, Jesus calls her into the abundant grace and life of God and her daughter is made well.

How does position and privilege play out in the world today? Are there some in your own neighborhood with greater access to health care and education than others? How are you called to participate in that struggle and conversation?
What connection do you see between this story and the reception of women's voices in the church today?

The Word is Out: Read Mark 7:31-37
The Decapolis or "Ten Cities" is an urban setting rich with diversity, but far from home. How do they already know about Jesus? Word has gotten out. This is the place our friend in chains from Mark 5:1-21 went proclaiming the good news just a few chapters ago. While John the Baptist has been killed and Jesus is aware of the political implications of his ministry, keeping the gospel of Jesus Christ under wraps is becoming impossible. Jesus opens more than the man's ears and mouth - he opens a whole new world for those excluded and hurting. Each healing reminds readers that this gift of Christ transforms our whole beings in ways we cannot hide and ignore. The secret is out.

Looking Ahead: Next month we'll consider all we've learned about Jesus' identity in this first half of Mark's gospel. Some have sought out Jesus and believe fervently. Some are curious and skeptical. Others are fearful and insecure. What do you think of this one "who has done everything well" (7:37)?

Closing Prayer: Gracious God, in Jesus we learn to see the whole world in a new way. We thank you for those who have taught us to see strangers and foreigners, refugees and immigrants as your children, too. Amen.

St. John's Book Club's Next Pick

2011-11-22T13:49:00.000-08:00

Next Book: "Under the Banner of Heaven: A Story of Violent Faith" by Jon Krakauer
Next Meeting: Sunday, January 8 at 12pm in the Lounge

The book club met on Sunday at noon to discuss "A Great Improvisation" by Stacy Schiff. Some read the whole thing. Some read most of it. Some admitted to reading just a few pages. But together, we had a good discussion about Ben Franklin's effect on American foreign policy and the birth of America.

We all agreed to choose a shorter piece for our next choice. Several good books were suggested and Under the Banner of Heaven by Jon Krakauer just barely edged out Sarah's Key by Tatiana de Rosnay. Maybe Sarah's Key will be our fourth choice!

This is where I need to apologize to Bill Matson. I assured him that "Under the Banner of Heaven" was less than 300 pages in length. Boy, did I blush when I pulled it off my shelf last night and realized it's 380 pages! Sorry, Bill. But the two who recommended this book assure us that it's a fast read and difficult to put down.

Click here to learn about Under the Banner of Heaven and to order it from Amazon.com. We will have no trouble diving into discussions about the nature of faith and the Word of God after sharing this story! Join us in the St. John's lounge on January 8, 2012 at noon for discussion. Bring a bag lunch and a quotation that stayed with you even after you finished the book. Thanks again to those who have come together for this Book Club journey. It's fun to read with others who are new to the book club experience and a great way to become better acquainted with our brothers and sisters at St. John's

- Pastor Meta

The Blog Bible Study - November: Power & Authority

2011-11-03T09:37:00.000-07:00

Theme Verse: He said to them, “Why are you afraid? Have you no faith?” – Mark 4:40

Opening Prayer: Holy God, be in our study and our learning. Fill us with understanding and fruitful living, for Jesus’ sake. Amen.

Introduction: Mark is moving quickly from his thesis statement in 1:1 to the cross. Everything he chooses to include until the crucifixion is here only because it points to the death and resurrection that change the whole world. Each healing, teaching, conversation and journey help Mark show us that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God.

A Bit of Background: The momentum is ramping up in Chapter 4. Jesus is surrounded by crowds wherever he goes and begins teaching in parables about the kingdom of God. For the next few chapters, the Sea of Galilee is a looming character. Jesus gets in a boat several times and “goes to the other side”. This movement is more radical than a pontoon ride across Lake Minnetonka – crossing over means encountering new people, religions, cultures and superstitions each time. Sometimes Jesus and his Jewish followers were very out of place, so listen for hospitality or lack of welcome wherever he goes.

Teaching with Parables: Read Mark 4:1-20

Jesus sat with the crowds like a Rabbi would do in those days. Jesus concluded parables with words like 4:9 frequently, always inviting listeners to hear with their whole bodies and their whole lives. These words were familiar to his Jewish students, who remember Isaiah (28:23) and Jeremiah (5:21) using similar phrases.

When Jesus is alone with his disciples in 4:10-12, he begins speaking about God’s kingdom in terms of “insiders” and “outsiders”. There are mysteries about God’s will in this world that require our belief and God’s revealing. And it’s true! When we believe in the power of Holy Communion, the meal becomes more than a piece of bread and a sip of wine. Baptism becomes more than a few words and tap water. They mean something because God’s power in ordinary places has been revealed to us through the Word – scripture and Christ.

This is a powerful theme in many popular books and movies. Can you remember the power of revelation – layers of mysteries some can see and others can’t – in popular works like Harry Potter, the Wizard of Oz, It’s a Wonderful Life, Lord of the Rings and other classics?
Can you name a time in your life when the word of God spoke so compellingly to you that your response was clear and strong? Or does God often deal with you more subtly, with hints and nudges that you only later understand? Why are some seasons in our lives so fertile and others more like the rocky soil or thorny patch?

In the Boat with Jesus: Read Mark 4:35-41
The Sea of Galilee is surrounded by high hills and weather, so weather on the water could change quite rapidly. As the move across the water again, Jesus has fallen asleep in the boat. It's good to know Jesus needs rest from work, too! Their question for Jesus in the midst of the storm is an ancient one: Don't you care that we're dying? Look to Psalm 42 or Psalm 46:1-3 to see this concern set in another scriptural context.

How does Jesus show that he does care they're dying?
Mark 4:41 proves that, while these followers are faithful, they're still learning what Jesus' power and authority mean for their lives. How are you still learning about the power and authority of Jesus?

Back and Forth Again: Read Mark Chapter 5
If I were a disciple with Jesus at the end of Chapter 4, I'm not sure I would have boarded the boat for "the other side". Things were going well. The crowds were huge and people were receiving Jesus with open hearts. Why would we leave that for a land where we might not be so well received? People there did not read the Torah or follow kosher laws. It could get hostile.

If you only read one chapter of Mark this month, read Chapter 5. Jesus goes over to the other side and comes face to face with a foreign social system. And then he turns everything upside down when he sets the man in chains free from demons, being different and shame. It's created chaos and the people want him to leave. Change is hard. Jesus is uncomfortable. And while the man in chains wishes to follow Jesus back across the sea, Jesus sends him deeper into his own culture and community as a new witness. It's risky. It's a church plant. It's mission.

When Jesus returns to familiar territory, he heals immediately. The woman has been hemorraging for as long as the little girl has been alive. It's two stories of desperation. Two stories of new life. One interrupted the other and we are reminded that real life happens in the interruptions. The whole story unfolds while Jesus is, once again, on the move.

Do you know someone who has suffered for a long time without relief? If so, how can you offer healing and support?
Can you think of a time your schedule or expectations were interrupted by something that came to be more important than what you had in mind?

Looking Ahead
In Chapter 6 Jesus returns home. Like members of his childhood community, we begin to wonder about this man. Who is he? How is this boy who grew up next door capable of such things? His power and authority are questioned, but two things are now certain: his reputation as a teacher and healer are well established and he cares deeply for all the people he encounters.

Closing Prayer: Gracious Savior, we lift before you all those we know who are dealing with chronic illness, those in crisis, and all who bring comfort and healing to those weighed down by disease. We thank you for your healing mercy, praying in the name of Christ Jesus, our solace and our hope. Amen.

Fall at St. John's

2011-10-28T08:24:00.000-07:00

The Music Series Presents "Handbells and Hotdogs"

Sunday, October 30 at noon in Fellowship Hall

This kid friendly event includes a free hot dog lunch and an introduction to handbells. Members of our new, intergenerational handbell group will share their music and teach us basic ringing techniques.

While reservations are appreciated (612-827-4406) they are not required.

A Season of Gratitude ~ November 6 - 23

All Saints Sunday and Commitment Sunday

Sunday, November 6 at 10:00am

We remember the saints who have gone before us and pledge our gifts for 2012.

WELCA Sunday ~ Noisy Offering ~ Gratitude All Together

Sunday, November 13 at 10:00am & 11:15am

Bring your loose change! We share our gifts and hear them add up to make a big difference.
Then all ages gather for the Gratitude All Together in Fellowship Hall after worship.

"Pack the Church" Sunday!

Sunday, November 20 at 10:00am

Invite your family, friends, neighbors, coworkers, homebound members - together we'll fill the pews! Bring a canned food item to benefit our Community Meal food baskets.

Thanksgiving Eve Worship & Pie

Wednesday, November 23 at 7:00pm

We hear readings about God's abundance and sing hymns of praise.
Worship is led by our kids and youth. Then dessert in Fellowship Hall!

How do you celebrate Halloween?

2011-10-13T09:27:00.000-07:00

Martin Luther chose the eve of October 31 to post the 95 theses because he knew there would be a big crowd at church the next day - the celebration of All Saints.

These days people mark All Hallows Eve by dressing up, asking for candy, visiting neighbors and causing a little bit of mischief. It's a night of masks and alter egos before we remember that we are clothed with a much bigger identity than our silly costumes - we're clothed with Christ and made saints in the Kingdom of God.

It sounds like a stretch, but it's true!

This Halloween, add a new tradition to the pumpkins and scary stories. Our neighbor on 48th and Nicollet is working with UNICEF to fight hunger for kids all over the world on October 31. Martin Onuh from CK Food & Fuel is trying to raise $240 by Halloween for the United Nations Children's Fund.

Learn more about this fundraiser to help hunger kids all over the world by visiting Martin's Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF link. Stop in and make a donation between now and October 31 in honor of all the saints and our call to serve the hungry. It's a great opportunity for neighbors to work together!

The Blog Bible Study - October: Mother & Brothers

2011-10-01T08:00:00.000-07:00

Theme Verse: "Whoever does the will of God is my brother and sister and mother." - Mark 3:35

Opening Prayer: God of home and hearth, you bless families all over the world. As we study, remind us of the larger family of sisters and brothers we have been given in Jesus Christ, in whose name we pray. Amen.

Introduction: Do you remember the first time you visited a friend's house or spent a weekend with your spouse's family? What did you notice or envy or shy away from? What was it like for you to have visitors in your home as a child? Were you embarrassed of your siblings or parents? Were you proud to be a host? Sometimes these early experiences shape our definitions of family and home well into the future. Maybe you grew up admiring a neighbors wrap around porch and now you have your own. Maybe you wished for family dinners like a good friend always had and now your family sits down together every night.

We spend very few Sundays in worship learning about Jesus' early years and that's, in part, because we don't have much information about his life between the manger and the Jordan River. We begin in the seaside community of Capernaum where we remember that Jesus grew up with a human family. This month, we make time for that fact to set the stage.

A Bit of Background: Many of Jesus' teachings and miracles happened in small, rural towns. Still, the most remote areas were affected by the complex political climate. Being Jewish in the Roman Empire was far from simple. Religious and political leaders were constantly balancing an allegiance to God and the Empire. Many sects of Judaism are known today by the compromises they made to stay out of political trouble so they could worship under the political radar. Knowing this, we begin to understand the controversial moves Jesus made in drawing attention to tax collectors, soldiers and government officials throughout his ministry.

Made Whole and Well: Read Mark 2:1-12
Jesus was not the only healer in his day, but there was something about his authority and the desperate friendship of these five people that made them climb on top of the roof and cut a hole above Jesus.

It was uncommon for well/clean people to touch or associate with sick/unclean people. Imagine what kind of relationship these four people had with the paralytic man. What might cause them to, not only touch him, but hoist him onto a roof and then dangerously chop a hole under their own feet?
Jesus says the man's sins are forgiven. Huh? He's not there because he needs to get some regrets off of his chest. He wants to be physically healed! Why did Jesus choose these words and why did they make the scribes so surprised?

The Company We Keep: Read Mark 2:13-17
I don't know about you, but I tend to rely on my calendar. Each morning I look at it before leaving the house to make sure I'm prepared for the things I've scheduled. If someone approached me in the middle of a busy day and suggested I put everything down to head in a new, fuzzy direction I would probably decline the offer. But there must be something striking about the way Jesus approaches ordinary people and invites them along. I imagine "impressive" people watching this scene, shocked by Jesus' wide welcome and unpredictability.

Have you ever been an outcast or an outsider? What was that experience like?
Have you ever shared a meal with people who fit into different categories than you do?
Have you ever felt called to follow Jesus in a new and unexpected direction?

Sabbath Customs & Controversy: Read Mark 2:21-3:6
Details, details. Sometimes we follow the letter of the law as though it has the final word. Other times we explain it away because our preferences don't agree with the law's requirements of our time or efforts.

Do you have vivid memories of remembering the Sabbath as a child? If so, what?
What does Sabbath mean to you today?
Why do you think God gave humankind the Sabbath and how could our relationship with Sabbath change to better appreciate this gift?

On the Road Again: Read Mark 3:7-30
People crowd around Jesus, an image that helps us imagine his authority among the crowds. Throughout the gospels Jesus is confronted by demonic spirits who plainly name his true identity as the Son of God. These scenes give us some insight into the ways physical and emotional illnesses were understood in his time, but also the tension between Jesus showing us who he is and the clear proclamation of his identity.

Some gospel authors emphasize Jesus' secretive nature regarding public confession of Jesus as Messiah. Other authors let unlikely characters name his power clearly before Jesus hushes them and instead lets his ministry unfold slowly through his actions. What do you think Mark is trying to do here? Why does Mark choose to foreshadow in this way at this point in his gospel?

It is good to know that even Jesus gets tired or needs alone time. But when he retreats to be alone or with a few disciples, he always welcomes those who find him and uses the opportunity to teach. How does Jesus use this talk of demons and Satan to his advantage and preach the truth about God?

Family Matters: Read Mark 3:31-35
At the end of chapter three, Jesus is back home in Capernaum. We have come full circle - when we began chapter two, Jesus' family was strictly defined by his genetics and household, but now he has extended family to included anyone who does the will of God. The controversy surrounding Jesus and his ministry is growing, but so is Jesus' family of followers.

Closing Prayer: Lord Jesus, we thank you for the models of faith we encounter in your holy word and in daily life. Help us, now, to be such models of trusting faith for others as we seek to be your family on earth. In your name we pray. Amen.

Who is your neighbor?

2011-09-28T15:34:00.000-07:00


Jasper and Abby helped hold signs on Living Lutheran Creed Day (9/10/11)

Labor Day BBQ helped us meet our neighbors.
The Membership Committee was thinking about that BIG call to love and welcome the neighbor. But who is our neighbor? There are so many of them! They decided to start simply with those who live in our two block radius. These neighbors were invited to a BBQ potluck in our church parking lot on Labor Day. We had no idea if people would come, but almost thirty members of the church brought food and were ready to have a good time either way.

We were overjoyed when four people came! They were wonderful and friendly and it was good to share food together. It was a fun way to practice being neighbors in this community and we hope to have more events that celebrate our presence on 49th and Nicollet surrounded by God's children nearby.

Living Lutheran Creed Day got us out of our comfort zones. WAY out.
Eighteen people showed up to make signs on Saturday, September 10. We were excited and nervous as we wrote words of hope and God's abundance on posters and pieces of cardboard. Many of us admitted that the first few minutes were hard, but it got easier - and FUN - in a hurry. Happy honks and waves far exceeded frowns. People were glad to see us and our gospel signs made so many smile. What good practice bringing out faith outside! For more information and pictures about participation from around the country, visit the Living Lutheran Creed Blog.

Lots of help at the Community Meal last week!
Three confirmation students and lots of adults helped serve a healthy lunch for our neighbors on Saturday. This tradition is almost three years old and many members of this community have experienced serving on the fourth Saturday of the month. Give it a try or come to eat yourself! The community meal is about both good company and good food.

The Blog Bible Study - September: Traveling Mercies

2011-09-01T10:04:00.000-07:00

Theme Verse: The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God has come near, repent and believe in the good news! - Mark 1:15

Opening Prayer: Gracious Spirit, open our lives to hear your living voice in these words of Mark's Gospel. Help us to listen with patience, to speak with wisdom, and to grow in understanding. In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

Introduction: Much of this study is presented in question and answer form. You might remember this structure from studying the catechism during confirmation class - Christianity has been using it for years to pass along the story. Read Mark 1:1 aloud. What a bold statement and concise summary of the next sixteen chapters! From the very first verse, Mark proclaims that this story is good news, a holy word and that Jesus is the Messiah.

And he can't wait to show us what that means. Each gospel begins in a different place, highlighting a different point in time as the beginning of the incarnation. Luke begins with the conception of John the Baptist, Matthew begins by tracing Jesus' roots back to Adam and John begins with the creation story, reminding us that Christ has always existed as a member of the Triune God. Mark begins with the baptism of Jesus, choosing to focus on the moment his official ministry began.

A Bit of Background:
When, where and why was this narrative written down?
Mark is probably an associate of St. Peter, perhaps in Rome, around 70A.D. Many of Jesus' original followers have died by this time, which may have prompted Mark to get the story down on paper.

What are some themes I should be looking for?
There are several prominent themes we will notice this year including the identity of Jesus as Christ, the meaning of discipleship, the coming kingdom of God, the tension between knowing and not knowing who Jesus is, hope in the sure promises of God, and the surprise of the resurrection.

Begin with Baptism Read Mark 1:1-11.
Mark introduces us to Jesus as a young man whose life and authority seems to fulfill what we've heard from the prophets. He doesn't want us to miss these early connections, so he quotes Isaiah and Malachi in this first chapter. Imagine the crowds gathered, hungry for something radical. While they came to the river hoping John would provide the revolution, John points to Jesus as the powerful one. So much of Mark's gospel grows out of this scene, but for now he just wants us to remember the heavenly declaration of Jesus as God's son.

Pause to share a brief story about your own baptism. What do you know about that day? Who else was there? How did it mark the beginning of your own story with God? Find the words to your favorite hymn about baptism or being God's children and share them with someone.

From Jordan to Galilee Read Mark 1:12-15
Mark is always on the move. In the Greek text, 17 sentences begin with the phrase often translated, "And then..." or "Immediately..." His is always moving us forward toward the cross and the empty tomb because this is how Jesus finally reveals himself as the true Messiah and Savior of all.

We move quickly from baptism to the wilderness where Jesus wanders for 40 days and 40 nights. Sound familiar? We have read about this same length of testing and meandering before (Noah and the Ark, the Israelites in the Desert, the Prophets Being Tested...) and explore it ourselves every Lenten season. But this time of temptation is never the final word. Jesus emerges with a call to repentance and faith.

Verse 12 says the Spirit drove Jesus into the wilderness where he was tempted right after being baptized. Why do you think the Spirit did this? What do you imagine Satan tempting Jesus to look like?

Following and Serving Read Mark 1:16-31
It's clear this good news is something that demands more than our heads or our hearts alone. In this first chapter we meet four fishermen who physically leave everything they know to follow Jesus. Demonic spirits recognize and submit to his power. Jesus heals a sick woman who begins to serve him as soon as she's well. We are most familiar with The Twelve who "come and follow" Jesus, but Mark tells many stories of other men and women whose lives are changed by an encounter with Jesus, too.

Can you think of a character in the gospels who was totally transformed by Jesus, but they went separate ways? What does this story teach you about discipleship?

The Secret's Out Read Mark 1:40-45
How do you, your church or an organization you support reach out to people with social, mental or physical diseases? How can you help include such people in the fullness of life?

Here the tension between telling and not telling begins. Why do you think Jesus told the healed man to keep quiet about the experience on the way to the temple? What does it mean that the man "went out and began to proclaim it freely"?

Looking Ahead
The next study will be posted on October 1. Until then, consider the demons crying out in 1:24. "What have you to do with us?" they asked and so do we. What does Jesus have to do with our lives - our joy and our sorrow, our hope and our pain?

Closing Prayer
Living God, just as you called others to follow and serve Jesus Christ in ancient days, send us out as ones who have been given a new identity as people of faith. Amen.

To Follow & to Serve: The Gospel of Mark Blog Study

2011-08-31T09:59:00.000-07:00

Have you have been meaning to join a Bible study because it sounds like a good idea in theory, but in practice it never comes to be? Has it been awhile since you opened your Bible at home or do you struggle to make time for another evening commitment?

If that's the case, this Blog Study is up your alley. We will wander through Mark's gospel (it's the shortest!) September - May while noticing new things about this author's context and message. It might even help you hear the good news differently on Sunday mornings - most of our gospel readings will be from Mark once Advent begins in late November.

Here's how it works: Pastor Meta will post a basic study on this blog on the first day of each month. The study is based on Gather Magazine's Bible Study, so you are welcome to find more resources at the ELCA website. This study asks you to set aside 30 minutes each month for time in the Gospel of Mark. You can access the post anytime all month and follow along on your own by posting comments to the blog or talking about it with other participants at church. Or, if you're feeling ambitious, make a commitment to study with your partner, your neighbor, a few friends or your whole family. Your little group can choose a time that works for your schedule and study style.

Join us on the journey through Mark's gospel. Together we'll find out what makes this tale unique and what the call to discipleship looks like two thousand years later.

Our First Pick: The St. John's Book Club

2011-08-24T08:53:00.000-07:00

Fourteen people have formed the St. John's Book Club! Most of us have never been in a book club before. The group is comprised of both men and woman of all ages and literary interests, so our picks are bound to be broad in genre.

Our first pick is The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls. This award winning memoir chronicles her rootless and dysfunctional childhood with honest perspective and genuine adoration for her parents. Watch the video below to see Jeanette set the scene and introduce her mother.

We will meet to discuss The Glass Castle on Sunday, September 25 at noon in the lounge. Bring a bag lunch and a copy of the book. Consider the ways her story speaks to family and faith, hope and life. We will also choose our next book, which will likely be a historical piece. Have your ideas ready!

What happened at the Churchwide Assembly?

2011-08-24T08:43:00.000-07:00

Dear leaders,

I came to the 2011 Churchwide Assembly of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) more grateful for the mission of this church than I have ever been. My sense of hope and my gratitude only increased throughout the week.

During our five days together, we were energized by lively discussion and debate, and nourished as we gathered around bread and wine in worship. I encourage you to read the Summary of Actions to learn about the work we did together on behalf of this church and to share this bulletin insert with the members of your congregation this weekend. For more detailed reports, you’ll find daily legislative updates posted at www.elca.org/assembly.

Thank you for your continued prayers and support of this church. I thank God for each of you.

In God’s grace,

Mark S. Hanson
Presiding Bishop
Evangelical Lutheran Church in America

A Message from the Presiding Bishop

2011-08-09T09:46:00.001-07:00

August 5, 2011

Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,

I greet you in the name of Jesus, our hope and salvation. This summer, in our diverse settings of ministry and times of rest, we have joined in prayer for those living in the midst of natural disasters, economic uncertainty and famine.

We also have been preparing for our twelfth Churchwide Assembly, August 15-20, 2011. The assembly provides a marvelous opportunity for us to affirm our identity as the ELCA and celebrate God’s mission that flows from it.

Whether or not you are able to join us for the assembly in Orlando, I invite you and your congregation to watch the business sessions and worship via live video streaming at www.elca.org/assembly. You will witness a church that shares a living, daring confidence in God’s grace and believes the good news that we are freed in Christ to serve our neighbors at home and around the globe.

Throughout the assembly it will be clear that as the ELCA:

We are a church whose unity is in Jesus, who gathers us around word and water, bread and wine. Each day at the assembly, our work will be grounded in our time spent together in worship and Bible study. I encourage you to join us.
We are a church called to discern together what the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ means for the world and our common life. As we consider the social statement on genetics, we stand together again at the intersection of faith and life, discerning how to live responsibly in a complex and rapidly changing world. In a culture plagued by incivility and willful misunderstanding, we believe that respectful dialogue not only is possible, but becomes our way of life.
We are a church called to roll up our sleeves and get to work in the world. Malaria is a leading cause of death in Africa, claiming the life of a child every 45 seconds. We know what it takes to stop this disease -- it’s preventable and treatable. A “yes” as a church to the challenge of the ELCA Malaria Campaign means that we will join with our global partners to ensure that a healthier future is possible for millions of people. You will also witness a church that remains engaged in Haiti and Japan, responding to the growing famine in Africa and rebuilding communities devastated by disasters at home. How good it is to recognize the awesome capacity we have when we work together.
We are a church committed to vibrant congregations, both newly planted and long established. A key recommendation of the Living Into the Future Together (LIFT) task force is a priority that every ELCA congregation will be a growing community proclaiming Christ and becoming engaged in the world.
We are a church recognized for our growing global, ecumenical and inter-religious relationships. A greeting at this assembly from Sayyid Syeed will be the first from a representative of the Islamic community. The presence of Bishop George Walker represents our growing relationship with the African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church. Martin Junge, general secretary of The Lutheran World Federation, will travel directly from famine-stricken Africa to bring a first-hand report of our shared work there.

Our identity as a church body is inseparable from our call to do God’s work in Christ's name for the life of the world. I hope you will join us at the 2011 Churchwide Assembly in August via live streaming at www.elca.org/assembly. Please pray that the Holy Spirit will anoint us with power as we witness to the good news of Jesus Christ.

For our partnership in the gospel, I thank God.

In God's grace,

The Rev. Mark S. Hanson
Presiding Bishop
Evangelical Lutheran Church in America

P.S. I encourage you to review the Pre-Assembly Report for details of all the agenda items we will cover during our week in Orlando. You will also find intercessory prayers to share with your congregation the Sundays before and after the assembly.

A Living Lutheran Creed

2011-08-03T10:40:00.000-07:00

I had this idea in June and ran it buy a group of ELCA Clergy on Facebook. More than 400 church leaders in the Twin Cities and beyond have agreed to rally their people to participate on September 10, 2001. What do you think, St. John's?

Lutherans often describe their congregations with words like 'friendly', 'welcoming' or 'hospitable'. Super and probably true, but I consider this to be part of our Lutheran problem. These are lovely but reactionary descriptions of God's people. They all require others to make the first move.

It's hard to initiate - to meet people outside, to tell our story, to be proud proclaimers when our (spiritual) heritage prefers stoicism and quiet humility. But maybe it would be easier and FUN to practice making that first move together.

What if a bunch of Lutherans - I mean a bunch - all make signs stating something we believe in and all stand on corners in our neighborhoods on the same day at the same time? What if church and community leaders got people together with markers and pieces of used cardboard to talk about what we stand for and what our faith means? And what if we all got outside our walls at the same time forming a really, really big creed?

And what if people bump into it? People will drive by, see us and have all kinds of reactions. They might notice that we were holding messages of abundance in spots that usually scream scarcity or that instead of asking for money, we're just saying something that's true. They might be annoyed. Or they might be curious. We might be awkward. Or we might be awakened.

So I'm throwing it out there. This experiment has just two goals:

1) To stretch us. Standing outside inviting other people to notice us because of our faith might feel scary or strange. We might draw a blank when figuring out what to write on our signs...and that might spark important conversations. But if a bunch of us try it together and then share our stories, it could be really really interesting. I'll make sure a blog or Facebook page is born so people can share photos and experiences - perhaps encouraging a second outing.

2) To many non-Lutherans, we are simply potluck people who listen to Garrison Keillor. Showing people driving/walking/biking by that we are more than a culture - we are people of faith - couldn't hurt.

So I propose a date for those who wish to join in. Saturday, September 10th (10am-noon CST). The next morning is Sunday and everyone will be figuring out what to do with the fact that 9/11 happened ten years ago. I can't think of a better way to be 'friendly' and 'welcoming' and 'hospitable' than by meeting people where they are the day before and reminding them that Church is a people and place where we hash this stuff out. Of course, any day will do, but this is where we'll start.

Any takers? I sure hope so. Pastor Mark and I will be in Fellowship Hall at 9am on September 10 with plenty of cardboard and markers. We hope you'll join us and make a sign! But even if it's just us...that's still something big.

- Pastor Meta Carlson

Vacation Bible School 2011

2011-07-27T09:56:00.000-07:00

Kids shared songs with parents and friends on Friday afternoon.

We spent five days with one text this year: the Parable of the Sower. Each day we made up skits, sound effects and actions to this story about a generous (or was he wasteful?) planter and all the different soils that received seed. By Thursday even the littlest ones could tell you the story and how nutty this guy was for scattering seed everywhere.

Junior and Senior High youth filled water balloons on Friday.

Thanks to the volunteers and youth who made this week a success. VBS happens each summer because teens and adults care about this tradition. VBS week is always filled with good energy, new friendships and excitement about songs and scripture!

Kids learned to compost and made starter kits to take home.

This year our crafts and service project focused on the environment. We learned to plant and compost. We talked to a gardener and a farmer about their work. We made fleece tie blankets and art kits for Camp Noah in North Minneapolis. We prayed for all the kids affected by the tornado this spring and made them cards. And, of course, water day brought us out into the courtyard for goofy games, shaving cream hairdos and fun with water balloons!

Save the Date: VBS 2012 is June 18-22!

Pentecost Whirlwind!

2011-06-18T11:25:00.000-07:00

Pentecost often falls at the end of May, but this year it was June 12! There was plenty to celebrate on Sunday and energy was high. Oscar and Charlie, twin one-year olds were baptized at the beginning of the service. Later, three teenagers affirmed their baptisms and confirmed their faith.

All seven of our confirmation students played a leadership role in worship, trying something they hadn't done before. Two served wine, two ushered, two prepared communion behind the scenes, one changed the paraments and another acolyted for the very first time. Older siblings played violin and read scripture. Prayer partners came up to lay hands on these eighth graders. It was busy and beautiful.

Between baptism and confirmation, a lot of promises were made by God and the whole assembly. And how appropriate for Pentecost - the day when wind rushes in through locked doors and draws people together despite fear and language barriers. It's the day God reminds us that we are not alone and redefines our community with the gift of the Holy Spirit.

Every time someone declared, "I will and I ask God to help and guide me" we became a little bit more tangled up together, bound by our promises to each other and God's promises that give us hope and purpose that connect Sunday to Monday.

And now it is the season after Pentecost. We begin the long weeks of green and growth and stories that ponder, "Now what? No that Jesus has been raised and the Holy Spirit is among us...now what?" Welcome to the story without end - the story so big and long, we get to be part of it, too.

Chi Rho: Getting Ready for Summer!

2011-06-16T11:20:00.000-07:00

St. John's was way ahead of the curve in the mid-1960s. We were one of the first racially integrated congregations in Minneapolis. Years before small group ministry took off, the pastor recognized a need for this kind of fellowship and by 1967, over 200 members (more than 10% of the total membership) were rooted in small groups.

It wasn't long before a new vision was born. Leaders at St. John's started looking for land on which to build a retreat center - a place these groups could go to connect with God, nature and each other. The site chosen was (and is!) a beautiful peninsula on Lake Sylvia in Annandale, MN. Since then, the camp has served a variety of roles for St. John's and the community we serve.

On Memorial Day weekend, a few of our members spent Saturday sprucing the place up for summer. Every year there are a few projects to take on and Spring Clean Up has become a long standing tradition. Here are some photos from the event.

To learn more about Chi Rho, visit the website.

Ascension: We are not abandoned.

2011-06-07T08:57:00.000-07:00

Here is an excerpt from Pastor Mark's sermon on Sunday. The Easter season ends with the Ascension and the disciples waiting for the Holy Spirit to come among them on Pentecost. When Pastor Mark started preaching about the image on our chancel window, all eyes in the sanctuary looked up. We see it every Sunday, but it's good to be reminded about these pieces of art - that each scene was carefully chosen once upon a time.

What I understand from these ascension passages is this: Jesus is gone, but that does not mean we are abandoned or forgotten. We have God’s blessing – we have God’s Holy Spirit – calling and gathering us together, sanctifying our witness, and connecting us with what has been accomplished with what has yet to be done. Always have. Always will.
Jesus’ ascension was a popular image in church art in the 19^th and early 20^th centuries, particularly in our part of the country. Maybe you have been in an older church building, either here in the city or out in the country, where there is a dominant painting or depiction in stained glass above the altar. In many places it is a painting or depiction in stained glass of Christ rising into the clouds. You see it yourselves every Sunday here at St. John’s. Christ’s ascension is the centerpiece and focal point of the chancel window. Now, as far as the paintings go, it could be that a few circuit-riding church painters in Minnesota and the Dakotas had an abundance of pastel colored oils, and did a brisk business in immigrant congregations in the upper Midwest. Or maybe the ascension was popular because clouds are easy to paint.
But maybe something else inspired these artists. People in these newly formed immigrant communities were at least half a world away from everything they had ever known. They faced as much uncertainty as Christ’s disciples on the day of his ascension. To these faithful people in their anxious new surroundings Jesus promised the power of the Holy Spirit. And with this power came the commission: “You will be my witnesses…to the ends of the earth.” I am sure places like Benson, and Willmar, Fairmont and Lindstrom, St. Cloud and Minneapolis and St. Paul probably did feel like the “ends of the earth” to them. And so I think, when they went to church every Sunday, that image of Christ ascending above the altar lifted their eyes and their spirits above the strangeness of their new life. I think that image of the ascension challenged them to take seriously the power of the Holy Spirit in their lives. Challenged by the unknown at just about every turn, plunged into demanding discipleship, these immigrant communities and congregations would find their strength in prayer, and their direction from the Spirit. As we do today.
“You will be my witnesses….” In leaving Jesus commanded that we go and tell this story, and he gave us the blessing – the power – for telling it. We have been given everything we need to be God’s faithful people: worshiping together, witnessing for Christ in our words and actions, serving people, and striving for justice and peace. We have everything we need to be his witnesses “to the ends of the earth.” Amen.

Minneapolis is Working Together

2011-06-01T08:57:00.000-07:00

North Minneapolis Tornado: Ways To Help

Many of you have been calling St. John's and the synod to find out ways to help those affected by the tornado in north Minneapolis. The churches in north Minneapolis and they have identified several ways that you can help:

Saturday, June 4: Saturday, June 4 will be the official North Side Volunteer Clean-Up Day in north Minneapolis. The announcement was made at an event Friday, May 27 where Mayor R.T. Rybak, Council President Barb Johnson, Council Members Don Samuels and Diane Hofstede, and Senator Al Franken thanked many of the agencies and volunteers who have already given their time to help the residents and businesses of north Minneapolis following the May 22 tornado.

Since the tornado, thousands of people from Minneapolis and beyond have asked how they can volunteer on the North Side to help residents clean up their properties and get folks back on their feet to make it through this difficult time. Urban Homeworks, a local housing organization, has helped coordinate the initial debris cleanup volunteer efforts on behalf of the City of Minneapolis. Since Sunday, 3,000 volunteers have conducted initial debris assessments and cleanup, and professionals are now handling the removal of heavier debris in the affected area. Due to this huge response, additional volunteers are not needed for debris cleanup until Saturday, June 4.

The City of Minneapolis is hoping to mobilize 2,000 volunteers to help in light debris cleanup in the affected area. Those who would like to volunteer on Saturday, June 4 must call 311 (612-673-3000) to register. Only people who have registered will be able to take part in the effort that day.

Cleaning Supplies: Much of the initial clean-up of removing trees and debris has been completed and people now need supplies to clean up inside their homes: Mops, buckets, sponges, cleaners. There is also a continuing need for non-perishable foods and NEW socks and underwear. Donations can be dropped off at the Neighborhood HUB at Christ English Lutheran church, on the corner of Lowry and Oliver between 9:00 a.m. and noon on Monday, or 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Tuesday - Friday next week.

Monetary Donations: You've already received information on the need for monetary donations to help cover the costs of basics like bus passes, gas cards, and grocery store cards. Checks can be sent to the Minneapolis Area Synod office at 122 West Franklin Ave., Suite 600, Minneapolis, MN 55404. Or individuals can go to our website at: www.mpls-synod.org and click on the "Donate Now" button on the right side.

Thank you for your continuing support and prayers as we work together to help the people of north Minneapolis rebuild.

Breaking Bread Together

2011-05-25T12:49:00.000-07:00

The sign serves as an invitation and reminder all week long.

In January 2009, we tried something new. After talking with leaders of other congregations in our city about their community meals - when they had them, how many they fed, what they served and who participated as leaders - Pastor Mark shared his findings with the Community & Neighborhood Committee and Church Council. Together, we agreed that the 4th Saturday of each month would be a good home for this experiment. A nearby congregation opens its doors as a food shelf this same morning each month and people could come by for lunch after they filled a grocery bag.

Our very first meal was a little lonely. Just two people came. The next month we had six people - a 300% increase in attendance! These days we welcome 30-60 people each month for a nutritious and delicious lunch made by our cook Sabrina and served by volunteers from the congregation. Every month brings regulars back together and a few new faces to welcome.

While this holiday weekend means getting out of town for so many, we will still have hungry people gathering in fellowship hall looking for food and conversation. This curious experiment has become a beloved tradition at St. John's, drawing together different volunteers every month to make sure people in our neighborhood are get a healthy meal and don't have to eat alone. Here's what some of our volunteers have to say about the community meal:

I'm not a very good cook, but I love serving at the community meal because Sabrina is so good at giving us tasks and making us feel useful. We arrive an hour early and work together washing lettuce, chopping vegetables and stirring broth until, suddenly, there is enough to feed a whole crowd!

Serving at the community meal helped me learn my way around the church kitchen. I know where everything goes now!

I like showing up and spending time with other members I might not otherwise know. I make new friends I look forward to seeing on Sunday mornings and around the neighborhood.

Each monthly meal requires help from 6-8 volunteers from 11am - 2pm. It's fun. It's easy. You can sign up to volunteer on the bulletin board near Fellowship Hall or by calling the church office.

The "Stuff" Drive

2011-05-05T12:17:00.000-07:00

It turns out St. John's is actually run by 4th graders. Sometimes they come to committee meetings with their parents and have the best ideas of all. Each summer they bring friends to Vacation Bible School and can articulate quite clearly why they love this church. They formed a Kids' Council that comes up with all kinds of unique and wise ideas for ministry. They walk around like they own the place...and we wouldn't have it any other way.

So it's no surprise they've created a new and growing tradition. Two of our lovely parents have channeled some of this energy into something called "Kids' Night". They get together on the fourth Wednesday of each month for food, fellowship and service. They put together an IKEA couch that now defines their space in the Sunday school area. Since their kick-off event in December, they've played board games, learned about the history of Lent and declared a "Stuff Drive" that will benefit People Serving People.

These goofballs want your cleaning supplies and household goods. They are being collected to help families as they transition into stable housing. So the next time you go grocery shopping or make a Target run, throw a few items in the cart for the "Stuff Drive". Your participation supports families in need and our spunky 4th graders who think it's fun to make a difference.

Christ is risen!

2011-04-26T10:07:00.000-07:00

Celebrating the resurrection with a sugar rush!

Easter morning at St. John's began with a pancake breakfast that benefits Camp Chi Rho. The griddles were going and people wandered into fellowship hall for a delicious breakfast. Slowly the room became more boisterous as families appeared, friends connected and little kids joined forces in a chorus of squeals and giggles.

Soon young adults slipped out to hide eggs in the courtyard. You could see them tossing eggs high into the pine tree and sneaking behind bushes trying to challenge the older kids. At 9:30am the doors opened and the smallest children poured out onto the lawn to enjoy their head start, scooping up all the eggs in plain sight with the help of parents and prayer partners.

The St. John's Brass welcomed us to worship at 10:00am with rich, triumphant song. While some in our community celebrated Easter out of town with friends and family, others brought along enough loved ones to fill a whole pew! Visitors pointed at the stained glass windows in awe and little girls twirled in their new dresses.

And then worship began. We prayed and sang and listened and proclaimed, Christ is risen! And we remembered that Easter morning is nothing without the Three Days - that resurrection is true only because of the supper, the garden, the trial and the cross. And then we prayed and sang and listened and proclaimed some more. What beautiful news. What good cause for rejoicing!

Good Friday. A Choir Preaches.

2011-04-20T09:15:00.000-07:00

Holy Week is here. On Sunday we celebrated Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem. People shouted praises as he rode by, even though he looked nothing like a king. We waved palm fronds and celebrated the Messiah all morning…but if we skip straight to Easter Sunday, we miss most of the story.

It’s tempting to race towards the glory and light of resurrection, but in doing so we miss the radical sacrifice that makes Easter morning so beautiful. The Three Days invite us to slow down and hear the quiet conversations, the betrayal, the suffering and death. It is the hard stuff, but it is also the stuff that takes us deeper into God’s love than a simple magic trick.

Music will be our preacher on Good Friday. We are privileged to have many familiar voices with us for the St. John Passion by J.S. Bach. Members of our congregation’s choir and the St. John’s Oratorio Chorus are coming together for this special music. St. John’s has a long tradition of welcoming musicians from our greater faith community to lead in worship. Many don’t have a congregation of their own, but enjoy singing at St. John’s on festival Sundays and consider our congregation a friendly and familiar place. You might also recognize some of our instrumentalists for Good Friday: Taichi and Robin Chen, Nathan Davis and Melissa Bergstrom.

Come hear the good news proclaimed by the aria. The soloist asks the great question for all of us, “Was this for me, for all humanity?” Come see the death that changed death forever. Come worship together and be reminded of the journey that leads to the cross and only then to the empty tomb.

Bass Aria: My dearest Saviour, let me ask you,
as you are nailed to the cross,
and have yourself said: It is accomplished.
Am I released from death?
Can I, gain the heavenly kingdom,
through your suffering and death?
Is it that the world is redeemed?
You cannot speak for agony,
but incline your head
to give a speechless “Yes!”

Chorale: Jesus, you were dead, and now live forever.
Bring me, in death’s extremity,
nowhere but to you who have paid the debt I owe
my true and faithful master.
Give me only what you have won,
for how could there be anything more to wish for?

Chorus: Rest here in peace, Redeemer blest and holy,
henceforth no more will I bewail Thee,
rest here in peace, and lead Thou me to peace;
the grave will not forever close me in,
but when God my Redeemer calls, then haste I forth,
then haste I glorified the God of Heaven to meet.

Chorale: Lord, let at last thine angels come,

To Abr’hams bosom bear me home,

That I may die unfearing;

And in its narrow chamber keep

My body safe in peaceful sleep

Until thy reappearing.

And then from death awaken me,

That these mine eyes with joy may see

O Son of God, thy glorious face,

My savior and my fount of grace.

Lord Jesus Christ,

My prayer attend, my prayer attend,

And I will praise thee without end!

We worship on Good Friday at 7:00pm.

Every Single Time.

2011-04-19T10:52:00.000-07:00

If you join us for worship this Maundy Thursday, you will notice four people more excited about Holy Communion than anyone else. These little ones are celebrating their first participation in the supper and they couldn't be more excited.

Together with their parents, they met with Pastor Mark and Pastor Meta on Sunday after worship. We talked about things that help us remember - photographs, heirlooms, Christmas ornaments and gifts from people who have since passed away. We agreed that it's much easier to remember something or someone when we have a memento to hold in our hands. Holding something makes it seem so much more real.

Thank goodness for bread, wine and the promise Jesus made at the last supper. Thank goodness for his body and blood and his presence when we gather. Thank goodness for the way he gets inside of us, tangled up in/around/under the bread and wine so we couldn't miss him even if we tried.

They were eager to try the bread and wine - they have watched others taste and eat for so long! And then one of them asked a really important question. "So when we take it on Thursday, does that mean we get to take it every single time forever?"

Yes! That's exactly what it means. The church and the supper are not out to tease or trick you. They will not take the gift away or suddenly make you earn it. It's yours forever, buddy. Every single time.

We worship Maundy Thursday at 7:00pm.

Behind the Scenes

2011-03-29T19:50:00.000-07:00

St. John's young adults make organizing the sacristy look fun

Small congregations know that worship and being church require a lot of leadership behind the scenes. We count on members to offer their time by changing light bulbs, filling the children's worship bags, preparing communion, doing dishes and so much more. St. John's is one of those places.

On a busy Sunday morning it seems like every worship participant is also scurrying around before or after the service to help in a particular way. Some are setting out tables for a craft activity or teaching Sunday school. Others are shoveling snow from last night's storm or brewing coffee.

These simple acts add up to our life together on Sundays, causing community and showing care for our worship space. Little things like cleaning brass and replacing candles are acts of worship made more sacred because so many are involved and giving freely of themselves. Today we celebrate all the ways we worship together - before, during and after the service - and give thanks for the community these gifts of time create.

Casserole Club - On Location

2011-03-15T19:33:00.000-07:00

Laura helps herself to some tater tot hotdish.

The Casserole Club began two years ago without any specific goals or agendas. They hoped it would bring together young adults, from St. John's and beyond, for good home cookin' and conversations about scripture. Facebook provided a way for each monthly theme and event to be communicated and soon the group had faithful regulars showing up and claiming this club as their own.

The study topic changes from month to month giving participants the freedom to come and go as their schedules allow. Every gathering is a different group - some who come often and some who are brand new, some who bring Bibles and some who need help finding Genesis. They start with a $3 dinner and time for introductions and catching up. In two years, this group has become an impressive crew of casserole critics who are eager to try new recipes and discuss the tasty menu.

After dinner they get comfortable for scripture and conversation. The topic might have something to do with the liturgical season, a sacrament, a biblical theme or a question that came about the last time they met.

This winter and spring the group has decided to go on location, hosting the monthly events in their homes and cooking for each other. The topics are lay lead February, March and April and they are using the Facebook group "The Casserole Club" to communicate dates, topics and locations.

It's exciting to see this group grow in relationship with each other and as a flexible, organic ministry of St. John's. Find out more about the Casserole Club by visiting their Facebook page and join them for an event. They'd love to see you there!

Colors and Seasons

2011-03-01T10:49:00.000-08:00

If you grew up in a mainline or traditional congregation, you have seen many paraments and colors decorating the worship space and setting the tone for each season of the church year. They engage our senses and help tell the story.

Summer and certain seasons of "ordinary time" are celebrated with green, a sign of growth and life. These seasons are often filled with stories from Jesus' ministry - teachings, healings and journeys from place to place - that help us grow in faith. Christmas, Easter and other festivals are draped in white to symbolize purity, holiness and new life.

We are blessed to have a professional weaver at St. John's. Marj has created uniquely beautiful textiles for all kinds of worship spaces and has recently created two sets of paraments for our sanctuary. We are so proud of the work she does and curious about her inspiration for each piece. The next time you are in the sanctuary, come visit these pieces. Take a close look, touch them and see what you notice about the colors and seasons.

When Marj was asked to share about her inspiration for these paraments, she hesitated. Marj feels it is important to let those who see them have room for their own interpretations. Here she shares some pictures and words about the green paraments, but Marj still encourages you to let your own imagination engage these works of art.

Green is the color of growth and the lessons of these seasons often refer to growth in faith. The pattern of squares could make one think of a community coming together - they are not all the same, but in different colors and shapes and arrangements. The altar parament for Pentecost could suggest growing plants - wheat and grapes or other plants - a time to grow in spirit and a reminder of the sacrament of the Eucharist.

The pulpit and lectern paraments have blue lines to remind us of the Sacrament of Baptism -our initial coming into the Christian community.

The altar parament for Epiphany could suggest the teaching of Christ (the cross) moving out through communities of people. There are twelve larger squares, but one has fallen away from the cross.

Stay tuned for more photos and words from Marj as Easter approaches. We will take a look at the white paraments she created for the seasons of Christmas and Easter.

Trying Something New

2011-02-15T10:34:00.000-08:00

Members were invited to "try something new" in 2011 when filling out their pledge cards last fall. Lots of ideas were suggested, reminding folks of all the ways we can be involved and share our gifts with this community. More than two dozen households replied, pledging to participate in an area of ministry that was new to them this year.

Some people offered their time during the day and have started helping our parish coordinator with mailings in the office. What once fell to a single volunteer is now shared by six people who enjoy socializing while they fold and sort. Others vowed to learn more about our outreach ministries, lead in worship or volunteer during Vacation Bible School this summer.

It was exciting to see many families get creative with their time, trusting that they could explore something new without having to know much about it or commit long term.

Several families pledged to serve at our free community meal sometime this year. This outreach is relatively new to St. John's and is a great way to meet our neighbors and be involved on a casual basis. For two years now, St. John's has been hosting a free community meal on the 4th Saturday of each month. With our childcare cook providing leadership and friendly direction, helping is fun and easy.

Pastor Mark and members of the Community & Neighborhood Committee

The community meal draws volunteers from all over the congregation and brings together 6-8 different helpers each month. It's a great way for members of different ages and interests to meet and spend time together. Helping just once means becoming more familiar with our faith community and our neighbors - a great reason to "try something new"!

Winter Youth Retreat

2011-01-30T10:00:00.000-08:00

Team Broomball - February 2010

Half of our confirmation coursework each year is taught during the youth retreat at Camp Chi Rho. We take a weekend in January or February for games, broomball, snow, good food and learning. Our youth love this retreat because it's an opportunity for them to spend lots of quality time together. Most of them attend different schools and rarely see each other during the week. Retreats take us away from homework, sports and parents for hours of bonding time and lots of goofing around. Even though several of our high schoolers have already confirmed their faith, they continue to join us for this retreat and the traditions we've created together.

This year we grew in size by including two other congregations. Youth spent plenty of time with peers from their own congregations, but they were also divided into "houses" that earned points and competed against each other for the "house cup" all weekend. We learned about the Lord's Prayer and scored points during the quiz bowl, outdoor games and meals together.

Our youth were very flexible about sharing familiar space and making new memories. While we didn't play some of the favorite games we have in past years and there were a lot of new faces, all of our youth were great hosts and open to new ideas. They look forward to spending more time with these other youth groups and the new friends they've made. The next time you see one of these smiling faces, ask them about the retreat - what they learned, who they met and why they can't wait to go back next year.

New, Hospitable Space

2010-12-26T12:01:00.000-08:00

Almost one year ago we launched the "All Are Welcome" Capital Appeal at St. John's. Together, we hoped to raise funds to remodel the narthex area and update part of our kitchen. Both of these spaces are places of welcome.

The narthex is the first thing most visitors see when they come to worship. We want them to sense welcome when they pull open those heavy wooden doors and dare to wander inside. The kitchen is used all week long to feed little ones who attend childcare and preschool here. It also helps prepare the free community meal we offer monthly and lots of fellowship events for the St. John's community.

It has been exciting to see the pledges turn to actual funds received. Both projects were finished this winter and we're so pleased with how they turned out. Come and see for yourself!

Construction in the narthex during November

We celebrated in the new space during fellowship hour on December 26

The kitchen upgrade and new dishwasher

Making an Investment

2010-12-18T11:13:00.000-08:00

Fewer and fewer households are making pledged giving statements to their churches across America. Most give as they're able, give as they remember or give as they attend worship services. There is something about making a financial commitment in advance that does not seem to gel with the modern financial conversation.

But this downward trend is not true at St. John's! For the last few years, the Stewardship Team has been working hard to help members of this community realize how much their gifts matter. We have been encouraging people to pledge regardless of their giving amount because every thoughtful gift is worth declaring in advance. Having the conversation with other members of your household, considering the ways you've been blessed and filling out a pledge card is a lot like voting - you're making a committed investment on the upcoming year.

Our number of pledging households and total dollars pledged are steadily increasing!

Some people give weekly, monthly or yearly. Some people like to place the envelope in the offering plate as an act of worship. Others have discovered the Simply Giving Program available through Thrivent, which makes consistent giving easy through an automated service. That means when you miss worship because of a blizzard, an ice storm or a vacation, your gift still makes it to St. John's and comes together with the generosity of others.

Today we rejoice that so many in our community have pledged with generous hearts and are coming together in support of our mission and ministry for 2011. Alleluia!

A Little Snow + A Big Story

2010-12-15T10:45:00.000-08:00

Sunday morning was the third Sunday in Advent and would have been a terribly depressing turnout if it hadn't been for Andrew's baptism and the Children's Christmas Program.

This weekend had everyone wearing their finest snow pants and shoveling until their backs throbbed. Neighbors chatted with each other on every block, trying to figure out how to get the guy with the Bobcat or the snow blower to share generously with others buried in white.

It probably wasn't safe for some to attend worship on Sunday. The roads were dangerous and many stayed inside where a fall was far less likely. But those who came experienced all the excitement a Minnesota Advent has to offer. Andrew was welcomed into the body of Christ by his new family at St. John's and the whole Christian church. We celebrated his good news as our own. After worship, shepherds had washable marker beards and angels grew wings. We huddled with coffee and friends in the Fellowship Hall while they told us the story and we sang along.

Thanks to all the moms and dads who shoveled their little actors out of hibernation so they could proclaim Christ's birth. And thanks to all who made promises to Andrew, wrapping him up in the day and the story as well.

Making New Music

2010-11-21T14:09:00.000-08:00

Small congregations have to keep their eyes and ears open. Most of our program ministry is led and energized by members of the congregation, so we have to be honest with ourselves about what's working and what isn't. It's easy for small groups or individuals to burn out if they start carrying a heavy load all by themselves and it doesn't gain momentum.

This is not news to most of us, but we often forget the flip side of that coin. In a small congregation, it only takes a few people to get a ministry off the ground and growing. Each idea begins with a small group of people saying YES and working together to try something new. And that's pretty exciting.

We haven't had a hand bell choir for several years, but two people wanted to resurrect the tradition. This time, participants are of every age and height. Some parents are ringing with their children. Young adults are helping kids read music and turn pages. Together, they are making something beautiful to share with the rest of the congregation.