501 NW 16th Street, Grand Rapids, Minnesota 55744 (218) 326-8508 www.saintand.org April 2016

FROM PASTOR DAVE

It’s a few days after Easter Sunday as I write this. It’s the high point of celebration for Christians. “Jesus is risen! He is risen indeed!” The sanctuary was decorated beautifully. The music was wonderful with organ, bells, brass, clarinet, flute, timpani, hand bells and choir. Tables got set up, breakfast was prepared and served. So much time and effort was expended by so many people to make Easter happen. Thank you!

Many of you had family gatherings as well. Moms and dads, grandmas and grandpas, aunts and uncles, sisters, brothers, cousins, grandchildren. Feeding that many and housing them was both fun and frenetic at the same time. Some of you traveled to be with family and friends. Holidays are great!

And then it was over. Decorations come down. Family and friends and guests go home. There’s less activity and hustle and bustle in the house. Extra chairs around the dinner tables are put away. The good china is carefully washed and dried by hand and then put back in the buffet with cardboard protectors between each piece, until the next big event. It’s quiet. Almost too quiet. While it’s nice to catch our breath again, the days after a big event like a holiday can be somewhat of a letdown. Because it’s over.

Or is it?

Unlike some churches, those (like St. Andrew’s) which follow the liturgical church year, celebrate not only Easter Sunday, but we celebrate the Easter season. It’s not only a day that comes and then goes, after which we get back to normal. We intentionally linger longer at the empty tomb so that we might experience the risen Christ again and again. We don’t rush away from resurrection experiences, and on to our next focus or sermon series. We linger during this season.

The Gospel according to John tells the story of Easter Sunday a little differently than the story we read from Luke. According to Luke, Mary and the other women encounter two men in dazzling clothes, who tell them that Jesus is not dead but risen. Remembering that Jesus had actually told them that He would rise from the dead, they go and tell the others. In John’s story, Mary lingers longer at the tomb. And because she does, not only does she hear about Jesus, she encounters the risen Jesus. She lingers longer and she hears Jesus call her by name. She lingers longer and is commissioned by Jesus himself to be a teller of the Good News.

My encouragement is that we, too, linger longer and not rush off, so that we, too, can experience our risen Lord calling us by name, and commissioning us to tell the Good News. So that our lives can be radically changed and renewed and reoriented by having encountered the living Jesus. As a congregation, we will be lingering longer in the light of the resurrection for the seven week long season of Easter. Perhaps, as individuals, we can linger longer by committing to being part of worship at St. Andrew’s every week we are in town this Easter Season. Perhaps, our lingering happens as we pray the Lord’s Prayer with deeper understanding having focused on it during Lent and having reached the climax of it with the Doxology (praise) on Easter Sunday. Maybe the lingering happens each morning when you begin the day and/or end the day in a quiet time of prayer or devotional reading.

Easter – it’s only just begun. Linger longer.

Peace, Pastor Dave 2

PASTOR MEGAN’S MUSINGS...

He is Risen, He is Risen in Indeed! Alleluia!!!! Every Easter, we proclaim this wonderful news…but then once Sunday morning is done, we go back to our day to day lives, and aside from those strands of Easter grass that you can never seem to fully clean up, we see few reminders of the joy of Easter Sunday once it has passed. Easter, however, is not a single Sunday celebration! Easter is actually a 50 day long season meant to inspire us, renew us, and energize us as we go forward and share the good news that Jesus Christ is Risen Amen! It is a season when we are reminded once more that we are Resurrection or Easter People, and that means something in our lives both inside of and outside of the church. This month, I would like to explore what it means to be Resurrection People, and the impact it has on our lives and world. I invite you to reflect and have conversation about this as well So what does it mean to be a Resurrection or Easter People? Well, for me it means several things. It means we are people of enduring hope… in a world filled with violence, prejudice, terror, hatred, politics, inequality, poverty, racism and fear, we are people of steadfast hope. We proclaim that there is light in the darkness, love that over comes hatred, and even when confronted with the reality of death we proclaim that there is new life. We literally believe that the tomb is empty and that when we encounter hardship and trial, that God is right there in the thick of it with us, and God will bring us to peace and life. Our reality is that the world is worth saving and God has and is saving it… and we embrace the reality of the empty tomb… knowing that God is not there; He is free and loose in our world and we have Hope!

It means we are people of radical healing. We see God at work in our lives and in our world, and that when we are faced with the heartbreak and brokenness that enters into all lives, we believe that healing is possible. That is the whole point of Easter… that Jesus died and rose again so that we would be reconciled or reunited with God. We are forgiven people, freed from our guilt and shame and encouraged to forgive others. We are people who seek to let go of old hurts, to rebuild bonds of friendship, respect and trust, and work towards justice and peace in all corners of God’s creation. As Easter People, we trust God and follow Him into places of deep pain and hurt, to confront the scars of racism, intolerance, greed, addiction, sickness, war and death, and we know that God is there working in us and through us offering true healing in our lives and in our world.

It means we are people of abundant love. The glass is not half empty for us… in fact, our cups runneth over! Resurrection People see the abundance of God’s love and blessings in our lives and are filled with it. We see how God provides for our needs and let go of our instinct to hoard and accumulate. We try to love the world and everyone in it as God loves us, freely without limit and without asking for anything in return.

It means we are people of eternal life. The story doesn’t end for us… We know the truth that there is nothing that is more powerful than God, and we dare to trust in that promise and let it guide our lives. It means, we hold on to the promise that God will love us even when we fail, and continue to love us and guide us, and that God will never give up on us or abandon us. God promises us eternity, and that’s what we get.

Being Easter People is hard. In fact, it’s impossible to do at all without God’s love and help. But, that’s the truly Good News! God does love and help us… and as we enter into the season of Easter, I invite you to live as Resurrection People. To believe in the promise of hope, experience the power of forgiveness, see the abundance of God’s love for you, and trust that God will never give up on you or the world… because He is Risen… He is Risen Indeed! 3

Get a Piece of the Pie!

Chili Lunch and Pie & Service Auction

Sunday - April 24, 2016 following the 10:30 am worship service

The success of our auction depends, as always, on the creativity and generosity of all who contribute pies, products and services to be auctioned. Bidding sheets are available in the Fellowship Hall to list your items to be auctioned and to begin the bidding. A variety of pies and services will spark a lively auction, so think about what you do best and put it on the auction block. Think about what you can donate and keep your eyes peeled for items you would like to bid on! Proceeds will be used for the Sight and Sound System upgrade.

Chili and hot dogs will be served — free-will offering for lunch. Activities will be available for children attending. Please plan to join us for a fun event and bring your friends!

Voyageurs Lutheran Ministry… In God’s Great Northwoods! Summer is coming and we want to see you at Camp Hiawatha and Camp Vermilion! VLM ministry grows and continues each year. Sign up now and get the best deal on your week at camp. Invite a friend and register today for the best part of your summer vacation—a week of learning, meeting new friends, swimming, playing, singing around the campfire, and praising God. Early Bird Deadline: register by April 1, 2016 for extra discounts. Information on how to register, camp fees, and program details can be found on the website www.VLMcamps.org or call 800-331-5148. St. Andrew’s WELCA provides camperships of $75 for full-week, $50 for 3-day camp and $25 for 1-day camp for St. Andrew’s members attending either Camp Hiawatha or Camp Vermilion.

The "Men's Breakfast" is a group of men who The members of the PRAYER CHAIN are meet every Wednesday morning at 7:00 am at the ready to offer their confidential help and Forest Lake Restaurant. Each week, they discuss support through prayer. Please call Jean the scripture for the next Sunday's worship service. Gardner 999-9890 or Gail Olijnek at 326-2431 with your prayer requests. It's a nice way to start the day. All men are welcome to attend.

Deadline for May Newsletter ST. ANDREW'S MISSION is to: All news articles and information need to be in the Welcome all people church office by April 20 to have it included in the Celebrate God's presence May newsletter. The newsletter will be assembled Grow in God's grace for mailing Tuesday, April 26 at 10:00 am. Please Reach out with God's love note date and time. Please come and help if you can.

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President’s Report

Thanks for the big turnout for the Celebration Congregational Dinner. Jean Gardner did a great job organizing this event and kudos to the past and present Council who helped put this event on. We have much to celebrate at St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church. The video that Pastor Megan Crouch put together for this event was awesome!

Spring is upon us and we have a number of activities and events coming up. One of them is the: Pie & Service Auction on April 24 following Church The signup sheets are already posted on the wall in the Fellowship Hall for you to enter donations that can be auctioned off. The proceeds will be for the “Sight & Sound System” this year. We need you involved in two ways: 1) Donate items of service, handiwork, crafts, art, events, etc. 2) Attend the chili lunch followed by the Pie & Service Auction. I am hoping the Abbott & Costello team of Martinetto & Olson will be the auctioneers again.

Spring time means cleanup at my house. I am sure it does for you as well. Well, the Church grounds and also the VLM camps are no exception to spring cleanup. There are announcements and bulletins showing when and where you can help take care of our facilities. We need you to chip in.

There is so much going on in our calendar. I suggest you take time to visit the church website at and click on the calendar image to open the monthly calendar. www.saintand.org

Respectfully submitted by Barry Olson

Read It - Read It - Read All About It - A New Bible Study to begin April 25 The Monday Night Bible Study Group, led by Jack Rajala, will be starting a new series titled “New Testament Characters”. The series will begin Monday, April 25 at 6:00 pm. The study is Bible Based and will meet on the second and fourth Monday of each month in the Fireside Room. Please join us. “They were ordinary people. Some were never even mentioned by name. Yet, they were all touched by Jesus. In this study guide, Carolyn Nystrom introduces you to the fascinating men and women of the New Testament. As you enter into their stories, you'll discover how you too can be touched by the Savior. This revised Life Guide Bible Study features additional questions for starting group discussions and for meeting God in personal reflection, together with expanded leader's notes and a ‘Now or Later’ section in each study.”  A throwaway woman  A blind beggar  A prison guard  A doubting disciple  An elderly couple The Lessons are: 1 Anna & Simeon Luke 2:21-40 2 A Throwaway Woman John 8: 1-11 3 A Blind Beggar John 9 4 Mary Magdalene Luke 8: 1-3; Mark 15:37-47; John 20:1-18 5 Thomas John 14:1-7; 20:19-31 6 Simon Acts 8:9-25 7 A Jailer Acts 16:6-40 8 Priscilla & Aquila Acts 18; Romans 16:3-5 9 Governor Felix Acts 25 10 Philemon Philemon 5 SOUND AND SIGHT SYSTEM UPDATE

Two typical responses to our plans for a new sound and sight system are “much needed” and “ambitious.”

Our plans are much needed. We need a sound system that works reliably, and which is flexible enough to support worship and other events in the sanctuary and fellowship hall. This includes being able to make quality recordings, and to play CD’s and MP3s. This includes an up-to-date hearing assistance system, and a separate but integrated system to support events/classes/forums in the fellowship hall. Clear sounding microphones and speakers are essential to it all.

We need a “sight system” that allows us to have a better presence online and on local TV, as well as gives us the ability to use images in worship, to project words, to make videos of events like funerals for grieving families, or of weddings for couples. People’s expectations of how a church uses technology have changed over the decades and quality sound and sight are a given.

Our plans are ambitious. The total cost will be about $100,000. To date, we have $32,754.85 in the fund for Sight and Sound. Thank you to those who have contributed! In addition to an ambitious financial goal, our timeline is ambitious as well. We hope to install the system in July of this year. Ambitious? Yes! But can it be done? Yes! It can be done as each person and family of St. Andrew’s makes plans to make a special contribution – over and above our normal giving to the church.

As was mentioned in the letter we sent to the congregation in February, one way for many of us to support this is by donating money we receive if we get a tax refund. It would only take about 70 families each donating $1,000 to achieve our ambitious goal. For other families/couples, it may mean more sacrificial giving. Instead of a $3,000 vacation abroad, perhaps this year a domestic trip for half the cost would allow you to give $1,500. Instead of buying a $45,000 vehicle you’ve been thinking about, maybe making the sacrificial decision to get a vehicle for only $35,000 would allow you to make a significant contribution. Maybe this year is the time to sell that “extra” car that’s just been sitting in the driveway. Giving your Required Minimum Distribution to the church from an IRA could go a long way. Business assets? Family Foundations? Have you recently been a beneficiary of a life insurance policy payout? (This is a very specific situation, but not unheard of. One local church had one person donate $80,000 for a sound system from a life insurance policy after his wife died.) What about accumulated cash value of life insurance? Some people have matured savings bonds in a safety deposit box or cookie jar. These are just some ideas, and not every one of them is plausible for everyone.

We can do this! If necessary, however, we could do the project in two phases. Phase One, with a July install date, could be just the Sound system. It would include: Control booth Digital Mixer (the “board”) Audio processor and amplifiers Main speakers and monitor speakers and subwoofer Wireless microphones with transmitters and receivers Suspended microphones in front of balcony to record choir and organ Hearing assistance system CD player and recorder Fellowship Hall sound Labor to Stewart Enterprises All the cabling and connectors, etc. Electrical work for control booth

Phase One would cost about $47,000 to Stewart Enterprises PLUS the cost of whatever electrical work needs to be done to get appropriate power to the control booth.

If done in phases, phase two would be the “Sight” portion and would include: 2 LCD projectors with long throw lenses Video monitor mounted on balcony (for worship leaders to see from up front) Video monitors in Fellowship Hall (north and south overflow) and Nursery Video switcher and components (in booth) Video production interface (in booth) 2 video cameras Camera controller in booth 2 custom computers for video projection and recording (in booth)

Phase two would cost about $45,000 to Stewart Enterprises PLUS whatever costs there may be associated with the congregation removing the “sound grates” from the front walls, installing drywall and painting the walls.

Doing this project in phases may result in slightly higher costs as it would include two separate installation items for Steward Enterprises.

We can do this much needed and ambitious project! It will take all of us rallying together in our fund raising efforts. Thank you for your participation and generosity.

Sincerely,

Sight and Sound Fundraising Task Force

Audrey Moen, Council and Stewardship Chair Brad Petersen, Finance Committee Barry Olson, Council President Myrna Peterson, Sight and Sound Task Force Scott Shrimpton, Sight and Sound Task Force David N. Anderson, Pastor 6 Youth News

Senior High Youth Nights for students in grades 9-12 continue to meet every Wednesday from 4:30- 6:20 pm. Youth nights are open to all High School Youth and include activities, games and dinner. Parents, we can always use help on youth nights either cooking or with activities. Please see Pastor Megan for more information and to volunteer. Youth are welcome to come early to church after school but there are no planned activities until 4:30 pm. Youth may either be in the Youth Room with the door open or in the Fellowship Hall working QUIETLY on homework.

Silent Auction—Going, Going, Gone - The youth Silent Auction is Coming Fast!!!! Please stop by the table in the Fellowship Hall between April 17th and April 24th and take a moment to bid on some of the wonderful services and handmade products the youth of our congregation have to offer! All profits go towards supporting and growing youth ministry here at St. Andrew’s Lutheran. If you would like to donate something to the silent auction, please contact Pastor Megan before April 13th.

Middle School Youth Event - Camp Clean Up Overnight! - Camp Hiawatha is having their clean up day on May 7th and is offering a special opportunity to our Middle school youth! Youth in grades 5 - 8 are invited to come out to the camp at 6:00 pm on Friday, May 6th to start the clean up and spend the night at the camp. Dinner will be provided and the camp will host a bonfire for the youth. Youth will stay overnight in the Retreat Center. And, it's all FREE! Youth will then be joined by other volunteers on Saturday, May 7th to finish the camp clean up projects. Volunteers and youth will be fed breakfast and lunch, and will help get our camps ready for the summer ahead. Please sign up in the Youth Room. Contact Myrna Peterson at 360- 0628 for more details.

Our 2016 Vacation Bible School program will be held the week of June 20-24; Monday-Friday from 9:00 am—12:00 noon each day. This year’s program is “Happy Holy Days/Journey with Jesus” and will focus on the special meaning behind some of your favorite holidays such as Easter and Christmas. VBS at St. Andrew’s is a fun occasion which includes Games, Crafts, Mission Projects, Bible stories, Songs, Snacks and LOTS of FUN!!! Registration is opening soon. Look for more information on our website www.saintand.org and in the church office.

St. Andrew's Preschool

St. Andrew's Preschool is currently accepting registrations for enrollment for the 2016-2017 school year. There are openings for both groups - 3 year olds meet on Tuesday & Thursday and the 4-5 year olds meet on Monday, Wednesday & Friday. Class is held from 8:30 to 11:30 am. Please contact Kelly Olsen, Preschool Director at 218-360-0293.

St. Andrew’s Rascals (for ages 55+) will meet Thursday, April 14. Guest speaker will be Pastor Megan Crouch presenting “How We Share Faith with Future Generations.” Program begins at 5:00 pm followed by catered dinner at 6:00 pm. $8.00 per person (payable in advance to Jean Gardner). Please contact Jean Gardner at 999-9890 with your reservation by noon Monday, April 11th. 7 Thank You Notes

Women of St. Andrew’s, Thank you for the cheerful, inspiring greeting St. Andrew’s, cards Don and I have received from your group! Thank you for your generous gift to ELCA The cards are so very thoughtful. World Hunger. With this gift, we seek to support Shirley & Don Kilcher sustainable solutions to care for those most affected by hunger and poverty. We are church that believe Dear St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church, God is calling us into the world—together. Thank Thank you for your recent donation to Second you for your prayers, your partnership and your Harvest North Central Food Bank. Your donations gifts. will help Second Harvest provide nutritious food to Thank you! Kelly Meh hungry children, low income seniors and struggling www.ELCA.org/hunger families in north central Minnesota. Every dollar donated to Second Harvest provides enough food for CONGRATULATIONS! up to five meals! Thrivent Choice® participants have thousands of Every week, Second Harvest provides food to options … but they chose you. Based on their over 3,500 people through our network of food recommendations, St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church shelves, soup kitchens, homeless shelters, senior received $2,110 in 2015. The Thrivent Choice programs and our Kids Packs to Go backpack program helps Thrivent members make a positive program. Your gift has made a meaningful impact in their communities. To learn more about difference in the lives of people right here in our this program, contact Thrivent Financial for local community. Thank you for your support. Lutherans at www.Thrivent.com/thriventchoice. Susan Estee, Executive Director

Pastoral Acts Funerals February 1 Lorraine M. Nelson

Special Gifts $20 to Memorial Fund in memory of Bruce Brown by Lisa Bolton $20 to Memorial Fund in memory of Jean McCowen by Lisa Bolton $15 to Sight & Sound System in memory of Mae Howe by Nancy Raymond $50 to Sight & Sound System in memory of Mae Howe by Janet K. James $100 to Sight & Sound System in memory of Mae Howe by Mike & Ardy Flaherty $1,000 to Sight & Sound System in memory of Mae Howe by Priscilla Marto $500 to Sight & Sound System in memory of William Flaherty by Mike & Ardy Flaherty $800 to Sight & Sound System in memory of Dr. Leslie & Daisy Olson by Barry & Angela Olson $100 to Sight & Sound System in memory of Wayne Weller by Mike & Ardy Flaherty $25 to Sight & Sound System in memory of Lorraine M. Nelson by Randy Harja & Mary Hiemenz $25 to Sight & Sound System in memory of Lorraine Nelson by Marvin & Cynthia Hietala $50 to Sight & Sound System in memory of Lorraine Nelson by Don Darnell $50 to Sight & Sound System in memory of Lorraine Nelson by Lisa & Steven Herold $50 to Sight & Sound System in memory of Lorraine Nelson by C & S Supply Company, Inc. $50 to Sight & Sound System in memory of Lorraine Nelson by Del T. Matteson $100 to Sight & Sound System in memory of Lorraine Nelson by L & M Supply, Inc. $100 to Sight & Sound System in memory of Lorraine Nelson by Terry & Margaret Matteson $500 to Sight & Sound System in memory of Lorraine Nelson by Frank Bedient $500 to Sight & Sound System in memory of Lorraine Nelson by Diane Bedient $133 for the Sound System by Art Class participants: Gayle Anderson, Cindy Busby, Marcie Greig, Fran Rowe, Leah White and Jan Stenson 8 Linking Women Together

Women's Group News Diane Mangseth, Chairperson Diane Hannah, Chairperson

"Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength." Mark 12:30

Monthly Spiritual Opportunities for all Sunday Coffee Hour Women of St. Andrew’s: Each monthly newsletter contains a list of the month’s serving group. If your name is on the  Quilting Group meets every Wednesday at 9:30 monthly list, please contact your leaders and let am in the Fireside Room. No experience them know when you can serve coffee and/or necessary. donate baked goods and snacks for Sunday  Prayer Shawl Ministry—“Let’s knit (crochet) mornings. together, you and me; praying, caring for others, as it should be.” Please come on April leader is Eileen Grosland. Tuesday, April 26, at 10:00 am to work on your Members of the April committee are: prayer shawl, start a prayer shawl, and/or Sheri Affeldt Helen Ahlbrecht learn how to make a prayer shawl for someone Pamela Akerman Alan Anderberg in need. We plan to meet the 4th Tuesday of Sandra Benzie Karen Brandt every month from 10:00-11:30 am. All are Jeff Britten David Christy welcome! Any questions, please call Gail Sherry Colter Angela Elhard Olijnek at 326-2431. Lissa Gelden Mary Grenzebach Sally Hagman Tara Hallie Diane Hannah Mindy Helle Randy Hiipaka Amber Jackson Carmen Jackson Dawn Jenkins Betty Johnson Emily Johnson Pamela Johnson Gail Jones Ron Keske Kathleen Kottke Addie Kuznia Alona LaMont Jessica Mackley Lynn Mallum Rene’ Mann Laurie Meyer Amanda Miller Marlene Mixa Audrey Moen Delaine Olson Ashley Peasley Norma Perry Reigel WELCA SPRING BANQUET is set for Andrea Peura Sue Poncelet Thursday, May 5, 2016. Ladies, guests and Nancy Raymond Nancy Reid Judy Rimmer Nancy Rollins children of all ages are welcome. “A TRIP TO Michelle Runge Sandy Schildt INDIA” will be our theme this year, with a style Kaitlin Sertich Victoria Stene show. The program will be presented by Brenda Connie Timm Melissa Ugrich Wagner. Registration and social time starts at Cindy Walberg Charlotte Wanstrom 5:30 pm and dinner will be served at 6:00 pm. Rebecca Winjum Faith Wopata Susan Zelenak Tickets for the event will be available between God Bless you for doing God’s Service. worship services, and following the second worship service on April 17, April 24, May 1 or at the church office. The cost of tickets is $10 for adults and $5.00 for children, age 12 and under. All reservations must be in by Sunday, May 1st.

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During the month of April, we will be focusing on the 6 Marks of Discipleship along with a renewal of what it means to be a Disciple in our walk with God. The Time and Talent forms will be given out during the first three Sunday’s in April. Because of God’s Great Mercy, we are disciples of Christ living the life God has chosen for us. It is up to each of us to ASK God what it is that we can do? THANK God for His love and guidance and TELL what it is that we can prayerfully offer in the involvement through St. Andrew’s ministry.

On April 4th Steve Teff will share his Discipleship Talk with you at the 8:00 am service. Linda Flom will share her Discipleship Talk at the 10:30 am service. On April 10th Peter Lavalier will share his Discipleship Talk at the 8:00 am service. Myrna Peterson will share her Discipleship Talk at the 10:30 am service. On April 17th Cari Janssen will share her Discipleship Talk at the 8:00 am service. Dick Ostroot will share his Discipleship Talk at the 10:30 am service.

A Discipleship Talk is an open sharing of one’s journey of faith and how God has touched the life of a person. Please keep Steve, Linda, Peter, Myrna, Cari and Dick in your prayers as they share their journey with you.

We will have a wooden box in the church sanctuary that you can return your Time and Talent sheets to; please complete a separate form for each person. Please return forms to St. Andrew’s no later than Sunday, the 24th of April. Jan Greiner has generously agreed to help organize the information along with Angela Olson, Parish Secretary. The information will go out to the committees you sign up for and a Committee member will then reach out to you.

On April 17th between worship services, every Committee will be coming together for a Ministry Fair with informational booths. Please come and learn and to have an idea of what all the committees actually do! This is an opportunity to find out how to become involved and have a better understanding of ways you can be a part of St. Andrew’s ministry. 10

St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church Church Council Meeting Minutes (Meeting during Annual Council Retreat) Saturday - February 19, 2016 at Big Sandy Camp

In attendance: Jim Martinetto (by Skype), Kim Jamtgaard, Lauren Brophy, Barry Olson, Allison Ahcan, Steve Teff, Audrey Moen, Renata Rogalla, Jack Rajala, Gretchen Bachmann, Pastor Megan Crouch, Pastor David Anderson, Carmen Jackson

The Council opened in prayer, led by Pastor Megan Crouch.

New Business: Barry Olson turned meeting over to Pastor David Anderson 1. Election of officers. Nominations open from the floor; private ballots. Election yielded the following: a. President: Barry Olson is re-elected. b. Vice president: Steve Teff Gretchen Bachman moved, Kim Jamtgaard seconded that a white ballot be accepted; motion passes. c. Secretary: Renata Rogalla

Barry Olson resumed control of the meeting 2. Assignment by Council President of committee chairs with input from the Council is as follows: a. Executive Committee: Barry Olson b. Finance: Jim Martinetto (retains) c. Property: Renata Rogalla d. Stewardship: Audrey Moen (retains) e. Worship: Gretchen Bachman f. Youth: Lauren Brophy (retains) g. Children & Family Ministry: Kim Jamtgaard h. Spiritual Growth: Jack Rajala (retains) i. Fellowship: Steve Teff j. WELCA Liaison: Cindy Busby (retains) k. Service: Allison Ahcan 3. Pastors’ Report: provided in writing by Pastor Anderson, was reviewed. 4. Council Minutes: Motion to approve by Lauren Brophy, second by Steve Teff. Motion passes. 5. Treasurer’s Report: Discussion of year-over-year situation, noting that January saw an increase of $1,000 above 2015. Motion to accept Treasurer’s Report by Gretchen Bachman, second by Kim Jamtgaard. Motion passes. 6. Congregational Tithing: Based on discussion from previous meetings and on giving at year-end, the Council considered several options for a tithe of 10% of net proceeds in 2015. Allison Ahcan moved the designation of $3,000 to Voyageurs Lutheran Ministry’s Tend & Nourish, Watch Them Flourish fund, second by Steve Teff. Motion passes. 7. Revision of credit card policy. Carmen Jackson requested consideration of a change in credit card policy for the St. Andrew’s Preschool program. Steve Teff moved to revise the church VISA credit card structure to reduce the preschool director’s limit (Kelly Olsen) to $2,500 and to add a limit for the lead teacher (Dixie Limanen) of $500; seconded by Jim Martinetto. Motion carries. 8. Update on Sight and Sound Taskforce: RFPs have been let, and a proposal has been received from the lead vendor. The proposal will be in the March Finance Committee agenda. Meanwhile, the Sight and Sound fundraising task force is under way and enthusiastic about the response they are experiencing. 9. Adjournment: Jack Rajala moved, Steve Teff seconded adjournment. Motion passes.

Meeting adjourned at 4:20 pm. Next scheduled Council meeting is March 15, 2016 at 6:00 pm. Devotions for next Council meeting – Barry Olson

Respectfully submitted, Allison Ahcan 11 SPECIAL OPPORTUNITY: Area ELCA congregations have joined together in inviting Pastor Vicki Taylor to lead a 6 session weekly Bible study in April and May. Pastor Vicki is recently retired from the Northeastern Minnesota Synod office and when asked what would be a good topic, suggested difficult or challenging biblical texts. For instance:

“And Jesus said, ‘Do you think I have come to bring peace to the earth? No, I tell you, but rather division!’” Luke 12:51.

Scripture is filled with these hard texts – texts that may not seem to fit with our concept of a loving and just God; texts that may elude our Western understanding of how life is to be lived; texts that challenge our faith and confuse us. Often, we gloss over these stories, parables and sayings in the Bible for just those reasons, but what happens if we decide to wrestle with them and ruminate upon them? You are invited to a six week “wrestling match” with some of the most uncomfortable parts of scripture. It might be enlightening . . . it may be disturbing, but it’s a chance to have a conversation with this Living Word and perhaps even argue with God. Please join the study every Monday or when you are able. We will gather at 9:45 am for coffee and simple refreshments and the hour long study will begin at 10:00 am. No need to pre-register or sign up: just show up! * The first 3 meetings will be at St. Andrew’s: April 4, April 11 and April 18 * The second 3 will be at Zion Lutheran: April 25, May 2 and May 9

Bridges Kinship Mentoring 8th Annual Taste of Itasca fundraiser is Tuesday, May 3, at the Timberlake Lodge Hotel. This event brings together area restaurants and caterers all providing samples of their specialties. Prior to the food sampling, there will be a wine and beer tasting. The event begins at 5 pm, dinner beginning at 6:30. A raffle and live auction will round out the evening. Get your friends together and enjoy one of the best social events of the year while investing in Itasca County children and youth! Tickets are $55 each and may be purchased by calling Bridges Kinship Mentoring at 326- 4700. All proceeds benefit the programs of Bridges Kinship Mentoring whose mission is to help children and adolescents to achieve their greatest selves by connecting them with positive role models who can befriend, inspire, encourage and guide them. Currently there are 19 children waiting to be matched with a mentor. Please contact Bridges Kinship Mentoring to learn more about how you can make a difference in a child's life and, in the process of doing so, make a difference in your own!

Spring Clean-Up Day Saturday, April 23 9:00 am Come help us clean inside and outside St. Andrew’s.

Contact Renata Rogalla, Property Committee Chairperson, or the church office for more information.

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Grade Confirmation Retreat at Retreat Confirmation Grade

Camp Hiawatha Camp

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Grade Confirmation Retreat at Retreat Confirmation Grade

Camp Hiawatha Camp

th

1 8 15 22 29 8:30a Preschool 8:30a 9 Preschool 8:30a Preschool 8:30a Preschool 8:30a Preschool 8:30a Assembly Synod Minnesota NE

Fri

7 14 21 28 8:30a Preschool 8:30a Al Anon 7:00p Preschool 8:30a Conferences Preschool 12:30p Dinner & Rascals Social 5:00p meets Team Finance 5:30p Al Anon 7:00p Preschool 8:30a WELCA Board 5:30p Al Anon 7:00p Preschool 8:30a Al Anon 7:00p

Thu

2016

12 12 12 12

- - - -

PRIL

7:00a Men’s Breakfast Men’s 7:00a

A

6 13 20 27 6:30p FINK 6:30p 8:30a Preschool 8:30a Quilting group 9:30a meeting Planning Auction 12:00p grades Youth 9 Night 4:30p Choir Handbell rehearsal 5:15p Choir 6:30p & rehearsals 5:30 Guide Huddle 6:30p Breakfast Men’s 7:00a Preschool 8:30a Quilting group 9:30a grades Youth 9 Night 4:30p Choir Handbell rehearsal 5:15p Choir 6:30p & rehearsals 5:30 Breakfast Men’s 7:00a Preschool 8:30a Quilting group 9:30a grades Youth 9 Night 4:30p Choir Handbell rehearsal 5:15p Choir 6:30p & rehearsals 5:30 Breakfast Men’s 7:00a Preschool 8:30a Quilting group 9:30a grades Youth 9 Night 4:30p Choir Handbell rehearsal 5:15p Choir 6:30p & rehearsals 5:30

Wed

5 12 19 26 8:30a Preschool 8:30a Youth Team 6:00p Preschool 8:30a Preschool 8:30a meets Church Council 6:00p Preschool 8:30a assemblyNewsletter 10:00a Ministry Shawl Prayer 10:00a

Tue

Taylor

Taylor Characters” Taylor Characters”

4 11 18 25 8:30a Preschool 8:30a Bible Vicky with Study Pastor 9:45a Ministries & Children Family 6:00p Cub Scouts 6:00p Preschool 8:30a Bible Vicky with Study Pastor 9:45a Conferences Preschool 12:30p Bible “New Testament Study 6:00p Preschool 8:30a Bible Vicky with Study Pastor 9:45a Preschool Conferences 4:30p Preschool 8:30a Bible “New Testament Study 6:00p

Mon

YouthTrip

-

& Service Auction Service &

Grade Confirmation Retreat at Retreat Confirmation Grade

Communion Communion with Holy Worship Prayers Healing & Communion Communion

Camp Hiawatha Camp

th

3 10 17 24 8:00 & 10:30a Worship with with Holy10:30a & Worship 8:00 School classes Sunday 9:20a Adult Forum 9:30a 9 10:30a & Contemporary 8:00 School classes Sunday 9:20a Adult Forum 9:30a Club potluck International 3:00p with Holy10:30a & Worship 8:00 School classes Sunday 9:20a Adult Forum 9:30a Building Team 12:00p with Holy10:30a & Worship 8:00 School classes Sunday 9:20a Adult Forum 9:30a by Pie followed Lunch 11:45a Sun

13

Up Day Up

-

Course for Youth Mission Trip for Youth Course

7 14 21 28 Camp Hiawatha Clean Hiawatha Camp High & Retreat Ropes Team

Sat

6 13 20 27 8:30a Preschool 8:30a Preschool 8:30a Preschool 8:30a Preschool 8:30a

Fri

5 12 19 26 2 8:30a Preschool 8:30a WELCA Banquet Spring 5:00p Al Anon 7:00p Preschool 8:30a Dinner & Rascals Social 5:00p meets Team Finance 5:30p Al Anon 7:00p Preschool 8:30a meets WELCA Board 5:30p Al Anon 7:00p Preschool 8:30a Al Anon 7:00p Al Anon 7:00p

Thu

12 12 12

- - -

2016

AY

4 11 18 25 1 June 5:15p Handbell Choir rehearsal Handbell 5:15p Choir rehearsal Handbell 5:15p 7:00a Men’s Breakfast Men’s 7:00a Preschool 8:30a Quilting Group 9:30a grades Youth 9 Night 4:30p Men’s/Mixed Choirs 6:30p & 5:30 Breakfast Men’s 7:00a Preschool 8:30a Quilting Group 9:30a grades Youth 9 Night 4:30p Recognition Seniors Dinner 5:00p Men’s/Mixed Choirs 6:30p & 5:30 FINK 6:30p Breakfast Men’s 7:00a Preschool 8:30a Quilting Group 9:30a grades Youth 9 Night 4:30p Choir Handbell rehearsal 5:15p Men’s/Mixed Choirs 6:30p & 5:30 FINK 6:30p Breakfast Men’s 7:00a Preschool 8:30a Quilting Group 9:30a Breakfast Men’s 7:00a Lakeside Worship Service 6:00p

Wed

M

3 10 17 24 31 8:30a Preschool 8:30a Group Conversation 10:00a Youth meets Team 6:00p Preschool 8:30a Preschool 8:30a meets Church Council 6:00p Preschool 8:30a

Tue

Church Office closed Church Office

-

MemorialDay

2 9 16 23 30 8:30a Preschool 8:30a Ministry & Children Family 6:00p Cub Scouts 6:00p Preschool 8:30a Preschool 8:30a Cub Scouts 6:00p Preschool 8:30a Holiday

Mon

Communion Healing & Prayers Communion

Worship with Holy Communion with Holy Worship

1 8 15 22 29 8:00 & 10:30a Worship with with Holy10:30a & Worship 8:00 School classes Sunday 9:20a Adult Forum 9:30a 10:30a & Contemporary 8:00 School classes Sunday 9:20a Adult Forum 9:30a with Holy10:30a & Worship 8:00 School classes Sunday 9:20a Adult Forum 9:30a Communion Worship w/Holy 8:00 School classes Sunday 9:20a Adult Forum 9:30a Program Youth Spring 10:30a Worship Communion w/Holy 9:00a Sun 14

St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church 501 NW 16th Street NONPROFIT Grand Rapids MN 55744 U.S. POSTAGE PAID

RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED PERMIT NO. 286 GRAND RAPIDS MN 55744 Worship Service Schedule September-May Sunday School 9:20 am Adult Forum 9:30 am Worship 8:00 & 10:30 am Memorial Day - Labor Day Sunday Worship 9:00 am Wednesday Worship 6:00 pm

ST. ANDREW’S MISSION STATEMENT

WELCOME All people of faith in community in Jesus Christ, inviting and celebrating a rich diver- sity of members.

CELEBRATE God’s presence in our lives.

GROW In our experience and understanding of God’s grace and God’s purpose for our lives.

REACH Out with compassion to those in need, especially those who have not heard the gospel of Jesus Christ.

St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church Treasurer’s Statement end of February 2016

The total contribution General Fund income for the first 2 months of 2016 is $55,574 and the total expenses were $59,018 making our net income -$3,444. Year to date, our income is above budget and our expenses are nearly at budget. Thank you for your continued faithful response to the ministry and mission of St. Andrew’s.

Respectfully submitted, Carmen Jackson, Co-treasurer