NORTHEASTERN IOWA SEPTEMBER 2019 • VOLUME 32, ISSUE 8

Evangelical Lutheran Church in America

Celebrating Renewal:Star Katherine von Bora Luther — Faith in the Home Teaching faith can mean finding the answers together by Marcia Hahn

Pastor Rebecca when they were saying Kate’s Ninke writes bedtime prayers together. The a lot about book portrays one kid’s experi- faith and how ence praying for funny and to teach it to poignant things, sometimes others. She likes in surprising times and places people to know like when the character is that they do picking up dog poop in the not need to be Rebecca Ninke yard. Ninke and her daughter experts to teach hoped to convey the message the faith. that kids can just talk to God anytime and anywhere about “You don’t have to be holy to be anything. faithful,” Ninke says. “It’s okay for parents and Sunday school teach- Ninke says that rituals around ers to not have all the answers. It’s prayer are an important part okay to say to the kids I’m not sure. of sharing faith at home with That’s a great question, let’s find her children, and so are the out together.” informal conversations she has Pastor Rebecca Ninke and her nine-year-old daughter wrote the children’s book There’s No Wrong Way to Pray with them about everyday life, to help kids learn how easy it is to pray to God. Ninke serves as part-time pastor such as being good stewards, for two ELCA congregations in giving thanks to God for food the Madison, Wis., area and is an and learning not to waste food. author and freelance writer/editor. >> Continued on page 2 She has been a writer and contribu- “A façade of holiness is not what tor for 16 years for publications we’re going for,” Ninke says. “We sit offered through 1517 Media (for- down and talk about what it costs to merly Augsburg Fortress), the pub- own a house, pay bills, give to the IN THIS ISSUE lishing house for the ELCA. Her church and give to hunger organiza- name appears as a contributor for tions.” 1 Teaching faith can mean finding numerous curriculum resources, in- the answers together cluding The Lutheran Handbook and Those types of conversations about Write, speak and act the newer confirmation curricula, everyday experiences are a great 3 way for parents to share faith-based Colaborate and Re:Form. Churchwide Assembly Summary values with their children, espe- 5 of Actions Most recently, Ninke co-authored cially if the parents feel they don’t the children’s book There’s No Wrong know much about faith. Ninke Little Pantries let us give freely Way to Pray with her daughter, Kate, points to a cultural shift against 6 who was nine at the time. They church affiliation, which has left 7 Congregations came up with the idea for the book many parents feeling they are not 8 Prayer Calendar Teaching faith can mean finding the answers together << Continued from page 1 equipped to share the basics in faith everyday conversations. Ninke rec- SMALL STEPS GROW FAITH AT HOME ­— so they don’t even try to share it ommends the Whirl DVDs, which with their children. feature animated characters who Jake Bouma is use light-hearted wit to address a veteran youth Ninke recalls leading a confirma- common situations and questions worker who tion class a few years ago when she related to living out their faith. The contributes to asked the kids about their prayer short videos are part of a larger Sparkhouse life and what they have been taught Sunday school package, but can curricula and about prayers at home. They an- also be used by families. serves as direc- swered her with a room full of blank tor of Youth and stares. Another favorite standby for Ninke Family Ministry Jake Bouma is The Lutheran Handbook, which she for Faith Lu- “The kids were from good church still gives to all of her confirmation theran in Clive, Iowa. As part of families who were there every week, classes. The handbook uses humor his confirmation classes, Bouma but the parents weren’t teaching to share practical tips and fun facts talks to parents about how they their kids about prayer and how to to give a basic understanding of Lu- can encourage faith in the home. talk to God,” Ninke says. theran teachings and theology. His best advice for parents is to not Ninke emphasizes that parents can outsource the faith development of help their children practice faith by their child to the church. being mindful of faith when teach- “… I still don’t know all the answers, Bouma helps parents set expecta- ing their children how to make but I know where to look. That’s the tions for what they can do in the decisions in life, such as being nice home to teach the faith and he to other kids at school — especially gift of faith ­­— you can keep on offers tools and resources to help those who are being picked on — learning and keep on exploring.” them. “We create a document for because they have their own set of —Rebecca Ninke parents to display in their home, challenges. like a reading chart to keep track of “Parents can help their kids under- their faith development.” stand at an early age that their ex- For anyone feeling overwhelmed He asks parents of confirmation perience is not the only one,” Ninke trying to teach faith to others, students to commit to continuing says. “If adults can wrap their heads Ninke shared these five tips in a the covenant of baptism, which around that too, it can go a long post she wrote last year for the can mean participating in worship, way in the world and in our faith Sparkhouse blog: being a mentor, or joining in service practices and how we help others “You don’t have to know everything, or fellowship opportunities. worship.” or even close to everything.” “You’ll “We ask parents to be involved with Ninke makes a point to invite learn stuff too!” “Not everyone will the church in ways they are com- parents to be part of communion remember everything you say, but fortable, such as being a chaperone classes with their children. “I find they will remember what you did.” or other volunteer opportunity,” from the look on their faces that the “Not feeling holy enough? Join the Bouma says. refresher is good for them — they club.” “The Christian faith has been keep learning, too. We are getting passed on to another generation for 2,000 years by people just like you.” Bouma emphasizes the importance more parents who didn’t grow up of incorporating prayer into the in the church, so we can’t presume “I went to seminary and 20 years daily routine at home. He and his they have Biblical knowledge.” later I still don’t know all the an- four-year-old son, Grayson, follow the “help, thanks, and wow” rou- Parents can tap a number of user- swers, but I know where to look,” tine, which was featured in a best- friendly resources from 1517 Me- Ninke says. “That’s the gift of faith dia’s Sparkhouse to bring faith into — you can keep on learning and keep on exploring.” >> Continued on page 6

2 NORTHEASTERN IOWA SYNOD | www.neiasynod.org BISHOP Write, speak and act I have always been fascinated by More people the word “importunity.” I believe “Because of our importunity, die of gun vio- that it only appears once in scrip- perhaps there can be a change.” lence in this ture. The gentlest synonym is country than “persistence.” Another is closer ­— in any other “shameless insistence.” developed country. There are other solutions It is not that I have grown weary of the culture of than what our country has explored. massacres — I am sickened by it beyond description. I do not pretend that there is anything that I write, Because of our importunity, perhaps there can be a say or do that will make a difference. change. But we must write, speak and act. ­— Steven L. Ullestad Bishop, Northeastern Iowa Synod

Join the Fall Leadership Event Tri-Synodical Fall Conference Sept. 22-24, 2019 Saturday, Sept. 21, 2019 West Des Moines, Iowa St. Paul’s, Waverly Registration for the Tri-Synodical Fall Conference is open Pastor Daniel Rift, director for until Wednesday, Sept. 18. The event is set for Sept. 22-24 ELCA World Hunger and Disaster at the Sheraton Hotel in West Des Moines with worship Appeal, will lead devotions and services at Faith Lutheran in Clive. be available for consultation at the synod’s annual Fall Leader- The conference includes theological discussions, worship ship Event, set for Saturday, Sept. Daniel Rift services, group meals and designated free time. This 21, at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church year’s theme — “Faith Formation as Shared Mission” and School in Waverly. The event — will focus on new ways to proclaim the good news begins at 9:30 a.m. and concludes at 12:30 p.m., with outside the congregation in the public square. lunch included. Featured speakers will be Deacon Dr. Jeremy Myers, The Fall Leadership Event is an opportunity for lay and associate professor for , ; rostered members to meet in person to learn about and Deacon Chelle Huth, director of Lifelong Learning synod ministries and networks, join a network, and and Certificate Studies for United Lutheran Seminary, Get- plan projects for the coming year. Network members tysburg, Pa. ELCA Secretary Chris Boerger will give a pre- also connect throughout the year through emails, sentation at one of the sessions and preach and preside at Facebook, Skype, and conference calls. the Monday evening worship service.

The synod networks and committees that will be The registration fee for the conference is $130 per person. meeting are Companion Synod-Hungary, Companion A special group rate at the Sheraton of $102 per night is Synod-Namibia, Disaster Response, Hunger, Lutheran available for Sept. 22-24. The last day to book rooms at the Youth Organization, Men’s Ministry, Generosity, group rate is Sunday, Sept. 8. AMMPARO Welcoming, Racial Justice Advocacy, and Compensation Committee. To learn more about the conference and to register online, visit www.neiasynod.org/event/#Tri-Synodical. There is no cost to attend. To register, call the synod office, 319-352-1414, by Wednesday, Sept. 11, or email Kathy Liddle, [email protected].

SEPTEMBER 2019 3 Workshops to Focus on Youth Ministry Sunday, Sept. 29, 2019 for Fifth and Sixth Grade Students led by Gina DeBoer St. Paul’s, Waverly, Iowa of Immanuel, Independence.

Youth ministry leaders from the Northeastern Iowa Synod • What is Faith Formation? led by Robin Souhrada of will lead an afternoon of workshops for everyone who Bethlehem, Cedar Falls. works with children and youth in their congregations. • How to Lead a Bible Study led by Pastor Mark The “Youth Ministry Intensive” event will offer eight Anderson, assistant to the Bishop. workshops on Sunday, Sept. 29, from 1:30-4:30 p.m. at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church and School in Waverly. The • How to Lead Games — and Some Game Ideas led by workshops will offer creative ideas for volunteers, youth Aimee Hanson of St. Paul, Hampton. ministry leaders and pastors to use in their youth ministry • What is Faith 5? led by Kristin Mooneyham-Johnson of programs. St. Petri, Story city. CHOOSE FOUR WORKSHOPS • Fundraising led by Christin Flucke of St. Peter, Greene. Each workshop will be approximately 30 minutes long. • Looking Ahead to the 2021 Gathering: What Does a Participants can choose four workshops to attend. Year of Preparation Look Like for a Congregation? led by Deb Bachman of St. Paul’s, Waverly. • What is Urban Immersion and How Do You Plan a Trip? led by Marcy Colvin of Trinity, Mason City. REGISTER BY SEPT. 27 • One Congregation’s Journey of Starting a Youth Group Cost to attend is $5 per person. Refreshments and re- sources to take home are included.

To register by the Sept. 27 deadline or to learn more, Middle School Lock-In visit, www.neiasynod.org/youth-ministry/ or call Deb Oct. 11-12, 2019 Bachman, 319-352-2850. UNI Wellness Center, Cedar Falls

Junior high and middle school students are invited to the 20th annual Middle School Lock-In set for Oct. NORTHEASTERN IOWA SYNOD 11-12 at the UNI Wellness Center in Cedar Falls. Bishop Steven L. Ullestad – [email protected] Assistants to the Bishop The lock-in will feature the theme “How Great is Your Rev. Mark A. Anderson – [email protected] God.” Activities include an opening prayer, worship, Rev. Stephen Brackett – [email protected] Linda J. Hudgins – [email protected] large group activity, pizza, and snacks. Students will ELCA Director for Evangelical Mission have plenty of time for fun and games, including Rev. Dr. Joelle Colville-Hanson – [email protected] swimming, volleyball, basketball, climbing wall, ping Star Editor Marcia Hahn – [email protected] pong, racket ball and inflatables. The Star is published 11 times a year by the Northeastern Iowa Synod, 201 20th Street SW, PO Box 804, Waverly, IA 50677-0804; The event is sponsored in partnership with the www.neiasynod.org, phone 319-352-1414, FAX 319-352-1416. Lutheran Student Center at the University of Northern Send news for the October 2019 issue to Marcia Hahn by Sept. 11. Iowa. It begins at 8 p.m. Friday and ends at 6:30 a.m. We welcome story ideas related to the 2019 theme, “Celebrating Saturday. Renewal: Katherine von Bora Luther — Faith in the Home.”

Articles in this newsletter may be duplicated for If registered by Friday, Sept. 27, the registration fee is use in synod congregations and organizations, with credit to the Star newsletter. $40 per youth; $50 after that date. Please notify the synod office with name and Registration materials, a poster and schedule can be address changes. To receive an electronic version downloaded at www.neiasynod.org/youth-ministry. of the Star, rather than paper, send your request to [email protected]. www.neiasynod.org

4 NORTHEASTERN IOWA SYNOD | www.neiasynod.org Churchwide Assembly Summary of Actions The ELCA Churchwide Assembly met at the Wisconsin Center in Mil- waukee Aug. 5-10, 2019, to discuss and make decisions about how to go about God’s work as a church, with the theme “We are church.”

Among the actions taken by the more than 900 voting members:

• Re-elected on the first ballot the Rev. Elizabeth A. Eaton to a six-year term as ELCA presiding bishop.

• Elected Deacon Sue Rothmeyer to a six-year term as ELCA secre- Voting members from the Northeastern Iowa Synod had second row seats for the 2019 Church- tary. wide Assembly in Milwaukee. • Approved the social statement “Faith, Sexism and Justice: A Call rite for ministers of Word and • Adopted a resolution to support to Action” and its implementing Service, and an amendment the World Council of Church’s resolutions. to no longer count deacons as “Thursdays in Black” campaign laypeople for representational toward a world without rape and • Adopted a memorial that affirms principles. violence. the ELCA’s long-standing commitment to migrants and • Adopted the “Strategy Toward • Adopted a memorial to encour- refugees and declares the ELCA Authentic Diversity in the ELCA. age all synods and congregations a sanctuary church body. to commemorate the 50th an- • Adopted 26 memorials en bloc, niversary of the ELCA’s ordina- • Adopted a resolution to condemn ranging in topics from gun tion of women in 2020, the 40th white supremacy and call on all violence to engagement in the anniversary of the ordination of ELCA congregations to engage Holy Land and gender identity to women of color in the Lutheran in a study of the structures and seminary tuition. tradition, and the 10th anniver- rhetoric that empower and fuel • Adopted a memorial to support sary of the ELCA’s decision to racism and white supremacy. the vision and goals of the Poor remove barriers to ordination for people in same-gender relation- • Adopted “A Declaration of Inter- People’s Campaign that align ships. Religious Commitment,” to serve with the ELCA’s social teachings. as church policy for inter-reli- • Adopted a resolution to com- Presiding Bishop Eaton an- gious relations. memorate June 17 as a day of nounced that the 2022 Church- wide Assembly will take place in • Witnessed the presentation of repentance in the ELCA for the Columbus, , at the Greater the “Declaration of the ELCA to martyrdom of the Emanuel 9— Columbus Convention Center Aug. People of African Descent.” the nine people who were shot and killed June 17, 2015, during a 8-13, 2022. • Adopted a series of amendments Bible study in Charleston, S.C. Read more about the actions to the “Constitutions, Bylaws and at https://elca.org/News-and- Continuing Resolutions of the • Adopted a memorial that calls for Events/8003. View videos from the Evangelical Lutheran Church developing a social statement and assembly at https://www.elca.org/ in America,” including one that social message on the relation- CWA. makes ordination the entrance ship of church and state.

SEPTEMBER 2019 5 GENEROSITY

Teaching faith can mean finding the answers together Little Pantries let us give freely << Continued from page 2 Thirteen congregations in the EVANGELISM selling book of the same name. Northeastern Iowa Synod have now The pantries demonstrate to the established “Little Free Food Pan- whole community that the con- “We pray for what we need help tries.” These are wooden boxes nor- gregation can identify community with, what we are thankful for and mally on a pole outside the church needs and play a role in addressing what is a wow for the day,” Bouma building. The object is to share a them. It shows that as Christians explains. “It’s fun to hear my four- space where people can “take what and as Lutherans we care about our year-old articulate those and be they need and leave what they can.” neighbors and take Scripture seri- tuned in with the needs and hurts ously. These Little Food Pantries are an of others.” excellent example of good steward- At church, Grayson looks forward ship. Those who can afford to do- AWARENESS The boxes are a reminder each time to his own ritual of dipping a finger nate freely take from their God-giv- in the baptismal font every time en abundance and share with those we enter and leave church that there are neighbors among us who need they walk by it. “He dips his finger, in need. There are no questions for makes a sign on his forehead, and those who need to take food, no help. The Department of Human Services reports that an average of says, ‘God loves me,’ ” Bouma says. test to see if they deserve the help “It’s not official church language, — simply a gift to a recipient. 356,767 Iowans receive food assis- tance each month — that’s about but he still gets it that there is I especially like three things about one in eight Iowans. Of those who something powerful and holy in that the pantries: receive help, 53 percent are younger ritual. I can’t guarantee that he’ll than 18 or older than 59. An average always want to do that, but the fact KINDNESS of 3,258 elderly Iowans receive com- that he does now is significant.” modities from the state each month. Many people who are in need have Bouma says parents can invite dif- jobs; they just don’t earn enough Yes, there is poverty in Iowa and it ferent prayers and rituals into their or they have unexpected expenses is as prevalent in rural areas as it is life. They can display Luther’s like medical bills or car repairs. Be- in cities, and it affects mostly the “Morning Prayer” on the bathroom cause they need to be at work, they young and the old. mirror to get prayer on everyone’s often cannot get to the local food mind when they are brushing their shelves when they are open — and What a bless- teeth. Conversation starters on apps yes, some people are too proud to ing it is to have and cards offer open-ended ques- be seen getting food. The Little Free enough to share! tions that can help families engage Food Pantry is a way that people can in conversations connected to faith. — Pastor Mark A. discreetly receive a small amount of The Small Catechism app is another Anderson emergency help. convenient resource for parents and Assistant to the youth to access. Bishop “As a parent, I think about incor- porating my understanding of the world theologically into conversa- Men’s Ministry mission seeks volunteers tions throughout the day and week with my son,” Bouma says. “I went Lutheran Men in Mission is seeking volunteers to help 2017 hurricane victims camping with my son and asked recover in St. Croix, US Virgin Islands. All labor skills/abilities are welcome, with him, ‘Isn’t it cool that God created a real need for experienced carpenters. Volunteers who stay 15 days or more all these different things?’ It’s a pro- and work on homes 40 hours each of the two weeks will have their airfare, cess to be mindful of and to know transportation, room and board paid for by the U.S. Federal Emergency Man- that the way I see the world and agement Agency (FEMA). articulate that, is how he will see it Learn more at www.neiasynod.org/ministries/mens-ministry. too.”

6 NORTHEASTERN IOWA SYNOD | www.neiasynod.org EVENTS CONGREGATIONS

SEPTEMBER EVENTS INSTALLATION 2 Office Closed, Labor Day Rev. Bryan Robertson, St. John, Waukon, Oct. 6 3 Meeting, Executive Committee, Synod Office, 9 a.m. CALL EXTENDED 5 Meeting, Interim Ministry Colleague Group, Dysart, Zion 9:30-11:30 a.m. 5 Conference Call, First Call Theological Education Executive Committee, 10-11 a.m. INTERVIEWING 5 Meeting, Youth Ministry Network, Bethlehem, Castalia, Zion, Rev. Jim Harbaugh, interim Cedar Falls, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Cedar Falls, Bethlehem, Rev. Audrey Lukasak, interim 8 Event, “God’s work. Our hands.” ELCA Day of Cedar Falls, St. John Service Dubuque, Holy Trinity (staff) 12 Event, New to Synod, Synod Office, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Dubuque, St. Matthew 21 Event, Fall Leadership Day, St. Paul’s, Waverly, Independence, Immanuel (staff) 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Nashua, St. John, Rev. Charis Combs-Lay, interim 21 Meeting, Synod Council, St. Paul’s, Waverly, Rockwell, St. Peter and Thornton, St. Paul, Rev. Joel 12:45-3 p.m. Dahlen, contract interim 22-24 Meeting, Tri-Synodical Fall Conference, West Tripoli, St. John (Crane Creek) Des Moines Waverly, Bartels Lutheran Retirement Community 29 Event, “Youth Ministry Intensive” Workshops, St. Paul’s, Waverly, 1:30-4:30 p.m. SELF-STUDY Belmond, Trinity OCTOBER EVENTS Charles City, Messiah, Rev. Norman Bauer, interim 3 Meeting, Interim Ministry Colleague Group, Chester, United 9:30-11:30 a.m. Cresco, Immanuel 3 Meeting, Youth Ministry Network, First, Decorah, Decorah, Decorah 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Elma, St. Paul (Maple Leaf) 8 Event, Colleague Leaders Gathering, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Guttenberg, St. John’s and St. Paul 11-12 Event, Middle School Lock-In, UNI Wellness Hawkeye, Trinity Center, Cedar Falls Mason City, St. Paul, Rev. Matthew Muters, contract 24 Event, First Call Theological Education New Hampton, Trinity (staff) Orientation, Synod Office, 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Northwood, First 31 Meeting, Conference Deans and Chaplains, Ridgeway, Peace, Orleans & Madison (Ridgeway Parish) 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Sumner, St. Peter (Richfield) and Waucoma, St. John (Stapleton) Tripoli, Grace, Rev. Dennis Niezwaag, contract interim NOVEMBER EVENTS Waterloo, St. John (Bennington) 7 Meeting, Interim Ministry Colleague Group, 9:30-11:30 a.m. 7 Meeting, Youth Ministry Network, St. Petri, Story ROSTER CHANGES City, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Rev. Dr. Martin Lohrmann, Assistant Professor 8-10 Event, LMM Men’s Retreat – “One Year to of Lutheran Confessions and Heritage, Wartburg Live,” Camp Ewalu Theological Seminary, transferred from Greater 27 Office Closed, Thanksgiving, 12 Noon-4:30 p.m. Milwaukee Synod 28-29 Office Closed, Thanksgiving Rev. Dr. Walter “Chip” Bouzard, transferred to Virginia Synod DECEMBER EVENTS 5 Meeting, Interim Ministry Colleague Group, SUNDAY, 9:30-11:30 a.m. SEPT. 8, 2019 5 Meeting, Youth Ministry Network, St. Peter, Greene, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. 5 Meeting, Candidacy Committee, Synod Office, ELCA congregations will join in service and mission 1-5 p.m. projects on Sunday, Sept., 8, as part of the “God’s Work. 6 Meeting, Candidacy Committee, Synod Office, Our Hands.” dedicated­ day of service. 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Look for photos on the synod’s Facebook page, 16-26 Office Closed www.facebook.com/neiasynod.

SEPTEMBER 2019 7 PRAYER CALENDAR

SEPTEMBER 2019 SUN MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT H. George Anderson Fund for Leaders Our Saviour’s, Rev. Robert A. Scheurer, Betty J. Urlaub, Amy B. Wrightsman, St. Paul, Marble Rock Mason City Rockford St. James, Mason City Garnavillo Decorah Edna Kamper, Algona 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

Rev. O. Paul Hougen, Rev. Selmer G. Hernes, St. Paul, Mason City Decorah Forest City Trinity, Mason City St. Paul, Maynard First, McGregor St. Paul, Monona 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 Middle East Peace Rev. Nathan H. Rev. James J. Carstensen, Rev. Hillary E. Clements, La Porte City Raymond, Miss. Burns-Kite, Garnavillo Rev. James E. Rev. Joshua L. Schunk, Rev. David R. Nelson, St. Luke, Klosterboer, McGregor St. John, Nashua Oelwein Alice M. Martin, Asbury Decorah Trinity, New Hampton Nora Springs 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 Rev. Paul C. Nelson, Rev. Vincent C. Fricke, Waverly Waverly Rev. Erika J. Kielstrup, Rev. Dawn L. Pederson, Rev. Megan E. Graves, Deacon Susan A. First, Northwood Silver Lake, Northwood Monona St. Peter, Oran Denver Cedar Falls Garbes, Nashua 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 Rev. Michael G. Ashman, La Porte City Rev. James H. Carpenter, Waverly Rev. Kathryn H. Wicks, Zion, Oelwein Dubuque 29 30

‘One Year to Live’ Men’s Retreat OBITUARY Nov. 8-10, 2018 Camp Ewalu, Strawberry Point Pastor Chuck Ager died Sunday, Aug. 11, 2019, at the age of 81. He was ordained on June 8, 1969. He served Men of all ages are invited to attend as associate pastor at Trinity, New Hampton; pastor the “One Year to Live” men’s retreat at St. John, Dundee/St. Peter, Lamont; First/Clayton set for the weekend of Nov. 8-10 County Lutheran Area Ministry, McGregor; St. Paul, at Ewalu Camp and Retreat Center, Wellsburg, all in Iowa; St. Paul (Cave Creek), Fredericks- Strawberry Point. burg; Martin Luther, Giddings; and Bethlehem, Quihi, all in Texas. He retired on Oct. 1, 1999. Presented by Lutheran Men in Mission in partnership with the Northeastern Iowa Synod and Camp The memorial service took place Aug. 31 at Emanuel Ewalu, this 45-hour spiritual boot camp gives men an Lutheran, Strawberry Point. A full obituary is posted at opportunity to band together to reexamine their life and www.jamisonschmitzfuneralhome.com. priorities, make decisions for their future, and discover Pastor Ager is survived by his wife, Beverly, and two how God has equipped them to live. children. Expressions of sympathy may be sent to The weekend starts at 5:30 p.m. Friday and concludes at Beverly Ager, 277 Cedar Wood Hills, Strawberry Point, IA 3 p.m. Sunday. The cost to attend is $150 if registered by 52076. Friday, Oct. 25; $175 after that date. The fee includes two nights lodging, five meals and retreat materials.

To learn more, download the brochure/registration form at www.neiasynod.org/ministries/mens-ministry or call Jim Rathe at 319-231-5749 September 2019 Volume 32 Good News Number 8

As a community of women created in the image of God, called to discipleship in Jesus Christ, and empowered by the Holy Spirit, we commit ourselves to grow in faith, affirm our gifts, support one another in our callings, engage in ministry and action, and promote healing and wholeness in the church, the society, and the world. From the President their whole congregation involved in ongoing projects such as While I was making other plans….. the Spirit making quilts & blankets or putting together LWR kits. Others moved you!!! organize a church or community clean up. Bake sales or Have you ever played the game “Around this room I draw freewill dinners, with the profits going toward a cause, is the magic circle, when the spirit moves you, get up and another popular choice. Even if your congregation has not leave the room?” It was a game we played at camp in the organized an event, you can do your own stewardship. Go visit early 90s. The how of the game is not as important as the that person you haven’t seen in church. Buy some LWR kit thought of the spirit moving you to action. I am reminded supplies. Attend another church’s fundraiser or donate to a of all the times I was making plans and God had other charity. We steward in some way each day. ideas and redirected me. Like when I arrived at college Stewardship shows that we care about the people around and said, I don’t need to attend worship weekly and us, about animals and plants, and all the other resources that Sunday morning I felt like I was the only one up and have been given to us by God. Stewardship is the way we remembered reading about when and where to go to share our God-given talents with others. When we come worship. It was my first experience of a contemporary together and share talents, we accomplish many things that worship service. I really liked it and decided I could are not possible alone. Submitted by Deb Jacobsen. handle that kind of service at 11 a.m. Have you felt the NB: LWR is especially in need of school kits this year. spirit move you? Please share your stories. I am truly honored by your trust, faith and confidence Discipleship Committee in my leadership. I request you continue praying for your Some of you may remember that just a year ago we spent two Synodical Women’s Organization board, all Women of days learning about and sharing in the ministries of LWR, the ELCA, the ministries we participate in, and the future Global Health Ministries, and Mary’s Place in the Twin Cities. I of the organization. I look forward to serving with the think everybody agreed it was a heartening, enjoyable, and awesome and amazing women you have selected as worthwhile trip which encouraged our own endeavors in your board. I can’t wait to meet those of you in the synod ministry, and taught us a lot. I haven’t met yet and get to know more of you. We have another adventure available this year, sponsored I hope you all are willing to be open to ideas. Some by the SE Iowa Synod, and open to all three synods. The Tri- may be new to you. Others may be old news, tried and Synodical Fall Retreat will be held October 4 & 5 in Ames. A true for your group. Please be sure to share your ideas, registration form is available at neiasynod.org/women-of-the- suggestions or concerns with us elca. Diane Wills is arranging transport from the west end of (https://www.facebook.com/NEIASWO, your cluster the synod for people who are interested. Contact her at leadership, cluster shepherdess, or any of the board [email protected]. Hope to see you in October! members). Submitted by Jan Harbaugh I’d like to thank everyone for attending the convention in June and for voting for me as your president. Another Justice Committee thing about me personally. I am a very honest and open- I recently watched the movie Instant Family. The plot involves minded person willing and able to take suggestions to a successful couple who decide to adopt a child. They go make us a better organization. I welcome anyone and through the foster parent training and then meet children and you can talk to me anytime. Your President, Anna J. express interest in a teenager. The couple then finds out she is part of a sibling group of three. The movie shows some of the Stewardship Committee ups and downs and adjustments everyone goes through. The definition of stewardship on Wikipedia is; “the job of There comes a time when it looks like the children will be supervising or taking care of something.” When God returned to their biological parent, but in the end the parent created the world, He chose us as stewards over all His doesn’t follow through, so the children are adopted by the creation. couple. It reminds me of all the children that I have One of the largest days of organized stewardship encountered as part of my job. Most do stay with their parents; within the ELCA takes place this year on Sunday, however, these families do have needs that most of us have September 8th. “God’s work. Our Hands” Sunday is an never experienced. There are things we can do to help them. ELCA day of service. Congregations do a wide range of Most of us do what we can to donate to our local community service projects on this day. Many take this day to get services. What you may not realize is that social organizations also CALENDAR Department of Human Services. Sep. 6 & 7 Ecumenical Conference, Bethany, Kensett Family: I live near my Mom on the “other farm” my parents Sep. 28 Upper Iowa Cluster D Fall Gathering, St. bought after I graduated from high school. I have three John’s LC, Waukon brothers and one sister, 4 in-laws, 2 nieces (twins), 2 Oct. 4–5 Tri-Synod Fall Retreat, Bethesda LC, Ames nephews, 2 great nephews. For all of you who have seen my Oct. 19 Living Waters Cluster G Fall Gathering, 8:30– address or license plate, yes, I am from , but I can 11:30, St. Paul, Mason City see Iowa from my living room. Nov. 1 Deadline for Triennial Gathering Scholarship Here is my inheritance from my Dad, being a story teller. applications Here is the story of how I arrived here with you all. I had Nov. 9 LWR Ingathering, St. Peter LC, Denver recently returned to my home town and was living in my Nov. 11 LWR Ingathering, South Port Mall (old Sears parents’ basement. One day in the mail, my mother received area) 9–11 the brochure for the Triennial Gathering that was going to be in Salt Lake City, Utah. A friend of mine had said if you ever get need us to advocate for them by contacting your state a chance to go to Utah, be sure to check out the national representatives and representatives in Congress, in Des parks. So, I asked my mom if she wanted to go with me. She Moines and Washington D.C., to ensure that laws said no. Then I asked if she thought any of the ladies from continue to protect and provide the services these children church might go with. She didn’t know but suggested I ask need to ensure they are safe and cared for. If you want to them. So, I asked at the next meeting. No one wanted to go, know more, there is Lutheran Day on The Hill in Des but then the fall cluster meeting happened and someone Moines when Lutheran Services in Iowa and the three brought me back a scholarship application. I submitted it and Iowa Synods of the ELCA gather together to meet with received the scholarship. For my birthday, my parents gave state representatives, more details can be found at me money for the train ticket. (That was the year the train lsiowa.org. flooded out in southern Iowa, so about two weeks before the You can also pray for families in need, the Department trip, they refunded my ticket. I was able to get an airplane of Human Services and the other social organizations that ticket and ended up going out a couple days earlier and had do what they can to help the families deal with addiction, my cousin show me around the area.) I knew one name and domestic violence, sexual abuse, homelessness and saw one other person I knew before I came to Salt Lake City. I many other issues. You can also contact the local social did attend the brunch the NE IA group had organized and met organization and volunteer your skills. They have a variety my pastor’s cousin and a bunch of other ladies from NE IA. of needs. Sometimes they need hands-on assistance, and When the fall leadership happened that year, I was asked sometimes it is the little extras you can help with, like to share one thing about the Triennial. I had so many things I school supplies, or Christmas presents for children who had learned. Bless Cecil Maureen, who asked me to share might not receive any, or their very own quilt to take with last. As all the other participants shared things, I eliminated them as they move from place to place, or maybe it is some of the many things I had been thinking about. In the end clothes that fit after a growth spurt, or loss of everything I shared about the people and all the connections they had they owned in a fire, or because they had to leave with each other—sisters, friends, couples, etc. It was only a everything behind when they were removed from an couple of minutes. The next June I arrived at the SWO unsafe environment. Submitted by Anna Jetson gathering and was greeted by some of those many women from NE IA. One said, “The last time I saw you, you were Around the Synod walking off alone to your hotel room and I have been Details about your newly elected President: wondering if you made it. I am glad you did and glad to see Name: Anna Marie Jetson you here.” Member of Highland Lutheran Church, Decorah, Iowa, Now I’m hooked. What’s your story? Do you share how you Upper Iowa River Cluster. got here? Do you share why you participate? What do you get Employment: Lutheran Services in Iowa, Family, Safety, out of coming to gatherings and doing the work you do? Feel Risk and Permanency in the Decorah location. (However, free to share with all of us on Facebook. If you are not a I must say, I spend more time in my 4 wheeled office, then Facebook user, perhaps you would be willing to write a letter the actual office) It may sound confusing, but a simple or email and send it with a picture or two to Jan Harbaugh, our explanation is I am an in home worker for the Iowa newsletter editor, and she could share it with us on Facebook. NE IA Women of the ELCA Executive Board Good News Anna Jetson, President Editor Jan Harbaugh 952-240-9569 [email protected] P. O. Box 18, Castalia, IA 52133 563-412-8906 [email protected] Jan Harbaugh, Vice President Articles are due the 1st of the month for the next month's newsletter (e.g. April 1 563-412-8906 [email protected] for May issue). Please put WELCA in your subject line. (You can also send paper copies by “snail” mail.) , Secretary Contact Women of the ELCA at: Beverly Sheridan, Treasurer 773.380.2730 or 800.638.3522, ext. 2730 563-382-9025 [email protected] http://www.womenoftheelca.org/ 701 Serenity Drive 8765 W. Higgins Road Decorah, IA 52101 , IL 60631-4189 NEIA Women of the ELCA website: neiasynod.org/women-of-the-ELCA Living Faith @

————————————————————————————————————————————————————————— Dear Faith Shapers, The month of September indicates it is Autumn. One of the four temperate seasons and, also known as fall, au- tumn marks the transition from summer to winter. The season of leaves chang- ing colors from green to gold and red & eventually falling off the trees. The season of classes starting. The time for fall events at school to begin. The no- ticeably shorter duration of daylight and the cooler temperatures can lead In celebration of the beginning to less outdoor time. Homework, sports of classes, an important event to practices, and evening studies can share the importance of stu- take away from family time unless care is taken to schedule family time dents, teachers, and other together. There are suggestions on the school employees within the next page to assist you with ideas of congregation community can activities. As you plan your time to- be a blessing of the backpacks. gether, take time for your children and make a plan for when they get The blessing includes how God is home for the evening or for the week- being served through their vo- end. Find out about their day, their cation. This recognition of gifts highs & lows. allows support, encouragement, Sue Cira, and prayer for all involved. Student Pastor TEEM

This information is prepared for you by the Northeastern Iowa Synod-Home Life Network for use by families and local congregations. Like our page on Facebook and our posted re- sources will appear in your newsfeed. Our page is Northeastern Iowa Synod Home Life Network ELCA FUN ACTIVITIES FOR FALL There are many activities that parents, grandparents, or other rela- tives can do with children —- either on weekends or during the af- ternoon or evening after school. Scheduling time for any of these activities allows the child special time with an adult.

 Purchase and carve or paint designs on pumpkins.

 Go camping or sleep outside in a tent in the backyard.

 Visit a corn maze - then have a picnic lunch with hot cocoa.

 Play indoor games or put puzzles together on a rainy day.

 Go on a hayride - followed by campfire songs & s’mores.

 Rake together a large pile of leaves then jump in it.

 Bob for apples - or make caramel apples or apple pie.

 Go out and enjoy a movie night - with popcorn!

 Attend a fall festival & play games & paint your face.

 Enjoy a sunset then stay out and watch the stars

APPLES CAMPFIRE

FAMILY

SUNSET