JANUARY 2016 • Volume 29, Issue 1

Northeastern Iowa JANUARY 2016 • Volume 29, Issue 1

Evangelical Lutheran Church in America

Celebrating Renewal:Star St. Elizabeth of Hungary — Service A life of privilege creates a legacy of service by Marcia Hahn

The stories about Mike and Marge McCoy Family St. Elizabeth of Distinguished Chair in Luther Hungary have been Heritage and Mission. “Elizabeth, handed down for though, was influenced by St. Fran- 800 years, recount- cis of Assisi who had a heart for ing her unwaver- serving the poor and needy. She was ing devotion to married to the ruler of Thuringia, the poor and the yet she expressed herself by feeding sick, her deep the hungry and building a hospital.” Kit Kleinhans religious faith in God, and a few tales of miracles. During Ludwig’s travels as a ruler, She lived to only age 24, but her he left Elizabeth in control of his good works and humble life in the finances and household. She used early 13th century endeared her to this opportunity to distribute alms those she served then and inspire to help the poor and share bread public charitable services today. from the castle with hundreds of poor and hungry people each day. Born the daughter of King Andrew She built a 28-bed hospital at the II of Hungary in 1207, Eliza- foot of the castle where she person- beth was betrothed in marriage ally helped care for those who were This statue of St. Elizabeth of Hungary with at age four and sent to live with afflicted with leprosy and other ill- a basket of roses stands near the Wartburg the Thuringian court at Wartburg nesses. Castle, above the site where Elizabeth Castle in Eisenach to be educated. established her first hospital. From an early age her religious “Elizabeth would only have had to devotion was evident as she spent step out the front gate of the castle >> Continued on page 2 many hours in prayer and pious to be among people who were less observances. At age 14, she mar- fortunate,” Kleinhans said. “The ried Ludwig IV of Thuringia, and notion of bringing those people to- In This Issue their happy union produced three gether to be tended to and well fed was a remarkable commitment to children. With her husband’s bless- A life of privilege creates a living out her faith.” 1 ing and support, Elizabeth used her legacy of service status and wealth to feed the poor Ludwig died of the plague while on and tend to the sick. a crusade, and Elizabeth’s in-laws 3 We are church together “It was a time when noble families exiled her from the castle. A widow 4 Rural Ministry Conference assumed that their position was at age 20, Elizabeth and her chil- God given and if they had a lot, dren were forced into poverty wan- 6 Decorah coalition helps that was how God wanted it,” said dering the streets. Elizabeth moved immigrants pursue citizenship Kit Kleinhans, Wartburg College to Marburg, Germany, where she Congregations professor of religion who holds the lived an austere life under the guid- 7 8 Prayer Calendar A life of privilege creates a legacy of service << Continued from page 1 ance of a severe spiritual advisor. in Europe and the She built a hospital at Marburg and U.S. carry the St. continued to serve the poor and sick Elizabeth name. until her death. “It is great to have motivation and to “From our position of privilege, help others, but to create a real and we, too, can help others who are lasting change re- less fortunate.” quires a lot more,” Kleinhans said. “Eliz- abeth did that, and we continue to do Stories of miracles have always that as Lutherans.” been associated with St. Elizabeth and are depicted in paintings, Kleinhans cites Lu- stained glass, and statues in Ger- theran World Relief, many and Eastern Europe. One Lutheran Services in famous story was the miracle of America, and the Lu- roses, in which Elizabeth was carry- theran women who ing bread smuggled from the castle make quilts as part kitchen to give to the poor. She ran of a bigger mission into her husband who asked to see as examples of living what she was carrying under her faith in the world. cloak. He turned back the cloth and “From our position a bouquet of roses was revealed. of privilege, we, too, can help others who St. Elizabeth of Hungary is depicted in paintings, statues and Another story tells how Elizabeth are less fortunate.” stained glass artwork around the world. This painting of “The helped a man who was dying of lep- Charity of St. Elizabeth of Hungary” is by Edmund Leighton rosy by bringing him into the castle St. Elizabeth lived at (1853-1922). and laying him in Ludwig’s bed. Wartburg Castle 300 Upon Ludwig’s return to the castle, years before Martin cause she was born into a life of he ripped off the covers and saw the Luther and the reformation, but she privilege, but she wasn’t limited by crucified Christ. is celebrated as part of the renewal that,” Kleinhans said. “She wanted because she lived the kind of life of to help others who were less for- “One of the challenges about some- service that Lutherans value. tunate, and she packed a lot into a one from this long ago is that we very short life.” don’t know how accurate all of the “Elizabeth is a great example be- stories about her are,” Kleinhans said. “What we do know is that Eliz- abeth was canonized as a saint just four years after her death, so she Day of Renewal to feature St. Elizabeth clearly had a powerful impact on people at that time to have had that Rostered leaders can learn more about the service ministry of St. Elizabeth of much support for sainthood.” Hungary at this year’s Day of Renewal. The event is set for Thursday, March 17, at Nazareth Lutheran, Cedar Falls. Elizabeth worked to improve people’s lives, and building hospitals Watch for more information in upcoming issues of the Star newsletter and on created a way to serve people long the synod website. after she was gone. Many hospitals

2 Northeastern Iowa Synod | www.neiasynod.org Bishop We are church together The surgeon had decided that this simple, yet my father needed surgery as soon “There was a bond that only profound state- as possible. That meant that the ment describing surgery would be the next day at the they could experience.” the identity of end of a long day. the Evangeli- cal Lutheran My mother waited patiently, as a Church in spouse and good nurse would. At 11 I have never experienced anything America, we p.m., she finally allowed me to call quite like it before. Everything will experience down to the surgical recovery area. changed. The nurses embraced her. a bond and purpose not unlike what Permission was given to go back They talked a language that only my mother experienced that late and see my father, though he had the nurses understood. There was night. not yet come out of the anesthesia. a bond that only they could experience. They were nurses. We are church. We are Lutheran. Two nurses came to get us. I men- We are church together. We are tioned that my mother was a nurse We are church. We are Lutherans. church for the sake of the world. and that she had graduated from We are church together. We are the nursing school of the hospital church together for the sake of the — Steven L. Ullestad that was caring for her husband. world. As we continue to grow into Bishop, Northeastern Iowa Synod

Where do our offerings go? In 2014, members of nearly 10,000 congregations in the United States and Caribbean gave $1.8 billion in regular offerings to support ELCA ministries. Those gifts helped grow the ELCA in the United States and grow the Lutheran church around the world. The funds help support and develop current and future leaders in the ELCA, support churchwide ministries, address social issues, and more.

A new poster illustrating how gifts to the ELCA are used is available for congregations. The posters are free and can be mailed to congregations requesting them. To order, contact Pastor Mark Anderson, assistant to the Bishop, 319-352-1414 or ander- [email protected].

JANUARY 2016 3 Conference to focus on rural ministries

Rural Ministry Conference March 6-8, 2016 Dubuque, Iowa

The 35th annual Rural Ministry Conference is set for March 6-8 in Dubuque. Sponsored by Wartburg Theological Seminary and the Center for Theology and Land, the event will focus on “Life Changing Ministry in the Small Membership Congregation.”

Keynote speakers are the Rev. Elizabeth Dilley, who serves on the ministry team at the national offices of the United Church of Christ, and The Rev. James M. Childs, Jr., Ph.D., who is a professor emeritus of theology at Trinity Lutheran Seminary in Columbus, Ohio. Samuel Giere will be the Bible study leader. by Monday, Feb. 8. The standard registration rate is due WORKSHOPS Monday, Feb. 29: $185 for one person or $165 per person Six workshops are planned for Monday afternoon: for two or more. Pastors who have been serving a rural Two-Minute Testimonies congregation for less than five years save $50. Participants Dilley will present creative techniques to share powerful also have the option to register for just the Monday after- stories of life-changing ministry. noon workshops for $50 per person.

Responsible Conversations: Safe Place/Difficult Topics To learn more or to download a brochure and registration Childs will present strategies for responsible, respectful form, visit www.wartburgseminary.edu/learningforlife/ and honest conversations on tough subjects. learning-for-life-events/rural-ministry-conference or call 563-589-0273. Sacrifice the Sacred Cow Syd Brinkman of St. James, Allison, will share new ideas to enliven women’s ministries and women’s study groups. Northeastern Iowa Synod Forming and Transforming Our Lives with Spiritual Bishop Rev. Dr. Steven L. Ullestad – [email protected] Practices Assistants to the Bishop The Rev. Dr. Martha Brunell will discuss the fundamentals Rev. Mark A. Anderson – [email protected] of all spiritual practices for nurturing ongoing formation. Rev. Stephen Brackett – [email protected] Linda J. Hudgins – [email protected] ELCA Director for Evangelical Mission Resilience and Joy Over the Long Haul: Spiritual Practices Rev. Joelle Colville-Hanson – [email protected] in Ministry Star Editor Marcia Hahn – [email protected] Brunell will share how spiritual practices can strengthen and renew ministries. The Star is published 11 times a year by the Northeastern Iowa Synod, 201 20th Street SW, PO Box 804, Waverly, IA 50677-0804; www.neiasynod.org, phone 319-352-1414, FAX 319-352-1416. Cross-training Leaders for Service in Rural Churches and Send news for the February issue to Marcia Hahn by Jan. 11. We Communities welcome story ideas related to the 2016 theme, “Celebrating Renewal: The Rev. John Paulson will present ways to support and St. Elizabeth of Hungary – Service.” encourage congregation members to be involved in both Articles in this newsletter may be duplicated for the church and the wider community. use in synod congregations and organizations, with credit to the Star newsletter.

Registration for the conference is limited to the first 200 Please notify the synod office with name and people and includes lunches and dinners. The early bird address changes. To receive an electronic version of the Star, rather than paper, send your request rate is $170 each or $150 per person for two or more, due to [email protected]. www.neiasynod.org

4 Northeastern Iowa Synod | www.neiasynod.org New Year, New Start for Healthy Living Safeguarding God’s The 2016 Mayo Clinic Health Assessment is available for Portico Children health plan members and spouses to Sunday, Feb. 21, 2016 take starting Jan. 1. 1:30 – 4:30 p.m., St. Paul, Postville

This year, Portico invites people This free training session pro- with ELCA-Primary health benefits vides information to help church to make a lifestyle change that lasts. staff and volunteers learn how to In the past, members have been re- protect the children they know warded for trying a 4 – 6 week activi- and care for in their personal ty after taking the health assessment. lives and in their church minis- This year there is no prescribed ac- Option A: Strengthen Your Health tries. tivity. You can decide what you want Commit to making a change to im- to change and the specific steps you To register, call 563-864-7643. prove your physical and emotion- want to take to earn wellness dollars. al health. Earn $250 wellness dol- Assess Your Physical and Emotional lars when you achieve, maintain, and Health — Earn $150 report that change on Mayo Clinic Take the Mayo Clinic Health Healthy Living online. Assessment and earn $150 wellness Video gives advice Option B: Strengthen Our Community dollars. Act by April 30 to help this If you’re someone who’s made and synod move closer to earning a one on holiday stress demonstrated over time a commit- percent discount on ELCA health con- ment to caring for yourself, physi- Our own Pastor Steve Brackett, tributions. cally and emotionally, share how you assistant to the Bishop, is fea- Work to Create Change — Earn $250 did it with other members. Earn $250 tured in the online “Surviving To earn additional wellness dollars, wellness dollars when you complete Bad Holiday Special” video dis- choose one of two options below Portico’s “I’m Living Well” survey cussing how to survive the pres- that best fits your needs and com- and report taking it on Mayo Clinic sures of the holidays. Surviving plete it by Nov. 30 to earn the rest of Healthy Living online. Bad is a video series on the MC22 your wellness dollars — for a total of YouTube Channel which explores Get started at https://myportico.por- $400. ways to handle difficult issues. ticobenefits.org. View the video at www.neiasynod.org/event. Lenten Devotional from Augsburg Fortress Bearing Fruit: Devotions for Lent 2016 This full-color devotional from Augsburg Fortress takes you through Lent with daily readings from Colossians. Each reading is accompanied by a photo, quote, reflection, and prayer. Itis available in pocket-sized and large print editions. An eBook will be available by mid-January.

The authors are David L. Miller, senior pastor of St. Timothy Lutheran Church, Naperville, Ill.; Anne Edison-Albright, pastor of Redeemer Lutheran Church, Stevens Point, Wis.; and Harvard Stephens, Jr., dean of the chapel and pastor to the community at the Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago.

The price is $2 each for orders up to 99; $1.50 each for orders of 100 or more. Large print editions are $5 each. Order online at www.augsburgfortress.org.

JANUARY 2016 5 Decorah coalition helps immigrants pursue citizenship

A group of faith-based organizations “We began to talk about immigra- give families a means to pay for ad- from Decorah is helping area immi- tion with people from other con- ditional expenses related to the im- grant families begin the legal pro- gregations and the Northeast Iowa migration process. The interest-free cess to become American citizens. Peace and Justice Center, and we loans of one thousand dollars or The “Path to Citizenship” coalition realized that the greatest expense less can help families with applica- works in partnership with Justice for these families is the legal costs tion fees, travel expenses, required For Our Neighbors (JFON), a na- of immigration,” said David Judisch, physicals, and other legal costs. tional immigration ministry of the a coalition representative from United Methodist Church, to pro- Good Shepherd. “Other organiza- The coalition raised $11,000 dur- vide free legal clinics in Decorah tions do a great job assisting fami- ing its first year, primarily through for those seeking a path to residen- lies with food, clothing and shel- grants and donations from its mem- cy or citizenship in Northeast Iowa. ter, but we felt we needed to be able bers and other groups and individu- to bring an immigration lawyer to als from the community. This year Northeastern Iowa to help.” the coalition seeks to raise $14,000 to increase the frequency of the A member from First United clinics and to cover the costs for the Methodist shared about the JFON immigration attorney. ministry, and the coalition fol- lowed up with the Iowa board for Judisch says that there are numer- JFON to establish Decorah as one ous ways that congregations and in- of six sites in Iowa to offer free le- dividuals of the Northeastern Iowa gal clinics through the ministry. Synod can support the coalition — Since September 2014, five clinics share about it in newsletters, invite have been offered at First United a speaker to their churches, desig- Methodist where a JFON immigra- nate a special mission offering, pray tion attorney has helped 72 indi- for the volunteers and families, or viduals who have come from 10 dif- share bilingual skills as a clinic vol- ferent countries. Five clinics are unteer. scheduled for 2016. Congregations “We depend on faith constituencies Eight Decorah groups comprise from the coalition take turns pro- for the broadest part of our help,” the Path to Citizenship coali- viding hospitality and food for the Judisch said. tion: Good Shepherd Lutheran, families attending the clinics. In ad- First Lutheran, Luther College dition, volunteers – many of whom People can refer local immigrant Student Congregation, First United are bilingual – help with the intake families to a clinic by calling JFON Methodist, Congregational United of background information from at 515-255-9809. Speakers can be Church of Christ, Unitarian families for the attorney to use dur- arranged by calling Judisch at 563- Universalist Fellowship, St. ing their appointments. 380-7707. Benedict Catholic Community, and the Northeast Iowa Peace and Beyond the JFON clinics, the co- Justice Center, Inc. alition has provided families with transportation to required court in- LEGAL AID CLINICS The coalition formed in 2013 after terviews and appearances in Omaha Jan. 8-9, 2016 Good Shepherd Lutheran received and Des Moines, helped find legal March 11-12, 2016 a request to help an undocumented guardians for six unaccompanied May 6-7, 2016 father, his wife who was unable to minors, and arranged for a Catholic Aug. 26-27, 2016 Nov. 4-5, 2016 work, and their four children. Good Charities counselor for families. In Shepherd members soon reached addition, the coalition has designat- Clinics take place at First United out to other faith-based groups for ed a $5,000 donation from Catholic Methodist, Decorah. Call 515-255- additional help. Charities for a “microloan fund” to 9809 to schedule an appointment.

6 Northeastern Iowa Synod | www.neiasynod.org Events Congregations

JANUARY EVENTS ORDAINING 1 Office Closed, New Year’s Day Joel H. Becker, Trinity, New Hampton, Dec. 19 7 Meeting, Interim Colleague Group, 9:30-11:30 a.m. 7 Meeting, Youth Ministry Network, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., INSTALLING Trinity, Mason City Rev. Joel Becker, St. John (Buck Creek), Sumner & 9 Meeting, Treasurers, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Redeemer, St. Peter, Oran, Jan. 10 Waverly 16 Meeting, Synodical Women’s Organization Board and Clusters, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. INTERVIEWING 18 Office Closed, Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Arlington, One in Faith Parish (staff) 23 Snow Date: SWO & Clusters Lake Mills, Salem 24 Meeting, LYON, 2-5 p.m., Synod Office Strawberry Point, Emanuel, Rev. Jim Adix, interim Waterloo, St. Ansgar, Rev. Alan Schulz, interim West Union, Zion FEBRUARY EVENTS 4 Meeting, Interim Colleague Group, 9:30-11:30 a.m. SELF-STUDY 5-8 Event, Extravaganza 2016, Anaheim, Calif. Allison, St. James 9 Meeting, Assembly Planning Committee, 4-6 p.m., Alta Vista, Zion and Lawler, Immanuel (Crane Creek), Wartburg College Rev. Vincent Fricke, interim 11 Meeting, Endowment Fund Investment Committee, Belmond, St. Olaf; Coulter, Nazareth; and Hampton, 9-10:30 a.m. St. John’s (New Hope Parish) 14 Assembly, Three River Conference, 2-4 p.m., St. Calmar, Calmar and Decorah, Springfield, Rev. Phillip Peter, Rockwell Olson, interim 19-21 Event, “One Year to Live” Men’s Retreat, Ewalu, Charles City, St. John, Rev. Bill Odermann, interim Strawberry Point Clermont, West Clermont 21 Event, Safeguarding God’s Children, 1:30-4:30 Cresco, First p.m., St. Paul, Postville Decorah, Decorah (staff) 21 Meeting, LYON, 2-5 p.m., Synod Office Decorah, Luther College (staff) 26-27 Retreat, Candidacy, American Martyrs, Cedar Decorah, St. John’s and Hauge Falls Decorah, Washington Prairie, Rev. April Larson, interim Dubuque, Holy Trinity, Rev. Lanny Westphal, interim MARCH EVENTS Elgin, Elgin & Elkader, Highland Frederika, St. John 3 Meeting, Interim Colleague Group, 9:30-11:30 a.m. Greene, St. Peter, Rev. Irving Sandberg, interim 3 Meeting, Youth Ministry Network, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., Hampton, St. Paul Holy Trinity, Dubuque Hawkeye, Trinity, Rev. David R. Nelson, interim 5 Meeting, Synodical Women’s Organization Board, Jesup, American, Rev. Tom Jones, interim 9 a.m.-1 p.m. La Porte City, Zion (Jubilee) 12 Meeting, Synod Council, 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Mason City, St. Paul 13 Meeting, LYON, 2-5 p.m., Synod Office Osage, Our Savior’s (staff) 17 Event, Day of Renewal, 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m., Nazareth, Postville, St. Paul, Rev. John Gannett, interim Cedar Falls Sumner, St. John, Rev. Norman Bauer, interim 19 Snow Date: SWO Board (from March 5) Waterloo, Our Savior’s 19 Meeting, Resolutions Committee, 9:30-11:30 a.m. Waverly, Bartels Lutheran Retirement Center 25 Office Closed, Good Friday Waverly, Redeemer, Rev. Nancy Larson, interim Waverly, St. Paul APRIL EVENTS 7 Meeting, Interim Colleague Group, 9:30-11:30 a.m. ROSTER CHANGES 7 Meeting, Youth Ministry Network, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., Rev. Peter Soli, transferred to Southeastern Minnesota TBA Synod 10-12 Event, First Call Theological Education Spring Rev. Steven Winsor, transferred to Florida-Bahamas Synod Retreat, American Martyrs, Cedar Falls 12 Meeting, Assembly Planning, Wartburg College, 4-6 p.m. 17 Meeting, LYON, 2-5 p.m., Synod Office 25 Meeting, Home Life Network, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

JANUARY 2016 7 Prayer CALENDAR JANUARY 2016 SUN MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT Ewalu Camp & Janet Benson, Retreat Center, Cedar Falls Strawberry Point 1 2 Rev. Eric W. Rev. Kathleen J. Rev. Matthew L. Biedermann, Graves, Mason City Ingham/Okoboji Larson, Decorah Cedar Falls Rev. Gary C. Rev. Robert C. Lutheran Bible Camp, Rev. Michael L. Rev. Ruth Ann Heidt-Johnson, St. James, Allison Gremmels, Waverly Milford Sherer, Waverly Shriver, Cedar Falls Waterloo Zion, Alta Vista 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 Lutheran Lakeside Rev. Eugene Camp Assoc., Immanuel (Crane Riverside Bible Camp Shalom, Ketterling, Waverly Spirit Lake Creek), Lawler Camp, Story City St. John, Arlington Davenport St. Paul, Aurora 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 Middle East ISU Lutheran Rev. Luther H. Univ. of Iowa Campus Ministry, Rev. Adam T. Rev. Kurt A. Hansen, Thoresen, Grundy Rev. Lois D. Knutson, Campus Ministry, Ames Starrett, Roland Dubuque St. Olaf, Belmond Center Duluth, Minn. Iowa City 17 18 19 20 21 22 23

UNI Lutheran Rev. Nancy J. Larson, Campus Ministry, Christian Crusaders, Grand University, Trinity, Belmond Waverly Cedar Falls Calmar, Calmar Cedar Falls Springfield, Decorah Des Moines 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

Zion, Castalia 31

Registration still open Pre-Retirement Seminar Get Answers to Retirement Planning Questions for Men’s Retreat Monday, Jan. 25, 2016 Lutheran School of Theology, Chicago One Year to Live Retreat Feb. 19-21, 2016 This pre-retirement seminar is hosted by Portico and a Camp Ewalu, Strawberry Point certified Ernst & Young planner who will answer questions about retirement planning. Men of all ages can still register early for the “One Year to Live” The seminar runs from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Cost is $35 per men’s retreat set for Feb. 19-21 at person and $70 per couple, which includes breakfast, Ewalu Camp and Retreat Center, Strawberry Point. lunch, and snacks.

Presented by Lutheran Men in Mission, the OYTL re- Register at https://www.porticobenefits.org/NewsEvents/ treat is an opportunity for men to rethink how they set Events/Pre-RetirementSeminars. their priorities and discover how God has equipped them to live.

Early registration is open through Jan. 20 with a fee of $175. After that date the fee is $200. The fee for men age 18-24 and seminarians is $125.

Learn more and download a registration brochure at https://www.facebook.com/neiasynod www.neiasynod.org/ministries/mens-ministry. January 2016 Volume 29 Good News Number 1

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 human trafficking in Iowa and across the USA on November 9, WHO?? ME??? St. Petri Lutheran Church, Story City, IA, sponsored by the I think I have said these words to God more times than I NEIA Synod? The presenter was Mike Ferjak, B.S., MA, can count. The first time I was only 14 and newly- appointed by Attorney General Miller’s office as the senior confirmed and trying to decide if I should teach the three- member of the human trafficking task force. Forty persons year-old class. Another time I was in college and trying to attended. make a decision on a life mate. Again, when my husband · Human trafficking is “hidden in Iowa” announced he was being called to the seminary and we had · “Operation Detour” is the goal to make Iowa so three young children at home. And then a little later, after inhospitable that traffickers will not want to be here seminary and our first call, a friend told me that during her · The internet is the main means of contact for traffickers prayers that day, my name was being given to her as a · More people enslaved in US today than at any time in candidate for the SWO board in SE Iowa. I eventually said history yes each of these times, even though I had my doubts. · Three-pronged methods for reaching the goal. 1) treatment Perhaps like many of you? Just like you, I wondered if of victims 2) community education 3) enforcement and God really knew what He was getting! I am not the prosecution youngest, or smartest, or wisest, or Biblically literate, · Trafficking is always about money; a $12–$15 billion or...... can you fill in the blank? By the time you read this, industry the SWO board will be preparing to meet with Cluster leaders and working with them to bring God’s kingdom to · Traffickers earn as much as $55,000 weekly, in cash this part of Iowa and the world. Please pray for our time · Victims use the terms “in the life” and “out of the life” together. And the next time you start asking WHO?? · Not “johns,” or “customers,” but hobbiests ME???, remember God’s call is not just for the youngest, · Median ages of girls, 11–14 years; boys 7–11 years; smartest, wisest… New year blessings to all of you! victims last on average 7 years “in the life” Diane Wills · Human trafficking is not the same as human smuggling. Smugglers desired, requested and paid for their choice. Mission Area: Stewardship Once “in the life,” victims have no choices Where Does the Money GO?? What Can We Do? Do you ever wonder what happens to the money · If you see omething suspicious, call 911, and tell the bequeathed to churchwide Women of the ELCA? One of operator what you saw, not what you think. the many uses is scholarships provided to women in · “See Something; Say Something.” financial need. There are a number of scholarships, most · Do not approach victim or trafficker; call 911 or 1- of which are awarded annually. They apply to all levels of 888-373-7888, National Human Trafficking Resource study, undergraduate, graduate, professional and Center vocational. They also apply to many areas including the · There is a difference between “prostitution” and health care field, Christian service, ordained ministry, lay ‘people being prostituted” ministry, general studies, etc. If you know of a woman in · 15 homes in Iowa, 1,200 beds for survivors who are your congregation that could use the help, please have her “out of the life” check out the Women of the ELCA website and search for Submitted by retired pastor, Jane Granzow, Bethany, Iowa scholarships. The churchwide staff is more than willing to Falls. help and so are we at the synodical level. That's a great use for the money!! Submitted by Diane Wills Mission Area: Discipleship Mission Area: Justice Jubilee Cluster Fall Gathering HUMAN TRAFFICKING. What did we learn about Zion Lutheran Church in rural La Porte City hosted a fall CALENDAR 1968 with the purpose to join ministries to support the 2016 churches in the county and help those in need. Today the Jan. 16 SWO Board & Cluster Leaders, boundaries have expanded to include the whole conference. Waverly, 9–3 (snow date Jan. 23) The large number of people they help with food, clothing and Mar. 5 SWO Board, Waverly 9–12 (snow date fuel assistance and those who need help is ever present. Mar. 19) Lynda Akers, president, held a discussion about the Apr. 30 Cluster B Spring Gathering, Zion, cluster’s purpose. Responses included connection and unity, Oelwein fellowship and support, sharing and spreading information from the synod, encouraging others and supporting mission. May 7 LWR Ingathering, Olson Explosives, Missions supported with the offering were Women of the Decorah ELCA, Shepherd of the Hills Holiday Shop, Clayton County May 14 SWO Board at Wartburg 9-12 Food Shelf and trucking expense for quilts. Jun. 17 Pre-convention SWO Board meeting at Hope to see everyone on April 30, 2016 at Zion, Oelwein Wartburg, 5pm at the Spring Gathering! Submitted by Linda Akers Jun. 18 NEIA Women’s Synodical Convention, Wartburg College, Waverly Upper Iowa River Cluster D Fall Gathering Sep. 9–10 Three Rivers Fall Retreat, Camp Ewalu Twenty-six W/ELCA ladies attended the gathering at Winneshiek Winery on Sunday afternoon September 27, 2015. Anna Jetson and Becky Pahl led the Bible Study, WELCA event for Jubilee cluster on October 17th. The "Stitches and Prints," incorporating it with crocheting and focus of the day was showing kindness. We heard their knitting Prayer Shawls. Both novice and veteran crocheters wonderful bell choir, ate delicious bars, and learned about and knitters came and worked on a Prayer Shawl. It was how the organization Joni and Friends provides interesting to see how Scripture and Stitches relate to one wheelchairs to people around the world. Not only was the another. Hopefully, everyone left with a new skill to take church beautiful but the people were welcoming and lovely back to their church and start a new mission of their own! as well! Submitted by, Melissa Miller Submitted by Carol Burnikel

Little Flock Cluster (B) Fall Gathering LWR Ingathering, Decorah Little Flock Cluster (B) enjoyed their Fall Gathering on It was a cold, sunny day on November 7, 2015 when we Oct. 25th at St. Paul, Monona. The theme “Faith Brings Us loaded our LWR donations in a semi donated by Olson Together” was evident throughout the program. St. Paul’s Explosives in Decorah. They then truck it to Minneapolis for provided bell choir music, a funny skit, “Leap of Faith,” us. Upper Iowa River Cluster (D), Shechem Cluster (I) and and a lovely meal with quilted mug coasters as a favor to Little Flock Cluster (B) donated a total of 1,186 quilts, 832 all attending. personal care kits, 863 school kits, 575 baby care kits, 48 Pr. Harold McMillin led devotions, with each getting an fabric kits, 65# of soap and 36 blankets. Our champion unlabeled can of food. The point he made was, if we don't quilters were Zion of West Union for 137 quilts. St. Peters, share our faith with others we are like an unmarked can— Eldorado, put together 235 school kits. A special thank you to no one gets to know us. St. Peters, Eldorado and Greg Hamm and his youth from In the greeting from our shepherdess, Marjorie Lewis, St.Paul’s in Postville for their great help in loading the semi. all were urged to update their constitutions. We will do this all again on May 7, 2016. Submitted by Guest speaker, Jeff Krambeer, Director, Shepherd of the Shirley Steggall, Upper Iowa River Mission Action Chair Hills, shared information about the organization formed in

NEIA Women of the ELCA website: neiasynod.org/womenoftheELCA NEIA Women of the ELCA Treasurer Nancy Poppe Good News 2656 Gilmore Ave. Editor Jan Harbaugh Ionia, IA 50645 P. O. Box 68 641-435-2231 [email protected] Renwick, IA 50577 515-825-8068 [email protected] Contact Women of the ELCA at: 773.380.2730 or 800.638.3522, ext. 2730 Articles are due the 1st of the month for the next month's http://www.womenoftheelca.org/ newsletter (e.g. April 1 for May issue). Please put WELCA 8765 W. Higgins Road in your subject line. (You can also send paper copies by Chicago, IL 60631-4189 “snail” mail.) Living Faith

Dear Faith Shapers, 5 Martin Luther King Jr. I don’t know about you but Values to Instill In Our Kids I am feeling weighed down by all that is happening in our 1) Equality world. It is hard to focus on Martin Luther Kind Jr is most re- membered for leading the civil hope when we hear so much rights movement to end segrega- worry and negativity. How tion. MLK Jr. quote, “I have a can we proclaim God’s mes- dream that my four little children sage of hope and peace in this will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the world? How do we teach our color of their skin, but by the kids to proclaim God’s story content of their character.” of hope and redemption? 2) Faith It’s by how we live. I am MLK Jr. was deeply religious. He was the son of a minister hopeful as I write this newslet- and became a minister. He said, “To be a Christian without ter. You are people who are prayer is no more possible than to be alive without breath- teaching your kids to reflect ing.”

God’s light each day, you are 3) Non-violence teaching kids to change the MLK Jr. said, “Nonviolence is a powerful and just weapon, world, you are passing the which cuts without wounding and ennobles the man who wields it. It is a sword that heals.” faith to the next generation. This is what we do and this is 4) Love who we are. Keep telling MLK Jr. believed love, rather than hatred or violence, is the God’s story, keep serving answer to the world’s problems. He said, “Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive God’s people and keep praying out hate; only love can do that.” for our world. 5) Service O God, grant that your holy MLK Jr. lived a life of service to God and God’s people. He and life-giving spirit may once said, “Everyone has the power for greatness, not for move our hearts to break down fame but greatness, because greatness is determined by barriers that divide us and service.” and “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, what are you doing for others?” give us strength to work to- wards peace and justice in your world. This information is prepared for you by the Northeastern Iowa Synod-Home Life Network

for use by families and local congregations. Lisa Kammerer Like our page on Facebook and our posted resources will appear in your Associate in Ministry newsfeed. Our page is Northeastern Iowa Synod Home Life Network ELCA January 6th is the day of Epiphany. Epiphany is a day and a season of the Church year. On the day of Epiphany we celebrate the Magi visiting Jesus. Epiphany means manifestation and revelation. Epiphany symbols and imag- es include: light, incense, and gift giving. The season of Epiphany begins on January 6th and will last until Ash Wednesday on February 10th. Epiphany is a time to bring gifts to Jesus, whose face we see in people who have needs. Consider serving others as a family. Volunteer at a nursing home, food pan- try, or other community organization that serves. You may even want to give the gift of kindness and focus on Acts of Kindness you can do each day.

Not your typical

Lenten give ups. We give up or add things during Lent to re- Lent and mind us of Christ’s suffering. As we miss those things or are adding new things, we remember Luggage all Christ has done for us. Here are some non- traditional things to give up or add this Lent:  Text four people a day to see if you can Lent is sometimes called a journey or pray for them and then pray for their re- pilgrimage. A journey through Lent to bring us to Easter joy. Most people pack quests a bag to take on a journey. What are the  Pick 4 sets of clothes to wear all of Lent things we need to put in our lent luggage?  Recite a Bible verse before each meal

Prayer? Fasting? Self examination?  Check you phone only 3 times a day Repentance? Reading God’s Word?  Leave a huge tip every time you eat out Daily Devotions? Asking forgiveness? Service? Restarting or returning to a  Post a Bible verse each day on social media discipline?  Leave kind notes of encouragement

 Just as you prepare for a trip, make plans When you buy a treat, buy one for some- with your family as to how you will one else observe Lent together this year. Will you  Go one day a week without make-up give things up together? Add something? Serve together? Read daily devotions?  Use Instagram to take pictures of people Light candles each week of Lent? Read you love and are thankful for the Bible together? Spend time planning and pick one thing to focus on during  Turn off your phone when you are with Lent. your family