The First Word February, 2013 Monthly Newsletter of the First Lutheran Church • Albany, New York • www.FirstLutheranAlbany.org

FLC Sunday School children talk about the 3 Kings arrival on Epiphany Sunday The First Word is the monthly publication of: Thanksgiving for Baptism & subsequent First Lutheran Church sprinkling! 646 State Street—Albany, NY 12203-1217 (518) 463-1326 [email protected] ——————————————— The Rev. Alison L. Leitzel Pastor

Dorothy Johnson Director of Music/Organist

Julie Lind The choir sings by the light of our Epiphany Star! Parish Administrator

Alex Nagy Parish Sexton

———————————————

Church Council Members: Steven B. Carlson, Lay President; Timothy Eskeli, Treasurer; Sandra O’Connor, Secretary; Lisa Rittberger, Finance; Richard Reynders, Worship & Music; Barbara Moms, Kids and Miss Cindy prepping in the kitchen before the Shafarzek, Congregational Annual Lasagna Luncheon fundraiser. Life; Elizabeth Peters, Social Ministry Assisting during communion requires concentration!

Lyle Norton, Financial Secretary Visit our NEW Facebook page and “like” us … https://www.facebook.com/FirstLutheranAlbany February 2013

Dear First Family,

Throughout Epiphany our worship life has been taking us into new ways of seeing. As the baptized children of God, our vision is always Two roads diverged in a wood, and I— being transformed by God’s loving promise and God’s strengthening I took the one less traveled by, presence as we live among God’s faithful people. And that has made all the difference.

The Road Not Taken, Robert Frost But now, midway through February, we begin to sing a different Mountain Interval 1920 tune. Ash Wednesday on February 13 th begins the season of Lent, when we join Jesus on the road to Jerusalem. For Jesus the road to Jerusalem is the road to the cross. How does this Lenten journey –the road to the cross-- impact our lives?

That will be our theme as we travel through Lent. Worship will be shaped a little differently with a focus on confession and on the Kyrie, our singing of “Lord, have mercy.” The view in worship will change with a slightly barer chancel and the purple color of the paraments. Traditionally purple has been considered the color of a more solemn attitude. However with purple being my absolutely favorite color, a color which brings me deep joy, I think of purple as pushing us to the depths and urging us to introspect about our lives.

The preaching theme for the month will begin on Ash Wednesday with Robert Frost’s* The Road Not Taken , or as it is popularly known, The Road Less Traveled . [*This is the poet of which I speak, not our own Bob Frost.] Then from February 17 th , the First Sunday in Lent, through March 24th, Palm / Passion Sunday, we will consider the various signs along the road that warn us or help us as we journey with Jesus to the cross and through life. What signs do you see along the road, and how do they warn or help you as you travel?

From Ash Wednesday, through the 5 Sundays in Lent, and on through Holy Week, we pray for Jesus to always walk with us. This is a holy journey we take together. I am glad to be taking it with you!

Peace & Joy! Pastor Allie

Our first, First @ First is Sanctuary Sound System coming up on Sunday rd March 3 at 4 pm. Last month we discussed meeting with Rick Dalbec of Translation: for the first Dalbec Audio Laboratory regarding a new sound system time we will host a free for the sanctuary. dinner for congregation and neighbors together on the first Sunday of the Rich Reynders and the Worship and Music Team have month at First Lutheran. recommended that the Church Council enter into a contract with Dalbec Audio to install an entire new sound More than feeding the hungry, this neighborhood system. The Church Council did approve this contract at dinner is to be a time for the congregation of First the January 8, 2013 meeting. Lutheran to begin to build relationships with those that live in our neighborhood. This is a chance to enjoy a Dalbec has indicated to Rich Reynders that the new simple meal together and begin to get acquainted. You sound system will be in place before our Easter service. will be hearing more, so mark this date on your calendar, and while you are at it, mark the first Sunday Many thanks to Rich Reynders for his dedication to in April and May as well. We’ll give this a try and see getting this much needed improvement in the sanctuary. how it goes. Page 2 Please Come and Support The Cluster Outreach collection will the Sunday School benefit the victims of Hurricane Sandy Outreach Project

We are collecting items that will be used in All members of First Lutheran Emergency Clean-up Buckets . We appreciate donations of as many of these and St. John’s are invited to come items as possible. The specific items needed are… and enjoy good food, yummy desserts and great fellowship on: Five-gallon buckets with re-sealable lid; scouring

pads ; sponges (assorted sizes); scrub brushes ; February 3rd: cleaning towels (reusable, like Easy Wipes®); 50-78 The Annual oz. box dry laundry detergent ; 12 oz. bottles of SouperBowl liquid concentrated household cleaner (like Lysol®); Sunday Soup 25 oz. bottles liquid disinfectant dish soap (like Luncheon Dawn®); packages of 48-50 clothespins ; Clothesline (two 50 ft. or one 100 ft.); dust masks ; latex gloves The children and parents of the (like Playtex®); work gloves ; 28-bag roll of heavy- Sunday School programs at First duty trash bags (30-45 gallon); 6-9 oz. bottle of Lutheran and St. John’s Lutheran insect repellent (pump, drops or lotion, not aerosol). will come together to sponsor this outreach event. A Free will offering Place these items in the marked collection bin in the hallway of Friendship will be received to benefit the Sr. House. If you have any questions, please contact Liz Peters. Maureen Joyce Center Soup Kitchen located on Livingston Thank you in advance for your generous donations. Avenue.

Albany Lutheran Cluster Let’s Get Involved!! Did you know…. ⇒ That Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Loudonville has a Men’s Breakfast at 8:00 am on the 1 st and 3 rd Saturday of each month and this breakfast is open to ALL men in ALL churches in the Cluster ?

⇒ That First Lutheran Church in Albany has a group called “Craft and Conversation” that meets from 2:00-4:00 on the 1 st Saturday of each month in the Hartwick Lounge and is open to ALL members in ALL churches in the Cluster who are interested in making/designing craft projects? It is a group that is diverse in ages as well as ability and type of crafts .

⇒ That Holy Spirit Lutheran Church in Albany has a women’s group, the Mary/Ruth Circle that meets on the 3 rd Thursday of the month from 10:00 am – 2:00 pm and is open to ALL women in ALL churches in the Cluster? The women work on Cluster Social Ministry Projects, Synod Projects, or other designated projects followed by lunch, fellowship and devotions .

⇒ That Holy Spirit Lutheran Church also has a Koinonia Group that meets at 6:30 on the 2 nd and 4 th Mondays of the month and this group is open to ALL members of ALL churches in the Cluster ? The group begins with a simple meal and fellowship followed by brief worship and then spends the bulk of their time sharing and talking about faith questions .

⇒ That St. John’s Lutheran Church offers an opportunity for weekly worship at 5:00 pm on Saturdays at their cemetery chapel at 303 Sand Creek Road in Colonie (1 mile east of Wolf Road).

⇒ That St. Paul’s Lutheran Church is always looking for a "few good people" to help "Welcome the Stranger" in our midst - the more than 3000 seafarers who arrive in the Port of Albany each year- via the Albany Maritime Ministry. It is a very good venue to do overseas ministry and sleep in your own bed. Free Training! Interested? Contact St. Paul's Lutheran Church - 463-0571.

Page 3 Mexican Lasagna SouperBowl of Caring Serves: 4 Sunday at First Lutheran This was a big hit at the lasagna luncheon on January 13th, so we asked the chef to share the recipe!

Ingredients 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 2 pounds ground chicken breast, available in the packaged meats case 2 tablespoons chili powder 2 teaspoons ground cumin 1/2 red onion, chopped 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained 1 cup medium heat taco sauce or 1 (14-oz) can stewed or fire roasted tomatoes Our youth will hold soup pots at 1 cup frozen corn kernels church doors on Souper Bowl of Salt Caring Sunday, February 3rd, 2013 . 8 (8 inch) spinach flour tortillas, available on dairy aisle of market 2 1/2 cups shredded Cheddar or shredded pepper jack They will join young people in 2 scallions, finely chopped churches across the country to collect money for those who are Directions hungry and hurting. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F.

Preheat a large skillet over medium high heat. Add 2 tablespoons extra- In 2010, $10 million was virgin olive oil - twice around the pan. Add chicken and season with chili collected by Souper Bowl of Caring powder, cumin, and red onion. Brown the meat, 5 minutes. Add taco participants for local charities. All of sauce or stewed or fire roasted tomatoes. Add black beans and corn. the money collected is donated to a Heat the mixture through, 2 to 3 minutes then season with salt, to your charity selected by the participant - taste. none of the money is sent to the Coat a shallow baking dish with remaining extra-virgin olive oil, about 1 Souper Bowl of Caring tablespoon oil. Cut the tortillas in half or quarters to make them easy to headquarters. Organizers only ask layer with. Build lasagna in layers of meat and beans, then tortillas, then that each participant report their cheese. Repeat: meat, tortilla, cheese again. Bake lasagna 12 to 15 collection so national totals can be minutes until cheese is brown and bubbly. Top with the scallions and serve. determined and announced.

Good Food Since the Souper Bowl of Caring Great Fellowship began in 1990, more than $71 million has gone to help people in Members of FLC need. Please support the youth of enjoying a wonderful our church in this effort to “love Lasagna Lunch hosted our neighbors” by dropping your by the Sunday School Children of First dollar in the soup pot on Lutheran and St. John’s February 3rd. Lutheran.

Page 4 Aidan Rose, grandson of Eve and Lyle Norton , and a senior at Newton (MA) South High School will be an exchange student to Beijing, China for the next four months. He has been studying Mandarin Chinese since the sixth grade; he and his fellow participants in the program took an intensive course this past summer to enhance their verbal skills in Chinese.

He is excited about the opportunity and looks forward, among other things, to taking advantage of his interest in photography to document the experience.

Currently a Chinese student is residing with Aidan and his family as a part of the same program. Upstate NY Synod Assembly Request Front row: Sandy O’Connor, Mildred Logan, Katie O’Connor Back row: Neil O’Connor, Betsey & Brian Franz, Neil O’Connor Please begin to save and collect drink tabs (pop-tops) now for Pastor and the FLC delegates to bring On December 8, 2012, Betsey O’Connor, daughter of to the Annual Synod Assembly in June. The pop-tops FLC brings to Synod Assembly will be added to pop-tops from all Sandy and Neil, granddaughter of Francis and Mildred the churches in our Synod and then donated to Ronald Logan was married to Brian Franz in our sanctuary. All McDonald House Charities. our guests complemented us on our beautiful church. The entire day was perfect. We want to wish Betsey and Collecting pop tabs is a great way to teach kids about Brian many, many years of happiness. We also want to philanthropy and the importance of recycling, and raise funds thank all those who decorated the sanctuary. It looked to help children and their families at the same time. Some awesome! Chapters of the Ronald McDonald House Charities raise ~ Sandy and Neil O’Connor thousands of dollars with their pop tab collections.

Ronald McDonald Houses collect pop tabs instead of entire aluminum cans because it's more hygienic to store tabs than cans, and collection and storage is easier. The program Dear Friends, is an easy way for people of all ages to support RMHC and Thank you for all of the wonderful know they are making a difference for families and children. Christmas things that were sent to

After the tabs are collected, the RMHC Chapter brings the me. The flowers, delicious cookies collection to local recycling centers, where they are weighed and lovely cards helped to make my to determine their value (values can vary significantly). The holidays a joy. recycling center then sends that RMHC Chapter a check for And then there was Pastor Allie and her chorus singing the total value. Christmas carols, and of course I joined in loving every minute of it. Even my neighbor enjoyed the carols. Did you ever think it could be so easy to help families in need? I wish everyone at First Lutheran a happy, healthy New Year and I pray that all of your efforts and hard work to be Please use a plastic grocery or Ziploc bag for your accomplished in the new year will meet your goals. collection, bring them to church and place them in the box under the table in the office. God Bless You, Lois Skuse Page 5 Support from community partners like First Lutheran Church enables Senior Services to continue to meet our mission; to improve and enhance the quality of life for Dear Friends at First Lutheran, FOCUS Winter Breakfast serves a all older adults, both the well and hot meal and a bag lunch to over the frail, by encouraging their On behalf of the Protestant 130 men, women and children, independence and personal Campus Ministry at the University three mornings a week, through freedom. We appreciate your of Albany, I want to thank you for the coldest months of the year. assistance and look forward to a

your recent donation of $200.00 continued partnership. Along with these programs, the for our Mission Trip Fund. FOCUS Advocates, members and Thank you on behalf of the Over the last five years, we have friends from a variety of faith people we serve for making Senior completed nine trips to New communities, work to address the Services of Albany recipients of this Orleans and last year we traveled systemic issues of hunger and donation. to Birmingham, Alabama to work poverty. We continue to advocate on rebuilding after the devastating a Farm Bill that strengthens the Sincerely, tornadoes. SNAP (food stamp) program and a Teresa M. Riley

This year, we’ve located a new wage that will become a living Interim Director of Development site for our work. We will be wage for all low income New Yorkers. traveling to Austin, Texas to work with Faith Village to rebuild homes We begin the new year inspired Thank You by your participation in this destroyed by wildfires. We will be Chris! traveling January 13-19, 2013. We valuable work. As these difficult thank you for making it possible by economic times continue, adopting our students! especially for the poorest of our

Please continue to remember us neighbors, we are grateful for your in your prayers as we make plans support. We truly are in this for our journey together. together – finding ways to meet

needs, show mercy, act justly and In Christ, bring God’s hope to one another.

Rev. Sandy J. Damhof Campus Minister In unity, Dear Friends, Rev. Debra Jameson The staff and patients of the Dear Friends, Dir. Community Ministry Stratton VA Medical Center wish to express their sincere appreciation to

you for the donation of the On behalf of the many Dear Ms. Peters: poinsettias for our Veterans. families in Albany who

On behalf of the Board, staff and utilize the food For us at the VA Medical Center, clients of Senior Services, I would programs provided by every day is Veterans Day and we try FOCUS, we thank you like to thank First Lutheran Church to create a warm, caring environment for your end of the year donation for the generous donation of $200 for our patients to make their stay as of $200. that was generously awarded to comfortable as possible.

The FOCUS Interfaith Food Pantry Senior Services of Albany to continues to serve unprecedented support our Meals on Wheels Than you for remembering our needs, serving over 375 families program. These funds will enable Veterans in such a thoughtful way. each month with groceries, us to continue to respond to the personal care items, fresh produce increased demand for preparation Sincerely, James J. Keller, Jr. and dairy products. and delivery of food through our Meals on Wheels program. Voluntary Services Officer Page 6 Dear friends: Dear Members of the First Lutheran Church Congregation;

On behalf of the Capital Area Thank you for your donation of $200.00 Council of Churches, I would like to made on 12/26/2012. We have been providing thank you for the very generous programs and services for homeless individuals gift of $4,000, designated for the and families since 1984. Thank you for making Emergency Overflow Homeless the decision to support our mission and help our Shelter at First Lutheran Church. It community. With your help we are able to is only through the prayers and continue making a difference. financial support of many We are embarking on projects such as: individuals, congregations ∗ Building additional homes for homeless families (especially yours!), and groups that ∗ Purchasing a building that will become a temporary home for we are able to carry out this homeless individuals and families in Amsterdam, NY ministry. ∗ Enhancing our summer youth program with more activities, providing more lunches and educational field trips. We opened the Shelter on We thank you for helping us reach our goals and we hope the November 1 and plan to operate congregation of First Lutheran Church will increase their involvement through April. Due to the throughout the year. continuing increase in homelessness and the If members of your congregation are interested in visiting Interfaith unpredictable winter weather of Partnership for the Homeless, please contact us to arrange for a tour. We’d this region, we expect another enjoy showing you how your donations help the guests staying in our busy year. We have 19 beds and Emergency Shelter and Sheridan Hollow Drop-In Center. anticipate that most of them will Thank you again for your wonderful donation. We are truly thankful for be occupied each night. That has your support. certainly been the case these past few weeks! Sincerely, Janine Robitaille , Executive Director We very much appreciate your Bonnie St. Onge , Director of Development support. Your gift helps provide Interfaith Partnership for the Homeless our guests with a hot meal, clean clothing, toiletries, a safe place to sleep and referrals to appropriate services. Thank you for helping us share God’s love with those who are often left out in the cold in more ways than one.

Gratefully, Rev. Vernon A. Victorson Interim Executive Director.

ATTENTION Here is a list of current needs for the Shelter :

Clothing : winter coats and jackets for men, hats/gloves; new thermal and regular underwear; t-shirts, and socks

Supplies : coffee, powdered creamer, sugar, juice, cereal, snacks; sturdy paper plates, eating utensils, paper cups (for hot drinks) Page 7 Thank You Everyone!!! Pray First

How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of the messenger who announces peace, who brings good news, who announces salvation, who says to Zion, "Your God reins." Isaiah 52:2 I want to thank EVERYONE who helped and supported the children's At our recent staff meeting, we outreach lasagna lunch. We raised prayed for your congregation and $461.00 thanks to all those its rostered and lay leaders along generous donations! The selection with those in your conference. (and flavors) of lasagna were awesome this year, from Italian to May God bless our partnership in Mexican to vegetarian to all things the Gospel ministry. in between! The staff of the Upstate New York Thank you to our chefs: Barbara Synod: Marie Jerge, Gregory Shafarzek, Lisa Rittberger, Julie Lind, Tennerman, Pr. Judith, Neal, Dave, Kim Paonessa, Judy Carlson, Kelly Chuck, Karen, Mary, and Patsy Mack, and Pastor Allie. We had a wonderful array of desserts as well! Being a Lutheran Christian Our bakers included Karen Conklin, in Albany in 2013 Liz Peters, Jan Frost, Ann Erling, and

some from St. John's too! Pr Allie invites you to join her

following worship on three Sundays Thank you to the parents of our for a short overview on being a students for their consistent help Lutheran Christian in Albany in 2013. and support in our Sunday School While planned as a class for endeavors. I hope I haven't missed potential new members for First anyone! If I have, my apologies. Lutheran, this is a great opportunity

for those who have recently become I also want to thank EVERYONE members or those who are long who offered to help and all those time members of our church. In who did help. There are people addition to some good conversation who helped that I am not even and learning, we will enjoy getting aware of because I was busy in the to know each other. kitchen while they cleaned up the

hall. THANK YOU one and all, you If you’d like to participate, please made my work easier! call the FLC office 463-1326, or

speak to Pr Allie soon. Pr Allie’s cell The proceeds will go to the is 716-499-1120. Sister Maureen Joyce Soup Kitchen.

It is truly a family affair here at First 11:30 am- 12:30 pm Lutheran.

Jan 27 First Session: Lutheran Praising His name, Christians Cindy Reynders Feb 10 Second Session: Being the Church Feb 17 Third Session: Doing Page 8 Ministry First At First Dialogue between First Lutheran and St. John’s Through our autumn cottage meetings, our congregation has expressed a desire to meet and St. John’s and First Lutheran Churches have voted to begin dialogue build relationships with our on mission and ministry. The congregation councils of both First and St. neighbors. As one step in this John’s have assembled a team from the two churches to talk. Each process, we are going to hold a free congregation will have two members from the council and two members neighborhood dinner at church, the from the congregation not on the council along with the pastors. first Sunday of each month at 4:00 (hence the First at First). These The team members are: meals will be simple and First Lutheran St. John’s Lutheran inexpensive. We hope musicians Dorothy Carlson Ethan Coppenrath from St. Rose will provide Joe Markowski Karen Lapierre entertainment during the dinners. Sandy O'Connor Lindsay Stannard Our goal is to host a monthly Steve Carlson Paula Schwab congregation/neighborhood dinner Pastor Allie Pastor Paul so we can get to know our neighbors, and they can get to The initial goal of the team is to capture a vision for mission to lead know us. us into the future conversations. The team would meet every four to six weeks. The first meeting of the team will be the evening of February 6 at St. St. Rose students will volunteer John’s. Your prayers for the Spirit’s guidance as we gather this team are to help set up for the dinner, cook appreciated. The working name of team is Future Together Team for now. and clean up afterward. We need volunteers from our congregation to donate a prepared entree, which can be left in the kitchen on Sunday 6:00 p.m. Soup Supper morning. This entrée recipe will be given out to you after you sign up 7:00 p.m. Worship to make it (ex. – ziti, sloppy joe, goulash). We also need one or two people to work at each dinner, Feb. 20 - “Seeking Hands” beginning at 2:00 PM. You would at St. John's with Pr. John Knarvik supervise the St. Rose students and assist with the meal. Beginning Feb. 27 - “Estranged Hands” January 27, sign-up sheets for food at Holy Spirit with Pr. Allie Leitzel preparation and working at the dinners will be on the bulletin Mar. 6 - “Hurting Hands” board in the hall. If you have any at St. Paul's with Pr. Paul Rees-Rohrbacher questions, please contact Janice Logan. (437-1121 or Mar. 13 - Hands yet to be determined [email protected]) at First with Pr. David Dietsche

We look forward to many of you Mar. 20 - “Nervous Hands” joining our neighbors at these at Good Shepherd with Pr. Dave Preisinger dinners to make First Lutheran

Church an integral center of the St. John's will continue the practice of hosting a Lenten midday service at neighborhood for everyone. 12:15 at the chapel, 303 Sand Creek Road from Ash Wednesday through the

Wednesdays of Lent and Thursday and Friday of Holy Week. Pastor Paul’s Janice Logan theme at these chapel services will be “Gateway of Justice”. Church Council News—by Steven B. Carlson, Lay President

Estate of Margaret Q. Stafford In the December 2012 newsletter I reported that FLC has now received a total of $194,453.09 from the Stafford estate. I also stated the Church Council would be making recommendations to the Congregation regarding the use of this money.

There has been a misunderstanding regarding the Stafford bequest. At first we were told there were no restrictions on the gift. However, we now have a copy of the actual will and she directed that the gift was to the Abiding Memorial Fund at First Lutheran Church.

I’m certain most of you know, monies designated to the Abiding Memorial Fund are presently restricted for use only for the sanctuary portion of our facility. We hope to share more information on this issue next month.

Alex Nagy, our new sexton The sexton’s apartment renovations have now been completed with the installation of new carpeting. Alex has moved in and we can feel more confident that the many outside groups using our facilities, both day and evenings will have a friendly and helpful representative of FLC to assist and supervise their activities.

Albany Lutheran Cluster Pastoral Transition Survey On January 12 th , representatives from our Cluster were present at our 10:00 a.m. worship service and asked FLC members to complete a survey regarding the transition process. The following graphics (shared at the Albany Cluster meeting on January 22nd attended by Pastor Allie, Liz Peters, Karen Conklin and Steve Carlson) detail your collective responses. Should you require additional details, please contact Julie in the FLC office for more details.

Page 10 25 Interesting 9. Luther’s Large Catechism consisted 17. Massive immigration from of works addressed particularly to traditionally Lutheran countries to the Lutheran Facts clergymen to aid them in teaching their United States between 1840 and 1875

In honor of the 25th congregations. resulted in 58 Lutheran synods being anniversary of the ELCA formed. we have collected 25 facts about 10. The Book of Concord or Lutherans and Lutheranism. This, of “Concordia” (1580) contains 18. The first Lutheran pastor to be course, is only a small sampling from documents that explain what Lutherans ordained in the United States was our almost 500-year history. Let us believe. It includes the three creeds of German-born Justus Falckner on Nov. know what you would add to this list. the ancient church and Reformation 24, 1703. writings such as Luther’s Small and Large Catechisms, and the Formula of 19. German Lutheran Pastor Henry 1. The Lutheran Church is the oldest Concord. Muhlenberg was sent to North America Protestant tradition. as a missionary upon the request of

11. Composer Johann Sebastian Bach, a Pennsylvania colonists. He is 2. Martin Luther issued the devout Lutheran, is credited with 1,126 considered the patriarch of American “Disputation of Martin Luther on the musical works listed in the complete Lutheranism. Power and Efficacy of Indulgences” that Bach catalog (Bach-Werke-Verzeichnis, became known as his “95 Theses” in or BWV). He wrote about 200 cantatas, 20. As late as the 19th century, Wittenberg on Oct. 31, 1517. including at least two for each Sunday Lutherans in the United States still

and holy day in the Lutheran church looked to their European homelands to 3. Lutherans went viral nearly 500 years year. supply pastors and worship materials. ago, when Martin Luther and his allies used the new media of the day — 12. Lutherans believe in “Salvation by 21. Founded in 1826, the Lutheran pamphlets, ballads and woodcuts — grace through faith” — that salvation Theological Seminary at Gettysburg in and circulated them through social comes by grace through faith alone, not Pennsylvania is the oldest operating networks to promote their message of by works and sacraments. seminary in the ELCA. the reformation of the church.

13. Philipp Melanchthon (Feb.16, 1497 22. Lutherans form the largest religious 4. Following the practice of naming a — April 19, 1560), was one of the denomination in Namibia, formerly “heresy” after its leader, the name primary founders of Lutheranism. Born German Southwest Africa. Lutheran originated as a derogatory Philipp Schwartzerdt, he translated his term used by Johann Eck during the name to its Greek form — 23. Founded in 1947 in Lund, Sweden, Leipzig Debate in July 1519. Melanchthon. He made the distinction The Lutheran World Federation now

between law and gospel the central has 143 member churches in 79 5. Rather than “Lutheran,” Martin formula for Lutheran evangelical countries around the world Luther preferred to describe the insight. representing 70.5 million Christians. reformation as “evangelical,” which is derived from the Greek word meaning 14. Since 1520, regular Lutheran 24. On Jan. 1, 1988, The American “good news.” services have been held in Lutheran Church, The Association of

Copenhagen. Evangelical Lutheran Churches, and The 6. Generally speaking Lutheran Lutheran Church in America officially teaching can be summed up by “Three 15. During the 16th century, merged to form the Evangelical Solas”: (1) Grace Alone; (2) Faith Alone; Lutheranism spread through all of Lutheran Church in America (ELCA). (3) Scripture Alone. Scandinavia as the monarchs of

Denmark-Norway (also Iceland) and 25. The ELCA is the largest Lutheran 7. The split between the Lutherans and Sweden (also Finland) adopted body in the United States. the Roman Catholics began with the Lutheranism. Edict of Worms in 1521, which officially excommunicated Luther and all of his 16. The first Lutheran worship service followers. in North America is believed to have

taken place in what is now known as 8. Luther’s Small Catechism (“Der Manitoba on Jan. 23, 1620. The sermon Kleine Katechismus”) was published in was delivered by Pastor Rasmus Jensen. 1529 for the teaching of children at home by their parents. Page 11 · Jon Gifford: friend of Lois Skuse · Linda Gorski: good friend of Joyce Aiello · Kathryn Hansen: sister of Bob Frost · Sue Heinze: neighbor of the Hazzards · Kathleen Horner: sister of Judy Carlson · Kandi Jackson: daughter of Chris & Trudy Fedden · Jeannie Johansen: sister-in-law of the Johansens · Michael Kilmade: friend of the O’Connors · Henry Korn: brother of Trudy Fedden · Rev. Kenn Latel: member of Holy Spirit · Marguerite LaVigne: friend of the Johansens · B.J. Lornell: friend of the Erling-Colafatis · Mark Mance: cousin of the Vinings & Dan Smith · Andrew McBride: nephew of Clara LeBarron · Rev. Robert Mitman: former intern at FLC · Annette Mont: friend of Lisa Rittberger · Al & Jean Motta: friends of Lois Skuse Please pray for… · Carlyn Murray: cousin of Karl Manthei Our Members: · Ashley Noonan: niece of Barbara McGuinness · Pauline Northrup: friend of Lois Skuse · Lois Coon · Dan & MaryEllen O’Brien: friends of Nancy Endres · Marcia Coon · Beverly Olander: sister of Pat Hansen · Judy Greenwood · Philip Paonessa: brother-in-law of Kim Paonessa · Peter Pasternak: brother-in-law of Judy Skuse · Keith Hansen · David Peters: father of Chuck Peters · Patricia Hansen · Eric Petersen: husband of the niece of Joan & Judy Greenwood · Jeff Lind · Pamela Petersen: niece of Joan & Judy Greenwood · Lois Phelps: sister of Clara LeBaron · Ginny McVittie · Ruth Pitts: sister of Joyce Aiello, Bev Hazzard & Karen Moore · Marcelle Olsen · Jim Prehoda: son-in-law of Jim Leonard · Jane Rosell · Chris Preisinger: wife of Pr. David Preisinger · Geri Pressley: friend of Sandy O'Connor · Bill Shufelt · Vickie Quay: friend of the Johansens · Laura Shufelt · Kim Raabe: daughter-in-law of Carol Raabe · Lois Skuse · Lois Randall: cousin of the O’Connor family · Pastor & Sandy Ricci: friend & neighbors of the Hazzards · Marc Salzer · Darhon Rees-Rohrbacher: wife of Pr. Paul Rees Rohrbacher · Marilyn Salzer · Robert Schoneman, III: great-nephew of Joan & Judy Greenwood · Elaine Smith · Melissa & Amanda Sippel: granddaughters of Barbara McGuinness · Madelyn & Kaitlin Tamayo, infant twins: friends of the Johansens · Ed Vining · Lou Thonges: cousin of Bernie Shafarzek · Mary Virgili · Carol & Lonnie Tomlin: friends of Lois Skuse · Jim Wilson-Garrison · Julie Tottey: friend of Lois Skuse · Joan Van Apeldoorn: friends of the Mantheis · Charlotte Wolffe · Alyson Ward: daughter of Barbara McGuinness Our Friends, Neighbors and Family: · Jan Ward: family member of Barbara McGuinness · Tim Belinski: cousin of Joyce Aiello · Josephine Warren: niece of Geri Saulpaugh · Anna Bestenheider: sister of Bernie Shafarzek · Matthew & Michael Ward: grandsons of Barbara McGuinness · Dan Brodax: uncle of the Erling-Colafatis · Marvin Woodcock: friend of Paul Hyde · Luke Brodax: cousin of the Erling-Colafatis · David Young: brother of Jan Frost · Marianne Brunner: friend of Lisa Rittberger · Joy Bull: friends of the Shafarzeks Our Men and Women in Uniform: · Karen, Tim and Pat Burleski: co-worker of Laurel Riker · AFC Zachary D. Burnash, injured/Afghanistan, friend of Lois Skuse · Donald Butler: a friend · Capt. Christian Drennen, Ft. Drum: son of Russ & Pam Drennen · Susan Caltrider: niece of Geri Saulpaugh · Pvt. Taylor Engelhardt, Korea: grandson of Ed & Carol Engelhardt · Shirley Cohen: friend of Geri Saulpaugh · Cpl. Stephen Woods, US Marine: nephew of Tim & Jean Eskeli · Chuck Conklin: brother of Bob Conklin · Linda Cross: sister of Deb Aiken Our Wider Mission Concerns: · Chris Cymenman: friend of Barbara McGuinness · For the people affected by recent natural disasters. · John Denman: cousin of Barb Shafarzek & Nancy Endres · For peace. · Missy Dupry: dear friend of Rich Klaus · For the unemployed. · Lila Dwileski: child of a friend of Al & Marcia Hoyt · For Chuck Schwartz, Dean of Hudson Mohawk Conference. · Johanna Erling: cousin of the Erling-Colafatis · For Marie Jerge, Bishop of the Upstate New York Synod. · Marilyn Erling: mother of Anne Erling · For Mark Hanson, our ELCA Presiding Bishop. · Chess Faircloth: father of Sheri Van Orden · Bishop Stephen Dube, Bishop of the ELCZ · Bertha Fiter: niece of Geri Saulpaugh · Sr. Pastor Chana of Zambia

Page 12 February Memorial Flowers Given to the Glory of God and ... February 3 In loving memory of Mr. and Mrs. Henry Moore, by their daughters; and in loving memory of their sister, Eleanor M. Konis by Barbara and Bernie Shafarzek and Nancy Endres and their families.

February 10 In loving memory of our parents, Marjorie and Bill Reynders and Jim Secovnie by Cindy and Rich Reynders; and in loving memory Sean Murphy by the Murphy family.

February 13 Altar flowers for this day are still available … Contact Liz Peters for more information (Ash Wed.)

February 17 In loving memory of Mr. and Mrs. Frederick Sawyer, by her sisters; and in loving memory of Douglas Coon, by his family.

February 24 In loving memory of J. Nevil and Martha Horner, and Ragnar and Shirley Carlson by Steve and Judy Carlson; and in loving memory of Ralph and Ruth Kromphardt by Mr. and Mrs. James Cummings, Heidi Kromphardt and grandaughter Kellie Kelm.

Any new requests, questions or changes call Liz Peters, 869-0387 Altar Vase - $22.50 Sanctuary Vase - $27.50

Pastor Allie and Congregation, Thanksgiving Offering Two current opportunities

I just want to thank you all so for growing in faith much for making me feel so For a number of years, our welcome when I began coming to Thanksgiving Offering has been your services. It makes being away designated for the Evangelical from home at school much easier Lutheran Church in Zimbabwe knowing that there are people who (ELCZ), a companion Church will support me in my faith as I of our Upstate NY Synod. continue my education.

I hope everyone has a ALL ARE WELCOME! wonderful holiday season with your family and friends and a blessed Sundays 9:00 a.m. New Year. For Thanksgiving 2012, $598 World Religions I’m looking forward to seeing was received in the Thanksgiving you all again in January. Mondays 7:30 p.m. Offering, and when combined with Merry Christmas and God’s $96 left from 2011 a we recently Continuing to study blessings! sent a total of $694 to ELCZ at the St. Paul’s letters Kayli Hurd end of 2012. Page 13 Serving in February

LITURGICAL COMMUNION FELLOWSHIP LECTOR USHERS COUNTERS ALTAR GUILD VAN DRIVERS DEACON ASSISTANTS HOUR

Sunday, Michael Barbara S. Group 6 Janice Logan Nancy SouperBowl Cliff February 3rd Casler Rich K. with Endres Soup Danielson 4th Sunday after Paul H. Bob Frost, Janice Frost Karie Luncheon Epiphany 10:00 a.m. Caller Robertson Judy Laurel Barbara M. Group 1 Bob Frost Eve Norton Steve & Judy Rich Klaus Sunday, February 10th Greenwood Riker Colin M. with Judy Carlson Carlson The Transfiguration Liz P. Tim Eskeli, Bob & Karen 10:00 a.m. Caller Conklin Barbara Judy Group 2 Beverly Wednesday, February 13th Shafarzek Greenwood Cliff Hazzard Ash Wednesday Danielson, Kay 7:30 p.m. Caller Victorson Michael Judy G. Group 3 Janice Logan Rich Clara Bernie Sunday, February 17th Casler Kim R. Joe with Reynders DeMarco & Shafarzek The First Sunday in Lent Abby B. Markowski, Kim Ryan Colin Marcia Hoyt 10:00 a.m. Caller McKnight Barbara Ingrid Liz P. Group 4 Bob Frost Liz Peters Fred & VAN Sunday, February 24th Shafarzek Erling - Karie R. with Clara SunCha DRIVER The 2nd Sunday in Lent Colafati Rich K. Fred Sawyer, Bob Howland DeMarco Sawyer NEEDED 10:00 a.m. Caller

Here’s an opportunity for you to help make a difference!

The Capital Region has experienced a significant rise in the number of homeless men, women and children over the last four years. Homelessness and the need for additional shelter beds in Albany County continue to be a focus for the Capital Area Council of Churches (CACC). It is our belief that all people, regardless of a person’s circumstances and behaviors, have a human right to obtain shelter from deadly weather and dangerous street-living. Since 2000 the CACC as sponsor, First Lutheran Church of Albany as host, and the Evangelical Protestant United Church of Christ as operator, have responded to this crisis by providing an Emergency Overflow Shelter with professionally trained staff, operating through the cold weather months, 7 days a week, 12 hours each day.

Children, Youth and Adults from around the capital region will be participating in the fund-raising event. The event is open to all! Students from Cornerstone Campus Ministry at the University at Albany will be assisting the planning team with hosting the event. Participants will be encouraged to get pledges and work towards our common goal of raising at least $10,000 towards the work of the shelter.

On Saturday, February 2, 2013 members of our church will be participating in a “Bowling for Beds’ Bowl-A-Thon to raise money for the Emergency Overflow Homeless Shelter in Albany. The event will be held at Sunset Recreation Center, 1160 Central Avenue. To make a donation, please see Steve Carlson or Pr. Allie.

Page 14 SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY 9:00 a.m. 1 2 3 1 Damien Center 2 Staff Meeting 2:00 p.m. Craft & Conversation Club February, 2013 Hartwick Lounge 8:00 p.m. NA Meeting

9:00 a.m. 10:00 a.m. 3 FOURTH SUNDAY AFTER EPIPHANY 4 5 Albany Senior 6 7 Church Women 8 9 Orchestra Rehearsal United Meeting 9:00 a.m. World’s Greatest Religions 10:30 a.m. 9:00 a.m. Choir Rehearsal Sermon Study with 10:00 a.m. Worship with Holy Communion Conference Clergy 11:30 a.m. SouperBowl Soup Luncheon 7:00 p.m. 7:00 p.m. Future Together The Greatest Story: Paul 7:00 p.m. Team (FTT) Meeting 7:00 p.m. Bible Discussion Group Albany Gay Men’s 8:00 p.m. at St. John’s Choir Rehearsal with Pastor Allie Chorus Rehearsal NA Meeting

9:00 a.m. TRANSFIGURATION OF OUR LORD Albany Senior Orchestra 10 11 12 Rehearsal 13 14 15 16

10:30 a.m. 9:00 a.m. World’s Greatest Religions Sermon Study with 9:00 a.m. Choir Rehearsal Conference Clergy 10:00 a.m. Worship with Holy Communion 7:00 p.m. 10:45 a.m. Sunday School for children 3+ 7:00 p.m. Church Council Meeting 7:30 p.m. 11:00 a.m. Coffee and Fellowship Hour The Greatest Story: Paul 7:00 p.m. Ash Wednesday Bible Discussion Group 7:00 p.m. 8:00 p.m. 4:30 p.m. Albany Gay Men’s Chorus Worship Choir Rehearsal with Pastor Allie Rehearsal NA Meeting Damien Center Dinner

9:00 a.m. 17 FIRST SUNDAY IN LENT 18 19 Albany Senior 20 21 22 23 Orchestra Rehearsal

9:00 a.m. World’s Greatest Religions 10:30 a.m. 9:00 a.m. Choir Rehearsal Sermon Study with 10:00 a.m. Worship with Holy Communion Conference Clergy St. John’s Lutheran 10:45 a.m. Sunday School for children 3+ 6:00 p.m. 11:00 a.m. Coffee and Fellowship Hour 7:00 p.m. Soup Supper 3:00 p.m. Friendship House & Albany Gay Men’s 7:00 p.m. 7:00 p.m. 8:00 p.m. Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church Office CLOSED Chorus Rehearsal Worship w/ Pr. Knarvik Choir Rehearsal NA Meeting Church Dinner

9:00 a.m. 24 SECOND SUNDAY IN LENT 25 26 Albany Senior 27 28 First Lutheran Church Orchestra Rehearsal

9:00 a.m. World’s Greatest Religions 10:30 a.m. FirstLutheranAlbany.org 9:00 a.m. Choir Rehearsal Sermon Study with 10:00 a.m. Worship with Holy Communion Conference Clergy Holy Spirit 10:45 a.m. Sunday School for children 3+ 7:00 p.m. 6:00 p.m. 11:00 a.m. Coffee and Fellowship Hour The Greatest Story: Paul 7:00 p.m. Soup Supper 463 -1326 Bible Discussion Group Albany Gay Men’s 7:00 p.m. 7:00 p.m. Choir Rehearsal with Pastor Allie Chorus Rehearsal Worship w/ Pr. Allie

Our Lenten Season begins on Ash Wednesday, February 13 th

Worship with us at 7:30 p.m.

Holy Communion & the Imposition of Ashes

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Current Resident or

Lent is an occasion for us to journey with Christ … into tomorrow. For you never walk with Christ long but what the dawn breaks, the sun shines and hope breaks through.

—C. Neil Straight