THE 279 N Medina St, Suite 150, Loretto, MN 55357 OF Volume XLVII VOICE ZION Number 12 December 2020

Children here in grace abiding, banish sadness and your tears. We have reason to be joyful; precious is our fortune here.

SHZ 50

Christmas

Read Christmas greetings on pages 6–9. PHOTO: ANNE SERVIN EDITORIAL

How Has This Year’s Journey Gone? +LWKHUWRKDWKWKH/RUGKHOSHGXV²6DP The Joy of Christmas ANOTHER YEAR IS PASSING. In a sense, the turn of the year is no more momentous than any other moment in time; time always ticks its course forward and on. Yet the new year, the increase by one numeral at the end of four digits Keith Moll The shepherds received the joyous feels like a change, the end of something old, the start of something new. We take message that God’s promised Savior had stock of the year that is ending. A look back can help inspire hopes, goals and There were in the same country shepherds been born upon the earth. They would dreams for what is to come. Meanwhile, we ask ourselves, how has this year’s DELGLQJLQWKHÀHOGNHHSLQJZDWFKRYHU ÀQGWKHEDE\-HVXVLQDPDQJHU+HDYHQ journey gone? WKHLUÁRFNE\QLJKW$QGORWKHDQJHORI and earth rejoiced! Multitudes of angels We know God has already assigned each of us a number of days, a number of WKH/RUGFDPHXSRQWKHPDQGWKHJORU\ joined in giving praise to God. What a years here on this earth. Each day is one day less to live, each year brings us a year RIWKH/RUGVKRQHURXQGDERXWWKHPDQG wonderful sight it must have been for the closer to the end of our life. In this perspective, and especially as the number of WKH\ZHUHVRUHDIUDLG$QGWKHDQJHOVDLG shepherds to witness! days and years spent here accrue, these days and years feel like a gift. We can XQWRWKHP)HDUQRWIRUEHKROG,EULQJ pause to thank God for all that has passed, all we have experienced, and especially \RXJRRGWLGLQJVRIJUHDWMR\ZKLFKVKDOO Tidings of Joy to All People IRU+LVJUDFHZKLFKVXIÀFHV\HDUWR\HDU*RGLVWKHVRXUFHRIWKHVWUHQJWKWKDW EHWRDOOSHRSOH)RUXQWR\RXLVERUQWKLV God shows His grace to the lowly and again this year carried us to each new dawn. GD\LQWKHFLW\RI'DYLGD6DYLRXUZKLFK humble. God can reveal to an unbelieving The year 2020 has been exceptional. When it began, we couldn’t know what LV&KULVWWKH/RUG$QGWKLVVKDOOEHDVLJQ person through the Ten Commandments was in store for us. A global pandemic overtook us in the spring and brought XQWR\RX

PAGE 2 | DECEMBER 2020 THE VOICE OF ZION VZ/12

Page 10 Christmases Past and Present

Insert ROUND THE TABLE: Where do we live? (between pages 10 & 11) PHOTO: ANNE SERVIN

News and Notes from LLC Page 18

Eric Jurmu presented topic was united and one- • Watch also for announcements regarding Christmas minded. We wish to remember one core staff openings for the 2021 camp in the NICU LO, HOW A ROSEH·HUEORRPLQJ another in love and patience, serve our season at all LLC-owned facilities. IURPWHQGHUVWHPKDVVSUXQJ neighbor amid challenges presented by Notices will be sent to congregations in 2I-HVVH·VOLQHDJHFRPLQJ the worldwide pandemic and be respect- December or January. There will also be DVPHQRIROGKDYHVXQJ ful to and obey the various mandates openings for paid kitchen staff at HLC Page 20 ,WFDPHDÁRZHUEULJKW which are currently in place. for the months of July and August. DPLGWKHFROGRIZLQWHU A PLACE ZKHQKDOIVSHQWZDVWKHQLJKW • Representatives from the Eastern • Subscription renewal notices have been OF WATCHING: Region congregation boards met online sent out for the 2021 9RLFHRI=LRQ and ,VDLDKKDGIRUHWROGLW November 7. 6KHSKHUG·V9RLFH Note that along with this Our Advent LQZRUGVRISURPLVHVXUH subscription, access to digital and audio in DQG0DU\·VDUPVHQIROG+LP • Midwestern Region boards met in versions is available by contacting the LLC DYLUJLQPHHNDQGSXUH Rockford, Minn., November 21. Ben RIÀFH:HWKDQN\RXIRU\RXUVXEVFULSWLRQ 7KURXJK*RG·VHWHUQDOZLOO Waaraniemi introduced the topic “For It helps to support LLC work. WKLV&KLOGWRXVLVJLYHQ our gospel came not unto you in word DWPLGQLJKWFDOPDQGVWLOO only, but also in power, and in the Holy • In December, the Humanitarian Aid 6+= Ghost,” from 1 Thess. 1:5, as basis for the Committee sends an annual Christmas gift spiritual discussion. The meeting also package to congregations in Ecuador, Togo, During this festive season we are thankful addressed terms for LLC Board mem- and Ghana. This year, due to the world- A SONG OF MY HEART for the many blessings which God has bers, camp board members and region wide pandemic, the package serves as a given. We are most thankful for the mission committee members. well-received gift for believers in far-away PSALM 24:7–10 IXOÀOOPHQWRIWKHSURPLVHRID6DYLRU)RU lands. Year-end contributions can be made this we say, “Immanuel, God is with us” • In early November, we asked for input for this effort on the LLC website. Click 7. Lift up your heads, (Isa. 7:14; Matt. 1:23). On behalf of the IURPSDUHQWVZKRKDYHDFRQÀU- 'RQDWH and then write “HAC Christmas O ye gates; and be ye //&RIÀFHVWDII,ZLVKHDFKRI\RXD PDQGWRLQGLFDWHWKHLUÀUVWDQGVHFRQG gift” in the 3D\PHQWIRU box. lifted up, ye everlast- joyous and peaceful Christmas. May the FKRLFHIRU&RQÀUPDWLRQVFKRRO%DVHGRQ message of God’s perfect gift to human- WKRVHUHVXOWVHLJKW//&&RQÀUPDWLRQ • It’s not too early to start making plans ing doors; and the kind be centermost as we celebrate this Schools will be held in 2021. The signup for 2021 LLC Services. Winter Services King of glory shall Christmas season. IRUFRQÀUPDWLRQZLOORSHQ-DQXDU\ in Phoenix, Ariz., are being planned for come in. Desert Mountain Middle School, March 8. Who is this King of Updates on LLC Activities • 'DWHVDQGORFDWLRQVRIWKH&RQÀU- 18–21. The Phoenix church is reserved as mation Schools are as follows: a back-up location, in case the pandemic glory? The Lord strong • Just in time for Christmas, we have ~ June 20–27: Hasscib Lake 1 affects our planning. and mighty, the Lord released two new items. One is an album, ~ July 10–17: West Coast 1 will be held July 1–4 in Marquette, mighty in battle. called &KULVWPDV3HDFH of Christmas ~ July 11–18: Prairie Shores Michigan. As further information 9. Lift up your heads, music on classical guitar and organ. The ~ July 11–18: Stony Lake 1 becomes available, it will be published in other is our latest board book, titled $ZD\ ~ July 17–24: West Coast 2 the 9RLFHRI=LRQ on LLC social media O ye gates; even lift LQD0DQJHU Both would be wonderful ~ July 18–25: Hasscib Lake 2 and on the LLC website. them up, ye everlast- gifts for loved ones and can be purchased ~ July 18–25: Kamp Kipa ing doors; and the on the LLC website or in your local ~ July 25–Aug. 1: Stony Lake 2 • As the year comes to an end, may each of King of glory shall congregation bookstore. XVSDXVHWRUHÁHFWRQWKHDEXQGDQW come in. Capacity at Stony Lake is 50 students and blessings God has showered on the work • Approximately 100 ministers joined the 30 at the other locations. of His kingdom. At LLC, we are mindful 10. Who is this King of annual LLC Ministers Teleconference on of the generosity of believers who support glory? The Lord of November 5. LLC Board Chairman Jim • Positions are open for SLC Caretaker and our central organization’s work in its hosts, he is the King Frantti opened the teleconference by Kitchen Manager. For additional infor- many forms. We ask God to richly repay of glory. Selah. summarizing the current spiritual mation, contact LLC Facilities Manager you as only He can. situation in North American Zion. He Phil Jurmu ([email protected]). then presented the topic “The Christian Submit your application for these I wish for you all God’s abundant & Government.” The discussion on the positions by December 31, 2020. blessings in the New Year! )

THE VOICE OF ZION DECEMBER 2020 | PAGE 3 FROM THE READER THE SABBATH WORD 1

A Kingdom Not of This World

Tomm Stewart God the things that are God’s” (Mark 12:17). Religion and politics and philosophies of this world WHEN OUR LORD WALKED THE ROADS and do not go together. The Apostle Paul reminded. “For visited the towns in and around Galilee, His mission the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but and His ministry was focused on the preaching of righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost” the gospel and teaching about the kingdom of God. (Rom. 14:17). And also, “For the kingdom of God is Jesus called those into the kingdom when he said, not in word, but in power” (1 Cor. 4:20). “Repent ye, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand” (Matt. 3:2, 4:17). The Word Opens through the Spirit Jesus had one purpose: “I came down from heaven All the matters of God’s kingdom are sacred and not to do mine own will, but the will of him that sent belong to the Word of God, and the Word of God – me” (John 6:38). It is good for us to remember this in the Bible – is our highest authority. The Bible is As the Lightning DOOWKLQJVDQGGXULQJDOOWLPHVHYHQLQWKHGLIÀFXOW opened through the Holy Spirit. Jesus was once times in which we now live. DSSURDFKHGE\DKLJKUDQNLQJ5RPDQRIÀFHUD When Jesus appeared to the disciples after His centurion and a man of high authority and of political That Lights death and resurrection, He said to them, “Peace be power, who had a servant that was sick and needed unto you: as my Father hath sent me, even so send I KHDOLQJ7KLVSRZHUIXORIÀFHUZLWKKXPLOLW\VDLGWR you” (John 20:21). He meant the same for today’s Jesus, “Lord, I am not worthy that thou shouldest the Sky believers, and also when He continued, “Receive ye come under my roof: but speak the word only, and my the Holy Ghost: Whose soever sins ye remit, they are servant shall be healed. For I am a man under Dan Parks remitted unto them; and whose soever sins ye retain, authority, having soldiers under me: and I say to this WKH\DUHUHWDLQHGµ -RKQ 7KLVRIÀFH man, Go, and he goeth; and to another, Come, and he :KHQKHZDVGHPDQGHGRIWKH3KDULVHHVZKHQWKH instructs and inspires the preaching of the gospel as cometh; and to my servant, Do this, and he doeth it.” NLQJGRPRI*RGVKRXOGFRPHKHDQVZHUHGWKHPDQGVDLG the universal task of God’s children to all who wish to Jesus was touched by his faith and told him, “Go thy WKHNLQJGRPRI*RGFRPHWKQRWZLWKREVHUYDWLRQ1HLWKHU hear and believe. Retaining sins has been understood way; and as thou hast believed, so be it done unto VKDOOWKH\VD\ORKHUHRUORWKHUHIRUEHKROGWKH in living Christianity as the gospel not belonging to thee” (Matt. 8:8–11). This centurion, who knew his NLQJGRPRI*RGLVZLWKLQ\RX$QGKHVDLGXQWRWKH those in unbelief who do not desire the forgiveness of own great political power, understood that Christ's GLVFLSOHVWKHGD\VZLOOFRPHZKHQ\HVKDOOGHVLUHWRVHH their sins, primarily unbelief, the mother of all sins. power is so complete, He can through His word say RQHRIWKHGD\VRIWKH6RQRIPDQDQG\HVKDOOQRWVHHLW The Apostle Paul wrote of the essence of preaching in the command – and it happens. $QGWKH\VKDOOVD\WR\RXVHHKHUHRUVHHWKHUHJRQRW this way, “So then faith cometh by hearing and We live in a time today when much help is needed DIWHUWKHPQRUIROORZWKHP)RUDVWKHOLJKWQLQJWKDW hearing by the word of God” (Rom. 10:17). from God in healing from physical sickness but OLJKWHQHWKRXWRIWKHRQHSDUWXQGHUKHDYHQVKLQHWKXQWR especially from the sickness of sin and unbelief. The WKHRWKHUSDUWXQGHUKHDYHQVRVKDOODOVRWKH6RQRIPDQ Treasures of God’s Kingdom power and the position of God’s kingdom in this EHLQKLVGD\ Living faith unites the preaching of the gospel and world is not based in any political or social standing, /XNH² believing the forgiveness of sins in the name and but only in the power of the gospel of the forgiveness blood of Jesus. These teachings have remained the of sins. This power of the gospel is far above our low KHÀUVW6XQGD\LQ$GYHQWWHOOVRIWKHÀUVW core work of God’s kingdom. Holding faith and a comprehension, yet in our poor and weak understand- coming of our Savior to earth. It is good conscience (Tim. 1) and believing the gospel are ing we can believe this message. worthwhile to note that the Gospel text for inseparable treasures found only in God’s kingdom, WKDWGD\VSHDNVRI+LVÀQDOMRXUQH\WR among the believers. The Gospel – Our Focus and Our Joy T Jerusalem. These events were similar in The importance of God’s kingdom is such that In our services and Christian fellowship our focus WKDW+HFDPHLQDORZO\IRUPÀUVWLQDVWDEOHDQGWKHQ -HVXVVSRNHRILWLQWKLVZD\´%XWVHHN\HÀUVWWKH and our joy is in that precious gospel of the forgive- riding on a colt. In this manner He did not meet the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these ness of sins in the holy name and atonement blood of expectations of the people. They waited for a new king, things shall be added unto you” (Matt. 6:33). Jesus Jesus. The “statement” we could say, in our services albeit an earthly one. For that reason, most did not accept also made the nature of the kingdom clear when he and fellowship that comes forth from God’s kingdom, Him as their king. spoke with Pontius Pilate shortly before His death. is of the spirit of childlike faith and is entirely the Jesus said, “My kingdom is not of this world: if my spirit in which the Apostle Paul wrote: “For I A King and a Kingdom kingdom were of this world, then would my servants determined not to know any thing among you, save When we think of a king, we understand that without a ÀJKWWKDW,VKRXOGQRWEHGHOLYHUHGXQWRWKH-HZVEXW -HVXV&KULVWDQGKLPFUXFLÀHGµ &RU  kingdom there can be no king. Likewise, without a king my kingdom is not from hence” (John 18:36). The Holy Spirit promises and gives gifts to us in there is no kingdom. We recall that in the Old Testament In this passage, Jesus teaches that faith and the holy gospel, and by faith we take hold of these times most people belonged to a kingdom and were ruled political ideologies are not based in the same promises. Jesus is our security in all matters and E\DNLQJ%RUGHUVZHUHHVWDEOLVKHGWRGHÀQHWKHH[WHQWRI framework. Jesus clearly acknowledged and trials, Jesus is our righteousness, our only righteous- the kingdom. Sometimes kingdoms would go to war respected the laws of the land and of the temporal ness; Jesus alone – by grace through faith. We need against each other, often to try to increase the size of their kingdom or government. Some of the Pharisees and not consider it any other way nor complicate its kingdom by conquering part or all of another kingdom. the Herodians once attempted to trap Jesus into simplicity. As believers, children of God, and lambs The children of God in the Old Testament, God’s chosen speaking against the prevailing government of of the Good Shepherd like Apostle Paul, we want to people, also lived in an earthly kingdom. We remember Caesar. They appeared to think they could cause focus on the high calling of our Lord Jesus Christ. KRZ6DXOZDVDQRLQWHGDVWKHLUÀUVWNLQJIROORZHGE\.LQJ Him to speak against Caesar and the law of the land. We want to listen to the voice of the Good Shepherd, David and many others. Not all of those kings were Theirs was a thinly veiled act of deceit to try to catch which is preached by His children through the power obedient to God’s will, and many in the kingdom lived Jesus in His words and lure Him to mix politics and of the Holy Spirit. ungodly lives. Many times God needed to punish them. religion. Jesus did not fall for such a plot. He knew of He is our salvation and we desire to follow His Nonetheless, many believed as the prophets foretold. They their hypocrisy and said. “Why tempt ye me? Bring bloody footsteps on the way of the cross. Be of waited for a new king. me a penny that I may see it.” They did so, and Jesus good comfort; one day by faith you will reach said, “Whose is this image and superscription?” heaven’s home. ) Not of This World They replied that it was Caesar’s. Jesus told them Now our thoughts turn to this long-awaited King, our King “Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to 6XEPLWWHG$XJXVW and Savior, the Lord Jesus. Scripture tells us that He came

PAGE 4 | DECEMBER 2020 THE VOICE OF ZION THE SABBATH WORD 3

Joseph, An Obedient Believer Walt Lampi

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ÀOOHGZKLFKZDVVSRNHQRIWKH/RUGE\WKHSURSKHWVD\LQJ%HKROG DYLUJLQVKDOOEHZLWKFKLOGDQGVKDOOEULQJIRUWKDVRQDQGWKH\VKDOOFDOOKLVQDPH(PPDQXHO ZKLFKEHLQJLQWHUSUHWHGLV*RGZLWKXV7KHQ-RVHSKEHLQJUDLVHGIURPVOHHSGLGDVWKHDQJHORI WKH/RUGKDGELGGHQKLPDQGWRRNXQWRKLPKLVZLIH 0DWWKHZ² PHOTO: ANNE SERVIN he Apostle Matthew recorded the events of Jesus’ birth from Joseph’s point of view. He and Mary were engaged, but the wedding had not taken place. Never- to establish His kingdom. But He confessed before Pilate, “My kingdom is theless, he was considered her husband. That they had not come together means not of this world” (John 18:36). His kingdom does not have a physical they had no sexual relationship. When Joseph became aware that Mary was border, but a spiritual one. It also has a door, and Jesus said that he that T pregnant, he was distressed over what appeared to be her relationship with comes into His kingdom by any other way than that door is a thief and a another man and betrayal of him. robber. That door is Jesus himself (John 10). This means that one must The fact of Mary’s pregnancy naturally weighed heavily on Joseph’s mind. He undoubtedly repent of sin and believe the gospel of the forgiveness of sins preached loved Mary and did not want her to be publicly shamed. As a compassionate and just person, he only in His kingdom. Jesus Himself began His ministry by saying, “The wanted to do what was proper and thought deeply about the matter. He could put her away WLPHLVIXOÀOOHGDQGWKHNLQJGRPRI*RGLVDWKDQGUHSHQW\HDQGEHOLHYH privily, meaning quietly and privately break the engagement. While he thought about this the gospel” (Mark 1:15). GLIÀFXOWDQGKXUWIXOVLWXDWLRQKHIHOODVOHHS

A Kingdom Hidden from the World Jesus, the Savior, a Descendant of David Nobody can see God’s kingdom without living faith. Jesus told Nicode- While Joseph slept, an angel appeared to him in a dream urging him not to be afraid to take mus, “Verily, verily, I say unto thee, except a man be born again, he cannot Mary as his wife because she was not pregnant by another man but by the power of the Holy see the kingdom of God” (John 3:3). Further He said, “Verily, verily, I say Spirit. The angel announced to him that the child’s name would be Jesus, and His purpose was unto thee, except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter to save people from their sins. Previously the angel Gabriel had likewise informed Mary that LQWRWKHNLQJGRPRI*RG7KDWZKLFKLVERUQRIWKHÁHVKLVÁHVKDQGWKDW her child must be named Jesus. He would also be called the Son of God and the Son of the which is born of the Spirit is spirit” (John 3:5,6). Luther said that even if Highest. Furthermore, Gabriel informed that His kingdom will be everlasting, and He shall be one were to put on all the eyeglasses in the world, he still would not be given the throne of His father David (Luke 1:32–35). able to see God’s kingdom, except through the Holy Spirit. Joseph was a descendent of David, and for that reason had to travel to Bethlehem to be taxed To the world, this kingdom is seen much as the people saw Noah’s ark, VRWKDWWKHSURSKHF\RI-HVXV·ELUWKFLW\ZRXOGEHIXOÀOOHG/XWKHUVWXGLHGWKHOLQHDJHRI-HVXV tarred inside and out, certainly undesirable. But when God is able to and surprisingly discovered it included many persons guilty of gross sins and also those of awaken the conscience of unbelieving people and show them their miser- non-Jewish roots. Why? It is because Jesus died for both Jews and Gentiles and wanted to be able, sinful condition, then the light which shines forth from God’s chil- born into a family of sinners so that even the greatest sinner would dare approach the grace dren, however dim it might be, calls them to come with their burden of sin WKURQHWRÀQGIRUJLYHQHVVDQGSHDFH WR*RG·VWKURQHRIPHUF\7KHUHDOOVLQDQGGHÀOHPHQWFDQEHZDVKHGDZD\ in the blood of the Lamb, forever drowned in the sea of grace. Joseph Obeyed the Angel’s Messages In the times of the Old Testament and early New Testament, God sometimes used an angel to His Second Coming bring a special message. The angel messenger often appeared in visible form. God also revealed Our text relates of how Christ spoke of His second coming, that it “cometh His will through His prophets at different times and various ways (Heb. 1:1). But it was an angel not with observation” but rather, it shall be “as the lightning.” Our Lord that spoke to Joseph, giving instruction surrounding the birth of Jesus. will come in all His glory with His holy angels to sever the unjust from No words of Joseph are recorded in the New Testament – only his actions. When he awoke among the just. God’s Word throughout scripture does not describe a from his sleep he remembered the angel’s urging words and took Mary as his wife. On three serene picture of the day of His second coming. occasions, an angel was sent to him with instruction on what to do next (Matt. 1:20; 2:13,19). Jesus also spoke a parable of a wedding celebration where the king, The New Testament narrators depict Joseph as a quiet and obedient child of God. He wanted while inspecting the guests, found one without a wedding garment. He had to do what was right in the eyes of God. entered by some other way than through the door where wedding garments were obtained. Then the king said to him, “Friend, how camest thou in 7KH3URSKHV\LV)XOƓOOHG hither not having a wedding garment? And he was speechless. Then said 7KHVLJQRIDYLUJLQFRQFHLYLQJDQGJLYLQJELUWKZDVDQXQPLVWDNDEOHIXOÀOOPHQWRIWKH the king to the servants, bind him hand and foot, and take him away, and prophecy: “The Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear cast him into outer darkness; there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth. a son, and shall call his name Immanuel” (Isa. 7:14). The long-awaited one who had been For many are called, but few are chosen” (Matt. 22:12,13). So shall it be at SURPLVHGFHQWXULHVEHIRUH´WREUXLVHµWKHKHDGRIWKHVHUSHQWKDGÀQDOO\EHHQERUQLQWRWKH the Lord’s second coming. However, God’s children in His kingdom have world. He would be the victor over sin, death and hell, opening the way to heaven. already been clothed in garments of righteousness purchased on the The conception and birth of Christ are perfectly aligned to prophetic scriptures in the Old middle cross of Golgotha. John writes in Revelations of that great, Testament. At the beginning of the New Testament, God revealed His will through the birth and white-robed throng who have washed their robes and made them white in the ensuing redemptive work of His Son. He suffered, shedding His blood, died and rose again so the blood of the Lamb (Rev. 7:14). that all who believe upon Him might have the hope of eternal life. Dear child of God, soon He will come who is to come, bringing His  7KHJRRGQHZVRI+LVELUWKZKLFKZDVÀUVWPDGHNQRZQWRWKHVKHSKHUGVFRQWLQXHVWREHSUR- reward with Him. It pays to remain believing until that day. ) claimed from God’s kingdom in the preaching of the forgiveness of sins in Jesus’ name and blood. )

THE VOICE OF ZION DECEMBER 2020 | PAGE 5 Audrey Holmstrom; Amy Kangas; Breanna ★ UNITED STATES Christmas Greetings Kangas; Colton Kangas; Darla Kangas; Gina Kangas; Harley & Cindy Kangas and family; Alaska Wade & Victoria Kangas and family; Arvid Pirness; Duane & Mirjami Pirness; Eetu Pirness; David & Jolene Anderson and family; Kevin & Anna Simonson; Andrew Simonson; Boyd Kelly Byman and family; Chad & Rebecca Doran Simonson; Chris Simonson; Darren Simonson; and family; Jeff & Yvonne Edwards and family; Dean & Charlene Simonson and Kaci; Grant & Tory & Holly Fredrickson and family; Adam & Sara Simonson and family; Heidi Simonson; Lindsey Haataja and family; Jill Halonen; Aaron James & Meagan Simonson and family; Joel & Angela Huhta and family; Brendan & Morgan Simonson; John & Shanda Simonson and family; Johnson and family; Nick & Julie Johnson and Karin Simonson; Katie Simonson; Lance family; Richard & Carol Johnson and family; Simonson; Luke & Gloria Simonson and family; Zach & Kara Johnson and family; Justin & Crystal Lyndon & Lynne Simonson; Nathan & Beth Kumpula; Travis & Kirsten Kumpula and family; Simonson; Olivia Simonson; Philip Simonson; Aaron & Heidi Kuopus and family; Cody Lake; Rod & Lana Simonson and family; Tori Simon- Scott & Janelle Landa and family; Steve & son; Vernon & Corlyss Simonson; Warren & Lyla Carolyn Landa and family; Anita Laulainen; Simonson; Patrick & Jodi Sipila and family; Alf Clayton Laulainen; Gene Laulainen; Jay & Joann & Sherry Ylioja; Andrew Ylioja; Barry Ylioja; Laulainen and family; Kent & Chrisann Laulai- Borden & Kaylee Ylioja; Brendan Ylioja; Brody nen and Emilia; Ramona Laulainen; Ray & Ylioja; Cassandra Ylioja; Clayton & Maxine Brenda Laulainen and family; Russell & Brittany Ylioja; Courtney Ylioja; Daria Ylioja; Davin & Laulainen; Ryan & Amber Laulainen and family; Alicia Ylioja and family; Derek Ylioja; Edward & Daniel Lehto; Jake & Kyra Makela and family; Maria Ylioja; Emil & Thelma Ylioja; Evan Ylioja; Keith & Nicole Makela and family; Nathan & Gerald Ylioja; Grant Ylioja; Howard & Elaine Riita Maki and family; Arianna Mattila; Daniel & Ylioja; Ivan & Vicki Ylioja and family; Janna Carissa Mattila; Travis & Jenna Mattila and Ylioja; Jason Ylioja; Jedd Ylioja; Kaleb Ylioja; family; Shawn & Elizabeth Niemela and Samuel; Kevin & Valerie Ylioja; Lee Ylioja; Lynnae Ylioja; Bryce & Trina Ojalehto and family; Nate & Lionel & Lucille Ylioja and Ethan; Mark Ylioja; Charlene Parks and Harper; Trent & Nicole Parks Mark & Alynn Ylioja and family; Michael & and Kinsley; Antony Pasanen; Brian & Janice Jessica Ylioja; Michelle Ylioja; Neil & Jessica Raisanen and family; Jeff & Alisa Raisanen and Ylioja and family; Nolan Ylioja; Patrick Ylioja; family; Jeremy & Elaine Ridlon and family; Mark Quinn Ylioja; Rhett Ylioja; Roger Ylioja; Rory & Siltala; Isaac & Whitney Skoog and family; Bryan Susan Ylioja and family; Ryan Ylioja; Ryan Ylioja; & Lisa Wuollet and family; Shane & Elizabeth Scott Ylioja; Shelley Ylioja; Tyrel Ylioja Wuollet and family; Ben & Rosanna Ylitalo and family; John & Diana Ylitalo and family OUTLOOK: Jeff & Janelle Haapala and family; Levi & Calli Haapala; Murray & Kathy Haapala Arizona and family; Rick & Elizabeth Haapala and family; Tanner & Tiffany Halonen; Darrell & Nadia FLAGSTAFF: David & Mariina Felix; Ben & Jurvakainen and family; Linda Kangas; Mabel Lindsey Forstie and family; Jordan & Courtney Nikula; Irma Nikula; Antti & Varina Petaisto and Kariniemi; Ryan & Shauna Kariniemi and family; PHOTO: ANNE SERVIN family; Bryce & Emily Pirness and family; Ernest Tom & Kristi Kariniemi; Tristan & Annika Kariniemi & Marlene Pirness; Myla Pirness; Aaron & Joanne and family; Josh & Katie Makela and family ★ NORTH AMERICA ★ CANADA Simonson; Connor & Madison Simonson; Brad & Barb Simonson and family; Jeremy & Leah GLENDALE: Connie Aho; Adam & Tiffany LLC BOARD OF DIRECTORS Simonson and family; Laura Simonson; Lloyd & Forstie and family; Bill & Alissa Forstie and Alberta Carol Simonson; Lois Simonson; Shirley "Unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given" family; Curtis & Lindsey Forstie and family; Simonson; Evelyn Swan; Stephen & Diana (Isa. 9:6). LETHBRIDGE: Stefan & Tiffany Forstie and family; Tim & Hannu & Pirjo Janhunen; Warwaruk and family; Edward & Maria Ylioja Markus & Karin Janhunen and boys; Mikael & Victoria Forstie and family; Ben & Maggie The Old Testament prophet saw through eyes of Grangroth and family; Nick & Kaylin Grangroth Cherie Janhunen and family; Markku & Elise SASKATOON: Francis & Tammy Assiobo and faith how the Christmas child would be born for and family; Becca Hill; Phil & Angie Huhta and Mikkola and family; Brennen & Elise Muhonen family; Lorraine Haapala; Michelle Haapala; him personally. Together with the prophet we family; Lukas & Meghan Janhunen and family; and family; Eerik & Annina Pajala and family; George & Karen Honga and family; Pamela can rejoice through faith that God sent His Son Clayton & Samantha Johnson; Dana & Becky Allen & Jessica Pirness and family; Evelyn Johnson; Tiffany Kangas; Ashton & Brittany for each of us, to pay for our debt of sin and Johnson and family; Hazel Johnson; Keith Savolainen; Jouni & Tiina Savolainen; Raimo & Klassen and family; Cameron & Leona Klassen open the way to heaven. May this Christmas joy Johnson; Mariah Johnson; Sandra Johnson; Auli Savolainen; Jason & Michelle Simonson and and family; Kamiryn Klassen; Riku Klassen; be with you during this season, and may God Travis & Mary Johnson and family; Lisa Jurmu; family; Jake & Michelle Tauriainen and family; Kwamivi & Glenda Kpelly and Tyrone; Jim & richly bless you in the new year 2021! Douglas & Emily Ylioja and family; Kris & Rita Jeff & Mona Kako; Nora Kako; Chris & Brittany Paula Lehto and family; Momo & Joni Kesti and family; Ethan Kesti; Gary & Jessica Ylioja and family; Matthew & Courtney Ylioja Mohamed; Ryan & Anniina Niemela and family; Jim Frantti; Jim Jurmu; Sam Roiko; John Stewart; Kesti and family; Harrison Kesti; Keith & Kim and family; Todd & Sheralyn Ylioja and family; Jason & Kendra Parks and family; Lawrence & Steve Haataja; Petri Hotari; George Koivukangas; Kesti and family; Sophie Kesti; Tristam & Mia Trey Ylioja; Tucker Ylioja; Zach Ylioja Leanne Pirness and family; Rose Pirness; Samu Mike Kumpula; Peter Kuopus; Pete Lever; Rick Kesti and family; Markus Korpi; Ryan & Anneli & Stina Rimpioja and family; Becky Simonson; Nevala; Carey Simonson; Dean Simonson; Keith Kumpula and family; Frans & Jenny Kuoppala Ontario Benjamin Simonson; Blair & Krista Simonson Waaraniemi; Ken Wuollet and family; Rachelle Kurtti; Eric & Jenna Lahti and family; Bryce Simonson; Carey & Virpi and family; Ralph & Marilyn Rahkola; Ryan & THUNDER BAY: Sisko Juurakko LLC OFFICE STAFF, Simonson and family; Curtis & Lara Simonson Alissa Wuollet PASTORAL AND CAMP STAFF TORONTO: and family; Erica Simonson; Evan Simonson; Seppo & Anne Heilimo; Kristian & Greg & Reetta Simonson and family; Judy PHOENIX: "Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, Janelle Anderson; Joanne Anna-Reetta Hotari; Mauri & Irmeli Hotari; Petri Simonson; Lauri & Jenni Simonson and family; and shall call his name Immanuel" (Isa. 7:14). Anderson; Andy & Amy Erickson and family; & Mary Hotari and family; Simon & Laura Hotari Keith Simonson; Landon Simonson; Loreah Doug & Sharon Forstie; Steve & Jeannette and family; Anja Karppinen; Janne & Elise Simonson; Lori Simonson; Marshall & Tiana During this festive season we are thankful for Forstie; Keith & Mary Hillukka; Tom & Laura Laikola; Eija Mikkola; Hilkka Mikkola; Mauno Simonson and family; Marty & Katie Simonson the many blessings which God has given, yet Johnson and family; Daniel & Katie and Siena Mikkola; Ari & Virpi Mujunen and Daniel; Anita, and family; Matias Simonson; Nicholas none more than the fulfillment of the promise Natale; Lauri & Denise Nevala; George & Gloria Briitta and Kyllikki Niemi; David & Eija Niemi Simonson; Rachel Simonson; Robin Simonson; of a Savior. For this we say, “Immanuel – God is Niemela; John & Julie Ojalehto; Ramona and family; Gary & Elina Niemi and family; Scott & Gloria Simonson and family; Sheena with us.” Rahkola; Tim & Diane Roberts; Marja Rovala; Henry & Auli Niemi and family; Hannu & Maret Simonson; Trent & Lori Simonson and family; Bill & Carol Skoog and family; Levi & Lea Pentikainen and family; Olli & Nina Vänskä and Trevor Simonson; Troy & Paula Simonson and We wish you the peace and joy of Christmas, and Waaraniemi and family; Ben & Carita Wuollet family; Helena Vilen; Leila Vilen family; Wendy Simonson; William Simonson; a blessed New Year. and family; Troy & Greta Wuollet and family; Mike & Tracey Strand and family; Angie Swan; Mark & Becky Young Carmen Swan; Dyson Swan; Jim & Bonnie Swan Eric Jurmu; Elizabeth Juntunen; Maria Fredrick- Saskatchewan and family; Teneille Swan; Lorena Warwaruk; PRESCOTT VALLEY: son; Keith Waaraniemi; Jon Bloomquist; Adrian Heini Aho; Peyton Aho; DUNBLANE: Dion Haapala; Dustin Haapala; Natasha Warwaruk; Tory & Kirsti Wohlgemuth Pirness; Phil Jurmu; Matthew Keranen; Sandra Millie Avery; Diane Barber; Mike Barber; Garrett Garret Haapala; Garnet Haapala; Gradyn and family; Anita Ylioja Pylvainen; Annette Johnson; Kathy Laho; Liisa & Gina Byman and family; Mark & Debbie Haapala; Nels & Alyssa Haapala; Greg & Mary Byman and family; Mary Dalton and family; Keranen; Sarina Siljander; Jouko Haapsaari; Ann Haapala and family; Hanna Haapala; Duane Pirness; Mike Glynn; John & Margo Cheston & Karmen Edwards and family; Dave & Lindsey Haapala; Terry & Heather Haapala and ★ PUERTO RICO Miranda Edwards and family; Ross & Kayla Haataja; Peter Kuopus; Eric & Katrina Mattila; family; Vaughn & Nikita Haapala; Wilfred & Adam Wuollet; Doug Karvonen; Julie Ojalehto Fredrickson and family; John & Jane Grangroth Estelle Haapala; Elida Holmstrom; Leslie & Jukka & Debbie Jumppanen and family; Jared & Katrina Huhta and family;

PAGE 6 | DECEMBER 2020 THE VOICE OF ZION Alan & Lisa Johnson and family; Carl & Nancy Florida Risto & Susan Kiviahde; Reino & Diane Kuoppala; Parks and family; Ken & Pearl Raisanen; Eeva Johnson and family; Dale & Diane Johnson and Don & Gladys Lahti; Adam Lee; Barbara Lee; Tarnanen; Diana Vilkama; Lisa Ylitalo family; Daryl & Jan Johnson; Dean & Keilah LAKE WORTH: Glen & Carla Edwards; Veli- Garrett; Jon Aaron & Eva Lee and family; Levi & Johnson and family; Lars & Saana Johnson and Matti & Elina Heikkinen and family; Randall & Chanda Lee and family; Mason Lee; Max Lee; MONTICELLO: Doug Bratt; Dustin & Andrea family; Russell & Denise Johnson and family; Noella Herrala; Norm & Maxine Honkala; Seppo Zach & Anna Lee and family; John & Esther Davison and family; Brent & Tonya Fredrickson Doug & Debbie Karvonen; Oran & Sonja & Outi ; Jorma & Kaisa Karkkainen; Martin; Joyce Martin; Margaret Mattila; Ben and family; Nolan & Becky Fredrickson and Kennedy; Allen & Liz Makela and family; Clinton Jukka & Sirpa Kolmonen; Marketta Koski; Matti Parks; Derek Parks; Howard & Linda Parks; Tom & family; Andy & Deb Forstie and family; Josh & & Alice Makela; Frank & Barb Makela; Juha & & Eeva-Maija ; Sakari & Eine Mantila; Eero Elizabeth Parks and family; Brett Pikula; Richard Karen Fuller and family; Jim & Sue Grangroth Annette Marjanen and family; Logan & Ashley & Leena Niskanen; Vesa & Anu Paukkeri and & Karen Pikula; Robert Charles & Pam Redman; and Luke; Doug & Amber Grangroth and family; Marjanen; Luke & Amanda Marjanen and family; family; Janne & Sannamaija Pyrro and family; Maija Stump; Priscilla Ylitalo Nate & Adele Halonen and family; Jake & Eric & Katrina Mattila and family; Darren & Eva Paul & Kathy Riutta; Russell & Sinikka Roiko; Carmen Halonen and family; Justin & Anna Hall Moll and family; Jim & Mary Moll; Heikki & Jean Johannes & Leena Sallinen; Tarja Toikkanen; COKATO: Phil Grangroth; Randy & Anne and family; Brandon & Gloria Hall and family; Petaisto; Samuel & Inga Rovala and family; Rex Reijo & Maire Tuokkola; Timo & Marjut Vannas; Haapala and family; Bill & Lynn Hannus; Rauha Daren & Melissa Hendrickson and family; Steven & Helena Rovala; Alan Skalsky; Harvey & Edna Stan & Susan Wuollet Hillukka; Dave & Nancy Jacobson; Bill & Chris & Heidi Hendrickson and family; Bruce & Skoog; Marshall & Tiana Simonson and family; Josephson; Jack & Leah Kotila and family; Brigitte Herrala and family; Derrick & Deanna Charles Smith; Damon & Tanja Smyer and Samantha Lahti; Sara Lahti; Walt & Avis Lampi; Hillstrom and family; Brian & Kati Hillukka and family; Jack & Darlene Smyer; Mike & Janet Illinois Derek & Ulla Mattila and family; Jeremy & Stacy family; Darrell & Jennifer Hillukka and family; Stonelake; Cody & Natasha Vanatta and family; WAUKEGAN: Amy Laitala; Brian Laitala; Mattila and Grace; Millie Mattila; Dorothy Elmer & Helen Hillukka; Peter & Kathryn Jared & Brina Vanatta and family; Alan & Liz Ruth Mueller; Dan Niskanen; Ruth Niskanen; Nevala; Dave & Karen Raisanen; Gary & Sarah Hillukka and family; Todd & Bria Hillukka and Wikman and family; Bob & Kay Wikman; Eric & Karl Niskanen; Evelyn Rautiola; Tim & Christine Schwab; Wade & Judy Siltala and family; Zach & family; Tim & Katelyn Hillukka and family; Tim Shelley Wikman and family; Dave & Heather Niskanen and family; Aron Niskanen; Ben Susan Siltala and family; Curt & Wendy & Pauliina Hillukka and family; Ross & Denise Wittenberg and family Niskanen; Steven Niskanen; Roseannah Simonson and family; Doug & Lana Wisuri and Hillukka and family; Darrin & Tracie Hoikka and Niskanen; Jacob Niskanen; Nathaniel Niskanen family; Aaron Wuollet; Eva Wuollet; Karlo & family; Colin Huhta; Mark & Jenna Huhta and Colorado Katelyn Wuollet and family family; Cheryl Huston; Larina Jarvi; Nate & Heidi Johnson and family; Jon & Elizabeth ROARING FORK VALLEY: Blaise & Carmen Massachusetts ELK RIVER: Aarre & Ellen Aho; Elias & Diane Juntunen; Brandon & Lea Jurmu and family; Byman; Brett & Brianna Byman and family; WEST BARNSTABLE: Mary Pelton; Bill & Lisa Aho; Samra Aho; Sara Aho; Sam & Jennifer Brian & Hannah Jurmu and family; Charlie & Bryson Byman; Chandler Byman; Darren & Rasku; Wayne Rasku; Alice Sorvo Byman and family; Joe & Janet Griffitts and Karen Jurmu and family; Jeremy & Tina Jurmu Kristen Byman and family; Ken & Ann Byman and family; Dan & Gina Haapala and family; Mark & and family; Jim & Barb Jurmu; Nate & Shelby family; Kyle & Jill Byman and family; Torrey & Merja Hillukka; Paul & Joy Hillukka; Ben & Jurmu and family; Phil & Sarah Jurmu and Beth Byman and family; Bradley & Ella Fredrick- Michigan Janelle Huhta and family; Lea Huhta; Barbara family; Tanner & Alissa Jurmu and family; Kate Lever; Kevin & Jean Moll and family; Helen Parks Juusola; Ken & Kari Kako and family; Dean & son and family; Craig & Leanna Fredrickson and DETROIT: Alfie & Anele Aho; Chuck & Joann and family; Adrian & Mary Pirness and family; Sharon Kallinen and family; Steven & Aila Lydia; Dan & Rdee Grangroth and family; Derek & Honkala; Jeff & Lindsay Kumpula and family; Ari & Suzanne Pitkanen; Paul & Marilyn Kallinen; Steve & Tracy Karvonen and family; Darla Grangroth and family; Justin & Andrea Lori Kurtti; Patricia Kurtti Grangroth and family; Tony & Lori Grangroth and Pylvainen; Steven & Sara Randall and family; Rachel Keplinger; Richard & Michelle Keranen Wayne & Becky Randall and family; Tom & Janet and family; Paul & Jana Keranen and family; Jon family; Anna and Naomi Halonen; Art & Val Harju ISHPEMING: Roy & Bethany Byman and Skoog and family; Dave & Becky Stewart & Diane Kesti and family; Ken & Edna Kesti; Tim and family; Ben & Kaylin Harju and family; boys; Glen & Carla Edwards; Jack & Rita & Debbie Kesti and family; Adam & Lisa Keskey Rachel Hendrickson; Brent & Trista Herrala and Edwards; Elaine Frantti; James & Krista Haapala MENAHGA: Jane Alanen; Jon & Sarah and family; Mark & Ruth Kiviahde and family; family; Dave & Kara Herrala and family; Alex & and family; Bob & Carol Haapala and Mark; Bloomquist and family; Glen & Carolyn Pete & Natalie Kiviahde and family; Steve & Laura Janckila and family; Ken & Deanna Janckila Mike & Emily Hill and family; Peter & Sue Hill Byykkonen; Josh & Melanie Byman and family; Gretchen Kiviahde and family; Don & Debbie and family; Adrienne Jurmu; Alex & Whitney and family; Katherine Honkala; Mark & Aleta Ben & Jessica Erickson and family; Faye Erickson; Kujala; Allen & Brittany Kumpula and family; Jurmu and family; Daniel & Joan Jurmu and Honkala and family; Ann Illikainen; Christina Jon & Michelle Erickson and family; Michael & Kevin & Brenda Kumpula and family; Aaron & family; Eli Jurmu; Eric & Jessica Jurmu and Jacobson; Ken & Verna Jacobson; Jim & Peggy Glynn; Bruce & Tiffany Haataja and Anita Laho and family; Matt & Megan Laho and family; Jake & Amanda Jurmu and family; Jayson Kathleen Keplinger and Rachel; Brian & Maria family; Eric & Rachel Haataja; Margie Haataja; family; Dave & Jody Lahti and family; Peter & & Kim Jurmu and family; Jen Jurmu; Logan & Kuopus and family; Janet Kuopus; Lisa C. Mark & Kirstie Haataja and family; Steve & Pat Emily Lampi and family; James & Nichole Landa Erika Jurmu and family; Matt & Sue Jurmu and Kuopus; Mike & Lisa Kuopus; Peter & Doris Haataja; Keith & Karen Hillstrom and family; and family; Marcus & Amy Landa and family; family; Patrick & Elle Jurmu and family; Sam & Kuopus; Evan & Maria Loukusa and girls; Eric & Kurt Hillstrom; Zach & Krista Hillstrom; Duane & Roger & Alison Laulainen and family; David & Barbara Jurmu and family; Tiffany Jurmu; Tom & Katrina Mattila and family; Dan Oja; Jerry & Margo Hillukka; Karlo & Peggy Hillukka and Crystal Lee and family; Don & Jeanette Lehtola Leann Jurmu and family; Brandon & Rachael Margaret Oja; Mary Petaisto; Tom Prophet; family; Kerry & Deanna Hillukka; Kevin Hillukka; and family; Perry & Brita Loukusa and family; Keranen and family; Carolyn Keranen; Jeremy & Cheryl Rintamaki; Dan & Marilyn Rintamaki; Norman & Charlotte Hillukka; Randy & Katie Kevin & Nicole Loukusa and family; Daniel & Gloria Keranen and family; Timo & Liza Keranen Lorna Rintamaki and Kent; Duane & Sara Wisuri Hillukka and family; Trisha Hillukka; Matthew & Kate Marjanen and family; Audrey Malone; and family; Michael & Brenda Kumpula and and Kate; Paul & Janet Wisuri and family family; Doug & Jen Laho and family; Andrea Julianne Holden and Addison; Ronald & Naomi Chad & Jana Mattila and family; Heath Mattila; Honga; Ernest & Martha Huhta and family; Steve Craig & Natalie McAdams and family; Keith & Lahti; Dan & Jenny Lahti and family; Nate & PELKIE: Jonathan Anderson; Karissa Anderson; & Nancy Huhta and family; Bob & Bernice Briita Moll and family; Lynnea Moll; Jared & Nicole Marjanen and family; Bradden & Lynsie Matt & Gladys Anderson; Magloire & Marlys Folly; Johnson; Joey & Allison Jurvakainen and family; Linda Muhonen and family; Jordan & Rianne Parks and family; Maaret Petaisto; Mikko & Char Jim & Pat Frantti; Mandy Frantti; Matthew & Brian & Joyce Kallinen and family; Mildred Muhonen and family; Tyler & Sarah Muhonen Petaisto and family; Cath Plough; Kiera Plough; Olivia Frantti and Henry; Albert & Joyce Hongisto; Kallinen; Mike & Maija Kallinen; Arnold & Cindy and family; Leanne Niemela and family; Jeremy Molly Plough; Chase & Dana Ruonavaara and Luke & Tiffany Jurmu and family; Lillian Kehus; Keranen; Dave & Marcy Keranen and family; & Brooke Niemela and family; Logan & Ariana family; Terry & Heidi Ruonavaara and family; Roy & Janet Pikkarainen; Ryan & Anna Pikkara- Robert & Nancy Keranen; Rhita Keskey; Andrew Oja and family; Eric & Celeste Parks and family; Travis & Laurie Ruonavaara and family; Karole inen; Carol Riutta; Flo Sorvala; Joe & Esther & Katie Krey and family; Chris & Caitlin Kumpula Ken & Kirsten Parks and family; Mark & Krista Schwab; Jason & Nellie Strand and family; John Sturos; BJ & Tricia Tervo; Paul & Diane Waaraniemi Waaraniemi; Pete & Amy Waaraniemi and and family; Eugene and Joyce Kumpula; Gerald Parks and family; Jukka & Rachelle Petaisto; family; Amy & Kelly Wittenberg; Brian & & Lorene Kumpula; Gene & Renita Kurtti; Darren & Erika Pirness and family; James & Amy Susanna Wittenberg and family; Keith & Hanna Minnesota Marlene Lake; Jerry & Katie Laulainen and Redman and family; Andrew & Jacque Raisanen Wittenberg and family; Levi & Erica Wittenberg; family; Carolyn Martin; Ron & Carolyn Munger and family; Pierre & Jennifer Raisanen and BRAINERD: Don & Verna Byykkonen; Conner Luke & Kate Wittenberg and family; Tim and family; Jon & Michelle Nevala and family; family; Kelly & Christy Simonson and family; Collette; Mark & Lisa Colette; Steve & Cherri Wittenberg and family; Travis & Courtney Dan & Wendy Parks; Glen & Bernice Riutta; Ed Kirk & Tracie Simonson and family; Kyle & Colette and family; Carole Edwards; Ken Hill; Wittenberg; Trevor Wittenberg & Michelle Ruonavaara and family; Connie Debby Simonson and family; Mark & Kristina Hannah Keranen; Jonathan Keranen; Levi Keskey; Saari and son; Curt & Dory Savela; Dan & Tina Simonson and family; Ron & Melba Simonson; Skoog and family; Joyce Skoog; Mark & Cheryl Jeremy & Anne Strand and family; Gary & Carol Skoog and family; David & JoAnn Vonada and Tiffany and family; Ben & Jennifer Waaraniemi family; Neil & Ruth Waaraniemi; Brian & Becky and family; Timo & Kristen Wuollet and family; Wikman; Harry & Jean Wikman; George Wisuri; Jake & Janine Ylioja and family; Nate & Katie Sam & Kaisa Wuollet and family; Daniel & Kara Ylitalo and family; Ryan & Carolyn Ylitalo and Ylitalo and family; Kermit & Jean Ylitalo; Leslie family; David & Karen Young and family & Sharon Ylitalo ROCKFORD: Kofi & Wendy Agbowada; Lea MINNEAPOLIS: Lee & Jan Fredrickson; Arttu Aho; Andy & Mary Anderson; Joe Anderson; Lars & Eveliina Haho and family; Matt & Hanna & Kristina Anderson and family; Todd & Honga and family; Les & Jean Huhta; Anita Ruthanne Anderson and family; Alfredo & Sarah Kariniemi; Bob & Eeva Kariniemi; Deborah Bravo and Jackson; Iida Byman; Gene & Corinne Kariniemi; Sandra Kariniemi; Mike & Kathy Fredrickson and family; Joel & Maria Fredrickson Koivisto; Johannes & Kaisa Koivukangas and and family; Jer & Lynette Glynn and family; family; Olli & Lynelle Kujala; Zak Kujala; Beverly Robert & Luella Grangroth; Jouko & Pirkko Lehtola; Gary & Lea Lehtola and family; John & Haapsaari and Maria and Jokke; Olli & Charlotte Janelle Lehtola and family; Lee & Tuula Mattila Haho and family; Steve & Sandra Hall and family; and family; James & Chris Ojalehto and family; Victoria Hall; Don & Florence Halonen; Neal & Aaron & Ann Parks; Emily Parks; David & Joan Jean Halonen; Jeff & Karen Hanson and family; PHOTO: ANNE SERVIN

THE VOICE OF ZION DECEMBER 2020 | PAGE 7 Rich & Bonnie Hendrickson; Randy & Noella Strand and family; Chad & Tricia Wuollet and and family; Craig & Diane Simonson and family; Herrala; Eric & Niina Hill and family; Dave & family; Sara Wuollet; Stanley & Susan Wuollet Dale & Diane Simonson; Eric & Jean Simonson; DOKPLALA: Akloyo Komlan Jerôme; Akloyo Charlene Hillstrom; Bruce & Linda Hillukka and Ilona Simonson Akou; Akloyo Kodjo Vincent; Akloyo Afi Emilie; family; Loren & Diane Hillukka and family; Ann Washington Ahiankpor Koffi; Avewoume Komlan Fofo Illikainen; Eric & Maggie Jurmu; Karl Jurmu; Mike Wyoming & Sue Jurmu; Mim Jurmu; Eugene & Gail Kako; LONGVIEW: Katherine & Jean Baptiste ADETIKOPE: Pagnam Etienne; Awolou Aaron & Sara Kariniemi and family; Don & Carol Ametsife; Art and Tammie Byman; Ben Byman; David & Meriel Aho and family; Andrew Edwards; Déborah; Pagnam Amos; Pagnam Edmond; Kariniemi; Mike & Karen Kariniemi and Carson; Bob & Linda Byman; Bryce & Britta Byman; Chad Anya Edwards; Lars & Susie Edwards and family; Pagnam Eric; Pagnam Verfline; Pagnam Jérémie; Matthew & Liisa Keranen and family; Nick & Byman; Conan Byman; Connie Byman; Dan & Dave & Elizabeth Gray and family; Aaron Pagnam Phillipe Whitney Keskey and family; Tyler & Marisa Rebecca Byman; Deanna Byman; Devin & Holly Johnson; Troy & Lori Johnson and family; Phil & Koivisto and family; Gordon & Loraine Kumpula; Byman; Doug & Barby Byman; Erik & Kim Laona Koivukangas and family; Katrina Lake; ADETIKOPE-AWAN: Adodokpo Pierre; Steve & Cheryl Kumpula; Joe & Kathy Laho; Bryce Byman; Jared & Erica Byman; Jayden & Bianca Tyler Lake; Travis Lehtola; Diane Martin; Jake & Adodokpo Eya; Adodokpo Sara; Adodokpo & Emily Lahti; Tim & Jill Lahti; Don & Miriam Byman; Justin & Shari Byman; Karl & Ruthanne Erica Plough and family; Bryn Randall; Courtney Crédo; Adodokpo Jonathan; Adodokpo Sitsopé; Loukusa; Heather Loukusa; Mitchell & Laurel Byman; Lawrence & Barb Byman; Mike & Randall; Nolan Randall; Paul & Sally Randall and Mekpogbe Augustin; Atsou Kokou Geofroy; Ake Loukusa; Pentti & Lori Loukusa; Phillip & Heidi Candace Byman; Nolan & Rachel Byman; Pete family; Will & Roxanne Randall and family; Matt Abraham; Amouzou Kokou; Amouzou Elis; Loukusa and family; Robert & Alison Loukusa Byman; Reuben & Anu Byman; Rich & Beth & Janelle Vonada and family; Nick Vonada Amouzou Pauline; Amouzou Josué and family; Dave & Paulette McAdams; Nathan & Byman; Rory & Brittany Byman; Ross & Anelle Janelle Muhonen and family; Walter & Sylvia Byman; Scott & Katelyn Byman; Steve & Judy Muhonen; Rick & Kathy Nevala and girls; Raino & Byman; Todd & Melissa Byman; Wyatt & Alexa Sarah Niemela; Rod & Elaine Nikula; Eric & Byman; Lance Clarke; Rick & JoAnn Clarke; Andy Martha Oja and family; Harry & Paula Petaisto; & Joanna Davis; Susan Fitzgerald; Sam & Tierra Tom & Irene Redman; Leah Roiko; Mike & Kathy Fitzgerald; Devin & Carlene Grangroth; Judy Simonson; Joel & Rebecca Skoog; Kalevi & Susan Grangroth; Karl & Janelle Haapala; Andrew & Tarnanen; Betty Wuollet; Chuck Ylitalo Cynthia Hakso; Timo Hakso; Clark & Madeline Heim; Hunter & Callie Heim; Michael & Amy WOLF LAKE: Madison Alajoki; Phil & Kari Heim; Mark & Jane Hendrickson; Nate & Emily Alajoki and family; Roger & Lori Alajoki and Hendrickson; Tyler & Miranda Hendrickson; Dave family; Stuart Alajoki; Ken & Arlene Arvola; & Julie Holmstrom; Daniel & Soili Huhta; Derek Nancy Hillukka; Bruce & Susan Johnson and & Amber Huhta; Michael & Julia Huhta; Robert & Claire; Gary & Lakyn Johnson and Edith; Mitchell Tara Huhta; Tim & Joanne Huhta; Tom & Anita & Carmen Johnson and boys; Roger & Lucy Huhta; Wilbert & Rauha Huhta; Maria Johnson; Karvonen; Allen Keranen; Daniel & Peggy Marvin Junes; Mark & Brittany Jurmu; Pete & Keranen and family; Glenn Keranen; Randy & Chris Jurmu; Brian & Alina Jurvakainen; Bruce & Sheila Keranen; Pete & Becky Lahti and family; Martha Jurvakainen; Bruce & Lori Kangas; Carly Mykenzie Lahti; Allen & Amanda Lake and & Trudy Kangas; Phil & Crista Kangas; Chase & family; Andrew & Michelle Lake; Brad & Larissa Kara Keplinger; Galen & Megan Keplinger; PHOTO: ANNE SERVIN Lake and family; Dan & Nicole Lake and family; Loren & Kristen Keplinger; Mike & Sandra Darwin & Becky Lake and family; Egon Lake; Keranen; Tim Keranen; Jon & Laura Kumpula; BENA: Diapena Yawo Timothé; Dotse Ama; Leland & Karen Lake and family; Michael Lake; Dean Laulainen; Linny Laulainen; Loren & Ruth ★ AFRICA Diapena Kokou Stephan; Diapena Esther; Milo Lake; Monty Lake; Pat & Julie Lake and Laulainen; Matt & Joanie Laulainen; Yvonne Diapena Ericsson; Kokovena Viviane; Kokovena family; Patrick Lake; Richard Lake; Ben Makela; Laulainen; Reino & Thelma Lehto; Marc & Holly Togo Oukoui; Kokovena Wasse; Batche Yawa; Gaylord & Emily Makela and Janelle; Jason & Lever; Pete & Karen Lever; Stefan & Monica Obidiaba Afi Madelaine; Obidiaba Isak; Sedame Janel Makela and family; Logan & Jacquelyn Lever; Joe & Deanna Ojalehto; Martha Ojalehto; During this year which is going out, we were Evenunye; Mezedi Edih; Agbewonou Joseph; Makela; Matthew & Kim Makela and family; Mike Nels & Jennifer Plough; Ward & Amanda Plough; dealt some troubles, we have stumbled along Agoliki Adjo; Oune Komi Emmanuel & Andrea Makela and family; Scott & Cassy Griffin & Brooke Riutta; Robby & Maddy Riutta; the way, and we have had doubts due to the Makela and Blake; Greta Maki; Hannah Maki; Ramin & Nicole Shulda; Bryan & Ashley pandemic. But God protects us, as He said in BADOU: Dra Anthony Senyo; Dra Mawouli; Kent Simonson and family; Esa & Anne Vilkama; Simonson; Rita Impola Walker; Sharon Walter; Psalm 91:11, “For He shall give His angels charge Dra Ehona; Dra Yayra; Saboute Abla Tanti; Duane & Carol Waaraniemi; Joe Wuollet; Kevin & Steve & Virginia Wisuri; Ed & Janelle Ylitalo; over you, to keep thee in all thy ways.” All these Assigno Rameaux; Assigno Léontine; Assigno Ranae Wuollet and family Allen & Gabrielle Wuollet temptations which have attempted to give us Dorisse; Lolofe Afi; Lolofe Roland; Assigno weakness are, for us believers, experiences that Akpene; Assigno Akou; Gbesse Kossivi Marco; Montana NORTH SOUND: Jason & Michelle Bowen; grow and strengthen our faith. Azouma Yawa Victorine; Gbesse Adjo Gildas; Bill & Cailyn Davison and family; Brad & Gloriana Gbesse Akou Estelle; Gbesse Kossi Blesse; Gbesse FLATHEAD VALLEY: Aaron & Brooke Huhta; Scott & Christina Huhta and family; Paul You have supported us, you have remembered Kokou Roland; Agbezo Kossi Loukusa and family; Conor & Heather Davison & Janel Jacobson and family; Tom & Crystal us, and you have assisted us in many ways, and and family; Stacy Janckila; Craig & Kathryn Johnson and family; Gabe Karvonen; Nick & we are very thankful. We, Togo believers, want ZANGUERA: Fiodendji Orland Yao; Dopé; Siltala and family; Tom & Megan Kumpula and Kirsti Lang and family; Tina Lever; Dennis to wish to the LLC staff and all believers in the Fiodendji Marth; Fiodendji Gustav; Fiodendji family; Lisa Haataja; Jon & Kris Jurvakainen and Niemela; Karl & Janet Niemela and family; Lilly world Merry Christmas, and many blessings of Elianna; Fiodnedji Silascio; Houateme Akossiwa; family; Dan & Mary Grangroth and family; Niemela; Shane Niemela; Mitch & Kayla Niemela God for a happy coming year 2021! Foly Joseph; Foly Eugène; Foly Augustin Darren & Nicky Wuollet and family; Andy & and family; Andrew Ojala; Melody Ojala; Mariah Denise Loukusa; Derek & Morgan Kumpula and Ojalehto; Phil & Nicole Ojalehto and family; LOME: Deh Koffi Ametepe; Djamessi Akouvi KPALIME: Amedjonekou Sherif K.; Amed- family; Matt & Sarah Rintamaki and family; Troy Brandon & Stephanie Westerinen and family; Cécile; Deh Kossi Kevin; Deh Ablavi Gracia; Deh jonekou Akpene; Adangbledou Kofi; Adang- & Crystal Muhonen and family Bruce Westerinen; Cody & Laura Westerinen and Akos Jessica; Deh A. Tricia; Deh A. Sinikka; Deh bledou Mawufemo; Agbenoxevi Afi; Zoyikpo girls; Darrell Westerinen Kodjo Kenneth; Fiodendji Kossigan Paul; Degbe Mawusi K.; Zoyikpo Adzo; Toviekou Koffi; Awitor New York/Connecticut Kossiwa Chantal; Fiodendji Louis; Fiodendji Atsu Komlan; Adzogenou Koudjovi; Adzogenou SEATTLE: Landon & Jayden Byman and family; Albert; Fiodendji Thomas; Fiodendji Ebenedith; Koffi; Yovokplodo Daunald; Amedome Nana; ULSTER PARK/BETHEL: James Aho; Mike & Kara Grady and family; Hanna Haataja Doke Komlan Augustin; Sronvi Kafui; Doke Kossi Agbeme Amen; Amedjonekou Kevin; Amed- Nathan & Heidi Aho and family; Sanford Aho; and family; Lance & Jeanne Karvonen and Fernando; Doke Koffi Noel; Doke Ruth; jonekou Jessica; Amedjonekou Yann; Amed- Virginia Aho family; Skip & Rita Lang; Harley & Marleigh Lang Houateme Justin Yawo; Azianou Elise Akouvi; jonekou Nelly; Adzoda Emmanuel; Adang- and family; Bryce & Brooke Loukusa and Boden; Houateme Ablavi Sylvia; Houateme Komlan bledou Kekeli; Adangbledou Victoire; North Dakota Dick & Melissa Loukusa and family; David & Beth Victor; Houateme Kossiwa Parfaite; Houateme Adangbldou Charlotte; Zoyikpo Joël; Zoyikpo Ojala and family; Emery & Sonja Ojala and Komlan Junior; Houateme Kossivi; Gossou Nicole; Zoyikpo Elisabeth ROLLA: family; Karl Ojalehto; Janne & Outi Olli and Chris & Cherie Belgarde and Lydia; Akossiwa; Houateme Abla Gloria; Fiodendji K. KOUMA-APOTI: Lyman & Bonnie Bercier; Jed & Terri Hanson family; Lowell Plough; Scott & Paula Simonson Bernard; Akakpo Jeannette; Fiodendji François; Kokoroko Fofo; Kokoroko and family and family; John & Karen Stewart and family; Fiodendji Noé; Fiodendji Pierrette; Fiodendji Peter; Kokoroko Espoir; Kokoroko Clara; Sean & Mandy Wuollet and girls Ruth; Flinssou Anani; Adegno Antoinette; Kokoroko Eyram; Kokoroko Diki; Ayissah Sonia; WILLISTON: Aaron & Miltsu Anderson and Flinssou Abla Dénise; Flinssou Kokou Maxime; Togboe Delali; Mawusi Gogno; Mawusi Novinyo; family; Brady & Vanessa Byman and family; Jeff SPOKANE: Wayne & Julie Davison and family; Flinssou Yawa Eyram; Talke Tchalanwè Paul; Mawusi Pauline; Aka Edossi; Toure Serge; & Anna Byman and family; Tanner & Anika Todd & Connie Erickson and family; Bob & Kathy Talke Gnimtou Reine; Talke Jean; Tomno Naka; Assiamua Aitel; Santou Koffi Adzido; Degboevi Collette and family; Drew & Anna McEleney and Kesti; Tim & Judy Krey; Dave & Tammi Lehto and Togbenou-Folly Yves; Sewa-Dovi Akuètè; Sokpo Atsu; Ametowu Atah Kossi; Moko Toveto; family; Davin & Rebecca Grangroth and family; family; Doug & Arja Lever; Jamie & Karen Lever Atou; Agogloui Komlan; Hounkpevi Vessescia; Assiamua Sirus; Assiamua Lors; Assiamua Paul & Debra Herrala and family; Peter & Greta and family; Carl & Mary Maki; Ranaye Motari; Agnave Kofi Mawouéna; Deh Komlan; Afidegnon Jérémi; Segbefia Kafui Kimmo & Katelyn Nevala and family; Craig & Huhta and family; Dan & Elizabeth Jacobson Isidore; Ametsife Emmanuel; Mebewokpo TCHEKPO-DEDEKPOE: and family; Bruce & Rita Keranen and family; Shannon Niemela and family; John & Eva Amélie; Ametsife Armo; Ametsife Gloria; Avode Komlan; John & Buffy Lahti and family; Steve & Lois Laiho Niemala; Ken & Debbie Niemela; Rena Niemela; Ametsife Marion; Ametsife Tara; Ametsife Avode Afi Komforte; Adodanou Déborah; Foovi and family; Tim & Melinda Kallio and family; Francis & Ashley Pirness and family; Brian & Aymon-Jo; Gaba Agbeko Alain; Tossoukpe Afi; Foovi Adjo; Adjognon Afito; Vivon Fulber- Derek & Michelle Mattila and family; Phil & Bethany Randall and Atticus; Jason & Amanda Désiré; Gaba Kokouvi Julio Morgan; Keuviakeu tino; Assignon Kokou Raphaël; Assignon Afi Caroline Mattila; Ed & Angie Rintamaki and Ruonavaara and family; Roger & Iris Plough and Ayoko Mabelle; Soulivi Koffi Koko; Koutsronwo Alice; Assignon Abla; Assignon Kokou; Gadjenou family; Loren & Gerry Seppala; Ryan & Rosa family; Stephanie Sari; Brett & Kolet Simonson Eva Blandine Abla; Agbolou Koffi; Touhome Ama; Fiodendji

PAGE 8 | DECEMBER 2020 THE VOICE OF ZION Abla; Kounake Abla; Kondo Akouvi; Missiga ★ JÄMSÄ: Irja & Aarno Janhunen; Minna : Irma & Hannu Kallunki and family Dora; Assignon Komi; Sonoga Félicité; Assignon Janhunen; Anna-Leena & Heikki Kankkonen; Akokouvi; Aziave Finin; Zogbemah Kodjo; Gnadji Päivi & Erkki Tikkanen; Raili & Timo Tuomisto : Maija-Liisa & Alpo Pikkarainen Akossiwa; Assignon Akou Madelaine; Assignon Adjo; Assinon Akou Rashel; Assignon Collette; JÄMSÄ KR. OPISTO: Rhetta Hillukka; Alani : Lasse Karttunen; Arja & Juha Toljamo Avoyi; Dzogbemah Olli Romppanen Huotari; Alan Jurmu; Audrey Kumpula; Amber and family Moll; Virpi & Jukka Palola; Olivia Skoog TABLIGBO: Aglebe Faustin; Aglebe Antoi- Finland RANUA KR. OPISTO: Jari & Tuuli Hintsala nette; Ativon Kodjovi; Ativon Ama; Baragbon KANNONKOSKI: SRK BOARD OF DIRECTORS Tuula & Johannes and family; Asko & Sirkka Illikainen and family; Kossi; Baragbon Adjowa; Sowou; Sowou Ayaba; Leppänen Harri & Katri Isopahkala and family; Vesa Jurmu; Edoh Yao; Edoh Adjo; Amouzou Kokou; "He that dwelleth in the secret place of the Sauli & Helena Laivamaa and family; Jouni & Amouzou Noélie; Gomavo; Tebou Kayi; most High shall abide under the shadow of KANNUS: Marja-Liisa & Matti Taskila Riitta Lohi and family; Eero & Anna-Maija Amouzou Jean; Amouzou Ama Honorine; the Almighty. I will say of the LORD, He is my Österberg and family; Sari Puurunen; Maikki Adimado Pascal; Adimado Barthelemy; Aglebe refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will : Anelma & Tauno Hanhela; Hillevi Toljamo; Dan & Mario Waaraniemi and family; Judith Yawa; Amouzou and Children; Adjavon I trust" (Ps. 91:1–2). & Eero Nuolioja Ranua Opisto’s North American students Afi; Adja and children; Azankpo Nelson Amevi; Azankpo Daniel Koffi; Ameganvi Rameau Kossi; We have lived a very exceptional time this past : Seppo Kela and family; Maire & REISJÄRVI KR. OPISTO: Eveliina Immonen; Bokovi Fabrice Yawovi; Atanley Bouki Afi; Aglebe year in the life and work of God’s Kingdom. Our Keith Kosola; Markus & Sarah Lohi and family; & Jorma Kauppila; Outi Miettunen; Anni & Odile Dora; Awesso Julienne; Boko Davi plans didn’t materialize in the form and shape Elma & Heikki Partanen Valtteri Laitila and family; Minna & Jarkko Jeannette; Boko Dagan Jeanne; N’tougnui Alex; we thought they would. God had different plans. Paalavuo and family N’tougnui Bernard; Atanley Foumi; Atanley At the turn of the year, we feel much thankful- KOKEMÄKI: Irja & Veikko Ruusuvuori and Bosseh; Kontevi Fulbert Koffi; Adododji Larissa ness for the blessings we were able to experience family REVONLAHTI: Hilkka & Aimo Hautamäki and Afi; Senou Florentine Akouvi; Aglebe Clémence in arranging big services and different work family Yawa; Adenka Clarisse; Senou Céline Ado; forms this exceptional year. : Leena & Pertti Ervasti; Ashlee Olokona Germaine; Kowouvi Sylvie & Ville Oikarainen and Adalmiina; Paula & SIILINJÄRVI: Arja & Ilkka Hakulinen Thank you, dear North American sisters and Pekka Toivonen KESSIBO: Dekpone Mawuli; Dekpone brothers, for the past year and good coopera- SUOMUSSALMI: Minna Kaikkonen Damaico; Dekpone Prissaille; Dekpone Ruth; tion, for example in radio work! Our correspon- LAPPEENRANTA: Riikka Lumme Ihou Novinyo; Adjado Jonathan; Adiatsi Kodjo; dence and communication are imbued with : Sirkku & Sulo Kaijala; Aila Adiatsi Sodjinè; Tsogbe Pierre; Tsogbe Firmène; mutual Christian love and unity, for which we LAUKAA: Saara & Reijo Peura Vääräniemi; Aini Vääräniemi and family; Hilda & Adjado Confort; Akpalou Akana; Akpalou Bella; feel much joy and thankfulness. Eero Vääräniemi and family Fiadewonou Ama; Adiatsi Ama; Hallo Justin; LOHJA: Laila & James Kakko Atigan Claire; Hallo Emil; Gbeve Victor; Gbeve We wish you and your loved ones a blessed : Jessica & Markus Saulamaa and Baby; Gbeve Donné; Apemevi Holanyo; Apemevi birthday celebration of our Savior as well as : Rauha & Martti Kujala family; Marja-Liisa & Veikko Sivula Vénunyé; Apemevi Edem; Apemevi Papa; God’s guidance and protection for the year 2021! Apemevi Kossi; Apemevi Nadège; Apemevi MADEKOSKI: Maritta & Jukka Tervo : Anna-Liisa & Alpo Isotalus; Johanna Donné; Adjado Raun; Adjado Rita; Adjado Ruth; Ilkka Hakulinen; Hannu Kallunki; Ilari & Krister Kinnunen and family Adjado Richard; Lindon Emmanuel; Lindon Yao; Kinnunen; Tapani Kinnunen; Tapani Kirsilä; MERIJÄRVI: Taina & Ari-Pekka Palola Loumon Afi; Mensa Yawa; Mensa Kokou; Ilmari Korhonen; Esa Koukkari; Jukka Lehto; TYRNÄVÄ: Pentti & Lauri Ahola; Vellamo & Agbodjalou Kokou; Agbodjalou Atsou; Agbod- Jouko Luukkonen; Timo Mauno; Aapo Mäen- : Kaisu & Pekka Kyllönen Toivo Ikola; Kaija & Tapani Tölli jalou Etsè; Agbodjalou Enyo; Dotse Atsou; pää; Taisto Määttä; Matti Niemelä; Kalevi Dzere Bamitié; Attigan Pierrette; Attigan Atta; Niemikorpi; Valde Palola; Pekka Peltomäki; MÄNTSÄLÄ: Anna-Liisa Miettinen; Tea & : Oili & Hannu Linna and family; Veera Attigan Kodjo; Attigan Akossi; Nougbessou Reijo Peura; Kimmo Puolitaival; Jussi Rentola; Matti Miettinen and family & Tuomas Linna and family; Sinikka & Juhani Elizabeth; Awade Elom; Kassa Abra; Lossou Heikki Saarikoski; Ilpo Saukkonen; Matti Rautakoski and family Isaac; Lossou Nathalie; Lossou Vénunyé; Lossou Taskila; Pekka Tuomikoski; Jorma Vuorma : Ulla & Raimo Österberg Noa; Ayewada Yawa; Kassa Odil; Mawugbe VANTAA: Marika Humalajoki; Auli-Maria Armine; Awussu You Kokou; Kassa Ama; Awusso SRK PUBLICATIONS EDITORIAL NURMIJÄRVI: COUNCIL: Merja & Kari Humalajoki and Toljamo; Maija-Liisa & Pekka Tervo Forgive; Awussu Mafille; Awussu Constant; Hannu Kallunki; Jari Kupsala; Kirsti family; Jenni & Michael Huotari and family; Afola Ama; Boutsa Monika; Boutsa Adjo; Kedezi Nurkkala; Ari Pelkonen; Erkki Piri; Aarno Sassi; Eila & Matti Tölli and family : Eija & Tommi Hietala and family Adjo; Adiatsi Etsè; Adiatsi Atsou; Adiatsi Markku Seppänen; Marjaana Typpö Atsoupé; Adiatsi Enyonam; Atigan Philip; : YLÖJÄRVI: SRK OFFICE STAFF: Kaarina & Matti Lahtinen and Leena & Matthew Aho and family; Hassim Françoise; Toyekpo God’s Way; Toyekpo Hanna Aho; Sasu family Marianne & Pekka Kivilompolo and family; Kristina Confort; Ouklo Kossi; Ouklo Elébé; Adibogou Hartikainen; Marika Hietala; Jaana Hiltunen; & Erik Niemi and family; Leila & Heikki Saulamaa Paul; Adibogou Joêl; Adibogou Julienne; Adiatsi Maija-Leena Holmi; Kaisa Ikonen; Katri : Raija & Osmo Alamäki; Kaija-Leena & Akossi; Adiatsi Iyabo; Adiatsi Iduane; Adiatsi Isopahkala; Suvi Joensuu; Juha Kaarivaara; Juha Alanko; Piia & Juha Haapsaari and family; Adinane; Weledi Jeanne; Wiftou Lilas Pekka Kainua; Hanna Kallunki; Pekka Karjula; Elli & Timo Hentilä and family; Ulla-Riitta & Leo Sisko-Liisa Karsikas; Miika Kopperoinen; Mirja Holappa; Marja & Esa Koukkari; Sirkka-Liisa & AKOUMAPE: Deh Ama; Keteya; Kini; Korkiakoski; Pirkko Laurila; Sirkka Lehto; Liisa Hannu Leinonen; Leena & Juhani Liukkonen; SFC BOARD OF DIRECTORS Awoukou Louhasalmi; Eija Lukka; Petri Lukka; Juha Minna & Mauri Nissilä and family; Säde-Pirkko & "And he shall stand and feed in the strength of Luokkala; Elise Luokkanen-Pylvänäinen; Veli Keijo Nissilä; Aino & Antti Paananen; Liisa & the LORD, in the majesty of the name of the AMLAKOPE: Djogbessi Kwami; Aklamanou Luukkonen; Päivi Martikainen; Matias Muhola; Tony Riutta; Leena & Oiva Savela; Raija LORD his God; and they shall abide: for now Akpédjé; Djogbessi Kwassi Amos; Djogbessi Maarit Määttä; Juhani Ojalehto; Olli Lasse; Sääskilahti; Lauri, Airi & Risto Tokola; Hannele shall he be great unto the ends of the earth" Komlan Emmanuel; Djogbessi Afi Bénédite; Ari-Pekka Palola; Henna Pärkkä; Arja Rauta- Vanhala; Impi & Pentti Vinnurva; Raili & Olavi (Micah 5:4). Djogbessi Koffi Winner koski; Maarit Rehu; Sirkka Suominen; Asko Voittonen; Arja & Jorma Vuorma Syrjälä; Ilkka Tahkola; Eeva Tiirola; Päivi Timlin; Wishing you all a Joyous Christmas and a ATIME: Ametsife Koffi David; Agbowada Sirkka-Liisa Turtinen; Minna Tölli; Elina Vihelä; : Helena & Seppo Lindroos Blessed New Year 2021! Kodjo Prosper; Tsogbetse Kodjo Lébénè; Harri Vähäjylkkä and Lars Niemi; Aulikki & Matti Lääkkö; Arja & Tsokplo Atsouvi; Kita Baby; Kpeli Afi; Gadze SRK CAMP STAFF: Toivo Määttä Matti Heikkinen; Veli-Matti Heikkinen; Hans Komla Paul-Vincent; Goka Koudzo; Egle Ama; Anne Harmaala; Tarja Hjalmarsson; Juhani Huhtakangas; Markus Ameyapo Adzo; Agbali Atsoupé; Ampofo Hyväri; Päivi Jaakola; Ritva Käräjäoja; Elise OULUNSALON SALONPÄÄ: Irma & Erkki Kanniainen; Tero Lehtola; Timo Löppönen; Akoua; Tsogbetse Koffi; Tsogbetse Hervé; Körkkö; Soili Ollila; Reima Riikola; Sarianna Vähäsöyrinki Pekka Ojanne; Jyrki Pitkälä; Pasi Pärkkä; Konou Eli; Dogbevi Richard; Akpadze Edi; Suominen Assar Turunen; Aki Vähäjylkkä Ametepe Koffi Michel; Dogbe Afi Charlotte; PATENIEMI: ESPOO: Kirsi & Eero Nurkkala and family Dogbe Koffi Richard; Ametsife Adzo Evéline; Merja & Hans Petäistö; Raija Pirkkola; DALARNA: Iiris & Kalervo Lehtola Tsokplo Kossiwa Angèle; Tsokplo Yawo Nestor; Eila & Jorma Niinikoski PATTIJOKI: Hilkka & Jouko Karhumaa; Liisa & Apedo Kossi Aude; Ametsife Gérard; Ametsife HAAPAJÄRVI: Eero Kinnunen and family; Tuovi & Olli Lohi and Estelle; Tetou Espoir; Betu Komla Espoir; Betu Liisa & Erkki Savela; Marja & family; Raija & Vesa Tahkola; Maria & Veli-Martti ★ SOUTH AMERICA Adzo Beatrice; Betu Amivi Emilie; Gblometsi Heikki Syrjäniemi Sivula and family; Sylvi & Antero Veteläinen Atsou Fabrice; Amewotowou Akou Adéline; : Ecuador Afoumon Afi Kafui; Evowossi Afi Victoire; Kerttu & Aimo Kangasharju PERHO: Riika & Pasi Kanniainen and family Adenovi Komla Edoh; Adenovi Komi Bright; QUITO: : Panizo-Toapanta family; Toapanta- Adenovi Komi Toussaint; Aziavon Doris; Terttu & Pekka Ikonen; Pirjo PIELAVESI: Arja & Sakari Yrjänä and family Guerrero family; Teodoro Hernández & Elvita Aziavon Honoré; Aziavon Koffi Richard; & Juha Kaarivaara; Noora & Miika Kopperoinen Enríquez; Rojas-Toapanta family; Juan Miguel & Komiza Débora; Komiza Atsou; Blewussi and family PIHTIPUDAS: Kati & Hannu Inkeroinen Luz Santana; Lourdes Salas; Luis Cabrera & Akouvi; Yovo Gédéon; Yovo Kokou Christ; : Fabiola Guallimba; Adela Mean & Janeth Dekor Komi; Konou Marcelin; Konou Thérèse; Esa Penttinen PYHÄNTÄ: Sari & Jarkko Koskelo and family; Chungandro; Roberto, Israel & Arminda Konou Charlotte; Konou Léonard; Akagna JYVÄSKYLÄ: Liisa & Mikko Tahkola and family Vazcones; Chungandro-Pozo Family; Teresa Komla Ignace Eira & Pentti Saulio Correa & Nietos

THE VOICE OF ZION DECEMBER 2020 | PAGE 9 Christmases Past and Present Our First Christmas Far Away

Steve and Pauline Loukusa Zach and Kara Johnson days before Christmas by myself. I was not feeling much holiday cheer just yet, although Christmas KARL OJALEHTO is an 85-year-old widower. Saima, his wife of A YEAR AGO, IN 2019, RXUÀUVW&KULVWPDVLQ Eve was just a few days away. many years, passed away three years ago. We visited with Karl, Alaska was fast approaching, and our home was When arrived, we were who is an uncle to both of us, about the Christmas season as he ÀOOHGZLWKVLFNFKLOGUHQ:HZHUHJHWWLQJKLW PLUDFXORXVO\IUHHIURPIHYHUVVQLIÁHVFRXJKV views it in his stage of life. with every virus out there, one kid after the next and colds. Thankful the kids were feeling better, Visiting about Christmas brings Karl back to Christmases past, after the next. I began to wonder if we were ever we prepared to go to church. After Christmas those spent in his childhood home in Clatskanie, Ore. There on going to get better. The normal hustle and bustle Eve services, we spent the evening at Nick and Christmas Eve, the family took a sauna, after which they ate their of Christmas back home with family and friends Julie’s, playing charades, taking saunas, eating Christmas meal. The traditional meal consisted of potatoes with in Minnesota was replaced with a feeling of and laughing. It turned into a magical Christmas ZKLWHVDXFHYHJHWDEOHVDQGOXWHÀVN/XWHÀVNLVGULHGFRGRUVRPH sadness and illness throughout the home. It wore Eve by candlelight. Santa still had some deliver- RWKHUZKLWHÀVKZKLFKLVSLFNOHGLQO\HDVDSUHVHUYDWLYH/\HZDV on everybody. ies to make, so the elves were up late that used because salt was not always available in earlier years. I was unable to prepare for the holidays as I Christmas Eve night. Later the family read the Christmas gospel from the Finnish normally would have because there wasn’t time, When Christmas Day dawned, and the Bible, sang Finnish Christmas songs and opened gifts. When and Christmas would soon be here. Nor could we excitement had quieted, the kids made video midnight came, they had tea served with prune tarts and pulla. make visiting plans because we could not be sure calls to family back home. As I was cleaning the They also celebrated Tapani, Karl’s father, whose birthday was on the kids would be well. My heart wasn’t in the kitchen, I began to feel far away from home. I Christmas Day. usual holiday spirit, but we played Christmas EHFDPHVDGWKDWWKLV\HDUIRUWKHÀUVWWLPHZH On Christmas morning, the family went to the big church in hymns and songs, and made the best of what we would not keep our usual holiday traditions. I Astoria, Ore., for Christmas services, where a visiting minister often had. We set up the , the kids wondered whether Christmas would ever feel the served. They always opened the Christmas service with “From decorated it, and we baked holiday specialties. same as it felt in Minnesota. heav’n above to earth I come,” song 16 in our current hymnal. The week of Christmas arrived, and sickness Gradually, I came to realize that things had One memorable Christmas occurance happened when Karl was still lingered in the house. We were preparing to changed now. We would have to make our own ÀYH\HDUVROG+LVIDWKHU7DSDQLKDGEHHQDZD\IRUVHYHUDOPRQWKV spend Christmas cozied up by the tree and traditions. Those new traditions are what our on a speaking trip. When he came home just before Christmas, snuggling with the kids, since we weren’t sure if kids will hold dear in their hearts as I so dearly Karl saw him and ran to hide behind his mother. “Who is that we could spend Christmas Eve with Zach’s brother hold my own childhood memories. My thoughts man,” he asked. Mother replied that that is his father. Karl had not Nick and Julie and family. I went shopping a few turned to the reason for this season – Jesus. He is recognized him due to the big handlebar mustache Tapani had with us wherever we are in the world, and we grown while he was away! know that we carry a gift within ourselves. Karl recalls that in those days it was not unusual for ministers to These thoughts comforted and calmed me. And be away for three or more months at a time. They only traveled by despite the longing for home, I decided to be train or car, and they often held services in one location for a week thankful for technology, because we could still DWDWLPH.DUOVD\VWKHÀUVWWLPHKLVIDWKHUÁHZRQDQDLUSODQHIRU be connected in some way to family back home a speaking trip was in 1953. this blessed season. In Karl’s childhood Christmases, he and his siblings usually We attended the Christmas Day service, and received one present. As a small child, Karl admired his father’s then we went visiting to Nate and Riita Maki’s. gold pocket watch, which had a cover that sprang open. It was There were other families there visiting also, and attached to a chain and his father often kept it in his vest pocket. it was a wonderful, blessed Christmas Day. The When Karl was three or four years old, he received a toy pocket kids happily played and the adults visited. Going watch for Christmas. His younger brother Martin received a toy KRPHWKDW&KULVWPDVQLJKWRXUKHDUWVZHUHÀOOHG tractor, but he really like Karl’s toy watch. Karl had to hide his watch with joy – joy of new beginnings, new friends, the and bring it out only when Martin was napping. holiday spirit, good health and most importantly, Karl remembers one childhood Christmas when they nearly had joy of our faith. We found comfort among DKRXVHÀUH+LVVLVWHU(LOD²DVNLOOHGGHFRUDWRU²KDGIHVWLYHO\ believers during the holiday season and knew that decorated the buffet by a window. The decoration included candles God cares for us wherever we are in the world. along with cotton to emulate snow. One evening, one of the lit Many blessings to all in this blessed Christmas FDQGOHVWLSSHGRYHUFDWFKLQJWKHFRWWRQRQÀUHDQGQHDUO\VSUHDG- Johnson cousins on Christmas Eve: Callie, Peter, season! ) ing to the window drapes. Victor Byman, who was visiting that Theodore, Madelyn, Kimberly, Robin and Melanie. HYHQLQJJUDEEHGWKHFRWWRQDQGWKUHZLWRQWKHÁRRU(LODZKR was fortunately washing dishes at that moment, hurried into the URRPDQGWKUHZWKHGLVKZDWHURYHUWKHFRWWRQDQGSXWRXWWKHÀUH “Not even a single dish broke,” Karl reminisces. Christmas includes long-lasting traditions. One of Karl’s favorite traditions is VXRODNDOD salted salmon. His mother and father always made suolakala at Christmastime. Karl continues this tradition, making suolakala for his family’s Christmas gathering yet today. One festive tradition that is part of Karl’s Christmases today are the cards and letters and Christmas greetings that he receives from believers locally and across the country. It is especially enjoyable to receive photos of people that he has not seen for a long time. As yet another Christmas approaches, Karl most often thinks of past Christmases that were spent with Saima and the children. Karl still can gather with family, and that brings him much happiness. The most joy, however, comes from remembering the PHOTOS: KARA JOHNSON birth of Jesus, which brings light to the season. It is the reason we Tim and Sue Sturos (back row, left) visited a reindeer farm in Palmer, Alaska, with Kara and Zach Johnson celebrate Christmas. ) (back row, right) and (front row, left to right) Kimmy, Callie, Teddy Maddy and Zane.

PAGE 10 | DECEMBER 2020 THE VOICE OF ZION PHOTOS COURTESY OF BRIDGET YLITALO Jeff and Bridget Ylitalo, with their children (L-R) Connor, Bo and Jayda, work on their tree farm throughout the year to prepare for the busy pre-Christmas sales. Our Christmas Tree Farm

Bridget Ylitalo spend time walking around together, soaking in the fresh, crisp winter air, and they couldn’t think of anywhere else so tranquil. WE WERE NOT PLANNING on being tree farmers, much less proprietors of a Many tree shoppers comment on the peace and serenity among the trees. Many Christmas Tree Farm. After marriage and a move from Colorado, Jeff and I bought a appreciate the simplicity of being out in quiet nature. When they speak, I see the beauty beautiful place in the countryside of Cokato, Minnesota, to settle in. There was an old of Minnesota’s landscape through their eyes. God made it perfect. farmhouse on some acreage with roughly 12,000 small evergreen trees. Jeff and I, along with our 3 children, Connor, Jayda and Bo, work on the tree farm “What in the world are we going to do with all these trees? Live in a forest?” I throughout the year. In the spring we usually plant new seedlings. Some people buy and wondered. My Dad, Mark Kotila, (who soon after was called to his heavenly home) transplant trees in the spring and fall. In the summertime, we only use our tree farm for suggested, “Sell them as Christmas trees!” We did. We patched up the old farmhouse riding the trails on our four-wheeler. When the weather cools off, we spend lots of time and burrowed in. Since the old house and garage have a red tin roof, my dad always before the Christmas tree season opens, mowing, cutting dead trees and burning brush. referred to our place as the “Red Roof Ranch.” That’s how we got the name “Red Roof After the end of the season, we use the trails in the trees for snowmobiling and cross- Tree Farm.” country skiing. The acreage with the many, many trees provides great opportunity for After the spruce trees grew for a couple more years, we began inviting friends to our family to be together – to work and to play. FRPHFXWGRZQD&KULVWPDVWUHHLIWKH\ZHUHLQWHUHVWHG7KRVHÀUVW\HDUVZHUHSUHWW\ The Christmas tree farm we have started, has grown into our hearts and is much more quiet until word started spreading in our small village of Cokato. Our quiet place in the than just folks coming to cut down a tree. I have seen and learned so many things I had country became a busy spot between Thanksgiving and Christmas. not expected to learn. It brings the neighbors in to say hello, which is Jeff’s favorite part. We get to visit with and see old classmates and teachers and many people from around An Important Christmas Tradition the community. We see elders and retired couples, parents with children, extended It is amazing to watch so many people carry on the longtime tradition of cutting IDPLOLHVFRXUWLQJFRXSOHVWKDWVWD\XQWLOGDUNWRSURSRVHJURXSVRIVLQJOHJLUOVÀQGLQJD down a tree for Christmas. When we’ve asked people who come why they cut a tree tree for their apartment while photographing every moment, bachelors with nieces and rather than going to buy one, the answer is the same from everyone: “It wouldn’t be QHSKHZVWKDWKHOSÀQGWKHSHUIHFWWUHH6RPHFKRRVHWKHÀUVWWUHHWKH\VHHZKLOHRWKHUV Christmas without a real Christmas tree, and we want to keep this old Christmas VSHQGDORWRIWLPHÀQGLQJRQHWKDWLVGXUDEOHWKHSHUIHFWKHLJKWDQGZLGWKDQGKXHDQG tradition alive.” ZLWKVXIÀFLHQWIUDJUDQFH6RPHÀQGDWUHHIRUDZLGRZHGSDUHQWRUDQHOGHUO\QHLJKERU It seems many parents bring their own kids to cut a Christmas tree down, reliving the We enjoy seeing so many people make a stop at our farm part of their holiday traditions! same tradition they were raised with. Some parents listen to the kids sing Christmas FDUROVRQWKHZD\WRWKH7UHH)DUPWKHNLGVKDYHZDLWHGVRORQJWRÀQDOO\JHWWRJRFXW A Visit to the Farm Brings Joy the tree down. They watch the joy on the children’s faces as they go from tree to tree Among the cheer that tree season brings, there is sadness too. People come with a fresh trying to decide on the perfect tree. The excitement is contagious. It radiates from the loss, an illness or other earthly trials. Our family, too, has experienced heavy sadness in parents’ faces as well as from the children. the unexpected loss of my father, and now again when my brother Nels passed away. He Everyone takes turns cutting the tree down, and we hear whoops of delight as the tree has joined Dad at the eternal Christmas in heaven. A burden like this can feel especially falls. Then the family fastens the tree to the roof of the car, hoping it won’t fall off when heavy during a season of cheer. It is good for us to remember during this season of joy rounding a curve on the way home. Many share their favorite memories of how the scent to help and comfort those who are suffering. Most importantly, we can remind each RIIUHVKHYHUJUHHQÀOOVWKHKRXVHKRZPDJLFDOLWORRNVRQFHWKHWUHHLVGHFRUDWHGDQG other of the reason for our stay on earth: to make it to our heavenly home one day. even funny stories of the time the tree did fall off the car on the way home. These are all As people from the community come to cut a tree, they remind us that they are part of the Christmas season for many. remembering us. They share stories of my dad and brother. It is nice to be remembered by our neighbors. Our Small Family Venture Has Grown in Our Hearts Nonetheless, for the happy and for the mourning, a visit to the tree farm brings The Red Roof Tree Farm is modest. We are not open on Sunday, and we do not have hot families togethers and brings out the joy of the season. A decorated Christmas tree and chocolate, cookies, sleigh rides and Santa, or any other extra activities. We like to think its fresh spruce scent gives the families, the widows, the lonely, the ill, people from all WKDWÀQGLQJDQGFXWWLQJGRZQD&KULVWPDVWUHHLVVXIÀFLHQWLQDQGRILWVHOIMXVWOLNHLQ walks of life a spark of joy during the Christmas season. The joy of gazing at a tree all days long ago. One couple, who came from over an hour away, walked the tree farm for lit up is perhaps the same joy Martin Luther experienced hundreds of years ago. He many hours on a gorgeous, Minnesota-bright, snow-covered day, and I wondered if I ZDVEHOLHYHGWREHWKHÀUVWRQHWREULQJWKHWUHHLQWKHKRXVHDQGSXWFDQGOHVRQWKH should go check on them to see if they were okay. I found them strolling towards their Christmas tree on Christmas Eve to bring the radiance of the starry Christmas Eve sky vehicle with big, happy, smiles. They said they found their tree right away but wanted to inside for the family to admire. )

THE VOICE OF ZION DECEMBER 2020 | PAGE 11 HOME AND FAMILY Freely Ye Have Received, Freely Give Erik and Kyra Wuollet

THE CHRISTMAS SEASON is a time of advent when we await the birth of Jesus Christ, the greatest gift, who redeemed us of all sin. We remember and celebrate this time of year by attending services, spending time with family, and giving and receiving gifts. Apostle Paul’s words in Acts 20:35 tell us, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” Jesus also instructs, “Freely ye PHOTO: MATTHEW KERANEN have received, freely give” (Matt. 10:8). Lu Grangroth (left) and Liisa Keranen perform at the 2019 Saturday Market in We visited with elders Roy and Mary Rockford, Minn.

Skoog and Eva Wuollet from our home PHOTO: LAURA SKOOG congregation of Cokato, Minnesota. They Roy and Mary Skoog UHÁHFWHGRQJLIWVWKH\KDYHUHFHLYHGLQWKHLU Lu’s Lifetime Interest lives. They grew up in the time of the Great Depression. Their parents were not able to Bob Niemela provide substantial gifts. Yet they remem- ber feeling blessed. %RELQWHUYLHZHGKLVJUDQGPRWKHU/X*UDQJURWK Eva Wuollet remembers receiving an orange, peanuts, or an apple for Christmas. When did you become interested in music? “We never expected much. People were 0\ÀUVWLQWHUHVWLQPXVLFZDVLQNLQGHUJDUWHQ0\WHDFKHUOLNHGWHDFKLQJ VDWLVÀHGDQGQHYHUIHOWOLNHWKH\PLVVHGRXWµ operettas, and I was given a simple little instrument called the triangle which she says. Even when the family had little produced a chiming sound. I also enjoyed singing and hearing melodies, sweet themselves, they would notice others in need, songs. Christmas songs were my favorites. and it was nice to be able to help however Because my family had very little income during the Great Depression, we they could. Often help was given in the form had access to free music lessons for children offered by our county. Two of my of a meal. After Eva married Donald and older siblings agreed to learn but dropped out. I continued until my teacher they had a large family of their own, Eva was PHOTO: KATIE KEPLINGER requested I participate in a recital. My parents were hesitant perhaps thinking able to enjoy giving gifts to their kids, Eva Wuollet music may interfere with my faith life. although she felt there was not much to give.  +RZHYHU,OHDUQHGHQRXJKIURPWKRVHOHVVRQVWRÀQGP\ZD\RQWKHSXPSRUJDQ Eva says, “It was always nice to be able to The message then and now is that Jesus’ in our home. I was soon playing songs we sang at Sunday school and services. My bring the kids to church services.” birth is the true reason we celebrate dad enjoyed my ability to play and he also learned a little. He often said he wished I Christmas. Through believing sins forgiven could play the violin. His sister had a grandson who played the violin. he gifts we receive are in Jesus’ name and blood we will be able to make it to heaven one day. Describe the learning process you undertook as you studied music. Tblessings from God.  :KHQZHWKLQNRIDJLIWRIWHQWKHÀUVW After my husband retired, we moved to Brainerd. I bought a violin from a believ- Likewise, the gifts we give image that comes to mind is a package ing friend and our local school music instructor agreed to teach me to play it. From nicely wrapped in festive paper with an this teacher, I learned more about the principles of music. My good friend Linda are also His blessings. object inside. It is important to remember Parks also took lessons and we enjoyed practicing together while our husbands that the gifts Jesus spoke of are not of this chatted in the living room. The songs of Zion are the most beautiful melodies. Roy and Mary Skoog also remember kind. We possess the most precious gift, the I love the pure, clear sound of the violin and recorder, so my next purchase receiving few material gifts at Christmas gift of faith. As believers, we can also was a wooden recorder. With help from books, I managed to produce music in its ZKHQWKH\ZHUHFKLOGUHQ0DU\UHÁHFWVWKDW freely offer this gift to anyone who is simplest form on the recorder. While working at Stony Lake Camp I would often they never had a Christmas tree, and she searching for peace for their undying soul. play outdoors on my recorder. I noticed even the birds stopped their songs to rarely received gifts from her parents but We pray that we would be given strength to listen. I no longer have my violins or recorders. They are now being enjoyed by was overjoyed to receive a package from her speak of the joy that is in us, and thus be younger, eager musicians. aunts and uncles. Although Mary’s parents able to offer this gift to our unbelieving were unable to give presents, Mary said, “I neighbors in our Christmas giving. What is your experience in playing music today? am thankful my parents thought about my The gifts we receive are blessings from All my life I wanted to take real music lessons, to learn more about music and its undying soul.” They brought her to services God. Likewise, the gifts we give are also varieties. So now in old age, while I have time, I have found a teacher who could and preached the gospel in their home. His blessings. ) help me learn more about music. I thought that perhaps I could still learn even WKRXJKQRWDVHDVLO\DVZKHQ\RXQJHU0\WHDFKHU/LLVDPD\ÀQGLWDFKDOOHQJH Discussion questions: to teach a senior citizen. But she has been very encouraging, and I do enjoy 1. “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35). What does this mean to you? practicing the pieces she gives me. I play for my own enjoyment. I do not enjoy playing before audiences because I 2. When have you realized it was a greater blessing to give rather than receive? What were QHYHUIHHOFRQÀGHQW3HUKDSVWKDWFRXOGFKDQJHZKHQ,KDYHOHDUQHGVXIÀFLHQWO\ the circumstances? 3. What does instruction in Acts 20:35 teach us especially about helping the less fortunate? Describe the role of music in the congregation over your lifetime. How might we do this today? Our congregation did not have an organ or piano. Two OXNNDULV (song leaders) led the singing. In our home we had hymnals from various faiths and one Finnish 4. How can we teach children about the blessing of giving, rather than receiving? How can hymnal also. In my lifetime it has been joyful to see the advancement of music parents model this? in our Zion and the music camps where young and old can enjoy good music. 5. When you think back to Christmases past, which is easier to remember: gifts you’ve The beautiful songs and hymns of Zion played and sung by our youth and given or gifts you’ve received? Why is this so? congregation are expressions of joy in the believing heart. )

PAGE 12 | DECEMBER 2020 THE VOICE OF ZION MUSIC NOTES QUESTION OF THE MONTH

In This World of Sin, Christmas Peace hat is your favorite WChristmas song, and why?

Liisa Keranen

IT IS THE SEASON! Music has a very special place in many people’s hearts and homes at > Though there are many lovely Christmas songs, my favorite has Christmastime. As has been previously discussed in this column, music can create conditions become song 55, "I Seek No Gold or Majesty." I've always loved the that allow an otherwise obscure message to pass through thick walls of indifference or even melody when hearing it in Finnish and am thrilled that with our most ignorance. Music can certainly prepare our hearts to receive the Child of Christmas. There are, recent songbook, we now can sing it in English. It is a peaceful and of course, those jolly songs with Santa and reindeer and elves that may energize a person to bake prayerful song. My favorite lines are found in verse 2: “Among the cookies or go on a wintry stroll, but it is the solemn, perhaps melancholic songs that really open children in our home give blessed harmony.” What better thing to the path to my heart. pray for than faith and harmony in our homes at this blessed time of There is a 6LLRQLQODXOX number 15 in the current book, that I have known all my life. The year! – Barb Byman melody of this song, called 3llOOlV\QQLQPDDQ in Finnish, was composed by the late Jaakko > My favorite Christmas song is “Silent Night.” It has become even Linjama, a believing composer. I had never given much thought to the rather grim opening more special to me since my husband passed away. When we sing words of the song until we started translating them. this song as our last hymn on Christmas Eve at church, the singing is That process started with the Guitar Guys, as I call the two wonderful fellows who were full of joy and beauty, and I can imagine that the saints who have willing to record an instrumental album for this unusual Christmas. They wanted to include this been laid to rest in our nearby cemetery can hear our voices of joy for melody, and although the album is instrumental only, we thought the words should be accessible the Christmas event of our Savior, Lord Jesus’ birth. – Nancy Mattila in English so listeners would understand why this melody was included. That is why the lyrics, > There was a time in my life as a teenager where I struggled daily with written by Niilo Rauhala, came to be translated. questions about faith and its place in my life. I felt at times as if I The literal translation of the opening words of the song is, “On this earth of sin peace is longed were drowning in my unanswered questions. I remember attending for.” As we considered what to name the album, John – one of the Guitar Guys – suggested using the Sunday School Christmas program that year and feeling warmed the title of the new song in order to introduce that song to North American listeners. Well, in the by the familiar atmosphere of the story and music. When the congre- SURFHVVRIFUHDWLQJVLQJDEOHYHUVHVLQ(QJOLVKWKHÀUVWOLQHRIWKHVRQJKDGEHFRPH´,QWKLVZRUOG gation sang song 39 together, “Immanuel, We Sing Thy Praise,” I of sin.” This sounded quite hopeless as the name of a Christmas album. It sounds just as mournful TGOGODGTHGGNKPICUKHO[JGCTVYCUQXGTƃQYKPIYKVJVJGLQ[QH in Finnish, but it doesn’t bother me since it’s a song I’ve known all my life. %JTKUVOCU(QTVJGƂTUVVKOGKPCNQPIVKOGO[FQWDVUYGTGIQPG  $VDPXVLFLDQ,DOZD\VJUDEDVRQJE\WKHPXVLFÀUVW,WLVYHU\UDUHWKDWWKHO\ULFVJDLQKROG and I felt peace radiate through me. Now, when I sing that song I of my attention ahead of the music. When words are changed or revised or, in this case, trans- often feel those same feelings, and I am reminded of the peace that lated, they gain a whole new feeling. This is what happened to me with this song. I feel this song Christmas brings to me. For this peace, I thank the Heavenly Father. was made for this year, even though the words were written over 50 years ago, in 1965. The song – Anonymous starts, “In this world of sin we seek peace within.” It seems to me that this year has brought unrest, uncertainty and inner battles to this world, in > I have always enjoyed “We Greet Thee, Christmas,” because it was Zion and in many individuals’ lives. This song seems to address this and it hits a nerve. The often sung during the Christmas Eve candlelight service and evoked song continues, “peace to rid all hearts of hate and malice.” That has certainly been my prayer special feelings of the excitement of Christmas. How wonderful to sit this past year. with fellow believers in the pew and sing together as one voice, As the song continues, it paints a fairly stark comparison between earthly life and God’s “Glory be to God on high” and welcome the season. – Elaine Nikula radiance. The second verse points to life as viewed through a smudged window in unforgiving > My favorite Christmas song is "Comfort, Comfort, Ye My People.” In IDOOOLJKWZKHUHWKHORZVXQUHYHDOVDOOWKHVWUHDNVDQGÀQJHUSULQWVDQGLPSHUIHFWLRQV7KLV 2014 my unbelieving father was very sick with a rare disease and was world would be a hopeless place for us were it not for God’s grace. hospitalized. We were unsure what the future for him was. Our family The third verse, then, brings the comfort we long for. God’s mighty hymn cuts through the clamor gathered for our annual Christmas party. That night there was much and hubbub, telling of the work Christ did by dying on the cross on behalf of us sinful people. discussion and many prayers went out for his health and most Back in our planning meeting, however, we were left with the question of what to title this importantly his undying soul. Later we sang songs, including number song. Should we stay in this world of sin, or should we skip some lines and look to the Child in 6. It touched close to my heart, it felt like the prayer that was in me the manger, who brings us much-awaited Christmas peace? We chose the latter. was given a voice. Christmas Peace is the name of the song that you can hear on the new LLC album, also called Comfort those who sit in darkness, mourning neath their sorrows’ &KULVWPDV3HDFH

2·HUWKLVZRUOGRIVLQVRXQGVDPLJKW\K\PQIURPWKHPDQJHUZRUGVRIORYHDUHVZHOOLQJ ZRUGVRIJUDFHHDUQHGRQWKHFURVVDUHWHOOLQJ&KULVWZDVERUQWRVHWXVIUHH hat is your favorite /RUGLPSDUW\RXU&KULVWPDVSHDFH WLLC publication? F: Niilo Rauhala 1965, 2010 E: Matthew Keranen 2020 To answer, send an email message to [email protected]

P. S. I n 0XVLF1RWHV for the November 2019 issue of 9RLFHRI=LRQ I wrote about various ;QWOC[UKIP[QWTOGUUCIGYKVJ[QWTIKXGPPCOG ƂTUVPCOGQTƂTUVCPFNCUV names) or with a pseudonym or pen name. We reserve the right to select which Christmas songs, including “Silent Night.” This song was premiered accompanied by guitar, answers we publish. We may edit spelling and grammar in responses. If necessary, VLQFHDÁRRGKDGGHVWUR\HGWKHRUJDQLQWKDWVPDOO$XVWULDQFKXUFK7RKRQRUWKHVHRULJLQVRXU we may also edit for brevity and clarity. Submit your answers by January 1, 2021. new album Christmas Peace closes with “Silent Night” on two guitars, with no organ. Look for the answers to this question in the February Voice of Zion!

THE VOICE OF ZION DECEMBER 2020 | PAGE 13 BILINGUAL DEVOTION

The Best Christmas Gift Paul Honkala God Created All People comfort and care for one another. Most powerless. It is important to remember and Hope of Heaven importantly, it gives us strength to when we speak our own psalm to an ,QWKHEHJLQQLQJZDVWKH:RUGDQGWKH Our text relates; “In the beginning was the believe our own sins forgiven in Jesus’ XQEHOLHYLQJSHUVRQ*RGSURPLVHVWRÀOO :RUGZDVZLWK*RGDQGWKH:RUGZDV Word and the Word was with God and the name and blood. God has done all of this our mouth with words. This is not easy to *RG7KHVDPHZDVLQWKHEHJLQQLQJ Word was God. All things were made by by His Word. believe. We are always left to that place ZLWK*RG$OOWKLQJVZHUHPDGHE\KLP him; and without him was not any thing of trusting God. We also know and and without him was not any thing made made.” We can see in nature the powerful John the Baptist Bore Witness understand that we cannot give faith to WKDWZDVPDGH,QKLPZDVOLIHDQGWKH hand of God, who created all things. The God so loved fallen people that he sent anyone. God prepares and opens the OLIHZDVWKHOLJKWRIPHQ$QGWKH:RUG ELUWKRIDFKLOGDQGLWVÀUVWFU\RIOLIH His only Son into the world that through heart of a person in unbelief to receive ZDVPDGHÁHVKDQGGZHOWDPRQJXV make us marvel at the great work of God. Him sinners might be saved. As our text His word. That is the reason that John the DQGZHEHKHOGKLVJORU\WKHJORU\DVRI However, dear travel friend, we can look relates, the forerunner of Jesus was John Baptist preached of Jesus the coming WKHRQO\EHJRWWHQRIWKH)DWKHU IXOORI even closer at the work of God: that hope the Baptist. John came to bear witness that Savior. He was given to understand this JUDFHDQGWUXWK of heaven placed in your heart, that all men through Christ might believe. great work of God’s son. -RKQ² Christmas peace, the knowledge that you John was given to understand the work of 5HDGWKHHQWLUH%LEOHSRUWLRQ own living faith and that your sins are Jesus. It was John’s heartfelt desire that Like John, We Also Bear Witness LQ-RKQ² forgiven in Jesus’ name and blood. This is humankind would learn of God's word This same knowledge that John the the great work of God. He has given you and believe the works that Jesus was to Baptist understood you also know and ohn, the Apostle of Love, the gift of living faith – the greatest accomplish. This is also the heart of a understand. When sins are forgiven in wrote these words to treasure one could own. believer today. When one considers the Jesus’ name and blood, you also own remind us of the great What is this gift of living faith? The greatest gift of all – living faith – the Christmas peace. Through eyes of faith love of the heavenly Holy Spirit dwells in the heart of a believer wishes it for everyone. your hope is anchored to heaven’s shore. J Father toward sin-fallen believing person. It not only places hope We need to pray for a heart like John The believing heart has this unceasing humans. We are now in the Advent season in the heart, it teaches one to stay away the Baptist that we could boldly speak of prayer to God: NHHSPHLQOLYLQJIDLWK preparing for the festivities of Christmas, from things that bring danger to the life God’s grace for the penitent sinner. This At this Christmas season we pause to when families gather, sing hymns, share of faith. It encourages us to attend matter of confessing our faith is not an consider the great gift of faith; we, along meals and exchange gifts. The events of the services, to hear God’s Word. It teaches easy one. The believer carries this with John the Baptist, want all people to Christmas season can too easily become XVWRVHHNWKHVDIHFHQWHURIWKHÁRFNRI earthly portion that often battles against own it. We pray, that God gives each of us common practice. It’s important to pause to God’s children. It teaches us to keep faith the holy portion. We are slow to speak strength to speak of the greatest Christmas consider the meaning of Christmas. and a good conscience. It teaches us to our own psalm of faith, and we often feel gift of all, living faith. )

Paras joululahja Paul Honkala Jumala loi ihmiset ja taivastoivon lohduttamaan ja hoitamaan toisiamme. itsemme usein voimattomiksi. On tärkeä Tekstimme sanoo; ”Alussa oli Sana. Sana Tärkeimpänä kaikista, se antaa meille muistaa, että kun kerromme omaa $OXVVDROL6DQD6DQDROL-XPDODQ oli Jumalan luona, ja Sana oli Jumala. Jo voimaa uskoa omat syntimme anteeksi psalmiamme epäuskoiselle henkilölle, OXRQDMD6DQDROL-XPDOD-RDOXVVD alussa Sana oli Jumalan luona. Kaikki Jeesuksen nimessä ja veressä. Jumala on Jumala on luvannut täyttää suumme 6DQDROL-XPDODQOXRQD.DLNNLV\QW\L syntyi Sanan voimalla. Mikään, mikä on tehnyt kaiken tämän Sanallaan. sanoilla. Sitä ei ole helppo uskoa. Voimme 6DQDQYRLPDOOD0LNllQPLNlRQ syntynyt, ei ole syntynyt ilman häntä.” aina luottaa Jumalaan. Tiedämme ja V\QW\Q\WHLROHV\QW\Q\WLOPDQKlQWl Jumala, joka loi kaiken, näyttää vahvan Johannes Kastaja toimi todistajana ymmärrämme myös sen, ettemme voi +lQHVVlROLHOlPlMDHOlPlROL kädenjälkensä luonnossa. Lapsen Jumala on rakastanut langenneita ihmisiä antaa uskoa kenellekään. Jumala LKPLVWHQYDOR6DQDWXOLOLKDNVLMDDVXL syntymä ja ensiparkaisu saavat meidät niin paljon, että Hän lähetti ainoan valmistaa ja avaa uskosta osattoman PHLGlQNHVNHOOlPPH0HVDLPPH ihmettelemään Jumalan suuria tekoja. Poikansa maailmaan, jotta syntiset sydämen ottamaan Hänen sanansa NDWVHOODKlQHQNLUNNDXWWDDQNLUNNDXWWD Voimme kuitenkin, rakas matkaystävä, pelastuisivat Hänen kauttaan. Kuten vastaan. Tämän vuoksi Johannes Kastaja MRQND,VlDLQRDOOH3RMDOOHDQWDD+lQ nähdä Jumalan työn vielä lähempänä: tekstimme kertoo, Johannes Kastaja oli saarnasi Jeesuksesta, tulevasta Pelasta- ROLWl\QQlDUPRDMDWRWXXWWD taivastoivon, joka sinulla on sydämessäsi Jeesuksen edelläkävijä. Johannes tuli jasta. Hänen annettiin ymmärtää Jumalan -RK² sekä joulurauhan ja tietoisuuden siitä, todistamaan, jotta kaikki ihmiset uskoi- Pojan suuret teot. /XHNRNRUDDPDWXQNRKWDNRNRQDLVXXGHV että omistat elävän uskon ja että syntisi sivat, Kristuksen kautta. Johanneksen VDDQ-RK² ovat anteeksi Jeesuksen nimessä ja sallittiin ymmärtää Jeesuksen työ. Johanneksen tavoin mekin veressä. Tämä on Jumalan suurta työtä. Johanneksen hartain toive oli, että olemme todistajia ohannes, rakkauden Hän on antanut sinulle elävän uskon ihmiskunta tulisi tietämään Jumalan Sinä myös tiedät ja ymmärrät sen, minkä apostoli, kirjoitti nämä lahjan – se on suurin aarre, jonka sanan ja uskoisi siihen tehtävään, jonka Johannes Kastaja ymmärsi. Kun synnit sanat muistuttaakseen voimme omistaa. Jeesus täyttäisi. Tämä on uskovaisen mieli ovat anteeksi Jeesuksen nimessä ja meitä taivaallisen Isän Mikä tämä elävän uskon lahja on? tänäkin päivänä. Kun ajatellaan kaikista veressä, omistat myös joulun rauhan. J suuresta rakkaudesta Pyhä Henki asuu uskovaisen ihmisen parhainta lahjaa – elävää uskoa – Uskon silmin toivo ankkuroituu taivaan meitä syntiin langenneita ihmisiä sydämessä. Se ei vain luo toivoa sydä- uskovainen toivoo sitä jokaiselle. rannalle. Uskova sydän rukoilee alituisesti kohtaan. Elämme nyt adventin aikaa meen, vaan se neuvoo pysymään erossa Meidän tulee rukoilla sellaista sydäntä Jumalaa: SLGlPLQXWHOlYlVVlXVNRVVD valmistautuen joulun juhlallisuuksiin, sellaisista asioista, jotka vaarantavat kuin Johannes Kastajalla oli, että voisimme Tänä joulun aikana pysähdymme kun perheet kokoontuvat, laulavat uskonelämämme. Se kannustaa meitä rohkeasti puhua Jumalan armosta katuvalle pohtimaan suurta uskon lahjaa. Johannes yhdessä, syövät yhteisen aterian ja jakavat käymään seuroissa kuulemassa Jumalan syntiselle. Uskon tunnustaminen ei ole Kastajan kanssa mekin haluamme toisilleen lahjoja. Joulun ajan tapahtumat sanaa. Se opettaa meitä hakeutumaan helppoa. Uskovaiset kantavat mukanaan kaikkien ihmisten omistavan sen. Rukoi- voivat liian helposti tulla maallisiksi turvaan Jumalan lasten joukon keskelle. maallista osaa, joka usein taistelee pyhää lemme, että Jumala antaa meille jokaiselle rutiineiksi. On tärkeää pysähtyä ja pohtia Se opettaa meitä pitämään uskon ja osaa vastaan. Olemme hitaita kertomaan voimia puhua suurimmasta joululahjasta, joulun merkitystä. hyvän omantunnon. Se opettaa meitä omaa uskon psalmiamme, ja tunnemme elävästä uskosta. )

PAGE 14 | DECEMBER 2020 THE VOICE OF ZION ALONG LIFE’S WAY I Found Joy Cara Amewotowu

“WHAT ARE YOU CANADIANS DOINGKHUHDW3DUN5DSLGV:DOPDUWRQ&KULVWPDV (YH"'RQ·W\RXKDYHDQ\WKLQJEHWWHUWRGR"µ That question came from a man who was behind us in the line at Walmart in Park Rapids, Minnesota. He struck up a conversation after noticing our three very full grocery carts. A couple of my sisters and I had come straight from a Saskatchewan road trip, dropped off most of our stuff at the cabin our family had rented for the week, and raced to Walmart, hoping to squeeze in before the store closed at 5:00 p.m. on Christmas Eve. We were spending the week at a rambling, rustic cabin at the end of a resort road, water on both sides of the road, surrounded by towering pines loaded with snow. There were twelve adults and six children. With my brother’s wedding at the end of the week, we didn’t know if we would have time to run back and forth for groceries. So we piled the cart with the goods from quickly scratched lists we’d made on the drive to Walmart. Despite being tired from our winter road trip, we were giddy with the excitement of Christmas Eve and my brother’s upcoming wedding.  7KHVKRSSHU·VTXHVWLRQFDXVHGPHWRUHÁHFWRQP\SDVWPRQWK$VDYLFHSULQFLSDODW an elementary school, it had been a full fall and advent season. At the school, we’d had a SDUWLFXODUO\GLIÀFXOWVLWXDWLRQWKDWZHZHUHGHDOLQJZLWKWKDWIDOOZKLFKLQWHQVLÀHGXQWLO LWZDVÀQDOO\UHVROYHGDIHZGD\VEHIRUHZHOHIWRQ&KULVWPDVEUHDN,KDGVSHQWKRXUVLQ PHHWLQJVZLWKP\SULQFLSDODQGRWKHUWHDPPHPEHUVDVZHZRUNHGWRÀQGWKHEHVW solution. We were emotionally exhausted. Also, I had worked with a believing friend to plan and execute the Sunday School Christmas program. She and I had spent many hours brainstorming, gathering materials, preparing for practices and running practices. On top of that, I am a wife and mother to four children ages one to ten. Life in our PHOTO COURTESY OF CARA AMEWOTOWU household is busy at the slowest of times, let alone during December. This year we’d Cara and Kossi Amewotowu with their children Alika, Kekeli, Zuri and Vivia. decided to celebrate Christmas at home on December 20 since we would be leaving the morning of December 23 to Menahga, Minnesota. They worked hard, and yet we had many moments of laughter and happiness. Their pure There in the Walmart line I wondered where I had found time to even breathe in the and joyful singing warmed my heart and reminded me of the perfection that baby Jesus midst of everything. And then a few other thoughts came to mind. is for us. There is a saying, “Music washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life.” I realized how the challenges we’d faced as a school administration team had forced I truly felt this. XVRXWRIRXUFRPIRUW]RQHDQGJLYHQXVQHZVNLOOVLQFRQÁLFWUHVROXWLRQ,WKDGDOVR My heart smiled as I remembered the excitement of our girls on our early “Christmas brought a deeper level of trust between the team. I was touched when my principal gave Eve” at home when we’d prepared a simple snack of prune tarts, crackers and cheese, me a beautiful wooden wall-hanging as a Christmas gift, with the following simple Christmas oranges and some frozen appetizers I’d heated up in the oven. We set the words painted on it: Find Joy. table with candles and Marimekko napkins. Though I hadn’t had much time for baking I smiled as I thought about the fun I’d had with some of my colleagues, students and or preparing, it felt special. We sang Christmas songs in our small home Zion, read the their families on Family Fun Night at school. I was in the gym playing the piano for the Christmas gospel, and ended with “Silent Night” before opening presents. caroling station where, after decorating sugar cookies, families could drop in and sing Tonight we stepped out of Walmart into the wonderfully mild evening, where snow along. We’d laughed at the antics of a couple of particularly energetic teachers. We’d gently fell over the parking lot, and as we packed groceries into every corner of my joined in song with parents and students and experienced how music can unify and sister’s vehicle, I felt peace. Yes, the time leading up to this Christmas Eve had been full bring a smile to any face. and at times I had even been ready to give up my leadership roles. And then I thought of the Sunday School Christmas program. I remembered the Yet, as my sister started the car and 7XLNNLNDDRLMRXOXQWlKW|VHW – one of my favorite H[FLWHPHQW,IHOWZKHQWKHZKROH6XQGD\VFKRROFDPHWRJHWKHUIRUWKHÀUVWSUDFWLFH$QG Finnish Christmas songs – played from the stereo, my heart found the answer to the the amazement I felt when everything managed to fall into place for the program! I was question of the curious shopper: we Canadians at Walmart in Park Rapids on Christmas blessed to be a part of this program planning. Even though my life was busy, I felt Eve certainly have better things to do. The celebration of our Savior’s birth awaits us, pleasure every time I had the opportunity to work with the beautiful group of children. and we are eager to join in. )

PHOTO: SHEENA SIMONSON PHOTO: JENNIFER SIMONSON Cara Amewotowu prepares Christmas tarts for her family's Christmas celebration at home in Alika (left) and Vivia Amewotowu (right) and their cousin Bianca Assiobo enjoyed spending Outlook, Saskatchewan. Christmas together in northern Minnesota.

THE VOICE OF ZION DECEMBER 2020 | PAGE 15 UPCOMING LLC MISSION TRIPS SERVICE SCHEDULES CANADA Laestadian Lutheran Church of Flagstaff Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the LLC has ALBERTA Meeting place: Sturgeon Cromer Elementary School suspended foreign mission trips. We continue to 5KNXGT5CFFNG4QCF(NCIUVCHH#<^NNEƃCIUVCHHQTI monitor the situation and will reinstate these activities Lethbridge Laestadian Lutheran Church Sunday school 9:15 am | Sunday service 10:30 am as it becomes possible. We remember in prayer our Chairman: Allen Pirness 403-894-0515 | [email protected] For visiting minister and communion service details, see online calendar. Secretary: Kris Ylioja 403-308-6170 | [email protected] Chairman: 612-741-7615 | Secretary: 602-885-3105 DTQVJGTUCPFUKUVGTUKPHQTGKIPOKUUKQPƂGNFU Sept–May Sunday school ...... 10:00 am Sunday service ...... 11:00 am Phoenix Laestadian Lutheran Church 1st Sunday communion 32424 N 43rd St, Cave Creek, AZ 85331 3rd Sunday evening service ...... 7:00 pm pllchurch.org | [email protected] Song services 1st Friday of the month Chairman: 602-396-6929 | Secretary: 480-213-2201 REMEMBER: Bible class Friday ...... 7:30 pm Service Schedule June–Aug Sunday school (Sept–May) ...... 9:15 am Service Men and Women in Prayer and with Mail Sunday service ...... 11:00 am Sunday service ...... 10:30 am & 7:00 pm (1st Sunday Communion, no evening service) Service personnel, or their families may submit the Wednesday: Bible study ...... 7:00 pm names and addresses of active duty members of the ONTARIO 1st Wednesday: Song services ...... 7:00 pm armed services to appear in this space. Consider a gift Toronto Laestadian Sunday service summer schedule ...... 10:00 am subscription to the Voice of Zion or recorded sermons Lutheran Congregation for your loved one who is in the service. 5579 Hwy 27, Cookstown, ON Laestadian Lutheran Church of Prescott Valley Note: Mail to all service personnel uses Mailing address: PO Box 1035 3120 Mountain View | PO Box 25517 | Prescott Valley, AZ 86312 regular U.S. postage rates. Cookstown, ON, Canada L0L 1L0 Sunday school (Sept–May) ...... 9:15 am Sunday school (Labour Day–Mother’s Day) ...... 12:00 pm Sunday service (Communion–1st Sunday) ...... 10:30 am Sunday service (Labour Day–end of June) ...... 1:00 pm Wednesday–Bible class (except July) ...... 7:00 pm Mark & Angela Hoikka Eric & Rosella Randall Sunday service (July–Labour Day) ...... 6:00 pm 6819 Dorothy Louise Dr 2914 Gamewell Cir., Church: 928-775-5030 Communion service 1st Sunday of month Chairman: 928-445-0407 | Secretary: 928-533-3347 San Antonio, TX 78229-4905 Eastover, NC 28312 Day Circle, Children’s Bible class, and song services Mark 623-332-7113 CPL Randall, John Friday (Labour Day–Mother’s Day) ...... 7:00 pm [email protected] 1/4 DET 1, USS MAKIN ISLAND COLORADO Angela 623-337-0258 Chairman: 416-688-5254 | Secretary: 905-936-6359 Wpns Co, 81's plt, Alpha sec. [email protected] Church: 705-458-9568 (during services) Laestadian Lutheran Church of the Unit 89041 Roaring Fork Valley LCPL Huhta, Blake FPO AP 96610-4100 SASKATCHEWAN PO Box 91561 1859 N 1st St | PO Box 681 | Silt, CO 81652 MIDN 3/c Nels Waaraniemi Yuma, AZ 85369-1561 Dunblane Laestadian Lutheran Church Chairman: 970-618-7752 | www.llcrfv.org PO Box 15141 218-539-9941 Sunday school (Sept–May) ...... 9:15 am Annapolis, MD 21412 Box 160, Macrorie, SK Canada S0L 2E0 Sunday services (1st Sunday Communion) ...... 10:30 am Loren & Ashley Krey [email protected] Phone & fax: 306-243-4837 2nd & 4th Sunday evening services ...... 6:30 pm PO Box 4724 763-607-6973 Chairman: 306-243-4407 Wednesday: Bible class, Youth Bible class, Day Circle, Fort Eustis, VA 23604 Secretary: 306-243-4836 Home and Family, or song services ...... 7:00 pm

Sunday school (Sept–May) ...... 9:45 am Sunday services ...... 11:00 am FLORIDA 1st Sunday ...... 7:00 pm Laestadian Lutheran Church of Florida Hand-Crocheted Baptism Gowns Communion service 1st Sunday #HƂNKCVGF..%%QPITGICVKQP Bible class (2nd, 3rd & 4th Friday) ...... 7:30 pm Contact: Secretary – Russell Roiko 612-723-1422 or Song services (1st Friday) ...... 7:30 pm Treasurer – Vesa Paukkeri 954-294-6567 Includes gown, cap, booties, slip and blanket. Youth Bible class (4th Sunday alt w/Outlook)...... 7:00 pm Service Schedule (English & Finnish) $150.00 (+ shipping), proceeds to Brainerd LLC. No Bible class or song services June, July and Aug. Apr–Nov Dec–Mar Contact 509-570-3467 Outlook Laestadian Lutheran Church At homes Sunday–2:00 pm Contact above St. Andrews Lutheran Church 400 McKenzie St N 928 South E St, Lake Worth Outlook, SK Canada S0L 2N0 Phone: 306-867-8950 Chairman: 306-867-7530 ILLINOIS Secretary: 306-867-9632 [email protected] Laestadian Lutheran Church of Illinois www.outlookllchurch.org Chairman: 847-543-4121 | Secretary: 847-543-4121 Sept–May June–Aug Sunday school ...... 10:00 am Sunday services ...... 10:00 am Welcome to our services! Sunday services ...... 10:45 am Sunday school (Sept–May) ...... 9:45 am Sunday service (June–Aug) ...... 10:00 am Communion service 1st Sunday of month Sunday service (Sept–May) ...... 11:00 am Bible class last Sunday of month Communion 1st Sunday Sunday evening service (1st & 3rd Sunday) ...... 6:30 pm MICHIGAN Bible class (Friday) ...... 7:00 pm Song services (1st Friday) ...... 7:00 pm 290 Fairground, Youth Bible class (4th Sunday) ...... 6:30 pm Plymouth, MI 48170 734-451-0500 No Bible class or song services June, July and Aug. www.dllchurch.org

Saskatoon Laestadian Chairman: Briar Siljander 248-978-2982 | [email protected] LUTHERAN CHURCH Secretary: Julie Honkala 248-224-1399 | [email protected] Sunday services 11:00 am (Communion on 1st Sunday) Chairman: 306-343-1116 | saskatoonllc.org SEPT–MAY: Sunday school 9:45 am Sunday school (Sept–Apr) ...... 12:30 pm Bible class 7:00 pm on 1st & 3rd Wednesday Sunday service (Communion 1st Sunday) (Sept–Apr) ...... 1:30 pm Song services 7:00 pm on 1st Wednesday Sunday service (Communion 1st Sunday) (May–Aug) ...... 12:30 pm alternating with Bible class. Bible class / Song services – Friday (Sept–Apr) ...... 7:00 pm Youth Bible class 7:00 pm on 3rd Wednesday Day Circle 10:30 am on 1st Saturday UNITED STATES ALASKA Ishpeming Laestadian Lutheran Church 567 Washington St, Ishpeming, MI 49849 | 906-485-1791 Alaska Laestadian Lutheran Church Sunday (Sept–May) Sunday (June–Aug) 1341 E Sue Ln, Wasilla, AK 99654 | Chairman: 907-315-1197 Sunday school ...... 9:45 am Worship service ...... 11:00 am Worship service ...... 11:00 am 7:00 pm Sunday school (during school year) ...... 10:00 am 6:30 pm Sunday service ...... 11:00 am Bible class – Wednesday ...... 7:30 pm Communion service – First Sunday | No evening service – Last Sunday Song services – 1st Wednesday ...... 7:30 pm Wednesday (Sept–Apr) Bible class ...... 7:00 pm ARIZONA Song service or discussion – First Wednesday Laestadian Lutheran Church of Glendale Pelkie Laestadian Lutheran Congregation Chairman: 623-556-6911 | Secretary: 623-810-2911 Church address: 15439 Pelkie Rd, Pelkie, MI 49958 | 906-353-7531 Service Schedule Mailing address: 22399 Broemer Rd, Chassel, MI 49916 Wednesday Bible class ...... 7:00 pm Chairman: Albert Hongisto 906-482-0878 Sunday school ...... 9:00 am Secretary: Roy Pikkarainen 906-482-2166 Sunday service ...... 10:00 am Pastor: James Frantti 906-483-0712 5WPFC[UGTXKEG GZEGRVVJGƂTUV5WPFC[QHVJGOQPVJ ...... 4:00 pm Sunday school (Sept–May) ...... 9:45 am The inclusion of third-party advertisements We are currently meeting at Desert Sage Elementary School, Sundays: Worship service ...... 11:00 am 4035 W Alameda Rd, Glendale, Arizona 85310. 1st Sunday: Communion service ...... 11:00 am does not constitute an endorsement 2nd Wednesday: Bible study ...... 6:30 pm or recommendation by LLC. Please check the website for any location changes. Website: http://www.llcofglendale.org | Email: [email protected] PAGE 16 | DECEMBER 2020 THE VOICE OF ZION SERVICE SCHEDULES MINNESOTA Rockford Laestadian Lutheran Church Brainerd Laestadian Church address: 741 Ibarra Ave NE, Buffalo, MN Church: 763-497-8211 Welcome to Lutheran Church Sunday morning services ...... 10:30 am & Manor Communion services on 1st Sunday ...... 10:30 am Florida Winter Services! 1501 S 8th St, Brainerd, MN Sunday school (Sept–May) ...... 9:15 am 218-829-5745 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Sunday evening services with a February 19–21, 2021 Chairman: 218-828-0536 | Secretary: 218-829-8055 Finnish sermon on the 1st Sunday ...... 6:30 pm 4th Sunday youth discussion ...... 6:30 pm Welcome to our services! Bible class on Wednesdays (except 1st Wednesday) ...... 7:00 pm “Preserve me, O God: Song services on 1st Wednesday* ...... 7:00 pm Sunday service ...... 10:00 am *Home services in Oct, Dec, Feb, Apr for in thee do I put my trust” (Ps. 16:1) 1st Sunday: Communion service Wednesday evenings: Online devotion services ...... 7:00 pm Pastor: Jouko Haapsaari | 763-291-5818 | [email protected] Sunday school (held in homes during school year) Chairman: Jeremy Glynn 763-710-0266 St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church Secretary: Jeff Hanson 763-568-2645 928 S E St., Lake Worth, Fla.

Cokato Laestadian MONTANA For additional information: Lutheran Church Flathead Valley Laestadian Lutheran Church Russell Roiko 612-723-1422 16144–20th St SW, Cokato, MN 55321 Meeting Place: East Side Grange - 27 Creston Rd, Kalispell, MT 59901 320-286-2413 Chairman: 406-309-4388 | Secretary: 406-314-2871 Sunday school (during school year) ...... 9:15 am Sunday service ...... 10:30 am 1st Sunday: Communion service ...... 10:30 am Sunday school (Sept–May) ...... 9:15 am 2nd Sunday: Services ...... 10:30 am 1st and 3rd Wednesday: Services ...... 7:00 pm Discussion ...... 7:00 pm 2nd and 4th Wednesday: Bible class ...... 7:00 pm 3rd & 4th Sundays:Services ...... 10:30 am 5th Wednesday: Song services ...... 7:00 pm Services ...... 7:00 pm 3rd Friday: Home services in Oct, Dec, Feb, Apr ...... 7:00 pm 1st Wednesday: Song services ...... 7:00 pm 2nd, 3rd & 4th Wednesday: Bible class ...... 7:00 pm For visiting minister and communion service details, see online calendar at fvllchurch.org Editors: Matthew Keranen, [email protected] Chairman: 612-490-4103 | Secretary: 763-237-4663 Sandra Pylvainen, [email protected] NORTH DAKOTA Layout: Annette Johnson, [email protected] Laestadian Lutheran Church of Elk River Laestadian Lutheran Church of Williston LOCAL PUBLICATIONS DIRECTORS Meeting place: Zahl Community Center, Wendy Agbowada, Rockford, MN [email protected] 8595 201st Ave NW, Nowthen, MN 55330 3rd Street (west end of), Zahl, ND 58856 Heidi Aho, East Coast ...... [email protected] Mailing Address: 551 Marcia Dr, Big Lake, MN 55309 Michelle Bowen, North Sound, WA . [email protected] Chairman: Adrian Pirness 763-360-0820 Sunday school (Sept–May) ...... 9:45 am Deanna Byman, Longview, WA ...... [email protected] Secretary: Becky Randall 763-274-1454 Sunday service ...... 11:00 am Vanessa Byman, Williston, ND ...... [email protected] Welcome to our services! Visiting Minister & Communion service: 1st Sunday of every month Connie Erickson, Spokane, WA ...... [email protected] Peggy Glynn, Menahga, MN ...... [email protected] Sunday school (Sept–May) ...... 9:15 am Chairman: 602-908-9982 | Secretary: 218-255-1872 Gina Haapala, Elk River, MN ...... [email protected] Sunday morning service ...... 10:30 am Christina Jacobson, Ishpeming, MI . . . [email protected] Sunday evening service* ...... 6:30 pm WASHINGTON Keilah Johnson, Prescott, AZ ...... [email protected] Wednesday activity* ...... 7:00 pm Taryn Johnson, Flathead Valley, MT ...... [email protected] *No evening service on the 5th Sunday; Longview Laestadian Lutheran Congregation Shelby Jurmu, Monticello, MN ...... [email protected] **The 1st Wednesday of the month is either PO Box 2795 | Longview, WA 98632-9635 | 360-425-7410 Keith Kariniemi, Cokato, MN ...... [email protected] home services or song services. School Year Andrea Lahti, Roaring Fork Valley, CO ...... [email protected] Sunday school ...... 9:15 am Brittany Laulainen, Alaska ...... [email protected] 1st Sunday: Communion service ...... 10:30 am & 1:30 pm Brooke Loukusa, Seattle, WA ...... [email protected] Laestadian Lutheran Church Youth discussion ...... 6:00 pm Eija Mikkola, Toronto, ON ...... [email protected] 2nd, 3rd & 4th Sundays: Services ...... 10:30 am & 6:00 pm Kendra Parks, Saskatoon, SK ...... [email protected] of Menahga 5th Sunday: Services ...... 6:00 pm Russ Roiko, Florida ...... [email protected] 25 Juniper Ave NW, Menahga, MN 56464 Wednesday: Bible Class ...... 7:00 pm Martha Rousu, Phoenix, AZ...... [email protected] Tiina Savolainen, Lethbridge, AB ...... [email protected] 218-564-4064 | www.llcmenahga.org Summer Chairman: 218-538-6583 | Pastor: 218-564-4702 Lynn Siljander, Detroit, MI ...... [email protected] 1st Sunday: Communion service ...... 10:30 am & 1:30 pm Karin Simonson, Dunblane, SK ...... [email protected] Youth discussion ...... 7:00 pm Sunday school (Sept–May) ...... 9:15 am Leah Simonson, Outlook, SK ...... [email protected] 2nd, 3rd & 4th Sundays: Services ...... 10:30 am & 7:00 pm Rachael Smith, Glendale, AZ ...... [email protected] Sunday services ...... 10:30 am 5th Sunday: Services ...... 7:00 pm 1st Sunday communion (10:30 am & 6:00 pm) Wednesday: Services ...... 7:00 pm Wednesday Bible class, song services, or home services ...... 7:00 pm SUBSCRIPTION RATES (New rates effective January 1, 2020) Website: llc-longview.org (Sunday 10:30 am service webcast) Voice of Zion & Christmas in Zion: North America Print Edition, $54/year Laestadian Lutheran Church International Print Edition, $80/year Minneapolis Laestadian Shepherd’s Voice: North America Print Edition, $31/year Lutheran Church of the North Sound International Print Edition, $50/year 13030 47th Ave N, Plymouth, MN 55442 Service Location: Highland Elementary The current issue of the Voice of Zion and Shepherd’s Voice may 763-553-1601 | www.mllchurch.org 3220 113th Ave NE, Lake Stevens, WA 98258 be purchased as a PDF download under eBooks for $5.00/each. [email protected] Chairman: Paul Jacobson 425-280-4240 To order and renew subscriptions, go to the “Subscriptions” tab website: llcns.org on the LLC’s online store, www.llchurch.org. Welcome to our services! Address Changes: Go to www.llchurch.org. Under Publications Sunday school (Sept–May) ...... 9:15 am tab complete “Change of Address” form. Also update your Sunday services ...... 10:30 am Sunday school (Sept–May) ...... 9:15 am address in your online store account to ensure continued delivery. Sunday evening services ...... 6:30 pm Sunday morning service ...... 10:30 am Note to U.S. residents: Subscriptions are sent bulk mail and are not 1st Sunday communion (10:30 am & 6:30 pm) Wednesday Bible class (last Wednesday song services) ...... 7:00 pm forwarded. Submit change of address information as soon as possible. Wednesday evening ...... 7:00 pm (school year) For subscription assistance, contact Kathy Laho at [email protected] Bible class, song services, or home services (Sept–May) 2nd Sunday/month service or discussion ...... 6:00 pm or 763-479-2422. Services (June–Aug) All Sunday morning sermons and special services are webcast Seattle Laestadian ADVERTISING RATES live from our website: www.mllchurch.org Small Ad (3" x 2" or less): $15.00/month Lutheran Church Large Ad (3" x 2" or more): $25.00/month 22420 - 102nd Ave SE Note: minimum 15 euro charge for advertising invoices sent to Europe. Woodinville, WA 98072 Laestadian Lutheran Church www.seallc.org Announcements: of Monticello Birth, engagement, wedding and card of thanks: $17.00 Mailing address: PO Box 981, Monroe, WA 98272-4907 1860 County Rd 39 NE, Monticello, MN 55362 Death: $35.00 Chairman: 763-286-3097 Sunday school (during school year) ...... 9:15 am Submit information on the forms at www.llchurch.org > About > Secretary: 612-298-5095 1st Sunday: Communion service ...... 10:30 am & 1:30 pm LLC Organization > Publications > Voice of Zion Announcements. www.llcmonticello.org 2nd Sunday: Services ...... 10:30 am & 7:00 pm Contact Annette Johnson at [email protected] with inquiries. 3rd Sunday: Services ...... 10:30 am Submit death announcements and inquiries to Kathy Laho at 4th Sunday: Services ...... 10:30 am [email protected] Sunday School (Sept–May)...... 9:15 am Youth discussion ...... 7:00 pm Services (1st Sunday Communion) ...... 10:30 am 5th Sunday: Services ...... 10:30 am & 7:00 pm Ads must be submitted by the 1st of the month preceding the 2nd and 4th Sunday: Services ...... 6:30 pm Wednesday: Bible class ...... 7:00 pm month of publication. Wednesday–Bible Class (except 1st Wednesday) ...... 7:00 pm Church: 360-668-7116 | Chairman: 360-668-6382 Song services on 1st Wednesday* ...... 7:00 pm LAESTADIAN LUTHERAN CHURCH (LLC) *Home & Family Discussion Evening–Oct, Dec, Feb, and April 279 N Medina St, Suite 150, Loretto, MN 55357 Laestadian Lutheran Church of Spokane Phone: 763-479-2422 | Fax: 763-479-2133 | [email protected] Address: 35213 N Dalton Rd | Church: 509-276-7635 1HƂEGJQWTUs/s( Wolf Lake Laestadian Lutheran Church Mailing: PO Box 1896, Deer Park, WA 99006 | www.llc-spokane.org Wolf Lake, MN | 218-538-6708 | www.wlllchurch.org Chairman: 509-280-9696 | Secretary: 509-276-7509 Chairman: Visit the LLC website at: www.llchurch.org Jim Frantti Site includes: Sunday school (Sept–May): ...... 9:15 am home: 906-483-0712 Sunday school ...... 9:45 am - Live sermons 1st Sunday: Communion service ...... 10:30 am [email protected] Sunday worship ...... 11:00 am Service ...... 1:00 pm - News and notes Communion 1st Sunday each month ...... 11:00 am 2nd Sunday: Service ...... 10:30 am & 6:30 pm Executive Director: - Publications information Friday – Bible class ...... 7:00 pm 3rd, 4th Sunday: Service ...... 10:30 am Eric Jurmu - Online store Communion 1st Sunday even numbered months all year ...... 6:00 pm 1st Wednesday: Song service ...... 7:00 pm 2nd Sunday G.P.A. Nursing Home service ...... 2:00 pm cell: 763-402-3695 - Articles and presentations 2nd, 4th Wednesday: Bible class ...... 7:00 pm [email protected] - Camp activities enrollment THE VOICE OF ZION DECEMBER 2020 | PAGE 17 NEW ARRIVALS

Born to

Greg & Sarah Wuollet Elk River, MN

A girl! Lucia Joy May 16, 2020

Born to

Tony & Mary Martin Deer Park, WA

A boy! Charles William July 25, 2020

Born to

Ignace & Katie Hounwanou Everett, WA

A boy! PHOTO: BECKY RANDALL PHOTO: BECKY RANDALL Tavio Raino Newborn Luke Randall holds his father Steven's hand. Steven and Sara Randall with children Kaya (left), Noah (standing) and Logan visit Luke in the hospital. October 30, 2020

Born to Christmas in the NICU Kirk & Lauren Laho Cokato, MN

A boy! Baby Luke Jase Tyler Steven Randall Life has a way of moving forward, whether we are ready or not. November 2, 2020 Friends and family were generous in helping us schedule work, A COOL SEPTEMBER BREEZE drifted off the lake, just across the school drop-offs, hospital visits, and individual quality time with road from my jobsite for the day. It started as a normal day at work, each of our young ones. Basic needs had to be met, and most basic UHSODFLQJURWWHQVRIÀWDQGIDFLD7KHRQO\DEQRUPDOLW\IRUWKHGD\ of all were the needs to hold and snuggle with each child. was my plan to meet my wife at the clinic for her week 29 prenatal  +ROLGD\VZHUHHVSHFLDOO\GLIÀFXOWZLWKRQHIDPLO\PHPEHULQWKH appointment. Her pregnancy was not going well to that point; she hospital. Two years prior to Luke being born, our son Logan was had to stop working and was put on bedrest a few weeks prior. also in the NICU over Christmas. Memories of that time came Shortly before lunchtime, I hit the road planning to make it to the ÁRRGLQJEDFNDVZHHQWHUHGWKHKROLGD\VHDVRQ appointment on my lunchbreak. A text message took me by The hospital takes on a festive vibe as Christmas approaches. surprise: 7KH\·UHVHQGLQJPHWRODERUDQGGHOLYHU\DWWKHKRVSLWDO Families that had previously had babies in the NICU brought gifts My heart sank. Instantly my mind left my work and began racing. and cards, remembering us and others that were experiencing as A dark cloud shaded my thoughts, and fear wrapped cold arms WKH\KDGWKHGLIÀFXOW\RIKDYLQJDEDE\LQWKHKRVSLWDODW around me. I pulled my truck off the freeway to read the text Christmastime. message carefully and collect my thoughts. There I silently prayed Over the following few months of Luke in the hospital, we that God would protect my wife and unborn baby, and that whatever developed a special relationship with some of Luke’s caregivers. A the outcome of the days ahead might be, I could accept God’s will. few of them brought gifts for our other children. The enormous love After many medical tests and discussion, the doctors came to the and support we felt throughout our entire stay was almost over- GLIÀFXOWGHFLVLRQWRLQGXFH6DUDDWMXVWRYHUZHHNV,UHPHPEHU whelming. These gifts from our medical team continued to bring the somber walk to the delivery room. A nurse pushed Sara’s bed WKHKRVSLWDOFORVHDVZUDSSLQJSDSHUÁHZDFURVVWKHOLYLQJURRPRQ down the hall with cords, wires, and IV tubes dragging behind. I Christmas morning. After each present, my mind drifted to the followed, my steps heavy. When we neared the room, a nurse, hospital and baby Luke. whom we knew as a believer, met us. The meeting was brief, but Following the Christmas morning service, we went as a family to enough. It reminded us that we were not alone, but in the prayers of the hospital. It was beautiful to all be together. “Away in a Manger” believers and in the care of God. played softly in the background, and for a moment we felt the peace Luke Andrew Randall was born on September 27, 2019. A team of Christmas. of doctors and nurses worked feverishly, helping our little blessing Days turned into weeks, and Luke's health progressed. The road transition into a new world. Within minutes of Luke’s birth, he was an uneven course. Laying Luke back into his bed every day and had a ventilator helping him maintain oxygen levels and a warm, leaving the hospital was one of the most challenging parts of the enclosed bed called an Isolette to help maintain his body tempera- experience. It was as if our hearts were being torn every time we ture. Wires, sensors and oximeters closely monitored his vital had to leave him. We longed for the day our family could be signs. We knew the months ahead would be long and at times together. Celebrating milestones, clinging to small victories, and GLIÀFXOWEXWZHIHOWLQFUHGLEO\WKDQNIXOIRUWKHQHZHVWDGGLWLRQWR supported by those around us, we were able to keep going one day PHOTO: ANNE SERVIN our family. at a time. )

PAGE 18 | DECEMBER 2020 THE VOICE OF ZION Luke Randall is now a healthy one-year-old. Blessings amid Trials

Becky Randall

SARA WAS IN THE HOSPITAL at 29 weeks gestation when it became clear that the little one she was carrying must be delivered for both her health and that of the baby. 'HDU+HDYHQO\)DWKHUOHW6DUDVXUYLYH/HWEDE\VXUYLYH%XWPD\7K\:LOO EHGRQH*UDQWDFFHSWDQFHIRUZKDWHYHUOLHVDKHDGI prayed. It felt like I couldn’t pray hard enough as I thought of our dear son Steven and his wife Sara and what they were experiencing. God granted delivery of a little boy and granted recovery over the days ahead to Sara. A long journey began for “Lukey Luke” as we called him in those early months. Seeing little Luke played tricks on my mind. He was so perfect, yet so tiny. It was The Miracle hard to imagine he was real. We couldn’t snuggle him – nor could his parents or his siblings. My eyes got misty watching his siblings sitting on our couch meet him through of Life PHOTO: STEVE RANDALL video chats. We ached, knowing Steven and Sara wanted to hold him and be with him at the hospital but also wanted to be with their little ones at home. Nobody knew how long Pirkko Haapsaari the hospitalization would be. It was best that none of us knew that Christmas wouldn’t even be the half-way point of his hospital stay. AS A MOTHER, I live closely with the life stages of my children and grandchil- The road to recovery is generally not linear, and this was certainly true in Luke’s case. dren. For each stage, I have much cause for gratitude. I often pray to God for There was a day when I had planned to go visit my parents in Brainerd after work, but Luke strength and help for our children and their families. Watching the life of our took a negative turn. The chances of him surviving were no greater than of him not. Instead youngest daughter has been interesting. God has given her a believing spouse and of heading north after work, I headed south to the hospital. There, I marveled at the team family for which we are grateful. Each of us are given happy, peaceful times and gathered around Luke – a respiratory therapist not leaving his side, the neonatologist, nurse adversities in appropriate amounts. practitioner, and nursing team all devoting their attention to him. I felt helpless. As a mother, when my own adult daughter is giving birth, I always feel emotional. 3OHDVHGHDU)DWKHUJUDQWDFFHSWDQFHRI

PHOTO: STEVE RANDALL PHOTO: STEVE RANDALL PHOTO: JOUKO HAAPSAARI Noah Randall happily greets Luke, his infant brother. Luke's grandparents Wayne and Becky Randall got to hold Luke with his grandmother Pirkko Haapsaari. Luke when he was six weeks old.

THE VOICE OF ZION DECEMBER 2020 | PAGE 19 A PLACE OF WATCHING

Our Advent in Finland

Karl and Janelle Haapala sounds and smells wafted throughout the -RXOXWRUL(Christmas Market). Everything THE SILENT, SNOWY CHURCHYARD was merry, despite the lack of snow. ÀOOVZLWKWKHZDUPJORZRIKXQGUHGVRI Advent was upon us, and we thought FDQGOHVOLJKWLQJWKHÀQDOUHVWLQJSODFHVRI about our family and friends back in the GHFHDVHGORYHGRQHV+XVKHGÀJXUHVEHQG U.S. Northwest and Midwest, where we over a collection of candles that have been had spent previous Christmases. We lit for those who are buried thousands of were excited to share the Christmas miles – or tens of kilometers – away from season with our Finnish family, and we the small northern Finland village. They expectantly waited to show our tempo- PHOTOS: JANELLE HAAPALA KXGGOHLQTXLHWUHÁHFWLRQRIWKRVHVRXOVDV rary adopted home to Grandma Carol On Christmas Eve, the state church cemetery in , Finland, is lit with candles in the chilly darkness gathers about them. and Grandpa Bob and family and friends memory of those buried there and elsewhere. They recall the church service that a who would visit us. moment before recounted how, a couple At school, the children prepared for December school schedules in Tampere SLSDUNDNNXWDORW (gingerbread houses) millenia ago, an angel proclaimed, “For &KULVWPDV/HLILQÀUVWJUDGHKDGD were full with holiday preparations and something we treasure doing at home as unto you is born this day in the city of believing teacher – a change from school events. The students in grades 1–3 well, but these houses were decorated David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.” at home with no fellow believing children. performed songs in both English and with Finnish candy! In late July 2019, our family boarded Their class constructed an Advent Village Finnish in their Christmas program. The Our small apartment in Tampere was an airplane in Seattle, Wash., for a year from 24 empty cartons – decorating them ninth grade student leadership class was in transformed into a festive home with abroad in Tampere, Finland. We had in colorful construction paper and care- charge of decorating and planning the N\QWWLOlW (candles), a small MRXOXNXXVL been preparing for this adventure for the fully cutting out windows and doors. Each holiday party for their whole school. (Christmas tree), MRXOXWRQWXW(Christmas past year and were taking to the air as night, the school elf would place candy in Around Independence Day (December 6), elves) and Advent calendars. Music friends and family in the U.S. made one lucky child’s miniature house. there was a traditional Finnish dinner with ÀOOHGWKHDLUDQGEDNLQJZDUPHGWKH plans for youth camps and the upcoming Our junior high schoolers, Ria and a wider variety of foods than usual. Right corners. We baked traditional Christmas Labor Day holiday. We were excited for Marjetta, performed the festive songs they before students left for the Christmas treats from home, which we brought the opportunity to spend time with were learning in music programs. Isak and holiday, we were served riisipuuro (rice with us to Paavola. family and old friends and make new Leif joined their elementary school classes porridge). As we do in the United States, When we arrived at Uncle Gabe and friends in the coming year. We looked in an Advent Service in the nearby we had a two-week Christmas break from Aunt Arja’s home, we made even more forward to learning to live in a foreign Aleksanterin .LUNNR (Alexander's Church), December 20th to January 7th. Christmas treats. Then, all the cousins place with a foreign language. We knew where we later enjoyed the Christmas Numerous churches held services and began practicing and planning a small we would be refreshed by the same program put on by the .DPDULNXRUR music events that we attended during Christmas program of singing and message of God’s Word and His gospel FKDPEHUFKRLU ZKLFKZDVÀOOHGZLWK Advent. We also had multiple perfor- instrumental music for our parents. with fellow believers in Finland. many familiar Finnish hymns and songs mances with our music lessons. There On December 21, much later in the We settled in Tampere and soon summer of Zion. Soon it was time to pack for our ZDVÀUVWDFHOORUHFLWDOWKHQDFODULQHW season than we do at home, we set out turned to fall. The darkness of the north- Christmas in Paavola! performance at Viinikan .LUNNR a viola with our uncle to cut down a tree in the ern winter descended. However, the recital, and an orchestra concert at the forest, which we festively decorated. At expected snows were few and far between, +DDSDOD&KLOGUHQ5HŴHFWRQ music school. During this time, we also noon on December 24, there was a and the cold, windy and rainy fall Christmas in Finland had many special invitations to visit proclamation of Christmas peace on the extended. The locals apologized for the We waited with anticipation for the day Finnish believers. At one home, the hosts radio. In the afternoon, we enjoyed coming PXVWDMRXOX (dark Christmas with we could board a train to the Byman home brought our parents and grandparents to before going to the no snow). The city put lights everywhere in Paavola, where we could experience Christmas song services at the Aitolahden Paavola state church to hear the glad DQGFDQGOHVÁLFNHUHGLQWKHZLQGRZV$ Christmas with cousins – baking, music, .LUNNR organized by members of the tidings of Jesus’ birth. After the service, tall Christmas tree was lit in the City Christmas tree decorating, meals, ser- Tampereen Rauhanyhdistys (Tampere we lit candles in the church cemetery and Center, with the help of -RXOXSXNNL (Father vices, sauna, games, -RXOXSXNNL skating Association of Peace, local congregation walked back to our cousins’ house to Christmas) himself! Traditional sights, and skiing. Northern Finland had snow! of believers). We stayed back to build enjoy our Christmas together. )

Oskar Haapala admires a traditional Nordic candelabra in Karl and Janelle Haapala (left) with their children and nieces and Maa on niin kaunis is sung at many holiday gatherings, the window. nephews at the state church service in Paavola, Finland. including the Christmas Eve service in Paavola, Finland.

PAGE 20 | DECEMBER 2020 THE VOICE OF ZION round the table Our Church Year begins with Advent. What will this new year bring?

We can trust and pray that God will bless us and keep us again this Church Year. This new year will also bring many familiar holy days, on which we observe events related to God’s salvation plan. God through His Son prepared and opened the way to heaven for us. Through His Holy Spirit, God yet does His work in His kingdom. In this issue of round the table, you can learn more about the Church Year.

In Advent we await the comingg of our Savior. On Christmas, we celebrate Christ’s birth into this world 14,*&))"++&$,ǽ ,4 +6,20-/"!',61,,1%"/01%&0%/&01*00"0,+Ȅ%&0-$",ƛ"/00,*" ideas. To all our readers, we wish a Merry Christmas and a blessed New Year!

We continue to welcome your feedback and ideas for this VoVoiceice of ZZionion ffeature.eature. Send Sandra a message at [email protected] It’s Christmas!

Let’s Share Christmas Joy! %&0%/&01*0Ǿ6,2 +0%/"+0%/"%/&01*0',6&+*+64%/&01*0',6&+*+6460ǽ,160ǽ,1 ))$&ƞ01("*2)) $&ƞ0 1(" * %%*,+"6ǽ,2 +20"6,2/ /"1&3&16+!6,2/1&/"1&3&16+!6,2/1&*"1,0%*" 1, 0%/"',6Ȃ "/"/"0,*"&!"0ǽ,2/" ',6Ȃ  +*/(1%",+"06,2ȉ/"4,/(&+$,+,/%3" alreadyl completed. We hope you and your loved ones experience the joy of giving of your time.

HANDWRITE and send a letter to a LISTƜ3"1%&+$06,2--/" &1" ,21 faraway friend or relative. person you love. Deliver the list in a festive envelope or send it as a text message. DO A CHORE for your parents without being asked. READ in person or record articles from this Voice of Zion or Christmas in Zion for CREATE a Christmas-themed comic strip someone special. and share it with others. SHOVEL a neighbor’s snow. INTERVIEW an elder about Christmases  past. Write the elder’s story to share OFFER to help someone decorate a with others. tree, either indoors or outdoors. INVITE your godfather or godmother GO CAROLING…virtually! Record you or a godchild on an outing. and your family singing a Christmas carol and share it. BUILD a snowman in a place where it can bring joy to passersby. WRITE a Christmas story and read it aloud to loved ones. DONATE your time in your community, e.g. at a foodbank. CLEAN your bookshelf or toybox. Donate unneeded items to a charity BRING your neighbor a Christmas or a family. surprise, such as baked goods and a Like Minds Think Alike copy of the Christmas in Zion. WRITE a Christmas letter and send it We began compiling this list in to someone serving in the military. WRITE a Christmas poem and post it on September, long before we social media or share it with friends. DELIVER a meal to someone who is received the Siionin joulu unable to go out of their house. magazine here at the LLC BAKE your favorite Christmas cookies ,ƛ& "ǽ *$&+",2/02/-/&0" and bring a few to your teacher, a class- REMEMBER your delivery person or when we opened that maga- mate, or to a coworker. mailperson this busy holiday season. zine and found a very similar list there too! It is special for CALL a friend you haven’t talked BE A SECRET SANTA.) "0*))$&ƞ0 to this year. or cards or notes around the house for us to imagine that our believ- ing brothers and sisters in -",-)"1,Ɯ+!ǽ VOLUNTEER your time at home or in Scandinavia are sharing +,1%"/+"/ 6#*&)6ǽƛ"/ %&)! /" INVITE a friend or neighbor to Christmas joy in some of the help or help with holiday preparations. Christmas services. same ways we are!

THE VOICE OF ZION DECEMBER 2020 | PAGE A Where do we live? DidDid you know that sending Christmas cards is an old tradition? It dates back to at least the 1840s. In the 1950s, believers in Finland began posting Christmas greetings in the Päivämies instead of or in addition to sending Christmas cards. This practice spread to North America in the early 1970s, as you can read on the front page of the December 1971 issue of Greetings of Peace. This was the believers’ newspaper before the formation of AALC in 1973. In this issue of the Voice of Zion, you can read Christmas greetings from believers in many parts of the world, including locations in the United States and Canada. As you look at the list below, consider what has led believers to these locations. Use an atlas or a reliable online map and place these locations on the map.  Bethel, CT  Roaring Fork Valley, CO  Brainerd, MN  Rockford, MN  Cokato, MN  Rolla, ND  Detroit, MI  Saskatoon, SK  Dunblane, SK  Seattle, WA  Elk River, MN  Spokane, WA  )$01ƛǾ  Thunder Bay, ON  Flathead Valley, MT  Toronto, ON  Gillette, WY  Ulster Park, NY  )"+!)"Ǿ  Waukegan, IL  Ishpeming, MI  West Barnstable, MA  Lake Worth, FL  Williston, ND  Lethbridge, AB  Wolf Lake, MN  Longview, WA  Menahga, MN  Minneapolis, MN  Monticello, MN  North Sound, WA  Outlook, SK  Pelkie, MI %,"+&5Ǿ /"0 ,11))"6Ǿ

PAGE B | DECEMBER 2020 THE VOICE OF ZION ,2 +)0,!,1%"#,)),4&+$ activities using this map:  How many states and provinces can you name without looking at a map?  Look in your 2020 LLC Telephone and !!/"00&/" 1,/6ǽ+6,2Ɯ+!-) "0 that believers live that are not in the list 1,1%")"ƞȄ/(1%"*,+1%"*-ǽ  Mark on the map where you and your parents were born.  Do you know where Summer Services will be held in 2021? Mark it on the map.  Where is Canada’s capitol city? Where is the United States’ capitol? Mark them on the map.  Draw your favorite natural monuments and geographical features on the map in the appropriate location.  Select a pencil or crayon in a favorite color and color all the provinces and states you have visited.  Select another color and color the states and provinces you would like to visit.  Label major lakes, rivers, seas, gulfs and oceans. Color them blue.

THE VOICE OF ZION DECEMBER 2020 | PAGE C 12!61%"%2/ %"/ "/" "$&++&+$+"4%2/ %"/ with the Advent season. The Church Year, however, is built /,2+!01"/ǽ3"+1%"0&$+&Ɯ + ",#%/&01*0&0 ,++" 1"!1,1%"02ƛ"/&+$Ǿ!"1%+!/"02//" 1&,+ of Christ. Each Sunday on the Church calendar has been assigned a theme with an Old Testament, New "01*"+1+! ,0-")"510ǽ-" &Ɯ -0)*0+! hymns are also chosen to correspond to the theme or church holiday.

Look at the drawing on the right: %"%2/ %6"/&0!&3&!"!&+1,Ǘ-/10ǿ%"Ɯ/01&0 FESTIVE, which starts with Advent and proceeds 1%/,2$%"+1" ,01Ȁ%&0Ɯ/01%)#,#1%"6"/&04%1 Christ has done for us.

The second part of the Church year is the ǿ 1%&0&04%1%/&014,2)!4+11,"ƛ" 1&+20Ǿ1%20&1 /"Ɲ" 101%"4,/(&+$,#1%" ,)6-&/&14&1%&+ &0(&+$!,*ǽ

1. Study the drawings of Christ in the center of the circle. Note the holidays placed around the circle.

2. Cut out the drawings at the bottom of this page. Tape or glue each into the outer circle alongside the corresponding holiday. Practice your language skills Vocabulary Questions for Discussion:

English Finnish Spanish 1. We light a candle each Advent Sunday. What do Church calendar Kirkkovuosikalenteri El Calendario Eclesiástico these candles symbolize? What is the theme of Advent Adventti El Adviento each Advent Sunday? Christmas Joulu La Navidad 2. The Trinity symbol is already placed in the Loppiainen El Día de los Reyes Magos middle of the church year. Why is this symbol an Good Friday Pitkäperjantai El Viernes Santo eye within a triangle? Why do you think it is Easter Pääsiäinen La Pascua -) "!ƞ"/"+1" ,01Ȅ Ascension Thursday Helatorstai El Día de la Ascensión Pentecost Helluntai El Pentecostés 3. Epiphany comes from the Greek word epifania Trinity Sunday Pyhän kolminaisuuden päivä La Trinidad which means “showing.” Discuss how this relates 1,%/&01ȉ0 &/1%Ǿ1,1%",/! "&+$*!"Ɲ"0%ǽ St. John’s Day Juhannuspäivä El Día de San Juan Bautista Michaelmas Day Mikkelinpäivä La Fiesta de San Miguel y de todos los Ángeles 4. Pentecost is the last festivity of the Easter All Saints’ Day Pyhäinpäivä El Día de Todos los Santos 0"0,+ǽ 1 ,*"0ǚǕ!60ƞ"/01"/+!/"-/"- Judgement Sunday Tuomiosunnuntai El Día del Juicio sents the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. Read Acts 2:1–4. Then describe, using your own words, what the Holy Spirit is to you. 5. 01"/#))0,+!&ƛ"/"+1!6" %6"/ǽ%1 determines when Easter is observed? Use a /")& )"/"0,2/ "1,Ɯ+!,21ǽ 6. How are these church holy days observed in your local congregation? If you are not sure of this, ask a minister for more information. 7. You can read the theme for each Sunday in our Lectionary."!1%"1%"*"0+!Ɯ+!,214%1 other information the Lectionary contains: https://www.llchurch.org/_assets/ resources/2021_LLC_LECTIONARY.pdf

PAGE D | DECEMBER 2020 THE VOICE OF ZION