Accent on Worship

“When they had heard the king, they set out; and there, ahead of them, went the star that they had
seen at its rising, until it stopped over the place where the child was. When they saw that the star had
stopped, they were overwhelmed with joy.”

 I love to think about the Magi going on their quest to find the baby Jesus, following a star in the sky. This star showed them the way. And once it stopped, they were overwhelmed with joy. I wonder what made them so joyful. Did they know their journey was almost complete? Were they excited to meet the infant Jesus and present him with gifts? Or could it be that they had some sense of what this birth meant? That suddenly everything had changed?

 We, too, need light to s how us the way. Sometimes it’s real light, like a flashlight that illumines the way to the outhouse, or a candle that lights up the house after the power has gone out. But we
also need light from people in our lives who help us understand, who teach us new ways of thinking, and who enable us to make sense of our experience.

 During my college physics classes, I would often have “lightbulb moments.” They were those times when suddenly everything made sense, when my math worked out, when a professor said something to me actually made sense. Be on the lookout for these “lightbulb moments” in your life, too. They don’t happen all the time, but when they do, they’re worth celebrating.

May the light of Christ fill you with joy during this season of Epiphany!

– Vicar Anna Helgen

Sunday Readings

January 10, 2016: Baptism of Our Lord
 Isaiah 43:1-7
Psalm 29
Acts 8:14-17
Luke 3:15-17, 21-22
 ______________________

January 17, 2016: 2nd Sunday after Epiphany
Isaiah 62:1-5
Psalm 36:5-10
I Corinthians 12:1-11
John 2:1-11

Transitions Support Group
 All are welcome at the Transitions Support Group. If you’re looking for new ideas or encouragement to meet the challenges or uncertainties that are before you, please consider joining us on January 13, 2016.

 This is an opportunity to share in fellowship, prayer, and discussion with others in the Mount Olive
community.

Transitions Support Group meets on Wednesday, January 13 from 6- 7 pm at Mount Olive in the lower level Youth Room, and will be facilitated by Cathy Bosworth and Amy Cotter.  For more information, please contact Cathy 612-708-1144, marcat8447@yahoo.com or Amy 612-710-1811,
agate651@gmail.com.

Thank you, thank you!
 Many thanks to the people of Mount Olive for the generous Christmas gifts we received, and for all your kindness and support throughout the year! You are Christ to us in so many ways, and we are deeply grateful for you in our lives.

 Blessings and peace to you all in this new year in God’s care!

– The staff of Mount Olive: David Cherwien, Joseph Crippen,
Anna Helgen, Cha Posz, William Pratley, and Anna Scott.

Thursday Evening Study Returns Jan. 7
 Starting January 7, the Thursday evening study will begin meeting again in the Chapel Lounge from
6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. “Singing the Lord’s Song in a Strange Land” is the title, with the group exploring the book of Daniel.

Written in a time of national tribulation and set in another such time, the book explores how God’s faithful live faithful lives in a threatening world.

As always, there will be a light supper preceding the study each week.

Book Discussion Group
 Mount Olive’s Book Discussion Group meets on the second Saturday of each month, at 10:00
a.m. in the West Assembly Area at church. All readers are welcome!

For the January 9 meeting, they will read Grand Opening, by Jon Hassler, and for February 13, they will read God’s Hotel, by Victoria Sweet.

Desk Needed!

 The German family that Mount Olive has helped to bring to Minneapolis for a short-term work/study period would like a small desk to use. If you have a desk that you could lend them until the end of July, please contact Lora Dundek with the dimensions (lhdundek@usfamily.net). We have a desk chair already. Thanks.

New Opportunity for Ministry

 The Congregational Life Committee is looking for people who would be willing to assist members who have difficulty or are more cautious walking from the south parking lot to church.

 For more information, contact Sandra Pranschke at spranschke@gmail.com, or 612-859-5448.

Winter Gear Drive Continues

 Neighborhood Ministries is receiving donations of winter gear for children and adults.  New or gently used items can be donated in the box near the coat room. There is designated space for coats in
the coat rack. Items will be given away at the Community Meal throughout the winter or brought to the Central Lutheran Free Store.

Thank you!

TRUST’s Annual Martin Luther King Celebration
Sunday, January 17, 5:00 pm, Living Spirit United Methodist Church,
4501 Bloomington Avenue South
 Join us for fellowship and music. Featuring the voice of Libby Turner, Ann Jensen, and Leon Patterson reflecting on their journey to Selma for the 50th anniversary of the Selma to
Montgomery March. TRUST Youth will provide music and lead the service.

 A soup and sandwich supper will follow the service, and a freewill offering will be received.

Confronting Racism: A Holy Yearning

 ELCA Presiding Bishop Elizabeth A. Eaton and William B. Horne, an ELCA member from Clearwater, Fla., will continue their conversation on racism – a violation of God’s intention for
humanity – in another live webcast Jan. 14, 2016, at 8 p.m. (CST). Eaton and Horne will be joined by other ELCA members who bring various perspectives on the U.S. criminal justice system. As with the previous webcast, this one will be grounded by two commitments. One is this church’s
proclamation of Christ and the confidence this good news brings to set us free from the captivity of racism. The second is this church’s enduring commitment to address the complexity of racism and end discrimination.

 Mount Olive will host this webinar broadcast in the Chapel Lounge starting at 8:00 pm on Thursday, Jan. 14, immediately following Thursday Bible Study. We will gather in the West Assembly Area beginning at 7:30 pm. We will watch together and have a discussion with other churches and
neighbors.

Sunday’s Adult Forum: January 10
“Islam and Christianity,” presented by John Matthews

 John Matthews is pastor of Grace Lutheran Church in Apple Valley. John is a graduate of Concordia College (Moorhead, MN), Luther Seminary (St. Paul, MN), and did post-graduate study at the International Center for Holocaust Education at Yad Vashem in Jerusalem. For ten years, he has been an adjunct professor of religion at Augsburg College’s Rochester Campus and has been very active in interfaith dialogue, especially Jewish-Christian, Native American, and Christian-Muslim.

In November 2015, John was recognized by the Islamic Resource Group of Minnesota with their “Building Bridges” Award, for his interfaith activity. He is the author of Anxious Souls Will Ask: The Christ-Centered Spirituality of Dietrich Bonhoeffer (Eerdmans, 2005) and Bonhoeffer: A Brief Overview of the Life and Writings of Dietrich Bonhoeffer (Lutheran University Press, 2011).

 John presented on Dietrich Bonhoeffer in Mount Olive’s 2014-2015 forums.

Help Wanted for Our Saviour’s Meals

 It’s sign-up time for serving at Our Saviour’s Shelter!  Mount Olive serves on the second Sunday of every month.

If you have served before you know how rewarding it is to meet the residents and to have dinner with them. There is a 2016 calendar where you can put your name down for the month that is best for you.
 More hands are always welcome!

Altar Flowers

 The sign up chart for weekly altar flowers has been posted in its usual spot next to the church office. If you would like to sign up to provide flowers for worship to commemorate a special day, in memory of a loved one, in honor of a special event, or simply to help beautify our church for worship, please sign up on the chart for the date you want, and be sure to include your designation.

The cost of the altar flowers this year is $50 per Sunday for two bouquets. If you wish to provide only one of the bouquets, simply sign on only one of the two lines provided for each Sunday. The cost for one bouquet is $25. Use the envelopes provided below the chart.

News from the Neighborhood
Anna Scott

Neighborhood Ministries Direct Care Report

 One of the ministries we offer at Mount Olive is Direct Care in which, through generous funding from the congregation, we can assist our neighbors and friends with needs like a bus card, a laundry voucher, or help paying rent, utilities, or other emergencies.

 This year we helped with:
RENT: 49 people with a total of $ 3,716.53
UTILITIES: 24 people with a total of $ 1,322.96
EMERGENCY: 39 people with a total of $ 1,951.77
GAVE: 83 Bus Cards and 86 Laundry Vouchers

Diaper Depot Report

 Mount Olive hosts a Diaper Depot open to anyone who needs it as a way to lift a small piece of financial burden from parents. It is open Tues. 4:30-6:30 and Thurs. 1:30 – 3:30 downstairs by the Youth room. It’s a lovely place to see families, meet neighbors, and oogle at cute kiddos! The Depot
offers a bit of rest, a place to talk, extra supplies, and some savings to our friends.

“The Diaper Depot has lifted some financial burden from my family. I am very blessed to get discounted diapers.” – client

This year we:
– Helped 350 families who came to the depot (187 of those clients were new – the word keeps spreading!)
-Sold 1,908 packs of diapers

THANK YOU for your continued support of these ministries! As Hilda, one of our neighbors who received assistance said, “Keep it up. You really are helping out here.”
 

Mark Your Calendars
Sunday, January 31, 2016, 4:00 p.m.
“A Winter Tapestry” – From Age to Age Choral Ensemble
 Mount Olive Music & Fine Arts is pleased to welcome From Age to Age choral ensemble for
the first time on their concert series. From Age to Age brings a program that will warm your
heart as you listen to an eclectic mixture of repertoire representing all musical eras, and the standard of excellence that resounds the mission of our ensemble.

 A reception follows the concert in the church’s Chapel Lounge. This event is free and open to the public; a free-will offering will be received to support the Music and Fine Arts program.

Coming Events of Interest
– Sat., Jan, 16, 7:30 pm: We Shall Overcome: a concert by Cantus and the Minnesota
Boychoir (celebrating the dream of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Mount Calvary
Lutheran Church, Excelsior, MN.

– Sat., Jan 16, Noon, 2, 4, and 6 pm: Scandinavian Lutefisk and Meatball Dinner. First
Lutheran Church, Columbia Heights, MN.

– Mon., Jan 18, beginning at 9:30 am: MLK Jr. Day (lectures, worship lunch and panel
discussion) Luther Seminary, St. Paul.

– Sat., Jan 30, 7 pm: Luther College Symphony Orchestra concert, Trinity Lutheran
Church, Stillwater, MN.

– Mon., Feb. 1, 7:00 pm – Luther College Nordic Choir concert. University Lutheran
Church of Hope, Minneapolis.

Accent on Worship

     Monday morning the 21st, some very good friends of mine were scheduled for an induction to have their 7-day overdue baby. Upon arriving at the hospital at 7:00 am, they were told that there is a “flurry of babies” already that morning and their schedule was pushed back a few hours. All of the anticipation and anxiety that they are already holding is now postponed, if only hours, while many other families participate in the same miracle and cycle of life all around them. As of this moment that I’m writing they are still waiting at the hospital, and we do not know how this will all turn out for them. It makes me ponder many things, especially how some of these stories may not turn out so well, or that by tomorrow the lives of my dear friends will be incredibly different than today.

     They do not know the gender yet, but of course everyone has their guesses. They have a few names picked out, but are waiting to see their baby to find one that fits. How different it was for Mary, who, being told she would have a son, and his name would be Emmanuel, was then left to wait and to wonder. What would he be like? What does the son of God look like? Will he have his father’s nose, or his heavenly father’s eyes? What will the day after he comes be like? It reminds me of “Mary, did you know?,” my sister’s favorite Christmas time song.  It asks the questions that may have fluttered in Mary’s mind, though she could not have known the answers. “Did you know that your baby boy is heaven’s perfect Lamb? This sleeping child you’re holding is the great I am.”

     The time will come for my friends today, and soon enough all the waiting will seem like a distant dream and hopefully, Lord willing, they will hold their new baby with a new sense of hope and anticipation, just like Mary did. Tomorrow will come and they will get to wonder about their baby, its future, and the world that will surround all of them. But those are all thoughts for tomorrow.

     May we all find peace amidst our anticipation, whatever it may be, trusting that God is working in us, through us, and all around us. Amen.

– Anna Scott

Christmas at Mount Olive

Christmas Eve: Thursday, December 24
Choral Prelude at 9:30 p.m.
Holy Eucharist at 10:00 p.m.

Christmas Day: Friday, December 25 
Festival Eucharist at 10:00 a.m.

First Sunday of Christmas: Sunday, December 27 
Holy Eucharist at 8:00 and 10:45 a.m.

The Name of Jesus: Friday, January 1, 2016
Festival Eucharist at 10:00 a.m.

Second Sunday of Christmas, January 3, 2016
Holy Eucharist at 8:00 and 10:45 a.m.

The Epiphany of Our Lord: Wednesday, January 6, 2016
Festival Eucharist at 7:00 p.m.

The Baptism of Our Lord: Sunday, January 10, 2016
Festival Eucharist at 8:00 & 10:45 a.m.

Sunday’s Adult Forum

December 27: A Christmas Carol and hymn sing, led by Cantor Cherwien.

Christmas Carry-In Breakfast 

     Celebrate the Feast of the Nativity, December 25, with a carry-in breakfast preceding the liturgy.

     Bring a favorite Christmas food and enjoy a time of conversation with fellow Mount Olive worshipers from 9:00 to 9:45.

New Opportunity for Ministry

     The Congregational Life Committee is looking for people who would be willing to assist members who have difficulty or are more cautious walking from the south parking lot to church.

     For more information, contact Sandra Pranschke at spranschke@gmail.com, or 612-859-5448.

Winter Gear Drive Continues

     Neighborhood Ministries is receiving donations of winter gear for children and adults.

     New or gently used items can be donated in the box near the coat room. There is designated space for coats in the coat rack. Items will be given away at the Community Meal throughout the winter or brought to the Central Lutheran Free Store. Thank you!

Give Stock or Mutual Fund Shares

     Instead of using cash, make your year-end gift to the church or Mount Olive Foundation with appreciated stock or mutual fund shares.  In addition to receiving an income tax deduction for 2015, transferring these assets to the church or the Foundation enables you to avoid capital gains taxes on their appreciation.  Giving stock or mutual fund shares also allows many people to make a larger gift than might have been possible with cash.

     To learn more about stock or mutual fund gifts, please contact Andrew Held, Thrivent Financial, at (952) 475-9700 or andrew.held@thrivent.com.  With all gifts of appreciated assets, you are encouraged to consult with your tax advisor prior to making any gift.

Book Discussion Group Update

     Mount Olive’s Book Discussion Group meets on the second Saturday of each month, at 10:00 a.m. in the West Assembly Area at church. All readers are welcome!  For the January 9 meeting, they will read Grand Opening, by Jon Hassler, and for February 13, they will read God’s Hotel, by Victoria Sweet.

Help Wanted for Our Saviour’s Meals

     It’s sign-up time for serving at Our Saviour’s Shelter!

     Mount Olive serves on the second Sunday of every month.  If you have served before you know how rewarding it is to meet the residents and to have dinner with them.  There is a 2016 calendar where you can put your name down for the month that is best for you.      

     More hands are always welcome!

Advent Centering Prayer

     Centering prayer is offered on Wednesdays during Advent, from 6-6:30 pm, in the north transept (near the columbarium) prior to Advent Vespers services.

     Dec. 23 will be the last session until Lent. Centering Prayer will resume in Lent, on Wednesday, February 25 and continue throughout Lent.    

     Questions? Call Sue Ellen Zagrabelny at 612-875-7865.

Olive Branch Publication Schedule

     There will no Olive Branch published during the week between Christmas and New Year’s Day. Regular weekly publication will resume on Wednesday, January 6.

Thanks!

     Many thanks to Steve Manuel, Gary Pagel, Dan Adams and Peggy Hoeft, for procuring the greens and organizing their hanging this past Sunday as we prepare the nave for Christmas.

     Thanks also to the many volunteers who gathered to decorate the trees, and to Paul Nixdorf who organized the display of Nativity scenes in our public spaces.

News From the Neighborhood
Anna Scott, Coordinator of Neighborhood Outreach & Ministry

     The Mount Olive Youth and a few neighbors spent a Sunday afternoon making lefse and Christmas cookies together. The cookies were served at the last Community Meal where they received high praises from our guests, along with the place mats the kids had decorated. Thank you!

Nextdoor is a website built to connect neighbors with one another to share news, information, and help. Mount Olive is participating in Nextdoor for the Powderhorn Park neighborhood and it has given us a unique insight in to what are the needs and concerns of our neighbors. To be involved in your own neighborhood, go to Nextdoor.com to see if there is already a network going and register to get connected!

Thank you for continuing to pray for our neighborhood throughout Advent. If you have any thoughts or insights please share them with me over the phone, an email, or I would love to get tea or coffee to discuss what you’ve discovered! Contact me at neighborhood@mountolivechurch.org

Nativity Set Display

     During the Christmas Season and for a short time after Epiphany there will be a display of Nativity sets in the display case, the West Assembly area and in the Chapel Lounge.  All of the sets have been graciously loaned to us from Mount Olive members and friends. Also, please check out the Christmas tree in the West Assembly area which is filled with Nativity ornaments and the hanging German Christmas Pyramid. There is a card with each Nativity set with a description and origin.

     Because these sets are on loan to Mount Olive and are fragile we are please asking that no one touches or moves any of the pieces.  They are there for viewing only.

     Leanna Kloempken has assembled a set of books from the church library about the Nativity and they will be part of the display, too.

     If you own or know of other Nativity sets that could be displayed next Christmas please let me know.

     A Blessed Christmas to all.

– Paul Nixdorf, Aesthetics Committee

Hennig Endowment Fund

     Near the end of Gene Hennig’s life, he and Kristie created the “Gene H. and Kristin C. Hennig Endowed Fund for Mount Olive Lutheran Church.”  Annual income from the Fund is unrestricted and may be used to address any ministry and/or need of the Church.  In their fund agreement, Gene reflected that Mount Olive “has allowed us to worship God throughout our marriage in a way that has been a great blessing to us.”  Creation of this fund remained a high priority through Gene’s final days.

     Gene and Kristie made it clear that the announcement of the Hennig Fund was not an opportunity for self-promotion but instead a chance to highlight the Mount Olive Foundation and to encourage others to establish a similar fund.  This is now the fifth such fund created for the Foundation’s benefit, joining those established by Eleanor Krumerich, Harold and Marie Sulzbach, anonymous donors, and Warren and Anne Bartz.  With a gift of $25,000 or more, donors can establish a fund which provides perpetual unrestricted support or benefits a specific Mount Olive ministry.  All fund assets, like the Foundation’s overall endowment, are managed by the ELCA Foundation.

     If you would like to learn more about this opportunity, please contact Keith Bartz at albsinmpls@yahoo.com or (612) 823-3572.

Give Stock or Mutual Fund Shares

     Instead of using cash, make your year-end gift to the church or Mount Olive Foundation with appreciated stock or mutual fund shares.  In addition to receiving an income tax deduction for 2015, transferring these assets to the church or the Foundation enables you to avoid capital gains taxes on their appreciation.  Giving stock or mutual fund shares also allows many people to make a larger gift than might have been possible with cash.

     To learn more about stock or mutual fund gifts, please contact Andrew Held, Thrivent Financial, at (952) 475-9700 or andrew.held@thrivent.com.  With all gifts of appreciated assets, you are encouraged to consult with your tax advisor prior to making any gift.

Study of Daniel Begins Jan. 7

     Pr. Crippen will begin a six-week series on the book of Daniel Thursday, Jan. 7. “Singing the Lord’s Song in a Strange Land” will be the theme, considering the richness and strangeness of these stories and of this prophet’s ministry and reflect on faith in an alien culture.

     The Thursday Bible studies begin with a light supper at 6:00 p.m. and end at 7:30 p.m. All are welcome!

Transitions Support Group

     All are welcome at the Transitions Support Group. If you’re looking for new ideas or encouragement to meet the challenges or uncertainties that are before you, please consider joining us on January 13, 2016.

     This is an opportunity to share in fellowship, prayer, and discussion with others in the Mount Olive community.

Transitions Support Group meets on Wednesday, January 13 from 6- 7 pm at Mount Olive in the lower level Youth Room, and will be facilitated by Cathy Bosworth and Amy Cotter.

     For more information, please contact Cathy 612-708-1144, marcat8447@yahoo.com or Amy 612-710-1811, agate651@gmail.com.

Accent on Worship

Advent People

     “Advent may be one of the most counter-cultural things we do. Waiting, anticipating, patiently watching for God’s blessing to blossom in the world – this is not the way of the world. We live in an instant gratification culture, where people loudly declare what they want and then expect someone to provide it. Our culture lacks the patience to work through the ills of society in a wise and careful and fruitful way, preferring short term answers which may or may not be good for the long term. Our culture teaches us to embrace our entitlement instead of our responsibility.”

     I wrote that in this space in my first Advent with you, and came across it recently. It seems even more true today. Given the frantic and frightening times in which we live, I find myself wondering what might happen if we truly embraced being counter-cultural? That is, if we prayed that the Holy Spirit might make us so like Christ we looked like Christ and not like the world that surrounds us? If we weren’t afraid to be different?

     Might we begin to be people whose Advent reality seeps into the culture? A friend at a time, a co-worker at a time, a family member at a time, could others perhaps see our lives and learn to watch for and work with God for this world’s healing?

     We follow the God who came among us as a vulnerable child in poverty, to a family like millions around the world with very little to live on. What if we welcomed such families today, even if loud voices around us shout, “they don’t matter!” We follow the God who became a refugee among us, dependent upon the kindness of strangers to welcome a family running away from violence. What if we were such kind strangers, even if loud voices around us shout, “keep away!” We follow the God who suffered death unjustly to bear love into a world of hate. What if we became such sufferers in love in this world, even if loud voices around us spew hate daily?

     We can only know what would happen when we actually do this. When we become bearers of Advent in this world in our bodies and voices and hands and hearts and lives. When we pray, “Amen, come, Lord Jesus,” and by that mean we seek the spirit of Christ to make us Christ.

     But we have this promise: as Christ continues to be born among us and shape us, all flesh will see God’s salvation. Surely that’s worth praying for. Surely that’s worth being different for.

     Amen. Come, Lord Jesus.

– Joseph

Sunday Readings

December 20, 2015: Fourth Sunday of Advent
Micah 5:2-5a
Psalmody: Luke 1:46b-55
Hebrews 10:5-10
Luke 1:39-45 [46-55]

December 27, 2015: First Sunday of Christmas
I Samuel 2:18-20, 26
Psalm 148
Colossians 3:12-17
Luke 2:41-52

Sunday’s Adult Forum

December 20: “Elizabeth and Mary: Bearers of Hope,” presented by Vicar Anna Helgen.

Hanging the Greens to be Held This Sunday

     Many hands make light work, so all are invited to come and help decorate the nave and chancel for our Christmas celebrations at Mount Olive.  This Sunday, Dec. 20, after second liturgy, is the hanging of the greens, where all wreaths and roping are placed.  Any who wish to help, just come to the nave after coffee time – BYOB (bring your own broom!).

Fair Trade Sale – Last Week

     The Missions Committee will continue to host the fair trade sale for one more week.  Purchase beautiful and unique fair trade items made by artisans in developing regions around the world.  These items are available from SERRV, a nonprofit fair trade organization whose mission is to eradicate poverty wherever it resides by providing opportunity and support to artisans and farmers worldwide.

     The handcrafted fair trade items will be available for purchase after both services on December 20 (cash and check only).  See the attachment to view some of the items that will be for sale.  Fair trade coffee, chocolate and cashews from Equal Exchange through Lutheran World Relief’s Coffee Project will also be available.  This is not a fund-raiser, just an opportunity to buy good products for a good cause.  

Give Stock or Mutual Fund Shares

     Instead of using cash, make your year-end gift to the church or Mount Olive Foundation with appreciated stock or mutual fund shares.  In addition to receiving an income tax deduction for 2015, transferring these assets to the church or the Foundation enables you to avoid capital gains taxes on their appreciation.  Giving stock or mutual fund shares also allows many people to make a larger gift than might have been possible with cash.

     To learn more about stock or mutual fund gifts, please contact Andrew Held, Thrivent Financial, at (952) 475-9700 or andrew.held@thrivent.com.  With all gifts of appreciated assets, you are encouraged to consult with your tax advisor prior to making any gift.

New Opportunity for Ministry

     The Congregational Life Committee is looking for people who would be willing to assist members who have difficulty or are more cautious walking from the south parking lot to church.
     For more information, contact Sandra Pranschke at spranschke@gmail.com, or 612-859-5448.

Staff Christmas Gifts

     As is our tradition, this is the time of year that we gather monetary gifts for our terrific church staff. If you would like to contribute, please note “staff gifts” on your check and deposit it in the offering plate on Sunday morning or send it to the church office. Please have the gifts in by Sunday, December 20.

     Thanks for your generosity.

Christmas Carry-In Breakfast

     Celebrate the Feast of the Nativity, December 25, with a carry-in breakfast preceding the liturgy.
     Bring a favorite Christmas food and enjoy a time of conversation with fellow Mount Olive worshipers from 9:00 to 9:45.

To the Wearers of Albs

     ‘Tis the season! Joy, peace, hymns, and wax.

     All of the server’s albs have been laundered. Some of them have reached their final resting place. Please inform me if you have a wax accident, and I will clean the alb as quickly as possible.

     Thank you for your service.

– Carol Austermann
   

Deadline!

     The deadline for information for the weekly Olive Branch is on Monday of the week it is to be published.  Please have all information to be included in the newsletter in to the office by Monday of that week.

     Thanks for your help!

Vestry Update

     Tim Lindholm has stepped aside as Mount Olive Treasurer. Kat Campbell-Johnson has agreed to handle the Treasurer’s duties and the Vestry is develop-ing a plan for accomplishing this work until a new Treasurer is elected at the semi-annual congregation meeting in April.

     We will update the congregation as these plans develop.

Book Discussion Group Update

     Mount Olive’s Book Discussion Group meets on the second Saturday of each month, at 10:00 a.m. in the West Assembly Area at church. All readers are welcome!  For the January 9 meeting, they will read Grand Opening, by Jon Hassler, and for February 13, they will read God’s Hotel, by Victoria Sweet.

Advent Centering Prayer

     All are welcome to participate in an opportunity for contemplation during the season of Advent.

     Centering prayer will be offered on Wednesday during Advent, from 6-6:30 pm, in the north transept (near the columbarium) prior to Advent Vespers services, beginning December 2.

     New to Centering Prayer? Each session begins with a short instruction. A brief reading from the Psalms and the sound of a bell will signal the beginning of a 20-minute period of silent contemplation. The bell will then signal the end of the session which will end with the Lord’s Prayer.

     Questions? Call Sue Ellen Zagrabelny at 612-875-7865.

Olive Branch Publication Schedule

     There will no Olive Branch published during the week between Christmas and New Year’s Day. Regular weekly publication will resume on Wednesday, January 6.

News From the Neighborhood
Anna Scott, Coordinator of Neighborhood Outreach & Ministry

     Another big THANK YOU to all who have helped fill our donation corner to the brim!    

     Deliveries will be made to our partner organizations this week, and some used for ministries here at Mount Olive. Here’s a snapshot of who we work with and support with these gifts!

• Food goes to: Sabathani Community Center on 38th St and 4th Ave and CES on 11th and Franklin;
• Coats go to: Central Lutheran Church downtown. Central runs a Restoration Center with resource assistance and a Free Store – a great place to send household donations throughout the year!
• Home Care baskets go to: Our Saviour’s Housing for their transitional housing residents. Hygiene supplies (like hotel shampoo and soap) are collected year round for use in their emergency shelter;
• Hats, Gloves, Scarves go to: Neighborhood Ministries to be distributed at the Community Meal throughout the winter.

All collected supplies are also used in our daily “direct care” ministry here. Any day that someone comes in I can speak with them about what needs they may have. It may be help paying a bill or rent, but often includes basic needs like a warm meal, a pair of gloves, or a supply of soap. It is a blessing to offer these things as people need them because they are readily supplied by you. If ever anyone comes to this church, please feel free to use these items to serve their needs. There are cans of soup stored on the top of the coat rack or please reach right in to the grocery cart and ask what they can use. Warm it up for them in the kitchen. Offer a kit of shampoo and soap and toothpaste. If they don’t have gloves, feel free to offer some. It is there to be given away. If they have more pressing needs, please give them the office phone number and have them contact me. Please keep in mind that these services and offerings are not only for neighbors, but for the Mount Olive community as well. If you or your family are experiencing hardship in any season, please feel encouraged to contact me or Pastor Crippen in confidence about ways we can offer support and community.

    Thank you for your help in serving our friends and neighbors!

Alternative Gift Giving

     Are you looking for something different to do this year for Christmas gifts?  Take part in a growing tradition by giving gifts that help those in need.  The Missions Committee is promoting the idea of alternative gift giving this Christmas.  For example, in honor of a loved one, you can buy playground toys for refugee children in Kenya through Lutheran World Relief.  We have catalogues from different charitable organizations that you can use or you can order from the organizations’ websites.

Some of these organizations are:
• Lutheran World Relief:    http://lwrgifts.org
• Heifer Project International:   http://www.heifer.org
• Common Hope : http://commonhopecatalog.myshopify.com
• Bethania Kids:   http://bethaniakids.org/creative-giving-catalog
• Evangelical Lutheran Church in America: www.elca.org/goodgifts

(We will have ornaments during the fair trade sale that you can use to make a donation).

Youthlink Donations –

     I am still taking donations of clothing items and toiletries for homeless teens.  The following items are most needed currently by homeless teens who are on the street: travel- sized toiletries, adult sized winter clothing, jackets, coats,  men’s jeans, hand and foot warmers, thinner gloves.  Please leave any donations in the coat room in a bag labelled “Youthlink” by this Sunday Dec. 20.  If you have any questions, please contact Julie Manuel via email to julie.a.manuel@gmail.com or by phone at 612-695-6198.

– Julie Manuel

Hats, Scarves, Mittens Oh my!

     Neighborhood Ministries is receiving donations of winter gear for children and adults.

     New or gently used items can be donated in the box near the coat room. There is designated space for coats in the coat rack. Items will be given away at the Community Meal throughout the winter or brought to the Central Lutheran Free Store. Thank you!

Images of God: Thursday Bible Study     

     The second session of Thursday Bible Study is underway and runs through  tomorrow evening, December 17.  The study, “Images of God,” is led by Vicar Anna Helgen and explores how we talk about God through the language of image and metaphor. The sessions will reflect on common images of God and participants will have the opportunity to share a creative presentation of an image of God that speaks to them. The sessions begin with a light supper at 6:00 p.m.

       Pr. Crippen will begin a 6-week study of Daniel on Thursday, Jan. 7, 2016.

A Recipe for you!

Some people have requested the recipe for the chocolate drink served at the Fair Trade sale on Sunday, Dec. 6. Here it is.

Barcelona Hot Chocolate

2/3 cup boiling water
2 ounces good-quality dark or bittersweet (60 to 70 percent cocoa) chocolate, finely chopped
1 1/3 cups 1% low-fat milk
1 cup brewed espresso or strong coffee (regular or decaffeinated)
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 cup packed brown sugar
1 2-inch piece orange rind strip
1/4 cup frozen fat-free whipped topping, thawed
Cocoa powder (optional)

Preparation

Combine 2/3 cup boiling water and chopped chocolate in a medium saucepan, stirring until chocolate melts. Add milk and next 4 ingredients (through rind); cook over medium-low heat, stirring with a whisk. Heat 5 minutes or until tiny bubbles form around edge of pan, stirring frequently (do not boil). Discard rind. Pour 1 cup mixture into each of 4 mugs. Spoon 1 tablespoon whipped topping over each serving. Dust with cocoa powder, if desired.

Makes 4 servings.

Accent on Worship

Now the natural world
is dormant
now is the time of darkness
sunlight is waning
life is in seeming stasis
and in this dark time
this time of dormancy
and twilight
the church
moves into Advent.

Longing is at
the heart of the
darkness
in Advent.
longing
for possibility
longing
for fulfillment
as children
it is a longing
for Christmas
and the birth of the baby Jesus
and that is enough
But as we age
the longing
broadens
deepens
includes
more than ourselves
and family
it is a longing
for
completion
justice
for peace
in the dark time of the year
woven in the darkness of time
fulfillment is growing a body
in the dark time of the year
in the dark.
all earth is hopeful.
                   
Excerpted from “Longing,” a text by Susan Palo Cherwien from her book, “From Glory Into Glory: Reflections for Worship.”

Sunday Readings

December 13, 2015: Third Sunday of Advent
Zephaniah 3:14-20
Psalmody: Isaiah 12:2-6
Philippians 4:4-7
Luke 3:7-18

December 20, 2015: Fourth Sunday of Advent
 Micah 5:2-5a
Psalmody: Luke 1:46b-55
Hebrews 10:5-10
Luke 1:39-45 [46-55]

Midweek Advent Vespers
Wednesdays, Dec. 2, 9, 16, and 23
7:00 p.m. 

Sunday’s Adult Forum

December 13: No teaching forum this day. All are invited to the St. Lucia Scandinavian Brunch.

Hanging the Greens

     Many hands make light work, so all are invited to come and help decorate the nave and chancel for our Christmas celebrations at Mount Olive.  On Sunday, Dec. 20, after second liturgy, is the hanging of the greens, where all wreaths and roping are placed.  Any who wish to help, just come to the nave after coffee time – BYOB (bring your own broom!).

Fair Trade Sale

     The Missions Committee fair trade sale continues.  New items have been ordered for the next two weeks.  Purchase beautiful and unique fair trade items made by artisans in developing regions around the world.  These items are available from SERRV, a nonprofit fair trade organiza-tion whose mission is to eradicate poverty wherever it resides by providing opportun-ity and support to artisans and farmers worldwide.

     The handcrafted fair trade items will be available for purchase after both services on December 13 and 20 (cash and check only).  See the attachment to view some of the items that will be for sale and to read an artisan’s story.  Fair trade coffee, chocolate and other food products from Equal Exchange through Lutheran World Relief’s Coffee Project will also be available.
     This is not a fund-raiser, just an opportunity to buy good products for a good cause.

Welcome, New Members!

     This past Sunday, December 6, Mount Olive was pleased to welcome the following folks into membership:

Dan & Janelle Wade, Harry & Jeanette Eklund, Col Erlandson, Janet Meeks, Emily Hellerich, and Chandler & Tricia Van Ee Molbert and their daughter, Elena. Jerry Ostlund (previously received as an Associate Member) moved into full membership.

Staff Christmas Gifts

     As is our tradition, this is the time of year that we gather monetary gifts for our terrific church staff. If you would like to contribute, please note “staff gifts” on your check and deposit it in the offering plate on Sunday morning or send it to the church office. Please have the gifts in by Sunday, December 20.

     Thanks for your generosity.

TRUST Youth: Aliveness Project Holiday Baskets

     This past Sunday, Eric Manuel participated with TRUST Youth in the annual Aliveness Project Holiday Baskets activity.  Over $1000 was raised for the kids to purchase gifts for families living with AIDS.  The kids had lunch at Lutheran Church of Christ the Redeemer, headed to Target to make their purchases for 11 individuals, and then headed back to wrap the gifts.  Our group had a mother we purchased for, and we were able to get her a vacuum, a coffee pot, some kitchen knives, and pans.  All in all, it was an awesome time – thank you to those who donated to this event!

Tending the Family of God

     Duty and delight.

     We Christians tend to use those two words together. For example, it is our duty and delight to give God praise and thanks. Similarly, it is our duty and delight to care for one another.
     If someone you have seen at worship has started to be missing, care for them. Make a phone call, write a note, send an email.

     Duty and delight.

To the Wearers of Albs

     ‘Tis the season! Joy, peace, hymns, and wax.

All of the server’s albs have been laundered. Some of them have reached their final resting place. Please inform me if you have a wax accident, and I will clean the alb as quickly as possible.

Thank you for your service.

– Carol Austermann
   

Deadline!

     The deadline for information for the weekly Olive Branch is on the Monday of the week it is to be published.  Please have all information to be included in the newsletter in to the office by Monday of that week.

     Thanks for your help!
   

National Lutheran Choir Christmas Festival Concerts: “The Spotless Rose”

Fri., December 11, 2014  (4:30 pm & 8 pm) and
Sat., December 12, 2014 (8pm)
Basilica of Saint Mary, 88 N. 17th St., Minneapolis

     Immerse yourself in the beauty and majesty of the Basilica
of Saint Mary for the National Lutheran Choir’s signature
Christmas Festival Concert. During this busy season of
parties, shopping and rushing around, take time to reflect
upon the true meaning of Christmas through sacred song,
poetry and readings.

     Tickets: $28 Adult, $25 Senior, $10 Student, age 17
and under FREE. For tickets or more information
call (888) 747-4589, or visit www.nlca.com.

Book Discussion Group Update

     Mount Olive’s Book Discussion Group meets on the second Saturday of each month, at 10:00 am in the West Assembly Area at church. All readers are welcome!  For the December 12 meeting they will read The Turn of the Screw, by Henry James. For the January 16 meeting they will read, All the Light We Cannot See, by Anthony Doerr.

Advent Centering Prayer

     All are welcome to participate in an opportunity for contemplation during the season of Advent.

     Centering prayer will be offered on Wednesday during Advent, from 6-6:30 pm, in the north transept (near the columbarium) prior to Advent Vespers services, beginning December 2.

     New to Centering Prayer? Each session begins with a short instruction. A brief reading from the Psalms and the sound of a bell will signal the beginning of a 20-minute period of silent contemplation. The bell will then signal the end of the session which will end with the Lord’s Prayer.
     Questions? Call Sue Ellen Zagrabelny at 612-875-7865.

News From the Neighborhood

Anna Scott, Coordinator of Neighborhood Outreach & Ministry

Advent Perspectives

     The last two weeks has been both relieving and frustrating at the same time. The calls are flooding in for direct care as funding from the federal government has dried up and any organization that helps with emergency assistance needed to use it by November 30. That means there’s not much wiggle room for people if they get behind, which is tough always, but especially in December. As my brain starts reeling in efforts to meet people’s needs and see in to the future and plan and prepare and work, my eyes glance to the now hanging neighborhood map with its tiny colored dots. Or they rest on my devotional book on my desk or I may smell the fragrance of the often burning candle I light at home for my evening tea. I am reminded to Advent. I am reminded to not just wait, but anticipate – to know that something is coming and is ahead for us, and hopeful amidst the chaos and frustration and heartache. That’s what we (me, neighborhood ministries, you, this church) are doing. We are praying and resting in the wait for how we are to work and move in our neighborhood and world. It’s been a gift and relief to let go of that consistent pressure to move ahead, and this process has created a place to lay down those winding plans and know that God is working and moving in us, through us, and for us. Please continue to pray with us for this neighborhood and the lives that it holds. Thank you.

Home Baskets for Our Saviour’s Housing

     Give a home basket to a resident in Our Saviour’s Transitional Housing. Their 100 permanent supportive housing residents (73 men, 27 women) have all gained their own apartments after years of homelessness and health problems. The residents’ limited budgets make it tough for them to afford many essential items to really make their house a home. Brighten their holidays and ease their budgets by providing a festive gift basket! Please note that we serve primarily men and no children. You may choose what to include, but we suggest items such as:

• Kitchenware (including cooking & eating)    • Shower curtains and liners    • Mini desk fans
• Basic tools    • Throw blankets and pillows    • Towel and full bed sheet sets    • Headphones  • Household décor items such as picture frames   • Calendars or day planners   • Clock radio  
• Socks, gloves, hats, scarves, or slippers    

*For an extra special gift basket, you might also include: • Gift Cards for Target or Cub Foods/Rainbow   • Personal hygiene items     • Candy, cookies, snack mixes, cocoa, coffee, tea, or other treats     • Costume jewelry, make-up, or wallets

Gifts can be packaged in any way: a laundry basket, reusable shopping bag, gift bag, plastic tub, etc. Consider a foldable personal shopping cart for an extra special gift! Feel free to decorate the gift or include a card.  ***Can be dropped off in hallway by the coats/kitchen

Alternative Gift Giving

     Are you looking for something different to do this year for Christmas gifts?  Take part in a growing tradition by giving gifts that help those in need.  The Missions Committee is promoting the idea of alternative gift giving this Christmas.  For example, in honor of a loved one, you can buy playground toys for refugee children in Kenya through Lutheran World Relief.  We have catalogs from different charitable organizations that you can use or you can order from the organizations’ websites.

Some of these organizations are:

• Lutheran World Relief:    http://lwrgifts.org

• Heifer Project International:   http://www.heifer.org

• Common Hope : http://commonhopecatalog.myshopify.com

• Bethania Kids:   http://bethaniakids.org/creative-giving-catalog

• Evangelical Lutheran Church in America: www.elca.org/goodgifts

(We will have ornaments during the fair trade sale that you can use to make a donation).

Youthlink Donations 

     I am again collecting donations of clothing items and toiletries for homeless teens.  The following items are most needed currently by homeless teens who are living on the street; Travel size toiletries, adult sized winter clothing, jackets, coats, men’s jeans, hand and foot warmers, and thinner gloves.

     Please leave any donations in the coat room in a bag labeled “Youthlink” by this Sunday Dec. 13.  If you have any questions, please contact Julie Manuel either by email to julie.a.manuel@gmail.com or by calling her at 612-695-6198.

– Julie Manuel

Hats, Scarves, Mittens Oh my!

     Neighborhood Ministries is collecting winter gear for children and adults.

     New or gently used items can be donated in the box near the West assembly area. There is designated space for coats in the coat rack. Items will be given away at the Community Meal through-out winter or brought to the Central Lutheran Free Store. Thank you!

Care within the community: a pastoral word  (part 3)

Sisters and brothers,

     “I know you’re busy, but . . .” I sometimes hear that from people at Mount Olive, usually by way of apologizing for “taking my time” with something of concern. I understand why people say it. People want to be supportive of me, and they recognize that a pastor’s life is often full. I’m also a person who moves quickly and can seem preoccupied because my mind is thinking of one thing while my person is doing something else. That’s something I’m working on. But we’re also conditioned not to “bother” other people with our problems. So I understand why people say it. But I really wish you wouldn’t.

     This third pastoral word regarding our care for each other as a community is about how we work together as pastor and people. And I need this to be said above all else: I am never “too busy” to have a conversation with you, or listen to your concerns or cares. It’s my job. It’s part of why you called me here. Having someone call and ask for time to talk doesn’t take time away from my work. It is my work. Or at least part of it.

     Within this congregation there is a great amount of care that happens apart from my direct involvement. Often if I or the vicar visit someone in the hospital we are not the first Mount Olive visit, and we won’t be the last. This is good, that we care for each other. The more people here reach out to each other in need, offering help, receiving help, being gracious listeners and fellow journeyers, the more this community is shaped to be Christ in this world.

     But you have called me to be your pastor, and that means you’ve also asked me to be someone who is “pastor,” someone who offers the care of Christ in a pastoral way. I share that ministry with all of you. In a more formal way, I share that pastoral care role with our vicars who serve here. But if you need to talk with me, I want you to know that is one of the graces of this ministry among you people that I love. (And remember, as I said last week, our conversations are confidential.)

     The best way to meet is to set an appointment, by phone or e-mail. Random drop-ins work, but are subject to whether I happen to have time free at that moment. I respond to e-mails within a day, and phone messages as soon as I can after I get them. I keep my own calendar, so Cha Posz isn’t able to schedule these, but I’m pretty easy to reach at the church number (612-827-5919), my e-mail (pastor@mountolivechurch.org), or my cell phone (612-280-4593). Mostly folks meet with me in my study at church, but I can go wherever it makes the most sense.

     When should we talk? Whenever you have need of spiritual conversation with your pastor. It might be a major crisis, but it doesn’t have to be one. Perhaps you’re in a time of transition spiritually or otherwise. Maybe there are things you need to sort out and a pastoral ear could help. Perhaps you just are wondering about your place in the world and what God is doing with you. Maybe you seek forgiveness from God and want to make confession. There are endless reasons you might wish to talk, so don’t discount it if you’re drawn to want a conversation.

     It is a privilege to serve you as pastor, and I thank you for your trust. Let me know if I can help walk alongside you in your journey as we all seek to be faithful to Christ and bear Christ in the world.

In the love of Christ,

– Joseph

 

Corrections Department

     The December 2, 2015, edition of The Olive Branch, in an article entitled “Yes, You Can Make a Difference!,” preliminarily reported that “around $36,000 in `over and above’ giving had been contributed to Restoration 2015,” the fund which is being used to help pay for the restoring the brickwork, roof and stained glass of our beautiful church building.

     The “about $36,000” figure was considerably off the mark! It was actually more than $42,000!  The discrepancy is the result of A.D.D. on my part (“Arithmetic Deficiency Disorder”). My apologies for misrepresenting the generosity of the wonderful people of Mount Olive.

     A principal payment of $22,985 was made in November. The balance, plus whatever gifts are received in December, will go to reduce the amount that is borrowed as well. The current loan balance is $182,012.

– Art Halbardier, Director of Property

Images of God: Thursday Bible Study  
 
     The second session of Thursday Bible Study is underway and runs through December 17.  The study, “Images of God,” is led by Vicar Anna Helgen and explores how we talk about God through the language of image and metaphor. The sessions will reflect on common images of God and participants will have the opportunity to share a creative presentation of an image of God that speaks to them.

     The sessions begin with a light supper at 6:00 p.m.

Accent on Worship
Vicar Anna Helgen 

Einstein, Spacetime, and God***
 
     Two weeks ago, we celebrated the 100th anniversary of Einstein’s theory of relativity. Without going into the nitty gritty details (because I don’t know them!), Einstein proved in this theory that space and time are not two separate entities. Instead, they’re connected and constitute one unified whole called spacetime. David Tenant, of Doctor Who, explains, “Mass causes spacetime to curve. The natural motion of things is to follow the simplest path through spacetime, but since objects with mass curve spacetime, stuff moves towards the most massive object. That’s what you feel as gravity –  it is warped space and time that’s keeping your feet on the ground.” Cool, huh? Here ends this brief physics lesson.

     During Advent, we wait in joyful expectation that God comes to us as Emmanuel. It is a
season of waiting and wonder. Einstein’s theory of relativity provided a new way of looking at the universe. In the same way, Advent is a good time to slow down and consider new ways of looking at God. What if God is like spacetime?     

     Walter Isaacson, author of Einstein: His Life and Universe, calls the theory of relativity the “most beautiful theory in the history of science.” He explains, “It is a mathematical, as well as conceptual masterpiece. It’s something that can be visua-lized as bodies telling space and time how to curve and the curving of space and time telling bodies how to move, and then the math goes with it.”        

     This is a theory of interconnectedness. Spacetime and mass depend on one another, just like we rely on God and God relies on us. It’s fun to imagine that God, like spacetime, warps, bends, and stretches to enter our lives.And thus God is with us, always, filling our bodies with God’s own space and time, and meeting us where we are.

     May this season of Advent fill you with wonder at God’s constant presence in our lives.

***I apologize for any errors regarding Einstein’s theory of relativity. I am no physicist!

Sunday Readings

December 6, 2015: Second Sunday of Advent
Malachi 3:1-4
Psalmody: Luke 1:68-79
Philippians 1:3-11
Luke 3:1-6
______________

December 13, 2015: Third Sunday of Advent
Zephaniah 3:14-20
Psalmody: Isaiah 12:2-6
Philippians 4:4-7
Luke 3:7-18

TRUST Youth: Aliveness Project
 
     Again this year, TRUST Youth will participate in the annual Holiday Baskets activity for The Aliveness Project on Sunday, December 6. 

     The youth will purchase and wrap gifts to give to families living with AIDS.  If you would like to make a cash donation to help purchase Christmas gifts for these families, please contact Julie Manuel at 612-695-6198 or via email to julie.a.manuel@gmail.com.

Get Involved in Climate Change
     Minnesota Interfaith Power and Light is one of the newly adopted mission projects for Mount Olive in 2016 as we strive to become involved in climate change advocacy and to be better stewards of our earth and its resources. MNIPL works together with people of faith to educate ourselves, change our practices to be earth friendly, and advocate in the public arena for responsible policy.
     If this is a passion of yours, the Missions Committee needs your help and ideas! Contact Judy Hinck via email to judyhinck@gmail.com.

New Members to be Welcomed This Sunday  
    
     Mount Olive will welcome new members and associate members this Sunday, December 6, during the late liturgy.

     A welcome brunch will follow the liturgy for new members and for all who would like to be part of the welcome festivities.

Sunday’s Adult Forum
December 6:  “Dietrich Bonhoeffer on Vocation,” presented by Lori Brandt Hale, Associate Professor of Religion at Augsburg College, Minneapolis.

     Dr. Hale has served as Secretary of the International Bonhoeffer Society. Her book, Bonhoeffer For Armchair Theologians, is published by Westminster John Knox Press.

Staff Christmas Gifts
     As is our tradition, this is the time of year that we gather monetary gifts for our terrific church staff. If you would like to contribute, please note “staff gifts” on your check and deposit it in the offering plate on Sunday morning or send it to the church office. Please have the gifts in by Sunday, December 20.

     Thanks for your generosity.

National Lutheran Choir Christmas
Festival Concerts: “The Spotless Rose”
Fri., December 11, 2014  (4:30 pm & 8 pm) and
Sat., December 12, 2014 (8pm)
Basilica of Saint Mary, 88 N. 17th St., Minneapolis

     Immerse yourself in the beauty and majesty of the Basilica of Saint Mary for the National Lutheran Choir’s signature Christmas Festival Concert. During this busy season of
parties, shopping and rushing around, take time to reflect upon the true meaning of Christmas through sacred song, poetry and readings.

     Tickets: $28 Adult, $25 Senior, $10 Student, age 17 and under FREE. For tickets or more information call (888) 747-4589, or visit www.nlca.com.

Images of God: Thursday Bible Study    

     The second session of Thursday Bible Study is underway and runs through December 17.  The study, “Images of God,” is led by Vicar Anna Helgen and explores how we talk about God through the language of image and metaphor. The sessions will reflect on common images of God and
participants will have the opportunity to share a creative presentation of an image of God that speaks to them.

     The sessions begin with a light supper at 6:00 p.m.

Fair Trade Sale
     The Missions Committee will host a fair trade sale again this year.  Purchase beautiful and unique fair trade items made by artisans in developing regions around the world.  These items are available from SERRV, a non-profit fair trade organization whose mission is to eradicate poverty wherever it resides by providing opportunity and support to artisans and farmers worldwide.

     The handcrafted fair trade items will be available for purchase after each liturgy on December 6, 13, and 20 (cash and check only).  See the attachment /insert to view some of the items that will be for sale and to read an artisan’s story.  Fair trade coffee, chocolate and other food products from Equal Exchange through Lutheran World Relief’s Coffee Project will also be available. 

     This is not a fund-raiser, just an opportunity to buy good products for a good cause. 

Book Discussion Group Update
     Mount Olive’s Book Discussion Group meets on the second Saturday of each month, at 10:00 am in the West Assembly Area at church. All readers are welcome!  For the December 12 meeting they will read The Turn of the Screw, by Henry James. For the January 16 meeting they will read, All the Light We Cannot See, by Anthony Doerr.

Advent Centering Prayer
     All are welcome to participate in an opportunity for contemplation during the season of Advent.
     Centering prayer will be offered on Wednesday during Advent, from 6-6:30 pm, in the north transept (near the columbarium) prior to Advent Vespers services, beginning December 2.

     New to Centering Prayer? Each session begins with a short instruction. A brief reading from the Psalms and the sound of a bell will signal the beginning of a 20-minute period of silent contemplation. The bell will then signal the end of the session which will end with the Lord’s Prayer. 

     Questions? Call Sue Ellen Zagrabelny at 612-875-7865.

News From the Neighborhood
Anna Scott, Coordinator of Neighborhood Outreach & Ministry

Our Neighborhood
Mount Olive sits on the border between two Minneapolis neighborhoods: Central and Powderhorn. The borders of Central are Lake St. to the North, 35W to the West, 38th St. to the South, and Chicago Ave. on the East. Powderhorn is also Lake St. to the North, Chicago Ave. to the West, 38th St. to the South, and suns over to Cedar Ave. to the East. This puts us in a wonderful spot to positively impact two vibrant communities. Here are a few statistics to help better understand who the people are living here.

                                Powderhorn Park               Central
Population:               8,529 people                     8,307 people
Ethnic makeup:        4% American Indian         2.2%
                                 1% Asian                           3.6%
                                 13% African American     25.1%
                                 26% Latino                       44.4%
                                52% White                         21.1%
            ** 51.2% speak another language other than English at home

Median Income:        $44,979 (42% below $35,000/y)    $47,505 (37% below $35,000 year)
Housing:                 1,686 Owners                   1,021 Owners
                                1,560 Renters                   1,201 Renters

     We are diverse, multi-generational, and urban.
     What stresses us out: Struggling urban diversity (racial tensions and competition), struggling urban life (more expensive, less safe), struggling black households (avg. income for black family went down last year)
     This is information that gives us better understanding of our neighbors and ourselves. Please pray for our neighborhood (Central and Powderhorn Park) throughout Advent as we continue to seek God’s will in the opportunities we have to be the presence of God and in the presence of God.

 
Thank you for the continuing donations of food, coats, hats, mittens and scarves. The coats will be distributed here at Mount Olive and also sent over to the Central Lutheran Church Free Store – a great place to send household items, good clothes (large men’s sizes and belts!), etc. The food and offering received at the Thanksgiving Eucharist will go to Sabathani Community Center on 38th and 4th Ave. and to Community Emergency Services (CES) on Franklin and 11th Ave.

Alternative Gift Giving
     Are you looking for something different to do this year for Christmas gifts?  Take part in a growing tradition by giving gifts that help those in need.  The Missions Committee is promoting the idea of alternative gift giving this Christmas.  For example, in honor of a loved one, you can buy playground toys for refugee children in Kenya through Lutheran World Relief.  We have catalogues from different charitable organizations that you can use or you can order from the organizations’ websites. 

Some of these organizations are:
•    Lutheran World Relief:    http://lwrgifts.org
•    Heifer Project International:   http://www.heifer.org
•    Common Hope : http://commonhopecatalog.myshopify.com
•    Bethania Kids:   http://bethaniakids.org/creative-giving-catalog
•    Evangelical Lutheran Church in America: www.elca.org/goodgifts

(We will have ornaments during the fair trade sale that you can use to make a donation).

Youthlink Donations
     I am again collecting donations of clothing items and toiletries for homeless teens.  The following items are most needed currently by homeless teens who are living on the street; Travel size toiletries, adult sized winter clothing, jackets, coats, men’s jeans, hand and foot warmers, and thinner gloves. 
     Please leave any donations in the coat room in a bag labeled “Youthlink”  by Sunday Dec. 13.  If you have any questions, please contact Julie Manuel at julie.a.manuel@gmail.com or 612-695-6198.

 Yes, You Can Make a Difference!
 
     Restoration 2015 is mostly going into hibernation, with the approach of winter. Most of the masonry and roof repair is complete. About one-third of the stained glass windows will have new protective glass.  Our beautiful church will be safe and sound for the winter. The remaining work will be completed as soon as the arrival of spring allows.

     Here’s something you need to know: In the past few months, around $36,000.00 in
“over and above” giving has been contributed toward Restoration 2015. These special gifts make a huge difference. We have budget-ed funds to cover the interest on our building loan, so special gifts like these directly reduce the amount that is borrowed.

     If year-end donations are something you are considering, think of making one toward Restoration 2015 also. Be sure to mark your envelope or check with the words “Restoration 2015.”      
     Thank you!!

Minneapolis Area Interfaith Initiative December Program
     MAII  holds monthly educational programs at the Southdale Library.  All who are interested in inter-faith dialogue and relations are welcome to attend.

     Their next program is this Sunday, December 6, at 2 pm. It will be held in the Ethel Berry Room of the Southdale Library, 7001 York Ave. S. in Edina. The program is free of charge.
This month’s program, “Interfaith Landscape in the Twin Cities,” will be presented by The Rev. Dr. Tom Duke.

     Rev. Duke is the founder of Saint Paul Interfaith Network (SPIN), former Executive Director of the Saint Paul Area Council of Churches (now Interfaith Action of Greater Saint Paul), and former pastor of Bethlehem Lutheran Church in the Midway in St. Paul.  Rev. Duke will discuss the history of interfaith relations in the Twin Cities, ways that faiths have worked together, the current situation and thoughts for the future.

     Presented by MAII (Minneapolis Area Interfaith Initiative).