Accent on Worship

This Monday I attended a conference about Church as a Community Asset, presented by the founder of Oasis in the UK, Steve Chalke. Oasis flows around a Christ -centered ethos of holistic, inclusive, community transformation. They started by looking out-side the doors of an enormously empty London church and not just wishing for better, but dreaming about what it could, should, be and then they went about creating just that. This was a valuable piece to the question we are constantly asking ourselves at Mount Olive. What is our neighborhood? Well, maybe one way to begin answering would be to ask “what do we want our neighborhood to be?” then go about making it so.

     Along the day we discussed the definitions of church; church as a religious service provider, a community space provider, a social service provider, then church AS the community. These were revealing in what many in the room were struggling through. How can you move the church from one of the provider categories in to the realm of full, whole, collective community? This is the “in the presence, being the presence” question.

     This conference was full of quotable wisdoms, big dreams, and inspiring possibilities, but no magic answers, because there is no short-cut way to building community and provoking real change. It comes from the roots of our spiritual questions, “who am I,” and “where am I going?” and answering in faith that “I am a beloved child of God and my life has purpose and meaning.”  It means staring at Jesus’s full command, not just the Mark 12 or Matthew 22 versions, but the Leviticus 19:18 “‘Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge against anyone among your people, but love your neighbor as yourself. I am the LORD.” It means letting go of hurts and fears. It means showing up, serving one another, and living in to the world that God desires for us.

     There is much more I wish I could share. There is much more that I need to learn and talk through and discover. We all do. So let’s keep talking and dreaming and working towards the world that has Christ at the very center whether in a coffee shop, a school, a public restroom, or face-to-face with one another.

– Anna Kingman

Sunday Readings

May 3, 2015: Fifth Sunday of Easter
Acts 8:26-40
Psalm 22:25-31
I John 4:7-21
John 15:1-8

May 10, 2015: Sixth Sunday of Easter
Acts 10:44-48
Psalm 98
I John 5:1-6
John 15:9-17

Sunday’s Adult Forum: May 3, 9:30 am

 “Wisdom From the Desert: Stories from Women in the Early Church,” part 2 of a 2-part series presented by Prof. Sr. Mary Foreman, Assoc. Professor of Theology, St. Benedict University, St. Joseph, MN, and author of Praying With the Desert Mothers.

Transitions Support Group

     All are welcome to visit the Transitions Support Group meetings if you’ve been hoping to find new ideas or encouragement to meet the challenges or uncertainties that are before you. This is an opportunity to share in fellowship, prayer, and discussion with others in the Mount Olive community.
     The next session meets on Wednesday, May 6, from 6- 7 pm at Mount Olive in the lower level Youth Room, and will be facilitated by Amy Cotter and Cathy Bosworth.    
     If you have questions, please contact Cathy at 612-708-1144 or marcat8447@yahoo.com.

Encounters with Jesus: Bible Study on Thursday Evenings  

     The spring Bible study series continues this Thursday, April 30, in the Chapel Lounge from 6:00-7:30pm. The fifth and final session on May 14 will conclude with Eucharist for the Feast of the Ascension. RSVPs to (vicar@mountolivechurch.org) not required, but appreciated for meal planning.
     Vicar McLaughlin is leading a study focusing on five stories of encounters with Jesus from the New Testament. In addition to discussing the context and background, we are using the Ignatian meditation form Praying with Imagination as a way of entering into the stories.
     As usual, there will be a light supper when we begin.

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 May 9 meeting, the Book Discussion group will read, The Boat of Longing, by O. E. Rølvaag. For June 13, The Last Chinese Chef, by Nicole Mones, and for July 11, Bleak House, by Charles Dickens.

Calling All Graduates!

     On Sunday, June 14, we will honor our graduates at a reception following the 9:30 a.m. liturgy.
     If you are graduating from high school, college, seminary, or another post-secondary school, or if you know of some-one else from Mount Olive who is graduating this spring, please take a moment to notify the church office. We want to be sure that all of our graduates are invited!

The Ascension of Our Lord
Thursday, May 14
Holy Eucharist at 7:00 pm

Heads Up!

Summer worship schedule begins Memorial Day weekend, Sunday, May 24 (The Day of Pentecost). From Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend,     we celebrate one Eucharist each Sunday at 9:30 a.m.

Race Day is Saturday!

     This Saturday is the day that Anna Dundek and Eric Bell  will compete in the Amazing gRace. They will race between Lutheran Volunteer Corps service sites, performing all sorts of amazing feats that support the peace and justice work of LVC. Mount Olive Global Missions supports Anna and Eric, and we hope that you will too!

     Financially, you can support Anna, Eric, and the LVC work by donating at their web site:
https://www.firstgiving.com/team/293972  or by placing your contribution in a blue mission envelope and writing in “Amazing gRace.”

     All are invited to the end-of-race potluck Saturday from 4-6 pm at St. Paul-Reformation Lutheran Church (100 North Oxford Street in St. Paul). Bring a dish to share and cheer for Anna and Eric as they arrive.

     Lutheran Volunteer Corps does amazing work in promoting peace and justice while helping to form and sup-port young Christians as they explore their role in being God’s presence in the world. We have Lutheran Volunteer Corps graduates who have been part of our Mount Olive community, and we are committed to supporting the good work that they do.  Join this Amazing gRace event.

Congregation Meeting Recap

     Attached to this issue of The Olive Branch is an annual report prepared by several members of the Vestry, which describes the activities of their respective committees during the past year. (For those who receive hard copy newsletters, copies of the report are available at church in the office and the narthex).

     At the April 26 Semi-Annual meeting of the congregation, the following Vestry officers and directors were elected:

• President, Lora Dundek
• Vice President, Tom Graves
• Secretary, Peggy Hoeft
• Treasurer, Tim Lindholm
• Amy Thompson, Education Director
• Art Halbardier, Property Director
• Steve Manuel, Education Director

      Thanks to the outgoing officers and directors of the Vestry, Robert Gotwalt, Kat Campbell-Johnson, John Holtmeier, and Brenda Bartz.  They have served us all very well.

     Other actions taken at the meeting:
• Presentation of nearly $35,000 from the Mount Olive Foundation to the congregation to be used for various projects, and an update of the status of the Foundation’s funds;
• A review of the current budget status and encouragement for all to prayerfully consider their giving to the church.

Minnesota Brain Tumor 5K

     Inspired by Gene Hennig, the “Lean Mean Gene Machines” are raising research funds with the MN Brain Tumor 5K event on Sunday, May 17, 2015, at Lake Phalen in St. Paul.

     We have set a goal of $5000. One hundred percent of tax-deductible donations support the Musella Foundation for Brain Tumor Research and Information, Inc., a 501(c)3 non-profit public charity. Please visit our team fundraising page here: http://bit.ly/1OYNUAA.

     All are invited to join us for the non-competitive, fun run/walk! Families and dogs are welcome, provided that their caretakers assume responsibility. We are working on some fun “extras” as a part of the event, too. Feel free to contact Emily Hennig at emilyhennig@gmail.com, or Kate Teece  at k8teece@gmail.com with any questions. We hope you will join us!

– The Hennig family

News From the Neighborhood                          

Ask me about “Open Space!”

     As a way to live into our new vision expression, this summer we will open up our parking lot space to build community and see what can happen!  The question was: “What is an asset outside the walls of our building that we at Mount Olive can make better use of?”  Someone came up with the thought of the parking lot!

     A six month task force was created and goals established: to offer our parking lot space to create connection, be the presence of God, to partner with our neighbors, and to break the barrier of “us” and “them.” We hope to have a little fun and celebration while we connect hearts and build community.  We are calling this project “Open Space.”

     In addition to communicating with you, we want to talk with our neighbors.  So we are scheduling dates to meet with folks from the churches within a few blocks of Mount Olive to see if we can partner with them in this “Open Space” project. In our first phone call to a neighboring church, the staff person told us they had actually been looking for a parking lot option to host a large event. It’s already creating connections!

     The task force has come up with a few ideas to share with the congregation for some first steps. Here are a couple of them:

1. Outdoor Community Garage Sale & Local Art Sale: June 20, 9am – 2pm in our “Open Space.” Neighbors, friends, and local artists can have a parking space plot, bring their own table, and set up their goods to sell to the public. We will go door to door to invite neighborhood residents to reserve a spot or come to the sale, and ask churches, coffee shops and businesses to help publicize the event. Mount Olive will publicize and host, opening our doors to offer a glimpse of who we are inside and out.

     We will need members to post flyers around the neighborhood, assist with hospitality that day, and put up direction signs that morning.  Because we are hosting the community meal that noon hour, around 100 friends and neighbors will be dining with us already, and perhaps they will be customers at the sale. (In case of rain the event is canceled).

2. Later in summer, we have registered our “Open Space” to be a site for National Night Out on August 4, from 6 – 8pm.  The city of Minneapolis will list us as one of the neighborhood locations.  We will invite the neighbors to bring a lawn chair and some appetizers or a dessert to share.  There will be activities for the kids and we have invited the fire and police departments to bring a truck or squad car to the event.

     What else could take place in our under-used parking lot?  Do you have ideas?  Can you join in any of this summer’s activities?   Contact any of us with your ideas.  Let’s see what we can do to take an empty parking lot and make God’s creative, abundant presence be seen in this place.

Taskforce members:  George Ferguson, Patsy Holtmeier, Julie Manuel, Tim Pipkorn, Carol Austermann, Paul Nixdorf, Connie Marty & Anna Kingman.

Hospitality Help Wanted!

     Could you help with a behind-the-scenes hospitality task?  We are in need of two or three persons who would be willing and able to launder table linens after they are used at funeral receptions or congregation events such as the Easter Vigil.  

     Please call the church office at 612-837-5919 to volunteer or talk with Gail Neilsen, Carla Manuel, or Andrew Andersen.

May Day Parade to be Held This Sunday, May 3, Noon

     The May Day Parade and Festival has become a joyous annual rite of spring. More than 2,000 participants, along with amazing puppets and floats, parade down Bloomington Avenue telling a story and creating a moving theatrical performance. Thousands more line the streets to watch the parade and participate in day-long activities. Following the parade, a pageant and tree of life ceremony in Powderhorn Park ushers in the renewal of a new spring season. For more information or to get involved check the HOBT website: http://hobt.org/mayday/

   (Find the Mount Olive crew to watch the parade at the corner of Bloomington Ave. & 28th St. at Noon!)

Attention Mount Olive Worship Assistants!

  The Servant Schedule for the 3rd quarter of 2015  (July-September) will be published at the beginning of June, 2015.   The deadline for submitting requests to me is May 10, 2015.  Please email your requests to peggyrf70@gmail.com.

Unwrapping Your Spiritual Gifts

Saturday, May 23   9 a.m.–noon
Mount Olive Lutheran Church

 Explore your spiritual gifts—and how and where you are called to use them. We all have spiritual gifts, but do we need some new paradigms for discovering and using them? Live into Mount Olive’s vision: Being the Presence of God.

Workshop Leaders: Connie Marty and Vicar Meagan McLaughlin

Before the workshop, take an online gifts inventory at
www.elca.org/Our-Work/Congregations-and-Synods/Faith-Practices/Assessment-Tools

RSVP Required: Vicar McLaughlin at 612.827.5919 or vicar@mountolivechurch.org

Guatemala Vision Team to Meet This Sunday

     Are you interested in going to Guatemala with a group from Mount Olive this summer? An informational meeting is planned for this Sunday, May 3, at 9:30 am in the Undercroft. If you have already signed up to go, or if you just want to learn more about it, plan to come to this meeting!

Mount Olive Foundation Presents Annual Gift

     This past Sunday, President Keith Bartz of Mount Olive Lutheran Church Foundation presented a check for $34,894.00–its annual gift to the congregation.  For the fifth consecutive year, this sum represents the largest gift that the Foundation has given to the Church.  Over its history, the Foundation now has given almost $350,000 to the Church.

     Subject to the Vestry’s approval, the Foundation’s Board of Directors recommended that these funds be apportioned as follows:

• Neighborhood Ministries Kiosk and Display Case    3,000.00
• Bach Tage $  4,000.00
• Guatemala Partnership Trip $  4,000.00
• New Staff Member Accounting Role $  3,000.00
• Purchase new stove/oven for galley (upstairs) kitchen $ 800.00
• Design for Undercroft Refurbishment $  4,000.00
• General Improvements to Building Exterior $16,094.00

TOTAL $34,894.00

     To learn more about the Mount Olive Foundation and how you can build its endowment and annual giving, please contact Keith Bartz at (612) 823-3572 or albsinmpls@yahoo.com, or speak with other Foundation board members:  Michael Edwins, Victor Gebauer, Reid Peterson, Mark Ruff, or Pat and Doug Spaulding.

Accent on Worship

Last week, I realized I have only four months left with you before internship ends. I think about when I started, excited but unsure what to expect. I think about my first Accent article, highlighting the many ways I had witnessed you loving each other, loving me.

     Over these eight months, I have only added to that list. 1 John says, “Little children, let us love, not in word or speech, but in truth and action,” and I see this invitation lived out by all of you. I see “love in truth and action” as you strive to build community with our neighbors. I see love in the deep relationships between members who share rides to church each week. Love abounds as you welcome and create space for those new to Mount Olive, visitors, clergy, and staff alike. That love is evident as you offer practical help and hope to those  experiencing illness and loss.

     As we live into our Vision Expression, “In the presence of God, Being the presence of God,” we grow in our ability to embody God’s love in the world. And we come face to face with how diffi-cult it can be. Over coffee on Sun-day, one of you asked how to respond in love to the pain of friends who have lost their home, loved ones, everything, to the devastation of civil war, when the only thing that feels loving to them is violent revenge. Several of us wrestled with this, and found more questions than answers. How do you love one who has been hurt so badly? How do you love one who has hurt you? How would you respond?

     I am fortunate to be with you this year, to learn and wrestle and grow and love together. I am grateful for the time we have had, and grateful that my time is not up, yet. Thank you for teaching me about love in truth and action. Thank you for being who you are!

– Vicar Meagan McLaughlin

Sunday Readings

April 26, 2015: Fourth Sunday of Easter
Acts 4:5-12
Psalm 23
I John 3:16-24
John 10:11-18

May 3, 2015: Fifth Sunday of Easter
 Acts 8:26-40
Psalm 22:25-31
I John 4:7-21
John 15:1-8

Sunday’s Adult Forum: April 26, 9:30 am

 “Wisdom From the Desert: Stories from Women in the Early Church,” part 1 of a 2-part series presented by Prof. Sr. Mary Foreman, Assoc. Professor of Theology, St. Benedict University, St. Joseph, MN, and author of Praying With the Desert Mothers.

Semi-Annual Congregation Meeting to be Held This Sunday, April 26

     The Semi-annual Congregational meeting of Mount Olive congregation will be held after second liturgy this Sunday, April 26.

     On the agenda is the election of Vestry Officers. The slate of candidates recommended by the Vestry for election are:

• President, Lora Dundek (1-year term)
• Secretary, Peggy Hoeft (1-year term)
• Vice President, Tom Graves (1-year term)
• Treasurer, Tim Lindholm (1-year term)
• Education Director, Steve Manuel (3-year term)
• Property Director, Art Halbardier (3-year term)
• Youth Director, Amy Thompson (3-year term)

Nominations for the Vestry may also be offered from the floor.

Other items of business are:
• Ministry Fair/Update on Vision process
• Mount Olive Foundation Presentation

All voting members of Mount Olive are encouraged to attend.

Encounters with Jesus: Bible Study on Thursday Evenings  

     The second Thursday Bible study series of this year began last Thursday, April 16, and runs for five weeks in the Chapel Lounge from 6:00-7:30 pm. The final session will end with the Holy Eucharist for the Feast of the Ascension on May 14.

     Vicar McLaughlin will lead a study focusing on five stories of encounters with Jesus from the New Testament. In addition to discussing the context and background, we will use the Ignatian meditation form, Praying with Imagination, as a way of entering into the stories.

     As usual, there will be a light supper when we begin. All are welcome to this study opportunity!

The Ascension of Our Lord
Thursday, May 14
Holy Eucharist at 7:00 pm

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 May 9 meeting, the Book Discussion group will read, The Boat of Longing, by O. E. Rølvaag. For June 13, The Last Chinese Chef, by Nicole Mones, and for July 11, Bleak House, by Charles Dickens.

Calling All Graduates!

     On Sunday, June 14, we will honor our graduates at a reception following the 9:30 a.m. liturgy.

     If you are graduating from high school, college, seminary, or another post-secondary school, or if you know of some-one else from Mount Olive who is graduating this spring, please take a moment to notify the church office. We want to be sure that all of our graduates are invited!

Amazing gRace Link Correction–Get Involved!

     Apologies for last week’s link troubles. Try this: https://www.firstgiving.com/team/293972.

     Whether you donate through Mount Olive or directly to team member Anna, 100% of your support will go to LVC. Anna Dundek and Eric Bell are getting ready to race around the Twin Cities on May 2 as they visit Lutheran Volunteer Corps placement sites to learn about LVC and promote the work of LVC members for peace with justice across our area.

     Check out the display case to see Anna and Eric and the places their gRace will take them.

     When Anna and Eric win (!?!) they will have the opportunity to direct donations to a particular LVC placement site. What would you like to see the money support? Leave them a message on their donation site about your favorite LVC “peace with justice” work.

Transitions Support Group
     All are welcome to visit the Transitions Support Group meetings if you’ve been hoping to find new ideas or encouragement to meet the challenges or uncertainties that are before you. This is an opportunity to share in fellowship, prayer, and discussion with others in the Mount Olive community.
     The next session meets on Wednesday, May 6, from 6- 7 pm at Mount Olive in the lower level Youth Room, and will be facilitated by Amy Cotter and Cathy Bosworth.    
     If you have questions, please contact Cathy at 612-708-1144 or marcat8447@yahoo.com.

New Members to be Received May 17

     New members will be received on May 17, 2015, at the second liturgy.  A welcome brunch will follow the liturgy in the Undercroft.

     Please contact Andrew Andersen at 763-607-1689, or call the church office at 612-837-5910, if you are interested in becoming a member at Mount Olive.

The brunch is open to all Mount Olive folk as well as families and friends. Plan to come to meet our newest members and welcome them!

Hospitality Help Wanted!

     Could you help with a behind-the-scenes hospitality task?  We are in need of two or three persons who would be willing and able to launder table linens after they are used at funeral receptions or congregation events such as the Easter Vigil.  

     Please call the church office at 612-837-5919 to volunteer or talk with Gail Neilsen, Carla Manuel, or Andrew Andersen.

Mark Your Calendars for the May Day Parade, Sunday, May 3, Noon

     The May Day Parade and Festival has become a joyous annual rite of spring. More than 2,000 participants, along with amazing puppets and floats, parade down Bloomington Avenue telling a story and creating a moving theatrical performance. Thousands more line the streets to watch the parade and participate in day-long activities. Following the parade, a pageant and tree of life ceremony in Powderhorn Park ushers in the renewal of a new spring season. For more information or to get involved check the HOBT website: http://hobt.org/mayday/

   (Find the Mount Olive crew to watch the parade at the corner of Bloomington Ave. & 28th St. at Noon!)

Minnesota Brain Tumor 5K

     Inspired by Gene Hennig, the “Lean Mean Gene Machines” are raising research funds with the MN Brain Tumor 5K event on Sunday, May 17, 2015, at Lake Phalen in St. Paul.

     We have set a goal of $5000. One hundred percent of tax-deductible donations support the Musella Foundation for Brain Tumor Research and Information, Inc., a 501(c)3 non-profit public charity. Please visit our team fundraising page here: http://bit.ly/1OYNUAA.

     All are invited to join us for the non-competitive, fun run/walk! Families and dogs are welcome, provided that their caretakers assume responsibility. We are working on some fun “extras” as a part of the event, too. Feel free to contact Emily Hennig at emilyhennig@gmail.com, or Kate Teece  at k8teece@gmail.com with any questions. We hope you will join us!

– The Hennig family

Sign Up, Sign Up for Coffee!

     Take a turn and sign up to serve Sunday coffee. There are plenty of openings on the chart, so find a day that works for you and sign up!

News From the Neighborhood
Anna Kingman

     In an effort to share about the relationships being built through our interaction in the neighborhood, we will hear from the people who find support, relief, and help through Mount Olive.

Profiles: Exodus Lending
It’s one of the things you may never have to think about, but for many people it’s the only thing on their mind – Payday loans. April has been a momentous month on the front of battling ‘predatory lending’ and efforts to confront this immoral, but not illegal practice. With the work of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, JRLC, and many others, Exodus Lending was launched as an alternative and a relief for those trapped in these loans that exist to take advantage of them. Although the bill in the legislature was not brought up in this session, there is still much progress being made, but much much more to do.

An excerpt from a Southside Pride article by Ashley Pederson.
“On April 1, 2015, the nonprofit Exodus Lending opened for business. Exodus Lending refinances payday loans, and then offers financial counseling and a savings program. Four clients were enrolled in the program on the first day. Director Adam Rao said that, “In our first week of operations, we refinanced over $2,800 in payday debt, saving those clients nearly $12,800 over the next year in finance charges and fees.” Exodus Lending is the first of its kind in Minnesota. It is funded by individual donations and grants.

     If you want to enroll or donate, you can find more information at exoduslending.org or 612-615-0067.

In Need of a Few Extra Helping Hands!

     Mount Olive will host dinner at Our Saviour’s Housing on Sunday, May 10, and a few more helpers are needed to host a lovely evening meal on this day, beginning at 6:45 pm.

     If you are able and willing, please contact Lora Dundek at lhdundek@usfamily.net

Opportunities to BE Involved

     Take part in the Congregation Meeting and Ministry Fair this Sunday, April 26, after the second liturgy. There will be a variety of ways to use your gifts and talents to share with your church and community.

     Thank you for all that you do, and please consider where your energies may be well used!

Spanish phrase:

      Part of sharing in community is understanding one another through language, culture, or experience. As we explore our community and get to know our neighbors, let’s continue  with some helpful language lessons.

English: “Where is your family from?”
Spanish: ”De donde es su familia?” (Day-dohn-day es sue fah-meel-ee-ah)

Review: “How can I help you?’”
Spanish: “Como le puedo ayudar?” (Coh-mo lay pooh-ay-doh eye-u-dar)

     Go out and be fearlessly friendly folks!

National Lutheran Choir to Present Gretchaninoff’s Passion Week

     The National Lutheran Choir brings Alexander Gretchaninoff’s glorious Passion Week to the majestic Basilica of Saint Mary in Minneapolis and Zumbro Lutheran Church in Rochester.

Thursday, April 30, 2015 – 8pm
Basilica of Saint Mary (88 N 17th St., Minneapolis, MN 55403)

Saturday, May 2, 2015 – 7pm
Zumbro Lutheran Church (624 3rd Ave. SW, Rochester, MN 55902)

Tickets: $25 Adult – $23 Senior – $10 Students aged 17 and under FREE. For tickets or more information, call (888) 747-4589 or visit www.nlca.com

Twin Cities AGO May Members Concert
Friday, May 1, 2015, 7:30 pm
St. Michael’s Lutheran Church
9201 Normandale Boulevard
Bloomington, MN 55437

     The Twin Cities American Guild of Organists presents its 2015 TCAGO Members Concert. Resident Musician Jane Horn has invited us to visit St. Michael’s Lutheran Church in Bloomington and share the sounds of the splendid 48-rank Reuter organ.

     Performers in this concert will be: Jennifer Anderson, Matt Bacon, Kim Crisler, Chris Ganza, Stephen Hamilton, Samuel Holmberg, and Jane Horn.

     They will play works of Widor, Dupré, Howells, Paulus, Chilcott, Ives, Pardini, Friedell, Bach, Kendrick, Drischner, Vaubourgoin, and Messiaen.

     This concert is free and open to the public. A reception follows the concert.

Accent on Worship  

     Easter is not just a Spring Fling. There are seven Sundays in Easter—seven opportunities to unpack the Resurrection, fathom its depths, and ask what it means, both for our lives and for the life of the world.

     The gospels use different forms for “talking Resurrection.”  The simplest form is the story of the empty tomb. “He is not here; he is risen.”  Of course, the “risen” part is an interpretation, since there are other ways for a tomb to empty.

     The most common way to talk Resurrection is to say that the dead man appeared; but Hellenistic texts are full of stories about gods dying and rising, appearing and disappearing, even impregnating women in their sleep.

     So, how do our Lord’s appearances differ?  At first he comes and goes, through doors. He is un-recognizable and can be interpreted as a ghost. But this is balanced by his demonstration of his body, particularly his scars.  That is what establishes continuity with the Jesus of Galilee. Then they know it is the Lord.  Then they know it is their friend.

     The gospels want to present us with more than a ghostly Jesus.  This Jesus has triumphed over death and has restored our relationship with God.  It is not just our being that matters, but our being in relationship, in family, in community with God and neighbor.  We are not desperate souls, searching for a way out of a body doomed to die.  We are children of God, born anew through Baptism into the death and resurrection of Christ.  That life cannot wither because it has been made secure from God’s side.  

     So we are enabled to turn all our beloved dead over to God, all the loving relationships that we have treasured, all the special bonds we have known, believing that God will keep it for eternity.
 
– Interim Pastor Robert A. Hausman 

Sunday Readings

April 19, 2015: Third Sunday of Easter
Acts 3:12-19
Psalm 4
I John 3:1-7
Luke 24:36b-48

April 26, 2015: Fourth Sunday of Easter
Acts 4:5-12
Psalm 23
I John 3:16-24
John 10:11-18

Sunday’s Adult Forum : April 19, 9:30 am

 “Exploring Spiritual Gifts,” presented by Vicar Meagan McLaughlin. What gifts has God given you to share with the world?

Semi-Annual Congregation Meeting to be Held April 26

     The Semi-annual Congregational meeting of Mount Olive congregation will be held after second liturgy on Sunday, April 26.

     On the agenda is the election of Vestry Officers. The slate of candidates recommended by the Vestry for election are:

• President, Lora Dundek (1-year term)
• Secretary, Peggy Hoeft (1-year term)
• Vice President, Tom Graves (1-year term)
• Treasurer, Tim Lindholm (1-year term)
• Education Director, Steve Manuel (3-year term)
• Property Director, Art Halbardier (3-year term)
• Youth Director, Amy Thompson (3-year term)

Nominations for the Vestry may also be offered from the floor.

Other items of business are:
• Ministry Fair/Update on Vision process
• Mount Olive Foundation Presentation

All voting members of Mount Olive are encouraged to attend.

Encounters with Jesus: Bible Study on Thursday Evenings Starts Tomorrow!

     The second Thursday Bible study series of this year begins on Thursday, April 16, and runs for five weeks in the Chapel Lounge from 6:00-7:30 pm. The final session will end with the Holy Eucharist for the Feast of the Ascension on May 14.

     Vicar McLaughlin will lead a study focusing on five stories of encounters with Jesus from the New Testament. In addition to discussing the context and background, we will use the Ignatian meditation form, Praying with Imagination, as a way of entering into the stories.

     As usual, there will be a light supper when we begin. (The first meal is covered, and a sign-up sheet will passed around for the remaining weeks.)

     All are welcome to this study opportunity!

For Your Information 

• Continue the Conversation (about end of life decision making) workshop is scheduled for this Saturday, April 18, 10 am – noon at Mount Olive.  You can register at the table in the reception area.  You will see “sticky notes” with questions on the poster. If one or more states a question or concern you have, attach it to a 3 x 5 card along with your name for your registration for the event and put it in the bowl. Your family/friends are welcome; we just need to know how many people to plan for.

• Can you Help?  As noted previously in The Olive Branch, your Congregational Care Committee continues to “grow” this list.  If you would like to be included, your name can be added now.  Those of you who have signed on have not been forgotten.  This is a developing program; more to come!  

Book Discussion Group Update

     For the May 9 meeting, the Book Discussion group will read, The Boat of Longing, by O. E. Rølvaag. For June 13, The Last Chinese Chef, by Nicole Mones, and for July 11, Bleak House, by Charles Dickens.

Support Our Amazing gRace Team!

     This week a new Amazing Race starts on TV and goes for weeks and weeks. Our Amazing gRace is a one day event on Saturday, May 2, and YOU can support and celebrate our Mount Olive team.
     Here are three ways to get involved:

1) Visit the team website and donate to the race:  https://www.firstgiving.com/team/293972
      All of the money will go to Lutheran Volunteer Corps sites–and when they win, Anna and Eric get to choose the site!

2) Be a Race Day Volunteer. The race runs all day, so you could help out for all or just part of the day. You could help get the race started, judge a station, get lunch for the teams, or help get ready for the big end of the race celebration.  Email today to sign up: judyhinck@gmail.com.

3) Come to the end of the race celebration! Everyone is invited to cheer our team’s success. The celebration potluck is from 4-6 pm on May 2, at St. Paul-Reformation Lutheran Church (100 North Oxford Street in St. Paul). Let’s have a crowd to celebrate with Anna and Eric.

      Need more information? See a Global Mission Committee member or send an email to Judy Hinck, judyhinck@gmail.com
   

Benefit for Our Saviour’s Community Services

     Caritas Vocal Ensemble will present a concert on behalf of Our Saviour’s Community Services on Sunday, April 19, at 3 pm, at Lake of the Isles Lutheran Church, 2020 W. Lake of the Isles Pkwy. in Minneapolis. Admission is free, though donations are gratefully accepted to support the work of OSCS—ending homelessness and educating immigrants. Please come and bring your friends!

Capture Minnesota

     Local photographer, Bill Donovan, shot three great photos in Mount Olive’s nave last week and entered them in the “Capture Minnesota” Photo a Day contest.  All three of his photos were in the top 10 last week (out of about 500).  Please click this link to the Capture Minnesota site to see Bill’s beautiful work. http://www.captureminnesota.com/photos/upcoming?page=1

Minnesota Brain Tumor 5K

     Inspired by Gene Hennig, the “Lean Mean Gene Machines” are raising research funds with the MN Brain Tumor 5K event on Sun May 17, 2015 at Lake Phalen in St. Paul.

     We have set a goal of $5000. One hundred percent of tax-deductible donations support the Musella Foundation for Brain Tumor Research and Information, Inc., a 501(c)3 non-profit public charity. Please visit our team fundraising page here: http://bit.ly/1OYNUAA.

     All are invited to join us for the non-competitive, fun run/walk! Families and dogs are welcome, provided that their caretakers assume responsibility. We are working on some fun “extras” as a part of the event, too. Feel free to contact Emily Hennig  at emilyhennig@gmail.com, or Kate Teece  at k8teece@gmail.com with any questions. We hope you will join us!

– The Hennig family

Sign Up, Sign Up for Coffee!

     Take a turn and sign up to serve Sunday coffee. There are plenty of openings on the chart, so find a day that works for you and sign up!

Calling All Graduates!

     If you are graduating from high school, college, seminary, or some other post-secondary school, or if you know of someone else from Mount Olive who is graduating this spring, please take a moment to notify the church office. We want to have all of our graduates invited and included in our graduation recognition this spring.

News From the Neighborhood
Anna Kingman

     In an effort to share about the relationships being built through our interaction in the neighborhood, we will hear from the people who find support, relief, and help through Mount Olive.

Profiles: YOUR Neighborhood

     Sunshine makes us Minnesotans a funky type of ambitious. The warmth on our faces heats up our brain waves and we start planting endless gardens, going for innumerable bike rides, and stocking up weekend lake supplies. The real beauty of sunshine is that we SEE each other more (without our chins buried in our coats and eyes hidden from sideways snow gusts). We get out, walk, play, explore and much more.

     This is all important in connecting more as well. In what ways are you interacting with your own neighborhood? How are you appreciating and participating in the life and function of the goodness going on right around you wherever you are? Are you being a good role model? This is just a reminder to be the change, be the one who smiles first, opens the door, picks up the extra trash, lets the driver in front, etc.  As we’re inspired by the arrival of Spring, lets inspire others by our kindness and thoughtfulness in all places (yes, even in our cars where we think no one can hear us : )

Mark Your Calendars for the May Day Parade, Sunday, May 3, Noon

   (Mount Olive friends who would like to march in the parade should meet at the corner of Bloomington Ave. & 28th St. at Noon!)

     The May Day Parade and Festival has become a joyous annual rite of spring. More than 2,000 participants, along with amazing puppets and floats, parade down Bloomington Avenue telling a story and creating a moving theatrical performance. Thousands more line the streets to watch the parade and participate in day-long activities. Following the parade, a pageant and tree of life ceremony in Powderhorn Park ushers in the renewal of a new spring season. For more information or to get involved check the HOBT website: http://hobt.org/mayday/

Opportunities to BE Involved: Summer Acts

     Summer ACTS is coming up!

     This program will take place for 4 weeks, June 22–July 16, from 10:00 am-2:00 pm Monday–Thursday. Kids aged 9-14 will learn about service and responsibility by holding a summer job while participating in fun, meaningful projects. We will need mentors to work and play alongside them.    

     Please start to consider if this is an option for you and your family to be involved for two days during one or all of the weeks! Do you have children, neighbors, or grandkids that you think would like to participate? Keep them in mind and watch for an upcoming invitation. More info and sign-ups to come. Questions? Ask Anna at Neighborhood@mountolivechurch.org

Can You Help a Neighbor in Need?

     The Community University Healthcare Center is looking for someone to help a single, disabled woman clean and organize her home near Lake Nokomis. Commitment could be spread out between 2-3 hours over 2-3 days. If you might be interested, please call or contact Anna, 612-827-5919,   Neighborhood@mountolivechurch.org

National Lutheran Choir to Presents Gretchaninoff’s Passion Week

     The National Lutheran Choir brings Alexander Gretchaninoff’s glorious Passion Week to the majestic Basilica of Saint Mary in Minneapolis and Zumbro Lutheran Church in Rochester.

Thursday, April 30, 2015 – 8pm
Basilica of Saint Mary (88 N 17th St., Minneapolis, MN 55403)

Saturday, May 2, 2015 – 7pm
Zumbro Lutheran Church (624 3rd Ave. SW, Rochester, MN 55902)

Tickets: $25 Adult – $23 Senior – $10 Students aged 17 and under FREE. For tickets or more information, call (888) 747-4589 or visit www.nlca.com

Transitions Support Group

     All are welcome to visit the Transitions Support Group meetings if you’ve been hoping to find new ideas or encouragement to meet the challenges or uncertainties that are before you. This is an opportunity to share in fellowship, prayer, and discussion with others in the Mount Olive community.
     The next session meets on Wednesday, April 15 (this evening!), from 6:00 – 7:00 pm at Mount Olive in the lower level Youth Room, and will be facilitated by Amy Cotter and Cathy Bosworth.    
     If you have questions, please contact Cathy at 612-708-1144 or marcat8447@yahoo.com.

Faith and Creation

     Join Luther Seminary for the 2015 Rutlen Lecture, a bi-annual lecture series focused on faith and creation. This year’s lecture, “Creation, Sin and Sacrament in the Anthropocene,” will be given by Larry Rasmussen, Reinhold Niebuhr Professor Emeritus of Social Ethics at Union Seminary.

     The planet faces massive changes brought on by human beings. These likely include a new geological epoch, the “Anthropocene,” that challenges long-established ways of life. The base points of Christian faith are challeng-ed as well, from first things to last. This Rutlen Lecture probes the meaning of creation, sin and sacrament for a new epoch.

     Congregation leaders are invited to “Integrating Green in Congregations” at 3:30 p.m. on Tuesday, April 21. A $10 buffet dinner will be available prior to the lecture at 7 p.m. that evening. After the lecture, Rasmussen will hold a book signing for “Earth-honoring Faith: Religious Ethics in a New Key.” He will also preach in chapel on April 22 at 11 a.m. All events take place in the Olson Campus Center at Luther Seminary.

     To find out more about Luther’s lecture series and to RSVP for the dinner, please visit: www.luthersem.edu/lectures/faithandcreation.

Easter Weekend Videos on YouTube

     Thanks to Paul Nixdorf, who captured a couple of brief but wonderful moments at the Easter liturgies.  Click the links below to see them.

Easter Vigil: http://youtu.be/qVYJktNXBv0
Easter Gospel Procession:  http://youtu.be/tNLS36bCLiY

What do you like to do?

Write?
Cook?
Entertain?
Have fun?
Learn?
Socialize?
Talk about your faith?
Design things?
Hammer and saw?
Paint?
Sing?
Teach?
Spend time with kids?
Decorate?
Make things spotless?

What are your passions?

Service to the poor?
Equality and Justice?
Hospitality?
Learning?
Bible and Text Study?
Literature?
Music?
Worship?
Serving people inter-nationally?
Protecting the Environment?
Praying for others?
Web and Social networking?
Political advocacy?
Women’s issues?

We have an “Opp”(ortunity) for that!
Mount Olive Ministry Fair-April 26!

Accent on Worship  

ELCA Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton’s 2015 Easter Message

     The gospel of Mark ends abruptly. The women came to the tomb to care for the body of their friend and Lord. They expected death. Seeing the stone rolled away, they entered the tomb – they entered into death. They didn’t find Jesus. Instead, they saw a young man who told them not to be amazed, that Jesus had risen. This same stranger told them to tell the disciples and then head to Galilee.

     Is it any wonder that terror and amazement seized them?

We are on the other side of the first Easter. We have grown used to the story of the resurrection. The Good News brings hope and comfort. It brings freedom and joy. But I don’t think it causes terror and amazement. Maybe we are missing something.          

     The Greek word for amazement, “ekstasis,” literally means, “change of place.” And that is what has happened to us and to all of creation because of the resurrection.

     Before Easter, we stood in a place of sin and death. After Easter, we stand in a place of forgiveness and life. Everything is changed. We are not the same. The world is not the same. The deadly, but familiar way of the world can no longer be counted on.

     This new reality of forgiveness, life, and salvation is and should be unsettling.  Terror and amazement, indeed!

     The world is turned upside down. It might look the same, but we are standing in a different place. Christ is risen. We are risen. Alleluia!

Sunday Readings

April 12, 2015: Second Sunday of Easter
Acts 4:32-35
Psalm 133
I John 1:1—2:2
John 20:19-31

April 19, 2015: Third Sunday of Easter
Acts 3:12-19
Psalm 4
I John 3:1-7
Luke 24:36b-48

Sunday’s Adult Forum : April 12, 9:30 am

 “Dietrich Bonhoeffer: On the 70th Anniversary of His Death,” presented by John Matthews, Pastor of Grace Lutheran Church in Apple Valley, and author of Bonhoeffer: A Brief Overview of the Life and Writings of Dietrich Bonhoeffer.

Semi-Annual Congregation Meeting to be Held April 26

     The Semi-annual Congregational meeting of Mount Olive congregation will be held after second liturgy on Sunday, April 26.

     On the agenda is the election of Vestry Officers. The slate of candidates recommended by the Vestry for election are:

• President, Lora Dundek (1-year term)
• Secretary, Peggy Hoeft (1-year term)
• Vice President, Tom Graves (1-year term)
• Treasurer, Tim Lindholm (1-year term)
• Education Director, Steve Manuel (3-year term)
• Property Director, Art Halbardier (3-year term)
• Youth Director, Amy Thompson (3-year term)

Nominations for the Vestry may also be offered from the floor.

Other items of business are:
• Ministry Fair/Update on Vision process
• Mount Olive Foundation Presentation

All voting members of Mount Olive are encouraged to attend.

Encounters with Jesus: Bible Study on Thursday Evenings Starting April 16

     The second Thursday Bible study series of this year begins on Thursday, April 16, and runs for five weeks in the Chapel Lounge from 6:00-7:30 pm. The final session will end with Worship for the Feast of the Ascension.

     Vicar McLaughlin will lead a study focusing on five stories of encounters with Jesus from the New Testament. In addition to discussing the context and background, we will use the Ignatian meditation form, Praying with Imagination, as a way of entering into the stories.

     As usual, there will be a light supper when we begin. (The first meal is covered, and a sign-up sheet will passed around for the remaining weeks.)

     All are welcome to this study opportunity!

For Your Information 

• Continue the Conversation (about end of life decision making) workshop is scheduled for April 18, 10 am – noon at Mount Olive.  You can register at the table in the reception area.  You will see “sticky notes” with questions on the poster. If one or more states a question or concern you have, attach it to a 3 x 5 card along with your name for your registration for the event and put it in the bowl. Your family/friends are welcome; we just need to know how many people to plan for.

• Can you Help?  As noted previously in The Olive Branch, your Congregational Care Committee continues to “grow” this list of caring folks.  If you would like to be included, your name can be added now.  Those of you who have signed on have not been forgotten.  This is a developing program; more to come!  

Book Discussion Group Update

For the April 11 meeting, the group will read The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, by Mark Twain; and for May 9, The Boat of Longing, by O. E. Rølvaag. This group meets at 10 am on the second Saturday of the month, in west assembly area.

We Have a Team Racing!

     On Saturday, May 2, Mount Olive will have a team participating in the Amazing gRace. What is that? Who is the team? How can we cheer and support?

     The Amazing gRace is sponsored by the Lutheran Volunteer Corps, one of Mount Olive’s Global Mission partners. The LVC “unites volunteers with financial supporters, nonprofit organizations, and ministries to work for peace with justice across the nation.”  You might remember learning about LVC at our 2014 Taste of New Orleans.

     The Amazing gRace combines brain-twisting challenges, service work, community outreach, and social justice education. Teams of two people compete against each other to solve a number of challenges spread out across the city. For instance, they might make their way to a food shelf and shelve food as quickly as possible or they might need to locate an historical social justice site. Who knows what challenges this year’s race will bring?

     Our team is Anna Dundek and Eric Bell. Anna and Eric are up for the challenge and need your support!

     Did we get you interested? Watch for more info in the coming weeks!

Koester Presentations Now Available Online

     The lectures on the book of Revelation from the recent Adult Forum series presented by Dr. Craig Koester are now on YouTube!

     First lecture: https://youtu.be/gA-tRFB1FKk
     Second: https://youtu.be/vxBgAjuhi3I
     Third:  https://youtu.be/ni_sqpJQLok
     Fourth: http://youtu.be/NefjHa0DWdo

Easter Paschal Garden Contributors

Thanks to the following persons who donated flowers to beautify our church for the celebration of Easter: Joe & Elizabeth Beissel; Marlene & Jim Sorenson; Christina Harrison; Tom Graves & Ginny Agresti; Mary Rose Watson, Judy & Walt Hinck; Art and Elaine Halbardier, in memory of Susan Cheshire; Louis & Kay Krohnfeldt; Steve & Sandra Pranschke; Leanna Kloempken; Robert Gotwalt; Bruce & Linda Wagner; Larry Duncan; Dennis Bidwell & Eric Zander; Evelyn Royce; Melba Smrcka; Katherine Hanson; Cathy Bosworth & Marty Hamlin; Carol Austermann; Ken Siess; Ann Bruggeman; Tim & Samantha Pipkorn; Judy Graves; Adam Krueger & Thomas Fenner, in memory of Alfred Krueger; Donn & Bonnie McLellan; Mike Edwins, in memory of Steve Edwins; David & Susan Cherwien, in honor of their parents; Rob & Lynn Ruff family; Beth & Neil Hering, in honor of their parents; Allan & Margaret Bostelmann, in honor of Lucy Hulme; Brenda Bartz; Walter & Marian Cherwien; George & Marlys Oelfke; Bill & Nan Wilson; Carol Martinson; Annette Roth; Leila Froehlich; George Ferguson; Paul & Melissa Stone, in memory of John W. Sears; Allen & Lora Dundek, in memory of loved ones; Al Bipes; Janet Moede; Don Johnson; Tom Olsen, in memory of Harry & Gen Olsen and in memory of Jim & Grace Tomson; Joseph & Mary Crippen; John, Audrey, and Eleanor Crippen; Don Luther & Heather Halen; Beverly Shupe; Kathy Thurston & Dwight Penas; Andrew Andersen; Dan & Julia Adams; and Larry & Janet Crosby.

Night On the Street

     On Friday, April 17, TRUST Youth will once again participate in raising awareness and funds to help alleviate youth homelessness. Sponsored by Beacon Interfaith Housing Collaborative, hundreds of youth from around the Twin Cities will participate in an overnight in the parking lot of Plymouth Congregational Church near downtown Minneapolis. The youth (and chaperones) will get their own cardboard box to sleep in for the night, have a soup line meal, and learn from former homeless youth and those that help them what can be done to help.

     Donations (which are tax deductible!) from Night on the Street go to help fund the interim housing facilities run by Beacon Interfaith. You can make a tax deductible donation to this effort through April 16. Please make checks payable to “Night On the Street” and give your donation to Julie or Eric Manuel or leave it in the church office. If you have any questions, please contact Julie or Eric Manuel.

Benefit for Our Saviour’s Community Services

     Caritas Vocal Ensemble will present a concert on behalf of Our Saviour’s Community Services on Sunday, April 19, at 3 pm. It will be held at Lake of the Isles Lutheran Church, 2020 W. Lake of the Isles Pkwy. in Minneapolis. Admission is free, though donations are gratefully accepted to support the work of OSCS—ending homelessness and educating immigrants. Light refresh-ments provided. Please come and bring your friends!

Easter Weekend Videos on YouTube

     Thanks to Paul Nixdorf, who captured a couple of brief but wonderful moments at the liturgies this past weekend – one from Easter Vigil, and one from Easter Day.  Click the links below to see them (if you haven’t already seen them on Facebook).

Easter Vigil: http://youtu.be/qVYJktNXBv0
Easter Gospel Procession:  http://youtu.be/tNLS36bCLiY

News From the Neighborhood
Anna Kingman

     In an effort to share about the relationships being built through our interaction in the neighborhood, we will hear from the people who find support, relief, and help through Mount Olive.

Profiles: The Crisis Fund
     I’ve been able to share some stories recently about the people that come to Mount Olive in need of some assistance, whether that is spiritual, material, financial, or all those things. You’ve heard about Rodney, Istarlin, Bradford, and Hilda, to name a few. These are neighbors of Mount Olive who have found themselves being tossed in the waves by the trials in their lives and they need some help to feel solid ground beneath their feet.  

     So often I get to have conversations with people not only about their struggles, but also about their hope. Their effort alone is evidence to the spark of hope that lingers through trials. Because of the generosity of those that give to Mount Olive, we are able to help meet their needs in a small financial way, without the red tape and strings attached that many other organizations have. The Crisis Fund budget is about being a means of grace and hope on the corner of Chicago Ave. It’s not a perfect solution, but for many whose stories I’ve shared, it’s the blessing they need and God provides through you. From those who have received those gifts, thank you for supporting that ministry in so many ways – in food donations, hygiene supplies, your gifts, prayers, words, and actions in caring for our neighbors.

Mark Your Calendars for the May Day Parade, Sunday, May 3, Noon

   (Mount Olive friends who would like to march in the parade should meet at the corner of Bloomington Ave. & 28th St. at Noon!)

     The May Day Parade and Festival has become a joyous annual rite of spring. More than 2,000 participants, along with amazing puppets and floats, parade down Bloomington Avenue telling a story and creating a moving theatrical performance. Thousands more line the streets to watch the parade and participate in day-long activities. Following the parade, a pageant and tree of life ceremony in Powderhorn Park ushers in the renewal of a new spring season. For more information or to get involved check the HOBT website: http://hobt.org/mayday/

Opportunities to BE Involved

Summer ACTS is Coming Up

     Summer ACTS (Adults and Children Teaming to Serve) will take place at Mount Olive for four weeks, June 21 – July 16, from 10 am-2 pm (Monday through Thursday).

     Kids ages 9-14 will learn about service and responsibility by holding a summer job while participating in fun, meaningful projects.

     We will need mentors to work and play alongside them. Please start to consider if this is an option for you and your family to be involved for two days during one or all of the weeks!

     More info and sign-up information is coming soon.

     Questions? Contact Anna at Neighborhood@mountolivechurch.org

Can You Help a Neighbor in Need?

     The Community University Healthcare Center is looking  for someone to help a single, disabled woman clean and organize her home near Lake Nokomis. Commitment could be spread out between 2-3 hours over 2-3 days. If you might be interested, please call or contact Anna, 612-827-5919,   Neighborhood@mountolivechurch.org

National Lutheran Choir to Presents Gretchaninoff’s Passion Week

     The National Lutheran Choir brings Alexander Gretchaninoff’s glorious Passion Week to the majestic Basilica of Saint Mary in Minneapolis and Zumbro Lutheran Church in Rochester.

Thursday, April 30, 2015 – 8pm
Basilica of Saint Mary (88 N 17th St., Minneapolis, MN 55403)

Saturday, May 2, 2015 – 7pm
Zumbro Lutheran Church (624 3rd Ave. SW, Rochester, MN 55902)

Tickets: $25 Adult – $23 Senior – $10 Students aged 17 and under FREE. For tickets or more information, call (888) 747-4589 or visit www.nlca.com

Transitions Support Group

     All are welcome to visit the Transitions Support Group meetings if you’ve been hoping to find new ideas or encouragement to meet the challenges or uncertainties that are before you. This is an opportunity to share in fellowship, prayer, and discussion with others in the Mount Olive community.
     The next session meets on Wednesday, April 15, from 6:00 – 7:00 pm at Mount Olive in the lower level Youth Room, and will be facilitated by Amy Cotter and Cathy Bosworth.    

     If you have questions, please contact Cathy at 612-708-1144 or marcat8447@yahoo.com.

Faith and Creation

     Join Luther Seminary for the 2015 Rutlen Lecture, a bi-annual lecture series focused on faith and creation. This year’s lecture, “Creation, Sin and Sacrament in the Anthropocene,” will be given by Larry Rasmussen, Reinhold Niebuhr Professor Emeritus of Social Ethics at Union Seminary.

     The planet faces massive changes brought on by human beings. These likely include a new geological epoch, the “Anthropocene,” that challenges long-established ways of life. The base points of Christian faith are challenged as well, from first things to last. This Rutlen Lecture probes the meaning of creation, sin and sacrament for a new epoch.

     Congregational leaders are invited to “Integrating Green in Congregations” at 3:30 p.m. on Tuesday, April 21. A $10 buffet dinner will be available prior to the lecture at 7 p.m. that evening. After the lecture, Rasmussen will hold a book signing for “Earth-honoring Faith: Religious Ethics in a New Key.” He will also preach in chapel on April 22 at 11 a.m. All events take place in the Olson Campus Center at Luther Seminary.

     To find out more about Luther’s lecture series and to RSVP for the dinner, please visit: www.luthersem.edu/lectures/faithandcreation.

Palm Plants Free for the Taking!

     Would you like to have one of the palm plants from our Holy Week liturgies last week? Help yourself! They are in the East Assembly Room, and are available on a first-come-first-served basis.

About Those Green Cards

     You may have noticed the new ticket-sized green cards that peek up from behind the visitor cards in the pews. They’re a response to what some have called the “empty plate problem”—collection plates with little in them as they’re passed through, say, the seventh row and not close to full when they reach the back of the nave. Stated more positively, the cards—now used in many congregations—are intended to give the growing number of worshipers who give electronically or write fewer, larger checks a way of sensing their participation in the offering when it is presented in the liturgy.

     As it says on the card: “When the offering is gathered, you may use this card to represent your gifts through Simply Giving® or another form of direct deposit or early gifts that fulfill your intended giving for a month, quarter, or other period.”

     Use of the green cards should represent actual giving, but how a person may choose to use them is flexible. If, for example, my Simply Giving transaction is set up to take place on the twelfth day of each month, can I use a green card every Sunday of the month? Do whatever to you feel is appropriate.

     To enroll in Simply Giving or another form of direct deposit, contact the church office (612-827-5919 or welcome@mountolivechurch.org).

     Is this a “push” to get more of us to give electronically? No. It’s simply recognizing that the ways we make financial transactions in our society are changing and that more and more of us are opting for electronic ways to use money. We now have thirty-one households using Simply Giving.

     Because the cards are at the ends of the pews, take one as you’re entering the pew if you intend to sit near the middle of the pew. Don’t write your name or gift amount on the card; they get recycled back to the pews.

     We hope the cards will help all of us, individually and as a worshiping community, sense more fully our participation in the offering.

– Stewardship Committee