Accent on Worship

A few Sundays ago I stood along with many of you, hymnal in hand, the organ leading us, as fervent voices lifted up in energetic praise a song of worship. I could sense, feel, and share in that almost touchable offering that was flowing through the pews and up into the sky. It was that Sunday that I decided that yes, indeed, this is a place I could work with and worship with.

The following weeks meant more interviews and a job offer from Mount Olive to begin as the Coordinator of Neighbor-hood Outreach and Ministry. Through the hard work of the Visioning committee and interview team, they had created a vivid and inspiring picture of the possibilities and hopes for what can be done through this position.  I was encouraged along the way to hear that there is a deep-seated history of pursuing social justice issues and service, and that the people that make up this place are ready and willing to continue that work.

As I step into this role and learn from its past and present, I am both impressed and fortified that there is still much, so much, to be done. Through deep listening, open conversa-tions, and active involvement, my role will be to see and guide the efforts of this congregation to fully participate and BE a part of the neighborhood and its people’s lives so that we may all experience God’s presence and blessing.

I am reminded of the verses that sustained me through my 2 years in a tiny mountain town in Peru as I served in the Peace Corps: “I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strength-en you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge – that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever!”

Let us dare to hope and dream and love with the know-ledge that it is God who is at work ahead of us, beside us, and within us.

– Anna Kingman

Sunday Readings

October 12, 2014: 18th Sunday after Pentecost (Lect. 28A)
Isaiah 25:1-9
Psalm 23
Philippians 4:1-9
Matthew 22:1-14
______________________

October 19, 2014: 19th Sunday after Pentecost (Lect. 29A)
Isaiah 45:1-7
Psalm 96:1-9 [10-13]
I Thessalonians 1:1-10
Matthew 22:15-22

Sunday’s Adult Forum: October 12

 “Music for Occasional Services,” presented by Cantor David Cherwien.

Marriage and funeral rites take place within the context of a liturgy of communal worship. How does this fact shape the selection of hymns, anthems, solos, and other music for these liturgies?

2015 Budget Preview Meeting

     The Vestry’s proposed 2015 budget will ask us to stretch ourselves to invest in and support our rostered staff, improve our building, and increase our commitment to live as Christ’s followers in the world.

A copy of the proposed budget is attached/included with this newsletter.

Come learn more at the budget preview after second liturgy this coming Sunday, October 12, beginning at approximately 12:30, and then attend the semi-annual congregational meeting on October 19 at Noon.

Congregation Meeting

     The semi-annual meeting of the Mount Olive congregation will be held on Sunday, October 19, after second liturgy.  Items for discussion include:

• the 2015 budget (needs congregational vote and approval)
• updates from the Visioning Committee
• a preview of on-going Stewardship work
• news from the current Capital Campaign to replenish our designated accounts and cash reserves.

Transitions Support Group

     All are welcome to drop in and visit the Transitions Support Group to see if this is a place where you might find some solace and reassurance for 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.

Please note the following change in time and location for our next meeting.  The next session meets on Saturday, November 22, 9:00 am at 3120 E. Minnehaha Parkway, Minneapolis 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.

Installation of Anna Kingman October 12

Note the schedule change for the day:

8:00 a.m. Morning Prayer
9:30 a.m. Education Hour
10:45 a.m.  Eucharist and Installation
12:00 p.m., after liturgy: refreshments and fellowship with Anna Kingman
12:30 p.m. or so, 2015 Budget Preview Forum

This Sunday, October 12, we will install our new Coordinator of Neighborhood Outreach and Ministry, Anna Kingman.

Anna’s been working with us since Sept. 23.  Her hiring is the beginning of a new time in the life of Mount Olive congregation.  She will continue to do many of the things Donna Neste was doing, but in addition, her new job description includes a deep involvement in the life and work of this congregation.  We asked her to join us as a member, which she did last Sunday, Oct. 5.  She will work with us to help us better understand our mission and ministry in this neighborhood and in our neighborhoods.  She will dream with us and help us not only to hear God’s call but also help us to put hands and feet to what we hear.  We’ve asked her among us to help us get to work!

When the pastor and cantor of this congregation are installed, a special worship schedule for the day is used, and in light of the importance of this new position and what we hope for Anna to do in leadership among us, we will celebrate her installation the same way.  This Sunday, Oct. 12, we’ll have Morning Prayer at 8:00 a.m., regular Education Hour at 9:30 a.m., and then Eucharist and Installation at 10:45 a.m.  This way the whole congregation can gather at once in God’s grace and presence as we commit to our work together with Anna.

A couple other notable things related to these days: This Sunday, Oct. 12, there is a time of fellowship and refreshments with Anna after second liturgy. Following that, there will be a forum introducing the 2015 budget.  This is in preparation for the October Semi-Annual Meeting of the Congregation, set for Sunday, Oct. 19, after second liturgy (see page 2 for more information).
Lastly, Anna will lead the Adult Forum on Oct. 19, to introduce herself and the ministry she’s beginning with us.

First Music & Fine Arts Event of the Season to be Held This Sunday

     On Sunday, October 12, at 4:00 pm, Mount Olive Music & Fine Arts is pleased to present a recital by organist Aaron David Miller. He will play works of Bach, Sweelinck, Gigout, and improvisation.
Aaron is Music Director and Organist at House of Hope Presbyterian Church in St. Paul. He is known as one of the finest organ improvisers in the country, having won several international awards and given concerts across the nation. The improvisation for this concert will be an on-the-spot creation, using themes gathered from the audience! Don’t miss it!

A reception will follow.

Brain Power Needs Treat Power!

     Please help us in providing our tutoring program kids with some re-fueling treats through-out the school year!

We are looking for a snack and beverage for each Tuesday after the tutoring program to send kids home smart and happy.

There are sign-up sheets downstairs by the Community Events bulletin board, or you may contact Anna Kingman, Coordinator of Neighborhood Outreach and Ministry at 612-827-5910, or by email to neighborhood@mountolivechurch.org. (Email is the best and fastest way to reach me!)
We are also in need of more substitute tutors to be on-call for the year. We hope to serve many kids and want each one to get the attention they need.

Let me know if you are interested.

– Anna Kingman

Support Mount Olive Music & Fine Arts!

     Members of the Music & Fine Arts Committee will be on hand between the liturgies this Sunday, October 12, to receive your donations to support this year’s series!

2014-2015 brochures were sent electronically with last week’s Olive Branch. If you would like a hard copy of the brochure mailing, you may either pick one up at church or contact the church office and we will be happy to mail one to you.

Names of the Departed Saints Invited

     As a part of our All Saints liturgy on Nov. 2, members are invited to submit the names of loved ones close to them who have died in the past year, since last All Saints Sunday, who weren’t members of Mount Olive.  (Members of the parish who have died are always named.)  These other names submitted will be included in the prayers of intercession.  There will be an opportunity to write these names this Sunday and in the remaining weeks of October, or simply contact the church office.  Please keep this to just those who have died this past year, so we can have a more manageable list.

Mount Olive Directory Photos Fall 2014 Schedule

     If you did not get your personal, couple or family photos taken last fall there will be a time to get your photos taken in October and included in the updated directory.

We invite folks who have been worshiping regularly but are not members at Mount Olive to also have their photo(s) taken to include in the directory so that others can put names and faces together.
Below are listed the time slots available to have your photos taken. Select the day and approximate time(s) that work best for you and call or email the church office to sign up (612-827-5919/welcome@mountolivechurch.org).

You will be contacted the week before the sessions with a specific time for your photo session. Photos will be taken in the lower level of the education building.

• Wednesday, October 8 – 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM
• Thursday, October 9 – 1:00 PM to 7:00 PM
• Saturday, October 11 – 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM
• Sunday, October 12 – 12:30 to 1:30 PM following the liturgy

Once you have signed up for a date and approximate times that work for you, we will combine all of the requests and set up a schedule to take all those requesting that specific day.  If you have further questions please contact Paul Nixdorf (photographer) by phone at 612-296-0055, or by email to pn@paulnixdorf.com.

Welcome to Matt and Brooke Roegge’s new baby girl!

     While the birth of a child is always a time of joy and celebration, it is also a time of adjusting to new routines – and sometimes getting a meal on the table can be challenging.      If you are so inclined to offer a welcome, dinner might be just the ticket.

Matt & Brooke are vegetarians, but they eat fish, eggs, cheese, etc. (word has it that they aren’t picky at all!)  If you’d like to provide a meal, you can call or email Marilyn Gebauer at 612-306-8872, or gebauevm@bitstream.net to schedule a date.

 “Bowing to the Holy”

Mount Olive is partnering with The Lutheran Church of the Resurrection ,  Lutheran Church of the Redeemer, and Pilgrim Lutheran Churches in St. Paul to present a one day worship conference on Saturday, November 22, at Lutheran Church of the Redeemer.

Information on the conference, “Bowing to the Holy,” is available at church. If you would like a brochure to be mailed to you, just call the church office.

Meals for the Manuels to be Continued 

     Thanks to all who have generously signed up to bring Friday dinners to the Manuel family.  The calendar to date is filled through to November 7, with the exception of Friday, October 31.  If you can bring dinner on that date (Halloween) or on any Friday from November 14 on, please let Marilyn Gebauer know at gebauevm@bitstream.net or 612-306-8872.

Julie’s treatment will continue for at least the next several months.  The family is very grateful for the support of prayers and meals during this difficult time.

National Lutheran Choir All Saints Concerts: “The Souls of the Righteous”

     This All Saints weekend, the National Lutheran Choir invites you to honor the saints in your life by gathering to reflect through song and prayer. Prior to our two concerts, guests are encouraged to add the name of a friend or family member that has passed away to the Book of Names (also available online at www.nlca.com). Candles will be lit in remembrance, and the Book of Names will be read aloud throughout the concerts. Artistic Director, David Cherwien, conducts.

Musical highlights include: Funeral Ikos by John Tavener, When David Heard by Thomas Weelkes, O Tod, wie bitter bist du (O Death, how bitter are you) by Max Reger, This is My Father’s World and Stars by Eriks Esenvalds, Angels Hovering Round by Kevin Siegfried, and
The Souls of the Righteous by David Cherwien.

When & Where:
• Saturday, November 1, 2014 – 7pm, Normandale Lutheran Church (6100 Normandale Rd, Edina, MN 55436)
• Sunday, November 2, 2014 – 4pm, St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church (900 Stillwater Rd, Mahtomedi, MN 55115)

Tickets: $25 Adult | $23 Senior | $10 Student | 17 & under – FREE. For additional information or to purchase tickets, visit www.nlca.com or call 612-722-2301.

Chosen: Bible Study on Thursday Evenings  

     Meeting in the Chapel Lounge on Thursday evenings through October 23 (6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.), Pr. Crippen is leading a study titled “Chosen.”  This is an exploration of the biblical witness to Abraham and Sarah and their family, with a focus on what the Bible means by “chosen people,” and how that continues in the present both as our calling and also a challenge in a pluralistic, often violent world.

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

Wedding Invitation

     In gratitude for the community that is Mount Olive, we invite you to join us in celebrating the marriage of our daughter Siri Rebecca Hellerman and John Michael Guari, and for light refreshments in the Chapel Lounge,  following the liturgy.  Saturday, 25 October 2014, 2:00 pm.

– David and Diana Hellerman

Book Discussion Group’s Upcoming Reads

     For their meeting on October 11, the Book Discussion group will read The Reluctant Fundamentalist, by Mohsin Hamid. For the meeting on November 8 they will read Flight Behavior, by Barbara Kingsolver.

The 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!

Accent on Worship

You might have noticed…

     Sometimes there are unspoken practices or gestures that become a part of the liturgy in a community. They are not a part of the rubrics (rubric- from the word for red, meaning the directions in red in the worship book). They are sometimes individual acts of worship, sometimes done by many, or, sometimes, most, of the worshipers. No actions are mandated; if they were in the rubrics, the rubric would probably say “The congregation may…”.  Nor do these practices have only one meaning or significance: that meaning may vary from person to person. But it just might be helpful from time to time to hear what thoughts are behind some of these acts of worship.  

•   Sign of the cross (on forehead and chest):  this is a gesture which reminds the observer of their baptism – the same sign made on the  forehead at baptism with the words naming the Holy Trinity:  “In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit”.  Some worshipers sign a small cross on their forehead, lips, and heart at the announcement of the Gospel to signify the desire to receive it with an open mind, proclaim it with our lips, and cherish it in our heart.

•   Bowing to the cross in procession:  as a reverent acknowledgement of the presence of the Risen Christ.

•   Standing for the final stanza of a hymn: when the last stanza of a hymn includes naming the Trinity –  “Father, Son, and Holy Spirit” – or, is a stanza of doxology (praise) naming the Trinity, many will stand, if the congregation is not already standing, as a posture of  reverence and full praise.  The zimbelstern on the organ may sound to indicate this reverence, as well.  The zimbelstern also  usually sounds at the Sanctus (“Holy, holy, holy, Lord God of power and might”) of the eucharistic liturgy.

•   Three-stanza hymns without alternation instructions.  Quite often the middle stanza is sung in harmony, as the congregation corporately chooses.  If  I, as the organist, am using a different harmonization and hear harmony being sung,  I try to immediately switch to the harmony being sung by the congregation.
•   Odd-numbered verses in the psalmody, but a double tone.  When a double tone is used (which spans two verses) for singing the verses of the psalm, and there is an odd number of verses, the last lone verse is sung to the last two measures of the tone.

•   At the last line of the opening of the Great Thanksgiving many people sing “It is right to give God thanks and praise” instead of the words in the book “It is right to give our thanks and praise.”  This is a conscious effort on the part of those who sing the first example to keep our language centered on God and not on us.

•   Subtle hospitality.  Some worshipers open their hymnals to the pages of the liturgies even if they know them from memory.  Some people intentionally sit in front of a person who may be unfamiliar with the liturgical practices in this place, in order to alleviate uncertainty as to when to stand or sit or kneel or where the liturgy or hymn is in the worship book.

     This list is just a beginning.  Within the body of Christ’s church that worships in this place, there is a variety of gifts, a variety of understandings.  It has to do with which observances actually bring you more deeply into the presence of God and each other.

– Cantor David Cherwien

Sunday Readings

October 5, 2014: 17th Sunday after Pentecost (Lect. 27A)
Isaiah 5:1-7
Psalm 80:7-15
Philippians 3:4b-14
Matthew 21:33-46
______________________

October 12, 2014: 18th Sunday after Pentecost (Lect. 28A)
Isaiah 25:1-9
Psalm 23
Philippians 4:1-9
Matthew 22:1-14

Sunday’s Adult Forum: October 5

 “Restorative Justice: An Alternative to Imprison-ment,” presented by Amy Levad. Amy teaches moral theology at the University of St. Thomas and is the author of Redeeming A Prison Society: A Liturgical and Sacramental Response To Mass Incarceration and Restorative Justice: Theories and Practices of Moral Imagination.

2015 Budget Preview

     On Sunday, October 12, following the second liturgy and a welcome celebration for Anna Kingman, the Vestry will host a brief opportunity to preview the 2015 budget. This is a good time to ask questions, get clarifica-tion, and hear the Vestry’s think-ing about 2015 and our work moving forward. Copies of the budget will be available via email from the church office, and hard copies will also be available in the office.

Congregation Meeting

     The semi-annual meeting of the Mount Olive congregation will be held on Sunday, October 19, after second liturgy.  Items for discussion include:
• the 2015 budget (needs congregational vote and approval)
• updates from the Visioning Committee
• a preview of on-going Stewardship work
• news from the current Capital Campaign to replenish our designated accounts and cash reserves.

Installation of Anna Kingman October 12

Note the schedule change for the day:

8:00 a.m. Morning Prayer
9:30 a.m. Education Hour
10:45 a.m.  Eucharist and Installation
12:00 p.m., after liturgy: refreshments and fellowship with Anna Kingman
12:30 p.m. or so, 2015 Budget Preview Forum

     On Sunday, October 12, we will install our new Coordinator of Neighborhood Outreach and Ministry, Anna Kingman.

     Anna’s been working with us since Sept. 23.  Her hiring is the beginning of a new time in the life of Mount Olive congregation.  She will continue to do many of the things Donna was doing, but in addition her new job description includes a deep involvement in the life and work of this congregation.  We have asked her to join us as a member, which she will do Sunday, Oct. 5.  She will be working with us to help us better understand our mission and ministry in this neighborhood and in our neighborhoods.  She will be dreaming with us and helping us not only to hear God’s call but also helping us to put hands and feet to what we hear.  We’ve asked her among us to help us get to work!

     When the pastor and cantor of this congregation are installed, a special worship schedule is done, and in light of the importance of this new position and what we hope for Anna to do in leadership among us, we will celebrate her installation the same way.  On Sunday, Oct. 12, we’ll have Morning Prayer at 8:00 a.m., regular Education Hour at 9:30 a.m., and then Eucharist and Installation at 10:45 a.m.  This way the whole congregation can gather in God’s grace and presence as we commit to our work together with Anna.

     A couple other notable things related to these days: On Oct. 12, there is a time of fellowship and refreshments with Anna after second liturgy, following that, there will be a forum introducing the 2015 budget.  This is in preparation for the October Semi-Annual Meeting of the Congregation, set for Sunday, Oct. 19, after second liturgy (see page 2 for more information).

Lastly, Anna will lead the Adult Forum on Oct. 19, to introduce herself and the ministry she’s beginning with us.

Brain Power Needs Treat Power!

     Please help us in providing our tutoring program kids with some re-fueling treats through-out the school year!

     We are looking for a snack and beverage for each Tuesday after the tutoring program to send kids home smart and happy.

     There are sign-up sheets downstairs by the Community Events bulletin board, or you may contact Anna Kingman, Coordinator of Neighborhood Outreach and Ministry at 612-827-5910, or by email to neighborhood@mountolivechurch.org. (Email is the best and fastest way to reach me!)

     We are also in need of more substitute tutors to be on-call for the year. We hope to serve many kids and want each one to get the attention they need.

     Let me know if you are interested.

– Anna Kingman

Support Mount Olive Music & Fine Arts!

     Members of the Music & Fine Arts Committee will be on hand between the liturgies this Sunday, October 5 and next Sunday, October 12, to receive your donations to this year’s series!

First Music & Fine Arts Event of the Season to be Held on October 12

     On Sunday, October 12, at 4:00 pm, Mount Olive Music & Fine Arts is pleased to present a recital by organist Aaron David Miller. He will play works of Bach, Sweelinck, Gigout, and improvisation.  

     Aaron is Music Director and Organist at House of Hope Presbyterian Church in St. Paul. He is known as one of the finest organ improvisers in the country, having won several international awards and given concerts across the nation. The improvisation for this concert will be an on-the-spot creation, using themes gathered from the audience! Don’t miss it!

     A reception will follow.

Book Discussion Group’s Upcoming Reads

     For their meeting on October 11, the Book Discussion group will read The Reluctant Fundamentalist, by Mohsin Hamid. For the meeting on November 8 they will read Flight Behavior, by Barbara Kingsolver.
     The 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!

Transitions Support Group

     All are welcome to drop in and visit the Transitions Support Group to see if this is a place where you might find some solace and reassurance for 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, October 1 (tonight!), at 6:30 pm in the Youth Room (lower level), 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.

A Note of Thanks

     I want to thank all of you for your care and support over the last seven months while I worked with you as Interim Coordinator of Neighborhood Ministries. Worshipping with you and working alongside many of you as been a blessing for me in so many ways.

     Thank you for a very meaningful Farewell and Godspeed and a wonderful reception. I look forward to worshipping with you from time to time and know that you will work with the new Coordinator as you move forward with your vision for Mount Olive in this community. I will miss you.

– Connie Toavs

Mount Olive Directory Photos Fall 2014 Schedule

     If you did not get your personal, couple or family photos taken last fall there will be a time to get your photos taken in October and included in the updated directory.

     We invite folks who have been worshiping regularly but are not members at Mount Olive to also have their photo(s) taken to include in the directory so that others can put names and faces together.

     Below are listed the time slots available to have your photos taken. Select the day and approximate time(s) that work best for you and call or email the church office to sign up (612-827-5919/welcome@mountolivechurch.org).

     You will be contacted the week before the sessions with a specific time for your photo session. Photos will be taken in the lower level of the education building.

• Sunday, October 5 – 12:30 to 1:30 PM following the liturgy
• Wednesday, October 8 – 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM
• Thursday, October 9 – 1:00 PM to 7:00 PM
• Saturday, October 11 – 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM
• Sunday, October 12 – 12:30 to 1:30 PM following the liturgy

     Once you have signed up for a date and approximate times that work for you, we will combine all of the requests and set up a schedule to take all those requesting that specific day.  If you have further questions please contact Paul Nixdorf (photographer) by phone at 612-296-0055, or by email to pn@paulnixdorf.com.

Pastor’s Sabbatical

     Pastor Crippen is working with the Vestry on initial planning for his upcoming sabbatical.  The sabbatical will be from April through June of 2015, beginning on the Monday after Easter.

     At this point there aren’t many details to share, but as more is known, it will be published in The Olive Branch.  The budget being presented by the Vestry for 2015 will reflect the costs of the sabbatical.

Meals for the Manuels to be Continued

     Thanks to all who have generously signed up to bring Friday dinners to the Manuel family.  The calendar to date is filled through to November 7, with the exception of Friday, October 31.  If you can bring dinner on that date (Halloween) or on any Friday from November 14 on, please let Marilyn Gebauer know at gebauevm@bitstream.net or 612-306-8872.

    Julie’s treatment will continue for at least the next several months.  The family is very grateful for the support of prayers and meals during this difficult time.

MOGAL-NOW sponsors a Mid-Century Modern Parade of Homes tour and Potluck Dinner

     This coming Sunday, October 5, at 4:00 pm, MOGAL-NOW invites members of Mount Olive to visit two mid-century modern homes that are listed on the 2014 national tour of MCM homes.

     Lynn Dobson and Tony Thoe have invited us to their home at 278 Stonebridge Blvd., St Paul. Their home, along with the home of Geri and John Bjork, 316 Stonebridge Blvd, is listed as part of the Docomomo national tour the following weekend. We get a preview tour a week early, plus dinner and great conversation.  (Visit http://www.docomomo-us.org/tour_day_2014_minnesota  to view the website about the Docomomo tour. Their home is pictured on this site).
We will gather there at 4:00 pm on October 5 to check out the interesting architecture and landscaping at their home, and also walk three homes away to Geri and John Bjork’s home. Around 5:15 pm Lynn and Tony will begin grilling hamburgers and hot dogs and we will set out our potluck items and enjoy a meal together. We will also have a short discussion about upcoming MOGAL-NOW events. The evening will end with ice cream sundaes.

     If you can join us for our Parade of Homes event please RSVP by calling the church office at 612-827-5919, or by dropping an email to welcome@mountolivechurch.org. When you email please indicate how many will be coming and also what you plan to bring for the potluck dinner that will go with hamburgers and hotdogs. Also plan to bring beverages (adult and otherwise).

     MOGAL-NOW is the new and up to date version of the MOGAL (Mount Olive Gay and Lesbian) group. MOGAL-NOW is inclusive and of course, “straight friendly”. MOGAL-NOW plans to sponsor a series of social, informative and of course fun events throughout the year bringing together the entire Mount Olive community.

Chosen: Bible Study on Thursday Evenings

     Meeting in the Chapel Lounge on Thursday evenings through October 23 (6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.), Pr. Crippen is leading a study titled “Chosen.”  This is an exploration of the biblical witness to Abraham and Sarah and their family, with a focus on what the Bible means by “chosen people,” and how that continues in the present both as our calling and also a challenge in a pluralistic, often violent world.
 
     As usual, there will be a light supper when we begin.  All are welcome to this study opportunity!

Accent on Worship

You might have noticed…

     Sometimes there are unspoken practices or gestures that become a part of the liturgy in a community. They are not a part of the rubrics (rubric- from the word for red, meaning the directions in red in the worship book). They are sometimes individual acts of worship, sometimes done by many, or, sometimes, most, of the worshipers. No actions are mandated; if they were in the rubrics, the rubric would probably say “The congregation may…”.  Nor do these practices have only one meaning or significance: that meaning may vary from person to person. But it just might be helpful from time to time to hear what thoughts are behind some of these acts of worship.  

•   Sign of the cross (on forehead and chest):  this is a gesture which reminds the observer of their baptism – the same sign made on the  forehead at baptism with the words naming the Holy Trinity:  “In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit”.  Some worshipers sign a small cross on their forehead, lips, and heart at the announcement of the Gospel to signify the desire to receive it with an open mind, proclaim it with our lips, and cherish it in our heart.

•   Bowing to the cross in procession:  as a reverent acknowledgement of the presence of the Risen Christ.

•   Standing for the final stanza of a hymn: when the last stanza of a hymn includes naming the Trinity –  “Father, Son, and Holy Spirit” – or, is a stanza of doxology (praise) naming the Trinity, many will stand, if the congregation is not already standing, as a posture of  reverence and full praise.  The zimbelstern on the organ may sound to indicate this reverence, as well.  The zimbelstern also  usually sounds at the Sanctus (“Holy, holy, holy, Lord God of power and might”) of the eucharistic liturgy.

•   Three-stanza hymns without alternation instructions.  Quite often the middle stanza is sung in harmony, as the congregation corporately chooses.  If  I, as the organist, am using a different harmonization and hear harmony being sung,  I try to immediately switch to the harmony being sung by the congregation.
•   Odd-numbered verses in the psalmody, but a double tone.  When a double tone is used (which spans two verses) for singing the verses of the psalm, and there is an odd number of verses, the last lone verse is sung to the last two measures of the tone.

•   At the last line of the opening of the Great Thanksgiving many people sing “It is right to give God thanks and praise” instead of the words in the book “It is right to give our thanks and praise.”  This is a conscious effort on the part of those who sing the first example to keep our language centered on God and not on us.

•   Subtle hospitality.  Some worshipers open their hymnals to the pages of the liturgies even if they know them from memory.  Some people intentionally sit in front of a person who may be unfamiliar with the liturgical practices in this place, in order to alleviate uncertainty as to when to stand or sit or kneel or where the liturgy or hymn is in the worship book.

     This list is just a beginning.  Within the body of Christ’s church that worships in this place, there is a variety of gifts, a variety of understandings.  It has to do with which observances actually bring you more deeply into the presence of God and each other.

– Cantor David Cherwien

Sunday Readings

October 5, 2014: 17th Sunday after Pentecost (Lect. 27A)
Isaiah 5:1-7
Psalm 80:7-15
Philippians 3:4b-14
Matthew 21:33-46
______________________

October 12, 2014: 18th Sunday after Pentecost (Lect. 28A)
Isaiah 25:1-9
Psalm 23
Philippians 4:1-9
Matthew 22:1-14

Sunday’s Adult Forum: October 5

 “Restorative Justice: An Alternative to Imprison-ment,” presented by Amy Levad. Amy teaches moral theology at the University of St. Thomas and is the author of Redeeming A Prison Society: A Liturgical and Sacramental Response To Mass Incarceration and Restorative Justice: Theories and Practices of Moral Imagination.

2015 Budget Preview

     On Sunday, October 12, following the second liturgy and a welcome celebration for Anna Kingman, the Vestry will host a brief opportunity to preview the 2015 budget. This is a good time to ask questions, get clarifica-tion, and hear the Vestry’s think-ing about 2015 and our work moving forward. Copies of the budget will be available via email from the church office, and hard copies will also be available in the office.

Congregation Meeting

     The semi-annual meeting of the Mount Olive congregation will be held on Sunday, October 19, after second liturgy.  Items for discussion include:
• the 2015 budget (needs congregational vote and approval)
• updates from the Visioning Committee
• a preview of on-going Stewardship work
• news from the current Capital Campaign to replenish our designated accounts and cash reserves.

Installation of Anna Kingman October 12

Note the schedule change for the day:

8:00 a.m. Morning Prayer
9:30 a.m. Education Hour
10:45 a.m.  Eucharist and Installation
12:00 p.m., after liturgy: refreshments and fellowship with Anna Kingman
12:30 p.m. or so, 2015 Budget Preview Forum

     On Sunday, October 12, we will install our new Coordinator of Neighborhood Outreach and Ministry, Anna Kingman.

     Anna’s been working with us since Sept. 23.  Her hiring is the beginning of a new time in the life of Mount Olive congregation.  She will continue to do many of the things Donna was doing, but in addition her new job description includes a deep involvement in the life and work of this congregation.  We have asked her to join us as a member, which she will do Sunday, Oct. 5.  She will be working with us to help us better understand our mission and ministry in this neighborhood and in our neighborhoods.  She will be dreaming with us and helping us not only to hear God’s call but also helping us to put hands and feet to what we hear.  We’ve asked her among us to help us get to work!

     When the pastor and cantor of this congregation are installed, a special worship schedule is done, and in light of the importance of this new position and what we hope for Anna to do in leadership among us, we will celebrate her installation the same way.  On Sunday, Oct. 12, we’ll have Morning Prayer at 8:00 a.m., regular Education Hour at 9:30 a.m., and then Eucharist and Installation at 10:45 a.m.  This way the whole congregation can gather in God’s grace and presence as we commit to our work together with Anna.

     A couple other notable things related to these days: On Oct. 12, there is a time of fellowship and refreshments with Anna after second liturgy, following that, there will be a forum introducing the 2015 budget.  This is in preparation for the October Semi-Annual Meeting of the Congregation, set for Sunday, Oct. 19, after second liturgy (see page 2 for more information).

Lastly, Anna will lead the Adult Forum on Oct. 19, to introduce herself and the ministry she’s beginning with us.

Brain Power Needs Treat Power!

     Please help us in providing our tutoring program kids with some re-fueling treats through-out the school year!

     We are looking for a snack and beverage for each Tuesday after the tutoring program to send kids home smart and happy.

     There are sign-up sheets downstairs by the Community Events bulletin board, or you may contact Anna Kingman, Coordinator of Neighborhood Outreach and Ministry at 612-827-5910, or by email to neighborhood@mountolivechurch.org. (Email is the best and fastest way to reach me!)

     We are also in need of more substitute tutors to be on-call for the year. We hope to serve many kids and want each one to get the attention they need.

     Let me know if you are interested.

– Anna Kingman

Support Mount Olive Music & Fine Arts!

     Members of the Music & Fine Arts Committee will be on hand between the liturgies this Sunday, October 5 and next Sunday, October 12, to receive your donations to this year’s series!

First Music & Fine Arts Event of the Season to be Held on October 12

     On Sunday, October 12, at 4:00 pm, Mount Olive Music & Fine Arts is pleased to present a recital by organist Aaron David Miller. He will play works of Bach, Sweelinck, Gigout, and improvisation.  

     Aaron is Music Director and Organist at House of Hope Presbyterian Church in St. Paul. He is known as one of the finest organ improvisers in the country, having won several international awards and given concerts across the nation. The improvisation for this concert will be an on-the-spot creation, using themes gathered from the audience! Don’t miss it!

     A reception will follow.

Book Discussion Group’s Upcoming Reads

     For their meeting on October 11, the Book Discussion group will read The Reluctant Fundamentalist, by Mohsin Hamid. For the meeting on November 8 they will read Flight Behavior, by Barbara Kingsolver.
     The 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!

Transitions Support Group

     All are welcome to drop in and visit the Transitions Support Group to see if this is a place where you might find some solace and reassurance for 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, October 1 (tonight!), at 6:30 pm in the Youth Room (lower level), 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.

A Note of Thanks

     I want to thank all of you for your care and support over the last seven months while I worked with you as Interim Coordinator of Neighborhood Ministries. Worshipping with you and working alongside many of you as been a blessing for me in so many ways.

     Thank you for a very meaningful Farewell and Godspeed and a wonderful reception. I look forward to worshipping with you from time to time and know that you will work with the new Coordinator as you move forward with your vision for Mount Olive in this community. I will miss you.

– Connie Toavs

Mount Olive Directory Photos Fall 2014 Schedule

     If you did not get your personal, couple or family photos taken last fall there will be a time to get your photos taken in October and included in the updated directory.

     We invite folks who have been worshiping regularly but are not members at Mount Olive to also have their photo(s) taken to include in the directory so that others can put names and faces together.

     Below are listed the time slots available to have your photos taken. Select the day and approximate time(s) that work best for you and call or email the church office to sign up (612-827-5919/welcome@mountolivechurch.org).

     You will be contacted the week before the sessions with a specific time for your photo session. Photos will be taken in the lower level of the education building.

• Sunday, October 5 – 12:30 to 1:30 PM following the liturgy
• Wednesday, October 8 – 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM
• Thursday, October 9 – 1:00 PM to 7:00 PM
• Saturday, October 11 – 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM
• Sunday, October 12 – 12:30 to 1:30 PM following the liturgy

     Once you have signed up for a date and approximate times that work for you, we will combine all of the requests and set up a schedule to take all those requesting that specific day.  If you have further questions please contact Paul Nixdorf (photographer) by phone at 612-296-0055, or by email to pn@paulnixdorf.com.

Pastor’s Sabbatical

     Pastor Crippen is working with the Vestry on initial planning for his upcoming sabbatical.  The sabbatical will be from April through June of 2015, beginning on the Monday after Easter.

     At this point there aren’t many details to share, but as more is known, it will be published in The Olive Branch.  The budget being presented by the Vestry for 2015 will reflect the costs of the sabbatical.

Meals for the Manuels to be Continued

     Thanks to all who have generously signed up to bring Friday dinners to the Manuel family.  The calendar to date is filled through to November 7, with the exception of Friday, October 31.  If you can bring dinner on that date (Halloween) or on any Friday from November 14 on, please let Marilyn Gebauer know at gebauevm@bitstream.net or 612-306-8872.

    Julie’s treatment will continue for at least the next several months.  The family is very grateful for the support of prayers and meals during this difficult time.

MOGAL-NOW sponsors a Mid-Century Modern Parade of Homes tour and Potluck Dinner

     This coming Sunday, October 5, at 4:00 pm, MOGAL-NOW invites members of Mount Olive to visit two mid-century modern homes that are listed on the 2014 national tour of MCM homes.

     Lynn Dobson and Tony Thoe have invited us to their home at 278 Stonebridge Blvd., St Paul. Their home, along with the home of Geri and John Bjork, 316 Stonebridge Blvd, is listed as part of the Docomomo national tour the following weekend. We get a preview tour a week early, plus dinner and great conversation.  (Visit http://www.docomomo-us.org/tour_day_2014_minnesota  to view the website about the Docomomo tour. Their home is pictured on this site).
We will gather there at 4:00 pm on October 5 to check out the interesting architecture and landscaping at their home, and also walk three homes away to Geri and John Bjork’s home. Around 5:15 pm Lynn and Tony will begin grilling hamburgers and hot dogs and we will set out our potluck items and enjoy a meal together. We will also have a short discussion about upcoming MOGAL-NOW events. The evening will end with ice cream sundaes.

     If you can join us for our Parade of Homes event please RSVP by calling the church office at 612-827-5919, or by dropping an email to welcome@mountolivechurch.org. When you email please indicate how many will be coming and also what you plan to bring for the potluck dinner that will go with hamburgers and hotdogs. Also plan to bring beverages (adult and otherwise).

     MOGAL-NOW is the new and up to date version of the MOGAL (Mount Olive Gay and Lesbian) group. MOGAL-NOW is inclusive and of course, “straight friendly”. MOGAL-NOW plans to sponsor a series of social, informative and of course fun events throughout the year bringing together the entire Mount Olive community.

Chosen: Bible Study on Thursday Evenings

     Meeting in the Chapel Lounge on Thursday evenings through October 23 (6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.), Pr. Crippen is leading a study titled “Chosen.”  This is an exploration of the biblical witness to Abraham and Sarah and their family, with a focus on what the Bible means by “chosen people,” and how that continues in the present both as our calling and also a challenge in a pluralistic, often violent world.
 
     As usual, there will be a light supper when we begin.  All are welcome to this study opportunity!

Accent on Worship

     This month I had the joy of joining ministerial colleagues from the Minneapolis Synod at the Bishop’s Theological Conference in Wisconsin, reflecting on what it means to welcome the “other.” One of the many ideas that struck me was the assertion that we don’t need to be fluent in all cultures, but to be clear about who we are, what we believe, and how we feel. By doing this, we can be open to others in humble confidence, aware of our weaknesses and our strengths, aware of their strengths and their weaknesses.

     We were invited to reflect on our own cultures. I am a “white, female, gay, highly-educated, culturally-Catholic Lutheran from a Midwestern middle-class suburban entrepreneurial family,” and all of this influences how I show up in the world in ways that are both helpful and challenging . . . being middle-class makes it easy to succeed in a professsional setting, but I will never
fully understand the anxiety and stress of one who lives without the basic needs of food and shelter, or the sense of interdependence and willingness to pool resources that often goes along with generational poverty.

Without an understanding of my own point of view, I will by default judge others by my own yardstick, and not even be aware that I am doing so. It is easy, without this understanding, to slip into a mode of being that requires those different from us to adapt fully to us, while we stand comfortably unchanged.

      I think Paul is saying something about this in this week’s reading from Philippians when he calls us to the mind and heart of Jesus, who “ emptied himself, taking the form of a slave, being born in human likeness.”

The “emptying” is not a denial of self so much as it is a radical loving embrace of other human beings in a way that changes us all. When we can recognize our own unique biases and points of view, we can more easily open ourselves to someone else’s uniqueness, and receive them humbly as fellow children of God.

– Vicar Meagan McLaughlin

Sunday Readings

September 28, 2014: 16th Sunday after Pentecost (Lect. 26A)
Ezekiel 18:1-4, 25-32
Psalm 25:1-9
Philippians 2:1-13
Matthew 21:23-32
______________________

October 5, 2014: 17th Sunday after Pentecost (Lect. 27A)
Isaiah 5:1-7
Psalm 80:7-15
Philippians 3:4b-14
Matthew 21:33-46

Sunday’s Adult Forum: Sept. 28

“Preaching as Living Word,” part 2 of a 2-part series presented by Pastor Crippen.
     Martin Luther suggested that in preaching, God’s Word is alive and active. What does this mean for the community at worship? For the liturgy? For the preacher?

Feast of St. Francis of Assisi
Saturday, October 4 4:00 pm
Blessing of Animals

Bring your pets and your friends (and your friends’ pets!) to this annual service of blessing!

Congregation Meeting

     The semi-annual meeting of the Mount Olive congregation will be held on Sunday, October 19, after second liturgy.  Items for discussion include:
• the 2015 budget (needs congregational vote and approval)
• updates from the Visioning Committee
• a preview of on-going Stewardship work
• news from the current Capital Campaign to replenish our designated accounts and cash reserves.

Chosen: Bible Study on Thursday Evenings  

     The first Thursday Bible study series of this year began last week and runs for six weeks.

     Meeting in the Chapel Lounge from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Pr. Crippen is leading a study titled “Chosen.”  This is an exploration of the biblical witness to Abraham and Sarah and their family, with a focus on what the Bible means by “chosen people,” and how that continues in the present both as our calling and also a challenge in a pluralistic, often violent world.

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

TRUST Seeking Grocery Transportation Driver 

     TRUST, through CoAM, runs a grocery transportation program in south Minneapolis. We pick up people who are mobile but no longer drive. Pick up in south Minneapolis east of 35W and transport to Cub or Rainbow on Lake Street. Tuesday and Wednesday mornings 8:30 – about 12:30 (about 8 hours a week). Use your own vehicle – must have a van, insurance and a good driving record. Pick up 2 – 5 people. $13+ an hour plus mileage. Questions? Interested? Call Nancy at TRUST at 612-827-6159 or email her at trustinc@visi.com.

Meals for the Manuels to be Continued 

     Thanks to all who have generously signed up to bring Friday dinners to the Manuel family.  The calendar to date is filled through to November 7, with the exception of Friday, October 31.  If you can bring dinner on that date (Halloween) or on any Friday from November 14 on, please let Marilyn Gebauer know at gebauevm@bitstream.net or 612-306-8872.

    Julie’s treatment will continue for at least the next several months.  The family is very grateful for the support of prayers and meals during this difficult time.

New Member Welcome

     Mount Olive will welcome new members and associate members on Sunday, October 5, during the second liturgy.   If you are interested in becoming a member or associate member, please contact the office as soon as possible via e-mail to welcome@mountolivechurch.orgor by phone, 612-827-5919. You may also contact Pastor Crippen at church, or Andrew Andersen (763-607-1689).

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

 Book Discussion Group’s Upcoming Reads

     For their meeting on October 11, the Book Discussion group will read The Reluctant Fundamentalist, by Mohsin Hamid. For the meeting on November 8 they will read Flight Behavior, by Barbara Kingsolver.

     The 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!

Sign Up for Coffee!

     The coffee chart is in need of names of those who are willing to serve coffee on Sunday mornings after the first and second liturgies. Please take a turn and sign up!

     The chart is conveniently located in the East Assembly Room – right where coffee is served each Sunday!

Mount Olive Directory Photos Fall 2014 Schedule

     If you did not get your personal, couple or family photos taken last fall there will be a time to get your photos taken in October and included in the updated directory.

     We invite folks who have been worshiping regularly but are not members at Mount Olive to also have their photo(s) taken to include in the directory so that others can put
names and faces together.

     Below are listed the time slots available to have your photos taken. Select the day and approximate time(s) that work best for you and call or email the church office to sign up (612-827-5919/welcome@mountolivechurch.org).

     You will be contacted the week before the sessions with a specific time for your photo session. Photos will be taken in the lower level of the education building.

• Sunday, October 5 – 12:30 to 1:30 PM following the liturgy
• Wednesday, October 8 – 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM
• Thursday, October 9 – 1:00 PM to 7:00 PM
• Saturday, October 11 – 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM
• Sunday, October 12 – 12:30 to 1:30 PM following the liturgy

     Once you have signed up for a date and approximate times that work for you, we will combine all of the requests and set up a schedule to take all those requesting that specific day.
     If you have further questions please contact Paul Nixdorf (photographer) by phone at 612-296-0055, or by email to pn@paulnixdorf.com.

Empowering Learners Invites Our Support

     Recently, Ann Sponberg Peterson spoke inspiringly to the Adult Forum about “Empowering Learners,” a philanthropic project she established to provide books and computers for schools in northern Namibia. Ann invited contributions of any kind – an invitation we echo. Ann mentioned, but we want to emphasize, that any contributions we at Mount Olive make will be matched by a donor – meaning that our contributions will effectively be double what we give. We encourage you to use the envelope from the brochures Ann provided (or there are copies in the brochure rack beside the display case in the hallway) or contact one of us for a mailing address.

     This is an opportunity to provide genuinely needed and appreciated help to a significant number of children in this developing country.

 – Dwight Penas and Susan Cherwien, Adult Forum planners (with approval of the Missions Committee)

MOGAL-NOW sponsors a Mid-Century Modern Parade of Homes tour and Potluck Dinner

     Next Sunday, October 5, at 4:00 pm, MOGAL-NOW invites members of Mount Olive to visit two mid-century modern homes that are listed on the 2014 national tour of MCM homes.

     Lynn Dobson and Tony Thoe have invited us to their home at 278 Stonebridge Blvd., St Paul. Their home, along with the home of Geri and John Bjork, 316 Stonebridge Blvd, is listed as part of the Docomomo national

tour the following weekend. We get a preview tour a week early, plus dinner and great conversation.  (Visit http://www.docomomo-us.org/tour_day_2014_minnesota  to view the website about the Docomomo tour. Their home is pictured on this site).

We will gather there at 4:00 pm on October 5 to check out the interesting architecture and landscaping at their home, and also walk three homes away to Geri and John Bjork’s home. Around 5:15 pm Lynn and Tony will begin grilling hamburgers and hot dogs and we will set out our potluck items and enjoy a meal together. We will also have a short discussion about upcoming MOGAL-NOW events. The evening will end with ice cream sundaes.

     If you can join us for our Parade of Homes event please RSVP by calling the church office at 612-827-5919 or by dropping an email to welcome@mountolivechurch.org. When you email please indicate how many will be coming and also what you plan to bring for the potluck dinner that will go with hamburgers and hotdogs. Also plan to bring beverages (adult and otherwise).

     MOGAL-NOW is the new and up to date version of the MOGAL (Mount Olive Gay and Lesbian) group. MOGAL-NOW is inclusive and of course, “straight friendly”. MOGAL-NOW plans to sponsor a series of social, informative and of course fun events throughout the year bringing together the entire Mount Olive community.

Kathy Wagner Funeral  Oct. 4

     The funeral Eucharist for + Kathy Wagner + will be held on Saturday, Oct. 4, at 1:30 p.m.    
     Kathy is the daughter of Ione Wagner, a member of Mount Olive, and was on our visitation list.  There will be a lunch served after the Eucharist.
     May God grant her rest and light eternal.

Pastor’s Sabbatical

     Pastor Crippen is working with the Vestry on initial planning for his upcoming sabbatical.  The sabbatical will be from April through June of 2015, beginning on the Monday after Easter.
     At this point there aren’t many details to share, but as more is known, it will be put in the Olive Branch.  The budget being presented by the Vestry for 2015 also will reflect the costs of the sabbatical.

First Music & Fine Arts Event of the Season to be Held on October 12

     On Sunday, October 12, at 4:00 pm, Mount Olive Music & Fine Arts is pleased to present a recital by organist Aaron David Miller. He will play works of Bach, Sweelinck, Gigout, and improvisation.    
     Aaron is Music Director and Organist at House of Hope Presbyterian Church in St. Paul. He is known as one of the finest organ improvisers in the country, having won several international awards and given concerts across the nation. The improvisation for this concert will be an on-the-spot creation, using themes gathered from the audience! Don’t miss it!

     A reception will follow.

Former Vicar Neal Cannon to be Ordained

     All are cordially invited to attend the ordination of former Mount Olive Vicar, Neal Cannon (2012-13) on Reformation Sunday, October 26, 2014, at 4:00 pm.  The service will be held at First Lutheran Church in Rockford, Illinois.

     Neal has received a call to serve as Associate Pastor of Youth and Family at Christ Lutheran Church, Belvidere, Illinois.

     Please remember Neal and Mary in your prayers.

Accent on Worship

     This month I had the joy of joining ministerial colleagues from the Minneapolis Synod at the Bishop’s Theological Conference in Wisconsin, reflecting on what it means to welcome the “other.” One of the many ideas that struck me was the assertion that we don’t need to be fluent in all cultures, but to be clear about who we are, what we believe, and how we feel. By doing this, we can be open to others in humble confidence, aware of our weaknesses and our strengths, aware of their strengths and their weaknesses.

     We were invited to reflect on our own cultures. I am a “white, female, gay, highly-educated, culturally-Catholic Lutheran from a Midwestern middle-class suburban entrepreneurial family,” and all of this influences how I show up in the world in ways that are both helpful and challenging . . . being middle-class makes it easy to succeed in a professsional setting, but I will never
fully understand the anxiety and stress of one who lives without the basic needs of food and shelter, or the sense of interdependence and willingness to pool resources that often goes along with generational poverty.

Without an understanding of my own point of view, I will by default judge others by my own yardstick, and not even be aware that I am doing so. It is easy, without this understanding, to slip into a mode of being that requires those different from us to adapt fully to us, while we stand comfortably unchanged.

      I think Paul is saying something about this in this week’s reading from Philippians when he calls us to the mind and heart of Jesus, who “ emptied himself, taking the form of a slave, being born in human likeness.”

The “emptying” is not a denial of self so much as it is a radical loving embrace of other human beings in a way that changes us all. When we can recognize our own unique biases and points of view, we can more easily open ourselves to someone else’s uniqueness, and receive them humbly as fellow children of God.

– Vicar Meagan McLaughlin

Sunday Readings

September 28, 2014: 16th Sunday after Pentecost (Lect. 26A)
Ezekiel 18:1-4, 25-32
Psalm 25:1-9
Philippians 2:1-13
Matthew 21:23-32
______________________

October 5, 2014: 17th Sunday after Pentecost (Lect. 27A)
Isaiah 5:1-7
Psalm 80:7-15
Philippians 3:4b-14
Matthew 21:33-46

Sunday’s Adult Forum: Sept. 28

“Preaching as Living Word,” part 2 of a 2-part series presented by Pastor Crippen.
     Martin Luther suggested that in preaching, God’s Word is alive and active. What does this mean for the community at worship? For the liturgy? For the preacher?

Feast of St. Francis of Assisi
Saturday, October 4 4:00 pm
Blessing of Animals

Bring your pets and your friends (and your friends’ pets!) to this annual service of blessing!

Congregation Meeting

     The semi-annual meeting of the Mount Olive congregation will be held on Sunday, October 19, after second liturgy.  Items for discussion include:
• the 2015 budget (needs congregational vote and approval)
• updates from the Visioning Committee
• a preview of on-going Stewardship work
• news from the current Capital Campaign to replenish our designated accounts and cash reserves.

Chosen: Bible Study on Thursday Evenings  

     The first Thursday Bible study series of this year began last week and runs for six weeks.

     Meeting in the Chapel Lounge from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Pr. Crippen is leading a study titled “Chosen.”  This is an exploration of the biblical witness to Abraham and Sarah and their family, with a focus on what the Bible means by “chosen people,” and how that continues in the present both as our calling and also a challenge in a pluralistic, often violent world.

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

TRUST Seeking Grocery Transportation Driver 

     TRUST, through CoAM, runs a grocery transportation program in south Minneapolis. We pick up people who are mobile but no longer drive. Pick up in south Minneapolis east of 35W and transport to Cub or Rainbow on Lake Street. Tuesday and Wednesday mornings 8:30 – about 12:30 (about 8 hours a week). Use your own vehicle – must have a van, insurance and a good driving record. Pick up 2 – 5 people. $13+ an hour plus mileage. Questions? Interested? Call Nancy at TRUST at 612-827-6159 or email her at trustinc@visi.com.

Meals for the Manuels to be Continued 

     Thanks to all who have generously signed up to bring Friday dinners to the Manuel family.  The calendar to date is filled through to November 7, with the exception of Friday, October 31.  If you can bring dinner on that date (Halloween) or on any Friday from November 14 on, please let Marilyn Gebauer know at gebauevm@bitstream.net or 612-306-8872.

    Julie’s treatment will continue for at least the next several months.  The family is very grateful for the support of prayers and meals during this difficult time.

New Member Welcome

     Mount Olive will welcome new members and associate members on Sunday, October 5, during the second liturgy.   If you are interested in becoming a member or associate member, please contact the office as soon as possible via e-mail to welcome@mountolivechurch.orgor by phone, 612-827-5919. You may also contact Pastor Crippen at church, or Andrew Andersen (763-607-1689).

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

 Book Discussion Group’s Upcoming Reads

     For their meeting on October 11, the Book Discussion group will read The Reluctant Fundamentalist, by Mohsin Hamid. For the meeting on November 8 they will read Flight Behavior, by Barbara Kingsolver.

     The 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!

Sign Up for Coffee!

     The coffee chart is in need of names of those who are willing to serve coffee on Sunday mornings after the first and second liturgies. Please take a turn and sign up!

     The chart is conveniently located in the East Assembly Room – right where coffee is served each Sunday!

Mount Olive Directory Photos Fall 2014 Schedule

     If you did not get your personal, couple or family photos taken last fall there will be a time to get your photos taken in October and included in the updated directory.

     We invite folks who have been worshiping regularly but are not members at Mount Olive to also have their photo(s) taken to include in the directory so that others can put
names and faces together.

     Below are listed the time slots available to have your photos taken. Select the day and approximate time(s) that work best for you and call or email the church office to sign up (612-827-5919/welcome@mountolivechurch.org).

     You will be contacted the week before the sessions with a specific time for your photo session. Photos will be taken in the lower level of the education building.

• Sunday, October 5 – 12:30 to 1:30 PM following the liturgy
• Wednesday, October 8 – 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM
• Thursday, October 9 – 1:00 PM to 7:00 PM
• Saturday, October 11 – 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM
• Sunday, October 12 – 12:30 to 1:30 PM following the liturgy

     Once you have signed up for a date and approximate times that work for you, we will combine all of the requests and set up a schedule to take all those requesting that specific day.
     If you have further questions please contact Paul Nixdorf (photographer) by phone at 612-296-0055, or by email to pn@paulnixdorf.com.

Empowering Learners Invites Our Support

     Recently, Ann Sponberg Peterson spoke inspiringly to the Adult Forum about “Empowering Learners,” a philanthropic project she established to provide books and computers for schools in northern Namibia. Ann invited contributions of any kind – an invitation we echo. Ann mentioned, but we want to emphasize, that any contributions we at Mount Olive make will be matched by a donor – meaning that our contributions will effectively be double what we give. We encourage you to use the envelope from the brochures Ann provided (or there are copies in the brochure rack beside the display case in the hallway) or contact one of us for a mailing address.

     This is an opportunity to provide genuinely needed and appreciated help to a significant number of children in this developing country.

 – Dwight Penas and Susan Cherwien, Adult Forum planners (with approval of the Missions Committee)

MOGAL-NOW sponsors a Mid-Century Modern Parade of Homes tour and Potluck Dinner

     Next Sunday, October 5, at 4:00 pm, MOGAL-NOW invites members of Mount Olive to visit two mid-century modern homes that are listed on the 2014 national tour of MCM homes.

     Lynn Dobson and Tony Thoe have invited us to their home at 278 Stonebridge Blvd., St Paul. Their home, along with the home of Geri and John Bjork, 316 Stonebridge Blvd, is listed as part of the Docomomo national

tour the following weekend. We get a preview tour a week early, plus dinner and great conversation.  (Visit http://www.docomomo-us.org/tour_day_2014_minnesota  to view the website about the Docomomo tour. Their home is pictured on this site).

We will gather there at 4:00 pm on October 5 to check out the interesting architecture and landscaping at their home, and also walk three homes away to Geri and John Bjork’s home. Around 5:15 pm Lynn and Tony will begin grilling hamburgers and hot dogs and we will set out our potluck items and enjoy a meal together. We will also have a short discussion about upcoming MOGAL-NOW events. The evening will end with ice cream sundaes.

     If you can join us for our Parade of Homes event please RSVP by calling the church office at 612-827-5919 or by dropping an email to welcome@mountolivechurch.org. When you email please indicate how many will be coming and also what you plan to bring for the potluck dinner that will go with hamburgers and hotdogs. Also plan to bring beverages (adult and otherwise).

     MOGAL-NOW is the new and up to date version of the MOGAL (Mount Olive Gay and Lesbian) group. MOGAL-NOW is inclusive and of course, “straight friendly”. MOGAL-NOW plans to sponsor a series of social, informative and of course fun events throughout the year bringing together the entire Mount Olive community.

Kathy Wagner Funeral  Oct. 4

     The funeral Eucharist for + Kathy Wagner + will be held on Saturday, Oct. 4, at 1:30 p.m.    
     Kathy is the daughter of Ione Wagner, a member of Mount Olive, and was on our visitation list.  There will be a lunch served after the Eucharist.
     May God grant her rest and light eternal.

Pastor’s Sabbatical

     Pastor Crippen is working with the Vestry on initial planning for his upcoming sabbatical.  The sabbatical will be from April through June of 2015, beginning on the Monday after Easter.
     At this point there aren’t many details to share, but as more is known, it will be put in the Olive Branch.  The budget being presented by the Vestry for 2015 also will reflect the costs of the sabbatical.

First Music & Fine Arts Event of the Season to be Held on October 12

     On Sunday, October 12, at 4:00 pm, Mount Olive Music & Fine Arts is pleased to present a recital by organist Aaron David Miller. He will play works of Bach, Sweelinck, Gigout, and improvisation.    
     Aaron is Music Director and Organist at House of Hope Presbyterian Church in St. Paul. He is known as one of the finest organ improvisers in the country, having won several international awards and given concerts across the nation. The improvisation for this concert will be an on-the-spot creation, using themes gathered from the audience! Don’t miss it!

     A reception will follow.

Former Vicar Neal Cannon to be Ordained

     All are cordially invited to attend the ordination of former Mount Olive Vicar, Neal Cannon (2012-13) on Reformation Sunday, October 26, 2014, at 4:00 pm.  The service will be held at First Lutheran Church in Rockford, Illinois.

     Neal has received a call to serve as Associate Pastor of Youth and Family at Christ Lutheran Church, Belvidere, Illinois.

     Please remember Neal and Mary in your prayers.