Accent on Worship

Farewell

     It is with a full and grateful heart that I prepare to leave Mount Olive.

     I thank you for myself, and on behalf of all the vicars before me and yet to come who have been or will be blessed by your ministry. You have forever shaped me and how I will serve congregations.
     Saint Paul’s words to the Philippians immediately come to mind as I think of this year together: “I thank my God every time I remember you, constantly praying with joy in every one of my prayers for all of you, because of your sharing in the gospel from the first day until now. I am confident of this, that the one who began a good work among you will bring it to completion by the day of Christ.” (Phil. 1:3-6).

Of this I am certain: God is at work in you, not only for your vicars, but for this city, your neighborhoods, and you as well so that everyone might see, and hear, and know the love of God. You proclaim the gospel as you relentlessly care for one another, risk speaking the truth in love, attend to the presence of the Holy in worship, patiently journey with vicars, and live out your compassion and commitment to this neighbor-hood. Through you, by your love and your patient under-standing, Christ has revealed to me even more of his love and grace. In you, I have seen the face of God.

     For all that you have taught me, for sharing your lives and welcome, for your generosity, and for your faithfulness to the gospel, I thank you.

     The peace of Christ will be with you always, just as he has promised.

– Vicar Emily Beckering

Mary, Mother of Our Lord
Friday, August 15, 2014
Holy Eucharist at 7:00 p.m.
All are welcome.

Sunday Readings

August 10, 2014: 9th Sunday after Pentecost  (Lect. 19A)
I Kings 19:9-18
Psalm 85:8-13
Romans 10:5-15
Matthew 14:22-33
___________________
August 17, 2014: 10th Sunday after Pentecost (Lect. 20A)
Isaiah 56:1, 6-8
Psalm 67
Romans 11:1-2a, 29-32
Matthew 15:10-28

Olive Branch Summer Publication Schedule

     During the summer months, The Olive Branch is published every other week.

     The next Olive Branch will be published on Wednesday, August 20.  Information for that issue is due in to the church office by Tuesday, August 19.

     Weekly publication resumes September 3.

Neighborhood Ministry Coordinator Search Update

     The deadline for applications for the new Neighborhood Ministries Coordinator position has passed, and the search committee has narrowed the list of candidates to six people.    

     Interviews will take place during the weeks of August 11 and 17, and we hope to have a candidate to recommend to the Vestry soon after.   We are on track to have someone in place by the second half of September.  In the meantime, Connie Toavs is busy getting our fall programs off the ground.

     Thanks to the committee for such good work  (George Ferguson, Gretchen Campbell-Johnson, Sue Ellen Zagrabelny, Cynthia Prosek, Neil Herring, Kathy Thurston, Pastor Crippen, Vicar Beckering, and Lora Dundek)!

Summer A.C.T.S. Recap

     The Summer ACTS five-week program ended July 18. 23 volunteers, including 20 Mount Olive participants had the opportunity to interact with 18 community youth over the course of the program.

     Volunteers participated with youth in 6 different types of service to the community and to the church, enjoyed lunch together and shared experiences. Volunteers helped introduce youth to this church as a place of peace and acceptance and a place where community counts. A very diverse group of 10–14 year olds experienced helping to meet community needs, a new experience for many. Each youth had the opportunity to earn up to $150 during the program and most never missed a day. Youth learned to relate to adults and to each other and hopefully learned some work “soft skills.” Each left with a reference letter to present to a future potential employer.

     The program ended with a celebration meal prepared and served by volunteers. Youth, their family members, volunteers, church staff and organizations that benefitted from the youths’ work came together to share a meal, watch a power point presentation showing each of the activities, and view the art work that now brightens the undercroft. Stop down and take a look at “Seasons of the Heart.”

Transitions Support Group Continues

     Any who would like an opportunity to discuss concerns and receive support are welcome to attend the Transitions Support group. Their next meeting is on Wednesday, August 27, at 6:30 in the Youth Room. Amy Cotter and Cathy Bosworth will act as facilitators.

     Since our last 4-week session concluded in May, the group members decided they wanted to continue meeting, as needed.  Since May, we will have met on an every six-week basis.
     All are welcome and encouraged, especially by those who have been meeting for support regularly, to participate whenever we meet.

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

Book Discussion Group’s Upcoming Reads

     For their meeting on August 9, the Book Discussion group will read, All the King’s Men (restored edition), by Robert Penn Warren.  For the September 13 meeting, they will discuss, The Woman Behind the New Deal, by Kirstin Downey.

Food and Personal Items Needed!

     Remember your contributions to the food shelf during these summer months.  You may use your blue envelopes and designate “food shelf” as the recipient.  Non-perishable food items may be placed in the shopping cart in the coat room.

      We are also receiving donations of small toiletries (like the complimentary items provided by hotels and motels) for distribution to homeless persons, who have little space for such items. Bring your unused/unopened toiletries to the designated basket in the coat room.

2014-2015 Vestry

     New Vestry members were installed at the morning liturgy on Sunday, July 20.  The current Vestry is now as follows:

President – Lora Dundek
Vice President – Robert Gotwalt
Secretary – Peggy Hoeft
Treasurer – Kat Campbell-Johnson
Congregational Life – Sandra Pranschke
Education – John Holtmeier
Evangelism – Andrew Andersen
Neighborhood Ministries – Carol Austermann
Missions – Judy Hinck
Property – Brenda Bartz
Stewardship – Donn McLellan
Worship – Al Bipes
Youth – Amy Thompson

Diaper Depot in Need of Year-Round Funding

     Several years ago, as the Neighborhood Ministries Committee considered ideas for a program which would directly help families in our neighborhood, they decided that a service to provide low cost diapers to area families would be a practical and much-needed service.  They held a fundraiser with a “name that program” contest, and so the Diaper Depot was born. This has been a very popular program with neighborhood families for a number of years. Two elderly grandparents who are raising their three young grandchildren recently said, with tears in their eyes, “You don’t know how much this helps!”

     The funds to provide this much-needed service are part of our church budget, but until now, the Diaper Depot has never been open in the summer. Additional funds are needed to provide this service to our neighborhood families year-round.

     The blue Missions envelope from the offering envelope mailing has a blank line under “local missions.” Please consider making a gift to the Diaper Depot (by writing “Diaper Depot” on that line), or by using an envelope designated for this. You may also want to consider becoming a sustaining member by providing regular weekly, monthly, or yearly gifts to this important ministry (thanks to those who are already doing this!). We would also welcome volunteers to work in the Diaper Depot. It is open on Tuesdays from 4:30-6:30, and on Thursdays from 1:30-3:30.  Please contact Connie Toavs at church if you would like to volunteer!

     This neighborhood need does not take a break for the summer – and neither should we!  Please be generous, as the need continues throughout the year. Thanks in advance for your generosity.

Calling All Worship Assistants!

     The Servant Schedule for the 4th quarter of 2014 (October-December) will be published at the beginning of September 2014.

     The deadline for submitting requests to me is August 15, 2014. Please email your requests to me at
peggyrf70@gmail.com.

Thanks,
– Peggy Hoeft

Our Going Out and Our Coming In: Staff Summer Schedules

• Cantor Cherwien is on vacation August 1-6, and August 21-27.
• Administrative Assistant Cha Posz will be on vacation August 11-15.

Summer Ensembles Forming Now!

     Cantor Cherwien is assembling two ensembles to sing for summer worship.

     A men’s ensemble will meet, rehearse and sing for the liturgy on August 10, and a women’s ensemble will meet, rehearse, and sing for the liturgy on August 17.

     In each case, the plan is to meet at 8:00 that morning and rehearse until 9:15, singing for the morning liturgies at 9:30.

     Come and lend your voice to the choir(s)!

Help Us Keep in Contact!

     Please remember to contact the church office with your updated address, phone number, cell phone number, or email address!

     Help us stay in touch and keep you in touch with each other.

A Note from Former Vicar Neal

Dear Friends at Mount Olive,
     I am writing to let you know that after graduating from Luther Seminary in St. Paul in May of 2014, I have received a call as Associate Pastor of Youth and Family Ministry at Christ Lutheran Church in Belvidere, Illinois.  I am extremely excited to join in this ministry that God has called me to.  Mount Olive played a major role in bringing me to this point.

     Serving as your vicar was one of the most rewarding times in my life.  I truly loved preaching, teaching, and working with the community at Mount Olive. Even more, I was blessed by your presence in my life.  Not only did you all go out of your way to welcome me to your church, but you also shaped me as a future pastor.  You encouraged my preaching by giving careful feedback.  You taught me what it means to truly love all people.  You became my friends and family during my time there.  I am especially grateful for the hard-working staff and internship committee at Mount Olive who mentored me and taught me what it means to work in a church as the Body of Christ.  Thank you for your love and care!

     I am extremely appreciative for the gifts of love you have shared with me.  You have shaped my faith and affirmed my call to pastoral ministry.  I can never pay you back, but know that I am eternally grateful for the gift Christ has given me in you.

In Christ,
Neal Cannon

Neal’s ordination will be on October 26, at 4:00 p.m., in Illinois. The place is yet to be determined. Installation will be at Christ Lutheran Church, Belvidere, Illinois, on November 16.

And Another Note …

To the people of Mount Olive:
Thank you for the faithful prayers for healing for my cousin Janet Prokosh.  She has been on our list of concerns for many months following a serious brain bleed that left her with many significant challenges.  Due to the diligent care of many wonderful people she has recovered significantly and life is returning to normalcy.  Thanks be to God.

– Kathy Thurston

Share a Meal with the Manuels

     While Julie is undergoing chemotherapy, Mount Olive members and friends are helping make life a little easier for their family by delivering meals on Fridays.

     Since the TWIG notice fir went out, response has been great; meals are now scheduled for delivery through October 10.   If you would like to schedule meal delivery after that date, please contact Marilyn Gebauer at: gebauevm@bitstream.net or by phone:  612-306-8872.

     It is suggested meals be dropped off between 5:00 – 6:00 p.m. for this family of three.  Their home is in St. Louis Park – directions and other information will be shared when a delivery date is scheduled.
     If you cannot reach Marilyn, a second contact is Cathy Bosworth.  She can be reached at 612-708-1144 or by email to marcat8447@yahoo.com.

Bread for the World Summer Newsletter

     Those who are interested in reading Bread For the World’s summer newsletter, Legacy of Hope, are encouraged to find it on the bulletin board outside the Neighborhood Ministries office and take a look. (This issue features a nice photo of former Neighborhood Ministries Coordinator, Donna Neste, who serves on their national board.)

Capital Campaign News

     We have raised nearly half of our goal for the capital campaign to be used toward fully funding our designated funds and establishing a “rainy day” cash reserve.  

     We would like to wrap up this campaign by the end of the year – or at least have all pledges in by then.   If you haven’t yet indicated that you’ll give, please do so as soon as you are able.  

     Just send a note to the office, or use the green pledge card (extra pledge cards are available in the office).    This campaign is important to the secure financial footing of Mount Olive.   Thanks for your generosity.

Church Library News

     The current display in the church library includes a few books that come from the Inspirational section and you are invited to stop in soon to view these (or other areas which may interest you) as follows:

• LET THE EARTH BRING FORTH — a moving story of faith regenerated and a marriage restored, by Mary Warren
• SMALL BLESSINGS — by Celestine Sibley
• THE TOUCH OF THE EARTH by Jean Hersey
• WHY DOESN’T SOMEBODY DO SOMETHING — what 20 women are doing about such areas as government, education, leadership, decency and morality – by Daisy Hepburn
• THE DIVINE YES by E. Stanley Jones
• THE JESUS STYLE by Gayle D. Erwin
• TRAVELING LIGHT – releasing the burden you were never intended to bear, the Promise of Psalm 23, by Max Lucado
• OLDER LOVE by local author, artist and illustrator Warren Hanson

     I have mentioned before the special non-profit project called Little Free Libraries, a movement begun in 2009 by Todd Bol and Rick Brooks of Wisconsin, when Bol built a model of a one-room schoolhouse as a tribute to his mother, a former teacher who loved reading.  He filled it with books and put it in his front yard, with the great idea of “take a book, return a book.” The marvelous growth of this special inspiration includes at least 1,000 Little Free Libraries in Minnesota and the idea has spread as far as Ukraine, Italy, Japan, Pakistan, and Brazil. (That is why an article in the Star Tribune and also featured on TV – last July 11, detailing a Little Free Library located in the South Minneapolis area that was torched, infuriated so many of us that love good books and the whole idea of sharing that idea on a free, “come as you can and share as you will” kind of basis).

     Make it a point to look for one of these special places in or near your own neighbor-hood and stop by often to visit before the snow flies.  If you get a chance, thank the person or family who provided that Little Free Library in front of or very nearby their own home.

     I will close this article by repeating a great quote from the Reading is Fundamental organization: “Book People Unite — Read to a child today and spark a lifetime of ambition!”

– Leanna Kloempken

Thank you!

     One of the joys of serving as pastor of this congregation is that there are several members of the parish who are able and willing to preside (and even preach) in my absence, making it so much easier to take vacation and really rest.  Thank you to the Revs. Beth Gaede, Art Halbardier, and Rob Ruff for presiding on several Sundays this summer in my stead, and special thanks to Art, who also preached.  I always hear good reports, and know that things are being well handled while I’m gone.  Thanks are also due to Vicar Beckering for taking care of pastoral care in my absence and all the other things she does.  It’s good to be back, but even better not to have worried about anything while I was on vacation.

– Pr. Crippen

Accent on Worship

Farewell

     It is with a full and grateful heart that I prepare to leave Mount Olive.

     I thank you for myself, and on behalf of all the vicars before me and yet to come who have been or will be blessed by your ministry. You have forever shaped me and how I will serve congregations.
     Saint Paul’s words to the Philippians immediately come to mind as I think of this year together: “I thank my God every time I remember you, constantly praying with joy in every one of my prayers for all of you, because of your sharing in the gospel from the first day until now. I am confident of this, that the one who began a good work among you will bring it to completion by the day of Christ.” (Phil. 1:3-6).

Of this I am certain: God is at work in you, not only for your vicars, but for this city, your neighborhoods, and you as well so that everyone might see, and hear, and know the love of God. You proclaim the gospel as you relentlessly care for one another, risk speaking the truth in love, attend to the presence of the Holy in worship, patiently journey with vicars, and live out your compassion and commitment to this neighbor-hood. Through you, by your love and your patient under-standing, Christ has revealed to me even more of his love and grace. In you, I have seen the face of God.

     For all that you have taught me, for sharing your lives and welcome, for your generosity, and for your faithfulness to the gospel, I thank you.

     The peace of Christ will be with you always, just as he has promised.

– Vicar Emily Beckering

Mary, Mother of Our Lord
Friday, August 15, 2014
Holy Eucharist at 7:00 p.m.
All are welcome.

Sunday Readings

August 10, 2014: 9th Sunday after Pentecost  (Lect. 19A)
I Kings 19:9-18
Psalm 85:8-13
Romans 10:5-15
Matthew 14:22-33
___________________
August 17, 2014: 10th Sunday after Pentecost (Lect. 20A)
Isaiah 56:1, 6-8
Psalm 67
Romans 11:1-2a, 29-32
Matthew 15:10-28

Olive Branch Summer Publication Schedule

     During the summer months, The Olive Branch is published every other week.

     The next Olive Branch will be published on Wednesday, August 20.  Information for that issue is due in to the church office by Tuesday, August 19.

     Weekly publication resumes September 3.

Neighborhood Ministry Coordinator Search Update

     The deadline for applications for the new Neighborhood Ministries Coordinator position has passed, and the search committee has narrowed the list of candidates to six people.    

     Interviews will take place during the weeks of August 11 and 17, and we hope to have a candidate to recommend to the Vestry soon after.   We are on track to have someone in place by the second half of September.  In the meantime, Connie Toavs is busy getting our fall programs off the ground.

     Thanks to the committee for such good work  (George Ferguson, Gretchen Campbell-Johnson, Sue Ellen Zagrabelny, Cynthia Prosek, Neil Herring, Kathy Thurston, Pastor Crippen, Vicar Beckering, and Lora Dundek)!

Summer A.C.T.S. Recap

     The Summer ACTS five-week program ended July 18. 23 volunteers, including 20 Mount Olive participants had the opportunity to interact with 18 community youth over the course of the program.

     Volunteers participated with youth in 6 different types of service to the community and to the church, enjoyed lunch together and shared experiences. Volunteers helped introduce youth to this church as a place of peace and acceptance and a place where community counts. A very diverse group of 10–14 year olds experienced helping to meet community needs, a new experience for many. Each youth had the opportunity to earn up to $150 during the program and most never missed a day. Youth learned to relate to adults and to each other and hopefully learned some work “soft skills.” Each left with a reference letter to present to a future potential employer.

     The program ended with a celebration meal prepared and served by volunteers. Youth, their family members, volunteers, church staff and organizations that benefitted from the youths’ work came together to share a meal, watch a power point presentation showing each of the activities, and view the art work that now brightens the undercroft. Stop down and take a look at “Seasons of the Heart.”

Transitions Support Group Continues

     Any who would like an opportunity to discuss concerns and receive support are welcome to attend the Transitions Support group. Their next meeting is on Wednesday, August 27, at 6:30 in the Youth Room. Amy Cotter and Cathy Bosworth will act as facilitators.

     Since our last 4-week session concluded in May, the group members decided they wanted to continue meeting, as needed.  Since May, we will have met on an every six-week basis.
     All are welcome and encouraged, especially by those who have been meeting for support regularly, to participate whenever we meet.

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

Book Discussion Group’s Upcoming Reads

     For their meeting on August 9, the Book Discussion group will read, All the King’s Men (restored edition), by Robert Penn Warren.  For the September 13 meeting, they will discuss, The Woman Behind the New Deal, by Kirstin Downey.

Food and Personal Items Needed!

     Remember your contributions to the food shelf during these summer months.  You may use your blue envelopes and designate “food shelf” as the recipient.  Non-perishable food items may be placed in the shopping cart in the coat room.

      We are also receiving donations of small toiletries (like the complimentary items provided by hotels and motels) for distribution to homeless persons, who have little space for such items. Bring your unused/unopened toiletries to the designated basket in the coat room.

2014-2015 Vestry

     New Vestry members were installed at the morning liturgy on Sunday, July 20.  The current Vestry is now as follows:

President – Lora Dundek
Vice President – Robert Gotwalt
Secretary – Peggy Hoeft
Treasurer – Kat Campbell-Johnson
Congregational Life – Sandra Pranschke
Education – John Holtmeier
Evangelism – Andrew Andersen
Neighborhood Ministries – Carol Austermann
Missions – Judy Hinck
Property – Brenda Bartz
Stewardship – Donn McLellan
Worship – Al Bipes
Youth – Amy Thompson

Diaper Depot in Need of Year-Round Funding

     Several years ago, as the Neighborhood Ministries Committee considered ideas for a program which would directly help families in our neighborhood, they decided that a service to provide low cost diapers to area families would be a practical and much-needed service.  They held a fundraiser with a “name that program” contest, and so the Diaper Depot was born. This has been a very popular program with neighborhood families for a number of years. Two elderly grandparents who are raising their three young grandchildren recently said, with tears in their eyes, “You don’t know how much this helps!”

     The funds to provide this much-needed service are part of our church budget, but until now, the Diaper Depot has never been open in the summer. Additional funds are needed to provide this service to our neighborhood families year-round.

     The blue Missions envelope from the offering envelope mailing has a blank line under “local missions.” Please consider making a gift to the Diaper Depot (by writing “Diaper Depot” on that line), or by using an envelope designated for this. You may also want to consider becoming a sustaining member by providing regular weekly, monthly, or yearly gifts to this important ministry (thanks to those who are already doing this!). We would also welcome volunteers to work in the Diaper Depot. It is open on Tuesdays from 4:30-6:30, and on Thursdays from 1:30-3:30.  Please contact Connie Toavs at church if you would like to volunteer!

     This neighborhood need does not take a break for the summer – and neither should we!  Please be generous, as the need continues throughout the year. Thanks in advance for your generosity.

Calling All Worship Assistants!

     The Servant Schedule for the 4th quarter of 2014 (October-December) will be published at the beginning of September 2014.

     The deadline for submitting requests to me is August 15, 2014. Please email your requests to me at
peggyrf70@gmail.com.

Thanks,
– Peggy Hoeft

Our Going Out and Our Coming In: Staff Summer Schedules

• Cantor Cherwien is on vacation August 1-6, and August 21-27.
• Administrative Assistant Cha Posz will be on vacation August 11-15.

Summer Ensembles Forming Now!

     Cantor Cherwien is assembling two ensembles to sing for summer worship.

     A men’s ensemble will meet, rehearse and sing for the liturgy on August 10, and a women’s ensemble will meet, rehearse, and sing for the liturgy on August 17.

     In each case, the plan is to meet at 8:00 that morning and rehearse until 9:15, singing for the morning liturgies at 9:30.

     Come and lend your voice to the choir(s)!

Help Us Keep in Contact!

     Please remember to contact the church office with your updated address, phone number, cell phone number, or email address!

     Help us stay in touch and keep you in touch with each other.

A Note from Former Vicar Neal

Dear Friends at Mount Olive,
     I am writing to let you know that after graduating from Luther Seminary in St. Paul in May of 2014, I have received a call as Associate Pastor of Youth and Family Ministry at Christ Lutheran Church in Belvidere, Illinois.  I am extremely excited to join in this ministry that God has called me to.  Mount Olive played a major role in bringing me to this point.

     Serving as your vicar was one of the most rewarding times in my life.  I truly loved preaching, teaching, and working with the community at Mount Olive. Even more, I was blessed by your presence in my life.  Not only did you all go out of your way to welcome me to your church, but you also shaped me as a future pastor.  You encouraged my preaching by giving careful feedback.  You taught me what it means to truly love all people.  You became my friends and family during my time there.  I am especially grateful for the hard-working staff and internship committee at Mount Olive who mentored me and taught me what it means to work in a church as the Body of Christ.  Thank you for your love and care!

     I am extremely appreciative for the gifts of love you have shared with me.  You have shaped my faith and affirmed my call to pastoral ministry.  I can never pay you back, but know that I am eternally grateful for the gift Christ has given me in you.

In Christ,
Neal Cannon

Neal’s ordination will be on October 26, at 4:00 p.m., in Illinois. The place is yet to be determined. Installation will be at Christ Lutheran Church, Belvidere, Illinois, on November 16.

And Another Note …

To the people of Mount Olive:
Thank you for the faithful prayers for healing for my cousin Janet Prokosh.  She has been on our list of concerns for many months following a serious brain bleed that left her with many significant challenges.  Due to the diligent care of many wonderful people she has recovered significantly and life is returning to normalcy.  Thanks be to God.

– Kathy Thurston

Share a Meal with the Manuels

     While Julie is undergoing chemotherapy, Mount Olive members and friends are helping make life a little easier for their family by delivering meals on Fridays.

     Since the TWIG notice fir went out, response has been great; meals are now scheduled for delivery through October 10.   If you would like to schedule meal delivery after that date, please contact Marilyn Gebauer at: gebauevm@bitstream.net or by phone:  612-306-8872.

     It is suggested meals be dropped off between 5:00 – 6:00 p.m. for this family of three.  Their home is in St. Louis Park – directions and other information will be shared when a delivery date is scheduled.
     If you cannot reach Marilyn, a second contact is Cathy Bosworth.  She can be reached at 612-708-1144 or by email to marcat8447@yahoo.com.

Bread for the World Summer Newsletter

     Those who are interested in reading Bread For the World’s summer newsletter, Legacy of Hope, are encouraged to find it on the bulletin board outside the Neighborhood Ministries office and take a look. (This issue features a nice photo of former Neighborhood Ministries Coordinator, Donna Neste, who serves on their national board.)

Capital Campaign News

     We have raised nearly half of our goal for the capital campaign to be used toward fully funding our designated funds and establishing a “rainy day” cash reserve.  

     We would like to wrap up this campaign by the end of the year – or at least have all pledges in by then.   If you haven’t yet indicated that you’ll give, please do so as soon as you are able.  

     Just send a note to the office, or use the green pledge card (extra pledge cards are available in the office).    This campaign is important to the secure financial footing of Mount Olive.   Thanks for your generosity.

Church Library News

     The current display in the church library includes a few books that come from the Inspirational section and you are invited to stop in soon to view these (or other areas which may interest you) as follows:

• LET THE EARTH BRING FORTH — a moving story of faith regenerated and a marriage restored, by Mary Warren
• SMALL BLESSINGS — by Celestine Sibley
• THE TOUCH OF THE EARTH by Jean Hersey
• WHY DOESN’T SOMEBODY DO SOMETHING — what 20 women are doing about such areas as government, education, leadership, decency and morality – by Daisy Hepburn
• THE DIVINE YES by E. Stanley Jones
• THE JESUS STYLE by Gayle D. Erwin
• TRAVELING LIGHT – releasing the burden you were never intended to bear, the Promise of Psalm 23, by Max Lucado
• OLDER LOVE by local author, artist and illustrator Warren Hanson

     I have mentioned before the special non-profit project called Little Free Libraries, a movement begun in 2009 by Todd Bol and Rick Brooks of Wisconsin, when Bol built a model of a one-room schoolhouse as a tribute to his mother, a former teacher who loved reading.  He filled it with books and put it in his front yard, with the great idea of “take a book, return a book.” The marvelous growth of this special inspiration includes at least 1,000 Little Free Libraries in Minnesota and the idea has spread as far as Ukraine, Italy, Japan, Pakistan, and Brazil. (That is why an article in the Star Tribune and also featured on TV – last July 11, detailing a Little Free Library located in the South Minneapolis area that was torched, infuriated so many of us that love good books and the whole idea of sharing that idea on a free, “come as you can and share as you will” kind of basis).

     Make it a point to look for one of these special places in or near your own neighbor-hood and stop by often to visit before the snow flies.  If you get a chance, thank the person or family who provided that Little Free Library in front of or very nearby their own home.

     I will close this article by repeating a great quote from the Reading is Fundamental organization: “Book People Unite — Read to a child today and spark a lifetime of ambition!”

– Leanna Kloempken

Thank you!

     One of the joys of serving as pastor of this congregation is that there are several members of the parish who are able and willing to preside (and even preach) in my absence, making it so much easier to take vacation and really rest.  Thank you to the Revs. Beth Gaede, Art Halbardier, and Rob Ruff for presiding on several Sundays this summer in my stead, and special thanks to Art, who also preached.  I always hear good reports, and know that things are being well handled while I’m gone.  Thanks are also due to Vicar Beckering for taking care of pastoral care in my absence and all the other things she does.  It’s good to be back, but even better not to have worried about anything while I was on vacation.

– Pr. Crippen

Accent on Worship

Running the Race

     “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith” (2 Tim. 4:7).

     In the 1991 World Championships, Derek Redmond and the British team won gold in the 4×400 meter relay. At the 1992 Olympic Games in Barcelona, Derek posted the fastest time of the first round in the 400 meters and went on to win his quarter-final. That all changed, however, in the semi-final.

     When Derek rounded the back-straight, 250 meters from the finish line, he tore his hamstring and fell to the ground in pain. Medics rushed over to him, but Derek stood up and began to limp around the track in order to finish the race.  As Derek fought through the pain and disappointment to complete the race, a man emerged from the crowd and joined him on the track: the man was his father. Jim Redmond refused security’s insistence to leave the track and instead held his son up and walked alongside him, supporting him until they finished the race together.

     The Triune God does the same for us. This Sunday, we will celebrate the festival of St. Peter and St. Paul, as is our custom at Mount Olive when a festival falls on a Sunday in the green season. From Paul’s second letter to Timothy, we will hear the promise that as we run the race of following Christ where the Spirit leads us and as we fight the good fight of loving in Jesus’ name, we are not alone. The Triune God is with us, standing by us, strengthen-ing us, and speaking through us so that we might proclaim the gospel in word and deed. As the security guards could not hold back Jim Redmond from his son, nothing can separate us from God’s love for us in Jesus Christ.

     In this race, we are not promised that we will be saved from pain, be named as the winner, or receive the standing ovation that welcomed Derek as he crossed the finish line. Instead, we like Paul, like Peter, and like our Lord Jesus Christ will be poured out as a libation in order to reveal the love of God (2 Tim. 4:6). We are, however, promised with absolute certainty that just as was done for Peter, for Paul, and for all the saints, the Triune God will stand by us and give us strength to run the race that is the Christian faith so that through us, the gospel might be fully proclaimed.

     So run on, dear Saints; we do not race alone.

– Vicar Emily Beckering

Sunday Readings

June 29, 2014: Saints Peter and Paul, Apostles
Acts 12:1-11
Psalm 87:1-3, 5-7
2 Timothy 4:6-8, 17-18
John 21:15-19
___________________

July 6, 2014: 4th Sunday after Pentecost (Lect. 14A)
Zechariah 9:9-12
Psalm 145:8-14
Romans 7:15-25a
Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30

Olive Branch Summer Publication Schedule

     During the summer months, The Olive Branch is published every other week.

     The next Olive Branch will be published on Wednesday, July 9.  Information for that issue is due in to the church office by Tuesday, July 8.

Transitions Support Group Continues

     Participants in the recent 4 -week life transitions support group have decided to continue meeting but on a less regular basis.  They invite others who would like an opportunity to discuss concerns and receive support to join them.

     The next meeting is on Wednesday, July 16, at 6:30 in the Youth Room. Amy Cotter and Cathy Bosworth will act as facilitators.  If you have questions, please call Cathy at 612-708-1144 or email her at marcat8447@yahoo.com.

School Supplies Drive

     Though summer has just begun, for the Neighborhood Ministries Committee it means  that it’s time to look forward to the beginning of school!

     Neighborhood Ministries is collecting school supplies for about 100 neighborhood children. These supplies will be distributed at the August 2 Community Meal. While this is an item in our budget, generous contributions from the Mount Olive community will help to provide as many supplies as possible.

     A Neighborhood Ministries Committee member will be on hand during coffee hour on Sundays, July 13, 20, and 27 to receive your donations.

     Thanks for offering your support to this vital neighborhood ministry!

The Bargain Box

     Saturday, August 2 will be a busy day at Mount Olive! We will be helping to get neighborhood children ready for school year with Bargain Box fitting children with new school clothes and distributing school supplies during the Community Meal. We are looking for donations of cash, gently used children’s clothes (no adult clothes, please), school supplies, and backpacks.

     If you have time to help with the meal, or assist with clothing or school supplies, please plan to come to the August Community Meals!

     Please note: Neighborhood Ministries is looking for backpacks, new and gently-used, to distribute at the August Community Meal. We want children to be ready for school! Stay tuned for more information.

– Neighborhood Ministries Committee

Food and Personal Items Needed!

      Now that school is out for the summer, many children who receive free or reduced-price lunches at school will often go hungry.  Please keep up or increase your monetary and food contributions during the summer months.  You may use your blue envelopes and designate “food shelf” as the recipient.  Food contributions may be placed in the shopping cart in the coat room.

      In our summer travels, let’s remember that the complimentary toiletries provided by hotels and motels are ideal for homeless people who have little space for such items. Most of the time, we are charged for these items as a part of the payment for accommodations.  Please bring your unused toiletries to the designated basket in the coat room.

     Know that your donations help provide basic needs, as Christ would have us do.

Book Discussion Group’s Upcoming Reads

     For their meeting July 12, the Book Discussion group will read, All Over but the Shoutin’, by Rick Bragg; and for the August 9 meeting, All the King’s Men (restored edition), by Robert Penn Warren.

Neighborhood Ministries Coordinator Position Description Now Available

     The position description for the Coordinator of Neighborhood Ministries and Outreach has been completed and is available by contacting the church office or on the Mount Olive website.
     
     Congregational members who are interested and meet the qualifications are encouraged to apply for the position.  Thanks to the search committee for working hard on this step.  The next step will be to screen applicants and host interviews.  We hope to have a new Coordinator in place by the end of September.

     Committee members are  Kathy Thurston and Sue Ellen Zagrabelny (Neighborhood Ministries Committee), Cynthia Prosek and Neil Hering (Visioning Lead Committee), George Ferguson and Gretchen Campbell-Johnson (at-large), Pastor Crippen, Vicar Beckering, and Lora Dundek (ex-officio).

Every Church a Peace Church July Meeting

     The ECAPC July potluck supper meeting will be held on   Monday, July 21, 6:30 p.m., at St. Albert the Great Catholic Church, 29th St. & 32nd Ave. S., Minneapolis. (612-724-3643, www.saintalbertthegreat.org.)

     The program for the July meeting will be a presentation and discussion led by John Keller, Executive Director of the Immigrant Law Center of Minnesota (ILCM). His presentation will be “Immigration Reform:  A Christian Response.”

     John Keller has been the Executive Director ILCM since 2005; prior to that he had been a staff attorney at ILCM for six years.  In 2007, Keller was named Attorney of the Year by Minnesota Lawyers, and he received the Minnesota Council of Nonprofits 2007 Advocacy Award on behalf of ILCM for work he led in response to immigration raids in 2006.

     All interested are cordially invited to attend – and to bring friends!

Mount Olive T-Shirts

     Gail Nielsen will sell Mount Olive t-shirts for the next two Sundays, following the morning liturgy.

     The shirts are $7 each and are available in a variety of colors (almost all of the liturgical colors! Pick one for your favorite season of the church year!)

     Stop and see Gail on Sunday and get your very own!

Summer A.C.T.S. Thanks

     Many thanks to all who have volunteered so far with the Neighborhood Ministries Summer A.C.T.S. program! You have made a difference!

     We could still use one more volunteer on Tuesday and Thursday, July 8 and 10. If you can spare a little time for this very worthwhile project, please call Connie Toavs at church (612-827-5919).

    The last day of  Summer A.C.T.S. will be July 18.

Accent on Worship

Gratitude

Sunday’s activities here every week don’t just happen. It’s astounding how many are involved in plans, preparations, implementation, etc. Everything from planning each service, preparing, proofing and printing the bulletin, cleaning, scheduling the worship leaders for each service, Altar Guild’s preparations, Sacristan setting up and arranging the space, vestments made ready, coffee hosts preparing food, adult education planned and presented, the Godly Play leaders trained, and parents communicated with – the list can go on and on, and no doubt someone is thinking “Hey what about what I do?” We need to thank God for all of this.

     And of course, there are the musicians to add to that list. Most of the time, music the choir sings began its learning process several weeks prior. We began learning last Sunday’s music on April 30.

     I am feeling gratitude for the group of people who sing in the choir. They make a special trip in every week, and spend close to two hours in rehearsal preparing for what they contribute to our liturgy.

     Many of them also are very involved in other committees and volunteer work at church and some weeks are here many days of the week. In addition to its weekly schedule of Wednesday rehearsals and Sunday
participation, this year the choir had many “extra-curricular” events in which they gladly participated: several wedding liturgies, a City-wide Hymn Festival at Central Lutheran, four Music and Fine Arts events (two procession services, the Conference on Liturgy Hymn Festival, and two full-days for Bach Tage. During Holy Week we joke about putting cots in the choir room.

     Another group for whom I’m feeling special gratitude is those who prepare food for so many events. Receptions, meals, breakfasts – it’s a huge amount of work preparing the food, and the less-fun-to-do clean-up afterwards. On one day this past month one crew prepared and cleaned up a breakfast, community meal, and a wedding reception – all in one day!

     I hope you join me in thanking God for all that they, and everyone who helps implement what we do on Sundays.

     Why do we do all of this? We do it because God means that much to us. God’s loving grace evokes a desire to “go out of our way” and add inconvenience to our schedules, so that we, too, can share our sense of gratitude, praise, and sense of Grace as God’s people in this place.

     Indeed: “Thanks be to God!”

– Cantor David Cherwien

Sunday Readings

June 15, 2014: The Holy Trinity
Genesis 1:1—2:4a
Psalm 8
2 Corinthians 13:11-13
Matthew 28:16-20
___________________

June 22, 2014: 2nd Sunday after Pentecost (Lect. 12A)
Jeremiah 20:7-13
Psalm 69:7-10 [11-15] 16-18
Romans 6:1b-11
Matthew 10:24-39

Mount Olive Church Picnic June 22

     Mount Olive will have a Church Picnic this year on Sunday, June 22, from 3:00-7:00 p.m.  John and Patsy Holtmeier welcome all to their (spacious!) backyard at 601 Drillane Road in Hopkins.

     Games and hilarity for kids and adults will be held from 3:00-5:00 p.m., including a Bean Bag Tournament, Zip Line Run, lawn games, and more.  A potluck picnic will begin around 5:00 p.m., and the day will close with a hymn sing on the lawn.  All are invited!  Sign-up sheets for attendance, food preparation, set up, etc. will be at church for one more Sunday, June 15.

     In the event of rain on the 22nd, a modified picnic will be held that day in the Undercroft from 5:00-7:00 p.m.

Olive Branch Summer Publication Schedule

     During the summer months, The Olive Branch is published every other week.

     The next Olive Branch will be published on Wednesday, June 25.  Information for that issue is due in to the church office by Tuesday, June 24.

Vicar learns New Role

     Al Bipes, director of the Worship Committee, has been working with Vicar Beckering to learn and be able to do the duties of sacristan at one of our regular Sunday Eucharists.  Sunday, June 15, they will switch roles, with Al taking the role of Eucharistic Minister and Vicar Beckering serving as sacristan.  The hope is that this could be a new piece of training for our vicars going forward, near the end of their year with us, to better understand all the preparation and work needed for our liturgy to flow smoothly.  It is also the hope that through this learning, our vicars can leave here with some tools they can use to help members of their congregations take ownership and responsibility for preparing and leading worship themselves, and help them develop and train strong lay leadership in worship, especially in places where it has not previously been a practice.

Transitions Support Group Continues

     Members who found the recent 4 week life transitions support group helpful have decided to continue meeting but on a less regular basis.  They invite others who would like an opportunity to discuss concerns and receive support to join them.

     The next meeting is on Wednesday, July 16, at 6:30 in the Youth Room. Amy Cotter and Cathy Bosworth will act as facilitators.  If you have questions, please call Cathy at 612-708-1144 or email marcat8447@yahoo.com.

New Vicar Assigned

     Mount Olive has received our assignment for next year’s vicar, the seminary intern who will serve with us.  Her name is Meagan McLaughlin, and she and her wife Karen live in south Minneapolis.  She grew up in Edina, and has worked as a school teacher and in social outreach at the Basilica, among other things.  She is a student at United Seminary, but taking her Lutheran core classes at Luther Seminary and seeking ordination in the ELCA.  Vicar Beckering’s last Sunday among us will be August 17, and Vicar McLaughlin will begin the next week.  When she arrives, much more in the way of introduction will be forthcoming.

Book Discussion Group’s Upcoming Reads

For their meeting on June 14, the book discussion group will read, The Orphan Master’s Son, by Adam Johnson; and for the meeting on July 12, they will read, All Over but the Shoutin’, by Rick Bragg.

Sign Up Now for Summer A.C.T.S. ! (Adults, Children Teaming to Serve)  June 16 – July 17

Thank you to those who have signed up to participate in Summer A.C.T.S.   Twenty youth are signed up and ready to begin work next week.  Sixteen adults and three teenagers have signed up for shifts but there is still room for a few more.  The most urgent needs are Monday and Wednesday, June 16 and l8; Tuesday and Thursday June 24 and 26; Monday and Wednesday June 30 and July 2; Tuesday and Thursday July 1 and 3; and Tuesday and Thursday July 8 and 10.  Please call Connie at the church (612-827-5919) or e mail her at connietoavs@comcast.net if you can help.

Getting to Know You …

John Wall:  Born in Virginia, Minnesota, baptized at Zion Lutheran (Suomi Synod), confirmed in the Presbyterian Church, confirmed (again) at Gethsemane Lutheran Church, I left for Gustavus to earn a degree in church music. Shortly before graduating, I was confirmed (3rd time) in the Episcopal Church, and married my first wife in Christ Chapel. After a year at Seabury-Western Episcopal Seminary, Evanston, we moved to the Cities where I began service as choir director /organist from Redeemer Lutheran in Minneapolis, Good Samaritan Methodist and St. Stephen’s Episcopal in Edina, St. Luke’s Roman Catholic and Edgcumbe Presbyterian in St. Paul, to Emerson UCC in Richfield and elsewhere. In the 1990’s I also worked for Gould and Schultz Pipe Organs. In 1988 my wife Carol Anne and I married at St. Clement’s Episcopal, St. Paul. We live in St. Paul with our two Chinese daughters, Sarah, 15, and Rachel, 12, each baptized at an Easter Vigil at St. Mary’s Episcopal, St. Paul. Carol Anne works at Securian and as adjunct writing professor at Metropolitan State. My love of psalmody and the Benedictine Rule brought me to this year’s Conference on Liturgy and my first Sunday morning at Mount Olive – I just keep coming back. Having ended 50 years on the organ bench, composing music and working on liturgy, God put me in a pew among you. My spiritual aliveness comes also from service to my fellow addicts now at the international level on the Literature Committee, so from liturgy to literature I am filled with gratitude.

The Bargain Box

     Saturday, August 2 will be a busy day at Mount Olive! We will be helping to get neighborhood children ready for school year with Bargain Box fitting children with new school clothes and distributing school supplies during the Community Meal. We are looking for donations of cash, gently used children’s clothes (no adult clothes, please), school supplies, and backpacks.

     If you have time to help with the meal, or assist with clothing or school supplies, please plan to come to the August Community Meals!

Please note: Neighborhood Ministries is looking for backpacks, new and gently-used, to distribute at the August Community Meal. We want children to be ready for school! Stay tuned for more information.

– Neighborhood Ministries Committee

Food and Personal Items Needed!

      Now that school is out for the summer, many children who receive free or reduced-price lunches at school will often go hungry.  Please keep up or increase your monetary and food contributions during the summer months.  You may use your blue envelopes and designate “food shelf” as the recipient.  Food contributions may be placed in the shopping cart in the coat room.

      In our summer travels, let’s remember that the complimentary toiletries provided by hotels and motels are ideal for homeless people who have little space for such items. Most of the time, we are charged for these items as a part of the payment for accommodations.  Please bring your unused toiletries to the designated basket in the coat room.

     Know that your donations help provide basic needs, as Christ would have us do.

Calling All Graduates!

     On Sunday, June 22, we will recognize and remember in prayer those who are graduating this spring … but we need to know who you are! If you are graduating from high school, college, or graduate school (or if your family member is), please call the church office with your name and the name of the school, so that your name can be included in the prayers for that day.
 
     We would love to celebrate your achievement with you!