Accent on Worship

Wrestling

     I was a wrestler in high school, which ended up being about the only athletic endeavor I showed much promise for.  It suited both my build and my mind.  You see, it turns out that wrestling really is as much a mental exercise as a physical one.  The strategy of which moves to make, of understanding what your opponent is doing, of anticipating moves with your own moves, all this makes wrestling an intellectual challenge.

     But it’s also a spiritual one of sorts.  For me, since I started wrestling much later than most on the team, early on I would be wrestling against people with far more experience, and a real challenge was not to give up emotionally when it seemed as if my opponent was so much better than I.  My cousin Jason, who was a very good state-level wrestler, was always reminding me that I needed to remember that not wanting to give up was critical to not actually giving up.

     Sunday we hear the odd and mysterious story of Jacob wrestling a stranger (an angel? God? a man?) on the banks of a river.  The text isn’t ever clear about the exact identity of his opponent, but Jacob ends up believing he was wrestling with God.  Jacob persists all night long, never giving up, and clinging in the end so that he might demand a blessing.  It was that inner spiritual strength that kept him from giving up until he felt he was heard, was recognized, was blessed.  The lectionary combines this story with Jesus’ parable of persistent prayer from Luke 18, and the parallels are obvious.

     Sometimes I think, though, that we’re reticent to wrestle with God in prayer.  Though we believe that the Triune God is the creator of all that is, seen and unseen, though we are confident that the Son of God has given us permission to pray, to ask, to seek, we sometimes act as if God’s not able to handle the depths of our struggle.  We hold back when we are angry with God, when we don’t understand things, when we are afraid, as if God can’t handle our truth, our need, our pain.

     We give up too soon, I think.  Jesus suggests, as Jacob experienced, that we can bring everything we have and truly wrestle with God if we need to.  He suggests that God is big enough to handle the depths of all our pain and suffering and confusion and anger, as well as our joy and praise.  This is a precious thing, this invitation to engage Almighty God in prayer and not give up, seeking blessing and hope from God in all things, without hesitation, without fear that we won’t be heard.

     This is the Good News our Lord Jesus gives us: that the Triune God’s love and care for us is so broad, so deep, so high, that we can fully engage in this relationship, wrestling along with praising, never fearing that we will be sent away, confident that we can fully be heard and known.  It would be a tremendous gift if we were able to trust Jesus on this, and wrestle until we feel we’ve been heard, until we hear what God’s blessing for us truly is.  Then this relationship Jesus has given us with the Trinity will truly be real, and life-giving, and, as it turns out, a blessing.

– Joseph

Sunday’s Adult Forum 

• October 20: “The State of the Lutheran – Roman Catholic Dialogue,” presented by The Rev. Lowell Almen.

Notice of Congregation Meeting

     The Fall semi-annual congregation meeting of Mount Olive Lutheran Church will be held after second liturgy this Sunday, October 20, 2013, in the Undercroft.  Included on the agenda will be a vote to approve the congregational budget for 2014, and updates on the Neighborhood Ministries Visioning Process and the Capital Campaign approved at the Spring congregation meeting.  If you are a member of Mount Olive, please plan to attend.

Be a Part of Something Special!

     It’s difficult to commit an hour and a half of your time every week to something like Way to Goals Tutoring, one of Mount Olive’s vital programs to the neighborhood.  However, you can still be a part of it by signing up to bring a snack and beverage for 14 students and nine tutors one night this year.  The snack chart is posted on the Neighborhood Ministries bulletin board downstairs next to Donna Neste’s office. Just sign the chart for the date that you would like to bring your treats and have them at church before 7:00 p.m. on that date.  If you have any questions, call Donna, 612/827-5919.

Photo Selection for Pictorial Directory

     Elisabeth Hunt will be available between liturgies  this Sunday to assist with the selection of your photo for the new Mount Olive Pictorial Directory.

     If you do not have computer access or have had difficulty logging on to the website to choose the photo you want included in the Pictorial Directory, this is your opportunity to complete the task.  Please bring the information instruction sheet that you received when you had your photos taken.

John Weaver Recital This Sunday

     Mount Olive Music and Fine Arts presents one of America’s foremost concert organists in  a brilliant program of “Toccatas: Scary and Joyous” on the Schlicker organ at Mount Olive, Sunday, October 20 at 4 pm. He will be joined in this recital by his wife, flautist Marianne Weaver, in two pieces dedicated to this performing duo.

     Here is an excerpt of a recent New York Times review of a John Weaver concert:  ‘John Weaver plays everything as though to its manner born, as though he had the inside track to each composer’s individuality and had no need to work his way over the barriers or through the channels of stylistic attitudes that serve lesser performers as stepping stones … Exaggerated?  Well, go and hear a Weaver recital before you decide.”

     John Weaver was head of the organ department at The Julliard School until his recent retirement, and previously held the same position at Curtis Institute, Philadelphia. For many years, he was Music Director at Madison Avenue Presbyterian Church, New York. Early in his career, he founded the Bach Cantata Series at Holy Trinity Lutheran, New York, which still continues successfully.

     John and Marianne Weaver frequently perform together, to high critical acclaim. This is a program not to be missed. Mark your calendar to attend, and tell friends about this as well.

Update from the Treasurer

     September was a financially challenging month.  Our giving did not cover our costs, and even though we had five Sundays in September, the monthly giving totals were 10% lower than the same month in 2012.

     In order to pay our obligations in September (salaries/benefits, building maintenance, insurance, etc.), it was necessary to borrow $10,000 from our line of credit.  Although it is unknown what the interest on that loan will cost us, in past years we have spent an average of $1,350.00 on interest from this type of borrowing.  This is an expense that we would rather use for our ministry.

     There is positive news in our financial picture as well.  Overall giving for the year is 2.7% ahead of last year.  In past years we have needed to borrow against our credit line earlier in the year.  Typically giving trends upward in the fall and we anticipate that this will happen again.

     Please prayerfully consider this information as you make decisions about your offerings to the church in the coming weeks.  I will continue to provide updates on the current finances in the Olive Branch and leave copies of the monthly Treasurer’s report in the office for those who are interested in more detail.
– Kat Campbell Johnson, Treasurer



The Great TRUST Auction

     On October 26, TRUST will have both a live and silent auction. There will be live music and dinner and great desserts. Plan to come and join the fun and support TRUST, which sponsors CoAM, Meals on Wheels, TRUST Youth, and many other ministries and services.

     The event starts at 6:00 pm, and tickets are available from Carol Austermann; $20/adults, $15/seniors, and $5/kids under 10.

     This event will take place at Lake Harriet Methodist Church, 4901 Chowen Ave. S. in Minneapolis. All are welcome.

Book Discussion Group

     Mount Olive’s Book Discussion group meets on the second Saturday of each month at 10 a.m. at church. For Nov. 9, they will read Parade’s End, by Ford Madox Ford, and for December 14, The Optimist’s Daughter, by Eudora Welty.

How Long, O Lord?
Thursday Evening Bible Study Begins Nov. 7

     In Psalm 13, David cries out, “How long, O Lord? Will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me?” No doubt David is not the only one to ask God these questions, for here is not a household untouched by pain or suffering. Thursday evenings starting on Nov. 7, Vicar Beckering will lead a topical study on the Biblical witness to suffering and who God is for us in the midst of that suffering. This Bible study series will meet Thursday evenings in the Chapel Lounge from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., and run for six weeks, with the exception of Thanksgiving. Each gathering will begin with a light supper. All are welcome!

Galatians Study Becketwood  

     Pr. Crippen is offering a second run of the current six week Galatians Bible study at Becketwood Cooperative on six Tuesday afternoons. This study examines one of Paul’s most important and influential letters.

     The idea behind offering a second time for this study is to provide a time during the day for this study (currently running on Thursday evenings at Mount Olive), and also to offer it in a place where it might be easier for some to attend than getting to church. The session on Oct. 22 will be in the lower level of the chapel at 2:00 p.m. Note: This is not only for Mount Olive members, nor is it only for those who live at Becketwood. It was just thought that this is a relatively central location, and having an afternoon meeting is better for some who don’t like driving in the evenings.  All who are interested in this study are welcome! Becketwood is at 4300 W River Parkway in Minneapolis.

Congregational Care Committee Seeks Your Response

     The art of giving and accepting care was the forum topic during the coffee hour on Sunday, October 13.  Please consider providing your feedback by taking a minute to think about the following questions.

     Are you aware of an unmet need for care and support at Mount Olive?
     What kind of support do you wish was available for the need you identified?
     Do you have particular skills or experience that you would like to offer to future congregational care and support initiatives?

     Please call or email your responses to:  Marilyn Gebauer, Peggy Hoeft, Warren Peterson,  or Cathy Bosworth.  E-mail address may be found in the Mount Olive Directory.

Attention Worship Assistants!

     It’s that time again.  In early November I will begin working on the Servant Schedule for the first quarter of 2014.   Please contact me (peggyrf70@gmail.com) by November 1 with scheduling requests for January – March 2014.
– Peggy Hoeft 

People to Know: The October Our Saviour’s Meal Team!

     A big “THANK YOU” to each of the folks who helped make the October meal at Our Savior’s Homeless Center happen. They include:
• Beth Sawyer, who gathered the young people of Mount Olive (and their parents) to slice and chop and prep and pack many elements of the meal;
• Tim Pipkorn and Samantha Lucas, who cooked and served the meal;
• Naomi Peterson, for her monthly home-made cookies (Yum!) and Halloween treats;
• Donn and Bonnie McClellan, who each month prepare lunches for the residents.

     Month after month the men and women who live at Our Savior’s say how grateful they are for the special attention that goes into the meals from Mount Olive. Thanks to the October team, and all those who help in this ministry throughout the year.

A Word of Thanks

     Thank you to the families who helped prep the meal for Our Savior’s Housing on October 13 (here are some fun photos of the event!).  The next service event for families will be on November 16 at 11:30 am.  Please bring your family to help make Thanksgiving cards for Community Emergency Services, share the noon community meal with our neighbors and help clear tables afterwards.  Wear your yellow Mount Olive shirts if you have one.  Contact Beth Sawyer with questions and to RSVP for this event.  651-434-0666  mikebethsawyer78@gmail.com

Accent on Worship

Participation in the Body of Christ

     I’ve always said that within the body of Christ there are no spectators.  Paul spoke about that eloquently (1 Cor. 12) when he reminded us that the hand cannot say to the foot “I have no need of you.”  When there are members of the body that do not participate, the body is said to be sick.

     So it is in worship, as we re-member the body of Christ, our liturgies are a participation in that body. Christ is fully present as the body comes together in his name.  There can be no spectators.

     Mount Olive “gets” that in a way that many places today do not. Faith here is truly embodied in the Sunday liturgy.
     So that begs the question; what does it mean to participate? How do we define participation?

     One of my pet peeves is the all-too-common reference to worship as an experience (the “Worship Experience” is talked about ad nauseam in the church-growth movement).  Worship is not an experience like going to a movie is an experience.  Worship is an encounter… with a risen Lord who shows up and is fully present.  There is no body to speak of in a movie theater.  Which seems to suggest it is the body itself which defines our participation in worship.

     Here’s the thing: in a culture where it is politically correct to be politically correct… we all, liberal and conservative alike, are rather fundamentalist in our thinking.  The ability to be discerning, a sign of maturity, is the first casualty of a fundamentalist culture. And so there was a time (the corrective swing of history) when we thought that the worshipping assembly must participate in everything … everybody-sing-everything-all-the-time…  But do we not also participate with our ears and our devotion?

     Fortunately, the Church’s practice has more recently reclaimed the historic Lutheran pattern of alternatim—sometimes the men sing, sometimes it is the women, or the choir or a cantor. Sometimes we even let the organ proclaim the word to us—all the while fully participating, whether by lips or by heart.  And our music and liturgy is full enough, and expansive enough to hold up the entire body—the joyful as well as the depressed, the healthy as well as the sick, in music that is both joyful and pensive, loud and soft, fast and slow, new and old.  Each of us has need of all the other members to make this work, and in our willing participation we come to meet the one whose body we share—in whose death and resurrection we, too, will be fully participants.

– William Beckstrand, Interim Cantor

Sunday’s Adult Forum 

• October 13: A presentation by the Congregational Care Committee
• October 20: “The State of the Lutheran – Roman Catholic Dialogue,” presented by The Rev. Lowell Almen

Notice of Congregation Meeting

     The Fall semi-annual congregation meeting of Mount Olive Lutheran Church will be held after second liturgy on October 20, 2013, in the Undercroft.  Included on the agenda will be a vote to approve the congregational budget for 2014, and updates on the Neighborhood Ministries Visioning Process and the Capital Campaign approved at the Spring congregation meeting.  If you are a member of Mount Olive, please plan to attend.

Budget Preview Session

     There will be a 2014 budget preview session after the second liturgy this Sunday, October 13.  Copies of the proposed budget are included with this issue of the Olive Branch (either as an attachment to the same email or as an insert). They will also be available for this session, so bring your coffee and come with any questions that you have about the budget.  Members of the Vestry will be available to answer questions.

Final Days for Photos!

     Sunday, October 13 is the final day to have your photos taken for the new Mount Olive Online Pictorial Directory.

     To make your appointment you can do one of the following:
1. Sign up on Sunday during the education hour and coffee hours.
2. Call Bonnie McLellan at 952/452-2049.
3. E-mail Elisabeth Hunt at elisabeth@hunt.org or Marty Hamlin at marcat8447@yahoo.com.

     If you have special circumstances or needs that require attention, please call the church office at 612/827-5919, and leave a message for Andrew Andersen or Sandra Pranschke.

Freedom of the Christian: Bible Study on Thursday Evenings

     The first Thursday Bible study series of this year began last Thursday, Sept. 19, and it 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 of the book of Galatians, one of Paul’s most vital and important letters.  As usual, there will be a light supper when we begin.  All are welcome to this study opportunity!

Galatians Study Begins at Becketwood October 15

     Pr. Crippen will offer a second run of the current six week Galatians Bible study at Becketwood Cooperative on six Tuesday afternoons. This study examines one of Paul’s most important and influential letters.

     The idea behind offering a second time for this study is to provide a time during the day for this study (currently running on Thursday evenings at Mount Olive), and also to offer it in a place where it might be easier for some to attend than getting to church. The first session will be in the East Dining Room at 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 15.  There will be a couple of the six sessions that will be in the chapel at Becketwood, so announcement will be made of those locations. Note: This is not only for Mount Olive members, nor is it only for those who live at Becketwood. It was just thought that this is a relatively central location, and having an afternoon meeting is better for some who don’t like driving in the evenings.  All who are interested in this study are welcome! Becketwood is at 4300 W River Parkway in Minneapolis.

John Weaver Recital October 20

     Mount Olive Music and Fine Arts presents one of America’s foremost concert organists in  a brilliant program of “Toccatas: Scary and Joyous” on the Schlicker organ at Mount Olive, Sunday, October 20 at 4 pm. He will be joined in this recital by his wife, flautist Marianne Weaver, in two pieces dedicated to this performing duo.

     Here is an excerpt of a recent New York Times review of a John Weaver concert:  ‘John Weaver plays everything as though to its manner born, as though he had the inside track to each composer’s individuality and had no need to work his way over the barriers or through the channels of stylistic attitudes that serve lesser performers as stepping stones … Exaggerated?  Well, go and hear a Weaver recital before you decide.”

     John Weaver was head of the organ department at The Julliard School until his recent retirement, and previously held the same position at Curtis Institute, Philadelphia. For many years, he was Music Director at Madison Avenue Presbyterian Church, New York. Early in his career, he founded the Bach Cantata Series at Holy Trinity Lutheran, New York, which still continues successfully.

     John and Marianne Weaver frequently perform together, to high critical acclaim. This is a program not to be missed. Mark your calendar to attend, and tell friends about this as well.

Book Discussion Group

     Mount Olive’s Book Discussion group meets on the second Saturday of each month at 10 a.m. at church. For October 12 they will discuss The Picture of Dorian Gray, by Oscar Wilde, and for Nov. 9, Parade’s End, by Ford Madox Ford.

Mount Olive Greeting Cards

     A set of three greeting cards with photographs taken around Mount Olive Lutheran Church have been designed by Paul Nixdorf and are available for purchase at church on Sunday mornings.

     Single cards are priced at $2.50 each.  For quantity of five or more the purchase price is $1.75 each.  Pricing covers production costs. The cards are being made available through sponsorship by the Evangelism Committee.

Follow Mount Olive on Facebook and Twitter

     Have you liked Mount Olive on Facebook yet? Are you following us on Twitter? If not, we encourage you to! We are now using these sites to spread the word about events, sermons, Bible studies, and other things happening at Mount Olive. Find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MountOliveMpls or on Twitter at twitter.com/MountOliveMpls.

The Great TRUST Auction

     On October 26, TRUST will have both a live and silent auctions. There will be live music and dinner and great desserts. Plan to come and join the fun and support TRUST, which sponsors CoAM, Meals on Wheels, TRUST Youth, and many other ministries and services.

     The event starts at 6:00 pm, so you will have time to look over the auction items. Tickets are available from Carol Austermann; $20/adults, $15/seniors, and $5/kids under 10.

     This event will take place at Lake Harriet Methodist Church, 4901 Chowen Ave. S. in Minneapolis.
     See you there!

Peace Not Walls Trip to the Holy Land for Young Adults

     The coordinator for the Peace Not Walls Campaign and the program director for young adult ministry for the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) would like to invite young adults ages 18-30 to apply for the Peace Not Walls Young Adult trip to the Holy Land, January 3-17, 2014. This is an opportunity to travel to Palestine and Israel on an experiential learning trip with other young adults for the purpose of learning how to lead trips to the Holy Land for young adults in the future. They are especially looking for young adults in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area.

     Peace Not Walls is a campaign of the ELCA that was adopted in 2005 to urge members, congregations, synods and the churchwide organization to stand for justice in the Holy Land. The campaign focuses on accompaniment, awareness-building, and advocacy. This partnership with the program director for young adult ministry has been developed to create a network of young adults who lead trips for their peers to the Holy land with the express purposes of:

• Accompanying local Lutherans and Christians in Israel and Palestine;
• Educating participants about the conflict in Israel and Palestine;
• Sharing the religious, political and social history of the region;
• Deepening faith and identity of travelers as they build relationships with global neighbors;
• Connecting with the ELCA’s efforts through the Peace Not Walls Campaign by practicing accompaniment, raising awareness and engaging in advocacy;
• Building a base of individuals who not only travel but return home to engage their local contexts in issues of peace and justice.

The Basics
When: January 3 – 17, 2014 (Jan 3-6 in Jordan and Jan 7-17 in Palestine and Israel)

What will we do in Palestine and Israel? We will visit key sites in and around Jerusalem and seek to build relationships with local Lutherans and other Christians engaged in the pursuit of peace in the Holy Land. We will connect with Palestinians and
Israelis working for peace and justice. Preparation for the trip will begin with an orientation to learn about the historical, religious, socio-political, and cultural context of the region. The trip will also provide space for leadership development, advocacy connections, and community organizing in participants’ local context.

Where will we stay? Lutheran World Federation guest house on the Mount of Olives in Jerusalem.

Cost: The cost of lodging, food, and travel in country will be covered by the ELCA. The young adult will be responsible for their airfare.

What are my responsibilities? Everyone who joins the trip will be expected to lead one or two trips of young adults from their region to the Holy Land in the next two years and facilitate local engagement with the Peace Not Walls campaign.

     And, a bonus! We will visit Jordan and participate in the dedication of the new ELCJHL (Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land) Baptismal site along the Jordan River.
     We are looking forward to working with you on this exciting opportunity! The deadline for applications is October 15, 2013.

Accent on Worship

     During the celebration of the Eucharist in worship I sometimes do not sing but simply watch those going to the feast.  It becomes clear to me that we are many but numbered as one when we eat and drink the body and blood of Christ.  Our worship together reminds me that we are God’s beloved called to love God’s creation and each other with a passion and trust that is as deep as the center of the earth.  Perhaps this is what St. Paul meant in Colossians when he addressed the letter to the faithful brothers and sisters who are ‘in Christ.’

     Our life together in Christ also brings me to the depth of despair due to the beauty and love I see and experience in worship, especially when we pass the peace to one another, but which is NOT lived out right here in Minneapolis and over the creation.

What I see and experience driving our culture is a community defined as ME – WRITTEN LARGE.  I hear it in conversations as I walk the skyways and hear people in discussions which clearly reveal the lack of listening to each other but each swaying and persuading the other to their viewpoint or conviction.  I see it on ads on TV selling us stuff, working to convince us that only with this stuff will we be happy.

     I believe one of the “sins” we have fallen victim to, is greed, turning us from depth and purpose and power for good to looking out for number one, filling our “barns’ with as much as possible and overfilling them, thus deforming human desire into an insatiable drive for more.  Increasingly when a small part of the people of God has the greatest wealth and the majority have the leftovers, the community created by God for life and joy erodes.

     The ramifications of this are all around us which includes enormous spiritual hunger, for many today have no spiritual center or community which holds them in love and care but rather urges them on to self-satisfaction, self-preservation, and above all financial security.  Trust in God’s care is foreign and meaningless to many today.

     As I watch worshippers going to receive the food of God, I see trust in God’s care, seeking the common good, making of community, freedom of vulnerability, reveling in God’s ceaseless generosity, and trusting this even in the face of adversity.

     Mount Olive is in a Visioning Process and Pastor Crippen has repeatedly used this phrase – “We must pray about this.”  As God’s people we are a praying lot from whom come ideas, and direction and hope.  I hope we can discuss this as part of asking “How does Mount Olive live in the world today and what is our mission/vision/hope/joy?

– Elizabeth Beissel

Sunday’s Adult Forum

• October 6: “What to Say When You Don’t Know What to Say,” All of us have encountered conversations in which the news we hear is so tragic or shocking that we just don’t know how to respond. Allen Dundek, Chaplain and Clinical Pastoral Educator, will talk about the skill and art of compassionate listening from psychological and theological perspectives.

Book Discussion Group

     Mount Olive’s Book Discussion group meets on the second Saturday of each month at 10:00 a.m. at church. For the October 12 meeting they will discuss The Picture of Dorian Gray, by Oscar Wilde, and for November 9, Parade’s End, by Ford Madox Ford.

Feast of St. Francis of Assisi
Blessing of Animals
This Friday, October 4 + 7:00 pm

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

New Members To Be Received This Sunday

     New members will be received on October 6, 2013, during the second liturgy.  A welcome brunch will follow the liturgy for new members, their guests, and Mount Olive members. If you are interested in becoming a member of Mount Olive, please contact the church office by phone (612/827-5919) or by email to welcome@mountolivechurch.org. You may also speak with Andrew Andersen, Director of Evangelism, or contact him at andrewstpaul@gmail.com or 763-607-1689.   Pastor Crippen is also available to discuss membership. He can be reached at 612.827.5919 or via e-mail at pastor@mountolivechurch.org.

Notice of Congregation Meeting

     The Fall semi-annual congregation meeting of Mount Olive Lutheran Church will be held after second liturgy on October 20, 2013, in the Undercroft.  Included on the agenda will be a vote to approve the congregational budget for 2014, and updates on the Neighborhood Ministries Visioning Process and the Capital Campaign approved at the Spring congregation meeting.  If you are a member of Mount Olive, please plan to attend.

Budget Preview Session
     There will be a 2014 budget preview session after the second liturgy on Sunday, October 13.  Copies of the proposed budget will be available a week before this session, so bring your coffee and come with any questions that you have about the budget.  Members of the Vestry will be available to answer questions.

Freedom of the Christian: Bible Study on Thursday Evenings

     The first Thursday Bible study series of this year began last Thursday, Sept. 19, and it 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 of the book of Galatians, one of Paul’s most vital and important letters.  As usual, there will be a light supper when we begin.  All are welcome to this study opportunity!

Mount Olive Greeting Cards

     A set of three greeting cards with photographs taken around Mount Olive Lutheran Church have been designed by Paul Nixdorf and are available for purchase at church on Sunday mornings.

     Single cards are priced at $2.50 each.  For quantity of five or more the purchase price is $1.75 each.  Pricing covers production costs. The cards are being made available through sponsorship by the Evangelism Committee.

Theology on Tap

     Theology on Tap is a group at Mount Olive that meets once a month at local bars/restaurants to enjoy a good beverage and dialogue about faith and life (no preparation or book reading is required, only your personal insight).  Everyone is welcome to join in the conversation!  Contact Lisa Nordeen (brwgrl@gmail.com) if you would like to join us or have questions about Theology on Tap!

 Upcoming Event Details:
Where: Mosaic Cafe, 3019 Minnehaha Avenue just south of East Lake Street
When: Thursday, October 3, 7:30-9:30pm
Discussion Topic:  Prayer – scripted, contemplative, spontaneous…
Facebook: Mount Olive Theology on Tap – “Like” the page to get more updates!

Follow Mount Olive on Facebook and Twitter

     Have you liked Mount Olive on Facebook yet? Are you following us on Twitter? If not, we encourage you to! We are now using these sites to spread the word about events, sermons, Bible studies, and other things happening at Mount Olive. Find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MountOliveMpls or on Twitter at twitter.com/MountOliveMpls.

The Snack Chart is Up

     Way to Goals Tutoring Program has begun for this year, and the snack chart is up for those who would like to support our tutoring program by signing up to bring a snack and beverage for 25 students and tutors.  You will find the chart on the Neighborhood Ministries bulletin board by Donna Neste’s office downstairs.  If you have any questions, feel free to call Donna at church 612-827-5919.

Final Ten Days for Photos!

     Sunday, October 13 is the final day to have your photos taken for the new Mount Olive Online Pictorial Directory.

     To make your appointment you can do one of the following:
1. Sign up on Sunday during the education hour and coffee hours.
2. Call Bonnie McLellan at 952/452-2049.
3. E-mail Elisabeth Hunt at elisabeth@hunt.org or Marty Hamlin at marcat8447@yahoo.com.

     If you have special circumstances or needs that require attention, please call the church office at 612/827-5919, and leave a message for Andrew Andersen or Sandra Pranschke.

     SMILE!

Twin Cities Choirs Stand with the Minnesota Chorale

     The Minnesota Chorale, Kantorei, National Lutheran Choir, Oratorio Society of Minnesota, The Singers, and VocalEssence will offer preview repertoire from their upcoming 2013-14 Seasons in this free concert to be held this Sunday, October 6 at 4:00 p.m. at Central Lutheran Church in Minneapolis.

     This concert is an expression of support for the Minnesota Chorale, whose 2012-13 and 2013-14 Season(s) have been impacted by the lockout at the Minnesota Orchestra. All of the participating choirs are donating their services. The Kantorei, the National Lutheran Choir, the Oratorio Society of Minnesota, The Singers, and VocalEssence will join the Minnesota Chorale in a program that features snapshot performances of selections from each choir’s 2013-14 season. A goodwill offering will be taken to offset costs Minnesota Chorale has incurred in producing the event.

TRUST Auction to be Held October 26

     TRUST’s annual Auction will take place on Saturday, October 26, at 6 pm at Lake Harriet Methodist Church, 4901 Chowen Ave., Minneapolis. Plan to come to this annual event for the fun, the food, the goodies and the great entertainment!. Tickets are $20 in advance or with reservations; $15 for seniors 65+ /youth; $5 for those under age 10; and $25 at the door. All proceeds support the programs and ministries of TRUST: Meals on Wheels, Chore Program, Parish Nursing, CoAM Life Enrichment, TRUST Youth and much more. For reservations, call 612-827-6159 or email trustinc@visi.com.

Metro Lutheran Annual Dinner

     All are cordially invited to attend the Metro Lutheran Annual Dinner, to be held on Sunday, October 13, at Mount Olivet Lutheran Church (50th & Knox Ave., Minneapolis). Social Time begins at 4:30 pm and Dinner and Program follow beginning at 5:30 pm. Keynote Speaker for the evening will be Tom Hegg, and the program includes the presentation of the 2013 Gold Pen Award to the Rev. Dr. Rolf Jacobson.

     Tickets for this event are $25 each ($15/student), and deadline for reservations is October 5. For additional information, please call the Metro Lutheran office at 612/230-3281.

Accent on Worship

     I often disagree with the way my fundamentalist Christian friends think, but there is one concept they embrace that I do also.  That concept is the idea of a spiritual war going on, unseen by the living.  The Readings for St. Michael and All Angels makes this abundantly clear.  Jesus himself states in the Gospel how he saw “Satan fall from heaven like a flash of lightning.”  The angel who appeared to Daniel in the First Reading speaks of his struggle to reach him because of a twenty-one day spiritual battle in which he was assisted by Michael in order to get through with his message from God. And the Second Reading is about the spiritual war to end all spiritual wars in the Book of Revelation, in which Michael and his angels finally take down the dragon for good.

     Evil is manifested in our physical world – war, hunger, poverty, crime, dishonesty, corruption, oppression, self-centeredness, greed, hurtful and violent behavior toward one another- but it begins in the spiritual world.  I have witnessed so many good intentions go bad because of the spiritual evil to which human beings fall prey.  Marxism, for instance, is at its basis a vision of fairness and sustainability for all people, those who labor and those who rule.  But, because of the weakness of human desire to control the behavior of others, it turned into an oppressive and violent form of government in Communism.  How could such an idealistic vision of fairness and justice go so bad?  How can such an idealistic vision of  freedom and self-determination in Capitalism go so wrong, with one percent of the population of the United States ending up owning sixty percent of the wealth leaving forty-five million citizens living in poverty?  The only answer I could ever come up with is that evil is a spiritual force, ready to twist up good reasoning, attack good intentions, and cater to our weaknesses to have our way.

     Though we know through Scripture that evil will eventually lose, we can also be assured that evil will not have its way with us today, because of our salvation in Jesus.  Our relationship with God through prayer and reliance on Jesus is the most powerful way to win our battles with evil.  I believe that our nation is finding another way to resolve the civil war in Syria, because of the power of prayer.  Pope Francis’ call for a public gathering to pray and meditate for a peaceful solution to the Syrian crisis turned the corner, but we must continually pray for peace in Syria and other hot spots. We must continually pray for human needs, the sustainability of our planet, and each other.  Faith and prayer are the most powerful weapons we possess in the spiritual battle against evil.

– Donna Neste

Sunday’s Adult Forum

• September 29: “Julian of Norwich’s Vision: Transforming Love,” presented by Brad Holt
• October 6: “What Can I Say?” presented by Allen Dundek

Feast of St. Francis of Assisi
Blessing of Animals
Friday, October 4 + 7:00 pm
Bring your pets and your friends (and your friends’ pets!) to this annual service of blessing.

New Members To Be Received October 6

     At Mount Olive we welcome people who are at many different points in their Christian faith journey.  That welcome is expressed in any number of ways.  Some folks need a place to worship coming and going quietly. We provide that.  Some seek friendship within a community of Christian believers with whom they share common faith convictions. We work at doing that. Some need to observe for a while to see if what is said about and within this community of faith is reality. That is just fine with us. Some desire a place where they can more fully share their faith and live lives of service.  That is Mount Olive, too.  To have a place to officially call my church” is important for many people of faith. Mount Olive is that.  What works for you is fine with us.

      If you are seeking a place to call your church home, we welcome you at Mount Olive.  New members will be received on October 6, 2013, during the second liturgy.  A welcome brunch will follow the liturgy for new members, their guests, and Mount Olive members.  

     If you are interested in becoming a member at Mount Olive Lutheran Church, please contact the church office at welcome@mountolivechurch.org or 612.827.5919. You may also speak with Andrew Andersen, Director of Evangelism, or contact him at andrewstpaul@gmail.com or 763-607-1689.   Pastor Crippen is also available to discuss membership. He can be reached at 612.827.5919 or via e-mail at pastor@mountolivechurch.org.

Follow Mount Olive on Facebook and Twitter

     Have you liked Mount Olive on Facebook yet? Are you following us on Twitter? If not, we encourage you to! We are now using these sites to spread the word about events, sermons, Bible studies, and other things happening at Mount Olive. Find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MountOliveMpls or on Twitter at twitter.com/MountOliveMpls.

Way to Goals Tutoring to Begin Soon

     Tuesday, October 1st is the first day of our school year program, Way to Goals Tutoring, and we meet most Tuesday evenings after that until the last Tuesday in May.  We begin at 7:00 p.m. with an hour of tutoring followed by a half hour activity and snack time, and ending at 8:30 p.m.

     If you would like to help as a volunteer tutor of one or two elementary school students, call Donna Neste at Mount Olive for all the details.

 Freedom of the Christian: Bible Study on Thursday Evenings

     The first Thursday Bible study series of this year began last Thursday, Sept. 19, and it 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 of the book of Galatians, one of Paul’s most vital and important letters.  As usual, there will be a light supper when we begin.  All are welcome to this study opportunity!

Te Deum laudamus: Let us praise God: A Hymn Festival Celebration in Honor of Paul Westermeyer

     Join Master of Sacred Music graduates as they come together to thank Paul, wish him well in his retirement, and celebrate the gift of music. This hymn festival will be held this Saturday, September 28, at 4:00 p.m. at the Chapel of the Incarnation in the Olson Campus Center at Luther Seminary, St. Paul.

     Featured participants will be musicians James Bobb, Catherine Rodland, John Ferguson, and Mark Sedio, with reflections by Susan Palo Cherwien. Plan to come and sing, and bring your friends!

Mount Olive Greeting Cards

     A set of three greeting cards with photographs taken around Mount Olive Lutheran Church have been designed by Paul Nixdorf. Cards will be available for purchase at church on Sunday mornings.

     Single cards are priced at $2.50 each.  For quantity of 5 or more the purchase price is $1.75 each.  Pricing covers production costs. The cards are being made available through sponsorship by the Evangelism Committee.

Book Discussion Group
     Mount Olive’s Book Discussion group meets on the second Saturday of each month at 10:00 a.m. at church. For the October 12 meeting they will discuss The Picture of Dorian Gray, by Oscar Wilde, and for November 9, Parade’s End, by Ford Madox Ford.

Theology on Tap

     Theology on Tap is a group at Mount Olive that meets once a month at local bars/restaurants to enjoy a good beverage and dialogue about faith and life (no preparation or book reading is required, only your personal insight).  Everyone is welcome to join in the conversation!  Contact Lisa Nordeen (brwgrl@gmail.com) if you would like to join us or have questions about Theology on Tap!

Upcoming Event Details:
Where: Mosaic Cafe, 3019 Minnehaha Avenue just south of East Lake Street
When: Thursday, October 3, 7:30-9:30pm
Discussion Topic:  Prayer – scripted, contemplative, spontaneous…
Facebook: Mount Olive Theology on Tap – “Like” the page to get more updates!

Coat Confusion?

     A light, longish khaki-colored trench coat has been languishing in my closet for lo, these many months (since spring?).  With the advent of cooler weather I got it out to wear to church and discovered the coat in my closet is not mine!  Is someone missing a woman’s coat of this description? I have since returned this coat of mistaken identity to the church coat room.

     And has anyone made the same mistake I did?  Mine is a short coat of the above description with a hood.  If it were to miraculously appear in the church coat closet, I would be most thankful and happy.
– Eunice Hafemeister

The Snack Chart is Up

     Fall is here and on October 1 the Way to Goals Tutoring Program will begin for this year.  The snack chart is up for those who would like to support our tutoring program by signing up to bring a snack and beverage for 25 students and tutors.  You will find it on the Neighborhood Ministries bulletin board by Donna Neste’s office in the Undercroft.  If you have any questions feel free to call Donna at church 612-827-5919.

An Afternoon of Music

     Recently, our Flentrop chamber organ has been installed in its new home, The Baroque Room in Lowertown, St. Paul. The organ has recently been voiced to baroque chamber pitch by The Dobson Organ Company.

     All are invited to a gala opening afternoon of music on Sunday, October 6, beginning at 3:00 pm. Featured artists include Jacque Ogg, Henry Lebedinsky, Asako Hirabayashi, Paul Boehnke, Bruce Jacobs, Don Livingston, and Tami Morse. A reception will follow the music.

     The Baroque Room is located on the second floor of the Northwestern Building in St. Paul’s Lowertown neighborhood at 275 E. 4th St., Suite 280, St. Paul, MN  55101.
– Elaine and Art Halbardier

Please Schedule Your Photo Session Appointment

     We have now complete photo sessions for about 30% of the households at Mount Olive. Thank you for your response so far!

     We want to encourage you if you have not yet signed up, to call in the next week to make your appointment to have your photo taken before October 15, 2013. You may also sign up this coming Sunday after both liturgies.

     If you cannot locate your letter or the e-mail regarding the procedure, please call the church office or send an e-mail to welcome@mountolivechurch.org, and we will direct you to the appropriate person to help with scheduling your photo session.

Behind the Scenes at Mount Olive

     A major THANK YOU from the Property Committee and the Aesthetics Committee for some major work that has been done recently to restore, repair and beautify Mount Olive.  If you ever wander through the back hallways, entries, and stairs of Mount Olive you will see the beginning of some much needed work to repair and upgrade those not so visible parts of our building.  Members of Mount Olive and our guests are moving throughout our building and often we forget that the passageways need to be kept looking as inviting as our main meeting areas.

     1.  Mark Pipkorn led a team including John Gidmark and Tim Pipkorn in a major project of resurfacing and refacing the large back entry ramp and steps.  This was no simple project and while enduring high heat and humidity they have brought that important entry to our building totally up to date and made an inviting portal to Mount Olive.

     2.  Over the next few weeks you will see work proceeding on transforming the Narthex into a brighter more inviting space.  New carpeting to the balcony and lighting will soon be installed. Thanks to Brian Jacobs for his help in ordering materials and coordinating installations for this project.  In anticipation of the new carpet, Steve Pranschke, Bob Lee, John Meyer, and Sue Ellen Zagrabelny took on scrubbing down the years of accumulated dirt and grime on the walls leading upstairs to the balcony.  Thank you!

     3.  The back passageway leading from the East Assembly room to the main church had been painted a dark orange color, possibly from when the Education building was added in the mid 1950’s.  That was until Victor “Michelangelo” Gebauer transformed this dark and ominous space into a bright, vibrant passageway.  Thank you, Victor!
     4.  In a not-so-behind-the-scenes project, you may have noticed that Mount Olive now owns, thanks to the Foundation, a large 55” flat screen TV on a convenient stand with an upgraded sound system and it’s own laptop so anyone can use the large monitor for presentations.  Thank you to Andrew Andersen for getting the entire unit assembled and to David Molvik for programming and setting up the computer.

     We also owe thanks to the Mount Olive Foundation and the Mount Olive members who helped to put in place other recent additions: hanging the Christina Habibi art exhibit mounted in the Chapel Lounge and west reception area, and new artwork in the Office, and also the bicycle racks installed near the Chicago Avenue entrance.  Special thanks to Paul Nixdorf for acquiring and mounting the beautiful artwork.

     We hope you will take an opportunity to check out these projects! Thanks again to everyone who gives so much time to help keep Mount Olive a beautiful and prayerful worship space.

Accent on Worship

     Individuals have distinctive character; so do communities. What is that distinguishes Mount Olive? What is the core of that distinctiveness?

     Consider recently joined members. The attraction of Mount Olive appeals not to just the young, the elderly, or other group.

      My admittedly unscientific surveying has received responses such as:

• “I felt welcome here from the beginning.”  That was our experience, as visitors seven years ago. Many folks approached Elaine and me, introducing themselves and inquiring about us. Very soon, we felt very welcome.
• “The liturgy is reverent, and beautiful. Nothing distracts from God during worship.”
• “The singing. It’s amazing!”  Not everyone here is a graduate of a college choir. But when the song of the people begins, even the least talented voices can become caught up in it and find their part.
     The responses echo our familiar three-word motto:  “Musical. Liturgical. Welcoming.” It sums up what is distinctive about Mount Olive. But which is the core of that distinctiveness?
• The Welcome? Do we sing as we do because we all feel so close to one another, like harmonizing ”Kum ba yah” with friends around the campfire?
• The Liturgy? Do we warmly welcome and sing so heartily together because we all were bred high-church, the smell of incense in our nose calming infant colic or the discomfort of a damp diaper?  Not likely.
• Or, is it the singing? I wonder…

   This past summer, National Public Radio broadcast a piece titled “When Choirs Sing, Many Hearts Beat as One.”  Researchers in Sweden attached pulse monitors to individual singers, to measure choir members’ heart rates as they sang together. What struck Bjorn Vickhoff, who led the project, was that it took almost no time at all for the singers’ heart rates to become synchronized. The readout from the pulse monitors starts as a jumble of jagged lines, but quickly becomes a series of uniform peaks. The heart rates fall into a shared rhythm guided by the song’s tempo.

      Quoting now from the broadcast:
  “The members of the choir are synchronizing externally with the melody and the rhythm, and now we see it has an internal counterpart,” Vickhoff says.

     This is just one little study, and these findings might not apply to other singers. But all religions and cultures have some ritual of song, and it’s tempting to ask what this could mean about shared musical experience and communal spirituality.

     Is this a clue to the core of Mount Olive? Is it something beyond ourselves that inspires us to welcome, to worship with a liturgy of communal responses and movements and rhythms? Is it the singing, the gift of a unique and spirit-filled individual named Paul Manz, who inspired this congregation and so many others of us to the pure joy of singing? Which the Holy Spirit continues to use?

      Once again, from the broadcast:
“When I was young, every day started with a teacher sitting down at an old organ to sing a hymn,” Vickhoff says. “Wasn’t that a good idea — to get the class to think, ‘We are one, and we are going to work together today.’ “

      Hmm…In the bad old days of the 1970’s, congregations across the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod were fracturing over supposed “doctrinal differences”, At Grace, River Forest, IL, partisans on each side had worked with vigor to rally members to their position, and to attend the meeting for the vote, Before the ballot, someone called for a prayer. But, who would be an acceptable voice in this divided assembly to lead the prayer?

      While leaders and pastors conferred, Paul Bouman, their beloved musician, went to the organ and introduced, “The Church’s One Foundation.” And, the people began singing. And as the singing continued, and grew, many voices choked with emotions, tears flowed from many eyes.

      I suspect many were thinking, “What are we about to lose in this vote? Is this worth the cost?” The congregation survived that night. Was it the singing?

      The song goes on at Mount Olive, now with our third cantor and fifth pastor since the days of Dr. Manz.  As our future unfolds, above all, let’s keep on singing.

– Art Halbardier

Sunday Readings

Sept. 15, 2013 – Time after Pentecost: Sunday 24
Exodus 32:7-14+ Psalm 51:1-10
I Timothy 1:12-17 + Luke 15:1-10

Sept 22, 2013 – Time after Pentecost: Sunday 25 
Amos 8:4-7 + Psalm 113
I Timothy 2:1-7 + Luke 16:1-13

Freedom of the Christian: Bible Study on Thursday Evenings Begins Tomorrow!

     The first Thursday Bible study series of this year begins tomorrow evening, Thursday, Sept. 19, and runs for six weeks.  Meeting in the Chapel Lounge from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Pr. Crippen will lead a study of the book of Galatians, one of Paul’s most vital and important letters.  As usual, there will be a light supper when we begin.  All are welcome to this study opportunity!

Adult Forum Offerings for September

• September 22: “Celtic Vision: The Trinity in Daily Life,” presented by Brad Holt

• September 29: “Julian of Norwich’s Vision: Transforming Love,” presented by Brad Holt

Book Discussion Group

     Mount Olive’s Book Discussion group meets on the second Saturday of each month at 10:00 a.m. at church. For the October 12 meeting they will discuss The Picture of Dorian Gray, by Oscar Wilde, and for November 9, Parade’s End, by Ford Madox Ford.

New Members To Be Received October 6

     At Mount Olive we welcome people who are at many different points in their Christian faith journey.  That welcome is expressed in any number of ways.  Some folks need a place to worship coming and going quietly. We provide that.  Some seek friendship within a community of Christian believers with whom they share common faith convictions. We work at doing that. Some need to observe for a while to see if what is said about and within this community of faith is reality. That is just fine with us. Some desire a place where they can more fully share their faith and live lives of service.  That is Mount Olive, too.  To have a place to officially call my church” is important for many people of faith. Mount Olive is that.  What works for you is fine with us.

      If you are seeking a place to call your church home, we welcome you at Mount Olive.  New members will be received on October 6, 2013, during the second liturgy.  A welcome brunch will follow the liturgy for new members, their guests, and Mount Olive members.
   
     If you are interested in becoming a member at Mount Olive Lutheran Church, please contact the church office at welcome@mountolivechurch.org or 612.827.5919. You may also speak with Andrew Andersen, Director of Evangelism, or contact him  at andrewstpaul@gmail.com or 763-607-1689.   Pastor Crippen is also available to discuss membership. He can be reached at 612.827.5919 or via e-mail at pastor@mountolivechurch.org.

Mount Olive Greeting Cards

     A set of three greeting cards with photographs taken around Mount Olive Lutheran Church have been designed by Paul Nixdorf. Cards will be available for purchase beginning this Sunday, September 22.

     Single cards are priced at $2.50 each.  For quantity of 5 or more the purchase price is $1.75 each.  Pricing covers production costs. The cards are being made available through sponsorship by the Evangelism Committee.

Way to Goals Tutoring to Begin Soon

     Tuesday, October 1st is the first day of our school year program, Way to Goals Tutoring, and we will be meeting most Tuesday evenings after that until the last Tuesday in May.  We begin at 7:00 p.m. with an hour of tutoring followed by a half hour activity and snack time, and ending at 8:30 p.m.

     If you would like to help as a volunteer tutor of one or two elementary school students call Donna Neste at Mount Olive for all the details.

God’s Work. Our Hands.

     On September 8, Mount Olive families worked at Community Emergency Services in Minneapolis.  The children and adults cleaned, shelved and organized food, worked in the garden, and helped make a mosaic from tile.  We did this in celebration of God’s Work Or Hands Sunday, and also to establish a working relationship with Community Emergency Services.  We hope to continue work with this organization by making Thanksgiving cards for Meals on Wheels recipients and holding a hygiene item drive this fall.

     Families, please mark your calendars for our next event on October 13.  We will prepare food for the evening meal at Our Savior’s shelter after the late service.  Plan to stay for 1 to 1-1/2 hours.  The meal will be served by Mount Olive members later that evening.

     Community Emergency Services would also like to invite Mount Olive members to a fundraising concert on Sunday afternoon September 22 at 3pm.  There will be a brief reception prior to the concert at 2:30.  The concert will feature the Normandale Hylands United Methodist Church choral and bell choir.  It will be held at CES, 1900 11th Avenue South, Minneapolis, MN 55404.  www.cesmn.org.

Feast of St. Francis of Assisi
Blessing of Animals
Friday, October 4 + 7:00 pm
Bring your pets and your friends (and your friends’ pets!) to this annual service of blessing!

Prayer Chain Ministry

     Mount Olive Prayer Chain members pray for confidential prayer requests made by congregation members. This ministry is separate from the prayer requests listed in the Sunday worship folder and The Olive Branch. There are currently twelve   members – and no formal meetings. Members simply make a commitment to pray for the received requests and to keep all requests confidential.  If you would like to become a member of the prayer chain, or if you have a prayer request call Naomi Peterson at 612-824-2228.

Te Deum laudamus: Let us praise God:
A Hymn Festival Celebration in Honor of Paul Westermeyer

     Join Master of Sacred Music graduates as they come together to thank Paul, wish him well in his retirement, and celebrate the gift of music. This hymn festival will be held Saturday, September 28, at 4:00 p.m. at the Chapel of the Incarnation in the Olson Campus Center at Luther Seminary, St. Paul.
Featured participants will be musicians James Bobb, Catherine Rodland, John Ferguson, and Mark Sedio, with reflections by Susan Palo Cherwien. Plan to come and sing, and bring your friends!

A Note of Thanks

     Thanks to Steve and Sandra Pranschke, Cynthia Prosek, Bonnie McLellen, Tom Olsen, and Peggy Hoeft for spending their Saturday afternoon this past weekend cleaning and polishing to make the altar and chancel furnishings shine.

 Meals on Wheels Keeps on Rolling

     Many thanks to those from Mount Olive who are delivering Meals on Wheels for TRUST during the third quarter of 2013: Gary Flatgard, Art & Elaine Halbardier, Bob & Mary Lee, and Connie & Rod Olson.

An Afternoon of Music

     Recently, our Flentrop chamber organ has been installed in its new home, The Baroque Room in Lowertown, St. Paul. The organ has recently been voiced to baroque chamber pitch by The Dobson Organ Company.

     All are invited to a gala opening afternoon of music on Sunday, October 6, beginning at 3:00 pm. Featured artists include Jacque Ogg, Henry Lebedinsky, Asako Hirabayashi, Paul Boehnke, Bruce Jacobs, Don Livingston, and Tami Morse. A reception will follow the music.

     The Baroque Room is located on the second floor of the Northwestern Building in St. Paul’s Lowertown neighborhood at 275 E. 4th St., Suite 280, St. Paul, MN  55101.

– Elaine and Art Halbardier

Church Library News

     After a more relaxing summer, we are glad to  bring you some welcome news in that a new display of children’s DVDs is now available for your check-out.  They will be in one of our usual display spots first, and then they will gradually be moved to the revolving DVD rack, so look for them in either of these two locations.  Included are the following DVDs:

• Veggie Tales — The Little House that Stood (The Parable of the Wise and Foolish Builders) — a Lesson in Making Good Choices
• Veggie Tales — Gideon — Tuba Warrior –a Lesson in Trusting God
• Veggie Tales — Where’s God When I’m S-Scared? — a Lesson in Handling Fear
• Veggie Tales — Minnesota Cuke and the Search for Noah’s Umbrella —  a Lesson in Confidence
• Veggie Tales — Princess and the Pop Star — a Story of Trading Places — a Lesson in Being Yourself
• Veggie Tales — Abe and the Amazing Promise — a Lesson in Patience
• Veggie Tales — Robin Good and His Not So Merry Men — a Lesson in Handling Hurt
• Veggie Tales — Moe and the Big Exit  — a Lesson in Following Directions
• Veggie Tales — Bob Lends a Helping Hand — the Importance of Helping!
• Veggie Tales — Lyle, the Kindly Viking — a Lesson in Sharing
• Sheila Walsh’s Gigi — God’s Little Princess Series (God Made Princesses in All Shapes and Sizes)
• Sheila  Walsh’s Gigi — God’s Princesses Can Always Trust the King
• Hachi — a Dog’s Tale (based on a true story)
• Mandie and the Secret Tunnel

     This summer I stopped at two of the Little Free Library boxes stationed in neighborhoods all across our city. I left a few books that I thought might be useful in those locations.  You may remember that I wrote about this project in a prior column. There are perhaps 10,000 Little Free Libraries scattered across the nation, even though the effort was only started some 3-4 years ago.  Look for one of these special places in or near your own neighborhood and stop by to visit before the “snow flies.”

     Plan to visit your church library soon, especially to view the new children’s DVD section.  Start off the Fall right — make a splash — read!

–  Leanna Kloempken