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

Accent on Worship

The Parables of the Lost

     Think of that which is most precious to you. Now, what if that were lost? What would you be willing to risk—how far would you be willing to go to be reunited?

     In the Gospel for this Sunday, we hear the parables of the lost, in which Jesus reveals to us who our God is and just how far our God has gone and continues to go to reclaim us.

     Good news, right? Not so for the Pharisees. The Pharisees’ complaints about Jesus eating with tax collectors and sinners are reminiscent of the prophet Jonah, who griped at God’s decision to have mercy on the Ninevites: “I knew that you are a gracious God and merciful, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love, and ready to relent from punishing” (Jonah 4:2). Whereas Jonah gripes, “Predictable!” however, the Pharisees grumble, “It doesn’t make sense! How can this fellow be from our God?” Through his parables, Jesus reveals that their God—our God—most certainly rejoices over repentance. How could a gracious God that is merciful, slow to anger, abounding in steadfast love, and ready to relent from punishing not gain back the sinners whom God loves?

     In our own day, there are many who continue to question Jesus. And yet, as Paul writes, “the message about the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.” The cross is now the hinge between the Old and the New, between being lost and found, between death and life. This Saturday is Holy Cross Day, a festival that witnesses to us just how far Jesus was willing to go to bring back the lost: through death itself.

     All who would otherwise perish will not be abandoned, for our God is one who seeks out the lost.

     Our God is one who relentlessly pursues us until we are brought home.

     Our God is one who risks everything, that whoever believes in him may no longer be lost to the darkness of death, but have eternal life in his name.

     Because of the cross, we now know without a doubt that there is no forest too thick, no night too dark, and no chasm too deep that can separate us from this God of love. And God will continue searching, and pursuing, and carrying sheep home until all who are lost are found.

     Now that calls for a celebration! And so we shall when we gather together on Sunday.

– Vicar Emily Beckering

First MFA Event for 2013-14 Season
The Portland Cello Project
This Friday, September 13, 7:30 pm

     Mount Olive Music and Fine Arts presents cellists doing innovative things with music!! The Portland Cello Project has wowed audiences all over the United States with extravagant performances. The group has built a reputation mixing genres and blurring musical lines and perceptions wherever they go. No two shows are alike, with everything from Beethoven to Arvo Pärt to instrumental covers for Adele, Kanye West and Pantera. Check them out at www.portlandcelloproject.com.

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

Keeping Up with the Cantor

     Anyone who is interested in seeing what Cantor Cherwien is up to during his sabbatical leave should check his blog: www.cherwien.blogspot.com.

Christina Habibi Art Exhibit at Mount Olive

    We are pleased to announce an Art Exhibit by Minnesota Artist Christina Habibi (www.habibiart.com.).

     The exhibit opens at 7:00 pm on Friday, September 13, in the gallery area of Mount Olive Lutheran Church in conjunction with the Portland Cello Project Concert, and runs through October 1, 2013.

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.

Freedom of the Christian: Bible Study on Thursday Evenings Starting Sept. 19

     The first Thursday Bible study series of this year begins on 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 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!

Altar and Chancel Cleaning Day to be Held September 14, 12 noon – 3 pm

     Several times each year members of the Altar Guild gather to clean the altar and chancel.  This involves dusting (lots of dusting, including some pretty high places!), polishing all the brass, and scraping wax from the floor, to name just a few of the tasks.  This cleaning day is open to all members of the parish.  You do not need to be an “official” member of the Altar Guild to participate.  Please join us on Saturday, September 14 at 12 noon.  

Pictorial Directory Information

     Photography for the new Mount Olive online Pictorial Directory will begin in earnest the first week of September.

     We will be producing an online digital directory.  This online directory will be password-protected so that access is limited to Mount Olive folks who are issued a password through the church office. For those who do not have computer access a hard copy will be available.

     Photography sessions will take place at Mount Olive Lutheran Church. Arrangements will be made for photographs of shut-ins.

     An email will be sent to each household of the parish giving instructions as to how you can sign up for a photography session.  There will be time slots for photography sessions during the month of September on weekday afternoons and evenings.  Time slots will be available on weekends.

     For those households that do not have e-mail, a letter will be sent via U.S. Post Office with instructions for scheduling a photography session.

     After the initial period of self-initiated photography session sign up, follow-up contacts and phone calls will be made to arrange for those households that have not scheduled their session.

     In the week following your photography session, you will be asked to select one of the photographs taken of you or your household for the directory.  Each person/household will be given a digital copy of the photo selected for the directory.  There will be an opportunity to purchase prints and/or digital copies of your photos should you want to do so.

     We need volunteers for the following jobs related to the project:
a) Hosts during the photo sessions at the church
b) Data entry and photo management that can be done from your home online
c) Follow up phone scheduling.

     If you are willing to assist with one of these jobs, please contact Andrew Andersen at andrewstpaul@gmail.com, or Sandra Pranschke at spranschke@gmail.com.

South Africa Learning Tour

     Christ the King Lutheran Church (Bloomington), a congregation that also supports the ELCA mission work of Pastor Phil Knutson, will sponsor a trip to South Africa, February 14- March 1, 2014.  They will be visiting Johannesburg, Phil Knutson’s base for his work, as well as other areas including Durban and Cape Town.  The goal is to broaden visions and perspectives.  The cost is approx $5099, including flights. Mount Olive members are invited to join this group.  For more information, contact Pastor Hans Lee of Christ the King at 952-881-8600 or hlee@ctkb.org

Adult Forum Offerings for September

• September 15: “Meet the Vicar! Getting to Know Vicar Emily Beckering”

• 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 September 14 meeting they will discuss Things Fall Apart, by Chinua Achebe, for October 12, The Picture of Dorian Gray, by Oscar Wilde, and for November 9, Parade’s End, by Ford Madox Ford.

Visioning Update

     Having taken a brief hiatus due to summer travel plans for many of the Vision Task Force Leadership Team, it’s been a while since we shared an update of the work being done.  We are once again meeting bi-weekly.   Such a wealth of history, information, and data you have given us with which to work—we don’t want to waste a bit of it.  Putting it into “buckets” that can be used and reused as we look at God’s vision for us in terms of programs, staffing, and the many ways and places ministry occurs takes time.  But we are making progress and coming to some consensus in a number of areas.  For example:

1. We know that we draw our energy, or fire, for all that we do from our worship together.
2. We know that our “neighborhood” is much greater than a 2-mile radius from our building; reaching into every neighborhood in which our members live, play, and work and beyond.
3. We know that to continue, and perhaps expand in new directions, we must at least maintain current staffing levels.
4. We know it will be important for the members and friends of Mount Olive to reaffirm their commitment to “own” the ways in which we continue our worship by serving and being neighbor wherever we are.

     And still there is much we continue to explore before making a formal recommendation to Vestry and Congregation:

1. How do we best embody and proclaim the Christ we meet in worship as we engage the world for peace and justice in his name?
2. What is the connection between our experience of God in the nave and our experience of God in the world, between our sense of call to be the body of Christ in this building, at worship, and our sense of call to be the body of Christ outside, also at worship?
3. In what ways do we meet Christ in our neighbors, friends, and especially those with whom we are less familiar and continue our worship of God in lives of faithful service with and to (or from) these people?
4. Upon Donna’s retirement, what kind of staff person will best illuminate God’s vision for us in this, building upon the relationships Donna has forged; helping people connect in meaningful ways?
5. What kind of training, skills and education should we expect of prospective applicants that will best enable this staff person to help us recognize and act on God’s vision; what should (and should not) be a part of this person’s job description?
6. How do we continue to gather people around this vision in coming months and years to be the people God is calling us to be?

     As with anything of this magnitude, there are always more questions than answers.  Even seeming answers often raise additional questions and the need for faith in moving forward.  We continue to grapple with both questions and answers and seek the Spirit’s leading in making the best use of the treasure of information and wisdom entrusted to us before making any recommendation to the Vestry.  Please remember the Vision Leadership Team and the work entrusted to them in prayer, even as you pray for our parish, our staff, and our Vestry.

 – Adam Krueger, chair of Visioning Leadership Team

Lutheran College Fair

     A Lutheran College Fair will be held on Monday, September 23, at Shepherd of the Lake Lutheran Church in Prior Lake, from 7-9 p.m. Admissions representatives from all Lutheran colleges will be on hand to answer questions about financial aid, academic programs, student life, and admission at these schools. Students of all ages and their families are welcome to attend.

     Please visit www.lutherancolleges.org for more details regarding specific workshops and programs available at the fair.

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!

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 starting on 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.

     Samples for viewing will be available for viewing this Sunday, September 15.

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. Organized by former member Kathy Sherer, there are currently twelve   members. There are 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.

A Word of Thanks

     Thanks to Hospitality Team members Gail Neilsen, Carla Manuel, and Tom Olsen for the delicious brunch they prepared to kick off the ELCA Day of Service last Sunday. We estimate that between 75 and 100 people attended.

     Thanks also to those attendees who participated in the “God’s Work Our Hands” exercise. Watch for a poster displaying results.

EPES Chile Update

     One of Mount Olive’s missions is the Chilean organization EPES and its North American affiliate, Action for Health in the Americas.  EPES has its roots in Lutheran community health initiatives to empower the poorest residents of Chile during the Pinochet dictatorship.  In the past days, leading up to September 11, our brothers and sisters in EPES, along with other Chileans, are recognizing the 40th  anniversary of the coup that brought Pinochet to power.  Many Chileans feel that their country has still not come to terms with the legacy of the dictatorship and those who suffered loss have not found justice. The September 8 issue of The New York Times quotes the calls for justice by Victoria Garcia, one of the health educators from EPES.  Mount Olive members are urged to keep the health outreach workers of EPES and other Chileans in their prayers as they mark this anniversary and work for justice and peace.

Lutherans and Syria

      News of the civil war in Syria and its effects on civilians, including large numbers of refugees fleeing the conflict, has been at the forefront of the news.  The Missions Committee wanted to make sure that Mount Olive members had updates about how the leadership of the ELCA and the Lutheran World Federation has responded.

     Presiding Bishop Mark Hanson has continued his call for a diplomatic solution instead of immediate military strikes.  In a letter to President Obama, he wrote: “I agree with your clear renunciation of any use of chemical weapons. Such weapons have no place in our world, and their use by any party is unacceptable under any circumstances….we weep for the victims of the most recent incident … I am nevertheless convinced that any U.S. military intervention within Syria will potentially release even greater suffering on an even wider scale.” The Lutheran World Federation has issued a similar statement urging diplomatic engagement.

     Bishop Hanson has also urged Lutherans to contribute to efforts that support assistance to those affected by the war.  Over 2 million Syrians have fled their country . The ELCA Disaster Respons has been assisting Syrian refugees in the Za’atari Refugee Camp in Jordan and the Lutheran World Federation has been providing funds for the Lutheran World Federation-Jerusalem to take on additional responsibilites in caring for Syrian refugees. More updates can be found on the ELCA website and the website of the Lutheran World Federation.

     If Mount Olive members wish to contribute to refugee assistance, you can make a donation, payable to Mount Olive, with Syria in the memo line and the Missions Committee will send it on behalf of Mount Olive for Syrian refugee support.  The Missions Committee will try to provide periodic updates as to statements and actions by ELCA and Lutheran World Federation leaders.

Vestry Update, September 9, 2013

     For the second Vestry meeting in a row there has been a new staff member to introduce.  At the September 9 meeting the Vestry welcomed Interim Cantor William Beckstrand.  Cantor Beckstrand has been living up north for the past ten years and is looking forward to his time at Mount Olive.  He commented that he truly loves the moment when an assembly gathers and feeling the energy that is generated by everyone being together in worship.

     The Vestry heard updates on the visioning process that is in process.  The Visioning Committee is working hard and as they do the vision is coalescing and evolving into something much more than the observations and interviews.  On a macro level the process is revealing a greater vision for what might be and what role God is calling the people of Mount Olive to play in the near future.  The committee continues to work to develop a sense of language that will resonate with everyone in the congregation and help to guide us as we move toward the future.  An update from the visioning group will be in the September 11 Olive Branch.

     Much of the meeting revolved around finance.  As we move toward the roll-out of the Mini-Capital Campaign approved in April, we learned that an update and timeline will be presented at the October 20 Semi-Annual Congregation Meeting.   A good portion of the meeting was spent developing the 2014 budget which will also be voted on at the Congregation Meeting.  Leading  up to the meeting, members should look for copies of the budget that will be sent out electronically and also be available in print.  On Sunday, October 9, there will also be a question-and-answer session on the budget after the second liturgy, so and members are encouraged to look over the handout and come with questions and comments.

     Several of the committee reports highlighted all that is being done in the building and in the neighborhood.  Jobs After School’s summer session ended with a field trip to the Mall of America.  Their summer project was a mural painted on the wall of the Diaper Depot; all are encouraged to stop down and check it out!  The Property Committee continues their work throughout the building and grounds.  This includes a new piece of art that was installed in the office as well as new bike racks outside.

     The next meeting of the Vestry will be October 14, 2013 at 7:00 p.m.

Accent on Worship

Bowing at Mount Olive

     We at Mount Olive describe ourselves as a “musical, liturgical, and welcoming” congregation.  We are a bowing church as well.  That is, there are many of us who bow during the liturgy as one of our worship practices and postures.  There are at least a couple of reasons for this practice.

     First, we bow to worship God, acknowledging the presence of the Holy One in our midst.  This is why many of us bow to the processional cross (the symbol of our salvation), to the altar (the symbol of God’s presence), and when the name of Jesus and the Triune God (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit) are sung or spoken.  Bowing to God is a practice mentioned a number of times in the Bible. For example the Psalmist writes, “O come, let us worship and bow down, let us kneel before the Lord, our Maker!”  (Psalm 95:6).  Bowing before God has been a traditional worship posture for God’s people, both Jewish and Christian, since the earliest times.

     We also bow to one another as a way of showing love and respect to our brothers and sisters in Christ.  Since the gathered assembly of worshippers is part of the body of Christ and since Jesus has promised to be present whenever two or three believers gather in His name, the presence of the Holy One is located not only in the symbols of cross and altar but in the assembly as well.  This is why Pastor Joseph bows both to the altar and to the people before entering the pulpit to preach.  Bowing to one another, with a nod of our heads, acknowledges that each person is a beloved child of God, created in God’s image.  It reminds us that we are called to love one another – friend, neighbor, and enemy alike.

     Bowing in worship is neither something I grew up with nor something I learned in seminary (the Lutheran church of my upbringing and seminary I attended being rather non-liturgical places.) But it has become a practice I hold dear.  I like that bowing allows worship to be something I/we do physically, a way to worship with our bodies as well as with the words of our mouths and meditations of our hearts.  Bowing reminds me that God is present not only spiritually, in our minds and hearts, but physically in the very space we occupy as we gather for worship.  And I appreciate that bowing allows us a way to form ourselves – body, mind, and spirit – into a posture of respect and reverence for the living God.

– Rob Ruff

Regular Worship Schedule to Resume This Sunday, September 8

This Sunday, September 8, we return to our regular worship schedule of two Sunday liturgies at 8:00 and 10:45 a.m.

God’s Work. Our Hands

     To mark the 25th Anniversary of the founding of our national church body, all Evangelical Lutheran Church in America faith communities are being asked to promote activities that give life to ELCA’s byline:  God’s Work.  Our Hands. Please join us for brunch between liturgies this Sunday, September 8. We will learn more about and celebrate Mt. Olive’s service to the broader community, both in our neighborhood ministries and in our own ministries beyond these walls.

Sunday Readings

September 8, 2013 – Time after Pentecost: Sunday 23 
Deuteronomy 30:15-20 + Psalm 1
Philemon 1-21 + Luke 14:25-33

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

Keeping Up with the Cantor

     Anyone who is interested in seeing what Cantor Cherwien is up to during his sabbatical should check his blog: www.cherwien.blogspot.com.

God’s Work, Our Hands – Be Prepared to Draw Your Hand!

     On September 8, the ELCA will celebrate its 25th anniversary! In observance of this special day, Mount Olive will celebrate with a luncheon at which you may tell of the stories of our own experiences of reaching out into the neighborhood and community. In anticipation of this day, several members have scheduled service opportunities.

     Come and enjoy the meal and conversation and be prepared to engage in our community. Members of Mount Olive know how to use their hands and hearts to do God’s work.

First MFA Event for 2013-14 Season
The Portland Cello Project
Friday, September 13, 7:30 pm

     Mount Olive Music and Fine Arts presents cellists doing innovative things with music!! The Portland Cello Project has wowed audiences all over the United States with extravagant performances. The group has built a reputation mixing genres and blurring musical lines and perceptions wherever they go. No two shows are alike, with everything from Beethoven to Arvo Pärt to instrumental covers for Adele, Kanye West and Pantera. Check them out at https://portlandcelloproject.com.

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

The Olive Branch Resumes Weekly Publication

With this issue of The Olive Branch, we resume regular weekly publication of the church newsletter. The deadline for information to be published is Wednesdays at Noon.

 
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.

Freedom of the Christian: Bible Study on Thursday Evenings Starting Sept. 19

     The first Thursday Bible study series of this year begins on 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 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!

Altar and Chancel Cleaning Day to be Held September 14, 12 noon – 3 pm

     Several times each year members of the Altar Guild gather to clean the altar and chancel.  This involves dusting (lots of dusting, including some pretty high places!), polishing all the brass, and scraping wax from the floor, to name just a few of the tasks.  This cleaning day is open to all members of the parish.  You do not need to be an “official” member of the Altar Guild to participate.  Please join us on Saturday, September 14 at 12 noon.  

Every Church A Peace Church

     The next regular bimonthly potluck supper meeting of Every Church a Peace Church will be held on Monday, September 9th at 6:30 p.m. at Robbinsdale United Church of Christ, 4200 Lake Road, Robbinsdale, MN  (763-537-6965,  and on the web:www.robbinsdaleucc.org).

     The speaker for this program will be Jay Carlson, pastor at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in Minneapolis, a congregation that has long been a neighborhood leader for social justice. In recent years, Holy Trinity has supported a campaign for better wages and working conditions for retail cleaning workers and has been leading an effort to address problems associated with payday lending. His program will be “Faith, Community, and Building Power: A Reflection on Holy Trinity’s Work for Peace with Justice in the City.”

     Pastor Carlson will be joined by Holy Trinity’s parish organizer, Meghan Olsen Biebighauser, who has received training in community organizing methods from the Midwest Academy in Chicago.

Pictorial Directory Information

     Photography for the new Mount Olive online Pictorial Directory will begin in earnest the first week of September.
     We will be producing an online digital directory.  This online directory will be password-protected so that access is limited to Mount Olive folks who are issued a password through the church office. For those who do not have computer access a hard copy will be available.

     Photography sessions will take place at Mount Olive Lutheran Church. Arrangements will be made for photographs of shut-ins.

     An email will be sent to each household of the parish giving instructions as to how you can sign up for a photography session.

     There will be time slots for photography sessions during the month of September on weekday afternoons and evenings.  Time slots will be available on weekends.

     For those households that do not have e-mail, a letter will be sent via U.S. Post Office with instructions for scheduling a photography session.

     After the initial period of self-initiated photography session sign up, follow-up contacts and phone calls will be made to arrange for those households that have not scheduled their session.

     In the week following your photography session, you will be asked to select one of the photographs taken of you or your household for the directory.  Each person/household will be given a digital copy of the photo selected for the directory.  There will be an opportunity to purchase prints and/or digital copies of your photos should you want to do so.

     We need volunteers for the following jobs related to the project:

a) Hosts during the photo sessions at the church
b) Data entry and photo management that can be done from your home online
c) Follow up phone scheduling.

     If you are willing to assist with one of these jobs, please contact Andrew Andersen at andrewstpaul@gmail.com, or Sandra Pranschke at spranschke@gmail.com.

Introducing Vicar Emily Beckering

Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ:

     Greetings to you and peace! I am overjoyed to be beginning my time with you all; it is a privilege to be able to worship and to serve with you as the 43rd vicar at Mount Olive. On behalf of those who have come before me, and those who are yet to come, I would like to sincerely thank you all for your commitment to training vicars; your ministry is truly a gift to me and to the Church.

     My husband, Taylor, and I come to you from Luther Seminary in St. Paul. We will continue to live on the Luther Seminary campus throughout the year. Recently in July, we celebrated our second anniversary! I grew up in East Bethel, Minnesota, which is also the town of my home congregation, Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church. Taylor is from Worthington, Minnesota, and we both graduated from Gustavus Adolphus College. Currently, Taylor works as a substitute mail carrier for the U.S. Post Office in Apple Valley. He will begin the Master’s program in Counseling Psychology at St. Thomas University this coming fall. We enjoy visiting our families in Worthington and Howard Lake, playing board games, fishing, crafting gifts, and reading novels. If you would like to introduce us to some of your own board games, favorite authors, or consider yourself a crafty soul, we invite you to pass along your secrets!

     I am grateful to gather around Word and Sacrament with you each week for the coming year, and I look forward to our time together. I anticipate that I will learn much from our conversations, from our shared service in the name of Christ, and from feasting on the Word with one another.

     Thank you for welcoming Taylor and me into your midst. I am eager to witness how God is at work among you for the sake of the world!

Christ’s peace be with you,
– Vicar Emily Beckering

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 September 14 meeting they will discuss Things Fall Apart, by Chinua Achebe, for October 12, The Picture of Dorian Gray, by Oscar Wilde, and for November 9, Parade’s End, by Ford Madox Ford.

South Africa Learning Tour

     Christ the King Lutheran Church (Bloomington), a congregation that also supports the ELCA mission work of Pastor Phil Knutson, will sponsor a trip to South Africa, February 14- March 1, 2014.  They will be visiting Johannesburg, Phil Knutson’s base for his work, as well as other areas including Durban and Cape Town.  The goal is to broaden visions and perspectives.  The cost is approx $5099, including flights. Mount Olive members are invited to join this group.  For more information, contact Pastor Hans Lee of Christ the King at 952-881-8600 or hlee@ctkb.org

Invitation to Attend Lutheran Volunteer Corps Commissioning

     Mount Olive members are warmly invited to join the Twin Cities’ Lutheran Volunteer Corps Commissioning Service and Reception at 2:00 p.m., this Sunday, September 8, at Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church.  Mount Olive is a supporting congregation for Lutheran Volunteer Corps.  This will be a great way to show our support, to meet the 2013-2014 volunteers, and get to know other congregations and community organizations.  This celebration is also a great way to mark the 25th anniversary of the ELCA by showing our support of service to the world.  If you are interested in attending, please send an e-mail to Sophie Gardner, (sophialggardner@gmail.com) and bring a dessert to share if you can.  They would love to see Mount Olive members there and build connections between the young adults in LVC and Mount Olive.

Vestry Meeting Highlights: August, 2013

     The August 12 meeting of the Vestry just happened to fall on new Vicar Emily Beckering’s first day.  What a great way for her to see Mount Olive members in action!  Pastor Crippen introduced Vicar Beckering and she shared that, prior to entering Luther Seminary, she had been a special education teacher.  It was a great opportunity for her to share some of her background and get to know a little more about Mount Olive and the Vestry.

     The meeting was a lively one and included updates on the Visioning Committee.  They are currently in the process of synthesizing the material that was gathered by the different observation and interviews and plan on submitting a report to the Vestry in October so that a formal update can be included in the Semi-Annual Congregational Meeting.  There is a lot of information to cover, but it is an incredible opportunity for Mount Olive to engage in the community.

     Several committees had new members to submit for approval.  The newest member of the Internship Committee will be Joe Kane.  A newly formed Library Committee will include Dan Burow, Dwight Penas, Bonnie McClellan, and Leanna Kloempken.  Tom Graves and Ginny Agresti are now members of the Congregational Life Committee, and new to the Staff Support Committee is Rob Ruff.

     This was Cantor Cherwien’s last Vestry meeting before his sabbatical.  He spoke to the joy and energy that has been present during summer worship and also expressed his excitement to be travelling to places that will give him the opportunity to experience some amazing music.  Interim Cantor William Beckstrand will begin his three month tenure on September 1.

     Members of the congregation will be asked to schedule time to have their photos taken for the pictorial directory.  Paul Nixdorf will take photos in September and members will be able to select the proof of their choice to be included in the directory. Andrew Andersen and the Evangelism Committee have also been working on ways to augment internal parish communications to ensure that everyone has the important information that they need to stay current.

     The next meeting of the Vestry will be September 9, 2013 at 7:00 p.m.

Service Event at CES

     There will be a day of service event for families of Mount Olive at the Community Emergency Services on September 8 from 1-3.  CES is located at 1900 11th Ave S. in Minneapolis.  We will be doing some sorting and cleaning–projects which are much needed.  They are grateful for our willingness to help.  If your family would like to participate please call or email Beth Sawyer at mikebethsawyer78@gmail.com or 651-434-0666.  There are 8 spots left.   CES is looking for additional volunteers on Monday, September 9 from 9 to 10 am to top off grocery bags.  If you can help please contact Pastor Lyn Peterson at lpeterson@cesmn.org.

Accent on Worship

A Great Gift

     Once a young J. S. Bach set out on foot for a 250 mile journey,  a four week  leave to observe Buxtehude in Lübeck.  It turned into a three-month absence for which he was punished.  Since he had hired a replacement (Johann Ernst Bach), he didn’t worry about the extension  because he had “hoped the organ playing had been so well taken care of by the one he had engaged for the purpose that no complaint could be entered on that account.”  Indeed.

     We have no way of knowing the significance of Bach’s trip,  but I’m guessing it was pretty influential for the 20-some year-old budding genius.   What’s three months in the grand scheme of things,  given the impact of this person’s lifetime of work?  Imagine if his superiors gripped on to him and his time,  thus depriving him of what most likely was significant input.

     I am lucky. I serve a congregation who understands the value of this kind of thing.  I’m hardly in my twenties anymore,  but input is still vital for me, and for all of us, actually.  The best way I learn is through experiences,  through observation,  having the chance to get out and hear and experience what’s going on elsewhere.  This will be my third sabbatical in my career,  and the second one during my time here at Mount Olive.  Each of the previous times were rich with experiences which fed our energy upon returning.  I’m expecting the same this go around.

     I’m energized by travel – by adventure.  And I will be doing a lot of it!  I will begin in Europe,  where my calling was begun – twice – first as a 13- year-old organ student in southern France,  then as a fresh college graduate studying Church Music in Berlin. I will be in Paris for two weekends,  attending 5 liturgies each Sunday (I’ve developed a Sunday itinerary that includes 3 Eucharists,  and 2 organ recitals).  I will then head to Berlin to see the people and places of my schooling 30 years ago,  and then to Leipzig,  to attend the weekend’s activities which include Motets and Cantatas.

     Following that trip, I was able to accept hymn festival invitations that I normally would not (because I GET to be here!),  and they will take me (and Susan who has also been invited to present at these) to Midland, Texas,  Lancaster, Pennsylvania,  Orange County, California,  Phoenix, Arizona,  and Indianapolis, Indiana!
     In mid October,  I will observe rehearsals and attend Evensong at King’s College, Cambridge England – an experience that I’m especially excited about.

     To top it off,  there is a wonderful series of concerts in New York City on the theme of spirituality – and I’m hoping we can go there to experience some of those in November.

     It will be a rich time – and I am extremely grateful for this opportunity, and the time.  Who knows what three months of input will do to my output in the six years that follow!

     Yet, sabbaticals work in both directions!  It is an opportunity for you to experience gifts of someone with different set of experiences, bringing new and fresh ideas to into your midst.

     In my place here at Mount Olive will be William Beckstrand.  He is an outstanding musician,  known for composition and church music!  He has served several parishes in the Twin Cities and Duluth,  and is currently a full time composer.  His gifts will be different,  and I know wonderful.  And I pray your gifts to him will also be a blessing!

     I will keep in touch.  Watch The Olive Branch for how I’ll decide to do that.

– Cantor Cherwien

Sunday Readings

Aug. 25, 2013 – Time after Pentecost: Sunday 21 
Isaiah 58:9b-14 + Psalm 103:1-8
Hebrews 12:18-29 + Luke 13:10-17

Sept. 1, 2013 – Time after Pentecost: Sunday 22
Proverbs 25:6-7 + Psalm 112
Hebrews 13:1-8, 15-16 + Luke 14:1, 7-14

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 September 14 meeting they will discuss Things Fall Apart, by Chinua Achebe, and for November 9, Parade’s End, by Ford Madox Ford.

Women’s Vocal Ensemble – for August 

     A women’s ensemble will be assembled to sing at the Eucharist this Sunday, August 25, 9:30 service.  We will have one rehearsal, that morning at 8:00 a.m.  (coffee provided!)  Contact Cantor Cherwien if you would like to sing, or simply come this Sunday, August 25, at 8:00 am.

Congregational Care Comes to the Forum

     The art of giving and accepting care will be a forum topic during the coffee hour on Sunday, October 13.  Many at Mount Olive find themselves in the role of caregiver while others find themselves in the often unfamiliar spot of having to accept care from others.  While we tend to think of this as an “old people’s problem”, this is a generational concern as people care for aging parents, sick friends, special needs children, and ourselves.

     Key to care is knowledge of services and programs available in our state and city and how to access them.  While most of us know a little bit about some things, laws change and it is hard to keep up.  The forum could address a variety of topics, such as:

–  End of life issues – how to plan for known and unknown entities and how to access help.  Learn about health care directives, Hospice, and plan your funeral.
–  Family support – shifting roles, new responsibilities, changes in and losses of a loved one.  What will you need to help get through the tough times?
–  Unexpected life transitions – i.e. divorce, suicide, chronic illness, parenting small and adult children, and all the unanticipated twists and turns of life.
– Spiritual resources – accepting God’s grace through the loving action of the Mount Olive community.  We all need to learn and be open to how this works.

     This is a tall order for one forum!  The final shape of the hour depends on what topical interest emerges as a “high demand” priority.  Please weigh in via phone, email, or conversation by contacting Marilyn Gebauer at 651-704-9539 or by email at gebauevm@bitstream.net.  Feel free to speak with any of the other members of the Congregational Care Committee: Cathy Bosworth, Peggy Hoeft, and Warren Peterson.  

Arts on Chicago

     On the counter outside of the church office reception window, there is a basket that contains a handy pocket-sized “Arts On Chicago” guide.  Please help yourself and take advantage of the many arts offerings in the neighborhood around Mount Olive.

A Note of Thanks

     Thank you to the many friends and members of Mount Olive who lifted my health in prayer during and following my recent surgery.  Pastor’s visit to the hospital along the many expressions of encouragement and good health, both in person and via cards, have indeed been a blessing and brought about the desired healing. Now to work on getting my voice back!

– Adam Krueger

Mission spotlight: LWF–Jerusalem

     Mount Olive’s Missions Committee each year selects new and continuing national and global projects for relatively modest direct grants that are in addition to our mission support through the ELCA. Our funding—on behalf of the congregation—of the Lutheran World Federation’s Jerusalem work, which falls under LWF’s Department for World Service, supports Palestinian refugees and others through the 100-year-old Augusta Victoria Hospital (which, happily for us, is located on the Mount of Olives!), a vocational training program for young men and women, scholarships, and work in peace, justice, and reconciliation. Last year LWF’s Jerusalem program (which now extends to serving Syrian refugees in the Zaatari camp in northern Jordan) served nearly 28,000 people at the hospital, more than 700 in the vocational program, and awarded scholarships and material help to almost 3,500 people. Mount Olive’s role in this troubled part of the world may be small, but we are there.

Neighborhood Ministries Newsletter
Available This Weekend

     Greetings from Mount Olive Neighborhood Ministries, the Neighborhood Ministries quarterly newsletter, will be distributed following the liturgy this Sunday, August 25.  If you will not be in church that day and wish to pick it up, it will be in the church office and also in the narthex.

Pictorial Directory Information

     Photography for the new Mount Olive On Line Pictorial Directory will begin the first week of September with EARLY dates in August.

****SPECIAL EARLY TIME SLOTS ARE AVAILABLE BEFORE THE END OF AUGUST***

     If you would like to have the picture for your household taken before kids depart for college or if you are not available during the month of September for a photography session, please call the church office at 612-827-5919, or contact Paul Nixdorf at   612-296-0055   or by email to   pn@paulnixdorf.com  to arrange for a photography session before the end of August.

     We will be producing an online digital directory.  This online directory will be password-protected so that access is limited to Mount Olive folks who are issued a password through the church office. For those who do not have computer access a hard copy will be available.

     Photography sessions will take place at Mount Olive Lutheran Church. Arrangements will be made for photographs of shut-ins.

     An email will be sent to each household of the parish giving instructions as to how you can sign up for a photography session.  There will be time slots for photography sessions during the month of September on weekday afternoons and evenings.  Time slots will be available on weekends.

     For those households that do not have e-mail, a letter will be sent via US Mail with instructions for scheduling their photography session.

     After the initial period of self-initiated photography session sign up, follow up contacts and phone calls will be made to arrange for those households that have not scheduled their session.

     In the week following your photography session, you will be asked to select one of the photographs taken of you or your household for the directory.  Each person/household will be given a digital copy of the photo selected for the directory.  There will be an opportunity to purchase prints and or digital copies of your photos should you want to do so.

     We need volunteers for the following jobs related to the project:
a) Hosts during the photo sessions at the church
b) Data entry and photo management that can be done from your home online
c) Follow up phone scheduling.

     If you would be willing to assist with one of these jobs, please contact Andrew Andersen at andrewstpaul@gmail.com, or Sandra Pranschke at spranschke@gmail.com.

First MFA Event for 2013-14 Season
The Portland Cello Project
Friday, September 13, 7:30 pm

     Mount Olive Music and Fine Arts presents cellists doing innovative things with music!! The Portland Cello Project has wowed audiences all over the United States with extravagant performances. The group has built a reputation mixing genres and blurring musical lines and perceptions wherever they go. No two shows are alike, with everything from Beethoven to Arvo Pärt to instrumental covers for Adele, Kanye West and Pantera. Check them out at https://portlandcelloproject.com/.

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

Summer Worship Schedule Draws to a Close

     Sunday, September 1 (Labor Day weekend) will be our last day on summer worship schedule. Beginning Sunday, September 8, we resume our regular worship schedule of two Sunday liturgies at 8:00 and 10:45 a.m.

Stop and Shop

     Summer art fairs are over and The Art Shoppe in the Midtown Global market is well stocked! Beautiful and unique works of art from over 60 artists are waiting to be purchased and worn or used by you and your friends and loved ones.

     Come and shop in the air-conditioned comfort of the Midtown Global Market!

Freedom of the Christian: Bible Study on Thursday Evenings Starting Sept. 19

     The first Thursday Bible study series of this year begins on 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 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.  If anyone wishes to provide the first meal, please let Pr. Crippen know.  All are welcome to this study opportunity!

TRUST: Coming Activities

     Cooperative Older Adult Ministries (CoAM) will sponsor a new Life Enrichment Series beginning October 7. This educational series will focus on the relations between the U.S. and other countries, such as China and Egypt. Mount Olive member, Dan Burow, will speak on the founding of our country and the Revolutionary War.

     Two tours will also be offered in the coming months. The first is an autumn train excursion on October 24, cost is $57 per person. The second is  a trip to see a Christmas play, “Sorry, Wrong Chimney,” presented by Day Trippers Dinner Theater on December 12. The cost for that trip is $51 per person.
     For more information about these and other TRUST happenings, see the bulletin board downstairs near Donna’s office.

Friendly Callers Meet for Check-In This Sunday August 25

     Mount Olive’s Friendly Callers will meet for a brief check-in August 25, following the 9:30 Eucharist.  We will meet near the Library for a short stand-up meeting to check the progress of our Friendly Calling Program and to offer each other support.  Any questions about the Friendly Callers can be directed to Sue Ellen Zagrabelny at 815-997-6020.

Accent on Worship

Be Not Afraid!

     Many of us know and take both pride and delight in the enthusiasm of one of our youngest members when the gradual (or Gospel Acclamation) for the day is “Be Not Afraid!” The exuberance shown by the child embodies the message of that song.

     What a joy it would be to be fearless.

     But let’s face it: We live lives filled with fear. One political philosophy asserts that we have society at all only because we make implied “contracts” that I won’t kill you if you don’t kill me. This is the culture in which we live.

     Or is it? Or at least, must it be?

     Do not be afraid, the LORD says to Abram before launching him on his journey.

     Don’t be afraid to give, Jesus tells his hearers and followers.

     Take a chance; fear not, said Gabriel to the mother of our Lord.

     Our call as Christians is to live by faith and thereby to set aside our fears. But that’s easy to say in the abstract. There are very real threats in the world; only a fool would pretend otherwise.

     But the promise of the Gospel is that we need not give in to those real fears. We may live unbounded by fear. How? Why?  Because we have a God who regards us in our low estate; who will protect us as we journey where he sends us. This is the God who reached into death to demonstrate his ability to defeat the very source of all fears.

     What seas might we (as the Israelites before us) pass through if the roiling waters didn’t petrify even the best swimmers among us? What reconciliation might we attain if we didn’t fear being stabbed in the back or even misunderstood by someone of another background? What miracles might this “one nation under God” achieve if our politicians risked their careers by funding a peace academy instead of  several billion dollar on war machines that the Pentagon doesn’t even want? What good might we individuals do with our money if we didn’t fear running out of money in our retirement?

     We will hear our Lord caution us to read the signs of the times. What will we see? The promise of the Gospel is that, in our songs and in our lives, we may match Rose decibel for decibel: Be not afraid! We are not afraid.

– Dwight Penas

Sunday Readings

August 11, 2013 – Time after Pentecost: Sunday 19
Genesis 15:1-6 + Psalm 33:12-22
Hebrews 11:1-3, 8-16 + Luke 12:32-40

August 18, 2013 – Time after Pentecost: Sunday 20
Jeremiah 23:23-29 + Psalm 82
Hebrews 11:29—12:2 + Luke 12:49-56

Mary, Mother of Our Lord
Thursday, August 15, 2013
Holy Eucharist at 7:00 p.m.

Godly Play for Grownups

    Our summer 4-part series “Godly Play for Grown-ups” concludes on August 18th.  You are invited to come and experience a parable in a new way. Enjoy a quick cup of coffee after liturgy if you wish, and then come downstairs to Godly Play Circle One.  We will welcome you to the circle at 11:10am.

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 August 10 meeting we will discuss Team of Rivals, by Doris Kearns Goodwin, and on September 14, Things Fall Apart, by Chinua Achebe.

Organ Recital by Christine Skogen to be Held Sunday, August 18, 3:00 pm

     Christine Skogen came to Minneapolis summer of 2010 with the intention of learning to play the organ.  Since then, she has been the student of Cantor Cherwien and has worked extremely hard, learning an enormous amount in this relatively short time with us.  This fall she will begin undergraduate studies at Luther College, studying organ with Dr. Gregory Peterson.

     She will perform works by Bach, Brahms, Reger, and Vierne. A congratulatory and farewell reception will follow the program. If any would like to give her a personal note of encouragement or a gift to assist her with books and expenses at Luther, there will be a basket for these at the reception. All are invited!

Men’s Vocal Ensemble – for August 11

     A men’s ensemble will be assembled to sing at the Eucharist this Sunday, August 11, 9:30 service.  We will have one rehearsal, that morning at 8:00 a.m.  (coffee provided!)  Contact Cantor Cherwien if you would like to sing, or simply come Sunday August 11, at 8:00 am.

     Women! There will be a women’s ensemble assembled to sing for the liturgy on August 25. Protocol will be exactly the same: one rehearsal on the 25th at 8 a.m. with music available upon request beforehand by contacting Cantor Cherwien.

Congregational Care Comes to the Forum

     The art of giving and accepting care will be a forum topic during the coffee hour on Sunday, October 13.  Many at Mount Olive find themselves in the role of caregiver while others find themselves in the often unfamiliar spot of having to accept care from others.  While we tend to think of this as an “old people’s problem”, this is a generational concern as people care for aging parents, sick friends, special needs children, and ourselves.

     Key to care is knowledge of services and programs available in our state and city and how to access them.  While most of us know a little bit about some things, laws change and it is hard to keep up.  The forum could address a variety of topics, such as:

–  End of life issues – how to plan for known and unknown entities and how to access help.  Learn about health care directives, Hospice, and plan your funeral.

–  Family support – shifting roles, new responsibilities, changes in and losses of a loved one.  What will you need to help get through the tough times?

–  Unexpected life transitions – i.e. divorce, suicide, chronic illness, parenting small and adult children, and all the unanticipated twists and turns of life.

– Spiritual resources – accepting God’s grace through the loving action of the Mount Olive community.  We all need to learn and be open to how this works.

     This is a tall order for one forum!  The final shape of the hour depends on what topical interest emerges as a “high demand” priority.  Please weigh in via phone, email, or conversation by contacting Marilyn Gebauer at 651-704-9539 or by email at gebauevm@bitstream.net.  Feel free to speak with any of the other members of the Congregational Care Committee: Cathy Bosworth, Peggy Hoeft, and Warren Peterson.  

Guests from Germany

      You’re invited to meet Pr. Helge Voigt, a friend of Mount Olive who is currently a pastor in the Leipzig Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Germany.   Pr. Voigt has worshiped with us in the past and he and his family will be visiting in the Twin Cities for two weeks in August.   There is a gathering planned for them at Mount Olive on Wednesday evening, August 14, at 7 p.m.  Refreshments will be served.

     Pr. Voigt grew up in the former Democratic Republic of Germany (East Germany) under the Communist regime, in a non-religious family.  He served in the East German military and was a soldier at the time that the Berlin Wall fell.  He has some interesting stories about that harrowing time and also about how he became a practicing Christian called to the ministry.  He serves several parishes in and around Leipzig, including one which houses the organ that Mendelssohn played as a performer.

      Plan to come to meet Pr. Voigt, his wife Anke, and their daughters Marie (age 17) and Hannah (age 12).    If you get a chance, RSVP to the church office or email Lora Dundek at lhdundek@usfamily.net.  If you forget to RSVP, come anyway!