Accent on Worship

     Some years ago, I was invited to Charla’s wedding. That day. At the hospital. Entering her room, I was overwhelmed by two powerful realities—Charla was within hours of dying. And God was present in ways I could not begin to explain. After that experience, a friend asked, “Why do you think you were there? What is God up to?”

     Several years later, I still wonder. It was not the first time, or the last, that I have been nudged by those questions. Most of the time, I confess, my response is, “I have no idea. I’m just walking here.” Events like these call us to take notice. And friends ask the questions that draw our focus to where God is at work. We realize that our life, or our perception of our life, is about to change forever. Our vision is cracked open, expanded a bit, and we see that the picture is much larger than we thought. A little at a time, the picture comes into focus.  
]
     Mary had one of those experiences when the angel came. One moment it was life as usual, the next she was trying to absorb the reality of being a mother, to one who would be called “Son of God,” who would inherit the throne of David. Mary’s understand-ing of herself and her life were forever altered. Suddenly, Mary was aware of how deeply connected she was, to God and the history of her people, in a way she hadn’t been before.

     Mary adjusted remarkably quickly, (much more quickly than I do!) telling the angel, simply, to let it be. As I would do years later, Mary sought out a friend to help her begin to see her new reality a little more clearly. And, Mary continued to ponder throughout her life. When we experience those moments when life shifts unexpectedly, we are invited to ponder with her . . .  “God, what are you up to?”

– Vicar Meagan McLaughlin

Sunday Readings

December 21, 2014: Fourth Sunday of Advent

 2 Samuel 7:1-11, 16
Psalmody: Luke 1:46b-55
Romans 16:25-27
Luke 1:26-38
______________________

December 28, 2014: The Holy Innocents

Isaiah 61:10—62:3
Palm 148
Galatians 4:4-7
Luke 2:22-40

This Sunday’s Adult Forum: December 21:

“A Christmas Gift From Our Ancestors: Of the Father’s Love Begotten, A Hymn Study,” presented by Susan Cherwien

Fair Trade Craft Sale – One More Sunday

     The Missions Committee will continue to host the fair trade sale for one more week.  Purchase beautiful and unique fair trade items made by artisans in developing regions around the world.  These items are available from SERRV, a nonprofit fair trade organization whose mission is to eradicate poverty wherever it resides by providing opportunity and support to artisans and farmers worldwide.

     The handcrafted fair trade items will be available for purchase after both services on December 21 (cash and check only).  See the attachment to view some of the items that will be for sale.  Fair trade coffee, tea, cocoa, and chocolate from Equal Exchange will also be available.  This is not a fund-raiser, just an opportunity to buy good products for a good cause.    

Transitions Support Group    

     All are welcome to drop in and visit the Transitions Support Group to see if this is a place where you might find some solace and reassurance for the challenges or uncertainties that are before you.  This is an opportunity to share in fellowship, prayer, and discussion with others in the Mount Olive community.          

     Please note the time and location for our next meeting.  The next session meets Saturday, January 10, 9:00 am at the home of Richard & Grace Wiechman, 3120 E. Minnehaha Parkway, Minneapolis. It will be facilitated by Amy Cotter and Cathy Bosworth.  If you have questions, please contact Cathy at 612-708-1144 or marcat8447@yahoo.com.

Book Discussion Group’s Upcoming Reads

     For their meeting on January 17, (postponed one week because of the Conference on Liturgy) they will read, The Thirteenth Tale, by Diane Setterfield. For the meeting on February 14, they will read,  Wise Blood, by Flannery O’Connor.

The Book of Esther: Thursday Evening Bible Study Concludes

     Vicar McLaughlin is leading a study on the Book of Esther, exploring the historical context and many issues raised in this book, including justice, violence, power and privilege, the role of women, the presence of God, and what it means to be called “for such a time as this.”

       This study meets in the Chapel Lounge on Thursday evenings, beginning with a light supper at 6:00 pm.

     This Bible study runs through this Thursday, December 18.

Annual Conference on Liturgy: “Common Ground: Hearing the Word Through the Lectionary”
Friday–Saturday, January 9-10, 2015

     Each Sunday at Eucharist, Christians of many different traditions gather to be fed by Word and Sacrament and share the same readings from Scripture. In the Revised Common Lectionary there is a visible sign of the unity of the Church for those who know they encounter the same Word of God each week with their sisters and brothers in many places.

     This year at Mount Olive’s annual Conference on Liturgy we will explore the richness of this shared, “common” tradition, consider the ways that the use of a common lectionary can bless the life of the parish, and ask questions of its place in the present and future life of the churches who use it.

     The keynote speaker this year is Dr. Gail Ramshaw; workshop presenters will be Pastor Joseph Crippen, The Rev. John Setterlund, and Dr. Paul Westermeyer.

     Registration fee for Mount Olive members is $35/person.

Christmas Wish Tree

     There are needs and wishes on the tree outside the West assembly room (near the coat room) from two families who hope to have a Merry Christmas this year. If you are able, please take an ornament and bring back the wish it names by this Sunday, December 21.  These gifts can be put in the box outside the upstairs kitchen.

     Thank you!

– Anna Kingman

La Natividad

     This is a wonderful neighborhood participation opportunity – to witness the nativity story come alive in our own neighborhood! In the Heart of the Beast Theater, along with St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, will present LA NATIVIDAD – a bilingual telling of the Christmas story. Audience members move with the puppet actors and process with Maria and Jose as they seek shelter. The show moves from Lake Street to St. Paul’s for the Nativity and celebration with music and food.

     This event continues on December 18, 19, 20, 21, at 6:30 pm, starting at In the Heart of the Beast Theater (1500 E. Lake St.). Individual and group tickets are available online at hobt.org.

     Flyers with additional information are available at church.

Thanks to the Mount Olive Foundation!

     After over 25 years of regular use, the ovens and range in the Undercroft kitchen have been retired.

     This past week the new South Bend natural gas range and oven as well as the new South Bend double convection gas ovens were delivered to Mount Olive.

     The Mount Olive Foundation provided funds to purchase the appliances.

     Thanks also to Gail Nielsen, Carla Manuel, Mark Pipkorn, Bern Youngblood, Aric Sorenson, Tim Pipkorn, Ted Thompson, Sexton William Pratley, and Andrew Andersen for their work on the installation project.

     Stop and take a look at them next time you are in the Undercroft!

Alternative Gift Giving

     Are you looking for something different to do this year for Christmas gifts?  Take part in a growing tradition by giving gifts that help those in need.

     The Missions Committee is promoting the idea of alternative gift giving this Christmas.  For example, in honor of a loved one you can buy a month of food for a child orphaned by AIDS through ELCA Good Gifts.  We have catalogues from different charitable organizations that you can use or you can order from the organizations’ websites.  Some of these organizations are:

Evangelical Lutheran Church in America
www.elca.org/goodgifts

Lutheran World Relief
http://lwrgifts.org/

Heifer Project International
http://www.heifer.org

Common Hope http://commonhopecatalog.myshopify.com/

Bethania Kids
http://bethaniakids.org/creative-giving-catalog/

Christmas Worship Schedule

Christmas Eve, December 24
     9:30 pm – Choral Prelude
     10:00 pm – Holy Eucharist

Christmas Day, December 25
     9:00 am – Christmas Carry-In Breakfast
     10:00 am – Festival Holy Eucharist

The Holy Innocents, Sunday, December 28
8:00 & 10:45 am – Holy Eucharist
No adult or children’s education

The Name of Jesus, Thursday, January 1, 2015
10:00 am – Holy Eucharist

Second Sunday of Christmas, January 4
8:00 & 10:45 am – Holy Eucharist
9:30 am – Education hour resumes 

The Epiphany of Our Lord, Tuesday, January 6
7:00 pm – Festival Eucharist

They’re Here!

     Many have been looking for the current edition of the Christ In Our Home devotion booklet. A quick call to Augsburg revealed that there were some problems with this issue at the printer, and delivery was delayed.

     They have now arrived and are in the narthex for those who wish to pick one up.

Planning a Reception?

     Thanks to Gail Nielsen and Carla Manuel for recruiting crews to cook and serve for one funeral, one wedding, a new member brunch, and the Advent luncheon for seniors within recent months.

     If you would like assistance in planning a reception at Mount Olive, contact Gail at 612-825-9326 or via email to her at gmninmpls@hotmail.com.

Mount Olive History Books

     Copies of Mount Olive’s 100th anniversary history book, The Faith of Our Forebears, are out and available at church for those who would like one.

     If you don’t have a copy (or even if you do!), please help yourself!

Movin’ On Up!

     With the creation of an additional office on Mount Olive’s main level, the Neighborhood Ministries office has moved upstairs!

     Anna Kingman’s office is now next to Pastor Crippen’s office, and Vicar Meagan’s office is in the newly created office across the hall from Cantor Cherwien’s office.
   

Staff Christmas Gifts

     The six people who work at Mount Olive serve us and God in many and exciting ways.   At a recent congregational meeting I stated that it feels as though Mount Olive is “humming on all cylinders” right now, and that is due in large part to our capable and faithful Pastor Joseph,  Vicar Meagan, Cantor David, Neighborhood Ministries Coordinator Anna, Administra-tive Assistant Cha and Sexton William.  Each year we provide a Christmas gift for them, and we want to remind you of that opportunity again.  Please submit your monetary gifts to the church office or in the offering plate.  Checks should have “Staff Christmas Gift” noted on the memo line.   We have been able to be very generous in the past, and I thank you in advance for your gifts this year.

– Lora Dundek, Vestry President

End of Life Planning

The Congregational Care group will sponsor a conversation at Mount Olive about end-of-life planning on Sunday, Feb. 1 and Saturday, Feb. 7.

     Additional information about this event will be shared in The Olive Branch after Christmas.

Mount Olive Christmas Cards

     There are still some of the Mount Olive Christmas cards available for sale this year. The cards cost $2.50 each if you buy 5 or less.  If you buy 6 or more they are $1.75 each. The cards are available in the church office and will be available Sunday mornings.  Please contact Paul Nixdorf or Andrew Andersen with any questions.

Christmas Carry-In Breakfast

     All are invited to come to Christmas Day Eucharist an hour early for a Christmas breakfast together, beginning at 9:00 a.m. Bring a favorite breakfast or brunch dish to pass.

Help with the Greens – Up and Down!

     Many hands make light work, and there are several opportunities for people to help decorate the nave and chancel for our Christmas celebrations at Mount Olive.  This  Sunday, Dec. 21, after second liturgy, is the hanging of the greens, where all wreaths and roping are placed.  Any who wish to help, just come to the nave after coffee time.

     Also, and probably most important given it’s more easily forgotten, the taking down of the greens and trees will happen on Wednesday, Jan. 7, beginning at 8:30 a.m.  In particular, this last task requires a lot of hands, so having a good group come will make the work much easier.

House Sitter / Pet Sitter

     Do you need a house sitter or pet sitter while you are on vacation or away on extended business? Are you aware of someone who needs a caretaker for their home while on sabbatical?

     If so, contact Andrew Andersen at 763-607-1689 or by email to andrewstpaul@gmail.com for more info.  The person who is available for this is active in the Mount Olive community. He does not drive so possible engagements must be on or near to a bus or light rail line in Minneapolis or St. Paul.

Accent on Worship

Connections

      These days we often hear “I’m spiritual, but not religious.”  There is much troubling about religious institutions of all kinds.  Many people today long for a spirituality, something of the heart and soul, that connects to a greater reality, and shy away from a religion, a human construct that can seem to work against true spirituality.

     There’s a lot we could say about this, but as we are in the middle of the season of Advent, there is something Advent could teach about “religion.”  The word comes from the Latin, and the Romans used the term as we do, in the same contexts.  Its roots are the interesting thing.  Religion is from “religio.”  “Ligio” gave us “ligament;” it’s a word of connection, linkage.  Ligaments keep muscles and bones joined and working together.  Re-ligio, religion, is in its deepest sense “reconnecting,” “relinking” with God.

     Religion can and has been corrupted by human beings of nearly every culture and faith to become a system which tries to control the divine, or control people, or any number of things which even border on evil.

     But what if we claim that deeper root?  One of Advent’s central hopes is that God has come, is coming, and will continue to come and be with us.  What if we thought of religion as our life of connection to God’s coming?  Our prayer, our liturgy, our song, our proclamation of God’s Word all serve to “re-ligament” us to God’s coming into this world and our lives.

     When we have our ligaments connecting us to God supple and in good repair, when we have “religion,” we find ourselves more deeply open to the coming of the Holy Spirit into our lives and the world.  That’s a spirituality worth praying for.  This Advent let us then also pray for “re-ligamenting,” true religion that connects us with the Triune God and each other in the saving life God is bringing to this world.

– Joseph

Sunday Readings

December 14, 2014: Third Sunday of Advent
Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11
Psalm 126
I Thessalonians 5:16-24
John 1:6-8, 19-28
 ______________________

December 21, 2014: Fourth Sunday of Advent
2 Samuel 7:1-11, 16
Psalmody: Luke 1:46b-55
Romans 16:25-27
Luke 1:26-38

This Sunday’s Adult Forum

There will be no Adult Forum this Sunday, Dec. 14.
All are invited to attend the St. Lucia Scandinavian Brunch.

Fair Trade Craft Sale

     The Missions Committee will continue to host the fair trade gift sale.  New items have been ordered for the next two weeks.  Purchase beautiful and unique fair trade items made by artisans in developing regions around the world.  These items are available from SERRV, a nonprofit fair trade organization whose mission is to eradicate poverty wherever it resides by providing opportunity and support to artisans and farmers worldwide.

     The handcrafted fair trade items will be available for purchase after both services on December 14 and 21 (cash and check only).  See the attachment/insert to view some of the items that will be for sale.  Fair trade coffee, tea, cocoa, and chocolate from Equal Exchange will also be available.  This is not a fund-raiser, just an opportunity to buy good products for a good cause.  

Transitions Support Group    

     All are welcome to drop in and visit the Transitions Support Group to see if this is a place where you might find some solace and reassurance for the challenges or uncertainties that are before you.  This is an opportunity to share in fellowship, prayer, and discussion with others in the Mount Olive community.          

     Please note the time and location for our next meeting.  The next session meets Saturday, January 10, 9:00 am at the home of Richard & Grace Wiechman, 3120 E. Minnehaha Parkway, Minneapolis. It will be facilitated by Amy Cotter and Cathy Bosworth.  If you have questions, please contact Cathy at 612-708-1144 or marcat8447@yahoo.com.

Book Discussion Group’s Upcoming Reads

     For their meeting on December 13, the Book Discussion group will read Pride and Prejudice, by Jane Austen. For the meeting on January 17, (postponed one week because of the Conference on Liturgy) they will read, The Thirteenth Tale, by Diane Setterfield.

The Book of Esther: Thursday Evening Bible Study Continues

     Vicar McLaughlin is leading a study on the Book of Esther, exploring the historical context and many issues raised in this book, including justice, violence, power and privilege, the role of women, the presence of God, and what it means to be called “for such a time as this.”

       This study meets in the Chapel Lounge on Thursday evenings, beginning with a light supper at 6:00 pm.

     This Bible study runs through next Wednesday, December 18.

Annual Conference on Liturgy: “Common Ground: Hearing the Word Through the Lectionary”
Friday–Saturday, January 9-10, 2015

     Each Sunday at Eucharist, Christians of many different traditions gather to be fed by Word and Sacrament and share the same readings from Scripture. In the Revised Common Lectionary there is a visible sign of the unity of the Church for those who know they encounter the same Word of God each week with their sisters and brothers in many places.

     This year at Mount Olive’s annual Conference on Liturgy we will explore the richness of this shared, “common” tradition, consider the ways that the use of a common lectionary can bless the life of the parish, and ask questions of its place in the present and future life of the churches who use it.

     The keynote speaker this year is Dr. Gail Ramshaw; workshop presenters will be Pastor Joseph Crippen, The Rev. John Setterlund, and Dr. Paul Westermeyer.

     Registration fee for Mount Olive members is $35/person.

Christmas Wish Tree

     There are needs and wishes on the tree outside the West assembly room (near the coat room) from two families who hope to have a Merry Christmas this year. If you are able, please take an ornament and bring back the wish it names by Dec. 21.  These gifts can be put in the box outside the upstairs kitchen.

     Thank you  
– Anna Kingman

Evening Prayer
Wednesdays in Advent
7:00 p.m.

La Natividad

     This is a wonderful neighborhood participation opportunity – to witness the nativity story come alive in our own neighborhood! In the Heart of the Beast Theater, along with St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, will present LA NATIVIDAD – a bilingual telling of the Christmas story. Audience members move with the puppet actors and process with Maria and Jose as they seek shelter. The show moves from Lake Street to St. Paul’s for the Nativity and celebration with music and food.

     This event takes place December 11, 13, 14, 18, 19, 20, 21, at 6:30pm, starting at Heart of the Beast theater (1500 E. Lake St.). Individual and group tickets are available online at hobt.org.

     Flyers with additional information are available at church.

Home Care Holiday Kits for Our Savior’s Housing

     Help brighten the holidays and ease the budget of a resident of the Our Saviour’s Housing program as they gain stability and a permanent place of their own off the streets.  Please create and bring your ‘welcome home’ gift baskets to church this week or by Sunday Dec. 14th. Suggestions for kits include: glass cleaner, toilet cleaner, all-purpose cleaner, disinfectant wipes, micro-fiber  cloths, laundry soap, sponges, fabric softener, dish soap, bleach, bathroom tissue, and paper towels.

     If you can help assemble baskets and get them to Our Saviour’s on Sunday, please meet Anna Kingman by the West Assembly room around 12:15pm. Thank you!

– Anna Kingman
Coordinator of Neighborhood Outreach and Ministry

Alternative Gift Giving

     Are you looking for something different to do this year for Christmas gifts?  Take part in a growing tradition by giving gifts that help those in need.

     The Missions Committee is promoting the idea of alternative gift giving this Christmas.  For example, in honor of a loved one you can buy a month of food for a child orphaned by AIDS through ELCA Good Gifts.  We have catalogues from different charitable organizations that you can use or you can order from the organizations’ websites.  Some of these organizations are:

Evangelical Lutheran Church in America
www.elca.org/goodgifts

Lutheran World Relief
http://lwrgifts.org/

Heifer Project International
http://www.heifer.org

Common Hope http://commonhopecatalog.myshopify.com/

Bethania Kids
http://bethaniakids.org/creative-giving-catalog/

Christmas Worship Schedule
Christmas Eve, December 24
     9:30 pm – Choral Prelude
     10:00 pm – Holy Eucharist

Christmas Day, December 25
     9:00 am – Christmas Carry-In Breakfast
     10:00 am – Festival Holy Eucharist

Weekly Centering Prayer on Advent Wednesdays 

     Centering prayer, a silent acknowledging of the presence of the Divine, is held each Wednesday evening in Advent at 6:15 p.m. in the library. Format will begin with a short reading from the Psalms, followed by 20 minutes of silence. We will end with a few moments to come together for a closing prayer.

     New to the process?  Look for brochures in the rack by the glass display case to get a more detailed description.
     Plan on joining us on Wednesday evenings during Advent for Centering Prayer, December 3, 10, and 17.

Seniors Advent Luncheon  

     Many thanks to all who helped to make this year’s Seniors Advent Luncheon a wonderful event again this year!

     It was a great afternoon of dining, singing, and fellowship for all who attended. Thanks to Anna Kingman for sharing photos of this event, they are attached/enclosed with this issue of The Olive Branch.

National Lutheran Choir Christmas Festival Concerts This Weekend:
“The Hopes and Fears of All the Years”

Fri., December 12, 2014 – (4:30 pm & 8 pm) and Sat.,  December 13, 2014 – 8pm
Basilica of Saint Mary, 88 N. 17th St., Minneapolis

     Immerse yourself in the beauty and majesty of the Basilica of Saint Mary for the National Lutheran Choir’s signature Christmas Festival Concert. During this busy season of parties, shopping and rushing around, take time to reflect upon the true meaning of Christmas through sacred song, poetry and readings.

     Tickets: $28 Adult, $25 Senior, $10 Student, age 17 and under FREE. For tickets or more information call (888) 747-4589, or visit www.nlca.com.

Mount Olive Christmas Cards

     There are still some of the Mount Olive Christmas cards available for sale this year. The cards cost $2.50 each if you buy 5 or less.  If you buy 6 or more they are $1.75 each. The cards are available in the church office and will be available Sunday mornings.  Please contact Paul Nixdorf or Andrew Andersen with any questions.

 Christmas Carry-In Breakfast

     All are invited to come to Christmas Day Eucharist an hour early for a Christmas breakfast together, beginning at 9:00 a.m. Bring a favorite breakfast or brunch dish to pass.

Help with the Greens – Up and Down!

     Many hands make light work, and there are several opportunities for people to help decorate the nave and chancel for our Christmas celebrations at Mount Olive.  On Sunday, Dec. 21, after second liturgy, is the hanging of the greens, where all wreaths and roping are placed.  Any who wish to help, just come to the nave after coffee time.

     Also, and probably most important given it’s more easily forgotten, the taking down of the greens and trees will happen on Wednesday, Jan. 7, beginning at 8:30 a.m.  In particular, this last task requires a lot of hands, so having a good group come will make the work much easier.

Staff Christmas Gifts

     The six people who work at Mount Olive serve us and God in many and exciting ways.   At a recent congregational meeting I stated that it feels as though Mount Olive is “humming on all cylinders” right now, and that is due in large part to our capable and faithful Pastor Joseph,  Vicar Meagan, Cantor David, Neighborhood Ministries Coordinator Anna, Administra-tive Assistant Cha and Sexton William.  Each year we provide a Christmas gift for them, and we want to remind you of that opportunity again.  Please submit your monetary gifts to the church office or in the offering plate.  Checks should have “Staff Christmas Gift” noted on the memo line.   We have been able to be very generous in the past, and I thank you in advance for your gifts this year.

– Lora Dundek, Vestry President

Messiah Sing
Sunday, Dec. 14 – 6:30 pm

     Join the Minnesota Chorale, under the direction of Kathy Romey, organist Lynn Trapp, and professional soloists in singing G.F. Handel’s much-loved oratorio, Messiah.
     Bring your own score (or borrow one or buy one at the event) and come to sing a long or just to listen and enjoy. The event will be held at St. Olaf Catholic Church (215 S. 8th St. in Minneapolis). Free parking is available in the Energy Ramp at 9th St. & 3rd Ave.

Accent on Worship

Connections

      These days we often hear “I’m spiritual, but not religious.”  There is much troubling about religious institutions of all kinds.  Many people today long for a spirituality, something of the heart and soul, that connects to a greater reality, and shy away from a religion, a human construct that can seem to work against true spirituality.

     There’s a lot we could say about this, but as we are in the middle of the season of Advent, there is something Advent could teach about “religion.”  The word comes from the Latin, and the Romans used the term as we do, in the same contexts.  Its roots are the interesting thing.  Religion is from “religio.”  “Ligio” gave us “ligament;” it’s a word of connection, linkage.  Ligaments keep muscles and bones joined and working together.  Re-ligio, religion, is in its deepest sense “reconnecting,” “relinking” with God.

     Religion can and has been corrupted by human beings of nearly every culture and faith to become a system which tries to control the divine, or control people, or any number of things which even border on evil.

     But what if we claim that deeper root?  One of Advent’s central hopes is that God has come, is coming, and will continue to come and be with us.  What if we thought of religion as our life of connection to God’s coming?  Our prayer, our liturgy, our song, our proclamation of God’s Word all serve to “re-ligament” us to God’s coming into this world and our lives.

     When we have our ligaments connecting us to God supple and in good repair, when we have “religion,” we find ourselves more deeply open to the coming of the Holy Spirit into our lives and the world.  That’s a spirituality worth praying for.  This Advent let us then also pray for “re-ligamenting,” true religion that connects us with the Triune God and each other in the saving life God is bringing to this world.

– Joseph

Sunday Readings

December 14, 2014: Third Sunday of Advent
Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11
Psalm 126
I Thessalonians 5:16-24
John 1:6-8, 19-28
 ______________________

December 21, 2014: Fourth Sunday of Advent
2 Samuel 7:1-11, 16
Psalmody: Luke 1:46b-55
Romans 16:25-27
Luke 1:26-38

This Sunday’s Adult Forum

There will be no Adult Forum this Sunday, Dec. 14.
All are invited to attend the St. Lucia Scandinavian Brunch.

Fair Trade Craft Sale

     The Missions Committee will continue to host the fair trade gift sale.  New items have been ordered for the next two weeks.  Purchase beautiful and unique fair trade items made by artisans in developing regions around the world.  These items are available from SERRV, a nonprofit fair trade organization whose mission is to eradicate poverty wherever it resides by providing opportunity and support to artisans and farmers worldwide.

     The handcrafted fair trade items will be available for purchase after both services on December 14 and 21 (cash and check only).  See the attachment/insert to view some of the items that will be for sale.  Fair trade coffee, tea, cocoa, and chocolate from Equal Exchange will also be available.  This is not a fund-raiser, just an opportunity to buy good products for a good cause.  

Transitions Support Group    

     All are welcome to drop in and visit the Transitions Support Group to see if this is a place where you might find some solace and reassurance for the challenges or uncertainties that are before you.  This is an opportunity to share in fellowship, prayer, and discussion with others in the Mount Olive community.          

     Please note the time and location for our next meeting.  The next session meets Saturday, January 10, 9:00 am at the home of Richard & Grace Wiechman, 3120 E. Minnehaha Parkway, Minneapolis. It will be facilitated by Amy Cotter and Cathy Bosworth.  If you have questions, please contact Cathy at 612-708-1144 or marcat8447@yahoo.com.

Book Discussion Group’s Upcoming Reads

     For their meeting on December 13, the Book Discussion group will read Pride and Prejudice, by Jane Austen. For the meeting on January 17, (postponed one week because of the Conference on Liturgy) they will read, The Thirteenth Tale, by Diane Setterfield.

The Book of Esther: Thursday Evening Bible Study Continues

     Vicar McLaughlin is leading a study on the Book of Esther, exploring the historical context and many issues raised in this book, including justice, violence, power and privilege, the role of women, the presence of God, and what it means to be called “for such a time as this.”

       This study meets in the Chapel Lounge on Thursday evenings, beginning with a light supper at 6:00 pm.

     This Bible study runs through next Wednesday, December 18.

Annual Conference on Liturgy: “Common Ground: Hearing the Word Through the Lectionary”
Friday–Saturday, January 9-10, 2015

     Each Sunday at Eucharist, Christians of many different traditions gather to be fed by Word and Sacrament and share the same readings from Scripture. In the Revised Common Lectionary there is a visible sign of the unity of the Church for those who know they encounter the same Word of God each week with their sisters and brothers in many places.

     This year at Mount Olive’s annual Conference on Liturgy we will explore the richness of this shared, “common” tradition, consider the ways that the use of a common lectionary can bless the life of the parish, and ask questions of its place in the present and future life of the churches who use it.

     The keynote speaker this year is Dr. Gail Ramshaw; workshop presenters will be Pastor Joseph Crippen, The Rev. John Setterlund, and Dr. Paul Westermeyer.

     Registration fee for Mount Olive members is $35/person.

Christmas Wish Tree

     There are needs and wishes on the tree outside the West assembly room (near the coat room) from two families who hope to have a Merry Christmas this year. If you are able, please take an ornament and bring back the wish it names by Dec. 21.  These gifts can be put in the box outside the upstairs kitchen.

     Thank you  
– Anna Kingman

Evening Prayer
Wednesdays in Advent
7:00 p.m.

La Natividad

     This is a wonderful neighborhood participation opportunity – to witness the nativity story come alive in our own neighborhood! In the Heart of the Beast Theater, along with St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, will present LA NATIVIDAD – a bilingual telling of the Christmas story. Audience members move with the puppet actors and process with Maria and Jose as they seek shelter. The show moves from Lake Street to St. Paul’s for the Nativity and celebration with music and food.

     This event takes place December 11, 13, 14, 18, 19, 20, 21, at 6:30pm, starting at Heart of the Beast theater (1500 E. Lake St.). Individual and group tickets are available online at hobt.org.

     Flyers with additional information are available at church.

Home Care Holiday Kits for Our Savior’s Housing

     Help brighten the holidays and ease the budget of a resident of the Our Saviour’s Housing program as they gain stability and a permanent place of their own off the streets.  Please create and bring your ‘welcome home’ gift baskets to church this week or by Sunday Dec. 14th. Suggestions for kits include: glass cleaner, toilet cleaner, all-purpose cleaner, disinfectant wipes, micro-fiber  cloths, laundry soap, sponges, fabric softener, dish soap, bleach, bathroom tissue, and paper towels.

     If you can help assemble baskets and get them to Our Saviour’s on Sunday, please meet Anna Kingman by the West Assembly room around 12:15pm. Thank you!

– Anna Kingman
Coordinator of Neighborhood Outreach and Ministry

Alternative Gift Giving

     Are you looking for something different to do this year for Christmas gifts?  Take part in a growing tradition by giving gifts that help those in need.

     The Missions Committee is promoting the idea of alternative gift giving this Christmas.  For example, in honor of a loved one you can buy a month of food for a child orphaned by AIDS through ELCA Good Gifts.  We have catalogues from different charitable organizations that you can use or you can order from the organizations’ websites.  Some of these organizations are:

Evangelical Lutheran Church in America
www.elca.org/goodgifts

Lutheran World Relief
http://lwrgifts.org/

Heifer Project International
http://www.heifer.org

Common Hope http://commonhopecatalog.myshopify.com/

Bethania Kids
http://bethaniakids.org/creative-giving-catalog/

Christmas Worship Schedule
Christmas Eve, December 24
     9:30 pm – Choral Prelude
     10:00 pm – Holy Eucharist

Christmas Day, December 25
     9:00 am – Christmas Carry-In Breakfast
     10:00 am – Festival Holy Eucharist

Weekly Centering Prayer on Advent Wednesdays 

     Centering prayer, a silent acknowledging of the presence of the Divine, is held each Wednesday evening in Advent at 6:15 p.m. in the library. Format will begin with a short reading from the Psalms, followed by 20 minutes of silence. We will end with a few moments to come together for a closing prayer.

     New to the process?  Look for brochures in the rack by the glass display case to get a more detailed description.
     Plan on joining us on Wednesday evenings during Advent for Centering Prayer, December 3, 10, and 17.

Seniors Advent Luncheon  

     Many thanks to all who helped to make this year’s Seniors Advent Luncheon a wonderful event again this year!

     It was a great afternoon of dining, singing, and fellowship for all who attended. Thanks to Anna Kingman for sharing photos of this event, they are attached/enclosed with this issue of The Olive Branch.

National Lutheran Choir Christmas Festival Concerts This Weekend:
“The Hopes and Fears of All the Years”

Fri., December 12, 2014 – (4:30 pm & 8 pm) and Sat.,  December 13, 2014 – 8pm
Basilica of Saint Mary, 88 N. 17th St., Minneapolis

     Immerse yourself in the beauty and majesty of the Basilica of Saint Mary for the National Lutheran Choir’s signature Christmas Festival Concert. During this busy season of parties, shopping and rushing around, take time to reflect upon the true meaning of Christmas through sacred song, poetry and readings.

     Tickets: $28 Adult, $25 Senior, $10 Student, age 17 and under FREE. For tickets or more information call (888) 747-4589, or visit www.nlca.com.

Mount Olive Christmas Cards

     There are still some of the Mount Olive Christmas cards available for sale this year. The cards cost $2.50 each if you buy 5 or less.  If you buy 6 or more they are $1.75 each. The cards are available in the church office and will be available Sunday mornings.  Please contact Paul Nixdorf or Andrew Andersen with any questions.

 Christmas Carry-In Breakfast

     All are invited to come to Christmas Day Eucharist an hour early for a Christmas breakfast together, beginning at 9:00 a.m. Bring a favorite breakfast or brunch dish to pass.

Help with the Greens – Up and Down!

     Many hands make light work, and there are several opportunities for people to help decorate the nave and chancel for our Christmas celebrations at Mount Olive.  On Sunday, Dec. 21, after second liturgy, is the hanging of the greens, where all wreaths and roping are placed.  Any who wish to help, just come to the nave after coffee time.

     Also, and probably most important given it’s more easily forgotten, the taking down of the greens and trees will happen on Wednesday, Jan. 7, beginning at 8:30 a.m.  In particular, this last task requires a lot of hands, so having a good group come will make the work much easier.

Staff Christmas Gifts

     The six people who work at Mount Olive serve us and God in many and exciting ways.   At a recent congregational meeting I stated that it feels as though Mount Olive is “humming on all cylinders” right now, and that is due in large part to our capable and faithful Pastor Joseph,  Vicar Meagan, Cantor David, Neighborhood Ministries Coordinator Anna, Administra-tive Assistant Cha and Sexton William.  Each year we provide a Christmas gift for them, and we want to remind you of that opportunity again.  Please submit your monetary gifts to the church office or in the offering plate.  Checks should have “Staff Christmas Gift” noted on the memo line.   We have been able to be very generous in the past, and I thank you in advance for your gifts this year.

– Lora Dundek, Vestry President

Messiah Sing
Sunday, Dec. 14 – 6:30 pm

     Join the Minnesota Chorale, under the direction of Kathy Romey, organist Lynn Trapp, and professional soloists in singing G.F. Handel’s much-loved oratorio, Messiah.
     Bring your own score (or borrow one or buy one at the event) and come to sing a long or just to listen and enjoy. The event will be held at St. Olaf Catholic Church (215 S. 8th St. in Minneapolis). Free parking is available in the Energy Ramp at 9th St. & 3rd Ave.

Advent People

     For me and a small group of Advent-observing friends, Advent used to be a time of scorn.  We had much to say about “the world” which didn’t share our Advent observation, jumping straight to Christmas with its commercialism and creating a lust for more “things”.  We often regarded ours as a dark time – and we longed for Christ to stomp down here, coming back to fix things once and for all.
     Now I think of that in a different way:  Christ does come back … on an ongoing basis.  Do I notice and respond to that?

     As I get older, I’ve been re-thinking this world-evaluation thing, too.  Is it really a terrible world?  (no).  Is the world perfect?  (no).  Are we humans really worthy of the gift of hope and/or good?  (yes).  I under-stand Christ to be in a lot more than I used to.  And at the end of the day (so to speak…) is Christ with me?  Has Christ been born in me again?  (yes).  The whole unconditional sense of grace – what does that mean as we regard others – including “the world” and “commercial-ism”?

     Two acquaintances we know are going through pregnancy.  People who have gone through this can develop a new understanding of Advent.  Focus changes.  Not on how horrible everything is, but the excitement and hope of the new life growing inside the woman’s womb.  The possibili-ties!  Parents do what they can to prepare for this life, to do whatever is possible to help that life be its fullest-potential in body and soul.

     For me now, this is Advent: Christ growing inside us, creating a new focus for our outlook.  Sure, there are terrible things in the world.  I wish commercialism didn’t have such a grasp on our hopes and dreams.  But we can adjust our thinking and find peace amidst it all.  In these dark days  (literally here in the Northern Hemisphere),  there is the glow of light and warmth IN us that no one can take away.
     And the commercialism and jumping the gun on Christmas celebrations?  Christ may be in that too.  It doesn’t bother me anymore.  It doesn’t take away my Advent observation.  I still appreciate our lectionary’s trajectory.  I appreciate Wednesday Vespers as a way of removal from the attempts to re-shape our observation.  Yet, I can now allow myself to also enjoy what so many others do:  the lights, the music, the smell of evergreen, the generosity,  the basic sense of good-will and genuine
cheer!

     Nothing can take away that Advent-life growing in all of us — that daily-new-life born in us.  Do we hear its heart-beat?

     Emmanuel.

-Cantor David Cherwien 

Sunday Readings

December 7, 2014: Second Sunday of Advent
Isaiah 40:1-11
Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13
2 Peter 3:8-15a
Mark 1:1-8
 ______________________

December 14, 2014: Third Sunday of Advent
 Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11
Psalm 126
I Thessalonians 5:16-24
John 1:6-8, 19-28

This Sunday’s Adult Forum – December 7:

“Poetic Exclamations in the Hebrew Bible and the Gospel of Luke,” presented by Professor Earl Schwartz of Hamline University in St. Paul, Minnesota.

Fair Trade Craft Sale

     The Missions Committee is hosting a fair trade sale.  Purchase beautiful and unique fair trade items made by artisans in developing regions around the world.  These items are available from SERRV, a nonprofit fair trade organization whose mission is to eradicate poverty wherever it resides by providing opportunity and support to artisans and farmers worldwide.  See the attachment for one of our own member’s experience with how proceeds from SERRV sales helped people in Haiti.

     The handcrafted fair trade items will be available for purchase after both liturgies on December 7, 14, and 21 (cash and check only).  See the attachment/insert to view some of the items that will be for sale.  Fair trade coffee, tea, cocoa, and chocolate from Equal Exchange will also be available.  This is not a fund-raiser, just an opportunity to buy good products for a good cause.  

Book Discussion Group’s Upcoming Reads

     For their meeting on December 13, the Book Discussion group will read Pride and Prejudice, by Jane Austen. For the meeting on January 17, (postponed one week because of the Conference on Liturgy) they will read, The Thirteenth Tale, by Diane Setterfield.

The Book of Esther: Thursday Evening Bible Study Continues

     Vicar McLaughlin is currently leading a study on the Book of Esther, exploring the historical context and many issues raised in this book, including justice, violence, power and privilege, the role of women, the presence of God, and what it means to be called “for such a time as this.”

       This study meets in the Chapel Lounge on Thursday evenings, beginning with a light supper at 6:00 pm.

     This Bible study runs through December 18.

Annual Conference on Liturgy: “Common Ground: Hearing the Word Through the Lectionary”
Friday–Saturday, January 9-10, 2015

     Each Sunday at Eucharist, Christians of many different traditions gather to be fed by Word and Sacrament and share the same readings from Scripture. In the Revised Common Lectionary there is a visible sign of the unity of the Church for those who know they encounter the same Word of God each week with their sisters and brothers in many places.

     This year at Mount Olive’s annual Conference on Liturgy we will explore the richness of this shared, “common” tradition, consider the ways that the use of a common lectionary can bless the life of the parish, and ask questions of its place in the present and future life of the churches who use it.
     The keynote speaker this year is Dr. Gail Ramshaw; workshop presenters will be Pastor Joseph Crippen, The Rev. John Setterlund, and Dr. Paul Westermeyer.

     Registration fee for Mount Olive members is $35/person.

Alternative Gift Giving

     Are you looking for something different to do this year for Christmas gifts?  Take part in a growing tradition by giving gifts that help those in need.

     The Missions Committee is promoting the idea of alternative gift giving this Christmas.  For example, in honor of a loved one you can buy a month of food for a child orphaned by AIDS through ELCA Good Gifts.  We have catalogues from different charitable organizations that you can use or you can order from the organizations’ websites.  Some of these organizations are:

Evangelical Lutheran Church in America
www.elca.org/goodgifts

Lutheran World Relief
http://lwrgifts.org/

Heifer Project International
http://www.heifer.org

Common Hope http://commonhopecatalog.myshopify.com/

Bethania Kids
http://bethaniakids.org/creative-giving-catalog/

Thanksgiving Thanks-Giving

     Thank you to all who donated and to all who helped transport our food donations to their recipients for Thanksgiving.  We received over $2,000 to share between CES and Sabathani – that’s $34,000 worth of food and care for our neighborhood! I hope you see that blessing overflowing in each day and each face on your path.

-Anna Kingman

La Natividad

     Here is a wonderful neighborhood participation opportunity to witness the nativity story come alive in our own neighborhood! In the Heart of the Beast Theater, along with St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, will present LA NATIVIDAD – a bilingual telling of the Christmas story. Audience members move with the puppet actors and process with Maria and Jose as they seek shelter. The show moves from Lake Street to St. Paul’s for the Nativity and celebration with music and food.
     This event takes place December 11,13, 14, 18, 19, 20, 21, at 6:30 pm, starting at In the Heart of the Beast theater (1500 E. Lake Street).

     Individual and group tickets are available online at hobt.org.
     Flyers with additional information are available at church.

Evening Prayer
Wednesdays in Advent
December 3, 10, and 17
7:00 p.m.

Pledges, Please

     Thanks to all who have turned in pledges. Especially because we’re facing 2015 expenditures up some 7%, at our Vestry meeting Monday, December 8—last of the calendar year—I want to report where pledges stand now compared with those a year ago. If you’ve been intending to turn in your card but haven’t quite gotten to it you’re, well, not alone. You can e-mail your pledge to Cha Posz at the church office (welcome@mountolivechurch.org). Indicate the dollar amount, whether it’s per year/month/week or whatever, and name or names (address and phone needed only if they’re different from current Mount Olive directory). Or, this Sunday put your completed pledge card in the box near the coatroom or in the Stewardship box in the office.

     Our 2015 “budget” is shorthand for the mission and ministry we do together, and it requires some collective stretching, whether we’re pledgers or nonpledgers. Thanks! —Donn McLellan, Director of Stewardship

Weekly Centering Prayer on Advent Wednesdays 

     Centering prayer, a silent acknowledging of the presence of the Divine, is held each Wednesday evening in Advent at 6:15 p.m. in the library. Led by Mount Olive members, the format will begin with a short reading from the Psalms, followed by 20 minutes of silence. At the end there will be a few moments to come together for a closing prayer.

     New to the process?  Look for brochures in the rack by the glass display case to get a more detailed description.

     Plan on coming on Wednesday evenings during Advent for Centering Prayer, December 3, 10, and 17.

National Lutheran Choir Christmas Festival Concerts:
“The Hopes and Fears of All the Years”

Fri., December 12, 2014 – (4:30 pm & 8 pm) and Sat.,  December 13, 2014 – 8pm
Basilica of Saint Mary, 88 N. 17th St., Minneapolis

     Immerse yourself in the beauty and majesty of the Basilica of Saint Mary for the National Lutheran Choir’s signature Christmas Festival Concert. During this busy season of parties, shopping and rushing around, take time to reflect upon the true meaning of Christmas through sacred song, poetry and readings.

     Tickets: $28 Adult, $25 Senior, $10 Student, age 17 and under FREE. For tickets or more information call (888) 747-4589, or visit www.nlca.com.

Mount Olive Christmas Cards
     There are still some of the Mount Olive Christmas cards available for sale this year. The cards cost $2.50 each if you buy 5 or less.  If you buy 6 or more they are $1.75 each. The cards are available in the church office and will be available Sunday mornings.  Please contact Paul Nixdorf or Andrew Andersen with any questions.

Pray for Nigeria

     Weekly we pray for Naomi and the other kidnapped girls in Nigeria. The ELCA is working closely with the Lutheran Church of Christ in Nigeria (LCCN) in this effort. This week the Lutheran Church of Christ in Nigeria is holding its General Church Assembly in Yola.  Some 200 members and leaders will gather in the Cathedral Church in Yola in the midst of killings and church burnings. We are asked to these support faithful followers of Christ with our prayers.

     In addition to your private prayers and prayers of the church at Mount Olive, you are invited to join in a Nigeria Prayer Vigil this Sunday, December 7th at Lake Nokomis Lutheran Church, 5011 31st Ave S. in Minneapolis at 5:00 p.m.

– Global Mission Committee

Help with the Greens – Up and Down!

     Many hands make light work, and there are several opportunities for people to help decorate the nave and chancel for our Christmas celebrations at Mount Olive.  On Sunday, Dec. 21, after second liturgy, is the hanging of the greens, where all wreaths and roping are placed.  Any who wish to help, just come to the nave after coffee time.

     Also, and probably most important given it’s more easily forgotten, the taking down of the greens and trees will happen on Wednesday, Jan. 7, beginning at 8:30 a.m.  In particular, this last task requires a lot of hands, so having a good group come will make the work much easier.

Staff Christmas Gifts

     The six people who work at Mount Olive serve us and God in many and exciting ways.   At a recent congregational meeting I stated that it feels as though Mount Olive is “humming on all cylinders” right now, and that is due in large part to our capable and faithful Pastor Joseph,  Vicar Meagan, Cantor David, Neighborhood Ministries Coordinator Anna, Administrative Assistant Cha and Sexton William.  Every year we provide a special Christmas gift for them, and we want to remind you of that opportunity again.  Please submit your monetary gifts to the church office or in the offering plate.  Checks should have “Staff Christmas Gift” noted on the memo line.   The congregation has been very generous in the past, and I thank you in advance for your gifts this year.

– Lora Dundek, Vestry President

 A Note of Thanks

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

     Thank you for your prayers, cards, calls, and visits. They gave me a great deal of comfort and assurance that the Lord was with me and all would be fine.

     I have asked to have my name removed from the prayer list because I am doing well. However, it will be several months before I have fully recovered, so an occasional prayer for me would be greatly appreciated.

Yours in Christ,
Mary Rose Watson

Advent People

     For me and a small group of Advent-observing friends, Advent used to be a time of scorn.  We had much to say about “the world” which didn’t share our Advent observation, jumping straight to Christmas with its commercialism and creating a lust for more “things”.  We often regarded ours as a dark time – and we longed for Christ to stomp down here, coming back to fix things once and for all.
     Now I think of that in a different way:  Christ does come back … on an ongoing basis.  Do I notice and respond to that?

     As I get older, I’ve been re-thinking this world-evaluation thing, too.  Is it really a terrible world?  (no).  Is the world perfect?  (no).  Are we humans really worthy of the gift of hope and/or good?  (yes).  I under-stand Christ to be in a lot more than I used to.  And at the end of the day (so to speak…) is Christ with me?  Has Christ been born in me again?  (yes).  The whole unconditional sense of grace – what does that mean as we regard others – including “the world” and “commercial-ism”?

     Two acquaintances we know are going through pregnancy.  People who have gone through this can develop a new understanding of Advent.  Focus changes.  Not on how horrible everything is, but the excitement and hope of the new life growing inside the woman’s womb.  The possibili-ties!  Parents do what they can to prepare for this life, to do whatever is possible to help that life be its fullest-potential in body and soul.

     For me now, this is Advent: Christ growing inside us, creating a new focus for our outlook.  Sure, there are terrible things in the world.  I wish commercialism didn’t have such a grasp on our hopes and dreams.  But we can adjust our thinking and find peace amidst it all.  In these dark days  (literally here in the Northern Hemisphere),  there is the glow of light and warmth IN us that no one can take away.
     And the commercialism and jumping the gun on Christmas celebrations?  Christ may be in that too.  It doesn’t bother me anymore.  It doesn’t take away my Advent observation.  I still appreciate our lectionary’s trajectory.  I appreciate Wednesday Vespers as a way of removal from the attempts to re-shape our observation.  Yet, I can now allow myself to also enjoy what so many others do:  the lights, the music, the smell of evergreen, the generosity,  the basic sense of good-will and genuine
cheer!

     Nothing can take away that Advent-life growing in all of us — that daily-new-life born in us.  Do we hear its heart-beat?

     Emmanuel.

-Cantor David Cherwien 

Sunday Readings

December 7, 2014: Second Sunday of Advent
Isaiah 40:1-11
Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13
2 Peter 3:8-15a
Mark 1:1-8
 ______________________

December 14, 2014: Third Sunday of Advent
 Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11
Psalm 126
I Thessalonians 5:16-24
John 1:6-8, 19-28

This Sunday’s Adult Forum – December 7:

“Poetic Exclamations in the Hebrew Bible and the Gospel of Luke,” presented by Professor Earl Schwartz of Hamline University in St. Paul, Minnesota.

Fair Trade Craft Sale

     The Missions Committee is hosting a fair trade sale.  Purchase beautiful and unique fair trade items made by artisans in developing regions around the world.  These items are available from SERRV, a nonprofit fair trade organization whose mission is to eradicate poverty wherever it resides by providing opportunity and support to artisans and farmers worldwide.  See the attachment for one of our own member’s experience with how proceeds from SERRV sales helped people in Haiti.

     The handcrafted fair trade items will be available for purchase after both liturgies on December 7, 14, and 21 (cash and check only).  See the attachment/insert to view some of the items that will be for sale.  Fair trade coffee, tea, cocoa, and chocolate from Equal Exchange will also be available.  This is not a fund-raiser, just an opportunity to buy good products for a good cause.  

Book Discussion Group’s Upcoming Reads

     For their meeting on December 13, the Book Discussion group will read Pride and Prejudice, by Jane Austen. For the meeting on January 17, (postponed one week because of the Conference on Liturgy) they will read, The Thirteenth Tale, by Diane Setterfield.

The Book of Esther: Thursday Evening Bible Study Continues

     Vicar McLaughlin is currently leading a study on the Book of Esther, exploring the historical context and many issues raised in this book, including justice, violence, power and privilege, the role of women, the presence of God, and what it means to be called “for such a time as this.”

       This study meets in the Chapel Lounge on Thursday evenings, beginning with a light supper at 6:00 pm.

     This Bible study runs through December 18.

Annual Conference on Liturgy: “Common Ground: Hearing the Word Through the Lectionary”
Friday–Saturday, January 9-10, 2015

     Each Sunday at Eucharist, Christians of many different traditions gather to be fed by Word and Sacrament and share the same readings from Scripture. In the Revised Common Lectionary there is a visible sign of the unity of the Church for those who know they encounter the same Word of God each week with their sisters and brothers in many places.

     This year at Mount Olive’s annual Conference on Liturgy we will explore the richness of this shared, “common” tradition, consider the ways that the use of a common lectionary can bless the life of the parish, and ask questions of its place in the present and future life of the churches who use it.
     The keynote speaker this year is Dr. Gail Ramshaw; workshop presenters will be Pastor Joseph Crippen, The Rev. John Setterlund, and Dr. Paul Westermeyer.

     Registration fee for Mount Olive members is $35/person.

Alternative Gift Giving

     Are you looking for something different to do this year for Christmas gifts?  Take part in a growing tradition by giving gifts that help those in need.

     The Missions Committee is promoting the idea of alternative gift giving this Christmas.  For example, in honor of a loved one you can buy a month of food for a child orphaned by AIDS through ELCA Good Gifts.  We have catalogues from different charitable organizations that you can use or you can order from the organizations’ websites.  Some of these organizations are:

Evangelical Lutheran Church in America
www.elca.org/goodgifts

Lutheran World Relief
http://lwrgifts.org/

Heifer Project International
http://www.heifer.org

Common Hope http://commonhopecatalog.myshopify.com/

Bethania Kids
http://bethaniakids.org/creative-giving-catalog/

Thanksgiving Thanks-Giving

     Thank you to all who donated and to all who helped transport our food donations to their recipients for Thanksgiving.  We received over $2,000 to share between CES and Sabathani – that’s $34,000 worth of food and care for our neighborhood! I hope you see that blessing overflowing in each day and each face on your path.

-Anna Kingman

La Natividad

     Here is a wonderful neighborhood participation opportunity to witness the nativity story come alive in our own neighborhood! In the Heart of the Beast Theater, along with St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, will present LA NATIVIDAD – a bilingual telling of the Christmas story. Audience members move with the puppet actors and process with Maria and Jose as they seek shelter. The show moves from Lake Street to St. Paul’s for the Nativity and celebration with music and food.
     This event takes place December 11,13, 14, 18, 19, 20, 21, at 6:30 pm, starting at In the Heart of the Beast theater (1500 E. Lake Street).

     Individual and group tickets are available online at hobt.org.
     Flyers with additional information are available at church.

Evening Prayer
Wednesdays in Advent
December 3, 10, and 17
7:00 p.m.

Pledges, Please

     Thanks to all who have turned in pledges. Especially because we’re facing 2015 expenditures up some 7%, at our Vestry meeting Monday, December 8—last of the calendar year—I want to report where pledges stand now compared with those a year ago. If you’ve been intending to turn in your card but haven’t quite gotten to it you’re, well, not alone. You can e-mail your pledge to Cha Posz at the church office (welcome@mountolivechurch.org). Indicate the dollar amount, whether it’s per year/month/week or whatever, and name or names (address and phone needed only if they’re different from current Mount Olive directory). Or, this Sunday put your completed pledge card in the box near the coatroom or in the Stewardship box in the office.

     Our 2015 “budget” is shorthand for the mission and ministry we do together, and it requires some collective stretching, whether we’re pledgers or nonpledgers. Thanks! —Donn McLellan, Director of Stewardship

Weekly Centering Prayer on Advent Wednesdays 

     Centering prayer, a silent acknowledging of the presence of the Divine, is held each Wednesday evening in Advent at 6:15 p.m. in the library. Led by Mount Olive members, the format will begin with a short reading from the Psalms, followed by 20 minutes of silence. At the end there will be a few moments to come together for a closing prayer.

     New to the process?  Look for brochures in the rack by the glass display case to get a more detailed description.

     Plan on coming on Wednesday evenings during Advent for Centering Prayer, December 3, 10, and 17.

National Lutheran Choir Christmas Festival Concerts:
“The Hopes and Fears of All the Years”

Fri., December 12, 2014 – (4:30 pm & 8 pm) and Sat.,  December 13, 2014 – 8pm
Basilica of Saint Mary, 88 N. 17th St., Minneapolis

     Immerse yourself in the beauty and majesty of the Basilica of Saint Mary for the National Lutheran Choir’s signature Christmas Festival Concert. During this busy season of parties, shopping and rushing around, take time to reflect upon the true meaning of Christmas through sacred song, poetry and readings.

     Tickets: $28 Adult, $25 Senior, $10 Student, age 17 and under FREE. For tickets or more information call (888) 747-4589, or visit www.nlca.com.

Mount Olive Christmas Cards
     There are still some of the Mount Olive Christmas cards available for sale this year. The cards cost $2.50 each if you buy 5 or less.  If you buy 6 or more they are $1.75 each. The cards are available in the church office and will be available Sunday mornings.  Please contact Paul Nixdorf or Andrew Andersen with any questions.

Pray for Nigeria

     Weekly we pray for Naomi and the other kidnapped girls in Nigeria. The ELCA is working closely with the Lutheran Church of Christ in Nigeria (LCCN) in this effort. This week the Lutheran Church of Christ in Nigeria is holding its General Church Assembly in Yola.  Some 200 members and leaders will gather in the Cathedral Church in Yola in the midst of killings and church burnings. We are asked to these support faithful followers of Christ with our prayers.

     In addition to your private prayers and prayers of the church at Mount Olive, you are invited to join in a Nigeria Prayer Vigil this Sunday, December 7th at Lake Nokomis Lutheran Church, 5011 31st Ave S. in Minneapolis at 5:00 p.m.

– Global Mission Committee

Help with the Greens – Up and Down!

     Many hands make light work, and there are several opportunities for people to help decorate the nave and chancel for our Christmas celebrations at Mount Olive.  On Sunday, Dec. 21, after second liturgy, is the hanging of the greens, where all wreaths and roping are placed.  Any who wish to help, just come to the nave after coffee time.

     Also, and probably most important given it’s more easily forgotten, the taking down of the greens and trees will happen on Wednesday, Jan. 7, beginning at 8:30 a.m.  In particular, this last task requires a lot of hands, so having a good group come will make the work much easier.

Staff Christmas Gifts

     The six people who work at Mount Olive serve us and God in many and exciting ways.   At a recent congregational meeting I stated that it feels as though Mount Olive is “humming on all cylinders” right now, and that is due in large part to our capable and faithful Pastor Joseph,  Vicar Meagan, Cantor David, Neighborhood Ministries Coordinator Anna, Administrative Assistant Cha and Sexton William.  Every year we provide a special Christmas gift for them, and we want to remind you of that opportunity again.  Please submit your monetary gifts to the church office or in the offering plate.  Checks should have “Staff Christmas Gift” noted on the memo line.   The congregation has been very generous in the past, and I thank you in advance for your gifts this year.

– Lora Dundek, Vestry President

 A Note of Thanks

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

     Thank you for your prayers, cards, calls, and visits. They gave me a great deal of comfort and assurance that the Lord was with me and all would be fine.

     I have asked to have my name removed from the prayer list because I am doing well. However, it will be several months before I have fully recovered, so an occasional prayer for me would be greatly appreciated.

Yours in Christ,
Mary Rose Watson