Americanlutheranchurch@yahoo.com 818 846 0295www.americanlutheranburbank.org

A congregation of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA)

SPRING NEWSLETTER 2013Dear disciples of Jesus at American Lutheran,

On Epiphany Sunday I shared a recent epiphany of my own—a vision that came to me of where God might have us focus our ministry this year. My vision was “hospitality.” How might we build on our strengths to become an even more welcoming congregation than we already are? This vision did not come out of nowhere. Last year our Congregational Council articulated eight goals including: welcoming strangers; neighborhood visibility; addressing the needs of fellow members; and exploring becoming a Reconciled in Christ congregation that welcomes all people regardless of their sexual orientation. At the root of these goals is hospitality.

Every week we have guests who join us in worship. Young adults who have moved to Los Angeles to pursue their dream of working in the entertainment industry. Snowbirds who come from other parts of the country to enjoy our milder winters. People of all ages seeking a spiritual connection with deeper purpose and meaning in their lives. How might we better welcome these guests, listen to their stories, and accept the gifts they bring to our community? “Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by doing that some have entertained angels without knowing it” (Hebrews 13:2). This passage from Scripture reminds us that hospitality not only welcomes strangers, but recognizes their holiness.

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At our January Council meeting, the newly elected members embraced my vision as our vision for 2013. Together we have begun reading and discussing the book, The Welcoming Congregation, by Henry G. Brinton, as part of our devotions each month. Our Future Facility Task Force is assessing our physical site and will make recommendations to the Council regarding ways to improve our buildings and grounds in terms of hospitality. A welcoming task force will soon be launched to look at other practices such as having greeters at our worship services. In addition we will want to come up with a Welcome Statement for our website and other publications to communicate our intention to welcome all people into our midst.

Hospitality of course is not a means to an end. Our efforts are not intended to be a recruitment strategy for new members. Rather this is something we are simply called to do because we are Christians. We welcome others as Christ first welcomed us, affirming that Jesus died for the whole world—not just for those inside the church.

As we continue to grow as faithful followers of Christ, I pray that hospitality will be a powerful key to our identity, and that our church will truly be a place where all are welcome.

Your partner in the Gospel,

Pastor Gretchen

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A MESSAGE FROM YOUR PRESIDENT

Here we are deeply ensconced in winter. I just looked out on my deck and my back yard has been transformed into solid white from a burst of hail that covered the lawn. Living here in the desert, things like that are especially amazing and are always cause for pause.

What I’m pausing on is the reflection that we’re about to pass from Epiphany into Lent. Lent is that time for reflection and contemplation of our Christian journey. I sometimes think about Jesus wandering around out in the desert for 40 days and nights. I wonder what he was doing besides praying and telling Satan to go take a hike. I have a hard time with 10 minutes of patience, let alone 40 days. My thoughts roam from thinking the Lord was out there camping and gathering his own food to thinking that his dear father left him what he needed to get by behind a cactus or under a rock somewhere.We really don’t get to know. It’s another mystery for us to embrace.

Whatever it was, Christ finally completed the task and headed back to the civilized world armed with his Father’s mission even more firmly internalized.

It kind of makes me wonder at times what I’m armed with as a disciple and what my mission is. I’m not an evangelist. Not by any stretch of the imagination. In fact I’m generally a bit suspicious of evangelists. You know, that guy with the big megaphone who stands on the corner mumbling loudly that the end is near.

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That’s okay. I don’t have to be that guy. I believe we’re all saved by grace and the doom sayer is no less loved than those of us who let our actions replace our words.

So I’ve learned in recent years that Lent is often not about what you give up for the time leading to Easter but it can often be more about what you take on.

A few years ago I practiced great discipline by giving up listening to the radio in my car during Lent. It was hard for the first few days but then I almost didn’t miss it at all. In fact I was able to think without distraction and I probably was a better driver during that time too.

A few years after that I decided that I would practice one of the 12 recovery steps during Lent. That step is the 11th one. It says, ‘sought through prayer and meditation to improve our conscious contact with God, as we understood God, praying only for knowledge of God’s will for us and the power to carry that out. ‘

So I started the practice of stopping in to our beloved sanctuary every day for a 20 minute visit with God. It’s just remarkable how it affects just about every aspect of life. I thought I was undistracted by not listening to the radio but that was nothing compared to what happens during the course of a day after you’ve tried to shut down your mind in worship for 20 minutes.

I can tell you I’ve become a better listener, a better boyfriend, a better musician, less uptight, more compassionate and just generally more able to cope with the crazy things that interrupt everyday life.

So I think this year, with our increased emphasis on hospitality, I ‘m going to take on for Lent being a bit more of a welcoming member of the congregation. That means actually extending a hand, asking a question, answering one, or just saying hello. Not my natural inclinations.

I hope the upcoming season of Lent is rich in contact with God for all of us and that however, if at all , you practice the observance of this great season that our Lord and Savior will continue to reveal his awesome blessings to each of us.

Deyo Blake

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Lent, Holy Week and EasterRenew your spirit during the season of Lent in the 40 days leading up to our celebration of Jesus’ resurrection on Easter Sunday. Lent concludes with Holy Week, the high point of the church year for Christians around the world. Plan now to join your community of faith as we center our lives in the saving story of Jesus Christ our Lord.

Lenten midweek gatherings: Wednesday evenings March 6, 13 and 20. Soup and Study at 6pm with discussion on “Making Sense of the Cross.” Meditative worship with readings, candlelight, silence and prayer using the musical liturgy “Holden Evening Prayer.”Palm/Passion Sunday March 24 th 10:00am Holy Week begins with the triumphal shouts of “Hosanna” as we remember Jesus’ entrance into Jerusalem on the way to the cross. Worship begins on the patio as we then process inside the sanctuary singing and waving our palms. The shouts of “Hosanna” are then transformed to shouts of “Crucify” as we hear the Passion Gospel from Luke. Maundy Thursday March 28 th 7:30pm: Taken from the Latin word “command” we hear the mandate to love one another in this service, which Jesus showed to his disciples by washing their feet. Our worship on this night also commemorates the institution of the Lord’s Supper. Four of our young people will be receiving their First Communion at this service.Good Friday March 29 th 7:30pm: Through word and music our Good Friday Tenebrae Service helps us reflect on the suffering and death of Jesus Christ. Tenebrae is a word derived from Latin meaning “darkness.” As the service moves from light into darkness, the diminishing light symbolizes the fading devotion of the apostles as well as the gradual dying of our Lord.Resurrection of our Lord March 31st 10:00am: On Easter Sunday we proclaim with joy that “Christ is Risen! He is Risen indeed!” Our festive worship includes special music from a brass quartet joining our choir and musicians. Invite your friends and family to join us as we celebrate the central event of our Christian faith—hope and new life through the resurrection of Christ. Our celebration continues after worship with an Easter brunch and egg hunt for the children.

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News Around The ParishDaily Devotions for Lent booklets are available at the church entrance for your use at home. “Followers of the Cross” includes a Bible passage, prayer and reflection written by Lutheran theologian Martin E. Marty, known as one of the most prominent interpreters of religion and culture today. These devotions will explore how people of the past drew closer to Christ through the cross and how we, too, can follow the cross more closely in our daily walk. Suggested donation is $2.

Daylight Savings Time begins at 2am Saturday, March 9th. Remember to spring forward and set your clocks ahead so you’re not late to worship!

Synod Assembly delegatesWe are looking for a member of our congregation to serve as our male delegate for the annual assembly of our Southwest California Synod, May 30-June 1st in Woodland Hills. Susan Anderson and Pastor will also be attending, and we are eligible to send one of our youth (14-30 years old) as an additional voting member. In addition to worship, Bible study and learning more about the Synod’s ministries, the business portion this year will include electing a new bishop. Talk to Pastor if interested.

Church CouncilThe Congregational Council meets each month at 7:00pm in the nursery/lounge area in the Administrative Office Building. These meetings which are typically held the second Tuesday of each month are always open to ALC members. If you would like a brief time to address any issues with the Council, please be in touch with President Deyo Blake (818-842-9444) at least a week prior to the meeting to be put on the agenda.

Council & Congregation ChatIn order to keep the lines of communication open, the Congregational Council invites members and friends to discuss current church business from time to time with the Council. The next informal meeting is scheduled for Sunday, March 17th, following the 10am worship service.

First CommunionInstruction for older elementary children will be held the first 4 Sundays in March following worship in preparation for their first communion on Maundy Thursday,

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March 28th. Please speak with Pastor for more information.

New Welcome cardsThanks to Mark Baker, Deacon of Vision Planning, for the new welcome cards to give to guests who worship with us. Feel free to take a few and give them to friends and neighbors as an invitation to join us at church.

Christ in our Home booklets for April, May and June are available now for your personal devotional use at home. They include daily Bible readings, reflections and prayers.

Blood DriveSalem Lutheran Lutheran Church, 1211 N. Brand Blvd in Glendale is sponsoring a Blood Drive with the American Red Cross on Sun. April 7 from 8am-2pm. To schedule an appointment visit redcrossblood.org and enter sponsor code: salemluthglendale or contact Corinne at Corinne.devries@gmail.com. A flyer with this information is available on the table at the church entrance.

Spring Conference AssemblyOur congregation is part of the Twin Valleys Conference of the Southwest California Synod of the Evangelical Church in America (ELCA). Each year representatives from our church meet with those from the other 19 congregations in this conference in the spring. This year we meet on Sat. April 13th, 3-5pm at Bethel Lutheran in Encino. The theme, “Welcoming Congregations,” is very pertinent with our congregation’s theme of “Hospitality” this year. The speakers at the conference will be emphasizing:

Welcoming Immigrants Welcoming LGBT community Welcoming Veterans Welcoming Youth and Young Adults

Please talk to a member of Council if you are interested in attending.

The 2013 Flower Chart is hung on the wall in the gathering space inside the church entrance. Sign up for a date you would like to donate flowers for worship ($40). Please note if you wish for the flowers to be in memory or honor of a person or occasion and put “flowers” on the memo line of your check made payable to American Lutheran Church. The following upcoming dates are still open: 6/9, 8/4, 9/15, 9/29, 10/6, 10/13, 10/20, 11/10, 11/17, 12/15. Thanks to those who help bring beauty to our worship

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space each Sunday!

Website updatingWe are looking for a volunteer to do occasional updates to our website, such as adding new pictures. This is something that could be done from your home computer and there are training links to walk you through step by step. Please talk to our secretary Melanie or Pastor if you’re able to help out (818-846-0295). Thanks!

The Burbank Human Relations Council, for the 28th year, will sponsor the 2013 Days of Remembrance (Yom Hashoah) community program on Tuesday, April 23 at Temple Beth Emet in Burbank. The main speaker will be David Hofmeyer, a retired teacher and poet. His parents were Holocaust survivors and his grandfather won a Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine. There will also be a book signing. ALC will again be a co-sponsor of this moving and inspiring program.

Souper Bowl of Caring A big thank-you to all who brought cans of soup on Super Bowl Sunday, Feb. 3rd. We were able to contribute 38 cans to Lutheran Social Services and 27 cans to Burbank Temporary Aid Center for a total of 65 cans of soup to replenish their food pantries. Baskets are in the gathering space of the church for other donations of non-perishable food that we collect throughout the year.

Thrivent Bus Trip Members and guests of Thrivent are invited to a trip to the Reagan Presidential Library on Sunday April 14th. The bus will pick up people here at American Lutheran as well as making stops at Emmanuel in N Hollywood and Salem in Glendale. There is room for 57 people so sign up today. For more information talk to Bob Nicol or Bill Reardon, our Thrivent representatives.

Milestones

BaptismJosie Emma Moran baptized January 13, 2013

born November 6, 2012 to Erika Schreiber and Frank Moran

In MemoriamSigrid Reid

Octover 25, 1939 – January 29, 20138

Volunteer Ser vice AwardThis is the first year American Lutheran recognized a member with the Volunteer Service Award. Pastor Gretchen brought this idea to the council a few months ago and we all agreed that this would be a nice way to recognize members of our congregation that give of their time and talent to American Lutheran and to our community. It also gives us a chance to thank these volunteers for giving of their time so generously, and it may encourage us all to follow in their footsteps. We received a good number of nominations so the council had a difficult decision to make. Each of the nominees we reviewed was very deserving of the honor but we had to pick one, and we unanimously agreed on our first recipient of the Volunteer Service Award for 2012.The first recipient of the Volunteer Service Award is a long time member that began her service to the church at a young age. At the age of 13, shortly after joining American Lutheran Church she served as an assistant kindergarten Sunday School teacher. Subsequently, she also served as a co-sponsor of the Luther League and was a member of the choir until 1960, when she took some time off to “raise young

Lutherans” as her husband so aptly reports. More recently she serves as a Bible study leader, prayer group leader, and refreshment provider. Each week she ensures that Maria in the nursery has all of the supplies she needs for after service refreshment time, as well as often sharing her own home made baked goods. She also organizes the baking and distribution of Christmas cookies to elderly members, shut-ins, and assorted other congregation members. She also, along with the women of ALC is very dedicated to the Lutheran Social Services program sending health and school kits to young people all over the world. She, and the rest of the women, organize American Lutheran Church’s efforts in getting these kits together and delivered. This member has attended countless synod women’s functions and often provides transportation for others to these events, she also has attended conventions and meetings concerning other Lutheran interests. She is a wonderful representative of our congregation at these functions and we appreciate her willingness to help our congregation in this way. We thank and honor Vi Reardon as American Lutheran’s 2012 Volunteer Service Award recipient.

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BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS !MARCH, APRIL, MAY

We recognize and celebrate birthdays and anniversaries typicallyon the last Sunday of the month at Fellowship time following worship.

MARCH BIRTHDAYS

March 6 Ashley Shinn March 22 Hazel CressMarch 7 Pastor Gretchen March 28 Eric HarrisonMarch 8 Soleil Garcia March 30 Alma BauerMarch 10 Lucas Sanchez March 30 Tim ReardonMarch 22 Pat Anderson March 30 Evan SanchezMarch 22 Deyo Blake March 31 Quiara Garcia

APRIL BIRTHDAYS

April 5 Steve Jarbo April 13 Auggie GarciaApril 10 Sue Mavro April 25 Kari RohrApril 10 Dorothy Swisher

MAY BIRTHDAYS & ANNIVERSARIES

May 2 Carma Phillips May 17 Hannah RichardsMay 6 Debra Jarbo May 21 Herb WirtzMay 9 Lisa Argenziano May 22 James KassenborgMay 11 Mykala Listorti May 22 Mike LawrenceMay 12 Michael Teen May 23 Chon SanchezMay 12 Ron Reid May 25 Melanie SalisburyMay 16 Ben Woods May 30 Jared Salisbury

May 5 – Damian and Lisa Baker's wedding anniversary

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StewardshipThe Joy of Giving Continuing the theme of our annual response program last fall, the following is an article by Margaret Payne, bishop of the New England Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.

“The primary way that God has helped me grow into a deeper awareness of the joy of giving and the dangers of the myth of scarcity has been through the witness of faithful Christians who have taught me and guided me with their wisdom and ways of giving. I remember my mother’s joy in tithing our small income and her certainty that God would always provide for our family. She reminded me regularly that it was a blessing to want less. I remember Richard, in Africa, who shared with me his great sorrow for Americans who had so little time to spend with loved ones because they worked such long hours to accumulate wealth. I remember the parade of saints in congregations who taught me lessons all along the way in my ministry. There was Katy, who set aside $50 each month as “God’s Mad Money” to give away as the Spirit moved her heart. Marge felt that a day without giving was a day without living. John looked forward to all the “grow in giving” sermons and grew joyfully, even though he was on a fixed income. Through these years of learning, I began to realize that the people who had the least often gave the most. As income increases, so does greed, and the power of money to lure us away from sacrificial giving. As abundance grows, the myth of scarcity grows in our hearts. The myth of scarcity is a place of poverty and death. The truth of God’s abundance is the place where we will find authentic life, the eternal life that God gives us through Jesus Christ.”

Beyond the Fiscal CliffThe charitable benefits of the American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012 vary based on each individual’s personal financial situation. The following aspects of the new tax may impact your past, present, and future charitable decisions:

IRA Charitable Rollover

Individual Income Tax Rates on Ordinary Income

Long-term Capital Gains

Alternative Minimum Tax

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Gift and Estate Taxes

Itemized Deduction Limits

Personal Exemption Limits

Various Deductions and Charitable Extenders

For further information regarding your own charitable plans, contact our congregations gift planner, Greg Shepherd at 909-910-6823 or by email at:gregory.shepherd@elca.org

Does your place of employment offer matching funds for charitable gifts? Many companies do and that is another way to increase your giving to the church. For more information talk to our Treasurer Susan Anderson (susanlovesalc@yahoo.com)

Enjoy the convenience of electronic givingOur church participates in “Simply Giving” which allows you to make donations on a scheduled, automatic basis. If you are writing checks and preparing envelopes every week, you will especially appreciate electronic giving. It is convenient for you and provides much-needed donation consistency for our church. To get started simply complete the authorization form inside the brochure on the table in the gathering spaceand return it to the church office. Donations can be debited automatically from either a checking or savings account. Questions? Talk to our financial secretary Pauline Meyer: 818-842-5044; paulinemeyer214@att.net.

New Taxes and Charitable SolutionsCapital gains and other taxes have been increased. You may not think this applies to you. However, when you go to sell an appreciated asset, you may end up in a highertax bracket that is affected by the new tax laws. You may want to consider a charitable solution that allows you to avoid both federal and state capital gains taxes, and possibly provide tax favorable income. For further information, contact our congregational gift planner, Greg Shepherd at: (909) 910-6823 or by email at:gregory.shepherd@elca.org

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From the Endowment CommitteeThe American Lutheran Endowment Committee is happy to announce the donations that have been made to charities on the Church’s behalf. The Endowment Fund distributes earnings that it makes on the fund principle. This year the Endowment Committee voted to donate $1000 to the ELCA Benevolence Fund, $1309 to the Burbank Temporary Aid Center, and $500 each to Family Promise, ELCA Malaria Campaign, Lutheran Social Services, and $500 towards scholarships for ALC youth to attend youth ministry events or camps.

The principle of the American Lutheran Endowment Fund is invested and its earnings are distributed to charities that serve the mission of American Lutheran Church. Please consider making a donation to the fund. It is a donation that will continue to give to worthy ministries year after year. For more information contact Rick Harrison, Chair of Endowment Committee at eh617@aol.com or 818 641 1121.

SW California Synod NewsMission Trip Opportunties There are two very exciting mission trips this year available to congregations of the synod. There will be a young adult mission trip to Tecate, Mexico in April and a trip for those who are interested in our companion synod in El Salvador can travel in August.

Young Adult Mission Trip to Tecate, MexicoAll young adults ages 18-35 are welcome to attend the Lutheran Young Adult Mission Trip April 12-14, 2013. This mission trip is open to any young adult in the Southwest California and Pacifica Synods. Young adults will have a time for service and fellowship, travel to Tecate, Mexico and will be volunteering at the Rancho San Juan Bosco Boys' Ophanage and Rancho La Paloma Ministry Center.The cost will be $125 per person and scholarships are available. Click here to download the information and registration packet.For more information or to express interest, please contact: Abby Hollingshead (937-623-4954) or Michael Smayda (914-610-9594) or email.

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Summer El Salvador Mission TripCongregations can come find sister Lutheran churches to partner with in El Salvador. The trip will be August 1-August 10, 2013. Please send a person or small group representing your congregation to find a sister church for mutual prayer partnership and encouragement for both congregations! The cost is $775 per participant, covering lodging and meals, plus airfare. For more information, please contact Trip Leader Julie Jacks at 310-798-9081 or Pastors Kristian and Anna-Kari at 773-990-0814.

All women are invited to the Synod Woman's Gathering of 1000 days movement on Saturday, April 20th from 9:00am to 12:00pm at All Saints....the 1000 days between a woman's pregnancy and her child's 2nd birthday are very critical as far as nutrition is concerned. The right nutrition can have a very profound impact on a child's ability to grow, learn, and rise out of poverty. Pastor Gretchen will be leading the Bible Study. There will be an eclectic Celtic music presentation. Reg. Is $10.00 and includes brunch. See Vi Reardon if you would like to go or contact her on 818 353-5563 or billrrdn@verizon.net.

You are welcome to attend the “Clutterology” Senior “OWLS” Ministry Seminar on Tuesday, March 12, 10am-Noon at Salem Lutheran Church, 1211 N. Brand Blvd., Glendale. Seniors often find themselves overwhelmed by the amount of stuff they have collected over the years. TLC Network's Real Simple, Real Life., professional organizer, Jodie Watson will be the guest speaker and will address this important topic. To sign-up, please email Diane Haig at diane@salemglendale.org or call 818 243 3193.

Habitat for Humanity of Greater Los Angeles is looking for Lutheran VolunteersWednesdays through Saturdays from 8:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. in Lynwood, CACome help complete this year's Thrivent Builds Home for the Luna Family! Contact Chris Untiet, HFH GLA Faith Relations Manager at (424) 246-3622 or chrisu@habitatla.org for more information.

Lutheran Justice GroupWhat should you do someone you love has been arrested, accused of a felony? There is almost no time to think about it. The Lutheran Justice Group will listen to you and suggest avenues to follow. These are pastors and experienced lay people, including a lawyer, from the San Fernando Valley area who may be able to guide

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you to a direction to go, no matter whether the person is accused justly or unjustly. You do not have to be a Lutheran to be served by the Lutheran Justice Group. Email:splatts@lausd.net.

Summer Camp: Lutheran Retreats, Camps and Conferences (LRCC) is a year-round outdoor ministry providing Christ centered programs. Summer programmingincludes two camps: El Camino Pines and Yolijwa, and two different Beach Camp sites. There are program options for youth as young as 2nd grade through high school. There is also a Staff in Training program for 16 and 17 year olds. To register visit www.LRCChome.com/register. There are discounts for early registration (by March 30th) and siblings. For more information talk to Pastor Gretchen.

Outreach Opportunities/Community News“Lutherans Looking Forward Breakfast” is another big success!About 285 people came for breakfast, fellowship, and some “first person,” accounts of how Lutheran Social Services helps people in need. One couple tearfully told their life as a family of four in one room, waiting to use the bathroom, and hoping to use the kitchen. Lutheran Social Services and United Way arranged for an apartment for this very grateful and deserving young family.Another woman who had been homeless told of her opportunity to get an apartment with the help of Lutheran Social Services and the United Way.Pastors shared our motivations for helping the needy, citing as their text the second half of the 25th chapter of the Gospel of Matthew.It was an exciting, moving, exhilarating morning of inspiration, good fellowship and challenge.

Jan Maseda, Lutheran Social Services Area Director, told us that the roll of persons helped by Lutheran Social Services have increased 25% over last year at this time.The Lutherans of the Year are Clarence Hall of Saint Stephens Lutheran Church in Granada Hills, who has tirelessly worked in support of Lutheran Social Services for years, and David Burtch of Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church, who has served Lutheran Social Services in many capacities. Congratulations to you both!The Congregation of the Year is Central Lutheran Church which has caught the vision of its ministry to its neighborhood and neighbors through hosting and supporting Lutheran Social Services. Congratulations!

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Tooth brushes and deodorant are still very much in need at Lutheran Social Services.

Don’t forget the Lutheran Social Services annual golf tournament coming up on May 13, 2013!For more information, please call Lutheran Social Services Area Director Jan Maseda at 818-901-9480

Lutheran Social Services LA North Chapter is always so grateful to receive American Lutheran Church’s donations of non-perishable food items and clothing. Lutheran Social Services also wants congregations to remember that monetary donations given to LSS allow them to purchase large amounts of food at reduced prices from the LA Regional Food Bank. These monetary donations go a long way in stocking their food pantry. Lutheran Social Services has also put out a request for special food items that their pantry is lacking.At this time they are in great need of individual serving type food items with pop-tops, such as soups, cup of noodles, etc. If you are doing your shopping and run across any items that fit this bill, why not purchase a few and drop them off in the baskets in the narthex? Thank you so much for your continued support of Lutheran Social Services. Contact Bob Nicol, at (818) 845-6943 or r_nicol@msn.com with any questions.

Volunteers needed for Lutheran Social Services If you have a 10-12 or 1-3 time slot Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday or Friday – we have plenty for you to do here at LSS! Please call us on 818 901 9480 if you can help in the food pantry, clothes closet or with food pick-ups and deliveries.

ELCA For up to date news please click on www.elca.org/global-links.In February, American Lutheran Church received a thank you letter from the ELCA for our recent gift of $500.00 towards the ELCA Malaria Campaign. Our faithful generosity has made life-changing, life-saving differences to 11 African nations. In the first half of 2012, malaria education programs were held twice weekly by Lutheran churches throughout Zimbabwe. Even as this work goes on, medical clinics are being equipped and staffed for the treatment of those who have been infected. Not long ago, a child in Africa dies of malaria every 30 seconds. Now that figure is one child every 60 seconds. That's a big difference – but we're not done yet. As the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) we do more together than we ever could do alone. We are a church that believes God is calling us into the world – together.

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Employment Opportunity Forest Lawn is looking for caring and compassionate sales representatives to join their Advance Planning Team. Advance Planners are provided with sixteen weeks of classroom and field training, superior administrative and management support, flexible hours, and the opportunity to sell at six different locations. Also offered are competitive benefits including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, a 401 (k) plan with an employer contribution and much more. For more information please call Rina Hernandez at 323 340-4575 or visit their website at www.forestlawnadvanceplanning.com

Jobs Available for Experienced Caregivers, CNA's & Home Health AidsLifeline Companion Services provides private duty in-home care to seniors and the disabled. Contact 818-980-8818 or Email: infor@lesinhomecare.com

Smile Senior Care Smile Senior Care Inc. provides professional assistance with Alzheimers, Dementia, Meal Preparation, Hospice Care, Transportation, Laundry, Hospital Sitting, Exercises, Respite Care, Light Housekeeping, Running Errands and Day to Day Activities. For more information please contact Sylvia Cheikosman at 818 745 6135 or email her at sylvia@smileseniorcare.com

Homeless Youth Outreach Program “Hope for Homeless Youth” is in urgent need of donated cars, vans and trucks. We are a nonprofit Christian ministry that rescues and feeds homeless, run away youth. We will pick up your vehicle in any condition. Our ministry is located at the L.A. Dream Center and a “Ministry Center” in South Central L.A. We give a $2000 internet product voucher and tax deductible receipt. Contact Pastor Clayton at (213) 820-8305 or email to PastorClayton@gmail.com can sign up to bring individual food items or a

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A joint ministry of Valley Baptist & Westpres Church

CONFLICT HOARDERSResolving conflict in marriage

Please come and attend this free 4-week seminar series taught by a local minister and therapist at St. Joseph Hospital, and his wife. The purpose of the seminar is resolving conflicts and improving honesty by communicating boundaries.

In general, this is all about building better relationships and learning how to resolve relationship problems. To understand and communicate our boundaries is to face and deal with… 1) A difficult person in our lives; 2) Learning how to say “no” so we don’t overextend ourselves and become overstressed; 3) Learning how to say “yes” to patterns of intimacy and relatedness so we can participate in values that God wants us to live by; 4) Learning how to protect ourselves and discern how to give so someone is not taking more of our time, energy and resources.When we have good boundaries, we are focusing on improving our relationship, and not trying to fix, change or control the other person and assuming a role that God is designed to do.

The presenters for this 4-week series are Rev. Phillip & Cynthia Kiehl (www.PhilKiehl.com). This couple is passionate about helping and teaching all people how to say “yes” and “no” for the purpose of focusing on God and themselves versus the tendency we all have, which is to overextend ourselves by trying to fix or please others which only leaves us frustrated, unhappy and filled with guilt.…Seminars take place FOUR TUESDAYS in April beginning on…Tuesday, April 9, 2013 from 7:00 – 8:30 p.m.Tuesdays, April 16, 23, 30 will be held from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m. at

VALLEY BAPTIST2201 W. Alameda Ave. – Burbank, CA

(818) 845-7871 http://www.vbcburbank.org

Child care will be available by calling the church office (818) 845-7871 and requesting it prior to the meeting. The cost of the child care will be $5 per couple.

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Lutheran World Relief for up to date news please click on news@lwr.org your support makes it happen.AfricaIn the West African countries of Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger, where the expanding Sahara Desert threatens people’s already-fragile livelihoods—we are building water systems and providing job training so women and men can boost their income. In the disease-ravaged East African countries of Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda—weare teaching important health lessons to prevent diseases like malaria, providing training to boost incomes and partnering with the Gumutindo coffee farmer’s association. Asia and the Middle East,In Asia and the Middle East, you will find LWR working to end the human suffering caused by natural disasters and discrimination. We were one of the first relief organizations to provideemergency response in Sri Lanka and Indonesia following the 2004 tsunami, and we continue our work today through the rebuilding process. In India and Sri Lanka—we work with the outcasts of society and vulnerable populations, including women, to form empowerment groups and provide them with income-generating opportunities. In Nepal, Indonesia and the Philippines, where impoverished people struggle against frequent natural disasters —we are training communities on ways to minimize their risks and create emergency systems, and to generate the income to rebuild. Latin AmericaHaiti — disaster relief and rebuilding projects.In El Salvador, Honduras and Nicaragua — helping protect communities from disasters and providing training and support for coffee and cocoa farmers, so they can boost their production and make a better living through Fair Trade. In Colombia, Bolivia and Peru — helping indigenous and displaced people earn more income, protect their health, get involved in civic life and safeguard their communities from future natural disasters.

B.T.A.C. The food pantries of Burbank Temporary Aid Center are in urgent need of food. Add these items for donation to your shopping list and bring them to worship and place them in the baskets provided. Spaghetti, Cereal, Rice, Canned Tuna, Beans, Mac and Cheese, Pop Tops Soups.

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CHURCH STAFFPastor: Gretchen Bingea pastorbingea@yahoo.orgChoir Director: Dr. Steven Kronauer

singingsteven@aol.comKeyboardist: Ulf AnnekenChurch Secretary: Melanie Salisbury (818) 846 0295Custodian: Auggie GarciaNursery: Maria OchoaBookkeeper : Diane BonnerFinancial Secretary: Bob Norgauer

CONGREGATION COUNCIL

President: Deyo BlakeVice-President: Cyndie Griffin Secretary: Joni StanfordTreasurer: Susan AndersonDeacon of Discipleship: Michelle Lambert

(Worship & Music, Education, and Stewardship)Deacon of Outreach: Bob Nicol

(Evangelism and Social Service agencies and issues)Deacon of Congregational Care: Gloria Garcia and Desiree Garcia

(Pastoral Care, Christian Service, and Fellowship)Deacon of Vision Planning: Mark Baker

(Congregational Planning and Goal Setting)Trustee of Administration: Chon Sanchez

(Financial Management, Buildings and Grounds)Pastor Gretchen Bingea

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READINGS AND WORSHIP SERVANTS FOR MARCH

March 3, 3rd Sunday in Lent Isaiah 55:1-9 Reader: Melanie SalisburyPsalm 63 Acolyte:Lindsay Reardon 1 Corinthians10:1-13 Refreshments: Potluck Luke 13:1-9 March 10, 4th Sunday in Lent

Joshua 5:9-12 Reader: Bill Reardon Psalm 32 Acolyte:William Reitter

2 Corinthians 5:16-21 Refreshments:Dorotea PaulusLuke 15:1-3, 11b-32

March 17, 5th Sunday in Lent Isaiah 43:16-21 Reader: Lynn DeYoungPsalm 126 Acolyte: Quiara Garcia Philippians 3:4b-14 Refreshments: John 12:1-8

March 24, Sunday of the Passion, Palm SundayIsaiah 50:4-9a Reader: Dorotea PaulusPsalm 31 Acolyte: Philippians 2:5-11 Refreshments: Luke 22:14-23:56

March 28th, Maundy Thursday March 29, Good FridayExodus 12:1-4, 5-14 Reader: Isaiah 52:13-53:12 Reader: Psalm 116 Acolyte: Psalm 22 Acolyte: Lexi Garcia1 Corinthians11:23-26 Hebrews 10:16-25John 13:1-17, 31b-35 John 18:1-19:42

March 31, Resurrection of Our Lord Acts 10:34-43 Reader Psalm 118 Acolyte:Quiara Garcia1 Corinthian 15:19-26 Refreshments: Easter Brunch PotluckLuke 24:1-12

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READINGS AND WORSHIP SERVANTS FOR APRIL

April 7, 2nd Sunday of Easter Acts 5:27-32 Reader: Jayne Lundquist

Psalm 118 Acolyte: Olivia Salisbury Revelation 1:4-8 Refreshments:

John 20:19-31

April 14, 3rd Sunday of Easter Acts 9:1-6 (7-20) Reader: Dorotea PaulusPsalm 30 Acolyte: Nicole Reardon Revelation 5:11-14 Refreshments: Dorotea PaulusJohn 21:1-19

April 21, 4th Sunday of Easter Acts 9:36-43 Reader: Psalm 23 Acolyte:Revelation 7:9-17 Refreshments: John 10:22-30

April 28, 5th Sunday of EasterActs 11:1-18 Reader: Bill ReardonPsalm 148 Acolyte:Revelation 21:1-6 Refreshments: Birthday Celebrations John 13:31-35

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READINGS AND WORSHIP SERVANTS FOR MAY May 5, 5th Sunday of Easter

Acts 16:9-15 Reader: Psalm 71 Acolyte: Lexi Garcia

1 Corinthians 13:1-13 Refreshments: Luke 4:21-30

May 12, 7th Sunday of EasterActs 16:16-34 Reader: Psalm 97 Acolyte:Nicole ReardonRevelation 22:12-14, 16-17, 20-21 Refreshments: Matthew 61-6, 16-21

May 19, Day of PentecostActs 2:1-21 Reader: Psalm 104 Acolyte:Romans 8:14-17 Refreshments: John 14:8-17 (25-27)

May 26, The Holy Trinity, 1st Sunday after PentecostProverbs 8:1-4, 22-31 Reader:Psalm 8 Acolyte:Romans 5:1-5 Refreshments: Birthday CelebrationsJohn 16:12-15

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Prayers (NOTE: People on the prayer list are members and family and friends of members of the congregation. Please notify the church office when the person you have placed on the list has recovered from their illness, injury or surgery.)

LET US PRAY FOR THE WHOLE PEOPLE OF GOD IN CHRIST JESUS, AND FOR ALL PEOPLE ACCORDING TO THEIR NEEDS:

IN REST HOME OR HOMEBOUND: IN REST HOME OR HOMEBOUND:George Settlemyer, Maria Finance, Helen Eide, Jerry Redman, Bob Hammond, Barbara Berry, Loraine Nelson, Lydia Huard, Alma Bauer, Louise and Joe Roberts, Lorraine Hunter, Norm and Mavis Allen, and Beverly Pitts. FOR HEALING: Wahil Martin, Ruud Fundter, Gene Listorti, Ron White, Kathy Licusi, Andy Payaslyan, Pat Hamilton & her mother, Marko Axt, Sarah Biller, Caitlin Cottrell, Betty Murphy, David Cochran, Ben Froelich, Pauline Meyer, Eileen Wirtz, Mary Pittman, Tracee Murphy, Gretchen Fritz, Damon Jacobsen, Bruce Grossman, Kathy Licursi, Joe Orchard, Charles Mostert, Dottie Johnson, Louise Brown, Lori Lindia, K.N. Scungelli, Connor Ricca, Kevin Reardon, Jill Anderson, Peter Axt, Heather Smith, John Pitt, Auggie Garcia, Jaci White, Christian Teen, Becky Marrone, Glenn Chaney, Herb Wirtz, Don Walter’s Sr., Donna Nicholson, Dick Engh, Don Phillips, Ginger Serface, Suzanne Baricman, Barry Tindell, Brandon MaCaskill, Jarol LeGate, Tim Kimmerling, Danny Yonan, Gwendolynn Hughes, Garret Turney, Olipio Monte, Mike Salvo, Carl Von Kennen, Ron Marks, Paul Stanford, Jordan Queen, Loretta Roeder, Judy Williams, Clelly Coffey, Sara Chavez, John Sullivan, Zosia Adamowicz, Mary Stanford, Carma Phillips, Joe Kimmerling, Willem Maugenest, Petra Ochoa, Salavador Ochoa Snr, Allen Kimmerling, Robert Meza Sr., Bud Fickler, Bruce Aumont, Armen Gogjian, Michael Sayko, Jerry Ellis, David Berg, Lawrence MacDonald, Brian Moore, Jameson Anthony, Eleanore Babchuck, Kate Thorp, Robert Paulus, Kathy Smith, Alice Peisch, Jerry Provinceo, Candice Rodriguez, Jahn Hansen, Roger LaPlante, Kate McGrade, and Donna Shilling.

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THOSE IN MOURNING THE LOSS OF LOVED ONES: Jahn Hansen, Sylvia, Maria, Sig Reid, Dorothy Nagle, and of our soldiers lost in military action.

PRAYER PARTNERS: Redeemer Lutheran, Bakersfield; Iglesia Luterana San Pablo, North Hollywood; and the New City Parish.

OTHERS: Those serving in our nation’s military - Jason and Matt Cave, Courtney Sustaire, Lyndsie Duemmel, Justin Ochoa, Erik Frederickson, those who seek employment, may they find work, Tim Miller, teaching music in Japan; Sandi Horen, mission work in Madagascar, and families and victims of violent crimes.

PRAYERS OF THANKSGIVING: Maurice Mann.

INTO YOUR HANDS, O LORD, WE COMMEND ALL FOR WHOM WE PRAY, TRUSTING IN YOUR MERCY THROUGH YOUR SON, JESUS

CHRIST, OUR LORD. AMEN.

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With this Spring issue we continue with our quarterly newsletter that will be printed and posted on-line in June, September, December and March of each year. With more people using the internet we are now able to communicate in a more timely way through weekly e-mail updates, and on our website and facebook page. The quarterly newsletter allows for longer articles and reflections from members in our church community. Please feel free to add your own submissions highlighting a ministry or involvement at church. The deadline is the 15th of the prior month.

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FROM: AMERICAN LUTHERAN CHURCH755 N. WHITNALL HWYBURBANK, CA 91505

CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED

Our Mission

AMERICAN LUTHERAN CHURCH IS CALLED TO WITNESS THE GOOD NEWS OF GOD’S LOVE THROUGH SERVICE IN OUR

COMMUNITY AND BEYOND.

SPRING 2013