Christ Lutheran Newsletter January 2014

EEcchhoo 22..00 Share God’s Word, Share His Love, and Do It Now!

Christ Lutheran

Christ Lutheran 605 South Fifth Street, Norfolk, NE 68701

www.clnorfolk.org 402-371-1210

Lynn Walmsley prepares the office for Christmas. More photos on pages 2 and 11 of preparations and celebrations for Advent and Christmas at Christ Lutheran.

Annual Report and Voters Assembly The Annual Report, featuring reports of the past six months’ activities and the goals for the next six months for each board of the congregation, will be distributed at the Voters’ meeting scheduled for Sunday, January 19, 2014. Further information about the accompanying meal and the fellowship activities can be found on page 9 in this issue of ECHO 2.0.

What’s the Point? By DCE Jared Stiek It is hard to accomplish something if you don’t know what you are supposed to be doing. No matter what task comes our way, it is important to know the goal. Tasks in life become more meaningful when you know why you are doing them. We could come at this same point with several important questions: What’s the point? What’s the goal? Why are we doing this?

As God’s people gathered in this congregation, what is our purpose, what is our goal, why are we members of this congregation? We gather in God’s house to receive His gifts of love and forgiveness in worship each weekend. We gather for fellowship with our brothers and sisters in Christ. We gather to learn about and explore our God-given faith. We serve alongside one another in this congregation, community, and throughout the world to share God’s Word and love with others through our words, actions, offerings, and service.

Next question, what’s the point of senior high youth ministry? Senior high youth are young people of faith maturing into their role in the body of Christ. They are continuing to learn about the faith given to them at baptism and professed at their confirmation. They enjoy fellowship with one another as they build relationships with other believers. They serve together as they explore what it means to share Christ’s love through actions, compassion, and mercy. They learn how to participate in the congregation as future leaders, board members, teachers, musicians, and other servants of the church.

In order to “Share God's Word, share His love, and do it now,” our senior high youth ministry is moved by God’s love to IMPACT. That is moved by God’s love to be involved with our brothers and sisters in Christ, maturing in faith, proclaiming His Word, adoring Him for His gifts to us, and showing compassion for others, together.

We have a goal, so what do we do? This is a driving question behind the planning, preparation, and decision making that goes into senior high youth ministry. The studies, activities, service projects, retreats, youth gatherings, and events that we design for the young people of this congregation must serve our goal.

continued on page 9

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Christ Lutheran Advent and Christmas Family Photo Album

Stephen Ministers Linda Pohlman, Deb Kesting, Bonnie Begeman and Darlene Davis visit at the Stephen Ministry Advent Gathering on December 2.

Eunice Brandt and Shelly Freudenburg perform a Christmas skit at Priscillas’ Annual Christmas Dinner held on December 3.

Connie Zimmerman from the Milk House at Pierce offered Priscillas decorating tips using repurposed items.

Students faithfully practice after school for the Sunday School Christmas service on December 18.

The Fellowship Hall Christmas Tree was beautifully decorated by Kathy Karmazin and enjoyed by numerous groups during the Advent season.

The first weekend in December was a time of celebration as seven children were received into God’s family through the washing of Holy Baptism.

Thank you to Kristin Spiering, Neta Gubbels, Sarah Moje and Joan Meyer for their help in making the baptismal banners for each child.

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Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Sundays

at Christ Lutheran School

Children’s Ministry Lisa Moreno, Children’s Ministry Coordinator

lmoreno@clnorfolk.org

Sunday School Attendance Awards A number of students had outstanding attendance during the fall quarter of Sunday School:

Those who had perfect attendance are: Jaslyn Peters, Ally Moreno, Esther Molina, Ronald Molina, Benjamin Gebhardt, and Sam Jagels.

Those with just one absence are: Willow Sullivan, Daisy Begeman, Micah Gnewuch, Clara Praeuner, Henry Begeman, Lindsay Beeks, Oliver Begeman, Amber Bockelman, Jonathan Praeuner, Payton Weis, Rebecca Gebhardt, Temo Molina, Hunter Mewis, Hailey Mewis, and Luke Neisius.

Mad Science Night January 15 Since September, children have been enjoying fun and games one Wednesday night during the month. They have enjoyed a foot party, marshmallow night, minute to win it, and other fun games. The Kids’ Fun Night is held the second Wednesday of each month, from 6:30 – 8:00 p.m., when parents of seventh and eighth grade confirmation students will be attending confirmation class with their children. All children age 3 through grade 6 are welcome! During January, we will be having Mad Science Night! Children will have the chance to use everyday items to create some neat experiments, and also learn more about God’s amazing creation! Because of the many supplies needed for this month, please register by going online to clnorfolk.org or calling the church office, so we can plan for the number of students who will be there. Please register by Monday, January 13!

January Children’s Ministry Schedule Sunday School will continue to meet as usual throughout the Christmas school break. January 5: Sunday School – The Boy Jesus in the Temple (craft station) January 12: Sunday School – The Baptism of Jesus (skit stations) January 15: Kids’ Fun Night – MAD SCIENCE January 19: Sunday School - John Prepares the Way (experiment and snack station) January 26: Sunday School – Jesus Calls the First Disciples (craft /activity station)

Sunday School Offerings During the months of December, January, and February, Sunday School students are collecting offerings for the Jesus Our Savior Lutheran Outreach and preschool in Winnebago, Nebraska. Many items, including snacks, crafts, blankets, and children’s books were collected at the Sunday School Children’s Christmas Service on December 18, and were delivered to the mission. One of their teachers, Sheryl Tietz, will be visiting our Sunday School on Sunday, January12, to tell us more about this mission, and share some pictures. Don’t miss this opportunity to see how our offerings will help others hear the Gospel of Jesus! Our monetary offerings will help purchase children’s hymnals and provide scholarship money for students to attend the preschool.

Sunday School children lift their voices in praise during their Christmas service.

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Successful Run for New Bible Study By Arlene Range The first phase of Christ Lutheran’s new Bible Study, “An Hour with Paul, the Apostle” adjourned following eleven weeks of study this Fall. The second phase will begin at the church on Thursday, January 9, 2014 at 9:30 a.m. to run for nine weeks (or more). Attendees have decided to extend the class hour to one and a half hours in January; the reason being, “It seems we just get started and the hour is over! I’m learning a lot and it’s so interesting!” So far, the class has read and discussed Paul’s letter to the Philippians and the People’s Bible Commentary explanation of that book of the Bible. The study of Colossians was underway and will be resumed in January.

The class is participant driven. Members help one another in many ways as they read the text aloud, together, stopping whenever there are points to discuss or unravel. Numerous explanatory aids from our church library have proven helpful. When a satisfactory answer evades the class, the question is taken to one of the pastors at their convenience with the answer brought back to the next session. Each participant has their own copy of the People’s Bible Commentary at this point.

Participants begin each session by joining their hearts and voices in this prayer: Gracious God, I ask Your blessings on me when I hear, read, study, confess and believe Your Word. It assures me that through the death and resurrection of Jesus, I receive forgiveness of my sins and the certain hope of eternal life! Shower Your blessings on me through your Word that I may grow in my faith in Jesus as my Savior from sin and the Lord of my life. Amen.

The class looks forward to welcoming new participants in January. You will find this method of study comfortable, enriching, surprising and fun! Come and visit! Call the Church Office for more information or the facilitator at 402-844-3359.

Sunday Morning Adult Bible Class

Epiphany 2014

Share  God’s  Love January 5 With  “Nones”

January 12 With Spiritual Seekers Who Believe  “Everything”

January 19 With Pro-Choice

January 26 With  Family  Who  Won’t  Come  to Church

February 2 With the Poor

February 9 With the Rich

February 16 With the Community of Norfolk (Report of LCMS Project)

February 23 With Extremist Fundamentalists and Liberals

Changing Currents Young Adult Bible Study, Supper, & Fellowship

Young Adults Sunday, January 12 …7:00-8:00 p.m. Christ Lutheran Green Youth Room

(in school building) Dessert provided

Creation Unraveled: The Gospel According to Genesis We will begin as a group and then split

into male and female small groups for discussion.

Are you in your 20’s or 30’s and looking for people in your age group to study the Word of God with? Then we have two great groups that fit those criteria for you.

Adult Bible Studies Pastor Leon Rosenthal – lrosenthal@clnorfolk.org

For more information contact: DCE Amanda Bell – abell@clnorfolk.org

Young Families Sunday, January 12

5:00-7:00 p.m. Pot Luck

Christ Lutheran Helping Hands building

Young Families January 12

5:00-7:00 p.m. Pot Luck

Christ Lutheran, Helping Hands building

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Principal Steve Stortz – sstortz@clnorfolk.org

Christ Lutheran School

Technology Initiative Moving Forward At its November Board of Education meeting the board gave the green light to move forward with an initiative that has been in the works for a year. But it started long before that. As far back as 2009 when CLS hosted the Nebraska District Educators Conference one of our workshop presenters who serves as the technology “guru” for all the schools in the Missouri Synod, shared that if Lutheran schools are not willing to keep up with technology, they might as well close the doors. Those were strong words. However, when looking at the Lutheran school system as a whole, unfortunately the number one reason for sending children to a Lutheran school is no longer because they are Lutheran.

So at no cost to the school, beginning in 2011, Mr. & Mrs. Stortz began attending national conferences of parochial schools that shared best practices for schools wanting to begin a one-to-one program with laptops or other computing devices. Funding, implementation, professional development and infrastructure are just a few of the necessary pieces.

Our first step is underway. Upon returning from Christmas break, each teacher from preschool through grade 8 will have an iPad for use as an instructional tool before the month is over. Several teachers already are using personal iPads or ones they acquired in other ways.

Once funding is in place, the plan is to have an iPad for each student in grades 6-8 and 2 ipads in each classroom below those grade levels. These will be replacing computers which will no longer run software used in our reading program. Stay tuned for more information!

Kindergarten Open Houses Planned Do you have a child who will be attending kindergarten in the fall of 2014? Come to one of our open houses to learn more about our kindergarten program, meet the teachers, meet some new and old friends, and find out what a Christian education can mean for your child. Open houses are scheduled for Tuesday, January 28 from 3:30–5:00, Tuesday, February 11 from 6:30–8:00 and Thursday, February 27 from 6:30-8:00.

CLS Art Teacher Grace Hanft Honored You may have seen a familiar face on the front page of the Norfolk Daily News last month. CLS is rejoicing with Mrs. Hanft as she was recognized for having a work of art purchased by MONA (Museum of Nebraska Art), in Kearney. Grace Hanft has been the art teacher at CLS for the past 7 1/2 years. Although she majored in art in her undergraduate coursework at Concordia Teachers College in Seward, Christ Lutheran presented her first opportunity to teach art beyond that of a regular classroom situation.

In order to teach art she felt it was important to do art herself, and so she joined the Norfolk community art club. It is part of a larger organization of artists all across Nebraska called the Association of Nebraska Art Clubs (ANAC). Each year artists enter works of art in local competitions and then some proceed to a statewide juried show.

This past summer she had two pieces of art entered in the state competition. The first was a mono-print titled “Count Your Blessings” and the second piece was a collage called “Lavender Bouquet”. The second piece was chosen to receive the MONA purchase award and it will soon be part of their permanent collection.

At a distance this painting, which is a watercolor collage, just looks like a pretty vase of flowers. But as you get closer, you see the multi-colored feathery textures of the various art and rice papers which have been stained with watercolor paints and torn into small shapes. The papers are layered and glued to the surface with Matte Medium. It’s a rather tedious process, but one which she finds challenging, like a puzzle, and a unique way to do watercolors.

Did You Know? Many families made use of SCRIP for their CHRISTmas shopping. During the second week of December alone we sold $28,110 of SCRIP. This resulted in $1,250.67 going to help families reduce their tuition!

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Happy New Year! by Sarah Moje As we begin a new calendar year, Christ Lutheran Preschool is getting ready for a different kind of new year. Registration for the 2014-2015 school year will start on January 8. Even though the current school year is only half over, early planning for the following school year is important as we look at class schedules and staffing needs. Christ Lutheran Preschool partners with parents to develop spiritual, physical, mental, and emotional abilities in each preschooler. The children benefit from learning in a developmentally appropriate, Christian environment. Parents are confident that Christian teachers, who have a passion for sharing the love of Jesus Christ, care for their child. We offer three options for families. There is a five-day program that meets Monday through Friday for children who are four years old by July 31, 2014. A three-day program meets Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays and a two-day program meets Tuesdays and Thursdays. These classes are for children who are at least 3 years old by July 31, 2014. All classes are half-day programs with the morning sessions running from 8:10-11:10 a.m. and the afternoon sessions running from 12:25-3:25 p.m.

Tuition is paid in ten monthly installments. Rates for the current school year are: $79 for the two-day program, $109 for the three-day program, and $179 for the five-day program. Rates for the 2014-2015 school year will be set by the Board of Education at the January meeting. There is also a non-refundable registration fee. Enrollment spaces are limited and will be filled on a first come, first served basis. Registration forms will be available at the school office or on our school website at www.clnorfolk.org on Wednesday, January 8. Completed forms and registration fee should be returned to the school office.

For additional information, please call the school office at 402-371-5536. Teachers, Sarah Moje, Phyllis Glaser, and Grace Hanft would be happy to discuss curriculum and other information about our Christ-centered program.

Christ Lutheran School

On December 16, the students of Christ Lutheran School proclaimed the Good News of the Savior’s birth during our annual Christmas concert. The weather was cooperative as we presented to a full house.

School Dates to Note December 23-January 7 Christmas vacation for students January 6-7 Teacher Work Day & NLSA Work Day January 8 Classes resume January 10 All school meeting January 17 School Carnival 6:00; everyone invited January 19 State of the Church Voters Meeting January 25-26 Boys Roundball tournament January 28 Kindergarten Open House 3:30-5:00

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Ski Trip Friday, January 3 As of this writing, over 20 youth and adults were signed up to participate in a fun day of skiing at Great Bear Ski Resort in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. This is an annual junior high event that many young people look forward to. We were able to open registration up to senior high youth this year to further encourage interaction between the two groups.

January Service Event to Benefit Lutherans for Life and Orphan Grain Train Sunday, January 12 from 3:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. About Lutherans For Life Mission: Equipping Lutherans to be Gospel-motivated voices for Life. Vision: Encouraging every Lutheran congregation to uphold the God-given value of human life and influence society to do the same. Junior High youth will be meeting in the Fellowship Hall to hear about Lutherans for Life and to work on a service project they have planned for the youth. Following this, participants will move to the Blue Youth Room to fold clothes as part of an ongoing service project with Orphan Grain Train. Bring positive attitudes and creative minds so we are all able to work together to help others.

Future Events for Your Calendar

February 23 Bowling Shoe/lane rental $5 per person for 2 hours

March: Month of service More details to follow

March 5 Ash Wednesday Meal Fundraiser Sign up sheet and more information to follow

March 28 -29 Grade 8 Confirmation Retreat April 27 Game Day

June 6-8 Junior High Summer Servant Weekend Fargo, North Dakota More info to come out soon

Photo left: Makenzie Fuxa, Hope Blomenberg, Andrea Jagels, Brooke Rosberg and Emma Rosberg were some of the participants at the Junior High District Gathering held in Aurora, Nebraska in November.

Information on Upcoming Events

Confirmation Class

- Jan. 15 Parents Attend

- Jan. 22 - Jan. 29

January 3 – Ski Trip - 7:00 a.m.-8:45 p.m. January 12 – Lutherans for Life

- 3:00 p.m. -5:00 p.m. Meet in Fellowship Hall

Like Us on Facebook Be sure to check us out on Facebook and on the Junior High page of the Church website!

Confirmation and Junior High Youth DCE Amanda Bell – abell@clnorfolk.org

Some of the food gathered by the Junior High Youth on November 24 for the Norfolk Food Pantry and the Salvation Army Food Pantry.

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What Is Youth Group? This is a great question. So is the question, “Why do we have youth group?” Be sure to find answers to these questions and much more about youth ministry in the article on page 1.

Youth Fundraiser – Soup and Chili Cook-Off We will gather for “Beloved, Be Loving and Celebrate” as we enjoy fellowship, lunch, receive the written State of the Church Report, welcome new members, and participate in a youth fundraiser. All of this will take place in the Christ Lutheran Gym between noon and 1:30 p.m. on Sunday, January 19. The Youth Group will be assisting in serving the soup and chili lunch. Senior high youth should plan to worship at 5:30 on Saturday or at 8:00 on Sunday as we will set up for this event at 10:45 on Sunday, January 19. We will set up, then serve the meal at noon, assist with clean up, and be finished shortly after the meeting concludes at 1:30. Youth will receive a postcard regarding a dessert or relish item to bring.

Summer Servant Event Exciting news – plans are in place for our senior high summer servant event! We will be traveling to Watertown, Wisconsin and serving at Camp Matz as we partner with teen and adult campers with intellectual and developmental disabilities. We will participate in games, crafts, outdoor activities, Bible studies, and VBS style activities with our campers. We will leave Norfolk early morning on Saturday, June 21, and return late in the evening on Saturday, June 28. We plan to do some group sight seeing things in the Milwaukee/Sheboygan area in addition to visiting Concordia University Mequon, which is on the banks of Lake Michigan. Check out more information about the camp on our website at clnorfolk.org; click on Ministries, then Sr. High Youth. Registration for this event is open and limited. The camp only accepts a certain number of volunteers for each week throughout the summer. Registration forms are available online or outside the DCE offices at church. Final costs for this event are being determined and payments will be made from youth fundraising accounts and family contributions. As always we are making every effort to keep this experience as affordable as possible.

Email - Texting Get our regular senior high youth email updates? If you do, great. If you don’t, be sure to send an email to me at jstiek@clnorfolk.org to be added to our email list. Would you like text reminders for youth events? If so, please email me your phone number.

Upcoming Dates Fri., Jan. 3 - Youth Group Ski Trip to Great Bear in Sioux Falls, SD – Leave church at 7:00 a.m., return at 8:45 p.m.

Sun., Jan. 5 – 12:00 p.m. March for Life Meeting (lunch will be provided). Important information meeting for all March for Life youth participants and their parents.

Sun., Jan. 19 – 10:45 a.m. Youth Group Fundraiser Soup and Chili Cook-Off with Voters Assembly – Beloved, Be Loving and Celebrate.

Mon., Jan 20 - Meet at church to leave for March for Life. Return Thursday, January 23 after 9:00 p.m.

Sunday Youth Bible Study Join us on Sunday mornings in the youth rooms for fellowship, donuts, Bible Study, conversation, and prayer.

Throughout the year there will be opportunities for our youth to continue being involved with assisting in our children’s Sunday School.

Senior High Youth DCE Jared Stiek – jstiek@clnorfolk.org

Youth serving at the 2013 Soup and Chili Cook-off

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Beloved, Be Loving and Celebrate

Annual State of the Church Report (Voters’ Assembly) Mark your calendars for Sunday, January 19 at noon. We will gather for “Beloved, Be Loving and Celebrate” as we enjoy fellowship, lunch, receive the written State of the Church Report, and meet for a brief Voters’ Assembly. All of this will take place in the Christ Lutheran Gym between noon and 1:30 p.m. on Sunday, January 19.

Soup and Chili Cook-Off (youth fundraiser which includes lunch) Have a favorite soup or chili recipe? Enter it in the Chili and Soup Cook-Off. Participants are asked to make a crock pot (or roaster) of their favorite recipe. Pastors Winter and Rosenthal have already signed up to enter the cook-off. You can join them by signing up in the narthex. Attendees at “Beloved, Be Loving and Celebrate” will taste the various entries and vote for their favorite in a variety of categories. A free will offering will be gathered in exchange for a ballot. Funds raised will go to off-set the costs of the Youth servant events and activities for the upcoming year.

Congregational News

What’s the Point? continued from page 1 Perhaps our goal has not changed over the years of youth ministry in this congregation, but the culture in which our youth are maturing certainly has. For our youth ministry to meet the needs of our youth in a way that strives toward our goal of impacting their lives with Christ’s love, our approach to youth ministry has changed.

In the 1980s and 1990s, many high school age youth had “spare time” on their hands and were looking for ways to connect with other youth. The church-at-large saw this as an opportunity to offer events and activities that gave these youth a safe place to gather for fellowship on a regular basis, build friendships, and grow in God’s Word.

Thirty years later, we find young people involved in more extracurricular school activities and athletics, working part-time jobs, club activities and athletics, and more “scheduled” than ever before. Youth of today often make many of their “connections” with other youth in social groups within their school, within a team, and online, not in their neighborhood.

This shift in our culture has caused youth ministry to operate differently in order to more effectively reach our young people. As the church must “compete” for time in the lives of our youth, it becomes vitally important to know the goal of youth ministry and be sure everything we do strives to connect youth with Christ’s love.

While the era of youth attending a regularly scheduled youth group meeting each week, just because it is offered, might be over, there is good news. This generation of young people is the most connected generation yet. They continue a constant dialogue with each other through texting and social media. They have a desire to serve others and make the commitment to do so. They want responsibility and they want to have positive interactions with people of generations other than their own. They are a passionate group that is not afraid to take a stand and speak their mind, in person or online.

Using these strengths we see our youth group traveling for summer servant events. This gives youth the opportunity to serve, unplug from their overscheduled life at home, build lasting relationships with the other youth and adults on the trip, and be in God’s Word daily. We communicate about youth events and activities via text messaging and email updates. At our most recent youth retreat, youth created video clips to share information and promote upcoming youth events. Our senior high youth learn about teaching the faith each month as they lead skit stations for the children at Sunday School. In January seventeen youth will be traveling to Washington, D.C. for the March for Life where youth will boldly and publicly speak up for God’s great gift of life.

What’s the point? The point is much larger than fundraisers, reminders, meetings, and trips. Senior high youth ministry is an incredible opportunity for the young people of our congregation to grow in their faith, explore service to others, learn about life in the church, and become the future leaders of the congregation.

Fast Fact: Through the support of congregation and the community, in 2013 our senior high youth raised $9,200. These funds made important servant events, youth gatherings, and youth activities possible. Thank you!

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The Big Event A Story of Sharing God’s Love by Bill Begeman If anyone has material possessions and sees his brother in need but has no pity on him, how can the love of God be in him. Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth. 1 John 3:17-18 The Big Event, sponsored by Servants of the Savior (S.O.S.), under the theme “Reach Out with the Heart of Christ”, was held November 17 at Divots Conference Center. Silent and oral auctions and dinner kept guests engaged throughout the evening. The oral auction was kept lively by our special guest, Gary Thies of Mission Central, and vibrant auctioneer, Lisa Wolken. We were blessed to be able to offer unique and one-of-a-kind auction items because of the following large-hearted giving spirit of individuals and businesses:

Dinkel Implement, Dr. Dan Karmazin, Kathy’s Designs, Nucor, Fred and Judith Otten, Pastor John and June Rheel, Bruce and Karen Tiedeman, Mark and Sheri Raders, Apache Industries, Amanda Bell, Dr. Bradley Krivohlavek, Ken and Eunice Brandt, Canham Maytag, Christ Lutheran Quilters, Larry and Sherri Dinkel, Elkhorn Valley Bank, First National Bank, Franc’s Beauty Shop, Freudenburg & Associates LLC, Pastor Adrian and Grace Hanft, Heartland Pediatrics, Drs. Dan Blomenberg and Leon Gebhardt, Home for Funerals, Jerry’s Trailers and Campers, Norfolk Implement, Paula Pflueger Investments, Rock Signs of Texas, Pastor Leon and Terri Rosenthal, Gene and Theresa Shermer, S.O.S., Jared Stiek, Steve and Charlene Stortz, Subway, Taylor Creek Physical Therapy, U-Save Pharmacy, Wacker Home Improvement, Abbey Christian Store, Allied Tour and Travel, Barnstormers, Bomgaars, Brown Shoe Fit, Chad and Megan Bryant, Coldwell Banker Dover Realtors, Culvers, Deets Furniture, Diamond Vogel Paint Center, Floral Expressions, R.J. and Jess Gall, Gesell and Dede families, Go Figure Women’s Fitness, Hair Expression, Hair Studio, Edith Jensen, Jimmy John’s, Dee Jenkins, Starla Landkamer, Larry Silhacek Insurance, Michael’s Photography, Lisa Moreno, Natural Littles, Papa Murphy’s Pizza, Pizza Hut/Wing Street, Prenger’s Satellite Central, Hank and Rose Scott, Scheer’s Ace Hardware, State Farm Insurance, Stonacek Funeral Chapel, Tastee Treet, Town and Country Insurance, Susan Warneke, Whiskey Creek, Pastor Chip and Jami Winter, and Gertie Hofmann.

Congregational News

We are humbled by the generous heart of Christ our guests demonstrated through ticket donations and auction items purchased. (How many more bags of pecans could we have sold?)

Each person, contributing in their own way, helps to reach out with the heart of Christ. It is with great joy we can send over $31,000 to Mission Central to support workers Neuendorf, Meyer, Vandercook, Petersen, Kincaid and Ferry serving in countries some of which we cannot even pronounce. We cannot go where God has led these servants to reach out with the love and mercy of God, but they will be our ambassadors and are needful of our continued prayers. May many eyes, ears and hearts be opened to God’s redeeming word.

We can only imagine the impact on individual lives Orphan Grain Train, another recipient, touches in the states and around the world. May all the special projects supported by the proceeds continue to reach out with the heart of Christ.

S.O.S. is an auxiliary of LCMS Lutheran Hour Ministries. They meet monthly to carry out mission projects. Any one, young or old, married or single, is welcome to attend the meetings held on the third Tuesday of the month. Should you have questions, contact Bill Begeman at 402-371-4433.

Pre-Marital Retreat Offered In order to help engaged couples prepare not only for their weddings but their marriage as well, Christ Lutheran began to hold Pre-Marital Guidance retreats some eight years ago. The congregation will again host such an event on Saturday, January 18, 2014. Beginning at 9:00 that morning the couples will be led through the Scriptural understanding of God’s gift of marriage, be given an understanding of what the wedding coordinator’s help will mean in preparation for and on the special day, as well as have opportunities to work on communication skills and a deeper understanding of what each member brings to the marriage.

Instrumentalists Being Gathered Names of instrumentalists who could play for worship will be gathered during the month of January. Parts for various instruments will be compiled in such a way that they can be used regularly but with minimal rehearsal time. These instrumental parts might accompany liturgy, hymns, songs, or even be used as anthems. Look for the bulletin board this month in the narthex.

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“Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” Romans 12:2

Pastor’s Pondering Rev. Chip Winter, Director of Ministry - cwinter@clnorfolk.org

Prepared – or Not? Many have commented that while the calendar suggested such weather was in order, they weren’t prepared for the arctic front that moved in on December 4. Perhaps the fifty-plus degree temperatures of the days before were responsible for some of the surprise, but either way it got me to thinking about being prepared.

On the day in question I was prepared for the weather with the wonderful black wool coat my wife gave me years ago. I was thankful for it and the corresponding hat that let me cross the hospital parking lot in reasonable comfort.

But as I asked for the rooms of Lutherans registered as patients I realized I did not have my Pastoral Care Companion book with me. Rats. I certainly know enough scripture and words for prayer to do without it, but with that book I’ve got a greater storehouse of suggested lessons, prayers and hymns to provide comfort and to express thanksgiving for healing received. In other words, I feel better prepared with it.

On the way back to my study I thought about a couple of errands I might run while I was out – each of them on the route back to the church. Nope, I hadn’t brought along the items needing the attention of the clerks behind the respective counters. Rats, again; I wasn’t prepared.

One more anecdote, if you’ll permit. As I was approaching the school this morning, about forty-five minutes before the classes would begin, a student outside asked if I was teaching one of the classes that morning. I replied that no, I was not. I was simply going to attend the teachers’ devotion time. That explanation caused the young lady’s eyes to open. She said, “Teachers have devotions? Cool.”

What we were doing this morning is part of being prepared; prepared for the day, prepared for life, prepared to give an answer to anyone who asks the reason for the hope that is in you. Take a moment to think of the hope you have, borne of the forgiveness that Christ Jesus won for you on the cross. It’s a hope that moves through the day with you, encountering whatever awaits, because the Spirit of the resurrected and living God resides with you in His Word and Sacraments.

We’re also planning a Bible Class in Epiphany based on sharing God’s love with a variety of the types of people around us - from ‘nones’ to seekers, from family members to strangers. That might be a help to you in expressing this wonderful hope that we share.

Now, if you’ll excuse me, it’s time to bundle up and head over to the hospital.

Human Care in Action at College You have read in previous issues of Echo 2.0 that Christ Lutheran has been in contact with community leaders for ways to “Be Loving” in our community. It was brought to our attention that numerous students remain on the campus of Northeast Community College during the holiday break but have no food service available. Christ Lutheran members will provide and host three meals for these students in late December and early January. As of this writing, the meals have yet to be served. It is interesting to note that a visit to the dormitory at NECC on December 11 showed several students had already signed up for the meals with very few details provided! This is a need and we can help. Watch for another opportunity for campus meals as the winter and spring progress.

Choirs Resume in January After a little break at the end of December, the Christ Lutheran choirs will resume regular rehearsals on Thursday evenings in January.

Handbell Choir - Thursday, January 16, 5:30 p.m. in balcony

Adult Choir – Thursday, January 16, 7:00 p.m. in the chapel

Handbell ringers are in place for that particular group and do require note reading skills. But January is a fine time for additional singers to join the Adult Choir. The music is new to everyone as preparations for Epiphany, Lent and Easter get underway. The choir is growing this year, with more chairs needed in the balcony when everyone is present. What a blessing to have volunteers in the vocal and handbell choirs to lead us in worship. Director of Music Susan Warneke can visit with you about your participation. Singers in high school and older make fine Adult Choir members!

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January 2014 Membership Roll Call

Roster Changes Transfer Out Melissa Davis, 709 Forest Drive, Norfolk; to Our Savior, Norfolk.

Alicia Meaike, 715 South 5th Street, Norfolk; to Our Savior, Norfolk.

Corey and Katie Frederick, Taya and Tytan, 4402 Pierce Drive, Norfolk; to Our Savior, Norfolk.

Robert and Gwyn Rowland, Alexandra and Candace, N4224 Oak Grove Drive, Columbus, Wisconsin; to Bethlehem Lutheran, Sun Prairie, Wisconsin.

Sharissa Fernau, 17129 Erskine Street, Omaha, Nebraska; to Bethany Lutheran, Elkhorn, Nebraska.

Baptized Into God’s Family Brooklyn Elise Johnson, daughter of Daniel and Amy Johnson, was born October 18, 2013, and baptized November 24, 2013. Her sponsors are Ryan Potts, and Brian and Leslie Johnson.

Emmersyn Anne Louree Penn, daughter of David Penn and Crystal Newcomb, was born September 27, 2013, and baptized November 30, 2013. Her sponsors are Adam and Amy Bethards, Danny White, and Kevin and Carol Martin.

Autumn Rose White, daughter of Daniel and Shawna White, was born October 11, 2013, and baptized November 30, 2013. Her sponsors are Adam Bethards and Carlie Assarson.

Rachel Ann Schindler, born February 23, 2002; Jacob Lee Adolph Schindler, born October 24, 2007; and Elizabeth Grace Schindler, born October 22, 2013, children of Lincoln and Heather Schindler, were baptized December 1, 2013. Sponsors for the children are Dave and Linda Schindler.

Trinity Breann Story, daughter of Jim and Megan Story, was born August 3, 2013, and baptized December 1, 2013. Her sponsor is Seth Lauver, with Amanda Zevallos Lucero as a witness.

Riggs Dietrich Batcher, son of John and Denise Batcher, was born November 5, 2013, and baptized December 1, 2013. His sponsors are Eric and Kim Otten.

Baylor Sue Schroeter, daughter of Ross and Amy Schroeter, was born October 3, 2013, and baptized December 14, 2013. Her sponsors are Scott and Angie Eidem and Kelsey Custer.

Called to Their Heavenly Home Earl E. Meisinger, August 2, 1925 – November 18, 2013. Clarence A. Brueggeman, August 4, 1919 – December 4, 2013.

Celebrating Birthday Blessings Those celebrating birthday blessings of 80 years or more in the month of January include: 3: Norma Stueve 4: Donral Schulz 10: Lois Hinzman 26: Marlin Reuter

Moved from One House to Another Loretta Slobodny, 1701 Riverside Blvd., #8, Norfolk, NE 68701

Geraldine Bruhn, 210 Harris Drive, Unit 7, Norfolk, NE 68701

Arlene Meisinger, The Madison House, 1120 N. 1st Street, #32, Norfolk, NE 68701

Merlyn and JoAnn Doescher, 110 East Benjamin Avenue, #3, Norfolk, NE 68701

If you have recently relocated, please notify the Church Office of your change of address.

Ladies Circle Christ Lutheran Ladies Circle met on November 21, 2013, with Judy Allvin, president, presiding. Twelve members were present. Pastor Rosenthal led the group in a devotion. Gloria Vogel and Sheri Anderson presented the Christian Life topic entitled “A Tisket, A Tasket, God has Filled My Blessing Basket.”

Hostesses for the day were Gloria Vogel and Barbara Wagner. Annual Christmas donations were discussed and voted on. It was noted that the group would be serving a teachers sorority brunch on December 7.

On December 12, 39 members and guests attended the Ladies Circle annual covered dish luncheon and guest day. This was hosted by the 2013 officers: Judy Allvin, Edith Jensen, Barbara Wagner and Alice Koehler.

Christ Lutheran Kindergarten students entertained the group by singing several Christmas songs. Ruth Oswald, Ann Grant and Jane Daberkow presented a skit showing how to be of service as well as how not to.

2014 officers were installed by Pastor Winter at the conclusion of the meeting. New officers are: Barbara Wagner, president, Sheri Mickelson, vice-president, Joy Henkel, secretary, and Judy Allvin, treasurer.

The next meeting will be Thursday, January 16, 2014.

Starla Landkamer – slandkamer@clnorfolk.org

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Christ Lutheran

January 2014 Christ Lutheran Advent and Christmas Family Photo Album

Amanda Bell, Chad Bryant and Rev. Chip Winter help fill Bags of Hope. The Bags of Hope project is sponsored by Behavior Health Specialists and is used by the church staff in lieu of a Christmas gift exchange. This year 4 children ages 1-13 were adopted by the staff.

Several trees throughout the church displayed ornaments that had a special symbolism.

Above: Some of the preschoolers joyously bring their Angel Tree gifts to add to the collection.

Angel Tree gifts were collected from many generous congregation members and distributed on December 14, to children who have a parent in prison. Angel Tree is a program of Prison Fellowship that our church has participated in for several years.

Ladies Circle officers hosted their Christmas luncheon on December 12. L-R: Alice Koehler, Barb Wagner, Edith Jensen, Judy Allvin.

Top photo: Ladies Circle was entertained by the Kindergarten classes of Christ Lutheran School taught by Brenda Sunderman and LaRhae Voelker.

Christ Lutheran January 2014

Printing Costs for This Month’s Echo 2.0 Paid for by Donations from These Sponsors

Abbey Christian Store

Bev Mauch, Coldwell Banker Dover Realtors

Norfolk Implement

Dr. Dan Blomenberg

Eye Physicians PC

Elkhorn Valley Bank & Trust

Dinkel Implement

Dr. Leon Gebhardt

Freudenburg & Associates LLC

Stahla Homes & RV

Taylor Creek Physical Therapy

Jerry’s Trailers & Campers

U-Save Pharmacy

Dr. Brad Krivohlavek

Christ Lutheran www.clnorfolk.org

Church 605 South Fifth Street

Norfolk, NE 68701 402-371-1210 phone

402-371-1228 fax

School 511 South Fifth Street 402-371-5536 phone

402-371-1288 fax

Helping Hands Childcare 400 West Pasewalk Ave.

(Corner of Fourth Street & Pasewalk Ave.) 402-379-3275 phone

Next ECHO 2.0 deadline is January 15, 2014

Send items to slandkamer@clnorfolk.org