winter 2012 - 2013

In This Issue

Note from Pastor Jake 2

Missions 3

On Fire! 4-5

St Luke’s School 6

Women’s Events 6

L-Teams 7

Finances 8-9

God Stories 10-11

Membership Updates 11

Staff 12

BIG CHANGEMy dad, years ago, when I was in elementary school in Michigan had an opportunity to change jobs and work in a different state. As a child, I struggled with this. One night as he was talking about the possibility, I told him; if we go to Chicago we are probably going to live off bread with no house and no clothes. I was mad and scared for what would happen if my family moved. Change! It’s hard for us to embrace the changes that often come in life. Sometimes it is where we live, sometimes it is job related, sometimes it is our friendships, sometimes it’s passions that we have, sometimes it’s kids. But for most of us change is always a little challenging.

Abraham, Moses, Noah, Peter, Paul. These guys all had moments where God moved them in unexpected ways.

As we get ready for Christmas we must remember how Joseph had to grab hold of new things. In Matthew chapter 1, as the birth of Jesus is about to take place, Joseph is getting ready to let go of his pregnant wife Mary until God shows up

and tells him His plan. Suddenly Joseph has great change in his life. He grabs hold of Mary and adopts Jesus as a son. What a change!

As each of us deal with changes may we, like Joseph follow God’s call and not be afraid. As a church we are about to undergo a change. For a number of years we have used the NIV as our Bible translation. In 1984 the NIV Bible was updated in a good way and used by many churches to hear what God says. In 2011 they published an updated version of the NIV. This update was filled with translational issues that made it less accurate in English than what the Bible says in Greek and Hebrew. Furthermore the 1984 version of the Bible stopped getting produced. So what should we do as a church trying to teach what God has said?

May I introduce you to the ESV (English Standard Version)? This translation of the Bible is very accurate and has been embraced by many churches. The LCMS (our church body) newest Worship Book changed over to the ESV translation. Many churches that I’ve talked to have already made this change, and it’s time for St. Luke’s as well. My own checking of this book has made me appreciate the work done to translate the Bible into our language. And to do so accurately.

It’ll take us some time to collect books and make the shift. Initially we need over 400 Bibles in order to fill the pews and provide Bibles for those who do not have one. If you want to help us make this change, Bibles will cost $7.14 each. If you want to help, make a donation and label it ESV BIBLES.

If you have any questions dealing with the translational issues let me know. I’m happy to talk. May God fill you up for the changes of life!

Pastor Chris

Socks, hats and gloves will be collected at the Thanksgiving service, on Wednesday, November 21, 7 pm. The collected items will support Reach Out, one of our 10 For The World groups. Reach Out supports both the men’s and women’s Federal Way shelters.

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A NOTE FROM PASTOR JAKECan you believe we are almost at the start of the Christmas season? Where does the time go!? I, for one, am ready for some Christmas music. Bring on Mannheim Steamroller! Christmas is one of my favorite times of the year and the time of preparation that proceeds it is an important one. Just as each of us has traditions during the Christmas season, so does our family of faith! We set aside a special time of Advent worship for the three weeks before Christmas. Setting aside this time from the hectic to and fro of the week helps us to slow down and refocus. We could all use some of that—myself included.

According to much mass hysteria about the now famous Mayan calendar, the world is supposed to end on December 21, 2012. Will we be able to celebrate Christmas this year? That answer will be filed under “If God wills it,” but I can say that the December 21, 2012 prediction will NOT come true. Jesus promised, “No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.” (Matthew 24:36) No worries.

But worries still exist. We still have many worries and fears. For Christians, some of those worries and fears come from the events in Scripture that have yet to happen. It seems like everyone has their own idea of what will happen at the end. But what does God say? Do we have reason to worry? Or does the book of Revelation seem to point us in a different direction?

Our Advent worship series, “the end,” will take a look at the book of Revelation and the things to come. “The end” will begin on December 5 at 7:00 pm and will continue through the following two weeks (December 12 and 19 at 7:00 pm). Bring your worries and fears as we prepare for what is to come—even the birth of our Savior, Jesus.

Light it Up! (Ignite Wednesday youth group) will attend these worship opportunities as part of youth group.

Speaking of our youth, God has truly been at work in their hearts. I’m continually floored by the ways in which God moves in mighty ways. It’s exciting to see how God is working! A recent example of this powerful Kingdom work was at the last Confirmation retreat. I will let Kaylan Fossett tell you her story in her own words.

When I was a baby, I didn’t get baptized. My parents wanted me to make the choice for myself. I finally started to talk to my mom about it when I was 12. I knew I wanted to get baptized, but we just didn’t know when it would happen. We assumed that I would get baptized on confirmation Sunday, but that was not God’s plan.

Going into confirmation, I knew I was the only one who hadn’t been baptized. I was excited for our fall retreat. I was looking forward to learning more about baptism. After the first lesson on Saturday morning, Pastor Jake pulled me aside and asked about how everything was going and how I was feeling. We talked for a little bit, and out of nowhere he looked at me and said, “What if we baptized you today?” I was in total shock! My mind was going a million miles an hour. That was the last thing I expected him to say.

He called my mom after lunch to ask what she thought about it. She said that it was up to me, and that it was between me and God. After talking with Jake, I decided that I wanted to do it. Pastor Jake was ecstatic! He was jumping and dancing around like he just won the lottery! I was doing the same thing on the inside.

That night, we had a huge bon fire and we all worshipped together. After worship, Pastor Jake called me up and said “friends we have some very exciting news. Kaylan is getting baptized tonight!” Everyone started to cheer. They all came up, laid hands on me, and prayed over me. With all the sweet things being said, we ALL started to cry. I remember having to take an extra step as I felt like I was going to fall over. I told my mom and Pastor Jake about this and they said that it was the Holy Spirit moving through us all. It was such an amazing feeling. Pastor Jake then baptized me and I won the best lottery of all.

Today, I feel like a weight has been lifted off of my shoulders. I also feel that this experience has brought our whole confirmation class closer together. I will never forget my baptism and neither will my class.

After that life-changing experience, I remember standing off to the side for a moment and just watching our class. All I could do was thank and praise God for all that had just taken place. My dear brothers and sisters, may you know that God is working in mighty ways in our youth and He is using them (and each of us!) to bring people to a personal relationship with Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord. God’s richest blessings to you as we start listening to Christmas music in our preparation of the birth of our Savior.

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MISSIONSThe Mirror Lake Christmas EventSaturday, December 15, 2-4 pmMirror Lake Elementary School GymMany helping hands are needed to make this event a success. We are looking for volunteers on the day of the event as well as to help with set-up on Friday, December 14, starting at 6 pm, as we transform the gym into Santa’s workshop. Also needed are desserts and small paper plates and napkins. If you are interested in helping out or donating a baked item, please contact Valerie at vdanforth@comcast.net.

Giving TreeTis the season! The Giving Tree will be up and ready the weekend of November 17/18. The Giving Tree benefits families (almost 100 kids!) in need through our partnership

with Mirror Lake Elementary. The trees also have tags for some patients who reside at Life Care Center in Federal Way. There are two trees with names from both places on them. One is located on the lower level near the Preschool and Kindergarten classrooms. The other is located on the main floor, across from the Bookstore. Gifts purchased for names from the Giving Tree are due by Sunday, December 12. More details are available at the Giving Tree locations. For questions, contact Kendra Breyer, 253.941.3000.

Oktoberfest Swaziland Fundraiser Wrap up! The Inaugural Oktoberfest fundraiser was a huge success raising almost $10,000 benefitting the 2013 mission team and H2theO (water wells in Swaziland). Thank you to all those who came and gave so generously! Special thanks to all those who helped plan, cook, serve, set up and take down. Your time and efforts were appreciated so much! Please continue to keep the March 2013 team members in your prayers as they continue to raise funds and prepare for their trip. (Team Members: Nate Breyer, Jake Allstaedt, Donna Breyer, Tom and Alyshia Foster, Selena Koosman)

Reach Out Shelter Volunteer OpportunitiesThere are two shelters that operate during the winter to help provide shelter, food and support services to homeless men and women in Federal Way. This winter, St. Luke’s has offered to help provide meals for two weeks. The first week is December 3-9. We need volunteers who are willing to help make dinners that week for the men’s shelter. The second week is January 14-20, providing meals to the women’s shelter. If you, your family, your friends, or your Bible study group is willing to help with the meals, please contact Mary Ann Hopewell at: MABHCH@aol.com.

Narnia, a musical version of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, returns to St. Luke’s this December!

Yes, C.S. Lewis’ classic Christian allegory once again will grace the stage here at St. Luke’s. As an extra-special treat it will be presented the week before Christmas, making it the perfect addition to everyone’s holiday season entertainment schedule. Filled with fantastic creatures, colorful characters and witty songs, don’t miss this fun, fast-paced and ultimately moving story of redemption and sacrifice.

Show times will be: December 20 8 pm

December 21 8 pm

December 22 2 pm, 8 pm

December 23 2 pm, 8 pm

Watch for tickets to go on sale in early December.

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ON FIRE!FLAME - (grades 1 - 6)

Sunday School Christmas Program Rehearsal for Grades 1-6All Sunday School and Children’s Choir students are needed to rehearse on Saturday, December 15 from 1-2:30 pm in the Worship Center. This is the ONLY dress rehearsal we have before presenting our program on Sunday. All children and teachers are needed.

Grades 1-6 Sunday School Christmas Program Our first through sixth grade Sunday School classes will be presenting their annual Christmas Program on Sunday, December 16 at 11 am in the Worship Center. Come and be a part of telling the true Christmas Story. Join in singing Christmas carols as together we remember and celebrate the birth of our Savior.

Flame Sunday SchoolThe week of February 3, our Sunday School classes in grades 1-6 will begin a four week Bible Adventure to Babylon. We will go with Daniel to the lion’s den and to the fire in the furnace. We will view dramas, make crafts, study the Bible, eat snacks, take part in a World Vision project and experience what it was like to live as Daniel lived in Bible times. There will be an attendance contest.

Kids for ChristAfter a break in December, KFC resumes on Wednesday, January 16, at 6:30 pm in Malkow Hall. This is our night of “Soft Stuff” – silly string, boppers, pillow fights, foam balls, marshmallow guns and oodles of noodles for dinner. Come join in the fun and bring your friends!

On Friday, February 8, KFC-456 will hold our annual Overnighter in Malkow Hall! The fun begins with dinner at 6:30 pm and will conclude the next morning, February 9, at 10 am after breakfast. There will be games, crafts, worship, pajama contest and more. Invite friends!

Communion ClassOur Communion Class for 5th and 6th graders, and any high school or middle school students who have not completed the Communion Class, will begin Wednesday, January 9, at 6:30 pm in Great Room A & B. At least one parent must accompany each student. The class runs for five weeks. Upon completion of the class, memory work, and testing, students will be given their first communion on Ash Wednesday, February 13, at our 7 pm worship.

SPARK - (age 0 - kindergarten)

3, 4, and 5-year-old Sunday School Christmas ProgramOur Spark 3, 4 and 5-year-old Sunday School classes will be presenting their Christmas Program on Sunday, December 9, at 9:45 am in the Great Room, followed by a reception. They have been practicing since October. Don’t miss their great singing as we celebrate the birth of Jesus together.

Meet the BabiesSaturday, March 910-11:00 amSt. Luke’s NurseryWho are the parents of babies at St. Luke’s? This is a time to meet other parents and talk about the life change of having a baby in the house, sharing experiences, joys, frustrations, and help for others. Contact Carrie Andrew for more info: carrieandrew148@gmail.com.

Starting RightJanuary 20 and 279:30-10:30 amSt Luke’s, room 101Envision your children as adults. What do you dream for them? What kind of characteristics would you like to be developed in them? Now is the time to lay the groundwork for all you will teach your children as they grow. Childcare available.

Birthday Party for One-Year-OldsIf you had a child who turned “1” in 2012, we would like to help you celebrate their 1st year of life! Please join us on Saturday, January 26, 2013, from 10 to 11 am in the Great Room for a Birthday Party just for you and your “1” year old. It will give you a great opportunity to meet other parents with children the same age, share experiences and trade advice! Bring a blanket for your child to play on if needed. (Childcare will be available for older siblings upon request. Please call the church office in advance with their names & ages.) Questions? Contact Jan Grothe: 253-941-3000 or jgrothe@stlukes-church.com.

Super SundayOur second Super Sunday of the year will be on January 27 at 9:30 am in Malkow Hall for all Sunday School classes grades 1-6. We will be giving out Birthday Bags and Memory Awards. There will be drama, music, Bible teaching, treats and other surprises!

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ON FIRE!

IGNITE - (grades 7 - 12)

Communion ClassOur Communion Class for 5th and 6th graders, and any high school or middle school students who have not completed the Communion Class, will begin Wednesday, January 9, at 6:30 pm in Great Room A & B. At least one parent must accompany each student. The class runs for five weeks. Upon completion of the class, memory work, and testing, students will be given their first communion on Ash Wednesday, February 13, at our 7 pm worship.

Upcoming Holiday Events for FamiliesDec 2 Make-n-Take Christmas Craft Festival from 2-5 pm in Malkow Hall

Dec 8 Angel Breakfast at 9 am in Malkow Hall; $6 per person or max $20 per family

Dec 9 3, 4 and 5-year-olds present Sunday School Christmas Program at 9:45 am

Dec 15 Rehearsal for grades 1-6 Christmas Program, 1-2:30 pm in Worship Center

Dec 16 Grades 1-6 Sunday School Christmas Program presented in Worship Center 11 am

Angel BreakfastCome and celebrate the birthday of Jesus with us at our Angel Breakfast on Saturday, December 8, at 9 am in Malkow Hall. We will serve a pancake and sausage breakfast. There will also be puppets, music, an Angel Choir, treat bags and ornaments, story telling, door prizes, picture taking (bring you own camera), crowns and haloes, and a giant birthday cake for Jesus! Invite friends, grandparents, cousins, and neighbors.

The cost is $6 per person or $20 maximum per family. Tickets may be purchased in the office, at the Welcome Center, or at the door.

Make-n-Take Christmas Craft FestivalTo begin the Christmas season be sure to attend our annual Christmas Craft Festival in Malkow Hall on Sunday, December 2, from 2-5 pm. Bring friends and neighbors with you. There will be over 15 craft projects to make and take home as well as door prizes, refreshments, devotional materials, music and great fellowship.

There is no charge for this event.

There will be NO Sunday School on December 23 and 30.

Sunday School classes will resume their regular schedule on

January 6, 2013.

CharisCharis (Greek for “grace”) has begun again for the 2012-2013 school year! We are so happy to announce that eleven of our 10th-12th grade girls have made a commitment to grow in faith and sisterhood with this all-female community. We ask that you encourage and support these young women and the leaders as they continue their journey in becoming faithful disciples of Jesus Christ, our Savior.

Members:Brooke Chapman Tessa PariseauJillian Gamache Madison PutnamPaige Hallstrom Madison RuppelElise Kleine Hannah SoltisSonia Klouse Stephanie StahlneckerKayla Larson Leaders:Christina Allstaedt Aurea GrotheRobyn Cawker Jan GrotheRebecca Grant Becca Stork

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WOMEN’S EVENTS

PRESCHOOL, KINDERGARTEN & CHILDCAREKindergarten, Preschool, and Childcare Christmas ProgramsOur St. Luke’s Childcare Center will present their Christmas Program on Friday, December 14, at 7 pm in the Great Room followed by a reception. Our four-year-old preschool classes and kindergarten class will present their Christmas Program on Sunday, December 16, at 2 pm in the Worship Center followed by a reception in the lobby area.

Preschool and Kindergarten Registration 2013-2014Registration Packets for the 2013-2014 school year will be available for St. Luke’s members by January 27. St. Luke’s members are given first opportunity to register for classes. All other students will enroll beginning Friday, February 15, at 9 am. Packets may be picked up ahead of time after January 27, in our office or at our Welcome Center. Take extra packets for friends and neighbors with young children. We offer classes for 3, 4 and 5 year olds.

What? Me Worry?January 5

Alfred E. Neuman of MAD Magazine fame aside, most of us have experienced worry off and on during our lives. Health issues, finances, time constraints and personal relationships head the top of the list for subjects most people worry about at different times during their lives. Sometimes anxiety becomes overwhelming; stress builds until worry becomes a health-threat and begins to affect our quality of life.

We will take a look at what the Bible says about worry and stress and learn some tools to manage anxiety. Stress does not have to define our lives. We can learn how to tackle the worry problem the same way a person eats an elephant—a little bit at a time. Presented by Sue Thode, licensed mental health counselor.

Not Now, I Have a Headache!February 2

Explore the reasons for decreased sex drive in today’s modern woman. Led by Bob Snyder, M.D. Dr. Bob is with the Franciscan Health System and specializes in women’s health, obstetrics & gynecology.

Create a CardMarch 2

Are you crafty? Do you wish you were? This is your chance to dust off the cobwebs in the right brain and let the artist in you shine. We will assist our Card Making L-Team in assembling cards. These cards will be sent for special events, birthdays, anniversaries, new babies, etc. All materials will be provided, just bring your helping hands!

Spiritual WarfareApril 6

As Christians we are all soldiers engaged in spiritual warfare transacted on an invisible battlefield. Satan has a powerful kingdom and governs his hierarcy of demons, principalities, and powers to carry out his schemes of disruption and destruction. Yet many of us remain untrained in the skills of spiritual warfare. This seminar will provide some basic tools to help you effectively engage in spiritual hand-to-hand combat on both a personal and cosmic level. Led by Ann Murphy.

High TeaMay 18 – 11:00 am – 1 pm

Ladies, moms, daughters, girlfriends…once again, it’s time to limber up your pinky finger, practice your British accent, and prepare to be treated to a very special lunch event. High Tea returns to The Great Room following its spectacular 2011 debut. You can indulge in a delectable feast of beautifully prepared and displayed treats, visit with your friends, and smile the morning away without even finding your passport.

Most of our events are on the first Saturday of the month from 9-11 am. The exception is the Ladies’ Tea in May. Check out the special time and date.

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L-TEAMSWhat is an L-Team?

People engaging in a Live.Love.Learn. activity where relationships are built and Christ is shared.

L-Teams are not small groupsThey may or may not meet weeklyThey may or may not open a Bible or pray or talk about Jesus

L-Teams can include anyone, meet anywhere and do almost anythingThey are not just for St. Luke’s people - invite co-workers, neighbors and friendsThey can meet at your house, at church or at the bowling alley

L-Team samples: Sip ‘n Score, Study of Ephesians, Christian Motorcyclists, BRIDGE Parenting, and Holiday Decoration.We have Mirror Lake School community service teams, boy scouts, small group teams, hospital visitors, potlucks, and bowling.

For more information, contact Jan Grothe: 253.941.3000 or jgrothe@stlukes-church.com

New L-Team?It’s easy to start an L-Team! Check out our website for the variety of L-Teams we have. Email Jan Grothe at jgrothe@stlukes-church.com or go to the St. Luke’s website stlukes-church.com, log in, go to “Groups,” click “Create” at the far right, and fill out the form. We’ll process your form and schedule Captain (Leader) Training if you haven’t already done so. Not sure? Give me a call and we can talk through your ideas and the process (253.941.3000).

New L-Teams for JanuaryWhat has God put on your heart to do? What are you already doing? Now is the time to start processing the L-Teams you are thinking about starting in the winter quarter. January will be here quicker than we realize. (December 5 is the due date for winter L-Teams.) If you need help, direction, calendaring, or whatever, let me know. Email Jan, jgrothe@stlukes-church.com or call 253.941.3000 to set up a time to talk about where God is leading you and for a short training session.

Membership ClassDiscover Life with God – This workshop and Next Steps events are designed to learn about the vision and purpose of St. Luke’s, as well as our ministries and L-Teams. We cover topics in the Christian faith, including Baptism and the Lord’s Supper.

The next dates are: January 18/19, and April 19/20.

Community Prayer & Healing Gatheringssecond Sunday of the Month, 5-6 pm, Chapel

Now the body is not made up of one part but of many…If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it. - 1 Cor 12:14, 26.

Life is far from easy — health concerns, sickness, financial difficulties, unemployment, relationship issues, grief, temptation, and fear. As we face life’s difficulties together, our loving response begins with prayer. As members of Christ’s body we are spiritually connected. If just one member has trouble or is suffering, it spiritually impacts all of us.

We gather together in prayer because there is power in praying together – Jesus tells us “where two or three come together in my name, there am I with them.” (Matt 18:20)Jesus promises that his loving presence will be with us in a special way when we join together in prayer. We pray with that expectation. United in prayer we turn to God in trust that he can do things that are above and beyond our own capabilities.

Whatever the burden that you or a loved one may be experiencing – Jesus wants to exchange it with His peace and joy. Put your hope in the Lord. Join us on the second Sunday of the month ---the prayer ministry.

CORECORE is training for those seeking to gain a deeper understanding of God and His Word. It is designed for people who are hungry to have God work through them to affect the lives of others. The next session on Psalms: Living a Psalm Shaped Life starts on January 29, with application due January 20.

Contact Deacon Todd Zern (tzern@stlukes-church.com) or Deacon Ann Murphy (aim20011@comcast.net) for more information.

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NEW! 2013 GIVING OPTIONSGiving via Smart PhoneSt Luke’s now offers a mobile version of our online giving page to make it easy for you to give from your smart phone. Using your phone, simply scan the image you see here using your QR code reader or go to www.stlukes-church.com and click on “Donate Online.”

God’s Transformation Through Our Financesby Ken and Kendra Breyer

Money is such a complex topic. Scripture even talks about money A LOT… the story of the widow’s offering (Mark 12:41-44), “You cannot serve both God and money.” (Matthew 6:19-24) and the parable of the rich fool (Luke 12:13-21) are just a few examples. So much value is attached to money. It determines if you have a roof over your head, food in your fridge, what car you drive, your health, or whether or not you can go see a movie. Life can be easy and without fear when you have a steady stream of it. So when our steady stream of work and income came to a halt, fear and insecurity crept in.

We had been in similar situations before, however, this time we looked forward with a deep uncertainty of what our future held. The past had taught us that no matter what, God would provide. We knew how to watch our money and how to cut expenses. After that, we just had to trust.

We have always given to St. Luke’s financially, but when we sat down to try and make clear how the next six months or more would work, we were scared. When you don’t know when, or if, money will be coming in, it’s hard to imagine giving money away every month. Learning what we had from the past, we decided to take a leap of faith and trust, knowing that all that we have is HIS, anyway. We decided to give a set amount every month, whether we had enough money coming in or not. Not gonna lie… we were nervous. Logically it didn’t, wouldn’t, and shouldn’t have added up. We spent months living by this decision (while praying like crazy for work). To be honest, we found an insane amount of joy in our giving during those tough, scary months, because we should have been in the red almost every month! We always feel so dumb for our lack of faith when it comes to finances. We look at each other, shake our heads and say, “Really?! Why do we stress?!” We may not be what the world would consider “Big Donors,” but because of our relationship with Christ, we give (and continue to give), even when things get tough. We want Him to be a part of every aspect of our lives, including our finances.

God has given us so much and it’s one way we can continually show Him that we trust, that money is a resource and a blessing, but it doesn’t consume us. We also give because of this place, St. Luke’s. We have both grown up in this church, served in various ministries and have had the privilege of seeing lives and families changed. We’re amazed by all that God continues to do through St. Luke’s! We challenge you to let God lead in all parts of your life, even your finances. Consider giving, even if it seems impossible. You will be surprised by what God can do with what we deem “impossible.”

Offering EnvelopesWe are the in process of eliminating numbered envelopes, and moving towards generic envelopes. This new system will go into affect on January 1, 2013. Be on the look out for information in December.

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FINANCIAL UPDATE

2012 MISSION PLAN YEAR-END RESULTS (July 2011-June 2012)

Giving: July-September 2012 (1st Quarter End)Below is a brief review of gifts and offerings the first quarter of the 2013 Mission Plan (July-September 2012). At the voter’s meeting this past June, the congregation approved a mission plan (budget) that challenged the community to prayerfully consider increasing the current giving level by 10%. We are pleased by the faithful response of the congregation, currently we are only 1% below this increased level. Praise be to God that He continues to meet the needs of this community!

Revenue and ExpensesTotal FY12 year-end net income of $2,172,457 falls above net operating expenses of $2,095,628 by $78,828 (136% over budget – budget of –$56,683). General Fund offerings of $1,132,906 are under budget by $38,694 (–3%). After mortgage principle payments and capital improvements, the budget loss (–$56,902) positively exceeds the FY12 year-end budget by $51,537. The budget loss is absorbed by cash reserves.

4 Those 2 Come (Building Fund)This is a reminder that we have officially renamed the “building fund” to 4 Those 2 Come. All donations allocated towards 4 Those 2 Come will assist the Executive Leadership Team (ELT) in funding regular mortgage principle payments, capital improvement projects, and large furniture and equipment purchases. Prayerfully consider supporting helping us care for the facility and property that God has given us. If you have any questions, please contact Todd Zern in the church office.

Annual Vision MeetingWe will be gathering for Annual Vision Meeting on Sunday, January 27, at 12:30pm in the Great Room. Together in this time, we will be discussing how God is developing the vision of His ministry at St. Luke’s. This meeting is open to the entire community of St. Luke’s.

General Fund CashGeneral Fund Cash (aka – “Cash Surplus”) at the end of this reporting period is $398,750.

Capital Improvement FundThe Restricted Capital Improvement Fund (aka – the “Building Fund”) is $42,563. As of the writing of this newsletter (late October), $30,000-$35,000 is currently being set aside for a new roof over the third floor classrooms, which we anticipate this work to be done by October 2012.

GIVING UPDATE1st Quarter Offerings (July-September 2012) $ 312,277

1st Quarter Budget $ 314,950

% to Budget 99 %

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GOD STORIESIt All Started with a Baby Bottleby Nancy Johnson

Someone at our church in Arizona was passing out baby bottles, and we were filling them up to donate to the Crisis Pregnancy Center (known as CPC). Sometimes God opens doors for us in very unusual ways. The representative from CPC said they were a Christian organization that helped pregnant women see they had choices besides abortion. I felt God had opened this door, and I had to walk through and be a volunteer for CPC. At that moment, I didn’t realize how God would use me to change three people’s lives.

I decided to become a counselor for a CPC program called “Earn While You Learn.” My couple, Susie and Don (not their real names), had signed up for the program because they wanted to be better equipped to be good parents. As they attended sessions, they could earn CPC Bucks to spend in our Baby Boutique where they could buy everything from diapers to cribs. We met once a week at the CPC center where I had access to a library full of DVDs with accompanying questions, pamphlets and homework questions. The DVDs had information on everything from changes in a pregnant woman’s body to communicating love to your baby. I loved getting to know Susie and Don. They both had difficult experiences in their lives. I believed God wanted me to show His love to this couple. I tried to help them out whenever I could. I invited them out to lunch, over to swim, and have dinner at our house. I became more than a counselor, I became a friend.

CPC also had resources to help me share my faith with Susie and Don. They have a series of Bible studies with verses to look up and questions to answer. The Bible studies weren’t part of the course, but Susie and Don said they were interested in doing them, so every week we went over a Bible study. This gave me an opportunity to share my faith and find out about their religious background. Susie and Don did not have a church home and were not baptized. Over the course of the weeks, I used the Bible studies to point out God’s truths in the Bible and how much He loves us. I did a section on accepting Jesus as our Savior and the importance of baptism. In May, towards the end of our sessions, I asked Susie and Don if they believed in Jesus. They said they did, but they weren’t sure if they were ready to be baptized but they were thinking about baptizing John, their son, when he was born. I encouraged them to think and pray about all of them being baptized, and I would be praying for them. John was born on June 1; we were leaving on June 2, so God made it possible for me to see baby John before I left.

I had made arrangements with Alma, who went to my church and also worked at CPC, to follow up for me with Susie and Don. Alma asked Pastor Dave to call them to talk about baptism, but Pastor Dave went a step farther and took some pizza and cokes over to their house because they lived too far from our church and didn’t have a car. I called Pastor Dave to thank him for calling on them, and he told me the most exciting news: Susie, Don, and John were all going to be baptized in my church in Arizona. Susie asked me to be John’s sponsor/godmother. I was very sad I wasn’t going to be there for the baptism but so excited that God had let me play a part in three people being baptized. They send me lots of pictures, and we text often. Alma is helping them find a church near their home. I can’t wait to see them again in January when we return to Arizona.

Yes, CPC is about keeping babies alive, but it’s also about sharing the love of Jesus. We have our own organization here in Puget Sound called “Care Net.” I hope we will all continue to pray for the work and workers at these centers, so babies can be saved and God’s love can be shared. If God is touching your heart with this ministry, I pray you will volunteer at “Care Net.” The Federal Way “Care Net” is at 1414 S. 324th St, B-105, Federal Way, WA., 98003. The phone number is 253.941.2664.

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GOD STORIES

LOVE IN ACTION

“Praying!”by Jan Grothe

I’m a Facebooker. The computer doesn’t recognize “facebooker” as a word, but made up or not, it describes what I often do. I enjoy reading other people’s posts, “liking” them, and/or making comments. It connects me to so many people! I would love to have these conversations with 800 people at St. Luke’s on a weekend, but it’s just impossible. Facebook has enabled me to connect. As I read posts and comments, I often come across concerns, illnesses, joys, or sorrows that people have. It is encouraging to see comment after comment about people praying for others. “I’ll pray for you,” and “Praying!” are two small statements that carry a lot of weight. Lifting up Facebook prayer concerns has now become part of my daily life.

Prayer draws us closer to our Lord as we realize that He is GOD! He knows everything that happens – before it happens. He knows our heart. He knows the needs of everyone we bring before Him. We can be totally honest with God. Totally. He knows our innermost being. We can absolutely trust Him with our lives – and the lives of others. We can bring any concern to our Lord again and again.

At St. Luke’s, we recently received the following from an anonymous source: “A BIG THANK YOU to each of you who pray! A year ago I sat here in a surreal state of shock and bewilderment, experiencing the full effects of alcohol withdrawal. All I knew was that I needed to be here and I

needed to ask you to pray. It has been a year of ups and downs, but I am SO thankful to have a second chance at life – literally! – physically and spiritually. Please continue to pray that I will allow God to continue to heal, restore, remove chains, and use me for His glory!! Praise: 1 year clean and sober and experiencing new life! ”

We can be praying for someone for a long time and have no idea how our prayers have been answered. Should we keep praying? Sometimes, though not always, we find out how prayers have been answered, like above. It might take a year or two or three… or we may not find out at all! In Luke 18, Jesus told His disciples a parable (The Persistent Widow) “to show them that they should always pray and not give up.”

Be watchful! God may answer a prayer completely different than what we had planned. Even in our persistence, we be aware of how God is working. We may be surprised by what He has in mind. Yet, in His wisdom, He knows what is best.

Our Lord is “able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us.” (Ephesians 3:20) We think we can imagine a lot. We know we ask a lot. God is able to go way beyond that. Waaay beyond! Not only is God indescribably powerful, He also loves us with an unfathomable love. (See Ephesians 3:18-19). Talk with our Lord. He loves us sharing and growing in our relationship with Him.

“For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” (Ephesians 2:10)

God’s gifts come in all shapes and sizes. You may just be the perfect shape and size for a gift He has in mind. It’s OK to ask for help; God has divine insomnia. He never sleeps or slumbers. He is always there to listen, and His “help desk” is open 24/7. He uses the Body of Christ to help you, and we at St. Luke’s are His body. When the storms are brewing and power goes out; when the waters are rising or an earthquake is rumbling, we want to ensure those who are alone, afraid or physically challenged receive a call to check on you. We rally the troops in the fall and winter in what we call Love-in-Action.

One year Susie Smith had been paired with two lovely ladies and was the recipient of one of those “Ah, God!” moments. We had just sent out the notices that requested the volunteer to call their partner. Susie called her lady and found that she had run out of her medicine. The snow was flying, and the lady had no transportation. Susie went and picked her up in her trusty 4-wheel drive, got her medicine and some groceries, and took her home. How neat that God had chosen that moment for Susie to call her lady and check on her.

You can either be the one who needs the assistance and allows someone the opportunity to be of service; or you can

MEMBERSHIP UPDATESBaptized:Isaiah Thissel 09/01 Mason Stoker 10/07Alexandria Zanger 09/02 Olivia Howland 10/21Drew Harris 09/30 Kara Dunlap 11/03Mark Harris 09/30 James Mertel 11/04Kylen Thomson 09/30 Kolbe Wyant 11/04

Weddings:Nate & Olya Snyder 10/13

New Members:Adam and Missy Scholze Erica Preboski (Liam) Elizabeth PyciorEdna Houston (Angelina, Isabella, Victoria)Roberta Donley Palvineo RobinsonSteve Mensching Shigeki and Heidi TanakaJames Mertel Wendy Trail

Death:Gene Nebenfuhr 08/03 Jeanne LaFore 09/24

be the one who is blessed with the opportunity to serve.

There are sign up cards at the Welcome Center, one side is for the recipient, and the other side for the server. The card will be passed on to the Membership team volunteers who will make a match and notify you who you have been assigned to. If you have any questions, please call Sharon Bottomley, Lay Minister for Membership at 253.218.5225.

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program staff support staffgeneral infochris davis

lead pastor

jake allstaedtassociate pastor

kendra breyermissions coordinator

heidi francisdirector of communications

jan grothedirector of spiritual growth

larry kruegerdirector of worship and arts

mitzie olliladirector of children’s ministries

todd zerndirector of operations

donna breyerassistant to the associate pastor

janet brittassistant to the lead pastor

heather halbakkenpreschool registrar

karla harvathassistant to dir of spiritual growth

worship servicessaturday - 5:00 pm

sunday - 8:00, 9:30 and 11:00 am

nursery care available at all services

children’s church and sunday school

available sunday mornings

contact515 s 312th street

federal way, wa 98003253.941.3000

www.stlukes-church.com

St. Luke’s Church515 South 312th StreetFederal Way, WA 98003

RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED

Non-ProfitOrganizationU.S. Postage

PAIDFederal Way, WA 98003

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