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Cover Letter

Soon the hot windy days of August will be over and hopefully some cooler days of September will be here.  A common question that I have been asked and have also asked myself, is “What is God up to?”  With the end of August and the beginning of September we see many things that God is up to.  Through the rest of this article I would like to highlight just some of the things that God has and is up to at Lutheran Memorial and Grace Lutheran Churches.  For our youth school has started.  Thank you to everyone who purchased and bought school supplies for our effort to help children have supplies for school.  On the first day that we gave away school supplies we had people lined up outside the church, before the doors were opened.  One item that we ran out of was backpacks, so if you see a backpack at a garage sale or on sale, you might want to consider picking it up and donating it for next year.  Thanks again for all the donations; they make a difference in the lives of the children and are a way in which God touches the lives of people.

          With the coming of September we will change the time of our second worship service at Lutheran Memorial.  This summer we have been worshiping at 8:30 and 10:00 and with the services on Sunday, September 5 we will worship at 8:30 and 10:30, with Sunday School between the services.  The plans are to continue to have refreshments in the Fellowship hall between the services, so come and enjoy the fellowship as well.  There will also be an adult Sunday School class, so we can get some coffee and then have a time of Bible Study as well.  With September the worship services also change out at Hayes.  During the month of September they will be worshiping at the Methodist church – except on the 12^th when Grace will be celebrating 90 years. The Sunday School will be at 9:00 and worship will be at 10:00. 

          On September 8^th, our Wednesday programming kicks off at Lutheran Memorial.  The 3-5 graders come after school and class starts at 4:00, the age 3 – grade 2 have class that starts at 5:45, and the meal will be served starting at 5:00.  Worship will start at 6:00 and that is the start of the confirmation program.  Worship services this fall will focus on the Small Catechism as the 6^th and 7^th graders will be studying that subject.  The 8^th graders will be studying the New Testament.  The confirmation classes will run from 6:45, the end of worship, to 7:45.     During the confirmation process there will be some Family Nights and the first one will be on Wednesday, September 15^th.  We will have Dr. Jodi Owen with us and she will be talking with the students and parents on the subject of depression and suicide.  The week before that is National Suicide Prevention week and she will be talking about the signs of depression and risks of suicide and what we can do to help. 

          On Sunday, September 12^th the Sunday School program will begin.  It looks to be a great year and we will be looking at having them involved in the Sunday Morning Services on a regular basis this year as they bring God’s love to us through their music.  They will get started at 9:35 and it will run to 10:25. 

          During these first services the 6^th graders will be receiving their confirmation Bibles and we will be installing all of our teachers and helpers with the education program.  It is exciting to see the number of people involved in the education of our children.  We pray that God will enrich them as they share God’s word and love with the students.

          The youth group (grades 6-12) will also be gathering on Sunday, September 12^th and kicking off the year with a movie.  Come and enjoy and have a great time together.  This fall we will also be getting organized for those youth that can head to the National Youth Gathering in New Orleans during the summer of 2012.  It should be a wonderful and meaningful trip and experience.

          In the midst of all of this the Invite Board will be running a fundraising effort to raise funds for the Multi Media fund with the goal of purchasing and installing a projection system.  With this will come another opportunity to serve the congregation as we will need people trained in how to run the projection system.   If you would be interested in this, please contact the church office.

          From September 8^th – 12^th, we will also be focusing on our time and talents.  If you have not filled out the latest time and talent sheet, you will have the opportunity to do so over those days.  There are many ways that you can help serve God through Lutheran Memorial Church and we encourage you to consider what those ways might be.  They are available on the bookshelf in the narthex, where the Bibles are found. 

          Finally, but certainly not last is that on September 12^th everyone is invited to join with Grace Lutheran Church in Hayes to celebrate 90 years.  90 years where God has been active in the community and in the lives of people.  During that time much ministry has taken place.  It will start with a worship service at 2:00 and then following the worship service there will be a time of fellowship and refreshments.

          As I look at all of this and so much more that Lutheran Memorial and Grace Lutheran Church is involved with, there is no doubt that God is doing a great deal here and that He is really up to some things and that God will be touching the lives of many people this fall.  Thank you for what you do to help mak the ministry of God possible and GOD BLESS YOU!

LutheranMemorialChurch

Trustee Board Meeting Minutes

Pierre, SD

Tuesday August 3, 2010

________________________________________________________________________

Board Members:

Present: Brett Koenecke, Rusty Westall, Linda Zeller, Bob Lowery, Janet Haraldson, Gary Dettman, Jo Brakke

Absent: Carrie Ward, Terry Kvislen

Others Present: Pastor Block, Sharon Tisher, Marlene Knudtson

Proceedings:

Meeting called to order at 6:01 PM by Brett Koenecke

Agenda items reviewed

Time & Talent (Linda Zeller)

Information table to be set up on 9/8 Wednesday school beginning, 9/11 church clean up date (to begin at 8AM) and 9/12 (Rally Sunday).

Financial:

June synod payment sent out today 8/3/10.

Will wait on July synod payment until we see how August fares

Property:

Ice dam discussion with Rusty Westall. Rusty received a bid from Ferding Electric of $1000 to install heat tape, needs to speak with an insulation specialist on cost of insulating under roof.

Church cleanup date is set for 8:00 AM on Saturday September 11^th.

TempleTalks:

None planned for over summer. Pastor Block stated that Invite Board is planning to do some Temple Talks. Discussion was prompted by the fact that we will soon be in the process of working our Stewardship campaign and since this board has council approval from sometime in the spring to go ahead with this, they need to be made aware that their project needs to be completed by the end of September so as not to interfere with the Stewardship campaign.  Pastor Block will relay message to the Invite Board

Jo Brakke to provide stewardship article for September.

Endowment:

Discussion took place regarding our Endowment and how dollars are spent. It was agreed that we need to reactivate our Endowment Committee, look into the previous committee’s setup on what should transpire, etc and move forward. Pastor Don suggested that we need to set up categories for this committee; he stated some of the categories from previous congregations he has served.  Jo Brakke also mentioned that she had been a member of this committee of another church and yes, they had 3-4 categories that endowment used when dispersing dollars from the fund.  It was unanimous that we need to honor the people to whom this money was designated and plan dedications.  Pastor Don also suggested that we might want to consider setting up a “Wish List” of items we need and/or want for our church and presenting it to families who want to donate to the church in honor of or in memory of.  Board agreed that this was a good idea. 

Rusty Westall also suggested that we include in the Endowment categories a spot to assist person (s) from our congregation who wish to complete work in the Seminary. He mentioned the fact that Allen Brakke is applying to Synod program and it would be nice if the need arose that we support him in this endeavor.

Discussion on a LMC gift that we received from Ralph Henrickson for $5000.00. It was placed in special funds and will be worked through BankWest Oahe Foundation to go into the Endowment Fund.  It was also suggested that we advise BankWest that they should be following our directive as to where these funds should be placed and it should not solely be at their discretion.

Since we only have $2000.00 in General Fund we will not move any money from this fund into Special Funds “Transition Fund”.

Risograph:

Sharon to get bid on new Risograph. Discussion took place to see if we really need a new one or not. Sharon stated a few months ago she had a quote of $4000-6000 but maybe a little less if we could find one that was a floor model.

Pastor Don:

Core group needed for Synod Stewardship planning meeting. Jo Brakke, Pastor Don, and Bob Lowery will each attend a meeting. Allen Brakke will attend from the congregation. Brett Koenecke will check his calendar and we will be calling Carolyn Hofer to see if she is interested in attending.   Brakke’s will attend 8/21 in Rapid City, Pastor and Bob Lowery on 8/15 in Watertown.

Worksheets for 2011 budget were distributed.

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W/ELCA BOARD MEETING

Monday, August 2, 2010, at 5:30 p.m. in the LMC Conference Room

President Lori Glanzman called the meeting to order and   opened the meeting with devotions.  We read our Statement of Purpose aloud.

Present were Lori Glanzman, Angie Boddicker, Nancy Cutshaw, Marlene Knudtson, Connie Palmer, Nancy Delany and Kathy Villa.  Guest: Al Brakke

Correspondence:  Correspondence was shared.

Secretary’s Minutes:  There being one correction, the date of August 11th, not 17th the minutes stand approved as read.  Motion to approve amended minutes by Nancy Dulany, seconded by Marlene Knudtson. Treasurer’s Report:  Balance:  $4,626.91, Motion was made by Connie Palmer, seconded by Nancy Dulany to accept the treasurer’s report.  Motion carried.  Connie Palmer made motion to pay refrigeration bill, seconded by Nancy Cutshaw. Connie Palmer made a motion to give Al Brakke $200 for his registration fee to the seminary, seconded by Nancy Dulany.

Mission Secretary Reports:

*Action:  School kits will be made for local school and be delivered to schools after visiting with school counselors.  30 quilts were sent to Social Services and 8 to Sky Ranch. 

*Community:  Kathy Villa reported on Synodical Convention in Vermillion.  She was nominated as a delegate for the Triennial Convention in Spokane, WA in July 2011.  Winter planning meeting was held.  In June 2012 LMC will host Convention. April 2012 the spring gathering will be held in Mobridge.

*Growth:  Bible study in the park on August 11 at noon.  31 tickets were ordered for the “Augie Day” that will be held on Oct. 17^th. 

Old Business:

Bazaar- Lori G. will schedule a meeting for all the bazaar committee chairmen.

Decided to order 50 more poem books to have available.

It was decided the Women of Faith Conference will continue to be organized by an outside party, not the W/ELCA Board

Kitchen Clean up- need to remind circles to do their assignments

Hospice Donation- LMC will purchase new roasters

New Business:

Girls Night Out- looking for speakers, discussion on school supplies being stewardship project for Sept.

W/ELCA Board- Need to find a Vice President, or else form a nominating committee to find one

Growth Chair will be Leah Ahartz starting Jan. 2011

Banquet – LMC will serve on Oct. 28

Wednesday night supper starts Sept. 8, Lori will get list finalized.

Kitchen cleanup

  Miriam:  cupboard with dishtowels and above freezer and refrigerator in Shalom Room

  Deb-Martha:  6 sinks, dishwasher and island cupboards and drawers

  Sarah-Naomi  cupboards under window counter and coffee pot area

  Mary-Rebecca:  west wall cupboards

  Ruth:  Refrigerator, south wall cupboards and big sink

            Pantry??

Honorable Mention:  Jeanette Schipper

Upcoming Events:

Bible Study in Park- Aug. 11

Lefse Making- Sept. 11-12

Fall Workshop- Sept. 25

Girls Night Out- Sept. 27

Bazaar- Oct. 9

Blanket Weekend- Oct. 16-17

Banquet- Oct. 28

The meeting was adjourned and the evening concluded with the Lord’s Prayer.

Next Meeting:  Monday, Sept. 6 at 5:30 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Angie Boddicker for Arlene Kvislen, Secretary

 LUTHERAN MEMORIAL CHURCH

Council Meeting

August 3, 2010

Present:  Jeannette Schipper (President), Marlene Knudtson (Treasurer), Kim Brakke (Secretary), Max Gors (Past President), Brett Koenecke (Trustees), Jacque Storm (Invite Board), Sheila Clark Urban (Live Board), Lori Glanzman (W/ELCA), Pastor Don Block, Pastor Lee Stadem.  Absent:  John Hanson (Vice President), Steph Lebeda (Equip Board).

Meeting called to order by President Schipper at 7:05 pm. Pastor Don opened the meeting with a reading from Galatians 5:22.     

Secretary's Report

June 2010 minutes presented for approval. Motion by Koenecke, second by Gors to approve the Church Council minutes from June 2010. Motion carried. 

Treasurer's Report

Knudtson reported July income of $33,799.30 and expenses of $31,990.29. The month end general fund balance was $2,667.15 and special fund balance was $78,675.30. On August 2, we mailed our June Synod payment of $3,800 and still have to make July’s payment.  Motion by Koenecke, second by Gors to accept the Treasurer's Report. Motion carried. 

Call Committee Report

Pastor Don reported that unfortunately Michael Jacobson withdrew his name from being considered for the associate pastor position at LMC. Call committee has received another name already and is looking at doing a phone interview later this week.

Invite Board

Storm reported that they have met three times since the last council meeting. Their main topics of discussion have been the time between services on Sunday and the video projection system to complete the multi-media plan. Food has been provided between services and has been well received. The funds raised will be donated to the youth of our church and it is hoped that they eventually will run things.

The other project is a fundraising campaign for the video projection unit. A letter will be sent out in August with a colored envelope, return addressed to LMC for people to send back their contribution for the project. The board intends to postmore information on the church website and do temple talks. The board looked at doing a demonstration with the equipment, however, the cost was too high. The goal of the fundraising campaign is $25,000. Sharon mentioned that there are 2 cases of “Higher Ground” CDs that are available to sell and Storm is wondering if the funds from those sales could go towards this project. The council agreed that would be a good idea. There will also be some excess funds from the 125^th fund after the tuckpointing project is completed that could also go towards this projection project. Men in Mission and W/ELCA have also expressed interest in helping raise funds, so the Invite Board will pursue fundraisers with those groups. The project fund’s progress will be shown by a puzzle posted in the narthex that will fill in as the funds roll in for the project. .

The board also would like to add a required fee to have someone in the multi media room when weddings and funerals are held to make sure that everything is used properly. There have been a number of occasions where knobs and buttons have been tweaked in the multi-media room and then the settings are not correct for Sunday morning services. The council agreed that it would be a good idea to have a requirement for a LMC trained person paid to oversee the media room for any events. If this happens, Pastor Don would like to see more people trained to do this. Gors motioned, Storm seconded that for any event and use of the media room (wedding, funeral, etc) it will be a requirement to hire a LMC trained multi-media person to oversee the sound system for a minimum payment of $50. Amended to add that the $50 fee would be paid to the individual who comes in to help. Motion carried.   

The board received request from Linda Steele and Lori Koenecke to attend a workshop, however, Invite Board is not scheduled to meet until after the workshop is held. Pastor Don would like to schedule a quick noon meeting later this week to discuss this request prior to the workshop being held this weekend.

The monthly summer potluck this Saturday, the Invite board is looking for someone to organize this Saturday’s potluck. Schipper stated that she will be able to help if the board hasn’t found anyone.

Equip Board

Lebeda is out of town. Pastor Don gave a brief update. The equip board looking for a replacement for their board. The have been working on the confirmation requirement booklet, which Pastor Don emailed to the council last week. Pastor Don and Kari Behm will be meeting with confirmation students starting this Saturday to outline upcoming year with confirmation activities. Current 8^th grade confirmation will be last Sunday in October 2011.

Daycamp kicks off Sunday night – 3^rd – 6^th graders; 55 registered. The camp will be held Monday – Thursday 9 am – 3 pm with final program on Thursday evening.

Live Board

Clark reported that Megan Thorson and Alyssa Dulaney (both raised at LMC) will be a part of the Lutheran Outdoors group here for daycamp. Mark Lawrensen will be LMC contact for website update. Live Board is working on setting up a phone contact for new members. August 15^th, 8:30 service, welcoming new members.

Trustees

Koenecke thanked the boards for their restraint in spending, we are sitting much better financially than anticipated. Church cleanup, 8 am on Saturday, September 11. Rally week is also that week and the time and talent forms will be available to fill out. Budget worksheets have been handed out to board chairpersons.

Churchwide is starting a new stewardship campaign, this campaign will solicit pledges directly from individuals rather than collecting funds from the church office. Several trustees are going to training Sunday Aug 15, Sat Aug 21, Sun Aug 22, and Koenecke would like to see some members of the council also attend.

The transition fund is below $2,000.00. We will need to start replenishing that account as soon as possible.

Children’s “noisy” offering will begin this fall.

W/ELCA

Glanzman reported that they met last night and are working on planning for the bazaar on October 9^th. Working on schedule for Wednesday night meals. Proceeds from quilt raffle will go towards the projector project. Alan Brakke requested financial assistance from W/ELCA for his seminary application.

Pastor Don

Natural Church Development survey is complete and has been submitted. Once we have received the results a meeting will be held with the taskforce – hopefully in late August. Goal is that by late September / early October we will begin implementing the suggestions.

“Faith Comes by Hearing” – for-profit organization designed with the idea that when we hear the word of God that it helps build their faith. They are working on a new program to develop a memory stick that would include a recording of the entire New Testament for service men and women. Pastor Don was approached by the organization to see if we would help raise funds for this project to pay for memory sticks to be distributed to service men and women overseas. The council did not want to advertise this and ask our members to donate, due to other fundraising already committed to. The council was in favor of purchasing these sticks for any LMC service men and women who are overseas.

Faith Talks – How do we get more faith conversations happening in the family? CD Rom - $50 a year with topics for each week for families to discuss faith with youth in the home. Clark-Urban motioned, Koenecke seconded to approve the purchase of this CD. Motion carried.

Pew Pads – Pastor Don and Pastor Lee will encourage both members and visitors to sign in on the pew pads. Clark-Urban said that she will contact members of the Live Board to see if they would resume calling visitors.

Kari Behm – Christian Education and Youth Director starts full time this Saturday.

Pastor Don is thankful for the endowment gift in memory of Doris Henrickson in the amount of $5,000.00.

Pastor Don would like boards to create a “wish list” that could be shared with families who are looking at giving gifts to the church.

Need to discuss what time the second service will be starting in September. The council agreed that a 10:30 start time during the fall / winter months and summer services in the future will begin at 10 am.

Pastor Lee

Pastor Lee continues to assist Pastor Don where needed and read a day from his journal from July.  He is staying busy keeping in touch with members and non members in our community.

Book of Faith – Sheila Clark Urban

Keynote speaker was Ralph Jacobson. Hopes to start a “Book of Faith” 6-week home-based Bible study this fall.

Constitution Review Committee Update

Next meeting Wednesday, August 4^th. The council would like to receive the constitution recommendations at least one week prior to the council meeting on Tuesday, September 7^th.  

Young Family Activities

Next Young Family Event is Sunday, September 26^th at 5 pm. The event will be a potluck at the church. Other upcoming events will be a fall-fest in October with apple bobbing and pumpkin carving, and bowling in November.

Theological Conference

Last weekend in September at Pierre Ramkota, Pastor Don will be attending. Closing worship and breakfast will be held here at our church.

Energy Audit

A speaker at the Synod Assembly reported that they asked their youth to complete an energy audit of their church facilities which resulted in significant savings.  This will be brought to the Trustees for their consideration.

Draft Social Statement on Genetics

The ELCA statement on genetics has been drafted and will be voted on at Churchwide at the 2011 assembly. Comments should be submitted by August 15, 2010.  The website for information on this social statement:  http://www.elca.org/genetics

Other Business

Children’s Choir – Kari Behm and others have met to work on re-establishing the LMC Children’s Choir. Although the goal is to eventually have several choirs spanning many ages and grades, Behm and the organizational group would like to start with only one choir while getting organized. The group liked the idea of offering the children’s choir to 5 year olds – 2^nd graders. Behm is currently working on lining up a director for the group, as well as a piano player.

Produce table – a produce table has been set up in the Narthex; all proceeds will benefit the multi-media projector project.

Pastor Don will be attending a Head of Staff workshop in February.

Koenecke motioned, Glanzman to adjourn meeting. Meeting adjourned at 9:54 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Council Secretary

Kim Brakke

BULLETIN BOARD

FINANCIALS

Financial information through 8-30-2010

General Fund Offerings                                                  $286,900

Needed/Week to meet budget                                             11,872
Average Received/Week                                                      8,197

2010 Income/Expenses for General Fund

Income for August 1-31  =    $41,572

*Disbursements for August 1-31   =   $42,320

*LMC's $3,833 August payment to SD Synod has been delayed

_______________________________________________________________________

MENU FOR SEPTEMBER
September 8-Pizza, salad, fruit

September 15-BBQ's, corn, pickle spear, fruit

September 22-Potato Bar with chili and cheese, hotdogs and bun, celery and carrot sticks

September 29-Waffles, sausage and fruit salad

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Baptisms:

Hayden Lee Northrup, son of Matt and Margo Northrup. Sponsors are Robin and Chris Carlson.

Campbell Kay Steffensen, daughter of Patrick and Tami Steffensen. Sponsors are Jeani and Jesse Vincent, Vikki and Steve Hasche.

Sydney Piper Ellingson, daughter of Jess and Tonya Ellingson. Sponsors are Tyler and Jessica Steele, Bobby and Lindsey Rogers.

Sayth Robert Cronin, son of Shaun Cronin and Jane Stewart. Sponsors are Vera Cronin and Levi Stewart.

Ava Ruby Gors, daughter of Aaron and Melissa Gors. Sponsors are Dale and Patty Person.

Maysie Lorene Kuipers, daughter of Wade and Rosemarie Kuipers. Sponsors are Rochelle and Meghan Scott, Brad and Mandy Kuipers.

Lydiah Fayelouise Kuipers, daughter of Wade and Rosemarie Kuipers. Sponsors are Rochelle and Meghan Scott, Brad and Mandy Kuipers.

**********************************************************************

Funerals:
July 28: Roy Sibley
July 30: Bonnie Gardner
August 24: Floriene Schwalm
Memorial Service July 31: Doris Henrickson

************************************************************************

Weddings:

July 24 - Brittany Kroll and John Bergeson

July 30 - Megan Rapp and Jerred Deal

July 31 - Kayla Prince and Kyle Kusek

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Happenings at Hayes
September services begin at 9:00

September 5                        Methodist
September 12                      Lutheran Memorial (Grace 90 years at 2:00pm)
September 19                      Methodist

September 26                      Lutheran Memorial

LMC School Happenings

September 2010

Day Camp

Day Camp was held August 8^th-12^th. There were 55 kids that attended!! The children had a great time learning about “Keeping the Earth.” A special thank you to Alyssa Dulany for volunteering her time to serve as a counselor. We were also lucky enough to have one of LMC’s own, Megan Thorson, as one of the five NeSoDak counselors. Thank you to the following people for their willingness to serve meals, host counselors, or provide lunches for the counselors: Barb Bjorneberg, Lori and Claire Koenecke, Lyle and Linda Thorson, Curt and Onie Neuharth, and Ben and Nance Orson.

Backpack Program

Thank you to everyone who donated school supplies!! Your generous donations helped to fill 33 backpacks and 15 sacks of school supplies. Thank you!!! 

Wednesday and Sunday School

The first day of WednesdaySchool is September 8^th. The first day of Sunday School is September 12^th. If you have not registered your child yet, please go to http://www.lutheranmemorial.org/Education.aspx On the right hand side, click on Religious Education Form. Fill it out and email it to kbehm@lutheranmemorial.org, or drop it off in the church office.

Wednesday’s Schedule

3:00-4:00 After School Hour for 3^rd-5^th graders: Come and enjoy a fun time with your friends while you play games, create art projects, or get a bit of help on your homework.

4:00-5:00 Wednesday School Classes for 3^rd-5^th graders

5:00-6:00 Supper

5:45-6:45 Wednesday School Classes for 3 year olds-2^nd grade

6:00-6:45 Worship

6:00-7:45 Confirmation

Sunday’s Schedule

8:30-9:30 Worship

9:35-10:25 Sunday School Classes for 3 year olds-5^th grade

9:35-10:25 Fellowship Hour

10:30-11:30 Worship

Early Release Days

Students in grades 3-5 are welcome to come to LMC on early release days. The first early release day is Wednesday September 29^th at 12:30. We hope to see you then!!

Confirmation

Confirmation begins September 8^th at 6:00 for the 6^th-8^th graders. Remember to bring your Bibles!! 6^th graders will receive their Bibles during the worship service on Wednesday September 8^th. 7^th graders need to register for the year and sign the covenant. The forms can be found by going to http://www.lutheranmemorial.org/Education.aspx On the right hand side, click on Confirmation Form. Fill it out and bring it to Confirmation on September 8^th.

Stepping Stones Program

*3 Year Olds: Receive Prayer Pillows

• Parents may choose from ONE of the following dates to attend the parent meeting and for their child to receive the prayer pillow.

-Wednesday September 15^th: A parent meeting will be held from 5:45-6:25 in the fellowship hall. Children will be excused from Wednesday class at 6:25. They will receive the prayer pillow at 6:30 during the worship service on Wednesday September 15^th.

-Sunday September 19^th:  A parent meeting will be held from 9:45-10:25 in the fellowship hall. Children will receive prayer pillows during the 10:30 worship service on Sunday September 19^th.

*1^st Graders: Receive Devotional Cards

• Parents may choose from ONE of the following dates to attend the parent meeting and for their child to receive the devotional cards.

-Wednesday September 29^th: A parent meeting will be held from 5:45-6:25 in the fellowship hall. Children will be excused from Wednesday class at 6:25. They will receive the Devotional Cards at 6:30 during the worship service on Wednesday September 29^th.

-Sunday October 3^rd: Parent meeting will be held from 9:45-10:25 in the fellowship hall. Children will receive Devotional Cards during the 10:30 worship service on Sunday October 3^rd.

*3^rd Graders: Receive Bibles

• Parents and children may choose from ONE of the following dates to attend the meeting and for their child to receive the Bible.

-Wednesday September 22^nd: Parents and 3^rd graders will attend a meeting together from 5:45-6:25 in the fellowship hall. Children will receive Bibles at 6:30 during the worship service on Wednesday September 22^nd.

-Sunday September 26^th: Parents and 3^rd graders will attend a meeting from 9:45-10:25 in the fellowship hall. Children will receive Bibles during the 10:30 worship service on Sunday September 26^th.

*6^th Graders: Receive Bibles

• Bibles will be given to 6^th graders during the 6:00 worship service on Wednesday September 8^th.

Activities at LMC

There is something for EVERYONE!!

MOPS

MOPS is dedicated to the message that "mothering matters" and that moms of young children need encouragement during these critical years. MOPS of LMC helps mothers find friendship and acceptance, provides leadership opportunities, and promotes spiritual growth. MOPS also provides speakers on topics related to mothering. MOPS is for all moms with children ages birth to kindergarten. Please join us! MOPS meets in the LMC fellowship hall on the 2^nd and 4^th Thursdays of the month from 6:00pm-8:00pm. From 6:00-6:30, moms and children enjoy a meal. From 6:30-8:00, the moms enjoy fellowship together while the children partake in the MOPPETS Program. The MOPPETS program consists of responsible adults caring for your children and providing age appropriate activities such as singing, arts and crafts, and play time.

MOPS of LMC September Schedule

·        September 9^th: Welcome

·        September 23^rd Going Green: The effect chemicals have on your children

For more information on MOPS of Pierre or to volunteer with our MOPPETS program (childcare during MOPS meetings), please contact

• Coordinator: Jessi Horsley 280-6048 or raymond_horsley@yahoo.com
• Co-Coordinator:Carrie Cushing 494-0555 or carrie_lindquist@hotmail.com

Young Family Event

Come to the next Young Family Event!! It is scheduled for Sunday September 26^th at 5:00pm. This is a potluck event that will be held in the fellowship hall. Please bring a dish to share, along with your own plates, napkins, utensils, and beverages. No RSVP necessary. We hope to see you there!!

Mark these dates on your calendar for upcoming Young Family Events.

ü      Fall Fest: October 24^th from 3:00-5:00

This event will be filled with fun fall activities, such as painting pumpkins      and face painting.

ü      Bowling: November-stay tuned for date and time

SOUPER GROUP

This group is for 1^st and 2^nd graders and will meet about once a month. Stay tuned for upcoming events!!

JAM (JESUS AND ME)

This group is for 3^rd-5^th graders and will meet about once a month. Stay tuned for upcoming events!!

6^th-12^th Grade Youth Group

The next youth group event is scheduled for Sunday September 12^th from 5:30-8:00 at the church. We will be watching a movie and ordering pizza. Come and enjoy a great time with your friends!!

Children’s Choir

We are happy to announce that Laura Schoen-Carbonneau is the Director for the Children’s Choir. The Children’s Choir is for children 5 years of age through 2^nd grade. Practices will begin later in September and held on Mondays from 5:15-5:45. If you are interested in playing piano for the Children’s Choir, please contact Laura Schoen-Carbonneau at laurajoy@pie.midco.net

LMC Opportunities for Mission with the South Dakota Women’s Prison

The assignment of whether this is a function of WELCA or Live Board is at this point a recommendation only.

There is a great deal of discussion going on and many pages being written these days about what should be done with the many inmates in our state prison systems. Many things have been tried and few of them have made a real difference. We as Christians know that God is the one who changes lives. HE is the light in the darkness. It only makes sense that we as Christians in churches of all denominations make an effort to introduce prison inmates to God.

How is it that you first hear about God’s love and forgiveness? What one thing has had the most influence on your growth and development as a Christian? Most of you, I think, would answer the church. Having the opportunity to worship and fellowship with a group of people who believed as you did about spiritual things made a difference. Having regular access to the teaching and pastoral care of a committed minister helped you live a Christian life. Prison inmates have a great need for these opportunities also and for most of them, they do not exist. In 1994, there were only three prison congregations in the entire United States. Recognizing the great need, there is a move now to establish prison congregations in the prison system of every state in the country.

In the fall of 1997, a new women’s prison opened in Pierre, South Dakota. A worship congregation was the first ministry to be provided for them. The congregation is called the Church of Hope. Since foundation of the Church of Hope, the church has developed many programs and new programs are being added every year.  Here are just of few of the programs happening at the Prison under the direction of Church of Hope and Stephen Ministry.

Worship Service: Live Board – on going throughout the year

Budget: 0

The Church of Hope worship services are on Saturday evenings at 8:00pm. Outside congregations are invited to come and be their guest at their worship services.  Five guests, men and women from the outside are permitted to attend a worship service but must receive special clearance. This program requires preapproval of at least two weeks in advance. Lutheran Memorial is going to start attending once every 6 to 8 weeks. Please contact the church office to sign up to be a guest at the prison’s worship services and for the required clearance forms. The clearance forms will be good for one full year.

Prison Fellowship: Live Board –three times a year

Budget: 0

Prison Fellowship is a national program started by Chuck Colson, which involves seminars, bible studies, Angel Tree and aftercare programs. The Church of Hope and LMC helps to sponsor three seminars a year for the women. The seminars invite 10-12 volunteers from outside the institution to come in, participate as leaders, and table guides.  Prison Fellowship provides all materials to us. Seminars run Friday evenings and all day Saturday. Seminars average participation of about 45 inmates. The next seminar will be in September 2010. If interested sign up sheets will be in the narthex.

Angel Tree: Live Board – Nov-Dec

Budget: to be determined

Churches all over the United States help sponsor inmate children at Christmas through a program called Angel Tree run by Prison Fellowship. Through the program, individuals and their churches purchase a gift on an inmate’s behalf, so that the child does not feel forgotten at Christmas. This is a way to show that Mom or Dad, who are not able to buy a gift for their child, still care very much for their children. It also provides an opportunity for our church to invite the families of inmate to be a part of your worship and church so that they too may grow in faith and see the hope for a better life through Christian living. Please watch for the angel on the Christmas tree in the narthex during the month of November.

Babies Delivered While Mom Is Incarcerated: WELCA

Budget: 0

Several women come into the prison pregnant and deliver babies while in prison. Depended on the financial situation and their security clearance some moms are able to keep their newborns for up to 30 days. Church of Hope helps new mom out with diapers, formula, wipes, lotions, soaps, blankets, and sleepers. The Church has also purchase items like bottles, bottle warmers, rockers, baby swings. All of these items help make the experience more meaningful for both mom and baby. A cradle will be set up in the narthex by the nursery if you care to donate some items for the babies of inmates.

Exit Bags: WELCA

Budget: 0

Many women leaving the prison find it difficult to start life over and usually are faced with returning to the outside with nothing more than the clothes they are leaving the prison with and $30.oo to their name. Exit Bags are given to each inmate as she leaves the prison. They include personal items such as toothpaste, toothbrushes, combs, shampoo, soap, and deodorant. Donations for the exit bags are always welcome.  Place the items in a gallon zip lock and drop off at the church. These bags will be kept on hand at the church for anyone who stops by our church for a helping hand.

Crochet Classes: WELCA

Budget: 0

Inmates are learning to crochet. Volunteers from outside the prison currently are coming into the prison every Monday night to teach inmates to crochet. Once they learn, they put their new skills to good use. Each participant is given a packet of donated yarn to makes a lap blanket, cap, mittens or scarf. When the project is completed, the item is donated to needy children, nursing homes, hospice patients, VA hospitals, or a special project determined by the group. This program gives inmates a feeling of pride being able to give to someone else in need and helps to occupy some of their time will in prison. We are in need of volunteers to help teach the inmates and yarn for the projects. If you know how to crochet and would love to teach others please consider volunteering your time on Monday evenings.

W2 Program (Woman to Woman): Live Board –On going

Budget: 0

The W2 program (woman to woman) is a volunteer program that was originally started in 1998 by Lutheran Memorial for the South Dakota Women’s Prison. The program is modeled after our Stephen Ministry program. The W2 program matches a woman who is incarcerated in the South Dakota Women’s Prison with a woman from the community to come and be a visitor and mentor. Many women who are incarcerated do not have any family or friends to come and visit them during their time in prison. Prison can be a very lonely place. Prison is a place with little hope, love or compassion. To have someone to come and visit, means a great deal to someone who feels all alone. Special training is required to be a part of the W2 program. Training is about 2 hours. Visitations hours for W2’s are on Friday evening, Saturday afternoon, Sunday afternoon or Monday evenings. The visits between the W2 and inmate last about one hour and are anywhere from once a week to once a month. The next training to become a W2 is September 30, 7:00 pm at Lutheran Memorial.

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 Stewardship article for September newsletter

10 Principles Stewardship

Respond gratefully to what God has first

given us. All that we do is a response to God’s grace. Everything we are, have, and use comes from God. Best of all, God gives the gift of Jesus Christ and the community of believers. It all begins with God. Our confession of faith in Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior is not of our doing.

Grateful stewards put God first. “…but they gave themselves first to the Lord.”

2 Corinthians 8:5

As baptized members of the body of Christ, we gratefully confess Jesus as our Lord and Savior. We boldly proclaim the gospel as the Word of God. We clearly recognize the gifts that God has first given us through grace, and we joyfully accept our role and responsibility as stewards. The following principles provide a foundation for the life of a faithful and generous steward. We walk together as stewards in God’s church.

1. Respond gratefully 2. Obey responsibly 3. Sacrifice proportionately 4. Give willingly 5. Share abundantly 6. Give proportionately 7. Commit intentionally

8. Contribute regularly 9. Live genuinely 10. Accept a challenge

God’s Blessings.

Jo Brakke

Trusteee

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Help warm hearts and touch lives with Thrivent Choice

If you are a member of Thrivent Financial for Lutherans, you have a new way to help support what matters most to you—even your own congregation.

Through Thrivent Choice, a new charitable grant program, members can help choose where Thrivent Financial distributes some of its charitable funds each year.

The program has two components: Voting Events and Choice Dollars.

Through Voting Events, all members age 16 and older can vote to help choose where Thrivent Financial distributes funds among a short list of national organizations. Voting Events occur one or two times each year.

Eligible benefit members also are designated Choice Dollars. By directing Choice Dollars, they can request funding for thousands of Lutheran organizations nationwide, including Lutheran Memorial Church  Potential designated Choice Dollars amounts that can be directed range from $25 to $500 for each eligible member. Some members have already received their letters which tell you how to go online or call in to designate these funds.  The letter will contain a dollar figure which is what you will be able to designate over the year.  When you log on or call in, you will only be able to designate a part of that, but you can also designate where future funds are to go.

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Fundraiser, Picnic and Hootenanny

Join us at Steamboat Park Amphitheater (Fellowship hall at LMC in case of bad weather) on Sunday, September 19, 2010.  Funds raised will be donated to Multi Media Fund to purchase video projection equipment.  Burgers, brats, drinks and utensils will be provided.  You can bring a dish to pass and a generous spirit!

WELCA News

   SOUTH DAKOTA SYNODICAL WOMEN OF THE ELCA

UPCOMING EVENTS

August 2-Board Meeting, 5:30 in the Board Room

Aug. 11-Bible Study in Park

Lefse Making- Sept. 11-12

Sept. 25-Fall Workshop

Sept. 27-Girls Night Out

Oct. 9-Bazaar

Oct. 16-17-Blanket Weekend

Oct. 28-Banquet

September Stewardship Project

Bring school supplies to the church & deposit in box in Narthex.

Also Box Tops for Education (pink & white labels).  Mission Action Contact: Nancy Cutshaw, 224-8195

LMC is now on facebook! Go to www.facebook.com and become a member of the group Lutheran Memorial Church. This will be a great tool to join in on a discussion or to stay up to date on upcoming events. Check it out!!

September 2010

Fall Bazaar: The Fall Bazaar is October 9th, which is just around the corner. We are busy crafting and hope you are too! If you need ideas, be looking for the craft file to show up again in the coffee room. In addition, we have been soliciting items for the donation drawing and have come up with some fun new items. The quilt is at the quilter's; the proceeds from the quilt raffle will to towards LMC's multi-media fund raiser. We need everyone to bring baked goods for the bake sale and kitchen. We'll need help making lefse in September, and lots of workers the day of the Bazaar. There will be many opportunities for you to serve and we need everyone's help to make this a success. Thanks for your help.

Board Member Needed: 

Every woman who is a member of LMC is a member of W/ELCA, and now is your chance to take advantage of this opportunity to get more involved as a Board member.  W/ELCA is looking for someone to fill the Vice President position.  The Board meets the first Monday of each month (skipping July) at 5:30 and meetings last about 1-1.5 hours.  You would need to attend the monthly meeting, and help make other board decisions.  For more specifics on the position, please contact a Board Member.

Bible Study:

Ladies, mark your August calendars for our Bible Study in Griffin Park at noon on Wednesday, August 11th. Bring a lunch, beverages will be provided. Pastor Don will lead the Lutheran Woman's August lesson.  Everyone is welcome!

Reminder: If you have a secret prayer partner that was chosen at last fall’s Girls Night Out, remember to let her know she is in your prayers.  A quick card in the mail will bring a smile to her face.

Kitchen Cleaning:  Please check the schedule in the W/ELCA meeting notes so all Circle Groups clean their assigned area.  Thanks to those who help out with this project.

Check out this website:  Lutheran Outdoors in South Dakota http://www.losd.org/

Honorable Mention: Our honoree this month is Jeannette Schipper.

Jeannette can always be found doing something at the church.  She is currently the President of the Council of LMC, she also participates in Bell Choir, is a Wednesday school teacher, she is also a caller for groups when we need help at the church.  She has also organized the LMC Book Club which has been very successful.  Jeannette never fails to help out in some way.  God Bless Jeannette!