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S T . P A U L ’ S U M C | 7 0 0 W E S L E Y L A N E | MENDOTA HEIGHTS MN 55118 Epistle Inspired by God’s love, we: offer a spiritual oasis, teach one another to serve, and reach out to encourage others to know Christ. May 2018 REFLECTIONS FROM PASTOR AMY JO As I write this, we are preparing for ‘Truly I tell you, just as you did it As a lay person, I have been a part UMW Sunday and a special guest to one of the least of these who are of two different congregations that speaker from Simpson Housing, members of my family,[g] you did it have opened their buildings to who will talk about ministry with to me.’” (Matthew 25:35-36, 40) house the homeless. The first was a the homeless in the twin cities area. The parable points back to the great small congregation that was part of I am so very glad that the UMW commandment at the heart of the Interfaith Hospitality Network. made the decision to focus on Christianity—love God and They were part of a group of homelessness as their theme for neighbor. It also helps us churches that took turns for a week worship on April 30, because it is a remember that “loving” our at a time providing shelter for chronic problem to which neighbor is not simply a feeling of homeless families with children. Christians are called to reach out in kindness, but also the day-to-day Most of the adults in these families mission. In the twin cities area, it is acts of helping others who are in were employed, but had lost their estimated that approximately need—sometimes this is helping housing when the cost of a family 15,000 persons are homeless on any those with the most basic needs for emergency had gone beyond what given night, and over the course of food, shelter, or hospitality. their savings could cover. The a year 40,000 people experience directors of emergency shelters in homelessness for some period of the area had noted the special needs time. Simpson Housing began as of children for a quiet space to get the ministry of a local United homework done and an earlier Methodist Church and grew into a evening quiet time to allow for much larger, separate ministry of its adequate sleep for the growing own. young bodies of toddlers. The churches and synagogues in the Most Christians are familiar with area responded by forming a team the parable from Matthew 25, in to provide for these special needs, which the great king separates opening their buildings as shelter people based on their deeds of and providing volunteers to help caring for others, saying: “I was with homework in the evening and hungry and you gave me food, I pack lunches in the morning. Our was thirsty and you gave me some- congregation was blessed with the thing to drink, I was a stranger and time we spent getting to know these you welcomed me, I was naked and families in transitional housing. you gave me clothing, I was sick (continued on page 2) and you took care of me, I was in prison and you visited me . . .
Epistle May 2018 (continued from page 1) In another congregation, we lived and conversation with those in pounds of food to the Neighbors, in a warmer climate, with only a need. We grew in our faith as we Inc. food bank, packing meals for handful of freezing nights each lived out our Christian calling to Feed My Starving Children, and year. Many homeless persons in love our neighbor, and it was traveling in mission to Spirit Lake that city would camp outdoors ex- through this volunteer service that I Ministry Center together. Both cept for on the very coldest nights first heard God’s call to ordained Emma Norton Services and Spirit of the year. On those coldest ministry. Lake Ministry Center were founded nights, the emergency shelters were by people from the United Method- well beyond capacity. Once again, Although Saint Paul’s UMC does ist Church. Thank you for all the the churches in the area responded not operate a homeless ministry ways that you participate in active to the need, opening their buildings within our own congregation’s mission at Saint Paul’s UMC. only on freeze nights to accommo- building, we actively participate in, Working together, we live out the date the overflow of the emergency partner with, and support many commandments to love God and shelters. The simple acts of hospi- ministries of mercy and compas- neighbor. Along the way, we see a tality: a warm meal and a shelter sion: providing nutritious food glimpse of Christ in each person conveyed our love of neighbor in a through Sheridan story, volunteer- that we meet, and we grow in our real and tangible way. Our congre- ing at Emma Norton Services and own faith. gation was blessed in sharing meals Lewis House, sending hundreds of EARLY RESPONSE BASIC Interested in volunteering for While registering you will be asked hurricane relief through UMCOR to provide your certificate number, TRAINING & or responding to local natural or you can pay for the on-line RECERTIFICATION disasters? Become an Emergency course and a link will be sent to Response Team (ERT) member! you. The cost is $22 and will take COURSE This training gives you the approximately 90 minutes to MAY 29, 2018 credentials and skills to enter complete. 8:00 am - 4:30 pm disaster-torn areas. Prerequisites to Cost: $20 take ERT Basic Training or Deadline: May 15, 2018; 12:00 am KELLY INN, Re-certification: Must be 18 years Questions/contact: ST. CLOUD of age and have a current Safe pkcolton@gmail.com Gatherings certificate. 651-452-5683 | info@stpaulsmn.org | www.stpaulsmn.org Page 2
Epistle May 2018 CHRIS’ CORNER replete with examples of how don’t change for the sake of change has affected society, for change. We change because we elpizosfire@gmail.com better and worse. I recall when I realize it’s one of God’s gifts to 651-925-4172 first started learning how to “text” help us develop into the kind of Change instead of simply type as I first did people we hope to become. Most of you will have heard by back when I first learned on a now that I will be leaving St. Paul’s Change is good and yes even typewriter. Yes, I said typewriter. I spiritual: UMC in mid-June. My family and I am THAT old! Texting, as I was will be moving to Omaha, The Bible is a book full of people instructed, is much more effective changing. Some examples: Nebraska. We believe this step will and easier when you mainly utilize be good for our family. Of course, Abraham follows a call from God your thumbs, although that’s not to leave his homeland to wherever we are very excited for our next the only way to text. The change to adventure and sad for those that we God would lead him without even using mostly my thumbs was not knowing his destination. Now that’s will leave behind. Not only are we easy at first. But after awhile I got leaving the wonderful people of St. a HUGE change. Yikes. Scary, the hang of it. Which brings me to maybe, but a faith-filled change. Paul’s UMC, but we will also be another thought. leaving behind two adult The religious leader children and one grand- Saul, who later becomes child. All that to say we the Apostle Paul in the will be back when possi- book of Acts, was con- ble. We have had many fronted by Jesus to adventures in our lives change and follow thus far. The one we are another path. Changing preparing for is unlike from an egocentric life any other and presents its and one of threatening fair share of potential joys others to one of peace, and challenges. There are inclusion and many changes on the compassion. horizon for us. And since The Apostle Peter (a change is a theme that is Jewish man) with a vi- much on my mind these sion, suddenly having to days I thought I would share a few rethink and change his understand- additional thoughts. Change is necessary: Yes, change ing of who (namely Gentiles) could in life is necessary. Although be considered “clean” and welcome Change is hard: Yes, change is to belong to the community of faith. hard. Let’s just admit that up front. sometimes change can feel uneasy (Pssst. In case you didn’t know Whether it means change in and make us sad it is also the Gentiles = You and I). Good thing systems, change in location, change pathway to greater growth and he had that vision, huh? in family dynamic or change of maturity. Our bodies are constantly people. Change often breaks up changing. Especially young Change is hard. Change is routine and what we are familiar peoples. Often, all those hormones necessary, and change is good. In with. Change can be a de-stabilizer. are a part of a change process that subsequent months I hope to share Change can make people feel like is developing them into the wonder- more about what my time at St. things are “lost”. And maybe in ful and talented persons they are Paul’s has meant to me personally some ways they are. But change already becoming. Even as adults and my hopes and prayers for its can also bring gains and create we quickly realize that if we don’t future. stability in other ways. History is change we become stagnant. We 651-452-5683 | info@stpaulsmn.org | www.stpaulsmn.org Page 3
Epistle May 2018 CHILDREN CONFIRMATION Things we learned... SAVE THE DATE FOR VACATION Confirmands at St. Paul's are on a AND YOUTH path of discovery and learning about the Christian faith in the BIBLE SCHOOL Vacation Bible School is returning to St Paul's UMC in 2018! SIGN Helping families Methodist tradition. God is making a new creation out YOUR KIDS UP TODAY! This nurture lifelong of the world we are currently living year's theme is Hero Central and will be held June 25th-29th. Contact in. This new creation includes disciples of Christ people, families, institutions, the Director of Family Ministry and Mission, Chris Archer at systems and even nations. Jesus speaks often of the elpizosfire@gmail.com for more Kingdom of God. This is a details. We also need many metaphor for God’s new creation. volunteers to help us this year. A reality where God’s wishes and will reigns. EASTER We can help create the Kingdom We had our annual Easter Egg Hunt of God “on earth as it is in heaven” this year along with other family by our words, actions and the kind activities. A fun day for all! of life we live. On May 20th five of our youth will ONE ROOM SUNDAY be confirmed into the Methodist SCHOOL—JUNE 3rd understanding of faith: Jillian We know what summer means at Arnold, Catey Chastain, Janelle church. People travel, family Hamilton, Sarah Pressinger and activities going on, etc. We get it. Julia Taurinskas. We hope you will We make a shift, too, to One Room join them, their families and Sunday School. We combine both mentors in celebrating both during of our children's Sunday School and after worship. classes into one. Youth Sunday School is canceled for the summer CAMPING months although there will still be United Methodist Camping opportunities to gather, hang out opportunities are available for and yes even LEARN (cue the Summer 2018. Check out the dramatic music). Jedlicka Family - camping options online at https:// rd Easter Egg Hunt ORSS will begin June 3 and starts www.campminnesota.org/ or find at approximately 10:15 am, after one of the catalogues located Children’s Chat in worship. around the church. You can also We like to give our regular Sunday speak with Chris Archer at school teachers throughout the year elpizosfire@gmail.com or a summer break. If you have an 651-925-4172. Scholarships may be interest in helping teach one available! Sunday this summer, please contact Chris Archer, the Director of Family Ministry and Missions. 651-452-5683 | info@stpaulsmn.org | www.stpaulsmn.org Page 4
Epistle May 2018 MAY 20th CONFIRMATION AND Those continuing on their PENTECOST SUNDAY confirmation journey into the One of the principal days of the TEACHER APPRECIATION 2nd year: Mallory Brandecker, Along with welcoming our newest Christian year, Pentecost is Colton Genadek celebrated on the 50th day after confirmands to the congregation, we will also recognize our Sunday Easter. The Greek word pentecoste We will also honor Sunday School means "fiftieth day." School Teachers. Come and help us teachers and those that work with celebrate! our children and youth: Pentecost is the day on which the Christian church commemorates the Those being confirmed and coming of the Holy Spirit upon the received into church Jo and Jack Baker, Lindsey membership: Jillian Arnold, Bunting, Amy Jo and Scott Bur, apostles and others assembled in Catey Chastain, Janelle Nancy Grinager, Katie and Jim Jerusalem. It marks the beginning Hamilton, Lyndsay Howard, of the Christian church and is often Hamilton, Julia Taurinskas, Sarah Wagner Barb Jorgenson, Andrea Larson, referred to as the birthday of the Corrine Mahoney, Rhea church. Mentors: Chris Archer, Nyquist, Nancy Pierson, Jude Please wear red to worship to Lindsey Bunting, Barb Rikala, Bettie Robinson, Jade symbolize the fire of God’s spirit! Helmken, Barb Jorgenson, Roper, Carla Taurinskas, Mary A field of red filling the pews will Carol Rix Taurinskas, Leslie Watkins, surely have an impact, creating Jeanette Wells, and all of our lasting memories for everyone, parent volunteers. memories of the fire of the Holy Spirit. May 13th JUNE 3rd MAY CALENDAR LOVE OFFERING SUMMER WORSHIP HOUR May 6: Vacation Bible School The theme of the 2018 Annual Starting June 3rd, worship hour will Meeting #3 Conference session—taking place begin at 10:00 am, with One Room May 30– June 1 in St. Cloud—is Sunday School beginning at 10:15 May 11-12: Confirmation “Discover Joy: Live Deeply”. am. Mark your calendars! Retreat Funds will go to three projects. Puerto Rico Hurricane GRADUATION SUNDAY May 13: Kidz 2gether worship Recovery Trips (65 percent) We will be celebrating with our & Mother’s Day Park Avenue UMC Children’s graduates on June 3rd. If you are a Defense Fund Freedom Schools graduate, or if you know a graduate May 20: Confirmation & Program (20 percent) from high school, college, post- Teacher Appreciation NUMAS Haus, providing graduate or other training shelter and support to homeless institution, please call the church May 27: Bible Bucks store single women and their children in office (651-452-5683) Bring Your Own New Ulm and surrounding Brown with the following: Picnic after worship County. (15 percent) Name on the front lawn Mark “Love Offering” on your School check memo and/or giving May 28: Memorial Day Degree and future plans envelope. 651-452-5683 | info@stpaulsmn.org | www.stpaulsmn.org Page 5
Epistle May 2018 UMW PICNIC UMW CIRCLES SMALL JUNE 4th Officers’ Meeting The UMW Picnic will be held on The UMW officers will meet on GROUPS June 4th at 6:00 pm at 720 Linden May 7th at the church at 6:00 pm. St. [Jo Baker's Community Room] United with Rebekah Circle will serve as host- ess and will provide plates, cups, Rachel Purpose silverware, and beverages. Each Rachel circle will meet at the home circle will provide chicken, salad, of Deb Curran on May 21st at 7:00 and dessert for their members. All pm. Questions? Contact Barb circle members are welcomed. Jorgenson, 651-414-0054. They can bring a small dish to add to the buffet table. Rebekah Laurie McFaul will be the Rebekah Circle will meet on May entertainment starting at 7:00 pm. 16th at 11:00 am at church. We For Laurie, making music was encourage visitors! Questions? central to family life in Call Beda Lewis at 651-554-3600. Illinois. She started piano at 4 and violin at 10 and went on to study Ruth music at the University of Ruth Circle will meet May 21st, Minnesota, continuing her violin 12:30 pm, at church. Questions? performance education and Contact Nancy Kane, 651-457- focusing on a degree in 8376. Musicology. She teaches Music Together family classes, as the owner of Mindful Music and Art: MEN’S GROUP (www.MindfulMusicTogether.com) Due to weather, the Men’s Group which provides opportunities for cancelled the April meeting and children to learn music in a have scheduled the next musically rich environment dinner meeting for May 20th at 6:30 alongside their grownups. Laurie pm at church. They will discuss also continues to play as a freelance fund raising for mission projects. c Faul violinist in the Twin Cities area and After the church service on May M rie beyond as well as teaching private 20th, Men's Group representatives Lau violin to students of all ages at will meet with Pastor Amy Jo to Cadenza Music in St. Paul and out discuss these projects. Any of her home. questions please contact Dick Robinson at 651-207-8643 or email him at dickrobinson2@msn.com. 651-452-5683 | info@stpaulsmn.org | www.stpaulsmn.org Page 6
Epistle May 2018 MISSION TRIP MENDAKOTA PARK REACHING SUMMER 2018 CELEBRATION This summer St. Paul's UMC is SATURDAY, JUNE 2nd OUT returning to Spirit Lake Ministry Join us as we reach out to connect Center to work with our native with people in the community at Living our faith brothers and sisters in North the annual Mendakota Parks Dakota. This will be an Celebration on June 2nd. This free and connecting intergenerational mission trip and festive celebration taking both adults, youth in our with our confirmation and 5th graders going includes petting zoo, fitness demonstrations, pony rides, fire into confirmation next year. This neighbors trip will offer many different truck rides, climbing wall, tennis party, soccer kick, inflatables, face opportunities to serve. The dates of painting, hockey shoot, prizes and the mission trip are June 10th-15th much more! and costs about $400. It is fun and within a day's drive from the Twin Cities. You’re invited! Wanna go MINNESOTA FOOD with us "in spirit" because your SHARE CAMPAIGN flesh can't attend this year? Become a prayer partner. Contact REPORT Chris Archer, The Director of Well done St. Paul’s UMC!! Mission at elpizosfire@gmail.com Together you donated over $1,050 or 651-452-5683. in cash contributions plus 770 pounds in food and other donations. WOW!! Did you know your cash donation goes to purchase milk most often? Every dollar is spent wisely to serve those in need. You are making a big difference in our community. Since we met our goals, Chris Archer, Director of Family Ministry and Mission, will color his hair different colors for four weeks! FOOD SHELF NEEDS - hygiene products - canned meats (Spam, etc) Pastor Amy Jo and - Hamburger Helper representatives - canned fruit from Neighbors 651-452-5683 | info@stpaulsmn.org | www.stpaulsmn.org Page 7
Epistle May 2018 ADULT EDUCATION, BERTLESEN LIBRARY SUNDAYS, 9:30 am Short Stories by Jesus In May we will discuss Jesus' parables, looking back in time to understand how their original Jewish audience understood them. Through a DVD and discussion we hope to gain new Thank you so much for hosting a understanding of these beautiful shower for Baby Wilson. exceptional short stories. It was wonderful to see so many of you there; we very much appreciate the outpouring of support. We are ADULT EDUCATION very lucky to be able to welcome WEDNESDAY BOOK our baby girl into this loving church family. Blessings, GROUP Luke & Melissa (Wilson) Beginning on Wednesday May 2nd, we will discuss Atul Gawande's book, Being Mortal. Dr. Gawande shows us how the ultimate goal is not just a good death but a good life! Noon -1:00 pm. Bring a sandwich, bring a friend. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR MEMORIAL GARDEN Volunteers are needed to commit to weeding our beautiful Memorial Garden for a two-week block of time this summer. Hopefully we will have enough volunteers to cover the entire growing season. Please contact the office, 651-452-5683, or mark your blue card if you are interested. 651-452-5683 | info@stpaulsmn.org | www.stpaulsmn.org Page 8
Epistle May 2018 Please pray for the following: Joys: Birth of Tom and Beda Lewis’ great-grandson, Mekhi Wesley, on April 15th Juanita Morgan expecting twins September 5th Birth of John and Nancy Grinager’s granddaughter, Eden Jane, March 17th Deaths: Abe, young grandson of friends of Jan Marshall, Shari and Eric, and his parents, Chelsea and Jeff Dorothy Grinager, John Grinager’s mother, April 10th Health Concerns: Loye Eckman having hip surgery April 30th Bakers’ friend, Adam, for healing from an infection after leg amputation All homebound with health problems Deb Curran’s stepdaughter, Carmen, struggling with Lyme disease Carol Rix for healing and positive outcomes for recovery from additional knee surgery Sam Young for healing from eye surgery Roxy Crane for her strength to continue Jo Reck’s friend, Sherry, dealing with cancers Barb Jorgenson’s brother’s sister-in-law, Jane, needs a liver transplant. For friends dealing with mental health issues Ben Pressnall as he undergoes radiation treatments for prostate cancer Barb Helmken’s friend, Phil, diagnosed with a cancer that can lead to leukemia, and Mary, as she recovers from heart valve surgery and breast cancer Cheryl Anderson’s Tai Chi instructor, Keith, recovering from stroke and paralyzed Diane Edgell’s sister and Willis’ sister-in-law, Darlene, diagnosed with pancreatic cancer Willis and Diane Edgell’s niece, Tracy, with cancer John Moffitt, Jerry’s twin, dealing with pain after hip surgery last winter Yeen Chong’s co-worker, Clara, with leukemia Jo Daugherty and Della Relation for health concerns and continued healing Additional: Americans facing deportation to Liberia Those in war torn Syria Guidance and strength to make healthier choices Please call the office with joys and concerns. 651-452-5683 | info@stpaulsmn.org | www.stpaulsmn.org Page 9
Epistle May 2018 SUNDAY SCHEDULE Cynthia Peterfeso Education Hour for All 9:30 am no longer has a land line. Worship: 10:30 am 2nd SUNDAYS SCHEDULE Education Hour for All: 9:30 am 2018 YEAR OF MUSIC CONCERT 3 Kidz 2gether Worship: 10:30 am SATURDAY, JUNE 23, 2018; 7:00 Pm Brunch: 11:30 am KRAIG WINDSCHITL, ORGAN Communion will be offered the 1st and 2nd Sundays of every month. Concert 3 of the Year of Music concert series will be an organ OFFICE HOURS: concert by Kraig Windschitl. Monday - Friday: 8:00 am - noon Kraig is a Minnesota musician, who also serves as an artist in CHRIS’ OFFICE HOURS: residence for the Basilica of the Monday - Thursday, 8:00 am - Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem. 5:00 pm His virtuosic skill will be a delight to us all! Don’t forget CHURCH COUNCIL CHAIR: to invite your friends! Tickets Leslie Watkins are free, but please reserve seat- ST. PAUL’S STAFF: ing in advance by calling the church office (651) 452-5683. Pastor: Rev. Amy Jo Bur, pastor@stpaulsmn.org The Year of Music concert series is a gift from memorial donations to Director of Family and Mission Saint Paul’s United Methodist Church. Ministries, Chris Archer, elpizosfire@gmail.com Director of Music Ministry, The office will be closed Lane Skoglund-Anderson, laneskoglundanderson@gmail.com May 28, 2018 in observation of Memorial Day. Administrative Assistant: Diane Pelinka, info@stpaulsmn.org Pastor Amy Jo will be on vacation May 3rd—8th. In case of pastoral emergency, call Rev. Greg Renstrom, 612-886-2863. 651-452-5683 info@stpaulsmn.org | www.stpaulsmn.org Page 10
Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 1 2 3 4 5 6:00 pm Yoga 12:00 pm Book Group 8:30 am Fit Moms 4 Life 6:00 pm Handbell Choir 7:00 pm Chancel Choir 6:30 pm Al-Anon 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 9:30 am Education Hour 10:00 am Music 6:00 pm Yoga 12:00 pm Book Group 10:00 am Quilters 8:30 am Fit 2gther Moms 4 Life 10:30 am Worship w/ 6:00 pm Confirmation Communion 6:00 pm UMW 6:00 pm Handbell Choir Officer Mtg Confirmation 11:30 am Vacation 7:00 pm Chancel Choir Retreat, Bible School Mtg Koronis 6:30 pm Al-Anon 4:30 pm Music 2gether 13 Mother’s Day 14 15 1611:00 am Rebekah 17 18 19 9:30 am Education Hour 10:00 am Music 6:00 pm Yoga Circle, church Newsletter 8:30 am Fit 2gther Deadline Moms 4 Life 10:30 am Kidz 2gether 12:00 pm Book Group Worship w/Communion 5:00 pm Church PIE Night, 2:00 pm Memorial Mtg Youth to Council Mtg 11:30 am 2nd Sunday Garlough Walker 6:00 pm Handbell Choir Brunch Sculpture 4:30 pm Music 2gether 7:00 pm Chancel Choir Gardens 6:30 pm Al-Anon 20 Confirmation, 21 22 23 24 25 26 Teacher Appreciation 10:00 am Music 12:00 pm Book Group 8:30 am Fit 6:00 pm Yoga & Pentecost 2gther Moms 4 Life 6:00 pm Handbell Choir 9:30 am Education Hour 12:30 pm Ruth 7:00 pm Chancel Choir 10:30 am Worship Circle, church 6:30 pm Al-Anon 11:30 am Mission Trip 6:00 pm Vacation Mtg Bible School Mtg 4:30 pm Music 2gether 7:00 pm Rachel Circle, Deb Curran 6:30 pm Men’s Group, church 6:45 pm 4H 27 28 Office closed 29 30 Annual Conference, 31 June 1 June 2 9:30 am Adult Ed but St. Cloud Mendakota Park no Sunday School. 12:00 pm Book Group Celebration Bible Bucks Store open 6:00 pm Handbell Choir 10:30 am Worship 7:00 pm Chancel Choir 11:30 am Picnic 6:30 pm Al-Anon Italicized events are conducted by outside groups renting space at the church. 651-452-5683 info@stpaulsmn.org | www.stpaulsmn.org Page 11
St. Paul’s United Methodist Church NON PROFIT ORG. 700 Wesley Lane US POSTAGE PAID Mendota Heights MN 55118 TWIN CITIES MN Phone: 651-452-5683 PERMIT #2316 Email: info@stpaulsmn.org Address Service Requested Open Hearts, Open Minds, Open Doors The People of the United Methodist Church® MAY 20, 2018
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