THE MESSENGER - First Lutheran Kearney
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DECEMBER 2020
THE MESSENGER
The monthly newsletter of First Lutheran Church, a congregation of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America
Dear Members of the Body of Christ at First Lutheran,
During our last Mutual Ministry Team meeting, we discussed
refreshing the congregation’s memory on what this team does. Retired
Bishop Robert Driesen, from a synod in Pennsylvania, wrote a helpful
handbook on Mutual Ministry. In it he lists some ways a Mutual
Ministry team can be helpful:
A Message
1. Evaluate how effectively the goals of the congregation are
being met for both ministry within the congregation and the from the
world. Make recommendations to council or other teams. Co-Lead
2. Dialogue about perceptions and concerns within the Pastors
congregation.
3. Address conflicts among members that may affect the
congregation’s ministry, as well as between members of the
congregation and the pastors.
4. Serve as a source of support for the pastors and other
congregational leaders in times of personal or professional
stress.
5. Support the pastors’ need for spiritual self-care.
6. Be alert to the early warning signs within a congregation of
misunderstanding that may eventually lead to difficulty.
Quite often former students from the seminary would come
back to us after a few months in the parish and say, “Seminary never
prepared me for_______.” For certain, there was no seminary class on
pastoring during a pandemic. We are very restricted in most of the
things we take for granted we can do as pastors. This leads to a lot of
frustration. This COVID-19 pandemic has led to unprecedented times
in our world, our community, and our congregation. Leaders during
this time, such as pastors and council members, are called upon to
make decisions that are difficult and not always received well by
everyone. However, the safety and health of the whole community is
always at the top of mind when making these decisions.
We encourage you to be in dialogue with the Mutual Ministry
Team about your concerns as we travel this uncertain path. On page 5
of this Messenger you can find a list of the members of both Mutual
Ministry teams.
God’s Peace,
Pastor Michelle
1
COVID-19 UPDATE
As the COVID-19 virus continues to spread widely through our community, the church
leadership team has met and made some decisions that will impact worship and activities within
the church facility.
Worship services went remote-only for the last two Sundays in November. Each of those Sundays
was broadcast on the radio, streamed online at firstlutherankearney.org and on our Facebook
page. The council will meet again on November 30th to discuss December worship and
activities. We will not be making any decisions regarding December until then.
The church staff will primarily be working from home or have rotating hours in the office. The
office will be open with reduced hours from 8:00 am to Noon, Monday through Friday
for drop-offs or in-person business (if absolutely necessary).
These decisions have been made prayerfully in the best interest of the congregation and
community. Not only has there been a rapid increase of positive cases in the community, we’ve
been informed of a number of positive cases within our own congregation. Additionally, local
health officials and medical professionals have been advising fast and drastic changes in order to
control the spread.
Thank you for your understanding during these challenging times. We continue to pray for your
health, safety, and wellbeing. Keep an eye on the church website, email, and social media for
future developments.
Message from the Co-Lead Pastor...……1
COVID-19 Update……………….....2
Kearney Community………………..3
Team Announcements………….......5
Office Updates………………….……….7
Council Update………………………….8
http://www.elca.org http://www.nebraskasynod.org
Worship Themes……………….......9 800-638-3522 402-896-5311
Pray……………………………....10
Women of the ELCA………….…....12 http://www.lwr.org
800-597-5972 http://www.nelcm.com/
Wednesday Night News…….…......13 (308) 234-1828
Associate Pastor and FLY…..……..14
FLY Fundraiser………….….…….15
Preschool……………….………..18 http://www.nlom.org
402-944-2544
Calendar Highlights……….……....19
2
KEARNEY COMMUNITY NEWS
The CASA PROGRAM…
The Casa Program provides a free service to abused and neglected children who are wards of
the state removed from their home by the courts in Kearney and Buffalo Counties. CASA
volunteer advocates are empowered directly by the courts and Nebraska Court Appointed
Special Advocate Act (Nebraska Revised Statutes §43-3701 et. seq.). These volunteer advocates
offer judges the critical information needed to ensure that each child’s rights and needs are
being attended to while under the jurisdiction of the court. Volunteers stay with children until
they are placed in loving and permanent homes and make recommendations to the court for
services the child(ren) need because of the crime(s) committed against them. For many abuse
children, a CASA volunteer is the only constant adult presence in their lives.
According to Denise Bryan, a CASA Volunteer: “Through the years I continued to see children
that wouldn’t tell and suffered. These children were overlooked partly because the signs they
displayed weren’t recognized as warning signs. My heart and soul have been burdened since I
can remember for these children. Some of them have grown to be adults and still suffer from
their past. I’ve been able to help at times and at other times said prayers from a distance.
Recently at the beginning of this year, a colleague and I discussed their involvement with
CASA and what was required. After that discussion, I felt in my heart it was time to get
involved. This is an opportunity to love these children, to be someone they can trust, to be their
friend, and to be their voice to the court. I am honored and grateful to be able to be a part of
the CASA program – to make a difference in the life of a child.”
For more information or to volunteer for CASA please call (308) 865-5675 or email
casa@mnca.net
Other Ways YOU Can Be the Church by Volunteering to Help Our Neighbors
• CarePortal
Watch for CarePortal emails from Brad Stolcpart through First Lutheran. If you are
able to help out with the need, please contact him. Prayer is always welcome for families
in crisis.
• Meals on Wheels
This organization is committed to support individuals who need nourished,
healthy meals in their own homes. Their website is
http://www.kearneyhousingagency.com/meals-on- wheels/ and their phone number
is 308-234-1851.
• Hot Meals and the Jubilee Center
Hot Meals USA delivers a hot noon meal prepared at the Kearney Jubilee Center at
no charge during the COVID-19 crisis. The Jubilee Center offers a Food Pantry to
assist those in need of food. The phone number for both Hot Meals and the Jubilee
Center is 308-234-3880.
3
KEARNEY COMMUNITY NEWS - THANKSGIVING
FREE THANKSGIVING MEAL
For 35 years the Kearney Area Concerned Citizens served a Thanksgiving
meal. Due to COVID-19, they were unable to serve this year. Hot Meals USA
stepped in to make sure out community gets a Free Thanksgiving Meal.
Thursday, November 26, 2020 from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm
Drive Thru: Mom and Dad’s BBQ – 222 W 42nd Street
Delivery: Request meal delivery at (308) 234-3880
We are feeding health care workers, law enforcement, fire departments,
Buffalo County Corrections, long-term care workers, and any person or family
in need of a free Thanksgiving meal.
Would you like to volunteer?
https://www.signupgenius.com/go/60b084daeaa29a0ff2-thanksgiving
How can I help? Donate online at https://givebutter.com/thanksgivingmeal
Mail Check: PO BOX 1466, Kearney NE 68848
Make Check payable to Community Partners memo: Thanksgiving
We need $20,000 to feed 3,000+ community members.
4
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENTS
From Mission Outreach…
Advent is upon us when we are reminded of Christ’s return for his kingdom.
Once again, this season, please consider buying a good gift of bees, chickens, pigs
or choose something from the Good Gifts catalog. Ornaments will be available in
the Narthex to choose from the Christmas trees. Banks are available for the
youth. Good gifts benefit people across the world by providing them with a
resource to better their life by providing them with food, clothing, education,
clean water, cooking stoves and more. In many cases good gifts can provide them
with a regular income source through milk sales, piglets, chicks, lambs, goat
kids, honey, wool etc.
While we in the United States are having a difficult time coping with the
pandemic, those in third world counties are especially challenged. They lack
basic health needs, clean water, and food; let alone the supplies necessary to
prevent the spread of Covid-19 and are unable to distance in many cases. Please
share as much as your finances allow. See if you can help by providing resources
to improve their lives.
Please submit good gifts donations to the church office by Dec. 31st, 2020.
I John 3:17; But whoso hath this world’s good, and seeth his brother have need,
and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God
in him?
From Mutual Ministry…
Team for Pastor Rick and Pastor Michelle:
Angela Wright (chair), Bill Schmidt, Don Niemann, Lil Larson, Derek
Schweitzer, Grant Lewis
Team for Pastor Elisabeth:
Dave Behle, Alexis Page, Maleah Wright, Renae Zimmer, Julie Schmidt
(Bethany, Minden), Maddy Koebernick (Campus Lutheran)
5
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENTS
From Lutheran World Relief 2020…
Wow! Thank you, First Lutheran Church, for making LWR Packing Day a
success. Even during the Covid-19 outbreak, First Lutheran Church came
together for a wonderful cause. This year we donated, packed, and shipped:
135 School Kits
44 Baby Care Kits
30 Personal Care Kits
53 Quilts
25 Masks
Today and every day, Lutheran World Relief Quilts, Baby Care Kits, School
Kits and Personal Care Kits are a reminder to families that even in the
midst of a crisis, they are not alone.
A big heartfelt THANK YOU to everyone who made this possible.
God Bless!
6
OFFICE UPDATES
OCTOBER FINANCE REPORT
Ministry Budget: OCT 2020 YTD ’20-21’ YTD '19-'20
Budget Supporting Revenue $ 52,535 $ 211,639 $ 243,666
Payroll Protection Funds $ 28,108
Budget Related Expenditures $ (53,076) $ (283,423) $ (276,068)
Church Office Total 2020-2021 Ministry Budget: $798,474.97
office@firstlutherankearney.org
Pastor Rick Carlson Facilities Budget: OCT. 2020 YTD '20-'21 YTD '19-'20
Co-Lead Pastor Revenue $ 11,342 $ 34,634 $ 34,160
rcarlson@firstlutherankearney.org Expenditures $ (2,608) $ (11,816) $ (15,110)
Pastor Michelle Carlson Total 2020-2021 Facilities Budget: $30,000
Co-Lead Pastor
mcarlson@firstlutherankearney.org
YEAR-END CONTRIBUTIONS
Pastor Elisabeth Himmelman
Assoc. Pastor for Youth & Young Adults As the end of 2020 approaches, please make note of
ehimmelman@firstlutherankearney.org
our policy regarding year-end contributions. In order
Kandy Bacon to be recorded on your contribution statement for the
Administrative Assistant year 2020, contributions MUST be received in the
kbacon@firstlutherankearney.org church office no later than 12:00 NOON on
Thursday, December 31st. If mailed, contributions
Marti Brockmeier must be clearly marked “Attn. Marti Brockmeier”
Bookkeeper and post-marked on or before December 31st.
martibrockmeier@firstlutherankearney.org
Natalie Radcliffe
Worship Music Coordinator Giving Options
natalieradcliffe@firstlutherankearney.org
In addition to traditional giving options for your convenience First Lutheran
Adam Eilers
offers online giving!
Maintenance Coordinator
aeilers@firstlutherankearney.org GIVE PLUS: which allows people to make financial contributions to the church
Judy O’Donnell electronically in the following ways:
Preschool Director
1. Online (just go to the First Lutheran website under the “Resources” tab),
judyodonnell@firstlutherankearney.org
2. Mobile App (download the Give Plus app on the iPhone or Android,
create a profile and search for “First Lutheran”), or
3. Text (just text the donation amount to 308-470-5058 and you will be
prompted with further instructions).
If you have any questions or would like assistance in using any of the above
electronic giving options or would like to receive offering envelopes, please
contact Marti in the church office.
Thank you so much for your faithful generosity to First Lutheran Church’s
ministry!
7
COUNCIL UPDATE
Season’s Greetings to all!
This year has been particularly hard, some might even say it has been
a disaster. Disasters don’t generally come without warning, but
COVID hit without much time to prepare. However, like with most
disasters, we have seen the community pull together and people make CONGREGATION
sacrifices for each other over the past 8 months. Even though we COUNCIL
don’t know what to expect in the coming days, we know Jesus is with Kim Troudt
us to bring hope and provide comfort. President
God sent us his son, Jesus, to forgive our sins and to offer salvation to Dave Zimmer
the world. God gave us the greatest gift, and in return God wants Vice President
generosity, faith, goodwill, peace, and praise. All things we can do to
stay focused and create positivity. Here at First Lutheran Church, the Lee Fritson
Mission Outreach team collected money to adopt 20 families for the Treasurer
holidays. The Endowment Committee has granted requests for the
purchase of masks for the chancel choir and Heavenly Treble Makers, Judy Henning
funds for disaster relief through Lutheran Disaster Services were sent Secretary
to places in Iowa that endured flooding and places in the west ravaged
by wildfires, and for items to complete kits for Lutheran World Relief. Rachel Leach
Through the Stewardship campaign, pledge cards received show an Miranda
increase in weekly giving for 2021. Thanks to the Witness and Obermeier
Members team, approximately 20 new members have chosen First
Lutheran Church as their new church home. First Lutheran Youth Kelly
(FLY) continues to gain momentum with 15-22 youth meeting regularly Russman
for scripture, prayer, play, and service. As you can see, mission
Michael
continues through the uncertain times of COVID.
Rafferty
Church is who we are not just a place we go. We might be forced into
Mark Kottmeyer
new ways of thinking and acting, but we must allow ourselves to be
guided and remember Christ has authority overall.
“It is proven COVID is contagious, but so is kindness, patience, love, Have questions?
enthusiasm, and a positive attitude. Don’t wait to catch it from others.
Be a carrier.” - Unknown Contact information for
our Congregational
Merry Christmas, Council
First Lutheran Church Council Representatives is
available in the narthex
or the church office.
8
WORSHIP THEMES
DECEMBER 6 DECEMBER 27
SECOND SUNDAY OF ADVENT FIRST SUNDAY OF CHRISTMAS
ISAIAH 40:1-11; PSALM 85;1-2, 8-13, ISAIAH 61:10-62:3; PSALM 148,
2 PETER 3-15A, MARK 1:1-8 GALATIANS 4:4-7, LUKE 2:22-40
John calls people to repent, to clear the decks, The palmist calls on the natural world,
to completely reorder their lives so that celestial bodies, fire and earth, creatures, and
nothing gets in the way of the Lord’s coming. all humanity to praise God. The voices of
The reading from Isaiah gives the context for Simeon and 84-year-old Anna join the chorus
this radical call: the assurance of forgiveness today, recognizing what God is doing in Jesus.
that encourages us to repent; the promise that Simeon’s song is often sung after communion,
the coming one will be gentle with the little for we have seen God’s salvation in the
ones. Isaiah calls us all to be heralds with assembled community and have held Jesus in
John, to lift up our voices fearlessly and say, our hands in the bread. Then, like the prophet
“See, your God is coming!” We say it to one Anna, we tell of Jesus to all who look for the
another in worship, in order to say it with our healing of the world.
lives in a world in need of justice and peace.
DECEMBER 13
THIRD SUNDAY OF ADVENT
ISIAH 61:1-4, 8-11; PSALM 126; LUKE 1-46B-
55; 1 THESSALONIANS 5:16-24; JOHN 1:6-8,
19-28.
“Rejoice always” begins the reading from 1
Thessalonians, Isaiah and the psalmist make
clear that God is turning our mourning into
laughter and shouts of joy. “All God’s children
got a robe,” go the words of a spiritual. It is
not so much a stately, formal, pressed outfit as
it is a set of party clothes, clothes we are happy
to wear. We receive that robe in baptism, and
in worship we gather for a foretaste of God’s
party.
DECEMBER 20
FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT “LIKE” us on Facebook:
2 SAMUEL 7:1-11, 16, LUKE 1-46B-55, First Lutheran Church –
PSALM 89:1-4, 19-26, ROMANS 16:25-27, Kearney
LUKE 1:26-38.
Sign up for weekly E-mail
God keeps the promise made to David to give updates: Send request to:
him an everlasting throne. The angel tells office@firstlutherankearney.org
Mary that God will give David’s throne to her
LIVE Radio Broadcast:
son Jesus. She is perplexed by Gabriel’s
Sundays 8:45 AM – KXPN 1460
greeting and by the news of her coming AM
pregnancy, but she is able still to say, “Count
me in.” We who know that Jesus is called king LIVE Webstream Broadcast:
Sundays 8:45 AM & 11:00 AM
only as he is executed still find it a mystery
www.firstlutherankearney.org
hard to fathom, but with Mary today we hear
the news of what God is up to and say, “Count
us in.”
9
PRAY
PRAYER WARRIORS
This is an email prayer group. It is not a prayer chain, so you do not need to send this on
to anyone. When you sign up, you will periodically be sent a prayer via email. After you
receive the prayer all you need to do is read/pray the prayer at your convenience. It is that
simple. We hope you enjoy this convenient way to use the power of prayer.
To become a “Prayer Warrior” simply email your name and email address to Theress
Bricker at tmbricker4@gmail.com and ask that you be added to the “Prayer Warrior” group.
If you have any questions or have a prayer request please contact: Sister Ruth Ellen at
(308) 455-1432, Margene Dahlstedt (308) 627-6337 or Theress Bricker at (308) 233-2469.
JOIN A PRAYER CHAIN
Help pray for brothers and sisters in Christ or share requests for
prayer. Paul reminds us “Do not be anxious about anything, but
in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present
your requests to God”. (Phil 4:6).
Telephone prayer chain members are led by Jeanette
Andersen (308- 237-3634), Marlene Kotrc (308-234-3293).
If you would like to participate in email prayer requests,
pass your request along to the church office or Theress Bricker
(tmbricker4@gmail.com).
Requests will be emailed to you for your prayer time.
Prayer Shawl Ministry
Prayer Shawl Ministry meets every Wednesday in the coffee
area from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. during the school year. Please join
us for knitting, crocheting, conversation, and prayer. If you
have any questions, or if you know of someone who might be
able to use a Prayer Shawl as a tangible reminder of God’s love
and grace during hard times and good times, please call
Theress Bricker (308) 233-2469. Will not meet in December.
Prayers of peace and comfort for…
The friends and family of Rev. W. Clayton
Nielsen
The friends and family of Melva Goldenstein
The friends and family of Evy Kuecker on the death of
her brother, Duane Engelsgaard and sister, Mildred
Schill.
The friends and family of Bernie Johnson on the death of
her husband, Lynn Johnson.
10WITHIN OUR BELOVED COMMUNITY HERE AT FIRST
First Lutheran Staff & Family,
Jerry and I want to thank you
all for everything you have done
Congratulations to our November
for us since August 31st, from
Volunteers of the Month:
starting the meal train, to
Mission Outreach!
bringing meals, helping us move,
and ALL of the prayers. We The Volunteers of the Month for December are
could never say thank you the Mission Outreach Team.
enough and are so blessed to This team provides opportunities for outreach by
have you all in our lives. encouraging congregational members to reach
out beyond themselves to spread God’s love
Jerry & Carrie Stithem locally and globally. By planning and
coordinating service projects in Kearney and
throughout all corners of the world, the team
helps the congregation fulfill Jesus’ command to
love, serve, and care for our brothers and sisters
everywhere.
The Mission Outreach Team works behind the
scenes on many projects that we have at First
Lutheran Church including: God’s Work Our
Hands; projects for Lutheran Disaster Relief;
support for our Lutheran Missionaries in
Tanzania/Argentina; sponsoring ELCA Good
Gifts program during Advent; help promote our
Dear First Lutheran Church,
local Habitat for Humanity; support for the high
school in Tanzania; oversees the budget which
Thank you all so much for your
supports locally among other agencies: Jubilee
donation of $500 to the SAFE Center Center, Safe Center, and Salvation Army;
in July of 2020. Your contribution tackles issues and projects as they arise and
will help provide services and support brings in speakers on important topics which are
to those affected by sexual and beyond our church’s walls; oversees special
domestic violence. We greatly summer offering and Lenten offering; and the
Mission Outreach Facebook Page.
appreciate your continued support.
Members are the Mission Outreach team are
Sincerely, Stacy Bean, Christie Behle, Calli Cardenas,
SAFE Center Staff, Volunteers and Pastor Rick Carlson, Vicki Conn, Christine
Fisher, Deb Schauer, Jerry Stuhr, Sister Ruth
Board of Directors.
Ellen Rebelein and Judy Henning.
11WOMEN of the ELCA
Merry Christmas! The birth of Baby Jesus always reminds us of the Nativity and the
beauty of God’s gift. The Christmas season brings childhood thoughts of participating
in church services and singing the wonderful hymns like Silent Night, Joy to the World,
Away in the Manger, Oh Holy Night, so many more. Even though the holidays are
rushed and stressful, remember the importance of God’s gift to us. Take a moment to Ladies who are interested in
reflect on your favorite Christmas moments and share them with family and friends. joining a monthly Bible study are
invited to attend a women’s circle.
The Women of the Evangelical Lutheran Church Association (W.E.L.C.A.) First Circles can be joined at any time
Lutheran Church Board met via Zoom on November 2, 2020 due to high risk of COVID. during the year.
The W.E.L.C.A. Board Zoom was joined by Pastor Rick to install officers for 2020-2021
The Board decided with Pastor Rick the procedure for Thanks Offerings (normally Co-Chairs:
brought forward at church services), was to have a Thanks Offering Box at the church Lil Larson (308)-224-6207
entrances for those attending services or dropping off donations. Thanks for giving. Judy Workman (308)-237-2781
That day was also the scheduled Lutheran World Relief Mission packing day to ship Secretary:
Bev Vacha (308)-468-6239
Supplies donated by members of WELCA and First Lutheran church members.
Theress Bricker did an excellent job of organizing and labeling which made packing Treasurer:
remaining items easier. The nine volunteers had the packing completed before noon. Jo Smallcomb (308)-234-3053
Special Thanks to Brown Transfer for volunteering to ship. Due to COVID the church
members transported the boxes to Brown Transfer. Thanks to those who helped load
and transport boxes. A Special Thanks to Theress Bricker and Val Ericson for their
extra efforts.
The excellent work done by volunteers making quilts (at church and home) throughout
the year was Coordinated by Betty Young and Sandy Pratt. The volunteers gave of their
time and talents to make the LWR Quilt mission a success. The Baby Care Kits
organized by Alicia Tracy, Personal Care and School Kits will be especially valued
this year with the loss of supplies overseas congregation donations helped. You can
find the total items on page 6.
ABIGAIL CIRCLE (SEPT.–MAY)
9:00 am—3rd Monday
Upcoming Events
and Evy Kuecker
Upcoming Events 2020-2021: WELCA December Christmas Coffee has been cancelled
(308-237-5651)
January 4, 2021, WELCA Board meeting TBD – Zoom or Fellowship Hall at 7:00 p.m.
DEBORAH CIRCLE
NO FALL NEBRASKA Synodical Women’s Organization activities from the 7:00 pm –3rd Monday
NEBRASKA Synodical Women’s Organization ALL S.W.O. ACTIVITIES TO END Co-Chairs: Deb Schauer (308-233-
OF YEAR 2020 HAVE BEEN CANCELLED. 2669) and Ellen Epp (308-234-
5696)
April 30 & May 1 & 2, 2021(Note-Next Year!) The next Saved to Serve will be at GLORIA CIRCLE
Camp Carol Joy Holling. Nebraska S.W.O. will collect your Mosaic 12:00pm—3rd Thursday
Activity/Sensory/Fidget Mat Special Project as part of the program. The event emphasis Chair: Karen Foster (308-234-2157)
is Mosaic, and the lodging will be at the Camp Carol Joy Holling.
NAOMI CIRCLE
7:30pm—4th Thursday (3rd Thurs. in
Save To Serve Lynch, NE -Niobrara Valley House of Renewal was POSTPONED to
Nov.) Chair: Judy Niemann
AUGUST 6-8, 2021.
(308)-234-4332
12WEDNESDAY NIGHT NEWS FOR DECEMBER
The Big Important Practice Dates for all Kids & Recording Dates!
• Wed., Dec. 2nd – 7 - 7:45pm (All PreK – K)Narthex
After Advent Service 7 - 7:45(All 1st – 2nd) Coffee Area
7 – 7:45(All 3rd – 5th) Sanctuary
• Sun., Dec. 6th – 3 - 4pm (All PreK – K) Narthex
3 - 4pm (All 1st -2nd) Coffee Area
3 – 4pm(All 3 - 5th) Sanctuary
2 – 3pm (Speaking Cast only) Sanctuary-Bring a water bottle
• Wed. Dec. 9th – 7-8pm–(Kids with LIVE Speaking parts Only)
• Sun., Dec. 13th - Recording times: Wear Pretty & Handsome special
clothes! No sweatpants or clothes that have holes.
• 3 - 3:25 (All PreK – K) singing in Sanctuary
• 3:30 – 3:55 (All 1St- 2nd) singing in Sanctuary
• 4 – 4:25 (All 3rd – 5th) Singing in Sanctuary
• 4:30 – 5 (3rd – 5th) (Recorded only speaking parts only) In
Sanctuary
• Wed., Dec. 16th – 7- 8pm – (Kids with LIVE Speaking parts Only)
After Advent Service – Sanctuary
We ask that masks be worn, and hand sanitizer be used.
Thank you for your cooperation.
NO Sunday School classes, FROG or Confirmation in the month
of December! See you in January!
13A MESSAGE FROM THE PASTOR FOR YOUTH AND
YOUNG ADULTS
Dear First Lutheran,
I write to you from the guest bedroom of my home, where I’m isolating from
my family due to my positive diagnosis of Covid-19. I am piled up in
blankets, am surrounded by charging cables, and have plentiful Aleve at the
bedside. I feel miserable. I also know what a privilege it is to be able to
isolate because I have my family, food and shelter, access to healthcare, and
so many gracious offers from our congregation to care for us (thank you!).
I am beginning each morning by listening to the “Keep Going On Song” by
the Bengsons as a form of prayer (search it on YouTube if you haven’t heard
it already!). And, while my symptoms are not life-threatening, I am finding
myself feeling stuck in the darkness of fear, anger, and grief that this virus
has brought into my family’s life. I don’t like it in this darkness at all.
I’ve heard, as you likely have, that these coming weeks will be “the darkest
weeks of the pandemic.” I read a Facebook post of a UNMC doctor who said
that soon, no one in the entire state of Nebraska will be untouched by Covid
– either knowing someone with it or having it themselves. It is hitting me that
If you want to contact as we plunge into this nadir, we will once again celebrate that “a light shines
Pastor Elisabeth: in the darkness and the darkness has not overcome it” (John 1:5).
(308) 237-5544 (office) Even in the darkness that has been so present in 2020, God will continue to
show up with the light of Jesus Christ to transform and redeem us. This
ehimmelman@firstlutheran promise is true because of Emmaunel, God with us. God has been, is, and
kearney.org will be with us. As we prepare our hearts for the birth of our Savior in ways
that are both the same as every other year and entirely different, may the
cracks of light that cannot overcome the darkness fills your souls.
Be well and stay safe. There is no darkness the light of Jesus cannot
overcome.
In peace,
Pastor Elisabeth
FLY Updates
FLY Meets Wednesdays @ 7pm in December
If it is safe to meet in person, we will. Otherwise, stay tuned for Zoom
options for check-in, games, and staying connected while apart.
If we are meeting in person, masks are required, and no food is allowed to be
eaten in the building.
FLY will meet again on Sundays @ 9:55am beginning January 10.
14FLY FUNDRAISER EVENT
FLY Annual Silent Auction (online) & Agape Meal (via Zoom)
Election Day Purple Zone: Tuesday, November 3, 2020
2020… what a year! First Lutheran Youth invite you to set aside some time to reflect, spread joy, and anticipate the
birth of Christ with our annual Christmas-time fundraiser with a 2020 twist! Thank you for supporting FLY! There
are two components to this event:
Cast your vote in the 2020 election and then…
Leave your red or blue at the door, and enter the Purple Zone at Campus Lutheran: a
Part 1: Silent Auction – ONLINE – through December 20, 2020
non-partisan space to slow down, pray, and be fed.
Items will be on display in the building, but with limited open hours, the auction will primarily be online. For
assistance or to schedule
Individually wrappeda to-go
time tosnacks
bid inwill
person, please contact
be available all hoursKandy in the
to fortify church
your day.office:
#308-237-5544 or office@firstlutherankearney.org.
8:30-8:45am Election Day Morning Prayer and Holy Communion on front lawn
Use the following
By the firesteps to createif your
(in sanctuary account
inclement and begin bidding online!
weather)
1.9am-12pm
Go to https://www.32auctions.com/flykearney
Sanctuary and Patio Open for quiet space:
2. Click “login” on the top right
Distanced corner
prayer of page
stations (on tealtocolored
available engage banner, next
individual, to “help”).reflective
experiential,
encounters
3. Click “Create an account withonyour
now” faith.right of screen:
bottom
12-12:30pm Election Day Midday Prayer on front lawn by the fire
(in sanctuary if inclement weather)
12:30-1:00pm BE FED! Free Jimmy John’s Sandwiches to-go on the front lawn
1:00-6:00pm Sanctuary and Patio Open for quiet space:
Prayer stations available to engage individual, experiential, reflective encounters with
your faith.
4. Fill in each field (First Name, Last Name, Email Address, Confirm Email Address, Password).
Check each box that
6:00-6:30pm BE you
FED!agree to theirSoup
Free Panera policies):
and Chips to-go on the front lawn
7:45-8:00pm Yoga as Prayer in Sanctuary:
Distanced 15 minutes of simple facilitated yoga to engage body and faith.
8:15-8:30pm Election Day Evening Prayer and Communion by Candlelight
in Sanctuary
*Covid19 precautions: Masks and sign-in required. Ample hand sanitizer and masks available. Sanitization will
occur between each event.*
Campus Lutheran | 2715 9th Ave. Kearney, NE 68845 | www.campuslutheranunk.org
15FLY FUNDRAISER EVENT -- CONTINUED 5. Login to the auction using your email and password, click on “Login.” 6. You will be directed to our auction home screen. Click the green button, “View All Items:” 7. Items will appear in grid form, with a photo, title, and brief description: 16
FLY FUNDRAISER EVENT -- CONTINUED
8. Click on an individual title to view more information. Once you have clicked, be sure to scroll down
the page for item details and donor information.
9. Place your bid! Simply click on “Bidding” and enter the amount you wish to bid (or “Buy Now” to
secure the item at/just above its retail value!).
Part 2: Advent Agape Meal via Zoom – Sunday, December 6 @ 6-7:30pm
What is in Agape Meal? It is a Christian fellowship meal recalling the meals Jesus shared with disciples during his
ministry and expressing the koinonia (community, sharing, fellowship) enjoyed by the family of Christ – with a
2020 twist: it’s on Zoom!
You prepare your simple meal at home, ready to serve, and join the Zoom! FLY will host this event that is part
worship, part storytelling, part fellowship and eating together, and all heart.
Two surprise live auction items will be featured on Zoom, so be ready for bidding!
To attend the Advent Agape Meal via Zoom, you are asked only for a free-will donation of any amount.
You can make a donation by making a cash or check donation designated “FLY Agape Meal” to the offering box or
sent to church office.
Please RSVP by Sunday, December 6 @ 12pm. The Zoom link will be shared with all participants on the
afternoon of the event. We hope you’ll join us!
17NOTES FROM THE PRESCHOOL:
A MINISTRY OF FLC
Greetings from Pre-K! Happy Holidays!
With the month starting out with Boy did we have fun since last I wrote you!
Halloween, a full moon and a time change, all We got through all the colors and shapes. We
went smoothly. finished our shape mobile and it was hanging in
In November, the class learned about our room! We get lots of compliments and most
know all their shapes already! We have gone
all types of fall things, from scarecrow to through numbers 0-10 and going to go through
Veterans, to Pilgrims to the Mayflower. We them again. I want to keep reinforcing them,
talked about being thankful and ended the because I want to help those who do not know
month with learning all about animals that them all yet. You would be amazed how many
hibernate. know all their numbers though!
We talked about the Solar System and Halloween was amazing! We made a
especially the Moon. The class was really monster mask that went with the story, “Go Away
interested and excited about that! Big Green Monster”. They got to color and read
Due to the Covid rise, the Trails and many times their first book about 5 little pumpkins.
Rails will not have their annual Christmas Tree The Costume Parade and games we played were
so fun! Students also got to pick a pumpkin to take
Walk this year; instead they will have an home. The fun and learning never ends here!
online auction with small trees and wreaths.
Both the Pre-K and 3-year-old Preschool Now we are preparing for Thanksgiving,
talking about what we are thankful for, making
rooms will have One Tree and One Wreath
turkey placemats, decorative Indian corn, Indian
that they will decorate. You are welcome to headbands and learning about the five healthy food
bid if you wish. groups! We also learned that exercise is important
We will be participating in the Yanney with eating healthy!
Park Holiday Light Festival which runs from Their handwriting and cutting is getting so
Saturday, December 5th – Saturday, much better! They can follow directions and are
December 12th. We hope you can stop by and participating in all our discussions! These kiddos
see our decorated site! love books and that is making my days and weeks
As December starts, we would like to wish even more fun! You can see how much smarter
and stronger they are getting in such a few months!
everyone a Merry Christmas and a Blessed
They are learning to play well with their peers and
New Year! are so helpful during clean-up time! God is good!
Have a blessed December and we will be putting
God Bless, Christ into Christmas!
Mrs. Judy & Ms. Sonya Go check out Yanney Park, this month,
when they have the light show that KP&R organize!
Our families will be helping us with our spot!
Merry Christmas!
Mrs. Amanda & Mrs. Lora
18DECEMBER CALENDAR HIGHLIGHTS
FLY Fundraisers
It is that time of year again! Time to
order your Christmas Poinsettias.
The plants will be available again
this year for $14.95 (will include bow ONLINE through December 20th!
and plate). You are welcome to mail
or deliver the form to the office at no
later than, Monday, November
30th. If you would like to put in
honor or in memory of someone you
can add this as well. Agape Meal via Zoom
Sunday, December 6th 6-7:30pm
ELCA Good Gifts Donations
To the office by December 31st
Wednesday Nights resume
January 6th
Sunday Mornings resume
January 10th
19First Lutheran Church, ELCA
Non-Profit Org.
3315 G Avenue U.S. POSTAGE PAID
Kearney, Nebraska 68847-3699 Permit No. 155
Kearney, NE 68847
ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED
M AY
RECEIVING
GOD’S GRACE
SHARING
GOD’S LOVE
UNITING FIRST LUTHERAN CHURCH DECEMBER 2020
IN CHRIST
3315 G Avenue - Kearney, Nebraska 68847
Missing the calendar page?
Check it out on our website:
https://firstlutherankearney.org/calendar/
PHONE: 308-237-5544 WEB: www.firstlutherankearney.org
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