Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas! May the love and peace of the Christ child fill your hearts and celebrations this Christmas!

Join us for worship:
Christmas Eve (tonight!!): Candlelight & Carols, 6pm and 9pm
Christmas Day (tomorrow!!): Service of Holy Communion, 10am
1st Sunday of Christmas (the 26th): Lessons & Carols with Holy Communion, 10am

May the joy of the season last all 12 days of Christmas!

Guest post - A GREAT idea to spread the good news of Christmas

This post comes from the blog of the Lead Pastor of my home congregation, Sammamish Hills Lutheran Church, in Sammamish, Washington.

John says,

Good day! It isn’t my usual custom to forward mass emails, particularly the ones that come in a “you must pass this on…”, however, a request came this morning that tore at my heart. The request is simple. When you do your Christmas mailing (even if that is an “if” or by electronic means), please set aside a card of
encouragement and good cheer and send it to:

A Recovering American Soldier
c/o Walter Reed Army Medical Center
6900 Georgia Avenue NW
Washington, D.C. 20307-5001

As a person who spent more than one Christmas in the armed forces, as well as a month or so in an Army hospital, I can bear witness to either one being a lonely experience on their own. To combine the two, being hospitalized at Christmas, could be heart breaking.

Therefore, take a few extra minutes, fill out a card, mail it,and send the light of the manger to what might otherwise be a dark and lonely place. What do you write? Just a little bit about yourself, but, the most important words to write are these: thank you.

Thank you!

Grant and I are finally beginning to work on our Christmas
card list. I'll be sending at least one card to Walter Reed. Will you,
too?

On this day in 1948...

On December 10, 1948, the United Nations adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. I encourage you to read it, and to pray for all those people and places waiting for recognition of basic human rights.
We pray also for Liu Xiaobo. He is being awarded the Nobel Peace Prize today for his long and non-violent struggle for fundamental human rights in China, but cannot accept this prestigious award in person because he is serving an 11-year prison sentence for proposing democratic reforms. His prize was placed on an empty chair.

Decorations - and a Blessing for the Christmas Tree

Is your Christmas tree up yet? Ours is not, partly because I'd really like to get the multiplying dust bunnies out from under the sofa before we bring anything else into the family room, partly because the days just fly by and we never seem to get to the task (that, and Grant and I are a little more tired than we used to be during Advent... I have renewed appreciation and admiration for all you parents, especially those parenting more than one child!).

I must confess, I don't feel like I need a whole lot of decorations up this year, as I could spend hours just sitting and watching our seven-week old daughter. That's probably predictable, and maybe a little corny, but I think it may be good for me, too - to think about what this season of anticipation is really about, to be thankful for life and love, to do just one thing at a time, to be forced to slow down.

One of the Advent devotions Grant and I are reading together is titled "Hurry Up and Wait." Do you feel that push/pull in your life these days? Stores would have us hurry up and shop, here at church we ponder what it means to wait on God. With all of the commitments of the season - at work, at school, with friends and family, even at church, it can feel like we hurry from one thing to the next without even being able to catch our breath sometimes. Some of us even like it that way. Maybe that's why God came down as a baby - to convince us to slow down enough to notice the little things, to break into our lives with a schedule we can't adjust by sheer force of will (a baby is hungry when a baby is hungry, after all, convenient timing or not), to be as vulnerable as we are, to encourage us to love.

Maybe I'll appreciate our Christmas tree, and all the other gifts of the season, all the more when it finally is up, having been made to wait.

Here's a blessing for the Christmas tree at your house. It is adapted from Sundays and Seasons Year A 2008 © 2007 Augsburg Fortress. Even if your tree's been up for weeks, it's not to late to bless it!

This reading and blessing may be used when the tree is first lit, or at any other appropriate time.

Psalm 96:11-13
Let the heavens rejoice, and let the earth be glad;
let the sea thunder and all that is in it;
Let the field be joyful and all that is therein.
Then shall all the trees of the wood shout for joy at your coming, O Lord,
for you come to judge the earth.
You will judge the world with righteousness
and the peoples with your truth.

Blessing
Be praised, O God, for the blessings around us that point to you.
Be praised, O God, for the signs of this holy season that awaken us in wonder.
Praise for the steadfast green of this tree, like your love, O God, enduring all seasons.
Praise for the light that illumines our darkness, like Christ, who brings light to the world.
Join our voices with those of the tree and of all creation, who sing at your coming:
Glory to God in the highest,
And peace to God’s people on earth.
Amen

Hope over hatred and despair

Remember Pearl Harbor!

Nation will not take up sword against nation, nor will they train for war anymore. Isaiah 2:4c

Sixty-nine years ago today the naval air forces of Japan launched a devastating surprise attack on United States naval ships and other military targets on the Hawaiian island of Oahu. It was the worst defeat recorded for the United States Navy. Over 2700 lives were lost that December morning. Over 1100 men were killed when the battleship U.S.S. Arizona took a direct hit in its black powder magazines.

The attack was a complete success in the eyes of the Japanese airmen who flew in the raid, lead by Imperial Japanese Navy Commander Mitsuo Fuchida.

The attack by Japan forced the United States to declare war on the Japanese empire, as well as her allies Germany and Italy.

The battle cry “Remember Pearl Harbor” sent Americans by the millions to enlist in the war effort and support it with their flesh, blood, and treasure. The war was fought until August 1945 when Japan surrendered unconditionally to the United States and her allies.

The war in the Pacific was especially brutal, fueled by racism on both sides that dehumanized the foe and traumatized the combatants.

America would suffer a string of defeats from December 1941 until April 1942, when a retaliatory raid was launched against Japan by U.S. Army Air Corps bombers flown off a naval carrier.

An air man on that raid was Sgt. Jake DeShazer, who flew as a bombardier on Plane No. 16 that launched from the U.S.S. Hornet.

After the war, Commander Fuchida was despondent and out of work. He represented many of his fellow Japanese, a thoroughly defeated foe.

In 1950 Mr. Fuchida went to hear Mr. DeShazer speak at an evangelism rally in Japan. Mr. DeShazer had made a promise on April 18th, 1942 as he was bombing the empire of Japan, that if he survived the Doolittle Raid he would return to Japan as a Christian missionary.

Two old foes had a chance to meet, and Jake DeShazer brought Mitsuo Fuchida to accept Jesus Christ as his savior.

Both men endured ridicule and outright rejection by their former comrades in arms for befriending the enemy.

Later in his life, exactly twenty-five years after leading the attack on Pearl Harbor, Mitsuo Fuchida presented the Pearl Harbor survivors association with a bible.

Fuchida and DeShazer remained close friends for the rest of their lives.

It is a miracle, that in the cauldron of human conflict played out in the Pacific Theater of Operations during WW2, two old foes found a common identity in Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace.

Inspiration

Looking for some reflective inspiration this Advent? Check out Jan Richardson's blog, The Advent Door: entering a contemplative Christmas.

Looking for ways to keep the heart of Christmas in the season and ideas for not getting overwhelmed by consumerism? Check out Advent Conspiracy.

Happy browsing!

A new (old) sound for Advent

This is not Wyle E. Coyote's anvil, though when I think about it, that's probably where most of my exposure to anvils came from as a kid: Road Runner cartoons. No, this is Isaiah's anvil, as in Isaiah 2:4: They shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruning hooks; nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war anymore.

Isaiah 2:1-5 was the Old Testament reading for the first Sunday in Advent in the Revised Common Lectionary this year. And we heard it at CtK last night during our Advent Evening Prayer. Perhaps the sound of sledgehammer meeting anvil is a better soundtrack for Advent than jingle bells and cash register drawers (thanks to Rolf Jacobson for talking about Jim Liburg's sermon with the mother of all object lessons: an anvil in the sanctuary).

Can you imagine a world where no one learns war anymore? Where soldiers aren't trained to kill, children are not left orphans or dead as collateral damage casualties themselves, where women aren't victims of sexual assault as a weapon of war, and the whole world actually lives in peace?

Isaiah can imagine it. The prophet has seen it in a vision from God.

May God grant us faith in the coming Prince of Peace, and hope so sure that we can start using that anvil, even now. Come, Lord Jesus.

World AIDS Day

December 1st is World AIDS Day. Please join in praying for all those who live with HIV/AIDS and for those who care for HIV/AIDS patients.

Check out Bishop Hanson's World AIDS Day message.

An Ubuntu Christmas

The newest issue of Bold Cafe is here. Check out the reflections on Advent and Christmas.

It's still November, but Advent is here

Happy Advent!

Welcome, again, to the season of anticipation, of waiting, watching, and getting ready.

You are invited to join in a simple supper of soup and bread here at CtK on the next three Wednesday evenings (December 1st, 8th & 15th). We'll have dinner at 6:00pm and then move into the worship space at 7:00pm for a time of Advent Vespers, using Holden Evening Prayer. The messages will be based on the lectionary texts for the Sundays in Advent, since we're doing a special series on Sunday mornings, called "While Shepherds Watched."

See you tomorrow night!

The Power of Hope

In addition to being Christ the King Sunday, at CtK in Bozeman today's the third Sunday in a three-part series titled "Grow as Stewards though Faith, Love and Hope!" And today's theme was "hope."

In the sermon I asked the congregation to consider what boosts their Christian hope. Is there a particular Bible verse or story that always consoles and brings hope? Or a hymn or worship song that puts things in perspective and restores hope?
One thing I always love about returning to Luther Seminary for continuing education is going to worship in the chapel. Without fail there will be at least a couple of hymns chosen that are perfect for four-part (at least) harmony - and that many seminarians, professors, pastors and church workers in one place guarantees singing with gusto and all four parts being covered. It is so fun, and inspiring, to feel a part of such a choir, so much bigger than just myself - the words and the harmonies seem to pick me up and carry me - what I hope is a foretaste of the feast to come.

What else brings you hope? What demonstrates the power of hope in your life?

One sermon illustration I left out (because, let's face it, the sermon was plenty long as it was) but which I love for the picture of hope it provides, is the movie "Shawshank Redemption." At the end of the film, Red, played by Morgan Freeman, has been released from almost a lifetime in prison. He has to negotiate life "on the outside" for the first time in decades, something a friend released before him was unable to do (Brooks took his own life out of despair). But Red has a plan to join his friend, played by Tim Robbins, in Mexico. And this is what Red says, "I hope I can make it across the border. I hope to see my friend. I hope the Pacific is as blue as it is in my dreams. I hope..."

What a difference hope makes.

I hope for the coming of Christ. I hope that God will change my heart and make it more like his. I hope my new daughter will know that her Lord and her parents are crazy in love with her. I hope God can use me to help others know the mercy, forgiveness, love and belonging that are given in Jesus.

What do you hope for? Leave a comment and join the conversation...

Montana Synod Newsletter

Here is the latest newsletter from the Montana Synod. Check it out!

Ten things children should know about prayer

Ever wondered how to get beyond "Now I lay me down to sleep..." when praying with and for your kids? Here are ten things kids should know about prayer.

This list comes to you from Seeds for the Parish, a resource newsletter for leaders in the ELCA. It was printed in the August 2010 edition.

1. Prayer is communication. It can be spoken or silent. It can be a song or a story. It can be a picture or a dance.

2. Prayer can be done as often as you like. Every week. Every day. Every hour.

3. Prayer can be done however you want. There's no right or wrong way to pray.

4. Prayer can be shared, but it doesn't have to be. It can be done alone or with a favorite toy. It can be done with friends, family or pets.

5. Prayer can be done anywhere. It can be done in your room or at the kitchen table. It can be done out in your yard, at the park or even at the zoo.

6. Prayer can be done in any mood. You can be happy, sad, angry, scared or confused when you pray.

7. Prayer can be for yourself or someone else. If you know someone who could use a little help - add them to your prayers.

8. Prayer doesn't need a certain structure, length or specific words. Whatever words you use, long or short, however your prayer comes out is fine.

9. Prayer doesn't need a special occasion. There are certain prayers appropriate to special occasions, but you don't need to wait for a speical time to pray.

10. Prayer doesn't have to be a request. It can also be used to give thanks for what you have already received. "Thank you" is a prefect prayer.

Lost and Found

My heart is full of joy today.

Sorry to disappoint you. Baby Barnett Christenson has not yet arrived.

I am talking about the miraculous rescue of the thirty-three trapped Chilean mines. The news these days seems to be filled with bad news. “If it bleeds, it leads.” Thank goodness there is some good news for a change! And how heartening to hear that the miners fought over who would come up last in the Phoenix rescue capsule!

I have been moved by the photographs of the miners and their families giving thanks to God for their safe rescue. What was lost has been found again.

On a matter closer to home, I am glad my neighbor found his two lost dogs.

I was out walking Violet the dog last Monday, when I heard a high pitched bark from a neighbor’s yard. Within moments the source of the bark (a Pug) punched a hole through the fence and ran across the street. His partner in crime, a small beagle, followed shortly. I ran to the next door neighbor’s house, asked for help, and proceeded to chase the two small dogs across an empty field towards some town homes. It was a hopeless cause. The two canines, having found freedom, seized it and ran with glee through my subdivision. I chased them with Violet in tow, until I lost track of them. Even after returning to the scene of the escape with my Honda, I still could not find Mr. Pug and Miss Beagle.

I was crestfallen. I know what it’s like to lose a beloved pet. I was sure the pug and the beagle would run away, never to be found again. Until this morning.

While walking Violet this morning, we passed by the backside of the home of the pug and the beagle. I did not hear their high pitched barking. But passing by the street side of the home, I saw the two happy dogs, barking to their heart’s content from the living room. Oh, what joy!

Can you imagine how heaven feels when a lost sinner is found? There must be great rejoicing, like what’s going on in Chile and what’s going on in a modest size home right here in Bozeman. What was lost has now been found again.

Let’s throw a party!

Advent ahead of time

We're still waiting. And I'm beginning to feel a little bit like it's Advent ahead of time - you know, the four weeks before the celebration of the Incarnation of Our Lord (aka Christmas) - when we are encouraged to wait and watch and be prepared.
And yet this waiting, for this baby, is different from the yearly round of waiting for Jesus to be born. After all, Christmas comes pre-printed on the calendar, and the 25th of December comes quite predictably, whether you're ready or not. And weirdly, at the same time, this waiting, for this baby, is the same as the yearly round of Advent reminders that Jesus really is coming back - I know the baby is coming, I just don't know when. I've done what I can to prepare, but now what? How to live in the meantime?
Do you remember that you're living in the meantime, most days? Does it even enter your mind that today could be the day when Jesus comes back and everything will be new all over again? If not, why not? Does it- or would it - make any difference in your life? Why (or not)? How?

PS - Grant and I are each working on a blog entry or two that will be posted while we're on parental leave (post-dating blog entries is one of the wonders of blogger). So, even when we're gone, you might check in for something new.

Waiting

I am not, by nature, a patient person. I tend to prefer to be in control of as much of my life as possible, even though I know that ultimately there's very little I have control over.
Answering the phone this morning to my sister's voice singing, "Happy due date to you, happy due date to you..." only reminded me how not in control I am of some pretty major things in my life. Like when this baby is going to be born.
I know I'm not the only one who's getting anxious about this impending arrival. Folks have started calling the church office asking if I'm here, and when our fabulous Office Manager Dawn says, "Yes, hold on," the caller says, "No, I don't want to talk to her, I was just wondering if she's still there." Don't worry - we'll let you know when the baby has come, if it's a boy or a girl, and what we decide the name should be.
A few lines from Evan Almighty keep coming back to me. Morgan Freeman, who plays God in the film, has a great conversation with Evan's wife, Joan. And he says, "Let me ask you something. If someone prays for patience, do you think God gives them patience? Or does he give them the opportunity to be patient? If they pray for courage, does God give them courage, or does he give them opportunities to be courageous? If someone prayed for their family to be closer, you think God zaps them with warm, fuzzy feelings? Or does he give them opportunities to love each other?"
I am definitely being given the opportunity to be patient. Thanks for joining me on the journey.

Sermon reflections 10 October 2010

Read Luke 17:11-19

1. What are you thankful for?
2. How do you express thanks to God?
3. How can your life reflect an outward expression of thanks?
4. Are you thankful for someone in your life? Make a commitment this week to reach out and tell them. No texting or emailing, please. A person to person chat is best. A phone call is second best.

New Issue of Cafe

The latest issue of Cafe is out - the theme is "Who are you to judge?"

You can read it here or listen to the podcast here.

Enjoy!

Sermon reflection for Sunday 3 October 2010

Read Luke 17:5. Lord, increase our faith!

Questions from FAITH TALK as mentioned in my sermon.

Actions
1. Most people know times when Christianity seemed to be nothing more than a set of rules and regulations. What restriction troubled you as a child or youth? Why?
2. Do you or your friends ever talk about religion or what faith means to each of you? Describe.
3. How does someone in your day to day setting express faith through actions?
4. In what situation would it be the most awkward for you to talk about your faith? Why?
5. Christ asks us to “take up our cross and follow” him. What comes to your mind when you consider what this command might mean for you?
6. How does your Christian faith relate to your everyday life?
7. The Ten Commandments describe a life style associated with the Christian life. Which one seems to be ignored most today? What prompts your choice?

Values
1. List and prioritize the five things you value most.
2. If someone asked you what your faith means to you, what would be your response?
3. Did you ever go through a period of doubting there is a God? Tell about it.
4. What benefit do you see from believing that Christ is present in your life?
5. How do you distinguish between a true faith and a false faith?
6. What is childlike about your faith?
7. How has your faith changed since you were a child?

Etchings
1. What is one of your favorite Bible passages? Why is it significant to you?
2. What piece of music says something about your faith? In what way?
3. What unique symbol of faith is most important to you?
4. If you could choose one person to be your spiritual mentor or guide, whom would you choose? Why?
5. Tell about a time when your faith seemed especially weak.
6. Do you find Sunday worship services a good experience? Why or why not?
7. What effect does nature have on your faith?

Memories
1. Tell about a childhood religious education (Sunday School) teach you remember. Why does this person stand out?
2. What traditions or rituals did your family have at Easter time? Christmas time?
3. What was the first religious song you learned?
4. Recall a humorous event that occurred at your church.
5. Tell about a sermon or inspirational talk you remember.
6. Tell about a time when God seemed to be far away?
7. What do you wish your father had told you about his father?

St. Michael and All Angels

Today, 29 September, is the day the Christian church remembers St. Michael and All Angels. St. Michael is mentioned in the Book of Daniel,in the Gospel of Luke, and in the Book of Revelation.

Read these following Bible verses to learn more about St. Michael.
Daniel 10:10-14, 12:1-3
Luke 10:17-20
Revelation 12:7-12

Everlasting God, you have wonderfully established the ministries of angels and mortals. Mercifully grant that as Michael and the angels contend against the cosmic forces of evil, so by your direction they may help and defend us here on earth, through your Son Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God whom we worship and praise with angels and archangels and all the company of heaven, now and forever. Amen!

Photos from Friday at the Cardboard Box City

A good time was had by all at the Family Promise Cardboard Box City on Friday night. And CtK participants even won some prizes - congratulations!

It's not too late to donate to Family Promise if you'd like to. Check out their website.

And a few more photos from the event:

The Parade of Boxes

Looking for a fun and easy evening "out" on the town tomorrow night? Stop by the Family Promise Cardboard Box City at Bogert Park in Bozeman at 7pm for the Parade of Boxes. Cheer on the CtK members who will be spending the night outside in cardboard (and check out their groovy Monopoly game-themed boxes). Stick around to listen to the speakers and learn about homelessness in the Gallatin Valley - and how Family Promise makes a real difference in the lives of families in our area.
It's gonna be great!

Tag-Ons to Pr. Grant's sermon reflections

On Sunday morning, Pr. Grant once again confessed to having raided the stacks of books I'm reading (yes, there's always more than one book being read at a time, perhaps it's my own version of having a short attention span...)
The book he mentioned on Sunday was The Story of Stuff, by Annie Leonard. She wrote the book after her short movie, of the same name, received a ton of attention, and many folks asked her to expand on the ideas she'd condensed down for easy communication in short video format.
I haven't read the whole book yet, but it is very thought provoking. If you pick up a copy, let me know, I'd love to know what you think.
Here's the video that started it all:



And here's the latest video, The Story of Cosmetics, which makes me glad I got over the habit of making up my face every day. I find it very interesting that companies are not required to prove the safety of their products or ingredients before encouraging us to rub them all over our bodies. Just because it's for sale, doesn't mean it's safe. Thoughts?

Sermon reflections September 19th

1. Read Amos 8:4-7
2. These words are written in the front of one of my study bibles. "God's Word comforts the afflicted and afflicts the comfortable." How do these words apply to you and your situation.
3. Do you know of a company that handles toxic materials in a responsible way? Emily Natale on Sunday reminded me that Apple resources its raw material for production from reliable sources that do not exploit their workers or the environment. Thanks, Emily!
4.Here's an exercise in wise financial management. Pull the credit cards from your wallet/purse and determine the balance you owe on each of the cards and the interest rate charged by each card. You may discover that the $45 you spent on sandals last week are costing you $10 in interest every month you don't pay off the balance owed on the credit card.
5. Is there hope in this bleak passage from the prophet Amos? Where are you bringing hope to the poor here in Bozeman and in greater Gallatin County?

Taize Service this Weekend

All are invited to a service of music, readings and prayers in the style of the Taize community, this Sunday, September 19th at 7pm. The service is meditative, incorporating periods of silence for reflection and prayer.
Curious about Taize? Check out their website, and some of their music.

Family Promise Cardboard Box City

A fabulous box from the 2009 Cardboard Box City

It's that time of year again: time to get a really big box, decorate it, collect pledges, and then sleep in your box at Bogert Park to raise money for Family Promise of Gallatin Valley. The Family Promise Cardboard Box City 2010 is coming Friday, September 24th, with set up beginning at 5pm, dinner at 6pm and the parade of boxes (for everyone, even if you're not spending the night) at 7pm. This event is not only a ton of fun and the biggest fund raiser for an amazing ministry to homeless families in our area, it's practically guaranteed to make you appreciate the roof over your head and the warm, comfortable bed you get to sleep in every night. Not bad, huh?

You can learn more at familypromisegv.org and pick up a brochure and money collection envelope here at CtK.

We'll be having a "Build Your Box" event here on Sunday evening, from 5-7pm. Bring your big box (fridge boxes work well) and decorating supplies, and join with other CtK folks to get ready for next Friday night!

Sermon reflections

Sorry this is getting out a bit late.
The in-laws were in town last weekend and I thoroughly enjoyed their company (as well as them taking us out on a Costco run).

1. Read Luke 15:1-10.
2. Think about the last time you felt lost. It could mean being physically lost or mentally lost due to a divorce, job loss, or death of a family member or friend.
How did you feel? What helped you get oriented once again?
3. How does God "find us?" Can God "find us" through the proclamation of God's Word, or by receiving the sacrament of Holy Communion?
4. Do you rejoice when a loved one is "found?" Can you rejoice when a complete stranger is "found" by God?
5. Name the ways Christ the King helps sinners feel welcomed. Can we do a better job at making them feel more welcomed?

Remember, Education Hour/Sunday School is for EVERYONE - grown-ups, too! We're never done learning about how awesome God is, what the Bible says, what it means to live as a Christian today, how to live in community, etc...

See you Sunday for learning, worship and a great time of food and fellowship at the BBQ Potluck!

Hunger Action Month

Did you know that September is Hunger Action Month? I didn't, until I saw a bunch of handouts at the library earlier this week.

The Gallatin Valley Food Bank has a great calendar of daily activities for the whole month - check it out!

And don't forget to bring a box of cereal for CtK's annual Cereal Drive!

Sermon Reflections

I know I'm a bit late. Some weeks are like that...

Last Sunday's reading from the Gospel according to Luke was a tough one. After worship I asked Grant if my sermon seemed harsh. He hesitated. So I added, "Well, Jesus' words were harsh." And he said something like, "Yes, and you stuck to them." There you go, then.
(Check out the reading, Luke 14: 25-33 and see for yourself.)

We had friends from Missoula stay with us Saturday night, who also came to worship Sunday morning. Julie is a pastor's kid, grew up in the church, and now is raising her son in church, too. We talked a little about the reading, and the sermon, over brunch. She said she appreciated the challenge to live differently, noting that following Jesus isn't always supposed to be easy or comfortable. It might make us squirm to have our shortcomings called out, but that doesn't mean it's not good for us.

I told her about a great line I read somewhere (I have no idea where): People don't commit to that which requires no commitment.

Jesus requires commitment of his disciples. To me it goes back to the first commandment: You shall have no other gods. God is first. In all things. Lord help our lives reflect that, each and every day.

Despair at the gym

Why do we obsess about this woman?

I was working out The Ridge, a Bozeman athletic club, on Friday morning.
In front of the treadmills, stationary bikes, and elliptical trainers are a number of very large flat screen televisions. Two of them are always tuned to Sports Center. One is usually tuned to a local station. Another one broadcasts re-runs of popular cable shows. One television is dedicated to the entertainment channel E!
That television is usually right in front of my favorite elliptical trainer, the third one from the left in the back row.

At the time I was doing my workout, between 8:45 a.m.-10:15 a.m. E! was broadcasting a report about the recent arrest of Paris Hilton in Las Vegas. She was charged with drug possession, a minor charge if she didn’t have a prior criminal record. Unfortunately she does have a record, so it’s big entertainment news.

The report continued with countless portrayals of Ms. Hilton at parties, gatherings, celebrity functions, and the like.

Ms. Hilton appears to enjoy the spot light, no matter how harshly it shines upon her.

My question to the E! Channel and to my fellow television viewers is “Why do we obsess about this woman?” There is hunger in the world. Countless men, women, and children are dying for lack of food, clean water, and sustainable shelter. Who gives a rip what Paris Hilton is up to these days?

Throughout much of my workout I was in great despair.

Then I came to work at Christ the King.

In the social hall, against the north wall by the kitchen entrance, there is a table set up for Gallatin Valley Food Bank. During August and September Christ the King collects boxes and bags of cereal for the food bank. Our goal is three hundred boxes collected by the end of September.

Fifty boxes sat on the table, waiting to be brought to the food bank. Fifty boxes had been collected and distributed.

We are a third of the way to our goal!

I am glad to know there are people in the world who worry more about their hungry neighbors near and far, than the troubles of a misguided celebrity.

FREE Suicide Prevention Webinar

Thanks to CtK member Tom for sending this information our way. Unfortunately our wireless service in the social hall doesn't quite have enough "oomph" to make hosting this webinar a possibility at this point. That said, registration is FREE, so if you've got some free time a week from today, check it out!

Mental Health First Aid for Suicide Prevention
Friday, Sept 10, 2010 11:00 am Mountain time

FREE REGISTRATION

In the United States, a person dies by suicide every 16 minutes. Approximately 87% of people who complete suicide have a mental disorder. But suicide is preventable. September 10 is World Suicide Prevention Day, and you can make a difference. Take an hour and join us for a webcast that sheds light on the common signs, symptoms, and risk factors for depression and other mood disorders that increase the risk of suicide. Learn how you can recognize when someone is experiencing symptoms of depression or is suicidal and see what you can do to help.The webcast is presented by Marie Dudek, a certified Mental Health First Aid instructor, President of Creating Today, Inc., and the executive committee chair of the Central Florida Chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.

Click on the link for more information about the National Council for Community Behavioral Health Care.

The Cereal Drive Continues

What did you have for breakfast? I ate a nice big bowl of store brand oat honey and nut flavored o's. With the last of the nonfat milk and a glass of orange juice. Yummy!
I'll be stocking up on cereal and milk later today, at one of the local store's 13 hour sales. I'll also be buying a couple of extra boxes of cereal for the Cereal Drive here at CtK. Perhaps you might do the same?

Confirmation Kick-Off

Tonight is Confirmation Orientation for 6th-8th grade students and their parents. I'm really looking forward to beginning another year of questions, stories and lots of laughter, and I think Wednesday night classes will be one of the ministries I miss most when on parental leave.
One of the ways I think about preparation for Affirmation of Baptism (Confirmation) is that it's a partnership between the congregation and domestic church, aka the family. Please pray for our students and their families as we dig in again, that parents will remember all those promises they made at their child's baptism, and realize that they truly are the primary teachers of faith for their kids.
I can talk all I want about the importance and amazing gift of prayer, but if families never pray together, and kids/youth don't see/hear their parents pray, the chances of them growing a strong prayer life are slim.
I can talk all I want about stewardship and the blessings of generosity, but if families are not generous with each other and the world, kids/youth will not learn the joy of sharing who they are and what they have.
You get the idea.
Let's pray!

More thoughts on last Sunday's Gospel text

Though I wasn't the preacher this past Sunday, I have been reflecting on the Gospel reading from Luke. I hear Jesus' call to invite "the poor, the blind, the crippled and the lame" to dinner, instead of one's friends and family, and think, "But I don't really KNOW that many poor, blind, crippled, or lame people." And then I think, "Why is that? Maybe I should."
What does it say about contemporary small town/suburban life that it's pretty easy to go day after day without crossing paths with folks who are all that different from me?
Our household gives regularly to the Gallatin Valley Food Bank, and that's a good thing, but I don't know many folks who receive regularly from the Gallatin Valley Food Bank. I wonder how my life would be different - better, I'd bet - if I did. Jesus isn't just calling us to share what we have with those we don't know, but to get to know those who would benefit from our sharing. I believe it's in the relationship that everyone benefits, perhaps the ones sharing most of all. Yes, it might make me more uncomfortable on one level, to put names and faces and very real lives to all the statistics it's so easy to shrug off, but is it right, or holy, to avoid that discomfort?

Sunday Reflections

1. Read Luke 14:1, 7-14.
2. Why do the guests actions (v. 7) attract Jesus’ attention? How do you imagine this scene? How does Jesus’ view of honor vary from that held by others at the meal?
3. How do things like customs and status get in the way of loving others in your family? Church? Work place? School? Community? World?
4. If you could throw a party for the “poor,” “crippled,” “lame,” and “blind” in your world, would you invite? How might you do this?

Cereal Drive Continues

CtK's Annual Cereal Drive is on! So far we've collected fewer than 50 boxes; our goal is 300+!
If you're able, pick up an extra box (or two) of breakfast cereal the next time you're at your favorite grocery store, and bring it to worship with you on Sunday. Volunteers will make sure it gets to the Gallatin Valley Food Bank.
Thanks!

Annual Blessing of the Backpacks this Sunday

School is starting! School is starting! For some of our students, classes began yesterday. Others hit classrooms this coming Monday. Please remember to hold all learners and educators in prayer this week and next!

This Sunday, August 29th, we'll have our annual Blessing of the Backpacks during worship at 9:30am. All students, teachers, professors, etc., are encouraged to bring their school bags with them to worship for the blessing.

A Prayer for Schools

Eternal God, bless all schools, colleges and universities, that they may be lively places for sound learning, new discovery, and the pursuit of wisdom; and grant that those who teach and those who learn may find you to be the source of all truth; through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord. Amen

-ELW, p. 78

Spaghetti Feed & Silent Auction

CtK is hosting a Spaghetti Feed & Silent Auction to benefit baby Shelby and her family. While she is growing stronger each day, Shelby remains in the NICU, after being born 16 weeks early back in April.
All funds raised will go to help the Ullom family with medical bills and other expenses resulting from Shelby's hospitilization and care.
Who could you invite to join you for this fun event? There will be lots of great items to bid on (photo sessions, salon services, a ton (literally!) of hay, lots of handmade arts and crafts, gift certificates to local businesses and more) and super tasty food to eat. A free will offering will be received at the door, how much do you think we can raise?
The Broadwater-Gallatin chapter #30546 of Thrivent Financial for Lutherans will be matching funds up to $5000. How great would it be if we can send several thousand dollars to the Ulloms!?!

Sunday Reflections

Did you notice that last week Pastor Grant wrote a reflection following his sermon on Sunday the 15th? Each week, the preacher is going to try to write something as a follow-up to his/her sermon, to help folks keep thinking about and applying the message to everyday life. Please let us know what you think! (especially you, Mr. Anderson...)

What IS Sabbath/Sunday for? Have you thought any more about that question? Have you considered being more intentional in the way you "remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy?"
In the Hebrew Scriptures, we see a development in thought about Sabbath - starting as a day to rest, as God rested in creation (Exodus 20), then as a way to celebrate freedom (Deuteronomy 5), and later as an identifying characteristic of God's people (Ezekiel): Who are the people of God? The Sabbath-keepers. Holiness, social justice, identity.

What gets in the way of your own sabbath-keeping? How would your life and schedule the rest of the week need to change in order for you to truly have a day off every week? Would it mean less TV on Tuesdays so that you could take a nap on Sunday? Getting the laundry and shopping done on Friday so that the to-do list doesn't get in the way of worship?

What blessings might you find in honoring sabbath? I know that I enjoy looking forward to a day with no "have-to's," or even "need-to's." Honoring sabbath reminds me that I'm not the one responsible for keeping the world spinning - not even my little corner of it. Keeping sabbath offers rest from the week before and fuel for the week ahead. Not that I'm always that good at it, but when the rhythm of my life includes a weekly day that is totally unlike the others, my life is better, and I'd venture to say I'm a better person to live and work with.

In Practicing Our Faith, Dorothy Bass writes,

What, besides churchgoing, is Christian Sabbath keeping? The answer must be
tailored to specific circumstances and will vary considerably in different
cultures and stages of life. It will be helpful in each circumstance to reflect
carefully on both what is good and what is not.
What is not good on Sabbath, or in Sabbath time? We would do well to heed
three millenia of Jewish reflection on the Sabbath commandment. Not good are
work and commerce and worry. To act as if the world cannot get along without our
work for one day in seven is a startling display of pride that denies the
sufficiency of our generous Maker. To refrain from working - not every day, but
one in seven - opens the temporal space within which glad and grateful
relationship with God and peaceful and appreciative relationship with nature and
otehr people can grow. Refraining from work on a regular basis should also teach
us not to demand excessive work from others. Commerce? Buying and spending are
closely related to working too much; they depend on work, create the conditions
for more work, and often are work. We could refrain from shopping on
Sundays, making a choice that might complicate the weekly schedule at first but
should soon become a refreshing habit. And worry? It may be difficult to banish
cares from our minds altogether, but we can refrain from activities that we know
will summon worry - activities like paying bills, preparing tax returns, and
making lists of things to do in the coming week.
And what is good on a Christian Sabbath? Most important is joyful worship
that restores us to communion with the risen Christ and our fellow members of
his body, the church. For Christians, every Sunday is Easter Sunday, a time
to gather together with song and prayer, to hear the Word proclaimed, and to
recognize Christ in the breaking of the bread. It is a festival, a spring of
souls, a day of freedom not only from work but also from condemnation. At
times, worshiping communities lose sight of this: hymns drag, elders judge,
children fidget, fancy clothes constrain, and the minutes tick
slowly by. In other congregations, joyful prayer and song burst
through the seams of the worship service, and hours pass before anyone is
ready to leave. The contrast suggests that we all need to remember that
Sunday worship is not just about "going to church"; it is about taking part in
the activity by which God is shaping a new creation. It is a foretaste
of the feast to come.

In Sabbath, Wayne Muller writes,

Our lack of rest and reflection is not just a personal affliction. It
colors the way we build and sustain community, it dictates the way we respond to
suffering, and it shapes the ways in which we seek peace and healing in the
world. I have worked for twenty-five years in the fields of community
development, public health, mental health, and criminal justice. With a few
notable exceptions, the ways problems are solved is frantically,
desperately, reactively, and badly. Depsite their well-meaning and generous
souls, community and corporate leaders are infected with a fearful desperation
that is corrosive to genuine helpfulness, justice or healing. As Brother
David Stiendl-Rast reminds us, the Chinese pictograph for "busy" is
composed of two characters: heart and killing.

A Welcoming Congregation

I've been doing a little research to help out one of our church council members who is writing a newsletter article for the September newsletter. It's amazing how much good stuff (and how much junk) there is online these days.

One of the good things I found online today is a set of "Tools for a Healthy Congregation," on an archived page of the ELCA website. There are three sections: Faithful, Welcoming and Generous. In addition to descriptions and stories to go along with each adjective, there are self-assessments showing how a congregation can becoming more faithful, welcoming and generous. If you decide to take any of the assessments, let me know what you learn!

Here's a great description of a Welcoming Congregation:
To be a welcoming congregation is to learn to welcome strangers as neighbors. It means moving from the mindset of “We know everybody here” to “I wonder who will come next; I can’t wait to get to know them!”
In welcoming congregations ALL members bear the responsibility of being a greeter. They have adopted the norm that they speak to at least one stranger BEFORE they speak to their friends. If they see someone they don’t know, they introduce themselves and welcome the visitor.

Do you think YOU could make it a habit to speak to at least one person you don't know (beyond just smiling and saying, "Good morning") before you talk to your friends and family here at CtK? You might be surprised how many regular worshipers you DON'T know. You might be the first to welcome someone new to Bozeman and new to the congregation.

How might the Holy Spirit use YOU on a regular old Sunday, to extend hospitality and welcome to new folks as well as the CtK "regulars?" What are some places, and who are some people, who have made you feel welcome when you've been the newbie? What can you learn from them?

Do you think you could make it a habit to talk to someone of a different generation at least once a week? How long would it take to get to know the names of every middle school and high school student? All of the elementary school kids? How would you feel if every Sunday a whole bunch of kids ran up to you to say "Hi!" and give you a high five? (It feels pretty great, trust me).

What do you have to lose?

Mark your calendar NOW!

The Learn Ministry Team met this afternoon, and in keeping with the tradition of the last several years, VBS 2011 will be the first week of August, 2011. So, MARK YOUR CALENDARS and plan to make a difference in the lives of the children of our community during Vacation Bible School, August 1st-5th, 2011!

My best garage sale purchase, ever!

I have a bible on the book shelf here in my office at Christ the King.

It cost me 1 buck to purchase it back in 1992.

Best dollar I ever spent.

The binding is now broken, and the pages are marked with yellow highlighter from the previous owner.

But I like it because the garage sale bible still gets read on occasion.

It’s not leather bound, or minature. It’s pages don’t have gold around the edges, like the bible I use during worship.

It’s a simple bible, well read and well loved.

What treasures will you find at garage sales this summer?

Pakistan Floods - Emergencies - Disaster Response - Lutheran World Relief

Check out this link to Lutheran World Relief's response to the flooding in Pakistan:

Pakistan Floods - Emergencies - Disaster Response - Lutheran World Relief

Post Sunday thought and reflection on Luke 1:46-55

Luke 1:46-55
Mary’s Song of Praise
46 And Mary said,
‘My soul magnifies the Lord,
47 and my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour,
48 for he has looked with favour on the lowliness of his servant.
Surely, from now on all generations will call me blessed;
49 for the Mighty One has done great things for me,
and holy is his name.
50 His mercy is for those who fear him
from generation to generation.
51 He has shown strength with his arm;
he has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts.
52 He has brought down the powerful from their thrones,
and lifted up the lowly;
53 he has filled the hungry with good things,
and sent the rich away empty.
54 He has helped his servant Israel,
in remembrance of his mercy,
55 according to the promise he made to our ancestors,
to Abraham and to his descendants for ever.’


1.What song or story from the bible would you want to share with your child or another adult?
2.Do you remember caring adults in your life who shared stories of God’s activity in the world?
3.Make a list of those caring adults in your life. If they are still alive, contact them and thank them for their witness. If they are deceased and awaiting the promise of Christ’s resurrection from the dead, name them in prayer and thank God for their faithful witness.
4.What words of phrases in Mary’s Song give you comfort? What words or phrases make you uncomfortable? Why?

Mission Trip Journal, The Return Home

This is the fourth and final installment of the CtK Middle School & High School Mission Trip to the Yakama Indian Reservation group journal. Enjoy!

July 23rd, Day 6 - Saying Good-bye, arriving in Coeur d'Alene, the afternoon and evening at Silverwood Theme Park.
Q: Who was it hardest to say good-bye to this morning? Why was it hard?
A: For me, it was hard to say good-bye to all the new friends I'd made. I had become especially close with these people: Luke, Sam and Rebecca. It was hard because I had worked with them and hung out with them all week and we had gotten really close. I hope we will be able to keep in touch! - Courtney

Q: The best thing about Silverwood was...
A: The best part about Silverwood was being able to stay late and ride some roller coasters at night. One of the roller coasters named Thunder Shock was the last coaster Jesse, Marley and I rode. It was an exhilarating ride and it woke us up. I wanted to ride again and again. - Robert

Q: My favorite part of today was...
A: Silverwood! Because one of the rides, Tremors, was freaky. There weren't any loop de loops, it was just fast and shake and dark... oh my! - Jeannette

Q: This trip was good because...
A: of the mission trip. I learned how to "be" more with Jesus and there were many new ways to see, hear, be with God. They were good teachers, the YouthWorks staff. - Robert

Q: The best parts of the trip were ___________ because ____________.
A: The best part was meeting new people and helping with kids and houses. THe most fun was serving God. - Marley

Q: The hardest parts of the trip were _______ because _________.
A: The hardest part of the trip was pleaseing the kids, because we didn't know them at first. - Jeannette

Q: I learned...
A: how good it feels to serve God and serve the community. I loved this mission trip! - Julian

Mission Trip Journal, Days 4 and 5

If you're just joining us, please go back and read the posts from Tuesday and Wednesday. Thanks!

July 21st, Day 4 - Third day of service on the Yakama Reservation
Q: Is there anything you didn't pack for the trip but wish you did? What is it and why do you wish you had it?
A: A ball, or frisbee, so I could contribute to the fun during free time. Sometimes we end up sitting around waiting for the next activity. Not that this event isn't fun, but some sections can be dull. - Jesse

Q: What was Bible study/devotions like this morning?
A: Devotions was really nice this morning since we got to go outside and lay on the lawn. I thought it was really peaceful and relaxing. - Julian

Q: How do you think God is using you to make a difference in the world this week?
A: It feels like he is using me to teach the kids about him. He's having Cory teach us how he worships him.

Q: What or who surprised you today? How?
A: The new friends that I meet. They become closer to us. But God brought them to me. I don't know the purpose that they have come to me. I think Memile and Katlin became our friends to show to me that I can be a friend and make people's days better. - Robert.

July 22nd, Day 5 - Fourth day of serving on the Yakama Reservation
Q: What are you missing about home?
A: I DON'T WANT TO GO HOME! No, but I've had an amazing time here. I've met so many amazing people and done some awesome things that really inspired me. However, I miss my friends and my own bed. I also miss long, hot showers! (Sadly, I miss my cell phone more than I should.) - Courtney

Q: What was the best part of your day today?
A: The best part of my day was having the time to spend with the new friends that I have met. Almost everything we did together. - Robert

Q: Which ministry site did you go to today? What did you do - what was the day like?
A: Kids' club. Today was "Funday," so today we played with water. The kids had a blast. It was particularly difficult to prevent the youth from playing with the water balloons, the kids needed to have fun first. - Jesse

Q: How have your feelings about Indian Reservations changed this week?
A: They haven't. - Jeannette

The end of the journey tomorrow...

Mission Trip Journal, Days 3 and 4

Go back to yesterday's post if you have no idea what I'm up to here, with the group journal kept by the participants in the CtK Mission Trip to Yakama.

July 19th, Day 3 - First day of service on Yakama Reservation
Q: What were your meals like today? What did you eat?
A: Good. B: cereal. L: sandwich. D: pasta. - Jeannette

Q: What was the hardest thing about your day today?
A: Opening up to a new perpsective on God from the Native Americans and how they view him and how they think of him. - Marley

Q: Did you go to kids' club or do home repair today? Tell about your experience.
A: I did home repairs today. I helped paint a house and today we just painted the trim but tomorrow we get to paint the actual house. It was really fun and I had a good time. - Julian

Q: The funniest thing that happened today was...
A: when one of the adult leaders started "preaching" to us about the zombie apocalypse. Bob and another group of kids were engaged in this huge conversation about the best way to survive. It was fantastic. Bob definitely knew what he was talking about. - Courtney

July 20th, Day 4 - Second day of service on the Reservation
Q: What was Club time like tonight?
A: Club tonight was fun but also kind of interesting because the main story of the day was the same as the story we had a sermon on on Sunday morning. The story was about when Jesus visits Martha and Mary and Mary listens to Jesus while Martha cleans the house. When Martha gets mad at Mary for not helping her Jesus tells her that it is better to listen and spend time with him than to be distracted by other things. We talked about how we need less distractions and more time just to be with Jesus. - JJ

Q: Who is the most interesting person you've met so far? What makes him/her interesting?
A: Cory has been the most interesting person. We are total strangers to him and he invites us like we knew him forever. He showed how he worshiped God. - Marley

Q: What was the weather like today? How does it affect the day?
A: The weather today was really hot. One of the leaders said it was about 95 degrees! Since I was helping paint it was better than it raining, but it could have been a little cooler because it was hot! - Julian

Q: Did you do kids' club today or repairs? Tell about your experience.
A: Today I worked with kids' club. Quite honestly, it was INCREDIBLE. Jeannette and I worked for the "Sharing Square," where we sang songs and read a story from the Bible. The kids had instant connections with all of the YouthWorks kids. A lot of the little girls loved to play and so I spent a lot of time with them. My back is a little sore from all the piggy back rides, but to see all the kids so happy was amazing! They are so full of energy and love. - Courtney

The journey continues...

CtK Garden Goodies

Check out this great photo of the first produce from the CtK garden delivered to the Gallatin Valley Food Bank yesterday. Many thanks to Ron Hanson for his work in the garden and for delivering the food (48 pounds so far!) to the food bank. If you haven't checked the garden out, stop by this week, or go peek on Sunday!

Mission Trip Presentation this Sunday

This Sunday, August 15th, the youth and adults who participate in the YouthWorks mission trip to the Yakama Indian Reservation in Washington will be making a presentation about their trip. The generous support of the congregation made this trip possible - don't miss hearing all about it and seeing the photos, too!

In addition to serving, making new friends, worship and Bible study, the group also kept a journal, responding to prompts each day. This week I'll highlight a few each day... a foretaste of the feast to come on Sunday.

July 17th, Day 1 - drive from Bozeman to Spokane
Q: What are you most nervous about for this mission trip?
A: I am most nervous about the kids getting along the whole week! I trust that they will make the best of their time together and take some "me" time if they need it. - Barb

Q: Tell about one interesting thing you saw on the way from Bozeman to Spokane.
A: One thing I noticed was that almost every car that passed us on the freeway was from Washington, even when we were in Montana. Silly Washingtonians! - Courtney

Q: What do you think will be the best part of this trip?
A: I think the best thing will be sleep. - Jeannette

July 18th, Day 2 - worship at Central Lutheran, Spokane, drive to mission site, meet other groups and leaders.
Q: How was worship this morning at Central Lutheran Church in Spokane? How was it similar/different from worship at CtK?
A: It was different ebcause there were not a lot of kids, had an organ. Everything had a memory of someone or something. They had stained galss, it was really cool - every single window had a story. - Marley

Q: What are your first impressions of the YouthWorks staff and site?
A: Cheerful, and they had their goofy sides. They seem kind and ready to help. - Jesse

Q: What are your first impressions of the other youth groups and leaders?
A: My 1st impression of the youth is that many of them are a lot younger than me. Lots of them are in middle school and only a few high schoolers. - JJ

More to come...

BBQ and Potluck this Sunday

EVERYONE is invited to worship at 9:30am this Sunday, when the VBS kids will sing a favorite song or two from Baobab Blast. After worship we'll have a potluck and BBQ. Burgers, hot dogs, buns, condiments and beverages will be provided. Please bring a salad, side dish or dessert to share. And feel free to bring croquet, bocce ball or a frisbee for some lawn game action. Invite your friends and neighbors, it's going to be great!

Newest "Bold Cafe" Issue Online: The changing relationship with our parents

The newest issue of Women of the ELCA's online zine for young women is now available. Check it out here.

Growing in God's Field III

There's a great event coming in October: Growing in God's Field III. You can read about it on the front page of this month's congregational newsletter and on the Montana Synod website. Brochures and registration forms are now available in our church office. We're hoping to get a dozen or two to participate and bring back some new ideas and energy to CtK. Pastor Grant, Barb and Robert Nolan and I attended Growing in God's Field II two years ago. Ask any of us and we'll tell you it was a great weekend!
Check out this video:

Fun at VBS

Vacation Bible School is FUN!

The Baobab Blast is Underway!

It's Vacation Bible School time here at CtK- 40 kids and a whole bunch of teen and adult leaders are here for "God's Great Get Together: The Baobab Blast!"

The kids are learning about life with God and with each other, as well as life on the African Savannah: so many animals, so many plants, so many customs that are different from ours! The songs are fun and rhythmic - make sure to put the VBS sing-along and Ice Cream Social on your calendar for this Thursday at 6:30pm. Ice cream will be provided - bring your favorite topping to share for the "build your own sundae bar." Yum!

Today's theme was Trust. We really can trust God, just like Abraham and Sarah did back in Genesis 12:1-9. The Bible Memory Verse today is Psalm 37:5 - Let the LORD lead you and trust him to help. See if you can commit it to memory, too!

Please keep the kids and leaders in your prayers this week. We're hoping for a FUN and SAFE week here at Ctk!

August Newsletter Online

The August edition of Christ Tidings, the congregation's monthly newsletter, is now available on the CtK website.

Outdoor Worship Scheduled this Sunday

We'll be heading outside to worship this weekend. The schedule is the same - worship at 9:30am, but the view will be different! We will gather on the east lawn, outside the social hall, for worship this Sunday. Bring a blanket or lawn chair to sit on (the chairs in the social hall aren't very friendly to the lawn, so they'll be left inside...). Don't worry: you won't be blinded by the sun, as your backs will be to the east. All the music will be printed in your bulletin, so don't worry about grabbing a hymnal, either. Bring an umbrella and sit at the back if you need shade...

See you on Sunday!!

How are your thumbs?

Do you have a green thumb? Even just a little? Do you aspire to green-thumb-ness? Then we have a job for you!

The CtK garden is growing like gang-busters. Unfortunately, so are the weeds! Do you have a few minutes to stop by and do a little weeding? No need to sign up, just show up!

Thanks!

Also needed for the garden: chicken wire. Have some to donate? Please call the church office at 587-4131.

CtK Youth to Play at Leaf and Bean

Courtney Yovich, one of CtK's many talented youth, will be performing at The Leaf and Bean this Friday, July 31st, at 8pm. Go enjoy a tasty treat and some great music on Main Street in downtown Bozeman!

Concordia College Corn Feed

Concordia College will host its annual corn feed at 6 p.m. Thursday, July 29, at the Lindley Park Pavilion on East Main Street in Bozeman. The event is for all Concordia alumni, students, parents, friends and prospective students in the area. Concordia provides the corn, along with butter, salt and napkins at no charge. Bring your own meal as well as lawn chairs and blankets. Beverages and dessert will be provided. Reservations are due by Monday, July 26. RSVP to Scott and Michelle Thorn at 587.2860 or riverrock@bresnan.net.

From Pastor Lindean: My younger sister is a "Cobber" - and my parents met at Concordia College back in the day. This is always a fun event. And the corn is just so darn tasty!

Benefit Auction August 29th

CtK is planning a spaghetti feed and silent auction on August 29th, 5-7pm, to benefit Shelby Ullom, daughter of Dan and Suzanne, who was born SUPER early in April and is still in the NICU. As you can imagine, it's been a tough time for everyone, and not inexpensive.

Do you have a skill, talent, product or service you might donate to the auction? Please call the church office at 587-4131 or pick up a donation form after worship on Sunday. Thrivent Financial for Lutherans will be matching funds raised, and we're hoping to help out Shelby's family in a big way!

Would you like to learn more about Shelby's story? Check out her Caring Bridge site.


Thank you for supporting this sister in Christ with your donations and prayers!

Help LWR Fill the Well.

Check out this video from Lutheran World Relief. And pass the water!

Montana Synod Newsletter

The newest edition of the Montana Synod newsletter is available online here. Check it out!

Wellness Walk & Bible Study Tonight

What are your plans for this evening? It's a beautiful day - don't stay inside all evening!

Come join the fun of a short Bible study focusing on wholeness and wellness and a relaxing walk through one of the neighborhoods next to Christ the King LC.

We'll meet at 7:30pm and be on our way home no later than 9pm. Wear your walking shoes and bring a (re-usable) bottle of water!

On Immigration Reform

A letter from Bishop Mark Hanson, the Presiding Bishop of the ELCA.

July 13, 2010

Dear sisters and brothers in Christ,

The time has come for immigration reform in the United States. Yes, the issues are complex and not easily resolved. It is understandable that people are wary of engaging this politically and emotionally charged issue.

Yet it would be tragic if we withdrew as people of faith and our voices fell silent. We have an opportunity for evangelical witness to our faith in God who is present in the stranger and calls us to extend hospitality. "Welcome one another, therefore, just as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God" (Romans 15:7 NRSV).

The biblical witness is clear. The distinctions that so often divide humankind are overcome in Christ. By grace through faith on account of Christ we are joined together in a radically inclusive community. "For in Christ Jesus you are all children of God through faith. As many of you as were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. There is no longer Jew or Greek, there is no longer slave or free, there is no longer male and female; for all of you are one in Christ Jesus" (Galatians 3:26-28).

Because God mercifully extends gracious hospitality in restoring us to community, we have a clear calling. That call is heard in God's command to the people of Israel, "You shall also love the stranger, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt. ... Then you, together with the Levites and the aliens who reside among you, shall celebrate with all the bounty that the Lord your God has given to you and to your house" (Deuteronomy 10:19; 26:11).

Most, but not all, Lutherans in the United States are the descendants of immigrants or are recent immigrants. Others are descendants of slaves brought to this country or people who lived here before the arrival of the first Europeans and Africans. Our personal histories and faith stories are of an immigrant people moving in search of freedom, opportunity and safety.

The Evangelical Lutheran Church in America is being renewed by the faith and witness of new and recent immigrants. This year 23 of 41 new ELCA ministry starts will be in immigrant communities, and more than 100 African national ministries have begun in the past three years.

We cannot welcome people into the ELCA, however, without caring about their lives, their concerns and their experiences as newcomers in this country. For that reason the ELCA repeatedly has affirmed the biblical witness and our shared experience, culminating in an affirmation by the 2009 Churchwide Assembly "that the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service (LIRS) are committed to work toward comprehensive [immigration] reform that balances respect for the law with the recognition of due process and respect for humanitarian principles." Stating that "the nation's immigration system is broken, and Congress and the administration must work together to find a just and humane solution while assuring orderly migration," LIRS identifies four foundational values for immigration reform:

keeping families together

maintaining basic human and worker rights

helping our new neighbors come out of the shadows

seeking a path to permanence for our new neighbors

As you serve in your communities, I commend to you resources for study and action (Toward Compassionate, Just, and Wise Immigration Reform [2009] and other resources), the voices of immigrant families and believers, and the witness of the Scriptures.

The concluding words of the Message on Immigration (1998) remind us "that all of us in the Church of Jesus Christ are sojourners, 'For here we have no lasting city, but we are looking for the city that is to come' (Hebrews 13:14). As we journey together through the time God has given us, may God give us the grace of a welcoming heart and an overflowing love for the new neighbors among us."In God's grace,

The Rev. Mark S. Hanson
Presiding Bishop
Evangelical Lutheran Church in America