Our Staff

Pastor Paul Lutter

Visitation Pastor Cindy Gray

Director of Children, Youth & Family

(CYF) - Kelly Kehr

Leah Smith, Office Manager

Krista Elvehjem, Office Assistant

Matt Smith, Custodian

December2017

Gracelines Email: church@gracechurchmora.org

www.gracechurchmora.org

www.facebook.com/gracechurchmora

The church has a AED

(defibrillator) located in the

East Narthex next to the

Library door.

Grace Lutheran

Church Hours:

Monday—Thursday

8 am to 4:00 pm

Friday— 8 am to Noon

Phone: 320-679-1062

** Upcoming Events **

Dec. 3rd Christmas program practice during and after Sunday School – done by 11:30

Dec. 3rd Soul Searchers Vikings game and Cookie making 12-3

Dec. 3rd Synod Journey make up bible study 3:30-4:30 (after Vikings game/cookie making )

Dec. 5th Christmas Tea 7:30 – A couple youth are hosting a table so let Kelly know if you are interested in attending!

Dec. 6th Release Time—drop off at Grace by 8 am

Dec 10th – Sunday School Christmas Program at 9:30 Service – Please have kids here by 9 !

Dec. 10th Synod Journey Bible Study After 9:30 service, 10:45-11:45

Dec.13th all ages Caroling meet at church 4:45, return by 6:30

Dec. 17th Grace Lutheran Choir Christmas Concert 8am and 9:30 Services. Christmas movie and goodies for Sunday School!

Dec 24th Christmas Eve Candlelight Communion service at 4 pm in Family Life Center

Dec 24th Christmas Eve Candlelight Communion Service at 10 pm in Sanctuary

Pastor Paul’s Message … What are you hoping to find?

Joseph went to be registered with Mary, to whom he was engaged and who was expecting a child. (Luke 2:5)

People return home during the Christmas season for many reasons, looking for many things. Some look to connect with friends who they haven’t seen for years. Some look for familiar landmarks in the landscape of their lives: an school building from which they graduate, or a theater where they saw that movie with a special someone, a restaurant at which friends would gather for food and conversation after school. Some are looking to worship again in the congregation where they were baptized, confirmed, married, where their faith was nurtured. Some are looking to simply reconnect to family, to hear stories old and new, to engage in the traditions that, over the years, are the things that become Christmas for them, for their family.

On the first Christmas, Joseph returns to Bethlehem, his home. He is newly engaged to Mary, and can’t wait to introduce her to his family and friends. But this is not why he returns to Bethlehem. He returns because, with Mary, he needs to be registered, so Joseph, Mary, and the child they will soon welcome into the world can be taxed.

This is what they are looking for, what they expect.

This is not what they find.

Who could imagine they would find themselves sleeping in a barn and not in the inn? Who could imagine Mary would give birth to her child there, and that he would sleep in a manger, of all places? Who could imagine that instead of first introducing the child to family and friends, the audience that surrounded them were animals?

Who could imagine that their child, Jesus, would eventually save the world by his love?

No one could imagine it; although they had heard rumblings about it for centuries, their eyes grew dim in their waiting, watching, hoping. They began looking for something else.

In the season of Advent that makes the way for the love of God and Jesus to be born among us at Christmas, we wait, watch, and hope for many things. Maybe our eyes and hearts have grown weary, wondering if God knows the things we hope to find. Or, maybe our eyes are dilated, unsure of where to focus our hope, our looking. Maybe we don’t know what we hope to find in this season, in our lives.

As we wait, watch, and hope, Jesus, God with us, comes to us, and promises to walk alongside us in our search, in our waiting and watching. Jesus is with us, is for us, won’t let us go

8:00 am

Dec 3rd Greeters: Paul & Jill Kent

Ushers: Greg & Jane Myers Lector: Greg Myers

Psalmist: Acolytes: Sam Udstuen & Noah Klapmeier Communion Assistants: Jill Kent

Dec 10th

Greeters: Kathy Hovland Ushers: Pat Meyer & Pat Weiss-Meyer

Lector: Kathy Hovland Psalmist: Acolytes: Lauren Berry & Sophie Steffen

Dec 17th

Greeters: Randy & Kris Johnson Ushers: Glen & Carol Allman

Lector: Roger Peterson Psalmist: Acolytes: Noah Blegen & Ryan Hawkins

Dec 31st Greeters: Eunice Weckwerth

Ushers: Gene Weckwerth & Arnie Barabash Lector: Gene Weckwerth Psalmist:

Acolytes: Emmie Otto & Anna Kehr

Jan 7th Greeter: Kathy Anderson

Ushers: Kyle & Andrea Hams Lector: Judy Roeschlein Psalmist: Roya Brown

Acolytes: Katie Wicklund & Roya Brown Communion Assistants: Barb Ennis

Jan 14

Greeter: Bob & Sue Oehrlein Ushers: Bonnie Boyer & Shari Winters Lector: Sue Oehrlein

Psalmist: Max Sampson Acolytes: Jack Sampson & Max Sampson

9:30 am Dec 3rd Greeters: Curt & Cindy Danielson Ushers: Barb & Kevin Herwig Lector: Barb Herwig Psalmist: Acolytes: Carson Falk & Zach Girard Communion Assistants: Craig & Jodi Schultz, Ray & Diane Knutson, Gail Lange Dec 10th Greeters: David & Chloe Kottke Ushers: Art & Luette Kottke Lector: David Kottke Psalmist: Chloe Kottke Acolytes: Eva Holmgren & Molly Holmgren Dec 17th Greeters: Deb Funk Ushers: Dan Funk & Gerald Funk Lector: Matt Felger Psalmist: Mikala Peterson Acolytes: Sage Lukenbill & Mikala Peterson Dec 24th 4:00 pm Greeter/Usher: Don & Mary Olson Lector: Mary Olson Psalmist: Saul Thomson Acolytes: Tommy Mulford & Jakob Felger Communion Assistants: Kristin & Kinzie Nelson, Joe, Julie, & Ben Mulford, Matt & Amanda Felger, Jason & Jessica Thomson & family, Jaci Boxrud 10:00pm Greeter/Usher: Doyle & Vicki Jelsing Lector: Doyle Jelsing Psalmist: Valerie Horning Acolytes: Valerie Horning Communion Assistant: Leah Smith Dec 31st Greeters: Jeremy & Beth Schultz Ushers: Harry & Robin Blegen Lector: Lucille Schultz Psalmist: Acolytes: Kayla Jensen & Jens Jensen Jan 7th Jan 14th Greeters: BJ & Mary Nordenstrom Ushers: Adam & Sara Nordenstrom Lector: Kris Pulford Psalmist: Tavyen Peterson Acolytes: Ben Nordenstrom & Haley Nordenstrom Communion Assistants: Mary Nordenstrom, Kris Pulford, Keith & Stephanie Girard Jan 14 Greeters: Sage, Madison, & Sara Wren Ushers: Lisa & James Wren Lector: Teri Heggernes Psalmist: Josh Heggernes Acolytes: Ty Graves & Owen Marohn

The deadline for the January 201 newsletter is Dec 20th at NOON.

Texting/Email Alert!

JUST A REMINDER~ for members to give the church office their cell phone number when they no longer have a land line. Or if you just get a new number

please let us know. Any new emails would also be nice. Thank You

MEALS ON WHEELS DRIVERS

Please be there at 10:45 to pick up the meals.

Dec 14 Don & Dave Franko & FCB

Dec 15 Don & Dave Franko &

Dwayne & Wanda Lamprecht

COFFEE SERVING TIME: Coffee will be served be-

tween the services and after the 9:30 service. Please

be at the church by 8:15 to get the coffee started and

things set up. Please keep this copy, we will list your

name in the bulletin the week before you are to serve.

COFFEE AND COOKIE SERVERS

Attention Servers: Please bring 8 dozen

goodies each to share. Thank you for your help!

Dec 3 Harry & Robin Blegen,

Keith & Stephanie Girard

Dec 10 Vonnie Olson & Cherrie Olson,

Kam Schroeder

Dec 17 Lisa Wren & girls

Dec 24 Merry Christmas!

Dec 31 Happy New Year! Cookie Potluck

If you change with someone, please

notify the church office.

5th Wheels on the Go is a group for singles for whatever reason (never married, divorced,

widowed) and married people whose spouse is unable to go places with them. Our goal is

simply to go places and have fun. Contact Kathy Hovland at 679-2076 or Barb Maul at

320-679-5290 if you have questions or would like to attend. We will need to know if you

plan on attending at least 4 days in advance so we can make sure we have ample transpor-

tation. You need to call us. We will not be calling you to find out.

On behalf of the Personnel Committee, Betty Smith, Paul Kent and Lynn

Paulson, we would like to thank Sharron Ahonen and Rich Rasmusson for

their many years of service on the Personnel Committee. At the same time,

we would also like to welcome Mary Nordenstrom and Greg Myers to the

committee. Thank you to those going off and thank you to those coming on.

Grace Lutheran Church Council Information— October 11, 2017 Meeting

Members Present: Roger Peterson, Kristin Nelson, Kelly Kehr, Addie Hawkins, Jessica Thomson, Marlene Marohn, and Pastor Paul. Absent: Laura Strand, Sarah Berry, and Harry Blegen The meeting was called to order at 5:35. Devotions were read by Kelly. Places Council members have seen Jesus have been in timely sermons, in tears of joy and pain, and in the unexpected help of strangers. Agenda: The agenda was approved with the addition of Mary Brelie speaking on behalf of Social Justice and Galen Brelie on behalf of Property.

Mary Brelie came to Council for approval to continue with the Noisy Offering. Mary shared a brief history of the Noisy Offering. It began in December 2011 to get away from continually asking for money for social justice issues. The first of-fering was collected in February 2012 and the offering totaled $163.00. In previous years, it has raised just under $3000.00 per year. So far, this year, the Noisy Offering has raised $3999.00. The offering benefits local organizations such as, the food pantry, Soup for the Soul, Food for Friends, Crisis Pregnancy Center, the Crop Walk, Relay for Life, Emergency Care Kits, Foster kid bags, and Fostering Families. Jessica suggested that Noisy Offering be taken before Sunday School kids go downstairs as this is a fun part of the service for them. Mary will speak to worship about the placement in the services. Kelly made a motion to reaffirm the Noisy Offering and Jessica seconded the motion. Carried.

Galen Brelie met with Council to discuss shelving in Pastor Paul’s office. Property received a proposal from Doug Lodin for $2511.00, including delivery and installation. Memorials and Gifts will pay half the cost, and the other half is being paid by private donors. Pastor Paul’s bookshelves will match the shelving in the library. It will be completed in six to eight weeks. Addie made a motion to approve the bookshelf project. Kelly seconded the motion. Carried.

Senior Pastor’s Report: Pastor Paul and Staff are reading “Canoeing the Mountains: Christian Leadership in Uncharted Ter-ritory” by Tod Bolsinger. Together they are reading a chapter, every other week. This book addresses what the Church is experiencing all over, not just in Mora. The goal of the book is to help congregations and leaders to reorient their leader-ship, ministry, and mission to the new reality facing the Church. The reality is that there are more open churches than pas-tors. This will have an impact on the future of the Church. Pastor Paul suggested that Council reads this book as well.

Pastor Paul shared his appreciation for staff and all they do. He is working with Personnel on the clarification of his role as Senior Pastor, and he feels it is important that Council is in the conversation as well.

Handicapped parking needs to be addressed. It is important that those who need this can access it. Jessica brought up the need to re-stripe the access between the two spots on the west side of the Church. Property will be contacted about the strip-ing.

Visitation Pastor’s Report: Pastor Cindy is undergoing a medical issue. She may need several weeks for recovery. Pastor Paul will ask Leah for a list of congregation members who may be able to some visiting in her absence.

Children, Youth and Family Report: September has been busy but good. It was a good start to the Synod Journey kick off. Kelly shared that she would like to keep the role of Sunday School Coordinator as a separate position from Children, Youth and Family Ministry. She will remain in the Sunday School Coordinator position for the time being. In the future, she would like to see this as a two –year term position. Jessica made a motion to keep the Sunday School Coordinator position as a line item in the budget and for Kelly to keep the position for the time being. Marlene seconded the motion. Carried.

Kelly discussed interest in considering what Camp Onomia has to offer. It is part of our Synod and located in Onamia. There are winter activities offered there that may be beneficial for our youth. The congregational commitment to Luther Point is $2.00 per member. Kelly will be looking into the congregational commitment for Camp Onomia. This will be add-ed to next month’s agenda.

Approval of Meeting Minutes: Jessica made a motion to approve the September meeting minutes. Kelly seconded the mo-tion. Carried.

Treasurer’s Report: Giving is down. There was no increase for September despite the increase in attendance. Kelly shared how electronic giving has been beneficial for her. A Stewardship idea was shared by Pastor Paul. He discussed the need for members to look at the bigger picture and answer the question, “Why Grace?” This would entail asking members to answer the question of why Grace Lutheran is important to them, by sharing a very short personal story. There responses would be taped and put together to be shared on Sunday mornings. Kids could be involved also by sharing at release time. Addie agreed to help with this project. The goal would be to have this project together by November 19th for Discipleship Sunday or early December. Jessica made a motion to approve the Treasurer’s report. Marlene seconded the motion. Carried.

President: Roger Peterson

Vice President: Laura Strand

Secretary: Marleen Marohn

Treasurer: Kristin Nelson

Harry Blegen, Addie Hawkins, Jessica Thomson, Mary Schwartz, Kelly Kehr, Sarah Berry

Social Justice Next Meeting: 8:00 a.m. - Monday, Dec. 10, 2017 Kris shared a devotion based on ways to help and support one another.

FOOD PANTRY: 314 families in October have shopped at the Food Pantry and plans are being finalized to seek a part time

director.

SOUP FOR THE SOUL: Kris wrote a grant for a freezer and they are awaiting news of acceptance by mid- December. Lots of

red tape and paper work are involved in all the grant-writing processes needed to help fund Soup. Preparations are being made

for a Christmas party for all guests.

NOISY OFFERING: In January of 2012, the Social Justice Ministry approached the church council for approval of a concept

we called Noisy Offering. The idea was to raise funds for non-profit causes in our community in a manner that would be easy

and fun. We asked those who would choose to participate to make noise with coins they might have in their pocket. The first

Noisy Offering was $163.00 for the Good Samaritan Fund, and in the first year $2,649.62 was raised! This year, through the

month of September, $3,999.75 has been raised! A few coins adds up quickly!

In October, we returned to the Church Council to seek their approval for the continuation of the monthly Noisy Offer-

ings. We received their approval and have moved ahead with our plan for 2018.

Grace is a very generous church family! We are so grateful for all the ways you share your time, talents and resources!

An updated list of charities with the write -ups for the bulletins have been prepared for 2018.

The Noisy Offering for November of $300.00 went to B.A.D.G.E.S. , an initiative of the Kanabec County Sheriff’s Depart-

ment. Our offering will be given to help support the toy drive at Christmas for families in need.

FOSTER KID/ BAGS/ EMERGENCY CARE KITS FOR HOMELESS TEENS & ADULTS 6 bags were given out in October

for a newborn and 5 children ranging in age from 9-14. More investigation is needed into the possibility of additional shelving

needs or relocation of the supplies needed for this initiative.

FAIR TRADE: Over$ 2000 worth of products were sold to support the work of global farmers and artisans at the Bazaar.

MISSIONS: Deb briefly shared an overview of her trip to Tanzania for the graduation of the first class of Maasai girls from the

Namnyaki school. Over 400 people attended this history- Through the kind and generous donations to the IMAGE Project,

students, staff, and guests experienced a moving celebration that lasted 8 hours! The students had prepared a several songs

with dance, and government officials pledged their support and protection for the Namnyaki girls. A catered meal, graduation

cakes, and dancing and singing into the night completed this amazing day of accomplishment and celebration.

WORLD HUNGER Kris will meet with Pastor Paul about the emphasis for the 2018 program..

Council Minutes Continued…

WELCA submitted a report and it was briefly discussed. Social Justice and Property each submitted a report.

Ministry Reports: Worship submitted a report. Christmas Eve falls on a Sunday this year. A motion was made by Wor-ship Committee to not have a Sunday morning service on Christmas Eve. Kelly seconded the motion. Carried. Services will be held at 4:00p.m. and 10:00p.m. on Christmas Eve.

Unfinished Business: a) Transportation: Kelly spoke with Calvary and they are willing to let the community use their van, pending their Council approval. They may have to supply the driver. Kelly requested it for FMSC. A dollar amount still needs to be discussed. b) KELCA: The next KELCA meeting is scheduled for October 17th at 7:00pm at Calvary. Steve Denzine is heading up the Community Thanksgiving dinner. Jessica will work on food preparation. Improvements to the community picnic were discussed. Looking at it from a fellowship standpoint was discussed. More advertising was suggested. c) Pastor Mike’s recommendations were tabled until November.

New Business: a) Mary Schwartz’s resignation: A motion was made by Kelly and seconded by Jessica to accept Mary’s resignation from Council. Carried. Council thanked Mary for her service. b) Nominating Committee: A group of five is needed for the Nominating Committee. Four people will be going off Council in January. Suggested names for the Nominating Committee. were provided. Members of Council will speak with these individuals before the next meeting.

Correspondence/Future Meeting Dates: The next meeting will take place on November 14th at 5:30 p.m. Jessica made

NOISY OFFERING UPDATE The following is a list of Noisy Offering non-profits for 2018 and a brief description of each. We encourage you to take some time to become familiar with each "cause" so you can make informed decisions about your level of support! Grace is a very generous church family! We are so grateful for all the ways you share your time, talents and resources! JANUARY: Good Samaritan Fund - helps people in the Mora area who suddenly find themselves needing a helping hand to get their lives back on track. The Ministerial Association made up of several local churches organizes this effort to provide vouchers and gift cards for assistance with bills, fuel and food. FEBRUARY: Emergency Care Kits - is an outreach program that helps the rising number of youth in Mora who need a helping hand. Personal hygiene items are collected and assembled in drawstring bags here at Grace. They are available for homeless and lower income youth in our community and distributed at the High School Food Pantry. MARCH: Mora Food Pantry seeks to provide an emergency source of food or individuals/families who meet the Federal income guidelines. An average of 300 families are served once a month. The Food Pantry is supported 100% by donations from individuals and organizations. APRIL: Foster Kid Bags - Kanabec County Family Services contacts the church office when a child needs to be removed from their current home and placed in a licensed Foster home. A supply of personal and age appropriate items are placed in a bag along with gift cards for the Foster Family to purchase other necessary supplies. MAY: Kick Cancer to the Curb - This organization, founded in 2012, seeks to help cancer patients in Kanabec County. Qualified individuals can receive up to $250.00 every 6 months to help with expenses for treatment, food for the family, and help with bills. JUNE: The Refuge - provides help for domestic abuse and violence victims and their families. Their services are free and confidential 24 hours a day. The emergency shelter/safe housing is accessible 24 hours a day with transportation. Assisted e toward self-sufficiency is offered as well as legal advocacy. Support groups are offered to help victims become empowered by gaining strength, understanding and healing JULY: FOSTERING FAMILIES - This is a new organization for us. It supports Foster Families by providing items they need in their homes for the Foster children. Fostering Families is also on Facebook where they can post requests for bigger items that might be needed (crib, bed, etc) to help the Foster Family. Foster Families in Kanabec County can access theses funds. AUGUST: Crisis Pregnancy Center - is a free and confidential service for women. They offer pregnancy testing, guidance and goal setting for parenting, referrals for medical, financial and educational needs, supplies, etc. SEPTEMBER: Crop Walk - This event is sponsored by Church World Services whose goal is to build a world where there is enough for all! Our local ecumenical event is a 3 mile walk to raise hunger awareness. 25% of the money raised remains with our local food shelves. OCTOBER: Food for Friends -is a food pantry that operates at Mora High School. They offer food to any student in need. They "specialize" in items that are easy to use/prepare/carry as many of the clients are homeless. NOVEMBER: B.A.D.G.E.S - Building Awareness to Develop, Grow and Educate our Society was created by a group of Kanabec County Sheriff's Office Employees. Their main objective is to give back to the community by providing training, education, and support to citizens and/or local charities. Among their initiatives is a toy program for needy kids at Christmas. This is where we are directing our contributions. DECEMBER: Soup for the Soul, Inc. provides a free nutritious meal for 80-100 guests every Monday from 4-6 p.m. at Emmanuel Baptist Church in Mora. Free rides are offered through Timber Trails Transat to anyone who needs it. The operation thrives through the generosity of donations and grants. Volunteers from the community commit their time to greet and serve the guests, work in the kitchen and clean up after the meal is served. Food is obtained through Second Harvest and us prepared b y a certified cook. Soup for the Soul, Inc. is a place where people come to be served and respected. When times are tough, we extend a helping hand to give people a boost in the challenging world.

Youth News

REMIND! Stay in the loop! “REMIND” is a great way to stay on top of all the Children, Youth and Family

things that are happening. SIGN UP TODAY! TEXT to 81010

Then enter the corresponding code for grade level/group

Celebration Singers @g3a8bc Synod Journey @hh732c

Sunday School - @gracesu Release Time - @gracerel

Soul Searchers (10th-12th) - @gracesou 7th grade - @66abhg

8th grade - @7thgrco 9th grade - @8thgrco

10th grade - @9thgrc 11th grade - @7622a

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Sunday School Grace Lutheran Sunday School Presents

On Sunday December 10th the Grace Lutheran Sunday School and

Celebration Singers will present the annual Christmas Program!

Plans are underway so be watching for more information about read-

ing parts and practice times!

NO SUNDAY SCHOOL December 25th, 31st

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Synod Jr. High Youth

Gathering ~

NOVEMBER 18-19

The group that attended

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ CAMP ONOMIA ~ ELEMENTARY WINTER CHILL RETREAT

3rd - 6th grade—January 26-28th Please see Children Youth and Family Board for more information

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Confirmation NO CONFIRMATION December 27th, January 3rd +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Soul Searchers December 3rd, Noon-3 pm

Grades 9-12 are invited for an afternoon of football and treats! Come make some goodies and watch the game! We will talk about and plan for future Soul Searcher events. Bring friends!!!

GRACE COUNTRY HARVEST FALL BAZAAR UPDATE

THE GRACE COUNTRY HARVEST FALL BAZAAR COMMITTEE would like to thank everyone who contributed to

this year’s bazaar. Once again the Grace Congregation came forward using the gifts and talents they have been given. God

truly blessed the day. At this time the financial report shows receipts of $16,977.35. There were 670 dozen cookies sold at

Cookie Lane and 835 pieces of lefse sold. Our 10 % donation to local charities was given to Mora Food Shelf and Soup for

the Soul. A truly amazing number is the unofficial total revenues raised in the 16 years of the Bazaar. That number is

$259,456.26! Praise be to God! 10% of that total has been given to local charities and the rest of it has gone to programs,

ministries and mortgage reduction here at Grace.

THANK YOU to all of the businesses and individuals who donated food, ingredients, money, or other items. THANK

YOU to all the willing workers who helped out in many ways before, during, or after the bazaar.

THANK YOU to the individuals who so willingly donated items for the Silent Auction:

Diane Blegen, a framed counted cross-stitch picture; Lucille Schultz, a framed flag picture; Gary Broehl, a western bench;

Morris and Lorna Eastlund, a Red Wing crock; Tom and Judy Roeschlein, ¼ beef; Peggy Voss, a stained glass hanging pic-

ture; Lynnae Christianson, a framed counted cross-stitch picture; Tom and Deanna Felger, a white pine bench; Marilyn Ni-

kodym, a framed counted cross-stitch picture; Gene and Eunice Weckwerth, a framed counted cross-stitch picture; John

Akkerman, a painted child’s rocking chair; and Rhonda Felland, a memory quilt.

THANK YOU to all the ladies who served on the Bazaar committee and chaired the various committees.

Chair- Sue Halsey Silent Auction-Carol Allman, Shari Salmonson

Gracemark- Betsy VanBurkleo Harvest Sweets- Bev Deis, Lynette Skolte

Garden of Grace-Judy Radeke, Sharon Holmstrom Lefse-Sue Halsey

Morning Coffee and Rolls –Amanda Felger, Kelly Kehr and Grace Youth

Pre and Post (set-up and take down) – Gail Lange, Jaci Boxrud

Publicity – Judy Radeke, Verona Gravich, Diane Runquist, Sharon Holmstrom

Apple Pies – Lydia Franko Grace Café –Vikki Fore,

Cash In The Box – Jill Kent Fair Trade Market– Barbara Orstad

Grandma’s Attic—Deb Hallin, Lesley Graham Sunday Morning Sales – Committee members

Treasurer-Bonnie Boyer Cookie Lane – Leah Smith, Melissa Weinreich

Quilt Shop– Mary Kobberdahl

THANK YOU to Matt Smith. The Bazaar ladies truly appreciate your cheerful attitude and your willingness to help. We

wouldn’t be able to set up or take down without you!

Thank you also to the confirmation students and parents who helped with the set-up, serving lunch, lefse making and take-

down and storing of all props and equipment. We really appreciate your help.

But most of all, THANK YOU to all who crafted such a variety of creative items, baked, canned or donated ingredients or

money. Countless hours were spent by so many people. The bazaar wouldn’t be possible without all of you. THANK

YOU to everyone who worked on bazaar day whether this was your sixteenth bazaar or your first. We hope it was a positive

experience for you.

To complement our Go Green theme, we are asking all people who bought canned items at the Harvest Sweets table to

please return your canning jars so that they can be recycled for next year’s Bazaar. If you have extra canning jars that you

no longer need, consider donating them to next year’s Bazaar. Please bring them to the Church kitchen. Also, if you pur-

chased a greenery arrangement, please return the containers to the church kitchen so that they may also be recycled next

year.

Next summer we will start planning for bazaar 2018, which will be the 17th Anniversary of the Fall Harvest Bazaar. We need

enthusiastic, willing individuals to work on the bazaar team. You do not have to be a crafter to help out, just a willing work-

er. If you are interested in getting involved, contact anyone on the bazaar team. You will be glad you got involved and

joined in the fun and fellowship.

As we approach winter and perhaps some quiet time, please consider working on some craft projects for next year’s Bazaar.

Thank you in advance.

Finance Ministry

Members: Doyle Jelsing, Roger Peterson, Bonnie Boyer, Kristin Nelson, Matt Felger

Thank you for your continued support of Grace Lutheran Church and all of the wonderful ministries!

October General Checkbook:

Mortgage:

Complete financial statements can be obtained in the church office or by contacting one of the finance ministry members.

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Scan to donate! Once

scanned, it will direct you to

a secure site.

If you don’t have the reader

app, the same destination is

on our website at the GIVE

NOW tab.

www.gracechurchmora.org

ARCHIVES COMMITTEE Do you have an interest in preserving the history of our church?

We are in need of people to organize this information that has been accumulating around the

church.

Contact the church office! Future generations will thank you!

If you would like to help or have photos you would like displayed on the archives computer,

An opportunity for Grace Thrivent members and associates and a Thank

You.

Check out the Thrivent table in the West Narthex for more information and suggestions for projects.

Thrivent Action Teams is a program for us to use Thrivent Dollars to help in our community in educational, service and

fundraiser projects. It is designed to help Thrivent members strengthen communities and help others to be wise with

money and live generously. Each member or associate can bring people together for a one-time project to help others.

Identify a need in our community, receive resource and put a plan together to take action. Thrivent provides $250.00 seed

money for approved projects. This would be a great way to work with ‘God’s Work, Our Hands’ with Thrivent helping

with the support for fundraisers, one-time service projects and educational events. See the Thrivent table in the West Nar-

thex, for more information

Your Grace Lutheran Advocates: Wendy Barnick, Rich Berry, Rollie Fredrickson, Diane Knutson, Ruth Mills, Barbara

Orstad, Betty Smith, and Leah Smith.

With your Choice Dollars: we just matched $1000.00 dollars for the Synod Journey BBQ fundraiser. Thank you for des-

ignation your Choice Dollars to Grace.

General Checkbook:

Beginning balance (9,617.36)

Donations 35,934.18

Expenses (33,999.91)

Ending balance (7,683.09)

First of month balance 94,361.10

monthly payment (1,683.02)

additional principal pmt (662.50)

End of month balance 92,015.58

Grace Lutheran Church Prayer Shawl Ministry:

The Prayer Shawl Ministry is open to all those who enjoy knitting or crocheting a shawl to be used as a comfort to those who are sad or suffering; or the shawl can also be used to encourage & support those who are experiencing life in other ways. We meet the 3rd Tuesday of each month at 10:00 a.m. in the

church's West Narthex (Garden Room).

Dianne Wachsmuth – contact person

Mark your Calendars!

The Christmas Tea will be

December 5th, 2017 at 7pm.

The theme this year is

“Come to the Manger”

Just a reminder, with church GEAR-ING UP FOR GOD we are still in need of SERVANTS at both worship services. Each and every one of us like to see different faces greeting, ushering, lecturing or serving com-munion. Unfortunately, as our serv-ants get busy or ask to be taken off the list there are few to replace them. If it is in your heart to be able to serve in one of these ways feel free to call the church office (679-1062), email Krista Elvehjem at krista@gracechurchmora.org

Members: Judy Radeke, Linda Johnson, Jacki Peterson, Dick Schultz,

Carol Allman, Todd Sjoberg, Rhonda Felland, Sharon Haggenmiller

Altar Guild Contact: Sharron Ahonen, 320-679-2898

January 2018: Mary Rowley and Andrea Hams

February: Dianne Wachsmuth and Mary Rowley March: Judy Roeschlein and Debbie Klapmeier

April: Kristin & Kinzie Nelson May: Melissa Weinreich and Judy Morgenweck

June: Matt & Leah Smith and Alexis Hughes July: Judy Roeschlein and Debbie Klapmeier

August: Kathy Hovland and Arlene Erickson September: Melissa Weinreich and Judy Morgenweck

October: Kristin and Kinzie Nelson November: Leah & Matt Smith and Alexis Hughes

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If you have an abundance of flowers that would make nice bou-

quets and would like to donate the arrangement for our altar

flowers, please let the church office know.

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Radio Our Sunday morning worship is on the air at KBEK 95.5 FM. Listen to the 8:00 AM worship service rebroadcast

at 10:00 am Sunday mornings. The service is also put on our website the following week.

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Choir Come join the GLC Choir when you can Wednesday’s at 6

pm. All are welcome!

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Come be a part of the CELEBRATION!

Celebration Singers meets Wednesdays at 5:15. We sing

once a month at both services. Please come join in the

fun! All youth preschool to 6th grade are welcome!

CHAT N’ CHOW~ We are looking for donations of 1 % milk and treats, banana bars, pumpkin bars, rice crispy bars, brownies or whatev-

er you feel like baking! Thank you everyone who supports Chat N’ Chow!!

Banner Ministry – ‘Expressing the Faith’ Contact: Barb Sjoberg January, February, March – April, May, June – Barb Sjoberg July, August, September – Sue Halsey Oct., Nov., Dec. – Sharon Holmstrom, Dar Wicklund

“May we shout for joy over your victory, and in the name of our God set up our banners.” Psalm 20:5a NSRV.

WE CELEBRATE MANY FESTIVALS OF THE CHURCH DURING THE MONTH OF DECEMBER.

ADVENT begins on the fourth Sunday before Christmas and ends on the day be-fore Christmas. Thus it begins on December 3rd and ends on December 24th at sundown – The Nativity of Our Lord.

The church year begins with Advent, a time of preparation. The word “Advent”

means, “coming”; the coming of the Lord in human form at Christmas, the coming of

the Lord in Word and in Spirit, the coming of the Lord in glory at the end of the age.

The Advent of Our Lord is the beginning of the church year, as Christians prepare for

both the birth of the Baby Jesus in Bethlehem and for the second coming of Jesus as the risen Christ to rule trium-

phantly over life in heaven and on earth. The most important thing Christians do during Advent is to prepare their

hearts as a welcome place for God.

Principal Themes - hope, darkness / light, repentance, watchfulness, preparation, expectation of the

incarnation of Christ on Christmas, anticipation of the fullness of time at Christ's second coming.

CHRISTMAS celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ, the incarnation of God. It is the shortest sea-son and lasts for 12 days, December 24th through January 5th, the eve of the Epiphany of our Lord. For that reason, this season is also known as the Twelve Days of Christmas.

Christmas is the season when we become a complete Christian family on earth, as God him-

self comes to earth in the form of a child. Christmas is a season of great joy: the child that God

promised would save the world from its sins was born on Christmas Day after hundreds of years of

waiting. Christmas is a special time to celebrate the love of God who came to earth as an infant to

live the complete life of a regular person, to be with us and to be one of us. It is a season of children,

celebrating new life and the hope of a Savior for the world.

Principal Themes – ● God's presence in human life ● God's love for all of creation ● Pas-

chal mystery of Christ's passion, death and resurrection

WHERE ARE WE IN THE CHURCH YEAR?

We’ll Celebrate Two Seasons During This Month,

The Advent Season and The Christmas Season

Advent – Year B : Dec. 3 – Dec. 24, 2017

“Advent” in Latin means: "to come” Christmas – Year B: Dec. 24 – Jan. 5, 2018

“Christmas” in Old English means: "The Mass of Christ"

Liturgical Colors This Month

Advent brings on the color blue, which will be used until -

The Nativity of Our Lord, which is Christmas Eve, Decem-

THE SEASON OF ADVENT Anticipation and Hope – Preparing for the Com-

ing of the Lord

Color of the Advent Season

Blue, suggesting hope - An older tradition uses purple, the royal color of the coming king.

THE SEASON OF CHRISTMAS Celebrating Nativity of Jesus Christ, the Incarna-tion of God

Color of the Christmas Season

White, a color associated with the festivals of Christ

and suggesting gladness, joy and the light of Christ.

“Will devote ourselves to prayer and to serving the word.” Acts 6:4b NRSV As Paul exhorts Timothy in 1Timothy 2:1 “I urge, then, first of all, that supplications, prayers, inter-cession and thanksgiving be made for everyone.” Our goal is to pray and petition on behalf of our church family needs, uplifting one another in prayer to the Lord.

PRAYER INFORMATION – One of the great privileges and ministries listed in the New Testament is the opportunity to remem-ber one another in prayer, to “bear one another’s burdens.” To help us in this ministry, Grace Lutheran offers a prayer chain to which specific prayers may be made. PRAYER IS ONE OF THE WAYS WE ARE ABLE TO RELATE DIRECTLY WITH GOD. A quiet moment of reflection. A talk with Jesus. A recited text celebrating faith. Though very different, all of these are valid definitions for "prayer." Prayer is an intentional and meaningful way that every individual — no matter of age, race or background — can deepen his or her personal relationship with God. — ELCA Prayer Center

DO YOU HAVE A PRAYER REQUEST? – If you have a prayer request, please contact the church office at: 320-679-1062 OR the Prayer Ministry Coordinator: Barb Sjoberg at: (H) 320-679-5373

BECOME A PRAYER VOLUNTEER – If you would like to be added to the email prayer chain, you can either email Barb or the church office. Barb Sjoberg encourager4him@hotmail.com Grace Lutheran church@gracechurchmora.org

DECEMBER PRAYER CONCERNSDECEMBER PRAYER CONCERNS:: With the whole people of God in Christ Jesus, let us pray for the church, those in need and all of God’s creation. Let us pray for those who suffer, that the sick may know God's healing, the tor-mented may know God's peace, and the despairing may know God's hope.

We especially lift up in prayer: Mark Antonson, MaryEtta Schwartz, Mary Larsson, Ky-

don Black, Mary Rowley, Ernie Capra, Christy Hanson, Bev Huebner, Earl Fredrickson,

Jeannie Fischer, Vern Stromberg, Sandee Otto, Deb Funk, Celina Murney, Donald All,

Bill Gotfredson, Irene Johnson, Becci Steffen, Derek Hughes, Douglas Olsen, Mindy

Johnson, Dawn Christen, Anita Guida, Ken Gardner, Sharron Ahonen, Rochelle De Bo-

er, Lee Svoboda, Debbie Gorham, Pam Mattson, Mark Nordeen, Renae Rowland, Phyl-

lis Ramsey and Jessica Jeffers.

Service Personnel: Pray for these military personnel and their families as they serve our country.

DECEMBER PRAYER PETITIONS:DECEMBER PRAYER PETITIONS: These petitions are offered as guides to prayer for the global, social and outreach ministries of the ELCA. Thank you for your continued prayers for the life and mission of this church.

† First Sunday of Advent – Pray to be alert in faith and life in grateful response for the gift of Jesus Christ breaking into the darkness of the world with love and mercy and for the promised return of our Lord.

† During this season of sharing gifts, pray we are mindful of and generous with our neighbors, especially those who live in poverty and hunger, immigrants and refugees, people who feel isolated and long for relationships and community, and families without homes or safe shelter.

† Pray for a spirit of peace to fill us and inspire our lives through knowing God is patient and forgiving with us and our salvation is certain through faith in Jesus Christ.

† With child-like anticipation and excitement, we tell and hear the Christmas story over and over again, sharing the news of the life-changing gift and impact of Jesus’ birth; we pray we are always open to this good news inspiring and reshaping our traditions, celebrations and consumer habits.

† Christmas Eve – As we remember and retell the story of the world anticipating the promised birth of Jesus, the true Messiah, pray we not take for granted the gifts we long for and have received in the son of God, our savior – forgiveness, hope and redemption.

† Christmas Day – On this great day, we give glory to God for the birth of Jesus, the incarnation of God among us, an undeserved gift bringing light to the darkness and life for all people.

† New Year’s Eve – Everywhere we turn and look we see the wondrous, amazing creative hand of God. Praise the Lord, and give thanks!

“But the angel said to them, Do not be afraid; for see—I am

bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: to you

is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Mes-

siah, the Lord.” † Luke 2: 10 – 12 NRSV

Library Ministry

Members: Kailey Berry, Sarah Berry, Penny Casavant, Lynnae Christianson, Jeanne Granlund, Sue Halsey,

Mary Lykins, Char Mayer, Ruth Mills, Jane Myers, Laura Strand, Jackie Thompson

“And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, full of grace and truth.” John 1:14

Mission Statement The Grace Lutheran Library Mission will support all the members of Grace using the library

resources to help them interpret what they read, hear, see and experience within the context of the Christian Gospel.

Library Updates A New Picture: Come into the library and check out the new picture on the wall. The print was purchased us-ing GLC Memorial Funds that had been designated for the library. Bob Oerhlein from the Oak Gallery in Mo-ra matted and framed the beautiful piece. Bruce and Jackie Thompson found just the right place to hang it the children’s area of the library. It is a wonderful addition to our library!

Christmas Books are out and on display on top of all the low books shelves in the library. Most of these books are short, easy to read, uplifting stories. Check some out!

Check out procedure: If you have never checked out a book from the church library, the process is pretty easy. There is an old fashioned “library card” in a pocket at the back of each book. Just put the date and your first & last name on the card. Then place the card in the wood box that is located under the window next to the door. That’s it. When you have completed the book – just bring it back and place it in the basket located under the window next to the door. DVD’s and CD’s can be check out in the same manner.

Just a note: Please do not take books out of the return basket until they have been re-carded and are back on the shelves. This helps us know where the books are – especially popular books that others are waiting to read. The books are usually re-shelved pretty promptly. There are usually library team members shelving books every Sunday morning. In addition, library team members also come in during the week and shelve any books in the basket.

Locations: DVD’s can be found on the shelves under the bulletin boards. CD’s are in a basket usually on the lower shelve of the Y section under the bulletin board. Children’s books are found beginning with the easiest picture books on the shelf under the new picture and then following around under the window. These books are labeled from “A” (easiest books) to “E” (books geared toward teens). The non-fiction books are on the shelves under the windows in the “adult” part of the library. These books vary in topic and include biog-raphies, religious commentary, social issues, educational materials, etc. The tall shelves contain fiction in al-phabetical order by author name. The exception to the alphabetical order is the “Love Finds You in….” books which are all on the top shelf behind the library work table. These Christian romance books are written by var-ious authors and are set in towns across the nation with interesting names – Frost, Minnesota; Holiday, Florida etc. Each book contains some history of the town – some have modern settings and some have historical set-tings. The other exception to alphabetical order are some Guidepost books (including Secrets of Mary’s Work-shop books and Tales from Grace Chapel Inn) which are shelved all together in the V part of the middle shelv-ing.

Devotional Book Exchange: There are Devotional Books on a spinner rack (which is usually located on top of the “Y” section of shelving in the center of the library) that you can take and utilize at any time. You do not have to check these books out of the library. If you have Devotional Books that you have completed, you are welcome to place those books on the spinner rack for others to use.

Some Clarification With Regard to Donating Books to the Library: In order to keep our library current, the library team will not access books that do not have a Copyright date of 2000 or later. If you believe that a book with an earlier Copyright date that you are considering donating to the library has historical or relevant value, please check with someone on the library team before donating. Thank you for your understanding.

Living Grace Library is open whenever the church is open. Come in any time.

Please remember to return your finished books. The book you may have forgotten to return may be just the book

someone else is patiently waiting to read. Thank you.

A NOTE TO GLC MINISTRIES AS YOU HAVE YOUR MONTHLY MEETINGS:

Please be sure to get your minutes in to the church office after your

meeting so copies can be distributed to our Council members at their

monthly Council Meeting. This should aid in communications on what

is happening in this busy Church.

From Farmer to You

Lutheran World Relief (LWR) Farmers Market Coffee is sourced directly from coffee farmers participating in LWR projects. Every delicious cup helps transform poor communities that depend on their coffee crop to feed their families. Farmers get a strong up-front price for their coffee beans and a portion of the profit. LWR Farmers

Market Coffee brings you closer to the people you help through your support of LWR. Because this coffee is sourced directly from LWR project participants, you will see the faces and learn the stories of the actual farmers who grow your coffee. And 80 cents of every pound you purchase goes back into LWR projects to benefit more around the world. The Grace Women of the ELCA years ago decided to purchase the coffee that is used at Grace from A Fair Trade organization called Equal Exchange. We have been enjoying their coffee and have made it available for you to purchase. The women have now found that LWR is now in the coffee business. We will be bringing this new coffee to you very soon. The Grace Women of the ELCA will continue to buy the coffee so our church will only use this coffee for all events. They also decided to go to a more earth friendly coffee cup so the Styrofoam will be not used at church after our current supply is gone. A dark roast Farmer’s coffee is available in our Coffee/Chocolate market place by the office. ___________________________________________________________________________

Thank you so much for your support of these Fair Trade organizations at the Grace Fall Harvest Bazaar!

With your generous purchased of over 2,000.00 we were able to help these creative artists around the world to a better life.

We do have items available in our glass Fair Trade case by the office, ask Leah if you would like to purchase an item. There are also catalogs available. You can also order from their web sites. SERRV.org and globalmamas.org

Thank you for thinking and purchasing globally. __________________________________________________________________________

Ruth Mills 1

Keith Girard 1

Oliver Schultz 3

Richard Reynolds 4

Brady Strand 4

Alex Johnson 4

Bret Wachsmuth 6

Thomas Larson 7

Bryce Ellingson 7

Gail Lange 8

Cheerie Olson 10

Brianna Kapinos 10

Noah* Klapmeier 10

Melissa Peterson 11

Stella Denzine 11

Roger Grams 12

Marilyn Crow 12

Ruth Mattison 13

Drew Elvehjem 13

Joseph Mulford 14

Thomas Wachsmuth 14

Madalynn

Emslander 14

Harold Blegen 15

Brian G Anderson 15

Noah Donaghue 15

Vicky Semelhack 16

Beverly Fore 17

Richard Klepsa 17

Mikala Peterson 17

Jane Olson 17

Thomas Wachsmuth 18

Jens Jensen 18

Rodney Knudsen 19

Judith Bergstadt 20

Renee Unger 20

Molly Lukenbill 20

Reese Graves 20

Robert Bergstadt 21

Noelle Elvehjem 23

Finn Schultz 23

Enoch Chromey 24

Tricia Otto 25

Ray Knutson 26

Sheri Strickland 27

Kris Johnson 27

David Ulstrom 29

Lauren Berry 29

Jaxon Norton 29

The Milestones Ministry seeks to RECOGNIZE, RESPOND, and REACH OUT in celebration of the milestones of our Faith Journeys

God comes into our world and graciously claims us for the Kingdom of God. This great event is often under-used in our life. Those baptized into new life by God’s Word and water will be invited to gather around the Baptismal font to celebrate this great

gift of God. Following is a list of members that were baptized this month.

Anderson, Luke

Bergstadt, Judith

Berry, Matthew

Brelie, Galen

Christianson, Ordean

Douglas, Ayva

Ellingson, Bryce

Erickson, Alyssa

Erickson, Kelly

Funk, Jonathon

Gorham, Deb

Grams, Roger

Hallauer, Pam

Hallstrom, Carol

Halvorson, Ava

Hams, Kyle

Hawkins, Addison

Hawkins, Ryan

Holmgren, Sarah

Janousek, Sherry

Kapinos, Kelsey

Knudsen, Zoe

Kritzeck, Faye

Lamp, Diane

Limanen, Lauren

Lobdell, Glenn

Lykins, Ronald

McGovern, Charles

Menk, Ross

Nelson, Mackinzie

Nikodym, Jenna

Nordeen, Carol

Olen, William

Paulson, Lynn

Peterson, Logan

Reynolds, Mary

Rippentrop, Doris

Roeschlein, Judy

Schultz, Deborah

Sjoberg, Jason

Sjoberg, Raylan

Sjoberg, Ryan

Steffen, Becci

Steffen, Coleton

Sundberg, Rita

Sundet, Corey

Thompson, Bruce

Unger, Christopher

Unger, Renee

Unger, Robert

Wachsmuth, Bryan

Wallace, Alyssa

Wedding Anniversaries 12/09/1995 Marohn, Eric & Marlene

12/10/1954 Nordeen, Vernon & Carol

12/10/1960 Larson, Richard & Dianne

12/13/1980 Greski, Jim & Jinx

12/15/1973 Olson, Don & Mary

12/17/1966 Skillicorn, John & JoAnne

12/20/1980 Jelsing, Doyle & Vicki

12/21/1963 Larson, Thomas & Marri

12/23/1958 Blaisdell, Ernest & Dolores

12/26/1991 Backlund, David & Deb

12/27/1958 Erickson, Richard & Arlene

12/28/1985 Johnstone, David & Pam

Baptismal Anniversaries

WORD LIST

Angels Candy Cane

Chestnuts Cookies

December Decorate

Frosty Fruitcake

Gifts Jesus

Jingle Joseph

Manager Mary

Nativity Noel

Ornaments

Peppermint

Reindeer

Shepherds

Sleigh

Snow

Snowman

Star

Stocking

Tree

Wisemen

Check out our website:

www.gracechurchmora.org

Find us on Facebook!

Facebook.com/gracechurchmora

301 E Forest Ave

Mora, MN 55051

church@gracechurchmora.org

Tel: 320-679-1062

G r a c e L u t h e r a n C hu r c h

SUNDAY, December 3—First Sunday in Advent 8:00 a.m. – Sanctuary Communion Worship 9:30 a.m. – FLC Communion Worship & Sunday School SUNDAY, December 10—Second Sunday in Advent Sunday School Christmas Program 8:00 a.m. – Sanctuary Worship 9:30 a.m. – Family Life Center Worship & Sunday School SUNDAY, December 17 - Third Sunday in Advent Choir Concert 8:00 a.m. – Sanctuary Communion Worship 9:30 a.m. – FLC Communion Worship & Sunday School SUNDAY, December 24—Fourth Sunday in Advent/Christmas Eve 4pm—Communion Candlelight Worship 10 pm—Communion Candlelight Worship in Sanctuary SUNDAY, December 31—First Sunday after Christmas 8:00 a.m. – Sanctuary Worship 9:30 a.m. – FLC Worship

“We will go as Spirit filled

disciples of Jesus Christ

committed to change the world

by God’s grace through

worship, education, mission

and ministry.”