insites the grove united methodist church · the grove’s summer opportunities! united methodist...
TRANSCRIPT
SCOUT SUNDAY
February 9
We honor Scouts in our faith community!
Scouts are encouraged to be ushers.
Scouts who received a
special award will be recognized.
Working on a faith requirement or award?
Pastor Kelly Lamon will work with you.
Girl Scout cookies served on a later date.
SUMMER SUNDAY
February 23
While it’s the coldest time in the year,
we will be celebrating summer.
Come make S’mores and learn about
The Grove’s summer opportunities!
UNITED METHODIST WOMEN
February 23
Faith In Action, Faithkeepers, and
Faithbuilders will highlight the
impressive work of the
United Methodist Women.
MISSION SUNDAY
2020 Being the Hope Campaign
March 15
Learn about the ministries we
supported in 2019, participate in fun
activities (such as packing hygiene kits,
face painting, a photo booth,) and
enjoy a delicious breakfast.
INSITES February 2020 The Grove United Methodist Church
TheGroveMN.church
Office@ Being
TheHope.org
651-738-0305 Ext. 111
Page 2
CAUCUS AND PRIMARY TRAINING SESSION The Grove Woodbury Campus
Sunday February 9, 1 pm
Did you know that this is the first Presidential Primary in MN since 1992?
Are we still having a Caucus and what for?
Attend an informational session co-sponsored by The Grove’s Sustainability Committee, the Woodbury
Cottage Grove Area League of Women Voters and Minnesota Interfaith Power and Light to hear all
about it.
The guest speaker will be Michael Wall, Voter Outreach Specialist from the Office of the Secretary of
State. Election year is here! This session is a way to be informed and involved. CENSUS information will
also be available.
Precinct caucuses will be held February 25, one week before the Presidential Primary on March 3. Learn
how to find your precinct caucus location, how to register, and participate with confidence. This event is
free and open to the public.
SUSTAINABILITY TEAM
Northern Shrike
Sunday, February 16, 1 pm Woodbury Campus
Please join the Sustainability Team on Sunday, February 16, at 1 pm to take part in the Great
Backyard Bird Count!
Launched in 1998 by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology and National Audubon Society, the Great
Backyard Bird Count was the first online citizen-science project to collect data on wild birds and to
display results in near real-time (gbbc.birdcount.org/about/).
We will count the birds of The Grove! All are welcome. It is well known that it is best to take part in
a citizen-science bird watching program by a warming fire, with hot chocolate, and smores. Dress
warm, bring your field glasses and friends, and join us for the Great Backyard Bird Count!
Page 3
HOPE FOR THE JOURNEY HOME Temporary Shelter for Homeless Families
March 1-7 & March 22-28
Can you imagine losing your job or being overwhelmed by medical bills and not being able to pay the rent?
Being evicted because your apartment has been condemned? Having a job but a broken down vehicle and
needing to choose paying the rent or fixing your car so you can go to work? Families staying at Hope for the
Journey Home have lived through all these experiences and more.
Hope for the Journey Home is a temporary shelter for homeless families located on the property of Guardian
Angels Catholic Church in Oakdale. It was founded in 2012 and provides rooms for up to seven families at a
time. While families work through the St. Andrews Community Resource Center in Mahtomedi to find
permanent housing and jobs, those who have jobs continue to work, and children are transported to their home
schools. Each day everyone returns to Hope for the Journey Home to relax, enjoy a healthy meal and a good
night’s sleep.
VOLUNTEERS ARE NEEDED AND THAT’S WHERE THE GROVE COMES IN. A staff member is present at the
shelter each day to provide orientation and direction until 9 pm but volunteers are needed to staff an afternoon
shift where they perform easy chores and serve dinner. (This shift has a flexible start time from 4-5:30 pm and
an end time of 8:15 pm). In addition, at least two volunteers stay overnight from 8 pm until 9:15 am, sleep in a
guest room, and serve a continental breakfast on weekdays and a heartier IHOP breakfast on the weekends.
BOTH individual volunteers and families are welcome to serve either shift.
The Grove is one of 30 partner churches and has committed to staffing for two weeks during the year as well as
providing financial assistance through Being the Hope. Our next week is March 1-7 and March 22-28. To sign
up or get more information, contact Pat Marzolf at [email protected]. Also, check out the Hope for the
Journey Home website at guardian-angels.org/hope/.
Page 4
A FREE NIGHT OF JAZZ
SHOOP IN CONCERT!!! Friday, February 7 at 7 pm The Grove United Methodist Church
7465 Steepleview Road, Woodbury MN 55125
Shoop is a Twin Cities
based vocal jazz
group that puts
new twTransfer and
New York Voicesists
on old standards
with a sound that’s
a nod to The
Manhattan .
Come warm up with some great jazz on a cold winter’s night.
The Shoop Vocalists
Page 5
[email protected], 651-738-0305, ext. 119 kids
Nicole Suyak Minister to Families with Children
Page 6
BAPTISM MILESTONE – 3RD
GRADE Milestone: Sunday, February 2, 11:45 am – 1:15 pm - Fellowship Hall
Blessing: Sunday, February 9 (9 am and 10:30 am service) - Worship Center
Please join us to learn more about this important sacrament in the lives of
Christian families. We will explore the biblical origins of baptism, how people are baptized in different ways, and
what our church believes and practices. This milestone is for 3rd graders and older children who have not
attended the baptism milestone. We do ask that each child be accompanied by at least one adult.
We will make a special baptism craft, have lunch, and even do a couple of science experiments!
For questions please contact Nicole Suyak.
Thank you to all of the
families who joined Pastor
Kelly and Nicole for our
2nd grade Bible Milestone.
Page 7
[email protected] or 651-738-0305, ext. 121 student
Amy Fuller Minister to Families with Students
2020 NIPPOLDT FAMILY EDUCATION SCHOLARSHIP
Introduction & Purpose Established in 2010, the Nippoldt Family Scholarship provides
financial assistance to young adults of The Grove United Methodist
Church for vocational, college and graduate studies.
Eligibility All applicants must meet the following eligibility requirements:
• Members and active constituents connected to The Grove
United Methodist Church
• Students up to 32 years of age
• Anticipated high school graduate, high school graduate, or has
earned a GED
The Nippoldt scholarship does not discriminate by age, race, color,
national origin, disability, creed, gender, or sexual orientation.
100 Points Based Selection Criteria
• Ministry participation - 26 points
• Financial need - 20 points
• Academic Ability - 20 points
• Short answer responses - 12 points
• Extracurricular involvement, service activities, and work -
10 points
• Two reference letters - 8 points
• Discretionary points given by selection team - 4 points
Application Procedures
• Applications are available
thegrovemn.church/ages-and-stages/
students and in the church office.
• All materials should be submitted
together to the Director of Student
Ministries of The Grove UMC.
Applications due by Monday,
March 16 at 5 pm to the church
office.
• Past applicants must submit a new
application, new references letters
and new short answers.
Submissions of past applications will
not be considered.
• Award recipients will be notified by
letter and/or called by
approximately May 15.
• Scholarship recipients will be
acknowledged in worship and
amounts disbursed in June. In the
past, scholarships have ranged from
$2,880 to $3,800.
ASH WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 26 7 pm, Woodbury Campus
Everyone is welcome to the Ash Wednesday service.
Communion and the mark of ashes will be available.
There will also be music and prayer stations.
6:30 pm - 6th-12th grade groups check in for a small group time in their spaces.
6:30 pm - All adults are welcome to gather for beverages in the commons.
7:00 pm - All gather for the service in the worship center.
Page 8
First Saturday of the month ~ 5-7 pm For Families with children 4th grade and younger Community building, social time and learning To sign up, go to Family Grove Gatherings folder at timetosignup.com/thegrovemnchurch/
DISCUSSION NIGHT WITH TACOS
Saturday, February 1, 5-7 pm @ Woodbury Campus
Bring a taco topping. Carey Erkel, former Minister to Families with Children and early
childhood teacher, will lead a discussion on parenting through love and logic. While the
parents learn, kids will play. Childcare provided after supper.
GROWNUP PLAYDATE
Saturday, March 7, 6-9 pm @ Venue TBD
An event just for grownups! Find your own sitter and meet up for bowling/laser tag/arcade
fun. Food can be purchased at venue.
MANAGING OUTSIDE INFLUENCES
WITH GOOD OLD CHURCH POTLUCK
Saturday, April 4, 5-7 pm @ Woodbury Campus
Bring a dish to share. After supper, the parents will learn while the kids play.
Childcare for kiddos provided after supper.
GAME NIGHT AND COOK OUT AT PASTOR KELLY’S
Saturday, May 2, 6-9ish pm @ Pastor Kelly’s House
An event just for grownups. Meet at Pastor Kelly’s with a side. Hopefully it’s nice enough to
grill out. Come and enjoy the Lamon/Christensen household’s collection of games, around
75 to choose from.
Page 9
SUNDAY WORSHIP – COTTAGE GROVE
February 2 — Communion and Potluck –
Lea Anna McGowan
February 9 — Ron Purcell
February 16 — Dick Hansen
February 23 — Reflections - OPEN
LEAD SUNDAY WORSHIP
Volunteer to provide a message or lead a service on
any Sunday morning. Contact Dawn Nippoldt at
651-271-1795 or at [email protected].
LUNCH AT NORTH POLE IN NEWPORT
Wednesday, February 12, North Pole (2nd Wed)
Good conversation, good people and good food.
Just come. Questions? Muriel Richardson at
[email protected] or at 651-459-2805.
COFFEE SALES - 3rd Sunday after the service
Fair trade coffee, K-cups, nuts, and chocolate! In
purchasing and using fair trade products, you are
supporting UMCOR’s Sustainable Agriculture and
Development Program.
SCRIPTURE READING & SOUP
Bible Study - Thursdays, 11:30 am - 12:45 pm
Come for a tasty soup lunch and great conversation!
Read through the Bible and develop spiritually as we
delve into each passage to learn about God’s nature,
what it means to be human, the relationship between
God and humans, and our relationship with and
responsibility to others.
SUNDAY WORSHIP AT COTTAGE GROVE The 9:30 am Sunday morning service at the Cottage Grove Campus provides lay-led services
which are creative and heartfelt. Services are designed and delivered by members of The Grove
community in a format that allows both the presenters and congregation to explore
their spiritual life more fully by being the BODY of Christ in a very real way.
TAI CHI EXERCISE PROGRAM
Thursdays, 1-1:45 pm, Fellowship Hall
Sue Madsen teaches Tai Chi at the Hastings
YMCA. Her program includes movements for
better balance and fall prevention using the
principles of Tai Chi. Contact Muriel
Richardson at [email protected].
BOX TOPS FOR EDUCATION &
INK CARTRIDGES
This effort supports Armstrong Elementary
School. Collection boxes at both campuses.
(Laser ink cartridges may be donated too.)
CRAFT FELLOWSHIP GROUP
Monday, February 24, 12-2 pm (4nd Monday)
A fun way to work on your craft project or
venture into a new one. Contact Royann at
651-459-1493 or at [email protected].
VOLUNTEER READERS NEEDED FOR
ARMSTRONG STUDENTS
Volunteers have the opportunity to spend time
helping Armstrong Elementary School primary
grade students. The commitment is usually one
hour per week; the schedule is very flexible. To
volunteer contact Paula Christensen at
A DRUM CIRCLE
1st & 3rd Friday of the month, 6:30-8:30 pm
For individuals and families living with Autism/
Aspergers, and for anyone with disabilities or social
challenges who likes music, rhythm and dance. Pizza
on the 3rd Friday at 6:30 pm. Questions? Contact
Dick Hansen at [email protected] or at
651-459-7802.
VISITATION TEAM
Congregational Care Ministers (CCMs)
Mon., February 3, 9:30-11 am, Rm. 207 (1st Mon.)
Congregational Care Ministers (CCMS) are lay
volunteers who are trained to listen and provide
emotional and spiritual support to others. CCMs
work alongside our pastors in providing care by:
• Visiting (hospital, homebound, care facility)
• Serving communion to members who can no
longer physically attend worship
• Providing a presence on Sunday mornings for
connection and prayer
• Telephoning persons in need of contact
• Following up on prayer requests
• Meeting one-on-one with persons needing a
listening ear, offering prayers and encouragement
• Offering support to grieving families
If you feel called to care for others as a CCM or if
you or someone you care about could benefit from a
visit or call from a CCM, please contact Carolyn
Winslow, Director of Caring Ministries, 651-738-
0305, ext. 129 or at [email protected]
HELPING HANDS TEAM
Through a carefully organized program, our hands
can extend the love of God by offering short-term
help to our church family members in need of
transportation (to church or medical appointments,
for example), meals (following surgery or during an
immediate crisis), grocery shopping, or assistance in
other tangible ways. If you feel called to care for
others in very practical and helpful ways or if you are
in need of such assistance, contact Liz Tracy at
GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP
Tuesday, February 18, 10 am
Gathering Rm. (3rd Tue)
Join this group if you have lost a loved one (spouse,
parent, sibling, child), or you are a caregiver and
would like to share your story or receive support
from others facing similar life changes. Contact Karen
Eilers at [email protected].
GRANDMOTHERS WITH CHALLENGES
Would you or someone you know benefit from a
support group for grandmothers? Grandmothers with
challenges are women who have unique
responsibilities in the grandmother role. Contact
Caroline King at [email protected] or Dan
Wetterstrom [email protected] to
find out if this group is for you.
KETTLEBELL EXERCISE CLASS
Mondays & Wednesdays, 5:25-6 pm, Atrium
This class is for those who want a higher level class of
aerobic and strength building. Kettlebell exercise
develops flexibility, coordination and endurance.
Meet John Schultz, a certified Kettlebell instructor
(KBC) $5/class. Questions? Contact John Schultz at
FRIDAY BRUNCH - Memory Loss Social
Friday, February 14, 10 am-12 pm (2nd Friday)
Friday Brunch is a ministry for people in our
congregation who have memory loss. Participants
gather at The Grove for two hours to enjoy food,
fellowship, music and socialization. Our Grove
preschoolers join the fun. Jane Beckstrom will send
invitations to join this group.
Volunteer: Consider joining other volunteers who
enjoy socializing with preschoolers and participants
with dementia. Lots of fun!
Page 10
[email protected], 651-738-0305, ext. 129 - Upstairs Office 205
Carolyn Winslow Director of Caring Ministries
Page 11
CARE CORNER
Medical
Equipment
Available to
Borrow
The following items are currently in storage at
The Grove and are available for loaning out to
people needing such items on a temporary basis:
• Crutches
• Knee scooter
• Shower chair
• Walkers
• Wheelchair
Contact Carolyn Winslow
([email protected]) for more information.
A Community Resource
FAMILY MEANS Headquartered in Stillwater, Family Means
(www.FamilyMeans.org) has been a nonprofit
resource in our community since 1963. Family
Means is available to help individuals, couples
and families through challenges in all life stages.
Therapists and other professionals are available to
assist with:
• Caregiving & Aging concerns
• Counseling and Therapy (from anxiety
and depression to supporting a child
through divorce)
• Financial Counseling
• Grief & Loss
Brochures with more information are available
from The Grove’s Caring Ministries Board
(located in the hallway to the education wing).
Family Means will have an information table at a
“Healthy Brain” presentation, upcoming at The
Grove on Thursday, April 16, 6:30-8:30 pm.
More information to follow.
The Grove United Methodist Church in
partnership with Good in the Hood supports a
Weekend Pack Program for the South
Washington County School District. This initiative
provides easy-to-prepare food for students that
have indicated a need for a bit of extra help with
meals at home on weekends.
Each week students receive bags containing
nonperishable food subsidies to eat during the
weekend. Each weekend pack has two breakfast,
lunch, dinner, and snack items.
Volunteers pick up the weekend packs stored at
The Grove's Woodbury campus and deliver them
to Royal Oaks between 8 and 10 am (across the
parking lot from our Woodbury church campus)
and Armstrong Elementary school between
8:45 and 11am (behind our Cottage Grove
church campus).
The packs are usually delivered every Friday
morning during the school year. There are a few
other weekday morning dates due to school breaks
and holidays.
Please be aware that when you drop off packs at
the school, you must pick up the previous week's
empty containers and bring them back to the
church closet prior to the next delivery date.
You can sign up online for individual dates
and school locations at the following link
ttsu.me/weekendpack
Please email Delores Hedrick at
if you have any questions.
Page 12
WEDNESDAY MORNING BIBLE STUDY
Wednesdays, 9:30-11 am, Rm. 207
This study will grow and nurture your spirituality by
blending the study of Scripture and books about
Christian faith. Contact Pastor Dan Wetterstrom at
FAITHBUILDERS - Book Study for Women
Wednesdays, 10-11:30 am, Rm. 201
The group is finishing up Acts of Faith – The Story
of an American Muslim Struggle for the Soul of a
Generation by Eboo Patel. Next book is Life of the Beloved by Henri Nouwen. Questions? Contact
Jan Slagter at [email protected] or
651-739-7719.
READERS BOOK CLUB
Monday, February 10, 7-8:30 pm, Gathering Rm.
The group will be discussing in February the book
Then She Was Gone by Lisa Jewel. In March, the
book will be Educated by Tara Westover.
Questions? Contact Darlene Wetterstrom at
GROWING IN FAITH - Book Study
Fridays, 10-11:30 am, Lunds & Byerlys
The group meets in the community room at Lunds
& Byerlys. Join this welcoming group. For more
information contact Betty Schilling @ 612-741-5885
FAITHKEEPERS - United Methodist Women
Tuesday, February 11, 9:30-11:30 pm
Gathering Rm.
This group raises funds for the betterment of
women, children, and youth everywhere. They
work together with Faith In Action and
Faithbuilders to promote UMW and what it stands
for. All women are welcome. Contact Jackie Easton
Faith In Action
FEED MY STARVING CHILDREN (FMSC)
Saturday, March 7, 8 am carpool
In March, this group will go pack nutritional meals at
FMSC. Gather to carpool from the Woodbury campus
at 8 am and the group will be back by noon. Send Jean
Roemer an email at [email protected] to let her
know you are coming.
WEDNESDAY MORNING MEN’S GROUP
2nd & 4th Wednesday, 7-8am, Rm. 205
Engage in spirited conversation about the Bible,
faith, and everyday life. Contact Dick Larkin at
[email protected] or 651-735-5894.
THURSDAY MORNING MEN’S GROUP
Thursdays, 7-8 am, Rm. 201
Join a group of guys who like to laugh and have a good
time. Through reading, participants explore who they
are and how God is impacting their lives. Contact Lee
Slagter at [email protected].
COMPASSION AND JUSTICE TEAM
Monday, February 10, Rm. 201 (regularly 1st Mon)
The team builds community connections with
organizations focused on compassion and justice.
Through ongoing support, this team distributes
resources to partner organizations and educates the
church about the work of our community connections.
Questions? Jeanne Wadd at [email protected].
CONNECT & GROW MEMBERSHIP CLASS
Sunday, February 9, 3:30-5 pm
Gathering Rm. - Childcare provided Learn about our congregation, its ministries, its
values, and the meaning of membership. Find
opportunities to grow through study, service, and
fellowship. If you plan to attend please contact
Pastor Dan at 651-738-0305, ext. 113 or at
FAIR TRADE COFFEE
Sunday, February 16, 10 am-12 pm (3rd Sunday)
Fair trade coffee and other products will be on sale.
In purchasing and using fair trade products, we are
supporting UMCOR’s Sustainable Agriculture and
Development Program.
RED CROSS BLOOD DRIVE
Friday, February 7, 12-6 pm, Fellowship Hall
Donate blood and give the gift of life or volunteer to
be a hostess. To schedule an appointment, call the
Red Cross at 651-291-4607. Walk-ins are welcome!
Volunteer to staff the sign up table or the snack table
shifts 12-3 pm or 3-6 pm. Contact Jan Slagter at
[email protected] or at 651-739-7719.
SPONSORING WOODBURY COFFEE TIME
SIGN UP at https://ttsu.me/coffeetime or
email Sadie-jo Kobussen at
Sunday morning Coffee Time sponsorships at the
Woodbury campus are a very welcoming gesture to
our visitors. Good news: our attendance is increasing,
and we need more coffee, coffee supplies, and
donuts. Sponsorship of a Sunday morning coffee and
donut time is $100. Thank you for your support, and
thank you for sharing with us a special moment,
occasion, or just the joy of sharing a cup of coffee
and a donut with others on Sunday morning.
In the Know - - - News You Need about Your Church!
STEEPLEBELLS—NEEDS RINGERS!
Tuesday Rehearsals, 6:30-8 pm, Music Rm
Ring at 9 am service on the 4th Sunday of the month
Do you love the beautiful music of the handbells?
The tradition of ringing church bells dates back to
400 A.D. and in modern times signifies the time for
worship or prayer. To keep this tradition alive at
The Grove, the ringers of Steeple Bells are
currently looking for additional members to make a
"joyful noise" the 4th Sunday of each month. Contact
Jan Rasmussen at [email protected].
SUSTAINABILITY COMMITTEE
The Grove Sustainability Committee has a
Facebook group for Facebook users interested in
sustainability and environmental issues. Group
members can find information on the committee’s
activities, tips for living sustainably, area
environmental news and events, and hopeful news
on the future of our planet. Check our link and
invite friends to join. The link is https://
www.facebook.com/groups/2326043544153700/
or search The Grove UMC Sustainability
Committee Group.
Creation Station is
colleting plastic
milk gallons.
Please rinse and
place cap on and
drop off in the
Collection Area in
the Plaza.
Thank you!
Page 13
Page 14
The Little Snowplow by Lora Koehler
Being little doesn't mean you can't be helpful! On the Mighty Mountain Road
Crew all the trucks are BIG. Then along come a little snow plow. He does little
jobs until it was nearly winter. He practices back and forth, up and down, trying
to be stronger, but the BIG plows always tease him. Snow comes. An avalanche
partially buries one of the BIG trucks. With much hard work, the little plow
saves the BIG truck. "Great job", the BIG trucks shouts. Enjoy the great
illustrations. Reviewed by Jackie Easton
THE LITTLE FREE LIBRARY is on Steepleview Road in
the Woodbury Grove, near the pre-school
playground. Please feel free to walk up to this little
library to find a book that interests you or to leave a
book that you've enjoyed and now want to pass on to
the next person.
Book Donations
Donations to the church library are
always welcomed. Find the crate
upstairs in the library to put the
books. Thank you for your help.
Raymie Nightingale by Kate DiCamillo
This is the tale about three girls who form friendships that change their lives forever.
Raymie decides to enter a competition in Central Florida because she feels this will
make her father come back after he left only a few days ago. She meets Beverly and
Louisiana and learns to twirl a baton, as well as do many good deeds with these new
friends. As the competition gets closer the girls experience lonely times and unanswered
questions, but their friendship grows as they work together. A good story for middle
schoolers and anyone that enjoys books about friendships.
Review by Bonnie Rohde
The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind by William Kamkwamba and Bryan Mealer
William Kamkwamba was born in Malawi, a land plagued by drought and hunger. He
read about windmills and dreamed about bringing electricity and running water to his
small village with scrap metal, tractor parts, and some bicycle halves. He made a
contraption and a miracle happened. William’s invention for his community helped
make lives better for those around him. Read the story of a real life miracle.
Review by Bonnie Rohde
Page 15
THE FOLLOWING ARE THE RESPONSES GENERATED FROM THE QUESTIONS FROM THE
JANUARY 19 TOWN HALL MEETING:
The Cottage Grove
Planting Project Questions
Why are you taking on this project? This project is
rooted in our mission to make disciples of Jesus Christ
for transformation of the world. We do that through
welcoming, celebrating, and encouraging all people.
Driven by our mission, the church is renewing worship
and programming at Cottage Grove so we can
welcome and engage more people in one of the most
rapidly growing areas in the state.
What evidence is there that Cottage Grove needs a
new church? The MN Annual Conference has
identified Cottage Grove as a high potential area for a
new ministry for several reasons: First, Cottage Grove
is expected to grow by 20% over the next 20 years.
Second, research indicates that most communities can
support one church for every one thousand residents.
Cottage Grove has a population of about 37,000
people but only 13 churches. Third, about 57% of
current Cottage Grove residents have no connection to
a church.
Why was the decision made to use the Cottage Grove
building? The building is about twenty years old and
well-maintained. The building is large enough to
accommodate more people, yet it is small enough to
grow something new without feeling empty. The
location, just off the second busiest intersection in the
city, is near business development, and next to
Armstrong Elementary. The open space on the
property offers opportunities for potential community
engagement like Skoolie, a community garden,
outdoor concerts, and much more.
What will the new church be like? The vision
statement of the church plant is the following:
Growing vibrant faith in families. We welcome,
celebrate, and encourage people in the way of Jesus by
building meaningful relationships, nurturing goodness
in kids, and contributing to the well-being of our
community. The strategies to meet that vision are
modern band-led worship, shared-interest and life-
stage small group discipleship, and community-based
missional engagement.
How long will the conference provide financial
support? What is the source of the plant funding?
The Minnesota Conference is dedicated to the
birth and long-term sustainability of new
worshipping communities. As such, they commit to
financial support for a minimum of three years. At
that point, they will reassess what — if any —
continuing support is necessary to move the new
church towards sustainability. These funds come
from a campaign called Reach-Renew-Rejoice,
through which special funds were raised for this
work.
Why did we stop supplying a pastor for the Cottage
Grove campus? Is the Cottage Grove site self-
supporting from a financial perspective? The
Cottage Grove location has struggled with
sustainability, currently worshipping about 30
people. Multiple efforts, including pastor-led
worship until 2013, have been unsuccessful in
engaging more people. Discussions of a full closure
surfaced over the years. In 2012-2013, it was
determined that the campus could no longer
support a pastor: 50% of Sunday morning pastoral
support went to the Cottage Grove campus, which
was only worshipping 8% of The Grove total
attendance. The campus is self-supporting from a
maintenance and resource perspective, but is not
viable as an independent entity.
Can the current Cottage Grove members meet at an
alternate time and still use the building? Yes. The
worshippers at Cottage Grove location are beloved
members of our church family; their presence and
contributions are part of our identity. Those who
feel called to and passionate about this new work
have been asked to set up a meeting with Jeremy
for involvement options. For those not interested,
we’ve asked them to be on a transition team which
will create options, including connect them to the
existing worship services in Woodbury for 15-18
months or help them continue as a group at a
different time.
Page 16
When considering new ministries, sometimes people ask, “Why Church Plant?” Below is an article from the Dakotas-Minnesota conference which addresses important reasons to plant a church.
The Case for Planting
1. God is a sending God, and Jesus has sent us to plant churches.
“As the Father has sent me, I am sending you” (John 20:21) is just one of many biblical texts that identify Christians as “sent people.” When Jesus said, “Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and
of the Son and of the Holy Spirit” (Matthew 28:19), he was actually talking about church planting because “baptizing” in the book of Acts is consistently associated with incorporation into a body of believers. It is impossible to read
the New Testament or think of the history of the Christian movement without linking it to the planting of new churches.
2. North America needs more new churches to meet the need.
Many sociologists have observed that church attendance in North America is greatly over-reported (the national average hovers around 17 percent). New churches are needed to present the timeless gospel in a new and relevant form to a new generation. For every 1,000 people in a community, it is generally accepted that one
sustainable church can be planted of about 170 people (17 percent). Population projections for North America call for growth of about 50 million people between 2010 and 2030. As communities grow in number and ethnic diversity, and as churches age, decline, or die (about 12,000 close per year), it is clear that America needs many
new churches.
The following graph from The American Church research illustrates historic trends in church planting and the
relative need today.
3. New churches reach new
people at a higher rate than established churches.
Reaching new people for Jesus Christ is a challenging task in North America today. While
existing churches can be effective in this evangelistic effort, the overwhelming evidence is that new churches tend to do significantly better. Churches
15 years old or younger tend to grow faster and reach farther into the mission field than do older, more established congregations. This has led many
to agree that church planting is the single most effective way to reach new people. The American
Church’s research in the graph below illustrates this point.
The Cottage Grove
Planting Project
Page 17
ways to learn about the project 4. Church planting is
strategically smart.
In 2 Timothy 2:2, Paul presents a strategy for multiplication growth to Timothy: “The things
you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable people who
will also be qualified to teach others.” Growth happens exponentially when a multiplication strategy is used and church planting is the core
activity in that multiplication strategy. Every time we add a new church, we multiply the potential for new disciples as we release new
leaders into the harvest. Our personal experience confirms the wisdom of a multiplication strategy.
Imagine a person passing away at 90 with three children and 10 grandchildren. Compounded over time, it is easy to see how the fruitfulness of one birthing pair can easily be statistically surpassed within their own lifetime. We
have all seen those wonderful family photos! When a church starts another church, it creates new DNA that is passed on to a new generation which, in turn, passes it on to another generation. That new DNA passed down through generations is the multiplying dynamic scripture teaches. The enduring testimony to this strategy is the
history of every denomination in American. Apart from a church planting movement, they would not exist!
5. Church planting will revitalize a supportive parent congregation.
Church planting will usually activate passive members of your existing congregation. It is not uncommon to find people “sitting on the bench” who could serve, but they do not find a compelling reason or opportunity. When
congregational leaders move out to start something new, they open positions for service and create space for people to step up and engage. Failure to move out and multiply only perpetuates a “spectator mentality” in many churches. Little wonder people drift off to other interests.
Church planting will also bring to the surface principles and practices associated with church growth that are often forgotten in established churches. Supportive parent congregations watching a new startup can learn
valuable lessons about where they need to adapt and change to reach new people. This is often called the “boomerang principle.” Church planting can awaken a parent church to become “on mission” with a new level of urgency and effectiveness.
6. Church planting may reach your children…or grandchildren.
Many of us are deeply concerned for the next generation. We wonder if they will be committed to the church of their parents. The fact is, many will not.
Like us, the next generation needs to be encouraged to write a new expression of their parents’ faith. We are wise to encourage them to create a new style, a new approach, a new feel, a new incarnation of “church.” Our best emerging leaders will not just take what one generation has developed and blindly continue it. When they
push away from our worship, they are not always rejecting God; they are just rejecting our “wrapper.” The best we can do is proactively put in motion the mission of God to make disciples of Jesus Christ by encouraging, supporting, and resourcing young leaders with new dreams.
It is very likely that our grandchildren will owe their spiritual formation to a future church planter. So why not promote church planting where we can today?
Every church had a beginning. Like birthing a new child, the process can be challenging and difficult. Still, birthing is natural and needed. Healthy organisms reproduce despite all the trouble and trial associated with it. In the end, it is a reason for deep joy, satisfaction, and thanksgiving!
© 2018 Dakotas-Minnesota Area of The United Methodist Church
Reprint with permission in your context
Page 18
There is always something fun
to celebrate at preschool. This
week was no different, as it was
filled with learning and
celebrating the traditions of the
Chinese New Year.
Page 19
Woodbury Preschool ….. cont’d
Page 20
Cottage Grove Campus
8600 90th Street South, Cottage Grove, MN 55016
C ampus Phone: 651-769-1303
Main Office Phone: 651-738-0305
Sunday Worship Schedule
9:30 am
Woodbury Campus
7465 Steepleview Road, Woodbury, MN 55125
Main Office Phone: 651-738-0305
Email: [email protected]
Office Hours: Mon-Thu (8 am-3 pm), Fri (8-Noon)
Sunday Worship Schedule
9 & 10:30 am
CHURCH STAFF
Rev. Daniel Wetterstrom, Lead Pastor — [email protected]
Rev. Kelly Lamon, Associate Pastor — [email protected]
Nicole Suyak, Minister to Families w/Children — [email protected]
Amy Fuller, Minister to Families w/Students — [email protected]
Carolyn Winslow, Director of Caring Ministries — [email protected]
Kelly Reese, Family Ministry Program Assistant —
Kelley Kluz, Infant & Child Caregiver — [email protected]
Sadie-jo Kobussen, Welcome & Worship Coordinator —
Robin Muscoplat, Media Specialist, [email protected]
Tara Van Berkom, Records & Registration Manager —
Roberta Wiig, Business Administrator — [email protected]
Maria Rella, Office Manager & Building Scheduler —
Jim Tousignant, Facilities Manager — [email protected]
MUSIC MINISTRY
Rick Murphy, Contemporary Music — [email protected]
Lou Ann Henderson, Woodbury Chancel Choir Director,
Jan Rasmussen, Steeple Bells — [email protected]
Grant Buse & Garrett Strain, Audio Technician
Lea Anna McGowan, Cottage Grove Choral Music — [email protected]
Jean Hendrickson, Cottage Grove Pianist — [email protected]
WOODBURY PRESCHOOL AT THE GROVE Julie Johnson, Woodbury Preschool at The Grove —
Office hours at the Woodbury
campus are Mon-Fri (8 am-3 pm).
The phone will be answered
during those hours. When the
phone is not answered, leave a
private message for any members
of the staff. Directions are given
on the phone system.
Church Leadership
The responsibility for the
day-to-day administrative tasks
of the church has been
invested in the Core Team.
The team functions as the
primary lay-clergy partnership to
provide guidance and direction
to ministries.
Betsy Stites – Chair
Jill Easton – Secretary
Roberta Wiig – Business Adm.
Jennifer Edney
Linda Kleinsasser
Rev. Kelly Lamon
Charlie Maier
Rick Osborn
Rev. Daniel Wetterstrom