Madison Christian Community is an Ecumenical Partnership of Advent Lutheran Church – ELCA and Community of Hope – UCC

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May 2017

The Good Word “For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return there until they have watered the earth, making it bring forth and sprout, giving seed to the sower and bread to the eater,

so shall my word be that goes out from my mouth; it shall not return to me empty, but it shall accomplish that which I purpose, and succeed in the thing for which I sent it.” – Isaiah 55:10-11

The obvious thing is these rainy days.

Yesterday I had shared earlier verses from Isaiah also about waters, rains, and springs in the desert, making the land rejoice and be glad. I’d shared those parched and longing words in early pre-surgery prayers, then was driving toward church through downpours of rain.

Yes, you read correctly: “driving.” Acacia later said I lucked out in needing the car, because she arrived at the library soaked through her raingear. Whether you’re trying to bicycle through it, walking with umbrellas, or awakened to hear night rains, the obvious thing is rain these days.

The proverbial “April showers” bring other things. Grass gushes with green growth, and trees unfurl miraculously. Rains bring forth splashing mallards and sidewalks of worms. Washing away the waste of winter, we may also say the showers bring beauty, in the abundance of tulips and the aroma of crabapple blossoms and the ghostly white of bloodroot.

The purpose of spring rains may be in bringing growth, to rejuvenate the earth. And it is life to be shared: green vegetation becomes food, pollen sustains our bees, the cycle of life is shed and given for you. It is symbiotic.

Symbiosis defines mutually beneficial partnerships to aid survival. From lichens to elephants and oxpecker birds, hermit crabs with sea anemones to you and your digestive bacteria, this is constantly proving the function of getting along together and not just a battle of nature’s fittest.

Or—in an exact parallel for the roots of “life together”—it is convivial. Though “conviviality” may seem less about details of being roommates, this same basis reminds us it’s not pure function but also joyful to share life.

So these verses from Isaiah 55 (it’s a lovely chapter; look up the whole thing!) envision the purpose of rain. That’s fairly obvious in these days.

Then they compare God’s Word to the rains, sent to accomplish its purpose. Can we say God’s purpose is also symbiosis and conviviality, sharing life together?

Continue reading on the next page...

Of Special Interest:

Lent & Holy Week Survey, p. 2

May Worship, p.3

Sanctuary, p. 4

Adult Ed, Upcoming Opportunities, p. 5-p. 6

This Summer, p. 7

Volunteer Profile Info, p. 8

LUUG Updates, p. 9

Food Pantry Garden, p. 10

Kids in the Garden; Endowment Committee, p. 11

MCC Youth News, p. 12

Children’s & Family Ministry, p. 13-p. 15

A Look Back, p. 16

In the Wider Church, p. 17

Faith & Fellowship, p. 19

Prayers & Special Giving, p. 21

Back Page

Page 2 May 2017

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Of Special Interest:

...continues from the previous page. It seems fitting for MCC. We are in a symbiotic, mutually beneficial partnership. We are also in it for conviviality, for the delight of being together! We are formed inextricably into the Body of Christ, and breathed into new life proclaiming the Word “Christ is risen indeed! Alleluia!” It seems fitting for our other relationships. God’s Word is forgiveness, is peace, is reconciliation, is love. That is what God strives for in our families, in our friendships, at work. Sometimes as subtle as the dew or as hidden as life from a snowfall, God’s purpose will nevertheless be accomplished.

It seems fitting for the ELCA synod assembly this weekend. In these times denominations have reduced allegiance, with reactionary resentment against institutional religion. But assembly and UCC annual conference gatherings are reminders that the work of caring for refugees, feeding the hungry, addressing climate change, and celebrating God’s blessing is more than we can accomplish on our own. This is big work in the world, for God’s purposes of giving ourselves to share in life.

Amid God’s mission to stop harm and to spread life, we join convivially with each other and creation in celebrating God’s success: For you shall go out in joy and be led back in peace; the mountains and the hills before you shall burst into song, and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands. – Isaiah 55:12 +nick

LENT & HOLY WEEK: TWO-QUESTION SURVEY Amid our Easter Alleluias, we’d like to invite you to reflect back on earlier experiences this spring, pondering what was especially meaningful for you amid this community and beyond through the season of Lent and of Holy Week. This link will connect you to a two-question “survey,” inviting you to consider some personal recollection to grasp what was significant and inspiring. We'd also appreciate you typing to share some reflections for us to understand and grow. Jen Streit wrote up an article about their House Church experience, which you can also read on page 15. Thank you!

Page 3 May 2017

Strategic Directive:

Deepen people’s

connections to God and

encourage practices

that feed their spirits

and equip them for their

life journeys

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Of Special Interest:

Community of Hope Worship

Christ is Risen! Alleluia! Join us for Community of Hope and MCC shared worship throughout this Easter season of resurrection joy.

April 30: In a Hope service in the Covenant Room, we journey with the disciples on the Road to Emmaus, from lament and confusion to meaning-making, to connection, and finally to joyful recognition of Jesus in the breaking of bread.

May 7: In a Hope service in the Covenant Room, we will be led by Jesus the Good Shepherd, gathering around the feast that Jesus prepares as we again share communion.

May 14: In a Hope service in the Covenant Room, we will listen in as the disciples ask Jesus, “Show us Abba God, and we will be satisfied.” We will encounter this question at the font of baptism, welcoming Zoe Meyer into the baptized Body of Christ.

May 21: In an MCC shared worship in the Blessing Room, we will recognize our High School Seniors and celebrate another exciting and meaningful year of Sunday School, which wraps up for the summer.

May 28: In an MCC shared worship in the Blessing Room, we will celebrate the confirmation of four young people who have completed their two-year program. You won’t want to miss as they share their faith statements and make an affirmation of their baptism and their participation in the Body of Christ in words that are authentic to them at this point in their journey.

Looking Ahead: June 2—A Hope worship service in the Covenant Room in celebration of Pentecost! We will also be collecting one of the four annual UCC

special offerings called Strengthen the Church. “Each day, visions and dreams are created in the hearts of many in the United Church of Christ. Through the Strengthen the Church special mission offering, they can become a reality. As God calls our congregations to be ‘church’ in new ways, your gift will plant new churches, awaken new ideas in existing churches, and develop spiritual life in our youth and young adults. Because of this offering, many more will hear the good news that "God is still speaking." Strengthen the Church is directed to your church's Conference, Local Church Ministries and The Stillspeaking Ministry for these purposes. Invest in the Vision: Strengthen the Church!”

Advent Worship

As Advent continues to celebrate throughout the 50 days of Easter (“Christ is risen indeed! Alleluia!”), we are sharing communion at each service, instead of just 1st & 3rd Sundays. Specific liturgies in the month ahead

May 7 – ELW 8, “Kyrie eleison, on our world and on our way”

May 14 – Service in Song (Tom Hind liturgy), “The Spirit invites us and calls to reunite us”

May 21 – Shared MCC Sunday School celebration & senior recognition

May 28 – Shared MCC service with Confirmation for Mindi Bradt, Audrey Kuhn, Zoe Meyer, and Isla Parker

Please note: May 28 is the beginning of our summer worship schedule at MCC! Worship services begin at 9:30am, from Memorial Day through Labor Day.

MAY WORSHIP AT MCC

Page 4 May 2017

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SANCTUARY

“Behold! I stand at the door and knock.” Life for an immigrant has always been risky, leaving one’s homeland and way of life, possibly one’s language or family. But the risks of staying in an unsafe political situation or being in a perpetually depressed economic climate can make the journey appealing, or necessary. The way is often arduous, and sometimes downright dan gerous. Once in the new homeland, there is strong motivation to “make it”— to settle in and develop new relationships, make a contribution to the adopted homeland, follow through on promises made to those left behind. For those coming to the U.S., obtaining documents for legal entry is convoluted, lengthy, and sometimes impossible—especially for general laborers and those without financial means. Yet, these are the people that the U.S. also relies on in agriculture, hospitality services, childcare, and other job sectors. These are the people who contribute to the wealth of the country not only through labor but also through taxes and cultural capital.

These are our neighbors. They are God’s beloved. Yet, the immigrant community is facing increasing risk. Racism and xenophobia are on the rise. Border walls are bid and immigrant bans are ordered. There has been a shift in immigration enforcement policies. Instead of a focus on deporting undocumented immigrants who have been convicted through the criminal courts, Immigrations and Custom Enforcement (ICE) is tasked with removing all undocumented immigrants.

In Wisconsin alone, the federal government hopes to increase immigrant detention centers from two to nine. Breadwinners and parents of young children have been detained at ICE check-in appointments. ICE raids are possible, and even likely. Immigrant families are scurrying to create guardianship documents for children that could be left behind. The level of anxiety is high. The immigrant community in Madison is asking for our help, including willingness to provide physical sanctuary. In consultation with community partners, led by the affected immigrant community, and studying the issues involved, the MCC Sanctuary Task Force has been working to prepare a recommendation on MCC involvement since it was created at the MCC annual meeting in January.

Following is the latest update from the Sanctuary Task Force: At the Sanctuary Task Force meeting on April 27, the committee discussed outstanding concerns and questions. Given the request that our immigrant

community has made to our faith communities to provide sanctuary sites, the committee voted unanimously to make a faith-based recommendation to our MCC Leadership Team that we should proceed with becoming a physical sanctuary site. We believe that the obstacles and outstanding questions that persist are able to be resolved, and that this is a matter of theology. When Jesus comes knocking at our door, we don't want to be separated from him or to turn him away. We believe we are being called to take a risk and do this, to take a stand for social justice for our neighbors who are asking for our help. We now await discussion with the Leadership Team about next steps and look forward to further with our congregations. There is much more work, so please consider how you can be involved in these efforts for physical sanctuary, and perhaps even more in the many larger community efforts.

The Immigrant Apostles’ Creed (credited to Rev. Jose Luis Casal)

I believe in Almighty God, who guided the people in exile and in exodus,

the God of Joseph in Egypt and Daniel in Babylon, the God of foreigners and immigrants.

I believe in Jesus Christ, a displaced Galilean, who was born away from his people and his home, who

fled his country with his parents when his life was in danger.

When he returned to his own country he suffered under the oppression of Pontius Pilate, the servant of a foreign

power. Jesus was persecuted, beaten, tortured, and unjustly condemned to death.

But on the third day Jesus rose from the dead, not as a scorned foreigner but to offer us

citizenship in God’s kingdom.

I believe in the Holy Spirit, the eternal immigrant from God’s kingdom among us,

who speaks all languages, lives in all countries, and reunites all races.

I believe that the Church is the secure home for foreigners and for all believers.

I believe that the communion of saints begins when we embrace all

God’s people in all their diversity. I believe in forgiveness, which makes us all

equal before God, and in reconciliation, which heals our brokenness.

I believe that in the Resurrection God will unite us as one people

in which all are distinct and all are alike at the same time. I believe in life eternal,

in which no one will be foreigner but all will be citizens of the kingdom

where God reigns forever and ever. Amen.

Page 5 May 2017

Guiding Principle:

Nurture deep spirituality

and generosity

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Of Special Interest:

(On April 30 at 9am, our Confirmation students will be discussing their Lenten projects and leading conversations on the meaning of stewardship in our lives. That’s a bonus commercial for you!)

May 7 & 14, we will be asking “What’s in a name?” Marily Crews posed a question at the 2016 MCC annual meeting of how we feel about the name “Madison Christian Community.” What do labels and identities like “Christian” mean for us in this place and in interacting with the world these days? It’s not a conversation about a name change, but much more a chance to reflect on meaning together and the witness we offer to our neighbors.

May 21 will be the Adult Ed wrap-up session for the year, reflecting on what we learned and what motivated us and gathering ideas for next year.

UPCOMING OPPORTUNITIES

Bible Discussion

If you’ve been following the annual Bible reading guide, or if you’d just like a chance to chat with others about the good and bad, the blessed and the troublesome of reading the Bible, join Pastor Nick for some conversation this Monday evening at 6:45pm.

New Members

If you or others you know are interested in learning more about membership in the congregations of Madison Christian Community, we will be holding a pair of informational and orientation sessions this month. Over meals, we’ll be exploring questions about MCC and digging into some of the details of our life together. The two options are either Wednesday, May 17 at 6:00pm or Sunday, May 21 around 11:30am (following worship and sundaes). We will be receiving new members along with the shared Confirmation worship service on May 21 at 9:30am or on Pentecost the following week June 4 in separate worship service. If you indicated interest in serving as a new member partner on Time & Talent, you might be ready for an invitation in coming weeks!

Spiritual Companion Group: Thursdays in May

Wish to deepen your connection with the Divine, as well as with a small group of spiritual pilgrims at the MCC? A new Spiritual Companion Group is forming, which will meet at 6:30pm each Thursday beginning May 4 and continuing through the end of May. What is a spiritual companion? At the end of a six-week group that ran earlier this year, participants the question this way: a spiritual companion is a prayer partner, someone you can feel free to talk with about spiritual issues, someone you can share how it is with your soul. The group provides a safe and nurturing place for these types of relationship using a variety of creative exercises, time for reflection, and conversation. Each spiritual companion group is designed for those who choose to make a commitment to the full series, rather than as a drop-in class. This “covenant group” style fosters trusting relationships. Everyone is welcome. The group will be facilitated by Pastor Sonja. Contact her with any questions.

ADULT EDUCATION IN MAY

Page 6 May 2017

Guiding Principle:

Engage one another,

neighbors, and the

wider world in action to

improve people’s lives

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Of Special Interest:

UPCOMING OPPORTUNITIES

FARE (Faith in Action for Racial Equity)

This group meets Sunday, April 30, 11:45-1:45pm. Participants should make every effort to attend, as we will be reviewing next steps for the life of the group as we take what we are learning into action within and beyond the MCC. The group has spent the last several months exploring the issues related to racism, privilege, and intersectionality, and are at the point of getting to the heart of their own racial histories and determining where they see their agency related to racial justice. They have been equipping themselves for engagement. This group began in August of last year and committed to an extended study of racism and racial justice. Additional opportunities for MCC folk to learn about and get involved with racial justice are forthcoming, with the hope that some of our FARE participants will take leadership in this.

Forming: James Hamre Companion Team

Community of Hope member James Hamre is hard to miss in a congregation filled with people who motor on their own two feet, with or without the assistance of canes or walkers. James motors literally—with the assistance of a wheelchair. James, who has MS, comes faithfully to worship on Sunday mornings, traveling all the way from the Belmont Rehab Center on the Badger Bus. In addition to mobility problems, James also has difficulty using his hands and speaking is an effort. He has had an enormous amount of patience with us as we strive to make our community accessible. We’re making strides, but have more to learn!

After worship on Sunday, May 7, James and his sister, Karleen, will meet with those interested in getting to know him better and learning how we can ensure his participate as fully as possible, primarily in Hope and shared MCC worship settings. We’ll get answers to questions people most often ask: How do you operate his wheelchair? What can James do on his own and with what does he need assistance? Can he have food or drink while he’s here? What’s most helpful to him during worship? James and Karleen will answer these and other questions people have. Julie James is coordinating a group from Hope that will serve as his Companion Team, but others who wish to make a stronger connection with James and learn about these accessibility issues also are invited to the May 7 information session.

Study Sessions on Faith, Sexism, and Justice

The ELCA is in the process of developing a social statement on Women and Justice. (In the ELCA, social statements guide our theological reflection on a variety of ethical themes.) In the development process, you are invited to join Pastor Nick for three sessions on Faith, Sexism, and Justice. Our sessions are scheduled biweekly on Mondays, 7:00-7:30pm. May 22: What problems do women face, and what does justice require?

How is sexism personal, and how are we the body of Christ together? June 5: What does economic sexism look like, and how can we seek equity for all? How can we address violence against women and girls? June 12: Why do words and images for God matter? How do we challenge the misuse of Scripture against women and girls?

Obviously, all gender identities and expressions are welcome to participate (including men). And though this is an ELCA process, the conversations should be fruitful for Hope UCC members, too. If there is interest and need, we’ll schedule another set later in the summer.

For more background and materials, visit http://elca.org/womenandjustice

Page 7 May 2017

Strategic

Directive:

Foster and build

relationships within

the MCC, and foster

an open and

welcoming

environment

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Of Special Interest:

THIS SUMMER

Can YOU Canoe? Since we have an amazing set of 17 youth prepared to be voyaging through the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness June 12-18, that means we have THREE groups. (The maximum on a permit is four canoes, with 9 people.) We are still in need of two adult females to join our groups. You don’t need to be a canoeing or camping expert. If you’re willing, we’d love to have you! Talk to Pastor Nick, Karen Kuhn, Marily Crews, or Dean Ryerson.

Some dates for BWCA:

May 15: Full payment of $100 due

June 4: 11am-1pm: BWCA 101 @ Mendota Co. Park (lunch provided). Bring shoes/clothes that can get wet.

June 9: 5-7pm: Food Pack Out at MCC

June 11: 10:30am -1:30pm: Equipment and personal gear pack out at MCC

June 12-18: Wilderness!

July 23: BWCA shared MCC worship service

Summer Pick-Up Choir

For the past year or so, we have been hearing “more choir!” from singers and listeners, which is wonderful! This summer at some MCC services, we will offer a “Pick-Up Choir” opportunity, which means we will gather at 8:30am to learn some special music to share at the 9:30am worship service. SUNDAYS (tentative): May 28, June 18(?), July 2(?), July 23, & August 20

Summer Evening Worship

People are asking – “Will we have those summer evening services again?” The answer is “YES!” This year, we will meet on Thursday nights following the Food Pantry Garden Harvesting time. People are welcomed to attend one or both events. Please contact Pastor Nick or Pastor Sonja or Jen Streit if you are interested in helping to plan the food or services.

THURSDAYS: July 6, 13, 20, 27, & August 3

Men's Tailgate

The second annual men’s tailgate will be held on Thursday, June 1, with a 5:15pm Social Hour, 6:30pm Supper-On-A-Bun, and 7:00pm Program. More details to follow as the weather gets warmer.

MCC Camping Weekend

Calling all outdoor enthusiasts! MCC Camping Weekend is June 9-11th at the Bethel Horizons Campground in Dodgeville, WI. Please join us for a wonderful weekend of campfires, s’mores, and stargazing. If you’re not a camper, please make a day trip to Governor Dodge around 11:00 am on Saturday, June 10th where we will swim in Cox Hollow Lake, hike, and have a potluck lunch together. Amenities include hot showers, flush toilets, and kids playground. Platform tents with bunk beds and mattresses are available! Camping is $18/family per night. Nicky McElfresh is happy to answer questions, nmcelfresh@gmail.com or 608-848-2043. Sign up at www.SignUpGenius.com/go/4090D48A4AD2CA20-mcccamping

Page 8 May 2017

Guiding Principle:

Cultivate hospitality and

meaningful connections

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Of Special Interest:

UPDATE YOUR ONLINE VOLUNTEER PROFILE FOR SUMMER

Our ministry leaders will be creating the summer online volunteer schedule in early May. To minimize being scheduled for a date and time you are away, please take a few minutes now to update your MY PROFILE tab in your online volunteer account. 1. Log into the Web Terminal from the MCC home page VOLUNTEER button 2. Click MY PROFILE tab.

You have several options for managing summer dates: (1) inactive status, (2) sub for ministries, and (3) unavailable dates. Choose the option that best fits your situation.

Option 1: Set your profile to “inactive.” Consider using this option if you will be gone for several weeks or months. You must deselect this option when you return to begin volunteering again. Note that you will not be removed from your already scheduled positions in May. Option 2: Select “I only want to sub ...” for one or more ministries. That way you will not be scheduled automatically, but you will continue to receive email sub requests from the system that you can choose to fill if you are available. Option 3: If you know your summer plans, enter your “Unavailable dates / times”. Once the schedule is posted, you cannot add “unavailable dates” that fall within the schedule’s time frame, so enter your dates before May 10. Finally, click the SUBMIT button to save your changes.

Before you leave on vacation, check your MY SCHEDULE tab to see your personal assignments. If you are scheduled for a time you are away, click request sub. The system will send a sub request email to all volunteers in that ministry who are available on that date and time. Thanks for using the online volunteer program! Emily Wixson— enwixson@gmail.com

Page 9 May 2017

Strategic Directive:

Care for Creation and

help others to do so as

well

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Of Special Interest:

MCC LAND USE UMBRELLA GROUP (LUUG) UPDATES

The LUUG committee would like to thank everyone who helped with the MCC Earth Day projects. So much was accomplished: mulching the front entrance and around the signs, picking up trash, weeding the Memorial Garden, clearing brush from the Spirit Woods, organizing the garden compost pile, raking and reseeding the north prairie and laying rock pavers between the prairie and food pantry garden. WHEW, what a crew. All can take credit for engaging in MCC mission for creation stewardship.

LUUG will be organizing projects throughout the summer where families can come to work and play. The projects will be held on the third Saturday morning from 9-11:00am. You can come for a few minutes or for the entire time. Your time and service will be paid with lemonade, coffee, fellowship and something sweet.

In May, the Sunday School will be planting annuals around the front entrance as well as planting potatoes and pole beans in the Food Pantry Garden.

Look for your invitation to the summer LUUG projects. Hope to see you in the MCC Gardens!

Bees are Back! If you had been too much minding your own buzz-ness, you might have missed that two hives of bees have been repopulated outside the pastors’ offices. Bring a calm presence to watch the traffic coming and going to fill hives and pollinate local plants. If you’d like to learn more or BEE involved, talk to Paul Reith or Pastor Nick.

Page 10 May 2017

Strategic Directive:

Focus on meaningful

partnerships that work

for justice and enhance

the quality of life for

people around us

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Of Special Interest:

MCC FOOD PANTRY GARDEN UPDATE

Activity in the garden is picking up steam and we are starting a regular schedule of planting, harvesting and weeding (how quickly they appear). Our current group gardening schedule is 9:00-11:00am Tuesday and Thursdays. All are welcome to join us any time. No time is too little.

Early crops of peas, sugar snaps, kale, mustard greens and spinach were planted the first of April in our “no-till” area. Everything is coming up nicely and we should be harvesting those crops soon. The rest of garden was tilled on April 24. April 25 was a HUGE day in the garden in that we laid down mulch paper and hay, set up the bean tunnel, and set up the water system and surface irrigation. We are now ready to plant other crops as the soil warms up. Please visit the MCC Food Pantry Garden.

Thank you to everyone who helped construct the path between the prairie and food pantry garden. Special thanks to John and Mary Rowe for donating the flagstones and Rich and Rita Olson for hauling them from the Rowe’s home to MCC. That was no small feat in that the stones weigh 40-50 lb each.

Other updates

The Reformation Garden and cutting flower garden are underway.

Over 60 lb of produce have been delivered to Madison Outreach Ministry and Lussier Education Community Center including asparagus, rhubarb and kale, lettuce, collards and spinach from the hoop house.

Chrysalis, the non-profit organization that works with people with mental illness, is taking our rhubarb for Popworks who use it in their organic popsicles.

Jean and Ann gave a “walk and talk” presentation to the Women of the ELCA meeting hosted by Hildy McGown and Jan Robertson. The women were very interested in the children’s garden program, bees, food pantry garden, Reformation garden and community gardens. We were blessed with beautiful weather.

The New Reformation Garden aka “Physic Garden”

Page 11 May 2017

Guiding Principle:

Engage one another,

neighbors, and the

wider world in action to

improve people’s lives

Internet Link Back to

Of Special Interest:

KIDS IN THE GARDEN

The soil is warming, and soon it’ll be time to plant and get the garden going… And it’s time to get organized for the Kids in the Garden program for this summer. Children ranging from ages 5-10 will be coming to the garden on Tuesday and Thursday mornings from about 10-11:00am starting June 20 through August 10. Volunteers are asked to be at the garden by 9:30/45am to get ready for the children. The children will be divided into two groups and alternate between learning outside or inside preparing food for snack. Outside in the garden the children will be divided into smaller groups to work closely with volunteers.

Becky Hustad, the coordinator of the program, has already met with the Lussier staff and some members of the Green Team. Volunteers will guide students in their garden experience - observing, caring for the garden and harvesting.

Volunteers can sign up for all days or just what fits their schedules. A sign-up sheet is in the Shalom room, and you’ll be able to sign up for specific days on our online volunteer system soon. If you have questions, see Susan Gruber or Joyce Anderson.

So if you enjoy being outdoors (a couple helpers still needed for indoors also esp. Tuesdays) and you enjoy children, sign up and join us in the garden this summer for the Kids in the Garden program.

The Advent Lutheran Mission Endowment Committee is now accepting grant applications. Although this Fund is managed by the ELCA Foundation, all MCC members are eligible to apply. The Endowment Fund was created as a way to support ministries that are above and beyond our operating budgets and meet the following criteria:

Local faith-based social ministries serving basic human need

National/International faith-based organizations meeting basic human needs

Financial assistance to MCC members for post-secondary education

Innovative new programs or ministry initiatives within the MCC consistent with the MCC mission and purpose.

Environmental stewardship ministries

Grant awards vary and are based on the above criteria, availability of funds and prior funding history. Please note that the application form has changed and is available on our website under the events and announcements tab (click here) or from the church office staff. The deadline for applications is Friday, May 19, with awards to be made in early June.

If you have questions about the application process or would like to make a contribution to the endowment fund, please contact a committee member for further information. Thank you. Members: Tom Walsh, Linda Pils, Ann Ward, Julie Krbec, John Rowe, Pastor Nick and Rita Olson

ENDOWMENT COMMITTEE NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS

Page 12 May 2017

Strategic Directive:

Strengthen and build

relationships within

MCC and foster an open

and welcoming

environment

Internet Link

Back to

Of Special

Interest:

MCC YOUTH NEWS

Fantastic Fishers Finish Third – It’s almost alliterative grandeur! Two teams of youth from MCC participated in the citywide ecumenical Amazing GRace obstacle challenge event at the start of April. Based on the “Amazing Race” television series, teams travel around the city completing puzzles and challenges, learning Bible stories, and competing for prize money. One of our teams finished third, with their charity prize money going to The Road Home! This year included Jupiter from Gustav Holst’s The Planets, a bison, the Dollar Store, gefilte fish and Peeps, Adam and Eve at Olbirch Gardens, a donation to Salvation Army shelter, and more!

Confirmation and CONFIRMATION! Classes continue this month on Wednesdays May 10 & 24, 7:00-8:30pm. Outside of class, second year students will be working on faith statement reflection papers and exploring summaries of this faith as they currently understand it. All of that is building toward the service of Confirmation or Affirmation of Baptism in shared MCC worship on Sunday, May 28 at 9:30am. Please keep in prayers and congratulations these students who are finishing the confirmation program and preparing to take a larger step forward into our shared faith: Mindi Bradt, Audrey Kuhn, Zoe Meyer, and Isla Parker.

Social Hour

Hey High Schoolers: a special mark on your calendars. We’ll plan to get together for monthly social hour on Sunday, May 21 at 9:00am. Details to follow!

Senior Recognition

Along with end-of-year Sunday School celebrations in shared MCC worship on May 21, we'll also be recognizing and blessing our High School seniors: Casey Bradt, Mariah Brugge, Aralee Derflinger, Morgan Eder, Maria Ohlrogge, and Megan Walsh.

In the two weeks leading up before then, we invite the congregation to write notes for these lovely pots created by Joanne Kirkland. Notes may include social remembrances, words of encouragement, Bible verse or hymn stanzas, sketches, or however you want to tuck some love into a pot for the seniors.

Summer Garden Internship Opportunity If you are:

In High School (grades 9-12) A member of MCC Love to play in dirt Can lift 30-40 pounds Have a flexible schedule Monday -Thursday mornings 9-11:30 Thursday afternoon 4-6:00

The MCC Food Pantry Garden wants YOU! This is a paid position. If you are interested or would like more information, please contact Jean Einerson (einerward@tds.net).

Page 13 May 2017

Strategic

Directive:

Deepen people’s

connections to God

and encourage

practices that feed

their spirits and equip

them for their life

journeys

Internet Link

Back to

Of Special

Interest:

CHILDREN’S & FAMILY MINISTRY

Sunday School News Another excellent “Learn it and Teach it”

Sunday School project led by Jane Moorman!

To go along with the Holy Week story, she

taught the Middle School students how to

make beaded crosses. The MS students then

paired up with K-2 students and taught them

how make the crosses! Jane recruited Gail

Roberts and Beth Falkos to help also. See the

gorgeous display of their work on the art wall.

Upcoming Events:

Sunday, April 9 Palm Sunday Pageant/Parade! Sunday, May 21 Sundae Sunday – Celebration Worship & Church Picnic

June 9-11 Family Camping at Bethel Horizons - See page 7 for a full description and link to sign up!

Saturday, June 24 Steeple-to-Steeple Bike Ride for Hunger (click link for more info &

registration)

Larry Henning shared

the Holy Week story

with 3rd & 4th graders.

To start Holy Week, Christa Olson led a Birth-4K lesson

about Palm Sunday.

Page 14 May 2017

Guiding Principle:

Inspire gratitude,

creativity, and joy

Internet Link

Back to

Of Special

Interest:

CHILDREN’S & FAMILY MINISTRY

Sunday School Spring Collection We will be collecting basic medical supplies – bandaids, antibiotic cream, toothbrushes, toothpaste, hand sanitizer, OTC pain relievers, ace bandages – to send to Haiti with Emma Schneider (former MCC member) who is currently a nursing student and will be doing an internship in Haiti this summer at Village Mozayik. If you like soccer (or even just exercising for a good cause), check out her “Hat Trick 4 Haiti” event below.

Nursery An oversized THANK YOU to Julie Krbec, for being the MCC’s Nursery Coordinator for the past 8+ years! Julie has been ready to pass the torch for a few years, yet she has been so dedicated to the children and parents of the MCC that she has stayed on as our faithful and diligent Nursery Coordinator much longer than her children have used the nursery – and always with her bright, cheerful smile and kind, bubbly personality. Julie was involved with the hiring of the past 3(?) nursery employees, maintaining a great selection of toys, and ensuring that the nursery was properly staffed each Sunday.

Jen Streit will be absorbing the main duties of the Nursery Coordinator as no volunteers have emerged, and it seems to make sense to fall under Children and Family Ministry. Julie and Jen met to brainstorm creative ways to cover all the responsibilities involved. Julie will happily volunteer consulting services as future needs arise (whew! and hooray!!).

Another oversized THANK YOU Sarabeth Hall who has been our Nursery Worker for the past 4 years! Sarabeth has cared for our youngest MCC members with kindness and gentleness. She has been responsible and reliable. The children have really enjoyed her care; and the parents have appreciated feeling safe leaving their children in her care. She leaves us to pursue graduate studies in mathematics at the University of Minnesota.

The Personnel Committee is working on posting the position, so that we have time to find an excellent candidate who might stick around as long as Sarabeth!

Children in Worship

Lent and Holy Week offered so many wonderful opportunities for children in worship. Children engaged with the story of Lazarus in worship at Hope. On our way to Communion, they tore up the bandages that symbolized the things that bind us and freed us like Jesus to Lazarus. A truly beautiful and holy experience!

The children led us into Holy Week with a spirited Palm Sunday procession that led into a powerful worship experience that centered on “The Risk to Confront Power.”

A delightful crowd helped Pastor Nick to ponder over where Jesus could be at the 10:15am Easter service.

Page 15 May 2017

Strategic

Directive:

Deepen people’s

connections to God

and encourage

practices that feed

their spirits and equip

them for their life

journeys

Internet Link

Back to

Of Special

Interest:

CHILDREN’S & FAMILY MINISTRY

Reflections on a Cross+Generational House Church Our house church was lovely! We had a wonderfully cross+generational crew of the Olson Family (the gracious hosts), Ken and Mary Maxwell, Beth and Don Falkos, and us – Dan, Jen, Megan, and Lucie Streit. Once a week during Lent, we gathered for a planned potluck meal, read and discussed scripture, strengthened our relationships, and prayed together. Andrea went above and beyond to make sure there was something relevant for the children to work on at the table while the adults were chatting. One Wednesday evening, the children acted out the Lazarus story, and the adults gained new insights into the scripture.

It was so nice to all be gathered around the table together listening and sharing. House Churches were very individualized to the needs/interests of the group, so not all were like ours. Ours certainly was special: My children and we, parents, looked forward to attending each week – even though it meant not being home from 8a-7:30pm each Wednesday. It was worth it. Delicious meal and lovely cross+generational bonding! One of the best Lenten practices we have done as a family!

Mark Your Calendars

May 21—Sundae Sunday! Last day of Sunday School & HS Senior Recognition & Sunday School Art Wall Reception & All Church Picnic

We celebrate with special involvement in worship and ice cream sundaes and hearty sandwiches after worship. Please bring your favorite sundae topping to share, your favorite outdoor game (if you have one), and/or a side dish. Click here to RSVP by Thursday, May 18 for a free sandwich.

Sat., June 3—Hat Trick 4 Haiti Family Event Click here for flyer and registration

Organized by former MCC member Emma Schneider as a fundraiser for Haiti. From 3pm-5pm at Ripp Park in Waunakee, we are offering a partner-based workout for ALL individuals interested in spending quality time with a family member, engaging in a fun workout, and of course, supporting an amazing cause!

Register yourself for $35, OR save by registering yourself AND a loved one for $50! Each partnership will receive a complementary soccer ball that can be donated to children in Haiti after the camp if you and your partner desire. *No soccer skills required. This is an opportunity for some fun and physical activity no matter your skill set! All we ask is that children are at least 5 years of age. *It is not required to sign up with a partner. If you are registered as an individual, you will be partnered with another individual at the camp. Following the camp, from 7pm-10pm, we invite all camp participants AND their friends and family to the after party at Lucky's in Waunakee for dinner, drinks, sand volleyball, live music, and more fundraising! Come and learn more about Emma's internship and the non-profit MOZAYIK, see a performance by Haitian musician, Mona Augustin, and continue to raise funds by purchasing food, refreshments, t-shirts, and registering to win silent auction items! All proceeds, AND a percentage of all Lucky's sales will be donated to MOZAYIK to fund Emma's summer projects at Villaj Mozayik in Haiti. Learn more from Emma's bio is listed on our Fundraiser page.

Sat, June 24 Steeple-to-Steeple Bike Ride for Hunger Click here to sign up

Charity bicycle ride raising money to fight hunger. Three routes through scenic Dane County: choose the 15 mile family ride on paved trails; or more ambitious routes of 30 miles or 100km. Water and snacks every 7-15 miles. Root beer floats at the finish! The Streit family had a lot of fun with this event last

year!

June 9-11 Family Camp-ing at Bethel Horizons - Click here to sign up

Calling all outdoor enthusi-asts! MCC Camping Weekend is June 9-11th at the Bethel Horizons Campground in Dodgeville, WI. Please join us for a wonder-ful weekend of campfires, s’mores, and stargazing. If you’re not a camper, please take a day trip to Governor Dodge around 11:00 am on Saturday, June 10th where we will swim in Cox Hollow Lake, hike, and have a potluck lunch together. Campers of all ages are welcome, Bethel Horizons

Page 16 May 2017

Strategic Directive:

Strengthen and build

relationships within

MCC, and foster an

open and welcoming

environment

Internet Link Back to

Of Special Interest:

MCC Women’s Salad Supper a Success

The annual MCC Women's Salad Supper was very well attended. Our speaker this year was Nasra Wehelie, who is the Development Director at Madison-area Urban Ministry. Nasra came to the US from Somalia in 1989 and attended UW and Cardinal Stritch University, obtaining BA and MBA degrees. The primary topic of her talk was Islam and how we can help to decrease Islamophobia. Her personal experiences with xenophobia, as a black Muslim woman, has increased her desire to build bridges, be involved in the community, and change negative

perceptions. We all learned a lot at this very educational event! In addition to MUM, Nasra is involved with Muslim Youth of Madison, an organization she founded after 9/11. Muslim Youth of Madison focuses on recreational, educational, spiritual and charitable activities. A week after our Salad Supper, the Muslim Youth took part in an event in Chicago and a portion of our free-will offering helped cover some of the costs of the Madison group participating in that event. The other half of our offering was given to MUM. Thank you to everyone who attended!!

Art Wall Newly Invigorated The Art Wall has been invigorated with new art display system that enables artists to easily hang their work using cables. The molding holding the cables was painted red to match the wall and has been placed high just below the ceiling beams. Cables and metal hooks for art can be easily moved or removed.

Please look at the opening exhibit by children in the Create Sunday School class under the direction of Jane Moorman, who helped them make beaded crosses. Also exhibited are crosses made by our members during the cross-generational Easter experience. Shows will be exhibited for a 3-month period. We are looking forward to photos by John Mason during the months of June-August. We are excited to be able to host the work of DarRen Morris, a jail prisoner. Plans are developing to tie his exhibit with community-wide reception and education about prison reform.

Many thanks go to a number of people who made this possible: Ginger Long Memorial Fund provided the funds for the Walker display system Linda Pils and Gail Roberts was instrumental in researching the possible display options,

with Gail selecting a system with which she was familiar at her son's restaurant, Pasqual’s. Mary Rowe for painting the molding red John Rowe and Anthony for mounting the molding People coordinating future shows: Debra Greene, Tina Hogle, Lois Komai, Sara Jordan,

Kaisa Miller, Jen Streit Art Wall Committee members: Lois Komai, Chair, Sara Jordan, Kaisa Miller, Gail Roberts,

Jen Streit, and Pastor Nick

A LOOK BACK

Page 17 May 2017

Guiding Principle:

Engage one another,

neighbors, and the

wider world in action to

improve people’s lives

Internet Link Back to

Of Special Interest:

ELCA Synod Assembly This weekend (April 29 & 30) the ELCA congregations of the South-Central Synod of Wis. gather for our annual assembly at the Marriott in Middleton. The Synod Assembly is a time to celebrate and give thanks for our partnership in Christ’s mission and features meaningful Holy Communion worship, a provocative keynote address by Mark Tidsworth about the letting go of church-as- we-have-known-it and shifting toward a more hopeful future, opportunities for learning and spiritual growth through breakout sessions led by the some of our best leaders in the synod (but also by Pastor Nick on climate change), fellowship and connecting with siblings in our larger church family, and decision-making on how we will use our resources and gifts to be partners in Jesus’ work in the world.

Voting members from Advent are Noah Lange, Kaisa Miller, Rob Olson, and Pastor Nick. So that you don’t feel left out, here’s a video message from Bishop Mary for you to join in, considering the question of the church’s future amid what feels like decline. You might also like to look at some of the issues the assembly is considering, a number of which Pastor Nick helped bring forward. You can find resolutions beginning on page 19 of this document. One on refugees and immigrants connects to our sanctuary conversations at MCC. Another on becoming a Reconciling in Christ synod (meaning a public statement that we fully welcome people who are LGBTQ+ into the work of our synod) is further backed up by upcoming changes to the synod’s structure away from gender binary, a question in part prompted by Advent’s annual meeting.

Since pastors are expected to be at assembly through Sunday morning, worship at Advent on April 30 will be led by Rev. John Mix.

Summer Campers: Now Is the Time! Want to experience the Holy in a beautiful outdoor setting with others who gather for fellowship, fun, and learning? Check out the UCC outdoor ministry programs. Registrations are filling up so be sure to make your plans soon! Sessions for children, youth, adults, and families are scheduled at Pilgrim Center and Moon Beach. A complete schedule can be found online at https://www.ucci.org/2017-schedule/.

The Crossing News The Crossing Campus Ministry's Annual Spring Gala will be held this Sunday, April 30. The Gala is an celebration of the many ways students’ lives have been enriched through their participation in this Campus Ministry program, including spiritual practices, discussion groups, local and international Quest service projects, and community building. It will also be a recognition of Executive Director J. Manny Santiago. Manny is moving to the Northwest for a new job opportunity, prompted by a need to be closer to family. He has served The Crossing well, and will be missed.

IN THE WIDER CHURCH

Page 18 May 2017

Strategic Directive:

Deepen people’s

connections to God and

encourage practices

that feed their spirits

and equip them for their

life journeys

Internet Link Back to

Of Special Interest:

Southeast Wisconsin Association UCC Annual Meeting Congregations of the Southwest Association will meet at St. John's UCC in Monroe in May 6. Pastor Sonja, Julie James, and Nancy Tubesing will be our congregation’s voting delegates, but all are welcome. The meeting features keynote speaker Edie Rasell, UCC Minister for Economic Justice. Edie will examine what the Bible says about the economy, explore how we got off track, and consider what can be done. Register by April 30. Cost, including lunch, is $15. Contact Pastor Sonja if you want to carpool. Register online at: https://secure.accessacs.com/access/eventlogin.aspx?id=g/vPQDq9tuCNlH+mQp5rqA==&site=150433&ReturnUrl=events%2fwz_people.aspx&ChurchID=4251&EventID=130018&sn=150433

Wisconsin UCC Annual Meeting - June 9-11 Members and friends of UCC congregations from all over Wisconsin will gather at the Green Lake Conference Center on Friday, June 9, for a three-day annual conference. This will be a particularly exciting gathering, with the opportunity to hear from the UCC national president and general minister Rev. John Dornhauer, as well as Rev. Everett Mitchell, pastor of Christ the Solid Rock Church in Madison and a Dane County judge. The Wisconsin Conference is preparing to welcome the biennial UCC General Synod in Milwaukee in 2019. Pastor Sonja and Julie James are two of our congregational delegates. We are seeking a third official delegate, whose registration will be paid by the congregation. Others who wish to attend as visitors are welcome. If you are interested in being our delegate or visitor, let Lois Komai or Pastor Sonja know.

A Day Away: A retreat for busy single women, ages 18-50 Come to Holy Wisdom Monastery for time, space, resources for your interior life ~ leave with a full heart. May 6 – July 29 -or- November 4, 2017. http://benedictinewomen.org/day-away-reconnect2/

Sacred Citizenship at Holy Wisdom Monastery Our political choices are expressions of our moral and spiritual convictions. They enable us to have a voice in preserving our constitutional rights by electing women and men whose decisions will uphold the principles upon which our country was founded. In this series of two programs at Holy Wisdom Monastery we will explore the intersection between politics and the values that shaped our Constitution. Through presentations, resource sharing and opportunities for questions and dialogue, we will explore why the most important role in our government is the role of Citizen. Come for one or both sessions.

Sacred Citizenship: The connection between Politics and Spirituality Tuesday, May 9, 2017, 5:15-7:30 pm Speakers: Rabbi Renee Bauer, Director of Chaplaincy and Outreach for Jewish Social Services and John Nichols, Washington Correspondent to the Nation and Associate Editor of the Capital Times Sacred Citizenship: Immigration and Hospitality Tuesday, May 16, 2017, 5:15-7:30 pm Speakers: Karen Menendez Coller, Executive Director of Centro Hispano and Joe Parisi, Dane County Executive

IN THE WIDER CHURCH

Women’s Thursday Breakfast Advent women are invited for coffee each Thursday at 7am at Panera Bread on University Ave. The only agenda is sharing friendship, and there is always laughter. We do service projects several times a year, pray for one another’s concerns, and celebrate joys. Contact: Karen Schwarz: 225-0026.

OPALS Book Group On May 23 at 1:30pm we’ll discuss The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down by Anne Fadiman. This non-fiction book is about a Hmong family in CA, raising a daughter with epilepsy through cross-cultural misunderstandings and well-meaning medical people. Contact: Mary Maxwell, 230-3002.

Page 19 May 2017

Guiding Principle:

Cultivate hospitality

and meaningful

connections

FAITH & FELLOWSHIP GROUPS

Internet Link

Back to

Of Special

Interest:

MCC GEMs (Grumpy Elderly Men) Members are retired but not necessarily grumpy or elderly. We meet at MCC on Tuesdays at 10:30am to discuss books chosen by the group and to engage in conversation about current issues. We’re currently discussing Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind by Yuval Noah Harari. Contact: Jim Eastman, 298-7155.

Morning Bible Study—Judith Circle The Morning Bible Study group meets the 2nd Tuesday of the month from 9:30-11am, at the MCC. We call ourselves the Judiths and we are a friendly group of around 8-10 women who enjoy stimulating discussion, a good cup of coffee and getting to know other MCC women better. Contact: Jean Loichinger, 836-1791.

Morning Men’s Group Mondays, 7:15 am at the Lakefront on Langdon at the UW Memorial Union (Terrace). Good conversation, friendship, laughter and support. Contact: Ken Streit, 231-1525.

CoH Men: Pancakes, Puns, Proverbs and Politics Those are just a few of the things you will miss if you don’t get to the Hope men’s breakfast at the Original Pancake House on University Avenue, at 6:30am every Wednesday.

CoH Women’s Breakfast Group Solve the World’s Problems With Us--One Cup of Coffee at a Time. This Breakfast Group meets 1st and 3rd Wednesdays starting at 7:00am. We have no agenda except to listen, learn and laugh with each other at the Hubbard Avenue Diner, Middleton. All are welcome. Contact: Sandra Esrael, sandraesrael@tds.net.

Afternoon Bible Study—Elizabeth Circle We meet the 2nd Friday of the month at 1:30pm at Oakwood Village University Woods in the Oaks Community Room, 6225 Mineral Point Rd. We are a group of women who meet each month to read and discuss a Bible study, share friendship and support one another. You are very welcome to visit us. Contact is Margaret Smith at 231-1496.

Third Thursday Lunch Bunch No agenda, just conversation and fellowship the 3rd Thursday of the month, 11:30am at Prairie Café, 3109 Pheasant Branch Rd., Middleton. Contact: Jan Robertson, 833-6312

Page 20 May 2017

Strategic Directive:

Strengthen and build

relationships within

MCC, and foster an

open and welcoming

environment

FAITH & FELLOWSHIP GROUPS

Internet Link

Back to

Of Special

Interest:

MCC Film Group MCC Film Group Film Group will meet on Friday May 19 7:00pm at Dorothy and Gurdip Brar's home. Film to be announced. Bring a snack to pass.

Inspire This is an evening group for MCC women who seek to inspire and be inspired. We take turns hosting and read a book, article or passage ahead of time. We meet the 2nd Thursdays at 8:00pm. Contact: Kaisa Miller, kaisaumiller@gmail.com.

MCC Purls We welcome anyone interested in this ministry, experienced knitter or crocheter, beginner, or anyone in-between. We make prayer shawls, hats, mittens, scarves and headbands. We meet the third Tuesday of each month at 10:30am at the MCC. Also—we accept any yarn you care to donate. Please mark your bags “PURLS” and leave by the guestbook table. Contact: Virginia Stumbo, 695-2266.

MCC Quilters We meet the first Tuesday of every month at 9am at MCC. The women in this group enjoy the fun of making warm and beautiful quilts for Lutheran World Relief. The quilters are taught everything they need to know and provided with any needed “tools.” If you can stay into the afternoon, we encourage you to bring a lunch. Contact Hildy McGown, 238-8670.

Meditation Monday for MCC friends Begin your week with balance and peace of mind. We welcome all who’d like to join us in the Covenant Room, 5:30-6:30pm each Monday. We begin by listening to a brief “dharma talk” that explores different aspects of a meditation practice, then sit in mindfulness for about 20 minutes. Afterwards we may talk about our experiences (or not). Wear comfortable clothes and bring a pillow(s) or blanket. Namaste! Contact: Bob Sessions, 628-8610.

55+ Potluck Group The 55+ group will meet Wednesday, May 24, at noon, with a potluck at church. A repre-sentative from the Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) will be presenting. The ADRC is a one-stop shop for all resource knowledge for aging and disabled living in Dane County. If you need more information, contact Ann Miller-Holman

9am Sunday Adult Discussion All are welcome to attend Adult Discussion (formerly “Parent Hour”) the third Sunday of the month in the downstairs area. Anyone with interest in sharing the challenges and occasional triumphs of parenting is invited. The group is accepting, and always has a robust discussion. Anyone with a commitment to our youth (regardless of parental status) is encouraged to join us!

JEWELS (Joyfully, Energetic, Women Engaged in Life) We are a group of joyful MCC women who meet the 3rd Wednesday of the month from 6-9:00pm in members’ homes for support, fellowship, food and fun. All are welcome! Contact: Karen Kuhn, kbkuhn@sbcglobal.net

MCC Community Group On Sunday, May 7, the Community Group will have a potluck after worship (12pm) at the Saukdale Community Room (across the street) to plan for future events. All are welcome. Contact Jean Loichinger.

Please hold the following members in your prayers during the month of May:

From Community of Hope:

5/7-5/13: Bill Long; Andrew, Kristin, David; Arden & Linda Mahlberg

5/14-5/20: Jan Manser & Dave Manion; Tom & Joan Matthews

5/21-5/27: Martha McCurdy & Peter Van Kan; Carol McDonald

5/28-6/3: Mary Nack; Bill Rettig & Jean Gilbertson

From Advent:

5/7-5/13: Paul & Magdalena Reith; Claire, Sawyer; Andy & Helen Remington; Dennis Rhodes & Jeanne Duffy; Joey, Natalie, Meghan; Ben & Christy Roberts; Stanley, Calvin, Hudson, Caymus

5/14-5/20: Ellen & Leigh Roberts; Gail & Jeff Roberts; Jan Robertson

5/21-5/27: Donell Rogness & Craig Nauman; Ulrich Rosenhagen & Jennifer Ratner-Rosenhagen; Amelie, Jonah; Mary & John Rowe

5/28-6/3: Dean Ryerson; Janet Sabatke; Jack Saltes

Page 21

Guiding Principle:

Engage one another,

neighbors, and the

wider world in action to

improve people’s lives

PRAYING THROUGH THE DIRECTORY

May 2017

SPECIAL GIVING

Thank you for your continued contributions to help the most vulnerable in our community.

Treasury of Love To this point, the Treasury of Love offering for April was $761. Six separate checks were written—four for shut-off prevention ($532) and two for partial rent ($229).

Special Fund

From March 28-April 26, the Special Fund wrote three separate checks: #2666—$100 for partial rent; #2667—$120 for partial back rent; #2668—$125 partial month at a Resident Re-covery Program.

Check the bulletin board in the Shalom Room to read Thank You letters from the various organizations we have helped recently.

“I will make you fishers of fish.”

Pastor Nick is away starting after worship on May 7 for a couple days for the start of the fish-ing season, an annual tradition with his dad for more than a quarter century! Depending on how they’re biting, he may be back in the office on Wednesday, May 10. Pastor Sonja is avail-able for emergencies and other concerns while he is away.

Community of Hope Steering Committee Bill Long Sara Jordan Rolf Killingstad Beth Campbell Lois Komai Avis Elson Joan Matthews

Advent Council Joyce Anderson Steve Sellwood Mary Rowe Kaisa Miller Todd Holman Cindy McGown Brian Kuhn Anna Bauer

MCC Leadership Team Members of both the Community of Hope Steering Committee and the Advent Council

Staff: Pastor Sonja Ingebritsen Community of Hope, UCC mccrevsonja@tds.net Pastor Nick Utphall Advent Lutheran, ELCA mccnick@tds.net Jen Streit Children’s & Family Ministry mccjen@tds.net Kaisa Miller MCC Administrative Secretary mcc@chorus.net Lisa Johnsen MCC Clerical Assistant mcclisa@tds.net Anthony Dispanet MCC Maintenance mccanthony@tds.net MCC Custodians Community Support Network Clients

Office Hours: Monday – Thursday 9:00am – 2:00pm

Phone: 608-836-1455

MCC Logo Design Lucetta Kanetzke

Personnel Committee Ellen Lindgren Todd Holman Jean Einerson Donna Leet Lynn Breedlove

MCC Vision-Tending Nancy Getz Al Heggen Dorothea Torstenson Arden Mahlberg

Our Partnership– Madison Christian Community

Advent Lutheran ( Evangelical Lutheran Church in America) and Community of Hope (United Church of Christ) are partners in Christ. Together we are the Madison Christian Community (MCC).

We share education for all ages, youth activities, building space, fellowship groups and efforts to preserve the land.

We worship together about 8–12 times a year. Community of Hope is an Open and Affirming congregation and Advent is a Reconciled in Christ congregation.

We welcome people of all ages, denominational backgrounds,

MCC Purpose Statement The Purpose of the Madison Christian Community is to live faithfully and lovingly with God,

Neighbor and Creation.

Find Us Online Our website: www.madisonchristiancommunity.org Read or Listen to Sunday sermons! Worship Assistant’s Schedule The Good Word Newsletter Sunday School News Photos Calendar of Events Are you on our email list? To get the latest news, email Kaisa at mcc@chorus.net

COMING EVENTS

May 1 LUUG Meeting, 5:30pm Reading the Bible Discussion, 6:45pm May 2 MCC Quilting Day, 9am May 3 Chime Choir Rehearsal, 6:00pm CoH Worship Team, 6:00pm Harvest of Hope Meeting, 7:00pm May 9 MCC Morning Bible Study, 9:30am May 10 CoH Women’s Breakfast at Hubbard Ave Diner, 7:00am Confirmation, 6:00-8:30pm May 11 INSPIRE, 8:00pm May 12 Afternoon Bible Study at Oakwood Village University Woods, 1:30pm May 15 MCC Leadership Team, 7:00-8:30pm

May 16 MCC PURLS, 10:30am May 18 Advent Third Thursday Lunch Bunch at the Prairie Café, 11:30am May 20 Archer Dauck Baptism, 3:30pm May 21 Adult Discussion, formerly “Parent Hour,” 9:00am Sundae Sunday: Celebration Worship and Church Picnic May 22 Faith, Sexism, & Justice, 7:00pm May 23 OPALS @ MCC, 1:30pm Prairie Roots Jam, 6:30-8:30pm May 24 CoH Women’s Breakfast at Hubbard Ave Diner, 7:00am 55+ Potluck Group, 12:00pm Confirmation, 6:00-8:30pm