THIS IS JUST SOME OF OUR STAFF… BUT THEY REPRESENT ALL IN SAYING

MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM ALL OF US AT FIRST!

WELCOME TO CHRISTMAS EVE WORSHIP AT FIRST LUTHERAN!Blessed with great musicians, strong leadership and a beautiful worship space, it is truly our pleasure to welcome you here for the celebration of the birth of the Christ child! As we emphasize the invitation that all are welcome to “Come to the Table” we are happy that you and yours are joining us at the altar table where God

promises to be present. We also trust God is with you wherever you go, including your own tables at home. May your feasts, conversations, reunions and celebrations remind you that God’s grace is born for you and for us all through Jesus.

Please take the time to consider how you may engage with First

Lutheran in 2016—whether in a small group, a faith formational class or by finding ways to serve your neighbor. Look through this Christmas handout to see what we’re planning to do this winter and spring. Join us and again, we’re glad you’re here!

Pastor Stanton & Pastor Karyn

CONNECT WITH FIRST LUTHERAN! Check out our website at

www.FirstLutheranOnalaska.org to learn about our programs and

staff, to see our events calendar or the latest newsletter (and so much more).

You can also stop by the Connecting Point near the

main doors in the narthex or give us a call to find out how to

connect with First!

FAITH ALIVE! RESOURCE CENTER

Looking for a great gift or stocking stuffer? Want to dig a little deeper in your personal faith journey? Need a way to open up faith

discussion in your family? Stop by our Faith Alive! Resource

Center. With books, music, and tools available for purchase to

help enhance your faith journey, it’s worth it to take a moment

to stop and check it out!

DEC

EMBER

2015Merry Christmas

First Lutheran welcomes all people to participate in Christ’s mission through our ministries, worship, and programs—whether you are a member or not. Membership does, however, benefit both those new to us and our congregation.By choosing to become a member, individuals and families commit to being part of a shared mission—and in one way, answer Jesus’ call to “come follow me.” We get to know you, and can more easily provide you with ministry opportunities and invitations to offer your gifts to the rest of this family of faith.We offer several new-member sessions each year to acquaint new members with First and a small group of other newcomers.Our next new-member session will be on Sunday, January 17, 11:45am–2:30pm. Lunch is provided. Please call the church office at 608.783.2236 to register. New member Sunday is January 24.

Membership Education

B a p t i s m C l a s s e sParents who wish to bring their children for baptism or adults who

wish to be baptized are asked to attend a baptism class. The next baptism class is Saturday, February 6, at 10am. Contact the church to register:

608.783.2236 / office@firstlu.org

S u n d ay S c h o o lClasses meet for ages 3 years old to 5th grade, with confirmation classes for 6th & 7th grade. Classes meet Sunday mornings from 9:15–10:15am. If you would like more information, contact Sunday School Superintendents Sheri Betz and Tawni O’Rourke at sundayschool@firstlu.org

C o n f i r m a t i o nConfirmation for 8th- & 9th-graders begins each September; small groups meet on Wednesday evenings at 7pm and classes are throughout the week. Contact Pastor Karyn with any confirmation questions: karyn@firstlu.org.

L i t t l e L e a p s Please join us to discover ways that your young family can better share faith practices in your home. This is a time for children ages 0-3 years old AND their parents to come and play together, dance together, pray together and learn about faith development even among our youngest Christians. We meet on the last Sunday of each month from 9:15–10:15am in room 102. Come with your own child, your grandchildren, your godchildren, or even your neighborʼs children. Our next get-together is Sunday, January 31. Hope to see you there!

F i r s t L u t h e r a n P re s c h o o lFirst Lutheran Preschool provides developmentally appropriate early childhood education in a warm child-centered Christian environment. We offer Christian preschool sessions in the morning on Mon/Wed/Fri, Tue/Thur and Monday-Friday for ages 30 months and up. We are also a partner with the Onalaska School District, and we are a site for the 4-year-old preschool (4K). 4K runs Monday-Friday in the morning and includes busing. In addition there is Lunch Bunch Monday-Friday.Take a tour at our open house on Thursday, March 10! Call or email First Lutheran Preschool Director Melissa Rolbiecki with any questions: 608.779.4504 / preschool@firstlu.orgCheck us out on Facebook: facebook.com/flponalaska

COMMUNION CARDS are inserted into this handout. They are not required to participate in Holy Communion, but they help us know who is worshiping with us. Please fill out a communion card and hand it to an usher just before communion, or place it in an offering plate. Thanks!

Holy Communion First Lutheran Church, Onalaska WI All are welcome to the Lord’s Table where

we believe Christ is truly present through

wine and bread. This includes children,

as parents choose, and Christians of all other denominations.□ Member(s)□ Veteran□ In need of a Stephen Minister

□ Interested in becoming a Stephen Minister

□ Visitor(s): Please complete other side alsoToday’s Date: Name(s):

□ NOTE FOR: □ Pastors □ Church Offi ce

□ PRAYER REQUEST □ VISIT REQUEST

Requested by:

Small GroupsSmall-group studies abound at First Lutheran! We are happy to get you connected to a group that can meet your schedule or interest.

The Story It’s not too late to join this small group which meets in the Mary room between services, 9:15am, on Sunday mornings. Journey through the Bible by watching a video and discussing with your group. A DVD-based walk through the Bible, which reads like a novel.

Courageous Men Men are welcome to join this group, which meets Wednesdays at 6:00am at the house. In January, we will start a study of Sun Stand Still, by Steven Furtick.

Coffee with Pastor Karyn

• Wednesdays at 6:30am at Panera• Open to all

Currently studying the gospel of Luke. The group rotates between studying books of the Bible and reading about other topics of social concern.

Small group study

starting again by popular demand

Thursday nights 6–8pm

January 14 through

March 31

Sundays at 9:15am In the Upper Room (rm 201)As people of God, we know that the children God trusts us to raise are precious gifts. How are we giving and receiving support to each other as we answer this call? The basis for First Lutheranʼs Parent Share is simple. As parents, we all have shared experiences of joy and frustration. There is no one person who holds all the answers for ʻperfect ̓parenting. Instead God has given us the gift of community. When we come together over a cup of coffee and agree to set aside our judgments, open our hearts and share our learned wisdom we will experience the Holy Spiritʼs guiding hand in this journey we call parenting. There is no lesson plan, agenda or curriculum. For our parent share, we simply come together to pray and talk about raising our children faithfully. Join Carla Stanton while the kids are at Sunday School. The nursery is available, too, for all the pre-Sunday School aged kids. We hope to see you there!

Why are my kids so different from me? Join with other parents in a 5-week small group to discover

your parenting personality type using the Enneagram,

and explore how your personality affects your

parenting style. Knowing Me Knowing Them by Tracy Tresidder, Margaret Loftus, and Jacqui Pollock will help you learn how to connect and stay connected with your children, whether

they are newborns or adult children. Grandparents will find it helpful too. Led by Carla Stanton, this group will meet Sunday nights,

April 3–May 8, 6:30–8pm.

For more info about any of these small groups, contact our

Director of Small Group Ministry, Bridget Crave: bridget@firstlu.org

Young Youth MP3 Night!(Movie, Pizza, Pajamas and Popcorn!)

Featuring the movie: The SandlotFriday January 22nd, 5-8pm

Why? To have fun and build faith-based relationships!!! Wear your most comfy pajamas and bring a sleeping bag

and pillow to lounge on if you like. RSVP at facebook.com/firstlu/events

or email katie@firstlu.org.

EVERY !

MS Winter Wonderland Olympics

Middle schoolers will compete in a series of “Winter Wonderland” olympic

events. Alliances will be formed and broken. Trophies will be awarded. Lives

will be forever changed. Bring your game face!

Saturday, January 9 @ 6:30–8:30

Sugar Creek

High School RetreatJanuary 15-17

7pm Friday to 1pm SundayYou asked for it you got it! A retreat designed just for high school aged

youth! Attend as a youth group, bring a friend, or just come and join in the fun!

This high-energy retreat will be filled with great music, faith-building time, and lots

of surprises! The January retreat can include extreme snow fun!

Cost: $75. Scholarships available. Register with Tina: tina@firstlu.org

HS MOVIE NIGHT!Are you a movie buff? High schoolers,

come teach Tina your ways! We will get together once a month to watch a movie

and discuss after. Bring popcorn to share!

Saturday, January 23 @ 6–8:30pm

HS Fancy Feast Fellowship

Put on your fancy pants and come eat some food! We will eat together, talk

about very classy things, and drink tea with our pinkies up.

Saturday, January 30 @ 5:30-8:00

Mt. LaCrosse Ski DaySunday, February 7, 1–6pm Sign up at the Connecting Point Table. This year to receive a discounted price for your lift ticket:• Checks for payment need to be

provided to Tina in advance by Tuesday, February 2

• Checks need to be written out to ENGLISH Lutheran

Lift ticket packages and pricing:• Lift Ticket: $19• Lift Ticket and Ski Rental: $24• Lift Ticket and Board Rental: $34

All packages include group lesson for ages 10+ (lesson starts at 1pm sharp) and lunch (hot dog, chips and soda).

HS YOUTH GROUP!Every Sunday evening there will be a youth group meeting at 6:30–8:30pm. High school youth can come hang out in a time of fellowship, food, games, and learning.

Contact Tina with any questions: tina@firstlu.org / 605.431.3421

Caring

Ministries

Stephen MinistryStephen Ministry equips lay people to provide distinctively Christian, one-on-one care to those in our congregation and in our community who are experiencing all kinds of life needs and circumstances. Stephen Ministers receive 50 hours of initial training in important caring ministry skills and concepts and are then commissioned to service. Participants in past classes regularly describe this ministry as life changing—for the one who is served, but especially for the Stephen Minister serving. If you know of someone who needs a care giver, speak with Pastor Karyn, or call the church office.

Caring ConnectionsBe part of this wonderful ministry, which offers support and friendship to our young-adult members. Simply select a manila envelope for one of our young adults; available for pick-up in the narthex. More info at firstlu.org/caringconnections.

VisitationWe know it is difficult for some members to get to church because of health or mobility issues. If you or someone in your family would like to be visited or want to receive communion, call the church office at 608.783.2236.

W i n t e r F u n D ay sJan. 10, 24, Feb. 14, 28 1–5pmThese fun afternoons at Sugar Creek include snow tubing (they have the tubes), cross country skiing, ice skating, broom ball, snow shoeing, relaxation by the fire, hot chocolate, good food, and fun with friends! Bring the whole family!RSVP at 608.734.3113 or camp@sgrcreek.org.

C o u p l e s ’ R e t re a tFebruary 12–14Enrich your relationship with your spouse and enjoy some time away together at Sugar Creek. You will share in some wonderful meals, fun activities, and a program designed to strengthen your relationship. You will stay in one of our beautiful log cabins or a private room in our Koinonia Lodge.Go to www.sugarcreekbiblecamp.org for event brochure and registration form.

13141 Sugar Creek Bible Camp Rd, Ferryville, WI 54628

608.734.3113 • camp@sgrcreek.org

BIRTHDAY PARTY

FOR JESUS!The first Sunday

after Christmas, December 27, we will have a

Birthday Party for Jesus during the education hour!

ALL AGES WELCOME! If you are able to

volunteer or help with this event please e-mail sundayschool@firstlu.org

“Early one morning, for no earthly reason, Sara Miles, raised an atheist, wandered into a church, received communion and found herself transformed—embracing a faith she’d once scorned.” What power—if any—does the meal at communion have? Does a mainline congregation have anything relevant to offer a 21st century person? Is transformation possible or does the phrase, “It is what it is” sum up all truth?

Throughout the season of Lent, which begins early this year, on February 10, First Lutheran will divide into small groups for a six-week study where we’ll read Sara Miles’ book: Take This Bread. Each week at worship on the Wednesdays during Lent we will (in addition to singing Holden Evening Prayer) hear a reading of how Jesus shaped communities through food. In small

groups we will not only consider those readings, but a chunk of Miles’ book as well.

Whether you are a ‘veteran’ of Lent small groups or have been looking for a way to connect with others at First, or are simply interested in the place of food in our spiritual lives, please join the hundreds who have read and discussed Scripture and books during Lent in the past. Starting in January, simply sign up online through our website or at the Connecting Point. Various days of the week and times of day are available. Just pick the day and time that works best for you.

Together we will not only discover better answers, but better questions so that as we, “Take This Bread” we may lead lives that more obviously reflect the abundant grace of God.

VITERBO RECEIVES $134,570 LILLY ENDOWMENT HIGH SCHOOL

YOUTH THEOLOGY INITIATIVE GRANT

Viterbo University has received a $134,570 grant to develop and establish a Franciscan Social Justice Youth Theology Institute. The grant is part of Lilly Endowment Inc.’s High School Youth Theology Institute initiative, which is designed to encourage young people to explore theological traditions, ask questions about the moral dimensions of contemporary issues, and examine how their faith calls them to lives of service.Viterbo’s Franciscan Social Justice Youth Theology Institute will be a week-long immersive experience for high school students entering grades 10–12 that will include service, personal reflection, scripture lessons and discussion, and of course, fun. It is scheduled to begin in summer 2016.Read more at 1stlu.org/1k9veCw

Bobby LevingerRecital on Tuesday

December 29 7pm

more info more info

daveramsey.com/findaclass daveramsey.com/findaclass

Your money. Your story. Your life. EVERYTHING! This changes

Your money. Your story. Your life. EVERYTHING! This changes

Learn God’s ways of handling money with Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University! The average turnaround is $8,000 in just the fi rst three months!

Learn God’s ways of handling money with Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University! The average turnaround is $8,000 in just the fi rst three months!

Enter your class date/time/locationand contact information here.

Enter your class date/time/locationand contact information here.

We all need a plan for our money. Dave’s class will show you how to get rid of debt,

manage your money, spend and save wisely, and much more!

This is a nine-week course that starts January 3, from 6–7:30pm at First Lutheran!Tickets: fi rstlu.org/fi nancialpeace

Caroline WorraOpera star, daughter of First Lutheran, Onalaska native, & graduate of Luther.

Performing on the Viterbo stage Saturday, March 12

Tickets are on sale: LaCrosseSymphony.org

608.783.2121

At First Lutheran Tues., Feb. 2, 7pm

Confronting Racism:

A Holy Yearning

Join ELCA Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton and William B. Horne II, as they continue their

conversation on racism— a violation of God’s

intention for humanity—in another live webcast. Eaton and Horne will be

joined by other ELCA members who bring various perspectives on the U.S. criminal

justice system.First Lutheran will be showing this

webcast when it airs live on Thursday,

January 14 at 8pm.RSVP to

office@firstlu.org or scan the QR code

below. Learn more at:

firstlu.org/webcast

Genevieve AndersonIn memory of: Russell Anderson

Doris BaumIn memory of: Fred Bohl

Nancy BeguinIn memory of: Parents John & Helen Doerring, and brothers Keith & Raymond DoerringIn honor of: Granddaughters Sarah, Emily & Jessica Beguin, and grandson Billy Heron

Shelley Benusa & familyIn memory of: Shelly’s dad Dave YolitzIn honor of: Shelley’s mom Darlene Yolitz

Randy & Lauri BergIn memory of: Randy’s parents, Lloyd & Janice Berg

Wayne & Pat BlanchardIn memory of: Mr. & Mrs. R.W. Blanchard; Mr. & Mrs. Henry Affeldt

Jan BolstadIn memory of: My husband RogerIn honor of: My family

Rhonda Bryhn & Rob McGaffIn memory of: Andrew William Bryhn-McGaff

Ed & Barb BurrellIn memory of: Parents Leonard & Beverly Olson; daughter-in-law Lisa Dutton

Judy & Terry ButzmanIn honor of: Our children Alisha & Ryan, Adam & Hannah; our granddaughter Madelyn Gregg

David & Dianne DalgleishIn memory of: Mother Edna Pemberton

Mark & Jill DavidsonIn memory of: Barbara Davidson; David DavidsonIn honor of: Our children Clara, Madeline, Caleb & Ben Davidson

Deb DingerIn memory of: John Engebrecht; Tuffy & Toddy Engebrecht

Diane Engebrecht & Marie Tutlewski

In memory of: Tuffy & Toddy Engebrecht and John EngebrechtIn honor of: Arlan & Leona Gilbertson and Kayla & Jasmine Tutlewski

Dennis & Mary EveryIn memory of: Jake Jacobson; Clayton EveryIn honor of: Grandchildren Jackson Every & Riley Every

Dorothy Every & familyIn memory of: Clayton EveryIn honor of: Grandchildren and great-grandchildren

Anne FarningIn memory of: Max Farning

Kris FranziniIn memory of: My dad Roger JohnsonIn honor of: My children Allison & Alea and my mom Judy

Sheila, Nicholas & Christian HandahlIn memory of: Mark Handahl; Arno & Jeanette Timm; Joann Handahl

Arnie & Nancy HolthausIn memory of: Our parents, Frid & Nellie Holthaus, and Ed & Florence PinkerIn honor of: Our children & 5 granddaughters

Tom & Meredith Hougen, Sarah (Hougen) Payne & Erica Hougen

In memory of: Our parents/grandparents Ray & Carol Marcum and Alton Hougen, Clarice & Sig Shove

Larry & Lori HougomIn memory of: Peyton Lee Erling Hougom; Lawrence & Jennie Olds; Donald & Cleo Card; Myron & Izro Hougom; Lawrence & Alice HansonIn honor of: Cody & Colton Hougom; Gary & Nancy Olds; LeRoy & Charlotte Hougom

fl owersThank you to all who donated the fl owers

adorning our sanctuary this Christmas season

Curt JacobsonIn memory of: My dad Maynard “Jake” JacobsonIn honor of: My mom Marion Jacobson

Verna JergensIn memory of: Glenn Jergens, Mr. & Mrs. John Gilbertson

Judy JohnsonIn memory of: My husband Roger; Elizabeth Circle members Dee, Orlean & LaMaeIn honor of: My children & grandchildren; the Elizabeth Circle

Doug & Diane JorstadIn memory of: Harold & Lois Moe, Dorothy JorstadIn honor of: Jerome & Lenora Jorstad

Jan KleinIn memory of: Wendy Klein, Skip Klein

Mark & Deb KoenigIn memory of: Our parents, Miles & Patricia, Delores & Leonard

Bev Larson & Bob DeanIn memory of: Ruth Dyer

Gary & Brenda LassIn honor of: Our children Kelsey, Jordan & Samantha

Carroll LombardIn memory of: Doyle Lombard & his parents, William & Amelia Lombard; and Carroll Lombard’s parents, Sever & Esther Fortney

The LunneysIn memory of: Carol JohnsonIn honor of: Papa & Marge, the Skibbas, Rachel Lynn & Dylan, Garet & Hannah

Pat, Dylan, Rachel, Aaron, Hannah, Isaiah & Pearl Lunney

In honor of: Lori Lunney

Ryan & Charlie MackebenIn memory of: Grandpa Mike Klein

Ruth MahlumIn memory of: Sylvan Mahlum

Bruce & Cindy MathewIn memory of: Izzy Mathew, Katie Schmidt, Mary Zielke

Lowell & Mary MeierIn memory of: Daniel Lee Meier

Art, Kori & Carter Melby, Sandi Thompson-Melby

In memory of: Galen Thompson, Cora Melby

Brian & Mary Ann NarvesonIn memory of: Levern Narveson, Erlis & Joyce Lemley

Randy & Roxann NedreloIn memory of: Parents Ron & Joan Nedrelo; Jack Schulner; Larry Schulner; grandparents Severina & George Schulner; Marie & Vern Norrish; Johanna & Emil Helgerson; Alfred & Mary NedreloIn honor of: Carol Schulner

Steve & Mary Jo NetwalIn memory of: Don & Alta Netwal, Gerald & Mary Weber, Joe & Edna Sagen, Tom Koch-Betsy Sotka

Nancy & Gary OldsIn memory of: Peyton Lee Erling Hougom, Lawrence & Jennie Olds, Erma Olds, Don & Cleo Card, Sue Tarner, Robert WilliamsIn honor of: Lori, Larry, Cody & Colton Hougom; Steve Harrison; Jennifer & Tanner Olds; Paul & Pam & Tucker Petersen

Bonne Fidika OlsonIn memory of: My parents Paul & Hazel Fidika

Jen Peterson & Geri JohnsonIn memory of: Father Gary Pratt and grandmother Regina Pratt

Clay & Ginny PollertIn memory of: Ginny’s mother, Nora OlafsonIn honor of: Ginny’s sister, Connie Stevens

Jack & Mary Ann RedfearnIn memory of: Our son Bobby

Kay RisbergIn honor of: my family, Kate, Randy & Trevor

Chris & Jessica RohdeIn memory of: George Rohde, Ken Stratman, Mary Pralle

Dave & Cherie RohdeIn memory of: Carol JacobsonIn honor of: Lee Jacobson, Ted Rohde, Bev Rohde

Matt & Rhonda RudeIn memory of: Ira Kauffman; Virginia & Robert RudeIn honor of: Lorna Kauffman

Brian & Teri SandersIn memory of: Our grandparents Ernest & Helen Sanders, Ronald & Eunice Bell, Clarence & Eleanor Moe, Rex & Muriel Timm

Larry & Marilyn SchreinerIn memory of: Larry & Georgia Schreiner, Lucille GallerIn honor of: Wes & Mary Paulus

Carol & Gary SkoyIn memory of: Our parents; our unborn grandchildrenIn honor of: Our children and grandchildren

Paula Skoy & Travis EvensonIn memory of: Our children in heaven Jay & AleeIn honor of: Our son Greg

John & Deb TownerIn memory of: Helen Towner, mother of John, Jeff & Karen; Vivian Balduc, mother of Deb Towner

Ardith Van RiperIn memory of: Don Van Riper, Palma Suiter, Helen Van Riper

Tim & Jan WellsIn memory of: Our parentsIn honor of: Our grandchildren, Megan, Grace, Ethan, Rachel, Gwen

Molly, Jack, Sage & Sue WiemanIn memory of: Terry Wieman, Robert Bagniewski

Dr. & Mrs. Allen WittchowIn memory of: Richard & Tina Osterberg; Reuben & Helen Wittchow

Pamela & Roger WolfertIn memory of: Catherine Wolfert; Meghan Bye; Bill Sterling; Charlie & Helen Reik

Bob & Katy WoodIn memory of: Our parents Keith & Loretta Wood, and Allison & Marjorie Cecil

Kyle, Melanie, Kennedy & Merrick Zitzner

In memory of: Orland SisbachIn honor of: Darlene Sisbach

Fritz & Louise ZoerbIn memory of: Karl Frederic Zoerb

THIS WEEK: December 24–January 1December 24–January 1THUR 24 OFFICE CLOSES AT NOON

2:00pm Christmas Eve Worship4:00pm Christmas Eve Worship6:00pm Christmas Eve Worship6:15pm NarAnon - FS11:00pm Christmas Eve Worship

FRI 25 OFFICE CLOSED9:00am Christmas Day Worship7:00pm AA - FS

SUN 27 8:00am Worship9:15am Little Leaps - Rm 1029:15am Parent Share - Upper Rm9:15am The Story Small Group - Mary Rm9:15am Birthday Party for Jesus! - FH10:30am Worship11:45am Youth Praise Band Rehearsal - SN

MON 28 7:00pm AA - FSTUES 29 9:00am Quilters - FS

9:30am Staff Mtg5:30pm Bell Choir Rehearsal7:00pm Bobby Levinger Recital

WED 30 6:00am Courageous Men’s Bible Study - House6:30am Coffee with Pastor Karyn - Panera9:00am Newsletter Assembly - NX5:15pm Knitters - NX6:15pm Worship

THUR 31 6:15pm NarAnon - FSFRI 1 OFFICE CLOSED

7:00pm AA - FH ROOM KEY:CR = Choir Room FH = Fellowship Hall FS = Fireside Room NX = Narthex SN = Sanctuary TR = Thomas RoomFor more information, visit our website at www.FirstLutheranOnalaska.org

Mt. LaCrosse Ski Day

Sun, February 71–6pm

Baptismal PrepSat, February 6

10am–Noon

HS Movie Night!Sat, January 23

6:30–8:30pm

New Member Session

Sun, January 1711:45am–2pm

Gifts of ImperfectionThur, January 14

6–8pm

Clothes Closet HostInfo Meeting

Wed, January 137pm

Drawing from the Well

Sat, January 98:30am–1:30pm

Financial PeaceUniversity

Sun, January 36–7:30pm

UPCOMING EVENTS AT FIRST

Use these QR Codes to quickly add our upcoming events to the calendar of your smart phone or tablet.

TIPS: focus the code, hold the device still, try various distances, & use good lighting.

Need a scanning app? Try Scan.Me or QR Code Reader.

ROOM KEY:CR = Choir Room FS = Fireside Room FH = Fellowship HallNX = Narthex SN = Sanctuary TR = Thomas Room

For more info, visit our website at www.FirstLutheranOnalaska.org

JOIN US FOR WORSHIP Worship continues on Christmas day at 9am, and includes Holy Communion. We worship again on Sunday at 8am or 10:30am, with a special Birthday Party for Jesus, for all ages, between services at 9:15am in the fellowship hall.

SUNSHINE BOYSThe Sunshine Boys serve at First on the first Thursday of each month; the next meeting will be Thur., January 7, at 9am. The Sunshine Boys are an informal group that performs a variety of necessary tasks around the church; such as grounds clean-up, minor repairs, and other small jobs. Rolls and coffee are supplied to replenish your reserves! Dues are free! Contact Mike, our custodian, with any questions: mike@firstlu.org.

CLOTHES CLOSET APPOINTMENT HOSTS NEEDEDMake a difference in the community by hosting Teen Clothes Closet appointments. As an adult volunteer, you will be teamed with another host to welcome teens and their guardian/parent as they select clothing from the First Teen Clothes Closet located in the house. If you want to learn more, attend an information and training session Wednesday, January 13, at 7pm at the house. Sign up at firstlu.org/cchost or contact Bridget Crave,bridget@firstlu.org.

MT. LACROSSE SKI DAYSunday, February 7, 1–6pm View packages, pricing, and sign up at the Connecting Point Table. This year to receive a discounted price for your lift ticket:• Checks for payment need to be provided to

Tina in advance, by Tuesday, February 2• Checks need to be written out to ENGLISH Lutheran

All packages include group lesson for ages 10+ (lesson starts at 1pm sharp) and lunch (hot dog, chips and soda).

FIRST’S ANNUAL POTLUCK!Sunday, February 14, 11:45am All members are invited to First’s Annual Potluck where we will eat together and our kids will play together, all while the adults share our greatest faith stories from the past year. God is doing all kinds of things at First Lutheran, so our Annual Potluck will be a celebration of what has been and a look ahead to what will be. Save the date so you can share in the fun!

SERVE @ WORSHIP! OPENINGS FOR NEXT WEEK: Acolytes, Coffee Servers, Nursery Attendants, Puppet Volunteers, Treat Providers & Ushers For the above opportunities & many others sign up at the Connecting Point table or on your phone or computer at firstlu.org/assist

It takes the church community to help with all the different aspects of worship—making certain worship is welcoming and runs smoothly. Adults and youth are welcome and can serve in many ways. Sign up today at the Connecting Point and see Kathryn Pedretti, our Director of Servant Ministries, with any questions.

SERVING CHRISTMAS EVE: Pastor Jason Stanton, Pastor Karyn Bodenschatz Organist: Gabe Hicks; Nursery Attendant: Crystal Miller; Bread Baker: Ruth Leuck, Peggy Daleki, Lori Lunney, Bev LarsonCHRISTMAS EVE, 2:00pmGreeters: Sig & Marilyn Rudser, the Christnovich family; Acolytes: Ethan Whiteaker, Alex Gibbs; Communion Servers: Paula Skoy, Travis Evenson, Bridget Crave, Glen Vilim, Todd Lofald, Shaun Gibbs; Reader: Carol Skoy; Ushers: Brandon Robison, Mark & Deb Koenig, Bob Dean, the Melby family; Projectionist: Randy Nedrelo CHRISTMAS EVE, 4:00pmGreeters: the Madsen family, the Kranig family; Communion Servers: Aaron McDonald, Terry Lee, Steve Thomas, Mary Ann Redfearn, Ron & Renee Thies; Reader: Linda Green; Ushers: Dave & Barb Skogen, the Thomas family; Projectionist: Doug Shupe CHRISTMAS EVE, 6:00pmGreeters: the Rohde family, the Breiling family; Communion Servers: Joel Miller, Jill Hanson, Carla Stanton; Reader: Jill Hanson; Ushers: Phyllis Bey, Randy & Lauri Berg, the McGaff family; Projectionist: Brian Wittkop CHRISTMAS EVE, 11:00pmCommunion Servers: Jennifer Wiesjahn, Denny & Mary Every; Reader: Sharon Kjos; Usher: Marilyn Schreiner; Projectionist: Larry Schreiner SERVING CHRISTMAS DAY: Pastor Karyn Bodenschatz, Organist: Gabe Hicks; Nursery Attendant: Crystal Miller; Communion Server: Peggy & Dick Daleki; Reader: Peggy Daleki

FIRST LUTHERAN CHURCH410 Main St, Onalaska WI 54650www.FirstLutheranOnalaska.org office@firstlu.org608.783.2236 • Fax: 608.783.3741Office hours: Monday–Friday 8am–4pm

READINGS For Christmas Eve, December 24Birth of Jesus, Luke 2:1-14 (15-20) Pew Bible: p. 832, Spark Bible: p. 1130

For Christmas Day, December 25Shepherds Visit, Luke 2:8-20 Pew Bible: p. 833, Spark Bible: p. 1130

PRAYERS & CAREHospital: Joyce Olson, Devera YonkovichHome: Carolyn Skogen, Don HickokCelebrations: on the birth of Aspen Jo Willinger, daughter of Wade & Teesha WillingerSympathy to the family and friends of Howard Anderson (husband of Mary Etta, father of Diane Shuda), and John Olson (husband of Katherine Olson)Global Missionary: Aliyah Richling, serving in HungaryPlease contact the office if you have any prayers to be lifted up: office@firstlu.org or 608.783.2236

NURSERY AVAILABLEMembers and visitors: our nursery is available for children newborn through age 4. The nursery is staffed Sunday mornings during and between services, and on Wednesday evenings during service and programming. Please bring your diaper bag. It will also be staffed during some church events and will be advertised as such when available. We hope you take advantage of our services while here at First.

HOSPITAL REMINDERSFor Gundersen: be sure to alert the hospital of your church affiliation when they ask and they will then release your name to us when we call. For Mayo/Franciscan Healthcare: it is important that you or a family member contact us directly at the church office: 608.783.2236. Mayo no longer gives out information regarding who is hospitalized.

STAFFSenior Pastor: Jason Stanton • jason@firstlu.org • 608.386.6431Associate Pastor: Karyn Bodenschatz • karyn@firstlu.org • 608.433.6002Director of Servant Ministries: Kathryn Pedretti • kathryn@firstlu.orgSunday School Supt.: Sheri Betz & Tawni O’Rourke • sundayschool@firstlu.orgYoung Youth Coord.: Katie Everson • katie@firstlu.orgDirector of Discipleship for Youth: Tina Nelson • tina@firstlu.orgDirector of Small Group Ministry: Bridget Crave • bridget@firstlu.orgCommunications & Marketing Coord.: Andrew Stutesman • andy@firstlu.orgHead Custodian: Mike Peper • mike@firstlu.org

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLEPlease take time before worship & go to the narthex to write down any prayers you want to lift up, so we

can be certain to include them in worship today!

THE CROSSCome to the Table is our theme and mantra this year as we explore what it means to be shaped by a story of welcome and salvation. From our kitchen tables, to the altar table, to the community table we bear the light of Christ and tell the story of God’s great love. The story of God’s love is told most powerfully through the cross, where our sins are forgiven and we are granted salvation. The cross at the back of the sanctuary was created by our own broken dishes, a symbol of our brokenness that is made whole through the cross. This cross, equal in all sides, reminds us that no matter what table we come from, we are equally sinful and equally made whole by the death and resurrection of Jesus.

SHARE THE SUNDAY SCHOOL CHRISTMAS PROGRAMIf you share those photos of your cuties in the Sunday School Christmas program on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, we invite you to share your experience using the hashtag #faithaliveinOna.

SCRIP CARDSDo you shop at Walmart, Target, Amazon? These and hundreds of other stores are a part of our youths’ scrip fundraising program, and you can support youth ministry at first by using gift cards instead of cash. A percentage of your shopping will help youth pay for mission trips, camp trips and other youth ministry events. It costs nothing to you—we just need you to change how you pay. Contact Tina at tina@firstlu.org to find out more. Or go to firstlu.org/scrip and register today!

CHRISTMAS GIVINGIn this season of gift-giving to family, friends and those less fortunate, we hope you will also consider your gift to First Lutheran. It is through the donations of every individual and family in the congregation that we are able to carry on our work. You can use our online Simply Giving option for both regular offerings and one-time gifts. To help us achieve a more consistent level of funding, we encourage you to use the online Simply Giving option for your regular offerings. Go to firstlu.org/giving to make a donation or find out more details, or contact the church office at 608.783.2236 or office@firstlu.org to learn more. All of this and more on the web at www.FirstLutheranOnalaska.org. See also:

facebook.com/firstlu twitter.com/1stlu firstlu.tumblr.com pinterest.com/firstlu

2.firstlu.org/cal issuu.com/firstluI instagram.com/1stlu#faithaliveinOna

Share your faith alive experience! Use hashtag #faithaliveinOna

PEACE CRANESFor centuries the crane has been a symbol of good health and good luck and longevity. After the bomb dropped in Hiroshima, a legend arose of a young girl dying from radiation poisoning. She set out to fold 1,000 cranes as way to get well and to promote peace. At her death she still had a little over 300 to fold, so her classmates honored her by folding the rest of the cranes. Now, there is a monument erected in Hiroshima in her honor and as a sign for peace. After 9/11, people from around the world sent peace cranes to the United States as a sign of solidarity and peace. During this season of Christmas, we have hung 1,000 peace cranes in our sanctuary as a way to welcome the Prince of Peace and as a sign for our continued work to promote peace in our world.