Whereas some churches create a

strategic plan to launch a building project, we—after

hearing from all of you—launched a

plan that seeks to build a staff.

That continues to be our focus

even with the opportunity to

enlarge our land holdings and poise

ourselves for greater expansion

at a later date.

2 Readings for April4 First Teen Clothes Closet Update5 Walk for Water at Valley View6 Announcements

6 Special Congregational Meeting7 Events Sugar Creek Events8 God’sHands&Feet Serve&Give9 Preschool Update

10 Sunday School VBS Save the Date11 Young Youth12 MiddleSchool&HighSchool

Update13 OWLs Post

14 Quick Add Events / QR Codes

All of this and more on the web at www.FirstLutheranOnalaska.org

SEE ALSO...

facebook.com/firstlu instagram.com/1stlupinterest.com/firstlu twitter.com/1stlu firstlu.tumblr.com 1stlu.org/cal

issuu.com/firstlu#faithaliveinOna

G O O D N E W S !A P R I L 2 016

MESSAGE FROM PASTOR STANTON

Back in February, our annual potluck led to our

annual meeting where we had a robust discussion about a number of topics. One issue was whether our congregation

should seek to purchase the ‘other’ house across Irvin Street. In 2011, we took advantage of an opportunity to purchase the house at 203 4th Ave South which has become a great location for small groups as well as providing space for the First Teen Clothes Closet that serves as our greatest outreach arm into the community. When 416 Irvin was listed for sale, many staff, leaders and neighbors wondered whether we were interested. As important as the result of our discussion was the process we followed in order to come to a decision.

First, our lead custodian, Mike Peper, and I asked our own Katie Wood to get us inside so we could get a feel for how the house might be used for our ministries. Our unanimous conclusion was that significant renovations would need to be made if we wanted to create office space, small group areas or anything else. Plus the house is listed at just under 1,000 square feet so there isn’t a great amount of space to begin with.

Another idea was to demolish the house and build a parking lot. Mike inquired with the city to find out what restrictions there may be. The lot itself is shaped in such a way that after allowing for the required setback for the neighbors to the south, a parking lot would create just 5 spaces.

What if we simply demolished the house and left it a green space? We could use it as an outdoor worship area, for First Fest, or enlarge the community garden. And maybe

this is just the first step in a multi-step process where we would purchase a number of properties Perhaps ten or twenty years from now, we could have space for a new building, or a new parking lot.

I was interested in hearing from the congregation. What dreams do you have for such a space? Do we need to seriously consider buying more land across the street? If so, for what? Is it worth the investment? After a few conversations with many of you, all these possibilities were brought to the Vision and Leadership Team for a special meeting. We considered the financial cost, the shape of our vision of the future for First and how realistic it is to think we will 1) grow in numbers and 2) grow in giving. There is, of course, no way to know what our needs will be 10 or 20 years from now. We do know that our worship attendance has been dipping over the last 18 months for reasons we can’t explain. And we also know that we are struggling to meet our giving goals again in 2016. So how do we feel about making a significant investment outside our budget and outside our five year strategic plan for something whose usefulness (by itself) is unclear?

In the end, after prayerful consideration, we voted to remain focused on our current strategic plan. At its core, the plan is most concerned with completing our staff and bringing our giving to a place where it can sustain that staff. A small group director, a full-time youth director, a stewardship consultant, a children’s choir director and eventually even an adults director are all in the plan. There are, of course, specific ideas about what our staff does. Job descriptions

INSIDE

Continues on page 3

Change is coming to THE LUTHERANThe March issue of The Lutheran magazine was the last under that name. Beginning with the April issue, the magazine will be called Living Lutheran and have a new look. A new website, LivingLutheran.org, will also debut in April. You can continue to expect a cover story and features that lift up the mission and ministries of our church. You can expect to receive news, info and resources. Some departments will continue while new ones will be added, including a family page, featured resources and digital media. The website will include articles from the print edition and original content, such as blogs and breaking news. The magazine will continue to belong to the members of the ELCA in all of their diversity and remain committed to providing a consistent editorial voice with integrity and high journalistic standards. Jocelyn Fuller, head of Strategic Communications, will be the magazine’sinterimeditor.

READINGS FOR APRIL

4/3 Sunday Acts 1:1-144/6 Wendesday John 20:19-314/10 Sunday Acts 3:1-104/13 Wendesday John 21:1-194/17 Sunday Acts 17:1-9; 1 Thess. 1:1-104/20 Wendesday John 10:22-304/24 Sunday Acts 18:1-4; I Cor. 1:10-184/27 Wendesday John 13:31-35Above are the tentative readings scheduled for April. Readings used during worship are determined by the pastors on a weekly basis, and therefore are subject to change.

LUTHERAN DISASTER RESPONSE

U.S. SPRING STORMS

Torrential rainfall, reaching more than 2 feet in some areas, is setting records in the South, especially Louisiana and Texas. River fl ooding has reached historic levels, affecting streets and highways, damaging or destroying homes, causing thousands to evacuate, and leaving at least fi ve dead. More storms are predicted across the Midwest and throughout the South in the days and weeks ahead.

Through congregations, synods and disaster affi liate organizations, Lutheran Disaster Response is working to assist those who have been affected by the fl ooding. Lutheran Disaster Response’s coordinators are present, working with local community leaders and

offi cials to begin planning the proper responses, particularly the long-term recovery efforts.

We know that the road to recovery is long, and we will be there to assist those who have been affected through every phase of this disaster recovery process. Your gifts are needed to begin relief efforts.

Gifts designated for “U.S. Spring Storms” will be used in full (100 percent) until the response is complete to assist those impacted. Because of your generous offerings of prayer and fi nancial support, the ELCA walks alongside disaster survivors. Thank you!

MARCH 2016 www.ELCA.org/disaster

Yes, I want to help! Lutheran Disaster Response: U.S. Spring Storms $_______DDG0074

Lutheran Disaster Response, U.S.: Where Needed Most $_______DDG0010

Name

Address

City State ZIP code

Email Address

Give through your congregation or make your check out toLutheran Disaster Response and send to:

Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, ELCA Gift Processing CenterP.O. Box 1809, Merrifi eld, VA 22116-8009

write “U.S. Spring Storms” or “Lutheran Disaster Response, U.S.”on your check’s memo line.

LUTHERAN DISASTER RESPONSE

U.S. SPRING STORMS

Torrential rainfall, reaching more than 2 feet in some areas, is setting records in the South, especially Louisiana and Texas. River fl ooding has reached historic levels, affecting streets and highways, damaging or destroying homes, causing thousands to evacuate, and leaving at least fi ve dead. More storms are predicted across the Midwest and throughout the South in the days and weeks ahead.

Through congregations, synods and disaster affi liate organizations, Lutheran Disaster Response is working to assist those who have been affected by the fl ooding. Lutheran Disaster Response’s coordinators are present, working with local community leaders and

offi cials to begin planning the proper responses, particularly the long-term recovery efforts.

We know that the road to recovery is long, and we will be there to assist those who have been affected through every phase of this disaster recovery process. Your gifts are needed to begin relief efforts.

Gifts designated for “U.S. Spring Storms” will be used in full (100 percent) until the response is complete to assist those impacted. Because of your generous offerings of prayer and fi nancial support, the ELCA walks alongside disaster survivors. Thank you!

MARCH 2016 www.ELCA.org/disaster

Yes, I want to help! Lutheran Disaster Response: U.S. Spring Storms $_______DDG0074

Lutheran Disaster Response, U.S.: Where Needed Most $_______DDG0010

Name

Address

City State ZIP code

Email Address

Give through your congregation or make your check out toLutheran Disaster Response and send to:

Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, ELCA Gift Processing CenterP.O. Box 1809, Merrifi eld, VA 22116-8009

write “U.S. Spring Storms” or “Lutheran Disaster Response, U.S.”on your check’s memo line.

#FaithAliveinOna April 2016 3

All in all, First Lutheran’s staff is as strong and

stable, creative and competent as I’ve

ever known and I’ve heard long-

time members tell me the same. It’s

an exciting time to be here.

are shifting and evolving to meet the needs and wants of the congregation and community. But whereas some churches create a strategic plan to launch a building project, we—after hearing from all of you—launched a plan that seeks to build a staff. That continues to be our focus even with the opportunity to enlarge our land holdings and poise ourselves for greater expansion at a later date.

I see the Plan working. Bridget Crave is supporting small groups and gathering new people into those groups in ways that are engaging our members in significant ways. I continue to believe that small groups are at the core of a vibrant future for First. In just six months, Tina Nelson has already developed some great relationships with kids and their parents from elementary through high school. First NEEDS a full-time youth director, and Tina is a gift from God. There are over a dozen people willing to tell stories as Mission Interpreters (you’ll know what these are soon). This ministry will be at the center of a renewed

effort to grow our financial and use-of-time stewardship. Pastor Karyn is growing into a new job description that emphasizes greater connections to individual member families. Kathryn Pedretti is renewing her passion in hospitality as we built a welcome center among many other ideas to be overtly hospitable. Our custodial staff is great. Our office support staff is excellent. All in all, First Lutheran’s staff is as strong and stable, creative and competent as I’ve ever known and I’ve heard longtime members tell me the same. It’s an exciting time to be here.

And so… we’ll keep working the plan. Perhaps in a couple years, when we write a new strategic plan, we’ll consider facility needs. Maybe we’ll need to grow. Maybe our attendance and giving and energy and vision will show how to make faithful use of some other space near us. But for now, we’re building a staff that seeks to challenge and nurture your faith development. Thank you to all who have asked about the house. And thank you to all who continue to support the plan!

FROM PASTOR STANTON, CONT. FROM PAGE 1

Pastor Jason Stanton jason@firstlu.org

Sign Up Today!

You can now sign up for all events, small groups, and service

opportunies on our website and on that computer in your pocket called a smart phone. Point it to 1stlu.org/signup.

Or use our tablet kiosk available at the Welcome Center. Not comfortable

with technology? No worries. Ask these

fine people below to help you sign up!

Kathryn Pedretti, Director of Hospitality

Andrew Stutesman, Communications & Marketing

4 April 2016 First Lutheran Church + Good News

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 aff ects 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 fi nd it helpful too.

Led by Carla Stanton, this group will meet Sunday nights, April 3–May 1, 6:30–8pm.

Sign up at 1stlu.org/knowing or scan the code:

While visits to the First Teen Clothes Closet

were down in the first few weeks of the year, by the end of January, our requests were back to normal, with 4 guests

in the last week of January and 20 guests during the month of February.

The time has been busy, though, with teens and other volunteers sorting donations and keeping an eye on the transition to spring and summer.

Tina Nelson, director of discipleship for youth, says her high school youth group has eagerly jumped in and enjoyed the time they have spent working in the Clothes Closet.

With spring approaching, the First Teen Clothes Closet is accepting prom dresses, but if you have one to donate, please do so very soon, as proms are nearly here. Other special needs currently are boys’ jeans, particularly 32x34 or 32.36 sizes, girls’ leggings, jewelry and purses. We will also be looking for summer clothes soon.

If you have questions about the Clothes Closet or are interested in volunteering, please contact the church office or speak with Bridget Crave or Lori Lunney.

First Teen Clothes Closet team,

Lori LunneyShari HeglandBridget CraveSara Larkin Tina Nelson

www.firstlu.org/clothesclosetcloset@firstlu.org

FIRST TEEN CLOTHES CLOSET UPDATE

“I like working there because it is great to

help out teenagers in our area and you

can do it with friends and have some fun while still making a

difference.”—Jake Weiland,

high school youth group member

“I like to work at the clothes closet

because you know you are helping

others who are less fortunate. Also you get to interact with

people who share a common interest in helping and giving

back.”—Laura Munson,

high school peer minister

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 aff ects 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 fi nd it helpful too.

Led by Carla Stanton, this group will meet Sunday nights, April 3–May 1, 6:30–8pm.

Sign up at 1stlu.org/knowing or scan the code:

ELCA WORLD HUNGER

WALK-FOR-WATER

WWW.ELCA.ORG/WALK4WATER

Sat., April 9, 10am–3pmat Valley View Mall

At the ELCA Youth Gathering in Detroit, July 15-19, 2015, youth and leaders will have the chance to gather their offerings and participate in an unforgettable walk designed to simulate the experience of collecting water miles away from home.

Not attending the Gathering? No problem. You can still be a part of this historic challenge by creating your own fundraising event in your congregation.

Checks may be mailed to: ELCA, Gift Processing Center, P.O. Box 1809, Merrifield, VA 22116-8009.

Please make your check payable to “ELCA World Hunger” and include “Walk for Water” in the memo line.

Visit www.ELCA.org/walk4water for more information.

This year, ELCA youth will join together to do something big, called ELCA World Hunger’s Walk for Water. The goal is to raise $500,000 for ELCA

World Hunger-supported water projects around the world.

Through these gifts, local communities will be equipped to provide water for drinking and cooking, growing crops, and improving sanitation and

hygiene, as well as ongoing health education, training and maintenance to support long-term access to water in the community. And, thanks to a

generous family in the ELCA, all gifts toward this goal will be matched – dollar for dollar – until we reach a grand total of $1 million!

Together, we make a difference – creating healthier families, stronger economies and a future filled with hope.

ELCA World Hunger’s Walk for Water

Get started now.

ELCAMA1264

At the ELCA Youth Gathering in Detroit, July 15-19, 2015, youth and leaders will have the chance to gather their offerings and participate in an unforgettable walk designed to simulate the experience of collecting water miles away from home.

Not attending the Gathering? No problem. You can still be a part of this historic challenge by creating your own fundraising event in your congregation.

Checks may be mailed to: ELCA, Gift Processing Center, P.O. Box 1809, Merrifield, VA 22116-8009.

Please make your check payable to “ELCA World Hunger” and include “Walk for Water” in the memo line.

Visit www.ELCA.org/walk4water for more information.

This year, ELCA youth will join together to do something big, called ELCA World Hunger’s Walk for Water. The goal is to raise $500,000 for ELCA

World Hunger-supported water projects around the world.

Through these gifts, local communities will be equipped to provide water for drinking and cooking, growing crops, and improving sanitation and

hygiene, as well as ongoing health education, training and maintenance to support long-term access to water in the community. And, thanks to a

generous family in the ELCA, all gifts toward this goal will be matched – dollar for dollar – until we reach a grand total of $1 million!

Together, we make a difference – creating healthier families, stronger economies and a future filled with hope.

ELCA World Hunger’s Walk for Water

Get started now.

ELCAMA1264

At the ELCA Youth Gathering in Detroit, July 15-19, 2015, youth and leaders will have the chance to gather their offerings and participate in an unforgettable walk designed to simulate the experience of collecting water miles away from home.

Not attending the Gathering? No problem. You can still be a part of this historic challenge by creating your own fundraising event in your congregation.

Checks may be mailed to: ELCA, Gift Processing Center, P.O. Box 1809, Merrifield, VA 22116-8009.

Please make your check payable to “ELCA World Hunger” and include “Walk for Water” in the memo line.

Visit www.ELCA.org/walk4water for more information.

This year, ELCA youth will join together to do something big, called ELCA World Hunger’s Walk for Water. The goal is to raise $500,000 for ELCA

World Hunger-supported water projects around the world.

Through these gifts, local communities will be equipped to provide water for drinking and cooking, growing crops, and improving sanitation and

hygiene, as well as ongoing health education, training and maintenance to support long-term access to water in the community. And, thanks to a

generous family in the ELCA, all gifts toward this goal will be matched – dollar for dollar – until we reach a grand total of $1 million!

Together, we make a difference – creating healthier families, stronger economies and a future filled with hope.

ELCA World Hunger’s Walk for Water

Get started now.

ELCAMA1264

ExperienceSaturday, April 9, at Valley View Mall.

ELCA World Hunger’s Walk for Water is an opportunity for youth and adults to experience fi rsthand what it is like to carry a 5-gallon jug of water (41.5 pounds)

through a simulated water collection experience. Throughout the simulation each person follows one of four “stories” to guide them along the track. Along the

way, participants are confronted with diff erent obstacles that help them realize some of the struggles those

walking for water may encounter.

At the ELCA Youth Gathering in Detroit, July 15-19, 2015, youth and leaders will have the chance to gather their offerings and participate in an unforgettable walk designed to simulate the experience of collecting water miles away from home.

Not attending the Gathering? No problem. You can still be a part of this historic challenge by creating your own fundraising event in your congregation.

Checks may be mailed to: ELCA, Gift Processing Center, P.O. Box 1809, Merrifield, VA 22116-8009.

Please make your check payable to “ELCA World Hunger” and include “Walk for Water” in the memo line.

Visit www.ELCA.org/walk4water for more information.

This year, ELCA youth will join together to do something big, called ELCA World Hunger’s Walk for Water. The goal is to raise $500,000 for ELCA

World Hunger-supported water projects around the world.

Through these gifts, local communities will be equipped to provide water for drinking and cooking, growing crops, and improving sanitation and

hygiene, as well as ongoing health education, training and maintenance to support long-term access to water in the community. And, thanks to a

generous family in the ELCA, all gifts toward this goal will be matched – dollar for dollar – until we reach a grand total of $1 million!

Together, we make a difference – creating healthier families, stronger economies and a future filled with hope.

ELCA World Hunger’s Walk for Water

Get started now.

ELCAMA1264

At the ELCA Youth Gathering in Detroit, July 15-19, 2015, youth and leaders will have the chance to gather their offerings and participate in an unforgettable walk designed to simulate the experience of collecting water miles away from home.

Not attending the Gathering? No problem. You can still be a part of this historic challenge by creating your own fundraising event in your congregation.

Checks may be mailed to: ELCA, Gift Processing Center, P.O. Box 1809, Merrifield, VA 22116-8009.

Please make your check payable to “ELCA World Hunger” and include “Walk for Water” in the memo line.

Visit www.ELCA.org/walk4water for more information.

This year, ELCA youth will join together to do something big, called ELCA World Hunger’s Walk for Water. The goal is to raise $500,000 for ELCA

World Hunger-supported water projects around the world.

Through these gifts, local communities will be equipped to provide water for drinking and cooking, growing crops, and improving sanitation and

hygiene, as well as ongoing health education, training and maintenance to support long-term access to water in the community. And, thanks to a

generous family in the ELCA, all gifts toward this goal will be matched – dollar for dollar – until we reach a grand total of $1 million!

Together, we make a difference – creating healthier families, stronger economies and a future filled with hope.

ELCA World Hunger’s Walk for Water

Get started now.

ELCAMA1264

At the ELCA Youth Gathering in Detroit, July 15-19, 2015, youth and leaders will have the chance to gather their offerings and participate in an unforgettable walk designed to simulate the experience of collecting water miles away from home.

Not attending the Gathering? No problem. You can still be a part of this historic challenge by creating your own fundraising event in your congregation.

Checks may be mailed to: ELCA, Gift Processing Center, P.O. Box 1809, Merrifield, VA 22116-8009.

Please make your check payable to “ELCA World Hunger” and include “Walk for Water” in the memo line.

Visit www.ELCA.org/walk4water for more information.

This year, ELCA youth will join together to do something big, called ELCA World Hunger’s Walk for Water. The goal is to raise $500,000 for ELCA

World Hunger-supported water projects around the world.

Through these gifts, local communities will be equipped to provide water for drinking and cooking, growing crops, and improving sanitation and

hygiene, as well as ongoing health education, training and maintenance to support long-term access to water in the community. And, thanks to a

generous family in the ELCA, all gifts toward this goal will be matched – dollar for dollar – until we reach a grand total of $1 million!

Together, we make a difference – creating healthier families, stronger economies and a future filled with hope.

ELCA World Hunger’s Walk for Water

Get started now.

ELCAMA1264

VolunteerHelp create a simulated water collection experience at Valley View Mall, like the Walk for Water experience at the 2015 National Youth Gathering!

First Lutheran will be helping from 9:45-11:00am, Sat. April 9. Contact Tina to help out:

tina@firstlu.org

ExperienceSaturday, April 9, 10am–3pm, at Valley View Mall.

ELCA World Hunger’s Walk for Water is an opportunity for youth and adults to experience firsthand what it is like to carry a 5-gallon jug of water (41.5 pounds)

through a simulated water collection experience. Throughout the simulation each person follows one of four “stories” to guide them along the track. Along

the way, participants are confronted with different obstacles that help them realize some of the struggles those walking for water may encounter.

6 April 2016 First Lutheran Church + Good News

ANNOUNCEMENTS

SPECIAL CONGREGATIONAL MEETINGA special congregational meeting has been called for April 3 and 6 following each worship service to formally approve the cost of improvements to the Fellowship Hall. All members are asked to be present for this short but important meeting.

MABEL ANDERSON SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATIONS AVAILABLECompleted applications are due no later than noon on April 8.Students may apply if they will graduate from high school in the spring and have plans to pursue post-secondary education. The application includes writing an essay and completing a worksheet that reflects the student’s involvement in church activities.The First Lutheran Foundation reviews applications and selects the recipients.Application forms are available through First Lutheran’s website, at the Welcome Center in the narthex, and at the church office.

BAPTISMAL PREPARATIONA baptism preparation session will be Saturday, April 2, at 10am in the narthex for anyone who is considering or has scheduled a baptism. To register or ask questions call the church office, 608.783.3326.

NEW-MEMBER SESSIONSFirst 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 our congregation. If you’re a member, we know your contact information, can more easily provide you with ministry opportunities and invite you to offer your gifts to the rest of this family of faith. The next new-member session will be Sunday, May 1, with new member Sunday on May 8. To register your family or ask questions, call our church office at 608.783.2236 or email office@firstlu.org.

WE CELEBRATE THE GIFT OF HOLY BAPTISM

• Max Daniel & Ava Lee Stevens, son & daughter of Chuck & Nicole Stevens

CHRISTIAN SYMPATHY TO THE FAMILY & FRIENDS OF:

• Donald Hickok, husband of Margaret Hickok

GIFTS AND MEMORIALSThank you for the following memorials:

In memory of Charlotte Hougom• Undesignated: Dennis & Mary Every

HOSPITAL REMINDERSFor Gundersen: be sure to alert the hospital of your church affiliation when they ask, and they will release your name to us when we call. For Mayo/Franciscan Healthcare: it is important that you or a family member contact us at the church office: 608.783.2236. Mayo no longer lets churches know who is a patient at their hospital.

LUTHERAN YOUTH CHOIR INTERNATIONAL INVITATIONChicago and Milwaukee festivals July 10-19The Lutheran Youth Choir International, an ecumenical summer touring choir for high school students founded in 2005, invites singers to be part of its 2016 Festival of Global Vocal Music. Following three previous choral festivals in Germany and one in the U.S., the choir’s fifth festival will be based in the Chicago and Milwaukee areas. The festival, July 10-19, will include eight full days of rehearsing and performing sacred choral music from around the world with other young people from the United States and Germany. In addition, there will be time for sightseeing in Chicago and Milwaukee, a global percussion workshop, a trip to Six Flags Great America amusement park, and lots of other fun in and around the Chicago area.The students will stay in beautiful and secure dormitories on the campus of North Central College in Naperville, Ill. The $995 tuition includes room and board, music, admissions and local transportation. Generous financial aid is available. All singers who participate in the 2016 festival will receive a $1,000 scholarship toward the cost of the Lutheran Youth Choir’s 2017 Festival of American Vocal Music in Mansfeld, Germany, July 22-Aug. 1, 2017.Go to lutheranyouthchoir.org for additional information and application materials.

DESIGNATED FUNDSEach month, First Lutheran gives thanks for gifts offered to designated funds. If you plan to make a special gift to First, consider these options. Currently we are gathering funds for:

• Lutheran Disaster Relief• Lutheran World Hunger• Youth Fund

(supports campers & mission trippers)• Helping Hands Fund

(for First members in need)• Samaritan Fund

(for non-members in need)• Halos Project• Seminarian Fund• Sugar Creek Bible Camp• The Property & Grounds and the

Music & Worship Teams also have wish lists. Contact Pastor Stanton to inquire how your gift to either Team could support the ministry of First Lutheran.

SUBMITTING NEW ANNOUNCEMENTSTo have your announcement in the monthly newsletter, send it to newsletter@firstlu.org, or give it to Andy in the office. Deadline for the newsletter is always noon on the 15th of the each month.To have your announcement in the weekly announcements pages handed out each weekend, send it to announcements@firstlu.org, or give it to Andy in the office. Deadline for the weekly announcements is always noon each Wednesday.

13141 Sugar Creek Bible Camp Rd, Ferryville, WI 54628608.734.3113 • camp@sgrcreek.org • www.sugarcreekbiblecamp.org

SUMMER PROGRAMMING IS OPEN!

• Strengthen faith in Christ• Develop critical thinking skills• Encourage face-to-face interaction• Allow “screen free” time in God’screation

• Empower young people for service • HAVEALOTOFFUN!

As winter grudgingly gives way to spring, and Lent leads us to the sorrow of the cross and beyond to the joy of Easter, new life is on our minds!Yourchildorgrandchildcanhave an amazing new experience this summer with the caring staff and beautifulcreationofSugarCreek!Nowisthetimetoregister,beforeyourdesiredweekfillsup.Popularprogramsfillupfast!Register today to reserve your spot!.

YESTERDAY’S YOUTHMonday, April 4, 9am to 3pmJoin others from the region for a day of excellent speakers, music, a great meal and fellowship with over 100 guests.Calltoreserveyourspace!

3–5 GRADE RETREATApril 16–17Come join us for a time of fun and faith exploration. Enjoy time away with your favorite camp friends and Sugar Creek counselors playing games, singing songs, worshiping together and studying the Bible. This April retreat is a taste of the summer to come!Cost:$50(includes3meals).Retreat runs from 7pm Saturday to 1pm Sunday.

CRAFTER’S RETREATApril 21–24Calling all stampers, scrappers, quiltersorwhateveryourcraft!Getaway for a weekend dedicated to working on your craft and enjoy some ofourprogramminglikecampfires,devotions,worship,andmore.We’llgive you half of an 8 ft table, plenty of good food and a place to lay your head. Just bring yourself, bedding, toiletriesandallyoursupplies.We’llhave morning and evening devotions and a worship service on Sunday. Cost and registration form at sgrcreek.org.

WISH LIST

Your gift can be tax deductible, and Sugar Creek can provide you a receipt.

• 4 wheel drive pickup• 4 wheeler/mule or gator type• Lumber• Trees(wetakeallkinds!)andperennials(sunorshade)

• Shop equipment• Steel T fence posts• Flat bed trailer

#FaithAliveinOna April 2016 7

EVENTSSign up for most events happening at First Lutheran on our website at 1stlu.org/signup

SPECIAL CONGREGATIONAL MEETINGA special congregational meeting has been called for April 3 and 6 following each worship service to formally approve the cost of improvements to the Fellowship Hall. All members are asked to be present for this short but important meeting.

DRAWING FROM THE WELLNext retreat: Sat., April 9, 8:30am–1:30pm. Focus: Core Values It is spring! We are in part two of our exploration of the importance of core values. We begin with a study of Luke 24:13-32 (Jesus is revealed in the breaking of the bread). After some conversation we will continue our discussion around core values. We will have lived with them for a month and hopefully had some insight along the way. We will talk together about how to live a life that is in line with our values and how that impacts how we follow Jesus. Lunch will be at a place to be determined.First Lutheran invites all women to participate in this discipline, where we will explore the idea of wellness, exploring an aspect of the ELCA’s wellness wheel at each meeting. These meetings are on the second Saturday of the month, from 8:30am–1:30pm, and you can participate in all or part of it. Contact Pastor Karyn for more info: karyn@firstlu.org.

Chicken-QThursday, April 28

11am–6pm Tickets available soon!

May 1–7, will be our prayer walk week in which families, friends, small groups, confirmation small groups and Sunday School classes have the opportunity to pray for neighborhoods, schools, playgrounds, businesses and our whole community.The prayer walk can be done anytime during the week, so it can easily fit into your calendar. Get a group of people together and for half an hour to an hour pray for your neighborhood or someplace you would like to pray for in Onalaska.

13141 Sugar Creek Bible Camp Rd, Ferryville, WI 54628608.734.3113 • camp@sgrcreek.org • www.sugarcreekbiblecamp.org

SUMMER PROGRAMMING IS OPEN!

• Strengthen faith in Christ• Develop critical thinking skills• Encourage face-to-face interaction• Allow “screen free” time in God’screation

• Empower young people for service • HAVEALOTOFFUN!

As winter grudgingly gives way to spring, and Lent leads us to the sorrow of the cross and beyond to the joy of Easter, new life is on our minds!Yourchildorgrandchildcanhave an amazing new experience this summer with the caring staff and beautifulcreationofSugarCreek!Nowisthetimetoregister,beforeyourdesiredweekfillsup.Popularprogramsfillupfast!Register today to reserve your spot!.

YESTERDAY’S YOUTHMonday, April 4, 9am to 3pmJoin others from the region for a day of excellent speakers, music, a great meal and fellowship with over 100 guests.Calltoreserveyourspace!

3–5 GRADE RETREATApril 16–17Come join us for a time of fun and faith exploration. Enjoy time away with your favorite camp friends and Sugar Creek counselors playing games, singing songs, worshiping together and studying the Bible. This April retreat is a taste of the summer to come!Cost:$50(includes3meals).Retreat runs from 7pm Saturday to 1pm Sunday.

CRAFTER’S RETREATApril 21–24Calling all stampers, scrappers, quiltersorwhateveryourcraft!Getaway for a weekend dedicated to working on your craft and enjoy some ofourprogramminglikecampfires,devotions,worship,andmore.We’llgive you half of an 8 ft table, plenty of good food and a place to lay your head. Just bring yourself, bedding, toiletriesandallyoursupplies.We’llhave morning and evening devotions and a worship service on Sunday. Cost and registration form at sgrcreek.org.

WISH LIST

Your gift can be tax deductible, and Sugar Creek can provide you a receipt.

• 4 wheel drive pickup• 4 wheeler/mule or gator type• Lumber• Trees(wetakeallkinds!)andperennials(sunorshade)

• Shop equipment• Steel T fence posts• Flat bed trailer

8 April 2016 First Lutheran Church + Good News

SERVE & GIVE

WELCOME BASKETS NEEDS YOUR HELPMembers of First Lutheran: the Welcome Basket Team is looking for your help. We would like to include in our baskets items from our congregation. Items like knitted or crocheted dishcloths, scrubbies, or other homemade items. We would also like to include area business coupons, business cards or other small promotional items. If you have a business you would like to promote in our Welcome Basket or an item you would like to donate, please let Kathryn know. Give her a call at church, or e-mail if you are interested or have any questions. Call 608.783.2236 or e-mail at kathryn@firstlu.org.

SERVE @ WORSHIP!Sign up for the following & more at the Welcome Center and on your phone or computer at 1stlu.org/serveSTILL NEEDED FOR APRIL:

• Acolytes• Coffee servers• Communion servers• Nursery helpers• Ushers• Puppeteers

SUNSHINE BOYSThe Sunshine Boys meet at First Lutheran on the first Thursday of the month at 9am to help with outdoor or indoor projects. Rolls and coffee are supplied to replenish your reserves! Dues are free!

NEWSLETTER ASSEMBLYIt’s a relaxing way to volunteer! Thursday, April 28, at 9am, to assemble the May newsletter. See you there!

SUNDAY SCHOOL TEACHERSPlanning for 2016–2017 is under way! Opportunities for next year include:

• teachers• classroom helpers• office helpers• supply shoppers• opening leaders• substitute helpers• Faith Stepping Stone teachers• more!...

Contact sundayschool@firstlu.org and go to page 10 for more details.

If you know of someone who needs a caregiver,

speak with Pastor Karyn or call the

church office.

GOD’S HANDS & FEET

GROW: FOCUSING ON CHRISTSpring is one of my

favorite times of the year. I love seeing people getting outside to walk, run and bike. I love being outside as the weather turns

warm. I enjoy giving my attention to the growing plants—cleaning up around them, transplanting overgrown ones or trimming them back, knowing they will flourish better once the work is done. I know that as I put the work into my garden, it’s worth the effort and time, as I see the plants growing and blooming.

Our church gives us places to grow as well. Unlike the gardener, who decides where a plant should go, we ourselves make the decision about how and where we will grow in our knowledge of our Savior Jesus. II Peter 3:18 says, “But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” Serving is one way to grow in grace, we learn to show grace and also to receive grace. When we learn about Jesus through serving as he did, we grow in knowledge about Jesus and grow in grace by giving grace to others. When we focus on Jesus in a small group, we grow in grace, enabling us to serving those around us. As we worship together focusing on Christ’s love, grace, forgiveness and service, we grow in knowledge and serving should be an extension of our worship. Serving in worship grows us in grace and knowledge of our Lord Jesus because Jesus came to serve not be served. Jesus showed that when he healed the sick, raised the dead, washed the disciples’ feet and died on the cross. We cannot say we know Jesus and then not serve others. We cannot grow in grace without serving those who God puts in our path. It’s a circle of focusing, learning, growing, serving and worshipping the One who was our example and who fills us with grace to do the circle again and again.

Growing isn’t alway easy. Growing can mean getting out of our comfort zone and doing something that is uncomfortable for

a short time. But when we do, God’s grace grows in us, the knowledge of him who served us first, grows within us. We have many ways of growing in our church. Try something you have never done before—usher, read, serve communion, help teach Sunday school or VBS, be a coffee server or join a small group and begin growing.

Kathryn PedrettiDirector of Servant Ministrieskathryn@firstlu.org

Serving in worship grows us in grace

and knowledge of our Lord Jesus because Jesus came to serve

not be served. Jesus showed that when he healed the

sick, raised the dead, washed the disciples

feet and died on the cross.

We cannot say we know Jesus and then

not serve others.

#FaithAliveinOna April 2016 9

What parents are saying about First Lutheran

Preschool...

First Lutheran Preschool 410 Main Street, Onalaska, WI 54650 608.779.4504•preschool@firstlu.orgPreschool Director: Melissa Rolbiecki 4K Teacher: Megan ColganPreschool Assistant Teachers: Marci Leppert, Carrie Markos

U p d a t e

F i r s t L u t h e r a n

“We have had lots of fun at the preschool. The learning experience my child had at the preschool was great and will be very helpful to pursue his education in kindergarten next year.

We want to thank all the teachers for their commitment and service.”

It’s First Lutheran Preschool registration time! If your children are ready for preschool or you know someone with preschool age children (2-4), please consider the amazing preschool right here at First Lutheran. We are passionate about early childhood education! We’ve worked hard to develop a rich curriculum which makes learning fun as well as offer a variety of classes to meet our parents’ needs. Contact us today for more information.Only a few spots left!!!Call or email us today for more information!

10 April 2016 First Lutheran Church + Good News

imag

ine!SUNDAY

SCHOOL

New registrations welcome any time of the year. Contact Sunday school superintendents Sheri Betz and Tawni O’Rourke at sundayschool@firstlu.org or stop in the Sunday School office in room 206.

CALL FOR TEACHERS:Planning for next year’s Sunday school has already begun! The only way to maintain a dynamic and well run Sunday school program is with the help of our congregation! Please consider the reward of being a Sunday school teacher or helper next year. Many hands make light work (and reap great joy J)! You need not be able to be present every weekend to teach, nor do you need to have experience or be an “expert” at the Bible stories. One of the great rewards is working with others and learning as you go. We have wonderful mentors and great resources! If you are willing to consider helping with the Sunday school program in any way, please contact Sheri Betz or Tawni O’Rourke at sundayschool@firstlu.org.

Needs for next year include: • Teachers• Classroom helpers• Office helpers• Supply shoppers• Opening leaders• Substitute helpers• Faith Stepping Stone teachers• Christmas program helpers• Thankful Sunday helpers• Sugar Creek Sunday helpers• Bible cover sewers• Paper sorters/stockers

The possibilities are endless! J

APRIL SUNDAY SCHOOL CALENDAR:Kindergarten Faith Buildling Block: Lord’s Prayer

• Sunday, April 3, 9:15am, 1st meeting, parents/guardians only• Sunday, April 10, 9:15am, 2nd meeting, child w/ parents/guardians• Sunday, April 17, 9:15am, 3rd meeting, child w/ parents/guardians• Sunday, April 24, Kindergarten Faith Building Block: Lord’s Prayer,

lifted up in worship

4 Year Old Faith Building Block: The Keys• Sunday, April 24, 9:15am, 1st meeting, parents/guardians only

Vacation Bible School!Join us this summer August 7-11 from 5-8pm each night for a great Vacation Bible School

Adventure!Allkidsages3(andpottytrained)–5thgrade are welcome to join us for the fun. We will

need adult helpers to guide and lead games, crafts and stories. Be a part of this fun! Email Becky

Rundeatvbs@firstlu.orgifyouhaveanyquestionsorinterestinhelpingout.Thanks!

#FaithAliveinOna April 2016 11

imag

ine!

YOUNGYOUTHGROUP

If you are in 2nd–5th grade then this is your club!

Contact Katie Everson at katie@firstlu.org,608.786.4826 for information or with questions!

All are welcome!

Noah’s Ark in WI Dells!Tuesday, June 14For: Families & young youth! RSVP to Katie: katie@firstlu.org

Young Youth Explorer Days

@ Sugar CreekTues., July 12. An exciting 1-day adventure with

games, nature, crafts, swimming, a pony ride, Bible study, singing & more! Cost: $20; includes lunch & snack. RSVP to Katie: katie@firstlu.org.

Young Youth events are for grades 2–5.

12 April 2016 First Lutheran Church + Good News

PANCAKE BREAKFAST THANK YOUA huge THANK YOU to everyone who helped

make the Pancake Breakfast possible!! This year we raised just over $1000 to help our kids get

the chance to explore their faith through mission trips and camps! This could not have been possible without this amazing church family,

so thank you!

ELCA WORLD HUNGER

WALK-FOR-WATER

WWW.ELCA.ORG/WALK4WATER

Mission Trip MeetingsMS Quad Cities Trip Meeting, for students only April 10, 11:30–12:30 (lunch provided)HS Puerto Rico Trip Meeting, for parents & students (will make decision on Zika Virus) April 17, 11:30HS Colorado Trip Meeting, for students only April 24, 11:30-12:30 (lunch provided)

HS YOUTH GROUP!Every Sunday from 6:30-8:30, usually followed with a trip to Yogurt Lab! If you haven’t tried it out yet, it’s not too late! Come for a time of awesome games, spiritual conversations, and a loving environment!

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

Peer Ministry We start back up on Wed., Apr. 6!

HS Youth SundayApril 3 (both services)

Come join in a worship service that our high schoolers will help lead! We will help usher,

read, lead music, serve communion and lead the congregation

in a special message

Graduation Milestone & Recognition Dinner for Seniors

April 16 5–8pmThis is an awesome opportunity for us to

celebrate our youth and their families who helped them get to where they are! Please RSVP to Tina by April 10 to get a spot for your soon-to-be graduate and their family.

Please also drop off a wallet-sized senior picture of your student to the church office.

Chicken-Q: APR 28This is an awesome fundraiser with delicious food! Tickets will be made available to sell by April 1 (students receive $3 towards their trip for each ticket sold). We will be looking for adult and youth volunteers to help make this event possible! Contact tina@firstlu.org if interested in helping out.

ELCA World Hunger’s

Walk for Water April 9, 9:45-11amValley View Mall

Volunteers will help create a simulated water collection experience at Valley View Mall, like the Walk for Water experience at

the 2015 National Youth Gathering! Throughout the simulation each participant

will follow one of four “stories” to guide them along the track.

Along the way they will be confronted with different obstacles that help them

realize some of the struggles those walking for water may encounter.

Contact Tina to help out! tina@firstlu.orgMore info:

elca.org/walk4water

MABEL ANDERSON SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE

Completed applications are due no later than noon on April 8. Application forms are available through First

Lutheran’s website, at the Welcome Center in the narthex, and at the church office. More information about the

scholarship can be found on page 6.

#FaithAliveinOna April 2016 13

The OWLs had a hoot in March. A great adventure to the National Eagle Center in Wabasha with stops at Lark Toys and finishing with ice cream at Nelson’s Creamery. A fun time was had by all. Our potluck was well attended. Ron and Frieda Nowland gave an inspiring presentation on Vikings in Ireland.

We will begin the month of April early with a trip to Sugar Creek Bible Camp for Yesterday’s Youth. The featured speaker is Dick Campbell, who will help us “Remember the USS Indianapolis and Her Crew” in the morning, followed by an intriguing “Story of the Wright Brothers and How They Gave Us Wings” in the afternoon. The program also will include a musical interlude and delicious lunch. We will leave the church at 8 AM on Monday, April 4. Cost of the day is $10. Please notify Brian or Mary Narveson at owls@firstlu.org or 608-526-9700 by Sunday April 3 if you plan to attend.

The April potluck will be moved one week to the 4th Wednesday, April 27th, due to Brian and Mary being out of town. We will meet in the fellowship hall for a great potluck lunch and a

rousing round of “Suddenly Senior Trivia” along with some fun and mildly challenging brain teasers. Come ready to compete with your fellow OWLs for some interesting but not too fabulous prizes for the “gamers of the week.” If you have some interesting trivia questions from the 1940s, ‘50s or ‘60s, email them to Brian at owls@firstlu.org, and he will include them in the fun.

Looking forward to seeing everyone in April.

The OWLs are a group at First that welcomes anyone, First Lutheran members or not, who are 55+. For information or to ask questions, contact Brian Narveson at owls@firstlu.org.

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 www.scan.me.

March 27–April 6SUN 27 EASTER SUNDAY

7:30am Worship9:00am Worship10:45am Worship

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

9:00am Newsletter Assembly - NX9:30am Staff Mtg5:30pm Bell Choir Rehearsal6:30pm Property Mngmt Team

WED 30 6:00am Courageous Men’s Bible Study - House6:30am Coffee with Pastor Karyn - Panera5:00pm Keep Calm & Trust Jesus - FS5:00pm Servant Leadership - RM 2075:15pm Knitters - UR6:15pm Worship7:00pm 8th & 9th Gr Small Groups7:00pm Senior Choir Rehearsal - SN

THUR 31 6:00pm Gifts of Imperfection Small Grp - FHFRI 1 7:00pm AA - FHSAT 2 10:00am Baptismal Preparation - NXSUN 3 8:00am Worship

9:15am What is Meaningful To You Confi rmation Cls - TR

9:15am Parent Share - UR9:15am The Story Small Group - MR9:15am Kindergarten Faith Building Block: Lord’s

Prayer (1st Mtg, parents/guardians only)9:15am Sun School & 6/7th Gr Confi rmation10:30am Worship6:30pm First HS Youth Group - MR6:30pm Knowing Me, Knowing Them

Small Grp - FHMON 4 7:00pm AA - FSTUES 5 9:00am Quilters - FS

1:30pm Staff Mtg5:30pm Bell Choir Rehearsal6:30pm Stephen Ministry Mtg - MR

WED 6 6:00am Courageous Men’s Bible Study - House6:30am Coffee with Pastor Karyn - Panera8:30am First Teen Clothes Closet Mtg5:00pm Lord’s Prayer B - FS5:15pm Knitters - UR6:15pm Worship6:30pm Peer Ministry - Mary Rm & House7:00pm 8th & 9th Gr Small Groups7:00pm Senior Choir Rehearsal - SN8:00pm Praise Band Rehearsal

CR = Choir Room FH = Fellowship Hall FS = Fireside RoomMR = Mary Room NX = Narthex SN = Sanctuary TR = Thomas Room UR = Upper RoomFor more information, visit our website at www.FirstLutheranOnalaska.org

Subscribe to our calendar at 2.fi rstlu.org/subscribe2cal

New-MemberSession

Sun, May 111:45am–2pm

Chicken-QThur, April 2811am–6pm

Graduation Milestone Dinner

Sat, April 165–8pm

Walk for WaterSat, April 99:45am–2pm

Drawing from the Well

Sat, April 98:30am–1:30pm

Scholarship DeadlineFri, April 8Noon

Baptismal PreparationSat, April 210am–Noon

Knowing Me, Knowing Them

Sun, April 36:30–8pm

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.

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

March 27–April 6SUN 27 EASTER SUNDAY

7:30am Worship9:00am Worship10:45am Worship

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

9:00am Newsletter Assembly - NX9:30am Staff Mtg5:30pm Bell Choir Rehearsal6:30pm Property Mngmt Team

WED 30 6:00am Courageous Men’s Bible Study - House6:30am Coffee with Pastor Karyn - Panera5:00pm Keep Calm & Trust Jesus - FS5:00pm Servant Leadership - RM 2075:15pm Knitters - UR6:15pm Worship7:00pm 8th & 9th Gr Small Groups7:00pm Senior Choir Rehearsal - SN

THUR 31 6:00pm Gifts of Imperfection Small Grp - FHFRI 1 7:00pm AA - FHSAT 2 10:00am Baptismal Preparation - NXSUN 3 8:00am Worship

9:15am What is Meaningful To You Confi rmation Cls - TR

9:15am Parent Share - UR9:15am The Story Small Group - MR9:15am Kindergarten Faith Building Block: Lord’s

Prayer (1st Mtg, parents/guardians only)9:15am Sun School & 6/7th Gr Confi rmation10:30am Worship6:30pm First HS Youth Group - MR6:30pm Knowing Me, Knowing Them

Small Grp - FHMON 4 7:00pm AA - FSTUES 5 9:00am Quilters - FS

1:30pm Staff Mtg5:30pm Bell Choir Rehearsal6:30pm Stephen Ministry Mtg - MR

WED 6 6:00am Courageous Men’s Bible Study - House6:30am Coffee with Pastor Karyn - Panera8:30am First Teen Clothes Closet Mtg5:00pm Lord’s Prayer B - FS5:15pm Knitters - UR6:15pm Worship6:30pm Peer Ministry - Mary Rm & House7:00pm 8th & 9th Gr Small Groups7:00pm Senior Choir Rehearsal - SN8:00pm Praise Band Rehearsal

CR = Choir Room FH = Fellowship Hall FS = Fireside RoomMR = Mary Room NX = Narthex SN = Sanctuary TR = Thomas Room UR = Upper RoomFor more information, visit our website at www.FirstLutheranOnalaska.org

Subscribe to our calendar at 2.fi rstlu.org/subscribe2cal

New-MemberSession

Sun, May 111:45am–2pm

Chicken-QThur, April 2811am–6pm

Graduation Milestone Dinner

Sat, April 165–8pm

Walk for WaterSat, April 99:45am–2pm

Drawing from the Well

Sat, April 98:30am–1:30pm

Scholarship DeadlineFri, April 8Noon

Baptismal PreparationSat, April 210am–Noon

Knowing Me, Knowing Them

Sun, April 36:30–8pm

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.

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

March 27–April 6SUN 27 EASTER SUNDAY

7:30am Worship9:00am Worship10:45am Worship

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

9:00am Newsletter Assembly - NX9:30am Staff Mtg5:30pm Bell Choir Rehearsal6:30pm Property Mngmt Team

WED 30 6:00am Courageous Men’s Bible Study - House6:30am Coffee with Pastor Karyn - Panera5:00pm Keep Calm & Trust Jesus - FS5:00pm Servant Leadership - RM 2075:15pm Knitters - UR6:15pm Worship7:00pm 8th & 9th Gr Small Groups7:00pm Senior Choir Rehearsal - SN

THUR 31 6:00pm Gifts of Imperfection Small Grp - FHFRI 1 7:00pm AA - FHSAT 2 10:00am Baptismal Preparation - NXSUN 3 8:00am Worship

9:15am What is Meaningful To You Confi rmation Cls - TR

9:15am Parent Share - UR9:15am The Story Small Group - MR9:15am Kindergarten Faith Building Block: Lord’s

Prayer (1st Mtg, parents/guardians only)9:15am Sun School & 6/7th Gr Confi rmation10:30am Worship6:30pm First HS Youth Group - MR6:30pm Knowing Me, Knowing Them

Small Grp - FHMON 4 7:00pm AA - FSTUES 5 9:00am Quilters - FS

1:30pm Staff Mtg5:30pm Bell Choir Rehearsal6:30pm Stephen Ministry Mtg - MR

WED 6 6:00am Courageous Men’s Bible Study - House6:30am Coffee with Pastor Karyn - Panera8:30am First Teen Clothes Closet Mtg5:00pm Lord’s Prayer B - FS5:15pm Knitters - UR6:15pm Worship6:30pm Peer Ministry - Mary Rm & House7:00pm 8th & 9th Gr Small Groups7:00pm Senior Choir Rehearsal - SN8:00pm Praise Band Rehearsal

CR = Choir Room FH = Fellowship Hall FS = Fireside RoomMR = Mary Room NX = Narthex SN = Sanctuary TR = Thomas Room UR = Upper RoomFor more information, visit our website at www.FirstLutheranOnalaska.org

Subscribe to our calendar at 2.fi rstlu.org/subscribe2cal

New-MemberSession

Sun, May 111:45am–2pm

Chicken-QThur, April 2811am–6pm

Graduation Milestone Dinner

Sat, April 165–8pm

Walk for WaterSat, April 99:45am–2pm

Drawing from the Well

Sat, April 98:30am–1:30pm

Scholarship DeadlineFri, April 8Noon

Baptismal PreparationSat, April 210am–Noon

Knowing Me, Knowing Them

Sun, April 36:30–8pm

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.

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

March 27–April 6SUN 27 EASTER SUNDAY

7:30am Worship9:00am Worship10:45am Worship

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

9:00am Newsletter Assembly - NX9:30am Staff Mtg5:30pm Bell Choir Rehearsal6:30pm Property Mngmt Team

WED 30 6:00am Courageous Men’s Bible Study - House6:30am Coffee with Pastor Karyn - Panera5:00pm Keep Calm & Trust Jesus - FS5:00pm Servant Leadership - RM 2075:15pm Knitters - UR6:15pm Worship7:00pm 8th & 9th Gr Small Groups7:00pm Senior Choir Rehearsal - SN

THUR 31 6:00pm Gifts of Imperfection Small Grp - FHFRI 1 7:00pm AA - FHSAT 2 10:00am Baptismal Preparation - NXSUN 3 8:00am Worship

9:15am What is Meaningful To You Confi rmation Cls - TR

9:15am Parent Share - UR9:15am The Story Small Group - MR9:15am Kindergarten Faith Building Block: Lord’s

Prayer (1st Mtg, parents/guardians only)9:15am Sun School & 6/7th Gr Confi rmation10:30am Worship6:30pm First HS Youth Group - MR6:30pm Knowing Me, Knowing Them

Small Grp - FHMON 4 7:00pm AA - FSTUES 5 9:00am Quilters - FS

1:30pm Staff Mtg5:30pm Bell Choir Rehearsal6:30pm Stephen Ministry Mtg - MR

WED 6 6:00am Courageous Men’s Bible Study - House6:30am Coffee with Pastor Karyn - Panera8:30am First Teen Clothes Closet Mtg5:00pm Lord’s Prayer B - FS5:15pm Knitters - UR6:15pm Worship6:30pm Peer Ministry - Mary Rm & House7:00pm 8th & 9th Gr Small Groups7:00pm Senior Choir Rehearsal - SN8:00pm Praise Band Rehearsal

CR = Choir Room FH = Fellowship Hall FS = Fireside RoomMR = Mary Room NX = Narthex SN = Sanctuary TR = Thomas Room UR = Upper RoomFor more information, visit our website at www.FirstLutheranOnalaska.org

Subscribe to our calendar at 2.fi rstlu.org/subscribe2cal

New-MemberSession

Sun, May 111:45am–2pm

Chicken-QThur, April 2811am–6pm

Graduation Milestone Dinner

Sat, April 165–8pm

Walk for WaterSat, April 99:45am–2pm

Drawing from the Well

Sat, April 98:30am–1:30pm

Scholarship DeadlineFri, April 8Noon

Baptismal PreparationSat, April 210am–Noon

Knowing Me, Knowing Them

Sun, April 36:30–8pm

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.

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

#FaithAliveinOna April 2016 15

410 Main St. Onalaska, Wisconsin 54650608.783.2236 Fax: 608.783.3741office@firstlu.org www.FirstLutheranOnalaska.org

WORSHIP SCHEDULE Sunday 8:00 & 10:30 AM Wednesday 6:15 PM

SUBMITTING NEW ANNOUNCEMENTSTo have your announcement in the monthly newsletter, send it to newsletter@firstlu.org, or give it to Andy in the office. Deadline for the newsletter is always noon on the 15th of the month.To have your announcement in the weekly announcements pages handed out each weekend, send it to announcements@firstlu.org, or give it to Andy in the office. Deadline for the weekly announcements is always noon each Wednesday.

First Lutheran is a congregation of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America (ELCA)

STAFF DIRECTORY

Jason Stanton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Senior Pastor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 608.386.6431 . . . . . . . . . . . .jason@firstlu.orgKaryn Bodenschatz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Associate Pastor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 608.433.6002 . . . . . . . . . . karyn@firstlu.org

Kathryn Pedretti . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Director of Servant Ministries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .kathryn@firstlu.orgBridget Crave . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Director of Small Group Ministry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . bridget@firstlu.org

YOUTH/EDUCATION STAFFSheri Betz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sunday School Superintendent . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . sundayschool@firstlu.orgTawni O’Rourke . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sunday School Superintendent . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . sundayschool@firstlu.orgKatie Everson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Young Youth Coordinator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . katie@firstlu.orgCindy Beach . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Confirmation Administrative Assistant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . cindy@firstlu.orgTina Nelson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Director of Discipleship for Youth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . tina@firstlu.org

SUPPORT STAFFTamara Schonsberg . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Office Assistant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 608.783.2236 . . . . . . . . . . . office@firstlu.orgAndy Stutesman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Communications & Marketing Coordinator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . andy@firstlu.orgMike Peper . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Head Custodian . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . mike@firstlu.orgMark Koenig . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Assistant CustodianPeggy Daleki . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Assistant Custodian

MUSIC STAFFJim Knutson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bell Choir Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . jim@firstlu.orgGabriel Hicks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Organist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . gabe@firstlu.orgTodd Saner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Senior Choir Director & Contemporary Music Coordinator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . todd@firstlu.orgDick Daleki . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Youth Praise Band Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . dick@firstlu.org

PRESCHOOL STAFFMelissa Rolbiecki . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Preschool Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 608.779.4504 . . . . . . . . preschool@firstlu.orgMegan Colgan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4K TeacherMarci Leppert . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Preschool Assistant TeacherCarrie Markos . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Preschool Assistant Teacher

VISION & LEADERSHIP TEAMTodd Lofald . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PresidentPaula Skoy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Vice PresidentJennifer Wiesjahn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SecretaryShaun GibbsAaron McDonaldMary Ann Redfearn Larry Schreiner

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APRIL 2016

SMALL GROUP STARTING APRIL 3More info p. 4