ZION LUTHERAN CHURCH • BUFFALO, MN JULY 2011

O f f i c e@Z i onBu f fa l o . o r g ( 763 ) 682 - 1245 www.Z i onB u f fa l o . o r g

Sunday Worship Services

8:30 am Traditional Worship in the Sanctuary with nursery available 9:45 am Family Express in Trinity Hall 10:30 am Contemporary Worship in the Sanctuary with nursery available

Sunday School

Available for children ages 3 to grade 6 at 8:30 and 10:30 during the school year.

Wednesday Nights

Programs for elementary students, choirs, handbells, confirmation and supper during the school year.

Contact Us

Email Office@ZionBuffalo.org Online www.ZionBuffalo.org Office Hours Monday-Friday 8:30am-4:30pm (noon summer Fridays) Church Office 763.682.1245 Fax 763.684.1967 Street Address 1200 Highway 25 South, Buffalo (across from 13th St S.) Mailing Address PO Box 88, Buffalo, MN 55313

Prayer Requests

Call the church office at 763.682.1245 or visit Zion online at ZionBuffalo.org with your prayer requests. If you want a pastoral visit or would like to be included in pastoral prayers during worship, please use a yellow pew card or call the church office.

Address, Phone & Email Corrections

Zion maintains a database of all members. If you have had any changes to your address, phone number, marital status, etc. please contact Angela with your name, phone number and the changes that need to be made.

If You Are Ill

Hospitals no longer notify churches when their members are admitted for care. Call 763.682.1245 and let us know so we can support you with prayer and with presence.

Weekly Bulletin Insert

The weekly bulletin announcement insert is also available to download as a PDF at ZionBuffalo.org/Weekly. Contact Diane Montplaisir with submissions as early in the week as possible, but no later than Thursdays at Noon.

The Voice A monthly publication of Zion Lutheran Church

Upcoming Deadlines July 18 at 8am for August Issue

August 15 at 8am for September Issue

Editor: Angela Bengtson ABengtson@ZionBuffalo.org

This Month’s Cover Rodger Hessedal helps Vacation Bible School

students build bird houses

Zion Staff

Ted Vanderpan: Senior Pastor ext. 304 | TVanderpan@zionbuffalo.org

Luke Schmidt: Pastor of Congregational Life ext. 305 | LSchmidt@zionbuffalo.org

Sherilyn Burgdorf: Shared Ministry Director ext. 307 | SBurgdorf@zionbuffalo.org

Roxie Otten: Co-Director of Christian Education ext. 331 | ROtten@zionbuffalo.org

Holly Husom: Co-Director of Christian Education ext. 308 | HHusom@zionbuffalo.org

Myron Crawford: Director of Youth Ministries ext. 306 | MCrawford@zionbuffalo.org

Jim Onstad: Youth Staff Diane Montplaisir: Administrative Secretary

ext. 302 | DMontplaisir@zionbuffalo.org

Angela Bengtson: Communications & Membership ext. 325 | ABengtson@zionbuffalo.org

Sue Stensrud: Financial Secretary ext. 303 | SStensrud@zionbuffalo.org

Louis Nagel: Part Time Custodian Missy Peterson & Stephanie McClanahan:

Nursery Staff Michael Walsh: Coordinator of Music

Congregational Council Kevin Bergquist

Roger Brenny

Bill Deneen

Mike Davis

Tracy Gurneau

Kelly Hanson

Devonne Kent

Beverly Koopman

Sue Lyrek

Colleen Manninen

Scott Morin

Steve Peterson

Wanda Weber

Zion seeks to share Christ’s word, strengthen faith and serve those in need. 2

Information

Rest and Relaxation This SummerRest and Relaxation This SummerRest and Relaxation This SummerRest and Relaxation This Summer By Pastor Ted

I enjoyed some vacation time during the month of June. I took a weekend off for my daughter’s graduation from high school. I took a few days off to do house projects to get our house ready to sell. We have our first ever Vanderpan Family Reunion the last weekend of June. It has been great to be free from all the demands of work. During my time away, I will have received approximately 200 emails, numerous phone messages, and a pile of mail. I have another pile, about 2 inches deep, of things I could not wrap up in between these times away. But freedom from all the work waiting for me is not why I think vacations are good. I think vacations are good, primarily, because they refresh and ready us for the very work that awaits our return.

We benefit from reflecting on our work while away from the daily demands of work. While most of us do not work during our vacation, we think, we process, we reflect on our work relationships and responsibilities. While on vacation we think about our own attitudes and actions when we are at work. We often gain a healthier perspective on people and projects while away. Often my most creative thoughts about work come not when under the pressure of getting something done, but when away on vacation. I often jot notes to remind myself of something when I get back to the office.

In the Bible we are encouraged to take a break from our work weekly. This concept is the Sabbath rest. The first use of the concept is at creation, when God rested from the labor of creating the earth and all that is in it. As the theology of God’s people developed, the Sabbath rest, along with circumcision, became the fundamental observance of their religion. Central to their life together as a nation, the Sabbath rest is the first of the religious days and seasons listed in Leviticus 25 and the only one mentioned in Exodus 20:8-11, where we find the Ten Commandments. Observance of the Sabbath rest is a sign of the nation’s faithfulness and is linked to guaranteeing their permanence and prosperity (Ezekiel 20:12-20). In these same passages we find that through a Sabbath rest, the people and the land gain strength and refreshment.

By the time Jesus came along, the observance of the Sabbath rest had become focused on the negative – a list of what was forbidden to do on that day. Jesus claimed freedom from those restrictions for himself and his followers. In Mark 2 Jesus pronounces, “the Sabbath was made for humankind and not humankind for the Sabbath.” The Sabbath rest was for the benefit of humans. A memorial of God’s rest at creation, our Sabbath rest is to be filled with those things that remind us of God’s presence and promise. Worship with God’s people, hearing God’s word, singing our praises to God, and time away from our daily work responsibilities all invite us to reflect on the Lord’s wonderful love for us and to

(Rest and Relaxation continued on page 11)

Worship Schedule

Sunday July 3 Monday July 4 Third Sunday after Pentecost Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30 Pastor Ted Preaching

Sunday July 10 Monday July 11 Fourth Sunday after Pentecost Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23 Pastor Luke Preaching

Sunday July 17 Monday July 18 Fifth Sunday after Pentecost Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43 Pastor Ted Preaching

Sunday July 24 Monday July 25 Sixth Sunday after Pentecost Matthew 13:31-33, 44-52 Pastor Luke Preaching

Sunday July 31 Monday August 1 Seventh Sunday after Pentecost Matthew 14:13-21 Pastor Luke Preaching

Historic Marysville Church

During June, July & August services are held each Monday evening at 7pm at the Historic Marysville Church, on County Road 9 between Buffalo and Waverly.

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From the Pastor

Baptisms

May 8 Karsten Daniel Hawke

Savannah Brynn Dusil

Brianna Lynn Gregg

May 22 Jayden Robert Larson

Weddings

May 7 Sara O’Flanagan & Troy Winter at Zion

June births & pastoral acts will be reported in the August Newsletter.

Active Military

Please Pray For

Doug Pecarina Deployed to Kuwait

Ben Pecarina Stationed in Turkey

DeAnna Strommen Deployed to Iraq

Will Dobbins Stationed at Camp Pendleton, CA

Fred Pierce Stationed in Miramar, CA

Cody Bauman Stationed at Fort Bragg, NC

Charles Mandery Army National Guard

Chris Paulsen-Schmidt Stationed at Norfolk, VA

Christopher Brophy Stationed at Fort Reiley, KS

Greg Bremseth Stationed at the MEPS in Houston, TX

Staying in Love

Falling in love is easy, but staying in love takes a lifetime of work. Pastor Luke will be facilitating a “Staying in Love” series for four weeks on Wednesday nights beginning on June 29, from 6:30-8pm.

There is no cost and you can still sign up at ZionBuffalo.org or contact Pastor Luke in the church office at lschmidt@zionbuffalo.org or 763.682.1245.

Truckload of LifeTruckload of LifeTruckload of LifeTruckload of Life Feeding the World …

One Meal at a Time

Harvest of Hands is starting to organize a Truckload of Life project that will involve Zion’s committees, groups, congregation, and the Buffalo community. This project is similar to the project Change for Children project undertaken by the Sunday School children and Harvest of Hand this past spring … only bigger.

Harvest of Hands committee members met with the Zion Staff to kick off this project, and are organizing a task force to start work on this project and collect ideas from Zion’s committees, groups, and the congregation. The event will be

held in April 2012, with a goal of packing at least 100,000 meals. Another key goal of the project is to raise awareness of the hunger need in the local community and around the world.

Everyone’s help will be needed for this project. Look for more information to come in the future, and get ready to get involved. The more hands involved, the more impact we have on the community and the world.

Contact a Harvest of Hands committee member for more information or go to www.ZionBuffalo.org/pack to get the latest information about this project as it becomes available.

Women’s Summer Bible StudyWomen’s Summer Bible StudyWomen’s Summer Bible StudyWomen’s Summer Bible Study Women of all ages are invited to one or both of two Summer Bible Study events to be held at Zion for women. These groups will be led by Seminary Student, Jill Davis on Tuesday, July 19, at 9:30am and Thursday, August 18 at 7pm.

Vital Mission ForumVital Mission ForumVital Mission ForumVital Mission Forum The second of three Vital Mission open forums will be held at 11:45am on Sunday, July 24.

The forum will focus on the document “Toward a Vital Mission”, which will be brought to the Annual Congregational Meeting in December. The document identifies four different positions that members of Zion hold concerning the ordination of gay and lesbian persons. “Toward a Vital Mission” attempts to acknowledge that while we may hold different positions on any particular social issue, Zion’s mission will remain on Christ centered ministry.

News & Views

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Rug Crochet ClassRug Crochet ClassRug Crochet ClassRug Crochet Class Harvest of Hands is sponsoring a class on crocheting rugs, taught by Gayle Dramen on Wednesday, July 13, at 7pm, and continuing on Wednesday, July 27.

There is also always a beading project going on at Harvest of Hands work nights, and you are welcome to bring your own project of choice with you.

Please join the Harvest of Hands group for an evening or morning of friendship. on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday morning or the 2nd and 4th Wednesday evening of each month in the Wilderness Room behind the kitchen. All are welcome.

We are looking for new ideas for new projects. If you have a craft idea to share with Harvest of Hands crafters, please visit the craft group or contact a member of the committee.

Marysville Ice Cream SocialMarysville Ice Cream SocialMarysville Ice Cream SocialMarysville Ice Cream Social Do you have fond memories of childhood church ice cream socials? Have you never yet experienced the delight of spending a warm summer evening with pie and friends and games on the church lawn?

This year’s annual ice cream social will be held at the beautiful Marysville Church on Monday, July 25, starting at 5pm. Come and celebrate the beautiful Marysville Church with some pie and ice cream before or after worship.

Worship services are held every Monday night in June, July & August at 7pm. For those who have never attended a historic Marysville service, this is the perfect opportunity to give it a try.

Marysville is just a short 10-15 minute drive from downtown Buffalo. From the stoplights by the courthouse/library, head west on Lake Blvd N/CR 35. After 3 miles turn left and follow CR 35/CR 9. After 1.8 miles turn left and continue on CR 9. Marysville is a further 2.5 miles on the right.

• A free will offering will support the Marysville Preservation Fund.

• If you would like to donate a pie for the occasion, please sign up by July 22 (pies can be brought with you to Marysville or dropped off at Zion during the day on Monday).

Zion Book Club

The Zion Book Club selection for July is Full Dark House by Christopher Fowler. The group will meet on Monday, July 11, at 7pm in the Library. This is the story of a murder mystery set in the Palace Theater during the London Blitz.

The selection for Monday, August 8, will be Blank Confession by Pete Hautman, a crime story involving a police detective, a bullied eleventh-grader, his sister’s drug-dealing boyfriend, and a mysterious new kid.

The selection for Monday, September 12, will be Cutting for Stone by Abraham Verghese, a novel about a devout young nun who leaves the south of India in 1947 for a missionary post in Yemen, and her twin sons who grow up with adoptive parents in Addis Ababa.

This is a low pressure book club. Readers are encouraged to simply come for discussion with no preparation.

Baptism Class

Zion offers a class for new or prospective parents wishing to schedule a baptism at Zion.

Anyone wishing to schedule a baptism is asked to attend a class prior to the date of the baptism. Expectant parents, as well as those who already are parents, may attend the class. Scheduling of baptisms will take place at the class.

The next classes are Wednesday, July 6, at 6pm or Sunday, August 14, at noon. Register at ZionBuffalo.org/Baptism or by calling the office.

Photo Directory Update

Photographers from Lifetouch will be at Zion from September 28-October 1 for directory update photography. This is a great opportunity for those who are new to Zion since 2008, or did not have your photo taken at that time to be added to Zion’s family album. Participants will receive a free 8x10 and directory. Go to ZionBuffalo.org/Lifetouch for appointment information.

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Fellowship & Study

Global Mission Ministry

Village of HopeVillage of HopeVillage of HopeVillage of Hope The Village of Hope is Zion’s global mission partner in Zambia, Africa.

Check out more Village of Hope blog entries like those above at the All Kids Can Learn International website: http://akcli.blogspot.com/.

Kent Goodroad

Kent Goodroad is the Youth Director at Zion’s mission partner, Redeemer Lutheran Church, working with confirmation, youth affiliated activities, retreats, some choirs, and youth leadership development.

Kent has a background in youth development and worked for the Hopkins-Minnetonka Park and Recreation services working with young people throughout high school. In college he worked for a youth service organization called Youthworks!, then taught English in France for a year before coming on staff at Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church in Minneapolis as the youth director. He was on staff for 2 years at Our Saviour’s, and has now been on staff with Redeemer Lutheran Church for almost 2 years.

Kent says, ”Redeemer is important to me because it convenes God’s broken people to figure out how to live and

(Kent Goodroad continued on page 14)

ZionBuffalo.org/Global 6

A Place for us to Imagine

by Kathleen Schwartz

Imagine…..

living in a neighborhood, really 2 block

s of a street where:

there were 48 children

you could be outside in wonderful weather about 85% of the year

there was the sound of happy children playing

much of the time

you could hear the squeak of the swings on the play set

you could hear the cheers from a soccer game being played

if you needed help there were many hands

volunteering to be the one(s)

walking down the street meant being greeted many times by,

“Hi Auntie” or “Hi, Uncle”

That is what it is like where I live, at the Village of Hope in

Zambia, Africa.

“Hot Showers!” By Kathleen Schwartz A funny thing happened recently. We needed

Felix, our resident artist, to repaint our roadside signs. These are big signs that advertise the Take-Away, Market, and Shower facilities (for truckers). Benedict asked him if he could add "hot" to the shower signs so that it would read "Hot Showers."

Felix: "Yes!" Benedict thought: "I wonder if he knows how to spell hot." So he asked, "Do you know how to spell hot:" Felix: "Yes!" Benedict thought: "I better check to make sure." So he asked, "How do you spell it?" Felix: "H -E-A-R-T"

So much for the accents we have! Although we thought to put "Heart showers" might get more business than "Hot Showers!"

Community Mission Ministry

Serving Local Children through the Serving Local Children through the Serving Local Children through the Serving Local Children through the Buffalo Food ShelfBuffalo Food ShelfBuffalo Food ShelfBuffalo Food Shelf Nutritious Summer Meals

Kid’s Choice is a program aimed to provide kids greater access to nutritious food this summer. Kids from families that have qualified for the free/reduced lunch programs in Buffalo School District Schools, or those who are clients of the Buffalo Food Shelf, will participate in a program where they will be able to go ‘shopping’ at the Food Shelf for breakfast and lunch items along with snacks and beverages.

The child will choose these items while being assisted by staff and volunteers. Zion members will be the hosts of two of these events this summer.

• The Zionaires seniors group already served on June 15.

• Additional volunteers can help the kids do their shopping at the food shelf on Wednesday, July 13, from 6-8pm.

School Supplies

Children involved in Kid’s Choice will also be able to get their school supplies at the Food Shelf on August 29 and 31. Here’s how you can help:

• A list of suggested supplies will be available online and in the weekly bulletin in mid July.

• Zion will be collecting school supplies in bins in the lobby/narthex starting in late July.

• Volunteers will assemble these supplies into kits by age group at Zion on Monday, August 29, from 9-11am.

• Help will be needed to distribute kits at the Food Shelf from 6-8pm on August 29 and 31.

Sign up at the Information Desk or in the church office to be part of either of these projects.

Community MealsCommunity MealsCommunity MealsCommunity Meals Last September a program was started to offer a free breakfast at the Buffalo Community Center which is advertised at the Food Shelf, through Social Workers, at other Government agencies, and at apartment buildings. Zion took on the first breakfast and we fed about 40 people. Other local churches and community groups continued to sponsor and serve this breakfast every 3rd Saturday of the month and it has grown to where we are now serving about 150 men, women and children each month.

As we start a new cycle, Zion will again participate by preparing and serving this meal on Saturday, September 17, at the Community Center. Please watch for more information next month as to how you can get involved!

Successful Blood Drive

Thanks to all who donated blood on May 19, or volunteered at the blood drive. 34 pints were collected. The next blood drive will be November 7.

Meals on Wheels

A big thank you to all who volunteered for Meals on Wheels during June! You delivered about 650 meals during the month. You covered 90 routes with about 50 different volunteers (3 per day for 7 days a week). A wonderful mission to help our neighbors in Buffalo! See you again in November!

Help Lead This Ministry

Zion’s Social Ministry Committee is looking for a few new members. The role of our committee is to mobilize our congregation to help people in need in our local community. We meet once a month to discuss ways we can provide this assistance. If you have an interest in more information about joining out team, you can contact any of out current members:

• Deb and Rick Johnson

• Beth Wychor

• Beth Jansen

• Cheryl Mager

• Judy Sandeen

• Mary and Wes Mahlberg

• Sandy and Roger Brenny

• Bev Koopman (Council liaison)

• Pastor Luke (Staff Rep)

Love INC

The Love INC clearinghouse is now open on Mondays and Wednesdays from 10am – 2pm. Their goal is to work with Christian churches of all denominations as well as government agencies to help those in need connect with the people that can best help them Contact Love INC at 763-682-6820 or loveincbigwoods.org to volunteer or find assistance.

ZionBuffalo.org/Local 7

Monday July 11 Grade 4-8 / Senior High at Wapo 6:00am Zion Day Camp 8:00am Men's Bible Study Group 6:00pm First Sunday Rehearsal 7:00pm Marysville Service 7:00pm Zion Book Club

Tuesday July 12 Grade 4-8 / Senior High at Wapo 6:00am Zion Day Camp 9:00am Kitchen Cleaning 9:30am Staff Meeting 6:30pm Outreach Evangelism Meeting 7:00pm Jubilee Rehearsal 7:00pm Global Missions Committee 7:30pm Visioning Task Force Meeting

Wednesday July 13 Grade 4-8 / Senior High at Wapo 6:00am Zion Day Camp 9:00am Lutheran Social Service 10:00am Devotions at Park View 6:30pm Staying in Love Series 7:00pm Harvest of Hands Rug Class

Thursday July 14 Grade 4-8 / Senior High at Wapo 6:00am Zion Day Camp

Friday July 15 Grade 4-8 / Senior High at Wapo 6:00am Zion Day Camp 10:00am Lutheran Social Services 9:00pm Zion Men's Softball Game

Saturday July 16 TBA Gospel Choir Rehearsal in

Minneapolis

Sunday July 17 Holy Communion at 8:30 and 10:30 8:30am Traditional Worship Service 9:30am Coffee Fellowship 9:45am Family Express Worship 10:30am Contemporary Worship Service 2:00pm Park View Devotions 7:00pm Reaching Out Gospel Festival at

Sturges Park

Monday July 18 6:00am Zion Day Camp 8:00am Newsletter Deadline 8:00am Men's Bible Study Group 6:00pm First Sunday Rehearsal 7:00pm Marysville Service

Tuesday July 19 6:00am Zion Day Camp 9:30am Staff Meeting 9:30am Women’s Summer Bible Study 5:30pm Stewardship Meeting 6:30pm Christian Education Committee 7:00pm Property Committee Meeting 7:00pm Jubilee Rehearsal 7:30pm Visioning Task Force Meeting

Wednesday July 20 6:00am Zion Day Camp 7:00am Men's 50+ Bible Study 9:00am Lutheran Social Service 9:15am Devotions at Sunrise 6:00pm Worship and Music Committee 6:30pm Staying in Love Series 7:30pm Church Council Meeting

Thursday July 21 6:00am Zion Day Camp 7:00pm Foundation Meeting

Friday July 22 6:00am Zion Day Camp 10:00am Lutheran Social Services

Saturday July 23

Sunday July 24 Senior High Mission Trip 8:30am Traditional Worship Service 9:30am Coffee Fellowship 9:45am Family Express Worship 10:30am Contemporary Worship Service 11:45am Vital Mission Forum

Monday July 25 Senior High Mission Trip 6:00am Zion Day Camp 8:00am Men's Bible Study Group 5:30pm Read to Feed the Mind Meeting 6:00pm First Sunday Rehearsal 5:00pm Marysville Ice Cream Social 7:00pm Marysville Worship Service

ZionBuffalo.org/Calendar 8

Friday July 1 6:00am Zion Day Camp 10:00am Lutheran Social Services 9:00pm Zion Men's Softball Game

Saturday July 2

Sunday July 3 Holy Communion at 8:30, 9:45, and

10:30 8:30am Traditional Worship Service 9:30am Coffee Fellowship 9:45am Family Express Worship 10:30am Contemporary Worship Service 11:45am Executive Committee Meeting

Monday July 4 Independence Day 8:00am Men's Bible Study Group 6:00pm First Sunday Rehearsal 7:00pm Marysville Service

Tuesday July 5 6:00am Zion Day Camp 9:30am Staff Meeting 6:30pm Social Ministry Committee 7:00pm Jubilee Rehearsal

Wednesday July 6 6:00am Zion Day Camp 7:00am Men's 50+ Bible Study 6:30pm Staying In Love Series 7:00pm Gospel Choir Rehearsal

Thursday July 7 6:00am Zion Day Camp

Friday July 8 Grade 2-3 / Senior High at Wapo 6:00am Zion Day Camp 10:00am Lutheran Social Services 8:00pm Zion Men's Softball Game

Saturday July 9 Grade 2-3 / Senior High at Wapo

Sunday July 10 Grade 2-3 / 4-8 / Senior High at Wapo 8:30am Traditional Worship Service 9:30am Coffee Fellowship 9:45am Family Express Worship 10:30am Contemporary Worship Service

July Calendar

Tuesday July 26 Senior High Mission Trip 6:00am Zion Day Camp 9:30am Staff Meeting 7:00pm Jubilee Rehearsal 7:00pm Personnel Committee Meeting

Wednesday July 27 Senior High Mission Trip 6:00am Zion Day Camp 9:00am Newsletter Assembly 9:00am Lutheran Social Service 9:20am Devotions at Lakeridge 10:30am Devotions at Park View 7:00pm Harvest of Hands Crafts 7:00pm Zion Foundation Meeting

Thursday July 28 Senior High Mission Trip 6:00am Zion Day Camp

Friday July 29 Senior High Mission Trip 6:00am Zion Day Camp 10:00am Lutheran Social Services

Saturday July 30 Senior High Mission Trip 4:00pm Wedding at Zion

Sunday July 31 8:30am Traditional Worship Service 9:30am Coffee Fellowship 9:45am Family Express Worship 10:30am Contemporary Worship Service

ZionBuffalo.org/GospelFestival 9

Reaching Out Gospel FestivalReaching Out Gospel FestivalReaching Out Gospel FestivalReaching Out Gospel Festival Sunday, July 17 at Sturges Park

The Reaching Out Gospel Festival is a collaborative effort between Zion Lutheran in Buffalo and Redeemer Lutheran in Minneapolis bringing together multiple congregations to form a gospel choir which will perform at the Sturges Park bandshell on Sunday, July 17, at 7pm. Gospel music is the core unifying thread and will be presented by this mass choir, various small groups, and accomplished band members.

Since the concert is in Sturges Park, your family and friends are invited to bring a picnic, lawn chairs or blankets and enjoy a night of great music at the bandshell. Inclement weather location is the Zion sanctuary.

Members of Redeemer, Zion and other community members will make up the gospel choir. Backing up the choir will be some of the same great musicians from last year. Just as gospel music changes depending on the musicians, the gospel fest will differ slightly from last year’s event. A later start time will bring us closer to sunset which may mean cooler temperatures. Even though the JUMP rap team from Redeemer aren’t able to perform again this year, Pastor Kelly Chatman and other members of Redeemer will be present.

• Are you interested in being part of the mass gospel choir that’s being formed especially in preparation for this year's Festival? Spirited rehearsals will be held at Zion, on Wednesdays, through July 6, from 7-8:45pm. Rehearsals will also be held in Minneapolis, including a “dress rehearsal” with the band on Saturday, July 16. Choir members do not need to attend rehearsals at both Zion and Minneapolis locations. Scored music with parts will be provided, but songs will be taught so that non-readers of all ages can still fully participate. Contact Lisa Olson at Lisa88keys@hotmail.com with rehearsal questions.

• If you are interested in setting up a food stand as a fundraiser during the Gospel Festival, talk to Sherilyn (682.1245 or sburgdorf@zionbuffalo.org).

Financial ReportFinancial ReportFinancial ReportFinancial Report May 2011

General Services Fund

Income May 2011 YTD 2011 May 2010 YTD 2010 General Offering $49,889.50 $281,230.14 $54,619.00 $286,157.15

Rent and Sunday School 2,269.36 10,766.52 965.78 10,238.87

WedNite Supper Income 198.00 4,334.42 0.00 0.00

Missions and Hunger 1,303.00 5,594.00 834.00 5,328.00

Other Designations 515.00 6,617.50 1,514.00 7,210.25

Total Income $54,174.86 $308,542.58 $57,932.78 $308,934.27

Expenses Synod Benevolence $1,000.00 $5,000.00 $1,500.00 $7,500.00

Other General Services 53,716.52 292,201.61 48,940.77 292,117.53

Total Expenses $54,716.52 $297,201.61 $50,440.77 $299,617.53

Ledger Balance as of 5-31-2011: $-6,148.38

The new loan from Thrivent Financial for Lutherans was closed on May 6, 2011. This loan consolidated all of Zion’s debt into one loan — the general mortgage, the second mortgage and the outstanding line of credit. Feel free to contact any member of the Finance Committee for further information. Only an interest payment was due in May 2011 for the new Thrivent Loan.

A Promising Tomorrow/Building Fund

Income May 2011 YTD 2011 May 2010 YTD 2010 Offerings and Interest $16,741.65 $82,903.97 $16,346.00 $85,025.04

Other Receipts 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

Total Income $16,741.65 $82,903.97 $16,346.00 $85,025.04

Expenses Building Mortgage $3,553.00 $71,902.20 $17,087.30 $85,436.50

Roof/Parking Lot Loan 0.00 3,653.48 1,305.03 6,525.15

Major Building Repairs 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

3% Tithe Commitment 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

Kairos Consulting 5,000.00 15,000.00 -5,000.00 5,000.00

2011 Thrivent Loan Fees -3,262.50 0.00 0.00 0.00

Bank Service Charge 15.00 30.00 15.00 30.00

Total Expenses $5,290.50 $90,585.68 $13,407.33 $96,991.65

Leger Balance as of 5-31-2011: $24,304.67

Thank you for your continued support of God’s work at Zion Lutheran Church.

Help Fix Zion's Pipe Organ

The Pipe Organ task force continues to move the organ repair project ahead through the summer months. Repair and renovation is needed on the pipe organ to keep it in fine working order.

Here’s how you can contribute:

• Give to the organ fund directly.

• Donate through the Memorial Committee as a memorial.

• If you are a Thrivent insurance holder with Thrivent Choice Dollars to designate, consider directing them toward the pipe organ fund.

• The "Growing Faith" print used at Zion during Lent is available in the office and at the information desk (with or without mat and also matted and framed).

• CD sets of The Messiah, recorded on April 17 at Zion by the Zion Senior Choir and Wright County Chamber Chorus are available in the office and at the information desk.

Summer Musicians

Use your talents this summer to provide special music for one of our summer worship services on Sunday mornings. Instrumentalists, pianists, vocalists, groups or solos… you are invited!

There’s a special music spot on Monday nights at Marysville too!

Contact Sherilyn Burgdorf or Mike Walsh to volunteer.

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Finance & Stewardship

Focusing Our Vision on God's CallFocusing Our Vision on God's CallFocusing Our Vision on God's CallFocusing Our Vision on God's Call Finding Our gifts as Disciples

The Vision Task Force continues to make progress toward presenting a vision for Zion for the next several years at our 2011 annual congregational meeting in December.

Following the congregational assessment in February, a group of church council members, staff and other church leaders met in March to discuss it's key findings. In May, the Vision Task Force hosted several small group sessions to gather more input and members were also invited to submit written responses. We continue to summarize the information that we have gathered from you as we move toward identifying key focus areas for Zion.

During the summer months, Pastor Ted and Pastor Luke will continue in prayer and study about where they believe God is leading Zion, and the staff will provide their input on the vision and initiatives that are being shaped. The Vision Task Force will round out the summer by prayerfully developing a vision and recommending initiatives, which will continue to be shared and discussed with the congregation as we move through the fall.

As always, the Vision Task Force welcomes and appreciates your comments and questions.

Members of the Vision Task Force are Jill Davis, Rick Johnson, Julie Kabe, Karen Mattson, Scott Morin, Diane Paulu, Idella Ziegler, Pastor Ted Vanderpan, Pastor Luke Schmidt, and Jim Pence (KAIROS consultant).

KusakililakuKusakililakuKusakililakuKusakililaku By Tom Moline

Often I use the stewardship article in the newsletter to quote the Bible in hopes of motivating the people of Zion to give of their precious time, talents or treasures. As I think over the last year I realize that you are the most generous people that I know.

Today I’ll just echo some of the voices from around the world and say thank you.

• In Zambia the word for thank you is Kusakililaku. Some there say Kusakililaku for the ministry that Dave and Sue Wright brought to the AKCLI Villages of Hope. Many people at Zion gave the financial support needed to make it possible.

• In Jamaica they are saying Tanks. Twenty-three volunteers from Zion went there in March. They built a home, gave medical care and helped in other ways. The bags they brought into the country were heavy with donations from the Zion congregation.

• Domo arigato is heard throughout the area devastated by the earthquake and tsunami in Japan. Your donations combined with other congregations of the

(Kusakililaku continued on page 14)

Thank You

How does one say thank you to so many kind and generous people. Our gratitude and appreciation to you all.

A special thank you to Margaret and Sue Polzine as well as the amazing musicians and friends. Thank you to Thrivent Financial for Lutherans for your generous donation.

Also, thank you to Zion Lutheran Church for the use of our church and all the help from Zion members and friends, it won’t be forgotten. The outpouring of care and concern, your words of encouragement and support for Adam and his family have been unbelievable.

The Lord is good. Blessings to you all.

Gary & Sandy Brophy Adam & Mackenzie Brophy

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reflect on what God has called us to do with our lives as followers of Christ.

We all need time away from the daily pressure of work. Time away helps us gain a better perspective. We all need time to reflect on our life’s work. Processing life’s joys and pains, takes time, time that isn’t consumed by other activities. God created that time for each of us. We don’t need to wait for an annual vacation. God invites you to take time - each week - to be refreshed and renewed. God created the Sabbath to benefit you and the benefit comes through worshipping with God’s people, hearing God’s word, and through singing God’s praise.

Renewal and refreshment for life, the Bible calls it the Sabbath rest.

(Rest and Relaxation continued from page 3)

Confirmation RegistrationConfirmation RegistrationConfirmation RegistrationConfirmation Registration Registration for Confirmation for all new students and returning students who will be in grade 7 or 8 in Fall of 2011 is now open online at ZionBuffalo.org/Youth. Registrations close on Friday, August 19, and late registrations cannot be accepted.

Parents: Confirmation small group guides are needed as well. Take time to prayerfully consider making a two year commitment to foster the spiritual relationships of students.

Senior High Mission TripSenior High Mission TripSenior High Mission TripSenior High Mission Trip For all of the Senior High students attending the Buffeapolis Mission Trip, here is an update of upcoming dates:

• Saturday, July 23: 4:30pm - 5pm - Packing Party - Youth Room: This will be a time to bring all of your items that you need for the mission trip, health forms/meds and check-in.

• Sunday July 24: 10:30am Worship Service - Sending Service - Sanctuary: This will be a worship service to commission those that are participating on the mission trip.

• Sunday July 31: All Services - Mission Trip Reflections: This will be a time to share with Zion some stories/reflections of the mission trip.

Middle School Canoe TripMiddle School Canoe TripMiddle School Canoe TripMiddle School Canoe Trip Students in grades 6-8 are invited to canoe the Namekogan and St. Croix Rivers from Thursday, August 4 to Saturday, August 6.

Sign up by June 15 with a non-refundable deposit of $25. The total cost is only $70, which covers canoe rental and food.

Friday Breakfast CrewFriday Breakfast CrewFriday Breakfast CrewFriday Breakfast Crew The Crew will gather at Perkins on Friday, July 8 to catch up, pray and share a meal together! During the summer we’ll meet at 8am to give everyone a chance to sleep in.

This is open to all students who will be in Grades 9-12 in the Fall of 2011. Don’t forget money for your food and a tip for the servers who do a great job!

Graceland Summer ScheduleGraceland Summer ScheduleGraceland Summer ScheduleGraceland Summer Schedule Graceland, the Senior High youth group, will not meet through July to give everyone a chance to rest.

• Graceland will meet August 10 & 24 from 6pm-8pm in the Youth Room.

Each night, there will be a meal, worship, games, and/or study. These nights are open to all students who will be in grades 9-12 in Fall 2011. Each night will have a different theme, so come prepared with a Bible and notebook.

Youth Ministry Director of Youth Ministries

Myron Crawford 763-682-1245 ext. 308

MCrawford@ZionBuffalo.org

Zion Youth Ministries exists to reach out to youth, to come

together and learn how to be for God and others through worship, study, fellowship and service.

Confirmation Classes

Just a reminder to all Confirmation Students: All requirements must be fulfilled by August 1.

This means that the following must be completed for each year :

• 30 Sermon Notes (10 from Sunday mornings at Zion, 3 from Lenten Services)

• 30 Service Hours (10 Church, 10 Community, 10 Family)

• 4 Worksheets

• 4 Memory Sheets

• 9 Family Devotions

• 3 Mentor Lessons

• 3 Statements of Faith

If you need any resources, please go to zionbuffalo.org/confirmation.

Still Need service hours?

ZionBuffalo.org/Youth 12

Vacation Bible SchoolVacation Bible SchoolVacation Bible SchoolVacation Bible School “Thank you” isn’t enough to say. It takes so many volunteers to turn VBS into a wonderful faith-building, fun-filled week for so many children from Zion and the community. Thank you to all of the volunteers who helped with decorating, set-up, leading, cutting dresses and other projects, sewing dresses, sorting, painting, teaching, donating supplies, caring for kids, cleaning , taking down and putting away. Thank you for donating time and finances to make a faithful impact on the hearts of 350 kids this week and so many more in Jamaica who will receive our gifts of clothing.

Check out the photos below and many more at ZionBuffalo.org/VBS/Photos.

Children’s Ministry

Summer Childcare at Zion

Zion Day Camp (ZDC) is a summer program at Zion for children who have just finished Kindergarten, through 12 years old, and is open weekdays throughout the summer from 6:30am until 6pm. Daily activities include free time and snacks, Bible stories, structured games, and creative projects.

Staffing has been determined based on June registration, so you may be put on a waiting list until additional staff hours are warranted.

Sunday School Registration

Summer has only begun, but it’s already time to plan for fall ... Watch for Sunday school registration to begin soon.

CoDirectors of Christian Education

Holly Husom 763-682-1245 x308

HHusom@ZionBuffalo.org

Roxie Otten 763-682-1245 ext. 311

ROtten@ZionBuffalo.org

ZionBuffalo.org/Children 13

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work together to bring about reconciliation, hope, and positive change in the North Minneapolis and beyond [and] Redeemer is important to the community because it reminds people that they are children of God. There are so many stereotypes and mixed messages about the city. Redeemer helps to ground people in the reality that they are loved by God, and that God loves them for the gift of who they are. Redeemer helps people to be the best person he/she can be.”

Thrivent Family Fun

Members of Thrivent Financial for Lutherans are eligible for upcoming discounts including Family Day at the MN Zoo on July 17, Faith & Family night at the MN Lynx on July 29, and Lutheran Night at the Twins on August 22 & 23. Find details at www.Thrivent.com/memberperks.

(Kent Goodroad continued from page 6)

ELCA are helping to rebuild and ease suffering.

• In Haiti they still say Mèsi plen for your generous donations.

• People from the South side of Chicago said thank you to the youth from Zion that served there through their mission trip last summer. Your donations helped make it possible.

• In April, Over 20,000 meals were packaged for OutReach International Kids Care by Zion’s Sunday School kids and parents. Families all around the world are saying Tinotenda, Yuuminsame, Gracies and Dhanyabad to God for the meals packed by these young hands.

These are just a few of the many voices thanking God for your generosity. Tusen takk.

Translations from: http://users.elite.net/runner/jennifers/thankyou.htm

(Kusakililaku continued from page 11)

Coming in September

The Table Project Zion’s Own Online Community

Prayer Wall ~ Directory ~ Small Groups ~ Share & Serve

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Rest and Relaxation 3

Truckload of Life 4

Ice Cream Social 5

Women’s Summer Study 5

Gospel Festival 9

Kusakililaku 11

Confirmation Registration 12

VBS Photos 13

July 2

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July 17

Coming Soon

The Table Project