THE ZUMBROCurrentOur journey of faith leads us to build bridges

of understanding and peace, to reach out with compassion, and to share the hope of Jesus.

Zumbro Lutheran Church | A member of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America

MAY 2019

2 PASTOR'S ARTICLEPastor Jason explains the

importance of the special

congregational meeting on

May 19.

6GET TO KNOW CONNIEZumbro's resident "Sheriff"-let's

take a peek behind her counter

and learn more about her.

3DISCERNMENTWe ask God to “set in us a sure foundation” for the ministry and mission we’ve been given to do.

7BELLS & BRASSEnjoy the hardwork of

Zumbro's handbell and brass

instrumentalists at their year-end

concert.

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Special Congregational

MeetingOn Sunday, May 19, we are holding a special congregational meeting to consider approval of planned building renovations, and accompanying financing plan, including a capital campaign.I hope you will mark this on your calendars and plan to attend. Years of discussions, months of planning, and careful listening to the congregation has led to this vote. It is an exciting time to be imagining how God will work through our congregation as our church and community continue to change and grow.

Zumbro has long been a leader in imagining how our congregation, and our building, serve both our members and the community. Fifty years ago, the members of our church marched from the brownstone traditional church building down the street to our current modern multipurpose facility. A couple months ago, I came upon the “Heritage Journal” that Zumbro produced for our 125th Anniversary in 1990. In it, Pastor John Trelstad, who was senior pastor at the time this building was constructed, recounted why Zumbro chose to build a church so unlike the one from which they moved.

Pastor Trelstad emphasized the flexibility of space throughout the building. He noted back in 1969,

“A concept basic in our planning was to build a church that would be multifunctional…including the worship area itself. For this reason, the chancel furnishings should be moveable. The pews were to be impermanent to accommodate various seating arrangements for concerts and other events.”

Our plans for 2019 and beyond continue in this same spirit. We seek further flexibility to accommodate a variety of events and worship experiences in our sanctuary. Smaller interlocking pews would allow us to configure the space for a smaller funeral or wedding. Additionally, a moveable chancel would allow us to remove or expand it for concerts like Choral Arts Emsemble or a college orchestra.

Trelstad recalled working with a committee that analyzed all the possible events and activities a new church building needed to accommodate. They put together a statement to guide their decisions that read, in part,

“This church must be a living part of the community, stretching out and drawing to it visitors and residents, young and old, members and non-members. Its very appearance must proclaim a church that invites people to participate in the wholesome, worthwhile Christian activities at all hours of the day and every day of the week.”

Over the years, we have embodied this vision by serving as a meeting place for all kinds of ministries and partnerships. Today, we seek to build on the foundation of those who saw that “the church building itself is to be a servant to the Rochester community.” As we look ahead to this building project, we are envisioning ways our building plays a meaningful role in serving our current congregation, our neighbors, and community partners.

Imagine that in addition to the ministries we serve now, how our spaces on the main floor could welcome college students from Luther College and UMR to study in groups or be spiritually fed as part of our congregation. Imagine welcoming homeless youth to find a safe and warm space after school to study and get support from Lutheran Social Services at a drop-in center in our lower level, as part of the campaign’s tithe for mission. Imagine an entrance where people of all physical abilities can enter through the same set of doors and access the three levels of our building without needing to use the outdoor ramp. These are just a few of the possibilities that we could make happen on May 19.

More details about the building project and the potential ministries that could come from it will be discussed at the May 5, ZED Talk at 9:35am in the sanctuary. To get up to speed, look for the Reimagining Our Future document that was emailed or pick up a copy at the usher’s stand.

It is an exciting time in the life of Zumbro Lutheran Church. Thank you for your commitment to our mission and the ministries that serve so many people.

Plan to participate in the meeting on May 19. In the meantime, I ask for your prayers as we consider taking a bold step into the future for the sake of our congregation and community.

Peace,

Pastor Jason

WORSHIP

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Worship DetailsNursery HoursSUNDAYS | 8:15-11:45am

WEDNESDAYS | 6-8:15pm

Planning a BaptismContact the church office to schedule a baptism.

SUGGESTED DATES & TIMESSUNDAY | 8:30am & 10:30amMay 12

SUNDAY | 8:30am & 10amMay 26June 9, 23, 30 July 14, 28

WEDNESDAY | 6:15pmMay 1, 15, 29June 12, 26July 17, 31

“Form and Shape a New Creation”2 Corinthians 5:11-21 SUNDAY, MAY 5 | 8:30am and 10:30amHoly Communion with Prayers for HealingPreaching: Pastor Jason Bryan-WegnerMusic: Zumbro Lutheran Choir (8:30am), Zumbro Youth Band and Strings, Zumbro Saxophone Ensemble (10:30am)

“Help Us to Share Your Love with the World”1 Corinthians 13SUNDAY, MAY 12 | 8:30am and 10:30amHoly Communion (10:30am)Preaching: Pastor Vern ChristophersonMusic: Bel Canto Handbell Choir (8:30 and 10:30am), Zumbro Choristers and Junior Ringers (8:30am), Zumbro Lutheran Choir (10:30am)

“Lord, Give Us Vision and Keep Us Sure”Ephesians 2:11-22 SUNDAY, MAY 19 | 8:30am and 10:30amHoly Communion with Prayers for HealingPreaching: Pastor Vern ChristophersonMusic: Zumbro Lutheran Choir (8:30am), Zumbro Baroque Ensemble (8:30am and 10:30am), Emily Schmidt (10:30am)

SUNDAY, MAY 26 | 8:30am and 10am *Summer Worship HoursHoly Communion (10:30am)Preaching: Pastor Jason Bryan-WegnerHymn Sing Sunday

Worship at HomeWe broadcast the 8:30am Sunday

worship service on our website for

those who wish to participate in

worship yet are not able to sit in the

pew that day. An archive of worship

services is kept for those wanting

to go back and hear a particular

sermon or musical selection. Visit

www.zumbrolutheran.org/worship-

live-stream

Summer Hymn Sings ReturnZumbro offers special Hymn

Sings on the fourth Sunday of

the month during the summer,

starting May 26, to sing some

of your favorite hymns during

worship. You will have an

opportunity to share in the Life

of Zumbro what your favorite

hymns are and why they are so

meaningful. We will sing some

and also share why they are

so meaningful in the Sunday

bulletin.

SERIES: BUILD US UP, LORDAs we get closer to our congregational meeting on May 19, we are in a time of

discernment regarding our facility. Our Easter sermon series ties in with that discernment,

and is entitled Build Us Up, Lord. With whatever plans we make, we ask God to “set in us a

sure foundation” for the ministry and mission we’ve been given to do.

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ZED Talks May 2019May 5 - Building Renovation Update and PreviewPresenters: Building Leadership Team On May 19, between services the congregation will be considering the building renovation proposal developed by several

working groups and led by the Building Leadership Team. This ZED Talk will provide members a detailed look at the

designs and the process that has led to the decisions made along the way. This discussion will take place in the sanctuary.

May 12 – Developing a Dementia Friendly Community Presenters: Lynne Hermann, Dementia Friends ChampionDementia Friends is a global movement that is striving to create more dementia friendly communities by changing the

way people think, act, and talk about dementia. Developed by the Alzheimer’s Society in the United Kingdom, Dementia

Friends is underway in Minnesota and across the United States. By helping everyone in a community understand what

dementia is and how it affects people, each of us can make a difference for someone living with dementia.

May 19 – Special Congregational Meeting A special congregational meeting has been called by the church council, will take place in the Sanctuary at 9:20am. At

this meeting we will consider the building renovation, infrastructure replacement, and funding proposal developed by

congregational input and compiled by the Building Leadership Team.

Dear People of Zumbro,

You may be aware that I’ve had a herniated disc in my cervical spine since August. I’ve tried a variety of conservative treatment approaches, including physical therapy and cortisone injections. Unfortunately, these approaches have been unsuccessful in fully relieving the pain I’m experiencing in my neck and subsequent nerve pain in my arm.

On Monday, Apr. 29, I will have surgery on my spine. For those of you in the medical field, this will be an anterior cervical discectomy and fusion at C5-6. Dr. Ahmed Nassr will be my surgeon.

The first question that many ask is if this was caused by my car accident back in July of 2017. It is unlikely. My doctor notes quite a bit of stenosis, bone spurs, and age-related wear and tear of the cervical discs. Unfortunately, it is fairly likely that the extensive biking I did last summer exasperated my symptoms.

I expect to spend a night or two in the hospital and be on medical leave for 6-8 weeks. I will have to wear a cervical collar for several weeks and will need to abide by a variety of restrictions to do my part to help the fusion work.

While I’m not looking forward to surgery or being away for so long, I am looking forward to taking the next step toward relieving the chronic pain I’ve been dealing with for the past eight months. It will be a hard time to be away from Zumbro. We are in the midst of exciting times and new ministry initiatives. I hate to miss out! I am also acutely aware of the extra burden my absence creates for both my colleagues and ministry team leaders. To each of them I offer my deep gratitude.

I covet your prayers and look forward to my return to ministry with you.

Pastor Lisa

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Seven Questions with Connie Saunders Administrative Assistant

That cherub of a baby wasn't born yesterday, but she has the joy of a baby. Connie has a stomach of steel and the memory of an elephant--she forgets nothing! She can even tell you the type of lunchbox she had in second grade, and who she sat with at lunch on October 9, 1972.

1. How would you describe yourself and your personality?Quiet, shy, introvert. NOT. I’ve been talking almost since the day I was born. Several years ago, the congregation was asked to share some of the personality traits of Zumbro’s personnel. A few words that were mentioned on my behalf were organized, knowledgeable, caring, fun. I’ll take that.

2. Who is your role model? Why?A friend of our family’s was the church secretary at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Waverly, Iowa. While in high school I had already decided I wanted to be a secretary, and Lois’ job seemed perfect (the hours, people she worked with, church setting). After college I worked in the chaplain’s office at St. Luke ‘s Hospital in Cedar Rapids IA. It’s also where I met my husband, Bob. For over 45 years I’ve worked at a nonprofit. (Must’ve stared when I was 10.)

3. Tell us a little about your role as Administrative Assistant at ZLC.Chief cook and bottle washer. Jack of all trades, master of none. Having 2,949 “bosses ” can be challenging, but I always have a lot of answers, just not always the right one for your question. And did I mention the constant interruptions? I’m not called “The Sheriff” because of my good looks.

4. What are some of the biggest lessons that you’ve learned in your career?Listening and staying focused. With so many interruptions, it’s very important to take notes (yes, I still use shorthand). A good sense of humor and a smile are important, too.

5. If you could wave a magic wand and accomplish one thing at Zumbro today, what would you choose?If I could wave my magic wand (and it does sit on my desk!), I would create an opportunity for a personal chef for the staff. No more brown bag lunches, "science project" leftovers, or Progresso soup. If it’s not in the church’s budget, the next wave of the wand would be giving our building the facelift it needs. I know money isn’t everything, and it doesn’t buy happiness, but it would go a long way to get everything on the wish list accomplished and no more debt at Zumbro.

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6. What inspires you to come to work each day?Where else can you spend your day with almost 3,000 of your friends? It was very easy for me to say, “Yes,” when Pastor Gary Benson invited me to be part of the Zumbro staff in 1997. I was fortunate enough to be a congregation member before beginning my work here, so I knew a lot of the names and faces.

7. Hobbies?Traveling to new cities and places. We’ve been to Alaska, Mexico, western United States, but our favorite destination is Naples, FL. This year’s summer travels will take us to the Calgary

Stampede. Like Dr. Seuss says, “Oh, the places you will go.” Days of Our Lives is more of a life-style than a hobby, but I rarely miss an episode. And our five grandchildren. Everyone says if it

was possible, and they had known grandparenting would be so much more fun than having children, they would’ve stared with the grandchildren. Amen!

FREE ADMISSION

Smiles of Fun this SummerVBS & VBS +PLUS+JUNE 17-21 | 9am-12pm

THREE-YEARS-OLD--SIXTH GRADE

Your kids will travel to the African

desert June 17-21 for Roar Vacation

Bible School! This epic African

adventure engages the whole herd. At

Roar, kids three-year olds-6th grade,

explore God’s goodness and celebrate

a ferocious faith that powers them

through this wildlife. Middle school,

high school, and adult volunteers are needed.

The afternoon serving opportunity, VBS +PLUS+, will happen during this

week as well. Immediately following VBS June 17-20. This is open to kids in

kindergarten-12th grade. Adult volunteers are needed.

Art CampJULY 29-31 | 9AM-12PM

AUGUST 1 | 9AM-3PM

KINDERGARTEN-12TH GRADE

This week-long camp will give young

artists an opportunity to explore

a variety of art mediums as they

experience Bible stories. Possible

mediums will include paints, oil

pastels, watercolor, crayon resist,

marker, colored pencils, collage,

printmaking, and hand stitching.

Family CampAUGUST 9-11

IRONWOOD SPRINGS CHRISTIAN

RANCH, STEWARTVILLE, MN

Family Camp is back this summer and

it’s going to be great! Plan a weekend

of relaxing, playing, and encountering

God in all kinds of fun ways with

your family and church community!

Accommodations range from tent

camping to cabins to hotel style

rooms.

Self-Care for Caring PeopleSATURDAY, MAY 18 | 10:30am-12pm

ZUMBRO KAIROS ROOM

Save the date for Harlan Wickre,

retired psychologist and Zumbro

member, to present strategies for

personal well being and self care

with an emphasis on breath. More

information will be in the Life of

Zumbro.

High School Graduate SundaySUNDAY, JUNE 2 | 10AM

The high school seniors and families

will be recognized and blessed

during the 10am worship service.

Learn more and register for each event at zumbrolutheran.org/summer-activities

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Memorial WeekendSUNDAY, MAY 26 | 9:15AM

COLUMBARIUM AT ZUMBRO

All are welcome to gather

inside the Columbarium for a

brief service in honor of loved

ones who have died. We will

give thanks to God for the lives

of those we have lost, and be

reminded of God's reassuring

promise of everlasting life.

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Vern ChristophersonDirecting Pastorpastorvern@zumbrolutheran.org

Jason Bryan-WegnerPastorpastorjason@zumbrolutheran.org

Lisa KippPastorpastorlisa@zumbrolutheran.org

Shelley CunninghamPastorpastorshelley@zumbrolutheran.org

Kristy GiereMusic Ministerkristygiere@zumbrolutheran.org

Janette ReevesFamily Ministerjanettereeves@zumbrolutheran.org

Allison PassonCommunications Director allisonpasson@zumbrolutheran.org

Connie SaundersAdministrative Assistantconniesaunders@zumbrolutheran.org

Ruth MonsonCongregational Life Minister ruthmonson@zumbrolutheran.org

Tracy ScharBusiness Managertracyschar@zumbrolutheran.org

Sarah LichtyDirector of Missionsarahlichty@zumbrolutheran.org

Bob GiereDirector of Zumbro Lutheran ChoirDirector of Wednesday Worship Band bobgiere@gmail.org

Ralph SchornackMusic Assistant

Robert Schneider Building Manager robertschneider@zumbrolutheran.org

Karla DexterOffice Assistantkarladexter@zumbrolutheran.org

Kamen MakuerDinka Lay Evangelistmakuerkamen@yahoo.com

Barb DesensNursery Coordinator

Zumbro Staff

ZWELCA Action ProjectsONE KIT INCLUDES:

• 2 lightweight cotton T-shirts

• 2 long- or short-sleeved gowns or sleepers - without feet

• 2 receiving blankets, medium weight cotton or flannel, up to 52” square

• 4 cloth diapers - flat fold preferred

• 1 jacket, sweater or sweatshirt - with a hood, or include a baby cap

• 2 pairs of socks

• 1 hand towel - dark color recommended

• 2 bars soap – bath size (4-5 oz), gentle, in original wrapper

• 2 diaper pins - or large safety pins.

Gently used, clean items (no stains or tears) may be substituted for new ones.

Please donate what you can. Please place items in the Action Box outside of

the lounge.

BENEFICIARY: Lutheran World Relief - Baby Care Kits

Ongoing ProjectEyeglasses for Lion’s Club

(Note: Deposit eyeglasses in container near the coat room.)

April Pastoral ActsBAPTISM

Emmett John Bergquist

GONE BEFORE US

Dode Ostrom

Eight Fabric Kits for Lutheran World Relief were created an donated because of

the March donations. Your giving matters.

SAVE THE DATEMINNESOTA ALL-STATE

LUTHERAN CHOIR CONCERT

SATURDAY, JUNE 22 | 7PM

ZUMBRO SANCTUARY

A free-will offering will be received.

The choir will also sing at the

8:30am Sunday morning worship

on June 23.

We will need to provide housing

for 50 singers along with 4 college-

age students. Sign up in the Life

of Zumbro to help with housing,

ushering, greeting and assistance

with a pre-concert meal.

Non-Profit Organization

U.S. POSTAGEPAID

Permit No. 344Rochester, MN 55901

www.zumbrolutheran.org (507) 288-2649

Return Service Requested

Time Dated Material

Newsletter DeadlinePlease submit items for the June issue

of the Zumbro Current by May 15, to

Allison Passon at allisonpasson@zumbrolutheran.org

PLACE LABEL HERE

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