Heritage Herald – November 2024 Edition
From Pastor’s Desk
Great Luther sayings….
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In Commemoration of the Lutheran Reformation, October 31, 1517 ad.
Martin Luther (1483 – 1546, 63 years)
It would be a good thing if young people were wise and old people were strong, but God has arranged things better. MARTIN LUTHER
I never work better than when I am inspired by anger; for when I am angry, I can write, pray, and preach well, for then my whole temperament is quickened, my understanding sharpened, and all mundane vexations and temptations depart. Martin Luther (1483-1546), Table-Talk, 319
I have a better Caretaker than you and all the angels. He it is who lies in a manger … but at the same time sits at the right hand of God, the almighty Father. Therefore be at rest. — Martin Luther , letter to his wife Kate: 1546, eleven days before his death.
Pray, and let God worry. -Martin Luther [b. 11/10/1483], in the last letter written to his wife Katy, before his death on 2/18/1546]
Unless I am convicted by scripture and plain reason — I do not accept the authority of the popes and councils, for they have contradicted each other — my conscience is captive to the Word of God. I cannot and I will not recant anything for to go against conscience is neither right nor safe. God help me. Amen .
Martin Luther, at the Imperial Diet at Worms, 18 April 1521.
Some one sent to know whether it was permissible to use warm water in baptism? The Doctor replied: “Tell the blockhead that water, warm or cold, is water. Martin Luther (1483-1546), Table Talk CCCLIV[1569].
There is not a word in the Bible which is extra cruem, which can be understood without reference to the cross.
The Bible is the cradle wherein Christ is laid. Martin Luther
Either sin is with you, lying on your shoulders, or it is lying on Christ, the Lamb of God. Now if it is lying on your back, you are lost; but if it is resting on Christ, you are free, and you will be saved. Now choose what you want. –Martin Luther
Anything that one imagines of God apart from Christ is only useless thinking and vain idolatry. –Martin Luther
It is the duty of every Christian to be Christ to his neighbor. MARTIN LUTHER
Let him who wants a true church cling to the Word by which everything is upheld. –Martin Luther
Next to faith this is the highest art — to be content with the calling in which God has placed you. I have not learned it yet. — Martin Luther
Our Lord has written the promise of the resurrection not in words alone, but in every leaf in springtime. –Martin Luther
I am afraid that the schools will prove the very gates of hell, unless they diligently labor in explaining the Holy Scriptures, and engraving them on the hearts of youth. I would advise no one to send his child where the Holy Scriptures are not supreme. Every institution in which men and women are not unceasingly occupied with the Word of God must be corrupt.–Martin Luther
Grace is given to heal the spiritually sick, not to decorate spiritual heroes. Martin Luther
If any man ascribes anything of salvation, even the very least thing, to the free will of man, he knows nothing of grace, and he has not learned Jesus Christ rightly. Martin Luther
Do not suppose that abuses are eliminated by destroying the object which is abused. Men can go wrong with wine and women. Shall we prohibit and abolish women? The sun, moon, and stars have been worshipped. Shall we pluck them out of the sky. Luther
Lord Jesus, you are my righteousness, I am your sin. You have taken upon yourself what is mine and given me what is yours. You have become what you were not so that I might become what I was not. MARTIN LUTHER
There is no more lovely, friendly and charming relationship, communion or company than a good marriage. — Martin Luther
The state of matrimony is the chief in the world after religion; but people shun it because of its inconveniences, like one who, running out of the rain, falls into the river. Martin Luther, Table Talk
A marriage without children is the world without the sun. Augustine quoted in Martin Luther, Table Talk
Music makes people kinder, gentler, more staid and reasonable. The devil flees before the sound of music almost as much as before the word of God.
Martin Luther
Next to the Word of God, the noble art of music is the greatest treasure in the world. MARTIN LUTHER
It is the most ungodly and dangerous business to abandon the certain and revealed will of God in order to search in to the hidden mysteries of God. — Martin Luther
Rest in the Lord; wait patiently for Him. In Hebrew, “Be silent in God, and let Him mold thee.” Keep still, and He will mold thee to the right shape. -Martin Luther (1483-1546)
Whenever I happen to be prevented by the press of duties from observing my hour of prayer, the entire day is bad for me. MARTIN LUTHER
All who call on God in true faith, earnestly from the heart, will certainly be heard, and will receive what they have asked and desired, although not in the hour or in the measure, or the very thing which they ask; yet they will obtain something greater and more glorious than they had dared to ask. Martin Luther (1483-1546)
Grant that I may not pray alone with the mouth; help me that I may pray from the depths of my heart. Martin Luther
Dr. Henning asked: “Is reason to hold no authority at all with Christians, since it is to be set aside in matters of faith?” The Doctor replied: Before faith and the knowledge of God, reason is mere darkness; but in the hands of those who believe, ’tis an excellent instrument. All facilities and gifts are pernicious, exercised by the impious; but most salutary when possessed by godly persons.” Martin Luther (1483-1546), Table Talk, LXXVI. [1569]
Reason is the greatest enemy that faith has; it never comes to the aid of spiritual things, but–more frequently than not–struggles against the divine Word, treating with contempt all that emanates from God. Martin Luther (1483-1546), Table Talk [1569]
I more fear what is within me than what comes from without. –MARTIN LUTHER
The best way to drive out the devil, if he will not yield to texts of Scripture, is to jeer and flout him, for he cannot bear scorn. Martin Luther
In the worst temptations nothing can help us but faith that God’s Son has put on flesh, is bone, sits at the right hand of the Father, and prays for us. There is no mightier comfort.–Martin Luther
In this sort of temptation and struggle, contempt is the best and easiest method of winning over the devil. Laugh your adversary to scorn and ask who it is with whom you are talking. But by all means flee solitude, for the devil watches and lies in wait for you most of all when you are alone. This devil is conquered by mocking and despising him, not by resisting and arguing with him.
If I profess with the loudest voice and clearest exposition every portion of the truth of God except precisely that little point which the world and the devil are at that moment attacking, I am not confessing Christ, however boldly I may be professing Christ. Where the battle rages, there the loyalty of the soldier is proved; and to be steady on all the battlefield besides, is mere flight and disgrace if he flinches at that point. –Martin Luther (1483-1546)
Peace if possible, truth at all costs. Martin Luther
If you are not allowed to laugh in heaven, I don’t want to go there. –Martin Luther (1483-1546)
-Pastor K.J. Anderson
FY25 October Financial Summary
FY25 October Financial Summary
Council Update
Inreach
- The numbers are low in Sunday School
- There is still a need for 2 teachers. One for preK/K and one for 3-4 grade.
Spiritual Oversight
- Pastor’s 2025 housing allowance was approved.
School Board
- We are down one preschooler. Others are being added.
- The school board updated us on the summer program.
Outreach
- Will promote the church at the bazaar
- David & Julie Wright’s addition to the outreach board was approved by council.
- Synod representative Brad Kerkow will visit us in November.
- A preschool family event may be planned with preschool parents (open gym of some sort).
- Name collection should be done during future events as done in the past.
Properties
- The fall clean up on Oct 6 went well.
Treasurer
- A Stewardship program is recommended by Pastor. He will share more about what that may look like.
- September numbers will be published in the bulletin.
- The website now works with credit cards for special funds.
Chairman
- Jodi and Dave are having weekly status meetings. re: ongoing items (calendars, website etc) in order to accomplish initiatives.
TLC/Office
- The group is working on guidelines for funerals.
- The 2025 offering envelopes have arrived.
TLC – The Ladies’ Connection
The Ladies’ Connection will meet on Saturday, November 9th at 10:30 a.m.
49th Annual Bazaar and Bistro – SAVE THE DATE!
Saturday, November 23rd from 10am to 1pm. Please look for sign-up sheets and volunteer to bake, craft, organize, set-up, set up, serve, and clean-up. A Bazaar week timeline will be emailed shortly. Cookies, Crafts, Vintage Treasures, Soup, Lefsa, you know the drill! Bring your family and friends and support our 49-year tradition.
To all Heritage members: There are less than 30 days until our 49th annual Bazaar on
November 23th. We would love to have, and actually need, to have participation from more than
just our core TLC members. Men, you are welcome to volunteer also. Do you have a hobby,
like woodworking? Consider donating some of your projects for sale. Vintage items may be
brought to church and put on the table in the coat room. Please look for ways you can be of assistance.
Sign up sheets are on the volunteer board in the narthex. There are opportunities to set up, clean up, bake,
make soup, prepare lefse , donate crafts or “vintage” items, or donate your time on the day of
the bazaar. If you have questions about this event or ways you can serve, get in touch with
Julie Damico, Rhonda Eisenbeis or any TLC member! Thanks!
Flowers for Christmas
It is time to order flowers for Christmas! The order form from Shirley Schwanz is posted below, so you can review it before you order. The paper copies for orders will be on the Welcome Center on Sunday, November 3rd. They need to be filled out and returned by next Sunday, November 10. Thanks!
Thanksgiving Worship & Pie Social
The Outreach Board is planning a Pie Social following the Thanksgiving service on November 27th. All are welcome to stay after the service and enjoy some pie and fellowship.
Advent Worship Schedule
o Wednesday Advent services: 6:30 pm – December 4th, 11th and 18th. Supper served on the 4th, 11th & 18th at 5:15 p.m.
o Sunday 12-1 The First Sunday in Advent. Worship services with Communion at 8:00 & 10:30 a.m.
o Sunday 12-8 The Second Sunday in Advent. Worship services at 8:00 & 10:30 a.m.
o Sunday 12-15 The Third Sunday in Advent. Worship services with Communion at 8:00 & 10:30 a.m.
o Sunday 12-22 The Fourth Sunday in Advent Worship service at 8:00 a.m. The 10:30 a.m. service will be the Choir & Sunday School combined service.
o Tuesday 12-24 The Christmas Eve Candlelight song service will be at 6:30 pm.
o Wednesday 12-25 Christmas day service will be at 10:00 am with Communion.
o Sunday 12-29 The First Sunday in Christmas. Worship services with Communion at 8:00 & 10:30 a.m.
o Tuesday 12-31 New Years Eve service at 6:30 p.m. with Communion.
o Wednesday 01-01 -2024 New Years Day; There will be NO service as is our custom.
Adult Bible Study Opportunities
Women’s Bible Study.
Men’s Bible Study
The Men’s Thursday Morning Bible Class meets at 9:00 a.m.
Heritage Choir
Choir rehearsal is on Wednesdays starting at 7 pm. New members are always welcome! Please contact Julie Wright or Klaudia Calhoun with any questions.
Volunteer Opportunities Around the Church
Once again the Property Board is requesting Heritage members to volunteer to clean the Narthex, Sanctuary and gym on a weekly basis. Please consider helping to keep our church looking nice by signing up on the volunteer board. The Sanctuary takes about 1 1/4 hours, the Narthex 1 1/4 hours, and the gym 20 minutes. Questions: contact Ruth B. for details and instructions.
Members Helping Members
Properties Board
Thank you to everyone who helped with the building and grounds clean up on Oct. 5th. Many items were completed, however there are still a number of things left to do to get the building and grounds ready for winter. If you are willing to take on one of these, please contact Ruth B.
Outdoor:
+Clean out gutters
+Courtyard – clean out drain
+Clean and move teak bench to south entry
+Drain, roll up and store hoses in storage shed
+Turn off exterior faucets
+Wash Windows (& doors)-
Fellowship hall kitchen – exterior only
Gym -inside & out
Narthex inside & out
K-2 room – exterior only
Library – exterior only
Office area & South entry – inside and out
Hallway to South Entry (across from Pastor’s office)
Working Sacristy – both
Interior:
* Sanctuary –
Vacuum chairs and check for spider webs
Clean video enclosure
* Painting: See Ruth if you would be interested
in doing some painting
Christian Life Ministries Meeting
The annual CLM meeting is coming up on Sunday, November 17th at 1 pm. Refreshments will be served. The meeting will be at the New Day Pregnancy Center – 2756 Lake Shore Ave. in Little Canada.
Seminary Christmas Gifts
Again this year, we, as a congregation, will be bringing gifts to the seminary students and their families. There is a poster with post-its hanging in the narthex. Gift cards are available for purchase through Katie Henricks (Raise Right/Scrip) and can be put in the office or mailbox #9. If you have any questions, please talk to Rhonda Eisenbeis. Gifts are due December 4.
Companions in Prayer
My Prayer Story
November – when you hear that month said, what thoughts come to mind? Shorter days, falling leaves? Draining hoses and putting away the patio furniture? Getting out the boots and winter coats? All of these are true, but the crowning glory of November is of course Thanksgiving. Turkey, pumpkin pie, cranberries, family and friends. Thanksgiving is of course meant as a time to give thanks for all of the blessings that God has bestowed on us. We often think first of the earthly blessings – health, home, family, friends, etc. We recognize that sometimes we are more thankful for these things than at other times. Relationships have ups and downs. Financial stability can vary with the economy. But we have an even greater gift to thank God for, one that is constant. God’s love for us when He sent His son to die on the cross for our sins so that we may live with Him in heaven. Psalm 100:4 Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, and bless His name.” So this Thanksgiving let us join the apostle Paul and say “Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!” – 2 Corinthians 9:15.
Congregation Prayer Suggestions:
Intercessory prayer – prayers on the behalf of others – is a part of a Christian’s life. If you have a request for Companions in Prayer at Heritage to pray for you or someone you know, please contact Alice Schmidt, Pastor Anderson or the office.
Each of you have a list of those you pray for, but consider adding these to it.
- Ask God to bless and keep the older generation in our congregation who are facing life changes of health, memory, mobility and living arrangements.
- As our country goes to the polls this week and the results become known, pray that there is an orderly and safe transition. Pray that God guides our leaders to make wise decisions going forward.
Serving in November
November Greeters
11/3 – Henkemeyer
11/10 – Nikoley
11/17 – L Sickmann
11/24 – Ponath
Greeter Guidelines
To provide a consistent, friendly, and sincere greeting every Sunday to all members and visitors to Heritage Lutheran Church, guidelines have been developed to help accomplish that goal. Following are some of those guidelines:
- Please mark your calendar for the date you are assigned. The date assigned will be published in the Heritage Newsletter for a two-month period.
- Please be ready to greet no less than 20 minutes before each service for which you have been assigned.
- As you greet visitors, please encourage them to sign our guest book. If there are two people greeting, one of you could escort them to the guest book while the other continues to greet. Ideally you should try to introduce them to another member standing nearby. Sometimes this is difficult to do as the service is starting. In that case, try to chat with them after the service and introduce them to other members after the service.
- Stay at the door until the service is underway; visitors quite often show up late and really need extra help in getting bulletins and a place to sit. Feel free to involve the ushers as needed.
- If you have a chance, get their contact information from the guest book or by asking them for it, and then follow up with a thank you text, email, or note sent to them thanking them for visiting our church. If you inform the church office, they could help with this task.
- If you are unable to greet at both services, please ask someone to fill in for you. If you find out at the last minute, text the following who are willing to help – Remus 651-800-5827, Braun 612-237-1064, Fahning 952-200-2870, Eisenbeis 651-230-4423, Barb Oachs 952-465-5272
- If you have a conflict with the date you were assigned, please contact someone from your month or the next month and trade with them. This helps those doing the scheduling with juggling all the rescheduling. Thank You!
November Ushers & Acolytes
11/3 – 8:00 – Micah Steward, Dave Paulsen/Jaycen Steward
10:30 – Josh Mears, Phil Holz/Josiah Mears
11/10– 8:00 – Bruce Reedstrom, Craig Remus/Ushers
10:30 – Jesse Chapman, Fischer Chapman/Ushers
11/17 – 8:00 – Howard Sickmann, Larry Sickmann/Jaycen Steward
10:30 – Steve & Elijah Cook/Josiah Mears
11/24 – 8:00 – Jef Sutton, Chris Nikoley/Ushers
10:30 – Dan Schwanz, Luther Krueger/Ushers
11/27 – Thanksgiving Eve – 6:30 p.m. – Kevin & Nicholas Henricks
November Recording
11/3 – Stan Miller
11/10 – Libby Paulsen
11/17 – Martin Paulsen
11/24- Stan Miller
November Altar Guild
Hannah Anderson/Shirley Schwanz
November Fellowship
11/3 – Natvig
11/10 – Open
11/17 – Kooy
11/24 – Open
November Birthdays
1 Hayden Sickmann
2 Summer Steward
2 Bruce Reedstrom
3 Nathaniel Reedstrom
3 Karen Sargent
5 Emily Olp
7 Brandon Spaulding
8 Holly Natvig
9 Sarah Smith
9 Micah Steward
14 Dave Paulsen
18 Ruth Smith
22 Rebecca Cook
23 Elliott Blaha
24Tanner Holz
24 Cooper Sickmann
24 Andy Henkemeyer
26 Ruth Braun
26 Jennifer Sutton
28 Luther Krueger
29 Hannah Anderson