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MOUNT OLIVET
MESSENGER
MAR 2019
Believing, Belonging, Becoming
LookUp
LENT AT MOUNT OLIVET
VOLUME 7, ISSUE 3
mtolivet.org
Join Us for Worship
MINNEAPOLIS CAMPUS WEST CAMPUS
WOR S HIP S CHED U LE
5025 KNOX AVE S 7150 ROLLING ACRES RD, P.O. BOX 153
MINNEAPOLIS, MN 55419 VICTORIA, MN 55386
612.926.7651 952.767.1500
SUN, MAR 3 SUN, MAR 10 9, 10, 11am
Transfiguration & The Good Samaritan Sermon: PASTOR HAMMERSTEN
6th-Grade First Communion Holy Communion 8:30am and following the Music: Diane Loudon, cello
Holy Communion 8:30am and following the last last service; Nursery 9, 10, 11am Sunday School: 9, 10, 11am
service; Nursery 9, 10, 11am; The 6th-Grade 9, 10, 11am, 12noon WED, MAR 27
First Communion service will be held during Sermon: PASTOR KALLAND
Lent Midweek 11am
12noon and 11am services. Music: Chancel Treble, Chancel Tenore,
Sermon: PASTOR HAMMERSTEN
9, 10, 11am, 12noon Chapel & Hosanna Choirs
Sermon: PASTOR LOSE Sunday School: 9, 10, 11am SUN, MAR 31
Music: Senior & Cathedral Choirs Choir Sunday School: 9, 10am The Persistent Widow
Sunday School: 9, 10, 11am 9, 10, 11am Holy Communion 8:30am and following the
Choir Sunday School: 9, 10am Sermon: PASTOR RUUD last service; Nursery 9, 10, 11am
9, 10, 11am Music: Chancel Treble, Chancel Tenore, 9, 10, 11am, 12noon
Sermon: PASTOR DIXON Chapel Choirs Sermon: PASTOR HELGEN
Music: Senior & Cathedral Choirs Sunday School: 9, 10, 11am Music: Senior & Cathedral Choirs;
Sunday School: 9, 10, 11am Chancel Ringers
Sunday School: 9, 10, 11am
DAYLIGHT SAVING
TIME ENDS ON
Choir Sunday School: 9, 10am
MAR 10 9, 10, 11am
Sermon: PASTOR DIXON
WED, MAR 13 Music: Senior & Cathedral Choirs;
Lent Midweek 11am Chancel Ringers
Sermon: PASTOR HELGEN Sunday School: 9, 10, 11am
SUN, MAR 17
A Healing, a Parable, and a Lament
Holy Communion 8:30am and following the
TRUTH TALKS
last service; Nursery 9, 10, 11am
9, 10, 11am, 12noon
Sermon: PASTOR LOSE
LookUp!
Wed 7pm, Mar 13, Mar 20
Music: Senior Choir Men; Cathedral Choir “LIVING ONLINE ~
WED, MAR 6
MOU NT O LI VET MES S ENGER MA R 2019 MTO LI VET.O RG
Sunday School: 9, 10, 11am LIVING LOVED”
Ash Wednesday Communion Services Choir Sunday School: 9, 10am PASTORS DIXON AND RUUD
Jesus Turns to Jerusalem 9, 10, 11am
7am, 11am, 4pm, 6pm Sermon: PASTOR MACLEAN Wed 7pm, Mar 27, Apr 3
Sermon: PASTOR MACLEAN Music: Senior & Cathedral Choirs “THE VIRTUAL
Music: 7, 11am: Amanda Jenkins, soprano; Sunday School: 9, 10, 11am BODY OF CHRIST”
4, 6pm: Justin Staebell, baritone PASTOR LOSE AND PROFESSOR
WED, MAR 20 DEANNA A. THOMPSON
6pm
Sermon: PASTOR HAMMERSTEN Lent Midweek 11am & 7pm
Music: Greg Dokken, bass Sermon: PASTOR KALLAND
SUN, MAR 24
WED, MAR 6
Ash Wednesday The Prodigal Son Follow Jesus’ Passion
Holy Communion 8:30am and following the
Youth-Led Services 7:30pm with daily readings
last service; Nursery 9, 10, 11am that remind us
Sermon: PASTOR DIXON
9, 10, 11am, 12noon to look to the
Music: Cathedral Choir
Sermon: PASTOR LOSE cross and see
Sermon: PASTOR RUUD
Music: Senior Choir Women; Cathedral God’s incredible love
Music: Cathedral Choir
Choir; Joyful Noise! for us laid bare. Sign up for emails at
Sunday School: 9, 10, 11am mtolivet.org or pick up a booklet at church.
Choir Sunday School: 9, 10am
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2
Look Up to See the
LET T ER FROM T HE S EN IOR PA ST O R
Country of God
Every once in a while, you get a glimpse into another imagine
country, the country of God. Oh, I know, sometimes and enter
it’s called a “kingdom” – as in “the kingdom of God has this other
drawn near.” But I sometimes fear that word seems so country.
archaic that it’s hard for most of us to imagine. But perhaps nowhere
What I’m thinking of really is another country, is this invitation made more clearly than
another land, one that feels, smells, even tastes different. in the parable of the Prodigal Son. It’s the story of a
You know right when you’ve stumbled into it, even if you foolish son who has no idea just how blessed he is and
didn’t notice the boundary lines. What makes this country so squanders all he has. But it’s also the story of an even
different is that nobody counts things here. Do you know more foolish father, one who refuses to count mistakes
what I mean? No tracking billable hours, no counting and misdeeds and welcomes even this ungrateful and
the days until school lets out, no ringing up debits on the foolish child back with open arms.
balance sheet, no cries from the backseat of “are we there Through these stories, Jesus invites us into a world of
yet?” Best yet, no counting old grievances and grudges, unmerited grace. I should warn you, though, that those
no dredging up past wrongs or unsettled scores. For some of us who by nature or experience are “counters” will
reason, people in this country have lost track of all that; have a hard time understanding it, perhaps even believing
in fact, they can’t remember why you’d keep count in the it. But to those of us who have been down and out, to
first place. those who have been lost, to those who have counted
Oh, I know: the world – the real world – doesn’t until exhaustion and still not been satisfied. ... Well, even
work that way. We need to keep count. If we don’t, we’ll if we’re not sure this world Jesus describes is “the real
lose track of what we owe each other. How will we know world,” we soon come to the conclusion it’s the one that
the value of anything if we don’t weigh it, measure it, really matters, the one, in the end, that just might save us.
assess and evaluate it? But here, in this other country, a At Mount Olivet this Lent, we continue to extend
thing just has value. It matters, in and of itself. It just Jesus’ invitation to imagine and enter this other country.
does. Although the invitation comes in many and various
Most of us have been convinced that we need to track ways, it can be summarized most succinctly in just two
and count and measure and remember. That’s just the way words: “Look Up!” Look up from your work to see the
M TO LI VET.O RG M AR 2 019 MO UN T O LI VET M ESS ENGE R
things work. But not relationships. Think about it. You beauty of God’s world. Look up from your devices to
start counting the right and wrong, the good and the bad, see the actual people all around you. Look up from the
the things that should be rewarded or punished and you’ll headlines of national and global division to see God’s call
never get over it. Before long, you’ll be so unhappy you’ll to care for those around you. Look up this Lent from all
actually have convinced yourself that if you could just that distracts you to focus steadfastly on Jesus’ journey
count more, know more – maybe get another bite from to the cross. Look up, finally, to see God looking at you
the fruit of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil – the way a love-struck parent gazes at a beloved child. In
then you’ll finally be happy. our Sunday worship, through our Lenten devotions, in
But that’s not the way it works in this other world. our midweek worship and Truth Talks, we will repeat this
In this world – God’s world, kingdom and country – you invitation again and again until you, too, have not only
forget counting like my son always forgot to track his laps been invited to imagine, but have
when swimming. Me, I’m not a swimmer. When I’m in actually been pulled into, the very
the pool it’s to get exercise – nothing more, nothing less country and kingdom of God.
– and I make good and sure I count every length. But my Look up!
son just swims. “How many laps did you swim today,” I’d
ask after he’d been in the pool an hour or more.
“No idea,” he’d smile back, as content as he was weary.
Throughout Luke’s Gospel, Jesus invites people to DAVID J. LOSE, SENIOR PASTOR
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Life & Growth
LookUp this Lent!
MOU N T OLIVET LIFE
JAN 15 - FEB 14
Baptisms
Charles Edward Baker,
son of Donna and William SUNDAYS IN LENT for the sake of community. We need each other
Rayna Kay Holten, Mar 10 - Apr 14. Worship centered on the Gospel of in order to carry out God’s hopes and dreams for
Luke as we continue to Enter the Story ... the world. When has someone in your community
daughter of Rebecca and Brent
9, 10, 11am, 12noon; 9, 10, 11am invited you to look up?
Rory Pattee and Bernadette Kelly Holten,
• Look Up … to Strangers
children of Melissa and Ryan TRUTH TALKS: LOOK UP!
in our Community
Nathaniel Bo Jenkins, Jr., These 40-minute Truth Talks are open to all.
Wed, Mar 20, 11am, 7pm, PASTOR KALLAND.
son of Stacey and Nathaniel Confirmation and Cathedral and Chancel Choir
Abraham Welcomes Strangers (Genesis 18:1-8).
Luella Jean Pieper, members will be in attendance, and we encourage all
Abraham and Sarah provide hospitality to three
daughter of Emily and Zachary our households and interested adults to attend, as we
strangers. How do we welcome strangers in our own
Grayson Thomas Schwein, believe sharing this experience and learning together
lives and anticipate the needs of neighbors in our
is important and builds community.
son of Kayla and Matt community?
• “Living Online ~ Living • Look Up … to Be Present
Winston Jerome Sykora,
Loved” Wed, Mar 13; Wed, Mar 20
son of Nicole and Ken Wed, Mar 27, 11am, PASTOR HAMMERSTEN. Martha
with PASTORS DIXON AND RUUD.
and Mary (Luke 10:38-42). This story reminds us
Weddings Living online allows us to extend ourselves in ways
that sometimes God calls us to be present with those
Joan Nilsen & Tim Beyer, Nov 9 never imagined even a generation ago. Whether
in our midst. How can we be more fully present with
it’s staying in touch with friends, finding inspiration,
Deaths those we encounter?
or reaching out to someone in need, we discover
• Look Up … to Friends
Richard J. Ames, 1929 - 2019 in the internet a powerful tool that vastly expands
and Family Wed, Apr 3, 11am
Adrian A. Anderson, 1939 - 2019 our reach into the world. At the same time, living
Wednesday Worship with Holy Communion, 7pm,
Walter E. Beisel, 1926 - 2019 online immerses us in countless messages about
PASTOR MACLEAN. Jesus Heals a Paralytic (Luke 5:17-
Warren A. Dahl, 1926 - 2019 who we are. Some of those messages are life-giving,
26). The paralytic man’s friends bring him to Jesus
Phyllis R. Frisk, 1922 - 2019 but many others are not. How, then, do we make
for healing. When have your friends and family
Edith M. Grissinger, 1921 - 2019 the most of the opportunities the digital age offers
helped you to see God? How does their faith to see
Ralph K. James, 1933 - 2019 while remembering – and extending – God’s central
a way forward encourage you in your own faith?
promise that we are children of God, we are loved,
Duane A. Paskett, 1937 - 2019 • Look Up … to Be Surprised!
and we are not alone.
Larry H. Voltin, 1950 - 2019 Wed, Aor 10, 11am, 7pm, PASTOR
• “The Virtual Body of Christ” KALLAND. The Parable of the Great Dinner (Luke
Wed, Mar 27; Wed, Apr 3
14:15-24). God shows up in the uninvited dinner
Easter Flowers with PASTOR LOSE AND PROFESSOR DEANNA
A. THOMPSON. We are called to be
guests – the poor, the crippled, the blind, and the
Order through lame. God sees what we think isn’t possible and says,
the body of Christ, living out
3/31 “There is still room!” How has God surprised you?
God’s love for us by loving our
During this neighbors, not just in person, but LENTEN DEVOTIONS
MO UNT OL I VET MES SENG ER MAR 2019 MTO LI VET.OR G
special time also online. Living loved in the Follow Jesus’ Passion with daily readings that remind
of year, please digital age gives us new tools us to look to the cross and see God’s incredible love
consider for sharing God’s compassion for us laid bare. Sign up for emails at mtolivet.org or
honoring or and grace to those who have bought into a story pick up a booklet at church.
remembering about themselves that is less than what God desires
HOLY WEEK AND EASTER
a loved one by purchasing for them. Sharing the gospel of God’s love online,
• Palm Sunday Apr 14
extending God’s compassion digitally, and caring for
a spring plant to beautify our 9, 10, 11am, 12noon; 9, 10, 11am
each other via social media are all examples of how
sanctuaries for Easter Sunday. • The Seven Last Words of
we can live into being “the Virtual Body of Christ.”
A list of donors and those Christ by Dubois Wed, Apr 17, 7pm
remembered or honored will be LENT MIDWEEK SERVICES • The Living Lord’s Supper
included in the Easter Sunday Our Lent Midweek worship services will revolve Thu, Apr 18; 6, 7:30pm; 7:30pm
bulletin. $15 small plants, $25 around biblical stories of what happens when we • Good Friday Apr 19; Communion
Look Up – we see God at work in our lives, we see Services 7am, 12noon, 4, 6pm, 6pm;
large plants. Order at mtolivet.
people with needs we can meet, we discover people Children’s Services 11am; Tenebrae Service
org, complete an Easter Flower with gifts to share, and we are surprised at what God 7pm
envelope at church, or contact is doing right in front of us! • Easter Sunday Apr 21; 7, 8, 9, 10,
Mary Lindberg 612.926.7651 • Look Up … Why? 11am, 12noon; 8, 9, 10, 11am, 12noon
mlindberg@mtolivet.org. Wed, Mar 13, 11am, PASTOR HELGEN.
Created in and for Community (Genesis 1:26-31).
We are made in God’s image, created in community
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Daily Readings
MOU N T OLIVET LIFE
DE VO T IO N S
MAR 2019
FROM PASTOR KALLAND
“You did not choose me, but I chose you. And I appointed
you to go and bear fruit, fruit that will last.” 1 Romans 12.2,
JESUS’ WORDS TO HIS DISCIPLES IN JOHN 15:16 Renewing of Your Mind
The season of Lent is a season of humility and 2 1 John 2.15 & 17,
confession. In fact, the confession in which we partake on Ash Do Not Love the World
Wednesday could be well described as the confession of all confessions for the 3 Psalm 95.6, Kneel
church year. In that spirit … I have a confession. In my 37+ years of life, 4 Philippians 2.10-11, Confess
I have never given up anything for the season of Lent. Now, I hope you won’t 5 Psalm 24. 7 & 8,
judge me for this, and I’m not saying that it can’t be a good practice of faith. Lift Up Your Heads
I have a friend who one year wore a necklace with a cross made of sharp 6 Psalm 103.10-12, Great Mercy
nails. His shared with me that each time he felt the cross on his skin during 7 Habakkuk 2.20, Keep Silence
the season, he intended to be mindful of Jesus’ gift of life and he would say 8 Psalm 19.1, The Heavens Declare
a brief prayer of gratitude. What a wonderful discipline! The reason I haven’t 9 Psalm19.14, My Redeemer
been compelled to “give something up” is that I mainly have witnessed the 10 Psalm 122.1, Glad
season of Lent as a time when we primarily and powerfully focus upon how 11 Psalm 100.1-3, A Joyful Noise
God gave up much for us or, to say it another way, how God shows up to love 12 Psalm 8.3-5, Consider the Heavens
us despite all our sin, doubt, grief, and hardship. Traditionally, the stories
13 Psalm 24.1, The Earth is the Lord’s
the church tells in the Lenten season are all about a God who crosses (yes,
14 Psalm 67.1, Face Shines On Us
CROSS-es) boundaries and breaks through our common conception of life
and experience of the world to show us just how much God loves us and how 15 Colossians 1.16,
much God seeks for us to see ourselves as beloved people and partners with Visible and Invisible
God in this world and our life. 16 John 1.12, Children of God
If giving something up for Lent helps you focus on that, thanks be to 17 John 15.5, Vine and Branches
God! But perhaps, no matter what you do this season, you might direct your 18 Mathew 6.19-21,
faithful life to remembering how much God loves this turmoil-filled world Where is Your Heart
and us as God’s creatures. And then, this may compel us all to question how 19 Revelation 21.4,
we might love each other deeper, following in Christ and how Jesus loves God Wipes Away Tears
all God’s people. Blessings to you all these 40 days (and the six Sundays in 20 Galatians 2.20, Christ Lives In Me
which we celebrate God’s great love!). God’s care and concern for you knows 21 Psalm 119.11, Treasure Your Word
no bounds. That’s what the season is about. Hear it, cling to it, cherish it, 22 James 1.17, Every Good Gift
and live it. It was not us who chose God, but God who chose us! Amen and 23 John 11.25-26, Do You Believe This
Amen. – PASTOR RUUD 24 Isaiah 40.31, Renewed
25 Psalm 42.11, O My Soul
New Member
M TO LI VET.O RG M AR 2 019 MO UN T O LI VET M ESS ENGE R
26 Matthew 11.28, Rest
Orientations 27 1 Peter 5.7, Cares For You
Sa 3/16 9:30-11am 28 Isaiah 26.3-4, Trust
Fellowship Hall 29 Proverbs 3.5-6, Acknowledge
Su 4/7 2-3:30pm 30 Galatians 5.22-23, By Contrast
Gronseth Fellowship Hall 31 1 John 1.9, Forgive and Cleanse
Su 4/14 12:45-2pm
Fellowship Hall
People interested in joining Mount Sign up for weekly emails at
Olivet on Sunday 5/5 are invited to MTOLIVET.ORG
attend one orientation. You will meet
the pastors, staff, members of the Like us on FACEBOOK
Annual Congregation at mountolivetchurch
Board of Life & Growth, connect Meeting Su 3/17 1pm, Main
with other new members, and find Sanctuary. Hear reports, approve Follow us on TWITTER
out what it means to be a member the 2019 annual budget, and @mtolivet
of this amazing congregation!
elect new Congregation Council Follow us on INSTAGRAM
Childcare is available. Register at
mtolivet.org or contact Carol Nault and Board of Life & Growth @mtolivet
612.926.2204 for more information. members. All are welcome!
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FELLOWSHIP
A Day Lenten Journey:
What is Lent for
Lutherans?
Tu 3/12, 10am-3pm, Mount Olivet
Conference & Retreat Center.
The innovations and disruptions
Friends Forever Martin Luther brought to the
46th Fashion Show
Arizona Round-Up medieval church included changes to
& Luncheon
(50yrs+) Su 3/3; 8:30am Sunday Sa 4/6 11am, Fellowship
Lenten season practices. How close are
worship at Living Water Lutheran Hall. This year’s theme is
we – or aren’t we – to those practices
Church, brunch at Pinnacle Peak “Favorite Finds for You” and the show
today? And what difference does it
Country Club, and dinner at will feature a fun mix of boutiques
make? Join PASTOR DIXON and guest
Arrivederci Ristorante; Scottsdale, AZ. and stores for all ages and lifestyles.
presenter DR. THOMAS LECAQUE of
Join PASTOR MACLEAN and Friends The event also will include a raffle to
Grand View University as we explore
Forever for a special Mount Olivet benefit Africa Jam international
these questions and more. Enjoy
Sunday in Scottsdale. You are ministry. Fashion show cost is $20pp.
the beauty of a winter day, warm
most welcome and encouraged to Purchase 8 seats to reserve a table. All
fellowship, inspiring conversation,
participate in any or all of these other seating will be first come, first
and a wonderful, delicious lunch! $20
events. Registration needed if served. Register 2/1-3/28.
for lunch and program. Bus available
attending either or both meals. for $5 from (8:45am), 7500
Register by 3/1. $20 for brunch,
York (8:45am), and (9:15am).
menu items for dinner.
Register by 3/12: mtolivetretreat.org
952.469.2175 msiems@mocrc.org.
MO UNT OL I VET MES SENG ER MAR 2019 MTO LI VET.OR G
Joy Circle Presents:
An Evening with
Author James Tucker
MOCW Annual W 4/10, Doors Open 6:30pm, Speaker
Ladies’ Night Young Adults 7-8pm, 1700 Chapel. All are invited
M 3/4 6:30pm, Fellowship Donate & Do to attend a presentation by local
Hall. Speaker: MICHELE VIG, (22-45yrs) Tu 3/26 6-7:30pm, author JAMES TUCKER, the author of
Founder & Chief Organizer of Neat VEAP, 9600 Aldrich Ave S, the acclaimed Buddy Lock Thrillers,
Little Nest and former president of Bloomington. The goal is for each of Next of Kin, and The Holdouts. Tucker
Caribou Coffee. Topic: “Finding us to bring 80(!) rolls of toilet paper is a graduate from the University of
your Passion + Purpose.” Learn how (donated by co-workers, friends, Minnesota Law School and one of
organizing can help you unlock your and family) to this fun event where four fiction writers awarded a position
potential! $15. Register by 2/27. we will tour the facility, hear a at a past Mentor Series at the Loft
CALLING ALL MEN SERVERS! Continue
presentation, and repackage our Literary Center in Minneapolis. He
the tradition of men serving the toilet paper donations. Wear closed- lives near Minneapolis with his wife,
ladies – contact 612.926.7651 toed shoes and clothes that can get painter Megan Rye, and their family.
mocwvolunteer@gmail.com. dirty. Register by 3/26. Free. No registration.
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FELLOWS HIP
Career & Calling Flying Solo: Men’s Breakfasts
Spring Breakfast Victoria Burrow Tu 7am, The Hilltop Edina;
W 4/10 7-9am, Fellowship Hall. (singles 40s-60s) Su 3/31 2:45- Th 7am, Chanhassen Perkins.
Join us for an engaging and 6pm, Victoria Burrow, 7999 Victoria Mar 3/5: BIBLE STUDY: PASTOR
inspiring conversation with Dr, Victoria. Join us in a spirited DIXON. Mar 12/14: LUKE RANDALL.
CHRIS WRIGHT, CEO of Minnesota competition with an afternoon of axe- Mar 19/21: REALM 101. Mar
United FC, as he discusses the throwing. Expert “chuckers” will make 26/28: BIBLE STUDY: PASTOR RUUD.
benefits of knowing your “Why?” sure we’re set up, trained, and having fun
and staying centered on that while keeping everyone safe. Following
purpose. Join us for good food and our 1-hr session we encourage everyone
good conversation about what truly to stay to enjoy food, and fellowship. All
motivates our work in the world! participants must sign a waiver prior to
7AM DOORS OPEN our 3pm start time. $20.
7:15AM PRAYER & BREAKFAST BUFFET
7:30AM PROGRAM BEGINS Flying Solo:
9AM PROGRAM CONCLUDES
Mia Art in Bloom
You have our blessing if you need to (singles 40s-60s) Th 4/11 6:30-
leave early. It’s a work day, after all! 9pm, Minneapolis Institute of Art, 2400 Young in Heart
Free (gently used business clothing Third Ave S, Mpls. View fresh floral Luncheon
donations encouraged). (65yrs+) Tu 3/19 12noon,
creations and the artworks that inspired
them! Meet at the 2nd floor fountain. Fellowship Hall. Featuring:
Following the exhibit, please join us at WILLOW BRAE, A CELTIC
Eat Street Social (18 W. 26th St. Mpls) INSTRUMENTAL DUO. $9 and
for fun and fellowship. No cost for donation to Pastor Scott’s On-
exhibit. Eat Street Social on your own. Call Ministry. Friends welcome!
Register by 3/15: 612.926.7651.
M TOL I VET.OR G MAR 2 019 MOU NT OL I VET MES SENG ER
Oberammergau:
Passion Play 2020
Sa 7/20 to Tu 7/30, Eastern Europe,
Vising Prague, Budapest, Vienna,
Munich and Oberammergau. It
is with great excitement that we Just for Fun Golf
invite you to join us on our 11 Scramble Ski Club
Das Splendors of eastern Europe F 5/10 11am-7pm, Deer Run Gofl Course, W through 3/29 9:30am-9:30pm,
tour with a once in a lifttime 8661 Deer Run Dr, Victoria. Afton Alps, 6600 Peller Ave S,
opportuintiy to attend the world 11am check-in, driving range open, Hastings, MN. Mention “Mount
famous Passion Play in 2020 in sandwich buffet lunch; 12:45pm golfers Olivet” to receive discounts on lift
Oberammergau, Germany! The get into electric carts; 1pm golf begins; tickets and rentals. Look for the
tour will also include stops in following golf there will be a happy “Mount Olivet” table (chalet 2nd
Prague, Budapest, Vienna, and hour, grilled steak / chicken dinner, floor) to get a ribbon to identify
Munich. If this sounds like the and awards presentation. Rain or shine. yourself to fellow ski-clubbers on
trip for you or if you would like Sign up as an individual or as a group the slopes. Meet at 12noon for
more information, contact Pastor (up to 4). $100pp must be paid with lunch at Paul’s Restaurant or join
Hammersten 612.767.2236 or registration. Bring $5 cash to buy a us after school or work!
monicah@mtolivet.org mulligan. Register by 5/1.
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ADULT Of Brokenness and Wednesday /
A D U LT LEA R N IN G
Wholeness: Art of Thursday Word:
LEARN-
the Prodigal Son Lukan Ladies
7-8:30pm, M 3/18 W 4/3-5/1 9:30-10:50am,
ING
Gronseth Fellowship Rm 207; Th 4/4-5/2
Hall, Tu 3/19 10-11:30am, CFL
Rehearsal Hall. Activity Rm. More than
All Mount Olivet members, visitors, The Prodigal Son, other gospel writers, Luke
friends, and family are welcome our sermon text includes women in his
at Adult Learning opportunities. for 3/24, is one of accounts of Jesus’ ministry
Questions: Carol Throntveit, the best-known and the early church. Named
parables. It also has and unnamed, some with
been the subject only a few verses of mention,
of artists through the ages, Luke shows how these
each bringing unique viewpoints mostly “ordinary” women play
to their work as you will learn in extraordinary roles. Join your
this class led by DR. PAUL DANIELS, pastors as they introduce –
archivist for Luther Seminary’s or re-introduce – you to many
extensive Prodigal Son Collection. of these “Lukan Ladies.” Which
ARTWORK: PRODIGAL SON BY SISTER MARION C. HONORS, CSJ; LUTHER SEMINARY FINE ARTS: PRODIGAL SON COLLECTION
As you see and learn how people of pastor teaches each week is a
different times, cultures, and ages surprise! All are welcome – bring
have perceived this story, you will friends. Cost: Donation.
widen your own perspective – and
hear it again on the Mar 24 with A Not-at-All-Boring
Living the Message “new ears”! $10. Luther “Look” at
Introductions Christian Freedom
Tu 3/5 6pm Rehearsal Hall Tuesdays Together: and Good Works
What Does Th 4/25 & 5/2 7-8:30pm
Tu 4/2 6pm Gronseth Fellowship Hall “Lutheran” Mean? Rm 207. DR. MARY JANE HAEMIG
Tu 4/2-4/30 7-8:30pm, Rm easily takes the seemingly boring
Tu 5/7 6pm Rehearsal Hall
207. Didn’t grow up Lutheran? and turns it into WOW! And
Whether or not you participate Been a very l-o-n-g time since that’s exactly what you can expect
in a Living the Message small Confirmation? Wondering what’s as she leads us in this exploration
group, you are welcome to join us unique about being Lutheran or of two of Luther’s most influential
at PASTOR RUUD’S introductions want a refresher to dig-in more? This works. The first, “The Freedom
to each month’s study. In March, 4-week look at “Lutheran basics” led of a Christian,” describes what
we will consider Luke 15:1-31 by PASTOR RUUD is for you! Leave Christian freedom is and why it
MO UNT OL I VET MES SENG ER MAR 2019 MTO LI VET.OR G
with a focus on “And Grace Will with a deeper understanding of means we live our lives in service
Lead Me Home.” This and all what makes Lutheranism unique to our neighbors. The second,
our monthly studies will take us and a greater appreciation for how “Treatise on Good Works,” details
deeper into key texts and themes Lutherans understand God’s love for what good works are and answers
in Luke, the Gospel on which and relationship with us. Here are Luther’s critics who claimed that
our Sunday sermons will be based the basics we will explore together: he denigrated good works. Make
from now through May. Please Session 1 | Faith Alone: There’s nothing for you the time to come – you won’t be
come – you’ll be glad you did. to do ... No, but seriously ... there’s nothing for sorry! $10.
Know, too, that new groups can you to do ... seriously.
form at any time. Contact Carol Session 2 | Simul Justus et Peccator: Come as
Throntveit 612.767.2246 carolt@ you are, leave no better (just forgiven, made Sign up for
mtolivet.org. new, raised up ... daily) EMAIL DELIVERY
Session 3 | Theology of the Cross: The power of of the Messenger at mtolivet.org.
God found in puny, weak, hidden things, and why Click on “Newsletter / Email
= REGISTER AT MTOLIVET.ORG
we’re tempted to want something more. Sign Up” underneath “Quick Links”
OR BY CALLING 612.926.7651
Session 4 | Vocation: What to do, and what God on the bottom center of
= Mpls Campus, = West Campus
SEE PAGE 2 FOR CAMPUS ADDRESSES
does with you, now that there’s nothing to do, the home page.
sometimes whether you like it or not.
|
8
BOOK improved. And at the same time, Putting One Foot In
BOOKS , PA S T OR A L CA R E, ON GO IN G, & SERV ICE
you’ll enjoy not only that physical Front of the Other.
DISCUSSIONS boost, but a spiritual uplifting Losing Him and
• Women’s Book Discussion: from the music and devotions that Finding Me: The
Educated by Tara Westover are worked into the pattern of the Impact of Dementia
W 4/10 - 5/1 11am-12noon class. At West, devotions will center for Families
(except 5/1 at 11:45am-1pm), on Luke, a beautiful fit with our Sa 3/9 8:45-
Rm 208. This highly acclaimed, winter and spring sermon series on 10:30am,
riveting memoir shares the story that Gospel. Men and women are Rm 207.
of how a young woman whose welcome! Children’s
survivalist parents kept her out of • Prayer Ministry M 3/4, 6/3, book author,
school finally breaks away, enters a 9/9 1pm; 12/2 12noon; Lounge. NANCY
classroom for the first time at 17, Pray in the comfort of your CARLSON,
and goes on to earn a PhD from own home, at work, on a walk – will talk about the journey
Cambridge University. Her path anywhere. God is always listening. with her husband’s FTD, a
to education and to new freedom Join us at one of our quarterly horrible type of dementia that
takes her on a journey that spans meetings or call 612.767.2209. left them penniless. Through art,
not just oceans, but the tricky • Prayer Shawl Ministry writing, and hiking, she found a
terrains of family and heart. Along 10am 2nd M in Feb, May, Aug, way to cope with his illness. $15
the way, we learn with her that Nov Lounge; 1pm 3rd Tu (except continental breakfast.
to be “educated” is a matter not Jul & Dec) CFL Rm 310A.
limited to the mind. $15 (includes
book).
Experienced and beginner knitters SERVICE
are welcome to join us as we pray • March MN FoodShare
• Evening Book Discussion and knit prayer shawls for others Food Drive Su 3/10
2nd W 7-8:30pm, in need of comfort, prayer, and Parking
Library. Books: Before We Were support. Contact: Andrea Brown Lots. Items
Yours by Lisa Wingate (3/13), We 612.767.2209. most needed
Were the Lucky Ones by Georgia • Quilting M 6:30-8:30pm Rm are: fruit,
Hunter. (4/10). 197. Are you a quilter or “would- soups, chilis,
• Midday Book Discussion be” quilter? Join our group! We boxed mac and
3rd Tu 11:30am-1pm, Library. make little quilts for Pastor Scott’s cheese, canned
Books: Saving Simon by Jon Katz On-Call Ministry. Instructions tuna, canned chicken, sugar,
(3/19), Being Mortal by Atul and materials provided. Learn new oil, flour. Food and monetary
Gawande. skills, have fun, and serve. Drop donations go to Community
in anytime. Emergency Services and
ONGOING • Spiritual Energy Healing Bountiful Basket .
• Chair Holy Yoga M&W M through 5/20 6-9pm, 1700
M TOL I VET.OR G MAR 2 019 MOU NT OL I VET MES SENG ER
• Easter Angel Gift Baskets
through 5/1 (except holidays) Lower Level. Learn and experience Sa 4/13, 10am
12:15-1:15pm, Gym; Tu how prayer, God’s power, and Gronseth
through 5/28 12noon-1pm, CFL the natural energy paths within Fellowship Hall,
Rm 317. A great physical and the body can bring comfort and 3pm Gym.
spiritual boost to your day that healing. Help pack and
does not require getting down • Learning Swedish deliver “Angel
and up from the floor, yet greatly Language through Hymns Gifts” to those
improves balance, strength, and and Songs M 3/4-5/20 except in need through Pastor
flexibility! Taught by certified 4/15 & 4/22, Old Choir Rm. Scott’s On-Call Ministry and Love
instructors. $5 paid to instructor. Have fun learning a bit of Swedish INC. Come with your family,
through singing Swedish hymns friends, class, or by yourself – all
Think that if it’s “chair yoga” it can’t
and folk songs. Led by PETER are welcome! DONATIONS ALSO
do much good? If so, you are very
JOHNSON, you will sing in unison
mistaken – just ask all the regulars NEEDED: Picture and board books,
(not 4-part harmony) and acapella sidewalk chalk, bubbles, kids’
who wouldn’t think of missing
(without accompaniment). As you activity books, and crayons. Label
a class! Go, give it a try and see
learn the songs, you also will learn “Angel Gifts” and drop off at
for yourself! You will be surprised
something of Swedish phonetics, . Register at mtolivet.org or at
at how in several months, your
vocabulary, and grammar – and the church offices.
flexibility and strength have greatly
have lots of fun!
|
9
Y OU T H MIN IST RY
COP Camping
Weeks
What is Lent Actually About? Grades as of Sep 1, 2019
Non-Members: Add $55
(No Googling Allowed!)
Special Diets: Add $30
Grades 3 & 4
(1) 7/15-7/19 M-F $370*
(2) 8/3-8/7 Sa-W $370*
Grades 5 & 6
With Lent approaching, there seems to be a multitude of ideas regarding (1) 6/27-7/2 Th-Tu $405*
the importance of this preamble to Easter. But do any of them actually hit (2) 7/19-7/24 F-W $405*
the mark? Or do they just make the time period more confusing? What Grades 7 & 8
is Lent actually referring to? In order to find an answer, I decided to turn (1) 6/21-6/27 F-Th $425*
to the people that I’m surrounded by the most ... which as a youth leader, (2) 7/5-7/10 F-W $405*
happens to be kids ages 13-18. So here are some of their answers to the tricky (3) 7/24-7/29 W-M $405*
question,“What is Lent actually about? (no googling allowed)”
Confirmation Camp
• “Ummm I think it starts on Ash Wednesday and ends on Easter. It is the (9th-Gr)
set up to Easter and sometimes people give things up. Lent is to Easter as For Mount Olivet members
Advent is to Christmas” only. An opportunity to
• “Isn’t it like the days before Easter and it’s to represent how Jesus went celebrate the completion of
without like food and water so people give up something and you can’t Confirmation requirements
eat meat on Fridays and stuff?” with Mount Olivet youth
• “I don’t know bro lol” staff and friends.
• “When Jesus sacrificed his life for us and our sins, so the time between (1) 7/10-7/15 W-M $355*
when he died and when he rose we give up something that we can’t live (2) 7/29-8/3 M-Sa $355*
without because he gave up his life”
Hi-League Summer
• “It’s a time where people fast - it’s 40 days and starts on Ash Wednesday
Starter
and ends on Easter. It’s basically just a time to prepare for Easter”
• “A time period lasting 6 weeks where oftentimes individuals give up 6/17-6/21 M-F $280*
something they find important to themselves in order to take a step back Hi-League Retreat
and reflect on their lives and to become closer to God. Did I pass?” 8/7-8/11 W-Su $310*
* Full payment requested at time of
Despite the valiant effort, there appears to be a lack of consensus in what registration.
it represents. But this isn’t unique to just high school kids. A quick glance
to social media during this period illustrates just how muddled this time MEMBER
MO UNT OL I VET MES SENG ER MAR 2019 MTO LI VET.OR G
period truly is. Is it about a change in diet? An attempt to deny ourselves of REGISTRATION
worldly possessions? I went to Pastor Dixon and Pastor Ruud to find some IS OPEN!
guidance in understanding the meaning of Lent. While there isn’t a Lutheran —
“dictionary definition” of what we should do during this time period, there is NON-MEMBER
REGISTRATION
a general concept that we can follow. Lent is a time to reflect on everything OPENS
that God has done for us. For some, we may find that feats of self-denial or SAT, MAR 2
daily challenges help us to focus on God’s sacrifice. For others, volunteering
over this period may help us remember the compassion that God and Jesus COP Camping
show us each and every day. It doesn’t matter how you go about reminding Clothing
yourself of God’s love, but rather that you remind yourself that God has been Visit mtolivet.org to
and always will be there for us. download the order form or
So yes, if fasting during the day or denying yourself that extra dessert order clothing online through
encourages you to think of God’s sacrifice for us, then go ahead and do almostanything.com and
it! It’s not always a bad idea to take stock of the gifts you have been given. selecting COP 2019
But if your minor sacrifice doesn’t encourage you to reflect on the sacrifice Camp Clothing from the
that God makes for us each and every day, then don’t stress about eating categories on the left hand
some chocolate! While the path to reflection may look different for all of side of the screen.
us, remember the true focus of this time period; being thankful for God’s
continued and endless love. – CHASE CLAFLIN
|
10Hi- League Hi-League
YOU T H MIN IS T RY
Creation Worship & (9th-12th Gr) Sunday Evenings.
Meditation 3/3 CREATION SERVICE (
(9th- 12th Gr)(Confirmation
Teachers, Table Talk
7-8:30pm). 3/10 COP CELEBRATION
( 7-8:30pm). 3/17 TABLE TALKS Youth Choirs
Leaders & Mount Olivet ( 7-8:30pm). 3/24 NO HI- Register anytime to join the Cathedral Choir
Staff) 3/3 7-8:30pm Main LEAGUE. 3/31 NO HI-LEAGUE. (9th-12th Gr) and Chancel Choir (7th-8th Gr).
Sanctuary. Please come to Hi- Weekly rehearsals are offered at the below
League on Sunday, March 3 for JHA - Spring Bowling days and times.
a meaningful worship service Extravaganza
MPLS CAMPUS
(7th- 8th Gr) Sa 3/30 11am-
featuring PASTOR HAMMERSTEN’S • Cathedral Choir
Creation meditation. ZACH 3pm ( Youth Center Narthex).
(9th-12th Gr) W 7-8:30pm.
SPIROV & GENEVIEVE KALLAND will
Join your Junior High Youth Staff
• Chancel Choir
provide music. We will also have for a (not at all) competitive day
(7th-8th Gr) W 5:30-6:30pm.
communion at this service. After of bowling! We will stop at Joey
Nova’s for pizza and then head to WEST CAMPUS
the service there will be cookies! • Cathedral Choir
Remember this is the last Sunday Country Club Lanes in Tonka Bay
for bowling! We are so excited for (9th-12th Gr) W 7-8:15pm.
before our COP celebration to • Chancel Choir
get a credit for camp! Questions this event and would love to see you
and your friends there! $30. (7th-8th Gr) W 5:30-6:30pm.
please contact Geoff Arenson
612.767.2212 or geoffa@
Confirmation
mtolivet.org.
TRUTH TALKS
LookUp! Confirmation
begins in 7th grade and concludes with a
Service of Confirmation the September of
Confirmation
7th-Grade Retreats
Mar 8-9, Mount Olivet
Wed 7pm, Mar 13, Mar 20 9th grade. Confirmation students learn about
“LIVING ONLINE ~ Conference & Retreat Center, Buses
the Bible, Lutheranism, faith, and God while
LIVING LOVED” building relationships with their peers, pastors, Leave at 4:40pm on Fridays and
PASTORS DIXON AND RUUD small group leaders, youth ministry leaders, Return at 10:30am on Saturdays
and church. (meet in the youth center or
Wed 7pm, Mar 27, Apr 3 narthex, depending on where the
“THE VIRTUAL Ash Wednesday
Youth-led Service bus leaves from). Get ready for
BODY OF CHRIST” a fun overnight! We will spend
PASTOR LOSE AND PROFESSOR (7th- 8th Gr) Please attend the
DEANNA A. THOMPSON time eating good food, playing
Ash Wednesday Youth-led Service
M TOL I VET.OR G MAR 2 019 MOU NT OL I VET MES SENG ER
fun games with the junior high
with your family. Confirmation
youth staff, swimming, and
students will be participating in
Confirmation Going hanging out with our high school
this special service. We will also be
to Lenten Truth Talks counselors. We also will have a
communing together. This service
special Communion service with
(7th-8th Gr) 3/13 & 3/27 is in place of the 4:15pm and 7pm
our pastors, and of course Sacred
(No Class 3/20 & 4/3). 3/20 & Confirmation classes on this night.
Ground! All Confirmands are
4/3 (No Class 3/27). Confirmation
required to attend one retreat
students will be attending the
Truth Talks (only one left)! Only 20 boys and
Lenten Truth Talks at 7pm in place
3/13 & 3/27. 3/20 & 4/3. 20 girls can attend each retreat.
of regular Sunday morning and
See left column box for details. Note: There will It does not matter which campus
Wednesday 4:15pm Confirmation
be no Confirmation classes on these dates. you attend Confirmation. You
classes. There will be no Mpls
will need to pack a sleeping bag,
Sunday or Wednesday 4:15pm
pillow, swimsuit, and towel (if
Confirmation classes in March. All
you plan on swimming), toiletries,
Sunday and Wednesday 4:15pm = REGISTER AT MTOLIVET.ORG and jammies. No electronics or
classes are going to the 7pm Lenten OR BY CALLING 612.926.7651 phones allowed. Please leave them
Truth Talks on Wednesday, = Mpls Campus, = West Campus at home. Please register today!
March 13 and 27 in Mpls. SEE PAGE 2 FOR CAMPUS ADDRESSES FREE.
|
11CHILD R EN & FA MILY MIN IS T RY
Open Gym
(1-6yrs & Caregivers)
Sa 3/16, & 4/27 9-11am, Gym.
Come run, jump and play with
Preschool your kiddos! Wear tennis shoes, NEW! Family Lunch
Registration Open bring a water bottle – and we’ll & Learn at the
NOW for 2019-20 provide the fun! $5 per family. West Campus
Looking for a preschool where No registration. Su 3/17, 5/19 11am-12:30pm
your children can learn and grow Gronseth Fellowship Hall. Join
at their own pace? A place filled us for a mixed-age Sunday School
with play, music, creativity, and option once a month! Families
God’s love? Look no further than come to the 11am service (parents
the Mount Olivet Preschool! Our attend worship, children participate
days include: art, music, math/ and engage in a variety of Sunday
science, stories, outdoor play, School activities in Gronseth
large muscle room, dramatic play, Fellowship Hall). After the service,
faith development, and more! families come together for a short
Registration open now! devotion and share a meal. RSVP
for meal planning. FREE.
Preschool Summer
Sampler
7/16-7/18 (Tu-Th) 9am-11:30am
Preschool. Children may come First Communion
and see what the Mount Olivet Service
Preschool is all about! Sign up (6th Gr) Su 3/3, 11am
to spend a few days in the Worship Service, 12noon Worship
preschool. This is a great way for Service. Bring your 6th-grader to
your child to preview the rooms, Fellowship Hall to check in (
get a feel for the daily schedule, 10:30am, 11:30am). The group
MO UNT OL I VET MES SENG ER MAR 2019 MTO LI VET.OR G
and spend some time getting to will process into church and sit
know the teachers and potential as a class. After the service, pick
classmates for the fall. $50. up your 6th-grader in Fellowship
Hall. To have your 6th-grader’s
Baby Bunch name included in the bulletin,
(Infants to 6mos & each 6th-grader and a parent must
Caregivers) W 3/6-3/27 have attended a First Communion
10-11am, Nursery. Join other class (no new classes are being Family Bingo Night!
moms / caregivers and babies offered). Su 4/28 4:15-6pm, Fellowship
for fellowship, conversation, and Hall. Join the Children & Family
devotions. No cost. No registration. Children’s Choirs Ministry team for the 2nd Annual
Questions: Amy Porthan Your children and their friends are Family Bingo Night! Great prizes
612.767.2224 amyp@mtolivet.org. invited to join a children’s choir for all ages, fun for the whole
anytime during the year. Visit family, dinner provided – what
mtolivet.org for details. more could one ask for?! This was
= REGISTER AT MTOLIVET.ORG
REALM is our new online member a great evening last year, and we
OR BY CALLING 612.926.7651
login that enables you to stay connected hope you can join us! Bingo starts
= Mpls Campus, = West Campus
with your Mount Olivet friends, staff, and at 4:30pm with dinner to follow.
SEE PAGE 2 FOR CAMPUS ADDRESSES
programs. Visit mtolivet.org for details. $15 per family.
|
12CHILD REN & FA MILY MIN IS T RY
COP Preview Nights
(2nd-3rd Gr as of Sep
2019) 5pm F 5/3 to 10am Sa 5/4,
or 5pm F 5/10 to 10am Sa 5/11;
Mount Olivet Conference & Retreat
Center, ( Bus). Are you
heading to Cathedral of the Pines
this summer or considering it? We
have a great night planned for you
to meet some of the counselors
and fellow campers joining you.
Join us for an overnight at the
Retreat Center. We will swim,
play games, and get excited about
Thank You, Tasha!
COP this summer! $45 includes
accommodations, food, and bus.
Registration is open now!
Tasha Holifield, Sunday School Coordinator at the West Campus is moving
on to new adventures. Since 2015, Tasha has brought energy, excitement,
and fun to the Children & Family Ministry team. While Tasha’s full time
employment has ended, she will still be around on Sunday mornings at the
West Campus until we fill this position. Thanks to Tasha for her ministry,
kindness, and care for the youth of Mount Olivet!
Musikgarten “Tasha is by far one of the most passionate and hardworking individuals I have
M TOL I VET.OR G MAR 2 019 MOU NT OL I VET MES SENG ER
(Birth-5yrs & Caregivers) had the pleasure of working with. The office will take a little getting used to
6/18-8/7, Rm 393. without her boisterous laugh and straightforward attitude. I wish her luck in all
TUESDAYS WEDNESDAYS her future endeavors.” – MAXWELL JONES
9:30-10am, Birth-3yrs 9:30-10am, 3-5yrs
10:15-10:45am, Birth-3yrs 10:15-10:45am, Birth-3yrs Child Care / Mount Baptism Class
11-11:30am, 3-5yrs 11-11:30am, Birth-3yrs Olivet Day Services 3rd Su, Lounge 8am, Bride’s
6:15-6:45pm, Birth-3yrs (6wks-5yrs) Mount Olivet Dressing Rm 9am. Register
Experience the benefits of music Day Services, licensed by 1wk in advance: Jenny Nellis
and movement in the development the Department of Human 612.767.2247 jnellis@mtolivet.org.
of your child. Our licensed Musik- Services, provides a unique
garten teachers will help your child intergenerational experience.
develop listening skills, focused Children have opportunities Nurseries are located
attention, imagination, creativity, to interact and have fun with below the sanctuaries at .
and self-expression. $56 for the first participants of the Mount Olivet Children 6wks to 3yrs are welcome
child, $28 per additional sibling. Day Services adult program
and residents living at Mount during the 9, 10 & 11am worship
Registration is open now!
Olivet Home and Mount Olivet services. Questions: Amy Porthan
Visit mtolivet.org for registration and more! Careview Home. Contact: Allison amyp@mtolivet.org.
Lewis 612.861.8812.
|
13CAPITAL CAMPAIGN: FINISHING STRONG!
YO U R SU P P ORT MA KES A D IFFER EN CE
Goal: $13.2 M Raised: $10.8 M Needed: $2.4 M
Construction of the West
Campus addition is
underway, and YOUR
help is needed to cross
the finish line! If 800
HOUSEHOLDS GIVE
$20 A WEEK FOR 3 YEARS,
the project will be funded!
1st - time capital campaign
gifts will be MATCHED
DOLLAR FOR DOLLAR
by generous donors, if you
Most of us think pledge or give by 03.15.19.
nothing of spending Give NOW at mtolivet.org.
hundreds per year for Choose “Capital Campaign – Finishing
our kids to play sports. Strong” from the drop-down box and note
I encourage you to make that same your gift is designated for the West Campus.
kind of commitment to support the Mail checks to Mount Olivet, 5025 Knox
Ave S, Mpls, MN 55419 (put West Campus
much-needed West Campus addition
Capital Campaign on memo line), or contact
that will help our kids develop Mari Carlson 612.821.3150 mcarlson@
MOU NT O LI VET MES S ENGER MA R 2019 MTO LI VET.O RG
wonderful relationships with church mtolivethomes.org.
friends and grow in their relationship
with God. – MATT PODHRADSKY
|
14THE ST. JOHN’S BIBLE, THE PRODIGAL SON,
IN CON CLU S ION
AND THE WORLD TRADE CENTER
lost coin. Below we see a solitary sheep, no sign of the rest
of the herd in sight. The golden angels above and to the
right of these illustrations represent the joy of finding the
coin, while paint flourishes convey excitement.
In the center strip, we come to the parable of the
Good Samaritan. Here we see direct quotes from the
parable, including the question Jesus asks at the end,
encouraging viewers toward personal reflection. Red brush
marks symbolize the dangers conveyed in the story, but
more importantly, represent the risks we all must take at
times in showing our love.
But it is the parable of the Prodigal Son that contains
the story behind the story. Depicted between the Rich
Man and Lazarus and the Good Samaritan, there are no
golden angels present, for there is no joyful ending for
this parable. Instead, there is a subtle tie to modern-day
Hanging on the wall between the lounge doors at the events: The World Trade Center illuminated in gold!
Minneapolis Campus are four beautiful reproductions On the day that two planes flew into the World
from the St. John’s Bible, the first handwritten and Trade Center, you see, the artists working on this piece at
illuminated Bible commissioned since the invention a scriptorium in Wales had been struggling with how to
of the printing press more than 500 years ago. These represent the Prodigal Son. As do many of us, Lead Scribe
beautiful prints, Creation, The Birth of Christ, The Donald Jackson and others on the team found the parable
Geneaology of Jesus, and Luke Anthology, are singly and unsettling. Like the older brother, they struggled with
together worth your time and study. But it is the last, a “fairness” and other issues in the parable.
mesmerizing depiction of several classic parables from As I toured the exhibit of the St John’s Bible at Mia
Luke along with the narrative story of Mary and Martha, several years ago with Jackson, he told the story of how
that has a particularly beautiful “story behind the story.” upon hearing what had happened in New York, the team
First things first, however. was so overcome they quit work. When they returned
Important to know in viewing any illuminated the next day, they all knew how they wanted to finish the
manuscript, is that gold leaf is more than decoration: section on the Prodigal Son: They would represent the
It symbolizes God or God’s presence, love, forgiveness, or Twin Towers of the World Trade Center in gold! Why
joy. On the right side of the illumination is the story of gold? They did it, Jackson explained as tears welled in his
M TOL I VET.OR G MAR 2 019 MOU NT OL I VET MES SENG ER
Mary and Martha, separated by white space to distinguish eyes recalling the scene, because the world so desperately
it from the parables. The golden figure of Christ stands needed assurance that even in the midst of such evil, God
above Mary and Martha, with golden beams of light is present, that only with the help of God can we begin to
descending from him to the parables of the lost – God forgive some wrongs; and that God will be with us in our
seeking people. struggle to forgive.
On the bottom right corner of the left-hand section On Sunday, March 24, our sermon will center of the
of the piece, is the parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus. parable of the Prodigal Son. Sometime before or after,
The rich man is detached from the scene, wearing a try to find time to view this beautiful piece of art. And
now-useless purple robe in the hell he cannot escape, on March 18 (West) or 19 (Mpls), come to hear Luther
while above him in heaven rest Abraham and Lazarus, Seminary Archivist Paul Daniels present and discuss
flanked by golden angels. Between them and the rich selections from the Seminary’s extensive collection of
man is a chasm symbolized by a grey strip with black and Prodigal Son art, spanning many cultures and over 400
white figures of the poverty stricken scavenging among years! Details are on page 8.
modern-day garbage dumps. Highlighted here is the
moral blindness that the rich man, and perhaps all of us, – CAROL THRONTVEIT, DIRECTOR OF ADULT LEARNING
is afflicted with at times.
Moving to the top left corner, the parable of the lost Note: The St John’s Bible prints that hang in the Minneapolis
coin is depicted, and below it, the lost sheep. Ten circles Campus hallway were given anonymously by a donor to
symbolize the coins, with one filled in, representing the honor her sons’ Confirmations.
|
15PERIODICALS
U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
TWIN CITIES, MN
Mount Olivet Messenger
USPS 365-500
Published monthly by
Mount Olivet Lutheran Church
5025 Knox Avenue South
Minneapolis, MN 55419-1095
Periodicals postage paid at
St. Paul, MN
POSTMASTER
Send address changes to
Mount Olivet Messenger
5025 Knox Avenue South
Minneapolis, MN 55419-1095
PAGE 4 PAGE 9
PAGE 9
This Lent we are focusing on what happens when we Look Up –
we see God at work in our lives, we see people with needs we can
meet, we discover people with gifts to share, and we are surprised
at what God is doing right in front of us! At our Lent Truth Talks,
“Living Online ~ Living Loved” and “The Virtual Body of Christ,”
we will learn to Look Up when we use our digital devices to extend
ourselves and God’s compassion in ways never imagined even a
generation ago. See page 4 for details.You can also read
