The Galilean Log

February 2010

From the Pastor

February is known as the month of love. We celebrate Valentines day, and share our love and friendship with one another. Love is a wonderful gift to share. Have you ever thought about the fact that anyone can give the gift of love. It is a gift that requires no money, and is available to every socio-economic group. Love is an equal opportunity gift. Everyone can love, and everyone is able to be loved. “For God so loved the world (all of God's creation) that God gave His only beloved Son, that whoever believes in him shall not parish, but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16) God loves all of us. That is why God gave us the gift of Jesus and eternal life. God gave us the gift of love. And no one, and nothing can take that gift from us. St. Paul writes in Romans 8:38-39, “For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

When Jesus was asked what law was the most important, he responded that the law of Moses could be summarized into two commandments. Love the LORD your God, and love your neighbor as yourself. This is the calling and the mission of the Christian Church. Love is expressed by our words and our deeds. In 1 Cor. Paul writes, “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.” (For a further reading on how St. Paul describes love, read 1 Corinthians 13) I think it is easy for human beings and the Christian church to lose focus on the mission to which Jesus has called us. It has always been easy for the Christian Church to “keep a record of wrongs” of those who differ with us theologically. 

At the recent ELCA churchwide gathering, many fabulous resolutions were written and accepted that focused on our calling to love our neighbor as ourself. Memorials (resolutions that come from various Synods) were adopted that called for compassion for immigrants, a commitment to deepen our involvement with Lutheran disaster response, a commitment to help Palestine and Israel live together in peace, a resolution to seek social justice for women, along with many others. None of these issues were adopted unanimously. Wherever church policies are made, there are some who will disagree with them. There were also resolutions the assembly voted to adopt as policy. The ELCA committed ten million dollars over the next three years to help prevent the spreading of HIV/AIDS. The ELCA developed an initiative to fight Malaria, particularly in Africa. Full communion with the United Methodist Church was adopted. This was an important resolution. We can now commune with Methodists who have a different understanding of the sacrament. We understand and believe that our witness together of Christ's death and resurrection is more important than the differences we may have. 

Then the most controversial issue came before the churchwide assembly. The question of ELCA policies regarding homosexuality. Once again, there was division in the house. And once again, the decision was made based on a 2/3 majority. The churchwide assembly voted to allow congregations to determine policies regarding homosexuality based on the congregations bound conscience. No congregation is being forced to write a policy that may divide the congregation. The resolution simply allows partnerships that were previously forbidden. This policy is not very different from the one that allows for full communion with the United Methodists. Every congregation has the right to participate with other Christians who differ in theology and biblical interpretation, or to reject that opportunity based on biblical beliefs and interpretation. I believe these resolutions allow the church to act as the body of Christ. 1 Corinthians 12 says, “The body is a unit, though it is made up of many parts; and though all its parts are many, they form one body. So it is with Christ. For we were all baptized by one Spirit into one body—whether Jews or Greeks, slave or free—and we were all given the one Spirit to drink.

Galilean is a wonderful congregation filled with the love of Christ. I see it every day in the words and deeds of the members. Though we have our differences – even in biblical interpretation - we work together for the unity of proclaiming Christ crucified and risen for the forgiveness of sin. The mission of Galilean is Growing in, Living out and Celebrating the Grace and Love of Christ Jesus our Lord. Congregational policies need to reflect mission statements. Policies and mission statements may express love, but actions demonstrate our love. (See James 1:22) And so we live out our mission statement which says that we as the people of God are patient, kind, not boastful, not envious, not filled with selfish pride, not rude or self seeking, we are not an angry people, nor are we a people who keep a record of the wrongs of others. We are a people who live in a community filled with the love of Christ Jesus, and who reflect that love to others. We are a resurrection people who celebrate new life in Christ and the promise of salvation to all who believe. We are a 1 Corinthian 13 church. Our policy is living out the love of Jesus Christ in spite of our differences. We are a loving church, not only in policy but in deed. That is something to celebrate and claim. 

Enjoy the month of love, and remember to share it with others. Love is worth more when you share it!           

 Pastor Jeff

From the President’s Desk

On January 17, 2010 I took on the responsibility as President of the Congregational Council. Looking back at those who preceded me in this Chair, I am reminded of the one thing that each past President had in common. That was their continuing love, dedication and a willingness to continue to serve the church. They did not “enlist” for a year or two and then fade into obscurity. They signed on “Till death do us part” and then some. What a noble legacy and one that I promise to uphold when I finish my year as your council President. I too, am in it for the long haul. I am here to serve God, the Church and as everyone of you are the Council, to serve YOU.

In Christ’s Love, everyone is someone!

God Bless you and thank you for your vote of confidence.

Your Friend in Christ,

Council Retreat!!!

On Thursday, February 4 from 6 to 8 pm we will be having a Council Retreat at the Resource Center, Clear Lake.

All council members for the year 2010 are invited to attend. It will be a time of getting to know one another with games, fellowship, and dinner will be served.

See you then!!

Bob Johnson ~ President

Dollars and Sense (Cents) ~

December 2009

Regular Giving: $10,175.63

Designated Giving: $2,145.62

Memorials Received: $50.00

            Total Incoming: $12,371.25

Operating Expense: $12,333.28

Designated Giving Paid out: $2,839.72

Memorial Funds Used: $341.70

            Total Outgoing: $15,514.70

$4,000.00 Line of Credit Loan Owed

Average Attendance 2008: 90

Average Attendance 2009: 104

Sally Litterer, Treasurer

“Generous People” is this year’s

Stewardship Theme! 

Galilean’s spiritual gifts of financial giving, time and talent sharing, and daily generosity of the love of Christ will be at the forefront! We will see our Galilean Tree of generosity grow throughout the year!

James 1:17 ~ Every generous act of giving with every perfect gift, is from above.

From the Galilean Stewardship Team

Jan Fynskov, Connie Bieber, Jackie Swanson, Marilyn Chalgren

Struggling with Illness

Dick Becker            Sandra Fischer

Karen Barrett    Bruce Evans

Betty Wind            Jo Ann Shallberg

Recovering from

Health problems

Maxine Shropshire

Larry Petersen

Our Men in the Military

Cole Fatland

Andrew Branstad

Chris Sorensen

Meeting was called to order by President Janeil Olson. Roll Call: Present ~ Janeil Olson, Bob Johnson, Sally Litterer, Kelsey Litterer, Marcia Latham, Karen Hernes, Wayne & Amy Pralle, Jeff Stealy, Louanne Bonin, Dana Sorensen, Kelsey Litterer, Pastor Jeff Ungs. Absent ~ Leanne Hicks, Jo Ann Shallberg

Agenda was approved with flexibility.

Bob Johnson motioned to approve the Secretary’s report, Sharon Ryg seconded. Motion passed.

Treasurer’s Report: Some of the figures were off for salary. Every time we change the Pastor’s salary, we need to notify the Board of Pensions. This has not been done for quite some time in the past, this will be corrected in the future. S.S. allowance was changed to match what it will be. Most of our spending guide and ministries is to serving others, remember this in response to our budget. Jeff Stealy motioned to approve the spending guide. Bob Johnson seconded. Motion passed.

There is still $7,000 of unused Memorial money. A “Thank You” committee may be in order. Marcia Latham motioned to approve the Treasurer’s report. Karen Hernes seconded. Motion passed.

Pastor’s Report: Zion update: 366 voters, 8 people decided not to vote. 1 person had an invalid vote (checked yes and no), and 8 votes were thrown out. Synod says the vote failed per the ELCA Constitution. Zion argued the 2/3 vote passed, (their constitution). Zion will have a second vote in the Spring. Synod says the 1^st vote needs to be passed first. You can find the letters to Pastor Hess & the council on line, look up NE Iowa Synod. Continue to pray for Zion. A lot of people went to vote and were rejected because they did not meet constitutional law.

Captive Free of Youth Encounter will be here January 17 at 6 pm giving a concert. Free Will love offering will be given. Still need host homes for the 5 youth coming.

Youth: Serving lunch for the Annual Meeting and Pizza to the Captive Free youth on Sunday, January 17. They will be selling Butterbraids this winter, the goal is to sell 250 Butterbraids. The LYO Assembly will be held in March in Dubuque.

Property: Electrical work needs to be done, possibly redoing the light switches, checking with an electrician for suggestions. The Sound System is going to be redone immediately. A motion was made by Jeff Stealy to give Clay Starrett a $150 Gas Card, seconded by Sally Litterer. Motion passed. Scot Sorensen is working on the ceiling leak problem in the office and will fix it.

Worship: The commission is meeting Thurs. January 21 at 4:30pm to plan services for Feb., March & April. This will include Ash Wednesday, the Lenten services, Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday and Easter Sunday. The Bells have been refurbished and are back, Bell Choir has begun practices.

Evangelism: Grocery items for those who need help  in getting them, is still being done!

Old Business: Waldorf needs financial support to keep up the Spiritual part of the college.

New Business: Agenda for the Annual Report is complete. May need amendments for our Constitution for the church. All positions for council/commission nominees are complete. There will be a Council transitioning meeting for the ‘old and new’ to come together for ideas and suggestions for the upcoming year.

All commission members going off of the council need to pass on the commission books to the new commission members.

Sally Litterer made the motion to adjourn, seconded by Sharon Ryg. Motion passed.

February 9 is the next council meeting. Devotions will be given by Pastor Jeff.

The meeting closed with the Left-handed Lord’s Prayer.

Respectfully submitted, Kelsey Litterer, for Jo Ann Shallberg

Community Kitchen is ours to serve in

February!!

 Galileans are again responsible for serving at Community Kitchen on the following dates:

Mon. Feb. 15, Wed. Feb. 17, Fri. Feb. 19

and Mon. Feb. 22, Wed. Feb. 24, Fri. Feb. 26.

The Sign up Sheet for this will be on the table beginning Sunday, February 7th

Youth Crusader News and Notes to Note!

Butterbraid Fund Raiser -

The Youth are selling Butterbraids, 8 yummy flavors to choose from - price is $12 each - Our goal is 250 Butterbraids or more!

This is a great item to have in the freezer for when company comes.Payment is requested at the time of the order.Orders will be delivered in March. Contact any of our youth or Dana to place your order. The money will go to registration for the

LYO assembly on March 14.

Youth Meeting - February 14 @ 5:00 -

Turn in Butterbraid orders with money.

Thanks!! Dana & Wayne ~

Community Kitchen Notes to Note and Know for 2010

The following is just an update to all who serve for this community function and for those who happened to be doing this for the first time this year ~ Thanks!

Bring your own dish towels especially on Wednesdays at the Senior Center. Also on Wednesday’s pick up the Senior Center key at Matt Berry’s office at 306 Main Avenue.

Make sure there is enough Milk to serve. If needed, pick up a gallon of 1% at Fareway or Econo Foods and charge to the Community Kitchen account. Milk is the only item that can be charged.  Be sure to wash tables and counters with a bleach solution. One capful of bleach per gallon of water-use, the ice cream pail is under the sink.  Make 8 to 10 cups of coffee in warmer months, 10 –20 cups in the winter. Serve 5:30-6:15, give clients opportunity to lead the prayer. Be sure to use gloves as you serve.  Record the # of 1st and 2nd servings and the # of carry-out meals on the forms provided.  Encourage clients to take home food that is not consumed. On Friday, discard all food that remains. 

If you run out of food from Mason City or feel there isn’t enough, there should be ready-to-heat meals (stew, ravioli, etc.) in the cupboard.

For needed supplies please call:

Ray Faust, 357-6567,November—April and Sonnee Steveson, 829-3840, May-October. There are no longer extra supplies at Matt Berry’s office.

Karen Holm, Parish Office

Sunday, February 7th

Accompanist: Brenda Bonnstetter

Acolyte: Bryce Olson

Worship Assistant: Dan

Gapinski

Reader: Dave Bauer

Communion Prep: Kim & Sue Dwyer

Communion Servers: Kayla Bonnstetter, Jerry Gunnerson, Deb Brastrom

Bread/Juice: Glenn & Maxine Shropshire

Usher/Greeters: Greg& Deb Hanson

Coffee Hosts: Brandt/Sorensen Youth

Sunday, February 14th

  Accompanist: Karen Hernes

Acolyte: Alisha Ungs

Worship Assistant: Dick Olson

Reader: Leah Bonnstetter

Usher/Greeters: Kevin & Mary Hanson

Coffee Hosts: Clay & Susan Starrett, Susan Starrett

Ash Wednesday:

Accompanist: Linda Hopper

Worship Assistant: Marilyn Chalgren

Reader: Janeil Olson

Communion will be by

Intinction

We are in need of Usher/Greeters for this evening. Please contact Leanne Hicks or Karen Holm if you would like to Usher/Greet, thanks! 

Sunday, February 21st

Accompanist: Linda Hopper

Acolyte: Haley Suby

Worship Assistant: Deb Brastrom

Reader: Lisa Welper

Communion Prep: Al & Karen Holm

Communion Servers: Dale Kroon, Jan Fynskov,

Larry Eichmeier

Bread/Juice: Kim & Deb Brastrom

Usher/Greeters: Rae & Connie Bieber

Coffee Hosts: Dave & Linda Hopper

Sunday, February 28th

Accompanist: Sandy Gunnerson

Acolyte: Aaron Ungs

Worship Assistant: Jim Latham

Reader: Karen Hernes

Usher/Greeters: Dennis & Barb Rinnels

Coffee Hosts: Bill & Janeil

Olson

Video Tape:

Brock & Dalton Brandt and

Drew Sorensen

Understanding Grief and Loss Support Group

Support Groups are offered at various times and locations. The next scheduled group is listed below:

Sponsored by Hospice of North Iowa

7 Sessions on Monday evenings from

February 15—March 29, 2010

6:00—8:00 PM

St. James Lutheran Church

1148 4th St. S. E.

Mason City

Fireside Room

There is no charge for this group. Space is limited.

To register please call Hospice of North Iowa at

1-800-297-4719 or 641-422-6208

Here is Chris Sorensen’s Address with the  U.S. Marine Corps if you would like to send him greetings either by mail or email: 

LCpl Sorensen, Christopher

7th Comm BN SVC Co Cem

Unit 35613

FPO AP96606

Email: ilikepie42@hotmail.com 

The meeting was called to order by President Janeil Olson. Devotions were led by Pastor Jeff Ungs. There were 52 members present.

A motion was made my Dan Gapinski to approve the meeting agenda. Kim Gapinski seconded. Motion carried.

The Minutes from the 2009 Annual Meeting were read by acting secretary Marilyn Chalgren. Jan Fynskov made a motion to accept the minutes. Ilse Bruntjen seconded. Motion carried.

Time was allowed for members to look over the commission and staff reports. Dan Gapinski made a motion to accept the reports. Leanne Hicks seconded. Motion carried.

Pastor Ungs gave a report on updates to the Constitution made the ELCA. He recommended that we adopt these changes as that would make us in accordance with the church wide constitution. Jeff Stealy made a motion to approve the amendments to the constitution. Ben Welper seconded. Motion carried.

Treasurer Sally Litterer gave her report. A motion was made by Dick Olson and seconded by Dan Gapinski to accept the Treasurer’s report. Motion carried.

Gary Bonnstetter gave the Financial Secretary’s report. He encouraged members to use their offering envelopes or consider the Simply Giving option.

.

Nominating Committee Chairman, Larry Hoffman, presented the slate of council and church representatives for 2010.  Volunteers completed the slate: IFCA ~ Bob Johnson; Synod Assembly ~ Marilyn Chalgren, Jim Latham. The Nominating Committee for 2011 will be Karen Hernes, Sharon Ryg, Vicki Whelan, Jeff Stealy and Sandy Gunnerson. Jerry Gunnerson made a motion to accept the Slate of Nominations for 2010. Wayne Pralle seconded. Motion carried.

President Olson thanked the outgoing council members for their service and support. She also thanked the Youth for the meal being served after the meeting.

Pastor Ungs led the Lord’s Prayer at closing. Dan Gapinski made a motion to adjourn the meeting. Jerry Gunnerson seconded. Motion carried.

Respectfully Submitted,

            Marilyn Chalgren,

                        Acting Secretary

2010 Council:

President: Bob Johnson

Vice President: Leanne Hicks

Secretary: Jo Ann Shallberg

Treasurer: Sally Litterer

Worship: Dan Gapinski & Marilyn Chalgren

Congregational Life: Susan Starrett (Clay)

Evangelism: Amy Pralle

Stewardship: Jan Fynskov, Jackie Swanson, Connie Bieber

Property: Jeff  Stealy

Learning: Vicki Whelan &

Sue Brandt

Social Concerns: Cecilia Fuller

Youth: Dana Sorensen &

Wayne Pralle

Parliamentarian: Janeil Olson

Young Adult at Large: Kelsey Litterer

Financial Secretary:

Gary Bonnstetter

Audit Committee: Dick Olson, Dave Bauer

Lutheran Services of Iowa:

Jan Fynskov

Riverside Lutheran Bible Camp: Brenda Bonnstetter

To ~ Lou Stealy, Louanne Bonin, Kelli Ungs, Karen Holm, Connie Bieber, Sharon Ryg, Vonnie Morris, Joyce Price, Janeil Olson,  Jan Fynskov, Sue Brandt, Kayla & Leah Bonnstetter, Kelsey Litterer, Jessica Fuller, Isaac & Alisha Ungs, Karlen & Krystle Lu, and Drew Sorensen for supplying soups, etc. for the Advent mid-week soup suppers in December!!

To ~ Glen & Maxine Shropshire for providing Christmas Candy & Goodies Sacks to all the Sunday school children!!   

To ~ Our outgoing council members: Matt & Karen Hernes, Louanne Bonin, Sharon Ryg, and Marcia Latham for your sharing your time and talents on the 2009 Council!

To ~ Our incoming Council members: Susan Starrett (Clay), Vicki Whelan, Cecilia Fuller, Marilyn Chalgren, Dan Gapinski, Connie Bieber, Jan Fynskov, Jackie Swanson for choosing to share your time and talents on the 2010 Council!

To ~ Janeil Olson & Marilyn Chalgren for cleaning the kitchen and taking down and putting away the remainder of the Christmas decorations!! 

From ~ Thank you so much for your involvement in the Engage! Winter Outerwear Drive.  It was another amazing year as the Clear Lake community came together and cared for her neighbors.  We thought you’d like to hear how it went.

Once again, one by one, we dug into our closets, sewed, knitted and shopped the sales.  Over 400 coats were donated and distributed!  In addition, hundreds of hats, scarves, gloves, boots and snow pants came in, making creating outfits for our recipients such a joy!  We wish you could have seen the faces of the little ones as they bounced out the door so proud of their new outfits!  We sensed the adults felt the same way, just a bit more subdued.  

Warm winter outerwear was given to local residents, grandchildren and other family members, our local seniors through the Senior Center, as well as to residents of Prairie Ridge and Francis Lauer.

This year Engage! also joined with the Marines and the Salvation Army in their Toys for Tots Distribution.  Items not picked up on our distribution day were donated to the Salvation Army and made available for local residents to “shop” through after they chose that special toy and picked up all the fixings for their Christmas dinner.  By the end of the day all the donations had been given away with love. And just in time!   Not long after the outerwear was given, the cold winter blew in.

Thank you.  We say that on behalf of every person warmed by your kindness.  We are amazed at what this community accomplishes as it engages together!  

God bless your giving hearts. Fondly, Colleen Thompson

Click Here for the February 2010 Calendar

Thursday Evening Worship,  6:30 p.m.  

Church phone 641-357-2296

Pastor Scot McCluskey

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