from “Holiday Ideas” by Wayne Rice and Mike Yaconelli

How much do you really know about the Bible’s most popular story? During this time of hustle and bustle preparing for Christmas, take a moment to better understand the events surrounding Jesus’ birth. Answers will be shared in next week’s blog, December 10.

For those who would like to, send your answers to [email protected] by Monday, December 9. (No Cheating – that would be awful considering the topic of the quiz.)

If you have an additional question or questions to contribute, please add it in the comments. Enjoy!

1. As long as Christmas has been celebrated, it has been on December 25th. (True or False)

2. Joseph was from:
A. Bethlehem
B. Jerusalem
C. Nazareth
D. Egypt
E. Minnesota
F. None of the Above

3. How did Mary & Joseph travel to Bethlehem?
A. Camel
B. Donkey
C. Walked
D. Volkswagen
E. Joseph walked, Mary rode a donkey
F. Who knows?

4. Mary & Joseph were married when Mary became Pregnant. (True or False)

5. Mary & Joseph were married when Jesus was born. (True or False)

6. Mary was a virgin when she delivered Jesus. (True or False)

7. What did the innkeeper tell Mary & Joseph?
A. Come back after the Christmas rush and I should have some vacancies.
B. I have a stable you can use.
C. There is no room at the inn.
D. Both B & C
E. None of the above

8. Jesus was delivered in:
A. Stable
B. Manger
C. Cave
D. Barn
E. Unknown

9. A “manger” is:
A. A stable for domestic animals
B. Wooden hay storage bin
C. Feeding trough
D. Barn

10. Which animals does the Bible say were present at Jesus’ birth?
A. Cows, sheep & goats
B. Cows, donkeys, sheep
C. Sheep & goats
D. Misc. barnyard animals
E. Lions, tigers, elephants
F. None of the above

11. Who saw the “star in the East?”
A. Shepherds
B. Mary & Joseph
C. Three Kings
D. Both A & C
E. None of the above

12. How many angels spoke to the shepherds?
A. One
B. Three
C. A “Multitude”
D. None of the above

13. What “sign” did the angels tell the shepherds to look for?
A. This way to Baby Jesus
B. A star over Bethlehem
C. A baby that doesn’t cry
D. A house with a Christmas tree
E. A baby in a stable
F. None of the above

14. What did the angels sing?
A. “Joy to the World”
B. “Alleluia”
C. “Unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given”
D. “Glory to God in the highest…”
E. “Glory to the Newborn King”
F. “My Sweet Lord”

15. What is a “Heavenly Host?”
A. Angel at the gate to heaven
B. Angel who invites people to heaven
C. Angel who serves refreshments in heaven
D. An angel choir
E. An angel army
F. None of the Above

16. There was snow that first Christmas:
A. Only in Bethlehem
B. All over Israel
C. Nowhere in Israel
D. Somewhere in Israel
E. Mary & Joseph only dreamed of a white Christmas

17. The baby Jesus cried:
A. When the doctor slapped him on his behind
B. Just like other babies cried
C. When the little drummer boy started banging on his drum.
D. He never cried.

18. What is Frankincense?
A. A precious metal
B. A precious fabric
C. A precious perfume
D. An eastern monster story
E. None of the above

19. What is Myrrh?
A. An easily shaped metal
B. A spice for burying people
C. A drink
D. After-shave lotion
E. None of the above

20. How many wise men came to see Jesus?

21. What does “wise men” refer to?
A. Men of the educated class
B. They were eastern kings
C. They were astrologers
D. They were smart enough to follow the star
E. They were “sages”

22. The wise men found Jesus in a:
A. Manger
B. Stable
C. House
D. Holiday Inn
E. Good Mood

23. The wise men stopped in Jerusalem:
A. To inform Herod about Jesus
B. To find out where Jesus was
C. To ask about the star they saw
D. For gas
E. To buy presents for Jesus

24. Where do we find the Christmas story in order to check up on all these ridiculous questions?
A. Matthew
B. Mark
C. Luke
D. John
E. All the above
F. Only A & B
G. Only A & C
H. Only A, B & C
I. Only X, Y & Z
J. Aesops Fables

25. When Joseph & Mary found out that Mary was pregnant with Jesus, what happened?
A. They got married.
B. Joseph wanted to break the engagement
C. Mary left town for 3 months
D. An Angel told them to go to Bethlehem
E. A & D
F. B & C

26. Who told Mary & Joseph to go to Bethlehem?
A. The Angel
B. Mary’s mother
C. Herod
D. Caesar Augustus
E. Alexander the Great
F. No one told them to go

27. Joseph took the baby to Egypt:
A. To show him the pyramids
B. To teach him the wisdom of the Pharaohs
C. To put him in a basket in the reeds by the river
D. Because he dreamed about it
E. To be taxed
F. Joseph did not take Jesus to Egypt
G. None of the above

27. I think this test was:
A. Super
B. Great
C. Fantastic
D. All of the above
​
Blessings to you and yours this Christmas Season…

Like many people, I am not always in position to contribute financially – I am always looking for other ways to contribute.​

Most of you have heard me talk about the RaiseRight fundraising program or you have seen me selling gift cards in the Narthex.

I heard about RaiseRight program about 10 years ago. RaiseRight is a program widely used by schools, churches and other organizations for fundraising purposes. The church receives a rebate for all physical and electronic cards purchased and all additional funds applied to reloadable cards. There are hundreds of stores/vendors that offer gift cards with rebates ranging from 1.5% for Visa to 16% or more (Applebees ecard was 18% for a couple of days last week).

We kicked off the program in November 2020 and 7 SLLC families are actively participating at this time. 

St. Luke’s earned over $2000 in 2021, $1659 in 2022, $1570 in 2023 and over $1200 in net proceeds though the end of November 18, 2024. As you can see, this is a downward trend. I’d like to see our participation increase substantially, as these funds are put toward our Missions partners.

If you already bank or use Venmo, Velle or Paypal on your phone, you are already comfortable with using apps to conduct transactions. So why not use the RaiseRight app when shopping, and earn some money for St. Luke's?

Example of how I use RaiseRight: 

I regularly shop at Cub Foods. Cub offers a reloadable card through RaiseRight, so after receiving the physical gift card from RaiseRight, I have continued to add funds to the card via RaiseRight’s RaiseRight App on my cell phone. Funds can usually be added to cards in $10 increments. Cub offers a 4% rebate, so St. Luke’s receives $4 for every $100 added onto my Cub card. From January, 2024 to end of November 18, 2024, St. Luke’s has received $125 in rebates just from purchases that I made on my Cub gift card.  I also use RaiseRight cards when shopping at Target (2.5%), Walmart (2.5%), Applebees (8%), Land’s End (14%), Home Depot (4%), Children’s Place (12%), Menards (3%), Taco Bell (5%) and Scheels (8%). I love that I can contribute to St. Luke’s coffers while stocking my cupboards and filling my belly.   As a bonus, Cub is offering 6% back through Saturday, November 23.

Raise Days are November 21-22 and bonus rebates will be offered on ecards and card reloads for hundreds of brands.

Pros of program:

It is so convenient to shop with the RaiseRight app on a phone or device. It is the easiest way to participate, and it raises the most money for the church since there is no postage fee attached. Reloadable gift cards are available. If you have a child, grandchild or friend who does not live near you, electronic gift cards are available and can be emailed to friends or families. They have added a new program where you earn additional rebates when you shop online.

When you purchase an ecard or reload a gift card on your phone, the funds are delivered immediately. You can fill your shopping cart and add only the funds that you need to purchase the items in your cart – you don’t have to carry around a physical gift card until the next time you shop at a particular store.

RaiseRight offers daily bonus specials – with vendors offering higher rebates for a limited time. There is always a selection of vendors offering bonus rebates.

No activation fee – it often costs $5-$7 to activate a gift Visa card when purchased at local store such as Walgreen’s, Cub, Walmart or a gas station.

Cost to user: 

Value of the gift card. 

Shipping of physical gift cards to home (cost depends on weight/number of cards in envelope)
Service fee – ACH only 29 cents per transaction

Credit card purchase – purchaser pay cc service fee (approx. 2.6%)

Cons:

Not all gift cards are reloadable.

Not all gift cards can be shipped to your home; some are required to be shipped to coordinator. This is determined by the card vendor. (In the Home Improvement category - 14 stores offer physical gift cards, but only 7 stores offer the Ship to Home option).

Cost to ship cards to coordinator - $11.00 per shipment – we need to have a quantity of cards to justify the cost since the shipping costs for cards sent to the coordinator is charged to the church.

Shipping time - 

Physical cards can take anywhere from 3-7 days; maybe more - especially during Holiday season.

If I place an order on Monday for cards that need to be shipped to the coordinator, I usually receive cards by Friday.

People who are interested – send me an email at [email protected]. I will try to be available during WNL and between services on Sunday for the next couple of weeks to answer your questions, but you can contact me any time.

I will respond two emails. One with details of the program; the other with St. Luke’s registration code. Please closely read the email with details of the program!

I’m excited about the RaiseRight program and the fundraising opportunities it offers.

​It is with a very heavy heart to announce that I am taking a step back from my position as the Director of Children and Family Ministries here at St. Luke’s. This has been such an awarding position for me, and I am forever grateful for my time that I have spent here. Know this was not an easy decision for me, as my time here has been filled with so much joy, growth, and connection’s.
 
As I reflect on the last three years, I am incredibly grateful for the relationships I have bult, the families I have had the privilege of supporting, and especially all the wonderful children. This community and the friendships I have made will always be close to my heart.
 
I have also made some amazing memories as well including going on my first ever sailing trip, being a part of the handbell choir, working alongside some amazing people including Pastor Rob, who also officiated my wedding last year, and most importantly being able to see God’s love in action through our ministries.
 
I want to express my heartfelt appreciation to the entire church staff, the volunteers, and the families for this wonderful opportunity. Your support and dedication have made my role truly fulfilling. It has been a joy to partner with each of you in our mission to guide our children and families in their spiritual journeys.
 
In my remaining time here, I am committed to ensuring a smooth transition, and I want to make this as seamless as possible. My last Sunday in my position will be on Sunday, November 24th. Please know that while I may be stepping away from my position, I am not leaving. I have found my home here at St. Luke’s and I am excited to continue to be a part of the St. Luke’s Family. Thank you, St. Luke’s, for your support, your love, and the cherished memories.
 
With love and blessings,
 
Emily Hendricks 

Friday, November 8th from Noon-7 PM
Saturday, November 9th 9 AM – 3 PM

Help make our congregational community event a success. There is something for everyone and you won't want to miss it! Bring the whole family and all your friends together for a fun filled day of holiday wonder!

•  Local Artists will be presenting their…

o  Fused glass creations
o  Olive wood items from the Holy Land
o  Arts & crafts, dried flowers, diamond art
o  Charcuterie boards
o  Ornaments, German stars & handmade gift boxes
o  Quilts, rugs, table runners & hot pads
o  Hand knit hats, mittens and scarves, crocheted items
o  Photography & other framed paintings
o  Collectables & gnomes
o  Jewelry & Clothing, purses & bags
o  Cards & holiday wrap, decorations
o  Stocking stuffers to fit every budget
o  Food, candy & much more 

•   Sambusa Samosa Food Truck will be here with inside seating with more treats & beverages available
•    Fresh baked goods from a micro bakery & preserves & maple syrup
•     Live Music & Demonstrations both days
•     A raffle with expertly hand-crafted items & fun gift baskets with all proceeds going directly to St Luke’s ministries
•     A FREE Kids Market will be staffed by St Luke’s Elves giving away one free gift per child (while supplies last) that includes trinkets, arts & crafts, school supplies, toys & puzzles, clothing, favorite snacks and more
•     Howard Johnson will be on hand making balloon figures and give away candy canes, too

​For questions, please contact Deb Krieg at [email protected] for more information.

This Sunday we will remember those who have gone before. Those who have entered into the “Great Cloud of Witnesses” (Hebrews 12). We give thanks for their lives.

We share this belief each and every week when we pray the Apostles’ Creed, “I believe in…the communion of saints.” The communion of saints includes all who have placed their hope in Jesus Christ.

In my study, I was surprised to learn that the “communion of saints” includes the living.

From the blog, “What is the Significance of All Saints Day?” Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception. October 26, 2021 (nationalshrine.org)

“The Sermon on the Mount – specifically, the Beatitudes, are the “Basic Attitudes of Christ.” This passage is quite fitting for All Saints because all the saints experienced joy in the midst of sorrow or suffering. Jesus says in the Beatitudes that those who are poor, in mourning, or who are persecuted are blessed.

When we do our best to live out the beatitudes, we contribute to building up the kingdom of God here on earth. On All Saints, we pray in a special way to the saints that they continue to help and guide us along our path of life.

One of my favorite quotations from Saint Teresa of Calcutta is that ‘holiness is not the luxury of a few people, but a simple duty for you and me.’ We are all called to become saints, and we can accomplish that by striving to follow God’s commands and be united within God’s love. To be holy, to be a saint, means allowing God ‘to live Jesus’ life in us’ as Mother Teresa taught.”

Please join us this Sunday, November 3 at either or both worship times – 8:30 and 10 AM, when we will lift up those for whom we will celebrate their life and resurrection, from All Saints 2023 to All Saints 2024, here at St. Luke’s; both members and nonmembers alike.

We will say their name, show a picture, light a candle, and toll a bell for each one. As we do so prayerfully reflect upon your own life. Are you living out the “Attitudes of Christ” allowing the life of Jesus to live within you.

Let us remember those who have died along with ongoing prayers and blessings for their family and friends:

You are invited to announce, “Here I stand.” Just as Martin Luther did, so many years ago. We do likewise every Sunday when we stand to say the Apostles’ Creed answering the questions…
 
Do you believe in God the Father?
Do you believe in Jesus Christ, the Son of God?
Do you believe in God the Holy Spirit?
 
This Sunday at the 8:30 AM Worship, we will hear one of our students say the Apostles’ Creed. Yes, only one student, although there are three others in the same grade. In the past the Affirmation of Baptism, or better known as Confirmation was more based on grade instead of personal belief.
 
As a former youth minister, I was responsible for making sure students completed the “requirements” for confirmation. This included, regular worship, a number of service commitments, a year learning about the Bible study and a year learning about the Small Catechism, lots of students went through the motions without any intention of doing what they promised:
 
Do you intend to continue in the covenant God made with you in Holy Baptism…
 
…to live among God’s faithful people? (Community)
…to hear the word of God and share in the Lord’s Supper? (Discipleship and Worship)
…to proclaim the good news of God in Christ through word and deed? (Evangelism)
…to serve all people, following the example of Jesus? (Service)
…to strive for justice and peace in all the earth? (Stewardship)
 
What students are asked to do is “Simply What Every Christian Should Do.”
 
That is why Reformation, Affirmations of Baptism, and Giving Sunday are celebrated together.
 
How will you live out the Core Values in the year ahead?
 
We have the opportunity to make the same promise this year with the 2025 Commitment Card. The response from many members is an appreciation for a holistic understanding of stewardship, inviting people to make a commitment to live out our Core Values, as found in the parenthesis above. It is only by each of us doing what we are able to fulfill our mission,
 
St. Luke’s is a welcoming and growing community of faith, busy making Christ known to the world.
 
Yes, this requires a financial commitment which is includes two areas:

1. Operating Fund – This is for the working of the church, supporting staff, ministries, and the building.

1. Mortgage Fund – This is the cost of our annual mortgage. This fund is used to make our monthly payments.

 
There is good news and bad news for the second one:
 
Good News – The Mortgage Fund has an end date in 2031. May of 2031 will be the last full payment and June of 2031 with have the last payment of $2,800.

Bad News – This commitment has no wiggle room. We pay almost $168,000 every year for our mortgage; thus, the only area we have any flexibility is in the Operating Budget.

I appreciated what Pastor Steve Olson said in his sermon on Sunday. This is a time when we listen to God when making our commitments. How will you live out your life of faith? May you honor God, not giving from your leftovers, but making a joyful dedication of what you have received, our time, talent, and treasure.
 
When you do so, you are trusting God’s promise as shared by the Prophet Jeremiah (29:11)
 
For surely, I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord. Plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope.

Here I stand!

Ongoing prayers and blessings,
Rob

October is upon us, and so is the unofficial ‘eating season” that kicks off with Halloween, and sort of ends with a wrapped box of chocolates in a heart shaped box in the middle of February. Or it could end with a basket of candy delivered by the Easter Bunny. 

​Does it ever really end? We seem to live from one eating experience to the next – Halloween; Thanksgiving; Christmas; Valentine’s Day; Easter; Memorial Day and 4th of July cookouts. We commemorate birthdays, weddings, first dates, friendship, and funerals all with food.  Hey guys, “I’ve got the grill fired up”, or “the coals are ready”, or “it’s a perfect night to roast marshmallows and hot dogs over the fire”, or “I’m not really hungry, but I just have to have something sweet”, are all common phrases in the lexicon of our lives. The list is endless. It shows in our grocery bill. It shows in my closet (does anyone one else have multiple sizes of thin clothes as opposed to current clothes?) It shows in our love for cooking and the rich heritage of family recipes and church cookbooks.

I think it is well established that we like to eat. Offer food, and they will come. At St. Luke’s, we don’t just like to feed ourselves, but we like to feed others. Others who may not be able to feed themselves. We have such a love for others, and what better way to show that we love someone than to feed them? (Jesus had a better way, but we work with the tools we are given.) Did you know that eating is mentioned over 1200 times in the Bible? Eating is so fundamental; it is part of our tradition through the holy sacrament of Communion. 

At St. Luke’s we help those with food insecurity through our monetary and physical gifts (both with items and in terms of volunteering). We give to: VEAP, Loaves and Fishes, Meals on Wheels, Oasis, Fisher House, Feed My Starving Children and the Sandwich Project. I’m sure there are other projects that I have missed, but I believe this illustrates our passion for feeding those who are hungry.

Our October Mission is the Sandwich Project. St. Luke’s held its first sandwich making event in the spring of 2016 when we partnered with the community to make over 1100 sandwiches for The Sandwich Project MN. That same year, on the Wednesday before Thanksgiving, “The Sandwich Man” Alan Law joined us at St. Luke’s, and we made 100 sandwiches that were delivered that evening by the Love One Another organization.

On Wednesday, October 16th, we will be making 400 sandwiches for the Groveland Food Shelf. That evening we will also be holding our Fall Festival and Cookout. Please join us at 5:30PM in the Fellowship Hall to make sandwiches, followed by a celebration of our wonderful St. Luke’s family by (of course) sharing a meal together.

With a grateful heart,
Bev Brosam
Missions