Ahoy sailors! We are so excited to sail this September 23-25 and would like to share some highlights of what you will experience. 

The wildlife is amazing. Last year we saw a mother bear with three of her cubs. Many eagles to look at as they sore though the bright blue sky.

Skippers teach and lead the sailing crew through the gusty winds taking us to the utmost outer islands such as Devils Island. This island is on the far north west side of the apostles and has the old crystal glass in the light house to guide boats to safety. Quite a sight to be seen. You will determine the route based on weather and winds. We can choose from 22 islands and different routes. You will learn about the history of the islands as we sail. The Skippers and Crew will have some opportunities to hike some of the islands. The islands are part of the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. Only four islands are part of Ashland County, Sand, Eagle, York, and Raspberry.

The landscape and the fall colors are gorgeous. You may have the opportunity while hiking to observe mushrooms, flowers, withered trees, and find some agates while on the beach. Most of the lighthouses are closed for the season, however, the islands are open. The hiking is a great time to get your land legs back and explore the trails. In the evening on a clear night experience the brilliant stars. It may be a bit chilly for the Northern lights. Bring a pair of binoculars to get a close up of the night sky.

For all who hope to go and those interested, please join us on Thursday, August 25th for a get to know one another event. 

There will be pizza served (cash donations appreciated), and dessert. We will meet at 6:30 PM in the Great Room at St. Luke’s Lutheran Church. 

During the event we will play some games and work out our menu options. This will give you opportunity to arrange car pooling and to hear stories of past sailing trips. If you have specific dietary requirements, this is a time to let us know. We will go over what to bring and what to leave at home. Looking forward to sail through the majestic islands this fall. 

Cost is $425. If you have questions, please feel free to call Rob Norris Weber at 612-203-9588. 

Leadership for those who already know their incompetence
Resource as we read through 1st Peter
Sunday Message Series: July 24 – August 21, 2022


Authentic leaders are genuinely aware of their incompetence.” It was this statement in the description of this book that encouraged me to read it. This is important for two very good reasons. First, this truth keeps us dependent of god, who alone is truly competent. Second, this awareness makes us want constantly to learn more and grow more. I believe a truly good leader knows that they only know what they know, and are constantly seeking to learn from anyone and everyone. A bad leader is one who thinks he knows everything and believes he knows better than anyone and everyone.
                   “Once you stop learning you start dying” ― Albert Einstein
The biblical metaphor of a shepherd, made most powerfully in the revelation of Jesus Christ as the Good Shepherd, redefines leadership in a biblical frame, in contrast to the potentates of the ancient Near East or the emperors of the Roman Empire.

Reverend Peter A. Lillback’s book, “Saint Peter’s Principles” highlights the juxtaposition in this work of the book on secular leaders entitled “The Peter Principle, by Dr. Laurance Peter. Peter the apostle had his own set of leadership principles, which was recognized by Jesus.

Jesus asked his disciples, “Who do you say that I am?’ Simon Peter answered, ‘You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.’ And Jesus answered him, ‘Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah! For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my Father in heaven. And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not prevail against it. I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.’ – Matthew 16:15-19.

Immediately after this announcement, Peter proved his authentic leadership…

Jesus began to show his disciples that he must go to Jerusalem and undergo great suffering at the hands of the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and on the third day be raised. And Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him, saying, ‘God forbid it, Lord! This must never happen to you.’ But Jesus turned and said to Peter, ‘Get behind me, Satan! You are a stumbling-block to me; for you are setting your mind not on divine things but on human things.’ – Matthew 16:21-23

During these five weeks we will look closely at Peter’s first letter providing an overview of his leadership principles. Each week will include a spiritual exercise and an opportunity to reflect on your leadership principles.

For just as Martin Luther’s doctrine of the universal priesthood of all believers which gave laypersons and the clergy equal rights and responsibilities. So too is everyone a leader. Some are more passive and behind the scenes, but a leader just the same as those more active and upfront. Saint Paul’s image of the Body of Christ demonstrates that all parts are needed.

Thank you each for your leadership here at St. Luke’s together living out our mission as a welcoming and growing community of faith, busy making Christ known to the world.

Yours in Christ,
Rob Norris-Weber, Pastor

If interested here is the link to purchase the book through Amazon. Remember to join the St. Luke’s SMILE program with Amazon: "St. Peter's Principles"