St. Luke's Stories and Greetings
1. Mick and Mary Jean Thorsland
Mary Jean and I have been members of St Luke's for about 44 years. In our first 5 years we were blessed with 3 beautiful daughters who were all baptized and confirmed at St. Luke's. Having 3 young daughters, we remember how great it was to have a well- staffed nursery so we could worship. We have many memories of the girls going to Sunday School, Vacation Bible School, choir, choir trips, church camp, ski trips and Appalachian trips. We have been active in many committees, programs and activities and both have served on the Church Council. St Luke's is not only a place of worship, but it is our faith community that we know will always be there no matter what's happening elsewhere.
St Luke's has been here making Christ known for almost 100 years! This is an impressive history but it doesn't end now. We need to set the frame work for us to continue for another 100 years. This takes all of us contributing time, talent and money.
That's what our 100% for 100 years is all about. If we all do our part, our goals can be reached.
Giving is never easy, but it is necessary for our congregation to continue making Christ known in our community. In the past Mary Jean and I have been giving a weekly amount to the operating account and an annual stock gift to the capital account. If you are fortunate enough to have stocks that have significant gains, this is a great way to give to the Church rather than the government. Since we're of the age where we have to take IRA distributions, we will utilize those funds as well, to be directed to the Church rather than the government.
We are truly glad that we joined St Luke's 44 years ago. We made a commitment then, and over the years we have made many good friends and experienced wonderful opportunities with them. This is our home! St. Luke's has had its ups and downs and it's challenges, but we have weathered them all. If we all stick together we can overcome anything that comes our way. We are a faith community that we're confident will prevail for the next 100 years!!
Mick and Mary Jean Thorsland
St Luke's has been here making Christ known for almost 100 years! This is an impressive history but it doesn't end now. We need to set the frame work for us to continue for another 100 years. This takes all of us contributing time, talent and money.
That's what our 100% for 100 years is all about. If we all do our part, our goals can be reached.
Giving is never easy, but it is necessary for our congregation to continue making Christ known in our community. In the past Mary Jean and I have been giving a weekly amount to the operating account and an annual stock gift to the capital account. If you are fortunate enough to have stocks that have significant gains, this is a great way to give to the Church rather than the government. Since we're of the age where we have to take IRA distributions, we will utilize those funds as well, to be directed to the Church rather than the government.
We are truly glad that we joined St Luke's 44 years ago. We made a commitment then, and over the years we have made many good friends and experienced wonderful opportunities with them. This is our home! St. Luke's has had its ups and downs and it's challenges, but we have weathered them all. If we all stick together we can overcome anything that comes our way. We are a faith community that we're confident will prevail for the next 100 years!!
Mick and Mary Jean Thorsland
2. Margaret Dahl
Ephesians 5:1-3, 20 "Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved Children, and live in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God and giving thanks to God the Father at all times and for everything in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ."
For forty years I have been a part of St. Luke's Community of Faith It has been a highlight of my faith journey and I thank God every day for St. Luke's and all who have been a part of my life story & spiritual growth. Prior to joining I already had good friends here and I immediately became involved in its ministry all of which contributed to my spiritual growth. In the last twenty years, however, the focus has been on Card Ministry and Care Team which has been a special blessing and very rewarding.
In its 97 years St Luke's has been faithful in making Christ known, touched thousands of lives and assisted many believers in their faith journey. Now we must plan for another 100 years of ministry--desperately needed in today's world. As a tither I have been richly blessed for making that decision (with my husband) 65 years ago. Stewardship sermons are preached every year and we need to hear them and continue to be be reminded of how generous our God is. I like a favorite pastor's slogan, "Give until it feels good". It is always a privilege to thank God with giving and praying is always helpful and also a privilege.
Enjoy each day, it is a special gift from God.
Agape', Margaret Dahl
For forty years I have been a part of St. Luke's Community of Faith It has been a highlight of my faith journey and I thank God every day for St. Luke's and all who have been a part of my life story & spiritual growth. Prior to joining I already had good friends here and I immediately became involved in its ministry all of which contributed to my spiritual growth. In the last twenty years, however, the focus has been on Card Ministry and Care Team which has been a special blessing and very rewarding.
In its 97 years St Luke's has been faithful in making Christ known, touched thousands of lives and assisted many believers in their faith journey. Now we must plan for another 100 years of ministry--desperately needed in today's world. As a tither I have been richly blessed for making that decision (with my husband) 65 years ago. Stewardship sermons are preached every year and we need to hear them and continue to be be reminded of how generous our God is. I like a favorite pastor's slogan, "Give until it feels good". It is always a privilege to thank God with giving and praying is always helpful and also a privilege.
Enjoy each day, it is a special gift from God.
Agape', Margaret Dahl
3. Phyllis Kilmer
My name is Phyllis Kilmer and I've been a member at St. Lukes about 42 years. My children, Chad and Stephanie, were 2 & 4 yrs old when we joined. I'm very thankful my children were able to grow up in a loving, vibrant church family, actively involved in all that was offered to them as they grew. I feel so loved when I step into our building and surround myself with all of you; or, lately, as I drive into the parking lot for Drive-In church.
My story today is about future giving.
Giving can be done in many different ways; our offerings, our time/ talents and planned LEGACY giving. I hadn't really thought about LEGACY giving much until 2018 when my former husband died unexpectedly and my kids had to deal with all the funeral details etc. in the midst of going through the grieving process.
Not wanting Stephanie and Chad to go through that trauma again, I soon after made an appointment with an attorney to set up my estate plan. We decided a trust would be best and in setting up that trust I made a Charitable Bequest (LEGACY) that designates a percentage of my estate go to St. Lukes. I did this joyfully now while alive because I have been richly blessed by God and this church community and I'm very thankful for all the opportunities my children and I had while growing closer to the Lord in his house. There are also other ways to leave LEGACY gifts to SLLC too, such as stocks, bonds or real estate.
While our Capital Appeal Drive is going on I will also be making an IRA Charitable Rollover that allows my RMD to be transferred tax-free directly from my IRA account to St. Luke's for the next 3 years. This, too, could be done as a LEGACY gift after I'm gone but I'm using it for the Capital Appeal now.
1 Peter 4:10 "Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God's grace in it's various forms."
Blessed beyond measure,
Phyllis Kilmer
My story today is about future giving.
Giving can be done in many different ways; our offerings, our time/ talents and planned LEGACY giving. I hadn't really thought about LEGACY giving much until 2018 when my former husband died unexpectedly and my kids had to deal with all the funeral details etc. in the midst of going through the grieving process.
Not wanting Stephanie and Chad to go through that trauma again, I soon after made an appointment with an attorney to set up my estate plan. We decided a trust would be best and in setting up that trust I made a Charitable Bequest (LEGACY) that designates a percentage of my estate go to St. Lukes. I did this joyfully now while alive because I have been richly blessed by God and this church community and I'm very thankful for all the opportunities my children and I had while growing closer to the Lord in his house. There are also other ways to leave LEGACY gifts to SLLC too, such as stocks, bonds or real estate.
While our Capital Appeal Drive is going on I will also be making an IRA Charitable Rollover that allows my RMD to be transferred tax-free directly from my IRA account to St. Luke's for the next 3 years. This, too, could be done as a LEGACY gift after I'm gone but I'm using it for the Capital Appeal now.
1 Peter 4:10 "Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God's grace in it's various forms."
Blessed beyond measure,
Phyllis Kilmer
4. Bev Brosam
If you caught St. Luke’s online 8:30 AM worship, October 4, on Facebook or You Tube, you may have heard my sisters, Lori Brosam, Jan Solmonson, and me singing one of our favorite hymns, “Count Your Blessings”. When I think about it, the song really typifies how my parents lived their lives, and how I aspire to live my own. I was raised in a large family of modest means; my parents never had a savings account until we started one on their 40th wedding anniversary, but it seemed my folks always found a way to share the blessings that they had with others. My parents both worked full-time, but we lived on a farm in West Bloomington where my Mom had a large garden and my Dad raised cattle for the missions. The welcome mat was always out to friends, family, and often to acquaintances who needed somewhere to stay, help getting a job, or a seat at the family dinner table on a holiday.
Like many people, I’ve lived paycheck to paycheck for most of my adult life; praying that no catastrophic expense should befall me. While I didn’t have a lot of money to give, I always wanted to give back and help others. I realized that my value was not just in the money I had to share, but that I was a gift; a blessing which I could give to others. I could share my gift of music - I am a member of St. Luke’s Senior Choir, and throughout my lifetime I’ve sung with my siblings at many churches as well as for the residents at the Masonic Home where my parents worked. I have feet to walk and hands to work: I’ve walked and raised funds for cancer; wrapped Christmas presents for residents at Tubman shelter; made banners and signs for church and events; hand crafted greeting cards for nursing homes and St. Luke’s; delivered Meals on Wheels; helped prepare and serve Loaves and Fishes and Oasis for Youth’s July Birthday dinner. I’ve rung Salvation Army bells and organized my coworkers to sort Shoebox gifts.
Most recently, I’ve reached out to friends, relatives and acquaintances who are lonely or suffering from grief or depression; writing a note, lending an ear and offering the gift of friendship. Since the Covid lockdown, I’ve hosted Bingo in my driveway for my neighbors; some of whom are experiencing grief and loneliness.
The point of my message is not to laud or glorify all that I have done, but to make you aware of all that YOU can do - the opportunities are endless. YOU are the gift, and the more you give of yourself, the greater joy YOU will receive.
I am privileged to be a member of SLLC’s Missions team and it’s been a joy to see the generous hearts of the St. Luke’s congregation. We ask and you deliver! Boy do you deliver! During this season of stewardship for both our 2021 Annual Budget and the 100% for 100 Years Anniversary Capital Campaign, please prayerfully consider your opportunity to give generously, whether it be your time, money, prayers, or actions.
Blessings,
Bev Brosam
Like many people, I’ve lived paycheck to paycheck for most of my adult life; praying that no catastrophic expense should befall me. While I didn’t have a lot of money to give, I always wanted to give back and help others. I realized that my value was not just in the money I had to share, but that I was a gift; a blessing which I could give to others. I could share my gift of music - I am a member of St. Luke’s Senior Choir, and throughout my lifetime I’ve sung with my siblings at many churches as well as for the residents at the Masonic Home where my parents worked. I have feet to walk and hands to work: I’ve walked and raised funds for cancer; wrapped Christmas presents for residents at Tubman shelter; made banners and signs for church and events; hand crafted greeting cards for nursing homes and St. Luke’s; delivered Meals on Wheels; helped prepare and serve Loaves and Fishes and Oasis for Youth’s July Birthday dinner. I’ve rung Salvation Army bells and organized my coworkers to sort Shoebox gifts.
Most recently, I’ve reached out to friends, relatives and acquaintances who are lonely or suffering from grief or depression; writing a note, lending an ear and offering the gift of friendship. Since the Covid lockdown, I’ve hosted Bingo in my driveway for my neighbors; some of whom are experiencing grief and loneliness.
The point of my message is not to laud or glorify all that I have done, but to make you aware of all that YOU can do - the opportunities are endless. YOU are the gift, and the more you give of yourself, the greater joy YOU will receive.
I am privileged to be a member of SLLC’s Missions team and it’s been a joy to see the generous hearts of the St. Luke’s congregation. We ask and you deliver! Boy do you deliver! During this season of stewardship for both our 2021 Annual Budget and the 100% for 100 Years Anniversary Capital Campaign, please prayerfully consider your opportunity to give generously, whether it be your time, money, prayers, or actions.
Blessings,
Bev Brosam
5. Barb Roberts
So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness." Colossians 2:6-7
I wrote for this blog on September 15, that we would be re-starting our previously suspended capital appeal in conjunction with our fall stewardship appeal, both with the theme, "100% for 100 Years" and both a part of our stewardship.
What is stewardship? It is All that we do, with ALL that we have, ALL the time. In stewardship, we completely reorient our lives toward God who calls us and loves us through Jesus Christ. It is all that we do after we say, "I believe."
While financial goals have been set for both the annual and the capital appeals, a more important emphasis is 100% participation of all members in recognition of God naming us stewards of everything on earth, and that is a place of high esteem and honor. Our giving is a response to God's blessings.
Over the next five weeks, you will hear and see more information on this important appeal in a variety of ways - newsletters, worship, mailings - that will tell the story of St. Luke's ministry over the past 97 years and our hopes & dreams for the next 100 years. You will hear the message from the pulpit, read stories and view videos from fellow members who believe in the ministry of this church and why it is important to them. The appeal will culminate on Celebration Sunday, November 1, 2020.
You will be asked to prayerfully consider your response to support of our ministry and financial goals.
Barb Roberts - Stewardship
I wrote for this blog on September 15, that we would be re-starting our previously suspended capital appeal in conjunction with our fall stewardship appeal, both with the theme, "100% for 100 Years" and both a part of our stewardship.
What is stewardship? It is All that we do, with ALL that we have, ALL the time. In stewardship, we completely reorient our lives toward God who calls us and loves us through Jesus Christ. It is all that we do after we say, "I believe."
While financial goals have been set for both the annual and the capital appeals, a more important emphasis is 100% participation of all members in recognition of God naming us stewards of everything on earth, and that is a place of high esteem and honor. Our giving is a response to God's blessings.
Over the next five weeks, you will hear and see more information on this important appeal in a variety of ways - newsletters, worship, mailings - that will tell the story of St. Luke's ministry over the past 97 years and our hopes & dreams for the next 100 years. You will hear the message from the pulpit, read stories and view videos from fellow members who believe in the ministry of this church and why it is important to them. The appeal will culminate on Celebration Sunday, November 1, 2020.
You will be asked to prayerfully consider your response to support of our ministry and financial goals.
Barb Roberts - Stewardship
6. 100% For 100 Years
Picture the large oak tree growing just past our front door at church. It's been there for years and has withstood many seasons of snow, rain, and wind because of its deep root system. Like that tree, we are deeply rooted and growing in Christ. We bring glory to God through lives of gratitude.
We began laying plans for a capital appeal at St Luke's last winter with the theme "100% for 100 years" - suspended with the covid-19 pandemic. The time has come to restart that appeal in combination with our fall stewardship appeal. Again, we will use the theme, "100% for 100 years" and you will begin to hear and read more about the appeal in the next six weeks with celebration Sunday set for November 1st.
The following passage will be our Biblical foundation:
"So then just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness." Colossians 2:6-7
Our pastor and staff are aware and concerned that these are difficult times and, as a church, we want to support one another. Thank you to those who have contributed to the pastor's discretionary fund, and you are encouraged to contact Pastor Rob if in need.
Barb Roberts, Stewardship
We began laying plans for a capital appeal at St Luke's last winter with the theme "100% for 100 years" - suspended with the covid-19 pandemic. The time has come to restart that appeal in combination with our fall stewardship appeal. Again, we will use the theme, "100% for 100 years" and you will begin to hear and read more about the appeal in the next six weeks with celebration Sunday set for November 1st.
The following passage will be our Biblical foundation:
"So then just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness." Colossians 2:6-7
Our pastor and staff are aware and concerned that these are difficult times and, as a church, we want to support one another. Thank you to those who have contributed to the pastor's discretionary fund, and you are encouraged to contact Pastor Rob if in need.
Barb Roberts, Stewardship
7. Jim and Barb Roberts
Barb started off talking about how she got to St. Luke’s (married Jim, a long-time member and after a year, the pastor told her she should join as she was always there worshiping anyway. Their three boys were all raised in the church, got married here, had their children baptized here and are all still members here!
She also highlighted her role as Stewardship chair and as the stewardship representative to the 100% for 100 years capital campaign. She highlighted how St. Luke’s has stable leadership, a dedicated staff and committed volunteers. She mentioned that the church has one of the most desirable locations in Bloomington. The only missing piece is financial stability, and that is what this capital appeal is trying to help accomplish.
Barb shared, “We have stability in leadership, dedicated staff and committed volunteers. We have perhaps the best location in Bloomington. But the one piece still needed is financial stability.
For several years, we as the church have been able to able to act as good stewards of our resources, carefully managing the annual budget to make sure it is balanced. However, we have been unable to include facilities reserve and repair funds into our operating budget. Additionally, resource needs for outreach ministries have been unmet.”
She also highlighted her role as Stewardship chair and as the stewardship representative to the 100% for 100 years capital campaign. She highlighted how St. Luke’s has stable leadership, a dedicated staff and committed volunteers. She mentioned that the church has one of the most desirable locations in Bloomington. The only missing piece is financial stability, and that is what this capital appeal is trying to help accomplish.
Barb shared, “We have stability in leadership, dedicated staff and committed volunteers. We have perhaps the best location in Bloomington. But the one piece still needed is financial stability.
For several years, we as the church have been able to able to act as good stewards of our resources, carefully managing the annual budget to make sure it is balanced. However, we have been unable to include facilities reserve and repair funds into our operating budget. Additionally, resource needs for outreach ministries have been unmet.”
8. Molle Erickson
“As a leader in the congregation, I have had the privilege to serve as Past-President and a variety of Council roles, I’ve also taught Sunday School. I sing in the Choir. I taught Adult Ed. I’ve done a lot of things...
I’m standing before you today as Co-Chair to the Capital Campaign, 100% for 100 years. Our goal is to get 100% participation. We have a financial goal in mind but what we are really about is continuing our legacy. We are the oldest Lutheran Church in Bloomington, and want to be here another 100 years.
Question is, what is our legacy that we are leaving to the next generation? I was asked to be co-chair because I am part of this generational church. I joined St. Luke’s at 6 weeks old. This is my family where people have watched me grow up in faith. When things are rough and times get hard this is where I receive support. And when things are great this is where I want to share that with my friends here.
I’m blessed to be part of a five Generation Family here at St. Luke’s; with me being the fourth and my niece being the fifth.
Jim Roberts and I are Co-Chairing, representing two generations of our church. I’m really looking forward to seeing what we can do together as a church for the next generation and the next generation and the next.
Mollee Erickson
I’m standing before you today as Co-Chair to the Capital Campaign, 100% for 100 years. Our goal is to get 100% participation. We have a financial goal in mind but what we are really about is continuing our legacy. We are the oldest Lutheran Church in Bloomington, and want to be here another 100 years.
Question is, what is our legacy that we are leaving to the next generation? I was asked to be co-chair because I am part of this generational church. I joined St. Luke’s at 6 weeks old. This is my family where people have watched me grow up in faith. When things are rough and times get hard this is where I receive support. And when things are great this is where I want to share that with my friends here.
I’m blessed to be part of a five Generation Family here at St. Luke’s; with me being the fourth and my niece being the fifth.
Jim Roberts and I are Co-Chairing, representing two generations of our church. I’m really looking forward to seeing what we can do together as a church for the next generation and the next generation and the next.
Mollee Erickson
9. Way back when...
Pastor Richard H. Gerberding, St Luke’s founding and first pastor, wrote 50 years ago:
“I have many happy memories of my associations with these fine people. Several are connected with their cheerful assistance of getting me and my “flivver” out of snowbanks and mud holes in my calls and meetings. I almost got to look forward to such vicissitudes for the fun we had getting out of them. This was my first winter driving a car, and most of the roads then were unpaved and unplowed, much of it was a new experience. But the Oxboro people were good pals in every respect.”
“I have many happy memories of my associations with these fine people. Several are connected with their cheerful assistance of getting me and my “flivver” out of snowbanks and mud holes in my calls and meetings. I almost got to look forward to such vicissitudes for the fun we had getting out of them. This was my first winter driving a car, and most of the roads then were unpaved and unplowed, much of it was a new experience. But the Oxboro people were good pals in every respect.”
10. Way back when...
Olive Jacobson was among the handful of hardy, far-sighted people who organized St Luke's congregation February 18, 1923.
She became the congregation's first organist, a position she held for 24 years.
She helped organize the church's first women's organization and was elected it's first president.
She also helped organize the Sunday school and served as its superintendent a well as taught classes for many years.
She was quoted, "I enjoy ."the work of the church and will die with my boots on.
(Olive was member Dustin Jacobson's grandmother)
She became the congregation's first organist, a position she held for 24 years.
She helped organize the church's first women's organization and was elected it's first president.
She also helped organize the Sunday school and served as its superintendent a well as taught classes for many years.
She was quoted, "I enjoy ."the work of the church and will die with my boots on.
(Olive was member Dustin Jacobson's grandmother)
11. Way back when...
"For the following five years after organizing, St Luke's did not have a permanent home, but we had worship services in different places as they were available.One was a small clement block building which had been used as a butcher shop; then we met in a feed store on Lyndale and 94th, and after that, in the Bloomington Township Hall, which was located where the fire hall is now. It was so different from excavating nowadays when it's just a matter of a few hours and it's ready for footings. In those days all we had for excavating was a little scoop that held about 1/3 of a yard and was pulled by a team of horses. One man would drive the horses and another man would hold onto the handles of the scoop,hoping to get it filled without being pitched over onto the whiffle trees. It took several days to dig the church basement."
-Excerpt from a speech by charter member, Al Drangstveit, March 29, 1968,
St Luke's 45th anniversary
-Excerpt from a speech by charter member, Al Drangstveit, March 29, 1968,
St Luke's 45th anniversary
12. Way back when...
By 1927 the congregation had built and moved into its first building. The basement was the setting for the Sunday school classes where individual classes were separated by green burlap draperies - a visual barrier but no sound barrier. Under these conditions, one can imagine how noisy it must have become by the 1950s when the Sunday school had grown to over 300 students.By 1949 a second Sunday school hour was added, and in 1950s, a third hour. For a time, classes for the older students were held in the parsonage. By 1958 the new (and our current) education wing was built - a short term fix, however, as the Bloomington community was growing so fast, some Sunday school classes had to meet in the basement of the old church!
13. Altar Cloth
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Look for the altar cloth preserved and framed, hanging in the side hall just off the narthex - it is the altar cloth crocheted by charter member, Lena Hecker for the first Easter in the new church building (1927).
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14. Greetings from Pastor Mark Halvorson
Thanks for the invite to your 100th Anniversary celebration. I look forward to sharing the experience with you.
I served five congregations over the course of my ministry. St Luke’s was number three, right in the middle. It was a big step for me and gave me my first opportunity to lead a large, dynamic congregation. There were challenges as well as awesome experiences. I love being surrounded by a fine staff and many strong lay leaders.
I am in awe of St Luke’s moving into its second century of ministry. You have always been about relationships, knowing that together we have the great power and momentum as the people of God.
May you continue to thrive as you move into the next century of service.
Blessings, Pastor Mark Halvorson, Senior Pastor July 1989 – October 1998
I served five congregations over the course of my ministry. St Luke’s was number three, right in the middle. It was a big step for me and gave me my first opportunity to lead a large, dynamic congregation. There were challenges as well as awesome experiences. I love being surrounded by a fine staff and many strong lay leaders.
I am in awe of St Luke’s moving into its second century of ministry. You have always been about relationships, knowing that together we have the great power and momentum as the people of God.
May you continue to thrive as you move into the next century of service.
Blessings, Pastor Mark Halvorson, Senior Pastor July 1989 – October 1998
15. Greetings from Maureen Armstrong
"The Lord has done great things for us, we are filled with gladness and joy.” Psalm 126:3
Greetings to St Luke’s with this scripture that describes my years at St Luke’s. Along with my dear friend, colleague and predecessor, Marth Bolkcom, each new choir season began with these words in the choir anthem. Filled with gladness, joy, growth, and creativity, Michael and I are grateful for the many years, memories, and friendships we cherish from our time at St. Luke’s. We know and trust God will continue to do great things in this congregation and brightly light the path with gladness and joy.
Maureen Armstrong: Minister of Music and Worship 1979-99
Greetings to St Luke’s with this scripture that describes my years at St Luke’s. Along with my dear friend, colleague and predecessor, Marth Bolkcom, each new choir season began with these words in the choir anthem. Filled with gladness, joy, growth, and creativity, Michael and I are grateful for the many years, memories, and friendships we cherish from our time at St. Luke’s. We know and trust God will continue to do great things in this congregation and brightly light the path with gladness and joy.
Maureen Armstrong: Minister of Music and Worship 1979-99
16. Greetings from Tania Haber
Dear friends at St Luke’s,
It is with joy and thanksgiving that I remember my years as your Senior Pastor (end of 1999 to summer 2003). It was your courageous call committee that made me the first woman senior pastor in our synod, joining Pastor Mark Schoenhals on staff and then calling and ordaining (and marrying!) Pastor Karen Stevenson. I look back at a bold and capable staff and leadership – going to Saddleback Church in CA with a group, including our new music staff, John Helgen and Pat Shelby, and returning to clarify our vision and having renewed energy to reach our community and wonder about the future of the LSS Group Home on our property. Our daughters, Ali (now a pastor in Brooklyn Center) and Sophie (a teacher in San Francisco), have wonderful memories of the children’s ministry and musicals at St Luke’s, and we all remain grateful for your accepting and gracious presence. You are a bold and faithful congregation and my prayers remain with you all as you move forward into this next century! (I am very disappointed to miss the celebrations, but Bob and I will be on a trip with seminary friends going from Seattle up to Vancouver. I send my love and wishes for a fun weekend!)
Pastor Tania Haber: Sr Pastor December 1999 - July 2003
It is with joy and thanksgiving that I remember my years as your Senior Pastor (end of 1999 to summer 2003). It was your courageous call committee that made me the first woman senior pastor in our synod, joining Pastor Mark Schoenhals on staff and then calling and ordaining (and marrying!) Pastor Karen Stevenson. I look back at a bold and capable staff and leadership – going to Saddleback Church in CA with a group, including our new music staff, John Helgen and Pat Shelby, and returning to clarify our vision and having renewed energy to reach our community and wonder about the future of the LSS Group Home on our property. Our daughters, Ali (now a pastor in Brooklyn Center) and Sophie (a teacher in San Francisco), have wonderful memories of the children’s ministry and musicals at St Luke’s, and we all remain grateful for your accepting and gracious presence. You are a bold and faithful congregation and my prayers remain with you all as you move forward into this next century! (I am very disappointed to miss the celebrations, but Bob and I will be on a trip with seminary friends going from Seattle up to Vancouver. I send my love and wishes for a fun weekend!)
Pastor Tania Haber: Sr Pastor December 1999 - July 2003
17. Greetings from Rev. John Weisenbuger
Dear St Luke's,
I am delighted to see you celebrating 100 years of ministry in Bloomington. St Luke's was my first call congregation in 1995. I was with you for three years, but the richness of my time there makes it seem like it was much longer. I cut my teeth as a pastor as I worked with the Youth and Family ministry there. Lori and I were just a few years into marriage and our son, Joshua, was baptized at St Luke's. I remember he was one of five baptisms that day! And it was almost 100 degrees outside with no air conditioning. It was quite the day!
St Luke's had a very dynamic youth program and worship in my time there. I am forever thankful that it was my first call. My favorite memories are working with the youth staff and their families; worship with Maureen Armstrong and all the amazing musicians; Pat Derry and the children's ministry; retreats and mission trips with all the kids. And I would add a word of thanks for all the St Luke's pastors who put up with this "kid" as he figured out what it meant to be a "pastor" - Mark Havorson, Milo Englestad, Karen Stevensen, and Melanie McRae.
Over the years, our family grew to three children - Joshua is 27, Anna is 24, and Lydia is 22. I have served calls at Trinity in Owatonna, St John's in Kasson, and Our Savior's in Owatonna, but there is a warm place in my heart for St Luke's and all of the wonderful people I came to love in that place. May God continue to bless the life and ministry of St Luke's Lutheran Church.
In Christ,
Rev. John Weisenburger: Youth & Family Pastor August 1995 - July1998
I am delighted to see you celebrating 100 years of ministry in Bloomington. St Luke's was my first call congregation in 1995. I was with you for three years, but the richness of my time there makes it seem like it was much longer. I cut my teeth as a pastor as I worked with the Youth and Family ministry there. Lori and I were just a few years into marriage and our son, Joshua, was baptized at St Luke's. I remember he was one of five baptisms that day! And it was almost 100 degrees outside with no air conditioning. It was quite the day!
St Luke's had a very dynamic youth program and worship in my time there. I am forever thankful that it was my first call. My favorite memories are working with the youth staff and their families; worship with Maureen Armstrong and all the amazing musicians; Pat Derry and the children's ministry; retreats and mission trips with all the kids. And I would add a word of thanks for all the St Luke's pastors who put up with this "kid" as he figured out what it meant to be a "pastor" - Mark Havorson, Milo Englestad, Karen Stevensen, and Melanie McRae.
Over the years, our family grew to three children - Joshua is 27, Anna is 24, and Lydia is 22. I have served calls at Trinity in Owatonna, St John's in Kasson, and Our Savior's in Owatonna, but there is a warm place in my heart for St Luke's and all of the wonderful people I came to love in that place. May God continue to bless the life and ministry of St Luke's Lutheran Church.
In Christ,
Rev. John Weisenburger: Youth & Family Pastor August 1995 - July1998
18. Greetings from Tawny Homesley
Congratulations on 100 years of ministry! You have a rich history of loving and serving in Bloomington and beyond. I am grateful to have been part of that history! It is a joy to return with my family for this special celebration. We join you in giving thanks for the past, offering gratitude for the present, and anticipating all that is to come.
19. Greetings from Pat Derry
Christian Education Director February 1994 –June 2004
Congratulations, dear people of St Luke’s! For a century you have been a community of grace, shining the light of God into Bloomington and beyond. May the spirit of God embolden your joy, hope, faith, and love as you continue your missions in a new century.
Congratulations, dear people of St Luke’s! For a century you have been a community of grace, shining the light of God into Bloomington and beyond. May the spirit of God embolden your joy, hope, faith, and love as you continue your missions in a new century.