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Happenings and Messages from Grace Lutheran Church!
This is a quick weekly reminder of what is happening at Grace in worship
and in ways to connect and serve.
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Sunday Worship Times
8:30am Contemporary
10:15am Contemporary
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Wednesday Worship Time
7:00pm Contemporary
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All are welcome here – a familiar phrase we see on the sign outside the church, bulletins, Grace at a Glance and the home page of the website. Just about a year ago, a team formed that is now named DEIA: Building Belonging. Our mission is to continuously seek ways to journey together toward a church where all have a rightful presence, allowing everyone to flourish, and be seen as beloved children of God.
While we were writing our mission statement, we relied heavily on the stated values for Grace to guide our work. These values were originally written a little over six years ago. As we discussed, debated and learned from each other, and those in the congregation, we realized that the “Accept Everyone” section of our Values had potential to be more inclusive. Terminology that is used now did not exist or was not common six years ago. We also believe the “this or that” statements could be perceived as polarizing, and there is room for middle ground. Based on this, the team has a proposal for updated language.
Accept Everyone
You are welcomed to express your true self, with the assurance that everyone else is encouraged to do the same. We honor and celebrate the diversity of God’s creation: all races, cultures, sexual orientations, gender identities and expressions; all ages, abilities, relationship statuses, family structures, levels of education, political views, and economic statuses. This diversity fosters growth and learning in our relationships with God and with one another. We believe each person is made in the image of God and brings a unique perspective and voice to our community. No matter where you are in your faith, your struggles, or your story, you belong here.
If you would like to compare this to the original language, it can be found on the website (About Us > I’m New > Values). This proposal has also been shared with the Vision Board for approval and their input has been incorporated. They will vote on the change at their November meeting – 11/17. The Vision Board and DEIA: Building Belonging team welcome discussion, questions and feedback on the proposal. Please reach out to any of us with your thoughts.
Thank you,
Building Belonging (DEIA) Team
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A huge THANK YOU to everyone who gave their time, energy, and support to make this project happen! Because of your generosity and dedication, our roof is ready to protect us for many years to come—with fewer worries about leaks and repairs!
What an amazing accomplishment for our Grace family! Thank you for coming together and making this possible. YOU are what makes Grace so special!
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Help make Election Day a little brighter by welcoming voters to our building!
Volunteers are needed to greet voters, point them toward the polling place, and show them where the restrooms are located.
It’s easy, meaningful, and just a 2-hour shift! Your friendly smile can make someone feel right at home.
Can you lend a hand? We’d love to have you join us!
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Our Somali neighbors are facing increased threats following recent hateful comments. Now is a time for Minnesotans to stand together and show love for our neighbors.
Join others at local mosques during Friday prayers on October 16, 23, and 30, from 12–2:30pm Show solidarity, offer a warm welcome, and help our Somali neighbors feel safe and supported.
Bring a friend and a “Minnesotans Stand Together” sign. After prayers, enjoy sambusas and tea, connect with neighbors, and go early vote together. Let’s show up for one another!
| | | Come alongside all who are ill or struggling especially: | Jodi Montavon, Sue Melody, Graisyn Moyes, Walter Stanley, Lynda Leonard, Lynn Zirkle, Lisa Broderick, Karen Swedberg, Wayne Welle, Thomas Zupon, Dick Thompson, Everly, Tammy Zupon, Peggy Maus, Anne Marie Johnson, Daniel and Adrian Henry Johnson, John Malecha, Samuel Brasgalla, Kim Burnham, Mary Timm, Barb Keller, Vernetta Pahl, and the Breyette Family. | | Continued prayers for those with chronic conditions: | Jerry Deboer, Coni Winterfeld, Kyle Quick, Pat Walters, Rollie Ysbrand (pronounced eyes brand), Eli, Duane Flemming, Rick Burnham, Alden & Judy Riley, Shirley Kirkendall, Teri Beckers, Alex Bombard, Juleen Klawiter, Colleen Wernimont, Lola Money, Bev Scott, and Carlos Fernandez. | | Pray for those who are grieving especially: | | The family & friends of Diana Heyer and Hayley Seide and family mourning the death of her grandmother Edna. | | | | |
