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A Message from Pastor Carrie
The people who walked in darkness
have seen a great light;
those who lived in a land of deep darkness—
on them light has shined.
Isaiah 9:2
This is the verse that anchored us through Advent, just over a month ago. In the deep darkness of November and December, we looked to Isaiah to remind us of God’s promises to always be with us, even in the darkest of times.
Then, together we celebrated Christmas, God who came into the world in the form of a baby. Incarnate, God with us.
The month of January has been a hard one for us as Minnesotans. We have struggled with the darkness and the cold, in many more ways than we are used to this time of year. This darkness and cold is more than a warm drink, a cozy blanket, and a good book can improve. We have struggled with being at the center of the world’s focus, as Minnesota is watched while we handle the struggle around immigration issues.
No matter where we stand politically, it doesn’t change how the words of Jesus call us to see our neighbors: “Truly I tell you, just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family, you did it to me.” -Matthew 25:40
In my sermon last Sunday, I shared how Jesus calls us to action and to rest. In the calling of the disciples from Matthew 4, Peter, Andrew, James, and John all immediately got out of their fishing boats and left behind a difficult life in response to Jesus. Jesus then went about healing and teaching. How we take action as Christians today can look different for each person. It may be prayer, buying groceries, blowing whistles, leaving notes on the doors of closed businesses, or, as we did on Wednesday night at The Table, making cards that will be delivered with groceries to let our brothers and sisters in Christ know they are seen as children of God.
Jesus also knew the importance of rest and, multiple times in the Gospels, took time to get away from the crowds to pray and to rest. That we in America are not a culture that is very good at resting is not surprising news. Living in a consumerist economy, we value hard work and the social status of wealth, but that wasn’t the economy that Jesus valued. Don’t hear that hard work is a bad thing, Jesus did say to pay Caesar what was Caesar’s, and he certainly worked hard at his calling. But the economy of Jesus was centered on LOVE and seeing and loving those who would have been at the bottom of the social ladder.
This Lenten season, which begins with Ash Wednesday on February 18, we will take time to find ways to do what Jesus calls us to: Sabbath. The scriptures this Lenten season are ones that call us to wonder together how Jesus is calling us to rest. It is only with rest and time with the Holy Spirit that we can find real rest of body, mind, and spirit.
We are planning to create a daily devotional like we did a few years ago, with input from the congregation. We would love any sort of creative offering that could be part of this. It could be writing about a scripture, a meditation, a prayer, a poem, any sort of art or poetry, anything that would draw us in as a community.
Rest and action. Sabbath and service. We will lean into Jesus’ examples during Lent and discover together how we might be called this season to stop and listen.
See you in church! (and bring a friend!)
Pastor Carrie
| | LENT 2026 - SABBATH IS... | | |
“The whole earth is at rest, and is quiet: they break forth into singing.” — Isaiah 14:7
Lent is a season of reflection and renewal as the days lengthen and we prepare for Easter.
This year’s theme, “Sabbath Is …,” invites us to explore what it means to stop, rest, and make space for what matters most. Drawing on Scripture and the poetry of Wendell Berry, we will reflect on these weekly themes: Sabbath Is … Prayer, Quiet, Questions, Living Water, Healing, Lament, Praise, Service, and Joy.
Lent begins on Ash Wednesday, February 18. Midweek soup suppers will return, followed by Holden Evening Prayer. A sign-up sheet is in the narthex; two soup servers per week are needed. You are invited to contribute to our Lenten Devotional Booklet (available Sunday, February 15) with a reflection in any form, writing, poetry, artwork, or another creative expression that invites prayerful reflection. Please submit your devotion electronically (if possible) to Melissa in the church office by Wednesday, February 11.
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In an unsettled world, you are invited to a quiet, contemplative time of prayer and reflection.
We will gather one more Thursday night from 6:00 p.m.—7:00 p.m. on February 12 with scripture, music, candle lighting, prayer, and silence, making room for both lament and hope.
Whether you are carrying concern for the world or personal grief and uncertainty, you are encouraged to attend as able.
Come as you are.
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Come to The Table this Wednesday at 5:30 p.m.
We’ll begin with a shared meal and time for fellowship, followed by worship and intergenerational learning.
Children, youth, and adults will gather in age-specific groups.
All are welcome! Come as you are and pull up a chair at The Table.
| | ART AND CRAFT SUPPLY DRIVE | |
Art and Craft Supply Drive: A Way to Share Care and Compassion
Many of our neighbors are feeling uncertain and afraid right now, especially our immigrant brothers and sisters and people of color. This feels like an important moment to lean into compassion and to share tangible signs of care and solidarity. One meaningful way we can do that is through the healing power of creativity.
The Hallberg Center for the Arts is organizing an art and craft supply drive to support community members who could use encouragement and care right now. New or gently used art and craft supplies will be bundled into care packages and shared with trusted organizations that can safely distribute them to those in need.
Art has a special way of bringing people together, offering comfort in hard moments, and helping express feelings when words fall short. For people of all ages and abilities, making art can be calming, grounding, and deeply nourishing for the spirit.
Suggested donation items include: crayons, colored pencils, paper, coloring books, paint, canvases, pre-made craft kits, paintable ceramics, glue, scissors, markers, watercolors, beads, stickers, air-dry clay, and other art or craft supplies.
The Center is also collecting reusable shopping bags, tote bags, large Ziploc bags, or other containers to help package supplies. Monetary donations will also be accepted and will go directly toward this effort (via Venmo @Surelle-Strike or in-person donation jar). For transparency, all donations and receipts will be submitted to the Hallberg Center board of directors.
If you have questions, ideas, or would like to volunteer your time, you may contact Surelle Strike at surelle@wyomingcreativearts.org.
There are many ways to help in this season. This is one small, creative way to share Christ's love with solidarity and hope and with joy!
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West of 55—Join us on February 12, from 1:00-3:00 for a fun afternoon of Bingo and a white elephant prize exchange! We will also be enjoying a delicious dessert! Bring a wrapped white elephant gift (or place in a non see through bag) and be ready for laughter, friendly competition, and sweet treats! If you have any questions about the white elephant gift, please talk to Zella Oswald, Wendy Hazzard or Carole England.
| | WAPO SUMMER BIBLE CAMP REGISTRATION | | |
Summer Bible Camp at Lake Wapogasset (Amery, WI)
Our children and youth are invited to experience faith, fun, and friendship at Lake Wapogasset Lutheran Bible Camp this summer. The theme is "Wonder: With God All Things Are Possible."
Options include Wapo Seeds (Grades 1–3) for a short first camp experience, Wapo Youth Camp (Grades 4–9) for a classic week of worship, Bible study, and outdoor fun, and Roots @ Ox Lake (High School) focused on community, leadership, and adventure.
Multiple sessions are offered June–August.
Talk to Pastor Carrie about the best dates for your family, pricing, and registration.
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ENGAGE: Lutherans! A Monthly Worship & Learning Series
Six special Sundays during the school year have been planned, when worship will highlight what it means to be an E.L.C.A. Lutheran, followed by 30–45 minutes of learning for all ages.
The six core Lutheran themes that shape our faith and life together will explore a central “both/and” truth of our tradition.
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Sunday, February 15 – Cross and Resurrection - At the cross we see God’s love revealed in weakness, and in the resurrection we trust God’s promise of new life.
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Sunday, April 12 – Law and Gospel - God’s Word both convicts us in our sin (Law) and frees us with the promise of grace (Gospel).
After worship, groups will gather by age: Wild Faith for Littles (birth–5 and parents), Wild Explorers (K–4th grade), 5th–6th graders as helpers and leaders, and Confirmation Vitality (7th–9th grade).
Whether or not you can join Wednesday nights, ENGAGE is another great way on Sunday mornings for kids, youth, and parents to connect and grow in faith together.
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Our men’s group for learning, fellowship, and service meets again on Saturday, February 28 at 9:00 a.m.
We’ll start with coffee, treats, a short devotion, and prayer, followed by more hands-on work that can be on your own or together in groups.
This is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy fellowship, lend a hand, and serve together. All are welcome to join The 3G Crew!
For more information, talk with Pastor Dale, Myron Carpenter, or Steve Greseth.
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Our quilting and sewing group, the Humble Bees, meets on the second Monday of each month at 12:30 p.m. at church.
No experience is necessary, this is a wonderful opportunity to learn how to quilt or sew, share your skills, or simply enjoy time together in fellowship. Whether you’re an experienced quilter, a beginner, or just curious, you are invited to join the group. And bring a friend!
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Generational Trauma and Its Effect on Health
Understanding the Lasting Impact Across Generations
Generational trauma, also known as intergenerational or transgenerational trauma, refers to the psychological effects and patterns that are passed down from one generation to the next as a result of significant traumatic experiences. These experiences can include war, displacement, genocide, slavery, abuse, or systemic discrimination. The trauma does not end with those who directly experienced it; instead, it can shape the lives, behaviors, and health outcomes of their children and grandchildren, often in subtle and profound ways.
Research has shown that unresolved trauma can be transmitted through family dynamics, learned behaviors, and even biological mechanisms. For example, children growing up in households affected by unaddressed trauma may witness maladaptive coping strategies, such as substance abuse, emotional withdrawal, or heightened anxiety, which they then internalize and carry forward in their own lives. These learned responses can shape how they handle stress, form relationships, and perceive the world around them.
In addition to behavioral transmission, recent studies in the field of epigenetics suggest that trauma can alter gene expression, potentially predisposing subsequent generations to mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These biological changes do not alter the DNA sequence itself, but they can influence how genes are turned on or off, affecting how the body and mind respond to stress and adversity.
The effects of generational trauma on physical health are significant as well. Chronic stress resulting from trauma exposure can lead to increased inflammation, weakened immune function, and a higher risk of conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and autoimmune disorders. Children and grandchildren of those who experienced severe trauma may be at greater risk for these health issues, especially if the trauma remains unaddressed within the family or community context.
Addressing generational trauma requires both individual and collective action. On a personal level, therapy and counseling can help individuals process and heal from inherited patterns of pain. Family therapy can uncover and break cycles of trauma, fostering healthier communication and coping strategies. On a broader scale, community support, education, and culturally sensitive interventions are essential for helping groups impacted by historic injustices or collective trauma.
Understanding generational trauma is vital for healthcare professionals, educators, and policymakers. By recognizing its role in shaping health outcomes, we can better support those affected and implement strategies that promote healing and resilience. Breaking the cycle of trauma not only improves individual well-being but also creates healthier futures for generations to come.
We are blessed to have knowledgeable, caring nurses in our congregation. If you have any questions for Joanna or Jamie, call the church office at 651-462-5212.
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2026 Weekly
General Fund Offering Received
$18,399.66
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2026 Weekly
General Fund Offering
Budgeted
$17,677.48
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Over / (Under) Budgeted General Fund Offering
$722.18
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2026
Total Revenue Received
$22,544.41
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2026
Total Revenue Budgeted
$21,635.81
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Over / (Under) Budgeted Total Revenue Budgeted
$908.60
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Sunday, February 1
Worship, 9:00 a.m.
Vocal Choir Rehearsal, 6:00 p.m.
Bell Choir Rehearsal, 7:00 p.m.
Monday, February 2
Boy Scouts, 6:30 p.m.
Tuesday, February 3
Adult Bible Study, 1:00 p.m.
Cub Scouts, 6:00 p.m.
Wednesday, February 4
The Table, 5:30 p.m.
Sunday, February 8
Souperbowl Sunday
Welcome Guest Pastor, Emily Rova-Hegener
Worship, 9:00 a.m.
Bell Choir Rehearsal, 7:00 p.m.
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St. Paul Lutheran Church
651-462-5212
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