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A Message from Pastor Dale
Yesterday, Pastor Carrie, Morgan (our Discovery Center Site Director), Melissa, Janet Miller (LADC’s Executive Director), and I met for our regularly scheduled partnership meeting. Part of our time together was spent planning our upcoming Fall Festival, which will be held Wednesday, October 8, from 5:00–7:00 p.m. outside in front of the amphitheater. Mark your calendars and plan to join us for an evening of fun, fellowship, and fall celebration!
Our conversation also turned to a much more serious topic, as Janet shared in more detail about the tragic Annunciation Catholic Church and School shooting that took place one month ago tomorrow, on August 27. She explained how it specifically affected Annunciation's Discovery Center site and staff. It was horrific what happened, and even more sobering to hear what could have happened as the shooter breached the Discovery Center entrance just moments before law enforcement arrived and the shooter took her own life.
Since the tragedy, First Lady Gwen Walz, the Governor's Children's Cabinet Director Jenny Moses, and the Crime Victim Research & Policy Institute Director Krista Flannigan (from the Department of Justice) have personally reached out to Janet, informing her of grant funds available for relocation of the Annunciation Discovery Center site, mental health services for staff, students and families and for installation of and increased security systems at each of LADC’s eighteen sites. Janet is now assessing needs at every location, including ours.
This conversation affirmed an important decision recently made on your behalf by our Church Council. The day after the Annunciation tragedy, one of our members asked me what safety procedures, policies, or protocols our congregation has in place for events such as an active threat, a medical emergency, or a natural disaster. Other than our designated shelters for severe weather, and our AED for use in medical emergencies, the answer is that we currently have no formal plan, procedures, or policies in place. The shared concern was brought to our September Church Council meeting for consideration.
Recognizing the unfortunate need for such preparation, our Church Council has unanimously approved the creation of a St. Paul Lutheran Safety Team. This team will include parish nurses, trained first responders, and any members with valuable skills or experience in safety, security, or emergency response. Their first tasks will be to conduct a safety audit to identify basic needs, accessibility issues, and necessary repairs or upgrades, and then to develop policies and procedures for a range of potential emergencies.
If you feel called to serve in this important ministry, please contact me directly. Once the Safety Team identifies our needs, Janet has encouraged us to share them with LADC so we can potentially access state grant funding for improvements.
In addition, LADC has invited us to continue supporting Annunciation Catholic Church and School as they begin their long journey of healing. While the headlines may fade, their pain remains. As people of faith, we know that we cannot walk through darkness without the light of Christ. Please keep Annunciation’s community in your prayers.
As a visible sign of solidarity, LADC has purchased yard signs of support that will soon be placed near our Discovery Center and church parking lot entrances. May these signs remind us to pray for all who suffer and to trust in God who promises peace.
See You In Church! (and bring a friend!)
Pastor Dale
| | The September 2025 Church Council Minutes are available here, on our website, and in the council book in the library. | | Do you love to sing? We invite you to consider joining the St. Paul Choir this year! Choir practice begins Sunday, October 5, at 6:00 p.m. in the sanctuary, and will continue on Sunday evenings throughout the year. No matter your experience level, your voice is welcome. For more information, please contact our choir director, Fritz Wheatley. Come share your gift of music and be part of this meaningful ministry! | |
Little Seeds. Lasting Change.
Which public lands have you enjoyed?
- National Parks
- National Forests
- National Riverways
- State Parks
More than 150 years ago, the U.S. government began setting aside public land to protect scenery and wildlife for future generations. Yellowstone became the world’s first national park, and many others followed.
Today, these treasured places face serious challenges:
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Fewer staff, more visitors: Between 2010 and late 2024, the National Park Service lost 20% of its workforce, even as visitation rose to a record 332 million people each year.
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Wildlife refuges stretched thin: Staffing at national wildlife refuges, managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, dropped by 30% during the same period.
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Ongoing work, shrinking resources: Protecting wildlife, reducing wildfire risk, and controlling invasive species all require constant effort. Deep funding cuts make this work harder.
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Impact on communities: National parks and refuges generate billions of dollars each year for nearby communities. Reduced monitoring and management put those benefits at risk.
What can we do?
- Remember and give thanks for the gift of public lands.
- Support these lands through your visits, volunteer work, and donations.
- Urge lawmakers to restore funding and protect these treasures for generations to come.
-Written by Laura Raedeke, EcoFaith Network
Find out more about this partnership between NE-MN Synod and Saint Paul Area Synod.
| | FAITH FORMATION AT THE TABLE | | |
Come to The Table! Each Wednesday evening begins at 5:45 p.m. with a shared meal, followed by worship and intergenerational learning around the table. Together we’ll eat, sing, and grow in faith, just as Jesus often did around the table with his followers. From 7:00–7:30 p.m., children, youth, and adults will gather in age-specific groups: The Kids’ Table (up to 3rd grade), SPLASH (4th–6th grade), Mindfulness with Jesus (7th–12th grade), and Adult Study.
Families may register children online through our church website or by contacting Pr. Carrie or the church office directly. Contact Pr. Carrie with any questions, and join us as we grow together in faith this year at The Table!
| | SAVE THE DATE - LUCAS CARLSON ORDINATION | | We are excited for the upcoming Ordination Service for a son of our congregation, Lucas Carlson (parents Sheila and Mick Byl, grandparents Karen and Jim Carlson). Lucas grew up among us here at St. Paul Lutheran and is now being ordained as a Minister of Word and Sacrament in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. He has accepted a call to serve as pastor at West Immanuel Lutheran Church in Osceola, WI. His ordination will take place here at St. Paul Lutheran on Saturday, October 18 at 3:00 p.m. This will be a day of celebration for Lucas, his family, our congregation, and the wider church. Please mark your calendars and plan to join us as we gather in worship and thanksgiving for God’s call in Lucas’ life! | | |
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, October 12 – Word and Sacrament - God meets us in the living Word and in the sacraments of Baptism and Holy Communion, giving us faith and life.
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Sunday, November 9 – Faith and Doubt - Faith is not the absence of doubt, but trusting God’s promises even when questions remain.
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Sunday, January 11 – Saints and Sinners - As Lutherans we confess we are both saints and sinners, redeemed by Christ, yet still in need of daily forgiveness.
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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.
| | A new Men’s Group for learning, fellowship, and service will begin with its first gathering THIS Saturday, September 27 at 9:00 a.m. We’ll start with coffee, treats, a short devotion, and prayer. Then, we’ll spend time identifying and prioritizing small projects around the church building and grounds, things like roof cleaning, landscaping, yard work, and other maintenance needs. This is a great opportunity to enjoy fellowship, lend a hand, and serve together. At this first meeting we’ll also decide on a group name and how often to gather in the future. All men are welcome to join. Bring your ideas, your willingness to pitch in, and maybe a friend! For more information, talk with Pastor Dale, Myron Carpenter, or Steve Greseth. | | MomCo: AN OPPORTUNITY FOR MOMS | | |
MomCo is a space for encouragement, connection, and fellowship as we navigate the joys and challenges of motherhood and faith together. You do not need to be a member of St. Paul Lutheran to join, so invite a friend!
Gatherings will take place on the second and fourth Thursday evenings this fall from 6:30—8:00 p.m. To learn more or express interest, please contact Lindsey at johnson.lindseyrose@gmail.com or Pastor Carrie.
| | NEW MINISTRY TEAMS FORMING SOON! | | |
We are excited to be forming two new ministry teams as part of our 2025 Strategic Ministry and Mission goals!
Hospitality Team – Gathering on Sunday, October 5, after worship, to plan intentional ways of welcoming and connecting with others. Contact Christina Fashner or Arlie Post for details.
Congregational Care Team – First meeting on Sunday, October 19 after worship in the church library, focusing on strengthening how we care for one another as a church family. Contact Kimberly Bahls or Carole England for details.
All are welcome to join these important conversations as we grow together in hospitality, care, and service!
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Save the date for our upcoming Fall Festival on Wednesday, October 8, from 5:00–7:00 p.m.
This event, held in partnership with our Discovery Center staff and families, will include fun fall games, pumpkin painting, supper, and crafts for all ages to enjoy.
It will all take place outdoors in front of our amphitheater!
We hope you’ll join us. If you would like to help with any of the planning, please speak with Pastor Carrie.
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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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Dialysis
Healthy kidneys filter waste products, excess fluids, and toxins from the bloodstream, which are then excreted as urine. When kidneys fail due to injury, disease, or chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension, harmful substances build up in the body, leading to severe health complications. Dialysis is a medical procedure that serves as an artificial replacement for lost kidney function in people with kidney failure, also known as end-stage renal disease (ESRD).
There are two main types of dialysis: hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis.
- Hemodialysis uses a machine and a special filter called a dialyzer to clean the blood. The patient's blood is drawn from the body, passed through the dialyzer, and then returned. This process typically takes place in a dialysis center three times a week, with each session lasting three to five hours. Hemodialysis requires a surgically created access, such as a fistula or graft, for blood to flow to and from the machine. Healthcare professionals monitor blood pressure, fluid levels, and electrolytes during treatment. Hemodialysis is effective and widely available, but it can be time-consuming and may cause fatigue or other side effects.
- Peritoneal dialysis uses the lining of the abdomen (the peritoneum) as a natural filter. A cleansing fluid called dialysate is introduced into the abdominal cavity via a catheter, absorbs waste products, and is later drained out. This method is often performed at home and can be continuous or intermittent. This type of dialysis offers flexibility and autonomy, allowing patients to fit treatments into daily life, but it includes potential for infection (peritonitis) and catheter complications.
While dialysis is lifesaving, it is not a cure for kidney failure. Long-term dialysis can lead to complications such as low blood pressure, infections, anemia, bone disease, and cardiovascular issues. Early recognition and management of these risks are crucial for maintaining quality of life.
Adapting to dialysis involves physical, emotional, and lifestyle adjustments. Patients must adhere to treatment schedules, dietary restrictions (such as limiting sodium, potassium, and fluids), and medication regimens. Regular follow-up with healthcare providers is essential to monitor health status and address complications.
We are blessed to have knowledgeable, caring nurses in our congregation.
If you have questions for Joanna or Jaime, please call the church office at 651-462-5212.
| | "FROM MORTGAGE TO MISSION!" | | | | |
We’ve received $84,810 toward our $100,000 goal to pay off our mortgage in 2025. We are 85% of the way there with only $15,000 remaining!
Together we’ve achieved remarkable financial milestones, and now we’re closer than ever to a future free from debt. Imagine the freedom to invest more fully in ministry, staff, facilities, and sharing Christ’s love for generations to come.
Join us in making this vision a reality! This chart can help you prayerfully consider your level of support. Thank you!
Click the button below to give online or view our giving chart.
Thank you for your faithful support as together we move from Mortgage to Mission in order to live out our mission of Sharing Christ’s Love with Joy.
| | H.E.A.L @ S.P.L.C. - A GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP | | |
H.E.A.L. (Hope and Encouragement After Loss) is an ongoing grief support group at St. Paul Lutheran Church.
This group is for anyone navigating the challenges of loss, offering a safe space for compassion, support, and unconditional acceptance. Whether your loss is recent or in the past, you are welcome to join us as we journey together toward healing.
The H.E.A.L. group meets the second Thursday of the month at 6:00 p.m.
We look forward to walking this path of hope and encouragement with you.
Find out more.
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Our "Bridge the Gap: Two Years of Renewed Mission & Ministry" appeal and learning series is underway!
We've made incredible progress over the past three years and are moving steadily out of redevelopment. But we need your help to complete the journey! Our four key goals are to:
1️⃣ Increase membership by 30% (Our new member group on April 27 will put us over our goal—a full five months ahead of schedule!)
2️⃣ Boost general fund offerings by 5% (We did it!)
3️⃣ Match our generous anonymous gift of $30K (We did it nine months early!)
4️⃣ Achieve debt freedom with mortgage payoff (To pay off by end of 2025. We're 85% there!)
Join us in helping Bridge the Gap at St. Paul Lutheran and be a part of our renewed mission and ministry!
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2025 Weekly
General Fund Offering Received
$150,384.70
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2025 Weekly
General Fund Offering
Budgeted
$182,964.69
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Over / (Under) Budgeted General Fund Offering
$(32,579.99)
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2025
Total Revenue Received
$218,579.65
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2025
Total Revenue Budgeted
$224,891.80
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Over / (Under) Budgeted Total Revenue Budgeted
$(6,312.15)
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Monthly Totals (as of 08/31/2025)
Total Expenses (before mortgage): $182,896
Total Expenses (after mortgage): $225,521
Net Revenue (after mortgage payment): $16,634
Mortgage Balance: $46,721
Edward Jones Balance: $54,761
The Total Revenue received includes ALL revenue received by SPLC.
General Fund Revenue is the portion of Total Revenue Received through
undesignated offerings from members and guests.
Please contact our Church Council Treasurer, Andy Buccanero or
our Bookkeeper, Chris Timmons, with any questions.
| | GIVE NOW! ELECTRONICALLY! | | Click the purple button to give now using our newly updated and improved electronic giving page, still powered by Vanco. You can set up a one time or recurring gift. Thank you! | | | |
Sunday, September 28
Worship, 9:00 a.m.
Bell Choir Rehearsal, 7:00 p.m.
Monday, September 29
Boy Scouts, 6:30 p.m.
Tuesday, September 30
Adult Bible Study, 1:00 p.m.
Cub Scouts, 6:00 p.m.
Wednesday, October 1
The Table, 5:45 p.m.
Sunday, October 5
Worship, 9:00 a.m.
Hospitality Team Meeting, 10:30 p.m.
Vocal Choir Rehearsal, 6:00 p.m.
Bell Choir Rehearsal, 7:00 p.m.
LOOKING AHEAD
October 8—Fall Festival!
October 12—ENGAGE: Lutheran! - Word and Sacrament
October 18—Lucas Carlson Ordination Service, 3:00 p.m.
October 26—Reformation Sunday & Bible Milestone
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St. Paul Lutheran Church
651-462-5212
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