The Follower 2024

Dear Friends in Faith,

As the Advent season leads us into the warmth and wonder of Christmas, we gather not only to celebrate the birth of our Savior but also to partake in meaningful traditions that root us in faith and fellowship. The Lutheran tradition, with its rich heritage, offers unique ways to commemorate this joyous occasion. Let us delve into some cherished customs that make Lutheran Christmas celebrations unique and spiritually enriching.

Advent Wreath

The journey to Christmas in the Lutheran church begins with the Advent Wreath, a tradition that symbolizes the passage of the weeks leading up to Christmas. The wreath is a circle signifying eternal life and God's unending love. Often, it is adorned with four candles, representing hope, peace, joy, and love. Each Sunday, a new candle is lit during worship, accompanied by prayers and reflections, culminating in the lighting of the Christ candle on Christmas Eve.

Lessons and Carols

A tradition that brings together the community in remembrance and song is the service of Lessons and Carols. This service intersperses scripture readings which recount the prophecy and birth of Jesus with the singing of beloved carols and hymns. The blend of scripture and music creates a powerful narrative that leads us through the sacred story of Christ's birth and its significance. We will be celebrating this on December 29th at Cross of Calvary during our worship.

Christmas Pageant

The nativity play or pageant is a cherished tradition within many Lutheran congregations, allowing participants to retell the Christmas story through dramatization. Our Sunday School takes part in portraying the biblical figures from the shepherds to the Magi, bringing the nativity scene to life. This reenactment not only celebrates the story of Christ’s birth but also encourages active participation and reflection on its lessons. We will hold this annual tradition on December 15th at 11 am!

These traditions are not only celebrations of God’s ultimate gift to humanity but also serve as reminders of the love and joy that flow from our faith. As we immerse ourselves in these sacred customs, may our hearts be filled with peace, and may we extend the light of Christ to all those around us, now and throughout the year.

May this Christmas season be one of reflection, joy, and renewal for you and your loved ones. A joyous and blessed Christmas to you all!

In Christ,

Pastor Matt

December Worship Assistants

Ushers: Nate Bahl, Keith Larson, Steve Altmann, Darren Sagedahl

Acolytes: Elin Elfering,Haley Amsden and Halle Helin

Worship A/V: Will Stratton, Aaron McLagan

Communion Helper: Scott Johnson

Altar Guild: Natashia Johnson, Lisa Meints

Filled with Thanks!

We would like to thank Chad and Tanner Amsden Lawn and Tree Service for donating their time and equipment to remove eight unhealthy trees from the church property. Additionally, they trimmed many more. We also give thanks to all of the hardworking volunteers who came to help clear the debris.

Your Offering

For those of you who give your offering using Vanco, our online giving portal: when you give using a credit card, Cross of Calvary pays a fee for your gift.

When you give using a bank account, no fee is charged.

We give thanks for both kinds of giving.

Prayers for Healing and Strength 

Chet Boen 

Carol Hormann 

Bob Sagedahl

Keith Beckler

Cindy Thiesse

Veva Mittelstadt

Prayer concerns will now be listed for one month only. If you'd like to extend or add prayers for an individual or family, please call the church office. 320-523-1574

Need Pastoral Care? Please have a family member or friend notify the church. You may also request hospital staff to call on your behalf. Call day or night at 320-579-0839. Never feel as though you are bothering Pastor or the staff. We are here to serve as a comfort and as a resource.