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A weekly newsletter from the Presbytery of Minnesota Valleys
September 21, 2022
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We are congregations who seek to be a collective expression of the Body of Christ, joyfully participating in Christ's ongoing life and work. "Therefore encourage one another and build up each other, as indeed you are doing."
(I Thessalonians 5:11)
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Congregation of the Week of September 25 - October 1
First Presbyterian Church of Mountain Lake
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Moderator: Rev. David Lick
Clerk of Session: Julie Johnson
Pray for our congregation: we are small but we work hard together. We are thankful for the support of our entire church family.
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Together in Christ
I was recently asked to record a sermon for your churches to use on September 25th. The idea was to provide pastors with a break in preaching the Sunday after the clergy retreat, and this sermon is available to help with that. There is a liturgy to go with it if you like and you will find links for that in this newsletter, compliments of Rev. Michael Hartwell, pastor of the Presbyterian church in Randall.
I thought I’d take just a moment today to introduce the topic I focused upon - the theology of work. I have been leading a book study zoom group on this subject. We have been reading “Work and Worship: Reconnecting Our Labor and Liturgy” by Matthew Kaemingk and Cory Willson. I have enjoyed the conversation and I believe this topic points us in what could potentially be a helpful direction for becoming more deeply connected to one another throughout our Presbytery.
We spend about 90,000 hours at work over the course of our lifetime. Our work deeply matters to God, and it is also an enormous part of our own life and sense of well-being. We would be interested in helping you connect through the common ground of vocation. In my sermon you will hear a story of a rural mail carrier named Debbie, who is in our Presbytery. I wonder if there are any other mail carriers out there. I would love to know, and to arrange a zoom call with all of you so we could hear the stories of your mail route. In my sermon you are also going to hear a story of one of our teachers, named Emily, who is also in this Presbytery. Are there other teachers out there? Again, I would love to hear from you and arrange for a zoom call so we could hear the stories of your classrooms, the challenges you face, the things that bring you joy. What other professions are represented in our Presbytery? What kind of work do you do? Maybe your days of paid employment are now behind you, but you are doing volunteer work or helping with grandchildren or feeding your neighborhood via your garden. I’d love to hear about your work and then get a little group of others who are doing similar things together for a zoom call, so we could swap stories and learn more about each other’s work.
My hope is that we can begin to get acquainted beyond the Sunday morning life of our churches, and into the workweek where so much of our life is lived. That is the primary place where we live out our faith and connect with the world around us. In my sermon you will learn how the ancient Israelites did this, and we will begin to think about how we can continue to do this today. Connecting with each other over zoom and maybe even in person, if distance doesn’t prevent that from happening, could be a fresh way to discover God at work. How do you live out your faith if you work in construction? If you wash dishes in a restaurant? If you work in a hospital? Whatever your work we can help and encourage each other! Please email me at [email protected] and tell me what kind of work you do. Listen to my sermon too, if you can, and then let’s see where this might lead. I am hoping that connecting through the common ground of vocation we will deepen our journey of faith and the good work we are doing across our Presbytery!
Together in Christ,
With courage, devotion and good spirit as a colleague,
Rev. Beth Buckwalter-Miller
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Presbytery Sermon Sunday
Sunday, September 25
Sermon and Liturgy Now Available!
Churches across the Presbytery are encouraged to invite the Presbytery Executive the Rev. Beth Buckwalter-Miller to Preach a virtual sermon on Sunday, September 25.
The sermon and worship material can be downloaded at https://pixeldrain.com/l/PYR3yEKF. Click on the image and follow the download instructions. You do not need to register on the site to download the files. The worship material is available in both Word or PDF format.
The sermon Is also available on YouTube at https://youtu.be/A6C_NZBKX6I.
If you have technical questions, please feel free to contact me at [email protected]
Michael Hartwell
Inventive Ministries Task Force of the Commission on Leadership
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A Few Photos from the Pastor's Retreat | |
Here is the group at the retreat. Carol Meier was the worship leader (in blue in the front). | |
L-R: Beth Buckwalter-Miller, Leanne Thompson, Anne Veldhuisen, Scott Thompson, Randy Knuth, Cory Germain, Beverly Brock, Mark Ford, Galen Smith, Michael Hartwell, Laura Messer, Andy Davis, Paul Snyder, Bill Yueill, Scott Prouty, Pamela Prouty, Brian Jones. Not pictured: Jeanne Kumbalek | |
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Calling all Clerks!
The Book of Order requires us to review each other’s records every two years! So we are going to do that. We will review Session minutes in 2023. I also hope to gather clerks together via zoom sometime this Winter so we can chat about our role as clerks. Let Pamela Prouty know if you have questions or concerns.
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Receiving SDOP Applications
The presbytery has received notification that the amount of the Self-Development of People funds allotted to our Presbytery is $5,000. The absolute deadline for applications to the national office is November 1, so we have now through mid-October to receive and review applications at the presbytery level.
We invite Presbytery’s congregations and their leaders to identify grassroots groups in their communities who are struggling but want to improve their situations. This is a wonderful way for your church to join God in reaching out to neighbors in need.
The basic criteria to qualify is that the group 1) own, 2) control, and 3) benefit from the project. The process includes groups submitting application forms to the presbytery office as soon as possible. The Committee will review the application and do an on-site or zoom visit and decide whether to submit the application. Application forms can be downloaded from www.presbyterianmission.org/ministries/sdop/apply-grant.
Committee members currently include Dick Andzenge of St. Cloud, Thalia Taylor of St. Peter and Jessie Gaytan of Worthington.
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Welcome to Kali’s Korner!
Kali’s Korner is where Leaders and Youth can find out what is going on and stay up to date on the latest and greatest things! If you’d like to add an event or something special to Kali’s Korner for all Leaders and Youth to see, please send it to: [email protected]
"Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God." Romans 15:7
The first thing I saw when I walked up to First Presbyterian Church in Mankato last weekend: “GOD'S DOORS ARE OPEN TO EVERYONE” --these beautiful, colorful doors with these words “GOD'S DOORS ARE OPEN TO EVERYONE” is really eye-catching. It was really inviting. I couldn't help but think to myself, “WOW, what a friendly reminder; God’s doors truly are open to everyone, NO MATTER WHAT.
Look closely at the picture. What do you notice? I notice the words “GOD’S DOORS ARE OPEN TO EVERYONE”. I notice there aren't handles on all the doors? I notice the bright colors. I notice the invite. I notice a reassurance of God’s presence. I notice support. I notice guidance. I notice there are several doors. I notice peace. I notice it is next to the church. I notice it’s never too late to enter God’s door. God has so many doors of opportunity for us. It is up to us to enter and receive His welcome.
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Follow the NEW
and OFFICIAL
Instagram account
@mvp.youth
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Let’s get together to process what has been and move forward In the Ways of Jesus. Join colleagues at ConNext Summit 2022 for Gracious Idleness that’ll prepare you for Scrappy Transformation that will lead your congregation into Radical Belonging. Refresh your soul with scenic beauty and spacious time, reimagine a more sustainable and life-giving ministry, and depart ready to renew your community. Scrumptious happy hours; community-building music; and laughter will be balm for your soul.
Find details and registration here; workshop overviews and bios are here. Registration closes September 25, 2022!
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YOUTH LEAD CONFERENCE 2022
November 5, 2022-Twin Cities, MN
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New Beginnings for a New Era
After years of prayerful consideration and the moving of the Holy Spirit between First Presbyterian Church, Rushmore and Emmanuel Presbyterian Church, Rushmore, each of them voted unanimously to follow God’s leading and come together as one congregation.
While it is a celebration, there naturally is grief and loss felt because First Presbyterian Church, Rushmore has been a place that has meant so much to so many through the years. The legacy will continue with us as we worship together in one building as we bring the two houses of faith together.
While we acknowledge our moving on, we also will begin with a celebration of worship and a catered meal on Sunday, September 25. The worship service will begin at 10 AM. The Rev. Beth Buckwalter-Miller, our Executive Presbyter will offer God’s Word and encouragement as our preacher for the day. If you would like to be a part of this special celebration, we would like your RSVP no later than Wednesday, September 21, 2022. You may send your RSVP to: [email protected] or [email protected]. You may also call Pastor Randy Knuth at his office: 507-967-2269. Please leave a message with number attending.
If you are not able to attend and would like to send greetings or memories especially of First Presbyterian Church, Rushmore, please do so also by responding by Wednesday, September 21 to the above email address or you may mail them to: Rev. Randy Knuth at 504 S. Broadway St., Ellsworth, Minnesota 56129.
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Register today to join a book study
Black Elk Speaks
by John G. Neihardt
Dates: September 26, October 17 and 31
Daytime study begins at 1:30-2:30 PM (CST)
Evening study begins at 6:30-7:30 PM (CST)
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This book study is sponsored by Presbyterian Women in the Synod of Lakes and Prairies and led by members of the PWS Native American Concerns Committee. It is open to interested women and men across the synod, via Zoom videoconferencing (using computer or phone). There is no charge to participate, yet registration is required.
Synopsis: Black Elk Speaks, the story of the Oglala Lakota visionary and healer Nicholas Black Elk (1863–1950) and his people during momentous twilight years of the nineteenth century, offers readers much more than a precious glimpse of a vanished time. Black Elk’s searing visions of the unity of humanity and Earth, conveyed by John G. Neihardt, have made this book a classic that crosses multiple genres. Whether appreciated as the poignant tale of a Lakota life, as a history of a Native nation, or as an enduring spiritual testament, Black Elk Speaks is unforgettable.
Black Elk met the distinguished poet, writer, and critic John G. Neihardt in 1930 on the Pine Ridge Reservation in South Dakota and asked Neihardt to share his story with the world. Neihardt understood and conveyed Black Elk’s experiences in this powerful and inspirational message for all humankind.
Register by contacting Marilyn Stone at [email protected]
Provide the following information: Name - Email address - Phone # - Presbytery - Afternoon or evening study preference
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Racial Ethnic Student Scholarship
So happy to send you this 2022 Racial Ethnic Student Scholarship application from the Committee on Racial Ethnic Ministries of the Synod of Lakes and Prairies, Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). The application can be found on the Synod’s website here, https://lakesandprairies.org/finance-grants/scholarship-funds/ and a copy is provided as an attachment for your convenience. We hope that you will share this with the congregations in your presbytery.
The Student Scholarship is an educational assistance program designed to encourage Indigenous and students of color in their preparation for academic success in higher education. Students must have a permanent residence within the Synod of Lakes and Prairies, be active members in a Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) congregation and have confirmation of enrollment in a college, university, or specialty program.
The synod is committed to partner with students and schools for leadership development and quality instruction for lifelong service. Application awards are based on personal achievement, financial need and recommendation from a teacher and pastor.
Completed applications are due September 30, 2022, and must include an official transcript and financial aid statement.
Please help share this news by distributing the form to eligible students and interested church partners. Questions about the application or process may be directed to
Elona Street-Stewart, 651-357-1149
[email protected]
or
Gretchen Milloy, 651-357-1143
[email protected]
Peace,
Elona Street-Stewart, Synod Executive
Carolyn Grice, Chair, Committee on Racial Ethnic Ministry
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Furnishing and Supplies available from First Presbyterian Jackson church
We have a wide variety of furnishings and supplies available to MVP congregations from the former First Presbyterian Church in Jackson. We are asking for a donation if your congregation is interested in acquiring any of these items.
Please contact one of the Administrative Commission members for more information: Galen Smith, (507) 376-3138, Cory Germain, Deb Hess, Mary Jo Lutz, Stan Menning
Some of the items are:
The Presbyterian Hymnal (1990 Blue); 180 pew editions; 2 accompaniment editions
Pipe organ
2 Filing cabinets - 5 drawer
Wood pews, semi-circular, or straight
Mixer, amplifier, microphones
Pulpit, Lectern, Communion table, Baptismal Font
Choir Robes
Bibles - TEV, ESV
Vases, Candelabra, Advent Wreath
Christmas decorations
Step ladders
Refrigerators: Kenmore, GE
Deep Freezer
Miscellaneous Kitchen utensils, glasses, silver service, dishes, etc.
TV, VCR, Cart
Fans
Upholstered Chairs
Sofa, upholstered side chairs, end table
Seth Thomas 5’ tall pendulum clock
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Pastor Opportunity
It's been a hard couple of years for everybody! Pastors are dealing with all the issues that are related to the pandemic, along with all the normal ups and downs and other parts of ministry. In addition, they are ministering to congregations that are also dealing with a lot of stress and anxiety.
The Commission on Leadership has decided to give those in ministry some help and support in the form of affordable coaching. The Synod has trained coaches to provide the service at a cost of $50.00 per session. The Commission on Leadership has approved paying one half of the cost for one session a month for up to 24 months. If you are already working with a coach or want to use another one, you still can be reimbursed $25.00 per month. This program is available to all pastors, CREs who are serving churches and Christian educators.
We all can use some help and support as we continue to deal with a lot of heavy issues. If you are feeling just a little (or a lot) overwhelmed, please take advantage of this opportunity.
Contact Beth Buckwalter-Miller if you want to get started: 530-513-0592 or e-mail [email protected]
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2022 Per Capita
$43.00 Total
$28.52 for Presbytery
$5.50 for Synod
$8.98 for GA
2022 Presbytery Meeting Dates
Saturday, Oct 8 in person from 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. (location: St. Cloud)
Tuesday, Dec 6 via Zoom from 6:30 – 8:00 p.m.
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Prayer List
- For Rev. Elaine Boyd and family, retired pastor most recently serving First Presbyterian Church of Amboy and now living in Willmar, on the death of Elaine's husband, Kent. Cards can be sent to 1613 19th Ave SW, Willmar MN 56201. Kent's memorial service will be Monday, Sept 26 at 1:30 PM at First Presbyterian Church of Willmar.
- For Michael, husband of Rev. Jeanne Kumbalek, serving First Presbyterian Churches of Lake Crystal and Kasota; Michael suffered a heart attack and is at Mayo in Rochester
- For Rev. Al and Jeri Jergenson and family, retired pastor most recently serving Foley
- For Rev. Jeff DeYoe, undergoing cancer treatment (former pastor at Hope Presbyterian Church, Spicer)
- For Rev. Mark Chamberlain, retired pastor, Willmar
- For Rev. Bob Bartlett, retired pastor, Round Lake
- For Rev. Michael Roys, retired pastor, Winnebago
- Pray for our brothers and sisters in the Occidente Presbytery of Guatemala - for their health, safety, and recovery from the effects of the Covid pandemic
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Pastoral Leadership Opportunities
First Presbyterian Church of Canby - Pastor
First Presbyterian Church, Pipestone - Pastor
Harrison Presbyterian Church, rural Spicer - Pastor, yoked parish
First Presbyterian Church, Winnebago - Pastor
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