InspireL C M . C H U R C H

Newsletter

December 2019

He's speaking... Are you listening?

LCM InspireThis month we are going to focus on listening to God when He speaks to us and then following His instruction.

Join us as we discover different perspectives on this topic and we hope that you will grow in your understanding and move forward in Christ’s will, with us.

Thanks for reading!

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Words from Our Pastors

Children & Youth Ministries

Senior Ministry

Music Ministry

Sudanese Ministry

Servant Hearts

Ministry Update

Information Sharing

Let Us Pray

Small Group Listings

TGOW Registration Form

Advent Calendar

LCM | Pg. 2

LCM Happenings

Musings of a Morrison

TGOW Registration Form

Musings of a Morrison

Pastor’s NoteGod is speaking, but are we listening?

Some of you know my “burning bush” story, but I would like to share it again. It is not as dramatic as when God spoke to Moses from the burning “non-burning up” bush in Exodus 3.

The event happened back when Pastor Megard and I were the only two pastors at LCM, we were in the process of leaving the ELCA, it was prior to becoming a multi-site congregation and my dad was dying from a glioblastoma brain tumor. It was a difficult time. My family had planned a weekend vacation in Kansas City and I was feeling guilty about leaving George alone.

Sherri and I were driving down 168th street to pick up the kids from Millard West when a van pulled out from a side street and was right in front of us. This is what we saw…

Now, was this God speaking to me? Or, was it a humorous happenstance? I could probably make an argument either way… we went to KC for the weekend.

I believe one can only hear God with faith, otherwise we miss God speaking to us and dismiss it as coincidence. I also believe what we think is of God needs to be checked with the fundamental truth of the Scriptures. I would be very suspicious of “new revelation” which has

little to do with Christ and His gracious gifts to us. Otherwise you could end up worshiping the “Let George Do It” van rather than the true source of salvation, Jesus Christ! I believe that would fall into the category of heresy, idol worship and apostasy!

Don’t want to go down that road!

We are entering a very interesting time in the worship cycle of the church. It is a time of waiting for the coming of Christ. As Pastor Jonathan says, it is about “Christ coming to dwell in the neighborhood.” Waiting, listening and reflecting on His coming to us is the time called Advent.

For me, hearing God is more about hearing the message of eternal salvation and gracious forgiveness of our sin through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, than an experience with a “Let George Do It” van.

For me, hearing God is more about allowing God’s Holy Spirit calling, gathering, enlightening and sanctifying me than for me to have a warm fuzzy moment of spirituality.

For me, hearing God is less about “Let George Do It” and more about “Christ Has Done It!”

Paul reminds us in Romans 10:17, “So faith comes from hearing, that is, hearing the Good News about Christ.”

If we are to hear God, that is the most important thing to hear!

Pastor Kip TylerSenior Pastor

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What We Believe

Aspire

a. To God’s purpose(What) God has a purpose for us here and for eternity. Many people go through life feeling discouraged about themselves and thinking they do not have a purpose in life. But that’s not true. Whoever you are—whatever your life experiences, talents, physical ability, or role—you have a purpose. In one sense, you are always living in God’s purpose. God is God and He works all things, including your life, according to His purposes. Read these Bible verses and see a glimpse of what God has for you.

• Ephesians 2:10• Psalm 139:13-16• Romans 8:28• 1 Peter 1:2

b. To God’s plan for your life(How) Plans are what the Lord has prepared for us to accomplish His purpose through the Spirit. God loves you and offers a wonderful plan for your life. Look through these scriptures and summarize what you find:

• Ephesians 1:11• Jeremiah 29:11• Proverbs 16:9• Ecclesiastes 3:1-22• John 15:5• Psalm 32:8• Romans 12:2

Pastor John LewisExecutive Pastor

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A New PerspectiveI love to talk. This comes as no surprise to those who know me. This has been true for as long as I can remember. The truth is, talking is easy. I like to do it. Listening, on the other hand, not so much. I’ve had to work on that. What’s more, I used to confuse not talking with listening. I’d often stop just long enough to catch my breath while I let someone else have a turn. (How kind of me, right?) All the while, as they were sharing, I was thinking about what I wanted to say next.

As I’ve gotten older, and hopefully more mature, the Lord has patiently renewed me to reflect His image. Listening to others has taken on a more significant role and has become a very active discipline. Listening is not just refraining from speaking so someone else can have a turn, even though that’s not always wrong. (After all, King Solomon once wrote that even a foolish man is considered wise if he keeps his mouth shut). It’s more of a desire to understand where the person I’m listening to is coming from. Listening involves discovering why they feel the way they do about any given topic. It seeks to hear the person! That means we ought to be in an ongoing friendship with those around us.

We have been talking about what it means to hear from God during our Wednesday night class. Much of our conversation is centered on the principal of listening. It presupposes a couple of things that I believe are worth sharing again:

• Learning to hear from God is meant to be a part of a certain kind of life where we are living in an ongoing conversation with God.

• We must make it our primary goal not just to hear the voice of God, but to be mature people in a loving relationship with Him who can act upon the conversation. Hearing God’s words leads us to action.

• God’s communication comes to us in many forms.

• God enjoys it when we understand and act upon His will.

• We can hear God’s voice and know what He Is saying.

These are just some of the principles we have been discussing. My encouragement to you all is that we live in a world where God is speaking. The question becomes: Are we listening? We are launching into the Advent season. It’s a time where we prepare our hearts to receive the good news about the arrival of Jesus. There’s a line from the Christmas hymn, O Holy Night, which says, “A thrill of hope the weary world rejoices, for yonder breaks a new glorious morn.” God speaks to His good world, wearied by sin and longing for redemption by sending his Son. Are we listening?

You see, it’s all connected really. Indeed, we are created and meant for a certain kind of life. The Westminster Confession asks the question: What is the chief end of man? The answer is to glorify God and enjoy Him forever. We are created in relationship and for relationship. Are we listening? The one who put on flesh and dwelt among us taught us how to love and live. Who truly has the good life? It’s the one who hears and does what He says. Are we listening? This Advent and Christmas season, with all of the other voices competing for your allegiance, you may find yourself struggling with the notion that you can hear from God. In those instances, take heart and remember the words of Jesus: “My sheep know my voice.” God is speaking. Are we listening? Let’s answer that question together with a resounding, “YES!”

Pastor Mario AlejandreCampus Pastor (West)

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MISSION PRACTICE #4: DOING GOOD“Not all of us can do great things.

But we can do small things with great love.”~ Mother Teresa

For the last few months, we have been examining the 5 faith practices, proposed by Pastor Greg Finke. They put us into position to join Jesus on His mission in our local community. So far, we have looked at the practices of seeking the Kingdom, hearing from Jesus, and talking with people. This month, we are examining the faith practice of doing good.What if random acts of kindness aren’t so random? What if the unplanned good we go around doing for people is actually planned by God? In fact, that is how it works! The Apostle Paul writes in Ephesians 2:10: “For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”

A simple but important way to be in position to join Jesus on His redemptive mission is to be looking for people in our “neighborhoods” who are ready for a blessing. What good can we do for them? In fact, what good has God prepared in advance for us to do for them? The fourth practice of doing good begins with us looking for the good we can do.

Sometimes we can plan to do something good in advance for people. But most of the time, the good God has prepared in advance for us to do looks spontaneous and unforeseen to us. “We weren’t planning it, but we were looking for it. And so we recognized the opportunity when it arrived to bless someone with a word of hope, an act of kindness, an attitude of grace, a little time, or a little help” (p.119). Jesus speaks of little seeds through which God grows mighty works. Our job as everyday missionaries is not the mighty works; our job is the little seeds.Many times when people think about doing good, we automatically consider doing good for random strangers along life’s way. But, what

if we became more intentional and consistent about doing good for the people regularly within our reach? Family members. Neighbors. Co-workers. Classmates. As everyday missionaries, we are called to sow seeds out of the abundance of God’s love, mercy, and grace. How exciting it is to see seeds sprout and bear fruit!

In an ironic way, sometimes the good we can do is allowing people to do good for us! Although this can make some of us uncomfortable, allowing people to bless and serve us in our time of need is also missionally powerful. It deepens the relationship. It blesses both the giver and the receiver. Sometimes the good that God has prepared in advance for us to do is letting our neighbor love and bless us.

Theologian Winnie-the-Pooh states, “A little consideration, a little thought for others, makes all the difference” (p.121). While words mean so little in our culture, deeds create a pathway of compassion and dialogue. As Pastor Greg Finke states, “It is important that people see Jesus in us before they hear about Jesus from us. The good works [God] has prepared in advance for us to do become the visible proof that Jesus is real” (p.121). Words regain meaning because through our simple acts of kindness, people are seeing that the kingdom of God has come to them.

The missional practice of doing good is the result of God preparing and us responding. Consider these questions: What good can we do around here? How can we help make the kingdom and grace of God a little more real to people around us? ** With the permission of Greg Finke, content has been quoted, summarized, and adapted from Joining Jesus on His Mission: How to Be an Everyday Missionary (Tyler, TX: Tenth Power Publishing, 2014).

Pastor Jonathan Haseley Campus Pastor (East)

Here’s a Thought...

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Alleluia!

But Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me. Don’t stop them! For the Kingdom of Heaven belongs to those who are like these

children.”

We are preparing for our Christmas program and there is nothing more evident to me how God works through our Preschool & Kindergarten children daily. A great example is listening to them sing the choruses of “Joy to the World” and “Angels we have Heard on High”! It will easily give you the chills! I know that the teachers at Alleluia! Preschool & Kindergarten can imagine those children when they are at their churches on Christmas Eve/Day lifting their voices to our Lord and Savior and celebrating Jesus’ Birth! We invite you to join us Monday, December 16th at 6:30 PM in the CLC at West Campus to listen to these sweet children & join in with the heavenly chorus to sing praise to Jesus, our Savior. We hope to see you there!

Alleluia! Preschool: This month, we are preparing for the birth of Jesus! We know that JESUS is our BEST gift of ALL! The children are making decorations & projects to remember baby Jesus! We are working on a special project for our Christmas fundraiser! We are singing songs and reading our book for our Christmas Program!

Please check our pictures on Alleluia! Preschool & Kindergarten’s Facebook page. It is fun to see all of our activities!

Alleluia! Kindergarten:December is almost here and that means lots of fun in Kindergarten! We will be learning to sing Christmas carols for our program and talking about the best gift ever, Jesus! Joy is the fruit of the Spirit that will be our focus. We will be learning about animals that hibernate for Science and most of our books in Reading will be about animals in the winter. Math will take shape this month, as we start our geometry unit. Finally the students will learn what it means to give, as we celebrate our Advent Angels in the classroom.

SAVE those receipts! The Hy-Vee Cash for Students program started on September 1st and ends December 31st. Hy-Vee donates $1.00 for every $200 of receipts turned in! Please bring your receipts to Church and drop them in the office for Alleluia! Preschool & Kindergarten. Please remember to support the Hy-Vee Grocery stores as they support Alleluia! Preschool. Thank you for your time and for saving those receipts!

Fundraisers! If you are looking for a night off from cooking, please join us from 4 PM-9 PM at the Don & Millie's Restaurant at 108th and Center. They have generously saved every 1st Tuesday of the month as Alleluia! Preschool & Kindergarten Night and will donate 20% of the sales that night to our program. Remember to tell them that you are supporting Alleluia! Preschool.

Thank you for your support with these easy fundraisers!

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Children’s MinistryCalendarDEC 1 LCM Kids: Christmas Program REHEARSAL 10:30am BOTH Campuses

DEC 4 LCM Kids: Wednesday 6-7pm

DEC 7 WEST Christmas Program Rehearsal for ONLY Speaking Roles 1:30pm

DEC 8 LCM Kids: Christmas Program EAST-9:15am; WEST-10:30am

DEC 11 LCM Kids: Wednesday 6-7pm

DEC 15 LCM Kids: Sunday School Ornament Crafts

DEC 18 LCM Kids: Wednesday Christmas Party

DEC 22 LCM Kids: Sunday School Christmas Party10:30am

DEC 25 NO LCM Kids: Wednesday

DEC 29 LCM Kids: Sunday School 10:30am

BOTH Campuses

JAN 2 NO LCM Kids: Wednesday

JAN 5 LCM Kids: Sunday School 10:30am

JAN 8 LCM Kids: Wednesday Resumes 6-7pm

Helping Kids Hear GodTeaching our kids to talk to God in prayer at dinner and bedtime…Check! That’s it right? We don’t usually think to go the step further and teach them about listening for Him to communicate back.

Teaching our kids to hear God’s voice starts with the Bible. He already speaks to us through His Word, so if kids aren’t familiar with what God’s Word says, how will they know it’s God talking to them. It’s important that they know that when God is speaking to them, it will always match with what’s in the Bible.

The Bible isn’t the only way to hear God. He is speaking to us all the time in different ways. God speaks to us through thoughts and ideas that He puts into our head through the Holy Spirit. It might be a picture, a word, a dream,

a song, or a name. When the Holy Spirit is speaking, it may come along with a feeling that we can’t ignore. God can also speak to us through other people. Sometimes people happen to say something that speaks right to what we have been struggling with. God may be using others to try to get our attention.

And then back to those prayers we taught our kids. Teaching kids that spending time in prayer includes quieting down and listening for God. Your kids will learn that the more time you spend with God, the easier it is to know He is speaking.

LCM Kids: Wednesday December InformationWe will be having an LCM Kids Wednesday Christmas Party on December 18th at both East and West Campuses. Come for dinner at 5:30pm and then stay for a party from 6-7pm. Have your kids join us for a fun night! Make note that LCM Kids Wednesday will take a 2-week break on December 25th and January 1st.

West Campus LCM Kids Christmas Program InformationIt’s here! The annual West Campus LCM Kids: Christmas Program! The program will take place on December 8th at 10:30am in place of the normal service. Even if you have no kids performing in the program, we open an invitation for you to come watch! Final rehearsal will be on Sunday, December 1st at 10:30am, so make sure your kids come to this last practice. You can practice the music at home or in the car at lcm.church/lcmkids or on the LCM App. Please note, only those with speaking roles need to attend a rehearsal on Sat., Dec 7th at 1:30pm. Please contact Kellie with any questions.

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Children’s MinistryEAST CAMPUS CHRISTMAS PROGRAMWe are ready to host the 9:15am service on December 8th. We’re excited to have an intergenerational choir, readers, and assistants during the service. Kids and youth will be leading all parts of worship! Please plan on our last practice and dress rehearsal on Sunday, December 1st, in the sanctuary following the 9:15am service. It is not too late to join and we would love to have you. You can practice the music at home or in the car on the LCM App, or grab a CD from Tracy. We could also use more youth to be ushers and readers. Following the performance on the 8th, we will celebrate with special Christmas cookies.

LCM Kids: East Nativity Pieces Needed We have purchased a new nativity for the Narthex at East campus. We are looking for sponsors to purchase the animals to go with it. This is a large set and to be enjoyed for years to come. The animals vary from $90 to $27 and are purchased individually. Please let Tracy Schmidt know if you wish to sponsor an animal or have questions. Please indicate “Nativity” on any contribution.

Important Dates for 5th GradersAll 5th graders and their parents are asked to attend the Table of the Lord classes to learn about communion. Classes will take place every Sunday from January 12th through February 16th at 10:30am. Continue to keep an eye out for more information.

BINGO Night Coming in JanuaryMake sure Bingo Night is on your calendar for Friday, January 31st from 6-8pm at West Campus. There will be pizza, lots of fun, and great prizes!!

LOOKING AHEAD TO VBSWe are anticipating mountains of fun this summer for Rocky Railway VBS! How can you help now? Christmas Trees. This is the time of year you are digging out those artificial trees and we want them. If you are thinking about getting rid of one or know of someone who is, please let us take it off your hands! Bring it to either East or West Campus. If you have a tree stand to hold it, we would take that too, but really need trees!

Questions? Find us at: www.lcm.church/lcmkids

Tracy Schmidt- East Campus LCM Kidstracy.schmidt@lcm.church402.213.7585 orKellie Webb- West Campus LCM Kidskellie.webb@lcm.church402.213.1893

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Youth Ministry Here at LCM we are so fortunate to have Small Group Leaders that go all out for our young people. We ask a lot of our SGLs and they are relentlessly caring, praying, and sharing the Love of Christ with our young people. These are pictures from over the last couple of months showing you the fun, the excitement, and the numerous Small Group Leaders who are making LCM a warm

community for young

people!

Chris Andersen & Shelly Oestmann at our 2nd Annual

Trunk-or-Treat.

Rick and Christine Hacker went out to watch Brooklyn ride horses on a Sunday afternoon after church. This shows our

young people how much our SGLs care about showing up at different points in

their life outside of church!

After a long weekend at Okoboji, of course we had to stop at Blue Bunny

in LeMars, IA for a sweet treat.

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Alexis Neufind working on our Small Group lesson on Matthew 28:19-20. Learning that we

don’t have to go extra places to share the Gospel, but we can do it in the places we are already

going!

Jan Wojdyla leading her Small Group during EpiCenter Youth Group as we are talking about

Sharing the Gospel with our friends.

Chris attending a basketball game for one of our young people on a Saturday afternoon! Savana

Hatfield and her team racked up numerous points against their opponents.

Dave and Joyce Schilke take time to go and see young people at their school events and activities. Here Dave and Joyce went to Lillian Schmidt’s Band Concert at Elkhorn Valley View

Middle School!

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Senior Ministry

We meet the second Wednesday of the month, usually at 10am, in the Fellowship Hall at East Campus. It is a time for retirees to get together for

food, entertainment, and fellowship. Some luncheons are catered and some are pot-lucks. There is a sign up two weeks before the meeting.

Come and meet some new people!

Horizons

Program: Burke High School Show Choir

Meal: Pork Chops, Baked Potatoes, Country Green Beans, Rolls & Dessert.

Catered by Gary Anderson

Price: $7 (incl. dues)

December 11 | 10amEast Campus

See you again in March 2020

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Music MinistryAngels from the Realms of Glory

This hymn was written by James Montgomery (1771-1854), who was born in Scotland of Irish parents. His father, John Montgomery, was a Moravian pastor. As a young man, James drifted from the faith, but as he matured he returned to the Moravian church and became an advocate for Christian missions. James Montgomery was inspired to write this hymn. Each verse speaks to the nativity from the perspective of a different group of people: VERSE 1 is about the angels, who are urged to “proclaim the Messiah’s birth.” VERSE 2 is about “Shepherds in the fields abiding.” It includes the phrase, “God with man is now residing”—an allusion to Isaiah 7:14 and Matthew 1:23, which speak of a virgin conceiving and bearing a son whose name will be Emmanuel, which means “God with us.” VERSE 3 is about “Sages,” the Magi or Wise Men, who are urged to “Seek the great esire of nations”—an allusion to Haggai 2:7, which in the King James Version reads:“And I will shake all nations, and the desire of all nations shall come: and I will fill this house with glory, saith the Lord of hosts.” VERSE 4 (which is not in our Lutheran Book of Worship) expands the vision to “Saints”— a word that in the New Testament applies to all Christians. VERSE 5 further expands the vision by urging “All creation” to praise “God, the Father, Spirit, Son.”

Taken from: Sermon Writer

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As we reflect on the past year of sharing the gift of music with the LCM congregation, we are reminded that the beauty of Christmas is the celebration of Christ.

May yours be filled with the gifts He gives - Peace, Joy, Hope, and Love!

Diane Madsen and The Master Ringersdiane.madsen@lcm.church

Sudanese Ministry

On September 22, 2019 we hosted a celebration. We celebrated the anniversary of Pastor David Gatkal Wuol’s installation. We also installed three new Deaconesses in our church, including Tracy (Theresa) Schmidt. A

special acknowledgment was made to Tracy (Theresa) having African blood and being of our family. This celebration was followed by congregational blessings. We then celebrated by having traditional African food and pizza. A big thank you to all the LCM congregation in attendance and providing food and flowers for this very special day.

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Servant Hearts

As Christmas and New Year’s approach, many people are hurting due to the loss of a loved one, a cancer diagnosis, divorce, job loss, or some other significant life challenge. These experiences can make an ordinarily joyous season difficult, lonely, and perhaps even painful.

When you know someone is struggling during the holidays, here are some simple ways you can make a big difference:

• Offer to help in specific ways. Try to anticipate needs and ways you can help. For example, you might ask, “Can I help you prepare Thanksgiving dinner?” or “Can I help put out the Christmas lights?” Remember, however, to follow the person’s lead and not just impose your help.

• Help people pace themselves. The holidays are busy, and those who are hurting may need help or permission to slow down or do less than they ordinarily would. Let people know it’s okay to conserve energy, take breaks, and pick which activities and traditions to take part in.

• Ask people how they’re really doing. During the busyness of the holidays, it can be easy to just interact with people on a surface level. Finding a good time to ask hurting people how they’re really doing—and then listening—is a powerful way to care.

• Validate feelings. When people do open up and share, listen and then show that you believe them and accept their feelings. Letting people know it’s okay to feel whatever they’re feeling can provide a lot of comfort.

By relating in these ways, you can help hurting people find comfort and hope in a difficult time. If you or someone you know would like to talk to a Stephen Minister, please call the church office or one of the Stephen Ministry Leaders:

Carolyn Scheer 402-289-4863 Kathy Rudd 402-679-2515 Jim Rudd 559-362-1300 Connie Davis 402-305-0815

Blessings on you and your loved ones this Christmas season.

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Ministry UpdateBabies are being born in our Show Mercy Birthing Center!

We are so excited to share with you that the Show Mercy Birthing Center has been completed and is now open!! Our very first babies, Moses and Rose, were born at the Birthing Center in October.

Because of YOU, they are happy and healthy!

Sadly, this is not the story for many in Uganda. Often mamas in Uganda face poor conditions and lack sanitary options when delivering their babies. This often results in complications. Fortunately, because of YOUR generosity, Moses and Rose get to write a different story! Their moms were showered with hope, love, and encouragement as these beautiful babies were brought into the world.Because of You, Mamas now have access to:

• Prenatal and postnatal care along with the opportunity to attend child rearing, nutrition and family education classes

• A safe, clean, and loving environment for delivery

• Encouragement, prayer, and family support.

Thank you for literally bringing NEW LIFE into this village! It wouldn’t be possible without your generous support and continual prayer!!!

Would you consider an end of the year donation or a monthly contribution to the Birthing Center? Help support a mother throughout her entire pregnancy for a cost of just $200.

If you are interested in hearing about how you can help, please contact Pam or Brad Burklund at 402-619-0405

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Ministry UpdateMission-Haiti

Throughout the country’s history, the Haitian people have been resilient--making the best out of some pretty dire situations from devastating earthquakes and damaging hurricanes to awful dictatorships, exiled presidents, and rule by foreign power. Once again Haiti is experiencing trouble, with corruption being at the root. For the past year and a half, the country of Haiti has consistently been under different levels of alert due to continued political unrest and inflation. Unfortunately, over the past few months, things had reached a climax and the country saw buildings being looted, banks not functioning, government agencies virtually ceasing to exist, roadblocks impeding normal life, and schools and medical facilities closing their doors. Due to the increasing violence, the decision was made in October to close down Mission-Haiti’s seven schools and medical clinic and wait for the unrest to subside. To their dismay, the foreign missionaries were sent back home to the United States and Canada. They were not ready to leave the place they’ve come to call home and didn’t want to leave their students and families behind, but we felt this was for the best. We also canceled all of the short-term mission trips from October through December.

Even through all this turmoil, we were encouraged and feel blessed to have been able to keep a few of Mission-Haiti’s ministries open and functioning on a limited basis during this time: the concrete block plant, the Auto Parts Shop, the Ministry Center, the elderly home, and the evangelism team.

Things started to improve in November. While there will continue to be nonviolent protests, the situation has begun to simmer down. We are hopeful that we will be able to reopen all of our schools and the medical clinic by mid November. While this may be challenging, we feel that it will be best for our students and their families. We have had numerous meetings

with parents and school staff who all feel that they are in dire need of normalcy. It is their hope and desire that their students not lose an entire year of schooling. With that said, all of the Missionary teachers returned to Haiti on November 11th. Please remember them and the people of Haiti in your prayers. Pray that peace will come to this country and that the people will experience and feel God’s everlasting love. We are so thankful that we serve a God who knows the path forward, for only God can help this country. Please continue to uplift Mission-Haiti and the people of Haiti to the Lord.

If you are wishing more information about Mission-Haiti and all of its ministries or if you would be interested in sponsoring a student, please contact Breanna Burklund at 402-982-9258 or email at breanna@mission-haiti.org

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Information SharingDONATIONSContact: Connie Hacker / connie.hacker@lcm.church / 402-333-4444When you send in a donation check through your bank or investment account, please be sure that they include your name on the check somewhere. We have received several gifts this year without names on the check. Without a name, I am unable to include it on your contribution statement. If you have any questions, please contact Connie Hacker.

WEEKLY ANNOUNCEMENTSContact: Nikki Kotchka / 402-333-4444 /nikki.kotchka@lcm.churchSubmissions for announcements via videos, slides, etc., need to be submitted 2 weeks in advance.

INFO. UPDATE FORM Contact: Michelle Kalin / /402-333-4444/michelle.kalin@lcm.churchIf you have NOT completed an information update form, please do so as soon as possible. If you have completed an update but have had a change of information (such as address, phone number, email address, marital status, new family addition, etc.)please contact Michelle with questions.

NOVEMBER’S ATTENDANCENov. 3 -- 756Nov. 10 -- 683Nov. 17 -- 738

FINANCIAL INFORMATIONLutheran Church of the Master Financial SummaryActual: Jan. 1 - Oct. 31, 2019Total Income $1,338,782Total Expense $1,378,797Net Income (Loss) ($40,014)

WEDNESDAY MEAL MENUDec. 4 | (West) Chicken Strips(East) Hashbrown CasseroleDec. 11 | (West) Mac & Cheese(East) Meatball SubsDec. 18 | (West) Pizza(East) MeatloafDec. 25 | Merry ChristmasNo Class

East Advent meals provided by Gary Anderson.Suggested $5 donation/adult, $2/Student, $20 max/Family

ALTAR FLOWERSContact: EAST - Nancy Cooke / 402-391-1965 // WEST - JoAnn Kratky / 402-333-4080Please select a date and write in your name and phone number. You will be contacted for your bulletin information during the month before your chosen date. The cost is $30 for each bouquet and the flowers can be picked up after the last service on Sunday.

NEWSLETTER SUBMISSIONSContact: Tasha Morrison / 402-333-4444 /tasha.morrison@lcm.churchAll submissions due December 15th for the January newsletter.

TREASURERS REPORT THROUGH OCTOBER 2019.Last year at the end of October our expenses were $228,709.60 more than our inflow of funds. This year our expenses at the end of October are $40,014.40 more than our inflow of funds. I am confident our offerings will exceed budgeted expenses by year end. We have a lot of maintenance and repairs to be made in the following year plus continuing our outreach programs. As a Board member, I am requesting your prayers for guidance and direction as we prepare for the New Year.

GO AND SHARE THE LOVE OF CHRIST TODAY.

Dave SchilkeVice President & Treasurer ONLINE GIVING OPTIONSContact: Rob Meredith /402-333-4444 / rob.meredith@lcm.churchGiving is available via:• The LCM APP (available on

Apple and Google Play app stores)

• Online at www.lcm.church/give

Also,• Donations can be

processed via credit/debit card or bank account

• Transactions can be scheduled to automatically process in the future

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Let Us Pray DECEMBER’S PRAYER FOCUSMarriage

Bernice Baldauf

Marian Bolmeier

Dorothy Brei

Veljean Brown

Esther Christensen

Bruce Donelson

Elizabeth Donelson

Don Eitzmann

Esther Holmes

Audrey Jenner

Milt Jenner

Karen Kerns

Barry Kuhl

George “Bud” Lauritson

Lorine Maaske

Helen Madsen

Roland Mariucci

Robert Mitchell

Gloria Nitzschke

Lloyd Nitzschke

Bernhard Peterson

Jean Pospichal

Carol Rohrig

Norma Schlegel

Irma Senteney

Dorothy Weston

Alfred Wise

PRAYERS FOR CHURCH MEMBERS IN SKILLED OR ASSISTED LIVING

Garrett Bachorski - USMC

Maj. Megan (Beaty) John - USAF

Capt. Travis Benne - USAF

Vincent Bevilacqua - Navy

Travis Bland

Anthony Blum

Maj. Jim Chester

Andrew Enholm - Navy

Daniel Day

Dustin Funk - Navy

Ryan Hansen

Major Aaron Jackson

Samuel Jacobson - USMC

Airman Adam Nielsen - USAF

Joel Knox

Michael Koba

Tim Pecoraro - USMC

Lt. Cmdr. Keland Regan

Medic Cody Stickman - Army

Sam Worthington - Army

PRAYERS FOR LOVED ONES IN THE MILITARY

NOVEMBER’S BAPTISMS• Oliver David Janssen -

Baptized November 17, 2019• Jack Patrick Martin -

Baptized November 24, 2019• Scarlett Rebecca Thielfoldt-

Baptized November 27, 2019

JOB OPENINGPart-Time CustodianContact: Shari Bevilacqua at 402-333-4444For more information, please go to “resources” and then “job openings” on our website.

INCLEMENT WEATHERIn case of inclement weather, please check the local news stations, Facebook and/or our website for the most recent cancellations. LCM will cancel activities (including public activities using our space) when Omaha Public Schools cancel. The weather may also warrant the office closing so please call ahead.

Information Sharing Cont...

LCM | Pg. 19

Small Group ListingsTITLE DATE TIME LOCATION FACILITATORQuilt Tying 1st & 3rd Monday 9:30am E Fellowship Hall Shirley Falcone

Gab & Grow Starts Jan. 6 12:00pm W10/11 Shari Bevilacqua

Prayer Shawl Every Monday 1:00pm E21 Clara Tsai

The Book of Signs Every Tuesday 10:00am Pacific Springs Village Donna Holmquist

Men’s Breakfast Every Tuesday 6:30am W Narthex Pastor Lewis

Stephen Ministry Training Tue., Dec. 3 7:00pm E Fellowship Hall Carolyn Scheer

Mary Elizabeth Circle Tue., Dec. 10 9:15am E Fellowship Hall Char Smith

Horizons Wed., Dec. 11 10:00am E Fellowship Hall Don Schuler

*Wed. Women’s Connection Every Wednesday 6:00pm E8/9 Michelle Kalin

TGOW Starts Jan. 15 9:15am W Chapel & W10/11 Kellie Webb

Jesus Re-Discoverd Every Wednesday 6:00pm W Chapel Pastor Alejandre

*Pr. Tyler’s Bible Study Every Wednesday 6:00pm E Fellowship Hall Pastor Tyler

Pr. Tyler’s Bible Study Every Thursday 9:30am E Fellowship Hall Pastor Tyler

Pr. Tyler’s Bible Study Lunch Every Thursday 11:45am E Fellowship Hall Pastor Tyler

*Faith Full Moms Fri., Dec. 6 & 20 9:15am Jones Bros. (180th & Center) Clara Tsai

Friday Morning Bible Study Every Friday 9:30am E21 Chris Andersen

Christian Book Club Every Friday 12:00pm W10/11 Pastor Tyler

Panara Bible Study Sat., Dec. 7 & 21 8:00am 130th & Center Julee Mertz

*Morning Adult Study Every Sunday 9:00am E21 Pastor Schaff

Thinking Faith Every Sunday 10:30am Chapel Pastors

*“The Huddle” Every Sunday 10:30am East Pastors

* Nursery/Childcare AvailableIf there are any groups that are not shown here or any changes that need to be made, please

contact the church office. We would love to have the most up-to-date listing possible each month. Thank you!

LCM | Pg. 20

TGOW: Thanking God on WednesdaysWomen’s Bible Study - West Campus

Winter 2020 Registration

Jan. 15 - Mar. 25, 2020 | 9:15-11amThe Amazing Collection: The Bible Book by BookSets 10 & 11 (Philmon - Revelation)

The Amazing Collection is a DVD Bible study taught sequentially book by book. The semester we will be studying the last 10 books of the Bible. These books instructed the faithful in spiritual matters during times of heavy persecution and false teaching. Those following Christ today can be encouraged by the joy set before us all - the glory of His return and reign, when every knee will bow and tongue confess that Jesus is Lord.

$17 ($12 Study Guide/$5 Program Cost)

Overcoming by David Jeremiah

We all overcome obstacles - regardless of how big or small. But the Bible introduces a different kind of obstacle that we must be prepared to face - spiritual warfare. David Jeremiah uses Paul’s description of spiritual armor as an outline for exploring the Christian’s call to be an overcomer. This is not a technical description of Roman armor, but an applicational study of what it means to stand firm and overcome sin, the world, and the devil. In Christ, the believer has everything neces-sary to live victorious, overcoming life. When we “put on” Christ, we are putting on all the spiritual armor we need, not only to stand, but to overcome!

$15 ($10 Study Guide/$5 Program Cost)

Fill out registration form, include payment, and return to:LCM - West CampusTGOW - Kellie Webb

1200 N 181st Ct. | Elkhorn, NE 68022

Complete Registration and Payment Online at:lcm.church/tgow

Questions? Please contact Kellie Webbkellie.webb@lcm.church | 402-213-1893

TGOW REGISTRATION -- Cut Here:

Name:Address:City:Zip: Phone #:Email:Emergency Contact:Emergency Contact #:

Please Check:___ Amazing Collection___ Overcomer

Please Check:___ Paid with Cash___ Paid with Check___ Paid Online___ Do NOT need book

LCM | Pg. 21

Advent The most wonderful time of the year

Away in the MangerMidweek Advent Worship

@ East Campus

Join us for our midweekAdvent worship services,

Wednesdays (12pm & 7pm)December 4th, 11th & 18th

at the East Campus.

Entitled “Away in a Manger,” this Advent/Christmas

series is based in Scripture and brought to life with

beautiful mini-movies from Skit Guys. Offering the

perspectives of Isaiah (who foretold Jesus’ birth), as

well as the people who had encounters with the Christ child in Bethlehem. Mary, Joseph, a Wise Man, and a Shepherd each recount their experience with the

infant Savior.

Be blessed and encouraged as we sing and pray together, hear God’s Word, and celebrate Holy

Communion.

Advent Worship TimesMidweek

(Dec. 4, 11 & 18)

East Campus | 12pm & 7pm

Christmas EveEast Campus | 5pm, 8:30pm & 11pmWest Campus | 1:15pm, 3pm & 7pm

Christmas DayEast Campus | 10am

24 Ways to Pay it ForwardBe sure to check out our Facebook page or

Instagram (#LCMOmaha) to get your 24 Ways to Pay it Forward!

Budget & Annual MeetingBudget Information Meetings

West Campus | January 12 | 10:30amEast Campus | January 19 | 10:30am

Annual Congregational MeetingJanuary 26 | East Campus

1pm (Meet the Candidates)1:30pm (Meeting)

LCM | Pg. 22

LCM Happenings

WEDNESDAY WOMEN’S CONNECTIONBIBLE STUDY GROUPContact: Michelle Kalin /402-333-4444 / michelle.kalin@lcm.churchWednesdays | 6-7pm | East | E 8/9Our group is currently studying “Learning to Live a Balanced Life”, a Women of Faith series. We’d love to have you join us for Bible study, fellowship and service projects. We usually follow the LCM:Kids and Confirmation calendar.

GAB & GROWContact: Shari Bevilacqua /402-333-4444 / shari.bevilacqua@lcm.churchStarts Jan. 6 |Mondays | 12-1:30pm | West | W10/11Gab and Grow will begin meeting again on January 6. We will begin the study “The Faithful: Heroes of the Old Testament.” There is a study guide and video to complete the study.

This 5-session study explores crucial moments in the lives of five Old Testament figures—Esther, Gideon, Malachi, Nehemiah, and Hosea. Through their stories, discover how God uses the lives of ordinary people for His glory and the good of His people. Strengthen your faith as you

walk alongside these larger-than-life figures who all chose to obey God no matter the circumstances.

THINKING FAITHContact: Pr. Mario /402-333-4444Sundays | 10:30am | Chapel |West Thinking Faith will embark on a journey to discover how rich, diverse and important contributions of Christianity still inspire and encourage us to engage our world with honesty, grace and truth. The class begins with the C.S. Lewis’ classic, “The Screwtape Letters” as a starting point. Anyone interested in making better sense of the Christian faith and tackling hard questions is welcome to attend.

PR. TYLER’S BIBLE STUDY Fridays | 12pm | West |W10/11Join Pr. Tyler as they go through Philip L. Ostergard’s The Inspired Wisdom of Abraham Lincoln.Dec. 6 | Chapters 13-15Dec. 13 | Chapters 16-18Dec. 20 | Chapters 19-Con.Dec. 27 | Not Meeting

PRAYER SHAWLContact: Clara Tsai / 402-630-5583Mondays | 1-3pm | EastIf you are interested in learning or already know how to knit or crochet, come join the Prayer Shawl Ministry! We meet every Monday, 1-3 pm, at the East Campus, in the room across from the office. Supplies are provided unless you prefer your own yarn, needles and/or hooks.

ALTAR GUILD Contact: Nancy Tietsort / 402-330-0624 // Dugan Haver / 402-895-3842 Our Altar Guild helps with many tasks each week such as changing banners, setting up for communion and baptisms, filling candles, and decorating for church holidays. We rotate volunteers monthly so this only requires a small amount of time every few months. We would love to expand our list of volunteers.

ADULT BIBLE

STUDIES

HELPING HANDS

@ LCM

LCM | Pg. 23

FUNERAL COMMITTEE Contact: Church Office / 402-333-4444We are updating our list of willing members who would like to help serve at our funeral luncheons. Those offering will be on a rotation and will be called when a need arises. If you wish to serve others in this way, please call the church office and provide your name and phone number.

QUILT TYINGContact: Shirley Falcone / Church Office 402-333-44441st & 3rd Mondays | 9:30-11 | EastLooking for an excuse to have some fun, gather together for some time of fellowship and the chance to meet new people? The Quilt Tyers are seeking volunteers to help tie quilts. It’s a great reason to gather and work on this wonderfully beneficial project for a great cause. We look forward to meeting you.

HOLY COMMUNION VOLUNTEERSContact: Nikki Kotchka / 402-333-4444nikki.kotchka@lcm.churchCelebrating Holy Communion as a Congregation. Both the East and West Campuses have increased our frequency of celebrating Holy Communion from once a month to twice a month. As per the request of multiple congregational members at both campuses, our “new normal” will be to

celebrate the Lord’s Supper on the 1st and 3rd weekends of a given month. If you have any questions, please speak with your campus pastor. If you would like to help, volunteer by contacting the church office.

YOUTH FLEECE BLANKET TYINGContact: Shelly Oestmann /402-630-6349The East Campus M.S. & H.S. are going to be working on a Service Project making tied fleece blankets for members of the Empty Tomb Mission Church in South Omaha, whose members are primarily homeless individuals and families and the surrounding community. We are inviting those church members who would like to be a part of this to donate 2 pieces of fleece ( 1 ½ yards each) to make a fleece blanket. We will have a bin outside the sanctuary for you to place your donated items.

We invite you to join us the second and fourth Sundays of December, in the Youth Room where we will be tying the blankets.

We will take them down to the Empty Tomb end of December to present to those in need at that church.

CHRISTMAS USHERS NEEDED @ EASTContact: Church Office / 402-333-4444We once again need volunteers to help out during the Christmas Eve services on Tuesday, December 24, at East Campus. Sign up sheet will

be on the back bulletin board in the sanctuary. We also need volunteers for Christmas Morning at East.

PRAYER CHAIN CALL LISTContact: Church Office / 402-333-4444Would you like to be a link in our Prayer Chain ministry but you don’t have email access? We now have a volunteer who will make phone calls to pass on prayer requests to Prayer Chain members who don’t have email. Please call the office to be added to the list.

NURTURING NOURISHMENT MINISTRYContact: Co-Coordinators Jenny Hemmer / 402-980-5680 // Megan Zarembinski / m_oellner@hotmail.com // Marilee Buland / 402-778-0729Would you like to provide a meal for someone in need within our congregation? Our new meal ministry (Nurturing Nourishment) is getting started and we need LOTS of volunteers to provide meals for individuals/families experiencing illness, recent hospitalization, death in the family or a new baby, etc.Contact a Co-Coordinator or the church office (402-333-4444) if you’d like to help provide meals. A coordinator will then notify you when meals are needed.

HELPING OTHERS

@ LCM

HELPING OTHERS

FROM HOME

LCM | Pg. 24

LUTHERAN WORLD RELIEF - BACKPACKSContact: Jane McGowan /402-333-6630If you have been blessed with the gift of sewing, Lutheran World Relief could use your set of skills in putting together easily assembled backpacks for their ongoing project. We are also in need of some fabric. Please call Jane McGowan to set up a time and place to pick up materials.

SOCIAL CONCERNSGod Will Ministry Needs: Contact: Anthony Yates / 402-932-52972 full-sized beds, gaming consoles, dining room table & chairs and sofa sets - all in good working condition. TV Program at 9pm on Sunday’s on Channel 22.

Prayer Shawl Ministry: Contact: Clara Tsai / 402-630-5583Do you know someone ill or someone dealing with loss or trauma? Give them a prayer shawl, or learn to make one at a Monday knitting/crochet session from 1-3pm at the East Campus.

Project Hope: Please donate food items & clothing.

Senior Care Ministry: Contact: Char Repp / 402-639-3168Share your God-given-talents.

South Lutheran Pantry/Iglesia Cristiana: In need of peanut butter, macaroni and cheese and non-sweet cereal, and rice, brown beans, TP, soap & toothpaste

Stephen Center: There is an urgent need for clean pillows, new or used as well as pillow cases. Also in need of coffee. Please bring items to either campus.

FABRIC NEEDED FOR QUILTSContact: Shirley Falcone /402-333-4778Quilters are in need of fabric for liners and backing for quilts. We can use new or used sheets and cotton blend fabrics. If you are able to help, please drop off donations at either campus and place in the trunks located in the narthex.

BLOOD DRIVEContact: Shelly OestmannJan. 12 | East | 7am-1pmSave the date and help those in need by donating!

“November 12th was such a special day as Roxanne Senne and some board members from Project Hope loaded up 267 Thanksgiving bags from our church. Once again we express our sincere thanks to those of you who took the time to shop so that a number of less fortunate families will have food on the table at Thanksgiving. Lutheran Church of the Master has once again made a difference in the lives of others.”

Thank you so much & God Bless,Bob and Mary Lykke

“Thank you to everyone who donated and helped with the Health Kits for Lutheran World Relief. Everyone did a great job and all the items were ready to mail in about 30 minutes. We processed 60 kits! Good job!”

Boo Owen & Pam Burklund

“Thank you to all who purchased and/or served at the October Stephen Center meal. We served our usual 250 plus men, women and children. It was a cold and rainy day, but everyone seemed to be in a good mood. We always have a good time while we serve.

Thank you, also, for all the continued donations of clothes and pillows, personal items and coffee.”

Marilyn Stamm

THANK YOU

SPECIAL EVENTS

LCM | Pg. 25

We would like to give a shout out to all those who sewed the Lutheran World Relief Backpacks, to all who donated school supplies, to the middle and high school students who helped ready the school supplies, and to the members of Pastor’s Thursday Morning Bible Study who helped fill and pack the school kits. This was truly a team effort and we couldn’t have done it without everyone’s help!!!

We were able to assemble 155 school kits in September which were then shipped out at the beginning of November to needy children around the world. Thank you to LCM for furthering the Gospel message through this project!

We could really use everyone’s help on continuing to collect school supplies throughout the year for the Lutheran World Relief school kits as well as Samaritan’s Purse.

Christmas in a Shoebox and various other projects. Please keep your eyes open for those sale and clearance items. (We are currently in very short supply of rulers and children’s scissors, but we can put to good use any and all school and art supplies.) These can be dropped off at either church site, just label your bag LWR school supplies and drop in the church office at West or in the bin by the stained glass window/coffee pot at East. Thank you for your continued support!!

Questions? Pam Burklund 402-619-0405

THANK YOU

LCM | Pg. 26

He’s speaking ... are you listening?

Everyone is different; no two people are created alike - however we are ALL created in His image. It’s the fact that He’s our creator that we get to call Him our Father. And like most children, we are told to listen to our fathers.

I’m sure most of you would be able to pick out your father, or father-figure’s voice in a crowd. Being raised by my grandparents a good chunk of my life, I could pick out my grandfather’s voice among the many other members in church - made it easier to find him and drag him home so we could eat lunch.

We listen, hear and recognize our father’s voice, but could you say the same about our heavenly Father’s voice?

On my way to work, one morning, I was listening to a Christian music station when a listener called in to share his story. He began by stating that he had fallen away from his faith and was in a really bad place. One day he decided to go and have Chinese during lunch, which he confessed that he wasn’t the biggest fan of, but as tradition has it, he got his fortune cookie, opened it and found that infamous little piece of paper. However, what it said floored him, as well as me; “God can heal, all He asks for is our broken pieces.” The guy on the phone went on to say, “Really God? That’s how you’re going to get my attention?”

It was this man’s story that got me thinking; when people tell me that they can’t hear God or that God is not speaking to them even though they’re praying to Him ... are they really listening? God can speak to us in many different ways. For me, He’s gotten me to my knees in tears, He’s overwhelmed my thoughts, and He’s had friends and family tell me something that stirred my heart. When God has wanted to speak with me He made sure I heard.

God will sometimes speak to you in a whisper, or maybe He’ll wake you up and place someone on your mind. Sometimes He chooses to speak to you in your dreams, like He did with David or maybe He’ll have someone give you the answer you were looking for but told no one about. But just as we pick and choose the advice given to us by a friend, we ultimately make the choice on whether or not we want to listen to God’s voice.

Musings of a Morrison

Tasha MorrisonLCM Inspire Newsletter Editor

LCM | Pg. 27

P. 402.333.4444 | F. 402.333.4482 www.lcm.church

Ministry Staff:

Kip Tyler: C.402-651-0858 H.402-334-7152 Senior PastorJohn Lewis: C.402-598-3986 H.402-321-8232 Executive Pastor for MinistryMario Alejandre: C.801-597-4869 Campus Pastor (West)Jonathan Haseley: C.716-807-1370 Campus Pastor (East)Galen Greer: C.402-639-7265 Worship CoordinatorSteve Hemmer: C.402-689-9143 Youth & Family Coordinator (West)Chris Andersen: C.402-616-3198 Youth & Family Coordinator (East)Kellie Webb: C.402-213-1893 Children & Family Coordinator (West)Tracy Schmidt: C: 402-213-7585 Children & Family/Sudanese Coordinator (East)Alleluia! Preschool / Alleluia! Kindergarten: Debbie Lubker: Director/Teacher debbie.lubker@lcm.church

Sundays:Traditional Worship................................9:00 am Contemporary Worship........................9:00 am Contemporary Worship.......................10:30 am

Christmas WorshipChristmas Eve (Dec. 24)..... 1:15 pm, 3:00 pm & 7:00 pm

West Campus | 1200 N. 181st Court | Elkhorn, NE 68022

East Campus | 2617 S. 114th St. | Omaha, NE 68144

Saturday Traditional Worship..............5:30 pm

Sundays:Traditional Worship................................8:00 amTraditional Worship................................9:15 amNuer Language Worship Service .....1:00 pm

Advent WorshipMidweek (Dec. 4, 11 & 18) ............. 12:00 pm & 7:00 pm

Christmas WorshipChristmas Eve (Dec. 24)...5:00 pm, 8:30 pm & 11:00 pmChristmas Day (Dec. 25)................10:00 am

114th & Center Location2617 S 114th St.Omaha, NE 68144

LCMemberNeLCMOmaha

Support Staff:Shari Bevilacqua -- Church AdministratorJamison Denton-Carter -- Video ProductionConnie Hacker -- BookkeeperNikki Kotchka -- Receptionist (West)Diane Madsen -- “The Master Ringers” DirectorMichelle Kalin -- Connections CoordinatorJim McKay -- Maintenance TechnicianRob Meredith - Social Media SpecialistAnne Miller -- Chancel Choir DirectorTasha Morrison -- Receptionist (East)Ken Price -- Grounds MaintenanceVickie Wagner -- S.S. Superintendent (West)