I’m noticing a trend in our congregation. It’s possible that you or a family member is affected by this, too. There have been a lot more households in our church in which a grandparent or grandparents have taken on the role of primary caregiver to their grandkids. A lot of...
This summer, our congregation spent each week looking at the calling and response of the different disciples of Jesus. We covered the basics of each disciple (or follower, like Mary, Elizabeth, and Mary Magdalene) by asking the kids to play a game during the children’s message called...
One of my favorite parts of summer is the opportunity to get outside and explore. Camping ministry is what planted seeds in my own life to eventually become a pastor. Camp is where I spent most of my summers during college. It’s where I met my future wife. It’s where I love...
Recently, I returned from Bible Study at Keys Café when a visitor was waiting for me. Chuck Tollefsrud is a veteran and lives in Chisago City by himself. His injuries from serving our nation have had a lasting effect on his back and neck, but Chuck’s heart continues to grow stronger...
In the last week, it’s possible you’ve seen a new yard sign in front of homes in the Forest Lake area. Was your reaction, “Oh no, signs for the next election are up… already???” Don’t worry, that’s not what these signs are about. The yard signs declare...
Today is Earth Day. On the day after Easter, we celebrate God’s beautiful creation and how we all play a role in the stewardship of our earth for future generations. If you hear the word “stewardship,” you might immediately relate that term to money. Churches often hold a...
Hello Faith! Do you know what new members and prospective members say about Faith? Why do they keep coming back? It’s “the energy.” People sense that Faith Lutheran is poised for great things as a congregation and they want to be part of it. I can’t wait for everyone...
Matthew 25 is a story of Jesus as the "Undercover Boss". What is Faith Lutheran doing that you might not know about? Here's what happened when Pastor John went incognito to find out!
Funerals are an important part of the grieving process for a family that is saying goodbye to their loved one. The funeral for Meg Maurer, who was tragically killed by a runaway semi tire while standing between two parked vehicles at a rest stop in Mississippi, was an important part of the...
Food is a critical element to bring people together. Food and fellowship go hand in hand—this is especially true in a church. Food is also a critical element in our response to the needs of our neighbors. If someone is sick, we bring their family food. Schools ask for assistance?...