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Member News
Sts. Luke & James Lent Quiet Day: March 13
Save Saturday, March 13th for guided prayer and quiet, as well as reflection with your fellow parishioners. Come in and out during the day, joining us when you can, beginning at 10:00 am. A brief liturgy, music, reflection and meditation in the morning, will be followed by a mid-afternoon check-in, and end at 7:00 pm. A detailed agenda for the day will be in the next Epistle.
Complete Your Donation Commitment
As our Vestry works to finalize the 2021 budget, they need an accurate accounting of our expected revenue for the year. If you haven't completed a donation commitment form for this year, please do so now.
Re-Opening Talks Continue
At its meeting on Tuesday (February 23) your Staff talked at length about re-opening our church building for ministry. They took into consideration the facts that pandemic authorities are telling us that another wave of infections is likely on its way. As the staff weighs all of the appropriate information it is best that we continue to worship and meet online. But be assured that the discussion continues on a frequent and regular basis. And: if you can get a vaccine, take it!
Youth Formation Team Update
The Youth Formation Team met for the first time in 2021, with a Zoom meeting on February 6, 2021. Our focus was planning for family and youth ministry from Ash Wednesday to Easter. We decided to follow-up the Christmas season faith and activity bags with new bags for the Lent. Members of the team will be preparing materials, including Bible connections, art, music, movement, Godly Play and cooking activities for families to engage in for faith formation through the season. These bags will be delivered to 30 families from our congregation before Ash Wednesday. We enjoyed hearing each other’s stories of resurrection, and planning for children and youth from our varied talents and interests. Team Members: Sheila Foster, Liz Athorn, Fr. Larry Bussey, Rosemary Caspar, Danielle McCoy, Mary McKelvey, Rich Oswald, Louise Robinson, Karin Spencer.
Mailing List
During the current health emergency it will be especially important to be able to keep up on changes to activity times here at Sts. Luke & James. Please join our email list now!
(above) Our partners in Bonne Nouvelle, Haiti, send their Christmas greetings.
St. Luke's & St. James Have Consolidated!
On Sunday, June 7, 2020 the people of St. James on the Parkway and St. Luke's Episcopal voted to consolidate their congregations at 4557 Colfax Ave S in the current location of St. Luke's. You can read the full consolidation document here. We began worshiping together in July. Please join us for something new!
New Phone Number
We've had a lot of problems with our phone system. It badly needs an upgrade. We have a new phone number for a while. The number in the footer of our website, 612-524-9180, is the one you should be using until further notice. By the way, this is a mobile number so you can text us too.
Pastoral Care
We understand the importance of continuing to provide pastoral care and healing prayers for any in our community who are in need. If you have any pastoral needs, don’t hesitate to reach out to Rev Larry Bussey at 612-309-8896, or to Rev Morris Goodwin, or to Rev Gretchen Pickeral, lilmargret@gmail.com, 612-961-1154. We’ll be there for you.
Action Items
Events
Sunday Worship Available Online
We are continuing online worship at this time. At 9:30AM on Sunday mornings we will gather in a Zoom meeting to greet each other before the worship service (the Zoom link is available from our office at office@st-lukes.net or by joining our email list). At 10AM our worship service begins on YouTube and is available here. Then, at approximately 10:45AM we will return to Zoom for announcements and coffee hour.
Adult Learning Hour (Adult Forum)
We continue with the Episcopal church's seven-part Way of Love series. More than a program or a curriculum, it is an intentional commitment to a set of practices. It's a commitment to follow Jesus: turn, learn, pray, worship, bless, go and rest. Today's focus is on learning: reflect on Scriptures each day, especially on Jesus’ life and teachings. A brief film clip will be followed by break-out sessions with discussion questions. Adult Forum (Zoom) is at 11:15 each Sunday morning, immediately after YouTube worship and virtual announcements and coffee. Forum ends at noon.
Compline (Evening Prayers): 7PM Daily
During our time of separation, several of us have wanted to pray together "face-to-face" in the service of Daily Compline from the Book of Common Prayer. We are meeting on-line at 7PM each night here:
All are welcome to participate in this service (you do NOT need to be a member of our congregation) from your phone, tablet, or computer. You will be given the opportunity to join with audio & video, audio only, or just observe. It's helpful to have the Compline service open in your Book of Common Prayer, or to view the service text on your computer.
Late-Night Connection Group: Wednesdays at 9:00 PM
Wednesday Late night, 9:00 PM mid-week conversation, support, and prayer group. What keeps you up at night? A once a week opportunity to process your week in conversation and prayer in order to make it to our Sunday moment. Join Zoom Meeting
https://zoom.us/j/93450825748?pwd=STJ5V2xiWlh2MzBXNndKb2E3RWRHUT09
Meeting ID: 934 5082 5748
Passcode: 116681
Photo: We're meeting together online every week and more!
Connect
The Epistle
Each month we publish a newsletter that will help you get to know us, our people, our passions, and our opportunities for engagement. Please take a look at one of our recent editions.
| February 2021 Epistle | January 2021 Epistle | December 2020 Epistle | November 2020 Epistle | October 2020 Epistle | September 2020 Epistle | August 2020 Epistle | July 2020 Epistle |
Sermons
We will occasionally post written copies of weekly sermons here, less often when our worship is available online.
| August 23, 2020 | August 16, 2020 | August 9, 2020 |
Join Our Email List
Please consider adding yourself to our newsletter email list so we can provide you with up-to-the-minute worship opportunities and schedule changes during our stay-at-home time apart.
| Join our list |
Donations
During our separation we continue to maintain our building and to pay our staff. If your practice has been to make donations to Sts. Luke & James via the offering plate on Sundays, we urge you to consider making your donations online. Many of our parishioners have found it easiest to set up electronic funds transfers (EFT) by contacting our office. However, we welcome donations via credit card as well. Just use the button below to donate now.
Faith Formation / Education
Children & Youth
Children
We began as an Episcopal church school over 100 years ago, several years before we became a worshiping parish. Children and youth have been a major priority for us ever since. At Sts. Luke & James, our children feel welcome as important members of the parish. They connect with the Bible stories each Sunday through active lessons, as well as participate in worship. We are a home where young people can feel safe to ask the big questions and experience wonder and joy in God’s Creation and at church.
We recently surveyed our congregation, and “Children” made the Top 4 gifts list of our community. What sets us apart is that our kids interact with everyone. During services, events or coffee hours, you will often see Sts. Luke & James' kids cheerfully helping out, and that our young people are engaged with caring “uncles, aunts, and grandparents” in this community of Christ.
Children are welcome at the table during Communion.
Loving child care is provided—birth up to age five—when families want it, and they are welcome to stay in the service. When children fidget and make noise, parents may also get distracted. However, the rest of us are smiling, knowing that children are vitally present in our community.
Sunday school lessons are based on Gospel readings that are read in the service, and families are given tools to continue to share the readings during the rest of the week.
Children—age three to ten—experience “Godly Play.” In each session, the children first get their bodies ready, then enter into the Bible story, then are given time to wonder, move and respond to the story.
Youth
We can’t guarantee that it will be easy to wake your young people up on Sundays, but we can say confidently that they will feel welcome and won’t regret having walked through the door.
Youth in middle school and high school are given leadership opportunities. They can teach lessons with adult mentors. Like all of us, when youth teach other kids, they learn it more deeply themselves. They can also help direct the pageants, serve as lectors and acolytes, sing with the choir, play instruments, direct outreach projects, plan mission trips, take photographs for communications, lead as day camp counselors, and serve on the vestry.
When meeting as a youth group, teens explore what it means to be Christian (Episcopalian in particular) in our world of many faiths and lack of faith. Activities and discussions with respectful listening give our young adults more experience, peers, mentors and tools to reach with faith beyond St. Luke’s. How does our Christian identity play out in our decisions in the real world?
Young adults who choose to become confirmed in the Episcopal Church participate in a series of classes to give them the knowledge to make a more informed decision. We encourage this at or after age 16.
Most importantly, youth at Sts. Luke & James know that they will always have a church family with caring, supportive people to whom they can turn as they take the next steps through life; that the door is always open to them, even after graduation.
Adults
Adult Faith Formation
We provide Christian education for adults as well as children. We offer reading groups, seminars, workshops and other opportunities throughout the year. Learn more about church history, about the presence of God in our lives today and in the future, and how we all grow in our faith journey, though they may be very different from each other.
After Sunday Worship
We offer a lively discussion group each Sunday after the 10:00 a.m. service. This group discusses topics related to theology, spiritual practices or the history of religion among other topics. The members of the Sunday group select the themes to be explored.
Education for Ministry (EfM)
Education for Ministry or EfM, is a theological education program for lay adults. This course of study was developed by the School of Theology of the University of the South in Sewanee, Tennessee. The participants study the Bible, church history and theology, while learning to engage in theological reflection. Although the course consists of four years, participants commit to only one year at a time.
Our EfM groups meets on Tuesday nights at 7:00 p.m and Sunday afternoon at 1:00 p.m. from September through May. New members are accepted into the group each September.
Community of Hope
The Community of Hope is a 15-week class, offered by Sts. Luke & Jame and St. John’s – Linden Hills, whose goal is to broaden participants’ understanding of pastoral ministry and to cultivate a culture of pastoral care within congregations. The class runs from September through early January.
Worship Opportunities
Usher/Greeter
INTERIM Contact: Cathy Gier 952-926-0473
Email: cathyxchange@gmail.com
Ushers greet people as they enter the church and distribute service bulletins. They check pew racks before and after a service to remove old bulletins and leaflets and straighten out books. Sometime after the service has started, they count the number of attendees. Ushers bring the bread and wine to the altar from the back of the church, assist with the offering by passing the plate and directing people to communion stations. A short 20 minute training can be done 20 minutes before a service, which is when Ushers normally arrive. Ushers serve in teams of 4 and are scheduled according to their availability and usually serve every 5 weeks or so.
Acolyte
Contact: Deacon Morris Goodwin Jr. 612-991-7673
Email: deaconmorrisg@st-lukes.net
Acolytes set the tone for the procession and recession of worship services, the reading of the Gospel, and perform a number of tasks throughout the service as directed by the celebrant or deacon. One acolyte serves as the crucifer and leads the procession and recession. Two other acolytes typically carry the torches. Acolytes also assist with preparing the altar, handling offering plates, and distribution of wine at communion. During festivals or holy days, acolytes can also serve as thurifers. Deacon Morris provides training. Acolytes are scheduled according to their availability and typically serve every 5 weeks or so.
Altar Guild
Contact: Ruth Anderson 612-822-9803 home 612-889-8933 cell
Email: ruthanderson@usiwireless.com
Altar Guild changes the altar and sanctuary space according to the church calendar/season, prepares and sets up the gifts for services. They make sure there are extra wafers, wine, candles, etc. for the altar. They also wash and clean the altar linens. The Altar Guild acts under the direction of our Rector and is responsible to make sure the altar is ready weekly. New Altar Guild members are trained by shadowing experienced members. The Altar Guild works in teams of 3-5 members who serve every 4 weeks.
Lector/Reader
Contact: Deacon Morris Goodwin Jr. 612-991-7673
Email: deaconmorrisg@st-lukes.net
Lector/Readers read the appointed lessons and prayers. They also assist with the distribution of wine at communion. Lectors/Readers review their appointed readings ahead of time. If reading the Prayers of the People, they check the list of names on the white board in the lobby with the list at the Lectern and make revisions as needed. This is a licensed position in the Episcopal Church, and Deacon Maureen provides a 40 minute training. Lectors/Readers are scheduled according to their availability and typically serve every 5 weeks or so.
Prayers of the People Writer
Contact: Deacon Morris Goodwin Jr. 612-991-7673
Email: deaconmorrisg@st-lukes.net
Prayers of the People are written by members of St. Luke’s after a 1-hour training by Deacon Maureen and with written guidance for the formulary and options. Prayer Writers are mentored by Deacon Maureen. Prayer Writers typically volunteer to write prayers once or twice a year.
Communion Bread Baker
Contact: Kathy Robinson 612-719-8074 Email: ckrobi43@gmail.com
St. Luke’s uses several recipes for making communion bread. Bread Bakers follow
one of those recipes and delivers two small round loaves to the church 20 minutes before
the service begins on their assigned Sunday. You may want to bake bread for a Sunday that is meaningful to you. Communion Bread Bakers are scheduled according to their availability and typically serve every 5 weeks or so.
Eucharistic Minister
Contact: Deacon Morris Goodwin Jr. 612-991-7673
Email: deaconmorrisg@st-lukes.net
The responsibilities of the Eucharistic Minister are to assist in the distribution of the elements in a Celebration of the Holy Eucharist. A Eucharistic Minister acts under the direction of our Deacon or Rector. This is a licensed position in the Episcopal Church and training is offered annually by Deacon Maureen. Eucharistic Ministers are scheduled according to their availability and typically serve every 5 weeks or so.
Eucharistic Visitor
Contact: Deacon Morris Goodwin Jr. 612-991-7673
Email: deaconmorrisg@st-lukes.net
A Eucharistic Visitor is a lay person who may bring and share the consecrated elements with members of St. Luke’s who have requested it. When directed by our Deacon or Rector, the Eucharistic Visitor may take the consecrated elements to persons who are not members of the faith community. The training and duties carried out by the Eucharistic Visitor are supervised /monitored by our Deacon and Rector. This is a licensed position in the Episcopal Church, and training is offered annually by Deacon Maureen. Eucharistic Visitors are scheduled according to their availability and typically serve as there is a need.
Lay Preacher
Contact: Interim Priest 612-824-2697
Email: office@st-lukes.net
A Lay Preacher is a lay person who is authorized to preach under the direction of our Rector. The tasks of a preacher are to study the scripture texts, do research needed to illuminate those texts, and with the help of the Holy Spirit and inner process, prepare a sermon to give publicly to the faith community: What does God want us to know on this day, at this time, through this text? What does the faith community need to hear? Lay Preachers are scheduled according to their availability and direction and mentoring of our Rector.
Worship Planning and Vision
Contact: Cathy Gier 952-926-0473
Email: cathyxchange@gmail.com
Quarterly meetings are led by our Rector to plan worship. These meetings are for logistical purposes and include ministry areas involved in worship such as Greeters/Ushers, Acolytes, Altar Guild, Readers, and Music. The vestry representative for Worship is the liaison between this group and the vestry. Quarterly meetings last 1 hour and are open to those interested in how worship services are designed.
INTERIM Contact: Cathy Gier 952-926-0473
Email: cathyxchange@gmail.com
Ushers greet people as they enter the church and distribute service bulletins. They check pew racks before and after a service to remove old bulletins and leaflets and straighten out books. Sometime after the service has started, they count the number of attendees. Ushers bring the bread and wine to the altar from the back of the church, assist with the offering by passing the plate and directing people to communion stations. A short 20 minute training can be done 20 minutes before a service, which is when Ushers normally arrive. Ushers serve in teams of 4 and are scheduled according to their availability and usually serve every 5 weeks or so.
Acolyte
Contact: Deacon Morris Goodwin Jr. 612-991-7673
Email: deaconmorrisg@st-lukes.net
Acolytes set the tone for the procession and recession of worship services, the reading of the Gospel, and perform a number of tasks throughout the service as directed by the celebrant or deacon. One acolyte serves as the crucifer and leads the procession and recession. Two other acolytes typically carry the torches. Acolytes also assist with preparing the altar, handling offering plates, and distribution of wine at communion. During festivals or holy days, acolytes can also serve as thurifers. Deacon Morris provides training. Acolytes are scheduled according to their availability and typically serve every 5 weeks or so.
Altar Guild
Contact: Ruth Anderson 612-822-9803 home 612-889-8933 cell
Email: ruthanderson@usiwireless.com
Altar Guild changes the altar and sanctuary space according to the church calendar/season, prepares and sets up the gifts for services. They make sure there are extra wafers, wine, candles, etc. for the altar. They also wash and clean the altar linens. The Altar Guild acts under the direction of our Rector and is responsible to make sure the altar is ready weekly. New Altar Guild members are trained by shadowing experienced members. The Altar Guild works in teams of 3-5 members who serve every 4 weeks.
Lector/Reader
Contact: Deacon Morris Goodwin Jr. 612-991-7673
Email: deaconmorrisg@st-lukes.net
Lector/Readers read the appointed lessons and prayers. They also assist with the distribution of wine at communion. Lectors/Readers review their appointed readings ahead of time. If reading the Prayers of the People, they check the list of names on the white board in the lobby with the list at the Lectern and make revisions as needed. This is a licensed position in the Episcopal Church, and Deacon Maureen provides a 40 minute training. Lectors/Readers are scheduled according to their availability and typically serve every 5 weeks or so.
Prayers of the People Writer
Contact: Deacon Morris Goodwin Jr. 612-991-7673
Email: deaconmorrisg@st-lukes.net
Prayers of the People are written by members of St. Luke’s after a 1-hour training by Deacon Maureen and with written guidance for the formulary and options. Prayer Writers are mentored by Deacon Maureen. Prayer Writers typically volunteer to write prayers once or twice a year.
Communion Bread Baker
Contact: Kathy Robinson 612-719-8074 Email: ckrobi43@gmail.com
St. Luke’s uses several recipes for making communion bread. Bread Bakers follow
one of those recipes and delivers two small round loaves to the church 20 minutes before
the service begins on their assigned Sunday. You may want to bake bread for a Sunday that is meaningful to you. Communion Bread Bakers are scheduled according to their availability and typically serve every 5 weeks or so.
Eucharistic Minister
Contact: Deacon Morris Goodwin Jr. 612-991-7673
Email: deaconmorrisg@st-lukes.net
The responsibilities of the Eucharistic Minister are to assist in the distribution of the elements in a Celebration of the Holy Eucharist. A Eucharistic Minister acts under the direction of our Deacon or Rector. This is a licensed position in the Episcopal Church and training is offered annually by Deacon Maureen. Eucharistic Ministers are scheduled according to their availability and typically serve every 5 weeks or so.
Eucharistic Visitor
Contact: Deacon Morris Goodwin Jr. 612-991-7673
Email: deaconmorrisg@st-lukes.net
A Eucharistic Visitor is a lay person who may bring and share the consecrated elements with members of St. Luke’s who have requested it. When directed by our Deacon or Rector, the Eucharistic Visitor may take the consecrated elements to persons who are not members of the faith community. The training and duties carried out by the Eucharistic Visitor are supervised /monitored by our Deacon and Rector. This is a licensed position in the Episcopal Church, and training is offered annually by Deacon Maureen. Eucharistic Visitors are scheduled according to their availability and typically serve as there is a need.
Lay Preacher
Contact: Interim Priest 612-824-2697
Email: office@st-lukes.net
A Lay Preacher is a lay person who is authorized to preach under the direction of our Rector. The tasks of a preacher are to study the scripture texts, do research needed to illuminate those texts, and with the help of the Holy Spirit and inner process, prepare a sermon to give publicly to the faith community: What does God want us to know on this day, at this time, through this text? What does the faith community need to hear? Lay Preachers are scheduled according to their availability and direction and mentoring of our Rector.
Worship Planning and Vision
Contact: Cathy Gier 952-926-0473
Email: cathyxchange@gmail.com
Quarterly meetings are led by our Rector to plan worship. These meetings are for logistical purposes and include ministry areas involved in worship such as Greeters/Ushers, Acolytes, Altar Guild, Readers, and Music. The vestry representative for Worship is the liaison between this group and the vestry. Quarterly meetings last 1 hour and are open to those interested in how worship services are designed.
Music Opportunities
Choir
Contact: Larry Reynolds 952-201-9450 cell
Email: larryreynolds52@gmail.com
The choir is comprised of a variety of voices who enjoy singing and want to grow in that ability. Potential singers audition with our Director of Music Ministries Larry Reynolds. Choir rehearses every Wednesday evening from mid-September to Pentecost at 7-8:30 and again on Sunday mornings at 9:15. From June through mid-September, parishioners are invited to be a part of the summer choir for one or more occasions. They rehearse on Sunday mornings at 9:15.
Instrumentalist
Contact: Larry Reynolds 952-201-9450 cell
Email: larryreynolds52@gmail.com
Musicians of all levels are encouraged to audition with Director of Music Ministries Larry Reynolds. Instrumentalists usually perform in small ensembles and are scheduled according to availability and service music needs. Serving as an instrumentalist involves some additional time for rehearsals including 8:30 am before a Sunday worship service.
Bells
Contact: Larry Reynolds 952-201-9450 cell
Email: larryreynolds52@gmail.com
The Bells Ensemble is comprised of individuals who enjoy making music as a group and want to grow in that ability. Speak with our Director of Music Ministries Larry Reynolds about playing with this group. Rehearsals are on Thursday evenings at 6:30 from mid- September through Pentecost. The Bells perform at Sunday worship services various times throughout the year. When performing, there is an additional rehearsal at 8:30 am before a Sunday worship service.
Recorders
Contact: Larry Reynolds 952-201-9450 cell
Email: larryreynolds52@gmail.com
The Recorders Ensemble is comprised of individuals who enjoy making music as a group and want to grow in that ability. Speak with our Director of Music Ministries Larry Reynolds about playing with this group. Rehearsals are on Thursday evenings at 7:30 from mid- September through Pentecost. The Recorders perform at Sunday worship services various times throughout the year. There is an additional rehearsal at 8:30 am Sunday mornings when they are performing at a Sunday worship service.
Contact: Larry Reynolds 952-201-9450 cell
Email: larryreynolds52@gmail.com
The choir is comprised of a variety of voices who enjoy singing and want to grow in that ability. Potential singers audition with our Director of Music Ministries Larry Reynolds. Choir rehearses every Wednesday evening from mid-September to Pentecost at 7-8:30 and again on Sunday mornings at 9:15. From June through mid-September, parishioners are invited to be a part of the summer choir for one or more occasions. They rehearse on Sunday mornings at 9:15.
Instrumentalist
Contact: Larry Reynolds 952-201-9450 cell
Email: larryreynolds52@gmail.com
Musicians of all levels are encouraged to audition with Director of Music Ministries Larry Reynolds. Instrumentalists usually perform in small ensembles and are scheduled according to availability and service music needs. Serving as an instrumentalist involves some additional time for rehearsals including 8:30 am before a Sunday worship service.
Bells
Contact: Larry Reynolds 952-201-9450 cell
Email: larryreynolds52@gmail.com
The Bells Ensemble is comprised of individuals who enjoy making music as a group and want to grow in that ability. Speak with our Director of Music Ministries Larry Reynolds about playing with this group. Rehearsals are on Thursday evenings at 6:30 from mid- September through Pentecost. The Bells perform at Sunday worship services various times throughout the year. When performing, there is an additional rehearsal at 8:30 am before a Sunday worship service.
Recorders
Contact: Larry Reynolds 952-201-9450 cell
Email: larryreynolds52@gmail.com
The Recorders Ensemble is comprised of individuals who enjoy making music as a group and want to grow in that ability. Speak with our Director of Music Ministries Larry Reynolds about playing with this group. Rehearsals are on Thursday evenings at 7:30 from mid- September through Pentecost. The Recorders perform at Sunday worship services various times throughout the year. There is an additional rehearsal at 8:30 am Sunday mornings when they are performing at a Sunday worship service.
Healing Opportunities
Order of St. Luke’s
Contact: Sarah Sivright 612-965-1570
Email: sarahsivright@aol.com
In the beginning days of the Healing Ministry, a group met monthly to study the biblical foundations of Jesus’ healing ministry to become eligible to join the Order of St. Luke (OSL) as an official chapter. We have accomplished that goal and now no longer meet regularly. However, we always welcome new members to join any of our Healing Ministries. A new OSL training can begin when we have a cohort of interested persons. We communicate by email to distribute prayer lists and communicate any other important ministry business.
Healing Service
Contact: Sarah Sivright 612-965-1570
Email: sarahsivright@aol.com
St. Luke’s hosts a healing prayer service on the second Tuesday of the month at 7pm in the Nave of the church. Healing team members arrive 20 minutes early to prepare the space for worship and group prayer and return the area to its previous condition afterwards.
Healing Minister
Contact: Sarah Sivright 612-965-1570
Email: sarahsivright@aol.com
Working in pairs, the healing ministers offer individual prayer, laying on of hands, and anointing during communion to anyone desiring prayers.
Prayer Shawls and Squares
Contact: Ruth Anderson 612-825-5533
Email: ruthanderson@usiwireless.com
Interested knitters meet to knit and crochet together when our supply of prayer shawls and prayer squares need to be replenished. The group expects to meet again later in the summer or in the fall.
Contact: Sarah Sivright 612-965-1570
Email: sarahsivright@aol.com
In the beginning days of the Healing Ministry, a group met monthly to study the biblical foundations of Jesus’ healing ministry to become eligible to join the Order of St. Luke (OSL) as an official chapter. We have accomplished that goal and now no longer meet regularly. However, we always welcome new members to join any of our Healing Ministries. A new OSL training can begin when we have a cohort of interested persons. We communicate by email to distribute prayer lists and communicate any other important ministry business.
Healing Service
Contact: Sarah Sivright 612-965-1570
Email: sarahsivright@aol.com
St. Luke’s hosts a healing prayer service on the second Tuesday of the month at 7pm in the Nave of the church. Healing team members arrive 20 minutes early to prepare the space for worship and group prayer and return the area to its previous condition afterwards.
Healing Minister
Contact: Sarah Sivright 612-965-1570
Email: sarahsivright@aol.com
Working in pairs, the healing ministers offer individual prayer, laying on of hands, and anointing during communion to anyone desiring prayers.
Prayer Shawls and Squares
Contact: Ruth Anderson 612-825-5533
Email: ruthanderson@usiwireless.com
Interested knitters meet to knit and crochet together when our supply of prayer shawls and prayer squares need to be replenished. The group expects to meet again later in the summer or in the fall.
Community / Hospitality Opportunities
Sunday Coffee Hour
Contact: Rayne West 763-443-1184
Email: queenbee.west7@gmail.com
Parishioners gather in the library to visit and get better acquainted after every Sunday service. Coffee, tea, and an assortment of sweet/savory items are key ingredients to this socializing. Teams of 3 or 4 procure food (home cooked or store bought), set up buffet, put the coffee on, host the event and clean up afterwards. Currently there are 4 teams that serve every 3 or 4 weeks. The group is very flexible in revising the schedule.
Receptions/Church Party Hosting
Contact: Candy LaBarre 612-760-8221
Email: candy1950@q.com
Every social event involves planning and hosting. This team plans and hosts events and makes sure there are people available to help setup, bring food, entertainment if needed, and clean-up after the event. There is a core team of experienced volunteers who train in new persons. People volunteer for 1 or more events in a year.
Funeral/Memorial Service Receptions
Contact: Char Carlson 952-830-0004
Email: alcharcarlson@gmail.com
Whenever a funeral/memorial service is scheduled, our Rector contacts the lead person who then contacts the family to discuss what they would like for the reception such as food and beverages, colors of napkins, flowers, etc. A notice then goes into the weekly ENews asking for donations of food. On the day of the service, teams of 2-3 to greet the family, set up, and host the reception and clean up afterwards. Team members arrive 2 hours before the service. Newer team members are always paired with experienced funeral/memorial service team members. Team members are scheduled according to their availability.
Wedding Coordination
Contact: Kathy Robinson 612-719-8074
Email: ckrobi43@gmail.com
Whenever a wedding is scheduled, our Rector contacts the lead person on the wedding coordination team, who then meets with the bride and groom to discuss details of the ceremony such as flowers, decorations, and composition of the wedding party. Once the arrangements are in place, the lead person briefs the assigned team, which includes experienced with newer members of the group. The team attends the rehearsal to greet participants, help the Rector, and answer questions. On the day of the wedding, team members arrive 2 hours before the service to assist where needed until the procession begins. Following the wedding, team members prepare the church for Sunday morning services. Newer team members are always paired with experienced wedding coordination team members. Wedding teams are scheduled according to their availability.
Dinner of Seven
Contact: Candy LaBarre 612-760-8221
Email: candy1950@q.com
St. Luke’s sponsors a Dinner of Seven approximately every 12 months as a fun way for parishioners to get to know each other in small groups away from church. The group composition is changed every year. The Vestry representative for Community Live
or another individual promotes and creates the groups once everyone who is interested has signed up to be in the new cycle. Organizing this ministry is a once a year project and requires attention for 3-4 weeks.
Newcomer Activities
Contact: Cathy Gier 952-926-0473
Email: cathyxchange@gmail.com
St. Luke’s sponsors a luncheon after Sunday Worship 2-3 times a year as a way for Newcomers and St. Luke’s to get to know each other better. A group of 2-3 individuals organizes and hosts this event.
Community Live Planning and Vision
Contact: Candy LaBarre 612-760-8221
Email: candy1950@q.com
This group organizes and coordinates fellowship events for the church. They oversee events to make sure there are people available to help setup tables, people to make or bring food, entertainment if needed, and people to clean up after the event. This group meets quarterly to make future plans.
Contact: Rayne West 763-443-1184
Email: queenbee.west7@gmail.com
Parishioners gather in the library to visit and get better acquainted after every Sunday service. Coffee, tea, and an assortment of sweet/savory items are key ingredients to this socializing. Teams of 3 or 4 procure food (home cooked or store bought), set up buffet, put the coffee on, host the event and clean up afterwards. Currently there are 4 teams that serve every 3 or 4 weeks. The group is very flexible in revising the schedule.
Receptions/Church Party Hosting
Contact: Candy LaBarre 612-760-8221
Email: candy1950@q.com
Every social event involves planning and hosting. This team plans and hosts events and makes sure there are people available to help setup, bring food, entertainment if needed, and clean-up after the event. There is a core team of experienced volunteers who train in new persons. People volunteer for 1 or more events in a year.
Funeral/Memorial Service Receptions
Contact: Char Carlson 952-830-0004
Email: alcharcarlson@gmail.com
Whenever a funeral/memorial service is scheduled, our Rector contacts the lead person who then contacts the family to discuss what they would like for the reception such as food and beverages, colors of napkins, flowers, etc. A notice then goes into the weekly ENews asking for donations of food. On the day of the service, teams of 2-3 to greet the family, set up, and host the reception and clean up afterwards. Team members arrive 2 hours before the service. Newer team members are always paired with experienced funeral/memorial service team members. Team members are scheduled according to their availability.
Wedding Coordination
Contact: Kathy Robinson 612-719-8074
Email: ckrobi43@gmail.com
Whenever a wedding is scheduled, our Rector contacts the lead person on the wedding coordination team, who then meets with the bride and groom to discuss details of the ceremony such as flowers, decorations, and composition of the wedding party. Once the arrangements are in place, the lead person briefs the assigned team, which includes experienced with newer members of the group. The team attends the rehearsal to greet participants, help the Rector, and answer questions. On the day of the wedding, team members arrive 2 hours before the service to assist where needed until the procession begins. Following the wedding, team members prepare the church for Sunday morning services. Newer team members are always paired with experienced wedding coordination team members. Wedding teams are scheduled according to their availability.
Dinner of Seven
Contact: Candy LaBarre 612-760-8221
Email: candy1950@q.com
St. Luke’s sponsors a Dinner of Seven approximately every 12 months as a fun way for parishioners to get to know each other in small groups away from church. The group composition is changed every year. The Vestry representative for Community Live
or another individual promotes and creates the groups once everyone who is interested has signed up to be in the new cycle. Organizing this ministry is a once a year project and requires attention for 3-4 weeks.
Newcomer Activities
Contact: Cathy Gier 952-926-0473
Email: cathyxchange@gmail.com
St. Luke’s sponsors a luncheon after Sunday Worship 2-3 times a year as a way for Newcomers and St. Luke’s to get to know each other better. A group of 2-3 individuals organizes and hosts this event.
Community Live Planning and Vision
Contact: Candy LaBarre 612-760-8221
Email: candy1950@q.com
This group organizes and coordinates fellowship events for the church. They oversee events to make sure there are people available to help setup tables, people to make or bring food, entertainment if needed, and people to clean up after the event. This group meets quarterly to make future plans.
Pastoral Care
Meal Preparation
Contact: Charlotte Carlson 952-830-0004
Email: alcharcarlson@gmail.com
When a parishioner is in need of meals, one person from this group is assigned to orchestrate the process. Often calls for this ministry come from our Rector or the Church Office. When awareness of the need comes from elsewhere in the parish, the Rector is kept informed. Individuals are contacted and volunteer to prepare and deliver a meal/meals as they are able.
Transportation
Contact: Michele Krakowski 651-210-1778
Email: michelekrakowskisd@gmail.com
When a parishioner is in need of help with transportation, one person from this group is assigned to orchestrate the process. Often calls for this ministry come from our Rector or the Church Office. When awareness of the need comes from elsewhere in the parish, the Rector is kept informed. Individuals are contacted and volunteers to drive as they are able.
Friendly Visitor
Contact: Gretchen Pickeral 612-961-1154
Email: lilmargret@gmail.com
When a parishioner is in need of a friendly visitor, one person from this group is assigned to make the visit and make recommendations to plan for future visits. Often calls for this ministry come from our Rector or the Church Office. When awareness of the need comes from elsewhere in the parish, the Rector is kept informed. Friendly visitors volunteer their time as they are able and after completing a training course.
Episcopal Church Home Visits
Contact: Sarah Sivright 612-965-1570
Email: sarahsivright@aol.com
Every other month, two Healing Ministers visit the Episcopal Church Home, at 1879 Feronia Avenue, Saint Paul, to participate in a Sunday afternoon healing service for the residents. The service is led by our OSL chaplain, Mary Gustafson, St. Luke’s Healing Ministers contribute readings for the service and participate in leading prayers and hymns. At the end of the service, the Healing Ministers along with our Chaplain pray with each resident. Any former St. Luke’s parishioners are also visited in their rooms or brought to the service. The time commitment is less than 2 hours. We gather residents from 2:30-3:00 for the half-hour service and then return residents to their rooms. New volunteers can show up and help as long as they are accompanied by a volunteer that has passed the background check and volunteer application process through Episcopal
Homes. Regular volunteers need to fill out an application, background check and get a name badge.
Edenbrook of Edina Worship Service
Contact: Candy LaBarre 612-760-8221
Email: candy1950@q.com
On the first Sunday of the month, this ministry leads a worship service at 2:30 in the afternoon for 8-12 residents of Edenbrook of Edina, 6200 Xerxes Avenue South, Edina, a skilled nursing facility. The 40 minute service is guided by a worship leaflet, accompanied by piano and old-time hymns. New volunteers could read scripture lessons, Prayers of the People, play piano, or assist distributing communion. This service is done in conjunction with volunteers from St. Stephen’s, Edina.
Pastoral Care Planning and Vision
Contact: Gretchen Pickeral 612-961-1154
Email: lilmargret@gmail.com
A group of people are meeting to consider what this ministry will look like at St. Luke’s. Currently, they are gathering for this purpose about once a month for 1 hour after church.
Contact: Charlotte Carlson 952-830-0004
Email: alcharcarlson@gmail.com
When a parishioner is in need of meals, one person from this group is assigned to orchestrate the process. Often calls for this ministry come from our Rector or the Church Office. When awareness of the need comes from elsewhere in the parish, the Rector is kept informed. Individuals are contacted and volunteer to prepare and deliver a meal/meals as they are able.
Transportation
Contact: Michele Krakowski 651-210-1778
Email: michelekrakowskisd@gmail.com
When a parishioner is in need of help with transportation, one person from this group is assigned to orchestrate the process. Often calls for this ministry come from our Rector or the Church Office. When awareness of the need comes from elsewhere in the parish, the Rector is kept informed. Individuals are contacted and volunteers to drive as they are able.
Friendly Visitor
Contact: Gretchen Pickeral 612-961-1154
Email: lilmargret@gmail.com
When a parishioner is in need of a friendly visitor, one person from this group is assigned to make the visit and make recommendations to plan for future visits. Often calls for this ministry come from our Rector or the Church Office. When awareness of the need comes from elsewhere in the parish, the Rector is kept informed. Friendly visitors volunteer their time as they are able and after completing a training course.
Episcopal Church Home Visits
Contact: Sarah Sivright 612-965-1570
Email: sarahsivright@aol.com
Every other month, two Healing Ministers visit the Episcopal Church Home, at 1879 Feronia Avenue, Saint Paul, to participate in a Sunday afternoon healing service for the residents. The service is led by our OSL chaplain, Mary Gustafson, St. Luke’s Healing Ministers contribute readings for the service and participate in leading prayers and hymns. At the end of the service, the Healing Ministers along with our Chaplain pray with each resident. Any former St. Luke’s parishioners are also visited in their rooms or brought to the service. The time commitment is less than 2 hours. We gather residents from 2:30-3:00 for the half-hour service and then return residents to their rooms. New volunteers can show up and help as long as they are accompanied by a volunteer that has passed the background check and volunteer application process through Episcopal
Homes. Regular volunteers need to fill out an application, background check and get a name badge.
Edenbrook of Edina Worship Service
Contact: Candy LaBarre 612-760-8221
Email: candy1950@q.com
On the first Sunday of the month, this ministry leads a worship service at 2:30 in the afternoon for 8-12 residents of Edenbrook of Edina, 6200 Xerxes Avenue South, Edina, a skilled nursing facility. The 40 minute service is guided by a worship leaflet, accompanied by piano and old-time hymns. New volunteers could read scripture lessons, Prayers of the People, play piano, or assist distributing communion. This service is done in conjunction with volunteers from St. Stephen’s, Edina.
Pastoral Care Planning and Vision
Contact: Gretchen Pickeral 612-961-1154
Email: lilmargret@gmail.com
A group of people are meeting to consider what this ministry will look like at St. Luke’s. Currently, they are gathering for this purpose about once a month for 1 hour after church.
Faith in Action
First Nations Kitchen
Contact: Lisa Logelin 612-306-3762
Email: lisa.logelin@gmail.com
First Nations Kitchen is primarily a justice focused, gospel-based ministry led by indigenous people for indigenous people. It is located at All Saints Episcopal Church, 3044 Longfellow Avenue, Minneapolis. It provides high quality, fresh organic food in an environment of radical hospitality and cultural empowerment every Sunday evening. St. Luke’s is one of their partner churches that sends volunteers to prepare, serve and clean up on selected Sundays throughout the year. Volunteers work 3-4 hours shifts. It is on the job training and new volunteers are paired up with those with more experience.
Refugee Backpack Program
Contact: Ellen Frerich 612-730-2768
Email: Ellen.Seagren@gmail.com
St. Luke’s works with Lutheran Social Services to provide backpacks and school supplies to Newly arrive refugees and immigrants every summer. The project always needs one person to promote and organize, and another to deliver the filled backpacks. This project requires 4 weeks of attention once a year during the summer. Anyone interested in helping with this ministry can shadow the experienced leadership.
Food Box
Contact: Barb Buehl 952-944-5446 Home 952-826-9965 Cell
Email: barbarabuehl@yahoo.com
St. Lukes has a food box on 46th Street and maintains a supply of shelf stable food products for anyone in need. St. Lukans sign up to be responsible for bringing groceries to church and filling up the box on a weekly or monthly basis. The cost commitment is approximately $20 for a week or $80 for a month. Sign up as you are able on the lobby bulletin board.
Haiti Efforts
Contact: Barb Buehl 952-944-5446 Home 952-826-9965 Cell
Email: barbarabuehl@yahoo.com
St. Luke’s has had a long commitment to the people of Haiti, primarily supporting school lunches. Recently, St.Luke’s decided to take a different approach and is educating the parish about partnering with Plant With Purpose, an international nonprofit, headquartered in San Diego. Their program has successfully broken the cycle of poverty in many rural communities. Plant With Purpose has worked in Haiti since 1997 and has a good track record. This ministry meets quarterly to educate ourselves about Haiti and to plan fundraising efforts.
Care for Creation/Environment
Contact: Barb Buehl 952-944-5446 Home 952-826-9965 Cell
Email: barbarabuehl@yahoo.com
The National Church, ECUSA, is encouraging parishes to renew the environment. St. Luke’s has a committee looking into revamping our environmental stewardship. This is a new ministry and in the planning stages. The group meets monthly to explore what this might look like for St. Luke’s.
TRUST South Minneapolis Coalition
Contact: Barb Buehl 952-944-5446 Home 952-826-9965 Cell
Email: barbarabuehl@yahoo.com
Trust is a coalition of faith organizations in the South Metro area that provide services to seniors and others in need such as Chore programs, Meals on Wheels, Estates Sales, grocery delivery, plumbing, heating, cooking help, and grief support with volunteer help, grants, and donations. Persons wishing to volunteer their time and talent in service to our neighbors through TRUST programs works directly with TRUST as their schedule allows. St. Luke’s is a coalition member. Barb Buehl currently serves on the Board of Directors which meets monthly.
Faith in Action Planning and Vision
Contact: Barb Buehl 952-944-5446 Home 952-826-9965 Cell
Email: barbarabuehl@yahoo.com
Faith in Action Committee members meet quarterly to consider activities and envision future efforts. Those interested in considering how St. Luke’s can put faith in action are invited attend our next meeting, which usually lasts about one hour.
Contact: Lisa Logelin 612-306-3762
Email: lisa.logelin@gmail.com
First Nations Kitchen is primarily a justice focused, gospel-based ministry led by indigenous people for indigenous people. It is located at All Saints Episcopal Church, 3044 Longfellow Avenue, Minneapolis. It provides high quality, fresh organic food in an environment of radical hospitality and cultural empowerment every Sunday evening. St. Luke’s is one of their partner churches that sends volunteers to prepare, serve and clean up on selected Sundays throughout the year. Volunteers work 3-4 hours shifts. It is on the job training and new volunteers are paired up with those with more experience.
Refugee Backpack Program
Contact: Ellen Frerich 612-730-2768
Email: Ellen.Seagren@gmail.com
St. Luke’s works with Lutheran Social Services to provide backpacks and school supplies to Newly arrive refugees and immigrants every summer. The project always needs one person to promote and organize, and another to deliver the filled backpacks. This project requires 4 weeks of attention once a year during the summer. Anyone interested in helping with this ministry can shadow the experienced leadership.
Food Box
Contact: Barb Buehl 952-944-5446 Home 952-826-9965 Cell
Email: barbarabuehl@yahoo.com
St. Lukes has a food box on 46th Street and maintains a supply of shelf stable food products for anyone in need. St. Lukans sign up to be responsible for bringing groceries to church and filling up the box on a weekly or monthly basis. The cost commitment is approximately $20 for a week or $80 for a month. Sign up as you are able on the lobby bulletin board.
Haiti Efforts
Contact: Barb Buehl 952-944-5446 Home 952-826-9965 Cell
Email: barbarabuehl@yahoo.com
St. Luke’s has had a long commitment to the people of Haiti, primarily supporting school lunches. Recently, St.Luke’s decided to take a different approach and is educating the parish about partnering with Plant With Purpose, an international nonprofit, headquartered in San Diego. Their program has successfully broken the cycle of poverty in many rural communities. Plant With Purpose has worked in Haiti since 1997 and has a good track record. This ministry meets quarterly to educate ourselves about Haiti and to plan fundraising efforts.
Care for Creation/Environment
Contact: Barb Buehl 952-944-5446 Home 952-826-9965 Cell
Email: barbarabuehl@yahoo.com
The National Church, ECUSA, is encouraging parishes to renew the environment. St. Luke’s has a committee looking into revamping our environmental stewardship. This is a new ministry and in the planning stages. The group meets monthly to explore what this might look like for St. Luke’s.
TRUST South Minneapolis Coalition
Contact: Barb Buehl 952-944-5446 Home 952-826-9965 Cell
Email: barbarabuehl@yahoo.com
Trust is a coalition of faith organizations in the South Metro area that provide services to seniors and others in need such as Chore programs, Meals on Wheels, Estates Sales, grocery delivery, plumbing, heating, cooking help, and grief support with volunteer help, grants, and donations. Persons wishing to volunteer their time and talent in service to our neighbors through TRUST programs works directly with TRUST as their schedule allows. St. Luke’s is a coalition member. Barb Buehl currently serves on the Board of Directors which meets monthly.
Faith in Action Planning and Vision
Contact: Barb Buehl 952-944-5446 Home 952-826-9965 Cell
Email: barbarabuehl@yahoo.com
Faith in Action Committee members meet quarterly to consider activities and envision future efforts. Those interested in considering how St. Luke’s can put faith in action are invited attend our next meeting, which usually lasts about one hour.
Education
Bible Study
Contact: Interim Priest 612-824-2697
Email: office@st-lukes.net
From the wonders of creation to the mysteries of the resurrection, we find ourselves on a spiritual journey of discovery and Christian formation, that can be exciting and to some a daunting task. In Christian formation, Bible study is the study of the Bible by ordinary people as a personal religious or spiritual practice. Some denominations may call this devotion or devotional acts; however in other denominations devotion has other meanings. Bible study in this sense is distinct from biblical studies, which is a formal academic discipline. At St. Luke's, Bible study is an interactive faith journey that all are invited to come with an inquiring mind and heart. It is held most Wednesday evenings in the Memorial Room from 6-6:45pm.
Education for Ministry (EFM)
Contact: Michele Krakowski 651-210-1778
Email: michelekrakowskisd@gmail.com
EfM is a program of small-group learning sponsored by University of the South’s School of Theology at Sewanee. The core curriculum includes Hebrew and Christian scriptures, church history and contemporary Christian thought. The seminar group is the basis for in depth discussions in which we listen deeply to one another and explore how God is calling us to be witnesses to what we believe. You are invited to consider being a learner or to be trained as a mentor. Interested persons are encouraged to talk with Michele Krakowski or Danielle McCoy. EfM is a weekly commitment to 2 hours of reading plus weekly meetings from September to June.
Topical Study
Contact: Larry Bussey 612-309-8896
Email: larry5234@yahoo.com
From time to time, St. Luke’s sponsors a study group that meets for a number of weeks to discuss a topic. The group decides on the topic which usually relates to the faith journey. The facilitator considers questions to stimulation conversation. Sometimes the author of the book offers questions to stimulate discussion. Interested persons are encouraged to talk with Education vestry representative Larry Bussey.
Education/Faith Formation Plan and Vision Contact: Larry Bussey 612-309-8896
Email: larry5234@yahoo.com
Education/Faith Formation Planning group meets quarterly to explore and consider our faith formation and education efforts at St. Luke’s Currently, a group meets every few weeks after Sunday worship to consider enhancements to our current adult education model. This group is open to all interested St. Lukans.
Contact: Interim Priest 612-824-2697
Email: office@st-lukes.net
From the wonders of creation to the mysteries of the resurrection, we find ourselves on a spiritual journey of discovery and Christian formation, that can be exciting and to some a daunting task. In Christian formation, Bible study is the study of the Bible by ordinary people as a personal religious or spiritual practice. Some denominations may call this devotion or devotional acts; however in other denominations devotion has other meanings. Bible study in this sense is distinct from biblical studies, which is a formal academic discipline. At St. Luke's, Bible study is an interactive faith journey that all are invited to come with an inquiring mind and heart. It is held most Wednesday evenings in the Memorial Room from 6-6:45pm.
Education for Ministry (EFM)
Contact: Michele Krakowski 651-210-1778
Email: michelekrakowskisd@gmail.com
EfM is a program of small-group learning sponsored by University of the South’s School of Theology at Sewanee. The core curriculum includes Hebrew and Christian scriptures, church history and contemporary Christian thought. The seminar group is the basis for in depth discussions in which we listen deeply to one another and explore how God is calling us to be witnesses to what we believe. You are invited to consider being a learner or to be trained as a mentor. Interested persons are encouraged to talk with Michele Krakowski or Danielle McCoy. EfM is a weekly commitment to 2 hours of reading plus weekly meetings from September to June.
Topical Study
Contact: Larry Bussey 612-309-8896
Email: larry5234@yahoo.com
From time to time, St. Luke’s sponsors a study group that meets for a number of weeks to discuss a topic. The group decides on the topic which usually relates to the faith journey. The facilitator considers questions to stimulation conversation. Sometimes the author of the book offers questions to stimulate discussion. Interested persons are encouraged to talk with Education vestry representative Larry Bussey.
Education/Faith Formation Plan and Vision Contact: Larry Bussey 612-309-8896
Email: larry5234@yahoo.com
Education/Faith Formation Planning group meets quarterly to explore and consider our faith formation and education efforts at St. Luke’s Currently, a group meets every few weeks after Sunday worship to consider enhancements to our current adult education model. This group is open to all interested St. Lukans.
Youth Events / Education
Please note: All volunteer ministry opportunities with children & youth require Safe Church for all God’s Children training certification along with a background check. Safe Church training recertification is required every 3 years.
Pray Ground Helper
Contact: Sheila Foster 612-272-6952
Email: stlukesformation@gmail.com
The Pray Ground in the worship space continues to be an engaging space for our children and youth. Parents and family members are welcome to utilize the space.
However, sometimes parents/caregivers would prefer to sit elsewhere during worship. Our Pray Ground Helpers are vital in moments when our younger children need assistance and to help direct them to worship response materials. Helpers can be part of the helping team on a regular scheduled basis or as needed. Pray Ground Helpers need to have documentation of training in Safe Church for All God’s Children training and re-certify every 3 years. Pray Ground Helper training is also required.
Pray Ground Resource Coordinator / Team Contact: Sheila Foster
Email: stlukesformation@gmail.com
The Pray Ground is designed to be always changing. With each church season the response materials and space colors also change. In order to keep the space relevant and connected to the worship experience, effort is given to reflecting on the lectionary/assigned scripture readings for each Sunday in order to develop response materials that correlate with the lectionary and the Church season. We are looking for an individual who has biblical knowledge, understanding of the flow of liturgy, and a background in child development. It is our hope to create a team of interested persons willing to engage in an ongoing development process. This ministry has a seasonal commitment with a minimum of a month of planning prior to the changing of a church season: Advent, Epiphany, Lent, Easter, Pentecost, Sunday’s following Pentecost (Ordinary Time). Training is on a case by case basis and dependent on individual’s background and skills.
Child Care Room Helper
Contact: Danielle McCoy 507-479-0543
Email: danil524@msn.com
The Child Care Room option is available upon request for children from birth to age 5. Many of our families choose to have their young children participate in worship. However, there are occasions when the child care room is a better fit. Currently, our Child Care Room caregivers begin in the Pray Ground and if a need for the child care room option is wanted, our caregivers take the children requested up to the child care room. It is required to have two trained adults present in the child care room at all times, even if there is only one child. Helpers can sign up for designated Sundays or be on an on-call basis. We also have the Child Care Room available during some early evening worship services and special events. Along with the Safe Church training certification helpers are also required to be at least 16 year old. Junior Helpers need to be at least 12 year old and to have completed a Child Care Room training session.
Godly Play Storyteller (Door Person) Helper
Contact: Danielle McCoy 507-479-0543
Email: danil524@msn.com
Godly Play is a Sunday morning faith formation opportunity for children age 3 through 10 years of age. Children gather in the Godly Play atrium located on the second floor at 9:45 a.m. Through the telling of Bible stories, the children are invited to wonder with open-ended questions. The storyteller is responsible for preparing the story prior to Sunday morning. Because the role requires the storyteller to build a relationship with the children, it is our hope that a storyteller commits to a minimum of once a month schedule. Storytellers and helpers also need to complete a Godly Play training session.
TEC Adult Leaders and Youth Leaders
Contact: Sheila Foster 612-272-6952
Email: stlukesformation@gmail.com
Episcopal MN TEC (Teens Encounter Christ) is a weekend, overnight youth retreat for high school youth, (9th-12th grade) and is typically held twice a year, the third weekend (Thurs-Sun) in October and April. Youth attend their first TEC as a participant and commit to being present at the retreat from Friday to Sunday. Adults and youth who have attended once as a candidate are then eligible to be on team. Adult leaders are assigned to participate with another adult on a team that best fits their gifts and the needs of the participants. Youth leaders and team members are also assigned to teams. TEC weekends rely on adults who have the ability to lead by walking alongside our youth leaders. The TEC weekend moves around to churches all over Minnesota. You can choose to only help on one TEC retreat weekend or all. TEC weekends are wonderful opportunities to connect with our youth and other adults who work with youth. Youth and adult team members commit to being present for the entire weekend. The weekend combines, worship, storytelling, and music and follows the liturgies from Maundy Thursday through Pentecost. Being present to the entire weekend is vital to being part of the entire story of God’s unconditional love, AGAPE.
Youth Peer Minister
Contact: Sheila Foster 612-272-6952
Email: stlukesformation@gmail.com
Once a year in January 10-12th grade high school youth have the opportunity to attend a weekend overnight retreat that offers special peer ministry training sessions. Once a youth has completed the weekend, they participate in a commissioning of their role as a Peer Minister. They also have the opportunity to attend future Peer Ministry trainings as a leader. Full attendance in the Friday to Sunday Peer Ministry Retreat is required. There is also the commitment that our Peer ministers will participate fully in our faith community as a person who other youth can feel like they have someone to talk to and someone who will get an adult involved if necessary.
Youth Overnight Chaperone
Contact: Sheila Foster 612-272-6952
Email: stlukesformation@gmail.com
The youth plan approximately one overnight per month during the school year for youth (grades 6-12). Safe Church requires one adult per 10 youth with a minimum of 2 adults being present. Chaperones are needed to walk alongside the youth as they lead the event. However, St. Luke’s requires a minimum of 3 adults present for the entirety of the event. This can be a one time commitment or several throughout the school year.
Mission Trip Chaperone
Contact: Sheila Foster 612-272-6952
Email: stlukesformation@gmail.com
In mid June, youth and adult chaperones from St. Luke’s along with other MN Episcopal faith communities embark on a journey to the Rosebud Indian Reservation at Mission South Dakota. Chaperones help to drive and participate in the process of building relationships with our friends in Mission. The opportunities include cultural experiences, cutting firewood, possibly cooking community meals, and work with Habitat for Humanity. The mission trip is a week long experience, and chaperones are expected to participate from the beginning to the end. Chaperones may be asked to attend at least one adult gathering prior to the travel.
Riverside Innovation Hub Involvement
Contact: Sheila Foster 612-272-6952
Email: stlukesformation@gmail.com
The Riverside Innovation Hub was an initiative spearheaded by our St. Luke’s young adults (21-31 years of age). The initial purpose was to create a path for St. Luke’s to reach out to the neighborhood by using our 5 marks of mission put forth by the Episcopal Church and to live out our Baptismal Covenant. We are now in the implementation phase of the project for which we have received a 2 year grant. This phase includes offerings of hospitality and opportunity to get to know our neighbors on the front lawn in the space named The Front Porch for Ice Cream Sundays during the months of June, July, and August. During the school year, there will be a number of community gatherings around spiritual wellness, vocation, environmental stewardship, and nonviolent conflict resolution. We will also be putting together teams to continue the work of accompaniment which is attending community gatherings in the neighborhoods to hear where God is present. There will be a training for those wanting to participate on the accompaniment teams. The bigger events will require many gifts, and your gifts can be used at just one event or at many.
Youth Faith Formation
Contact: Sheila Foster 612-272-6952
Email: stlukesformation@gmail.com
Currently the St. Luke’s youth have been gathering for Bible Study about twice a month. The hope is to build on that opportunity. The youth also gather following worship in the upstairs Youth Room where they check in and prepare for future events. They would like to formalize more opportunities on Sunday mornings as our youth presence continues to grow. More opportunities are possible for involvement as adult volunteers make their gifts known. We would like to create a team of 3 to 4 adults who would be available following worship each Sunday to meet with the youth. It is possible that this could become an evening event. This can happen as we build a consistent team willing to meet and build relationships on a regular schedule of meetings. This would be an ongoing commitment.
Faith Formation Resource Room
Contact: Sheila Foster 612-272-6952
Email: stlukesformation@gmail.com
In order to provide faith formation opportunities for children and youth physical resources are essential tools to the process. This includes resources for Godly Play, Pray Ground, Youth Overnights, dramas, special events for children, youth, and families. We are in need of a team of volunteers that would be willing to organize these resources throughout the year. This is an opportunity for individuals, teams, or even families to be involved. The process of organizing the resources can happen at whatever time is convenient except when community groups are meeting on the second floor. The resource room is joined with another room that is used during the week by community groups, but there are many time frames for this work to happen in the late afternoons and weekends.
Pray Ground Helper
Contact: Sheila Foster 612-272-6952
Email: stlukesformation@gmail.com
The Pray Ground in the worship space continues to be an engaging space for our children and youth. Parents and family members are welcome to utilize the space.
However, sometimes parents/caregivers would prefer to sit elsewhere during worship. Our Pray Ground Helpers are vital in moments when our younger children need assistance and to help direct them to worship response materials. Helpers can be part of the helping team on a regular scheduled basis or as needed. Pray Ground Helpers need to have documentation of training in Safe Church for All God’s Children training and re-certify every 3 years. Pray Ground Helper training is also required.
Pray Ground Resource Coordinator / Team Contact: Sheila Foster
Email: stlukesformation@gmail.com
The Pray Ground is designed to be always changing. With each church season the response materials and space colors also change. In order to keep the space relevant and connected to the worship experience, effort is given to reflecting on the lectionary/assigned scripture readings for each Sunday in order to develop response materials that correlate with the lectionary and the Church season. We are looking for an individual who has biblical knowledge, understanding of the flow of liturgy, and a background in child development. It is our hope to create a team of interested persons willing to engage in an ongoing development process. This ministry has a seasonal commitment with a minimum of a month of planning prior to the changing of a church season: Advent, Epiphany, Lent, Easter, Pentecost, Sunday’s following Pentecost (Ordinary Time). Training is on a case by case basis and dependent on individual’s background and skills.
Child Care Room Helper
Contact: Danielle McCoy 507-479-0543
Email: danil524@msn.com
The Child Care Room option is available upon request for children from birth to age 5. Many of our families choose to have their young children participate in worship. However, there are occasions when the child care room is a better fit. Currently, our Child Care Room caregivers begin in the Pray Ground and if a need for the child care room option is wanted, our caregivers take the children requested up to the child care room. It is required to have two trained adults present in the child care room at all times, even if there is only one child. Helpers can sign up for designated Sundays or be on an on-call basis. We also have the Child Care Room available during some early evening worship services and special events. Along with the Safe Church training certification helpers are also required to be at least 16 year old. Junior Helpers need to be at least 12 year old and to have completed a Child Care Room training session.
Godly Play Storyteller (Door Person) Helper
Contact: Danielle McCoy 507-479-0543
Email: danil524@msn.com
Godly Play is a Sunday morning faith formation opportunity for children age 3 through 10 years of age. Children gather in the Godly Play atrium located on the second floor at 9:45 a.m. Through the telling of Bible stories, the children are invited to wonder with open-ended questions. The storyteller is responsible for preparing the story prior to Sunday morning. Because the role requires the storyteller to build a relationship with the children, it is our hope that a storyteller commits to a minimum of once a month schedule. Storytellers and helpers also need to complete a Godly Play training session.
TEC Adult Leaders and Youth Leaders
Contact: Sheila Foster 612-272-6952
Email: stlukesformation@gmail.com
Episcopal MN TEC (Teens Encounter Christ) is a weekend, overnight youth retreat for high school youth, (9th-12th grade) and is typically held twice a year, the third weekend (Thurs-Sun) in October and April. Youth attend their first TEC as a participant and commit to being present at the retreat from Friday to Sunday. Adults and youth who have attended once as a candidate are then eligible to be on team. Adult leaders are assigned to participate with another adult on a team that best fits their gifts and the needs of the participants. Youth leaders and team members are also assigned to teams. TEC weekends rely on adults who have the ability to lead by walking alongside our youth leaders. The TEC weekend moves around to churches all over Minnesota. You can choose to only help on one TEC retreat weekend or all. TEC weekends are wonderful opportunities to connect with our youth and other adults who work with youth. Youth and adult team members commit to being present for the entire weekend. The weekend combines, worship, storytelling, and music and follows the liturgies from Maundy Thursday through Pentecost. Being present to the entire weekend is vital to being part of the entire story of God’s unconditional love, AGAPE.
Youth Peer Minister
Contact: Sheila Foster 612-272-6952
Email: stlukesformation@gmail.com
Once a year in January 10-12th grade high school youth have the opportunity to attend a weekend overnight retreat that offers special peer ministry training sessions. Once a youth has completed the weekend, they participate in a commissioning of their role as a Peer Minister. They also have the opportunity to attend future Peer Ministry trainings as a leader. Full attendance in the Friday to Sunday Peer Ministry Retreat is required. There is also the commitment that our Peer ministers will participate fully in our faith community as a person who other youth can feel like they have someone to talk to and someone who will get an adult involved if necessary.
Youth Overnight Chaperone
Contact: Sheila Foster 612-272-6952
Email: stlukesformation@gmail.com
The youth plan approximately one overnight per month during the school year for youth (grades 6-12). Safe Church requires one adult per 10 youth with a minimum of 2 adults being present. Chaperones are needed to walk alongside the youth as they lead the event. However, St. Luke’s requires a minimum of 3 adults present for the entirety of the event. This can be a one time commitment or several throughout the school year.
Mission Trip Chaperone
Contact: Sheila Foster 612-272-6952
Email: stlukesformation@gmail.com
In mid June, youth and adult chaperones from St. Luke’s along with other MN Episcopal faith communities embark on a journey to the Rosebud Indian Reservation at Mission South Dakota. Chaperones help to drive and participate in the process of building relationships with our friends in Mission. The opportunities include cultural experiences, cutting firewood, possibly cooking community meals, and work with Habitat for Humanity. The mission trip is a week long experience, and chaperones are expected to participate from the beginning to the end. Chaperones may be asked to attend at least one adult gathering prior to the travel.
Riverside Innovation Hub Involvement
Contact: Sheila Foster 612-272-6952
Email: stlukesformation@gmail.com
The Riverside Innovation Hub was an initiative spearheaded by our St. Luke’s young adults (21-31 years of age). The initial purpose was to create a path for St. Luke’s to reach out to the neighborhood by using our 5 marks of mission put forth by the Episcopal Church and to live out our Baptismal Covenant. We are now in the implementation phase of the project for which we have received a 2 year grant. This phase includes offerings of hospitality and opportunity to get to know our neighbors on the front lawn in the space named The Front Porch for Ice Cream Sundays during the months of June, July, and August. During the school year, there will be a number of community gatherings around spiritual wellness, vocation, environmental stewardship, and nonviolent conflict resolution. We will also be putting together teams to continue the work of accompaniment which is attending community gatherings in the neighborhoods to hear where God is present. There will be a training for those wanting to participate on the accompaniment teams. The bigger events will require many gifts, and your gifts can be used at just one event or at many.
Youth Faith Formation
Contact: Sheila Foster 612-272-6952
Email: stlukesformation@gmail.com
Currently the St. Luke’s youth have been gathering for Bible Study about twice a month. The hope is to build on that opportunity. The youth also gather following worship in the upstairs Youth Room where they check in and prepare for future events. They would like to formalize more opportunities on Sunday mornings as our youth presence continues to grow. More opportunities are possible for involvement as adult volunteers make their gifts known. We would like to create a team of 3 to 4 adults who would be available following worship each Sunday to meet with the youth. It is possible that this could become an evening event. This can happen as we build a consistent team willing to meet and build relationships on a regular schedule of meetings. This would be an ongoing commitment.
Faith Formation Resource Room
Contact: Sheila Foster 612-272-6952
Email: stlukesformation@gmail.com
In order to provide faith formation opportunities for children and youth physical resources are essential tools to the process. This includes resources for Godly Play, Pray Ground, Youth Overnights, dramas, special events for children, youth, and families. We are in need of a team of volunteers that would be willing to organize these resources throughout the year. This is an opportunity for individuals, teams, or even families to be involved. The process of organizing the resources can happen at whatever time is convenient except when community groups are meeting on the second floor. The resource room is joined with another room that is used during the week by community groups, but there are many time frames for this work to happen in the late afternoons and weekends.
Communications
Church Website Design/Maintenance
Contact: Sky Woodhull 612-360-0168
Email: woodycubed@yahoo.com
St. Luke’s website is a vital source for persons wondering about new churches and is an important link for our parishioners. The website is designed and maintained in collaboration with our church office staff and rector. Persons interested in considering this ministry are encouraged to share their ideas with Sky Woodhull.
Bulletin Boards
Contact: Sky Woodhull 612-360-0168
Email: woodycubed@yahoo.com
The church office generally maintains the bulletin boards in the lobby. However, it could be a volunteer ministry for someone who is visually creative and enjoys putting together informational displays. This ministry has a lot of flexibility with time. Training and guidance are provided. Persons interested in considering this ministry are encouraged to share their ideas with Sky Woodhull.
Computer Expertise
Contact: Sky Woodhull 612-360-0168
Email: woodycubed@yahoo.com
Persons with computer expertise are invaluable when the parish is considering new and improved methods of communication. Persons with this kind of knowledge or expertise are encouraged to share their ideas with Sky Woodhull.
Communications Planning and Vision
Contact: Sky Woodhull 612-360-0168
Email: woodycubed@yahoo.com
Communications at St. Luke’s is managed by staff and volunteers and includes a combination of our website, Facebook (social media), print, lobby bulletin boards, verbal, and outside signage. The Communications Vestry liaison would like to meet periodically with several persons who are interested in this area and invites anyone interested in a creative conversation to discuss about how best to promote St. Luke’s mission and events both within our community and to our neighbors to contact him.
Contact: Sky Woodhull 612-360-0168
Email: woodycubed@yahoo.com
St. Luke’s website is a vital source for persons wondering about new churches and is an important link for our parishioners. The website is designed and maintained in collaboration with our church office staff and rector. Persons interested in considering this ministry are encouraged to share their ideas with Sky Woodhull.
Bulletin Boards
Contact: Sky Woodhull 612-360-0168
Email: woodycubed@yahoo.com
The church office generally maintains the bulletin boards in the lobby. However, it could be a volunteer ministry for someone who is visually creative and enjoys putting together informational displays. This ministry has a lot of flexibility with time. Training and guidance are provided. Persons interested in considering this ministry are encouraged to share their ideas with Sky Woodhull.
Computer Expertise
Contact: Sky Woodhull 612-360-0168
Email: woodycubed@yahoo.com
Persons with computer expertise are invaluable when the parish is considering new and improved methods of communication. Persons with this kind of knowledge or expertise are encouraged to share their ideas with Sky Woodhull.
Communications Planning and Vision
Contact: Sky Woodhull 612-360-0168
Email: woodycubed@yahoo.com
Communications at St. Luke’s is managed by staff and volunteers and includes a combination of our website, Facebook (social media), print, lobby bulletin boards, verbal, and outside signage. The Communications Vestry liaison would like to meet periodically with several persons who are interested in this area and invites anyone interested in a creative conversation to discuss about how best to promote St. Luke’s mission and events both within our community and to our neighbors to contact him.
Fundraising
Annual Fall Gala
Contact: Sue Harden 612-247-7901
Email: saharden@comcast.net
What does this look like? Once a year on the first Saturday in November, St. Luke’s holds its annual fundraiser – the Fall Gala. Planning begins in August. Tickets go on sale in September. There are many ministry opportunities with both larger and smaller times commitments. For example, exploring the them, overseeing the Silent and Live Auction requires more time. Decorating tables, preparing appetizers and desserts requires less time. The main meal is catered. If you think you might be interested in being a part of this ministry, contact Sue Harden.
Contact: Sue Harden 612-247-7901
Email: saharden@comcast.net
What does this look like? Once a year on the first Saturday in November, St. Luke’s holds its annual fundraiser – the Fall Gala. Planning begins in August. Tickets go on sale in September. There are many ministry opportunities with both larger and smaller times commitments. For example, exploring the them, overseeing the Silent and Live Auction requires more time. Decorating tables, preparing appetizers and desserts requires less time. The main meal is catered. If you think you might be interested in being a part of this ministry, contact Sue Harden.
Office Admin / Support
Office Filing
Contact: Sarah Heeren 612-824-2697
Email: office@st-lukes.net
Every office has ongoing filing needs. This ministry can be two to four hours every few weeks, working any Monday to Thursday morning when our Office Administrator is available to provide guidance and training. If you think this might be something you would like to do, please contact Sarah for more information.
New Directory Coordinator
Contact: Sarah Heeren 612-824-2697
Email: office@st-lukes.net
The Church Directory, which is available to St. Lukans as a link in the Thursday ENews, is updated as the office receives updated information. At least once a year, the directory needs to be reviewed for a major update. This once a year ministry works in collaboration with the Rector and the Office Administrator and would take several weeks to complete. The coordinator would contact parishioners listed to confirm their contact information and connection to St. Lukes. Training is provided. Interested persons are encouraged to call the church office.
Archived Files Maintenance
Contact: Sarah Heeren 612-824-2697
Email: office@st-lukes.net
St. Luke’s maintains archived files that periodically need to be reviewed and culled. Volunteers can schedule their time according to their availability. This ministry can be a three or four hour commitment over a period of time, depending on one’s availability. Training and guidance is provided by our Office Administrator. If you think this might be something you would like to do, please contact Sarah for more information.
Database Update Review
Contact: Sarah Heeren 612-824-2697
Email: office@st-lukes.net
St. Luke’s has recently changed database software, and the Church Office would like some help reviewing the data which still lists members who are deceased, for instance. This one-time ministry will work in collaboration with the Rector and the Office Administrator and take several weeks to complete depending on one’s availability. Training is provided. If you think this might be something you would like to do, please contact Sarah for more information.
Contact: Sarah Heeren 612-824-2697
Email: office@st-lukes.net
Every office has ongoing filing needs. This ministry can be two to four hours every few weeks, working any Monday to Thursday morning when our Office Administrator is available to provide guidance and training. If you think this might be something you would like to do, please contact Sarah for more information.
New Directory Coordinator
Contact: Sarah Heeren 612-824-2697
Email: office@st-lukes.net
The Church Directory, which is available to St. Lukans as a link in the Thursday ENews, is updated as the office receives updated information. At least once a year, the directory needs to be reviewed for a major update. This once a year ministry works in collaboration with the Rector and the Office Administrator and would take several weeks to complete. The coordinator would contact parishioners listed to confirm their contact information and connection to St. Lukes. Training is provided. Interested persons are encouraged to call the church office.
Archived Files Maintenance
Contact: Sarah Heeren 612-824-2697
Email: office@st-lukes.net
St. Luke’s maintains archived files that periodically need to be reviewed and culled. Volunteers can schedule their time according to their availability. This ministry can be a three or four hour commitment over a period of time, depending on one’s availability. Training and guidance is provided by our Office Administrator. If you think this might be something you would like to do, please contact Sarah for more information.
Database Update Review
Contact: Sarah Heeren 612-824-2697
Email: office@st-lukes.net
St. Luke’s has recently changed database software, and the Church Office would like some help reviewing the data which still lists members who are deceased, for instance. This one-time ministry will work in collaboration with the Rector and the Office Administrator and take several weeks to complete depending on one’s availability. Training is provided. If you think this might be something you would like to do, please contact Sarah for more information.
Property
Building Maintenance Projects
Contact: Rich Oswald
Email: mnkickball17@gmail.com
There are always items needing attention or repair around an old building like St. Luke’s. There are frequently projects of short duration that can be handled as one’s schedule allows. When it is time sensitive, Rich likes to have a few people he can call upon to see if they are available to help. This group is made up of St. Lukans who have an interest and understanding of one or more of the following: heating and air conditioning, plumbing, electrical, painting, and general household repairs and maintenance. Interested persons are encouraged to contact Rich Oswald.
Church Clean Up Days
Contact: Rich Oswald
Email: mnkickball17@gmail.com
The vestry Property liaison designates a day in the spring and fall to do a general clean-up of the church building for the next season. The activity usually takes four hours on a given Saturday and is a fun opportunity to work alongside other St. Lukans. Watch the ENews and the Sunday Bulletin for designated dates.
Spring and Fall Yard Clean-up
Contact: Rich Oswald
Email: mnkickball17@gmail.com
The vestry Property liaison designates a day in the spring and fall to prepare the outside of the church for the next season. The activity usually takes four hours on a given Saturday and is a fun opportunity to work alongside other St. Lukans. Watch the ENews and the Sunday Bulletin for designated dates.
Garden Maintenance
Contact: Julie Scherber
Email: jscherber@yahoo.com
St. Luke’s has a lawn service to maintain the lawns around the church. However, the garden area next to the church building are cared for by a master gardener who is also a member of St. Luke’s. During the growing season, this ministry requires a few hours of attention every couple of weeks. Currently, Julie is also planting some new shrubs at the front of the church. Interested gardeners are encouraged to contact Julie Scherber.
Property Maintenance Planning and Vision Contact: Rich Oswald
Email: mnkickball17@gmail.com
The Property Planning group makes recommendations to the vestry for short and long term maintenance and repairs. When it is time sensitive, Rich likes to have a few people he can call upon to see if they are available to help. This group is made up of St. Lukans who have an interest and understanding of one or more of the following: heating and air conditioning, plumbing, electrical, painting, and general household repairs and maintenance. This group meets per Rich’s request. Interested persons are encouraged to contact Rich Oswald.
Librarian Ministry
Contact: Deacon Morris Goodwin Jr. 612-991-7673
Email: deaconmorrisg@st-lukes.net
St. Luke’s has not had a librarian for several years. Periodically a person or group of persons has taken on a review of our inventory and process for borrowing books. The Library is in need of care again. If you think you would like to be a part of organizing and improving our current library, please talk with our senior warden for more information.
Contact: Rich Oswald
Email: mnkickball17@gmail.com
There are always items needing attention or repair around an old building like St. Luke’s. There are frequently projects of short duration that can be handled as one’s schedule allows. When it is time sensitive, Rich likes to have a few people he can call upon to see if they are available to help. This group is made up of St. Lukans who have an interest and understanding of one or more of the following: heating and air conditioning, plumbing, electrical, painting, and general household repairs and maintenance. Interested persons are encouraged to contact Rich Oswald.
Church Clean Up Days
Contact: Rich Oswald
Email: mnkickball17@gmail.com
The vestry Property liaison designates a day in the spring and fall to do a general clean-up of the church building for the next season. The activity usually takes four hours on a given Saturday and is a fun opportunity to work alongside other St. Lukans. Watch the ENews and the Sunday Bulletin for designated dates.
Spring and Fall Yard Clean-up
Contact: Rich Oswald
Email: mnkickball17@gmail.com
The vestry Property liaison designates a day in the spring and fall to prepare the outside of the church for the next season. The activity usually takes four hours on a given Saturday and is a fun opportunity to work alongside other St. Lukans. Watch the ENews and the Sunday Bulletin for designated dates.
Garden Maintenance
Contact: Julie Scherber
Email: jscherber@yahoo.com
St. Luke’s has a lawn service to maintain the lawns around the church. However, the garden area next to the church building are cared for by a master gardener who is also a member of St. Luke’s. During the growing season, this ministry requires a few hours of attention every couple of weeks. Currently, Julie is also planting some new shrubs at the front of the church. Interested gardeners are encouraged to contact Julie Scherber.
Property Maintenance Planning and Vision Contact: Rich Oswald
Email: mnkickball17@gmail.com
The Property Planning group makes recommendations to the vestry for short and long term maintenance and repairs. When it is time sensitive, Rich likes to have a few people he can call upon to see if they are available to help. This group is made up of St. Lukans who have an interest and understanding of one or more of the following: heating and air conditioning, plumbing, electrical, painting, and general household repairs and maintenance. This group meets per Rich’s request. Interested persons are encouraged to contact Rich Oswald.
Librarian Ministry
Contact: Deacon Morris Goodwin Jr. 612-991-7673
Email: deaconmorrisg@st-lukes.net
St. Luke’s has not had a librarian for several years. Periodically a person or group of persons has taken on a review of our inventory and process for borrowing books. The Library is in need of care again. If you think you would like to be a part of organizing and improving our current library, please talk with our senior warden for more information.
Memorial Garden
Spring Clean Up and Fall Close Down Contact: Larry Krakowski 651-210-0577
Email: lmkrakowski@gmail.com
On a designated day when the snow is gone and the ground has warmed, two or three persons prepare the garden for the growing season and set up the automatic sprinkler system and solar powered lights. Wood chips are often put down at this time. Likewise in the fall, two or three persons prepare the garden for winter by closing down the sprinkler system, putting away the solar lights, and removing fall leaves. The time commitment is less than a day. Contact Larry Krakowski if you would like to help with this ministry. Training and guidance are provided.
Prepare Ground for Burial of Ashes
Contact: Larry Krakowski 651-210-0577
Email: lmkrakowski@gmail.com
Working with the Rector, the Memorial Garden prepares the designated plot to receive the ashes. Burial spots follow a grid system with ashes assigned to specific areas. Following the interment of the ashes, the attendant refills the hole. The attendant also installs the brass name plaque on the commemorative wall in the garden. (The plaques are ordered by the church office.) The person who prepares the plot can receive $50 stipend for each interment. Contact Larry Krakowski if you would like to help with this ministry. Training and guidance are provided.
Refurbish Benches Annually
Contact: Larry Krakowski 651-210-0577
Email: lmkrakowski@gmail.com
The Memorial Garden benches are made of teak and need to be sanded and refinished every spring. This is a flexible ministry that can be done according to one’s schedule. Expenses will be reimbursed. Contact Larry Krakowski if you would like to help with this ministry. Training and guidance are provided.
Biweekly Weeding in Growing Season
Contact: Larry Krakowski 651-210-0577
Email: lmkrakowski@gmail.com
During the growing season, weeds can be managed by spending 30 minutes every two to three weeks as one is available to keep the garden looking presentable. Contact Larry Krakowski if this is something you might like to consider doing on a one-time or more frequent basis. Training and guidance are provided.
Memorial Garden Planning and Vision
Contact: Larry Krakowski 651-210-0577
Email: lmkrakowski@gmail.com
Since 1991 St. Luke’s has provided a burial setting adjacent to the church building for those who choose to have their ashes buried on the church grounds. There are currently 338 family burial sites with each able to hold the ashes of up to four persons. All maintenance, records and policy decisions are handled by the Memorial Garden Committee. St. Luke’s would like to consider continuing to beautify the garden using perennial native plants, simplify the record keeping, and produce a new brochure. Contact Larry Krakowski if you would like to be a part of this committee.
Email: lmkrakowski@gmail.com
On a designated day when the snow is gone and the ground has warmed, two or three persons prepare the garden for the growing season and set up the automatic sprinkler system and solar powered lights. Wood chips are often put down at this time. Likewise in the fall, two or three persons prepare the garden for winter by closing down the sprinkler system, putting away the solar lights, and removing fall leaves. The time commitment is less than a day. Contact Larry Krakowski if you would like to help with this ministry. Training and guidance are provided.
Prepare Ground for Burial of Ashes
Contact: Larry Krakowski 651-210-0577
Email: lmkrakowski@gmail.com
Working with the Rector, the Memorial Garden prepares the designated plot to receive the ashes. Burial spots follow a grid system with ashes assigned to specific areas. Following the interment of the ashes, the attendant refills the hole. The attendant also installs the brass name plaque on the commemorative wall in the garden. (The plaques are ordered by the church office.) The person who prepares the plot can receive $50 stipend for each interment. Contact Larry Krakowski if you would like to help with this ministry. Training and guidance are provided.
Refurbish Benches Annually
Contact: Larry Krakowski 651-210-0577
Email: lmkrakowski@gmail.com
The Memorial Garden benches are made of teak and need to be sanded and refinished every spring. This is a flexible ministry that can be done according to one’s schedule. Expenses will be reimbursed. Contact Larry Krakowski if you would like to help with this ministry. Training and guidance are provided.
Biweekly Weeding in Growing Season
Contact: Larry Krakowski 651-210-0577
Email: lmkrakowski@gmail.com
During the growing season, weeds can be managed by spending 30 minutes every two to three weeks as one is available to keep the garden looking presentable. Contact Larry Krakowski if this is something you might like to consider doing on a one-time or more frequent basis. Training and guidance are provided.
Memorial Garden Planning and Vision
Contact: Larry Krakowski 651-210-0577
Email: lmkrakowski@gmail.com
Since 1991 St. Luke’s has provided a burial setting adjacent to the church building for those who choose to have their ashes buried on the church grounds. There are currently 338 family burial sites with each able to hold the ashes of up to four persons. All maintenance, records and policy decisions are handled by the Memorial Garden Committee. St. Luke’s would like to consider continuing to beautify the garden using perennial native plants, simplify the record keeping, and produce a new brochure. Contact Larry Krakowski if you would like to be a part of this committee.
Finances
Treasurer
Contact: Jolene Richards
Email: jmalkojm@gmail.com
The treasurer is appointed by the wardens and serves a two-year term that can be repeated. This position ensures financial operations are in accordance with the Episcopal church’s and ECMN canons, church bylaws and state and federal laws and are in accordance with standard accounting procedures. The treasurer ensures bills are paid in a timely fashion, prepares accounting reports, meets regularly with the vestry to assist with financial planning, including preparation of the annual budget. This ministry requires a weekly and monthly time commitment to oversee the financial activities and works closely with the bookkeeper.
Sunday Offering Counters
Contact: Jolene Richards
Email: jmalkojm@gmail.com
Two members of the congregation tabulate the offering on Sunday morning immediately after Worship following a standard procedure. Training takes 5 minutes and counting takes less than 10 minutes. Counters are scheduled according to their availability.
Finance Committee
Contact: Jolene Richards
Email: jmalkojm@gmail.com
Members of this committee are appointed by the wardens. The group meets monthly to discuss short and long term planning and church financial needs. Those interested in serving in this ministry are encouraged to speak with one of the wardens or treasurer.
Stewardship Ministry Team
Contact: Chris Bercaw 612-824-7703
Email: Bercaw.chris@dorsey.com
The stewardship ministry team is a group of St. Lukans who are interested in learning about growing in spiritual generosity and who discern with clergy, wardens, and vestry how to do that at St. Luke’s. Recently, they developed a yearlong efforts that celebrate how individual St. Lukans share their gifts with our parish and the world around them. The group meets quarterly to educate themselves about stewardship and sharing one’s gifts and talents. In collaboration with clergy, wardens and vestry, this team also develops the outline of the fall stewardship drive that happens in October and culminates in early November with Covenant Sunday. Please contact Chris Bercaw if you would like to explore serving on this ministry team.
Contact: Jolene Richards
Email: jmalkojm@gmail.com
The treasurer is appointed by the wardens and serves a two-year term that can be repeated. This position ensures financial operations are in accordance with the Episcopal church’s and ECMN canons, church bylaws and state and federal laws and are in accordance with standard accounting procedures. The treasurer ensures bills are paid in a timely fashion, prepares accounting reports, meets regularly with the vestry to assist with financial planning, including preparation of the annual budget. This ministry requires a weekly and monthly time commitment to oversee the financial activities and works closely with the bookkeeper.
Sunday Offering Counters
Contact: Jolene Richards
Email: jmalkojm@gmail.com
Two members of the congregation tabulate the offering on Sunday morning immediately after Worship following a standard procedure. Training takes 5 minutes and counting takes less than 10 minutes. Counters are scheduled according to their availability.
Finance Committee
Contact: Jolene Richards
Email: jmalkojm@gmail.com
Members of this committee are appointed by the wardens. The group meets monthly to discuss short and long term planning and church financial needs. Those interested in serving in this ministry are encouraged to speak with one of the wardens or treasurer.
Stewardship Ministry Team
Contact: Chris Bercaw 612-824-7703
Email: Bercaw.chris@dorsey.com
The stewardship ministry team is a group of St. Lukans who are interested in learning about growing in spiritual generosity and who discern with clergy, wardens, and vestry how to do that at St. Luke’s. Recently, they developed a yearlong efforts that celebrate how individual St. Lukans share their gifts with our parish and the world around them. The group meets quarterly to educate themselves about stewardship and sharing one’s gifts and talents. In collaboration with clergy, wardens and vestry, this team also develops the outline of the fall stewardship drive that happens in October and culminates in early November with Covenant Sunday. Please contact Chris Bercaw if you would like to explore serving on this ministry team.
Vestry
Vestry Member
Contact: Sharon Rost 612-532-3413
Email: saarost@gmail.com
Vestry members are elected for 3 year terms at the annual meeting in January. Every vestry member supports the mission of St. Luke’s by word and deed, works collaboratively with the vestry and rector to discern God’s mission and call for our parish as they follow the canons of the Episcopal church and manage the business affairs of St. Luke’s. Each vestry member regularly prepares for, attends, and participates in monthly vestry meetings and annual retreats.
Warden
Contact: Sharon Rost 612-532-3413
Email: saarost@gmail.com
The Wardens, along with the Rector oversee and manage the affairs of St. Luke’s and work collaboratively to discern God’s mission and call of our parish community. Wardens are elected at the annual meeting in January and serve three year terms (Junior Warden 2, Junior Warden 1, Senior Warden). At St. Luke’s, the wardens work closely together as a team. First year has general responsibilities. The second year focuses on property and being an ear to the congregation. In the third year, the Senior Warden acts as an adviser to the Rector while overseeing and managing the affairs of our church. These positions require monthly meetings and weekly calls.
Clerk of the Vestry
Contact: Ryan Vos
Email: vos.ryan@gmail.com
The Clerk records, processes and maintains accurate and timely documentation of vestry Meetings. Our clerk takes the minutes and emails them to the church office the morning after vestry approval. This job requires attendance at monthly vestry meetings which are on the second Monday of the month at 7 pm and last up to 90 minutes. While a new clerk is oriented about what is important to record, the training is mostly on the job with guidance from the wardens.
Contact: Sharon Rost 612-532-3413
Email: saarost@gmail.com
Vestry members are elected for 3 year terms at the annual meeting in January. Every vestry member supports the mission of St. Luke’s by word and deed, works collaboratively with the vestry and rector to discern God’s mission and call for our parish as they follow the canons of the Episcopal church and manage the business affairs of St. Luke’s. Each vestry member regularly prepares for, attends, and participates in monthly vestry meetings and annual retreats.
Warden
Contact: Sharon Rost 612-532-3413
Email: saarost@gmail.com
The Wardens, along with the Rector oversee and manage the affairs of St. Luke’s and work collaboratively to discern God’s mission and call of our parish community. Wardens are elected at the annual meeting in January and serve three year terms (Junior Warden 2, Junior Warden 1, Senior Warden). At St. Luke’s, the wardens work closely together as a team. First year has general responsibilities. The second year focuses on property and being an ear to the congregation. In the third year, the Senior Warden acts as an adviser to the Rector while overseeing and managing the affairs of our church. These positions require monthly meetings and weekly calls.
Clerk of the Vestry
Contact: Ryan Vos
Email: vos.ryan@gmail.com
The Clerk records, processes and maintains accurate and timely documentation of vestry Meetings. Our clerk takes the minutes and emails them to the church office the morning after vestry approval. This job requires attendance at monthly vestry meetings which are on the second Monday of the month at 7 pm and last up to 90 minutes. While a new clerk is oriented about what is important to record, the training is mostly on the job with guidance from the wardens.
ECMN and Bishop's Committees
ECMN and Bishop’s Committees
Contact: Interim Priest 612-824-2697
Email: office@st-lukes.net
Occasionally there are opportunities to participate in offering input and planning for the greater Episcopal Church in Minnesota (ECMN) by serving on various committees and/or initiatives. Information about opportunities is often listed in the weekly ECMN E News. Our Rector is also a good source for information about these endeavors. These opportunities vary in length of commitment and often include monthly meetings.
Contact: Interim Priest 612-824-2697
Email: office@st-lukes.net
Occasionally there are opportunities to participate in offering input and planning for the greater Episcopal Church in Minnesota (ECMN) by serving on various committees and/or initiatives. Information about opportunities is often listed in the weekly ECMN E News. Our Rector is also a good source for information about these endeavors. These opportunities vary in length of commitment and often include monthly meetings.
Miscellaneous Short Term Opportunities
Monthly Ministries
Wash Galley Kitchen stove and counter
Clean Galley Kitchen refrigerator
Organize Galley Kitchen cupboards
Replenish Lobby brochures rack
Set up/take down for Taizé service
Greet/usher as a family
Bring treats for coffee hour
Quarterly Ministries
Bake communion bread
Vacuum edges of Memorial Room carpet
Vacuum edges of Library carpet
Vacuum edges of Lobby/Cloak Room closet
Dust Library book shelves
Dust Library walls/light fixtures
Dust Memorial Room
Organize various closets under direction of Property
Wipe down Undercroft Kitchen surfaces
Northside of building yard maintenance
Annual Ministries
Organize Library books
Wash Bathroom curtains
Scrub Bathroom floor/walls
As Needed
Prepare meals
Provide transportation
Wash and iron tablecloths and linens
Paint Galley Kitchen
Furniture repair
Gather/arrange garden flowers for altar
Set up and take down for services
Church side windows décor
Summer choir
Additional details about these as-needed tasks are available in the full download of this document.
Wash Galley Kitchen stove and counter
Clean Galley Kitchen refrigerator
Organize Galley Kitchen cupboards
Replenish Lobby brochures rack
Set up/take down for Taizé service
Greet/usher as a family
Bring treats for coffee hour
Quarterly Ministries
Bake communion bread
Vacuum edges of Memorial Room carpet
Vacuum edges of Library carpet
Vacuum edges of Lobby/Cloak Room closet
Dust Library book shelves
Dust Library walls/light fixtures
Dust Memorial Room
Organize various closets under direction of Property
Wipe down Undercroft Kitchen surfaces
Northside of building yard maintenance
Annual Ministries
Organize Library books
Wash Bathroom curtains
Scrub Bathroom floor/walls
As Needed
Prepare meals
Provide transportation
Wash and iron tablecloths and linens
Paint Galley Kitchen
Furniture repair
Gather/arrange garden flowers for altar
Set up and take down for services
Church side windows décor
Summer choir
Additional details about these as-needed tasks are available in the full download of this document.