Ay Ay Captain Jesus!

The kids are loving the themed worship days. Yesterday was pajama day and we all wore our pj's and had breakfast for lunch. Here is a pic from today's theme, pirate day. Some of the kids made their own swords. It is too fun!

CREW trip to NELM day 4

Good morning to everyone! I wanted to upload some pictures so everyone could see how well the kids are doing. Today is pirate worship day and so far so good. We were not able to hike due to the heat but some of the kids chose to horse ride again. They are really enjoying that. The kids have decided that Stephen is a better way to get around than walking in this heat. Nikki, you would be proud of him. He has been a good sport about everything.

Hello from Rock Point Arizona

Hello to everyone. We are finally getting a chance to let you know we are alive and well. VBS is a huge success. You would be so proud of the CREW youth. We started the week with 21 kids and are now up to 35 and still growing. We start the day with a 1 hour worship and finish with lunch around noon. It is total chaos but the kids here are having a blast and the CREW is working hard. It is hot, and I mean hot, about 102 with not much airconditioning. We have been having fun in the afternoons. We went horseback riding and traveled to the 4 corners. Today a Navajo woman came to visit and teach us about their culture. Some of the kids are horseback riding again tonight. Tomorrow we learn how to make Navajo tacos and are going to a youth rodeo. I wish you could see our CREW working. They are as good as any counselor anywhere. CJ is especially popular with the jr. high girls. We miss everyone, but this is the best mission experience any of us have had.

Thank you, Hosanna

Dear friends,
Kathryn, James, Paul and Karen and I express our thanks for your sympathy and prayers at the loss of my mother. The cards were especially touching and thoughtful. The flowers were beautiful. Those who were able to attend the funeral were also comforting.
We also want to thank you for your long standing prayers. In many, many ways they were answered.
My dad is adjusting and is surrounded by incredible support.
God bless,
Pastor Tart

Pastor Tart's Thank You

Members of Hosanna,
I want to thank everyone for the very warm and gracious “Pastor Tart Roast” this past Sunday. The stories were fun and brought back many precious memories of our time together.
I especially want to thank Teresa White and Karole Coleman, the staff support team, the brass orchestra (I loved the song selection) and all those who helped them for hosting the meal and decorations. I want to also thank Jeff Hartmann for being the Master of Ceremonies. You did a great job!
I want to thank you for the card and gift. Your graciousness touches me deeply.
Kathryn and I want to thank our staff for two leather Evangelical Lutheran Worship hymnals. We will remember our sharing in the Gospel with you whenever we use them.
Finally, I want to thank Dale and Karole for the PowerPoint slide show. I will treasure it.
My final Sunday is upon us and I can only express my humility before all that we have shared with each other and the work we have done for the sake of the Gospel and the world. The Spirit has used us in powerful ways.
Kathryn, Paul, James, Karen and I wish you all of God’s richest blessings in the years ahead.
Thank you and God bless!
Pastor Tart

Mulkey Scholarship Awards

Congradulations to our Nancy and John Mulkey Scholarship reciepients. They are Abigail Brown, Melissa Burns, Michael Burns, Christine Carter, David Carter, Evan Haight, Marquette Henderson, Hannah McConn, Matthew Moore, Carly Oden, Daniel Ritter, Katie Romijn, Michael Smith, Karen Tart, Cassandra Whitby. They will be recognized on August 5 at the 11:00 service.

Sunday School teacher appreciation

I just want to take a moment to recognize those who chose to teach our youth this past year:
*Brach Waldo and Dolores Jaramillo for CREW
*Mike Black for confirmation
*Tom Friday for 5th and 6th
*Ann Hartmann and Amy Adams for 3rd and 4th
*Debbie Escovy for 1st and 2nd
*Beth Johnson and Theresa White for kindergarten and under
*Warren Escovy and Warren White for being C0-superintendents
These volunteers play such an important role at Hosanna and I want them to know how grateful the staff and congregation and especially the children are for their gift of time. The learning hour is a huge part of a child's faith journey and we thank you for your leadership. Have a wonderful summer!

Family Life News for June 2007

Hey Everyone! Hope your summer is off to a great start. What a wonderful school year we had. Let's make this summer just as fun. Things to remember this month:
*VBS starts Sunday night, June 10 at 5:30 with a meal. You can register by visiting the website.
*Summer Sunday school starts June 10 and we still need a couple more teachers. Please see Amber if you would like to help out. The curriculum is great and online for your convenience.
*CREW we will continue to meet this summer on Monday nights from 6:30 - 8:30. Also, your trip money will be due by July 1 so check your mail for your bill.
*Confirmands leave for camp this month. If you would like to drop them a line let me know and I will get you the address.
*Again, thanks to all the volunteers who made the past school year such a success.

My final “thoughts that seem important” by Pastor David Tart

For nine years I have been sharing with you my thoughts about spiritual things in this column and have enjoyed the challenge. I thank you for the honor of taking the time to read what is on your pastor’s mind.

For my final thought I join Jesus in his prayer that “all may be one”. When the people of God come together in mission and ministry then we become the visible sign of what the power of God does.

In the months ahead Hosanna has a great opportunity to come together to think of your future. In particular, the Natural Church development process holds out much hope in this area. The results of the survey are due back soon and the Congregation Health Team or Mission Focus will begin work to bring forward ideas to improve the congregations’ key characteristics. I hope that you will all become one in working together behind this strategy. This can not be the work of one team. It must be the work of the whole community.

I also hope that uniting behind your leadership will also become a sign of your oneness. Your leadership will need everyone’s support to continue God’s good work in this community. Hear their call when they ask for volunteers. Support them with prayer and solutions. Hosanna has dedicated leaders and they need your support.

Be one in your listening to each other and the affirmation of each other as fellow members of the body of Christ. Don’t take this church for granted. Hosanna is a gift and you are blessed to have this congregation to care, worship, share and learn. Continue to practice hospitality to all and see God at work in everyone. In the end I hope that I leave you united and connected with each other.

I know that I will continue to think of you and though this is my last “Thoughts that seem important” know that I will never cease thinking of you with a smile on my face and a prayer in my heart.

Remember: I think of you.

Opportunities for service

We have two team leadership positions open at Hosanna, Lay Leadership and Discipleship. Our elections are June 3. If you know of anyone who might have an interst or abilitities in this area, please contact Pastor Tart or Jeff Hartmann.

Sympathy to Georgia Bargmann and family.

Our sympathy to Georgia, Dale and Garrett Bargmann on the loss of her brother Garrett of Colorado who passed away on May 12. May the great peace and hope of Jesus surround them in their loss. -Pastor Tart

Sympathy to Jerry Fulin and Family

Our sympathy to Jerry Fulin and family on the loss of his mother, Vera Fulin of Milaca, Minnesota. She passed from this life to the next on May 15 at the age of 94. We pray for comfort and in thanksgiving for the blessings she brought to many people. -Pastor Tart

Pastor Tart's Resignation

May 7, 2007

Dear Members of Hosanna,

For almost nine years we have labored in God’s vineyard together and have experienced the joy of harvest many, many times. We have built buildings to serve as tools for God’s work, welcomed new members to God’s kingdom, reorganized the church around mission and ministry, expanded our staff, improved our stewardship and grown in our faith and service. Most of all, the memories of people will be with me for the rest of my life. I am also grateful for the love you have had for me and my family. One could not wish for a better community to raise our children. For all of this I will always be thankful to God and to you.

On April 29, Peace Lutheran Church of Pasadena, Texas voted to extend a call to me to serve as their Senior Pastor. After prayerful consideration I have decided to accept this call and bring my service as your pastor to an end. My last Sunday with you will be June 10 and my last day of service will be June 16.

I will honor wedding commitments that I have made and will be available as possible for funerals of Hosanna members during the interim period. Otherwise, I will refer all pastoral acts to your interim pastor and future pastor.

Rest assured that I am not accepting this call because I am unhappy or feel compelled to leave Hosanna. I have been proud to be your pastor and feel a bond of grace with everyone. I love working with our staff and leadership and count it an honor to have served with them.

I continue to uphold you in my prayers and find great strength and hope in your faith, love and commitment

Grace and Peace,


Pastor David Tart

Call From Peace Lutheran, Pasadena, Texas

On April 29 Peace Lutheran Church in Pasadena, Texas voted to extend a call to me as their senior pastor. I know this is a shock to you, but I kept it quiet to aid in my discernment process.
At our council meeting this upcoming Sunday I will be discussing with them my response. I will also be publicly announcing that I have received this call at services that morning. I have not made my final decision and will not until I have discussed it with the church council.
Please feel free to share this information with others.

I ask that all of us continue to be in prayer about the direction God wishes for us all. God is good and gracious and we can find great peace in being in God's hands.

Grace and Peace,
Pastor David Tart

Meals on Wheels Drivers desperately needed

NAM has suffered the loss of drivers to help with the much need meals on wheels program. If you have a couple of hours per month to spare to deliever hot meals to shut-ins, please contact NAM or Hosanna office. They can adjust to your schedule and you can switch with others. -Pastor Tart

Kamryn Woods has arrived!

Kamryn Christine Woods arrived at 3:34 pm - 8 lbs. 9 oz. on Tuesday April 24. Proud parents are Zahn and Amy Woods and proud brother is Kyle. We thank God for the miracle of life and his grace.

Thoughts that seem important by Pastor Tart

Thoughts that seem important:
The unspeakable horror of the Virginia Tech tragedy once again reveals to us the power of evil and sin in the world. We stand mystified before such a nightmare at how anyone could become that insane to want to kill innocent people. We want to blame. We want vengeance, but none of these things can bring us back to the day before the killings and injuries.
Mirabai Starr in her article “Shepherds in the Dark Night” in Sojourners Magazine, (Shepherds in the Dark Night) writes about “holding space” for grieving people. By this she means that we allow people the opportunity to express their shock, anger, and sadness. We stand with them in this place and honor their spiritual journey. Platitudes violate this space by communicating to the bereaved that they, “shouldn’t feel that way”. Instead we offer to them open ended questions and words of love and support.
As we still deal with the news let us hold the space for the grieving and also hold space for the people of random violence everywhere. We move to deeper understandings of the people of Iraq and those serving in Iraq who deal with this on a daily basis.
As people of faith we believe that the grace and hope of God will come to the space. As mentioned in her article, in the Psalm 23 the writer says, “Even though I walk through the shadow of death, I will fear no evil”. For a shadow to appear there has to be light.
In the space of grief, the light of the cross and resurrection shines and brings healing and hope. The space of grief with its tormenting pain, is a holy space. For those who find themselves is this holy space, we pray that faith, hope and love will abide.,
Remember: The holy space of grief.

Family Life News for May 2007

I hope everyone is gearing up for this summer. Kids, start loading up on bug spray and sunscreen. We are going to have a great summer at Hosanna with so much planned. If you need any help getting ready for camp and other summer activities please see Amber.

This summer we will have an evening VBS program for families. You can come have dinner with us and then spend the evening learning as a family. Sign up will begin around May 15th.

THRIVENT BUILDS! is May 5. Join the CREW in building the lutheran house. Meet in the parking lot at 8 am on the 5th. You can order shirts for this event for $5 from Amber. You may reserve your spot by emailing me at amber. walker@welcometohosanna.com

CREW:

• We will have breakfast at Denny's on May 6th. Meet in the CREW room.
• That night we will have a VBS meeting to make sure we have things in order. This is a mandatory meeting for anyone attending our mission trip.
• On May 20th we will be wrapping and blessing our graduating Srs. This years Srs. are Abby Brown, Melissa Burns, Christine Carter, Evan Haight, Cassandra Whitby, Dan Ritter, and Marquette Henderson.
• The last CREW Sunday night meeting will be May 27.

We are still collecting items for our VBS. Please stop by and pick up a list and make a donation. It all helps the kids.

A special thank you to the congregation from the CREW. We appreciate your support of our pancake breakfast.

Mother's Day is May 13th. Do something nice for mom and stop by the CREW Car Wash. We promise to treat her car extra special. Happy Mother's Day to all those wonderful mothers!

Congradulations to Heidi, Oliver, Audrey Smith and grandparents, Heda and Ron Christ

Tegen Smith, born on March 25 at 5 lbs 10 oz. He has a round face and lots of dark brown hair, pink skin and dark eyes that open frequently. He is a healthy baby. Thank God for the miracle of life

Mary Frerking in prayers today

Mary Frerking, 13 month old daughter of Stephen and Kristi, is having an outpatient surgery procedure for her ears today. Please pray for a safe proceedure. -Pastor Tart

Let's Pack the Pews at Park Place Lutheran Church

If anyone is interested in this contact Pastor Tart

Let's Pack the Pews at Park Place Lutheran Church, 8130 Park Place Blvd., Houston, on Sunday, April 22. Worship at Park Place begins at 9:00 a.m.

Park Place Lutheran will be closing some time this year. Before they close let's remember to say thank you to them.

The faithful at Park Place Lutheran have been sustained in Word and Sacrament ministry for many years. Their ministry has reached far and wide. They have touched the lives of many people in our congregations and in their community.

At Faith Lutheran, Bellaire, we are in the study of worship in the month of April. As we made plans we decided to worship with Park Place Lutheran to express our thanks. And then it was suggested to us to invite the rest of the area congregations to share this gratitude. Great idea!

Let's Pack the Pews! The sanctuary seats 500 worshipers. So, talk it up. Help people to carpool. Set them on the road in time for worship at 9:00 a.m. And for those who stay behind to worship at your church, please include Park Place Lutheran in your prayers.

Volunteers from Faith Lutheran are providing food after the service. (Did I say that the food comes without cost?) Encourage your folks stay for the free food, but we will need to have a rough estimate of the number of people attending so that enough food is prepared. (give us those rough numbers by April 17. 713-664-3048)

We also want to give a few minutes to any persons who want to share a story about Park Place. That will be done over food.

Have any questions. Give me a call. Herb Palmer at Faith Lutheran, Bellaire, 713-664-3048.

Get the word out as people gather to worship on Palm Sunday and Easter. Let's Pack the Pews at Park Place!

Are You Called to Serve at Hosanna?

The Hosanna Constitution states that the Treasurer, the Financial Secretary, the Secretary, and leaders of the Ministry Teams shall be elected by the congregation in odd-numbered years. This election will occur on June 3, and those elected will take office September 1.
The responsibility of preparing a slate of nominees for the June meeting belongs to the Lay Leadership Team. This team identifies willing individuals whose passions and gifts match the needs of the ministries, and issues calls to service to those individuals.
The Lay Leadership Team is requesting the help of the congregation in this process. On several Sundays in April and May forms will be handed out that will give members of the congregation the confidential opportunity to suggest themselves or others for consideration as nominees for the positions below.
Suggestions can also be made by e-mailing Teresa Albin before May 15th at teresa@welcometohosanna.com. In your email please state what you think qualifies this person to serve in this ministry.
The Lay Leadership Team will contact all individuals suggested to ascertain their willingness to serve, so you do not need to get the prior consent of the people you suggest. Nominees will be selected from those suggested to present to the congregation for election.
You may use a form found on our website on the documents-forms-policy page or one that will be distributed on Sunday morning beginning April 15.
Treasurer
Oversees the books of the accounts of this congregation; receives and oversees the distribution of all funds upon proper authorization; makes regular remittance of benevolence payments to the synod; report to the Finance Team at each of its regular meetings; and makes a full financial report at the annual meeting of the congregation.
Currently serving: George Carlson (eligible for re-election)
Financial Secretary
Maintains confidential records of member giving; serves as the coordinator of all collections of the church; responsible for preparation of individual statements of giving for each member and related general reporting to the Stewardship Team, the Finance Team, and the congregation.
Currently serving: Ann Dobberfuhl (eligible to serve first full term)
Secretary
Keeps minutes of the meetings of the congregation and the Congregation Council, issues notice of all meetings; works with the President to prepare agendas; maintains the congregation policy manual; and handles general congregation correspondence.
Currently serving: Maureen Kennedy (eligible to serve another term)
Care Team Leader
The purpose of the Care Team is help members care for each other and for the community. This includes ministries of service, fellowship, compassion and pastoral care.
Currently serving: Karole Coleman (will not run for reelection)
Discipleship Team Leader
The purpose of the Discipleship Team is to help members grow in their faith and share it with others, both within and outside of the congregation. This includes ministries of learning, youth and family, witnessing, and outreach.
Currently serving: Darryl Brown (not eligible to serve another term)
Spiritual Life Team Leader
The purpose of the Spiritual Life Team is to help members keep the presence and grace of God at the center of their lives together. This includes ministries of worship, prayer, music and devotional life.
Currently serving: Alysha Reed (eligible to serve a second term)
Stewardship Team Leader
The purpose of the Stewardship Team is to help God’s people grow in their relationship with Jesus through the use of time, talents and finances that God has entrusted to them. This includes ministries of property maintenance, giving and benevolence, personal financial management, and holistic health care
Currently serving: Nancy Agafitei (in discernment about a second term)

Habitat for Humanity and Thrivent Build

Another Family Needs Our Help Last year, through the Thrivent Builds with NW Harris County Habitat project, our Churches did more than help build a house. You brought the Williams Family home! Thanks to all volunteers from within and without the Lutheran Churches in Houston area, as well as other local volunteers, the Williams family now has a chance at economic independence. Your response was overwhelming, the outcome, life changing - not only for the homeowner family but for all those who worked side-by-side with them. This year we will partner with Natalie & Chris Gite and their four children, ages 14-12-9-3. They currently live in two bedrooms in the home of Chris's brother and sister-in-law (in total nine people are sharing a small three bedroom home). They moved out of their prior home because it was beyond repair and uninhabitable. Chris works at Randstad. The Gites are honest, hard-working folks determined to make things better for their family. The Thrivent Builds project, located in Tomball, begins on March 31 and continues through October 6; taking a break from July through August. According to the requirement of the program 50% of the construction volunteers must be Lutheran. Thrivent is providing 65% of the house cost, Habitat is providing 25% and the Thrivent members and Lutherans are raising 10%. Raising funds is not required to volunteer, however, fund-raising is essential. If each Lutheran church in this area contributes $291.50 we will reach our goal of raising $5,830. Habitat’s 3 bedroom/1 bath home is 1120 square feet and costs $45,000 to build. That equates to about $40 per square foot for our Habitat houses. Can you sponsor a square foot? The bathroom? Or maybe even a bedroom? Call Lydia Schumann on 281-469-0931, or after hours 281-380-9196. E-mail me at Lydia.Schumann@thrivent.com Thank you in advance for your generosity. Sincerely,Lydia Schumann Financial Office Administrative Professional Texas Region Champions Park Associates 9720 Cypresswood Drive, Suite 120, Houston, TX 77070 Office: 281-469-0931 Toll-free: 888-873-8335 Fax: 281-894-4305 Email: lydia.schumann@thrivent.com

Sympathy to Pam Smith and family

Sympathy to Pam Smith on the loss of her 100 year old grandmother,
Harriet Scharringhausen. May the great God of peace and love surround the family as they give thanks to God for her long and beautiful life. -Pastor Tart

April Family Life Update

This is a busy month, so let's get going...
CREW:
Breakfast at Denny's on April 1. Meet in the CREW room
Easter Breakfast Fundraiser on April 8 from 8-12. Free will offering.
Jr. Day at TLU. We leave at 7 am on April 21 and get back at noon on Sunday, $25 cost.
Remember: our trip is coming up soon. Final costs will be available after Mother's Day.
No CREW on April 8 because of Easter.

Maunday Thursday Family Service is April 5 at 6:15. This is a great service to bring young children and invite friends to visit.

Annual Easter Egg Hunt is April 7 at 10 am. Everyone is welcome. Please bring a snack to share that morning. Confirmation will be in charge. See Valerie Oden for more information.

VBS: We will be having an evening VBS this year the week of June 11-15. This will include a dinner served at 5:30. If you would like to be involved please contact Amber or Susan Greer. We will also have a table set up for donations for crafts and games. Please pick up a list of items needed and consider helping out. Thanks!

Easter Egg Hunt

Hosanna will have it's annual Egg Hunt on Saturday, April 7 at 10 am. To prepare for this, Confirmation is asking for donations of candy and small toys to be left in the narthex. All candy must be individually wrapped and received by April 1. Please see Valerie Oden for questions.

Second Quarter Spending Priorities (April-June)

2007 Second Quarter Spending Priorities
Critical Items are those that we are legally and financially obligated to pay. The rest are paid based on income. The leadership establishes the priorities and the Finance Team determines when these can be funded.
We want to continue to attach our offerings with our mission. We ask that you consider to be generous based on your own spiritual journey with Christ. The more we give the more wonderful work we can do in Christ's name. We are thankful for everyone's support with both time and treasure. Without you Hosanna can not be.
At our April 15 congregation meeting everyone can have an opportunity to comment or ask questions about this process. Because of congregation action and finance team recommendation, the council leadership reluctantly moved benevolence from critical to high priority item.
-Pastor Tart

1. Critical Building Maintenance (utilities, repair, lawn mowing): 11398
2. Critical Staff Support and Administration: (salaries, benefits, phone, office contracts) 58000
3. Critical Finance Team (insurance): 2300
4. Lay Leadership (synod assembly): 800
5. Care (Habitat for Humanity covenant) 500
6. Discipleship ( crew summer trip, vacation bible school, The Lutheran, devotional
booklets, faith chests): 4863
7. Spiritual life (Easter music) : 360
9. Benevolence: 5400
10. Mission Focus (NCD Survey) : 200
11. Stewardship (cleaning of carpets, nave remodeling, bell tower repainting): 2990

Total: 86811

Sympathy to Ronnie Gunhouse and family

We extend our sympathy to Ronnie Gunhouse and family on the loss of his father, Gerald Gunhouse. Services are pending at Klein Funeral Home. -Pastor Tart

Thoughts that seem important by Pastor Tart

Recently there was a documentary that proposed that a group of archeologist had “discovered the family tomb of Jesus”. By the using of evidence that would never stand up in a court of law or even be acknowledged as legitimate by most scholars, they conjure up the idea that a collection of bones in boxes with names inscribed on them belong to the family of Jesus. I watched the program and heard their presentation to only in the end shake my head. After 2000 years people are still looking for a dead body. I thought to myself, “go ahead and dig in the dirt and speculate, because I don’t have to dig for Jesus. I have to only see the power of his presence today and know that he lives.” He just is not some hole in the ground.
When I see the people of God gathered as one around the meal of Jesus, I know he lives. When I see people find new hope and new lives because of the grace of the cross, I know that he lives. When I stand next to a grave and find faith that yes I will see this person again, I know he lives. When I pray to him and have my worries lifted off my shoulders, I know that he lives.
I don’t have to dig in holes to find Jesus, I have only to believe and lift up my voice with the baptized and sing, “I know that my redeemer lives. What comfort this sweet sentence gives! He lives, he lives, who once was dead; he lives, my everliving head!” ( words by Samuel Medley)
Yes he lives and his presence and power fills our lives today.

Sympathy to Nancy Agafitei and family

Our prayers are with Nancy and family in the loss of her uncle, Howard Edmunds of Houston. -Pastor Tart

CREW T-shirts

This is the last Sunday to place your order for a spring CREW t-shirt. You may order a pink w/lime lettering or turquoise w/lime lettering shirt. The cost is $11. You can leave your size and money in my mail slot or give it to me. Next years freshman may want to order now. Anyone can place an order!

Spring Retreats at Lutherill

The annual Spring Retreat us coming up soon. This event is a great chance to come out to Lutherhill and hang out with old friends and make some new ones. Youth will get a chance to play games, canoe, and worship in the outdoors. See Amber if you would like a registration form. Here are the details:
Session 1: 7 pm Friday, March 23 to 4 pm March 24th for 3rd - 6th grade
Session 2: 7 pm Saturday, March 30th to 4 pm Sunday, March 31st for Jr. and Sr High.
Cost is $50 per youth.

Valerie is home

Valerie Oden came home today from St. Lukes. She is doing much bettter- Pastor Tart

Valerie update

I visited with Valerie and Ted yesterday and found them both in good spirits. The surgery might not be necessary. They are not sure of the diagnosis, but think she has viral meningitis. (all of this she has given me permission to share) She is still at St. Luke's downtown in room 2262 (yellow elevators). She appreciates the expressions of love and support from her Hosanna community. I think the best way to support her is with prayer, cards or offer to bring food by when she comes home. -Pastor Tart

Valerie Oden Update

Valerie surgery has been postponed and we are waiting more tests results- Pastor Tart

Valerie Oden Update

Valerie has been moved to St. Lukes Downtown for surgery this morning. For information contact Pastor Tart at the office

Hospitalized update

Valerie Oden was hospitalized today at Memorial Herman in the Woodlands
Shirley Leach has gone home
Frances Perez has gone home
Evan Haight will have out patient surgery tommorrow

Augsburg-Fortress CEO and President, Beth Lewis contacts Hosanna

Beth Lewis contacted me this week to arrange a meeting with her to discuss Hosanna's use of Augsburg-Fortress' (the ELCA's publishing house) online resources and our website. She will be in Galveston with the Conference of Bishop's meeting and I will meet her there. This is a nice complement to the direction of our website and reveals Hosanna as one of the leading congregations in developing and using online resources. Congradulations to Dale B. and his work on our website.

The Lenten Journey to Holy Week Continues

Crown Him the Lord of Love” Lenten Series Continues

Note that we are meeting on Wednesdays this year. Schedule is 5:45 soup supper, 6:45 worship

We will be reading from a chapter of 1 John each week. I invite you to read the chapter of the week before worship. I will be using selected verses for my preaching text. The preaching themes for each week are as follows:
March 7: 1 John 2, “Abiding in Love for Others”
March 14: 1 John 3 “Living out of love”
March 21: 1 John 4 “The God of Love”
March 28: 1 John 5 “The Boldness of Love”

Thanks to the Sunday School Staff

We had a great meeting last Sunday morning. In all, Akaloo is a success and we will continue the online curriculum for next year. The teachers and leaders are doing a great job but they need your help. Our Sunday School program can not run without you. I would encourage every member, with and with out children, to pray and consider teaching a class next year. This could be such a great time for you. I promise that you will receive as much as you give. Our kids are great, but they need affirming adults who can walk beside them on their faith journey. If you are interested please see me and let's talk!

Family Life News for March

March is the quiet before the storm. There is not much going on this month, but get ready for April. We will be super busy next month, so enjoy the break!
CREW will not meet on Sunday, the 4th for evening bible studybut we will go to Dennys during the Sunday School hour.
On March 15th there will be a table set out with lists of VBS items to collect for this summer. We are hoping to get most of the items needed for crafts and games donated. Please consider taking a look at the list and contributing. Thank you.
I will meet with confirmation for the last time on Sunday, March 25 from 7-8. I will have something fun planned for you guys!

Edmunds Obituary

Robert Henry Edmunds

ROBERT HENRY EDMUNDS, age 87, passed away on February 22, 2007 in Houston, Texas. He is survived by his daughters, Nancy Agafitei & husband Petru and Mary Edmunds; son, Paul Edmunds & wife Tracy; grandchildren, Victor Agafitei, Kerry Blackmon & husband Jim, Courtney Brush & husband Jeremy; great granddaughter, Kylee Blackmon; brother, Howard Edmunds; a nephew and many nieces and friends. Visitation will be held Friday from 7:00 to 9:00 pm at Brookside Funeral Home Champions. Funeral Services will be held 11:00 AM on Saturday, February 24, 2007 at Hosanna Lutheran Church, 16526 Ella Blvd., Houston, TX 77090 with Rev. David Tart officiating. Interment will be at First Lutheran Cemetery in Alsip, Illinois. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Hosanna Lutheran Church.

From Nancy A

The visitation at Brookside has been scheduled for 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm on Friday evening. The service will be at 11:00 on Saturday at Hosanna Lutheran Church. Dad will be flown to Illinois on Sunday morning. The burial will be at First Lutheran Cemetery in Alsip, Illinois, on Tuesday at 1:00. Thanks to everyone who has supported us with their visits, and love and prayers during this time.

Bob Edmunds Passed Away

Bob Edmunds passed from death to life this morning. May the holy angels recieve him as he is reunited with those who have gone before him. The funeral will be on Saturday at 11:00 here at Hosanna. A visitiation is being planned for Friday. For more information contact the church office. -Pastor Tart

hospitalization update

Shirley Leach is still at Kingwood Hospital
Frances Perez was hospitalized at Methodist in the Texas Medical Center and should come home today
Bob Edmunds has been moved the The Hampton at Cypress Station- Pastor Tart

Latest on Bob Edmunds

On Monday evening, Bob was transported by ambulance from Heartland nursing home back to Houston Northwest Hospital, Room 686. He has been diagnosed with a very serious case of pneumonia. We are watching and waiting and praying

Spanish Evening Worship Hosts Needed

We are looking for hosts to assist with opening and closing the church, ushering and greeting on Saturdays from 5:30-7:15. We would like to have a group of about 6-10 people who can share in this responsibility. If you are interested, contact Pastor Tart or Cantor Gay.

Hospitalized Update

Shirley Leach is in Kingwood Hospital, rm 1122

Happy Birthday and Thanks to Dale Bargmann

This past Sunday, Feb 18, Dale celebrated a milestone birthday. I know he doesn't look it, but he turned 60! I want to share with you just how much Dale does for our church and the hours of dedicated service he shares with us. He is always helpful and many times goes beyond what is required to help in anyway possible. His service on our website has made it a premier website in the ELCA. He communicates diligently with the congregation though his cyberline email. He prepares the bulletin and newsletter. He covers office hours when asked to. He leads our Wednesday Bible study when I am unable to. He offers to lead Bible Studies in the evening. He prepares world renown online presentations about Martin Luther and the Holy Land. (We had a tour guide from Jerusalem contact us about how helpful his slide show of the city was.) He provides artwork for our sanctuary. He does all of this on a part time stipend.

On top of this he is kind and humble. His faith shines in his love of the church and doing work of our Lord Jesus Christ. He also takes care for his special needs stepson Garrett.
Thank you, Dale. You are a pleasure to work with and Hosanna is grateful for you. -Pastor Tart

HOSANNA LUTHERAN CHURCH THIRTIETH ANNUAL CONGREGATION MEETING

As there were not enough members present to qualify for a quorum, the following items were presented for information purposes only.

National Church Development was presented by Pastor Tart and President Jeff Hartmann. Pastor Tart began by explaining what NCD is and that it is a long, ongoing process that results in a healthier and better church. There will be a Health Team, chaired by Lorraine Moore. George Posey and Jo Oddo have already volunteered to be on that team. The Health Team will make decisions and the ELCA has already approved the process. There will be a Coach, (outside observer) who will monitor the process and lead us in a forward motion. The process will consist of written surveys. These surveys will be given to 30 randomly selected, active, confirmed members. There will be more than one survey and each survey costs $200.00 for the 30 member team. Data from these surveys will be used to make recommendations for a better church. With each new survey, 30 different members will be chosen to participate. As was mentioned before, this is an ongoing process that will take years to complete.

Finance Team Leader, Ed Williams, discussed the Finance Report that was contained in the meeting packet..

A surprise presentation was made to Jo Oddo by Pastor Tart. Pastor Tart presented Jo with Carmine Stahl’s Communion Kit to use in her ministry. Carmine wanted to give the kit to Jo in appreciation of her continued devotion to her ministry both to him and to Mary Lou as well as other members of the congregation. Jo was speechless at first but was able to address the congregation with a very interesting and entertaining message. She started out with the question, “Is it I Lord?” with regard to how she started out on this special path that she has chosen in her ministry to Hosanna. She assured the members that any and all discussions that are held in her visits are kept completely confidential and that Pastor Tart is the only other person involved in this care.

For the Good of the Church – Pastor Erbey Gonzales spoke on the proposal to have a Spanish Saturday Evening Service. Pastor Erbey spoke at length on the Ministry that will be the Spanish and Bi-Lingual services. The first service in Spanish will be held on the last Saturday in February at 6:00 pm. There will also be Bi-Lingual services, e.g. Easter Vigil, for the purpose of bringing everyone together. There is funding in place for six months from a grant but at some point in time, Hosanna will take ownership of this ministry. There is a plan to form a Host Team of six (6) people to open up the church on Saturdays and to stay around to welcome and assist.

Pastor Gonzales was followed by Pastor Roberto Navarro, a retired Pastor who also related the need for this type of service. He explained that many of the people who have a need for these services are also people in crisis who especially have a need for Spiritual Guidance. He related that the folks who want to participate have many talents and that they want to share them with the church.


Thanks were given for the meal, (lasagna and salad with garlic bread for those who missed the meeting.)

Dale Bargmann reminded everyone that there will be bible study on Wednesday nights and that he is working on a CD/DVD titled “Hosanna Is” which will be used to advise the surrounding neighborhood that Hosanna is there and what we are about.

There will be a Special Congregation Meeting on February 25, 2007 for the purpose of voting on the following:

Minutes of the Twenty-Ninth Annual Congregation Meeting of February 12, 2006.

Minutes of the December 3, 2006 Congregation Meeting.

Approval of 2006 Annual Reports

Election of Voting Members and Alternates to the 2007 Synod Assembly, May 31 – June 2 in The Woodlands.

Ratification of Amendments


Maureen Kennedy
Secretary

Thanks for the "wing" support

We want to thank everyone who helped with the Super Bowl Buffalo Hotwing sale and htose who bought 86 dozen wings. Despite a drop in sales from last year, we still made, with matching funds from Thrivent, about $1000.00 toward our summer CREW service trip. We want to especially thank Tripp and Pam Smith for their great effort and dedication. Their love for our youth shines! God bless- Pastor Tart

Lenten Journey Continues

Crown Him the Lord of Love” Lenten Serie conitnues,
Note that we are meeting on Wednesdays this year. Schedule is 5:45 soup supper, worship 6:45

We will be reading from a chapter of 1 John each week. I invite you to read the chapter of the week before worship. I will be using selected verses for my preaching text. The preaching themes for each week are as follows:March 7: John 2, “Abiding in love for others”March 14: John 3 “Living out of love”March 21: John 4 “The God of Love”March 28: John 5 “The Boldness of Love”-Pastor Tart

Blog reader survey

If you are reading the blog please post a comment to this post. You can also mention what you like or don't like. -Pastor Tart

Thoughts that seem important by Pastor Tart

I remember a song from my youth growing up in the church and working at summer camp at Camp Chrysalis in Kerrville, Texas. I can close my eyes and conjure up a memory of all the campers and staff singing “They will know we are Christians by our love” around a crackling campfire at evening worship. The song leaders would be playing their guitars and the campers would have the arms around each other’s shoulders and swaying to the music and lyrics. “We will walk with each other; we will walk hand in hand. We will walk with each other; we will walk hand and hand. And we will share the news that God is in this land. And they will know we are Christians by our love, by our love. Yes, they will know we are Christians by our love. We will work with each other; we will work side by side. We will work with each other; we will work side by side and we will guard each one’s dignity and guard each one’s pride. And they will know we are Christians by our love, by our love. Yes, they will know we are Christians by our love.”
Man, I can smell the smoke and hear the singing like they were yesterday.
I really like the last verse. ‘we will guard each one’s dignity and guard each one’s pride’. Whenever we work together in the church, our work or families, we can easily lose sight of the importance of protecting the dignity and pride of others. Maybe what really sets our Christian work apart from other work is that we work together without attacking each other or insulting each other or berating each other. We seek to first understand before we seek to be understood. This is Christian love.
During our Lenten journey we will be learning about how love casts out fear. I have a strong sense that when we work together to protect dignity and pride, people are not afraid to share their thoughts and reconcile differences. When we lose this protection, problems and unresolved issues go underground where they fester and become only worse. When we know that others love us and we love others, we can share and talk and truly work together, and the world will know that we are Christians by our love.
Remember: They will know that we are Christians by our love.

From Amber Walker, our family life minister

The new priority management spending system voted in by the congregation is forcing us as a congregation to be accountable to the programs we hold dear. Under the new system, all programs are prioritized and then funded based on a critical, high, medium or low priority grading system. To date, only critical items will be automatically funded. What this means for our youth is that based on January’s giving pattern the finance team has determined that no program for youth can be funded unless the giving increases. (January Financial statement is posted in the north narthex) The only youth item that is graded as critical is Sunday School curriculum which is funded in August. The programs that need to be funded between now and July are: camp subsidies, vacation bible school, all milestones (baptisms, graduates, driver’s license, mentors, 1st communion), all youth trips and retreats (CREW and LYO), confirmation materials, children's bulletins, Easter egg hunt, Easter music, children's choir party. I am hoping that you, the members of Hosanna, will realize how important your giving is to our kids. Please consider joining me in writing a check, or going online to make a contribution to our general fund. Remember: ASK, THANK, TELL

Congratulations to Kevin and Heather McConnell

Congratulations to Kevin, Heather and Kaylee McConnell on the birth of son and brother, Camden Edward. He was born Feb. 15 and weighed 7lbs 6oz and was 19.5 inches long. Proud grandparents are Bob and Nerisa McConnell and her parents, David and Terri

Happy Valentine's Day

Just out of curiosity, if you are reading this post today, could you comment back with a return greeting? I am interested in how many read the blog. -Pastor Tart

Bob Edmunds update

Bob was transferred to Heartland Health Center near Willowbrook Mall, Room 304 last night. He will be undergoing rehabilitation. We have created a carepage for him so that you can keep up with his condition. Go to our carepages link on on home page and follow the directions to join his carepage. Once you have joined his carepage you will receive email notifications of changes and have an opportunity to send an email message. It also provides a great place for us to coordinate our care of Bob and his family. -Pastor Tart

Hospitalization update

Bob Edmunds has been moved to room 465 at Houston Northwest. Keep him in your prayers as he recovers

From Amber Walker, our family life minister

The new priority management spending system voted in by the congregation is forcing myself and the congregation to be accountable to the programs we hold dear. Under the new system, all programs are prioritized and then funded based on a critical, high, medium or low priority grading system. To date, only critical items will be automatically funded. What this means for our youth is that based on our current giving pattern the finance team has determined that no program for youth can be funded unless the giving increases. The only youth item that is graded as critical is Sunday School curriculum which is funded in August. The programs that need to be funded between now and July are: camp subsidies, vacation bible school, all milestones (baptisms, graduates, drivers license, mentors, 1st communion), all youth trips and retreats (CREW and LYO), confirmation materials, children's bulletins, Easter egg hunt, Easter music, children's choir party. I am hoping that you, the members of Hosanna, will realize how important your giving is to our kids. Please consider joining me in writing a check, or going online to make a contribution to our general fund.

CREW vs. Confirmation @ bowling

Okay, here are the details. We will bowl Sunday, Feb 18 at the AMF Diamond Lanes on North Forest. We will bowl from 6-8 and the cost is $10 per person. You can meet at church at 5:45 for a ride or meet there at 6pm. For other info call Amber at 281-795-5367.

Seminary Scholarships

I recieved this email from our synod and invite members to consider supporting this effort. I like the idea of "never being without a seminarian". If you are interested in this kind of support, contact me or the Stewardship Team.

Dear Colleagues in Ministry,

Your immediate help is needed. Due to a shortage of funds, our synod was only able to give scholarship monies to six of the Gulf Coast Synod's Master of Divinity students. For the 2007 Spring Scholarships we had $7000 to distribute between nine seminarians and this does not include our TEEM or AIM candidates. We had to choose between those with the greatest need. It was a difficult and heart wrenching decision.

Our synod is committed to providing pastoral leadership for every congregation and training leaders for service in the Church. Some seminarians are graduating with staggering debt loads that take years to repay. Some must decline specific calls for financial reasons. Your help is needed so that those graduating from seminary will have a sound financial foundation, allowing them to serve any congregation in our synod.

Here are some ways that you and your congregation can help:
Receive a special offering, possibly a "noisy offering" for seminary scholarships.
Designate your 2007 Lenten Offerings for Seminary Scholarships.
If your congregation has a Seminarian Fund and you don't currently have a seminarian in your congregation, adopt a seminarian until that time in which you do. Never be without a seminarian.
In the future put this in your budget along with your seminary support.

You can mail your check to the Texas-Louisiana Gulf Coast Synod
12707 North Freeway, #580
Houston, TX 77060-1239

It's not too late to make this semester a little easier for these students. No amount is too small.

We continue to have the goal of paying the entire cost of a seminarian's theological education without assistance from other scholarship sources. There is no finer investment in the future of Christ's Church than a gift to support the training of our future pastors!

Thank you for your consideration and generous help!
Liz Stein,
Director for Leadership

Annual Meeting has been moved to Feb 25

We were 2 or 3 people short of quorum at our meeting on Feb. 11. So we have moved the annual meeting to after the 11:00 service on Feb 25. We have two items of business that need congregational votes: Approval of the annual reports and election of delegates. The meeting will be short, so please plan on staying. We will not have a meal and will have the meeting in the sanctuary.
Despite not having a quorum, we still had a very productive time. The group was very supportive of embracing Natural Church Development and the Saturday Evening Spanish Service. We want to thank all those who were able to stay and their enthusiasm for the presentations. Also, we want to thank Teresa A. and Teresa W. for their work in putting the meal together.
Paper copies of the annual reports are in the narthex or available electronically on our website in the “policies, forms, reports” webpage. (the link is on our home page or click, http://welcometohosanna.com/Forms_page.htm)

Hospitalized update

Shirley Leach has come home.
Bob Edmunds is still hospitalized
Jan Ammerman should come home today.

Men's Bar-b-que, Feb 26 6:30

Men of Hosanna Annual Catered Bar-B-Q Dinner
Monday, February 26 @ 6:30 PM Hosanna Fellowship Hall (north side), followed by assembly of Care Packages for our college/university youth, those in the military, Peace Corps and graduating high school seniors.
Cost: $8.50 in advance. Sign up in the north Narthex. Bring a friend or neighbor.
Contributions are still needed to fund this project. Place cash or check (made out to “Men of Hosanna”) in an envelope addressed to Bob McConnell

Hospitalized

Shirley Leach, should have come home today,
Bob Edmunds, surgery on Friday
Jan Ammermann, surgery of Friday (moved from Thursday)
Jody Cantello, home -Pastor Tart

Update on NAM from Carol Little NAM director

I hope this letter finds you well and hopefully off to a wonderful start this New Year. I was extremely delighted when the weather finally turned a little cooler, which seemed much more in line with the season. I know others felt the same as donations definitely picked up! It was tough for many, including me, to get into the spirit of the season with unseasonably warm weather.In an effort to continue addressing the ever-growing demand for social services in northwest Harris County, NAM's budget has grown to its current projected $9.2 million. This figure does not include the NAM Endowment Fund, which has a current annual fundraising goal of $250,000 to add to the $1.4 million already raised. In hopes of keeping you informed of the general happenings at NAM, I will attempt to update you between Clergy meetings with a brief summary of events.For those of you who are new to NAM, the last quarter of the calendar year is always the busiest time, much like it is for the congregations. During this time, we raise the majority of the contributions that will serve as the financial foundation for NAM's programs the rest of the year.During November and December, NAM staff members worked diligently to meet the needs of the thousands of children and their families who depend on us to provide a brighter Thanksgiving and happy December holidays in an effort to offset their day-to-day struggles. This year the need was unprecedented as NAM provided toys to more than 3,000 children through the generosity of the community. NAM staff and volunteers distributed holiday food to more than 900 families for Thanksgiving and to more than 1,200 families for the December holidays. During this time, NAM continued to provide meals to the more than 900 families who receive food each month throughout the year. NAM volunteers and staff logged more than 250,000 hours throughout these last two months to make our community a better place. NAM's lobby was filled with holiday cheer this year as Caldwell Watson provided music and entertainment that put smiles on many faces. We were graced with the Harbor Light Choir for several days and the Cy-Fair ISD Singers joined us as well.The Executive Board's Planning Committee has been moving forward in its exploration of expanding the Children's Clinic to include primary adult healthcare to the uninsured in the space formerly occupied by Kelsey Seybold. We prepared a presentation for the January board meeting, and board members made a decision to further explore the possibilities of expansion.The Congregational Liaisons on the NAM Executive Board have been busy putting together a strategy to renew ties with existing congregations, and the second clergy meeting of the fiscal year will be held on February 8th. The meeting's purpose is to discuss the corporate structure of the NAM By Laws with the NAM clergy. The By Laws currently list the Trustees as holding the fiduciary responsibility for NAM .In addition, the Spring Seventh Day Adventists - Pastor John McFarlane was presented to the Board of Trustees in January as a new covenant congregation, which brings our total number of Covenant Congregations to 49! If you would like a link from our website to yours, please e-mail Randy Cypret at rcypret@namonline.org and let him know. Also, we respectfully request you include a link to NAM's website as a missions link, volunteer opportunities link or for those seeking social services.We are pleased to inform you that during December we received a number of sizeable gifts from area foundations so although it will be a tight year, we are on track for a stronger fiscal year than the last one.The NAM Endowment Fund Board members this year will focus on raising enough money to pay down the building note which is approximately $1.2 million.As with many organizations, NAM has faced its share of staffing challenges this quarter. Our food pantry coordinator was in a serious car accident in November and has not been able to return to work. NAM's Director for Service Programs, Selena Mason, was forced to resign last week after struggling for more than two months with complications from pneumonia. Peggie Ney, NAM's Volunteer Coordinator, retired after more than ten years of faithful service to our community, and Alisha Roberts, NAM's Events Coordinator, left us to accept a position in the private sector.We remain on course, in spite of the challenges, thanks to the generosity of our community and the hard work and efforts of Board members, staff and volunteers. We have much to be grateful for in 2006 and much to be hopeful for in 2007.

Prayer Concerns

Bob Edmunds hospitalized at Houston Northwest
Jan Ammerman surgery Feb 8
Jody Cantello, hospitalized at Houston Northwest
Shirley Leach, hopsitalized at Houston Northeast - Pastor Tart

Annual Meeting, Feb 11 after 11:00 service

I want to remind everyone about our annual meeting this Sunday after the 11:00 service. A meal will be served. The agenda can be found on our calendar.
Also be sure to check out the annual reports on the Policy, Reports, Forms link on our welcometohosanna.com home page. -Pastor Tart

CREW vs. Confirmation @ bowling

Hey you guys! The CREW would like to challenge the confirmation class to bowling on Sunday, Feb 18 from 6-8. Are you up for it? More information to come next week.

Congress Encourages IRA Gifts by People Over Age 70 1/2

I recieved this from our synod office.

Talk about a senior discount!

Congress has revised the tax law to permit donors over age 70 1/2 to make charitable gifts through their IRAs. The new law states that people age 70 1/2 and older can instruct IRA trustees to make transfers to organizations they support without incurring taxable income on those amounts. Up to $100,000 can be given in this manner, both in 2006 and 2007.

No income tax deductions are available for IRA gifts, but IRA donors can still save significant taxes. In fact, making charitable contributions through your IRA in 2006 and 2007 can enable you to increase the size of gift.

How does the new law let me increase my gifts?

IRA funds are heavily taxed whenever you draw them out, at rates as high as 35%. What's more, the tax burden never goes away - even your heirs will pay income tax on IRA funds they receive from your estate, and federal estate taxes may apply as well.

During 2006 and 2007 you have a satisfying alternative: Instead of sending so much tax off to Washington, DC, you can divert the tax collector's "take" from your IRA to a worthwhile cause.

Suppose you ordinarily send Concordia a check for $1,000 every year. Instead of writing a check, you instruct your IRA trustee to send us $1,333 (assuming you are in the 25% tax bracket.) If you had withdrawn $1,000 from you account, the tax would have been $333 in a 25% bracket. That $333 now can be used to advance our mission - and you will have increased your support by one-third, all paid for by the IRS. The chart below provides other examples and additional detail.

Giving Through Your IRA
If Your Anticipated 2006 Gift Would Have Been:
$100 $500 $1,000 $5,000 $10,000
Tax Bracket You Can Increase to This Amount - Free - by Giving Through Your IRA
15% $117 $588 $1,176 $5,882 $11,764
25 133 666 1,333 6,666 13,333
28 139 694 1,390 6,944 13,888
33 149 746 1,490 7,462 14,925
35 153 769 1,538 7,692 15,384

To calculate different IRA gift amounts than those shown, simply divide your normal gift amount by 1.0 minus your tax bracket. For example a person in the 28% bracket who usually give $1,200 could give $1,200 divided by 0.72, or $1,667, through an IRA at no additional cost. For unmarried taxpayers, the 15% tax bracket begins at $7,550 of taxable income; 25% at $30,650; 28% at $74,200; 33% at $154,800 and 35% at $336,550. For joint returns, the 15% bracket starts at $15,100; 25% at $61,300; 28% at $123,700; 33% at $188,450; 35% at $336,550.

Proposal from the Bishop

I recieved this email from the Bishop. If you think this is something that Hosanna should support, contact Jeff Hartmann or myself- Pastor Tart

This note is a follow-up from the conversation we had at the Theological Conference earlier this week. For those who were not able to attend, I will begin with a brief explanation and then provide suggestions and directions for responses.

Mission Partner Congregations for Galilean, La Place, LA

Galilean Lutheran, La Place, is in need of about 20 “Mission Partner” congregations for the next three years. This congregation, which is more than 20 years old, has never been able to take the step of refinancing the lease from Mission Investment Fund into a self-sustaining loan. We’ve worked to accomplish that goal for over ten years with intentional plans (usually in a two year cycle), but each time we come to the place where the loan is to be issued, something has interrupted the process. MIF has now determined they can no longer continue holding the lease on the property and will either have to sell the property OR Galilean will have to find a way to take out a loan and begin to service it as owners of the property.

The Post-Katrina reality of La Place is that about 15,000 – 18,000 new residents have arrived in town. The area just west of Kenner and about 50 miles east of Baton Rouge is a place where these dislocated folks have now settled. The vineyard has grown substantially and the harvest is ripe – to use a couple of familiar images. We don’t want to lose this opportunity in terms of our Lutheran presence and witness.

I have identified a pastor who the call committee at Galilean is interviewing. She and I talked today and she is very excited about the possibility of coming to lead this congregation into the future God has planned for it. They have invited her back for an second interview and she will lead worship for them on February 11th. She is a second career pastor (who served 12 years as a legislator in the Wisconsin State Congress) and is mature in many good ways – an excellent match for the context.

I have committed to provide the financial resources for her compensation package for the first year out of funds received for recovery and relief from the hurricanes. However, the congregation needs some assistance, still, in getting the loan in place and serving it so they can gain some momentum and strength to grow and become fully self supporting in the three year window.

The Proposal:

I am asking each of you to discern and invite your congregation to become one of those Mission Partner Congregations. The commitment would involve providing $200 to $500 per month for three years to help them qualify and service the loan. Their debt is still fairly significant (somewhere in the $350,000 – 400,000 range I believe. (This was one of the “Fast Start Congregations” the former LCA developed – which meant land was purchased, a building put up, a pastor called and then the pastor was to grow the congregation. And, “oh by the way, you also have a mortgage of several hundred thousand” – which turned out to be a burden of such immensity that we’ve closed 3 or 4 of those fast starts since I’ve been bishop already. We’d like to keep our presence in La Place if at all possible.)

Will you please ask your congregation to consider becoming one of the mission partner congregations?

The Process

We will ask you, as a congregation, to sign a very simply document making the commitment to be a Mission Partner and indicating the amount you will provide each month for 3 years.

The check each month will be sent directly to Galilean, marked as a Mission Partner gift. The funds will not be restricted, per se, but the intention is that the first funds received will always be applied to the new loan. Any other funds will then be used for compensation for the pastor (and other staff as that grows into place) as well as for programming, etc.

As noted above, I’m going to provide the bulk of the funds for the compensation of the pastor for the first year. When years two and three arrive, they will have to be prepared to step in and provide that on their own – but perhaps, then, with the mission partner support. By year four, it is hoped they will be fully self-supporting in every way.

I am convinced that a three year window is a reasonable time line for this to allow them to become financially capable, solid in ministry, etc. If that does not prove to be the case, then the next bishop and other leaders will have to make a decision about whether to keep this ministry there or not. But, that’s not where we want to head or are heading now.

A Response:

When you have made a determination about being a mission partner in this situation, would you kindly contact me at the synod office? (Even if you choose not to participate, let me know, so I can gage where we are in the process, etc.) For your information, I received a phone call last Sunday night from a friend in Henning, Minnesota. They learned about this situation and at their congregational meeting, our friend made a motion to become a mission partner with La Place and it was adopted with enthusiasm. So, as members of the same synodical body I’m inviting you, now, to take this step forward together.

Thanks, in advance, and I’ll look forward to hearing from you. Please let me know by April 1st at the latest.

Paul Blom, Bishop

Sunday School Teacher breakfast

On February 25th at 9:30 am I would like to meet with all teachers/persons who work with Akaloo. This is a chance for me to hear your comments and concerns about this program. Please come with your appetite and your opinion. It is important that we hear what you have to say before we make decisions about next years curriculum. We can also look over the sight together to discuss areas you may be having problems using.

CREW visit to TLU

This is for all Jr.s and Sr.s (who haven't chosen a college yet). We will be visiting TLU on April 21. This is a Saturday trip with a possible stay over in Austin. We will be home by lunch on Sunday at the latest. Cost will be $25 per kid for gas and food. This is a chance to see the campus, meet staff, and find out about financial aid and answer other questions you may have. Please let me know if you would like to go with me by emailing me at amber.walker@welcometohosanna.com

CREW Sunday, Jan 28th

We have someone new coming this Sunday night. Carey Jones is a new member at Hosanna, and wife of Angela and father of Bria, who will begin meeting with the CREW once/month for outdoor game night. Carey has a gift for athletics and will be sharing this with the CREW beginning this Sunday. Please come out to play and welcome him as a sponsor. Thank you Carey!

Order your spring CREW shirt

This is for all CREW members and anyone else who would like a CREW t-shirt. We will be ordering our spring T on Feb 28th. The cost is $11 per shirt. You have the option of hot pink or navy blue with 'CREW' printed on the front in white. For questions email me at amber.walker@welcometohosanna.com or place your order in the green sheet and make checks payabe to Hosanna Youth. Orders can not be made w/o payment. Thanks!

Natural Church Development

At our February 11 congregation meeting the council will present a strategy for church growth called, “Natural Church Development”. At the heart of NCD is releasing the potential that all churches have to grow. Instead of focusing on numerical growth, NCD leads congregations to concentrate on the quality of their ministries. In particular, the principle is that healthy churches grow.
NCD identifies 8 characteristics of healthy churches and provides an ongoing survey that evaluates the quality of these characteristics in the congregation. These results are then processed by the leadership and the leadership implements improvements. The result is an ongoing process of surveys and responses.
NCD reports that the average growth for congregations between the 1st and 3rd survey is 51%. For more information, go to the NCD website, http://www.ncd-international.org/public/essence.html
At the meeting we will presenting more information and have opportunity for questions. -Pastor Tart

Camp Lutherhill Registration

Don't forget to register your child for Lutherhill this summer. Confirmands will be going the week of Jun 17th. Alpha, youngins, and yearlins will be leaving on July 29th. You may register online or see Debbie Escovy for forms. If we pay by Feb 4th we will receive a $25 discount per youth. Each child will also receive a $75 subsidy from the church. This is a wonderful place where your child can make wonderful memories.

Ash Wednesday for Families & Children

Please join us in beginning the season of Lent on February 21st at 6:15 pm with our Ash Wednesday service for everyone, especially Families with younger children. This service is shorter in length and uses the children in primary roles through out the service. This is something that myself and Gay love preparing and hope you will find time to attend this year. It is a vital date in the church year and something families will find very meaningful to share with their children. Please contact Gay or Amber with questions and hope to see you that evening.

February Family Life News

CREW: Let's meet like we always do on Sunday, Feb. 4 at Denny's. I am not teaching, so I will be there! If you are going on the mission trip this summer you need to be here on Sat teh 3rd to prep for the buffalo wings, then be ready to work on Sunday to deliver them to the congregation. Big thanks to Tripp and Pam for their continued support on this fundraiser. Feb 16th Abby Brown, Laura Greer, Christine Carter, and Marquette Henderson will be working at the Sr. High Gathering. Please keep them in your prayers as they share their gifts with the youth of our synod.

Calling all youth! Would you like to be in an Easter play? If you can be hear on Easter Sunday morning and like to act, please see Amber about volunteering for this event. I am also looking for a couple of adults to lead this activity

Confirmation Class will meet with me on Feb 28 at 7 pm. We will have a game night, so bring your favorite game to share!

Thank you to everyone who helped make the past advent season so wonderful and such a success. Thanks to Jennifer Loof for the wonderful Christmas Eve bags for the kids. A special thanks to the kids who performed at The Family service on Christmas Eve. You guys were great!

Stewardship Thoughts for Lent

"My children, our love should not be just words and talk; it must be true love, which shows itself in action." (I John 3:18)

The church season of Lent begins on Ash Wednesday, February 21. Often people approach this season with thoughts of what they will “give up” for the 40 days of Lent. The November issue of the "Lutheran" magazine suggested another alternative. As an antidote to the powerful pull of consumerism, the author noted that she follows the practice of “giving away” something during each day of Lent. This might be a donation to a cause, giving a friend something they have admired, or searching for items which an organization like Northwest Assistance Ministries could put to good use. It sounds like a powerful way to put God's love for us into action.

“Crown Him the Lord of Love” Lenten Series,

Note that we are meeting on Wednesdays this year. Schedule is 6:45 soup supper, 7:00 worship

We will be reading from a chapter of 1 John each week. I invite you to read the chapter of the week before worship. I will be using selected verses for my preaching text. The preaching themes for each week are as follows:

February 21: “Perfect Love Casts out Fear”
February 28: John 1, “Walking in the light of forgiveness”
March 7: John 2, “Abiding in love for others”
March 14: John 3 “Living out of love”
March 21: John 4 “The God of Love”
March 28: John 5 “The boldness of Love”

Ash Wednesday Service, February 21 7:30pm

We will have our Service withe Imposition of Ashes on February 21. Communion will also be celebrated. The theme of our Lenten Journey is "Crown Him the Lord of Love: A study of 1 John" by Pastor Tart.

Thoughts that seem important by Pastor Tart

“Perfect love Casts out Fear” 1 John 4:18
Our Lenten journey that begins in February will center on this verse from 1 John. So much of our lives can be dominated by fear. We can be afraid of failure, afraid of being alone, afraid of suffering, afraid of dying, afraid of poverty and so forth. Many will advocate that faith and courage are the response to such fears. We are told that we should trust more and raise our heads in anticipation of God’s goodness.
For the writer of 1 John this is not his answer. Instead, for him the answer to fear is love. By loving the world, loving others and knowing that God and others love us, we can overcome our fears. If you know that you are loved, that others care for you and that your primary purpose is to love others, than those things that scares us can lose their power. We turn lives from being inward to lives that are pointed outward. For instance, if we are afraid of being alone in our lives and instead of falling into fear we fall into love, we will reach out to others in kindness and service. When we reach out to others in kindness and service our loneliness will subside. Love will cast out the fear.

Thus the question we have to answer everyday is, “Do we live in fear or do we live in love?” If we live in fear, we turn inward sometimes with painful consequences. If we live in love, we will find the joy of the lord.

I hope that you will make the Lenten journey with us as we explore this in more detail. Ash Wednesday is February 21.

Remember: Do you live in love or do you live in fear.

Souper Bowl of Caring

On February 4 the Confirmation will be out with their soup bowls collecting your loose change. Please donate any loose $ you would like to The Souper Bowl of Caring. The confirmation will donate all proceeds to charity. This is an annual event that churches all over Houston participate in and we are proud to be a part of. Thanks for your support!

Confirmation vs. Crew

Wed. Jan 31 The CREW will take on the Confirmation in a battle to the finish. Be at Lazer Rage at 7 pm to compete. Mike Black will lead the confirmation and Russ Walker will lead the CREW. Cost is $10 per person. Contact Amber for information.

IMPORTANT CREW meeting tonight

If you plan on attending the mission trip this summer I really need you to attend CREW tonght.
We only have 6 months to plan this trip and we need to start now. Please be here Sunday at 6 to find out your team and meet your leader. If you have not turned in your deposit for this trip you have until Jan 31. Call me if you have questions. Thanks