Just a reminder for tomorrow, Sunday, Dec. 29

• Worship at 10:00 AM

• No Sunday School or Bible Class

And, don't forget the New Year's Eve service on Tuesday at 7:00 PM!

Faith Winter Clothing Drive

Do you have winter clothes you don’t need? We can use your donations! Do you or your family need something? Perhaps we can help! Do you have any good condition kids’ or adults’ winter gear that you no longer need or that your family has outgrown, or do you or a family member need winter gear?
In the fellowship hall from now until December 23^rd there will be a Winter Clothing Exchange table where you can either donate winter coats, snow pants, snow suits, boots or other winter gear that you no longer need, or if you or your child needs a new coat or other item, you can trade up to a new size or get something you need for free. Nothing to trade? Help yourself to anything you need. If you know a family that needs winter gear, invite them to come and take a look.
Please use the basket for hats, gloves, scarves and mittens.

This is a great opportunity for our school and church families to help each other out, as well as assisting others in our community who have need.

Please leave any donations on the designated table in Faith’s fellowship hall. The table will be available until December 23^rd, when any leftover items will be donated to children’s and families’ charities in Anchorage. THANKS FOR BEING WILLING TO SHARE YOUR BLESSINGS WITH OTHERS!

To Help You Prepare for Sunday Worship

It's a simple fact that the more effort we put into worship, the more we get out of it.

One way to get more out of our Sunday worship time is to spend some time preparing for it before we head to church.  That often and easily gets overlooked in the rush of daily life, but here's something new to help you.

On our church home page at faithalaska.com, in the lower left corner, you'll see a box called "Anticipating Worship."  Click on "view more" and you'll see the basic information about what's coming up that Sunday.

I pray that this will be useful and a real blessing to many!

Pastor O.

Special Advent Devotions Now Available

Psalm 1 tells us that the person who meditates on God's Word "day and night" will be "blessed." Such a person produces "fruit," that is fruits of faith. Such a person does not "wither."  In other words, they endure when life gets hard, because they have that emotional and spiritual strength that the Holy Spirit grants through regular contact with the means of grace.

We have some special Advent devotions to help strengthen you and your family during these hectic days before Christmas. If you normally have daily family devotions, like at suppertime or bedtime, you can smoothly put these into your routine.  If you aren't in the habit, this would be a nice way to start--simple, easy and no pressure, just try it three times each week!

There's one devotion on each of the Scripture lessons that we heard on the First Sunday in Advent. Each also includes a question to use with very young children, one for slightly older children and one for older children and teens. 
 
Each week we will add more for the coming week.

God bless your time in his Word as you prepare for Christmas! Be sure to share these with your friends, relatives, acquaintances, and neighbors as well.

You can find these devotions at http://www.faithalaska.com/devotions.

A Welcoming Church

You can help us serve all who come to worship with us; all it takes is a smile and a handshake!
 
Now that the turkey feast is over, it is time to start looking towards the Christmas season.  The Outreach Committee is hard at work preparing for the season and Pastor O. has begun the bible study on witnessing and sharing faith with others. 

One first step in preparing for the season is to ensure that we have church greeters committed throughout the month of December.  By now many members have been a "Greeter" in the past and likely see the many benefits and blessings that can come through it.  For all those who have not been a greeter before, please consider the opportunities that are coming up to be a the first to share your joy with fellow friends and guests that come through the door!

If you are interested in greeting for any of the services in December, please contact Matt Klebs at mattklebs@klebsheating.com. 

Volunteers needed for Technology Committee

We are starting an Ad-Hoc Committee to help keep track of all of the technology equipment we are using in the Church and School (which seems like it is getting to be more and more every day). The intent is to inventory and evaluate all of the equipment used, provide recommendations for equipment upgrades and and help provide guidance on their use.

You don't have to be an expert join, but if you are maybe a little "tech savvy" or are at least willing to help and learn, we need your assistance.

Teens are welcome! (You probably know more about this stuff than we do:-)

If you are interested, please email, text or call me. 

In Christ,

Channing Lillo

x952-6213

channing.lillo@gmail.com

Preschool update from Miss Wendland

It's been almost officially 1 month since preschool started so it's time for an update.

The four children we started the year with adapted to the routine like experts. We have enjoyed getting to know one another and learn the daily routine of preschool. It's so cool to see all the toys that had been sitting in storage now getting played with every day. This month, the top two hits have been the kitchen area and the water table. There's not a day that goes by where children aren't playing in one of those areas. By far the best part of the day, and the most important is Bible time. It is such a privilege to be able to share Jesus with these children, some hearing about Him for the first time. Faith in a child is incredible to see and hear. I could tell a child was really thinking hard when she asked, "Is God married?" After telling her no she asked, "But I thought he had a Son..?"

Enrollment is still at four children, although some of the faces have changed. We now have all girls. There are still a few leads for more children, and we hope the promotional effort will continue as we look to do mailings, pass out preschool goodie bags at the Christmas tree lighting ceremony on November 29th, and hold an Open House mid February. I think our biggest promotional idea is WORD OF MOUTH! So please share information about our preschool with as many people as you can. If you would like brochures/business cards/fliers, please see me and I'd be happy to get you some.

The classroom space works efficiently and as far as the renovations go, there's nothing I wish we would have done differently. So thanks again to everyone who donated of their time, toys, talents, and treasures and to those who have prayed for this ministry.

And finally, because we are very close to needing more staff in the preschool, please give me a call or speak with me if you are interested in volunteering, submitting an application, or helping in that capacity.

Thank you for your continued prayers and support!
Miss Wendland

Nov 24, 2013 - Thanksgiving Worship & Pot Luck Meal

What an incredible God we have! What blessings he showers on us day in and day out! Please join us as we recall the many, many blessings from the hand of our gracious Father. Following our special 11 AM worship service on Sunday, November 24, please join us for our traditional Thanksgiving pot luck meal.

We would appreciate some extra help in setting up for this event on Sunday morning following Bible class. We'd appreciate help from anyone who is planning on going to our first service and could assist in setting up tables & chairs, along with table decorations during the second service.

For the meal on Sunday, please bring a main dish, side dish, and/or dessert. Finally, we would again appreciate helpers after the meal to pack decorations, clear and clean tables, stack chairs and tables, and wash dishes.

https://sites.google.com/site/faithakfellowship/thanksgiving

Faith's Ministry Calendars are Online

Church, School, and Preschool calendars are now all feeding to our website at

www.faithalaska.com/calendars. Church events are navy, school events are teal, and preschool events are pink. Controls are in the upper right of the calendar--print, view by week, month, or agenda (list), the drop down on the far right allows you to filter calendars as you choose.

 

 

Harvest Carnival

Greetings to all! Just a last minute reminder to come enjoy the Harvest Carnival on Friday evening, 10/25, from 6:00-8:30pm in the Fellowship Hall at Faith Lutheran Church! Dress as your favorite storybook or fairytale character, play some fun games, eat some yummy treats, and socialize with your fellow believers. :-) If any of you would like to donate bags of candy, caramel apples, big lollipops, big candybars, or baked goods, please feel free to drop them off at church anytime today or tomorrow...although preferably before 5:00pm tomorrow evening. Hope to see you all tomorrow! Have a lovely day! Mary Klebs

Oct 27, 2013 - WELS Alaska Reformation Worship Service & Pot Luck Meal

We have plenty of opportunities for you to participate in our Reformation festival.

Faith will host the WELS Alaska Reformation Worship Service, followed by a pot luck meal on Sunday, October 27, 2013. The worship service is scheduled for 4:30 PM followed by the meal. We would love helpers at 10:50 AM following Bible class to set up tables and seats, very quietly, of course. For the meal, local folks can bring hot foods while those traveling greater distances can bring salads, relishes, rolls, or desserts. Finally, we would again appreciate helpers after the meal to pack decorations, clear and clean tables, stack chairs and tables, and wash dishes.

PRESCHOOL CLASSROOM OPEN HOUSE

The renovations are done.  Final inspections are taking place this week.  Miss Wendland is getting her classroom set up, and Faith Lutheran Preschool will open its doors, Lord willing, on Monday, October 21.  Praise God for his goodness and for giving his people the will and the strength to bring the project to completion!

You are invited to come and take a look.  We're having an informal Open House this Sunday morning, October 13.  Miss Wendland will be on hand after each of our worship services to show you around, or you can just do your own walk-through.

If you have any questions about our preschool, please click on the tab on faithalaska.net, or call Miss Wendland (907-602-3800) or email her at preschool@faithalaska.com.

Getting close, but still a list of things to do!

There will be a Building Committee meeting on Tuesday, Sept. 24, at 5:30 PM.

Volunteer work will continue at 6:00 PM, as well as on Wednesday evening. 

Here's the remaining To Do list:

Install transitions between flooring (office, corridor, storage, etc)
Install flooring trim along walls
Cubby Installation
Countertop install
Door mounting & install - finish
Window trim board stain / paint
Top of pony wall trim board purchase and install / finish
Column trim boards purchase and install / finish
Door frame trim - purchase and install / finish
Sprinkler trim - Accel FP has been contacted.
Existing corridor lights, FA, and Signage install / finish & cleanup
Organization and finish of storage rooms - clean / hang shelves, etc
Office finish and cleanup - lights, FA, signage install
TP, Soap, & PT dispenser purchase
ADA Bath Mirror and Light - purchase and install
Remaining electrical & fire alarm trim & light install
Plumbing & ventilation trim install
Window coverings - measure, purchase, and install
Mount / install all bathroom accessories - grab bars, dispensers, etc

MOA Child Care Walk-through
Final inspections - TARGET DATE:  by 9/30!!

IF THE EMAIL MESSAGE IS GARBLED...

You've probably discovered this already, but click on the heading and it will take you to the entire post in readable form.  (Haven't figured out why it started showing the computer code when I enter a message for the blog.)

PRESCHOOL PROJECT WORK SCHEDULE

Monday - Wednesday, Sept. 9-11

Monday  6:00 PM      Painting Party at church

Tuesday 5:30 PM      Building Committee Meeting at church

               6:00 PM      Painting Party at church / Work on cubbies at Andy Zanto's 

Wednesday 6 PM      Flooring can begin.  Volunteers can work elsewhere to trim out the corridor and finish any painting in areas where flooring is not being installed.

Got fans?   We will need fans to get the paint fumes out of the space.  If any congregation members can drop some off so we can use them...box fans or whatever we can get our hands on to put in the windows to blow the fumes outside.  Put your name on them and we'll be sure to get them returned.

No Work at Church This Week...Here's What's Up

BULLETS FROM THE BUILDING COMMITTEE

••• Thanks to all the volunteers who finished the sheetrock and helped prepare the space for taping and texturing!  Great turnout!

••• Special thanks to Andy Zanto, Mike Hester, Tom Z, Bryan S, and Tony Ferguson for staying way too late Wednesday night to finish the sheetrock. Thanks, guys, for the extra effort!

••• Taping and texturing began Thursday and will continue into this week.

••• This week we will NOT have our normal Tuesday and Wednesday work nights at the church.  Please watch your email or check the eNews on faithalaska.com -- there may be some work off site (or perhaps later in the week).

••• Once taping and texturing is done, the next phase will be painting.  Watch for details on the scheduling of that.

  

••• Flooring can begin as soon as painting is complete.

A Message from the Culinary Coordinator

I want to say a big thank you to everyone who has helped with meals for the work nights!  It has been a huge blessing to the volunteer workers to be able to have a refueling meal!  We have two gracious volunteers to bring meals for this week's work nights and already a volunteer to provide a meal next Tuesday, 9/3/13.  Many thanks!! 

We will have to work around the mudding/taping/texturing schedule over the next two weeks, so there may be a few nights when we work offsite to cut, paint, and assemble cubbies instead of working in the preschool room.  I will update all volunteers bringing meals as to location and any other logistics that may be required.  Again, thanks to all for your service!   Mary Klebs

Thanks to Many . . . and an Invitation to Others!

From Pastor O.

I wish there were some way we could have kept track of how many people-hours have been invested in this project already; it would be a stunning total, for sure!  I am so impressed by all the folks who have given their time, their energy, their brains and ideas and talents and muscle-power to make this new ministry become a reality.  Quite a few have been burning the candle at both ends in selfless service to God and to this congregation.  I pray that our good Lord will give them further endurance as the work goes on.  I pray also that he will move more of our fellow believers to step up and help in any way possible, so that the burden of the work is spread out on more shoulders.

A personal note, from Building Committee Chairman Mike Klebs:  

"Our work night volunteer group has been diminishing in size.  I know our Lord sure does appreciate all the workers that have been helping over the last couple of weeks to complete the sheet rocking and framing tasks.  I can't express enough my appreciation for all of their efforts and showing up each Tuesday and Wednesday night - in some cases on other days too - to get this project as far as it is.  We have some work to do yet and I pray that we see some new faces (and the old ones too) that will see this project through to the end.

We are hoping to gain some momentum in the coming weeks.  We need your help on the work evenings.  In some cases, there may be small tasks that can be done before and after the work evenings during the day.  As a congregation we joined together to open a preschool to further our ministry by going and preaching the good news as our Lord commanded.  The building committee certainly hopes that you will take a little time to help with this project.  We are all serving him together."

Here's the latest:

1. We passed our framing inspection and the next inspection is for sheetrock.  The sheetrock work is going well and we will need to complete this prior to the next inspection.  We will be working on more sheetrock next week.

2. All other construction trades are complete with their concealed work.  The fire alarm system is being commissioned and put onto the new service.

3. The sewer repair is complete.  We have to work on repaving the area we dug up.  We were hoping to get the water service line stub into the building this year, however, with recent delays, this work may be deferred until spring. 

4. Soon - probably in a couple of weeks - the fence will be installed around the new preschool play area.  The well within the area will either be decommissioned or some type of bench will be installed over it to protect the children.

5. After the sheetrock is complete, we will hire a company to tape, mud, and texture.  After that is complete we will need as many volunteers as possible for painting and finishing.  We work Tuesday and Wednesday evenings from 6 until 9.  Dinner is served.  We are hoping to paint the week of the 9th through the 13th of September, maybe sooner.

6. Speaking of dinner - we do still need volunteers to furnish dinner for each of the work nights.  Plan for about a dozen volunteers.  Coordinate with Mary Klebs on which night(s) you can help.  (Next week Wednesday is covered; need someone for Tuesday evening.)

Sheetrock Progress Report

The sheetrock work got off to a good start this week.  If anyone is willing & able to put in some time this weekend, please contact Tony F. (or Mike K. or Andy Z.) about it.

Our next scheduled workday is Tuesday of next week.  The goal would be to finish any further ceiling sheetrock and a couple existing walls that need 1/2" sheetrock.  Framing inspection will then be called in Wednesday and we will sheetrock the final new walls and new ceiling soffits after that inspection.  We are a bit behind schedule, so a party willing to move this along over the next few days would be great.

There are also a couple of doors resting in the school hallway that need to be moved into the preschool room or out to the parking lot trailer before school begins on Tuesday the 20th.  We would also like to vacuum up the sheetrock dust on the floor in the corridor and install a secondary visqueen barrier at the doorway into the new preschool room from the corridor (as you enter from the school hallway).

There won't be a Building Committee meeting this coming Tuesday.  We'll plan instead to begin the sheetrock work around 5:30 PM.

No Sheetrock Work Tonight (Tuesday)

A quick heads-up for those who planned to come and help with the drywall this week -- we're waiting for some final electrical work to get done and inspected, so we can't get at the sheet-rocking this evening (Tuesday).  We hope to be able to do it tomorrow, Lord willing.

Almost Ready to Rock the Sheet Rock!

The latest, from Building Committee Chairman Mike Klebs:

•  Plumbing inspection and fire sprinkler inspection have been completed.

•  We're waiting on electrical re-inspection and duct inspection. These should pose no problems, Lord willing, so we're planning to sheet-rock the ceiling starting next Tuesday.

•  If there's enough help with the ceiling work on Tuesday and we get the framing inspection, we'll sheetrock the walls on Wednesday and be ready for tape and texture by the weekend.  (All of this assumes, of course, that there are no inspection setbacks.)

•  Excavation work is being arranged, but should start next week.

•  Bids on fencing of play area are expected soon, so that should be completed by the start of school (Aug. 20).

From Pastor O:
The good Lord has blessed this project with so many eager and able volunteers -- we give thanks to God and to them all!  I had Colleen drive me over to church on Tuesday so I could see how it's progressing, and I was thrilled to see the four boys digging around the well-head outside (good work, Noah, Bennett, Joshua and Andrew!), and just as thrilled to hear the sound of hammers, saws and nail-guns, wielded by at least a dozen men and women laborers.

It's exciting to see so many pitching in to make our preschool ministry a reality.  Above all, let's remember exactly why we're doing this -- it's to Let the Children Come -- come to learn about their Savior, Shepherd and Friend, Jesus!  It's to bring the saving truth of God's Word to more hearts and more homes.  Please keep praying for this great effort.

Finally, Mike also notes, as he extends special thanks to the many who showed up for work this week, that he is "continually amazed and thankful for the men and women who are dedicating many evenings to get the project completed." 

Amen to that!

To Celebrate Our Shared Faith in Jesus

In case you missed the announcement or need a reminder...

 

Sharing Faith Service -- Sunday, August 11        

 

Iglesia Luterana de Fe en Cristo -- that’s the Spanish-speaking arm of Faith -- cordially invites you to a bilingual “Sharing Faith Service” this coming Sunday at 12:30 PM.  

 

Your Spanish-speaking brothers and sisters would love to celebrate the faith that we share in two languages, yet in our one and only God and Savior.  Please join us!

Setbacks, Prayers and Work to Do

Our preschool remodel project is moving forward, thanks to the hard word and many hours put in by volunteers.  There have been some glitches, which is to be expected.

Building Committee Chairman Mike Klebs reports:

Status  The framing is scheduled for completion this week.  "Rough-in" defines work that is done before sheet-rock and finishes.  Sprinkler rough-in is complete and ready for MOA inspection.  Heating, ventilation, and exhaust duct rough work is complete and ready for inspection.  Plumbing rough-in is ongoing and should be in good shape by end of this week.  Electrical and fire alarm rough-in is ongoing.  We are hoping to have a partial rough-in electrical and fire alarm inspection for the ceiling by early next week so we can begin sheet rocking at our next scheduled work days.

Thank you & meals   I want to thank the many that have turned out for one or two workdays to help out as well as the weekly volunteers that have served since the project started.  Meals have been available, but we could use a bit more help with this (coordinate with Mary Klebs in advance).

Lots of hands needed soon  If inspections get completed as planned, we will have a sheet-rock party next week and/or the week after, and would like to mobilize as many workers as possible to work on this.  Bring your drill if you have one, if not, we'll have extra.

Setback  We had hoped to start exterior work next week, but the excavating company lined up to do the job has backed out.  The Building Committee is addressing options on how to proceed as we had planned to have this work completed prior to the start of school.  The work consists of repairing the sewer piping to the older portion of the building and also installing a section of the water line into the building and out through to the exterior and capping it for future connection at a later time.  We are hoping to avoid any further delays so if anyone has any contacts with excavation companies that might be able to help us out and get this work done before school starts, please let one of the building committee members know.  Alternatively, mobilizing a large contingent of members with shovels would work also.

Fence installation  Lastly, the fence for the play area needs to be installed.  The building committee needs some action on this, so if you are interested in helping to coordinate a contractor to do this work, please talk to someone on the building committee or Bryan Schneck.  It is important that we get this work done prior to the first day of school.

More thanks  We wish to thank the many that have volunteered their time, talents, materials, and company donations.  There are too many to list here right now, however we know who you are, and I hope to thank all of you more formally in the future.

Most of all  Please keep this project in your prayers so that we can complete it, open our preschool before October, and move on to the sprinkler upgrade project.

Time to Double Our Efforts

Latest Important News from Your Building Committee:

•  Two Work Nights Each Week  -- Tuesday and Wednesday from 6 to 9 pm

•  The  committee will have a short informal meeting before next Tuesday's workday.  That meeting will start at 5:30 and will cover any construction issues or outstanding design issues that need to be discussed.  Future meetings will be scheduled depending upon attendance next week.

•  Sheet rocking is coming up on the schedule, and we will need as many volunteers as we can starting the first week in August to accomplish this.  Don't need much technical expertise, just bring your screw guns, sheetrock cutting tools, and laborer skills.

•  Meals:  We're in need of volunteers to furnish meals on the work evenings.  They need to prepare for about a dozen workers.  The meal needs to be pre-cooked, or the volunteer is asked to show up and prepare/cook the meal.  Another way to assist with this would be to donate $$ so that a meal can be purchased.  For more information contact Mary Klebs (home: 727-2326).  Note:  We do not yet have a meal for either day next week.

Renovation Update: Lots of Opportunities to Help!

First, thank you to all those who have assisted with the work so far!  Thanks to you (and great work by the Building Committee), the project is proceeding as planned.  Praise our good Lord!

There will be a regular work party this evening (Wednesday), but here's a look ahead to some upcoming opportunities and needs:

This weekend:

• There will be a work party working on concrete this Saturday or Sunday.  Anyone who wants to help out is encouraged to contact Tony Ferguson (632-6239) for scheduling information (time and day).

Next Week:

• Next week's regular work evening is rescheduled for Thursday, July 18 rather than Wednesday (due to some scheduling conflicts with some of the folks).

• Anyone interested in framing a few walls up starting Monday?  Work can be done at any time.  Again, talk to Tony!   If you have the talent and time to do this, we can provide the necessary materials and direction.

Early August
 
• Lastly - by the 1st week in August we will have a real need for persons that can do the taping and drywall patching/mudding work that will be required.  Anyone with these kinds of skills is asked to please contact someone on the building committee in the next week or so.  Please consider helping in this very important way!   If we don't have the volunteers, we will have to hire a contractor to do this.

Work Night -- Wednesday, July 10

Here's what you could help with this week:

•  install new electrical wiring, fire alarm wiring, and any other wiring
•  backfill and compact around plumbing and pour the concrete back into place
•  any other plumbing or framing that can be done

All framing can be done after concrete pour and we'd like to get this framing done prior to the next workday on the 17th.  This way we can finish our electrical and plumbing rough, get inspections, and begin sheetrocking the following week (24th).

Sunday, July 7 -- Wear a sweater!

Now that the weather has cooled, please be aware that we have no heat source connected to the sanctuary, since all the ducting had to be removed and has not been replaced yet.

We'll do what we can to try to warm the building up a bit, but you might want to bring a sweater to church tomorrow!

Classroom Renovation -- Latest News

A couple of items from last night's Building Committee meeting

Volunteer opportunities:  we would love to find folks able to do or help with the following:
•  installing chain-link fencing
•  taping and mudding sheetrock
•  driving around and picking up materials & supplies
     (This could be done during the day; shopping lists will be provided by the committee.)

Goals:  The committee also discussed our goals, and decided that we want to
a) complete the renovation of the classroom by mid-August
b) be able to open Faith Lutheran Preschool soon after Labor Day

Please note:  There will be NO work night next week (Wednesday, July 3).

Project construction leader is Tony Ferguson; if you'd like to find out what you might be able to do to help, you can call him at 632-6239.

For other concerns or questions, please contact Andy Zanto at 887-4472.

Preschool Project Update

WORK NIGHTS --- JUNE 26 AND JULY 3

Regular work parties are Wednesday evenings from 6:00-9:00.  Some tasks may also be done on Saturdays by those who would rather work then. 

Meals for the volunteers will be provided by members (plan for about 12 people).  Melanie Ferguson will coordinate for June 26 & July 3.  To volunteer, contact her at 562-8815 or mckeever@ptialaska.net. 
Immediate needs:  Anyone with skills in sheet rock hanging, taping, and mudding; helpers for the plumbing, electrical wiring and duct install; anyone who can frame walls or work with concrete.

If you'd like to know how you can help, contact:

             PROJECT CONSTRUCTION LEADER:  Tony Ferguson  632-6239  (cell, voice only)

PROJECT UPDATE -- a tentative task list for 6/26 to 7/16

• Install underslab plumbing.
• Begin framing storage wall and any other new walls
• Need Building Permit from MOA and obtain MOA approval for underslab plumbing
• Backfill soils and compact
• Patch and finish concrete
• Install wall and ceiling plumbing piping
• Install wall and ceiling electrical and fire alarm 
• Install sprinkler rough-in
• Install new ventilation duct
• Cut concrete wall for relocated existing storage room door

Church closure starting Monday June 10

URGENT NOTICE!

Due to work the asbestos abatement work that's about to begin at church, there will be NO ACCESS to any part of our facility starting Monday morning, June 10.  The closure will last till the work is done, which could take up to ten days.

There will be NO worship this Monday evening (June 10).

On Sunday, June 16, we'll have our All-Church Worship & Picnic at 10:30 AM at Abbott Loop Community Park.  Please join us there and bring a friend!

There will be NO evening worship on Monday, June 17.

June 16, 2013 - All Church Worship & Potluck Picnic

What could be better than worshiping together, Christian fellowship, fabulous food, and some fun? Find out more...https://sites.google.com/site/faithakfellowship/picnic

New Communication Channel for our Preschool Ministry Progress

Interested in keeping up with the latest news on our new preschool? Visit http://ltccfaithak.blogspot.com/

Help Serve - Parking Lot Sale this Saturday

Members of Faith, just a quick note to let you know that all proceeds from the parking lot sale on Saturday, May 18th will be designated for our Pre-School so please take the time to either go through your gently used items and drop them off at Faith sometime this week and/or come and browse the sale for needed items. We would also like to ask anyone that is available for even 1 hour that day to please consider coming out to help as we have a state track meet and several of the parents that have helped in the past will be out of town for that so if you do not have kids in track or no other obligations we would really appreciate your time. We especially need people for set up.

Set up - 8 am to 10 am

Sale - 10 am to 4 pm

Clean up - 4 pm to 5 pm

Thank you for your prayers & help

Stacey Koenig

Opportunities to Serve at Faith Lutheran Preschool...

There are all kinds of ways you could help start Faith Lutheran Preschool with your time and energy!  If you'd like to . . .

• build custom "cubbies" for the classroom--talk to Miss Wendland
• donate a specific item needed for the classroom--see the Wish List bulletin board on the window side of the Fellowship Hall
• help clean (empty out) the room so that renovation work can begin--hang around for a little while (or show up) after the end-of-school picnic ends at noon on Thursday, May 23

Join us for Dance, Dance, Dance - May 18, 2013

Get your dancing shoes ready if you are high school age and older! We've booked a dance instructor for the evening, Saturday, May 18 from 5:45 to 8 PM. This event will feature recreational dance instruction for swing and ballroom dance styles and is suitable for all skill levels. The cost is $25 per couple in advance, $35 at the door. Bring your own partner and some hors d’oeuvres to share! This event will be held at Dance Plus Fitness Studio, 549 W International Airport Rd, #B8--near Guido's Pizza. Instruction begins promptly at 6 PM. Checks can be made payable to Faith Lutheran; Bill Scharf is collecting all fees. Space is limited!

Adopt-a-Road @ 11 AM Saturday

Another opportunity to serve, at 11 AM tomorrow... https://sites.google.com/site/faithakfellowship/springroadcleanup.

Outreach Update - 2013

Hello Everyone,

I wanted to take a moment and share some exciting news and plans coming from the Outreach committee.  Although it may seem like we have been quiet since Easter, there has been a lot of behind the scenes activity in the past few months to share.

First off, our efforts over the Christmas and Easter holidays has resulted in some interested guests and families attending our church over the past few months.  If you see an unfamiliar face, please make sure to introduce yourself and make them feel welcome.  The committee has been hard at work following up on these people with "Hot Chocolate" baskets and visits to their home.  The response to this has been very positive.

Secondly, I would like to list the upcoming events for 2013, as well as opportunities for you to participate with us.

PARKING LOT SALE MAY 18th: 
The outreach committee will be present at the Parking Lot Sale, making sure to hand out church brochures and answer any questions folks may have about our ministry.  If you plan to help at the parking lot sale, consider the opportunity for outreach during this time as well.

PRESCHOOL CONSTRUCTION HELP:
 The outreach committee has identified the work associated with the preschool as a great opportunity for future outreach and evangelism.  Therefore the committee has agreed to assist in that effort in any way we can.  We plan to help clean up or protect areas during the construction, provide meals and refreshments on work days, and lend a hand whenever possible.  If you would like to be a part of this project but are not good at swinging a hammer, consider helping the outreach committee with our behind the scenes support and assistance.

VBS JULY 29th thru August 1:
VBS is a great outreach opportunity for our church as young families bring their little ones to us for a week of learning about Jesus.  Last year we were able to follow up on several guests that came during that time.  We would like to do that again this year.  You can participate in this by helping to deliver cookies or other baskets to guests after the week.  This follow up is essential to thank families for attending and inviting them back for worship.  There is also opportunity for preschool and elementary school enrollment as well.

FRIENDSHIP SUNDAY Sept. 18th:
We are in the planning stages of hosting a friendship Sunday on September 18th.  This date is very strategic in that it is the first week of Sunday school, it is generally well attended from members after a long (or short) summer, and there will be two services to choose from.  We are planning to do a "Name Tag" Sunday as well so that everyone has a name tag and can engage in conversation with any guests that attend.  We will reach out to the VBS attendance, past guests that have not attended for a time, and will do an aggressive outreach into the community.  As you can see there is great opportunity for participation in this event, such as canvasing, greeting, inviting, helping with the service in some way, following up with guests, etc.  More to follow on this event in the near future

GREETING - EVERY SUNDAY:
The outreach committee is very happy and thankful for the volunteers who have helped great in the past.  If you have not had the opportunity to participate, please feel free to sign up.  Greeting is a very valuable opportunity for both fellowship and outreach.  There is nothing better than a smiling face at the door to brighten your worship!

Lastly, I wanted to take a moment and introduce your new Outreach Committee chairman - Jacob Mozolik.  Jake has proven to be a great leader on the committee and shows dedication and commitment to the ministries at faith.  I am excited to see the outreach committee develop and grow under his leadership.  I have had a great experience this past year serving on the outreach committee and am very thankful for all the support and encouragement that was given during my time.

As always, if you have any questions or want to know how you can get involved, please don't hesitate to contact me Jake, or one of the other outreach committee members.

Many Blessings,

Matt Klebs

Gathering Gifts Planning Meeting - Monday, 6 May 2013

These are exciting times at Faith Lutheran Church and School!  We are holding a Gathering Gifts Planning Meeting in the fellowship hall on Monday, 6 May, 2013, at  6:30 PM.  The mission of the committee that will be formed out of this meeting will be to promote the joyful and generous giving out of Christian Love in support of the installation of a fire sprinkler system in our church and school building. This investment in Faith Lutheran Church will enable us to continue the work of proclaiming God's Word and Saving Grace.

"Yours, O Lord, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the majesty and the splendor, for everything in heaven and earth is yours." 1 Chronicles 29:11 

Your Prayerful Consideration Is Needed

Thank you to all the members who came to the congregational meeting yesterday. There was some great discussion from all sides on where we are headed with our school ministry. In the end we had a unanimous vote to install a sprinkler system in our building and proceed with remodeling the lower level classroom into a preschool. We are extremely excited and confident that we can do this project!

This is a huge undertaking and will require the whole congregation to pitch in with your time, talents, and treasures. We will need volunteers to serve on a variety of committees, so prayerfully and seriously consider participating when you are asked to help or contribute.

Glory be to God!
 Courtesy of Channing Lillo via email

Spring Adopt-A-Road Clean Up - Saturday, May 11, 2013

Faith Lutheran Church has a section of Northern Lights Blvd. along Earthquake Park designated as our "Adopt-a-Road" section. We'll be meeting on Saturday, May 11at 11AM at the first turn-off for Earthquake Park (see the map below) to clean up our section. Please come and join us for an hour or so. The more hands we have, the less time it will take! Anyone who helps can swing by Faith afterwards for a pizza lunch and additional fellowship.

• Wear bright clothing (a few orange vests are available)
• Bring gloves
• Wear boots or work shoes
• Orange bags are provided

Children 10 years old and older may clean along the road, and those under 12 should be with a parent. There are parts along the park where supervised little ones can help out as well. Join us for this special event which helps our community.

Funeral Arrangements Set for Gilma Gonzalez

Our sister in Christ, Gilma Gonzalez, was called home to heaven this past week. Funeral arrangements have been made for Good Friday, March 29 and are listed below. All are welcome to attend.

• 11 AM Visitation
• 12 PM Funeral Service
• 1 PM Fellowship Meal

'“Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on.”
“Yes,” says the Spirit, “they will rest from their labor, for their deeds will follow them.”' Revelation 14:13

Courtesy of Pastor Ewings

March 31, 2013 - Easter Breakfast

We would love to have you join us for our annual Easter breakfast on Easter Sunday, March 31 between worship services (9:30 AM)!

If you'd like to help or bring something, sign up sheets are posted in the narthex at church. There are plenty of opportunities for you to make and/or bring food for the meal, as well as help set up and clean up. We will need some extra help setting up tables on Saturday, March 30 beginning at 1 PM.

Are You Ready for a Journey?

Get immersed in Holy Week like you never have before!
 Courtesy of Mr. Schneck

Planning for Our Preschool Continues...

• An Early Childhood Committee was formed recently. Members include Pastor Oldfield, Rachel Wendland, Chris Anton, Jeff Brooks, Deb Wockenfuss, Cara Ewings, Stephanie Lewis, Sheila Lillo, Tina Henry, and Deanna Schneck
• Meetings currently take place twice a month.
• Current action items include: determining a location for the preschool that complies with municipal requirements, designing the schedule and program of the preschool, and revising handbook, operating policies, and financial plan.
• The plan is still to aim for a Fall 2013 start; however, complying with all applicable requirements may delay when the preschool can start.
• How can you get involved? Committee members agreed that the preschool might benefit from a name other than “Faith Lutheran Preschool.” Please submit any suggestions to Miss Wendland or another committee member or vote here http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/VRQNTYB by the end of March.
• There is a wish list of preschool materials. Please see Miss Wendland for more details if you would like to contribute towards those items.
• Please continue to remember the development of the preschool in your prayers!

Courtesy of Miss Wendland via email

Hanging Hangers - Easter Edition

Hello Everyone,

In case you missed it today, the Outreach committee has organized another "Hanging Hangers" event for the Easter season.  We will be canvasing the same neighborhood that was canvassed during the Christmas holiday.  We will be inviting folks to both the Journey to the Cross event and the Easter Weekend services.  Here are the specifics:
When: Next Saturday, March 16th
Where: Meet at the Church at 10:30 AM
What: you will be given a "Team" to be on.  Just show up to church with appropriate clothes and we will take care of the rest.
OK, What's in it for me?:  Well aside from inviting others to hear of Gods Word, you will also get some much needed exercise (Hey, I'm just saying!), some fresh air, and some great fellowship!  Oh, and don't forget about the coffee and refreshments before, during, and after.

Can't argue with that!  How about the How:  It's easy!  Just follow this link
Hanging Hangers
This will take you to the Facebook event page.
Or you can email me at mattklebs@klebsheating.com

But wait, there's more!  We will follow this activity up with the adoption shower for the Thompson's.  So if you were going to attend that event, just show up a little early and participate in the canvasing.  Or if you were going to canvas, stick around for a bit and welcome the Thompson's new family.

Its a Win-Win!!!
Of course, if you have any questions, please let me know.
See you on Saturday!

Set your clocks AHEAD 1 hour

Don't experience the horror of arriving to church as everyone else is leaving! Set your clocks AHEAD 1 hour before going to bed tonight!

Courtesy of Pastor Oldfield via email

Exciting Activities Coming Soon!

We've got some exciting Fellowship activities coming up, so check them out and mark your calendar! Details are at https://sites.google.com/site/faithakfellowship/upcoming.

Reminder to Sunday School Parents...

All of the Sunday School children will be singing this Sunday, March 10th. They will be singing during both services - the end of the 8:15am service and the beginning of the 11:00am service. 

Courtesy of Sarah Salzwedel via Facebook

Warm Up to Faith

Let's celebrate the ceremonial start of the Iditarod while also representing our church in our community by handing out coffee and hand-warmers to passersby. This event is scheduled for Saturday, March 2, 9:00am-12:00pm at Goose Lake Park...click for more.

Adult Valentine Dinner

Upcoming Activities & Events

We're helping you plan your schedule by providing a long range listing of Fellowship activities! You can work all your vacations, dentist appointments, and grocery outings around these events!

This is a list of our POSSIBLE upcoming activities and events. This information is provided as a reference only. Dates, events, and times are subject to change. Once details are arranged, official notice will be posted on our Fellowship site, in our Faith Lutheran eNews, and in our church bulletins.

Your ideas for future activities and events are always welcome--send them to bnscharf10@gmail.com. We're always looking for more volunteers as well, so just let us know if you'd like to help with any of these items.

CLICK HERE FOR THE LIST OF ACTIVITIES
 

Billy Baack Tuition Assistance Fund

The Billy Baack Tuition Assistance Fund (BBTAF) is a needs-based program that helps provide a Christ-centered education to children who might not otherwise be able to attend Faith Lutheran School (FLS).  Through such generous donations, both large and small, the BBTAF has provided several thousand dollars in each of the last several years to assist qualified families with tuition.  Please support the teachers and students of FLS through your prayers.  For additional information about the BBTAF, please contact Jeff Bromaghin, chair of the Planned Giving Committee.

Courtesy of Jeff  Bromaghin via emai

Endowment Fund Repayment Drive

 Contributions to the Endowment Fund repayment drive have totaled nearly $13,000 of the $33,000 that was borrowed from the Fund. The Endowment Fund receives gifts from estates, memorial offerings, and similar donations that are invested to provide a perpetual source of income to support the ministries of our congregation. For additional information about the Fund or the repayment drive, please contact Jeff Bromaghin, chair of the Planned Giving Committee.

Courtesy of Jeff  Bromaghin via email

Ladies' Ash Wednesday Prayer Breakfast

Date:  Ash Wednesday, February 13, 2013
Time:  6:30 am
Place:  Sunrise Grill & Pancake House, banquet room, 8201 Old Seward Hwy (map)

For those of you ladies interested in joining us for this special Ash Wednesday event, please send an e-mail to Kathy at kmhester@gci.net (yes, please, even if you mentioned it before).  This venue is just north of Dimond on the East side.

For those who haven’t joined us before, we try to order no later than 6:45 am. Pastor leads us in a devotion, and we hope to be served around 7:15 am.  Normally, we are done with breakfast no later than 8 am. Please join us!

Courtesy of Kathy Hester via email.

Faith participates in Relay for Life

The Faith Lutheran ChurchTeam is signed-up for Relay For Life! Not sure what this HUGE, nationwide event is all about? Well, almost all of us have been touched by cancer in some way, so we've decided to make a difference by walking and raising money in the American Cancer Society Relay For Life event. Sign up, and at the event our team will camp out overnight and take turns walking around the track to raise money and awareness to help the American Cancer Society in the world’s largest fight for more birthdays. What a great way to let our lights shine for Jesus!

 

To view the Faith Lutheran Church Team page and sign-up, please visit:
http://main.acsevents.org/site/TR?fr_id=50440&pg=team&team_id=1322416

 

Don't forget to check in periodically with the blog and the Faith Lutheran Church Team page to find updates on what we are doing for Relay For Life!

 

Courtesy of Sarah Salzwedel via email.

You are Invited...

Please come help us plan church fellowship activities and events for the second half of the year. We could use your ideas and help in planning, organizing, and carrying out fellowship activities. We plan to meet on Thursday evening, January 31 at Bill & Nikki Scharf’s home beginning at 6:30 PM. Their address is 7110 Scalero Circle in Anchorage. Email if you have any questions—bnscharf10@gmail.com.

Pictures - Christmas Decoration Take Down & Luau

Thanks to all all the folks who came to help us take down the Christmas decorations. We had a great luau! Check out the pictures at https://plus.google.com/photos/103501521833387546781/albums/5832724325495679537.

Interactive Online Bible Study: "Who am I, and why am I here?"

God has wonderful things to say to us about who we are!  Pastor Thomas Kock will lead us on a five-Wednesday journey to better understand our status in Christ.  Join us!  Studies will be held Wednesdays - January 9 to February 6 - at 7:30 to 8:30 pm and 9:30 to 10:30 pm Eastern Time. 

 Go to www.wels.net and look under "Streams Media" for "Live Events."  You will need a high-speed internet connection.  (Videos of past studies are also archived there.)

Courtesy of Pastor Oldfield via email--pastoroldfield@faithalaska.com