FIRST CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST a Christian congregation that tends to the spiritual growth of its members and reaches out to the community, the nation and world in Christian love.

The Greeting MAY 2015

V OLUME 84 NO. 4

Any Way You Say It, It’s Never Easy! Au revoir, Ciao, Sayonara, Auf wiedersehen, Farewell . . . any way you express it, saying goodbye to a church is quite a complicated issue. As Sunday, May 31st and my retirement comes closer (along with Rev. Laura’s simultaneous retirement from Crossroads United Campus Ministries) we both wish to do so gratefully, graciously, and hopefully. I thank God and I thank you for the wonderful relationships that have blossomed. I have been blessed by so much love from you! And in turn, I hope you have felt my love as I have done what I could to be present for you as pastor, teacher, and friend. In a relatively short time, we’ve traveled a long way together on this road of faith! I humbly believe the church and yours truly are better for it! Certainly some things could have been done better or differently on each of our parts--we’re all only human--and that’s why leaders from our NW Association will join us on Sunday, May 31, as a portion of the morning liturgy allows us to close out this covenant we’ve made with God and each other as pastor and people. But I know I leave a good congregation behind. You’ve made hard choices, but seem energized to face the future’s challenges, even as yes, we deal with transitions and the grief work involved in ‘goodbye’...or ‘so long for now,’ which is how I look at it. You have people in leadership positions who are good people, striving to help both you and the wider world experience ‘the cost and joy of discipleship.’ Appreciate them! Better yet, become one of them! No, I will neither meddle nor muddle in future plans, visions, or efforts of your next pastor(s) nor of the lay leadership of this congregation. And, after all, I’m retiring, not dying! So, this month I hope to make visits to our elderly and homebound and to be as fully present and engaged in all the other aspects of my pastoral ministry as I am able…I will be present at an accreditation visit for the Clinical Pastoral Education program at Gundersen, and then resign from the Professional Consultation Committee seat I have held there. I’ll wish people at AMOS and The Center (for LGBTQ Concerns) and other local organizations well. In the words of retired clergy colleague Rev. Don Iliff, I hope to be ‘delightfully irresponsible’ for at least a year or so. But after a time, you may see me in some minor roles around town. (Cont. next pg.)

Worship Opportunities in May Join Us!

The 8:30 worshiping congregation has been a ‘tight, but welcoming clan’ in the Chapel, but their Sundays are drawing to a close. Our Summer Worship Schedule begins with a single service at 9:30am on May 24; and with no 8:30 service on Children’s Sunday (May 17), our concluding 8:30 service will be held on May 10, until we resume two services in the fall.

Sunday, May 3

“Pastoring Not Pestering” Welcome New Members!

8:30 & 10:00am

(Communion by Intinction & WAFER Sunday) The scripture focus looks at two epistles, 1 John 4:7-21 and 1 Peter 5:2-5, as we consider what it really means to ‘love one another’ on a Sunday we welcome new members to our flock. Rev. Bill also reviews the role of a pastor to the people, which is lifted up in the Fifth Chapter of 1 Peter.

Sunday, May 10

“To Be and Abide in Love”

8:30 & 10:00am

Today’s Gospel reading is John 15:9-17 where Jesus again calls the disciples to abide in him, reminding us, as he reminded them, that we are to love one another as He has loved us. Jesus said, “No one has greater love than this, to lay down one’s life for one’s friends” (vs.12). What does that really mean, for us? This is a special Sunday, as the Bell Choir and the Sanctuary Choir finish out their regular program year!

Sunday, May 17

“Children’s Sunday”

10:00am only

Each of our classes of children share from their unique perspectives as we highlight what they’ve been involved with during the Church School Year and also take the opportunity to thank those who’ve been so engaged in helping them live, grow, and learn in the manner of Jesus, our Christ.

Sunday, May 24

“Improvisations at Pentecost” Jazz Sunday!

9:30am only

(Summer Worship Begins) Hey, note that we’ve moved to our earlier summertime worship and it’s Pentecost Sunday, so wear red and/or fiery colors as we celebrate the gift of the Holy Spirit to the followers of the Risen Christ! (Cont. next page)

Sunday, May 24 (Cont.) How delighted we are to again have Greg Balfany and his friends praise God with music that’s bound to get our toes tapping, even as we’re seated in the pews! With so much of jazz being a series of improvisations, Rev. Bill talks about the need for a “solid foundation” before improvisation in life can truly take place. That’s true, whether we’re talking music, friendship, or almost anything, including living a life in the Spirit! NOTE: A Special Congregational Meeting follows today's worship. More information is inside this issue of The Greeting.

Sunday, May 31

“Step Back To Jump Ahead”

9:30am only

Today, as the Reverends Bill and Laura Hoglund retire from their formal involvements in ministry with our congregation (and Crossroads United Campus Ministry, where Rev. Laura has served as Chaplain), we take time to “step back to jump ahead,” that delightful French phrase from the late Fr. Henri Nouwen. Representation from the NW Association of the Wisconsin Conference UCC will be present to lead a portion of the closing liturgy known as ‘ending an authorized ministry.’ After worship, stick around to wish the Hoglunds well and do join them for a piece of their Anniversary Cake as they also celebrate their 40th Wedding Anniversary today!

From the Pastor (Cont. from cover) There are great organizations here in which one can do good. And I’m told they even allow retired clergy to participate! The only committee responsibility I will maintain in this first year of retirement is with the NW Association’s Division on Church and Ministry, to which Rev. Laura has recently also been called as a member. I won’t speak for her, but I’m not ready to preach in any pulpits for a goodly while...oh, maybe someday, somewhere. My major goals in retirement are: more time with a grandson, more support for my ‘weaver’ wife, lower golf scores (I’ll use a pencil with an eraser!), lower numbers when I step on my scale, more Cub victories viewed and, hopefully, an occasional walleye to clean....oh, and I still hope my Bears beat your Packers. But yes, we’ll have to see about that, won’t we?! “The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.” Your pastor and friend,

Rev. Bill Hoglund

In Our Thoughts and Prayers . . . —Those grieving the loss of a loved one: Dave and Sue McBride (and family) at the loss of Dave’s mother, Margaret McBride, of Polk City, IA, who passed away at the age of 97 on Saturday, March 21st. Her funeral service was held at the Saylorville Church in Des Moines, IA, on Wednesday, March 25th. †

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Kathy (Loren) Anderson and Don (Dorie) Earley (and families) at the loss of their mother, Jacqueline “Jackie” L. Hanson, 79, who passed away at Gundersen Health System in La Crosse on Wednesday, April 1st. Her funeral service was held at Schumacher-Kish Funeral Home in Onalaska on Wednesday, April 8th.

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Mike and Karen Schultz (and family) at the loss of Mike’s mother, Audrey Schultz, 90, who passed away at Mayo Clinic-Franciscan Health Care in La Crosse on Tuesday, April 7th. Her memorial service will be held in Boulder Junction, WI, at a later date (TBA).

—Those who have been blessed with a new baby: †

Scott and Amanda Brouwer who welcomed a baby boy, Jonah Calvin, born in La Crosse on Wednesday, April 8th. The family resides in La Crosse.

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Jeff and Alissa Retzlaff who welcomed a baby boy, Owen Lee, born in La Crosse on Wednesday, April 8th. Owen is the grandson of Suellen Retzlaff. The family resides in Holmen, WI.

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Kevin and Jewel Aagaard who welcomed a baby boy, Calvin John, on Thursday, April 9th. The family resides in La Crosse.

—Those celebrating milestone birthdays in May: †

Gerald Soffa, who will celebrate his 82nd birthday on May 3rd.

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Bob Arthur, who will celebrate his 81st birthday on May 6th.

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Ruth Hayes, who will celebrate her 95th birthday on May 7th.

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Alvina Ford, who will celebrate her 97th birthday on May 11th.

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Duane Ring, Sr., who will celebrate his 85th birthday on May 27th.

If you or someone you know will be celebrating a milestone birthday (80 yrs. or older), please contact the church office and we will be happy to include it an upcoming issue of The Greeting. (Prayers cont. next page)

In Our Thoughts and Prayers (cont.) . . . —Those celebrating significant anniversaries in May: †

Merlin and Rusti Hoeth, who will celebrate their 56th Wedding Anniversary on May 16th.

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Dennis and Anne Mackeben who will celebrate their 50th Wedding Anniversary on May 22nd.

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Wayne and Susan Goeldner, who will celebrate their 50th Wedding Anniversary on May 29th.

If you have concerns or joys for which you’d like prayers, contact Pastor Bill or put a note in the Prayer Box on the stone shelf in the narthex. Rev. Hoglund will include them in the Sunday morning Pastoral Prayer—silently or publicly, as you wish.

The Church Office will be closed in observance of Memorial Day on Monday, May 25th.

Hear Ye! Hear Ye! Special Congregational Meeting on Sunday, May 24!!! We hope you will plan on sticking around after our 9:30am (summer schedule) worship on Jazz Sunday (5/24), as we have a special meeting to: (1) determine the constituency of the Pastoral Search Committee for the Senior Minister, (2) information to share regarding our Intentional Interim Minister and plans for summer services, and (3) a vote to take to support a new, tastefully appointed sign for the church at the corner of Losey Blvd. and Main St. – the existing sign has been tilting and sinking for years. Please plan on attending this brief meeting.

SAVE THE DATE: Sunday, June 21, 2015 Worship at Copeland Park with Picnic to follow!

It seems to me that the last several months have included nonstop activities and events here at Church. In addition to the holy celebrations of Christmas, Lent, Palm Sunday, Easter, and memoriCaring Corner al and funeral services; we have had many group activities, both religious and social, church sponby Audrey Kader sored and community events. Many of the activities include sharing the fellowship of food. Meals, ranging from simply soup to dinners, have been served; as well as taken out to families with new babies or illness. Perhaps it was following the “Mission Statement Workshop” on Sunday, combined with the need to write for this issue of The Greeting, that brought to mind the phrase “The family that prays together stays together,” quickly followed by another thought substituting “The family that plays together stays together.” As you read on, you will see many other opportunities for fellowship and sharing are planned for the next two months including welcoming 9+ new members on Sunday May 3.

It’s almost summer and time to mark your calendars for some fun activities: Our very popular Pontoon Rides will return on WEDNESDAY, JUNE 24 at 2PM and WEDNESDAY, JULY 22 at 10AM. These r ides last appr oximately two hours and we are so fortunate to have Church Member Mike Schultz as our Captain. Mike is wonderfully familiar with the wildlife on Lake Onalaska and is such a great Captain as well. The pontoon is provided by the North American Squirrel Association and fuel by Kwik Trip. We can only accommodate 12 passengers total, including space for up to 2 wheelchairs. I will arrange for transportation to and from the Landing, as needed. Thursday, July 2, the Minnesota Orchestra is performing a FREE Pops Concert outdoors as part of the Beethoven Festival. If ther e is sufficient interest, we could arrange for a bus or we could just carpool. This is a total family event. Another popular event, our “Senior Indoor Summer Picnic,” is not yet scheduled. Invitations with full details will be mailed shortly. Please contact Audrey for reservations for any (or all) of these outings (608784-8137 or [email protected]). I look forward to seeing you at these events or any of the others listed elsewhere in The Greeting. —Audrey

Healing Through Grief Group: Spring/Summer 2015 Series Mayo Clinic – Franciscan Healthcare Registration is not required to attend any or all sessions of this series offered alternating Mondays from 5:30-6:30pm in the Lang Conference Room, located in the Market Place cafeteria on the first floor of the hospital building. Each session includes an educational topic and a time to share with others also experiencing grief. For more information, call (608) 785-0940, ext. 22218. One-on-one free and confidential support is also available from a Franciscan Healthcare chaplain with specialized training in grief. May 4

Grief with Our Family and Friends

May 18

Tasks in Healthy Mourning

June 1

Coping Through Anniversaries and the Holidays

June 15

Differences Between Grieving and Depression

June 29

Grief and Wellness

July 13

Helping Children and Teens Cope with Grief

July 27

Creative Memory-Making Ideas

August 10

Praying Through Grief

August 24

From Surviving to Growing

19th Annual Mayoral Prayer Breakfast Thursday, May 7th

Join other members of the Coulee Region in Christian brother/sisterhood for this nonpolitical gathering held at the Radisson Center in La Crosse from 7:29-8:45am. Major General Donald P. Dunbar, Wisconsin’s Adjutant General, will be the guest speaker. He commands the Wisconsin National Guard and is responsible for Emergency Management. He also serves as Wisconsin’s Homeland Security Advisor, chairs the Homeland Security Council, and serves as the senior state official for cyber matters. Tickets can be purchased at Miller Quick Print, Leithold Music, or online at CRPrayer.org for $15/each or $150/table of ten.

Altar Flowers May 3 ~ The flowers are in loving memory of Dick Biering, given by Ruby and Family. May 10 ~ The flowers are given by Nancy Burgett in honor of her mother, Eleanor Proksch; and in loving memory of Lee’s mother, Violet Burgett. May 17 ~ Children’s Sunday – no flowers May 24 ~ The flowers are in loving memory of Rev. Donald Grunwald on the 10th anniversary of his death, given by his daughter, Maury Weiland.

May 31 ~ The flowers are in memory of Lovold family members, given by Florence’s children.

Six Sundays Still Vacant! Many Thanks to those of you who have signed up to donate altar flowers. Your thoughtfulness and generosity are greatly appreciated. The following dates are still available: July 26; August 23; and Nov. 1, 22 & 29. All bouquets are $35 and are payable to the church. You can sign up by contacting Sue Heuer at [email protected] or 526-9397, or Kristi in the church office.

To all the many wonderful Lenten Fair Volunteers, It is with extreme gratitude that we thank our many wonderful volunteers. The Lenten Fair was a huge success and it couldn't have been possible without you. Whether you donated cookies, eggs, worked a craft table or assisted with the many other duties, you are an irreplaceable resource. It is events like this that truly rejuvenate the family atmosphere of our church and show how we can, and do, all work wonderfully together. We noticed many smiles on both kids and adults alike, and you were part of creating that joy. Thanks again for all that you've done to help with our Lenten Fair. Each and every one of you are truly special…both in our eyes and God's eyes. Thanks a million times over, Bette Stiers and Kristi Koch

2015 Lenten Fair Highlights (Many thanks to Tom & Julie Larson for taking these wonderful photos!)

Many, many thanks to our Lenten Fair Coordinators – Kristi Koch and Bette Stiers. A fun time was had by ALL!!

Soup ‘n A Statement Recap With two delicious soups made by Maury Weiland, yummy bread and butter, chips and cookies, we were blessed to have 31 people present, along with some very well-behaved children as we met informally to discuss the possibility of updating our Mission Statement. Rev. Bill led the discussion and Bob Martin provided a document: Mission Statements from 50 congregations. We focused on short, memorable ideas, listing a VERB and a TARGET and then AN OUTCOME. After some very productive and cooperative discussion, two/thirds of those present (14 of 21) voted for the following: The Mission of our United Church of Christ: “Live by Faith, embody love, proclaim hope and justice.” The gathered group was also reminded of the phrase from 1 John 3:18 which is engraved at the front of our sanctuary: “...let us love, not in word or speech, but in truth and action.” It was hoped that this statement might go further, to be discussed at Church Council and possibly adopted as a new mission statement. The statement adopted in 2004 is too lengthy to be memorable. In case you, like many others have forgotten it, here it is: Leading people to God through Jesus Christ, the mission of First Congregational United Church of Christ is: †

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to provide worship and Christian Education for adults, youth, and children to develop a nurturing, supportive community for members and friends to nurture and expand the congregation through worship options to reach out to the community in Christian love to maintain a strong financial base to maintain a welcoming and accessible building

Rev. Bill’s handout reminded us of a statement he’d shared in an earlier sermon by Kevin Starr as quoted by Eric Hollweg in the Harvard Business Review, 10/22/10: “Most (mission statements) are awash in jargon and marble-mouthed pronouncements. Worse still, these gobbledygook statements are often forgotten, misremembered, or ignored…” Hopefully, our church will soon have a mission statement that is memorable and follows through with BHAG (a Big Hairy Audacious Goal).

New Exhibit in the Glass Display Case . . .

Mark Mattison’s Hand Made Ark! The Noah’s Ark concept and plans for building the ark and animals came to me from another hobby woodworker, Ron Garves, as we shared ideas for designing my retirement shop. He has made 25 arks for local children’s support organizations, young families, his own grandchildren, and family friends, and thought it might be time for someone else to pick up the task. He also shared with me the secret of the spiral saw blade that made the fine cuts possible. The plans were simple and unique, the end result pleasing and practical. My own grandchildren had a great time moving all the pieces around in imaginative play last Christmas. This is the first ark I made, crafted during the time my father, Norris Mattison, passed away. I couldn’t think of a better home for this ark than our church, donated in memory of my father, a navy aviator in WWII. He first read the story of Noah’s Ark to me as a very young boy during our family Bible chapter-a-day morning devotions before breakfast. I hope children of all ages enjoy the feel and fun of these smooth hardwood pieces of storied Biblical history. Be sure to see them on display in the glass case in the Community Room throughout the month of May! —Mark Mattison

Many Thanks to Marg Donner and Sis Hogue for combining their collections of egg cups and eggs for an “eggstra” special Easter display in April!

Do You Have Something to Display? We are currently looking for new displays to schedule for the months of September-December. If you have a hobby, collection, or special interest items or artifacts that you would like to share by displaying them in the glass case in the Community Room, or even a wall hanging exhibit for the Community Room walls, please contact the church office (784-8137). Thanks!

From the Ministry of Building and Grounds . . . Spring is for Renewal, and it continues to be evident throughout the church and wider community. Springtime continues to be a busy time for all church missions, no less for the B&G folks. To help ensure safe egress from the building should a power failure happen during a night event, we now have additional emergency lighting installed in key areas in the church building. This includes both choir loft stairwells and the stairwell leading down and out from the front of the sanctuary. Other areas having emergency lighting are: narthex ceiling, south stairwell from the narthex leading to the lower level, choir loft – illuminating the loft and sanctuary, community room, and each exit in the Preschool hallway. These are tested on a regular basis. The main floor kitchen’s dishwasher has a new automatic dispensing system for detergent and rinse additive. Church’s cost is only for chemicals used, through Dalco Janitorial Supplies. The system is highly automated. Please let Bob Raasch know if you any problems with the new technology.

The 2nd floor elevator alcove has been cleared to better serve folks with wheelchairs or walkers who wish/need access to the choir loft. The additional bells and tables for the Bell Choir are now located in the Acolyte/Brides room area. We are pleased with the enhanced cleanliness and appearance of our facility due to the contracted service provided by Rolan Covert’s 360clean. I am confident we’ll see additional improvements over time. Rolan’s firm also services the paper products and soap dispensers in the restrooms throughout the facility. Our building is 60 plus years old; so as in any vintage structure, ongoing maintenance, replacement of worn out items and TLC is required. A few items as follows are mentioned. We’ve had some water damage issues in the community room with water getting behind the wallpaper in a couple of areas. We believe this is due to exterior building issues with tuck-pointing failure or other deteriorating joints. We have repaired the interior, and some work has been done on the exterior. Ladies, if you notice damage in the women’s restroom ceiling, we believe we have found the culprit. The outside problem causing the damage will be or has been addressed by the time you read this. Actual inside repair and repainting will occur at a later date. (cont. next page)

A special note of appreciation to Mike Schultz, Laurie Gabrielson and Sue Suchy for helping with reorganization of space and cleaning out the custodian room, chancel sink room closet and other spaces. Also, to Ted Glotfelty and Doug Bilyeu for tackling some exterior tuck-pointing issues, cleaning out the roof drains and roof inspection, affixing the mirrors in the girl’s first floor restroom, and community room closet door closer repair. And, as always, to Mike Schultz for keeping our plumbing system in good working order.

Items for near future repair include fixing several of the inside door closers in the building which are not operating effectively, such as the small chapel swinging door, acolyte/brides room and several in the lower level. This project is underway to enhance energy use efficiency. As wasted energy causes our energy costs to rise, please help in this endeavor by closing doors to rooms when you leave. This includes stairwell doors and inside vestibule doors for all entrances/exits. The dollars we save have a positive effect on our budget. We continue to work on minor repairs as issues come up and time allows. We appreciate your help with building security by making sure the church’s main front outside doors close completely and are locked, especially when you have evening activities, such as mission’s meetings and such. You will also notice that church access during the week via front doors will be through the 2 west doors. If you need to use the auto assist door, please contact the office via the speaker system located on the west wall of the entrance. When Kristi is alone in the building, the doors will remain locked. Please use the speaker system if you need to enter. And from Bob’s soapbox, just to share with membership that we try to purchase from local suppliers and use services from hometown businesses when practical and cost effective. While not an inclusive list, some examples are: Schilling Paper Products, Glass Service Center, Ace Hardware of La Crosse, Quality Sign (Onalaska), Fowler & Hammer, S & S Mechanical, First Supply, A-1 Vacuum, Glotfelty Construction, Bob’s Lock and Safe, Reinhart Food Service, and McMichael Landscape and Curtis Printing to name a few. The Spring Cleanup Day will be this Saturday, May 2. Hope to have a report in June’s issue of The Greeting. As in last month’s message, please feel free to contact Kristi Wolf in the office, or Bob Raasch via cell phone (608-679-3833) for significant repair/ maintenance issues requiring attention.

—Bob Raasch, Chair

News from the Ministry of Missions Regarding our Nation and World . . . Warming Center Update The winter season has now ended. I want to thank all of you who have contributed in any way. I know you have gone the extra mile for those less fortunate. The Mission and Social Justice Ministry has agreed to commit to helping again next year. There is another way any member or friend can still help yet this season. The Warming Center is collecting any new or gently used camping equipment (i.e. tarps, tents, sleeping bags). Many who have used the shelter during the winter will be camping out during the summer and can use this equipment. Please drop off any contributions at the Church and we will see that they get to the Warming Center. Thanks!

First Congregational UCC Receives the Bell Ringer Award! We just received the Bell Ringer Award from the Salvation Army for completing ten or more Bell Ringing shifts last season. More importantly, the efforts of all enabled the Salvation Army to provide 90,000 meals; 20,000 nights in shelter; 14,000 sack lunches for kids; gifts to more than 500 families; first day of school outfits for 500 children; and several other program initiatives.

From the mission budget, the following agencies have been supported this Spring:    

Crossroad Campus Ministry → $600 AMOS → $600 Church Women United → $100 7 Rivers LGBTQ → $500

Join Us for FCC’s ReNEW Challenge - June 6th! The Ministry of Mission and Social Justice has identified housing issues as one of the main local concerns in our congregation. Therefore, they invite you to join your church family for a few hours on a Saturday morning to help our neighbors through Habitat for Humanity’s ReNEW La Crosse Neighborhoods (Revitalizing Neighborhood Empowerment With La Crosse Neighborhoods), a partnership of neighbors and local organizations working together to make the neighborhood a better place to live/work/play. ReNEW 2015 begins on May 2nd and goes through June 6th. A small army of volunteers will help spruce up properties in the Powell-Poage-Hamilton and Washburn Neighborhoods. Joining forces with neighborhood residents, they will to help improve La Crosse’s historic neighborhoods. Projects may include:    

Interior and exterior home repairs Yard clean-up and landscaping Painting and painting prep work Planting flowers, trimming shrubs AND MORE!

Let’s turn out together and show our community what First Congregational is about! We’d love as many of our church family as possible to turn out together for a morning of mission on Saturday, June 6! Where: South Side Neighborhood Center, 1300 S. 6th St., La Crosse 8:30 am – 9:00 am – Light Breakfast and Registration 9:00 am – 1:00 pm – Work on Assigned Projects 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm – Picnic Celebration at 1300 S. 6th St. 2:30 pm – 3:30 pm – Project Tour! A sign-up sheet will be in the narthex for June 6th soon, but please register in advance for other dates at www.renewlacrosse.org. For more information, see the poster on the tri-fold poster display in the narthex.

Strengthen the Church: Invest in the Vision Each day, visions and dreams are created in the hearts of many in the United Church of Christ. Through the Strengthen the Church offering, they can become a reality. As God calls our congregations to be “church” in new ways, your gift will plant new churches, awaken new ideas in existing churches, and develop spiritual life in our youth and young adults. Because of this offering, many more will hear the good news that “God is still speaking.”

On Sunday, June 7th, we will be receiving the Strengthen the Church special mission offering. Directed to local Conferences, Local Church Ministries and the Stillspeaking Ministry, Strengthen the Church gifts help visions become reality. Invest in the vision!

Please give generously to Strengthen the Church on Sunday, June 7th!

OGHS Update: Thanks to your generosity, $1,220.69 was collected for One Great Hour of Sharing on Palm Sunday.

One Great Hour of Sharing channels resources for international programs in health, education and agricultural development, emergency relief, refugee ministries, and both international and domestic disaster response, administered by Wider Church Ministries, Global Sharing of Resources. Thanks to your generous support, these vital ministries of life can continue.

AMOS Update First Congregational is a member congregation and supports the AMOS organization. Recent activities and news include: 1. Resignation of Rev. Curtis Miller, the former organizer (his farewell was hosted by our church and we received much appreciation for our hospitality at the event). 2. Search has begun for a new organizer. 3. FCC representative is Myron Daubert. 4. Seven members of our congregation will attend “Advocacy Day” at the Capitol in Madison related to social justice issues. 5. Advocacy and justice work of AMOS are carried out by the following Task Forces: Food Insecurity, Housing, Immigration, Environment, Health Care, and Restorative Justice; AMOS is always looking for volunteers to help support these community issues. Questions? Contact Myron at [email protected].

Save the Date for FCC’s BloodCenter Blood Drive! Tuesday, June 16th, 1-5pm Community Room at First Congregational UCC Homemade refreshments will be provided. To make an appointment in advance, contact Julie Larson at 608-769-2813 or [email protected].

May 3rd is WAFER Sunday! The first Sunday of every month is not only Communion Sunday, it’s WAFER Sunday! As we share in the body and blood of Christ, let us also share a nonperishable food item with the needy through WAFER. Most urgently needed items are: peanut butter , canned meat, tuna, soups & cr acker s, canned fruit, toiletries, pasta, macaroni & cheese, spaghetti sauce, “Helper” mixes, cereals (hot/cold). Please consider giving WAFER cash donations or writing a check made payable to “WAFER” in lieu of canned goods. A donation can is located in the food collection cart. In this way, WAFER will be able to purchase food they do not have in stock. Thank you!

Monday Meal Update A huge “thank you” to all our participants at our last Monday Meal on March 23rd! We had 2 couples who did double shifts, one individual who did a triple shift, and Nathan Janvrin’s 4-H group with parent helpers who provided desserts and helped with serving and cleanup (pictured below). We served 104 guests with 35 coming for seconds. Since the serving site has been moved to Trinity Lutheran on Avon Street, the demand is higher. That may be, in part, to Trinity’s additional offerings of a food pantry and clothes closet. Since we will want to provide more meals, there will be a need for more volunteers and more monetary donations. Please search your heart and see if you are willing and able to help.

Our Next Monday Meal is May 18th – Can You Help? Many thanks to those who have already signed-up to help with our church’s next “Monday Meal” at Trinity Lutheran Church, 1010 Sill St., La Crosse, on May 18th. Contributions are needed to purchase the food that is served; and volunteers are still needed to help with food preparation (2:15-4:00pm) and clean-up (5:30-6:45pm). Also needed are people to donate a cake or provide music from 3:30-5:00pm. If you can help, a volunteer sign-up sheet and cash contribution jar can be found in the narthex.

Did you know there are 1,700 families right here in La Crosse who visit WAFER on a weekly basis that are in need of food? Each month there are 5,000 people or more who are hungry and need assistance to feed their children and family members, right here in our neighborhoods. Please take a moment to share the bounty that we enjoy on a daily basis and help feed our neighbors. They need us now more than ever!

OPPORTUNITIES FOR ADULTS

Gardening with Perennials Saturday, May 9th, 10:00am

Now that spring has finally arrived, how do your gardens look? How well did your perennials survive? Have questions about what to plant where and how to care for your plants? Want to try something new? You are invited to join Charmaine Uphaus in the church Community Room at 10am on Saturday, May 9, as she shares a PowerPoint presentation on perennials that was prepared as a Master Gardener project. There will be a question and answer time for everyone to share their successes, problems, etc., and hopefully learn some simple tips and solutions. Anyone is welcome. Mark your calendars now!

Save the date for International Folk Dancing ~ May 16! Join us in the Community Room at 9:30am to learn Hasapikos, a folk dance that dates back to the Middle Ages. It involves some stomping! We will of course review the other nine in our repertoire. We enjoy the cultural diversity as well as many other aspects of folk dancing, and hope that others from the church will continue to join us in our dance circle. Bring a friend!

Questions? Contact: Barbara Strohm at 784-0906 or [email protected] or Joyce Arthur at 788-5632 or [email protected].

OPPORTUNITIES FOR WOMEN Women’s Journey: Upcoming Events! Trip to Hickory Wind Alpaca Farm Saturday, May 2nd, 9:30am

All women are invited to join us for a trip to Hickory Wind Farm-Alpacas and Fiber this Saturday at 9:30am. We will meet the Alpacas and Nadine Beezley will tell us all about the alpaca fiber industry. Their gift shop has yarn, their own handcrafted and Fair Trade gift items from Peru, alpaca socks, and other gift items. They have a deck for us to have coffee and treats, then Steve will lead us on some gentle hiking in the beautiful area they live in, just outside of Bangor. RSVP to Emma Ledbetter ([email protected] or 608-2695583) for directions and arranging carpooling from the church parking lot.

Mini Retreat Potluck & Party Neshonoc Lake Shelter & Fireside – West Salem, WI Friday, May 8th, 5-9:30pm Join us for fun, fellowship, and fireside frolics at Lake Neshonoc Park from 5-9:30pm. A potluck sign-up sheet is in the narthex or contact Maury at 608534-5010 or [email protected] with your ideas for games, activities, or what dish you would like to bring. To help cover the shelter rental fee, a donation of $2.50 is suggested. (If anyone can bring local firewood, plastic table cloths or paper products, please sign up for that or let Maury know). Don’t forget your lawn chairs if you want to get cozy by the fire! The shelter is one block south of the intersection of Hwy 108 in West Salem across from Linda’s Bakery. If anyone wants to carpool "Go for it!" meeting at church by 5:00pm. Come for the sunset over the lake, vespers, and fellowship! Feel free to bring a friend!

Bible Study Fellowship has opened a women’s satellite group at FCC on Thursdays at 6:45pm in the downstairs Youth Room and Lounge. Join us as we study and reflect on our all-powerful, redeeming God. Contact Sherry Sawle (608-406-1225) with questions.

Women’s Book Group Monday, June 1st, 1:00pm

Because of Memorial Day falling on our usual fourth Monday meeting date, our next meeting will be held on June 1st instead. However, we are still planning to read The Lost Sisterhood by Anne Fortier. From the author of the New York Times bestseller Juliet comes a mesmerizing novel about a young scholar who risks her reputation—and her life—on a thrilling journey to prove that the legendary warrior women known as the Amazons actually existed. Oxford lecturer Diana Morgan is an expert on Greek mythology. Her obsession with the Amazons started in childhood when her eccentric grandmother claimed to be one herself—before vanishing without a trace. Diana’s colleagues shake their heads at her Amazon fixation. But then a mysterious, well-financed foundation makes Diana an offer she cannot refuse. Read this intriguing book and then join the group for coffee and discussion in the church lounge at 1pm. Feel free to invite a friend! If you finish this month’s book and you would like to read ahead, here is a list of books the Women’s Book Group will read in the coming months: 

June 31st – A Sudden Light by Garth Stein

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July – W e Are W ater by Wally Lamb

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August – Anything by Charles Dickens

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September – The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah  October – The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins

CWU’s “May Friendship Day” will be held at Wesley United Methodist Church, 721 King Street, La Crosse, on Friday, May 1. This year ’s theme is “Our Journey of the Care Giver.” The celebration will begin with brunch at 9:30am (cost $5). Women of all faiths are invited! RSVP by calling Marlene Lake at 608-787-6177. A Least Coin Offering will be collected.

Book Sale Thanks! After the successful Used Book Sale (April 25-26), I would like to extend some “Above and Beyond” recognition and appreciation to a few folks, without whose help this could not have been possible:

Michelle Edge and her daughter, Maggie, for: spending their weekend at the sale, organizing the tables/books; selling cinnamon rolls and coffee; packing books; arranging tables and chairs post-sale; and clean-up. Julie Welch, for : helping with set-up; purchasing, baking, and selling cinnamon rolls; organizing the books; helping at the check-out table; packing up books; clean-up; and kitchen help on Sunday (and Julie is not a current member of Christian Ed or Library Committee!). Randy Breeser, for : coming in to help set up extr a tables; assisting with the sale; re-arranging tables and chairs post-sale; helping haul the big yard sign; and basically willing to help when his wife calls at any given moment! Bill Doering, for : cover ing the Bag Sale on Sunday; helping with packup; and offering to take the boxes of left-over books to the La Crosse Public Library himself. The Used Book Sale is sponsored by the Ministry of Christian Education and the Library Committee (a branch of CE), but any member of the church can be involved. All proceeds from the Used Book Sale go to our church’s Youth Mission Trips (high school and middle school). This year’s total was approximately $650.00, which is up from last year. Nice! “Thank you” to ALL who donated books and time, helping to make this annual fundraiser a success! ---Diane Breeser, Library Committee Chair

Share Your Gift of Music This Summer Do you sing? Play an instrument? Would you be willing to share your talent with the congregation? Children, youth, adults, soloists, small groups – we’re beginning to line up special music for the months of June, July and August. If you would like to sing or play, please sign up in the narthex or contact the church office (784-8137 or [email protected]) to reserve a date!

May 17th is Children’s Sunday! Children’s Sunday will be celebrated on May 17th. Our Sunday School classes will lead worship and share music, skits and presentations. We will honor our high school graduates and students will also serve as worship participants that day. We invite all members of the congregation to celebrate the children by attending this joyful service. The Sunday School teachers, helpers and music leaders are listed below. Please join us at this service in expressing our appreciation to them. After worship, we are having a potluck and playing games. Everyone is welcome!

2014-15 Sunday School Teachers Nursery Staff: Lisa Wetterlin Gretchen Janvrin Grace Olson Clare Simpson Emily Stoll Kindergarten/Grade 1 Nancy Burgett Kristin Hirschboeck Lori Jensen Grades 2 & 3 Stephanie Coorough Christie Eubanks Heather Rabe Helpers Kari Bersagel-Braley Kathie Gotz Jenny Schindler Lisa Scholl Karen Schultz Grades 4 & 5 Kathy Price

Substitutes for Grades 2-5 Marg Donner Molly Van Atta Maury Weiland Grades 6, 7 & 8 Curt Rees Anna Sanford Substitute for Grades 6-8 Rolan Covert OWL Facilitators Jerilyn Dinsmoor John Storlie Julie Welch Cherub Choir & Youth Bells Suellen Retzlaff Betty Cook Advent Workshop/ Lenten Fair Kristi Koch Bette Stiers

Christian Education Coordinators: Diane Stoffregen, Children’s Ministries And . . . Michelle Edge, Youth Ministries Note: Today is the last day of Sunday School.

FOR KIDS/YOUTH AND THEIR PARENTS Look What’s Up for the Birth through 5th Grade!

JOYFUL JUBILATION is ever ywher e, spr ing is here and that can only mean Children’s Sunday is near. May 17th to be exact. The Sunday School class rooms will be spending part of their time in Sunday School on skits for Children’s Sunday from now until May 17th. I am asking if parents could make sure their kids attend Church on a regular basis so they can develop the best skits ever. Jump in to Sunday School with a joyful heart and loving spirit.

On Children’s Sunday, we are going to have an old-fashioned Church Potluck Picnic! We will pr ovide the hotdogs and games and we are asking the congregation to bring the side dishes. If I can get a couple of people to bring a bean bag toss game, I was thinking of having a tournament. There will be games for the whole family. Let Diane Stoffregen know if you can help (784-8137).

Feel the Love of Being a Sunday School Teacher! We are looking for a few good teachers. The lesson plans are easy. No teaching experience is required. You will learn along with the kids. When I first started teaching Sunday School I did not know the Bible stories. The lesson plans are done for you. You just have to present the lesson. You do not have to know all the answers, nobody does. If someone really wants to know an answer to a question that you cannot answer, just tell them you will get back to them after you talk to the minister. Sometimes there are no answers, it is up to an individual’s interpretation. Listening to a child’s interpretation to a Bible story is always interesting. They will see things you never thought of before. We need teachers for Preschool-Kindergarten, 1st - 3rd grade, and Middle School. Please contact Diane Stoffregen at 784-8137 (w) or [email protected] if you are interested or with questions. Thanks!

Gr ace Of Dance This group is amazing, every Sunday it makes me realize why I love this job so much. We have great discussions and a very enthusiastic group of dancers. The schedule for G.O.D. is as follows: May 3rd ~ 11:15am meet for Pizza, dance and make T-shirts May 10th ~ 9:00am Lesson & Dance May 17th ~ 9:00am practice in Sanctuary, perform during Children’s Sunday

Kongo Kids Thanks to all of the families that have hosted Kongo Kid events during the year. We have had a blast bowling, sledding, painting pottery, concert at Myrick Park and wandering the paths of the Corn Maze. We have a great group of kids who are a blast to hang out with and an even greater group of parents.

For May 3:

Clay & Max Rauch

MIDDLE & HIGH SCHOOL NEWS Urban Immersion Presentation We shared our Urban Immersion weekend in Minneapolis with the congregation at the April 12 church service. If you missed the presentation, come and visit the students, Curt Rees and Michelle Edge in the CE Office to hear about our mission work and see some photos from our weekend together.

Middle School Sunday School Teachers Needed:

We need another teacher (or two) to lead the middle school class on Sunday mornings (10-11:15am) for the 2015-16 year. If you are interested, please talk with Michelle Edge ([email protected] or 784-8137).

Children’s Sunday on May 17 Children’s Sunday involves all the Sunday School classes. Please plan on being at church by 9:25am so that we can organize and do some final rehearsing. All the students will be leading and participating in worship on this day! After church, we are having a potluck and playing games. Let’s celebrate the end-of-the-year together!

OWL for Grades 7-8 OWL provides a trusting, fun, and nonthreatening environment where youth receive information, ask questions and understand how sexuality and relationships are connected to faith. The remaining class dates are: May 3 and May 10. We will recognize the 18 students at the 10am service on May 10. A big “Thank You” to Jerilyn Dinsmoor, John Storlie and Julie Welch for facilitating the OWL program this year.

Volunteer Opportunities for Middle/High School Youth: Sat., May 2: Sun., May 17: Mon., May 18: Sat., June 6:

Spring Church Yard Clean-up (8am-1pm) High School Worship Participation Help with Monday’s Meal Habitat for Humanity ReNEW Project

 Donate to WAFER (the first Sunday of each month)  Create an exhibit for the glass display case in the Community Room

High School Graduation Recognition on May 17 Thank you to Diane Breeser for creating a photo display of our graduating seniors. Come and check it out in the narthex. We will be honoring graduates at our May 17 worship service. Mark your calendars for this special date!

Christian Education Dinner and Discussion Review We had 37 people attend our dinner and Christian Education discussion on Friday, April 17. Thanks for all the yummy food, fellowship and input for our future Christian Education program. The Ministry of Christian Education is creating a job description for the CE Coordinator position that starts July 1, 2015. This staff person will coordinate the Christian Education activities and Sunday morning classes for children, birth to 18 years. If you were not able to attend, please talk with the Ministry of Christian Education, Sunday School teachers and/or CE Coordinators to offer your thoughts and visions for the future of this vital ministry.

A Successful Fundraiser! Used Book Sale with Cinnamon Rolls and Coffee Thank you to Diane Breeser and Julie Welch, the Library Committee and the Ministry of Christian Education, for sponsoring this fundraiser on April 25-26. We raised $650.00 for youth mission trips. Many thanks to the congregation for your donations and support!

KAYWOS Cloths Are Great for Spring Cleaning! The Youth at FCC are selling streak-free, spot free and lint free microfiber dust clothes. These washable and reusable cloths are only $3 each. You will never to have to buy cleaning supplies again, use ONLY water! They can be purchased from the church office during the week, or look for Michelle Edge on Sunday mornings. Talk with others who have used them and we’re sure you will want more than one! All proceeds go toward youth mission trips.

Volume 84 Number 4. The Greeting (USPS 229-560) published monthly by First Congregational United Church of Christ, 2503 Main Street, La Crosse, WI 54601. Periodicals postage paid at La Crosse, WI. Postmaster: Send address changes to The Greeting, 2503 Main St, La Crosse, WI 54601.

Spring Church Yard Work Day Saturday, May 2nd, 8:00am-1:00pm The Ministry of Building & Grounds needs your help with cleaning up the grounds after this long winter. If you can help for the morning or even a couple of hours, we would appreciate it. Bring a rake, shovel, pruners, garden shears, etc. We will have hot coffee and pastries. Any questions, call Le Sedlacek at 608-385-2595. The Ministry of B&G: Bob Arthur, Doug Bilyeu, Laurie Gabrielson, Ted Glotfelty, Barb Miller, Bob Raasch, Jim Schneider, Le Sedlacek, Jerry Snider, Laurie Strand

The Church Staff All the Members…………………..Minister s Rev. Bill Hoglund…………...Senior Minister Audrey Kader………………..Par ish Visitor Nancy Allen…………………Music Dir ector Kristi Wolf.............….............Office Manager Pamela Kendall..…...........Financial Secretary Diane Stoffregen………………Coor dinator , Children’s Ministries Michelle Edge………………..…Coordinator, Youth Ministries Office Phone: (608) 784-8137 Office Hours: 9am - 4pm, Monday-Thursday Office E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.firstcongolax.org

Enroll Now for the 2015/2016 School Year! Current openings in classes for 3-year-olds and the 4K program. Call the preschool office (608784-3640) for more information or to enroll.