INSIDE: Rachel Kurtz Concert • Changes in Worship Times • First Fest

Worship

Join us for worship!

Sunday, Sept. 10:

• 8am: live stream at 1stlu.org/live, and in-person. Nursery available.

• 10:30am: live stream at 1stlu.org/live, and in-person. Nursery available.

• 11:30am: First Fest! Current forecast for Sunday: cloudy and 68º, with a 24% chance of rain. If rain threatens, First Fest will move indoors.

Wednesday, Sept. 13:

• 6:15pm: live stream at 1stlu.org/live, and in-person. Nursery available.

Sugar Creek 5K

Registration for the 10th annual Sugar Creek Bible Camp 5K Trail Fun Run/Walk is open! Being held Saturday, Sept. 9, at 9am, at Sugar Creek Bible Camp, the course makes its way through each of the villages and prominent places on camp. Stick around after the run for the annual camp auction, the presentation of medals, and drawings for door prizes. Register at 1stlu.org/scbc5k.

Sugar Creek Fall Festival

Saturday, Sept. 9. Beginning at 9am: 5K Trail Run and Fun Walk (more info above). At 10am: craft fair, country store, silent auction, and BBQ pork lunch.

A Night with Rachel Kurtz

The Dinner Theater for First Fest has become… A Night with Rachel Kurtz! WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 9. This is a fundraiser for the kids going to the youth gathering.

5PM: Meet & Greet with Rachel Kurtz, and Meal: This is the fundraiser portion of the evening (ticket sales ended Sept. 5). Doors open at 5pm. This part of the evening includes:

• Meet and greet with Rachel Kurtz

• Meal

• 5 free tickets for door prizes

• Priority seating during concert

7PM: Concert!

• Doors open at 6:30pm

• Free and open to the public!

  • Concert

  • Freewill offering

  • Raffle for prizes (purchase tickets during event; pulled during concert)

Changes in Worship Times

With summer drawing to a close, worship times will be changing once again, and will be as follows…

• THIS Sunday, Sept. 10: First Fest Sunday, worship changes back to 8am & 10:30am.

15th Annual First Fest!

On Sunday, Sept. 10, we invite you to join us for worship at 8am or 10:30am, and after the second service, relax, catch up with friends, introduce yourself to visitors or members you’ve yet to meet, listen to great music, have lunch and have some fun! FREE and OPEN TO THE PUBLIC, so INVITE YOUR FRIENDS! If rain threatens, First Fest will move indoors.

Young Adults In Global Mission

Ceci Hook felt the call to Global Mission through her involvement at UWL Lutheran Campus Ministry and Common Ground.  She also felt the nudge at Sugar Creek Bible Camp. God opened the doors, and now she is going to Senegal in West Africa. YAGM asks that each young adult raise at least $5,000 for the year (the full cost is about $15,000).  Can you help??  It's a great opportunity to support a young adult and global mission at the same time. It just might be the cause you've been looking for.

• For more information about Ceci CLICK HERE

• For more information about YAGM in Senegal CLICK HERE

• To give online CLICK HERE

RING!

Are you open to trying something new? Join the fun—ring bells! We welcome widely varied musical backgrounds. No experience necessary! We’ll begin with the basics and learn to work together. Musical ability is a skill that can be taught. Do you want to be involved? The bells rehearse Tuesdays at 5pm in the choir room, starting Sept. 12. For more info, contact Jim Knutson at jim@firstlu.org. Ring ‘dem bells!

Confirmation Guides

You don’t need to know the Bible backwards & forwards & you don’t need a seminary degree. Just a heart for the youth of our church & an hour each week to spend with our confirmation youth. Parents, grandparents, godparents or any faith-mature adult is welcome to facilitate conversation and build relationships between our confirmands on Wednesday nights. Contact Pastor Stanton to nominate someone:  jason@firstlu.org/608.783.2236.

FLY Flight Crew

"FLY" is the name our kids have chosen for their "First Lutheran Youth" group. And FLY "Flight Crew" is the name our adults have chosen to describe how we plan to move forward with Faith Formation at First. Much like a sports, show choir or band booster club meets to dream about how to support our kids in their activities (and then shows up to actually support the activities) we want parents to do the same as we shape the faith formation of our kids. Meeting the second Wednesday of the month; NEXT: Sept. 13, 5:30pm. Food and child care provided. NOTE TO THE CREW: The Frogs Without Legs Can't Hear books are in, and we’ll use them as our educational resource and fodder for conversation each month regarding faith formation. Pick up yours in the office whenever you have a chance. Please read the forward, introduction and chapter 1. 

Sunshine Team

This month the Sunshine Team meets on Thursday, Sept. 14, 9:30am. Various jobs: cleaning, sweeping, mopping, vacuuming, washing windows and cleaning carpets. Help make First look nice! Refreshments are supplied to replenish your reserves! Dues are free! Questions? Contact Dan at dan@firstlu.org.

ELCA Youth Gathering: July 2024

• Where: New Orleans, LA

• When: July 16–20, 2024 (with departure and arrival dates being close to these dates)

• Who: Youth entering 9th–12th grade in the fall of 2024, plus 2024 graduates

Priority registration begins on Sept. 15! Interested youth and families should contact Pastor Stanton ASAP: jason@firstlu.org.

Response to U.S. Wildfires

Multiple wildfires broke out on the Hawaiian island of Maui. Exacerbated by strong winds, wildfires on Maui have claimed dozens of lives and have destroyed homes, businesses and lines of communication. Thousands of people were under evacuation orders, some moving to other Hawaiian islands. Wildfires have also affected the Big Island of Hawaii, and the islands remain vulnerable to more fires this season. Lutheran Disaster Response is coordinating with the Pacifica Synod and other partners to assess the needs of people impacted by the wildfires. We will work with them to provide for immediate needs and recovery amid the widespread destruction. Lutheran Disaster Response is committed to accompanying recovering communities in the years ahead. Gifts given to Lutheran Disaster Response equip us to respond to this, and other disasters, whenever and wherever they strike. Gifts given specifically to “U.S. Wildfires” will be restricted to, and used in full (100%) for those affected by wildfires. Donate now at ELCA.org/disaster.

Hurricane Relief

Hurricane Idalia, the first major hurricane to make landfall in the United States this year, brought life-threatening storm surge, flooding and winds to the Big Bend region of Florida, Georgia and the Carolinas. Idalia is just the latest disaster to impact our neighbors in the United States and around the world. Through Lutheran Disaster Response we are prepared to serve our neighbors impacted by Hurricane Idalia even as we continue to accompany partners in Maui after the wildfires and help those experiencing other disasters. We know that recovery often takes years, and through Lutheran Disaster Response we will be working with our partners for as long as needed. In moments such as this one, a gift to Lutheran Disaster Response provides crucial support where it’s needed most. CLICK HERE TO GIVE NOW. By standing with disaster survivors in the United States and around the world, we follow Christ's call to share hope and healing with our neighbors in need.

Entering Middle School Milestone

At First Lutheran we are committed to bringing the presence of God into the lives of children everywhere they go. This life milestone is for sixth-graders and their parents/guardians as they transition from elementary to middle school, and celebrates that each child is made in the image of God. We spend our time in four weeks talking about being created in the image of God, how God is in the midst of change and ways that we can feel connected with God through spiritual practices. Sunday, Sept. 17, 11:30am in the fellowship hall; lunch provided.

Grief Support Group

Carrying on after the death of a loved one can be difficult and lonely. Join with others who listen and care for each other. Every third Wednesday: 10am in the Upper Room. NEXT: Sept. 20. Led by Carla Stanton.

OWLs

On Wednesday, Sept. 20, at noon, the OWLs, a group for those 55+, will have their monthly potluck. For September, Brian and Mary are inviting all OWLs to their new home for great food and fellowship. Email Brian (owls@firstlu.org) for the address. Bring a dish to pass and be prepared to sit out on their deck, which has a beautiful view of the surrounding coulees. Our program will be several rousing games of Kubb; come to play or cheer on the players. So they have some idea how many to set up for, please email Brian at owls@firstlu.org or call 630.816.5917.

Cottage Meeting @ David Reay’s

As a part of stewardship for the upcoming year, the congregation is invited to a cottage meeting at David Reay’s to provide input toward 2024’s “Big Three Ideas.”

• What do you already love about First Lutheran?

• What are our greatest opportunities as a church?

• Where could we direct our generosity and energy in the future?

The leadership of First Lutheran want to hear your ideas about where God may be calling us in 2024 and beyond. Sign up here to reserve your spot at David Reay's, Thursday night, Sept 21. Come any time after 5:30. The meeting starts at 6:00 and will be done by 7:30. Babysitting will be provided at church from 5:30–8pm. First will provide some apps; you buy your own beverages. Join Pastor Stanton and other lay leaders for fellowship and conversation.

If Thursday doesn't work, we will have the same conversation at First Lutheran between services on Sunday, Sept. 24, in the narthex. Treats will be a bit more substantial, and no sign up is required. Just come ready to talk about your ideas!

Parents’ Night Out

Bring your children for an evening of fun with the middle and high school youth groups’ fundraiser! WHERE: at First Lutheran, NEXT: Friday, Sept. 22, FOR: Birth–12 are welcome (Birth–3 will be in the nursery, ages 4 and up in Fellowship Hall)

• Registration from 4:45pm-5:30pm

• Followed by dinner and activities till 8pm (parents can pick up early if needed)

COST: Monetary donations will assist the middle and high school students with 2023 Sugar Creek Bible Camp and potential mission trip. RSVP your child or sign up to volunteer at 1stlu.org/nightout, by Wednesday, Sept. 20.

Indian Boarding Schools: ELCA Truth-Seeking and Truth-Telling

• Class: Introduction to the Truth and Healing Movement, September 26 (7-8pm). This workshop will explore the truths we seek to learn and the healing we hope to experience, as well as how the movement began, among Indigenous people and within the ELCA. It will also explain the work the ELCA has done recently and how you can participate in this justice movement.

• Class: Indian 101, September 28 (7-9 pm). “Indian 101” explains some of these basics to build a foundation for students to stand in solidarity with Indian people across the United States as we work together to dismantle longstanding systems of oppression.

• Class: Indigenous Thought & Theology, October 26 (10 a.m. to 12 p.m.); November 30 (7-9 p.m.)

No pre-registration is required to participate in these classes. Just go to the Upcoming Events page, scroll to the class listing, and click "join the class" to attend. CLICK HERE to go to the Upcoming Events Page. For more info on the ELCA Truth-Seeking and Truth-Telling, CLICK HERE.

Sugar Creek Summer 2024 Vouchers

While summer 2024 may seem far away, we also want to highlight an opportunity for families to purchase a summer 2024 voucher for Sugar Creek. With a $100 deposit by Sept 30, families will have early access to enroll in their week and program of choice. In addition, they will be locked in at summer 2023's prices as Sugar Creek raises prices for the first time in over 6 years. Vouchers can be purchased by calling the camp office (608-734-3113) or by emailing office@sgrcreek.org. Vouchers are available to all families, and families can purchase multiple vouchers!

Calling All Bakers! Cookies for LuMin!

#CookiesOnCampus is back with LuMin Campus Ministries! Interim Pastor Paul Drees will continue the tradition of bringing hundreds of cookies to UW-La Crosse each week. Five hundred cookies are needed each week. (That’s about 42 dozen!) Our synod congregations have lovingly provided home-baked goodies so students can have a little taste of home. Find more information and sign up here, or contact Jen (admin@luminlax.org) to sign up!

Social Media Smarts

Now available on-demand, "Social Media Smarts" led by renowned thought leader Dr. Angela Gorrell,

Workshop guides you with:

• Ways to help kids live out their faith as they engage with technology

• Insight on where youth are spending their time online—and the associated challenges and opportunities

• A practical and hopeful guide to creating a healthy family rhythm around digital media

Register today for only $27 by CLICKING HERE to get instant access to this workshop and enjoy one year of use! Registration includes a downloadable guide and bonus spiritual practice for families.

Play Days @ Sugar Creek!

All are invited to First Lutheran Play Days @ Sugar Creek! There will be creek stomping, horseback rides, hiking, playing disc golf, campfires and time shared with others! Oct. 6, 7 and 8. If you’ve never been to Sugar Creek, this is your best chance! Come for one, two or no nights. You could just come for a day trip. And you don’t have to have kids in order to come. This is inter-generational time! First Lutheran is willing to cover 50% of the costs, so it will never be more affordable. There are cabins & rooms with AC and personal bathrooms as well as an area for RV/campers. Meals and the costs of counselors are included in the cost, too. Whether you are going for one night, both nights, just one day, just one meal, or even just for worship on Sunday the camp needs to know in order to plan appropriately and safely, so register at 1stlu.org/playdays.

Baptismal Preparation

The next baptism preparation session will be Saturday, Oct. 7, at 10am in the narthex for anyone who is considering or has scheduled a baptism. To register or ask questions call the church office at 608.783.3326 by Sunday, Oct. 1. Min. attendance required: 2 families. 

Coulee Region Hunger Walk

The Coulee Region Hunger Walk/Run/Bike is a nonprofit dedicated to raise funds, raise awareness and end hunger among our neighbors. This year's event will be Oct. 8, starting at 1:30pm at Myrick Park. Walk, run or bike with family and friends. If you prefer, you can participate virtually, just remember to register online. In fact, First plans to participate virtually at Sugar Creek during Play Days mentioned above! This is a fundraiser with 30% going to the Hunger Task Force, 30% to Wafer, and 40% to your preferred food nonprofit. You are encouraged to get sponsors, or form a team for some friendly competition. Register at couleeregionhungerwalk.org or in person the day of the event.

Monday Meal @ Trinity

For many years, Trinity Lutheran Church on the north side of La Crosse has hosted a meal on Monday nights. First Lutheran has agreed to help with this important community ministry, by preparing a meal, serving the food and cleaning up. We need people to plan and prepare the meal to feed 60-80 people, and folks to serve the meal (5-6pm) and help with cleanup. Meal prep can be done at your convenience. Many times people prepare the main course a week ahead, freeze it and reheat it. Food for the meal can be gotten at no charge from the Hunger Task Force in La Crosse. NEXT DATE: Oct. 16. You can sign up at 1stlu.org/next, or contact bridget@firstlu.org.

New-Member Social

By choosing to become a member, individuals and families commit to being part of a shared mission. People who would like to become members of First Lutheran are invited to a social at David Reay’s on Thursday, Oct. 19, 6pm, where you will get to know more about First and the staff in a relaxed atmosphere. To register your family or ask questions, call our church office at 608.783.2236 or email office@firstlu.org.

Sing Saints!

Do you like music? Do you enjoy singing, even if it’s in the shower? Do you appreciate the power of music in worship? Then put all of these things together and join the First Lutheran Senior Choir! The next event the choir will rehearse for is All Saints Sunday. Practice begins Wednesday, Oct. 25, at 7pm in the Sanctuary. All are welcome… there is no audition and no formal training required, just a desire to enhance worship through the beauty of music! And the time commitment is just for the one performance (not the entire year). Full schedule and sign-up at 1stlu.org/choir. If needed, child care will be made available (just indicate this need on the sign-up form). For more info contact Todd Saner at todd@firstlu.org.

Connecting with the Gospel of Mark

Are you looking for a connection between scripture and everyday life? Or maybe a way to dig deeper into the gospel of Mark? If so, join Pastor Libby for one or both of these opportunities: On Nov. 13 and 20, from 6–7pm, an overview of the gospel Matthew… and starting on Nov. 20 at 7pm, a year-long journey through the lectionary (our schedule of readings). Both will meet in the narthex. Cost of the yearlong class is $20 for the devotional study book we will use.

Make Worship Happen!

Worship assistants make worship happen! Usher, read, bake bread, serve communion, lead projection and more. To assist with Sunday worship sign up at 1stlu.org/assistSUN.

Sunday School

• Sunday, Sept. 10

  • 9:15am First Day of Sunday School. Register in advance at 1stlu.org/sunschool.

• Sunday, Sept. 17

  • 9:15am Sunday School

Questions about Sunday School? Visit 1stlu.org/sunschool.

Grade 3 Faith Alive Building Block: The Bible

Throughout the year each age group will have a special “Faith Building Block” session in which parents or special adults are asked to attend class with their child on Sundays at 9:15am (in Fellowship Hall), sharing in conversation and growing together in faith. Most sessions last for three weeks, and afterward, children will have a presence in worship in celebration of the Faith Building Block they learned about.

• Sunday, Sept. 17: parents/guardians only

• Sundays, Sept. 24 & Oct. 1: parents/guardians with children

• Sunday, Oct. 15: Faith Building Block lifted up in worship

Confirmation

• Wednesday, Sept. 13:

  • 5:30pm Dinner - Fellowship Hall

  • 7:00pm Gr 8–10 Small Groups

• Sunday, Sept. 17:

  • 9:15am Gr 6 & 7 Confirmation Classes - Fireside Rm

  • 11:30am Entering Middle School Milestone

Questions about Confirmation? Visit 1stlu.org/confirm.