FEBRUARY ADULT FORUMS ANNOUNCED – “Faith and Stories” is the theme for the Forums on February 11, 18, and 25. Andre Dubus’ short story “A Father’s Story” with Dr. Paula Carlson, Luther College President, as guest leader will begin the series on February 11. The story is available here: http://www.mbird.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/AndreDubus_AFathersStory.pdf

Some copies are available on the Narthex Table.  On February 18, member Richard Ylvisaker will lead the discussion of two biblical stories – Abraham and Isaac (Genesis 22:1-18) and The Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-32). Paula Carlson will return on February 25 to lead the discussion of “Christmas 1967”, a chapter in Oscar Hiljuelos’s novel Mr. Ives’ Christmas. Participants are encouraged to read the stories in advance of each session. Contact Richard Ylvisaker for additional information. 

Andre Jules Dubus II (August 11, 1936 – February 24, 1999) was an American short story writer, essayist, and autobiographer.

Annual Meeting, Sunday, February 4, 2018

Wednesday, January 31
7:30 a.m. – Men’s Breakfast
6:00 p.m. – Confirmation Class

Thursday, February 1
10:00 a.m. – Bible Study with Pastor Amy – Narthex
1:30 p.m. – Property and Management Committee
5:00 p.m. – Community Meal at First Lutheran

Friday, February 2
12 noon – Communications Subcommittee

Sunday, February 4 – Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
9:30 a.m. – Worship with Holy Communion – LIVE Broadcast
10:30 a.m. – Fellowship Hour
10:45 a.m. – Sunday School and Youth Forum
11:00 a.m. – Annual Meeting of the Congregation – Fellowship Hall

Adult Forum, January 28:  Mission Endowment Fund – Steve Holland and members of the Mission Endowment Fund Committee have spent the last year reexamining the Fund’s goals and processes and will present proposed changes to the Fund for the congregation’s approval at the annual meeting. Come hear a brief description of the proposed changes and join us in a discussion about the Fund’s role in the future of Good Shepherd.  Parents of college students, summer camp students, church wide youth assembly attendees, etc. are encouraged to learn about potential financial support and application deadlines. There will also be time for any further questions regarding the 2018 proposed budget and Child Abuse Prevention Program at the end of the forum time. 

Tuesday, January 23
12:15 p.m. & 5:15 p.m. – Epiphany Prayer Time
7:00 p.m. – C.L.A. Circle – Sharon Drew hosts

Wednesday, January 24
7:30 a.m. – Men’s Breakfast
11:00 a.m. – Communion at Eastern Star
5:45 p.m. – Handbell practice
6:00 p.m. – Confirmation Class
7:00 p.m. – Choir Rehearsal
8:00 p.m. – Band Rehearsal

Thursday, January 25
10:00 a.m. – Bible Study with Pastor Amy – Narthex
1:30 p.m. – CNA Graduation with reception to follow
6:30 p.m. – Stewardship Committee Meeting

Saturday, January 27
9:00 a.m. – WELCA Winter Brunch and Annual Meeting – Fellowship Hall

Sunday, January 28 – Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
8:45 a.m. – Choir Rehearsal
9:30 a.m. – Worship with Holy Communion – 11 am Broadcast
10:30 a.m. – Fellowship Hour
10:45 a.m. – Sunday School and Youth Forum visit area nursing homes
11:00 a.m. – Adult Forum in the Fellowship Hall: 2018 Annual Meeting