From the Pastor’s Desk …
Are you heaven-bound?
The American philosopher Dalles Willard authored a book in 1998 titled “The Divine Conspiracy.” In it he suggests:
“I am thoroughly convinced that God will let anyone into heaven who, in his considered opinion, can stand it.”
Can we stand it? The central message of Jesus’ earthly ministry was the Kingdom of God. God is busy among us building a society at odds with what the world offers. This kingdom – this new way of living – ushers in seeds of compassion, hope, love of our neighbor and care for God’s creation. It is counter-cultural as we turn the other cheek. We pray for our enemies. We know our money is to be shared. Our lives are an act of treating all with dignity. We pray for this kingdom.
But what if we don’t see value in this new-kingdom way of life? Since God’s kingdom will be fully experienced in heaven, if we don’t appreciate those attributes here, why would we be comfortable with them in an after-life? Thus Dalles Willard’s implied question: will we be able to stand heaven?
This month at St. James five young people will confirm their faith in this new kingdom (October 26th). We will offer our volunteer time when 20 committees/groups are represented at our Ministry Fair (October 12th). We will begin a four-week emphasis on recognizing our giftedness in Christ (October 12th – November 9th). All of it is kingdom-work and a taste of heaven that demands both joy and challenge. Unless, of course … we can’t stand it.
–Pastor David
Worship Area Updates …
Our thanks to Don and Doris Nielsen and Larry Larsen who have been working with the St. James Council to enhance sanctuary lighting and restore lighting fixtures with a sense of our 135 year architectural history in mind. Work on these lighting changes will begin October 6th.
St. James is In The City For Good …
Join us for all the events of our St. James Autumn Stewardship Emphasis. It was 135 years ago that we were planted in the center of the city. Now we employ our gifts, talents and resources faithfully for the common good. Thus our theme verse from Isaiah is “You will be called the City of Righteousness, the Faithful City.” Here is how we will recognize and share our gifts:
- Sunday, October 12th — Ministry Fair after worship. Over 20 of our ministries will be represented. Where will you volunteer?
- Sunday, October 19th — Allowing our giftedness to sing. Music Director John Cox will share “Twelve Songs that Changed the World.”
- Sunday, October 26th — Reformation and Confirmation Sunday. Our young people will share their faith as we continue to reform and grow.
- Sunday, November 2nd — Our All Saints celebration highlights the gifts of those who came before us. Luther Seminary President Robin Steinke is our guest from Minnesota.
- Sunday, November 9th — We bless our “Estimate of Giving” cards at the altar. That afternoon our musicians share their gifts with a Bach Cantata Vespers Service.
Confirmation Day — Reformation Sunday …
On Sunday, October 26th, five of our young people will complete their ten-month learning journey and affirm their baptism by confirming their faith. They have spent time monthly exploring the Bible, the Ten Commandments, the Apostles’ Creed, the sacraments and taking field trips to learn of others’ pattern of spirituality. On their special day we will hear faith statements in their own words. It will be a Reformation Day to remember. Congratulations to Emmett Deitrick, Eric McCargar and Meg, Blake and Mira Allan.
Luther Seminary President at St. James …
On Sunday, November 2nd, seminary president Dr. Robin Steinke will step into our St. James pulpit as we commemorate All Saints Sunday. Dr. Steinke has served as the leader of Luther Seminary in St. Paul, MN since 2014. St. James member David Rutlen presently serves on the Luther Seminary Board. After worship at 11:00am she will take your questions at an Open Space titled “Where Have All The Churches Gone.”
New Members — Sunday, November 23rd …
St. James will again welcome new members into our church family. On Sunday, November 23rd we will introduce them during worship and get to know them better at the reception that follows. If you also would like to make St. James your church home, please speak with Pastor David.
Your Daily Devotional …
St. James joins Lutheran Churches around the country in a shared daily devotional booklet. Copies of “Christ in Our Home” are available four times a year at St. James with the most recent issue spanning October – December. You will find them on the coffee hour tables for you to take home.
Your Vision Task Force …
At our July 135th anniversary event, the St. James Council called upon five members to review our St. James Mission Statement and provide suggestions for our future ministry. This group, led by Cathie Coffman, has been meeting at least once a month and hopes to present these suggestions at our January 2026 Annual Congregational Meeting. Our thanks to members Andrew Lyle, Leigh Nelson, Martin Mills and David Rutlen.
Visiting Those In Their Homes …
Did you know that thirteen St. James members are being visited monthly by our trained Visitation Team? In addition to Pastor David’s visits, the team members bring the church community to those who are home-bound or who would benefit from a church connection. Our thanks to our visitation team members Sue Hammond (coordinator), Scott Ellertson, Jane Pahlmeyer, Sue McBerry, Marsha Gulick and Mary Ellen Isensee.
