The View from Left Field
Greetings OSLers! (That’s maybe not as catchy as Googlers, but I’ll keep working on it.) I am writing to provide an update on the Governance Conversion process and the work occurring in the inaugural OSL governing board. With three meetings already under our belt, we are quickly realizing the work we have ahead of us. We are blessed to have an energetic and devoted church staff along with committed lay volunteers who are adjusting to the new model while providing substance and feedback. Ministry Teams are being created and have been focused on the work that connects faith to everyday life.
As a reminder, the Governing Board for 2019 includes Pr. Randy Gehring, Dan Van Schepen, Alison Sahly, Anne Rieck-McFarland, Brian Sittig, Bruce Hasche, and Charlie Nesdahl.
The board began by nominating and approving committee roles for Finance, Stewardship Development, and Policy & Leadership Development. These groups will start meeting in early April to begin the support tasks necessary in each respective aspect, which will include advising and providing recommendations to the board. We are also focusing on training board members, committee members, and church staff to provide greater capabilities in working within the new model. Next steps involve creating policies, job descriptions, and financial reports that will reflect the new model of governing. This will help to clarify the roles and expectations of all segments of OSL’s ministry.
So what does this mean to you? First, listen and discern where God is calling you. There will be changes. Help will be needed in familiar and entirely new areas throughout our shared ministry. I urge you to act when you feel the tug. Second, the Governing Board will soon be inviting the congregation to participate in the process of “open questions.” This will be our way of engaging the full congregation to get feedback on the future vision of OSL. Please attend these sessions and share your perspective to clarify our work in Christ. Together we can continue furthering God’s mission for Our Savior’s.
—Dan Van Schepen
Volunteer Appreciation Sunday
Volunteers are appreciated all the time at Our Savior’s, but Volunteer Appreciation Sunday is the congregation’s big opportunity to really show it!
This year’s Volunteer Appreciation Sunday will be on April 28, from 9:30 to 11:00 a.m., in The Gathering Place. All OSL volunteers, in all ministry areas and activities, are invited to come sign the guest book, receive a pin, and enjoy a complimentary breakfast.
Thank you, volunteers, for sharing your time and talents throughout the year! Your dedication and service to the OSL community are appreciated by everyone!
Theology Tapped
Looking for engaging conversation on matters of faith and life in a fun, informal setting? Well, you’ll have to wait just a little longer—Pr. Randy will be gone at the usual Theology Tapped date in April, but look to join him again next month!
Photos by Michelle Anderson
Bells of Our Savior’s
Lent has been a busy season for OSL’s choirs, and the Bells of Our Savior’s is no exception! Tuesday evenings find the choir’s members hard at work, preparing to ring out a joyful noise during OSL’s worship services.
For more information about OSL’s choirs and other worship music opportunities, contact Gene LeVasseur, Director of Worship and Music, 336-2942, ext. 40, or glevasseur@oslchurch.com.
OSL Food Ministry
OSL Food Ministry serves breakfast on Sundays in The Gathering Place, starting at 9:30, and Wednesday dinner starting at 5:00. All are welcome! Thank you for contributing to the freewill offering to help cover expenses.
April Menus (subject to change)
Sunday Breakfasts
7 – Bacon, scrambled eggs, and roasted potatoes
14 – Egg bake (Palm Sunday)
21 – “Rejoice for Christ has Risen” (Easter Sunday: no breakfast)
28 – Breakfast pizza
Wednesday Suppers
3 – Soup and pie
10 – Soup and pie
17 – No meal (AGAPE Banquet)
24 – Taco bar