December 2024
Events
Cheer Me On!
Age Range: Children of all Ages Description: Sign up to have Ms. Shawna or Ms. Arlene come cheer you on at an upcoming game, concert, recital, or other special event! Fill out the form on our website, and maybe we will see you at an event this fall! So many of our kids are doing amazing things, and we want to cheer you on! Contact: Shawna Berg
Worship
Worship Times & Format Sunday 9:00 AM | Traditional Familiar hymns and liturgy bring a sense of tradition at this service. Our 9:00 AM service music uses a spirited approach with a wide variety of hymns, liturgical music, and anthems that often draw from many musical styles: classical, spirituals, gospel, jazz, and both historic and contemporary hymnody. At the 9:00 AM service, communion is celebrated on the first and third Sunday of the month. Sunday 10:30 AM | Contemporary We are…
Sunday School
Age Range: 3 years old–5th Grade Days/Times: Sunday mornings 9:00 and 10:30 AM, September–May Description: During Sunday School, our kids will learn more about the Bible and will learn to live out their faith in their daily life as they build relationships God, each other, and other caring adults. At 9:00 AM we will offer a traditional model, with large and small group time and at 10:30 AM our kids will begin in worship with families, and then will be…
Bible Study and Board Games
Days/Times: Sundays 7:00–8:30 PM, starting September 22 Description: Learn about different stories and parables of the Bible with other young adults. We also enjoy fellowship and play board games together to combat the anxiety of a new work week. Contact: Caleb Wragge
River Valley Alcoholics Anonymous Group
Alcoholics Anonymous is an international fellowship of men and women who have a drinking problem. It is nonprofessional, self-supporting, multiracial and apolitical. There are no age or education requirements. Membership is open to anyone who wants to do something about his or her drinking problem. Welcome to all who are in need. Contact: Pastor Peter Johnson
Basketball (16+)
Age Range: 16+ Time/Date: Tuesdays 6:00–7:15 PM Description: Join members and friends of St. Andrew for a friendly game of basketball and fellowship in the St. Andrew gym. Men and women are welcome. It is a great way to stay in shape, meet some new people, and bond over a shared interest in the sport. If interested, sign up on church website or contact Mark Domyahn so that he can be in touch with you. Contact: Mark Domyahn
Band of Brothers
Age Range: Mixed men Days/Times: Wednesdays, 6:30–7:30 AM Description: Join fellow Christian men each week to examine how faith affects our daily life and relationships. Participate weekly, when you can. Contact: Don Mussell
Early Risers Bible Study
Age Range: Adults Days/Times: Wednesdays 8:00–9:00 AM in Room 207 Description: Come for a lively discussion as we dive into the Word of God using books written by a variety of authors. These studies continue all year long and we often use bible study materials to help us in our conversation. Starting the first Wednesday of September, we will be reading and discussing the Gospel of John. Beginning the first Wednesday of October, we will be reading and discussing Pastor…
Session 1: Morning Confirmation Class
THIS IS A MORNING CLASS Confirmation students will participate in group learning, discussions, relationship building, and experiences that will help develop their faith. Confirmation is the learning opportunity for middle school students at St. Andrew Lutheran. The program is designed with the hope that students will learn more about the Bible, about who Jesus is, will deepen their faith, strengthen friendship, and will find their place in the church. The program begins in 6th grade and ends with the Affirmation…
Women of the Word—AM
Age Range: Adult women Days/Times: Wednesdays 9:30–11:30 AM, Sept. 11, 2024–May, 30, 2025. Description: A women’s Bible study of faith and fellowship. Each week includes large group lecture, small group discussion and weekly homework assignments. Each small group includes both in person and virtual options. For beginners through advanced! Study materials need to be purchased by each participant. Scholarships are available. Fall Study: Revelation—Eternal King, Everlasting Kingdom by Jen Wilkin. The book of Revelation was written in a fractious and…
Wednesday Night Dinners
Description: Newcomers, friends, and family are invited to our Wednesday Night Dinners. Make dinner easy and join us for a home-cooked meal as you come for fellowship, education, music practice, or just to visit. All are welcome. No reservations needed. Beginning September 18th throughout the Wednesday night program year, we offer a main course, fruit and salad, and dessert. Meals include a main course, fruit, salad and dessert. Cash, checks, credit cards, and Apple Pay accepted. In our salad bar you…
Session 2 or 3: Afternoon or Evening Confirmation Class
4:45-5:45 pm, & 7-8 pm THIS IS AN AFTERNOON OR EVENING CLASS Confirmation students will participate in group learning, discussions, relationship building, and experiences that will help develop their faith. Confirmation is the learning opportunity for middle school students at St. Andrew Lutheran. The program is designed with the hope that students will learn more about the Bible, about who Jesus is, will deepen their faith, strengthen friendship, and will find their place in the church. The program begins in…
Ring of Fire
All choirs run September – May. Age Range: 4th & 6th grade Description: Ring of Fire is a great opportunity for 4th-6th graders to learn the basics of handbell ringing, grow as a musician, and make new friends in a supportive atmosphere! We play in worship several times throughout the year. No prior experience ringing handbells is necessary; everyone is welcome! Join us Wednesday from 5:00-5:30 PM beginning September 18th through May. *6th graders can choose to participate in either Ring…
Shine
Age Range: K–5th Grade Days/Times: Wednesdays 5:30–6:00 PM, September–May Description: On Wednesday nights we build community by making friends, having fun, and sharing our joy together. We will play games, do crafts, and learn more about the Bible and each other! Registration is on the way! You can also register at the event! Contact: Shawna Berg
Grace Notes (Intro to Handbells)
Age Range: Adult Days/Times: Weds. from 5:45–6:25 PM, September–May Description: St. Andrew member Vicki Grant leads Intro to Handbells for beginning handbell ringers. No experience with handbells is required but attendees should be able to read music. Contact: Vicki Grant
Peace Ringers
Age Range: *6th–12th Grade Days/Times: Wednesdays from 5:45–6:25 PM, September–May Description: In Peace Ringers, we’ll focus on learning and refining our handbell technique and musicianship while having a great time together! We play in worship several times throughout the year, and we may do one performance out in the community through the year. No experience is necessary, everyone is welcome! Rehearsals start September 18th. *6th graders can choose to participate in either Ring of Fire or Peace Ringers. The confirmation…
Starlight Singers
Age Range: 3-year-olds–kindergarten Days/Times: Wednesdays from 6:00–6:30 PM, September–May Description: Starlight Singers welcomes the youngest children with a variety of activities. Children sing, dance, make music, and learn of Jesus’ love for them. Participate in worship approximately once per month, as well as additional Wiggle & Worship services. Parents are always invited to attend. Contact: Hannah Fleming
Sonshine Singers
Age Range: 1st–5th Grade Days/Times: Wednesdays from 6:00–6:30 PM, September–May Description: Sonshine Singers is an exciting and energetic children’s choir. Singers learn age-appropriate choral singing basics in a nurturing and fun environment. Kids will make new friends and have a blast with Jill Boyd. The choir sings during worship approximately once a month. Contact: Jill Boyd
Wednesday Evening Bible Study
Age range: Adults Days/Times: Wednesdays beginning October 2 Description: On the first Wednesday of October, a small group of learning and fellowship will delve into Pastor Matthew Fleming’s book The End Is the Beginning: Revelation, Hope, and the Love That Lit the Stars. Come for a lively discussion. No in-depth Bible Study experience is needed. All are welcome. The book is for sale at the Front Desk. Contact: Pastor Peter or Pastor Matthew
Spirit Singers
All choirs run September – May. Age Range: 6th–12th grade Days/Times: Wednesdays from 6:30–7:00 PM, September–May Description: The Spirit Singers sing approximately once a month in worship and for special services like Thanksgiving Eve and Christmas Eve. Spirit Singers is a great place to sing with friends, serve God, and to make music with a top-notch director. Occasionally, they combine with the Canticle Choir, Sonshine Singers, and Starlight Singers. Contact: Sarah Gilbertson
Bells of Joy
Age Range: Adult Days/Times: Weds. from 6:30–7:25 PM, September–May Description: This 5-octave handbell choir for adults meets weekly to rehearse and plays in worship about once a month. Bells of Joy is a small group opportunity for those who enjoy praising God through music. Ringing experience is helpful in this advanced bell choir. *Dates and times may be subject to change. Keep in touch with the Choir Director for up-to-date information. Contact: Tim Graf
Wednesday Night Youth Group (WNYG)
Age Range: 9th–12th Grade Days/Times: Wednesdays, 7:00–9:00 PM, beginning September 11 with a kick-off bonfire Description: Connect with other high school students from around the southwest metro at Wednesday Night Youth Group and monthly special events. On Wednesday nights the first couple of hours are dedicated to relaxing, do homework and eat snacks. Then we play awesome games, do meaningful service projects, and most importantly connect with God by learning about our Faith. Invite your friends because all are welcome…
Canticle Choir
Age Range: Adults Days/Times: Wednesdays from 7:30–8:45 PM, September–May Description: The Canticle Choir singers lead the congregation at two 9:00 AM Sunday services a month by singing the liturgy, special hymn arrangements, anthems, calls to worship, and the occasional major choral/orchestral compositions. *Dates are subject to change. Please keep in contact with the Choir Director for up-to-date information. Contact: Larry Bach
Pastor’s Book Study
Age Range: Adults Days/Times: Thursdays 9:00–10:00 AM (Except July–August) Description: Connecting with each other in meaningful conversation can make your day more meaningful. One dynamic and welcoming small group at St. Andrew is the Pastor’s Book Study. Alternating between St. Andrew pastors, share in conversation, learning, and community building. On the first Thursday of October, we will begin discussing Pastor Matthew Fleming’s book “The End Is the Beginning: Revelation, Hope, and the Love That Lit the Stars.” The book is…
Be Still and Know…Beginning Yoga & Devotion
Most Thursdays at 9:30 AM through May either in person(St. Andrew, Room 206) or on Zoom. Contact Carole to be placed on the email list to receive updates on dates and locations. This is an open group and welcomes new participants each week. Each session opens with scripture and closes with a devotion and prayer. No previous yoga experience necessary. Participants wear yoga type stretchy pants with a semi-fitted top that allows for movement and bring a yoga mat or beach towel. Classes are taught by…
Women of the Word—PM
Age Range: Adult women Days/Times: Thursdays 6:30–8:00 PM, September–May Description: Join us for a women’s Bible study of faith and fellowship using DVD, workbook lessons, and small group discussions. For beginners and advanced! All women are welcome, members and non-members. Our 13-week study on the book Jonah: Navigating a Life Interrupted by Priscilla Shirer will begin September 12th. Contact: Karen Willyard | (952) 937-2722
Parents Night Out
Age Range: Up to 5th Grade Days/Times: First Friday of the month, beginning November 1, 5:00–8:00 PM Description: Sign up for Parent’s Night Out! Our CYF Staff and Spirit in the Pines Counselors will partner together to provide a fun evening for your children, so you can enjoy an evening out! We will provide crafts, a pizza dinner, recreation time, and a snack each night. Cost is $20 for one child and $10 additional dollars for every additional child. Pre-registration…
Sat. AM Men’s Bible Study
Age Range: Adult men 40+ Days/Times: 9:00–11:00 AM each Saturday, new members welcome Description: The Saturday mornings men’s group is a lighthearted bunch from several churches in the Southwest Metro that enjoys Christian fellowship and learning. We have a particular liking to Andy Stanley and other contemporary Christian preachers. We use videos and Bible studies as conversation starters on living a Christian man’s life in today’s world. Join us anytime, you don’t need to wait until we start a new…
Pickleball
Age Range: 10 years old–adult Time/Date: Saturdays from 9:00–10:30 (beginners) & 10:30 AM–12:00 PM (advanced beginners-intermediate). October–May Description: Come join the fun! Like tennis, learn to play this growing-in-popularity sport. Curt, Tom, and Bob have years of experience in the sport. In this introductory session (or those with basic experience and want to tune your game), you will be taught the basics and get some hands-on practice. We have set up two pickleball courts in the gym at St. Andrew. What do you…
Monday Evening Men’s Group
Age Range: Adult men (husbands/fathers) Days/Times: 1st and 3rd Monday of the month, 6:00–7:30 PM, September–May Description: With so many places to go and things to do, it is often hard to take time for yourself. We want to gather men together to share experiences and wisdom about life and being a good dad, husband, and Christian. The group uses various faith-based resources to stimulate conversation and learning. We provide men with networking and relationship-building opportunities, giving one another a…
Suicide Bereavement Support Group
Every 1st Tuesday and 3rd Thursday. Age Range: 18 or older Location: St. Andrew Chapel Description: This support group aims to provide a safe, accepting and non-judgmental place for people struggling with the challenge of suicide loss. Leadership of this support group have experienced personal loss of their own and have received specialized training. Contact: Tammy Sperr and Cheryl Harjes
Loom Knitting Class and Gathering
Those with no loom knitting experience along with experienced loom knitters are invited to gather on the dates noted below for an easy-to-learn hat knitting class and connect with others from St. Andrew. Beginner knitters will be provided the loom, tools, yarn, and instructions to knit a hat that will be donated to charity. Beginners will complete the brim of a hat, and will knit the balance of the hat on their own at home. At the next gathering you will remove the hat from the…
A More Just World—Social Justice Group
Age Range: Adults Days/Times: First Wednesdays of each month at 6:30 PM Description: When it comes to matters of race in our community, St. Andrew is dedicated to helping create a more just world for all people through listening, learning, growing, and acting differently. Monthly meetings provide fellowship for people wanting to dedicate themselves to this process on an ongoing basis. Join us for conversation and learning opportunities. We discuss race and healing through the use of readings, videos and…
Parents Vs Goliath: Parents of Teens & Young Adults
Age Range: Parents of middle schoolers, high schoolers and young adults. Days/Times: 2nd Saturday of each month, 10:15-11:15 AM Description: In the story of David and Goliath, David was in a fight against Goliath, a giant man feared by many. David trusted in his own abilities to overcome this giant of a person. In our Group we are here to overcome the “Giants” of raising a teen. Whether it is connecting with your child, navigating social media, or just talking with…
Job Transition Support
Age Range: 18 or older Are you in one of the following situations: Just starting to look for your first job or been out of the work environment for awhile? Are your current search efforts not working out the way you hoped? Not pleased with your current job and not sure how to start a search process? One of our members, Rich Gruenhagen, is available to help provide direction and support. This includes how to find jobs that are not…
Untapping Faith
Location: TBD Description: Meet up with other young adults on the 2nd Tuesday of each month at a local brewery. We share conversation around the intersections of faith and our daily lives. N/A options are always available. Contact: Caleb Wragge
Queer Faith Alliance
Age Range: Teenagers and adults Days/Times: 2nd Wednesday of the month at 6:30 PM, September-May Description: Queer Faith Alliance is a small group learning together about how we as individuals, families, and the church can be fully welcoming and inclusive to the LBGTQ+ community. It is the responsibility of the Church to affirm all people and celebrate orientations and gender expressions that have often been targeted. When we work in community to feel God’s all-embracing love, we are stronger for…
Moms of Littles
Days/Times: Second Thurs. of the month, beginning October 10 Description: This is a group for moms of young children that meets monthly for support, encouragement and fellowship. This group will also host periodic activities for their families and children. Contact: Shawna Berg
St. Andrew’s Chariot of Fire Car Club
Age Range: Open to everyone: men, women, and children Days/Times: 3rd Saturdays of the month at 9:00 AM. Meet in the St. Andrew Fellowship Hall unless announced otherwise. Description: St. Andrew’s Chariot of Fire Car Club is meant to merge together interest in refurbished old cars and the faith we share. Join classic car enthusiast David Lerseth (a retired ELCA pastor) for monthly gatherings at St. Andrew to share about your car, the old dream car, the car you wish you…
Worship Young
Days/Times: 3rd Sunday of the month at 9:00 & 10:30 AM Description: This is an opportunity for children to be engaged in the worship service in leadership roles through reading, assisting with ushering or offering, and sharing in special music. There will be a children’s sermon and families will serve communion together! Contact: Shawna Berg
Patio Crawl
Ages: Adults Days/Times: 3rd Thursdays of the month, 6:30 PM Description: Looking for an easy way to connect with others from St. Andrew in a friendly and relaxed setting? In order for us to grow in our friendships and Christian faith, we are encouraged to engage with others from our church community. Join St. Andrew staff and other members and friends for casual conversation and easy discussion topics. No preparation is needed. Come as you are. Contact: Pastor Matthew Fleming
Suicide Bereavement Support Group
Every 1st Tuesday and 3rd Thursday. Age Range: 18 or older Location: St. Andrew Chapel Description: This support group aims to provide a safe, accepting and non-judgmental place for people struggling with the challenge of suicide loss. Leadership of this support group have experienced personal loss of their own and have received specialized training. Contact: Tammy Sperr and Cheryl Harjes
Camp Registration Opens
Description: The camp calendar, fees and other Summer 2025 information will be posted by November 1st on the camp webpage spiritinthepinescamp.org. Registrations are accepted all summer long providing space is still available. Scholarship requests are available for all of our camp and retreat programs. Contact: Sarah Blasing
Children’s Christmas Program
Age Range: All Sunday School children Days/Times: December 15, 9:00 AM Description: Don’t miss our Sunday School children and children’s music groups presenting a retelling of the Christmas story through song, narration, and pictures. Contact: Shawna Berg
Wiggle & Worship Christmas Eve
Age Range: All children Days/Time: December 24, 11:00 AM Description: Join us on Christmas Eve for a service designed especially for young children and families. This service is intentionally crafted for young children who may “wiggle” and move. It is interactive yet still shares the important message of Jesus’ birth! Contact: Shawna Berg