Poetry: Tiny Seed It Was Jesus Not Mine
Works Art of
Acts of Kindness
Faith Walk Leader-Telegram Magazine
Spring 2016
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According to Giving USA 2015, Americans gave an estimated $358.38 billion to charity in 2014. That’s the highest total in the 60 years since the report was first published. Americans give to charity for two main reasons: To support a cause or organization they care about, or to leave a legacy through their support.
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Here’s a quick review of a few charitable choices: Direct gifts are just that: contributions made directly to charitable organizations. Direct gifts may be deductible from income taxes depending on your individual situation. Charitable gift annuities are not related to annuities offered by insurance companies. Under this arrangement, the donor gives money, securities, or real estate, and in return, the charitable organization agrees to pay the donor a fixed income until death when the assets pass to the charitable organization.
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Pooled-income funds pool contributions from various donors into a fund, which is invested by the charitable organization. Income from the fund is distributed to the donors according to their share of the fund. Gifts in trust enable donors to contribute to a charity and leave assets to beneficiaries. Using a trust involves a complex set of tax rules and regulations. Before moving forward with a trust, consider working with a professional who is familiar with the rules and regulations. Donor-advised funds are funds administered by a charity to which a donor can make irrevocable contributions. This gift may have tax considerations, which is another benefit. Chris Hasenberg can help you assess which approach may work best for you.
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Article provided by Chris Hasenberg of Investment Management Associates, Inc., Wealth Advisor, Series 7 Securities Registered, Series 66 Registered Investment Advisor, Licensed Insurance Agent.
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Remember, the information in this article is not intended as tax or legal advice. And it may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation.
When submitting an article please note the following: Length of article: 510 words or less, including biographical information. Contact editor Christena O’Brien in advance if you wish to write a longer article. The editor reserves the right to choose, edit and shorten articles. Articles will be published based on space availability and editorial content criteria.
contact us
W
e welcome your stories, songs and poems about faith and how it has affected your life or the life of someone you know. Please send us your articles any time of the year.
Christena O’Brien Faith Walk Editor 715.830.5838
christena.obrien@ecpc.com
Angela Rediess Graphic Designer Kathy Hayden Advertising Sales Director 715.833.7420 kathy.hayden@ecpc.com
Catie Carlson-Prueher Magazine Coordinator 715.830.5823 catie.carlson@ecpc.com
Published by the LeaderTelegram Advertising Department. P.O. Box 570. Eau Claire, WI 54702-0570. Copyright 2016 Eau Claire Press Company. All rights reserved.
Photos: If you have a photo or graphic that helps illustrate your work, feel free to include it. Artwork will only be printed if it meets the technical requirements for graphic publication. To submit: Email to christena.obrien@ ecpc.com or mail to Leader-Telegram, Attn.: Christena O’Brien, 701 S. Farwell St., Eau Claire, WI 54701.
Faith Walk
Information and opinions in the articles of this magazine are those of the authors and are not necessarily objective reports. Available online at www.leadertelegram.com
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Celebrate Easter withUs Christ Church Cathedral Palm Sunday Saturday, March 19 Sunday, March 20 1120 Cedar Street, Eau Claire From West Clairemont East on Vine St. then north on 12th St. (715) 834-2959
Maundy Thursday March 24
, Worship Palm Sunday 8:30 & 10:30 a.m. w Maundy Thursday
Good Friday March 25
6:30 p.m. Last Supper Portrayal
Good Friday
Holy Saturday March 26
6:30 p.m. “Seven Last Words”
Easter Worship 8:30 & 10:30 a.m.
Easter Day March 27
Easter Breakfast 7:30-10:00 a.m.
Vigil Mass with Distribution of Palms Traditional Mass with Distribution of Palms Liturgy and Procession of the Palms Mass with the Reading of the Passion
5:00 p.m. 8:00 a.m. 10:00 a.m.
Mass with Footwashing and Stripping of the Altar, followed by Night Watch at Altar of Repose
7:00 p.m.
Stations of the Cross with Meditations Solemn Liturgy of Good Easter
12:15 p.m. 7:00 p.m.
Holy Saturday Liturgy Great Vigil and First Mass of Easter
9:00 a.m. 8:00 p.m.
Traditional Mass with Hymns Solemn Choral Mass with Procession
8:00 a.m. 10:00 a.m.
800704 3-19-16
800669 3-19-16
Holy Week
Chapel Heights United Methodist Church 300 E. Hamilton Avenue • Eau Claire, WI
9:00 and 10:45AM
Palm Sunday Service — March 20
10:00 a.m. Palm/Passion Sunday Worship Children’s Palm Branch Parade + “Prayer Pretzels” for everyone!
Communion at both services
Maundy Thursday Service @ CHAPEL HEIGHTS UMC March 24 — 12:00 p.m. Good Friday Service @ ALTOONA UMC 428 First Street W – Altoona UMC March 25 — 7:00 p.m.
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Saturday, March 26
Children’s Easter Egg Hunt at Chapel Heights UMC 10:30 a.m. – noon Easter Egg Hunt / Craft / Lunch Family & Friends are invited!
Easter Sunday — March 27
6:30 a.m. Sunrise Service 7:30 a.m. Easter Breakfast until 9:45 a.m. 800925 3-19-16 Christ has Risen! 10:00 a.m. Easter Worship
To have your church included please call Leader-Telegram Advertising Consultant, Edie Litzkow 715-833-9239. Leader-Telegram
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Celebrate Easter withUs Our Redeemer (LCMS)
Holy Week at Hope Lutheran Church
Our Holy Week service schedule is: Maundy Thursday: 7:00 PM Chancel drama Good Friday: 12:00 PM Reproaches service 7:00 PM Tenebrae service Easter Sunday: 6:30 AM Sunrise service 8:30 AM Traditional service 10:35 AM Contemporary service www.churchoffice@orlcms.net
Maundy Thursday - 6:15 pm We gather for the Lord’s Supper. Good Friday - 1:00 & 6:15 pm Hear the story of Jesus as we follow Him to the cross.
Easter Morning - 7:00, 8:30 & 10:30
Festival Worship: We celebrate this new creation with joyful song and we gather for Holy Communion. Easter breakfast will be served from 7:30 to 10:00 am.
Hope Lutheran Church
2226 Eddy Lane, 832-1414 • www.hopechurchec.com
800804 3-19-16
Corner of Birch and Fall Streets (715) 835-5239
800815 3-19-16
Good Friday Services—1:30 & 7 PM Holy Easter Day—7 & 10 AM Easter Breakfast Served from 8 AM
Holy Week and Easter Worship Maundy Thursday, March 24 7:00 p.m. Communion and Tenebrae Service. Music will be provided by our Chancel Choir. Nursery Available.
Good Friday, March 25 12:10 p.m. Ecumenical Worship Service
Easter Sunday, March 27
800662 3-19-16
Celebrate Christ’s Resurrection: 8:00 a.m. for families with young children 10:00 a.m. Music by our Chancel Choir and Brass Ensemble. Nursery provided.
First Congregational United Church of Christ
800797 3-19-16
Rev. Dr. Mark X. Pirazzini Dr. Gary Schwartzhoff, Director of Music Mrs. Judy Lies, Organist
310 Broadway Street, Eau Claire, WI 54703 (715-834-2668) www.firstucceauclaire.org
Meal of Remembrance ~ Wednesday, March 23, 6:00pm Easter Vigil ~ Sat., March 26, 8:00pm Easter Services ~ Sun., March 27, 6:30 & 9:00 am Youth Scone Sale between and after services
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To have your church included please call Leader-Telegram Advertising Consultant, Edie Litzkow 715-833-9239. Leader-Telegram
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Works Art of
By Mary Pierce
I wandered the National Gallery of Art in Washington D.C., through rooms full of paintings. Monet, Manet, Gauguin, Cezanne, Homer, Van Gogh — all those names from art history in college. I wished I’d paid better attention in class.
I lingered before Raphael’s “Madonna and Child with Saint John the Baptist.” The drawing, nearly 500 years old, survived to stir my soul. Later, I sat for nearly an hour in a room full of Monets, envisioning the famous artist as he recorded the simple stuff of life on canvas — hazy mornings, shimmering rivers, a bridge in fog, ordinary people. In the garden scenes, I imagined the tender touches of brush to canvas, capturing the watery image of spring rain, the subtle pastels of new life, the soft beauty of hope. If you’ve ever tried to sketch or paint, write or compose, you know it’s harder than it looks. The artists make it look easy, but
“Madonna and Child” did not appear miraculously on paper one Sunday morning as Raphael sat on the piazza, sipping cappuccino and listening to cathedral bells. (Books, poems and stories don’t write themselves in hotel rooms while their authors bask in the poolside sun. Darn!) We only see the end result of days, weeks or years of work. We see the painting but not the crumpled sketches, the mistakes or the smudges. We don’t hear the groans of frustration when the paint, or the inspiration, dries up. We read the story but never see the botched outlines, the subplots that deadended and the endless revisions. We don’t feel the spasms of fear at 7 FaithWalk
opening ourselves up to criticism, the head-banging angst that precedes public exposure. What was I thinking? I have no talent for this! I must have been crazy to think I could do this. As I was leaving the National Art Gallery, I passed two guards standing outside the building. I envied the museum guards. What was it like, I wondered, to spend day after day reveling in Renoir, marveling at Matisse, wowed by Whistler? As I walked by, I overheard one guard say to the other, “I’ve never seen a hummingbird.” The statement startled me. He’d never seen a hummingbird? He spent his Spring 2016
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Celebrate Easter withUs
MARCH 27
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Join us for Holy Week & Easter!
Please Join Us For Our Holy Week Services
Palm Sunday, March 20 8:45 a.m. & 10:45 a.m. Worship 9:45 a.m. Sunday School (Breakfast served from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.) Maundy Thursday, March 24 11:00 a.m. Worship 6:30 p.m. Seder Service Good Friday, March 25 11:00 a.m. & 6:30 p.m. Worship Easter Sunday, March 27 7:00 a.m. Sunrise Service 8:45 a.m. & 10:45 a.m. Worship
Maundy Thursday – March 24 at 7:00pm –
Joint service at Saving Grace Lutheran Church, Eastridge Center
Good Friday – March 25 at 7:00pm – Tenebrae Service Easter Sunday – March 27 at 9:00am – Celebration Service
801079 3-19-16
We are located 3 blocks off of Main St. at 1704 Hogeboom Ave.
1310 Main St., Eau Claire, WI 54701 P: 715-832-2421 E: office@first-lutheran.org
Regular Sunday Worship – at 9:00am Pastor Nick Henseler 715-514-2021 Worship with us anytime on our website under the sermon tab.
www.faithlutheranmc.org 800734 3-19-16
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days surrounded by all that beautiful art, but he’d never seen a hummingbird. There is a huge difference between seeing a hummingbird and seeing a picture of a hummingbird. The copy is never as good as the original. He’d never seen a real, live hummingbird. Quel dommage, I thought. (All that time with Monet had me thinking in French.) What a pity. I’ve stood beak to beak with hummingbirds at my kitchen window. I’ve heard their soft thrumming approach as I sat on the deck, hovering so close to me the hair on my neck prickled. I’ve seen their colors, their iridescent throats changing from green to ruby red to green.
God imagined us, created us, and we, like every work of art, are connected to our Creator. We sense the spark of hope he set in our soul. When we listen carefully, we hear his voice, whispering to our hearts. We sense our Creator calling to us, inviting intimacy. We burn as the divine breath fans hope’s spark into flame, igniting our passion and giving us purpose. And we take the leap into his arms, risking all, crying, “Yes, Lord!” and trusting him to make something beautiful of our lives.
About the author
Mary Pierce is an author, humorist and counselor. Mary and her husband, Terry, live in Eau Claire where they await the return of the hummingbirds.
“I’ve never seen a hummingbird,” the man said, and I pitied him. He’d never seen this stunning example of God’s art in motion. God could have made all birds alike, could have stamped them out factory style. But he didn’t. For the sheer delight of creating, he made a medley of light and pattern, size and shape, habit and voice. He made hummingbirds, frenzy on the wing, finer and more glorious than any still and frozen beauty crafted by man. And with that same sense of creative celebration, he made you and me. Psalm 139:16 says, “Your eyes saw my unformed body.” God, the Artist, imagined me. He imagined you. God had a vision of who you would be, exactly how he would form you. He imagined you, as a sculptor sees the finished form before he begins to chip away the stone, as a painter sees the desired result before she ever takes brush in hand. God had a vision of you and you are, the Psalmist says, “fearfully and wonderfully made” (Psalm 139:14). All of creation — hummingbirds, the gardens that inspired Monet and you — all creation is the jubilation of God.
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Celebrate Easter withUs ST JAMES TRINITY lUTHERAN 305 STATE STREET FAll CREEK 715-877-2160
3214 Golf Road • Eau Claire, WI
Holy Week
pASTOR JOANNE SORENSON 7:00pm 7:00pm 6:00am 9:00am
800683 3-19-16
MAUNDY THURSDAY GOOD FRIDAY Celebrate the Resurrection! EASTER SUNDAY SUNRISE SERvICE CElEbRATION WORSHIp
715-832-7832
“All are invited to Holy Week and Easter at St. John’s Lutheran Church” PALM SUNDAY March 20
Maundy Thursday ��������������������������������� 7:00 Good Friday ���������������������������������������� 7:00 Easter ��������������������������� 7:00 a�m� and 9:30 Easter Brunch ������������������������������� 8:00-9:00
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Immanuel is located two blocks east of Hwy. 93 on Golf Road www.immanuelec.org 800809
3-19-16
Truax Congregational Church of the United Church of Christ 1008 50th St, Eau Claire, WI 54703 (1 mile north of 312 on Kane Road)
8:15am & 10:45am Worship 8:30am - 12:00 Brunch
MAUNDY THURSDAY March 24
Easter Services at 7:00 a.m. and 9:30 a.m. With a POTLUCK between services.
Regular Services at 9:30 a.m. Pastor David Stratton
12:15pm & 7:00pm Worship with Holy Communion
800893 3-19-16
GOOD FRIDAY March 25
12:15pm & 7:00pm Worship
Pentecostal Assembly Church
EASTER SUNDAY March 27
6:55am Sunrise Worship 8:15am Festival Worship 10:45am Festival Worship
9 Ninth Avenue Eau Claire, WI 54703
715-832-2361
(interpreting for hearing impaired)
St. John’s Lutheran Church 1804 Highland Ave. 715-834-9571 (off Bus. Hwy 53, 2 blocks west of Perkins) www.stjohns-ec.org 800819 3-19-16
March 25 March 27
Good Friday Service Special Easter Service
7:30 p.m. 10:00 a.m. 800825 3-19-16
To have your church included please call Leader-Telegram Advertising Consultant, Edie Litzkow 715-833-9239. Leader-Telegram
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To Know Him By Jenny Blaisdell
In Jesus’ life on Earth, there were a chosen few who knew him well and loved him dearly. There were thousands who flocked to see him, to touch him, to hear him speak. There were crowds who waited for hours to be healed by him, but only a few truly knew him – face to face, walking with him daily and following his lead. Jesus’ impact on their lives would leave them forever changed. Do we know him that way? As Mary Magdalene left the empty tomb on the very first resurrection day, she could think of only one thing – I have to be with my Savior; I need Him. As the tears rolled down her cheeks and her heart began to break, she turned, and there he was. He is always there for those who seek him. We need him more than we know. He loves us more than we could ever imagine, and in moments when he seems far away, he is closer than we realize.
About the author
Jenny Blaisdell lives with her husband and their three kids in northwest Wisconsin. Writing is her most loved hobby and faith is her favorite topic. Jenny is employed as the family programs director for her local Community Learning Center.
This Easter as we remember his death and resurrection, could we seek to know him more? If we’re feeling condemned because we’ve set foot on the wrong path, all we need to do is turn. There he is. His open arms of grace are ready for us even before we choose them. Then, as we settle into the loving embrace of the one who knows us better than we know ourselves, let us not keep our joy hidden. On Easter Sunday, March 27 this year, and every single day of the year, may his light shine brightly through his children even in the darkest places.
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Celebrate Easter withUs Worship With Us Easter Services
6:30 & 8:30 a.m. Worship Service with Communion Breakfast Served at 7:30
St. PaulÊs Lutheran Church 721 South State St. Fall Creek, WI LCMS 715-877-2117
800846 3-19-16
715-834-2595
March 24: 11 am & 6:30 pm Maundy Thursday March 25: 1 pm & 6:30 pm Good Friday March 27: 7 am & 10 am Easter Sunday 800829 3-19-16
Good Friday, March 25 • 1-3pm Silent Meditation Labyrinth Walk Come when you can; leave when you must
UNITY CHRIST CENTER
800868 3-19-16
“We b
eh the Chr old Sunday, March 27 ist 10am Easter Sunday Service in you .” 11am Easter Egg Hunt
1808 Folsom Street, Eau Claire, WI 54703 715-836-0010 ~ www.unityeauclaire.org ~ unityeauclaire@gmail.com
800801 3-19-16
To have your church included please call Leader-Telegram Advertising Consultant, Edie Litzkow 715-833-9239. Leader-Telegram
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“I Thirst — Not for Water” By Steve Henry
I
t’s ironic that just three months earlier that I, as a Christian, celebrated the birth of a child named Jesus. And soon, I will struggle with a day that is called GOOD. GOOD FRIDAY. How can that be that this same Jesus is now despised and sentenced to death? Did I not read in my Bible that Jesus did wonderful things? He cured the sick, brought back to life some people, fed 5,000 followers and gave sight to the blind and hearing to the deaf. Those were good things, right? How could such loving kindnesses end in a sentence of death? Here was a man who surrounded himself with 12 individuals. They were his constant companions and witnessed his numerous called miracles. They were ready to fight for him in the garden when arrested. Not so. Sometimes I think that we need Jesus to physically return to this world. I especially perk up my ears when I hear individuals emphatically acclaim: “I would never be amongst those who cried out CRUCIFY HIM, CRUCIFY HIM!” Strong faith, right? I won’t knock it; however Jesus’ gang of 12 suddenly disappeared on the night of his arrest. One individual had gone out and hanged himself. Two others trailed along as Jesus was taken to be tried by Pilate. They denied even knowing the man.
Oh, and unless we forget, Jesus’ disciples were no place to be found as he trudged along with a beam of wood headed for Calvary. Veronica was there to wipe his sweat-smeared face. But it was a stranger named Simon who helped him carry the 80-pound piece of wood on which he would die. What about that horrific scene of three men hanging on crosses? Were they, and especially the man in the middle, surrounded by friends? No! A couple of women by the name of Mary were there along with Jesus’ beloved John. Did Jesus not cry out “Father, forgive them for they know not what they are doing?”
About the author
Steve Henry is a former radio and television news director and a retired outdoors writer and photographer from Chippewa Falls.
Not many persons heard Jesus’ message of forgiveness back then. Even his so-called companions were absent, other than his beloved John. So, as I contemplate another end to the Lenten season and the so-called Good Friday, I often think how loyal of a follower I would be if Jesus made another worldly visit. Really? Would my free will kick in and allow me to follow in Jesus’ footsteps? Or would I too deny Jesus? What will it be? Am I not included in that cry from the cross, “Father forgive them?” Can I now respond to what Jesus once said: “I thirst, not for water, but for LOVE!” Yes, I can. JESUS, I LOVE YOU! 13 FaithWalk
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Celebrate Easter withUs Celebrate Jesus’ Resurrection!
Join us this Easter at Bethesda Lutheran Church Palm Sunday Choir Concert (March 20)
Good Friday (March 25)
Tenebrae (Traditional) ... 1:00 pm “Son of God, Son of Man” Shadows (Eleeo) ........... 6:30 pm ....... 3:00 pm Easter Morning
123 W. Hamilton Avenue, Eau Claire, Wisconsin
800691 3-19-16
Worship Services
Traditional ..................... 7:45 am Traditional ..................... 9:00 am Contemporary ............. 10:30 am Modern Worship .........10:30 am
800877 3-19-16
www.C3ec.org | 715.835.5073
Holy Week Services Corner of Lake Street and Fourth Avenue Tel. 715-832-6603
Maundy Thursday Worship w/Faith Lutheran ......7:00 pm Good Friday Worship ...............................................Noon Easter Eve Worship ...............................................5:00 pm Easter Sunday Worship ..................7:00, 8:30 & 10:40 am
HOLY WEEK and EASTER SERVICES
2124 EastRidge Center, Eau Claire, WI • 715-514-3552
Lake Street United Methodist Church
Palm Sunday, March 20 8:30 and 10:00 am Palm CelebraƟon ΗWhat the Master NeedsΗ
Maundy Thursday, March 24 at 6:30 pm Sacrament of Holy Communion
Good Friday, March 25 at 6:30 pm Service of Gathering Darkness
Easter Sunday, March 27
6:30 A.M. Festival Worship led by Youth with Communion 8:00 A.M. Festival Traditional Worship 9:30 A.M. Festival Contemporary Worship 10:45 A.M. Festival Worship with Communion
Easter Sunday, March 27 8:30 and 10:00 am Easter Worship ΗBelie fΗ 800813 3-19-16
800855 3-19-16
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The Audit No one ever wants a letter from the Internal Revenue Service — unless, of course, it contains a refund check. The letter stated it was a random audit. The IRS runs a random computer batch of Social Security numbers, and when your number is up, you are a candidate for review.
Ugh! The thought of being investigated by a government office was extremely intimidating to me. The letter stated that either I or my husband could make an appointment to go over the previous year’s tax return. It turned out I was the lucky candidate. A week before my appointment, an acquaintance from work suggested that I pray before I entered the IRS building. He also suggested I hold open the door and allow the Lord to go before me. The day of the dreaded appointment arrived, I nervously walked towards the building when I remembered what my friend suggested. “Why not!?” After all I believed in God for other things in my life. Why not this too? Is there anything too big for God? I held open the oversized door and waited a few minutes to allow God to go before me. I found the directory and quickly pinpointed where the IRS office was located on the second floor. As I began to walk up the curving staircase, I was startled by the man sitting underneath the stairs. He commented loudly, “Must have been a very important person you allowed through those doors!”
By Lonnie Frock After checking in with the receptionist, I quickly found a seat between two suited men with briefcases. As each suit was called for his appointment, my nerves began to fray. “Lord, please let a woman audit me.” My prayer became more of a desperate plea. I barely finished the words when a sweet voice called out my name. As I followed the petite lady back to her office, a calming peace swept over me. “Mrs. Frock, no need to be nervous. This is a random audit, and I just need proof from you for a few of the itemized deductions. First, do you have a statements from your church for your offerings? Second, we need proof of the rental property you own.” After quickly reviewing all the statements, she looked up through her glasses. “Well, it looks like everything is order here. There is a difference of $100. I will give you a return envelope, and you can mail it in at your convenience. Have good day, Mrs. Frock.”
About the author
Lonnie Frock and her husband, David, live in Eau Claire. They have been blessed with five adopted children and six grandchildren. She is involved in a monthly critic group and Christian writers’ guild.
As I walked down the stairs and towards the door, the voice from the bottom of the stairwell sounded one more time. “ So did He take care of everything for you?” “Yes he did,” I answered him back. “The LORD is the one who goes ahead of you; He will be with you He will not fail you or forsake you.” Deuteronomy 31:8
Too nervous to explain, I quickly shook my head yes and bolted up the stairs.
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Maundy Thursday Service Thursday, March 24 â&#x20AC;¢ 6:00pm
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Good Friday Service
Friday, March 25 â&#x20AC;¢ 12:15pm In Cooperation with the Newman Catholic Parish
Ecumenical Religious Center 110 Garfield Avenue, Eau Claire
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Easter Sunday Service
Sunday, March 27 â&#x20AC;¢ 10:00am
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A Good Start
Article provided by Aging and Disabilities Resource Center.
The goal of the Memory Care Connections program is to provide knowledge and support to people caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia. A Memory Care Consultant will: Assess your situation and discuss your concerns. Help you and your family understand Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias and how the disease may progress over time. Work with you and your family on developing a plan that supports you. Discuss strategies, provide coping tools and problem solving skills that will help reduce stress. Assist you in obtaining community resources and support Contact the Aging & Disability Resource Center of Eau Claire County at 715-839-4735 or adrc@co.eau-claire.wi.us
Meals County Meals on onWheels WheelsofofEau EauClaire Claire County If you or someone you love is 60 years or older, struggles to get out and grocery shop and cooking is difficult, have Lunch with us... let us do the cooking. A nutritious, freshly prepared, tasty, hot meal delivered to your door at the noon time by a friendly volunteer. Included is a daily wellbeing check to ensure safety and a social connection. Delivering Smiles one meal at a time . Call the Aging & Disability Resource Center Nutrition Program, 715-839-4886.
When you first learn that a loved one needs help it is hard to know where to begin. Sometimes there is a sudden change of health that prompts you to get involved, such as a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease or other dementia. Other times it is a gradual realization that the person is no longer capable of meeting all of their needs. In addition, there is so much information on the Internet and so many resources available in the community, this alone can be overwhelming! Where do you begin? The Aging & Disability Resource Center (ADRC) of Eau Claire County can help you explore options such as Meals on Wheels, in-home supportive home care services, transportation, adult day services, support groups, caring for someone with dementia such as the Memory Care Connections program, planning for future care needs and much more. Call the ADRC today and set up an office or home visit at your convenience to get started on exploring your options. The sooner you learn about local resources the better prepared and less stressed you will be in providing care to a loved one. For more information, call the ADRC at 715-839-4735, email at adrc@co.eau-claire.wi.us or check us out online at www.eauclaireadrc.org. 800715 3-19-16
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Savor!
Easter Dining
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12
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Chicken, ham, mashed potatoes, vegetable, dressing, gravy, cracker basket, relish tray & dinner rolls
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Leader-Telegram
Spring 2016
FaithWalk 18
Acts of Kindness By Mary Ellen Bliss
I’ll admit it: I’m a readaholic. Nothing makes me happier than going to the library on a Saturday morning and filling my book bag with at least a dozen new paperbacks. The minute I get home, I crack open one of the coveted books, and I don’t come up for air until Sunday evening. And then I wonder, “What happened to the weekend?!” My favorite genre is cozy mysteries because I don’t have to be subjected to a lot of blood and gore; yet, the mystery has enough twists and turns to keep me interested until the last page. As a bonus, the main character usually does or says something that makes me think. Recently I re-read one of my favorite cozies and was struck anew by the poignancy of some of the passages. The main character, Lori, had rather reluctantly befriended a homeless man. At first, Lori found the man a “nuisance” (her description) because he “forced me to look at things I didn’t want to see and remember things I wanted to forget.” As she learned his life story and realized all the good he had done in the world, her feelings changed. “He reminded me that blessings aren’t a right – they’re a gift,” she said. “I’m no more entitled to them than anyone else, and I’m ashamed of myself for not remembering it sooner.” What a profound statement. And Lori is so right. How many times have I rather smugly thought, “I’m a good person … I deserve happiness.” But the truth of the matter is why do I deserve happiness more than anyone else? The reality is that every good thing that happens to me is a blessing from God. It is up to me to make sure I don’t become self-righteous and oblivious to the needs of those around me. Pope Francis, in this Year of Mercy, reminds us to hear the voices of the poor, sick, homeless or lost, and respond in mercy. We know that Jesus was born into poverty and lived his life among people who were adrift and marginalized. The Gospel calls all who are followers of Jesus to feed the hungry, clothe the naked and have compassion for the sick. But, practically speaking, how can we do that? How can we make sure we’re not oblivious to the needs of those around us? There are so many wonderful opportunities in the Chippewa Valley to help those in need. The Sojourner House gives shelter to the homeless. The St. Francis Food Pantry and Feed My People
offer sustenance to those who would otherwise go without. The Chippewa Valley Free Clinic in Eau Claire and the Open Door Clinic in Chippewa Falls give needed medical care to those with limited or no health insurance. These are just a few examples of organizations that provide assistance to those who are struggling in our community. But beyond the physical needs, how can we respond to the emotional needs of others? People can be cruel to one another. Harsh words are spoken. Anger erupts at the drop of a hat. Name calling and insults ensue. Rudeness is commonplace. And that’s just at the presidential debates! Let’s face it: our world needs more kindness and compassion. Being kind to one another can be easy to do and doesn’t have to cost one penny. Here are just a few ideas: Listen to people with interest and concern, giving them your full attention.
About the author
Mary Ellen Bliss has been a colleague at HSHS Sacred Heart Hospital since 2006, where she is the office facilitator for the Center for Spiritual Care.
Be compassionate to someone who seems to be having a bad day. They may be hurting in ways we can’t even begin to comprehend. Lend an elderly person a hand, whether it’s doing their grocery shopping, helping with yard or house work, or taking them to an appointment. Call someone you haven’t talked to in a while, just to let them know you’re thinking of them. Gently encourage someone who seems to be at a low point in their life. Your support may be just what they need to see the world in a brighter light. Remind your friends and loved ones every day that they are a blessing in your life. When someone angers you, think twice before you respond with a barrage of harsh declarations. Remember, words are powerful. Every word we use can result in a negative or positive impact. Practicing acts of kindness should be a natural expression of who we are. When we are sensitive and attentive to the physical and emotional needs of those around us, we can make a positive difference in the world, one person at a time.
19 FaithWalk
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Leader-Telegram
Savor!
Easter Dining 800795 3-19-16
11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Buffet
Easter Sunday
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$ 5-12 8 Adults 18 • Age Under 5 FREE ciated $
Serving 11AM - 3PM Adults $16.95 6 yrs - 12 yrs $6.95
pre
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Leader-Telegram
Spring 2016
FaithWalk 20
om
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poetry 21 FaithWalk
Spring 2016
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Savor!
Easter Dining
800487 3-19-16
800463 3-19-16
Leader-Telegram
Spring 2016
FaithWalk 22
800798 3-19-16
I Gave Him Up for Lent By Sally Lewis I thought he may have been heaven sent, then I gave them up for Lent.
About the Author
I refrain from calling, saving my strength, For a fellow who I know can endure a great length.
Sally Lewis is an emerging healing artist residing on her home farm in New Auburn.
Let God and let go is the name of the show, Eventually fears melt away like the snow. I want God to be first in my heart, No earthly man can have that part. Even though some days we feel frail, Coupled with Christ, we cannot fail.
23 FaithWalk
Spring 2016
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Savor!
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800465 • 3-19-16
Leader-Telegram
Spring 2016
FaithWalk 24
800381 3-19-16
Let us do theu! baking for yo
- 715.861.7654
• Sat 7:30 am-6 pm
Not Mine
By Savanna Blaisdell When the world is cold and dark, I will be the light, the golden spark. But the light is not mine. My creator, the maker of the universe, Shines through me.
About the Author
Savanna Blaisdell, a freshman, is 14. Although she has a quiet nature, Savanna loves to share her growing faith when the opportunity arises.
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Spring 2016
Leader-Telegram
Sponsored Content
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Leader-Telegram
Spring 2016
800808 3-19-16
FaithWalk 26
800807 3-19-16
Article provided by Seniors Helping Seniors.
(715) 514-4511
www.seniorshelpingseniors.com
Crossing the River By Deetje J. Wildes I glimpse the Destroyer as he passes over me. He senses blood of the Lamb here, and trembles, for I have dipped my branch of hyssop in the basin and covered my house top of door frame and left side and right all of me dripping scarlet, steeped in infinite covenant between Father and Son, sacrifice beyond comprehension, Lamb slain from eternity past. I cross the Red Sea and begin a forever dance with Miriam. Come, you free captives, celebrate with me. Rejoice as we await that next great crossing. Jordan River, too will part. Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s go across together, eager to greet the Risen Lamb.
About the Author
Deetje J. Wildes enjoys making music and experimenting with visual arts. She attends Bethesda Lutheran Brethren Church in Eau Claire and is an enthusiastic member of the Western Wisconsin Christian Writers Guild.
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Leader-Telegram
Sponsored Content
Have the Talk of a Lifetime People talk about many things with their loved ones: from day-to-day details to big events. Sharing stories with those who matter most isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t just important today; it will be especially significant when itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to commemorate a life. Have the Talk of a LifetimeSM is a national effort to encourage families to have conversations about life and what matters most. These discussions can help families make important decisions about how they wish to remember and honor the lives of their loved ones. Through meaningful memorialization â&#x20AC;&#x201C; that is, taking time to reflect on the unique life of a loved one and remember the difference they made â&#x20AC;&#x201C; families and friends take an important step in the journey toward healing after death. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Memorialization is so much more than it used to be,â&#x20AC;? said Randall Mundt, owner of Stokes, Prock & Mundt Funeral Chapel. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It can reflect a personâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life story â&#x20AC;&#x201C; their values, interests and experiences â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and be transformative, healing and comforting. Meaningful memorialization starts when loved ones talk about what matters most: memories made, lessons learned and how they hope to be remembered.â&#x20AC;?
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Visit www.stokesprockandmundt.com for a link to watch a video and download your free Have the Talk of a Lifetime brochure, or call Stokes, Prock & Mundt Funeral Chapel at 715-832-3428 to request a free copy of the brochure.
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The Have the Talk of a Lifetime campaign is sponsored by the Funeral and Memorial Information Council.
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Leader-Telegram
Spring 2016
FaithWalk 28
Calvary By Helen R. Mroz Did you ever catch a vision Of Golgotha’s lonely hill? Of the darkness and the earth quake, Then how every thing grows still? Up against that far horizon, There appear the crosses — three. In the center hung the Savior, Shedding His blood for you and me. Yes, it is the King of Heaven. Wounded, bleeding, suffering, sore. He’s partaking of this torture, So that we will die no more. Isaiah 53:5 But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities: The chastisement of our peace upon Him; and with His stripes we are healed.
About the Author
Helen R. Mroz of Eau Claire selfpublished a book of poems, “Poems With a Message.” She is retired.
Blessed Calvary
By David Hanvelt and Steven Cheney The hammers fell, a cross was raised, As storm clouds filled the skies. Some mocked the one they called a king, Some ran away to hide. Each drop of blood he shed that day, Brought vic’try from defeat. And when he cried, “It’s finished,” His mission was complete. Blessed Calvary, where our Savior died. Blessed Calvary, when heaven’s gates burst open wide. He broke the chains of sin and set us free. Oh what mercy, grace and love beyond degree, At blessed Calvary. A stone rolled back, an empty grave, We serve a risen Lord. That’s how we know that cruel cross Was what he came here for. ‘Cause only heaven’s perfect lamb Could be this sacrifice. And through our faith in Jesus, We have eternal life. Surely, this was God’s only son. The one who would redeem us with his own precious blood. Blessed Calvary, where our Savior died. Blessed Calvary, when heaven’s gates burst open wide. He broke the chains of sin and set us free. Oh what mercy, grace and love beyond degree, At blessed Calvary.
About the Author
David Hanvelt of Eau Claire has been an author and gospel songwriter for more than 40 years with 100-plus recordings of his songs by various artists. Steven Cheney is an assistant pastor and worship leader in Zanesville, Ohio. They have collaborated on 17 published songs, with David writing lyrics and Steven doing music composition.
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Leader-Telegram
It Was Jesus By Faith Blaisdell
There’s a path, there’s a way for your special day, and sometimes you might wonder who did it. If you asked me I would say, “It was Jesus.” It’s Jesus who gave up His life for you. God gave you His one and only son. It was Jesus who gave you the choice of salvation of salvation. Jesus is the one who planned your life. Jesus is the one who gave His life. Jesus is the one, Jesus is the one who sacrificed, who sacrificed, and He gave you the choice of salvation. There’s a path, there’s a way for your special day, and sometimes you might wonder who did it. If you asked me I would say, “It was Jesus.” It’s Jesus who gave up His life for you. God gave you His one and only son. It was Jesus who gave you the choice of salvation of salvation. Jesus is the one who planned your life. Jesus is the one who gave His life. Jesus is the one, Jesus is the one who sacrificed, who sacrificed, and He gave you the choice of salvation.
Leader-Telegram
Spring 2016
FaithWalk 30
About the Author
Faith Blaisdell, 8, is in the third grade. She loves to learn and really enjoys singing. Almost as soon as she could write, she began writing little poems and songs. She sometimes uses the tune to a song she has heard and writes new words to it.
One Tiny Seed By Loraine Faschingbauer A seed so tiny you cannot see is put in every heart. It needs nourishment to grow. God’s love is where it starts. We sow and reap it daily as years come and go. God tenderly watches the seed. Your heart HE truly knows.
About the Author
Loraine Faschingbauer of Bloomer is a retired nursing home activity assistant. She is a poet and author, having published “Against All Odds,” the story of one of her ventilator residents.
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Leader-Telegram
Learn These Secrets of Estate Preservation
THE BEST CARE IN SIGHT
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Thursday, April 21, 2016 2:00-3:30 p.m. or 7:00-8:30 p.m. Call (800) 823-1154 (24 hours) to RESERVE FREE SEATS RSVP by Wed., April 20, 2016
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Look inside for ways to
Church Service Directory and Easter Savor
Don’t miss one of Eau Claire’s estate preservation educators.
431 E. Clairemont Ave., Suite A • Eau Claire, WI 54701 (715) 839-1006
www.chrishasenberg.com
Securities and Advisory Services offered through Royal Alliance Associates, Inc., Member FINRA/SIPC. Insurance offered through Investment Management Associates, which is not affiliated with Royal Alliance Associates, Inc.
r e st a E e t a Celebr in the area. OAKLEAF MEDICAL NETWORK ORK
Chris Hasenberg is a financial advisor with an office in Eau Claire. Over the last 20 years, Chris has counseled thousands of families on estate preservation techniques. Chris has assembled and utilizes a team approach to providing you with an entertaining and informational presentation.
800642 • 3-19-16
This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax, legal or investment planning advice as individual situations will vary.