Christmas 2017 An online article subtitled “A World in Ruins” voices the concerns that many people feel as 2017 comes to a close: “Newspaper headlines trumpet financial woes, increasing disease and starvation, worsening weather conditions, political upheaval and nations on the brink of war—all worse than ever before….While some conditions may temporarily improve, the overall trends always evidence that humanity as a whole is on a downward spiral. How many tears do human beings shed as a result of untold pain and anguish?...World events are creating a perfect storm of destruction.” Do you think this way? Many of us do. But perhaps the more important question is: “What does God think?” If indeed the world is “in ruins” as some would say, this Advent and Christmas we will take heart at Minnekirken over the God who has an excellent track record for renovation! The book of Isaiah is filled with passages of hope, love, joy, and peace—each of these words are an Advent candle lit in praise to God. Please join us as we worship the God who knows how to replace human ruin with divine restoration.
Ephesians 1:15-23: Minnekirken: A Work in Progress—Christ the King Sunday (Nov. 26)
Isaiah 58:11-13: We are “Repairs of Broken Walls”—Advent Hope Sunday (Dec. 3)
Isaiah 51:2-4: The Lord has Compassion Upon the Ruins—Advent Love Sunday (Dec. 10/Santa Lucia Sunday)
Isaiah 52:8-10: The Ruins Will Rejoice—Advent Joy Sunday (Dec. 17)
Isaiah 61:3-5: God’s Blueprint of Restoration —Advent Peace Sunday (Dec. 24)
Isaiah 62:6-12: “Build up, Build Up!”—Christmas Day
Isaiah 61:10—62:3: Minnekirken: A “Burning Torch” (Dec. 31/Juletrefest Sunday) Visit Minnekirken’s website: www.minnekirken-chicago.org Visit us on Facebook! Minnekirken-Norwegian Lutheran Memorial Church
Visit us in person… Open every Sunday at 11 2614 N. Kedzie Blvd. Chicago
Pictures of Past Church Events
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Church Calendar
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Pastor David Schoenknecht’s message
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Greetings from Church President Bev
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Open House Results/Church Art
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Upcoming Events
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Laugh a Little (and sometimes a lot!)
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A Voyage on the Stavangerfjord
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Book Review
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Memories of Magnhild
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Velkommen alle Sammen! Celebrate the Advent and Christmas season with the annual Christmas Concert at Minnekirken! We looking forward to seeing you on Sunday, Dec. 3rd at 6:30 PM with your family and friends at the Norwegian Lutheran Memorial Church-Chicago. Lift your hearts and voices with songs and music and share Norwegian culture and spirit!
2017 Summer Wrap Up In 2017 Minnekirken enjoyed a week full of children at the 2nd annual Vacation Bible School, we were inspired by the Northern Lights concert to benefit hurricane victims and were enlightened on the Reformation.
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CHURCH CALENDAR DECEMBER Sunday, Dec. 3 Sunday, Dec. 10 Sunday, Dec. 17 Sunday, Dec. 24 Monday, Dec. 25 Sunday, Dec. 31
11:00 a.m. 6:30 p.m. 11:00 a.m. 11:00 a.m. 11:00 a.m. 11:00 a.m. 11:00 a.m.
Sunday Service. Christmas Concert. Santa Lucia Sunday Service. Holy Communion. Sunday Service. Sunday Service. Holy Communion. Christmas Day Service. Sunday Service. Juletrefest. (Christmas Tree Party).
JANUARY Sunday, Jan. 7 Sunday, Jan. 14 Sunday, Jan. 21 Sunday, Jan. 28
11:00 a.m. 11:00 a.m. 11:00 a.m. 11:00 a.m.
Sunday Service. Holy Communion. Sunday Service. Fantastisk 4th Family Worship Service. Sunday Service. Lunch & Learn.
EXTRA! EXTRA! On January 20th, we plan to host a Lørdagskos dinner and Norwegian movie night! Let us know if you are interested! Pastor will be hosting another Lunch & Learn for new members and friends on January 28th after worship. Talk to pastor if you want to attend!
ASH WEDNEDAY SIMPLE SUPPER (5:30 pm) AND SERVICE WITH THE IMPOSITION OF ASHES (6:30 pm) IS ON VALENTINE'S DAY - FEBRUARY 14, 2018 God Jul og an Godt Nytt År fra Faland Family Edvin, Bruce, Maribeth, Martin, Scott, Carolyn, Kelsey, Lars
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A snowflake is one of God's most fragile creations, but look what they can do when they stick together. ~ Author Unknown
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KONTAKT magazine is published by the congregation of the Norwegian Lutheran Memorial Church, 2614 N. Kedzie Blvd. Chicago, IL 60647 (773)252-7335 Email: office.nlmc@gmail.com Editor: Leandra Trifunovich 847-292-9999 2017 Christmas Kontakt Kontributors: Pastor David Schoenknecht Kari Diesen Dahl Betty and David Geilen Yeeseon Kwon Lynn Maxson Barbra Kronborg Mogil
Dear Members, Friends, and Supporters of Minnekirken, As we edge ever closer to Advent 2017 and our marking of a new Church Year, my thoughts reflect back upon this past year and project into the next with thanksgiving, hope, and the constant expectation to be surprised by Minnekirken again and again. When I say “Minnekirken” three things come to mind: 1. Minnekirken the congregation: Our faithful community of members who gather for worship, fellowship and service in Christ’s name. 2. Minnekirken the hearth of Norwegian and Scandinavian culture: The koselig place where Nordic languages, food, music, dance, dress, crafts, and traditions galore are both shared and experienced. 3. Minnekirken the iconic landmark building: The only church on Logan Square which—in a city where churches are closing, being torn down, or transformed into condos at a dizzying rate—is still a place where God’s Word is heard and the Sacraments are administered. Each of these “three” Minnekirkens is surprising and challenging in its own unique way. As for the latter, I was surprised that nearly 1700 people would visit our church as part of the Chicago Architectural Foundation’s Open House Chicago—2017. People came out in droves, in the worst of weather, to tour our building. These visitors ate upwards of 400 Norwegian waffles which raised $1000 for our restorations. A good thing too, because the deluge of rain on the Saturday of #OHC2017, sprang leaks in our roof that I had never seen before. Like I said, Minnekirken is a place of wonderful surprises and significant challenges. And to be honest the repairs and restorations have been a challenge for this Minnekirken in 2017. Unlike the more glamorous window projects of 2016, essential things like roofing and tuckpointing have stretched our budget this year. As for Minnekirken the culture hearth, we do keep the fires burning for all things Norwegian. Our Expedition Norway Vacation Bible School that mixes Bible stories with Norwegian foods and crafts reached three times as many children this year! Now there’s talk of monthly arts and crafts classes at Minnekirken and more from our C3 Fellowship ministry in which we learn Nordic cuisine, enjoy community, and compassionately share what we’ve made with others. Given the number of flyers we handed out at Open House Chicago, there’s also reason to think that our Taste of Norway will be bigger and better than ever. But for all the pleasant cultural surprises, including professors, choirs, and performers who reach out to us from Norway, in 2017 some our pillars have fallen, like Magnhild Faland. The more I heard of Magnhild, a leader of the Julejente, the more I’ve come to realize, what a loss she was to us—both culturally speaking and in terms of our capacity for velkommen. She was a tremendous ambassador for Minnekirken, a cultural treasure. Those challenges are falling upon others now, even some who aren’t Norwegian. Gratefully, I have seen new members rise to the occasion in so many ways. Finally, what a surprise it was for Minnekirken, on the occasion of the 500th Anniversary of Luther’s Reformation celebrate the confirmation of our first class in many years. If you were to tell me last year that our community was going to raise up a confirmation class this year, I wouldn’t have believed you. But a class of five did indeed come together in 4
2017 to make confession of the Christian faith into which they were baptized and to commit themselves to good of Minnekirken’s ministry. But here’s the challenge for us—even with the gain of new members and confirmations, due to the loss of our older, faithful members, our church attendance is slipping. It’s happening slowly, but it is happening. This is a course that all of us need to dedicate ourselves to reversing in 2018. Building up this Body of Christ is what I have been called to do, but we are in this together—more of us need to be in worship more of the time. By your worship attendance we are mutually encouraged. By your faithful giving in worship we can support all “three” Minnekirkens—the ministries of this community of believers, our cultural presence, and our landmark building. Repairs have put us $30,000 in the red this year. That’s a fact. It’s something that I could address by asking for more money our members, friends, and supporters. But anyone who has known me knows that’s not something I often do. In fact even now I’d prefer to address this shortfall in another way. I want to make it our goal to make 2018 a year of church homecoming. Beginning with an invitation that many of you received to our Reformation 500 celebration, I want to set a simple and—I believe—highly attainable goal for us. Let’s reform our church attendance by reach-ing toward an average of 50 worshippers every Sunday and at least one 100 worshipper Sunday for each quarter of 2018! As Reformation 500 slips into the rearview mirror, my sights are set on Reformation 50-100! Please partner with me in this so that the Holy Spirit working through God’s Word and Sacraments might breathe fresh wind into the sails of Minnekirken. See you in worship, Pastor David Schoenknecht
109 and Looking Fine! Mend the Roof in 110? With new windows and fresh paint, Minnekirken looks prettier than we've looked in decades, but our bones are rattling a bit...time, elements, wear and tear, wind, cold, rain and snow all add up. The deluge of rain that we experienced in October sprang leaks that would have impressed Noah with his Ark! Because our roof is of slate and copper, the cost for repairs can add up to tens of thousands. Our faithful members who come to church week in and week out have given much and worked hard to keep our dear Minnekirken healthy and strong. But our Kontakt readers have been a huge help too! Please use the enclosed envelope to send in a special roof repair donation. Or come on down any Sunday to donate in person! We’d love to see you! Tusen Takk! God Jul og ha et riktig Nytt År!
Greetings from the Norwegian National League! Kontakt Greeting / Holidays 2017 Greetings from your Norwegian National League! Leif Erikson Day, Christmas Around the World, 17de mai celebration… all organized by the dedicated group of delegates that is the NNL! Our meetings are a good source of what is happening in our Norwegian community. Our meetings (6/year) are lively and welcoming to the representatives and guests. We meet in the Riley Dining Room at Norwood Crossing. If you are interested in attending a meeting, contact a delegate for the next meeting date. Parents, grandparents, aunts & uncles: encourage the youngsters in your family to participate in the Scholarship Program available to students 1st through 12th grade. For details refer to the website: www.nnleague.org Wishing one and all a happy, healthy holiday! Sincerely, Barbra Kronborg-Mogil NNL President 5
God Jul! It’s been a very busy year that has flown by quickly. As Pastor David has mentioned most of our activities throughout this past year, I just want to wish everyone a Blessed Christmas and a Happy New Year. I would like to thank everyone for their contribution of time and hard work. We are all looking forward to 2018 as a year of continued growth and success for the Church. Sincerely, Bevery Coyveau
One kind word can warm three winter months.
The Joy Of Giving
—Japanese Proverb
By Lynn Sove Maxson For many years we have had an open house to celebrate Christmas. It has grown to almost 100 guests. We feel that we are blessed to have such great friends to share this with us. After each party we would find all kinds of lovely and thoughtful gifts throughout the house. We were thankful but really didn’t need anything. One year we attended a friend’s party, there was a box in the garage for the local food pantry. We thought this was a great idea. The following year we wrote on our invitations: “Please no hostess gifts but bring some nonperishable food for our local food pantry.” The day of the party, my husband Tom put a large box with a sign in the front hallway. Then he spent most of the day carrying the box to the basement to empty it! We were blown out of the water by all the food we received. Everyone thought this was such a wonderful joy of giving. We called the pantry to come and get the food and they were totally amazed. The next year we asked if they could bring one of their large barrels for the front porch. Now each year they bring two large barrels with their logo and I add a sign "Tusen Takk og God Jul!" Last year near the end of the party, another giving surprise occurred. As our friend Jean was hugging me good bye, she slipped something into my apron pocket. Yes, I was wearing an apron! I went to put my hand in the pocket but she said, "Later." I forgot all about it until the wee hours when we were cleaning up. She had given me her stunning silver, geode and natural crystal necklace which I had complimented her on when she arrived!!!!! When I called her the next day to thank her, she asked if I really liked it. She thought it would look better on me. When I wear it, everyone admires it and especially when I share the apron story. It makes it so special. This really expresses the joy of giving!!!!!!!! 6
Unless we make Christmas an occasion to share our blessings, all the snow in Alaska won't make it 'white'. —Bing Crosby
Editor’s note: Curt Vevang sent in this following poem he had written in response to the Kontakt Fall article about Norway, IL.
The Spirit of a Midwestern Town Curt Vevang The rustic landscape, lush vegetation, a small rural town, posing for tourists. European charm and staunch Viking grit, Home to Norwegians since times long ago. An old Lutheran church with beams hewn by hand, joined with wooden pegs, by Norse artisans. A plaque in the square, a reminder of The joyous day when King Olav stopped by. Firewood stacked high for brutal winters, reminding one of a Midwestern town. But nothing says Norway like the coffee shop, brewing stout flavors since 1850. Stop in for a cup next time you're close by, Route 71, Norway, Illinois. Published in the nature of things Amazon.com - 2017
1,669 Visitors to Minnekirken over Oct. 14 & 15 Last spring a representative from the Chicago Architecture Foundation contacted Pastor David Schoenknecht. The Foundation was scouting sites in the Logan Square neighborhood in preparation for their very popular Open House Chicago Tour in 2017and were considering adding Minnekirken to the tour this year. There are so many amazing churches in Chicago, but they only let new ones in by invitation. Given that they were expanding #OHC2017 into Logan Square this year, we were a natural fit OHC supplied several volunteers - and the church added our own very dedicated waffle makers, docents, etc. The visitors could buy waffles and a cup of coffee for $3. Because the waffles were made continually all the time in Festsalen they were definitely fresh! They smelled soooo good and people really enjoyed them. Norwegian chocolate was for sale and also our pins with the church logo. Saturday we had 669 visitors who came and saw our church. Sunday we had 1000 visitors come through our front doors. Many people thanked us for having an open house. They had often wondered what our church was like on the inside. And they were very impressed. The self guided tour can be accessed at https://trackmytour.com/fvPgw#1886286 and features information on eight areas: our front doors, the cornerstone which was laid on Palm Sunday, April 12, 1908 and replanted in 1934; parsonage, church hall; narthex; sanctuary; the chancel; and the sanctuary facing east— which describes pews, light fixtures and balcony. Whether you’re a regular church-goer or just a casual visitor to Minnekirken you will learn a lot about the church’s history, inside and out!
Viven sells waffles to visitors
Church Art In the entrance hall of the church, are two lovely posters donated by Wenche Howe. One is called “NORDLYS OVER HAMMERFEST,” “Northern Lights over Hammerfest," the other “MÅNESKINN, HAMMERFEST SETT FRA SØRØYA,” “Moonlight, Hammerfest seen from Sørøya." The two framed posters are made from the original paintings by Eva Arnesen, a painter form Hammerfest, Norway . They capture the magnificent city of Hammerfest and surrounding landscape. Eva’s gallery, Syvstjerna, is located in Hammerfest (Syvstjerna.no). In 1997, Eva received the honorable task of illustrating the diploma for the Nobel Peace Prize. 7
UPCOMING EVENTS YOU WON’T WANT TO MISS... Every Sunday at 9:30 a.m. we have Bible study. Come join Pastor's study that delves into each Sunday's readings a week ahead of time. Do you have a heart that longs to sing? Then we can work with your voice! No prior experience needed! Adult choir practice for our annual Christmas concert is on Sundays at 10:30 a.m. Contact our Music Director, Yeeseon Kwon, at yeeseon.kwon@gmail.com for more information. Every 4th Sunday of the Month we have our "Fantastisk 4th Family Worship and Sunday School." Sunday school takes place in the festsalen during the regular 11 a.m. Sunday service. All children K-8th grade are welcome! The Norwegian Christmas program at the Museum of Science and Industry is scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 2nd at 12:15pm. In addition to the Minnekirken Children's chorus, the Grieg Ladies, and Leikarringen 'Heimhug" will participate. Minnekirken's annual Christmas Concert is, December 3rd at 6:30 p.m. Please join us for this traditional night of Scandinavian music, food, and juletider fellowship! Christmas Day Festival Worship at Minnekirken is Sunday, December 25 at 11:00 a.m. Sunday, December 31st, after worship at 11:00 a.m. We will celebrate Juletrefest with cookies, songs, and dancing around the Christmas tree.
Monet Paints Norway In gallery 242 in the Art Institute of Chicago is a painting of Mt. Kolsaas, done by Claude Monet in 1895 when he stayed near Oslo for two months., painting outdoors with “icicles hanging from my beard like stalactites.” To Monet, an impressionist, light was highly interesting—in this painting especially how light reflected off snow. Monet might paint outdoors at for example noon one day for a quarter of an hour and then the next day and the next always at the same time, in order to catch the feeling of the light at just that time of day. You can see pinks and blues and pale grey colors in the snow of “Sandvika, Norway” and perhaps guess what time of day Monet did the painting. We know it was in the winter. Color copies of this painting are available at the Art Institute and online. 8
French artist Monet’s Snow-covered Norwegian Mountain
Laugh a Little…. What goes ‘Oh! Oh! Oh?’ Santa walking backwards.
I Am the New Year Bible Illustrator I am the new year. I am an unspoiled page in your book of time. I am your next chance at the art of living. I am your opportunity to practice what you have learned about life during the last twelve months. All that you sought and didn’t find is hidden in me, waiting for you to search it but with more determination. All the good that you tried for and didn’t achieve is mine to grant when you have fewer conflicting desires. All that you dreamed but didn’t dare to do, all that you hoped but did not will, all the faith that you claimed but did not have—these slumber lightly, waiting to be awakened by the touch of a strong purpose. I am your opportunity to renew your allegiance to Him who said, "Behold, I make all things new."
What do you call an elf who sings? A wrapper. How can you tell when Santa’s close by? You can sense his presents. What’s the best Xmas present? A broken drum – you just can’t beat it. I’ve bought my kids a pack of batteries for Christmas with a note saying: ‘Toys not included’. The Three Wise Men sound very generous but you’ve got to remember those gifts were joint Christmas and birthday presents. How does Darth Vader like his Christmas turkey? On the dark side. Mary and Joseph – now they had a stable relationship. I bought my son a fridge for Christmas. I can’t wait to see his face light up when he opens it.
Toast to the New Year! -- Author Unknown Let this coming year be better than all the others. Vow to do some of the things you've always wanted to do but couldn't find the time. Call up a forgotten friend. Share a funny story with someone whose spirits are dragging. A good laugh can be very good medicine. Make a genuine effort to stay in closer touch with family and good friends. The surest way to have a friend is to be one. Find the time to be kind and thoughtful. Give a compliment. It's sure to give someone a badly needed lift. Think things through. Forgive an injustice. Listen more. Be kind. Apologize when you realize you are wrong. An apology never diminishes a person. It elevates him. Don't blow your own horn. If you've done something praiseworthy, someone will notice eventually. Lighten up. When you feel like blowing your top, ask yourself, "Will it matter in a week from today?" Laugh the loudest when the joke is on you. Don't discourage a beginner from trying something risky. Nothing ventured means nothing gained. Be optimistic. The can-do spirit is the fuel that makes things go. Don't abandon your old-fashioned principles. They never go out of style. When courage is needed, ask yourself, "If not me, who? If not now, when?" Walk tall, and smile more. You'll look 10 years younger. Don't be afraid to say, "I love you." Say it again. They are the sweetest words in the world. 9
A Voyage on the Stavangerfjord family and friends. 300 lbs. of prunes is part of it. He had a fruit ranch.
In December, 1947, at age 54, Ella Torp Hatlestad, who lived in Fredrikstad until age 5, and then emigrated to Minnesota, took a Norwegian-American line ship from NY to Oslo. Below are excerpts from her shipboard letters.
Towels and soap are scarce on shipboard. Said guests made off with both on way to Norway, as there is a shortage there and every scrap of soap is used.
Ella Was Seasick Yes, I have been sea-sick, but not Conny. He is having the time of his life! Playing Pinochle for nickels and winning of course. Three men play. We wives are all sick, but the men come to cabins to check on us. When the waves go down, we will all be fine.
The Captain’s Dinner (toward the end of the voyage)
The Captain’s Dinner was last night. The Dinner and Xmas tree afterwards were highlights of this trip I will never forget. It was so beautiful and so much fun! I think of Norwegians as a serious peoI am reading a big book called “Moby Dick or the White Whale.” I ple, but it is true they have more fun than we do, with their folk do not expect to finish it. It is 560 pages and about 10”x12” in size, dances in which everyone joins. but it takes my mind off my stomach and onto “Whales.” Someone About 8 of us secured a table early in the “Festal Salon” where a saw a whale a day or two ago. We make less than 400 miles per decorated tree stood in the middle. The dinner was bullion, a half day. We struck rough seas and 60% of the passengers were not at grapefruit, then Lutefisk and potatoes. Then Reindeer meat, potatable. I make it to table, but I don’t stay there. Today most everytoes, a vegetable, ice cream and Xmas cookies. No coffee, but one is getting better. Conny is a true sailor. Conny bought us a highball. Reindeer meat is delicious! Temperature is about 45 degrees, not cold, but enough wind to The dance started out just circling the Xmas tree with your partner. penetrate. It is considered a wonderful crossing for this time of There were 4 rings of people holding hands and skipping around year. the tree to accordion music, singing Norwegian Xmas songs. Oddities of Life Aboard Ship Then the ladies went left and the men went right—all down the I could have committed mayhem the first morning. The mess boy corridors, something like our snake dances after football. One of walked through the halls banging a brass dinner gong as big as our the ship’s officers guarded the stairway to D Deck, but the men just garbage can cover and very resonant—not musical either, at 7:30. swept him up, made him march with them, and when we ladies had gone about the length of the ship, we re-entered the Festal At 8:00 they play the musical chimes very sweetly. Salon, and were surprised to see a kidnapped 3 gold-stripe officer You have dressed and climbed under the beds a few times to haul sheepishly in the lineup--but when the girls took a partner, he got out your suitcases by that time. I have a nice blueprint (in my away. I found myself dancing with a University student in black mind) where the N. A. Line could install 3 shelves and 3 extra from 1st class. The ship’s orchestra (and are they good!) played hooks for clothing and make the small cabins so much more livauntil 1:00 am. ble. Everyone kicks about the size. Of course, we are used to All the fun is on 2nd class, and we put on our best, but no man homes and yards—all to ourselves. there wore formal clothes, so the general sprinkling of beautiful This ship is 30 years old and even the toilet paper holders, I think, gowns and black Tux’s showed most of 1st class had crashed our are the original ones. When the Norwegians make anything, they dance. make it to last, not remembering that in these days inventions are generally a better use of an old idea, and unless someone buys the Conny and I went to bed at 2 am. The “wild crowd” stayed up all new idea, it dies. I have seen many better contraptions for holding night dancing out on the poop deck! toilet paper, but none stronger, so apparently the Stavangerfjord ***** will live to a ripe old age. On this voyage, Princess Martha was one of the passengers, reFood and Drink turning to Norway after an operation; her husband the Prince of Norway and the three children came on board at Bergen to sail the Well, I tasted the “akavit.” Conny had some before lunch. It isn’t rest of the way to Oslo together. So many Norwegians turned out bad as it is sweet. to welcome the royals and the ship at the Oslo harbor that Ella We have had Turkey and goose and squabs about every day at the said, “I felt like I was the Queen.” It was her first (and only) homeSmorgasbord, as well as baked ham, baked or roast lamb and beef coming to Norway. and all the kinds of fish canned, all the gamut of sausages and cheeses. They seem to use vegetables for trimming only like rings The Stavangerfjord was a transatlantic steamship, built in 1917, 553’ long. She was used as a troop ship during WWII, refitted in of sweet red pepper filled with green peas (cold) to trim the platter. Cherries trim the hams and the hams are whole—about 25 1946 to hold 675 passengers. In all she carried half a million paspound ones. No ship feeds like the Stavangerfjord, they say, and I sengers across the Atlantic before being sold to scrap in 1964. believe it. --Betty Geilen. Family letters from Grandma Ella and Grandpa Conny Shortages After WWII One passenger is bringing $8,000 worth of food and clothing for his 10
From Us and Ours to You and Yours...
God Jul og an Godt Nytt År To All Our Friends! Ragnar and Synnøve Lund
God Jul og Godt Nytt År! To our friends near and far! Jorunn and Bill Scheiderich
A Blessed Christmas and
Wishing you All
New Year to All.
A Merry Christmas
God Jul! Jill K. Crooker
And a Happy New Year Aslaug and Andy Bruli
God Jul to all our Minnekirken Friends and Families! Kay and Ted Long
The wonder of Christmas
Onsker for an Velsignet Jul og Godt Nytt År Familien Dahl Kari, Lillian and Alf
Pastor, Lynn, and the “Illinois”
through the eyes of a child.
Schoenknechts pray that God’s
God Jul og Godt Nytår to our
Christmas peace and joy rests on our
friends near and far! The Kronborg-Mogil Family
loved ones, near and far.
BOOK REVIEW
Resilient Reformer: The Life and Thought of Martin Luther, by Timothy F. Lull and Derek R. Nelson Martin Luther was an energetic, creative, emotional, intelligent, dramatic person who led a dramatic life, and set off dramatic changes in northern European Christianity: the “Lutheran” stage of the Protestant Reformation. Lull and Nelson tell his story well in their narrative biography interwoven with history and theology, Resilient Reformer.
tricky ways of the world.
Luther’s speeches and sermons had popular appeal. People walked or rode in carts or on horseback to visit the small town of Wittenberg where monk/professor/preacher Luther was the principal intellectual power in a university which was growing and becoming more modern in outlook. Luther doubted that Aristotle was such an expert in every subject as many other professors then believed—in fact, with “typical overstatement,” he called Aristotle the “chief of all charlatans” who says “things which are so absurd that not even an ass or stone could remain silent about them!”
The number of persons living in the Luther home varied but was usually at least twenty. In addition to the six children the Luthers themselves had borne, there were also Katie’s aunt Lena, the six children of Luther’s dead sister, and some children of another sister. In addition, students frequently boarded at the Luther home . . .
In time after the Pope excommunicated Luther and he was released from his monk’s vows, Luther, saying marriage was God’s gift to men and women, married an ex-nun and soon headed a large active household.
At that time, people in the German principalities resented sending their money to Rome; Luther harnessed and encouraged these emerging nationalistic feelings. With his ability to rivet his listeners with close reasoning and colorful overstatements, on such topics as paying for indulgences to shorten the wait for heaven, soon churches broke away from the Catholic hierarchy and began calling themselves (somewhat to Luther’s horror) “Lutheran.” Sensing the need for structure in the new churches, he wrote important new church documents, such as catechisms giving basic instruction on the Christian faith. These books helped spread the Reformation, but Luther said he was only spreading the Word of the Lord: “I did nothing; the Word did everything.” Luther translated the Bible so everyone able to read German could study and, inspired by the Spirit, learn about God. His New Testament was published in 1522, and in 1534 he and other scholars finished a German translation of the Old. His printed Bibles and other scholarship gave voice not only to religion, but also to the German language. Seeing the need for better education, he advocated schools for all children, to study not only religion but also other subjects including Aesop’s Fables, for some familiarity with the
Enormous credit must be given to Katherine Luther for . . . their domestic life . . . His letters to her from his many times on the road are peppered with playful nicknames. Luther called her “the Empress,” “Dr. Luther,” “Lord Katie,” and even “Queen of the Pig Market.” Luther played the lute and enjoyed group singing at home. He wrote hymns which he suggested for worship in the new Lutheran churches. In a time of plague he wrote “A Mighty Fortress is Our God.” He lived that hymn: much of his life was spent under the worry of the punishment of death from temporal and church authorities he had questioned. In the town of Wittenburg, where he spent most of his life, he gave special sermons at Christmastime. Luther always loved to preach about the Magi from the East who came seeking the Christ Child . . . as a clue to how even the powerful and the wise may find salvation if they . . . follow the strange working of the gospel . . . when they set out . . . they find their way to Bethlehem, not Jerusalem, for in this humble town the child is born.
As we struggle with shopping lists and invitations, compounded by December's bad weather, it is good to be reminded that there are people in our lives who are worth this aggravation, and people to whom we are worth the same.—Donald E. Westlake 12
News from Norway Since Norway became independent in 1905, the country has had more than 30 foreign ministers. But until today, there was no female foreign minister. Ine Eriksen Søreide (41) is as-signed as Norway’s new foreign minister. Søreide (born 2 May 1976) is currently the Minister of Defence. In 2005, she was elected as a Member of the Storting for Oslo. Born in Lørenskog, from 1995 Eriksen Søreide studied law at the University of Tromsø, while at university she joined the Conservative Party and got involved in local politics. In 2000 she became a member of the Conservative Party Central Executive Committee and Chairman of the Young Conservatives of Norway.
at the submergence such carvings can therefore be dated according to the archaeologist. The carving is very difficult to detect and only emerges when the sunlight comes directly in from the side. A scientific publication of the discovery is scheduled for sometime later in 2017. © NTB Scanpix / Norway Today
Lonely Plant’s best-selling yearbook Best in Travel has selected Oslo as one of the ten best cities in the world to visit in 2018, citing the Norwegian capital’s “innovative architecture and unmissable museums alongside cool bars, bistros, and cafés." Lonely Planet further highlights urban regeneration projects such as the waterfront area Nearly 15 million overnight stays were registered during of Tjuvholmen, and writes that “Oslo’s charms have sailed the tourist season in Norway. Sogn og Fjordane were the under the Scandinavian radar for far too long, but this most popular destinations. For the fourth consecutive compact capital is rising fast”. The guide also notes that year, Norway’s tourism industry has broken a record. Ac- “showing off doesn’t really come naturally to Oslo: first cording to Statistics Norway, 14.9 million overnight stays and foremost, this is a city to live in, with parks to get lost were registered at Norwegian hotels, camping areas, and in, waterways to wander and fjords to kayak – not to hiking districts in summer. Because the number does not mention a coffee culture the equal of Stockholm or Copenhagen”. Oslo is one of five European cities in the top include the figures from cabin rentals, apartments or Airbnb, the real number is higher than the statistics show. ten, with Seville (Spain) taking the top spot. The other The Preikestolen was closed for tourists for three days in cities on the list are Detroit (USA), Canberra (Australia), Hamburg (Germany), Kaohsiung (Taiwan), Antwerp November for Tom Cruise and the film team behind the next Mission Impossible movie. The popular tourist des- (Belgium), Matera (Italy), San Juan (Puerto Rico) and Guatination at the Preikestolen in Forsand municipality in Ro- najuato (Mexico). POSTED BY: TOR INGAR OESTERUD 24. galand was completely closed from 7 to 9 November, Sta- OCTOBER 2017 vanger Aftenblad writes. The scenes at the Preikestolen American World Architecture News has released the list were supposed to be filmed in September, but when Tom of buildings competing for the annual award given to the Cruise injured his foot in London, the filming was postmost sustainable building. Among the finalists on the list poned. The sixth Mission Impossible film received just is the expansion of Oslo airport. “The extension of Oslo over 6.3 million kroner in support from the Norwegian airport has paid attention to design, innovation and susFilm Institute. (Stavanger Aftenblad) tainability’, it said in the jury’s statement. The jury also drew attention to the overall idea behind the project, Finding of a 10,000-year-old rock carving in Nordland is described as sensational. This summer, the retired geolo- which concerned not only sustainability in materials and gist Ingvar Lindahl reported about the founding of a new energy use, but also created an efficient facility. The project has received great attention worldwide, and is the rock carving in Efjorden in Nordland. Surveys show that first airport terminal to achieve the BREEAM ‘Excellent’ the carving, which depicts a boat, is probably between environmental certification, the second highest certifica10,000 to 11,000 years old. It is therefore probably the world’s oldest depiction of a boat. “It’s extremely huge, it tion possible. Oslo Airport has been nominated for a is a world sensation that will go into the history of science number of awards, and is one of the finalists for the in a very, very big way”, says archaeologist from the Uni- ‘World Architecture Fair’, and ‘Inside Awards’, which will versity of Tromsø, Jan Magne Fjerde to NRK. In the Stone be held in Berlin in November. Source: Avinor /Norway Today Age, the sea level was higher than today, and by looking 13
Minnekirken Memories of MAGNHILD FALAND Jill Crooker—My memories of Magnhild are many. She was a driving force with the Christmas Girls. She was a VERY hard worker for the church. I did purchase a pink hand knit sweater that she had made and sold at the Christmas Bazaar. I wore this sweater and loved it. I wore it a lot until I grew out of it. I spoke with my girlfriend Glenna Pearson about Magnhild's passing. Her Mother, Sylvia Dudley was a nurse and Magnhild was the nurse's aide and they worked together. I am not sure what hospital they worked at, perhaps it was Norwegian American Hospital but I cannot be sure. Betty Geilen—Magnhild was one of several nurses from Norway who volunteered, after WWII ended, to go to Germany to help in overcrowded and military hospitals there. Oh, the men were sick, she said, as she helped took care of former enemies of her country. Until her last few years, Magnhild had both a strong body and a strong voice and she was a leader at Minnekirken, with her strength committed to the church. Kay and Ted Long - Ted & I will always remember Magnhild for her wonderful sense of humor, for her love for Minnekirken, and for her great generosity. We began attending Minnekirken when Ted was learning Norwegian. I think that everyone was astonished that a nonNorwegian would attempt such a feat. Each week when we came to church, Magnhild would say sternly, but with a twinkle in her eye, “What you’re back again? I thought we would have scared you away by now!” Even after we joined the church and became board members, she continued to be “astonished” that we were still attending the church and participating in special events. Magnhild relished telling the story of the Julejentene’s Bazar and how it saved the church. It seems that in the 1950’s, the church received an electric bill totaling $59.00. Alas, there wasn’t enough money to pay it. Most of the congregation were recent immigrants and had no extra funds. After considerable deliberation, Magnhild and the other women realized they had a marketable talent; they could make special Norwegian Christmas cookies and other Norwegian foods to sell just before the holidays. Not to be outdone, the men and non-bakers plied saws and paint brushes, or needles and thread to make Norwegian-themed objects to sell at the same event. People began to donate bunaden, sweaters, and other things for sale or raffle. However, the big draw was always the cookies. One pastor was so astonished at the success of one of the early bazars, that he called the group of bakers the “Christmas Girls” or “Julejentene.” The name stuck. Over about 60 years, the Julejentene raised well more than half a million dollars to support the church. When I became the church’s Financial Secretary, I began to realize Magnhild’s great generosity. Not only did she and Edwin give regular donations each Sunday, and particularly large holiday gifts, but, often, Magnhild would accost me when I finished counting the offering and demand, “Did we have a good collection today?” At first, I would answer truthfully. If I said it was good, she would be glad; however, if I said it wasn’t very good, she would whip out her checkbook and write a generous check! Tempting as it was always to tell the truth, I often said the collection was “good” in order to avoid bankrupting the Faland family. Finally, on a personal note, I was especially blessed by Magnhild’s generosity. When I joined the Grieg Ladies Singing Society, I had no bunad. The Society furnished blouse, vest, and apron, but I needed bunad jewelry. One member of the group generously loaned me several pieces. After one event, Magnhild complimented me on the sølje I was wearing. I couldn’t take credit for what was not mine, and told her it was borrowed. A few weeks later Magnhild handed me a jewelry box, saying, “I don’t have any daughters or granddaughters; so I want you to have this because you do so much for the church.” Inside the box was a magnificent sølje! Every time I wear it, I thank God for having granted me the privilege of knowing Magnhild Faland. 14
Thomas and Lynn Sove Maxson—Tom: I first met Magnhild when I started going to Minnekirken. She was so friendly and made you feel welcome. My best memories center around Julejentenne’s Kumla (Kumpa , Klub, Raspaballer) Dinners. Growing up it was always a special treat for us when Grandpa Nels would make kumla for us. I always had a big appetite for it. So of course when I learned that Minnekirken had special dinners every winter, I would not miss. You could say that Magnhild was one of the front women of the group. She was not in the kitchen but welcoming folks, getting them seats and so forth. She was always interested in how many kumlas everyone ate. In fact she held a contest and the one who ate the most got a special, humorous prize. Well, I started winning and I think I was challenging her creativity. Every year she had to come up with a new prize. One year she called both Lynn and me up. A bit of a surprise because Lynn does not eat the stuff. Lynn calls them sinkers because they can weight your stomach down. She had a special prize for her, a padlock key. I got a plastic container with 2 kumla. But it was wrapped up tight with a chain and sealed with a big padlock. Lynn was delighted to have control over my big appetite. I miss the Kumla Dinners. However, I will miss Magnhild’s warm, bubbly smile more. Lynn: I have known her for many years, working hard for what she believed in and smiling. She always encouraged me in my work for the church or the Norwegian community. When I was Vice Pres. of Minnekirken with no Pres. nor pastor, she said it was a tough job but I could do it. During the month long art show at Minnekirken, she thought it was great that everyone brought so much to share of Norwegian art from Chicago. If there was a job to be done, she would encourage people to do it. She had a light side and could joke a lot and laugh. She sat behind Tom and me at church and a few times when I had my long hair down, she would tap me on the shoulder after church and say: "oh, I just felt like braiding your hair!" Pastor David Schoenknecht: Only since the Fall of 2015, when I came to serve The Norwegian Lutheran Memorial Church on Logan Square as pastor, have I known Magnhild and Edvin. But this church is affectionately called "Minnekirken" - Memorial Church - for a reason. It stands a testimony in brick and stained glass, in song and service, of "kjærlighet" - of love for God, for this close knit family of faith, and for extended families who lived and loved in the shadow of Minnekirken's soaring red steeple. Magnhild and Edvin found one another at Minnekirken and much of their lives were spent keeping Minnekirken strong, strong for their faith, strong for their family, strong like their love for one another. Ruth Kverndal—When I think of Magnhild, I remember a really good woman. She put her faith into action. She was kind and friendly. She was a stalwart support of her church. And she was a fine matriarch for her loved ones. My heart goes out to her husband and the whole family. Guds Fred være med hennes minne og dere alle sammen.
The 3 R’s by Lynn Sove Maxson Growing up the “3 Rs” were reading, writing and arithmetic. Never could understand the spelling. These things we learned at home but mainly the job fell on the hands of the schools and teachers. We were always taught at home to do our best at school. There were three other ” Rs “ that we learned at home which maybe we took for granted. These were expected 100% by our parents at all times. We wouldn’t dare not live by them. They were respect, responsibility and reliability. Respect was for all of God’s creatures and nature. We were educated in all phases of nature and learned to appreciate it. Responsibility was for all our jobs we had to do and also helping others who needed help. Reliability was how well we did our jobs and how fast we responded to others needs. Today we really should utilize all of the 6 R’s. The first 3 R’s appear to be taken over by technology today. Whereas the last 3 R’s appear to be lacking in today’s world! 15
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