INSIDE: Coulee Region Hunger Walk • Lutheran Youth: Let’s Jump! • Faith Webs

Join us for worship!

Sunday, Oct. 13:

• 8am: live stream at 1stlu.org/live, and in-person. Nursery available.

• 10:30am: live stream at 1stlu.org/live, and in-person. Nursery available.

Wednesday Jazz Worship, Oct. 16:

Be sure to join us for a special worship service of jazz liturgy, led by Jon Ailabouni.

• 6:15pm: live stream at 1stlu.org/live, and in-person. Nursery available.

Hurricanes Helene and Milton

Hurricane Milton hit Florida as a powerful Category 3 hurricane, bringing storm surge, heavy rains, winds and tornadoes. Milton is one of the strongest hurricanes to hit the area in decades. At least four people have died, and millions are without electricity. This storm is particularly devastating because many communities were only beginning to recover from Hurricane Helene, which hit the Southeast just two weeks ago. Lutheran Disaster Response has strong relationships in the region and is already at work on the ground. Working alongside synods and other partners, Lutheran Disaster Response is prepared to expand to all impacted areas. We anticipate that our greatest impact will be reaching those in underserved and rural areas. By giving to Lutheran Disaster Response, you enable the ELCA to act quickly after disasters such as Hurricane Helene and Milton, and to remain for as long as the recovery takes. Support the response today at 1stlu.org/LDR.

Faith Webs

As stated when Faith Webs kicked off in September, we’re asking households of our congregation to support youth going to Bible camp and mission trips in the following ways…

• with your time

• with your prayers

• with your talents

• with your activities

• with some food (they’re kids after all!) and…

• with money (every child gets the support of $300 per household)

To that end, we will give you ideas every month for what you can do to strengthen the bond of your Faith Web! Just a few ideas for October are…

• Pray for one another

• Sit together at worship

• Send a card or invitation

Are you a youth who has yet to place your name in the Book of Faith Webs? Or a household that would like to be a supporter in a Faith Web? Today's the day! To be connected, go to the Faith Webs table in the narthex. There, a parent volunteer has a binder… the Book of Faith Webs. And don't just sign up for the kid that you know! Pay attention to where you're being drawn to… because the Spirit can be a beautiful matchmaker, and the Spirit will create those relationships between you.

For the $300 donation, you can donate all at once (in church or online at 1stlu.org/give), or a little bit each week, and even through the scrip program as you purchase gas and grocery cards. (A small percentage of the price of the scrip cards you purchase goes to the youth, but it adds up!) If you donate by check, please note WHO it is for, and WHAT ministry the youth is involved in.

Thank you for entering into the shared goal of raising and supporting our kids! We are building community! 

Meet Your Faith Web!

We’re hosting the first Faith Web introduction events on Sunday, Oct. 27, between services, in the sanctuary. Save the date!

It's Butter Braid Season!

Selling Butter Braids is a popular way for young people to earn money toward their summer camp and trip expenses. The order forms for Butter Braids are available in the church office. The deadline for returning your order forms, with the money, is Sunday, Oct. 27. Butter Braids will be available at the church for pickup on the afternoon of Monday, Nov. 11. A portion of every sale is put in the seller's camp/trip account to defray costs.

Coulee Region Hunger Walk

The Coulee Region Hunger Walk/Run/Bike is a nonprofit dedicated to raise funds, raise awareness and end hunger among our neighbors. This year's event will be THIS Sunday, Oct. 13, starting at 1:30pm at Myrick Park. Walk, run or bike with family and friends. If you prefer, you can participate virtually; just remember to register online. This is a fundraiser with 30% going to the Hunger Task Force, 30% to Wafer, and 40% to your preferred food nonprofit. You are encouraged to get sponsors, or form a team for some friendly competition. Register at couleeregionhungerwalk.org or in person the day of the event.

Lutheran Youth: Let’s Jump!

THIS Sunday, Oct. 13, 4–6pm, a synod-wide fellowship event at Jump Start Adventure Park that includes pizza, drink and JUMP SOCKS! For: Youth in grades 6-12. Cost: $15. Coordinated by La Crosse Area Synod LYLE committee. Questions? Contact our High School Events Director, Megan Olson: megan@firstlu.org. Sign up at 1stlu.org/next.

Bible Matters

Are you looking for the connection between scripture and everyday life? Or maybe a way to dig deeper into the gospel of Matthew? If so, join Pastor Karyn for a year-long journey through the lectionary (our schedule of readings) Monday evenings, 7–8pm, meeting in the narthex. Questions? Contact karyn@firstlu.org.

Synod Border Immersion Trip

The synod’s Migrant Justice Team is planning a trip to the US/Mexico Border Jan. 29—Feb. 4/5, 2025 for a border immersion facilitated by Border Servant Corps. Space is limited; applications are open now. This immersion program prioritizes accompaniment, relationships and first-hand educational experiences about border issues. The immersion is designed to expose participants to a comprehensive spectrum of views about immigration and the borderlands through:

• speaking with first-generation immigrants

• visiting local organizations working with immigrant populations

• meeting with government officials to learn about border protection & law enforcement

• learning about immigration law

• building an understanding of the economic policies and realities affecting people on the border and beyond

Visit borderservantcorps.org/border-education to learn more. Questions? Contact Pastor Dione at the synod office: pastordione@lacrosseareasynod.org.

OWLs Potluck

The OWLs potluck for October will be a Halloween costume party. We will have a costume contest with a prize for the winner. Costumes are optional; come and join the fun and fellowship even if you don’t dress up. Bring your favorite fall dish to pass. This not-to-be-missed event is Wednesday, Oct. 16, at noon in the Narthex.

Jazz Worship this Wednesday, Oct. 16

Mark your calendars and be sure to join us for a special worship service of jazz liturgy on Wednesday, Oct. 16, at 6:15pm, led by Jon Ailabouni.

Grief Support Group

Carrying on after the death of a loved one can be difficult and lonely. Join with others who listen and care for each other. Every third Thursday: 10am in the Upper Room. NEXT: Oct. 17. Led by Carla Stanton.

New-Member Social

By choosing to become a member, individuals and families commit to being part of a shared mission. People who would like to become members of First Lutheran are invited to a social at David Reay’s on Thursday, Oct. 17, 6pm, where you will get to know more about First and the staff in a relaxed atmosphere. To register your family or ask questions, call our church office at 608.783.2236 or email office@firstlu.org.

Parents’ Night Out

Bring your children for an evening of fun with the middle and high school youth groups’ fundraiser! WHERE: at First Lutheran, NEXT: Friday, Oct. 18, FOR: Birth–12 are welcome (Birth–3 will be in the nursery, ages 4 and up in Fellowship Hall)

• Registration from 4:45pm-5:30pm

• Followed by dinner and activities till 8pm (parents can pick up early if needed)

COST: Monetary donations will assist the middle and high school students with camps and trips next summer. RSVP your child or sign up to volunteer at 1stlu.org/nightout, by Wednesday, Oct. 16.

Volunteer Work Weekend @ First

Who says the Sunshine Team has to have all the fun! Everyone is invited to help with fall cleaning at First Lutheran on Saturday, Oct. 19, at 9am. Great opportunity for youth needing volunteer hours! Great opportunity for all to make First look nice as we look forward to the upcoming holiday season! Refreshments are supplied to replenish your reserves!

Respectful Conversations: Keeping Election Talks Peaceful

Wednesday, Oct. 23, 5:30-7pm. Politics is often considered a taboo subject, but it’s hard to avoid talking about the upcoming presidential election. Family, friends, co-workers and neighbors might have strong opinions and might be divided on important issues. All are invited to this free panel discussion to learn ways to engage in respectful and productive conversations. We’ll share insights and strategies for talking about election-related topics with civility and understanding.

Specifically, we’ll explore:

•   Suggestions for facilitating respectful political discussions.

•   How to have informed and fact-based conversations.

•   The role of social media in shaping election discussions.

•   Engaging diverse communities in meaningful dialogue.

Panelists: Richard Kyte, Jennifer Shilling, Walfsty Pierre, Barb Kruse and Michael Weldon, OFM. More info and reg: fsc.retreatportal.com

Fall Festival

Save the date on your calendar for Saturday, Oct. 26, 2–4pm, and join us here at First for an afternoon of fall activities and trunk-or-treating! Sign up to help prep and with activities at the event at 1stlu.org/next.

Join Faith-based Leaders to Learn About Dementia

• Wednesday Oct. 30, 9–10am, Black River Beach Neighborhood Center, 1433 Rose St., La Crosse

• Wednesday Nov. 6, 12:30-1:30pm, American Legion Post 336, 731 Sandlake Rd., Onalaska

Each session includes the same information and complimentary refreshments. Nearly 7 million Americans are affected by Alzheimer’s Disease and related dementias and more than 11 million people provide unpaid care. Here in La Crosse County, we are not untouched by the prevalence.  By 2040, there will be 4,000 people living at home or with family (not in facility-based care). And many of these families are part of your faith communities. Join other faith-based leaders to learn about dementia and awareness of local resources and opportunities. Register at 608-785-5700 or adrc@lacrossecounty.org

Pastor Appreciation Month

October is Pastor Appreciation Month. Don't miss the chance to thank our amazing pastors for all the ways they inspire and support us!

Cloud of Witnesses: All Saints Sunday

We honor our brothers and sisters in Christ who have gone before us on All Saints Day, Friday, Nov. 1, at 12:15pm, and on All Saints Sunday, Nov. 3, at 8am and 10:30am. All services will be in-person and live streamed at 1stlu.org/live.

All Saints Day has long been a day when the church gives thanks for all the saints, the beloved, who have died, especially in the past year. In the coming weeks, we will ask for photographs of your beloved dead so that we can be surrounded by their witness at All Saints worship. These pictures can be sent electronically (to office@firstlu.org) or brought in. They will be printed as 4X6, so resolution should be such that they can be printed well from what you submit. If your loved one was a member of our congregation and died this past year, you will receive a letter with a special request. All Saints Day isn’t only about those who have died, but also about those who have been newly baptized. If your child was baptized this past year, you also will receive a special request. Please note, we will continue to use the photos that were submitted in previous years, so no need to resend those photos.

Sugar Creek Youth Retreats 2024-25

Retreats are one of the best ways to build relationships among youth, adult leaders and the wider community. Sugar Creek retreats allow you to show up and be with your age group, knowing that you can enjoy all of the fun and activities. Save these dates for your calendar now! And NEW this season: One retreat is FREE for 2024 summer campers!

• November 2: Hallowed Be Your Name Elementary Retreat (Grades 1-5)

• February 7–8: Your Kingdom Come High School Retreat (Grades 9-12)

• March 7–8: As it is in Heaven Confirmation Retreat (Grades 6-10)

• April 26: Daily Bread Elementary Retreat (Grades 1-5)

First Sunday High School Gathering

NEXT: Sunday, Nov. 3, 11:30am(ish). ALSO: Parents/guardians take turns providing the meal each month; serving and cleaning up. Sign up for just one of the months and we'll be set for the year! Sign up at 1stlu.org/next.

Election Day of Prayer

This year, on Election Day, Tuesday, Nov. 5, in answer to the call to fear, love and trust God above all things, First is calling everyone to practice our faith and citizenship by praying together on Election Day.

1. First seeks to pray every hour for a Spirit-led election process. Go to 1stlu.org/next to sign up for any given hour, but it is not expected that you would pray for the whole hour.

2. First will worship together, in-person and live streamed, at 6:15pm. This will be a short Holden Evening Prayer service centered around a specific scripture and include some songs and a reflection. Step away from worry and stress and step into God’s peace. 

Bible Readers Deep Dive: Psalms

Join Pastor Stanton for an online study of the Psalms! Life consists of 1) seasons of well-being, 2) seasons of hurt and 3) moments of surprise when we are overwhelmed with the new gifts of God. The Psalms—more than any other part of the Bible—are able to accompany us through all the seasons and moments! Each weekday, Pastor Stanton posts a 5-10 minute deep dive into the Psalms. Find it at: FirstLutheranOnalaska.org, facebook.com/1stlu and youtube.com/1stlu.

Free Clean Fill

Approximately 20 yards of sand and pea gravel, available behind the church house. Take as much as you like. Must pick up. Questions? Contact our building and grounds manager, Dan, at dan@firstlu.org or by calling the office at 608.783.2236.

Volunteer Opp: Road to Bethlehem

Road to Bethlehem is an interactive drive-through live nativity at Sugar Creek Bible Camp held on the first Saturday of December (this year, Dec. 7). After, guests are invited into the Manna Center for hot chocolate and Advent-themed activities. Sugar Creek is looking for 6 congregations or families to adopt a post on the nativity trail, with 2–8 helpers for each station. You'll receive a script, props, costumes, a heat source and a few live animals! You provide the people and bring back great photos to share your adventure! Have old Christmas pageant costumes? Sugar Creek is seeking donations of gently used costumes for events like Road to Bethlehem. Interested? Contact Sugar Creek at 608.734.3113 / camp@sgrcreek.org.

Baptismal Preparation

The next baptism preparation session will be Saturday, Dec. 7, at 10am in the narthex for anyone who is considering or has scheduled a baptism. To register or ask questions call the church office at 608.783.3326 by Sunday, Dec. 1. Min. attendance required: 2 families. 

Monday Night Community Meals

For many years, Trinity Lutheran Church on the northside of La Crosse has hosted a meal on Monday nights. First Lutheran has agreed to help with this important community ministry, by preparing a meal, serving the food and cleaning up. We need people to plan and prepare the meal to feed 150-200 people, and folks to serve the meal (5-6pm) and help with cleanup. Meal prep can be done at your convenience. Many times people prepare the main course a week ahead, freeze it and reheat it. Food for the meal can be gotten at no charge from the Hunger Task Force in La Crosse. NEXT DATE: Dec. 9. Sign up at 1stlu.org/next.

Make Worship Happen!

Worship assistants make worship happen! Usher, read, bake bread, serve communion, lead projection and more. To assist with Sunday worship sign up at 1stlu.org/assistSUN.

Want to Volunteer? Need help?

Causeway Caregivers serves elderly and disabled adults in La Crosse County by providing volunteer services, without charge, to those in need. Tasks include raking leaves, grocery shopping, doing errands and helping after a snowfall. Would you like to be a Causeway Caregivers volunteer? Do you need a volunteer? Contact Causeway Caregivers at 608-775-9999.

Keep Up with Changes: Update Your Contact Info

Make sure the office has your current contact info, including current address, mobile number(s), carrier info (for reminders by text), and email(s). Members can make these changes on their own at our online directory: 1stlu.org/directory. Or you can send them to office@firstlu.org.

Sunday School

• Sunday, Oct. 13

  • 9:15am Sunday School, Christmas Program Rehearsal - Choir Rm

• Sunday, Oct. 20

  • 9:15am Sunday School

More info and registration: 1stlu.org/sunschool

Grade 3 Faith Alive Building Block: The Bible

Throughout the year, each age group will have a special “Faith Building Block” session in which parents or special adults are asked to attend class with their child on Sundays at 9:15am (in Fellowship Hall), sharing in conversation and growing together in faith. Most sessions last for three weeks, and afterward, children will have a presence in worship in celebration of the Faith Building Block they learned about.

• Sunday, Oct. 13: Faith Building Block lifted up in worship

3-Year Old Faith Building Block: Praying Together

• Sunday, Oct. 13: parents/guardians only

• Sundays, Oct. 20 & 27: parents/guardians with children

• Sunday, Nov. 3: Faith Building Block lifted up in worship

Confirmation

• Sunday, Oct. 13:

  • 9:15am Gr 6 & 7 Confirmation Classes First Day - FS

• Wednesday, Oct. 16:

  • Deadline for Gr 10 Faith Story Videos

  • 5:05pm Confirmation Class - FS

  • 7:00pm Gr 8–10 Small Groups

More info and registration: 1stlu.org/confirm.