Zion Lutheran

We will soon be introducing the new ELCA hymnal in Zion. (See the article on page 13 of this newsletter for more information.) I have been in the Church long enough to have used three different hymnals and now four with the new Evangelical Lutheran Worship book. We always seem to identify them by their color. I remember the old black book from our Augustana Synod days, the red book introduced in 1958, the green book introduced in 1978 and now the new cranberry red book.

Change can sometimes be hard for all of us but I am sure we will come to value this latest worship book. It contains some wonderful new resources and still has lots of our old familier favorites. I have attended a workshop introducing the book and look forward to its introduction in the near future. I commend it to you. As Psalm 100 reminds us, “Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth. Worship the Lord with gladness; come into his presence with singing.”

Pastor John

Dear Friends in Zion,

I want to say a word of thanks from Judy and I for all of your support and prayers and good wishes while we have been experiencing family health concerns. Our grand daughter, Helena, was born on August 24 with a congenital heart defect. Her parents are our son and daughter-in-law Aaron and Mary. Helena has now undergone two surgeries, the latest on December 7. I am happy to report that she has recovered well from her latest surgery and is gaining weight and doing those things babies are supposed to do at her age. She will have another heart surgery in about a year, with additional surgeries every 5 years until she is full grown. The doctors continue to assure us that she will be able to lead a normal life. Forgive me a little grandfatherly pride if I say that she is also cute as a bug’s ear.

About the time Helena was born, Judy was diagnosed with breast cancer. The doctors removed the cancer in September and found that it had not spread into the lymph nodes, which was good news. She received chemo therapy treatment which was completed in January. She tolerated it well but it did leave her tired. She begins radiation treatment in February. Treatments will be given five days a week for six weeks.

So many people have expressed their concern for our family and kept us in their prayers. Your support, prayers and encouragement have lifted us up in a difficult time. We are thankful to God for upholding us in His care and healing and to all of you in the congregation for your concern. God bless you all. We look forward to renewed health in the new year. Happy New Year to you all!

Pastor John Folkerds