Announcements for Sunday, Oct 12
INSIDE: High School Service Trip Info Meeting • High School Gathering @ Apple Orchard • Baskets of Belonging
High School Gathering
On Saturday, Oct. 12, from 11:45am–3pm (after the above info meeting) our high schoolers will gather at Ferguson’s Apple Orchard in Galesville for a day of autumn fun! Enjoy fun activities, fresh cider, and fellowship in God’s beautiful creation. Admission is $14/person for activities (food and apple picking are extra). We’ll meet in the narthex after church and head out together. Bring your friends, dress for the weather, and get ready for a cozy fall afternoon! Questions? Connect with megan@firstlu.org.
Join us for worship!
Sunday Worship, Oct. 12
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. 15
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.
Job Opening
First Lutheran Church has a flexible, tight-knit office culture that is looking for an Office Administrator who can provide warm hospitality to guests and members in addition to providing crucial support for its many ministries. Workday tasks vary from in-person, online and over-the-phone member interaction, to managing a database, proofing publications and working closely with the pastors and staff. This is a Monday through Friday, 9am–2:30pm position that is perfect for someone looking to make a difference while also earning regular income. Contact us for more information, including a formal job description, to see whether joining our church staff could be a fit for you.
Sunday Morning Bible Study
Sundays at 9:15am, in the Thomas Room
Open to all
Led by Madalyn Olson-Loomis
Join Madi Loomis between services on Sunday morning to engage in deeper conversations and discussions around the Narrative reading from the sermon and learn how to incorporate readings into your weekly schedule to expand your knowledge and understanding of the Bible.
Faith Webs
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! 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 be connected, go to the Faith Webs table in the narthex. Thank you for entering into the shared goal of raising and supporting our kids! Together we are building community!
High School Service Trip to Hazlet, NJ
When: July 19–25, 2026 (travel days TBD)
Where: Hazlet, NJ
FOR: High school youth
Info meeting: Oct. 12, 11:30am
From July 19–25, 2026 (travel days TBD) high school students will take part in a Home Repair Workcamp organized by Group Mission Trips. Participants will team up to assist residents in Hazlet by tackling essential repairs like porch and deck upkeep, painting, wheelchair ramp installation, and other critical maintenance. It’s an opportunity where teens can grow in community, stride in faith, and witness the difference that kindness in action can make. Together, we’ll build more than ramps—we’ll build connection, compassion and lasting memories. Attend the informational meeting on Sunday, Oct. 12, at 11:30am. If you have any questions, please reach out to Michelle Renkas. More info: 1stlu.org/next. Questions? Want to sign up? Contact megan@firstlu.org.
Baskets of Belonging
Baskets of Belonging is part of the coordinated approach to support people leaving homelessness by surrounding them with circles of care. The drive, taking place from Oct. 12–Nov. 16, is hosted by the Pathways Home Faith Action team in partnership with the La Crosse County and City of La Crosse's Pathways Home plan to address homelessness. First Lutheran is asked to collect 30–40 of each item listed below.
Sets of 4 glasses
Silverware sets (spoons, forks, butter knives)
In addition, the drive is asking every congregation to consider donating a few higher price items: pots/pans, mixing bowls, and towel sets. All items should be new or like-new. Questions? Connect with karyn@firstlu.org.
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.
Beyond the Bridge: a Solution to Homelessness
The Pathways Home team is excited to welcome to La Crosse the creators of the film Beyond the Bridge a Solution to Homelessness. The filmmakers will be joined by local community leaders to share a screening of the film and to discuss local solutions including the City of La Crosse and La Crosse County strategic plan to reach functional zero homelessness, Pathways Home. Join us at the Weber Cetner for the Performing Arts on Oct. 14, at 6pm. For more info visit our Facebook events page: Facebook.com/1stlu/events.
OWLs Potluck
The OWLs’ (our Older Wiser Lutherans at First, for anyone 55+) potluck for October will be a Halloween party, Wednesday, Oct. 15, at noon in the narthex. We will have a costume contest with a prize for the winner, followed by a fun selection of Halloween games. Bring your favorite fall dish to pass, wear your most creative costume, and come join the fun and fellowship.
Jazz Worship on Wednesday, Oct. 15
Mark your calendars and make sure to join us for a special worship service of jazz liturgy on Wednesday, Oct. 15, at the 6:15pm service, 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. 16. 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 on Thursday, Oct. 16, 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. 17, 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 2026 Sugar Creek Bible Camp and service trips. RSVP your child or sign up to volunteer at 1stlu.org/nightout.
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. 18, 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!
Middle School Hidden Trails Corn Maze
Oct. 19, 11:30am–2:30pm. Admission: $14/per person. Activities include four different mazes, large culvert slides, human hamster wheels, little duck races and many yard games! We will meet at church and leave as a group in the bus. Please let Madi know if you would like to join or if you have any questions by emailing madalyn@firstlu.org.
Advanced Directive Workshop
Did you know that Wisconsin is not a next-of-kin state for medical decision-making? If you reside in Wisconsin, designating a medical decision-maker is incredibly important, regardless of your age. Join this workshop on Sunday, Oct. 19, at 11:45am, and learn more about how to legally designate a medical decision-maker. We'll also talk about Advanced Directives: a lifelong conversation with yourself and your loved ones about what medical decisions you would want them to make for you in case you can't make them for yourself. We'll learn and explore together, in hopes of leaving feeling empowered. For anyone 18 and older. Lunch included.
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. 19. Butter Braids will be available at the church for pickup on the afternoon of Monday, Nov. 10. A portion of every sale is put in the seller's camp/trip account to defray costs.
Faith Webs Youth Registration Open
Youth participating in summer ministries (camp, service trips) in 2026 can sign up to be a part of a Faith Web TODAY! Head to the Faith Web table in the Narthex to learn more! Youth signup deadline is Sunday, Oct. 19. Questions? Connect with volunteer coordinator, Carla Stanton. More info on Faith Webs? Visit 1stlu.org/webs.
Strategic Plan and MAP
First Lutheran is partnering with Kairos & Associates to identify a few clear mission/ministry initiatives to guide our church for the next 1–5 years. Our consultant, Tim Johnson, will be working with our Strategic Planning Support Team and will help us listen well and focus our next steps. The congregational survey, the MAP—the Missional Assessment Profile—is the first opportunity to share your input. Your voice matters! This survey will go live on October 20 and will be available both online and on paper. Please keep this process in your prayers as we seek God’s direction for FLC’s future. Questions? Connect with Pastor Stanton: jason@firstlu.org.
Fall Festival
Save the date on your calendar for Saturday, Oct. 25, 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.
Youth Lead @ Minneapolis
WHEN: Saturday, Nov. 1, 9am–4pm
FOR: High school youth.
LED BY: Youth! Adults who equip and allow youth to lead! Powered by Peer Ministry Leadership.
THE GOAL: Every church will raise the bar in how they invite youth to be EQUIPPED, EMPOWERED and ALLOWED to lead.
Event starts at 9am in Minneapolis, so our group from First will leave from church around 6:15am. Questions? Connect with Megan Olson, High School Events Director / Peer Ministry Leader: megan@firstlu.org.
Sugar Creek Youth Retreats 2025-26
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! Learn more at sugarcreekbiblecamp.org.
November 1, 2025: Pretzels and Prayers – Twisting Our Hearts Toward God, Elementary Retreat (Grades 1-5)
November 7-8, 2025: Pizza and Identity – Discovering Who You Are, Slice by Slice, Middle School & High School Retreat (Grades 6-12)
February 6-7, 2026: Bagels and Belonging – Exploring Community and Inclusion, High School Retreat (Grades 9-12)
March 6-7, 2026: Cookies and Covenant – God’s promises and our response, Confirmation Retreat (Grades 6-10)
March 21, 2026: Subs and Service – Stacked High with Ways to Serve, Elementary Retreat (Grades 1-5)
Cloud of Witnesses: All Saints Sunday
We honor our brothers and sisters in Christ who have gone before us on All Saints Sunday, Nov. 2, 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.
Clothes Closet Current Needs
Clothes Closet Needs for Fall/Winter
The First Teen Clothes Closest is limiting donations to the following (only teen-style, clean, NEW or gently used). Donations can be placed in the baskets inside the main entryway. NO T-SHIRTS or JEANS, PLEASE.
hoodies
athletic pants
wallets
sunglasses (no scratches, please)
teen styled jewelry
teen styled winter coats
teen styled winter boots
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. 6). 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.
All-Ages Service Trip to Duluth
When: July 8–12, 2026
Where: Duluth, MN
FOR: Everyone... really and truly everyone is invited! (minors must be accompanied by an adult)
What is an All-Ages Service Trip? It is an opportunity for members of our congregation to experience serving side by side across all ages. When other families have gone on similar trips, the ages of participants were as young as 4 through upper 70s. We learn, serve and grow in faith together plus have a whole lot of fun. Attend the informational meeting on Sept. 28 in Room 204 and invite a friend! If you have any questions, please reach out to Michelle Renkas.
Middle School Service Trip to Milwaukee
July 12–17, 2026. With the help of Youthworks, our middle school youth will partner with food pantries, meal centers, local gardens and intergenerational care centers. In the evenings, they’ll explore the city a bit and maybe even have some beach time on Lake Michigan. Sign up during September for the trip, and for Faith Webs. The first 13 to sign up are guaranteed a spot. All subsequent registrations are subject to additional transportation capacity. More info: 1stlu.org/next. Questions? Want to sign up? Contact madalyn@firstlu.org.
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.
📚 Check Out the Church Bookstore! 📚
We have a rotating selection of books to inspire and deepen your faith! Each season we feature fresh titles covering a variety of topics, from spiritual growth and parenting, to Christian living, building blocks and current hot topics. Stop by regularly to explore new reads and find the perfect book to enrich your faith journey. Have a suggestion for a book to include? Email Carolyn at carolyn.wodele@gmail.com.
Sunday School
Sunday, Oct. 5
9:15am Sunday School
Sunday, Oct. 12
9:15am Sunday School Christmas Program Rehearsal
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. 5: Faith Building Block lifted up in worship
3-Year Old Faith Alive Building Block: Praying Together
Sunday, Oct. 12: parents/guardians only
Sundays, Oct. 19 & 26: parents/guardians with children
Sunday, Nov. 2: Faith Building Block lifted up in worship
Confirmation
Sunday:
9:15am Gr 6 & 7 Confirmation Classes - FS
Wednesday:
5:00pm Confest for Gr 8–9 @ Trinity Lutheran, Sparta
7:00pm Gr 10 Confirmation Small Groups
More info and registration: 1stlu.org/confirm.
