Announcements for Sunday, Dec. 14
INSIDE: Cookie Decorating • Giving Tree Gifts Due • Caroling & Parties • Christmas Program
Sunday School Christmas Worship!
It is a wonderful time of year and a great way for our kids to share their Christmas joy! Join us for the Sunday School Christmas program on Wednesday, Dec. 17, during 6:15pm worship.
Join us for worship!
Sunday Worship, Dec. 14
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 Christmas Program Worship, Dec. 17
6:15pm: live stream at 1stlu.org/live, and in-person. Nursery available.
Parents’ Night Out
Bring your children for an evening of fun with the middle and high school youth groups’ fundraiser! WHERE: at First Lutheran, Friday, Dec. 12, 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 schol students with 2026 Sugar Creek Bible Camp and service trips. RSVP your child or sign up to volunteer at 1stlu.org/nightout.
Bethlehem Event @ English Lutheran
Experience the sounds and smells of ancient Bethlehem at the time of Christ’s birth at English Lutheran Church in La Crosse. Much of the church turns into the village, and many of its members and others become its residents for “The Bethlehem Event.” Takes place Dec. 13 & 14. No admission fee; donations accepted. Reservations are required and fill quickly; learn more at 1stlu.org/next.
Cookie Decorating
Everyone is invited to meet in Fellowship Hall to decorate Christmas cookies Sunday, Dec. 14! The cookies will be handed out as gifts to the residents that we visit when the church goes caroling, and shared together after our Sunday School Christmas program (and they may even be snuck during the decorating!). There will be two shifts…
9:15–10:15am, for anyone high school age or older (and their Faith Webs!)
11:30am–noon, for anyone of any age, but especially for Sunday School and Confirmation students, their families and their Faith Webs who were busy rehearsing for the Christmas program between services!
Parents are asked to supervise and help their children decorate. See you there!
Sunday Morning Bible Study
Sundays at 9:15am, in the Thomas Room, starting Sunday, Sept. 14
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.
Christmas Flowers for the Sanctuary
If you would like to give a rose in honor or memory of loved ones to decorate for our Christmas Eve services, you may do so at 1stlu.org/nextsteps. Cost is $5 per rose. Order deadline is Sunday, Dec. 14.
Christmas Giving Tree
Help make Christmas special for area kids and families by buying NEW items for them. We are again partnering with La Crosse County Human Services, and have a list of people and items they or their social worker have requested. Make certain tags are attached to the outside of the wrapped gift. If you purchase gift cards, please wrap them in a box. Gifts should all be turned in to First Lutheran by Sunday, Dec. 14. Questions? Email office@firstlu.org.
Middle School Caroling & Christmas Party
Sunday, December 14, 2:30–4:30pm Party in Fireside Rm (snacks, games, Christmas music) in the Fireside Room. 4:30–6pm caroling! Questions? Connect with madalyn@firstlu.org.
High School Caroling & Christmas Party
Get ready to spread some Christmas cheer! Join us for an evening of caroling with the church, followed by a cozy Christmas party with snacks, games, and plenty of holiday fun. Bring your holiday spirit (and maybe a festive sweater!) as we sing, laugh, and celebrate the joy of the season together. December 14, Christmas party from 2–4:30pm at the house, caroling at 4:30–6pm. Come for all or come for some—whatever fits your schedule! Feel free to invite a friend! We can’t wait to celebrate the season together! If you have any questions, just let Megan know! Connect with megan@firstlu.org.
Christmas Caroling
Hop on a bus to take a short ride around Onalaska to visit and carol to those who would love some extra Christmas cheer! Sunday, Dec. 14: 4:30pm warm-up, 5pm caroling, 6pm return to church for potluck feast!
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.
OWLs
The OWLs Christmas party and potluck is an always exciting, highly regarded “social event of the season” and will take place on Wednesday, Dec. 17. at noon in the Fellowship Hall. There will be fantastic food, a gift exchange, singing, and fun games. Our gift exchange theme is “stars.” It can be an ornament, a coat pin, or anything star-related. If you have trouble finding a star, check out the Dollar Store in Holmen and Hobby Lobby. If you bring a gift, you will get a gift. Maximum value is $10. It’s OK if you don’t want to participate and just want to watch the fun. Wear your favorite Christmas sweater. The annual “Who is most ready for Christmas” contest will be held with an interesting prize. No need to sign up; just come if you can, bring a dish to pass, a few Christmas goodies to share, and your holiday spirit. Great fun will be had by all. Bring a friend. All are welcome.
Sunday School Christmas Program & Worship
It is a wonderful time of year and a great way for our kids to share their Christmas joy! Wednesday, Dec. 17, at 6:15pm worship.
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: Dec. 18. Led by Carla Stanton.
Middle School PJ Movie Night
Middle schoolers are invited for a movie and popcorn night on Friday, Dec. 19, at 7pm! You are welcome to bring pillows and blankets to get comfier if you would like! Please email the middle school event coordinator, Madalyn, (madalyn@firstlu.org) for any questions and to RSVP for this event!
Meal Train
Members of First Lutheran have started a Meal Train page for Becky Runde, who is going through cancer treatment at this time and her family would appreciate help with meals. What is Meal Train? When many friends provide support through a meal, Meal Train keeps everyone organized. Meal Train is a free meal calendar tool that makes planning meals among a wide group easy and less stressful. Sign up to help make a meal at 1stlu.org/next, and please keep Becky in your prayers.
Christmas Events Insert
The Christmas events insert that was included in the November newsletter can be downloaded at 1stlu.org/nextsteps.
ELCA Good Gifts
Wondering how to make a positive impact in the world right now? At elca.org/goodgifts you can choose from 50 charitable gifts to give in honor of friends and loved ones. Each of these gifts makes a real impact in the world, sharing the love of Christ — one goat, water well, or school uniform at a time. Start your holiday shopping now and order free, customized cards for each gift you give.
Red Kettle Bell Ringing
It's time to ring those bells! The Salvation Army of La Crosse Red Kettle Campaign lasts until Christmas Eve. The 2-hour shifts start at 10am through 8pm (Mon-Sat) with 19 kettle sites to choose from. We encourage festive wear, holiday music, and Christmas spirit. Sign up at registertoring.com or call the Salvation Army at 608-782-6126. Help us help others...the need is great. Make a difference!
Blue Christmas
Sunday, Dec. 21, 6:15pm. Please join us at First Lutheran for an hour of worship including music, prayers, candlelight, and reflection on what God is up to amidst our blue feelings around Christmas. The service will include time for a light meal and conversation beforehand, starting at 5:30pm.
Christmas at First
Christmas Eve worship times: 2pm, 4pm, 6pm, and 11pm (there will be no 6:15pm worship service that Wednesday). All will be candlelight, and all will be with Holy Communion. Christmas Day worship time: 10am, with Holy Communion.
Office Closures
The office will be closed at the following times in the coming months…
Closed at noon, Christmas Eve, Wednesday, Dec. 24
Closed Christmas day, Thursday, Dec. 25
Closed at noon, New Year’s eve, Wednesday, Dec. 31
Closed New Years day, Thursday, Jan. 1
Closed Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Monday, Jan. 19
Young Youth Dec Event!
Young Youth (1st-5th grade) are invited to a Winter Break Play Date in the Fellowship Hall on Monday, Dec. 29 from 10-11:30am. Save the date! Questions? Connect with our Young Youth Events Director, Katie Pierre: katie@firstlu.org.
No Worship New Years Eve
There will be no evening worship on New Years Eve, Wednesday, Dec. 31.
New Podcast: The Bible in a Year from Luther Seminary
If you’re looking for a way to get into the Bible in the new year, watch for the launch of a new Enter the Bible podcast in January. “The Bible in a Year from Luther Seminary” will guide you on a journey through the books of the Bible, providing insights on how Scripture can shape your life today. Learn more at enterthebible.org/the-bible-in-a-year-podcast.
Monday Night Community Meals
For many years, Trinity Lutheran Church on the north side of La Crosse has hosted a meal on Monday nights. First Lutheran helps 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: Jan. 26. Sign up at 1stlu.org/next.
Bible Camp Summer Staff Positions for 2026
Know a young adult looking for a meaningful summer job? Luther Park could be a great fit! Every year, Luther Park hires young adults to serve as counselors, program leaders, kitchen crew, maintenance staff, and day camp staff. These roles are more than just seasonal jobs — they are experiences that shape character, develop leadership, and help young adults grow into confident, capable adults. We also know that parents and mentors play a key role in helping their young adults choose work that is purposeful and practical. If this opportunity seems like it could be a good fit, we’d be grateful if you encourage them to check out summer employment with Luther Park Bible Camp in Chetek, WI.
Click here for application link.
Baptismal Preparation
The next baptism preparation session will be Saturday, Feb. 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, Feb. 1. Min. attendance required: 2 families.
Faith Webs
Those looking to connect with and support youth in their summer ministries can still do so! Learn more about Faith Webs at 1stlu.org/webs and by stopping at 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!
Snow Birds
Are you heading out? Please let us know if you'll be spending the winter somewhere else. If we know your seasonal address, we can keep in touch by sending you the monthly newsletter. Call or email the office with your winter address: 608.783.2236, office@firstlu.org.
Sugar Creek Youth Retreats 2026
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.
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)
Friends of the Warming Center
The Warming Center provides shelter for the unhoused from November through April. There are many ways to serve, from taking a shift in the shelter to providing a meal. Learn more and sign up to help at cclse.org/la-crosse-warming-center.
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 Coulee Golf Bowl on Thursday, Apr. 9, 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.
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. If you have any questions, please reach out to Michelle Renkas.
Middle School Service Trip to Milwaukee
When: July 12–17, 2026
Where: Milwaukee
For: Middle school youth
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.
High School Service Trip to Hazlet, NJ
When: July 19–25, 2026 (travel days TBD)
Where: Hazlet, NJ
For: High school youth
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. More info: 1stlu.org/next. Questions? Want to sign up? Contact megan@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, Dec. 14
9:15am Sunday School Program Dress Rehearsal - Sanctuary
Sunday, Dec. 21
9:15am Sunday School
More info and registration: 1stlu.org/sunschool
Confirmation
Sunday:
9:15am Gr 6 & 7 Confirmation Classes
Wednesday:
7:00pm Gr 8 & 9 Confirmation Small Groups
More info and registration: 1stlu.org/confirm.
