Announcements for Sunday, Dec. 28
INSIDE: Young Youth Winter Break Play Date • No worship on New Year’s Eve
Click here to view and download our 2025 Christmas handout, highlighting many ministries at First and events taking place from now through early April.
Join us for worship!
Sunday Worship, Dec. 21
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, Dec. 31:
No worship on New Year’s Eve
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.
Office Closures
The office will be closed at the following times in the coming months…
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
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.
Caring Cards Ministry
This is a ministry of fellowship and service that meets monthly through April, and welcomes anyone who would like to join us. NEXT: Saturday, Jan. 10, 9am in the Fireside Rm. Led by Michelle Logan. If you know a member that would like to receive a card, please let the office know: office@firstlu.org.
Jazz Worship on Sunday, Jan. 11
Mark your calendars and make sure to join us for a special worship service of jazz liturgy on Sunday, Dec. 11, at both the 8am and 10:30am services, led by Jon Ailabouni.
Faith Alive! U Weekend Workshops
Join others for an afternoon of exploring, questioning, and learning about your faith. The Faith Alive! U Weekend Workshops takes place Jan. 11 from 11:45am–2:15pm, with lunch and childcare provided. RSVP at 1stlu.org/next to help us get a head count for the lunch.
Middle School Snow Tubing @ Whitetail Ridge
On Sunday, Jan 11, 11:30am–5pm, our middle school youth will eat lunch at church and then get on the bus to travel to Whitetail Ridge, in Sparta. Cost: $25/person. Questions? Connect with madalyn@firstlu.org.
Blood Drive
Monday, Jan. 12, 12:30-5:30pm. Every day ordinary people are saved by some pretty extraordinary people. People who give blood. Your donation could be the most valuable gift you ever give. Just ask anyone who’s ever received. Walk-ins welcome; appointments encouraged, schedule yours at 1stlu.org/blooddrive. Please bring a photo ID.
Wednesday Night Study Group
Pastor Stanton and Pastor Karyn continue to lead their Wednesday Night Study Group, which will restart again on Wednesday, Jan. 14, at 7pm in Fellowship Hall. They’ll be using Barbara Brown Taylor’s book An Altar in the World: A Geography of Faith to deepen and broaden the ways we encounter and connect with God. Make a New Year’s resolution to grow in your faith! RSVP at 1stlu.org/next.
Attention! Seeking Nominations
First is seeking leaders for the following positions listed to the right, to be elected at our next annual meeting, Sunday, Feb. 8. If you or a member you know is interested in serving, please talk to Pastor Stanton or complete a nomination insert which is available at the usher stand and will remain available through Jan. 18. The Vision and Leadership Team will compile a list of all nominations at their Jan. 20 meeting. That list will then be presented along with the annual report on January 25. Thanks for prayerfully considering leadership in our church.
Vision & Leadership: First Lutheran will elect two members to the Vision & Leadership Team at the annual meeting. One current member is willing to serve a second term, while another has completed their 2nd and final term. The V&L job description is available upon request in the church office.
First Teen Clothes Closet Steering Committee: The steering committee members oversee the running of the First Teen Clothes Closet; recruiting and overseeing volunteers, promoting the clothes closet, coordinating involvement in community events and the like. The steering committee meets once a month. Terms are 3 years.
Foundation Team: Participate in the continuing work of growing our Foundation and awarding grants each year. The Foundation Team meets once a quarter and is seeking two new members to be elected at the Annual Tailgate on Feb 8.
Sugar Creek Voting Members: Participate in guiding the future of our camp, Sugar Creek! The 2026 Sugar Creek annual meeting is scheduled for Feb. 22, at camp. Voting members are welcome to contribute their own stories and perspectives to the conversation amidst reports and planning for the upcoming year. Support your camp by offering your voice and vote.
Assembly Voting Members: Participate in guiding the future of our synod! The 2026 La Crosse Area Synod Assembly is scheduled for Saturday, June 6. The Pre Assembly Caucus is scheduled for April 19 at 3pm. An elected voting member will need to attend both meetings. It’s a great opportunity to be the church!
Sugar Creek Winter Fun Days
Sled, play, and cozy up with lunch and indoor activities, Sunday afternoons, Jan. 18 and Feb. 8. Snow or no, it’s a go! $10 a person, 4 and under free. RSVPs are helpful for planning: camp@sgrcreek.org.
Presiding Bishop Curry to speak on Martin Luther King Jr. Day @ Luther
The Rev. Yehiel Curry, Presiding Bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, will offer keynote remarks at Luther College’s 2026 Martin Luther King Jr. Day lecture on Monday, Jan. 19, in the Center for Faith and Life Main Hall. The day begins with Curry’s address at 10:30am, followed by an optional community lunch at noon for attendees, two sessions are planned for the afternoon at 1:15 p.m., a youth discussion with Curry, and a panel discussion with regional ELCA bishops for all others. The event is open to the public, and admission to the morning program and the afternoon break-out sessions are free. Lunch tickets for adults are $10, but free for youth who are registered for the youth session.
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, Jan. 23, FOR: Birth–12 are welcome (Birth–3 will be in the nursery, ages 4 and up in Fellowship).
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.
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.
Here’s What We Heard from You in the MAP
You believe First Lutheran is making a real difference. Over 94% of you agree or strongly agree that our congregation is making a positive impact in people’s lives. That’s a powerful affirmation of our shared ministry.
Participation builds belonging. About 90% say the more you participate, the more connected you feel. In other words, engagement grows community—and you feel it.
You speak proudly about your church. More than 75% say you enjoy telling others about what’s happening at First Lutheran. This reflects strong identity and shared mission.
Worship and ministry energize you. Nearly 87% of respondents say that participating in the life of the congregation energizes them and strengthens their faith.
You feel part of something bigger. Almost 90% express that being part of First means being part of something larger than themselves. This is a remarkable indicator of purpose and shared direction.
Community and cohesion matter deeply. About 80% describe First Lutheran as a cohesive community—a place where connections matter and relationships are strong.
You see yourselves as integral. More than 60% of you strongly (or very solidly) identify as an integral part of our congregation’s life and ministry.
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.
Annual Gaps and Needs Survey
It is time, once again, for the annual Gaps and Needs survey for the WI Balance of State. The Data Analysis committee would like help with distribution and filling out the survey by those that are currently homeless or at risk of becoming homeless. If you know of someone who is currently homeless or at risk, please direct them to and help them fill out this survey. For 2026, the consumer survey will be the only survey being conducted, and will be collected until February 1.
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.
Annual Tailgate and Appreciation Party!
All members are invited to attend First’s Annual Tailgate on Sunday, Feb. 8, at 11:45am. We will reflect on 2025 and look ahead to 2026, elect new Vision & Leadership Team, Clothes Closet steering committee members, Foundation members, along with Sugar Creek and Assembly delegates, and complete a variety of other business and cap it all off with appreciation of our volunteers! Save the date to be a part of the body of church at First! The annual report will be available to pick up and download on Sunday, Jan. 25.
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.
Co-lead our Community Garden
The Care for Creation team is looking for a volunteer co-leader for the church’s community garden. This garden grows produce in conjunction with the Kane St Garden in La Crosse, which provides to the community through the Hunger Task Force. We have one co-leader, and need another to help lead. Duties would include helping to decide what to grow, best ways to utilize the space, scheduling volunteers to water, weed, till, etc. If you have a strong interest in using God’s Creation to grow food for his people, contact the Care for Creation Team at 1stlu.org/next.
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. 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.
Stephen Ministry
If you know of someone who needs a caregiver, please speak with Pastor Karyn, or call the church office: 608.783.2236.
Cancellations Due to Inclement Weather
If bad weather ever makes you wonder whether your group is meeting, check our website, Facebook page, or update the office with your cell number and provider so that we can text you. The staff and leadership of First intend to ‘make the call’ by 5pm at the latest so everyone knows what to expect. Be safe this winter!
Sunday School
Sundays, Dec. 28 & Jan. 4
No Sunday School; resumes Sunday, Jan. 11
More info and registration: 1stlu.org/sunschool
Grade 2 Faith Alive Building Block: What’s Fair
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, Jan. 11: parents/guardians only
Sundays, Jan. 18 & 25: parents/guardians with children
Sunday, Feb. 1: Faith Building Block lifted up in worship
Confirmation
Sunday:
No Gr 6 & 7 Confirmation Classes; resumes Sunday, Jan. 11
Wednesday:
No Confirmation Small Groups; resumes Wednesday Jan. 7
More info and registration: 1stlu.org/confirm.
