Announcements for Epiphany Sunday, Jan. 11
INSIDE: Faith Alive! U • Middle School Tubing • Screening of 1946
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 TODAY at 1stlu.org/next to help us get a head count for the lunch.
Join us for worship!
Sunday Worship, Jan. 11:
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, Jan. 14:
6:15pm: live stream at 1stlu.org/live, and in-person. Nursery available.
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: THIS 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.
Invitation to Change Lives with a Visitation Pastor
At our best, First Lutheran would give all members the attention they deserve, to include homebound members in need of pastoral visits. Currently, our pastors do not have the capacity to offer the amount of attention these members need. A part-time Visitation Pastor would hold more members closer to their primary source of strength and peace. We invite you to join us in prayerfully considering an increase to your giving in 2026 so we can contribute $10,000 to hiring a visitation pastor to visit homebound members. Return your statement of intent at 1stlu.org/intent by Monday, Feb. 16; if we receive 200 intent cards by this date we will receive a challenge gift!
Jazz Worship on Sunday, Jan. 11
Mark your calendars and make sure to join us for a special worship service of jazz liturgy THIS 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 THIS Sunday, Jan. 11 from 11:45am–2:15pm, with lunch and childcare provided. RSVP TODAY at 1stlu.org/next to help us get a head count for the lunch.
Each workshop will be offered once and will be 75 minutes long. There will be a large group opening and closing. Lunch will be at 11:45am, large group session at 12:15pm, and final prayer and song at 2:15pm.
Jon Ailabouni will offer a workshop on improvisation and our faith life.
Mary Ann Narveson will offer a workshop that explores an image used by God of a potter, clay and imperfection.
Elementary aged kids will participate in a PNO-like event led by Parents’ Night Out leaders.
Middle school youth will join us for lunch and then head out to Whitetail Ridge for a day of snow tubing.
Pastor Stanton and Pastor Karyn will be looking at how the evolution of Scripture and the reality of different translations can be both helpful and harmful.
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, 12–5pm. 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.
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.
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.
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: Jan. 15. Led by Carla Stanton.
Screening of 1946
1946 is a feature documentary that follows the story of tireless researchers who trace the origins of the anti-gay movement among Christians to a grave mistranslation of the Bible in 1946. It chronicles the discovery of never-before-seen archives at Yale University which unveil astonishing new revelations, and casts significant doubt on any biblical basis for LGBTQIA+ prejudice. Featuring commentary from prominent scholars as well as opposing pastors, including the personal stories of the film’s creators, 1946 is at once challenging, enlightening, and inspiring. First Lutheran’s Reconciling in Christ team will be hosting a dinner and screening of this important documentary on Thursday, Jan. 15 from 6-9pm. RSVP TODAY at 1stlu.org/next to help us get a head count in advance.
Faith Webs Winter Game Day
All current Faith Webs are invited to get together with their households to have fun, enjoy lunch and each other’s company over a couple of games, hosted here at First, on Sunday, Jan. 18 after the second service in Fellowship Hall.
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!
Attention! Seeking Nominations
First is seeking leaders for the following positions listed below, 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 available 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.
Young Youth Bingo and Board Games
Looking for an exciting way to spend your day off of school? K–5th graders are invited to join for Bingo and board games! It’s a thrilling time of fun, prizes, and snacks spent with other First Lu Young Youth friends! Monday, Jan. 19, 10–11:30am in Fellowship Hall. More info: contact katie@firstlu.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.
Office Closed Monday, Jan. 19
The office will be closed on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Monday, Jan. 19.
OWLs
The OWLs’ (our Older Wiser Lutherans at First, for anyone 55+) January potluck will be Wednesday, Jan. 21, at noon in the Fellowship Hall. For the program Pastor Karyn will be talk about and show photos from her trip to Kenya last year. Come for the food, fellowship and hear about her amazing adventures. Questions? Reach out to volunteer coordinator, Brian, at owls@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, 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.
Sign Up for Flowers for 2026
The sign-up sheets for the 2026 flowers are on the bulletin board. If you would like to honor the memory of a loved one, check the bulletin board and sign up for an open week of your choice. You can also contact the church office (office@firstlu.org / 608.783.2236) to inquire about openings.
Calling all snapshots from 2025!
We’re looking for photos & videos from 2025: weddings, baptisms, Christmas program, and ALL OTHER special events and ministries. Help us to collect and remember all the events from this past year! Email them to andy@firstlu.org. Thanks!
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.
Sugar Creek Summer Reg Now Open
Sugar Creek offers 17 unique and powerful summer camp programs, plus retreat ministries for youth in elementary school, middle school and high school – and adults and families! Located on 660 acres in the bluffs and valleys of southwestern Wisconsin. Come learn, relax, encounter Christ, and have fun at Sugar Creek! Explore sugarcreekbiblecamp.org for more information about next summer.
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.
Christ’s Love in Action for High School
High schoolers: let’s spread kindness this Valentine’s Day! Join together on Sunday, Feb 8 at 11:30am as we create heartfelt cards for nursing home residents and those who are homebound. It’s a simple way to brighten someone’s day and remind them they are loved. All supplies and lunch will be provided—just bring your creativity and a caring heart! Friends are welcome too. Let’s make a big impact with small acts of love! Questions? Connect with Megan Olson, megan@firstlu.org.
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)
Discipleship Matters
Winter Zoom Classes: Thursdays, Feb. 5–26. COST: $35 each, or $60 for both
The Who, What, Where, When, Why, and How of Prayer: 5:30pm with Rev. Kathy Ingbritsen
What is preaching?: 7:15pm with Rev. Nile Sandeen
Learn more and register at 1stlu.org/next.
Winter Choir Festival
Join us for an afternoon of joyful music! Sunday, Feb. 22, 4pm, at Trinity Lutheran Church, 1010 Sill Street, La Crosse. Come hear the synod's finest choirs as they each sing one song, and then joint music. ADMISSION IS FREE! Presented by: La Crosse Area Synod. More info: Reverend Phillip Waselik & Trevor Dupej pastorphil@trinitylutheranlax.org or trevor@englishlutheran.org.
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.
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, Jan. 11
9:15am Sunday School
Sunday, Jan. 18
9:15am Sunday School
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:
9:15am Gr 6 & 7 Confirmation Classes - Fireside Rm
Wednesday:
7:00pm Gr 8 & 9 Confirmation Small Groups
More info and registration: 1stlu.org/confirm.
