Announcements for Easter Sunday, Apr. 5
INSIDE: Easter Sunday • New-Member Social
Join us for Easter worship!
CLICK HERE to view and download the PDF version of our Easter handout.
Join us for Easter!
Faith Story Dinner Theater, Saturday, Apr. 4, at 5:30pm. Reserve your seat at 1stlu.org/next.
9am Easter decorating.
Easter Sunday, Apr. 5
Wednesday, Apr. 8:
6:15pm: live stream at 1stlu.org/live, and in-person. Nursery available.
The office will be closed all day Monday, Apr. 6.
Support Crisis Response in the Middle East
The news from the Middle East is heavy and unrelenting, marked by escalating conflict and devastating humanitarian consequences. The costs, as Presiding Bishop Yehiel Curry has stated, “will be borne by those least able to avoid it — children, families, and those without the means to flee. Its deadly toll has been, and will continue to be, paid with the lives of our neighbors, including our siblings in Christ in the Middle East.”
These are not just headlines — they are the stories of families like yours, who deserve safety, security, and the chance to rebuild their lives. More than 1 million people are displaced in Lebanon alone, and many are sleeping in the streets because they have nowhere else to go.
Lutheran Disaster Response is working with our companions on the ground, including the Middle East Council of Churches, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land, and the Lutheran World Federation, to provide critical assistance
Focus Forward Update
First Lutheran is moving from a season of listening into focused action. Mission and Ministry Initiatives are being refined and shared through Cottage Meetings and leadership gatherings this winter and spring. Members will soon be invited to help shape and launch this work, with broader participation opportunities coming this fall. Learn more and stay connected at the Focus Forward page on our website: 1stlu.org/focusforward.
Coffee with Pastor Karyn
Coffee with Pastor Karyn is open to all and meets at 7am each Wednesday in the narthex. See you there! Questions? Contact karyn@firstlu.org.
High School Group: WINGS
WINGS (Walking In New Growth & Service) is our post-confirmation high school youth group for students in grades 10–12. WINGS is a space where students deepen their relationship with Christ, wrestle with real-life questions, build friendships, and discover what it means to live out their faith in everyday life. WINGS is a place to belong, to lead, and to take the next step in faith as young adults preparing to fly into the world. Meeting select Wednesdays, March–June, in the Mary Room. NEXT: Apr. 8, 7–8pm. Questions? Connect with megan@firstlu.org.
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.
Discipleship Matters: Spring Sessions
Thursdays, Apr. 9, 16, 23, and 30. All Classes are In-Person at Good Shepherd Lutheran, 4141 Mormon Coulee Rd, La Crosse. COST: $35 per class / $60 for both. Register at 1stlu.org/discipleship.
The Practice of Preaching, by Pastor Meg Hoversten, 5:30–6:45pm (Preaching the Gospels offered in February is a required prerequisite).
Theological Perspectives, 7:15–8:30pm
Apr. 9: Introduction – Bishop Felix Malpica
Apr. 16: Womanism / Queer Theology - Lizzy Hoversten & Rev. Kathyrn Thompson
Apr. 25: Liberation Theology – Gregg Attleson
Apr. 30: Eye toward Environment - Rev. Ben Morris
RESCHEDULED: Palm Sunday Breakfast Fundraiser
Due to emergency repairs taking place in the Fellowship Hall kitchen, the Palm Sunday Breakfast has been rescheduled to Sunday, Apr. 12. Fundraiser for youth going on mission trips and to Bible camp. No coffee hour, Sunday School, or Confirmation between services. Breakfast will be served 9-10:30am. Food donations are needed, and youth can raise funds by working at the breakfast; sign up for both at 1stlu.org/next.
High School: Easter/Spring Party
High schoolers! On Sunday, Apr. 12, 11:30am–2:30pm, celebrate the season of sunshine, flowers, and fun! Join us for a Spring Party full of games, food, and time to hang out with friends. We’ll have outdoor activities (weather permitting), snacks, and plenty of ways to enjoy the fresh air and good company! Bring a friend and come ready for laughter, community, and a great time together! Questions? Connect High School Events Director, Megan Olson: megan@firstlu.org.
OWLs Fly to Yesterday’s Youth
The OWLs (our Older Wiser Lutherans at First, for anyone 55+) will fly to Sugar Creek Bible Camp for their Yesterday’s Youth event. The morning program will be a presentation on Scandinavian art and literature presented by Susan Brantley, widely recognized for her expertise in 19th‑century Scandinavian literature, Swedish modernism, and major Nordic authors. After a delicious lunch we will be entertained by the Guthries, a driftless duo who sings both the timeless and new. DATE: Monday Apr. 13, leaving church at 8:15am. COST: $15/person (covers lunch and goodies at coffee time). If you are interested in joining this fun day out, RSVP to volunteer coordinator Brian Narveson: 630-816-5917 or owls@firstlu.org.
The OWL’s April potluck will feature the second half of the Haygood’s show, the number 1 show in Branson, Missouri. DATE:Wednesday, April 15, at noon, in Fellowship Hall. Come as you are, bring a dish to pass and enjoy some great food, fellowship and entertainment.
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. New for 2026: Cookie bakers! Help bake a batch of 4 dozen cookies! NEXT: Apr. 13. Sign up at 1stlu.org/next.
Wednesday Night Study Group
Pastor Stanton and Pastor Karyn continue to lead their Wednesday Night Study Group, which will renew again on Wednesday, Apr. 15, 7pm in Fellowship Hall. The class will start fresh with Faith and Civic Life Social Statement, a theologically grounded document from the ELCA that guides Lutherans in civic engagement, aiming to help shape conscience and inform faithful action in public life. This study will run for six weeks.
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, Apr. 17, 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.
Volunteer Work Weekend @ First
Who says the Sunshine Team has to have all the fun! Everyone is invited to help with spring cleaning at First Lutheran on Saturday, Apr. 18, at 9am. Great opportunity for youth needing volunteer hours! Great opportunity for all to make First look nice! Refreshments are supplied to replenish your reserves!
Caring Cards
A ministry of fellowship and service that welcomes anyone who would like to join. NEXT: Saturday, Apr. 18, 9–11am, Fireside Rm. If you know a member that would like to receive a card, please let the office know. Questions? Connect with Michelle Logan.
Be a Part of the Synod’s Women of the ELCA
Do you have an interest in being part of the Synod level of the Women of the ELCA? If you are interested and/or would like to know more about the positions, contact JoAnn Salava at jams@mwt.net or Mona Van Riper at monavanriper@gmail.com. Our spring convention will be on Saturday, Apr. 18, at Coon Valley Lutheran.
Eco-Faith Summit: From Fear to Courage
When: April 18
Where: Duluth, MN
Cost: $30 (Ages 30 & Under: free)
Join people of faith from across the Upper Midwest for a day of inspiration and action in-person or online. Moving from the gloom of the tomb to the courage of the Resurrection, this summit features keynote speakers, hands-on action stations, and community exhibits. Childcare is FREE and available for children ages 3-5th grade and will have Creation Care programming throughout the day. Register here.
Faith Webs Spring Game Day!
All current Faith Webs are invited to get together with their households on Sunday, April 19, at 11:45 am to have fun, enjoy lunch and each other’s company over a couple of games, hosted here at First, after the second service in Fellowship Hall. Questions? Connect with volunteer coordinator, Carla Stanton.
Wartburg Wind Ensemble Concert
Sunday, Apr. 19, 7:30pm at First Lutheran. Free and open to the public. Freewill donations will be accepted to support scholarship and future tours.
Jazz Worship on Wednesday, Apr. 22
Mark your calendars and make sure to join us for a special worship service of jazz liturgy on Wednesday, Apr. 22, 6:15pm, led by Jon Ailabouni.
Neighbors Day
You may have already heard it’s that time of year: Neighbors Day! Spring yard cleanup is a chore many of us take for granted. Every year, hundreds of community members help La Crosse residents complete yard projects they can no longer do themselves. Join Habitat for Humanity on Saturday, Apr. 25 from 7:30am–1pm. New this year: instead of an afternoon shift, everyone heads to The Nature Place for a community lunch in the park to collectively celebrate our hard work! Registration includes lunch and a light breakfast. Learn more and sign up at habitatlacrosse.org/neighborsday.
Cottage Meeting
As a part of stewardship for the upcoming year, the congregation is invited to a cottage meeting after the second service on Sunday, Apr. 26, in the narthex.
What do you already love about First Lutheran?
What are our greatest opportunities as a church?
Where could we direct our generosity and energy in the future?
The leadership of First Lutheran want to hear your ideas about where God may be calling us in 2026 and beyond. Lunch will be provided. Come ready to talk about your ideas!
Rescheduled: Young Youth Picnic & Painting
NEW DATE! Sunday, Apr. 26, 11:30am–1pm, Fellowship Hall. Young Youth is a group for children in grades K–5. Kids should bring a sack lunch to eat for the “picnic” then we will do a canvas painting tutorial! So materials can be ordered in advanced, kids need to be signed up by Apr. 19. Questions? Connect with katie@firstlu.org.
Middle School Picnic and Park
FOR: All middle school youth
RESCHEDULED:Sunday, Apr. 26, 11:30am–3:30pm
WHERE: Seven Bridges Park
Plan a day of fun, food, and Play at Seven Bridges Park. Invite a friend to join—all are welcome! Questions? Connect with madalyn@firstlu.org.
Preschool Springfest
Springfest, on Sun, Apr. 26, at 3pm, is our preschool’s major fund-raiser, and provides an opportunity for current preschoolers to showcase their singing talents. After the concert there will be treats and a silent auction. For all family members, grandparents, friends and neighbors! all bids will support the ministry of First Lutheran Preschool… so consider any bid over face value as a donation to the preschool’s ministry (and a good way to lock-in that bid)!
Chicken Dinner!
Tickets are now available for sale by youth through Apr. 22, or in the office, M–F, 9am–2:30pm, through Apr. 29. Meals cost only $14 presale before Apr. 29, Tickets will be $15 at the door while they last. And most importantly, all funds raised go to support youth going on mission trips and to Sugar Creek Bible Camp! Meals are provided by Premier Catering, and will be available for pick-up at First Lutheran on Thursday, Apr. 30, 11am–6pm. FOR YOUTH: You can checkout ticket packets to sell in the office; Tickets packets are due back to the church office WITH THE MONEY by 7pm on Apr. 22. Youth and families can sign up for a shift to help with takeouts at 1stlu.org/next.
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.
NEW! Ride to Church Ministry
If you would like a ride to church for Sunday morning, Wednesday evening, or for a ministry at any other time of the week, you can now connect with Bridget, our volunteer ride coordinator, to schedule a free ride. Do so by emailing ride@firstlu.org or by calling the church office at 608.783.2236 48+ hours in advance; rides for Sunday need to be scheduled by Thursday. More details at firstlutheranonalaska.org/ride.
Garden Ministry
First Lutheran has a wonderful history of producing vegetables for area food pantries throughout the summer and fall months. For this upcoming season we are looking for a new team of gardeners, willing to plan, plant, cultivate, water, and harvest our garden this year. Volunteer coordinators Steve Lind and Jennifer Peickert are ‘in,’ so you will not be doing it alone! It’s a community garden that no singular person or family is responsible for.
If you’re interested in joining our team, sign up at 1stlu.org/next and we’ll add you to the group who will get together in March as we plan out what kind of abundance to reap in the fall.
Blessing Graduates
First Lutheran will bless graduates in worship on Sunday, May 3, and Wednesday, May 6. Join us on those days for a special blessing to celebrate this milestone. Graduates will receive more details about this service in the coming days. Also for seniors… please share a senior picture with us for our grad board in the narthex! We are happy to display a wallet size (preferable) or the next size up. Simply drop off a picture in the office during the week or on a Sunday morning.
Spring Nosh with Neighbors: City Hall, Firefighters, & Police Dept.
Nosh with Neighbors for our city hall workers, firefighters, and police officers will be on May 14. Help set up, serve, clean up, and/or donate food. Monetary donations would be greatly appreciated as well. This is a wonderful opportunity to thank those who are under appreciated and for all the hard work they do for our community. Watch for sign up coming in April to help and donate.
Blood Drive
Monday, June 1, noon–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 photo ID. Questions? Connect with Diane Schude.
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.
Cancer Support
Navigating a cancer diagnosis, treatment, and after effects is tough and worthy of peer support. A non-medical First Lutheran member, Al Hutson, has been on this path and would like to make himself available to anyone interested in having a friendly ear to listen and provide mutual support. Contact him via email: awh051230@gmail.com, or phone/text: 563-343-8391.
HELP ministry
The Health Equipment Lending Program (HELP) is a ministry offered by Holmen Lutheran Church. People can borrow health-care equipment, ranging from crutches, walkers and wheelchairs to commodes and shower chairs. Also available are items to keep, such as transfer belts, braces and disposable briefs. For more information, contact Mary Nicolai at 608-498-0439 (text or leave a voicemail).
Salvation Army: Serving Hope, One Meal at a Time
The Salvation Army shelter in La Crosse provides 64 residents stability and an opportunity to get their feet back underneath of them and planted on solid ground. One of the ways this is done is by providing 3 meals a day. Each and every day, volunteers are needed at The Salvation Army La Crosse to help serve these warm, nourishing meals to those who need them most. These volunteers share their love and kindness with those they are serving. In addition to this, we welcome members of the community facing food insecurity to get a lunch each day of the week. In June, we served an average of 130 community meals each day. These meals are made possible by the compassion and service of volunteers—offering not only nourishment, but hope. If you are interested in learning more about how volunteers help us serve the community, please go online at centralusa.salvationarmy.org/lacrosse or call Rick at 608-782-6126 ext. 226 for more info.
Subscribe to Living Lutheran
Living Lutheran has brought back its print magazine publication. The storytelling you know and love will appear in mailboxes with four issues each year (spring, summer, winter and fall). Subscribe for the latest news, reflections and stories from the ELCA. Visit livinglutheran.org/subscribe to set up an individual subscription. If you have already subscribed – thank you!
Advocacy and Public Policy
Wondering how you can make your voice heard? Not sure how to call your elected leader or what you should say once you have them on the phone? There are two organizations that align with our values that can help!
The Lutheran Office of Public Policy Wisconsin Action Center has all the tools you need to take action on the state level. Find them at loppw.org/action.
ELCA Advocacy has all the tools you need to take action on the national level. Find them at: elca.org/how-we-serve/elca-in-society.
Sunday School
Sunday, Mar. 29–Apr. 12
No Sunday School; resumes Sunday, Apr. 19
More info and registration: 1stlu.org/sunschool
Confirmation
Sunday:
No Gr 6 & 7 Confirmation Classes; resumes Apr. 12
Wednesday:
5:05pm Confirmation Class
7pm Gr 8 & 9 Confirmation Small Groups
More info and registration: 1stlu.org/confirm.
