The Adult Ministries Team has had another busy, productive year. Team members in 2009 were Kaaren Stuck, Joel and Sonja Hernes, Melody Sundbakken, Sarah Hicks, Rod Torgeson (Council Liaison), and Kathy Solberg. Christian Education Director Chris Torgeson has continued to provide invaluable creativity, inspiration, and leadership, and brings us updates on our budget. Nathan Anderson joined the Team in January 2010.
Throughout 2009 the Adult Ministries Team planned and coordinated adult education classes for Wednesday evenings and Sunday mornings. Our goal is to offer a variety of inspirational and educational opportunities for adults, and to hold duplicate sessions to reach as many as possible. In January and February we offered a 6-week “Our Neighbor’s Faith” series featuring Hinduism, Sikhism, Baha`i, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Islam, and the Jewish faith. In March Zion hosted a one-day “Walk through the Bible” event attended by 100 people. In April and May, Sarah Hicks taught a 5-week series on art history and faith. In September and October, Sarah Hicks and Melody Sundbakken taught a 5-week series on The Lutheran Course. In November and December, Pastor John and Pastor Nathan led a 5-week study of Opening the Book of Faith.
In September Pastor John met with us to propose a forum at Zion to allow discussion of the vote at the August Churchwide Assembly approving rostering of people in committed same-sex relationships. Sunday afternoon forums were held in September, October, and December, led by Pastor John and Pastor Nathan.
We have continued our progress on Zion’s library, and its use has increased in 2009. Using new shelving purchased in 2008 with a Trust Fund grant, the library was installed in the west hallway. Sonja Hernes became the library director in February. Chris Torgeson and Kristi Asendorf, Ardis Markle, Sonja Hernes, and many other volunteers have sorted the collection, put children’s books in the classroom, and labeled the shelves. Book Club selections have a designated shelf, videos are now available, and new purchases are continually added. Zion members are invited to browse and take out materials, and donations to the library are always welcome.
During 2009 several Fun and Fellowship events were held for families, including a New Year’s Eve party, two game nights, and a film night. In September, team members participated in Zion’s Time and Talent Fair. Book Club and Sisterhood continue to meet monthly, and they encourage everyone to take part. Kaaren Stuck continues her excellent work in maintaining Zion’s excellent web site.
Plans for 2010 include a “Love and Logic” one-day Saturday class in January; a 6-week “Love and Logic” series in January and February as well as a concurrent Bible study; and a 5-week “Our Neighbor’s Faith” series in April and May. A “Soup-er Bowl Saturday” Fun and Fellowship event is planned for February 6. We on the Adult Ministries Team enjoy our work, and we welcome folks who would like to join us!