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Various Contributors | 2020 October Voice of Zion | Brett Nikula, Marriage and Family Therapist (LAMFT) We live in a world of emotions. God has given us this gift. Emotions are feelings of joy, pleasure and peace that are often so intense they can’t be described. To try to explain the emotions I have as my children run toward me after a long day away, or the peace I feel as I rest into the arms of my wife, seems impossible. Likewise, the gift of faith and the peace of conscience bring about a warmth that is deep and often indescribable. We all have experienced painful emotions in our life. This earth gives us many reasons to yearn for heaven, many reminders to cling to the faith that will bring us to eternal joy. Around us are individuals experiencing difficult hardship and trials. Often we experience emotional pain that feels unbearable. We Are Given Hope It can seem difficult to understand why God allows these things to happen, but He does. May it be that such trials turn us closer to God. My thoughts turn to words from the songwriter of SHZ 382: Now I may know both joy and woe, my flesh shall have to suffer, my soul shall sing thereafter. What God ordains is ever good. My soul, oh, be thou patient: This cup, which tastes of bitterness, at heaven’s feast is absent. For after grief God grants relief, my heart with laughter filling, my ev’ry sorrow stilling (v. 2,3). When John, the writer of Revelations, describes heaven in chapter 24, verse 4, we are given hope of the peace that awaits us there: “And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away. There is hope of relief from our earthly pain. We trust and believe that God allows for our trials and keeping a simple, childlike faith will carry us to the shores of heaven. A sense of peace washes over me for this moment. I feel grateful for the gift of faith. A Response to Loss Grief is one of the strongest and most complex emotions we might face here on this earth. It can be explained with many different sub-emotions. It can change from moment to moment and over time. I can only imagine the grief I would feel if the little feet of my children running to greet me, or my wife and best friend who has added so much to my life, became a memory. Simply imagining it brings strong, painful feelings. Is there a way we can explain grief? A simple search online provides the following as a definition: Grief is the response to loss, particularly to the loss of someone or something that has died, to which a bond or affection was formed. Although conventionally focused on the emotional response to loss, it also has physical, cognitive, behavioral, social, cultural, spiritual and philosophical dimensions (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grief). A sense of loss is experienced many ways. I remember talking with a woman who was in tears as she felt the pain of a life that could have been if she wouldn’t have spent 25 years supporting a loved one who battled an addiction. I have sat beside individuals as they learn that their hopes and dreams have been dashed. The tears pour out from a spot deep within. Different forms of loss come with many different responses. How to Measure Its Severity A simple way to express how a person responds to this loss would be through an equation. Event + Resources + Meaning = Response It is easy to understand, for example, that the loss of a favorite shirt would differ from the loss of a best friend. Likewise, it is easy to understand how someone who can easily replace that shirt might feel the impact less than the person who has less opportunity and fewer resources. Yet if the shirt was given to you from a sister who died, all the resources in the world would not be able to replace the shirt. Such is the nature of any loss. We have a scale by which we measure the severity of the loss. Our access to emotional resources can provide some protection from the pain, and the meaning we find around the loss (they don’t have to suffer here on earth vs. they were taken too soon) will determine much of our inner response. How others perceive it is another matter. In the field of mental health services, professionals acknowledge how much value a human connection can mean in a time of grief. A clear example of this is found in Job, chapter 2, verses 11–13: “Now when Job’s three friends heard of all this evil that was come upon him, they came every one from his own place; Eliphaz the Temanite, and Bildad the Shuhite, and Zophar the Naamathite: for they had made an appointment together to come to mourn with him and to comfort him. And when they lifted up their eyes afar off, and knew him not, they lifted up their voice, and wept; and they rent every one his mantle, and sprinkled dust upon their heads toward heaven. So they sat down with him upon the ground seven days and seven nights, and none spake a word unto him: for they saw that his grief was very great.” Supporting Others Who Grieve We see here that no words were required from Job’s friends, just a simple presence. We see, also, the ability each one of us has to support people who grieve difficult losses. I have often worried about what to say to someone who is experiencing grief. The Bible portion above has provided direction. Along with that has been advice to be curious. Each trial is unique, each person has their own personality. Seek to understand how that trial is affecting them and what it means to them, and meet them in those places. Simply ask, how can I help? Perhaps it is you who is looking for support in a time of loss. This loss may be a death or another type of loss. The hardest days of your life seem to be ahead of you. May you especially feel the gentle warmth of God’s love. Communicate Your Need If God gives the strength, reach out to those around you and clearly communicate your need for support. Freely contact the Home and Family Committee in your home congregation. In some cases, they may advise you to seek professional support. Share with that professional what you are looking for, and often they can connect you with a suitable therapist or counselor. Find someone in the helping profession that is focused in grief and loss and learn from them. Watch for the people in your life who have gone through something similar and who may be in a place that you want to get to. Ask them how they got to that place. Most importantly, trust in God. Continue to put away doubts and sin that attach so quickly, especially when we are facing trials. In closing I return to song 382: What God ordains is ever good. This truth remains unshaken. Though sorrow, need, or death be mine, I shall not be forsaken. I fear no harm, for with his arm in fields of green He hides me, to heaven’s home He guides me (v. 6). A Life of Service and Love Janelle Muhonen My mother gave her all for her children. She taught us the most important matters of life. First and foremost, she taught us matters of faith. She knew the importance of bringing her children to church to hear God’s Word. Even as a single mother she made sure we went to services. She taught us by example and through instruction. She was strict with us and tried to teach us right from wrong. She always told us: “If I don’t teach you, who will?” She taught us to respect our elders and teachers, and she taught us the value of hard work. In addition, she allowed us to learn responsibility. If we did something wrong, we had to pay the consequences. She didn’t defend our bad behavior or irresponsibility. Her life example inspired us to try to live a life according to God’s will. The most significant example from her life was that Mother wanted to serve God’s kingdom. Her income was so low that it was hard for her to pay her church dues. So she started fundraising by putting on dinners in our home. People would pay for the home-cooked meal, and she would give the money to the church. She also checked every Sunday that we had change to put in the Sunday school collection. Even in her old age, she would ask her grown kids as they brought her to church, “Do you have money for collection?” Mother served her family and community by keeping the door of her home open to everyone. She welcomed our friends and was like a second mother to many of them. She served meals, and she hosted overnight visitors passing through and local families. I see now that it was beneficial for us kids to frequently be around families with a mother and a father. Mom made our holidays special even on a tight budget. Christmas and Thanksgiving were always festive. We would wake in the morning to the delicious smell of turkey in the oven and her wonderful cooking. Our home would be decorated, and we always got a $5.00 tree from the Farmers Market in Minneapolis. One year, long after all of us children had reached adulthood, I received my annual Christmas card in the mail. In the card that year was also a five-dollar bill. She always gave a gift or money, and that year it was $5.00, probably the least of any Christmas. I sat there in the hall looking at that $5.00 and thought to myself, money must be tight this year, but she wanted to give us something. I knew every one of my siblings received the same $5.00. I then thought of the widow who gave her last mite. And that is how I think of my mother. My mother’s spending reflected her values. She gave her all to her children and the church. She never complained “poor me” to her children. In spite of all her hardships, she kept her faith most precious. She was obedient and God blessed her. That $5.00 was the most precious present I have ever received. It was a reminder to me of my dear mother, how she kept the faith, walked through life needing the gospel, endeavoring to believe and to teach her children about living faith. That was the most important to her. Years later, my husband Nathan and I had the opportunity to visit Israel. I found a shop in Old Jerusalem where they sold “The widow’s mite.” I wanted to purchase one in memory of my mother. When I told the store owner my story, he gave it to me. He said, “Your story of your mother means more to me than what money could ever buy. I want you to have it.” I put that widow’s mite in Mother’s casket this last February when she passed away. Phillip’s Writings Speak to Us Doug and Sharon Forstie It will soon be thirty years since December 26, 1990. On that day, our son Phillip was killed suddenly in a tragic accident. He was our second child. At the time, we had 11 children – our 12th was born three years later. Phillip had just turned 18 years old on December 20. Six days later, the day after Christmas, he passed away. That Christmas, he had gotten hockey socks for a gift. He washed them right away and hung them up – but he never got to wear them. In an English class that fall, Phillip wrote assignments that especially spoke to us and to his other loved ones and friends. These writings, given to us by his teacher after he passed away, were a great comfort. Phillip wrote how he loved God, and also his family: The person I love the most in this world is God. After that comes my mom and dad, my family and grandparents. I love my mom because she treats me and all of my brothers and sisters with loveÉ she has a lot of patience in everything she doesÉ my mom makes me feel good on the inside. This spoke to me, as his mother, how he had a forgiving heart for my many failings. He also wrote about death and loss and said that he felt thankful he had never lost a family member or cousin or someone really close to him; yet he acknowledged that loss is very hard. Some people in our church have died that I knew, and it was sad, he wrote. He also remembered when a friend’s baby had died at one month old. The living faith that Phillip had in his heart came through in his writings. He wrote that he didn’t need to fear death: I do not think death is something to really be scared of. When I die, if I have faith, I will go to heaven. Some people that believe in reincarnation probably are not scared of dyingÉ they believe they will come back to earth as another person. I do not think this is true. I will have another life, but it will be my soul in heaven. The people that should be scared of dying are those who worship the devil or some other false idol. If I love God when I die and have a clean conscience and soul, I will go to heavenÉ I have all faith in God. He promises us we will go to heaven if we have faith when we die. Hearing and believing the gospel was important to Phillip. After he died, a minister shared with us of a time when Phillip had gone to his grandmother, feeling he had offended her and wanted to have the matter cared for. We received letters that testified of the faith Phillip shared with his believing friends. His death especially spoke to them, and some said: If I had been called that day, would I have been ready? The love that his friends showed to us after his death meant so much. His cousin Keith Moll wrote a poem in his memory. The poem’s last lines revealed the prayer of this dear friend’s heart: In this faith I endeavor to stay until God calls me to be with thee for aye. Phillip’s friends, the young believers in Arizona, sang a song in his memory at the 1991 Phoenix Winter Services. One young girl sent us a card and wrote that she’d been given the gift of life – she hoped that she could remain in faith and serve God. We were comforted by the many messages we received and by the love of the believers. When it would have been Phil’s 20th birthday, youth in our congregation came to our home with 20 roses and sang to us. The love of the young believers touched our hearts very deeply. It was and still is today a great comfort to know that our son was heaven-acceptable, we do not need to doubt. Phillip has achieved his heavenly victory, and we hope and pray we will see him one day in heaven. Discussion Points 1.Grief is often associated with the loss of a loved one, yet one can experience grief from a loss other than death. How have you experienced this? 2.Explain the circumstances of a grieving experience in your life. How did you react? What did you try do to work through your grief? 3.What has been especially helpful to you during a time of grief? What has been the least helpful? Which people have been most supportive? 4.How should we approach one who is in a time of grieving and loss? How can you use your own experiences to assist that person? 5.Some suggest a grief journal, writing letters or poems, or the use of artwork or photograph collages as ways to express one’s loss and grief. Share experiences you may have with these. 6.Many experience grief over a loved one who died not in faith. Share your experience. What helped you attain acceptance of this? 7.Some people advise that it isn’t necessary to say anything to one who is grieving – your presence is enough. Discuss.

Various Contributors | 2020 September Voice of Zion | Marguerite Ojala “And the Lord said unto him, Who hath made man’s mouth? or who maketh the dumb, or deaf, or the seeing, or the blind? have not I the Lord?” (Exod. 4:11) There are many blessings to having children and adults with special needs in our lives – in our homes, in our families and in our congregations. Each of us probably knows someone who was born with a disability. Uncle Tim My uncle Tim Lever is one of these special people. When he was born with Down syndrome, in 1964, my grandparents were advised that it would be best to put him in an institution for the disabled. God guided them to instead raise him alongside the rest of their children. As God’s Word reminds us, we can trust in the Lord and He will guide our lives (Prov. 3:5,6). How different our family would be if they had done as the doctors advised. Uncle Tim was born with bright red hair and a gentle and happy disposition. He is affectionate with his family and loves everyone. He always tries to connect with people, but due to his disability it’s sometimes difficult for others to understand him. Yet this doesn’t stop him from trying. Tim doesn’t like it if he thinks someone might be upset with him, so much that he is quick to say he’s sorry and even apologize for things he didn’t do. Tim will hold a grudge if he feels like he has been wronged by someone, but he’s also easily talked out of it and wants to take care of matters. A Joy and Blessing to Us All Tim loves excitement, drama and the chaos of large gatherings. When our family gathers, Tim often becomes a source of entertainment as he acts out happenings from the past. He binds us together with the common joy of knowing him and our shared love for him. It has been special to watch how my own children now also benefit from interactions with their great-uncle. They have learned to accept those who are different from us, who cannot do all the things others can do. We all have fun Tim stories to share. One such story my mother recalls was from many years ago during a sermon by visiting minister, Elmer Alajoki. Tim got up to use the restroom. In the meantime, Elmer finished his sermon and sat down in Tim’s vacant seat. When Tim returned, he tapped Elmer on the shoulder, “My spot, my spot,” he said. Elmer promptly got up and found another place to sit. Tim has also been a blessing to our Seattle congregation. Everybody knows him. He loves to be helpful and often clears tables after snack or meals. He enjoys passing the microphone at Bible class and discussions and has enjoyed washing dishes at camps over the years. Some who have lost loved ones tell of how Tim comforted them at their loved one’s funeral with a pat on the shoulder and the simple words, “That’s okay, it’s okay.” His Simple Faith My grandma always reminded us that Tim was born one of God’s children and that he doesn’t need to do anything special to make it to heaven. “He’s on his way to heaven,” she would say. She and my grandpa worried what Tim’s life would be like when they passed away or could no longer care for him. Even in this God has guided and protected uncle Tim, who needs help with tasks of daily living. He has lived for the past ten years with my parents and is able to spend time with his siblings, nieces and nephews and friends. As he has aged, Tim has had disability-related struggles. He has had to spend time in the hospital with health concerns. In every phase of his life, uncle Tim has retained a child-like innocence and with such simple faith remains one of God’s own. His faith is an example to all who know him. He will continue to be cared for in this life until the day God calls him to his heavenly home. Heather, Our Sunshine Girl Joel and Shelly Martin How excited we were when we found out we were going to have a new baby. During one of the early doctor appointments we learned that our unborn child had a heart defect and that a large percentage of babies with that defect also have Down syndrome. Naturally we were a little apprehensive and even a bit upset with the information. We put our trust in God that He would guide us according to His will. After our baby Heather was born, she had a number of surgeries and many doctor appointments, including a successful open-heart surgery at six months of age. Happy Energy Heather is a very happy child, a nonstop ball of energy who has a way of involving others. She attracts attention – sometimes a bit too much – and isn’t shy even with those she doesn’t know. She feels the need to say “Hi!” to people in passing, especially has a liking for babies and wants to hug every one of them. We have been taking many walks in these times of coronavirus, bringing the neighbor ladies yellow daisy bouquets! Heather has received a lot of help from many in our local congregation, both adults and children, which is very much appreciated. She especially loves and remembers her Sunday school teachers and points them out at church. Heather loves to play outside, ride her trike and her yellow car. She loves when children want to play with her. At a recent graduation party, she was preparing “food” for a couple girls a few years older than her – they were all having a good time! A Joy to Her Siblings Heather is a joy to have in our household. Since her siblings are all older than her, they have been able to enjoy and share the quirky little things that only Heather does. When someone comes home, we can almost guarantee that Heather is waiting close by the door to greet them. Tiffany and Diane, her two older sisters who live away from home, love getting unexpected phone calls from Heather. Her phone calls can turn a bad day into a good one, putting her sisters in a positive mood. She tells them about her day and what she is going to do. Since Heather has difficulty with speech, she has learned some sign language. She has made some of her own signs for words, some for certain people, some for places she likes to go and others that we don’t even recognize at first. She continues to progress in many areas of learning typical to most children. We are reminded by God’s Word that He has made each one of us a unique individual in His own way: “So God created man in his own image” (Gen. 1:27). Our family is thankful for the blessing we received from God – our sunshine child and sister, Heather. Perfect in God’s Eyes Natalie Kiviahde When our fifth child, Lewis Daniel, arrived in our lives on an August day nine years ago, we didn’t expect the journey we would have with him. Often on this journey, I have remembered the words from Matthew: “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? And Jesus called a little child unto him and set him in the midst of them” (18:1,2). Lewis seemed to be a normal baby at first, but at six months of age began three and a half years of doctor visits and testing. Lewis was finally given a diagnosis: his GNB1 gene was mutated. There were only three other known cases in the world at that time, and the doctors told us that he would have to write his own story. I told our other children about Lewis’s diagnosis – that he might never be able to walk or talk or do things like others do, but that God made him how he is and that Lewis is perfect in God’s eyes. We will love him still. The kids replied, “Of course we will love him – he’s our brother!” They have never questioned why we have a child with handicaps and why God made him the way he is. Daily Challenges Having a child with handicaps can be challenging. Since Lewis is nonverbal, we are constantly trying to guess what he wants or needs. He needs constant eyes on him since he gets into plenty of “mischief.” We also spoon-feed him – it is like taking care of an infant. Our life in most ways revolves around Lewis. We need to consider him and his needs in our home, our vehicle, our travel, our visiting and our free time. I have questioned many times why God made Lewis the way he is. Why did He give him to us? I might never know these answers, but I trust that in heaven God gives all answers. One particular song of Zion expresses the ache that is sometimes in my heart: “All trials are then like a dream that is past, forgotten all trouble and sorrow. All questions and doubts have been answered at last; then dawneth eternity’s morrow. Have mercy upon us, O Jesus!” (SHZ 405:6). Trust in God’s Will The Bible tells me to trust God: “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all ways acknowledge him and he shall direct thy paths” (Prov. 3:5,6). I can trust completely in God’s will and plan. I can be happy and rejoice in what God has blessed me with. It helps when Lewis has such loving and caring schoolteachers, therapy teachers and caregivers, who have such a special gift to care for children with special needs. Lewis currently can walk with a gait trainer, scoots on his bottom and communicates with gestures and a PODD book. He laughs, cries, yells, recognizes people, loves attention and loves being outside. Daily Contentment Lewis reminds me daily that we can be happy and content with whatever is put before us. Most importantly he has reminded me that being a child of God in His precious kingdom is so simple – to simply have childlike faith and take care of matters that weigh on the conscience with the precious gospel. Lewis and our family need prayers. We want to remain in God’s precious kingdom until we reach heaven’s home. I pray that I can one day see Lewis in heaven running, walking and talking. Life with Bennett Leila Jurmu “The world needs more Bennetts” is a phrase I’ve found myself using often. This is said jokingly – but also seriously. Time has a way of illuminating the many blessings that come with raising a child with special needs. Bennett helps us see what truly matters in life a little more clearly. When everything feels broken and chaotic and we realize how little control we have in life, all that is left is to trust in God. We know that His will will be done, and it will be good. Bennett Teaches Us As time passes and Bennett’s needs become a way of life, we are able to see and understand how blessed we are to have Bennett as our own. It’s incredible to watch his siblings grow up in a world where feeding tubes, treatments, hospitalizations and appointments are normal. They quickly become in-tune to his neurological fragility and know how to respond to him. Without hesitation they leap into action. Taking care of Bennett has taught us many things, such as kindness, compassion, patience and empathy. We can see and know that in spite of outward appearances and abilities there is so much love and worthiness underneath.We have learned to not assume things, but to freely give grace because we often cannot know or see what is going on behind the scenes. This reminds us to speak kindly of others and show empathy more often. God’s Plan Is Good Before Bennett, it would have been incomprehensible to choose this life. We could not have fathomed how a family would cope and would have been even fearful. But here we so clearly can see how God knows best. Happiness and contentment have become our goals – for Bennett and for us. We understand that tomorrow is unknown and not guaranteed. Therefore, today we appreciate and enjoy Bennett and his presence in our lives. Life has changed for sure; we’ve all had to make adjustments to our own hopes and expectations. But these adjustments are easier when we can see the blessings we’ve been given, like time spent as a family, at home. We have found that we visit more and appreciate each other’s company. We are incredibly thankful to God for our son Bennett and the blessings that help make our day-to-day life so much more beautiful. Discussion Points 1.Sing Song of Zion 394, which is based on Psalm 139:13–16. How do the words in this song relate to people with special needs? 2.Read Bible portions John 9:2–4 and Proverbs 3:5–6. What do they teach us? 3.What have been your personal experiences with those with special needs? 4.How or where have you found comfort when faced with struggles or needs, those of your own or of your loved ones?

Adrian Pirness | 2020 June/July Shepherd's Voice | Do you remember the first time you went to camp? How did you feel? I remember the first time I went. I was in 4th grade, 10 years old. The camp was held on a weekend for children in grades 3 through 9. Before this, we didn’t have youth camps. I was happy to go but was also a little nervous about being away from home overnight. Apostle Paul wrote a letter to the Ephesian believers. He instructed them about many things, including about being kind. “Be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another” (Eph. 4:32). When we’re kind, our friends and others around us feel good and safe and are happy to be with us. Jesus teaches the same in the Golden Rule (Luke 6:31). We want to treat others as we would like to be treated. Everyone wants to belong and feel that others notice and appreciate them. When my children go to camp, I have a challenge for them. I ask them to meet and talk to one person they haven’t known before. I know this can be hard to do because it’s something that can be uncomfortable for me even as an adult. But from these little visits, we may find a new friend! Showing kindness can happen in little ways. We can smile at someone we meet or pass by. We can say hi and greet with God’s Peace. We can hold the door open for another person, take someone’s tray after a camp or church meal or invite someone to join our visit or activity. Sometimes we may notice that somebody needs help and we can ask, “How can I help you?” I remember a sad time at camp when I was young. It happened to a dear friend, although at that time I didn’t realize this person would be such a dear friend later on. We were at camp together and he was not treated nicely by others. I was also treated unkindly, but I even said mean things to this person to avoid the unkind things that were happening to me. I thought that those who were mean might leave me alone. Many years later I was able to visit with this person. We remembered this sad time and most importantly were able to preach the gospel to each other. When you’re at camp or church and see someone being treated wrongly, say something. If you feel you can’t say something to the person who is being mean, tell your mom or dad or tell a staff member at camp. Apostle Paul reminds us to forgive each other. It is precious and important that we can ask for and believe our sins forgiven. We are weak, we make mistakes and we offend others. It is good that we care for offenses with the gospel. When we go to church or camp, we can pray that God will bless this time together! Adrian Pirness Things to visit about: 1.Song of Zion 463 speaks about our speech. What does it remind us to do? Or not to do? Sing this song and visit about it. 2.Challenge yourself next time you go to camp or church: visit with someone who you haven’t visited with before.

Change in Plans for 2020 LLC Summer Services, July 2–5 The 2020 LLC Summer Services will not be held in Marquette, Michigan. Due to the restrictions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, Summer Services this year will be changed from a large, in-person assembly of service guests to an online format. Although we will miss the fellowship of gathering together, we remember the core purpose for which all services are arranged, the preaching and hearing of God’s Word. Due to this change, the Ishpeming congregation and the Eastern Area will host their long planned-for Summer Services in Marquette, Michigan, one year later, July 1-4, 2021, if God so wills. A decision on changing the arrangements for this year’s Summer Services has been pending since LLC Winter Services in Phoenix were canceled. Those involved with planning these services have anticipated that large gatherings may not be possible in July. Nonetheless, all have hoped that things would somehow be different. In light of so many uncertainties, the LLC Board’s decision to change services is deemed as the right and responsible decision to make at this time. The Annual Meeting of the LLC is held yearly in conjunction with Summer Services. Notice of the plans for holding the LLC Annual Meeting will be sent to LLC congregations in early May. Currently plans are being made for an online meeting format. The agenda for the meetings, along with the 2021 LLC Draft Operating Plan and an Operating Plan video, will also be provided in May. Amidst disappointment, joy comes knowing that there is yet possibility to preach the Word of God. At the core of the sermon is the freeing message of the gospel, the forgiveness of sins. It may be possible this year that listeners will be able to gather with friends and family to hold small-scale Summer Services in the security of their own homes and yards. As we transition to an online format, our plan is to join with the Summer Services Radio (Kesäseuraradio) programming in Finland, in cooperation with our sister organization, SRK. The online programming will be in English and originate from the LLC office. Programming will be accessible on the LLC website and will include continuous broadcasts between scheduled service times. More information will follow as work continues. Refocusing our planning will require much effort. We pray for God’s blessings! Eric Jurmu, LLC Executive Director, ejurmu@llchurch.org Jim Frantti, LLC Board Chairman, jfrantti@llchurch.org

Motherhood is a labor of love and a gift to each of us. It may seem that mother’s work goes unnoticed and is unappreciated. This Mother’s Day – and all days of the year – we can take time to celebrate and remember our mother’s selfless acts of love, show her our appreciation and thank her for all she does. Remember mother in prayer: In all her joy and weeping hold mother in Your keeping. Increase her faith, we pray. Oh, strengthen her and guide her, Your wisdom, Lord, provide her to teach her children every day. O gracious Heav’nly Father, our mother gently gather to Jesus’ heart of love. Through all of our tomorrows we cast on Him our sorrows and yearn for heaven’s home above. (SHZ 423:5,6) Happy Mother’s Day and God’s abundant blessings to you, dear mothers. Updates on LLC Activities Although the LLC office was closed for the month of April, staff were able to work remotely from their homes. Due to COVID-19, Northern Michigan University (NMU) has closed all its buildings through the end of the school year and gone to online classes. As I write this, we are preparing a contingency plan for Summer Services if they need to be canceled. An announcement about services will have been made by the time you receive this issue of the Voice of Zion. Regular updates on Summer Services planning can also be found on the LLC website. Contingency planning will be prepared as well for the LLC Annual Meeting, how a virtual meeting might be organized if this is needed. We will look into meeting apps that can be used for such things as virtual voting. To prepare our congregations and their delegates for the LLC Annual Meeting, a video outlining the main points of the 2021 draft LLC Operating Plan will be sent to congregations by May 15. The meeting notice, agenda and related information will be included. All foreign mission trips are on hold as the COVID-19 situation remains closely monitored. This includes LLC’s summer mission trips to Finland. We will continue to monitor plans for the SRK and SFC mission trips scheduled to North America this summer, with prayerful hopes that they happen as planned. All LLC-sponsored camps are canceled through May. We will continue to monitor the situation with our camp directors and make adjustments as necessary. A contingency plan is being worked on in case LLC confirmation schools in July and August need to be altered. We will make any announcements regarding changes by June 1. The HLC Language Camp scheduled for July has been canceled, due to the significant amount of planning required and the uncertainty of international travel. The Humanitarian Aid Committee (HAC) sent a larger than normal quarterly grant to our foreign mission areas. Many in those countries are experiencing an interruption in daily life that also affects their daily bread. It is good to remember them in prayer. Because of the uncertainties due to COVID-19, we will wait to see how this situation unfolds before posting for LLC office positions being vacated by employee retirements this summer and fall. The current situation has also brought positives and blessings. It seems that God is giving opportunity to consider other ways of doing the work and is preparing us for the future. The short evening devotions that started due to the request of those confined and lonely have been very positively received. Plans are to continue them at least for the near-term. Congregations have requested Sunday school support. Staff will continue to develop digital lessons to assist in this, similar to the first more broadly distributed lesson on Easter Sunday. Jon Bloomquist and Jim Frantti served Ecuadorean believers with online services on Easter weekend. The brothers served from their respective homes and Maria Wuollet translated from her home in Phoenix to listeners in Ecuador. It is one small way we can support those in faraway lands during this time of uncertainty. God has graced us with a time to work. May He continue to guide the efforts in His kingdom. Eric Jurmu ‍

The evening devotions have been warmly received and will continue as an LLC effort. We thank the Phoenix and Menahga congregations for the work they have done. In the next few weeks, we will add additional ministers to this work and also consolidate the broadcasts under a single LLC-based feed. The LLC website listen page will reflect these changes as they happen.

We continue to monitor how the COVID-19 situation may affect our LLC Summer Services and Annual Meeting scheduled for July 2-5 this year in Marquette, Michigan. As the situation remains fluid, we are making contingency plans if physical services are indeed canceled and we move to holding Summer Services online. As previously stated, we will make this decision and announcement by May 1.

We continue to monitor how the COVID-19 pandemic affects LLC activities. With the current situation, including schools in various regions closed to in-person learning for the duration of the school year, we have canceled all our camp activities at LLC facilities through the end of May. The situation will be monitored on an ongoing basis, and announcements of any further camp cancelations will be made going forward.

Preparations are being made to post a Sunday School video Easter morning. You may view this video with your loved ones as part of your Easter celebration at home. Details about when and where this video will be posted will be available before Sunday on LLC social media and website. A notice with these details will also be sent to LLC congregations. Work is also going forward on planning further Sunday School videos that will be published in coming weeks. We will send further information on these items as it becomes available.

While we understand the vital importance of fellowship in the life of our believing young, we feel a need to remind them that it is also their duty to obey the recommendations and regulations set forth by local and national authorities with regards to gathering at this time. Please remind your youth, and others, the importance of doing their part during these unprecedented times. Let us all support one another in this endeavor.