Category: News

Happening at The Rock

• January 12, 2025, 15 Forward Pizza Preview (RSVP here)
• January 13, 2025, La Carreta Fundraiser for the Guatemala Mission Team
• June 19-26, 2025, Guatemala Mission Trip
• July 19-23, 2025, LCMS Youth Gathering

Please eat at La Carreta on Monday, January 13…lunch, dinner, take out…20% of all sales will support The Rock’s Guatemala Mission Team.  No cooking required!!

Download the Church Center app! This is a new way to see what’s happening at The Rock, access the directory, give electronically and more!

God has blessed The Rock immensely for the first 15 years of its existence.  It’s now time to pray, consider and plan for what He has in store for The Rock’s ministry going forward.

15 Forward is a campaign designed to shift our congregational attention to God’s future plans for The Rock.  You are invited to learn, engage and support this process of planning and action.  Here’s how you can begin:

• Read this overview of 15 Forward today
• Commit to learn details of the immediate Phase 1 projects at the Pizza Preview on January 12. It involves 30 minutes after church to learn, with your lunch included. RSVP to make sure we order enough pizza.

Do you have an announcement you’d like to have made in the Rock newsletter, on our social media pages, or on the screen on Sunday? Please use this new Announcement Submission Form.

Our January item to donate in support of Blue Valley Community Action is soap and shampoo. Thanks for being a blessing to the community in this way. You can see our Blue Valley Pantry item schedule on our website. Year-round they also collect the following: pasta, pasta meal mixes, instant potato side dishes, and mashed potatoes.

The Rock Facility Improvement Project

We are still looking for people to partner with us in our facility improvement project. We’ve divided the entire building into 48 distinct areas, each with its own To-Do list, To make it easier for everyone to contribute, we invite you to “adopt” a room or area, and over the next year, enlist your friends or family to focus on just that ONE space. Whether it’s a big task or a small one, many hands will make light work, and there is something everyone can do to help.

With God’s people working side by side, we can accomplish amazing things! If you can help, please contact [email protected]. We have posted the To-Do Lists

We are still in need of a backup caregiver for Nicodemus Comfort Dog. The role of the Back-up Caregiver is the same as the Primary Caregiver, only a much shorter time commitment. The Back-up Caregiver cares for the needs of Nico, getting him ready to go out to service when Randy and Marcia have scheduled time off. The Nico fund would set up that person or family with all needed supplies and training as to Nico’s verbal and house commands. 

The Back-up Caregiver does NOT have to be a member of the Rock Church or even a Lutheran, but must be a follower of Jesus. Policy from the Lutheran Church Charities (LCC), the head of the Comfort Dog Ministry who set the rules and commands for all the Comfort Dogs across the U.S.A., has changed.  Another pet within the Back-up Caregiver home is allowed but still not preferred.  

What the Nico Team is asking is that you sit with our Lord in prayer, to ask for a name that might be a possibility for a Back-up Caregiver for our Ministry. Please get that name with contact information to one of Nico’s Team members or one of the Rock’s leadership members, or submit it to our church office. Thank you for your prayers and help.

Visit the YogaFaith Facebook page for a full calendar and more information.

Happening at The Rock

• Dec. 24, 2024, 4pm and 8pm, Christmas Eve Worship
• June 19-26, 2025, Guatemala Mission Trip
• July 19-23, 2025, LCMS Youth Gathering

Two Christmas Eve Worship Times! 4:00pm and 8:00pm

Come celebrate the birth of Jesus with us at The Rock! Everyone is welcome. We will celebrate and worship joyfully as our God meets us in His Word and we experience Christ this Christmas. Our service will be engaging for all. Bring your family, friends, your whole crew to experience Christmas!

God has blessed The Rock immensely for the first 15 years of its existence.  It’s now time to pray, consider and plan for what He has in store for The Rock’s ministry going forward.

15 Forward is a campaign designed to shift our congregational attention to God’s future plans for The Rock.  You are invited to learn, engage and support this process of planning and action.  Here’s how you can begin:

• Read this overview of 15 Forward today
• Commit to learn details of the immediate Phase 1 projects at one of the Pizza Previews to beheld on January 5, 12, or 19. It involves 30 minutes after church to learn, with your lunch included. RSVP to make sure we order enough pizza.
• Consider serving on a steering committee to lead Phase II beginning in February.  These are 8-week committee leadership roles that have a firm start and end point during February and March, part of the Nebraska District’s Consecrated Stewards program we are engaging with. Please email [email protected] if you are interested in serving as a committee leader.

Look for the Giving Tree in the Rock Café! Take a tag to contribute and return your financial gift to the gold box at the base of the tree. Thank you for supporting the 58 youth and 10 adults attending from The Rock and St. John!

Ethan and Amanda Hutton presented at The Rock on November 10. Here is how you can support Familia Hutton and the LightHouse ministry in Costa Rica!

Online: https://missionofchrist.org/hutton/

Check:
Made payable to: Mission of Christ Network
Memo: Huttons
Mailed to: Mission of Christ Network
PO Box 533
Concordia, MO 64020

Please also remember to lift them up in prayer!

Do you have an announcement you’d like to have made in the Rock newsletter, on our social media pages, or on the screen on Sunday? Please use this new Announcement Submission Form.

Our December item to donate in support of Blue Valley Community Action is tuna. Thanks for being a blessing to the community in this way. You can see our Blue Valley Pantry item schedule on our website. Year-round they also collect the following: pasta, pasta meal mixes, instant potato side dishes, and mashed potatoes.

The Rock Facility Improvement Project

We are still looking for people to partner with us in our facility improvement project. We’ve divided the entire building into 48 distinct areas, each with its own To-Do list, To make it easier for everyone to contribute, we invite you to “adopt” a room or area, and over the next year, enlist your friends or family to focus on just that ONE space. Whether it’s a big task or a small one, many hands will make light work, and there is something everyone can do to help.

With God’s people working side by side, we can accomplish amazing things! If you can help, please contact [email protected]. We have posted the To-Do Lists in each of the spaces so you can walk around and look at the areas before choosing your space.

We are still in need of a backup caregiver for Nicodemus Comfort Dog. The role of the Back-up Caregiver is the same as the Primary Caregiver, only a much shorter time commitment. The Back-up Caregiver cares for the needs of Nico, getting him ready to go out to service when Randy and Marcia have scheduled time off. The Nico fund would set up that person or family with all needed supplies and training as to Nico’s verbal and house commands. 

The Back-up Caregiver does NOT have to be a member of the Rock Church or even a Lutheran, but must be a follower of Jesus. Policy from the Lutheran Church Charities (LCC), the head of the Comfort Dog Ministry who set the rules and commands for all the Comfort Dogs across the U.S.A., has changed.  Another pet within the Back-up Caregiver home is allowed but still not preferred.  

What the Nico Team is asking is that you sit with our Lord in prayer, to ask for a name that might be a possibility for a Back-up Caregiver for our Ministry. Please get that name with contact information to one of Nico’s Team members or one of the Rock’s leadership members, or submit it to our church office. Thank you for your prayers and help.

Visit the YogaFaith Facebook page for a full calendar and more information.

Happening at The Rock

• Dec. 15, 2024, 6:30pm, Christmas Comfort Service
• Dec. 24, 2024, 4pm and 8pm, Christmas Eve Worship
• June 19-26, 2025, Guatemala Mission Trip
• July 19-23, 2025, LCMS Youth Gathering

Join us at the Rock for a Christmas Comfort Service on Sunday, December 15 at 6:30pm. Everyone is welcome, especially those who are experiencing loss, grief, pain, loneliness, or hurt this holiday season. God made us for community. You are not alone! Come experience God’s peace and grace with others.

Two Christmas Eve Worship Times! 4:00pm and 8:00pm

Come celebrate the birth of Jesus with us at The Rock! Everyone is welcome. We will celebrate and worship joyfully as our God meets us in His Word and we experience Christ this Christmas. Our service will be engaging for all. Bring your family, friends, your whole crew to experience Christmas!

Watch for another email coming soon about 15 Forward!

Look for the Giving Tree on Sunday! Take a tag to contribute and return your financial gift to the gold box at the base of the tree. Thank you for supporting the 58 youth and 10 adults attending from The Rock and St. John!

Fill The Pantry! In 2022, we collected more than 500 hygiene items in support of Blue Valley. Let’s give it a try one more time! Our usual November food pantry collection item is toothpaste, and we’ll add to that by also collecting feminine products, toothbrushes, shampoo, conditioner, soap, deodorant, toilet paper, paper towels, tissues, baby wipes, and diapers (especially larger sizes). You can drop those items in the blue wagon located in the cafe. Let’s try to get 500 hygiene items again between now and December 15!

Ethan and Amanda Hutton presented at The Rock on November 10. Here is how you can support Familia Hutton and the LightHouse ministry in Costa Rica!

Online: https://missionofchrist.org/hutton/

Check:
Made payable to: Mission of Christ Network
Memo: Huttons
Mailed to: Mission of Christ Network
PO Box 533
Concordia, MO 64020

Please also remember to lift them up in prayer!

Do you have an announcement you’d like to have made in the Rock newsletter, on our social media pages, or on the screen on Sunday? Please use this new Announcement Submission Form.

Our December item to donate in support of Blue Valley Community Action is tuna. Thanks for being a blessing to the community in this way. You can see our Blue Valley Pantry item schedule on our website. Year-round they also collect the following: pasta, pasta meal mixes, instant potato side dishes, and mashed potatoes.

The Rock Facility Improvement Project

We are still looking for people to partner with us in our facility improvement project. We’ve divided the entire building into 48 distinct areas, each with its own To-Do list, To make it easier for everyone to contribute, we invite you to “adopt” a room or area, and over the next year, enlist your friends or family to focus on just that ONE space. Whether it’s a big task or a small one, many hands will make light work, and there is something everyone can do to help.

With God’s people working side by side, we can accomplish amazing things! If you can help, please contact [email protected]. We have posted the To-Do Lists in each of the spaces so you can walk around and look at the areas before choosing your space.

We are still in need of a backup caregiver for Nicodemus Comfort Dog. The role of the Back-up Caregiver is the same as the Primary Caregiver, only a much shorter time commitment. The Back-up Caregiver cares for the needs of Nico, getting him ready to go out to service when Randy and Marcia have scheduled time off. The Nico fund would set up that person or family with all needed supplies and training as to Nico’s verbal and house commands. 

The Back-up Caregiver does NOT have to be a member of the Rock Church or even a Lutheran, but must be a follower of Jesus. Policy from the Lutheran Church Charities (LCC), the head of the Comfort Dog Ministry who set the rules and commands for all the Comfort Dogs across the U.S.A., has changed.  Another pet within the Back-up Caregiver home is allowed but still not preferred.  

What the Nico Team is asking is that you sit with our Lord in prayer, to ask for a name that might be a possibility for a Back-up Caregiver for our Ministry. Please get that name with contact information to one of Nico’s Team members or one of the Rock’s leadership members, or submit it to our church office. Thank you for your prayers and help.

Visit the YogaFaith Facebook page for a full calendar and more information.

Happening at The Rock

• Nov. 29 and 30, 2024, Salvation Army Bell Ringing
• Dec. 8, 2024, 1pm – 4pm, Parade of Homes
• Dec. 15, 2024, 6:30pm, Christmas Comfort Service
• Dec. 24, 2024, 4pm and 8pm, Christmas Eve Worship
• June 19-26, 2025, Guatemala Mission Trip
• July 19-23, 2025, LCMS Youth Gathering

There are volunteer opportunities available on November 29 and 30 to be a Bell Ringer for the Salvation Army. Click here or scan the QR code to sign up for an hour (or more) at the Seward Walmart.

Free Thanksgiving Dinner! November 28, 2024 at Noon at St. John Lutheran Church, 919 Columbia Ave. in Seward. Everyone is welcome! Rides or delivery for homebound are available. Call 402-643-2983 by 4:00pm on Wed., November 27.

The Christmas Parade of Homes is back! Sunday December 8 from 1 PM to 4 PM, five local homes will be showcased during this event. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased online here or in person at the St. John church office during business hours. All proceeds from the parade of homes will go directly to the youth from the Rock and St. John attending the youth gathering next summer in New Orleans. Have a great time with family or friends getting holiday inspiration and our supporting our youth!

Fill The Pantry! In 2022, we collected more than 500 hygiene items in support of Blue Valley. Let’s give it a try one more time! Our usual November food pantry collection item is toothpaste, and we’ll add to that by also collecting feminine products, toothbrushes, shampoo, conditioner, soap, deodorant, toilet paper, paper towels, tissues, baby wipes, and diapers (especially larger sizes). You can drop those items in the blue wagon located in the cafe. Let’s try to get 500 hygiene items again between now and December 15!

Ethan and Amanda Hutton presented at The Rock on November 10. Here is how you can support Familia Hutton and the LightHouse ministry in Costa Rica!

Online: https://missionofchrist.org/hutton/

Check:
Made payable to: Mission of Christ Network
Memo: Huttons
Mailed to: Mission of Christ Network
PO Box 533
Concordia, MO 64020

Please also remember to lift them up in prayer!

Do you have an announcement you’d like to have made in the Rock newsletter, on our social media pages, or on the screen on Sunday? Please use this new Announcement Submission Form.

Our December item to donate in support of Blue Valley Community Action is tuna. Thanks for being a blessing to the community in this way. You can see our Blue Valley Pantry item schedule on our website. Year-round they also collect the following: pasta, pasta meal mixes, instant potato side dishes, and mashed potatoes.

The Rock Facility Improvement Project

We are still looking for people to partner with us in our facility improvement project. We’ve divided the entire building into 48 distinct areas, each with its own To-Do list, To make it easier for everyone to contribute, we invite you to “adopt” a room or area, and over the next year, enlist your friends or family to focus on just that ONE space. Whether it’s a big task or a small one, many hands will make light work, and there is something everyone can do to help.

With God’s people working side by side, we can accomplish amazing things! If you can help, please contact [email protected]. We have posted the To-Do Lists in each of the spaces so you can walk around and look at the areas before choosing your space.

We are still in need of a backup caregiver for Nicodemus Comfort Dog. The role of the Back-up Caregiver is the same as the Primary Caregiver, only a much shorter time commitment. The Back-up Caregiver cares for the needs of Nico, getting him ready to go out to service when Randy and Marcia have scheduled time off. The Nico fund would set up that person or family with all needed supplies and training as to Nico’s verbal and house commands. 

The Back-up Caregiver does NOT have to be a member of the Rock Church or even a Lutheran, but must be a follower of Jesus. Policy from the Lutheran Church Charities (LCC), the head of the Comfort Dog Ministry who set the rules and commands for all the Comfort Dogs across the U.S.A., has changed.  Another pet within the Back-up Caregiver home is allowed but still not preferred.  

What the Nico Team is asking is that you sit with our Lord in prayer, to ask for a name that might be a possibility for a Back-up Caregiver for our Ministry. Please get that name with contact information to one of Nico’s Team members or one of the Rock’s leadership members, or submit it to our church office. Thank you for your prayers and help.

Visit the YogaFaith Facebook page for a full calendar and more information.

Happening at The Rock

• Dec. 8, 2024, 1pm – 4pm, Parade of Homes
• Dec. 15, 2024, 6:30pm, Christmas Comfort Service
• Dec. 24, 2024, Christmas Eve Worship
• June 19-26, 2025, Guatemala Mission Trip
• July 19-23, 2025, LCMS Youth Gathering

We have three amazing opportunities to bless our community between now and Christmas.

Stuff The Turkey! Look for the turkey box on the second floor landing near the Stepping Stones classrooms. Grab a tag or two with Thanksgiving meal items listed on them and bring those things to stuff the turkey box before November 20.

Gift A Turkey! Between now and November 20, we are collecting money to buy turkeys for Blue Valley to distribute to local families in need. Turkeys will cost about $25 each and we hope to provide at least ten as a congregation. We will have a collection jar for your donations in the cafe area.

Fill The Pantry! In 2022, we collected more than 500 hygiene items in support of Blue Valley. Let’s give it a try one more time! Our usual November food pantry collection item is toothpaste, and we’ll add to that by also collecting feminine products, toothbrushes, shampoo, conditioner, soap, deodorant, toilet paper, paper towels, tissues, baby wipes, and diapers (especially larger sizes). You can drop those items in the blue wagon located in the cafe. Let’s try to get 500 hygiene items again between now and December 15!

Free Thanksgiving Dinner! November 29, 2024 at Noon at St. John Lutheran Church, 919 Columbia Ave. in Seward. Everyone is welcome! Rides or delivery for homebound are available. Call 402-643-2983 by 4:00pm on Wed., November 27.

The Christmas Parade of Homes is back! Sunday December 8 from 1 PM to 4 PM, five local homes will be showcased during this event. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased online here or in person at the St. John church office during business hours. All proceeds from the parade of homes will go directly to the youth from the Rock and St. John attending the youth gathering next summer in New Orleans. Have a great time with family or friends getting holiday inspiration and our supporting our youth!

As we approach a busy season that can be challenging, Faith Partners would like to focus on gratitude in November. After you make your name tag on Sundays, look for the leaves to write things that you are thankful for and place it on or around the tree trunk. “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18)

Do you have an announcement you’d like to have made in the Rock newsletter, on our social media pages, or on the screen on Sunday? Please use this new Announcement Submission Form.

Our November item to donate in support of Blue Valley Community Action is toothpaste. Thanks for being a blessing to the community in this way. You can see our Blue Valley Pantry item schedule on our website. Year-round they also collect the following: pasta, pasta meal mixes, instant potato side dishes, and mashed potatoes.

The Rock Facility Improvement Project

We are still looking for people to partner with us in our facility improvement project. We’ve divided the entire building into 48 distinct areas, each with its own To-Do list, To make it easier for everyone to contribute, we invite you to “adopt” a room or area, and over the next year, enlist your friends or family to focus on just that ONE space. Whether it’s a big task or a small one, many hands will make light work, and there is something everyone can do to help.

With God’s people working side by side, we can accomplish amazing things! If you can help, please contact [email protected]. We have posted the To-Do Lists in each of the spaces so you can walk around and look at the areas before choosing your space.

We are still in need of a backup caregiver for Nicodemus Comfort Dog. The role of the Back-up Caregiver is the same as the Primary Caregiver, only a much shorter time commitment. The Back-up Caregiver cares for the needs of Nico, getting him ready to go out to service when Randy and Marcia have scheduled time off. The Nico fund would set up that person or family with all needed supplies and training as to Nico’s verbal and house commands. 

The Back-up Caregiver does NOT have to be a member of the Rock Church or even a Lutheran, but must be a follower of Jesus. Policy from the Lutheran Church Charities (LCC), the head of the Comfort Dog Ministry who set the rules and commands for all the Comfort Dogs across the U.S.A., has changed.  Another pet within the Back-up Caregiver home is allowed but still not preferred.  

What the Nico Team is asking is that you sit with our Lord in prayer, to ask for a name that might be a possibility for a Back-up Caregiver for our Ministry. Please get that name with contact information to one of Nico’s Team members or one of the Rock’s leadership members, or submit it to our church office. Thank you for your prayers and help.

Visit the YogaFaith Facebook page for a full calendar and more information.

Happening at The Rock

• Oct. 31, 2024, Trunk or Treat, 6-9pm
• June 19-26, 2025, Guatemala Mission Trip
• July 19-23, 2025, LCMS Youth Gathering

The Rock is hosting our second annual Trunk or Treat event on October 31 from 6pm-9pm. This event is open to the whole community. If you would like to help with the event, donate candy or money, contact Brevin Sloup at [email protected].

Vote “yes” on 434 and “no” on 439

The state constitution currently does not have actual protection for life. It has been the practice of the legislature to interpret it as such, but 434 will add pro-life language to the constitution. 434 establishes a 12-week ceiling on abortion, but not a floor. The upper limit leaves room for future legislation to protect life from the moment it starts. This means that 434 will “hold the line” with the current 12-week abortion ban and leave room for further action in the future.

439 represents a tremendous and radical shift in state policy on abortion and parental rights. There is concern that if 439 is enacted, it will be much harder to return any protections for life to the state constitution. The polls of the public opinion shared by the Nebraska Catholic Conference show how close this initiative is to passing: Protect Women & Children publicly released a poll back in the spring showing that the abortion measure (Initiative 439) had 54% support among the general public.

Every person should vote their conscience, but with both initiatives on the agenda, whichever receives the greater majority will be the one placed into the constitution. The danger of pro-life voters voting no on both would likely give the advantage to 439. For a more detailed treatment on this topic you may wish to read: https://www.lincolndiocese.org/op-ed/legislative-update/18196-vote-no-on-both-is-wrong-harmful

Seward Area Lutherans for Life invites you to an Evening Prayer Vigil for the Unborn.  It will be held Monday, November 4, at St. John, Seward, at 7 pm.

Pastors Rempfer and Dahlke will lead the service. Join us as we pray for the unborn and the life ballot measures on the ballot on Election Day.

We have three amazing opportunities to bless our community between now and Christmas.

Stuff The Turkey! Look for the turkey box on the second floor landing near the Stepping Stones classrooms. Grab a tag or two with Thanksgiving meal items listed on them and bring those things to stuff the turkey box before November 20.

Gift A Turkey! Between now and November 20, we are collecting money to buy turkeys for Blue Valley to distribute to local families in need. Turkeys will cost about $25 each and we hope to provide at least ten as a congregation. We will have a collection jar for your donations in the cafe area.

Fill The Pantry! In 2022, we collected more than 500 hygiene items in support of Blue Valley. Let’s give it a try one more time! Our usual November food pantry collection item is toothpaste, and we’ll add to that by also collecting feminine products, toothbrushes, shampoo, conditioner, soap, deodorant, toilet paper, paper towels, tissues, baby wipes, and diapers (especially larger sizes). You can drop those items in the blue wagon located in the cafe. Let’s try to get 500 hygiene items again between now and December 15!

As we approach a busy season that can be challenging, Faith Partners would like to focus on gratitude in November. After you make your name tag on Sundays, look for the leaves to write things that you are thankful for and place it on or around the tree trunk. “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18)

Help fill Concordia’s “Help Your Shelf!”

Concordia University is collecting 500+ individual containers of non-perishable foods or essential items from October 15 – November 15, to then receive $500 for the campus Help Your Shelf to help students who find themselves in need of food or personal items.  This Fall Food Shelf Challenge food drive will be supplemented with a Generosity Multiplier Gift, courtesy of the Thrivent Member Network – Nebraska Region.  

Concordia is also collecting new or gently used winter coats, hats, gloves for Help Your Shelf for students from warmer climates who may be in need as the weather gets colder.  

Look for the large Basket in the Rock Café to donate no later than Wednesday, November 13!

Please contact [email protected] if you have questions.

We hold up in prayer to the Lord all those who are suffering from the devastation of Hurricanes Helene and Milton. As we watch from afar in Nebraska, please consider supporting LCMS Disaster Response, which provides mercy care, disaster clean up, and support for those who are dealing with the aftermath of these hurricanes.

Here is a video showing the work that they are doing already in hurricane affected areas.

Here is where you can learn how to volunteer and where you can donate towards relief efforts in the southeastern US.

Do you have an announcement you’d like to have made in the Rock newsletter, on our social media pages, or on the screen on Sunday? Please use this new Announcement Submission Form.

Our November item to donate in support of Blue Valley Community Action is toothpaste. Thanks for being a blessing to the community in this way. You can see our Blue Valley Pantry item schedule on our website. Year-round they also collect the following: pasta, pasta meal mixes, instant potato side dishes, and mashed potatoes.

The Rock Facility Improvement Project

We are still looking for people to partner with us in our facility improvement project. We’ve divided the entire building into 48 distinct areas, each with its own To-Do list, To make it easier for everyone to contribute, we invite you to “adopt” a room or area, and over the next year, enlist your friends or family to focus on just that ONE space. Whether it’s a big task or a small one, many hands will make light work, and there is something everyone can do to help.

With God’s people working side by side, we can accomplish amazing things! If you can help, please contact [email protected]. We have posted the To-Do Lists in each of the spaces so you can walk around and look at the areas before choosing your space.

Happening at The Rock

• Oct. 17, 2024, Concordia Wellness Walk/Run
• Oct. 27, 2024, Guatemala Mission Trip deposit due
• Oct. 31, 2024, Trunk or Treat at The Rock, 6:00-9:00pm
• June 19-26, 2025, Guatemala Mission Trip
• July 19-23, 2025, LCMS Youth Gathering

Concordia is hosting a Wellness Walk/Run on Thursday, October 17 at 7:00 a.m. at the Plum Creek Sports Complex by the sand volleyball and soccer fields. The first 75 people get a free t-shirt. The Morning of Wellness is sponsored by Concordia Health & Counseling and Student Life Office.

Join the next Guatemala Mission Team!

Are you passionate about serving others and sharing God’s love? This is a unique opportunity to grow in faith, build relationships, and make a lasting impact in the lives of those we serve. Activities include: VBS, music and crafts, teen and women’s ministry. Consider joining the next trip scheduled for June 19-26, 2025. If you want to go, the first deposit of $400 is due October 27th. The team is limited to first 12 people who pay the deposit.

Contact Jen Janousek at [email protected] or Emma Dannehl at [email protected] for more information.

We hold up in prayer to the Lord all those who are suffering from the devastation of Hurricanes Helene and Milton. As we watch from afar in Nebraska, please consider supporting LCMS Disaster Response, which provides mercy care, disaster clean up, and support for those who are dealing with the aftermath of these hurricanes.

Here is a video showing the work that they are doing already in hurricane affected areas.

Here is where you can learn how to volunteer and where you can donate towards relief efforts in the southeastern US.

We will be hosting our second annual Trunk or Treat event at The Rock on October 31 from 6pm-9pm. This event is open to the whole community. If you would like to help with the event contact Brevin Sloup. Also, if you would like to donate candy or money to buy candy that would be greatly appreciated!

Seward Area Lutherans for Life invites you to an Evening Prayer Vigil for the Unborn.  It will be held Monday, November 4, at St. John, Seward, at 7 pm.

Pastors Rempfer and Dahlke will lead the service. Join us as we pray for the unborn and the life ballot measures on the ballot on Election Day.

Remember the Numbers: Nebraska Ballot Initiatives Concerning Abortion

The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod believes that abortion is contrary to God’s Word and “is not a moral option, except as a tragically unavoidable byproduct of medical procedures necessary to prevent the death of another human being, viz., the mother” (1979 Res. 3-02A).

Two initiatives concerning abortion will be on the Nebraska ballot this November. The pro-abortion ballot initiative 439, “Protect Our Rights,” would legalize abortion until birth, subject preborn children to painful late-term dismemberment abortions, put girls at greater risk for human trafficking, and eliminate parental notification requirements. The pro-life ballot initiative 434, “Protect Women & Children,” asserts that life is a human right, and women, children, and families in Nebraska deserve real love and support, not dangerous proposals that jeopardize the health and safety of women and end the lives of precious baby boys and girls.

Learn more here: www.voteagainst439.com

Do you have an announcement you’d like to have made in the Rock newsletter, on our social media pages, or on the screen on Sunday? Please use this new Announcement Submission Form.

Our October item to donate in support of Blue Valley Community Action is rice. Thanks for being a blessing to the community in this way. You can see our Blue Valley Pantry item schedule on our website. Year-round they also collect the following: pasta, pasta meal mixes, instant potato side dishes, and mashed potatoes.

The Rock Facility Improvement Project

We are still looking for people to partner with us in our facility improvement project. We’ve divided the entire building into 48 distinct areas, each with its own To-Do list, To make it easier for everyone to contribute, we invite you to “adopt” a room or area, and over the next year, enlist your friends or family to focus on just that ONE space. Whether it’s a big task or a small one, many hands will make light work, and there is something everyone can do to help.

With God’s people working side by side, we can accomplish amazing things! If you can help, please contact [email protected]. We have posted the To-Do Lists in each of the spaces so you can walk around and look at the areas before choosing your space.

We are still in need of a backup caregiver for Nicodemus Comfort Dog. The role of the Back-up Caregiver is the same as the Primary Caregiver, only a much shorter time commitment. The Back-up Caregiver cares for the needs of Nico, getting him ready to go out to service when Randy and Marcia have scheduled time off. The Nico fund would set up that person or family with all needed supplies and training as to Nico’s verbal and house commands. 

The Back-up Caregiver does NOT have to be a member of the Rock Church or even a Lutheran, but must be a follower of Jesus. Policy from the Lutheran Church Charities (LCC), the head of the Comfort Dog Ministry who set the rules and commands for all the Comfort Dogs across the U.S.A., has changed.  Another pet within the Back-up Caregiver home is allowed but still not preferred.  

What the Nico Team is asking is that you sit with our Lord in prayer, to ask for a name that might be a possibility for a Back-up Caregiver for our Ministry. Please get that name with contact information to one of Nico’s Team members or one of the Rock’s leadership members, or submit it to our church office. Thank you for your prayers and help.

Visit the YogaFaith Facebook page for a full calendar and more information.

Minutes from the Ambassadors’ and Directors’ meetings can be found HERE. 

Visit our website leadership page to see who is serving and how to contact them.

Contact Us | [email protected]
Prayer Requests | [email protected]

Giving | https://www.therockseward.org/giving-at-the-rock/

Prayer requests are received by our prayer warriors. If you would like them kept confidential and not included in public prayers on Sundays, just let us know in your email.

Happening at The Rock

• October 6, 2024, Pumpkin Sale for Guatemala Mission Trip
• October 11-12, 2024, Pure Freedom Retreat (high school girls)
• October 12, 2024,Bravehearts Retreat (high school boys)
• October 14, 2024, Monday night Women’s Bible Study begins
• October 15, 2024, Communion Class, 6 p.m.
• October 16, 2024, Wednesday night Women’s Bible Study begins
• June 19-26, 2025, Guatemala Mission Trip
• July 19-23, 2025, LCMS Youth Gathering

The Guatemala Mission team will be having a Pumpkin Fundraiser in the church parking lot after worship THIS Sunday, October 6! Bring some money and get a pumpkin in exchange for a freewill offering. All proceeds support The Rock’s Guatemala Mission Trip!

High School girls are invited to attend the upcoming Pure Freedom Retreat on October 11-12 at The Rock. The retreat kicks off with a movie Friday night, followed by a day of fellowship, food, faith, and fun on Saturday. Register at this link.

High School boys are invited to attend the upcoming Bravehearts Retreat on October 12 sponsored by St. John Lutheran Church. This event will include fun activities, speakers, food, and fellowship. High school boys who are interested can get more information here and can register at this link.

Join the next Guatemala Mission Team!

Are you passionate about serving others and sharing God’s love? This is a unique opportunity to grow in faith, build relationships, and make a lasting impact in the lives of those we serve. Activities include: VBS, music and crafts, teen and women’s ministry. Consider joining the next trip scheduled for June 19-26, 2025.

Contact Jen Janousek at [email protected] or Emma Dannehl at [email protected] for more information.

Remember the Numbers: Nebraska Ballot Initiatives Concerning Abortion

The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod believes that abortion is contrary to God’s Word and “is not a moral option, except as a tragically unavoidable byproduct of medical procedures necessary to prevent the death of another human being, viz., the mother” (1979 Res. 3-02A).

Two initiatives concerning abortion will be on the Nebraska ballot this November. The pro-abortion ballot initiative 439, “Protect Our Rights,” would legalize abortion until birth, subject preborn children to painful late-term dismemberment abortions, put girls at greater risk for human trafficking, and eliminate parental notification requirements. The pro-life ballot initiative 434, “Protect Women & Children,” asserts that life is a human right, and women, children, and families in Nebraska deserve real love and support, not dangerous proposals that jeopardize the health and safety of women and end the lives of precious baby boys and girls.

Learn more here: www.voteagainst439.com

A Public Meeting for Ballot Measure 434 will be held on Tuesday, October 8 at 7:00pm at Olde Glory Theatre, 348 Jackson Ave., in Seward. Senator Jana Hughes and Nikki Shassere from Nebraska Right to Life will be speaking.

A presentation by Virginia Flo, Director of Volunteer Relations for Lutherans for Life will take place on Sunday, October 13 at 2:00 pm at the Seward Public Library. Flo will speak on politics and abortion, on aggressive policies that challenge the value of life, and our focus on not only changing laws but changing hearts through God’s Word. Refreshments will be served.

You are also invited to join the LIFE CHAIN on Sunday, October 6 from 2-3pm around the Seward County Courthouse. Life Chain is a nation-wide annual event presenting a peaceful and silent witness to the sanctity of human life and the harm of abortion.

Do you have an announcement you’d like to have made in the Rock newsletter, on our social media pages, or on the screen on Sunday? Please use this new Announcement Submission Form.

Our October item to donate in support of Blue Valley Community Action is rice. Thanks for being a blessing to the community in this way. You can see our Blue Valley Pantry item schedule on our website. Year-round they also collect the following: pasta, pasta meal mixes, instant potato side dishes, and mashed potatoes.

The Rock Facility Improvement Project

We are still looking for people to partner with us in our facility improvement project. We’ve divided the entire building into 48 distinct areas, each with its own To-Do list, To make it easier for everyone to contribute, we invite you to “adopt” a room or area, and over the next year, enlist your friends or family to focus on just that ONE space. Whether it’s a big task or a small one, many hands will make light work, and there is something everyone can do to help.

With God’s people working side by side, we can accomplish amazing things! If you can help, please contact [email protected]. We have posted the To-Do Lists in each of the spaces so you can walk around and look at the areas before choosing your space.

We are still in need of a backup caregiver for Nicodemus Comfort Dog. The role of the Back-up Caregiver is the same as the Primary Caregiver, only a much shorter time commitment. The Back-up Caregiver cares for the needs of Nico, getting him ready to go out to service when Randy and Marcia have scheduled time off. The Nico fund would set up that person or family with all needed supplies and training as to Nico’s verbal and house commands. 

The Back-up Caregiver does NOT have to be a member of the Rock Church or even a Lutheran, but must be a follower of Jesus. Policy from the Lutheran Church Charities (LCC), the head of the Comfort Dog Ministry who set the rules and commands for all the Comfort Dogs across the U.S.A., has changed.  Another pet within the Back-up Caregiver home is allowed but still not preferred.  

What the Nico Team is asking is that you sit with our Lord in prayer, to ask for a name that might be a possibility for a Back-up Caregiver for our Ministry. Please get that name with contact information to one of Nico’s Team members or one of the Rock’s leadership members, or submit it to our church office. Thank you for your prayers and help.

Visit the YogaFaith Facebook page for a full calendar and more information.

Minutes from the Ambassadors’ and Directors’ meetings can be found HERE. 

August minutes from our Directors are available HERE.

September minutes from our Directors are available HERE.

Visit our website leadership page to see who is serving and how to contact them.

Contact Us | [email protected]
Prayer Requests | [email protected]

Giving | https://www.therockseward.org/giving-at-the-rock/

Prayer requests are received by our prayer warriors. If you would like them kept confidential and not included in public prayers on Sundays, just let us know in your email.

Happening at the Rock

• October 11-12, 2024, Pure Freedom Retreat (high school girls)
• October 12, 2024,Bravehearts Retreat (high school boys)
• October 14, 2024, Monday night Women’s Bible Study begins
• October 15, 2024, Communion Class, 6 p.m.
• October 16, 2024, Wednesday night Women’s Bible Study begins
• June 19-26, 2025, Guatemala Mission Trip
• July 19-23, 2025, LCMS Youth Gathering

High School girls are invited to attend the upcoming Pure Freedom Retreat on October 11-12 at The Rock. The retreat kicks off with a movie Friday night, followed by a day of fellowship, food, faith, and fun on Saturday. Register at this link.

High School boys are invited to attend the upcoming Bravehearts Retreat on October 12 sponsored by St. John Lutheran Church. This event will include fun activities, speakers, food, and fellowship. High school boys who are interested can get more information here and can register at this link.

Join the next Guatemala Mission Team!

Are you passionate about serving others and sharing God’s love? This is a unique opportunity to grow in faith, build relationships, and make a lasting impact in the lives of those we serve. Activities include: VBS, music and crafts, teen and women’s ministry. Consider joining the next trip scheduled for June 19-26, 2025.

Contact Jen Janousek at [email protected] or Emma Dannehl at [email protected] for more information.

A new Women’s Bible Study is starting! Click here for a video preview of “The Gospel on the Ground: The Grit and Glory of the Early Church in Acts” by Kristi McLelland.

This 7 week evening study, beginning in October, is for all women high school age and up. Come gather to build relationships with each other and more importantly with Jesus. For more information see Sara and Andrea out in the Café before and after worship or email [email protected].

Do you have an announcement you’d like to have made in the Rock newsletter, on our social media pages, or on the screen on Sunday? Please use this new Announcement Submission Form.

Our September item to donate in support of Blue Valley Community Action is boxed meals and we will be collecting rice in October. Thanks for being a blessing to the community in this way. You can see our Blue Valley Pantry item schedule on our website. Year-round they also collect the following: pasta, pasta meal mixes, instant potato side dishes, and mashed potatoes.

We are still looking for people to partner with us in our facility improvement project. We’ve divided the entire building into 48 distinct areas, each with its own To-Do list, To make it easier for everyone to contribute, we invite you to “adopt” a room or area, and over the next year, enlist your friends or family to focus on just that ONE space. Whether it’s a big task or a small one, many hands will make light work, and there is something everyone can do to help.

With God’s people working side by side, we can accomplish amazing things! If you can help, please contact [email protected]. We have posted the To-Do Lists in each of the spaces so you can walk around and look at the areas before choosing your space.

We are still in need of a backup caregiver for Nicodemus Comfort Dog. The role of the Back-up Caregiver is the same as the Primary Caregiver, only a much shorter time commitment. The Back-up Caregiver cares for the needs of Nico, getting him ready to go out to service when Randy and Marcia have scheduled time off. The Nico fund would set up that person or family with all needed supplies and training as to Nico’s verbal and house commands. 

The Back-up Caregiver does NOT have to be a member of the Rock Church or even a Lutheran, but must be a follower of Jesus. Policy from the Lutheran Church Charities (LCC), the head of the Comfort Dog Ministry who set the rules and commands for all the Comfort Dogs across the U.S.A., has changed.  Another pet within the Back-up Caregiver home is allowed but still not preferred.  

What the Nico Team is asking is that you sit with our Lord in prayer, to ask for a name that might be a possibility for a Back-up Caregiver for our Ministry. Please get that name with contact information to one of Nico’s Team members or one of the Rock’s leadership members, or submit it to our church office. Thank you for your prayers and help.

Visit the YogaFaith Facebook page for a full calendar and more information.

Minutes from the Ambassadors’ and Directors’ meetings can be found HERE. 

Visit our website leadership page to see who is serving and how to contact them.

Contact Us | [email protected]
Prayer Requests | [email protected]

Giving | https://www.therockseward.org/giving-at-the-rock/

Prayer requests are received by our prayer warriors. If you would like them kept confidential and not included in public prayers on Sundays, just let us know in your email.

All women high school age and up are invited to join a 7 week evening study, beginning in October based on “The Gospel on the Ground: The Grit and Glory of the Early Church in Acts” by Kristi McLelland. (Learn more about this book here.) Come gather to build relationships with each other, and more importantly, with Jesus.

There will be two different groups—one meeting on Mondays, and the other on Wednesdays. To help our groups bond, you will need to choose your night and stick with it. When you sign up, please indicate whether you will attend on Mondays or Wednesdays.

OPTION #1

• Monday nights on October 14, 21, 28, November 4, 11, 18, and December 2. Meeting from 7:00pm to 8:30pm
• Where: The Rock, Room 217 (north side)

OPTION #2

• Wednesday nights on October 16, 23, 30, November 5, 13, 20, and December 4. Meeting from 6:30pm to 8:00pm
• Where: The Rock, Room 211  (south side)

We will be making a bulk book order from Christianbook.com. The estimated cost is $21.24-24.99 (the price is listed as $24.99 but we will be purchasing them at reduced bulk book cost, which might bring the cost as low as $21.24).  Please contact Sara or Andrea if the cost is not within your budget because we do have a few scholarships for those that can’t afford the book. 

To sign up: Please email Sara at [email protected] or sign up at church by October 6.  Take advantage of the book discount by ordering with the group! If you do decide to join us after Oct. 6, you will need to purchase your own book.